Joy Looks Good on You: A Fall Family Pet Session

Golden hour in a wildflower field, a toddler who wanted to run everywhere, and an Australian Shepherd who stole every single frame. This fall family pet session at McCarthy Youth & Conservation County Park had all the ingredients we look for, and then some.

Dad carrying his son on his shoulders while mom leans in smiling during a fall family pet session

Let Them Be Loud, Let Them Be Real

We tell every family the same thing before we start: just be yourselves. Chase each other. Be silly. Let the dog do whatever the dog is going to do. Posed and stiff has never been our thing, and honestly, the best frames always come from the moments between poses.

Collage of a family laughing and cuddling with their toddler and dog in a golden meadow

McCarthy Park gave us a perfect canvas for that energy. The tall grass caught the last light of the day, and we had room to let this little guy run without limits. We shot wide to take in the meadow, then pulled in tight for the quiet moments when mom and dad leaned into each other with their pup between them.

Mom and dad leaning over their happy Australian Shepherd in tall grass at McCarthy Park

Including the family dog is something we always encourage. Pets change the dynamic in the best way. They break the tension, make everyone laugh, and create images that feel like real life instead of a portrait studio. This Aussie was all personality, and it showed in every frame.

Family of three with their Australian Shepherd smiling together in a field by Twig & Olive Photography

After two decades of family photography, every session still reminds us why we love this work. No two families bring the same energy, and that’s what keeps us showing up excited. If you’re thinking about fall family photos in the Cottage Grove area, this park deserves a serious look. The light, the landscape, the space to just breathe and play. It checks every box.

Collage of a blonde toddler looking up at camera and mom laughing as her son runs through a meadow

Frequently Asked Questions about Family Sessions at McCarthy Park

Can we bring our dog to a family photo session at McCarthy Park?

We love including pets. McCarthy Park has wide open meadows and soft natural light, which makes it an ideal spot for families with dogs. Just bring a leash for downtime between setups, and we’ll handle the rest.

When is the best time of year for outdoor family photos in Cottage Grove?

Early fall is hard to beat. The golden grass, warm light, and comfortable temperatures make September and October our favorite months for sessions at parks like McCarthy. We typically schedule about an hour before sunset to catch the best light.