Wild, Playful, and Perfect: A Florida Forest Family Session
Two kids sprinting through tall grass, arms wide open, laughing so hard they could barely breathe. That’s the first frame that comes to mind from this Florida forest family session at Split Oak Forest near Orlando. No posing. No coaxing. Just pure, full-speed joy, and we were right there running alongside them.
The Kind of Location That Does the Work for You
Most people think Florida family photography means the beach. We get it. But Split Oak Forest is a completely different world. Ancient oaks draped in moss, sandy trails cutting through scrub, and light that pools through the canopy in these soft, golden patches. We shot wide to let the landscape breathe, and honestly, the environment did half the heavy lifting. Every few steps gave us a new backdrop without moving a single thing.
These two siblings were something else. The kind of energy where you stop directing and start chasing. One minute they’re crouching in the grass whispering about bugs, and the next they’re nose-to-nose giggling on the trail. We pulled in tight for those moments because that connection is the whole point. Their parents hung back and just let it happen, which is exactly how the best family sessions unfold.
If you’re in the Orlando area and want family photos that feel nothing like a studio, Split Oak is worth the drive. The textures alone (bark, ferns, sand, moss) give every frame a richness you just can’t manufacture. We love when families pick locations with real character, and this one delivered. These are the kind of photos that end up on the wall because they actually look like your people.
Is Split Oak Forest a good location for family photos near Orlando?
It’s one of our favorites in the area. The moss-draped oaks and sandy trails create a backdrop that feels wild and natural, completely different from a typical beach or park session. Late afternoon light filters through the canopy beautifully, so we recommend timing your session about an hour before sunset.
How do I book a family portrait session with Twig & Olive?
Start by reaching out through our contact page. Tell us where you are, what you’re envisioning, and we’ll work out the details from there. We travel for family sessions outside of Wisconsin and love exploring new locations.
