Running Wild: A Summer Milestone Session
She showed up barefoot, grinning, and completely in charge of the evening. This summer milestone session at Cherokee Marsh was all about letting a little girl with big blue eyes lead the way, and we were more than happy to follow.
Golden Hour and Zero Agenda
Cherokee Marsh gives us one of our favorite things: wide open light with no obstructions. The sun drops low over the prairie grasses, and everything turns warm and soft. We timed this session right in that window, and the payoff was worth every minute of planning.
Our approach with milestone sessions is simple. Let the kid set the pace. If she wants to run, we run. If she wants to sit in a crate full of wildflowers, we get low and shoot into the light. The best frames from this evening came when nobody was trying to pose.
There’s a portrait from this set, just her looking up with those enormous eyes, that stopped us mid-cull. That is the kind of image you don’t plan for. You just stay ready.
Mom and Dad were completely relaxed, which made everything easier. When parents aren’t worried about getting the “perfect” shot, the real moments show up on their own. A forehead kiss on a dirt path, a shared laugh while their girl sprints ahead. We pulled in close for those and let the golden light do the rest.
If you’re considering Cherokee Marsh for family photos in Madison, it’s one of those spots that rewards you for showing up at the right time. The trails are quiet, the backgrounds are layered with texture, and the light is consistently gorgeous from late spring through early fall.
Sessions like this one remind us why we keep coming back to this work. Twenty years in, and a kid with a wildflower still gets us every time.
When is the best time of year for family photos at Cherokee Marsh?
Late spring through early fall offers the best light and the most variety in the landscape. We love booking sessions here during golden hour, when the sun sits low over the prairie grasses and gives everything a warm, even glow.
How do I book a family session with Twig & Olive?
Head over to our contact page and tell us a little about your family and the kind of session you’re envisioning. We’ll help you pick the right location and time of day to get the best results.
