Twig & Olive
UW ARBORETUM • MADISON, WI

Moments Like These: Sunset Mommy Me Session

Golden hour hit and this little one decided the wildflowers were more interesting than the camera. Honestly, we loved that. This sunset mommy me session at UW Arboretum was one of those evenings where every frame felt effortless, and the connection between mom and daughter did all the heavy lifting.

Mother and toddler in white walk hand in hand along a path during golden hour

Let Them Be Little

We have a thing for the Arboretum. The paths, the tall grasses, the way the light filters through the tree line right before it drops. It gives us options, which is exactly what you want when a toddler is setting the pace. And this toddler? She set a great pace. She picked flowers, twirled in her tulle dress, and laughed every time mom scooped her up. We just followed.

Smiling toddler in white dress and flower crown holds wildflowers toward the camera

That’s the thing about family sessions with young kids. The best frames come when nobody is trying to perform. A kid reaching for a parent’s hand, a giggle that catches everyone off guard, the quiet moment between all the running around. Those are the photos that end up on the wall.

Mother and toddler walk hand in hand at golden hour with sunset family portraits at UW Arboretum
Toddler in white tulle dress and flower crown explores tall golden grasses in an open field

We shot wide through the tall grasses to let the landscape do its thing, then pulled in tight for the close moments between mom and her girl. The warm light wrapped around everything, and that golden glow on a white dress in a field of dry grass is a combination we never get tired of.

Mother holds laughing toddler in flower crown among tall grasses in warm golden light
Mother and toddler under a vine-covered pergola with red berries at UW Arboretum by Twig & Olive Photography

If you’re considering the UW Arboretum for your own sunset mommy me session, do it. The variety of backdrops within a short walk is hard to beat, and that last hour of daylight here is something special. Show up, let the kids run, and we’ll handle the rest.

Mother and daughter in matching white dresses walk and play on green lawn at golden hour
Mom and dad laugh with toddler daughter in flower crown during family photos by Twig & Olive
Frequently Asked Questions about Family Sessions at UW Arboretum

When is the best time for family photos at UW Arboretum?

We recommend booking about an hour before sunset. The light at the Arboretum gets soft and golden as the sun drops behind the tree line, and that window gives us the warmest, most flattering frames. Spring and early fall are especially good for color in the landscape.

How do I book a family session with Twig & Olive?

Just reach out through our contact page and tell us a little about your family and what you’re looking for. We’ll help you pick the right location and timing from there.

Your Story, Our Craft

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