Some sessions just hit a little closer to home — and this one was one of those for me. The Dean family session at Line Creek in Missouri was extra special because Jared and Lauren aren’t just clients; they’re dear friends. Jared is actually my husband’s best friend, and he and Lauren got married just one week before we did. So getting to document their family all these years later felt full-circle and incredibly meaningful.

A Summer Evening at the Creek

We met at Line Creek on a warm summer evening — the kind where the light filters through the trees just right and the air hums with that unmistakable “end of summer” feeling. The Deans wanted something relaxed and outdoorsy, a place where the kids could run around and just be kids. And Line Creek was perfect for that — quiet, beautiful, and full of little nooks to explore.

Addy and Grayson wasted no time getting their feet wet (literally). We spent the evening skipping rocks, splashing in the water, and playing in the sand. Addy was a little hesitant at first, but with the promise of chocolate, she quickly came around — and her giggles became some of my favorite moments from the whole evening.

Why I Love Sessions Like This

There’s something so pure about photographing families in nature — no pressure, no posing, just connection. Watching Jared and Lauren interact with their kids, you could feel how much love and patience fills their family. Every glance and laugh felt like a reflection of the life they’ve built together — one rooted in joy, faith, and togetherness.

It’s easy to forget that photos like these aren’t just about how they look. They’re about preserving a moment in your family’s story — a reminder of what these years feel like. And getting to capture that for people I love made it even sweeter.

A Note to the Deans

Jared and Lauren — thank you for trusting me to capture your beautiful family. You two have always been such a steady, joy-filled presence in our lives, and it means so much that I got to document this chapter for you. Addy and Grayson are growing so fast, and I hope these photos remind you of this simple, beautiful summer day spent together in the creek.

If you’re looking for a fun-filled family session like this one, I’d love to serve you! Inquire at abbyreephotography.com !