Sunset Strolls and Sweet Smiles: The McDowell Family at The Patch!
There’s something so magical about late summer evenings—the golden light, the lush green fields, and that quiet, peaceful feeling as the season starts to shift. I recently had the joy of photographing the McDowell family at The Patch in Walkertown, NC, and it was truly one of those sessions that reminded me why I love what I do.
The Patch is a stunning wildlife conservation farm and venue, filled with acres of rolling landscape and even a little pond tucked away in the back. It’s one of those spots where nature seems to wrap around you, creating the perfect backdrop for a relaxed family session.
The McDowells were an absolute dream to work with. This sweet couple and their beautiful little girl—who has just started walking!—made my job so easy. They were naturals in front of the camera, comfortable and confident, which allowed me to simply give a few gentle prompts and then step back to capture their natural interactions.
Watching their daughter toddle through the grass, holding her parents’ hands and flashing those curious little smiles, was heartwarming. Some of my favorite images came from these unscripted moments—the way mom looked down at her daughter with pure joy, or the way dad laughed as he spun his baby girl through the air..
Sessions like this are why I believe so strongly in creating space for families to be themselves. When clients are relaxed and simply enjoying time together, the photos become more than just pictures—they become a reflection of their love and their story.
I walked away from this session with such a full heart. The McDowells were pros in front of the lens, but more importantly, they were authentic, loving, and present. That’s what makes for truly beautiful images.
If you’re looking for a location that offers both natural beauty and a sense of peace, The Patch in Walkertown is one of my favorites. And if you’re ready to capture your own family’s story in this kind of setting, I’d love to help you do just that.