Turning 10, blue art trees and exploring Shoal Creek
To celebrate and document her son turning 10, this mom scheduled a birthday photo session.
We went to Pease Park over Thanksgiving Break for his portrait session. This birthday boy had fun exploring the park from the trees to the flowers to the water in the Creek.
Tips for Photo Sessions in Pease Park
- I divide Pease Park into two main photographic areas – the Live Oak Meadow and Kingsbury Commons.
- The Live Oak Meadow has, you guessed it, lots of oak trees, some with beautiful hanging Spanish Moss, as well as easy access to play in Shoal Creek – a spot known as the swales.
- Kingsbury Commons has the two-story metal and rope Treehouse as well as a nature play area and the Tudor Cottage.
- Between those two spots is a small forest of trees painted blue.
- I find parking to be easier by the Live Oak Meadow – and I tell my clients it’s about a 7-10 minute walk between the two spots, but we should start in whichever spot they’re more drawn to.
- I also make sure to check the Pease Park events page before finalizing a session date.
- And if we’re going to go in the Creek, I always save that for last in case anyone gets too wet exploring.
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Please check out some of my favorite images below and contact me if you’d like to book your own photo session.
1. What prompted you to have this photo session? Finn turned ten years old and I wanted to document the milestone. Plus, we hadn’t taken any portraits since covid. If people walked into my house, they would think I have a six year old. Time for some updated photos!
2. How did you choose your location for your session? As a person who’s lived in Austin for 25 years, I have always loved Pease Park. It’s now one of Finn’s favorite parks as well. Lots to see and explore, plus summer camps and birthday parties are often held here.
3. What advice would you give to others planning a similar photo session? Relax and have fun. If kiddos are involved – I do lots of talking about the day, what we’re doing, where we’re going, how long it will last – just to set all the expectations in advance.
Also, if you want to plan a haircut, do it 2 to 3 weeks before the session so that it can grow in a bit and look natural. And, no matter when it is – feed them. Just feed them 30 min before. Also a post-session treat doesn’t hurt.
4. Anything else you’d like to add about working with Stephanie Friedman Photography? I love Stephanie’s positive attitude and easy-going vibe. She makes something that can be stressful, super easy to navigate.
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