There is something special about the energy of a family all getting together right before the holiday madness peaks. This year, I wrapped up my "Home for the Holidays" portrait series on Christmas Eve morning with an awesome extended family at MLK Park in Carrboro.
We honestly couldn't have asked for better weather. The air was crisp, the light was hitting just right, and everyone showed up ready to play.
Big Lights, Fast Portraits
When you’re dealing with three siblings, their partners, a pack of grandkids, and a very happy Golden Retriever, you have to move fast. I set up my big lighting rig right in the park to give everything that polished, professional look while still keeping that natural, outdoor NC vibe.
We knocked out the big "everyone in" group shot first (the one for the mantel!), and then broke off into individual family groups.
45 Minutes of Fun
The best part of these sessions is that they don't have to take all day. We managed to get the "nice" photos done quickly so we could spend the last few minutes letting the kids be themselves. There was some heavy lifting, a lot of laughter, and maybe a little bit of chaos—which, let’s be real, is what family holidays are actually about.
Whether you're in Carrboro, Chapel Hill, or Durham, these quick-hitting park sessions are the perfect way to document the family without it feeling like a chore.
Huge thanks to this crew for being such good sports on a holiday morning!
