Golden hour provides that coveted soft, low backlight from the setting sun—the kind of luminous quality seen in lifestyle magazines and professional publications. But beautiful light alone doesn't create meaningful portraits. This image works because it captures something genuine: the special smile this little one reserves just for her mom.
Great children's expressions come from patience, connection, fun, and family working together. Since kids often haven't met me before our session, building trust is essential. We play simple games, they share their favorite things, and gradually we create comfort. But the best smiles? Those often come from parents.
I frequently ask parents to position themselves directly behind me—close enough that their child sees them, but aligned so we're all working together rather than creating chaos. Too many voices calling for attention overwhelms children. Sometimes what a child needs most is focused calm and the reassuring presence of someone they love.
This portrait captures that distinct expression children have for their parents—genuine, trusting, full of warmth. It's not a camera smile; it's a connection smile. That authenticity, combined with golden hour's editorial-quality light, creates images that resonate both as professional photography and as treasured family memories.
Location: Sturgeon Point, Fenelon Falls.
Keywords: casual (21), cottage (17), Kawartha Lakes, kids (42), playful (25).