The Simon Family | Summer Photo and Film Session, Manhattan, KS

I’m not even exaggerating a little when I say that Summer is my favorite season. The smells of sunscreen, chlorine-soaked hair, burgers charing away on the grill and even the smoke from an occasional fire pit night all remind me of hot, sticky days followed by slightly less hot, sticky nights in Summer. 

Summer is synonymous with laid back routines, gatherings with friends, trips with family, fun and lots of laughter. So when the Simon family expressed interest in a Backyard Summer Photo+Film Session, I said “Let’s do this!”

Kayla said one of the most important things to her is creating solid memories with both Josh and her girls, laughing together and loving on each other. She cherishes the snuggle time while her girls are little and said she and Josh both look to supporting their kids as they grow. 

On my client questionnaires sent prior to my sessions, I always ask parents about their favorite physical characteristics of their kids. As a mom myself, there are certain things about my daughter that I just love, physical characteristics of her that are a part of her personality. Right now her silly smiles with her currently-missing front teeth will forever be a part of this moment in our lives. To have those pieces to hold onto for forever, in photographs or a film, are absolutely priceless. Not to mention, your kids will adore looking at themselves for years to come (I know mine does)

We spent this July evening in Josh and Kayla’s back yard, blowing bubbles, playing in a splash pad, wandering around the yard and then enjoying a little fire and smores in the firepit that Josh built. It was such a simple, laid back evening, but to me, that’s what summers are all about. That slow down, a great excuse to just enjoy your favorite people at your favorite places, even if it's at home in your own backyard.

I hope you enjoy this little snippet of images from their session. Be sure to scroll to the bottom to watch their summer film!

This family’s film captured so many memories! It was Backyard Summer fun at it's best! The Simon Family had a wonderful time together, playing with bubbles, a splash pad and, of course, roasting marshmallows for s'mores. What great memories to relive for years to come! Modern Family Film created by best filmmaker in Manhattan, KS, Renee McDaniel.

Tell me, what’s your favorite season? Is it summer, like me? Or are you a snow-loving winter person? Comment below, and tell me! I’m all ears (even if it is “Winter”)!

Till next time…