Annual Family Photos in Aurora – Phillips Park with the Woodcox family

annual family photo session

One of my favorite parts of being a family photographer in Aurora, IL is getting to see families year after year. Watching kids grow, personalities shine, and traditions form is such a joy. This fall, I had the pleasure of photographing Dorothy, Abe, Dorian, and Theodore for their annual family photo session—this time at the beautiful Phillips Park in Aurora.

family photographer in Aurora, IL
Abe, Dorian, and Theodore
Dorian - portrait
Theodore - portrait

A Tradition of Annual Family Sessions
Last year, we captured their story at Pottawatomie Park in St. Charles, and this year we chose Aurora’s beloved Phillips Park as our backdrop. I love how this family makes it a tradition to set aside time every year for updated portraits. Not only does it give them memories to treasure, but it also creates a visual story they’ll look back on for years to come.

Theo and Dorian candid shot in Philips Park in Aurora IL
The Woodcox family playing paper. scissor, rock
the two brothers raining each other around the Sunken Garden at Philips park in Aurora

Why Phillips Park is Perfect for Family Photography
Phillips Park is a hidden gem for family photography sessions in Aurora. With its open fields, gorgeous trees, walking paths, and lake, it offers endless spots for both playful and classic portraits. The kids had space to explore, which gave us plenty of candid moments, while the soft evening light made for dreamy family portraits.

the fun faces
the Woodcox family taking a break from photos
Theodore studying the birds at the Philips park
black and white family portrait

Photographing Dorothy, Abe, Dorian & Theodore
Dorothy and Abe are such warm, grounded parents, and their boys, Dorian and Theodore, are an absolute delight. The kids are not only smart but also so cooperative during the session—which makes photographing them a joy. Their bond as brothers really shines through in the photos, from playful giggles to sweet, natural moments together.

the family on the bridge at Philips Park in Aurora
kids running on the bridge at Philips Park
Dorothy and Abe posing on the Philips Bridge in Aurora

Aurora Family Photographer Tip: Make it Fun for the Kids
One of my biggest tips for family photos is to let the kids lead sometimes. Instead of forcing stiff smiles, we play little games, take breaks, and let personalities shine. That’s exactly what we did at this session, and the result was genuine laughter and authentic expressions.

Wrapping Up
Every family session is unique, but what stays the same is the love, connection, and joy that I get to capture. I’m so thankful to have families like Dorothy and Abe’s who trust me year after year. Their photos at Phillips Park this season are some of my favorites yet!
If you’re looking for an Aurora family photographer to capture your family at Phillips Park or one of the many other beautiful parks in the Fox Valley area, I’d love to connect. Annual family photos are a wonderful way to preserve your family’s story.
Ready to schedule your Aurora family photo session? Get in touch CONTACT and let’s create memories you’ll cherish forever.

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