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Olbrich Gardens

family of five walks through Olbrich GardensThree young girls in dresses explore a nature path that is sunlit up ahead.

On a bright, sunny summer afternoon, this beautiful family of five set off on an adventure to explore Olbrich Gardens. I had the privilege of capturing their journey in a documentary-style photo session. With three young girls in tow, there was no shortage of energy, laughter, and genuine moments of connection.

The session began as the family entered the lush, vibrant grounds of Olbrich Gardens. As the girls skipped along the winding paths, their curiosity was undeniable. The oldest, always leading the way, pointed out the towering flowers and colorful butterflies fluttering by. Meanwhile, the younger two, not far behind, wandered off to investigate the smaller wonders—tiny rocks, leaves, and even a bug or two that caught their attention. There was no rush. No agenda. Just a family enjoying each other’s company, exploring nature at their own pace.

The beauty of documentary photography is in its authenticity. I don’t direct anything; the moments unfolded naturally. As they wandered through the garden, I could capture the quiet moment. There were no forced smiles, no stiff poses. Just honest and heartfelt moments that told the true story of this family’s day.

The girls explored the different plants, marveled at the colors, and enjoyed the rose garden fountains.

Olbrich Gardens was the perfect backdrop for these authentic moments. The serene landscape, carefully designed gardens and vibrant plant life, provided a peaceful contrast to the liveliness of this family’s exploration. It was clear that this wasn’t just a trip to a garden; it was a chance to slow down, connect, and create lasting memories together.

The day’s beauty wasn’t just in the flowers or the landscape—it was in how the family connected, laughed and enjoyed being together.

For me, documentary-style photography is about capturing life as it truly is—no filters, no perfection—just moments that are honest, beautiful, and real. This session at Olbrich Gardens was a perfect example of how family adventures, no matter how small or simple, can create lasting memories you’ll cherish for years.

 

A mother reaches her hand out to young girl crossing a creek with stepping stones. Child smiling. Father watching and smiling from other side of the creek. Girl smells huge red hibiscus flower at Olbrich GardensGirls spins her dress in a pouffy circle on top of a circular brick pathDad holds daughter's hand as they walk toward sunshine coming through trees at Olbrich GardensYoung girl sits on the edge of a reflecting pond with warm sunflare coming in on top of image. Olbrich GardensPortrait of three sisters at Olbrich Gardensyoung girl explores a fountain at Olbrich Gardens at the sun is setting and coming over the top of a brick wallMom holds two daughter's hands and Dad and third daughter follow on the pathMom holds young daughter in serene moment as sun sets at Olbrich Gardensgirl plays in fountain at Olbrich Gardens

Girl in yellow dress plays in water fountain at Olbrich Gardensxo,

Jen

 

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