Danville, California – a haven of tranquility and family warmth – recently played witness to one of life’s most beautiful beginnings. In the comfort of their sunlit home, the Corry family invited me to document a very special milestone: their newborn photo session. But this was no ordinary session; it was one imbued with personal touches and family ties, complete with the loving presence of their furry friend, Moose.

The centerpiece of the nursery, where most of our session unfolded, was nothing less than a stunning depiction of a tree, hand-painted by Carly’s talented sister, Lucy. The sprawling branches stretched across the main wall, a testament to the roots and connections of family that now embraced their littlest member. The soft hues of the mural brought an element of peaceful nature indoors, setting a serene backdrop for the photographs.

From the outset, Moose, their loyal dog, made it clear that he, too, was part of the celebration. With gentle sniffs and a wagging tail, he watched over the newcomer in his family, often seen nestling close by or playfully poking his nose towards the baby, adding a touch of whimsy to the images.

It wasn’t long into the session that we captured what I think might just be the epitome of innocence and familial love. Swaddled in a delicate knit blanket, the Corry’s baby lay sleeping, blissfully unaware of the camera, a soft smile hinting at dreams of warmth and comfort. As parents, Carly and her spouse leaned in, their expressions spoke volumes, reflecting the wonder and boundless love that accompanies the arrival of a new child.

The joy became even more palpable when Carly’s sister joined the session. Lucy’s pride in her artistic contribution to the nursery was evident, her smile almost as broad as the mural’s expansive branches. In one particularly heartwarming moment, she cradled her niece, her gaze intermingling pride and affection—a moment now eternally framed through our lenses.

Throughout the session, we juxtaposed moments of pure, unadulterated joy with the quiet, more reflective instances that having a newborn brings. The caring hands of parents adjusting tiny socks, the furrowed brow of a baby moments before a yawn, and the tender reassurance offered by a dog’s nuzzle.

Our time with the Corry family in Danville was a reminder that within each new beginning lies a story waiting to be told. The seamless blend of nature, nurture, and the love of a family (and pup) created more than just a newborn photography session—it wove a narrative of togetherness that will surely grow along with the precious new life cradled within that nutria tree mural.

As I packed up my gear and said my goodbyes, I knew that these images would transcend the ordinary—they would stand as timeless celebrations of life, love, and the simple beauty of a family at home. And as Moose saw us out, I couldn’t help thinking that perhaps every family photo session could do with a bit more dog.

To the Corry family, thank you for allowing me to capture these fleeting moments. To those reading and dreaming of their own family sessions—may you find inspiration in the Corry’s embrace of art, family, and the enduring presence of Moose.

Are you interested in your own Danville newborn portraits? Let’s connect!