Nikki’s Extended Family Session at McKay Lake

A photo of four generations of family laughing together during their summer reunion extended family photoshoot in an outdoor park surrounded by large trees

Nikki, I hope you and James enjoyed the rest of your time with your family—and that the fun and laughter from your photoshoot are still fresh in your memory!

One of my favorite aspects of being a family photographer is witnessing and capturing the unique bonds between different family members.

From you and James to his parents, Doug and Debbie, his siblings, Chelsi and Chadd, his grandparents, Art and Karen, Chelsi’s husband, Jim, and her daughter, Avery, and Chadd’s daughter, Isabelle—your family was a joy to work with.

Your thoughtfulness in arranging a photo session while James’ family was visiting from out of state provided the perfect opportunity for beautiful, natural shots at McKay Lake. This backdrop reflected the joyful mood of the occasion, and your family’s lively spirit—spanning four generations—made the session truly delightful.

When we first started planning your session, you promised your family would “break the ice for me.” Well, you weren’t kidding! The contagious energy and genuine love within your family made me feel right at home.

Whether we were taking a big group photo or capturing smaller family moments, the love you all have for each other was palpable. And let’s not forget those pesky mosquitoes! Their intrusion led to extra laughter and lighthearted teasing, despite the need for copious amounts of bug spray.

Those mosquitoes didn’t stand a chance, thanks to this bug spray I keep stashed in my session bag. I take it to every outdoor shoot—mosquitoes are pesky little suckers!

Capturing your family’s love and joy was a fantastic experience. I hope the moments we caught on camera will serve as cherished reminders of this summer for many years to come.

Here are just a few of my favorite photos from your extended family session. Enjoy!

Best, Theresa

P.S. Best of luck to you and James as you make plans for your summer wedding next year!

Grandparents seated on a log, surrounded by their adult children, framed by tall green trees
Parents standing with their three grown children, all smiling warmly at the camera.
Family trio—parents with their daughter—posing together on a wooded trail at McKay Lake.
A photo of three generations of family smiling at the camera during an extended family photo session at an outdoor location with large trees
Father and daughter hugging, with soft focus trees creating a peaceful outdoor backdrop.
A photo of four generations of family laughing together during their summer reunion extended family photoshoot in an outdoor park surrounded by large trees
Three generations smiling at the camera as they stand in front of a wooded area during their extended family session at McKay Lake.
Couple sitting close together on a log, smiling warmly at the camera during their extended family photo session.
Two cousins sharing a sweet moment, with soft greenery in the background.
Extended family walking together down a tree-lined path at McKay Lake, dressed in coordinating maroon and black outfits.
Three adult siblings standing close together, laughing and enjoying a candid moment during their session.
Grandparents sitting together on a log, smiling and holding hands during a summer family session at McKay Lake in Thornton, Colorado.

If you’d like to see another session at this beautiful spot, take a peek at the Lynch family’s fall mini session.

If you can see your family in moments like these—but the idea of making it happen feels a little overwhelming—I’ve got you. I’ll guide you every step of the way so it feels relaxed and natural, not forced.

Headshot of Theresa Pelser, an Erie-based family and newborn photographer.

I’m Theresa, a family photographer and mom of four based in Erie, Colorado.

I work with families who want photos that feel like real life—connected and true to who they are.

Whether you’re planning a cozy in-home session or heading outdoors, I bring a calm, encouraging presence and an eye for the moments that matter most.

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