The Philipopoulos’s Family Session at the Wise Homestead

The Philipopoulos Family

A young family cuddled on the ground laugh together during an outdoor family photo session

The wind calmed as the sun began its decent in the sky.  Dappled splotches of gold formed on the ground as light filtered through the naked Aspens lining the drive to the farm.  The monochrome landscape of dry grass from a long, cold winter was disrupted with pops of evergreen. All in all, it was a glorious spring day in Colorado.  Perfect for the Philipopoulos’ first family photo session.

A session that came about from the generosity of one very special lady.  She gifted Caroline and Yiannis with an all-inclusive portrait session for Christmas last year.  They were eager to put it to use to capture memories with their three young children, a daughter and two sons.

Artemis and Auggie have oodles of energy and didn’t stop moving for long.  Artemis smiled sweetly at her father as she twirled under his arm.  Auggie giggled out loud as he was lifted high in the air.  And sweet little Matteo, he enthusiastically bestowed sloppy wet kisses right on to his mother’s nose!

The photos from their family session are bursting with delightful moments.  A tender look between husband and wife.  Caroline laughing at Auggie’s antics.  Yiannis placing a gentle kiss on Matteo’s forehead.  Artemis striking a pose with her signature peace sign (a test shot that will be included in their gallery because I just can’t resist). 

Motherhood, ordinary yet wonderful, was unfolding in the background.  Caroline stood; hands full of one son with feet anchored to the ground by the other.  An unremarkable photo by most standards.  To me, it’s what being a mother to young children is all about.

A pleasant surprise

One day, sooner they realize, this family of five will take a walk down memory lane to relive this messy yet magical season of life.  They’ll laugh at how contrary kids can be, “photobombing” the shots of just mom and dad.  They’ll remember the look of pure joy on Artemis and Auggie faces as they took turns delivering group hugs with lightning speed.  How Matteo cautiously took in the excitement all around him.

There is one moment that stands out from all those that unfolded that day and left me pleasantly surprised. Looking at Caroline, I asked, “Would you like a photo of just the two of you?”
And Yiannis said, “I would.”  So, we did.  And it was worth it.

Caroline and Yiannis, it was a treat to spend time with you and your kids.  To help you capture these fleeting childhood memories that will be passed on to your children one day. 

Here are some of my favorite moments from your first family photo session.  Enjoy! 
xo, Theresa

Gear used during this [job type] photography session: Canon 5D Mark III and Canon EF 50mm 1.2L 

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.

You might also find this helpful

How to prepare for your outdoor family photo session

How to prepare for your outdoor family photo session

How to prepare for your outdoor family photo session If you’re feeling a little nervous about your upcoming family photos—you’re not alone. It’s completely normal to wonder if your kids will cooperate, if your outfits will come together, or if it will all feel a...

What to wear for family photos (without the stress)

What to wear for family photos (without the stress)

What to wear for family photos Let’s start with this: there are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to choosing what to wear for your family photos. These are simply ideas that tend to work well, gathered from years of photographing families in all kinds of...

What to wear for senior photos (and still feel like you)

What to wear for senior photos (and still feel like you)

What to wear for senior photos Senior photos mark a meaningful milestone—and it’s completely normal to feel unsure about what to wear to celebrate the occasion. You want to look and feel like yourself, without overthinking every detail. This guide will help you choose...