The Portillo’s Fall Mini Session at Thomas Reservoir

The Portillo Family

A mother and father cuddle their two young children as they laugh together during their fall mini session at Thomas Reservoir

Allison, I was thrilled to see you again for another mini session with your family.

Especially so close to Elias’s first birthday. Can you believe that it’s been a whole year since you, Juan, and Eva were anticipating his arrival? You had a feeling he was going to come early. And he did.

I have moments when it seems like my boys were babies just the other day. Then reality knocks on the door and I remember that three of the four are grown and out on their own.

Having joyful family photos like yours is the best way to keep the childhood memories alive. I can picture you sitting down with Eva and Eli, photo album in hand, to relive stories of their early years.

There are so many photos filled with joy from our time together that I’m hard pressed to pick a favorite. There’s Eva peeking out from behind Juan. Elias’s chubby little cheeks and baby teeth as he laughs in delight. The tenderness in your eyes as you gaze upon Eva and lightly kiss her hand.

I could go on but I’m certain you’ll have your own favorites that spark joy in your heart.

So, here are just a few of my favorite photos from your fall mini session at Thomas Reservoir. Enjoy!

xo, Theresa

Gear used during this fall mini session: Think Tank Backstory 13Canon 5D Mark IV, and Canon EF 50mm 1.2L.


Interested in a mini session for your family?

Click here to join the waitlist and be amongst the first to know about upcoming minis.

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

Choosing a location for photos that fits your family

Choosing a location for photos that fits your family

Finding the right spot for your family photos The location for your session matters, but not in a “we have to find the most amazing backdrop” kind of way. What I’m really looking for is a spot that helps your family feel comfortable. Somewhere with good light, enough...

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’ve been wondering how your kids will do, whether everyone will cooperate, or if family photos might feel a little awkward at first, you’re in good company. Most families feel that way before their session....

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...