There’s something especially fun about photographing families you’ve known since the very beginning—and this crew is one of those for me. I’ve been taking their photos since the twins were newborns, so seeing them now as busy, personality-filled three-year-olds feels a little surreal (and a lot more active).
This Christmas card session took place at Hickory Ridge Tree Farm, which is one of those locations that just works. Rows of evergreens, open space for kids to move around, and a setting that instantly feels like the holidays without needing much extra effort.
It was an overcast but warm mid-November morning—honestly ideal for photos. No harsh shadows, no squinting, and no one freezing. Just soft, even light and a relaxed pace, which came in handy because these two had plans… and those plans mostly involved running.
The twins—a boy and a girl—were exactly what you’d expect from three-year-olds in a Christmas tree farm: curious, fast, and fully committed to exploring everything. There was a lot of movement, a lot of laughter, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting. They darted between trees, checked out every possible path, and kept everyone on their toes.
And for the record—no trees were harmed in the making of these photos. A few were enthusiastically inspected, maybe lightly hugged, but all survived.
What makes sessions like this work isn’t trying to slow kids down—it’s leaning into it. Let them run, let them play, and capture what happens in between. That’s where the real moments show up. The quick hand holds, the parents stepping in to scoop someone up, the shared laughs when things don’t go exactly as planned.
Mom and dad were great through all of it—easygoing, patient, and clearly used to the energy that comes with twins. There’s a natural rhythm to how they interact as a family, and that connection came through in every part of the session. Nothing felt forced, which is exactly what you want for photos that actually mean something later.
The result is a gallery full of genuine moments—kids being kids, parents right there with them, and just enough structure to pull it all together for Christmas cards that don’t feel overly posed.
Tree farm sessions are always a solid choice this time of year, especially around Columbus, Ohio. Add in a family you’ve watched grow over the years, two adorable (and very busy) three-year-olds, and a morning that cooperates weather-wise, and it’s about as good as it gets.
