This June, I had the joy of photographing the sweetest Retzer Nature Center family session in Waukesha, WI. The Lempke Family had won my giveaway shoot, which was part of my 2025 plan to get Krop Kreative out into the world and add some fresh, fun content to my portfolio. But more than that, it gave me the chance to connect with more people who really love storytelling-driven photography.
From the first laugh to the last candid moment, this family session at Retzer Nature Center was full of joy, curiosity, and all the little moments that make family life so memorable.
Why Retzer Nature Center Was the Perfect Location
Lauren told me her family was dreaming of prairie grasses or pine trees for their session. So, I dove into research and quickly realized that Retzer Nature Center in Waukesha had it all. Open prairies? Check. Peaceful pine groves? Check. Basically, the best of both worlds!
I offered to do a site walk before the session because I love making sure everything feels just right. Even if I’ve been to a location before, I try to always check it out again. Trails can change, wildflowers can bloom, and sometimes areas are closed for conservation. Scouting ahead gives me a chance to plan the flow of the session, find the best light, and imagine all the little moments we’ll capture. It also helps me give families peace of mind—so they know the spot we’ve chosen will work perfectly for them and their kids.
When I sent Lauren photos from my walk, she was instantly excited! She was getting both prairie and pine trees in one session—exactly what she wanted! It was the perfect setup for a relaxed, playful, and truly beautiful family session at Retzer Nature Center.
A Wild Start to the Day
Every session has a story, and this one came with a wild twist. I left about 30 minutes early to make the 45-minute drive to Waukesha. I like to give myself extra time to account for traffic, construction, or unexpected detours—and to settle into my pre-shoot routine. I usually use this time to walk around the location if possible, check the light, and mentally map out the session.
About 15 minutes into the drive, a semi-truck backed into my car on the highway on-ramp! Luckily, no one was hurt and my car came through without major damage. After a quick chat with the driver, I got back on the road. And somehow, I still arrived early!
This little adventure reminded me exactly why I always leave early. Wisconsin roads are full of surprises, and giving myself extra time means I can arrive relaxed, take a quick walk around the location, and get into my creative zone before the family even arrives. It sets the tone for a smooth, stress-free session—something I want every family to experience.
Planning Around a Toddler’s Bedtime
Timing was especially important for this session because the Lempkes have a toddler. While photographers often chase golden hour, I know that a happy, well-rested little one matters far more than the “perfect” light. An overtired toddler can make even the most beautiful backdrop feel stressful, so planning around routines is important.
We scheduled the session about an hour before golden hour. Even though it wasn’t technically golden light yet, the glow was still soft and warm. It created a beautiful, natural backdrop without pushing the little one past bedtime. Their toddler had plenty of energy, exploring the trails, collecting pinecones, and making us all laugh.
For me, the goal is always to create a session where families feel relaxed, present, and genuinely themselves. By scheduling thoughtfully, we captured authentic smiles, playful moments, and those little in-between details that make family photography so special.
Capturing the Lempke Family
The moment we hit the trails, the magic began. Their toddler had a big personality—pointing out pinecones, collecting sticks, and running between his parents with pure joy.
The session lasted about 45 minutes, which is right in my usual highlight session range of 30–45 minutes. This timing is perfect for families with young kids—it’s long enough to capture a variety of moments, but short enough to keep little ones engaged and happy. We paused often for snuggles, laughs, and the little in-between moments that aren’t planned but end up being favorites. By the end, we were singing “Mr. Golden Sun” together, laughing as we wrapped up this Retzer Nature Center family session. It felt playful, relaxed, and perfectly them.
Lifestyle family photography isn’t about stiff poses or matching outfits. It’s about documenting your family’s natural connection.
Why This Retzer Nature Center Family Session Stood Out
This session reminded me why I love being a Wisconsin lifestyle photographer. Thoughtful planning, a stunning natural location, and a family fully embracing the moment made it special.
Family photos don’t need to be formal or stressful. They can be playful, relaxed, and filled with memories you’ll want to revisit. Whether it’s singing a song or laughing while your toddler shows off a pinecone, these are the stories worth keeping.
Ready for Your Own Personalized Family Session?
If you’ve been dreaming of updated family photos, consider booking a family session at a spot like Retzer Nature Center. With its prairies, pine trees, and open skies, it’s perfect for capturing natural, heartfelt family moments. But the best part? I’m always happy to research and find a location that matches your vision—whether it’s a favorite park, a hidden local gem, or even a spot that’s special to your family.
Family photography should be relaxed, playful, and completely tailored to you. From the light to the trails to the timing around your little ones’ routines, we’ll plan a session that fits your family perfectly.
📸 Scroll through highlights from the Lempkes’ session below! When you’re ready to capture your own beautiful family magic, book a session with Krop Kreative and let’s make it happen.
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