Golden Sunset Family Session at Lake Rebecca Park | the Hellens

​Summer evenings in Minnesota don’t get much better than this. When I met up with the Hellen family at Lake Rebecca Park for their session, the sun was dipping low, casting everything in that golden glow that photographers (and families!) dream about. Around us, people were fishing and enjoying the evening, but we carved out our own little pocket of calm to capture their story.

This family is no stranger to my camera. I’ve had the privilege of photographing them for multiple years in a row, and every time I reconnect with them, I’m reminded of just how special it is to walk alongside families through different seasons of life.

Mom, a dedicated second grade teacher, is heading back into the busyness of a new school year while also pursuing her master’s degree — talk about inspiring! Dad kept things lighthearted, while their kids brought the energy and sweetness that made the night precious. Their first grader was full of curiosity and excitement, and their pre-K daughter stole the show when I asked her who her favorite princess was. Without missing a beat, she smiled and said, “Me!” That confidence and sparkle is something I hope she carries with her forever.

As the sun set over the lake, we wrapped up with laughter, a little silliness, and the kind of natural, joy-filled moments that remind me why I love family photography. Sessions like these aren’t just about pictures — they’re about pausing in the middle of life’s busyness to celebrate the season you’re in, exactly as it is.
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Hellen family, it’s always a joy to photograph you, and I can’t wait to see where the next chapter takes you!

Hey! It's Lindsay Wiggins!

I'm the wifey in our husband and wife wedding and portrait photographer team based in Cottage Grove, Minnesota! What exactly does that mean? You'll have to find out more about us, but the basic idea is that I rock all the portrait sessions and Mark sometimes joins in the fun to second shoot on wedding days (because #lifewiththreekids)!

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