Carver Lake Family Photos | The Little Things That Make Them Them

There’s something really special about photographing a family for years and getting to watch their kids grow right in front of your camera.

This family has been in front of my lens for quite a while now, and every session feels a little different as their kids grow and their personalities come more and more to life.

Their daughter has grown into the sweetest little girl. She wanted to hold my hand as we walked, and more than once she proudly showed me how she could make a heart with her hands. ❤️ Those little moments are the ones I love catching.

And their son? He’s growing into such a great young man. You can see how closely he watches his dad—what he does and what he loves—and he has such a sweet instinct to look out for and protect his little sister. It was so fun to watch. He's also pretty proud of where he's at in his reading levels (way to go, teacher mama!).

We spent our session hiking along Carver Lake, stopping for photos along the way. We found baby ducks (which, of course, were a highlight!), and we also discovered some trash someone had left behind. Their daughter was genuinely concerned about it, and Mom ended up picking it up and putting it in her pocket. I thought that said so much about her kind heart and her love for the world around her.

And all throughout the session, Mom and Dad were just… Mom and Dad. Loving, patient, kind, and completely present with their kids. There’s something really beautiful about watching parents who clearly enjoy their family and give their kids the space to just be themselves.

Of course, we couldn't let a family session go by without switching things up a little. So we tried some new tickle attack photos—and they did not disappoint. 😂

These are the sessions I love most. Not because everyone is perfectly posed or looking at the camera, but because we get to capture the little pieces of who a family is right now. The hand-holding. The sibling protecting. The baby ducks. The concern over a piece of trash. The tickle attacks. The laughter.

All the little things that make this family them.

Hi, I’m Lindsay Wiggins  — ​

the photographer behind Wiggins Photography in Cottage Grove, Minnesota.

I photograph families, seniors, couples, and all the little seasons worth remembering, with a focus on genuine connection, joyful moments, and images that feel like you.

For weddings, my husband, Mark, joins me as a second photographer, bringing a calm presence and creative eye to every celebration.

​Thanks for following along! I'm so glad you're here.

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