Some sessions are special because of the location. Others are special because of the people.

I’ve known Christina since our school days many years ago, so it’s been such a privilege to watch her family grow - and even more meaningful to be the one documenting each new chapter along the way. One of my favorite parts of photographing the Kastner family is that we rarely visit the same place twice. Every year we look for a new backdrop that reflects this season of their lives while creating something a little different than the year before.

For this session, we headed to Downtown Omaha, beginning at the beautifully renovated Gene Leahy Mall. With its modern architecture, winding walkways, fountains, and vibrant green spaces, it offers endless variety for family portraits while still feeling relaxed and playful. The kids had room to explore, laugh, and simply enjoy being together.. which always leads to the most genuine smiles.

As the evening drew to a close, we made our way to a nearby rooftop just in time for golden hour. The warm sunlight spilling across the Omaha skyline created the perfect finishing touch, wrapping the Kastner family in that soft, glowing light every photographer hopes for. Those final moments - when the sun is low, everyone is relaxed, and the city stretches out behind them..became some of my favorite images from the session.

I’m incredibly thankful for families like the Kastners who continue to trust me year after year. Watching children grow through my lens and preserving these milestones is one of the greatest gifts of this job. I already can’t wait to see where our next adventure together takes us.