The Sweetest Start to a New School Year


Hey friends!


I know the school year just ended, but I have to plan ahead and get my calendar all ready for new sessions this summer. That's right - back to school sessions — and I want to share a little peek into it! These sessions are always a blast, and this one with two sweet sisters was no exception.


If you’re new around here, my back to school sessions aren’t your typical school portraits. We take things outdoors, keep it fun, and add a little vintage charm. Instead of a stiff backdrop and studio lighting, I set up in a natural setting somewhere around Redlands, Yucaipa, Beaumont, or the surrounding Inland Empire area. This time, we got lucky with some dreamy golden light and a quiet spot that felt just right.


One of the things I love most? My antique school desk — it's always a hit with the kids! It gives the whole session a nostalgic feel, and paired with a cute sign showing what grade they’re heading into, it makes the perfect memory for families to look back on.


These two little girls totally brought the energy — giggles, twirls, and all the excitement that comes with starting a new school year. Whether it's Kindergarten or fifth grade, there’s something so magical about capturing that moment of growing up.


I keep these sessions short and sweet — just enough time to snap a few timeless portraits and let kids be kids. No pressure, no forced smiles, just real moments.


If you're thinking ahead to next school year and want something a little more personal than the traditional school pics, definitely keep an eye out! These sessions are seasonal and always fill up fast. My email subscribers always get first dibs. Click here to subscribe to my email list. Notifications to signup for back to school sessions will go out July 1st, 2025.


Thanks for stopping by and following along — and here's to all the fresh notebooks, new beginnings, and the joy of learning 📚🍎✨


With love & grace,

Heidi


A child sitting at an antique wooden school desk outdoors with fall foliage in the background.
Young child playing and sitting on a rustic wooden bench in a wooded outdoor setting at golden hour.
Student writes in notebook at wooden desk with red apple, showing focus on learning outdoors.
Young child writing with a pencil at a wooden table outdoors in natural sunlight.
Small child stands by vintage school desk outdoors holding black letter board with supplies on desktop surface.
A child in black dress holding a drink stands beside an antique school desk outdoors in a dirt area.
Split image series showing playful moments with dark wooden desk against natural outdoor setting and autumn leaves.
Small wooden student desk sits outdoors in nature with a drink and snack on top while someone sits at it.
A vintage wooden school desk sits outdoors with supplies and decorative items arranged on its surface.
Student in rust-colored dress sits at vintage wooden school desk in outdoor setting with sunlit trees in background.
Young student in a red shirt sits at a wooden desk with a composition notebook outdoors.
Student in a red dress studiously writing at an old wooden desk with pencils in glass jar outdoors.
A child in a red turtleneck sweater sits at a desk while looking at the camera and grinning.
Someone wearing a red dress holds a chalkboard at a rustic outdoor table setting with drinks and decorations.
A young child in a rust-colored dress stands outdoors holding a red apple while smiling at the camera.

Ready to book a session?


Want to schedule your own back to school session? Just fill out the contact form and I’ll get back to you ASAP. I can't wait to hear from you!