Happy Valley Reservoir Family Photoshoot
Miranda and Jake have had me photograph their family for quite a few years now, and each time feels like catching up with old friends. I’ve known Jake since our younger futsal days, so seeing him as a devoted dad with his gorgeous family always feels a bit special. When Miranda reached out for some updated portraits, we decided that Happy Valley Reservoir would be the perfect backdrop — open space, lush greenery, and that quiet early-morning calm that makes photos glow with softness.
We met just as the day was waking up, the clouds diffusing the light beautifully. The air carried that crisp, dewy scent that lingers after dawn. Miranda was radiant in a flowing gown that caught the slightest breeze, Jake kept things relaxed in a shirt and shorts, and their two little girls absolutely stole the show in matching pink dresses. The contrast of pastel pinks against the cool tones of the water and gum trees couldn’t have been more perfect. It’s those little touches of coordination that make family photos pop — without feeling overly styled.
Early Morning start for a Happy Valley Reservoir Family Photoshoot
Happy Valley Reservoir in the early hours is beautiful. The stillness of the water mirrors the sky, and the native bush seems to hum quietly with life just out of sight. It’s a place that feels both wild and peaceful — ideal for families who love nature without wanting to venture too far from Adelaide. The cloudy morning gave us a soft, even light that was flattering for everyone, and meant we didn’t have to battle harsh shadows or squinting eyes.
The girls, full of energy from the get-go, darted down the path before I could even adjust my camera strap. Their laughter carried across the reservoir, echoing through the trees. Those spontaneous bursts of energy are what make family sessions so rewarding — they remind you that perfection isn’t about still poses or forced smiles. It’s about honest, playful moments that show exactly who they are right now, in this chapter of their family’s story.
Natural Moments and Playful Chaos
Photographing young kids is equal parts patience and play. You can’t plan every moment, and honestly, that’s where the real gold lies. As Miranda tried to gather the girls for a few “nice” shots, they decided it was time to chase each other through the trees. What followed was a blur of pink dresses, hair ribbons flying, and Jake pretending to give chase. Every giggle, every twirl, every tumble was worth capturing — the kind of raw, genuine energy that gives photos their heart.
At one point, one of the girls stopped just long enough to grin mischievously at the camera before sprinting off again, leaving her sister in fits of laughter. Miranda looked torn between amusement and mild exasperation, but you could see the pride shining through. Families aren’t meant to be perfectly composed; they’re meant to be real. And in those chaotic, joy-filled frames, their personalities came alive in a way that staged photos never could.
Among the Trees and by the Water’s Edge
Happy Valley Reservoir has so many beautiful pockets for photos — from shaded paths lined with towering gums to open clearings that overlook the water. We took full advantage of the landscape, moving between the trees and down towards the water’s edge. The girls’ pink dresses contrasted beautifully against the muted greens and earthy browns, and the cloudy sky added a moody, soft glow that made the colours pop without feeling overdone.
A Family That Grows Together
One of my favourite parts about photographing families like Miranda and Jake’s is seeing how much they change from session to session. The girls are growing into their own little personalities — cheeky, curious, and full of confidence. You can see the comfort they have with being in front of the camera, which comes from years of turning photo sessions into family adventures. It’s not about posing anymore; it’s about being together and letting me capture that dynamic as naturally as possible.
Every family shoot feels like a time capsule. When they look back years from now, these photos will bring back the sound of those giggles, the feel of the grass underfoot, and the warmth of being together. That’s the beauty of regular family photography — it’s not just about documenting faces, it’s about preserving emotion and connection through time. Happy Valley Reservoir provided the perfect stage for this family’s next chapter.
Miranda and Jake’s Happy Valley Reservoir Family Photoshoot was filled with laughter, running feet, and those beautiful in-between moments that make photos worth taking. Their family radiates warmth, and the girls’ cheeky personalities turned what could’ve been a simple portrait session into a joyful morning adventure. Cloudy skies, a peaceful reservoir, and a family full of love — the perfect ingredients for timeless images.
There’s something special about photographing families you’ve known for years. You see their story unfold, one photoshoot at a time, and you know these images will become part of their family history. Happy Valley Reservoir provided the perfect setting for another unforgettable chapter.
