A Winter Family Session at Cascade of Time Gardens in Banff
Every time I meet a new family for a session, I leave thinking the exact same thing: That was the sweetest family.
Of course, I love creating beautiful images, but what surprises me every single time is how meaningful the meeting itself feels. Connecting with people, even briefly, is just as rewarding as delivering their gallery. This session in Banff was one of those moments that stays with you long after the camera is packed away.
This family had travelled all the way from the UK to experience the magic of Banff in winter. We originally planned to meet at Lake Louise, but an accident on the road shifted our plans back to Banff. Sometimes those last-minute changes end up being blessings in disguise.
The moment I saw them approaching across the Banff bridge toward the Cascade of Time Garden, it already felt different. They spotted me waiting and gave a big wave as they walked up, smiling like we were old friends finally meeting in person. As soon as they entered through the gates, mum came straight over and gave me a hug. No awkward introductions, no hesitation. Just warmth.
And honestly, from that second on, it felt like I’d known them forever.
Their son was the absolute sweetest, bundled up in red and wearing a Santa hat that perfectly matched the Christmas season. He had that gentle, curious energy that makes photographing kids such a joy. Mum laughed as she told me she had literally bought her jacket two minutes before coming to meet me. One of those very real, very human travel moments that somehow makes the photos feel even more special.
What followed was a mix of gentle prompts, laughter, and a completely impromptu snowball fight. The kind that happens naturally when everyone forgets about the camera for a moment. We laughed, played, and soaked in the winter air, barely remembering that the session plan had changed at all.
As we were leaving the gardens, we were lucky enough to spot a deer quietly grazing on berries nearby. One of those soft, unexpected Banff moments that feels like a gift. It slowed us all down for a second, reminding us where we were and how special it is to experience nature so closely here. Moments like that add something extra to a session, a quiet kind of magic you cannot plan for, but always remember.
Sessions like this remind me why I do what I do. I get to step into a family’s story, even briefly, and witness the dynamic they share. The quiet glances, the inside jokes, the way parents and children move together without thinking. And I get to preserve that with my lens.
Every family I meet brings something different, but the feeling is always the same. Gratitude. Joy. And a deep appreciation for being trusted with moments that matter.
If you’re planning a trip to Banff, whether you’re coming from nearby or across the world, your story here deserves to be remembered. And I’d be honoured to be the one to capture it.
