Summer Evening Garden Family Photo Session

Posted by Charis Elisabeth

Late summer has a way of slowing things down, especially as the sun starts to dip lower in the sky and the light softens across open fields. This family photo session at The Grove in Arcadia, OK felt like that kind of evening.

This sweet family of seven arrived a bit later than planned due to a few unexpected factors, which is something most of us parents can relate to, especially when coordinating multiple kids. The good thing is when families arrive late, I always have a plan so that the session can still feel relaxed and not rushed. The late summer golden hour still gave us beautiful light and we spent the evening playing together.

Letting Kids Lead the Way

The Grove is a wildflower pasture and growing flower farm just north of Oklahoma City that invites movement and play, which makes it such a lovely setting for families who want their session to feel natural. The kids spent time running through the flowers, chasing one another, and exploring the open space while their parents stayed close. That freedom allowed their personalities to come through without pressure, creating images that feel honest and connected. Two wooly doll sheep also add a fun element to the space.

It’s this kind of environment that supports the type of family photography I love most, where moments can be guided gently rather than directed and I get to just document it as it unfolds.

Why The Grove Works So Well for Family Sessions

Once the flowers begin to bloom in late June, The Grove offers a wide variety of settings that last through October. Families can move between open fields, wildflower areas, and the pond, which creates a lot of visual variety within a single session. Each season brings something a little different, so no two sessions ever feel the same.

One thing to keep in mind when planning a session here is that ants are part of the landscape, and they do tend to bite. Closed-toe shoes are a smart choice unless you are comfortable risking a few bites, especially for younger kids who may spend time sitting or playing in the grass.

How to Book a Photo Session at The Grove

If you are interested in holding your family photo session at The Grove, the process is fairly simple but does require a bit of planning ahead. Sessions at this location are booked by reaching out directly to the owner through her booking link on Instagram, where you can request your date and time. The rental fee for photo sessions is $50 per hour.

For my clients, The Grove is already included in my location guide (but clients must cove the rental fee), so if this spot stands out to you, just make sure to mention it when we are planning your session together. I am always happy to help you decide if it is the right fit for your family based on the season, the ages of your kids, and the overall feel you are hoping for. I will take care of booking The Grove and coordinating the details.

A Great Option for Oklahoma City Family Photography

For families looking for an Oklahoma City family photographer who values movement, connection, and ease, The Grove in Arcadia is a beautiful option that feels removed from the city without being far away. Sessions here tend to feel unrushed and playful, which helps parents relax and allows kids to engage in ways that feel natural to them.

Ready for your family photo session? Then reach out and let’s schedule your family photos session. Contact me here.

If you enjoyed this post then check out these ones:

• Pregnancy and Postpartum Resources in OKC
• Family Fun in OKC

The Blog Post Was Written By

Charis Elisabeth

Charis is an Oklahoma City photographer providing timeless, storytelling family and newborn photography to sentimental families in Edmond, Oklahoma City, Yukon, Midwest City Norman, Moore and the broader Central Oklahoma area. As a certified and award winning photographer, Charis specializes in at-home, documentary photo sessions and is considered one of the premier Oklahoma Newborn Photographers. As a mom of 3, Charis is passionate about connecting with other local moms and ensuring that you have the resources you need to thrive in motherhood.