Avery + Derek at Ballard Nature Center

There’s something about golden hour in the fall that feels like pure magic—warm light filtering through the trees, crunchy leaves underfoot, and that cozy glow that makes every moment feel timeless. Avery and Derek’s mini session at Ballard Nature Center captured that essence perfectly, and their sweet pup Dexter brought the whole thing to life.
As the sun dipped lower, the fields and trees lit up in rich amber and gold. The love between Avery and Derek was effortless and easy to photograph—genuine laughter, subtle glances, and that quiet kind of closeness you can’t fake. And Dexter? He stole the show, of course. From running ahead on the trails to pausing patiently for photos, he was full of personality and totally in his element.
Ballard Nature Center, with its winding paths, tall prairie grasses, and woodland backdrops, gave us the perfect canvas for this session. We wandered through sun-drenched clearings and tucked-away spots that framed the couple beautifully against the fall landscape.
This gallery is a warm reminder that mini sessions can still be rich with connection, movement, and meaning. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, updating family photos, or simply wanting to bottle up the season, golden hour at Ballard never disappoints.
Scroll through to see some of my favorite moments with this adorable trio. 🍂💛