Cozy Winter Family Session with a Toddler & Dog in East Peoria, Illinois

January in Illinois doesn’t ask for perfection. It asks for warm coats, deep breaths, and a willingness to lean into what is.

This full family session took place on January 21st, 2026 at the Illinois Central College Disc Golf Course in East Peoria, Illinois — tucked into a quiet patch of pine trees during the mid‑afternoon winter light. A mama, her 20‑month‑old, and their dog showed up bundled in matching coats and beanies, ready for whatever the afternoon decided to give us.

And what it gave us was exactly what it was supposed to.

When Toddlers (and Dogs) Have Their Own Plans

Here’s the honest truth: the toddler didn’t listen. The dog didn’t either. Both were fully in their own worlds - curious, distracted, and very uninterested in being directed.

And that’s not something I try to correct.

At 20 months old, kids aren’t meant to perform. They’re meant to explore, to react honestly, to seek comfort when they need it. This little one kept getting cold, so she did the most natural thing in the world… she snuggled straight into her mom. Over and over again.

Those moments: the leaning in, the arms wrapped tight inside a winter coat, the quiet pauses - those are the photos that last.

Why I Photograph Families This Way

As a family photographer in Morton, Illinois, I work with a lot of parents who worry before their session.

“What if my kid won’t smile?” “What if they won’t listen?” “What if it’s chaotic?”

But the families who walk away happiest are the ones who release the idea of control.

I don’t photograph families to make things look perfect. I photograph them to make things true. Especially with young children, the magic isn’t in everyone looking at the camera.. it’s in the way a child finds safety in their parent, the way a mom instinctively adjusts a hat, the way a dog circles back to their people.

Those things can’t be staged. And they shouldn’t be.

Winter Family Sessions Are Quiet in the Best Way

Winter sessions are often overlooked, but they’re some of my favorites.

The pine trees at ICC created this natural, calm backdrop. Soft light filtering through, muted tones, and none of the visual noise you get in busier seasons. Winter forces everyone to slow down. There’s more closeness. More holding. More stillness between movement.

Matching coats and beanies weren’t just practical - they added a timeless, cohesive look that will age beautifully. No distractions. Just connection.

Documenting the Season You’re In

One day, this mom won’t remember whether her toddler followed directions.

She’ll remember the weight of her child tucked into her chest. The way those tiny hands grabbed onto her coat. The season where being held solved everything.

This phase doesn’t last. But photographs let you revisit it honestly. Not polished, not forced, but real.

That’s always my goal.

Family Photography in Morton, Peoria & Surrounding Areas

I’m a family photographer based in Morton, Illinois, regularly serving Morton, Peoria, East Peoria, and Pekin. I specialize in documenting families with young children in a way that feels relaxed, natural, and deeply personal.

If you’re looking for photos that reflect who your family actually is: energy, messiness, tenderness and all - I’d love to work with you.

You don’t need your kids (or your dog) to behave.

You just need to show up.

Interested in booking a family session? Reach out through my contact page to get on the calendar.

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