Why Windy, Cold Weather Might Just Be the Secret to Your Favorite Photos


Let me tell you something about Minnesota weather: it doesn’t care what season it is, what your outfit looks like, or how long you’ve been planning your session. It changes on a dime, and sometimes it throws you a wild card. That’s exactly what happened with the Bjelland family session — and honestly, it turned out even better because of it.


We scheduled this shoot during the heart of summer, expecting a warm golden hour out by the Lac qui Parle lookout. It’s one of my favorite spots in Western Minnesota, with wildflowers stretching out across the prairie and that stunning lake view that practically begs to be photographed at sunset. But when the Bjellands arrived, the air was anything but warm. The wind was howling off the water, and the temperature had dropped — hard.


Jessica, her husband, and their two adorable kids showed up in light summer clothes and big smiles… and no sweaters. Bless them — they were freezing, but they were ready to roll with it. The kids were champs, and even though their hair was flying everywhere and the breeze kept us on our toes, they leaned into the moment.


And of course, they brought their dog. This pup was such a star — sitting perfectly, tongue out, tail wagging like he was just happy to be part of the family fun. Honestly, I always encourage families to bring their pets along. If they’re transportable, they’re welcome! I love animals, and they add such a sweet layer of personality to your portraits. They’re part of your family, too — and they absolutely belong in the frame.


Now back to the weather.


This is where experience and gear matter. I used off-camera flash to balance out the dramatic sky and bring out the rich tones in both the environment and their faces. You wouldn’t believe how beautiful the stormy clouds became when lit just right — golden rays breaking through, lighting them like something out of a painting. It’s moments like these that turn a tricky forecast into jaw-dropping images.


We captured playful sibling moments, a heartfelt father-daughter hug, a cozy snuggle between mom and son, and that perfect family portrait — with the dog front and center, of course. Everything about this session was bold, moody, and emotionally real.


What I love most about sessions like this is how they reflect real life. Not the perfectly posed, magazine-ready kind — but the true, joyful, wild moments that families actually live in. The ones that make you laugh when you look back. The ones your kids will remember.


Tips for Rocking a Session (Even in Crazy Weather):

1. Bring layers.

Even in July, Minnesota can throw you a curveball. Pack a neutral sweater or jacket just in case — it can help you warm up between shots.


2. Don’t let wind scare you.

Wind adds movement, emotion, and authenticity. It's not about perfect hair — it's about real moments.


3. Trust the process.

With off-camera flash and professional lighting, I’ll make sure your faces are beautifully lit and the skies look like they belong on a canvas.


4. Bring the dog.

Seriously. Or your cat. Or goat. If you can get them there, I’m here for it. Animals are family, and they make every session feel even more genuine and fun.


5. Relax.

The best photos come when you’re just being you. Let your kids be kids. Let your dog sniff everything. I’ll guide you through it while capturing the best parts.


This is why I love family photography. It’s not about perfection — it’s about connection. And the Bjelland family session reminded me exactly why I do what I do.


Thank you, Jessica and family, for trusting me with your memories — and for embracing the wind, the chill, the chaos, and the love.



Family bonding with their dog in a grassy field during golden hour sunset.
A black and white photo sequence shows several people crouching together in a grassy field at sunset.
A group shares a warm sunset moment with their dog in a grassy field by the water.
A group walks together through tall grass by a lake at sunset with dramatic clouds overhead.
Black and white photo of a family holding hands while walking together through tall grass near the water at sunset.
A group gathers on a blanket by the lake at sunset with tall grasses and dramatic clouds in the background.
A black and white outdoor family portrait taken on a grassy hillside with dramatic cloudy sky in the background.
A rustic outdoor family photoshoot featuring scenic lakeside views at sunset with natural grass and dramatic clouds.
A loving family bonding moment captured in black and white against a dramatic cloudy sky at sunset.
Three people stand together against a dramatic sunset sky over a waterfront.
A sweet embrace between two people in a wildflower field at sunset captured in black and white photography.
Two people share a joyful moment together by a lakeside during golden hour with wildflowers in the foreground.
Someone in a flowy dress walks through a sunlit meadow of tall golden grass with a lake and mountains in the background.
Black and white portrait of a tender moment between parent and child outdoors against a dramatic cloudy sky.
Two people share a joyful moment together in a field during sunset, with golden light illuminating their playful interaction.
A heartwarming black and white moment captured in a field as laughter fills the air on a cloudy summer day.
A joyful family plays together in a field at sunset with warm golden light and coastal scenery.
Mother and daughter share a tender embrace at sunset by a lake with wildflowers in the foreground.
Black and white photo series of children playing in a field at sunset with dramatic clouds in the background.
Black and white portrait of two women with long hair outdoors at sunset smiling while posing together.
Two people smiling together at sunset by a lake with golden light illuminating the scene.
A family enjoys sunset together on a grassy hillside overlooking a tranquil lake during golden hour.
A couple embraces at sunset by a lake with dramatic clouds in the background.
Black and white portrait of two people embracing in a field at dusk.
A couple embraces during a romantic sunset photo session by a waterfront with dramatic orange and blue skies.
A romantic black and white photo series shows a couple embracing in a grassy field at sunset.
Couple laughs together in a sweet moment by the water during golden hour with dramatic clouds overhead.
Series of seven outdoor sunset portraits showing a young child's joyful expressions.
Young child standing in tall grass by a lake at sunset wearing casual summer clothing.
Black and white portrait of young boy in polo shirt smiling in field at dusk.
Black and white portrait of a young child standing in tall grass near a lake at sunset, wearing a polo shirt and shorts.
A series of seven black and white images showing someone posing playfully in tall grass.
A joyful figure in a blue dress stands near wildflowers by a lake at sunset.
Young people posing in a field of wildflowers by a lake with dramatic blue sky overhead.
A candid portrait at sunset shows a playful pose against a dramatic sky and tall grass.
A romantic black and white portrait of a couple in a field at dusk.
A couple shares an intimate moment during a golden hour photoshoot near a lake with tall grass and dramatic clouds.
Series of black and white family portraits captured against a moody sky and grassland landscape.
Two children stand together in tall grass at sunset by a lake wearing casual summer outfits.
Black and white portrait of two children posing together in front of a water view.
A playful piggyback ride scene unfolds against a verdant landscape with cloudy skies.
Family and their dog pose together in a field under dramatic stormy skies.
An affectionate moment captured outdoors with a dramatic cloudy sky background.
Family with dog poses together in a grassy field by the water under stormy summer skies.
Candid family moments captured in a waterfront meadow during golden hour with dramatic storm clouds.