As an outdoor, natural light photographer, there are certain things that are important in order to have a successful photo session in my opinion.  I always keep a close look at temperatures and the wind factor.  I try my hardest to make sure the clients feel relaxed and comfortable.  I have them fill out questionnaires and provide a guidebook on what to think about before we meet. I make sure I select a location that fits the style of the family. Living in Santa Clarita comes with certain challenges as far as location goes when you request "pretty" as your style.  No lush forests or green open fields. No water creeks or countryside dirt roads with flowers caressing the edges of the roads. We live in the desert and during this time of the year it is, to say the least very dry everywhere. Most "pretty" locations need permits and costs extra $$ in order to shoot there, or they are private properties and they will ask you to leave.  We can always travel out to the beach and have those stunning backdrops but sometimes it needs to be local for busy families to save time and not make it a full days project. well, there is good news! We do have hidden gems in this town.  You just have to know where.  This location was recommended to me by a Facebook friend and I'm so glad she reached out. When the sun drops and hits the trees this area lights up and comes to life. When you put this stunning family in the center, this is what you get. Even though we got a little more wind and flies than what we asked for I couldn't be more happy working with this family for their family portraits.