Cottage Family Session in Horton: Lavallee Family

There's something undeniably special about family gatherings at a cottage during the summer — the warm sun, the gentle sound of the water lapping at the shore, and the laughter that fills the air. Recently, I had the pleasure of documenting one such magical family moment with the Lavallee family at their beautiful cottage in Horton, Ontario. It was a perfect day to capture the essence of family, nature, and the joy of summer.

The Lavallee family had gathered for a reunion at their family cottage, nestled along the picturesque shores of the Ottawa River. With its serene setting, it was the ideal backdrop for a relaxed, fun-filled extended family session. The day started with everyone coming together for some classic cottage activities: a few rounds of croquet, paddle boarding, and boat rides. There’s nothing like the authentic moments of connection that happen when you’re surrounded by nature, away from the distractions of daily life.

As a photographer, the beauty of a family session at a cottage is the ease and comfort it brings. Instead of stiff, posed pictures, you get to capture genuine smiles, candid moments, and family members enjoying each other’s company in a setting that feels like home. From the children splashing in the water to the grandparents sharing stories on the porch, every shot was filled with warmth and love.

One of my favorite moments from the session was when the family gathered on the dock, the golden evening light casting a soft glow on everyone’s faces. The Lavallees are a fun-loving, close-knit family, and you could see it in every picture. Their shared sense of humor and the bonds between siblings, cousins, aunts, and uncles made for some truly heartwarming photos.

The cottage session truly showcased the importance of family traditions, especially those that are passed down through generations. Whether it’s playing a favorite game, swimming in the lake, or simply enjoying a quiet moment together, it’s these experiences that build lifelong memories.

I’m so grateful to the Lavallee family for letting me capture their summer at the cottage, and I hope these photos will continue to remind them of the joy and love that fills their family time for years to come.