A DAY IN THE LIFE SESSION IN HAMPSTEAD, NORTH CAROLINA

There’s nothing quite like a birthday filled with exploration, laughter, and a touch of magic—and Rhett’s 3rd birthday session at **Pender Pines Garden Center** was all of that and more! As a photographer, I love capturing real, joy-filled moments, and this session was a dream. From feeding goats and llamas to wandering through a “magical forest” and discovering a hidden koi pond, every moment was filled with wonder and excitement. Surrounded by the beauty of nature and plants, Rhett’s birthday adventure was the perfect way to celebrate turning three—and to capture those memories forever.

Feeding the Goats and Llamas: Fun from the Start

We kicked off Rhett’s birthday with a visit to the friendly goats and llamas at Pender Pines. Watching Rhett feed them was absolutely adorable! Her excitement and giggles were contagious, and I couldn't stop snapping away as she interacted with the animals. There’s something so special about capturing those spontaneous moments—her little hands reaching out, her beaming smile, and the pure joy on her face as the animals came up for a snack. It was the perfect start to her birthday adventure.

The "Magical Forest" Adventure

Next, we headed into what Rhett called the "magical forest," a charming part of the garden center that felt straight out of a fairy tale. The towering trees, winding paths, and hidden nooks created the perfect setting for a little adventure. Rhett was in her element—running through the forest, twirling in her birthday dress, and exploring every hidden corner.

As a photographer, this was one of my favorite parts of the day. Rhett’s sense of wonder and curiosity made for the most beautiful, candid photos. Her wide eyes, playful energy, and natural expressions truly captured the magic of childhood. These moments are what make lifestyle photography so special—no posing, no pressure, just kids being themselves in the most enchanting settings.

Discovering the Hidden Koi Pond

Just when we thought the day couldn’t get any more magical, we discovered a hidden koi pond tucked away in the garden center. Rhett was absolutely mesmerized by the brightly colored fish swimming gracefully beneath the water’s surface. She crouched down, quietly watching them, her curiosity shining through in every expression.

This serene moment contrasted beautifully with all the earlier excitement, giving me the chance to capture both her playful spirit and her more thoughtful, curious side. It’s these little shifts in energy that make for such rich, dynamic galleries—moments of adventure mixed with quiet reflection.

Surrounded by Nature’s Beauty

The entire session was wrapped in the natural beauty of Pender Pines Garden Center. The lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and rows of plants provided the perfect backdrop for Rhett’s birthday celebration. Whether she was wandering among the flowers or admiring the towering ferns, nature added a soft, whimsical touch to every photo.

As a photographer, I love using natural environments like this. There’s something timeless about capturing kids surrounded by nature—it's as if the world itself becomes part of the story. Plus, the colors and textures of the plants added depth and beauty to every shot, making each photo feel alive and full of warmth.

A Day Full of Birthday Magic

By the end of the session, Rhett had explored, laughed, played, and created her own little birthday fairy tale. For me, photographing her 3rd birthday was not only a privilege but also a joy. Every giggle, every curious look, and every moment of discovery made for a session filled with life and love. These are the moments that families cherish, and I’m so grateful to be able to capture them.