I love hanging out with the Pellegrini clan and capturing their growing family year after year. This time around, we brought out the whole crew and kicked things off with some individual and group portraits. Their family ranch in California is a photographer’s dream, rolling hills, golden light, and wide-open space that just glows as the sun starts to dip.

Once we wrapped up the group photos, Angelina and Jordan hopped on an ATV and headed up the hill to chase the last bit of sunset light. I photographed their wedding a few years back at Triple S Ranch in Napa, Ca, so getting to continue their story now as they grow their family is something really special.

The Best Family Photo Prop Ever

Let’s talk about the new MVP of this session: a blow-up cow. Yep, you read that right. It became the perfect prop for the kids to sit on, pose with, or just be wildly entertained by. It added such a fun, playful energy to the shoot—and I’m now fully convinced every family session needs something like it.

What I love most about photographing families like the Pellegrinis is how laid-back and joyful it all feels. With two toddlers and a dog in the mix, perfection isn’t the goal, real moments are. Some of my favorite images came from the kids simply running around, laughing, or interacting with each other naturally.

Can’t Wait for Next Time

It’s never boring with this crew, and I’m already looking forward to the next round. Whether we’re chasing light, capturing chaos, or finding unexpected joy in a blow-up cow, the Pellegrini sessions are always full of heart.

woman poses with dog at California ranch

Planning a California family session that feels like you? Let’s create something relaxed, real, and meaningful, no perfect poses required. Check out a few more California sessions below!

xx,

Jennifer Lourie

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