Denim, Daylight & Forest Fun with the Dunn Family
The Dunn family joined me for a sun-drenched forest session in Stellenbosch, where denim tones, tall trees, and golden light created the perfect setting for a relaxed and playful shoot. With their coordinated outfits and effortless connection, the family brought warmth and authenticity to every frame.
Scroll down to view the full gallery and the story behind this beautiful session.
The Full Story: A Denim-Inspired Afternoon Among the Trees
This shoot with the Dunn family took place in one of Stellenbosch’s scenic forest locations—an area known for its soft light, earthy textures, and peaceful atmosphere. The tall trees filtered golden sunlight through their leaves, creating an ideal canvas for capturing joyful, unscripted moments between parents and their two daughters.
Meet the Dunn Family
With matching denim tones and natural charm, the Dunns arrived ready for fun and connection. Their styling created a beautiful visual harmony against the forest backdrop, allowing emotion and interaction to shine through every image.
The two little girls wore sleeveless denim summer dresses, which brought a sweet, playful energy to the session.
Mom matched them in a soft, denim summer dress—simple, elegant, and flattering in the forest light.
Dad wore a denim unbuttoned shirt layered over a white T-shirt with chino shorts, striking the perfect balance between casual and stylish.
Their outfits, while coordinated, never felt overly styled—just relaxed and real, like the family themselves.
Why Forest Locations Are Ideal for Family Portraits
Forests provide a calming and grounded environment for family sessions. Kids love the freedom to move, explore, and play, while parents can slow down and simply be present. In the case of the Dunns, the trees created a natural frame around their moments of laughter, hugs, and shared wonder.
The session flowed easily—walking along trails, stopping in clearings, and capturing both posed and candid interactions in beautiful golden-hour light.
The Mood: Playful, Present, and Light-Filled
The joy between the Dunn family was unmistakable. The girls twirled together, played with leaves, and cuddled up to their parents between bursts of laughter. These authentic, unscripted interactions are what make forest shoots so rewarding—they allow families to be themselves in a space that encourages calm and closeness.
It was less about posing, and more about pausing—and that made all the difference.
Styling Notes: Denim Done Right
Denim can be an excellent choice for outdoor sessions, especially when paired with neutral elements and soft light. The Dunns’ choice of matching denim tones worked beautifully in the forest setting—highlighting skin tones, catching light naturally, and giving the entire gallery a cohesive, timeless feel.
If you’re planning a family shoot in nature, consider simple textures, comfortable movement, and pieces that complement your family’s personality. This shoot proves that you don’t need a complicated wardrobe to get magazine-worthy images—just thoughtfulness and intention.
Ready to Capture Your Own Forest Story?
Elaine Otto Photography offers lifestyle family sessions throughout Stellenbosch, Cape Town, and the Western Cape. Each shoot is designed to reflect your family’s connection, story, and natural rhythm—set in beautiful outdoor locations that feel just as special as the people in them.
Let’s create a relaxed, joy-filled experience that results in portraits you’ll treasure forever.