North Louisiana Lifestyle Family and Newborn Photographer

Category: family portraits

Waiting on Baby | A Heartfelt Maternity Session in North Louisiana

Some sessions just stay with you — and this beautiful North Louisiana maternity session was one of those special ones. This sweet family of three is soon to become a family of four, and every moment we captured together was filled with tenderness, joy, and anticipation.

From the very first hug to the last soft laugh, there was so much love in the air. You could feel the excitement as they dreamed about the little life they’ll soon be holding. Melissa was absolutely glowing in her blush pink dress, her hands gently resting on her baby bump, and the way her husband looked at her said it all — pride, love, and a quiet sense of awe for the beautiful journey they’re on together.

Kinlee absolutely melted my heart. She was so curious and gentle, already stepping into her new role as big sister with so much sweetness. One of my favorite moments was when she reached up and rested her tiny hand on her mama’s belly. It was pure magic — the kind of moment that makes you stop and realize how precious this season of life truly is.

The evening light in the North Louisiana countryside was soft and golden, wrapping this little family in the most beautiful glow. Surrounded by tall grass and open skies, it felt peaceful — like the world had slowed down just long enough for them to soak in these fleeting moments together.

Maternity sessions like this one remind me why I love what I do. They’re not just about capturing a bump or a beautiful dress — they’re about preserving the love, connection, and hope that fill these in-between moments. This family’s story is growing, and I feel so honored to have been a small part of it.

Soon, their arms will be a little fuller and their hearts even more so. And I can already tell — this baby is coming into a world overflowing with love.

October 28, 2025
A Golden Hour Session at Cross Lake | The Byram Family

There’s something truly magical about lakefront evenings in late summer — the warm glow of the sun, the gentle ripple of the water, and the peace that comes with stepping away from the hustle of everyday life. The Byram family’s session at their beautiful lake house on Cross Lake was nothing short of that kind of magic.

With three kids ranging from 13 to 8 years old, this session was full of personality, laughter, and sweet moments that only a close-knit family can create. From the second I arrived, I could tell this wasn’t just a vacation home — it was a place filled with memories, traditions, and love.

We started on the dock, where the family stood hand-in-hand, barefoot and relaxed, surrounded by the soft lapping of the water and the glow of golden hour. The older kids were naturally helpful and sweet with their youngest sister, who twirled in her pink floral dress, her bow catching the breeze. Mom and Dad stole a few quiet moments together too — moments that always make for some of my favorite frames.

The styling was simple, summery, and perfect for the setting. Soft pastels and whites played beautifully against the lush green trees and the deep blue lake, giving the entire session a light, airy feel that was both timeless and playful.

One of the best parts of this shoot was capturing the little candid moments — the glances, giggles, and spontaneous hugs that remind us what family is all about. There’s no doubt the Byrams have created something truly special at their lake house. It was an honor to help preserve those memories through my lens.

Here’s to barefoot summers, dockside sunsets, and families who know how to soak in every moment.

September 29, 2025
Welcoming Annalise: A Heartwarming In-Home Newborn Session in North Louisiana

There’s something truly magical about newborn photography—capturing those first precious days when everything is new, delicate, and full of promise. Recently, I had the absolute joy of photographing a sweet baby girl named Annalise in the comfort of her North Louisiana home. This session wasn’t just about Annalise; it was a beautiful moment shared with her big sister, Kinlee, whose gentle love and curiosity brought an extra layer of warmth and connection to the day.
A Cozy North Louisiana Welcome
Annalise arrived in the world just days before our session, and her parents wanted to capture the raw, tender moments that only a newborn’s early days can bring. Shooting in their home allowed us to create a relaxed and intimate atmosphere—perfect for newborn photography. From soft sunlight filtering through the windows to the familiar surroundings of her nursery, every detail added to the story we were capturing.
Sisterly Bonds: Kinlee’s Gentle Presence
One of the highlights of the session was the natural bond between Annalise and Kinlee. Kinlee was so gentle and loving with her new baby sister, often holding her tiny hands or simply gazing at her with awe. It was clear from the start that Kinlee was already a proud and protective big sister, and those moments of sibling connection felt truly special.
We captured Kinlee’s sweet smiles, curious eyes, and the tender ways she interacted with Annalise—moments that will surely be cherished forever as these two grow up side by side.
Details and Delicacy
Newborn sessions are all about those small, perfect details: the tiny fingers and toes, the soft curls of baby hair, and the peaceful expressions as Annalise drifted off to sleep. We incorporated soft blankets, gentle wraps, and natural poses that highlighted her delicate features. The quiet and calm of the home allowed Annalise to feel secure and cozy, making it easier to capture those serene moments every parent dreams of preserving.
Why In-Home Sessions Are So Special
Choosing an in-home newborn session brings a unique level of comfort and authenticity. The baby is surrounded by familiar scents and sounds, which helps them stay calm and peaceful. Parents don’t have to worry about packing up or traveling, and the family’s personal space becomes part of the story—making the photographs even more meaningful.
For Annalise and Kinlee’s family, this session was a beautiful way to freeze time and celebrate the beginning of a new chapter, framed by love and the warmth of home.

If you’re welcoming a new little one soon and want to capture these fleeting moments in a way that feels personal and genuine, I’d love to help tell your story through an in-home newborn session. Every baby and family is unique, and your photos should reflect that special connection.
Here’s to the beautiful beginnings—welcome to the world, Annalise! And big hugs to you, Kinlee, for being the best big sister anyone could ask for.

September 27, 2025
Taylor Family | Family Photo Session at Red River National Wildlife Refuge — A Bossier City Gem

As a family photographer, I’m often asked, “Is it too late to do family photos now that our kids are older?” My answer is always the same: *Absolutely not.*

In fact, there’s something really special about photographing families with older kids — the connections are deep, the laughter comes easy, and the memories made feel just a little more intentional.

That was exactly the case during this recent session at the Red River National Wildlife Refuge in Bossier City. With its wide-open spaces, golden light, and quiet walking trails, the Refuge was the perfect backdrop for a relaxed, joyful session with the Taylor family and their sweet boys.

Capturing the Teen Years — With No Pressure

Working with older kids and teens is all about balance. They’re not little anymore, and they’re usually not too eager to pose for photos — and that’s totally okay. That’s why I approach these sessions with a laid-back vibe: no forced smiles, no cheesy poses, just a chance to be together and let the moments unfold naturally.

At this session, we started off with some casual walking shots along one of the trails. I let everyone settle in, joke around, and just enjoy the scenery. Before long, the laughter started to flow — mostly thanks to some sibling teasing (as it should be!) and a few well-timed dad jokes.

Why Red River Wildlife Refuge Works So Well

The Refuge really shines when you want to create a relaxed, scenic session that doesn’t feel too posed or formal. Some of the reasons it’s a great fit for families with older kids:

Scenic Variety: From boardwalks and water views to open fields and forest paths, there’s plenty of room to move and explore without it ever feeling crowded.
Comfortable Pace: Teens appreciate when things don’t drag — and the layout of the Refuge allows for a smooth, easy session that flows naturally.
Golden Hour Perfection: The lighting here just before sunset is incredible. It adds that soft, warm glow that makes every photo feel timeless.

Thinking About Booking a Session with Older Kids?

If your family is in that “teens and beyond” stage, don’t skip the photos. You’ll never regret documenting this season of life — and your kids (even if they roll their eyes now) will be glad to have these memories later.

Here are a few tips for making it great:

Keep it casual: Don’t stress too much about matching outfits. Comfort and personality go a long way.
Let the kids have input: Ask them where they’d like to shoot, or let them help pick a playlist for the ride over. A little buy-in goes a long way.
Make it part of a fun day: Plan dinner after the session, or grab dessert on the way home. Make it feel like a fun family outing — not just a photo shoot.

Ready to Book?

If you’re in the Bossier City or Shreveport area and thinking about scheduling family photos — whether your kids are little, teens, or even grown — I’d love to help you create something meaningful. The Red River Wildlife Refuge is one of my favorite hidden gems, and it’s the perfect place to press pause and celebrate your people.Let’s connect and plan your session!—Courtney DexterFamily & Lifestyle Photographer | Bossier City, LA
📍 Serving Bossier City, Shreveport, and surrounding areas

September 23, 2025
Winters Pregnancy Announcement | North Louisiana Maternity Photographer

Some sessions are more than just photographs — they’re memories wrapped in joy, new beginnings, and the tiniest little heartbeat. This North Louisiana photo session was one of those unforgettable moments as the Winters family celebrated the exciting news of a new baby on the way!

Against a glowing autumn backdrop, this adorable family of three (soon to be four!) radiated warmth, love, and pure happiness. The golden fields and softly setting sun provided the perfect canvas for this joyful chapter in their story.

Big Sister Energy & Even Bigger News

The star of the show? Their sweet little girl proudly rocking a Big Sister sweater and the *biggest* smile you’ve ever seen — with ultrasound photos in hand and excitement all over her face. Her joy was infectious, and she lit up every frame with her giggles and twirls.

Mom and dad stood close, soaking in the moment with quiet smiles and glowing faces. It’s clear that this baby is already so loved.

Session Details We Loved

👧 The Big Sister Reveal: Her sweater said it all — and paired with the printed sonogram, it made the perfect visual announcement.
💞 Genuine Connection: The family’s bond was effortless and emotional, with laughter, snuggles, and real expressions of love.
🍂 Golden Hour Perfection: As the sun dipped low over the fields, it cast a soft, dreamy light that made the whole session feel like a storybook.
📍North Louisiana Charm: With tall grass, warm tones, and a peaceful setting, this location offered both natural beauty and heartfelt simplicity.

Why Announcement Sessions Matter

Bringing a new life into the world is one of the most special things a family can experience — and documenting that announcement allows you to savor the joy, the anticipation, and the love that surrounds a growing family.

Whether it’s your first baby or your fourth, these are the kinds of milestones worth preserving and celebrating. They become part of your legacy — the photos your children will treasure one day.

Expecting Something Special? Let’s Announce It in Style.

From sweet big sibling reveals to creative gender announcements, we love helping families celebrate life’s most exciting moments. Let’s plan a session that captures your unique joy — and create something you’ll cherish forever.

September 20, 2025
Allison and Ellie | North Louisiana Portrait Photographer

There’s something timeless about best friends, wide-open fields, and golden-hour light in the Louisiana countryside — and this photo session with two inseparable cowgirl besties and their beautiful palomino horse was everything country dreams are made of.

📍 Location: North Louisiana
🎀 Vibe: Rustic, heartfelt, and effortlessly Western
🐎 Stars of the show: Two best friends, one gentle horse, and a whole lot of southern soul

Boots, Braids, and Best Friends Forever

Allison and Ellie (our sweet stars of the day) brought their *A-game* to this shoot — not just in style, but in spirit. With windswept curls, ruffled prairie dresses, and classic cowboy hats, they looked straight out of a modern-day Western fairytale.

It wasn’t just a photo session — it was a moment of pure joy, freedom, and friendship.

A Touch of Country Magic

This shoot had all the ingredients of a perfect country story:

🌾 The Setting: Rolling fields and woods kissed with autumn color, under a soft Louisiana sky.
🧡 The Outfits: One in soft sage green, the other in warm floral rust — perfectly complementing the landscape and each other.
🐴 The Horse: Calm, strong, and sweet — like a third best friend in the group.
🤠 The Energy: Laughter, inside jokes, and the kind of bond that only lifelong friends understand.

Every shot captured a different side of their friendship — sweet moments of connection, playful giggles, and quiet strength. It was the kind of session that reminds you just how special it is to grow up in the South, surrounded by land, animals, and people who feel like home.

Why Best Friend Sessions Matter

Photos like these aren’t just for the Instagram feed — they’re the kind you’ll frame in your room, look back on years from now, and remember exactly how it *felt*. These two girls have a friendship worth celebrating, and there’s no better way to do that than a personalized session that reflects who they are and where they come from.

Whether you’re growing up on horseback or just love that rustic Louisiana lifestyle, capturing these moments before life moves on is priceless.

September 17, 2025
Shreveport Louisiana Homecoming | Shreveport Louisiana Senior Photographer

Homecoming is always a night to remember — but for this incredible group of Shreveport high school seniors, it started even before they arrived at the dance. Their evening kicked off with a private photo session at a breathtaking home, and from the moment they stepped onto the patio, the magic unfolded.

With soft golden sunlight streaming through the trees and a pool glistening in the background, this home was the ideal spot for this homecoming photo session. The timeless Southern charm of the setting, combined with the elegant style of each senior, created an effortlessly chic vibe.

The natural beauty of the location added a dreamy, cinematic feel to every shot — the kind of golden-hour glow that only Shreveport can offer in early fall.

This group understood the assignment. From sharp suits and coordinated corsages to glittering dresses in bold jewel tones and pastels, everyone brought their own personality to the frame. Whether they were striking confident poses or laughing between shots, the chemistry and closeness among them were undeniable.

Each senior got their own moment to shine with individual portraits, but the real magic happened in the group shots — the ones that captured the fun, excitement, and shared joy of one of the biggest nights of their senior year.

💐 Floral pops – Bouquets in vibrant pinks, whites, and soft peach added the perfect romantic touch.
🎀 Color coordination – From emerald green to ice blue to cotton candy pink, the palette was stunning and photo-ready.
📸 Natural light perfection – Sunset behind the trees created the soft, flattering glow every photographer dreams of.
👗 Effortless glam – Each outfit reflected the students’ unique style while still feeling cohesive as a group.
🌿 The backdrop – A poolside view with mature trees and lush landscaping brought an upscale but relaxed vibe.

This session wasn’t just about great photos (though we got *plenty* of those) — it was about capturing the energy of a group of friends who have walked the high school journey together and are ready to step into their next chapter.

There was laughter, real joy, and just the right amount of sparkle. It’s sessions like this that remind us why photography matters: because moments pass, but memories like these last forever.

📍 Serving Shreveport, Bossier City, and surrounding areas

September 15, 2025
Rico | Lake Bistineau Photographer

The sweet Rico kids. I’ve been photographing them for a few years now and each time they are just so much fun. Full of life and energy. I love it!

We met at Lake Bistineau on a beautiful fall day. The kiddos were out of school on break so we were able to do a weekday. It can be hard when kids are in school, especially in the fall, because we have to start our session so early. Time change is a fun one. It’s hard to know what I prefer as far as time changes. Starting sessions earlier in the day means I have to find someone to watch my kiddos, but then I still have time to spend with them before bed after I get back home. Summer sessions can start so much later so hubs can watch the kids for me, but the session is close to bed time for all kids involved. It’s a toss up!

Regardless, these kiddos were so much fun to work with. They gave me plenty of idea and I let them lead the way. I’m photographing kids I find it’s really important to let them do the leading. If I try and force anything on then, odds are they will not want to do it! We all know how kids work, right?! Haha!!

We picked lots of flowers, danced like a princess, waved out our imaginary fans from the “stage” (haha!!), and fought imaginary battles with sticks. I love kids. They are just the best!

April 27, 2025
McKissack Family | Shreveport Louisiana Family Photographer

The McKissack family. Aren’t they so cute?!

We met for their session at Lake Bistineau on a very cloudy and gloomy day with every threat of an absolute downpour. Thankfully the rain held off and we’re able to capture some super sweet photos.

One thing I absolutely adore as a family photographer in north Louisiana is letting kids be kids. Letting them have fun. There’s nothing like it. You’ll notice that more and more in my sessions with littles, we have lots and lots of fun!

These kiddos were so sweet and I just loved this session. Thank you McKissack family!!

April 22, 2025
Thorne Family | Lincoln Parish Park Family Session | Ruston Louisiana Family Photographer

The Thorne family. Are they not the absolute cutest?? Seriously I can’t even stand it.

We met for their session at Lincoln Parish Park in Ruston, LA. I love, love this park for sessions. It’s so beautiful!

Their little girlies took a minute to warm up to me but once they did they really let their personalities shine and I just adored that.

After our session we found out that Ragan and my brother were in elementary school together. How fun! It’s a small world, right?!

Thank you Thorne family for such a wonderful evening capturing your sweet, sweet family.

April 15, 2025