Remember that ONE NICE DAY we had last week? Yeah, it's been a cold Spring I know. However, we got lucky with this adorable little boys outdoor portraits to commemorate his turning one. A week before wedding season begins for me, I was able to sneak in this fun session.

These photos were taken at Coffee Creek Park in Chesterton, Indiana. A place I'm familiar with from many engagement sessions, outdoor weddings and other children's portrait shoots. I think it was a perfect location for a curious one year old boy. Here's a moment where he discovers grass for the very first time. Imagine that - the first time running around outdoors - ever!! We documented it all. A great future gift to him from his wonderful parents.

If there is one phrase to describe Matthew, it would be HAPPY BOY!! He was all smiles the whole time with a great sense of wonderment...

One of the ideas I had in mind was to go beyond straight portraits. I wanted to place the little guy into a scene with very LARGE PIECES of nature. Hence this photo of Matthew relaxing next to a fallen tree...

- click image to enlarge -

In this sunset photo, the adorable little boy seems to be looking toward the future on this his first birthday. Either that or the headlights of the passing cars are fascinating!! Let's go with the former...

- click images to enlarge -

Was Matthew posing for portraits in the following photos? Nah, it's all about capturing the right moment. Having some dog walkers directly behind me didn't hurt either...

So there you have it, Matthew's One Year Portraits - innocent and adorable. Hang on to that towel for as long as you can Matt!!