Fall Family Photography with the Mendez Family in Duke Forest

The Family Story: There’s nothing quite like capturing a family’s journey over the years, and photographing the Mendez family each year has become such a special tradition. Our latest session at Duke Forest was filled with vibrant autumn colors, cozy moments, and the unmistakable warmth this family brings to every shoot. Each time I photograph them, I’m reminded of just how kind and genuine they are, which makes every session not only beautiful but truly meaningful.

Here’s a look at some of my favorite moments with this amazing family in the heart of Duke Forest!

The Place: Their family home in Duke Forest, Durham, North Carolina

Parents and Two Children Sitting and Smiling on Concrete Steps at Duke Forest
Family of Four sitting on steps outside
Father with son and daughter sitting on steps outside
Father sitting with two kids outside on concrete steps at Duke Forest
Mom standing inside house with son and daughter hugging her leg
Young Girl and Brother Standing on Path Outside
Mom, son, and daughter laughing and dancing inside house
Mom, dad, daughter, and son walking through woods along stairs in Duke Forest
Family of Four Portrait Outside in Duke Forest Durham NC
Portrait of Family of Four in Front of Rock Wall and Bush
Family of Four on Walk in Duke Forest
Family of Four Walking Along Path in Duke Forest
Family of Four Holding Hands Walking Away from Camera down Wooded Path
Kids playing behind curtains inside house
Dad smiling at daughter holding son
Mom dancing with young daughter inside house in sunlight
Mom cradling daughter's face inside in sunlight
Closeup of young girls pink gauze dress
Father helping young son put on shoes inside
Father playing on floor with kids
Mom sitting on screened porch with young daughter
Family of Four sitting on carpet inside
Mom smiling while young children give her a hug
Dad hugging young daughter outside
Dad and young daughter laughing and playing outside
Dad sitting on stairs with young kids
Dad hugging young daughter
Mom sitting on stairs with young kids
Family of four smiling at each other

Hello there and thank you for stopping by! I’m Katrina, the heartbeat behind Fifty Two Hundred Photo + Film, in Durham, North Carolina. I specialize in capturing meaningful and precious memories for remarkable families in North Carolina. I hope you enjoyed this story I shared today and if you are interested in learning more about The Time Capsule membership, or let’s connect. Not quite ready to connect, but you would like to follow along the journey? Follow me on Instagram and let’s be friends!

Katrina is a family photographer and family filmmaker in Durham, North Carolina. She offers lifestyle newborn photography, family photography and family videography which focuses on capturing authentic and honest moments for families. Her clients love that not only do they get digital files from their session but artwork to display in their home. She is happy to custom albums so you can revisit your favorite memories for years to come! Be sure to check out the Adobe partnership to see Katrina sharing her knowledge on capturing magical light to highlight the essence of each family. 

Want an easy way to make something beautiful out of all your phone photos and videos? Learn more about the Time Capsule Membership here. 

katrina williams