Lancaster Family Photography: A Winter Session in the Evergreens at Roland Park with the Smith Family

A winter family photo session in the evergreens at Roland Park in Akron, PA by Melissa Engle Photography

It’s crazy to realize that I’ve been living in Lancaster for fifteen years now and started my photography business ten years ago! Over the years I have become accustomed to my favorite locations for taking photos and I dare say a little too comfortable with my go-to spots. The forest of pine trees at Roland Park in Akron never really came across my radar as a potential location until now. It has a similar look to the pine forest at Overlook Park but is much more dense and way less popular for photographers (fingers crossed it stays that way!)

I’m so glad I ventured out to this beautiful evergreen forest earlier this summer for a maternity session because it really is a lovely spot. In the summer time you have to watch out for poison ivy, but in the winter there is a nice ground cover of English ivy that brings a lush fairytale vibe to this location. I actually worked in Akron for four years and had been to this park numerous times but never really explored the pine forest.

I have been photographing Bill and Rhianna since they got engaged a handful of years ago and now they have 3 beautiful, active children that are always a delight to photograph. I can not get over how adorable their little girl is, and how much her older brothers adore and care for her. The light was just perfect on this November morning as we walked through the forest.

Melissa Engle Photography offers portrait, family and lifestyle photography in Lancaster, York and Harrisburg PA. Please contact me if you would like to make some photo magic together!