Spring Minis at He Will Farm – A Place Full of Heart in Waxhaw, NC

This spring, we spent a golden afternoon at He Will Farm in Waxhaw, photographing five sweet families for our Spring Mini Sessions. From the minute we pulled up the gravel drive, we knew this place was special.

Owned by Pam and Tom Willi, He Will Farm has been their family’s home for over 40 years — and you can feel that legacy the moment you step onto the land. It’s not just the barn (which they’ve lovingly renovated into a gathering space), or the fields dotted with goats, horses, and chickens. It’s the sense of peace. Of joy. Of belonging.

That’s what made this location such a dream — not just for family photos, but for something more. With space for up to 50 guests, He Will Farm is now welcoming small gatherings like micro weddings, showers, and celebrations. And honestly? It’s perfect for it. Between the cozy barn, wide open sky, and the occasional horse wandering by your ceremony, it’s like stepping into a slower, sweeter rhythm for a day.

We loved photographing here — not just because it’s beautiful (which it is), but because it felt like home. And for the couples we serve — ones who care about faith, family, and intentional celebration — we think He Will Farm might feel like home to you, too.

—

Photos by Austin & Kiara – Two Become One

Venue: He Will Farm | Waxhaw, NC

Best Budget Lens for Beginner Photographers

In the world of family portrait photography, having the right equipment is essential to capture those cherished moments in a way that makes them last forever. In this review, we'll explore the features, cost, and reliability of the Sony 50mm 1.8 FE lens. I'll also share my personal experience as a family portrait photographer, highlighting how this affordable lens has allowed me to capture professional-quality content. Along the way, I'll provide behind-the-scenes shots, product images, and the stunning results from an actual family photo session.

Features:

1. Outstanding Bokeh: The Sony 50mm 1.8 FE lens boasts a wide aperture of f/1.8, which means it excels at creating that beautiful background blur known as bokeh. This feature ensures that your family portraits have a professional and artistic quality, drawing attention to your subjects.

2. Crisp Image Quality: The lens delivers impressive image quality with sharpness and clarity, capturing the subtle details that bring your family portraits to life. The aspherical element in the lens helps reduce aberrations and distortion, ensuring that your subjects look their best.

3. Lightweight and Compact: Weighing in at just 186 grams, this lens is exceptionally lightweight and compact. It's a perfect choice for family photographers who are on the go and need to capture candid moments effortlessly. Its compact size allows for easy storage and transportation.

4. Fast Autofocus: The lens features a fast and accurate autofocus system, which is crucial for family portrait photography. It ensures you can quickly and reliably capture those candid smiles and spontaneous moments.

5. Affordable Pricing: One of the most attractive aspects of this lens is its affordability. You don't need to break the bank to acquire a high-quality lens. This accessibility is especially important for those starting in family portrait photography or for those looking for a budget-friendly addition to their lens collection.

My Experience:

As a family portrait photographer, I've found the Sony 50mm 1.8 FE lens to be a game-changer. Its affordability allowed me to expand my lens collection without emptying my wallet. Whether I'm capturing candid shots during a family session or meticulously planned product images for my website, this lens consistently performs.

But the real proof is in the photos:

In conclusion, the Sony 50mm 1.8 FE lens is an excellent investment for family portrait photographers. Its remarkable features, affordable price, and reliability make it a top choice for both newcomers and seasoned professionals in the field. With this lens in my arsenal, I've been able to create beautiful, lasting memories for countless families while growing my photography business.

If you're looking for an affordable lens that can help you take your family portrait photography to the next level, the Sony 50mm 1.8 FE lens should be at the top of your list. It's the lens that proves you don't need to compromise on quality to stay within your budget.

FAQ -

1. Is the Sony 50mm 1.8 FE lens full frame?

• Yes, the Sony 50mm 1.8 FE lens is designed for full-frame cameras, making it an ideal choice for capturing family portraits with superb quality and depth of field.

2. Is it the best affordable portrait lens for Canon cameras?

• While the Sony 50mm 1.8 FE lens is designed for Sony cameras, it's essential to note that Canon users have their own options, such as the Canon 50mm f/1.8 lens. The "best" lens can vary depending on your specific camera model and personal preferences. If you're a Canon user, you might want to explore Canon's 50mm f/1.8 options as an affordable choice for portrait photography.

3. Which lens is best for portrait photography?

• The best lens for portrait photography can depend on various factors, including your camera system, budget, and style. The Sony 50mm 1.8 FE lens is an excellent choice for Sony users due to its affordability and impressive quality. Other popular options include 85mm and 35mm prime lenses, which offer a range of creative possibilities. Ultimately, the "best" lens for portrait photography is the one that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.