Autumn Memories and My Family Joyful Moments in Pictures

As the leaves turn into a vibrant tapestry of oranges, reds, and yellows, a chill settles into the air, reminding me that the holiday season is near. Autumn carries with it a comforting sense of togetherness that I’ve come to hold close. At work, decorations are already in motion, filling the space with a festive spirit that’s contagious.

A cozy living room bathed in natural light from large windows, featuring two stylish armchairs with a colorful throw and cushion. A potted plant adds a touch of greenery, while the view outside hints at a charming urban backdrop.

With Thanksgiving on the horizon, I find myself reflecting on family gatherings — cooking side by side, sharing laughter, and cherishing the moments that truly matter. This year feels even more special, as I’ll soon be returning to Italy to welcome my first nephew. The anticipation ripples through my family, and I can’t wait to capture these treasured beginnings through my lens.

A joyful moment in the kitchen as two people, dressed in red, share a laugh while preparing a meal together. The warm atmosphere suggests a cozy and friendly setting.

This will be only my third Canadian Thanksgiving, and I’m still learning what it means to celebrate here. From a foreigner’s perspective, I find it fascinating how traditions can feel both familiar and new. In Canada, the holiday arrives earlier than in the U.S., giving us a longer pause to reflect before the rush of winter festivities begins.

Last year, I kept a small gratitude list: family, friends, and even the simple joy of a perfect slice of pecan pie. I’ve noticed that for Canadians, these gatherings aren’t only about food but about reinforcing what matters most. A survey from the Canadian Institute of Health Information found that nearly 9 in 10 Canadians view family as the most important aspect of their lives — something I wholeheartedly share.

Taking pictures has always been my way of being part of big family gatherings without needing to be at the centre of them. With a camera in my hands, I can fully participate while also observing every moment in depth—the little gestures, the glances, the details that might otherwise go unnoticed. It’s a way of engaging that feels natural to me: I don’t have to perform or be in the spotlight. Call it my autistic side or simply my way of being, but the camera becomes both a shield and a bridge. While others dive into chatter, I find joy in capturing the essence of the moment, quietly weaving my own presence into the story through every frame.

Recently, I revisited photos from last year's Christmas in Sicily — all of us welcomed by my brother’s partner, joining a shared table for the first time, their traditions blending with ours, the warmth of an extended family filling the room. I’ve shared some of these moments on Stocksy, where I continue to grow my visual storytelling. Curating these images with the help of the editors allow me the time to really look through those moments, while editing carefully, and it's a constant and reminds me how every photograph carries both memory and meaning.

A joyful reunion as a woman with braided hair and vibrant glasses warmly embraces her friend, holding a lush bouquet of greens, in a cozy, sunlit home.

As my trip to Italy approaches, I can almost picture holding my nephew for the first time, camera in hand, ready to frame those quiet, tender moments. Family has always been my anchor, and I believe life’s essence lies in the connections we nurture — whether it’s a grand celebration or a simple dinner together.

This time of year invites us to pause, decorate our homes, light candles, and let the scent of cinnamon drift through the air. More importantly, it’s an invitation to slow down and treasure the company of those we love.

As autumn unfolds, I feel deeply grateful for these experiences — cooking together, sharing laughter, capturing the small details of daily life. They are the stories I carry with me, the ones I’ll continue to tell through my images.

Wherever you are, I hope this season brings you warmth, joy, and meaningful moments worth holding onto.

All my best wishes,

t.

A family poses happily with their dog on a scenic lakeside deck, surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage.