It’s a special treat when families come back to me year after year to update their family photos and document the changing seasons of their lives. I don’t get to photograph a lot of families through the busy wedding season, but this session reminded me how much I love and cherish the opportunity to document the unique connection within a family.

As a mommy, my heart seeks real moments during a family session. Not necessarily the perfectly posed image where everyone is looking at the camera (I always want that shot, too!) but those quick, authentic interactions that glimmer with light and love and unfold naturally. Like Marek grabbing his mom’s hand in both of his, or giving her lessons on how to skip rocks across the lake. You don’t have to spend much time with him to know that his mommy is everything to him. And the way Chris almost literally melted into a puddle when his sweet little girl snuggled up into his lap and planted a tender kiss on his cheek. He is her hero.

Chris & Chantale, thank you for navigating the mud and climbing trees without hesitation, for sharing your sweet little ones with me, and for trusting me to document your family once again!