Miracles Happen | California Travel Sessions

When E messaged me regarding her family having a session in California, I was dismayed that I was completely out of time slots. She shared her story. A story of strength. A story of love and faith. I am of the mind that all life is miraculous, all children a blessing but learning of E’s story really touched me in such a profound way. I knew I had to work with her. You see, she almost lost her own life while bringing her youngest beautiful girl into this world. Such a loss it would have been on every level and to meet her and actually get to hug her… She is truly one of a kind.

To get to photograph her family is an honor.

And this woman is truly one of the most beautiful souls I have ever worked with. There is a quiet strength, a peace there. I wish she lived closer. I say that often about many of my clients but I know we would be so close if she did. She has this aura all around her of love and all that is good. It just shines out of her family, her children and the love that her husband so obviously holds for her.

Sweet, Shy and Silly | California Travel Sessions

I have been pretty blessed in the awesome client department. Not because they are exceptionally stylish, or trendy or that they fit a certain demographic. I mean, sometimes they do that, sure. Most of the time though they are just all around wonderful, down to earth… GOOD people and that is more than I could ever ask for. This is also why I find myself coming away from sessions with new friends. These connections. These personalities. They stay with me well after we are done. A huge amount of my clients are photographers as well and I count this largely as one of the most amazing compliments. These people that capture moments and memories for others are entrusting me with their own.

Often I don’t want to stop shooting. I get lost in the moment and my sessions can truly be endless if I had my way. Time does fly when you are enjoying yourself. So when I have a client that is all about the there and now. When they let me not just photograph them, but try to get these moments.. even the quietest ones, it makes my heart fit to burst. Real emotion is always key for me. Whether that child is a bit silly or a bit shy. Whether they are bouncing from foot to foot and running and jumping or sitting and observing and even just being a bit wary, they are being themselves. Even the shyest of child comes out of their sweet little shell normally, so I also love the progression from the start to the end. When I host full sessions this is also why I try not to time them. My time is spent soaking up the company of my client friends and not staring at the clock on my iPhone. They have me a million percent. Unfortunately travel sessions are usually limited to an hour. I get everything we need and then some, but I am always sad to leave at the end.

This session was one of those.

We got off to a little bit of a later start, but a good majority of my sessions are spent gaining trust. Connecting with the very people I am trying to evoke emotion from. I made sure to spend just as much time as I could doing that. I don’t like to push. I like to nurture. I want my images to be genuine.

It’s a good life.

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