Today, I am so happy to share a family session that meant so much to me and truly reminded me why I do what I do!

Earlier this year, Brittany reached out to me about scheduling a family session with her parents, siblings, niece and nephews, and grandfather. I was elated to hear from her and start planning!

During my time at Illinois College, I met Brittany and we became acquaintances. In our time since graduating from Illinois College, I have loved keeping up with her via social media, and I love following her puppy Griffey, too (seriously go see all of the cuteness over at @griffthepup)! Fun fact… Griffey was such a gentleman and sent a little gift with his momma to give to our puppy #georgieannevans! OMG so stinking cute!

As Brittany and I chatted back and forth planning this session, my excitement grew because I had already come to know Brittany as a kind, compassionate person. It made me even more excited to meet her family members and photograph them!

At this session, the family was flexible, kind, and generous towards me – greeting me with hugs and hellos and saying their goodbyes with hugs and hopes of seeing each other again sometime soon! I left this session feeling overwhelmingly thankful for such amazing people to come into my life. This is my job… EEEK! 

From that moment on and while processing the session images, I was quickly reminded why I do what I do. This session encompasses generations and lifetimes of stories, love, and a growing family. It brought together family members ranging in age from 3 years old to 85 years old. These photos are part of this family’s legacy and memories! Goodness, how meaningful it is to me to have played a part in this!

The Staakes – Thank you from the bottom of my heart for welcoming me with open arms into an afternoon with your sweet family. I loved getting to know all of you, and these images truly show your joy and love of family!