Seeing people

Sometimes, when I photograph people, I see such a deep part of their soul. I was lucky enough to have that experience with the two young ladies I photographed last weekend. Bekah is just as sweet and perky and cute as could be. I photographed her for 3.5 hours. She was a trooper and WOW, did we get some amazing shots. Then there was Alexis, who I met right after she turned 12. I love her so, so much. She is truly just a wonderful, amazing, smart girl. It was so tender realizing I was photographing her before she leaves this summer for college. It was overwhelming. Then, there was baby Eli. I met him when he was the teeniest little 5 pound newborn. He and I have met every 3 months to document his amazing growth in the last year. When I photograph, I set my focus points on "single" and toggle to the eyes, expose the skin, and then pain-stakingly focus on the eyes. This takes a few seconds, and all the while, I am looking right into the eyes of my subject. Sometimes, I feel a connection. It was that exact case with all three shoots I did this weekend. It is a very humbling feeling to see someone like that. That I got to do that three times... just incredible.

To Bekah- I wish great success and love.  I wish you the most joy as you earn your RN.

To Alexis, I thank you for loving me, being my main encourager to start a photography business.  For insisting on **ME** for your prom photos, and now your senior photos.  Thank you for loving my children like they were your siblings.  Thank you for loving unicorns and princesses and butterflies.  Thank you for your kindness.  I miss your chatter, you know.  You are so dear to me.  I wish you well as you decide on a college.  You have choices.  You are so lucky- choose well, my sweet.

To Eli, holding you this weekend and kissing your cheeks brought me joy.  Hearing your laugh made me laugh.  Seeing you so excited to make your mommy happy when she cheered you on (as you smashed your cake) showed me how much you love your mom.  You are a special one, Eli.  I am so honored to have been your photographer for your first year.  I hope I still get to see you lots.

As the weekend drew closed, I saw in my rear-view mirror glory.  I turned around, parked my car, and took off on foot to capture the beauty that was this incredible sunset.  It left me hopeful and breathless.  I felt like it was just for me.  I needed that sunset.