There are people who cross our paths that affect us in one way or another.  It could be small or impact us in big ways.  When my oldest son started roller hockey, we were nervous as this was all new to us.  The league president was so warm and welcoming.  With my husband volunteering as an assistant coach, then as a coach and eventually on the board, we got to know her and her family.  We made some special memories together like cheering for our LA Kings at Dodger Stadium!

I’ve photographed her kids at roller hockey and had the honor of photographing her families for special anniversary gifts.

But our most recent shoot, I think, will stay with me always.  About 6 weeks after we moved to Vegas, I received a text asking when I’d be back again for shoots.  She needed someone sooner.  I hated to send her a referral, but after a few questions to determine who would be best suited for her she called me to tell me that she had cancer.  She needed family photos before the chemo took her hair “just in case”.  There was absolutely NO WAY I could refer her to anyone else.  I’m so honored that she trusted me for such an important shoot.

We found beauty in the tender moments as we worked through the sadness.

This is honestly one of my favorite images ever.  Leave it to a teenage son to add some levity by being caught by his mom low-key flipping the bird.  He even got his sister to smile!

Seriously, LOVE.THESE.PEOPLE.

Thank you so much for reminding me of the importance of family portraiture.  Congratulations on completing the first part of your journey and I hope the next phase goes much smoother!  We love you so much!