The Freeman Family // Fort Monroe Family Photographer

I have known the Freemans for years, ever since I first moved to Hampton Roads. It's amazing to watch people grow up and take big steps in their lives, and Richard is about to head off to college! We headed over to beautiful Fort Monroe to commemorate this time in their family's journey. It was a windy day by the water, but all four of them made it into a fun evening, creating lasting memories during our session.

From the fortifications to the historic homes and giant trees, the scenery was perfect both for family portraits and a few pictures of the graduating senior. The Freeman's rich military history fit the location so well - we never ran out of places for pictures, or beautiful areas that reminded us of the military presence in the area!

I'm grateful to have lived somewhere long enough to have the privilege of watching people's lives change and move as the years go by. And I'm thankful for evenings like this, where we can capture forever one beautiful moment in a family's life as they transition from one big adventure to the next. To the Freemans - thanks so much for letting me be part of this special time!

Scott, Dianne, Ethan, and Oliver // Smithfield Family Photographer

Dianne first sent me an email months ago, before Oliver was even born. She wanted to document not just his first year of life, but the year their family would grow and get to know their newest addition. We waited patiently for a day when we could spend time together, to capture the memories that are already being made in their growing family.

That Saturday morning was chilly, but Scott and Dianne brought a sweet spirit and so much love to the session. It also helped that she packed some hot chocolate to warm them up after a few hours in the cold. Ethan is a lively little boy, full of personality and energy, whereas Oliver is on the quieter side. Though he is still so young, he is proving to be a calm little boy, and was a joy to be with.

Scott and Dianne, thanks for being such great sports in the freezing cold - I could tell by the way you looked at each other that you are the best of partners and friends. I can't wait to spend even more time with your whole family this year, as you navigate being parents for a second time. Thanks for choosing me to be your photographer!

And to finish it all off, they broke out some hot chocolate at the end! I was tempted to steal some myself ;)

I think Ethan could have stayed there all day...

Mark, Becky, and Stuart // Newport News Family Photographer

When I first started talking to Becky about their family portraits, she was all about having beautiful LEAVES in their pictures! Mark and Becky came from San Diego, where I hear the temperature is the same 75 degrees year-round, so she wanted to show off some of the beautiful fall colors here in Virginia. And I think we accomplished that goal!

Stuart is special to me, because he is almost exactly the same age as my niece. He's in a very fun stage, and just loves his mom and dad. He couldn't have looked more adorable in his little plaid shirt, and we spent the day roaming the Noland Trail while he discovered some new and exciting places to explore.

Mark and Becky, thanks for letting me tag along during your family time! And thanks for picking out some of the best outfits I've seen this year :) You three make such a wonderful family, and I can only hope that the pictures you now have reflect the joy that is there whenever you are all together.