Sandy Bottom Park Family Session | Hampton Roads Family Photographer | The Mathews Family

Sandy Bottom Park Family Session | Hampton Roads Family Photographer | The Mathews Family

I just love it when a client returns and I get to see them through different phases in their lives! Last year I got to photograph Dawn and her boys, knowing she was expecting to add some pink to the family soon. When I met them in Sandy Bottom Park, I finally got to say hi to their adorable little Ginny Bell. And oh what a sweetie she is!

I love this beautiful little family of four, and I especially love that giant pink bow on their little girl's head. When I think of photographing families, this is what it's all about - seeing growth, transition, seeing new little lives added, and seeing young kids grow up and get to be so big. Jesse and Dawn - I'm so thankful that you've allowed me into your lives on these few occasions! I can't wait to see all four of you again next year :)

Bennett's Creek Park Family Session | Suffolk Family Photographer | The Brynilsden Family

Bennett's Creek Park Family Session | Suffolk Family Photographer | The Brynilsden Family

I cannot believe that it's been nearly a year since the first day I met this family and their newest little one. When Dianne asked about having four family sessions in one year, I was so excited for the chance to build a relationship with this family beyond spending a few hours with them one time. It has been a joy and privilege to see them so many times, and it's incredible to watch Ethan and Oliver grow so much in a year.

Dianne always puts a creative spin on their sessions, and for this last time together she brought milk and donuts to celebrate Oliver's first birthday. After time spent playing and walking (a hard job for a one-year-old!) the boys were excited to dig into the treats - and they made for the most adorable pictures yet!

Noland Trail Family Portraits | Newport News Family Photographer | Scott, Dianne, Ethan, & Oliver

Noland Trail Family Portraits | Newport News Family Photographer | Scott, Dianne, Ethan, & Oliver

One of the biggest joys in my year so far has been meeting this family because I've gotten to spend so much time with them. I wasn't sure how it would look to have four sessions with the same family in one year, but so far it's been amazing. Not only have the boys (especially Oliver!) changed so much over the last few months, but Scott and Dianne bring creativity and fun elements to each and every session.

This time, they brought a train, kites, and tons of other toys so they could have fun family playtime to keep the boys happy and occupied. I LOVED this not only because it accomplished their purpose, but it also added such a natural element that you just can't get in posed family portraits. Of course, we walked The Noland Trail in Newport News for some time and got great pictures to hang on the walls in their home, but towards the end I captured how the family actually is when I'm not there - and that's what I love.