Adoption Mini Sessions, Part 2 // Sandy Bottom Park, Hampton Photographer

I woke up the morning of my second mini sessions, a little worried about what the day would bring. It had already started sprinkling, and there was the chance of rain the whole day. While I don't mind braving a little wet and cold to take pictures, I truly wanted the experience to be wonderful for each of my families and couples that were coming that day.

Despite the freezing wind and threatening clouds, the rain held off until after the very last mini session! The overcast skies made the fall colors pop, and the temperature didn't stop us all from having so much fun. There are a few sessions that are surprises, so I can't share them yet, but I wanted to share the ones that I could - they were so much fun, and made standing outside for a few hours more than worth it!

To all the families and couples who came out for mini sessions, especially on such a cold, almost-rainy day, thank you isn't enough. I'm truly grateful for your support and your spirit. You make my job an easy one, and I'm so thankful for each one of you. I hope these pictures carry across the miles in your Christmas cards, and bring joy to all your friends and family!

James and Kayla, and their feisty huskies Cosmo and Paisley

Daniel and Elizabeth, with their precious kids Hunter and Aiden, found me through a mutual friend - and I'm so glad they did!

Ross and Emily came all the way from Pennsylvania to visit family, and wanted their portraits taken while they were here with their 3 kids!

Toby and Christi, singers who tour all up and down the East Coast and beyond, came with their amazingly talented kids, Jerrod and Jewel.

...and a few more to come as I'm allowed to share them!

Adoption Mini Sessions, Part 1 // Smithfield, Virginia Family Photographer

Last weekend was one to remember! On the most gorgeous day in October I could've hoped for, ten families met me to take pictures as they supported our adoption. There were families of all ages and sizes - from a couple barely a year into marriage, to a family of six, to a whole bunch of cute dogs, the variety of people from all stages and walks of life was incredible.

I am so amazed that there was such an incredible response to our announcement, and to the mini sessions themselves! I remember right before I hit publish on my blog, wondering aloud to Nathan if ANYONE would sign up. And here I am, with 10 down and 9 more to go this weekend, blown away by the love people have shown us.

So I hope I've done justice to these families who have become a part of our story! It's hard to choose just 5 or 10 images to send, let alone one or two from the blog, but I've narrowed it down to my absolutely favorites. The only thing more exciting than this is that I'll have even more to share next week!

Holly from Just Dandy Events // East Beach, Norfolk Photographer

I honestly can't remember how I first met Holly from Just Dandy Events, but I am so glad I did! We have been able to get coffee together and just get to know each other, so I thought this would be the perfect opportunity for her to have some professional headshots taken!

Most of the time, headshots are a little more stiff and formal - but not with Holly. Her laughter is absolutely infectious, and her smile is gorgeous. We had so much fun walking around the little neighborhoods of East Beach in Norfolk (can you tell I love this place?) and getting to know each other a little better.

Holly is an amazing wedding coordinator with a business growing right here in Hampton Roads. I love supporting local vendors, and Holly is definitely a gem! If you're thinking about hiring a day-of coordinator, or someone to help you plan your whole wedding from beginning to end, she's your girl.

I'll let Holly reveal most of these pictures to you, but here are just a few of the moments I was able to capture!