When people hire me to do their photos...

What they're really doing is inviting me into their life.

Not in a "Hi, I put on my good face for you today" sort of way...

But a "This is actually what my family truly looks like" sort of way.

And sometimes, those invitations overwhelm me with responsibility.

The honesty...

Personalities...

And REAL moments contained in these shoots...

They're pretty epic. (Just like this picture.)

And they're just waiting to be snatched up and remembered for a lifetime.

But sometimes being real and honest isn't all laughter and hugs and smiles.

Sometimes being real and honest is hard work... and might even require some tears and tender moments.

But the results - one family's entire colorful essence wrapped up in images...

Are always worth it. :)

Mulder family... thanks for inviting me into your life, and for showing me what your family truly looks like. You guys rock. :)

Today you get to meet my Mexican/Asian nephew.  

His mother is from Minnesota, and his father is from the Dominican Republic...

So we call him the little Mexican (although he has the squinty eyes of an Asian!).

Unfortunately, since his birth last July, I've only gotten to see him a few times...

Hence the lack of pictures.

When I was in MN a few weeks ago, we remedied that. :)

He loves books...

And plaid. Obviously.

And every now and then, his lower lip sneaks out... and it's SO darn cute!!

The cutest part though...

Are those chocolate brown eyes!!

He's pretty much a favorite. :)