There are families who I work with that are just downright refreshing. 

They don't run from who they know their family to be... 

They embrace the awkwardness, or the discomfort, or the lack of "Pinterest-worthy" perfection. 

And it gives me such freedom. 

For this particular photo shoot, I made sure to let the boys know that since I normally work with little kids, I was bound to accidentallytreat them like 4 year olds at some point.

But it turns out, they didn't mind at all. :) 

Paul and Sarah, thank you SO much for showing up wholeheartedly with your family and giving me such creative freedom with your photos. It was so fun to catch up after so many years and I'm so grateful for the chance to work with you again! :) 

Here's the funny thing about family photos. 

We tend to value them the most when our kids are young. Growing, changing, never staying still for more than two seconds at a time. 

We make time for them, plan photo sessions around big birthdays and milestones, and celebrate each new month. 

Then the years pass by and the kids don't change as much. Or as quickly. 

We look at the lovely pre-teen or teenagers in front of us and imagine their groans of despair if we mention taking photos or scheduling a shoot. So we don't. We let it slide. 

But this. This?? This is what you're missing. 

You need these memories. 

Your pre-teens and teenagers grow up just as quickly as your little bitty babies. And they deserve to be remembered too. 

Rachel (and Jeremy!) - we did it again! :) I'm so so thankful for the chance to photograph your family countless times over the last decade. Who would've thought we'd be still going at it so many years later? Thanks for allowing me the chance to watch your itty bitty babies grow up to be lovely mini adults. Love you guys so much!!