As with every photo shoot, I always begin with a little bit of nerves.

Get everyone to look at the camera (at least once), don’t fall over as I walk backwards, make sure the camera works properly… the list of thoughts that occupy my brain goes on.

But then I remember that these people are literally my family. (Do we look like sisters?)

And you can’t get mad at someone when the photos are free. ;)

So about ten minutes in, I always relax a bit and try a bunch of new things.

Like… Let’s take cute pictures of mom and dad… and then tackle them into the ground.

Because why have family if they can’t be your guinea pigs??

Becky, I lost track after 10 years of experimenting with your family. Thanks for letting me take pictures with and OF you guys again and again and again. Love you so much!! :)

Year after year, I get to see some of my favorite families.

The kids grow up, personalities change, and little babies start walking and talking!

It honestly truly never gets boring.

Every time I think I have a family figured out, they grow and change in such new ways…

They always keep me on my toes!

It’s both deeply rewarding and incredibly challenging.

And it often reminds me to never take this precious work for granted.

Mike and Chris - YAY! Our favorite day of the year came and went and IT WASN’T HOT! Thanks for always being such enthusiastic participants in our yearly shoots and for keeping me on my toes with all five kiddos! I can’t get enough of your sweet family. Love you guys!!