So, I have tried to write this post 4 times. No kidding. It has been on my heart, and I am having the hardest time getting it down.
When I started in photography, a number of years ago, I loved it. I mean, LOVED it. I took pictures all the time. Of anything. But mostly of my kids. We photograph what we love the most, and for any momma, that would mean lots and lots of pictures of your kids.
And I still love it. I mean LOVE it.
And I love taking picture of my kids. Like most photographer mommas, our kids are our favorite subjects. I know what to say to them, they are very well trained (ha!) and I usually can see the image before I take it with them. Being photographer's kids, with years of mom behind the lens, has made my little lovies almost instruction-less when I take their pictures. They pretty much pose themselves, know little cues, and know that them more fun they have, the faster we will be. Sometimes a session lasts 15 minutes.
So, I can't imagine if I couldn't. If I couldn't take pictures of my kids.
Or it physically hurt to take pictures.
How much would that just stink? Your right- it would really flat out suck
Well, that is exactly what happened to my beautiful friend, a fellow photographer. We are friends that swap stories, and props, and have little girls that are sweet little buddies.
One day, for my friend, taking pictures hurt. It hurt. And it hurt bad.
It hurt so much, that she asked me if it was OK if she gave some of her clients my number for her Christmas season last year. Knowing all too well that Christmas season is a photographer's busiest season, I knew that her back pain was bad. At that time, her back was just hurting tremendously and the doctors were still trying to figure out what was wrong. Rounds of steroid injections, medications, therapy, all were not seeming to work. So, more doctors, more tests, and more waiting.
And waiting.
And then news.
That news.
Yes, that news.
My heart broke. Along with an army of friends and family.
But, she is strong. She is amazing. And she is beating it.
It is one of those things you are in awe of- her courage. And her grace. She is one of the most kind hearted people I have met. And her family is a pillar of strength. And it is an army of prayer. I am just honored to call this beautiful lady my friend.
Knowing that this Christmas season was upon us, (and I told you about photographing your kids when you are a photographer), I didn't want her to not get pictures of her little clan.
So, I got to work with her beautiful and sweet Family. And photographing other photographer's kids- I LOVED it. Like I said, almost instruction-less.
And so fun! I literally had the best time with her 4. Yes, that is not a typo, 4 beautiful kids. My window of light almost closed. Almost.
First up, is her little beauty. She just shines. And that dimple.
Goodness.


And the little boy. How adorable is this little guy?
The hat was perfect.


And little bit. What a little ham. Full, I mean, full of personality.
She had us laughing and being silly.

Her mom said she winks.
Winks fast. She said to try and catch it.

Not to mention she is a champ at peek-a boo.

And her oldest.
Middle school.
So polite and handsome.


Literally, I could have photographed them all day.

Such a beautiful family. And so much love.

Did I mention someone was hamming it up for me?
No names though.

These kids look like they belong on a magazine.
Just beautiful.

As we walked from spot to spot, mom and dad were always holding hands.
Love the love.
Love you dear Jenna.
You got this momma.