Life isn’t always perfect. Things don’t always go as planned and sometimes the every day gets messy. But, that’s what makes me love what I do and what lifestyle photography provides to my clients even more. Often times we’re so caught up in trying to get all the kids dressed, make sure they’re fed and on time to activities or school, we miss the little moments that down the road will mean so much. Photography allows those sweet gestures to be captured and show that even in the midst of the crazy, this life is incredibly beautiful!

I met Chelly + Michael and their three little ones at Gettysburg College for updated family photos. They haven’t had professional family photos taken since before their twins were born three years ago and they were excited to finally have new photos as a family of five. But, as I know so well, getting three little ones to all smile for the camera at once can be a challenge. 

When working with little ones, the best photos happen when they’re most comfortable. The Gettysburg College campus is full of open spaces perfect for letting little ones run around and have fun. Jameson and Abigail loved being able to play with each other for the majority of our session allowing me to capture their little personalities. We even got Ben, who wasn’t into getting his photos taken that day, in on the fun and ended with having races.  I mean – we all have off days, so why aren’t kids allowed to have them too?

From Chelly: Having three kids less than two years apart certainly has its challenges, and lots of them!  But one thing is for sure…there is never a dull moment when these three are around. They each contribute something unique to our family dynamic. Benjamin, 4, is smart & observant, and -apparently- doesn’t like his picture taken! Jameson, 3, is kind, sweet, and thoughtful. An old soul, as they say. Abigail, 3, is a firecracker! She doesn’t miss a thing and is full of life. We’re so thankful to have you capture a moment in time so we can look back and fondly remember this crazy season of life!

Chelly + Michael joined in on with everyone, running, dancing, tickling and just plain loving on their family. Some of the sweetest moments from the day happened in the spontaneity like capturing Jameson holding onto Chelly’s finger while they played, the bond between Michael and Ben and Abby’s blonde hair bouncing in the air as she jumped around. These are the things they will want to remember down the road that can only be captured in a lifestyle photography setting and it made my heart so happy I was able to preserve this phase of life for them. 

Chelly + Michael, I know this day didn’t go as planned and my heart shares the struggle it can be raising three little ones, but you two are doing such an amazing job! The love and patience you show each of your little loves is something I stood back and admired on our session day. I hope when you look at these you truly see the love for your family is written all over your faces.

-xo-

Jamie