It hardly seems like a year has passed since I last captured Valerie + Todd’s beautiful family. Just like last year, I met them at Mercersburg Academy. But, this year, they included their extended family in the session. Joining them were Valerie’s parents Jo Anne + Don, brother Greg with his wife Anne and their girls Julia + Caroline, and youngest brother Michael.  Capturing this group and preserving their family legacy was a blast. 

From Valerie: Since we are all spread out a bit, family time is important when we are able to see each other. We all love to travel and spend time outdoors. My dad and brothers are building a cabin to “hunt” at (even though I think it’s mostly to just get away and be one with nature) that they LOVE to talk about. 

Mercersburg Academy was just as beautiful as I remember. Their grounds still have the same perfect lighting that reflects off the stone buildings and even though we were on the same property, we utilized different areas to add variety to their session. I know the photos from this year’s session with hang beautifully next to the images from last year.

From Valerie: My dad and mom are both recent retirees so they are still acclimating but between the cabin and my mom’s volunteering, they stay busy. Greg is an attorney and Anne (who used to be an attorney) is in the process of going back to school for a teaching degree in middle school education. They are busy with their two girls, school and their studies/work. Michael hiked half of the Appalachian Trail last year right before getting injured and is going to attempt to finish it within the next year. He lovestraveling the world and living life to the fullest. We are all very independent, busy and focused on living life to the fullest – packing as much living in as we can!

Being a photographer herself, Valerie always does an amazing job coordinating her family’s outfits. Last year, she dressed Ryleigh in the most adorable ruffle hem sweater that I wish came in my size. Her outfit this year did not disappoint either. She was once again rocking the cutest look that I wished I could add to my closet! Ryleigh is certainly following in her mom’s footsteps with her photography talent. During our session, she was requesting specific photos and even asked if she could take some behind the scenes photos of me taking pictures. Of course, I said yes!

Valerie + Todd, it was so fun meeting everyone and seeing how your family all interacts with each other – shoes optional ;). I loved meeting your extended family and I still can’t get over what a budding photographer Ryleigh is becoming. I think you have a new assistant on your hands, Valerie!

-xo-

Jamie