Portraits as a Legacy

I pulled out my oldest archive of images this morning, searching for the first images that I ever took of Maddie and her family. I was surprised to realize it had been over ten years since Connie had asked me to photograph her daughters.  Little did I know that this would start the seed for what is my photography business today.  I am grateful for that giant leap of faith Connie took with me, as my first paying client.  Her family is not only integral to my business but they are part of a large and supportive Army family that we hold dear.  They are intertwined with our own legacy in so many ways.  It was an honor to photograph Maddie’s senior session and a bit emotional for all of us.  

A Surprise Visit

The month before Maddie’s session, I asked my assistant if she would like to tag along for Maddie’s session.  I usually don’t bring a second photographer to my portrait sessions but in this case, I thought it would be a great surprise for Maddie’s mom, Connie.  I met my assistant Joyce through Connie when we first moved to Virginia when I photographed Joyce’s daughter for her senior portraits.

Joyce and Connie grew up together and despite the Army moving Connie and her family all over, they still kept in touch.  They hadn’t seen each other in awhile and so it was exciting to get to arrange a reunion for them both.  With children the same age, it was great to hear them catch up as Maddie had her hair and makeup done.

For Maddie’s session, I wanted to give her two looks.  One that was elegant and sophisticated to reflect her growing up as well as a more light and airy look with lots of her favorite things surrounding her.  We incorporated some of her musical instruments as well as some of her favorite books.  Asking her to pick a favorite book proved to be a bit difficult but she was able to narrow it down to about 10 for the session.  We photographed her first look at a local historic theatre that has an entrance through a hidden doorway.  This was a nice surprise and added to some fun images seen below.  Maddie has grown from a sweet seven year old little girl into a intelligent and gifted musician.  She plays for her schools marching band and volunteers with her local church.  I am so excited to see what she takes on and accomplishes in the next 4 years.  Congratulations Maddie on your graduation next May!

 

 

Vendors

Hair and Makeup: Transformation Artistry

Venue: The Hippodrome