I helped photograph this couple's wedding a few years back and was super happy they asked me to document their extended families that were gathered together to celebrate their son's First Birthday. Many traveled far and wide for the special occasion and I thought it was a great idea to take the opportunity for photographs. Wisely, we met up a few hours BEFORE the party so that we can great great photos in a relaxed environment and then they can go off and enjoy the festivities.
Let me just say that my blogging commentary about this session has the potential to go over the top on how much LOVE this family has for the birthday boy, not to mention his cousin. You will see firsthand how fanatically enamored they are with this very special stage in their lives (appropriately so)! It is just awesome and I'm going to try my best to not be say "Can you feel the love?!?!" about almost every photo, but I ain't promising anything. ;-) OK, now that you've been warned, here goes...
The boy of the hour....the catchlights in his deep brown eyes adds a delicious twinkle.
I am convinced he knows he's cute. Those soulful eyes.
Both sides of his family were present for pictures so we got many "all in the family" shots. Mom's side...
A very close and cuddly group.
Does this smile say "I'm happy to be a grandmother" or what?
I switched up the background slightly for these two special people.
Ha!
Big smiles for Aunt and Uncle.
Now this is the kind of photo that I cherish. Togetherness and smiles in a natural playful way.
So silly you can't help but smile.
With mom, auntie and grandma.
Although not a traditional looking-at-the-camera shot, I think you still are able to get a great sense of feeling. Maybe even more than the former.
More love from another happy grandma. I took this right after she arrived and scooped him up. It's important to always be at the ready with the camera.
One day when he is an adult, I hope he will see this photo and feel her love from the joy on her face.
More twinkly eyes. I made sure the sun was behind me for that.
Another fave. I envision this image blown up in a playroom.
I love photos like this as he will grow quickly and mom and dad will fondly remember how he was once small enough to put on dad's shoulders.
Plus it's always good to show grown kids that their parents are fun.
OK, if this isn't a "feel the love" photo, I don't know what is!
I like the depth between Auntie and Baby here. To get that effect, I shoot close with a wide lens.
Cousin has arrived.
I remember taking a similar shot at the wedding. Now it's plus two.
Sweet shot. And I wish I could say that I composed it purposely to capture the number on the front, but the truth is I JUST noticed it. Funny, right?!
Every grandmother with more than one grandchild wants a picture like this.
Mom with her two boys and their two boys.
Smothered with kisses. There's lot's more where that came from kiddo!
Many thanks to all of you for a wonderful morning celebrating family!!
