I had the privilege of photographing this family last year on a much colder day. Mother Miriam came prepared with props and I knew she was a woman with a mission. We met at Raccoon River Park with the goal of getting wet by the end of the session. Maybe after 15 minutes of slyly trying poses with her boys, it was very clear to me, that the best shots of Joseph and Thomas would be candid and involve lots of water.
I love observing people. Seeing their character through a lens. When someone is put on the spot, knowing they are being watched, how comfortable are they? Miriam was as comfortable in her own skin in this session as any woman I’ve ever met. She knew what kind of pictures she wanted and that made me the side show which is exactly what I want. I want to be the fly on the proverbial wall catching glimpses into the session’s subject. Miriam and Sean’s family was a beautiful subject to capture.
Last year, I tried to evoke some affection and silliness between Mom & Dad, but this year, I didn’t have to work very hard at all. When the head of a family shows up in a “dusty red” shirt and is willing to be called “Fairy Dust” because it looks just about pink, I know it’s going to be a good photo session! Again, Miriam knew what kind of pictures she wanted and Sean was more than happy to help fulfill the mission.
This is about the only pose the boys were excited about. I was “shooting” them, so I let them shoot me!
Joseph made me think of Huckleberry Finn complete with stick:
Miriam: “Are we done?”
Me: “Yup.”
Miriam: “Ok boys! Look out!”
Miriam, you are a beautiful woman. You never let the boys out-rambunctious you. 🙂
Fairy, er, I mean, Sean, you have a beautiful family:
After just the first few minutes, it was very clear that Sean & Miriam are still very much in love with each other. There is no safer environment for children when Dad still loves on Mom and vice versa. The boys may say it’s gross to see them kiss, but subconsciously, it helps them to feel secure. This is something that Gerard and I hope to emulate some day. Thank you for showing us that it’s possible!
Miriam, Sean, your family is so fun to photograph. I consider myself very privileged to have the opportunity to observe your boys in their element and what a Godly family looks like. Thank you so much for just a little glimpse into your lives.
Much love & Appreciation,
Carrie
