Dancing, Flowers, and a Love That Leads | Leah + Neil’s Session
Leah and Neil have six incredible children — five precious girls and one handsome little man — and I’ve had the privilege of photographing them since baby number two was born. Every year with them feels like stepping into a beautiful mix of fun, tenderness, and deep love.
Sedelle, the natural leader of the pack, came with her own creative photographic ideas and worked hard to make them happen. The girls were all in, striking poses, giggling together, and sweet little Bellamy happily doing his own thing in the background.
Halfway through, the girls started picking flowers. Adeline walked up to me with a purple coneflower in her hand and said softly, “Keep it safe.” So into my camera bag it went for the rest of the evening — a tiny reminder of childlike trust and sweetness.
When I asked the kids what song we should play for a burst of energy, “Zombie” (yes, that Zombie) got shouted out, and before I knew it, the four middle ones were having a full-on dance party right there. It was pure joy — and honestly, I might have to keep that trick in my back pocket for future shoots. Also, it was around this time of the evening that the glow of the sunset was absolutely unreal. Here are our receipts:
I have to highlight this image – sweet Margot didn’t catch my prompt to keep a serious face and not smile. OR she heard it and thought it was our reverse psychology strategy we’d used throughout the evening.
By the end, the kids were starting to fade and made their way toward the car. But Neil paused and said, “Wait, wait. I need a few with my beautiful bride.” He started gently fixing Leah’s hair — curls loosened from the summer humidity — and pulled her in close for hugs and kisses. These two are such an example of how to nurture a strong marriage in the middle of raising young kids.
They parent the same way — fully present, fully loving. At one point during the session, when one of the kids started to tear up, Leah bent down and said, “Tell me. Tell me what you’re feeling. Tell me what you’re thinking.” She gave her full attention in that moment, no rush, no distraction.
That’s Leah and Neil — loving their kids deeply and intentionally, loving each other well, and creating a home full of both joy and safety. They inspire me every time I see them — not just as a photographer, but as a parent and a spouse.
Well done, you two. You’re doing an incredible job. Keep going — I’m rooting for you.
—Carrie
PS You can view the rest of our time together (complete with incredible outtakes!) HERE.
