I love this time of the year when I get to photograph some of my dearest clients! This year, the McJunkin clan decided their photo session would be a family fun day at a local Scottsdale park. I can’t believe how their five children are growing up so quickly. Of course, I say that to them every time I see them! You can see for yourself when you take a look at last year’s session!
After starting our family fun day session with shooting some group photos, I wanted to try something a little more intimate involving each child. Sometimes in bigger families, it’s easy to just focus on big group photos. But as any parent knows, your relationship is unique with each child. I asked Tory and Jenny, as each child took their turn sitting with them, to think of some unique characteristics that make him/her so special. It was so precious to watch how each of their children received these powerful affirmations from their mom and dad. Some of their reactions started off a little more serious as they listened to their parents take turns sharing why they are so special and then it would always end in laughter and giggles. In turn, I also asked each child to share what they loved most about their mom and dad. Hands down, that was my favorite part of the session!
One of the great benefits of shooting in a location that offers some fun treats is it can be a great tool for bribery! The kids could barely contain themselves at the thought of enjoying a scoop of ice cream at the “end” of their session. However, little did they know, the ice cream reward was actually a planned part of their session! I love it! There was lots of silliness to be had by all… from “cheers” using their ice cream cones to sneaking licks from mom and dad’s ice cream. The only downside of this part of the session was sweet little Lincoln started to feel a little under the weather. He still enjoyed his ice cream while snuggling with mom.
Another special element of this family session was taking some pictures of their daughter, Grace, showing one of the devices she wears for type 1 diabetes. I took some photos of Grace when she celebrated her amazing brave first year with diabetes back in July of 2016. She is an incredibly courageous young lady who radiates joy and love. Grace and her mom are wanting to share some of these images on other social media platforms to help bring awareness and encourage other children who have diabetes as well.
I can’t begin to tell you how special the McJunkin family is to me. They have long sense passed the status of clients to becoming very dear friends of mine! Thank you, Tory and Jenny, for allowing me to share in your family’s journey!
