For the Love of Community
Community is a term near and dear to my heart. I've sought out, helped create, and leaned on community throughout my life - from book clubs and church groups, to moms' groups and co-workers. When I was approached to help with a community fundraiser, it was an easy yes! It was such an honor to be part of a group of photographers who chose to invest time in the Lovettsville community on October 5th. We each had different families, but our morning was the same - help create and capture memories.
We set up early at Long Stone Farm in Lovettsville. Our host graciously helped direct parking and table set up before our families arrived. Us photographers looked for some "spots" around the farm where our 15 minute mini sessions would be best for our style. I chose a shady field area just behind a barn and brought out my trusty fall-themed bench just in time for my first family. Some families wanted just the kiddos, some the whole family, and I always offered various groupings or breakdowns as fit in our time together.
The day was a bit brisk in the shade, which slowly faded and warmed during the hours. I was surprised to see how many families showed up in such great outfits, jewel-tones and earth tones that coordinated with each other! With the variety in backgrounds (barn, trees, fields for me), outfits and groupings worked out so well for the photo sessions. Fundraisers are always "fun" with the large number of people who I get to meet in a relatively short time, while benefiting the community and the participating families, but the process tends to veer from my usual when I give outfit recommendations, tips, and tricks ahead of time. Well done, everyone, on showing up in style!
My day ended just about lunch time, after working with these six lovely families. Each brought a unique vibe, and while some smiles were harder to tease out than others, I think I captured each of you at some point! I am glad to be part of community here in Northern Virginia, and glad to be a support to a PTO and these families. Thank you for sharing time, for being open to a quick sessions and my silly antics for smiles, and for coming to the event. I hope that these photos will become family treasures for each of you!
