A Family of Four
As any mom can attest, wrangling schedules is one of the big tasks that parents undertake as children grow. School schedules, sports practices and games, family outings, and all the myriad of items and events often overtake life. In many ways, these details ARE the life, and the joy we gain from each adds up. And sometimes, the details can get all scrambled together and days feel hectic. This lovely family of four met me out at Lubber Run Park in Arlington, Virginia after one of the more chaotic kinds of days. Sports schedules got changed, events didn't start on time, and we adjusted our session start time to help accommodate these details to capture some memories.
As we started out, there was a lovely white fringe tree along the main path at Lubber Run, a picturesque spot for some family photos. I find starting with everyone together helps get out any nervous wiggles and earn a few real smiles as we begin. For Luke and Ethan, a little encouragement from Mom and Dad helped out! We chatted about sports and seasons and being a "boy mom" with all the energy and messy fun that comes with it. These brothers showed some great personality, were excellent listeners, and even helped me come up with some impromptu candid poses!
Besides it being a few years since their last family photo session, there was another reason for the Edwards this time. A new little one (a girl!) is on the way VERY soon, helping mom even out the boy/girl ratio just a little. Since we were trying to capture this special time, there were some maternity poses alongside the family shots, too. This little girl will have a whole family looking out for her, and two big brothers to watch over her alongside two devoted parents (the tender looks, gentle hugs, and general joy were tangible!).
In working with so many families, I always find our chats throughout the session to be so enlightening. There's usually a connection someplace - and this time, there were a few! As we talked about photography, and that their previous repeat photography place was no longer open, I mentioned that I'll be moving this summer (just for a few years) as I'm part of a Foreign Service family. Lo and behold, the Edwards' are friends with several, and one that is posted overseas in a place where my husband visited just a few months ago, too! The Northern Virginia area always affords such wonderful connections and overlaps like these.
I enjoyed this session so much! The weather held out nicely, the breeze kept the bugs away, and it was a fun, easy session with a family ready to welcome another to their number. Thank you for allowing me the honor of capturing some memories for you as you transition from a family of four to soon-to-be five!
