scribblechic

The day of our second family photograph session was filled with the same humor, fun, and good intentions that compose our days outside the lens.  I debated detailing the day, but thought perhaps I need this reminder to revisit next year.

Good intentions began early, with a mother-daughter moment.  Last year, Rapunzel inspired my daughter to begin growing her chin length bob to fairytale proportions.  At present her shoulder length hair is typically a tangled nightmare of defiance against all my endeavors to tame her tresses.  My daughter hides behind the thick curtain of her hair and I was eager that our photographs capture her expressive features.  Unpracticed at braiding I enlisted a stylist for a quick and simple braid to sweep my daughter’s features into the forefront while still allowing the remainder of her hair to fall comfortably, that she would feel at ease.  I did this approximately 9 hours before our session to an active 7-year-old.  Lesson: The braid was a good idea.  The appointment was too early.

My daughter prematurely prepped and still uncertain what I should wear, we stopped by a store for a simple summer dress. I was rewarded with an adorable, white sundress that would blend quietly into my family’s wardrobe.  The fit was perfect, but the cost unreasonable.  I was working hard to choreograph an image rather than embracing myself as is.  I set aside the dress and settled for my familiar summer uniform of shorts and a top.  Lesson: Be yourself.  Costumes not required.  Smiles should be more prominent than clothing.

Feeling a little distracted by the details, I ran to shake off my anxiety.  My hair previously styled for the day was slick with sweat.  I raced through washing and drying my hair, primping and fussing.  Then I made water balloons.  I sat outside, sweating from the heat and sprayed with water from a stubborn hose filling tiny plastic balloons.  Much to my children’s delight I released them to our backyard to burn off their own pent-up energy in a water war.  Lesson: Make time to play.  Happy children are more relaxed.

Picture time came just hours before sunset.  Between grassy locations and mosquitoes we settled into ourselves in the company of a friend.  This is my greatest indulgence, having someone who knows the best pieces of my family using her lens to guide the camera. My children opened up to her and I relaxed in her company.  I will inevitably fret over my own image, but I know without a doubt that the images will reflect the humor, fun, and good intentions of our days as a family.  Lesson: Bring a friend.  Schedule outdoor photographs for after the first frost to avoid pesky pests.

At day’s end our session was a walk in the park, filled with happy discoveries.

Tagged: Family, Photographs