No matter what kind of portrait session I find myself at, I am always amazed by the dynamics between family members, couples, or friends.  Honestly, unless I’ve seen the individuals interact previously, I don’t know what I will get, but I am more than ready to work with it!  In a recent family portrait session, I was excited to see the firm bonds between the children and their parents.  As a matter of fact, these elementary-aged children enjoyed being photographed with their parents (and readily did the activities that I proposed).  As I processed through the photographs last night, I reflected on why this was so significant.  Now, I do not have any children of my own, but the more and more I “live” I see the sacrifices that parents make for their children.  I see the price that working adults pay as they get up in the morning to go to jobs that may not be as exciting just to be able to provide a better life for their legacy.  Then occasionally, I run across one of those ungrateful children that feels entitled to the fruits of their parents’ labor.  Or worst yet, I remember my own days in middle school and high school when I had the nerve to think I dressed better than my parents, the same people that purchased the very clothes I wore.  I had the nerve to be embarrassed to be seen in the school hallways or the mall with my parents, even though I expected them to cover the bill of our shopping exploits.  I say all of this to share the beauty of the exchanges between mother and son and father and daughter.  They were truly precious moments, moments that I hope last, moments that I hope can be reflected upon with a smile!  I don’t imagine that too many children read this blog (because I can get a little lengthy), but to the parents, I say, remember that no matter what your children do, they really do still love you!  When they get to those teenage years, remember that it is just a phase, and soon enough, they will be on their own working and will start to value the sacrifices you made for them!

Below are images from a recent family portrait session in Glen Burnie, MD.  By the way, if you see something you like, please do not hesitate to leave a comment below!