I made a deal with my children, I would NOT purchase school photos from the school this year if they let me take their photos and pick out the clothing selection. I love that they are willing to and open to something more expressive of their personalities. While I have enjoyed school portraits and what they serve, as a mom and photographer teaching my kids about photography and storytelling is important. TO give them that language, where they can express themselves not only with style and color but also with poses and props, make me happy. Just as a painter would use various tools to create a masterpiece a photo of a child provides them with tools to grow in their self-confidence. I wanted to fix my son’s collar so badly in this image but HE thought it was cool so I had to let it go because it was his style. and I know that everything about this image was created by Cris. So this is how I’ll remember him in 1st grade!
My daughter is every bit of 9 years old and her personality reflects the very real fact that she is my daughter. She is bold, strong and beautiful. Everything you want in your 3rd grader. She is fiercely independent, private and very much her own person. I am learning to accept that she loves her space even at a young age. All of this means she knows herself and I love that about her. I hope she never loses this nor does she ever let anyone invade her space for the sake of fitting in.
Together they compliment each other. He draws her out of her shell, she teaches him how to read people and be more selective in his choices. They are amazing children. God really knew what he was doing when he selected me to be their Mother. I will accept full responsibility for them being spoiled, spoiled with love, time and attention. I am blessed to be able to work from home and watch them grow up, plan meals for them and deal with the fights over messy rooms and hours of homework battles. They won’t be this age forever and I have a limited amount of time to teach and guide them. Soon they will be hanging out with friends, driving staying out late. Our battles will be different and while I pray foundation I’ve provided will guide them when they are away from home, as a mom I will always worry.
I started this business for them and it has not disappointed me or them. I love all of the good bad and ugly that I have had to deal with as a business owner. I share the lessons with my kids and I hope that one day they would want to take over the studio and pursue a life as creatives, but if not I’ll be ok with that.
