People often ask me why I do photography on top of everything else I do, and the main reason is because it brings me closer to people during magical moments in their life; many “firsts” and major milestones.  I make new friends and grow closer to those I already know.  Photographing YOU, enriches MY life.  It’s like fuel for my soul.  (Selfish, right?!).  M’s maternity session exemplifies this truism.  I have known M’s husband, A, since high school and M since they started dating.  She is GORGEOUS, gracious, vivacious, uber smart, and so warm – I always feel comfortable in her presence.  I think she has that effect on everyone.  Her eyes sparkle and welcoming warmth oozes out of her.  She is a genuine, caring person.  I was thrilled to spend the afternoon w/ M and A, capturing her beautiful baby girl belly.  I lingered longer than usual because we were having such a nice time chatting and laughing and talking about her upcoming entry to motherhood.  I took way more photos than I normally do too.  I just couldn’t stop.  When I left, I felt closer to both of them.  I shared a special and intimate time with them, looking to the future when their baby girl arrives.  I absolutely cannot wait to photograph her.  M and A are also going to be the subjects of a very special project that’s been a long time brewing for me, so stay tuned to see what it is 🙂

It would be easier on me (physically and time-wise) to step away and say that from now on I’m only photographing my own family; to capture our own day-to-day life.  But I am compelled by the connections I make, the moments I witness and capture (and by default become a part of), and the magic of life, to continue forward.  It will be a long time before I put down the camera and stop capturing other people’s lives.