The Pilbeam Family // Lake Ann Family Photographer

There is something really magical when I gain the trust of a kid who I am photographing. When you first meet a family, the kids can often be apprehensive. They are wondering who you are. They are curious, but unsure. Talking directly to them has been the biggest skill I have practiced that changes the entire process. Stop talking over them. Ask them questions, truly make them feel like they are involved in the picture taking experience. I met this family last year and had an absolute blast. So I had already made headway with the kids. This year they immediately greeted me at the car talking about new toys and what they had been doing at the cottage. By the end of the session I was getting a tour of the play room, meeting special stuffed animals, carrying magna-tiles down the stairs, and getting a glimpse at where the secret candy stash was hidden. And I honestly believe that my photography is better because of all of this. This work is such an honest to goodness joy for me. Long live Summer and a huge thanks to the Pilbeam family for having me.