When I am hired for a family photo session my main goal is to make the shoot and photos special and fun for my clients. I don't just want to take and provide images. I want to provide memories and photos that can be cherished for a lifetime. I put a great amount of effort into picking a special location, time of day, consideration of weather conditions and many other variables that can make or break a shoot.

When my friend Emily recently contacted me about photographing her family we discussed possible locations. We tossed around a few ideas and agreed on an open field that has long range views. However, on the days leading up to our scheduled shoot the weather was not cooperating. It was to be a bright and sunny day. Bright and sunny days are not ideal conditions for an outdoor photo session, especially in an open field. We made a final decision that we would start at their home and then move to another local spot in their neighborhood. I arrived at their house and started photographing their two children (Lydia 10 and Jack 7).

Emily's husband Jay came out to greet me and informed me we were going to head over to some private property over in Mill's River for the shoot. Anyone that knows me knows how much I LOVE Mill's River, NC. I spend a lot of time in Pisgah National Forest and Mill's River in general. The opportunity to explore new terrain and photograph this beautiful family at the same time instantly excited and energized me. We headed off to Mill's River to make some memories. Here are a few of my favorite images. Hope you enjoy!

The West family is truly beautiful, blessed and genuinely as pleasant and nice as anyone could possibly be. It's obvious by these images that they are in love and enjoying life. I had a blast spending this precious time with them. Thanks for checking out my blog!