Why I Do What I Do: My Heart Behind My Photography
One day, my Dad showed up at my house unexpectedly. At least, it felt unexpected- I quickly realized that we had made plans, and I had just forgotten. It was a chilly October morning, and we ended up sharing a pot of coffee while he spent time with my son, Everett, who was about three at the time.
Before he left, I asked if he would take a few pictures with Everett. By that point, I had been doing photography for a few years, but my Dad absolutely hated getting his picture taken. I had never managed to get real portraits of him before- just a handful of quick phone snapshots. But that morning, for whatever reason, he agreed.
We stepped outside, and the first snowfall of the year had just begun. It was cold, and my Dad despised the cold. He also hated snow, which made it even more surprising that he went along with it. We spent about ten minutes outside- just long enough for me to capture him tickling Everett, flipping him upside down, and making him laugh. Those moments were filled with genuine joy. Real connection. Real smiles. No forced poses, no stiff expressions, just the two of them, completely in the moment.
I cherish those pictures more than almost anything I’ve ever taken. Because what I didn’t know then was that it would be the last time we saw my father alive.
Shortly after that day, the COVID lockdown began. And in 2021, my Dad passed away suddenly and unexpectedly. Those photos, the ones we took on that snowy October morning, are the only professional images I have of him. They are the ones I turn to when I want to remember him not just as he was, but as he felt in those fleeting moments: present, playful, and full of love.
This is why I do what I do.
This is why I believe in capturing real moments- not just posed smiles, but laughter, movement, and connection. Your family photos should feel like family time. Your kids should be able to be themselves, to play, to giggle, to snuggle up with you without worrying about looking perfect. Because years from now, when time has moved forward and all you have left are the memories, these are the moments you’ll want to hold onto.
And that’s why I photograph the way I do- because the best pictures aren’t just seen. They’re felt.
If this resonates with you- if you want photos that truly capture the love and joy of your family in a way that feels natural and real- I’d love to help you create those memories. Let’s plan a session where you can simply be with your loved ones, laughing, playing, and making moments that will last a lifetime.
Ready to capture your family’s story? Connect with me here and let’s create something meaningful together.
~Carissa
