I love it when I’m gifted the opportunity get to know a family through multiple sessions in a year. Not only is it a joy for me to be a witness to the many transformations the children go through in a year, but it allows the kids to get to know me, too. When kids are more comfortable, there’s a noticeable difference in their interactions with each other and with me. For this third session, Awo (Mom) wanted to continue her biannual sessions in documenting siblings Austen and Carolina as they grow up.
When you get to work with a family a number of times, it’s fun to have the opportunity to take photos in a brand new location. Most of my clients’ photo sessions take place in their homes, which makes perfect sense – it’s where kids are most in their element. So, my previous sessions with the Gray Family were taken in and around their house. Since this was our third photo session together, Awo suggested we meet this time at park near the family’s home, the Forestville Schoolhouse. It was a great choice, too, since it gave plenty of room for the kids to run around and find their own groove. Plus, the log fence and the fall foliage provided a nice backdrop for the shots. Though the weather during this fall afternoon was a little gloomy, the temp was comfortable. The kids didn’t seem to mind the overcast day one bit and had a fun time hanging out and climbing on the fence.
Awo is always careful about choosing just the right outfits for the kids; with formal attire for part of the time, and a quick change in to casual clothes for the other part. Whether dressed up or down, Austen was giddy about sitting high up on the fence, which gave me the chance to catch him with an expression of pure joy. Carolina couldn’t resist climbing either and after hint of hesitation, joined her brother in the fun. I adore the energy and enthusiasm you see in Austen and Carolina’s faces in all of these images. Whether together, or separate, these two adorable kiddos were a joy to photograph and I look forward to seeing where our next adventure takes us.
About the Photographer and Author:
Julie Kubal is a child and family portrait artist and photographer serving Washington DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia. She is passionate about creating warm and meaningful artwork through modern portraits and lifestyle photography at a location of your choice!