The Best Gifts Are Family And Love - The Cook Family

The holiday season is quickly approaching and I have the most wonderful family to share with all of you. Shawna approached me two years ago for a family portrait session. Due to scheduling conflicts and a busy fall season we just weren't able to make it work. This year I received another message stating, "Mandi, I am determined to have a family portrait session this year!" I loved her enthusiasm and how much she valued my approach to a family portrait experience. 

During the design consultation, our personalities really clicked. I learned about her three beautiful daughters, her vision for their family portrait experience, and her need of wanting family portraits that truly captured the love of their family. Their family portrait session would be their family Christmas present this year. I loved that, in essence, they were gifting the joy of family, celebrating their story, and capturing the love they share for one another. We discussed beautiful wall art for their home that would remind them every day what truly matters all year round. 

The day of their "fall session", we had a heat wave. Everyone was certainly dressed the part but to say we didn't sweat our butts off a little would be an understatement. The fall colors were in their full glory at Eagle Point Park in Dubuque Iowa. Shawna had requested my orange chair she'd seen in previous sessions and the family was having an absolute blast. They were so easy to work with which made for some amazing portraits. 

After the park, we traveled down to the Millwork District for some more urban-inspired portraits. The urban portraits are quickly turning into some of my most favorite this year. They're absolutely stunning. During the consultation we had discussed some camera anxiety. I completely understand when my clients are nervous about getting their portraits taken. As a photographer, even I get the same anxiety. I loved being able to capture each of her daughter's portraits and prove to them just how absolutely gorgeous they are not only on the inside but on the outside as well.  

Shawna and Caleb, you have a beautiful family.  Your love for one another was so apparent and your family's spirit and joy was absolutely infectious. Thank you for trusting me with your family portrait experience and for allowing me to capture your family's love story. Enjoy!