A couple weeks ago I photographed Juliana + Philip with their parents, Melissa + Michael. We had such a great time together that they asked me to photograph the kids' Catholic Confirmation this month. Around the same time that I was preparing to shoot this experience for them, I stumbled upon a book study called Building A Legacy of Faith in Your Children from the book Pass It On. I have thought often about building values, including encouraging Braxton's faith as he grows up. I had all kinds of great theoretical ideas before he was born, but 2 years later, now that I'm in the thick of it, the idea of how to accomplish this is absolutely daunting! How was faith instilled in me growing up? How do I take on the crazy task of passing on values associated with my faith while letting Braxton come to his own conclusions about his faith? While I haven't purchased the book yet, what struck me from the study was that the authors mention one meaningful experience would be to go out and serve the community as a family. During or after this event they suggest taking a photograph to document it. Looking back at this memory as the children grows results in confidence and reminds them of the impact they had on other people and how important it is to put others first. Similarly, while we may not all share the same faith by the label of our denominations, I appreciate the importance of documenting rites of passage such as this one for Juliana + Philip. I hope they look back at these photos as they grow up and feel their parents' love and a confidence in their place in the world. One thing Melissa said to me that night was, "Thank you so much for today. It went by so fast. We really appreciate you taking the pictures so we could enjoy the experience." This is why I love my job; allowing people to enjoy experiences in the moment and then treasure them as time passes. Photographing experiences like this one are a critical part of developing lifelong values and concrete awareness of what matters in our lives. I am honored to be asked into my clients' lives to do just that.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Hi. I'm Suzanna.I like running outside, eating real food and crafting beautiful images. I am captivated by documenting everyday life–revealing what authentic, adventurous and lovers of life we all are. Life is full.Sign up for my newsletter, PRISM, for creative inspiration to remember the details that count. Thank you!Look for a new PRISM in your inbox very soon. |