I was so honored to capture the M family, previous neighbors and family friends of mine. Caila wanted this photo shoot as an early birthday present and to document their first official/professional family photo as a family of four.

We met at Ivy creek in late September, so it had finally cooled down but was still summery looking. The lighting was great and no one was around! This is one of my favorite easy-access and versatile locations for photo sessions in the Charlottesville area.

Of course, working for friends sometimes has me nervous. I want everyone to love their photos, but I really want friends to! Caila said she actually cried happy tears upon seeing these – so that’s the best compliment I could ask for! She also said my camera must have “some kind of magic” because there’s “no way she looks that good.” Nah, girl. Trust me, you just look that good!

I think as moms it’s so easy to not see ourselves as we really are, because, well, we never really do, right? Getting done up for a session can be such a confidence booster, not just in how you look physically, but how your connection with your children is captured. Caila – you’re a great mama and I feel so honored to have gotten to document this for y’all!

Spring, summer, and fall is a great time to visit Ivy Creek not just for photos but really nice nature walks too. I can’t wait to come back here for another session!

xo Melissa