Meltdowns, tears, detours and other (future) fond memories

There are a few portraits that everyone wants. Usually involving smiles, kisses or a tender moment between Daddy and Baby. But what about the other stuff?

Tantrums, defiance, dirt...while the moment is beyond frustrating, years from now when your little one is all grown up and on his or her way to college won't you look up at the photo in full blown tantrum mode at the park and grow misty? I took the below photo of my daughter at Tyler Aborteum two weeks ago. It was hot and she got very angry because she couldn't play with my camera. In the moment, we were both a little upset. But even now when I look at it, I can see the humor and well, she's just so darn cute when she cries.

Some of the best photos I've taken are those unplanned and agitated moments.

Go with it. They turn out to be life's treasures.

Coluccio Family Portraits

The day was HOT and HUMID with no breeze. You could literally taste the wetness in the air. But to see the relaxed smiles from Christy, Doug and Nate you would've thought it was a cool 70 degrees. With thoughtfully coordinated outfits, the Coluccio Family joined me for portraits at Tyler Arboretum. While it was a few weeks late, we were commemorating Nate's 1st birthday. Nate immediately gave me an easy sweet grin- no stranger anxiety for this kid!

Like me, the Coluccios are also fans of Tyler Arboretum, and there's a pretty cool exhibit going on called "Nature's Enchantment." Every exhibit was created by a local artisan, and the little ones love it. In fact, I have a family membership to take advantage of all the beautiful scenery and neat exhibits- it's been quite a popular spot for portraits this summer.

Ever seen such bright blue eyes?

Bubbles!

There are a few things guaranteed to animate a child's face. A favorite grandparent, candy, a beloved teddy...and of course, bubbles! Once the bubbles come out, so do the big smiles.

Chasing, running, popping...even the most guarded of babies can't resist "ba-bas!"