What do you get when photographing 13 adults + 29 kids in one session? Some say chaos. Some say crazy busy. We say it’s a sweet challenge full of antics, laughter, and catch-them-as-you-can moments.

Tom and Sandy’s family reunion session was this group. We have fond memories of watching the kids clowning between (and during) shots but my (Jeanette) favorite memory is with one little guy who didn’t want anything to do with me as I set a pose. I smiled and let him alone while he held tightly to mom.

A few minutes later when we were on to another family group pose, his mother approached and said her son shied away because he didn’t know me. So we were formally introduced….and afterwards he was my little buddy.

Learning to focus on kids’ names, who needs a nap, who is tired of posing, etc has made for success in getting the kids to enjoy the shoot. (Be sure to check out the before and after pics of my little buddy below.)

To Tom and Sandy,

We have such sweet memories of meeting your family. They were all so fun and full of life. You have an amazing posterity in the making. Thank you for letting us be part of your Nauvoo experience.

All the Best!

Tom and Jeanette