Family Session at Foster Floodplain

I had the opportunity to shoot a family session for a fellow photographer over with Megan Henson Photography.  I have photographed several photographers now, and every single time it is scary and humbling.  It is scary because photographers look at more than just the expressions and posing… they see things like white balance and exposure and creative framing.  And it’s humbling because you know they value good photography and choose me for their family portraits!  This family session turned out to be one of my favorites this fall because they were so comfortable in front of the camera and we got a break in the usually grey, fall weather and got some beautiful warm evening sunlight!  These were all taken at the Foster Floodplain Nature Area in southeast Portland, Oregon.

During our pre-session consultation we talked about props and including something meaningful to them.  They brought a quilt that was passed down from one of their grandmothers and we included it in their photos.  I love when people bring heirloom items like this!

I loved the warm light in many of these photos, but they are great in black & white as well.  In fact, they ordered the family photo below (top left) large for their wall in black and white!

Unfortunately, I learned a lesson during this session too… never leave extra camera gear in your vehicle when you’re shooting, especially in public location.  After our shoot was over I came back to my van to find the passenger window broken in and my vehicle completely ransacked.  Thankfully, I had ALL my camera gear with me and the vandals didn’t steal a single thing considering the only items in my van were children’s books, a Veggie Tales DVD and some Christian music CD’s.  But I still was out the cost of the window (as the replacement value was less than my insurance deductible).  My van was parked right by a busy road and in a busy parking lot where people were constantly coming and going, so it just goes to show you that even locations that are not remote are at risk of theft.  So here’s my public service announcement to photographers… NEVER LEAVE GEAR IN YOUR CAR!  I know I’ve left extra camera bodies and lenses in the car during sessions before, and I’m just thankful I didn’t do that this time!