Man oh man, talk about a great way to kick off the summer photo season! I love getting to photograph these kids, capturing how much they change from year to year (while, of course, Christine and Dan haven't aged a single day...). Next time I'm bringing my own tutu, because I have a feeling that Nell could really teach me some moves.
Scheduling an outdoor shoot during spring in Michigan can feel a lot like playing the lottery: there's so much potential for greatness, and yet, how often did we find ourselves shivering in our sweatshirts this past April? When Kristina and I started making plans for this session back in December, we landed on Mother's Day weekend and hoped for the best. Clearly, we all hit the jackpot.
There is something so perfect about shooting a maternity session with spring unfolding in the background. The budding trees, the warm sunlight, the fresh air; seasonal allergies aside, you couldn't ask for a better setting. Danielle and Craig were so kind and gracious, and it's exciting to think that their sweet baby boy will be joining them any day now.
After months of waiting and praying for this little one's safe arrival, there was a huge crowd on hand at the airport to welcome Ron, Erin, and baby Sawyer home from South Korea. It looks like big brothers Greyson and Charlie are pretty smitten with Sawyer, and I'm reasonably sure that the feeling is mutual.
It's pretty amazing to see how much can change in eight months. Welcome home, Sawyer!
Of the many lessons I learned last year, this one stands out: for me, traveling is never a glamorous affair. I don't arrive at my destination looking effortlessly put together, my luggage typically looks as beat up as I feel, and I can guarantee you that I won't be able to sleep on the plane no matter how tired I am. But that doesn't stop me from always wanting to hop on a plane to anywhere. Last May my best friend and I explored New York City, and I'd be lying if I said that I didn't want to go back every single day.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Our hotel was in Koreatown. There was a subway station at the end of the block and the Empire State Building two streets over, should you need a landmark to find your way home. So fun, and also so convenient.
Don't miss walking the length of the High Line. It's free, the people watching is top notch, and the views are incredible. Be sure to hit the Chelsea Market for a snack or three.
You can always count on MoMA for a great time, but Krystle also made sure we visited the Museum of Arts & Design. The cost of admission was reasonable, and the crowds were delightfully nonexistent.
If you're looking to walk off all the tasty meals you're no doubt enjoying, walk the span of the Manhattan Bridge. Take an afternoon to wander around DUMBO, and then walk back into Manhattan on the Brooklyn Bridge. Touristy? Of course, but the graffiti on the Manhattan Bridge is epic.