I walked around Michael’s on the hunt for some holiday props and decorations for some upcoming holiday shoots. I picked out a red and black plaid blanket, a cute red lantern, wooden letters to spell “joy”, and some glitter banners to string between trees. While I was buying for a shoot the following weekend, I figured I could use them for a shoot I had that day, too. I arrived on location and excitedly set up a holiday scene. I was shooting for a beloved family I had the pleasure of getting to know a few years back when I was a nanny for them.

The Peters have always been a sounding block for me. They are just people you want to surround yourself with- they are intentional, present and loving in their lives and the lives of their children, and people that don’t shy away from real, raw conversations (a personal favorite, obviously!). Truly a family you want in your life, and I had the pleasure of hanging with them this past Sunday.

The Peters arrived on location looking freaking adorable in their fall outfits that went together but weren’t too matchy-matchy. We exchanged hugs and hellos and I turned to show them my holiday scene- only, they didn’t look as excited as I was. Sarah asked if I’d been to the adorable duck pond that was right through the trail nearby, and also said there was an an old bench and old stone wall, too. I graciously followed their lead as we started to walk that way.

We ventured to the duck pond and on the trails leading around it to a beautiful old bench. The entire shoot was natural and simple, spot on for the Peters. As we walked back to our starting point, I noticed the holiday scene and props. The Peters preferred nature as their background; no curated set, no props, just them. It was perfect.

As we left the shoot, I was riding high thinking about how great the shoot turned out. I reflected and it stung for a moment that all my holiday props were not utilized for this shoot, then I was filled with gratitude. I realized have a family brings me back to my roots. See, I bought holiday props because that is what I have seen other photogs do. Yes, they are adorable and will work well in many shoots, but it is also what I thought I should do. To show up prepared. To be enough. To have something to offer. The Peters granted me freedom from what I thought I should do and reminded me that I am enough. Showing up for them- me, myself, and my camera, with nature as our backdrop, was more than enough.

I can’t thank the Peters enough for being the kind hearted, open, loving family they have been to me over the years. They are and were a great reminder to be true to you and remember, you are enough.

Xoxo,
C