I read about a photographer who wanted a beautiful picture of her own family but
that was a struggle since her son was Autistic and would not stand for a traditionally
posed picture. So she adapted. She followed her son around all day and captured
moments that demonstrate the love her family shares. She realized that not every
family wants a traditional family portrait, nor can every family take one. This led her to
tailor her business to meet the need of every family.
That inspired me to meet the need of every family.
I had this opportunity with the Ventling family. They married ten years ago at Harkness
State Park in Waterford, Connecticut. Now, ten years and three children later, they
wanted to recreate some of their wedding pictures and take some family portraits. They
have an active toddler, a five year old daughter, and a son on the autism spectrum.
They did not want a traditional posed portrait but rather wanted pictures that captured
their family’s personality and playful love. They let me follow along and snap picture
after picture after picture.
We recreated their wedding photos.
We played.
We captured a beautiful family portrait, several in fact.
Our afternoon was about more than taking pictures. We created memories. We
remembered the bond of love that created this family. We celebrated that bond and the
life that sprang forth from it.
Their photo gallery is a testimony to their love. I am beyond grateful to have had shared
in this experience with them.