Shannon Holden Photography

I love my job. That’s no secret. One of the things I love most about it are the people I meet along the way. And when clients become cherished friends, the rewards of my job grow even more.

Desiree is one of those people. I first met her years ago at a Portrait Party I was shooting, where I created some family portraits of her and her husband, and their (then) young son, Hunter. A couple of years after that, Desiree hosted her own Portrait Party with me. At that time, she was pregnant with her daughter and I was pregnant with mine, both of whom happened to be born precisely 2 months apart. In the months of our pregnancies and the birth of our babies, we became even closer friends, and her friendship means the world to me. Our daughters love their playdates together, and Desiree and I meet when we can (when our crazy schedules allow) for coffee or a workout. We even share personal training sessions … nothing like the accountability of a friend to get you to the gym. (Speaking of which … Des, don’t forget to email me about our next training time!)

I was thrilled for the chance to create some updated portraits of Desiree, her children, and her family this past holiday season. This is one of the sessions that I didn’t get a chance to share in the hectic months before Christmas (though those of you who visit my Facebook business page might remember these images), which is ironic since it was one of my favorite sessions of the year. I literally squealed out loud when I passed this open field on the way to Desiree’s house. She and Paynter were so patient and understanding as I dragged them out to this seemingly barren strip of land. I’m sure you photographers can identify with my glee. Thankfully we didn’t encounter any snakes. Hunter and Vivian were awesome for their photo session, and they are gorgeous kids to photograph.

Desiree, thank you. You make me laugh, you share my tears, you are a true friend. Love you, girl!

Much love,
Shannon

“There is always one moment in childhood when the door opens and lets the future in.”  ~Graham Greene

My daughter and I were listening to some music this morning. One of her favorite country songs came up on the iPod, and she ran to grab her guitar. She strummed and sang along just like she was on stage. It made me think of this quote which I have always loved. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to look back thirty years from now and remember the moment that her future began?

Much love,
Shannon

Sometimes you just hear a story that grabs your heart and doesn’t let go. I heard about this sweet family from my father. One of his business partners is this young man’s mother. As Dad told me of their recent trials, of their young son and new baby, of their sudden battle against cancer, I felt a grip on my heart. I asked Dad to put me in touch with them, so that I might create some family portraits for them as they begin this journey. I was so happy when I heard back from Alyson and Aaron and we were able to arrange a day for a session. And then I met them, and I knew… This wasn’t about something I could do for them. This is about what they would do for me. All four of them radiated kindness and love. They were bright with hope.

Alyson, Aaron, Parker, and Walker … thank you. Thank you for sharing a morning with me, for letting me share a very small part of this journey with you, for reminding me how much love and hope strengthens us. My prayers are with you, that this journey is swift and sure. I know that your love and hope will carry you through.

Much love,
Shannon

No work today! We are having too much fun with the snow in Alpharetta. Hope you are having a fun day, too!