Shannon Holden Photography

Elise is the beautiful daughter of some awesome friends of mine. We met nearly eighteen months ago, when we both joined a married couple’s Small Group at our church. Elise was born very soon after that, and I’ve had the privilege of creating her portraits a few times in her first year. She is now 15 months old, and growing more beautiful by the day. Elise has so many facets to her personality. She is quiet and curious, silly and playful, and always charming.

She was feeling just a tad bit shy on the day of our session, but she gave us some cute giggles when tickled. She’s walking now and she’s enjoying her mobility quite a lot. She loves her mommy and daddy so much, and likewise, they are quite smitten with her. I always enjoy seeing the bond within a family.

Josh and Trish, I am so thankful for our friendship, and thankful for the chance to be your photographer as well. We are blessed to have you in our lives.

Much love,
Shannon

P.S. Two more days of the blog contest! Thanks, Tiffany L, for being such a faithful reader, though I’m sorry you are having to work so many late night these days!! You’ve won another $50 portrait credit for catching my missed post yesterday. Truth be told, I was recovering from having 17 boys in my house for a pajama party for my son’s 9th birthday. I knew I hadn’t done the day’s blog post yet, but at 9:30, exhaustion took over and I was asleep!

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

Meet Sophia. What a sweetheart! She is 14 months old, and absolutely precious. She was just the slightest bit shy when we first met, but her sparkling personality came through quickly. Her parents and I have been waiting for the weather to cooperate for her session, and finally we had a beautiful and not-freezing day to meet. This whole family was so warm and welcoming to me. I love it when I meet brand new clients who instantly feel like good friends.

Sophia loved to sing Patty Cake, Patty Cake, Bakers Man. I had to giggle seeing her adorable smile light up when we sang with her. Shane and Jessica, it was such a treat to meet you at last. Thank you for the chance to photograph your darling girl! It was such a pleasure. I hope you enjoy your sneak peek!

Much love,
Shannon

I was so excited to see the M family again. At our last session, we focused on portraits of their four children, each of whom is so unique, and so photogenic! Yet they share so much in common. Each is very bright, impressively polite, and very devoted to one another. Their bond is so special to witness.

I was especially glad when Mrs. M told me that she and her husband would be joining in our session this time, with the goal of creating a portrait of them as a family. Even though I know first hand how difficult it can be on that side of the camera … I know us Moms are stressed enough getting all the outfits coordinated, the haircuts precisely timed, and getting everyone dressed and groomed the day of the session, much less the thought of actually being IN the photographs … but years from now, decades from now, I also know how much the children will cherish this image of their family. What I would give to have a portrait of my own family from my childhood! The memory of love and laughter …

Much love,
Shannon