Shannon Holden Photography

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

Last week, I babysat my two little cousins for an afternoon. Riley will be two years old next month, and his baby brother Hayden is now six months old. They are two of the sweetest, calmest little ones I have ever seen. Even still, I learned that I am officially out of practice when it comes to caring for a baby and a toddler simultaneously! I did this once in my life, not too long ago really, but I’ve lost all those skills. My three year old was home, and she certainly adds her own beautiful element of chaos and drama to any situation. Thank goodness the boys are so sweet and gentle. Riley was anxious to help me with everything Hayden needed, and he even put up with my daughter’s boundless energy with amazing patience.

Watching all the children play, I found myself just gazing at Riley and Hayden, two of the most gorgeous children I have ever seen (along with my bias for my own kids of course!), and a light bulb appeared above my head. I just happened to have my studio lights all set up in the guest room, as I’ve been working on some other portrait ideas. Truly, I did not plan on being a photographer that particular day. It was dark and rainy outside, so natural light photographs would have been near impossible anyway. But honestly, fellow photographers … could you spend a few hours with children this precious and not pick up your camera? No, I couldn’t either.

Their mommy didn’t even know I created these photographs until 20 minutes ago, when I called to ask her if I could put them on my blog. Surprise, Kim! Your children are such incredible blessings!