These two photographs were taken 11 months and 3 weeks apart. What a difference a year can make- most importantly, healing and new life.
I wish that I could put into words the way my heart feels- but the words I come up with never seem adequate. That is especially so when I speak of Holly and my forever connection to her family. Our relationship began with the pregnancy of her second child and I’ve been photographing all of their momentous life events since. In 2009, Holly became pregnant with her third baby- a little girl. But at 17 weeks she was diagnosed as having a fatal anomaly. Holly and Josh knew there was a good chance that baby Atalina wouldn’t make it, but they chose to continue on with the pregnancy. I have this amazing respect and admiration for Holly and am in awe at the courage she showed throughout her pregnancy and delivery.
I am not currently a NILMDTS photographer, but I had the honor of acting as such for the birth of Holly’s little girl. On April 31 I arrived at the hospital with Holly and Josh so that I could be there to photograph the birth and short life of sweet Atalina. Atalina Hope was born on May 1, 2010. I spent 15 hours at the hospital with her and her family- from labor through delivery. Photographing Atalina was the most difficult and heart-wrenching, yet the most rewarding thing I have EVER done and I am so happy that I was able to give that gift to Holly.
Almost exactly a year later, here I am photographing Holly’s gorgeous pregnant belly again. Inside is Willow- a perfectly healthy little girl who will arrive in the world a little over a year after her big sister. What a gift.
Holly, you are strong, and wonderful, and full of grace. I love you.
Brandon bought a body casting kit for Marla. When she contacted me a few months ago to shoot her maternity pictures, she said she wanted to take pictures of them doing it together. I have a whole series taken during the event that are really great documentary shots- but they’re a little too private to post here 
Finally, I drove them to a spot I remembered passing by months and months ago. The old garage had great light.
Just finished up some “commercial” type shots and now am able to focus on Natalie’s. I have to get these done quick! My spring promotion was a pretty big hit- I have more sessions than I know what to do with in the next few weeks!
