Vienna’s Cornwall winter first birthday photos happened immediately after the lockdown ended – incredibly lucky timing for a birthday, given how unpredictable the past year has been for working with photographers!
Nick and Chantal have embraced documentary sessions in a way that is touchingly honest and genuine, which makes every session with them so rewarding. It makes me laugh, though, to know that after a session they sometimes still struggle to believe that their everyday life, on its own, is interesting enough to make beautiful photos. After I left, I had a funny message exchange with Chantal that is basically summarised like this:
Chantal: We were so boring and awkward.
Nick: ANG SAID EVERYONE SAYS THAT!
Me: EVERYONE SAYS THAT!
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I’m going to say this one more time for the folks at the back:
YOUR EVERYDAY LIFE IS PERFECT.
Documentary mini sessions last 90 mins. I aim to deliver a gallery of 45ish images. That means that, on average, I have to find something beautiful about your life – a gesture, an exchange, a facial expression, a tumble, a hug, a tantrum, a tickle, a facepalm, a spill, a laugh – every two minutes. I assure you that there are unique little moments happening in your life far more frequently than that and you probably don’t even notice them anymore.
A successful documentary session means understanding that you don’t have to perform for the camera (even if it feels like you should because we’re all taught to do this). It means chatting with me, playing with your kids, and generally giving me access to your real life so that I can do my thing. That’s it!
At-home family photo sessions don’t tend to be loud and raucous affairs (unless you’re loud and raucous people). In fact, if you’re used to wrangling your kids for a portrait session, a documentary family session might even feel eerily calm. So, if I walk out the door and you feel like you were boring and awkward, don’t worry: I’ve got your back. ;)
In the case of the Alguires, “doing my thing” meant noticing and celebrating the quiet, sometimes subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle :P ) actions and exchanges and documenting those for Vienna. The outstretched arm needed for balance just before falling while learning to walk. The way that Dad just barely touches those tiny toes while making room on his lap to read a story. The look on Mom and Dad’s face when Brooks almost cannonballs on Vienna’s head. Brooks’s ability to stop everything in the midst of the action just so he can kiss Mom before carrying on with his activity. And cake – well, cake comes with all kinds of little details all on its own, particularly when Cruz is involved. Ohhhhhhhh… and the drool. Because being one means drool. EVERYWHERE.
Vienna, you are such a delight. You’re inquisitive and busy and brave and FULL of grins (and drool). You’re also going to catch your brother by surprise when he realises one day that he doesn’t rule the roost anymore. ;)
Here’s a look at our time together:
Does it seem like a documentary first birthday session might be perfect for you and your little one? Whether you’re having a styled summer party along the St Lawrence River or a casual winter afternoon at home in Cornwall, first birthday photos with Moment.us are a beautiful way to mark the celebrations. Get more info about the details of my services and pricing here or contact me to ask any specific questions you might have! I would love to hear about your family and tell your story. Really want to book, but feeling a little afraid? Here’s another example of how easy these sessions really are!
