Here’s the thing about the Duvals: I have a major photography crush on them because they’re just so damn interesting to have in front of my camera (even though Kelsey usually apologises at the end of the session for being so boring).
It’s impossible not to love these guys.
Noah has turned into this bruiser of a little guy who is rough and tumble, creative, playful, and who has the most unexpected gentle streak when it comes to his baby sister. And for what it’s worth, he also has a comically large appetite.
Laine is this expressive, curious, verbose little human with a natural interest in nurturing that really came on display during this session.
Kelsey and Jeff tag team parenting their kids with humour, grace, and a whole lot of empathy. It’s almost embarrassing how much I enjoy watching them live their roles as Mom and Dad. They just make it look so comfortable – and hilarious. Their wry humour usually has me laughing behind the camera because the scene usually plays out something like this: Noah stuffs his face with yet another granola bar as Kels simultaneously cracks a joke about sanity and tries to keep him from killing himself, while Jeff corrects Laine’s position in his lap to keep her from pas-de-bas-ing on his manhood and at the same time replies to her compliments about how handsome he is. That’s just how life goes for these guys.
The really special thing about this session was that I got to spend a full four hours with these guys because we were able to do this as a half day documentary session. There are so many little moments that happen over the course of half a day, and I’m so grateful to Kels and Jeff for giving me access to their little family for a longer period of time so that I could do a deep dive into the nuances of what life is like once you have that third baby and you’re outnumbered. It was also fun to see a cast of family characters drop in throughout the morning – that’s not easy to do in a shorter session because things get a little crowded and it’s nice to have some time for yourselves.
Maeve, the family you’ve chosen is one of the very best. I can already see glimpses of Laine’s facial expressions in you and know that you are going to have fun times ahead with your siblings while you find new and creative ways to try to kill yourselves, just to test your Mom’s nerves and your Dad’s sanity. You are so truly loved, little one. Adventure awaits.
I’m Ang. I’m a Cornwall, Ontario-based photographer offering maternity, child and family portraiture in and around SD&G. Laughter is important in my life and in my work. My clients experience informal, interesting shoots that make them feel connected to one another and full of life. Want to see more half day sessions to get an idea of just how many moments the average family packs into a few hours? Start here!
