I don’t know where to start in talking about this family. Do I talk about my first impression upon walking inside their restored Victorian house? Because my jaw might have dropped a little once I did. And then I might have spent the rest of the evening trying to convince April that she needs to submit photos of it to Design*Sponge because her knack for mid-century decor deserves to be seen by a national audience. Or maybe I should talk about how sweet April is? How, if I could have, I might have just pulled up a chair on that big front porch of theirs and spent the night chatting away with her and her sweet-as-can-be husband, Dustin, about life, their son, Jack, our photography businesses, travel, design … you name it.

But I can’t create this post without talking about the LOVE I felt among this trio. The love that’s going to grow in a few more weeks after April gives birth to their second son. This was one of those sessions where I felt it. Magic. Behind the camera. In front of me. Watching these two tickle Jack. Hold hands as they walked through the field. Snuggle in tight without me asking them to. With every look Dustin gave his sweet wife, I just couldn’t quit snapping away. It’s a session I won’t soon forget and a demonstration of affection that made me hug my own husband extra tight when I got home that night—grateful for the love I have in my own life and how this session reminded me of this and all I hope to look forward to in the years to come.

WATCH THEIR SLIDESHOW

Jack and Dustin are adorable together. When they were laying on this blanket and Dustin was making up stories for Jack about firemen and dump trucks and all the things little boys love, I had the biggest smile on my face behind the camera. I adore men who are doting fathers. It’s just the sweetest thing. Happy belated Father’s Day Dustin! I’ve photographed a lot of papas throwing their kiddos into the air, but this might be the best action shot of it yet! (PS- Don’t you love Jack’s red Converse? :) ) Do I even have to tell you that I ADORE both of these next two images? While April and Dustin went inside to freshen up (oooh boy was it HOT out) and change, Jack and I hung out for a bit in the grass. Naturally, a game of hide-and-seek ensued. And then it was time to focus in on capturing this beautiful time in Dustin and April’s lives as they get ready to welcome a second Smith to their home. This shot is just the sweetest! I can’t even begin to pick a favorite from this session because I love all of these so much, but I’ll tell ya, this one’s up there! Dustin’s one request was to take some shots of the family in front of their property. And that spectacular house of theirs. Which I LOVED. Or did I already say that? :) And April’s wish? That the storms that loomed before and during our session would make way for the sun. April, I’m SO glad we were able to make that happen for you guys! THANK YOU SMITH FAMILY …I had SUCH a blast getting to know you guys. I hope I get to photograph your family again some day!

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