Eight years ago, I picked up my camera with the dream of freezing moments in time — the tiny details, real smiles, and in-between moments that tell a family’s story. What I didn’t expect was how deeply I would fall in love with the people behind the photos.
Over the years, I’ve watched families grow from newly expecting parents to newborns, toddlers, and big kids with their own personalities. I’ve photographed first birthdays, maternity sessions, family milestones, and generations all gathered together. Some of these families have been with me since the very beginning of my business, and watching their journeys unfold through my lens has been one of the greatest joys of my life.
The Gift of Growing Together
One of my favorite parts of being a family photographer is the chance to grow alongside my clients. Every year brings something new — a new baby, a move, a milestone, or simply another season of life to capture.
When families return year after year, I get to see not only how their children have changed, but how they’ve grown as people — and how I’ve grown as a photographer. My style has evolved, my editing has refined, and my sessions have become even more focused on connection and emotion.
But what’s remained the same is my heart — the desire to capture love in its most genuine, unposed form.
The Story of Caitlin
One of the most special parts of this journey has been the relationships I’ve built, and one that means so much to me is with my dear friend, Caitlin.
We first met years ago when she reached out for what was supposed to be her birth photography session. But her little one had other plans and came so fast that I ended up meeting them shortly after for her daughter’s Fresh 48 session. From the moment we met, I knew she was someone special.
What began as a client relationship quickly turned into a real friendship. Caitlin has such a calm, genuine, and nurturing spirit. It’s impossible not to feel comfortable around her. Over time, she became an important part of my story too. She later became my doula for one of my own births, and I can’t say enough good things about her.
She was my rock during that experience. Encouraging, grounding, and so supportive. She has also been an incredible source of guidance and help with breastfeeding support for three of my children. Her knowledge, patience, and kindness made all the difference in those early newborn days that can feel both magical and overwhelming.
If you’re expecting or just beginning your motherhood journey, I can’t recommend Caitlin enough. She is not only an amazing doula, but a truly compassionate person who goes above and beyond for every family she works with.
Watching Her Family Grow
Since that first Fresh 48 session, I’ve had the honor of photographing Caitlin’s family many times through the years, through each new chapter. Watching her children grow, capturing the bond they share, and seeing how their love continues to evolve has been such a privilege.
Each time I see them in front of my camera, I’m reminded of why I love what I do. It’s not just about the photos. It’s about the stories behind them. Every laugh, every snuggle, every tiny hand reaching up. They’re all part of a family’s history, and it’s such an honor to be trusted to preserve it.
More Than Clients — They’re Friends
When I say I love my clients, I truly mean it. Many of them have become friends who I check in with throughout the year. I genuinely want to know how they’re doing. How the kids are, how work and life are going, what new adventures they’re on.
These connections mean everything to me. Photography isn’t just a business; it’s personal. I’m not here to simply take pretty pictures. I’m here to support families, celebrate them, and walk alongside them through the years.
That’s why my returning clients mean the world to me. When a family chooses me again and again, it tells me that they not only love their photos but also feel comfortable, seen, and valued. And that’s exactly the experience I want every session to be relaxed, joyful, and full of connection.
The Power of Time and Trust
Over the years, I’ve learned that photography is about so much more than images. It’s about trust. Trust to show up as you are. Messy hair, tired eyes, wild toddlers, and all and know that I’ll see the beauty in it.
It’s about being invited into people’s most intimate and emotional moments. Welcoming a new baby, capturing grandparents with grandkids, documenting milestones that come and go too quickly. Those moments are sacred, and I never take that lightly.
To me, it’s a privilege to watch families evolve. To be there when a newborn becomes a big sibling, when a mom who once nervously stepped in front of the camera now beams with confidence and joy. It’s the full circle of life, right there in my lens.
Looking Back and Looking Ahead
As I reflect on the past eight years, I can’t help but feel incredibly thankful. This business has given me more than I ever imagined. Not just beautiful images, but lifelong friendships, shared stories, and a front-row seat to the beauty of family life.
Every session is a reminder of why I started this journey — to tell real stories, to capture honest love, and to help families hold onto memories they’ll cherish for a lifetime.
To all the families who have trusted me through the years, thank you. Thank you for inviting me into your lives, for coming back year after year, and for allowing me to be part of your story. You are truly the heart of what I do.
Here’s to many more years of laughter, love, and watching your families grow — together. 💕
If you’re looking for a Cleveland or Medina family photographer who values connection and long-term relationships, I’d love to capture your family’s story too. Whether it’s your first session or your fifth, I promise to make it feel personal, relaxed, and full of heart. Contact me Here!
For more on Caitlin and what she has to offer check her website here and view my blog post: Top 5 Lacatation Consultants Near Cleveland. You wont regret it!
