07/10/2025
Take the picture..
Over the last few days I have been away surrounded by family, some being those I haven't seen in a while, unfortunately to mourn the loss of a family member (relation to me: my cousin, Michael.). - And, I think we all generally know how precious time is; but its times like these that really brings more attention to that, and you find yourself holding on to those around you a bit tighter.
There was a moment when I was with my Aunt as she was putting together photo boards of Mike for the funeral. And we were looking at them together and she was telling me little stories behind each one; some silly, some sweet, some extra sentimenal. And, again even though this is something I have always said/thought about, it was just really highlighted in this moment; and I said, "This is why I love what I do."
One day, photos are going to be all that we have left (at least for now πβ€οΈβοΈ). That is a big reason why I don't limit the amount of photos I deliver. It may not be 'best business practice'; but I dont want to withold good, beautiful/memorable/what could be sentimental photos. Whether it be because all the shots were great and I can't pick just one because I love them all π
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(if you're a client of mine you know lolol), or because I dont want you to have to choose between another beautiful bridal portrait from your very special day and grandma laughing untill her dentures are popping out πβ€οΈ
Some day, these photos are all we are going to have to look back on. To aid in jogging the memories of these moments, and help tell the stories of our loved ones.
So to the average joe,
Take the picture.
I dont care if it's from your phone, a clip on your old tape recorder, a disposable camera, your kids tablet. I dont care if your wife is wrestling with the kids and says "noo don't take my picture I look bad", or if your dad is out hollering at the boat he's trying to fix up, or your sibling is struggling with the gum stuck in their hair;
Take the picture.
And to the fellow photographer,
Capture Everything.
Down to the littlest grin, the tears from the kiddo that just isn't feeling it, the hand on the cheek of a loved one, the little t**h squeeze from mom to dad, the forehead touches and soft smiles, the grumpy dad that doesn't like taking pictures, the mom fixing up her little girls pig tails, the grandma kissing her grown grandaughters nose... the laughs, the smiles, the cries, the tears, the hugs, the jumps, the falls, the chaos.
Capture it all.
Lets all take a bit more time for eachother, love harder, be more present, be more positive and loving (this world is so full of negitivity, we need it), and live & love like theres no tomorrow... because you just never know.
Im going to miss my cousin...and I am sad for the loss and for the heartbreak my family is going through. But as was said, this isnt goodbye; it's just see you later β€οΈβοΈ
I love you all and pray for love and peace over absolutely everyone π
Go have a beautiful day β€οΈβ€οΈ
- Angel (your friendly neighborhood photographer) π