Journey Through Life Blog

I recently had the chance to photograph this sweet family during their son's senior session.  When Michelle called me to do Daniel's senior session I offered to photograph her family at the end of the session.  She loved the idea.

I have known this family for almost 10 years, my husband has known them even longer.  Just writing it seems hard to believe it has already been that long.  I had the chance to teach with Doug at Norfolk Christian years ago and was able to teach his daughter Katherine.  I even had the opportunity to do Katherine's senior portraits a few years back.  So I was really excited to photograph Daniel for his senior session in August.  As many might know this is an incredibly giving family and they have a true heart for the Lord.  Some of you may also know that they received some not so pleasant news this August.  

That is why I am here... to tell you their story and give you a way to help if you would like.  

The #1 way you can help is PRAYER.

Here is their story:

Doug Sandwell was diagnosed last month with stage 4 lung cancer.  The news came as a great shock to his family, including his wife and 4 children, since he is a non-smoker and is only 45 years old.  As Bible teachers at Norfolk Christian, Doug and Michelle have dedicated their lives to reaching young people with the gospel of Jesus Christ, and as their medical bills begin mounting we want to bless them with some financial support.

 The #2 way you can help is through the Mini Session Portrait Fundraiser I am hosting.

These sessions are 30 minutes long and each package is all inclusive, meaning it covers sitting fee and product.  There are 3 packages from which to choose.  A portion of each package sold will go directly to the Sandwells to help them with their medical bills.  This would be a perfect time to get an updated family picture, capture a baby milestone, an individual portrait, etc. So not only would you be checking something off of your to do list you would be helping another family in need.  

Things to know:

Location:  Virginia Tech Arboretum at 1444 Diamond Springs Road  Virginia Beach, Virginia

When:  November 9, 2013

Time:  Slots available

1:00
1:35
2:10
2:45
3:30
4:05
4:40
5:15 

Tips:  

• Not intended for newborns or senior portraits
• If a large group (more than 6) I would suggest booking 2 slots (2 packages required)
• 20% non-refundable retainer fee to hold spot
• Please arrive 15 minutes before your session begins to ensure the event runs smoothly
• Drinks and snacks will be provided
• Once you are registered I will contact you to discuss your ideas for the shoot and will email you a model release/contract
• You may choose online gallery proofing or in person proofing

Packages:

      1.  $ 125

• 30 minute session
• 1 Digital Image
• Print Release
• 2 5x7 Gift Prints

      2.  $ 235

• 30 minute session
• 3 Digital Images
• Print Release
• 2 5x7 Gift Prints
• Mounted 11x14

      3.  $ 375

• 30 minute session
• 5 Digital Images
• Print Release
• 20 Christmas Cards
• 11x14 Wrapped Canvas 

Related Links:

• The family's caringbridge page:  http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/dougsandwell
• Event on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/events/566256250088096/?ref_dashboard_filter=upcoming
• The VA Tech Arboretum:  http://www.arec.vaes.vt.edu/hampton-roads/contact/index.html
• Tips for preparing for the session:  http://www.journeythroughlifephotography.com/blog/post/14.html
• Daniel's Senior Session:  http://www.journeythroughlifephotography.com/blog/post/19.html

When I taught at Norfolk Christian I taught this handesome guy's sister and was able to do her senior session a few years ago.  I was so excited that his mom contacted me to do his senior portraits.  His sister is gorgeous and full of life.  Daniel is the handsome version.  I told him he looks like he belongs in a paparazzi magazine because he could totally fit in as an english royal.

I wasn't kidding.  He really looks prince worthy.  We started off at east beach in Norfolk where I also had the chance to photograph his awesome family.  That is for another post.  

He just rocked every shot.  I didn't have to do a lot of leading.  He was a natural.

We finished our session at the Chesapeake Arboretum for a more country type feel.  He couldn't have picked a better outfit to go with the scenery.  

Coming soon:  Fall Mini Sessions to support his family as his step-father is going through Lung Cancer.  Stay tuned to see how you can help.  Find more information here.

Did I ever tell you how much I love NEWBORNS?  Well, imagine how much I love twins.  I had an awesome time photographing these precious babies that were only 7 days new.  I had an awesome assistant Candy who made this session even easier.  I loved how they would just so naturally snuggle right into each other.  

My studio was all warmed and ready to go for these sweet munchkins.  I even got to capture a sweet memory of them with their big brother and sister, who were awesome by the way. 

They did a great job posing with their new baby brother and baby sister.  It was a relaxed setting and plenty of snacks and juice boxes were provided, for which I think big brother was very thankful.  I could tell that big sister was going to be a huge help to her mommy and daddy.

I just love sweet baby feet.

Newborn sessions are best between days 6-10.  Plan your newborn session in your 2nd trimester to make sure we leave room in our calendar for your due date.