Thank you to everyone who stepped in front of my camera this year. Your support and encouragement mean so much to me. In 2017 I was able to witness new little lives brought into this world, siblings meeting for the first time, a family’s first photo session in 11 years, swam in a pool of sprinkles, and documented love in so many forms. Thanks for sharing part of your year with me and happy 2018!
I don't think that I'll ever get used to going to the beach in September. #Oregonianatheart
"What is your favorite thing to do as a family?", I asked the kids. "Our favorite thing to do is HUG!" they yelled and giggled. How sweet is that?! I had the recent pleasure of photographing the winners of my free mini session as part of the fundraiser for the Cresenta Sports Association. These 5 year old twins welcomed me with such joy and were so eager to show me around their home. I'm pretty fluent in toddler / preschool kids so we had the best time playing, dancing and telling jokes (Question: What do you call a bear with no teeth? Answer: A gummy bear!) It was great to capture memories from this age before they start kindergarten in the fall (where does the time go??).
If you're interested in my holiday mini sessions, be sure to sign up for my newsletter here to get all the details or contact me to schedule a full session here
I always ask for the names and ages of the kids before a family session. Knowing the ages and stages helps me prepare with children's characters references (e.g. Thomas the Train) or silly jokes that help break the ice with kids so that they feel more comfortable with me. When mama Allison wrote back that she had 4 children (ages 9 -2), plus a newborn and grandparents who would be in a few frames, I started to sweat! This family couldn't have been more fun to photograph though. They trusted me, played and shared some of their favorite spots around their neighborhood. The fun they have as a family really comes through in these snaps. Welcome baby Dylan, you are so loved!
the new family of seven
grandfather and grandson
I love it when grandparents are a part of a session
the brothers!
I'm constantly amazed when I see animals in the middle of L.A.
proud grandmother
We had never been there before but decided to make the drive and explore. When we arrived Stella woke up grumpy which I was not expecting. "I'm her aunt, she'll be SO excited to see me!", I foolishly thought. Ha! Toddlers. After some animal chasing and other silliness she started to take in her surroundings and have fun. Some of my favorite photos from this session are of those where Stella is looking back for me with that smile of hers.
This sweet family moved into their new home only months ago and also welcomed a new baby named Alexandria. In addition to being awesome parents to their son Tommy and now Alex, Tom and Jennifer are also exceptional musicians (they both play trumpet!). Look for Tom the next time you see the L.A. Phil as the principle trumpet player. You'll see Jen all over L.A. too as she teaches and performs throughout the city. You can also learn more about resources for musicians on Jen's site Ask A Performer. Congratulations to this family of four!
This little cutie recently turned one! To help commemorate this milestone, this sweet family had me over to snap a few photos of life at home. Photos at home are quickly becoming my favorites. I love documenting family memories in the space that you love and feel most comfortable in. Here are a few of my favorites from their session!
Hey, SoCal! I'm opening up my calendar for mini family portrait sessions in October and November. There are two options this year:
Option 1 - Your location of choice, either at home or somewhere local and outdoors
Option 2 - Save the date and meet me at one of the following areas:
Thurs. 10/6, San Diego, Balboa Park
Sat. 10/15, Pasadena, Arlington Garden
Sat. 11/5, Los Angeles, Griffith Observatory
Sat. 11/19, Palm Springs, Location TBD
Mini sessions will be 25 min long. You will receive 15 edited high resolution digital files and print release approximately 1 week after your session. The images will be available for you to download and keep via private online gallery which will have the option to purchase prints. $200
Send an email for inquires and to save your spot! mary@marygrahamphotography.com