Last weekend, Adam and I had the joy of photographing one of my favorite families, the Guillens—Eddy, Ashley, and their two kids, Lena and Zavi. This family holds a very special place in my heart. Since 2015, when I stepped in last minute to capture Eddy and Ashley’s wedding, I’ve had the privilege of documenting their life together. From shooting Zavi’s birth to our annual family sessions, each year brings new memories to capture.

This year’s session was particularly special. Fall colors were at their peak, painting the trees in vibrant shades of gold, red, and orange. However, the weather had a mind of its own—it was rainy, drizzly, and wet. While some might view these conditions as a challenge, Tanner, Holly and Adam and I saw them as a unique opportunity. The rain added an enchanting atmosphere to the fall landscape, giving everything a fresh, dewy glow and making the colors pop even more… and as you know Adam and I are always up for an adventure.

There's something truly magical about capturing the essence of a family through photography, especially when it involves a milestone moment like a senior session. This past week, we had the pleasure of photographing Sam and Ryder, Adam’s two sons, who came up to Kansas City from Carl Junction, for their first senior photo session of the year. We decided to explore the vibrant Crossroads District of Kansas City, with its colorful street art and bustling atmosphere, as well as visit the serene Berkley Riverfront Front for a change of scenery.

For years, I have had the privilege of knowing this wonderful family. Our journey began as members of the Shawnee Mission West Marching Band Family, where we quickly formed a strong bond. However our connection goes much deeper than our shared love for all things music, live performances and photography,

We found common ground in our unwavering dedication to our children. As parents, we understand the importance of supporting and protecting our kids as they navigate the challenges of growing up and discovering their true selves. Together, we have stood by each other, offering a shoulder to lean on and a hand hold during the tough times.

Meeting young men like Joel reaffirms my belief that the future is bright, that there is still so much potential and promise in the next generation. It's easy to get bogged down by the challenges and uncertainties of the world, but when I see the passion and drive in young people like Joel, I am filled with hope and optimism for what lies ahead.