My heart is heavy.
In my 28 years as a photographer, I have had the privilege and the heartache of having taken the last images of many beautiful people.
Some knew their time was coming, and wanted portraits before treatments, or time, changed them further. Their images were carefully planned to draw out the emotions and love they shared with others.
Some were already sick, but were oblivious to what was happening inside them. Their images are filled with a joy not yet heavy with grief, a cherished glimpse to their life before.
Some were old, and full of years, and chose portraits to celebrate the new young lives that crowded around their feet and filled their hearts with fresh joy. These multigenerational images hold deep meaning for families just thankful for the gift of each day they are still together.
But some were not old. And some were not sick. And their passing makes the floor feel unsteady. A life we just were not ready to have leave us.
This week, I have beautiful clients mourning the loss of a child.
This week, I have beautiful friends mourning the loss of a friend, and mother.
This week, I have prepared images for funeral homes, images for memory books, and stories for a memorial service I'm not sure I have the strength to get through.
My heart is heavy.
But I do not mourn as those who have no hope.
And realizing we are never guaranteed another day only deepens my desire to create artwork not just for my clients, but also for me. I want portraits that will stand the tests of time, or grief, or loss.
So today, I am sharing about my grief.
Tonight, I will capture an engaged couple brimming with excitement about their future.
This week, I will hang the five new individual portraits of my children in my home. I am excited to share them, so that I do not look back and say I was too busy.
I will not let fear of the unknown rob me of what I can do today.
This season, I have six custom sessions still available. If you have been waiting to schedule, hit reply. You don't need to wait any longer to celebrate what you have right now.
I would love to create with you, and celebrate your family, today.
with love,
Kat