I looked out the window the morning of their session as a scary thought crossed my mind: "Did I tell them the wrong time?" It was pitch-dark, no sign of a sunrise in sight, and my sleepy mom-brain was second-guessing itself again. 

But by the time I reached our gorgeous Charlottesville location, my worries had subsided; a golden sunrise was on its way. 

The hour that followed was a joyful celebration of Eleanor's first year of life — a year that, for her parents, represented so much light during a time of darkness. We laughed, played, and explored. I was able to capture the sweetest baby babble.

The final product is a moving, 3-minute testament to the love Eleanor's parents have for her, and the realization that even in her young life, their daughter has taught them so much.

To Mary Shea and Nick — thank you so much for trusting me to capture this season of life for you guys. I know Eleanor will treasure your messages to her forever and ever.

Laura Richards is a family filmmaker and photographer in Charlottesville, Virginia. Reach out to book your own session for 2022!

I'm skipping ahead in my to-blog list to feature the beautiful Sullivan family!

When she first reached out, Brittany told me she was dying to update their family photos. I think this is such a common feeling when you have middle school-aged children — gone are the days of documenting every milestone, smile, and cute thing they do. They begin to have schedules and lives of their own, and the day-to-day starts to feel a little more hectic.

I'm so happy the Sullivans decided to take an evening to just be together — to laugh, dance, play, and snuggle. No matter what age your children are, that's what family sessions are all about!