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!

Brett's session was a dream come true, overflowing with love, laughter, and amazing light. 

For the most part, I just documented them hanging out — no prompting, no posing. Just a mom loving on her babies and vice versa — and that's exactly how these special sessions should be. 

I was so excited that Brett chose to take advantage of my Client Closet. That golden, mustard-colored dress looked incredible and provided the prettiest pop to her film and images.

For her voice overlay, Brett recorded a reading of Ella Wheeler Wilcox's poem "A Song of Life" — her wish for her children. I paired it with Tim Halperin's instrumental version of "Light and Wilderness." Make sure your sound is on to hear how well they paired!

Keepsake Motherhood Film sessions are becoming a quick favorite of mine, and I can't wait to create more in 2021. We all know moms are so often left out of the photographs (because they're the ones taking them), but I find that we're especially absent from the videos. 

If you're craving your own Motherhood Film, learn more here. I'm now booking for April 2021 and beyond! It's never too early to start planning for Mother's Day ;)

Laura Richards is a family photographer based in Charlottesville, Virginia. She specializes in lifestyle and documentary sessions, family films, and heirloom print art. Learn more about Keepsake Motherhood Films here.