A joyful motherhood session on film | Charlottesville Family Photographer

There's no better feeling as a family photographer than receiving a text that reads, "These are exquisite. They capture exactly how I feel about being with my children!"

This motherhood session marked my second with Laura and her lovely, kind, energetic kids (though the first with baby No. 4!). We chose the same location as our first session, which, I believe, now makes it a special spot for them :)

Because this was officially a keepsake video session, I shot all of their photos exclusively on 35mm film, so I wouldn't have to bother toggling between the video and photo settings on my camera. Not only did this keep things simple, but it gave us that beautiful, nostalgic feeling that only film can offer.

When I got the scans back, I was immediately struck by how joyful Laura looks. Pure motherhood joy, brought on by living in the moment, soaking in the love and energy of her kids, and trusting that I will see them fully. I hope that her kids look back on these photos decades from now and know just how happy they made their mama.