A Sweet Celebration: The Weatherholt Family’s Baking Session
When Kelly reached out about planning a Virginia Beach lifestyle photography session, she had one big request: something fun for her girls. With their dad currently deployed, traditional family photos felt like they would highlight his absence. Instead, Kelly wanted an experience that would bring joy, laughter, and a little bit of normalcy for her daughters—especially since they were also celebrating the youngest turning one!
We landed on the perfect idea: a baking session.
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Planning the Session
Understanding the family's situation was crucial. Kelly and I first spoke around the holidays. She spoke about how she was doing what she could to keep everything lighthearted for her girls, who were all experiencing their first deployment. When we came up with a baking session, Kelly knew baking a cake for the little one’s birthday would be the perfect excuse. But she did worry about the stress of baking with three kids (if you’ve ever baked with kids, you know what I mean). So we came up with the best plan – magic potion baking. The girls would have free reign to measure and pour to their hearts content. Magically, it all turned into a pink frosted (pre-baked) cake in the end!
Setting the Scene
On the day of the shoot, the kitchen was transformed into a lively baking studio. Colorful mixing bowls, an array of sprinkles, and the rich aroma of vanilla set the stage. Sitting around the kitchen table was the plan so the girls could be relaxed and express themselves freely without the constraints of a formal photo session.
Kelly wanted her daughters to feel free to be themselves, and that’s exactly what happened. The oldest took her role as "head chef" very seriously, carefully measuring ingredients and sneaking tastes along the way. The middle one? She was all about the fun, stirring with enthusiasm (and a little chaos). And the birthday girl? She dove headfirst into the experience—literally—with flour-covered hands and a smile that could melt hearts.
These candid moments were a photographer's delight. The genuine interactions and unposed smiles told a story of resilience and love. Each click of the camera captured not just an image, but a memory in the making.
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The Birthday Celebration
The session culminated in a small celebration for the youngest's first birthday. A pink cake was brought out, and the family gathered around to sing. The birthday girl, intrigued by the cake, reached out with chubby hands, eliciting smiles and laughter from her sisters. This intimate moment was a poignant reminder of life's milestones and the importance of cherishing them, even during challenging times.
More Than Just Photos
This session was more than a photoshoot; it was a testament to the strength and love within this family. Kelly's desire to create joyful memories for her daughters during a period of separation was both inspiring and heartwarming. The baking activity provided a sense of normalcy and connection, allowing the girls to engage in a beloved family tradition despite their father's absence.
For families navigating the challenges of deployment, finding ways to maintain connection and celebrate togetherness is essential. Activities like this baking session offer a therapeutic outlet, fostering joy and reinforcing familial bonds. It's a reminder that love transcends distance, and that meaningful moments can be created, even in the face of separation.
This looks like fun! - Contact Justine to book your own in-home family session.
A Note of Gratitude
I am deeply honored to have been part of this special day with Kelly and her daughters. Their warmth, resilience, and love were evident in every moment, and it was a privilege to capture these memories for them. I hope that these photographs serve as a source of comfort and joy, bridging the gap until their family is reunited.
Planning Your Own Session
If you're considering a family session during a deployment, think about activities that hold special meaning for your loved ones. Whether it's baking, crafting, or a favorite outdoor adventure, choosing an activity that resonates with your family's traditions can make the experience more personal and enjoyable. The goal is to create a space where everyone feels comfortable, allowing genuine moments to unfold naturally.
Virginia Beach Lifestyle Photography: Baking Session
Family sessions during deployment are not just about capturing images; they're about preserving the essence of your family's connection during a unique time. They serve as a reminder of the love that binds you together, providing comfort and strength until you're reunited. Embrace the opportunity to create new memories, celebrate milestones, and honor the bonds that hold your family close, no matter the distance.
If you're looking to create meaningful and joyful memories with your family during a deployment, consider scheduling a session that reflects your unique traditions and connections. As a Virginia Beach photographer, I'm here to help you craft an experience that honors your family's story and preserves these cherished moments for years to come.
