Sometimes life gets ahead of me. I am currently working on some exciting new projects and while I was gathering material, I had the pleasure of uncovering so many Family sessions from over the years that I have yet to blog! Like this early Fall session at beautiful Gamble Gardens; a session that came at such an extraordinary time.
I experienced such a wave of emotions even just revisiting these images with this incredible family. Our time together was special for so many reasons as we were still feeling the repercussions of that emotionally-charged 2020. Like many of us, I craved human connection so very much. I missed exchanging smiles, and conversation … and hugs. So seeing those kind faces, and experiencing their love for one another from behind the lens was moving on another level.
You could tell they had been through so much that year together. And with that stress and that tension, came almost this silent exhale of sorts. They appeared to just effortlessly fall into one another. There was that unique kind of comfortability and intense love that can be a blissful byproduct from emerging out the other side from a challenging situation. They are strong. They are resilient. And they feel such a deep love for one another.
And this is why I love Family sessions. Each year is different. Life is unpredictable. There can be bumps in the road that may send us off the path a bit, and others that may launch us into moments of complete bliss. I think that each piece deserves to be recognized and celebrated. These are the chapters of your family’s story. And there is no other story like it. Thank you Blacks, for spending the afternoon with me on the heels of such a trying time. Your love and light were not only such a pleasure to capture … but honestly healing in so many ways! ~ Kent Avenue Photography
Palo Alto, CA
Three sons … I mean, talk about blessed. Let me tell you, this mama is one fiercely loved mama. Those handsome boys have some major heart eyes for this wonderful woman who is equal parts strong and soft ~ an incredibly talented woman who loves as hard as she leads. This California Motherhood Studio Session was such a special one for so many reasons.
We were graced with the most incredible, light-filled space that day. And a studio manager who showed up in wonderful ways. I am a pretty simple person with a pretty simple workflow. I actually prefer it that way. Everyone works differently, and I have found over the years, it is this simplicity that allows me personally, the opportunity to slow down, enjoy the moment and really focus my attention on my clients. Being that I was traveling for these sessions, I did not have a couple of those larger studio items. However, the studio manager could not have been kinder or more accommodating. He rounded the corner with a smile and lent his precious time to help me (when he certainly did not have to). I was so grateful.
I draped our custom, hand-painted backdrop from the incredibly talented jrd arte shop over the large industrial-grade stand. Placing a cream boucle ottoman in place, I stepped back eager to let that brilliant light illuminate our simple vignette. Light has such power, doesn’t it? It warms, it lifts, and it brightens. Light + love, I can not think of a more powerful duo.
And this beautiful mama, she basked in that light with her boys. It highlighted every love-filled glance and every warm embrace. It fell upon beautifully tangled legs, tiny clasped hands, and soft smiling cheeks pressed closely together. It was so moving to witness and to see this mama’s unique relationship with each child unfold in a series of such soft moments. She is smart, and kind ~ and fully aware of her blessings. Thank you Martina for such a special afternoon and sharing these moments with me! I am still reeling. ~ Kent Avenue Photography
If you would like to capture some moments with your family, I would love to design a session that speaks to your heart! Learn more about our customized sessions here.
San Francisco, CA
This Charlotte Home Newborn Session was held right on the heels of Spring. This is always such a beautiful time of year ~ growth, new beginnings and new life. Little Alex, you could not have timed your arrival into the world more perfectly!
We decided to make the most of the fresh air and warm sunshine that early afternoon, setting up our hand-painted backdrop right on the open patio. Katie made us the most delicious charcuterie to enjoy as we listened to music and captured some images of the Hudsons with their firstborn child. I loved chatting and getting know this wonderful young couple more. Their story goes way back. It was pretty awesome to hear! Kinda like a movie really … and I am sucker for all those kinda movies! It was clear that the deep love and strong friendship they have built over the years is now woven ever so intricately into the fabric of their lives.
I know they are enjoying every bit of this handsome little guy who is already such a huge part of their family! They know that these early newborn days will go by so quickly. They are probably a bit of a blur already ~ a pretty exhausting (heart-swelling) blur. Those teeny, tiny features will soon change. His wispy eyelashes, little lips and papery thin nails will soon become a memory ingrained on their hearts. These are the memories, within that hazy glow, that I never ever want to fade.
My goal with Newborn photography is to help preserve these simple, blissful, fleeting moments. Nothing is rushed or forced. We take moments as they come, celebrating every last bit! Thank you so much Hudsons for sharing this wonderful time in your lives with me! ~ Kent Avenue Photography
Charlotte, NC
It was a bit chilly that early morning for this Charlotte Newborn Session. The dreamiest fog layer slowly lifted, piggybacking on the rising sun. It felt like the start to a brisk Fall day!
When we first moved to Charlotte in the midst of the pandemic, we ventured out to this sweet farm on the outskirts of the city. I admittedly missed home in California something fierce. My heart ached for that open, uninterrupted landscape, the mountainous backdrop, the tall trees, and that Pacific ocean that we knew so well on the west coast. So that day, when we drove those winding rural roads (windows down) out to the farm, I felt a happy, familiar exhale escape my body.
I had read about Mike and Shelley’s family-run, 100% solar powered Alpaca farm and was so excited to meet them and take a tour of their property at Good Kharma Ranch. They are two of the kindest people and their story about moving out to Iron Station really moved me so much. The respect they have for one another, what they value in life and how they have decided to spend their time is pretty wonderful. I loved learning more about their animals and was eager to return for not only another visit … but also a photo session. Fast forward a year, we brought my little nieces back to meet Mike and Shelley and their sweet alpacas. This time, we made plans to return yet again in a couple months for a local newborn session in the field.
And today, was finally that day. We were so excited for our visit and to celebrate little Sloane’s Charlotte Newborn session. We popped her in a cozy cashmere jumper/bonnet, and brought some soft Alpaca throws to keep her extra warm. She was so calm the entire time, snuggling comfortably into her mama’s arms and staring beautifully at the camera. After a bit, we thought perhaps she might want a little break, so we laid a blanket in the tall grass and placed her on her belly. However, rather than relax, she confidently propped herself up on her elbows and looked back up at me to find the camera again with that magnetic sparkle in her eyes! You are the sweetest little Sloane. Thank you for such a very special morning! ~ Kent Avenue Photography
Charlotte, NC
Of all the days on the calendar to gather for this coastal Carmel Family session, our date happened to fall on Mom & Dad’s anniversary! I felt especially excited (and honored) to capture their love and their three wonderful children that very special day. We headed out to the coast to celebrate all things family … and these two beautiful people who started it all.
The air was crisp and you could hear the ocean gently lapping at the shore. Brilliant slivers of warm light cut through the fragrant, coastal-lining Eucalyptus trees, creating beautiful shapes on that Pacific-facing beach below. We made our way up the embankment, meandering along the winding gravel pathways, through the tall trees, until we came to the entrance for that hidden gem of a spot. Holding tightly to the little one’s hands, we slowly and carefully worked our way down the steep set of rickety, wooden steps …. to the larger sandstone steps … until our toes finally hit the white sand of that whimsical, Peter-Pan-like, coastal alcove. There is rarely a soul down on this beach, but we surprisingly had the pleasure of some company that day, so we tucked ourselves back into a little protected pocket to have some fun and capture some images together!
Later as the sun began to slip closer towards the horizon, we worked our way back up the steps and out along the bluffs, to enjoy the sunset at a higher elevation and take in all the local birds who came to gather on the massive rocks in the distance. And by “all the birds”, I mean quite literally, all 3,000 of them. The spectacular view that late afternoon was really and truly like something out of a dream ~ the most beautiful lavender ombre sunset, a periphery of tall Cypress and Eucalyptus trees perched atop bluffs that dipped down to magical coves, magnificent rock formations, and a vast expanse of ocean whose surface danced with the twinkling light of the setting sun. It was breathtaking.
Funny enough, in all the loveliness that unfolded that day, the most beautiful moment to me by far, was at the very end ~ a moment that was a bit ‘uncomfortable’, but a moment that otherwise spoke volumes. On our walk back at dusk, there was a swarm of large bugs that seemed to descend on us. We attempted to shoo them away, however much to our dismay, they seemed to want to stick around and enjoy our company!
As we scooted down the path to try to get away from them, I saw Mom with one child in hand, look ahead to Dad glancing back with two children in hand. I was blown away with how quickly in that one moment (with very few words exchanged) they were able to convey to one other how to best care for and comfort their kiddos. You could feel right then and there what a force they were together, how beautifully entwined their lives were, how well they knew their children and how well they knew one another. It was awesome.
Thank you Stefanis for such a wonderful night. Thank you for celebrating your anniversary with me and for showing me the power of family. I really appreciate you all so very much. ~ Kent Avenue Photography
Carmel, CA
I was thrilled for the opportunity to return to San Francisco’s Legion of Honor for this beautiful Bay Area Family session! Perched high in the headlands above the Golden Gate Bridge, sits this handsome gem of French neoclassical architecture. While the art inside will leave you breathless, I will admit that the outside is equally as spectacular. And this wonderful family sure brought the magic.
We had brilliant sunshine that day and a bit of a breeze. I always arrive quite early to sessions and this day wasn’t any different. I was eager to sit outside in the courtyard and just take it all in.
When this wonderful family arrived, we moved our way around the open spaces enjoying the sun and exploring it’s little shady niches and pockets behind the tall repeat of pillars. I was so honored for the opportunity to photograph them together and appreciative of their willingness to show up … like really show up. There wasn’t any pressure to preform or be perfect. They let the afternoon unfold, laughed together and just genuinely enjoyed one another’s company! This always makes me more happy than I can express.
My goal is to not only collaborate and create Family art but create an opportunity for you all to be together, have fun and make memories! ~ Kent Avenue Photography
We didn’t realize we were making memories;
We just knew we were having fun.
~ A.A Milne
San Francisco, CA
A rugged landscape, brilliant sunshine that warmed from the inside out and a family whose blinding love and incredible energy spilled from every part of their being. This Monterey Peninsula Family session filled my cup in so many ways!
Admittedly, I had been terribly homesick for California. I was eager to return to see friends, visit those local artisanal spaces that held such a special place in my heart, and have the incredible opportunity to work with those families who had commissioned me to create meaningful family art for their homes.
After a fairly quick, cross-country flight (blissfully reading through all the design magazines that had piled up at home and one of Jay Shetty’s inspirational books) we arrived. The plane glided through the valley and descended through the undulating, golden hillscape. We slowly taxied to the gate and gathered our belongings as the door swung open and the ladder extended to the blinding pavement below. I emerged into the warm sunshine, feeling instantly calm as I drank it all in.
Every part of the country offers such unique experiences and perspective. It is the west coast that had me at the landscape. Those dramatic lines, curves (and crumbles) of that Pacific-facing topography make for such beautiful backdrops. I was staying a bit farther south with a wonderful friend during this trip, so I had the pleasure of shooting at some different coastal locations. I had hiked down this way for years, however it always seemed a bit far to take families for sessions. However, the timing of this trip was perfect.
We couldn’t have asked for better weather that afternoon. It was magnificent. I requested we meet a bit early so that we could take our time. I did not want anyone to feel rushed in the event that we had unexpected kinks with beach traffic. Surprisingly, we had plenty time! We decided to park and take the children out along the cliffside to see the seals below. Their open mouth smiles said it all. Awesome was an understatement ~ spiritual was more like it. I shook my head in utter disbelief trying to take it all in.
After some time enjoying the view, we hopped back in the car and made our way down along the coast to that sun-drenched beach. We basked in the sun capturing moments, while the children laughed, exploring the tide pools and the layers of bleached driftwood that had washed ashore.
Love, in my humble opinion, is one of the most rewarding elements to capture. There is something unique and incredibly powerful about every single stage. Young love has the power to move mountains. Bearing witness to this, breathes life into your soul. It is magnetic. It is open, uninhibited and wildly beautiful. That shared sparkle in their eyes that day said it all. Thank you Hrncir Family for inviting me into your world and allowing me to capture a little bit of that brilliant love you share! I was moved beyond words. ~ Kent Avenue Photography
Fall in love with someone who is both your safe place and your biggest adventure. ~ Atticus
Carmel, CA
Funny enough, even after 20 years in the Bay Area, I have somehow never managed to venture north to Chico. Until now.
The wonderful Diaz family had just welcomed their second son into the world. And after a few months enjoying all those blissful baby bits, they invited me up (to this hidden gem of a city) for this home Family session. I was so eager to spend time with them and capture some moments of their growing family of four!
The Diaz’s are that warm kind of family that make you feel welcome and special from the very first moment you meet them. Chelsey and Stephen are a true team in every sense of the word. They are equal parts kind and gratitude-based … and fiercely committed to family.
After many years serving as successful wedding photographers, they pivoted, working together to create an online passive income community called the Rainmaker Family. Focusing on e-commerce & digital products, their business model helps mothers create a steady source of income for their families (often 6 & 7 figure businesses) all while their babies enjoy nap-time! I loved learning a bit more about their trajectory and their commitment to both personal growth and that of prioritizing family above all else. I can not think of two individuals who are better suited to host such a community. Their website humbly states “We vowed to change our perception towards life a long time ago. When we started focusing on what we had instead of what we lacked, it was a powerful shift. When you live in an atmosphere of gratefulness, lack can’t survive.”
This experience with the Diaz Family was such a blessing. I have so much respect for these two incredible people ~ for the way they treat one another and for the life they are creating for their family. I look forward to following their journey! You made such an impact on me Diazs, thank you so much. For everything. ~ Kent Avenue Photography
Chico, CA
This beautiful St.Louis Family session at the handsome Missouri History Museum in Forrest Park was an exciting one for me! It was my very first visit to this vibrant city ~ and an opportunity to catch up with the wonderful Miller Family. I couldn’t wait to give them a hug and hear more about their recent relocation, teaming with heaps of adventure and great opportunity!
I had the pleasure of being introduced to the Millers many years ago when when my business was in it’s infancy back in the San Francisco Bay Area. Melissa has been incredibly kind to me over the years in helping to expand my network and grow my business. I am so grateful for all her help. I truly credit my gracious clients/friends for my growth; they are everything.
Following the pandemic, we both found ourselves relocating east from California. I am now based in Charlotte and the Millers in St.Louis. While I still travel back to the Bay Area quarterly so that I can continue to serve all my wonderful west coast clients, I had never traveled to St.Louis before. So this year, when they invited me to come see them in their new city (only a short flight away), I was so excited!
The consummate hostess, Melissa invited me to Casa Don Alfonso at the Ritz-Carlton for a little brunch that morning so we could catchup on all that had transpired over the past year. It was so nice to see her so happy in her new city. I loved hearing all about her beautiful design work, her husband’s exciting new job opportunity, their stunning home remodel and how the children are settling in, enjoying their school and their growing network of friends. It was brilliantly clear, that this was a very special time!
Later that afternoon, we met at the museum for this St.Louis Family session, capturing some moments together on those great limestone front steps. As the sun began to set, we made out way down the grassy hill, enjoying those final bits of light by the glistening lake. What a day and what a city. Welcome Home Millers ~ St.Louis is so lucky to have you! ~ Kent Avenue Photography
St.Louis, MO
Meaningful moments that highlight your connection ~ that is always my goal. I prepare so very much for each session. And it is this preparation, that later allows me during our time together to just let go and enjoy your company. Preparing is one thing … but then letting go is key; for me and for you. And this wonderful bunch embraced all of that for this timeless Family session that beautiful foggy afternoon at Filoli Garden!
When our walls come down a bit, I have the opportunity to capture honest snippets of your family dynamic. I hope these moments are as valuable to you as they are to me. When a daughter glances proudly at her mother, I see this. And when she rests comfortably in her father’s arms, I see that too. I would imagine you feel it but my goal is to provide you a tangible reminder of these fleeting memories. Because not only does time move incredibly quickly … but because I want you to truly see how very loved you are.
And Zahedi Family, your love was palpable … spilling from each and every celebratory frame. Thank you for inviting me to tell this little piece of your family’s story. I know there is heaps more where that came from. This was truly an honor. ~ Kent Avenue Photography
Woodside, CA
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