How great is it when you can step back and take photos of your ex with his new family? Well, apparently pretty great. That’s exactly what I did, and I’m honestly glad I did. I had already photographed Andrew’s senior session and genuinely enjoyed it, so this felt like a natural next step, awkward natural, but still natural.

The session started with a quick icebreaker where I looked at Mandy and said, “Is this awkward or what…” And that’s when it happened. The wall came down, everyone relaxed, and we were off and running. I even got my ex to smile. Genuinely. Miracles do happen.

Ken Adam Park gave us that soft, beautiful light that makes everyone look good, and the session flowed easily from there. The kids, the dynamic, the little in-between moments, this family just worked, and it showed. It was a joy to capture not just portraits but real connection in this newly blended crew.

Thank you, Mandy and Chris, for trusting me to capture this for you. It takes a village to raise kids, and I’m so grateful for the village helping to raise mine.