Charlotte Family Photographer // The Ganzerts // Charlotte, NC

Many years ago, I volunteered to photograph families to raise money for a Charlotte, NC adoption organization. I met many families in a short few hours and had a great time. 

About a year after this, one of the families reached out to see if I would come take photographs of her family at their home honoring the documentary style of photography that I cherish. This was one of my first real clients and I was so nervous and equally excited. 

It was just as I hoped…a relaxed afternoon together getting the kids dressed and ready to get outside.  (She had a second baby boy since we had last seen each other!) 

One moment that stood out and still stands out today was when the older brother had just put his shoes on, but wanted to catch the last bit of Paw Patrol. He is laying on the couch with his feet hanging off the side (so as to not dirty the cushions) and now that I have a son of my own, this could not be more relatable. There is something about little boys that is just so wonderfully unique. 

We headed to the park by way of a beautiful path. Mom, Dad, baby brother and big brother, and the pup were all in tow. While there, I was able to witness (and photograph) the baby’s first time in a swing! I was so elated and so were mom and dad as documenting times like this “first” so beautifully doesn’t happen all that often. 

The walk back home was as equally eventful as the way there and before we knew it, we had made it back home, taken a family photo on the porch and it was time for me to head home. 

A few short years later, I got a note again from Tonya and she was inquiring again about a session with me. I was beside myself to be able to photograph this family again. This time would again be different as they just completed a huge renovation on their home and it had doubled in size and looked nothing like it did when I was there last. 

This time we stayed home, hit some baseballs off a tee in the backyard, ate ice cream, and ran around and played inside. Tonya also surprised me half way through the session by letting me know she was pregnant with her third child, a girl! (I hope to meet sweet P sometime soon!)

I am constantly in awe of the beauty in the smallest moments that unfold in front of my lens. How lucky am I that families invite me into their homes, conduct business as usual, and in turn reap the benefits of sharing their love and connection with each other with me who gets to reflect it back on them with my images. 

Thank you Tonya. 

Without you, I may have stopped pursuing this dream of mine. I always am honored to be able to show you and your family the extra that is in your ordinary.