The Day Before Turning Two
Chances are… an all film photo session is exactly the right way to celebrate any/all family milestones!
It happens often where things come together in a way that feels like they always were meant to — this impromptu session lands on that list. I was just about to leave for my own family vacation when I realized I had several film cameras that only had a handful of shots left on each of their rolls. If you know anything about shooting film, it feels like gold. You’re intentional with how you use it + it’s something meant to be cherished. Film photography truly encourages a slower, more deliberate approach. This intentional process allows for greater focus on capturing genuine moments and expressions within the family dynamic. With all that in mind, I reached out to Jordan to see if she might be interested in helping me wrap up my mix match of film stocks; and lucky for me she was on board!
What I didn’t realize, until after we decided to shoot in just a couple of days, is that the day we spent together was Miles’ last day before turning two. It felt perfect that the timing came together the way it did.
Miles’ nursery had just recently been updated to reflect the more toddler stage he’s bloomed into — complete with a closest rack at his eye level, reading nook, and access to his big toys. We spent the first part of our time briefly playing musical instruments which quickly transitioned to reading, riding his dog rocker, and with the grand finale of vintage Thomas the Train toys being busted out. They shared with me that the trains we were playing with had been held on to and kept safe since Brock’s own childhood. Between that and Miles’ very own art lining the walls; this room felt as sentimental as it did cozy.
After some serious playing at home we switched gears and got ready for a scooter adventure down to their favorite local park. Miles took safety very seriously, as once the helmet was on, it was not coming off — family pictures or no family pictures.
Our stroll towards the park was a great chance to soak up all the charming character of these old Indianapolis neighborhoods. Then upon arriving at our destination we were surrounded by full trees of all colors and layered leaves beneath our feet.
There is something so truly special about choosing to spend your time in front of the camera doing what you would normally. Seemingly mundane daily events are the key to the magic of remembering life as it is now when you are looking back years from today.
As a family photographer, I am forever grateful to my people who allow me to show up and be free, loose, and artful in my approach. With film's inherent limitations, it can foster a sense of anticipation and surprise when waiting on the developing images. This time before receiving our final film negatives adds an exciting element of suspense. I’m thrilled to say we had thirty three frames available to us in this all film session, and I loved every single one.
This all film family photo session was captured via three different 35mm cameras along with limited Super 8 footage. Reach out today if you’d like a custom collection of mediums to document your own family moments.