Shooting this lovely 3-generation family was a breeze, as being fellow South Africans, they understood my weird accent and expressions.  They also could laugh on command, pretty darn well.

As a photographer, one of my stresses is that I end up looking back on the year and I realise, I have very few decent photographs of my own children. So 4 years ago, our family started a little tradition. It all came about, when I was asked what I wanted for my Birthday. I asked for time. Happy time. Now this has become my favourite gift from my children. They give me a gift certificate for one hour of their time each year, with small print that reads: "We promise to co-operate happily, without moaning at our yearly family shoot!" I definitely wish we had started this tradition a little earlier in life. I so appreciate it and it makes the whole process so much better! This idea could work for many things and not just photography. For instance if your children are not ones to go along happily on family walks or outings that are important to you, the time gift could be used for that too. (I think I will organise that for Father's Day!) In fact, there are a few more conditions that could be added to the small print. ie: "Recipent of this gift can decide on the time and place that this gift will be used." "Givers promise to not moan about the cold, the heat, tiredness or hunger." "Expiry: Never." So whether this becomes your Birthday, Mother's Day or Christmas tradition, One hour of Happy Time, is great gift on your special day!

A fall family shoot with three very well behaved boys!

Celebrating 50 years of marriage is a wonderful reason to come together as a family.  

When things change within a family, like a child leaving home after graduating, it's a wonderful time to have some family photos taken.  It was a lovely morning and we had lots of fun with this family down at the river.