I firmly believe in continuing education, whether it is formal study, or informal seminars, meetings, or conferences. Life IS a continuous learning process. Over a year ago, I donated a photography session to the Lansing Community College Scholarship Fund Auction, which I believe is a very worthwhile endeavor. I placed a one year expiration date on the offer, which expired December 1, 2010.
I had heard nothing from the successful bidder and was becoming concerned since no arrangements were being made to use the photography package. In mid summer, I received a call from the successful bidder (Rachael), and she explained that she would like to use the photography package to take some photographs of her siblings family. Unfortunately, circumstances did not allow the session to happen, the December 1 deadline passed, and I heard nothing from Rachael. I felt very strongly that a generous donor should not be penalized for missing a deadline and contacted Rachael to say that I would extend the deadline so that she had the opportunity to use the photography package.
A few days later Rachel contacted me and she told me that her family would be gathering at Christmastime at her family's home, and how she would appreciate family photos being taken. I agreed immediately, photographing a family is such a fun event! Subsequently we talked about locations, and whether it would be indoors or outdoors etc. I was assuming it would be Lansing. I knew that Rachel thought she might be "pushing the envelope" when she asked me if I would be willing to travel to Wheeler, an hours drive from Lansing. I agreed to travel to their home and we made the final arrangements for 10:00 AM on Christmas Eve day.
When I arrived, I was greeted warmly at the door. I was immediately impressed and enveloped with the love, gratitude, and generosity that this family exhibited. The family home was beautiful, and was in a wooded country setting. A warm fire was burning in the fireplace and there was a beautiful mantle of white snow on the ground. I spent a couple of hours photographing the family both indoors and outdoors and from various angles and in various configurations. I knew I captured some great photos. The time passed very quickly!
The family prepared a plate of goodies for my trip back to Lansing. During the hour of driving I relished the fun that we had as I was listening to Christmas music being played on the car radio. Incidentally, the plate of goodies did not make it to Lansing!
It was such a good feeling to photograph this family, I know the photographs have a special meaning to them and it was my pleasure to memorialize the event.
I prepared a 13" X 19" collage print of some of my favorite photos which I will be giving to the family. Here is a representation of that collage.
Thank you Rachel for allowing me to spend time with you and your family.
No comments:
Post a Comment