The Jatko family is one of my oldest clients, trusting me with their family photos well before I was a professional, and I always love working with their family.  Krystal has been a true supporter of my photography and a great encouragement to me.  We had to reschedule their photo shoot from a couple weeks ago because of rain, but we had beautiful weather last night (though I'm still ready for Fall).  We chose the Thompson station train depot for their shoot because four year old Zafer loves trains . With a six year old, a four year old and a toddler, it certainly was a lively shoot with lots of chasing.  This is what is beautiful about outdoor lifestyle photography...can you imagine this crew at a formal portrait studio? 

I shot Rinoa's birth story...one of the most exciting entrances into this world that I have witnessed.  I cannot believe she's one and a half already.  She has become quite the ham, cheesing for the camera upon command.  I guess that's what happens when I start training them from the moment they are born.  This is one of my favorite ages of children to work with...they are so full of life and curiosity.  And they don't know how to act unnaturally.  I love capturing their growing little characters. Ms. Rinoa did NOT like her shoes, so we indulged her and let her leave them off for most of the shoot.  Remember...if there is a toddler, then the toddler is in charge at the photo session.  LOL.

Working with a family with three young children is always challenging, but it's also very different when working with a special needs child.  I have to say though, that working with four year old Zafer is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job. One of the biggest struggles is that he does not like to be held or confined, and he doesn't often show an interest in looking up at me.  I've found it best to try to find things that do interest him, which so far has been trains, giving me fist bumps, and the newest discover...counting.  

Big sister Melody has it all together and was a perfect princess for our session.  Her favorite part was when I asked her to run toward me just having a good time.  She asked if we could do that again so of course I agreed.  Portrait sessions should be fun. Aren't her eyes just gorgeous?  All the children in this family have such beautiful eyes.

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