A return to Central New York, a familiar face in front of my camera, and a beautiful maternity session along the shores of Lake Ontario.
One of my favorite parts of going back to Central New York is catching up with people I’ve photographed over the years. Krystal is one of those people. We’ve worked together several times, so getting together again felt more like seeing an old friend than meeting a client. This time, though, she wasn’t alone. Tommy joined us as we celebrated the next chapter in their lives as they prepare to welcome their child.
We met at Fair Haven State Park, one of my favorite places to photograph when I’m home. Between the dunes, beach, and shoreline, there’s no shortage of beautiful backgrounds. We started in the tall grass before making our way to the water as the evening light softened.
The session had one unexpected challenge. The wind never really let up. It made Krystal’s dresses look amazing, but it also wanted to take my off-camera strobe with it. More than once we had to stop, reset the light stand, and keep an eye on it before the next gust came through. That’s part of working on the beach. Sometimes you have to work with Mother Nature instead of against her.
Despite the wind, everything came together. Tommy and Krystal were relaxed, playful, and completely focused on each other. Those are always my favorite sessions because the connection is real. I can guide people into good light and suggest poses, but the genuine smiles, quiet moments, and laughter are what make the photographs memorable.
As the sun dropped lower, the sky gave us one last gift. We finished with dramatic portraits by the water and a silhouette against the sunset that was the perfect way to end the evening. Those final images remind me why I never rush to leave before the light is gone.
Krystal and Tommy, thank you for trusting me once again. It means a lot that you’ve invited me back to document a milestone in your lives, and I can’t wait to meet your little one.
If you’re thinking about booking a session, I’d love to work with you. Whether it’s maternity, beach portraits, fashion, fitness, personal branding, or another milestone worth celebrating, let’s create images that tell your story. Whether you’re in Central New York, Hampton Roads, Richmond, or anywhere in between, I’m ready when you are
Photography by Mark K 