Debbie McDowell’s Family Portrait Session at Paletta Lakefront Park and Mansion, Burlington, ON

Photo sessions with families and toddlers provide rich settings for learning not just about photography, but of how self-reliant children are. Stepping out into the world is not just a way of seeing what a child does, it is literally something they do every day and the manner in which they do it with fresh perspective and an open heart are the beginning chapters of a beautiful, courageous story. It is always a treat to see a child’s personality develop over time, in such a way that they need little direction in photo shoots, as if they already know how they want to be remembered for the wonder and heart they brought to each day. It’s amazing what the camera can capture in a simple moment and freeze in time to cherish for years to come.

 This innocent youth is easy to underestimate; as parents we often try to offer the softest landing place for all the lessons which life will have unfold before our children. It is here however, that we learn as adults, our own lessons about the power of siblings and the strong bond that adds so much to that safe place we wish to create. Parenting is a great exercise in balancing the need to make sure that a child will be taken care of in the world, with knowing the precise moment that they need to soar and learn the power their own strength contains. This strong bong was easily seen between siblings Isla and Ava throughout the photo session, going about their connection in a subtle manner.

Letting children be their curious selves is no easy feat! Debbie and Jason made the task look effortlessly simple however, being totally in tune with their children’s needs almost as soon as they came up. Few things make a childhood so rich as feeling protected in a father’s arms while nurtured by mother’s loving gaze and gentle touch. It’s worth cherishing the small moments that our little ones look to us so much, so that we can remind them of the deep well of love, understanding and compassion as life begins to mold them into human beings more breathtaking than we originally knew.

Photos taken November 11th, 2012 by Dragi Andovski, text written by Cheryl Costello, published at ©DA Photography.

Location: Paletta Lakefront Park and Mansion, Burlington, ON

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