“The Session That Reminded Me Why Photos Matter So Much”

“When Photos Become Legacy: Chex, Comanche, and the Power of Intentional Sessions”

There are some sessions that change the way you see your work forever.

Recently, I had the honor of photographing a client with her two horses, Chex and Comanche. It was more than just a photoshoot—it was a chance to capture love, loyalty, and a lifetime of memories before saying goodbye.

Both horses had been faithful companions for years. They carried her through seasons of life, through long rides, quiet mornings, and countless little moments that often go unseen. And now, it was time to honor them one last time—with photos that would forever tell their story.

As a photographer, these are the moments that humble me the most. There’s something sacred about holding space for both love and loss, about pressing the shutter knowing this exact moment will never happen again.

I’ve had a few sessions like this in my career—sessions where we all knew one of the family members wouldn’t be here next time. And every time, I’m reminded that photography is so much more than smiles and poses. It’s legacy. It’s memory. It’s the tangible reminder of God’s goodness even in the hardest goodbyes.

That’s why I want to encourage you to think outside the box when it comes to your own photos. Family photos don’t have to fit the mold. They can look like a sunset ride with your horse, baking in the kitchen with your kids, or simply sitting on the porch with the people (or animals) who make your world feel like home.

When I look back at sessions like this one, I’m reminded of how deeply photos can speak. They hold laughter, connection, even the ache of goodbye—and somehow, they remind us that love doesn’t end just because a chapter closes.

Chex and Comanche’s session wasn’t just about loss. It was about gratitude. It was about celebrating a bond that had shaped a life. That’s what intentional photography is all about—not just freezing time, but honoring it.

If there’s something or someone in your life that means the world to you—don’t wait. Celebrate it now. Capture it now. You don’t need a “perfect” season or a special occasion. You just need a story that matters to you.

And when you look back on those images one day, I hope they remind you of God’s gentle presence in every season—the joyful ones, and the tender ones too.

Let’s create something real. Something lasting. Something that tells your story with heart, honesty, and grace.