When you’re a military family moving every couple of years, it can be hard to find your people. And when you do find them, you inevitably have to say goodbye way too soon. It’s one of the hardest parts of this lifestyle. But, while the goodbyes are tough, the friendships are absolutely worth it. I’ve photographed the Freunds four times in the last year and am excited to share their final Washington DC photography session before our inevitable see-ya-later in a few months.

A Washington DC Photography Session

Amanda really wanted the epic DC backdrop for their family photos to commemorate their time in DC. With all the construction going on downtown, the Jefferson Memorial made the most sense. We met there on a beautiful Saturday morning before it got too hot and too crowded. All three kiddos came with their smiles and were ready to play.

We started on the steps of the Jefferson with the entire family, one of my favorite angles at this location. I love the photos of them interacting with each other. Amanda and Lou were playing with Bode. Steven was trying to convince Max not to run away. And while this was happening, unbeknownst to us, someone else was trying to invite themselves into the Freund family!

After the full family shot, Steven walked down to the stroller to find a squirrel. And not just any squirrel. A curious, hungry, can’t-be-bothered squirrel who opened the Freunds’ diaper bag, ate half a granola bar, and then proceeded to eat the crumbs out of their stroller. The kids were enthralled, the parents were confused, and I just mentally added this to my list of unexpected things that have happened during a session. Watch out for those National Mall squirrels, friends! They’re resourceful!

After laughing off the squirrel incident, we enjoyed the rest of our time together. As always, I tried to let the kids lead the way and those ended up being my favorite shots of the day. The kids running circles around their dad. Max interacting with Bode. Lou snuggling on her dad’s shoulder. These are the shots where their personalities really shine through, which I know their mama will want to always remember.

To Amanda and Steven, thank you for trusting me yet again with your family’s memories and for being some of our people in DC. I’m going to miss your family dearly when we move and hope we can get those sweet kiddos in front of my camera again before too long!

If you’re interested in a Washington DC photography session with me, time is running out! Please reach out so we can coordinate schedules before my move!

• A Christmas Newborn Session | The Freund Family
• Jefferson Memorial Family Photos | The Andrew Family
• Huey Family Photos | 1st Helicopter Squadron