ERIN THOMPSON

Fort Carson Retirement Photographer | The Johnstones

Military Session

Some clients come to me knowing exactly why they need a Fort Carson retirement photographer. Kayla was one of them. She had previously attended a retirement ceremony where there was no photographer present and couldn’t imagine that happening to her family. After 22 years of Army service and all the preparation and emotion that goes into a retirement day, she wanted every moment documented and I was honored to do it.

An Army Retirement at McMahon Auditorium

McMahon Auditorium on Fort Carson is a nice venue for a ceremony. However, like many military event spaces, it comes with some challenging lighting conditions. Dim ambient light, bright stage lighting, and a bold red curtain backdrop made for a technically demanding day. Though to be honest, it’s something I’ve come to expect with military ceremonies. (Why didn’t anyone ask a photographer before designing these spaces!? 😉)

Because of the lighting inside, we took family photos outside before the ceremony began. The boys were absolute troopers for all their photos, patiently going along with everything I asked… and then made a beeline straight for the nearest rocks the moment I told them we were done!

After family photos, it was time for the ceremony and Shawn’s retirement speech. He used his moment at the podium to speak about what mattered most to him: taking care of people. He honored his family and friends, and even took the opportunity to name his colleagues who lost their lives as a result of their service. It was a beautiful moment, honoring their sacrifice and ensuring that they have not been forgotten.

To the Johnstone family, congratulations on 22 years of service. I loved meeting your extended family and appreciate you trusting me with such an important day. Cheers to your next chapter!

If you’re looking for a Fort Carson retirement photographer, or a photographer for any military ceremony in Colorado Springs, I would love to be there for it. Reach out here and let’s make it happen!

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I HAVE A LITTLE SOMETHING FOR YOU!

more about me

I've been navigating military life with my family since 2008. In that time, I went from a full-time classroom teacher to an online course designer to a photographer. Actually, I still teach a little math on the side because I just love it too much!

Through it all, I've discovered how passionate I am about connecting with military families. Whether it's taking photos at a retirement ceremony, coaching a fellow milspouse photographer, or just grabbing coffee with a new squadron friend, I love this community. And as a teacher at heart, I'm excited to use this space to share what I've learned about business and life with you.

I'M ERIN.

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