Being in a rural area and small town in Virginia, I get most of my business from friends and referrals. Sure being active on social media and having my website is great. But out here, you either know who you are working with or they have been referred by one of the families you have worked with. Which is awesome, don’t get me wrong. I love when my families post their photos or share them with friends and family and I get business from it. It is so awesome and it’s probably where 99% of my business comes from. I am beyond grateful for every single referral. It is the best compliment I could ever receive from one of the families I’ve photographed.

Every now and then though, I do get business through my website. I’m just a small business, but blogging and social media does help get my name out there. And I love when I get inquires, especially from out of state from vacationing families. It makes me feel a tiny bit like a big deal (just a bit). It’s exciting to think that my little photography business is reaching people beyond Hampton Roads.

When Michelle contacted me for her family maternity session and said that they would be vacationing from Pennsylvania, I had one of those little moments. The excitement that I’m getting noticed beyond my little corner of the world.

I met up with Michelle and her family on the beach in Virginia Beach and captured some precious photos of her family before they welcomed their second baby. The weather was beautiful for our session. Family maternity sessions are just so special too. I just love capturing beautiful mamas as they glow with joy carrying their precious babies. It’s especially precious seeing the older sibling interact with their parents, not knowing that they are about to get the best gift ever, a playmate for life.

Thank you Michelle for finding me in the sea of family photographers and choosing me to capture these precious moments in your family’s story. I am truly honored to have been a part of your lives, if only for a little moment. I’m happy that I was able to meet your family while vacationing before welcoming your second child. Congratulations to your sweet family.