It took an hour to get this expression

We had to work diligently for that radiant smile from this young man during our portrait session on the picturesque shores of Orange Beach, Alabama. As the minutes passed, both his parents and I put forth our best efforts to coax a smile from him. Despite our playful antics and gentle encouragement, it seemed we were met with stubborn resistance. The best we managed was a slight glance in our direction, accompanied by the all-too-familiar grumpy look that often accompanies a reluctant photo subject.

Rather than pressing the issue and risking further frustration, I redirected my focus toward capturing candid moments. This approach proved fruitful, as it allowed for genuine interactions that revealed the warmth of their family dynamic. Throughout the session, the parents exhibited a commendable patience and understanding, which made the experience all the more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Once we concluded the session with the larger group, the parents decided to take a moment to reconnect with their son at the water’s edge. The atmosphere shifted as the father playfully lifted and caught him in a delightful game. It was here that the magic happened—his smiles transformed from fleeting flashes to genuine beams of joy. Seizing the moment, I quickly requested that the parents pose with their son after he had enjoyed the playful tosses in the surf.

Finally, we captured that joyful expression that every parent longs to see—a true testament to the bond they share as a family. The session, initially marked by challenge, ended in authentic smiles that conveyed the deep love and connection among them.