The Ackert Family Portraits | Dixon, Illinois

I had forgotten how unpredictable rain storms can be in the summer! Luckily after driving the 2 hours to meet this lovely family for their portrait session, we arrived just as the rain was ending!  I had also forgotten how absolutely beautiful the lighting can be right after it rains, so it was definitely a blessing in disguise! …even though we still had to get our feet wet 🙂

Over the past few months my husband Ben has been joining me more and more for sessions – I love it and am always happy to be able to work as a team!  This worked out especially great because our wonderful clients, Ed & Kayla ended up taking us to a fabulous local Italian restaurant in Dixon before we headed home.  We had a great time during their session and loved having the chance to get to know them better over some pasta afterwards.

I’ve gotten to know Kayla pretty well during this past semester in nursing school.  We spent many nights studying, sharing stories, and laughing and even had a few study sessions where her older daughter was along!  This adorable family of four is getting ready for some big changes this summer as Ed prepares for his 3rd deployment with the Army National Guard.  Although their lives may be a little different from the typical American household, I really wanted to capture their family simply spending time with the people they love most!  Kayla, Ed, and their two little girls were full of big smiles and hugs. 

This family session gives me warm fuzzies whenever I think about it.  Maybe it’s because there were beautiful flowers, the fresh smell of rain, and lots of laughs.  Maybe it is because I can only imagine how special these photos will be as keepsakes while dad is away.  And maybe it is the wonderful combination of the two…either way… Here are some of my favorites!

A special Thank You to the men and women who work hard to serve our country and protect our freedom!