A Family Portrait and a True Celebration of Life

This was a beautiful party created by Diana’s two children, Renee and Dan. It was mom’s 70th birthday and they wanted to celebrate her. I received a call from LaVon, Diana’s daughter in law, asking if I would capture their evening celebration on the beach in Bridgehampton. Turns out they had planned dinner on the beach with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres some games and so on. Of course I am up for that. When I arrive the caterer is setting up and I see this adorable table wrapped in black and white table cloth with some pillows for seating. Over looking the ocean.

What I had learned with my consultation with LaVon was that Diana loves photographs and nothing would make her more happy then having family photos taken. Little did I know that until her granddaughter spilled the beans that her home is filled with them. The little moments bring her joy.

I photographed each family prior to Diana arriving. As I got to know them and their personalities, the little ones were shy, the teenagers skeptical (what teenager isn’t) and the adults just enjoying the moment and the surprise they were about to give Diana. She knew she was coming to the beach but no Idea what was in store for her.

I set myself up just below the entrance through the dunes. I see her approaching with the 2 youngest granddaughters hand in hand. I knew this was a 70th birthday celebration but when I saw Diana I said to myself, “No way is she 70!:” actually I probably said it out loud. The shutter clicking away! Her expression was beautiful and to see her children and grandchildren walking behind her made me smile. They were all so proud!

At Renees request I took Diana off to the side to get some portraits of this beautiful woman. As we were chatting Diana confided in me as to why this celebration was particularly important. 30 years ago she had cancer and never thought she would get to meet her grandchildren. She has an amazing bond with them especially her first. The one ,I am sure, that reminds her every day that she slayed the beast and won!