Everything you find here is written by me, Rachel Greiman—a Philadelphia family photojournalist who is writing this to rank higher on Google. I hope you don’t read this, but if you do, at least I tried to make you laugh?
Young enough to think
sticks are wands and dresses are
for twirling only.
Girls won’t be just girls
They will be giggles and tears,
Strength, fierce justice, grace.
Innocence knows age
But wonder, we get to keep
It is just a choice.
I’ve been photographing the Gagners for years. Alexxa was one of the gals who inspired the chair. I watched her walk through pregnancy both times, and even got to see her the day after she had Caroline. I photographed them after bringing her home from the hospital, and again when she started walking. And now, this sweet family of four was in front of my lens one more time.
If I’ve learned one thing from them as a family, it’s that relationships matter more than anything, and to put people before yourself. They are loyal, kind, nurturing, and hilarious. They value both making people laugh and listening. They serve people regularly and are raising their girls to do the same. I can’t count the times they have invited me and my family into their home or how welcome I feel to be exactly me when I’m with them.
I love you Gagners. Thank you for inviting me to document your memories year after year. It’s a privilege.
This shoot was an abbreviated version of my Best Afternoon Ever option, when I photograph a family for 6 hours. I offer these sessions to clients who live anywhere, even outside of Pennsylvania (looking at you Colorado!). I would LOVE to chat with you about your family’s Best Day Ever. It’s exactly as fun as it looks and sounds.