Amber and I grew up together in our tiny, barely-on-the-map town in rural Alberta, but I hadn’t seen her in years. When she contacted me for family photos, I was beyond excited. Meeting her kids and her man, Rory, I instantly could tell that her family was her life, and that this family meant the world to each other.

Ryder was super shy when we first met – refused to take off his jacket, didn’t want to leave the truck, and wouldn’t be seen within 10 feet of his sister, Lexi. But as soon as the camera came out, he was the star of the show! Lexi was a sweetheart from the start, and a total trooper in the rain and cold. These adorable kids have the cutest sibling bond that make you want to play outside with your childhood friends again. And Rory is a prime example of a superman stepdad; playful, caring, and loves these kids like they’re his own.

Leaving this session I was so full of love and warmth, and I hope to see these giggly family much more often in the future!