By: Mars and Cranberry Township Photographer
There are some weekends that stay with you forever — and this was one of them.
A few weeks ago, my grandson came to stay with me for his very first weekend at Nanny’s. Just the two of us, slowing down, soaking in all the little moments that make spending time with him so special.
When he first arrived, we spent the morning exploring. We wandered outside, where he found the chickens and ducks down by the pond. He was fascinated—reaching out to gently touch their feathers as they pecked curiously at his pant legs. It was such a sweet and funny sight. (No camera involved just enjoying the moment!)
Of course, as a fine art photographer but more importantly as his Nanny, I would be lying if I said I didn’t take advantage of this time to create a few photographs. I did — but the camera wasn’t with me every minute of his visit.
At nap time, I rocked him slowly until his little eyes grew heavy. Then, just like I did for his big brother a year ago, I carefully placed him in the same small wooden cradle. And yes—I captured the matching portrait I had dreamed of. One quick 10 minute Studio Session and I now have a cradle portrait of both of my youngest grandsons.
Evenings brought soft light and outdoor adventures —the kind of light I live for as a photographer. I kept my camera close in those moments, capturing the quiet moments with this little guy. But during the day, I let it rest. That time was for play. For being fully present. For soaking in the magic of being his Nanny.
Of course, bedtime came with a few tears. It wasn’t his bed, and he missed his mama. But we rocked, we snuggled, and we got through it together.
When his mom came to pick him up, his face lit up instantly. And just like that, the weekend was over. It was nothing fancy or elaborate — just time together, slowing down, and being present.
This weekend was a reminder of why I love what I do. Childhood moves quickly, and these quiet, ordinary moments are the ones we end up missing the most. I’m so grateful I was able to spend this time with my younger grandson — and every time I look at these pictures I will remember this weekend.
If you’d love portraits like this of your own child—something tender, meaningful, and full of story—Contact Me, I’d be honored to create them for you.
As a Cranberry Township children’s photographer, I specialize in capturing Outdoor Children Portraits that will be treasured for generations to come. If y
If you have children that love playing outdoors and do not mind getting a little wet and muddy, check out my latest blog, A Whimsical Creek Session.