Shh, We're in a Library!

I have known the Severe family for six or seven years--ever since their oldest son was a pre-verbal toddler that communicated through sign language. Now he is an outstanding big brother, baseball player, and is communicating with words bigger than he is! I photographed the family two years ago and Phoebe was NOT happy, so I'm so glad I had the opportunity to photograph them again--this time with Katy's mom visiting from Oregon.

The family is very outdoorsy, so I provided them with several possible outdoor locations then I checked the weather. The forecast was positively frigid. So, I offered some indoor options and we ultimately settled for Central Library.

I became familiar with that particular branch of The Des Moines Public Library when my oldest was being homeschooled for kindergarten and we participated in a Literature Co-op that met there. It's a beautiful space with tons of natural light. I knew that on a Saturday in late afternoon, the library would be nearly empty, so we wouldn't disrupt other patrons.

Both Katy and Sean are educators, so the library seemed like such a fitting place for photos. They have a love of reading and connecting with their children through play. I love that Sean and Parker shot their Spidey webs at me while Katy challenged Parker to an arm-wrestling contest.

We eventually moved on from the children's section to the back stairwell. This was some of the most even lighting in the library and it created some striking images.

I'm so glad that Katy's mom was able to join the family for the photos. Katy and Sean are both originally from Oregon--and traveling with two youngsters can be.... challenging. I have learned first-hand about Phoebe's tenacious personality.

As we were wrapping up our session, we had to grab a photo of Katy and Sean sans kids plus an elevator shot. Parker was tasked with keeping the elevator doors open. He did a fantastic job.

I'm so glad the family was up for photos in the library. I love how they turned out and how I was able to capture the children's personalities and even interests, while staying nice and toasty. Parents may have bribed Pheobe and Parker with the promise of a 'tasty treat' after photos, which I am always supportive of!