As a photographer; when you find yourself smiling as much as or more than the subjects in front you, you know you have a good day ahead of you. Yesterday was that type of day for me.

Meet Jane & James. They were given a photo shoot as a gift from close friends of theirs. When they were asked when the last time was that they had any type of professional photos taken they said their wedding. That seems to be the case for so many people lately. Hopefully we can change that!

In the past one to two years, these two have been through more than most of us will go through in a lifetime. One mother passes away from cancer, the other has a stroke. Then Jane received news that I am sure shook their family to their foundation and tested them thoroughly. Jane was diagnosed with breast cancer. The depth of that story doesn’t need to be told, only the ending is what truly counts; which is really a new beginning for their family.

After a double mastectomy, Jane is cancer free. She told a story of James pulling her aside one day and saying something to the effect that there was more to life than the daily grind, more than sitting and stressing over life. They needed to get out and enjoy it more. Since then they have made regular weekend trips to Galveston, TX. The island has turned into a haven, a release for them. It is a place they love to be.

So what better place to take their photos!

Their friend Leslie and her Husband Mike arranged the day for them. Leslie happens to be the president of the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce, where I am proud to be a member. She told me that this was the perfect time to do this because the Jane had a light in her eyes that had not been there for a long time. She wanted them to have this captured for them. I am honored that she chose me to be the one to do this for them. I am even more honored to witness such a strong friendship between such loving people.

Leslie did not lie. Jane, as well as her husband did indeed have a light in their eyes. They had contagious smiles that came easy and they showed a love and caring for each other, in public, that few seem to show at all. I prayed throughout the afternoon that I would be able to capture those feelings for them but honestly, they made it easy. They showed a carefree attitude that more of the world needs to strive for. If they can do it, anyone can.

Thank you Leslie and Mike for choosing me to share this day. Thank you for introducing me to your wonderful friends.

Most of all thank you to Jane and James for spending the afternoon with me and showing me that life is indeed about so much more than most of us make it to be. You’re a lovely couple and I hope you enjoy your photos!

These are just a few small samples from the day.

As always; any comments made below are always welcome and appreciated!