I have been a children and family photographer in the greater Raleigh area for almost 20 years. I have met some of the most incredible people on my journey through photography. It’s been years since I’ve photographed this sweet family, but getting to see them again for their family beach portraits was just like reconnecting with old friends. Their family will start changing soon; their oldest is staring down his senior year and will soon fly the nest. This was such an important summer to make these portraits happen, and they are magical. When I am asked what I do for a living, I say I am a photographer. But the truth is, I am a storyteller. I am driven to capture what a moment feels like it, not just what it looks like. This mom and dad will have this portrait forever. And when they look at it, even many years from now, I hope they can hear the gentle waves crashing, and feel the salty breeze as it carries the laughter of their children, hand in hand, on a warm summer night.