The Busti's (boo-stees)!

Let me introduce you to the Bustamantes, also lovingly known as the Busti's. They are good family friends of ours. I was so excited when Kristin contacted me to do a family shoot for them. This was my first family shoot that I had done for a friend. It was one of those defining moments for me as a photographer. Sometimes it's easier to realize that strangers appreciate your work but something changes inside when you realize a friend likes your work and wants you to photograph their family. Thanks Kristin!

Now, the Busti's have always had standard studio portraits done and were looking for something that was completely "outside of the box." So, I decided to put them inside a frame, in a bicycle rack, and up the stairs!

This is their daughter Gabi. Isn't she adorable? She reminds me of pure Americana, we're talking apple pie, golden retriever (which they actually have), and baseball!

 We also brought along an umbrella for a prop and funnily enough there were slight sprinkles during the shoot.

Gabi also knows how to walk on the wild side or one part sweet/one part spice as I like to put it!

I was able to capture some really great father/daughter moments during the shoot, you know, the kind that will probably be on Gabi's wedding slideshow.  

 ....and here's where the tears will start flowing (at the pre-conceived wedding) ....

This shoot also gave me some of my favorite mother/daughter shots. I love capturing the bond between mothers and daughters because I have two daughters of my own. It's fun to watch the interactions from behind the camera.
There are sweet moments of gift giving. 

Those girl talks that can only happen with mommas.

The moments where daughters learn to laugh from watching their mothers.

The times where mothers teach their children how to fly and kiss the tears away.

 

 The moments that mothers become friends and human playgrounds.

This is how I sum up all of the mother/daughter love in one portrait.

There were also some great family moments captured during the shoot. These three were content with just playing in front of the camera. We got a few posed pictures but the best ones were them just having fun! Also, the one element that I saw the most is how proud Brian and Kristin are of their daughter.

I saved my favorite part of this shoot for the last. I love, love, love, doing vintage style photos. Kristin came up with a great idea to bring a few cokes. This adorable family and 3 cokes made for some awesome vintage photos. So, if you ever want some vintage style family photos grab some glass bottled cokes, book a session with me, and you'll get some of the cutest pictures ever!

I hope you enjoyed getting to know the Busti's as much as I enjoyed capturing their family!