What childhood feels like | Hatley Castle and Esquimalt Lagoon Photos
Childhood means simplicity. Look at the world with the child’s eye – it is very beautiful.
Kailash Satyarthi
I recently took a course and the instructor said that she wasn’t focused on what childhood ‘looks’ like, she was interested in what it ‘feels’ like and how to photograph that. That concept immediately stood out to me and I’ve been thinking about it ever since. How can I make images that FEEL like childhood. That is more interesting to me than a pretty photo of a child that the parents and I had to bribe to get.
Enter Ayden. He is the first child to step in front of my camera since this idea took hold. We did a mix of more traditional portraits, and documentary photos of Ayden just being Ayden. The traditional portraits are nice, but the set below is what I’m more interested in. Will I ever fully be able to capture childhood the way I want? I don’t know, but I’m willing to try…
What does childhood feel like to an 18 month old?
Childhood is having to grab your mom’s hair when she puts shoes onto you.
To be so cool in your shades!
This photo is a recreation of a photo from their engagement session (see that here)
Dad in his picture CRACKS ME UP!!
I love this picture. Childhood is having a strong hand to guide you as you find your way.
Seriously, this kid is so cute.
Childhood is belly laughs.
Childhood is swinging so high!
and walking so strong.
Childhood is learning to fly.
And trusting that dad will catch you.
This has nothing to do with childhood but this peacock wanted to be part of the shoot, so I let it.
Childhood is cautiously peaking around corners.
And being smooshed with love.
I love this portrait. No making a fool of myself to get this photo. He just looked at me and smiled. Simple and I think, very Ayden.
Childhood is loving the blood rushing to your head.
And hoping that you will be let down.
Childhood is exploring with mom.
And playing hide n go seek. I see you!
Childhood is feeling the need to dance.
And loving your bear.
And finding everything funny.
And learning that not everything should go in your mouth.
Weeeeeeeeeeeeeee!
Childhood is seeing the world from different vantage points.
This is my favourite photo of the session. Childhood is not being afraid of a little drool.
Childhood is tasting your toys.
And needing help with boots. I love all the yellow.
I couldn’t decide if this one should be in colour…
or black and white. Let me know which you prefer in the comments below.
Childhood is thinking your parents are giants.
And having dirty feet.
Tickle time.
And thus ends my first foray into what childhood feels like. I hope you enjoyed it. If you want photos like this of your kids, shoot me an email and let’s make it happen.
