A recent review from my client satisfaction survey:
“Amanda was a joy to work with. She did our session under unusual circumstances… at the airport, on military timing, which meant we had no information! Even with little notice, not much room, and tons of people in the way, Amanda did a GREAT job. She really has a gift. She was able to capture the emotions along with the shots. She was very patient and friendly. I’m not sure how often her clients are a big mess of nerves, but she put up with me being neurotic and my 4-year-old being really excited. The pictures are wonderful, great quality, and everyone who I show cries. Amanda has a gift both with photography and with people.” — A
How sweet is that?
Last week, I received this review out of the blue from a client I worked with late last summer. “A” found me through the Operation: Love ReUnited network when I was volunteering for them at that time. Her husband was scheduled to return from Iraq, and we had an impromptu reunion session at Hartsfield-Jackson with the couple and their sweet daughter, “E”.
Here are just a few shots from the day:
This is Miss “E”… waiting patiently for her daddy to arrive.
“A” and “E” watching as the troops come up the escalator. I specifically recall “A” telling me that she was more excited than she was on her wedding day. (I love how complete strangers were gathered around watching and getting emotional… like this woman in the background, for example).
Finally home!
The happy family… all together again!
I don’t quite know how to explain the emotion of that day. It was an emotional week, for me, personally. My dear friend’s brother had passed away in Iraq… and… another close friend’s husband had deployed… all in that same week. I tried to “keep it together” at this session for “A” and her family, but I admit… it was difficult! It was such a blessing, though, to meet this sweet family and witness their happy homecoming.
“A” - thanks again for the kind words, and for allowing me to capture this happy time in your family’s life. It is a day I won’t soon forget.
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8 responses so far ↓
Photographer: Amanda Shoemaker | ATL Creatives | Introducing the world to Atlanta’s creative community // May 12, 2008 at 3:25 pm
[...] you have a favorite shoot or client experience? In late 2007, I documented an emotional military homecoming with a very sweet family at Hartsfield-Jackson airport. You can read more about this shoot on my [...]
Michelle // May 29, 2008 at 3:46 pm
Hey there! I’m in tears after looking at these pictures. A friend and I are searching for a photographer that would be so kind to volunteer their services for us when our men return from Afghanistan in October. They are in the Air Force and are stationed at Ft. Campbell, KY, so they would be arriving in the Nashville, TN airport. I’m not sure where you are located, but I would love to know if you or anyone else knows of someone that would be willing to do this for us in our area. We would love to capture the emotions of it all. Thanks so much!
Amanda Shoemaker // May 30, 2008 at 12:23 pm
Hi Michelle. Thanks for stopping by. I’m located in Atlanta, but the OpLove foundation has many volunteers all over the US. I know there are several in the Nashville and Ft. Campbell area. Check out the OpLove finder to locate a photographer near you. Best wishes, and thank you for your family’s sacrifice.
http://www.oplove.org/oplovefinder/
Michelle // May 30, 2008 at 12:39 pm
Thank you! I found the other photographer’s yesterday after I left my message on here. I’m so excited, this is an awesome thing you all are doing!
Jenifer Samaha // Jun 3, 2008 at 10:51 am
Beautiful candid images. How blessed this family was to have you there to capture such an important event for their family!
Sonja Pruitt // Jun 3, 2008 at 3:45 pm
Beautiful pictures! I’m sure that was a very emotional day for you and the family. Just looking at the pictures warmed my heart!!!
Tonee // Jun 3, 2008 at 11:50 pm
i love these :)
Tracy Besek // Jun 23, 2008 at 3:46 pm
You caught the moment beautifully!
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