Top 10 Moments Captured on Video in 2021 | Part 1
Every year when the cold season hits here in Northern Indiana, I dive into all the behind-the-scenes work — updating my website, organizing files, fine-tuning systems, and yes… sending out that long-overdue newsletter.
But this year, while organizing, I took a detour — I sat down and watched nearly all of my Client Family Films from 2021. And wow. What a ride. I found myself grinning like an idiot, tearing up more than once, and mostly just feeling overwhelmingly grateful for every single family who let me into their lives with a camera in hand.
Honestly, I have the best clients in Michiana.
Rewatching these family films reminded me why I love what I do — they’re little time capsules filled with connection, chaos, laughter, and love. So today, I’m sharing Part 1 of my Top 10 Moments Captured on Video in 2021 — a few of my favorites from the year that made me smile all over again.
If you’ve ever loved the idea of having your own modern home family video, but weren’t sure where to start, take this as your sign. You don’t need to “perform” — you just need to be. Let me find the magic in your ordinary moments.
Because here’s the truth: your family doesn’t need to be perfect. A little tantrum here, a funny blooper there — that’s the good stuff. That’s what makes your story yours.
So without further ado, here are my top five favorite moments (so far!) from 2021.
#10
Cara kept saying, “This really is such a good representation of our normal day.” Between the calm, sweet moments and the bursts of laughter, we headed to the basement for what she called “crazy playtime.” I loved seeing this fun-loving dad with his kids — the energy, the laughter, the tiny ponytail rebellion. This clip still makes me smile every time I watch it.
→ [See their film and photo blog post here.]
#9
This whole film was full of heart, but one moment stood out — Nikki’s son wrapping her in a big, spontaneous hug. Then there’s the scene where she lifts her daughter (who’s not so little anymore!) — you can feel the weight and the love in her expression. So many quiet, beautiful connections throughout this session. Definitely one of my favorites of the year.
#8
This one makes me laugh every time. Right before this clip, Mom discovered her preschooler had a dinosaur in his pocket — the most preschool thing ever. After a round of giggles, he went in for a kiss… and licked her cheek instead. 😂 I’m so glad I was rolling! Rain or not, this whole session was joy from start to finish.
#7
This session proves how simple a family film can be. Bed? Check. Family engaged with one another? Check. That’s all you need! Right as we started filming, this little guy decided to try a new trick for the first time — and his parents’ reactions were priceless. A few seconds later, Dad reached over to rub Mom’s back, and I swung the camera just in time. These tiny gestures are what make films like this so powerful.
#6
Oh, this grandparent film. Still one of my all-time favorites. There’s a long scene where Grandpa tries to convince the grandkids to taste a pawpaw fruit — and I knew I had to keep the whole thing in. I have a feeling those kids will cherish that clip forever. There’s a line in that scene that’s pure Grandpa — I bet you’ll know exactly which one it is.
→ [See their photos and full film here.]
That’s it for now — but stay tuned for Part 2, where I’ll share my favorite top five moments of the year. They’re extra special. ❤️
Want your family’s real-life moments captured like this? Whether it’s bedtime stories, baking cookies, or running around the backyard, I’d love to create a film that feels exactly like you.