Top 10 Moments Captured with a Photograph in 2021, Mishawaka Family Photographer | Part 2
I had so much fun sharing Part 1 of my Top 10 Photography Moments of 2021 that I couldn’t wait to come back with Part 2. If you missed Part 1, you can read it [here]. Last year was such a gift, and it’s all thanks to you—my incredible clients. These past two years have been challenging for so many, and I wasn’t sure what family photography would look like during that time. But you all showed up, trusted me with your memories, and filled my calendar with joy. Thank you, truly.
One of my favorite things about being a Mishawaka family photographer is walking with families through every stage. Newborn snuggles? Check. Toddler giggles? Absolutely. Family chaos, teenage milestones, even slipping in a senior portrait or two? Yep, I do it all. My sessions are designed to grow with your family, so you don’t have to find a new photographer for every stage.
And now, onto the top five moments that stood out in 2021.
5.
From my very last session of the year, this image stole my heart. Little Miss, with her hands on her hips, bossing her dog around—it’s the kind of photo that needs a funny caption. This documentary family session was bursting with personality, and this moment perfectly sums up the charm of everyday life.
4.
Every once in a while, I take a photo that already feels like a memory the second I click the shutter. That’s what this newborn session gave me. You don’t see Mom’s face in the frame, but you can almost imagine her expression as she gazes at her brand-new baby. That’s why I love in-home documentary newborn sessions—they allow for both connection and reality to shine through in the most natural way.
3.
Dad laughing into his preschool daughter’s shoulder? The BEST. And then, as your eye wanders, the rest of the frame is just overflowing with love—Mom doubled over with laughter, her arms full of a chunky toddler, big sister smiling sweetly, and even the family dog hanging out in the background. These are the kinds of layered, connected moments that make me fall in love with documentary family photography over and over again.
2.
This one made my heart leap—captured twice, once on film and once in a still. A perfect flip in midair, Mom smiling with coffee in hand, little brother entertaining himself on the couch. The whole session was filled with energy, love, and the kind of everyday chaos that makes for the best photos. Honestly, I could’ve chosen at least three of their images for my top 3 of the year.
1.
Yes, this family already appeared in Part 1, but how could I not? This image is pure joy. The kind of photo that makes you smile instantly (and if it doesn’t, well, maybe you’re secretly a robot). It’s everything I love about family films and photos—connection, laughter, and love, all in one frame.
Wrapping Up
Writing this post was no easy task—I started with 140 favorites in my “Best of 2021” folder! Narrowing it down to just 10 was nearly impossible, because you all gave me so many beautiful, authentic moments to capture. Thank you for inviting me into your homes, your stories, and your memories.
Here’s to even more love, laughter, and photographs in 2022.
Don’t let these little everyday moments slip away. Whether it’s the laughter at your dinner table, the way your newborn curls into your arms, or the joyful chaos of siblings playing together, I’d love to capture your story. Let’s turn your family’s now into timeless photographs you’ll treasure for years.