Elizabeth Yancey is one of the strongest women I’ve known. Exactly one year ago from the date of this session, she was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Over the past year, I have watched her kick cancer’s butt, all while being an amazing teacher, mother, wife and human being. She is such an example of faith and grace and courage.
I chose the date of the session for her but didn’t know at the time that I had chosen this anniversary. But what an honor it was to be able to capture this milestone for her and to photograph a true survivor.
I had such a fun time photographing the ‘Yancey Clan.’ I always marvel at how beautifully different each sibling in a family can be, and these are four amazing and unique children.
Whenever someone books a session with me, I ask a series of questions. Clients do not have to answer most of them, but it does make it so much easier for me. My goal when I photograph a session is to capture your family in a way that really highlights who they are as individuals and as a family. It really makes it easier on me if I know a little about them before I try to do that. Elizabeth thoughtfully answered each question, and that really gave me an advantage at the session. I knew the kids a little beforehand, but her answers helped me to know how to approach them. I knew that Wylie would be the easy one. I knew that Moses would have to be coaxed out of his fake smile, but that being silly and letting him be active would be a good strategy. I knew not to overwhelm Nonie, as she is shyer than the others so I approached her quietly. I knew Wesley would warm up as the session went on (and boy did she!! Peekaboo!).
But most of all, I knew what these pictures would mean to Elizabeth, as a way to mark this milestone and show that they “not only survived but are thriving.”
