Family Pictorial: Capturing Love

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Before our two daughters flew back to Canberra after their vacation, they came up with a bright idea: “Let’s do a family pictorial—professional this time!”

My first thought? “Why not just do it like we did last time?” You know, good old DIY style. We hung a white cloth for a backdrop, dressed in matching light-colored blazers (medio-forma) and the ladies wore their fine white dresses. We used a tripod, one proper camera, and a couple of cellphones. Not bad at all—the photos turned out pretty decent. I used some of the shots, including a few funny and awkward poses, in our 2023 family calendar.

But this time, the girls were serious. Studio shoot. Casual outfits. Real photographer. Real lights. Real instructions like:
“Ngeti po, sir.”
“Ma’am, tingin po sa camera.”
“Lagay po ang kamay sa pants pocket.”
“Put your hand on his shoulder.”
“Lean your head.”

So there we were, gamely posing as a family:

·         The whole gang together

·         Just the parents

·         Just the kids

·         Dad with daughters and sons

·         Mom with sons and daughters

·         A few “wacky” and Korean “finger heart” shots

There must have been over a hundred clicks (and just as many retakes). After the whirlwind session, our daughters picked five favorites to be printed and framed. Three days later, they arrived—and are now proudly displayed on our living room wall.

It’s more than just a collection of smiles. These photos remind us of how far we've come as a family—how we’ve grown together through the years. Still laughing, still close, still blessed beyond measure. A simple but lasting way to honor the love and grace that continue to shape our lives.

A moment frozen in time, reminding us that the best frame for love is always family.



 

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