This family holds a very special place in my heart. Like most people, I started into photography because of family moments, births, and weddings. I always had my camera with me through all of those happy times. In 2006, we took the plunge and opened up Angela Tappen Photography. Over the years we studied the in’s and outs of photography and running a business. It wasn’t until 2014, that I realized just how important my job really is. While my passion for photography started with happy moments, it was a very sad moment that has drawn me to shift our business into something that is more than I could ever imagine. It was a normal happy day, I was in the kitchen and I hear Danny say from the living room “Oh no! Rusty Bevard died” Immediately, I didn’t believe him. I told him that wasn’t possible, he was wrong. We just did their family photos a short time ago, there was just no way. I sat next to him and looked at the facebook post. Sure enough, he was right. I just froze, and all I could think about was Erin and their young little boy Ace. It was then that it hit me, “This sweet little boy is only going to know his Father through photos and stories” Right then and there I KNEW that the images I created for clients NEEDS to be more! That family photography needs to be about the little moments and not about what to wear. It needs to capture the time spent together as a family.
Just before he lost his short battle with Acute Leukemia, Rusty and Erin and set in motion to build a beautiful new home. The time has come and that new home is now ready to move into. While excited to see Rusty’s vision come to life, leaving their first home is very emotional. Erin invited me over to capture some favorite moments before items were packed up. It was a normal Wednesday, nothing planned, no special outfits were purchased. It was just a mother and her son doing their favorite things. These are the moments that will be cherished forever. I love that Ace will have these images always. I love that when he has his own kids, they will see, know and feel how amazing Grandma/Erin is. I mean, hello, wouldn’t you love to see pictures of your grandma running and jumping into a pool! Freaking amazing, Right?!!!
As I sat there with Erin and Ace watching the slideshow, I noticed how Erin held her hands close to her heart. At the end, she expressed that having these photos give her a sense of peace about moving. I felt speechless and thankful for her willingness to trust me to document her family. Like I said, they hold a very special place in my heart!
