A military homecoming story | Northern Virginia Family Photography

I recently shared a military homecoming film I created for a Northern Virginia family. Films are amazing for storytelling and capturing emotion, but still images convey a story beautifully as well. That’s why I love combining both. I spent a couple of hours at BWI Airport waiting with this beautiful mom and her little boy to document the arrival of their U.S. Air Force husband and father. 

It was fun, sweet, and so emotional. And while I LOVE the film (and cry every time I watch it!), I also love the simplicity of these still images that capture all those emotions. The waiting, the relief, the hard work of parenting a three year old amidst such a significant absence. And love all around.

It was also special to see the USO in action. Volunteers applauded and handed out welcome bags to all the servicemen and women each time the doors opened, giving thanks and showing respect with every handshake.

Nicole Sanchez Photography works with busy parents in Northern Virginia, Washington, DC, and Maryland to create stress-free photo sessions that take all the loving, fun, and chaotic moments of family life to make beautiful photos and films that families will love looking at year after year.  Contact me today to start planning a custom photography experience that's perfect for your family.

Family reunion: a military homecoming film | Northern Virginia Family Photography

Just before social distancing and a couple of weeks before stay-at-home orders were issued in DC, Maryland, and Virginia, I had the opportunity to document the homecoming of a U.S. military serviceman.

His family waited five long months to see him again. For a three-year-old missing his dad, that's an especially long time. Counting down the minutes with this little guy was one of my most special experiences as a photographer and this was one of the most emotional family films I've created. I'm familiar with the energy of young boys especially, so getting to follow him around the international arrivals area at BWI Airport was quite fun (and a lot less stressful than chasing my own kids around the airport!).

I hope you enjoy this glimpse into a moment five months in the making. 

I knew it would be emotional, particularly that moment of reunion. But what was just as special was witnessing the story of a military spouse and mom. Through months of highs and lows she was a beautiful mother to a little boy who missed his daddy very much. All while missing her partner in life very much.

Military families are amazing and I'm in awe of the dedication, sacrifice, and support within the military community. Thank you for all that you do.

Nicole Sanchez Photography works with busy parents in Northern Virginia, Washington, DC, and Maryland to create stress-free photo sessions that take all the loving, fun, and chaotic moments of family life to make beautiful photos and films that families will love looking at year after year.  Contact me today to start planning a custom photography experience that's perfect for your family.