Silverbells 2013

By Ariniko O'Meara   |   Posted November 26, 2013   |   Next Entry

Last Friday was the launch of what I feel is the beginning of the holidays, Silverbells in The City. This year was its 29th year hosting the celebration. I wasn't even aware of the event until my older set of children started participating with their middle school band back in 2003. Of course, during those years, I still didn't get to see the festivities because I was inside watching my kids. It wasn't until the twins came along that we began attending the event as attendees and I haven't been disappointed once. I remember one of those earlier years, after the parade had passed and the mayor had spoken, the not so large group of people, gathered around the tree anticipating the lighting. On the last of the countdown, the 30 foot tree on the Capitol lawn glowed into action. As if the beauty of it all was too much to hold in, the group began singing a Christmas carol. It was the type of moment that created instant goose bumps and not because we were cold. Year after year, we've continued to attend the Silverbells event and never again has that moment been recreated.

As a photographer, it's those moments and the ability to flash freeze them forever, that keep me pushing onward. For each time I get discouraged or frustrated, I remember why I love what I do so much. When I get to go back through my images, my personal images, and again feel those feelings I had at that moment, it is truly a gift.

It's during this time of year I bring in clients who want to capture a fleeting moment. They've learned that a head of hair, a tooth, an innocent sparkling in the eyes or even a family member could be gone the next time they decide they should, they could, they can afford, the session. We are often so busy. I hear people say that they'd been planning a family photo session for years. Think about why you're not moving forward with your session. Is it the perception that it costs too much? How much value is there in having those moments to cherish forever? Is it all the extra time it will take? Think about the fun you'll have trying to make each other laugh. The capturing of the moment is its own moment! Do you feel you don't have the right outfit? Sometimes it's the accessories that make the image stand out; your jewelry, your hat, your smile. It's time for you to have your own cherished keepsake, the gorgeous, framed family portrait that makes you smile every time you see it.