Meet the M Family: Graydon 4, Twins Robbie and Callum 2, and Harrison 6 months. Last weekend I had the opportunity to, finally, take their pictures and what a hoot it was.

I met up with my friend Aija on the shores of Woodbine Beach Park. While waiting for her I took the opportunity to cruise around on my longboard. I figured I should get a bit of ride time in before I have to put the board away for winter. They don’t tend to ride too well on snow packed trails.

I chose this location as I had previously taken some pictures here and I knew it wouldn’t be crowded early on a Saturday morning. I wanted a monotone and quiet background where I could let the children play and be themselves. Once the beach scene was exhausted I also knew that I could fall back on a really cool playground scene.

I had asked Aija if she could dress her children appropriately for the weather but somehow making sure they were wearing similiar colours. She did not disappoint and I loved how the four of them were sporting the same colour of red, browns and beige. Perfect against the sand. I was not trying to re-create a summer photoshoot and found that entire scene lent itself really well for a late fall session.

My main challenge was trying to get a group picture of the children. Although the littlest one couldn’t yet move on his own the other three were perpetual movers. Especially, Robbie (or was it Callum – the other twin) who would consistently smile at me than quickly turn and run. I caught on fast though and anticipated. I managed to get quite a few pictures of him much to his unknowing.

I am really happy with the pictures I produced. Aija felt that I captured each child very well and was happy that I was able to show their individual sides. Really though, I must thank the children for that part. They played, and were naturals in front of the camera. Especially Graydon and Robbie. It is amazing to see how different the twins are from each other. But what amazed me the most is how much respect and love there was. Graydon, being the eldest, really showed support and respect for his younger brothers and I believed that just gets passed on down. I need to have my two hang around more with this family so they can pick up on their good habits.

I must admit though, Aija puts me to shame. I do not know where she finds the time or energy to get everyone ready for a walk in the park. The kicker is that she manages to do this by herself and take out the family’s two big dogs at the same time. She is one seriously organised mother!

If you have ever been around young children you know and understand that it can be downright challenging. Sometimes enough to make you pull out your hair and scream helter skelter. I really do not know how both Aija and Dan do it. Especially Aija (sorry Dan – you are good but Aija kicks your butt here and I have the upmost admiration for her). Nursing, constant diaper changes, running around, mediating, prepping food, food shopping, taking out the dogs, laundry (and there must be a ton as I know my two give me a ton), playing, being a doctor, sleepless nights, reading, teaching, arts & crafts, cleaning house, banking. The list goes on. One wonders…how do you do it? Kudos to the both of you. I know your parents both help out. Kudos to them too. You have a beautiful family.

Thanks for the opportunity Dan and Aija. It was a blast!