Northwest Indiana Photographer, Valparaiso Photographer – Samantha Uphold Photography » Northwest Indiana Photographer, Porter County Photographer, Valparaiso Photographer, Newborn Photography, Child Photography, Family Photography, Senior Photography

Yesterday was one of *those* days.  One of those icky days where everything seems to go wrong and everything tests your patience.  I don’t speak too much about my personal life here on the blog, but yesterday was stinky.  I was actually headed to this session in tears after the last straw broke right before I had to leave, and it sent me over the edge.  I was trying so hard to get it together, knowing I had a very important session in front of me.  And, the moment I laid eyes upon Mom and Dad’s smile from their car window, my bad day got better.  Then – I walked up to their car and was greeted with squeals, and hugs, and pictures drawn for me by 3 of their 4 girls.  And THEN – THEN!!! – I was able to meet and hold and love on the newest member of this family – Clayton.

There is no way I can do this adoption story justice, so please go read Mom’s blog.  She is such an amazing woman. I have followed this adoption story since the beginning, cheering on this family in all of the hurdles they overcame, praying for them every step of the way, and shedding tears of joy when I finally heard the news that they were bringing this sweet boy home.

Yesterday I was blessed to be reminded of how lucky I am to capture these moments.  Yesterday I was blessed by the experience of documenting this wonderful family.  Yesterday I was blessed.  Thank you for erasing my bad day and making it one that I will remember fondly for a very, very long time.  I simply adore you all and am beyond elated when I look at these images and was beyond elated to capture them!!  So much {love} to you all.

Please also don’t forget to submit your entries to Giving Is Awesome!!

Oh, how I just adore this child!!!  This is now my third time having the pleasure of photographing this beauty.  I couldn’t believe how much she had changed since last year.  We had a fantastic time downtown playing, laughing, singing, tickling, and jumping around during our photo session.  Can’t wait til next year!! 

I would like to start by thanking Kristen Kalp of Essential Imagery for this truly awesome idea. She is not only the brainchild behind this incredible giving idea, but she encouraged photographers all over the world to donate last year.   AND, she started this amazing website to track the donations of photographers! Now, onto the awesomely awesomeness that is the heart of this season….the spirit of giving…..

You know someone. You know someone who’s experienced a tragedy, is struggling to stay afloat, is raising kids while holding down more than one job, or is volunteering selflessly despite extenuating personal circumstances. You know someone who can’t afford custom photography, but who would cherish it this holiday season. You know someone who deserves a year-round reminder of their family’s spirit, love, and beauty.

You know someone. I guarantee it. Who is that person? I need your help!

We all know that custom photography is a luxury, not a necessity. But, what is more important to us than our relationship with family and the precious memories that we create? I can’t think of much else. That is one of the reasons I choose to photograph families in the way that I do. I want them to have a physical, constant reminder of their precious connection – the spirit of their family. I want to give them something that will lift their spirits when they look at it. I’d really like to give someone a chance to have that year long reminder. And, I’d like to give it to someone who deserves it and could otherwise not afford to have it. This is where you can help me.

I want to know who you think deserves a holiday “pick me up” of sorts , and I want to give them the chance to experience complimentary custom photography – $2,000 worth, to be exact. Whether they choose a gallery-wrapped canvas, albums, prints for Grandma, or a slideshow to watch over and over . . . it’s in your power to give them the artwork they deserve this holiday season. Oh, and a little bonus? The person who nominates the winner receives a $500 print credit. What better reason do you need to show some love?

The rules:
1. You cannot nominate yourself, and the person nominated must sincerely be incapable of purchasing my services. (Being unable to make mortgage payments for a two-million-dollar vacation home in Paris does not qualify as sincere financial need.)
2. The nominee must reside in Northwest Indiana or be able to travel here for their session. If your nominee lives outside the area, send me an e-mail, anyway. There are loads of incredible photographers partnering on this project and there’s sure to be one near you.
3. Comment on this blog entry to let me know you’ve entered and e-mail me the full story: samantha@samanthauphold.com. Tell me who you know, what they’re experiencing, and why they deserve their life translated into art. Please include contact information for your nominee and yourself. The winner will be announced on Christmas Eve . . . get nominating! I can’t wait to read all of your entries!

Open your heart to someone this holiday season. And thanks for giving me the opportunity to open mine.

Sweet, funny, smart, beautiful…..

::sigh::

Clients make my job TOO easy!!

There may have never been a happier child in front of my camera. I think this session took all of 24.7 minutes. Hello, Blue Eyes!!

and pieces, and pieces, and pieces. Seriously, this family is SO much fun – my cheeks were hurting when the session was over from laughing so much. They are some of the most genuinely FUN families around. Thanks for a fantastic afternoon!!

I was lucky enough to get to spend the afternoon with a fantastic family that I know quite well! Meet the newest addition to their family…..Teagen Rose!!

I couldn’t have better things to say about this gorgeous girl. When one talks about the “total package” they are referring to girls like this…smart, funny, sweet, beautiful, generous, and on and on. I’ve known Taylor for a few years now, and I am continually impressed by this young woman and her achievements. Taylor is my Senior Model for Valparaiso High School this year, and well….could I have lucked out any more? Taylor is an ACTUAL model!! Jackpot!!

Steve had one of the nicest fall days we have had all season for his session. It was a great afternoon spent at two very different locations. He even played his guitar for me while I was shooting!! THAT was a session highlight!! He is a VERY talented guitar player!! Thanks for a wonderful session!

I never get tired of photographing this family and one of my favorite little men. Ian!!