Fun Parents equal Fun Kids!: The Smiths and "Smithits"

Danielle was a good friend in college. We may have lost touch over the years but thanks to Facebook we get to see how each other are doing. Since college Danielle has been blessed with a loving husband and her three "Smithits." Her two boys Campbell and Collin are 13 months apart, and are best friends. Then she has her little golden haired gal, Giuliana, who is 18 months. They came out to my house yesterday and we had fun getting family shots, even though little Gigi was not in the mood to flash her big and beautiful smile at all times. These photos show just how much love and fun is involved in this family. Thank you to the Smiths and their little Smithits for letting me capture these moments.

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Millie: She may be Small but She is FIERCE

This past year has been a roller coaster ride for Carrie and Patrick Galphin. They were expecting their first, a little girl, to arrive in July. Well, Millie decided she was going to come in April. They spent close to six months in NICU at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital. Millie and her parents went through countless procedures, endless nights, thousands of miles and hours driving to their home, to the hospital, to work, etc. Millie conquered all the odds and she came home about a month ago. She is about 7 months old now, 6 months in these photos, but weighing what most full term newborns weigh, between 8 to 9 pounds. Millie is definitely small but she has proven to be strong, courageous and determined. She is a true blessing and miracle. I am so grateful to have gotten the chance to take this family's first (official) photos!  

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Best Main Street in America: Collierville, TN

This year Collierville, TN won the great honor of being named "The Best Main Street in America." I have to say it definitely is one of the best! Through the years I have taken almost all my clients' photos here at least once. Each session and season I try to come up with unique locations but if a family has yet to take photos here then it is always a recommendation of mine. The Hudson family showed off how beautiful they are in these photos. The beautiful square was the perfect place to capture their photos. Thanks to the Collierville Square and the Town of Collierville for always making this such a beautiful place to visit, shop, eat and take photos!

To see more photos visit www.LaurenPigford.com

LET'S GO TO THE FAIR

 Here was a super fun session with my sister's family! Erin actually asked if we could do the photos at the fair. The first thing that went through my mind was trying to get photos without random people in the background. However, did you know the fair opens an hour early before the rides actually begin! They do this to teSt all the rides before letting people ride. Three reasons why I loved this location and will be adding this as a staple next year: 1. You cannot find better props! 2. The kids are excited and smile the entire time! 3. It is different from the same ole nature background.

Add this location to your to dos for next year everyone!!!

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“There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.”

I love the outdoors and most of all the animals that thrive outdoors. I was born into a horse family. The smell of a barn, dirt, hay; yes, even manure, are all smells that make me feel at peace. Being outdoors on land or in a barn is where my soul is most happy. There is a peacefulness that lives in the outdoors and it brings a smile to my heart and soul. I have always cherished the simplicity of nature and the humbleness of animals. When people find out I have horses they normally ask if I show and compete. The answer is yes and no. When I grew up with horses I learned something more important than the idea and desire to compete and show. I learned what real horsemanship was about and, most of all, how special and sacred a bond between horse and man really is. There are some of the most honorable men and women in history who have been quoted about the bond they shared with their horses. It is not unique to one individual but to all mankind. Horse people experience a miracle every time they pet their gentle, flight animals in the middle of a pasture; when they sit upon their backs in an open, rolling field, and when they witness their giant flight animals run towards them out of happiness and excitement. Horses are a type of animal who traditionally should fear humans, and anything they see as predators, yet, they allow humans to get close and bond with them. I try to capture photos that show the peace and humbleness I feel and experience with horses and other farm animals. I want to show the haunting beauty in an open field or unique piece of nature. When I am experiencing the outdoors there is an emotion I cannot explain which is why I always try to capture it. Here are some of places around my home and my neighbor's farm I enjoy most. I have truly been blessed and I hope I never find myself ungrateful or numb to the beauty I experience daily. www.LaurenPigford.com