missing max

i hadn't photographed the mikulak family since april 2009 (eight months after max passed away).  so when i was in san diego a few weeks ago, we made sure to get together for a family photo session.  it was so awesome to see and photograph them again!!  of course, it's always a bit difficult at the same time because max is not physically with us; however, i fully believe his spirit always is. prior to the session (prior to every session), i shared with andy and melissa, to please bring whatever they want to the session and i will do my best to incorporate it all.  i always know they will bring max's stuffed shark, bruce...as they have shared that max's bruce will forever be part of their family photos.

here's a few of my favorites from our incredible afternoon together at torrey pines park...

hannah and nicky, when they went off and started playing with a couple of max's star wars clone trooper guys...

and this shot of nicky so reminds me of one of the first shots i did of max, when we started our mashed potatoes for breakfast journey together.

reminds me of this shot (max's little smirk, he often gave me)...

and i have always said that hannah has soul.  there's something so deeply special about her.  you can see it in her eyes.

this photo is from april 2008, when i photographed max, hannah and nicky together...

and a shot of hannah from a few weeks ago.  same soul, but with some added tween spirit.

each and every time i have the opportunity, it is truly an honor to photograph the mikulak family.  i cherish their friendship and they have touched me...touched my soul, beyond words.  love you guys!!  thank you for being such a special part of my life.