The Morrison Family // A Magic Hour Session
This was my first time photographing for Magic Hour, a non-profit organization pairing those in the fight against cancer with photographers for a free shoot. I loved this concept and I was lucky to have been contacted about the Morrison family a few weeks after I joined the organization. I highly encourage you to join the Magic Hour Foundation and donate some of your time celebrating the lives of those fighting cancer and their families.
The focus of our shoot was the grandfather, Alan. Alan is also a husband and father, and he enjoys music, traveling with his wife, nature, running, and biking. He has lived in Minnesota most his life and has raised a beautiful and loving family here. In July of 2016, he was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer that had metastasized to his brain. Doctors at the time of diagnosis gave him a grim outlook on his life, but Alan's family mentioned that he wouldn't give in to such a negative perspective on his remaining days. He believed, prayed, fought and is still living his life marvelously, over six months past the time frame Alan's doctor gave him. Alan mentioned that his family has been with him every step of the way, and their love and strength help to keep him going.
Our session took place at the Landscape Arboretum, and it was pure magic (punny, I know). We started off with a picnic in a hidden grove brightened by the golden light of the setting sun. The Morrisons laughed, the children ran around playing tag and soon tackled their grandfather (gently) to the ground. The session was warm and I the gratitude expressed by the Morrisons was expressed throughout the session. Soon did I feel a part of their family and I may even end up babysitting their remarkable children (hopefully). We all will hold these memories for forever.
-B
