When you’re up in life, your friends get to know who you are. When you’re down in life, you get to know who your friends are.
A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of shooting Jackie and Sophia as they prepare to graduate college together! It has definitely been a tough year for these two but they are perfect examples of what can be accomplished when you practice compassion and patience. We spent the day in San Pedro, CA along with their children to document this monumental moment that meant so much more to them then a simple cap & gown.
A little over a year ago Jackie suffered the devastating lost of her fiancé and the father of her two boys Keyon Jr. and Keylin. Just the little that I’ve heard about her story broke my heart. No one should ever have to carry the load of such a heavy burden; but what’s most impressive is the woman she has become today as a result of her adversity.
- “The strength of a woman is not measured by the impact that all her hardships in life have had on her; but the strength of a woman is measured by the extent of her refusal to allow those hardships to dictate her and who she becomes.” ― C. JoyBell C.
Every time I saw how Jackie’s smile made her children smile it reminded me how powerful and important love is in life. Keyon and Keylin have the genes of a great man and the blessing of having a beautiful loving mother capable of anything.
For Sophia, a large of part of who she is today is a result of the unconditional love that was given by her Grandfather who passed just two days before her promise to him to graduate college.
- “Mr. Platt taught me and showed me what a real man is.” – Sophia
Mr. Platt reminds me of one of my favorite quotes…
- “A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in. “
His adoration and love for his granddaughter resonates as a perfect example of what a true man should look like. Sophia’s son Zion has a great model of success to look up to.
Although I have not been fortunate enough to meet Keyon Sr. and Mr. Platt., I have been blessed to meet the direct result of their love in Jackie and Sophia. I haven’t known them long but it has been my honor to see their light that shines so bright…even during the midst of a storm. I am very proud of you both! Congratulations!
Watching them look into each others eyes was like watching a romantic movie. April 14th, 2013 was no different. It was a little cloudy which made for great pictures. It was a bit chilly as well but the warmth from family and friends made the day all the more special. On the production side, the Magarian wedding will go down in history as the most “on-time” wedding I have ever shot! Congratulations! 
Didn’t quite make for the most glamorous picture but definitely created a great memory. 
