The Lewis Family | Photos for Columbia | Columbia SC Portrait Photographer

"Cherish today, for tomorrow is not promised."

For this family of nine (including their 4 fur babies), the Columbia flood last fall reminded them just how true that statement is. Photos for Columbia was the perfect opportunity for the Lewises to spend the afternoon enjoying time together as a family - walking the dogs, laughing and smiling together across the beautiful green expanse of The Horseshoe at USC. 

Jeff and Deborah, along with their son Domenique, daughter Tonika and grandson LJ, have not allowed hardship from the flooding to their home, and to our city, keep them down. It was Deborah who told me the quote above and said that their family words are: strong, diverse, think positive.

From snuggles with the dogs and kisses from adorable LJ to cozying up and laughing at Jeff's silly antics, the Lewis family showed remarkable resilience, tightknit unity and warm love that helps keep their bond going strong.

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The Parker Family | Photos for Columbia | Columbia Portrait Photographer

In one weekend, life changed for the Parkers.

In October, Mike, Eugenie and their daughter Sarah were among the many families in Columbia who lost their homes, their car and their possessions during the record-breaking heavy rains that flooded the Midlands. The 1,000-year-flood spread across the Famously Hot town, leaving behind destroyed roads, crumbling foundations and hurting people.

Through Photos for Columbia, I had the opportunity to photograph the Parker family, whose home and belongings were flooded, including most of Mike and Eugenie's wedding photos. Despite the incredible loss and hard time they've been through, this sweet family was all smiles, joy and laughter during their portrait session at the South Carolina State House.

Although nothing can replace the waterlogged photos, picture frames and albums destroyed in the flood, Mike and Eugenie's tried-and-true love for each other was shining despite their current circumstances.

Thomas + Elizabeth | West Columbia Riverwalk Portraits

A sunset stroll by the river. Does it get more romantic than that for portraits??

I am SO delighted my two good friends, Thomas & Elizabeth, gave me the opportunity to capture a few photos of their lovey-doveyness down by the West Columbia Riverwalk.

From the way she looks at him, to the way he makes her smile, it was such a joy to photograph this lovely couple (& parents-to-be!). Keep a-scrolling for more of this beautiful duo :)

Thomas + Elizabeth | Sneak peek | West Columbia Riverwalk

These two. Caaaaan you feeeeel the looooove toooonight? are lyrics that definitely capture Thomas & Elizabeth's beautiful relationship & love for one another! Walking hand-in-hand along the West Columbia Riverwalk, nuzzling noses as the sun set. It was a dreamy portrait session in Columbia.

AND the Brantleys announced just shortly after we took these photos that their family will be growing by 1 come this October. It's kick-off-your-shoes good news! We are thrilled to hear about their little baby God has blessed them with & can't wait for them to join the parenthood club, too :) More photos of these lovebirds coming soon ♥