I first photographed Dr. Leslie Hunter and his daughter Emma in February at the Father Daughter Dance.  I had heard many wonderful things about Leslie prior to this.  I knew that he was a wonderfully skilled surgeon who had a great bedside manor and a unique compassion for his patients.  I knew that he loved sports and travel.  I knew that he was most passionate about his family.  The bond I saw between a father and daughter that night in February was evident. 

For some time we had been working with his wife Amanda to find a time that worked for all of our calendars for me to photograph their family for their family portrait.  We initially talked about scheduling the session for next Monday, however due to an unexpected opening in my calendar, we were able to work them in two weeks ago.

I will never forget the afternoon I spent with this family at their home.  When I arrived, Leslie was ready and excited that I was there.  (It is a bit unusual for dads to be excited about portraits).  The day was perfect and the light of the evening sun across the lake behind their home was breathtaking.  It was this evening that I was able to capture the wit, love and emotion of an incredible dad with his beautiful wife and amazing daughters.  Their is no question after reviewing these images that this was a dad that LOVED life and ADORED his family.   I did not want to leave.  It was one of those moments as an artist that I knew I was capturing something phenomenally special.

Never would I have ever dreamed just how special that portrait session would become.  As I write this blog today, this accomplished, ambitious young man is in Heaven.  Dr. Hunter died this weekend from heart and kidney failure.  A man who was so full of life just days ago.  He was the model for great health.

My staff and I have worked for the past two days with my labs and vendors to have their family portrait ready for his memorial service this morning.  Dr. Leslie Hunter was 36 years old and leaves behind his wife of 18 years Amanda, and two incredibly special daughters Madison – 14 and Emma – 9.  I encourage you to view his obituary and send them regards through the online guest book here.  His wife, daughters and family NEED our prayers and support through this unimaginable time in their life.

Leslie paid me the greatest compliment any dad could.  He excitedly shared with his friends about his experience with me that afternoon.  He told them how much he dreaded “picture day” but how much fun I made it.  He said that they became relaxed and actually enjoyed the experience.  From the images I am posting here today, you will understand what he meant.

In a few days DeWayne and I will be celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary with a trip to Spain, France and Italy.  The Hunters traveled to Italy last year and were kind enough to share with us lots of great tips.  They loaned us two pocket sized travel books that will help guide us on our trip.  Each day, using these books, I will think fondly of Leslie and know that where he is today – he does not need a guide – because he is home.

God put this wonderfully, special family in my path for a reason.  I am so thankful that God has given me the gift to create something that this family will value more than anything else for the rest of their life!  It is a reality check of how precious life is and how important my job is every day.

Thank you, Leslie, for touching me in such a special and incredible way.  My life, and so many others that you touched personally, will be so much richer because of you!