Inspiration comes in many forms and yesterday I was inspired in a way I never imagined. I was doing a senior photo session and as usual our daughter Kelley was my second shooter. At one point we were setting up a shot and Kelley was positioning a reflector to illuminate the scene. Instead of directing her, I handed her the camera and I held the reflector.

At this point our roles changed and she seamlessly transitioned into the role of photographer. I watched as she found her shooting position and directed Brendan into a pose that worked for that scene. Brendan at Gas Works Park

As this was taking place though I wasn’t thinking inspiration, I was just intent on getting the lighting right for her. I didn’t have to direct Kelley on where to place the reflector but was free to work with the lighting as she worked the camera. As the shoot progressed we swapped roles back and forth.  I watched as Kelley scouted locations, pointed out different backgrounds to use, and in general thought and acted like a photographer. It was only afterwards did I realize that she had taken a very big step; she was now the photographer. She IS a photographer. She's got lot to learn about the trade, but what she lacks in technical knowledge is trumped by an artistic eye that I can only dream of obtaining.

Here's another one of her gorgeous shots from a family portrait session with Quinn: Quinn, by KelleyQuinn, by Kelley

I think my role has changed as well. I now see myself in the role of mentor and I’m very excited.