An Adoption Journey Full of Faith: A Sunrise Family Session in Virginia Beach

One thing that I never want to take for granted is living in a place where I can see sunrises like this one. The 1st Street Jetty at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront has always been one of my favorite spots for sunrise sessions, and mornings like this one make the early wake-up so worth it.

This session was extra special because it wasn’t just any family in front of my camera; it was one of my very close friends, Marisa, and her beautiful growing family.

Marisa and I have been close for several years. We met when Judah was little, and since then, I’ve had the honor of watching her family grow in the most meaningful ways. One thing that has always connected us deeply is our shared belief in the sanctity of life.

Years ago, God placed adoption on John and Marisa’s hearts. With Marisa being a social worker, compassion for others is second nature to her, and the call to adopt was something they approached with prayerful intention.

About a year and a half ago, their official adoption journey began. A journey filled with excitement, challenges, and many ups and downs (as adoption stories often are). Even after they were matched, uncertainty still lingered. I watched them lean into their faith in such a powerful way, trusting God’s plan for their family and for the life of the baby they were committed to parenting.

And then… the call came. Their daughter had been born in Florida, and it was time to go.

After about five weeks in Florida they were finally able to come home! Now we all get to experience the joy of meeting sweet Eden and watching Marisa and John step into this new season of parenting two children.

Marisa and John carry deep gratitude for Eden’s birth parents; individuals who made an incredibly difficult decision out of love. Their choice will have an eternal impact, and that is something this family will always hold close to their hearts.

I’m so grateful for the chance to document their story along the way…from photographing their family in the summer of 2024 for their adoption booklet to now capturing the outcome of their family growing from 3 to 4.

Their story is such a great reminder of just how faithful and good God is. This story is one of hope, love, perseverance, and answered prayers.

Sunrise sessions at the Virginia Beach oceanfront are always beautiful, but this one will forever be one of my favorites.