A handful of times a year, I have the amazing privilege to be a part of a Red Thread Session.  Red Thread Sessions is an organization that connects adoptive families with photographers who take a special interest in adoption.  These sessions hold a special place in my heart because I'm capturing a once in a lifetime experience for these families.  And the courthouse sessions are extremely special because these families have already been operating as a family, sometimes for many months, and the courthouse finalization makes their family "official", in so many words.

The J Family illustrates this set-up to a "tee", they welcomed their sweet daughter to their family a few months prior via the selfless act of newborn adoption.  During those months they have poured themselves into creating the most loving environment for their daughter "M".  They have had so much support from their extended family with everyone jumping in, sometimes for weeks at a time, to care for M as mom and dad transition back to work. I couldn't have been any happier to celebrate with the J Family as they were declared official.         

I have said time and time again, that I shouldn't ever wear mascara when I photograph events like Courthouse Adoption Finalizations, Weddings, etc. because I always (and I mean always) shed a tear behind my camera.  And I wasn't the only one that shed a tear that day.  For many of these families, adoption is a long, complex process, with many ups and downs, and the culmination of a courthouse adoption session reminds you that all of the ups and downs were completely worth it.  

As the courthouse finalization came to an end, it was almost as if Baby M knew there was something to celebrate.  Look at how she is looking at her Momma and Daddy and look at that big ole' smile on her face.  Celebrate on Baby M, it is official!

What an amazing day, full of joy!  Mom is planning on making baby "M" a book of her first year and I know as she gets older she is going to cherish the photos from this day, as it is a clear display of just how much she is loved, and how much she was loved even before she was born.  

There is no feeling quite like being a part of a courthouse adoption ceremony, so J Family, thank you for allowing me to capture this special day for you.  I know these images will be a special part of "M's" story for years and years to come.  

Danielle Makia, Photographer is a South Denver Family Photography Business also specializing in Maternity, Children, In Home Newborns, Senior and Extended Family Sessions; as well as Intimate Weddings/Elopements and Event photography.  Service areas include Denver, Colorado; Aurora, Colorado; Highlands Ranch, Colorado and surrounding Denver suburbs.