Magnus is a Cadet at the  State Military Institute in New Mexico.

He flew up to  NY  to visit the US Merchant Military Academy in Kings Point and spent  Thanksgiving weekend with his Aunt Shana and Uncle John in West Islip Long Island.

While visiting,  Shana asked me to take some portraits of her nephew.

Apart from the one black and white image of Magnus, all of the portraits below were taken on Shana & John’s front lawn during the late afternoon sun, which I love so much.

I applaud Magnus not only because for his service to our great country – but because  he is  such a fine young man – smart, talented, kind and very respectful.

I know he is going to go far in life and achieve great things.

Since Shana and John were married 20 years this 2014…I took some portraits of them to commemorate this wonderful milestone in their lives as well.

Sharing some of my favorites from their session…

Congratulations and much love to all!

MJ Shana John - Fall Portraits (2 of 4)

 Long Island Portrait Photographer - Family PortraitsMJ Shana John - Fall Portraits (2 of 8)MJ Shana John - Fall Portraits (3 of 8)MJ Shana John - Fall Portraits (1 of 4)

MJ Shana John - Fall Portraits (1 of 1)

Had to share one of  John fooling around… =)

MJ Shana John - Fall Portraits (4 of 8)

Beautiful Shana.

To me, portraits are about capturing personality, subtle nuances and expression…all while using beautiful light – not about fancy locations.

Locations and backgrounds are secondary.

MJ Shana John - Fall Portraits (5 of 8)MJ Shana John - Fall Portraits (6 of 8)

MJ Shana John - Fall Portraits (7 of 8)MJ Shana John - Fall Portraits (8 of 8)MJ Shana John - Fall Portraits (3 of 4)

last image-3

To love and be loved…