One thing that I love about weddings is that they’re the best reunions.

My own family means the world to me and I love seeing this love in other people. It’s one of those things that remind you of how great life is.

I clearly value photography, but I don’t have very many photos of the four of us together. My little brother, Justin, is severely autistic and taking pictures is very difficult. About 2 years ago, he moved to an adult group home in Northern Utah and we have visited him every weekend since.

Recently, we flew out my cousin Alex from Texas to teach us how to fly fish and we all visited Justin together. Five minutes before we left home, I realized that this was a rare opportunity where we could take pictures of the four of us together. After all, Alex understands how Justin is, Justin wouldn’t have to leave his home, and Alex knows how to use a DSLR. I raided everyone’s closets and picked out clothes for everyone.

In order to get consistent, soft lighting, we were confined to the small area of shade created by the wall of Justin’s home. And we spent only about 10 minutes outside. Not because of Justin’s lack of interest, but because of my dad’s haha.

Justin is only 17 and he’s already 6’2″ which is great because my mom is only 5’2″. He also gives a sort of Wallace and Grimace grin when you tell him to smile for the camera.