If you have been following my blog, facebook, or twitter you know that I have been overly excited for the last few weeks for Joplin Smile, an amazing event taking place between now and October! On May 22nd a devastating tornado affected many lives in Joplin, Mo and a group of photographers, including myself, felt the need to come together and offer these beautiful families a chance to rebuild memories in the form of photos.

So on Sunday along with two wonderful photographers from Springfield, I headed down to Joplin and met two amazing families that lost pretty much everything, home, cars, photos…it was heartbreaking. But the fact that they have one another is all they are focused on now, and that is truly touching! This was such a humbling experience beyond words. I am thankful to have met these wonderful families and can only hope that these photos bring a little joy into their lives as they rebuild over the years to come!

Kristi and her husband were the first session I had for the day! They were such an amazing couple and I came to find out that her bike pretty much saved her life that day…she was driving home when the sirens sounded! By the grace of God she made it home and they were safe and sound!

Jamie and her beautiful daughter (who might I add is almost 7 this week!) also lost their home to the tornado that day! Jamie mentioned how she loved photos of her daughter and that unfortunately many were lost that day, including a wonderful canvas at age 2. So happy to be able to capture these moments for them!

If you know anyone affected by the tornado in Joplin who might be interested in booking a session through Joplin Smile, feel free to visit JoplinSmile.com for more information!

Like what you see? Wonderful, feel free to CONTACT Catherine for more information on destination wedding and lifestyle portrait photography or CONNECT with Catherine via Facebook!