Last October, my daughter Tiffany and her husband, Eric invited me to join them on a vacation to help out with the children and give them the opportunity to enjoy a couple of date nights. This wasn’t just any vacation—it was to São Miguel, Azores, an island off the coast of Portugal. The idea of spending quality time with my two youngest grandsons in such a breathtaking location with my daughter and her family ( and my camera) was irresistible. Of course, I also hoped to capture some amazing portraits of my grandsons amidst the island’s stunning scenery.
As we toured the island, the small towns we visited were charming and full of character. One town in particular had a delightful little fruit market with beautiful baskets of fruit displayed outside the door. Meyer absolutely loved it. The market owners were so kind and patient, allowing Meyer to select two pieces of fruit to buy. They only charged him two pennies, which made him beam with pride at his purchase. It was such a simple but unforgettable moment.
In that same little town, we explored a beautiful botanical garden that felt like stepping into a fairytale. Meyer was absolutely captivated by the goldfish swimming in the pond. He spent ages watching them dart back and forth, his face full of wonder. Nearby, the pond was surrounded by mossy trees, their thick roots twisting into the ground like something out of a storybook. It was there, in that serene and magical spot, that I managed to capture a perfect picture of Conrad. Even at just five months old, he seemed enchanted by the peacefulness of the scene.
As a fine art photographer, my favorite images are the ones that tell a story, and one of my most cherished moments from the trip was capturing Meyer holding a lantern on the garden pathway at dusk. That evening, Tiffany, my daughter, was incredibly thoughtful, ensuring I didn’t miss the chance to take Meyer’s picture despite the rain earlier in the day. Her idea to use the villa’s garden and the old lantern as a prop transformed a simple moment into something magical. The resulting image not only preserved a memory but also conveyed a timeless story, making it an unforgettable highlight of the week.
From the moment we arrived, São Miguel felt like a slice of paradise. The island was nothing short of magical, with its lush landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and vibrant greenery. The locals were incredibly friendly and welcoming, making the experience even more memorable.
The island’s beauty was beyond words, but these images tell a story far more meaningful—a family embracing the joy of being together in paradise. These moments, shared with my youngest daughter Tiffany and her family, are treasures I’ll hold close to my heart forever.
Let these images inspire you to preserve your own cherished memories in a way that will last forever.
If a vacation to paradise is calling your name, I wholeheartedly recommend this breathtaking island. However, the destination is secondary to the company you keep—any getaway will be perfect when shared with family.
Cherish these fleeting moments; they’re truly priceless. Take every opportunity to create memories with your loved ones, for they are treasures you’ll hold forever.
Until the next vacation,
Marsha