the liles family!

I had the pleasure of meeting Crystal a few years ago at our local YMCA. We would both attend Z's hip hop class religiously, and I was so glad she was there to share a laugh when I occasionally forgot the difference between "right" and "left". I was so used to Crystal doing the routines next to me, that when she wasn't there, I felt like I was trying to learn the steps blindfolded! Even though we were both faithful attendees of the class, there was a big difference between my work out routine and Crystal's. She usually put in another hour before or after class of weight and machine training! I don't know how she did it, but I can only strive to be as fit as she is (even when she's 7+ months pregnant).

I'm so happy that I got a chance to spend some non-gym time with Crystal, meet her family, and take some maternity shots for them. We had the shoot at Crystal's mom's home, which is one of those houses that makes you say "wow!". When I first got there, I met Kendall, their little girl. We began a marathon game of chase/hide-n'-seek, and became fast friends. She is about the cutest gal you'll ever lay eyes on.

Then playtime turned to that of the camera variety, and here are some of the results...

I can't get enough of laughing moments like these.

Ok, why is Crystal not modeling for mom-to-be fashion magazines???!!!

I adore this moment between Crystal and Ken. They have that natural affection that is so beautiful to photograph.

Crystal's mom is a very talented lady, who made matching pajamas for the three of them. How cool is that? So, we decided to take this "reading in bed" shot that I think is super fun.

"Real" family moment #1....eyeball removal

In about a month, they are expecting a new little boy named Christian (stay tuned for shots after he arrives). I think Kendall will be a fantastic big sister.

Crystal and I had talked about a maternity shot I had taken for my friend Sloane, and we decided to do a version of it with her. I have no problem revisiting ideas since each person in the shot is so unique. Here's Crystal's "pearls" shot...

"Real" family moment #2....the body slam

Here's that etherial look only achieved by moms-to-be...

I thought I'd end the pics with a few layouts I put together. Crystal and Ken, thank you so much for letting me share this special time with you and your gorgeous family!

To see a slideshow of more images of the wonderful Liles family, click HERE