The Story Behind Our May Catalog Cover

When we first laid our eyes on this photo from writer/photographer Kelle Hampton, we knew we had to use it for our catalog cover. And, after hearing the story behind the photo in Kelle’s own words, we knew we had to share it with you.

“It was a moment that took me by surprise—not that I hadn’t anticipated tearing up when my eldest daughter met her new brother, but I guess I hadn’t prepared for exactly what that scene would look like—a completely breathtaking display of love.  For all the preparation I had given her those last months of my pregnancy—holding up my hands to show how he’d be “about this big,” describing how babies cried, demonstrating with dolls how newborns needed to be held with their heads safely supported—I couldn’t have expected the instant and natural way my little girl mothered her baby brother the moment he was placed in her arms.  From my hospital bed I watched as my daughter protectively embraced my new son, slowly and silently bringing her nose to his until they touched.  And they stayed like that for a good minute while I wiped tears from my cheeks and reached for my camera.  Here she just met him and yet suddenly, he belonged to her.  I knew then I need not stress over how we’d all adjust to a new baby or what we’d have to do to ensure everyone felt loved.  We’d figure it out. 

Instantly, instinctively, he fit into the spaces of our lives that were waiting for him.  Where there is family, there is love.” – Kelle Hampton

Kelle Hampton is the photographer and writer behind Enjoying the Small Things, the award-winning blog where she weaves together photography and words to share with fellow life enthusiasts. She currently resides in Naples, Florida with her family.