Every year on Father’s Day, I do a session in honor of my dad—and this year’s might just take the cake. Not only did I get to capture the love and chaos of fatherhood, but I got to do it for someone I work with every day at my other job. Zach is not just a fantastic coworker—he’s also a veteran who served in the Air Force. So this session wasn’t just about celebrating Father’s Day, it was about honoring his service too.

Zach showed up with his girlfriend, three kids, and four dogs (yes, four!), and somehow managed to make it all look easy. The dogs were full of energy, the kids were cooperative, and the love between everyone was unmistakable. I swear, these images just radiate with joy, loyalty, and pride.

Being able to offer this session through my Families of Freedom Project made it extra meaningful. Every month, I offer a free session to a military or first responder family as a small thank-you for their sacrifice. Getting to do this on Father’s Day, for someone who gives so much of himself to his country, his family, and even his workplace—felt like the best way to wrap everything I love about this project into one shoot.

If you know someone who deserves this kind of gift—someone who’s served, supported, and sacrificed—head over to the Families of Freedom Project tab on my website and send in a nomination. I’d love to meet them and capture their story.