I have always loved the 4th of July so much.

Something about the fireworks, the gathering with friends and family during one of the hottest months of the year, grilling and laughing and swimming. I love the events, the memories of setting off fountains and weird spinning frogs in our friends’ driveway that scared me so bad and made me run and laugh so hard I almost peed myself. Boating on the lake, eating ice cream and Popsicles, getting tan, and making memories. That’s why I love the 4th, and why I was SO happy when my senior ambassador girls were down with my vision to capture all those feelings this day brings. Leading up to the day I was a little worried I had “Too much.” I had bought sparklers, paint, I had my American Flag scarves, mini flags, a polaroid camera, confetti poppers, smoke bombs, and Popsicles- how were we ever going to fit it all into one session? But OH, we did, and it was amazing! Our entire day was absolutely perfect. We encountered some interesting people in the water, laughed so hard when the popscicles had all but melted but we were still TRYING to get some photos, when a random guy asked my assistant Alle to hold his boat while he put it in the water an we turned around to Alle holding the ENTIRE boat on a line and looking absolutely helpless, and when Bella got so excited about an idea all she could say was “OOOH, AHH, OH! AHH!!” and Kate crumpled into a ball on the dock for laughing so hard. The sunset was perfect and serene- the epitome of a calm summer night with friends. The smoke bombs were tricky but beautiful, and the day was everything I was hoping for for this type of session. These girls inspire me SO much and even said during their session “You wouldn’t even guess we all hardly know each other!” because they all are so welcoming and opening and invite people into their spaces with open arms. I am so thankful to have them as my first set of ambassadors and can’t wait for all the other memories this year will bring. I hope like us, you’re able to enjoy this holiday with loved ones despite all that’s going on in our world. Be safe, be responsible, and remember to enjoy ever moment! Happy 4th of July from Makayla Madden Photography, Heather, Bella, Kate, and Kambrei!

SMOKE BOMBS: Enola Gaye (Smoke bombs should always be used on flat, non-flammable surfaces and far away from anything flammable. Please exercise caution as they can let off sparks when your clients light them. A bucket with water is recommended to put them in after they’ve cooled off and safely transport back home with you to dispose of) CONFETTI POPPERS: Amazon (Popping them onto a tarp and bringing a battery powered mini vacuum is recommended for cleanup in outdoor locations, but buying biodegradable tissue paper confetti also works so that any leftover pieces can safely give back to the earth!)