Melanie and Neil asked me to meet them at Van Neste Square in Ridgewood last week for a chilly holiday card photo session. We took plenty of family shots at the park, but I thought it would be more fun to show…. FUN!
Except, Riley was feeling a little shy at the beginning and was trying to hide from me. But we took our time and didn’t rush. I’m always really patient with younger children until they get used to the camera.

Neil was great with her and really got her to open up.

Olivia, was ready for action from the moment we got there… as you can see in the Famous Matt Richman Photography Running Shot.

I love how you can see a little hint of the town of Ridgewood behind her. Those buildings haven’t changed in over 50 years. Nothing beats Ridgewood for small-town charm. And speaking of charm, Peyton was the real star of the show! It was really cold that morning, but he braved it like a champ.


Back at the house, we played a seriously fun game of hide-and-seek in the basement. I was “looking” everywhere for Olivia and Riley. Under the table, in the cabinet, even in the dryer! Don’t worry, Melanie, I didn’t really look in your dryer! I did the old, “I wonder if they’re in the dryer” routine and just banged on the door to make it sound like I looked in the dryer. I know all the tricks from playing hide-and-seek with my sons! But it didn’t take long before…
SURPRISE!

I should have known they’d be hiding behind the princess castle tent thingy. I still can’t figure out why the carrot is in Riley’s ear.
Maybe Olivia was so surprised that she stuck the carrot in Riley’s ear. Riley didn’t seem to mind though.
Peyton was a little young for hide-and-seek, so we let him hang out on his mat.

Then we took the girls outside. I love this crabby face! I think Riley was ready for me to go home.

But we still had some more fun before it was time to go.


Congratulations on your new baby, Melanie and Neil! He is in terrific company with his big sisters, and his kind parents.