Client Spotlight: The Langu Family’s Journey from Engagement to Parenthood
In April 2022, I had the pleasure of photographing the Langu family for their engagement shoot, which featured the newly engaged Rachel and Martina, along with their first “baby,” Milo—a beautiful boonie dog. They even went all out with matching flower crowns from Pualani Crown for everyone! We chose the iconic Ladder Beach for their session, with its rugged cliffs and breathtaking ocean views, which perfectly framed their love story. And let’s just say, Milo was serving main-character energy with his flower crown.
When the Langu family returned for a second session this year, they had a new addition: baby Joseph! This time, we switched up the location to the lush Sugar King Dock, capturing them in a garden setting that felt just right. Photographing a boonie dog and a baby together meant bringing treats, toys, and endless patience, but oh, was it worth it. Toward the end of the shoot, we found the secret to Joseph’s heartwarming smiles: his parents calling out, “Where’s the dinosaur?” This little trick got Joseph grinning from ear to ear, and those moments with him and Milo were just pure joy. Major parenting points for knowing the secret sauce to those million-dollar baby grins!
Here’s what Rachel had to say about their sessions and what these photos mean to their family.
Q&A with Rachel
What made you decide to book your first session with Milo, and what were you most excited about?
“We wanted to capture and remember this special moment in time. Martina proposed to me on the beach while we were walking Milo. It was perfect—just the three of us. We knew we wanted photos to celebrate the proposal as a memory to look back on. Of course, Milo had to be in the photo shoot; we call him our 'firstborn son.' Having professional photos to share with friends and family was so exciting, especially since neither of us had done a professional shoot before.”
How did it feel to return for a second session now that you have baby Joseph? Any new family dynamics you noticed?
“It felt magical, honestly. Life can get so fast-paced, but setting aside time for family photos was special. Celebrating our son’s first birthday with a shoot was another huge milestone. Our dynamic has evolved—how we look at each other, love each other, and lean on one another. Joseph and Milo bring us so much comfort and strength. We feel very blessed, and I hope that happiness shines through in the photos.”
If Milo could talk, what do you think he would say about being part of the family photos?
“I think Milo would say, ‘I love spending time with my mommies and my brother!’ He’s full of life and loyalty, always thrilled to be together as a family. Any time we’re all together, he’s a happy boy.”
How do you feel these photos tell the story of your family’s journey and growth over time?
“Our growth has been incredibly fast over the last few years. These photos remind us of what we’re working hard for—raising kind and thoughtful kids who carry forward that kindness. Imagining the future and documenting our journey through photos is so exciting.”
What advice would you give to other families considering a photoshoot? Any fun tips to make it memorable?
“Go for it! It’s natural to feel vulnerable, but the results are worth it. Take a risk, be brave, and book the shoot! Wear something you feel confident in, and always include your pets. They help calm the nerves and bring out the best in everyone.”
Anything else you’d like to add?
“I want to say thank you to Myla. You’re a treasure to the people of the CNMI, and your photography and kindness make every session special. We can’t wait until our next session! Baby #2???? lol”
Sessions like these are exactly why I do what I do—capturing all the love, laughs, and pure magic of families like the Langu’s as they grow and evolve. These photos aren’t just snapshots; they’re little time capsules of love, milestones, and togetherness. I can’t wait for more sessions with the Langu crew and all the new memories we’ll freeze in time (fingers crossed for a Baby #2 cameo, too)!
