There's something nice about a routine. It's known. It's familiar. It's comforting. Not too long ago, I met up with the Patels for a family session, and while they're anything but routine, the past two years we've done photography together twice a year like clock work. I always look forward to these sessions because 1) it's very relaxed since the kids are used to - if not oblivious to - me now, and 2) it means Christmas is right around the corner. This time we initiated a new rookie into the program. Neil (below left) recently got engaged to Sheetal, so this session turned out to be an engagement/family session. Here's a sneak peek at a few of my favorites. { From left to right: Neil, Sheetal, big brother Jai, his sidekick Rishi, Minal and finally Suki. }

Jai's just a little rockstar. Period.

... and Rishi's gonna be easy on the eyes, too, future ladies.

A few of the soon-to-be happy couple. That didn't sound right... of course they're already happy, but what I mea... you know what I meant.

A little texturification adds a nice touch, doesn't it?

And finally I've gotta thank little, Rishi. Check him out pushing the ginormous photo bag around. This kid's got a future in this industry.