Military Homecoming Photographer in Norfolk, Virginia
Norfolk, Virginia
As a military homecoming photographer and fellow Navy spouse living in Virginia, military deployments and homecomings are all too familiar. Recently, I had the honor of photographing a Navy military homecoming in Norfolk, Virginia.
The wait is long but so worth it!
The day began with arriving on base early in the morning with zero stress as I have base access as a military spouse. I always make it a point to arrive at least an hour and a half before the scheduled boat pull-in time, to ensure I have plenty of time to beat traffic, scope out the best vantage points and prepare for the emotional moments of the day to come.
On this particular day, I met up with Lisa, a fellow Navy wife and friend, who had been eagerly awaiting her husband’s return for the past 8, almost 9 months. We were one of the first to arrive, and slowly watched as more families and military family support teams arrived. Despite the prolonged wait that usually comes with homecomings, the atmosphere was filled with a huge sense of anticipation and joy. We shared stories about our spouses, and the time seemed to pass more quickly thanks to experiences we all seemed to share.
When the USS Carter Hall finally pulled in, the sight of the sailors disembarking was nothing short of heartwarming. Watching the families and couples reunite, seeing the tears of joy and the embraces that seemed to last forever, was a reminder of why I love what I do.
As a photographer, capturing these moments is a privilege. Each photo and part of the day truly captures the raw, unfiltered emotions that define these reunions. The laughter, the tears, the sheer relief and happiness—it’s all incredibly moving. But beyond the photos, as a military wife myself, I understand the struggles and sacrifices that come with this life. I’m there not just to capture the moment, but to support these families as someone who truly understands their position. It’s a beautiful way to connect with such a loving community. Every homecoming is a testament to resilience, love, and the unbreakable bond that military families share.
To Lisa and Shane,
Thank you both for allowing me to join you for such a special moment! Seeing Lisa’s nerves disappear the minute she was in your arms again was so beautiful. Thank you for your service Shane, and Lisa, you’re a rockstar wife and friend!
Photos by: Karlie Whitt Photography
Hey, I’m Karlie! A Wedding and Lifestyle Photographer based in Norfolk, Virginia. I travel all around DMV for weddings, sessions, and military homecomings! Are you preparing for a military homecoming in Virginia, Maryland, or any other surrounding states and in search of a photographer? You found the right place! Reach out to me here!
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