As a parent we all recognize the following: Favorite stuffed animal is missing – everyone stressed out – child-dear terribly sad because of the seeming loss – gigantic relief when stuffed animal reappears (in the bed where it was -and should have been- to begin with). First and foremost, children are intimately connected to their own next of kin. However, I feel that their first self-chosen connection is the one for their favorite stuffed animal (which can be, as you know, any and everything between a blanket and a huge elephant). One of my projects is based on that thought, of which you here see another example: a lovely trio that I was fortunate enough to meet with during a wonderful afternoon. Oh, and before I forget: in case you want your child to be photographed like this – just let me know!

Some time ago I asked people to come join my project ‘Connection’ (click here for more) so I could photograph more children with their first love: his or her stuffed animal.  This resulted in a number of reactions, amongst which Sigrid who wanted to have her daughter Lizet portrayed. I already knew Lizet from our vacaction at Domaine Saint Pierre in France; a lovely little lady whom I would most definitely want to photograph with her adored favorite. So early October she came by, and besides the nice chat with Sigrid (and Lizet’s noisy play with my children) I had a lot of fun with Lizet. Enjoyed the time we spent together. I feel lucky to be able to meet so many nice people because of my camera. The result, I think, is very nice. Do have a look – above or for more on Flickr. And click here if you want to see the total series including Lizet. Hope you like them too!