Capturing a Military Homecoming: A Story of Love, Travel, and Timeless Emotion
Richmond International Airport (RIC) Military Homecoming Filled With Emotion:
As a Stafford Virginia military photographer and Stafford Virginia portrait photographer, some of the most meaningful moments I get to photograph are military homecomings. There’s nothing quite like the emotion of reuniting after months apart. Jeff and Jessica’s reunion at Richmond International Airport was no exception.
Preparing for a Military Homecoming Session
When it comes to documenting a military homecoming, being prepared is everything. Here’s how I got ready for this unforgettable shoot:
Location: Richmond International Airport (RIC), about 90 minutes from Stafford, VA
Client: Jessica, planning a surprise reunion with her boyfriend Jeff after a 10-month deployment
Arrival Time: I arrived about 40 minutes before Jeff's flight was expected to land
We spent some time talking through what to expect, but mostly we just chatted. Jessica was a bundle of nerves and excitement—she even said it felt like she was going on their first date all over again.
Capturing the Moment
The airport lighting was just right, creating a clean and soft atmosphere that worked beautifully with the emotion of the moment. When Jeff came down the escalators, Jessica spotted him instantly. She yelled, “There he is!”, tossed her bag aside, and ran straight into his arms.
I had positioned myself to move easily around other travelers, allowing me to capture:
The anticipation of Jessica waiting
The first glimpse of Jeff descending the escalator
The run and embrace that followed
The quiet, emotional moments after the initial excitement
It was a short session, but those few minutes were packed with real, raw emotion.
Tips for Photographing Military Homecomings
Arrive early: Give yourself extra time to find good lighting, meet your client, and plan angles
Plan for unpredictability: Flights change, people move quickly, and emotions are high
Be mobile: Keep gear light and be ready to move with the moment
Let the emotions happen: Don’t force anything—some of the best shots happen when you simply let your clients be present with one another
A Quick Session, A Lifetime of Meaning
While the actual photography portion may only last a few minutes, the impact of these images will last a lifetime. Military families endure so much, and being able to give them a visual memory of their reunion is incredibly rewarding.
Want to learn more about how I capture these kinds of stories? Visit the military events section of my investment page to see available packages and examples.
You can also browse more emotional sessions on my main portfolio or follow the latest stories on Instagram.
If you’re welcoming someone home soon and want to freeze that moment in time forever, I’d love to be part of your story.
Let’s make those first hugs and happy tears last forever.
