I had to share a little bit from this awesome Family Photography Session at the USNA! These are extra special people who I had worked with before and was extra excited to photograph now! They are extremely fun and have been sponsoring Midshipmen for over ten 10 years! They always bring their Mids (Whom the kiddos call “Big Boys” ) to sessions and I am here for it!
As I said before, for over a decade, the McAdoos have opened their hearts and home as a sponsor family to Midshipmen, bridging the gap between rigorous Naval Academy life and the warmth of a family environment. On a recent sunny day, I had the pleasure of capturing this unique bond during a family photoshoot that was anything but ordinary.
It’s not every day that you stumble upon a story that warms the heart and tickles the funny bone, but the McAdoo family, affectionately known as the Mc A Zoo, manages to do just that. Nestled in the heart of tradition and honor at the United States Naval Academy (USNA), this extraordinary family has woven a tapestry of love, laughter, and unwavering support for midshipmen far from their homes.
Imagine the picturesque setting of the Naval Academy, where history and future leaders converge, and add to that scene five spirited midshipmen and the dynamic McAdoo family. The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter and antics only the Mc A Zoo could produce. Each photograph captured more than just smiles; they encapsulated a sense of belonging and mutual admiration that words can scarcely describe.
The relationship between the McAdoo children and the midshipmen is nothing short of adorable! To the kids, these midshipmen are their big brothers – heroes in their eyes. The affection is palpably mutual, with each midshipman truly embracing their role in the family. Watching them interact, you can’t help but feel that this is what family is all about, and giggle a bit as the littles clearly run the show and mom is playfully annoyed with dad, who is hilariously oblivious to this. It creates the funniest scene.
The McAdoos have a special affinity for the USNA wrestling team, sponsoring many wrestlers over the years. Their involvement doesn’t stop at sponsorship; their home is a hub of activity, from team gatherings to helping hands for a big renovation project. And when it comes to matches, you can bet the Mc A Zoo is there, cheering louder than anyone else. Even little brother wrestles and dad coaches!
Sponsor families like the McAdoos play a crucial role in the lives of USNA Midshipmen. They provide a home away from home, a place to relax and recharge away from the demands of military training. But the Mc A Zoo takes it to another level, infusing every interaction with humor and warmth.
As a photographer, I’ve had the privilege of working with many families, but there’s something special about the Mc A Zoo. Their zest for life, coupled with their deep commitment to supporting our future military leaders, makes every moment with them unforgettable. I can’t wait for our next family photo session at USNA together. I know full well that it will be filled with laughter, love, and a little bit of chaos – just the way the McAZoo likes it.
To the McAdoo family and the Midshipmen they sponsor, thank you for reminding us of the beauty of extended families and the strength found in togetherness. Here’s to many more years of fun, fellowship, and unforgettable memories at the Naval Academy.
Kelly is a USNA Midshipman photography specialist in Annapolis, Maryland. She is also a Navy veteran, wife, and mom of 4. She talks way too much and loves to do anything outside! Find more out more about her on her website! Kelly Eskelsen Photography
