Honoring a Brave Life: A Salt Lake Family Photographer’s Tribute to Claire

vanessa51606
Apr 29
2 min read

Updated: Jul 16

June 2016- April 2025

From 2016 to 2025, I had the privilege of photographing an extraordinary little girl named Claire—one of fewer than 100 living with RCDP. As a Salt Lake family photographer, I’ve learned that true legacy is found in the everyday courage, big love, and unwavering care that define a family’s journey.

A Tiny Community

Rhizomelic Chondrodysplasia Punctata (RCDP) affects fewer than 100 people worldwide. It's a severe genetic form of dwarfism that brings immense medical complexity—but also unyielding strength. I’ve been blessed to photograph two remarkable children with RCDP, including the sweet spirit of Claire.

How I Met Claire

I first connected with Claire and her family in 2018, introduced through extended family whose baby also had RCDP. Remarkably, Quin and Claire were born weeks apart, at the same hospital—two tiny fighters born in tandem. I captured Quin’s first breath at birth and later his first birthday. Through those images, I found Claire’s family, and we've met annually since for on-location lifestyle sessions that tell their families story.

Watching a Family Love Fully

Over the years, I’ve witnessed so much: the gentle adoration from Claire’s parents, their careful, everyday nurturing, the growth of their family with two more kiddos. And I’ve seen Claire herself—always bursting with laughter, loving movement and bouncing, the bumpier the stroller ride the better. She was unapologetically herself: giggling, vibrant, and devoted to her dad. Her playful spirit and bright smile are moments I’ll never forget.

Remembering Through Images

As a lifestyle family photographer in Utah, I’m drawn to capturing these real, messy, beautiful chapters of life. Not just posed perfection, but the glorious imperfections—the laughter, the hope, the little heartbeats of family love.

These photos are more than pictures. They’re proof. Proof that love carried us. That life was lived fully— despite the challenges. That every moment with Claire was sacred.

Hear Her Family’s Story

If you’d like to hear more about Claire’s story — as shared by her mom — you’re invited to listen here.

Follow more of these real-life stories and moments: @hom.photography

Claire’s light was a gift, and her story stays with me. If your family carries a courageous journey or everyday quiet love, I’d be honored to help document it—honestly, beautifully, and fully.