We, the Roska family and I, left base at 8:45am to head to Pozzuoli for their family portrait, the rain looked like it may hold off for us, but after making a wrong turn, it wasn't hanging on for more than a few seconds longer.  Once we determined that we would need to get to the amphitheater so we could use the underground tunnels as shelter for their portrait, it started to pour.  Big, pelting rain drops.  

Having the Roska's as my first big family portrait was a huge blessing.  They are the most gracious, loving, patient family.  Having to do their portrait underground in the darkness was a new challenge and they were very patient with me as I worked through those challenges.  We dodged mud puddles, two inch deep mud, slippery marble ruins, rain drops all the while embracing the time we were spending together in this beautiful structure and staring in awe at the amazingness of it.

A brief history lesson on the Flavian Amphitheater, or Anfiteatro Flavio.  It is one of the oldest amphitheaters in Italy, built from AD 69-79.  During the persecutions of Diocletian, Roman emperor from 284-305, "it was the site of martyrdom for many a Christian." (site).  Like the Capua amphitheater from my previous post (here) you are free to wander the underground tunnels where they would house the animals for the matches and often the gladiators too.  This amphitheater is the third largest in Italy, second to the Coliseum and Capua.

Enjoy the pictures from this beautiful family, I know I had a wonderful time creating a few portraits for them!

Super cute Bella The darkness added a little bit of drama to the pictures with the intense shadows...I like shadows and really love the moodiness of this one. Sweet MaileMaile is their precious 15 year old lab. DanielHis smile is so big and genuine, it's hard for him to keep his eyes open when he does. Bring on the sun!A ray of light underground! JuliannaBeautiful inside and out. I am so in love with this photo of her...why fight it just embrace the rain! GarrettThe funny guy of the family A little balancing act The two that make it all happen. Such a wonderful, Godly couple. Thank you so much, Roska's, for a great morning in the rain!

Ciao amiche!

Mackenzie