In The Box Build: A Dad/Daughter Project

I grew up with a family “woodworker”. For as long as I can remember, my Papa would build us kids the most wonderful things. The oldest thing I remember is my step stool that’s painted with my name. Various other heirloom items are stored in my and my parent’s houses. Those include doll cribs and beds, dress up closets, other doll furniture and several photography props.

When he passed away, my brother took over. He built my custom wall that you’ve probably seen at wedding shows. Recently, my dad and Jake have started helping me with projects. I was a bit surprised to learn that it wasn’t a common thing to have family members who did woodworking projects. A photographer friend of mine asked about this in the box build, as she didn’t have a “designated family woodworker”.

After months of back and forth, I finally figured out a way to make her dreams of this big 4ft by 4ft box come true. Being this would be my first big project, I asked my dad for assistance. Of course, this meant he took charge and next thing I knew he was waiting on me for painting. Our in the box build turned out better than I expected.

When I walked into the garage to see the box, this beautiful custom piece met me. It doesn’t look like much on its own, but from a photographer standpoint it was perfect. Locking casters, a spot for prop baskets and smooth edges so dresses don’t get snagged, make this a dream prop. Of course, this box was huge. When it came time to deliver, it wouldn’t fit in my trailer. Instead we had to prop it in the back of my dad’s truck, and strap it down so it wouldn’t move.

While I’d photographed the box in my dad’s garage, I wanted to make sure it would be perfect in my friend’s studio. My kids were willing participants when they learned they got to sit IN the box! The editing process was a bit of a learning curve, but I figured it out. I heard from my friend that the box is perfect and she loves it too! Keep your eyes peeled in the future, because I’m going to need to use this box more than once!

The best part is that I got to build it with my dad. That’s not something that happens every day (even though we see each other almost that much).