The Fine's | Family Session

Jes has been one of my big supporters in starting up a part-time photography business and is one of my best friends.  I was so excited to take her and her son, Sam's, photos because these two have such a special and unique bond that I knew would photograph well.  They love to joke around, tickle each other and play karate, but even through all the goofiness, I think you'll be able to see in these pictures just how much they adore each other. 

Amanda + Todd | Engagement Session Part 2

I am pretty sure Amanda and Todd would have let me take pictures of them all night if I would have been able to.  They are so photogenic and obviously in love - I don't even have to pose them because these two lovebirds don't take their eyes (or hands) off each other.  Amanda told me she could happily check "become comfortable with your photographer" off her wedding checklist as I am pretty sure I know and have seen more than necessary about this couple ;)  I love how different things look as the sun goes down and gives everything a different feel. 

Amy + Ray | Wedding Session

Ray and Amy had a classic, picturesque wedding at a beautiful church downtown and a sunset reception overlooking the Capitol. They were one of the few couples I have photographed that have waited to see each other until the actual ceremony and there are a few pictures where you can see just how nervous they both were (and can you blame them ... they said their own written vows!) Once the ceremony was over though, the newleyweds were looking happy as ever and ready to party. I am so thankful they allowed me to be a part of their special day. They have amazing family and friends surrounding them and two beautiful girls. To Amy and Ray - best of luck in the future.

A little of this; A little of that

So I get asked quite a few questions by clients and figured I would wrap up three of the big ones in one nice little post ...
1)  Why don't you post more pictures of your own child/family? 
I don't ever intend to blow up this blog with photos of my daughter, husband, dog or future children (that is what Facebook is for).  However, from time to time I may put up new pictures.  Honestly, my camera doesn't come out very often when I am home (something I fully plan on changing in the near and not-so-busy-future ... yeah right)

2)  Our family photo session is coming up and I don't know how I should dress my kids?
The purpose of photos are to photograph life as it currently is.  While posed pictures are wonderful and great to be hung on walls, if you want to really capture your children, let them be them.  So if little Johnny loves jumping in mud puddles - don't put him in a pair of white shorts and want him to stay clean.  If you look at the pictures below, you'll notice that my daughter is an absolute mess - her hair is crazy and she has on random (mismatched) play clothes.  However these are some of my favorite photos of her, because it is just her being her.

My biggest suggestion for clothes are to go simple - solid colors photograph the best.  For families, try to stay in the same color family to tie it together but you don't need to be overly matchy.  If you wear black or white - add an accent of color to make your pictures pop.  Newborn pictures are best when they are naked, I promise!  Weddings ... well the whole white dress thing seems to work well ;)

3)  What is the best location for photos?
I know a ton of parks in the area and lots of great spots downtown and in Valley Junction.  You want a railroad - done.  A fountain - done.  A bridge - done.  Don't get too caught up in the location.  Once again - the pictures below were taken at my kitchen table with some good, natural lighting.  For a location, it's always best to choose a place where you, as a family, and your child feel 100% comfortable. 

Sneak Peek: Seidelman Wedding | 8.14.10

Haydyn | Newborn Session

Little Haydyn was awake for almost our entire session and could not decide whether she wanted to like the camera or not.  Like most newborns, she was just trying to figure out what was going on around her and get comfortable with it.  One thing was for sure, she loved being naked in the bean bag and had some of the sweetest, most thoughtful expressions.