Amber Glanville Photography

it's spring!

2010-04-26T13:38:00.000-07:00

Time for some changes! Thanks to a friend, I have a great new logo, and I'm working on some new marketing material centered around the theme of my photography as life-art. I also recently decided it was time to move over to a wordpress platform for my photography blog. I'm going to leave this one online for the archives, but I will no longer be blogging here. C'mon over and check out the new blog!

http://amberglanville.com/blog

life...

2010-04-11T20:41:00.000-07:00

it's been busy! Life is really full right now (yeah, I know... when isn't it?)

In a nutshell, we sold our cabinet business of seven years. We are moving (move out date is in ONE WEEK... eek!) We're heading down to So Cal for at least a few weeks to transfer the shop tools to the new owner. When we get back, we are going to remodel the vintage Airstream trailer that came from Peter's grandparents to live in for the summer (live simply! live lightly!) We're going to be free spirits this summer -- floating a bit until Peter starts paramedic school in the fall. It sounds sooo lovely to me! I have been longing to live a life less cluttered... less busy (with things anyway.) I'm so excited about letting go and being free to pursue some dreams.

I'm still going to be shooting! Oh, yes... most definitely. I've been working on some fun new stuff and can't wait to share it with you. I'm filling up fast for this summer already, so if you want to get on the schedule for a summer session, email me soon.

I started a separate blog to post about our family's adventures this summer. You all know how sporadic I am at blogging, but I'm going to try my darnedest. Here is a link to that site: http://freelyamber.blogspot.com/

mini-me

2010-03-31T16:16:00.000-07:00

Sarah.

2010-03-30T21:00:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago I ran into my sister downtown (well, thankfully I didn't literally run into her!! We met up spontaneously -- much to my delight!)

She looked adorable. I had my camera with me. Ah, sweet fate.

Thanks for a fun ten minutes, sis! =)

xoxo | my valentines

2010-02-16T10:26:00.000-08:00

Mine own... (as J would say)

I adore these images. I went out a week ago on a beautiful Sunday -- with my beautiful "wittle" ones (another Jo-word)and my beautiful man (the guy I've been in love with since I was fourteen.) Peter didn't make it into any of these shots, but he was there in the background cracking the kids up and protecting the treasured red balloons from flying off before their time. :-) We celebrated seven years of marriage last Monday. Between our anniversary and Vday, everywhere I turn lately I'm reminded of the beauty of loving and being loved.

Love is a such a potent word... and even though we probably use it too lightly at times -- most likely we aren't saying it nearly as often as we should. I am making it a point to tell my family more often that I love them. Adore them. Want to wrap them up and squeeze them silly!!! And I'm making it a point to show them that I love them, too.

Joanna Faith, Henry Isaiah, and Peter Ryan: you guys make my world spin. I can't imagine my life without your giggles and hugs and ridiculous jokes and kisses.

::thank you::

And an old one in honor of our anniversary... taken in Portland last fall. (*Photo credit JAZ Photography Thanks, Jamie!)

Happy Vday!

2010-02-14T10:12:00.000-08:00

bright eyes | newborn session

2010-02-12T11:18:00.000-08:00

Oh, I love babies! And I really enjoyed this newborn session -- Graden was such a precious, amiable little chap! He made his debut almost a month before he was expected, so his mom and I had to juggle our schedules to make this session work, but I'm so glad it did. I loved meeting his family -- and his really cool neighbors. We ended up shooting this session at the neighbor's house because of their great big windows and phenomenal natural light inside. It's a beautiful home and the sun just flooded in.

It's always a little tricky getting a basket shot set up, but I'm happy to try and love it when it works!

There's nothing quite as angelic as a sleeping newborn face...

Greg and Sandra (and gracious neighbors!) thank you for such a beautiful afternoon... it was a pleasure meeting you and a privilege getting to take these images of your sweet son.

more crafting | lampshade love

2010-02-05T09:54:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share another crafting project that I did recently. At the beginning of winter I caught the "spring" bug early, and started painting various pieces of our furniture in bright, happy colors -- yellows and apple greens. My house went from mostly neutrals/dark woods to *shingy* bright colors and whites. I'm LOVING it! Paint is just marvelous... I love how it can instantly change the look of a room.

Along with the paint, I was inspired to switch out some of the other decor in my living room and wanted to find a special vintage lamp that would be a central piece. I walked into one of my favorite second-hand stores hoping to find "it" and walked out with this (and a huge smile on my face!) Peter was waiting for me at the truck just rolling his eyes (granted, it DID have a really, really ugly lampshade to begin with.)

I found several lampshades that I adored at Anthropologie (of course!) but they were out of my budget. So I decided to make an out-of-the-ordinary lampshade myself. I found a basic off-white fabric shade at Target... it was the perfect size, shape and material for what I had in mind.

I bought a variety of fat quarters from the fabric store for the next part. I drew petal and bird designs on cardboard and cut out my own stencils which I then used to cut pieces from the fabric.

Then I glued the birds and petals onto the shade in random patterns using fabric glue.

I was really happy with the way it turned out, but it still needed a little something more...

...enter embroidery thread and a fat ol' needle! The material on the lampshade made it possible to stitch stems and leaves around the flowers, and feet and beaks on the birds.

So there you go. A fun, easy project for personalizing a lampshade.

sun. swing. smile.

2010-01-20T20:53:00.000-08:00

Just the right amount of snow! | Lauren & Caleb

2010-01-14T18:17:00.000-08:00

My best friend's little sister is great friends with my little sis... We all grew up together and have a plethora of fun, crazy, embarrassing, happy memories of the years we spent growing up in the country. It was all very "Anne of Green Gables." Lauren now lives on the east coast with her husband. Lauren and Caleb were able to make it out for Christmas and asked if I had any spots open for a session. I was a wee bit worried about the inevitable snow/cold combination that we were sure to face in late December, but I agreed -- and we ended up with the PERFECT day! The light was diffused beautifully by the cloud cover and there was the lightest skiff of snow to transform downtown Spokane into a fairy tale world.

Lauren and Caleb were up for anything, and we had a fabulous time. Sarah (Lauren's sister, not to be confused with MY sister who is also a Sarah... yes, that was confusing growing up!) came along with Baby Jack, and we laughed and chatted like old times. Lauren and Caleb are very passionate about their causes, including many that are close to my heart like orphan awareness, justice issues and compassionate giving -- and I always love talking with them!

It's very rare that the first photo of a session winds up as my favorite, but it is in this case. I love it.

This little alley by Mizuna is sooo much fun to shoot in -- I love the richness of the brick and all of the lines... I'm a line girl.

Have I mentioned that Lauren is drop-dead gorgeous?

We stopped by the carousel for a minute on our way to Riverfront Park to warm up -- and the light through the window was awesome.

By the time we headed back outside, it was snowing -- but just wee flakes that made it possible to continue shooting, and they added such a fun, wintry element to the pictures.

By the time we were done on the bridge we were ready to go inside again to warm up, so we headed over to Starbucks. I couldn't resist a couple of goofy pics inside! :-)

Every time we drive past the Davenport I have this next image in my head. It was so fulfilling to finally get to shoot it!

We wrapped up at the downtown Cathedral. Sooooo amazing. This series of photos with their classy outfits and the majestic building in the background reminds me of Florence.

Lauren and Caleb rocked these steps!

And then Lauren rocked her sleeveless dress despite the cold. She's amazing. :-)

Lauren and Caleb, thanks for such a memorable afternoon! I feel privileged to have had the chance to capture your love in this season of your lives. I wish you all the best this year!!

more family! | Dan & Channelle

2010-01-12T15:53:00.000-08:00

Peter has many more siblings than I do. His family is one of those large, loving, loud types that you see on movies where everyone at the dinner table is talking, and the kids are running in and out, and the dogs are barking... and everyone feels so happy and welcomed -- and it's all just a great deal of fun getting together!

Peter's entire family was able to fly or drive in for a Christmas dinner and it was so good seeing the ones that live far away. His older brother, Daniel, and his wife, Channelle, flew in from DC. We don't get to see them very often, so it was special having them here over Christmas. Dan works in military intelligence and Channelle is studying to become a nutritionist. Yes... a spy and a health nut -- the G. family IS cool. ;-) Well, Dan's not really a spy... but he can't exactly tell us details about his job either, so of course I'm intrigued.

They've been married for four years and haven't had any professional photos since their wedding -- so when they asked if I'd be up for doing a quick session during their visit, I happily agreed. However, I came very close to regretting my "yes" when I stepped out of the truck into the ARCTIC that particular morning. This was the coldest session I've shot to date. Holy Buckets!! Don't let the sun fool ya!

It's crazy how much they look alike!

I really, really love the next one of Channelle. I love sun-drenched images any time of the year -- but especially in the winter!

We shot these up in Northport at that same great brick building that I scouted out for Ryan and Sarah's session. I am officially in love with it now. Just look at that awesome vintage 7up sign!

They wanted some playful, funny pics. My poor, frozen brain was about to shut off, so this was all that I was able come up with. ;-) Play leapfrog in the road. That'll be funny!

I recently added a couple of bright, happy, paper parasols to my prop collection and I was so happy for this chance to pull one out. I can't wait to use my pink ones with a couple of little girls this summer. I'm seeing white dresses, a golden wheat field, lots of sun and the pink parasols. Any takers?

I'm glad we decided to pull over for one last stop at the old highway road. Our timing was perfect -- the sun was just peeking above the mountain behind us. I actually like the bleakness of the background. It's not often that I love bleakness in photos, but this time it really worked for us.

Dan and Channelle, it was fun! I'm glad it worked out to shoot these; I'm just sorry it was so cold. You're troopers! Beautiful, highly-photogenic troopers! :-)

another brisk November day | the S family

2010-01-10T19:30:00.000-08:00

(*Still catching up, but getting closer!)

I've known Trent and Tamara for years, but since moving to Idaho, we rarely see each other. It was a treat getting to spend a little time with them around Thanksgiving to shoot some photos of their growing family (they recently welcomed twins! My hat is off!)

This was the end of November -- but not only was there no snow, there was actually GREEN grass! Wowsa! This almost never happens in NE Washington state... especially if you live up in the mountains. It was great!

Such cute girls! I love the curious, delighted expressions and the twinkle in their eyes. I think I would have a lot of fun getting to know these two better.

I love the look that Baby T gave me in this next one. Who ARE you and what are you doing in my space?

His sister seemed a little more laid-back. I wonder if that's indicative of their future personalities?

Thanks, S family, for such a great "mini" session. I'm glad things are going so well with your newly expanded family!! You guys rock.

all in the family | the C fam

2010-01-08T18:24:00.000-08:00

This was a mini session that I squeezed into a November visit for my husband's sister and family. It's always fun and a bit challenging to shoot family since I don't have the element of novelty to inspire giggles and awe from the kids. Oh no. These children know me well... (and are, in fact, some of the nieces and nephews that I referenced in this post about losing my 'good aunt status' by handing out homemade gifts this Christmas.) By the look on Gideon's face in this first pic, I think I was dangerously close to losing that status pre-Christmas due to this session.

Such a fun family... I know I've said it before, but I really feel so fortunate to have married into such a great family.

The light was just amazing that afternoon! Such a warm glow -- almost cruelly so considering the temp was close to freezing.

Virginia is such a beautiful girl, and every bit as sweet. I'm so thankful that my kids have such awesome relatives. They LOVE their cousins and really look up to them.

Gideon was not really feeling the love that afternoon, though...

Thankfully Jud and Anne were...

And Hunter. What a kid! He and Henry are two peas in a mischievous pod. We have to keep a very close eye on them when they're together... ;-)

Thanks all for a great time! Love you guys.

It wasn't as warm as it looks | The C Family

2010-01-07T13:18:00.000-08:00

Winter sessions.

Pros: amazing light, less background distraction, earlier sunsets, amazing light!

Cons: Freaking COLD!!!!!!

I guess I can't complain too much since I am usually bundled in no less than seventeen layers of thermal, silk, wool, down and Gore-tex. It's really only my fingers that suffer. My poor subjects though... now THAT's a different story. All I can say is thank goodness I'm past the point of begging people to let me take their picture (woot! people book me now! ;-) So at least I don't have any guilt that I'm making them suffer. It is completely voluntary freezation on their end. (And their ends ARE freezing!! Ha hahaha...)

Actually, I really don't mind the cold all that much since I've had such gorgeous light to shoot in and such gorgeous subjects. I just pretend like I'm dreading it -- for the kids sake. Nothing like a sympathetic eye roll in the direction of their mother and I've got them eating out of my hand (fingerless gloved hand, that is.) I can't believe she's making you go out in this weather! Sheesh... :-)

I'm going to post a few sessions from November to catch up to the present. This first one was with my best friend and her beautiful, growing family. You'll probably recognize them... they've been gracing this blog since its inception.

Zoe was not so very happy at first... Don't we all feel like making that face on occasion?? ;-)

Jack had his first birthday at the end of October, so this session doubled as a family shoot and "Jack's one year" photos. Such a little charmer... (and in Henry's hat. He gets a lot of Henry's best hand-me-downs, although at some point in the future I think the tables will turn. Just a hunch.)

I really, really love the next one of Zoe.

A little smoochin' on the tracks. MUCH harder than it looks! ;-)

I just love Ryan and Sarah. Two of my favorites peeps in the whole world. Isn't a bonus when you really get along with your best friend's husband?!? And when your husband gets along with your best friend?... and when the hubbies really like each other too!?! Wow -- win, win, WIN!

Oh, Zoe. You are such a unique, amazing kid..

I'm glad they decided to brave the cold a little longer for an outfit change. And we scored on the location! Who knew there was such a great, grungy, urban spot in little ol' Northport??

Ryan, Sarah, Jack and Zoe: Thanks for another great session! And your friendship!

for L&C:

2010-01-03T11:01:00.001-08:00

for D&C:

2010-01-03T11:00:00.000-08:00

for Sandra:

2010-01-03T10:59:00.000-08:00

Happy 2010! (and a long overdue post!)

2010-01-01T19:40:00.000-08:00

2010. I'm so excited about this year... lots of good stuff ahead. I've been thinking about some goals for the year in terms of my photography. Besides the usual "upgrade gear" (MKII anyone?) I'd like to attend a workshop or two, maybe hit WPPI, and keep up with this durn blog better. :-) Yes, it's been a whole month since my last post. Yes, I am about six sessions behind. Yes, I've been busy! I had a lot of Christmas card orders come in (thanks, all!) and despite my vow to take some time off this winter, also had several sessions recently. The lack of snow this winter is making it possible to continue shooting outdoors! I'm loving the way the light is so different this time of the year. It makes for some striking photos.

December was a very crafty month for me. I'm not sure where it came from, but I was on an artsy creative kick. I wandered through the aisles at Michaels with a dazed, in-love expression and overflowing basket -- much like the proverbial kid in the candy shop. I surfed design and art blogs with fervor and ate up the inspiration that is so abundant on the internet. I'm not sure if this crafty kick is here to stay, but its been fun thus far! I ended up making all handmade Christmas gifts for both sides of our family. Here's a peek for you. Maybe it will spark an idea for your own project -- I love getting ideas from other people and then customizing them.

To start with I made these magnets. I used a variety of scrapbook papers with bright colors and geometric designs as well as photos from magazines as the base. I cut them out with a circle punch and glued them face-up to the bottom of the clear marbles you find in the floral section of Michaels. Then I finished them off with a magnet on the flat side as well. I also printed various words and added one per batch.

I found the tins at Michaels as well, but didn't like the Christmas themed design on the lids, so I recovered them with my own paper. Peter bought me some handmade India paper at a Fair Trade show recently, and I was able to put some of it to good use. Hot glue is just amazing, isn't it?

Then (even though I am NOT a seamstress!) I attempted double-sided cloth napkins with a flower applique on the backside. I drew a petal on cardboard and used it as the template, then attached it to the fabric with an iron-on application. Not sure it was the best route, but it worked.

This next one was my favorite project (and most time-consuming.) Have you ever heard of needle-felting? I hadn't either until a month ago when my lovely neighbor showed me and sparked an addiction. I fondly refer to my frenetic late-night activity as "animal stabbing" but "needle-felting" is the official term. :-) I ended up making about twenty assorted animals and dolls -- turning most of them into ornaments by adding the twine. I made a few more giraffes, reindeer, and dolls after this pic was taken, as well as three snowmen (which were so fat and adorable!) and a whole little family of baby ducklings to go with Mama Duck. Yeah, I really got into it. :-)

A few close-ups:

This is how it's done. You start with dyed wool:

Then you begin shaping it and with a special needle (and a thick piece of foam to protect the knees) start stabbing it like crazy. The stabbing binds the fibers in the wool together and felts it. It takes a whole lot of stabbing, but eventually it becomes hard and felted. I made the legs/arms/necks/heads separately and then stabbed them into the body -- the same with the hair, ears, halters, etc.

Word to the wise: make sure you're current on your tetanus shot as you WILL stab yourself! My poor hand looks like it doubles as a pin cushion.

For packaging I found these colorful take-out boxes (at Michaels, of course!) and made up little cards that gave each animal a unique identity (name, favorite color, etc) Anything to try and make Aunt Amber's handmade elephant a little more special to that seven-year-old nephew that just really wanted a power ranger from Walmart. Sigh. I hope the nieces and nephews forgive my whim this year. :-)

And finally, Peter helped me make these boards. We used reclaimed lumber from a 200-year-old East Coast fence and used magnetic paint and chalkboard paint for the bottom part. Magnetic paint is STRONG! We applied two coats and those tester magnets were NOT going to fall off!

I also made up a few pairs of earrings and some butterfly hair clips, but I didn't get any pics of those. I'm thinking I should start a little sooner if I decide to do the same thing next Christmas, but I really love the idea of making gifts. It's personal and goes against the Christmas consumerism that I try so hard to avoid. Christmas should be about Christ, love, family, traditions, quality time... but it's so hard to teach that to kids with the massive assault of advertising during the last two months of the year. Maybe making a tradition of "make it, bake it, grow it, sew it" will help with that. (And somewhere a five-year-old niece is groaning in dismay... ;-)

Happy Crafting!

Whassup?!?

2009-12-03T15:54:00.000-08:00

def: {from the "Urban Dictionary" online} slang "A question as to the state of somebody's well being; a warm greeting; a slang version of the question 'what is up?'
As in: Whassup buddie?!"

So I'm behind in my blogging again... but I'm getting caught up on a lot of fun projects and the last of this year's sessions -- which means that blog post flurries are definitely on the horizon! Until then, here's my goofy son to keep you entertained. ;-)

It's that time of the year...

2009-11-18T10:27:00.000-08:00

Christmas. It's coming! I loooove this season. We have a plethora of family birthdays in November, and the double holidays mean spending lots of time with friends and family -- plus it's so cozy inside by the fire and I haven't gone stir crazy yet! Yup -- it's a great time of the year...

I finally got the chance to design Amber G Photo Christmas cards 2009! You'll find the sample front/back designs below. Any of the colors and fonts can be changed -- besides the obvious photos and wording to customize your cards. I will email you the custom versions for approval, and once the order is placed it will take 1-2 weeks for me to get them back and then on to you.

There's nothing like a custom design and some gorgeous family photos to bring a smile to your friends and family this Christmas!

(There's my plug!) -- and here's the scoop...

*Available to Amber G Photo clients only (your choice of images from your 2009 session in color or b&w)

*Double-sided flat cards in two size options: 5x7 and 5x5

*Price includes envelopes

*Choose from the following paper stock: standard, linen, or recycled

*Price: $35 for 25 cards and envelopes -- which works out to $1.40 per card
(including shipping to your door)

Your choice of the following options:

#1 (5x5)

front:

back:

#2 (5x7)

front:

back:

#3 (5x5)

front:

back:

#4 (5x7)

front:

back:

#5 (5x7)

front:

back:

(P.S. yes, names have been changed for privacy... I hope you all like the new names I gave you... ;-)

.five.

2009-11-11T23:32:00.000-08:00

My sweet girl turned five today. How is that possible? We must have skipped a year or something, because there's no way it's been five years since that eventful trip to the hospital...

I can't even say in words how much I love this little girl.

As we were getting ready to go out on our bday "date" this afternoon, I asked Jo if she wanted me to get some birthday pictures of her. She said it was fine as long as her new stick horse could come along. Stick Horse was a FIND last night at the dollar store (who knew?) and he has become a fifth appendage today. I smiled to myself when she said that...

I had planned on taking her downtown... somewhere urban with lots of color. But ya know, that's not Jo at all. She is as country and wild at heart as it gets. She's never happier than when she's been outside all day -- wind blown and free. Give her anything horse related and she'll play for hours. This girl needed her five year pics taken in a field. Wide open spaces and room to ride her fine $1 steed. ;-)

Like I said, I just can't say how much I adore her.

{AmWest display}

2009-11-10T11:25:00.000-08:00

I have a display set up at American West Bank in Hayden (across from Super One) if anyone local wants to drop in and see some of my work in print. It will be up for about two weeks. :-)

And for my curious blogging buddies -- here's a pic.

another wee one {little L.}

2009-11-09T22:41:00.000-08:00

So many adorable babies lately!! I've been resisting the baby bug most courageously! ;-)

This little sweetheart is the second daughter of our dear friends -- Ross and Tessa. We love them to pieces and are always thrilled when they call us to let us know they're coming down for a visit. (About the only upside to moving away from good friends is that now we get to have weekend sleepovers whenever someone comes down to stay with us! There are just so many fun things about spending the entire weekend with another family that you miss in normal life. ;-) This last visit from Ross and Tessa was about a month after Lila Kate was born, so of course I couldn't keep my camera bag shut!

Thank you Tessa, for always being up for a few pics! I love that you love photography as well, and I couldn't ask for a more beautiful guinea pig! And thanks for lending your kids to me as well!! We adore your family and we can't wait for your next visit...

when in Portland, get thee to the zoo!

2009-11-05T10:17:00.000-08:00

We did!

And loved it...

As soon as we walked in the front gate, Henry saw this big boy and started going nuts about the "big goat" -- Jo, all-wise and all-knowing at almost-five said in her most grown up voice, "oh, mom. Henry is so silly. He thinks that's a REAL goat." he hee... should have seen her face when I told her it WAS real! ;-)

Here we are about to head into the main part... we were ALL happy to be doing something special as a family. It's been an insanely busy year with Peter's classes and my work. This little trip was JUST what the doctor ordered.

The first thing we heard after walking down into the main zoo part was a "bang, bang, bang"... Assuming it was construction we paid it no mind, but rounding the corner we discovered this crafty little guy banging his frozen-shrimp-in-a-water-bottle breakfast against the glass. The kids BUSTED a gut laughing at him! :-) Thanks, Mr. Sea Otter, for the vastly entertaining experience! My kids will not soon forget you, OR your frozen shrimp.

The sea lions were incredible. I mean really, truly incredible. I had no idea they were that big -- or that graceful! It was cool seeing one up close since I'd just seen them in the wild on my trip to Alaska. Jamie and I were within ten feet of one in the harbor in Petersburg -- one of the fishing boats was throwing scraps overboard and the lion was helping himself! But we really only saw his whiskers poking up through the water, so it was difficult to judge size. I certainly wouldn't want to meet one alone in a dark alley! ;-)

This guy looked quite bored...

but I think he enjoyed the little visit with my kiddos...

LOOK at the size of those paws!!!!!!

Henry has some growing to do...

The lioness was a highlight for me. They'd just brought lions back to the zoo after almost a decade of not having any -- so I think she was still getting used to her surroundings. She saw the painted dogs running around in the confine behind us and she was on edge pacing back and forth at the glass. Made for some amazing shots!

Jojo and me at the Zebras. They were tired.

So were we...

What a great experience!! :-)

...and this is why I don't usually bring my kids to work! :-)

2009-11-04T20:04:00.000-08:00

.fall is a beautiful thing.

2009-11-02T23:48:00.000-08:00

Adam & Haley {part two}

2009-10-28T21:27:00.000-07:00

This is the second part of the wedding that I shot last month in Alaska. Part One can be found here (or just scroll down. Be warned, these are LONG posts!)

I have never seen a ceremony quite like it! Adam and Haley got married on a bridge with a Celtic theme (complete with swords for the guys) and she came down the "aisle" on a raft. Everything was so green! It was gorgeous -- definitely a dream for photos. :-)

Adam and Haley met through their shared love of bladesmithing. Adam is a master knife-maker and Haley is amazing as well. They placed an anvil at the altar and I loved that personal touch.

Once again, thanks to Jamie for these wide angles of the ceremony -- as well as the ones from her side of the river. It was so helpful having someone on the other bank to catch that angle...

There were so many details that I loved about this wedding -- the rose petals on the water being one of them...

I think more than one person got a little misty-eyed during the vows.

These next ones are hands-down my favorites from the whole weekend. I love the completely candid expressions of joy and love. It was an unplanned little reception time, but so, so special.

There were so many great details at the reception too. And the food... well, let's just say that I called Peter on his cell and asked him to pick up some shrimp while I was editing these because the food looked sooo good! :-)

The reception site was gorgeous!

Jamie snagged these next ones of Adam dancing with his niece, the flowergirl.

She was adorable! And she rocked those XtraTufs! (the AK State Boot) :-)

Getting the cake to the reception was a bit of an endeavor by boat across the bay -- but it made it safely and was gorgeous.

The bride and groom's first dance:

And a swing dance with her brother:

The toasts were awesome -- totally touching and so, so funny.

Due to their bladesmith background, regular knives just wouldn't have cut it. :-)

We pulled off to do a few family photos during the reception... these are my favorites:

And a few from the rest of the reception...

(Jamie shot this last one -- talk about good timing!)

Adam and Haley, thank you for trusting me to shoot your wedding! It was a joy and a privilege... such a beautiful day. You are very special people individually, and completely dynamic together! I can't wait to see what the future holds for you -- I wish you ALL the best in the years ahead!!

Adam & Haley {part one}

2009-10-28T18:17:00.000-07:00

It feels sooo good to have this wedding finished! I've been plugging away at it for the last six weeks here and there in between my regular sessions. Thanks for your patience, Adam and Haley!!

I'm going to post it in two parts because there are so, so many great shots -- it would be torture to have to squeeze it down to one post. I ended up shooting a lot of pre-wedding photos during the two days leading up to the wedding. I may get around to posting some of those eventually. I can't believe how much they fit into those three days! Since Muddy River is mainly accessed by boat, the family just kept shuttling people over for days to join those of us already on the "island" (not really an island -- but definitely felt that remote!)

Here's a picture of Muddy River from the skiff as we boated in:

And here's a closer look at the house -- it was amazing! So, so beautiful... and large enough to accommodate the wedding crowd! :-)

Jamie took the shot above. I feel so fortunate to have had one of my closest friends and Photographer Extraordinaire along for this Alaska adventure. Jamie came with me to second-shoot the wedding... and not only was I incredibly grateful to have her there catching the shots that I was missing, but I was SO glad to have my friend there to share the trip with. It's always such a bonding experience to travel with someone -- especially to remote locations. Jamie and I actually met in Liberia (West Africa) when we were there bringing our sons home two years ago. It was quite a bonding way to meet, and we've become very close friends over the years since. Thank you, Jamie, for being up for anything!

Whew! that was a bit of a rabbit trail! :-) Back to Alaska now... We were all holding our breaths about the weather because it POURED the day before the ceremony. I mean really, really poured! We had the rehearsal in the rain anyway -- and I don't think there was a "plan B" if the rain continued the next day. Jamie and I got fairly creative with umbrellas and rain gear, but were definitely not thrilled about the downpour since our gear isn't water sealed.

It did make for some great photos, though! :-)

(do you see the raindrops bouncing off the water? They were like Jurassic Park raindrops or something!)

Too bad I don't have any pics of Jamie and I taking turns holding the umbrella over each other's head while we quickly pulled a camera out from several layers of rain gear and sweaters to snap a couple of shots before frantically stuffing it back in again. What a hoot! :-)

By Saturday evening though, it started to clear and the sky was AMAZING. I love this shot of the house all lit up and bustling inside with family and friends.

The morning of the wedding dawned clear, and you couldn't ask for a more perfect day!

A few of my favorite photos from the morning before the ceremony:

love this shot of Haley's mom...

I also love this one of Adam's mom. She peeked in to see how things were coming and I love the expression on her face as she saw her son's bride getting ready.

Haley's brother, Chase, also peeked in. He was actually her "Man of Honor" -- but was excused from the bridal prep. :-) They have a very special friendship and he was so sweet when he saw his sister transformed into a bride.

We were running short on time, so I only had a moment to snap a couple of photos of Haley at the house after she was ready before we had to hike out to the ceremony site. I really, really wanted to get this next shot, so I ran outside barefoot to save time putting on boots -- and I learned that running around barefoot in Alaska isn't the best idea. I almost sliced my toe off, but I got the shot and I love it! That's what really matters, right? :-)

It was a bit of a walk out to the ceremony site, and I loved the signs along the way. It was such a unique location for a wedding. The forest was absolutely, stunningly beautiful!

And here is Chase, performing some of his Man-of-Honor duties. I started referring to Haley's attendants as "bridespeople" -- to be completely politically correct and all. :-)

I think this next one is my favorite of Haley by herself. I love how her eyes are just sparkling.

Mmmmm, and I love this next one, too. Very Maid Marian. Actually, the whole wedding made me feel like I had been transported back in time to the era of William Wallace. It was surreal.

LOVE this next one too! Okay, I just love them all! It was really hard narrowing it down as much as I did for this already loooong post!

Jamie shot the groomsmen portraits while I was with the girls getting ready. The next two are my favorites. I think she is planning on posting some of her favorites, so check out her blog for more of the guys! They really hammed it up for her! :-)

Adam and Haley did not want to see each other before the wedding, so we shot portraits immediately after the ceremony. Time was limited, so I turned into a (nice) drill sergeant! :-) They were all very amiable though, and I think we did okay, even with the limited time frame. :-) Here are a few favorites:

We also shot Adam and Haley's portraits after the ceremony... and was it ever a treat! They were so incredibly sweet with each other. Jamie and I just sort of pointed them in the right direction and then snapped like crazy. Bridal portraits are my favorite part of shooting weddings and with a setting like this one, I was in heaven!

I think that's enough for one post. Part two will be the actual ceremony and reception... stay tuned! :-)

Loni and Andy {AK}

2009-10-25T18:27:00.000-07:00

I've been burning the midnight oil the last two nights since I got home from our Oregon road trip trying to get the rest of the pics from Alaska processed (a loooong wedding post is coming soon to a blog near YOU!! ;-) Anyway, I ran across these photos that I took of Loni and Andy during the reception. I love these shots together as a series! Jamie and I really hit if off with these two during our stay in Muddy River. I've known Loni for several years, but didn't really know her very well, and had not yet met her husband, Andy (who is way cool!) Thanks guys for hanging with us and for not laughing at our not-appropriate-for-AK attire! And Andy, sorry the whole umbrella gig didn't work out. Maybe we'll fly you in for our next Alaskan wedding! he he... :-)

{the E. family}

2009-10-24T22:06:00.000-07:00

You'll probably recognize these beautiful people -- I shot Nate and Talia's wedding back in August. We didn't have the time to shoot many family photos before their ceremony, so she scheduled a family session for this fall... and wanted to include pictures of the twins to commemorate their first birthday.

We met up at the Finch Aboretum to snag some Autumn color and it was gorgeous! Unfortunately it was during our little cold snap a couple of weeks ago, so despite the sun glow, it was cold out there! They were all such troopers, and I love what we ended up with.

There's really something to be said about having a family photographer. I think the kids felt a lot more comfortable with me this time around, and I certainly had a better idea of their personalities going into this session. I love knowing kids enough to interact with them a little more than if we just had met!

The twins were such a hoot! To call them adorable doesn't even come close -- and of course, it's that times TWO! :-)

I swear, Talia is Super-Mom!! She's amazing. :-)

I love these next ones of Jack. He never sat in one place for long. (Of course, neither did Olivia!)

The colors were just SO gorgeous. I want to shoot all my sessions in the fall, please!

I love the next three shots together. I wanted to get a series with each of the older kids in the same location...

Some mommy lovin'...

Nate, Talia, and kids -- thanks for a GREAT session! You're a fabulously fun family and it was a pleasure getting to capture you guys in this season of your lives!

little miss O.

2009-10-23T21:26:00.000-07:00

This is Olivia... (*sigh*) Does it GET any more precious???

I had been looking forward to this session all summer and was so excited when Olivia's mom emailed me to let me know that she was scheduled to make her debut on October 2. There's nothing quite like a fresh little life... the innocence, the newness, the teeniest little details of a miniature person. It's awe-inspiring.

Olivia was wide awake for the first half of her session. She was very, very aware for being only six days old... and I loved how she looked around so inquisitively -- as if she was trying to figure it all out.

The yawns did slip out every now and then, however!

This is Martini. He was very concerned about me being there at first, but I think he started warming up to me by the end. As long as I didn't move too fast we were okay. I had to get a couple of shots of him since the poor guy has had to adjust to a tiny little creature usurping his position in the house.

Olivia finally got tired enough to do some sleepy poses for us. :-)

I LOVED this rockin' retro chair in the corner of the nursery! Jaime found it at a yard sale. What a FIND!

Ahhhhh, love.

I did a few of Jaime with Olivia in the chair as the sun streamed in. I like them best in b&w because of the journalistic feel.

Olivia has a beautiful nursery!

John's mom was in town so I was able to get some precious shots of her with her grandbaby. I love these -- you can just feel how much Olivia is adored already!

John and Jaime -- thanks again for such a special session and the privilege of capturing your sweet girl in the first week of her life. She's a doll... and she's blessed to have such great parents!

a girl and her dog...

2009-10-20T20:52:00.000-07:00

Jo is such an little animal-lover -- without partiality. If it's an animal, she's in love! We talk about someday having pet squirrels, goats, giraffes, lions, gerbils, monkeys (most hypothetical, of course!!) At the moment though, the only pet we have is our beloved boxer-lab, Sophie. Jo and Soph have the strongest bond and sweetest friendship. They'll play together for hours on end. I looked out the window last week and couldn't help dropping what I was doing to run for my camera... I don't take enough candids of my kids these days, so I treasure the images I got that afternoon!

This next one is going on my wall for sure!

another favorite

2009-10-17T23:05:00.000-07:00

I was processing some photos tonight to wrap up a session that I shot last weekend and I came across this image. Just had to share it! :-)

the {Finch} tree

2009-10-17T11:16:00.000-07:00

I love, love, LOVE this tree. My love affair started the first time I shot a session at the Finch Arboretum earlier this year, and it's grown every time I go back. I've been hoping to get the perfect image to print as a gallery wrap for my mantel and I think this was the moment I was waiting for. :-)

Solveig {senior session}

2009-10-16T13:54:00.000-07:00

Well, this was a first for me! Solveig decided that she wanted to do a sunrise session, so we met down at the lake right before the sun peeked over the mountains. Have I mentioned that I am not a morning person? Well, I'm NOT... unless it's one or two in the morning, which is often my bedtime (I process my sessions and work on photo stuff late at night after the kids are in bed.) So this was a stretch, but once we got out there I was soooo glad! I didn't realize how gorgeous the morning glow is for photography! I know all about the setting sun magic hour, but there's a corresponding rising hour and it's just as magical! ;-)

Thankfully Solveig was completely gracious toward me and my un-morningness... and we had a great time ringing in the day.

Just LOOK at that light! Mmmmm hmmmmm!

It was awfully chilly out there though... especially on the water! I resembled a marshmallow with all my bundling, but poor Solveig was out there sans boots for a bit. Brrr! Not exactly fair and balanced shooting, but ya know, we gotta get the shots! ;-)

I LOVE this next one...

...and these with the shadows. Early morning shadows run opposite from what I'm used to in the evening! It was fun playing with some backlighting toward a different direction.

When we made it to the next location and Solveig changed into this amazing dress, I was STOKED! She totally rocked the color! It's one of my current fav colors and I knew it would pull the bright blue out of her eyes (seriously the brightest blue eyes I've ever seen. Solveig, can I have your hair and eyes, please?? :-)

After the tracks we headed over to the Human Rights Institute in search of some brick. We found some that was okay, but I really loved the pics that we took in front of the mission statement engraved on an outside wall. I just really like the way the text adds some texture to the image.

Thanks for a great morning, Solveig! You're an extraordinary person and it was delightful meeting you and hanging out for a bit. Good luck with all of your pursuits this year and in the years to come!

A favorite.

2009-10-12T12:33:00.000-07:00

This is for you, Talia. Like I said yesterday, I LOVE this image. It may actually be one of my all-time favs! I think it's just hilarious how the kids are goofing off all around -- while you and Nate are sitting calmly in the middle. You're an amazing mom! ;-) I'm looking forward to processing the rest of your pics!

Monica {senior session}

2009-10-11T08:54:00.000-07:00

This was the perfect senior session. Monica was fun and full of life and laughter... and up for whatever crazy ideas I had! ;-) We had a great time trapezing around downtown Spokane and Riverfront Park. I love the area and have always wanted to shoot a session there, so I was delighted when she suggested it.

To top it off, it was a gorgeous, sunny day and Monica is an incredibly beautiful gal -- inside and out! I was thrilled with the images on my LCD and even more happy after I got home and uploaded them!

I LOVE all the color in these!

My mom met us at the park and watched the kiddos while I shot this session. We kept bumping in to them over by the carousel and that was really fun. Henry almost always wants to come with me to my sessions "to make the people smile" -- he has this whole goofy dancing routine that he does and it definitely brings a smile to a person's face!

The fountains made a great backdrop -- I tried to talk her into running through the water, but she wasn't down with that idea. ;-)

We wandered down to the small footbridge overlooking the falls. I love that bridge -- it's where Peter proposed. And he didn't even drop the ring over the edge (as he feared he might... hee hee) It's such a gorgeous spot!

Monica, thanks for such a fun afternoon! I'm excited for you as you set off on the grand adventure of the rest of your life. I wish you all the best!

giving back {Aug&Sept}

2009-10-09T23:52:00.000-07:00

I've been so busy the last two months that I haven't had the chance yet to share the last couple of organizations that I've been able to support through my photography. The first is an awesome organization based in CO that a good adoption friend volunteers for, Children's Hopechest. My friend is running a half-marathon later this year and all the money she raises in sponsorship goes toward Children's Hopechest and their work in Uganda with orphans. They do some amazing things all over the world on the behalf of orphans, and they are definitely worth checking out!

I was also able to sponsor a girl in Burkina Faso to go to school this year through Until All Have Homes. I've sponsored through UAHH before and have been so blessed by the work they are doing in Burkina. They still have more children in need of sponsors, so if it's something you are interested in helping with, check out their website for more info.

I posted a link in my sidebar to a new website that was launched recently (Hopemongers) because I love their approach to making a difference. What a great idea: a website dedicated to bringing change through totally doable micro-giving, connecting people who want to give with awesome organizations doing so much good around the globe. We are SO RICH in this country --most of us could be giving so much more than we do... of our time, our hearts, our finances, our prayers, support and love. It's a big, big world but we are all neighbors and I firmly believe that the more we give, the richer we become in the things that really matter. Anyway, definitely check out this great site sometime!

Thank you to my clients for making it possible for me to give to these organizations. I have been so blessed this year to do what I love, and it's very important to me to give freely from what I have been so blessed with. I will continue to give to various organizations on a monthly basis through my photography business -- so if you have an organization that you support, or a cause you believe in that I could support as well, let me know! I love hearing about people's passions!

Olivia

2009-10-08T17:37:00.000-07:00

You'll be seeing a lot more of this little doll once I finish processing the rest of her newborn session, but I wanted to post this one tonight for John and Jaime.

She's so beautiful, guys. Congrats!!

{pumpkins + apple cider + sweaters + fall = H.A.P.P.Y}

2009-10-05T15:30:00.001-07:00

I LOOOOOOOOVE fall. Love it. LOVE it.

Every year I get the craziest excited tingle in my stomach like butterflies when I first smell that crisp fall-is-coming scent on the air at the end of August. *Sigh* It's just the perfect season! Gorgeous, vibrant colors, chunky knit sweaters and beanies, hot apple cider, pumpkin-flavored-everything, crisp air and cold noses, smells of smokiness and coziness and happiness, neighborhood football games, an abundance of produce straight out of the garden, long evenings inside curled up by the fire with a good book. I always want to go out and buy school supplies just for the hey of it. It's a great season -- so much anticipation. Although I think part of that for me is that the best things in my life started in the fall... my birthday. my relationship with the love of my life. my daughter. my son. There's a lot of psychological anticipation built into this time of the year for me!

Every year for the last eight or so we've loaded up and headed to Greenbluff for their harvest festivities. Sometimes it rains. Sometimes the crowds are so thick it's suffocating! Sometimes we head out by ourselves, and sometimes we go with a whole crew of favorite people. This year was perfect! The weather was glorious, the crowds were minimal and the pumpkin donuts were perfection!! We met up with Peter's bro, Drew and his wife, Danielle (yes, for those that read my blog, they were the couple whose wedding I shot in Portland in June.) We had SUCH a great time! Sarah -- these pics are for you. We missed you!!! Next year, 'K?

There are many farms out at Greenbluff, and we have our favorites. I love the smaller ones, but the kids really love all the hullabaloo, so we always stop at the fancier ones as well. This one place has a large play area filled with dried peas. It's ingenious -- as long as they don't get lodged up a nostril (we had a close call this time. :-) It feels so good to walk barefoot in dried peas! Funny, but true.

Peter decided to bury H. (Hence the nostril incident.) Henry is such a sport! :-)

Waiting for Peter to buy lunch, listening to some live old-time country music, and philosophizing about chickens. :-) I love my kids.

One word: YUMMMMMMMMMM

Doggone it, I caught Peter with his eyes half-shut, but I do love this picture, so I'm sharing it anyway. I love how happy we all look... these are the memories we'll be taking about at Christmas twenty years from now. Thinking about that just makes me smile.

And people say Jo looks like me. Ha!

The kids loved all of the old tractors to climb on at this farm. I swear my Grandpa had a tractor just like the one Jo sat in when I was a kid. I have vivid memories of a hard metal-seated tractor ride...

Yay for pumpkins and pumpkin patches!

This is a CLASSIC Henry look. :-)

Jo is absolutely in love with horses right now, so the horse-drawn wagons were a highlight for her. I feel so bad sometimes that we don't have ponies for the kids since both Peter and I were so blessed to grow up around ponies and horses and all things farm-related. But we will. It's just a matter of timing and I have to keep telling her that... and I have to keep reminding her that, no, a pony won't fit in the house. :-) We do have a very, very wonderful dog who lets Jo put a horse halter on her though, and that helps.

Okay, so I've heard crazy good things about the pumpkin donuts at the Harvest House. Last year we went to Greenbluff on a very busy day and the line was the longest line I have EVER seen. I asked someone about it and they said they had been waiting in line (between traffic lines, parking lines, and the actual donut line) for HOURS! I was amazed and have been looking forward to trying one all twelve months since. And I was NOT disappointed. It's heaven in a bite. (and even better the next day!)

They make them right there... I think donuts are fascinating. Yes, Mom -- horribly unhealthy, but fascinating all the same! :-)

Not sure? She gets it from her dad.

I love this one of Drew and Danielle.

And this one cracks me up. This is pretty much how my kids take pictures. :-)

And the yumminess after we got home.

I knew you wanted a closer look at those pumpkin donuts, so here they are. Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm! Get yourself out to Greenbluff and try one! :-)

{Now booking for 2010}

2009-10-05T15:19:00.000-07:00

Thanks for a fabulous year! I've enjoyed meeting everyone and have loved EVERY session that I've had the privilege of shooting the past six months. I'm now (over)booked for the rest of this year, but I'm starting to schedule next year, so let me know if you want to pencil in a date. I will be taking January-March off to focus on my family, but I am starting to schedule my April-Oct 2010 sessions. Looking forward to seeing you then! :-)

{The G. family}

2009-10-04T19:02:00.000-07:00

This was another session that I shot in August and am just now getting around to posting here -- although you've seen at least a few of them already because I fell in love with a couple in particular and have used the images on my blog and website liberally.

Peter built cabinets for Ron and Lori last winter, so I'd met them before, but I was happy to meet the whole family and shoot this session while their younger daughter was up visiting from FL. I got to visit their beautiful property overlooking the lake to shoot these -- it's such a gorgeous setting and I was able to get some photos with the golden light right before sunset, so that was a treat for sure!

As usual, it was tough narrowing it down to a few favorites to share on my blog, but this first one is a definite favorite. CJ was a HAM in front of the camera! I was loving it!

Ron and Lori's oldest daughter lives in the area with her family and they had just welcomed their baby girl into the world weeks earlier. She was a tiny little peanut, but a very special part of these family photos!

CJ obviously loved his little sister very much. He was such a sweetheart during this session, and I still can't get over how he worked the camera. :-)

I do a lot of these "everyone walk toward me" shots with large families, but it's because I almost always love the results... the whole family walking and interacting with each other often results in a moment like this one. :-)

We also did some of the whole family with both grandmothers -- I loved this one on their front porch. I always love shooting around porches. I'm a porch gal.

And then we did a few of just Ron, Lori and their girls.

Having been the oldest of only two girls in my family as well, I really got a kick out of their dynamic. And I loved this shot. :-)

Some of my favorites of Will and Jessica's family:

I loved this candid moment between dad and baby...

And CJ. What can I say? He's quite the kid!!

Ron and Lori are rockin' grandparents... I could just tell!

And I'm sure Chelsea is a rockin' aunt as well. :-) I can't wait to be an auntie to my sister's kids. C'mon, Sarah -- what are you waiting for?!?

As the light started to get more magical, the kids turned in and I shot some of Ron and Lori together for their 30th anniversary as well as some of the girls together, and Will and Jessica (...and I found out where CJ gets his ability to work the camera! :-D )

Ron, Lori, and all: thanks for such a memorable evening and for trusting me to snap these images of your beautiful family. It was such a treat! Ron and Lori, congratulations on 30 years of marriage, and Chelsea, congrats on the engagement! I wish you all the best.

{Lake Chelan: part three}

2009-09-30T17:54:00.000-07:00

This is the final part of the extended family session that I shot at Lake Chelan six weeks ago. If you missed parts one and two, just scroll down. :-)

Carey and Dave have five beautiful and totally sweet kids. I loved getting to know them a little as I shot these photos. I was so impressed by their joyfulness as a family -- it was an absolute treat getting to do this session!

I really love this next one, despite the shadows from the leaves on the trees behind us. It was one of those random candids that worked!

Here are some of my favorite shots of the kids individually -- I always love the challenge of trying to draw out a kid's personality enough in a short amount of time to be able to capture who they are... sometimes I feel like I really hit the mark, and other times I'm sure I'm way off -- but it's fun to try!

LOVE the smiles and hats in this one! Aren't they adorable??? :-)

I got to pull Dave and Carey aside for some photos before finishing the session and I was so, so happy when I spotted the orange life-preserver at the end of the dock! They rocked it, too!

Carey, thank you so much for all the love you've shown Henry over the last year. Thanks also for this fabulous session with your family and the fun little getaway! We love you!

{Lake Chelan: part two}

2009-09-30T17:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, on to the second part of this extended family session (to see part one, keep scrolling down.) Kristy and her husband, Wayne, recently became parents to one of the most adorable little tykes I've ever seen! Gabby was a doll... but not too sure of me. I tried my hardest to win her over, but I think she was still a little suspicious to the end!

I love the ones I got of Kristy and Gabby together. I almost had a twinge of sadness processing these because Gabby reminds me of my daughter, Jo, around the same age. Jo is turning five years old in a month and I can't believe how quickly the time has flown by! I am ready for a baby again (or at least I think I am when I shoot sessions with adorable babes.)

I did manage to capture some giggles... prompted by a little tickling from dad.

I posted this one before, but I had to share it again because I just love it!

I also got to sneak in some 'couple' photos -- which I love shooting under any circumstances and especially with a setting like this one!

Kristy and Wayne, thanks for a great session! I enjoyed meeting your sweet little family and capturing you in this season of your lives. :-)

{Lake Chelan: part one}

2009-09-29T15:02:00.000-07:00

This was a fun "destination" session that I shot back in August on the exotic shores of Lake Chelan, WA! ;-) I had never been to the lake before, but had heard nothing but beguiling tales of it's beauty -- and I was not disappointed! I would definitely love to go back over there when we have a little more time to explore the vineyards and wineries in the area. As it was, I left the kids with my mom, cajoled my hubby into coming with me for the day... and we had a sweet little road trip date there and back! Thanks, Carey!

Some of you don't know that our son Henry has CP. Well, for almost an entire year he had the incredibly good fortune of having the BEST physical therapist in the world work with him once a week through Idaho's birth to three program. He grew to love Carey dearly (as we all do!) and I think Wednesdays were the highlight of his week. We were all super sad when he aged out of the program after his third birthday in July and it meant saying goodbye to our beloved Carey. I really can't thank this special lady enough for the love and attention she gave my son. It's really true that as a parent one of the most meaningful things someone can do is love on and care for our kiddos!

Anyway, Carey asked me if I would be willing to travel to Chelan for a family session with her immediate and extended family while they were there on vacation. Of course I jumped at the chance to take a road trip and I was thrilled to be able to spend a little more time with Carey and meet her sweet family.

I'm going to divide this session into three parts because I have a ton of favorites and it'll be easier to view that way. This first part is of the whole crew together (Carey's family, her mom, and her sister's family.)

I love this one with the lake in the background... it's so gorgeous that it almost looks fake -- but I can assure you it was really that beautiful there! I was stoked to snag this shot because Carey's mother had one request when I got there -- she wanted a photo of the entire family with the lake in the background and some trees in the photo. I was thrilled when I saw this wall thingy!

What a fun group! They were up for anything! :-)

We walked down to the dock and had some fun on their postage-stamp-sized beach. Who needs a huge beach to get awesome beachy shots?

These two of Carey and her sister are great -- totally reminds me of me and MY sis!

And this last of one the sisters and mom is a heart-warmer. It was a true pleasure shooting this lovely family.

{Mmmm, fun!}

2009-09-27T20:39:00.000-07:00

We headed up to NE Washington for the weekend -- to visit family and friends in the area where we grew up and lived until last fall. It was a great little visit and I actually pulled out my camera to get some pics of my kiddos in action (something I need to do a lot more... I've been so busy with photo gigs this summer that my kids have been off the hook a little too much!) Anyway, here's a peek at all the fun we G.'s had! ;-)

We bombed down hillsides with our crazy cousins -- Calvin and Hobbes style!

And loved it!

We {HEART} our cousins!!!

We rode the ATV with Uncle Jud

and rode Candy without someone leading for the first time ever!!!

And mom took a few shots of little Lila Kate -- the newest addition to our dear
friends family.

Yay for weekends!

{almost full...}

2009-09-25T09:17:00.000-07:00

I wanted to let everyone know that I am just about booked for the rest of the year. A few people have mentioned that they were thinking about scheduling a fall session, but I really can't fit more than one... so give me a call or drop me an email if you want to squeeze in and I'll get ya booked!

And because a post isn't complete without a photo, here's one from the G. family summer archives. I found my crazy son like this when I went in to check on him at nap time. This was during his SHORT stint in a toddler bed (before we decided he was just fine in a crib for a few more months!) He must have gotten out of bed to round up some toys before passing out in the sack. That's a flag from one of his "Cars" toy sets. ;-)

{Nate and Talia: part two}

2009-09-24T12:00:00.000-07:00

Once again I had a very hard time narrowing down my favorites to share! There were so many sweet moments during the ceremony and reception and it was all just gorgeous.

By the time we made it back to the ceremony site from the portrait session, the sun was well past set -- but we still had a few minutes of that gorgeous pink sunset light before dusk took over.

For any photogs out there who like to know this geeky stuff, I shot the entire ceremony without using my speedlite because I really wanted to get as much as I could with natural light. I used my 50mm lens at 1.4 and was able to keep my ISO relatively low, I think it was at 640 most of the ceremony. By the end I was getting a little worried about the low light, but I was able to bring the images back a stop or so in the RAW converter. Gotta love Photoshop! :-)

The twins rode into the ceremony in style!! :-) I loved the little sign on the back of the wagon.

Nate waiting for Talia. I always love watching the groom's face as his lady walks toward him down the aisle.

My photog friend and neighbor, Stephanie, came along to second shoot the wedding with me. She has a great eye and captured some beautiful images. She recently posted a few of her favorites over on her blog as well. Here's Stephanie in action! ;-)

I really appreciated having her there to shoot the angles I wasn't getting, like this wide one:

Talia's mother officiated the wedding and did a lovely job.

I was so impressed with the way Nate and Talia drew the kids into the ceremony -- the kids had each written special vows expressing their love and commitment to the family and they were read aloud. You could tell how happy they all were to be a part of the ceremony -- everyone was fairly glowing with excitement! Nate and Talia also gave a significant gift to each of the kids... a beautiful touch.

the vows and the kiss:

and on to the reception!

There were so many beautiful moments during the bride and groom's first dance.

I love this one!

and then the whole bridal party got their groove on... fun times!

The kids all had cameras with which to capture the evening and I wish I could see some of the photos because they did a great job setting Nate and Talia up for what should be some sweet shots!

the cake:

I'm not sure who Talia was pointing out to come join the bouquet-toss hopefuls, but I don't think anyone said no to her! :-)

Some more fun dance shots -- this little girl was sooo precious. She stole the show for a little while after she got out on the dance floor copying Talia's moves! :-)

I think this one was almost done partying for the night!

Nate and Talia, thank you so much for the privilege of capturing your special day. It was a joy! I loved being a part of it and I wish you all the best!!

{Nate and Talia: part one}

2009-09-24T09:49:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to finally be caught up enough to post this amazing wedding! It was such a treat for me to be able to shoot it -- I love weddings in general and this one was beautiful and quite special. I'm going to post it in two parts because it was very hard narrowing down my favorite images to share!

The wedding took place at a gorgeous mountain-top home -- the bride's family's house. It was pouring rain the morning of the wedding, and everyone was a little nervous about the weather, but Talia rented a huge white tent at the last minute and then of course it cleared up and was simply BEAUTIFUL by evening! :-) As a photographer, I was thrilled about the tent because it added such a fun aspect to the photos... so I guess that's the silver lining! ;-)

The flowers were beautiful -- Talia did them herself. I loved the colors with the warmth of the setting sun.

I loved all of the "kid" elements around the place. Talia and Nate blended their families during this wedding -- his two children, her daughter and then the twins that they had together last year! What a great crew of gorgeous kids!

Nate and Talia were super laid-back and I loved chatting with Nate about photography while we were waiting for Talia to get back from hair and makeup. Nate is a photographer as well, and has a lovely DSLR that was sitting on the table when I showed up. As soon as I saw it there I knew we'd hit it off! :-)

Talia made dresses for the girls that were AMAZING. After seeing some of these photos on my computer while I was processing them, my four year old daughter really, really wants one -- you should go into business, Talia!!!

I had a great time with these three together! I loved the way they interacted...

Nate and Talia decided to do portraits before the wedding because the ceremony was scheduled to start right at sunset. It took a little longer for Talia to get home from town, so we didn't have as much time for the portraits as we'd originally thought. We drove up the road a bit to the neighbor's incredible house at the tip-top of the mountain with almost 360 degree views of the Spokane valley all around... the light was amazing, the setting surreal and Nate and Talia were soooo gorgeous. I could have stayed up there all night! ;-) As it was, we pushed it until the sun actually went down and then we realized we'd probably better head back so there would be enough light left for the ceremony!

I love these "first look" photos -- they were soooo cute together... totally and completely in love! :-)

Like I said -- gorgeous light, gorgeous setting and gorgeous people!!

I love the way Talia's personality shines through in this one! :-)

This next one is possibly one of my favorites from the whole evening... It's the epitome of an out-of-focus shot being more gorgeous, stunning and artistic than a spot-on one. Or, at least it is in my book. I love the feelings of serenity and beauty that I have when I look at it.

Okay, onto the next half! :-)

{Solveig}

2009-09-22T15:11:00.000-07:00

I had a fabulous session this morning -- at the crack of dawn. Yes, those that know me well know what an oxymoron that statement is... but it's true! I got up way early for a sunrise session and ended up loving it. I pulled this one out of my raw files as I was uploading them to my computer and had to share it. Solveig, you're stunning! I can't wait to get to the rest!

{A&H -- sneak peek}

2009-09-16T12:27:00.000-07:00

{Alaska}

2009-09-15T21:17:00.000-07:00

Wow. I just got home from four days in Alaska shooting an incredibly beautiful wedding. I loved AK as much as I suspected I would... and actually found out after I got home from my dad that my great-grandma grew up in Ketchikan, not far from where we stayed for the wedding, in a commercial fishing family. I guess she worked out on the fishing boats and then later on the ferry until she met my great-grandpa. The whole area is stunning -- in a wild, untamed, raw way that captivates me...

My very, very dear friend (and fellow photog) Jamie, came along on this adventure to second-shoot with me and we had a fabulous time together as always -- full of adventures and late-night talks and all sorts of learning experiences. :-) Jamie, you amazed me on this trip as you always do! I count myself truly fortunate to have the privilege of knowing you, and working with you, and learning from you and most of all, of being your friend. I love you with all my heart and I can't wait for our next great adventure!

{new product -- gallery wrapped canvas}

2009-09-10T17:49:00.000-07:00

Last week when I ordered the sample prints (that I blogged about a couple of days ago), I decided to spring for a gallery wrapped canvas as well because a lot of people have expressed interest in them, but want to see one in person. Plus, I have been fantasizing about one on my wall for years! Well, I am happy to say that both my wall and I am very happy! The quality and craftsmanship of the entire piece is fantastic and I definitely recommend a gallery wrap for unsurpassed eye-catching beauty!

{a little different perspective}

2009-09-09T19:31:00.000-07:00

Let me tell ya, shooting cabinets and interiors is totally different than shooting people! It was a little challenging at first, but I sort of got the hang of it by the end. I wanted to share a few favorites here because these were shot for my FABULOUSLY talented and artistic hubby who is a craftsman par none. We went up to Gozzer ranch last week to shoot a couple of his recent jobs so we can revamp the business website -- and we even had time afterward to slip in a little date. :-)

The first house we shot was SOOOO dreamy! I am in love! Gorgeous design and drop-dead location... It was a beautiful day, too -- with the warmth of summer still hanging on, yet the air was crisp and there was a delightful breeze coming up the mountainside. My idea of Heaven, for sure! :-) Of course I had to get some photos outside before we went in!

And now on to my hubby's craftsmanship: (the inside of the first house.)

And the second house: I LOVE the kitchen in this one! The use of the different woods and the furniture design of many of the cabinets... yum! I can't wait until we build again! :-)

The bathrooms were gorgeous too -- I love the custom furniture look to the bathroom vanities. And the wine cellar under the stairs was brilliant!

{new print options!}

2009-09-08T15:58:00.000-07:00

I've talked to some of you recently about the new print options that I'm now offering. I placed an order last week so I could have some samples on hand and I am THRILLED with the results. I did my best to photograph the sample prints so you can see the various textures and options, but it's hard taking photos of photos! ;-) I did my best and hopefully the descriptions will help fill in the blanks. If any past clients are in the area and want to stop by to see them in person, I'd be happy to pull them out. Just send me an email!

I'll be bringing samples with me to future sessions so clients can see them in person before placing an order.

So without further ado, the first up is the Somerset velvet paper. This is an option for wall prints, sizes 11x14 and up. I LOVE the feel and look of this paper -- it's a heavyweight cotton paper very much like watercolor paper. The colors are so beautiful on it and it definitely has a rich, velvety feel. It's a matte paper with no sheen.

The official description from my lab:
"Somerset Velvet Prints are acid free and 100% cotton Fine Art Watercolor type paper. This will provide long term durability and preserve your fine art or photos. The paper has a radiant white surface that provides vivid color reproduction and rich black images for prints with exceptional contrast."

Here are some pics of my sample 11x14 print:

Next is the canvas option -- also for wall prints sizes 11x14 and larger. This is 100% cotton duck material with a tight weave perfect for photographs. I was seriously blown away by the sample print that I ordered. (Maybe it's just the photo though! ;-) No, seriously, this is a wonderful option for a high-end print with the timeless texture of canvas. In my humble opinion, it makes a simple photograph look like a gallery-worthy piece of art. :-) Medium gloss finish.

The official description from my lab:
"Canvas Prints are printed on the highest quality 100% cotton duck fabric. This unique heavyweight canvas utilizes a tight weave that is ideal for photographic and fine art reproductions. This canvas combines incredible color reproduction, a medium gloss finish, and an acid free archival quality base which creates the highest image quality and an archival display life."

Here is my best attempt at showing the amazing texture on my 11x14 sample print:

Next is the pearl paper. This is available in all sizes, 4x6 and larger. This is a thicker, high-contrast, glossy paper with a sheen that is almost incandescent in certain colors and light. It's very rich-looking and brings out the colors in highly-saturated photos.

The official description from my lab:
"Fuji Crystal Archive Digital Pearl Prints are high quality glossy prints with a distinctive pearl-like appearance that slightly enhances the contrast in comparison to standard paper. Pearl Prints feature a thick base and high stiffness to enhance durability, making it perfect for portrait photography."

I tried to the best of my ability to capture the sheen and richness! :-) The first two are 8x10s and the last is a senior promo 5x7.

Here is a shot comparing the pearl paper (left) with the standard matte print (right.)

Next is the option to add custom embossing to the standard matte paper. This is available in all sizes, 4x6 and larger. This is a very affordable option and gives photos a distinct textured look. I particularly like this option on the smaller prints because it adds a little zing to the desk-sized photos. It also helps hide smears and smudges, making it ideal for Christmas card photos and Senior photos.

There are three textures available: linen, pebble and embassy (a combination of the first two.)

Here is an example of the linen texture:

And the pebble texture:

And the embassy:

Here are some examples of senior promo prints (in the Linen first and then the Pebble):

Last, the mounting options -- available for wall prints size 11x14 and larger. I'm really excited about offering the option to have your photos pre-mounted to hang directly on the wall without frames so they can be displayed freely and to the best viewing advantage.

First is the styrene mount. This is a flat plastic board about 1/8" thick. You may choose to have your photo sprayed with either a lustre or gloss UV protective coating to preserve the longevity of your mounted photo. (This option does not come ready to hang.)

From my lab:
"This is a 1/8'' thick white plastic sheet, coated on one side with Cold-Mount permanent pressure sensitive adhesive on the front. This is a very smooth board that is not hydroscopic and is not affected by changes in moisture. Changes in humidity will not cause warping."

Here is an example of a pearl print on the styrene mount:

And next is the stand-out mount option. This is a thicker mount with a 3/4" width and comes with holes ready to hang. You may choose to have your photo sprayed with either a lustre or gloss UV protective coating to preserve the longevity of your mounted photo. Black edging.

From my lab:
"Standout board is a lightweight backing that adds a thick black plastic edged back to your unframed images. This board comes equipped with holes on the back side, ready for hanging."

Here is an example of a linen-embossed standard print on the stand-out mount (sprayed with the lustre protective coating):

Okay, that was a lot of photos and descriptions, but I hope that it helped! You can find the prices for all of the options on my website under "details > prices and products." Please email me if you have any questions about any of the options, or for my opinion on which options I would chose for a particular image! :-)

{The A Family}

2009-09-07T15:48:00.000-07:00

This session was a blast! Diane contacted me about doing a family session while everyone was in town vacationing in July and I'm so glad she did. Their family is a blended family with everyone living in different states, so it was fun getting to take some photos of everyone together. Fun people! I laughed so hard during some of the "poses"... Here are a few of my favorites:

{The B Family}

2009-09-06T13:58:00.000-07:00

This session was the first time I'd been to the Finch Arboretum in Spokane, and I was amazed. I loved the setting and especially this really great, gnarly old tree! I want to go back and take a series of b&w images of the tree by itself for my walls. I LOVE the texture of the bark and the roots against the grass...

The B family contacted me way back at the beginning of summer to do a family session. We had to reschedule our first date because of some rain, and then Nicole called me a couple of days before our reschedule to tell me that their house had burned. What a terrible thing to happen -- I feel so bad for them, but have been totally impressed by their positive attitudes towards the whole situation.

Needless to say, I was delighted when we were finally able to get together for their family photos! They have a very special little family. It took me a while to win their kids over, but eventually we got some good photos.

Brian and Nicole, thanks for the great time and thank you for the amazing example you are of walking graciously through a very difficult season. May we all be more like you two! I wish you all the best this next year... I'm looking forward to more photo sessions in the future! :-)

{sneak peek -- P family}

2009-09-04T10:57:00.000-07:00

This is for you, Kristy! :-)

{Sneak Peek -- P, M, C families}

2009-09-02T15:12:00.000-07:00

A favorite from a VERY fun session last Wednesday on Lake Chelan. Thanks, Carey!

{the C. fam}

2009-09-01T00:27:00.000-07:00

I'm catching up! After this one, I'll only be five posts behind. :-)

This session was shot up in WA in the mountains where I grew up and still consider home (probably will always be "home" to me -- no matter where we go in this world.) I grew up in a tight-knit community where everyone was more like family than anything else -- and the Currigans were no exception. Dr. Currigan has always been available to answer emergency questions by phone -- everything from kids falling down the stairs to a difficult miscarriage to a pea down the wrong tube (no, seriously, I freaked and Peter called the doc! :-) I can't even express how grateful I am to their family for that security.

I taught most of their kids in Elementary school years ago, and I am always amazed every time I see them at how grown-up they are now! In fact, I kept calling the youngest son by his older brother's name because in my mind Brian is still Timothy's age.

We had really amazing weather during this session -- it was all wild and stormy and very, very cool for photos. My little assistant, Henry, came along and he actually helped out a bit by standing behind me making all kinds of goofy faces... that is until he got too tired and then he just wanted to be on my lap, so I have many photos with the backside of a little brown head in the corner (*don't worry, I don't normally bring him along! :-)

Currigans: thank you for such a great session... you're all awesome! I'm so sorry that Sean and Yvette weren't able to be in these, but hopefully we'll get some good ones with the entire family after the baby comes.

{T&N -- sneak peek}

2009-08-30T23:11:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of shooting a GORGEOUS wedding yesterday and I wanted to post a quick sneak peek for Talia and Nate.

{D & D}

2009-08-30T22:53:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm still about six sessions behind in blog-posting -- but I guess I'll eventually catch up!

This is the second part of the dual-session I posted earlier. Debbie contacted me about doing a session with her and her husband while they were up visiting family in July. I could tell right away through our emails back and forth that I was going to love them, and I did. They are totally cool, happy people and were up for anything. Doug plays several instruments with a band in CA, so I shoot a few with his guitar and bass and that was fun. We caught the light as the sun went down and I was thrilled with all the glow and sun-flare.

Doug and Debbie: it was so great getting the chance to meet you and have you in front of my lens for a little while! I'm so glad it worked out to squeeze it into your trip! I wish you guys all the best. :-)

{B. family}

2009-08-28T18:37:00.000-07:00

"Sisters, sisters... "

This was a FUN-FILLED session!! It was actually the first half of two sessions crammed into one evening -- the second part of which I'll post next. One of the sisters had arranged to do a couple's session with her hubby while they were up visiting from CA in July and it evolved into a sisters/mom session as well. They were all gigglers -- and they made me giggle the whole time, too. I loved it! :-)

Linda, Kellie, Hannah, Debbie and Julie: thanks for such a great time and all the laughs!! You're all beautiful, warm, lovely women, and I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to chat and laugh with all of you!

{another recent fav image}

2009-08-26T01:02:00.000-07:00

Can you tell I'm in love with this fence?? ;-)

Every now and then an image is captured

2009-08-20T00:21:00.000-07:00

that seriously takes my breath away...

...like this one from my session tonight.

*Sigh* I love my job.

{J. -- maternity session}

2009-08-07T13:30:00.000-07:00

I'm posting a bit out of order here, but I wanted to share some of my favorites from this recent session now because I haven't posted any maternity shots in a while... Plus, the light was amazing, the people were wonderful and there was a baby in the mix getting ready to make her grand, much-anticipated entrance into this world. I double-heart LOVE maternity sessions!

Jaime contacted me a month or so ago about doing a newborn session when her baby girl is born in October. I penciled her in and then I talked her into doing a maternity session as well! Be warned, people! I may talk you into doing more photos than you were planning on!! ;-)

We met at the Gonzaga University campus -- a new one for me -- and I LOVED the location. We didn't venture onto the bridge until the very end and I wish we had gotten up there sooner. The light was soooo gorgeous reflecting off the river and I was in total heaven. Mmmmm hmmm... I will DEFINITELY be going back! Any engaged couples out there? I totally see an engagement session on the bridge! Any old married couples want to reenact their engagement??? ;-) I'll take anything!

Thanks for such a great session, John and Jaime (and Auntie Jenny!) It was a treat meeting you and getting to hear about your sweet little bundle on her way. I can't wait to meet her in person and take some newborn photos!

{goofin' off}

2009-08-04T12:06:00.001-07:00

what I'm really doing during sessions! ;-)

photo credit: Peter G.

Oh, and it's not photo-shopped (my mom totally thought it was!) See those rippling biceps? All me, baby. ;-)

{D. family}

2009-08-01T21:33:00.000-07:00

Nicole is a local photographer who emailed me a few months ago about doing a family session for her since she rarely spends time on the other side of the lens (boy do I know what she means!) I have to admit that I was pretty darn nervous going into the session because after all, she knows what I'm doing! ;-) But as it turned out, I had absolutely no reason to be nervous. They were one of the most laid-back, delightful families I've had the privilege to shoot.

The girls giggled almost the whole time. It was wonderful! -- and highly contagious. Even days later as I processed their session on my computer late at night, I would erupt into spontaneous fits of giggles just be LOOKING at their bubbly faces!

We ended up with some fun ones of the whole family, too -- as well as some of Nicole and her hubby by themselves. They told me that they hadn't had any professional couple photos taken since their wedding many years ago, so it was fun catching the romance. :-)

Mike, Nicole, Kayla and Matea -- thanks for a great, giggly session! I'm glad to have met you and hope to meet up again sometime in the future.

{E. girls}

2009-07-31T13:08:00.000-07:00

Wow -- I've been busy lately! But I can't let too much time go by without posting some of my favs from the last few sessions. Blog-post-flurries are in the forecast for the next few days! :-)

This was a super-fun session that I shot a couple of weeks ago with two super-fun little girls. Their family actually lives in Hawaii, but they all come to stay a month each year at Grandma's house in Cda where mom grew up. It was a lot of fun asking the girls questions about Hawaii and hearing their perspective on all of the differences between here and there (um, yeah... there are a few! :-)

I loved chatting with their mom, too -- we were constantly laughing about over the girl's antics and 'tudes. Kids... you have to love 'em!

Thanks for a fun time, Kelly, Alyson, and Amy! I hope your trip home went smoothly and that you're settling back in to your tropical paradise. :-)

{R. and B. family -- sneak peek}

2009-07-27T15:40:00.000-07:00

{M. -- senior}

2009-07-21T13:29:00.000-07:00

I've known Micaela since she was a wee thing... I taught her in elementary school and can hardly believe that she's graduating. Does that make me old?

Well regardless of how she dates me, I really enjoy spending time with her! Micaela loves photography, too, and recently bought her first DSLR. I had a great time talking "shop" with her both before and during this session. We tromped all over the nearby countryside taking in woods, beach, farm, country, urban and yes, even a car wash.

Thanks for the great session, Micaela! You've grown into a beautiful young woman and I'm excited to watch your future unfold. You deserve all the best. Love ya!

One of the things I love about shooting seniors is discovering the things that are important to them in this season of their lives. Micaela sings on her church's worship team and in a band, so she brought along a microphone symbolically. If it wouldn't have been blazing hot out in the direct noon sun, I would have asked for a private concert on the spot! (Yeah, what WAS I doing shooting in direct sun at noon? And no assistant to hold the reflector? You should have SEEN my acrobatics as I attempted to hold the reflector with my foot AND get the shot! :-) Fun times...

{D. fam -- sneak peek}

2009-07-21T11:28:00.000-07:00

I LOVED this one! Actually the whole session was super fun. :-) More later...

{G & L -- wedding}

2009-07-20T15:36:00.000-07:00

I had a fantastic time shooting this laid-back wedding on the fourth of July. George and Linda are such warm, fun, generous people -- we laughed and chatted like old friends right away. They had a beautiful outdoor wedding with close friends and Linda's two children in attendance at a friend's gorgeous mountain property in Silverton, Idaho. The whole day was just perfect.

George and Linda, thanks for such a great time! I wish you the VERY best in the years to come.

Congrats!

{M. -- sneak peek}

2009-07-18T16:08:00.000-07:00

I'm way behind in posting my favorites from recent sessions -- I've been super-busy lately... but I wanted to post a quick sneak peek from a senior session last week. Love you, Micaela!

{sneak peek -- the E. girls}

2009-07-13T11:10:00.000-07:00

This is for you, Amy. They aren't looking at the camera, but I loved this moment between them! I can't wait to share the rest with you... soon!

{D & D -- part two}

2009-07-08T18:32:00.000-07:00

Drew and Danielle opted for a first look -- meaning that they met a couple of hours before the ceremony for their portraits. Naturally, I was thrilled that they decided to do this because it meant we were able to get some great portraits without the hurry right after the wedding. They are both such wonderful, warm, happy-go-lucky people and there was a lot of laughter and many sweet moments between them. Danielle is absolutely drop-dead gorgeous. Like, stunning. Wow. ;-) And, Drew -- you're a stud muffin for sure.

Thanks, guys, for such a beautiful laughter-and-tear-filled day. It was a joy being a part of it!

{D & D wedding -- part one}

2009-07-08T14:35:00.000-07:00

Wow -- I ended up with so many great photos from Drew and Danielle's wedding that I am going to share my favorites in two posts... one for the ceremony photos and one for the pre-wedding portraits.

Drew is my hubby's brother, and we are so happy for him! He found such a great gal to join our family. We really love Danielle to pieces -- she is totally down-to-earth, funny, sweet, beautiful -- AND she loves kids (major points there, of course!! ;-) It was such a joy getting to celebrate their love and commitment to each other at their ceremony two weeks ago.

The gals got ready at Danielle's home -- where we also shot portraits before the ceremony. Everyone was so laid-back and relaxed...

The ceremony took place at Drew and Danielle's home church/gym in Portland. I was a little worried about the lighting because it was pretty dark during the ceremony -- but I bumped up the ISO and figured I'd just have to deal with the subsequent noise. All the following ceremony pics were shot in the dimly-lit gym with no flash, so forgive the grain.

Jamie was second-shooting the wide angles during the ceremony, so you'll have to check out her blog after she gets them posted. :-) Since this was family, I made her process all of the ones she took. (Yeah, I know! I'm terrible! No one is ever going to want to second-shoot for me! :-)

They had a time of worship and prayer at the beginning of the ceremony which I thought was beautiful...

Danielle's pastor/dad did a great job with the ceremony. It was funny, inspiring, AND challenging. I kept wanting to elbow Peter (in a good way!) while he was sharing... but I kept on track.

Unity Candle and Communion:

And the kiss! :-)

I LOVE this look on Drew's face as they are leaving the altar as a married couple. The pastor had just announced that Drew found out the day before that he had passed his board exams and was officially a chiropractor. You can tell he is just on TOP of the world! Go, Doctor Drew!!

A hug for the twin:

First Dance:

Seriously, one of my favorite shots of the day. What's a wedding without a little line-dancing?? ;-)

And, of course I had to post one of my sharp little man in his fine, fine wedding suit. What a character. He danced with Aspen almost every dance and decked their mutual cousin, Hunter when he tried to cut in. I think Peter dealt with that one...

Tossing the Bouquet (Danielle's best friend and Maid of Honor caught it...)

After the ceremony we walked over to the edge of the football field for some family and wedding party photos. I love this one of Drew and Danielle sneaking in a little twirl during their stroll over.

Drew's fam:

Danielle's fam:

D & D with all of their nieces and nephews:

The bridesmaids: (Jamie shot the groomsmen)

Danielle with her sisters and mom:

The cutest flower girl and ring-bearer EVER!!!

And they were off!

We love you guys and wish you the VERY BEST in your future married life together!!!!

{sneak peek: G & L}

2009-07-07T18:36:00.000-07:00

{Christmas in July}

2009-07-07T17:26:00.001-07:00

Totally (and I do mean TOTALLY) unexpectedly, I have two new lenses in my now much-too-small camera bag.

And I am thrilled.

Okay, "thrilled" might be too mild a term in a situation such as this... "over-the-moon-ecstatic" might be more appropriate!

Wahooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Proudly introducing: Hermann and Lucy. (My best friend thought it would be a good idea to name them. :-)

Yes, you read that right:

{the Z fam}

2009-07-06T18:53:00.000-07:00

I cannot even tell you how much I DOUBLE-HEART, with a cherry on top, loooooove this family. Jamie and I became friends via the internet a little over two years ago -- we were both in the process of adopting our sons from Liberia, and we hit it off right away after finding each other's family blogs online. We shared an interest in photography that became a passion and later a business for both of us, and we've been encouraging, prodding and challenging each other ever since -- in photography, business, mothering, life... and a million other things. Jamie keeps me on my toes and constantly inspires me to be a better person -- friends like that are worth their weight in gold! Our kids are close to the same ages and love getting to see each other a couple of times a year.

We ended up traveling to Africa at the end of 2007 to bring Henry home as Jamie and Corey were there bringing Micah home. We stayed at the same place and left on the same plane -- and to say that it was a bonding experience is a huge understatement! I'll never forget sitting on the airplane about to take off at the end of our whirlwind trip and looking across the aisle at Jamie, Corey, and Micah on the other side of the plane... I knew at that moment that we would be friends for a very long time. I wish we lived closer, but Oregon isn't too far away thankfully!

We drove down to Portland last weekend for Peter's brother's wedding, and Jamie came up from Eugene to second-shoot with me -- which was a huge blessing! Thanks, Jamie! Since we were so close, we drove down to stay the rest of the weekend with the Z family... and of course, traded family photo sessions.

LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!!!!!!!!!! Can't wait for the next trip!! AK, baby! ;-)

{the M. boys}

2009-07-01T21:54:00.000-07:00

This session is a few weeks old now, but I wanted to blog a few of my favorites before any more time passed. This session was booked for surprise Father's Day photos.
This little guy made me work HARD! Smiles from him were NOT given out easily -- and even getting him to look in the general direction of my lens was tough! We took a little break to play with some toy cars and draw with chalk... and that helped. Then we drove up the road a little way and he eventually came around (especially after his fishing pole and baseball mitt materialized from the car!) His older brother was a sweetheart -- and so patient with him. I really enjoyed getting to spend a little time with them both -- and their trusty side-kick canine who made it into a few shots. :-)

This next one was NOT staged! Hee hee... gotta love it! My favorite photos are always the natural ones. :-)

{sneak peek -- D & D wedding}

2009-06-30T16:56:00.000-07:00

{sneak peek -- the Z fam}

2009-06-30T16:34:00.000-07:00

{C. -- just because}

2009-06-23T22:32:00.000-07:00

I got to do a quick "just because" session the other night with our dear friend's daughter, Chloe. Ross and Tessa drove down to stay with us over the weekend so Ross could help Peter out at Gozzer on an install... and Tessa and I got to play with the kids and shop. :-)

The last night they were with us, the sun was just too glowy and their little blondie was just too precious not to run inside and grab my camera...

{More R&S -- and fam}

2009-06-16T09:15:00.000-07:00

Here are few more of my favorite shots from the vow renewal/dedication ceremony that I shot for my best friend last weekend. It was a beautiful, special evening celebrating the love they have for each other and their children. I was in photographer candyland too -- because there were so many beautiful people to shoot and such glorious light and breathtaking backdrops. Ah, heaven on earth. :-)

Sarah's sister, Lauren, and dear family friend, Ashley, were out visiting from the east coast, so I got some fun photos of them and of course some of Sarah and Lauren together. They look so much alike it's crazy! :-) I love the first two of Larry and Patty, Sarah's parents. What a beautiful, special couple they are.

Thanks, Ryan and Sarah for your love and dedication to your family and the spirit of romanticness (is that a word?) that you cultivate -- you are an inspiration! Thanks to the rest of the family as well... I love you all dearly! Lauren and Ashley, it was GREAT getting to see you guys again -- it had been a while! You are both amazing gals and I loved getting a chance to chat a bit and hear all the awesome things you are both up to. Love you!

{mini-sessions}

2009-06-13T16:42:00.000-07:00

I've had several people ask me about this option, so I've decided to start offering a limited number of "mini-sessions" each month for people who may want a quicker, cheaper alternative to the standard session. For $45, a mini-session includes one hour of shooting at one location with 15-20 post-processed images to choose from. There will be a minimum $25 print order (at regular print prices)or I will release the processed images on a disc with a full copyright release for $75. June and July are booked, so email me to get on the schedule for August!

Cheers!

{R & S -- trash the dress session}

2009-06-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

(A "trash the dress" session for those of you scratching your heads is a non-wedding wedding session... dress and all, but no ceremony. It's particularly nice when you've had a winter wedding with crummy indoor photos... :-) But, actually, no dress was trashed in the shooting of these pictures. If you knew Sarah you would know that this particular wedding dress is much-treasured and much-protected. But, when she asked me to take some outdoor photos of she and Ryan in wedding garb since they were married in February years ago and didn't get any, I was thrilled. How fun to get to play around with all the love and beauty of a wedding session without the pressure. Oh yeah. I'll do a trash the dress session ANY time!

There were so many to choose from, it was hard to pick a handful of my favorites to share! Sarah is my best friend and has been since we were eleven -- I see her so often and yet forget how stunning she is. It's easy to do that when you are so comfortable with another person. It was fun getting to capture she and Ryan in this season of their lives in such a beautiful, romantic way. They are true romantics at heart... very Anne and Gilbert-ish. :-) And the evening was perfect, too. Thanks, guys for thinking to do this... I hope these wedding photos will be passed on to the generations. :-) Love you TONS!

{the extraordinary Z.}

2009-06-08T19:01:00.000-07:00

I recently had the opportunity to shoot photos for my best friend's vow renewal/child dedication ceremony. We were outside on their gorgeous mountain-view property at sundown and I ended up with some great photos of their immediate and extended family... as well as some fun "couple" shots -- but before I share any of those, I wanted to devote an entire post to their amazing daughter Zoe. Zoe was born four months after Joanna and the two of them have grown up together as special buddies. They generally get along marvelously -- due in part to their opposite temperaments, I think. They lived across the field from each other until we moved last fall... and now they write letters and talk to each other on the phone like they're little teenagers. :-)

Zoe is a completely unique little cookie -- in so many ways! She has fiery red hair and the most striking eyes I've ever seen -- one is bright blue and the other is green. She is incredibly out-going and bubbly... full of life and vigor. I've never really met anyone like her... well, until I met Henry anyway. She and Henry could have been identical twins if personality and temperament were the requirements!

As you can tell by some of these photos, she was totally just humoring me as I tried all my usual antics to get some good shots. :-) I think I've spent too much time with her -- I've lost the charming novelty that usually elicits a smile from children other than my own!

{pucker up!}

2009-06-04T13:27:00.000-07:00

I LOVE it when I catch loving moments between my kids. Mmmm hmmm... makes this momma's heart super-duper happy.

{giving back: "feed the forgotten -- Uganda"}

2009-06-01T15:02:00.000-07:00

I mentioned on my website that I'm going to start featuring an organization or global campaign each month that I will be giving a percentage from all of my sessions that month -- and I'm excited to start this for June. My friend, Brandi recently launched an awesome campaign raising money to feed starving children and families in Uganda. She was recently there and has shared a lot of photos and stories from her trip on her blog. Many of you know my passion for helping orphans worldwide -- particularly in Africa. I love Brandi's heart and her zeal for making a difference. It's so easy to excuse ourselves from doing what we can, or giving what we can because we don't think that it will really make a difference. Well... it will!

I know things are tough right now for so many people financially across America (yeah, us too! :-) but we truly have SO MUCH. We feed our kids three meals a day without even thinking about it. We leave the table full and usually have something different for dinner each night. We can decide to not eat eggs for breakfast if we don't like them... and scoop an extra bowl of ice-cream to enjoy while watching a movie on our comfortable couches at night. Even our pets go to bed at night with their tummies full! We really have so much...

It's easy to get busy with our lives and see only our own needs -- or even just get so comfortable and complacent that we don't bother letting our hearts ache for those that are hurting and alone... down the street or across the ocean. But we can choose to remember. We can choose to open our eyes and our hearts and let the awareness move us toward giving more freely -- of our time, our finances, our passion, our prayers, our lives. This hunger campaign is a great opportunity to do so and I'm excited about giving back from my photog business this month to make a difference in these children's lives. Click on the link to learn more or to make a donation.

Living Freely: FEED THE FORGOTTEN

{T. maternity}

2009-05-27T23:33:00.000-07:00

Wow. I knew a maternity session with my friend Tessa would deliver some gorgeous photo-love, but it was all that and more! I get a warm, fuzzy, happy feeling inside when I look at these photos. The light was gorgeous, the setting was breath-taking and Tessa was radiant. I love maternity sessions -- there is so much hope and promise and inherent beauty. This short session was fairly spontaneous, but I wound up with so many treasures... it was truly difficult narrowing it down for this post!

Thanks, Tessa. I love that you love photos as much as I do! :) You're beautiful!

{baby L}

2009-05-22T21:55:00.000-07:00

This was such a delightful session! I love this little guy so much already -- and of course, I love his family to pieces. (I posted some photos a little while ago from the maternity session that I shot with his momma, Sadie.) Landon was born three weeks early, so the day that I shot these photos was right around his due date. He was so cooperative and slept through the whole thing -- only pooping on my blanket once! :-) He is still soooo tiny. It's always hard for me to believe that my kids were ever close to that teeny...

David and Sadie, I loved getting to spend some time with you both and your sweet baby. Love you guys. :-)

(And, Jamie -- thanks for the cocoon... I loved it! Great job, Ashley!)