{engagement} Erin & Casey

I enjoyed the Engagement Session for Casey & Erin so much! I have known Erin since we were kids, and Casey is my cousin, as well as one of my favorite people in this world. I am SOOO excited for their soon marriage. If I could describe them in words it would be super sweet and super funny. And as hilarious as Casey & Erin are, there is one thing that is immediately more noticeable about them. Its how proud they are of each other. I know that we are not supposed to be prideful people, and I am not suggesting that we are, but these two have such a humbleness in their character that they genuinely encourage and are proud of one another. I love you both! :o)

Look at that kiss!

I felt a little like paparazzi shooting this one behind the bushes.

Heh, heh...sorry about that, Casey! I'm a goof-ball, too!

{preview} Engagement

Hey guys! Here's a quick preview of the amazing Engagement Session I had the other day with Casey & Erin. More soon! :o)

{Engagement} Jessie & Marc

I loved shooting this session. The weather was perfect, like the first day of fall, and I had amazing subjects. I've known Jessie for years. We went to school together, danced together, and her dad was one of my teachers. I can't wait for the wedding! Enjoy!

What makes for a great shoot?

Hey Guys,

I want to share some tips with you on what can help make your photo shoot go from good to great.

Bring accessories. It doesn't matter which type of portrait you are taking, accessories are always great to bring along. Accessories help add a personal dimension that you may not get without them. This can be any number of things. For instance, if you are having a session of your daughter, you might want to consider bringing a special toy that she loves, or that beautiful bright hair bow you have been eyeing. You don't have to wear the items, either. A skateboard if you love to skate. Your favorite chair, a funky umbrella, a popcorn machine. Seriously, anything goes. Here's some examples of how accessories can really bring some character to your shoot.

Choose outfits that are normal for what you wear. If your family doesn't normally all dress up in matching outfits, don't do it in a photo. Sure, you'll want to coordinate, but leave enough room for each person to have individuality. Prints can be fine, just try for even prints, non-distracting prints. Moms, I know that you want the perfect jon jon or bubble (i have 2 boys), and bring it, we'll do some shots in it. But, PLEASE bring their little wranglers & belt buckle (or whatever), too! If your child marches to their own beat and they are so inclined, let them pick out their own outfit! Sometimes the fairy costume with the strawberry rainboots makes for the best pictures!

Have FUN! I am here to document a tiny section in Your life. Sure, I'll help coach you on a bit of what to do, but so often, some of the most honest and memorable shots are when I'm catching you being you. Dance around with your fiance' if that's what you do. We'll crank up the iTunes. Let your kiddo run around, we're not worried about grass stains.

Need some inspiration? Here's some sites that I like to surf:

Children's Items:

LaFolie

Tales of Toot & Bubby

Apple & Ivy

knits by knittinmama

AppleSauce Designs

Women's & Bridal:

JadeRose Designs

Rose Red Accessories

Boudoir:

Hopeless

{Preview} Engagement

A quick preview of Jessie & Marc! More soon! Enjoy!

Engagements: Haley and Brent

I went to school with Haley and Brent growing up. They are such a funny couple. Brent was constantly making Haley crack up! He is so attentive to her and always was making her smile. Thanks guys! I had a great time!

Kristen & Chris

I really had a great time shooting Kristen and Chris.  They are a couple that seem to know just what they want in pictures and their interaction is really naturally sweet.  

Tiffiany & Bryan

I had so much fun with my best friend Tiffiany & her fiance' Bryan.  I could not be happier for them both.  Here's a sample of their shoot last week.