Here!

Summer has been kicking my butt! I have had sessions that I have had finished and in galleries but haven't put up on the blog. I have sessions I am working on finishing and will get those up here too! My kids have been back in school for a few weeks but we are still trying to soak up as much of the warm summer days before they are gone! I promise...pics are coming!!!

That's what it's all about l Utah Family Photographer

Yesterday a very good friend of mine passed away. No warnings, no clues, no prolonged sickness. She left behind her sweet husband and four cute kids.  As I was looking through some of her photos all I could think is that this is all they have left to remember their mother by. She is gone, but she is there...in photos with them. I am comfortable behind the camera. I like it there. I cringe whenever I have to be in front of the camera at all. Losing someone close to you makes you take some time and think about what you would want to make sure you have said or done. It can surprise anyone just like it did my sweet friend. I am not saying I am dying anytime soon (hopefully...) but I would want my kids to have pictures of me with them. I need to let go of what I am insecure about or what I want to change before I schedule pictures. This is in no way saying "call me and have me take your pictures" but it does make me all the more grateful to the wonderful people who have entrusted me to preserve their moments. I am extremely honored because I see yet again just how important photos of loved ones can be.

On another note, this fun family was all together for some summer vacation fun and wanted to get pictures while they were all together.  Moms always love getting a new family portrait up on the wall!

 See the cute little girl. Yep, the one with the pink flower. She DID NOT want to smile for me. AT. ALL. So I told her if I acted like her favorite animal she would have to smile. She picked a horse. I embarrased the heck out of myself "neighing" and shaking my head and doing anything to get her to smile. The rest of the family laughed...I couldn't crack her!

 But notice that when she thought I couldn't catch her smile...I did :)

Beautiful Bride l Utah Bridal Photographer

This is my gorgeous (and no I am not saying that just because we are family) cousin Lauren. I used to babysit Lauren. I used to dress Lauren up. Now look at her! She is all grown up and now she is getting married. I love this girl. She is sweet, fun loving and so thoughtful...Brent is one lucky guy. I think he knows that ;)

I was flattered when she asked me to take her bridal pictures. I love weddings and love and dresses and flowers and shoes....I will stop now! We hoped for good weather and we got it. She was a trooper to go around in the heat with her beautiful dress. I loved getting to spend time with her and to be one of the first to see her in her gorgeous dress.

Congrats Lauren...I can't wait for the big day!

Little Man l Utah Newborn Photographer

I hope you all had a wonderful 4th of July! I know I did...we partied for a whole week straight. Now my house looks like it has been neglected but I wanted to get another session up and posted before I attack the piles of swimsuits, towels and dishes I have waiting for me! 

Here are some more from the little guy I had in the last post. When we had originally scheduled this shoot we were aiming to get some of him in his blessing outfit. His Mom fed him and he crashed. Despite the fact that he was not days old, this sweet boy let us get a few more fun shots in! He was as good as gold. I love my job. Have I mentioned that before?! Love. Every. Bit. I have the best clients. Yes I do.

There is a sweet tradition in this family where the Dad brings a new stuffed animal for the baby. They always get a photograph with them and their first gift. Each of his brothers and his sister have theirs framed on the wall. Now he can join the club!

Squishy baby love

There is just one for now but there is more to come of this adorable little guy. Don't you just want to squish his cheeks?!