Because you just never know...

There are a lot of things I love about being a photographer. Being a sentimental person, I love the idea of having little snapshots of the things that make up our everyday lives. Irreplaceable reminders of how things were at that moment in time.

As cliche as it sounds, kids DO grow up way too fast and although we can't freeze time, we can use photographs as a way to keep those moments fresh in our minds. At times I am obsessed with taking pictures of every little event in my children's lives, but it wasn't until a terrible tragedy happened that it really struck me as to the importance of capturing these moments for others.

I photographed Cassidy when she came to my studio on her first birthday back in 2009. She was so full of life and had the most beautiful blue eyes and a smile that could just light up a room. We had so much fun with her cake smash session and as you can see, she really loved her cake.

Months passed and life marched along, then one day I got the news. Just six months after her session, at only 18 months old, precious little Cassidy passed away in her sleep. There was no explanation...she was just gone. I was just heartbroken for this new little family that lost their little girl.

So as I sit here reflecting on all those special moments I get to share with my littlest clients, I am reminded of how valuable my job as a photographer really is. Nothing makes me happier than photographing little babies and children in a way that will be remembered long after that moment has passed. It's a responsibility I take very seriously and am so honored for all the opportunities I've had to capture these moments for my clients...because you just never know.

Spring Cherry Blossoms

Last year I found this cute Asian top at a thrift store, took it home with a specific photoshoot in mind with my daughter. I spent quite a bit of time during spring break that year looking for a paper umbrella, but by the time they were available in stores, all the cherry blossoms were gone. So I tucked all my props away for another day.

Fast forward to this spring and I wasn't sure if I would be able to pull it off. I re-located the props, the trees had blossoms, but it kept raining...and raining...and raining. FINALLY, yesterday, the sky was clear, we didn't have soccer practice and so I decided it was time to let my daughter in on my plan. She isn't always a willing model, due I'm sure to the large number of takes and retakes I request from her, but she loved the umbrella, so I knew there was a good chance she'd be up for my scheme!

Midway through the shoot, she had had enough, but of course, I was just getting started...so I did what any mom would do—I bribed her...with money. She was a good negotiator. I started off at $1 and she got me up to $5!!! But she deserved it...a bargain if you ask me! Here are some of my favorite shots from our beautiful spring day...enjoy!







As we were shooting, Natalie's uncle stopped by and jumped into the shot. I just love how this image turned out. You can really see how much Natalie loves her uncle...probably the biggest smile of the day!

Brandon and Christian

You're looking at the busiest boys in the west...yep, my nephews are non-stop action, so getting them to sit long enough to be photographed requires serious speed!!!

Cassidy's Cake Smash session

Yesterday Cassidy came to see me for her some cake smash photos. It was so funny to watch her try to wipe the orange frosting off her hands...on to her arm and belly and just about everywhere else!