Crazy Love

Heading to Lake Las Vegas to photograph a big family was a little intimidating. I brought along my friend Tia to assist me because I had no idea what to expect! But everything I expected went out the window as I watched an army of 11 people in white shirts & jeans walk across the bridge towards me. My goal for the day was to get 1 or 2 good shots of everyone. (Realistically there is no way to get everyone looking good at the same time, right?) But this family proved me wrong. They totally let me in, showed me their personality, and through that their love for each other took over every picture. I had more fun taking their pictures then I have had at a shoot in a long time. They are CRAZY but they are crazy for each other, and that is what we should all strive for. Thank you guys for letting me be part of your amazing family for an hour. You have something to be VERY proud of!

Smile of the Year

I love doing senior shoots for guys because they know what they want, they let me do my job, and when I think we have enough great shots they trust me. This was so true for Jesse. BUT senior guy shoots can also be the most challenging because its hard to get them to open up and show their real smile and their personality...this was so NOT true for Jesse. I couldn't get the smile OFF of his face. But I'm not complaining! And truth be told he had my laughing the whole time too. He is such a great kid, with a great family, and a great head on his shoulders. I know he'll make his momma proud!

You Know What You Know

Two reasons I love my job: meeting new people and reuniting with old friends. Both of these senior sessions at Lake Las Vegas gave me that chance! Here are a few of my favorites. Congrats OJ & Jaclyn! Both of you are off to an amazing start, surrounded by people who love you, and passionate about life. "You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. You are the guy who'll decide where to go." -Dr. Seuss

Better than a Fairytale

These 2 deserve the best and, it is obvious from the smile on their face, they have found it. My simple prayer for this photo shoot was to bless them and to capture this moment of new love, excitement and anticipation. Through out the shoot I got to experience all of these feelings. I didn't have to tell them to smile, to kiss, or to get closer (actually, I couldn't get them apart and had to tell them to look at me!). As I was leaving I told them, "Congrats, you 2 of all people deserve a fairytale." Her response, as she smiled and grabbed her handsome Army man..."OHH this is so much better than a fairytale!"

Fab Fam

Wow...what a fun shoot...I am learning more & more every day.

1-Real love makes pictures so much more beautiful
2-When there are kids, just bring candy
3-Don't try to take pictures with ducks in the background (they are way more interesting than my face)
4-Watch out for sneaky strollers
5-Just keep shooting, the next one may be the perfect shot
6-The perfect way to finish a photo shoot is with a round of sushi
Lesson learned.