We went camping over the 4th of July and it was so great and so dirty. I have never seen my kids get so dirty! They were actually pouring buckets of dirt on their own heads. Toddler heaven! I only pulled out my camera once, but I took some cute videos on my phone and I’m working on making them into a home video. I’m definitely not a pro, but it has been so fun to make something meaningful out of all the random videos on my phone. I will share when it’s finished!
photo and design by mad
Petersen Family + Cleveland, UT
I absolutely love when I get to photograph people from my home town! Cleveland is tiny, and off the beaten path and it will always have my heart. Brooke also grew up in Cleveland, moved away for a bit, and now she and her gorgeous family moved back and built a beautiful home together. I hope to move my own family back there someday. Brooke is so easy to work with and the whole family made this session fun and easy! Their oldest will be leaving on an LDS mission to Arkansas soon and he is pretty excited (his mom isn’t talking about it). I loved documenting their family dynamic how it is right now. It will be so fun for them to look back on when things have changed and the little ones have grown. Thanks Petersen family and good luck on your mission Brans!
I visit Emery County often, so if you are interested in booking a session don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions you have!
Fromm Family + Saltair
My husband went to high school with Casey, but this was the first time I met him and his wife Kendra. They immediately felt like old friends and I had a blast hanging out with them and meeting their little guy, Stone. He was THE sweetest! I don’t think I have ever photographed a more cooperative one-year-old. He was a dream and was giving me hugs by the end of the session. I loved watching them interact with each other. You can just see how much they treasure Stone. And I mean, who wouldn’t? Just look at the handsome little guy!
Sophia Faye+ in-home newborn session
Sophia Faye. Sophie. The cutest name to go with the cutest little babe. I’m so grateful to this family for inviting me into their home at this time in their lives. Bringing home your first baby is magic. Exhausting, but magic nonetheless. I can already tell Sophie is going to be an independent girl because she made us work hard to get those sleeping shots, but it paid off! There is nothing sweeter and more angelic than a sleeping baby. These new parents are doing a great job! They were patient and so smitten with their fresh little babe. Capturing this new little family in their space made my heart sing! They grow up fast, so I hope they can look back on these photos and remember all the little details of this time.
Sisters on Valentines
These two have been sick, tired and therefore cranky for the past couple weeks. I know they don’t feel well, but some days all the whining and crying and not sleeping just pushes me until I feel like I can’t do it. They can be so hot and cold. Tackling each other and stealing toys one minute and then cuddling and giving each other kisses the next. They are so sweet at times, it feels like my heart can’t soak up any more love. These photos were taken in less than five minutes and the girls went through the whole range of emotions haha… it captures their relationship perfectly! Man they sure are cute!
I always wondered who actually bought these giant stuffed animals on valentines… turns out it’s uncles that love their nieces a lot (and don’t care about where mom is going to keep them).
Favorite Things + Skincare
I decided I would share a few of my favorite things with you. I found most of them because someone else shared them with me, so I thought I would do the same. Up first is skincare. I have always struggled with my skin. I had horrible acne as a teenager and still break out often. I’m still searching for solutions, so it’s a work in progress. What has helped me the most is keeping everything that touches my face clean. I wash my pillowcase often, wash my hands before cleansing or doing my makeup, use clean washcloths and towel to dry, and clean my makeup brushes weekly.
First off, I use one of these washcloths to wash my face and another one to pat it dry. They are so soft! I just ordered these ones too, but haven’t tried them yet. I’m not sharing a cleanser because I haven’t found one I love yet, so if you have any suggestions please share!
Comer Family + in-home session
The Comer family. So sweet and laid back. It turns out, our families are at similar places in our lives… both been married 5 years with two kids almost the same ages. Down the road I’m thinking we could set up their boys with my girls! I think it would be perfect… my husband would probably fight me on it though. I don’t think he will ever let them date, but maybe he will make an exception for adorable Sonny and Wells?
I love the way Brinley decorated her home, so simple and modern. It was right up my alley! It really allows their personalities and love for each other shine through. And Brinley’s style! If it wasn’t for her cute kids, her overalls would have stolen the show! I saw so many qualities in them as parents that I hope I can emulate with my girls. Sometimes family pictures can stress parents out (especially when toddlers are involved haha), but they were just easy going, lovey, patient and playful the whole time. I could spend the rest of my life only photographing moms and their babies and I would be completely content. When you see the look on Brin’s face, you’ll see why. Pure love and adoration. It’s just so good! And it’s all that really matters.
play
I took a break from blogging over the holidays, so I thought I would post a quick one of some shots I took of my kids this morning. Featuring lots of bananas, playing, dancing, reading and messy hair. Always messy hair. Not pictured: me still in my pajamas.
Brian Family + Memory Grove Park
My husband and I are friends with Kelsey and her husband Ryan. I was honored when Kelsey asked if I would take family photos of her side of the family, the Brian’s. I had met most of her family before, but it was so nice to meet the rest of her siblings. They are all just as kind and sweet and Kelsey, and they know how to have fun together! It really should be illegal for one family to get all the good looks though; aren’t they all gorgeous? We fit this session in right before all the pretty leaves fell. Some of them had to make quite the drive to meet up for these photos. I’m so glad they all took the time to make it happen, because I love how they turned out! Thanks Brian/Forsyth/Richardson family! I had a great time with you all!
Fall Lovin’ + Personal Post
I got a little behind on editing my personal work. I finally caught up and thought I would share some of my favorites from this fall. Man, this family of mine is cute!