Tami Proffitt

My friend, taken too early

2012-01-18T10:04:00.000-08:00

This is an extra, emotional blog post. Especially emotional for me, I've started to write this and deleted it more times than I can count on one hand.

I'm truly not sure the best way to start it.

Where to begin?

What to write?

How much do I write?

Do I really share all I'm feeling?

Do I want myself exposed on my blog that is more for business reasons?

Do I want to be honest?

All I keep thinking is, those that know me and work with me, know one thing....I'm a very passionate person. I put my heart in all my relationships; with my family, friends and my clients.

So, from that...I've decided to be honest and just be me.

Before reading on, please know...this is all about a man that I loved and blessed to know that I was able to call him my friend. My friend that I grew to love. Not just because he was my best friend's father, but because of my photography...he and I became friends. Because of photography, he and I grew to know eachother.

I'm going to start with a little history, I began my friendship with my girlfriend 6 years ago when she and I were expecting our first children. By a miracle, she and I delivered our first babies on the same day, at the same hospital. Her husband and my husband grew up together playing ball and going to school together.

Years after we had our children, we were talking and she suddenly thought about her parent's property that she realized I would be giddy to use as a location for photography. She and I met at her parents after dance class one morning. She took me on a tour of her parent's property that was filled with old cars, car parts, an old garage and just random pieces that her father had collected over the years in hopes to one day repair, rebuild and restore. Each piece on the property had a purpose. Most times, not really sure of the purpose, but each piece had a purpose because one man saw a treasure in a rusted piece of junk.

I remember meeting her father for the first time and he was like a giddy school boy just thrilled that someone else was just in love with his peices as he was. He was flattered. He was humbled. More importantly, he was generous. For years, he allowed me to come to his home and use each part of his property for photography without reservation.

During each visit at his property, before and after a session, he and I would spend time together either speaking briefly about his collection or at great length. I remember a time he and I stood in his garage and I asked about random pieces he had....license plates and old metal "things". He then showed me an album of all the cars he had restored for OTHER people. Not cars for himself but cars that people brought him that he often told me should have just been demolished...but he found a way to break the car down to just a shell and create a beautiful piece that restored a piece of history for someone to be proud of.

This is a man, that when I arrived for a session, he would come out and greet me with a hug and smiling. I don't recall a time that I never saw him without a smile and he didn't hug me. Like his wife and kids describe him....he was just a big teddy bear. And that is true....he was one big, huggable teddy bear, and just flattered that I would want to take pictures with his collection...or as his family called it, his junk. One time, he was so excited to share with me that he was able to get two antique mailboxes that he had to have because he knew I would just love them.

Sadly, last Sunday, he was involved in a car accident. He had left with a neighbor...who considered Don the brother he never had...to go for a ride in a 50's model Ford truck he was excited to show him. About two blocks from his home, he was going southbound through an intersection when a man, with two children in the car, ran a red light. I'm going to spare you the horrific details of the accident, but share that because of the other man's carless choice to run a red light, Don tragicly lost his life.

On the day of the accident, I had called my best friend so my daughter could sell her Girl Scout cookies. An hour later, we arrived to her house so my girlfriend could have the "full" blue vest, Girl Scout soliciting experience to only find out that within the hour of me speaking to her, she received the news of the accident and had rushed to be by her father's side. In that short hour....the life my girlfriend and her family knew was going to forever change to the horrific nightmare they are now finding themselves living in.

So, here I am now...sad, confused and angry. I'm sad that I no longer have that man in my life that I was lucky enough to appreciate and love. Sad that I'm seeing his wife, children and grandchildren grieving the loss for their husband and father. And I'm angry! I'm angry that because of a careless man's decision to disregard traffic laws put children in jeopardy, severely injured a man and took the life of another man.

Took the life of a man that was full of generous spirit, positive on all accounts, the source of strength and support for his family and constantly loving those around him.

As everyone knows, every family has a story. But, through photography and working closely with families I've come to learn the story of each family I photograph, cherish their story and strive to capture their story to forever remember.

Don's family has a very heartwrenching, emotionally filled, and loving story. While keeping this families story private....all I can write is their story has been in hyperdrive, with ups and down, in less than a year than any family should endure in a lifetime.

And then this happens to them.

This is where I'm confused, and angry again, with how life plays out.

To best describe the emotions of this family, I have to quote my friend as she wrote me,

"How will it ever be okay again? Tami, I don't think it ever will. He was the positive one that made everything bearable for everyone. So many people have been hurt and upset by this. It is a nightmare."

Yesterday, I received a text from my friend asking me about a picture that I had taken of her father by a car. Wow, I was dumbfounded as to where in the world it would be. I knew it had been taken years ago and I barely had an idea of where to even begin to search for it. I searched through all 4 harddrives and all my disks. And, it was nowhere to be found. The only problem was that I could see the picture in my head, I remembered taking it and knew that in my unorganized methods...it was most likely where it didn't belong. After searching more, in the most unusual places....the file appeared.

Right when I opened the picture, the tears poured out again like the moment I heard he passed away. I looked at that picture and saw the man that always hugged me tight and excited to tell me about something new he had. I saw this man...standing proud in front of a car he had just restored and was preparing to have displayed at a car show.

I saw a man that was taken before his time. He was taken when he is needed here most.

He had plans. He was finally planning on restoring vehicles he had collected for himself.

He was a selfless man, that did for others before himself.

Then, I find myself angry again. Angry at that man, that because of HIS choice to disregard the importance of traffic laws, my friend is no longer here to hug.

Angry because I remember that phone call to my friend to sell cookies and she answered in her typical, random answering fashion....not with a hello, but singing a song. And all I think about it the same question she's asking, will it ever be okay again?

Yesterday I spoke to a girlfriend, who is also my grieving friend's close friend...and we were talking about the loss of Don. Our friend put it perfectly....Don was strong and always positive but his daughter is everything we loved about Don wrapped up in her.

And our friend was right, she is strong, positive and always the source of strength. She is always positive...rarely do you hear her angry, negative or not looking on the upside. She is her father, and because I know her...I do know that they will get through this because Don left a lot of himself in each one of his daughter's and son.

One thing I know true, is that family is tight. They don't go a day without speaking to their mom or seeing eachother.

To wrap up this emotional blog post, I ask each of you reading to please pray for my girlfriend and her family....they need it most now more than ever.

And, to share with you pictures of a glimpse of his collection that he treasured.

Don, with a car he restored in 2009.

A bus that has been on Don's property for 20+ years. I laugh when I hear the memories his kids have of this bus. Don swore that it was drivable and it was on his list to fix.
A truck a friend had brought him to restore. It had a matching traveling trailer with it.
A car that Don was in the process of restoring. He literally gutted the car and was building it back up from nothing. This was a car that Don thought it would've been best to let it just rest but he was finding a way and was committed to restore it back to working condition. The boy in the picture is Don's oldest grandson.
The truck in the picture was gorgeous...just beautiful. In the past year, Don had it running again and was driving it down the road. He later sold it. The family in this picture is his oldest daughter.
The inside of Don's garage with one of his own cars...that I believe has been just collecting dust for some years while he was working on other's cars.
One of Don's collector's piece. The tricycle is also Don's that didn't work but just laid around and became the perfect photography prop.
The outside of his garage. Below is an old truck that Don had up on one of his shelves. He had brought in down to show me, thinking I might like to use it. Don has so many treasures.
Again, please pray for Don's family. I know the pain I'm feeling for the loss of a great man is just an ounce of what his wife and children are experiencing right now. A feeling I can't even fathom.

For now, I'm more than likely to let this blog go quiet for a while. I'll be back soon to share more of the sessions from 2011 and update with the sessions starting this weekend.

Beautiful and Loving | Paradise Valley Family Photographer

2012-01-13T10:05:00.000-08:00

I have to laugh when I think of the scheduling process for this family session. While my calendar was booked, I had initially spoken to the mother of this family thinking I had an opening on my fall calendar when I actually didn't. After much patience and me feeling bad that I had said that I could schedule her family, I was able to find a weekend date that I don't normally schedule sessions so that I could photograph her family. And let me write, her family session was definitely worth working on a Saturday!

Her session goes in me record books at probably the most dreamiest and fun family session with a set of soon to be 2 year old twins! That age for twins is definitely not an easy age to photography, there is also tons of activity and typically going in two different directions. But what made this session perfect, is the parents had a realistic idea of what the session would be like and shared with me that they just wanted fun family pictures, and that included their twins going in two different directions.

Both parents just enjoyed each second with their boys, whether or not they were happy...they were both just googly eyed in love with their little blessings. Which, when you hear their family story....their two babies are definitely blessings.

Absolutely adore this picture below! Again, it was one of those moments where I wasn't camera ready for the moment but was able to capture a glimpse of the love....the framing wasn't at all on purpose but just a lucky capture. She is just head over heels in love with her babies.
Adore this picture! I love being able to capture the two different personalities...one all ready to put on a show and the other just pensive, while trying to figure everything out!

Again, ultra favorite family session that had my assistant and I leaving on cloud 9! The session, and family, were heavenly perfect and just too much fun to photograph! It almost makes me want to relive the days my twins were 2 years old and have their same attitude for MY family session.

My cousin's family |Gilbert Family Photographer

2012-01-12T13:05:00.000-08:00

Very excited to finally share my cousin's gorgeous family session!

There were several reschedules needed for her session...and the build up for her session was getting big! We had chatted about what her family color pallette was and the wardrobe she planned out and I knew exactly the location that would be perfect for her wardrobe.

Every.Single.Detail. worked out for her session and all the reschedules were totally worth it!

I was uber happy to have time to photograph my cousin with her husband! I told them where I wanted them to stand and they were just outside of the water. Ahem...I then retold her where and she asked...."In the water?" Yep, I want you completely standing in the water and we just laughed! The random places I put families made us laugh!

And yes, her entire family is just gorgeous...inside and out! Also, she is one super fabulous hair stylist!

He grew up |Phoenix Family Photographer

2012-01-11T13:15:00.000-08:00

I know I say it over and over again how happy I am to watch families and children grow and change. But, it's always the holiday season that I remember most how fortunate I am in this little business I have.

This little guy had the sweetest newborn session and here he is just days after he was born.

In November, I was able to photograph him in his glorious first year! He is just as cute and so full of curiousity. He definitely made me work for the little smiles too.

People often comment about past sessions that they've loved and describe the session to me....often following it up with saying that they're sure I photograph too many families to remember each session. I'm always happy to corrent them that yes, I remember EACH family I work with...whether it's one time or several! I value each family that gives me the opportunity to photograph them. THAT is what I love about my job, connecting with people and giving them memories to forever cherish.

I think as I update my blog from this past fall, I'll be pulling pictures from my archives to go with their updated pictures.

Thanks again for all your love and sharing such sweet words with me. My business is little and often struggling to survive as my family takes the majority of my time. This year I'll be celebrating my 6th year of business.

My nieces | Gilbert Family Photographer

2012-01-08T11:47:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago, my sister in law and my nieces were in town from North Carolina while my brother was in Aghganistan. I was thrilled when we were able to schedule a super fast session the night before they flew back.

My brother's oldest daughter was born just 3 days before my twins. Our three girls were very close and then she moved, it was nice to see them get along just as good before they moved away 2 years ago.

Their mother has natural curly hair and both of the girls have her curl....what little lucky girls!

I think my niece Lilly, on the left, looks just like my brother! This picture reminds me so much of him.

Miss you Bella and Lilly!

Celebrating 50 years |Gilbert Family Photographer

2012-01-08T10:36:00.000-08:00

This post literally has me lost as to where to begin in writing about this sweet couple celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. This couple has the greatest and most amazing history in Gilbert. They are both original Gilbert residents. They were high school sweethearts, soon married after high school, and still live in Gilbert.

Below is Mr. Everett. He is considered the greatest high school coach in Gilbert, and most likely the valley. Not only is he the greatest coach, but he taught history at Gilbert High for 43 years. He is one of those men that you could sit and talk with him for hours because there isn't a detail that he doesn't know about history and has the most amazing memory. When I began talking with them about when they were married....he was telling me details of that year that I wanted so badly to remember each one. Of course, my memory is seriously sucktastic...and the biggest memory I remember is how tuition when he was in college was $125 for a semester at ASU.

The extra special history with this amazing couple is they are also my in-laws dearest friends. Mr. and Mrs. Everett have three daughters...and they are my husband's longest friends. My husband tells me stories of growing up with the Everett's fishing and hunting all over the state. He remembers Mr. Everett constantly telling them and quizing them about history, which I swear is why my husband, TW, is so brilliant with history. TW also says the Everett girls are three of the best fishermen. Which I love because he one day told me he hoped his girls could hunt and fish as good as the Everett girls.

This past week, I had their 50th anniversary session at their home. Here is Mr. Everett in front of his fathers pickup.

Happy 50th anniversary Mr. and Mrs. Everett!

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Personal Update: Tomorrow is when I officially plan to return to work and holy cow, my office is in serious need of attention before the piles of papers overflow out my office doors. These past few weeks off were perfect and I couldn't imagine how I ever even attempted to work when my twins weren't in school. I just no longer have it in me to work past 10:00 anymore.

My plan for the next couple weeks is to do some majoy blogging to share all the gorgeous family sessions this past fall that never made it to my blog. Be sure to return to see sweet family goodness and giggles!

Happy New Year!

Very fun and SWEET family! | Chandler Family Photographer

2011-12-13T13:09:00.000-08:00

Each year, I've looked forward to the session with this amazingly sweet family! Since their first session when their son was 4 months old, there was something about them that I just loved. It's one of those things you just can't put your finger on...but just know it's something special because each time I think of them...I smile!

The session was in the middle of November, not exactly the time to see ladybugs. Until we noticed the sweet bugs all around....making for perfect reasons to sit back and enjoy these random moments!

It always means the world to me to see the families I've loved to watch grow up, greet me at the start of their session with a hug! After the small talk in catching up since their last session, they handed me a beautifully wrapped package. I was completely taken back...here they are hiring me to take their pictures and then they give me a gift. After I got home, I opened the present to find adorable kitchen utensils for kids, but all the ingredients to make a yummy recipe she gave to me. The heartwarming part of the gift was a sweet note....thanking me for always giving them memories they will cherish forever and the gift was in hopes for me to have time to create memories for me to cherish with my own children. {sigh} It's moments like this that make the crazy, busy season so worth all the minutes and hours I'm working late into the night and feeding my family nothing but fast food.

Yes...this family is beautiful, but they are just as beautiful on the inside.

After their session, the parents were off on an anniversary date...knowing that they took time to be with me for their session before their anniversary celebration would have been a gift enough.

Turning 4 | Gilbert Child Photographer

2011-12-07T09:59:00.000-08:00

Two of the sweetest twins just celebrated their 4th birthday! Huge happy birthday wishes sent out to both of these cuties....each session is just as fun as the first time I photographed them!

Fabulously fun family | Scottsdale Family Photographer

2011-11-09T08:50:00.000-08:00

Each session has been incredibly fun this season, but as of right now this family session probably tops it for constant hysterically laughing, fun chats and just an all around great time with a sweet family!

When you look at these pictures, it'll be hard to resist being in awe of the fabulous style this family has! The mommy in this family is the brilliant woman behind Savvy Styled Sessions! She is a lover of anything Anthropologie and seriously, that store never disappointed! I'm in heaven with her belt, dress and super cute shoes!

The dad in this family was hysterically funny the entire session and had me nonstop laughing! We loved it when a random puppy joined in the photography session!

Oh, Isacksen family....I'm still smiling from your super fun session!

The sweet stage |Gilbert Family Photographer

2011-11-08T19:42:00.000-08:00

This is the time of year, that I don't see my friends, I make all phone calls to and from sessions, and I rarely leave my office. It may be the craziest time for me with busy days and late nights, this season is hands down the smoothest season I've ever had...each session is dreamy, unique and I get to spend time with incredible families.

I couldn't resist sharing a beautiful maternity session with two new parents to be....and they were the sweetest, most sincere and incredibly in love with eachother. I was in heaven just photographing it.

I can only imagine how gorgeous their baby girl will be and I'm counting the weeks until I photograph her. Her mommy was very on top of things and booker her maternity/newborn session with me this past August...I'm on pins and needles for her newborn session. And, can you believe she is 8 months pregnant....seriously, I could've only dreamed to be so lucky!

For the past few days, I've been busy with designing cards and products. I loved having this little break to edit a few pictures from this session. I've had incredibly fun sessions these past couple weeks that I'm excited to show everyone!

Hopefully, I'll be caught up soon and start blogging more.

Fun and fabulous | Gilbert Family Photographer

2011-10-28T14:03:00.000-07:00

With the holiday portrait season here, it's understatement to write that life has been a little more than busy. But, it's a good busy, especially when I'm working on pictures from fun family sessions!

It always me laughing when I'm leaving a family session with little ones and the family wondering if I was able to get any good pictures! This family session was the magical kind of family session as the parents were super relaxed and enjoyed their little family of four before it becomes a family of 5.

I'll be taking the next two days to have a little relaxing time to be with my family.

I'll be back, refreshed and ready, on Tuesday!

Have a fabulous holiday weekend!

A girl and her boys | Paradise Valley Family Photographer

2011-10-27T12:38:00.000-07:00

It doesn't seem that long ago I was photographing this family after they welcomed their baby boy earlier this year. And here he is 8 months old. I have two favorite memories from this family session, seeing the personality of this sweet little baby and capturing the happiest smiles from the proud and only girl in the family.

Oh, I love this little guy and get the best hugs when I see him! At the start of this session he greeted me with a big hug and a big bag of yummy candy.

It's pretty rare I convert an image in black and white...I saw this moment in black and white right after I captured it.
R family...as always, it was a pleasure seeing all of you!

Their family story | Gilbert Family Photography

2011-10-26T12:41:00.000-07:00

There are oodles of good things I could say about this family session! What I think I'll highlight most is this family is all about just embracing the active stage their family is in with 4 year old twins and a soon to be 2 year old boy.

The family was super relaxed and full of laughs because as every family with little ones knows....it's not the easiest thing to get little ones all sitting perfect and smiling on cue. And, honestly, that's not typical for little ones. The biggest advice I give families I've never photographed before is....just relax and have fun.

My friend recently told me, after talking about how fun family sessions can be with little ones... that even if the session may feel chaotic, the moments captured will tell a very different story.

The pictures from a family session tell the story of a family that loves eachother, can laugh at the unpredictable moments, warm a parent's heart when thinking of how each child has blessed their life and give them a moment in their life that they will never get back. I first photographed this sweet family when their twins were turning a year old, and they know how a session can go with me. But what I value most with the clients that hire me is when they trust me with their kids.

They trust me in knowing that I'll probably get the more unsuspecting glances and giggles when the kids have a little alone time with the camera.

And more importantly, at the end of the session hearing them say they worry if I captured anything and leaving the session trusting that I did.

This session was like the perfect ice cream sundae, with a cherry on top!

Here are a dozen, or so, of my favorite captures from my time with them.

I absolutely adore their set of twin girls! Obviously identical but they have such different personalities but love eachother and are shy about talking about it. At one point, I asked one of the girls to tell her sister a secret and I overheard her whisper....I love you! My heart absolutely melted.

There isn't anything better than a fun game of tickles...ticklefest captured below!

I have a picture of these twins from when they were about two in almost the same position. Seriously, could sister love be any sweeter!?!

I'm not sure why he was covering his face but I love how the sweet dimples can be seen in his hands and the beautiful curls in his hair.
Seriously....could these three get any cuter! They even have the same wrinkle in their nose when they laugh.

The best part of family sessions is another session can't have pictures similar to another one. Every family has their own story to tell, love to be captured, giggles that melt the heart and moments that never want to be forgotten.

I love the story this family session.

One hysterically funny family! |Gilbert Family Photographer

2011-10-19T12:53:00.000-07:00

Every year, I get excited to photograph this family! They are one super styling family, hysterically funny and ultra sweet!

PIctures and Snow! | Gilbert Family Photographer

2011-10-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

This past week has been an absolute whirlwind of days that just rolled together! I think it's safe to say that the busy holiday portrait season is officially here. Even though it is complete madness with coming and going, living in my office and on the phone/computer nonstop, it's also a favorite time of the year because I get to see many families I've been blessed to photograph for almost 4 years. And even better when I get to see how much the kids have grown, give them big hugs and laugh with them as they laugh at me in all the quirky positions I'll get in just to get "that" picture.

Last weekend I was up north and in true Arizona weather unpredictability, I arrived to the session location to find almost 2 inches of snow. It has snowed the night before the session and I was sure it was going to be cold, I just wasn't positive there would be snow. I had called my client and shared with them that they did have options to reschedule for another time but they assured me that they were good with the session time and weather possibilities. I had moved the session time back by almost an hour in hopes it might be a bit warmer and if there was snow it might have melted a bit...but no, we arrived to the location with it 32 degrees and snow everywhere! Just when you think that's the time to get stressed out, I met up with the family and all we could do was laugh.

And I think that was my favorite part...just laughing through the session even though the session was thrown a HUGE curve ball as the location went from a dreamy creek covered by trees to snow everywhere!

Honestly, I couldn't imagine a better family to take pictures of in the snow then this family!

To get to the location we had to go down a slope that was covered in snow. Since this location is a favorite location to go to with my own family, I knew underneath was a rocky path, needless to say, we were very cautious.

I just love this little miss, shy and quiet but filled with giggles this whole session. Maybe because I had her sitting in snow and I was crouched in the middle of snow covered trees to get this picture.
Or maybe because we had to hide from the side that was getting pretty high in the sky and everywhere we went the snow was falling on them. :)

Taking pictures in the snow is definitely something I wasn't familiar with....it has it challenges but it also gives such a magical glow in pictures when the light hits the snow just right.

And the absolutely fabulous parents of this gorgeous family, this picture reminds me of the Colbie song "Bubbly". I think she has the cutest laugh.
And the session ended perfectly when I asked the family if they'd be interested in having a snowball fight, with all the girls shaking their head no...the dad reminded them that having snowball fights even when they are cold is how good memories are made! Yep, I smiled big when I heard that!
Totally dreamy picture and then seconds later getting a snowball thrown at her. LOVE it!

H family....LOVED my session with you even if it wasn't in the most ideal conditions, I couldn't imagine being with another family! Thanks for going with the flow!

Missing them more

2011-10-11T20:37:00.000-07:00

I always tell my kids that I love them more than they will ever know. And now, I'm missing them more than they will ever know. Last weekend, I took my kids to Pinetop to have a fabulously fun weekend of hanging out with their grandparents.

Of course I'm enjoying the unusually clean and quiet house but when I begin thinking that something is getting forgotten, I remember it's the laughter and arguing that I'm missing. Even thought the arguing seriously gets old day after day, but I really do miss it right now.

In just a few days, I'll get to hugs my babies as tight as I want and I'm sure I'll soon be complaining that the arguing won't stop. For now I should be enjoying it.

The weekend I took the kids up north, we had a very impromtu picnic at our favorite park there, Woodland Park. It's seriously a little slice of heaven in the middle of Pinetop. The kids loved exploring with their binoculars, going on walks and enjoying just being outside.

My daughter Cash isn't the biggest fan of being in front of my camera. She's typically grunting and asking me to please stop. She usually looks like the picture below, totally annoyed. HA!
This day, she kept asking me to take her picture instead of running from me. What's a mom to do but take as many as I can, whether they're candid or not.

I love my little miss! She is always full of amazing questions, always watching over her brother and sister, constantly there to remind me of traffic laws, thinking beyond the basics with her questions, reliably there to hug me and remind me that she loves me to pieces and always there to help me. I love her to pieces and can never get enough of her!

And then my sweet Cam with a random piece of ice from the bird bath that made a perfect frown! Seconds later she was eating the ice!
With my kids gone I've been going nonstop with what nots and I'm determined to get ahead with my work before the weekend filled with sessions!

Happy October everyone!

Family Adventures! |Gilbert Family Photographer

2011-10-07T09:11:00.000-07:00

October officially starts the super busy season for pictures until December!

With the busy season here already, I know it'll be a great season especially when it begins with one ultra fun and amazing family! The sweet mom and I had been cooresponding for a couple months regarding her family session and by the time of her session, I felt like I was hanging out with old friends. Her entire family was nothing but fun!

The little miss in the family is only 16 months old and just as precious as can be! She loved being in the water, even if it was 65 degrees out...I think they might have a little fish in the family.

Thank you H family for a fabulous time! And, thank you for being so fun in creating memories that we all will remember and smile when we think of your family session.

Celebrating their perfect family of 4 | Gilbert Family Photographer

2011-10-05T11:22:00.000-07:00

There is nothing more flattering for me than when a friend of my husband wants to hire me to photograph his family. About two weeks ago, I was contacted to schedule a newborn/family session after they welcomed their newest baby girl into their family. Sadly, I wasn't able to schedule them on the calendar because it was completely full. Then, at the last minute I had a reschedule and I was happy that they were able to schedule their session on such short notice!

I couldn't be more excited for the session to work out. The only detail that didn't quite fit was the baby was then a month old...past the age to get the precious curly, sleepy newborn pictures. When I told them that, they shared that what they wanted most was fun family pictures. Uh huh...perfect, that is a recipe for an ultra fun session. And that's exacty what the session was, fun and beautiful.

Meet Baby Rylee. I love the story behind how names are chosen. This precious angel has a combination of her father's first and middle name! And, I just love it!

Big sister had me laughing almost the entire session. She is quite the chatty girl and the things she said were hysterical. I'm head over heels for her beautiful blue eyes.

She was very patient for being 3 and having a few waiting moments to feed the baby to get through. She was amazing!

During one of the waiting periods, she shared with me one of the poses she had been practicing for. Cute!

During another waiting moment, big sis walked away and then came back with a perfect little kid snack. I laughed when her parents weren't quite sure where she got it from. One thing I've learned, never underestimate a 3 year old.

Always a fan of the funny outtakes with babies.

Since the session was on a Sunday and game day, it was a must to have a little game day jersey fun. Sweet big sis was doing a little victory dance here.

My most favorite part of the session was watching the proud daddy completely in love with his daugthers! It was sweet to watch how clearly there isn't anything he wouldn't do for his girls.

To the C family, thank you over and over again for a fabulous last minute session! I was thrilled you were able to schedule at the last minute.

Designer: Madison Reece Designs

2011-10-04T09:03:00.000-07:00

After my last love fest post of Madison Reece Designs, I was SO thrilled to finally share the four designs she sent me for my girls! Her designs can be made in sizes for babies up to little girls!

There are several, several pictures from my little fun photo shoot with my girls in her designs. As I wrote earlier, her clothing is such beautiful quality and the colors are really ideal for a fun photo session.

The headband she sent me is adorable and SO fun! I gave it to my daughter Cam, and I loved how she chose to wear it! Obviously, she isn't wearing it in a traditional headband style and I giggled when she put it on! So cute!

With the holiday portrait season just starting, Madison Reece Designs was generous to offer a sweet 20% discount for any orders placed from her Etsy site.

She has oodles of cute dresses and skirts available. My favorite part of her designs is that they are very colorful and would be easy to use in coordinating with a family wardrobe. The possiblities in using her designs is endless.

Take a minute and go to her Etsy site at Madison Reece Designs and begin choosing your favorites. To use the 20% discount on your order, enter 20OFF when completing your order.

If you're not quite sure about how to incorporate her designs into your family wardrobe, Savvy Styled Sessions is amazing in styling families, and children, for portrait sessions. Don't hesitate to contact Angela with Savvy Styled Sessions to have assistance. You can also find Savvy Styled Sessions on Facebook HERE.

Designer: Madison Reece Designs

2011-10-01T19:56:00.000-07:00

First, let me start with...I'm the farthest thing from a product photographer. I think it's super important to have a photography business that offers photography in a specialized area. A few of my friends are amazing product photographers, simply amazing, and I'm always blown away by their skills.

In the past couple years, as I've been contacted for potential product work, I've always referred to a friend and graciously passed on the option. Until recently, I was contacted by Madison Reece Designs and she was referred by a fabulous stylist and from that referral I gave this idea some thought.

In the past, I had one experience with a designer from Etsy for dresses for my daughter's 5th birthday session and the clothes were far from what I would have considered quality. Meaning, it looked like my daughter's could have sewn dresses and had a better product then what I received.

Then a week ago, I received the clothing from Madison Reece Designs and I was in awe of her work. The quality in her handcrafted skirts, dress, headband, barrett, and necklace were amazing. I was simply impressed with her quality in choice of fabric and craftmanship. The color coordination was superb, style was classic yet modern, and ideal for any portrait session. When I saw her pieces, I couldn't help but think of how there are many possibilities in creating other wardrobe options with each clothing piece. It was so much fun just thinking of all the could be done with each piece.

With our weeks getting busier, today I finally had the chance to photograph my girls in Madison Reece Designs!

Okay, I've totally gone on a love fest for Madison Reece. For now, here is just one sweet little picture of my twins in two of her creations!

If you have a chance, head over to Madison Reece Designs Etsy page. Soon, there will be a super fun sale going on with her designs! YAY!

It's a sister thing |Chandler Family Photographer

2011-09-18T20:22:00.000-07:00

Just a couple weeks ago, at the very last minute, I scheduled a session for a family after a phone call from a sister that clearly loves her older sister. She took time to share with me her family story and the outpouring of love that's in her family. She shared they are huge Yankee fans, originally from New York and her family has an incredible sense of humor with each other. It was definitely a family that I was excited to photograph.

Meet Susan and Lolly. Two sisters that are perfect for eachother to lift spirits, laugh hysterically at the simplest phrases and be the shoulder to lean on during those hard days.

Tonight's session was full of laughter and love...the perfect combination for a great session.

Another moment to remember!

2011-09-17T13:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday on our way home from school, I look in my rearview mirror and I see my sweet Cash with chocolate on her face and my heart melted. For some reason, it was that very moment that I thought I want to remember that very face. I'm not to sure why.

Maybe because Cash is definitely my little fashion diva. She's always opinionated with what I take pictures of. She dresses herself every day. She definitely has a mind of her own.

She wasn't too thrilled I wanted a picture of her face messy and she quickly tried to lick off what she could...little stinker. And of course, each picture she put her own little spin on it with bitting her lip, sticking her tougue out and forcing herself to be happy to touch her sister. Oh, she makes me laugh. And at the same time, sad that she's growing up so fast. She's always been the twin that's a little more wound tight, adament about her likes/dislikes, opinionated and my little worrier. Lately I'm finding myself telling her more and more to just relax and enjoy being a child. Because one day, she'll find herself worrying about work and paying bills.

My baby girl, growing up faster than what her mommy is wanting. Oh, my heart melts just looking at her.

Hee hee...just a glimpse of one of her outfits. She has a stylish habit of wearing leggings and a tanktop under EVERYthing, including her pajamas. Do her leggings match....rarely but she can totally rock out every outfit she creates.
For a second, I go her to relax for a real smile. She was giggling because her sister was trying to tickle me.
Cam could hug her sister all day long and be in heaven....Cash, she definitely prefers her personal space. :)
I always laugh when I people say to me, "you must have tons of pictures of your kids." HA, it's actually the opposite. I'll go weeks without taking a picture of my kids once...just because I'm pure lazy. I started that 365 picture a day at the beginning of the year...ha! I know my friends and family had a bet for how long I could keep to it. I've never been the best at following direcitons or keeping to goals. I'm definitely a more....live in the moment and beat to my own drum....kind of a gal!

With the my busiest season just weeks away, I know I'll soon only be picking my camera up to go on a session. I'm hoping I'll be better this season with remembering to savor the moments in my day to day life before they're gone.

Missing her daddy

2011-09-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

For over a week now, my husband has been gone hunting. My husband is definitely the burly mountain man that loves being outdoors and hunting. His father drew an amazing elk tag and he's been up north helping him fill it. It's pretty typical for me to spend the fall single parenting it up during hunting season.

The only bad thing is everytime my husband goes out of town, I somehow get really sick and just before this trip I got sick...AGAIN! And it was not fun, I was plain miserable.

One thing that's hard about him being gone is the kids are getting older and really miss their daddy. After several days of not talking to him my daughter had a chance to talk with him and was in heaven during the phone call.

As I laid on the bed watching her talk to her daddy, I couldn't help but think of how I want to remember this moment forever. Isn't that what photography is all about, capturing a minute of our lives to have the memory to stay permanently recorded? Photography...it's wonderful and where would we be without it.

A girl and her favorites | Gilbert Child Photographer

2011-09-16T08:49:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I had a super fun session with this sweet little 2 year old! She is so mature and such a chatterbox!

Her face lite up when her mom pulled out this fun lollipop!

Happy birthday sweet Ivy!

Ivy and her mommy!

My heart melted over her beautiful lashes.
One of my daughters is a thumbsucker so of course I was a sucker for this picture.

Just perfect at 2 |Mesa Child Photographer

2011-09-13T13:52:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's taken me this long to post the pictures from a session in July...with one of the sweetest little guys that I'm totally addicted to. I began photographing him right after he was born...and I still see so much of his sweet newborn face. One of my favorite pictures from his newborn session is hanging in my office and I smile each time I see it.

A little side note....every time I've taken his picture there seems to be a weather issue. For his newborn session there was a major rainstorm, last year was extreme heat and humidity and this year it wasn't the heat that was bad it was just miserable humidity! The best part is that didn't get in the way of capturing his sweetness.

Aren't his eyes just adorable!?!

Love him blowing kisses! I was extra excited for this session because I knew it wouldn't be long until I photographed him again. Since....he has a baby brother or sister on the way! Yaaaaay! I'm too excited to see him a big brother and know he'll just be perfect.

The one below just makes me laugh, at one point he kept signing "no" to me so he could look for a dog that he was certain was around somewhere. :)

Even with a little blur...love the caught in action moment.
Seriously, could he get any cuter in his little athletic shoes and argyle vest!?!
Ty and family, I can't wait to see the next chapter begin!

Simple Session | Gilbert Family Photographer

2011-09-12T16:01:00.001-07:00

A few months ago, a friend of mine from high school moved back to the valley. I've been itching to photograph her with her son...she is always full of smiles, always positive and there for anyone at anytime.

This session was very simple and I was in heaven just photographing her doing what she loves most...being a mother.

There really isn't a time that she can be found without a smile and laughing! I just love this girl! And I love sessions of just a mom and the one she loves the most.

Loved the little split second captured of Dax and a bit of his serious side.
And...Dax doing one of his many funny faces! :)

Celebrating the big 1! |Queen Creek Child Photographer

2011-09-02T09:34:00.000-07:00

So sweet and fun to be able to photograph this sweet baby girl since the last time I photographed her she was a newborn.

For a little flashback, here's Reegyn just a week old.

Here she is at 1...with quick feet, sweet smiles and very curious about everything around her. I left her session truly missing the beautiful 1 year old stage! I really love everything about each stage and wish I could turn back time to enjoy it with each of my kids.

This session with full of curiousities...especially for the dogs that kept constantly barking. The family and I giggled as we moved from area to area trying to avoid the barking dogs.

Baby Reegyn was such a gem and loved all the personality she shared with me. I could just squeeze her she is so cute.

LOVE this one year old personality when they discover their voice.

And of course the first steps! LOVE!

Happy 1st Birthday Reegyn!

Family of 6 |Gilbert Family Photographer

2011-08-29T06:26:00.000-07:00

A little over a week ago, I had one super fun session with a photographer friend of mine and her family! About 8 months ago, I was thrilled when I received the call that she was expecting again and was wanting to be sure to get on my calendar. I was giddy to be asked to document this glorious time in her life. My girlfriend has one fun family that I just knew would be a blast to photograph! And to make it even better, our friend Leah joined the fun and it ended up being a great hangout session filled with several shutter clicks and laughing!

Here is my girlfriend's oldest child and only daughter. I remember Halle when she was just weeks old and let me tell you, she is just as cute as she was then.

And the third....if you remember the baby in the pram in the wheat field...well, this is him 2 years later! How fun it would be to have him back in that wheat field that was across from my girl's dance studio....unfortunately, that wheat hasn't been back in a while.

And, their first boy...Cole! I could just squeeze him is so cute with the sweetest personality.
And their last baby....William a.k.a. Willie! So squishably cute!
The very proud mommy! Now, doesn't she look amazing for having a baby just 1 week ago!

Seriously, the funniest kids! I was in heaven photographing them.

How cute is this basket? Little Willie's mom borrowed it from a local vintage shop. I love the feel of this laundry basket in their bedroom...such a fun personal touch to have her gorgeous new bedding in the picture.

Lindfors family.....huge congrats on having a gorgeous family of 6!

Just another day in the wind! | Scottsdale Family Photographer

2011-08-24T10:34:00.000-07:00

Most photographers are always hunting for a new location. A location that is unused, kept secret and offer it to their clients...a location that is original. In Arizona, it's standard to say that there is little choice of locations that isn't all cactus, desert and overphotographed.

For a year now, I've been dreaming of a session at this little hidden gem in the Arizona desert. And it's so worth the drive.

When planning my cousin's maternity session, I was thankful when she said she trusted what ever location I suggested and was more than willing to follow. I was smiling every day as I thought of her session.

Then came the day of the session. Of course it was another standard Arizona day, temps in the 110's, a heat advisory and storm clouds always in the sky to smoother the valley with humidity.

But, the day of the session...I had an uncomfortable feeling all morning. By noon, I looked east and saw HUGE storm clouds building and I finally made the call to my cousin. I told her that of course her and the baby were a priority and the flexibility was there if she chose to reschedule to another day. As an Arizona girl, she knew this time of year the temperature was standard and preferred to just get through the session. Then the storm rolled in. Thankfully, the storm stayed south and the rain left us alone.

With my uneasy feeling all day, I was extra prepared for the session. I packed extra bottles of water, my backup camera, several memory cards, and extra batteries just in case something went wrong. When I got to the location, I felt like I was caught in an auditorium with my pants down when I felt the hurricane like wind! Yep, seriously...no rain, no heat just a serious windstorm! I just froze and then thought how I still have to make it work in this wind.

A fabulous photographer friend of mine once told me that a photographer can work in any weather/light condition and find a way to make it work. Those words just kept ringing in my head.

Thankfully, when my cousin arrived we just laughed. And extra thankful that she was super laidback and patient. Because there were many, I mean several, moments that we just stood there wishing and praying for the wind to give us a break. Also have to add, it wasn't the fun wind where you can get "super model wind blowing hair look" but wind that was nasty and kept her hair hidden behind her back or wrapped around her neck! grrrrr!

All in all, the session left us with many moments to laugh about. Even though, at the time, I was working hard to hide my frustration with the weather.

Thanks Tali! LOVED your session!

I just had to include this one....there were many hair holding moments! HA!

Thanks again and I'm anxious to meet your newest baby boy! I'm hoping he'll be half as fun as Jax!

Baby P | Gilbert Newborn Photographer

2011-08-22T21:25:00.000-07:00

Seriously, this fall is baby season! And I'm loving all the extra time I'm able to hold such sweet little babies! I'm in baby heaven.

But what's even more beautiful than a newborn baby is the feeling that surrounds the arrival of a new baby. I, personally, remember those moments as the best times in my life. There are never enough words that can describe the love felt when the parents see their baby for the first time.

This recent newborn session was full of taking in each overwhelming feeling of love when looking at their baby girl. And, I loved being able to see and capture it. The parents are in unbelievable awe of their daughter and the love they have for her. They look at their daughter and see complete perfection.

Always love the baby yawns! So squishably cute.

Sweet baby P's room is a girly girl dream room...her mom has amazing style and put together every last touch in the room. Super talented mommy!

Sweet baby B! |Gilbert Family Photographer

2011-08-22T13:42:00.001-07:00

Oh how I love this sweet little miss! Her mom says I'm biased because her parents are good friends of ours. But honestly, I think I'm pretty right that she is the cutest little cherub. I just love her and her eyes!

I just don't think I can get enough of her! Her mom brought her over, I pulled off the sunscreens and my kitchen table was the perfect place for her little mini 2 and a half month session!

Hee hee, LOVE this face and her mom fell in love with this picture when she saw it! Baby B already has an opinion as a baby!

I see so much of her big sister in the sweet face below! Oh, I'm officially obsessed!
Happy Monday everyone! Today is the day I start my new weekly schedule....I thrive on schedules!

A new family |Gilbert Family Photographer

2011-08-17T23:39:00.000-07:00

There was such a fun feeling during a recent newborn session...even if both parents where giggling with just hours of sleep after a few days.

Seriously....there is nothing more sweet than the days that follow after a baby arrives!

My little BIG guy!

2011-08-11T20:45:00.000-07:00

There have been loads of changes going on at my house these past few weeks, my girls started kindergarten and my son grew up in a blink of an eye!

I always knew boys were very different than girls, but these past few months with my son have been so huge eye openers!

My little guy is all boy. He loves his trucks, tractors, army men, everything is a gun (with no encouragement from us) and everything makes a sound. He gets a kick out of everything gross. Loves his dad and would rather do nothing than fish or be outside in the dirt.

Two weeks ago the twins started school and just about everyday our little guy always grabs his Cars backpack hoping he gets to join his sisters. And this week, he finally started his own school...a sports class. The day of his class, he just gave me a wave and walked right in like it was his second home. All I kept thinking was 6 months ago, he wouldn't never been that independent. And here he is today...just ready to be big.

Easton rarely gets time in front of my camera and it's SO opposite from his sisters. By the time my girls were 2 and saw the camera...they typically would run the other direction, hide their faces and usually cry no to me. And than there's Easton...I tell him I want to take his picture and he's ready to go.

Which was actually perfect today. I've had a space on my kitchen wall for a 24x24 gallery print waiting for me to fill it with a picture of Easton. But I just never had that great picture I wanted a part of that wall layout...and today, during his little shoot...I got a few pictures to chose from. And now I just have to decide which one I want on that wall.

Here's my little BIG guy! He's 2 and a half and just as tall as most 4 year olds but still has that toddler "barney rubble" run and sweet toddler giggle. And, I'm clinging to those little bits of toddlerness every day I'm with him.

A few weeks ago, he finally had his first dental check-up. His dentist has been telling me to bring him in for a his first visit and I kept saying...oh no, he'll do a tap dance on the chair because I swore he was half monkey. When I finally brought him in, he was asking the dentist to go in the chair and wear the super COOL glasses the kids get to wear for their cleanings. I just love this little guy!

Since the girls have been in school, I'm loving all the extra time I have with him that I didn't get when we always had the twins with us. It feels good to be able to take him to little classes, storytimes, petting zoo trips and to play with his friends. I love getting to be with him one on one and cherish each second!
But, for now...I'm savoring all that's left of his toddlerhood as he's growing up faster than I'd like. So, if you happen to see me at the mall pushing my a stroller with what looks like a 5 year old...yep, that'll be me! I'll be that mom that still makes her monster two year old sit in a stroller because I just don't want him to grow up. And who knows, I might take it to the next level and reintroduce bottles! HA...okay not really...but it has crossed me mind! Just kidding!
Happy Thursday everyone! And tonight, go hug your babies because you know as well as I do, they grow up too fast.

Happy Birthday Ivy |Gilbert Child Photographer

2011-08-08T20:25:00.000-07:00

I was wanting to just post one of my favorites and I'm ending with 4!

Seriously....totally dreamy time with this precious little girl I quickly became best friends with!

When I was ending the session....thanks to the nasty attack by mosquitos...her mom asked if she was done taking pictures and she said...no.

Sweet little Ivy and I had a blast this afternoon!

Happy 2nd birthday sweet Ivy!

Itty, Bitty and Precious |Gilbert Family Photographer

2011-08-04T14:27:00.000-07:00

There will never be a more precious time in a families life than bringing their baby home.

It's a time of pure happiness, moments filled with utter infatuation and

realizing the feeling of love they could've never imagined.

Welcome home sweet baby girl.

I adored her the sweet curls in her hair! Oh, she is just too precious.
And of course, I'm always happy when I can capture the pure excitement in men!

And, probably the ultimate favorite from the session. A real moment...the kind that makes my heart melt. I remember those newborn days like it was yesterdy...even during the crying spells I couldn't help but look at my babies and think I never could've imagined feeling such indescribable love.

Celebrating the big 2! |Mesa Child Photographer

2011-07-31T09:53:00.000-07:00

Bright and very early this morning, I was thrilled to see this adorable little guy and just LOVE seeing him so big, remembering when he was born, when he was taking his first steps and still just as cute as ever!

The ultimate perk to my job is watching children grow up and catching up with clients like they're old friends!

S family....thank you! I loved this mornings session!

Just a teeny baby |Chandler Family Photographer

2011-07-28T18:02:00.000-07:00

This week is the start of me getting back into the groove of working! I have two sessions this week, with one of them being a newborn session with a precious little baby that was less than 4 pounds today. She was perfect and so precious!

I can't think of anything better to begin my photography sessions again than a wonderful session with a precious baby and with my photographer friend Jackie!

Today was a busy day...busy but very beautiful!

My friend

2011-07-26T16:56:00.000-07:00

Do you ever look at a friend and wonder where your life would be without them?

17 years ago, I began working with a very sweet 6 year old and today, I couldn't be happier to write that she is still a huge part of my life. Her mom and I both agree when we first met, we never thought our friendship would still be growing strong 17 years later.

I have a two priorities in my life, my family is definitely first and my second is the friendship with my friend. Over a year ago she graduated from high school, and shortly after I began working with her again. But when I really think about it, it's not work. She's like my little sister.

My girlfriend grounds me. While she has a developmental disability, she truly honestly grounds me. Just when I begin to have my mind spinning with everything in life....she somehow is able to force me to just stop and breathe. There is never a day that she isn't happy. She is honestly the happiest girl I know. She's always smiling. Always willing.

While I look at her and think of how lucky I am to have her be a part of my life and my kids life, I also see her and want more for her. Sometimes I'm a bit hard on her because I want to see her do more. I'm that big sister that pushes her.

I love this girl with all my heart and as much as I love my own children. What pains me the most is when I look at her and I wonder...what is she really thinking. And, this past year...when I ask her what she's thinking about, she'd always tell me about everything that made her happy. It was then that I realized, that's exactly what she thinks about day and night. She truly just thinks about what makes her happy. I love that about my friend.

My closest friends that see me most know that she's my kids big sister as she's often with us. She can often be heard telling them what and what not to do. Picking them up when they want to be held. Helping them solve problems. Telling them to get along. But, what I love most is when I see her playing with them. When I see her playing games with my kids that I used to play with her my heart melts.

I went looking through my pictures for a birthday present I want made for her and couldn't resist sharing a bit about my friend.

Horses are one of my girlfriend's favorite animals! There isn't one thing that she doesn't know about them. When we go to my parents house, she is in heaven when she gets to help my dad feed and care for them.

Horses are her little slice of heaven on earth!

And now, for a little stroll down memory lane...here are a few pictures from the earlier years of our friendship. After two and a half years as her instructional assistant, it was time to move on. Her mother gave me an amazing little memory book that my girlfriend and I still love to look through together.

Here is the opening page of the memory book.

Again, I couldn't be happier that my kids have known her since they were born and honestly think of her as their big sister! There is no better gift I could ever give my children then Lauren's friendship.

Lastly, here is the poem that her mother included on the last page of the memory book!

I'd like to be the sort of friend that you

have been to me,

I'd like to be the help that you've always been

glad to be;

I'd like to mean as much to you each minute of

the day

as you have meant, old friend of mine,

to me along the way.

-Edgar A. Guest

Happy 23rd birthday Lauren!

Sweet friends |Gilbert Child Photographer

2011-07-19T16:01:00.000-07:00

I know I've continued to be completely absent from anything and almost everything that didn't involve my kids and I have completely enjoyed each second of it. My twins start kindergarten in less than a week and I can finally say that I feel ready. Taking the extra time off to give all my attention to my kids has been totally worth it. And, once my girls start school, I'll be getting back into the swing of things with work.

One of the fun activities the kids and I have been doing is spending our time with favorite friends! My girls are lucky enough to say they have known their best friends since they were babies. And I absolutely love that they have those relationships.

A few weeks ago, we went up north to Pinetop with friends. I was extra happy that I was able to do a birthday session with the girls ultimate best friend, Paisley. I also giggle when I think of them growing up. Especially when Paisley was just starting to crawl and Camryn was obsessed with her. To the point where one time we found Camryn trying to hold her while saying....shhhhhh, of course Paisley was crying because of Cam. Just too funny!

And here's Paisley, a month after she turned 4.

Her sweet little sister, Harper. She's actualy the baby at the top of my blog.

Happy birthday sweet-P! The girls and I love you bunches!

.......................................

Update:

I've been getting asked about if I'll be doing more sessions up in Pinetop for the fall portrait season! And, absolutely YES! I've been scouting around the Pinetop area and happy to have a few more locations to hold sessions as. However, since I've been giving all my attention to my family these past couple months, I'm a bit behind in finalizing Pinetop session dates and times.

At this point, I've been holding off on scheduling sessions for the fall and have starting a "first to contact" list for when I begin scheduling.

The Pinetop session dates and fall calendar dates will be emailed out in the next two weeks. Please keep in mind, I'll only be scheduling full sessions in Pinetop. At this time, I do not plan on scheduling any mini sessions in Pinetop.

Please email me if you would like to be added to "first to know" list! :)

Jacob's 1 |Scottsdale Family Photographer

2011-07-06T14:52:00.000-07:00

Family sessions in the Arizona summer are really really hot! This summer I'm not scheduling any sessions but with repeat clients to allow for me to have more time with my kids without work always lingering in the back of my mind.

When sweet Jacob's mom and I were coordinating for his birthday session, I was beyond happy to see this sweet family again. As the session date came close, I watched the temperatures rising and I had a pit in my stomach when thinking of flushed cheeks and plain misery in the muggy heat.

Just days before the session, I spoke to Jacob's mom and suggested moving the session to a morning time because of the heat. Morning sessions in the spring and summer aren't always the most popular because they start super early for the best light. And, anyone that knows me knows I'm so not a morning person but it was definitely worth it to beat the heat.

This sweet family traveled from north Scottsdale and me from the southeast valley, we met in the middle and I loved it. Even if they may have arrived and thought....wow, that is one tired looking photographer! {giggle}

Here is a glimpse from a sweet 1st birthday session! Which are always an adventure when the baby is a pro at walking!

Enjoy and yes, this family is just as sweet as they are beautiful!

Pictures of moms and their babies are always a huge favorite of mine! The picture below tops my favorite list...I just love the connection!

1 year old sessions always have outtakes that make me laugh! This one was a favorite!
You also might recognize this family from a newborn session last year! The pictures from that session were a favorite of mine. This family is very sweet and I love the love between them all!

Late post | Tempe Family Photographer

2011-06-23T20:45:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure that I have a good half a dozen sessions that have yet to be blogged. Not that the sessions unblogged weren't good, it's just they happened during a very busy time of the year....the fall season.

I think this session I'm posting is one of them. And, it makes me sad because I love this family for a number of reasons.

Before I write more, not only am I blessed to photograph families as they grow....but that I have a relationship with each of my clients I see each year. I get to know them on more than a client level but on a personal level. Which, for me, is important to make sure I get the pictures that really capture who the family is and each of their personalities.

When I think about it, I first met this family 3 years ago when their oldest daughter, Anna, was celebrating her 2nd birthday. And, the session was in the middle of an Arizona summer.

For sessions, I'll use candy as an extra encourager for the little shy ones. At the end of the session, Anna's mom then shared with me that she was a pediatric dentist. Um yeah, I wanted to choke down that candy right then and there.

I swear, I felt really akward at that moment....not sure why though. I know it's because she's a dentist and I guess I felt like I was busted by the school principal or something. Right then, I tried to back peddle and probably looked like an idiot but of course, Anna's mom didn't mind...it was just me being weird. Which still makes me laugh.

A year later, I was bringing my daughter's to her for a cleaning. I then fell in love with my client as not only a great mom and woman but a FABulous pediatric dentist.

This past month, Anna celebrated her 5th birthday. I still can't believe she's 5. Where has the time gone!?!

Happy 5th birthday Anna!

Love Anna's family and loved that I got a sweet moment with her parents.

Here is little sister Cate.

Earlier this summer, I received a message from Cate's mom thanking me for capturing Cate with her special blanket. Not long ago, Cate lost her blanket "booey" and these pictures hold a memory of that special childhood treasure of hers.

And on another note, Anna has a very talented Aunt that creates the most perfect clothes and gifts for kids. Last year, I was in heaven with her super hero cape, adorable kid towels, and shirts. For my twins' birthday she made the cutest 5th birthday shirts for them that I just loved!

If you have a chance, it's a must to take a look at Tiffany Brown's Designs! I love all her stuff but LOVE the towels!

A little bit of hockey |Gilbert Child Photographer

2011-06-21T15:08:00.000-07:00

I smiled big at the chance of photographing this amazing boy in his hockey gear! He started playing hockey a few months ago. He's officially addicted AND absolutely in love with the sport at 7.

Two sweet sisters |Mesa Child Photographer

2011-06-21T14:44:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks back, I had a very sweet and dreamy session with two darling little girls. The last time I saw them was for a newborn session. My, 6 months have passed by very fast.

Everything about this session was uber fun! I enjoyed each minute with these girls!

This past weekend I delivered their prints and when I rang the doorbell, I loved hearing the oldest daughter call out, "It's Ms. Tami!" {sigh} It's the little moments like these that remind me how humbling it is to have fabulous and sweet families to photograph and watch grow.

Love this family & the mommy! |Gilbert Family Photographer

2011-06-16T14:37:00.000-07:00

Over a month ago, I was able to photograph a sweet friend and her kids. A little back side to my sweet friendship is the mommy is also a local photographer. I had heard about her work in the area but we had never met.

The best part is, we didn't meet a photographer get together but at a playdate. Shortly after meeting her, we met up with local photographers and since then, I'm very happy to call her a great friend. My sweet friend, Laura, is nothing but the most sincere, thoughtful and generous girl I know. There is nothing more meaningful then when you meet someone and you just click.

This session is truly special for me for one main reason, my girlfriend was part of the session. When we were chatting about the session, we talked being able to see our children that we photograph all the time through another photographers lens. As parents, there is nothing more beautiful than seeing our children photographed how we see them and rarely are able to capture because they're used to being in front of our camera and bored with us. Our kids know our tricks, they know what we don't like and they know just how to get away from our cameras fast.

During this chat, I also told her I would LOVE to see her be a part of the session, not for long but just enough time for me to photograph her with the ones that make her the happiest. I was thrilled when she agreed to do it.

Just yesterday, I read a blogpost from another photographer about how important pictures are. That they are invaluable memories captured and as a photographer, we often forget to be a part of the pictures. This is so touching for me, because...well...I really DO NOT like being in front of the camera. For one main reason, I'm SO not photogenic! Like, NOT IN ONE LEAST BIT! I'm akward, uncomfortable, worried about my kids and all around no photogenic.

For Easton's newborn session, I had a dear friend, Maggie, tell me she'd be happy to photograph us but I just couldn't bring myself to do it. I felt big, way too tired, and all around not wanting to be in pictures. And now, that is one of my biggest regrets.

A regret I share with each of the new moms I photograph. That even when we feel the least prettiest, do it...because in 5 years, you won't look at the pictures and see the flaws that felt so magnified but see that beautiful stage that will never happen again.

I honestly get teary eyed when I think of that fleeting stage when Easton was just born. But, I will say, I'm most thankful that my friend did come and take pictures at the hospital shortly after he arrived. Sure, I look swollen and tired, but I look so in love with my perfect baby boy.

And, after all that rambling, I'm happy to finally show off two very cute and fun kids with their incredibly sweet mommy!

Below is one of my ALL TIME favorite pictures I've taken...EVER! The relationship between these two is one of the most beautiful I've seen. Each time I'm with them, I take it all in and just smile. There isn't a moment between Laura and her kids that she doesn't look at them with utter and complete love.

Even after this sweet session it got better! Minutes after I released the gallery, I received a tear filled phone call from my friend thanking me and telling me that at that moment, she understand how her clients felt when they saw pictures of their family. That was memory that I will forever remember and cherish! When I think about my job, I think....damn, I have THE best job!

I hope each of you have a fabulous weekend! I'm in serious blog catch up mode! I'll be sharing fun sessions with you in the next week.

Baby Sanaiya |Paradise Valley Family Photographer

2011-06-16T11:09:00.000-07:00

Several months ago, I met the very proud mommy to schedule her maternity and newborn session. Within days of her scheduled maternity session, her sweet baby girl decided to arrive a month early. She arrived healthy and absolutely perfect. And, at 5 weeks old...she is just as precious!

I'm pretty sure her parents totally agree with me!

I absolutely love photographing families during the most beautiful time in their life, when they welcome their first baby.

Even though little miss really had us working for the sweet sleepy newborn pictures, I loved being able to see her beautiful brown eyes.

Thank you B family for a great session! I'll be releasing your gallery shortly.

My oldest |Queen Creek Child Photographer

2011-06-10T13:29:00.000-07:00

For weeks, actually months, I've been saying that I need to take each of the girls out on a little date night to do exactly what they would love.

Cashlyn, my girly girl, has been asking me to take her shopping to pick a shirt out that she wants. And let me tell you, she is VERY opinionated about her clothes. It all started when she was 4 when I no longer had an opinion in what she wore or even how her hair is done.

And just when I get frustrated, she'll remind me...

"Mom, remember what you say, as long as I like it that's all the matters!"

And she is right!

Even with her punky Brewster style, I want her to own it and not let others have an opinion with her choices. I want her to celebrate her independence and to love diversity. It was finally time for me to own up to what I preach to my kids.

Different is good! If everyone was the same: looked the same, talked the same and moved the same, the world would be a boring place.

With having twins, it's inevitable that there will be comparisons...I grew up with that with my identical twin sister. But what I love most about my twins, is they not only look different but have two completely different ways of life.

The best way to describe my girls is:

One lives to color within the lines, while the other...

she's curious to see what happens if she colors outside of the lines.

Cashlyn is definitely the one that likes to do right, worries about her brother and sister, is my little shadow, curious with a million questions, my backseat driver (yes, she knows traffic laws), and says she never wants to live away from me. Actually, she wants to buy the house next door to always be near me but will want to eat pizza every night! :)

My Cashlyn!

She gives me a million reasons to smile and to remember to savor every moment because the moments will pass.

She makes me giggle! During her little photoshoot with me, she was very worried about the chance of seeing spiders, getting to close to spider webs, seeing a coyote and getting dirty. Ha, she is so my opposite!

Our entire night out, she was asking and talking with me nonstop! My favorite question asked was, "Mom, why do they want us to go to school alone without parents?"

My heart just melted! That question spelled out to me exactly what I knew had been spinning in her head. She has to understand the what, who, why, when and how of everything.

When I asked her the best part of our time together, she said, "Having you alone with me."

Why? Why do babies have to grow up fast?

Little girls |Mesa Child Photographer

2011-06-09T11:20:00.000-07:00

I had a recent session with two precious little girls that left me remembering how important it is to savor these young years.

Doesn't she look like a little doll? Sweet and precious at 6 months.

This evening, I have a date planned with one of my little girls. Starting with a little photo excursion and then ending the evening with a manicure and pedicure! My girly girl daughter is ready for a little glamour date. Can't WAIT for our evening!

Matteo's 1 |Chandler Child Photographer

2011-06-08T20:24:00.000-07:00

I loved my time getting to know this sweet little guy on his 1st birthday session. He's obviously changed since the first time I met him, check out his newborn sweetness a year ago HERE.

Even during his newborn session, he was wide awake almost the entire time and was easy going...just happy to be taking it all in. And, he's the same at a year old. He was easy going and very mellow. Although, he did make us work for the smiles.

Even between his smiles, my heart melted for this little guy!

Who can resist a sweet little grin?

Loved his little fascination with the random pecans he'd find laying around.

I always encourage parents to bring along items that are super special to include in the pictures. I loved the items Matteo's parents brought. I smiled big when I saw this fun drum. His father bought it for him after he was drumming on random things around the house. LOVE!

Of course, my favorite outtakes from his session! Definitely still not sure about me and holding on tight to him mom! I just so love this one though!
{giggle}
Happy birthday big guy!

Baby Holly |Ahwatukee Baby Photographer

2011-05-18T13:34:00.000-07:00

My most recent newborn session truly tops the top 5 favorite newborn sessions. Not only is this entire family dreamy, but, as I started...let just said for me to do my thing and that they loved everything I did. At that point, the agenda I had for their session flew out the window.

I spent time photographing them....living and loving with little posing and little worries about "right" lighting/settings.

There was constant laughing, kids giggling and running, parents in love with their new baby, smiles and kisses shared with the older kids, parents giggling/shaking their heads at the things said and done by their older kids...just an all around morning of just loving eachother.

I was in heaven. I was on a complete high.

There were several attempts at getting a family picture. It's moments like this that I think, these days will never be like this one. One day, all the kids will sit still, give that fake smile to the camera and think having pictures taken is the most boring thing to do. Right now, it's all fun and that is was needs to be remembered.

Big sister! And definitely the most witiest 4 year old I know.
What a typical brother and sister moment!
These two were the cutest horsing around together and I loved it. Imagine this while both are giggling as loud as they could.
Then a second later, hugs and kisses.
Big brother Luke.

It's always a favorite to include the first baby in the family pictures. Elvis is their biggest baby that was a rescue dog and is the sweetest.
Of course, just a picture that made me giggle.
Everything about this session was dreamy and I'm about to release the final gallery to the family. I'm on pins and needles to share it with them. The best part of their session was just when I was in my groove taking pictures, I'd turn to find the father video taping me photographing the kids. I think I'm a bit scared to see that film. I know how I am when I photograph kids and I'm pretty sure I don't want that on film. {giggle}

Happy 2nd Birthday Tessa |Gilbert Child Photographer

2011-05-14T05:42:00.000-07:00

The biggest perk to my job is watching little ones grow up!

I first photographed sweet Tessa when she celebrated her 1st birthday! A year later I photographed her for her 2nd birthday.

She couldn't be any cuter at 2 years old, with the sweetest personality.

I was uber happy when her mother brought along a very special dress made by an aunt. The exact dress Tessa's mother wore when she was little.

My BIG girls |Chandler Child Photographer

2011-05-03T14:36:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago, I finally had the opportunity to photograph my girls for their 5th birthday celebration.

There honestly isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of how lucky I am to have two precious, sweet and generous little girls. My husband and I struggled for way too long to have a baby. The days and nights before we found out we were expecting them, were painful...no other word to describe BUT painful.

Shortly after we were married, we found out we were expecting our first baby. This pregnancy was a total surprise and shock. But, non the less, we were thrilled. A month after finding out were were expecting....on January 1st, 2004, we miscarried.

Our hearts, spirits and souls were crushed. We instantly felt a sense of emptiness. Our hearts were lonely and we missed the baby that we fell in love with the moment we discovered we were expecting. Shortly after the miscarriage, we went over a year of feeling like failures at trying to have a baby.

It was official...we were an infertile couple.

Of course, I know now that infertility is common. But, telling that to a woman that felt like she was only one in her city that couldn't have a baby was like telling the wind to not blow. I grew up dreaming of having children....crazy, but I wanted 10 kids! There were two things I knew I wanted when I grew up...and that was to be a mom and a special ed teacher. Then, for me to not be able to have children was gutwrenching, heartbreaking and literally had me in a depression.

While that was a very difficult time for me, I am never NOT thankful for the wonderful friends and family I had that supported me, listened to me cry, tolerated my horomonal crazies from all the fertility meds I was taking and just being there when I needed to be next to someone.

But I will say....even during that time, there were some people that I literally wanted to backhand with the complete and utterly stupid advice they gave. For example, a girl I worked with told me "to just stop trying and that'll be the time I get pregnant." Um...yep, that was about the time I wanted to fly across a school table and tackle her to the ground. I know...brutal thought, but that was one thing anyone should never tell a woman struggling to get pregnant.

As a woman, I was consumed with the thought of starting my family and enjoying the gift I felt God had intended for me.

After a year of failing on fertility drugs, my husband and I decided to go to a fertility specialist. My doctor visits started, or as I like to think of it as....poking and proding began. After a few visits with our doctor and reviewing his test results, we decided to start the process for an IVF procedure. Anyone that has done IVF knows that means....a HUGE costly expense and enduring months of painful injections. While my husband and I were prepared to go down the IVF road, we also started a process that was an insurance type program in case we failed at IVF.

To do the IVF insurance program, we had to go through a series of tests. During one of the testing phases, our doctor asked if we'd be interested in an IUI (intra-uterine insemination) treatment. When we heard the cost of the treatment, $700 + meds, we thought...why not? $700 was a penny in the bucket compared to the $17,000 cost we were facing with IVF. IT was that IUI treatment that gave us our beautiful, precious baby girls.

I still remember the day we discovered we were expecting. I still start crying remembering that moment. That was one of the happiest moments of my life. For the next 9 months, our anticipation built to finally welcome our baby girls into our arms.

And here they are today, 5 years old and have completely surpassed every dream and wish we ever had.

Even during their sassiest of days, I remember how thankful I am to have them and what we went through to enjoy these sassy days.

It's taken us a while to talk openly about our battle with fertility. But for us, it's no longer a secret. It's our story. And, when we hear of others that are struggling with having a baby, our hearts break for them as we remember those days like they were yesterday. We remember each painful tear cried and each moment we felt like we were broken.

So now, all I ask is that if you know of someone struggling to have a baby...

let them have their time to be silent, let them cry on your shoulder, ask them how they're doing, and know at that moment, they feel incomplete with a lonely heart.

To those out there that struggle with having children, just have faith.

During my struggle to get pregnant, and the crying mess I was, two girlfriends gave me a Tiffany's cross necklace for me to wear and always remember to have faith. IT was faith that got me through those days. Renae and Lacey....I love you girls more than you'll ever know for that gift.

Now...after that long emotional rambling, here are my baby girls a couple months after they turned 5.

Lastly, I'm now okay with knowing I'll never experience that moment I find out I'm pregnant by missing my monthly visitor (wink wink) , that's just not going to be part of my life, but having 3 amazing children makes not having that experience okay with me. Not being able to get pregnant on my own gave me lessons that I needed to be who I am today.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

And, one last note...in January I found the perfect dress for this photo shoot and the cutest leggings to go with it. After a ongoing exchange with the dress designer, the dresses arrived and I just wasn't impressed...the dress definitely wasn't what I recalled seeing and ordering. But, I just dealt with it. The day of the session, I tried the dress on one of my girls and it was just not good (to put it mildly). I called my girlfriend in a panic while looking online and constantly calling the Gap store for clothes. Just before the session, I drove to Gap and pulled a few items together. Thankfully, my super amazing friend helped me complete their outfits and I'm happy in the end with what we pulled together in a couple hours.

The only left to do now is have a fun little shoot with my girls in the adorable leggings from Finley & Oliver. Which, of course I have to add....Grace, Finley & Oliver designer, is amazing. She's stellar in creating gorgeous, unique clothing and sheer perfection in client communicating. If you have a chance, look through her shop and grab an item or two...you won't be disappointed.

And, of course...thanks for reading through my ramblings and getting to know me a bit more on the personal side.

Hugs to you all!

A little bit more |Chandler Baby Photographer

2011-05-02T13:29:00.000-07:00

I has such a great time photographing this little sweet baby girl. My favorite part was including books that were personal treasures of her mother's.

My heart just melted when this one was captured...love her squishy cheeks and precious dimples.

Little miss tried and tried to have fun on the blanket, but she really wasn't a fan of the country feel of the grass. Once she discovered the bucket, there was no way getting her out of it. Which was a total bonus to capturing her pure sweetness and smiles.

{update}

Again, my jaw is dropped with how fast time is passing. May is here and my month is jammed packed full with sessions and a trip to California for my twin sister's graduation.

I can't believe I'm thinking about this already, before I know it the busy holiday portrait season will be here. I know it's hard to think about holiday pictures, but if you're wanting to schedule a session this fall with me...I'm going to start a waiting list for contacting those interested once I open my fall calendar.

As always, I'll be scheduling mini session dates and full session dates. Please keep in mind, mini sessions are best for getting that updated picture of your darlings or family...but it's not as extensive as a full session. Mini session dates go FAST. These past two years my fall calendar has been booked by the start of September.

Lastly, if you've been following my blog since last summer...you might remember my little emotional breakdown when my twins' started preschool. At the end of July, they'll be starting kindergarten. So far...I'm doing good but, I wouldn't be shocked if another week long of days filled with tears come. June and July have a few session dates left available....email me if you're interested in one of them before I close my summer calendar.

Baseball anyone! |Queen Creek Family Photographer

2011-04-28T09:25:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week, we enjoyed a great afternoon playing a little toddler baseball!

It's these kind of moments that I want to remember forever!

Ha...this is so my little two! One covering the tee and the other hiding the ball, both certain to not let the other have a turn! :)

Totally uber and perfect moments with my kids.

Just yesterday Easton had a little battle with a ground level trampoline...and he lost. Seeing these pictures just makes me want my little guy to feel better again and be able to run around. For now, we're just trying to keep the pain more managable and him off his feet. Which, right now isn't that hard since his leg hurts so bad that he doesn't want to even move.

We're praying for a fast recovery!

Meet Chelsea |Queen Creek Senior Photographer

2011-04-26T16:57:00.000-07:00

3 years ago I first photographed this young lady who is now graduating from high school.

Even 3 years ago, her personality was so contagious and I just fell in love with her.

When she contacted me asking for me to take her senior pictures...on my already booked schedule...I managed to find a way to squeeze her in! This young lady is amazing! She's super sweet and an all around great girl.

When she first came over when she scheduled her session, my mind started spinning on location ideas....loved that she gave me full control over the location. I suggested a place that she sees a lot...and, even though she wasn't giddy about the location, she completely trusted me. We ended up both being in love with the location.

It's one thing to see a location as a photoshoot option...but another to completely trust another's choice. I love that she decided on a location that was "outside" of the obvious location options.

Now...meet sweet Chelsea! She is never short on smiles, giggles and just a simple happy girl.

She totally had me giggling as she lugged around her VERY heavy saddle! It totally impressed this city girl.

Bucket Baby | Chandler Baby Photographer

2011-04-21T20:38:00.000-07:00

There is nothing more precious than a chubby baby.

By the end of the session, her family kept calling her the bucket baby...she literally didn't want to get out, so we worked around her love for this bucket. I think the Easter bunny might be bringing her one.

Family fun |Gilbert Family Photographer

2011-04-19T13:55:00.000-07:00

Any type of session with a 1 year old, means non-stop activity. There's always tons of running, goofy sounds from me and the family hoping the child will stop for a second, and just good old fashion fun toddler photography.

I met with this family before their session for coffee, during our coffee chat I knew we were a match for eachother when the parents shared they loved the "in the moment" pictures.

That is just the perfect attitude to have with active children. Besides, there isn't a better memory of an active little one than pictures capturing just that.

This session was nothing but fun and laughing!

I have a super sweet spot for moms and they baby boy. I loved that I got a little time capturing them together.

And even happier that I caught the second he sat and just chilled with her.

Happy Tuesday everyone!

Just one peek! |Chandler Family Photographer

2011-04-17T15:50:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was a tough day for me. It actually started out great...the kids and I grabbed donuts, coffee and had a little playdate with their good friends.

As the day went on, my kids began melting down. With a soccer game smack dab in the middle of a VERY warm Arizona day (should be illegal in my opinion) and my 2 year old missing his much needed daily nap. I'll spare you the little details in between, just trust me it was one of those least favorite days.

Any other day is much easier, but this weekend, my husband was out of town. I was flying completely solo in the parenting/3 ring circus department and my fuse was definitely running out.

During all the craziness in the day, I couldn't help but keep thinking about a session for that evening. Not just any session, but an extended family session where I was getting excited for. This session was booked months in advance, and my anticipation was building.

The session was perfect, except for the ants that kept making their way up my jeans.

The one big perk of my job is getting to know people. Getting to know their stories, where they came from, how they met and what they just love about eachother. I love hearing families laugh, talk and just find themselves being okay in the silence of eachother. Families are beautiful...simply beautiful.

And, of course, I'm that photographer that talks just about the entire session with my million questions.

But, I'm also that photographer whose heart melts when I capture moments like this.

Thanks G family! Yesterday was too much fun! I hope you enjoy this moment captured as much as I do!

Sweet R-man! |Queen Creek Child Photographer

2011-04-13T10:16:00.000-07:00

This little guy...who looks incredibly old in these pictures...has been a best friend to my

twins since they were born.

His parents are very good friends of ours. A friendship doesn't get much better.

Our three kids were born on the same day and same hospital.

I just love these three together!

Just another one of R's silly faces...which always cracks me up! Love that we photographed him next to one of his grandfather's biggest treasures!

Happy Birthday to you big boy!

My big girl!

2011-04-08T09:19:00.000-07:00

My baby girl is not a big girl!

I don't think I could ever get tired of seeing her toothless grin!

My absolutey favorite stage to photograph. In the next week I'll be photographing my girls for their 5th birthday.

I. Can't. Wait.

What's that? |Queen Creek Child Photographer

2011-04-06T10:21:00.000-07:00

I had a great session with this little guy, along with his sister and brother.

He had us all laughing when he'd find a bug or cobweb. The best part was when he was trying to blow it away.

He is definitely a sweet little guy.

THIS is what I do during my days |Queen Creek Family Photographer

2011-04-01T17:53:00.000-07:00

Since January, I've been a little absent from my blog...just taking time to enjoy the days with my kids!

It's officially April...and we are soaking up the sun! It's just a bit too hot for me...I'm a little scared for the summer.

Loved this little moment with Camryn today!

The kids were surprised with a face painting at their favorite restaurant today!

One more perk since last summer, is being able to be a larger part in my friend's life.

Even better that she's a part of my kid's life!

She's honestly the most selfless friend I know.

And yes, that is Cashlyn's outfit of choice! She's all about picking her own clothes lately....just one battle I'm not ready to fight! I do want her to love what she picks, no matter what other's think! She definitely has her own style!

LOVE this picture! Which is so typical of Easton when I want a picture with him. He's already at the stage where he sees my camera and runs.

Every now and again, he gives me a little moment and my heart melts!

*****edited to add: notice the missing part on Easton's right eyebrow....yep, he shaved that part off. I swear, that kid scares me. No matter how out of reach I put things, he finds a way!*****

Happy April everyone!

Meet Jordan...class of 2011 |Gilbert Senior Photographer

2011-03-31T08:24:00.000-07:00

I had a great time photographing the super styling senior Jordan!

Not only did Jordan know the exact style of clothes she wanted for her session...she was fabulous with layering... she was also definitely camera ready!

Family full of sweetness |Gilbert Family Photographer

2011-03-30T13:34:00.001-07:00

About a month ago, I was happy to have time to not only photograph a very sweet family...but to really get to know each of them!

A peek from a past session |Tempe Child Photographer

2011-03-28T15:37:00.000-07:00

These past couple weeks, my house has been taken over by the horrible flu season. Since last week, Easton and Camryn have had the stomach flu and a high fever. I wish it was just the 24 hour flu type...unfortunately, it was more like 4 days of misery for my babys. Also, why must the flu make it's debut in the middle of the night? Why?

Needless to say, I'm very behind in my housework and work. I'm now crossing my fingers the rest of us survive.

My blog is about to get really busy with me sharing a few of the past sessions that deserve some blogging goodness.

Here are the two sweetest sisters. I loved visiting with them during their vacation here from New York...like I wrote before. It was a joy seeing how much they've changed since their visit here last year.

Yep...I know! These girls are pure sweetness!
-----------------------------------------------------------------In the next day, I'll be setting off a disinfecting bomb in my house. If you see a big cloud of mist in the southeast valley...THAT would be me!

Meet Kylee |Gilbert Senior Photographer

2011-03-23T09:58:00.000-07:00

It's springtime...which also means senior portrait season!

This week I had my first senior session with a girl that I love as much as my own children. I've known her for 10 years...I actually began learning photography with her. I've photographed her as a sweet little girl, I remember the sassiness in sessions during her tween years and now, she is nothing but sheer sweetness!

My sweet Kylee...all grown up and ready to graduate from high school.

Real life! |Scottsdale Family Photographer

2011-03-15T13:17:00.000-07:00

Each session has me leaving happy. This session tops the list as it was filled with nothing but embracing kids in a family with their new baby brother.

Sweet baby Zane was 3 weeks old for his session. That a bit older for the ideal newborn session, but he was nothing but dreamy. I loved capturing this little moment just when he started getting hungry...but never made a sound.

A session is always energizing when a 2 year olds involved! This little guy was all about having fun...despite not feeling too good during the session.

Total heart melting, even with Zane missing a shoe.
My ultra favorite from this session!
To the R family....thank you for welcoming me into your home. Getting to know each of you had me smiling all day.
R

Two very sweet girls |Gilbert Child Photographer

2011-03-14T22:38:00.000-07:00

I'd like to think these little girls made a trip from New York to just have a visit with me, but the truth is their visiting family in town. I'm just happy I was able to see these sweet girls again...while a year doesn't seem that long, these girls have change so much.

Sweet little baby M was just a few weeks old the last time I photographed her. And here she is, one very cute little cherub with the sweetest disposition.

Total dreaminess below! Deciding on color vs. black and white was not easy. I know...how can you not love that red hair with a touch of curl.

All fun! |Gilbert Family Photographer

2011-03-14T21:11:00.000-07:00

I'm breaking a little rule tonight...giving just a little peek from the fun I'm having while processing a session from this weekend!

I couldn't be happier to have a little time getting to know the family of a friend from high school! I love this family of 3! This family session was nothing but fun and relaxed...the complete recipe for a session with a little guy just over a year old.

Now, off to release 2 galleries.

Two sweet boys! |Paradise Valley Family Photographer

2011-03-03T12:57:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago from during a crazy stormy weekend, I had a dreamy newborn session.

Even with the weather being yucky...I had a great time with this cute family.

I first met the big brother, Max, less than a year ago...and he and I have been friends since. This little guy was great during his session and was amazing in keeping me company when I was photographing his brother.

She was an absolutely stunning mother. Just glowing and completely in love being a mother to two little boys.

This little guy has topped my list of cutest babies photographed. He was full of chubby goodness and I just couldn't get enough of him. He was absolutely squishably cute.

I know...precious as can be!
Sweet and chunky at 2 weeks old...total dreaminess!

And, this last one is definitely a favorite picture from the session.
Next up:

another sweet 3 week old newborn boy!

My Baby Boy!

2011-03-02T09:11:00.000-08:00

Last week our house was hit with the nasty germs that every kid seems to be battling with! No matter how hard I try to keep hands washed, we always catch something.

My little boy is just now getting over the cold. Last night was the first night he slept sound throughout the night.

Seeing him wake up with smiles made me happy!

I just love his sleepy eye smile!

After a week full of sick kids and getting little to no work done so I could take care of my babies...I'm finally able to tackle my long "to do" list.

The first thing on the list to do is setting off a Lysol bomb to disinfect every nook and cranny!

Happy disinfecting!

Soaking it all up!

2011-02-23T11:27:00.000-08:00

Wow, I can't believe it's been over two weeks since I posted on my blog last. Wow...I honestly never thought I'd see the day that I'd go more than a day without posting. I giggle when I think of how I was so addicted to blogging every single day.

Do I miss the blogging? Yep...it was a huge outlet for me.

Unfortunately, when I started noticing my marriage and children suffer from my workaholic ways...I quickly took a step back and had a reality check.

My committment to spending more time with my family in 2011 has taken off perfectly and even better, I'm actually keeping to it.

But, I'll be honest, the past two weeks my spring schedule has been jam packed. And, I think..wow, there isn't anything I'm more thankful for.

Thankful for being able to finally find a way for my work and family life to merge, and me keeping my sanity. The trick to finding the secret was learning to say no more, and having to be okay with it.

On that note, my days and nights are filling up with more of little moments I want to savor. The moments I keep thinking will be gone when they begin school.

Did I soak up all these moments as much as I could the past five years? I'm not sure. I really don't think I took advantage of each moment. And, I'm not about to have that regret in the days and weeks leading up to the girls starting Kindergarten. Nope! NO WAY! Not going to miss one more moment.

This week Camryn is Star Student in her preschool class. One of the perks in being Star Student is going to bring home the class pet, Mikey. Stuffed animals are Camryn's favorite toys! ALL time favorite!

Mikey has received the royal treatment as we left school. Including getting belted into the car seat with her.

Camryn makes me happy. She makes me smile. If I could bottle up anything, it would be her carefree happiness and seeing everything in the world as harmless.

Right after lunch, Mikey went down for his nap. What you can't see is he's sleeping in her Jasmine shoe. :)
I'm hoping to not make my next blog debut sooner than later! For now, I'm soaking up moments with my baby but hope to share more moments with you soon too.

{update}

I'm horrible with keeping secrets! I just can't resist...my blog will be getting a HUGE facelift soon. {giggle}