marissa [d] photography

Bear with me...

2012-01-24T00:19:00.000-08:00

I have lots to say...but for now just hang on!!
I am making so many changes around here and really want to complete everything before I do a sneak peak/huge post thingy.

And for good measure - a fun picture. Because what's a post without a picture??

YAY!

2011-10-28T14:58:00.000-07:00

Woohoo! My image made it in the top ten!

Check out the other amazing winners HERE

I heart faces - "Let them be little"

2011-10-24T15:10:00.000-07:00

The theme for this week is "let them be little." I immediately thought of this image of my sweet daughter. She's not one to hold still, in fact the wheels were turning...she was looking for another place to run! I love that she's squeezing her bear - she loves stuffed animals!

Go check out the other fabulous entries HERE.

Massey family

2011-09-14T22:18:00.000-07:00

I gave a teaser of this sweet lil' family a couple weeks ago.

I want to post more! They are just so cute!

And soooo happy.

These girls are just darling. And I think these images really represent their personalities. :)

I'm a firm believer that every mom should have a fabulous picture of themselves...

whether they want to do it or not!

Jessica is just beautiful - inside and out.

What kid doesn't love suckers??

It was windy, but we didn't let that bother us.

Thanks Massey family!

I heart faces | white

2011-08-30T11:11:00.000-07:00

As a mommy myself, I love to preserve all the details about kids...their whispy hair, their eyelashes, their not-saying-cheeeeeeese smile...

Because they just grow up so fast!

Go check out more I heart faces entries HERE.

I heart faces - beautiful eyes

2011-08-16T11:58:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's because I have a little baby around the house...

Maybe because this is a close friend...this is one of my all time favorites.

Her eyes are beautiful because of the way she is looking at her son.

Go check out the other awesome entries HERE.

Sassy

2011-08-07T15:46:00.000-07:00

Sassy is the theme over at Evoking You.

Meet Miss Sassy herself.

(Picture me directing my daughter on what to do...)

(Picture Sarah wanting to do what she wants)

"MOM!!!"

Go check out some of the other fun ones HERE.

Hooray for babies!

2011-07-22T22:27:00.000-07:00

Babies, babies, babies!

July has been the month for babies.

I loved shooting this newborn session.

I tried to do things a little different this time. I really wanted to capture the feeling of having a precious new soul in the home.

This is one of my favorite series. EVER.

Baby Ethan just knows that's his daddy.

So content and peaceful. Such a sweet baby for a sweet family.

[peace out]

~A touch of Whimsy~

2011-07-13T20:11:00.000-07:00

Look at this little dollface.

I've never really done anything this whimsical before...wings and everything.

But I love how her mom styled it - such an adorable outfit!

I love these next few...

If you know my daughter, you know she usually carries around a Tigger.

In fact, now every time I see a Tigger, I think of my Sarah.

Sweet "E" is the same with her Curious George. Once Curious George came to our session (behind the camera) she was smiling and perfectly comfortable.

Like I wasn't there at all...

[peace out]

Documenting Life

2011-07-12T23:04:00.000-07:00

Breaking up the blog silence!

I have much to share, and hope you will all bear with me!

These images just make my heart soar. I love the emotion and the interacting between siblings.

I have read several articles lately about capturing life. As photographers, it's not always about dressing the best and posing the best. Sometimes it's just as important to document real life.

There was a time when I wasn't sure I wanted to take pictures of my family.

I know several photogs that won't. They refer them out...

But I have recently felt an urgency to do just that. Capture the people I love the most.

I started with my grandparents (Maybe I'll share them someday? Very personal pictures)

My brother's babies...my sister's family...

I have been trying to get my parents for a while. They finally agreed.

And I am SO glad they did. I had funny memories in my arsenal in case there were any akward moments where they didn't know what to do, and I didn't know what to tell them...that didn't happen at ALL!

If anything, I think they felt comfortable because it was "just Marissa."

I was able to really capture who they are.

I love these...mostly because it's my parents being real, not because I took them. We printed a large one of the image above and it hangs in their home. I never get tired of looking at it, because it's them...being them.

I am even getting to the point where I want more pictures of me with the girls.
(Which is very difficult-hard to be on the other side of the camera)
Who cares if I have 20 lbs of post baby weight to lose (ok...25)?
I want those memories frozen in pictures.

[Peace out]

I heart faces photo challenge

2011-05-31T14:41:00.000-07:00

I haven't entered one of these in a while...
We are supposed to enter our favorite for May.
That was so tough! I had so many amazing people in front of me this month!

I just love this image of Britley from a recent senior shoot.
She truly is as beautiful on the inside as she is on the out.
Her mother told me as a girl she used to play with her ears, and this is how we incorporated it!

Go over and check out the other lovely entries!

Beatiful Baby Bump

2011-04-12T09:58:00.000-07:00

Isn't she lovely?

Baby Boy is on his way...

Sure to be handsome, just look at his parents!

We had fun downtown. This was before the weather turned back to winter. LOL!

Oh wait, now it's Spring again. Make up your mind Las Vegas!

Lovin' the vibe in these next images.

Color!!

Leopard shoes!

Electric guitar!

Aaaaaaand...I end with my favorite pose.

This "love" pose always ends up being one of my favorites. Too bad if your sick of seing it! LOL!

Wives/girlfriends always look happiest on their significant others' shoulder.

Thanks for looking!!

Peace out.

One of my favorite subjects

2011-04-05T23:55:00.001-07:00

I love adoption. Everything about it is a miracle.

This adorable couple is looking for their miracle.

During our session, they were so at ease with each other and you can tell they are so in love.

When I was working on their images, I really wanted a bright and sunny feel to them...because I really feel that suits their personalities.

If you know someone who may be considering placing a child for adoption, please send them to Matt and Katie's adoption profile! Let's help them get the word out!

TWINNERS

2011-03-23T13:41:00.000-07:00

Drum Roll please...

The moment we have all been waiting for...

Presenting Nash and Ivy!

These babies are my little niece and nephew. Aren't they just adorable?

I've been so ecstatic...I was best friends with my cousin growing up.

My sweet Jane will have cousins (on both sides!) that she can be buddies with.

Nash totally has this thing with his hands...too cute. I just llluuuuurve the newborn peach fuzz too.

It's crazy to think that even now (they were born Feb. 5th), they don't weigh as much as my baby Jane weighed at birth!

Sweet Ivy girl...what a doll!

OHHHH...I see Grandma Ogden right there!

This was fun for me to put together...

I don't do very much of the "vintage" look, but I thought I would take it all the way with the Poloroids.

What do you think? I am pretty stoked about how it turned out. Especially because I designed it! ;)

Thanks for looking!

[Peace out.]

Sweetie Pie

2011-03-22T23:24:00.000-07:00

I've had the glorious opportunity to capture some really sweetie pies recently.

I can usually gauge when a child is done...typically it's about 45 minutes into a session.

I could have taken pictures of this sweetie all day. So mild mannered and expressive.

We went out on a cloudy day...then all of a sudden...

The sun came out!...and so did this incredible smile!

And yes...my favorite blue wall at my favorite place. ;)

AND the best part? I get to see him again really soon for a family session! YAY!

Thanks for looking!

[Peace out.]

Alex

2011-03-15T00:39:00.000-07:00

"You want to take him...over there?"

Yes! It will be awesome!

Reminds me of New York City with the urban landscape and the awesome 3 piece suit.

Yes...Alex knows how to rock a 3 piece suit.

Whatever you do...don't smile. LOL! We tried hard to get him to laugh...

he loosened up later. It was the suit that made him so fabulously GQ.

What senior doesn't love their Ipod?

Rockin' out with the Ipod...AIR GUITAR!

We had this awesome sunset...they were all laughing at me because I was getting SO crazy excited about the gorgeous sky. AWESOME time at this session!

Fun in the desert and other ramblings

2011-03-02T00:54:00.000-08:00

Last week one of the hugest trade shows for photographers came to Las Vegas.

Talk about intimidating! I really wanted to go see what all the fuss was about, so I dragged my friend Joani with me. (thanks Joani!!)

We attended this great workshop by Stephen Knuth and Dan Fields on Off-Camera Lighting.

Got to play with some fun, new (to me) equipment. Yeah...the "gear" list keeps getting longer and longer. Ha! Ha!

As I put on Facebook...I did a "cool" black and white conversion to kind of fit the mood.

Maybe it's because I know how cold she really was!

This cute couple (she is a photographer also) braved the cold for us too.

Man! Once that sun went down, it was so dang cold! It gets a little difficult to turn dials and push buttons when your fingers feel like they are crystalizing. LOL!

But! That didn't stop us from shooting away.

I just love their style.

This last one was taken mostly with natural light. Once it gets dark, your camera can't focus well on the subject...so there's a built-in sort of flash light on the beauty dish Alien Bees thingy

(that's the technical term). That's what is lighting the couple.

So...I obviously can't offer this type of session for children. They run around too much!!

However, I will start offering some "high contrast" sessions like this.

I am really torn. I LOVE the dramatic effects you can get with this.

But, my heart belongs to natural light. (maybe because that's what I know best at this point)

I love photography more than ever. I think I really love it because I love to learn...and with photography I feel like ther is ALWAYS more to learn.

I think it's really fun/cute/entertaining when blog authors have some kind of closing line at the end of their post. Let's you know they are done, and it becomes their "signature" in a sense.

Tell me what I should use! Let's vote...

Peace out.

(I really use that. Ask Marylin. She uses it too, but adds a "yo" at the end)

Word.

And here's what's happening in your neck of the woods.

Oh wait. That's Al Roker's.

Suggestions? C'mon. A little help from those creative-wordy peeps?

Beautiful lady...

2011-02-19T00:37:00.000-08:00

Gosh! Can you even imagine what their little boy will look like?!

[Color or black and white?? Couldn't decide...so you get 'em both!]

I am so excited about how these turned out!!

Little bit o' this...little bit o' that

Some off-camera flash...some natural light...

Seriously. Misty. You should be a maternity model.

Or just any kind of model.

Misty decided on boy-ish train tracks for her photo session...

but I just happened upon this awesome parking garage too.

I mean, c'mon.

She is seriously rocking the preggo-ness.

Thank you Misty and BJ for a windy, yet fun-filled session.

Love at home

2011-01-25T14:46:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful family this is!

I've had the fabulous opportunity to photograph them for 3 years!

You can imagine my delight when they asked me again...

They are such beautiful people inside and out.

This lovely lady...I used to serve with her in church in the Relief Society.

Now I get to do it again with Young Women. YAY!

Her awesome hubby is our bishop too.

I just think the world of them!

Countless hours of helping others...

Thank you Norr family for a lovely day!

What do I wear?

2011-01-10T21:49:00.000-08:00

I am totally addicted to the show "What Not to Wear" on TLC. Yes, there are days when perhaps I should be the one on there...but I love it anyway. While it would be nice to have Stacey and Clinton as a personal stylist, we don't have that luxury, do we.

I honestly believe that how your session is styled makes all the difference!!

This cute family is another example of how to do it RIGHT!

They picked several colors, then chose outfits for everyone in those colors. AND as an added bonus (in my humble opinion) they are bold colors. Yay Harlow family!

This session was one of my last sessions before taking maternity leave...

I just had to post them as an example.

Aren't they handsome?!? Those eyes are killin' me!

I am excited to get back into the swing of things...

I have been shooting for myself and doing some creative soul searching.

Can't wait to share what I've learned!

Change {be ready for random thoughts}

2010-12-31T00:40:00.000-08:00

I am a person who likes change.

I like this time of year where we all resolve to better and reflect on the previous year.

I want to be better.

In. all. aspects. of. my. life.

Wife, mother, daughter, friend

photographer

Indulge me a moment...

(yes, I realize these pictures don't go with what I'm talking about...no, I don't care LOL!)

Another theme for this year for me is consistency.

Again...I think this is a far reaching goal.

Consistency in:

disciplining

relationships

post-processing images

rapport with clients

blogging

an exercise regiment (that has been non-existent for too long!)

staying true to who I am

So...what's the point?

There will be some biz-nass changes.

So excited! Watch for blog changes, website changes, etc.

YAY for change!

Here's to 2011!

Practice

2010-12-28T21:27:00.000-08:00

When I was taking piano lessons as a girl, my piano teacher would always say as I was leaving,

"Practice! Practice! Practice!" (picture her shaking her finger too)

I am taking this family time to brush up on my skills and learn some new tricks.

It's given me a new excitement for photography in general...I LOVE learning new things.

I am now experimenting with Off-camera flash...I love so many things about this technique!

I have SO much to learn about it, but I am having fun in the meantime.

Couldn't decide...color, or black and white?

I am grateful for a willing niece to help me learn/practice.
We didn't go anywhere fancy, but I still like the results.

Thanks for looking!
For those that are interested, I am now starting to schedule sessions for Feb/March.
Send me an e-mail marissadphotos@hotmail.com to schedule

Why I've been MIA

2010-12-12T20:40:00.000-08:00

How can I sit at the computer when I have this darling face to look at?..

...and this cute almost 3 year old to chase around?

Awwww...*sisters*

Cupcake Cutie

2010-11-10T00:06:00.000-08:00

Aah! This is my 100th post! I know, it seems silly to point out something like that...but I feel like I should celebrate. What better way to celebrate than with this Little Darling???

Yes - you have seen "J" before. And yes, she looks JUST like her brother from this session. While brainstorming for this adorable session, J's awesome mom mentioned she knows the owner of this fabulous cupcake place called Retro Bakery. Mmmmmm. My favorite. I look for excuses to go on that side of town just so I can get a cupcake. I am in l-o-v-e with their Salted Carmel Crunch cupcake. The owner was so incredibly nice and accomodating!

The ballerina in me just loves this!

Happy 1st Birthday little cupcake cutie!

Catching Up

2010-11-03T20:46:00.000-07:00

I am a little behind with posting, but just had to show some from this awesome family.
I love that his mom thought to bring his baseball glove and ball.

Such a handsome boy!

More fun ones coming soon!
Who can resist a little 1 year old eating cupcakes...?

Drama

2010-10-30T14:25:00.000-07:00

Drama, contrast, beautiful lady...

Being creative with window light can be so much fun!

I know...she's the pregnant and I literally had to tell her to stick out her stomach!

Doesn't she look great!?

This is what happens...

2010-10-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

...when you use the same photographer from the time your child is 6 months old.

I feel like I have watched Ensley grow up!

She is such a fun girl to chase around, and she gives me so many fun expressions!

As always, such a pleasure!

Look at that face! And this cutie pie is going to be a big sister soon!

Double Dose

2010-10-04T13:26:00.000-07:00

Darling family!

Extremely well-behaved 4 year old twin boys.

Gorgeous Momma.

Beautiful morning light.

What more could you ask for?

Well...maybe a little less humidity, but we still had fun!

In the words of Sally Field...

2010-09-29T22:18:00.000-07:00

"You like me! You really like me!"

Oh gosh. I'm afraid I have been fighting it too long.

I actually read an article in a photographer magazine where the "Facebook" Powers That Be

shut down a photographer's personal account because they were posting their work ("advertising") on their profile. Apparently this poor photog has been frozen out of his account and can't seem to track down anyone to un-freeze it.

I guess this is all a really long story to explain that

marissa [d] photography

now has a facebook page.

So hopefully you "like" me.

Both on Facebook and generally speaking.

Ha! Ha!

And...what's a post without a couple of pictures??

(I know - I am WAY behind)

Here's a couple of recents...

Sweet baby girl

2010-09-18T01:07:00.000-07:00

Just had to post a few of these...

Can you tell I'm ready to meet my baby girl? This session made me even more excited. (Is that possible?)

I had the unique opportunity to capture her birth at the hospital. Little {L} is a trooper!

Isn't she gorgeous!?

Let me tell you - she has the cutest nursery!!

Of course, I go ga-ga for black and white damask.

Aww....so adorable.

I have so many sessions that I need to blog!

Some day I will catch up!

Meet Taylor

2010-09-13T18:28:00.000-07:00

Isn't she just absolutely adorable?!? You may have the pleasure of meeting her at your photo session with me. I've known this girl since she was 12, in the church class I used to teach...now look at her!

Ok - so that just made me feel really old.

She has come at just the right time! She is the best pack mule, 2nd opinion, errand runner, reflector holder, water holder, metering person that a photographer could ask for! And believe me, with the belly I have now...I am so glad she's around! She is starting to take some classes and really get into the photography field, and will be coming to several of my future sessions.

Taylor...this is everyone.

Everyone...this is Taylor.

Consider yourselves introduced. ;)

I "heart" faces - Vroom, vroom

2010-09-13T11:45:00.000-07:00

This week's photo challenge for "I heart faces" is to incorporate some type of transportation in the photo...

I love this funky old car that we saw at Nelson.

This also happens to be my nephew...and maybe that's why I love it even more. ;)

Just because

2010-09-01T13:20:00.000-07:00

You all know that I love a clean, colorful, contrasty image...

but sometimes different is good.

Sometimes I want to take creative license and do something "artsy."

Like a soft vingage-y feel with some added texture...

A soft black and white...

...or a funky black and white.

Or really enhance the color for a glamorous look...

Sometimes different is good. ; )

Just one

2010-08-07T13:48:00.000-07:00

Here's a cute little darling...just 7 days old!

Couldn't wait to post this! Will post more soon! ;)

But for now, I'm going on a little vacay for the b-day! Woohoo!

My cup runneth over...

2010-07-29T23:30:00.000-07:00

I feel so blessed to do what I love - be a full-time MOM and a part-time photographer.

I am so looking forward to doing fall sessions, with cooler temps and Christmas pictures...

That being said - I am now booked until after my maternity leave. I will return roughly around February. Still gotta wait and see how I handle two Little Darlings. ;)

Please e-mail me if you would like to be notified of openings:

marissadphotos@hotmail.com

AND...because every post needs some pictures, here are a few of a recent session.

New location, new favorite image

2010-07-28T00:16:00.000-07:00

I love this location. Thanks to Jessi for the suggestion!

I've been trying to mix it up on the boring black and white...this is my new fav.

Their daughter is just a little darling.

Thank you McCall family!

I am *technically* still off for July...but I just had to post! LOL!

Will return next week with more. ;)

September

2010-07-15T14:17:00.000-07:00

Okie dokie...so I have made a final decision about maternity leave. I will be booking sessions through the end of October, then will be taking maternity leave for the holiday season. I will most likely come out of hiding the middle of January.

That being said - Christmas pictures!... I know, I know...it's really early to be thinking about the holidays. But I'm excited! Fall is my absolute favorite season. Just think: soup with bread bowls, Thanksgiving dinner, pie, comfort food, crisp autumn air (ok so maybe not until winter for us).

August and October are BOOKED!

There is still some availability for September...

E-mail me at marissadphotos@hotmail.com if you would like to schedule.

Fun at the orchard

2010-07-15T13:56:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I forget about this lovely orchard in the middle of the desert.

After this last visit, I really want to take my daughter to come pick some fruit and veggies.

These darling girls just LOVED picking pears and taking a little nibble!

It was warm, but we had a fun time!

Thanks Taul family!

Sweet baby "M"

2010-07-13T18:18:00.000-07:00

Isn't this little darling just gorgeous!? Of course, I am completely biased because she is my niece. She was giving me great eye contact for a less-than-2-week old.

Pretty Momma too!

I swear, in this picture, baby "M" looks just like one of her brothers!

We call this one "Deep Thoughts..."

You can totally see the window reflection in her eyes. Too funny!

Awww....sweet bundle of joy.

Makes me so excited for our little girl that's on the way!

Family time

2010-06-25T23:18:00.000-07:00

I had such an enjoyable time with the Matson family!

It was H-O-T hot that evening and these kids were troopers! You would have never known!

Thankfully we were at a beautiful location with some early evening shade.

How adorable are these twins? I mean c'mon. You know you want to reach right through the computer and pinch their cheeks. Go ahead, I won't tell.

I adore family pictures like this. It may not make the cut for being the huge enlargement over the fireplace mantel, but it's a "real" moment. It makes me smile. Just look at Bailey laughing in the middle...

That's how family time should be. ;)

"Nice camera..."

2010-06-23T19:52:00.000-07:00

It's funny to me how people see a picture and say things like, "Wow! You have a really nice camera!"

I smile, say thanks...and in my mind I think, "That's only half of it."

There's so much to learn about ISO, Aperture, and shutter speed (I still have TONS to learn).

Not to mention how you want your style to be enhanced in Photoshop/Post-processing.

My sister gave me permission to make fun of her. We were at a wedding, when she grabbed my camera and turned it on me. My brother gave me a silly side hug and this is the result...

Oh man! My brother looks like he has a really bad bronzer on, and I am practically a ghost!

I guess what I'm trying to say is it takes more than a good camera to take a great picture.

When choosing a photographer, I realize that all of us are budget-concious lately...and that may be your primary reason for choosing that particular photographer. However, choose someone that fits (or even stretches) your budget, AND you like their style. You won't regret it!

Just a couple months ago, I changed my pricing structure...I really sat down and calculated exactly the time I spend on sessions and what I feel I am worth. I also considered costs for training, equipment, taxes...lots to think about! It was a difficult decision to make some drastic changes, but it certainly was necessary.

I feel I have come leaps and bounds from when I first started...

For example (this might get embarassing)

One of my first sessions:

Thank goodness they came back to me recently!

I have learned sooo much... finding the best light, focusing on the eyes,

color/exposure correction (still a work in progress on that one!), getting less pose-y, etc.

This used to be my absolute favorite picture EV-ER. I thought I was the best photographer for getting this one. Where do I start? Composition? Bad photoshop? Poor focus? Chopped hand...etc., etc.

I have new favorites all the time...but this is a recent fav of a baby. I don't do much black and white anymore, so it's hard to compare...but you get the idea.

I always want to keep learning. Hopefully a year from now, I will pick myself apart again. But hopefully not to the extent to where I don't enjoy photography anymore. I am finding it is a fine balance.

FYI

2010-06-09T19:59:00.001-07:00

**Now booking for August**

.blushing.

2010-05-29T22:42:00.000-07:00

Isn't this bride just beautfiul?

I love how she is just gushing right here...

Here are a couple of my favorites from last weekend.

Congrats to the newlyweds!

Where've you been???

2010-05-01T07:19:00.000-07:00

I have SOOO... many fabulous sessions to catch up on! I have met some fun kiddos and great families. I have even had the chance to do sessions with some of my extended family.

There's a really, really, really good excuse for my slacker-ness.

It's a little more challenging to sit at the computer for extended periods of time when you have morning sickness! You heard me right...almost through the first trimester and feeling much better.

I am SO not complaining, just trying to explain!

For now, I will leave you with this little beauty! She has a very special day coming up.

She is adorable and was such a natural in front of the camera!

More to come!

Bad Blogger!

2010-04-01T19:48:00.000-07:00

I promise I have been shooting sessions...just haven't had the time to post them on the good ole blog!

Look at this cute little family...

We lucked out and got some beautiful "spring" in this session. How lovely!

I personally, LOVE this one...cracker, crumbs and all!! Just shows his darling personality.

Preston is such a fun little boy, I just had to catch him to get a picture of him.

Caught him!! Look at those killer eyes too!

Beautiful Spring day, beautiful family...perfect combo.

LaReaux Family

2010-02-24T02:04:00.000-08:00

Hi there! Remember me?
I've had a little break from the holidays, and I'm re-energized with the photog stuff.
I am constantly learning new "tricks," and I am really excited to use them.
Let me know whatcha think!

Meet the Lovely LaReaux family...

Aren't they adorable??

They went to the temple and wanted a session to commemorate the day...

HOWEVER it was totally raining cats and dogs the day they got sealed.

So...we snapped a few with umbrellas and decided to come back.

What a gorgeous day to come back!

Allie was all smiles for me.

(BTW - All the kiddos have these gorgeous eyes)

Matt is the same age as my Little Darling.

Toddlers are a challenge, but sooooo fun to capture!

They just adore their baby sister...

Enjoy your Sneak Peak!

Photography for me

2010-02-23T18:39:00.000-08:00

Every now and then, I feel like I may be getting into a little bit of a rut. That's when I know it's time to shoot for "me." January was great to have a break with my little family... Now I am back in the swing of things! I feel rejuvinated and energized with some new goals for the biz!

Here is a personal outing that helped with that process... Enjoy!

[This is the Las Vegas Temple for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.]

COMING SOON: A sweet lil' family...

I heart faces challenge

2010-01-25T12:17:00.000-08:00

I really enjoyed participating in the "i heart faces challenge" for the first time last week...

I have set a goal to do it more often. I really think it will help stretch me as a photographer and with my editing. These week the challenge is "textures."

I play with textures every now and then, and I love the different looks than can give to images...

Feel free to keave a little love/critique...let me know what you think!

And check out the other awesome submissions by checking out their blog.

iheartfaces.blogspot.com

Photog friends...old and new

2010-01-20T02:16:00.000-08:00

I thoroughly enjoyed having a "creative" and let-loose session with a bunch of friends.

We went with a "Vintage Vegas" theme...
My friend, Marylin (another photographer in Colorado), and I have been thinking/brainstorming about this for a couple weeks. She helped me pick an outfit that was out of my comfort zone when she was in town for the holidays.

I was very excited to practice, relax, and have fun with a great group of ladies (not to mention gorgeous!!)

Joani just started up a photography blog...you may remember her from HERE also.

I mean...seriously!! How beautiful are these girls?

I can assure you too, that they are just as pretty on the inside.

I tried a lot of new things on my post processing...

trying to learn new techniques as much as I can.

Oh Tara with the incredible skin! Wish I could look like that in a close-up!

Thanks for pausing for a minute Cortni!

While I was editing Stephanie's I saw like three people's silhouette in her eyes (a bright orange fleck from one of them). Ha! Ha! So - I decided black and white would probably look better. I think this images lends itself to black and white anyway. ;)

Wanna know somethin' else?? I am lucky enough to go to church every week with some of these gals.

I met Lyndsey there...what a sweetie!

As we were wrapping up, we were shooting in front of a tatoo shop. We really wanted to use their chairs...they were coming to see what the comotion was about. (Think paparazzi - 5 photographers taking pictures of each other in the middle of town) Joani asked them if we could tak pics of them too. I am so glad she did!

They got some fun ones of me too...I will post them soon!

Looking forward to doing it again ladies!

Ringing in the New Year

2010-01-15T22:25:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful family...

I felt as though I was starting the new year right by meeting with these nice people.

Remember the Urbancic family from here and here?

Well - this is their extended family.

It is a joy to have repeat clients, and such fabulous ones at that!!

More of the rest of the family to come! Just wanted to post these little darlings!

I heart faces contest - best face

2010-01-12T18:21:00.000-08:00

I took this picture on New Year's Day for a family session...I was trying to get this little darling to loosen up, so this is the look she gave me when I told her there was a "princess in my camera." Such a cutie pie!

So this is the image I am entering for the "Best Face Photo" Contest on i heart faces. Kinda fun to share in their 1st birthday. I have been a lurker for a while...but was inspired to enter from my friend Brooke (another fabulous photog!!).

On a side note...one of my very, very, very favorite photographers is a guest judge this week too!

Serendipity - Heather & Daniel

2010-01-12T13:09:00.000-08:00

ser.en.dip.i.ty - good fortune; luck

I am so lucky that this charming couple contacted me.

They are just oozing with happiness and love....

We went downtown for this session...

as we were walking around Heather found some chalk art on the cement.

VERY serendipitous that she saw this right where we were walking!

Another interesting fact - as a girl, I went to church with Heather's boss (and his family)
Then I figured out that I used to work with Daniel's sister...
Gosh this world is getting smaller and smaller...Crazy!

They really are adorable aren't they?

Gotta say...totally digging the pearl ring. I LOVE pearls.

If my husband would have let me, I would have named our daughter

Sarah Pearl, not Sarah May

(although now I think Sarah May definitely fits her better and rolls off the tongue)

We were also shooting by where they had their first date - the Stratosphere!

Again... serendipity!

This couple was just meant to be! Even their dating story is serendipitous...

Congratulations on your engagement Heather & Daniel!

Loyalty

2010-01-11T11:35:00.000-08:00

I just adore this cute little family.

You may remember them from here, or here.

Now you know the explanation for the title. ;)

Peek-a-boo!

Sweet Ensley always warms right up to me...such a sweet disposition.

She was such a trooper on this chilly day!

Couldn't decide...black and white? or color?
I'm kinda leaning towards color...

The Gronemans are such a nice family!

I am so glad to have gotten to know them through multiple sessions...

Will be posting Kyla's extended family later this week.

Snips and Snails

2010-01-07T10:32:00.000-08:00

What a sweet little boy. Brand spankin' new baby...

Little baby [D] is just so squishy and adorable!

Oh so sweet.

Awww...I just love little baby rolls...

(not nearly as cute on me - LOL!)

I really wanted to capture his sweet little features...

After all - babies don't stay this little and squishy for very long...

Kung Fu family

2010-01-04T20:22:00.001-08:00

Sometimes I am just in the mood for...different. Sometimes I make people jump just so they can get silly. This group needed no help getting silly. The Mathews kids had me rolling...especially with the "sexy orangutang" pose. I will never forget that one. Anywhoo...once I showed them how they looked jumping, they decided to do a Kung Fu pose. THEN we decided it would be really awesome to do some silly comic strip poses/processing. Why the heck not? I was going to insert a "KA-BOOM" and "POW" cloud, but decided it took away from the actual picture.

Tough superheroes.

Here's the real deal. Isn't it so sweet they did this for their parents for Christmas? You may remember THIS post...they wanted it to be an absolute surprise for them.

BJ is the jokester of the group

Megan

Preston

Mallory

...and my darling cousin who helped that day.

Luv ya JaNae!

Utah peeps should check her out!

Hot-Hot-Hot! Hot Chocolate!

2010-01-01T21:33:00.000-08:00

Good thing we had hot chocolate for this photo session! It was a c-o-o-o-o-old afternoon.

I cannot even handle these eyelashes....what a cutie! Ethan warmed right up to me...
Seriously. They just don't come cuter.
Wanted to take this little red-head home.
It was so funny...Tiegan just wanted to stick his hand in the hot chocolate.

How cute are they? Love their color choices...bet you can't guess why.

Black...green...gray...white...hmmm

Totally goes with my branding. Perfect!

Killer shoes too...

More posts to come...Still catching up. ;)

[insert witty title here] Ha! Ha!

2010-01-01T19:28:00.000-08:00

Makes me smile when I meet clients for their session

and one of them is wearing something like this. These just scream personality! Awww...sisterly love. Don't be fooled - they had a friendly

leaf fight shortly after this. ;)

Thank you Shellie for sending the Rash family my way!

Where the streets have no name

2009-12-31T10:58:00.000-08:00

A Christmas family session...

The Jensens are a GREAT example of how to "coordinate," and not "match."

Again - no secret that I am in love with bold colors.

That is one of the reasons my heart is so happy from this session!

...not to mention they are just awesome people.

I think I *heart* the urban look because of the creative aspect. I had some specific places in mind when we went, but as we were walking arounnd we kept finding more fun places!

This gorgeous girl was another one of my first "official" sessions...

Lucky me!

They were so trusting too! We saw this frame in the road and I thought it was a perfect opportunity for a big, squishy, cheesy, family hug! And look how cute! Even though Ruby wasn't too sure about it, I still like it.

More "catching up" soon...

Merry New Year!

2009-12-31T01:34:00.001-08:00

I have some SERIOUS blogging to catch up on! I will probably be posting every day this week!

I have really been focusing on editing only, to help people have pictures by Christmas and still spend time with my lil' family. I hope you have all enjoyed your holidays...I know I have.

Remember this cute couple? Well they got a baby!! Yay for adoption!

As adoptive couples waiting for a baby, we are encouraged to get "pass along cards" (basically adoption business cards) to put something in people's hands when the ask about our situations.

Dan & Aranne had just printed out a bazillion pass along cards to send in Christmas cards, hand out to friends, etc. They got them in the mail the same day the got the news about Blake!

Oh the irony...

He is absolutely adorable. This little guy just loves his parents too...

Congratulations Urbanic family!

If you know anyone who is on the list (or is trying to get on the list) to adopt a baby, send them my way! I will do a complimentary mini-session to help with their profile pictures.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2009-12-11T00:27:00.000-08:00

I' ve been having so much fun with all these families!
This was a fun session...
How awesome is that car!?
So glad we were able to get the top off...

Hope everyone is enjoying the festivities of the Season!
Coming soon...more families and some hot chocolate!
Thanks for looking!

Norr Sneak Peak

2009-12-07T12:35:00.000-08:00

It's being around families like these...
that gets me soooo excited for my family to come in town for Christmas.
The teasing, the laughing...fun times!
I used Maddy as a focal point to set up another picture,
I ended up really liking this one more than the one I was "setting up" for!!
This little dolly had some of the sparkliest (is that a word??) eyes I have ever seen.

The ones who started it all...Sure had fun walking the streets with this incredible family.
I am lucky that I was able to do a session with them...
but even more lucky that I go to church with them and consider them friends.

Wind

2009-12-05T17:16:00.000-08:00

Yes "wind" is the title to this post.

It was a very windy session...but these guys were troopers!

I love wind - it shows movement and flow.

These families are so beautiful...it was definitely hard to pick and choose which ones to post!

I got some adorable ones of this little guy...

but this one just made me laugh, so I had to post it.

I was distracting him with my lens cap.

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Fabulous Four

2009-12-03T23:26:00.000-08:00

I would love to share some images from this session...

but alas - they are a gift for Christmas.

I feel like I walk away from every session learning something new.

Whether it's learning more about the people I'm working with, or some interesting tidbit...

These guys taught me (reminded me) the importance of having fun.

I laughed so hard that I totally lost track of time. Which was so good for me!

On the subject of gift giving - I have gift certificates available!

If you are interested, just contact me and we can work out the details.

Come back soon! I have more beautiful families to show you!

We are family!

2009-12-02T23:13:00.000-08:00

It's always a little nerve-wracking when I am taking pictures of another photographer's family...
But Joani and all her relatives were so nice. They just acted natural, which is what I love!

Small Sneak-y Peak-y

2009-12-01T19:01:00.000-08:00

What's better than having all of your grandkids around for Thanksgiving??...

...Having all of your grandkids play with some adorable puppies.

Can't decide if I like the color or "chocolate" one better. What do you think??

Ghost town fun

2009-12-01T12:21:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy couple of weeks...but it's been a very FUN couple of weeks.

I am so behind on my blogging!!
So here's a sneak peak of one of my favorite families
(the handsome guy on the left is my big bro.)Crew-be-doo-bee
Miss Madison
I PROMISE this next one was not staged!
I was trying to get pictures of just Jeremy and Katie, then I saw the kids looking through the window.
Once they got caught, everyone just started laughing (including myself).

So glad we were able to coordinate our schedules!
We've been talking about doing this for a couple months now...love you guys!

Happy Turkey Day!!

2009-11-26T00:20:00.000-08:00

Are you feeling sick from eating so much pie?

Buck up, Buttercup!
Well - just look at these darling faces and you will forget about your indigestion!
This sweet family is moving out of the country!
Thank goodness they asked me to do a session with them before they left!
I would have definitely missed out.
These little darlings just made me smile!

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I just have to say it...
I have LOTS to be grateful for. I have a happy marriage, a beautiful daughter, my religious beliefs, a home, an income...
and I am doing what I love. Being a MOM.
I know you thought I was going to say "photographer," but no.
I love being a photographer too,
but I really love being a mom to Sweet Sarah May.
Happy Thanksgiving!!

Priz fam

2009-11-24T22:33:00.000-08:00

This family is just oozing with adorable-ness.
They thought it was pretty silly when I told them,
"Pretend like I'm not here!"
Little Miss C was so proud of her painted nails.
This one just makes me chuckle.
d.ar.ling.

...and here come the heart breakers!!
I wasn't going to post this one...but I changed my mind.
I just love it. It's perfect in it's un-perfectness.

PS - Liz's niece is doing this modeling contest. I thought I would plug it...
Becca is gorgeous too! And based on the family she comes from, I am sure she is awesome, talented, and kind.
So click HERE to vote for her. You don't have to sign up for anything, you just click "vote" and type in the verification code!

Wilkerson Sneak Peak

2009-11-23T10:21:00.000-08:00

Fun times playing at the park!

"Mom, what is she doing??"

Again - my favorites are when families play!

Perfect Day - Mohler family sneak peak

2009-11-20T22:36:00.001-08:00

It was a perfect day with a perfect family. A little breezy, but I didn't mind!
They were so excited to see the horses!
Hello future Mr. GQ...
I really love when families play during our sessions,
because they aren't just taking pictures but creating memories.
(I know - cheesy. But true!!)
"London Brides falling down..."

My Daughter, My Joy

2009-11-19T00:23:00.001-08:00

How cute is this little fam?
I love symbolism in pictures...little hidden things that make images more meaningful.
They are looking at a book titled, My Daughter, My Joy.
It was given to me by my mother,
but I thought it would be perfect for this session!

Sweet sisters...

Happy Accident

2009-11-17T22:27:00.000-08:00

We started at the railroad tracks...

Then we got kicked off the tracks.

But look at what fun we had at our "happy accident" location.
I love getting this close. Some people feel uncomfortable, but I think you can
really read a person's personality.

We started coming up with stories to go with the session.

"Jerlyn" is waiting for her ride to come to leave the barren desert for good.
She keeps waiting, and waiting...
(Look at that warm sunset light! Love it.)

Alas...her ride never comes! So she starts walking off into the sunset!
Thanks Jen for laughing with me!

There's an App. for that...

2009-11-16T21:18:00.000-08:00

I have a friend...every time a problem arises she says,

"I think there's an app. for that." It's become quite the joke.
Flat tire - "Pretty sure there's an App. for that."
In this instance...
Little Mr. O had been soooo good this afternoon, but he was tired by the time we got to these shots. Dad pulls out an IPhone (I think?) and I hear a voice coming from it.
Sponge Bob! There's an "app." for a little boy who is doesn't want to take any more pictures.
This turned out to be one of my very favorites of this cute family.
I tend to get a little nervous when I do a session for another photographer and their family.
However, they need little to no direction as to how to act or position themselves.
Love her style!
She did a fun session of my daughter and I a couple of weeks ago...
I will show some soon!
Love when families play during a session. I always love how real the images are.
Thanks for a fun day!

Snips and Snails and Puppy dog tails...

2009-11-14T14:07:00.000-08:00

...that's what little boys are made of. OK - so the oldest is not so "little," but still.
These boys sure know how to have fun!

Such a cute family!
Thanks Cooper family!

Fun times at Town Square

2009-11-11T16:39:00.000-08:00

So it's no secret that I love Town Square.
I cannot get enough of that bright blue wall!
I try not to force it on people...ha! ha! ha!
...but when they ALL have gorgeous blue eyes, they don't have a choice!
One thing I love about capturing children...
they are so expressive.
They look how they feel.

Little Miss P was so cooperative and cute.
She even showed me her cheer moves!
How awesome are they?!
Love their style...
Thanks for a fun morning McCalls!

...Continued

2009-11-08T20:08:00.000-08:00

I know, I know...I teased you all with that last post. Isn't he handsome!?
Once I told him he didn't have to smile, Mr. R totally worked it!

This family rocked this session. They were up for anything!
...and sister! Love the pleasant look on Miss S.

Thank you!

new favorite.

2009-11-05T10:25:00.000-08:00

I get inspired from so many fabulous photographers...especially Angie Monson. (seriously, go check her out!) I don't know her...I can't even remember how I found her...?

I love color and contrast.

I love learning things here and there that keep me passionate about what I am doing.

I was on an absolute high the other night when I did this session. The family was so willing and just trusted me when I told them to do something.

Urban photography is so fun to me!!

Will post more very soon!!

Sneak Peak - Brown family

2009-11-04T22:09:00.000-08:00

Fun session...beautiful evening!

Love this family!

One hot Momma!
Shellie has such a fun personality, I just had to get a couple (OK a ton) of just her!

Cute parents=cute kidlets
Yes...sometimes us "desert rats" have to get creative!
Love it when a family is not afraid to get a little dirty!!

Super-Duper Family!

2009-11-04T00:29:00.001-08:00

SUPER-FAMILY! (in sing-songy voice)
It's a bird...It's a plane...It's...
the Farrimonds!
Such a cute family.
Doesn't every family feel like this? Mom and Dad trying to have a "moment," while the kids rush around you...

Gorgeous kiddos!

Enjoy!

Baby Blue

2009-11-02T20:57:00.001-08:00

Look at those baby blues!
I had the wonderful opportunity to do another session with little Miss E. this past weekend.
Total dollface!
I think we got so many facial expressions out of this little darling...
especially for only being 6 months old!

Baby Giraffes have to eat too!
I just love this...
Daddy is giving her a bottle.

Milk makes her happy!

Great Example...

2009-11-01T10:46:00.000-08:00

This is a perfect example of what a [d]andy session is!...

30 minute session for profile pictures, resume pictures,

or in Paul's case...

for his book that he is publishing titled Blind Man!

These turned out great!

Thanks for calling me!

"Somebody's watching me..."

2009-10-31T21:52:00.001-07:00

"Somebody's watching me..."
Ever heard that song??....NO???
Thought that this would make you smile for your Halloween.
Hope you had a great one!

A day of dress-up

2009-10-27T08:44:00.000-07:00

What do little girls love?
...to play with dress-ups!
Mr. Teddy was their boyfriend. They took turns.
Mr. Teddy was really tired after all that dancing and tea.
I think someone else may have gotten a little tired too...
(sorry Judy, couldn't resist!!)
Happy Birthday Miss "E" and Miss "S"!

Evans family

2009-10-27T08:21:00.000-07:00

Love this cute family!

...and the little red-head...DARLING!

Thanks for making my job easy Evans family!

All you need is love...

2009-10-24T21:59:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of meeting Kristi and Ron last week...
They are such a fun couple. I could tell Kristi felt a little uncomfortable in front of the camera.
(I know, right? She is absolutely gorgeous!!)

Ron did a great job at making her smile. Love it when that happens.
I think by the end of our session they may have forgotten I was there. ;)

Love the peacefulness in this one...

Congratulations to Ron and Kristi!

young love

2009-10-23T00:57:00.001-07:00

Oh the chemistry!...

I was able to follow these two lovebirds around and capture some sweet moments.

You can tell Caitlin and Ryan just love to be together...

Wedding coming up in a couple weeks...

I think I might be as excited as they are!

(OK, not AS excited...but pretty close)

Marvelous Mosers

2009-10-20T15:54:00.001-07:00

This lovely family was always willing to let me practice photography on them before I started "the biz"...

I must have done something right, because they came back as clients! Little Miss M. makes my heart smile. Those big ol' brown eyes. Since I am a fellow brown-eyed girl, I have always thought brown eyes were kind of boring. No way!! Not on this little cutie!

This li'l darlin' turned one, so we thought we'd let her get a little messy for her birfenday.

Adorable!

Beautiful Martin Girls

2009-10-19T16:10:00.000-07:00

Have I ever mentioned how much I *heart* fall???

I know, I know... you are probably sick of hearing me say that. I just love the colors.

Some day I will take a trip to Maine or North Carolina for a fall trip. It's on my bucket list.

Aren't these girls just adorable?? And they are as well-behaved as they are beautiful...

Thank you Martin family!!

A sign of what's to come...

2009-10-16T20:35:00.001-07:00

I sure hope this is a sign of what's to come! Miss H. gave me this adorable look for the first shot of the night!

Just can't wait to go through the rest of this session.

Coming soon: the rest of this sneak peak, Engagements, a family, a darling 1 year old, and Groomals!

JONES

2009-10-04T12:47:00.001-07:00

I bet you can't guess their last names, can you?...

I showed up with bright red soda and they had brand spankin' new clothes on...

Totally worth the risk!!

How cute are they?!

C. just loved watching his big brothers and wanted to follow them.

I loved watching them play together in the grass - chasing each other and laughing...

Ummm...hello! I want those genes!

These boys had awesome eyes!

Mr. M really warmed up to me after I gave him a soda. ;)

Mr. J is just adorable. Just the right amount of smile.

And their beautiful Mommy...

I *heart* back lighting (you can probably tell)...just gives people a gorgeous glow.

I had so much fun - thanks Miranda!

I really smiled chasing C., because it reminded me of how I

chase my little Sarah around the house.

Christmas bells are ringing...

2009-10-01T00:07:00.000-07:00

Can I just say...I am soooo excited for Christmas already! Our Little Darling will be old enough to be excited, and I just love the feeling of the holiday season. I really look forward to spending quality time with my family.

It's not even Halloween yet! The reason I bring this up you ask? Sessions are filling up quickly if you want your pictures back in time for those Christmas Cards and gifts! I have one session left for October, and two left for November.

I am really excited for these upcoming sessions...we are getting creative people!

I feel so blessed to have a creative outlet like this - doing something I love!

Yee-Haw!

2009-09-30T00:15:00.000-07:00

I was able to be the second shooter for this fab wedding with my good friend Brooke.

The bride and groom were so willing to do anything!!

(*See jumping in the middle of the road) Why yes, those ARE red cowboy boots under her wedding dress!! LOVE it!

Isn't she lovely?... (Yes, I am singing that to myself)

She was so relaxed, and so kind.

Some of the details... They had a reception real country-style...complete with red & white gingham tablecloths, a BBQ smoker, and live country music.

We had so much fun at this wedding!

My Carry-On

2009-09-25T21:22:00.000-07:00

This little darling is what took me to Texas...

of course I wanted to see the whole family,

but I was especially excited to meet Atlee Sloane.

I soooooo wanted to take her home with me!

She totally could have fit in my carry-on.

We're Busy!

2009-09-22T21:42:00.000-07:00

Just in case you were wondering why there aren't any new pictures...

We're busy! Playing with this cute family...

and my new NIECE in TEXAS!

More images coming soon... ;)

vintage couch + cute family = one sweet session!!

2009-09-14T22:34:00.000-07:00

Some of my favorites from this session...

Beautiful family! Love this one!

Just chillaxin'...

DOG PILE! Of course they had to - and no, I did not give them that idea.

OK...maybe I did. ;)

Thanks for carrying that couch around guys! It was TOTALLY worth it!

Sneak-y Peak-y

2009-09-12T09:47:00.000-07:00

I have soooo lucked out with some fabulous families! Including this one...

I just love this. Grass was so new to him!He would take a bite, then wince like he ate a sour lemon or something.

I have to say, I love that Brendan's parents weren't freaking out about it...they were just letting him explore.

I also love that Brendan's parents were so involved in the photo session too!

While I was post processing these images,

I could see Robert and Julie's reflection in his eyes...

waving their arms and getting his attention.

Such a happy and kind family! Thanks so much Valdes family!

Pretty Pula People

2009-09-09T23:51:00.000-07:00

The Pula family is so beautiful! I could take pictures of them all day!

Awww...Sisters. I hope 20 years from now they can look at these pictures and smile!

Gosh! Those puppy dog eyes...I just want to squeeze him!

Thanks guys for going on a fun adventure downtown with me!

Familia

2009-09-08T22:19:00.000-07:00

Peek-a-boo! Man it was HOT on Saturday...

...and that pool we were taking pictures around was just TOO tempting!

Oh yes they DID!! Love this family!

Kati with killer eyes!

2009-09-07T20:10:00.000-07:00

Man this girl has some lovely peepers! Wish I had those gorgeous green eyes! I was so happy to see Kati again.

I was able to do her daughter's newborn session about 7 months ago...now it's MOMMY'S turn!One hot Momma!

So fierce. For some reason, I am totally digging the serious look in my sessions!

So real to me.

Thanks for a fabulous session Kati!

Carey Barey-bo-barey...

2009-09-07T19:58:00.000-07:00

Meet my new friend Carey! We had so much fun at our session! She felt silly sometimes at the things I asked her to do, but that's when I was able to get a good laugh out of her.

Don't you just love how her hair and eyebrows totally frame her face?!

Beautiful dahhhhling!

Thanks for letting me try new things at your session! I had a b-l-a-s-t!

I actually found out that I kinda know her...she is an amazing pianist!!

I remember hearing her play when I was younger, and she totally inspired me!

Small world!