the newton family

I have found that the first few pictures I take of a family (especially those with little ones) tend to be the best of the bunch. I enjoy taking the time necessary to "get the shot" but I've found that children tend to be at their best while they're still fresh. After all smiling can be exhausting!

When the Newton family asked me to capture some family photos for them I was honored considering that {M} is also a photographer and a dear friend of mine. I enjoyed spending the morning with them as we explored some new spots at the park I've had lots of requests for lately. Here are a few of my favorite images from our morning together:

I think this next one is my favorite out of all of them!

Miss {E} REALLY wanted all the cool toys that I had in my bag!

Another one of my faves...and I love it best in black and white.

the smith family

One of my favorite things about photography is blessing others with photographs that they will treasure forever. Not that they'd be treasured because of my talent or skill but because of the subjects in the photographs...the people that are loved beyond words. While I was processing the Smith family's photos I realized I have A LOT to learn about photography. At times it can be discouraging and overwhelming and then little bits of encouragement come along (through words from others or a breakthrough discovery on my own) that spur me on.

The Smiths have been good friends of ours for years. We have been blessed by their friendship and are so honored to be a part of their lives. So, I really wanted to bless them with some great photographs of their family. Their youngest {T} just turned one so we also set out to capture some unique one year old shots. Big brother {N} is full of energy and was very patient with all our requests for smiles.

Thank you Smith family for allowing me to capture your treasured moments.

the maples family

A couple of weeks ago I had the privilege of taking some photographs of the adorable Maples family. We had a great time exploring the park and I found some new favorite places to photograph. The kids were so cooperative and I enjoyed every minute of the session. I had so many favorites from our shoot but here are

just a few of them...