Ever thought about bringing props to your session? What about a dog? 

Dogs make lovely snuggly creatures, and show off the fun connections you have in your families. Especially when they are this cute and cuddly! :) 

Most people imagine that their photo sessions need to be only pictures of smiling faces looking directly at the camera. 

And while we all lovely gorgeous photos of your face and eyes, sometimes showing off your personality means not every photo is strictly of you smiling. 

Non-smiling photos can show off the love you have for someone else. 

Or even the love you have for something else! (like coffee!) 

Most importantly, photos should be a reflection of the entire you. Not just the pieces that are smiley.

Ashley, and Mckenzie, thank you so much for letting me capture all the beautiful parts of your mother-daughter bond! Especially the parts that weren't super smiley - but were more on the crazy, goofy, nerdy side! (my favorite!) ;) And thanks for bringing your adorable dog - because dogs make EVERYTHING better!! Love you both!! 

Sometimes it's tempting to put off photos until everything is perfect. 

The weather is perfect, the leaves are perfect, your hair is perfect, or the stars align in some magical way. 

Maybe you even wait until everyone is the right age, or everyone has the right outfit, or everyone feels the very best. 

But I love clients who embrace life as it is... 

Always aware that capturing family photos is less about getting everyone into a perfect pose, and more about solidifying memories of that moment forever. 

Because why not remember the good with the bad, the sick with the well, and the calm with the crazy? 

Amanda and Jared, I am so so thankful for the chance to work with you again this year! Even though poor Gus wasn't feeling well, I loved that we went with the flow and took things as they came - and look at the cute little grins we got!! Thanks for trusting me with your family memories and for being amazing to work with. Enjoy these photos!! <3