The M Family: Angela, Brian, Allie, and Jace

If you check out the blog regularly you'll recognize this family. I took photos of Allie back when I was just starting out and she was only 2 years old (see post here), and I took newborn photos of Jace last May (see post here). I can't believe how much they have both grown!

Angela and I have known each other a long time - we grew up in the same small north central Iowa town and she was a year behind me in school. I remember hanging out with her and several other friends at the pool every day in the summer when we were about 15 years old! Ah, the good old days...

Anyways, I was thrilled when Angela asked if I would take some photos of her family this year, and Sunday afternoon we ventured out to Kent Park. The weather was beautiful, the kids were adorable, and the family is, as you can see...gorgeous. Here's a sneak peek of some of my favorites - enjoy!





Allie is a very sweet and loving big sister to Jace with lots of kisses and hugs to go around. I'm not sure he appreciates it right now, but hopefully he will someday.




Allie loves princesses, and she had a great time looking at the photos right after I took them at the session. She has a sweet smile with a mischievous and infectious laugh.








It's hard to tell if she's a daddy's girl, or a momma's girl...(maybe a little of both?)








Jace is getting to be such a big boy! I love his little cheeks.










I think this one of Angela and Jace is so sweet, it is definitely one of my favorites of the year so far!





Above photo taken by Josh

Happy Birthday Josh!

Those of you who have had photo sessions with me, have probably met my husband Josh. He's my assistant and second shooter, and I am so grateful he's on this journey with me.



Josh - Happy 29th birthday! Thank you for being my partner in both life and business, I couldn't do either one without you. I love you (so does Einstein!) and wish you a 29th year that's as wonderful as you are!

Nikki & Devon [Mt. Vernon, IA Engagement]

Nikki and Devon are getting married in September, and we had the most perfect spring day to take their photos yesterday afternoon. They had scouted out some spots in Palisades Park, so we traipsed along the trails and ended up with some beautiful photos!

Nikki and Devon went to the same high school, although Nikki didn't really know him at the time. Despite this fact, her friend took it upon herself (perhaps having a premonition of future events?) to tell Devon that Nikki had a crush on him. Fast forward to Nikki's 22nd birthday, Devon showed up and made sure to mention the fact that he knew she had a crush on him back in the day. And the rest, they say, is history...


I had met Nikki and Devon back in December, and getting together for their engagement photos was like meeting up with old friends. Anyone can see the love between these two - just look at the way they look at each other.






Above photo by Josh





Another thing I love and noticed right away is how easily Devon can make Nikki laugh. There's nothing more important (in my opinion) than having a sense of humor about life, and having a partner who knows just how to make you smile.







Above photo by Josh



Devon has a great smile too...








This was the first couple to bring their pets to an engagement shoot! I was so excited, because as you know, I love dogs. Meet Lola, and Blue (named due to her half blue eye).






Love how the pups were getting playful on the beach...

Above photo by Josh

Above photo by Josh

After the pups had their moment in the spotlight, we handed them off to Devon's mom (who brought Blue to the session) and Devon & Nikki took one last stroll on the sand.





Above photo by Josh

Nikki and Devon - Thanks for a great session! We can't wait to see you guys again in September! :)