Impulsive Works Photography

2011 Year End Recap

2012-01-05T11:22:00.000-08:00

I can say, unequivocally, that 2011 was both the most trying and the most beautiful year of my 28 years on this earth. Saying goodbye to it is bittersweet. It was a year that brought me great joy, great growth, pushed my strength coupled with great struggle and great heartache. I went through more this year than most do in 10. Loosing a job, loosing loved ones, selling property I never thought I'd have to, finding that perfect acreage, starting another business, and shattering last years clients list. I pushed myself through so much this year, I honestly can't believe I'm still standing. It has been a whirlwind, an incredible yet scary whirlwind. I could not be more grateful for all 2011 has brought me, even the ugly parts. Or maybe most especially the ugly parts. I am starting 2012 stronger than I’ve ever been, and know I can tackle anything thrown at me. I can't thank everyone enough for the love and support you've shown me.

Below I've put together some of my favorite photos from this year. Some are because of the image themselves, others because of the memories with the people in them. I feel very fortunate to get to meet and work with new people all the time. There are those that have made me laugh, made me cry, made step out of my comfort zone, and those that show me that love really is the best gift we can all give.

Wishing you all a very happy new year!

Marcy & Jack (Engaged!}

2011-11-30T18:32:00.000-08:00

Amy & Jason {Engaged!}

2011-11-14T06:28:00.000-08:00

Katie & Whitney {married!}

2011-10-20T18:09:00.000-07:00

Ethan {Senior}

2011-10-13T09:09:00.000-07:00

To My Unique Brides To Be!

2011-09-26T07:02:00.000-07:00

These days I'm a little blogged crazed. I love keeping up with whats new & upcoming. Not to mention, it keeps my creativity level up! One in particular site I check out, Green Wedding Shoes, has fabulous posts. Awhile back I ran into their post about these hand painted wedding shoes from artist Deborah Thomson from Figgie Shoes. With a tattoo-esque illustration style, Deborah customizes each pair of shoes to tell the couple's personal love story, wedding location, or hobbies. I think its just brilliant, and absolutely stunning. If you're looking for that one-of-kind accessory for your big day, these might be it!

Lori & Matt {Married}

2011-09-25T18:48:00.000-07:00

Getting the email from Lori asking if I'd do her photos for her wedding was a great day for me. I have known her and her family for years. In fact, she and her sister used to babysit me! I adore all of them so, so much. So much history between our families, and one very big thing in common. We've both lost our mothers. I know it was more than emotional for her, but after telling me the money for the dollar dance was going towards the cancer society, reality really sank in. Choking up a bit, then smiling knowing both of them were there together, gave us both peace. This girl is beyond special, and I'm just so happy for her. Congratulations Lori and Matt!

Laurie & Joe {Married}

2011-09-18T14:54:00.000-07:00

Kristie & Andy {Married!}

2011-09-14T15:14:00.000-07:00

Couple weekends ago, two good friends tied the knot. I must say I'm a little jealous of their outdoor setting! Its exactly what my husband and I were looking for with no such luck! None the less, I'm so happy for the both of them. Beautiful wedding. Congrats K & A!

Mikayla { Senior! }

2011-08-31T06:54:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty stoked about this shoot! This girl is GORGEOUS, the weather was perfect, and we had a blast with the session. Had to hold back on posting all her pictures. Mikayla, thanks for letting me play!

Lauren { 2 Year }

2011-08-23T18:31:00.000-07:00

The Personal Level of 6 Months

2011-08-16T09:03:00.000-07:00

6 months ago today I lost a best friend, a person who I turned to for advice, a fighter & the strongest mother I'll ever know. They always say this 6 marker is the toughest to get through. I'm finding it to be true. The numbness of the roller coaster ride has worn off. So many feelings & emotions, its hard to even begin to explain. I decided to write this post to maybe help myself cope with the day.

Losing my mother has changed the way I see the world & has definitely took a toll on me as a person. Trying to wrap my head around it all is almost an impossible task. It’s true what they say, you can never really understand what it’s like until it happens to you. I read once losing a mother is like the sky suddenly falling down. The sky is always there & always will be. You never expect it to go away. In my case, that's how I saw my mom. Sure, she had cancer for 11 years, but every year she made it through. The moment we got the news, it was literally like the sky fell. Something that had been there my entire life, gone. The person who carried me, who gave up her dreams for me, who I turned to for advice, who'd slap me around when I was out of line, who I laughed & cried with, I will never get back. .

These past months without her have been hell. I'd be lying if I didn't say there's a lot of hate inside me. Grasping I can't pick up the phone to call her for the recipe I forgot again. Only to find myself calling my voicemail to listen to the message I STILL have on my phone just to hear her voice. Going to malls, seeing mothers and daughters there together, feeling myself get jealous inside. TV shows we used to email about while at work. Business adventures I want so badly to share with her. Sitting on the porch, sometimes saying nothing at all. My every day life has changed. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't feel the pain of her being gone.

My mom had asked me a few months before things had gotten really bad to take a picture of the cotton wood tree on their farm. Many memories tied into each branch. I never got around to doing it while she was still alive, but the last time I went to farm I remembered to grab my camera. The sun was shinning through that tree like I had never seen before. I'd like to think it was like mom knew I was there to finally getting that photo for her. On my way home, I happened to notice the train parked by our house. I pulled over and just cried. It read "Keep off tha beaten path I reign" Mom knew I always did. For her, I always will. It's what she always taught me.

I can't thank my husband, family, and my friends who are my family for helping me through this. I know it hasn't been easy for you either. Mom, these pictures are for you. Sending many hugs & kisses up to the sky...

What the heart has once owned and had, it shall never lose.

Anna & Jake {Trash the Dress!}

2011-08-11T15:37:00.000-07:00

Recently got to work with a beautiful, smart, & insanely talented classmate of mine from high school. Not only that, we got to "trash" her dress. I love doing these sessions. Its a break from the norm. Gives me, and the couple I'm working with, a chance to step out of the box. Taking on her own business in the music world, we started with a few head shots and played around with her guitar for a couple photos later. I hope there's more sessions with that down the road! Had so much fun working with you guys. Wishing you many years of happiness.

Jamie & Cody {Engaged!}

2011-08-05T17:18:00.000-07:00

Jamie & Cody's session was what you could call.....HOT. Lesson learned there. Wiping pools of sweat off ones face all the time, isn't as much fun as it sounds. Actually, in no way does that sound fun. : ) Regardless, we had a great time and ended up with some really fun shots! Go S'kers!

Payton {6 Months}

2011-08-02T18:03:00.000-07:00

For picking the hottest day in Nebraska to do her pictures, Payton sure brought her game face. We ran out of natural light towards the end, but cute none the less. Ain't she a doll?!

Anna {Trash the Dress ~ Sneek Peek}

2011-07-23T14:30:00.000-07:00

A wedding dress. Hot pink shoes. Guitar. Old car. Old house. And water. All things that make for a super fun photo shoot!! So, so, so excited to work on these! In the mean time, I'm kicking back and relaxing for a minute. Wishing everyone a great weekend and week!

Jamie & Cody {Sneek Peek}

2011-07-23T14:21:00.000-07:00

This photo shoot was the hottest yet. Holy hell. It. Was. HAWT. What better way to end it, than with a private tailgating session & a stocked cooler?!?! So much fun!

Payton {Sneak Peek!}

2011-07-23T14:09:00.000-07:00

I am taking a much needed break this week. Before I leave, I decided to give you all a little insight on things to come! First up, Paytons 6 month old pictures. She's probably be the cutest damn kid around! Despite the heat, we got er' done....Pretty cute, no?!!

Katie & Whitney { Engaged! }

2011-07-17T14:43:00.000-07:00

Katie & Whitney are a great looking couple. When I found out they were having a 40's themed wedding, I was stoked! Naturally, I wanted to use some of my vintage stuff I have laying around house for their session. Besides being ate to death by the bugs, and roasted out from the heat, we got some greats shots! Thanks for being troopers you two!

Dyan & Jake {Engaged!}

2011-07-13T10:53:00.000-07:00

Congrats guys, can't wait for you wedding!

Annie & JT {Married!}

2011-07-11T16:53:00.000-07:00

Once in awhile, you come across people whom you just click with, and as she put it "we're meant to meet." Annie called right in the middle of my worst nightmare with my Mom. At the time, I didn't care about anything but her. My business mind went on the back burner. Finally realizing I couldn't throw everything away, I contacted her. Much to my surprise, she knew EXACTLY what I was going through, and was just waiting for me to come around. Turns out, she had recently lost her father. Its safe to say this wedding will always hold a special place in my heart and was even emotional for me at times. Annie girl, you are amazing. The strength you showed that day inspired me.....Thank You.

The flowers were in memory of her Dad. My heart went out to them.

He'd be very happy & proud of you Annie! You were a beautiful bride!

Morning After Session

2011-07-08T11:22:00.000-07:00

Love when I get unusual requests! I've only seen a few morning after sessions done before, and when Lisa asked me if I'd be interested, I was excited as hell! Thanks for letting me experiment guys!

Lisa & Matt {Married!}

2011-07-08T10:56:00.000-07:00

Not much to say about you two, love you both, and super happy for you!

Laura & Greg Engagement

2011-07-01T05:45:00.000-07:00

Laura & Greg are a swanky little couple from Omaha. I had met them a couple times before, but lately we've had a lot of bonding time. Greg's sister just got married, (to one of my husbands best friends, I might add) last weekend. We had our session, the bachelorette that night, then of course the big day. Its been fun getting to know them, but definitely a quiet couple around the camera! Regardless of how much men hate taking pictures, I think we managed to get some great shots!

Cathleen & Travis {Married!}

2011-06-23T19:46:00.000-07:00

Couple weeks ago I got to venture to Grand Island, Ne for Cathleen & Travis's wedding. Due to conflicts with travel and weather, we weren't able to meet or get in engagement pictures before the big day. Sometimes, I worry about there being a bit of awkwardness when that happens, but the moment I met Cathleen, I knew we were golden She's a sweet, gorgeous girl who's going to make Travis one happy man! So great meeting both of them and wish em' both the very best!

Baker Family Photos

2011-05-26T19:48:00.000-07:00

Few weeks ago I got the chance to meet the Bakers, and their doll of a daughter, Riley. Thought things were going to be a breeze when I sat down on the ground for the first shot and she crawled right towards me. Didn't keep her entertained to long and she had moved on and wanted nothing to do with me. : ( After a little playing around and buttering up, we were able to catch that beautiful smile she has!

Pleasure working with you guys!

Julie & Justin Tie the Knot

2011-05-19T19:35:00.000-07:00

So excited to announce to you Mr. & Mrs. Nieveen! Had a blast shooting this wedding, and I'm so very, very happy for both of them. Thank you both for letting me be a part of your day!!

Tuesday & The Small Things That Made Me Smile...

2011-03-22T16:43:00.000-07:00

You all know this is true.....that sunken ship in the middle says "work".

From I Love Charts

Narwhal, narwhal, swimming in thee ocean, like an underwater unicorn, they've got a kick ass facial horn!!! I hope you know the song. If you don't.....youtube it!

From The Oatmeal.

THIS. I effing Love This.

2011-03-20T17:42:00.000-07:00

Hope you all had a great weekend.

So It Appears As Though....

2011-03-09T16:13:00.000-08:00

Its Wednesday. I'm back to work and teaching myself how to get back in the saddle again. As it would turn out, I'm starting to become a believer in all that "it happens for a reason" bs. The anger and loss of my Mom is bringing out my creative chaos that goes on in my head more than ever! If I can get my act together, good things will be on the way!

Now, back to why I'm here, its Wednesday. Which now has 2 meanings, in 3 words : Idol, Weird, Wonderful. Here we go:

Weird:

* How I can spend so much time cleaning one room, to only carry half the crap into another, and make yet ANOTHER one a mess!! UGH!

* Starting to type something, only to learn 5 words, sometimes even an entire sentence in, I wasn't on the home row! Case and point, chatting on gmail with a friend, hit enter...lord. Complete Spanish. Her not missing a beat, replies with " Holy Home Row!!!" That made me smile.

* Things people will say to you, or judge you for, when they don't understand or know the half of it. We're all guilty of it, I know I am. I just wish we weren't so fast on doing it.

* Learning life can be summed up in 3 words "it goes on"

Wonderful:

* The love I've been shown lately. Couple gifts in the mail from some old friends, who really melted my heart. #thankyou#

* The game the hus and I play at the grocery store. Closet to the total amount wins, losers makes dinner that night. Last time we went I guessed $140....TOTAL $140.20 SUCKA!!!! (that'll never happen again)

* As stated before, the craziness of what I've been through lately, is really bringing out the best in me. I've come up with some photo shoots I'm extremely excited to share with you all!!

* My new job!!! Loving it!!! Thank you Signs & Scumbags for firing me! Best thing you ever could have done for me!

* The voicemail I still have on my phone of the last message my Mom left me. I listen to it every day. Some days it brings tears, but lately, I can smile about it.

* This sweet picture I did at work today!! Simple to some, but I had never thought myself how to add flames and smoke on an object! Photoshop skilz, here I come!

Happy Idol Watching! Go James!

The Worst Best Day of My Life....

2011-03-03T07:32:00.000-08:00

So its been 2 weeks since my Moms passing. I haven't had the strength, drive, or will power to type a blog about this whole experience & my actual feelings. Although I could go on and on about this situation, I'm going to try and sum it up. The following is all very personal.

The photos below are very, very dear to my heart. It was my Moms dying last wish to see their farm and animals one last time. And thats just what we did. On the very last day my Mom would ever be able to open her eyes, talk, or share her still, very positive attitude, we loaded her up on a bus and drove out to the farm. It became very clear, she saved every bit of strength and or fight she had left in her for this trip. As soon as she saw her dogs, her whole body collapsed. She knew and we knew, this was the end. She did find the strength to say to me "I don't have much left Spook".... holy hard thing to except. Reality was, I already knew. I told her it was ok, and that she could give in.

My Moms attitude made this whole thing so much easier on everyone. She was inspiring for me and others who spent time with her. I had serval nurses and staff members tell me what a blessing it was to have met my Mom. She left an imprint on all of us. It has changed me in many ways. I don't think I'll ever fully be over her being gone. So many things hit me like a ton of bricks. Last place we ate together, the last movie we saw, last gift she gave, not being able to call her after idol and arguing about who we liked and didn't like. Its a very empty, gut wretching feeling. Quite frankly, it sucks.

I do know, however, she's healthy and happy somewhere else now. No more fighting, no more worrying about what doctor she has to see, or where the cancer might hit next. She's a peace, and that is all I've EVER wanted for her. I can't thank everyone enough for the love and support we've received. I know if she was here to see it all, she'd be completly blown away.

In the end its brought a new perspective to my life, its shown me what is vital and what isn't worth my time. My Mom got her last wish, so that made it a great day. Knowing it was the end, was the worst.

Mom, I love you & miss you beyond measures...

Nothing Wonderful About This Wednesday

2011-02-02T08:54:00.000-08:00

Time for me to get personal again. Mostly just to vent. Recently the hubby and I got away to Cali for a week. While it was the most beautiful state I've seen, my mind was back home. Three days into the trip, we got the call. The call that changes everyones life. "Your mom doesn't have much time left...."

Silence.

What do you say to that? How do you deal with that? I've been in and out of a hospital with my mom her whole life, you're telling me this is how it ends?? She's fought every battle possible, has so much she wants to see and do yet, isn't ready to die, but doesn't get a choice? Its bullshit. Its beyond unfair. And not just cause its my Mom, its cancer in general. To watch your mother, your best friend, the person whos been there for you your whole life, not have a choice. Its the most helpless feeling a person can have.

We're taking it day by day. It ain't easy, just enjoying what time we do have left. Not leaving anything unsaid. Some days are ok, some are worse. Might come a day when she can't talk, which will be the icing on the cake. Right now she's living off those of you who know her and have come into see her. She loves it. I can't thank you all enough.

My mom is about the biggest animal lover out there. We're lucky enough to be able to bring dogs into the care center and its about the only time my mom grins from ear to ear.....and its what I'll miss the most. Her love.

Love you so much.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqBMYoctFZM

Coldest New Years Ever

2011-01-27T10:34:00.000-08:00

So I'm a little behind on my blog posts, more to come on that later. This New Years I was asked to do a wedding in the BIG town of Bassett, Nebraska. :D 600 some people in the middle of nowhere. When I asked the bride to be why on NYs? She replied "what the hell else is there to do there to do on new years? why not throw the biggest party" Too shay. Totally made sense.

Luck would have it, a horrible storm moved in with a shit ton of snow & -35 wind chills. GREAT weather for a wedding. Unfortunately, half the guests couldn't make it, including the pastor! We made the most of it, and managed to even get a few shots outside in the freezing cold. All in all, it was a great time. Big congrats and best of luck to Kayti & Denny.....one wedding I'll never forget!

5 Favorites

2010-12-24T12:37:00.000-08:00

Christmas is here, and I'm home alone, sick. Some timing. Nothing much else to do but browse the world wide web. Which, I do about every day. By the end of each week I usually have a few things I'm crushing on. Since I have nothing else to do today, I've decided on Fridays, I'm goin to share those things. 5 Friday Favorites. I really need to stop the whole, matching titles to the week day thing. Eh, guess its just worked out that way. Anyways, heres this weeks:

1. white, gold, and feathers. so elegant. (design sponge)

2. textures & lace. screams gorgeous. (uk vogue)

3. vintage furniture. i need to own this.(bloesem)

4. homemade christmas decor. (design sponge)

5. beautiful wrapping jobs. (design sponge)

Merry Christmas Everyone!

W&W Time

2010-12-22T19:10:00.000-08:00

Happy Wednesday before Christmas everyone!! Been a little bit of a rough week, but I'm trying to stay positive. On top of it all, I have no voice! Throats been sore for 3 days now, some timing this is!! Hopefully better by Friday. So heres my weird and wonderful for ya:

Weird:

*Post Office hours. I mean really, who are they kidding? Way to cut your work load back by making your hours 8:30-4. Don't know if ya'll got the memo, but the majority of people are 8 to 5ers. If you choose not to change your hours for the workin folk, could you least drive 50 more feet and set the package that won't fit in the box by 1/4", at our house? Thanks.

*Company reviews. Same story every time. They think they can change me, I think I can change them. Need I say more?!

*Timing. Never fails. Just when you need less stress, the most stressful situation occurs. You're out of gas, so is the gas station. (no joke) Missed the call by a second, call right back, no answer. Timing IS everything.

*My love for old things. You name it, if its vintage looking, I'm probably goin to want it. I have no idea where I gained the love for this at. It might be getting out of hand...

Wonderful

*Its the holidays! AND we don't have 10 feet of snow on the ground!! I've done most my shopping online this year, but the few places I been out too, the people seem...a little less rude than normal. No fingers flying in the park lots or anything!

*Friends. Can't say enough about you guys. You make me feel really, neat. So loved. Value each and every one of you!

*Husband, who even on my worse day, makes me laugh. Nothing like coming home to wash my hands at the kitchen sink and having water sprayed directly in your face cause SOMEONE wrapped a rubber band around the sink hose. Classic.

*Being different. I've always caught crap, since the end of time, about my attire or tastes. It gives me a scene of confidence, knowing I can express who I am through the simplest things. Like these glasses, some just don't get it....and I love that.

Pretty weak list, but my brain is fryed, nighty night you guys!

Stressful Times Call For Great Foods

2010-12-21T06:19:00.000-08:00

When I first got married, it wasn't a secret, I wasn't much of a cook. I had a few specialties, but it never tripped my fancy. It wasn't that I couldn't cook, or ever came close to burning the house down, I just never had a reason to get good at it. Until I married a man who,undoubtedly, needs at least 3 big meals a day! Now when I say 3, I mean 3 different categories of the food group. Example, if we have something with noodles in it at lunch, we can't have anything with noodles in it that night, or the next day! Tricky, right??! But, in his defense, it has pushed me to eat healthier, and become more creative with foods. Which is exactly what I needed.

Lately the stress level has been at an all time high, which I've read, will cause people to eat more. I haven't found the need to eat more, but I have wanted to cook more. I've been cooking like mad! I've really been experimenting with my own recipes. Below are a few things from this past week:

The "caddi" of all ham sandwiches. Deeeelish!!

Burritos that my hubby says "kick mcdonalds ass"... maybe not saying some, but we love mickey d burritos!

Little soup & salad night at the Burrows's. Homemade noodles my mom taught me, pretty much my favorite food, ever.

Peanut butter cupcakes, not for the weak!

And the best for last. My first attempt at making carmel apples, not so pretty, but the story to follow was priceless! No joke, while typing this blog, the hus came upstairs with one in hand. I apologized for their not so snazzy appeal, but that never stops him. He's eating, I'm talking, and typing, then "oh noooo" I look over and he's spitting out pieces. I was like "oh nooo" is it bad? No, he said, its so good I forgot it was an apple! He ate everything but the lower half. Stem and all!! How does that even happen?!!? I haven't laughed that hard in a long, long time!! Picture is now blog worthy!

Happy Tuesday!

W & W Wednesdays

2010-12-15T09:23:00.000-08:00

So I've decided to declare Wednesdays as Weird & Wonderful Wednesdays. We all come across things that either really annoy us or make us appreciate things. I'm going to start making notes of these and see what comes of it. So here goes nothing:

Weird:

• Walking down the stairs to see my husband standing in the kitchen, look at me, and say "why are you so dressed up". How long have we been married now? My attire is consistently changing, get used to it.

• Having your outfit "just so" and the hus comes up and changes something. I'll have my shirt tucked just a certain way, he has to come lift it up, zipper at a certainly level, he lowers it. I'll never understand the kick he gets from this.

• The words "power bra" popping into my head from a conversation Amy and I had last week. What a funny moment in time that was!

• This annoying sound that is in the bathroom vent at work. It sounds as though a bird is having its last breath of air. And its only when the light is turned on, what could that possibly be?!

• Going to a gas station only to find the pump you've chosen doesn't want to work with you. You stare through the windows at clerk with laser beams in your eyes as if they're the ones to blame.

• 8 hour days at work that seem to last for AT LEAST 12.

Wonderful:

• Shortly after the "dressed up" comment, he'll tell me I look beautiful.

• Running across that new band that you just can't get enough. Maybe they're not even new, but they're new to you, and that makes it wonderful.

• Checking out the bands music videos, and finding that are just inspiring. The angles, the lighting, the story, all just....work.

• People that are still willing to donate towards my moms fundraiser. ~Thank You!~

• Getting an email from an old friend who says one of my posts touched her, and asked me for advice. I'm no expert, but I'll do my damnedest to help you out.

• How watching the Grinch (Jim Carrey version) and having it still make me laugh like a 12 year old!

• Knowing next week at this time will start my MUCH NEEDED Christmas break! And Amy and I will start to plot our next move in our crazy new adventure! Round up the antiques!

Happy Hump Day Ya'll! Heres the band, heres the video, they rock:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLJf9qJHR3E

Whoooo Wants Ordinary?

2010-12-14T10:19:00.000-08:00

Tis that time of year! And I'm not talking about the holidays. I'm talking about that time of the year when one of my closest friends is about to pop! Time has ticked away faster than I ever could have imagined. One day she's sending me a picture of a quarter telling me, that is the size of her baby. The next its a pineapple, (which I still think is a horrible visual!) and soon it will be the size of a pumpkin!

Naturally, a shower had to be thrown. Its no secret that I'm not a girly girl when it comes to this sort of thing. I just don't get all ooooo and ahhhhhhy when a little shirt is pulled out of a bag. Its just a shirt ladies. You've seen it a million times. I also get annoyed by having to go to the store with a little list in hand. Almost always, they never have the item, or its in a totally different isle than what is stated and takes forever to find! This time, I decided to take matters into my own hands. Use my creativity and uniqueness for a shower gift.

Another chum of mine, who is insanely talented, has her own business making....well, a collaboration of things. Monster balls mainly. I work with her on a daily basis and asked if she could make a owl ball to go along with the invites and poster I had already made. It turned out awesome!! I think together, these two little things will be a nice addition to their nursery! This was so much more fun to give, than the ordinary lotion and diapers! I'll leave those gifts up to the normal people.

Anyone whooooo wants to see more of Amys work visit: http://plaiderpillar.com/

The Test

2010-12-11T19:59:00.000-08:00

Finding the right words for this post might be a struggle. I'm a strong believer in cliche saying "what doesn't kill you will make you stronger". My mom is a walking test to this. Ten years now, and I can honestly say I don't recall a day when she complained about her cancer. Had her days, tests, and tears, yes. But never carried around that "pour pity me" attitude.

Cancer has been a big part of my life for some time now. Its almost as if when I hear the word, I'm numb to it. Just another step in life so to speak. When an unexpected friend stepped in and asked what I thought about throwing my mom a fundraiser, I jumped on the opportunity. Talk about a test. Its was a test to my parents, my strength, and my friendships. So interesting to see who comes through when you really need it, and who acts as though they could care less. In the end, the experience was very humbling, and the turn out was everything we had hoped for. I really can't thank those whos helped out enough.

To any of you going through what I am, stay strong. Thats my biggest advice. If you feel yourself about to break down, never do it around them. They feel guilty the way it is. Be there for them, love them, and support them. Surround yourself with amazing friends and tell yourself this really will make you stronger. Look up to people like my mom, who never stop fighting, and who never give up on "the test."

Our dinning room prior to set up. Just a FEW items!

Two of the lovely ladies I couldn't have done without. Thank you so, so much!

Koozies we had made for the event. Little play on word action!

My mom, the Warrior.

Oh How The Turn Tables.......

2010-12-09T17:54:00.000-08:00

What a year. Its December, and I just realized my last post was in February. Not a single post in between, not even a flinch or flicker on thinking about posting something. This year has been, a test, to say the least. I've gone through a lot of heartache and growing up. I've decided I want to try and tackle this blog thing a little better, use it almost as a journal, and just get my thoughts out there. This one I'm afraid, might get a little lengthy considering its basically a year end wrap up.

Photography wise, this year was great. October was my shining month. I had a blast trying, pushing, and testing myself in every aspect. The end result was what I had hoped for out of this business. Satisfying. The people you meet along the way are true lifesavers. Sure every once in awhile you get that stubborn male, who, for whatever reason just won't break a smile to save his life. That bride who wants everything to be so perfect she's freaking everyone else out around her. Or maybe its just that young kid who screams at the site of a stranger with a camera in hand. These things are all real, but I think what I love. Its always different, and like myself, is exactly what I dig the most. Its truly something when you run into that one person at a wedding who it was an honor just to have met. I got that chance this year, but it wasn't just one, it was a whole group of people. A biker group none the less, the people, who when I'm behind the wheel of a car, I hate the most! They all had gotten back from Iraq the night before the wedding. Their stories were amazing. Those people, I will never forget, and always in the back of my mind, thank.

Then comes the heartache. One word can sum it up. Cancer. This deadly, deadly thing, I can only hope catches a case of its own medicine someday real soon. For the fourth time, my mother received the horrible news. The cancer had returned. Pure heartache. Once again. It has truly taken a toll on me this time. Thank god for my husband, friends, and the family I have that really do care. Without them, my life maybe no life at all.

I've decided to post a few pictures to wrap this thing up. There's something in each one that tells a story to me. How much we truly do need each other. How strong love is, new or old. How something so small, changes your entire world. To the people in these pictures, I thank you. You've all made feel, realize, or appreciate different parts in life:

That becoming a mom should be exciting, not scary. And even though you have a "pineapple" inside your belly, you're amazing beautiful.

A family I can't believe I'm part of. The love they show each other is endless. What they have is what every family strives for. And they do it effortlessly.

A couple who, in high school, never really even talked. Who's wedding was full of love and more laughs than I had ever seen. Definitely what its all about.

Babies, kids, and families who make my job more challenging.

Beautiful couples who entertain me with all their crazy stories.

Having a great friend finally find that one person that makes them happy.

The kid who loves the camera and could pose all day long.

Young love. We all need to enjoy it.

In the end, love really is all we need. Happy Holidays Everyone.

{ 5 } Things to Think about Before Engagement Photos

2010-02-23T07:13:00.000-08:00

Thanks to facebook we can all stay connected with the world and whats going on it. My friends "Modern Photographers" are kind enough to post inspiring and very insightfull articles once in awhile. I know a lot of people who know exactly what they want for photos, and others who, well, frankly, don't have a clue! The tips below are very spot on. Just remember to be yourself the day of pictures and pick a location that speaks YOU!

Engagement Portraits have been around for a while, but their popularity has soared in the last couple of years. Couples love them because they get a chance to flaunt in front of the camera. Photographers love them because they provide a chance to get to know the couple before the wedding, which can help make the wedding day run much smoother. A well planned engagement session can create some amazing images to compliment the wedding album, but how should you go about planning for the session to make sure you get the most of it?

Here are some things to consider:

1. Purpose

What will you do with the images? Engagement Portraits should serve to help you announce to the world that you are getting married! Use them to show off your love for each other. Here are some ways to get the most out of your images:

Use them for save the date cards
Create a guest sign in book with them
Use them as table toppers at your reception
Post them on Facebook for everyone to see
Create a wedding website using the images
Put together a slideshow to display before or during your ceremony
Order custom prints for your loved ones
Make an announcement in the local newspaper using your favorite image
display them at your bridal shower

2. Location

Once you have an idea of how you want to use your images, then you can plan on the type of look that you want for them. Think about your personalities, and what type of setting would best portray you in the images. Some locations to consider might be;

Urban. Think brick buildings, graffiti, sidewalks, and overgrown abandoned buildings. The contrast of a beautiful couple in a rugged environment can really create dramatic portraits.
Industrial. Metal doors, tin walls, chrome, and steel can add bold contrast to a playful engagement session.
Natural. Frolic through the forest and cuddle by the water for a romantic setting.
Home. One overlooked setting is your home! Show off your real personalities by creating images in your natural setting. Play Scrabble at the kitchen table. Bar-B-Q in the backyard. Drink Latte’s on the porch. Be yourself!
The place where he proposed. Assuming he didn’t jet you off to Paris to ask for your hand in marriage, try visiting the location where he proposed to add some significance to the portraits (but please don’t feel the need to reenact the proposal)

3. What to where

Once you’ve figured out what you want to do with the images, you’ll have an easier time figuring out what to where. Most photographers don’t mind a change of clothes, so be sure to ask if a change will be possible. Do you want traditional looking images that are common among your friends and family (you know- the blue jean and white shirt look), or do you want to stand apart from the crowd? Generally, you want your engagement images to show off your personality, so wear something that you can flaunt in! It’s a good idea to stay away from busy patterns because they take the viewer’s eye away from your pretty face. You want everyone to see you, not just your clothes!

4. Concept

Having a concept for your session will really help things come together. Do you want fun images? Romantic images? Passionate images? Sexy images? What do you want people to think when they see your pictures? Do you want them to laugh? Do you want them to see how much in love you are with your fiance? Do you want them to see two people smiling at the camera? What emotions do you want to convey through the images? Are you daring enough to come up with a concept that would truly set your engagement images apart from those of your friends? What movies or music videos could you build a theme around? What books do you like? Pitch the ideas to your photographer, most photographers love the chance to create something out of the ordinary.

5. Choosing a photographer

If you haven’t chosen your photographer yet, consider the type of engagement portraits that you would like- then browse the engagement portfolio of all photographers on your list. Look for images that speak to you. Look for images that show off the personality of the couples in the portfolio, rather than images that just show couples smiling at the camera. Find out the reputation of any photographer you consider by a simple google search. Modern Photographers Wedding Wire and Project Wedding are also great resources to read reviews on photographers as well as other vendors. is a great place to find reputable photographers that shoot with a contemporary style. (Members of Modern Photographers must be voted in by their peers based on reputation, skill, and creativity). Wedding sites like

These five suggestions will help you create engagement images that are truly engaging! You’re in love- flaunt it!

Welcome!

2010-02-10T08:41:00.001-08:00

I'm very new to this whole blogging thing, however, I am very excited about it! 2010 season has started and I shall have new pictures to post very soon! In the mean time here are a couple photos from a wedding my husband and I went to in Florida! Not only was it beautiful, but we got to get away from the snow!!!