"Isn't it funny how day by day nothing changes, but when you look back everything is different..."  -C.S. Lewis

Isn't there something, a little magic, that occurs when you look at old pictures? They bring you back to a certain point in your life, and all of a sudden, the memories start flooding in.  The feelings you had, the way things smelled, even the noises that filled the air, all come back. It can feel like another life.

That is what I love most about family portraits! These sessions document things that are sure to change, so we can reminisce on the way things were.  How lucky am I to engage in such magic? 

There were hundreds of quotes I could've placed here, but I had you in mind. 

I wanted to make sure I was telling the right story, the one that brings you together and draws you near. Even in the midst of mundane, it inspires life and adventure. From the butterflies in the beginning, to the decades of growing, accomplishing, learning, and loving one another, that's your story. And that is the one I want to quote. 

"Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire"- Unknown

I feel a little nostalgic when collaborating with seniors. How many times in our life do we get to experience the closing of one chapter and the excitement of the next? 

To be celebrated for your achievement, yet still finding your way, ignites something in you. It fuels you to push harder, dream bigger, and conquer whatever stands in the way. 

"You never understand life until it grows inside you." -Sandra Chami Kassis

Ah, pregnancy!  Isn't it funny how creating life can literally suck out all of yours?!? If pregnancy was a sport, mine would've been sponsored by Emetrol, yoga pants, and Netflix. I hardly ever left the house!

Despite the drawbacks, I believe there is something so prophetic about pregnancy. It has a way of preparing you for what's to come (just as mine prepared me for my little home body toddler). While every pregnancy is different, I feel we all share a familiar element of growth that goes beyond our swollen bellies. 

"Enjoy it while you can, it goes by so fast!" -Every person ever, when talking to parents of little ones. 

As parents, I'm sure we've heard this quote more times than we can count. As generic as it may seem, that statement packs a punch - one I really didn't understand until a few months into motherhood.  The stages pass so quickly and their personalities are forever evolving.

As a photographer, I believe in keeping true to the times. Whether they be chaotic, quirky, adventurous, sweet, timid, or fun, each of these phases are like little puzzle pieces that put together who they become. 

"Together is a beautiful place to be "  -Anonymous

Here's to love, laughter, and happily ever after! Oh, and wedding cake! Because it's kinda like one of my favorite parts!

Actually, if I have to choose my favorite part of the wedding day,  it would absolutely be the energy! There is nothing else like it! The time spent before the ceremony is full of immense anticipation. You can feel it from everyone in the room. It's incredible how the fierce atmosphere is completely washed away with a peacefulness as soon the couple are united at the altar. 

But it's the energy of the kiss that conducts an electricity through the room. It sends love-struck guests into party animals ready to celebrate the night away.

It's a roller coaster of emotions!  How can I not get swept away by that?!?