Blue Eyed Girl...

Charlotte and I have been taking pictures together since she was born... and being that it has been a whole 10 weeks, I'd say she's pretty much a pro.

I had the joy of being able to accompany Charlotte and those pesky parental units to Talleyrand Park this past week. She thought the ducks, sky, trees, grass, and so forth were much more interesting than mom or dad. By the end though, we tuckered her out - and I can only image the dreams that followed.

I have been blessed to be a part of your lives.

Expecting Faith

On Sunday, Amy and Tom welcomed me into their beautiful home to capture a fleeting moment of the history they are creating. Amy and I met at the Bridal Expo in January, she was showing her little sister the ropes of planning a wedding, and we hit it off immediately. A few days later she contacted me about doing a photo session for her. You see, Amy and Tom are expecting their first baby, a baby girl, a baby girl named Faith.

Now those who know me, know that I am a girly girl. So image my delight to walk into baby Faith's nursery to find it decked out in pink. Pink walls, pink rug, pink shoes, pink tutu onesie... ahhhhh, love. This darling girl is certainly going to be mommy and daddy's princess - and can I just predict that coming from these two parents she will be gorgeous outside and in.

Amy and Tom positively glowed as they spoke of their daughter-to-be, their love for one another and this new addition to their family poured out through the entire session.

This maternity session was so much fun and I can't wait to meet this sweet girl, but for the time being we are simply left expecting...

Generations

The holidays are wonderful in that they are one of the few times a year where we make a point to see family. Where all the generations trek over the river and through the woods to arrive at grandma's house, or Auntie Em's, or Uncle Bernie's.... well, maybe not. But still, holidays are one of the few times where multiple generations find themselves in one place at one time - and when that happens; it is time, dear readers, to take a photo.

"But Suzanne... aren't you a wedding photographer???"

Yes, dear reader, I am. I am a wedding photographer who also takes family photos, maternity photos, baby photos, etc... You'd be amazed at what locations can work for a variety of images - even in the middle of winter. Anything from your own living room (or that or a friend with a bigger living room), to a nice restaurant (just get permission first), to the location that the Andersons chose - a conference room at the Village. With a little bit of prior planning and an ounce of ingenuity; family photos that preserve the generations before they are gone will become something you DO, rather than something you wish you had done.

Best Christmas Present EVER!

Stumped as to what to get for Mom and Dad this year for Christmas? Take a tip from Olivia and her siblings and give them the best gift ever - YOU! Seriously, how long has it been since mom had a nice family portrait taken, or a fun personality filled picture of all of her kids together, or even a beautiful head shot of you by yourself? Time is running out to get these done before Christmas, but a gift certificate can be just as nice.

On to the actual session - We had a great time trying not to freeze our fingers off on Sunday afternoon. Choosing a local park allowed a variety of backdrops without the need to travel very far. I can't wait to work with Olivia and her family again next year when she gets married to that handsome tall guy.

Enjoy the tip of the iceberg....

Thanksgiving - Family Style

A few months ago I was contacted by Erin about taking a family picture as a surprise for her mother. After spending some time talking I realized that this family was anything but typical. First, Erin is on of 9, yes I said 9, children. Her mother is gorgeous and deserves a medal of honor, or valor, or both! Erin explained to me that is has been 10 years since the family last had a portrait taken. We decided to include mom in the session rather than lose this rare opportunity to have an image of the entire family. The session took place at the family's picturesque mountain home.

It was such a blessing to be able to spend the afternoon with this very large, very welcoming family; and to be reminded how thankful I am for my own.

Enjoy the teasers...

Family Fun

April, a fellow photographer, contacted me when she realized that getting her 3 year old son to sit and smile for a family picture this year would not happen without help. In I stepped with my bag of silly faces, strange noises, and love for throwing pine cones to capture the attention of this very energetic boy.

We had a great time at Talleyrand Park - and due to the nature children, kept the session short and sweet. I always strive when working with small children to keep the session fun; to play, to let them get to know me, and to remember that they can only last so long.

It was such a pleasure for me to capture the joy and love in this family!