Matt and Lea's E-session

On Friday, we got together with Matt and Lea at the home where they will be married for their engagement photo shoot. The property is so beautiful, and I was glad to see it ahead of time to get some ideas going for their wedding day. One feature that really stood out to me was a zip-line between two huge trees, and thought that would be sooo fun to explore...until I learned that the owner had a scary accident trying it out last summer. I'd hate to have something like that happen again just for the sake of a uber-cool picture, so I guess we'll leave the zip-line alone.
Prior to their session, I asked Matt and Lea what kinds of activities they enjoy together, and they mentioned an interest in cooking. Alyssa and I worked to grab images while Matt and Lea prepared a feast to share with all those present.



Alyssa and Ashley took turns with the second camera, and ended up with so many fabulous images of their own! Here is one shot Alyssa took that was particularly tender...
Matt had no idea what Lea was up to when his back was turned!

This is what we call "sharing"...
After dinner, we drove to Newcastle Golf Course for some final images with the setting sun. I know it was a bit cold, but so incredibly beautiful!


Matt and Lea, we have been so honored to get to know you prior to your wedding. I hope within these images you can see the love you share and the promise of a life together filled with laughter, friendship, joy and love. Many blessings!

Kelsey's Senior Session

Last summer I had the privilege of photographing Kelsey's family - yesterday I had the fun of getting her all by herself for her senior pictures. Kelsey has amazing blue eyes that photographed so beautifully (as you can see for yourself!)

Our session lasted nearly two hours as we started in Kerry Park, then went to the Olympic Sculpture Park and ended up in a parking garage on the streets of Seattle. I felt bad for Kelsey near the end - I know what it's like being on the opposite side of the lens, and it can be exhausting. No traces of that here, though...
I love finding locations in the most unlikely places. This picture was taken right in front of our parked cars in a covered parking lot. The soft light lit her face beautifully...


This image was taken in the entrance to a parking garage off of a very busy street...I seem to remember hearing a whistle or two as I took her picture here!
Kelsey was great to work with and kept on smiling to the end. Thanks, Kelsey, for hanging in there with me! I hope you enjoy the pictures, and I'll see you soon to review them all...

Oh Baby! Waiting for the new arrival...

Last spring I had the honor of photographing Natanel and Eliza's beautiful beach wedding...this weekend, I caught up with them to capture some images while she awaits the arrival of their first-born child. I love this image taken of them lit by window light in a beautiful Northwest setting.
We were introduced to this park and rainforest-like path a few weeks ago by Daniel, who had completed his Eagle Scout project at this location. I knew I would like to come back someday for a photo shoot...fortunately, Natanel and Eliza had the same idea.
We ended up at Newcastle Golf course, a place I love to come to for scenic images and beautiful backdrops.

More than just creating a pretty picture, I have been interested in spending time capturing the heart and soul of each indivdual I photograph. I asked Natanel and Eliza to spend time alone to reflect on their lives together and the family that they have been called to be as they welcome their new baby. I really wanted them to have a moment together in which they could forget all about me and my camera, and focus on a shared experience that would be meaningful now and in the days to come.


Natanel & Eliza - many blessings to you guys. Know that we love you and it goes without saying...we look forward with joy to welcoming your baby to our community!

Happy 15th Birthday, Alyssa!

Alyssa turned 15 yesterday...wow! She woke up to a door filled with colorful notes placed by Ashley during the night - all creative expressions celebrating her birthday. Alyssa's favorites by far were warm fuzzies Jane and Bob - notes she says she plans on keeping for a very long time!


The birthday girl...

The birthday party...






Alyssa, we hope the memories you made last night with your friends will stay with you for years to come. You bring us so much life, love, fun and laughter every day...we love you! Happy Birthday!