Lauren and Tim's engagement session

Gabriel and I spent a few hours on Sunday afternoon with Lauren and Tim, photographing their engagement session at the Arboretum in Seattle. The only request they had for their session was that it take place in a scenic spot outdoors - I think this fit that requirement to the "T". We had fun with them exploring the park, and they were great about following our suggestions, no matter how cheesy. These images, though, are not cheesy at all, but reflect a beautiful young couple who are in love and ready to get married!




Lauren and Tim met while in college at Washington State University, and we made sure they got some pics while wearing t-shirts from their alma mater.




Lauren and Tim, I'm glad we were finally able to hook up with you guys and get your engagement pictures taken, and I hope you have enjoyed this preview. We look forward with you to your wedding, just a few weeks from now! Blessings to you!

We were guests!

Today our family had the rare pleasure of being guests at the wedding of my cousin's son Ben and his lovely bride Sally. In one sense, it was a different experience in that there was no pressure on us to capture their day, but yet that didn't stop me from thinking about all the wonderful photo opportunities before me. It soon became apparent I wasn't alone in this sentiment...my mom was also a guest at the wedding, and I think she caught more action with her new digital camera than I did! This is my mom photographing the action behind me...

...and here she is in action with the bride and groom. I think I must take after her!

This is what I love about weddings...being re-united with family that I haven't seen in years. I finally was able to persuade my mom to set down her camera long enough so that I could take a few pictures of her with my dad, my uncle and my aunts.

So not only are weddings a great time for reunions, they're also a great time to meet new family members! This is my cousin David's granddaughter, Elena. She has the most expressive eyes and the cutest dimples!

Here's Elena with her mom, Kate, and her big brother Christian.


I couldn't quit without inserting a picture of the bride and groom...

...and one of Gabriel and myself. Sweet!

Family session with Brad and Jill

Friday afternoon the girls and I were invited to hang out with Brad and Jill and their two adorable boys, Oliver and Phineas. Our goal was to capture this beautiful family in their own home environment, surrounded by things familiar as they enjoyed the afternoon together. We were introduced to the world of toddler boys...cars and trains, books, stuffed animals, dirt, t-ball, sand and slides...it was non-stop motion and exploration. They were so sweet and excited as they ran from room to room to show us their treasures. Here's a peek into their world...








Brad and Jill, I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into your family life. We have so much more to share with you...be blessed!

Chelsea's Senior Pictures at the Botanical Gardens

This afternoon the girls and I hooked up with Chelsea at the Bellevue Botanical Gardens for her senior pictures. It was such a beautiful summer day - a welcome change from the wet and rainy weather we've had for the past week. The gardens were a perfect choice for Chelsea's pictures - a lot of variety and scenic beauty as the backdrop for a truly beautiful senior girl.

I usually bring an extra camera along to photo shoots, and let Ashley or Alyssa work as my "second shooter" to get their own shots. This picture was taken by Ashley...and it's now apparent that I need to bring three cameras with me, as both girls had more fun taking pictures than they did in helping me with lighting or carrying equipment.

We tried to mix it up by having Chelsea give us some motion shots...fun!

I suggested that we drive the short distance to an Azteca restaurant nearby, a place that is the perfect spot for outdoor portraits. We had just been there a few weeks ago with Rachel and Richard on their wedding day, and I couldn't wait to go back and explore it once again. The natural lighting illuminated Chelsea perfectly.

Chelsea, I hope you enjoyed this sneak peek from your senior session. It was fun to spend the afternoon with you! These were just a few of my favorites from the day, and I look forward to sharing the rest with you soon. Be blessed!

Surprise! Happy 60th Birthday Hylan!

Okay, I know what you must be thinking...this is not the picture of a 60 year old man! Tonight we had the fun of surprising - actually surprising! - our pastor for his 60th birthday. Since he was a little late getting to the party, I kept myself occupied by taking pictures of the cutest kids while we waited. This is Abby - isn't she adorable?


All right, back to the party - this is what Hylan didn't see: Gabriel warming up a group to surprise Hylan as he came around the corner. Did it work?
Ummm....the answer is "yes!" This is Hylan as it's beginning to register what he's seeing...
...and this is his reaction after the realization has set in!
Hylan's kids gave him a serenade in song...

Hylan's family gathered to pray special blessings over his life.
Big props go to Hylan's wife, Rita, for pulling off an event so huge and keeping it a surprise to the very end.
We were glad to be part of this memorable day in your life, Hylan! Now we can share with you in the re-telling of this event in the years to come. You are a blessing to us and we are privileged to consider you an extension of our own family. Happy 60th!

Carolina's Bridal Shower

Today was one long celebration! We started out the day celebrating with a bridal shower for Carolina, who in just a few short weeks will be marrying Israel...a friend of our family and a really cool guy. (Where are the smilie icons when you need them?) The shower took place in Carolina's new home - it's easy to spot what her favorite colors are! Carolina with Israel's older sister, Hahnna and younger sister, Eliza...

It is so apparent the love and pride Carolina's mother Betty has for her only child. Her camera was put to good use documenting Carolina's day.

Carolina, I'm watching your countdown run off the days - what is it, 42 days left? Your wedding day will be here so soon, and we're looking forward with you to the incredible celebration as you become Israel's wife. Blessings to you!

Rachel and Richard's Wedding

Our family has known Rachel since she was a senior in high school, and she is a very special part of our lives. Many years ago, long before I owned a photography business, her mom Brenda told me that one day I would be photographing her daughter's wedding. I didn't believe those words then, but time has proven Brenda correct! It was an honor and a privilege to be allowed to document Rachel's wedding day. Gabriel and I prayed that God would give us His creativity as we captured images that would bless this family, and we were so amazed at the results that followed.

Rachel getting ready:


There is a fantastic wooded area just steps outside of Rachel's home. We were doing so good on time, I couldn't help but walk her there for a few fun shots to warm up!

Rachel and Rich allowed us to choose the location where the would first see each other before the ceremony began. After much thought, we chose the Downtown Bellevue Park - usually a place alive with activity on a Saturday's summer afternoon, but this secluded area remained deserted the entire time we were there. It was absolutely perfect!




Not satisfied with one location, I had scouted out an Azteca restaurant nearby that had gorgeous stucco walls and soft, natural light. With Rachel's Spanish-inspired veil, it was the perfect place for photos.
Alyssa showed me this image she captured of Rachel, just as Rachel was walking away. I think it could be a magazine cover...



Rachel had long desired to get married at her grandmother's home in Bellevue, that has beautiful sweeping views of Lake Sammamish and the surrounding mountains. I remember being skeptical at first when I heard how many people would be there, but I'm so glad to say I was completely wrong. It was absolutely the perfect location for Rachel - filled with nostalgic memories and a comforting environment, the beauty that encompassed the home couldn't have been sweeter.

As part of their wedding ceremony, Rachel and Rich wanted to take part in a biblical custom of washing each other's feet - a very humbling act.



Rachel and Rich were covered by a prayer shawl, the talit, as they were covered in prayer by Rachel's dad, Bryan.







Richard and Rachel, thank you for inviting us to walk alongside of you during this time in your lives - for allowing us to speak into your lives in pre-marital counseling sessions, and for entrusting us to preserve memories of your day in images. We will continue to pray for you throughout your married life. May the joy, love, laughter and friendship you experienced on your wedding day carry with you all your years together!