I was lucky enough to photograph Elena and her adorable kids last year (see that session here). Her husband was deployed and she wanted updated family pictures to send to him. They are so sweet! I loved being able to see them again and their daddy got to join them this time! Yay! Kids grow and change so quickly… it’s fun to see them each year.
photo and design by mad
Gines family + snow basin
Motherhood. It’s intense, difficult, exhausting, incredible, fulfilling, joyful, heartbreaking, challenging, messy, and a million other things. I think all mothers wonder if they are doing it right, get confused about where to go for help and information. There are so many conflicting opinions out there when it comes to parenting. Just remember we all screw up at times but we are doing our best. Give yourself grace. Kids are so loving and can forgive in an instant. It seems they give us endless chances to get it right, love unconditionally and continue to look up to us. Kids are the best. I know none of us are perfect, but this beautiful mamma might be the exception…. She is so involved, loving, present and selfless despite life’s challenges (that we all have). She has an Instagram account under @thisnewlifeofmine_ (you can find her blog there too) where she shares respectful parenting, kindness, her adorable kids, great tips, and support for other parents of kids with disabilities (or rather different abilities). I look up to her and love how positive she stays!
My husband and I met Addison and Jenna about 6 years ago, well before either of us added sweet babies to our families. We were all living in Logan at the time, but didn’t meet until we moved to Little Rock, Arkansas for summer sales. Funny how life works. I’m grateful they gave me the opportunity to photograph their beautiful family!
The simple things
Bought a bubble machine today. It was a good choice. I love summer.
Personal + Camping
We went camping over the 4th of July and it was so great and so dirty. I have never seen my kids get so dirty! They were actually pouring buckets of dirt on their own heads. Toddler heaven! I only pulled out my camera once, but I took some cute videos on my phone and I’m working on making them into a home video. I’m definitely not a pro, but it has been so fun to make something meaningful out of all the random videos on my phone. I will share when it’s finished!
Petersen Family + Cleveland, UT
I absolutely love when I get to photograph people from my home town! Cleveland is tiny, and off the beaten path and it will always have my heart. Brooke also grew up in Cleveland, moved away for a bit, and now she and her gorgeous family moved back and built a beautiful home together. I hope to move my own family back there someday. Brooke is so easy to work with and the whole family made this session fun and easy! Their oldest will be leaving on an LDS mission to Arkansas soon and he is pretty excited (his mom isn’t talking about it). I loved documenting their family dynamic how it is right now. It will be so fun for them to look back on when things have changed and the little ones have grown. Thanks Petersen family and good luck on your mission Brans!
I visit Emery County often, so if you are interested in booking a session don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions you have!
Fromm Family + Saltair
My husband went to high school with Casey, but this was the first time I met him and his wife Kendra. They immediately felt like old friends and I had a blast hanging out with them and meeting their little guy, Stone. He was THE sweetest! I don’t think I have ever photographed a more cooperative one-year-old. He was a dream and was giving me hugs by the end of the session. I loved watching them interact with each other. You can just see how much they treasure Stone. And I mean, who wouldn’t? Just look at the handsome little guy!
Sophia Faye+ in-home newborn session
Sophia Faye. Sophie. The cutest name to go with the cutest little babe. I’m so grateful to this family for inviting me into their home at this time in their lives. Bringing home your first baby is magic. Exhausting, but magic nonetheless. I can already tell Sophie is going to be an independent girl because she made us work hard to get those sleeping shots, but it paid off! There is nothing sweeter and more angelic than a sleeping baby. These new parents are doing a great job! They were patient and so smitten with their fresh little babe. Capturing this new little family in their space made my heart sing! They grow up fast, so I hope they can look back on these photos and remember all the little details of this time.
Sisters on Valentines
These two have been sick, tired and therefore cranky for the past couple weeks. I know they don’t feel well, but some days all the whining and crying and not sleeping just pushes me until I feel like I can’t do it. They can be so hot and cold. Tackling each other and stealing toys one minute and then cuddling and giving each other kisses the next. They are so sweet at times, it feels like my heart can’t soak up any more love. These photos were taken in less than five minutes and the girls went through the whole range of emotions haha… it captures their relationship perfectly! Man they sure are cute!
I always wondered who actually bought these giant stuffed animals on valentines… turns out it’s uncles that love their nieces a lot (and don’t care about where mom is going to keep them).
Favorite Things + Skincare
I decided I would share a few of my favorite things with you. I found most of them because someone else shared them with me, so I thought I would do the same. Up first is skincare. I have always struggled with my skin. I had horrible acne as a teenager and still break out often. I’m still searching for solutions, so it’s a work in progress. What has helped me the most is keeping everything that touches my face clean. I wash my pillowcase often, wash my hands before cleansing or doing my makeup, use clean washcloths and towel to dry, and clean my makeup brushes weekly.
First off, I use one of these washcloths to wash my face and another one to pat it dry. They are so soft! I just ordered these ones too, but haven’t tried them yet. I’m not sharing a cleanser because I haven’t found one I love yet, so if you have any suggestions please share!
Comer Family + in-home session
The Comer family. So sweet and laid back. It turns out, our families are at similar places in our lives… both been married 5 years with two kids almost the same ages. Down the road I’m thinking we could set up their boys with my girls! I think it would be perfect… my husband would probably fight me on it though. I don’t think he will ever let them date, but maybe he will make an exception for adorable Sonny and Wells?
I love the way Brinley decorated her home, so simple and modern. It was right up my alley! It really allows their personalities and love for each other shine through. And Brinley’s style! If it wasn’t for her cute kids, her overalls would have stolen the show! I saw so many qualities in them as parents that I hope I can emulate with my girls. Sometimes family pictures can stress parents out (especially when toddlers are involved haha), but they were just easy going, lovey, patient and playful the whole time. I could spend the rest of my life only photographing moms and their babies and I would be completely content. When you see the look on Brin’s face, you’ll see why. Pure love and adoration. It’s just so good! And it’s all that really matters.
