John had to work a lot this weekend, but he took a couple short breaks to get outside with the kids and it was so nice! Ava threw a massive tantrum the entire drive to this hike … kicking, screaming, possessed-looking red face. It was BAD. John and I just had to laugh it was so ridiculous! She was screaming that she didn’t want to go to the mountain and just wanted to stay home. Of course, once we got there she loved every minute of it! Her and Tess climbed every rock, picked acorns, looked for squirrels and sniffed every flower. They didn’t want to leave. Toddlers are funny (and by funny, I mean completely frustrating).
slc family photographer
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.
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.
Desert Family Session + Player-Timmons Family
Desert family sessions are one of my favs for sure! The kids love them too because afterwards they have a blast climbing all the rocks! This location is so close to where I grew up and we still spend time here for picnics and Easter camping.
Shannon was a good friend of my mom’s; they bonded over their mutual love of yarn and crocheting. Anyone that had a place in my mom’s heart, has a place in mine. Shannon hand-dyes and spins her own yarn and she is so talented! You can check out her gorgeous creations here. Thanks for giving me the chance to capture your beautiful family. I love this session!
[Read more…] about Desert Family Session + Player-Timmons Family
Ava is 3!
My Ava girl. I can’t believe you are already three. I’m not sure how it seems to happen so quickly. Sometimes when I look at you, I can’t wrap my mind around how big you are. You are so funny, sweet, determined and as stubborn as your mamma. You bring so much joy into our family! I love watching you be such a good big sister (when you aren’t picking on her haha). When you randomly give her hugs and kisses and tell her “I love you” it melts my heart.
You had to have a Batman birthday cake, but you have never even seen Batman so we aren’t sure where that came from. It’s hilarious because you say “Fatman” instead haha. You were dressed as Batman and fighting bad guys one minute and dressed as a princess playing mommy the next. I never dreamed I would have such a girly girl. You love putting on “lips” and “wakeup” while I’m getting ready. I love all your little quirks! You were spoiled by everyone at your party and are so loved my everyone you meet.
Also, everyone was right about three being a difficult age. It started a little early…. so pray for me! Happy Birthday pretty girl!
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).
Fall Lovin’ + Personal Post
I got a little behind on editing my personal work. I finally caught up and thought I would share some of my favorites from this fall. Man, this family of mine is cute!
