kylie danielson photography

Holden's Seventh Month

2012-01-24T06:16:00.000-08:00

Holden is seven months old. This month has flown by with Christmas break and the random snow break last week. As I have said many times, everything is better with him. Even being without power for 2 days. Harder for sure, but still better.

He is officially in 12 month clothes and is up to 20 pounds. His new trick this month is sitting up. He is still a little tipsy but he is very proud of himself. He has the best deep, belly laugh. I am pretty sure it is one of the greatest sounds in the world!

Sitting up with a little accident insurance behind him.

Mommy was really happy to get a snow vacation from school. Let's see if I am this happy come late June. " )
Peek-a-boo!

He was doing his usual trick of trying to roll away while I was changing his diaper. It was not intended to be a photo opportunity, but he was just too cute!

And because I don't carry the big camera with me everywhere like I should, a few from my phone.
My favorite part of the day is coming home and snuggling him. He usually takes a nap right when I get off work so this is prime snuggle time! " )
His first Lakewood snow. In the second picture he was actually asleep in the snow. It's hard work!
Holden, I have loved every stage so far and have not yet told you to slow down. I think we are getting to that point. Mommy is not ready for a super mobile baby. You just keep sitting and being cute for a while. Crawling can wait! " )

Yes, I still take pictures!

2012-01-17T09:15:00.001-08:00

I am extremely behind on updating the blog with things other than Holden. Instead of spending an entire day devoted to blogging all that I am behind, I am just going to do an overview of all that has been happening since...August! Yeah, super behind. Sorry.

This is Curtis. We did some delayed senior pictures this summer.
And Alex, a Steilacoom High School senior.
I second shot for my friend Becca at this wedding for Jessica and Tyler in September.
This little bundle is baby Jameson. He is 3 months old today. These were his newborn pictures.
And here is Jameson's family. The first photo is of his Uncle Daniel, Auntie Veronica, and cousin Deric. The second is Jameson with his parents, Monica and Chris.
This is Kyle, another 2012 senior.
The new Mr. & Mrs. Harwood. They were married on 11.11.11.
This is Henry. He is the little brother of Jack.
Owen and his little sister Ellison. How cute are they?
This was an amazing event. The night was dedicated to Melanie and her 5 year mark of surviving pancreatic cancer. Less than 6% of people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer make it to the 5 year mark. During the event, they surprised all their guests with a wedding! It was a wonderful celebration to be a part of!
The McKee family with their new puppy Jerry.
The Robson-Howell Family.
And Riley's little sister, Addison.
Hopefully, I will resume regular, full length blog posts in the future. " )

Holden's Sixth Month

2011-12-25T11:04:00.000-08:00

My little man is half of a year old! It is amazing how when you are a kid, time seems to move so slow, and the older you get, the faster it goes. Everyone told me this would happen, and they were totally right. Time SHOOTS BY when you have a kid! I don't think six months has ever passed by so fast, but then again, I don't think I have ever marked each month with such importance as I do now.

Holden's six month "birthday" was on Christmas Eve. We had a relaxing Christmas eve, with only one family stop that day. Here are his typically monthly photos. " )

This month, Holden has mastered the art of rolling for a purpose. If he wants something, he rolls to it. If he doesn't want anything, he still rolls. This is his new trick and he is mighty proud of it! It also makes diaper changes more of a sport for mommy and daddy!

His little mohawk of hair is stilling growing more than anything else, but he is finally getting a little more on the sides. No, we did not cut it like that. " )
(The back of his head is still flat!)

Grandma High bought him this Christmas Tree outfit a few months ago. It was sized 6-12 months. We had to cut out the bottom so he could fit into it!

At his 6 month appointment, he was 73rd percentile for weight and 96th percentile for height. John and I are not tall people. We don't know where that comes from!
Auntie Teaira got him his first Christmas Ornament. I LOVE it!
I don't know if this angry face is because he couldn't taste the candy cane through the plastic, or that he could...
Opening Christmas presents with Uncle Kasey and Auntie CiCi.
The best part of any day - baby snuggles! This was after six Christmas stops in 24 hours. We were both tired and enjoyed Grandpa's rocking chair.
Happy half year nugget! You make life better and we are so lucky to get to love you!

Holden's Fifth Month & Xmas Tree Hunting!

2011-11-24T11:05:00.000-08:00

I usually decorate for Christmas around Veteran's Day. This year I was extra late and decorated like a normal person after Thanksgiving. Holden was also 5 months old on Thanksgiving day. I have been decorating him for the season for many weeks though!

This month, Holden is still working on rolling over (belly to back is easy but back to belly is still hard...I think it is the large head!) He is exploring things more and loves to giggle and bounce. He keeps getting more and more fun! I have loved having a four day weekend with him and cannot wait until Christmas break!

Baby Santa!
On Friday, we trekked into the mountains and snow to hunt down Holden's first Christmas tree. After lots of driving, pulling other people out of the snow, and John and his brother scaling the mountain, we came home with a giant 12 foot, somewhat silly looking Christmas tree!

Cousins Owen and Carson loved the snow!

Otis got to come too because he loves snow!

And of course, my monthly photoshoot where I dress Holden in ridiculous things that John says he will hate me for when he is older!

I noticed that his cheeks are definitely fuller than they were in his four month shoot. He is wearing 9 month clothes and they are pretty snug. His uncle BJ has nicknamed him "Heavy Duty!"
And in honor of Apple Cup...
Love you little bug! You just keep getting better and better!

Gomez Family :: Puyallup Family Photography

2011-11-22T18:50:00.000-08:00

Meet Jacob and his parents Megan and Max! We met at Picha Pumpkin Patch for some seasonal fun last month and some updated family pictures. Jacob is so fun, giggly, and interested in everything!

This was right before Max deployed. I so admire the strength of military men and their families. I also love how much this daddy loves his baby!

Here's to a quick and safe deployment and a reunion very soon! " )

Holden's Fourth Month

2011-10-24T21:20:00.000-07:00

Well, we survived our first month of "real life". I have been back at work for 4 weeks and although I am super lucky to have a job I love, I still cannot stand being away from this little dude. This month has not been without tears (mostly from this 26 year old) but we are figuring things out and settling into a routine. One thing is for sure, being a mom keeps getting better as he grows! Holden is now 26 inches long, 16 pounds 6 ounces, and is working on his two bottom front teeth! Almost all of October he has been sleeping from 9pm until I wake him up at 6:45am every morning. We feel extremely blessed to have him in our lives.

Being a lady who loves all things red and green, I stocked up on baby Christmas gear last year while Holden was still brewing. Holden is a little large for his age, so all his 6 months clothes that I predicted would fit around the holidays are quickly becoming too small. Thus, he is rocking some x-mas pajamas even sooner than this crazy Christmas lady intended. Not complaining though...he looks great in red and green!

Smiling at daddy, of course!
And now for the more season appropriate holiday, Holden's Halloween costume. Thank you Jayme for the adorable hand-me-down!

Dombroski Family :: Lakewood Family Photography

2011-10-24T19:45:00.000-07:00

The Dombroski family is so stinkin cute! I took pictures of them two years ago and it is crazy how much the girls have changed. It reminds me how important it is to take family pictures while Holden is little because before you know if, they are HUGE (thank you Becca Rich for doing just that for me!)

Thank you Andrea and Terry for letting us spend a Saturday afternoon with your family. It really is so fun to watch your little ladies grow. " )

Bader Baby :: Tacoma Maternity Photography

2011-10-17T20:21:00.000-07:00

I love these two! Monica and Chris are friends and family. They are wonderful, hilarious, sincere people who are currently at the hospital getting ready to welcome a little man who I am sure will be just as amazing as his parents! John and Chris always joke (at least I take it as a joke, I think they are serious) that they are part of a wolf pack. In June, their "pack" grew with the addition of Holden and within a few short hours, it will grow again to add baby Jameson!

Monica, Chris, and Jameson...we love you! Holden is on pins and needles waiting for his cousin!
Here's to a quick, safe, and pain free delivery and some pretty pictures of some awesome people while we wait!

Upcoming Photography Hiatus

2011-10-09T20:07:00.000-07:00

Life has sure gotten hectic! This last week was my first week back to my "real" job with a baby. It went really well and I really like the group of 2nd and 3rd graders that I will be teaching, but MAN I missed my kid! I have been mulling around the idea of taking a break from photography since I had Holden, but staying at home I was still able to do what I needed to. Now that I am spending my working hours with a bunch of little people, photography is back to my side job and thus taking up my nights and weekends. I have decided that in order to be the best mommy and wife I can, I will have to limit how many sessions/weddings I take on and how often.

So here is my decision: I am going to stop all sessions/weddings for the end of the year after November 13th. I will most likely resume sessions after the first of the year, 2012. November and December are usually really busy photo times with people getting ready for holiday cards, so if you would like to book a session, do it quick! This way, I can focus on my little family and my favorite time of the year!

Feel free to contact me to schedule sessions in the future, or if you need someone during those months, I can always refer some awesome photographers. Thanks all!

And because blog posts are always better with pictures, here are some from our family trip to Cannon Beach last week to celebrate the last bit of my maternity leave. Love my boys!

Random naked baby running on the beach!
Snuggle boys!

Holden's first photo booth at Voodoo Donuts in Portland. Note how creepy my husband looks in the second set, second picture down!
And a couple instax minis...

Ashlyn & Kelan :: Lakewood Children Photography

2011-09-29T19:45:00.000-07:00

My oh my...these kids are darling!

This is Ashlyn and she just became a big sister in August.
She is a beauty!

And this little man is Kelan. He was born weighing in at just a little under 6 pounds and was such a peanut.

Ashlyn loved running away from me and my suitcase prop. Kelan was annoyed with us until we figured out all he wanted was a good swaddle. " )
Heart melting cuteness!

She could have pushed this thing around all day!

Holy cuteness batman!

September 24th :: Holden's Third Month

2011-09-24T14:12:00.000-07:00

My little man is three months old!

Sleeping on daddy.
No arm rolls yet but his belly is looking a little chunky!

A trick Holden has mastered this month is laughing. I don't think there is a better feeling in the world then listening to him laugh, especially when John is making him giggle continuously. John is singing to him and Holden is laughing at him as I type. Love it!
His eyes are turning from dark blue to brown. He is going to take after daddy and not mommy.
This month, Holden loves his feet. He thinks they are so funny, especially in his own mouth.
This is my last week of maternity leave. I am not ready to be gone from my little man for so many hours a day. We are very lucky that Holden will be with family while I am working, but I am still sad it isn't me. " ( Luckily, I get lots of holidays and summers off. Here's to Christmas coming quickly!

Love you baby boy!

Laura + Joe :: Seattle Wedding Photography

2011-09-22T17:40:00.000-07:00

Laura + Joe are married!

First look.

Axes and bouquets.
Lake Union Cafe.

Joe tried to kiss her mid-ceremony. He couldn't wait!

Laura & Joe, thank you so much for letting me be a part of your wedding day. I love how excited everyone was for the two of them. There was so much love for them and I feel lucky to have shared such a beautiful Saturday with you both!

Michael :: Tacoma Senior Photography

2011-09-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

It's senior season if you haven't noticed! This handsome lad is Mikey. His mother was my first grade teacher and has since become a close family friend. Even though I am 26 years old, she will always be Mrs. Schwartze to me! I had a great time hanging out with the two of them for Mikey's senior session.

Taylor :: Tacoma Senior Photography

2011-09-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

This beautiful lady is Taylor. She is John's cousin and an amazing fastpitch player. She is absolutely stunning and so easy to photograph. Here's to an amazing senior year!

Anthony :: University Place Senior Photography

2011-09-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

Meet Anthony, another 2012 Senior. Anthony's girlfriend Katelyn was one of my 2011 seniors so she came along for the shoot.

Mikayla :: University Place Senior Photography

2011-09-12T13:19:00.000-07:00

The lovely Mikayla...

August 24th :: Holden's Second Month

2011-08-24T18:54:00.000-07:00

Holden is already two months old! He is smiling, laughing, and weighs 12 pounds 12 ounces as of this morning. He keeps getting better.
I bought this little bear outfit for my nephew Carson when he was born. Since Holden was born in June, he never really got to wear it outside the air conditioned house but I wanted to get a few pictures of him in it.

A cute hat Grandma High got him while he was still brewing...
His Chip'n Dale look...
My current favorite onesie.
And Holden's favorite things: the ceiling fan (only when on), his hands which he loves to suck on (and I love too since he won't take a pacifier), and an owl that sits above his changing table.
Love you buggy!

Avery Ann :: Bellevue Newborn Photography

2011-08-21T16:28:00.000-07:00

Avery Ann is the daughter of my good friends Kasey and Sean. She was born just shy of 5 weeks after Holden and I am sure we will force them to be friends once they can hold up their own heads! " )

These headbands were made by my cousin Lora. Check out here etsy shop for more cuteness!

And last, we had to get one of them together. Avery is a little skeptical of this giant baby next to her!

Candice + Wes :: University Place Wedding Photography

2011-08-18T20:43:00.000-07:00

Candice and Wes got married on a beautiful July evening at the Environmental Services Building in University Place. Even though our summer weather has been less than summery, they had a perfect evening for a wedding.

Candice has the BEST laugh and she laughs often. I had such a hard time limiting the pictures for this post because she is so beautiful and happy in every photo!

Candice and Wes opted to wait and see each other the traditional way. It has been a long time since I shot a wedding where they didn't see each other before hand. I love Wes's reaction to Candice walking down the isle with her dad and step-dad.

Dancing down the isle!
Love those smiles!

I had to add these in. Wes got emotional when dancing with his mom and it made Becca and me cry like babies! I cannot handle it when grooms get emotional. I lose it. Luckily I can hide behind my camera!
Thank you to Becca with second shooting for me again and to my awesome friend Shannon for watching Holden on my first wedding back. Love you both!

July 24th :: Holden's First Month

2011-07-24T19:07:00.001-07:00

Today is Holden's one month birthday. Here are a few of my favorites from his first month of life.

First bath. First Fourth of July. Daddy with a baby and a beer, mommy looking tired! Two of the three dog friends checking him out. This is my current favorite outfit so I made sure to get a few before he grows out of it. He melts me!

Holden Lee Danielson

2011-07-07T09:25:00.000-07:00

After 41 weeks of waiting, our son is here.

Holden Lee was born at 12:48pm on June 24th, 2011. It is hard to believe that he will be two weeks already tomorrow. The days all blend together right now, but the lack of sleep is totally worth it.

I took these pictures when he was four days old. It is crazy how fast they grow. He already looks so different to me (his cheeks are getting chubby!)

Thank you Auntie CiCi for the cute dinosaur hat!

And Grandma High for the little bow tie! " )

Holden...we love you very much and are so thankful that you have made us parents!

Also, my husband is AMAZING! Just sayin'! " )

Allison + Kyle :: Alderbrook Wedding Photography

2011-06-21T13:02:00.001-07:00

Allison + Kyle were married over memorial day weekend at Alderbrook Resort in Union, Wa. It was a beautiful day filled with family and friends.
Allison's flowers smelled AMAZING...
and she was absolutely stunning!

Peyton One Year :: Lakewood Family Photography

2011-06-04T16:33:00.000-07:00

Peyton only gets cuter! I took pictures of Peyton when she was 2 months old and got to spend a little bit more time with her on Monday, a week before she turns 1.

Time goes by so fast but Peyton only gets cuter with time. Happy first birthday Peyton!

Andrew + Liz :: Lakewood Wedding Photography

2011-05-19T21:36:00.000-07:00

Andrew and Liz have been together for 11 years. She was very excited to become Mrs. Imholt, as was Andrew to make Liz his wife.

Liz and Andrew had doughnuts for dessert. They were amazing! Liz also hundreds of paper cranes. They turned out beautifully!

John spent the afternoon in the board room with the guys...
This was my favorite part of their wedding. You would have never known they have been together for 11 years when watching them during their first look. They were both so excited and nervous to see each other for the first time that day. One of the many reasons I love first looks. It was a time for the two of them to hang out and enjoy each other before the hectic part of the wedding day started.

" )

Bergen :: Spokane Newborn Photography

2011-05-13T20:14:00.000-07:00

Bergen is the beautiful daughter of my college roommate and good friend, Alex. I don't think I have known anyone that was more excited to be a mom than Alex. I remember many times coming home from class to her watching A Birth Story on TLC. She is the only person I have ever met who could watch someone in labor and say, "I can't wait!" Bergen is so lucky to come into the world to two parents who were so thrilled to have her.

We made the trek to Spokane to meet baby Bergen when she was about a month old. She was perfect, sleepy, and oh so cute! She made John excited for his own snuggle partner who will be here in about 5 weeks. " )

Thank you Alex and Steve for making such a beautiful little lady. Can't wait to introduce her to Holden this summer!

How perfect is that face?!

Jen + Zach :: Lakewood Wedding Photography

2011-04-27T19:59:00.000-07:00

Catching up on blogging...

Jen and Zach had a beautiful wedding last month. I loved how relaxed everyone was. It makes such a difference when the bride and the people around her are calm and enjoying themselves. It was altogether a beautiful day, complete with sunshine in March. " )

Anderson Family :: Round 3!

2011-04-01T08:59:00.000-07:00

I have had the pleasure of watching the Anderson family grow over the last few years. I first took pictures when Kyra was just a little nugget and then again when she was a couple months older. Kyra is now two and the Andersons have moved their family to Wyoming. I was given the opportunity to see them again over a short visit to rainy Western Washington to see family and pick up their pups. Thank you Matt, Julie, and Kyra for letting me document the seasons in your lives. I look forward to watching your family grow. " )

White Family :: Lakewood Family Photography

2011-03-20T10:15:00.001-07:00

Meet the White family. We have been long time family friends and in honor of Lyn's birthday, we met in Steilacoom for a family session.
It was great to spend a little time on a sunny afternoon with all of you. " )

Laura + Joe :: Seattle Engagement Photography

2011-03-06T16:49:00.000-08:00

This is Laura (and me) in 2006. We met when we were both recruitment counselors for the UW sorority system before our senior year of college. We walked around the greek community for a week and I got to know Laura pretty well sitting outside of houses, waiting for events to end. This was about a week before John proposed.

I hadn't seen Laura since college. Being that we have been out of college for almost four years, (man, that makes me feel old!) a lot has changed. I am now married and having a little dude in a couple months, and shortly after that, I get to shoot Laura's wedding!

This is Laura now with her fiance Joe. They are getting married in August. We started at Laura's sorority (her and Joe met in the greek system) and then went onto campus for the rest of our session. It was so great to see Laura and to meet Joe. Looking forward to their wedding this summer!

Ellison :: Olympia Newborn Photography

2011-03-06T16:36:00.001-08:00

Ellison is the adorable creation of Jenn and Ryan and baby sister to Owen. She is happy when she is fed and so we kept her belly full. I couldn't get over her many expressions and long black hair. She is simply adorable. " )

Smiles.

And tongue.

Keller Wedding :: 100th Blog Post!

2011-03-06T14:38:00.001-08:00

Shannon and Keith got married on September 11th, 2010. That was also the day that they started dating...when they were in middle school.

Shannon is a really good friend of mine. We met when we were getting our masters at UWT. Shannon is my most faithful (and sometimes only) blog reader. She is always the first person to say something about every session I post and she checks this blog even when I tell her I have nothing new to add. Although I am super delayed in showing her wedding photos, I thought it only appropriate that Keith and Shannon be my 100th blog post.

Sorry for taking forever Shannon! " )

I talked Shannon into getting these shoes at her bachelorette party and I think they turned out wonderful. " )

They surprised their guests with a choreographed dance for their 1st dance. This is one of MANY awesome dance photos!

Candice + Wes :: Tacoma Engagement Photography

2011-02-20T20:21:00.000-08:00

I really love shooting engagements. Mostly for selfish reasons. They are by far the easiest thing to shoot in my opinion. Couples are so happy and in love and they can just play together and I shoot away. There isn't the pressure of the wedding day, although I do love shooting weddings, so couples are usually more easy going and down for fun. I also love getting to know couples through their engagement pictures. Wes and Candice had so much to laugh about and were so lighthearted. I just got to giggle along with them.

We started our session on Ruston Way and ended at Chambers on a beautiful but very windy January day. The blanket came in handy and turned out to in be some of my favorites from the day. Looking forward to their wedding on a much warmer day this July. " )

Something about all the old structures at Chambers reminds me of LOST. I like them.

Candice + Wes :: Preview

2011-02-16T21:42:00.001-08:00

Not usually big on previews, mostly because I never find the time but I am working through this engagement session and I had to share. " )

Etsy Product Photography :: KWDE Jewlery

2011-02-14T19:20:00.000-08:00

My cousin Kat is a talented graphic designer. She has an Etsy shop and makes beautiful jewelry and adorable hair pieces. You can browse all the items she has for sale here. I did the product photography for her items so you can check the photos out while you browse all the pretty things she has to offer. Also, if you haven't checked out etsyyet, get on that! It is awesome. " )

Morgan + Brian :: Steilacoom Engagement Photography

2011-02-12T18:03:00.000-08:00

Morgan and Brian are getting married in June, the day after my due date. Since we all know how unpredictable babies can be, Morgan and Brian will have the very talented Julie Harmsen taking their wedding pictures. We spent some time in Steilacoom this January when Brian got back from deployment getting some engagement photos. Morgan and Brian have so much fun together and kept me laughing throughout the session. Enjoy the sequel to their save the dates from fall. " )

Yarkosky Family :: Tacoma Family Photography

2010-12-31T14:35:00.000-08:00

Kelly, Matt, and little Jack did not get so lucky with our November weather. It rained on us, as you would expect from fall in Washington. We made the best of it and were able to get some good family shots just in time for Jack's first birthday.

I love his eyes in this one. " )

Cappel Family Round 3 :: Tacoma Family Photography

2010-12-31T12:21:00.000-08:00

The Cappels are another family that have allowed me to photograph them as the years go by. I first met Charlie when he was a baby and was smitten with his big blue eyes. We did another session when he was one. He is now over 2 but still has the best blue eyes! We went to Wright Park on a perfect November day, even though the forecast said rain all week. Could not have turned out better.

LOVE this one!

Tveten Family :: Lakewood Family Photography

2010-12-30T12:09:00.000-08:00

William is my cousin, Jennifer is his beautiful wife, and Lliam and Luke are their little men. The Tvetens just moved back to Washington after being stationed in Georgia and it was been so amazing to have William back and to get to know his family better over the last six months. I feel very grateful to have them close and Christmas with these little boys was so fun. Never a dull moment. " )

Vincent :: 2011 Senior Photography

2010-12-30T11:52:00.001-08:00

Vincent is a senior at Lakes and played football with Kyle. This November, we met a Wright Park and UWT for his senior session. The weather was perfect and the fall leaves could not have been better. Best wishes for an awesome end to your senior year and in your future Vincent! " )

My favorite one from our session...

Audette Family Round 2 :: Tacoma Family Photography

2010-12-30T11:36:00.000-08:00

Last time I photographed the Audette family, Jennifer was pregnant with Katelin. It was time to update their family pictures now that Katelin is here. This time, they included the extended family as well, including new cousin Jonathan. Here is the expanding Audette clan. " )

Taylor Family Round 3 :: Steilacoom Family Photography

2010-12-30T11:26:00.000-08:00

This was the 3rd time I have had the honor of photographing the Taylor family. It is so fun to watch families grow through the years and I am thankful that Jim and Jayme have let me be a part of their families stages. Here is their family when Landon was just a bun and again when he was a newborn. Enjoy the Taylor family. " )

Erwin, Gwynne, & Evelyn :: Lakewood Family Photography

2010-12-30T11:11:00.000-08:00

Erwin went to high school with John. Erwin and Gwynne got married a week before we did. This summer, I did some maternity pictures of them while Evelyn was still brewing in Gwynne's belly. Good thing we did them early because Evelyn made her way into the world about a week later (a month early). John came along with me for their maternity session which was awesome because he makes an excellent clown. Any pictures where they are cracking up, you can thank John. " )

Evelyn has had a rough start but she is getting healthier as the weeks go by. We were able to get her newborn session in while she was feeling better. She was so little and a perfect size for all my baby props!

Much overdue, here is the Reguindin family!

Riley :: Bellevue Newborn Photography

2010-11-22T17:25:00.000-08:00

It is baby season. Or everyone is just making babies lately. Either way, I have been taking pictures of them more than anything else.

Baby Riley is cousins with little Peyton. He was so content during our entire session. He just stared at me, smiled, and hung out. He made it pretty easy.
His parents had an awesome rug in his nursery that looked like grass. Here he is just lounging in the grass. " )
And his little toes...

Happy little family!

Felix IV :: Lakewood Newborn Photography

2010-11-17T07:59:00.000-08:00

Baby Felix was born in late September. I had the pleasure of meeting him two weeks after he was welcomed into the world. His dad is a police officer so he has a very cute police themed room.

Look at those eyes. " )
Felix also comes from a Husky family where his dad played football so he could nap on his dad's jersey.

Morgan + Brian :: Seattle Engagement Photography

2010-11-16T19:43:00.000-08:00

Morgan and Brian are getting married in June. Brian was home for a couple weeks for R&R in late September. I met them in Seattle for a few quick pictures while he was home. I love how playful and goofy they were together.

Here are just a few of Moe and Brian.

Ariana :: Lakewood Newborn Photography

2010-10-24T19:57:00.000-07:00

This little lady loves having her pictures taken. This blog post is a little overdue as you can tell from the fact that she is outside, in her diaper, and the sun is out. This was in early August and she was only two weeks old.

Ariana was so little that she still fit in all my fun props that most babies grow out of before I meet them. She even loved the scale which babies usually consider their worst enemy. She was such a doll. Meet the adorable Ariana. " )

Kyle :: 2010 Lakes Senior

2010-10-24T16:54:00.000-07:00

Kyle is my neighbor and I have known him all his life. It is crazy to me that he is already a senior in high school. I know he will go on to do great things in his future. Best of luck Kyle!

Here are just a few from his senior session.

Kevin & Tori :: 2011 Curtis Seniors

2010-10-17T19:47:00.000-07:00

Kevin and Tori are friends with Katelyn and Tyler. They are also twins and seniors at Curtis High School this year. We took their senior pictures together at the Pierce Country building by Chambers Bay and then went to Curtis to finish off their session. Chambers is one of my favorite locations to shoot and I was so excited to give this location a try because it had the same awesome views as well as interesting structures. I think it served us well. " )

Best of luck this year and in your future Kevin and Tori!

Kelly + Michael :: Tacoma Engagement Photographer

2010-10-08T17:41:00.000-07:00

I really like to people watch. I go to Starbucks a lot to edit (and avoid my crazy dogs) and I sometimes get lost in the people that come in and out. Today, there were some very interesting older ladies who kept me laughing as I worked. It doesn't help that I choose to edit at the Starbucks 3 blocks from Western State Hospital!

I came to the realization that people watching is one of the things that I love most about photography. Every relationship, baby, family is different. Kelly & Michael weren't like any other people I have photographed. I got the opportunity to watch them interact with one another and see what makes them different and special. Thank you Starbucks ladies for the realization.

Kelly & Michael are getting married in June. We spent a beautiful summer evening in downtown Tacoma taking their engagement pictures. Enjoy their story. " )

Leena :: Lakes Senior 2011

2010-10-04T21:01:00.000-07:00

I had such a great time getting to know Leena. We have a lot of things in common: Lakes, dance team, photography. She is very mature and it was so easy to talk to her as we explored Seattle for her senior pictures.

Leena was also a natural. Being that she is a photographer and a dancer, my job was super easy. Before I could pose her or tell her my next idea, she was already there.

Enjoy the lovely Leena.

Her eyes stand so much in B&W!
Cotton candy snack break. " )

Leena was raised by her grandfather for most of her life. She wore her grandfather's over sized sweater. Couldn't have been a better fit.

Leena's boyfriend Matt jumped in for a few, here and there.

Katelyn :: 2011 Curtis Senior

2010-09-27T15:00:00.000-07:00

Katelyn is another Curtis 2011 Senior. She was a natural at this, as I am sure you can gather from her photos. I had a hard time picking favorites so there are quite a few to see. Here's to Katelyn and her senior year.

Tyler :: 2011 Curtis Senior

2010-09-26T21:58:00.000-07:00

Tyler is the first 2011 Senior to grace the blog this year. He will not be the last, and I can thank him for many of the ones to follow. He has been a referral king!

Tyler plays baseball for Curtis HS so we started our session on the brand new baseball field and then went to UWT to finish our session. Here's to an excellent senior year! " )

Allison + Kyle :: Tacoma Engagement Photographer

2010-09-16T18:30:00.001-07:00

Allison and Kyle are getting married at Alderbrook Resort next year. We spent a little time down by Thea's waterway for some engagement pictures this summer.
Allison, I think you look stunning in red. " )

Can't wait for your wedding in May!

Peyton :: Lakewood Newborn Photography

2010-09-13T20:54:00.001-07:00

Holy cuteness!

Peyton was happy. Then she was cold. Then she fell asleep. Then it was magic. Peyton was the first baby to just pass out for me. We were in the middle of a park. She was, and is, oh so cute!

Look at the little lady!

Kim + Aaron :: Tacoma Engagement Photographer

2010-09-09T21:50:00.001-07:00

Kim, Aaron, & I met at the Spanish Steps in Tacoma (before they were closed for restoration) for their engagement pictures earlier this summer. We had beautiful weather and were invited into an antique mall to take some of their photos as well. I loved all the quirky accents in the antique mall.

Enough of the words. Here are the pictures. " )

Isn't that wall so cool?

Congrats on your engagement Kim & Aaron!

Leisha + Erik :: Yelm Wedding Lake Lawrence

2010-08-29T13:36:00.001-07:00

I absolutely loved being a part of Leisha & Erik's wedding day. To start, they are wonderful, fun, energetic, and lighthearted. These are the best qualities in clients and people in general. A couple weeks before the wedding, we went to Erik's grandparents house on Lake Lawrence where the wedding was held to get a feel for the day. When I left, my cheeks actually hurt from laughing so hard. I adored their families as well. All around great people.

As I mentioned, the wedding took place at Erik's grandparents house. Their home is an adorable collection of rustic wood, carvings, and memories. There wasn't much decoration needed. As soon as Leisha and Erik said "I do", the entire wedding party broke out into a dance to the Jackson 5's Don't Blame it on the Sunshine. We then cruised around the lake before returning to the lodge for their reception. They hired Emerald City Throwdown for their reception and I don't know if I have ever seen a reception dance party like this one. If you are looking for a wedding band, I definitely recommend them.

As always, thank you Leisha & Erik for letting me be a part of your story. It really was a pleasure.

Dance!

My hubby came along to second shoot with me. He was such an amazing help. This sneaky shot was all him.

The adorable grandparents. " )

Erik's grandfather made a ton of these for the reception. Talent.
Erik's parents getting down!

Brittany & Eddie :: Afghanistan Homecoming

2010-08-11T16:42:00.000-07:00

This was without a doubt the greatest experience my camera has allowed me to have. It was possibly the most emotional as well.

Brittany and I were teaching partners our first year of teaching. She is an amazing teacher, wonderful friend, and a wife that I admire. Her husband Eddie has been in Afghanistan serving our country.

When Brittany asked me to photograph Eddie's homecoming, I agreed immediately. I do not have anyone in my immediate family that is in the military and I have never been to a homecoming before. I am so glad I did.

It is really hard to put into words the emotion in the room. The overwhelming feeling is excitement. There were a lot of nerves, happiness, and impatience (totally understandable impatience). As a witness, not significantly tied to anyone returning, I was overwhelmed with a feeling of gratefulness. I cannot imagine what the men and women have been through overseas, or what their families have been through without them. I am very grateful.

Thank you Eddie for serving our country. Thank you Brittany for supporting Eddie.
You guys ROCK!

How pretty is Brittany?!

Ratner Family :: Seattle Family Photographer

2010-08-09T21:30:00.001-07:00

This kid and this family are cute (pronounced "cah-yooooot")! Take a look.

I met Carrie in Dance 101 at UW. I think we created some sort of interpretive dance together. I was so excited to photograph her adorable family. Niko is the little man with the amazing blue eyes and heart melting smile. I don't think it is feasible for him to be any cuter. " )

Baby James :: Gig Harbor Newborn Photographer

2010-08-06T23:10:00.000-07:00

Kris and Eileen have welcomed home little James. I had the pleasure of meeting him at his home and getting some pictures of the little man. James was SO good during our shoot. It is pretty typical for babies to cry during our sessions. They aren't fond of the clothing changes, the light, and the strange lady with a camera. James was down with it all. We even got some smiles!

Kris is a firefighter so James has an adorable firefighter room, along with the little onesie with Kris's engine number. Also, check out how awesome his hair is. The dude has natural highlights. " )

Wes + Tina :: Tacoma Wedding Photographer

2010-08-05T18:47:00.000-07:00

Wes and Tina were married in late June. Their wedding was held at Northwest Baptist Seminary and that place is AMAZING! We didn't leave the grounds at all and I could have shot in 1,000 more places. It was incredible.

The details were a rustic theme and they were fabulous. Tina's friend Romelynn made this amazing cake you see below. How cool is that?

On top of the wonderful venue, beautiful details, and gorgeous weather, there were Wes and Tina. I love seeing people in love and love was abundant. The first thing Wes said when he saw Tina, after how stunning she looked, was that he never wanted to be away from her for that long again. When he kissed her when they were pronounced, he kissed her! He kissed her like no one else was in the room. Like I said, their love was abundant.

Thank you Wes & Tina for being so in love and letting me share in a small part of it.

This beautiful little lady was my flower girl, my brother's flower girl, and now Tina's (with a few in between). She is a PRO!

tuesday

2010-08-03T13:10:00.000-07:00

Summer is amazing.

Ahh, summer.

2010-07-29T16:24:00.000-07:00

Summer through Instax minis.

Kyle + Linh :: Clise Mansion Wedding

2010-07-28T11:27:00.000-07:00

I am going to let the pictures talk.

Linh & Kyle, thank you for letting me be part of your special day. It was absolutely beautiful!

I LOVED Linh's dress.

Otis Bernard Danielson :: new puppy

2010-07-21T11:16:00.000-07:00

If you have ever been to our house, you know it is nothing short of a dog park. Prior to a week ago, we had two dogs, my mom had one, and my brother had one. This meant at most events, there were at least as many dogs as people.

Last Sunday (7/11) was Kasey & Ciara's 1 year wedding anniversary. Kasey surprised Ciara by taking her to pick out a golden retriever puppy. John and I went along to help. On a side note, I have always wanted a Bernese Mountain dog. I love big dogs and after we got our Great Dane 3 years ago, I knew a Bernese was the next dog I wanted. John had other ideas however.

We got to Canyon Meadows Farm and the first creature to greet John was a Bernese named Gerty. He fell in love on the spot. So when they brought out the puppies, they brought both kinds. John was already sold. It actually took more to convince me. We already had two dogs. We really didn't need another one. We would be known as the crazy dog people. I wasn't ready for that.

But then I fell in love with this face...

And now it is official. We are embracing the "crazy dog people" title. We know what we are. Just please, keep us away from puppies in the future!

And if your puppy quota was not yet filled, meet Hank. He is my brother's newest addition.