Fall Portraits

 I haven't added pictures for a while. Mostly because I haven't pulled my camera out for a long time. . .  I went to upload some pictures for Christmas cards and realized I didn't have any of my kids or family! So I went out to take some. I haven't taken portraits for a while. I must say taking pictures of your own kids makes it easier to make you feel like you did a good job. I love the last one of B. It's hard to get two kids looking at the same time and not be moving.

I really like the back light of the first two pictures. It makes the last picture feel like it's lacking in light. And perhaps it is a bit. I could have exposed it a bit more.

some photos, it's been a while. ;)

samiyah's birthday photo shoot.

these are all unprocessed. i did polish them up a bit for the family blog though.

i loved playing with the light and shadows, oh yes, and color. ;)

some didn't turn out as crisp as i would've liked, but this girl is way too fast for me to fiddle with any settings as my light begins to disappear. i didn't use a flash, either, so that might've added to the blurriness. 

one of my summer favorites:

The Stoffer Fam

I tried my hand at family photos again and once again I had done my research and had all these ideas for poses and when I got there, I blanked.  My on the spot creativity needs some help.  But anyway, I hope they find something they love in the mix, otherwise I told them they HAVE to ask me again. I LOVE taking photos, I can take candids like its nothing... no pressure right? But taking posed pictures of people makes me shake in my boots, I wish I was more confident with it... I get so hard on myself and analyze every photo I take thinking of what I could of done better (to a fault)... blah... but that being said, the Stoffers are the chillest people ever and their baby girl is SO darling and it was a pleasure to do this for them.  I was grateful they were willing to let an amateur get some practice.  I still would never dare charge anyone for my photography, I feel way to amateurish for that, hopefully they find something they like!

Trail of Hope

It's been a while since I posted on here! I've been meaning to...

I was especially inspired during my most recent trip to Nauvoo a couple months ago. 

Walking to the end of the Trail of Hope, facing west over the Mississippi, and reflecting on all the Saints left behind was emotional for me.

And continues to be so now as I, in my own small way, left the midwest for Utah.

I was looking at these pictures feeling inspired all over again, and thought I'd share.
Does anyone have any photos of Nauvoo they'd like to share? Because I would love to see what touched you during a past visit there. Especially if you got any with one of those gorgeous sunsets. Unfortunately I was at the river in the middle of the day- not the best time, but I did my best!

Olbrich Garden's

I took these at Olbrich Garden's yesterday and I just liked how they turned out...

 My personal favorite, the lighting on this was so ideal....

Beautiful Emma

Here are a few of my favorites. I realize I really just do the same kind of shots- but oh well-- I'm such a beginner. I think it's just nice to get to take pics of a dear friend's baby for her. It was a wonderful hour for me to spend time with this little one!

Slightly blurry, but I love her smile in it.

I think Bethany is stunningly beautiful here.

Smiling for her mommy!

This one is my favorite. I love the angle of light. Plus, I have a thing for little feet.