stewart imagery

Emily Claire | 18 months

2012-02-24T11:41:00.000-05:00

Late January is usually known for snow, ice, wind, and freezing temperatures. However, a few days before the Super Bowl, the weather man predicted unseasonably warm temps! So when Emily Claire's Mom called and asked to take advantage of such weather, I was so excited! Although the sun dipped behind the clouds and the winter winds were making their way back, it didn't phase adorable Miss Emily Claire! She was our little ray of sunshine, and we had a fun time singing, marching, and listening to birds chirp as they flew overhead. I can't believe she's 18 months old already...where does the time go? I first met Emily Claire's family before she was born, when Heather and Brian were anxiously awaiting her arrival. And I've been so lucky to be the one to document their lives ever since! (Take a look back here, here, here, here, and here.) And now for a few of my favorites from our afternoon! Family and friends can view Emily Claire's entire online gallery here!

Such beautiful blue eyes!

Did I mention we had beautiful light?

A favorite!

Love your style, Em!

Check out Emily's Toms, a gift from her Papaw! And it just so happens that Heather, Emily Claire's beautiful mom, loooooves the Wizard of Oz. So, naturally, these red sparkly numbers are her favorite!

Hi there, Emily! :)

More favorites!

Love everything about this one...my favorite from the day!

After a quick wardrobe change, we headed to another location for a few more portraits. It was getting more and more chilly by the minute, but Emily was a trooper! And a cute trooper at that!

looooove!

Em, you are a total sweetheart. Gah!

Emily Claire, thank you so much for sharing your afternoon with me!

I always have a blast with you and your wonderful family!

Can't wait to see you again soon...someone's got a 2nd birthday coming up! ;)

Sisters | Avery + Piper

2012-02-16T19:38:00.004-05:00

I was so excited to see these two adorable sisters recently, after all it had been almost two years since our last session together, so we were definitely overdue for some fun! Avery is now 7, and Piper just turned 4! Time really does fly! And I swear these two get even more beautiful and adorable each and every time I see them! Seriously! Today just so happens to be a very special day, the birthday of the fabulous mom of these two lovlies...Happy Birthday, Lindsay!!! I hope you have had a wonderful day of fun and celebration! Without further adieu, here are some of my favorites from our session! Family and friends can view the entire online gallery here!

Speaking of favorites, let's start things off with one right now!

Although it was a chilly day outside, we had beautiful, abundant natural light streaming in, and I was in heaven!

Avery and Piper always have impeccable style, perfectly accessorized, of course!

So sweet! I loved watching these two together!

Gah! Love these two!

See what I mean? They are just so stylish, and I love it!

Little Miss Sunshine! Piper, I hope you add yellow to your list of favorite colors!

A favorite!

These girls know how to work the camera! ;)

These two right here? Yep, more favorites!

So beautiful!

I want to go shopping with you girls next time...pretty please? :)

Ok, ok, I have to stop with all the favorites! How can I with images like these?!

Oh, Piper...you are so, so pretty!

Gorge, gorge, gorgeous.

Avery has her model face down.

Seriously adorable!

Avery and Piper, where do I begin? I had such a fun time hanging out with you! You are both

beautiful, inside and out, and your energy and creativity inspire me! Thank you for sharing your afternoon with me, I cannot wait to do it again!

Church of the Holy Cross Wedding | Jen + Doug

2012-01-24T13:52:00.002-05:00

Jen and Doug's love story is one that is beautifully composed, floating along a musical score that only Bach or Beethoven could have dreamed of penning. They met while attending Butler University back in 2003. Their paths were destined to cross as they were both in band, for music was something they both loved and understood. They sat in some of the same classrooms, and hung out in the same circle of friends. In 2004, their musical score went from a solo to a lovely, harmonious duet as they started dating. And a few years later, they joined hands and hearts in front of their beloved family and friends to officially mark the beginning of their overture, their life together. A lovely, harmonious duet.

Jen and Doug, thank you for allowing me the honor of capturing your beautiful wedding day! I wish you a lifetime of happiness and love, a perfect melody. Friends and family can view their online gallery here.

Jen's gorgeous gown!

The cool, misty December day beckoned friends and family to join them inside the warm, inviting Church of the Holy Cross. With the help of her sweet friends, Matron of Honor, Marcy,

and bridesmaid, Sarah, Jen prepared for her First Look.

Doug sent her a wedding gift - beautiful blue earrings

that just so happen to match her engagement ring.

Doug waits to see his bride to be during their First Look. Have I mentioned that

I love when couples choose to do a First Look? It is often one of the only times throughout the day that the couple is alone together, besides my being there, of course. Furthermore, family photos are taken prior to the ceremony, allowing guests more time to enjoy the celebration. In a similar manner, there is usually more time for portraits of the newly minted couple and the wedding party. It's definitely something to consider when planning your wedding day timeline!

Doug could not stop smiling!

Jen, you were such a beautiful bride! A favorite!

Just minutes before the ceremony began...

I love the way Doug is beaming while seeing his bride walk down the aisle to meet him!

Holy Cross is absolutely gorgeous!

Another favorite!

During the Sign of Peace, Jen and Doug gave roses to each other's family.

Married!!!

Jen, you have the best smile!

More favorites!

Seriously stunning, Jen, seriously.

Love, love, love!

What a good looking wedding party!

Then it was time for the reception to start! Jen and Doug designed their own cake, complete with snowflakes to match their wedding day theme!

Perfect toasts were given by Best Man, Chris, and Matron of Honor, Marcy.

Followed by one of the sweetest First Dances ever to the Rainbow Connection.

Jen and Doug, it was truly a joy and honor to share in your wedding day!

You are blessed with amazing families and friends - everyone was so nice and so wonderful

to work with! What a perfect way to end 2011 and welcome the New Year! Congratulations!!!

P.S. A huge thank you to my husband and best friend, Reggie, for shooting and assisting me at this wedding! I love you!

Senior | Class of 2012 | Keely

2012-01-19T17:08:00.001-05:00

I always have so much fun with senior sessions! Part of what I love about photographing seniors is that they have this positive, excited, fresh outlook on life. They are celebrating a big achievement, graduating high school, and moving on to the next phase, the next chapter in their story. A story which makes it uniquely them. Another part I love about meeting and working with seniors is hearing their dreams for the future. And when I heard that Keely aspires to become an officer in the U.S. Navy or U.S. Army, I was in awe. Now I don't know much about the military, but I do know that it takes a huge amount of hard work, dedication, and devotion to endure everything from training to fighting for your country and fellow Americans. Perhaps Keely's time in the pool has laid a firm foundation. She's a swimmer, and practices and trains at least twice a day. On the day of our session, she had already done her morning workout before 5am! Besides her love of swimming, she enjoys auto-crossing and go-karting when she has free time. And she loves all types of food. Everything from good ol' peanut butter to Korean, Indian, Thai, and Afghani food! If that weren't enough, she had just returned from a holiday vacation with family and friends in Hawaii, where the weather had been perfectly beautiful! You may be asking, "Well, why didn't you do the session in Hawaii?!" I must admit that I did offer to accompany Keely and her family to that tropical paradise, however, it would have been a lot of traveling for one day! ;) In all seriousness, we had a blast, and I've been so excited to share some of my favorites since posting a quick Sneak Peek on facebook, so let's get right to it! Keely, thank you for making my job so much fun!!! Family and friends can see Keely's online gallery here!

Work it! One of my favorites!

Keely, you are so, so, SO pretty! What a gorgeous smile too!

Keely wanted a fun, natural, relaxed vibe to her images, and I think she nailed it!

Love both of these!

Gorgeous.

Another favorite!

A few words that Keely uses to describe herself: ridiculous, creative, quirky, independent, inclusive, supportive, strong-minded. Must add this word pronto: Beautiful.

Love this one!

There are certain times throughout a session when I just LOVE what the client is doing and want to show them just how awesome they are...this next one was one of those moments. Another favorite!

Keely, thank you so much for sharing your day and this special time in your life with me!

And thank you for being yourself in front of the camera, you are a natural!

I wish you all the best as you reach for your dreams - I know you can do whatever you put your mind to! Enjoy the rest of your senior year!

2011 | Year in Review | Engagements

2012-01-14T14:27:00.000-05:00

It's always fun to look at images from the past year to see how far I've come as a photographer. I really think it helps me to learn and grow, to see what works, and to see how I can sharpen my skills for the year ahead. I also got the opportunity to travel to California for one of the sessions! More importantly, I love to to reconnect with the couples who have welcomed me into their lives to capture such an exciting time before the wedding day. One of my favorite things about engagement sessions is that once we get started, and chat about their plans, they kind of forget that they're being photographed. They simply focus on one another. They breathe. They laugh and hug and kiss and share the moment. Together. To all of my couples from 2011, thank you for being so wonderful, so in the moment, so you. Here are some of my favorites from the past year... enjoy!

Again, thank you to for making my year such a memorable one! You guys are the BEST!

Commercial | Tea Time To Your Door

2012-01-09T13:12:00.001-05:00

In early December, I received an email that made me so excited that I couldn't sleep that night. Words like vintage, fascinators, tea, cakes, Victorian, new business, and dreams drew me in. Especially that last word, dreams. Before I continue, allow me to explain a few things. I photographed this gorgeous summer garden wedding last year, and shared some images with the florist, Lacey, because I adored her work. When we met, I was inspired by her enthusiasm and passion for her work and for life in general. Little did I know (and I had sincerely hoped) that our paths would cross again. And it happened just over a year later. Lacey's mother, Judy, was starting her own business, and needed photos for her new website and marketing materials. I was so honored that they contacted me, and we made immediate plans for the session, since the end of the year was approaching. For she wanted to launch her business to ring the New Year, and my travel schedule was a bit chaotic. We made things work, and we had such a fun time!

And now, back to that word dreams. One definition is : "A condition or achievement that is longed for; an aspiration." When it comes to starting a business, this definition certainly applies. However, there's so much more to it when you feel so passionately about what you want to achieve, what you hope to accomplish, and what you want so much that it consumes you. Because of Judy's passion, enthusiasm, and spirit, I know she's destined for success. And for her dreams to come to fruition. She loves to connect with people, to share her stories and theirs, and to make a positive difference in the community. Tea Time To Your Door allows her to do just that! Judy, I'm so excited for you and your new business, and I wish you all the success in the world! Here are some of my favorites from the day! Cheers!

Delicious desserts and florals in pretty teacups, perfection!

Meet beautiful Judy, owner of Tea Time To Your Door!

Vintage fascinators and accessories add to the Victorian-themed tea events:

Judy's daughter, Lacey - so gorgeous!

I must say working with Judy and Lacey was so much fun, it didn't feel at all like work!

Every tea party, and every day for that matter, is just that much sweeter when chocolates, cookies, and cakes are involved!

Charming vintage teacups and saucers, yes please!

A favorite!

Along with fresh floral arrangements and special occasion cakes,

pretty personalized gift baskets are also available.

Tea parties and tea events are for all ages, and such a fun idea for birthdays, anniversaries, bridal showers, baby showers, girls' nights, and more! To end our session, we had a tea party...

... as well as a birthday toast to our lovely model on the left!

Thank you for sharing your birthday with us, Miss J! :)

Adorable Miss Neva!

P.S. These are some definite favorites!

And the delightful birthday girl! She shared some dreams of her own with me - I told her to go for what she wants in life! You are beautiful inside and out, always remember that!

To learn more about Tea Time To Your Door, and to book a tea event, please visit their website. Connect with them on facebook too!

Judy, thank you so much for letting me share in your dreams! I'm so excited for you!!!

It was such an honor to work with you - thank you for being an inspiration to me and to all those who set out to make their dreams a reality! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

On Winter, Sunshine + Lucy

2012-01-04T12:17:00.000-05:00

Winter officially commenced a few short weeks ago, and I will admit it's not my most favorite season. Unless there is sunshine! There can be snow on the ground, freezing temperatures, bone-chilling wind...as long as the sun is shining, winter seems a little more, well, warm. Lucy doesn't seem to mind winter so much either. She loves lapping up little snowflakes and making her own paw print trails on the ground. Today, however, she's been perfectly content curling up in an old office chair as the sunlight streams in the windows across the room. With her, winter seems a whole lot warmer.

Happy Wednesday

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T16:19:00.001-05:00

Just checking in to wish you all a safe and Happy New Year! 2011 has been such a fun year - I've met so many wonderful clients and friends, shared in some of the most happy and joyous moments at weddings, hugs and laughter during engagement sessions, meeting new little ones just days after they're born, and watching seniors celebrate their achievement and look forward to the next chapter in their lives. I'm so lucky and blessed and completely honored to do what I love and to meet so many amazing people and their families! From the bottom of my heart, thank to you, dear clients, awesome friends, my wonderful husband and family, and everyone who supports my dreams! I'm so excited for 2012!

One of my wedding day rituals is to listen to some of my favorite tunes on the way to the ceremony and sing in the car, like I'm the next American Idol. Yesterday, on my way to a beautiful wedding, this one came on and I couldn't help but smile and sing as loud as I could, all the while thinking how lucky I was to be on my way to do what I love - documenting people in love. The song's title is Good Feeling, which is how I feel about the New Year upon us. Did I mention that I'm excited for 2012?

And a blog post wouldn't be complete without a photo...here is a Sneak Peek from yesterday's wedding.
Congratulations, Jen + Doug!

Happy New Year!

Family | Ben + Ashley + Eden

2011-12-28T11:38:00.000-05:00

Oh how time flies! I cannot believe that sweet little Eden is already 6 months old! We met up on one of the last nice fall days for some family portraits. It has been so much fun to watch Ashley and Ben during their journey as new parents. Eden is the light of their lives, and I couldn't help but smile as I captured this wonderful family enjoy an autumn evening together. Here are some of my favorites from our session!

Ashley, you are beautiful!

Eden couldn't help but take in all the sights and colors around her!

Love these two!

A favorite!

Total favorite! Eden, you are too adorable! Those blue eyes!!!

Our light was quickly fading, so Eden had a fast wardrobe change, you may recall her lovely dress from her newborn session.

Another favorite! Cannot get over her gorgeous eyes!

And I'll end this post with one that I think just sums up this cute family:

Ben, Ashley, and Eden, thank you for sharing some time with me! I'm so happy for you guys! Eden is

an absolute sweetheart, which is no wonder considering how amazing her parents are!

Can't wait to see you soon!

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-24T08:31:00.000-05:00

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Thank you to my family, friends, and clients for making 2011 such a wonderful year! I'm so excited about what 2012 has in store! Happy Holidays!

Indianapolis Engagement | Anne + Nick

2011-12-13T15:51:00.001-05:00

After meeting while out with friends one night, she was sure he wasn't her type. After all, he was an artist, and just different than anyone else she had ever met. Despite this, Anne accepted Nick's invitation to go on a date the following night, and it turns out that was the best decision she had ever made.

After living near St. Louis for a few years, job opportunities led the pair to Baltimore. And this past June, Nick and Anne planned a little East Coast beach getaway. Nick had it all figured out. Anne's sister and her husband would just happen to be in town, so Anne would have family to share their exciting news with, and they could all celebrate together. The four of them were enjoying a day of sun and sand, when Nick mentioned he needed to go feed the parking meter, Anne accompanied him. She thought it was strange that he brought his backpack along, when really he'd only need his wallet, but she dismissed it, and just went along. Once the parking meter was taken care of, Nick led Anne down the beach to a little seaside B&B. He mentioned that one day they would stay there, perhaps as husband and wife. Anne looked down and saw that Nick was on one knee. With tears and an emphatic "YES!" they joined hands and made their way back to their spot on the beach, letting the waves crash into them as they walked.

Planning a wedding from afar is quite a challenge, but one that Anne and Nick are truly enjoying! It worked out that they would both be in town after the birth of their new nephew, Paxton, so we were able to squeeze in their engagement session too. Anne and Nick had some elements they wanted to incorporate in their session, like their love of wine and bold colors. They are both creative, energetic, beautiful people who love life and trying new things, so they made my job so easy and so much fun!

Anne and Nick, you rocked your session, despite the wind and chilly temperatures! Thank you for trusting in me to capture this exciting time in your lives, it was such an honor! Can't wait for May!!! Family and friends can view Anne and Nick's online gallery here!

We started the session off by sampling some vino at a local wine shop, Mass Ave Wine Shoppe.

Such a cool place!

A favorite!

P.S. I have tons of favorites from this session. :)

I love how Nick makes Anne smile.

Love, love, love.

A favorite!

Anne, you are gorgeous, my dear! Those eyes!!!

Anne and Nick love red, green, and turquoise, so I was jumping up and down when I found this location for them. Perfection!!!

Work.It.Out.

LOVE!!!

Secret smooches, love it!

And we found some fall color lingering, even in November:

I adore you guys!

Hot, hot, hot!

The sun came out for a few moments, and I couldn't have been more happy about it.

Anne, you are going to be such a beautiful bride! You are already glowing!

Another favorite.

I think you both look like movie stars here.

These two were serious troopers. By this point, the temperature was falling, and falling quick!

The wind had picked up, but we had to take advantage of the amazing light in this location! So worth it!

Anne and Nick, thank you for being so wonderful and for enduring the chilly afternoon! Most of all, thank you for being who you are - so sweet, loving, carefree, up for anything - in front of the camera. I had such a blast with you guys, and I'm so excited for you both! Can't wait for the Big Day!

What I'm Loving Right Now: Frangipani's Jasmine Mint Lip Balm

2011-12-10T08:07:00.000-05:00

Winter is just around the corner, which means chapped lip season is too! Eeek! If you know me well, you know that I always, and I really do mean always, have some sort of lip balm with me. In my pocket, in my purse, in my camera bag, even on my bedside table at night! Yes, I'm kind of fanatical about it. And while I've tried my fair share of brands and flavors over the years, from the good ol' cherry Chapstick, to the super tingly Carmex, to medicated SPF15 Blistex, and even some chocolate flavored brand, which tasted pretty good but didn't live up to its intended purpose. I have recently found my new favorite lip balm, and I'd love to share it with you! Remember my friend Tracy who has her own line of natural skin care products called Frangipani? She just launched her very own lip balm - Jasmine Mint Lip Balm! And it is wonderful! It's lightly scented, and it has just a hint of that tingle, which makes it the perfect lip balm in my book!

Tracy asked me to photograph Frangipani's booth at a recent holiday show. Lucky attendees were treated to complimentary demonstrations and product samples. And I loved the lights - what a perfect touch!

So proud of you, Tracy!!!

Check out Frangipani's line here! Connect with Frangipani on facebook to stay up to date on new products and events too!

Happy Saturday!

Sneak Peek: Engagement | Anne + Nick

2011-12-07T14:40:00.000-05:00

After a few days of chilly, rainy weather, the sun has peeked out, even if only for a little bit, to greet us. I've been excited to share a recent engagement session, but for now, a quick sneak peek will have to do!

Stay tuned for more from Anne + Nick's engagement session!

Happy Wednesday!

Family | Jason + Maria + Emily

2011-12-06T09:39:00.000-05:00

We had such a beautiful fall here in the Midwest this year! I mean, it's always lovely in the fall. However, this one seemed even more so. I met up with this beautiful family on a chilly, sunny autumn morning. Please say hello to Jason, Maria, and Emily! For those of you who know that I also take photos for my husband's business, Reggie's Motorworks, you may recognize Jason. This family, besides being a good looking bunch, is also a ton of fun! They love being outdoors and just spending time being together. They love to make each other laugh, to be silly, and to live in the moment. And, Emily, oh Emily! She's just a doll, as you'll soon see! So let's get right to the images!

Maria, you are beautiful.

Love this one!

A favorite!

Hi there, Emily!

It's just too difficult to choose a favorite from this next series of Emily...so I won't, I love them all!

And our light during the session? Amazing!

Love, love, LOVE this one!

Another favorite! You guys make me smile!

Jason, Maria, and Emily, thank you for sharing your morning with me! It was so fun to hang out with you guys! Emily, I bet you made something really cool with the leaves you collected that day!

Thanks again for such a fun session!

Newborn | Claire Analise | 4 days

2011-12-05T08:20:00.001-05:00

October was such an exciting month! One of my best friends had her first baby, and then Reggie and I became Great...as in Great Uncle Reggie and Great Aunt Stephanie. And we couldn't be more excited for Tricia and Joe, and we know they are going to be amazing parents for Claire Analise. Isn't her name beautiful? I just love it! Claire is such a little bundle of cuteness! We drove up to the Chicagoland area to visit our new family member when she was just 4 days new... and of course I had to take some photos! Claire was awake and alert the entire time, and was very interested in the magic black box that click, click, clicked every time she batted her beautiful eyelashes and wiggled her perfectly pink toes. Tricia and Joe, we are sooooo happy for you! It was so wonderful to see you beam with pride as you held Claire and introduced her to us. We can't wait to see you all again soon!

Claire Analise arrived on Tuesday, October 25, 2011 at 12:15AM.

8 pounds, 13 ounces

20 and 1/2 inches

And a full head of beautiful dark hair, just like her Mommy when she was born!

Claire's room is bright and cheery and full of sweet little details!

Hello, Claire! You are so beautiful!

A favorite!

I love everything about this image: her little fingers, her little cheeks and nose and lips. Ahhh, so sweet!

SO cute!

Joe, these next two are just for you. :)

Another favorite!

At 4 days new, she was already reaching for the stars. ;)

Love this one!

Tricia, Joe, and Claire Analise, I'm so blessed to be a part of your family! Reggie and I are so happy, so excited, and so proud of you! And we cannot wait to watch Claire grow up, surrounded by two wonderful parents - and Molly the sweet dog (Lucy says hi!), who will no doubt love and protect her each and every day! Thank you for allowing me to capture such a sweet time in your lives, I will always cherish it! Congratulations!!!

See you soon! xoxo

Family | Jeremy + Carey + Lainey

2011-11-30T15:21:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite parts about my job is getting to meet so many awesome people. On a sunny fall day, I was lucky enough to meet 3 more such people - Jeremy, Carey, and Lainey - and their sweet dog, Wrigley, too! They are an active family who loves the outdoors. They love animals too - they raise sheep and puppies. Plus, they live in an old farmhouse that they've been renovating themselves from the ground up. Despite being so busy, they always make time for each other, and it was so wonderful to see just how much from behind my lens. Miss Lainey is beyond adorable, and it's clear that her parents are completely smitten with her. I'm sure you will be too once you see some of my favorites from their session! Family and friends can view Jeremy, Carey, and Lainey's online gallery here. And now for some family love!

We started the session off at their home, and it was quite a windy day! It didn't bother this family though!

Lainey is at such a fun age - she's so curious about everything and loves to chat!

So cute!!!

This family is blessed with beautiful eyes, especially Lainey!

One of my favorites from the day! Love it!

Another favorite!

Such a happy family!

I love, love, love this one too!

Lainey had a ball throwing leaves and watching as they drifted into the water:

Lainey has a myriad of expressions, and knew how to work it for the camera! ;)

Another favorite!

Perhaps I should have warned everyone at the beginning of this post that I had so many favorites...

... because here is another one!

Ohhhh, those blue eyes!!!!

Hello there, Lainey!

Such a little cutie!

Gorgeous lashes and curls!

Jeremy, Carey, and Lainey, thank you so much for such a fun session and

for being so flexible and up for anything! I loved getting to know your family! You are the best!

Deck Your Walls: Custom Canvas Prints

2011-11-25T12:19:00.000-05:00

I've been so excited to share some exciting products with you! Custom Canvas Prints!

After your engagement session (or Day After/Senior/Family/Newborn sessions!) and after your wedding, you have beautiful images that you would love to display in your home. It can be difficult to choose an image, let alone figure out how best to display it. What better way than with a favorite image printed on canvas, ready to hang on your walls, creating your very own art gallery featuring your special day?

One of my favorites from Katherine + Jesse's Santa Monica Engagement Session:

And some beautiful wedding details - that gorgeous beaded dress, sparkly necklace, and vivid florals - from Jenny + Eric's Day After Session:

If you would like some guidance in choosing images and/or how to design your own gallery

at home, contact me for more information, I would love to help!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T10:32:00.000-05:00

Over the past few years, this November holiday has had more meaning to me. And today I'm going to cherish it as much as I can. Thanksgiving is more than just the day to have pumpkin pie and stuffing - two of my favorite dishes on today's menu - it is a day to realize all the blessings in my life. I am thankful for my husband, Reggie, my rock, my supporter, my sunshine on cloudy days. I am thankful for my family and friends, who encourage me, who believe in me, who fill my thoughts when we don't get to spend as much time together as we all would like. And I am so thankful for my clients! Without you, I wouldn't get to do what I love each and every day. Being surrounded by such amazing people - family, friends, clients, all of you - pushes me to become not only a better person, but a better wife, daughter, friend, and photographer. From the bottom of my heart, thank you, thank you, thank you.

And because blog posts are more fun with a photo, here's one of our little turkey, Lucy:

Happy Thanksgiving!

Newborn | Paxton Elliot

2011-11-23T09:09:00.001-05:00

When one of my best friends announced that she was pregnant, I was so excited! She and her husband eagerly awaited the arrival of their first little one. And he was so worth the wait! Actually, he was ready to meet his parents too, because he was born a week early! After 26 hours of labor, Audrey and Phil welcomed their sweet bundle of joy at 5:34pm on Sunday, October 23. Reggie and I visited them in the hospital, and seeing the smiles on their faces was such a great thing! They were beaming with pride as they introduced us to the newest member of their amazing family, Paxton Elliot. I got to hold him, and he melted my heart. I am smitten! Audrey and Phil, you will be wonderful parents, I am so, so, so happy for you both! I had the joy of capturing Paxton on his eighth day of life, and will never forget it. Here are some of my favorites from his session!

A favorite!

Audrey and Phil are big Colts fans... and it looks like Paxton is too!

Paxton's daddy is a fireman, so it was quite fitting to incorporate some of Phil's gear.

Another favorite!

Paxton is already so loved by her two "big sisters,"

Samie and Stella, two of the sweetest labs in the world.

8 pounds, 8 ounces

21 and 1/4 inches long

Another favorite! Paxton, you are too adorable!

Paxton sleeps in the very bassinet that Audrey slept in when she was born! Audrey is talented at so many things, including knitting. She's tried to teach me on more than one occasion... which is a story for another time! Before Paxton was born, she knitted his adorable hat, plus matching mittens and booties! Winter is on its way, and this baby is ready! ;)

Favorite! Such a handsome little guy!

I love this image. My best friend and her first child. Audrey, you are beautiful!

Paxton's room is so fun, colorful and bright with cute little turtles and frogs

sure to make him smile all day long!

Audrey is a teacher, so books - especially books about firehouses and firemen! - were a must-have for the baby's room. Love it!

Love this one!!!

Perfect little baby toes!!!

Oh so sleepy!

I love Paxton's tiny little hand reaching for his Mommy.

Audrey and Phil, thank you for allowing me to share in this special time in your lives! Paxton is such a sweetheart, and such a lucky little guy. He couldn't have asked for two more kind, fun-loving, caring, amazing parents. I'm so blessed and honored to call you friends, and I am so excited to watch as your family grows! Congratulations! xoxo

Senior | Class of 2012 | Kyleigh

2011-11-21T09:43:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday! What better way to start the week than with another awesome senior session! I was so excited for Kyleigh's session! She is a natural beauty, with a bright smile and a sweet, bubbly personality. She also happens to be the niece of one of my most dear friends, and it was such an honor to be the one to document this important milestone in Kyleigh's life. Although it's hard to believe that she'll be going off to college next year, it's obvious that she loves life and wants to help others, as she plans to go into the medical field. She loves spending time with her friends, boyfriend, family, and Charlee, her chocolate lab. She is an avid runner, and may possibly continue to excel in her sport in college. Kyleigh, you are such a sweetheart! I had a blast hanging out with you! Thank you for being a trooper despite the wind! Friends and family can view her online gallery here. And now for some favorites from her session!

Seriously beautiful.

A favorite!

Charlee! She is such a sweet dog! And she adores Kyleigh!

Another favorite!

I have so many favorites from Kyleigh's session, and this is another one.

Doesn't she have the best smile?

If you're a fan of my facebook page, this image may look familiar. The color version was the Sneak Peek for Kyleigh's session. Again, another absolute favorite from the day!

Confident, beautiful, love it!

Work it out!

Thank you, thank you, thank you, Kyleigh, for such a fun, laid back session! I wish you all the best as you finish your senior year and embark on the next chapter of your life! You have an amazingly bright future ahead of you! Keep smiling and go for your dreams!

A special thank you to Kyleigh's parents, my parents, and my awesome husband for their help with this session - I couldn't have done it without all of you!

Thankful.

2011-11-18T14:43:00.000-05:00

The sun is shining, it's a beautiful Friday afternoon, and I'm thankful. Yes, I know, I'm a week early, but I believe it's never too early to be thankful. A few days ago, I shared some images with a local florist, and the next thing I knew, they sent me this lovely little thank you. It more than made my day, and it is the perfect something pretty for my desk!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Family | Joe + Elizabeth + Clark + Sydney

2011-11-17T13:42:00.001-05:00

I was beyond excited to photograph this oh so adorable family! I've known Elizabeth and Joe since our days at IU. I've been a guest at their wedding, and I had the honor of photographing their sweet baby Sydney after she was born. We met for some family portraits on a lovely fall afternoon. And despite the wind, Elizabeth and Joe and their two little rays of sunshine were troopers! We roamed a beautiful property and just enjoyed the day. Elizabeth, Joe, Clark, and Sydney, thank you so much for letting me share some special family time with you! And now for some favorites from their session! Family and friends can view their online gallery here.

Sydney and Clark, you both are too cute!

I can't believe that Sydney is already 2 1/2 years old, and that Clark is 4 1/2. Where does the time go?!

I can tell you now that Clark is going to be such a heartbreaker! So handsome!

Hello gorgeous eyes!

Love these two! Sydney was so excited seeing her Mommy and Daddy hugging!

Elizabeth, these next two are just for you! I hope I did justice to your vision!

I just love this family. I really do have the best job ever.

As we walked around, we spotted one of the coolest trees I've ever seen!

So sweet!

Two natural beauties!

Besides a gorgeous property, we had amazing glowy light!

Total sweetheart. Totally adorable.

Don't you just love Clark's smile?

I love how happy they are, so much love here!

Looooove.

Oh to be a kid again... carefree, playing in the leaves!

Beautiful light, amazing, wonderful, perfect family. A favorite!

Awwwww!

These two met on the last day of 5th grade at Evansville Day school. They've been inseparable since eighth grade in 1992, and promised forever to each other on November 1, 2003. Their wedding was one I'll never forget, it was breathtakingly beautiful! Elizabeth, do you still have that gorgeous gown?

Oh, you two! Hot, hot, hot!

As soon as I saw this image on the back of my camera, it gave me chills...it does every time I look at it.

Elizabeth, you are truly beautiful. Seriously beautiful.

Elizabeth and Joe, it was such an honor to document this time with you and your family!

Clark and Sydney are absolutely adorable, and your love for each other was such a joy to witness! Your happiness and love for life and beauty is so inspirational to me - thank you.

Can't wait to see you again!

Family | Ben + Lyndsay + Rowan + Marin

2011-11-11T14:40:00.001-05:00

I had so much fun with this family! Besides being an absolutely adorable bunch, they are incredibly nice, easy going, up for anything, and they love spending time together as a family indoors and out - hiking, reading, and visiting museums and zoos. We met on a sunny autumn morning for some family fun and photos - I've been so excited to share some images from their session... you may have seen their sneak peek on facebook earlier this week! Ben and Lyndsay love vintage items, and they brought one of their favorites...take a look! Family and friends can view their entire online gallery here!

Hi Rowan! Doesn't he have gorgeous blue eyes?

Rowan is a great big brother to Miss Marin!

P.S. I love your names!

Sooo cute!!!

Two favorites! Oh, Marin, you are beyond adorable!

One of my most favorite family photos ever! Love this!

Ben's vintage bimmer, a 1971 BMW 1602 in Nevada beige, with 47,000 original miles.

(Thank you, Ben!)

Oh snap! A camera war! Rowan took a photo of me taking his photo! ;)

Another favorite!

Lyndsay and Ben, you two are perfect! Another favorite!

Ben had spent some time detailing his vintage beauty for our session,

so she definitely deserved a photo all her own! What an awesome automobile!

She's won several awards across the country.

Then it was Marin's turn behind the camera... and in front of the camera.

Lyndsay and Marin's two favorite, handsome guys!

Lyndsay, you are beautiful. That is all.

Because I love this image so much, I had to include it in this post even though

it was their sneak peek image! It's just a perfect family moment.

Ben and Lyndsay absolutely adore their children - and each other - and for that, I adore them too.

Just a few giggles were heard during our session. ;)

Rowan, you are a handsome young man, you know it!

Marin, you have beautiful eyes! What a sweetheart!

I left our session feeling extra lucky that day... for one, because I love my job. And two, because Rowan and Marin showed me their secret beautiful pathway where they love to go hiking. I promise not to tell! :)

I love how Rowan is leading his little sis.

Ben, Lyndsay, Rowan, and Marin, thank you so much for sharing your morning with me! I had a blast hanging out with you guys, and can't wait to do it again! You are such a sweet, funny, warm, caring family!

Thanks again for being so wonderful!

Senior | Class of 2012 | Floyd

2011-11-10T11:02:00.000-05:00

A few days ago, I posted a sneak peek from this next senior session on my facebook page. I've been so excited to share more images from Floyd's senior session! We had a perfect fall day, the weather could not have been better! At the risk of sounding like a broken record, I love senior sessions! Floyd is such a cool guy, so polite and so smart. He'll be studying aerospace engineering at Purdue University upon graduation from high school. He enjoys playing soccer and hanging out with his friends. And he totally rocked his senior session! So let's get right to the images! Friends and family can view Floyd's online gallery here. Floyd, thank you for such an awesome session! I can't wait to see what the future holds for you!

Floyd has a killer smile...

... and a totally fierce (in a good way, of course!) visage, work it out!

It's so hard to choose only one favorite from this next series...so I won't choose, I love them all!

One of my favorites from the entire session right here:

Since it was such a lovely day, we headed outdoors for more fun!

I encourage my clients to make their session personal, so I love that Floyd wanted to incorporate his car!

And I was even more excited that Floyd wanted to have a few photos with Ben, his family's adorable beagle mix! Ben is 11 years old, blind, and just so loveable, soft and sweet! He loved having his photo taken, and I kinda wanted to put him in my camera bag and take him home with me! ;)

Two more favorites!

Floyd, thanks again for such a fun session! It was an honor to work with you, and I wish you all the very best as you finish your senior year and start the next exciting chapter of your life!

And thank you for letting me meet Ben - he is such a sweetheart!

P.S. A special thank you to my Mom for her help with this session! You are the best!

Senior | Class of 2012 | Taylor

2011-11-08T13:18:00.001-05:00

We had such a beautiful fall day for Taylor's senior session! As I've mentioned, I absolutely love senior sessions! Not only because they are tons of fun, but because I get to meet some of the nicest, inspiring people. And Taylor is one of those people. She's quietly confident, shy and sweet. Once she gets to know you, she has a laugh that is contagious. And she has a great smile and warm eyes. Taylor is a gorgeous young lady, inside and out, as you'll soon see, and I just know she's got a brilliant future ahead of her. She's studying to be a dental hygienist, and is looking forward to continuing on her journey to help others. Taylor, thank you for sharing your afternoon with me, and for rocking out your session! And now for some of my favorites from the day! Friends and family, please feel free to visit Taylor's online gallery here!

Taylor, you are beautiful! A favorite!

Then it was time for a location and wardrobe change...this next series are some of my favorites!

Gorgeous!

Work.It.Out! Yes!!!

I love everything about this image.

P.S. Another favorite!

Did I mention that we had amazing light throughout our entire session?

Another favorite!

Oh, Taylor, just stop it! Sooo pretty!

Taylor, Taylor, Taylor!!! I had so much fun during your senior session! Thank you for letting go in front of the camera, and for being who you are and for allowing your sweet personality shine through!

I'm so excited to see where the future takes you! Best wishes for the rest of your senior year!!!