Rebecca Eileen Designs

Moving . . .

2011-10-04T01:51:00.000-07:00

If you have noticed a lack of blogging and pretty pictures here, it is because we have MOVED! Yippee!!!!!! I was waiting to post many recent sessions until the new blog was fully up and functioning, but it is all set! I am still working on the site and updating a few things, but please check out the new blog at http://www.rebeccaeileendesigns.com/blog. And if you still haven't become a fan of the Rebecca Eileen Designs facebook page, please do so (by clicking "Like" on the page) in order to stay notified of cool announcements like this one. :) In other news, thanks to amazing clients, I am completely booked for the rest of 2011. Now booking for early 2012!

Pasadena Family Photographer: Sisters+Cousins+Family=Love

2011-08-29T21:21:00.000-07:00

I was honored when this family asked me to shoot their other cousins visiting from Northern California after we had fun on this shoot in June. And I remember telling them that I didn't mind the drive to Pasadena for this session--it was a chance to sit still by myself in the peace and quiet for a change! Once I got there, I loved the beautiful green colors in the shoot, and I loved the family even more. I know I am totally partial to sisters, but I loved the interaction between these three, and the looks these grown children would elicit from their parents. And then, after a wonderful shoot, I got to enjoy the ride home. :)

Summer Fun: The Miller (and extended) Family

2011-08-26T14:16:00.000-07:00

Enjoy the slideshow to see many more photos!

Having just spent time with extended family from Washington here for my sister's wedding, I was excited to shoot the Miller family again, this time with family visiting from Kansas! I have fond memories of summer trips to visit my cousins--sleeping under the stars at Aunt Karen's or swimming in Lake Sylvia--and I am sure these kids will have memories of their own, too. I love the bright colors and jewel tones they wore, and the little moments we captured of them laughing and playing together.

All Aboard!

2011-08-24T10:44:00.000-07:00

We had fun climbing all over this tractor and nearby train tracks during this session. This little one was such a ham--posing, playing, and having a ball. Many more to share later . . .

And in the midst of recovering from four (AMAZING) weddings in a row, moving, unpacking, getting ready for school, and mourning the end of summer, I forgot to celebrate reaching 100 fans on the new Rebecca Eileen Designs facebook page. Thanks, everyone! If you haven't already, be sure to "like" the new page to stay updated on recent sessions and exciting events . . . I will be sending out holiday session info this week and booking for the rest of this year!

in the works . . .

2011-08-23T02:33:00.000-07:00

The Wedding of Josh and Amber

Keesha and Juan

Amanda (my sister!) and David

And these cuties and their families. All coming SO VERY soon!

Orange County Family Photographer: The Maturo family

2011-08-18T10:43:00.000-07:00

Isn't little Vinnie the cutest, ever?! He is turning one soon, and I loved this family session we did to celebrate the occasion. It was perfect--the family lives nearby and enjoys walks here often, browsing in the cute shops, enjoying the fountain, pulling the wagon with their precious cargo in tow. Nothing could be better for a summer afternoon. Enjoy just a few of my favorites . . .

Orange Couny Engagement Photographer: Amy and Rudy

2011-08-11T23:59:00.000-07:00

I could not be happier for these two . . . Amy is a dear friend and deserves the absolute best. And it is so clear to me from watching them interact how much Rudy adores and loves her. Ever the protector (and a seasoned cop), Rudy's eyes constantly scanned the perimeter every time I placed them in a new location; he just couldn't help himself. :) I seriously had to remind him to look at me or wherever I wanted him to look. Thankfully, I have no doubt that he will continue to watch over and protect my friend in their new life together. Thank you, Amy and Rudy, for including me in your special day--can't wait!

Orange County Family Photographer: Hochgesang Family

2011-08-10T09:51:00.000-07:00

I love it when clients choose a location that has special meaning to them. When we were brainstorming for the Hochgesang Family Session, they suggested the OC Fair--a family tradition every summer. It was perfect . . . brightly colored backdrops, cotton candy, photobooth fun, yummy fried foods, and country goodness = beautiful memories! This family could not be more gorgeous, inside and out.

Orange County Wedding Photographer: Josh and Amber

2011-08-02T20:40:00.000-07:00

Cannot wait to share more from this BEAUTIFUL day. So honored to have been a part of it.

Orange County Family Photographer: Welcome Baby Jersey

2011-08-02T20:22:00.000-07:00

This mom is AMAZING--she was so calm and easy-going, just weeks after giving birth to baby number FOUR, and looking so gorgeous and stylish the whole time. She is my hero. Seriously, I do not know how she does it. Her family is beautiful; I loved the way they simply played together, laughed together, and enjoyed each other. Congratulations, Sutton family. Baby Jersey (love the name!) is a precious addition to your already wonderful family.

Orange County Family and Baby Photographer: Penelope Jane

2011-07-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

This little girl is a lucky one--she has AMAZING parents, and her nursery is the.cutest.i.have.ever.seen. Chris and Layla so thoughtfully chose items for Penny's nursery that are meaningful to her legacy--momentos from their own childhoods and from grandparents and great grandparents. So beautiful! And as Chris and Layla are both dedicated teachers who truly care about their students (Chris is seriously one of the hardest working teachers I know), Penny is going to be raised with awesome role models of compassion and service. And there will NOT be a better looking red-headed family around. :) Congratulations, Chris and Layla. She is perfect.

Fun at the Fair

2011-07-28T22:18:00.000-07:00

Just the tiniest taste of the fun we had at the fair last night--the family even treated me to my first fried cheese on a stick! Yum!

Orange County Senior Portraits: Tessa

2011-07-26T21:50:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness, I loved this session with Tessa! She is BEAUTIFUL--the last picture (above the slideshow) with her looking up and off to the side is my absolute favorite. It was so nice to see her outside of the classroom, and Brianne did an amazing job at hair, makeup and styling. Tessa was an absolute pro; she could change from smiling to serious in 2 seconds flat and stayed so natural. I, on the other hand, look like a complete dork every time I try to do the serious model thing. Thank you, Tessa (and Brianne) for such a fun day and an amazing shoot. Tessa--you are gorgeous and I wish you all the best in your senior year!

Check it out!

2011-07-25T23:44:00.000-07:00

I finally have a separate facebook page for Rebecca Eileen Designs--please check it out here! I'm thrilled with all of the changes and exciting things happening over the next few months--can't wait to share them with you. And please pardon the "mess" as I (try to) make it all happen. :)

Swimming

2011-07-21T00:04:00.000-07:00

We are swimming a lot this summer . . .

in swimming lessons

in backyard pools

in the moving boxes that are filling the house

in so many amazing photo sessions

in exciting changes and new ideas for Rebecca Eileen Designs

in eager anticipation for upcoming weddings

I am trying to remember to SLOW down, not just so that I don't drown,

but so I can savor the moments with my little fish forever.

(Disclaimer: The googles were on clearance, fit the *required* colors of pink and purple, and made Taylor squeal with delight. My sisters should be proud that I let her wear them EVERY day even though I think they are ridiculous.)

Orange County Senior Portraits: Tessa

2011-07-19T10:30:00.000-07:00

So many more to share, but couldn't wait on these few. LOVE them! Thanks, Tessa. :)

Orange County Family Photographer: Abell Family

2011-07-18T21:56:00.000-07:00

Loved, loved, loved the way this family interacted with one another. Lots of hugs, smiles, playful punches, and teasing between shots--the perfect mix of love and sibling rivalry. :) Poor Hunter is surrounded by girls--we joked that he is going to be well-trained and will make a GREAT catch for a lucky girl some day. Look how cute he is already! Thank you, Abell family, for this amazing session.

Someone's Turning Two Soon . . .

2011-07-16T16:39:00.000-07:00

I have been lucky enough to watch little Miss Audrey grow up from the time she was born! And we had so much fun on this little shoot for her birthday invitations--chasing rabbits, pointing out birds, and making animal noises. She has such a sweet little voice and inquisitive nature. I love the way those big eyes just take it all in and stare straight at the camera. Her daddy is going to have to keep those teenage boys away when she grows up, especially because a new little beauty is on the way. Good thing he is a football coach and can keep those high school boys in line and away from his girls. :) Happy (early) 2nd Birthday, Audrey!

Coming Soon . . .

2011-07-14T01:43:00.000-07:00

Love the smiles of this family! :) More soon.

San Diego Engagement Session: Amanda and David

2011-07-09T00:47:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe the wedding of these two is coming up so soon! I am so excited for Amanda and David--and not just because I happen to be related to her. :) Their wedding is going to be a wondeful celebration of family, faith, and love. CANNOT WAIT!

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-04T23:57:00.000-07:00

One Year Ago

2011-06-15T00:30:00.000-07:00

One year ago today, my ~~little~~ (NINE pound, FIFTEEN ounce) baby was born.

And I love her as much as I did that day--which is more than she will ever know.

Orange County Engagement Photography: Keesha + Juan

2011-06-13T13:31:00.000-07:00

How could I not immediately adore this couple when they are both high school teachers? Their story is so sweet, and I bet their students are beyond excited for them. I love the way Keesha and Juan love each other--the way she pretends to be embarrassed when he makes her dance in the street, or the way he whispers in her ear. His favorite part, of course, was when I would tell him to lean in close, or when I would finally give him permission to kiss his bride. I CANNOT WAIT to be part of their special day.

Orange County Senior Portraits: Courtney

2011-06-11T16:18:00.000-07:00

After shooting one of her best friends Allie, I was so excited to have fun with Courtney. Another BEAUTIFUL girl--inside and out. Courtney just has a poised grace about her, and I loved watching how much her parents obviously love and adore her. I can't imagine the mixed feelings they must feel as they watch her graduate and head to college. Congrats, Courtney!

Orange County Senior Portraits: Allie

2011-06-08T16:30:00.000-07:00

Amazing. Amazing. Amazing. Allie is amazing. She is a stud in the classroom, outside the classroom, on the field, and in her faith. I am so excited for her as she continues her journey and heads to UC Davis to play lacrosse. Congrats, Allie!

Coming Soon: More Gorgeous Senior Portraits

2011-06-06T21:17:00.000-07:00

I am so blessed to get to photograph such amazing seniors. Seriously, can these girls get any more beautiful???

And they are the REAL DEAL--so genuine, so sweet. More on the way!

Sneak Peek: Four Generations

2011-06-05T20:48:00.000-07:00

Most of my extended family lives in Washington State, and this shoot made me miss them! I have amazing memories of camping trips, sleeping out on the lawn together, and listening to stories of my parents' childhood. And while I was so sad to miss my cousin's recent wedding, I am so excited many of my relatives will be coming this summer for my sister's--I can't wait! For this session, it was so special to see FOUR generations of family together. So special! Here are just a few of my favorites of the crazy cousins playing and laughing together.

Coming Soon: Gorgeous Senior Portraits

2011-06-01T23:09:00.000-07:00

It's going to be hard to narrow these down! So beautiful--inside and out. :) More to come!

Coming Soon: Cousins

2011-06-01T01:01:00.000-07:00

Sneak Peek: An "English" Baby

2011-05-27T01:43:00.000-07:00

I sometimes think I should record the conversations we have in class--my high schoolers have an AMAZING talent for steering conversation away from the lesson and onto ANYTHING else. I can actually see the wheels turning in their heads as they smile so sweetly and ask questions about r.a.n.d.o.m. topics, hopefully stalling the work for as long as they can. Case in point--this week, a senior blurted out, "Is it true that you English teachers try to get pregnant all together? Or at least all try to have the baby in the summer?" And then I watched forty faces turn to me expectantly, as they did the math and thought of who.knows.what. But as I did not really want to have a conversation about the reproductive habits of my colleagues, we moved on. Quickly.

Yes, this adorable little one is yet another "English" baby, but we are just so happy he is here. :) He has perfect features--amazing clear skin, precious pouty lips, and a sweet sleepy smile. And we can't wait to watch him grow up, chasing after his proud big sister and the other kids as they run through the halls of the 400 Building.

Shhh . . .

2011-05-18T23:27:00.000-07:00

The Lens Loves and A Slideshow :)

2011-05-18T10:55:00.000-07:00

Here's a slideshow of the fun family session with the Lidyoff family and the awesome VW van.

And the session is highlighted today at the Lens Loves--check it out!

Sneak peek: The Lidyoff Family

2011-05-16T18:34:00.000-07:00

When Jerome and I first met Luke and Lanette, they were pregnant with Braiden. Over the past several years, we have been blessed by their friendship, generosity, and heart for others. And I have had the pleasure of watching Braiden grow into a talented musician and observing Noelle develop her own
personality, while sharing her momma's cute sense of style. :) Lanette did all of the hard work styling her cute family for the shoot and bringing AMAZING props--my job was easy!

Coming Soon

2011-05-05T22:27:00.000-07:00

Can't wait to show more of this fun.fun.fun session!

Surrounded

2011-05-05T00:47:00.000-07:00

This beautiful young lady was simply surrounded on her quince--surrounded by love, surrounded by family, surrounded by tradition, and perhaps most importantly, surrounded by boys. :) And I don't think she minded one bit. Thank you, Yesi, for the privilege of capturing your special day.

Coming Soon: Keesha + Juan Engagement

2011-05-04T22:01:00.000-07:00

More and more and more coming soon!

Coming Soon: Amanda + David Engagement

2011-05-03T22:02:00.000-07:00

More soon. :)

Flowers in the Field

2011-05-02T23:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T00:27:00.000-07:00

But he was pierced for our transgressions,

he was crushed for our iniquities;

the punishment that brought us peace was on him,

and by his wounds we are healed. Isaiah 53:5

The Hertzig Girls

2011-04-19T12:00:00.000-07:00

"For there is no friend like a sister, in calm or stormy weather,

to cheer one on the tedious way, to fetch one if one goes astray,

to lift one if one totters down, to strengthen whilst one stands."

Christina G. Rossetti

I hope and I pray the my girls, like these two, will become forever best friends--holding each other close. Just a few of my favorites of these two beautiful sisters. :)

Sneak Peek: Baby Addison

2011-04-12T19:35:00.000-07:00

Little Miss Addison was not quite sitting by herself, and she was NOT happy with any props, but she was as sweet as could be when in her mama's arms--or flying high in the sky. I was so happy to meet and photograph the newest addition to this great family--and I know her older brother and sister love her very much. I adore Addison's precious expressions and pretty blue eyes, but the last one with her eyes closed melts my heart.

Coming Soon: Mommy and Me

2011-04-11T23:09:00.000-07:00

Everyday Moments

2011-04-09T23:12:00.000-07:00

"Mom, I will not stay your baby forever." This is what Taylor teasingly tells me as a steal a snuggle before bed, imploring her to promise me the opposite. And this is why I am vowing to capture more "everyday moments" . . . those normal/unbrushed hair/stained shirt/messy house kinds of moments, so that I will remember my babies and these precious moments as they are today.

Harnett Family Slideshow

2011-04-08T07:57:00.000-07:00

Sneak Peek: The Harnett Family

2011-04-06T00:17:00.000-07:00

I am blessed to work with amazing people--people like Corinna. She teaches in the room next door, and although she doesn't know it yet, my seniors are planning to serenade her class before the end of the year--with or without my approval. :) Her two are just a little older than my two, and I have so enjoyed watching them grow up. Hopefully, these pictures will help capture the moments when they are cute and cuddly and sweet and innocent--before they turn into the terrifying teenagers we teach. :)

Coming Soon . . .

2011-04-03T23:27:00.000-07:00

Sneak Peek: Army Family

2011-03-22T16:44:00.000-07:00

When they were dating, Amber and Dan used to enjoy the scenic spots of San Diego. They would spend afternoons together in Seaport Village, playing checkers outside a cute little coffeeshop and bookstore--darling old men would choose sides and cheer them along, offering advice on how to beat one another. Now, many years later, they return to their special spot, but this time, with their ten month-old son in tow. I was so lucky to meet this adorable family of three during their visit from Alaska, where they are currently stationed. Thank you, Blank family, for having fun with me and allowing me the privilege of capturing your sweet family!

Coming Soon: Army Baby

2011-03-18T22:18:00.000-07:00

Love. Times Three.

2011-03-16T15:30:00.000-07:00

After EIGHT girl cousins, this family finally welcomed a boy! And ~~little~~ big Brady is already six month old--sitting, smiling, and waving for the camera. It is not hard to see that he is showered with love from his older sisters, as they dote on him and fight over who gets to hold him first. This family is so special, and they remind me of God's beautiful gift of life, family, and answered prayers.

The Cotter Kids

2011-03-14T16:34:00.000-07:00

Unlike Me

2011-02-25T00:20:00.000-08:00

Unlike me, Aubrey is a morning person. She laughs and talks to herself as I hit the snooze button repeatedly, wipe the sleep from my eyes, and struggle to get myself and two little ones out the door ~~on time~~.

But like me, Aubrey's eyes let you know when she is smiling (my sisters used to tease me that my eyes would "squint" and disappear when I was smiling or laughing). Like me, she has trouble sleeping if she's too hot. Like me, she thinks Taylor is hilarious and is entertained all day long. Like me, she knows her daddy is special. And she reminds me to be more like her, savoring simple moments.

Hello. From Aubrey.

2011-02-19T00:50:00.000-08:00

He Asked . . .

2011-02-17T00:52:00.000-08:00

My ~~little~~ sister is engaged!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Congrats to David and Amanda. :)

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T00:26:00.000-08:00

Ruth + AJ: Kamee June Workshop

2011-02-07T23:37:00.000-08:00

A week ago, I was so.so.so excited to attend a workshop by the fabulous Kamee June. From the moment of arrival when she pulled me into a warm hug, I knew I was going to love and savor every moment. As a former English teacher, Kamee is a kindred spirit--and she so generously shares her passion, her creativity, and her wisdom. I left feeling incredible thankful and inspired.

And . . . I obviously had trouble narrowing down the pictures of Ruth and AJ. They are such a GORGEOUS couple, both inside and out. I love the little looks between them, her gorgeous eyes staring straight at the camera, the way he would look at her, touch her, whisper in her ear. And in between shots, we were pretty sure they weren't just talking about the Mexican food we were going to have for dinner. :)

Special thanks to: Kamee June, workshop hostess and superstar extraordinaire; Katrina Kirk, workshop stylist; Galleano Winery, workshop venue; Ruth Stainer and AJ Benton, workshop models; Amanda Schiavi, workshop director.

2010 Highlights

2011-02-03T17:58:00.000-08:00

I'm only a month or so behind :), but I wanted to share just a few from many of my favorite 2010 sessions! I finally accepted the fact that I was never going to be able to post all of the sessions individually on the blog during the holiday crunch. And.that's.ok. Hard for a perfectionist like me to admit, but I thought this was a good way to compromise. And now that I've spent the month of January recovering, I am so excited for all that 2011 will bring. Thank you for sharing your families and special moments with me!

Growing Up Too Fast

2011-01-29T19:19:00.000-08:00

Today you turn three, and I cannot believe how quickly time has flown by. Three years ago was a REALLY.LONG.DAY but when you finally arrived that night, you changed our lives forever. You are a real little person now--with definite opinions, thoughts, (endless) questions, and stories. I'm sorry you have inherited my OCD tendancies to close doors and cupboards, but you have a sense of humor like your dad. You love to laugh and to tease and to get a reaction out of us. My favorite this week is the way you can recite the pledge of allegiance--you constantly amaze and entertain us. Happy Birthday, Taylor. We thank God every day for you.

Can't Wait

2011-01-29T18:03:00.000-08:00

Can't wait to show you more . . .

Conversations on the Sidewalk

2011-01-27T21:51:00.000-08:00

Taylor: Mom, look at what I can do!
Me: I know, Taylor. You can roll your tongue. You haven't stopped doing it all week.
Taylor: Yep, I can do it. Daddy can do it. But you CAN'T do it.
Me: Nope. I cannot.
Taylor: Why can't you do it?
Me: Because that's just the way God made me.
Taylor: Well, maybe God can show you how to do it.
Me: I love you, Taylor.
Taylor: I love you, too, Mommy.

I love my girls.

Eleven Months

2011-01-26T00:40:00.000-08:00

Only eleven months to go until I can enjoy THIS again.

Sweet Perfection: Baby Luke

2011-01-19T00:13:00.000-08:00

Look at his cute little feet (I know, I know, I am obsessed with feet). His stylish little mohawk. His sweet sleeping face. From head to toe, he is perfect. And he reminds me that my baby is not a newborn anymore, and to remember how quickly time flies as they grow. Congratulations, Karen and Scott; Luke is lucky to have you as parents, and we are so happy for you!

This Week

2011-01-17T23:48:00.000-08:00

This week I will: Begin Anew. Start Fresh. Breathe. Laugh. Run. Swim. Snuggle. Clean my ~~whole house~~. Maybe ~~my room~~. Ok, my closet.

Working on my 2011 goals. I'll keep you posted. :)

Amber + Josh Engagement Session

2011-01-09T14:13:00.000-08:00

The first of a thousand sessions to catch up on . . . Amber and Josh are AMAZING! We picked this location as it was fitting since they met each other during cross country, and I know I say this about all of my awesome clients, but I could have hung out with Amber and Josh forever. I actually had to remind myself to stop talking so much in between shots. :) My favorites are the little moments where they are looking at each other, or when Josh would make Amber laugh. They were super easygoing, comfortable with each other, and I love how excited they are to be getting married. And I CANNOT WAIT for the wedding. :)

Merry Christmas

2010-12-26T22:41:00.000-08:00

All is Calm

2010-12-21T10:09:00.000-08:00

Eventually, I will recover and catch up from the craziness of these past two months or so. But for now, I am going to slow down and enjoy the sweetness of the Season. "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of heavenly lights." James 1:17

Coming Soon: Amber + Josh

2010-11-17T00:26:00.000-08:00

I think this might be my most favorite picture. Ever.

At least for the moment.

Sneak Peek: Luke Skywalker and Family

2010-11-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

This wonderful family wanted me to capture their newest addition--Luke Skywalker. :) So we had fun playing in their amazing yard and chasing the dog around, bribing him with treats and his favorite stuffed toy. Not to be outdone, the boys enjoyed showing off their favorite tricks--Robbie showed me that he is an expert "snapper" and is talented at making noises with various body parts. (I saved those photos for their gallery.) And Jared was happy to show off his specialty--his many gadgets and technology toys. Thank you, Hagar family, for another wonderful session.

Coming Soon: Baby Silas

2010-11-13T00:06:00.000-08:00

I.am.swamped. with editing (actually, I'm behind in grading, cleaning house, life in general), but only because I've been having fun doing so many FABULOUS sessions with AMAZING friends, families, and new ~~clients~~ friends. I just couldn't help myself from posting just this one of baby Silas. More coming soon! :)

Sneak Peek: The Marshall Family

2010-11-12T23:47:00.000-08:00

I love how these two brothers look so different--big brown eyes for big brother Ethan, and little Levi has those blonde curls and gorgeous blue eyes. Makes me wonder what Taylor and Aubrey will look like in a year or two. :) This family is so friendly, so easygoing--thank you Marshall family for letting me take pictures once again. And your gallery is loading as ~~we speak~~ I write. :)

Sneak Peek: The Soukup Family

2010-11-12T17:43:00.000-08:00

I think Nicole may have been one of the first teachers I met when I started at the high school. I remember being in awe of her insane organization skills; I coveted her book number labels and filing sytem. :) And I still remember little Macy coloring in the classroom while Mom got ready for the school year. Now Macy is quite a bit older, loves to read, and helps take care of her younger siblings. Owen lost a tooth on the day of our shoot, and little Easton kept us all busy chasing after him on a very HOT afternoon. Thank you, Soukup family, for the pleasure of catching up and photographing your beautiful family! Here are just a few of my favorites from the gallery.

Sneak Peek: The Nagata Family

2010-11-07T18:50:00.000-08:00

Yet another special family for another fabulous session! Miss Kaylee turns three this week, and is one of Taylor's best friends. And little Leah was born just two weeks before Aubrey, so our girls have many years of growing up together to look forward to. I loved the bright colors of this shoot, and we were blessed with beautiful light! Thank you, Nagata family for letting me photograph your family and for being the amazing, giving people that you are. :)

Ladybugs

2010-11-07T18:31:00.000-08:00

My Pumpkins

2010-11-03T01:16:00.000-07:00

Sneak Peek: Hannah and Family

2010-11-03T01:14:00.000-07:00

Sick

2010-10-31T01:09:00.000-07:00

My poor baby has been sick this week. As in scary sick. 105 degree fever sick. And just when I thought it was improving, she developed a rash from the antibiotic that was supposed to be making her better. But she is finally on the mend and her smiles and giggles and cute baby sounds are returning, so I will be getting back to the grading and session editing I am so behind on. Eventually. After I snuggle some more, or watch her asleep on the floor.

Sneak Peek: The Mason Family

2010-10-28T23:12:00.000-07:00

After days and days of rain, we decided to brave the weather for our scheduled shoot. I love these moments we captured in between falling raindrops and disappearing light. This family is special to me--Candie is a dear friend, Aaron knows my pain as an English teacher, and Brooklyn gives Taylor her hand-me-down clothes. And who knows? Maybe Jack will become my future son-in-law when he (wisely) chooses to marry Aubrey one day. :)

Coming Soon: Jack and Family

2010-10-22T23:31:00.000-07:00

Washington Girls Weekend (cont'd)

2010-10-22T22:48:00.000-07:00

I am so overwhelmingly blessed and lucky to be part of an amazing extended family--a legacy of love and strong faith passed down through my grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, and now their kids, too. Last weekend, I was able to join four generations of important women and girls in my life for what has become an anuual tradition. 13 adults and 8 little girls crowded together for a weekend of stories, food, crafts, beach, walks, games of shanghai rummy, and the famous goodie bags. . . And I obviously focused on the kids in these pics--except for Aubrey, who was usually snuggled close or sleeping inside :)

Washington Girls Weekend

2010-10-22T22:38:00.000-07:00

To Grandma's House

2010-10-19T23:54:00.000-07:00

Sunday

2010-10-12T14:56:00.000-07:00

Just a few I quickly snapped on Sunday in our ~~backyard~~ overgrown wilderness that has taken over. Actually, I persuaded Jerome NOT to cut it until I could take a few pics in it first. :) I have been feeling guilty about how few pictures I am taking of my own children. I vow to be better!

Sneak Peek: Shipman Family

2010-10-06T23:01:00.001-07:00

Miss Samantha recently turned four, and now her little brother is ONE! Don't they both have great hair?! :) We (thankfully) postponed our original date for the session and it turned out to be the hottest day of the year. So glad we waited a few days. And so glad I got to photograph this very special family.

Coming Soon: Shipman Family

2010-10-03T00:39:00.000-07:00

Cousins, Cousins Everywhere

2010-10-01T00:04:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few from a session that was weeks ago; I have been trying to catch up in posting to the blog and am almost there! Good friends Bob and Amy asked if I would be willing to take "family" pictures--and by family they meant 15 cousins! :) I LOVE that their extended family tries to get together often, and even though it has gotten harder as the kids have gotten older, they still try to make it a commitment to celebrate birthdays together every month or so. On this particular Sunday afternoon, they laughed, teased, wrestled, and enjoyed each other's company as I tried to capture their obvious love for each other on camera. And then they enjoyed pizza delivered to the park--a perfect way to end the day.

Sneak Peek: Miller Family

2010-09-27T21:12:00.001-07:00

The Miller family is excitedly awaiting the arrival of baby #3--not that you could tell she is only weeks away from delivery. Doesn't she look amazing?! Thank you, Miller family, for having fun with me. Your little boy is so lucky and blessed to be part of such a loving family!

Coming Soon: Miller Family

2010-09-26T07:43:00.000-07:00

Quick Look: Hannah

2010-09-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

I could have hung out with this family FOREVER! They were so easygoing, friendly, and immediately won me over when they offered me a diet coke. :) Phil and I traded teaching stories, I admired their photographs from amazing places and mission trips around the world, and I clearly saw their heart for youth, their families and friends, and of course, their adorable new daughter. Thank you, Sarah and Phil, for letting me into your beautiful home and having me photograph your precious family. You guys are awesome!

Diana's Quince

2010-09-23T22:48:00.001-07:00

Just a few from Diana's special day! I had the pleasure of shooting her quinceanera, and we got to ride in style to the beach in between the ceremony and the reception. Everyone was GORGEOUS and I loved the gold and black against the backdrop of the sandy shore. One of my favorite parts of the day: the group of high school girls giggling in the background as we took pictures. They eventually got up the nerve to approach the guys--and even though the guys tried to play it cool, this totally made their day. :)

Quick Look: Mason Maternity

2010-09-18T23:59:00.001-07:00

These two are excitedly awaiting the arrival of their first--a little girl. Yeah for girls! Julie is simply gorgeous, and it was special that her mom could join us for a few photos as well. And Kyle kept us entertained by sharing information on all of the trees and plants that surrounded us. :) Here are a few from their gallery--thank you again, Julie and Kyle for letting me photograph such a special time!

Quick Look: Carrizosa Family

2010-09-18T23:42:00.001-07:00

This family was AMAZING! My friend Wendy is so giving, so sweet, and she really wanted to have her entire extended family photographed together. We finally found a time that worked for everyone and did a MONSTER 3-in-1 shoot (see the pictures of Noemi and Lailani). Even though they are all "grown up," I LOVED watching the five siblings interact, laugh, and tease one another mercilessly--and the pride in Mom and Dad's eyes as they watched their grown children who obviously love each other very much. Here are just a few . . .

Quick Look: Three Little Monkeys

2010-09-15T00:41:00.000-07:00

As a new mom of two, I have a newfound appreciation and admiration for moms with more--especially those with BOYS. This brave mom has 3 little monkeys to keep her on her toes! :) But baby Gideon was so sweet, so mellow. He just lay beneath the trees and let me snap away! Such beautiful dark eyes and eyelashes, I can't wait to see what he looks like as he grows up and chases after his two older brothers.

Quick Look: Noemi

2010-09-14T00:19:00.001-07:00

Noemi was AMAZING to shoot; she was easy and natural in front of the camera and had a mature confidence about her. We had fun getting shots for her upcoming Sweet 16 invites, and since she also has a love for photography, we chatted about cameras and shooting the entire time. Thank you, Noemi!

Quick Look: Lailani

2010-09-13T23:37:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness, Lailani is gorgeous! And she can pose ALL day long. She was eager to do anything I asked her to, and had plenty of ideas of her own. :) I have a feeling her mom and dad are going to have to keep their eyes on her--she is going to drive the boys crazy with those beautiful brown eyes!

Never Forget

2010-09-11T23:58:00.000-07:00

Coming Soon: Hannah

2010-09-07T01:02:00.001-07:00

Coming Soon: Rosner Bunch

2010-08-25T00:19:00.000-07:00

just one of the boys . . .

Sneak Peek: Abby

2010-08-24T00:03:00.000-07:00

Coming Soon: Noemi

2010-08-23T00:38:00.000-07:00

Coming Soon: Lailani

2010-08-23T00:34:00.001-07:00

Sneak Peek: Fabulous Family of Four

2010-08-20T00:46:00.001-07:00

I am so blessed and lucky to work with people like Jane. She is giving, genuine, and shares a few of my OCD tendancies. :) Her classroom is by far the most organized in the building--and she is the queen of fixing typos and formatting all of our handouts. But more importantly, she is a beautiful person--inside and out, a loving wife, and a great mother to her two little ones. I loved watching her family interact and simply enjoy one another.