I Heart Faces Photo Challenge | By the Book

This is my first entry into a photo challenge; I figure need to get my feet wet at some point, so this is my submission for this week's I Heart Faces photo challenge "By the Book."(I Heart Faces Photo Challenge | By the Book) These two kids were so adorable, as were their parents I must mention, it was hard to snap a bad picture. As you can see, they seemed to enjoy the props their mom brought along...

 This photo was submitted to the I Heart Faces photo challenge - www.iheartfaces.com

Fresno Wildlife Rehabilitation Fundraiser

Before I was asked to photograph this fundraiser, I had no idea that this terrific organization existed! The mission of Fresno Wildlife Rehabilitation is to rehabilitate wounded animals and return them to the wild.  If that is not possible because of some condition, then they find stewards for these animals   It was amazing meeting the people who take care of these animals, but it was more amazing being able to see these creatures up close and to observe their behaviors.  God truly has an imagination.

Waiting with Expectancy...Ashley and Korey

It has been so exciting to watch Ashley "grow" into the idea of becoming a mother...and of twins, no less.  She is such a beautiful woman both inside and out. Korey is one lucky fella; I hope he knows what he has. And those babies are going to have one terrific mama! Thanks, Ashley and Korey, for letting me capture these moments for you...

Watermelon and Family

When Erin, mother of Baby Nixon whom I photographed a few months ago, asked if I could take pictures of her kids and some extended family, I was delighted to say yes. Knowing how gorgeous she and her kids are (and her husband Greg certainly does not hurt the mix ;-), and how easy going they are as well,  I had a feeling the pictures would be fun! I was right. Along with her parents, two of her sisters, her niece, and her four children, Erin and I took a stroll through a busy park on a Saturday afternoon. While meandering along my favorite "path" and taking pictures, I was able to see just how loving this family is toward each other. It was touching to see the grandparents so tenderly interact with their five grandchildren. When Erin's mom (are you sure she is not your older sister? Erin you are lucky to have such good genes!) agreed to let me take some pictures of her holding the littlest ones, I was so happy. Such sweet moments should not be forgotten...  When we "finished," as a reward for their hard "work," I took out the yummy watermelon, and told the kids (and adults) to enjoy. As you can see, they did! Thanks, Erin and family, for inviting me to capture art of your family.

Miss Ryan Grace...12 Days

I really enjoyed getting to know little Ryan's parents today...we had plenty of time to chat while she  decided to be in a good mood :-)   All kidding aside, when she finally did fall asleep, we were able to get some sweet shots. But that is what newborn photography is about...patience and flexibility. I have to say that Ryan's parents exhibited both today. They are excellent parents; Ryan is one blessed girl. Honestly, I had a great time getting to know all three of them.

Wondering about the cleats? Dad is an ex-soccer player and still coaches competitive soccer; he wore the cleats in college...maybe Ryan will follow in his footsteps. Good luck to this new family of three!

Miss Mary...Senior Pics

I can't believe my little Miss Mary is graduating!  I think I have probably known her since she was a little girl in the nursery at church, but she has recently been a part of my life because she is the best babysitter ever! My kids just love her, and now I really see why.  We had such a fabulous time the other night during our photo shoot.  She was so willing to do whatever I asked, and even suggested a few things herself.  I love that! When I got home and started working on her images, my kids asked who it was...I told them it was Mary, and they said they did not recognize her.  I think that says two things: I have not been on a date with my husband in a while (unfortunately), and our Mary has certainly grown up! She is certainly every bit as beautiful on the inside as she is in these pictures. We can't wait to see what God has in store for you this year, beautiful Mary!

Caleb...6 months

I can't believe Caleb is already 6 months old.  It seems as though it was just last month that I was taking his newborn pictures.  Amazing how time goes by... Thanks to his parents for letting me capture him at this cute age, and a big shout-out to his cousins for helping make him laugh during our session.  Those cute, little girls were such a God-send.