An Alaskan Engagement

Meeting clients for the first time, and then clicking the shutter about 5 minutes later is what I do.

To build trust and have someone feel relaxed within that time frame is a skill, some of it’s learned, and some of it is definitely a God given gift that I don’t take for granted.

These two were willing to come a little earlier than planned to work around weather, and they were so comfortable with each other, that capturing their joy and love for each other was pretty simple! Towards the end, they brought out the pups for some family photos!

Lifestyle Sessions

I get asked a lot if I shoot Newborn Sessions, and I always respond with, “I can come to your home and shoot a “lifestyle session” for you. It will mean that you’re in the photos…” There are some incredible newborn photographers here in Anchorage, two of which I recommend always, AK Design Studio or Autumn Clarkson Photography .

Lifestyle Sessions are more organic in nature and capture your home, and the family dynamic as it is.

This is the gorgeous Shibe family. I met Emma via email first. I was searching for a real estate agent, and I wanted someone that was not pushy, and would listen and be honest and fair. When I read her bio, I knew she was the one! Her and her partner Michelle were God sends for us. They are The dynamic duo at Anchorage Home Real Estate  if you’re in the market!

So back to family…the tables were turned for providing a personal service. I was honored to first capture some sweet baby belly shots for them before their precious girl arrived. Enjoy!And then, a few weeks later, their lives changed forever.

Sarah & Wayde – Hatcher Pass

Alaska never ceases to amaze.

Sunday was one of those days that blew me away…the beauty was inspiring. I had never been to this part of Hatcher Pass. The Mystrom family followed me down a road we had never been and we were so glad we kept going! Enjoy!

“Life’s just one great journey. It’s a road we travel as we go from point A to point B. What makes that journey worthwhile is the people we choose to travel with, the people we hold close as we take steps into the darkness and blindly make our way through life. They’re the people who matter.” – Dr. Suess

A gorgeous vintage wedding in Girdwood, Alaska.

It rained most of the day on July 25, 2016 at Raven Glacier Lodge. But it was a perfect day for Megan and Jared and all the friends and family who came out to witness their beautiful and intimate ceremony. 

There were so many personal touches and hand made items in this wedding. Megan’s dad, Craig hand carved the chilly pepper ring holder “7-25-16 J & M”. And keep scrolling for the jaw dropping hand crafted arbor. Craig  and his beautiful wife Conita designed and decorated the work of art!

Jared reads a journal entry Megan wrote to him…there may have been tears.

If Megan wants to quit her day job, she should most definitely look into becoming a floral designer…she purchased the peonies from P&M Gardens in Eagle River, and assembled this stunning bouquet herself.Megan patiently waits for her guy…

Yes, that’s right, Jared’s eyes are closed and Megan snuck a peek! He just couldn’t keep his eyes of his beautiful bride.Ok, what do you say we go say “I do”?

It’s so wonderful having my hubby, Tommy with me on wedding days…the behind the scenes shots are always my favorites.I had to…

John from Ondago DJ Entertainment is fun & energetic, and his songs are perfectly timed, and his choice of music is perfection! 

The father/daughter and mother/son dances had all of us tearing up…it was so special.

 

 

 

Just a taste of Mobile, AL

Today I needed to get lost in personal work… I remembered images I had taken in Alabama recently and decided to pick a few to share with you.

Mobile is warm, and inviting, but it’s also heavy and stubborn. The humidity wraps around you without asking permission, but it’s also very comforting. The colors hide out until certain times of the day, then they pop out at you when least expected. Enjoy!

The Wiseman Family at McHugh Creek

Last week, The Wiseman family met me and my son at McHugh creek for their family photo session. They hadn’t had their photos taken since the kids were toddler age, so it was time. It was a gorgeous evening and what a treat to hang out with such a sweet family! Enjoy the beauty, and let this be a great reminder to get those photos taken, you won’t regret it! 

E-session @ Knik Glacier… By Plane!

“Would you be willing to fly to our engagement session location?”
“Why yes, yes I would!”
Steve proposed to Amanda on their first airplane ride together on the way to Knik Glacier. So what better way to document it then to fly there!? Knik Glacier is a 1/2 hour ride, about 50 miles north of Anchorage.

At this very moment it started to snow…    These two are beautiful together…a great pair. Tommy and I are really looking forward to photographing their winter wedding!   After taking a few photos, we hopped back in, and Steve flew over the Glacier for a better view…it was spectacular.  

Thanks to Steve for taking this one from his seat… Sleeping Lady is my favorite, so glad I was able to get this shot! 

The Fike Wedding!!

Kristen and Ryan were married at the beautiful Dena’ina Center in downtown Anchorage on Feb 11, 2012. Their friends and family were elated to see them tie the knot! I was honored to capture their lovely day.