#exist in photos

If you follow me on Instagram, you may have noticed that I mark each portrait with the hashtag "exist in photos."  This is a hashtag that I find particularly meaningful and it serves as a good reminder.  The most important part of photography to me is capturing memories for families to hold onto for generations.  Too often, people look back through photos and realize that a beloved family member was either behind the camera, or too shy or ashamed to be photographed.  Do not be afraid to be in front of the camera!  No matter what flaws you think you have, your family wants to see you in photos.  I love taking photos that show you how beautiful you really are, photos that you and your family can cherish for years to come.  So, exist with your family, exist in love, and exist in photos.

These two were so happy to get a beautiful couples photo, and their children will want to hold onto this.  

Children in their Element

More often than not, we want to get photographs of our children when their clothes and hair are perfect.  Realistically, how often does that happen?  I was lucky enough to shoot these sweeties doing what they do.  They were playing, rolling around in the grass, and eating snacks.  This is how children are.  So no, they are not perfectly clean, but the pictures are genuine. 

Vacation

We went on a much needed vacation last week to Iowa.  Seeing his family is so relaxing and rejuvenating.  I love the area and the family.  His brother and sister in law took us into their home for the entire nine days we stayed.  We were so grateful. 
They wanted updated family portraits and I was happy to oblige!