Our Life is Now

Last October we had lifestyle photos taken by my dear friend, Lily Glass, and I couldn't be happier with the results.  The last time we had a professional portraits taken Caleb was turning one; so we were definitely overdue.  I truly understand the importance of hiring a professional to document a growing family.  But I also understand all the reasons why one might want to postpone taking them.  Sometimes it's something fairly simple, like "my home isn't photo-worthy" or "I want to lose the baby weight first" or "I don't know what to wear" or "I'm not photogenic."  Or there could be a deeper reason.  We have wanted to grow our family and have experienced too many heartbreaking losses in the process.  I think that I was waiting for things to work out for us before we could photograph our family.  But last fall I decided that now is the time to document our family's story- during the struggles and the waiting and the hoping.  So Lily documented a snippet of our story one morning that included a few of our favorite things- enjoying pancakes together and laughing with our amazing little boy.  

When I look at these candid moments I see God's grace and love in our lives. I see how lucky I am to have Brandon and Caleb in my life.  I look at these pictures and I see that we are still here together, through all the struggles. Laughing together. Our story isn't over.  But even as we look to the future, I am reminded that all we have is today.  All we have is each other and a life to live today.  And I'm so grateful for that.  

Owen is One | Orange County Family Portrait Photographer

It's been a joy to photograph this amazing family over the years.  Their love for one another clearly continues to grow.  It was an honor to document Lyla while she was still in her mama's belly, when she was a newborn, at her first, second, and third birthdays, while Owen was still in his mama's belly, when he was a newborn, and now for his first birthday.  With my work I'm so privileged to watch families grow over the years and I feel a little like an honorary auntie.  I truly love these kiddos and their parents!  xoxo

Katie | Bonita High School Senior Portrait Photographer

I had such a fun time photographing Katie for her high school senior portraits.  Her grandmother is is a dear friend of mine, so I have seen Katie grow up in pictures from an adorable preschooler to a gorgeous young woman.  When you spend time with Katie you can see that she is a remarkable woman and that her inner beauty shines as brightly as her outer beauty.  It was unusually overcast the afternoon we met at Laguna Beach, but that didn't stop us from splashing in the waves at the end of her shoot.  Katie- it was my pleasure to spend the afternoon with you and to document this important milestone in your life.  I hope you enjoy your senior year to the fullest!

Baby Benjamin | Los Angeles Newborn Photographer

Baby Benjamin was welcomed with love by his big brother, big sister, and parents. I had the honor of documenting this amazing milestone for this growing family.  During my time with the Shumaker family it was evident that this little guy is going to be smothered with love by all who surround him.  This year I have refocused my business on high school senior portraits and I don't photograph many newborn sessions anymore.  But I had to make an exception when my dear friend asked me to photograph her sweet family. Much love to your family as you soak in these first weeks as a family of five!

Zoe | La Canada Senior Portrait Photographer

Zoe was such a delight to meet and photograph! She is a rising senior at Flintridge Prep, in La Canada, and has some big plans in store for her future.  In my short time with Zoe and her mom, it was clear to me that she is a pretty amazing young woman.  She is well-rounded and splits her time and energy between several interests.  Some of which include playing on the water polo team and pursuing her love of English literature.  She was one of a select number of students from all over the world that was accepted to a special pre-college summer program at Brown University.  Zoe, thanks for trusting me to document this incredible and unique time in your life.  You truly have an exciting future ahead of you as you boldly pursue your dreams.

Zoe's mom is incredibly supportive and loving to her daughter, so I wanted to grab a shot at the end of the session to celebrate their relationship and friendship.