Meet My Camera

Mr. Soren

2011-01-22T12:11:00.000-07:00

On December 10, 2010, Mr. Soren joined our family.

He weighed in at a whopping 9 lb 5oz.

He is the reason for my absence. So thank you for your patience.

Once we're done snuggling, business will resume.

Not as normal, because there's big changes coming for Mr. Meet My Camera too. Stay tuned.

Thumbs Up

2010-10-12T20:39:00.000-06:00

Large groups of people can be a challenge.

Except when they all know how to co-ordinate, not match. (Who would have guessed plaid)

And when I happen to have spent summers floating the river with them growing up.

And when you know the kids well enough to tell them to knock it off.

So I guess, they can be. But this group wasn't. We were chased by the setting sun and had a two hour window where we wouldn't have to photo-shop anyone in the picture and came out two thumbs up.

Ok, maybe just one thumb up...

First...

2010-08-17T23:21:00.004-06:00

comes love...

then you know what comes next...

and after that...wait for it....wait for it...

there it is.

Now before you get the wrong impression, this is my old college roommate. We go way back. She has more than one child. (Five to be exact.)

This series just cracks me up because for you non-child people, this is exactly how it goes.

Daily.

But I suppose we wouldn't have it any other way.

Hello you...

2010-08-17T00:13:00.003-06:00

When you're pregnant, you seem to notice all the other pregnant ladies around you. Really, it seems like they are EVERYWHERE. Or maybe it's just because I now live in Utah and there really is an extraordinary number of women who happen to be with child.

Either way it also goes for everyone having children. Spring has sprung, and there are some seriously cute newbies to snuggle. And catch an occasional frame or two.

Every shoot without fail, there is a classic Pirate shot.

Good thing my boys like pirates, because we happen to be getting one more of these come December.

Montana Home

2010-08-17T00:09:00.002-06:00

These are the top of the iceberg of my favorites from a Montana wedding I had the priviledge of shooting.

The skies were miraculously blue after months of rain for their day.

There are so many more to come.

Moving

2010-08-16T23:58:00.004-06:00

If you are still here, you may or may not know of our move to Utah.

I now live in the Utah valley, returning after ten years of being away. My husband has business here, so here we are.

Two days after packing our Montana home and driving all day with our kids, I had an engagement shoot. Things happen for a reason.

Now while I know my move was not strictly to shoot the engagement and wedding of some dear friends of ours from Hamilton, the timing seems awfully suspicious.

This shoot was the first of many things to bring my mind to Utah.

I am pregnant yet again, and this move (and subsequent trips) have taken quite a toll on my overall health. So it has been a slow process getting my blog caught up with all the projects I've been trying to stay on top of.

So, let's hop right back in shall we?

Engagements. Saltaire, UT of course. Never been there before but my soul yearns for a bit more of the flat sandy stuff...

Edible

2010-05-04T13:56:00.002-06:00

*for photographer geeks this is a jpeg straight out of the camera sharpened for web

2010-04-09T21:38:00.005-06:00

Galleries are up!
(Click the image above to enter the proofing site)

A few reminders:
The galleries are listed by game.
Every team is represented, but not all games.
Use the code RUGBYMT for a free 4x6.

You guys did a great job playing.
It was a beautiful day full of lots of sunshine and some seriously good Rugby.
Enjoy the galleries.

Thanks again,

Kris

Stop and Start

2010-04-06T23:17:00.002-06:00

This was the last portrait of Po.

He was our Poodle who was killed by a car the one and only time he decided to run off.

We are sad.

I took this the day before. It was the first haircut I really wanted him to keep.

On a much happier note,

Life begins anew.

This is seven days in the flesh.

I melt.

The Idaho Project

2010-03-24T20:02:00.003-06:00

Meet Rachel, the adorable graduate who drove half way across the United State to get her senior pictures done.

In Idaho.

She's more urban than not so we found some fun things downtown.

(this particular portrait makes my heart sing about the new Lightroom)

And then she met the country.
Snow covered fields, Grand Tetons in the distance.
The kind of country that makes my heart sing.

I think it suits her.

It was a pleasure meeting you, shooting you,
and have some serious fun when you come back for college.

"Silly Boys, Rugby's for Girls"

2010-03-24T15:35:00.002-06:00

My sister-in-law wants that written on the back of all our little girl's shirts when we go out to support our new local Rugby Club.

Four of my nephews are on it.

If you are around you really should come. It's a great sport to watch.

We'll see you there!

Straight up

2010-03-20T23:24:00.001-06:00

The first of many.

Eyebrow

2010-03-20T23:20:00.003-06:00

We just got back from Idaho for a quick family trip.

There were fields of snow and beautiful light. We stayed in a cabin on the river.

I'm recovering from the beauty and the cupcakes.

And, I can't get over how great my niece looked with red hair (she was Annie in a play)

Unfortunately we had to drive back when all was said and done.

Hey Hamilton...I've got something for you!

2010-03-05T16:39:00.002-07:00

I've got exciting news for Hamilton, my first of many Portrait workshops.

A chance for you to get to know my style of family friendly portrait photography and the joy it can bring to your home.

Click on the pictures above for all the details, and then call to sign up.

It really is that easy.

Who says you can't do things just because?

My Grandfather's gift to me

2010-03-05T13:18:00.001-07:00

My Grandfather left us few physical reminders of his life here.

We recently received his history as written by himself, cut short by his death.

He drove a jeep in the war, amongst other things.
(That is a story for a whole other post)

It's from this side of the family I got the trigger happy shutter finger.
My Father and his Father were photographers.

After he passed my grandmother gave me a box of his cameras.

It was years ago, and I wasn't quite sure what to do with them.

One of them had been dropped in the ocean
(for non-cameras people...that is a slow and painful death for a camera)
that was kept as parts for it's replacement.
Luckily for me I had it...the "replacement" had a specially made eye piece so he wouldn't have to wear glasses and I had a few rolls of blurry pictures before figuring out it wasn't my focus, but replacing a tiny piece of glass that made everything right as rain.

There was this very cool looking medium format camera.
The one that has the accordian hood.
My Dad and I spent a week trying to close the dang thing once we opened it.

There was a roll of film in it that had long since gone bad.

So I got a roll, loaded it and took a few pictures LAST FALL and it has since sat on my fireplace biding it's time.

You see, I wasn't really sure anything would come of it.

This last week we got everything developed and they turned out!
It's a miracle.
In my head I was ready to be dissapointed,
but these are horribly beautiful.

Grainy,
underdeveloped,
scratched,
light leaks galore,
blurry.

And I love every one of them.

I've got another roll of film and I'm pretty sure it won't take half of the year to get it developed.

Gems

2010-02-20T17:02:00.001-07:00

Look at this little gem I found today while browsing through things.

Spring is just around the corner...

2010-02-19T09:23:00.002-07:00

To all my favorite people in Kansas City,

We would like to head out to Kansas City the third week of April. I hear it's beautiful that time of year.

I'm sending e-mails, but if I happened to have missed you, drop me a line so we can meet up. There is some good deals this time around, mostly because I want new places to shoot.

There are some amazing places in your beautiful town. I can't wait to get my camera on them.

See you soon,
Kris

The not-vintage

2010-02-18T09:58:00.003-07:00

Vintage has become trendy these days.
Not that I myself don't appreciate my great grandmothers apron I could sell for a fortune on Etsy..
But sometimes you want to celebrate the right now.

As it is.

Perhaps it too shall look vintage in years from now.

Don't misunderstand me, I'm a trendy photographer. After all, I am influenced by the latest and greatest.

But I like to think there's that bit of me and my client in there that's timeless and beautiful. After all, that's what makes those old vintage things so great.

My sister, the assister....
Yes, I just said that.

You may recognize this spot in San Diego...the inspirational and gorgeous Balboa park. It's like Disneyland for a photo shoot (because the real Disneyland isn't nearly as great as you would think for such things)

I even got a ride...because it's a long way walking around that place.

Imagine if you could get one of these at the real Disneyland.

...and with that, we're done.

In the Name of Love

2010-02-16T16:06:00.003-07:00

I know I'm going to get along well with clients when this is their favorite image.

I am beyond excited to shoot Ronnie and Justin this coming spring.
We had a fantastic engagement shoot. And as always had a hard time narrowing them down.

My fav.

Happy Valentines All.

MIA

2010-01-10T23:15:00.002-07:00

I've dropped off the face of the planet on my photo blogging.

It's the nature of things when you are the sole proprietor of your business along with the full time Mother of three.

AND

you were pregnant for 11 weeks.

Then,

you suddenly weren't pregnant as of Chrismas Eve.

So I've managed to pull myself back together enough to start managing more than the basics. If you want to see that I an in fact alive, you can check back on my family blog by clicking our photo on the right.

We are preparing for our first six year old birthday party.

We (meaning my daughter) just lost a first tooth.

My little one's got their first Star Wars shirts and refuse to take them off.

Today was a good day with double digit temperatures, still no snow, but I suppose we'll get some shortly.

All in all, we have had a great year and so much to be thankful for. I am especially thankful here for my clients and friends that make so much possible. To give me the opportunities I've had.

And for the beautiful photographs....Oh, the beautiful photographs.

I was archiving and looking through the beautiful sessions. I know I've fallen short on my promise to get the last of last year blogged, but I hope you'll forgive me and we will move forward together.

This year is going to be a good one...

Mercy me...

2009-12-10T11:09:00.002-07:00

I've let my blog go.

My apologies.

It is with good cause.
*really good!*

It's been Christmas cards and books galore around here. In my particular brand of business (a sole proprietorship, in a part time capacity) one woman just can't do it all. So the blog got cut for a couple of weeks.

Tons of projects just finished. I'll share with you when I can.

I hope the season is bringing you lots of beautiful Christmas Cards and time spent with loved ones.

Our Thanksgiving included 30 in our home for dinner (this isn't the entire family, a few couldn't make it)...

You'd think by now I would know how to look good in a picture.

I got a bug in my rug and finished this beautiful little dandy just in time for Christmas.
It's been three years.
My son was not nearly excited as I was the morning I finished it. Perhaps I'll get some better portraits later.

And lastly...everyone needs a nap.

Including me.

Happy Flowers

2009-11-11T00:29:00.003-07:00

The very talented Pam from the local flower shop, Flower Happy, and I have been working on getting her portfolio together. Talented and uber-busy, it seems we've just been spinning the wheels getting this book together.

But, at last, there is something to show for all the hard work. To be honest, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Pam is an extremely gifted florist. She turns everything she touches into gold.

Literally, there's gold dust on some of these beauties.

If you are in Hamilton, and in need of some serious floral therapy...call Pam, 406.363.4318.

Seriously, she's awesome.

My Baby Sister is all grown up

2009-11-07T21:23:00.003-07:00

I posted on my family blog, so I thought I might share a few while I'm at it.

The main reason for hitting San Diego this fall was my sister's Bridal Shower.

Doing things a little differently, left this our only way to celebrate her marriage.

The girls in my family...

I know I look a bit serious, but I gotta admit, by this point I was pretty pooped.

And a few of just my sister, she looks so grown up these days. And the bangs were a great idea.

Here's one for good measure...

Congrats, my dearest little Sister! We are so excited for you.

What starts small...

2009-10-29T23:32:00.004-06:00

Usually ends up big.

It's pretty common, the "we've never had family pictures" bit. I myself fall into the category occasionally.

This last trip to Kansas City we got to meet up with some cousins. Not only did we kill the session, we had some great food afterwards. Yup, another Diner, Drive-In, and Dive.
If you don't know my obsession with the show and eating at the places when we travel, just ask and brace yourself.

This particular place was pleasantly clean and had, of all the things in the world, root beer cake. Light and fluffy like Grandma used to make.

I digress, we had portraits first. Even though it was chilly, it was relatively quick.

Oh, and did I mention we rocked it?

Pure En-er-gy!

Broken record moment here. But really, when I say you should have picture of the two of you, this is what I'm talking about. These two were so together you could almost hear them buzz with energy...

I've got to fit it in somewhere, but she's the most talented beader.
Is that what you call it?
She tried to be modest and not let on, but seriously, she and her sister make some amazing things.

And this last one is my favorite, favorite, favorite.

I want it on my wall.

Mmm mhhmmm.

2009-10-27T23:57:00.003-06:00

You may recognize this family.
We go way back to last fall.

The only difference is this time they've got a new addition.

"What!?!"

Not that guy. As cute as he was yelling "what!" at the top of his lungs to hear the echo.

The little one, on the right.

Oh, these children are awesome.

We happened to have grandparents too.
I'm a firm believer in couples of any age, having great portraits of themselves.

What fun folks. It was a split shoot, in that we did some in the morning and some in the afternoon after the kids got out of school.

There are so many to get through, this is only part 1 blog post.

Sorry Kiera. I'm terrible. I adore them all.

And....
how you know brother is done for the morning.
No amount of lollipops or fresh-makers are going to make this guy happy.
He was in a great mood after nap time.

She was just in a great mood.

I've got lots coming.
Now that I'm back in town and settling back into the edit, eat, sleep, kids, edit cycle; all is well.

As much fun as my little va-cay was, it's good to be back in my home with my kids watching snow drift around outside.

Mitchell-in Man

2009-10-22T17:07:00.004-06:00

Isn't he fun?

I got to spend a whole week with this chubby guy. We decided all he does is eat, sleep, and smile.

How great is that?

Can't believe it took me this long to post these.... a little older brother love.

And my very favorite of older brothers.

"That Brick Wall"

2009-10-17T00:36:00.001-06:00

"That brick wall looks pretty cool".

Yes it does.

Underground

2009-10-17T00:35:00.001-06:00

There's just enough time for a sneeky peek. Kiera, this one's for you.

Forty and Fabulous

2009-10-12T22:12:00.005-06:00

I came to Kansas City just after my sister-in-law's birthday. She just turned forty.

"Oh", you say, "you can't broadcast that to the blogging world".

Actually, if I look half as good as this at forty I say flaunt it.

Getting some portraits to celebrate isn't a half bad either. We were driving along downtown and saw some cool patterns and decided to hop out for a quickie.

I don't know which I adore more, her coat or the vintage tile work.

Happy Birthday Cheryl, and THANK YOU for everything.

You rock!

Homecoming

2009-10-12T22:03:00.004-06:00

Can you believe I've been in Kansas City for four days? Time flies when you're having fun.

I've had a fantastic time here, and have taken some great portraits. These are near a dear to my heart as they are my niece and her friends homecoming pictures.

The school they go to is an old farm.

Well, we found some of the actual "old farm", i.e. fence and barn, in a field. So on a freezing cold, cloudy evening, we took them out to take pictures.

The tradition is to find a fountain, so it took some convincing to get them into a field of weeds... But I think we all agree it was totally worth it.

My nieces date was quite chivalrous. (It that how it's really spelled?)

Home

2009-10-05T17:35:00.002-06:00

Sometimes opportunities arise that catch you a little off guard.

Some friends have put their home up for sale, as they will be moving back to the family farm in Idaho. Their home used to be their barn, that is, until they made it a home.

I have a clearer vision now of what makes the difference between a house and home. (oh, there is such a difference)

This home was pieced together of second hand EVERYTHING. Right down to the doorknobs that wonderfully don't match. It was almost too much to take in as I was wondering around soaking up what was important to them to go in their book (I could have done hundreds of pages of just details...be still me detail loving heart)

It starts with a road, named for his Mother...

All the woodwork was done by their own hand.

An antique weight.

If there was ever a perfect garden, this is it.

The man who makes it all happen, in his element.

These weren't for the book.
But it sure is impressive, that many squash all in one place.
It's a joke around here that the only time you lock your car is in the parking lot at church during the fall for fear of having it filled with squash while you're inside.

Can you see why now?

Now back to the inside of the house.
I love this kitchen.
Complete with farmhouse sink and a one ton chopping block.

This is the grinder I want for Christmas.

Flower Me Happy

2009-10-01T14:41:00.002-06:00

I've been canning peaches.

Making granola.

Finishing projects. (ordered 6 books today...booya!)

And I couldn't help but post a little sneak peek.

Gorgeous. Just gorgeous.

Today is...

2009-09-29T08:29:00.002-06:00

My son's birthday.

He turns four. Phew, we've made it another year.

One of my favorite traditions are my kids birthday invitations. He loves anything Star Wars, Transformers, or Ratchet and Clank (don't ask). So in light of it all, I made some that were perfectly him...

Really, you're invited if you want to come. I hear there's going to be cotton candy there...

The Cross Over

2009-09-29T07:00:00.003-06:00

Why can't some of my personal posts cross over to this blog?

After all, I'm a little shorter on time than your average single photographer.

While it's true I've got some great projects to post (allllmost there...) I've also got some don't-you-wish-you-lived-here pictures.

This is where we ended up on our hike the other day. Five kids, Three Mom's, Two and a half dogs, two backpacks, and one stinkin' beautiful day and unreal scenery.

The rare shot of me and mine.
And yes, that is the 1/2 dog we are referring too.
It is a he, and he is full grown.

"A...B...C..."

2009-09-25T23:24:00.002-06:00

"As easy as one, two, three"

We've ended up with the Jackson 5 on Rockband. Catchy tune I tell you.

I guess on the new Beatles (oh yea, I'm getting it) you can sing harmony. Wow.

What's even more fun are the results I get when my children have my point and shoot in the back of the car on the way home.

When you just don't want to narrow them down to one...don't. Make a proof sheet and call it a day.

See? Easy as one, two, three.

If you're feeling like a pick me up, make your own.

9 months

2009-09-23T22:34:00.003-06:00

Not THAT nine months.

Nine months old.

I got to do pictures of this guy when he was brand spankin' new.

Look how far he's come.

I'm a little sad how far he's gone, moving off to Alaska and whatnot.

Good thing I've got some images to keep me company.

And finally, you want to know what causes this?

This...

Bitterroot Valley Mini-Sessions

2009-09-22T23:15:00.003-06:00

My busy-ness (*cough* procrastinator-ness) has left me at a loss for planning a mini-session day in my hometown.

Luckily,

I live here

and

so do you!

In celebration of such a fun coincidence I'm offering the Anytime Mini-Session.

It starts at $175, takes 20 minutes or less, and gets you 5-10 medium resolution digital negatives of your fun (or funky) family to choose from. I even perfection edit your very favorite image.

There's no charge if you come to my house or the lovely Daly Mansion (the leaves are UNREAL when they change...) $25 for a travel fee anywhere in the valley ending in Missoula.

This is perfect for those just wanting a family portrait for your Christmas cards. You can order your own, or have some custom designed by yours truly.

Call TODAY. This offer is only good through October 31st. The clock is ticking...

*If you are needing the full out session, I can do that too. Check out my price book to see all the details.

Dear Neglected Blog,

2009-09-22T23:11:00.003-06:00

For the rest of the week, I'm posting once a day.

Really,
I've got that much to catch you up on.

Fun projects.

Upcoming trips.

And the rest of this lovely families portraits...

Tomorrow

2009-09-08T00:13:00.002-06:00

The summer is officially over.

In more ways than one.

Thank goodness laughing and crying look suspiciously like each other.

Now getting ready for the Season...

2009-09-05T14:17:00.002-06:00

I'm offering cards this year if you are interested in custom Christmas cards.

You've got the beautiful portraits, you might want your cards to do them some justice...

front

back

I custom design a card highlighting your images. It will be simple and elegant...no funky backgrounds to distract from YOUR FAMILY here.

Choose from a

4x6 postcard style (shown above):
$75 for the first 25 (includes the design)
$50 for each set of 25 of the same
High quality, linen texture, press printed in full color

5x7 folded:
$125 for the first 25
$75 for each set of 25 of the same
Same high quality, linene texture, press printed in full color

The fox hunt

2009-09-03T22:12:00.002-06:00

Every night in the field we share with our neighbors, there is a fox who torments the neighborhood dogs. My dog Po (whom could easily catch said wiley fox) always seems to pull up short and just bark a bit. Our good friends (and neighbors) dog will catch the fox and simply tumble it to the ground. Good thing Abby has a little more sense in her head.

Yet another long awaited session I am still pouring through. (Eeeek, I get giddy every time)
*Just a little FYI for the general public...sunburns cannot be photoshopped out. Wrinkles and bad camera angles can be "fixed", but sunburns will look like just that...

It is summer after all. Luckily for us sunburns fade quickly and the sun still stays just long enough in case you wanted to go on a fox hunt one night...

Meet Abby the fearless fox wrestler.

And her fearless leaders...

And a final bit of show and tell for today...

"What a short post" you say.

I agree.

More to come soon....

This is where I live...

2009-08-23T20:01:00.003-06:00

And this is how we do it...

I get so many comments on people seeing Montana for the first time through my family blog and how beautiful it is and how much they want to live here.

It is beautiful.

And you really do want to live here.

It's been busy this summer and we have been out enjoying all that is a Montana summer.

Hopefully your summer brings you as much adventure as mine.

Get it together

2009-08-22T12:28:00.004-06:00

It's always fun photographing someone you know. And know well. We've been waiting for what seems like forever to do this shoot. The days have come and gone, and now we get to enjoy the fruits of our labor.

How do you narrow down hundreds of pictures?

You don't. I'm posting the ones that just stood out to me the most.

So many pictures, so little blog.

Every once in a while it does my Mom heart good to get a picture of real life with kids. I had a crazy idea that didn't result in the typical family portrait. But this is what life with kids is 90% of the time...

I might just be a little too fond of this next one...

Don't go thinking I'm leaving the kids out. But all parents out there, without fail my favorites of a family portrait session are a little Mom and Dad ALONE time.

My husband wants to frame this and hang it on our own wall.
Seriously. It's his favorite.

To one of my good friends here in Hamilton, you guys totally rocked it out.
I can't wait for you to see the rest.

"Rise and Shout"

2009-07-31T23:19:00.002-06:00

You may not be aware. But we are BYU fans. The post title is the first three words of the fight song.

I, unfortunately, fail my Alma Matter in how the rest of it goes, but my niece probably will not. She has beat the odds and will attending BYU in the fall. Multi-talented and kind of a hoot to hang out with, she might need a stick to fight off the boys (said stick kindly being provided by my husband...)

She packs up and moves closer to our neck of the woods (yay!) and leaves behind the most photographically inspiring Kansas City (boo!)

We couldn't let her leave without a downtown hurrah, right?

Hurrah!

Peachy

2009-07-24T17:40:00.004-06:00

There are few words that can describe Helen and Shane.

Awesome about sums it up.

I was in their lives for little more than eight hours, and was left wanting more. It was fast, furious, and a gorgeous wedding.

To be honest, it was a bugger weeding out pictures. There's so many I love that just radiate the coolest couple ever. But, it has to be done. Posts can't be infinite right?

So without further ado...

Helen and Shane, getting hitched.

Va va va voom!

My absolute favorite of the day...

And the token photographer shot.
How else would you know I was there?

Summer update...

2009-07-21T22:36:00.004-06:00

I'm back from Girl's Camp.

It rocked.

We were eaten alive by mosquitoes.

BUT,

...we skipped rocks (and all those other things you do at camp).

The itching has worn off, but the great times should "linger longer".

I also thought it would be fun to share what happens in our house when it's hot and water is allowed wherever and whenever the kids want.

I get my windows done and little one learns the joy of squirting water in his own face.

I believe I've got some wedding pictures coming up...stay tuned ;)

Camping

2009-07-13T21:37:00.003-06:00

That's where I'm headed.

Into the wilderness for four days with a hundred or so teenage girls.

I've got a tub load of nail polish and am ready to rock.

See you later.

Wonderful

2009-07-12T00:43:00.003-06:00

Meet Shane and Helen. Some of the most wonderful people I've had the pleasure of photographing. They welcomed me (and my camera) into their most special day without a moments hesitation.

I've got stories and a few hundred other images to get up...

but for now...I tease.

And I love Helen

who did not run for the hills (in her gorgeous white gown)

when we pulled up here...

...for portraits.

Oh yes, there is much more to come.

Apple-bottom Jeans

2009-07-03T22:27:00.002-06:00

Is Apple-bottom supposed to be two words or one?

When in doubt, hyphenate.

I've been dying to get to these images for a few weeks now.

This is my niece who spent 18 hours in the car (in one day!) with me and my children driving back from Kansas City. The least I could do is some portraits when we got back to the beautiful valley we call home. (If any of you are still confused as to where I live, watch A River Runs Through It. That's home.)

We had a great trip, with grand adventures. How many girls can say they spent their sweet sixteen in a mini-party-van driving all day?

Not many I tell you. And they would be jealous if they only knew...

Happy Sweet Sixteen Hunter, you are absolutely beautiful.

A great perk of having Hunter here was her ability to get the pack of boy cousins that live here together for pictures.

Have I mentioned there are LOTS of cousins between our families?

And yes, good looking just comes with the genes.

Part Deux

2009-07-03T22:23:00.002-06:00

I always make good on my promises.

I've got more pictures.

Who am I kidding though, really, I've ALWAYS got more pictures.

Meet sweet Alice again. When you can't get enough, post twice.

And the final shot of the day...

BINGO!

Go to bed

2009-06-30T21:24:00.002-06:00

It's a sad but true fact that I am toast tonight.

You come here for pictures, and you don't need to hear my *ah hem* case for how I have more to do than daylight hours. That's saying a lot, because Montana has all of 5 hours of dark at the moment.

The blog has fallen to the wayside of client orders, taking pictures, a trip to Florida for an ahhh-mazing wedding, getting ready for a camp, cleaning house, and oh, taking care of the kiddos. Really though, if you just toss some food and water in front of the TV you don't even have to watch them...OK, OK...I kid I kid.

Enough.

Back to the pictures.

My sister is getting married in November. I'm so excited. We got to hit their favorite stomping ground and do pictures, downtown, my way.

These aren't all of them (because I've promised I'll get to bed a decent hour) but some of my favorites nevertheless.

Noah, you know I love you.
This one is really one of my favorites.

More to come.
Soon.

"Oooh, baby I love your way."

2009-06-30T21:20:00.004-06:00

The 90's station gets me every time.

So do the wee ones.

Especially when they're cousins; and I gotta admit. There are a lot of cousins between my husband and I.

We got to stop by on our grand adventure across the middle of the country and meet/take pictures of this one. I've got a few more in my back pocket, but as for now, these will have to do.

See the grid...

2009-06-14T23:21:00.002-06:00

I'm totally falling off it.

Don't worry, it's just a couple of days and then I'll be back and rip roarin' and ready to rock some more images.

Until then...

Busy Bee

2009-06-13T21:19:00.004-06:00

I've have more than a few people tell me I'm busy lately.

Um, yes. Thank You.

Nothing I haven't brought upon myself And nothing that can chase away that stifled desire to close my eyes and nap every warm summer afternoon.

You don't know heaven until you've experienced Montana summers. They're perfect for afternoon napping.

Back to the busy.

I like to let my blog world know I'm a person/Mom/wife too. And to say in most circles that photography is not the center of my universe is heresy, but it isn't.

It is a huge part and very important to me. But there a lots of other parts that make up my whole.

Take for instance the newest teeny tiny part.

Meet Po.
My husband insists he isn't a real dog.
I insist he's perfect for us.
And travel sized to boot.

He likes the mustard...

And my youngest insists on dumping spoonfuls of milk and lucky charms. Do you see the X?

My daughter is old enough to catch on that I'm a photographer and do "sessions" with other people.

She and her bear dressed the same and wanted a "session". Could I really say no?

She also wanted some pictures of her and her cousin.
(there might be a pattern forming here)

A picnic on a dirt hill in Montana.

So you see, I'm busy.
But it's the best kind of busy there is.

*(photoshop geeks...all these were edited in Lightroom, and Lightroom alone...I heart Lightroom)

Kiera, Kiera, Kiera

2009-06-11T22:13:00.002-06:00

I know they look familiar.
I took their family pictures last fall.
We're friends now.
They babysat my children for over 10 hours.
With three kids, that's like 30 hours really.
The least I could do is get Mom and daughter pictures.
THANK YOU!

Under the pier

2009-06-11T22:03:00.002-06:00

I guess you're not supposed to go under there.

You're not allowed to take pictures with "big" cameras at the carousel either
(yes, I got in trouble on a shoot...)

What we did do that didn't get us in trouble was get some great shots.

It was great getting to know your family.
I'm so grateful for your husband/father and his service to our country and the sacrifice you make while he's away.

****If you are current military, let me know.
I've got my own way of saying thanks.

To be one again...

2009-06-11T21:55:00.002-06:00

This is what I think being one feels like. It kind of makes me want to be tossed in the air too...

Mom is a friend of mine who called me up after browsing my website. She said I would be the "perfect photographer" for her little girl...meaning that sitting still was totally out of the question. Thank goodness.

We hopped into the field next to my house for the session. I went well, don't you think?

Mom also happens to be a uber-talented writer, so I thought she should have something to publish with her stories.

Stunning. (I kept wanting to touch her hair...it look like it came out of a movie...)

We are family

2009-06-11T09:02:00.003-06:00

There's nothing like getting a good family generational shot.
Families are fun.
Really.
This family rocked.
My absolute favorites from the day were the small moments in between the big family shots.
Enjoy.

I had to get the shot of our "babysitter" while taking the above.

Mayhem and hair pulling.

So fun to get to know this wonderful family. You guys are still making me smile.
Enjoy!

Life's a beach

2009-06-11T08:47:00.003-06:00

Fresh Ocean air, crashing waves, and a little bit of sunshine. This is a belated post from our San Diego foray. It was our first day there. We had a motorhome at the beach. I've come to the conclusion there is no other way to do it. Most clients aren't so lucky that I bring a bathroom, kitchen and bed with me.

But these aren't just ordinary clients. Stay with me here....She is a cousin of my cousin on his Dad's side. He is my cousin by his Mom's side. She (the girl in the picture) has a cousin (on her Mom's side...so not my cousin's actual cousin) who married my husband's sister.
Chew on that for a bit.

I love good back stories and small towns make for good stuff.
Don't worry though, her husband also happens to be from Tahiti.
The beach lights him up a little bit.

There's no place like home...

2009-06-03T22:41:00.004-06:00

My niece returns to Kansas (as in the city...) tomorrow.
We'll miss her a bit.
Ok,
maybe a lot.

Be still my heart

2009-06-03T01:08:00.004-06:00

I don't know what it is about the air in Kansas City (could it be the humidity?), but it makes for killer family portraits. Narrowing down pictures to post really hurts for the next couple of sessions.

These were taken in Liberty, Missouri. My newest favorite place to stomp some photographic ground.

Mom bling-ed her shoes.
AWESOME.

Attention all married-with-children folks out there:
You want pictures together.
Just the two of you.
Without your children.
Trust me, it's worth it.

Thank You Grossman family, you guys are pretty dang fun to work with.

Enjoy!

Ack, I'm back.

2009-06-01T00:03:00.004-06:00

Three children and I.

4000 miles

Two weeks.

Over fifty hours in the car.

10 states.

Thousands of pictures.

And we've arrived home.

I feel a bit like this...

Really though, I'll be fine. As will those whom are waiting patiently for their pictures (which are ah hem, BEAUTIFUL...all of them....)

I'm kicking it off with a big Congrats to the Grad.

Time flies when you're having fun.

2009-05-16T23:22:00.003-06:00

You know, a week isn't nearly enough time to fit in everything I had to get done this month. Yup, I'm out of town three of the four weeks of may.

Perhaps I'll post from our next destination, but don't count on it. Until, then, I'll give you a few of my faves from San Diego.

And those in live in San Diego, you will never guess where this is...it's my secret.

Those in LA should know where this is.

There are more where these came from. And plenty more when I get back.

I'm off, wish me luck!

Facebookers and Bloggers, listen up!

2009-05-13T15:47:00.001-06:00

From our family...

2009-05-12T08:50:00.003-06:00

Uncle Noah (coming in November) and my son love each other.

Maybe it's because they are both (freakishly) so much like my husband...
Who knows.
Whatever it is, I got it on film.

In Otto's world, love is a fist to the eye.

What is this?

2009-05-11T23:21:00.001-06:00

The Perfect S'more maker.

I'm an expert on the subject, and this seemingly useless gadget really does make the perfect s'more.

Happy Mothers

2009-05-10T19:28:00.003-06:00

-Day.
After all, it is a day for Mom's to be Happy right?
If you are a Mom, chances are you are pretty happy about it.

We all know there are days.
There are tears.
There are sticky fingers.
And life still has to be cleaned up after.
Which would not happen, were it not for Moms.

I adore portraits of Mothers,
whether they are by themselves (it's true, sometimes it happens)
or in the act of being a Mom.

It is beautiful, rare, and priceless.
It is why I take pictures to begin with.
Selfish, but true.

Here's to Mother's out there.

...And my Mother.
Thanks Mom.

Guess where we've been?

2009-05-07T07:55:00.002-06:00

This is a first. I'm about to post a picture of a commode on here. Why? Well it's like a wicker chair, but it's a toilet.

A little random.

Mr. Disney, you've got a sense of humor.

*just for the record, as a Mom who cleans her own bathrooms, the thought of cleaning that wicker/basket stuff on a toilet makes my cringe. You could never get it out. And this is a (semi) public restroom....*cringe*

*pps-for photoshop nerds, I did nada to either one of these but adjust the white balance and convert from raw. Taken with ISO 1600. Not bad eh?

Swing

2009-04-25T22:19:00.001-06:00

We've been out enjoying the sunshine lately.
Sorry there hasn't been much else to post.
BUT,
soon enough,
I'll share a lot more.

Hey So Cal...

2009-04-18T23:42:00.002-06:00

Thanks to Allegiant Air, we are headed for a last minute whirlwind trip full of aquariums, Cinderella's castle, and Pappa's park.

I'm bringing my camera too.

I've got a few appointments left, so e-mail if you're game.

Spring has sprung

2009-04-14T00:41:00.002-06:00

And on the day I was to weed the garden (today) it promptly hid.

I'll sip my hot chocolate and wait for the sun to come out again, thank you.

How could I not...

2009-04-10T15:48:00.001-06:00

My personal favorite of the day.

The in-between bits

2009-04-09T22:05:00.003-06:00

When you get little kids together for pictures, the whole thing takes on a life of it's own.

It had snowed in the morning.

Then got warm enough to walk these cute ones outside.

Then the wind blew in something cold and nasty.

Amongst the chaos, the runny noses, the cold, and the nasty....there were rays of light. The in-between-bits I like to call them. I love photographing children because they are inherently bright. Whatever storms may blow in they are gone just as fast leaving behind the glow I get to find with my camera.

Not all pictures are smiley.
I love pictures I can feel, whether it's a huge smile or something else all together.
This one falls under the "something else all together" category.

Never doubt me as I chase you out the door clicking away at the of the a shoot.
The last picture is ALWAYS a winner, even if it is through the back window of the car.

Fabulous five.

2009-04-05T00:18:00.002-06:00

You rarely see pictures of five kids, under five, looking at the camera and happily smiling.

You won't see it here either.

But, I got five kids under five in the same frame.

Each showing off a bit of themselves.

Take that all you cheesy-smilers.

*more to come soon. I've got adventures behind this one...

Why I love candid.

2009-03-31T21:34:00.003-06:00

I handed my Mom the camera.

She held the shutter button down a little too long.

I love this image of my cousin and I, taken after a long day of chasing 20 kids around for my little one's birthday party.

The best part is we both have halos.

Sweet.

Blueberry

2009-03-20T07:11:00.003-06:00

There's something about baby rolls that just invite you to get close. Capture every nook and cranny.

This is Blueberry. (Not her real name...just what everyone calls her)

She's positively delicious.

It's no secret...

2009-02-23T21:57:00.001-07:00

I love me a newborn.

Wait, strike that. I love me somebody elses newborn.
(I'm in that stage where people are waiting for me to get pregnant again...uh huh)

So naturally, there are some wee ones coming soon (Once again, not mine...their's).

C'est Moi

2009-02-23T09:13:00.002-07:00

All photographers have it. Or rather,
don't have it.

Pictures of themselves.

Alone.

Not making a funny face and pointing the camera at themselves
(or in the mirror holding their camera...the O.G. of self portraits)

Seeing that spring is beginning to get to sprunging, I had my dear husband point the camera my way. You gotta know what I look like right?

I am a narcissist of the worst variety. No picture of me is nearly as great as the one I see in my head. I prefer to think I look like the classically-tall-greek-goddess version of myself rather than the smile-til-your-eyes-shut-chicklet-teeth version.

So, here I am, as I am.

14 Days Later

2009-02-16T22:53:00.002-07:00

I don't suppose that I am allowed to be this sick for this long.

My children unfortunately still are, well, getting to be again. The fever has hit the youngest two today (it started with me last week, worked down my husband and daughter)

Luckily this drooling man gets a free ticket to stay home from school and watch the Star Wars trilogy.

Again.

Which means I am still on nurse duty and get to watch the Stars Wars trilogy.

Again.

Which of course means my camera will stay on the shelf a while longer.

Again.

Stay with me in patience, there are things (not of the sick variety) to come.

Hidden treasures

2009-02-02T20:22:00.002-07:00

I've been cleaning house computer-wise and found some fun ones. Correct me if I'm wrong, I don't think I posted them before, but they sure turned out nice.

And for the record, I am adoring lightroom to turn things black and white. That's how I did the above gems.

I also happened to *gasp* take pictures of my own children. We're still coming out of our "sick" phase of this winter, but I should be hearing out of my left ear any day now. (This also bodes well for the sessions that were so rudely delayed.)

This is one of his trademark moves. Someday, the ladies will appreciate it.

I never realized their eyes are verging on the same color. Also for the record, that is a maple syrup mustache

Never leave a mug of maple syrup in front of a kid who loves chocolate milk.

I'm just sayin.

To Aunt Sparklie...

2009-01-31T20:13:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday!

Great-full

2009-01-28T15:51:00.002-07:00

I was "commisioned" to take portraits of my husband's grandparents while we were out of town (well, in town for them) We came in straight off the road toting Wendy's for lunch. My boys were appallingly(sp?) rambunctious that day. Wrestling their Great Grandpa like he was not as fragile as their Mother worried he would be.

He is in his nineties after all. (Which particular ninety was up for debate a couple of times). Usually taking pictures for me is the highlight...this time, I would have to say it was a little more. My children will remember their great grandparents. They will have pictures not just of them together, but of them loving each other. That is truly great.

At first you might think be rude, her eyes being closed and all, but after careful review of all pictures I realized that is how she laughs. Eyes closed. Then it isn't rude, it's special.

This probably won't be the portrait everyone else in the family gets (those are my rag-a-muffins running rampant), but it's my favorite of the day.

Uncle

2009-01-23T13:02:00.002-07:00

There's times when you realize you just gotta take some time off. My five year old may have done all the painting, but the um, lack of spelling, was yours truly.

Nevermind I can't even cross my stinkin' T's.

In light of all that. Everything can wait until Monday. When I can, ahem, think straight.

Apologies.

2009-01-21T20:40:00.002-07:00

I've got some good stuff coming up. I really do.

I've got three children with a killer cold AND pink eye.

I've also got whatever they've got.

And

A rescheduled fifth birthday party to pull off.

So, I'm sorry. When I'm back on my feet, there are some exciting things that will be finished when I can function.

*Like my Kansas City trip...look for it, it's so cool it's got it's own blog

AND

*A photo class for my beloved Hamilton.

Please don't give up on me yet. (I'd post pictures, but trust me, it is UGLY around here.)

Happy Day

2009-01-18T21:47:00.002-07:00

Birth Day.

It's been a handful (literally) of years and we are beyond blessed because of our girl.

Oh,

And we're back. But first, I need some sleep.

UTAH-THIS WEEKEND (16th-18th)

2009-01-12T09:04:00.004-07:00

We're making a run for it this weekend (I'm available Friday or Saturday ONLY for clients, first come first serve).

If you like to fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants,

and happen to need some great portraits,

need an hour of digital camera enlightenment

(for those with a Christmas camera you are afraid to turn on it's got so many buttons, you know who you are)

give me a call.

406.546.5457

Montana you make me smile.

2009-01-10T20:02:00.001-07:00

I wish

2009-01-10T19:31:00.002-07:00

That my sons hair will stay curly.

And...

...that he would let me pick out weather appropriate clothing that doesn't clash.

Until then,

my littlest one will just have to do.

Observation

2009-01-09T21:36:00.005-07:00

Newborns. They tend to be sleepy puddles of wrinkles, urps, and yawns.

Then along comes this little one.

Brand spankin' new and already looking right at you. These are not dissinterested eyes. If the two of us were siblings in the backseat of a car I would probably be whining "Mooom...she's looking at me again."

Well,

because she is.

A little pop

2009-01-08T22:01:00.002-07:00

I took it as a sign that I needed to attend to things as a Mom when my four (soon to be five) year old daughter was sitting at the table making invitations for her upcoming birthday party I have yet to plan. I'm still cleaning up the holiday rubble...

It's exciting to turn five.

It's also exciting to come up with something for her (well, mine...she already made her) invites.

Kind of a tradition of mine.

Needless to say, I can't invite everyone, but you can catch a sneek peek of what the cool people on my soon-to-be-five-year-old's list are getting in the next week.

Up and Coming

2009-01-03T20:53:00.003-07:00

Every once in a while you get a chance to do things a little differently. This time, I took a fresh off the plane California girl out in the snow, on a pretty stinkin' cold day, wearing something more suitable for the boardwalk then the back roads of Montana, and got some amazing shots to use for her portfolio. Anything she'll be asked to do modeling-wise will seem like cake. A while back I took some beautiful images of her equally gorgeous Mom. Take a good look, I'm sure this won't be that last we see of this stunner...

I really could have posted nearly all 100 images, but I gotta keep on my toes with editing down. We ended up in a beautiful piece of property (that happens to be for sale, you'd better buy it before I do) with some great windows and claw foot tub. It was a good break from the cold, and wasn't half bad for pictures either.

Ten Years.

2009-01-03T20:41:00.002-07:00

It's amazing how time flies. This family is dear to my heart. She was my roomate in college, he got us kicked out of more movie theaters than I can count. They have procreated and will (like most of us) get what they deserve :) Seriously though, their kids are the best of two of the best people I've had the pleasure of getting into lots of trouble with.

Need I even have to say that this was a good time?

It's here...

2009-01-01T20:17:00.002-07:00

The new blog is up and running for keeps. I've got some fun stuff I've been working on over my
"break", because who are we kidding, I don't get breaks. But what little quiet-ness on the blog happened the last couple of weeks is over. It's a new year, with new stuff. I'l stoked and ready to start this fire...

Four in a tree...

2008-12-16T19:15:00.001-07:00

Two turtle doves...

2008-12-15T22:21:00.001-07:00

Well, not exactly.

See for yourself...

And a star for my Christmas Tree

2008-12-13T20:07:00.000-07:00

We are truly blesssed as a family. It's been an incredible year. I thought I might have a little fun with Christmas. Pretend I left this on your porch with some warm cookies, rang the doorbell, and ran. Merry Christmas!

Joy to the World

2008-12-05T21:03:00.001-07:00

Tis' the season for newborns.

Squeeze

2008-12-04T01:07:00.001-07:00

It seems like all you want to do is love em' and squeeze em. Four weeks. Thats all he's been around in this world...Four weeks. There's a lot of love for this little guy. And in the spirit of thanksgiving, I'm giving an official THANK YOU to Dad and Mom. I'm grateful for what you are doing. Wishing you all the best for the future. Kids are totally worth it.

My absolute favorite.

(This is Grandma by the way...promise.)

Ama-za-zing

2008-10-07T21:32:00.001-06:00

Good things come to those who wait. Keira and your cute family, you inspired such fun things. Lots of giggles and such love and devotion. There are some who are so blessed in this life. Your pictures could barely contain the joy.

Yup, thats the dumpster.

A wise man said to have a family portrait hanging in your house so your children and their children will always see it and never forget of what they are a part. Amen to that.

Serious fun

2008-10-06T23:01:00.001-06:00

It really is the best being able to meet new families. How often do you get the whole picture (pun intended) of someone right off the bat? Here's a family who was up for anything, and laughed and smiled like there was no tomorrow. Adorable girls. We even found a fountain to cool our photo-worn toes. How great a day was that?

My new favorite series.

Um, my most favorite.