Shelby & Cassidy

"I asked my grandma to pray for me, and when my grandma says a prayer, it always gets answered."

There is something especially joyful about an outdoor wedding, but it doesn't come without risk. As I was leaving my apartment for Copper Canyon Lodge on Saturday, the weather called for severe thunderstorms. They were to last until 9:00 pm. Not so fantastic for an outdoor wedding at 7:00.

Enter prayer. The rain stopped. The birds sang. The sun shone. And Shelby and Cassidy said their vows in one of the most beautiful settings I've been able to photograph (if you're planning a wedding, check it out here).  My favorite photos came together after the ceremony, when the light got all low and golden and romantic. The bride and groom let out a huge sigh of relief. Their many months of planning  had paid off and the party was waiting. Grandma's streak continues.

I wanted to share some of my favorites. Thank you again for letting me be a part of your wedding. You could not have chosen a more perfect day.

Love this.

Did I mention Shelby is stunning? No Photoshop here. Really.

Garrett & Leslie

Leslie and I have been planning this engagement session since April, and at that time were hoping to find a patch of green grass or a tree with a few early leaves. Four canceled sessions and two very rainy months later, we had all the grass a person could ask for, and even some sunshine.

But my luck didn't stop there.

These two were willing to drive (nearly) aimlessly around the countryside and pull over on a second's  notice. They switched locations when the first wasn't quite right. Leslie had no hesitations about laying in tall weeds or on the sidewalk. They weren't scared of poison ivy, or mosquitoes, or the bridge deemed unsafe for the public. Most importantly, they did not laugh at my driving in front of me. And on top of all this, they looked good.

Congratulations on your engagement! I am so looking forward to your wedding in September. For now, here are some favorites from your session.

The Hoffmans

When my good friend from college called to see if I'd be interested in taking family pictures, I was delighted. When she described what they were looking for - outside, relaxed, and at Chadron State Park - I could hardly wait.

There is nothing more pleasant than spending a few hours with a family who genuinely enjoys being together. They told jokes at each others expense. They climbed on logs, played on the swings, and reminisced about family trips to that very spot. Brock frequently "photo-bombed" the shots he wasn't invited to participate in (see picture #2), which somehow, was funny every time. 

They laughed. A lot. And I couldn't help but join in.

Thank you again for thinking of me. It was well worth the drive. 

Ryan & Morgan

Welcome!

I've been thinking about a blog for a long time now, and I'm really excited to show the world what I've been up to.  It has a great year - I married the most hilarious man I know, grew as an artist, and accomplished a lot with my "other" job at Art of the Hills magazine here in Hill City.

Most recently, I had the honor of photographing Morgan and Ryan's wedding at Johnson Siding. It was a beautiful day - the kind where it can't decide if it wants to rain or shine. The church was bright and airy, the groomsmen tall and handsome, and the bridesmaids' blue dresses were stunning. The happy couple was so obviously, just that. After a beautiful ceremony we headed off to the reception, where I believe it was impossible to have a bad time. Everyone danced, and laughed, and ate, and danced some more.

Thank you for letting me be a part of your day. Here are a few of my favorites.