Gen & Josh: Black Hills Engagement Photography

Gen and Josh met at a concert, a little over a year ago. "Metal", she says with a grin.  Josh laughs. It's clear the genre isn't her favorite. Although the concert wasn't Gen's cup of tea, it turns out Josh was. 

I photographed Gen and Josh in Haysprings, Nebraska this weekend. Our original plan was to meet early in the morning at Ft. Robinson, but decided against that when we learned the temperature was supposed to be thirty-five degrees. I was so glad they were willing to wait until a little later in the day, and not travel as far.  Downtown turned out to be the perfect location.

Josh couldn't help but make Gen laugh out loud, and in return, Gen made Josh feel confident and happy.  He brought his guitar (but played no heavy metal), and she brought her sense of adventure. Their smiles were constant, wide, and best of all — genuine. 

And about that first concert? I think it's safe to say that Gen is happy she went.

Gen and Josh, thank you so much for asking me to do your photos! Can't wait for your wedding this August. I hope you enjoy my favorites.

Sara & Nick: Black Hills Wedding Photography

"I feel beautiful", was the first thing she said to me. 

Sara pulled up to her Sylvan Lake cabin with her best friends, all looking excited, gorgeous and ready for a wedding.  She showed me her flowers, and her dress, and the shoes that dictated all other aspects of the day. She had visitors in and out, each leaving with the same conclusion—she looked amazing. The room was electric. Busy. Alive. Every time his name passed her lips, they broke into a smile. 

Down by the water, Nick confidently greeted guests as they arrived for the outdoor ceremony. His grandmother and great-grandmother were in the front row, taking in the day. His mother was so happy and so proud. Nick shook hands with his buddies and laughed at the antics of his groomsmen. He told me he felt good — that he was ready. 

Nick was calm when the ceremony started, and remained so as each of their friends made their way down the aisle. And then, there she was. His bride on the arm of her father, walking toward him. His face broke into a smile, and as she came closer, the smile turned to tears. 

It was obvious why Sara felt beautiful. The dress, the shoes, the hair — they were only part of the story. The man waiting at the end of the aisle, the one who couldn't take his eyes off her or believe how lucky he was to be standing next to her, is the real reason she felt the way she did. To him she is the most beautiful girl in world, and she feels it.

Nick and Sara, thank you so much for letting me be a part of your day.  I hope you enjoy my favorites.

To My Mom

We're so lucky to have you, and love you so much. Thanks for all that you do.

Happy Mother's Day.

This is 1962 (not sure why it says Feb '71). My mom was 4. I love this picture of my grandparents.

Is she not the most beautiful person you've ever seen?

Try not to ask yourself why my own mother would give me this haircut. 

Danielle, Zane, & Brandon: Black Hills Portrait Photographer

Danielle called awhile ago to talk about photos, and after rescheduling twice due to rain and a high fever, we finally made it happen last week.  I don't think she could have chosen a more beautiful day or location. Brandon is graduating high school in a few short weeks, and will then be joining the military. Danielle wanted to have a group picture taken before he left, and it didn't take long for me to see why.

Brandon and Zane are brothers, though not in a typical way. They tease each other, and laugh together, and one looks up to the other, just like brothers do. Three year old Zane doesn't remember Brandon ever not being there, so to him, the line between family and family friends is blurred. 

Brandon crossed the creek, and Zane followed...at least until he called Brandon over for help. Brandon sat bent over with his arms on his knees, and Zane thought it best that he do the same (this was so funny — see pictures #6  and #7). In the group shots, where I had Zane sit closest to his mom, Brandon was never so far away that Zane couldn't reach around his neck, as if to let me know they were best buddies. Although the three of them are not technically related, there is an apparent sense of family between them—and to Danielle that's a perfect reason for portraits. 

Danielle, thank you so much for inviting me to take these photographs. I had such a great time hanging out with you and the boys. I hope you enjoy my favorites.

A Potted Peony

This poor thing is from my mom's flower garden, and I'm hoping I can get it to grow into my favorite flowers.  I already have my hopes up, even though the transplant didn't go so well. Things crumbled in way that led me to believe something was wrong, and I'm a touch nervous.

Every summer my Grandma Patty grew the most beautiful garden, so I have to believe that it could be genetic. Right?