A Day at the Beach

This gorgeous family originally scheduled their session for San Francisco, but when car troubles created a change of plans,

I had no problem meeting them in Pismo Beach instead.

It ended up being the perfect place for a father to teach his son the proper skipping rock technique.

Or for the mischievous middle child to pose for the camera.  She loved the lens and it showed! Or for the older sister to find a few moments to contemplate the finer things in life, and enjoy the quiet of the beach. 
I had such fun visiting with this amazing family, I'm so glad they were able to smile despite the change of plans

Wild Country

“…perhaps our grandsons, having never seen a wild river, will never miss the chance to set a canoe in singing waters... glad I shall never be young without wild country to be young in.” 

~ Aldo Leopold               

Photo shoots with boys are so much fun! Perhaps it's because we often explore the "wild country".
These boys were wonderful despite the fact the heat index was 115 degrees on the day of their session.
It was hot and miserable and if the water wasn't so murky (and warm) they probably would have been in it.

I loved that they were pretty much game for anything.
Especially when I told them one of them would win the "Top Model" prize if they did a good job.
(Any guesses on who won?)

When I asked them to look like loving brothers, they nailed that too. Thanks boys for a great day, Iowa humidity and all.

Family Fun

The other day I had the opportunity to work with the sweetest family!

We met at a local rose garden, as the background was perfect for the colorful outfits and the family's gorgeous smiles.
I just had to share this sneak peak of a few of their pictures.

I adore the shot below.  It just radiates love and such an amazing family bond! They were so photogenic I almost had to pinch myself to see if I was dreaming!

We timed our session perfectly and as the sun set, the girls rushed up to the top of a nearby hill as if on cue.
I loved how their silhouettes highlighted their unique personalities!
I was surprised to learn this was their very first family portrait session!

They were such fun to work with and so great about taking minimal directions that they looked and acted like pros!