Italy with my Girlfriends | Personal

Almost two years ago I had the awesome pleasure of flying to Italy with two of my besties , Jo Clark and Bre Thurston, for 10 days of adventure (and to assist my girl Bre Thurston shoot an amazing wedding in Rome). Our trip flew by. We laughed until we cried, laughed again, and laughed some more. Our first day was a long day of travel. We flew from SFO to Rome. Then we hopped on a train and headed south to Naples. Once in Naples we cruised in a ferry to Capri. After 20 hours of planes and trains and ferries we finally arrived at the cutest hotel overlooking the harbor. Our tired selves were rewarded with a delicious meal with a view of the ocean. Pure bliss.

We spent two glorious days frolicking around Capri, swimming, hiking, and eating at the best restarants on the island. After Capri we ended up in Sorrento for two more days on the Amalfi Coast. We hired the nicest man to drive us on the Amalfi Coast, Francesco. He drove us into all of the towns and recommended a spot for lunch. Francesco told us all about the art of pizza making, lemon trees, how to spot a fine mozzarella. He chatted about family and his kids. He made our trip wonderful. The next day he drove us out to Pompei before taking us to the train station to head back to Rome.

Once in Rome we touristed around, checking out all the sights. The day of the wedding was amazing and it was quite the experience. You can check out all of the photos here on Bre’s website! Our last day in Rome was sad. How could 10 days go by so quickly? It has been a couple of years and I still have such fond memories of this trip. I love these girls and I love our friendship.

January 30, 2018January 30, 2018

Sacramento Maternity Photography | Queena + Tyler

Queena e-mailed me about a maternity session last year. She let me know I took engagement photos for her co-worker, Andrea, and it is always awesome to meet new families through my past couples. I always get excited about photographing growing families, and this was no exception. Queena and Tyler are both doctors here in Sacramento. We chatted about their maternity leave, world travels, their plans for their new baby. It never surprises me how humans can connect on so many levels, even when we first meet. I can say, with truth, I really enjoy meeting and getting to know people. I feel happiness and anticipation for them to meet their new baby.

The way Tyler and Queena get along is so very sweet. Their relationship is natural and kind and we had a blast wandering the gardens near Land Park. We lucked out with some really pretty sunlight and warm weather, even though it was late fall. Tyler is from back east, and they sported some jerseys to show their new baby boy how much he has to love the family team.

We met in Land Park for their session. Sacramento offers such beautiful spots for photographs, and shooting maternity photos here was perfect. The gardens have the best little spots to tuck couples away and get some lovely, intimate images. The moments were strong here, mainly because these two really love each other and are truly excited for their baby. I know the feeling of waiting not-so patiently for a baby to arrive. I know you’ll be awesome parents. Congrats to you two!!

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January 23, 2018January 23, 2018

Day in the Life Folsom Family | Liz + Joe + Addie

These people are just the best. I first met Joe and Liz way back when for their engagement and wedding. They started their family soon after. I got the chance to meet their daughter when she was still a budding little bear in her mama’s tummy. Liz wanted to do something different for their family holiday photos. She decided a “real life” session, baking cookies (which they brought to a holiday party that afternoon), playing, and snuggling, would be perfect. I met up with them in the morning and hung out for a few hours. It was pure joy watching them laugh and enjoy each other’s company.

I love how easily Liz and Joe love each other. They are so fond of the other and it shows. Little Addie is a spit-fire. Which is really no surprise considering her mother. It was hard to pull myself away and stop shooting. There is something so raw and full of life in a “day in the life” session at home. This little girl was absolutely herself. No holds barred. I know I have mentioned this before, but it is so easy to be home for your family session. You do not need a model-home perfect house. You only need YOUR home. Everything in your space has meaning to you. Documenting one day of semi chaos is so much more personal than any other session could be. By letting go of the idea of false perfection you allow the most intimate, sweet, and perfectly real moments to happen. All while surrounded with the people that matter most.

Thank you to Liz and Joe for having me back to photograph their family again and again. I absolutely love seeing families grow, and it is always a blast hanging with these two!! It is all Pitbull singing, dancing, good times and I adore you all!!

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