Sorena & Matt - Wedding

There is such a beautiful presence surrounding Matt and Sorena - peaceful, calm, happy. They are a complete joy to photograph. Sorena is stunning and so at ease with the camera - maybe it's because Matt has a strong photography interest and she makes a wonderful subject; maybe it's just representative of who she is as a person. Matt rocked the camera too. They were simply so comfortable together; confident in one another. Ah, it was just beautiful! A photographer's dream...

Sorena and Matt are awesome. They probably have no idea how awesome I think they are. And it's for many reasons. Sorena passionately cares about food - where it food comes from, how the animals were fed and raised, etc. (a woman of my own heart), Matt plays the guitar and sings - we're not talking hokey campfire singalongs either - although I'm sure he could bust those out if he wanted - his voice is i-n-c-r-e-d-i-b-l-e, and both of them recognize the value of being true to themselves and their dreams, and really living instead of letting life pass by. See what I mean? Two very awesome people. One big wedding day. There is no doubt in my mind they'll be enjoying every ounce life has to offer - the big things, the little things, and every experience in-between. Congratulations
Matt and Sorena!

Michaela & Kevin - Married!

The long-awaited, much anticipated day finally arrived - Michaela and Kevin are m-a-r-r-i-e-d! It was apparent throughout the day how special the two are, and how wonderfully designed they are for one another. It was said often by those who loved them - both have generous servant hearts, a great sense of adventure, and a rare genuine kindness that's hard to find. The Mass was incredible - peaceful, moving, so spirit-filled. And the celebration after - full of life, stories, and a lot laughter (and dancing!). Kevin and Michaela - thank you so much for the opportunity to witness the love between you, your family and friends. What a gift!

I loved this moment - Kevin waits for his bride, and Michaela can be seen through the windows about to enter the courtyard.

On the Farm - Children

This weekend took me to one of my favorite places - the sunny, green-grass, wide open country. It was beautiful. And the kids who I got to chase around with my camera while they played in the mud and climbed fences - sooo cute. Oh my gosh, so cute. Thank you so much to the families who allowed me to enjoy the evening with them - your kids are awesome.

Also, I wanted to mention I'm trying a new thing on my photography blog. Maybe it's crazy for a photog blog. Maybe not. Whatever the case, it fits me. No edited photos on the blog. Not that I edit much anyway, but from this post forward (or until I decide it's not a good idea) the posted photos are straight out of camera. If they're not, I'll let you know. And that will pretty much just be for photos that look phenomenal in black and white. To me, true art in photography is capturing it just right when composing the shot. Not that I'm claiming my photos are perfect. No siree. It's just that for me, for now, it's all the real stuff. Sort of like me as a person. Take it or leave it.

And now enough with my philosophies and back to the cutie patooties. Those blue eyes just make me melt!

Miranda & Tyler - Engagement II

During Miranda and Tyler's last engagement session, we ran out of daylight before making it to one last location we had planned. But this wasn't just any location. It was special. The two met in college through track, so naturally the track has a lot of meaning to them, plus, it's just a fun place to take photos. So Friday night (another perfect evening for us in the midst of all this rain!) we goofed off on the track, and took some pictures in between. Thank goodness they're up for anything. Or maybe they think I'm crazy. Hey Tyler, why don't you jump the hurdle while Miranda patiently sits underneath it? But don't get hurt. Your parents would possibly be insanely upset with me if you injured yourself at an engagement session before the wedding.

Miranda & Tyler - Engagement I

I had so much fun with Miranda and Tyler this evening! The weather was absolutely perfect as we explored gardens, alleyways, and stairwells around KC. These two are both so wonderful - beautiful, kind, and super sweet together. Miranda is gorgeous! She always had a smile (although hello fierceness in some of these shots - wow!) and Tyler was laid back ready for whatever idea we had next. Plus, I loved his shoes. Thanks so much for an awesome engagement session. I can't wait for August!

Nick & Pat

Nick and Pat have been in my life about as long as I've been in Kansas City, and what a blessing it was to meet them! The two brothers are hilarious, original, and know more about technology (Apple products in particular) than anyone I know. Even cooler yet, about a year ago they started up a podcast, In Between Sundays, during which they talk about life as Catholic young adults and how to live your faith out 'the other six days of the week'. So last Wednesday the three of us explored the River Market, and while Pat drooled over all the nearby lofts he'd like to someday occupy, we took time for some great shots around the neighorhood. Afterward, in honor of St. Patrick's Day, we chowed down at Blue Nile Cafe, a quaint, cozy eatery specializing in Ethiopian cuisine. Ummm...huh? Well, we didn't partake in green beer chugging this year, but the food was so yummy, I don't think any of us minded.

Flower Girl.

Erica is talented. Beautifully talented. She has an amazing eye for color and the gift of flower design. She creates gorgeous arrangements with a variety of styles - elegant, feminine, modern, clean. Best of all, Erica is a wonderful friend, so I'm able to enjoy her arrangements on many occasions.

After years of working in retail flower shops, Erica recently braved her dream and began The Flower Girl where she can design and create to her heart's content. Last night we had dinner with a few friends, and I wanted to showcase her work of art.