Weddings, Michael Jackson, + The Things that Help Us Remember

"Really great people make you feel that you, too, can become great."

-Mark Twain 

One of my goals for 2012 is to shoot more weddings. I LOVE weddings. Everything about a wedding day is exciting and special. I love that there are never a shortage of things to photograph, memories to capture, and moments that will happen only once. And driving home after a wedding is the best, because I think back to all of the things that happened in the last 8 hours, and realize that when I show the couple the pictures, they will re-live every moment. That's why pictures are so important, they help us remember.

Yes, there are moments of pressure and the night before consists of a lot of checking and double checking. Batteries, lenses, mints, shoes, camera. But after I take the first picture, I remember why I love my job, and I forget all of the stress.

In October, I had the pleasure of second shooting for one of my favorite photographers, Melissa Shaw. Take a look at her website HERE. She does an AMAZING job and working with her was such a gift. I was able to learn a lot and ask questions along the way. She has a way of making people feel comfortable in front of her camera, and the pictures always look natural and never forced. Her personality is easy to work with and be around, her sense of humor is stellar, basically, she's fantastic. Give her a call!

The bride and groom, Mitchell and Brittany were fabulous. They have been together for a while, and their family and friends filled up the room to look on as they said their vows. In Bremerton, the weather stayed clear for pictures, and even gave us a beautiful sunset to end the night. He makes her laugh, and from looking at these pictures again, I am positive they will have a life full of laughter. What better way to spend forever?

After the ceremony and formal photos were over, Melissa and I were able to eat some delicious food, take pictures of the dances and toasts that definitely made me tear up, and then break out some of our own dance moves. Melissa basically has the same skill level as Michael Jackson, she almost broke out her glove.

Thank you Mitchell and Brittany for allowing me to be a part of your wedding. You are wonderful people and made me laugh the whole day. Thank you Melissa for allowing me to second shoot with you. It really was such a great day, and you are the best dancer I know. Can't wait to second shoot for you again sometime!

Here are a few of my favorites...

 

Life is beautiful. 

See more of my work at www.kelseylynnephotography.com. Become a fan of my work on FACEBOOK. Give me a call so we can chat, 253.569.7600.

Kindness, Hot Chocolate, + My Dream Wardrobe

"A daughter is one of the most beautiful gifts this world has to give."

-Laurel Atherton

Nicole and Zoe are the most adorable. Really, they have the same bright eyes and long eyelashes. They are a mother daughter duo that is sure to change the world. When Nicole speaks, her voice is calm and caring. Like she is talking directly to your heart. She makes everyone her instant friend, the kind you want to sit and talk with for hours over hot chocolate. Sometimes people keep their nice thoughts inside, not Nicole. She shares her compliments and her kind words, to make everyone know that they are important and loved. She is one in a million, one who I hope to be like someday.

Zoe came ready for her close-ups and brought 3 of the most adorable outfits. I mean, fur coats, suede boots, gold dress, plaid coat. This baby girl has my dream wardrobe. She dresses like a princess, because she knows she is one. Her mama makes sure she knows that one day she can change the world, influence the people around her, and do anything she dreams of. Her big blue eyes were the perfect accessory. And those eyelashes. Get it girl.

Nicole, you are the best mama. Zoe knows she is loved and she will grow up believing in herself because you are so faithful. You are going to have the best relationship and I am sure when she gets older, we will take more pictures of your beautiful faces and she will tell me how much she loves having you in her life. Forever. Thank you for your kind words that made me feel so loved, and so capable of achieving my dreams. Thank you for not being afraid to be so nice. Your words went right into my heart, and I'm keeping them there forever. I need you in my life. You are wonderful.

Here are a few of my favorites of this little princess and her amazing mama. 

Life is better with instant friends. 

See more of my work at www.kelseylynnephotography.com. Become a fan of my work on FACEBOOK. Give me a call so we can chat, 253.569.7600.

Compliments, Adventures, + The Garland Family

"One way to get the most out of life is to look upon it as an adventure."

-William Feather

I have mentioned the Garland Family multiple times. I have told you that they are like Rainbow Sprinkles, and thinking about that again, I realize how true it is. The night before Thanksgiving, Cara and I went shopping at 10 PM and laughed for nearly an entire hour. I'm not sure why I don't always go grocery shopping with Cara. It definitely has to go at the top of my list of favorite activities. This family session is second on the list.

I have been wanting to take pictures of the whole Garland family for years. Really, I have asked Cara and Justin MULTIPLE times. After my almost low-level stalking, they agreed to meet for some family photos. After Cara had seen some of the pictures, she texted me and said, "I'm so glad we finally did this." Really, as a photographer, that is the highest compliment. To have someone feel like life is better now that they have these pictures, these memories. Captured forever. Holler at your mom.

Daniel and Joshua are full of life. These boys laugh and play and are adventurous. They aren't timid and boring. They are determined to have as much fun each minute of the day as possible. They get it from their parents. Cara and Justin are always out to have the best time, and make the best out of each moment.

Cara and Justin. Your family is my favorite. I love each moment that I get to spend time with you guys. Your boys are the sweetest and they are definitely going to have wonderful adventures with you by their side the whole time they are growing up. You are the best parents and I can't wait to meet the new baby in just a few months!

Take a look. And remember, life is an adventure. Don't forget to play. 

Life is an adventure. 

See more of my work at www.kelseylynnephotography.com. Become a fan of my work on FACEBOOK. Give me a call so we can chat, 253.569.7600.

Gratitude, Dreams, + Full Hearts

"It takes a lot of courage to show your dreams to someone else."

-Erma Brombeck

It's the middle of the night. I'm wide awake sitting here in awe of how much I love the place I am in. Really, I feel excited each time I get a phone call about photography, every time I get to tell someone about what I do. I feel excited to write each Christmas card to my wonderful clients. I feel thankful that my parents didn't laugh at me when I told them my dream of being a photographer. And they still don't laugh at me when I tell them my goals for 2012.

Internet, I have big plans. But really, the only reason I feel safe to dream big is because I have an even bigger safety net. My friends and family. They are always backing me up, pushing me to dream big, and always telling me that anything is possible. Pushing me to not settle with okay, to take more pictures, to be myself, to find my style. I know this probably sounds cheesy, but I would not be where I am without them.

I have a heart full of thanks. Thank you Mom and Dad for being my biggest supporters and voices of reason. Thank you for believing that I can do this and one day be the photographer I dream about being. Thank you Tara Mae for being the kindest support ever, the best umbrella holder, the best dog toy squeaker, the best tic tac giver-outer. Thank you Michelle and Josiah and Melissa for being so kind and generous with your knowledge of photography and for pushing me to work on my weaknesses and turn them into strengths. And thank you clients and blog post readers, for being your rockin' selves. For trusting me to take your pictures and for making me the happiest person alive.

Here are some pictures from the last few months. These people are the reason I feel excited to turn on my computer and edit until my eyeballs feel like they might fall out of my face. Until the clock says 2:00 AM, and my yawns are lasting for hours. Because these pictures make me feel alive and my heart explode with  gratitude. 

Happy Thanksgiving, dream big this year. 

Life is best with a full heart.

See more of my work at www.kelseylynnephotography.com. Become a fan of my work on FACEBOOK. Give me a call so we can chat, 253.569.7600.

Relaxation, Christmas Presents, + The Eyebrow Whisperer

"The time to relax is when you don't have time for it."

-Sydney J. Harris 

Britani is one of the NICEST people I have ever known. I got to know her when she was a student in Generational Leadership and I was on staff. During that year, I watched her experience the love of God and it changed her life. She became confident and influential. We have become great friends and I am so glad. She is kind and caring, asks questions about my life because I know she genuinely cares about me. She is patient and passionate.

Before Britani did GL, she was an Esthetician. She is FABULOUS at it. Really. She has the best demeanor, and makes you feel so comfortable and relaxed. She has waxed my eyebrows and given me facials. Oh my goodness, Facials. BEST.THING.EVER. I just got one last week and told her that if I could get one every week, I would definitely. I also call her the eyebrow whisperer. I think she's happy with her new title. I know my eyebrows are happy that they don't connect in the middle. They like to be independent and have their own space. Britani makes it happen.

This year, Britani has opened her own Day Spa in Bonney Lake at Beyond Design Salon. Visit Her Facebook Page and click "Like" to keep up on all of her specials. Get 25% off of your first spa service! Also, its a great gift for Christmas! What mama or best friend doesn't want a few hours of pampering! And if you buy a gift certificate, you get a complimentary eyebrow wax!!! Visit Her Website to view the list of services and pricing! Also! She does make-up for events and weddings! I have seen her work, and she makes anyone camera ready!

Also, Britani sells the Eminence Skin Care Line. The products are amazing and they smell divine. I bought one of the masques and it makes my face feel awesome!

We took some pictures for Britani to maybe put on her website, and because every girl needs to model once in a while. Seriously, she worked it. The camera loves her pretty smile and her bright eyes. Not to mention, her hair is my favorite. This girl is gorgeous. Let me show you.

Life is so lovely, just like Britani.

See more of my work at www.kelseylynnephotography.com. Become a fan of my work on FACEBOOK. Give me a call so we can chat, 253.569.7600.

Baby Aaron William : Newborn

"Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart."

-Winnie the Pooh

Jennifer called me at 4:35 AM on the one night that I had put my phone on silent. IN YEARS. When I woke up, I saw the missed call and voicemail. I knew it meant Baby Aaron was on his way. 3 weeks early. His birthday was supposed to be around Thanksgiving, but November 3rd seemed like the perfect day for him to arrive.

I drove to the hospital around 10 in the morning and spent most of the afternoon walking around with Lance, Jenn, and Maralee. We were trying to get this baby to arrive, and apparently walking does the trick. Who knew? Not this girl. After a long day of waiting, at 9:55 PM, Jennifer was taken to have an unplanned C-section. 5 lbs. 13 oz. Baby Aaron William Swenson was finally here. His mama was strong the whole day, and his dad was there to lighten the mood and for support. His brother and sister were happy to finally meet him and looked proud when they told me how perfect he was. While I was driving home in the middle of the night, I thought about how much I am glad to be a part of this family.

A week after his birthday, I went over to take some pictures of baby Aaron. He was 5 lbs. 9 oz. when these pictures were taken, and he slept the whole time. Watching Lance and Jenn with their new baby is overwhelming. An unexpected gift, but one that takes up so much room in their heart. Way more room than 5 pounds. Welcome to the family, Baby Aaron. You are so loved already.

Here is the baby. Sweet, soft, sleepy...

This adorable giraffe hat was made by One Knotty Mama. Go "Like" her Facebook page and buy a cute hat for yourself or your kiddos! 

This adorable Beanie was made by HeatherBell Hats. I'm in love with "Dream" button! How perfect!

Life is full of unexpected miracles. 

See more of my work at www.kelseylynnephotography.com. Become a fan of my work on FACEBOOK. Give me a call so we can chat, 253.569.7600.