A full heart

I try not to get too personal on my posts but as I sat down to write this blog post all I could think about was the tragic events that happened yesterday. 

I have my posts planned out and today was going to be about how much fun we have been having celebrating Christmas this year. And about how excited I am to see Patrick open his presents and play with his new toys. I have been so busy shopping, baking, and decorating just trying to create fun memories that I am forgetting what is most important.

As I scroll through Facebook and read everyone's status about their personal feelings, I can only think of one thing, and that is how lucky I am to believe what I believe. My family will be together forever! My heart truly aches for the people who have lost their loved ones, but I hope that we all can find peace and happiness when we celebrate the birth of our Savior this Christmas season.  

A Year Later

As of today, I have officially been in business for a year! There have been some really tough times, really good times and lots of learning experiences. It has been such a journey and I am proud of where my hard work has taken me. I started with absolutley no idea what I was doing and terrified of rejection but I am so glad that I did not let that hold me back.

Last year I started by writing down my goals, my dreams and aspirations. There have been times throughout this year where all I wanted to do was quit and give up. It has not been an easy road but my goals (and my husband) have been the motivation to keep going. Although, some of my dreams have changed, all I want is to be a better photographer then I was yesterday.

I have spent hours and so many late nights trying to be a better photographer and learning as much as I could. I love looking at the pictures I took when I first started, it shows how much I have improved. I love taking photos. I love my camera. It has become a part of me.


I am so lucky to be able to do what I love. I have created some awesome friendships that will last forever! With the help, support and encouragement of all my friends and family, I wouldnt be where I am. It has been the only thing that has helped me succeed.


"A goal without a plan is just a wish" -Antonio de Saint Exupery



These are some of my favorite photos from last week. Thanks again to Paige and Krissy for being such great friends!

Around The House :: Christmas Edition

This is my favorite time of year. I love having my home smell of a fresh Christmas tree! I love wrapping presents. I love giving and getting Christmas cards from all our friends and family. I really love hot chocolate and driving around looking at Christmas lights. I have a small apartment, and I might have overdone it, but it is too much fun not too.

the must have list {for photographers}

Whether you are crazy about photography or someone you love is, these are the perfect gifts that will make anyone smile!




1: 50mm Lens- This lens is the perfect gift for someone who loves taking photos. It is reasonably priced and is a great portrait lens. It gives your photos a nice blurry background, which is something we all love.

2: Camera Strap- A camera strap is a fun accessory. I love all of the colors and styles that you can find on Etsy.







3: Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson- This book is a great guide or how to great great photos. Learn how to go from auto to manual and it will also give you a better understanding of aperture and shutter speed.





4: Photo Album- A vintage camera photo album is the perfect gift and will look super cute in any home. Plus, it is a great way to show off all your amazing photos.







5: Photoshop Elements- This is great for beginners. It is much less than the regular version of photoshop but can do just about the same stuff.





6: Ona Bag- I love these bags! They are stylish, yet very practical. When you just need to carry around some of your equipment, this will be perfect.








7: Instagram Prints- From stickers to full size canvas prints, you are sure to find something you will love.

My wish list:

85mm lens

Lensbaby Composer

I also saw this today and this is exactly how I am!

The Stevens Family

I am so excited to be blogging these photos of this adorable family! I first met them in our old ward, here in Rexburg and I am glad we stayed in touch. It was a horrible day with rain, hail and strong wind, I was glad that they were willing to endure because it turned out great! It was such a joy to shoot the Stevens family. 

Enjoy!

very exciting news!

We have some very exciting news! watch the video to find out what it is!

My husband has worked so hard and I couldn't be prouder. We will start school next September! And I can't wait!

A Little Christmas Cheer

It is December! I wait all year for this time. There is just something about this holiday season that makes everything better and now that Patrick is a little older, it is so fun to share all of our traditions and even create some new ones. He has loved playing by the christmas tree and all the glittery ornaments. We have already been busy wrapping presents and we even started our advent calendar this morning.

I found this burlap garland at a local craft store and knew I had to have it. Inside every pocket is a little treat and an activity. The activities are simple and mostly for Patrick, but it will be fun to share these moments with him. We will be heading to Washington for the holidays so I only put in 15 activities.

Here are what we are going to do:

Read a Christmas book

Make a Christmas card

Facetime with Grammie and Papa

Take a Christmas family photo

Go see Santa

Take cookies to our neighbors

Watch A Charlie Brown Christmas

Drive to see Christmas lights

Make a gingerbread house

Color a Christmas picture

Drink eggnog

Tie jingle bells to Patricks shoes

Watch How The Grinch Stole Christmas

Write letters to Santa

Go Christmas Shopping

I hope that you have a great holiday season, and I would love to hear what your traditions are? Any great advent calendar ideas?