Hill Family

This session took place in September, but I was under strict instructions to keep the images under wraps until after the holidays and Christmas cards were mailed! It was hard to keep them secret because it was such a fun & unique session! I will be the first to admit that I was hesitant to take on the request of a "paparazzi" style shoot  - only because it was new territory for me. I think I even tried to talk them out of it at one point or maybe I was trying to talk myself into it?! But James, Stacy, and their FIVE kiddos were determined to pull it off and I really do love the finished product. I love that all the kids (yes, they have FIVE!!) were so involved in picking out their outfits and the props - note the sunglasses, scarves, big purses, mobile devices, Nordstrom bag, Starbucks - all intentional! Such a fun evening with this crew! I hope they come up with something "new" for me to take on next time!!!

Rosie raises her hands up when you say, "Praise the Lord, Rosie!"  Love that!

Longmeier Family

I love taking photos for my family! These little blondies belong to my brother and sister-in-law...Theron + Burgh (twins, age 5) and Kempton (age 3). I am 9 years older than my brother and clearly remember the day he was born (I was in the 3rd grade!)...there was something extra special that happened for me when he had kids of his own and a set of twins! My twin girls were 7 1/2 when his twins were born. My brother is an outstanding father, Pastor at New Community Church, and in his free time he started his own business - CrossFit Duratus. Can you tell that I am proud of him?!  I am pretty much in awe of my sister-in-law and how she handles these busy little guys (the twins weren't even 2 when baby #3 arrived!) - she pretty much spends every ounce of her being pouring into them...they are so loved! I feel lucky that we live close and I get to photograph them on a regular basis - love you all so much!!

Miller Family

This was a fun session...a new location and this gorgeous family made for a great afternoon! And there is really nothing better than taking photos for dear friends! Ryan is my pastor and one of the most creative persons I know. And Heidi, also incredibly creative, beautiful, and so loving. Together they own a fabulous card company right here in Mead, WA - Mango Ink. I've ordered from them many times over the years and love the quality and personal service. Three years ago they planted a little church called Branches. My family and I attended that very first Sunday and knew immediately that this was the start of something awesome and we were all so excited to be a part of it. It was an honor to photograph a family that I hold so near and dear to my heart! Thank you Ryan & Heidi - I hope you cherish these photos for many years.

Vaughan Family

When Danielle first booked her session she said, "just pictures of the kids." What?! Naturally, my response was..."Sorry, not happening. You and Justin have to be in the photos as well. Seriously, I know you don't have a recent photo of the FOUR of you together!"

See, I knew they just needed a teeny tiny push in the right direction and I am so glad it worked. Aren't they a beautiful family?! I have photographed "just the kids" in the past (long before Leaving A Mark was a reality) and I am so very grateful for those practice sessions!!!

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Taylor Family

Happy, loving, joyful, genuine...these are just a few of the words that come to mind when I think of Gabe, Ginny, and little Miss Alden. This session took place on a beautiful October afternoon, the light was seriously perfect, AND it was Ginny's 30th Birthday! Ginny is a local photographer  - check out her amazing work here...it was truly an honor to photograph her beautiful family. Photography was an instant connection for the two of us and I quickly learned what a blessing it is to have a friend in the industry. Our friendship is new, but already so near and dear to my heart. So many favorites from this session (hard to choose!).