ariel + kyle, a preview | married at the grotto at saint edward park | seattle elopement photographers

Ariel + Kyle were married, elopement style, at the Grotto at Saint Edward State Park. It was a gorgeous, sunny day, and I was honored to stand among their 14 closest friends and family members to capture their wedding images.

suvi + jeanot | engagement at powell butte nature park | portland wedding photographers

I know, I talk about the weather a lot. Weather can so drastically change the drama, look and feel of a photo. I'm a firm believer in the fact that you can shoot beautiful images in any weather. That being said, Suvi + Jeanot and I were thrilled when the sun actually showed its face for the first time in what felt like years. 

Congratulations to you, Suvi + Jeanot on your upcoming wedding. It was a privilege to capture our time together, thanks for allowing me to catch a glimpse of your love. 

lailah rose | 22 months

Lately, as I choose photos, I am called to those that contain more motion and emotion, rather than prettiness and perfection. Framing, exposure, color, light. I get it, they're all important. All are taken into account every time I hit the shutter. But motion, emotion, will always win.

Perhaps this is due in part to my experiences photographing Lailah. Her and I took one photo a week for a full year. After that, I slowed down to once a month, and long ago abandoned any thought of posing, perfection. Trying for perfection with a wild and willful toddler fell by the wayside, and not a moment too soon. I've never been a photographer bent on perfection in my images, but photographing Lailah has brought this philosophy to the forefront more than ever. Of course I will always strive to be better. Of course I will put my utmost care into every photograph I take. But ultimately, I'm in it for the substance. No more building moments, holding onto artifice. Instead, I'll strive to capture moments, foster moments, nurture them.

Deal? Deal.

Also, if you're getting married, and you want to take puddle-splashing photos, I'm your girl.