Seersucker, mustard bowtie, and all things Southern proper made my heart melt when I met Blain. Of course, I expected nothing less than this fabulous compilation after friending his lovely momma, Taylor. He was so full sweet, toddler-style animated expressions, too. Bright eyes, big smiles, and lots of love. I hope you enjoy…

As always, my favorite part of family sessions…

Blain, husband and daddy, was so gentle with both Taylor and Blain. I always love observing the dynamic of the families I photograph. This one was gentle, sweet, meticulous. So beautiful to me.

And although mother-baby shots tend to be my favorites, this sweet shot of Blain and daddy might win. Taylor, Blain, and Blain, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to document such monumental beginnings in the life of your sweet family. I wish you the happiest 2014.

From our family to yours, we wish you the most Merry Christmas and love-filled holiday season. I’m grateful for a little low-key time off to check out with family and friends. I’ll resume answering emails and blogging next week, then full office hours after the new year. Until then, I hope you get some time to enjoy the most wonderful time of the year!

I would introduce him, but I think we all know by now that Harrison needs no introduction, whatsoever. If for some reason you’ve been living under a rock (er, or just haven’t followed me) and don’t know who Harrison is…well, welcome to all that is freaking adorable in the toddler world. I’ve photographed him since Kate’s maternity photos, and well, he hams it up for me every single time. And for you mothers who think “my kid won’t do that”–fear not, for I have a few tricks up my sleeve. Despite all parents’ fears of their child not behaving for photographs, we always seem to bring out the perfect personality of the child and age during sessions.

Anyhow, here’s my dapper young gentleman, Harrison in all of his Christmas plaid and bowtie goodness…

These aren’t my props. Kate brings all of her vision along with her in prop form every time we do his sessions and we collaborate to make her visions and mine connect. Harrison’s first Christmas session isn’t on the blog, but if you’re interested in seeing more of this little cutie from that particular session, you can view it on the the Facebook fan page, here. You could also “like” that page while you’re visiting. (; He also has several other ones here and here. 

Kate, Michael, and Harrison, as always I love you guys and am ever grateful for documenting the milestones of your sweet life.

Leah and Jason met here working at Global Wildlife while still finishing up their degrees. From swimming in the pond after work, other countless cherished memories–including their engagement, wedding reception, and frequent visits back now with their sweet Jacques, this place holds quite a majestic feeling for them. After spending time with them here, I completely understood why. Watching them know the place forwards and backwards and thinking of the memories they’ve created here, I realized how truly beautiful it was that their first real photo session with Jacques should be documented at this very place.

This session truly put the meaning in Lifestyle Photography and it was SO much fun. Because both Jason and Leah worked here for so long, we got to go on a private excursion, led by Jason, to stop and let Jacques encounter all of mommy and daddy’s favorite animals. It was kind of exhilarating for the super girly girl I am. I mean, how often do you get chased by a giant cow…with giant horns…while photographing people? Don’t worry, we made it in the vehicle before he really started running. (;

My goodness, those golden locks and bright eyes–so beautiful, baby boy. And I must say, the tiny tantrum below was the most adorable tiny tantrum I’ve ever seen. 

The giraffes were probably the coolest for me. They were so giant, so close, and so sweet. They just stuck their heads right on in the truck with us and had a little snack…

Leah’s favorite was the llama, but I’m not sure that Jacques agreed. (; Leah and Jason, this was truly an exciting and beautiful experience for me. Thank you for allowing me to see and document such a large part of what made up the beginnings of your beautiful little family, and of what matters most to you.

A girl born and raised near the mossy trees and cypress knees of South Louisiana, Ashley knew in every ounce of her being that her heart desired the most traditional Southern Catholic wedding with hints of all things reminding her of her sweet childhood and heritage. Both food lovers and raised near the bayous of South Louisiana, these sweet Southern elements came easily. I love the soft tones, mossy grey hues, and natural light that filled Ashley and Matt’s day.

Ashley gifted her parents sentimental tokens of her appreciation on the morning of her wedding day, and for her mother, that meant Love You Forever by Robert Munsch. I’d like to imagine this book holds sentimental value for a few of us. I don’t think I’ll ever forget my own personal memories of the countless times my granny read it to me as a child…

Her wedding party was small and her colors were classic–all making for a timeless compilation of color and emotion to encompass the day.

Ashley and Matt did not opt for a first look, however, her dad hadn’t seen her dress or any elements of the day, so she had a very special moment with him.

Ashley and Matt had a traditional Catholic Mass, followed by a traditional South Louisiana reception. If you know anything about South Louisiana weddings, you know this means the dance floor wasn’t empty. (;

Both Ashley and Matt’s mothers were not shy of a good time, and our cameras were thankful.

 Ashley and Matt, thank you for choosing us to be a part of your day. I hope for you nothing less than a lifetime of love, cherished moments, and happiness.