Spark Creative Photography

My Blog has MOVED!

2009-08-08T09:22:00.002-05:00

I will no longer be posting updates to this blog. Please click here to see my new fabulous blog: www.sparkcreativeblog.com

Thanks!

Annmarie and Kyle E-Session

2009-08-03T09:13:00.004-05:00

Annmarie and Kyle are one of my fabulous 2010 couples! We met at the Ada Covered Bridge on a perfect July evening. Annmarie and Kyle met two years ago when Annmarie was a cheerleader at a local football game. She caught Kyle's attention and they met each other after the game. They have been together ever since! They told me they don't think their story is that romantic; to me, it sounds like an all-American fairy tale.

Enjoy your preview! Can't wait for July 2010!

Bethany Open 2009

2009-08-02T14:51:00.002-05:00

Monday, July 27, 2009 was a beautiful day out on Egypt Valley's golf course for the 24th annual Bethany Open. Here are a few pictures documenting this fund raising event. Enjoy!

Morgan & Paul Engagement Pics

2009-07-30T16:41:00.005-05:00

Morgan and Paul met at GVSU when fate placed them in the same class. Morgan thought Paul was cute! One thing led to another and before long, they were an item. Now they are getting married next April! They are one of the smiliest couples I have ever photographed. Morgan's smile is huge and Paul kept making her giggle. Love that! I had such a blast working with them! Can't wait for the wedding you two!

Jack and Charlotte

2009-07-25T14:03:00.003-05:00

Meet Jack and Charlotte. Jack is 2 years old and loves trains and suckers. His mom, Carrie, aka carriecee was among the winners of my Christmas give-a-way back in December. She emailed me so we could set up her compliment one hour session. (Any other winners out there interested in booking a session? Send me an email and we can schedule a shoot!)

Here's Jack...

He is a ferocious colorer!

This is Jack showing me his teeth! Cute, huh?

This is one of the trains he likes.

And here he is on his grandpa's tractor.

Jack also likes bubbles!

This is Charlotte.

Is she a doll or what? Total senior pose!

Love those cheeks!

What a smile! (Her mom was making funny faces and weird noises. I was laughing too!)

Tiny feet!

Then exhaustion hit...

What a nice big brother!

Thanks for having me over! I hope we get to see each other again in the future!

Justine and Cody

2009-07-23T19:03:00.004-05:00

Saturday, July 18, Justine and Cody were married in downtown Kalamazoo and the most beautiful church I have photographed!
These two are SO incredibly meant.to.be!
They were high school sweethearts.
They look at each other and everyone else in the room just disappears.
This is what true love looks like!

Hope you have a wonderful four weeks in Europe! Thanks for letting me part of your day!

Justine and Cody

2009-07-19T05:01:00.002-05:00

Justine and Cody were married today in downtown Kalamazoo.
Here's a quick look at one shot I love: Justine and Cody completely beaming at each other!

Congrats you two! More to come later!

Kara and Derek

2009-07-16T20:52:00.003-05:00

Kara and Derek met with me at Riverside Park. The forecast promised rain and we were uncertain whether we would be able to keep the appointment. It turned out to be a beautiful evening - most definitely the best part of the entire day! Sunshine, a few clouds, and an amazing sunset!

Kara and Derek are getting married this September. They are the first couple to ask me for marriage advice! It was so cute! (But I guess that means I'm not a newlywed anymore. Boo! I still feel like one though.) Hopefully what I shared was helpful but since I've only been married just four years, I'm not expert on the subject. I just know you've got to LOVE each other!

These two are filled with all-consuming love. You can see it on their faces!

You guys are adorable! Can't wait for 9.26.09!!!

On the Farm

2009-07-13T09:00:00.003-05:00

Over the weekend, I visited my sister and her family in Madison, WI. These two cuties are some of my favorite little people. My nephews, Jeremiah and Josiah, let me take pictures of them on the farm where they have a huge lush vegetable garden. It was a perfect day and a beautiful setting for pictures!

I had SO much fun with all of you this weekend! Can't wait to see you again in a few weeks!

Natalie and Chris E-Session

2009-07-07T20:27:00.002-05:00

Natalie and Chris decided to have their engagement pictures taken at Leslie Tassel Park. Chris' grandpa helped fund the building of this park. There is even a brick with Chris' name on it! Holy smokes!

Here's a few images from our super fun session. We thought the weather was not going to cooperate with us, but we toughed it out and it even got sunny! Hurray!!

Chris thought this pose would be funny - marriage is like prison. Silly Chris.

Thanks for a fun night guys! Can't wait for your big day in October!

Vanessa and Jeff

2009-07-02T20:33:00.004-05:00

Vanessa and Jeff were married last week Saturday at the John Ball Zoo.

The morning started out with a swan boat ride in the zoo pond.

The zoo's rose garden was a perfect backdrop for more photos.

The guys

West Side!

Don't ya just LOVE these suits?

Ceremony

You may kiss...

Jeff's idea of the perfect wedding shot:

Traverse City Wine - yum!

One of the cutest guests:

A rare shot of me workin' it, and my 2nd shooter and sister, Kat.

Thanks for sharing your day with us! Have a great honeymoon!

Traverse City State Hospital

2009-06-23T20:41:00.004-05:00

I know this is far from what I usually post about but I just HAD to share these pictures. Last week I was in Traverse City for a week long photography training. In the midst of stuffing my brain with knowledge, my classmates and I decided to take an evening road trip to the abandoned asylum. What could be better for an eager photographer than crumbling buildings and haunting stories? Here's what I captured (don't get too scared!):

Trisha and Ryan

2009-06-07T20:45:00.003-05:00

Trisha and Ryan :: Married Saturday, June 6, 2009!!

I have known Trisha and Ryan for a few years now and I was so excited when they asked me to photograph their wedding! They are both incredibly sweet and completely in love. You may remember their engagement pictures from last summer.

The weather was perfect on their big day and I loved Trisha's flowers and color choices! The wedding party could not have been more fun and fabulous! I think I cried at least three times during the day because when I see two people so in love, it makes my heart burst!

Congrats again you two! Enjoy your preview!

Meg

2009-06-04T19:37:00.006-05:00

I met with Amy and Meg at Riverside Park last Sunday. Meg just turned one. Here are a few things I learned about Meg: she really likes dogs, she really likes frisbees, she has pretty blue eyes, and she doesn't like to wear shoes. Enjoy!

What a cutie!
Thanks for hangin' with me girls! Hope you like your preview!

Katy and James

2009-05-30T20:17:00.004-05:00

Last Saturday, Katy and James were married on the campus of Michigan State University. The weather was perfect, the couple was sweet, and I again, must say, I.LOVE. MY. JOB!

I know it may seem that I am always saying this, but seriously, I adore this couple!

Details

The Bling

First seeing each other

The Kiss

The First Dance

Lawn Games

True Love

Congrats you two! I wish you a lifetime of wedded bliss!

Pictures of Pros

2009-05-20T18:40:00.003-05:00

Monday afternoon I headed out with two other professional photographers so we could snap pictures of each other. We wandered around downtown GR laughing, posing, and even got hollered at by a few guys as we modeled!

Here is Cyndi from Inspirations Photography. She is a total doll! This picture strikes me because she is rarely without a huge Julia Roberts smile on her face.

Love her hair in this shot!

Another rare serious moment

Don't you just love her smile?!

And Christine Gribble of Christine Wedding and Portrait Design. Christine laughed more than just smiling in most of her shots. This was partly due to Cyndi making crazy faces at her.

Super model smile!

Hello Orange Wall!

This is a building Cyndi spotted. I have driven past it, literally, at least 50 times and never noticed how great it is.

Love it!

Thanks for sharing the afternoon and your talents with me! Can't wait to see your shots of me. (Actually I'm a little nervous. I do much better behind the camera than in front)

Guest Book Sample

2009-05-11T21:15:00.002-05:00

Here's what I was working on tonight: a new Guest Book design. If I may say so myself, I LOVE this idea! Instead of having guests sign a "normal" guest book with just lines, this design utilizes engagement pictures and leaves plenty of blank space for guests to sign and include a personal message to the newly wedded couple. What do you think? Love it too?

Open publication - Free publishing - More guest book

Amanda and TJ E-session

2009-05-08T06:18:00.002-05:00

Amanda and TJ wanted pictures downtown. Due to all the crazy rain we have been getting lately, the spot we were going to shoot at was completely flooded. That meant we had to find some alternative locations. We wandered all over downtown GR, looking for fun, gritty, urban backdrops. It was totally fun! Check it:

Enjoy your preview! Can't wait to work with you on your big day! You guys are naturals! :)

Katy & James Engagement Pics

2009-05-05T06:50:00.001-05:00

Katy and James are two of the sweetest people you will ever meet. They are a little shy, a little goofy, and totally in love. I had a great time photographing them all over downtown GR.

Can't wait for the wedding you two!

Jill & Matt's Day

2009-05-03T09:45:00.003-05:00

Jill and Matt gave me the honor of photographing their wedding day last week Saturday. I absolutely adore both of them and was so full of love and warmth after working with them that I couldn't stop thinking about how much I love my job! Here's part of their story...

Getting Ready:

First Seeing Each Other:

Ceremony:

Portraits:

Details:

The PARTAY Bus!

Reception:

The First Dance:

Sneak Peek - Jill & Matt

2009-04-26T20:20:00.004-05:00

Here's a little sneak peek at the fabulous wedding I photographed yesterday!

More to come later!

In My Yard...

2009-04-19T13:33:00.002-05:00

Mike and Erin's Album

2009-04-16T18:47:00.003-05:00

Here is an album I have been working on recently. I was so excited when I found out I could publish it so I wanted to share it! More pictures once the real thing comes in from my print lab!

Open publication - Free publishing - More wedding album

Meeting a Princess

2009-04-06T10:16:00.004-05:00

Last Saturday I had the privilege of photographing a wonderful event where a real princess came to speak to a group of precious girls. It took place at St. Cecilia in downtown Grand Rapids. The decorations were beautiful, the story was touching, and the girls fell in love with Sarah Culberson, the princess of Sierra Leone. Here are a few of my favorite pictures from the day.

Announcing....

2009-04-03T06:21:00.002-05:00

My NEW website!!! After months of searching and weeks of planning, I finally have a new website! Check it here! Leave me your thoughts - I love feedback!

2009-03-23T19:47:00.003-05:00

Sunday afternoon I had the privilege of photographing the Meredith family. You may recognize them from Lindsey and Andy's wedding photos a few months ago. I was so excited when they called and asked me to take some family photos. We met at Johnson Park and although it was a tad chilly outside, their warm hearts and obvious love for each other made the photos spectacular!

Enjoy your preview!

Trash The Dress - For FREE!

2009-03-21T20:28:00.003-05:00

My big Blogiversary give away is....

a free Trash The Dress session for one lucky bride!

Leave a comment on my blog of why you would like this session and I will chose a random winner next week Saturday, 2.21.09. The only rule is the session needs to take place some time in 2009.

Good luck!

One Year Blogiversary!!!

2009-03-17T13:29:00.005-05:00

Guess what? This week is my one year Blogiversary!! I can't believe it's only been one year since I started this blog because in some ways it seems like I have had it for years! Owning a photography business has been so amazing and I sincerely think I have the BEST clients ever! I can't wait to see where another year brings me!

In celebration of my One Year Blogiversary, I am giving away stuff! If you sign up to be a "fan" on my Facebook page, between today (March 17, 2009) and Friday (March 20, 2009) I will mail you a $10 Spark Creative Photography gift card good for one year on any photo shoot scheduled or any prints you wish to purchase.

Email me your address and I will get the gift card in the mail to you. My email address is: rose@sparkcreativephotography.com

Saturday will be another give away so come on back!

Lyndsay & Travis

2009-02-28T10:26:00.002-06:00

Lyndsay and Travis were married in Jamaica in December. They decided to have a reception back here in GR last Saturday for all of their friends and relatives who didn't get to see them get married. It was held at the lovely Crowne Plaza.

Lyndsay got to be a beautiful bride twice! Lucky girl!

Travis was pretty relaxed, can you tell? :)

Lyndsay's attendants

We did sneak in some time just for Lyndsay and Travis. (Check out the reflection in the table - sweet!)

Putting the moves on his girl

The bride and groom are here! Let the party begin!!

I love shots like this!

The guests

This dude was a dancing machine!

Father-in-law and the bride doing "the twist"

Thanks for a great evening!

New Email Address

2009-02-25T06:46:00.002-06:00

A horrible discovery - hotmail is unreliable! I have learned that over the last few months many messages never made it to my inbox! They are out there floating in cyber space I guess. This is unacceptable! Be gone hotmail!

My new email address is rose@sparkcreativephotography.com

If you have emailed me within the last month and never received a response, please re-send as I probably never got your message.

Thank you!

New Logo!

2009-02-24T08:45:00.003-06:00

Check out my new logo!

As a graphic designer in my former life, I had fun creating it.

What do you think?

Caitlyn and Molly

2009-02-19T11:51:00.003-06:00

I drove out to Plainwell last Saturday for a Birthday photo shoot. Molly just turned two. Here she is with her big sister, Caitlyn.

Aw! Sister secrets.

Sisterly Love

Molly LOVES to dance. Check out this girl's moves!

Molly is also a little shopper. She chose this dress out all by herself at the Gap! Ta-da!

Then, like any girl, she has to check herself out in the mirror. Hee hee!

More dancing in THE dress.

Hey Girl!

Happy 2nd Birthday Molly!

Alayna and Ryer

2009-02-16T20:25:00.005-06:00

Alayna was two weeks old when I photographed her. She was tiny but such a little doll! Ryer was excited, super cute, and loved having attention while his new little sister was taking a nap.

Time for Alayna to wake up.

It's a tough process and involves a lot of stretching and grunting.

She even gets her feet into it.

After a little lunch, Alayna is ready for some more sleep.

We had other plans for her - naked baby pictures!!

This all very tiring for the poor little thing.

Then time for a little brother - sister bonding.

Their communication does not require words.

Nice baby!

Thanks for having me over! I had a great time!
To see a few more pictures from this shoot, please visit my Facebook page.
To see the entire shoot, please visit Smugmug.

A Pictoral Ode to my Amaryllis

2009-02-14T21:04:00.003-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-09T20:30:00.003-06:00

Here's what I did today:

Photographed a two week old ...

and her big brother.

More pictures later in the week.

Personal - Xmas/Valentine's Day Bowling Party

2009-02-08T15:24:00.005-06:00

I know I know - I've been MIA lately. But, an event came up that I just had to photograph: a Christmas/Valentine's Day Bowling Party. Yes, Christmas was six weeks ago but the Christmas party got canceled and was postponed until now.

The rules were if you dressed up in Valentine's day decor, you would get extra points. Since I'm no pro-bowler, I wore two different shades of pink and even donned a shirt with hearts on it, something I usually swear off. Our whole team also wore these glittery heart tattoos!

One team wore furry flashing heart necklaces - totally jealous! Here's Amanda modeling one.

We all brought treats too but not many of them were as pretty as Meagan's cupcakes,

or Emily's cookies (this one I took a bite of and then decided I just HAD to photograph it!)

Action photos

Aleaha throws it

And gets a strike!

Sassy Shanon!

On one foot

Me bowling backwards

The final score (yes, that's me with a measly 99 points but I was proud because I nearly got to 100!)

I vote for making this an annual event - until next year!

2009-01-27T20:34:00.003-06:00

Last Thursday evening I met with a group of mentors and their mentees from a local social services agency. The group was in for a surprise evening including a limo ride, pictures by the pedestrian bridge in downtown GR, and then an Italian dinner. I had the pleasure of documenting this night.

2009-01-20T22:03:00.000-06:00

This is Jack.

He's happy pretty much all of the time.

OK, here he might be stunned because he was tricked into wearing this fireman hat with no shirt.

Oh well. He's still happy!

This is Margo.

She's into dancing.

She loves this tutu.

Isn't she a little sweetie?

Jack in a rare non-smiling moment.

Check out those cheeks!

Thanks for letting me take pictures of you! Come back any time!

2009-01-10T18:54:00.006-06:00

Melanie and Mike are special to me. Their's was the first wedding I ever photographed as part of my business, Spark Creative Photography.
And now, they are expecting! I've never done a pregnancy shoot before but Melanie and Mike agreed to be my first.
Thanks for coming out and I hope you love your preview. Can't wait to meet little Carrie Ann in April.

Carrie Ann is already an active little tyke!

Congrats again you two! You are going to be wonderful parents!

2009-01-04T14:50:00.008-06:00

Lindsey and Andy were married on December 27, 2008.

Love these shoes!

Lindsey's mom knew how to tie perfect bows!

Lindsey had the most beautiful flowers and decorations!

The girls black dresses and bright pink flowers and sashes were so striking!

Check out these super cute shoes!

The happily married couple

Congrats you two! I wish you a lifetime of wedded bliss!

To see more images from this wedding, click here.

2008 HUGE Thank You

2008-12-31T11:48:00.005-06:00

2008 has been such an amazing year for Spark Creative Photography. My little business is growing, diversifying, and I'm loving every minute of it! A HUGE thank you to all of my clients from 2008!

To all of the brides, grooms, and their families - it was such a honor to photograph your weddings and I had a blast at each and every one! To all of the moms, dads, and their kids/seniors I had the opportunity to work with - thank you! I have and always will think that kids are the funniest people on this earth. And finally, thank you to those photographers who have helped guide me, inspire me, and have given me their wise council - I wouldn't be where I am without you!

I'm so excited for all of my upcoming 2009 weddings and look forward to celebrating and capturing each fabulous detail with my photography. I have shoots scheduled this January that I am super excited about including a pregnancy shoot (a first for me).

I am truly blessed and can't wait to see where this adventure takes me next! Thanks for following along!

Happy New Year!

Sneak Peek

2008-12-28T15:13:00.002-06:00

Lindsey and Andy were married yesterday. Although the weather was foggy and rainy, hearts were warm inside the church as everyone celebrated their love and the start of their new life together. Look for a preview later this week!

AND THE WINNERS ARE....

2008-12-21T06:34:00.006-06:00

nameisue

carriecee

Julie Scott

Judi Tieri

Congrats! Contact me to schedule a session.

Thanks to everyone who participated! It was so fun reading all of your posts. I would love to work with ALL of you! Therefore, I have a special deal for those of you who didn't win.

Starting in January I have access to a studio located near downtown GR. To kick off this exciting opportunity, I am offering half of any portrait session sitting fee. The usual sitting fee is $50 so you can book a session for only $25! Contact me for more information.

Merry Christmas!

Christmas Special 2008

2008-12-13T13:40:00.004-06:00

Because I love my clients so much, and because Christmas is the season for giving, I am offering a free one hour photo shoot to four people who post a comment on my blog between today, December 13, and Saturday, December 20. I will randomly choose the winner and will post the winner's names on Sunday, December 21. These photo shoots can take place any time in 2009 at the location of your choice. (This is open to former clients and any new prospective clients as well!)

Merry Christmas!

Teaser

2008-12-12T07:17:00.002-06:00

Special Christmas announcement coming soon!

2008-12-02T21:20:00.004-06:00

This is Audra.

She is 4 years old and very curious.

She had a lot of questions about my camera and my equipment.

What a cutie!

This is Nathan.

He was kind of shy at first.

But then he started laughing at his mom and his sister.

This is Brooke.

She was a perfect angel while Audra and Nathan had their pictures taken.

She didn't really like my camera.

Her mom distracted her and she did great.

Thanks for coming guys!

2008-11-28T21:02:00.005-06:00

Thanksgiving Day (Personal)

On the way to my brother's house, we came across some deer crossing the road. This is shot through my windshield so it's a bad picture but you may be able to pick out the furry dots in the frame if you look closely.

Turkey!

Hot turkey!

The spread.

Then we all went for a walk by Lake Michigan. It was freezing but pretty.

My nephew, Josiah, wanted to go in.

Going...

going...

nearly gone.

The rest of the day was spent playing Rock Band. Here's my hubby rocking it out on the guitar.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

2008-11-25T20:01:00.008-06:00

Erin and Mike were married on November 22. It was a cold but sunny day.

Erin was outside without a jacket so many times - what a trooper!

Their reception was held at the GVSU Eberhard Center. We took some shots outside before the partying began.

The entire bridal party was brave and let us take numerous pictures outside!

Bling Shots

These two are so in love! Weddings are beautiful! I LOVE my job!

Congrats again you two! Hope you like your preview!
P.S. To see a few more pictures, go here.

2008-11-23T21:25:00.003-06:00

Ellen...

and Carolyn...

are sisters.

The love each other - awww!

Carolyn...

has the cutest curly hair...

I've ever seen!

Total senior picture pose!

Giggle Pants

Dreaming

Ellen...

was trying to scare me!

She also...

was a natural model.

She made up all of her own poses!

Thanks for letting me take your pictures girls!

2008-11-20T21:21:00.004-06:00

Here's Anastasia. Isn't she such a pretty baby?

She came over today so I could take her picture and play around with my new studio light.

I found out she likes to stick her tongue out which is pretty adorable.

I caught her mid-yawn.

Thanks for coming over Ana!

See more images here.

2008-11-17T20:36:00.004-06:00

I know I know - I've been MIA lately. Life has been busy but I have exciting news. I have an at-home studio available now! I purchased a portable kit and just got it together this past weekend. My assistant and lovable sister, Queebz, agreed to come over and let me test everything out on her. Here's what we got:

And here's some more:

Then she turned the camera on me!
Not likin' it too much (with my fake smile)

Then my husband came (someone who can always make me smile "for real")

I have two portrait sessions this week and a wedding this weekend so keep checking back!

2008 Pricing

2008-11-04T09:07:00.004-06:00

Spark Creative Photography will be honoring the 2008 wedding package pricing for any 2009 wedding that is booked before January 1, 2009! The 2008 package price is $1000 which includes six hours of wedding coverage, two photographers, on-line proofing, and a $200 credit. This credit can purchase a high-resolution CD, a 10"x10" 12 page leather bound album, or $200 worth of prints from Spark Creative's professional print lab.
Contact Rose now to sent up an initial consultation.

2008-11-02T16:18:00.004-06:00

Yesterday I was honored to photograph Jennifer and Tyler's wedding. It was a classy affair held at the Amway Grand. My assistant, Emily, and I had so much fun, it hardly seemed like working. Here are a few pictures from the this amazing day.

The cookies in the below picture were a-mazing!

Enjoy your preview! I will be in touch in a few weeks.

P.S. To see more pictures, click here.

2008-10-31T18:43:00.006-05:00

Do you remember this little guy? It's my nephew, Josiah. I recently went to visit him and snapped a few shots during the Fall Festival. There was a costume parade that all the kids walked in.

Josiah did no walking. He was very energetic and ran and ran past all the rest of the kids.

Then we saw what he was running toward - the playground!

Riding in a plastic airplane

Look at that hair! It was super windy out!

And getting chased by a little girl made him giggle.

2008-10-22T20:35:00.004-05:00

Tonight I got to photograph some of the cutest kids in GR. Seriously, these two are completely adorable!!

Here's Olivia

Smelling a flower, everyone say Awwww

And here's her brother, Jaden.

Could his eyes be any bigger?

Posing by pumpkins

By mums

And in piles of leaves (fun with blur on this image)

We were throwing leaves at each other and this was Olivia's face when she got some thrown at her.

Jaden with perfect early evening light on his little face.

The siblings together

Thanks for letting me come over guys! You did a great job!

2008-10-13T07:41:00.004-05:00

Family portraits

Jessica, Jake, and their two pooches

Mindy and John

Mindy, John, and Jackson

Courtney, Mackenzie, Jessica and Jack

The whole gang

Thank you for inviting me to your home. What a beautiful fall day! Hope you like your preview!

See more pictures here.

2008-10-12T16:27:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I went out to Grant, MI to meet with Jackson and his family. I took Jackson's pictures a few months ago.
Here's a reminder of what he used to look like.

Here he is now, all grown up and already hard at work.

And the sneezing series (which I think is hilarious!)

Jackson, you did great! Emily, my wonderful assistant who kept Jackson smiling, you did a great job too!

P.S. I will post the family portrait preview a little later.

2008-10-04T16:49:00.006-05:00

This afternoon I went to Sarah and Eric's home to photograph their son, Luke.

Eric showed Luke this fuzzy little caterpillar. Luke was so gentle.

Silly face

Luke really wanted to lift the pumpkins. I think he thought they were balls to play with.

Sitting for a minute

Playing soccer

Thanks for a fun afternoon!

2008-10-03T19:59:00.004-05:00

The Bethany Cup golf outing took place on Monday, 9.29.08.

Two teams of players were playing to win their name engraved on this.

Although the weather was a tad cool, it still turned out to a beautiful day to be out on the Egypt Valley course.

Action photos

Announcement

2008-10-02T15:58:00.001-05:00

**Special through the end of October!**

Book your 2009 wedding before October 31, 2008 and receive 50 free 4"x6" prints.

Book a portrait session before October 31, 2008 and receive 10 free 4"x6" prints.

2008-09-28T21:34:00.005-05:00

Tonight I photographed engagement pictures for Trisha and Ryan. They are the most fun-loving and relaxed couple and so completely photogenic! My amazing assistant (and sister) Emily even mentioned how natural they seemed together. It's true you guys - you are too cute!

Enjoy your preview!

2008-09-21T13:53:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I met Emily, a Rockford High Senior, at her favorite place, the horse barn.

The horse really wanted Emily's attention.

Enjoy your preview Emily! I had a great time!

2008-09-14T17:37:00.005-05:00

Because one of my shoots was postponed this weekend, I finally had extra time to work on some supplemental items I am now happy to offer to my clients. Here they are:

Thank You note cards

Table tents using Engagement Photos

And Save The Date postcards

Let me know what you think.

2008-09-06T20:55:00.007-05:00

Last night I had the opportunity to shoot engagement photos for a fun loving couple, Jill & Matt.
We started out taking some photos at Jill's place of employment. Isn't it beautiful?

This was Jill's idea - so cute!

Telling secrets

Then we headed downtown.

We found this graffiti heart and had to pose by it!

Hope you like your preview guys! I can't wait for the wedding in April!

2008-09-02T18:07:00.003-05:00

Bethanie can't decide which pictures she likes best.
Help her by voting on one or two or three of the following:

#1

#2

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2008-08-27T21:59:00.005-05:00

Tonight I photographed my favorite senior, my niece, Bethanie.

Isn't she gorgeous?

Sorry about making you go down into this stinky area, but this shot turned out pretty good, don't ya think? Seriously folks, it was stink-y!!

Bethanie liked this red wall.

Look at those eyes!

Sunset shots by the river

I had fun tonight! Hope you like your preview!
P.S. Sorry you have to go back to school already - yick!

2008-08-26T19:06:00.003-05:00

Meet Anastasia Lyn, born August 25, 2008

Her many faces

Peace at last by momma

Congratulation Charlene and Scott! She's a keeper!

2008-08-24T15:34:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I photographed a true southern belle, Katie, and her adoring husband, Doug.

The wedding and reception took place at the Meijer Gardens. Love it! Everything was picturesque and the staff was so kind.

Katie was a little nervous at first about being photographed but she turned out to be a pro.
Look at this woman - she's so beautiful she's begging to be photographed!

Doug first seeing his bride.

Pictures with the moms.

Some detail shots

Around the gardens

Hope you enjoyed your preview!
Thanks for letting me be a part of your big day!

2008-08-21T18:56:00.004-05:00

This my little sister. I call her Queebz.

Before we left for vacation, we planned to do a photo shoot together. She brought along this beautiful dress and got all purty even though just a few hours before we were sitting in lawn chairs reading books with sunscreen on and with dirty feet.

She had a brilliant idea of being photographed while standing in the water wearing this dress. Isn't that awesome?

Great idea Queebz!

Mission accomplished!

Thanks for being my guinea pig! You were an excellent model!

2008-08-19T12:36:00.009-05:00

While on vacation with my family, I staged a mini photo shoot with my 22 month old nephew, Josiah. Isn't he a sweetie?

Look at those intense eyes. He was intrigued with my camera.

He had fun playing on the slide.

Isn't his little tongue cute?

He played on the teeter totter with his brother - again with the tongue sticking out.

Insightful moments on the beach.

And a family photo - what a good looking bunch!

2008-08-12T14:40:00.001-05:00

Just a little note - I am on vacation until Monday, August 18. If you email me, please expect a response upon my return. Thanks for checking out my blog!

2008-08-09T11:13:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I had the opportunity to work with two people who were madly in love.

Rachel was a beautiful bride

The ceremony and reception were held at the Felt Mansion.

Nathan posing by a cool old barn on the grounds.

We found this stone enclosure and had to take a shot in it. Nathan's flowers got a little squished from all of the hugging after the ceremony.

The sun was starting to set and the light was perfect.

Look at this love! Aw!

The end to a perfectly lovely wedding night.

2008-07-29T17:09:00.003-05:00

I was the official photographer for my company's golf outing this year.

It took place at Egypt Valley Country Club.

I had to be there at 7 a.m. so I got a few morning sun shots.

Golf carts ready and waiting for the players.

The grounds at Egypt Valley were immaculate!

Golfing action photos

One of the contest holes - hit the bullseye for a chance to win a $50 gift card.

It was a super fun day and I can't wait for next year!

2008-07-23T17:46:00.003-05:00

This weekend we celebrated my nephew's birthday.

He's really learning to read well.

What a blow!

Here are a few things I spotted outside his house.

2008-07-15T18:32:00.003-05:00

Look who came for a visit in my yard.

Don't you just love the antennae?

He tried to get away but I followed him. I guess they like sweet peas.

Personal

2008-07-10T21:19:00.006-05:00

This morning I only had a few minutes but I quickly snuck outside and took a peek at my garden.

My lilies are starting to bloom.

I have Sweet Peas too!

My green pepper plant has a flower which means soon enough I'll be munching on some fresh produce!

Here's our regular tomato plant...

And our grape tomatoes.

And I still like some good old geranium buds.

Personal

2008-07-04T15:37:00.003-05:00

Here's the squirrel I feed. She likes to beg at the window.
I tempt her with some salted circus peanuts - her favorite!

I only open the window a crack so she has to work a little to grab one.

Then she happily munches away.

Personal

2008-07-01T21:01:00.012-05:00

My husband and I went away for the weekend to

celebrate our 3rd wedding anniversary.
We stopped at a small inland lake on our way home.
Here's the sky when we pulled off.

It only stormed for about 15 minutes.
Then it stopped and the water was very still.

Aren't these shades of green amazing?

I was having fun taking reflection shots.

Here's a little friend I met who jumped in the water and made me scream.

Isn't he cute?

2008-06-24T20:30:00.012-05:00

Here are some of Kat's favorite pictures from Ben & Jackie's weddingThe three flower girls lovin' their dresses!

Little Angels

Isn't this shot dreamy?

Look at those dimples!

The happy couple

Ben & Jackie's first dance - these two are talented!

My weekend

2008-06-23T18:52:00.010-05:00

I have a secret. I really like classic cars!

Isn't this amazing?

Why does no one make cars like this any more?

If this isn't art, I don't know what is.

Meet Jackson

2008-06-18T20:51:00.023-05:00

Jack is six months old. At first he didn't know what to think about me.

But then we made friends.

Isn't he adorable?

I love this shot!

And this one too!

Mom, this grass feels funny.

These hoodie towels are a great invention!

Aren't baby buns the cutest?

Thanks for hanging out with me Jack! You did a great job!

Ben & Jackie

2008-06-16T22:07:00.020-05:00

Ben and Jackie were married on June 13, 2008 in downtown Grand Rapids. The weather was perfect, the couple was adorable, and love was totally in the air.

Here are a few of my favorite shots:

Check out this car! 1927 Rolls Royce Convertible - Sa-weet!

Is this a beautiful bride or what? Check out those eyes!

Have a great honeymoon guys!

A hard rain and my flowers

2008-06-08T19:03:00.006-05:00

Braeden's Photo Shoot

2008-05-30T15:25:00.004-05:00

Emmy's Reception

2008-05-24T15:19:00.000-05:00

Emmy got married out of state but decided to have a Grand Rapids reception for all of her friends and family here. Kat was there to cover the magic of the night.

2008-05-20T21:11:00.005-05:00

New flowers in my yard:

2008-05-14T21:05:00.000-05:00

We've been doing a lot of grilling lately. I had to take pictures of some of our masterpieces. My husband loves these photos. He's such a caveman!

2008-05-11T20:50:00.003-05:00

I have tulips growing that I planted last fall. I love tulips. Actually, if I would have gotten married in the spring instead of the summer, I definitely would have carried tulips!

2008-05-09T05:54:00.008-05:00

My husband bought me flowers last week, for no reason. What a sweetie! Here are some pictures.

Sarah & Tad

2008-04-13T09:48:00.004-05:00

Here are a few pictures from
Sarah & Tad's wedding (4.12.08):

2008-03-16T21:16:00.004-05:00

Welcome to our Blog!

2008-03-16T18:49:00.005-05:00

We have been busy over the last few months developing a website and getting ready for another summer of wedding photography. Our first wedding of 2008 is taking place in less than a month. In the meantime, I hauled out the ol' camera and took some shots of tulips to remind myself that yes, as some point, winter will end.