Some families become more than just clients, they become part of my journey, just as I become part of theirs. I’ve had the absolute honor of photographing Laura and David through so many of life’s sweetest seasons, from their first maternity session with Liv to her newborn days, and now, as they prepare to welcome their baby boy. This golden, sun-soaked session in the Colorado mountains was a celebration of love, growth, and the beautiful transitions of family life.

Documenting families as they evolve is one of the greatest joys of my work. There’s something magical about capturing not just the milestones, but the quiet, in-between moments, the way a big sister waits with excitement, the way two parents hold each other with the deep knowing of what’s to come. I can’t wait to step into their home again soon for their newborn session, capturing the next chapter in their story.

Lizette and Alex’s wedding at Younger Ranch in Colorado Springs was a day full of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Surrounded by stunning mountain views and the breathtaking beauty of Pikes Peak, their celebration was a perfect reflection of who they are, joyful, full of life, and deeply connected. From their intimate ceremony to the late-night NYC-style pizza and fireworks sendoff, every detail was carefully planned to create a memorable experience for their loved ones who traveled from California to be with them.

As a Colorado wedding photographer, it was an absolute dream to capture this beautiful couple’s story in such a picturesque location. The venue, with its rustic charm and sweeping views, provided the perfect backdrop for Lizette and Alex’s day. Every moment was filled with emotion, and it was a true honor to be part of their journey. Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, Younger Ranch offers an unforgettable setting for your wedding day, and I’d love to help tell your unique love story here too.

Join me as I take you behind the lens of a Colorado concert photographer capturing the magic of John Craigie’s performance at The Lariat in Buena Vista. This intimate venue was the perfect setting for John’s soulful storytelling, where his music resonated in ways that only live performances can. Through my lens, I share not only the energy of the night but also the journey that led to this unforgettable moment, from rafting on the Tuolumne River to a secret music performance in an old mining shaft.

As a photographer, I find inspiration in every corner of life, and John’s music has been a guiding force in my creative journey. This post celebrates how concert photography fuels my passion and keeps my creative cup full, while also offering insight into how live music and storytelling through photography are so deeply connected. If you’re passionate about music, adventure, and photography, come along for the ride and experience these moments through my eyes.

Dubsado is turning 10, and they’re celebrating with a massive sale! For a limited time, you can save 60% on your first year with Dubsado, yes, you read that right! With the code “heyo,” you can take advantage of this amazing deal and streamline your creative business like never before. From automating workflows to managing projects and client communication, Dubsado has everything you need to keep your business running smoothly and efficiently.

I’ve been using Dubsado for years, and it has truly transformed the way I handle the backend of my business. If you’re a photographer, designer, or any type of creative business owner, this tool will help you save time, reduce stress, and make sure no detail falls through the cracks. Don’t miss out, this offer ends soon!

Some sessions leave a permanent imprint on my soul, and Caitlin’s was one of them. After returning from life-changing journeys in the Amazon and California, I was met with a request that touched my heart in ways I could never have anticipated. Caitlin was coming to Crested Butte to honor her late husband, Jaimie, and the life they had built together. With her dog, Ruger, by her side and mementos of Jaimie’s love surrounding her, she entrusted me to capture these sacred, raw moments. What started as a simple session became something far deeper—a journey through love, loss, and remembrance. To witness Caitlin’s connection to Jaimie and Ruger was an honor, and the images we created became a lasting tribute to their bond. Click through to read the full story, and see how love and loss can transform into a powerful, timeless memory.

Jenn and Tim traveled from Texas to say “I do” in the charming mountain town of Manitou Springs. They chose Craftwood Peak by Wedgewood Weddings as the perfect backdrop for their intimate winter wedding. Their day was filled with heartfelt moments, from a quiet first look with breathtaking views of Pikes Peak to a cozy reception still twinkling with holiday lights.

Surrounded by their closest friends and family, including many of the kids and families Tim has coached over the years, their wedding was more than just a celebration; it was a gathering of the people who’ve shaped their story. With laughter filling the air, toasts that brought tears and joy, and a dance floor moment (shoutout to Jenn’s uncle for owning it!), this wedding was the perfect way to wrap up 2024.

Step inside Rose of the West Tattoo, a vibrant and eclectic studio in Downtown Colorado Springs, where artistry and passion come together. In this branding session, I captured the creative energy of Lauren and her talented team during their Friday the 13th event. From one-of-a-kind tattoos to bold traditional flash art, every inch of this studio tells a story of individuality and artistic expression. Dive into the heart of Rose of the West and discover why this tattoo studio is a true gem in Colorado Springs.

Jess and Philip’s Colorado winter wedding at Pinecrest Weddings & Event Center was a heartfelt celebration just days before Christmas. With family and friends traveling from across the world, their love story, rooted in long-distance devotion, unfolded beautifully against the stunning Colorado mountain backdrop. From an intimate first look to golden-hour portraits near Palmer Lake, every moment was filled with warmth and connection. Their reception was a joyful celebration, complete with heartfelt conversations and an unforgettable dance floor. Step into this romantic Colorado wedding!

Friends, grab a cup of hot chocolate (or a fattie, no judgment here) because today, I’m getting a little sappy. Wild Prairie Photography is celebrating TEN years in business and SIX years of doing this crazy photographer thang full time! Being your go-to Colorado Family Photographer and capturing life’s magic in Colorado Springs and beyond has been a dream come true. Honestly, it feels surreal to even type those numbers out. I mean, how did we get here? Oh yeah, it was you, boo. It was you reaching out to have that sweet love you and your crew share with each other documented in the most tangible ways. It was you who kept coming back, year after year, allowing me the joy of watching your family grow in age and in number. It was always you.

This milestone is as much yours as it is mine. You’ve trusted me to capture your messy, real, laugh-till-your-face-hurts kind of love and the fleeting moments that make your hearts skip a beat. Whether we’ve frolicked in golden fields at sunset, braved the cold in the foothills (some of you KNOW this feeling, like, to your bones), or adventured to epic destinations, every single one of you has made my wildest dreams come true. Cue the ugly crying (but in the pretty lighting, of course). So…

Family, friends, and the people who have truly been with you through thick and thin, they’re the ones who leave the most lasting impact. And for me, this incredible family has been all that and more. I’ve had the privilege of knowing them for years, watching their beautiful journey unfold, and documenting their milestones through my lens.

It feels like just yesterday when I photographed Cayden for his first birthday, and now, here I am, capturing moments with not one, not two, but three of their wonderful children: Cayden, Rylen, and Parker. Watching them grow up has been such an honor, and it’s not just the kids I’ve seen grow, it’s the love between mom and dad, and their unwavering support for me that has blossomed into something truly special.

The bond we share goes beyond photography; it's about real life, real connections, and real love. It’s also about tattoos. Yes, you heard that right! This amazing dad has been the talented artist behind the ink on my arms, a gift that’s tied our families even closer. Every session we do feels like we’re capturing more than just photos; it feels like we're documenting pieces of my own story intertwined with theirs.

Some weddings just hit different, and Jake and Chelsea’s magical day at the Walker Homestead in Iowa City was one of those. Nestled in the rolling hills of Iowa, the Walker Homestead is a working farm and event venue that blends rustic charm with modern elegance. With it’s picturesque vineyards, open fields, and inviting barn, it’s a slice of heaven perfect for a love story like theirs.

But this wasn’t just any wedding for me, it was personal. Jake wasn’t just the groom; he was my former boss and one of the people who made this photography business of mine possible. Years ago, Jake gave me the space to dream and the support to build my craft. His thoughtful encouragement paved the way for me to turn this passion into a full-time gig, and let me tell you, getting to be the one to document the biggest day of his life? That was an honor I won’t soon forget.

Jake’s thoughtfulness and belief in others aren’t just things I’ve seen firsthand, they’re qualities Chelsea loves deeply about him, too. They’re both public servants through and through, the kind of people who won’t just hand you the world but will show you how to build it yourself. That mindset defines them and their relationship, and it was woven beautifully into their day.

Flying from Colorado Springs to Iowa for this wedding felt like coming full circle. Watching Jake stand at the altar waiting for Chelsea was a surreal moment, this man who once gave me the freedom to chase my dreams was now chasing his own, marrying the love of his life. And when Chelsea walked down the aisle, glowing with all the confidence and grace in the world, it was clear these two were made for each other.

Brooke and James chose to have their ultra-private Elopement ceremony with each other in Twin Lakes, Colorado. I am filled with gratitude I was able to tag along and photograph their first looks, exchanging of vows, and all the other moments that make an elopement one for the heart. These two put thoughtful effort into the details of their special time together. From their vow books to James’ custom leather suspenders, they really did create magic in the mountains with me.

This was the second elopement that I had photographed in Twin Lakes but this location was new and the previous elopement was at sunrise, though the same time of year. New for me equals excitement and renewed creative spirit! I was in it for everything I had and I do think it shows. The colors of fall were showing off and the day was unusually warm and ended with the most amazing sunset the couple had seen since they arrived in Colorado a few days earlier. They had come to Colorado on a special trip to get married and were staying near Como at a beautiful Airbnb in the cliffs.

Alice, a holistic therapist who works with clients in Colorado, Kansas, and California, reached out to me for a branding session to show her potential clients who she authentically is while they are trying to decide if they want to work with her. Alice wanted images that reflected her soul at its base to share on her website and social media. Branding sessions are perfect for these types of needs and Alice showed up in her fullest self and together, we made magic in the creek at Castlewood Canyon just outside of Denver, Colorado.

When booking her time with me, Alice mentioned that she wanted to be sure to include the elements in her images because they are important to her process as a holistic therapist. When I book with a new client, I love to schedule a video call with them to talk over their photography needs in detail and to ensure that I understand their vision and what they want to walk away from our time together. Together, we decided how she would represent each element: earth, air, water, fire, and, we made a plan. She brought crystals, palo santo, and sage with her and we used the creek and wind to pull the rest of the elements together.

I get to see Candice and her family about once a year, when we do a new family session for them, usually in the fall. Candice is a photographer in Colorado Springs too, you can find her work on her page here. This woman is amazing, she always hypes me up and is kind in her words and actions. I am thankful that we get to be part of the same tribe. Each year, I have the distinct privilege of documenting her children as they blossom and develop into their unique selves, and it’s deeply rewarding to witness both their growth and the continual deepening of the friendship with Candice over time.

Utilizing a location that I hadn’t used much and that Candice frequently incorporated into her artistic work allowed me to see it from a fresh and inspiring perspective, which not only sparked my creativity but also infused the entire session with vibrant energy. The delightful blend of familiar faces in a new and exciting setting made for a memorable evening with the sunset at Castlewood Canyon, and I genuinely look forward to seeing how this beautiful location continues to evolve. The creativity that flows when the energy is just right can’t be manufactured and this was one of those nights when it was all sparkly and gold.

Carmen and her crew traveled to the Rocky Mountains for a family session with me where they announced their pregnancy with their sons. We went to one of my favorite spots, Brainard Lake, and we adventured in the forest, exploring all the moss covered everything. Walking on logs to show off how well they can balance, the boys really sunk into time with their parents and their parents got to be present with them too. Gifts all around, friends.

These kiddos (and their mom and dad) were so fun to hang with. They were also already practicing at being big big brothers by taking turns carrying a bag and flowers their family brought to the session. The boys definitely wanted to help and it was pretty sweet. As we made our way through the forest, along the rushing creek, the boys excitedly talked with me about their lives and were eager to show off their balancing and rock finding skills. To see them light up sharing things that were important to the is super special and I am thankful I got to be there for it.

2024 Fall Small Sessions will be held on September 24 + 26 (Garden of the Gods)

and October 2, 3, 22 + 23 (Ute Valley Park)

in the evenings during the time of lovely light.

Small Sessions will take place in central Colorado Springs at the locations pictured above. Sessions on September 24 + 26 will take place at the location in the top 9 images above (Garden of the Gods), while sessions on October 2 + 3 will be held at the location featured in the bottom 9 images (Ute Valley Park).

These friends right here, they are the ones who embrace the adventure, the mess, and the magic of it all. This was our second rendezvous and this time, we had a mountain view! When they heard about a new spot I wanted to try nestled in the Rocky Mountains, complete with a river and a dreamy shoreline, they were all in. The boys, all three of them bursting with energy, couldn't wait to dive into the adventure we had during their Dream Stream Colorado Family Session.

The kind humans make my job as a Colorado Family Photographer an absolute joy. They’ve got this infectious enthusiasm, a love for trying something new, and an amazing ability to be in the moment. We started our session at the river's edge, where the boys immediately took to skipping stones and exploring the shore. Their laughter was the soundtrack to our evening, pure bliss.

As a Rocky Mountain Family Photographer, I’m always on the lookout for locations that offer a bit of everything, and this spot did not disappoint. The Dream Stream area is nothing short of magical, with sweeping mountain views, lush greenery, and a river that runs some pretty impressive fish. It’s a photographer’s dream, and getting to share it with these babes made it even more special.

I was asked by Chelsea to photograph one of the biggest days of her and her husband Alec’s life, the adoption of their son Kai. We met at the El Paso County, Colorado court house and I photographed their adoption. We also met at Red Rock Canyon Open Space, in the evening, for a family session with everyone around.

This day was nothing short of the most EVERYTHING day you can image, a day where tears flowed, hearts swelled, and lives were changed forever. This journey wasn’t a sprint; it was a marathon filled with ups, downs, and everything in between.

Kai came into their lives when he was just five months old. From the moment they laid eyes on him, they knew he was their son. Fast forward to now, Kai is two and the day had finally come to make it official. Adoption day.

I am so lucky to have been able to visit with this family during their in home newborn session in Colorado Springs, Colorado. As I sit here, surrounded by the breathtaking vistas of Colorado, I find myself immersed in the awe-inspiring journey of motherhood, not just my own, but the journey of a remarkable client who recently welcomed a precious addition to her family. Today, I want to share a glimpse into her extraordinary chapter of life and how it has inspired my work as a photographer.

Welcoming a new life into the world is a momentous occasion, filled with overwhelming love and boundless joy. For this lovely mama, the journey into motherhood has been a tapestry of emotions, each moment more precious than the last. From the first flutter of life in her belly to the tender first cries of her newborn, she has experienced a depth of love that knows no bounds.

2024 Summer Small Sessions will be held on June 5, 6, 7, 8. To see available dates and times, check the calendar at the link in the blog post. Small Sessions will take place in central Colorado Springs at the locations pictured in this blog. Sessions on June 5 + 6 will take place at Ute Valley Park and Sessions on June 7 + 8 will take place at Garden of the Gods. To secure your small session, complete the calendar section and the form collecting your information. I will set up your client portal for you and get you offically booked into your time and date.