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.

2023 Fall Small Sessions will be held on September 28, 29, 30, and October 1. 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 above. Sessions on September 28 + 29 will take place at Blodgett Peak Open Space and Sessions on September 30 and October 1 will take place at Garden of the Gods. To secure your small session, complete the calendar section and the form collecting your information and you are all set!

When I was asked to lead a mini session on street photography at the 2018 Dear Photographer Elevate + Grow Workshop in Portland, Oregon, I was humbled and honestly beside myself. The group of photographers that frequent the Dear Photographer community are inspiring, uplifting, and downright amazing (just take a look around their Facebook Page and you will see what I mean). I am blessed to be able to take part in such a lovely group. The Elevate + Grow 2019 Workshop that will take place in Austin, Texas is already sold out and I am excited to say that I will be there. This will be my fourth year running with these girls and can I just say how thankful I am to hang my hat in their group.

Laura and her crew (pups too) came and hung out with me after a long time of waiting. We had to reschedule their family session at Ute Valley Park several times due to weather and changing schedules and all the things that come with doing this thing called life. Sometimes that happens, friends. Life gets in the way of doing the things that we want to do, the things we should do, and everything in between.

It has been a while since I’ve blogged anything. If I am being honest, it is because I lack what to say, dear friends. Life has been hard lately. Hard af. I’m in spaces I didn’t think I would be in again. Dealing with changes to life and family. Those things are delicate and figuring them out is like walking a tightrope that has a little too much slack in it when you need it to be solid. So, we do what we do, and we struggle with the end in sight, even if the end is too far to reach out and grasp. It is there. It is always there. Right?

2022 Fall Small Sessions will be held on September 6, 7, and 8. To see available dates and times, check the calendar below. Small Sessions will take place in central Colorado Springs at the location pictured above. You will receive the exact location after booking. To secure your small session, complete the calendar section and the form collecting your information below. Your session fee must be paid in full to officially hold your date and time and an invoice will populate for you after you submit your information.

These two girls. These friends. These magnificent beings. KC and Saylor adventured at Brainard Lake, through the chilly water and silly bugs, to have a mother and daughter session with me. KC wanted a gallery that reflected the nature of her motherhood story. She wanted to feel this time in her life. Really feel it to her core. I’m here for it girl. Thank you for sharing yourself and your story with me. Your bond is one that needs no proof. But, because it’s what I do, here you go babes. Love you to the moon.

Connecting with your photographer is essential: Creating rapport and making the photo session experience time enjoyable helps you relax, resulting in candid images that tell stories. Building a relationship with your photographer prior to your session allows us to get to know each other, get to know each other's personalities, and will enable me to understand your needs more deeply. The more we know about what makes you tick, and what is important to you in your life, the easier it will be for me to authentically document your story. I want you to reflect on your photos and remember your gallery as a whole, not just the images, but your feelings, your soul.

When you have a good connection with your photographer, they will be able to understand and capture the highlights of your life. They should be able to create for you a gallery that reflects your personality, as well as your personality as a family. For me, the perfect gallery captures the physical details of our time together and the emotions and personalities of your children that you know and love. Finding someone you feel comfortable with and can trust to document your authentic love and connection is essential when looking for a photographer.

The Talluto family and I have hung out before. The last time, it was freezing, snowy, and wet, and miserable. This time, it was golden and warm and wooded and all the things for their family session in Black Forest. I love the galleries from both sessions but they are very different. Not only different in location and colors but these kids have grown! In body and in mind. Their family endured long-distance living so the kids could get the best education they each deserved. It was an experience they all loved but they are stoked to be back together as a unit again, especially because the family dog gets to be loved by all now and the kids are excited about that!

Doing what I do, I connect with all different types and styles of families both in size, nature, and inner workings. I mean, that makes sense. Everyone is unique, and I like it that way. I love this part of the “job”. Getting to know the passions and quirks and lives of the people I am spending time with. Personalities are the best to see evolve, especially over the years when photographing families again and again. I love seeing parts of my children in the children I photograph. It makes it feel super personal and for those moments, I feel what they feel it seems. Empathy can be heavy but it can also be the best thing in the world to be able to pick up on feelings and navigate those strange seas with direction.

Where to begin? Dana and Tom, this is what 30 years together looks like, friends. Take a moment and soak it all in. Thirty years of laughter, all-nighters, frustration, blissful times, sad times, downright hellish times. I am sure that you two have seen it all with so much tread worn in your journey. When you connect so deeply that you don’t know how else to feel or think. What a world to live in. A world where you are each other’s anchor. Rooted in the ground so firmly that nothing can disturb the solid foundation.

Maybe those are just wild dreams? What if love isn’t any of that? What if love is simply the choice to keep choosing each day to do what moves you. To keep with the vibe until the vibe isn’t what you want anymore? I know that people say that relationships are hard. Damn fact, friends.

Emily and Chase reached out to me shortly before they began their cross-country van trip from the east coast. They had decided they wanted to forgo the big wedding idea and elope during their time in Colorado while on the trip. When they had first reached out, they were interested in eloping at Garden of the Gods, which is a beautiful place! It is close to me and I visit there often. Emily and I had our video call shortly after she reached out and I could tell they wanted this elopement to be something epic (duh, as you SHOULD!). I suggested that she look at some other locations I have listed in my Location Catalog and she fell in love with Brainard Lake.

I had shot at Brainard Lake several times last year and I loved the space so much, I was excited to be going back again. Emily and Chase needed a sunrise elopement because they had plans that evening and it would work better for their schedule. I had never shot at sunrise at Brainard Lake but damn, I was down for it. From my side, this elopement coverage required some special planning. The location is about 3 hours from my home and sunrise was at 5:30 am that day, you do the math. Sleepover! I turned this sunrise elopement into a travel date with my kids and we had the best time visiting RMNP and sleeping someplace new. Best thing about it? I didn’t have to get up extra early and worry about fighting traffic or missing sunrise because I was less than an hour away in Estes Park. I won that day. For sure.

Ashley and her crew were so beautiful to hang out with during this newborn session to celebrate baby Drew (and Ashley!) in the creek at Castlewood Canyon. If you venture just a little bit farther downstream there is a beautiful part of the creek that is perfect for splashing and exploring, without feeling too overwhelmed with littles in/near the water. Easy enough to get to for this new mama while carrying her newborn and her small boys. This is just the second time I have used this location and I can already tell it will be one I will travel to often in the years to come. I’m okay with that.

Baby Drew was a few weeks old during our time together. Colorado weather kept doing its thing and we had to change our date a few times. By the time we met, Ashely and her crew were in a beautiful groove with their new family member. The dance of being a new parent is one I think we quickly forget. It is a mesmerizing flow of love and trust, sacrifice and selflessness, empathy and humility. It is a gift to be able to watch families grow and transform from their small nests, to place roots like trees in the ground and become sturdy forms, strong in the winds of the world. Growing those little babes into strong, just, tolerant people is hard work. Ashley and Bryan you guys are doing it right.