finding inspiration.

Shooting with Jenna + Kyle was a breath of fresh air.  I had just returned from a workshop in Tennessee where we learned mostly about relationships and documenting real connections.  This is something I've always tried to do with my work, but I had an extra kick of inspiration after being surrounded with over 100 like-minded artists for almost a week.  So when we began Jenna + Kyle's shoot, we started with selecting wardrobe that fit 'them' best.  We always encourage our couples to select two outfits, but rarely had we discussed making sure they are a reflection of their personal style... I suppose I assumed this was a given.  Now I'm seeing it's important for me to give that kind of direction, and to let our couples know that their engagement session is more than just 'pretty pictures' for their mom's to brag about how beautiful they are. (Although, they are that too!)  Your engagement photos should reflect who you are, both as individuals and as a couple.  I want your friends to look at your photos and think "Oh my gosh, that's SO them."  I want you to look at them and see the quirky things your love does, like how his eyes close when he laughs hard, or how she cries when you tell her she's everything to you.  I want you to look back at your engagement photos and feel all the love you felt on that day, in that moment.  Marriage is hard, and some days, you might forget what it felt like to be young and in love.  These images should always remind you.

Please continue to watch my journey toward pushing my boundaries photographing human connection and documenting real life and real love. <3

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