Beautiful

The longer I work with high school kids through Young Life, the more I realize the lies that kids believe...especially girls. We live in a world yelling at each girl that beauty is only skin deep and that their self worth is what guys find in them. I am currently listening to some online sermons called "Beautiful" and I am struck with a broken heart for my teenage friends. How beautiful they each are in such different ways but I feel they are all (myself included) surrounded by self doubt and insecurities. How I wish I could give them each a photo shoot to show them how beautiful they are...how truly stunning God has made them each.

Yesterday I had the privilege to shoot some senior portraits to two amazing girls. Shelby (the gal with piercings) lived with us earlier this year for a few months. I find myself teary eyed seeing her as a senior and how she's grown. I have known her since she was in 8th grade and have walked through the trenches with her and seen her go through some on her own. It's not easy being in high school these days...I find myself constantly praying for my little Addie for her to be confident in who she was created to be...a beautiful young lady.

The Drake Boys {Morro Bay}

Twins! Oh, what a joy it was seeing Neal and Miles again. These sweet babies are the boys of some dear friends of ours and I literally got teary eyed when I saw them for our shoot. The boys were born a bit early and had some growing to do in the hospital but being 2 months old now, they are healthy, happy and blessed little ones. One thing I love about capturing friends is hearing them interact as a couple and as parents. Sadie and Nick are naturals at their new role and my heart was so content just seeing them "be" parents. God is good. Blessings to these little boys!

Ryan + Jessica's Wedding {Villa de Buena Vista}

A few things are always a joy for me when shooting a wedding...two on the list are working with Jenn Hocker and shooting at Villa de Buena Vista. I just know stepping into the day that it will be beautiful and run smoothly. Ryan and Jessica had both their ceremony and reception at the Villa and the day was amazing! Little touches of detail were throughout the wedding and the guests truly got to celebrate with the couple. A highlight for me was listening to Ryan marvel over how beautiful Jessica looked...I found myself smiling behind the camera. Congratulations to you both and thank you for letting me be a part of your day to capture the memories!

Kimberly's Senior Portraits {Atascadero}

Kimberly is a beautiful girl who is very photogenic. We spent some time together on Tuesday for her senior portraits and had a great time. Naturally it's always a little awkward at first for the person getting their picture taken but Kim jumped right in. When we were talking before we started, she mentioned wanting the sun beam in some of her pictures...I was stoked. This place is perfect for that since it's such a unique site...and her black heels were a perfect contrast.