Dogs and their people

This was a comical session. It started smoothly and the dogs were listening well, so we took the leashes off. Well, the fuzzy one realized he was free and started running through this boardwalk maze. His "mom" and I stayed put while "dad" and Darin went after him, and the yells and noises we heard were quite funny, and increasingly irritated and exhausted. This is a story I think all dog owners can appreciate. Who hasn't had to run down their block in a bath robe with a squeaky toy, or tried to keep up with a lightening fast dog through the park just waiting for them to stop and smell something? Our dog trainer told us he believes dogs have tails so there is something to grab when they decide to bolt. I've used that trick a time or two. Anyway, it all ended well, with time left to capture some sweet moments.

A Cloudy Day...

...is no match for a sunny disposition! And Little Miss T always brings her own sunshine. Not only did her smile sparkle, her fabulous shoes did too!

Braids and Balloons

Isn't she so adorable with those braids? They seem to really fit the scene. Obviously it was a gorgeous day, made more beautiful by the sweet connections within the family. We had so much fun watching her play with each balloon and then letting them go one by one. She asked where the balloons were going, to which her mom replied "To Santa to tell him what you want for Christmas." Clever...and quick thinking M!

BIG Personality

This little man was BIG on personality and it shows! We had such a fun time in downtown Bradenton, and he was such a trooper. If you're looking for something different for a family "portrait", the urban session is the way to go.

Yummy...CAKE!

Look who's ONE! I can't believe it has been a year since this cutie was sleeping on the Arthur Murray dance floor. She is always a delight to have around at the studio, and all of us have enjoyed watching her grow. HAPPY FIRST BIRTHDAY MISS O!

On a personal note, I want to thank Landra and Sevrin (parents and owners of the studio) for two things: 1- bringing your gift of dance to the area and to me and Darin, and 2- allowing me to photograph your most precious gift. I feel blessed to be a part of it all, and so happy that I can give a little joy back to you...

My assistant

This beautiful girl is my new assistant! If you have a holiday session scheduled you'll probably get to meet her. She is a high school student currently taking a photography class, so I'm excited to have her as my sidekick! We went scouting for new locations a few weeks ago, and these spots are what we found.

Wedding on Sand Key

This was a rare treat for me. Darin and I photographed our friend's wedding on Sand Key. It, of course, stormed earlier in the day so we were crossing our fingers for the ceremony, but it turned out beautiful, and even left us with some wonderful clouds. But the truly beautiful part was witnessing the love and joy these two were feeling. Thank you, E and P, for allowing us to be such an important part of this day. Many, many happy wishes to the two of you!

Sibling Love

These two were so cute together. Big brother L was so kind and helpful with his little sister. It was really nice to watch. I asked if there was anything special they did together, and he responded "we dance", so I captured a sweet series of them dancing, the last image is one of those. How sweet is that?

Oh, and to S (mom) - nice job choosing clothing with texture! It really adds dimension and interest.