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Shannon and I actually grew up together. Her bis sister was one of my very best childhood friends, so we got a lot of time together as well. I loved seeing their family last year and when she wanted to schedule a summer session I was thrilled to see her family again. We headed out to one of my favorite locations, and walked until the sun was going down, and the kids were ready for bed. It was a wonderful night, and great to see them again!
I was met by Pete and Angie with a big hug and kiss. I would love to call this family my own, they feel like realities, but they are very dear friends. I have known the Peters family for quite some time. Kirsten and I graduated from college together, and I was able to shoot her and Josh’s wedding almost 7 years ago. Shannon and Kieth were married about 3 years ago and her family flew Kevin and I out to New York to shoot their beautiful March wedding. This past weekend they were all together in the Cities and we set up a time the entire family to be photographed. They were all troopers in the humidity and heat, and I have to say I was sad to see them go…especially because Pete carried my bag around the entire shoot!
So we all have them, even photographers. I just get to show you my good stuff, but here are some of the things that I deal with on a regular shoot.
1) Screaming babies. Yes, they all do it, and they are so darn cute. So mommies, if I am ever photographing your newest addition, don’t feel bad. It pretty much happens at every newborn session and I do like to take their photo…even if it is for your blackmailing purposes when they are 15!
2) Non-cooperative pets or kids. In the past few years of having my own kids, I have learned that dogs are much like them. All you need is some kind of distraction, and you have their attention again…. even if it takes photographing their stuffed monkey.
3) Props not working the way you intended. On a few engagement shoots I thought it would be fun to incorporate some balloons…. um probably not the best idea when the wind was 20!! miles an hour. I should have thought about that before the shoot, oh well!
4) Fish eye mistakes. Yes these are my children and I take full responsibility in photographing them this way. We were having such a great time with this lens. I think I laughed until I cried. But in all seriousness, I would never recommend photographing someone this close, unless you are wanting them to look like they just came from the circus.
5) Clients… You will get a work out if you choose me to be your photographer. The top shot was the goal I was wanting to achieve, but it took about 3-4 tries of Wade jumping in the air to get the desired look.
6) The bolting kid. Yes, I do get a work out as well. Here is the series of a 2 year old. Here one minute, gone the next.
Going..Going….Gone!
7) The “I’m all done” phrase. As the photographer, I’ve gotta be fast, especially when this phrase comes out, or a baby will be falling! (i think his parents had this phrase memorized because they were ready to catch the baby before he fell! I love it!)
8) Exhausted baby. Here is where we stop the shoot and bring out the puffs, or bottle, or call it a day!
After all the screaming, crying, laughing, running and walking, it is all worth it to get the desired photo for the client. I love what I do, and have a great time doing it!
Have a great weekend!
When I sat down to write this post, it took me for.ev.er to think of what I would say. How do you put into writing what your heart feels toward a person, or family? I guess that is what writers do which is why I am a photographer and not a writer!
Let me preface this post and say that this family is very near and dear to my heart.
They showed up at a picnic, and immediately I was drawn to them. There was a demeanor of simplicity they displayed. Not on purpose, but it was just who they were. I knew that they were different, and I wanted to get to know them. As the weeks progressed and I was able to actually introduce myself, I learned that they were from Quebec. The mother, Marie, barley knew English, but strove to conquer it. I was swept away in her determination. She did learn it and is completely fluent now (although as she reads this is shaking her head in total disagreement!)
In the 2 years that I was blessed to know this beautiful family, they faithfully watched our children, made us meals, mentored my husband and I, prayed with us and for us. When they announced that they were moving back to Canada, it was not a huge surprise, but it still saddened our family. I know they were sent as a gift to us for a short time to encourage us and teach us. It is amazing how God ordains exactly what we need and when we need it. I look forward to the day when we will be together again whether it be in this life or the next.
One other thing that I loved about this family was how musically gifted they all are. They each play an instrument…and they are GOOD!
And how they will forever be etched in my mind…
May the Lord bless you as you go.
Much love to you, you will be missed.
STUNNING!
Often when talking to clients, I am asked: “Where would you recommend we do the shoot?” Although there are so many places in the Twin Cities to photograph, here are 3 of my favorites and why.
1) Mill City/ Stone Arch Bridge area. You want urban, you got it. You want park, its here too. You want unique, let’s find it! I have to say that this is one of the MOST popular ares in the Cities to shoot at. Every time I am down in the area, I kid you not, there is at least one other professional down there with a family, senior or wedding party. And there is good reason for it… there are so many places to shoot in all within walking distance.
2) Loring Park/ Sculpture Gardens/ Walker. Another place that has so many different areas all within walking distance. Every time I go, I try to find another location to take my clients to, and I have not been disappointed yet. It has an artsy feel, and there is an indoor conservatory and a the General Mills Hall in the Walker to go in just in case there is rain. Plus, this location is about 10 minutes from my house. LOVE it!
3) Your home. When a child is in his/ her home environment they are just so much easier to photograph. They want to show you their toys and their room and the cute little dress or animal that grandma just bought them. Plus trying to get out the door keeping everyone clean and neat for photos is sometimes very difficult (we have 3; been there, done that ). Couples are sweet and beautiful in the space that they created and more of their personality shines through. Basically it is YOU! and that is what I love photographing.
I’d love to do a shoot for you in one of these locations. Let me know, especially while the Fall sale is going on!
Katie Nick’s June wedding at Seven Vines Vineyard was the perfect blend of timeless elegance and joyful celebration. From the classic black-and-white wedding party attire to the dreamy golden hour portraits among the vines, every detail felt effortlessly sophisticated.
Surrounded by their favorite people and endless love, these two kicked off married life in the most beautiful way.
Bride:: @katie_koplien
Groom:: @nickl3w21
Venue:: @7vinesvineyard
Hair:: @sunbearspasalon
MUA:: @sunbearspasalon
Caterer:: @creativecateringbymollyllc
Florist:: @floreinspired
Ice cream truck:: @lildippersoftserve
Wedding Dress:: @casablancabridal
Wedding Dress Shop:: @bellabridalbtq
Rings:: @weddingdaydiamonds
Menswear:: @menswearhouse
Bridesmaid Dresses:: @azazieofficial
Stationary:: @theknot
Videography:: @alexandrafilms_
Photography:: @federphotography
Baby Mary has arrived and is already so deeply loved by Nicole and Aaron.
I’ve had the true honor of photographing this family since their oldest was born over 16 years ago, and watching their story grow through each new season has been something really special. From newborn snuggles to busy, full family life being invited back again and again is something I never take for granted.
This family is deeply rooted in the world of forage, county fairs, and raising and showing lambs and sheep, so it only felt fitting to include a little lamb hat for baby Mary’s first photos. A small nod to a big part of their life and traditions.
Welcome to the world, sweet girl
Spring soirée perfection.
Rob and Sarah’s wedding day was a beautiful blend of faith, family, and thoughtful design. Inspired by Monet’s garden paintings, their celebration was filled with soft spring colors, meaningful heirlooms, and intentional details at every turn.
After a joyful ceremony at Eagle Brook Church, surrounded by family and friends, they celebrated the night away at Silverwood Park with beautiful florals, heartfelt speeches, lakeside portraits, and dancing.
One of my favorite details? Sarah changed into her mother’s wedding dress for the reception, while flowers made from that same gown were sewn into her veil.
Congratulations, Rob and Sarah!
Ceremony:: @eaglebrookchurch
Venue:: @silverwoodpark
Planner:: @eventsbyjess
Caterer: @chefjeffmpls
Photographer::@federphotography
Florist:: @malanasophiafloral & @merci_garden
DJ:: Will @midwestsounddj
MUA:: @thebeautycollectivellc
Her Ring:: @princessbridediamonds
His Ring:: @embellirgems
Jewelry:: @helzbergdiamonds
Suit:: @stateandliberty
Baker:: @siftglutenfree
Linens:: @festivitiesmn
Video:: @gadescreativefilms
Wedding Shop:: @flutterbridalco
Wedding Designer:: @colbyjohnbridal
Welcome, to the world sweet Julia! It was such a blessing to see Travis, Marisa, and Jalen again! What joy Julia has brought to this family! Congratulations!!
Based in the Twin Cities area and available for travel worldwide.
