I just love seeing the Nelson’s. They are some of my very favorite people. I have been blessed to be able to capture these milestones for their family over the years.










I just love seeing the Nelson’s. They are some of my very favorite people. I have been blessed to be able to capture these milestones for their family over the years.










Having the boys together for the summer was a joy, and being around family was exactly what Lindsey needed. Her husband is a professional hockey player and during his off season they escape from Texas and come up to Minnesota. Kelley was happy for her to be back as well. The boys played so well together and I had the great privilege of photographing two of the families together doing exactly what they all enjoy doing… playing! 





When Eliel called and asked for a family portrait of her extended family from Ethopia, I was thrilled. Being that they only get to see each other once every three years, it was an honor and a joy to be able to capture them together! (They even let me in on a traditional coffee ceremony together! Why can’t we have more of those here??)










What a gorgeous family and beautiful pictures!
This is absolutely stunning! What a fun shoot!
These are beautiful, Karen! Well done!
Yet another call on another day. It was tiring, wearing and extremely emotional. Amanda had just gotten off the phone with her adoption agency, which had told her that her daughter was not cleared to come home yet through the American embassy , but her son was. “When would these 2 children ever be theirs?” It had been a painful 3 years of waiting. Almost 6 months ago they had received word that they had been placed with their children and were able to fly across the world to meet them. Coming home was painful and waiting was especially hard, and so was the paperwork that came with the trial. The month they waited was well worth it and within 6 weeks of the Embassy saying that Violet and Spencer were not yet theirs, they walked off a plane in Minneapolis holding the 2 babies they had been waiting for for so long. Finally, the family of 5 was complete.
I was able to photograph their homecoming to the airport which was an emotional one for me.
Big sister Addie welcoming her brother and sister home
Finally together




You can read more about Amanda’s amazing journey on her blog HERE. Much love to you McAlpines, I are so blessed by your story.
An almost 2 year old, a 9 month old and a husband that travels 5 out of the 7 days of the week, you’d think this mom would be exhausted by the end of the week. But Katie is just the opposite; kind, sweet and patient with her sweet family. She and Troy are those kind of people your just like being around. I was able to do their family photos last year, and this year, I got to meet their newest little one! We had a great time exploring and running and jumping and playing and more exploring. This is the result!







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!!
Cute! What a beautiful family. I love the one of the little boy by himself with the hat on.