It’s been a whirlwind of a week because I’ve been out of town for my annual trip to WPPI. It’s been a long 5 days of shooting and learning and tradeshow walking, I can’t wait to share with you how CHARGED up and inspired I am about photography in this moment. But until my brain has a chance to process, I’m taking advantage of the free wifi in the Las Vegas airport on my way out of town to share with you a session I did with Matt and Breanne in Las Vegas! Matt and Breanne are long time friends of ours and we couldn’t be more excited for them to start their family! They’re having a boy!!! I’m so honored that they drove all the way from Ventura for this session. We braved the frigid cold and played in the desert. Breanne is a very talented portrait photographer herself, so I was a bit intimidated walking into this. Best thing about shooting Breanne and Matt = they laugh so easily! And they already know my dumb jokes, still…. they laugh.

Love you guys!

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I’ve always thought that it’s a terribly romantic idea to keep the sex of your baby a surprise. Information is so accessible these days, it’s refreshing to relish in on of life’s most rewarding mysteries. I’m so excited for them I can hardly stand it. I know you are too, so you’ll be glad to hear that as soon as this baby is born we’re doing a newborn session! We met in Redmond and headed to Marymoor Park. Such an awesome place for a Saturday in the sun!

Liz and Ryan are actually one of my all time FAVORITE romantic wedding memories, so I’ll share with you that little tid bit. They met at Oregon State (boooo…. go Ducks! Just kidding, kind of), and were married on a blustery fall day in Oregon 5 years ago. I remember watching in awe as Ryan and Liz swayed back and forth in the middle of the room during their first dance. Ryan is hearing impaired but didn’t miss a beat, and as they stared into each others eyes, Ryan asked Liz what the song was. She glanced up, mouthed “unforgettable” and then laid her head back on his shoulder. It truly was. I’ve never forgotten that moment, or how hot my tears were, or how full my heart was. Liz and Ryan define what a true partnership is.

I’m so excited to see their family grow, and can’t wait to meet this little one. I just love babies. Especially the part where other people have them. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to document this amazing time in your lives!

Ok I know I have a thing for flare, but I can’t help it… we’ve had the MOST amazing weather here in Seattle the last few weeks. Warm, and full of light.

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The Higgins Family, well… they’re like family to me. Amy is the cousin of my bestie Marie, and when I planned a trip tto visit Marie I knew I had to get them in front of my lens. Their adorable daughter Ella is one of the most unique captivating babies I’ve ever seen. I’ve taken a few snapshots of her over the years, from 3 weeks to now, and she remains one of my favorite subjects.

We headed to this beautiful little farm tucked in the hills of Portland, unsure of whether or not we’d be able to shoot there. The property owners weren’t home, but the sheep were! Funny thing about trespassing, somehow it always ends in lots of fun and beautiful images. My motto is “it’s always easier to beg for forgiveness than to ask for permission”. Although I always attempt to ask permission before I kamikaze a location.

Amy and Brennan! Thanks for being outlaws with me, seriously…. ANYTIME!

No babies were actually hurt during the making of this photograph, just a little spill… and some of the most beautiful giant tears ever.

STUNNA! For reals.

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Thank you so much to everyone  who took the time to nominate someone for my free session giveaway. I feel very blessed to be able to pass the gift of photography on to someone who really deserves it. It was SO hard to decide! Your nominations were heartfelt, funny and very thoughtful. Every person you nominated certainly deserves to win.

I couldn’t decide on one, and Billy was no help either. SO I chose 3. Christiana, Kaycie, and Justine check your email. Details are coming your way! Congrats!

If you’re entry didn’t win, don’t worry I have something for you too so check your email.

Much love to you all!

XOXO,
Laura photo courtesty of the lovely Amy McMullen.

Many brides who want to remain true to tradition and wait to see their groom until the actual ceremony, can lose out on precious pictures with their new hubby on their day. There simply isn’t enough time to fit everything in. The pressure of waiting guest, capturing all of the bridal party and family photos can eat up that time you had set aside. Most of the breathtaking images you see of the bride and groom together are either possible because they chose to see themselves before the ceremony in a private session we call a “first look” OR because they opted to use their signature session for this:

A day after session!

Yes! You will get to wear your gown again, BONUS.

I always try to encourage a “first look” during the day of, because the emotions are so true to the day, and likely you’ve had great hair and makeup done. However I can respect the tradition, so this is a fantastic compromise!

Amanda decided to recreate her bouquet for her day after session as well, and I honestly couldn’t tell the difference. I guess I know who’ll I’ll be recruiting for my florals someday!

My FANTASTIC second shooter Tre captured this one below:

See what I mean about the bouquet? I think she should be a floral designer. FO SHO.

This is my favorite shot from the session. Doesn’t Walt look so GQ?