Colton Olson - Class of 2014

I have known Colton’s family for a very long time.   His aunt and I have been friends for a very long time and I remember Colton as a baby.  It is amazing how quickly time flies! 

Although I’ve only had Colton as a student for one semester, he has always come across as a young man that carries himself very well. 

Colton is an athlete.  From knowing his family, I know that he was raised with sports in his blood.  With each and every sport that he participates in, he gives 110%.  With or without injury – he is devoted. 

Colton has always had this little smirk that makes you think he is up to something.  I’m not 100% sure which side of his family this comes from, but as a teacher it has kept me on my toes many times.  Thankfully, Colton has always given me nothing but respect inside and outside of the classroom. 

Colton hopes to attend college to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice.  I know that he has the drive to be whatever he wants.  Just remember, Colton, if you ever pull over a minivan and I’m driving – give me a little break! 

Until next time…

Matthew Urbance - Class of 2014

This was my first male senior photo session and the first thought that comes to mind is that males are much more low-maintenance than females.  Matt kept it simple, did what I asked, and by the end of the session he was a natural!

Matthew's mother rode along and she was a key factor in getting Matthew to give me a real smile.  We all know the fake smile - the smile you give when someone tells you to say "cheese."  Matthew was able to provide some sincerity behind the smile.  

One of the reasons I love senior sessions is because they allow me to capture the interests of the individual.  For a newborn it may be a certain blanket.  For a family it may be a certain team jersey.  For seniors it usually consists of what they're active in at school.  For Matthew this is basketball.  You can tell that these shots were where he felt most at home. 

I have no doubts that Matthew will find the path that is right for him after Graduation.  Good luck Matthew…but for now…you have to deal with me and my teaching a little bit longer!  

Until next time...

Melanie Burroughs - The Class of 2014

The last couple of sessions I've done have been Senior Sessions and they're a blast!  This session was the first in which I knew very little about "my subject," but I quickly learned that she carries herself with class and grace.  Introducing Melanie Burroughs - Class of 2014!

Getting to know Melanie, it was clear to me that she is very involved.  We chose to shoot a small representation of the things that keep her busy!  From Volleyball to Dance....

Melanie was a natural when it came to turning on the personality for the camera.  She has a smile that shines for miles and she can turn on the seriousness at the drop of a hat.  It all seemed so natural for her!

From the discussions we had while snapping some shots - it was very clear to me that Melanie is a girl with a good head on her shoulders.  She had manners and poise, and she carried herself very well.  

As a teacher it's always so nice to see a teenager that is polite and well-mannered.  Someone that is driven, yet soft-spoken.  Someone that is unsure of what they want to be in life, but so sure that they want to do good.  Thank you, Melanie!  

Until next time...

The Dodge Family - An Overabundance of Love and Laughs

The Dodge Family - although I've known them since I married Bryan, this shoot allowed me to really get to know their personalities!  With 6 kids under the age of 4 and many adults, you would think that the session was hectic!  Not.  At.  All.  They were all so laid back it made it a blast!

I'll start with Mike and Cindy - the creators of this beautiful family.  Mike was really wanting to show his "Rico Suave" side, but his children talked him out of it.  I did afford him a quick opportunity at the end of the shoot and he enjoyed every minute of it!  He's so lucky to have someone as patient as Cindy to deal with him!

I've introduced Sawyer before, but this time I had the honor of photographing him with his parents.  If you ask me, this is one beautiful family.  Introducing - Shane, Jolene, and Sawyer.  

Then we move on to the family of four...with one on the way!  Greyson and Jackson were all smiles for the camera.  I was also fortunate enough to be able to snap some belly pictures for Jessica.  She carries her belly well and looks great!  Introducing - Jessica, Brian, Greyson, Jackson, and Baby Boy #3!

Now we move on to an absolutely amazing family of 5 - Let's call them Beckett's Bunch!  Stella, Avery, and Beckett all carry their very own personalities - and each one of them is absolutely adorable! Introducing - Jeff, Katrina, Avery, Stella, and Beckett!  

In November, I get to take pictures at the ceremony of Amanda and Janelle and I'm more than excited!  These two have a similar sense of humor to my own and I can't wait to capture their important day!  

All of these beautiful families started with Mike, Cindy, and the Fab 4!  I would say that the Dodge Family is a lucky one!  

From parents, to children, to grandchildren - I hope you've enjoyed getting to know the Dodge Family! Growing a little bit by bit.  

Until next time...