Jon and Kealy {anticipation}

I met Jon several years ago at my other *full-time* job (in case you were not aware, I work full time in occupational therapy).  Since then, I have gotten to know Jon and, thru our conversations, his wife, Kealy.  When he told me they were expecting their first child, I could not have been more happy for them!  I was also excited to finally get a chance to meet the love of his life, Kealy, who he talks about so endearingly.  Sorry, Jon, I am going to ruin your "macho man" front.  :P   A few weeks ago, I was invited to photograph their family in the anticipation of the arrival of their little one.  I always get a little nervous (good nervous, probably more anxious) going into photo sessions, but that nervousness quickly subsided due to Kealy and Jon's fun, chatty, kind personalities.  We had a blast at this session and they played along with whatever idea I had.  Even if it met that Jon had to move forward-backward-forward-backward until he was just right for a shot (and, I may have thrown in a few "forward-backwards" just for fun.  :)  Thank you both so much for inviting me into your home and for sharing this special moment with you!  Can't wait to meet your little one in a few weeks!

Did I mention they went along with all my ideas, even the cheesy ones?  :)

It was really important to them to get a couple photos with their *first baby* Tyson.  He was quite the model!

Natalie and Brian Sneak Peak...

luciano {newborn}

I am pleased to present Luciano, one of the most handsome newborn fellas I have ever had the opportunity to photograph AND Notre Dame's biggest fan.  This little guy slept like a rock for most of his session and was quite cuddly to hold between shots.  I probably could have stayed there all day cuddling and cooing with him!  Well, maybe not all day--mom and dad may have issues with a strange girl sitting on their couch all day with their new baby.  :)  Thank you for letting me into your home to share your joy with you! 

{keaton} littlest farmer

"I had rather be on my farm than be emperor of the world"
- George Washington

 Early one morning, shortly after the sun rose and there was still a hint of dew on the ground, I met up with Keaton.  His dad is a farmer, his dad's dad is a farmer, his dad's dad's dad is a farmer...you get the picture.  Therefore, they live on a farm. :)  According to his mom, the farm is one of Keaton's favorite places to play and explore.  Boy-oh-boy, did we explore during our session!  This kiddo is a runner and he wanted to show me EVERYTHING.  We ran up and down dirt hills and played on the tractors.  He showed me the bean fields, dad's shop, the grain silos, the sunflowers, and the mud puddles.  Then, he showed me everything again.  If I only had half of his energy...

Keaton will be turning two in September and it is unsure how much longer he will have his stunning, blond hair (the same hair his dad sported when he was toddler age).  I wish my my camera had the ability to capture the sound of his laugh as well as it captures his blondness.  If I could record his laugh and sell it, I would be a millionaire.  You can't help but giggle and grin ear-to-ear at the sound of his happiness!  Keaton, please let me come back again someday soon and play!

Olivia {3 months old)

"A baby will make love stronger, days shorter, nights longer, bankroll smaller, home happier, clothes shabbier, the past forgotten, and the future worth living for"

 Remember Olivia from her newborn session?  Well, she is now three months old!  Already!  And, she is as expressive and animated as anticipated for this session.  She wasn't always in the best mood during the time I spent photographing her, but all it took was her mommy's sway or her daddy's hush-hush and comfy chest to calm her right down.  Actually, Olivia may be the first baby I have ever met that loves Jack Johnson music.  If mommy and daddy's antics weren't successful, they just played a little JJ to put her at ease.  Amazing.  :)  The first set of photos are my favorite.  I just love how expressive babies are at this age!

Remember how I said she wasn't very happy with me at times?  Here is the proof.  :)

Doesn't she have the most amazing eyes??

This smile is for JJ!  First song on the playlist--"Upside Down."