Stacey Nicole Photography

Wedding: Rolando and Samantha

2012-01-18T21:02:00.000-08:00

Rolando and Samantha are each incredibly sweet, fun people- but together they are even more incredibly sweet and fun! Having the opportunity to shoot their wedding was such a blessing. I enjoyed every bit of it. These two have been together for years, so it was really fun to be able to be there to witness them finally come together in marriage. Sam and Ro, I wish you both the best and I can't wait to see what the Lord has in store for your lives.

The groom is a break dancer, so he and his grooms men showed off some moves before the ceremony. They showed their moves off after the ceremony as well but there are more pictures to tell that story!

I think Sam's dad, Eddy might be one of the most tenderhearted Father of the Bride I have seen. To watch him interact with all his daughters (they were all in the wedding) was truly remarkable.

The details were all so adorable and classy. You could tell there was a lot of love and time that went into all the decor at the reception.

Something about this moment was so sweet to me. I really enjoyed watching the two of them together.

These two almost stole the show. After the guys started break dancing at the end of the reception, this little guy followed suit for the rest of the night.

Be sure to check out Nicole Jenkins, my second shooter for the night. She really did an amazing job, thanks Nicole!

A Month With Us: Ok, maybe not!

2011-09-06T22:21:00.000-07:00

Alright... alright... alright... so big fatty fail on my goal to blog every day... I KNOW! I was feeling a little bummed that I didn't exactly follow through with what I had started out with. This is not a super common thing for me, I am not a flake, but sometimes when it comes to things like this, I don't follow through... blah. However, after I had my little pity party, I realized something. I may not have blogged everyday, or even come close to it but I DID shoot nearly every day (I think I only missed 3 days) and I blogged more in a month than I ever have before. I didn't make my goal, but I did better than I have done in the past. I know this is a little step forward, but it is a step- and that was the whole point of my goal. Moving forward is something that I really desire in my business right now... even if it is really tiny baby steps.

Anyhow, I will at least catch you all up on the second half of the month...

The week before Christian's birthday, we drove to the High Desert to visit family and some of our closest friends. Christian's car has been giving us a little trouble, so first stop was my dad's garage. All fixed thanks to the guys!

While the boys worked and fixed things, my mom and I decided to join them in the garage. It was really hot, but my mom has been begging me to cut her hair (I think I have only done it twice now since getting licensed... oops!), so we tried to ignore the sweat and snipped away.

This is my parent's dog, Mason. I like him a lot. He didn't like my camera quire as much. This was only a moment before he ran at it, slobbering tongue in tow.

After we left my parents, we headed to Christian's parents for a little birthday celebration. This is my Dad-in-Law scoping out the table scape. With seafood pasta, salad, and fresh bread, there was VERY little to complain about. Yum!

The next morning at church, Christian wrestled the camera from me and snapped the next few.

For his birthday party with my family, he was required to open presents IN FRONT OF EVERYONE! You would have thought he was being tortured.

My brother actually took this of my cousin's baby girl, Alexia. I just want to squeeze her. She is my stand in niece until I get a real one. But I like her so much I may just keep her as one permanently!

Christian's first day of school! I know... I am a dweeb and embarrassment, but I wanted this picture and I got it.

Later that week, Christian and I went to support our alma mater's annual Master's Cup. The dorm we lived in, Hotchkiss, is full of tradition, which I love. This was their grand entrance... they won.

AND the moment you have all been waiting for... or at the least the one I have been waiting for. One of the biggest reasons I have been MIA on the blog is because I surprised Christian with a kitten for his birthday. As cute as this little guy is, he is a lot of work. He was only 5 weeks old when I rescued him from the shelter, so we had our hands full! His name is Warfield and I love him! He brings an awful lot of entertainment to our lives.

Please excuse these first few pictures, he was a little energetic and it was getting dark. This was on his first day home with us. He was so tiny- only weighed one and a half pounds!

This is his favorite spot in the house. He will sit there for hours and usually falls asleep after a while.

This is one week after we brought our little monster home. He is almost doubled in size, weight AND energy.
This is his favorite of my chores. By the time I get around to folding them, he has usually burrowed halfway to the bottom.

One more of Christian. One of my favorite things about being married is having a date for dinner every night.

Ok then! If you made it all the way through this post, I commend you! I know it was forever long, but I didn't want to leave my goal completely hanging. Now it is wrapped up and my new goal is to continue shooting every day and blog as often as a husband, kitten, housework and school will let me!

Happy Tuesday!

A Month With Us: Days 13, 14, 15 and 16

2011-08-20T22:25:00.000-07:00

Goodness it has been a really busy week! The funny thing is that a busy week means lots of good stuff to post BUT no time to post it. Ironic. Saturday was a really fun day. My mom was here all day and I was so blessed by the fun and fellowship with her. We went shopping all day and really enjoyed our time. I was excited because I got to use some gift cards I had been waiting to spend forever. The fantastic thing about them is you get to shop and get things and then NO SHOPPERS GUILT! That is amazing : ) After she drove home, Christian and I drove to Pasadena for an evening out on the town with two very dear friends of ours, Eric and Peter.

First time we have dressed up for an outing in a while... except for church of course.

MY NEW SHOES! Courtesy of my gift card.... I love them!

I love city life. The music. The lights. The grime and grit. The liveliness.

This is our friend Eric. He is as deep of a thinker as he looks. And I may steal his glasses one day.


Cheesecake. That is all I have to say.

Sunday I woke up sick. I had an icky sore throat and body aches and mirgrane... blah. Needless to say, I only dragged myself out of bed to make us hot dogs for dinner. It was a nasty day. Christian was in charge of the camera that day. That means there were more pictures of me than usual.

Not feeling standing in the kitchen cooking. I lasted about five minutes. And was grouchy the whole time.

Monday I was feeling MUCH better. I made my Mama's tacos for dinner. Unfortunately they were not as good as hers. Fortunately they were not too bad. Pretty tasty.

I then procedeed to burn the cookies. I blamed it on my sickness the day before. Christian still ate every single one of them. He is far too nice and I love him for it.

How my kitchen looks after a night of cooking.

Tuesday night was, as you can see, Salmon and Rice night. I always have fun with this meal since it is one of my favorites. I couldn't decided between garlic and lemon pepper and spice so we did as little of both.

My husband... I never tire of calling him that. It is still very surreal to me. I love him : )

Think the bananas are almost ready to be made into bread?! I think so...

And in other news... I got my business cards FINALLY! The backs are all different. Each has a different photo I have taken. I love these little cards. Now please, help me get rid of them!

A Month with Us: Day 9, 10, 11 and 12

2011-08-12T21:46:00.000-07:00

Goodness I guess I am getting good at this whole wait-three-days-before-you-post-again thing! It has been a fun but very busy week in the Rodriguez household. So far, most nights consist of us coming home from work, making dinner, trying to clean/organize some part of the apartment and just enjoying each other. This week it included all of the above plus a few visits with friends as well.

Tuesday we made chili cheese dogs from the left over chili we had the other night. They were tasty! And easy! Christian turned the camera on me and caught all sorts of odd faces. This was the closest face to normal out of the whole bunch. If you know me... you know my face expressions are typically nothing close to normal!

On Wednesday, Chrish and I went to have dinner and desert with some new friends from church. We had so much fun. We enjoyed the evening with two couples and three toddlers. So entertaining- we loved it though! As you can see my husband tends to provide as much entertainment as the kids do. I like him...

Thursday we made pizza again! It is definitely one of our favorite meals for summer time. Our friend James came over to enjoy it with us but I forgot to take a picture of him. Oops! He went to Israel with Christian and has come over a few times to hang out with us since they have been back. He is always a joy to have around and always provides great fellowship for both of us.

Tonight my Mama came to visit us! I haven't gotten to see her much since the wedding because we live nearly two hours away form both my parents and Christian's parents. It is so nice to have her here. Tomorrow we are having a girl day- much needed. I love her so.

A Month With Us: Days 5, 6, 7 and 8

2011-08-08T21:29:00.000-07:00

Sheesh I lost track of the days. I am sure the last four days haven't passed- its still Friday isn't it?! This whole being a wife thing makes the days pass by very, very quickly. I am exhausted so this may be more of a simple informative post rather than a deep thinking one. Though I don't think most of them are- I need to start putting more time into these. Anyhow...

On Friday we decided to make kabobs. Since it's been so hot we have been trying to stay out of the hot kitchen. The BBQ and our homey little porch have been good friends of ours. By the way, Christian is fantastic at the grill... mmm mmm mmm!

Outside eating done right at the Rodriguez residence.

Yummy cheese garlic bread. I kinda went on a whim to make it but we liked it. It has butter and chive/onion cream cheese, mozzarella cheese and garlic salt. Tasty and gooey cheesy goodness!

Christian's handiwork... so so good.


We enjoyed a lovely outside dinner. We have these big trees outside the fence that keep us nice and shady.

Saturday I ran around all day doing errands and grocery shopping. Saturdays are my prepare-for-the-whole-week day. It is my productive day. It was productive...

My To Do List... there were two pages. I try and keep the list long so I can stay busy. Its hard to stay busy (riiiiight!) so I try and come up with things- or keep up with them! Sheesh!

I would appreciate it if gas prices went back down.

I used the crock pot for the first time. It was nice to pour a bunch of stuff into the slow cooker and come home from errands and have chili! Magic!

Sunday we went to church. We have been attending Faith Community Church in Oxnard and absolutely love it. It is starting to feel like home already.

Pastor Rick Anderson's pulpit. He is an amazing shepherd of his congregation. We love sitting under him on Sundays.

Monday is work day. This is my space in the office. The office is actually under renovation right at the moment. This is not my usual desk- in fact, its not a desk. It is a big tall project table. My feet don't reach the floor. This is the transition desk so that I don't have to sit on the floor this week. We are going to get new desks, a window so I can see outside (most excited about this), and painting the walls a fresh new color. I'll be sure to keep you posted on the changes.

My time sheet that proves how hard I work :)

My coffee and keyboard are my companions for most of the morning.

Hopefully these posts will come more frequently so that they are not so long and I can focus on writing a little more. Happy Monday everyone!

A Month With Us: Day 4

2011-08-04T21:35:00.000-07:00

OK, you you may be thinking. Stacey, Day 4 does not follow Day 2- do the math. I know, I know. But between getting a little sick the other day (no, I'm not pregnant Internet) and having a surprise visitor (you'll be introduced to him later) blogging just didn't happen. I did however, shoot every day, which is my biggest goal. I want to practice my art. I want to be good- not just because I got lucky, but because I intrinsically understand what I am doing. I have a long way to go but that is another story for another day. So this is a catch up post from the 2nd, 3rd and 4th (today!).

A few days ago, Christian took me out on a date- the first one since being back home. We had such a fantastic time, just hanging out. We had a gift card from the wedding, so we got to eat from the special side of the menu: Steak and Seafood! We party pretty hard, I know. Any how, I brought along my camera and Christian snapped the above shot. I like him.


Our yummy dinner, right before it was consumed! But the best part? No clean up!

Last night our good friend Jamison came to hang out with us. We told him he wins the award of being our first friend to drop by and hang with the scary married couple :) It was fun. We had dinner and watched Walk the Line and goofed off. This is him showing off Thunder to Christian (the other one is Lightning, but its too fast and furious to be caught on film).


If you know Jamison, you know why this picture is just him. He's a ham. He never comes through my front door, but instead always hops over my fence and knocks on my sliding glass door. He buys us Otter Pops and imitates Stevie Wonder. Jamison is the entertainment in our household- we don't have TV.

Today I made homemade pizza for dinner. It was delicious if I do say so myself! We had fun trying to get the raw pizza dough on the grill and not through it. It was a fun night though. Christian and I hung out on our patio and grilled and talked- nice and simple. I like nice and simple.

I did shoot today, but Christian was on photo duty while I cooked (the shot above was his too). I like the way he sees things- simply. Like I said earlier, I like simple.

Happy August 4th everyone. See you all again tomorrow! Be here or be square :)

A Month With Us: Day 2

2011-08-03T17:26:00.000-07:00

This post is sort of from yesterday... but it still applies for today. I'll explain, Internet, I'll explain. Yesterday, my parents-in-love drove to our neck of the woods not to visit (although we would have loved that too!), but to bring us our wedding present! While Christian and I were at work, his mom and dad unloaded, built and moved into the apartment our new bedroom set. We are so excited. Our little apartment is starting to feel more and more like a home- our home. So I figured, I would give to all a little before and after of the place we call ours. Don't hate on the before pictures, they were taken with my ghetto camera (when I say ghetto, I mean it- I bought it in 7th grade for $30, but my real camera was packed in a box somewhere). Welcome to the Rodriguez residence!

Our little outside area isn't much... but we have big plans! I want to put a little herb garden in, hang a hammock chair, put up lights and maybe a few signs.

Christian got this from his Groom's Day shower along with a whole closet full of knives, tools and manly man things!

Our living room! This is the room closest to being done- or at least just put together and presentable looking.

Christian whipped out the camera and documented our vast book collection. He had twelve boxes of books when we moved in and I had six. We. Love. To. Read.

This is the other half of the living room... ignore the kitchen, I'll get to it in just a second.

He likes to sit and read in the middle of his miniature library. I am nervous to see how big it will get one day!

My kitchen was one of my favorite places when we first moved in. Even undecorated, I loved the dark wood cabinets and bright white appliances. Looked so new and fresh.

Now its even better because we have things like coffee and tea...

a microwave...

COOKIES! (these are peanut butter and chocolate chip cookie bars yum)...

and wall art from the kiddos!

For the first week, I slept in the corner of our room on the floor.

Now we have a bed! Its so comfy... the bed and coverings were all gifts from my parents. The furniture pieces are gifts from Christian's parents.

Our sink/closet area still needs A LOT of work!

I love the little toilet hutch. We almost didn't keep it, but I'm glad we did. It's cute!

Our first night here, Christian's mom brought us Pick Up Stix. We didn't have a table so...

We have a table now, but don't look cause everything is everywhere! Agh moving is crazy.

First night!

Last night!

I'M BACK! AND MARRIED!

2011-08-01T12:47:00.000-07:00

Goodness, it feels good to be back! It has been far, far too long since I've gotten to hang out here on my little blog. However, I think absence made the heart grow fonder, because I am more excited than ever to blog and shoot and work on the business! Woohoo! I don't have many shoots coming up this summer because I intentionally tried to give myself as much of the summer off as I could to adjust to this whole being-a-wife thing. Christian starts graduate school in the fall and there will be plenty of time for being insanely busy then. But until then, I am cooking and blogging and making our apartment into our home... oh and working! I am working for a home business answering phones and those sorts of things. The fun part is that the family has five of the nicest, most well behaved kids I have ever met! Cade is 9, Canyon is either 7 or 8 (there are a lot of ages and birthdays to remember OK?), Kennedy is 6, Keagan is 3 and Chloe is almost 2. AND another baby boy is on its way in December! They have been so fun for me. Emily is a fellow photographer and we have so many fun chats about photography and just life in general. They have been a major blessing to me!

Anyhow, I wanted to share wedding stuff with all of you here. Pictures and our highlight video are in! I can't wait to see the rest of everything but here is what we have so far.

Chris Jenkins of Windy Weather Films did the cinematography at the wedding. He did a fantastic job- I am beyond impressed. Chris is a friend of mine from waaaay back (like 21 years back). He is just starting out his business and if our wedding is any proof of his potential, he is going to be a force to be reckoned with in the wedding biz. He was professional and fun and captured US! Here is the highlight video he put together of us. I tried to load the actual video here but alas! no luck. Here is the link http://www.windyweatherfilms.com/2011/07/21/stacey-christian-mountain-wedding/

Bethany of Bethany Bell was our absolutely wonderful photographer for the day. Really- she is amazing! Our day was captured perfectly because she was there. She did both our engagement shoots and we were hooked. She has this amazing knack of making you feel comfortable in front of a camera (which is a bit intimidating sometimes). I will let her photos speak for themselves. But one more thing... If you are getting married and don't have a photographer yet she is your woman. I don't know if I am supposed to say that considering I am a wedding photographer, but for real- she is amazing!

I adore my wedding party. Some of my very very dearest friends.

Apparently I thought something was pretty funny.

One of my favorite photos of Christian from the day. He is so handsome.

Cami Dodd is the mastermind behind this one. I asked her to hold my dress while I went to the restroom. She suggested all ten of us get in on the fun. I love you Cami.

We both got each other watches. We are very time savvy... I know.

This one to the left is possibly my favorite photo from the day. What a joyful day!

I have to admit, I was a little nervous with how the wedding party's outfits would turn out. Not going to lie, the boys had me a little worried. But when they all walked out, I about died. I have the most fantastic friends. You guys all looked great!

Yes, these pictures did get out of order. My dad walked me down before the above photo of me at the alter with Christian.

My two very best friends in the whole world... making me laugh and making me happy.

We were so tired... and so happy at the end of the night.

I love the black and white photo of the dance. It feels like a still from a movie to me. Bethany you are amazing!

One of my very favorite moments from the entire day.

Now that your finger has died from scrolling through this mile long post (sorry about that, I had a lot to catch you up on) please come back and visit often. I am doing a 52 week blogging project. So I will be posting often!! Happy Monday!

Wedding: Toni and Veronica

2011-06-24T21:49:00.000-07:00

Veronica and Toni are two of a kind. They love deeply and laugh softly. Watching the two of them on their wedding day made for a sweet day as their photographer. They had eyes only for each other, hardly noticing there was an entire party going on around them, for them.
Veronica and Toni, thank you for allowing me to shoot your wedding. You two put a trust in me that I could not thank you enough for. You are genuinely sweet and I know you two will have a blessed marriage. Congratulations!

Veronica and Toni got married at an air force base, I thought the following photo might be appropriate.

Sarah and I thought we needed a 'bride-to-be-fellow-photographer' photo. It was a fun evening.

Wedding: Phil and Diana

2011-06-23T10:05:00.000-07:00

Their families all said it best during the toasts. Diana and Phil are perfect for eachother. She is bubbly and funloving and kind hearted. He is her strength and friend. He plays the supporting role, but you can't see her without seeing him. When she is happy, you can find him next to her laughing right along side her. And according to her family, when she is sad, you can find him by her side, one arm wrapped around her, the other hand used for wiping her tears.

They were made for each other. Each shines brightest when pushing the other towards their dreams and happiness. Diana and Phil, thank you for letting me come and shoot along side with Kurt and Stephen. Not only was your wedding beautiful and lovely, but it allowed me to shoot with and learn along side two amazing photographers. Congradulations to you both!

Phil and one of his groomsmen hand made these BBQ skewers for all the groomsmen.

Diana and Phil went a few weeks before the wedding to brew their own signature beer for the wedding. The groomsmen all got a sneak taste of it before the ceremony but it was 'premired' at the reception for all the guests.

The toasts were both touching and humorous. Diana's mom shared a heartfelt toast from both her and Diana's father who passed on only a while ago. To see that the families had come together and made one big family over such a loss was very touching. I think Diana realized at this moment the amount of love and support surrounding her.

I know this is different then most photos I post, but I just adore the lights and the way Phil is watching is new wife dance it out on the floor.

Engagement: Danny and Emily

2011-05-15T18:34:00.000-07:00

They met in high school, so yes, they are high school sweethearts. But these two are far from typical. Their story is a special one actually. After dating on and off in high school, Danny made things official by asking Emily to be his girlfriend. She said yes, they committed to each other, and then Danny flew across the nation to attend college. The end of the story? Of course not. Three years ago, when he drove from North Carolina to California, she probably felt like this time would never come. But indeed, it has. After three years of an across country relationship, Danny flew home just a few months ago to ask Emily to marry him.

She says she almost passed out from the surprise of seeing him for the first time in months only moments before he got down on one knee and produced a gorgeous ring. He says she never looked so pretty. They fit perfectly together like that. Her loving his presence. Him thinking she never looked prettier. This week, Danny graduated from college and the first of next year, she will join him here in California while he takes on the next three years of his education.

I am entirely blessed to call these two my dear friends. Christian and I have the honor of standing up with them at their New Year's Eve wedding and we can't wait to be a part of their special day. I was so thrilled to have to opportunity to capture this time in their lives and I hope that you will enjoy. Happy Sunday!

Family: Graciano Family

2011-05-09T15:00:00.000-07:00

The Graciano Family is one I have known for longer than I can even remember. While we didn't exactly grown up with them because of distance, we saw them as a family a few times a year since we were very young. They are a fun family that just welcomed their first grandchild just recently. As you will be able to see, she is an absolute doll. We had a great time reminiscing and taking taking pictures all day. I hope you enjoy these as much as I did and Happy Monday!

Wedding: Randy and Kati

2011-05-07T22:08:00.000-07:00

Goodness it has been FAR too long since this wedding took place. These pictures should have been posted the day after, I did stay up all night editing them after all! But with planning my own wedding and work and my fiance, Christian, coming home after four months!! life has been a little on the hectic side. Any how, enough with excuses...

I had the wonderful opportunity on April 10th, to second shoot with the amazing Desiree Shuey at the beautiful backyard wedding of a dear friend of hers. Randy and Kati are an incredible couple that not only combined their lives but combined the lives of their four adorable children. I have never seen such an intimate, family centered ceremony and I feel as though every ceremony, big or small, should have the same level of seriousness and deep love to it. Desiree, thank you so much for the opportunity and for allowing me the first chance to try my hand at this whole wedding photography thing. I loved every minute of it.

Keep an eye out the next couple of months because I have a few more weddings coming your way by the end of the summer, until then enjoy Randy and Kati!

Portrait: Nikki and Lindsey

2011-05-06T09:27:00.000-07:00

These two girls were way too much fun! It has been a few weeks since we did their senior/best friend pictures but because life has been a little crazy I am just now able to get them up here. The girls wanted to shoot in a meadow and the field of flowers we found was amazing! We had a ton of fun laughing and goofing off, not only because they are way funny but because one of my best friends and amazing stylists, Celeste, is Nikki's older sister and came along to do hair and makeup for both the girls and to provide plenty of entertainment for all of us. You may remember her from here and here. Any how, these three ladies provided an extra fun day for me and I had a great time capturing the fun. Good luck to both you girls and have a wonderful time rooming together at BIOLA!

Family: Celeste and Makailo

2011-04-21T23:39:00.000-07:00

He is one of the coolest kids ever. And his Mama is one of the sweetest people ever! Some of you may remember a year ago, when I shared pictures of these two that I took as a Mother's Day gift for my dear, dear friend Celeste. She is one of my best friends. You know, the ones that are always there, 'cheer leading' you on and making you laugh along the way? She is one of those kinds of friends. Anyhow, for Makailo's second birthday, she asked if I would be willing to stop by first thing in the morning and do a mini session with him. I can't believe how much he has changed since a year ago. Then, he was a baby- barely even becoming a toddler. Now, he is a little man, who thinks his Mama is pretty and has fun showing me how to build a rock pile inside a bucket of water- all boy! So here they are and since this post is waaaay over due- Happy Birthday a month ago, Kailo!

Portrait: Desirae

2011-04-19T23:49:00.000-07:00

Goodness I have been so excited to blog this senior session! This is Desirae my brothers very sweet counterpart. She puts up with all his (and our!) nonsense and fits right in with the family. We love her to pieces. When she asked me if I would be willing to take her pictures I was honored. Not only is she gorgeous (as you will see) but she is very fun loving and full of humor, so I knew it would be an enjoyable day. We drove down the hill to shoot at the same spot her parents took their wedding photos- sooo sweet! and dove right in. The place was amazing. We were there for hours and didn't come close to hitting all the locations available. Not only that but there are peacocks just roaming around everywhere. It was unreal. All in all, we had a great time laughing and shooting and I'm sure making other guests feel uncomfortable with our dancing and goofing off. So here she is... the lovely Desirae.

Portrait: Brianna

2011-04-17T22:29:00.001-07:00

Ok, like I said on my Facebook, I know it literally has been FOREVER since I posted. I haven't disappeared, I promise. I've been working like a crazy person actually. The thing is, I'm really excited about some of the stuff I have been working on and had been planning to showcase the last few sessions when I launched the new site. However, because of my ridiculous indecisiveness-I know! its awful- it looks like the site won't be launched for a few months and that is just way too long to wait to share. So without any further ado, here is the first of the sessions I've been holding out on. Keep checking in I have a ton to put up.

Brianna is graduating this year- congratulations class of 2011- and wanted something other than the stuffy studio pictures that a lot of seniors get offered. So we went on a bit of a hike, in heals and all, to get some really great ones.

Enjoy your week, and check back soon!

Family: Lopez Family

2011-01-25T11:29:00.000-08:00

Some of you may remember the Lopez family from the maternity session I did with them a few months ago. They came out to Santa Clarita to take some family pictures with their little girl Anjelice and little Aaden-to-be. Well now Aaden is here and what a little cutie. Lisette and Albert asked me to come to their house to take the pictures in his nursery. I was a little nervous because it was one of my first times shooting indoors but it turned out great. I made sure to get there when the pretty morning light was streaming right through his window and we were set. Poor little guy was so tired... but we couldn't get him to sleep for anything! He was far too interested in my camera. But he cooperated nicely and we had a fun time. Enjoy and happy Tuesday!

Albert is a DJ by trade so they wanted to set up Aaden with his headphones. He's starting off right I guess!

The nursery is decorated in the cutest underwater theme- lots of blues, greens, and sea creatures!

Aaden got hungry so while he was being fed, Angelice and I explored in her 'girls-only' room.

Lisette did a lot of work in the nursery including some personalized art like this one.

Portrait: Austin

2011-01-23T12:21:00.000-08:00

Before I go into the post telling you all how great Austin is, I want to give an update on why I haven't blogged in FOREVER! Obviously the holidays are always busy, but the last few weeks have been filled with getting Christian ready to fly out to Israel. He flew out yesterday and will not be returning to the States until May 7. Your prayers are much appreciated! I hope this post will satisfy the long absence on the blog- again, so sorry! Trust me, you'll be seeing much more of me from here on out. Oh and keep an eye out because branding and a website will be coming soon- I can't wait!

Ok so enough of me going on and on. Austin is a good family friend of mine who will be graduating at the end of the year. He is one of the coolest people I know. And not cool as in too-cool-for-anyone-else cool, but a genuine cool. He has a personality that draws people to him, an awesome sense of style, and mad guitar skills. He's cool. We went out on a FREEZING December day, and the spot we picked happened to be a major wind tunnel, but like I always say, my clients are great! He didn't even blink an eye. I was complaining the whole time about how cold my toes and nose and fingers were and you would have thought it was a sunny 70 degrees with him. He was great! I hope you enjoy the pictures as much as I did. Sorry they are so late- happy Sunday.

Family: Rodriguez Family

2011-01-03T11:41:00.000-08:00

The Rodriguez family is the family I am so excited and proud to be marrying in to. As my Christmas gift to them I rounded them all up (no easy feat between the three men!) and took some family photos for them. One thing that stands true about them is they love each other- and laugh a lot! It was one of my most memorable sessions because they are all so goofy and fun loving. We laughed and shivered through the entire hour. Sarah and Gary are Christian's parents. They have such an amazing relationship and have done a phenomenal job raising up two very godly men. Steven and Andrea are Christian's brother and sister-in-law. The two of them have been married for nearly five years and it has been so fun to watch their relationship grow. I love them all so much. My handsome fiance is quite the little ring leader of all of them (though I might be a bit biased!) He is forever making them laugh at his crazy antics and getting him to sit still for my camera was quite the job! He is silly and sweet and far too good to me. I love him so much. Enjoy the pictures and I hope you are able to get to know my family-to-be a little better!

Family: Colon Family

2011-01-03T11:05:00.000-08:00

Jessica and Edison are some dear friends of mine and Christians and when they contacted me to take some family pictures for their Christmas cards I was honored. They have four beautiful children that are sweet and fun. We had a blast running all around the backyard and finding fields filled with lovely fall leaves. This post is far over due but better late than never right? I hope you'll enjoy them as much as I did. Happy Monday!

Family: Malins Family

2010-12-08T22:49:00.000-08:00

The Malins Family is one of the sweetest. They are all so kind and loving and extra stylish. They were a joy to photograph and fun to spend time with. When Tiffany contacted me to meet up with her, her husband, parents and siblings, I was at the very least nervous. She is a very talented photographer and I knew I would need to be on my A game. But really, I had nothing to worry about because there are very few ways to go wrong when shooting such a beautiful family. I really enjoyed it and wish all seven of you a very Merry Christmas!

Family: Gilson Family

2010-12-01T19:20:00.000-08:00

I. Love. My. Family. They are so near and dear to me and when they asked me to figure out a way to take family pictures for our Christmas card, I was more than honored and a little nervous. It was so much fun. I set up a tripod and was running around like a crazy person, but I couldn't be more thankful for the family I have been blessed with. My parents are still so in love, which I think is obvious from these pictures and I have the most handsome little brother ever. I hope you enjoy these I much as I do. Happy December!

Family: Cruz Family

2010-11-30T14:19:00.000-08:00

The Cruz family is one of those exquisite families that everyone loves to be around. They love each other in a way that comes from respect of one another and growing together through thick and thin. Alyssa was one of the first people I shot when I was first starting out in the business and that photo session has stood out to me even now as one of my favorite ones. I was blessed to spend time with her, her two siblings and her two cousins. We mostly laughed and had fun and took a few pictures on the side. They are that sort of family- fun and fun loving! Oh and this family is FIERCE! You'd think these kids had been modeling since childhood but they are just that good looking and comfortable in front of the camera... all of them! So enjoy the pictures, hopefully they'll let you take a peak into the fun day I had with this wonderful family!

Giving Thanks!

2010-11-26T18:03:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving was a special one. Not only was I blessed to celebrate with family and friends over turkey and cranberry sauce, but as my dad pointed out, it was my last Thanksgiving as an unmarried woman. It was fun to sit back for one more year and not have to worry about how long to cook the green beans for and whether to make apple pie or cherry. My Mama, as always, put out a great spread and make a huge feast for us. Shes a great cook, let me tell you! I also got to go celebrate with Christian's family for the first time this year which was such a blessing. I couldn't be more thankful for the two families God has blessed me with.

My Engagement Pictures

2010-11-22T19:43:00.000-08:00

When Christian and I first got engaged, we decided that a good photographer was a huge priority. We were willing to spend a majority of our budget on having great pictures. I remember saying I would rather have a simple wedding with a great photographer to capture it beautifully then an extravagant one with mediocre photos to remember it by. Let me tell you, I have a feeling its going to be the best decision we made. Bethany Belle is a phenomenal photographer. Not only is she talented beyond belief, but she is also unbelievably fun. We made memories yesterday that I will remember far after this 'wedding season' I am currently in. And I cannot tell you how much I learned from her as a photographer by getting to watch the way she works. I now know what its like to be on the other side of a camera and how to best interact with a client to make them comfortable. For all of my clients, past and future, you guys are great. I never realized how much work it is to model for a camera thats right up in your face! So, enjoy and then go check her out.

Family: Lopez Family

2010-11-21T21:17:00.000-08:00

The Lopez family is a truly sweet one. I have known them for too many years to count and I am not sure I have ever seen them without smiles on their faces. They were more than gracious when I got us lost on our way to the shooting location and rolled with the funny weather that stormed in right before we started shooting. Albert, Lisette and Anjelice are expecting baby Aaden really soon and I can't wait to take his newborn pictures in January! Enjoy...

My Boots Don't Have Straps!

2010-11-15T16:31:00.000-08:00

This week has been a funny one. That is what I told myself last night. Its the only explanation I could come up with. It hasn't really been funny but what is very far beyond the point. Last week I was frustrated with my work and that fact that I'm in a season of life that doesn't allow me the luxuries I want in my work. I decided to pull up my boot straps and quit making excuses and get to work. Well, my boots don't have straps- rather the soles are falling apart but continue to wear them constantly because I love them- but I have gotten to work. And boy have I been blessed by the support I've had. I had some sessions the last two weeks that have taught me more about photography than any other ones I taken in the past year. What a blessing! The lessons where two extremely different ones but they taught me the same general principle. I LOVE taking pictures and capturing moments and I ought to be extra grateful that God has blessed me with the opportunity to do. I am so glad that I am learning this lesson.

Not only am I thankful for the lesson but I am also thankful for the realization I had about the people around me. I have people in my life that love me way beyond the call of duty and I couldn't be more grateful. I was walking by myself today from one class to the next because I'm a nerd and I tell myself that I really, really like the solitude. Riiight! I am really just a nerd that never knows what to say- I'm working on it! I got a phone call while I was walking. It was Christian. He was on the second story of the building above me and could see me. Walking. All alone. Needless to say I'm sure he felt sorry for me. Really though, he's sweet. He wanted me to know that I wasn't alone. He loved me and would have been walking with me if he could have. I know! I know! Sweetest thing ever, right? I am blessed beyond words to have him.

The call made me realize that I am not alone in work either. I have my fiance and my family and peers and friends cheering me on! Thank you to each of you who has done so. I appreciate it more that you could possibly imagine. And since, a photography blog should have pictures, here is a quick look at the family shoot I had the privilege of shooting yesterday.

Resolved To...

2010-11-08T23:56:00.000-08:00

I'm frustrated with myself and the work I'm producing... well, its time to learn your trade then. At first I didn't want to hear it. I didn't want to hear out of Christian's mouth that he was about to hold me accountable to learning. See, I am the impatient type. I want to be good at something... right now! But apparently, that's not going to happen. Instead, I am realizing I am going to have to work really, really hard. I knew all along that I was going to reach this point at, well, some point! But I was trying to avoid it. It's here now and I've just decided, with Christian across the table from me and my chai tea latte sitting next to me, that I am ready. Ready to work really, really hard. I know it is far from the beginning of the year, so instead of making a New Year's resolution, I am going to reflect on the last year and see how I can make the next one better.
1. I am determined to learn my trade. Digital Photography Class next semester, here I come.
2. I want to start looking through magazines to get inspiration for poses and looks and over all feels.
3. I am going to try really hard to have my camera in hand as often as possible. Actually, that should be number one, but that's ok.
4. I want to be a better fiance and learn to push Christian towards his dreams the way he does for me. I want to support and love and help and encourage. Wait, wait, wait... THAT one should be number one!
5. I am determined to 'make it' in the industry. I know I have a long way to go and that I will never be the best, or even among the best, but I want to be good at what I love to do and I want to show the world my trade.

So there you go. For the one of you that is listening, or I guess, reading, promise to hold me accountable? Cause this year is going to be different. I am so thankful for everything I have learned in the past year but I want to learn twice as much this year and be twice as good by this time next year. Make that three times as good! Good night Internet, Happy-almost-Tuesday.

Apple Pie Night? Yes Please!

2010-11-06T16:21:00.000-07:00

Hotchkiss Apple Pie Night next week. Start collecting apples from the cafeteria each time to go and drop them off in the container so we have enough for next week’s event! Having never been here at school for this tradition I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but I did what I was told. We are allowed to take one piece of fruit from the cafeteria with us every time we leave. Each day I would grab one of the shiny green apples and promise myself I wouldn’t eat it. Two apples a day times the two hundred students who live in the Hotchkiss dorm plus the extra students outside the dorm that help us out because they want some pie too equals lots and lots of scrumptious apples. I watched as the mountain grew and grew until the bins couldn’t contain the yummy fruit anymore. Finally Tuesday came and the whole dorm smelled like cinnamon and gooey apples all wrapped up in flaky crust. We baked sixty-two apple pies and ate thirty-some of them in our Resident Director’s apartment that night. The rest were spread out to the other dorms, our security team and the faculty to spread a little seasonal love. The night was full of way too many college students crammed into an apartment, hot apples and vanilla ice cream, and lots of laughter and music. As much as I miss home, I love the two hundred people I currently call family. There is a lot of personalities and love and friendship and I couldn’t ask for better!

My Unmade Bed and Homemade Food

2010-10-22T12:24:00.000-07:00

So today I was standing in the middle of my tornado stricken room and I was hit with a thought. Oh! I promised myself I was going to blog every day! I knew I'd forget... Needless to say I hopped right onto my bed, which is a feat since by bed comes up to my waist in this little room, and pulled my computer right out. Its one of those funny afternoons. The sun can't decided if it wants to come out from under the clouds or not and my roommate, Lauren, is listening to Frank Sinatra and I'm half buried in my unmade bed, which by the way I am only semi embarrassed about. I probably should make my bed every morning, I am engaged to be married after all. Christian ignore the last few statements please. I promise to try and make the bed every morning, maybe.

Anyhow, tonight our good friend Eric is coming out to the school to see us. We may go to Denny's after because we're college kids. Which means we are always broke and always hungry. Hint to any mother or even semi domestic woman out there: we will ALWAYS accept homemade food and be incredibly thankful for it. We both miss home a lot. Not just families and friends but having a real home with a kitchen and a closet. We get to come home this weekend. Thank goodness. Have a lovely weekend and be thankful for your home!

Late Year's Resolution

2010-10-17T18:04:00.000-07:00

Alright so its October and, believe it or not, New Years is really only around the corner. However, I am feeling the need to make a resolution. Down here at school its been a little difficult to be doing as many photo sessions as I would like. Between classes, studying and wedding planning I hardly have time left. I keep telling myself to just make it to January because then I can create a brand and take a photography class and market and actually shoot! But yesterday I realized I need to pick myself up off my seat and do something! That something is blogging. I don't want to be one of those photographers that is known by my images only. I want my wonderful clients to feel like they really know me. So Late Year's Resolution #1 blog as nearly to daily as possible. The season is a little slow right now but there are some fantastic shoots coming up that I am really excited for and that leaves plenty of time for you to get to know me. Late Year's Resolution #2 make it to January alive. Late Year's Resolution #3 keep working on my New Years Resolutions, most of which are not nearly completed.

I thought it would be nice to share a few pictures with you of Christian and I. This was the day he proposed. If you know me at all you've seen these a hundred times. Because I like to show them off!

Happy Weekend.

Santa Clarita

2010-10-16T17:07:00.000-07:00

Alright everyone, as some of you know, I have been living in Santa Clarita for the last two months attending school. Since this beautiful city will soon (come July 15th) be my new permanent home, I figured it was time to do some location searching for photo sessions out here. And oh boy, am I excited! I found a plethora of spots. Some are pretty, some urban, some rustic, some full of tall grass and flowers, some with white picket fences. The list could continue for a very long time. So I guess what I am trying to say is this place is beautiful and you should all consider visiting. I still go home every now and again and will be back in January for a few months, but if you are looking for a place to take Christmas card photos, engagement pictures, or anything else, you know where to find me! And I know where to find some pretty fantastic spots to photograph you in.

Have a happy Saturday!

Family: Villalobos Family

2010-10-11T19:46:00.000-07:00

What a joy this little family is! I loved getting to watch them and all their love for each other through my lens. Little Rebekah is such a silly and happy toddler and boy, did she love being in front of the camera. She would walk any distance to get to it so she could inspect it and peer into the glass. I had many a shot of one squinty eye because she was so close! For her first birthday, we brought out a birthday cake and let her have at it. It was a crack up to watch the progress of that endeavor! She was so fun and Christina and Jason are so in love with each other. I thought it was adorable to watch them watching her, standing arm in arm. They seem so content with their little family. You three were a joy to work with. Have fun raising that adorable daughter of yours!

Family: The Dorseys

2010-09-12T23:52:00.000-07:00

Where do I even begin on this family? They were one of my favorite families to shoot so far but that is not why I love them all so much. I love them because they are my second family. This is as close to family portraits as I'll be able to take without have to jump from one side of the camera to the other. Dean and Kristy are phenomenal parents and the kids are fantastic. Jordan just moved away to school, Brennan plays football for the high school, and Brooklyn is simply stunning. They are all so silly and so loving, which I think you will see in each photo. Also I have to explain the goofy shot near the end. Every one teases Dean and Kristy about looking like Mr. and Mrs. Incredible so we decided to do a little role playing. Look closely and you'll see what I mean and the kids fit right in!

Engagement: Justin and Misha

2010-09-03T00:07:00.000-07:00

Justin and Misha have the classic love story that everyone loves to hear. Because I attended school with her, I got to hear, along with all our girlfriends, about the fun dates, the ongoing relationship, the frustrating "When is he ever going to propose," the overwhelming excitement and joy right after the proposal, and the "Oh my goodness! I have so much planning to do." Needless to say, it has been fun to learn of their growing relationship from Misha's side, but it was even more fun to finally meet Justin and see their relationship first hand. Justin is one of those guys that really, truly adores his fiance. She lights up when she is around him, and he would do whatever he had to in order to be with her. I enjoyed the opportunity to capture their love for one another at the very place he asked her to be his wife.

Family: The Siens

2010-08-27T16:21:00.000-07:00

I have had the privilege of knowing the Siens family for a very long time. We have gone on camping trips with them and my brother and I have nearly grown up with the boys. And now their lovely family has expanded. The family has been joined by two new daughters, Karen and Angelica and have welcomed two new grand babies, Nicole and Troy. Their family is possibly one of the most loving and kind families I know. Not only did we have a wonderful day out on the beach and took a walk for ice cream, but they also bought me dinner at the end of the night. I loved the day I got to spend with them and can't wait to see what great things God has in store for each one of them. I know it is way over due, but Happy Birthday Elva!

Family: The Velazquez's

2010-08-13T19:28:00.000-07:00

The Velazquez family is one I have known for a long time. Gabe and Helena have been family friends forever, and I have been fortunate enough to see all the girls grow up. They are one of those families that you just can't help but love. Gabe and Helena are funny, and sweet, and phenomenal parents and the girls are three of a kind. Each beautiful in their own way and each with their very unique personalities. They were a joy to photograph. The girls weren't afraid to laugh on command, pose, or throw their shoes at me! You guys truly are an amazing family and I can't wait to see what is to come for each of you.

Family: Carlos and Angelica

2010-08-10T16:12:00.000-07:00

Carlos and Angelica are some dear friends of mine who recently had their first son, Troy. When we first talked about doing the newborn session, I was a little nervous because it was my first one, but I couldn't have asked for a better newborn to work with. I think he peeped one eye open at me the entire time. He couldn't have cared less that we were photographing him. He is a lucky little guy, his parents obviously adore him and really love one another. Good luck in raising your new little one, enjoy!

Portrait: Alyssa

2010-07-28T15:25:00.000-07:00

So this amazing shoot was with a good friend of mine, Alyssa. The pictures were actually supposed to be for her Sweet 16, but it took some time to actually get to doing them so Happy 16 and 1/2 Birthday, Alyssa! You truly are a lovely young woman, inside and out.

Engagement: Daniel and Breann

2010-07-08T20:10:00.000-07:00

Where do I start with these two? I have gone to school with them since kindergarten and have been friends with them far before they ever fell in love. I still remember when they first started dating during (I believe) our Sophomore year of high school. Our Senior year they won the award for "Most Likely Never to be Seen Apart." Needless to say, I have seen these two in many stages of life and I truly believe they are happiest in this one. I'm so excited for you guys!

And I'll end with my two favorites.

Family: The Carmichaels

2010-07-03T23:41:00.000-07:00

The Carmichael family is an exceptionally big one, not all of them were even present for out session out in Wrightwood. Not only is the family big, but they are extra special as well. They are a mix of biological, foster, and adopted children- but wait it gets better! I am still not sure which kids belong in which category, because their parents love each of them so much. I don't know if Holly and Pat know how much they are blessing these kids lives,but they are, you can see it in each of their faces. These pictures are just a little piece of a family that has gone beyond social lines and just loves.

Family: Celeste and Makailo

2010-06-30T18:00:00.000-07:00

Celeste is one of my dear friends from school whose son is coming up on a year and a half. If I can tell you one thing about him, it would be this: he is ALL boy! And she couldn't be a better mother to this little guy. I love them both. Enjoy!

He looks just like her.

Such a little man already.

Time for the playground!

I love the lighting on this one.

He got such a kick out of the water fountain. Lucky for us it was hot enough to play in the water.

I'll end with one of my very favorites.

Wedding: Isaiah and Natalie

2010-06-22T22:57:00.000-07:00

Natalie is a very good friend of mine who I have known for years. Her and her now husband met at college and I couldn't be happier for them. I was not the photographer at this wedding but of course lugged my camera along to capture some of the fun. Thanks for letting me share in your special day Nat.

I love these shots of the bridal party praying along with Isaiah and Nat.

Isaiah you may kiss your bride.

Delicious home-cooked food.

The beautiful cake.