Dominique Nelson Photography

Alexa and Tim's Wedding

2011-12-30T23:26:00.000-06:00

Alexa and Tim handled the, many more than usual, wedding day hiccups with incredible grace. When I arrived several hours before the ceremony the first few flakes of snow were starting to fall. By the time the ceremony started there was well over a foot of snow! They delayed the start time to the ceremony and surprisingly nearly all the guests made it.

My first wedding with cowboy boots! I've had so many ideas of fun things so I had to play...

Not only did it snow for hours the wind was brutal!

Congrats Tim and Alexa! You survived a huge snow storm on your wedding day plus everything else that didn't go as planned. I think you'll have some easy years ahead of you! If rain on a wedding day is good luck I think it's multiplied big time for a snow storm!

Meet Daisy Mae

2011-12-30T23:23:00.000-06:00

Daisy Mae was born a few days before Halloween and luckily it was warm enough we could sneak outside for a few pics. Daisy was a perfect newborn... sleepy! She was only a few days old but she is a big girl and looks much older.

Big brother was even cooperative :)

I love this one!

This one too! Perfect for Daisy's birth announcement.

Such a pretty baby! What fun baby girls are to photograph!

Autumn Romance- Brandon and Jenna's Engagement Session

2011-12-30T23:02:00.001-06:00

Fall leaves, a red barn, an old rusty truck... It just doesn't get any better!

Jenna and Brandon are planning a country wedding next summer, in a little white church of course. They both grew up on farms and have now started their life together on a farm. I photographed this session early in October. They took me out on land owned by their parents, amazing country beauty. It was such a gorgeous season for fall leaves, the colors were spectacular. I'm so glad I got to photograph at least one couple while the leaf color was still at peak.

I LOVE this old pick up truck!

Brandon sold one of his favorite tractors to buy Jenna's engagement ring.

Isn't this the cutest calf face you've ever seen?

Lydia and Natalie

2011-10-29T21:07:00.000-05:00

These cuties are near and dear to my heart. I've known their Mommy since college. It's been so fun to watch them grow over the years. I was just getting started with my business when Natalie was born and now she's in preschool! I photographed this session in Historic Downtown Hudson WI. A perfect setting for little girls wearing bright colors.

These girls have the most amazing blue eyes!

The silly and laughing family pics are always my favorites. Real life ones are always the best!

Miss Baela Rae

2011-10-29T20:49:00.000-05:00

Little Miss Baela Rae is 18 months and is so sweet and cuddly! She didn't give me super big smiles very easily. I really had to work for these couple of big smiles...

Such pretty features she has, especially her lips!

Love this one!!! This is mostly how Baela was during the session, observing my antics with a stoic expression on her face.

I love this one too, such a pretty girl!

A Country Multi-Family Session

2011-10-18T22:13:00.000-05:00

This is a great county location I can use any time I wish. It looks great anytime of year. This session was shared by two families. Something I love to do! It's a great way to get portraits of the cousins together. My sessions are 1.5hr long, which is plenty long enough to photograph several family groupings.

This is one of my all time favorite sister portraits. Absolutely precious!

The girls had to show me their super model poses, too cute!

Her curls are amazing!

This cutie does the most adorable things with her hand.

Such a cute coat!

She just turned one and had the confidence to run/stumble off in to the grass nearly as tall as her.

A growing little family

2011-10-17T19:12:00.000-05:00

Bear is going to be a big brother! His little sister is due at the end of October. I can't wait to meet her! I love the brown tones of the field. This was photographed just before the leaves started changing.

Love this toddler on the belly shot. Joy looks so beautiful again!

I've been playing with some vintage tones. Really love the look in the field setting.

He's a busy boy! Jordan and Joy are gonna have their hands full when the baby comes :)

Mark and Katie's Senior Portraits

2011-10-17T18:45:00.003-05:00

I had such a great time getting to know Katie and Mark, twins graduating in 2012. They are both so sweet and similar in some ways but very different in many others. Their summer job has been selling corn so we had to do some of their senior portraits in a corn field. I love the look of the corn field with the plaid shirts and Katie's great boots. We also went to Willow River State Park in Hudson, WI for some gorgeous greenery and the waterfall. While we were at the falls a huge snake was hanging out on a log in the water. Then it slithered off the log and swam across the water! Unbelievable!

Here is the huge snake, I think it was a bull snake. It was about 10 feet away from us. It was so cool to see it swim, at least I thought so. It definitely freaked out several people.

Katie and Mark are well known for rough housin', Katie makes Mark give her piggy back rides all the time. It was fun getting shots of them messing around.

Jeremy and Candie's Wedding

2011-10-11T22:26:00.000-05:00

Candie and Jeremy were married on 9-10-11! I had an amazing time getting to know this awesome couple over the past year. I know I must say it a lot but I really do get the best couples. Jeremy was really the best groom I've worked with. He even asked to do a few more pics because they really had some ideas of their own. And Candie... wow, she is so beautiful! Seriously, movie star gorgeous! She had such an amazing attitude through out the planning and on the wedding day.

Here is a sampling of their little white country church wedding (West Immanuel Lutheran Church in Osceola, WI and reception at R&D Catering Banquet Facility in New Richmond, WI). Love the elegance of the details! With the choice of sapphire blue (with a pop of orange), there was no shortage of something blue. One of my favorite wedding trends is brides in colored shoes.

Lily's 3rd Birthday

2011-09-17T21:42:00.000-05:00

My baby girl is 3!!! I love 3rd birthday's because it is the first birthday they actually understand what birthdays are all about. Lily was sooo excited to be 3, she would tell everyone she was having a birthday and was turning 3. We must have cake for breakfast on birthdays in our house... banana pancakes that is!

I asked Lily what kind of cake and party she wanted to have. She insisted on Jessie the cowgirl from Toy Story, who she loves! Easy enough I thought since Toy Story is huge and Jessie is a big deal. I started looking at store bought cake designs and realized only Woody and Buzz are licensed for bakeries. That wasn't going to fly for Lily. She was expecting Jessie! So I started looking online and came up with some super cute diy cowgirl birthday ideas. Party planning is not my thing, plus I had ZERO extra time for doing things myself for her party! I was busy training for the Komen 3-day and my husband was gone for 4 weeks with the National Guard. Not to mention running a business. Some how I did it! I made a 3 layered cake and frosted it! I dyed fondant black and rolled it out to make the black cow spots. I have never made a layered cake in my life.

Super yummy smore marshmallow pops, I will definitely make these again.

Can't believe my lil' bug is 3! She has turned into a sweet, sassy yet charming little girl.

Aly's Senior Session

2011-09-17T21:12:00.000-05:00

Another great downtown Stillwater, MN session. I photographed Aly's older sister a few years ago. Both girls are sweet, beautiful and smart! I love getting chosen again for senior portraits.

This one is my favorite!!! Gorgeous girl!

Gianna's Newborn Session

2011-09-17T21:04:00.000-05:00

A newborn baby girl!!! Oh how fun they are to photograph! I absolutely LOVE this one...

Awww, makes me want another baby...

Candie and Jeremy's Engagement Session

2011-09-17T20:57:00.000-05:00

I met Jeremy and Candie Downtown Stillwater, MN for their engagement session, one of my favorite places to photograph sessions. It is Candie's hometown so it was an easy choice. It was so fun to capture the love these two share.

I normally find a good amount of graffiti, but this heart was a first for me.

One of my faves!

Love this one too!

A+A+E= A Beautiful Blue-Eyed Trio

2011-06-17T00:42:00.000-05:00

Wow, these cuties have gorgeous blue eyes! I had fun getting to know these super sweet and well behaved kids!

Alexa and Tim's Engagement Session

2011-06-17T00:31:00.000-05:00

Alexa and Tim met me in Downtown Stillwater for their engagement session. I love how connected they were during the session. It's so great to work with a couple that is comfortable being affectionate even in a busy downtown setting. It was fun spending time with them, looking forward to their wedding!

Spring Sessions

2011-04-30T22:07:00.001-05:00

Spring Sessions in Downtown Hudson

Saturday May 21st 9am- 4pm

Greatly reduced session fee and portrait packages!

Enjoy a 45 minute session in Historic Downtown Hudson featuring vividly colored buildings, historic charm, scenic water and greenery.

Packages including session fee:

#1 11x14 float wrap, 5-5x7 prints $325

#2 11x14 print, 5-5x7 prints, 8-wallets $275

#3 8x10 print, 4-5x7 prints, 2 accordion folios $225

#4 8x10 print, 3-5x7 prints $150

Additional portraits discounted 10% off the following prices...

11x14 $75, 8x10 $30, 5x7 $20, 4x6 $15

Session Availability:

9am

10am

11am

12pm BOOKED

1pm

2pm

3pm

4pm

Payment due at booking. Please note the session time you are booking.

In case of a rain out June 11th is the backup date.

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Spring Sessions

2010: A Year of Changes

2011-04-25T15:45:00.000-05:00

2010 was a year of big changes. My husband Robbie joined the MN National Guard!

A year ago, April 14th, was one of the hardest days of my life. The kids and I said goodbye to Robbie as he left for Army Basic Combat Training. He would be gone for 5 months for basic training and AIT (job training). Even though we spent a lot of time discussing this huge decision, I really couldn't for see how hard it would be to say goodbye. Especially how hard it would be for Eli, he cried so hard for a long time. It was a really rough couple of days adjusting.

And then we got an offer on the house and I packed up and moved while he was at basic training. Thankfully I had some help from family and friends. I know basic training is hard, really hard, but moving on my own... that was hard too in addition to my busy season of weddings and portrait photography.

Pictures of our charming old home. Our first home where our sweet lil family started... I especially miss the kids' room. My brother, Jeremy, painted it beautifully in outdoor wall murals.

We counted down the days with a paper chain for the last month basic training. Surviving 10 weeks of basic was hard. Robbie was in a really tough company and only got to call home 4-5 times once training started and the phone calls where super short!

We flew out to Fort Jackson in SC for BCT Graduation. We were so excited to finally see Robbie! The kids did great. Due to weather our first flight was slightly delayed and we had to run through the airport to try to catch the connecting flight, we made it barely. Flying home was much worse, won't fly alone again with the kids for a few years unless I have to.

A tired little man on the night before, very excited to see his Daddy. Last wake up!!!

Robbie's mom came too. We are anxiously waiting to see Robbie. At 8am it was already ridiculously hot and humid, it was over 100 the days we were in SC and VA.

A very exciting entrance

The soldiers had to stand at attention until they were found by their family. It was really hard to find him! He was in the middle back. When I found him it was hard to be sure it was him from his profile. When I shouted his name I honestly wasn't sure it was him, thankfully it was!!!

Thanks to facebook I got to know other wives of soldiers in Robbie's platoon. It was so great to be able to make new friends going through the same challenges. This is a friend's daughter looking at her Daddy while the guys lined up for a group shot, adorable!

Words can't even express how proud I am! It was so amazing to see our hero. It was a very short time together but we all needed it. After 2 days it was time to drop him off in Virginia for AIT (advanced individual training) at Fort Lee. Saying goodbye again was so hard.

Going through the 5 months apart was hard but I realized that I can handle it. If he deploys it might be harder because its longer but I won't have to go through selling a house and moving on my own. After another 10 weeks of AIT we went to the airport to wait for Daddy to arrive.

I was so emotional it was hard to get any good pictures, but I still love this one!

Very happy to be living in a new house (our old house was built in 1920's) with closets!!! One of them is filled with his army stuff!

Any military family will tell you what makes a soldier a hero is sacrifice. Missing Lily talking, Eli riding a bike, hockey games, days at the park and birthdays... Now I think often of two friends recently deployed to Afghanistan. And of their families waiting for them to return home safely.

Let me know if you want to include anything in a care package, we will be sending lots. Also for the wives and children of the soldiers... I feel they don't receive nearly enough recognition for the amazing work they do during deployments.

Portrait Session Giveaway

2011-03-29T21:06:00.000-05:00

PORTRAIT SESSION GIVEAWAY

You know a family...

A family that has experienced tragedy, or maybe is struggling to stay afloat.
Sadly we all know someone. Maybe you know someone who gives selflessly. I want to hear their story!

I will be giving away a portrait session and a $100 portrait credit to a deserving family.
The person who nominates the winning family receives a $50 gift certificate.

Email me the full story: info@dominiquenelsonphotography.com
Deadline is April 15th.

Little Man Luken

2011-02-25T17:20:00.000-06:00

Luken was just starting to walk last time I photographed him, now I can hardly keep up to him! He had fun jumping on his bed and playing trains, such a great way to get portraits done in the winter months.

I love how Luken climbs on the table and lays his head down to get a good look at the wheels. My little boy did the same thing with his trains when he was this age.

I wonder how Luken's pictures turned out :)

Lily's 2 Year Portrait Session

2011-02-21T21:29:00.001-06:00

My lil' bug's 2 year portraits! Ok so she is now over 2 1/2, but still had to add them. Besides having slightly longer hair she looks the same. Fine by me... since she's my last she can stay little forever :)

My Family

2010-12-31T20:45:00.008-06:00

In November I had some time to squeeze in my own family for some portraits. We went to Historic Downtown Hudson. Knoke's Chocolates just happened to perfectly match the kids' clothes. I had planned on doing a candy portrait session in the coming years but ended up doing it on this day instead. After the kids spotted all the goodies inside I couldn't help but take a break for treats!

This one cracks me up!

My wonderful wedding assistant, Maria, photographed these family portraits.

Jordan, Joy and Bear

2010-12-31T20:40:00.006-06:00

Bear has turned into a super busy toddler! Wasn't he just a sweet lil' sleeping newborn??? He is so adorable!

Scarlet and Noah's Big Beautiful Family!

2010-12-31T20:39:00.011-06:00

As a mom of two kiddos, a family of 5 kids seems so big to me (even though I'm one of 4 siblings)! Scarlet and Noah have an amazing family. This session was surprising easy, probably because I was speed shooting... the sun was setting fast.

3 year old girls always have the best poses!

Grace's Newborn Session

2010-12-31T20:39:00.006-06:00

One of the most rewarding parts of being a photographer is capturing the sweetest life moments. I was honored to photograph Grace's Mommy and Daddy's wedding in 2008. They were so happy to be marrying each other that nothing else mattered that day. One of the most relaxed brides I've ever worked with. Seeing the two of them become parents is a truly special moment. I, along with all who know them, congratulate them on the arrival of this precious baby girl. I know they will enjoy all the sweet moments of their parenthood journey!

Love newborn smiles!

A new retro look I'm trying...

Trisha's Senior Portraits

2010-11-30T22:43:00.006-06:00

I photographed Trisha's senior portrait session in Historic Downtown Stillwater. She was fantastic to photograph. Trisha has a love of fashion and is a dancer too! Two things that make my job fun and easy!

Beautiful!

I love downtown Stillwater, great buildings... love this window!

Jamie and Glen's Trash the Dress Session

2010-10-31T22:58:00.016-05:00

I have the best brides! Jamie had planned on trashing her dress before she even started shopping for a photographer. When she contacted me and asked how to include a trash the dress session into my pricing, I was thrilled! The wedding ceremony was held in the yard of her parents cabin on Cedar Lake in New Richmond, WI. The following day we met again and Jamie and Glen took the plunge.

Here is the sequence from their first jump...

Love this one!

Love this sequence too!

Another favorite!

Most of the wedding party was with me in the second boat suggesting ideas and dive techniques. So they jumped again and again, perfecting their timing. I must mention we spectators were bundled up in jackets and blankets on a brisk September day.

This was so much fun for me to shoot! Lots of brides don't mind doing a session after their wedding since the dress gets so dirty at the reception anyway, but this was a photographer's dream! I love that Jamie was willing to jump in the lake that she grew up on. And the dress turned just fine.

The Michaels Family

2010-10-31T22:58:00.015-05:00

My favorite clients, the Michaels Family welcome their second child... Lucas! Ms. Izzy is such a great big sister. I can't believe time has gone so fast, I photographed Izabelle's newborn session and she was a tiny lil' preemie peanut. Luke is much bigger but just as adorable!

Daddy is a drag racer and it was so amazing to use his car for this session!

I love this! The contrast of tiny baby, big tire and the curving lines.

Love, love, love it... Can't even express how much fun it was!

Ms. Izzy poses like this on her own!

Ryan, Shannon and Max

2010-10-31T22:56:00.008-05:00

Shannon and Ryan are recently engaged. We got some great engagement shots and some of Shannon's son, Max and all three of them. It was one of the amazingly beautiful October Sundays. We had planned on meeting at Interstate Park in Taylors Falls. When I arrived I couldn't find a single parking spot in the entire town. It was crazy busy! So we decided to go with different location... Cascade Falls in Osceola, WI. It was busy there too but MUCH better. Glad I got a chance to go there again, it's been years.

Trevor's Senior Portraits

2010-10-31T22:09:00.005-05:00

Another great senior guy session in downtown Stillwater, MN. Trevor brought some great clothes and I love the shades and hat. Its been a great season for senior portraits.

Joe's Senior Portraits and Family too

2010-10-23T00:21:00.006-05:00

Senior portraits are great for getting portraits of the family. I always include family members in senior sessions, no extra charge. This family took advantage of getting family portraits too in a great location, Downtown Stillwater, MN.

I had a great time getting to know Joe. Another young man enlisting. Joe will be off to basic training after graduation as an 11 bravo with the Army National Guard. That's infantry! His parents are so proud and supportive. Thank you Joe for the commitment you are making to serving!

Vanessa & Jon's Wedding

2010-10-16T11:47:00.010-05:00

Vanessa and Jon's ceremony and reception were at the Round Barn in Red Wing, MN. What a great location! The wedding had a vintage glamour feel. I love the unique details... the peacock feathers, the dangling flower boxes for the bridesmaids (all floral by Kissing 2 Lips), the table settings. I love Vanessa's old Hollywood glamour look. Beautiful!

I love how Vanessa and Jon kissed the ring and then placed it on each other's hearts during the ring exchange.

I love this praying shot!

A photo booth operated by a photographer is a new feature I'm offering at weddings. We had a blast! Originally I planned on using a background but I loved the old stone wall of the barn as a background much better.

Congrats Jon and Vanessa! What a great wedding! Wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness!

Beckman Family

2010-10-12T20:45:00.007-05:00

The Beckman Family met me Downtown Stillwater for some family portraits. I had fun getting to know these sweet kids. Ryan joined the Army Reserves not too long ago and my husband just joined the Army National Guard. It was cool to find out they both attended the same Fort for Basic Training. Jen could relate to the past 6 months of my life. Such a great family and a great session!

Honoring Gretchen

2010-10-12T16:59:00.006-05:00

Gretchen has been battling cancer. It was a joy to meet her! Her niece Jessica is a previous client of mine. Jessica decided to get together the family for some portraits.

A lovely portrait of Gretchen:

Gretchen with her great nieces and great nephew:

Love these laughing faces! Gretchen with her nieces, great nieces and great nephew:

Of course I had to get some shots of the adorable kiddos.

Jamie and Glen's Wedding

2010-10-02T11:53:00.007-05:00

Jamie and Glen planned a fantastic wedding oozing with country goodness. I am truly impressed with all the unique details. The ceremony took place at Jamie's parents cabin on Cedar Lake in Western Wisconsin. The reception was held at the Blue Horse Farm in New Richmond. It was a pleasure to work with wedding coordinator Elizabeth Anne. The whole day came together wonderfully, thanks to the time and talent of many friends and family.

Jamie and Glen had their rings designed by a Jeweler blocks away from their home in Salt Lake City.

This wedding was DIY in so many ways... Jamie's pearls were strung by a bridesmaid. Jamie made the bridesmaids shawls. Nothing cookie-cutter about this wedding!

A single tear falls down her cheek. You may have to double click on it to see it larger.

Pretty sure these are the most happy and comfortable groomsmen I've ever photographed. I love the sweater vests instead of tuxes!

The reception at the Blue Horse Farm had a comfortable country charm feel.

Guests enjoyed croquet, bocce ball and a variety of other yard games...

Glen and the bestman made a variety of home brew.

Dinner was a buffet of hearty soups and breads...

And of course the coasters were handmade.

Congrats Jamie and Glen! Wishing you a lifelong friendship and happiness! Thank you for allowing me to capture your charming wedding.

Lillyana's Newborn Session

2010-09-20T18:36:00.007-05:00

I am so excited! This fall several of my previous brides are expecting. Lillyana is the first of these babies I've had a chance to meet. Congrats Amanda and Dan! What a beautiful family you have!

Trey is such a great big brother!

Jami's Senior Portrait Session

2010-09-20T15:47:00.006-05:00

I had a great time photographing Jami's senior portraits at Nicollet Island and St. Anthony in Minneapolis. It was my first time shooting a session on the St. Anthony side of the Mississippi. It is a great location! Historical, urban, water and the Minneapolis skyline all within walking distance.

Vanessa & Jon's Engagement Session

2010-09-20T14:19:00.007-05:00

Since I'm behind on blogging I'm actually posting this session a few days after Jon and Vanessa's wedding. What an amazing wedding it was! I photographed this session in Cannon Falls MN. They just bought their first house there, the first couple of shots were taken across the street from their house. I'm sure they are enjoying being newlyweds living in their new home since most of their engagement they spent living in different states.

I had so much fun playing with the setting sun, I love how these turned out!

Bailey's One Year Portraits

2010-09-20T13:13:00.004-05:00

I can't believe how fast the first year goes! I photographed Bailey when she was a newborn and here she is already running all over the place. It was certainly easier when she couldn't get away from me. She is full of personality and knows what she wants and when she wants it! I love how she was so into the dirt, wood chips and sticks. She could care less about the flowers and butterflies in the gardens. Quite suiting since we photographed some newborn portraits on the hood of her Daddy's Chevelle...
http://dominiquenelsonphotography.blogspot.com/2009/07/baileys-newborn-portraits.html

Jamie and Glen's Engagement Session

2010-08-31T16:48:00.004-05:00

Jamie and Glen are getting married Saturday! It was great to be able to fit a quick engagement session before the wedding. They live in Salt Lake City so they've been planning their wedding from afar. We met downtown Stillwater and wandered around for a short time...

My favorite shots of the Stillwater Liftbridge are ones like these that show just a small part of the bridge. Love the lines!

Since we needed to sit down and discuss the wedding day we found a cold beer and air conditioning! This is one of my favorite shots!

William, Lainey and Manny

2010-08-30T14:10:00.011-05:00

I had a great time getting to know these amazing kids! It was also great to see their inspiring Mommy again! I knew her way back before marriage and kids. I photographed this family in their home and yard. I love the kids' rooms!

This sweet lil' chunker is Manny!

Ms. Lainey has no problem shining in the middle of 2 boys!

What fun it is to let kids jump on their beds for pictures!

William is starting Kindergarten and seems to be on his way to becoming an engineer.

I LOVE this one!!!

Danielle's Senior Portraits

2010-08-29T18:09:00.006-05:00

Danielle drove over an hour to do her session in Hudson. Very early in the morning, and what a morning it was. Finally cool and we finished just as it started to rain. Hudson is such a great location for senior portraits. Within a several block radius you get urban, cool alleys, a beach, and greenery too.

A garden in an alley? Yep! Only in Hudson!

Cole's Senior Portraits

2010-08-29T17:32:00.008-05:00

I met Cole at Interstate Park on a ridiculously hot and humid day. At one point when we entered a heavily wooded area and it felt like the temp raised 5 degrees! Crazy! After getting some great nature shots we went to a few spots in downtown Taylors Falls, MN. Somehow Cole did amazing, it had to have been the hottest day I've ever dealt with for a session.

Love the huge rocks and trees at interstate!

Lauren and Landon

2010-08-16T21:00:00.008-05:00

I'm so glad I got to photograph these cuties again! We met at the Roseville Arboretum and had to cut the session short because of a storm rolling in. Actually the last time I photographed Lauren and Landon the session ended in rain that day too. Thankfully we got some great shots! I love the shots of the kids playing in the fountain. I guess either way, rain or fountain, the kids were going to get wet.

Michelle and Jason's Wedding

2010-08-12T22:45:00.008-05:00

I am truly so honored to be chosen to photograph a couple's wedding... Especially this one!

Michelle and Jason had an amazing wedding ceremony on the Superior North Shore in Northern Minnesota. We hiked out to Shovel Point and they recited their vows as the clouds cleared above them.

The view from the bride's room at Cove Point Lodge. Literally steps away from Lake Superior. The rain and clouds started to clear...

Michelle bought an assortment of flowers and put together the bouquets the morning of the wedding day.

The first look. Love Jason's face!

Thank you Michelle and Jason, it was a photographer's dream wedding! Congratulations! Wishing you a lifetime of love and friendship!

Reid's Newborn Session

2010-08-10T15:15:00.004-05:00

This adorable little guy is Reid. LOVE his name! He stayed awake for the entire session, which is very rare for a newborn session. This was a great session, we got great light in front of a patio door for a classic look with a black background. Then we did some on the dining room wood floor. We even made it outside for a few in the yard.

Erin and Tim's Wedding

2010-08-06T17:13:00.011-05:00

Erin and Tim were married at The St. Paul College Club on Summit Avenue in St. Paul, MN. My favorite weddings are weddings like this one. A gorgeous outdoor ceremony plus all the charm of the mansion too. Erin and Tim, their family and wedding party were amazing to work with. Here are some of my favorites...

This has to be one of the prettiest Bride's room I've ever photographed.

The ring bearer was so cute! He hid his face with the pillow but kept walking!

Love Erin's choice of hot pink. It looks so great with green!

So heels might not be the best for a garden wedding but they sure do make for a great shot. All the girls ditched their shoes for their walk back down the aisle.

LOVE this one!

Congrats Tim and Erin! It was an absolute pleasure to be apart of your day! Wishing you a lifetime of love, laughter and friendship.

Introducing Ava Selene

2010-08-06T17:10:00.007-05:00

My another niece! Miss Ava Selene... Weighing in at 10 lbs 5 oz!!! Oh how I love chubby babies! Here is her adorable birth announcement...

I love this one! Notice how she barely fits into my basket.

Introducing Baela Rae

2010-04-21T22:16:00.002-05:00

Meet my newest niece Baela Rae. Isn't she adorable? Maybe I'm biased but wow she's is so cute! I love her lips! Chubby babies are the cutest! Baela weighed in at 9lbs 7oz.

I love my new cocoon, my latest find on etsy.

Jeremy and Brianne- Congrats on a beautiful girl! The biggest blessing you'll know! Love you guys!

Best of 2009 Contest

2010-03-01T09:48:00.006-06:00

Best of 2009 Contest started last week and will continue over the next several weeks. This year the contest will be on Facebook. Please vote and become a fan. Look for the link to my Facebook fan page on the right side of the blog.

Babies Category- 2/22-2/28

Kids Category- 3/1-3/7
Couples Category 3/8-3/14

Wedding Category 3/15- 3/21

Seniors Category 3/22- 3/29

Congrats to the Best of 2009 Contest winners...

Luken

Izzy

Tim and Erin

Scarlet and Noah

Lindsay

Michelle and Jason's Engagement Session

2010-02-21T15:09:00.006-06:00

Michelle and Jason are getting married this July in Tettegouche State Park, which is north of Duluth. I am so excited for their wedding, it will be so beautiful! They love spending time outdoors and they really wanted to do some winter engagement pics. The weather actually was really nice on our first choice of days. I photographed this session in the area around Lake Como in St. Paul, MN.

I can't believe the luck we had! As we approached a bridge we spotted a red-tailed hawk perched on the railing. I posed them looking at each other and asked them to side step very slowly towards the hawk. I expected that they would take a step or two and hawk would fly off. It didn't! They got within 12 feet or so and Jason says "I think this is as close as we should get". I agreed! At this point there were 4 other people with us on the bridge getting a close up look at this beautiful bird. What an amazing experience!

Bear's 6 Month Portrait Session

2010-02-16T21:31:00.005-06:00

I can't believe how adorable Bear is. His big brown eyes are AMAZING! Six months is such a fun age to do portraits, so many new milestones.

Such a sweet face!

Love the tongue!

Oh my, LOVE this one! Bear even knows how cute he is, Dad's not bad looking either.

Expecting Baela

2010-02-11T10:02:00.003-06:00

Brianne and Jeremy are expecting their first baby in just a few weeks. A day that can't come soon enough. Just as we finished the session Brianne says... ok now she can come. I can't wait to meet Baela!

This is one of my favorites...

Brianne's tatoo looks really good on her adorable baby bump!

Love this one!

Gorgeous!

Kendall's 2 Year Portrait Session

2009-11-30T23:50:00.005-06:00

This sweet little girl is Kendall. I photographed her session WAY back in October in downtown Stillwater. Her amazing mom is battling Lymphoma and Kendall's dad decided to secretively have me photograph Kendall. I can't wait till I have the opportunity to do a family session!

Michaels' Family Portraits

2009-11-30T22:45:00.004-06:00

I photographed the Michaels family's yearly session at the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis. I love how well the clothes go with the black and white pattern. I will have fun designing their Christmas card.

Izzy is so sweet!

What a beautiful place, perfect for a little girl dancing!

Max's 5 year Portraits

2009-11-30T22:00:00.001-06:00

This adorable little man is Max. He was so sweet and fun to photograph. We went to the Mill City Museum and Guthrie area in Minneapolis.

Love this one, Max is so cute!

Love these action shots...

Mandy and Jerry's Engagement Session

2009-11-30T20:41:00.008-06:00

I've known Mandy and Jerry for several years and had so much fun photographing this session downtown Stillwater. I love how comfortable and affectionate they were in front of the camera.

I LOVE this building! It has such a rustic country feel, conveniently located downtown Stillwater.

What a great guy! Even with an audience Jerry was willing to try anything. We were downtown on a busy fall weekend. AND he was missing the 1st half of the Packer game.

I am so excited to hear about the details of Mandy and Jerry's wedding. Keep me posted!!!

Lydia and Natalie's Portrait Session

2009-11-29T20:43:00.006-06:00

I've been so lucky to know these beautiful girls since birth! I photographed Lydia and Natalie downtown Stillwater. Nothing's sweeter than 2 little girls whispering secrets, playing ring around the rosie and cuddling...

I LOVE this one!!! The curls and lashes, oh my!

Brittany and Mark

2009-11-29T20:21:00.006-06:00

Here is another adorable young couple in love. I photographed Brittany and Mark downtown Stillwater on another beautiful fall day.

Their bracelets are in memory of a dear friend...

My Family

2009-11-18T10:10:00.005-06:00

My wonderful second shooter for weddings, Maria, photographed these first four family shots in downtown Stillwater. I love this one...

My little man... Eli is already 5!

Lily turned one in August and is tough to keep up with.

Mitch's Senior Portrait Session

2009-11-17T15:24:00.007-06:00

I had some serious luck the day I photographed Mitch's senior portraits downtown Stillwater. It literally rained an slight drizzle on my drive to meet Mitch. At the end of the session I said to him "I think we have enough" it started raining again. I should have bought a lottery ticket that day!!! I had a great time photographing Mitch, he made my job so easy. I've certainly had great luck this season with guys that have a great attitude about being photographed.

One of my favs!!!

I love how the football ones turned out!

Erin and Tim's Engagement Session

2009-10-30T12:38:00.006-05:00

I photographed Erin and Tim's engagement session downtown Stillwater. It was a rare nice October day. I had a great time getting to know them and I am SO looking forward to their wedding in July.

What an adorable couple!

I love the historical charm of the buildings downtown Stillwater.

When I was shooting the shot above of Erin and Tim's legs I glance up at their faces and saw this gorgeous shot...

Tim even changed into a dress shirt and tie, what a guy!

Cassandra and Adam

2009-10-30T12:20:00.005-05:00

I've had the pleasure of knowing Cassy for several years. My kids adore her too! We went downtown Stillwater for a portrait session. I had a great time getting to know Adam better. I feel that there may be a proposal in their near future!

I love this one! They are so sweet together!

We had to get a few shots of the family.

We were right by the veterans memorial and I spotted Chance's name. What's the chance of that? Ha! Nice looking paws!

This is how Chancey snuggles, too cute!

Young Love

2009-10-26T16:04:00.006-05:00

Elly was one of my Best of 2008 Contest winners. She she decided to use her winnings for a session with her boyfriend Derek. We went downtown Stillwater and I had so much fun with this fun loving couple. They are playful and so adorable!

I love this sequence!!!

Amy and Kyle's Portrait Session

2009-10-26T10:12:00.005-05:00

I photographed Amy and Kyle's wedding last October. They really wanted to have some family portraits so we met again to include their adorable little dogs. Amy had dreamed of colorful fall leaves for her wedding. Unfortunately last year the leaves were still pretty green on their wedding day, but thankfully the weather was fantastic. This year we definitely got the beautiful fall color at Willow River State Park in Hudson, WI.

More Stillwater Sessions

2009-10-21T14:07:00.004-05:00

Last chance for fall portraits!
I will be photographing more 45 minute sessions in Downtown Stillwater Saturday 10-24-09. See the next post for more details.

Available Sessions:
1:00
2:00
3:00
4:00

Call me at 612-203-3025 to schedule your session.

Stillwater Portrait Sessions

2009-10-14T13:54:00.008-05:00

The weather has been terrible for portrait sessions lately, but the weather forecast for this Saturday looks great! In an effort to schedule all of you who have been planning on doing fall portraits I am scheduling several sessions in Downtown Stillwater this Saturday (10-17-09).

This is a great way to get professional portraits at a GREATLY reduced session rate. The session fee is $60 for any number of people. Each session will last 45 minutes. There is a $100 minimum print order commitment for each session due at the time of booking. Sessions are limited, so call today!

612-203-3025

Available sessions:

9:30am

10:30am

2:30pm

3:30pm

4:30pm

These sessions would be great for kids, families, seniors, couples, anyone! Holiday cards look awesome with portraits taken downtown Stillwater.

Byrce's Senior Portrait Session

2009-10-11T20:44:00.010-05:00

The first 2010 senior guy I've photographed this season. Bryce did great, if only all guys could be this easy to photograph! We weren't going to let a rainy day stop us again. It was cold and it rained on and off for a few hours. Every time the rain lightened up we resumed shooting. Even if it meant I was under an umbrella and Bryce was is the rain. I photographed this session in the St. Croix Falls and Taylors Falls area.

I LOVE these shots of Bryce in his football gear. Thanks Bryce for going along with all my ideas and getting rained on!

Emily's Senior Portraits

2009-10-05T13:47:00.006-05:00

I photographed Emily's senior session downtown Hudson. She has a great sense of fashion and I had so much fun with the clothes and accessories she brought along.

Seems like this wall was made for this fun dress.

Love these red shoes!

LOVE this one!

Love how elegant Emily looks with her bangs pulled back, especially with the pearls.

We trashed the formal with Emily's prom dress from last year.

Emily's mom thought it would be great if she climbed up into this tree. I was very impressed with Emily's ability to move and pose in the tree in a poofy dress.

Emily's Senior Portrait Session

2009-09-17T15:23:00.005-05:00

I photographed Emily's senior portraits Downtown Hudson. It was a great morning session! After having weeks of cold weather it was nice to enjoy a warm morning. Emily's beautiful smile totally matches her bright personality.

Like many of us, Emily wasn't sure she could do the serious look. She nailed it in this one!

Joanna's Senior Portrait Session

2009-09-17T15:11:00.006-05:00

Another great senior session in Downtown Hudson and at the beach on the St. Croix. Joanna has such a sparkling smile. I love this first shot, love her blond hair with the stone. I applied a warm cocoa effect which suits her perfectly.

Lafferty Family Portraits

2009-08-18T22:16:00.005-05:00

I photographed the Lafferty family at Como. They had to put up with the hot humid weather and even a slight drizzle yet they still look gorgeous.

Landon was happy just as long as Daddy played with him and held him just right. Sometimes dads have that magic touch.

I LOVE this one!!! Lauren is 2 and the best thing in the world to a 2 year old is to be chased.

Lauren has the most amazing blue eyes, wow!