Mindy Sue Photography

I and love and you

2012-01-27T18:38:00.000-08:00

She cries a lot!! I so don't mind it. I know now after four kids that this too shall pass. And I will forget her smell and her warmth. I will forget how small her fingers are and how much I love her twitchy smile while she sleeps. I am so in LOVE with this baby. In Oli's prayers tonight he prayed that he would hold Stella more so that mom could get more cleaning done. Nice. I am unfortunately anticipating the time when she wont cry all the time. Sleep my baby, and when you wake up screaming I will feed you and when we are done nursing and cuddling you will stare at me and up into the sky with your big beautiful eyes. You will begin screaming again and I will wrap you in a soft warm blanket tight like in a cocoon and rock you to sleep.

My birthing story

2012-01-25T12:59:00.000-08:00

I posted my birthing story on my personal blog and for some reason I feel impressed to post it here. It is very personal and in great detail. My intentions with sharing this is to show women that there are options to their experiences. That they have a say and a voice in how their babies come into this world. That sometimes Mama knows best.
Late Wednesday the 21 my water broke while I was sleeping "tossing and turning". For those of you that have not been pregnant yet in the last month sleeping is like running hurdles. You have to completely sit up to roll over and that is done several times a night. Also the peeing is non stop. So as I was "resting" I noticed that I was leaking. Not a lot. Just enough to produce a question. Things got worse when I awoke for the morning. I called my midwife and she had me come in to do a paper test. If it is amniotic fluid the paper turns purple. If it is the baby needs to be delivered within 24 hours to avoid possible infection. In our case the paper turned purple and we were informed we would be having a baby that day one way or anther. As the water flow was very miner we were told to go do some walking to try to induce more contractions. So after taking care of the kids and packing a bag, yes I was nine days late and still didn't have a bag packed, my genius husband suggested we go walk around Costco. We get there and the contractions are there but far apart. We walk for about ten minutes when my water totally escapes. Nice. I am standing there completely soaked and Logan says, "I guess you had better get to the hospital. Why don't you go get in the car and I will finish up here." So after he made his important purchases of the necessities like a giant box of batteries and a beanbag, we headed off to the holistic birthing center.

The name is a little deceiving because it's really only one room in a hospital but it is wickedly cool. It has a Jacuzzi tub the size of a king size mattress that has colored lights that flash. Hated those. A fridge and microwave, a couch and recliner and a flat screen tv. It was nice they also had a place for Logan to stay, had he have been able to have stayed (mom was back in Idaho). Normally the poor Dads get the shaft.
We arrived around 2 and did various activities to get labor contractions going. At 4 my midwife showed up, and I was 80% effaced and only dilated to a 3. So we labored more. The contractions got more intense and I was ever so grateful for Logan and his support. I relied on him a lot and he was wonderful. As the time went the contractions got stronger and I kept thinking, "Why the HELL did I opt to do this natural again? I remembered how shitty it was the first time so why do I feel the need to experience it this way again?"
I think the answer to that question is that I know what kind of experience I wanted to have this time. It only took me four times to learn that I was in charge of my experience. Not a doctor, not a nurse. I just needed to find someone who thought like me, to help me make my desires a real experience. I didn't want to be attached to cords and needles and iv bags or feel like I was in an operating room with all the lights and people in a cold sterol environment with people using words like scapel, epesiodomy, suction or forceps. I.E. Oliver's delivery. I also knew that I wanted to be aware and apart of my experience and not drugged or needing a pee bag. I.E. Tulie's experience. And I wanted it to be my choice to go natural, not like with Sawyer delivery, unprepared and scared to death.
I wanted quiet and freedom to move and breath and be. I wanted to change position when I wanted to. To walk or sit or lay and not be hindered by the cords and the beeping and the monitoring. Don't get me wrong, the nurse did monitor the baby but only as needed. I wanted soft light and music and my thoughts and my breathing and my husband to help me. And great-fully that is what I got.
I labored in the tub for an hour or so with Logan, my helpmate distracting me with stories and letting me rest on him in between contractions. I then transitioned to the bed as I was so tired and didn't feel I was resting well in between contractions in the tub. Logan was so helping and supportive every step of the way. I can't say enough what an amazing support he was for me. Once in the bed I was checked and pronounced to be at a 9 and 100% effaced. Horrified because I was at a 9 for three hours with Sawyer I began to panic that the baby wasn't ever going to come. My midwife informed me she wasn't going to sit there and wait for three more hours stuck her fingers in and told me to push. I wanted to kick her and would have had another nurse and Logan not had a hold of my legs. Whatever the hell she was doing hurt so amazingly bad, I knew I couldn't stand it again. So I told myself the pain would stop as soon as I got that baby out. So I pushed, not caring if she ripped me in two and in one push she was out.
They laid her on my chest and left her there until I was ready. They did not poke her, scrub her, stab her with a needle or do their little 1-5 test. They didn't subject her to bright lights or scales or being rushed about. They just left her there with me. To hold and love and be. I think that was the best part. Having her there, with me and her Daddy.
I am not courageous enough to deliver at home but this is a close second. Yes it was both traumatizing and wonderful. I was able to be calm and let my body be strong and be amazing and I am great-full.

Stella Noel Lamprecht was born at 8pm 20 inches long weighing 7 pounds 9 ounces. Welcome daughter.

Guest books

2012-01-23T12:51:00.000-08:00

Guest books have gone far beyond just a simple book with lines for each of your guests to sign. Many brides and grooms are asking their guests for a much more personal guest book at today's weddings. Having the guests give advise is very common. Whether the advise be written on Mad-Libs, post cards, corks, wine bottles, rocks, or on small sheets of paper and then placed in envelopes each style is unique and special. Some have even had guest sign Jenga blocks as a special way to reminisce when playing the game. Many are having their guest sign a boarder around their picture, a simple but classy paper that looks lovely in a frame, plates to hang in the dining room, a monogram letter for the entrance way, their name on their birthday so you always remember, or a quilt square. What will you be asking your guests to sign for you to remember they were a special part of your big day?

Credits:
Create My Event, Creating Really Awesome Free Things, Divine Party Concepts,
Etsy, Martha Stewart Weddings, Poptastic Bride, Ruffles Blog, Wedding Window, and Weddingish

Fall weddings

2012-01-19T12:25:00.000-08:00

Forgive me for procrastinating!! This wedding was shot shortly before Stella was born and I totally forgot to post it. Aren't the lights awesome!!! It was so nice and sunny that day. Strange this Ohio weather. They were pretty lucky to get warm sunshine in November! I will post more images soon. Thank you for all your patience!

Stella at 3 weeks

2012-01-14T20:30:00.000-08:00

This is my baby Stella at three weeks old. She is a doll. Nursing is coming along a lot better. She is sleeping well awakening 3x a night or so to eat. Sometimes I think she looks like an alien and then other times I think she is the cutest thing.
Tulie and I fight over who gets to hold her all the time.
Sawyer has developed a little temper and that has been hard. He bit me today and refused to let go. He gets this ornery face on sometimes and shouts "no me wont" whenever he is asked to do something he doesn't want to do. Two minutes later he is telling me how much he loves me and thinks my hair looks beautiful.
Oliver is ready like a mad man and loves to make random guesses about quantities and other random things. He will say things like "I bet when you were ten you only read 123,456 pages out of chapter books. I on the other hand have read about 5.7 times that many." He is a little smarty pants.
Tulie has been doing swell and I am truly grateful for her help with Stella. She adore her little sister and I like that.
Daddy is super overwhelmed with all the kids we have and often refers to our home as a zoo. I hope he survives the transition.
I on the other hand am sooo thankful for Logans long break and thank God that he has been here to help me. I honestly think he saved me from some certain postpartum. Thanks babe.

American Greetings

2012-01-11T11:19:00.000-08:00

American greetings contacted me to do a little shoot for their website to display their cards. It was so much fun. A little stress-filled as it was raining all week and I had a week old baby. It rained as I set up the table and then I knocked the whole thing over. I forgot the hot cocoa and the ground was so muddy. But we did get a few not worthy shots. While you scroll down notice the mouth watering baked goods courtesy of Mrs. P's Gluten Free Bakery. So good so good. I was super nervous to send in the images but it all went well and they loved them. I will post a link as soon as they go up on their website.

Flower girls

2012-01-08T18:48:00.000-08:00

Flower girls are always adorable no matter how they are dressed or what they carry down the aisle so why not think outside the box and have fun with the little ones in your wedding. Of course, the flower girl’s basket can be made just right for your style but a traditional basket with flower petals is not the only option in today’s weddings. Many brides are going a different route and having their flower girls carry a simple bouquet, a ribbon wand, a sign that says “Here Comes the Bride”, or even your favorite little puppy! If you have a special person that is just a little too small having them ride down the aisle in a wagon is cute as well! Don’t forget, no one said there has to be just on flower girl either! Many people are having multiple flower girls, including the Royal Wedding last year. Have fun creating the perfect “Aww” moment for your little flower girl.

Credits:

Alicia Crosson, Bridal Blog, Emily G Photography, Etsy, Fancy Pants Weddings, Green Wedding Shoes, KT Merry, Maihar Design, Something Blue 22, and Wedding By Color

Pummeled

2012-01-02T07:48:00.000-08:00

I love this picture!! It totally represents the whole atmosphere in our home. Stella is trying to sleep, Tulie teaching her patty cake and the Oli getting pummeled by his little brother. I like that this is our home.

Hello stranger

2011-12-30T21:12:00.001-08:00

Still here. Not all here. Just alive. I will be back soon and I have a fun shoot to share. Maybe, if baby Stella lets me sleep tonight. I wouldn't hold my breath.

Waiting

2011-12-16T15:42:00.000-08:00

This is me. Stella is late and we are relaxing, very impatiently I might add. Come see us baby girl.

Cleveland family photographer

2011-12-15T12:38:00.000-08:00

I would pay a LOT to have this little boys hair!!! Isn't he the cutest thing? He was an angel the whole shoot. If only every child were loved as much as this little guy the world would be a different place.

Still no Stella

2011-12-14T13:55:00.000-08:00

Well it is two longs days past my due date. Which so would not at all be a problem if my mom wasn't here for such a limited time. I took caster oil today. Not a good idea!!! I have a sick mess every which way!!! And no baby!!! So I thought I would send out a little love I made my girlfriend for Christmas. Enjoy and send me a little "get out baby" energy if you have a second.

No rush

2011-12-09T11:43:00.001-08:00

These were made by a sweet friend of mine. Baby Stella, let us hope you don't have Mama's feet!

Eco friendly wedding board!

2011-12-08T06:10:00.001-08:00

The world is filled with eco-friendly tips lately so why not make one of the most important days of your life eco-friendly as well. Things can be recycled before and after the wedding. Reuse paper for flowers, use fresh cut flowers in reused vases, such as cans or jars that are collected from home. Watering pots are great as well! Just make sure to have a use for them after the wedding or find some that haven’t been used for years and put them to use. Give plants or packets of seeds as a favor. Take unused items and create new ones. The possibilities are endless! I see wonderful ideas all the time where basically necessity has been the key to their beautiful invention. Being different it was makes it special. Have fun being eco-friendly!

100 layer cake, Centsational Girl, Martha Stewart, Luna and Chloe Weddings, Oh-Lovely-Day, Second Chances By Susan, Style Me Pretty

Stella love

2011-12-05T17:58:00.001-08:00

Baby~bump is an understatement. Let us try baby~huge'O. But I am excited that I can have a few pictures. Most photo sessions are done about 32 weeks. Not 39 weeks. It is amazing how fast and how much bigger this thing gets during that eight weeks. I think I have 5 pictures of me pregnant with baby Stella and below are 3 out of those 5. I have a list a hundred miles long that I have to get done before this baby is born but all I want to do is eat truffles and stretch my leg cramps while watching Griswold's family Christmas. Seven days and counting…….

Oh Christmas tree

2011-12-04T18:12:00.001-08:00

We had to fit all the candy we had onto the gingerbread. No waste in this house!! It's all I can do to keep the kids away from it. The gum balls keep disappearing.

I am sitting here with a list a mile long of people that need gifts for Christmas and I can't think of a single thing for one of them!! Pressure. Do I have an excuse if I have my baby tomorrow? That would be cool.

A Canton's girls Senior Pictures

2011-12-03T11:19:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to finally show these to you!! I have been holding on to them for a bit and now I get to show you what a beautiful gal this is. She is a singer, that is right baby. Jazz. How spectacular is that?
The field, the river, the light, the subject. Thank you Miss Vanessa!

The Yates family

2011-12-02T12:00:00.000-08:00

This will be my third time working with this couple this year. Their engagements were wonderful, their wedding was splendid and these family pictures are intimate. I can't tell you how wonderful it is to have such great clients. It is so enjoyable to feel like friends instead of just business people. Enjoy your fall family pictures Yates family.

Loving my new canvas!!

2011-11-29T16:45:00.000-08:00

I am loving my new canvas!! This one is a 30x30 from whcc. I love that printing company. They are amazing with customer service and there products are superb. It fits perfect in my front room.

Cleveland children's photography

2011-11-28T17:51:00.000-08:00

This photo shoot was rescheduled at least four times. No joshin ya. But we finally pulled it off and it was worth the wait. Aren't these two smashing? Talk about well behaved obedient kids. Pretty great-full for such wonderful clients.

Family Christmas tree

2011-11-26T07:21:00.001-08:00

Oh Christmas tree……Growing up Logan and his family have always cut down their Christmas tree. So every year we spend an arm and a leg at a local tree farm and go hunt out the perfect tree. This year was no exception. We trudged through the mud and looked at 100 trees until the perfect tree was found. Every 25th of November we cut down and decorate the tree. It is a good tradition.

Children's photography in Cleveland

2011-11-24T17:35:00.000-08:00

This little girl was made to model…. she can pop a hip like no other!! She was a spit fire and I loved every minute of it. It was like taking pictures of my daughter. They even ventured into a marsh. Thank you for trusting me. I think they were a little surprised when they saw our location but it all worked out in the end. Peace.

Dear Baby Girl

2011-11-21T17:54:00.001-08:00

Dear Baby girl,

When I think of your arrival I am anxious. Anxious at how your arrival will go. Anxious at how you will fit onto our family. Anxious at how nursing will go. But so excited to look into your eyes, to have you sleep in my arms. To have your siblings hold you and kiss you and smother you. You could not have picked a family to come to that would love you more. I fear that it will all go so fast, as it seems to always do and that I wont remember it. I wont remember the baby smell or the cuddling or the baby sounds. You will have to be tough to fit into our family, we do a lot of wrestling and football in our home. As well as laughing and eating Daddies yummy homemade gluten free cookies. Stella, we love you…… see you in 25 days or so.

Love Mommy

Christmas jars

2011-11-21T06:20:00.001-08:00

These are our Christmas jars. We are having the kids make/buy a gift for one of their siblings for Christmas and these are their money bins. It has been wonderful because they get so excited to do anything for a penny to add to their jar. A penny for going pee in the potty, that one is Sawyers. A penny for getting dressed in a timely fashion (Oliver). And a penny for setting and clearing the table, that is Tulie Bells. It has been fun watching them ask how they can earn money to put in their jars. Hopefully we will be able to redirect them a bit this CHRISTmas season.

Thanksgiving Tradition

2011-11-20T17:43:00.001-08:00

This is my little family. This is Logan, and his traditions. We made Turkeys for the kids' teachers. Spice drops are nasty people. Nasty. I told him we should use hershey kisses but he said they wouldn't work. We sure had a grand weekend. Logan dragged us out to a new store- again and the kids were messes. So we stopped off to go for a walk at a lovely national park. That was fun. We hiked up to the top of a huge mountain, it was harder then I thought it was going to be. Having a baby in your tummy is tough. Plus the additional 30 pounds doesn't help.
22 days…… but who is counting.

Bubbles

2011-11-19T19:30:00.001-08:00

Bubbles…………...

Stop kissing

2011-11-16T12:14:00.001-08:00

This is Susan and Joe. They are to be married in the spring. The whole shoot I couldn't get them to keep their hands off each other (as I think it should be). I met these two at a wedding I was shooting a few weeks before. I was chastising Joe for being obnoxious and informed him and Susan that I felt bad for whoever was going to be their wedding photographer. They called me two days later. He he he. Enjoy.

Non traditional Bouquet ideas

2011-11-14T16:08:00.001-08:00

The bride’s bouquet is a very important part of the wedding day attire and can really make a statement. Many brides are going for a more unique look and thinking outside the box. While flowers are truly beautiful and traditional there are many alternatives as well. They are many DIY tutorials for paper, felt, and fabric flowers. Butterflies, buttons, peacock feather and crystals can all be arranged into a beautiful bouquet. Some brides are thinking even more out of the box with cut out shapes, like the picture of the hearts, fans, and even balloons! Many of these alternative bouquets can be kept as a treasured keep sack as well and will never die off! Enjoy creating your special bouquet!

Credit:
Martha Stewart, Online Wedding Dresses, Polka Dot Lace, Pop Tastic Bride, Sweet Stylings, The Knot, Smart Bride Boutiwue, Wedding Bee, Wedding Belles Online, Wedding Chicks, Wedding Color, Wedding Come True, Wedding Wire

To a sister named Teddy

2011-11-14T11:24:00.001-08:00

To my little sister. This is Amanda Teddy. She joined our family when she was a 7. She is a beautiful, spoiled, funny, sweet, thoughtful gal. But most importantly she is my sister. After being raised in a family with five brothers I am happy to welcome sisters. She is one of three additions to my family. I know that we aren't blood related, I know how thick blood is. But I feel very close to these my sisters and hope that they feel loved. (Kassi, your images are next!)

Who's counting?

2011-11-12T20:19:00.001-08:00

Tis the season? Christmas is here? What happened to Thanksgiving? I want pie! We are going to have a couple friends over for dinner and Logan has us making gumdrop turkeys. Personally I hate wasting a perfectly good apple but the kids like it.

ATTENTION ALL CLIENTS:
I will be going on maternity leave right before Turkey day. So if you want anything ordered or printed before February get your orders in pronto!!
Super excited for our baby girl to arrive. I guess I had better find a midwife in Berea eeeh? 30 more days, but who is counting?

Fall family time

2011-11-07T17:40:00.000-08:00

This is my family. This is us in fall. Logan does a good job keeping us in traditions. You see the scary bus, every fall we are here. Getting pumpkins, popcorn and apple cider. I am aware that Logan's picture is in here twice. I am just too lazy to fix it!

The DeAngelis family

2011-11-03T11:39:00.000-07:00

What a lucky day!! It was raining and cloudy all day long and then boom, the sun came a singing. I had more smiles out of this guy in the first minute then I get out of most kids the whole shoot. Thank you baby!!

Rapunzel

2011-10-31T20:49:00.000-07:00

Just a little halloween love.

Center Pieces on a Budget

2011-10-31T20:20:00.000-07:00

Center Pieces have a huge impact on the overall feel of a table and can set the mood of an entire room so every bride wants to make sure that they are just right! However, finding the perfect center piece that fits a budget conscious bride is not always an easy task. Some budget friendly ideas include making paper, or tissue flowers, saving jars and cans, or even using books. Jars and cans can be spray painted to create a really cute look! If you are not crafty, wild flowers are a great alternative as well! Scrapbooking paper can be used to decorate center pieces too and can often be found on sale if you watch for the deals. Bulbs look beautiful in a bowl during the holiday season and if you have some time get them right after the new year when everything goes on sale! Fruit is always a nice pop of color as well. Picture frames with your engagement pictures are always great too! Don’t be afraid to think out of the box, express yourself, be creative, and you will love the results!

Photo Credit: Brown Paper Bag Bride, Party Blue Prints Blog, Vegan Virgin, Wedding Bee, Wedding Girl, Rachel Ray, Julie C Butler Photography, Lacy’s Budget Friendly Wedding Inspirations, and The Knot

Bethany + Matthew

2011-10-26T18:11:00.000-07:00

Talk about the prettiest gal ever!! Bethany and Matthew tied the knot this past weekend. What a beautiful weekend it turned out to be. Mr. Matt was so darn cute. He came prepared with pockets full of hankies because he would need them. And boy was it the cutest thing ever. You can tell by the look in his eyes when he sees her that he just adores her. Thank you for inviting me to your wonderful wedding!! Enjoy the images.

To see the slideshow go here.

Just because….

2011-10-25T12:02:00.000-07:00

Just because….. a little Halloween love. Trying to enjoy all that fall has to offer. Besides cold of corse!! Welcome fall leaves and pumpkin pie. Welcome cinnamon spice and carmel apples. Hello hot cocoa and soft slippers. There are a few good things about fall. It also means we are getting closer to baby!! That is reason to celebrate in itself.

Cool blokes

2011-10-22T05:50:00.000-07:00

This morning Logan is making bacon and pancakes…. yummmy. I am getting things all packed up for Bethany's wedding this afternoon. It is going to be sunny, well at least not rainy. My three year old is humming twinkle twinkle while my daughter is throwing a fit in her bedroom. Good morning sunshine. Oli is reading books far to advanced and asking me questions that I don't know the answer to. I then try to make it look like a good teaching moment and say, let us go look it up on the computer.

These pictures were taken at Dussel's in Brimfield. everyone should go there. They have a scary haunted bus and 2 corn mazes. One for adults and one for small children. Plus they are just cool blokes.

The element of surprise

2011-10-19T19:58:00.000-07:00

Brides are always trying to make sure that there is not a single detail left unnoticed. Step one is often finding the perfect dress but don’t forget about what is hiding beneath the dress! You can add a few special touches like colorful tights, personalized shoes, sparkly converse or Toms, a handmade garter, or a dyed slip! The options are limitless! Did you know that you can hire someone to make you your very own personalized shoes? There are also lots of DIY tutorials that explain how to dye your slip. What a great way to break the traditional style and express yourself without having to make a big statement. Do not forget about your groom for this one either! Stripped, argyle, and fun colored socks are a lot of fun in pictures and can be easily hidden when needed!

Photo Credits:

Audra Bayette, Chantel Marie, Fun Fashion Fit, Glo.msn, Libby James, Shannon Lee, Wedding Bee, Wedding By Color, Wedding Channel

Tiffany and Anthony's wedding day

2011-10-19T12:08:00.000-07:00

Tiffany and Anthony…. talk about the perfect location. They got married overlooking this beautiful field with just their family and a few close friends. I love this idea of simple and intimate! It felt so quiet and honest, nothing like my wedding. If I had it to do over again, small and special is exactly how I would keep it. To view more pictures please visit their Slideshow .

Samuel Williams & Henry Luda

2011-10-18T12:07:00.000-07:00

Okay ladies and gents…. Henry Luda & Samuel Williams are frauds. They are creepy dudes that are trying to get your money!! If we all turn them in than maybe the police will do something about it!! Stay away from them. I am in no way affiliated with them or whatever hebegebee thing they are doing. They have stated that they are working along side me to have some sort of credibility and they ARE NOT!! So, stay away!

Carmel Apples

2011-10-12T17:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, so we all know that I despise fall. However, I have made a concious goal to embrace. So we have been doing all sorts of wonderful fall things. Starting with the amazing CARMEL APPLES. Oh my were they wonderful! We ate them for days, or should I say I since Logan doesn't due leftovers. Logan is pretty great with making/keeping traditions. Note to self, keep the carmel apples cold at all times or the carmel will just totally slide off the apple.

Senior Pictures in a lovely field

2011-10-11T10:23:00.000-07:00

We move in FIVE, 5, SINCO dAYS!! Boooya! We have been living in boxes and I am ready for so many things. I have loved the blue sky lately. Reminds me a bit of my Idaho. I have made a conscious effort to try to more fully enjoy the fall. Normally I struggle with this season because it means winter is almost here. But I realize that is quiet childish and I need to embrace the beauty God is trying to send me before the grey arrives. Below is a lovely photo shoot of Madison…. she was so kind and sweet. She is one of those crazy folk that like to run. I say that because I wish I was one of those people but it just isn't in me! So cheers to fall and beautiful red leaves.

Peace

2011-10-06T06:11:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here at Starbucks waiting for a client. I am smelling the coffee and listening to the music - completely guilt free. They called and said that they would be late so now I will just sit and relax. How wonderful is this? We are in the process of moving, and I am excited! We will be going from a 700 sq foot house to a house with a finished basement. Wow. My only problem, which is so NOT a complaint, I only have enough furniture to fill two rooms and the family room. The two other rooms and the front room are completely empty. Which is cool because I get to actually decorate!!!! Before we only had room for the necessities, so this is exciting. Oh did I mention that my office will no longer be my coat closet in the front room? Yes, so stoked.
Tulie will be in full day kindergarten when we move, not her current three hours, and I am devastated. I will miss her. I am surprised how sad I felt when I heard the news. I am sure we will both be fine. And when the new baby comes I am sure it will be a relief, but Sawyer will be so lonely. He won't have anyone to pick on him all morning.
I am happy in this here life we have been blessed with. Peace.

This is my little sister….. Amanda Teddy. I am so glad you are apart of our family!

Dustin- Senior pictures down town Cleveland

2011-10-03T10:06:00.000-07:00

This is Dustin, he is a drama geek! I am allowed to say that because I was a drama geek back in the day too. He is currently volentearing his acting/scare services at a haunted house that raises money for a charity that helps kids with heart defects. He dances, is a choriographer, is an actor and last but not least he sails a sail boat!! How cool is that. Yeah, I have never even set foot on a sail boat until this photo shoot. Congrats Dustin.

A buffet at your wedding?

2011-10-01T17:37:00.000-07:00

Whether it is a late night snack for the cock-tail hour, or part of the meal, sweets, treats and yummy drink buffets are in and come in all shapes and sizes! Buffets are impressive and can be for any part of the wedding day. The candy bar is very popular but there are many other options as well. Lemonade stands with a variety of flavors and extra fruit to put in the glasses, I like the fruit ones! hot-chocolate with a variety of toppings like marshmallows and candy canes, cookies and milk, warm apple cider, pies, popcorn, and ice cream. Sliders or taco bars are fun as well if you are looking for something other than a sweet! Simply find cute glassware or containers and put everything together. The Goodwill is a great place to find cool glassware. Labels are nice as well and give it an extra touch. Guests love the creativity and options! Many of these options can be very budget friendly as well. Also they make for great pics.

Picture Credits:

Always a Blogsmaid, Artisian Cake Company, Bride on a Budget, Cherry Tree Occasions City Wedding Guides, First Coast Weddings, La Vita Bella Events, One Lovely Day, Robert McClory, Ryan Prins, Sarah France, and You're the Bride.

Article assistance: Courtney Banta

Streaking in the Chick- fil- A.

2011-09-28T10:21:00.000-07:00

So, I have been on the hunt for a few items for our living room. While I was out hunting the two youngest kids were behaving so wonderfully that I decided to reward them with Chick fil A. While I was being my typical high maintenance customer about the whole gluten free mess I hear a gal behind me say, "Is that your son?"

I turn to see my three year old son naked from the waste down running crazy through the dining room. We have been potty training and I guess he had had an accident and removed his clothes. It was awesome!!! Good times.

creativity

2011-09-27T17:19:00.000-07:00

I have not crafted since my photography business really began taking off a few years ago and I miss it!! I think it has to do with little time and NO space. However it was my girlfriends birthday and she is a big crafter and no store bought thing was going to do for her. So I pulled out my gear and whipped together a few bookmarks. And it was a good time. Relaxing, creating, NO expectations. So my goal this week is to try to bring this freedom to my photography. I have a senior photo shoot later this week and we will see if the creative juices flow eh?

Mallorey + Joe = Love

2011-09-21T10:39:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful wedding!! The ceremony was at her grandparents house and oh was it lovely. Their little boy was the life of the party. These two went to High school together and Mallorey had the hots for him the whole time. What a lucky guy, he let her catch him. Oh the love.

To see more of their images come see the slideshow here!

Danielle heart Eric

2011-09-16T12:05:00.000-07:00

What a crazy day. The wedding was beautiful!! However it rained…..yuck. That made our picture taking a little rough, but they were good sports. Thank goodness that they had umbrellas. They were the cutest little couple. You should have seen them at the dinner table, they were all lovely dovey. And then they danced!! Thank you for sharing the LOVE!

Make a Wish

2011-09-14T11:29:00.000-07:00

This little guy is going to Disney Land this week thanks to the AMAZING Make a Wish foundation. I had the honor of being there as they told him and his family about their amazing trip. At first he was so sweet and shy but by mid-evening, he was all giddy and smiles. We hope you and your family enjoy your trip, and God bless you on your life journey!

Life flies by….

2011-09-13T19:41:00.000-07:00

My life has been one crazy roller coaster since our little trip to Idaho. Logan wrecked our car….. I like to say it that way because it gets him all riled up. A dude hit the back of our car and that is all she wrote of that vehicle. So we have had to:

# 1.Buy a new van. There I said it, we have a van okay. We are going to have four, count them four kids. Thus we have a minivan.

#2. Logan started his new job as a professor up at Cleveland State. Booya.

#3. Get a new place to live. We are currently in a two bedroom apartment the size of a porta potty.

#4. Tulie had her tonsils out and tubes in her ears. That was awful! She lost four pounds. That is a lot for a little girl!! But she is doing wonderfully now. Strangely I think she's a happier girl.

#5. All that and I had a zillion shoots to squeeze in between it all.

Not to mention we found out we were having a girl!!!! We are so excited.

Sometimes I feel so overwhelmed… trying to be everything to everyone. Trying to be a working mom that isn't working so it doesn't interfere with hubby and kids. I felt bad today as I made dinner that I don't ever cook anything new and then I thought, screw it, I worked all day today in one way or another. At least they aren't getting cereal. I have to be okay with "falling short"….. no, with the me of now. Be okay that you read to the kids, played at the park, sent emails, edited a shoot, posted a blog, made dinner, talked to your mother on the phone, did half the laundry and dare I say read a little in your book. Yeah, if that is falling short, bring it.

Welcome to the world

2011-09-07T07:56:00.000-07:00

This little family is new to Ohio. They moved into a new house and had a baby in the same week. As I interacted with this little baby it made me sooooo excited for our little girl to arrive. Sad that it will be our last but relieved to never have to have morning sickness again! He is a sweet little boy and both parties are blessed by his arrival into the family. Welcome baby.

Frolicking in the grass- engagement session

2011-09-05T11:56:00.000-07:00

This is Courtney and Robert. They LOVE music. They both actually have music degrees. They spend their free time singing songs and frolicking in the grass. Aren't all these props just awesome!! I didn't bring a thing. She is just full of ideas. You should hear the wedding plans she already has for the wedding next summer. It should be lovely.

To see more of their shoot visit the slideshow here.

Today's ME

2011-09-01T16:56:00.000-07:00

Things I like today:
the sun
Logan having a real job
gluten free cookies
mothers
wild flowers
Gone with the Wind, Scarlett is such a monster!
my wedding band
laughter
kisses
garden tomatoes
turquoise
my new washer and drier, praise!
tummy giggling laughter
good educators for my kids
little pretty things like bows and ruffles
electric toothbrushes
golf (that's for my boy)
really good love stories
nursing
drying apples
fuzzy socks
ipods- life savor

Things I don't like:
long toenails
boogers
laundry
mean people
whiny voices
Yummy looking donuts I can't eat
people that smoke at parks
mornings, oh how I wish I were a morning person!!

Oak Lodge lovin'

2011-08-31T12:03:00.000-07:00

This wedding was at the freaking AMAZING Oak Lodge in Pennsylvania. I can't tell you how wonderful the people, building and locations were. It was perfect for Erica and Matt who LOVE the outdoors. Matt and Erica met at her best friend's wedding; she was the bridesmaid. He saw her walk down the aisle, and that is all she wrote! They are off on their honeymoon so you are seeing these before they are. I hope you love them.

Just added: Come see more of their images here.

Pictures and Pinwheels

2011-08-29T10:52:00.000-07:00

Talk about a fun group of people. They can take it as good as they can dish it. I had a lot of fun with this family. They were doing backflips and playing kickball. They had bubbles and pinwheels. It was a mighty good afternoon. Enjoy your images!!!

Mallorey and Joe's engagements

2011-08-28T18:24:00.000-07:00

This cute couple is getting married in just a few weeks!!! Yeah. I can't wait to see what she is doing for the wedding. They have the cutest little boy, and he is a spit fire. He will be fun to watch at the wedding. See you in a few weeks guys!

Julianne + Zach = love

2011-08-24T20:24:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, Julianna and Zach were wed……. it was so lovely!!! They currently live in Colorado and are going to school. But Ohio is their home. I wonder what they think of the beautiful skies that can be found year round? I know that they spend their time doing exactly what I would be doing if I lived there….. hiking. Being in those beautiful mountains. Wish I were there too!! Congratulations!!

To view their slideshow click here!

Dear Bride

2011-08-23T20:14:00.000-07:00

Don't kill me!!! I just got home and swear, with all my heart I will have more tomorrow. XOXO Mindy Sue

Drummm Rollllll Please

2011-08-16T15:32:00.000-07:00

IT'S A GIRL!!!!

We are so crazy excited!! This being my last, it is nice to have even numbers, even genders. I didn't realize how much I wanted a girl until we heard the news. My boys are sooooo amazingly easy - that a boy would have been welcome. However, it is a girl, and I am again looking forward to pretty bows and dresses for her to refuse to wear.

Wedding season is in full swing and boy has it kept me on my toes. I am excited for another one this weekend.

Note to self: It is okay to sit down every once in a while- you're pregnant!

Chagrin falls photographer: Jane + Ken

2011-08-13T20:03:00.000-07:00

This is Jane and Ken. They are in love. Jane recently found out that she has cancer. Her chemo will most likely make her loose all her beautiful hair. So we thought she needed to document this journey. She is so full of life!! She was so fun to photograph because she was always laughing, smiling, kissing. Jane, good luck on your journey. And thank you for sharing with us….

Weddings in a bed and breakfast

2011-08-10T06:02:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to announce the marriage of MRS. Haley to her new hubby Mr. Jay. They had their ceremony at the cutest little bed and breakfast. The lighting was a beautiful accent to Haley's AMAZING skin. They met coincidentally and both had eyes for each other immediately. However it was through Jays sneakiness that they had their first date and feel quickly in love. And less then two years later here they are. Thank you for sharing your wedding day with me. Mindy Sue

To view their slideshow click here!

Wedding photography in a barn!!!

2011-08-08T06:44:00.000-07:00

This is Ted and Katie. I have NEVER worked with a more easy going couple then this. They were all smiles and kisses. I like that. Makes my job easier. They had their reception at the cutest little barn! They had streamer lights and a zillion different kinds of cookies all hand made by Grandma.

Enjoy the eye cookies…..

To see their slide show click here!

Little ones

2011-08-03T11:32:00.000-07:00

We find out next week the gender of our baby. I hope that they find all well with my little one. He or she has been moving lots lately. I love the feeling in my tummy. Yes, I would like another daughter since this will be our last baby. However, I freaking ADORE my boys. So another guy in the family would be greatly received. This pregnancy has gone by so quickly.....rock on!

Once a year

2011-08-02T09:30:00.000-07:00

Going shopping for the last time with my Mommy before I go back to Ohio for a whole year. So sad. Great-full for sisters that love my kids.

Zen

2011-08-01T08:16:00.000-07:00

Being in the Idaho mountains makes me feel all zen like.

Don't drown.

2011-07-27T08:15:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how much work a vacation is!! But I am not complaining. I am loving watching my parents interact with my kids. I feel that there are always soooo many kids here that my folks are spread pretty thin. But we have been here long enough that there has been a break or two without all the cousins, and they have done a great job attending to my kids. Did I mention that the sky here is amazing, as well as the lack of humidity!!

I have been working really hard trying to keep up so that I won't drown when I get home! I don't think it's going to help.

Below are a few pictures that I took with the awesome sun behind my subjects. Love the sun!

Brides don't forget....

2011-07-22T07:27:00.000-07:00

Things not to forget as a bride for the photographer....

*Bring a cute hanger for your dress.

*Feed your photographer.

*Write your vows down so they can be photographed.

*Bring or send your photographer a wedding invitation so they can photograph it.

*A personal wedding picture list is nice to have.

*Bring anything special that was exchanged previously between the bride and groom so I can record it for you.

*Trust me!!!

This is my little man

2011-07-18T12:52:00.000-07:00

We are visiting family here in Idaho and it is wonderful. I love watching my kids interact with their cousins, wrestle with their Aunts and Uncles and being kissed by their grandparents. We are so lucky to be so loved. I just wish they didn't live so far away!!! Or that I didn't.

Editing wedding pictures while on vacation. Doesn't feel like work though. Lucky me, I love seeing the magic that comes out of the camera!!

After the proposal!!

2011-07-06T20:20:00.000-07:00

So after the proposal we pulled out my faithful pink couch and snapped away. She is so crazy photogenic it is ridiculous!! Below is the ring. He did good din't he! They plan on getting hitched next year and I am so excited to see what they come up with!!

On a side note..... I will be out of the office (Ohio) until next Sunday so if you want to get ahold of me, tough cookies. I will be watching everyone ski at Lake Powell.

Oh and we find out the babies gender very soon. Hip hip hurray!!

Katie and Ted

2011-07-02T20:10:00.000-07:00

So it is super late and I am super tired…. but I promised her at least one picture before my little vacation. So here it is. Much much to come of their amazingly beautiful wedding!

Ohio Wedding Photographer

2011-07-01T18:36:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to teach my kids to learn how to swim so that when we visit Lake Powell I won't have to be such a worry wart. And as I was watching my kids eating their dripping popsicles sitting out in the sun drying off, I was thinking about how much I love my kids. How much I love being a mother. And I thought, how lucky am I that I like being a mother. It hasn't always been like that for me though. For the first several years actually, I felt unsatisfied with "just" being a mother. I think a lot of that changed for me when I started my business. I am able to work form home, leave home, be creative, talk to adults, get dolled up and most importantly come back home to my family. This has been a good choice for our family. I am so lucky to have what I have, to be happy in my life. I look at this little boy below and he is so loved and adored. He is lucky too. Lucky are we that love and are loved!

Wedding books!

2011-06-29T05:14:00.000-07:00

Wedding, senior, family, children books. These are three VERY uniquely distinctive styles. Some of them you will love, some might not be your favorite and that is okay. Don't forget we can also do a very simple layout with a solid color, your choice of corse, with sharp frames for your images. So if you are getting wed or want a cool way to display your images in a rocking coffee table book, we can make something work for you I am sure. However as these templates can be slightly modified, I did NOT design them so it best to mess with them as little as possible!

The Water color template

Big Daddy turns 32

2011-06-27T17:49:00.000-07:00

This is Logan…he is a super serious dude so this picture is way special. It isn't often I catch his silly-isms.
He defended is dissertation just last week. It has been a load off my back let me tell you!
He likes to bake but can't often any more because of our "disease".
In his free time he likes to play golf with our seven year old. They have made a nine hole golf corse in our backyard complete with 2 sand traps and even a water hazard when the kitty pool is out.
When he isn't golfing he can be found cuddling his younger two children while watching their all time favorite "Sean the Sheep".
Last week we unanimously agreed that I can't cook and he is a great chef.
He has long hair to spite his parents I think.
He is a devout friend.
He sleeps like a vampire, on his back arms and legs crossed, really, like that.
He bites his nails when he is nervous.
He does a lot of laundry… don't tell my mother-in-law.
Logan is the best listener ever, makes sense since he is a counselor and all.
I love him.
I feel lucky every day that he loves me and our babies.
Happy 32 big daddy.
We adore you.

Ohio Photographer… and pretty models.

2011-06-27T16:57:00.000-07:00

I never did post the group pictures…. sorry about that. Shouldn't be to painful for you to look at these beautiful models again. FYI, I am shooting one of these girls wedding next summer. She's the pretty one……good luck guessing which one. You will have to wait and see!

I am in LOVE with summer

2011-06-22T11:11:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how wonderful summer is. It helps me feel validated in how much I despise winter!! Ohio winters are amazingly cloudy and I get lonely for the sun during the winter time. But the sun is here now and we are all burnt to a crispy from its wonderful summer raise! My kids did a lemonade stand a few days ago and it was a jolly good time. Note to self: Stop at all kid lemonade stands. As the mom I was willing all my mental energy to make the passerby's stop and some did thankfully. Oh how wonderful the summer.

He proposed!

2011-06-21T17:52:00.000-07:00

Their story is a little funny… they grew up in the same little town in Ohio but didn't know each other. They both set off to the same college and he asked her out on a date. Then he stood her up!! Can you believe that? She is the bees knees if I don't say so myself!! Well a few months later he tried again and she was gracious enough to give him a second chance. Can't blame her he's a cutie patootie. And that is all she wrote….. Oh by the way, she said yes.
On a personal note, don't put the scrubbing bubbles cleaning spray next to your hair spray and then in a rush confuse the two. Scrubbing bubbles is NOT meant for the hair ladies….

*This is NOT a reenactment ladies and gents….

Wedding season

2011-06-20T16:41:00.000-07:00

Wedding season is definitely in full bloom and I am crazy editing, e-mailing and file sizing. Look at the eye lashes on this bride…ummm amazing. It is easy to take pretty pictures when you have stunningly clients!! I can't wait for them to see all of their images.

Not related to photography….
*Logan defends tomorrow…. Boooya!
*Sawyer (my three yr old) is peeing all over the house in our attempt to potty train.
*It is amazing how fast pregnancy can fly by and at the same time move so slow.
*I am in love with lemonade.
*Logan's b-day is next week and I have nooooo idea what to get him.
*Excited to visit Idaho but anxious to not have personal space for a long while.
*I can't wait to go boating at LAKE POWELL. Yeah that's right! No skiing for me though dang it.
*I love rainy days when they are surrounded by days of sunshine o' corse.
*My family makes me happy……. I feel lucky.

Sometimes it's just about what makes you happy.

2011-06-17T17:07:00.000-07:00

I love this picture…. not sure why, but I do. I have such a weakness for handmade, unique, pretty things. I love thinking about the time and love that went into creating the beautiful pieces of artwork. I miss doing that. Before I fully delved into my business I crafted, everything. That is what I did with my Mindy time. And then I had a million children and I just couldn't do it any more. I could have made it work if I had had a craft room or something. But having to put my pile of beautiful junk away after every twenty minute session my kids allotted me was a little annoying. So now I do my creating with my camera. Which totally fills that part of me. Like this picture below, why do I love it? I don't know to tell you the truth. I love the colors, the bow, the lighting. Yeah, you don't see her face in this picture but that isn't the purpose of this image. It just makes me happy, need I say more?

I was gone for a bit but now I am back baby!

2011-06-13T10:57:00.000-07:00

I am sooooo sorry I have disappeared for the last few weeks. It has been a crazy time. Many wonderful and hard things have kept me away.

*Logan received his defense date for his dissertation for later this month!!!

*My very wonderful friend lost her baby prematurely.

*We all caught a cold that is still lingering three weeks later.

*Work has kept me busy busy busy.

*The kids are out of school. This alone is enough to cause a melt down.

*And last but not least. We are pregnant!! Just getting over the sick period and ready to get back into business. Now ladies don't be worried if I am taking your wedding pictures!! Those weddings I have booked later in the year will have an additional photographer free of charge. I will be big but nothing I can't handle.

So, illness gone, kids routine created, Logan calmed and me feeling better. I think we are back on track. So enjoy the pictures below. This is Big O's second session. He is now four months and a little angel!! Look at that smooth skin!

I have a wedding and an engagement session for you soon. Thanks for hanging in with me!

DJ Senior pictures

2011-06-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

This is DJ. She plays the Saxaphone….so cool. Her brother kept trying to play it during our photo shoot and covered it in saliva by the time DJ needed it for her pictures. She says that they are pretty much best friends. I am always amazed when siblings like each other at that period in their lives. If I remember right he is only 14 years old but looks likes he's 20. So boys…… you'd better be nice to his sister or he'll kick your trash. She is off to college in the fall. Go Cleveland State, her Mother has no idea about how much she is going to miss her darling girl! If you'd like to see more of DJ's images click here for the slideshow.

Brides of 2012

2011-05-24T11:49:00.000-07:00

Below is my new wedding price list for 2012. This goes out to inquiring brides. I can't help myself….. they are sooo darn cute!!
Not to jump the gun and skip over this years brides…..the busy season has begun and the weekends are crazy!! I will post pictures soon.

"Well yes please I think I shall have another!"

2011-05-16T15:45:00.000-07:00

While I was driving home from a family photoshoot the other evening, I was looking at all the fast food places thinking about all the food I would never be able to eat again. Pizza Hut flew by….ummmm, yum. And then a donut shop; I liked the custard filled ones with the chocolate on top. And then I thought about homemade cinnamon rolls and I began to cry. Really. I mean I wasn't sobbing but a glistening tear may have graced my cheek. Since then I have been moping around the house proclaiming that for the the next sixty years I will never eat good food again. I know, you are saying, why not just use gluten-free flour and make your own. Believe me, we have tried! And they turn out totally unedible.

However, I asked my man if he would make me some. He is a much better cook than I am, and I'm not just saying that to get out of cooking. And guess what people? I cried again. They were sooooo good. Even Logan who will make me GF stuff but NEVER eats it said they were all right. So I have been eating myself sick for the last day and a half because GF bread doesn't stay fresh for very long, and I don't know when I will enjoy cinnamon rolls again. Just because they turned out good this time doesn't mean that next time (which will be at least a year from now) they will even be comparable as is often the case with GF baking.

So thank you Logie Bear….he says I am in his debt forever now. Little does he know he's been in my debt since we got married.

Below is a T&T photo shoot for their new headbands. Super cute ehh.

Wedding books

2011-05-13T13:01:00.000-07:00

To buy or not to buy, that is the question. Are wedding books worth all those big bucks? First off, let me tell you that it is super worth it! And if I dare say it, it is almost a necessity to incorporate into your wedding budget. You buy the cute CD that has your pictures on it. That is great. You post your images on Facebook, you back them up and then…… you never get them out again. Please remember that this is only my personal experience!! I do however have a lovely wedding album. It sits in my front room and is looked at and laughed at more then any other book in my house. My favorite picture is the looks of horror on my husband's and father's faces as they viewed the car we were suppose to drive off into the sunset. My Dad's face for what my five brothers had just done to his Corvette and Logan's face for the fear he had in his soul if he did any damage to the car. Priceless.

Below are a few pictures I took seconds before the rain came pouring down. Thank you Ohio rain!

Lucky me…..

2011-05-06T15:45:00.000-07:00

For Easter Logan went way out of his way and made a gluten free carrot cake for me. He even got a pineapple and puréed it for one of the ingredients. By the time he was done mixing it all together it was like a $45 cake. He had set it on the stove while the oven was pre-heating and I was in the kitchen making deviled eggs, which are a must have with Easter Eggs. Sawyer sat at my legs crying, "No Mommy. Don't break the pretty eggs!"

When all the sudden a bomb went off. Literally. The pan containing the uncooked cake had literally exploded into a gillian pieces. There was carrot cake dripping from every wall in the kitchen. Turns out the hot pan was on which made the glass pan the carrot cake was in shatter. We are still cleaning up shards of glass. Logan cried. Really. Okay not really but if he were a girl he would have.

Which brings me to families. I am a pretty lucky girl I think…. loving and being loved. Below is a family that I just met and I know they would say the same thing. They were both so kind and loving to their sweet boys and each other for that matter. Their three year old ran straight into a mud puddle and mom replies, "Oh well, he's a boy." On their picture day! Cool and calm and loving. Just lucky and feeling blessed to have such a wonderful family. Believe me I am NOT that cool of a mom! Someday.

Hudson Senior pictures

2011-05-05T09:28:00.000-07:00

This is Shelby, cute name right. She is the middle of two sisters whom she adores….again I am jealous. She is a runner, just like her dad and has some crazy buff arm muscles!!! She is a senior this year and has no idea what she wants to be when she grows up…..Well, I am 27 no 28? Well, I am old and still have a hundred things on my list that I want to "become". So good luck with that Shelby. Until then we will enjoy looking at your amazing eyes. Come see the slide show I made with her senior images. She's a natural!

Cleveland Maternity Boudoir

2011-04-29T17:42:00.000-07:00

Talk about the cutest pregnant gal ever!!! I so wished I looked like this 8 1/2 months pregnant. This is baby number 2 for this cute couple and they are sooooo excited. If they only knew how much harder it is with two then one. But I'm not saying anything. He he he. She was so confident in her skin I was sincerely jealous. It was a lot of fun shooting with these expecting parents…Mr. Phillips, the hubby, followed us around as my assistant making her laugh. It was a pretty great day. Baby boy arrived healthy and huge. Can't wait to show you his pictures too!!

Drum roll please

2011-04-27T10:58:00.000-07:00

I often get asked about my lighting….. so I thought I would share my big seceret…….it is a big one. It sets me apart from many other photographers. It is pretty amazing. Drummmmmm roll please.

Sorry folks, I hate to disappoint, but I am a natural light photographer. I have a whole professional light set collecting dust in my basement, so if anyone wants to take it off my hands, feel free. It is not that I don't know how to use them, I most definitely do. It is that I don't care for the effect it gives. Please don't take offense if that is your style. Power to you. It is just not me.

Of course I have my off-camera light set up that I use for weddings or when additional light is required…. and I do like doing cool effects with off-light flash but unless it is needed, I try to stay away from it.

The most important thing in my bag that allows me to do this is my nikon 50mm 1.4. I love love love this lens and it is attached to my camera 90% of the time. Shooting at 1.8 gives me the ability to shoot in areas that otherwise would not be possible. The images are amazingly sharp and it helps make the skin look amazing!!! That in addition to having a camera that can handle a higher ISO without all the noise. I currently shoot with the Nikon D700 and love it's lowlight ability.

And here is another preview of the cutest senior ever….like all my seniors aren't the cutest seniors ever!!

What is a first look?

2011-04-24T17:35:00.000-07:00

More and more my brides are choosing to do a first look. It is fairly new to the wedding day agenda and newness can be kind of scary for some people. But I assure you newness does not mean any less special. It actually can be quite wonderful!!

A first look is when the bride and groom opt to due their wedding pictures before the ceremony.

First looks awesomenesses:

*your hair and make-up are freshly done. No tears (yet), no hugging from grandma to smear the perfection!

*you get to see each other privately…. Just the two of you, special, alone, in love. You get to hug and kiss and be excited together.

*as my goal is to be in the background, it might honestly be your only time together alone the whole doggarn day.

*and the best part…..after the ceremony, you aren't stuck with me taking pictures for an hour and a half while your family and friends are at cocktail hour without you!!! You are there! Your pictures are done, the wedding ceremony is over, and you are at the party, your party.

I prefer that the bride and groom see each other before the ceremony. However, it isn't my wedding, it is yours…. And what I really want is my bride and groom to be happy!! I simply explain the options so that they can make an educated decision about what is best for them!

I think I will go to bed now. Alone, as usual, as my husband has been obsessively

working on his dissertation. We are going to have one hell of a party when he gets done

with this thang. Below is a little pre-photo shoot picture. Every post is better with a

picture.

You look pretty mom

2011-04-18T08:30:00.000-07:00

I am always inspired by people that can design, sew, and create. I love photographing these girls because I am always in awe of their talent!!! I swear in my attempt to have color and pattern in my wardrobe, I leave my house half the time looking like a clown. However, my two year old always tells me that I look pretty. You can't have it all I guess. But if I had to choose between actually having good style or having a two year old tell me that I look cute in my pajamas, I pick the two year old!!

Today……..

2011-04-14T18:44:00.000-07:00

I am tired today. And when I am tired I don't think I am the best mother. I am also craving chocolate like it is the end of the world.

Today I am great-full for: sunshine, baby kisses, kindness, motherhood, Cadbury chocolates at Easter time, freedom, pretty bracelets, indie music, an ambitious husband, silly children, parents, imagination, uniqueness, generosity, forgiveness, ambition, gluten free ice cream cones, pink nail polish, laughter, neck kisses, spring, Jesus love, mozzarella and basil pizza, vacuum's (really), friends, my camera, windows with baby finger prints, celiac disease, Logan's cooking and lastly sandy beaches.

This guy informed me that he was forced to be there.. Ya right. He totally worked the camera. This look goes with the twin sister shoot below. I will be adding the other twin sister shoot shortly. Did I mention the clothes from all these shoots were found at second hand stores. Awesome!

Mindy Sue in the Examiner, Booya!

2011-04-12T11:01:00.000-07:00

So excited!!! I did a photo shoot a few months ago where I was able to work with Stacey Thomas who runs the Good Will Huntingg blog and also writes for The Examiner. She has this amazing ability to make unique stylish outfits out of Good Will finds. Well, she dropped me a few questions and you can see the Interview here. Yeah!!!!
Logan and I recently went to see Les Miserables in down town Cleveland at Playhouse Square. So wonderful… it is one of my favorites. I remember seeing it for the first time in Salt Lake City. I was probably fourteen years old. My parents took me and all five of my brothers to get a little cultural exposure I suppose. We literally sat on the very back row. I remember this because my father smacked my brother back to consciousness after he had rested his head against the wall and had fallen asleep. Good times. Below is the picture Logan took of me at the Chocolate something or other right before the show. He had to take like 100 images of me because I am so not photogenic! Isn't he a cutie pie! Yeah baby.

Oh FYI. My sweet little "Angels" put my phone in the microwave last week so if you call me, I will get back to you asap. I should have my phone on Friday.

Funny jokes.

2011-04-11T07:34:00.000-07:00

My father isn't a very funny guy. He is kind, and honest and wise. But funny he is not. So when he tells a joke, you remember it, if only because of how out of place it feels. Two men were out fishing in the woods when they stumbled upon a hungry bear. The two man turned and began to run. A moment later one of the men sat down and pulled his running shoes out of his back pack and began to put them on (not quite sure why he had his running shoes in his back pack). His companion commented, "What are you doing, you can't out run a bear?" The man with the running shoes replied, "No, but I can out run you!" I like my Dad, a lot. Below is a photo shoot I did a few weeks ago. This is Missy. She was a lot of fun to work with and had lots of fun ideas. The camera loves her. It is always fun to work with eccentric people. Thanks Missy.

Fashion Photography

2011-04-08T10:45:00.000-07:00

As I sit down to write this my kids are giggling hysterically in my pea sized kitchen about who knows what. But the sound makes me happy. However the laughter quickly turns to fighting and then I am annoyed. Being a mother is wonderful, hard, busy, all encompassing, life changing, educational and my life.

There is also another part of me that I feel makes me complete. And that is my photography. I use to really struggle "just being a mother." I have since started my business and those feeling have all just dissipated. For me, feeling confident, creative, social, having a break… all these things help me appreciate my kids. Help me enjoy motherhood. This photo shoot came on one of those, I need to get out and be with real people days…

This is Danielle, she is a twin. Totally jealous. Her sister is the designer and I will post her pictures soon. Is her dimple the cutest? I really enjoyed watching her and her sister interact with each other. Sisterhood is truly a gift.

The Lamprecht clan

2011-04-06T15:04:00.000-07:00

So this is my family…
First, there is me. Like how I put me first? He he he. You know me.
Second but no more important, is Logan. He is currently in the process of finishing his Ph.D. (I am literally squirming in my seat with excitement as I write this). He starts his new job up at Cleveland State University in the fall. Booo-ya!

My oldest son Oli only eats accumulatively one serving of veggies per week. He likes anything sports related and will banter with any stranger in any store about anything if he disagrees with the logo they are wearing. He is kind, patient and a wonderful older brother and son.
My daughter's name is Tulie. She is as strong as an ox and has crazy large Bam Bam feet. Everyone that meets her falls in love with her which is funny because she is by far the most ornery. However at night when she is sleeping and so quiet, in that moment, she's my favorite.
Sawyer is the baby. And when I say baby, I mean we still literally call him baby. Where's baby, or get baby a drink please. He gets whatever he wants because if he doesn't get it, he is pissed for hours. I know, I know, I shouldn't do that, but he is my third child and by the time you get to your third one, you don't worry and stress about when they start to walk or talk or even potty train. He is my cuddle bug and the only kid that will give me kisses - given I have to bribe him, and he often wipes them away while saying icky but you gotta do what you gotta do.

Picture credits: Christina Dixon

I have the best clients ever!!

2011-04-05T14:11:00.000-07:00

Growing a business is hard work. And stress-full and time consuming and HARD. Funny though, I can't stop myself. I love doing it. I love talking to my clients (I have the best clients by the way), scheduling photo shoots with them, helping them create a wonderful experience, taking their pictures, editing the images, updating my blog, buying new equipment, going to seminars, networking, sharing, mentoring, working. I am soooo lucky I love what I do!!

Here are a few more pictures from my KSU photo shoot. You would think she has had years of experience. But no. She is going to school to be a teacher. Yeah, really.

Kent State University Design

2011-04-04T10:01:00.000-07:00

I can't wait for summer to be here!! I can't wait to start my garden (I totally suck at gardening). I can't wait to take the kids to the beach, I am looking forward to short naps in the hammock in my backyard. I am excited for picnics, bike rides and warm summer photo shoots.

But until then, here is a fun photo shoot we got to do at the KSU Design building. Isn't the light fantastic? Kent State Fashion School hosted the Goodwill Personal Styling Competition and these outfits were put together by winners in the design program. There are a few winners, so I will post more soon.

"If you want to be me, be me. And if you want to be you, be you."

2011-03-31T11:14:00.000-07:00

So yesterday, I went to Jasmine Stars workshop here in Akron. AMAZING. If you are a photographer and are trying to hone your trade…. check her out!!! I took many things away from this conference but the things that I can't currently get off my mind is the emphasis she put on being ME. When I create blog posts or create advertising pieces, I am always thinking, "Well I don't want to turn this type of person off or I'd better not do it that way because it might not be someone else's style." Well, today is a new day. And I pride myself in being open to change and today, we are changing! And yes, I did just talk in third person. As Star would say it, "If you are going to do it, do it You. Don't just ruffle feathers… pluck chickens."
So what does plucking a chicken look like to me? Not exactly sure yet. However, I do know that from now on, I am not going to worry about me, my behavior, my style or my brand turning people off and away. You can't please everyone right? I am excited to be me!!!! Feels kinda liberating!

I am ordering my thank you cards from this wonderful designer out of California. Her name is Julie Fisher, and she has this rockin' shop on Etsy. She makes these amazing wedding invitations, save the dates, thank you cards and even business cards. The shop is called Go Go Snap. Did I mention that they are way affordable. Did I also mention that she is totally easy and fun to work with. And no, she is not paying me to say this….. good idea though, come to think of it.

Digging for props

2011-03-29T11:11:00.000-07:00

I am really looking forward to this years wedding season. It looks a little hectic but nothing I can't handle. I hope. I am always excited to see what my clients will come up with. Boy if I could do my wedding over again….. I can see it now, in a hundred different ways! I went antiquing with my two year old son Sawyer today. Talk about a bull in a china shop. A little stressful but we had a lot of fun. I was looking for a few new props for a couple engagement shoots this summer. I wish I could afford to redecorate my whole house with items from this antique store. I love old wood, old jewelry, old chairs. I like thinking about who owned them before me and what their story might be. Makes old junk a little special.
I found a babysitter for tonight!! Pretty excited to see Jasmine Star in Akron present. Oh the perks of living near a big city.

Big O...

2011-03-25T13:31:00.000-07:00

This little guy was so good. I think he whimpered once!!! The blanket above was all hand stitched by grandma. Talk about amazing. We are doing babies first year with baby O so you will get to see him grow. I smile as I write this because I think it is pretty special to be able to capture this part of someones life.