I first got into photography 12 years ago this summer. That seems so long ago when I say it, but in many ways it feels like that time went by in the blink of an eye. As a new photographer, I took every chance I had to practice the techniques I had learned in the photography classes I took in college. In many ways, it was trial and error. I was trying to still learn what the heck f-stop, shutter speed and ISO meant, but I was mostly concerned with making sure my shots were actually in focus. I didn’t have a digital SLR back then, so…

I would describe my photography style as light and airy, but when I’m doing editorial shoots I’m often given a vision by the editorial team that I need to help create. I like a challenge and trying new things, so I always get excited when they bring me a new idea.

For this shoot they wanted to focus on recipes that have stood the test of time…think of your great, great, great grandmother’s recipes, but of course there would be a modern twist.

Ten years of marriage is definitely something to celebrate and Toni and Ashton certainly celebrated in style. When Toni told me before the session that they would be staying at The Battle House hotel and having dinner there the evening of their anniversary to celebrate, I was so excited for them. The Battle House just has that special occasion feel to it and it is the perfect location for an anniversary session!

I love when I get to work with family friends. What I love even more is when they ask me to be in on a surprise! I love surprises! Well, at least I love being in on the planning of a surprise. 😉

When Traci contacted me about photographing a surprise anniversary party for her mother-in-law and father-in-law who are celebrating 50 years of marriage this year, it reminded me of

Brittany is 26 years old and faced with something that most of us will not face until we are in our 50s or older. She is the primary caregiver for her mother, who was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s three years ago. It was a surprising diagnosis and not something that Brittany expected to hear when she was in her early 20s. It has been a journey of ups and downs, hope and despair, but, most importantly, love.