Linnea Farnsworth Photography

2012-01-22T10:14:00.002-07:00

Just the other week I got a roll of film that I had taken last summer developed - finally. We've had such a mild winter, but now we finally have snow and I'm pouring over these photos as though it will somehow bring that warm sunshine back.

Shot this past Labor Day on fujichrome film on my F100.

Jeff

2012-01-15T18:31:00.003-07:00

I love Jeff so much. Every day I feel grateful to have such a wonderful, loving and funny husband.

From my first roll on my new contax 645, can't wait to shoot more!

First Year Bonding

2012-01-12T00:14:00.003-07:00

Last semester I worked on a project focusing on the bonding between a mother and baby throughout the first year. I have lots of wonderful outtakes that I will hopefully post another day, but here is the series I turned in. A huge thank you to all of the mothers who let me come spend time with them and their beautiful children.

Congrats!

2012-01-08T17:00:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Kristin and Jason, who won the favorite moments contest! Kristin, I'll be emailing you about which print you'd like for your 16x20!

Oh, those places you'll go...

2012-01-05T16:31:00.002-07:00

My little brother really inspired this shoot (just like he inspires a lot of what I do) by his love of planes and travel. Oh Christian, the places you'll go someday.

Paisley: A Birth Story.

2012-01-02T14:57:00.004-07:00

Generally I find that birth stories don't need much text - they story is beautiful by itself and doesn't need me blabbering away up here. But I just have to say this: if I look half as glamorous as Lisa did after having my first baby (let alone fourth!) I'll be a very happy woman.

Also, I understand her oldest daughter's joy at finally getting a sister. I have four brothers, and when my mother found out the youngest one was also a boy I was so unhappy I told my parents I would never talk to it. Yes, I was 15 and very immature. Glad I didn't stick to that rash decision, as I love Christian very much.

Wedding Moments in 2011 - vote for your favorite!

2011-12-30T16:37:00.007-07:00

As 2011 draws to a close, I took a moment to reflect on all of the wonderful weddings I have been lucky to be a part of this year. I have had so many amazing opportunities and have been able to grow so much as a photographer, plus I was lucky to have the best couples! I am so glad they each choose me as their wedding photographer and let me spend time with them on their wedding day, as well as engagements and bridal session and just getting to know them as people. I can't wait to see where life takes them, and I am grateful for facebook (which will actually let me see that!)

There are so many aspects of wedding photography that I love - the beautiful detail shots, the fantastic portraits - but above all my favorite part is capturing those fleeting moments that really tell the story of the day. Sometimes funny, sometimes incredibly sweet. I'd like to share with you some of my favorite moments from the weddings I shot during 2011.

Now, I invite each of you to leave a comment on this post telling me which moment is your favorite (they are numbered, to make this easier) and the couple with the most votes will win a 16x20 mounted print from their wedding. Please, only one vote per person. The winner will be announced January 7th.

Happy New Year!

1. I have never seen a groom dance with his mother as energetically as Billy did when he and Esther were married! He was having a great time - looks like his mom was doing her best just to hang on!

2. This picture from Trent and Kate's wedding is one of my favorites - this little ring bearer looks like he's plotting some real mischief!

3. I love this picture of Sarah taken during the ceremony at her and Colton's wedding. There was a lot of talk of their baby boy, Axtinn, who was in the NICU during the wedding - making the ceremony a very touching one.

4. Kyle took Katelyn by complete surprise and sang "The Luckiest One" to her at their reception while her dad accompanied him on the guitar.

5. Richard and Karen's wedding had some of the best dancing I saw all year! This makes me smile - we all need to put our hands up in the air sometime, singing AYO, gotta let go...

6. While preparing for the family pictures at Stephanie and Bryan's wedding, Stephanie's nieces ran up and grabbed her train. They explained to me (as if they were annoyed) "they make us do this every wedding." Her sweet face doesn't look annoyed to me, though!

7. Kelsi and her sisters were all laughs on her and Paul's wedding day! I was trying to coax Kelsi's youngest sister to show me her teeth while smiling (none of those tight lipped smiles for me!) and captured this shot as they all attempted to persuade her.

8. Photographing Rosie and Brady's family was such a breeze - they were so laid back and funny. While other family moved into position, Rosie's dad grabbed the bouquet and hammed it up!

9. This is the first photograph I took when Cynthia and Matt began dancing, and I knew it was going to be my favorite. I love the way she is looking up him, the gorgeous lights that frame them, and the watching crowd in the background.

10. After Tyler and Katie's ceremony, her bridesmaids gave her a little advice - judging by the looks on their faces I'm glad I didn't hear it all. ;-)

11. Dustin and Juls had blue candy covering their cake, and all the kids were eyeing it all night long. I love this picture of them cutting it, because you can see that anticipation in all the children behind them!

12. Before Jason and Kristin's ceremony, Kristin literally had to hike to get to the point where she was supposed to walk in with her father. To keep her dress clean, she stepped through a fitted bed sheet and wrapped it up, protecting the bottom of her dress!

13. During Ryan and Sarah's reception, Ryan decided to entertain his guests with some of his smooth moves. The best part came long after the wedding - when Sarah showed Ryan the photos he just shook his head and said, "I don't know."

Can you pick a favorite? I know I never could, so I'm going to have to leave it up to you! Make sure to leave a comment with the number of your favorite, and on January 7th I'll tally it up and announce which couple gets the 16x20. Thank you again - so so much - to all of these wonderful couples I photographed in 2011.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T12:47:00.004-07:00

Jeff and I had a lot of fun putting together our Christmas card this year - a nice little tribute to Norman Rockwell.

I also had to be creative brainstorming for my parents this year - with two children living out of the country, we had to find some way to get us all on there. Love how it turned out -

Hope you all have a wonderful holiday season!

Amelia Rose, 8 days new.

2011-12-20T21:01:00.004-07:00

Sweet little Amelia really has a head of hair! She didn't want to sleep much for us, too interested in this new world around her.

Everytime I look at this picture I start singing to myself "You'd better watch out, you'd better not cry! You'd better not pout, I'm telling you why.."

You can see Amelia's full session and order prints here.

Camden's story begins

2011-12-14T23:40:00.002-07:00

Continuing the catching up on the blog! Remember Kari's alligator shower? Her little Mr. Camden arrived in October, and he is just the sweetest thing. I was lucky to be able to photograph the Cam-man twice -which would explain why he has baby acne in some and not in others.

Ryan & Sarah, the wedding.

2011-12-10T16:23:00.008-07:00

I've fallen so far behind on blogging! However, I have been working on a lot of neat projects recently that I'm excited to share.

A few nights ago I had a nightmare about Sarah and Ryan's wedding, that I had only gotten one photograph of them and that was it. I woke up and had to remind myself that their wedding had already taken place, and that I had gotten several beautiful photos of them. So I thought in order to convince my subconscious, it was time to post them on the blog.

This wedding was beautiful - everything from the weather to the amazing wooden bowls in the centerpieces (that Sarah's dad made!) They were married in the Salt Lake Temple, had a luncheon at the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, and their reception was held at the beautiful Sun River Gardens. I am so happy for Ryan and Sarah, and am so glad they let me be there to photograph their wedding.

Jason & Kristin

2011-11-17T12:28:00.005-07:00

Jason and Kristin had the most gorgeous wedding, held at Log Haven up Millcreek Canyon. The fall colors were out in full, and absolutely beautiful. I love the whole feel of their wedding, particularly the colors.

There was a lot of laughter and love among the family and guests. I love being at a wedding where you can just feel how excited and happy everyone is, and it really comes out in the photos. Plus there was some really great dancing - I normally don't post a lot of dancing pictures, but I have to throw a few in to give a taste of what it was like. Made me want to drop the camera and join in!

Congratulations, Kristin and Jason! Thank you so much for having me there to capture your wedding, it was simply amazing.

You can see Jason and Kristin's full wedding and order prints here.

Kristin, you are so stunning.

Noah, 2 weeks.

2011-11-11T09:00:00.001-07:00

Sweet little Noah! I took these pictures about two weeks after he was born. I love his BYU jersey - for anyone who knows Anna and Dante it just fits their family so perfectly. I'm so excited to watch this little man grow!

You can see Noah's full session and order prints here.

Ryan and Sarah

2011-11-10T13:11:00.003-07:00

I love fall in Utah. And I love Sarah's dress, especially because it has pockets!

You can see Ryan and Sarah's full session and order prints here.

Dustin & Juls, the wedding.

2011-10-26T14:39:00.004-06:00

Dustin and Juls had a really elegant wedding - so much class with just a touch of spunk (a candy covered cake!) They were married in the Salt Lake Temple, had a beautiful luncheon at Cafe Molise in downtown Salt Lake, and partied at their reception held at The Point at the University of Utah. The Point gives such amazing views, particularly of sunset - their crystal draped centerpieces were glowing.

Congratulations, Dustin and Juls! Thanks for letting me be a part of your wedding day!

You can see Dustin & Juls' complete wedding and order prints here.

Noah: a birth story.

2011-10-24T13:09:00.004-06:00

Anna and I were actually planning to make pumpkin chocolate chip cookies this particular day, but then she decided to have a baby instead. In spite of my intense love for pumpkin+chocolate, it was the best possible choice for that beautiful Monday. Little Noah is such a sweetheart, and I couldn't be happier for Anna and Dante. What a sweet little happy family.

Tyler & Katie

2011-10-18T09:00:00.000-06:00

Tyler and Katie - bright, fun, fabulous! I loved the orange suspenders that all of the guys wore - such a great surprise under their jackets! They were married at the Salt Lake temple on a beautiful day in September. I was lucky to be able to work alongside David Perry at this wedding, and we had a great time with Katie and Tyler. Congratulations, you two!

You can see Tyler and Katie's complete wedding and order prints here.

Matthew & Cynthia

2011-10-11T09:58:00.004-06:00

When Cynthia and Matthew were planning their wedding, she mentioned that she didn't really care about having a traditional wedding cake. Naturally everyone else insisted she needed to have one - or something at least, even if it was cupcakes, pie, cobbler. Cobbler? Both Matt and Cynthia could easily get on board with that! Their wedding cobbler was one of the neatest things I have seen, and fit perfectly with their autumn colors. They were married late afternoon at the Bountiful Temple, and their reception stretched into a beautiful evening.

Congratulations, Matt and Cynthia! Your wedding was so much fun!

You can see Matthew & Cynthia's complete wedding and order prints here.

Cynthia and Matthew were married on her parent's anniversary, isn't that sweet?

I adore this picture of Cynthia breaking it down on the dance floor.

Victoria, 3 weeks.

2011-10-07T09:00:00.000-06:00

I remember finding out that Stacey was going to have a baby. It doesn't feel that long ago. We were crowded around the TV with some of the best girl friends anywhere, scarfing down kettle corn and hanging on every word of The Bachelor. Hard to believe that this little lady is already here!

Victoria is such a sweet little baby, and so lucky to be born into the family that she was. She is so well-loved!

Oh, and she has a dream nursery, complete with a closet of fantastic clothes. I'd love to spend my time in that room, rocking this sweetheart in that perfect (and amazingly comfortable) chair.

I know Stacey wasn't planning on having her picture taken as well, but I'm glad she let me take this. You can just see the bond there between them so plainly. I love it.

Kari's Alligator Shower

2011-10-03T09:00:00.001-06:00

My family moved across the street from Kari's when we were both four years old. We instantly became friends, as four-year-olds tend to do, and we have stayed close ever since. In fact, throughout middle school and high school I never took a single math class without her right by my side.

She'll be having a little baby boy this month, and I am so thrilled for her. We threw her a shower a few weekends ago, alligator themed (just like her nursery!) It was so much fun, full of friends (and their babies), laughter, and yummy food.

I wanted to share a few pictures, mostly because I'm so incredibly proud of my pineapple alligator sculpture. So easy to do, but made me look amazingly crafty and creative.

Obviously we all have very similar taste - because Kari ended up with three of the same onesie!!

Provo Tabernacle to be restored

2011-10-01T18:15:00.003-06:00

During the first LDS General Conference session today, it was announced that the Provo Tabernacle would be restored and and converted into a temple. I was so excited to hear this, because I loved this building and seeing it burn down was a hard thing.

It will be exciting to take pictures of the building as it is restored.

You can see more pictures I took of the building as it burned down here.

Brady & Rosie

2011-09-27T10:15:00.003-06:00

Brady and Rosie are one of those couples that is just cool. The type of cool that is casual and effortless. Rosie had a killer dress and bouquet, Brady made his own wedding ring (isn't that awesome??) and then you add in their amazing good looks - there is no question about it. They rock. Congrats, you guys.

You can see Brady and Rosie's complete wedding and order prints here.

Bingham Homecoming

2011-09-22T16:27:00.003-06:00

I took a few pictures of my little brother's Homecoming group. Don't they all look so snazzy? Snazzy is probably not a cool word for that age group anymore. Although, come to think of it, that wasn't really a cool word back when I was a teenager either. Perhaps I've always been an old fuddie-duddie at heart.

Bryan & Stephanie

2011-09-21T10:00:00.001-06:00

Bryan and Stephanie were married in the Mt Timpanogos temple on a beautiful Saturday in August. I was so glad to have a good chunk of time to take them around the grounds for photographers, they were so fun to take pictures of. Lots of laughing! The flower girls grabbed Stephanie's train to carry all by themselves - then explained that "they make us do this every time" - guess that family has had a few weddings in the last few years! I got a good laugh out of that.

Congratulations Bryan and Stephanie!!

You can see Bryan and Stephanie's complete wedding and order prints here.

Paul & Kelsi, married.

2011-09-15T16:35:00.002-06:00

A beachy-themed wedding in Utah? Yes please! Kelsi and Paul got married in what was probably the most beautiful backyard I have ever seen. So green and lush, with a gorgeous waterfall and twisting paths leading throughout. It was truly magical. All of the little details - from her flowing dress to the frosting on the cake - added to the elegant yet carefree feel of this celebration.

While I was editing this wedding I was thinking about how much I just everything about it. Then this voice in my head (sounding strangely like my older brother did back in '95) said "If you love it so much then why don't you marry it?" and I began to think about how I could go about marrying a wedding. I found that hilariously funny. That's when I knew I needed to go to bed and stop editing late at night.

Congrats, Paul and Kelsi! You had such a beautiful wedding, I'm so glad I could be there!

You can see Paul and Kelsi's complete wedding and order prints here.

The winding paths in the garden were a perfect place for Paul and Kelsi to have a first look before their ceremony and share a quiet moment together.

Their guests pinned their well wishes onto netting that was hung - too cute!

Rodney Smith's home

2011-09-12T15:24:00.006-06:00

While in New York last March I had the opportunity to go to Rodney Smith's home, meet him and listen to him speak. He was such a generous host, inviting us all into his home (and let us wander all over - his beautiful black and white prints hung throughout the house like the most amazing intimate gallery) and speaking openly about his career and how it developed. He is a photographer that truly inspires me, through both his work and his attitude toward it.

I took these photos outside his home, in black and white film-as a tribute to him, naturally. He had the most beautiful house and a stunning guest house as well.

Richard & Karen

2011-09-09T10:00:00.002-06:00

Richard and Karen were married at the Mt Timpanogos temple on a beautiful day in August. They had their reception at Le Chateau in Provo - such a great venue! All Events Photobooths was there with a photo-booth to capture all of the guests middle-school-afternoon-at-the-mall style. I love photo-booths, they are an awesome way to document those who came to celebrate. And with Jonathan Marriott, their DJ, the place was rocking and everyone danced the night away.

Congratulations, Richard and Karen! Thank you so much for letting me be a part of your wedding!

You can see Richard and Karen's complete wedding and order prints here.

Kyle & Katelyn's wedding!

2011-08-29T10:00:00.001-06:00

Katelyn and Kyle's wedding day was probably one of the most beautiful days Portland has ever had - sunny, green, gorgeous. They were married in the Portland LDS temple, and had a reception at the most picturesque farm in Salem. Katelyn put so many wonderful details into the reception, everything from the decor to the crepes (both sweet and savory!) that were served. Kyle surprised Katelyn by singing "The Luckiest One" to her while her dad accompanied him on the guitar, and Katelyn's sisters sang for them while they danced their first dance. So many personal touches that made this wedding something so special.

You can see Kyle and Katelyn's complete wedding and order prints here.

I love the energy and movement in this dance photo.

Sarah & Ryan, Engagements.

2011-08-15T10:00:00.001-06:00

Before Sarah came to school, she and her sister checked out her brother's roommates on Facebook. When they came to Ryan, her sister told her that she thought Sarah would end up dating Ryan. Boy, was she right. Sarah and Ryan are so sweet together.

Sarah is also a photographer, and in the BFA program at BYU with me. I roomed with her when we went to New York, and she is amazing. Fashionable, intellectual, and gorgeous. I love her.

You can see Ryan and Sarah's complete session and order prints here.

Salt City 50 Show

2011-08-13T14:27:00.001-06:00

I have a piece up today in the Salt City 50 show downtown Salt Lake, if you are in the area you should stop by and see it! It's at Slug Magazines Craft Lake City at the Gallivan Center from 2-8.

Oh Summer...

2011-08-10T10:00:00.000-06:00

...you are going by far too quickly.

Katelyn & Kyle

2011-08-01T10:30:00.001-06:00

On our way to this shoot, we encountered a flash flood. I won't deny that there was some mild panic felt by all of us in the van, as we began brainstorming indoor location ideas. But thankfully when we got up to Salt Lake the rain was nothing but a light sprinkle, and gave us beautiful lush greenery and a soft light.

Katelyn and Kyle, you are such a gorgeous couple.

You can see Kyle and Katelyn's complete session and order prints here.

Ebony & Ivory

2011-07-29T10:00:00.002-06:00

This is my grandparent's piano. I love the chips in the keys - this piano has played so many songs over the years.

Shot on Portra 400.

Paul & Kelsi, Engagements.

2011-07-27T10:30:00.000-06:00

Paul and Kelsi are high school sweethearts and the cutest couple ever. Kelsi loves the water, so we headed down to Utah Lake to shoot their engagement portraits. It was a warm and beautiful evening, and I wish we could have headed out on a boat!

Looking forward to their wedding in August!

You see Paul and Kelsi's complete session and order prints here.

Marren's Senior Pictures

2011-07-25T11:51:00.003-06:00

This is my fabulous and gorgeous cousin, Marren. She is going to be a senior this fall. Oh, and by the way, she's amazing. She placed first in her division in the Seattle Rock'n'Roll 1/2 Marathon last month with a PR of 1:32.40. That's right, amazing. She dislikes board games and her first love was Jim Morrison.

You see Marren's complete session and order prints here.

The Oldyweds.

2011-07-22T11:08:00.004-06:00

"Newlyweds become Oldyweds, and oldyweds are what keep our family together."
-anonymous

This summer my Morfar and Mormor (Mother's Father and Mother's Mother in Swedish) celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary, officially taking them out of the newlywed stage!

We threw a wonderful party to celebrate, and gave them an enormous album with pictures from their 50 years together. Affectionately known as the "Morfs" they are such an important part of our family, and I love them so much.

Colton & Sarah, the wedding.

2011-07-20T13:46:00.004-06:00

Colton and Sarah had a beautiful wedding held at Aspen Landing in Taylorsville at the end of June.

There was something very different and very sweet about their wedding. Most couples are promising to stick by each other through the difficult times in their vows without much of an idea of what those difficult times will be. Sarah and Colton are right in the midst of one of those tough times right now, however. Sarah went into labor very prematurely about a week before their wedding, and gave birth to their sweet little boy, Axtinn Nolan. Axtinn only weighed 1 lb 9 oz when he was born, and continues to stay in intensive care. I know that the decision to move forward with the wedding was a difficult one for Sarah and Colton, but to me it made for such a beautiful ceremony. It was obvious how much Sarah and Colton are relying on each other right now, need each other, and really wanted to be joined together as husband and wife. It was wonderful to see their families come together in support and how much love there was in the garden where they were married.

Thank you for letting me be a part of your wedding, Sarah and Colton. I'm excited to see your little boy grow.

You see Sarah and Colton's complete wedding and order prints here.

A girl and her doll.

2011-07-18T11:08:00.003-06:00

The bond between a little girl and her baby doll is a unique one. No one else tucks their baby in for a nap anywhere they may happen to be - the lawn, the deck, right next to a blaring TV. This sweet baby doll had been sitting around our house for a while with no plans for any type of future. Then I discovered K-Lou loved "dollys" and knew right away where this doll belonged. They are adorable together, and look so much alike!

The Condo on Lake Union

2011-07-15T10:00:00.000-06:00

I'd like to live here.

Shot on Kodak Portra 400.

Phantom Lake

2011-07-14T14:53:00.001-06:00

My grandparents live on this beautiful little lake up in Bellevue, Washington. This is their dock, which took a beating this last week by the grandchildren at our family reunion. Here it a rare peaceful moment, the kids were all inside playing a board game and I snuck down to capture this beautiful sunset.

I fell off the dock once and into the lake - when I was about 9. I'm not sure how it happened, one minute I was standing there (glancing nervously over my shoulder, we children aren't allowed down there unsupervised - for good reason, judging by this story) and next thing I knew I was in the water. My clearest memory of that day is what I was wearing, strangely enough. It was a Mickey Mouse t-shirt, white with a navy blue ringer collar. Glad I knew how to swim.

Dustin & Juls

2011-07-13T01:37:00.000-06:00

I spent a beautiful evening up in Park City with Dustin and Juls, searching for parking spots and capturing their sweet relationship. Their first date was actually there in Park City - at one of the same parks we stopped at! Talk about coming full circle. Dustin was unsuccessful in convincing Juls to throw her shoes up into Park City's Shoe Tree - which makes sense - those were some adorable yellow shoes!

You can view their full session and order prints here.

Fourth of July on Lake Union

2011-07-11T12:22:00.000-06:00

Happy Fourth of July...a week late! Jeff and I spent the holiday up in Seattle. My uncle has a condo with the most amazing view of Lake Union, and we had prime seats for their firework display.

We returned home this morning, and I wanted to share some pictures of the show. If you've emailed me while I was gone I will be getting back to you today - thank you for your patience!

Down in the foreground is the houseboat where they filmed a lot of Sleepless in Seattle!

Jeff flew in Monday evening, and after about half an hour with my little cousin Kristina she was completely in love with him. They became the best of friends. I can't say I blame her, he's a pretty great guy.

No Fourth of July celebrating would be complete without amazing dessert, and no Swedish celebration is complete without Princess Torte!

Personal Work Gallery

2011-06-30T14:01:00.000-06:00

I'm excited to announce that I have put up a gallery where prints of my personal work may be ordered! You can view my personal work gallery here.

I will be continuing to add photos to the gallery as time goes on. If there was a particular photograph you were hoping to see that isn't included in the gallery yet, send me an email and let me know!

Thank you all for your support and for reading the blog!

Ryan Innes, Truman & Brooke White

2011-06-27T12:07:00.000-06:00

Friday night I had the opportunity to photograph a concert featuring some very talented artists, held at the Tahitian Noni Gardens in Provo. The gardens are so beautiful in the summertime, and the amphitheater there is such a neat venue.

The first performer was Ryan Innes - which I was so excited about because I love his voice. So much. I read on his website that someone compared his voice to a Lindor truffle and I decided that is a perfect comparison. Lindor white chocolate truffles and Ryan Innes' voice are two of my favorite things. It also describes him on his website this way: "If Michael Buble and Joni Mitchell had a love child raised by Jimi Hendrix and babysat by Norah Jones, that child would be Ryan Innes." Check out Ryan's website here and stream one of my favorites, Something Natural, or look him up on itunes and buy a copy of his version of Georgia On My Mind - another favorite of mine.

The second act was Truman. Ben and Chad's father is a member of the band Diamond Rio, and the brothers sing a little of everything - from country to jazz, and did a fabulous cover of Pure Imagination. They have a Myspace page here.

The final performer was Brooke White, who was an American Idol contestant in 2009. To be honest, I rarely watch AI, but I did know who Brooke was because she was on the same season as David Archuletta, and living in Utah that season made AI ignorance impossible. Brooke did a wonderful job performing, she played both the piano and guitar and even debuted a few new songs with Jack Matranga that will be on their EP for their new duo, Jack and White. The crowd really loved Brooke, shouting out all sorts of compliments at her and really interacting with everything she said.

The Blazer Project: Janet

2011-06-25T15:49:00.000-06:00

The Blazer Project: Kirsti

2011-06-24T10:56:00.000-06:00

The Blazer Project: Jay

2011-06-23T11:30:00.001-06:00

The Blazer that inspired this project -

The Blazer Project: Mary

2011-06-22T11:58:00.000-06:00

The Blazer Project: Howard

2011-06-21T11:53:00.000-06:00

The Blazer Project: Intro & Gaylen

2011-06-20T15:37:00.000-06:00

This is a project I worked on last semester. I really enjoyed doing this - the stories I got to hear were so interesting! If you have an old garment and would like to be part of my project, please email me!

Keep checking back all week - I will be posting part of this project each day!

This project was hand bound into a book (by me, thank you bookbinding class) and I have excerpted the text to display here on the blog. Old snapshots have been provided by the subjects and are used with their permission. The actual book is printed on gorgeous paper - if you ever come by my place and would like to see it, let me know!

Plays well with others.

2011-06-16T17:03:00.001-06:00

One of the most wonderful thing I've gained from photography is the amazing people and friends I've made because of it. I rub shoulders with some truly incredible people, who inspire me and also keep me laughing.

One of those people is Rebekah Westover. I was lucky to be able to assist her on this shoot a few weeks ago, go check it out! The amazing Kristen Muirhead modeled, another woman who is near and dear to my heart.

Little known fact: one of my main jobs as an assistant was to sing songs from Flight of the Concords to try to throw off the concentration of model and/or main photographer.

Kent Manor

2011-06-10T15:18:00.002-06:00

Jeff and I love to stay in historical bed and breakfasts. There is something so magical about them - so much character in a place like that. While we were in Maryland in April we went out to the Kent Manor, just outside of Annapolis, for a night.

What a beautiful property! Canoes, bikes, an impressive house - it was so much fun. I would love to photograph a wedding here, it would not be hard to find romance in such a landscape.

It was also the perfect setting for waking up early in the morning and watching the Royal Wedding. Jeff slept through most of it, but I made him wake up for the important bits.

I remembered how much I love riding bikes while we were here. Jeff kept trying to persuade me to get off so we could get on with our day, and I would just laugh and ride away from him. I guess it brought out the child in me..and brought a 5-year-old's attitude along with it.

I would recommend it for a stay - check out their website here.

Brielle

2011-06-08T15:37:00.001-06:00

Oh, to be 7 years old again. Brielle was sweet and helped me out with a project last semester, but I never posted it. Here it is!

Sawyer: 2 Months.

2011-06-06T16:37:00.002-06:00

Sweet little Sawyer. Two months old, quite a talker, smiles for Daddy. Mommy's little man.

Annapolis, Maryland

2011-06-03T10:36:00.000-06:00

Such a charming, quaint little fishing town. Jeff and I enjoyed the afternoon we spent there last April.

I love little cupcake shops. Jeff says they are overpriced, but he is always willing to go inside. Either he thinks a few dollars is worth it to make me happy, or maybe he secretly loves them, too. This was Nostalgic Cupcakes.

Katelyn & Kyle

2011-06-01T16:00:00.000-06:00

I met Katelyn a few years ago when we lived in the same apartment complex. I'm so excited for her and Kyle. There life will definitely be filled with love and laughter.

You can view Katelyn and Kyle's full gallery here.

Trent & Kate, the wedding.

2011-05-24T11:27:00.001-06:00

Trent and Kate's beautiful ceremony took place in a gorgeous backyard on a chilly day in May. Although the sky was threatening to rain, it never did and instead those clouds gave gorgeous diffused light. Everything - the beautiful waterfall in the yard, the amazing details (Kate made the hanging yellow topiary balls herself!), the intimate setting, that Trent and Kate chose to share to be married on her grandparent's anniversary - made this wedding pure romance.

I did make a half-hearted attempt to not post all the pictures from the day, and I guess I succeeded somewhat because this isn't all of them. If you're like me and just can't get enough of this wedding, you can view Kate and Trent's full gallery here.

Our 3rd Anniversary

2011-05-23T09:43:00.001-06:00

Three years ago today Jeff and I got married. These last three years have been absolutely amazing. Jeff is such an amazing support to me, especially when it comes to photography - listening when I get down and frustrated, encouraging me to keep going, and going along with whatever crazy idea I come up with. I can't wait to see what this next year holds for us.
This picture is on my website, but I never blogged it. This is Jeff and I before going to the Governor's Gala last September. (The most commonly asked question I get about this picture is if my hair was really short when it was taken - the answer is no, it was just pinned up.)

Happy Anniversary, sweetheart.

Cortney's Senior Pictures

2011-05-20T16:39:00.000-06:00

Isn't Cortney gorgeous?

You can view her complete session here.

Fort McHenry

2011-05-18T14:12:00.000-06:00

When Jeff and I visited out in DC a few weeks ago, I insisted that we make a trip out to Fort McHenry.

This was not my first sojourn to the fort. When I was in the eighth grade I petitioned my dad's boss to let me accompany him on a trip back to Washington DC, explaining that I was studying Fort McHenry at school and would greatly benefit from the excursion. I was a clueless 14-year-old and no respecter of persons - I had no comprehension that Mr. Hughes was actually a very important man and that I was being very bold to draft such an email. However, boldness sometimes pays off, and I got to go.

I actually don't remember much from that first trip to Fort McHenry - my dad blames it on my being a teenager, but I like to point out that my luggage was lost and I was in the same clothes all weekend, plus I was exhausted. However, one story from that trip gets told again and again in our family. I was in one of the buildings, looking at the displays, and Yankee Doodle was playing. I began to whistle along - I can whistle quite loud - and danced a little jig. Finishing my dance, I turned to find an elderly couple standing in the doorway, just watching. I may not have been embarrassed about sending bold emails, but I certainly was when caught in my song and dance!

Fort McHenry is such a fascinating place, such beautiful history there.

I danced in the same spot again this trip - although the only person there to watch me this time was Jeff. Yankee Doodle is just such a catchy tune.

Billy & Esther, married.

2011-05-16T11:45:00.001-06:00

How does the classic fairy tale love story go? Boy walks into frozen yogurt shop, sees the girl behind the counter, eats a ton of frozen yogurt in the next few weeks in an effort to get her attention, woos her, has the most elegant wedding and sweeps her off to Kentucky? Isn't that it?

Well, it was in this case, at least. Oh, Billy and Esther. How do I begin to describe their fantastic wedding, held at the Joseph Smith Memorial Building? It was everything a wedding should be - lots of jokes and laughter, tender declarations of love, good food, beautiful details, and all around joy. The perfect fairy tale ending, or rather, beginning. :-)

View Billy and Esther's complete wedding here.

LDS Business College Graduation

2011-05-13T10:41:00.000-06:00

LDS Business College Graduation was held at the Mormon Tabernacle in Temple Square on April 14, 2011. Elder Russell M. Nelson was given the 2011 Distinguished Alumni award, and attended many of the commencement activities.

Congratulations to all who graduated!

Kate's Bridals

2011-05-11T11:08:00.000-06:00

Now that Kate and Trent have tied the knot, her fabulous dress no longer needs to be a secret and I can post her bridal portraits! That skirt is divine, like a meringue...delicious.

View Kate's complete bridal session here.

iMatter March - Salt Lake City, Utah

2011-05-09T21:36:00.000-06:00

I had the chance to photograph the iMatter March downtown Salt Lake on Saturday, May 7. A group of Utahns - mainly youth - marched from the Federal Building to the Live Green Festival at Library Square in order to raise awareness about global climate change. They waved signs, sang songs, and chanted to show their commitment to the cause. When they reached Library Square they also held a sing-along there in the mini-amphitheater.

Check out this cool recycled triceratops.

Happy Mother's Day, Mom.

2011-05-08T13:49:00.000-06:00

Happy Mother's Day to the best mom around. I am so grateful to have a mother who is also such a wonderful and close friend. Today I often have my mother's voice in my head, usually reminding me to be a better person and always react with kindness.

The best piece of advice my mom ever gave me was this: don't try to sew after 10 pm. I have realized she spoke the truth when she said this many, many times.

Oh, and did I mention my mom is beautiful and fabulous? See for yourself - here are some recent photos.

LDSBC Interior Design

2011-05-06T22:42:00.001-06:00

Occasionally I get the opportunity to shoot events for LDS Business College. A few weeks ago I attended the Fox Society Luncheon and was able to see the Interior Design students showcase. There were some really amazing displays there by the graduating students.

The neatest thing about this event was seeing some of the students who had been on scholarship meeting the donors that made their education possible, and having the chance to show them first hand what their gift has accomplished.

Fredrick and Livia

2011-05-03T22:43:00.001-06:00

I think sometimes I get so caught up in trying to get the perfect shot - one that is completely flawless technically, looking like it came right from the glossy pages of a magazine.

But then there are times like this - with a strong willed 18-month-old, and a one-month-old who likes to scream. And these are the times when I realize that this is what photography is really about for me. It's not about perfection. It's about capturing what I want to remember - a funny little boy who is often rather stoic, but at times gets in these crazy silly moods. Who likes to read Goodnight, Moon - upside-down, apparently. A sweet little baby girl who loves to be held, with beautiful deep brown eyes.

So I present to you my beautiful, sweet nephew and niece. Distance between loved ones is so hard, and the miles between us are going to become even more enormous soon. Fredrick and Livia, I love you so much, and I am so lucky to have been able to spend the last week with you. You are perfection for me.

Crowds in DC

2011-05-02T09:17:00.001-06:00

Last night after the news was broken about Osama bin Laden's death, Jeff and I decided to go down to the crowds around the White House and document what was going on.

The atmosphere was jubilant, people were chanting, singing, cheering. While a bit disconcerting to see cheering over the death of an individual, I believe the intense emotion many feel understandably turned into this type of reaction - especially in an enormous crowd like gathered last night. Seeing that a man like Osama bin Laden has finally been stopped - a man who brought about the death of so many along with the physical and emotional pain and scarring of countless others - is a very monumental event for many Americans who feel relief that he will be unable to continue to hurt and kill. True, al-Qaida is not dead, but this does send a strong message to them, the American people, and the world. It is obvious that many feel optimistic about a more peaceful world in the future.

Sawyer: A Birth Story.

2011-04-14T11:23:00.000-06:00

When I met Emilie last year, we became fast friends right away. I'm so excited for her, Jake, and their new little man Sawyer. He was a big, healthy boy - 9 lbs 6 oz! He has the sweetest little face and the cutest smile!

Thanks, Cahoons, for inviting me to come document your special day. I wish you a speedy recovery!

Esther's Bridals.

2011-04-12T11:01:00.000-06:00

Shooting bridal portraits in April in Utah definitely isn't easy - especially this April. The weather has been all over the place. We ended up scurrying to find an indoor location for Esther's shoot, and the Armstrong Mansion generously welcomed us.

Esther, you are gorgeous.

View Esther's complete bridal session here.

Colton & Sarah

2011-04-07T15:42:00.000-06:00

I've known Colton for years and years. He and my younger brother were best friends growing up, and we have countless memories of near-disaster experiences while I was babysitting them.

It's so fun to see Colton so happy with Sarah. I photographed Sarah's family last fall, and was thrilled to work with her again. She's such a natural in front of the camera!

You can view the full session and order prints here.

New York

2011-04-06T14:13:00.000-06:00

I had a wonderful opportunity to travel to New York with some classmates early in March. We were able to visit with some really amazing photographers who were so generous to share their time with us. Finally getting around to putting some photos from the trip on the blog...

Trent & Kate.

2011-03-28T20:36:00.000-06:00

I had so much fun photographing these two. They were so great to work with, and didn't laugh (too hard) when I got stuck in the mud. :-)

Billy + Esther

2011-03-21T23:26:00.001-06:00

Billy and Esther are so much fun. Jeff and I had a blast hanging out with them - it really felt more like hanging out than a photoshoot. :-)

Can't wait for your wedding!

You can see the full session and order prints here.

Cole.

2011-03-19T00:13:00.001-06:00

Sweet baby Cole.

See the full session and order prints here.

Extension in Yellow

2011-02-18T22:49:00.001-07:00

Jeff and I live in a lovely little place we call "The Duplex." It has its charms, and its...not-so-charms, too. Occasionally we talk about moving, then we start looking around and realize again how much we love The Duplex.

When we moved in - nearly three years ago now - we were amused to find that our plates were the same color as the cupboards. An exact match. Just another little sign that The Duplex and us were meant to be.

Cole: A Birth Story.

2011-02-13T19:54:00.000-07:00

I have a journal from 8th grade where I wrote about how much I admired my friend Tiffani. I just thought the world of her. We procrastinated homework by playing Boggle and worked on school projects late into the night. Sleepovers, deep talks, and a shared secret liking of silly romantic novels.

I still do think the world of her now - and I have never admired her more than last night, while documenting her first child being born. Cole didn't have the smoothest entrance into the world, but he is adorable and doing well now.

Tiffani did tell me she wants a rematch at Banana Grams - when she's not in labor.

Analogous Pepper.

2011-01-27T15:00:00.000-07:00

I love to cook, and when it's cold outside (or practically frigid, like now) I always want to cook something warm. We do a lot of soups and pasta dishes, and generally I end up throwing some type of pepper in - be it golden, red, green, etc. So declicious. And looking at this picture makes me feel warm right now, despite the fact that I'm actually shivering in my sweatpants.

High Key Beauty Shot

2011-01-26T22:57:00.001-07:00

Thanks to the fabulous Lauren for being my model.

It's nice to be in the studio when it's so cold outside!!

Provo Tabernacle Fire

2010-12-17T12:38:00.000-07:00

I've spent many Sundays in this beautiful old building, playing hangman and the dots game. There was even the time that Jeff and I had the time wrong for Stake Conference and showed up almost an hour early - we still would have been late for the time we thought it started - and got to sit on the third row. (Only the third row because there are apparently people who show up a full hour early to get that first row.) Best seats we'd ever had.

I'm really sad to see this building burned. There was a hallway in the back that had gorgeous old photographs from over the years of the Tabernacle that I loved to look at. The historical significance of the building alone makes this a real tragedy.

(Also, I'm glad Jeff and Uncle Erik were able to put their Noni/Nu Skin differences aside long enough for us to go out on the roof.)

Really sorry to see this one go.

Lucia 2010

2010-12-15T11:29:00.000-07:00

Photo essay on the Utah Swedish Heritage Society's Lucia program this year.

Coming from a very Scandinavian family, Lucia is something I look forward to attending every year. I was Lucia myself five years ago...which makes me start to feel old.

Cory & Sharlie

2010-12-10T12:30:00.001-07:00

Cory and Sharlie are such a fun, playful couple. We had a great time getting some formal shots of them before their wedding next week.
The amazing flowers were done by Brittney Erb.

Muhlestein Family

2010-12-08T12:03:00.000-07:00

This family was a lot of fun - despite the extreme cold! Thanks for sticking it out, you guys.

Crossing the Country in 1932

2010-11-18T16:06:00.001-07:00

Last Spring I was practically living in the darkroom. At one point, when I left for some food and non-chemical-air, I discovered a small package sent to me by my Morfar. Inside were several negatives from a trip that his mother - my great grandmother - had taken in 1932. At the time she was teaching in Oregon, and was invited to go to the National Teacher's Convention in Atlantic City, New Jersey. She drove with the principal, Errol Rees, and his wife, Ardell. Two other teachers went with them. They drove all the way from Oregon to New Jersey in a Model A Ford - can you imagine?

These negatives had never been printed. though there was a list of negatives she had written that she would have liked to have printed along with some descriptions. Fortunately, she also wrote about the trip in a book about our family history that she put together.

I printed some of the negatives in the darkroom, but have also scanned in many of them. They fascinate me. This is one of the things that really draws me to photography in general - the ability to preserve moments in a way that allows future generations to share in them.

A picture says 1,000 words, of course. However, I found this short paragraph in her written account to be just as interesting -
"Before we left, I had my first permanent wave, so it would be easier to care for my hair. They used a machine with clamps over the rollers and when it was turned on the electricity made the clamps very hot. Of course, they didn't consider how fine my hair is and that overheating it would cause it to become frizzy. Three days later, not having been able to get a comb through my hair, I found a Beauty Parlor in Indiana. They spent three hours trying to comb and style it. Hair spray had not yet been invented."

She writes that this was the last living slave from the family that served the George Washington family.

Sailing around one afternoon on 'Harry Hackney's Famous Yacht'!

I knew my great-grandmother, who passed away in 2005. But these pictures help me to get to know her in a new way, to know more about her past and personality when she was closer to my age. It reminds me the importance of continually documenting my life, rather than waiting for the perfect moments.

Aida

2010-11-14T21:28:00.000-07:00

This weekend I saw a middle school production of Aida. The level of professionalism was way above middle school standards - I know I wasn't the only one in the audience that was completely blown away. To view the full gallery and order prints, click here.

Love Like Salt

2010-11-07T20:57:00.000-07:00

Do you remember the old Italian fable about the young princess who tells her father that she loves him as meat loves salt? He gets offended, dismisses her, but she serves a banquet with no salt and gets back in his good graces. Giving us the wonderful message that without salt, life is bland.

I got my fill of salt last Friday, heading out with some other classmates and our professor, John Telford, on a day trip. We went first to Saltair and finished up at the Salt Flats. We shot a lot on the 4x5 cameras, but took some digital photos as well.

The one thing we were missing was some good meat to go with all of that salt. We planned to find a good buffet for dinner in West Wendover, but when we got there we discovered that since it was Friday night, the buffet was $25 per person. And since we're all poor college students, we chose to instead feast at the local McDonalds. Fast food in Wendover - what an exotic trip!

Up Provo Canyon

2010-11-04T00:53:00.001-06:00

Zoning is hard. I have a love/hate relationship with the 4x5 camera. Hate because taking it out causes me anxiety, my hands smell like fixer all the time, and all the technical aspects make my head want to explode.

But I have an deep love for it too, because I end up with things like this.

Up Provo canyon early one Sunday morning. It was freezing.
Shot on TMax 400.

A Perfect World.

2010-10-25T21:49:00.000-06:00

One of my assignments in my digital class this semester was to create a perfect world using at least 4 different photographs.
Here is what I came up with - in my perfect world, Jeff and I would be traveling the world, foot-loose and fancy free. I also used several things from the 1950s - the luggage, clothing, Jeff's hat, the DC3 in the sky, the camera perched on the suitcase - because I wanted to evoke a time when flying was a privilege and something exciting, as opposed to now, when people take it for granted and complain about 20 minute delays. Which I of course have never done.

Of course, Jeff and I do not live in a perfect world. And this is a little more what our world looks like...and the funniest outtake I have seen in a long time. It was super stormy and windy when we took the photos of us, combined with the awkwardness of a tripod and a timer and running back and forth up and down a hill over and over. Despite Jeff's extreme worry here, he managed to still look at the camera as it snapped.

Joe & Emma

2010-10-17T17:01:00.000-06:00

I met Emma about a year ago - she was a wedding planner for another wedding I photographed. I was thrilled when she asked me to photograph her own wedding this Autumn. She and Joe got married on a beautiful fall day at the Timpanogus Temple in Utah. I love her crisp, fall color scheme! Congratulations, Emma and Joe!

Lindsay Aline in Concert

2010-10-11T15:05:00.001-06:00

I had a great time photographing Lindsay Aline and her awesome band at their concert over the weekend at the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Theater in Salt Lake. Such a great energy - it was a blast to photograph!

Miles.

2010-09-21T22:58:00.002-06:00

Last January I was sitting with Kristina one morning waiting for class to start. I started telling her about all of these crazy things Jeff had been telling me could happen during labor - terrible, awful things. I went on and on about how even though Jeff swore up and down that these were rare occurrences, they were just about enough to scare me away from ever having children.
Later on that day I sent her a text asking if she was planning on going with the photography program to Miami in the Spring. She replied and said she wasn't sure - she had just found out the day before that she was pregnant, so that would obviously factor in to her future plans.

Oh. Whoops.

Luckily I hadn't scared her off from having children. Fast forward nine months later and you find us dancing around each other shooting away at the most beautiful little boy in the world. Isn't he gorgeous?

I love him.

Von & Tiphani

2010-09-10T13:18:00.000-06:00

Tiphani's mom gave her these pearls for her wedding, to continue to be passed down to future brides in the family. Aren't they beautiful?

The Manti Temple is gorgeous.

Curtis&Heidi.

2010-08-30T01:11:00.000-06:00

I had the wonderful opportunity to shoot my good friend Heidi's wedding out in Sacramento at the LDS temple. Oh, that beautiful California sunshine! Curtis and Heidi had such a lovely wedding, and looked like rock-stars. I have about a gazillion to share - there are just too many gorgeous shots (and I know Heidi loves pictures as much as I do.) Congratulations!

M+S

2010-08-28T00:18:00.000-06:00

Another wedding I shot with my friend Kristina Curtis. Loving all the details - and of course, a bride with cupcakes from The Sweet Tooth Fairy Bakery is a girl after my own heart.

The favors were wash clothes formed to be cupcakes - how cute is that??

And it isn't every wedding where you can get a terrific and unique ring shot like this one - who better to trust your rings with than Skelator?

Sneak Peek for Kristina.

2010-08-14T19:14:00.001-06:00

I cannot wait for your little man to get here. :-)
So many fun shots - many more to come.

Another Cupcake

2010-08-08T14:30:00.001-06:00

Cheesecake flavored with a few blueberries I added...mmm. From The Sweet Tooth Fairy Bakery.

My New Favorite

2010-08-07T11:54:00.000-06:00

Taken with my new camera - also a favorite.

Kathryn & Chad...the wedding.

2010-06-29T23:27:00.000-06:00

Such a gorgeous wedding, such a gorgeous couple.

Ruffles & Feathers

2010-06-18T19:31:00.000-06:00

I had a lot of fun shooting up in Midway yesterday with some other local photographers. These little girls were such wonderful models, so sweet and cooperative!

She wonders whether the promised reward of an M&M shake is really worth all this posing...I hope it was! :-)

Jake & Krissy

2010-06-12T00:29:00.000-06:00