Documentary Family Photographer

Twenty Seventeen.

This year end post and the content is so dear to me. Its a statement of faithfulness and endurance. A reminder when I feel too weak to finish, I'll be given the strength to take another step and carry on. I don't go into a new year hoping for it to be a hard one, but it does have a unique way of shaping and molding in a way the easier seasons just don't. I want to remember and feel this until it truly informs 2018 and how I prepare for it.

I'm still processing this past year and its impact on me and will be for a while. The cross current beneath all of 2017 (and half of 2016!) has been a house remodel (post coming, soon). I cannot separate my photography work from the remodel, because I was so involved in much of it. It was my second job and seemed full time most of the time. I truly believe I had the perfect amount of photography work, however (and an amazingly helpful, forgiving, understanding and patient wife). These facts enabled me to juggle everything else on my plate this past year, but I never want to try it again. 

What a year.

I totally neglected the photography business and feel as though it took a step back after a very inspiring 2016. Momentum seems to have reversed for the first time in 6 years. Now, I'm left dusting myself off (literally and figuratively), picking up the pieces and getting this thing back on the right track. I'm so excited about this, though. 

More time to focus. To invest. Less housework.

Thankfully, I am very proud of the work I delivered to my amazing clients and friends this past year. Even though I felt at the end of myself on a weekly basis, inspiration, energy and motivation always came when needed. I cannot thank God enough for that. There have been so many moments of profound joy this past year and God continues to humble me. I don't deserve such amazing grace. You people. This job. All the moments I witnessed with a camera in hand.  

Thank you.

Here's to turning a page and starting afresh. But, always remembering the sweetness amidst tough and trial filled years. One wedding, one session, one destination and photo at a time. 

I Hope you enjoy this look back. The past two years have been filled with more film photography than ever and I'm finally feeling "comfortable" with the challenge/reward of it. I Hope you and yours start the new year off right and it's one of the best, yet.

Lets create something amazing together.

 

Peace out to my assistant for the past two seasons. Josiah, you'll be missed but I'm beyond excited for whats next for yah. Thanks so much for all the help, bro. 

Columbia Yacht Club Wedding Chicago Wedding-37.jpg

Lane Family

We explored a new place where the river carves its own path and long before paved trails or manicured lawns, the land was breathing and changing with its own rhythm. Ancient oak trees and dry flood plains set the stage. Youthful adventure. Finding insects and sticks while enjoying the warmth of the Fall sun on our faces. Just another casual family session, but so inspiring to me. I love this job for many reasons, but its such joy for me to observe and create using photography. For everyone who helps make this possible...THANK YOU. 

Dori Family / St. Paul, MN

I could write a novel about the Dori family. They mean a lot to me for many reasons. I met Roee about 4 years ago, shortly after they moved to MN from New York. I was assisting him on a wedding and brought along more gear than him and I'm sure he was wondering if I even knew how to use it. Fortunately for me, he kept asking me back.  Over the years a great friendship developed. We've photographed 30+ weddings together and experienced both highs and lows together. I've learned so much from him and was blown away when he asked me to photograph his family. His wife is a rockstar designer for IKEA and because of this, the family was moving to Sweden. We spent our time hanging out in their St. Paul home and along the parkway nearby. I dearly miss this fam and I'm so grateful to have this collection of photographs to remind me of them. If you are interested in booking a family portrait session and want more info, check out my new investment section. Winter is a great time to book a session in your home and it might be warm enough to venture outside as well. I'm currently offering 10% off during the months of February and March. Thanks so much for your support!1234567891011121314151617181919a202121a2223a2627282930313233