Had the opportunity to take family portraits of a great family on beautiful Lake Coeur D’alene. The pictures were a Father’s Day gift from the oldest daughter to their dad. In my opinion, that beats a shirt or tie as a gift. They were a lot of fun to hang out with and it was obvious that they really like being with each other. I think it shows in their pictures.

Thanks to Reagan for her help as my assistant on this shoot.

Now for the photos. Click to see…

A little different iPhone shot for today. Not so much an artistic shot as a preview for some great photos I am getting prepped. I shot this couple’s engagements and took this picture while they were getting a preview. I could not be more happy with how they’ve turned out so far. Can’t wait to share.

#25: Engagement Shoot Preview

Recently I had the opportunity to shoot headshots for model/actress Melanie. My goal here was to capture as many different looks as I could in the span of a couple of hours at one location.

The weather was teasing me all day. There would be beautiful weather for a few minutes followed by stormy showers. This went back and forth even as I was driving to the shoot location. When I arrived with lights and camera in tow there was one clear spot in the sky surrounded by ominous rain clouds. We rushed to get things set up and start shooting until the rain came, but fortunately the clear spot expanded until there were no clouds left by the time we were done. Dodged a bullet there.

Melanie was a trooper. Sporting heels that would have come to my knees, she trekked through the wet grass and dirt while carrying her various wardrobe changes never complaining once and even joking that she grew up camping and was used to this. While we’re in spring the weather got downright cold as the sun was setting and the wind picked up. I had a blanket so Melanie could keep warm while I was setting up my lights but in reality she didn’t end up using it much. I would have. I guess I’m a wuss.

I try to keep photoshoots pretty light. Joking around is not only acceptable, it’s nearly required. Fortunately this wasn’t a problem at this shoot. On more than one occasion I’m sure we were laughing so loudly that we upset the solemn mood of the prom-goers getting their photographs taken nearby.

I hope you enjoy these as much as we enjoyed making them. On with the photos of the tree hugger .

(click on them for the uncropped version)

Here’s a family that I was lucky enough to be able to shoot. Each one was adorable and quite a bit of fun. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen such patient children. Each child waited their turn and when it was their time in front of the camera they were raring to go.

Honestly, when kids are this cute and fun in front of the lens, the best thing I can do is get out of the way and follow their lead. Besides, if I could get away with a mohawk, I’d wear it in a second.

Here are some of the photos from the session…