A very personal memorial day

Both of my grandfathers served in Korea. I have uncles and cousins who have served in the military. It is one of the most unselfish, brave things a man or woman can do. I think for the most part we live unaffected by people serving our country. Until it is someone you know, you don't think about the dangers and the possible things they will encounter. To all who have bravely served in our military a humble thank you. We honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice.

In case you were wondering my grandfather, Ray, is one sitting in front. He had friendships with his fellow veterans that long outlived the war they served in.

Cultivating Confidence-Stefanie's story

I used to worry so much about fitting in, being a part of the "cool" crowd". I think this is a common problem most young women face early in life. In reality, we should embrace being different, and paving our own path - not following someone else, or blending in. I am really proud to say that I stopped putting so much pressure on life, and following my heart and faith.

I visited an art show once, and there was a collage made my an artist that had the quote "Mistakes are Merely Steps up the Ladder" - Paul J. Meyer ... Ever since seeing that quote, I think the best message is to stop worrying so much if you make a mistake. Every error is a lesson learned and a chance to grow...

Model Shoot-DFW photographer

This year I decided I wanted to try something different. I had been following the blogs of Jean Smith of Jean Smith Photography and Travis Smith of Boka Studios. They are an amazing husband and wife team who photograph with very different styles. She is mostly natural light and he is more studio lighting and fashion. I often draw inspiration from people who photograph entirely different subjects than I do. It gets me out of my ruts and gives me ideas for different shoots. After months of following their blog and trying a jedi mind trick to make them want to hold a workshop, they announced they were doing one. The workshop was a few weeks ago. I highly recommend it. It is called the He Said She Said workshop. We got to learn so much from them: workflow, lighting, posing and marketing. It was one full day of awesomeness! They are in Detroit (in case you were wondering). I turned more than one head when I told my friends I was going. I have to say, the people of Detroit were lovely. They also don't appreciate all the sterotypes! I have to break my subjects up because there were a few, but my model shoot with Shira was awesome. She was so great! I normally photograph children and try to make a fool of myself to make them laugh. It was a little refreshing to work with an adult subject who took direction. I hope you enjoy some these images. I loved doing something different and can't wait to use all the knowledge I picked up in Detroit. Thank you to Jean and Travis!

Twins! - Southlake newborn photographer

When my friend, Meredith, at Little Heartstrings Photography told me she was going to photograph twins I was excited. She asked if I wanted to help and I jumped at the chance. These little guys were so adorable and each had their own personality already. I am so glad I got a chance to help pose and photograph them. It is awesome when you are best friends with another photographer!

Cultivating Confidence-Jean's story

Let's just start out by asking who DOESN'T have insecurities? I know I do. For most of my life, my insecurities seemed to revolve around physical flaws. It then seems ironic that although I am getting older and with that comes wrinkles and a slower metabolism, somehow my insecurities have shifted away from the physical. Nowadays, I find flaws in my mothering, my "wifeing," and my job as a photographer. I'm sure that is due to my current top priorities...my kids, my husband, my photography, and my family's happiness. Don't get me wrong...I definitely don't want a sagging hiney, but I find myself questioning myself as a photographer or a parent much more than when I last got my eyebrows waxed.

I would dare say that I am more content with myself now than I ever have been. I'm not saying I have achieved some sort of amazing zen and have found the perfect balance. Far from it. But, I have realized that 1) I just flat out don't have the time to focus on my selfish desires, and 2) I WANT to focus on my top priorities...family, photography, and happiness. It is those "top priorities" that have allowed me to pull away from constantly criticizing my flaws. I love that I don't compare my physical flaws to others anymore. I love that I don't walk by a mirror and suck in my stomach and then obsess about it for the rest of the day. I love that I can sit down at a restaurant without worrying about how many calories are in my meal.

If I could give any advice...it would be to forget about comparing yourself to others....whether it be mothering, a hobby, a career, children, looks, body, etc. You are who you are and you can either dwell and be miserable, or accept and change.

Natalie in her sixth week-DFW newborn photographer

She might just be one of the cutest babies I have photographed. This little miracle was born six weeks early. She is so adored by her family. She was so laid back and just fell into poses. I almost felt badly moving her into the next pose. I am so glad her parents found me and allowed me to document this precious stage in her life!