It was the year 2000, and I had saved up enough birthday money and other random cash to buy a “clicky” camera. My mom took me to the electronics department at Target, and I forked over my money to buy my first SLR. It’s crazy to think that was 18 years ago! I spent the majority of my high school years photographing my friends and youth retreats and play practices, and I even started to take on a tiny amount of client work. But it wasn’t until 2006 when I actually opened up shop and officially started my business.

As I was getting my sea legs, my style began to bloom right here on this gravel driveway, shooting my little sister and cousins as they played. I've come a long way since then with my abilities, but its nice to know some things - like the timelessness of film, this picturesque nature of the farm, and the connection between sibling - don't change.

These are from Oliver’s 18 month session. His suspenders wouldn't stay up. I had already given him a bath, but he was so dusty he'd need another. We were all sweating and swatting mosquitoes. But to have a permanent record of the subtle little way Oliver puckers out his bottom lip slightly when he wants to give a kiss makes it all worth it. This was only two months ago, and he's already stopped doing that sweet little gesture.

Is your baby growing before your eyes? Take a look at my family portrait experience. I can stop time for you.