sarah e. mayer photography ...

2011-10-16T21:45:00.003-05:00

‎...a chilly but beautiful wedding day ended with a reception in the Red Room at Loring Pasta Bar. Very swanky :) Congratulations Eason + Robyn! More on this soon...

i'm a pretty big deal...

2011-10-03T23:09:00.003-05:00

Margo's mom was having a birthday.

Margo's dad organized a secret photoshoot so he could surprise Margo's mom with Margo photos.

Margo was good at keeping the secret.

Surprise!

what is this on my head??

2011-09-29T12:37:00.000-05:00

As much as I love hat weather (after all it means I can leave the house without doing my hair!) I don't think I'm mentally ready for it yet. So as long as I don't blow away today, I'll enjoy Fall for a little bit longer, thank you very much.

happy cameras

2011-09-12T00:19:00.001-05:00

St Mary's Orthodox Cathedral

2011-08-31T23:09:00.002-05:00

Peter + Mandy are getting married on Saturday. They had an orthodox ceremony this evening to honor the groom's side of the family. Family and friends enjoyed a candlelit service at beautiful St Mary's Orthodox Cathedral, in Minneapolis.

Mandy + Peter ♥ engaged

2011-08-31T22:47:00.000-05:00

These two met in highschool so, for engagement photos, we went back to where it all began!

One of my favorite things about this engagement session was that Mandy + Peter kept making each other laugh. That genuineness comes through in their photos.

There was a little bit of woods near the school. We went in and found this path, and some magical light. (Also, about a million mosquitos - not so magical.)

These two get married this weekend - I'm looking forward to a great day!

pieces of you...

2011-08-29T23:17:00.001-05:00

oh the humidity!

2011-07-10T21:44:00.000-05:00

These two make those hot, summer nights look goood...

Just wait til we see what they do with a December wedding!

oh beautiful for spacious skies...

2011-07-04T23:28:00.002-05:00

My July 4th consisted of amber waves of grain ... and puppies!!

Hope you and yours enjoyed the day.

imagine me and you ... and you and me

2011-06-16T23:27:00.002-05:00

2011-06-09T22:27:00.001-05:00

The Journey

One day you finally knew
what you had to do, and began,
though the voices around you
kept shouting
their bad advice–
though the whole house
began to tremble
and you felt the old tug
at your ankles.
“Mend my life!”
each voice cried.
But you didn’t stop.
You knew what you had to do,
though the wind pried
with its stiff fingers
at the very foundations,
though their melancholy
was terrible.
It was already late
enough, and a wild night,
and the road full of fallen
branches and stones.
But little by little,
as you left their voices behind,
the stars began to burn
through the sheets of clouds,
and there was a new voice
which you slowly
recognized as your own,
that kept you company
as you strode deeper and deeper
into the world,
determined to do
the only thing you could do–
determined to save
the only life you could save.

- Mary Oliver

good things ahead...

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

You would never know it was 90º and there were 500 mosquitos feasting on our lovely couple!

Oh Minnesota, we *heart* you...

Class of 2011

2011-06-04T15:14:00.001-05:00

!!** CONGRATULATIONS **!!

it's the little things...

2011-05-27T21:55:00.000-05:00

waiting for the rain...

2011-05-10T21:55:00.001-05:00

This blog is called 'the ambient light' ... it was named for nights like this...

PDX ♥

2011-04-27T20:42:00.005-05:00

I'm heading to Portland next week to visit these two lovelies... !

ps. these photos were taken almost exactly one year ago - May 2010

pps. UPDATE: The lovely Erin (pictured below) passed away on April 29, 2011. She'd been living with a terminal cancer diagnosis for almost a year and a half. I have never seen a couple be so gracious and loving and supportive, as Erin and her husband Cameron. Lady, I will miss you tremendously ... and that doesn't even begin to describe it. All my love.

Jenny + Nick ... engaged

2011-04-26T21:18:00.005-05:00

I was looking through my work from last year and realized ... I never blogged this couple! How is that possible, you ask?? Good question, I say. Jenny + Nick are getting married this summer, in Iowa, and have a local photographer all lined up there. When Jenny contacted me about doing engagement photos around their Saint Paul neighborhood I was stoked! This is (clearly!) a beautiful couple, with an easy laugh and special connection. Their wedding day photographer is going to have so much fun :)

Jenny + Nick, I had SUCH a delightful afternoon with you two ... truly a pleasure!

Thank you for sharing your story, and your warm smiles.

♥ ...happy marriage... ♥

Kyle + Keppen ♥

2011-04-20T16:38:00.005-05:00

Maybe I was inspired by the snow this morning ... I don't know ... here (finally) are images from Kyle + Keppen's January wedding. They planned a winter wedding, they were up for some outdoor photos. But then the day rolled around with a high temperature of really-really-stinking-cold. Although we are all hearty Minnesotans (you betcha) we opted to stay indoors. Thankfully the Hotel Sofitel in Bloomington, MN has artsy decor and ample window light. I would also like to say thank you to my SB-800 flash. As Tim Gunn says "Make it work!"

I love it when couples send me a wedding invitation - it gives me a feel for what their day will be like. It doesn't always happen because we arrange so many things verbally. So I love when I can include this aspect of the wedding day, in the photography.

See what I said about the decor?? And yes, loving the shoes...

This is different editing than what you typically see with my work. But I was inspired by my recently acquired NIK editing software, and Keppen's birdcage veil. I get such a retro-glam feel from this image, edited this way! It makes me want to grab a roll of 35mm film for my camera.

Mini-pinecones!

Another example of the NIK editing software to emulate the look of film. I *heart* it.

I hope my clients do too!

You guys are movie stars. Glamorous!

Kyle + Keppen - what a pleasure being with you as you enjoyed your wedding day!!

I will say enjoy the Spring weather ... if it ever decides to arrive. Oh hey, the sun just popped out.

sneak peek...

2011-04-18T20:06:00.002-05:00

found...

2011-04-14T22:07:00.000-05:00

someone loves her

spring forward.

2011-03-12T14:16:00.001-06:00

Poladroid ... making happy pictures happier.

happy little clouds

2011-03-07T20:44:00.003-06:00

A recent conversation with a friend reminded me of this charming man:

I have such vivid memories of watching him on PBS when I was little! Even today, I feel myself relaxing as I listen to his voice and watch the "happy clouds" appear on his canvas... :)

2011-01-30T21:24:00.000-06:00

Cold is the water
It freezes your already cold mind
Already cold, cold mind
And death is at your doorstep
And it will steal your innocence
But it will not steal your substance

But you are not alone in this
And you are not alone in this
As brothers we will stand and we'll hold your hand
Hold your hand...

-Mumford & Sons

sneak peek...

2011-01-29T16:24:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year ♥

2011-01-01T15:04:00.003-06:00

walking in a winter wonderland...

2010-12-29T19:45:00.005-06:00

November 27

16 degrees

3 girls under five

20 minute photoshoot

This is how a Minnesota family gets things done... !!

Seriously, this is THE fastest portrait session I have done, to date! A number of factors played in to making this a success: the family was prepared and organized when I arrived. Mom and Dad were *so positive* and made this a lot of fun for their girls (and me)! They laughed with each other and were the cheerleaders the girls needed. And there was candy when we were done. Candy makes everything better :)

I first met the Tycast family at this summer wedding, where Mom was matron of honor & the girls decorated the aisle with flowers before the bride walked down.

It was great to work with them again!

Tycast Family - I trust you enjoyed your holidays!

Continued love and laughter in 2011 ♥

let it snow* let it snow* let it snow*

2010-12-16T19:04:00.002-06:00

Well blogging world, if you are anywhere in MN, the amount of snow is not news to you. I just wanted to share a little video from the snowstorm last weekend. I got snowed in at my sister's place for a few days and her roommates were *awesome* and shoveled out my car, while I stayed inside and cozy :)

Rebekah + Justin ♥

2010-12-07T16:46:00.002-06:00

Rebekah and Justin were married on a brilliantly chilly day in October, at Rush Creek Golf Club. I encountered a *nervous* bride when I arrived that day, but after Rebekah and Justin saw each other, Rebekah's nerves eased into smiles and laughter.

Sunshine kept the goosebumps (mostly) away as we enjoyed the last of Fall's colors ...

...and some *lovley* window light indoors when it was time to warm up.

This wedding party knew how to bring it! And talk about being caught up in the love and laughter...

...Rebekah + Justin, thank you for having me be part of your day!

Many happy years and happy golf games to come :)

Shawn + Leslie ♥

2010-11-30T19:51:00.006-06:00

Well. It is *much* colder than the last time I blogged!

But I've been enjoying an afternoon that includes hot chocolate, fresh snow outside the window, and staying inside catching up on blogs :)

Shawn + Leslie were married in September at the Earle Brown Heritage Center. Leslie looked stunning in her dress from the Wedding Shoppe...

Shawn + Leslie opted to see each other before the ceremony. That's always a special moment, giving the bride and groom time to themselves and allowing time for pictures before getting caught up in the friends and family who come to celebrate this day with you!

Thanks to Maple Grove Floral for this bouquet that captured the fall colors beautifully.

Ah, wedding veils - I love 'em! Ladies, when else in your life are you going to wear one?

Also, the tails on Shawn's tux coat - a classy touch!

Looking good kids... !

The sun put in an appearance for our outdoor ceremony.

And what ceremony is complete without a bagpiper??! The guy was awesome!

Elegant programs courtesy of New Leaf Letterpress.

...and a kiss makes it official!

As we headed into the reception, I was excited to see The Traveling Photobooth there!

Those guys are awesome and it's always a fun addition to a wedding reception.

The groom is a connoisseur of beers so it was appropriate that the couple had customized pub glasses for their guests :) There was also a delicious cake provided by Buttercream.

It was a lovely day, from getting ready to the first dance. I will leave you with some parting shots.

Shawn + Leslie, stay snuggled up and warm this winter!

Thank you for having me participate in your wedding day ♥

Clair + Eduardo ♥

2010-10-16T21:30:00.007-05:00

*Genuine*

*Love*

*Laughter!*

These are the words that came to mind over and over as I photographed Clair + Eduardo's wedding in August.

A ceremony at Thomas Lowry Park in Minneapolis was followed by a reception at Clubhouse Jager. Wine and Stella flowed as live music and laughter floated on the warm summer evening air.

Clair + Eduardo, I trust you are settling into your new life in Portland.

Mahalo ♥

sneak peek ...

2010-10-06T20:27:00.001-05:00

nyc on the brain tonight...

2010-09-11T23:07:00.001-05:00

Before I pursued photography as a career, I got a degree in elementary education. I went to a small college in Ohio that happened to have an exchange program with an elementary school in Manhattan. New York. So for my student teaching, I packed up and headed off to the Big Apple for 3 1/2 months. It was truly a life changing experience... living in Harlem, using the train or my feet for transportation, the sights, the smells, the sounds - all those car horns you hear on tv shows about NYC - not an exaggeration! ... that was September of 2000. September of 2001 found me back in Minneapolis, working at a photolab located in the downtown skyway system (see - photography, not elementary school teacher). It was a quiet morning, we were not yet officially open for business. I was sleeving negatives (yes, back when we shot film) when the lady from the pizza place across the hall came and told us about the first plane hitting the Tower. We flipped on a tiny tv and continued our pre-opening routine. When the second plane hit, it still didn't occur to me to think more of this than a tragic accident until a co-worker said the words "terrorist attack." It was a quiet day in downtown Minneapolis. I don't remember if it was later that day, or the next until I was able to get ahold of friends in NYC. All the teachers I'd gotten to know a year earlier were fine - their school is on the north end of Manhattan. But I craved detail about what it was like there - what was that noisy, bustling city was like now. Surreal.

These pictures are from a trip to NYC in September 2002 (still shooting film) - for my birthday. We spent quite a bit of time at the site of the Twin Towers. We took the ferry to Ellis Island, but the Statue of Liberty was still closed to tourists. The city was noisy and bustling, like usual. Just with a big hole in the middle.

sneak peek...

2010-09-10T19:26:00.001-05:00

p.s. Wedding veils make my heart happy...

Shawn + Jane ♥

2010-09-08T20:37:00.003-05:00

Shawn & Jane got married at Quadna Mountain Resort, on a beautiful *warm* summer day!

When Jane told me her family has been vacationing at this resort for 35 years, I had visions of watermelon and dance lessons with Patrick Swayze ;)

This marriage brings together a new family (well it always does...)

It makes my heart happy to see the excitement!

I love the blue shoes matching mom's hair flower...

...beauty in a quiet moment...taking in the day...

Jane + Shawn, thank you for choosing me to be part of your wedding day.

Many happy years to you!

anticipation...

2010-08-27T22:50:00.002-05:00

It's State Fair Time!!! Mmm ... fried cheese curds, I can taste you now!

Leah + Andy ♥

2010-08-18T21:12:00.004-05:00

Leah + Andy were married at Bluefin Bay, in a sunny outdoor ceremony at Tofte Cove, overlooking Lake Superior.

... new Converse all around!

These two found ways to put their unique touch on so many aspects of the day.

Leah found cufflinks made of old typewriter keys ... perfect for the groom to wear their initials.

Leah, you are beautiful...

There is an easy, genuineness about these two...

I love the yellow!

By the way - Andy's mom made that bow tie. And the corresponding ties the groomsmen wore. Awesome.

The reception tables were decorated with local greenery. Places were noted with fun, northwoods animals.

Instead of a guestbook, friends jotted notes and well wishes on postcards collected from a variety of locations.

The bride's dad made mustaches and 'speech bubbles' to be used at this makeshift photo booth. The speech bubbles were painted with chalkboard paint so guests could write new messages throughout the evening. Fun!

Leah + Andy, I *thoroughly* enjoyed being part of your day.

Continued happy years and happy travels to you - together!

after the storm...

2010-08-11T21:33:00.005-05:00

"All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well."
-Julian of Norwich

"...introduce people with thoughtful details..."

2010-08-04T15:26:00.001-05:00

DJ + Flor ♥

2010-07-22T22:36:00.004-05:00

* Congratulations, DJ + Flor *

The wedding day dawned ... gray and rainy. Not exactly what we had on the agenda.

But since the day was about *celebrating* with family and friends,

and the beginning of a *marriage* ...

everyone rolled with it and it was a beautiful day!

Flor's veil was made by her mother - stunning detail.

The gorgeous flowers were arranged by DJ's mom. Wow - can we say talented families!

Flor, you are a knockout beauty! What a good looking couple :)

I'm excited to see what the future holds for you two...

The day continued with laughter and toasts,

kisses and cake,

and dancing into the night ... ♥

DJ + Flor, it was a privilege being part of your day!

warm up for the wedding day ... !

2010-07-13T21:37:00.002-05:00

See you two at the end of the month!

i got mail ...

2010-07-13T10:54:00.001-05:00

Real mail is one of my FAVORITE things in the whole world! (cue Julie Andrews) And bonus points when it's in 3-D ...

High Tea

2010-07-02T23:07:00.001-05:00

A few weekends ago, I had the privilege of attending a bridal shower for my friend Rachel. The theme was a 'high tea.' Each woman brought her own tea cup. The menu featured *delicious* homemade scones, finger food, and scrumptious desserts. Tabitha, you are absolutely the hostess with mostess!! It was the perfect afternoon for sitting outside, recounting stories, laughing, and enjoying freshly brewed tea.

Rachel, you are *surrounded* by intelligent, funny, beautiful women who love you.

I'd say that means you're pretty fabulous to know ... :)

At the end of the day we gifted our tea cups to Rachel.

Each one had special thought behind it.

Rachel ... *enjoy* your wedding day!

Happy marriage ♥

Matthew + Jessica ♥

2010-06-27T21:58:00.008-05:00

A few weeks ago, I photographed Matthew + Jessica's wedding. Matt and Jess were friends and co-workers long before a romantic relationship developed. Looks like they transitioned well! It was an overcast day but that's ideal for photos. Raindrops held off until we were safely on the reception boat at the end of the evening.

The wedding party got ready at the Nicollet Island Inn. These *awesome* shots of the guys getting ready were taken by my assistant, John Fontana. I love the camaraderie, and the classic feel in these images...

...ready to go see his bride!

I was with Jessica while she got ready.

Mom helped fasten on a necklace that had belonged to Jessica's great-grandmother.
Jess' mom also wore this necklace on her wedding day.
The bride's dress is from Flutter Boutique, in Uptown.

Matt and Jess decided to see each other before the ceremony.

As you can tell, that's a very special moment.

I love it when brides and grooms see each other beforehand.

Sometimes it's the only quiet moment they have together, during their exciting day!

It also lends to the day running smoothly. Everyone has good intentions of taking time for photos ... but once friends and family have arrived,

it's nice to just get caught up in the celebration!

I love the colors and textures we had to work with!

Jessica, you are truly stunning!

...fun with the wedding party...

...more happy couple...

...special family moments...

The ceremony was held at Boom Island Park, in Minneapolis, then we boarded a boat for a reception cruise down the Mississippi. Each table at the reception had M&M's with tiny photos of Matt&Jess on them... love it :) This '3 hour tour' provided family and friends with time to chat and mingle, deliver toasts, check out the Minneapolis skyline through some sun and some raindrops, dance a bit, and enjoy delicious cheesecake!

A great evening, and even greater beginning to many years of happy marriage ... ♥

Matthew + Jessica,

thank you for choosing me to be part of your day.

(once again, thanks to my assistant John for this fun shot of us departing!)

preggo...

2010-06-21T01:41:00.001-05:00

My friend Kristina and I attended a bridal shower this weekend.

Kristina is within one week of her due date (!) so we had to get some pregnant tummy pictures :)

Kristina's necklace says "time flies" ...

Whether it will feel like that this week - or not - the phrase struck me as so appropriate

for this phase of her life...

Kristina, I can't wait to meet this little one! You and Sam will be amazing parents.

This child is lucky to be coming in to your home ♥

just keep going...

2010-06-14T18:00:00.005-05:00

God speaks to each of us as he makes us,

then walks with us silently out of the night.

These are the words we dimly hear:

You, sent out beyond your recall,
go to the limits of your longing.
Embody me.

Flare up like flame
and make big shadows I can move in.

Let everything happen to you: beauty and terror.
Just keep going. No feeling is final.

Don’t let yourself lose me.

Nearby is the country they call life.
You will know it by its seriousness.

Give me your hand.

- Rainer Maria Rilke

sneak peak...

2010-06-07T23:21:00.001-05:00

A sneak peek from Saturday's wedding!

Congratulations DJ + Flor ♥

You guys were rockstars, for going with the flow and enjoying your day...

sneak peak...

2010-06-04T21:19:00.001-05:00

A sneak peek from last Sunday's wedding.

My first of the season - it felt great to be 'back' ... !

I LOVE DOING THIS.

The overcast day provided beautifully soft light.

Jess + Matt provided the l♥ve and good looks ... :)

summertime...

2010-05-31T20:45:00.003-05:00

...and the living is easy

morning coffee...

2010-05-06T00:45:00.001-05:00

out & about...

2010-05-04T10:54:00.001-05:00

.Portland.

west coast style

2010-05-02T14:06:00.002-05:00

On Thursday, I arrived in Portland OR! As we began our descent, the plane navigated around a dark gray cloud; you could see rain falling beneath it. We touched down to sunshine and raindrops.

I'm visiting my friends Erin + Cameron. Erin is a dear, dear friend from photography school. We survived many a shoot (and re-shoot!) together ... long hours listening to Lauryn Hill and contemplating the subtler points of lighting ratios, patterns, grids, snoots, reflectors, should I tilt then shift? or shift then tilt? ... Erin is a San Diego girl originally. She's been to Minneapolis twice, to visit me. Both times have been during the *coldest* week of the winter; we need to work on that. Erin + Cameron met in Santa Barbara and then Cameron whisked her away and married her in his hometown of Portland, last summer.

Do you recognize that rock?!? Yes, that rock. It's famously featured in the movie Goonies. On Friday, we drove through the Ecola Forest to see the coast. And this rock. We did not find any treasure. We did, however, find some elk.

I've seen the Pacific ocean twice, in the last two months. Pretty lucky, for a midwest girl. If only I could bottle that sight/sound/smell/feeling up and take it home with me. Or just move to Portland, as Erin + Cameron would suggest ;)

love is in bloom ... ♥

2010-04-21T00:12:00.005-05:00

a grand day

2010-04-10T18:20:00.005-05:00

I ate brunch at a new (to me) restaurant - Grand Cafe. It's within walking distance to my apartment. Why have I never been here before??

... details to delight in, beautiful window light, delicious food ...

On a day that brings change, it was comforting to be with people who are constant and who make me smile.

An afternoon cat-nap helped too...

one day in LA....

2010-03-28T10:56:00.003-05:00

A few weeks ago, I had the *random* opportunity to go to California for two days.

Umm... yes!

... the color and texture of the city...

... then the space and relaxation of the beach ...

This trip was truly a gift - a chance to get out of the SNOW, to see California friends,

to stand with my feet in the ocean and b r e a t h e ...

2010-03-22T12:31:00.001-05:00

And there will come a time, you'll see, with no more tears.
And love will not break your heart, but dismiss your fears.
Get over your hill and see what you find there...

- Mumford & Sons "After the Storm"

say hello to Capital Sons...

2010-03-10T23:55:00.008-06:00

Had fun doing headshots for Minneapolis-based band, Capital Sons! Gotta love me some window light. Want to know what Capital Sons sound like? Head over to their website to download FREE songs! Yes, free. Woot. And go see them live sometime...

Here are the boys!

... on lead vocals, Karl ...

... on guitar, Cy...

... on drums, Jesse ...

... welcoming newest member Joseph (hi joseph!), on guitar ...

... and last but certainly not least,

holding things down on bass, Keefe (aka-Shmuli)...

west coast...

2010-03-01T13:30:00.002-06:00

...here i come!

time

2010-02-28T09:19:00.002-06:00

♥ ... Happy 89th Birthday, to my Grandma ... ♥

Still beautiful.

valentine's

2010-02-13T15:27:00.004-06:00

Today, I would to like to share with you a photo of my parents. This summer, they will be married for 36 years. Good job, Mom & Dad! This may be my favorite photo of them ... they look so relaxed and happy and carefree (pre-kids, of course ;)

Many happy years, and happy photos, to you... ♥

Prints for Haiti

2010-02-10T08:44:00.000-06:00

Check it out - images from some amazing photographers. Prints handled through Specialty Color Services in Santa Barbara. They are suggesting $100 per image but you can pick one up for as low as $30 because they want everyone to be able to contribute to relief efforts in Haiti.

(little) house on the prairie

2010-02-02T23:12:00.003-06:00

Spent the weekend with dear, longtime friends ... who have produced beautiful daughters ... who are on their way to growing up to be dear, longtime friends ... ♥

(p.s. Natalie - your house is not little, it just makes a better title that way ;)

crafty goodness...

2010-01-27T01:32:00.003-06:00

*SURPRISE*
I opened an email this morning (an email that goes out to thousands of people across the country) and said "Hey, I recognize those photos" ... ! ☺ A family portrait session done at Como Zoo Conservatory, in Saint Paul MN.

If you have never been to an Archiver's store before, you need to check it out! For reals. Zig Writers, I *heart* you.

Nick + Jenna ♥

2010-01-18T11:53:00.010-06:00

Back in November, I stocked up on Harry Potter books-on-tape from the library, got in my car, and headed to Oshkosh, WI. Nick & Jenna were getting married! I was really looking forward to seeing this wedding come together. Jenna has a great eye for design (she's an architect) and personally designed and assembled many of the details surrounding this day. They wanted a classic, vintage feel to their day so they scoured antique shops, picking up old postcards they then scanned & turned in to pieces of the invitation.

The wedding day began at the salon with the girls...

Meanwhile, the guys were getting ready back at the church...

Enjoying some details. Rings were carried down the aisle in a beautiful box, hand-made by the groom.

Grabbing a moment to read a note from the man who is about to be her husband...

Everything cooperated - we are doing outdoor photos, at the end of November, in Wisconsin! That beautiful sunset light is icing on the cake.

And speaking of cake... ! The reception was at Becket's Atrium. Dancing is a big part of what brought Nick & Jenna together so it was a main theme at the reception, with each guest table being named after a dance move. Love it!

How apropos to find this location in downtown Oshkosh...

I couldn't get enough of this blue door...! Have I mentioned I love saturated color?

A happy wedding party, off to dance the night away! Nick and Jenna - *thank you* for choosing me to be part of your wedding day. I had a blast ☺

MPLS Photo Center ...

2010-01-08T15:34:00.002-06:00

A few months ago, the MPLS Photo Center put out a call for entries for a portrait contest. People are my thing so I thought, "Hey, why not?" I entered. And got in! Out of over 1200 images, David Little - curator at Minneapolis Institute of Arts - whittled things down to 84 pieces that are being shown this month at the MPLS photo center. I feel pretty darn good about being included ☺ The exhibit is free to drop in and check out, anytime this month! Details and directions at the website. Opening reception tonight, from 6-9pm. Yum.

Minnesota Public Radio (which I love, and am a member of) did a nice little write-up of the event, here.

By the way, the portrait is of my sister - Rachel, and her boyfriend - Joel ... both artists in their own right. I did this piece as an assignment, when I was in photography school. I went to school in Santa Barbara, CA - which everyone thinks is paradise, and is to an extent - but you also get bored. That sounds ludicrous, but I've talked with enough other transplants to know I'm not the only one who felt that way. The school assignment was to photograph a couple, and I was craving something other than beach and ocean and Uggs. This assignment coincided with a weekend home to Minneapolis for my Grandpa's 80th birthday and I can't tell you how *happy* my photographic soul was. Rachel and Joel chose their outfits. The setting is the house my sister was living in at the time. Hooray for color that saturates my eyeballs!

Christmas time is here...

2009-12-14T22:34:00.002-06:00

These are the sites of Christmas, around my house. It's my favorite FAVORITE holiday. This is the first year I've had a *real* tree in my house (apartment). When I moved out of my parents' home, my mom presented me with a bag full of my Christmas ornaments. She made an ornament for my sister and me every year. My mom is *not* a pack-rat and was happy to see these go. I've contributed some of my own handiwork over the years. For example: Santa ... there, in the middle with the green shirt (didn't you recognize him?) ... I made him in kindergarten :) The *real* tree was a surprise gift. It smells delicious. Every morning when I water him, I take a big whiff. Aah, Christmas...

82 days, 9 hours, 43 minutes...

2009-12-09T09:10:00.005-06:00

Ok, ok ... I don't really know the hours and minutes. But Kristina and Samuel got married on a beautiful day in September, after an 82 day engagement! People said it couldn't be done. But then *other* people - family and friends armed with love and excitement for this newly engaged couple - said it absolutely could be done! And got to work.

I've been friends with Kristina for years, so I was invited to Cambridge a day early to participate in the preparations. Truly a privilege to watch *everybody* pitch in to make this wedding happen. The groom's dinner involved homemade (!) Greek food and handmade Swedish hearts, to honor Kristina's heritage. We packed the screened-in porch at Samuel's parents' home to share laughter and stories in the warm evening. Not crowded ... cozy. Family. Family made up of friends from California to Canada.

The wedding morning arrived. The bride's family home would be the setting. The groom and groomsmen could be seen lining up chairs for the ceremony. The bride was overseeing details at the reception tent, and making sure parking rows would be straight. Everywhere you looked there was a personal touch. The table holding the guest book was handmade by an aunt. Signs were hand-cut and hand-lettered. Flowers came from neighbors' gardens, and bouquets were assembled by an aunt, listening and dancing to Michael Jackson on her ipod.

Then it was time to get dressed. Kristina and her sisters got ready in their mother's bedroom. The wedding party would consist entirely of siblings. This was made extra special by the fact that Kristina's parents had just brought two girls home from the Philippines. Kristina had two new sisters. This adoption had been months in the making ... longer than Kristina and Sam's engagement! ... and the timing was perfect. Kristina and Samuel both feel strongly about adoption, so much so they featured information about the Zoe Foundation at their reception.

An uncle shared his car, to provide a classy get-away at the end of the night. And a fun spot to take photos!

Friends checked the final table arrangements while the groomsmen transferred chairs from the ceremony to the reception tent. In lieu of a cake, family & friends volunteered to make bars ... 5 of the bride's favorite recipes! The sun set and everyone - from grandma to the youngest nephew - danced into the night ...

2009-11-24T22:01:00.006-06:00

more on this Oshkosh wedding, in a few weeks... ♥

Ethan ... Class of 2010

2009-11-02T10:11:00.002-06:00

Ah, looking back to when it was warm...

...Ethan, have a great senior year! Hope Grandma found a photo she liked :)

You Are Invited...

2009-10-20T18:01:00.006-05:00

...the countdown begins!

Amy ... Class of 2010

2009-10-17T19:40:00.001-05:00

We took advantage of one of the last days before the snow flew (!) to shoot Amy's senior portraits. Once again, downtown Anoka provided some great nooks and crannies, and unexpected pops of color. I love how this green doorway made Amy's blue eyes stand out. Lovely!

Looks like a beautiful Fall day, without a care in the world – right??

You would never guess it was 45 degrees and Amy had sprained her ankle in a volleyball tournament the night before! All you see is that bright smile... :)

Working some beautiful late-afternoon light...

Amy, I hope the ankle is recovering swiftly. I had fun at our photo shoot! Your positive attitude made the day. Enjoy your senior year and good luck as you make decisions for the things to come ... !

Shawn + Leslie... engaged

2009-10-17T01:29:00.008-05:00

Getting warmed up ... !

...now there's a family photo... :)

...Penelope and Hercules were great models, all day long!

We enjoyed some beautiful Fall color in Duluth...

...met another member of the family...

Shawn & Leslie, I *enjoyed* spending the day with you and I'm looking forward to doing it again at your wedding next year....

because it makes me happy...

2009-10-14T09:57:00.004-05:00

Jake ... Class of 2010

2009-10-07T23:50:00.005-05:00

Jake, you told me you've always had a tough time getting good yearbook photos. How is that possible?? Good luck and many memories this senior year...

in between the raindrops ...

2009-09-28T17:24:00.006-05:00

...there was sunshine and smiling pugs! More with these guys in a few weeks...

Tommy ... Class of 2010

2009-09-24T22:55:00.003-05:00

Some unique corners ...

... a loyal dog ...

... supportive family who coerce encourage you to climb off the beaten path :)

... and a shiny red Jeep ...

What more does a man need??

Enjoy your senior year and the memories it brings!

the wedding day arrives...

2009-09-21T21:49:00.004-05:00

... more on this one in a few weeks!

the Faces of Family ...

2009-09-20T14:34:00.005-05:00

grandpa's house

2009-09-17T23:55:00.003-05:00

Bethany ... Class of 2010

2009-09-06T22:22:00.008-05:00

Look at this beautiful lady! She begins her senior year of high school on Tuesday. Last month we had a great photo session in Minneapolis – the Guthrie Theater and Mill City Museum provided a variety of photo settings. Bethany provided the outstanding smile...

... maybe my favorite photo from our session! ...

... we had fun with the mirrors and art around Guthrie Theater ... :)

Bethany, you rocked out this photo session!

Have fun with soccer this fall.

Good luck and many memories through your senior year...

Kristina + Samuel ... engaged

2009-09-05T01:30:00.009-05:00

the wedding of Mark + Adel

2009-08-17T17:21:00.020-05:00

May 2009 … Theodore Wirth Park … Mark + Adel.

I couldn't have asked for more perfect weather or a more genuinely lovely couple to photograph.

These are the days that remind us why we live in Minnesota … :)

A few shots of Adel getting ready, with help from her ladies.

She looked happy and relaxed and beautiful like that all day long!

… ready to enjoy her day …

… a nice moment with Dad …

I love parasols! Such a classic, romantic look …

… Mark's first glimpse of Adel that day was when she walked down the aisle. I love the genuine *happiness* on his face …

After the ceremony, we explored more of Theodore Wirth Park.

These two were enthusiastic about trekking off the beaten path to get our shot … !

… love the bare feet! Even more than that, love that Adel is *beaming* because she is looking at Mark.

… talk about a radiant bride …

… stolen kisses underneath the parasol …

… and a quiet moment for the couple before heading off to join friends and family at the reception. Mark + Adel, I thoroughly enjoyed being part of your day …

Tim + Dana

2009-08-16T12:54:00.010-05:00

Tim has been a dear friend of mine since junior high (!) so I was so happy to be part of celebrating his marriage to Dana. Last February, I met Tim & Dana at the Walker Art Center ... we were able to get great engagement photos without twelve layers of clothes on! After that we did brave the elements and it was worth it ... great sunset light combined with fun in the snow for some very sweet shots ...

In May, I traveled to Dana's hometown of Indianapolis, IN for the wedding ceremony. I was there for the rehearsal and got to join the girls at Transformations Salon on the wedding morning. It is a privilege to spend this extra time with the wedding party as I get to hear personal stories, and see the bonds between friends and family. The wedding day was beautiful! Many happy years to come for this couple...

Nick + Jenna

2009-08-14T19:39:00.023-05:00

We are jumping in the time machine, back to this spring and Nick + Jenna's engagement shoot. Nick and Jenna will be married this November in Neenah, WI...

Jenna is an architect, has a cool eye for design, and had some great ideas about where to shoot. We started around Mill City Museum. This image turned into funky save-the-date cards...

...we laughed a lot during the day...

Nick handmade this box to for Jenna's vintage-inspired ring!

...the happy couple got some good smooching in...

This may be my favorite shot of the day ... I love the colors ... and the dip!

Nick and Jenna danced their way around Minneapolis ... can't wait for the wedding :)

a photo a day...

2009-07-18T12:26:00.005-05:00

portland. pirates. rain. dancing. jumping. mac & cheese. limeade. friends. love. *photobooths*