Julie and Kelly {Allen Texas Senior Photography, McKinney Senior Photography}

Kelly is also home from college for the summer, and Karen (like Nan) wanted to get some sibling pics of her two girls before they both head off for college in the Spring.

Like Joshua and Jeremiah who had experienced previous sessions with me, Julie was right at home this time around. We did her Senior pictures late last year. It was fun to see the little sister showing the older sister the photo session ropes.

We photographed this session in old Downtown McKinney. They were having some sort of Art Fair going on, so the place was hopping with people. As I'm sure I would have been if I were on the other side of the camera lens, I think Kelly was a little uncomfortable posing with so many "bystanders" observing the action.

She did just fine though and was a great sport. I think this following picture of her is one of my favorites.

My husband and I had our anniversary pictures taken at this very door you see below (Or, should I say we took turns taking pictures of each other on our anniversary in front of this door.). I think Julie pulled it off much better though! I love this one.

Julie, Congratulations on your graduation. I hope you and Kelly enjoy your summer. It's great to know the two of you will be in the same city when you head off to college - even if you will be attending different schools. I'm sure that brings your parents some comfort knowing you'll have each other nearby while you are away from home.

Karen, I'm thinking any of these would be good picks for above your fireplace - cropped to your specifications, of course!

Aw....I wish I had a sister!

Thanks again, Karen. I really enjoyed my time with you and your girls.

Big Brother's Back in Town: Owen, Jeremiah, and Joshua {Allen Texas Senior Photography, McKinney Senior Photography}

Remember the Lamborghini session?  That was my first session with Joshua and Jeremiah. By the time we took their Senior Pics later that month, we were all getting much more comfortable around each other. This past weekend was better yet.  I felt like I was hanging out with my own three brothers.  We had great fun, and they were really getting into the shoot - even helping me out with posing ideas.  Such a creative bunch!

This time around all three amigos were on hand.  Big brother Noah is home from college, so mom wanted to get some individual shots of him to match the ones we took of Josh and Jeremiah.  And what parent doesn't want some great group shots of all of their children together? Even their Dad was along this time, and though it was my fourth full session of the day, these guys kept me energized for sure.  It was a great way to end the day!

Owen was a bit camera-shy at first  - not unlike Josh and Jeremiah on their first session with me.  Just give me a couple more shoots, Owen, and by the time you're ready for a wedding photographer, you'll be an old pro (and you'll know who to call)!

All three of these boys are off to college this Spring, and I can only imagine what a bitter-sweet transition that will be for Nan and Todd. Perhaps having these awesome portraits of their boys on their walls at home will lessen the blow while they're away.  (Be strong, Nan!)

Here are some of their favorite "Brother" pictures - and a few of mine!

By the time the texting began, I knew my time with these boys was limited.  Apparently they had better things to do with their time - something to do with a Red Wings game and a couple of twins...  

At least I was able to convince them to hang in there for a couple more shots. Good thing I did. We ended up with my favorite shot of the night!

Now that's what I'm talking about!

I just knew these three would like those Pioneer Woman actions.

Michael and Jackie

My grandmother had 40 grandchildren.  Other than my youngest brother Bryan, my cousin Michael is the last to be married.  After pursuing his doctorate degree he and his fiance Jackie are finally getting married in a couple weeks.  I'm so happy for them.

I had the pleasure of taking their engagement pictures while visiting my parent's home this past Thanksgiving.  Though they found each other a little later in life, it's really neat to see how perfect God's timing can be.  

I can't wait to go to their wedding!  From what Michael says, they're going to have a bon-fire of sorts at the reception.  Now, that will be something to see!  They are very much into all things outdoors (which is why our engagement picture setting was perfect for them).  

Jackie is having a local seamstress design her wedding dress.  It was important to her that she support her local economy.  That speaks volumes about her giving heart.  My mind is spinning trying to figure out what the dress will look like.  One thing is for certain, Jackie is going to be quite the stunning bride.  Together she and Michael will be such a handsome bride and groom.

Congratulations, you two!  I can't think of anyone more suited for you Michael!  Jackie's the best!  And, Jackie, everyone who sees these pictures just LOVES your hair!  I have to agree.  You are quite beautiful.

Enjoy!

My only regret on this last image is that I didn't see the distraction of the tree trunk growing out of Jackie's head.  Apparently, I was too busy trying to keep warm.  I included it anyway for a very special reason. Just take a look at the expression between the two of them.  The image doesn't do the moment justice.  When I witnessed Michael loving on Jackie like this (He seemed to melt into her, breathing her in.), I almost felt like I was intruding on a very private moment.  I'm glad I was there to capture it for them though.  

What I wouldn't give to have had this emotion captured between my husband and I in our engagement portraits.  I know this will be a special memory for them for years to come.  There will never be a doubt in Jackie's mind that Michael is completely enamored with her.  Now, that's a gift!

Ellie

Ellie is one of those little girls that loves to pose.  She made this photo session so much fun.  I rarely had to tell her what to do.  In fact, many times, she was the one giving me ideas.  The flower behind her ear...Ellie's idea.

I wanted to post some pictures from her session to show you two things.  1) Off center framing, and 2) The use of backgrounds to create emotion.

In these first two images you will notice that Ellie appears to be in the center of the image. Take another look and you will see that she is just slightly off-center.  This is another trick photographers use to get their images noticed.

The use of different backgrounds helps to create emotion in your images.  As in these images below, the gazebo setting evokes a tranquil, peaceful feeling.  In contrast, the urban alley backdrop brings energy, edginess, and spunk.  

When selecting locations, it is also very important to keep the colors of your backdrop in mind when assisting your client in making their wardrobe selections.  The outfit can make or break the shot - as can the backdrop.  So, plan ahead and be prepared to offer your clients a variety of suggestions in coordinating the two.  

Whether it be the urban alley or the tranquil gazebo, Ellie rocked this session!  Personally, I think she is one of the most adorable little girls ever!  

FYI:  Need help keeping your young clients happy?  The oversized sucker you see below brought out the brightest of smiles!  (Just be sure to check with Mom first.)