Imagine Boutique: Website Launch!

After developing some fabulously mad love for photographing seniors and considering my crush on an ever-changing good outfit, I was thrilled when Imagine Boutique contacted me about photographing for their store. I'm about as girly girl as they come, so a day with a group of girls, makeup, hair products, endless outfits, and tons of giggles was pretty much the bees knees. You may recognize the models, they are two of my seniors from this past year, Callie and Renee, who won Imagine's model search. Double score. If you missed their senior sessions, you can see them here and here.

I've mentioned before about how I truly end up with an adoring heart for my senior girls, and these girls were no exception. They both left me in awe this past year, not only with their gorg modeling abilities, but with their gentle hearts, open minds, and styles all their own.

Over the next few blog posts this week and next, I'll be sharing with you snippets from our giant photo shoot we had for Imagine's website launch! We spent the day roaming all over some good ole' country land--greenery for days, ponds, horses, dirt roads, ah. Here's a peek at some of our fun from that day.

The owner of Imagine, Meg, has such an eye for perfectly dainty pieces. One of my personal favorites of her eye for fashion is the jewelry she carries in the store--I can almost never go in the shop without leaving with a little dainty gem. 

Oh, and because we just love you guys so much, Imagine is offering a coupon code exclusively for YOU! From now until JULY 17th, all of my ever-fabulous readers can receive 15% off of your online order with the code "kali15". So scoot right on over to the site if you're on the lookout for some new fancy summer pieces and see what they have in store! And for even more up-to-date posts, follow them @shopimagine on Instagram.

Oh, and stay tuned for Callie and Renee with the horses next week. (:

Summer Travel Dates

Tell your momma, tell your grandma, tell all of your friends! I'll be traveling quite a bit this summer and have a few extra days in certain locations for bookings. I'd love love love to get to know you and document a special part of your life if you're in any of these areas during my stay. You can read some FAQs about my sessions, here. And if you'd like to proceed with booking or get more info, please don't hesitate to send some love my way, here!

I'm looking forward to making and documenting new friends! Happy Monday!

Featured: Senior Style Guide

Callie's session is featured on Senior Style Guide today and I'm so excited to share with you! Hop on over to their blog and check her out, here!

So many lovely weddings and sessions coming at you soon. I've been busy like a bee with some gorg Spring sessions. Happy Wednesday, friends!

Macey {Senior 2014}

Meet Macey. She's a timid personality that came out with her soft, sweet features through my camera. Oh, and maybe I'm just crazy with my celebrity look-alike brain now, but I think she looks strikingly similar to Anne Hathaway. But hey, if I looked like Anne Hathaway, I'd let someone tell me that all day long. (:

Since it's just a few days before Easter, Macey's soft lavendar clothing choice for her field shots were quite appropriate to post, I felt. Pastels mixed with pretty light make for such perfect, ethereal photographs.

She had three outfits, two of which I've highlighted in this post. I really loved her black dress with a heart cutout in the back, also. And our super ninja nook we found in a very public place. You can't even tell. (:

Macey, you are just stunning. I wish you nothing but the best of luck! Happy Easter, my friends!

Emma {Senior 2014}

I love people. That's a broad statement, I know. But I just love the intricacies of different personalities, and different styles, and just what makes a person who they are. Maybe this is why I just have this urge to be friends with almost everyone I meet. I'd like to think it's a good quality, but sometimes I'm not sure! (:

I especially love when we draw the personality of each of my seniors out in a session. Some are timid, some are straight model with their serious face (which I look upon their serious abilities enviously), and some are like me and giggles are the most natural. That's Emma. Emma's personality can light up a room. Her smile and modestly sweet persona just draws you in and makes you wanna give her a big bear hug.

Emma had three outfits for her session, but only two are pictured in this post. The other is for the online store of her parents' company, Louisiana Sportsman. If you're from Louisiana, chances are you've seen their stuff. But if not, you can check out some of their nifty apparel here. 

See what I mean? That smile just makes you SO HAPPY. Emma wanted to take advantage of the gorgeous field of yellow flowers right next to us that just screamed Spring. So, we had more fun with her surplus of smiles in that direction. (:

Emma, you are a beautiful little light. Never lose that little light and big smile. Thank you for the opportunity to photograph you. I know you will be great next year with your big move!

Featured: Senior Style Guide

I can't fully explain the fulfillment I get from the experience of photographing seniors, but I'll tell you that there's a feeling in my bones that reminds me that it's right where I'm supposed to be. From the natural beauty these girls have, to the power and potential they possess at their fingertips, my mind is just blown every time I get the pleasure of going through the photography process with them. As Renee and I corresponded back and forth about our plan of action for her photographs, a little girl chit chat, and her ambition to pursue cosmetology, I just fell in love with her sweet personality and humble ambition. This girl has some talent and a giant heart, and I personally feel like that combination in a person is a beautiful, beautiful thing.

Working with her was such a great experience, and I'm SO stoked to share with you that Renee's session is featured on Senior Style Guide today! Senior Style Guide is a fabulous Senior magazine and blog publication, with some rockin' ideas and leading styles in the senior photography industry. You can see the full feature of Renee's session on SSG, here.

Happy, happy Monday my friends!

Madison {Senior 2014}

I have had an influx of the most bubbly, big ol' smiln' senior girls lately and I love it. If you know me personally, you know I'm a pretty bubbly person. So, when I'm surrounded by other bubblies, it's just such a bright experience. Madison was one of my most recent senior girls who just captured my heart with her big smile and even bigger heart. Madison, her mom, her sister, and I tra-la-la'd through the streets just laughing away, finding the most perfect nooks and crannies. I love downtown streets, there are so many hidden treasures among them.

The feel of Spring color was all around for Madison's session--er, except for the actual feeling, which was unusually chilly for it being almost April in Louisiana. But we slipped in this college town's favorite little coffee shop, grabbed some hot tea and hot chocolate, and warmed up a little before continuing our venture to make it look as if it was 70 degrees and blue skies. We talked and laughed so much though, that I'm not sure we noticed the chill that much.

I'm just in love with the soft colors and overall feel we achieved from this look. Truth is, field shots are usually my favorite, but these were my favorites from Madison's sesh. I feel editorial, soft, and perfect emotion when I look at them.

Then, we found another nook. Nooks are fun--like little, sneaky adventures. (:

We ended, as you know by now how, next to a field of course, and well, just look. It's April and that means blooms are everywhere. We found a field that was completely covered in yellow flowers. The bokeh from my lens made it look like the perfect soft yellow blur paired with Madison's golden locks and pale yellow shirt. Oh, and her smile. (: Madison, you are such a bright light. I left your session all smiles from that sweet, bubbly personality you possess. Never let anyone dull that sparkle of yours baby cakes, it's a beautiful thing.

And Happy Thursday, my friends! It's almost the freakin' weekend. We have some of our best friends coming stay with us AND doing an early birthday celebration for P. I hope yours is just as lovely.

Bailey {Senior 2014}

It's Friday and senior season, so naturally, I thought ending the week with another one of my classy and sassy seniors was the way to go. This time, with Miss Bailey and her timid and ever-so-sweet personality. Bailey's mom found me from the Blanchard family I photographed just before Christmas, and if you haven't seen their session, you can hop on over and view it here. Their little family was just picture perfect. Just like Bailey.

She chose to keep her session classic with all whites and creams, which is pretty much always a great option in my book. She jazzed it up slightly with some gold accessories and a floppy hat at the end, but nothing crazy--which I'm always ok with. Classic, you see, never goes out of style. (:

The deep colors around her seemed to be extra saturated and boldly gorgeous in the midst of that overcast day. I really, really love the deep colors and the way it brought out Bailey's best features.

This one below gives me a little Banana Republic feel, and I love it.  Bailey, thank you so much for the opportunity to photograph you. Your timeless style and personality is stunning, and will take you great places in life. Stay classy. (:

North Cypress Member Perks

I've had a few minimum wage-esque jobs in high school and college, most of which were at gyms, coffee shops, or heck, even coffee shops IN gyms. I'll tell you, there's something about working in both of these atmospheres that just brightens your day--or it did for me, at least. I loved the spirit of uplifting people I met in both of these places so much, that I always say someday, perhaps when I retire, I'll go back and work in a gym or a coffee shop--just for the sake of meeting bright and beautiful people. Perhaps its the good endorphins flowing and the routine-oriented people that frequent these places, I don't know. But I'll tell you, they're a bunch of happy humans.

Health and wellness are a pretty big deal to me. I think caring for your body and fueling it for success and longevity is one of the greatest gifts you could give yourself. It invigorates the mind, as well as the physical body, it breeds an environment of goals, and it paves the way for personal achievement. We've been members of our particular gym for a few years now, and I'll tell you, the faces we come to see every day there, just become sort of like an uplifting family.

Well, it turns out, our already AWESOME gym is in the process of a $3 million dollar expansion. Yep, you read that right. A fabulous club that already has a sauna, outdoor pool, tons of group exercise class offerings, a bistro, a salon, and childcare is now expanding EVEN MORE. Part of their expansion will include larger group exercise rooms, tons of new equipment, a sports complex, a private poolside party room, and some pretty cool new training concepts. The best part? Our monthly membership is EXTREMELY affordable. If you're local and want to read more about the expansion, you can do so here.

Anyhow, what's the point of me telling you this on my photography blog? Well, I'll tell you. (: As part of their new expansion and courtesy to members, new and old, North Cypress is partnering with a few local businesses to provide savings exclusively for North Cypress members. I'm so thrilled to announce that I've decided to partner with them for the upcoming year! SO, if you're a member or thinking about becoming a member, feel free to contact me or the club for more information on these sweet deals exclusive to YOU. I'm so looking forward to meeting you and expanding Kali Norton Photography with these offerings this year!

And if you are a local and would like to meet me and see more of my work in person, I will be at Imagine Boutique in downtown Hammond next Friday, April 4th from 6pm til 10pm for Art in April.  Our little town is so great at putting on events to celebrate art and local business, all with the most festive atmosphere. So come stop by, browse Imagine Boutique's PERFECT new Spring arrivals, and have a glass of bubbly with me! I'd love to meet you!

Patrick {Senior 2014}...and a Favorite Quote, as of Late.

You know, I thought that I was more of a Winter-loving person, but it turns out, I think I'm just a lover of the seasons changing. As these little Winter storms are becoming more and more sparse, I've been so giddy at the thought of blooming flowers and days where I can wear shorts. It was even warm enough to lay out a few Saturdays ago. The change of seasons is refreshing--something to look forward to, if you will.

I came across this quote a few months ago, and oh, how it resonated with me on so many levels. In addition to being a lover of Camus' work, this quote just spoke to my soul when my soul needed speaking to...

"In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me lay an invincible summer." -Albert Camus

One day, I'll share more personally about how this quote has spoken to me. But for now, I hope that just its mere introduction into your life today might give you some hope if you're needing it. Some strength to know that there's an invincible summer coming from those battles life may be throwing at you. Because you see, you should never forget the beauty life begs to bring from breakdown. Ah, there is SO much beauty in breakdown, my friends.

In addition to loving this quote, the ever-fabulous Chelsea Petaja of Oh My Deer makes the most perfect soul-speaking art prints from quotes in classic literature, among other beautiful things. Here's her fabulous art print (photo credit from her site) that I've been dreaming of for my living room wall since before Christmas...

You should most certainly go check her work out. I'm just dying for a few of her prints to construct the "Us" wall in my house--complete with vintage comics, nerdy posters, and artful quotations of literature. Oh, you just wait. (:

And because every post is better with some actual pictures, here's one of my super awesome seniors, Patrick. He was SO much fun to work with and get to know and absolutely comfortable in front of the camera. We had such a fun little afternoon strolling the streets downtown. Patrick has great taste. In fact, his shoes had me itching to head to the store to get Preston some new kicks...

Patrick, thank you so much for the opportunity to photograph you. It was a pleasure getting to know you! I wish you the absolute best next year into your beginning adventures into adulthood.

Mia {Senior 2014}

I know I say it so much that it probably sounds like nothing more than a broken record at this point, but I truly, truly enjoy every minute of the experience of photographing my high school seniors. You see, I've finally reached the point where I'm not inundated with more sessions than I can handle or stressed editing a session that doesn't match my style and feel of photography; but instead, I'm at a point where nearly every single person who has booked with me in the past year shares a desire for a style and vision similar to my own. They approach me with trust--and more importantly, with a vision that we execute together, as a team. And this, my friends, means SO much more to me than being overly booked and overly busy.

This, for me, means...more attention to each individual.

This, for me, means...more quality, less quantity.

This, for me, means...actually getting to experience what makes a senior, a family, a couple, who they are.

This, for me, means...creating a personal experience with each client, rather than a checklist of tasks.

This, for me, means...time to breathe--for living, experiencing, and documenting life; NOT being so busy that I miss the beautiful parts of life my clients, friends, and experiences have to show me.

This, for me, means...the reason I started my business in the first place.

I'll let you in on a  little secret. I've actually been suuuuper discouraged about some business goals lately. I was just sort of feeling like no matter how far I have come, I still have SO far to go. This is something I tend to do in all areas of my life. Looking at how far others have come, both personally and professionally, and digging out the ugly comparison monster. Sound familiar? I know it does. (:

I'm far from where I dream to be, and in fact, still have so so very many steps left to get there; but after taking a breather and stepping back to realize the gift it is to so pleasantly experience beautiful, radiant seniors like Miss Mia here, I've realized that I am right where I want to be--ever learning, ever changing, and most importantly, ever growing.

So, without further sappy ado from Queen Emotion here, please enjoy sweet Mia. This girl is genuine y'all. A heart of gold...and yet another wardrobe that I'd just like to duplicate for myself. ESPECIALLY that Abercrombie scarf and those Steve Madden boots below. (:

Mia's persona was calm and inviting. She exuded a warmth that said so much about her character, without saying anything at all. Mia, her mom, and I had an absolutely pleasurable time full of giggles and great conversation during her session.

Mia, you were a graceful and welcomed pleasure to photograph. Keep that warmth and big heart always. I know such great things lie ahead for you!

 

Because a Smiling Girl is the Prettiest Kind

I called her out of the blue in April of 2012, during the Africa deployment to show my support, as she knew no one. Little did I know when I made that phone call, that this little lady would become such a beautiful part of this season of my life. My sweet soul sister, Stacy, came to visit this past week for Mardi Gras and I could not have been more excited to see her. She's from Lincoln, Nebraska--and if you've never visited Lincoln, I must say, it's rather lovely. You might remember her from this session I did of her and her boys during my last visit to see her.

We managed to fit in a little photo shoot while she was here, in which I channeled my inner boho and flower child. If you know me at all, you know it wasn't that hard to channel those. (:

 Preston is pretty fabulous at being my sidekick while shooting. Of course, he's always with me at weddings, but it's rare that he gets to tag along for a planned session. Since he was with us, he took it upon himself to get some natural emotion out of Stacy.

AND since Preston was there, I was able to hop in for a few with my sweet friend. Because, girl power...duh. (:

And since it's rare that I'm all dolled up AND Preston is present AND the camera is out, I got him to snap a few of me in my new favorite tunic from Imagine Boutique. If you live in the Hammond/Ponchatoula area and haven't been by, their new arrivals for Spring had me smitten. And if you're not from the area, I do believe they will be launching a website soon. (:

The tunic is especially nice, given our weather lately just can't seem to make up it's mind between Winter and Spring...

AND just a reminder in case somehow you missed it, please please PLEASE don't forget about the epic giveaway I have going on right now! Don't be scared to nominate people guys. It's a beautiful thing. I want to hear the inspiring stories of those who inspire you. GO, GO, GO!

Happy, Happy Thursday my friends!

Grace in Your Heart and Flowers in Your Hair - My Most Meaningful Giveaway, EVER (EXTENDED DEADLINE)

The essence of a woman, is by far, the most bafflingly beautiful thing to me. There is a particular strength, dignity, and grace interwoven in the soul of a woman that is just breathtaking.  Lately, this particular subject has really moved me.  I've been driven by stories, inspired by silent battles, and just moved by the women around me who have endured or are currently enduring with a level of grace, dignity, and preserverance that just simply deserves a little light.

Perhaps this is why I have such a deep love and devotion for photographing women. I feel that a photograph of a woman smiling, truly a joyful smile is one of the most breathtakingly powerful sights. I feel that the intimate moment captured between a mother and her newborn is a breath of love that no one in the world can understand but her. I feel that the bold beauty of a high school senior trying to find her place in this great big world is more than just a pretty photograph, but rather, a message that tells her that she is good enough, beautiful enough, smart enough--that she has something all her own to offer to the world. I believe that a woman has more power at her fingertips by the grace, dignity, and levels of love she can offer to the world than any other creature on this Earth.

I truly believe that what we as women need even is uplifting from other women. I like to think that we are like reflectors, and by being uplifting, we set the bar for others to do the same. With that being said, I've decided this year to put on the biggest contest I've ever held to celebrate the strength and beauty of the women we call our mothers, our friends, our sisters, daughters, companions--the ones who've fought battles, silently or with support of loved ones--the ones who need a little light in their lives.

WHAT WILL THEY WIN, YOU ASK?

The winner, chosen by me based on all nominated submissions, will be gifted an ENTIRE Lifestyle Collection Session (including styling direction, session, gallery of edited images, blog feature with a write-up on the specific beauty and grace behind the woman in the photographs) valued at over $500.

Sessions will be gifted for use in the Hammond/Ponchatoula area, HOWEVER, this should NOT discourage readers from ANYWHERE to enter. Should the winner want a session somewhere other than where I am located, they can still be awarded the same $500 valued collection and would simply have to provide my travel costs. Still a phenomenal win, if you ask me. Plus, I'd LOVE to hear stories from ANY and EVERYWHERE.

ALSO, if the nominated winner chosen is from out of state, they will be contacted with a choice to accept. If they decline, the next winner will be chosen. All of that being said to not sway ANYONE from nominating deserving contenders.

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HERE'S HOW IT WILL WORK:

I'm looking for nominations for any woman, of any age, you know who's fought or is currently fighting some sort of battle OR striving to reach some sort of goal for self-improvement with an awe-inspiring grace and dignity.

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WHAT YOU NEED TO INCLUDE IN AN ENTRY:

Her name.

A photograph of her, link to her Facebook, OR link to her Instagram.

Her story and what about her story makes her inspiring to you or others. Give me as much information as possible as to what makes her beautiful, strong, and dignified. (NO personal information about any contestants will be published without my first contacting them for approval once all submissions have been entered).

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HOW LONG DO YOU HAVE TO SUBMIT ENTRIES?

Nomination submission deadline is EXTENDED THROUGH MARCH. Deadline is April 1, 2014 at Midnight CST.

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WHERE DO YOU SUBMIT NOMINATIONS?

All nominations should be emailed to kali(at)kalinorton.com or via my website contact page with the subject line "2014 Nomination."

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I absolutely cannot wait to be moved by the powerful women we are surrounded by. I truly believe in documentation through photographs to affirm life's charm and serve as a delicate reminder that, somewhere in the muddle, there is radiance.

P.S. - Fabulous quote above credit goes to Mumford & Sons, from their song "After the Storm."

Renee {Senior 2014}

Between the cozy boho chic, the creams and bold colors, and Renee's insanely fabulous ability to work the camera, I pretty much almost fell out, right onto the floor with overwhelming excitement over everything about her. She's adorably sweet, a pro at makeup application, and I'm pretty sure I'd be fine hanging out with her for hours, any day. Much like all of my seniors so far this year, spending time with Renee and working on her session simply left me speechless. Between the beauty, grace, and potential these girls have at their fingertips, I have such high hopes for what the future holds for them. I always try my hardest to keep up with my seniors after graduation, even if only through social media, and see where the limitless potential they have takes them...

This portion of Renee's session, in particular, was inspired by my love for creamy cable knits, as well as my obsession with American Horror Story. If you are also an AHS fan, just imagine Lily Rabe's character, Misty, dancing to Stevie Nicks here. (;

Renee conveyed so much natural emotion in her photographs. I'm pretty much in love with her, her baby doll face, and those pretty smiles.

And in case you live under a rock and didn't think it already, can we say Megan Fox? Seriously. And I know I'm not crazy, because the first three of my friends to view her photos commented the exact same thing. This girl... Renee, I had the most fun spending time with you and learning about the things that you love. I cannot wait to see where the future brings you--I have the highest of hopes for you, sweet girl.

The 2013 Portrait Favorites

Whew, what a year of growth and self-exploration 2013 was for both me personally and my business. Since the holidays are over and I refuse to let the post-Christmas blues get me down, I've decided to start a yearly tradition in which YOU get to vote on YOUR favorite portraits of 2013! The client voted favorite portrait will win a $25 gift card to Gap, Jcrew, or Anthropologie (winner's choice). Most of these are from my 2013 portrait sessions, with the exception of a couple from 2012 that I just couldn't not include, since I've never done a giveaway of favorites before. Also, because my favorite portraits are the ones heavy on emotion, I've converted them into black and white. While I love a color portrait, I believe that the black and white allows you to fully observe the beauty of emotion I was trying to capture in each photograph. Here's how it will work: To vote, simply state your favorite of the twenty listed in the comments at the bottom of the post, that's it! 

One vote is allowed per reader; however, you may share the post and get as much friends and family to vote as you'd like! The contest starts today and goes through this Wednesday, January 8th at midnight. The winner will be announced on Thursday's blog post.

Disclaimer: This does not include my weddings, so if you were one of my brides, don't feel left out, I've just decided that weddings did not belong in this category. Instead, I think I may do a summer giveaway especially for brides in the future.

1. Waller - Lifestyle Family Portrait

2. Dunckleman - Lifestyle Portrait

3. Blanchard - Lifestyle Family Portrait

4. Callie - Senior Lifestyle Portrait

5. Nelson - Lifestyle Engagement Portrait

6. Kaylyn - Lifestyle Senior Portrait

7. Rebecca - Lifestyle Maternity Portrait

8. Franklin - Lifestyle Family Portrait

9. Waguespack - Lifestyle Engagement Portrait

10. Ducote - Lifestyle Family Portrait

11. Fabre - Lifestyle Family Portrait

12. Franklin - Lifestyle Newborn Portrait

13. Blanchard - Lifestyle Family Portrait

14. Dunckleman - Lifestyle Portrait

15. Bailey - Lifestyle Senior Potrait

16. Owen - Lifestyle Family Portrait

17. Waller - Lifestyle Newborn Portrait

18. Cefalu - Lifestyle Family Portrait 

19. Harrison - Lifestyle Portrait

20. Minear - Lifestyle Family Portrait

To vote, simply enter YOUR favorite in the comments below. Contest ends at midnight on Wednesday, January 8th. The client voted favorite portrait will win a $25 gift card to Gap, Jcrew, or Anthropologie (winner's choice). Happy voting!

Callie {Senior 2014}

When Callie walked up to me and said, "I'm not very good in front of the camera," I wanted to very politely laugh in her face. Because firstly, I don't think anyone is truly awful in front of the camera, it just takes the right cues to get natural feelings flowing. But secondly, geesh, look at her...

I don't generally go for oranges and bright colors in sessions, but when we started brainstorming outfits and she mentioned this dress, I almost fell out onto the floor in excitement. Natural and earthy is what she brought me, and oh, they're my most favorite. I hope you enjoy every bit of her earthy senior goodness. I'm pretty sure these should be in a magazine.

We switched it up and threw some cozy into the mix. You know this is my other favorite... Callie, I love your gentle aura and the soft, yet quirky nature you have about you. To another one of my precious, breathtaking seniors, I wish you every ounce of the best luck, love, and success.

Kaylyn {Senior 2014}

I must say, I totally join the masses when it comes to being a lover of all things Fall and Winter. Crunchy leaves, classy and cozy sweaters, good hair days, leggings, boots, and scarves. I'm sure some of you are tired of hearing of these things already, but, don't be a scrooge -- it's a lovely time of year! My sweet senior, Kaylyn, did her session on a perfect Fall day -- crunchy leaves on the ground, crisp air, the most perfect outfits and attitude. I always tend to post heavy on my field shots, but I can't help it, I'm a sucker for the gorgeous light and beautiful outfits fields bring about!

Kaylyn has a quiet spirit and light-hearted laugh that could brighten up any room. I think her quiet persona, around me at least, made my heart so full when she gave that big, beautiful smile and spurts of laughter. I've said it many times before and I'll say it again, I never, ever get tired of photographs capturing a moment of a truly happy woman. It's a tough life, especially for girls as we grow older, to keep that beautiful radiance, strength, dignity, and optimism into adulthood--but I believe it's always there somewhere in a woman--a serving spirit and radiant soul. I believe it's important for women to see and understand the moving power behind the sight of a happy woman, especially if it's in her own self. So this is why a truly happy photograph of a woman will always be one of the most breathtaking things on this Earth to me.

Now, enough of that. Enjoy Kaylyn in all of her youthful radiance...

Kaylyn put on J'adore Lexie Couture's Flower Crown in a few shots and we had a little fun...

Then, we moved on to play in some crunchy leaves...

Kaylyn, it was truly a pleasure photographing you. I wish you nothing but happiness and success in your upcoming years...

Kenyetta {Senior 2014}

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who'll decide where to go...”- Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss's Oh, the Places You'll Go, always comes to mind as I meet a new year's seniors. Every year, actually more like every session, my seniors absolutely blow me out of the water. Eighteen years old, club presidents, cheerleading captains, top of their class, you name it. Gorgeous, ambitious, prepared. I always wonder as I'm editing their sessions, truly curious as to what great things they will go onto achieve--because I know they are destined for nothing less than that.

I had so much fun photographing Kenyetta. She was a sweet, kind soul. I could feel it in her aura from the second I met her. Kenyetta wore some of J'adore Lexie Couture's gorgeous headbands, and oh sweet goodness did they make her session!  And of course, since I've been on a fruit kick this Fall with my sessions, we decided for a basket of lemons with Lexie's Pumpkin Woods Headband. The warmth in these shots had me squealing with excitement. I can't even handle it...

Kenyetta also wore, my personal favorite, the J'adore Lexie Couture Le Halo Angélique, Flower Crown. Stay tuned in the coming weeks for a special giveaway from J'adore Lexie Couture on here!

Kenyetta, I know you will to great things. Keep that sweet glimmer in your eyes and that gentle persona. You are a beautiful soul!  Happy Friday!

Bailey {Senior 2014}

"Take pictures in your mind of your childhood room,Memorize what it sounded like when your dad gets home. Remember the footsteps, remember the words said And all your little brother's favorite songs."

Those are words from a Taylor Swift song, but, oh my sweet, beautiful, goal-driven seniors, remember them. You're ready to move onto the next chapter of your life, I know you are -- and rightfully so. Your college years are a great, exciting new adventure. These years ahead will open your mind and your heart to places they've never been. You will meet people from all places and walks of life. Some will befriend you, many will teach you, some will be parts of some of the most memorable nights of your life, and then others will let you down. These years will be ones of exponential growth. You're headed for the beginnings of your walk into adulthood, and when you're done with the next four years, you will look back and see just what I meant when these words were written.

Every year I have a few seniors that I truly see small bits and pieces of my high school self in. Bailey's drive in school and extracurriculars and her bubbly personality were just that. On the other hand though, I did NOT have her style in high school. I'm not even old, at all, but for some reason I feel like the seriously rockin' styles my seniors come to the table with now just weren't nearly as awesome...or maybe I was totally out of the fashion loop. Ew, let's not dwell there.

Let's dwell on Bailey's earthy crochet-style dress that I need as a wardrobe addition and the to-die-for light in her field shots...

Hats and pearls will forever remain classy to me and tans and blacks do far too much for my soul. My mom used to fuss me when I was little because she claimed I only had grays, blacks, whites, and tans in my wardrobe. This still remains about 70% true and I'm not mad about it. Sorry momma! I just think they're such classy, earthy colors.

Bailey, and my many sweet seniors that will leave an imprint on me this year -- savor these moments. Enjoy the experiences ahead, and never, ever lose that beautiful drive that exists in you now. It will get you many places in life. It will be your intuition and your guiding light when adult things begin to muddle your sparkle. It will be your satisfaction at the end of countless hours and days of studying or working towards some huge, scary goal. It will be much of what's left in you when those you count on let you down. And somewhere among the muddle when all of these things happen, you will remember your drive. You will remember the strong, beautiful woman your momma, your daddy, your grandma, your teachers, your mentors helped you become in those definitive years of your childhood. Never let anyone dull that beautiful sparkle!

Fall Promo + Senior 2014 Peek!

Oh happy day! I'm a sucker for Fall and all of its cozy goodness. To ring in October, I've decided to offer a little promo. Feel free to SHARE this photo with anyone you think that might be interested! $50 OFF COLLECTION BOOKINGS! Check the photo below for details. Fall books up super quickly as it is, so take advantage of this offer to secure your spot. I will be accepting sessions in time for Christmas and Christmas card printing thru November 21st!

And to get you hyped for the beginning of my seniors I adore so very much, here's a peek at Bailey's session! Stay tuned for her full blog posting and more from her session next week!

Have a happy, safe weekend! I'm off to one full of baby showers to welcome some sweet little ones into the world soon! I told you all of my friends were expecting. (;