Daniel & Ashley

There are the road trips, the camping, the exploring new places for their dogs to run, and the long afternoon drives with no destination in mind. When asked what Daniel and Ashley's favorite things to do were, it didn't take long to see that the couple's love for wide open spaces was rivaled only by their love and admiration for family and friends. But it was what Ashley wrote in an email that really caused me to stop and catch my breath, making me realize just what a beautiful couple I was working with. "We both go to work every day with the motivation that some day we will have our own ranch where our dogs, horses, cattle (and us) can run free".

...And just like that, one of my favorite engagement sessions to date was born.

Daniel and Ashley, I feel so blessed to be the one that gets to document your wedding day. Thank you for trusting me with your pictures. And thank you for introducing me to your dogs. And your horses. And your lives.

I'm kind of in love with them all.

Meet Trey and Axle, the best looking farm dogs I ever did see.

This is Beau. While a little shy at first, after realizing this was his free pass to stardom he really did rise to the occasion.

A little family portrait...

...and a quick outfit change.

At the end of the session we ran over to a neighbor's - who also happens to be the best dentist in town (Hi Dr. Keener!) - and borrowed his fabulous red barn. And right before my eyes this already perfect engagement session got a little bit sweeter.

Happy Weekend, Michelle

Pretty Little Weddings : FEATURED

I guess I should have known it would happen – with a couple as ridiculously perfect as this, somebody is bound to take notice. But when Jillian wrote to ask if she could feature Kelsi + Matt’s engagement session on the gorge wedding blog, Pretty Little Weddings, I was still blown away. I do a happy dance every time I find out one of my couples is being featured. The dance is, like myself, supra awkward and extremely incriminating. But having your client’s published? I like to think that’s something to dance about. The truth is, I can’t take credit for these pictures. With Kelsi and Matt I really, really didn’t even need to be at their session. I could have left the camera on a tripod in a field and these two would have mastered the shoot with equal beauty and grace. But I’m thankful, and happy, they let me join in on the fun.

Kels + Matt, I love you both with all my heart. Way to go on wit yo bad selves being all beautiful and stuff. And Pretty Little Weddings? Well, thank you a million times over for the lovely feature!!

To view Kelsi + Matt's feature CLICK HERE!

Happy Wednesday, Michelle

Kaitlyn + Kyle :: Portland Engagement Photography

I'll be honest, when Kaitlyn first called to tell me about her new beau I was skeptical. Kaitlyn and I had been friends since the sixth grade and had been talking about Mr. Right since roughly that time as well. We wondered about his rugged good looks, his love for the outdoors, his witty sense of humor, and his passion for college football - four essentials otherwise known as the key points of Husbandry 101. So when I met Kyle for the first time in January of 2008, I arrived with a critical eye. Did he really love fishing as much as Kaitlyn claimed he did? Was he really, actually, funny? And could I count on him to buy Kaitlyn season tickets to Oregon State's football team?! Imagine my delight when I found that the answer to all my lingering questions (and many more) was a resounding YES! Not only did he pass our (slightly superficial) test with flying colors, but he soared above and beyond any man I could ever have dreamt of for Kaitlyn. He's kind, selfless, adventurous, and he has an uncanny ability to put up with Kaitlyn's fiery spirit (I love you, K!).

And Kaitlyn? Kaitlyn is equally as wonderful as Kyle (well, maybe even a little more so because she's my friend). She's without a doubt the easiest person you'll ever find to talk to. She's thoughtful and caring and has yet to meet a stranger. In a word, she's really just a hoot - an adorable, blonde, all-American kick in the pants.

Kaitlyn and Kyle, I, just...love you. I'll refrain from getting too sappy on the internet, but you should know that I think the world of you both. I feel so honored to be shooting your wedding and cannot wait for October to finally arrive.

LoveLOVElove,

M.

World, meet Lucy - the most precious dog on Earth.

Kaitlyn, I know you don't need me to tell you this, but you are stunning. Absolutely stunning!

We found a gorgeous open field under the Burnside Bridge and Kaitlyn and Kyle volunteered a few of their uh-dorable dancing skills.

Oh my heart...

And the bling - complete with Kyle's grandmother's diamond.

After one last wardrobe change we shot a few quick pictures in the city...

...you two look good!

I can't decide which I love more; Kaitlyn's laugh, or the look on Kyle's face as he's looking at his girl. Both are sort of wonderful.

Happy Wednesday!