Colorado Springs Photographer Blog

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Adventure Family Photography Session at Eleven Mile State Park

Danica is a local birth photographer and it was such an honor to document the love her family shares during their session with me. I have gotten to work with Danica and her crew before when I was making a branding film ages ago. They were so sweet and perfect then, just as they are now. These two are parents who are connected to their babes and truly lead by example (well, most days, haha).

We traveled into the mountains to one of my favorites spots at Eleven Mile State Park and explored this glorious, nature-filled space together. My little friends brought along their binoculars, and their free spirits and we chased the sun and each other all evening. It was the best and I was totally there for it.

This year, I want to travel and meet clients in all the beautiful places in Colorado and beyond. Each year I get close and close to the ultimate goal of traveling in my camper and photographing families and couples along during my own adventures with my family. There is a lot that goes into that type of business/lifestyle change so it will be a couple of years, in the meantime, I’ll be taking airplanes and traveling in my trusty car to get to all those hidden gems that I stumble upon.

Danica is a local birth photographer and it was such an honor to document the love her family shares during their session with me. I have gotten to work with Danica and her crew before when I was making a branding film ages ago. They were so sweet and perfect then, just as they are now. These two are parents who are connected to their babes and truly lead by example (well, most days, haha).

We traveled into the mountains to one of my favorites spots at Eleven Mile State Park and explored this glorious, nature-filled space together. My little friends brought along their binoculars, and their free spirits and we chased the sun and each other all evening. It was the best and I was totally there for it.

This year, I want to travel and meet clients in all the beautiful places in Colorado and beyond. Each year I get close and close to the ultimate goal of traveling in my camper and photographing families and couples along during my own adventures with my family. There is a lot that goes into that type of business/lifestyle change so it will be a couple of years, in the meantime, I’ll be taking airplanes and traveling in my trusty car to get to all those hidden gems that I stumble upon.

Want to come long on an adventure with me? Soon, I will be adding some β€œbucket list” locations to my location catalog. These are locations that I have scouted but not yet photographed in. I get so excited for new spaces and I can promise you that it will be a wild and worthwhile ride. Let’s connect?

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Family Photography Session in Central Colorado Springs

It’s not every day that you celebrate the day that your baby girl turns two! Miss Luna and her family hung out with me during their family photography session in central Colorado Springs. This space is one of my favorites because it is close to the mountains and still accessible for the little ones to play and run. It was the perfect space for Jordyn and her family of three.

Being two must feel like flying. Seriously, friends, I want to be two again. Don’t you? Stop kidding yourself, of course, you do. The beauty of loving what is right in front of you. Picking up rocks as you please, jumping, playing, singing songs, and just being truly who your little soul is. I love it and I’ll admit I’m a bit jealous that I can’t be that free. I mean, shouldn’t we all be a bit jealous of that?

Time is a weird thing that we use to hold markers for ourselves. It truly doesn’t mean as much as we think it does. It’s interesting to look into a culture other than your own and explore their thoughts on time and how it affects them. Let those babies keep their curiosity and wondrous nature for a bit longer, no matter the time. We would all be a bit more beautiful if we did that. Right?

It’s not every day that you celebrate the day that your baby girl turns two! Miss Luna and her family hung out with me during their family photography session in central Colorado Springs. This space is one of my favorites because it is close to the mountains and still accessible for the little ones to play and run. It was the perfect space for Jordyn and her family of three.

Being two must feel like flying. Seriously, friends, I want to be two again. Don’t you? Stop kidding yourself, of course, you do. The beauty of loving what is right in front of you. Picking up rocks as you please, jumping, playing, singing songs, and just being truly who your little soul is. I love it and I’ll admit I’m a bit jealous that I can’t be that free. I mean, shouldn’t we all be a bit jealous of that?

Time is a weird thing that we use to hold markers for ourselves. It truly doesn’t mean as much as we think it does. It’s interesting to look into a culture other than your own and explore their thoughts on time and how it affects them. Let those babies keep their curiosity and wondrous nature for a bit longer, no matter the time. We would all be a bit more beautiful if we did that. Right?

Sometimes, I get off on some interesting self-reflection when I write these posts. I want it to be more about what I can contribute to the world versus sharing just the story of the family I am posting about. These images are lovely in and of themselves and I think, for me, linking their story to something in my heart is what I am eager to do the most. How are we all connected and why does it matter. These little bits of story show the connections we most certainly have and the authenticity of them.

I would love to connect with you too and share your family’s love story authentically. Can we do it? Can we meet and walk and play and talk? You can reach out to me and check out info on family sessions via the button below.

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Family Photography in the Rocky Mountain Foothills

Danielle is a fellow photographer and mama. She and her boys were coming to Colorado for a visit, so naturally, she wanted to get in a family photography session while they were here. The reason? Her little boy, Noah, was suddenly not so little anymore. She wanted to document these fleeting days before they are snuffed out by the beaconing of adolescence. Babies, oh how they do grow up, much quicker than you think too.

Noah reminds me of my son Ellis, I know, I talk about him a lot but, you know what, that’s okay. It feels good to talk about my sweet boy. I can remember when I first saw his squished-up face on the other side of the curtain in the OR. So small but also so big. I am sure that Danielle remembers the first time she saw her little boy too. I am sure that mothers save a special space in their soul to etch that memory right on in. To keep and hold forever.

Danielle is a fellow photographer and mama. She and her boys were coming to Colorado for a visit, so naturally, she wanted to get in a family photography session while they were here. The reason? Her little boy, Noah, was suddenly not so little anymore. She wanted to document these fleeting days before they are snuffed out by the beaconing of adolescence. Babies, oh how they do grow up, much quicker than you think too.

Noah reminds me of my son Ellis, I know, I talk about him a lot but, you know what, that’s okay. It feels good to talk about my sweet boy. I can remember when I first saw his squished up face on the other side of the curtain in the OR. So small but also so big. I am sure that Danielle remembers the first time she saw her little boy too. I am sure that mothers save a special space in their soul to etch that memory right on in. To keep and hold forever.

Now we are here mama, your baby boy is growing and his squish is becoming less squishy. He is coming into his own and time will keep ticking by. We have these though. These proofs that there was snuggling, laughter, and tokens of love. I got you mama. I won’t let you forget. I won’t let you forget because I also don’t want to forget. I want to remember my sons wispy hair and scrunchy nose. His belly laugh that is so contagious you can’t help but smile too. I want to remember all the little things that I know will be gone once I blink my eyes.

There can be many reasons why you want to document this season in your life. Danielle and I share a similar story but not everyone has the same circumstances. What is your story? What is your why? Can I help you tell the love story of your family?

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Authentic Family Photography in Cheyenne Canon

Lisa, oh Lisa. Mama, you waited so long to have your family session with me. Your kiddos are another year older and you finally got to take that Colorado trip to see me! Lisa had scheduled her family session with me last year, but as all things, COVID threw a wrench into her plans and we had to postpone. It was certainly worth the wait.

These kids are firecrackers and lovers to their core, you can just feel it. Smiling and full of happy. I know I talk about it a lot but I really do wish I could perpetually be a kid. The world seemed so much bigger and overall, the problems felt smaller. I can imagine that allows for more of the happy to shine through. Kiddos radiate unfiltered love and curiosity. I. Am. Jealous. I’m not too proud to admit it. Being an adult does have its perks though. Being able to eat whatever you want is my favorite one, haha.

Lisa, oh Lisa. Mama, you waited so long to have your family session with me. Your kiddos are another year older and you finally got to take that Colorado trip to see me! Lisa had scheduled her family session with me last year, but as all things, COVID threw a wrench into her plans and we had to postpone. It was certainly worth the wait.

These kids are firecrackers and lovers to their core, you can just feel it. Smiling and full of happy. I know I talk about it a lot but I really do wish I could perpetually be a kid. The world seemed so much bigger and overall, the problems felt smaller. I can imagine that allows for more of the happy to shine through. Kiddos radiate unfiltered love and curiosity. I. Am. Jealous. I’m not too proud to admit it. Being an adult does have its perks though. Being able to eat whatever you want is my favorite one, haha.

Lisa and her family, as you can see from their gallery, are authentically connected. Truly. Their connection is the connection I am seeking when I meet up with you and your family. Each family holds their own stories and ways they show their appreciation and admiration for one another. That is probably the best part about this job. Watching that authenticity bud and grow during our time together.

Hello friend, here reading about Lisa’s family, I would love to work with you and yours too! You can click the button below for more information about my family sessions and to take a peek at my booking calendar. See you soon!


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Boho Maternity Session with Pikes Peak Views

Kaitlyn and Jake, how did you two create such a beautiful baby boy? Ledger and I became fast friends during his mama’s maternity session with me in this lovely Colorado Springs location. It was a bit chilly that evening but still warm enough to have little Ledger’s bare skin showing with his mama. Doesn’t it just make those first few photos all that more authentically connected?

Kaitlyn trusted me to guide her with what I felt would look good and tell their story in the most authentic way. I took my lead from Ledger, and when he got too chilly, we put on the beautiful undershirt that his mama brought for him.

Kaitlyn and Jake, how did you two create such a beautiful baby boy? Ledger and I became fast friends during his mama’s maternity session with me in this lovely Colorado Springs location. It was a bit chilly that evening but still warm enough to have little Ledger’s bare skin showing with his mama. Doesn’t it just make those first few photos all that more authentically connected?

Kaitlyn trusted me to guide her with what I felt would look good and tell their story in the most authentic way. I took my lead from Ledger, and when he got too chilly, we put on the beautiful undershirt that his mama brought for him.

It was all so lovely and perfect and by taking my lead from Ledger, it allowed him to naturally be happy, until the end of the session, haha. He was just overwhelmed and wasn’t having it anymore. That’s when I held him and took a few of just mama and dad with that sweet baby belly. Ledger and I worked together and I made sure to make sure that he was feeling good in the neighborhood as much as I could. That’s my favorite part; leaving the littles feeling happy.

Anyway, I cannot wait to see this sweet babe and see Ledger be a big brother! Kaitlyn, I will be stalking your IG feed girl, you better believe it! Are you here on this blog thinking about booking me for your maternity session? You can reach out for maternity collection pricing and inclusions using the form linked via the button below. Come say hi!

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Motherhood Session in North Cheyenne Canyon

Mamas and their sons, I cannot think of anything sweeter. This North Cheyenne Canyon motherhood session was such a nice way to start my spring sessions. Abbey and her son, Lucas, explored one of my favorite trails in the canyon on a lazy Sunday afternoon with me.

It was not long ago that my son, Ellis was this small. His hair was long and whispy and his eyes curious and full of wonder for the world around him. I can picture him perfectly in my mind. Best friend’s peanut butter and jelly t-shirt on with a dirty sticky face, ear to ear grin, his tiny teeth on parade when he laughed. He had a pretty prominent speech issue and I love it when I find videos of him singing along in his own little way. G’s become d sounds, s’s become y sounds. The rap of a toddler.

Little Lucas here, he and his mama share these same moments. Years from now, when she sees these images, she will be ushered back. Sticky hands and faces, stolen bites of candy, and pockets full of rocks. Lucas will only grow and grow and now his mama has this gallery to help her earmark some of those smaller memories that you don’t ever want to lose.

Mamas and their sons, I cannot think of anything sweeter. This North Cheyenne Canyon motherhood session was such a nice way to start my spring sessions. Abbey and her son, Lucas, explored one of my favorite trails in the canyon on a lazy Sunday afternoon with me.

It was not long ago that my son, Ellis was this small. His hair was long and whispy and his eyes curious and full of wonder for the world around him. I can picture him perfectly in my mind. Best friend’s peanut butter and jelly t-shirt on with a dirty sticky face, ear to ear grin, his tiny teeth on parade when he laughed. He had a pretty prominent speech issue and I love it when I find videos of him singing along in his own little way. G’s become d sounds, s’s become y sounds. The rap of a toddler.

Little Lucas here, he and his mama share these same moments. Years from now, when she sees these images, she will be ushered back. Sticky hands and faces, stolen bites of candy, and pockets full of rocks. Lucas will only grow and grow and now his mama has this gallery to help her earmark some of those smaller memories that you don’t ever want to lose.

Photos are wonderfully powerful and taking the time to get in the frame with those little ones is such a gift to give yourself. Let me help you keep tight of those memories. I would love to work with you and your family to document the authentic love you share for each other. We can take the time and explore nature together while you are fully present with your family. Let me hang out with you and provide you with a gallery of your love at the end. You can check out the family session collections I offer by clicking the button below.

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Boho Couples Session at Garden of the Gods

These two lovebirds and I met for their couples session at Garden of the Gods during their vacation trip to Colorado Springs. I know it sounds unbelievable when I say it but, about 40% of my clients are vacationing couples and families. Colorado Springs is in a wonderful location to spend quality time with the people you love. Situated closed to the Front Range and Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs offers the perfect scenery to take advantage of while visiting for a photography session.

Steph and Chris brought their sweet pup Eddie with them on their trip and to their session. I always ask the lovely folks I photograph if they plan on bringing their fur baby(ies) with them to their session. This just makes planning logistics easier and more smooth. I want to make sure we use a location that will keep everyone safe and feeling happy, pets included! I love getting my clients prepped for their time with me. From what to expect to the location to clothing. I am here for you!

These two lovebirds and I met for their couples session at Garden of the Gods during their vacation trip to Colorado Springs. I know it sounds unbelievable when I say it but, about 40% of my clients are vacationing couples and families. Colorado Springs is in a wonderful location to spend quality time with the people you love. Situated closed to the Front Range and Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs offers the perfect scenery to take advantage of while visiting for a photography session.

Steph and Chris brought their sweet pup Eddie with them on their trip and to their session. I always ask the lovely folks I photograph if they plan on bringing their fur baby(ies) with them to their session. This just makes planning logistics easier and more smooth. I want to make sure we use a location that will keep everyone safe and feeling happy, pets included! I love getting my clients prepped for their time with me. From what to expect to the location to clothing. I am here for you!

Speaking of clothing, oftentimes, clients will ask me what types of clothing they should wear. What color? Where should I buy it from? I use a really great tool that assists you with finding the perfect outfit for your session with me. Steph opted for a boho look with her long black dress and fun hat. Really playing with colors, textures, and movement can take a session to the next level.

When I offer my time or help with finding that perfect location, or outfit, I really mean it. I am proud to say that I am still doing this whole β€œsmall business” thing full time and I love to fill my time with things other than sitting in front of this computer. Please, if you are worried about having a session because you don’t know what to do about the small details, let me help you. Really really.

Ready to check out session collection inclusions and pricing? I would love to connect with you and plan a session that will produce a gallery you will love. Click the button below to get access to my couples session information. I can’t wait to chat with you!

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Sunset Elopement at Garden of the Gods

Planning your out-of-state elopement can feel a bit scary and uncertain, that’s where I come in! Jes and I planned her intimate elopement to Ken at Garden of the Gods and it couldn’t have been more authentic or lovely. It was just Jes, Ken, and myself during their elopement. It was full of happy tears, tender moments, soulful love and I am thankful I got to take part.

When you book an elopement photographer, you want to make sure that you feel comfortable being your authentic self with them. Find someone who shares your heart for the things you are passionate about. Allow yourself to connect with them on a deeper level. It should be more than, β€œHello, I am your photographer, now let’s take your photo”. Your elopement photographer should listen to you and take interest in your life. Someone who can feel you and your love and radiate back to you through a gallery of images that authentically show the love you and your partner share.

Planning your out-of-state elopement can feel a bit scary and uncertain, that’s where I come in! Jes and I planned her intimate elopement to Ken at Garden of the Gods and it couldn’t have been more authentic or lovely. It was just Jes, Ken, and myself during their elopement. It was full of happy tears, tender moments, soulful love and I am thankful I got to take part.

When you book an elopement photographer, you want to make sure that you feel comfortable being your authentic self with them. Find someone who shares your heart for the things you are passionate about. Allow yourself to connect with them on a deeper level. It should be more than, β€œHello, I am your photographer, now let’s take your photo”. Your elopement photographer should listen to you and take interest in your life. Someone who can feel you and your love and radiate back to you through a gallery of images that authentically show the love you and your partner share.

That’s my goal. That’s it. This isn’t for me. This is for you. However, this IS my chance to show you the moments that you never want to let go the wayside. Exchanging your tokens of love with each other is one of the most sincere things a person can do and I am going to Be. There. For. It. for you.

Do you like what you hear so far? On the same page as me as to why you want to document these moments with your love? Good! Let’s connect. You can check out more elopement coverage info via the button below. I would love to help!

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Coastal Oregon Family Photography Session

Oh Dani, how can I even begin to write these words, my dear friend? Thank you so much for allowing me to document the authentic love that you and your family share, and on the Oregon coast no less!! This gallery is everything I could have imagined it to be; believe me, I imagined it for a long while.

Dani and I met during a Dear Photographer Elevate + Grow Workshop. She was attending the workshop herself but then also modeled with her family for one of the sessions we did as a group. Dani’s bright light of a smile just drew me in. This girl. She is the friend you didn’t know you needed. Always sweet and caring. Always smiling and ready to be kind. I am forever glad that I met her and we remained in touch.

I think that building friendships like the one I have with Dani is what I missed most about last year. The fact that I didn’t get to attend any workshops made me super sad and missing my friends something fierce. Being able to once again snuggle up with the people I love and do all the things together is going to be such a lovely reality soon. I can just feel it.

Oh Dani, how can I even begin to write these words, my dear friend? Thank you so much for allowing me to document the authentic love that you and your family share, and on the Oregon coast no less!! This gallery is everything I could have imagined it to be; believe me, I imagined it for a long while.

Dani and I met during a Dear Photographer Elevate + Grow Workshop. She was attending the workshop herself but then also modeled with her family for one of the sessions we did as a group. Dani’s bright light of a smile just drew me in. This girl. She is the friend you didn’t know you needed. Always sweet and caring. Always smiling and ready to be kind. I am forever glad that I met her and we remained in touch.

I think that building friendships like the one I have with Dani is what I missed most about last year. The fact that I didn’t get to attend any workshops made me super sad and missing my friends something fierce. Being able to once again snuggle up with the people I love and do all the things together is going to be such a lovely reality soon. I can just feel it.

I want to touch on one more thing, and only because Dani brought it up after our time together. Imposter syndrome. She was actually worried that her family wasn’t as pretty as someone else’s family, WHAT?! She actually wrote those words, friends. Hello? Babe. Have you seen you? Not only are you a beautifully lovely person in your heart, but you also have the most pretty face and I want to squeeze you. Please, look at the gallery below. You are not an imposter and this gallery is life, Dani.

Are you here reading this sweet ode to my friend and thinking something similar yourself? Like you can’t get family photos done because you THINK you aren’t XYZ? Staaaaap it. Right. Now. Each family is different and unique. Each family and beautiful in its own authentic way. The love you share with the people you love is what makes or breaks your session; not how pretty you think (or don’t think) you. If you show up with that love in tow, I promise you a gallery full of authentically soulful moments between you and your fam bam.

Want to hang out with me? I am here for it and I want to hang out with you too! My summer is already starting to book up quickly and I cannot wait to see all the beautiful families and play in some new places. This year has been my busiest year yet and I cannot express my gratitude with enough appreciation for all of those who choose me to document their authentic moments. I can’t wait to document yours too!

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Oregon Coast Family Photography Session

This family photography session on the coast in Oregon was goals for me, friends. I actually got to photograph two families on this beach on the same weekend while taking my daughter on her 16th birthday road trip and it was glorious. Bristin and her crew are one of those families that I got to hang out within Colorado but then the military took it away, haha. That happens a lot in Colorado Springs with it being home to several military installations.

I try to always find the good parts of what feels like a sad situation, like when families move away. I think the biggest perk when this happens is traveling to them! I LOVE traveling and seeing new spaces and most of all, I love seeing old friends and documenting their authenticity in their new home.

This family photography session on the coast in Oregon was goals for me, friends. I actually got to photograph two families on this beach on the same weekend while taking my daughter on her 16th birthday road trip and it was glorious. Bristin and her crew are one of those families that I got to hang out with in Colorado but then the military took it away, haha. That happens a lot in Colorado Springs with it being home to several military installations.

I try to always find the good parts of what feels like a sad situation, like when families move away. I think the biggest perk when this happens is traveling to them! I LOVE traveling and seeing new spaces and most of all, I love seeing old friends and documenting their authenticity in their new home.

I have wanted to photograph a family on this coastal Oregon beach for over two years. The first time I ever journeyed there was with my lovely friends during a Dear Photographer Elevate + Grow Workshop. Space, the people, the weather, the plants, and small insect friends, I fell head over heels in love. Don’t get me wrong, I love our Colorado mountains (and showing all my vacationing clients an amazing time in them) but there is nothing quite like experiencing something new for yourself.

This session and time with friends was a restart to my heart. I truly enjoy my job and every one I get to meet and spend time with but there is something extra special and freeing about just letting it all go and being fluid in the moments you are in. I can pretty much predict what will happen at a family session in Colorado. At this new space, there were things to discover around every corner. Caves, rocks, the ocean, the pines. Who knows, maybe one day we will make the move to Oregon and play with families on this beach often.

Traveling away also allows you to revisit the appreciation you have for where you live. Our mountains are breathtaking and I need to remind myself that they are always majestic. Who knows what my future will hold or where I will live. I just know that wherever that is, it will be filled with nature and earth and good friends.

Are you a past client of mine reading this? Please know that I MISS you with my whole heart. I loved getting to know you while you were in the Springs AND I would love to still hang out with you in your new space too! Let me come to you. Show me around?

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Rocky Mountain Foothills Family Photography Session

This family photography session in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains was goals. Charlie, her mom, and Mitch traveled to Colorado for a spring break birthday trip for not only Charlie but also for Mitch. Kirsten wanted to document the authentic love their small family unit held.

Kirsten and Mitch have a story full of love lost and rediscovered. Mitch and Kirsten have known each other since they were teenagers. Even getting matching tattoos at some point in their past (scroll down, they are there in all their glory). Mitch has been in Charlie’s life for a while now and she wanted to document them in the space that they are in. Happy, healthy, and full of love for each other.

This family photography session in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains was goals. Charlie, her mom, and Mitch traveled to Colorado for a spring break birthday trip for not only Charlie but also for Mitch. Kirsten wanted to document the authentic love their small family unit held.

Kirsten and Mitch have a story full of love lost and rediscovered. Mitch and Kirsten have known each other since they were teenagers. Even getting matching tattoos at some point in their past (scroll down, they are there in all their glory). Mitch has been in Charlie’s life for a while now and she wanted to document them in the space that they are in. Happy, healthy, and full of love for each other.

Charlie is such a free little spirit. Wild with the wind but also shy and sensitive. She is a beautiful example of imagination and what it looks like to be loved by those around you. I remember when we did our video call (I schedule one with everyone that books a session with me), she was so lively, showing me all the fun things in her car. All I know is that she and her mama have a Harry Styles hanging air freshener and that’s good enough for me, haha.

I am over the moon happy for Kirsten and Charlie. They deserve all the love and care and devotion from someone who loves them fiercely. If you scroll down to the bottom of this post, I think you’ll find out that Mitch is calling that role his own. Congratulations friends. I am looking forward to seeing how your beautiful family combines and grows into something magnificent and strong.

Are you here on this blog post because you are thinking of working with a family photographer? Your session can be just what you want it to be, no matter your family dynamics or size. Let me hold your hand through picking the perfect location and wardrobe planning. My session guide is the perfect tool to really understanding what your session will be like and how we can work together to create a gallery that you will love your whole life.

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Weather Worries for Colorado Springs Family Sessions

Sweet friends and this mama’s hair give me life. We met up for their family session in one of my most chosen spots in Colorado Springs for some adventuring and snuggles. I can tell that all of Lesha’s boys love her to the moon and back. What a life to live.

I love when families take a break from their busy vacation life to spend some time with me documenting the love and authentic connections they share. This family came to visit me from Missouri and braved the cold Colorado air. Colorado can be unpredictable with the weather but there is one thing that I know, regardless of what the weather was the day before, there is a 90% chance that the next day will be sunny.

I know it seems like a funny thing to write a blog post about however, questions about the weather come through my inbox often. What do we do if it rains? If it snows? For my local families, this does not pose a big issue, most likely we can move your session date to a new date and roll with it. When I work with vacationing families and couples, that question becomes a tad bit more important.

Sweet friends and this mama’s hair give me life. We met up for their family session in one of my most chosen spots in Colorado Springs for some adventuring and snuggles. I can tell that all of Lesha’s boys love her to the moon and back. What a life to live.

I love when families take a break from their busy vacation life to spend some time with me documenting the love and authentic connections they share. This family came to visit me from Missouri and braved the cold Colorado air. Colorado can be unpredictable with the weather but there is one thing that I know, regardless of what the weather was the day before, there is a 90% chance that the next day will be sunny.

I know it seems like a funny thing to write a blog post about however, questions about the weather come through my inbox often. What do we do if it rains? If it snows? For my local families, this does not pose a big issue, most likely we can move your session date to a new date and roll with it. When I work with vacationing families and couples, that question becomes a tad bit more important.

We are lucky here in Colorado Springs. I live in a unique area that is considered a high desert. What does this mean? That we get a whole lot of sunshine and warm weather nearly every day. Is it warm all day? Nope. Not even close. Most days start off a bit chilly with a nice warm-up in the middle and then back to chilly in the evening. That means that we don’t keep much of the snow we get, it melts and soaks into the ground. Up in the mountains, the snow sticks around much longer but not down here. It’s perfect. It means that more than likely, even if we JUST had a snow storm, the weather for your session is going to be good enough to make it happen still. I love it here. Colorado, you are good to me. Friends, come see me, we can explore together!

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Rocky Mountain Newborn In-Home Photography Session

This sweet in-home newborn session was just what I needed last week. I had been waiting to meet Miss Liv for weeks as we needed to postpone their first scheduled session to allow this sweet girl to acclimate to her home at high elevation. I was so excited to hear that I was finally able to make the journey up to their Colorado mountain home and hang out with them and their sweet baby girl.

Canyons, mountain views, trees, water, and boulder areas pepper the lands around where Laura and David live, and I was in awe. My drive up and through the mountain also included cutting through one of the many burn scars left in our Colorado forest from recent wildfires. It was a quiet two-hour ride and it allowed me to reflect on many things as our minds tend to let us do when we are by ourselves wandering.

This sweet in-home newborn session was just what I needed last week. I had been waiting to meet Miss Liv for weeks as we needed to postpone their first scheduled session to allow this sweet girl to acclimate to her home at high elevation. I was so excited to hear that I was finally able to make the journey up to their Colorado mountain home and hang out with them and their sweet baby girl.

Canyons, mountain views, trees, water, and boulder areas pepper the lands around where Laura and David live, and I was in awe. My drive up and through the mountain also included cutting through one of the many burn scars left in our Colorado forest from recent wildfires. It was a quiet two-hour ride and it allowed me to reflect on many things as our minds tend to let us do when we are by ourselves wandering.

I love what I do. Truly and fully. I feel grateful to be allowed to enter into my clients’ lives and learn their stories. To adventure with them in the mountains and watch as they cuddle their little ones tight and squeal with laughter. Photographs are powerful mementos that show you proof, you were there. Mama that doesn’t get in the frame, you were there too. Let me give you something that you can tuck into your heart forever.

When you choose me to be your photographer, I want you to know, you are giving me the best gift anyone ever could. Trust and love. Soulfulness and joy. You fill my life with all the good things in the world and it feels good to know I have people like that around me and on my side.

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Sandy Patterson Sandy Patterson

Colorado Springs Micro Wedding at Fountain Creek Ranch

Hey friends! I am teaming up with my good friend Sarah of Vintage Violets Photography to document your authentic love during the Fountain Creek Ranch Micro Wedding Day, Sunday, May 16th, 2021. The Fountain Creek Ranch is a new wedding venue as of 2020 and offers their wedding couples an authentic Colorado ranch-style wedding complete with a western boho-style ranch house surrounded by beautiful pasture land on the Fountain Creek.

Believe me, I know, getting married can be a stressful adventure. There are so many moving pieces to pull together in order for it all to work out the way you intend. Having a micro wedding is becoming a popular choice for many reasons. Ease of planning, fewer formalities, easier on the pocketbook and more, are just a few of the justifications for having a micro wedding in lieu of a larger, more formal, wedding.

Hey friends! I am teaming up with my good friend Sarah of Vintage Violets Photography to document your authentic love during the Fountain Creek Ranch Micro Wedding Day, Sunday, May 16th, 2021. The Fountain Creek Ranch is a new wedding venue as of 2020 and offers their wedding couples an authentic Colorado ranch-style wedding complete with a western boho-style ranch house surrounded by beautiful pasture land on the Fountain Creek.

Believe me, I know, getting married can be a stressful adventure. There are so many moving pieces to pull together in order for it all to work out the way you intend. Having a micro wedding is becoming a popular choice for many reasons. Ease of planning, fewer formalities, easier on the pocketbook and more, are just a few of the justifications for having a micro wedding in lieu of a larger, more formal, wedding.

Sarah and I have had the pleasure of exploring both the house and the grounds at the Fountain Creek Ranch. Do you know what that means? We are in the β€œknow” with all the lovely spaces available at the ranch! Matt and his team over the ranch have overlooked nothing when creating their Micro Wedding Day Package. This is truly an all-inclusive micro wedding experience. The best part? You get to hang out with me and my girl Sarah as we document that authentic love you share with your partner and deliver a gallery of beautiful wedding images that you will truly love.

Fountain Creek Ranch is providing all of the things you need to get married for one price for a stress-free simple experience.

The Micro Wedding Day Package Includes:

UP TO 12 PEOPLE (BRIDE AND GROOM, AND 10 OF YOUR CLOSEST FAMILY AND FRIENDS)

2 HOUR ACCESS TO THE FOUNTAIN CREEK RANCH

20 MINUTE WEDDING CEREMONY WITH OUR OFFICIANT

40 MINUTE ALL-INCLUSIVE PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY COLLECTION

1 HOUR RECEPTION IN THE BEAUTIFUL PASTURE COURTYARD

PRIVATE DECORATED TABLE FOR 12

PERSONAL MINI WEDDING CAKE

CHAMPAGNE TOAST

HORS D'OEUVRES

MUSIC AND DANCE FLOOR FOR COUPLES' FIRST DANCE

YARD GAMES


All-Inclusive Photography Collection Includes:

20 MINUTE CEREMONY COVERAGE

20 MINUTE COUPLES SESSION

FULL GALLERY (30+) IMAGES

SLIDESHOW OF ENTIRE GALLERY

WEDDING QUESTIONNAIRE

PRE-WEDDING VIDEO CALL

LIFETIME BACKUP OF GALLERY

PROFESSIONAL PRINT OPTIONS

FULL REPRINTING RIGHTS


Space is limited to 20 couples for May 16th at the Fountain Creek Ranch located south of Colorado Springs off I-25. Fountain Creek Ranch and all vendors will be practicing COVID safe measures.

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Mentorship Sandy Patterson Mentorship Sandy Patterson

Professional Branding Session in Colorado Springs

Dawn reached out to me a few weeks back wanting to do a branding session for her new photography business, Dawn Autumn Photography with me. Dawn and I met when I look my kids to the Great Wolf Lodge a few years back. She was helping us with our time there and we got to chatting about photography. I gave her my card and we have stayed in touch since.

I have watched Dawn grow in her photography journey. Last year around this time, she booked a mentorship with me and we talked over technical things she was having trouble with, we ate some delicious pizza together, and then we photographed a beautiful family side by side. Afterward, we worked on some editing techniques and I have been in contact with Dawn on and off checking in on her and her growth.

Dawn reached out to me a few weeks back wanting to do a branding session for her new photography business, Dawn Autumn Photography with me. Dawn and I met when I look my kids to the Great Wolf Lodge a few years back. She was helping us with our time there and we got to chatting about photography. I gave her my card and we have stayed in touch since.

I have watched Dawn grow in her photography journey. Last year around this time, she booked a mentorship with me and we talked over technical things she was having trouble with, we ate some delicious pizza together, and then we photographed a beautiful family side by side. Afterward, we worked on some editing techniques and I have been in contact with Dawn on and off checking in on her and her growth.

Dawn is ready. She is ready to step out into the photography business world and put her name in the hat to do some amazing stuff! Her main focus is going to be still life and landscape photography with a little bit of portrait work in there every now and then. I support her and her goals and know she will do well.

Dawn, thank you for not only trusting me with providing you your photography mentorship but also for taking that dedicated leap into this wonderful world of entrepreneurship and documenting what your heart loves. I know you are going to do well and I can’t wait to keep watching it happen.

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Sandy Patterson Sandy Patterson

In-Home Newborn Session in Southern Colorado

This is my second time hanging out with Miss Addison, her mama, and her daddy. This time, however, she got to introduce me to her new baby brother, Hudson. I traveled down to Canon City, Colorado to document in their home now that Hudson had arrived with a Lifestyle Newborn Session.

When I walked up to their home, I knew I wanted to grab an item from nature nearby to incorporate into the session. I asked Sarah for some scissors and snipped a few branches from their pine tree in the front yard. I could hear Addison inside talking and when they opened the door she was very excited to show me around her home.

This is my second time hanging out with Miss Addison, her mama, and her daddy. This time, however, she got to introduce me to her new baby brother, Hudson. I traveled down to Canon City, Colorado to document in their home now that Hudson had arrived with a Lifestyle Newborn Session.

When I walked up to their home, I knew I wanted to grab an item from nature nearby to incorporate into the session. I asked Sarah for some scissors and snipped a few branches from their pine tree in the front yard. I could hear Addison inside talking and when they opened the door she was very excited to show me around her home.

When I arrive at a client’s home for their newborn session, I love to look around in all the rooms to find the best light. I might move things around as I did for this session in order to harness that beautiful light in the pockets I find. Don’t worry if you feel like your home doesn’t have β€œgreat light” like Sarah tried telling me. Girl! Your home has beautiful light in all the right places, so stop that noise right now! πŸ–€

Trusting me to come into your home is a big deal. I want to make sure that you know how much I appreciate your comfortability with me and also appreciate the authentic love I see between you and your people in your own space. Growing a family is special business. Family is what connects the world and keeps it going. Moments like these will forever be the pinnacles on which life stands.

Want to have me come hang out with you and your crew too? You can check out information on my newborn session via the button below. Come say hi!

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Sandy Patterson Sandy Patterson

The Importance of Extended Family Photography Sessions

This family traveled to Colorado Springs on vacation and met with me to have an extended family session. To get everyone together and document was so lovely and important. They take a vacation each year and decided that Colorado Springs would be perfect for them this time around.

I wish that when I was a kid and my family and I got together, that we did an extended family session like this. My mom has five sisters and I have 14 cousins. Each year when I was a little girl, most of us would travel to my aunt’s home in Ohio each year for Thanksgiving. I have a bunch of home photos but I can’t remember a time when we ever did a professional session like this.

These sweet humans traveled to Colorado Springs on vacation and met with me to have an extended family session. To get everyone together and document was so lovely and important. They take a vacation each year and decided that Colorado Springs would be perfect for them this time around.

I wish that when I was a kid and my family got together, we did an extended family session like this. My mom has five sisters and I have 14 cousins. Each year when I was a little girl, most of us would travel to my aunt’s home in Ohio for Thanksgiving. I have a bunch of home photos but I can’t remember a time when we ever did a professional session like this.

Looking back, I love those home taken photos but I think that there is just something extra special about everyone being in the frame at once. Enjoying each other’s company to the fullest and having someone else there to capture the authentic happiness a family has.

Sara, thank you for choosing me to show you your sweet family love. Thank you for trusting me with these heirloom images that your children will be able to look back on with joy when they are older. Thank you for reaching out and sharing your vision with m. Thank you for letting me bring it to life. I really appreciate you.

Friend, if you are here reading this and want to chat about your own extended family session, reach out. I am happy to help you craft a time together with me that will truly reflect the authentic nature of your family. Cousins laughing and playing. Mom/Dad (Grandma/Grandpa) watching over everything they created and you bridging that gap in between. Check out my family session information below. It talks a little about my process and what types of family collections I offer. See you soon!

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Sandy Patterson Sandy Patterson

Deployment Family Photography Session at Ute Valley Park

Clients book family sessions for a variety of reasons. To document birthdays, to celebrate other milestones, yearly updates to portraits for grandparents and family too. Living in a military town brings another reason to schedule a family session; deployment.

Vanessa’s husband is due to deploy soon and she wanted to document the authentic love their family shares one more time before he left for a few months. Documenting the love a family shares is so important, especially when you know you won’t see each other for an extended period of time. To have those images to look at while your loved one is far away, I can think of nothing more precious to hold in your hand.

Clients book family sessions for a variety of reasons. To document birthdays, to celebrate other milestones, yearly updates to portraits for grandparents and family too. Living in a military town brings another reason to schedule a family session; deployment.

Vanessa’s husband is due to deploy soon and she wanted to document the authentic love their family shares one more time before he left for a few months. Documenting the love a family shares is so important, especially when you know you won’t see each other for an extended period of time. To have those images to look at while your loved one is far away, I can think of nothing more precious to hold in your hand.

To prepare for their time with me, Vanessa and her sweet daughter took a trip to my home to try on some of the clothing that I have in my client closet. She also brought over clothing for the rest of her family and I helped her create a color and texture palette that worked well for the location they picked and time of year. Needless to say, they looked so good during their session! Clothing doesn’t always make or break a session but it certainly helps to create a vibe that fits the family perfectly.

Do you think it would be helpful for me to help you and your family create the perfect wardrobe for your time with me? Everyone who books with me gets exclusive access to not only my online wardrobe styling service through Style and Select, they also get to browse through the boho styled clothing I have in my client closet. I have dresses for mama and her sweet girls, rompers, and overalls for the boys, and a little bit of everything in between for styling the whole fam bam. Let’s connect and let me help ease the stress of what to wear!

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Sandy Patterson Sandy Patterson

Downtown Colorado Springs Siblings Photography Session

Emily and Eli, you two are the sweetest humans and I am so glad that you picked me to document your sibling love. Eli is my daughter, Emma’s best friend. Eli is so special to me, like my own child. Can I be your surrogate mama? You can’t say no. These two peeps have got this siblinghood thing down. I mean, you cannot look through this gallery and tell me that they don’t like each other. More smiling and laughs than going to the damn amusement park.

Emily had been wanting to schedule something with Eli for a while and my daughter finally sent me a β€œbusiness inquiry” for Emily, haha. I was totally down and we made it happen. I don’t typically shoot downtown Colorado Springs but this really fits them and their personalities to a T. It was perfect, just like them. Thanks for sharing your rawness with me. Your joy with me. Yourselves with me. I love you both with all my heart.

Emily and Eli, you two are the sweetest humans and I am so glad that you picked me to document your sibling love. Eli is my daughter, Emma’s best friend. Eli is so special to me, like my own child. Can I be your surrogate mama? You can’t say no. These two peeps have got this siblinghood thing down. I mean, you cannot look through this gallery and tell me that they don’t like each other. More smiling and laughs than going to the damn amusement park.

Emily had been wanting to schedule something with Eli for a while and my daughter finally sent me a β€œbusiness inquiry” for Emily, haha. I was totally down and we made it happen. I don’t typically shoot downtown Colorado Springs but this really fits them and their personalities to a T. It was perfect, just like them. Thanks for sharing your rawness with me. Your joy with me. Yourselves with me. I love you both with all my heart.

Thinking of booking a photographer to document the love you have for your sibling(s)? I am your girl! I want to take you on an adventure that allows you to open up and be yourself. I want to document the authentic bond you share and give you a gallery that you can look at for the rest of your lives and know that it was true. Send me a message? Click the button below to drop me a line. Let’s chat and connect and make all the things happen!

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Sandy Patterson Sandy Patterson

Extended Family Photography Session at Garden of the Gods

Steven, Brandon, and Brandon’s family came down from Denver to spend an afternoon with me at Garden of the Gods for an extended family photography session near Christmas time. This session was super important to Steven and Brandon for multiple reasons.

Brandon’s grandfather had passed away and he did not have many photos with him, so capturing images with his grandmother was special and important to him. Steven and Brandon were also celebrating their 5 year wedding anniversary as well as being together for 10 years. I was so honored to be chosen to be the one who got to take this journey with them.

Steven, Brandon, and Brandon’s family came down from Denver to spend an afternoon with me at Garden of the Gods for an extended family photography session near Christmas time. This session was super important to Steven and Brandon for multiple reasons.

Brandon’s grandfather had passed away and he did not have many photos with him, so capturing images with his grandmother was special and important to him. Steven and Brandon were also celebrating their 5 year wedding anniversary as well as being together for 10 years. I was so honored to be chosen to be the one who got to take this journey with them.

Their family was so full of love and grace and laughter. At one moment during their session, while admiring Brandon’s hair, I asked what the line in his haircut was called….he looked me dead in the eye and said, β€œa part?” I died. Haha. I laughed…and felt a tad embarrassed. Steven and Brandon were so lovely to me and I am thankful for their love. Guys, thank you for letting me be the one to show you the love you have. It means the world to me.

Do you have an anniversary coming up? Engaged? Just want to get some updated photos with your sweet love? Let me help? You can get couples and engagement session info via the button below. Looking for a family session or something else? Scroll to the bottom of the page and click the button there. I can’t wait to hear from you!

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