Richardson Photography Longview Kelso Kalama Castle Rock Washington

{Family} Longview Washington Family Portraiture

2011-12-30T14:57:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful surprise it was to be able to do family photos for a friend from high school whom I haven't seen in about ten years! I was honored when she asked me to do this as a gift for her parents. It was stormy most of the day, but the weather gave us a little break and we had a great time.

It was wonderful to see you again! Here are your "teasers!" :-)

{Saturday Minis} Longview Washington Family Photography

2011-11-29T15:06:00.000-08:00

This next preview shows perfectly just what you can get out of a 30-minute mini-session, and this stylish family was the ideal example of what to wear! I just LOVED their taste in colors and clothing, not to mention their relaxed and fun approach that gave these photos such a warm and fuzzy feeling. It made my job so easy!

Enjoy!

{A Tribute to Amazing Dads} Kelso Washington Family Photography

2011-11-12T14:43:00.000-08:00

I've said it before and I will say it again, I thrive on and live for 'just because' sessions. The kind of thing where several wonderful moments in life all happen to come together at once and, with grace and minimal effort, allow me to capture the stunning and unique bond between humans in their everyday moments.

With all the struggles and uncertainty in life, it is so refreshing and inspiring to see such unwavering loyalty and determination in fathers who put their children first, do what's moral and right (although not always easy), and show the kind of affection that their sons and daughters deserve. These photos warm my heart and make me smile. I wish the two of you untold blessings and happiness in your adventures to come.

If you have an amazing dad in your life, don't forget to tell him how much you love him, 'just because.'

{Three} Kelso Washington Family Photography

2011-11-02T16:01:00.000-07:00

This mama is Auntie to miss Kenzi (see previous post) and we had a blast in this last splash of October sunshine folllowing the newborn session!

I know I've said it before, but I just adore this family. These boys are so sweet, and the closeness and love between these three can easily be seen in the photos. You guys are gorgeous! Enjoy your preview!

Okay so not every shot turns out picture perfect...this one cracks me up!

{Kenzi Lynn} Kelso Washington Newborn Portraiture

2011-11-02T12:38:00.000-07:00

I have been photographing this family for awhile now, and I was BEYOND excited to do this newborn session for their latest addition, Kenzi Lynn.

She was the most perfect little model, and it just gives me warm fuzzies to see my little buddy, Grant, fall into the role of big brother!

An amazing family, and another amazing session with them. I just love you guys to death!!! Congratulations on your beautiful baby girl!

~Krista~

{H Family Kiddos!} Longview Washington Childeren's Portraiture

2011-10-27T14:53:00.000-07:00

I just LOVE everything about this family and how these photos turned out! Working with such amazing kiddos just makes me adore what I do! We were blessed with a dry afternoon for some perfect outdoor fall photos. It was so much fun for me, playing in the leaves with you guys! I hope you fall in love with these as much as I have!

Get in on my day of mini sessions at this location, Saturday November 26th all day. See previous post, follow me on Facebook, or give me a call to book!

This next one just cracked me up! What are big brothers for, anyway? lol

Fall Minis Are Here!

2011-10-24T15:41:00.000-07:00

Okay, so now that I have coordinated my schedule for the next month, and back by popular demand, here are the details for fall mini-sessions!!! Hurry to get in on this one-day-only special. Time slots listed below. Payment due in full to hold your spot. All images (or prints you order thereafter) will be returned before the holidays for your use. This is the deadline, however, so be sure to book now!

Good for babies, kids, families, and seniors! No restrictions!

Morning:

9:45

10:30

11:15

Afternoon:

12:15

1:00

1:45

2:30

3:15

{Reunion} Kelso Washington Family Photography

2011-09-21T19:11:00.000-07:00

I have done photographs for some in this family before, and I was so tickled that they chose me to photograph their entire family together at once! I got to meet everyone, finally, and it was a blast! The rain held off and it all went so smoothly at one of my favorite locations to shoot! Yay!

Thanks again and enjoy your sneak peek!

Sorry, guys, I just had to add this one...it was too hilarious! (brothers, just in case you were wondering.)

{Lilly Jo} Kelso Washington Newborn Portraiture

2011-09-19T22:13:00.000-07:00

Say hello to Lillian Jo...the most cooperative baby I have ever worked with! This little cutie slept the entire time, and barely made any protest as we did all sorts of crazy things to get these adorable photos!

A big congratulations to her proud parents and big brother, Gavin. Thank you so much for choosing me to be a part of this special time in your life!

{Amy and Austin} Astoria Oregon Wedding Photography

2011-09-15T16:05:00.000-07:00

All I can say as I upload this preview is WOW. This was one of the most beautiful weddings I've ever done. Great city, beautiful weather, wonderful people, and an amazing venue.

The day started out a bit stressful, to say the least. There was an accident that shut down the highway on our way there, causing delays for us, the flowers, the food... but in spite of it all things turned out pretty perfect after a little flexibility (which is always a great thing to have on your wedding day! lol)

Thank you SO much for choosing me to be your photograher. And a big thank you once again to my partner in crime, Larissa, for some amazing shots!

{Amanda=16!} Longview Washington Special Occasion Photography

2011-08-06T14:19:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of doing family photos for these wonderful people last winter. Amanda just turned 16 and we did a just because session last weekend so she will always remember this time in her life! What fun! Thank you for hiring me again and enjoy your preview!

{Expecting...two!} Longview Washington Maternity and Family Portraiture

2011-08-05T15:25:00.000-07:00

We're very good friends and cousins by marriage to this lovely family, I did a maternity session for their first little one, Sean, and he was born two days later (the day I found out I was pregnant with my little one!) Crazy story for another day...lol. So needless to say when we found out they were having twins we couldn't believe it and were SO excited! Two more little boys, and I cannot wait to do their newborn session. Congratulations! Love you guys and hope you love your pics!

{The H Family} Longview Washington Family Photography

2011-08-05T13:55:00.000-07:00

I am so thrilled with the images from this session! I have known Mrs. H since I was twelve years old, and I know I've said it before, but it's always so special when I can reunite with old friends and have a part in preserving precious memories for their families. On top of that, all of the elements were perfect last weekend; the weather, the location, and the natural, relaxed approach they had to their session. I hope you love your images as much as I do! Thank you so much for the privilege! :-)

{Allister & Maddox} Kelso Washington Twin Photography

2011-07-29T10:59:00.000-07:00

Wow! I was SO excited to have the adorable Allister and Maddox into my studio for their very first session! Double the fun for sure! These little guys were so amazing, putting up with my antics to get just the right pose while sneaking a few snuggles in between. A big congratulations to the family for these little blessings! Enjoy your sneak peek!

Print packages for friends and family (individual print pricing under "boutique" tab above). Please contact me personally to order the collections below:

{Kevin and Jaime} Kelso Washington Boutique Maternity Portraiture

2011-07-28T15:53:00.000-07:00

What a gorgeous couple! Here are a few from their session this past weekend. Thank you for having me as your photographer and I can't wait to meet that little one next month!

{Brad and Danielle-July 9, 2011} Longview Washington Wedding Photography

2011-07-19T18:11:00.000-07:00

So, when I say prepare for total image overload, I mean it this time! I'm sorry! I can't control myself sometimes on my previews!

So many of you probably already know that I went to school with Danielle, we lost touch, and then recently found each other again shortly before she got engaged to the wonderful Brad! I was so excited to be a part of her day in such a wonderful way. The wedding was beautiful and emotionally touching with the joining of two families with children. (You're not supposed to make the photographer cry! Thanks a lot guys!)

I was thrilled to be able to be there from the time she put her dress on all the way until the party was winding down. It's such a feeling of completeness to be able to cover the event from start to finish! My favorite!

I wish you forever and ever of happiness and love! Enjoy your preview!

Remember, family and friends can order directly from me! The packages listed below include digital images! Special requests welcome! Call me to order: 360.751.7289

New print package options!

2011-07-08T08:38:00.000-07:00

After being asked several times at weddings how to order prints, I have added these packages to my ordering options for friends and family to include a few digital files and save some money! Can also be applied to portrait sessions! Please contact me personally to order. 360.751.7289

{Kortlynn-Twelve Days New} Kelso Washington Outdoor Newborn Photography

2011-07-07T14:24:00.000-07:00

I have been photographing this amazing family for over a year, and I had the privilege of welcoming baby number four-the beautiful Kortlynn-with an outdoor/indoor newborn session. I couldn't help but wanna kiss those perfect, rosy little lips! Check her out and leave a comment for her proud parents!

{Tabitha + Jason, June 25 2011} Castle Rock Wedding Photography

2011-06-30T09:31:00.000-07:00

I met Tabitha for the first time as a bridesmaid...now she's a bride! You won't find a greater sweetness than this. Their wedding was earthy, simple, and joyful, and the love between them just radiated.

A big congratulations to the two...I'm sad you will be so far away when you return home, but thank you for choosing me as your photographer here! Don't forget to share this link and leave some comment love for the happy couple! :-)

Thanks to my second shooter, Larissa, for rocking this shot below (among many others)!

Once the entire album is online, I offer the following print packages for friends and family interested in ordering. Please contact me for payment options and details! 360.751.7289

{Catching up!} Southwest Washington Family and Senior Photography

2011-06-22T22:12:00.000-07:00

Well, it's that time of year! Last minute senior sessions, family sessions, and finally some nicer weather...it has been so busy around here I've barely had time to blog, traveling all the way from Olympia to Battleground. So needless to say, I'm behind on my previews. In the name of saving some time and space, I am posting a few of my favorites from the last couple of weeks in one big post! Thank you, thank you to everyone for keeping me so busy! Now bring on the weddings! :-)

Emmalyse, Olympia Washington Senior Photogrpahy

Daren, Brandy, and Kiddos - 10 Year Anniversary (can't you tell by the first pic? lol)

AJ, Brittany, and Ryland - One Year/Family Session

Chris, Kelli, Grant, and Baby Girl! - Mini Maternity Session

And last but not least...

(This makes me smile...a lot! This is my little one. I guess this is what I look like when I'm working! lol)

{Wayne + Tina = Married!!!} Skamokawa Washington Wedding Photography

2011-05-23T15:10:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of doing a few photos for some friends of ours at their wedding this past weekend. There was such beauty in the simplicity of their day. A simple ceremony on the beach, good food, and great friends. The setting was absolutely splendid; the filtered light through the clouds, the wildflowers in bloom, and the obvious love between the two. I'm so glad I could be there for you as you have been for us, and I hope you love your pics as much as I do!

{Family} Longview Kelso Washington Family Photography

2011-05-23T10:44:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you've heard me say it before, but I LOVE 'just because' sessions. There should never have to be a special occasion to get some great family portraits. And when you look back, you will realize that it was a special occasion in itself; getting dressed up, gathering the family together, and driving to a beautiful outdoor location and having some fun! (Yes, I said FUN! I will never make getting your photos taken a painful thing! We laugh and goof off and make it fun!)

Call today to book your session, $175/ One Hour / Disc of 20-30 images + printing rights!

360.751.7289

This session was just that; this family has been following my fanpage for awhile, and decided it was just time to do it! Yay! Thank you for choosing me and enjoy your sneak peek!

{Summer's Cookie Lee} Kelso Washington Business and Commercial Photography

2011-05-19T09:19:00.000-07:00

We had a little Cookie Lee Jewelry party at my studio last Friday, and what fun! My friend Summer is kicking off her business with some great hostess gifts. Check out her facebook page or her website and get in on the fun! The jewelry is great quality, affordable, and has something for every woman's taste.

If you're interested in a business or commercial photo package, call me today! 360.751.7289

{Sugar and Spice...} Kelso Washington Child and Family Photography

2011-05-12T09:43:00.000-07:00

I just LOVE it when I become a family's photographer. From the wedding day to the babies and beyond, I get the privilege of being involved in the milestones in life, and the "just because" sessions.

And when there are 5 kiddos involved, there is ALWAYS a reason to take some pictures! During this session and while editing, that saying "Sugar and spice and everything nice, that's what girls are made of..." kept running through my head. Destry turned seven over the weekend, and she is the picture of girliness!

We have all become very good friends, and this was one of the most enjoyable sessions I've done in a long time. We got caught in a DOWNPOUR, and while threatening that they buy me a new camera if anything should happen (lol just joking), I took my chances and kept shooting as she played in the rain. And as you can see from the photos, it was worth every raindrop!

I love you Destry girl...you are beautiful in every way and you made me feel like a kid again!

{Brothers} Kelso Washington Children's Portraiture

2011-05-09T18:22:00.000-07:00

These little boys were such a treasure! I've known their mom for awhile and we were finally able to schedule a special session just for them! I was beyond excited about the colors they chose to wear (killer shoes mama!), the setting, and the falling petals that we ran across in the middle of town! Enjoy your preview!

{Brysen is one!} Kelso Washington Baby Photography

2011-05-09T18:07:00.000-07:00

This big blue-eyed little one melted my heart! In his little camo overalls and huge pinchable cheeks, I couldn't help but steal a few cuddles from this one in between frames! Thank you so much for bringing him in!

{You are my I Love You} Kelso Washington Lifestyle Photography

2011-05-06T10:31:00.000-07:00

You can never fully understand the bond between parent and child until you experience it. I can say this because I am now a mother, and have never known a greater love.

Maybe this is why I still cry when magically, in front of my lens, I am ever so humbly able to capture a glimpse into the complex relationships of others. Why I tear up at diaper commercials and silly little greeting cards. And I anticipate that no matter how old your child becomes, you still see them as your babies and hear their giggles down the hall.

I was standing in Barnes and Noble the other day browsing. I came across a little book called "You are my I Love You." Talk about embarrassing when suddenly I found myself standing there with tears streaming down my face, about to drop my coffee and books while scrambling for a tissue. Needless to say, I came home with it, snuggled up on the couch, and read it to my little one. And I hope someday she will read it to her children and think of me.

I am your parent, you are my child

I am your quiet place, you are my wild

I am your calm face, you are my giggle

I am your wait, you are my wiggle

I am your audience, you are my clown

I am your London Bridge, you are my falling down

I am your carrot sticks, you are my licorice

I am your dandelion, you are my first wish

I am your water wings, you are my deep

I am your open arms, you are my running leap

I am your way home, you are my new path

I am your dry towel, you are my wet bath

I am your dinner, you are my chocolate cake

I am your bedtime, you are my wide awake

I am your finish line, you are my race

I am your praying hands, you are my saving grace

I am your favourite book, you are my new lines

I am your nightlight, you are my sunshine

I am your lullaby, you are my peek-a-boo

I am your kiss goodnight, you are my I love you

Amy, I hope I haven't imposed too much on your preview, but your love inspires me. :-)

{Morgan} Longview Washington Senior Portraits

2011-05-02T16:28:00.000-07:00

I met this lovely lady's family a couple of months ago for a mini-session, and we started planning her senior portraits right away. She knew she wanted some out at the tulip gardens in Woodland, and although the weather made us wait a little longer than expected, the day turned out to be a glorious one and the flowers were gorgeous!

( don't worry I have this one in color too! ;-) )

{absolutely!} Clackamas Oregon Wedding Photography

2011-04-13T08:52:00.000-07:00

Where do I begin? My littlest brother is married! Aside from feeling a bit old, I am beyond excited to have blended families with some of the most amazing people ever. It was quite a different thing to be Photographer, Sister, and Mommy all at the same time, but I managed to pull off both (I think...maybe you should ask them! lol), but not without much help from everyone, especially Gramma and Grampa and Aunt Stefanie.

So since it's my site and I can do whatever I wanna (neener neener), I will now post WAY too many photos of the day. I can't help myself! I will have some notes along the way to help tell the story, but the photos do a pretty good job of letting you see our true colors. ;-)

Seeing her for the first time...

Details

Wind...a photographer's best friend. (note the sarcasm) Worked out with these, though. ;)

I snuck in for one, still in work clothes lol

Kudos to the best second shooter ever for the shot below! Love you babe! ;-)

She accidentally said "absolutely" instead of "I do" and then got all embarrassed...it was perfect!

Photo on left: Leah has started this thing where she puts her finger on her chin and says, "Hmmm, chicken..." lolol. Right: One of four I ended up in!

Giant family photo of both sides, his and hers. A lot of hers was missing, though, so it's mostly our huge clan! A big thank you to the fellow photographer attending who volunteered to help out with this one! (if you're family wanting a copy, follow the contact form above and specify color or black and white and I will e-mail it to you!)

{marvelous} Portland Oregon Wedding Dress Shopping!

2011-03-28T14:53:00.000-07:00

I love these girls. I grew up with them and they are like sisters to me. Did I mention they kinda are my sisters now? (in-law...lol) Anyway, that's another story for another day.

Sara is getting married! You can follow their hilarious blog, Marvelously Mediocre, HERE.

They hired me to document this special day; Sara was surprised with a trip home to pick out her gown with her mama and sister. I had the privilege of tagging along and doing some work for them that will be featured in Wedding Guide of Alaska as they document this wonderful journey.

Needless to say, in the name of hiding the 'real' dress from the groom's eyes, I had to be selective in the photos I posted. But yes, she did find 'the' dress and it was NOT 'marvelously mediocre!' It was stunning!

The "interview"...lol it was intense!

Mama getting a little sentimental...;)

I had to post this one...the look on her face was so precious when she realized this was her dress. Aww...

Congratulations, Sara, I love you!

{please excuse our dust}

2011-03-27T20:54:00.000-07:00

I am in the process of trying to combine my website/blog into one awesome place. It will simplify my life and my approach. In the meantime, please dismiss anything that looks odd or doesn't work...lol. It will be fixed soon. ;)

-Krista

{twice is nice} Kelso Washington Senior Portrait Photographer

2011-03-20T22:04:00.000-07:00

This pretty little lady chose me to do her senior portraits - twice! This was especially fun. We did a session at the end of last summer (see the session here) when the sun was hot and her hair was long! She knew she was going to cut it, so we totally went for a before/after kind of thing with the two shoots. This weekend's session was incredible; so modern and sleek with her new look. Mariah, you're gorgeous inside and out!

{grateful}

2011-03-17T09:38:00.000-07:00

So I've been doing this "Project Gratitude" album on Facebook to try and stay positive and look for something I'm grateful for each day. I've been feeling guilty for falling behind and not posting every day (which was not the point of the project!) Maybe it's partially because I'm not as grateful as I should be, but mostly because I've been so insanely busy lately.

On Tuesday I drove to Hoquiam for a volunteer project. It was a dreary day. And when I say dreary, I mean dreary! On the way home it was raining buckets on the narrow roads and bridges along highway 12. I was exhausted. Before I headed home, I grabbed some coffee and lunch and put in my new Lucinda Williams CD and cranked it up. I was driving and listening and pondering her matchless ability to write lyrics that penetrate your heart. I drove through this area of low-lying farmland that was flooded from the recent rains. I thought, "man I'm glad I don't live down there!"

I was listening to the words of "Copenhagen:"

But you, have disappeared

You have been released

You are flecks of light

You are missed

Somewhere, spinning round the sun

Circling the moon

Traveling through time

You are missed

Then it hit me.

My mind was instantly flooded with images I've seen of the disaster in Japan; people's homes completely under water and utterly destroyed. Entire towns gone; families ripped apart. Little babies like my own found alive after two days in the rubble. Exposure to radiation, contamination, and hypothermia.

I suddenly felt much more grateful for what I have. So I pulled over to the side of the road and snapped this photo to remind me that it's all about your perspective. You may feel that each day is a dreary journey of survival. Sometimes it may be. But don't forget that, like the title of Lucinda's new album, we are "blessed" in many ways that others are not. We cannot forget that.

{Love} Longview Washington Outdoor Engagement Photography

2011-03-10T08:48:00.000-08:00

A real estate agent for Prudential Northwest Properties, I have known Aman through business networking over the last few months, and I was thrilled when he asked me to do engagement photos for he and his fiancee. We headed to the lake for an outdoor mini-session, and it was fantastic! The weather was perfect and we had a blast. Enjoy your preview! :)

{Five} Kelso Washington Children's Portraiture

2011-03-03T10:53:00.000-08:00

I felt so honored that this guy's mama came into town all the way from the coast to have me photograph her son. He was one of the most polite, handsome, and joyful little boys I have ever met!

{The "B" Family} Kelso Washington Family Portrait Photographer

2011-02-22T10:13:00.000-08:00

What a charming family I got to work with over the weekend! Such polite, fun kiddos. We met up in Kelso at a couple of different locations for some 'just because' family photos. I'm looking forward to miss "M"'s senior session next month! Thank you for choosing me as your photographer! Here's your sneak peek! ;)

{Two months} Longview Kelso Washington Baby Photography

2011-02-20T21:11:00.000-08:00

"Cute" does not even begin to describe this little guy. Each baby I photograph captures my heart, and with each one I always say, "no, THIS was the cutest one so far..." lol, I guess I just love them all too much! Little Navin and his mama and daddy were a joy and reminded me once again of why I love my job. Enjoy your preview!

"Grrr..." rofl!

{Mr. & Mrs. H} Longview Washington Anniversary Photography

2011-01-31T19:56:00.000-08:00

I may be a bit partial to the photo thing, but more couples in this world should treat themselves to a custom photography session for no other reason than you're in love and you want to. You don't need a special reason (although how appropriate if you have one!) to want to document a piece of your love and your life together.

Call 360.751.7289 soon to book your own session!

I have known this couple for fifteen years and they are just wonderful. They totally deserved to do this for themselves, and happy anniversary! :)

{Love...} Portland and Clatskanie Oregon Engagement Photography

2011-01-23T12:12:00.000-08:00

Let me just start by saying I love the city. And I love my family. So, these two things will explain why you are going to experience image overload on this blog preview. My baby brother is getting married in April, and for something fresh and romantic, we headed to the city for their engagement session. I am in LOVE LOVE LOVE with how their images turned out, and because he's my family (and this is my blog so I can do whatever I want!), I am posting more images than I normally do for a sneak peek. I love you guys and hope you love your photos as much as I do! :-)

Friends and family: Please feel free to use this page to leave your feedback, love, and congrats to the happy couple!

{Sisters} Kelso Washington Children's Photography

2011-01-21T08:29:00.000-08:00

These beautiful young ladies are our cousin's kiddos...I bribed their mom with pictures in return for babysitting! Yay! Each time I point my camera at these girls I am amazed at their adorableness (is that a word?) and especially how miss V seems like such an old soul. I have no doubt that they are going to grow up to be something very special!

Miss L

Miss V

{"One" more...} Longview Kelso Washington Children's Photographer

2011-01-16T11:50:00.000-08:00

I was blessed with two one year sessions this week, and this little guy happens to be one of my closest friend's youngest. He was quite the escape artist, and has already been walking for awhile now. We had so much fun! Enjoy your preview!

{One} Kelso Washington Baby and Children's Photography

2011-01-13T09:04:00.000-08:00

How quickly they grow! The "H" Kids session last May was on of the first in my studio, and little Kennedi is now one and got her very own session! I think I may have mentioned this before, but just in case some of you don't know...I happen to LOVE my job. I get to snuggle cute little babies, play with kiddos, and get paid for it! :)

Here are my favorites:

And this was just too cute too not throw in there...I took this as we were getting re-acquainted. :)

{Boutique Photography} Kelso Washington Maternity, Newborn, and Children's Portraiture

2011-01-06T12:34:00.000-08:00

I have been so absolutely thrilled to have a studio location for the first time this winter. When I opened up last May, I had an idea of what I wanted to do with the space, but as the months have progressed I have fallen into a niche that I have grown to love. I will still be offering my services for weddings and on-location photography, but I hope to be increasing awareness of my studio and focusing more on this aspect of my business. So here's a little blurb about it: ;)

I share a space at LaFavorites, a great little knitting boutique and coffee shop in Kelso. The room upstairs is small and charming and has proven to work perfectly for intimate, unique photo sessions for maternity, newborn, and children's portraiture. I have fallen in love with each precious little baby I have been privileged to photograph. I have become almost obsessed with finding strange and unusual things when I shop. I end up thinking, "can I put a baby in/on/around/under that?" lol...safety first! :)

So, I guess I am blogging about this because I have become so passionate about it and excited to offer something different to our community, and I want to extend an invitation to anyone interested to give me a call to come meet me, check out LaFavorites (a hidden gem in my opinion!), and tour my space upstairs. When you enter, you will not find huge, harsh panels of light or blinding flashes. I use soft, natural lighting and I avoid the cheesy, typical studio props. I view each accessory I purchase as a tool that will enable me to create a unique portrait of your precious child that you will be eager to hang on your wall.

All January bookings will include a complimentary 8x10.

Newborn sessions start at $200

All other portrait sessions are $150

All packages include ALL of your digital images with a print release.

Call soon to book. 360.751.7289

Just a few images from the past few months:

{The great outdoors...} Southwest Washington Family Photography

2011-01-01T21:20:00.000-08:00

Marie is a good friend of mine, and I was so excited when she asked me to do photos for their family. As a gift to their parents for their anniversary, the whole family was able to get together for the week and do something special...this was the first time they have ever had their photos professionally done! I have to say I feel very special to be their first experience with custom photography.

As you can see from the preview, we took a LOT of pictures and had a LOT of fun. :) I couldn't possibly post all of the wonderful and interesting shots we got (i.e., a dog in a tree...maybe I'll add that one later! lol), but here are some of my favorites! Enjoy!

{Time to breathe, or rather, recover...} Some personal time for your Kelso Washington Custom Photographer

2010-12-29T11:05:00.000-08:00

So...

We'd been planning this trip to Maui for almost a year. I got all of my affairs in order, caught up with client orders before the holidays, and starting December 10th I would officially be taking some time off in Paradise...or so I thought.

The trip didn't go quite as planned. Our 17 month old ended up sick the majority of the trip which resulted in more time indoors than in the sun, missed dinner cruises, puked-on evening dress (same dress...TWO different nights of our three attempts for a romantic evening out). The flight home experienced some "mechanical issues" that they didn't want to be honest with us about, so half way home we turned around and went to Honolulu. Instead of getting home at 8 pm on Sunday night, it was 4:30 Monday morning. Screaming baby. Trapped in a plane for almost 14 hours.

So...

We had ONE perfect night there, the very last night. Found an awesome restaraunt, ate steak and lobster in our swimsuits because "we deserve it!!!", and then went for a moonlight swim and sipped Island 808 Pineapple Orange Guava vodka under a full moon. I would like to take this opportunity to say THANK YOU and I LOVE YOU SO MUCH to my wonderful in-laws that were so willing to take turns with a sick baby. To Amber for taking some great pictures of us and letting me play with your camera (hehe). You will always inspire me in your strength and beauty.

Needless to say, it wasn't the adventure in paradise that we had planned, but we did make some great memories, some great pictures, and learned how to change our perspective on the situation. I said all along, "I'd rather be cleaning up puke under the Hawaiian sun than in the rain in Kelso." lol...so here's a slideshow of some of our fun times!

{Danielle + Brad} Longview Washington Engagement Photography

2010-12-07T11:43:00.000-08:00

This was a very special session for me. Dani and I went to high school together and lost touch after graduation. We saw each other a few rare times over the years and recently we found each other through Facebook. Good timing, because this sweet gal found quite the catch and is now engaged! I'm shooting their wedding in July and couldn't be happier! Congratulations Brad and Danielle...you guys are just about the cutest things ever and I know you'll live happily everafter! :)

{Just Because...} Kelso Washington Couples Photography

2010-11-28T11:45:00.000-08:00

My hubby works with this beautiful lady, and we finally ended up getting together for a 'Just Because' session. To me, these are sometimes the very best and sweetest ones.

We had a wonderful time shooting at one of my favorite locations, and the rain held off until the last 5 minutes! Woo hoo! I apologize for the image overload on this preview, but you guys were just too cute to narrow it down any more! :) It was an honor...enjoy your preview!

{Let it snow...} Rainier, Oregon Family Photography

2010-11-23T16:42:00.000-08:00

Ah...so as I was editing these photos, my Pandora station quietly played, "What a Wonderful World." The snow is still outside my window, and the house smells of pie and chicken. Mmm...

Well enough about my evening!

I love this family. I think they have adopted me as their family photographer, and I couldn't be more tickled about that! I have done photos for their daughter and their niece. So this time it was them, the other daughter, grandkids, and SNOW! Oh yeah, and an awesome red tractor...

{Harper} Longview Washington Newborn Photography

2010-11-21T20:47:00.000-08:00

I did this mama's maternity session just about three weeks ago, and needless to say I was so happy to finally meet the little peanut!

So when I say this teeny weeny gal was all smiles, I mean ALL SMILES. She was the cutest thing ever, and when she'd fall asleep she'd just start grinning like crazy. I can't believe how many smiling shots I got. Here are just a few!

The teacup is becoming a popular request. :)

I'm not sure why, but this one below is one of my favorites!

{Payten Rae} Southwest Washington Newborn Photographer

2010-11-08T22:01:00.000-08:00

This sweet little girl could not have been more perfect for our session. She was such a beautiful baby, it made my job easy! I had the privilege of photographing her mama in the past, and the privilege of watching families grow and lives change never gets old! Enjoy your preview and a big congrats on the birth of your precious daughter!

{Expecting} Southwest Washington Maternity Portraiture

2010-11-08T16:51:00.000-08:00

I have known this gorgeous mama for many years and could not have asked for a more beautiful belly...such a stunning session! This preview is just a glimpse of how this lovely, intimate session went. I hope you enjoy your preview and get to meet that little angel very soon!

{Mariah} Longview Washington Senior Portrait Photography

2010-09-28T16:22:00.000-07:00

I have known this beautiful girl most of her life, and I had the wonderful honor of being her photographer last night for her senior portraits. I am in love with these photos...probably my favorite Senior session to date. You'd never know by the photos that she was a bit shy at first...these could be in a magazine! Congratulations, Mariah, on all that you're accomplishing during your Senior year. Treasure every moment!

New Wedding Site

2010-09-26T11:57:00.000-07:00

I'm gearing up for a very busy October, and with the new season comes a few changes! I have a new site dedicated especially for weddings. Go to the main page and click on "Wedding Site" to check it out!

Also, be on the lookout for October events, new products, albums, folios, and brag books, and even free portraits at the lake! Woo hoo! http://www.richardsonpix.com/

{Rainy Day Fun} Southwest Washington Family Photography

2010-09-21T20:27:00.000-07:00

So, last Saturday it said "chance of showers." Really? In spite of the rain (pouring buckets by the time this session was over), I am so pleased with how these turned out. I photographed this beautiful family last year, and how time flies! Already time for family pictures again. Thank you so much for your patience and fun spirit...this was truly a wonderful rainy day session. Enjoy!

{Maghan & JaRoddo} Kelso Washington Anniversary Photography

2010-09-19T10:19:00.000-07:00

For some of you that have been following my Facebook, you are aware that my daughter and I were in a car accident last month. We're okay, but it has sparked a whole mess of paperwork, chiropractor visits, and car shopoping. So after an insane, stessful month, I am finally catching up on some blogging!

Last month we had some dear friends visit us from Shreveport, LA. It was their anniversary so I couldn't help but give them the gift of a custom photo session! These two are truly the most joyful couple to be around. Amazing people and amazing friends to have kept in touch over such a long distance. Enjoy your preview and I will have something very special for you in the mail soon! :)

{Kodiak} Kelso Washington Pet Photographer

2010-08-26T09:41:00.000-07:00

Some clients tug at my heart strings more than others...Mr. Kodiak was one of those! This Corgi made my week. He was such a mellow and happy puppy, and we ended up fast friends by the end of the session (as you can see by the last picture...he decided to come snuggle me!)

Pet Mini-Sessions will now be a permanent feature for clients:

$75, One Location, 5-10 Images w/ Print Release

{The K Family} Kelso Washington Family Photography

2010-08-13T09:28:00.000-07:00

This beautiful family had me out to their home on Wednesday for their family photos. It was a gorgeous setting and I thoroughly enjoyed myself! Thank you for choosing me to be your photographer! Here's your sneek peek!

{Tim + Christine = Hitched!} Southwest Washington Wedding Photographer

2010-08-09T17:29:00.000-07:00

I headed out Saturday morning to do some formal wedding portraits for this lovely couple! We were so fortunate to have dodged the rain for the pictures...the filtered light was perfect and these two were a blast to work with! I was accompanied by Briony Bow...they specialize in custom reversible bow ties and will join you on your wedding day to tie them on! Congratulations and enjoy your preview!

{Random Blogging and Mini-Sessions} Longview Kelso Washington Custom Photography

2010-07-19T12:00:00.000-07:00

I've been so busy lately, getting my Facebook fan page together, editing, shooting, blah blah blah, I feel that I've neglected my blog! So here are a few shots of some stuff that has been going on the last couple of weeks, and some details about some Mini-Sessions that I'll be doing over the next few weeks:

Summer Mini-Sessions:

Choose: Tamo-shanter park, Lake Sacajawea, Downtown Longview (urban, edgy), Kelso Train Station

$75 for 5-10 digital images w/ print release

Personal online gallery for ordering

My 'baby's one year portraits:

Some studio work for Briony Bow: