Don't Forget Your Camera.

The best snapshots to capture are the real, unscripted, messy moments that happen every day.  As a photographer, you think I'd always have my camera at the ready, but sadly this is not true.  It's a hard decision to step out of being in the moment in order to photograph it.  I am so guilty of thinking "wow I wish I had a picture of this" but not following through and grabbing the camera.  I keep my "big girl" camera downstairs in my basement office where it's safe from curious toddler hands, but not very convenient as we do most of our living upstairs.

This weekend we had an impromptu visit from Grandma and Grandpa, and we baked about a zillion chocolate chip cookies.  My daughter Sarah Beth wanted to help, of course.  She donned her new apron and got to work mixing a concoction of flour, baking soda, and salt on a plate (and on the counter and on the chair and on the floor.)  She was having so much fun making a mess with Grandma, that I finally got my camera from downstairs and snapped off a few shots of the bakers.

They're not technically perfect, the light isn't great and there's random stuff in the background, but I love them and I bet Grandma will treasure them even more.  This holiday season as you gather with family and friends, don't forget to capture a few photos of sweet little memories like this.  You'll be glad you did!

"More cookies please, Grandma!"

Emma Helen and Beth

Before Thanksgiving, I had the chance to photograph my friend Beth and her beautiful daughter Emma Helen.  Beth and I were sorority sisters and roommates in college and I still don't believe we're old enough to have kids, but apparently, the 90's are long gone and we're all grown up now.  :-)

We had a fun afternoon at the park, and the light was just lovely.  Almost as lovely as these two ladies.

Emma Helen's favorite class is Drama, so we headed to the stage, naturally.

Miming "Girl Behind a Window"

"Girl Opening a Window"