After such a long time (I'm actually embarrassed to say exactly how long!) I can finally cross "re-design website" off my eternal list of things TO DO. Seriously, I can't even explain how huge of a task this has been, which is why it ultimately kept getting put on the back burner. I don't even remember the last time I gave someone my website address without a pang of guilt, knowing how out of date my online samples were. 

Here are a few of my favorite shots from their engagement shoot on a VERY cold day back in November on the Iowa State campus. 

Derek had the genius idea to set up a website for their wedding guests. It has online RSVP, information on accommodations, an auto map generator for directions, information about their wedding party, vendors and a photo gallery. I designed the look/pages and he made it all work. 

It's not often, especially this time of year, that photographers will take time out of their busy schedules to do a photo shoot JUST for art's sake.... perhaps something a little off the wall or something a customer would never ask for. We all KNOW we should set aside time for these "art shoots" if only to keep fresh in our heads why we love photography so much.  A little over a week ago, I got together with Jayson to do just that. He's been tossing around the idea for a 'returned-from-the-dead bride' photo shoot for awhile now, so we scheduled some time for it! His employee, Marissa, agreed to put on an old wedding dress and 'goth up' her makeup. We headed to a cemetery near Jayson's  studio and hoped people wouldn't think we were there to cause trouble! The light was just PERFECT!

A couple years ago, I photographed Heather and two friends for some winter fun photos in the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. We had so much fun, I was just thrilled when she asked me to do her senior photos! Late Monday afternoon, we went to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum where walking paths led through fields of flowers, waterfalls, fountains, and much more! As the sun set, the light kept getting more perfect. Heather, her mom and I had so much fun wandering around finding great little spots. Here is a sneak peek at just a few of my favorites from the afternoon. Isn't she adorable!? {sj}

They have both become pretty comfortable in front of the camera - so much fun to photograph!

This time their cousin Chase joined in the fun too.

The first photo shoot was a combination of senior and family photos. I have known the Wallace family since I was born, so it was fun to see them all again and catch up. I can hardly believe their youngest, Aaron is going to be a SENIOR--I remember when he was born! He brought along his tractor, which made for some great shots along with the barn scenery around the gardens that made a perfect fit for this farm family!

I also can not believe their oldest, Jenny has TWO kids--here have the years gone!? Tori was a wonderful little model and had fun playing in all of the flowers at the garden.

Seems like just yesterday it was us running around the farm playing! {sj}