My Munchkins

I'm at bit behind on posting these images to my blog.  Life has a way to moving by so fast, doesn't it?

A couple of weeks ago, my munchkins asked me to do a "real" photo shoot with them. I learned, as I was getting everything ready for the shoot, that "real" meant bringing all of my props that I use with clients from time to time. So, I had to bring the mini chair, an umbrella an 2 silly hats. They asked for the ball and the bubbles too, but I turned them down on those.  I actually don't bring the props to shoots too often anymore.  I will if it makes sense, but I don't want all of the same things to be in all of my shoots.  Every shoot must be unique.

We headed off to Cantigny around 6:45pm. The sun was about an hour from setting and the lighting was perfect!  The kids had a blast giggling and playing and arguing over who was getting their photo taken next. Have I mentioned just how thankful I am to have little people who truly love getting their picture taken? They are so used to me having my camera that I believe they would think it was more odd if I wasn't constantly taking photos of almost everything we do.

I am terrible about printing photos and putting them up in my house.  It doesn't make sense, I know. But, it's true. However, with this shoot, I just might be motivated to get a few more things on the wall!

Ashley's Senior Photo Shoot Sneak Peek

So, I've known this beautiful girl since before she made her big entrance into the world. Her mom, Jenni, and I have been best friends since 8th grade. The fact that Jenni has a daughter who will be a senior this year is absolutely mind boggling. Aren't we still just 18 or 19 ourselves?  You blink and 20 years passes.

Ashley won this photo shoot for free!  I did my first Facebook giveaway contest and she singlehandedly help me gain about 20 new fans on my Fan Page throughout the contest. When I drew the winner, it was no surprise that Ashley's name was the one in my hand. All those extra fans gave her many additional entries which clearly worked for her in the end.

After a few messages back and forth, we got a date set right after the 4th of July. Ashley has been in Cross Country throughout her high school career, so I thought it would be fun to do some shots at the track at school. We started out there, after sweet talking one of the Athletic Directors into letting us on the track for a short time. (okay it wasn't THAT hard, but it's more fun to tell it that way!)

Holy mackeral was it ever hot! Even at 8:30 in the morning, there was no shade and the sun was beating down on the black top and us! I have to say though, Ashley was such a great sport. She did whatever I asked and hung in there until I got what I wanted in images.

Next, we headed to a nearby Park District park.  I always love shooting at new locations.  This spot was perfect with bridges and trees and a river and so many beautiful things all around. We walked and took pictures and talked and took pictures and had a lot of fun!  Ashley truly knows how to look right into the camera and give sincere smiles with her eyes, which always makes such a difference in getting great images.

I can hardly wrap my head around how grown up she is now. It just doesn't seem possible.  It was a true joy photographing her.

I wish you all the best in the your final year of high school Ashley! It will fly by before you know it.  Have fun! Enjoy the photos!