Welcome back to the NEW newsletter: Sit, Stay, Smile!

Given this month’s holiday, I want to take a moment to focus on all of the things that I am grateful for. My number one thing is my people. From my close friends to my family, the great folks in my life are what keep me going. This year, my Aunt Barbara and Uncle Ed moved back to Wisconsin. This was especially impactful in my life after losing both of my parents.

It feels wonderful to be surrounded by so much love!

Still need photos for your Christmas or holiday card? It’s not too late!

Let’s leave the Awkward Family Photo Shoots in the past.

We’ve all seen those cringy family portraits.

You know, the ones that look like a ragtag crew was wrangled together for an awkward afternoon of strange poses and stiff smiles that end up looking way more like gritted teeth.

I’m here to make sure your family photo experience is the opposite of all that. Think relaxed, fun, and full of genuine moments that you’ll actually want to remember.

Nothing strained, nothing feigned.

I’ve been photographing families (and just about everything else) for decades. I started back in the days of film and haven’t stopped since. Along the way, I’ve learned that the best family photos come from being present, not perfect. I capture your crew just as you are: laughing at inside jokes, being goofy, and loving on each other in your own unique way.

I bring a calm, kind presence and a sense of humor that helps everyone relax—even the camera-shy.

We’ll turn that grimace into an authentic, joyful grin, and transform the Awkward Family Photo Shoot into an enjoyable, memorable event.

See more family portraits here

Special Spaces

Special Spaces is a wonderful nonprofit that provides a fantasy bedroom makeover for kiddos undergoing cancer treatments. The organization is volunteer based and sponsored by companies that cover the cost of the updates. My job is to photograph “the reveal” moment where the young person walks through the door to the new bedroom of their dreams. Here is one of those incredible moments that I had the honor of capturing.

This is one of the many things I’m grateful to be part of in my community!

Find out more about Special Spaces on their website!

Gallery Spaces

As part of MATC’s permanent collection, I have six 16 x 25 metal prints at the Oak Creek and Mequon campuses. The college supports 16 artists per year, and I’m truly grateful to be one of them. On display is my Women’s Work series, a collection of portraits that I am super proud of.

To find out more information about these workplace photos, check out this interview!

Make sure to add Beans & Barley to your list of local small businesses to visit!

I’m grateful to be a location scout!

Location scouting is the process of finding the perfect setting for a photo or video shoot. I drive around in search of places that look incredible, match the mood for the assignment, and make sure they’re accessible… and that nobody ends up with a trespassing ticket! Haha.

All jokes aside, whether it’s an indoor pool, a retro diner, or a beautiful row of vibrant fall colors, I am always on the lookout for that perfect spot to shoot.

Whether you need scouting services for filming or you have a stunning property that deserves to be on camera, I’d love to hear from you!

Let me scout it out!

I’m grateful to be a photographer!

I, of course, have to mention the obvious thing: I love being a photographer!

It was always my dream to be able to take photos, scout locations, AND make it my full-time career. I’m so thankful to be a trusted name in photography in Milwaukee and all over the state of Wisconsin.

Do you need portraits taken? Let’s get in touch!

You never know—you may end up with some snapshots that will become moments you’ll be eternally grateful you captured.

Book your photo session today!

I’m grateful for your kindness!

It totally makes my day whenever anyone takes the time to leave some positive feedback about their session. I love what I do and I’m so glad that you feel it, too!

Behind the scenes of the lady behind the lens:

When I’m not shooting or scouting, I love spending my time supporting other artists and musicians at The Pabst, Turner Hall, The Riverside, and The Vivarium. Catching live shows from some of my favorite local talent is one of my favorite pastimes—and I’m grateful I get to do it!

Here are some snapshots from recent shots I attended: Mon Rovîa and Pete Yorn. I had a blast!

Thank you so much for taking a moment to sit and stay. Hopefully, this gave you something to smile about today!