Newborn Photos with Dogs: Tips for Picture-Perfect Family Portraits

newborn photos with dogs

When Jaden called me about scheduling a newborn session, her biggest concern wasn’t about poses or props—it was about whether we could include Nia, a mini American Shepherd, who had been with her for seven years. “I can’t imagine our family photos without her,” she told me. A few weeks later, we captured some of […]

read more

Summer Photos in Cedar Rapids: Why Smart Families Choose Studio Sessions

summer photos in Cedar Rapids

read more

Summer photos in Cedar Rapids don’t have to mean dealing with sweltering heat, cranky toddlers, or racing against the clock to catch perfect light. While other families are stressing about timing and weather, there’s a beautifully simple solution that more and more local families are discovering: the comfort and consistency of a professional studio designed […]

Family Vacation Photo Tips: 5 Simple Ways to Capture Amazing Memories (Using Just Your Phone!)

family vacation photo tips

Your family vacation is going to be incredible, and now your photos can be just as amazing as the memories you’re making! As someone who spends most of my time creating beautiful images in my controlled studio environment, I have such an appreciation for the challenge—and the magic—of capturing gorgeous family moments with just your […]

read more

When Big Sister Steals the Show (In the Best Way)

read more

There’s something magical about watching a toddler discover their role as big sister during a newborn session. This sweet 2-year-old arrived clinging to mom’s leg, unsure about this whole new situation. But within minutes of noticing the toys I keep in the studio, her curiosity took over. I never ask toddlers to “smile and look […]

Natural Family Photography: Why Professional Guidance Creates Authentic Images

natural family photography

We all dream of natural family photography—images where everyone looks relaxed, connected, and genuinely joyful. You envision candid laughter, tender embraces, and authentic moments that perfectly capture your family’s unique story. But here’s the truth that often goes unsaid: actually achieving those seemingly effortless images when a camera is pointed at you can feel anything […]

read more

What to Expect at a Newborn Photo Session: Your Complete Guide to the Experience

what to expect at a newborn photo session

read more

We all want those effortlessly “natural” photos—images that truly capture the unscripted joy and genuine connection of our families. We scroll through galleries, admiring candid laughter and tender embraces, wishing our own photos could feel just as authentic. Yet, when it’s our turn in front of the camera, a sense of awkwardness can quickly set […]

Edison Turns One: A Meaningful Milestone Session Full of Culture, Family, and Joy

milestone session

One of the best parts of being a photographer is getting to witness a family’s story unfold over time. When Jeremy and Nancy signed up for my one-year milestone package, I knew we were in for something special. Watching their son Edison grow during his first year, and capturing the little moments along the way, […]

read more

What Time of Day Is Best for Newborn Photos in Iowa?

what time of day is best for newborn photos in Iowa

read more

Let’s face it, newborn life is a blur of feeding, napping, and figuring it all out one day at a time. So when it is finally time to schedule your newborn photo session (yay!), one of the first questions you might have is: what time of day is best for newborn photos in Iowa? Good […]

12 Ultimate Pre-Baby Date Night Ideas in Iowa City

date night ideas in Iowa City

From fine dining to late-night donuts and everything in between, here are some of my favorite date night ideas in Iowa City to enjoy before baby. Let’s be honest, once baby arrives, date nights can feel like a distant memory. So why not soak up this sweet, pre-baby chapter with a few memorable evenings out? […]

read more

The Best Cedar Rapids Summer Family Photo Styling Tips for Moms, Dads, and Kids

Cedar Rapids summer family photo

read more

Summer is here, and that means it’s the perfect time for family photos! But if you’re staring into your closet wondering how to coordinate everyone without looking like a walking Pinterest fail – take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and I’ve got your back. As a photographer (and mom), I know how stressful outfit […]