Portrait Session, Nadiya

It was the nearing the end of fall and winter began showing it’s face. Although I was a bit nervous for the cold, I knew we’d make it work.

I followed the weather close and as the day approached I was delighted to see the temps would be perfect! The day before? Cold. The day after? Super cold. What luck! I knew then it was going to be a special shoot.

And special shoot it was!

I’ve met Nadiya and worked with her family before so it didn't take long for us to get comfortable. I was instantly reminded why I love taking senior portraits.

It’s such a unique time of life, really. A chapter ends and so much is beginning.
I’m always left feeling inspired and quite honored to capture the time.

Nadiya was confident and her energy radiated in such a way that made my job very easy. I can’t wait to get out there this summer and shoot some more portraiture!

If you’re in need of photos, please reach out. I’d love to discuss it with you!

Love Will See You Through | Anastasia & Elliott

A few weeks ago, after what felt like the longest year, I packed my camera bag and headed to Sioux Falls. I had the honor of photographing my cousin’s wedding day. What a joy.

The venue was gorgeous and the weather was perfect but nothing compared to seeing these families and friends come together. You can imagine the laughter and tears. I get goosebumps thinking about it.

As I lifted my camera to my face at the start of the day, my nerves dropped. I got to shoot alongside my dad and in the end we came out with a pretty gorgeous album. I’m so excited to give you a sneak peek.

Can you feel the love? Simply beautiful.

Thank you Anastasia and Elliott! Wishing you an abundance of blessings forever and always!

XO - Elyse’

Like a Photograph

So many thoughts pass through my mind during the day.
They always have.

Except now that I find myself in the thick of motherhood, thoughts get lost, ignored or just crowded out.

I miss it. I miss this.

Art found it's way back into my life through photography.... & I love it.

I mean, I really love it. Utterly fascinated with the making & taking of a photograph.

Then, from photography, my creativity began to bleed into other mediums...
lettering, watercolors & my first true love, collage art.

And now here I sit, staring at a blinking cursor.

Gah, it makes me so happy.

I've always loved to write.

A way to catch thoughts, questions, feelings & ideas -- nailing them down before they're gone forever.

In a way, a bit like a photograph.