mini sessions for cancer

In July 2016, my dad was diagnosed with stage 4 esophageal cancer.

In the fall of 2016, he was declared "cancer-free."

Then, in January 2017, it was back.

By April 4, we learned it had spread.

By April 17, I was finally able to convince my dad that the treatment he needed could be covered in cost through fundraising and donations--an idea he hated the thought of, but allowed me to move forward with.

For three weeks, I conducted mini sessions in the evenings and on the weekends, in an effort to raise nearly $40,000 for my dad's treatments. We also held an auction. We also flat out groveled.

I had over 30 families participate in this mini session fundraising and take me up on my offer. I asked for a minimum of $50 to go toward my dad's fund--overall, those families gave over $3,000.

And on a larger scale, my dad's community of people--his friends, his family, and perfect total strangers--collectively raised over $28,000 in just a few weeks.

Unfortunately, we never had a chance to fight for that last $12,000--my beloved dad passed away on May 28, 2017.

Pardon the language but, um, #fuckcancer.

I never really posted any of these images as I completed them because I was editing them while in the hospital with my dad. There was a sense of urgency to complete them before I had a chance to actually market them.

So tonight, as I edited the very last session from those minis, I took the time to pick a few favorites to share here.

I am so thankful for this community. All of the people who came out for this cause hold a place in my heart--thank you for your donations. Thank you for your support. Thank you for your cards. Thank you for your love.

It has been exactly two months since my dad passed away. And even though we are slowly (very, very slowly) starting to adjust to a new normal, it feels like it has been years since I have heard his voice, or spoken to him. I miss him even more than I ever imagined I would and--at times--photography feels a little difficult to do. Photos of dads and daughters feel especially difficult, even though it warms my heart to capture those images for them. <3

Once again, enjoy these sneaks. And thank you to everyone who came out to support my dad! He definitely felt the love, as did my entire family!













Courtney + family. |. Breckenridge family photographer

I have a pretty good list of loyal clients who hire me for family photos every time I come to Texas. Courtney is one of them. I have been taking photos for her and David for several years--maybe four? Five?

But this time, I had the privilege of photographing them in MY backyard, as they came to Breckenridge for a vacation. AND we tried out a new location.

I'd say we did pretty well. ;)

I had SO MUCH FUN with these guys! And they were great sports as we, believe it or not, dodged a lot of traffic in this location. Lol.

Thanks again, Courtney! I hope you love your sneak peek!

xoxo













the Y family | breckenridge family photo session

It isn't very often that I get the chance to do an AM photo session.

And by "AM," I mean, "riiiiiiiiight when the sun comes up."

When Ashlee told me she wanted a sunrise session for her family, I wanted to tell her to be there at 5:42 am...but figured I'd be pressing my luck. Lol.

So I suggested 6am.

Her words were something like, "That sounds painful, but we trust you."

The dream client's response.

Thank you, Ashlee! Enjoy your sneak peek; I hope your sweet family loves the images!








the L family . | . breckenridge family photos

I loved having a chance to hang out with this family of four! The weather was perfect, and you alway know things will go well when mom shares that she, "loves the candid shots."

Yes.

Thanks again, Jamie! Enjoy your sneak peek!








ashley | breckenridge maternity photographer

When I met Ashley 12 years ago in Grad school, I don't think either of us ever anticipated the fact that one day I would be photographing her while pregnant, holding her daughter. I think we are both still in shock, actually.

And in natural "Ashley's baby" style...these maternity photos are literally being delivered only hours after the baby was born (her daughter did the same thing to me, lol).

Oh well. I am just glad I had a chance to capture the last days while baby brother was on the inside; when Ava was still an only child; and before Ashley's world was totally rocked with a baby boy--something that only mothers of little boys truly, truly understand.

Congrats, my friend. I love you so much, and I can't wait to see you soon!

xoxo





the N family . | . breckenridge family photographer

This family was a lot of fun to work with--and they gave me the perfect inspiration when I was looking for a twirly dress for my daughter's 5th birthday!! I just LOVED the twirly dress that Megan's daughter was wearing...I'll include a copy of my own daughter wearing the same one, in yellow. ;)

Thanks again, Megan! I hope you love the photos!







...and my girl, in her own Alice + Ames dress. <3





the B family | Breckenridge family photographer

Jennifer and Joe are two people who have meant a lot to me and my family over the years.

Jennifer is one of my mom's best friends. When my husband and I got married, we got married out on the balcony of her parents' home in the mountains. She is a member of my Plexus team, and we share a passion for photography.

When she told me that her Mother's Day gift this year was a session with me, it really meant a lot. I love having the chance to photograph loved ones--but most especially when they seek me out, knowing that my images, my art...are what they want.

Thank you again, Jennifer!! I hope you love them. :)

xoxo