Sites set on the engagement session

I have always considered myself a family photographer. So when a good friend, Kelly asked me to take engagement photos of her and her fiance' Jann, I had to step out of my comfort zone a bit, but there was no way I was going to refuse her.

Kelly was nervous about the weather (the session was held at a local park). The weather called for beautiful skies all day (after a slight chance of rain in the morning). Of course the skies became black and thunder storms ensued for the entire morning. My usual assistant had to back out at the last minute (never a good thing). So the session was getting more and more challenging. But, my sites were set. This session was going to happen.

At the last minute (and I do mean the last minute), the skies cleared up, I found a new assistant to help me. The bonus: I got to work with some of the coolest people ever!

Kelly and Jaan have such a great young and energetic kind of love. They are relaxed and comfortable with one another and I think that comes across in their images.

You guys ROCK, I can't wait to go to the wedding!

Strange at first site...

On vacation, my family went to a Wildlife Park where you get to feed wild animals from your car.

First of all, the park is all the worst things about capitalism. It takes these beautiful animals from Africa (and other regions in the world) and forces them to "beg for their supper" one car load at a time. For our amusement.

Secondly though, it does provide an up close experience with animals other wise off limits to us. (Bison, Zebra, Giraffe, Elk). Even though that experience is artificial (in every way), it is an opportunity to appreciate the size and beauty of these creatures. Besides, it is just bizarre (and thrilling) to have a large male Elk stick his head in your vehicle.