“For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother’s womb.  I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”  Psalm 139:13-14, NIV

There’s just something so soft and peaceful in a picture that has been “kissed by the sun.”

Let me introduce you to Tyler!  Tyler is a great guy who is hard working, loves being outdoors to hunt, and likes playing basketball.  I enjoyed taking Tyler’s senior portrait, because he was great in front of the camera…a natural at posing, which is wonderful for the photographer!  Most of his pictures were taken where he lives…some in his backyard and at lakes nearby.  It is a beautiful area!

When Tyler was asked what is something he’s never done, but someday hopes to do, his answer was, “Get married to a smoking hot girl.” 🙂  I’m glad I knew this before his session, because when I would mention it he’d smile!

Tyler, I know you’re looking forward to grad next spring…enjoy your senior year and God bless you as He leads you in the future!

O-H-I-O!!  The Ohio State University campus was the location of choice for Stephen and Amber’s engagement portraits, because both Stephen and Amber have attended OSU.  The other spot that we used was their favorite pizza place off High Street called Hound Dogs.  I must admit after tasting the pizza I will be returning sometime to introduce the “yummy-ness” to my family!

Let me tell you a little about Stephen and Amber!  They went to school and church together, so they’ve known each other most of their lives.   Stephen and Amber stay busy and love doing things together like—golf, frisbee golf, working out, walks, geocaching, eating out, playing board games, and movies…wow they stay active! 🙂

Stephen is outgoing and energetic, and can make a friend wherever he goes.  Amber says, “I love that Stephen is super talkative and always has something to say.”

Amber is sweet, laid back and has a great sense of humor.  I love how Stephen admires Amber and thinks she’s perfect.  He also shared, “I like how she is willing to do just about anything for me.  Foot rubs, back rubs, head rubs, etc.”

Stephen and Amber are planning a May 25, 2013 wedding.  Congratulations, Stephen and Amber!  Enjoy the next few months of planning!  I’m looking forward to your special day!

Our first stop...Hound Dogs! Delicious pizza!!

Browning Amphitheater, OSU Campus

Mirror Lake, OSU Campus

The Oval, OSU Campus

The Horseshoe, OSU Campus

We hadn't planned to take sunset pictures, but when I saw how absolutely beautiful the sky was this evening we just had to take a few shots!

Michaela…a beautiful person inside and out!  Her friends say that she’s funny—even when she’s not trying to be, and usually the one to come up with the crazy ideas for a fun time!

When I asked Michaela what’s one thing that she’s never done but would love to do someday, she said she’d like to compete in The Amazing Race.  I hope she can do this someday, however, if she doesn’t get a chance to be on the tv show, life tends to be a bit like an amazing race, wouldn’t you agree?!  We don’t know what’s ahead, but we need to follow God’s map (the Bible) and His leading in whatever adventures He has for us.  I think Michaela already understands this, because when I asked her about her plans after graduation she shared, “I plan on going to college and meeting new people and enjoying the change in life.  Whatever I do, I plan on glorifying God through it.”

Michaela, enjoy the amazing race God has ahead for you!  Even through the bumps, turns, and Lord willing smooth roads ahead may you sense God’s hand leading you each step of the way.  Blessings to you!

Ory and Brooke…what a great couple!  I can tell they love each other and would do just about anything for the other, because they braved a super, windy and chilly evening together to take their engagement portraits! 🙂 Seriously, though, just by watching Ory and Brooke look into each other’s eyes you can see they love and respect each other.

The location of choice for their shoot was their homes which are just a few miles apart…a beautiful wooded area at her home and an open pasture at his.  They chose to use these spots because they are unique and special to them, and within this simplicity they wanted their portraits to focus on them and their love!

Ory and Brooke grew up in the same town, started dating in high school, and then headed off to college together.  They enjoy quiet nights in, watching movies, relaxing, and playing games.

When I asked Ory what he loves about Brooke he said, “Everything!”  He went on to explain that he loves her smile, laugh and personality.

Brooke shared that Ory makes her laugh and that he’s kind, compassionate, honest, and a tad bit nerdy. 🙂  She said, “He has the ability to ground me.  I love the feeling of comfort and safety I have with him.”

Ory and Brooke, thanks for letting me spend the evening with you…I’m looking forward to your wedding!  I know it will be beautiful!

One of my favorites. I love the kiss of the sun!

On these recent, beautiful, fall days it’s easy to forget the numerous 90 degree days we experienced this summer.  Remember?  Day after day of the heat?!   Jeremy and Jen’s wedding fell on one of those 90 plus degree days with the sun shining brightly, and although it was a scorcher, their day was beautiful from start to finish!

When I look back at Jeremy and Jen’s wedding I think the thing I’ll remember most was the beauty of their ceremony.  The service was such a true worship to the Lord and a testimony of God’s grace and work in their lives.  Although I was working during the ceremony, I could sense the sweet spirit!  I know that Jeremy and Jen would both say that their wedding day and their marriage is not about themselves, but about serving the Lord and living their lives as a worship to God…and this was obvious.

Recently, I told someone that I think the thing I like most about doing wedding photography is being able to interact with the bride and groom on a day that they want to remember for the rest of their lives.  It’s true!  I’m grateful to have had the privilege of sharing in Jeremy and Jen’s day.  Blessing to you both!

Special notes: I want to mention that Stacy Troyer did an absolutely beautiful job of styling Jen’s hair.  I also want to thank Deborah Beachy of dgPhotography for assisting me and adding her special touch to her shots!

"First Look"--Jeremy's reaction is priceless!

Beautiful Sisters with Beautiful Eyes!!