Andrew and Jessica Photographers

It's time for a new blog!

2009-01-13T14:21:00.001-08:00

Well our new blog is officially up and I've already made my first post. I won't be posting to blogger anymore so please update your bookmarks or RSS feeds. The new blog is at...
www.andrewandjessicablog.com

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

2008-12-25T12:01:00.000-08:00

Christmas is definitely our favorite holiday...we buy each other too much, make cookies, eat too much candy and spend tons of time with our family. I hope that everyone is enjoying this season as much as we are. Jessica is off school for 2 weeks, my sisters are home and there's nothing to do for a few days. I hope that everyone is spending time with family and friends this week and remembering what's truly important in life.

Jess and I won't be working (or blogging) much for the next week...we're taking it easy together. So have a Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and a Happy Holidays! We're grateful for everyone who reads this and supports us and we can't wait for the upcoming year.

Thanks!

2008-12-16T13:52:00.000-08:00

This past year has been so amazing for me and Jessica; and one of the big reasons are the 19 amazing couples who have allowed us to be a part of their lives. We certainly wouldn't be where we are today without their support and their trust in us. We've put together a recap slideshow with some of our favorite images from each of their weddings.

I realize I haven't blogged the last two weddings yet...I'm waiting for our new blog which should be ready by the end of the year.

Please click here to be taken to the slideshow.

Where have I been?

2008-12-05T21:25:00.001-08:00

I apologize for the lack of posting lately...I know that some of you hang on my every word (which if that's actually true than I feel special.) But seriously I've been quite busy lately. We've had two weddings the last two weekends, I've been out hunting and we spent Thanksgiving week with our family. I'm also having a brand new blog that's being built by the great people at Flosites and should hopefully be done very soon.

I've got two amazing weddings to blog about but I just might wait and save those for the new blog. Sorry. I've got quite a few interesting topics that I want to explore in my next few posts and I definitely want some comments and feedback from everyone who reads this.

Until then here's a few pictures of our ridiculously cute nephews from last week...

Jessica is playing Honey Bee Tree with Taylor.

Nothing like decorating Christmas cookies.

We're leaving, but you can follow us!

2008-11-19T23:00:00.000-08:00

We're leaving tomorrow morning to photograph a great wedding in Sunriver, Oregon and we couldn't be more excited. We'll be gone for the weekend but of course I'll have pictures when we get back. I won't be updating the blog over the weekend but you can follow us either on Facebook (if we're friends) or through Twitter. I'm just trying Twitter so I'll do my best to keep it updated; make sure to check those both out if you're interested.

Our new blog is right around the corner and it's going to have some cool features (like facebook and twitter integration) so I'm anxious for everyone to try those out and see if it's worthwhile. I have a few ideas as to how I'll make them useful and worth your time so make sure to check back.

I hope everyone has a great weekend and I'll update soon!

Go out and buy 1 or 2 or 5 of these right now!

2008-11-19T22:43:00.000-08:00

Two weekends ago our hot water heater went out and produced a dangerous amount of carbon monoxide in our home. Luckily we were gone so nothing happened to us. I had a major issue with XCEL Energy which I'll talk more about later but the moral of the story is go out and spend some money on carbon monoxide detectors for your home. Put one near your gas appliances and definitely in your bedroom. It's a colorless, odorless gas that can kill you. As the XCEL worker told me "you don't want to wake up dead."

Seriously though if you don't have them in your home please make it a priority to go out and buy a few of them.

Julia and Greg are married!

2008-11-11T18:59:00.000-08:00

Jessica and I were lucky enough to travel to Omaha for Julia and Greg's amazing wedding. They had it at the Lauritzen Botanical Gardens and everything was just perfect. We had never met Julia and Greg until their wedding day but that didn't make the slightest difference because they were so inviting and such genuine people. They had a gift basket waiting for us at the hotel and we were invited to the day after BBQ at Julia's dads house. We feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to meet and get to know Julia and Greg; they are incredibly conscious people and they made sure everyone was comfortable and taken care of. Here's a few of our favorites...

Julia looked great.

Jessica took this amazing ring shot.

Jess got this great image of Julia getting ready.

I love this picture of Julia's sister looking back at her before she went down the aisle.

The guys rings are always difficult to put on...I'm not sure why.

They looked great together.

They had a pretty big bridal party but I think we got some interesting, casual shots.

I love this dancing shot.

I have to say a huge thanks to my friend Jon for introducing us to Julia and Greg.

Jon and Holly are married!

2008-11-05T15:55:00.000-08:00

We photographed Jon and Holly's wedding at The Tapestry House in Fort Collins a few weeks ago and it turned out perfectly. Jessica was one of Holly's bridesmaids and we've known Jon and Holly for about 7 years. Jess and Holly were roommates in college and Jon lived on the same floor as I did (Newsom 1SW.)

It's always extra special when you see two close friends get married and we were so happy to capture the excitement and the emotion of their wedding day.

Here's a few, actually a bunch, of our favorites...

Betty was one of the bridesmaids and one of our good friends. If we ever need an assistant I think we know where to go.

Steph was another bridesmaid and another one of our good friends. She did all the makeup and it turned out so amazing.

Good groomsmen letting the groom know what to do.

I love this shot because if you look closely on the left side you can just see Jon's hand coming in.

Jessica is the second one from the right. Isn't she gorgeous?

Jessica gave a great speech.

We photographed Mike and Carly's wedding almost 2 years ago and we basically owe the success of our business to them. Thanks guys, it was great to see you.

And of course one goofy group shot.

VOTE!

2008-11-03T15:48:00.000-08:00

Well today is the day and I'm kind of excited. I'm definitely ready for the election to be over but I'm excited for the new president to take over and to see what he can do. If you don't vote today or haven't even registered to vote, well shame on you for not taking advantage of that responsibility and right that we all have. If you did vote, than good for you. I dropped off our ballots yesterday, we voted absentee because the Colorado ballot was incredibly large. Numerous amendments, refernedums, presidential candidates, judges and congresspeople.

I guess by the end of the night we will know who our next president is. As I'm writing this on Monday night I do believe it will be Obama. And I am intrigued to see the direction our country will go with him at the helm. I struggled with who to vote for. I like (and dislike) many things about both candidates; so it was a tough decision. In the end I made my decision based on a lot of reading, research and time spent pondering my own beliefs and how they matched up with the two candidates.

I feel good about the decision(s) I made and the candidates I chose. I feel even better about the fact that I made the effort to vote. So who do you think will win and who did you vote for?

I'll leave you with a quote from the immortal Dan Quayle...“This election is about who's going to be the next President of the United States!”

I couldn't have said it better myself.

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T15:46:00.000-07:00

It's starting to get dark so we should start getting some trick or treaters soon. Which is good because I've eaten way too much candy in the past few days (I knew I should have waited until today to buy all of our candy.) This will be the warmest Halloween (75 degrees today) in Colorado since the 1950's so I'm sure there will be tons of kids out tonight. Have a great night and don't eat too much candy...

Here's a few pumpkins we (and Heather and Ben) carved a few days ago...

Who's ready for November 4th?

2008-10-25T17:35:00.000-07:00

I have to say that I'm ready for November 4th and for the election to be over. I'm ready to stop being bombarded with TV commercials and junk mail and all the lying and negativity of ALL the campaigns. I'm ready to move on and get past the election. I'm ready for the new president (whether it be McCain or Obama) to take office and start making good on all the promises (yeah right.)

I do believe the election season is an interesting time though. People who never follow politics become passionately involved. Seemingly intelligent people take completely closed minded positions on candidates and issues. Candidates who promised no negative ads create only negative ads.

I do think elections are critically important to our countries future and the individual voter is the most important aspect of that. I think everyone should vote. I don't care who you're voting for or if you're a Democrat or Republican. You absolutely need to vote. It's an incredibly important right and privilege that we have and everyone should take advantage of it. Take some time and read up on the candidates, keep an open mind, check out websites like factcheck.org and make an educated and informed decision.

And you can also head over to my friend Jon's blog and read up on the 16 different candidates running for president. Yes that's right there are 16 different named presidential candidates. Check out his site for a slightly humorous and unbiased review of all the different candidates. He'll be posting about them for the next 10 days and then will have a poll at the end.

So have you decided who you're voting for? Because I haven't.

Cale and Dorothy are married!

2008-10-20T19:07:00.000-07:00

Cale and Dorothy had one of the most amazing weddings we've been to a few weeks ago up in the mountains. Cale's parents have some property in Silt, CO and it was the perfect place for their ceremony and reception. What was so great about their wedding is that it was totally them. They were incredibly relaxed the whole day and only had one intention...to have a great party and a great time. They definitely succeeded. They got ready together, his groomsman wore jeans (and his brother had a beer as she walked down the aisle) they incorporated Dorothy's Polish roots into the wedding and they got cake up their nose. All in all a great time.

Thanks Cale and Dorothy for making us feel so invited on your wedding day and we know you are going to live a long and happy life together. Here's a few of our favorites from the day...

Menus in English and Polish...

Dorothy's mother prayed a special blessing over them right before the wedding.

You can't have a much better setting for a wedding.

We had a great sunset and managed to capture it.

We had to get a few pictures of them driving the Mule.

They had the best cake smashing we've ever seen. Cale had to go inside and wash the cake out of his nose.

They both got a lot of cake in their face.

Like I said, their reception site was awesome.

Blog Action Day: Poverty

2008-10-15T16:12:00.000-07:00

Today is known as blog action day and thousands of bloggers around the world are discussing one single issue; the topic is poverty.

"Blog Action Day is an annual nonprofit event that aims to unite the world’s bloggers, podcasters and videocasters, to post about the same issue on the same day. Our aim is to raise awareness and trigger a global discussion."-Blog Action Day Website.

I won't pretend to be an expert on poverty (because I'm not) and I certainly don't have the answers to even begin solving the problem. I do know that poverty is a world wide problem from developing countries in Africa to the guy on the street corner in your neighborhood. You probably don't have to look very far to see someone living in poverty.

There's probably thousands of ways to help people in poverty; from donating money, to working at a homeless shelter, to smiling at the guy on the street corner with a cardboard sign.

There's a great organization by the name of Kiva that is helping people all across the world. They have a very cool model that I think would be appealing to many people. You feel like your're truly helping someone make their life better. Take some time to read through their website and see if it's something you'd be interested in donating to.

But remember there are many ways that you can make a small difference on the fight against poverty. Take some time to think outside of your own life and your own daily schedule to help another person.

"Being unwanted, unloved, uncared for, forgotten by everybody, I think that is a much greater hunger, a much greater poverty than the person who has nothing to eat. "-Mother Teresa

Lori and Doug are getting married...

2008-10-11T11:23:00.000-07:00

We went out to Wash Park in Denver with Doug and Lori last week and got some amazing light for their engagement pictures. They brought their cruiser bikes which was a lot of fun, although we did have to do some running around to catch them. We're excited for their wedding next year and to continue working with them. Here's a few of our favorites...

Leaving for another destination wedding...

2008-10-08T16:49:00.000-07:00

Jessica and I and my friend Jon are leaving tomorrow for another destination wedding...this time we're heading to Omaha, Nebraska. We're really excited for Julia and Greg's wedding and we've been enjoying traveling around a little bit for weddings. We'll be out of town through the weekend and in the next few weeks I've got a bunch of things to blog about. Thanks to everyone who reads this, I really appreciate it.

Matt and Marisa's Wedding in Grand Teton National Park...

2008-10-03T15:05:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Jessica and I photographed our first destination wedding and we couldn't have gone to a better place. We drove up to Grand Teton National Park for Marisa and Matt's wedding and it was amazing. We stayed in a great little cabin at the lodge where the reception was and we had time to drive through Yellowstone, Grand Teton and Jackson Hole. It was certainly different than photographing a wedding in Denver or even Colorado because we were so far away. But we also got to spend more time with Matt and Marisa and their families. Which was wonderful because they were so inviting (Matt's mom makes great biscuits and gravy) and because we truly were able to see what makes Matt and Marisa the great couple they are.

We really love getting to know all the couples we work with and creating a great relationship with them and we always love meeting their families at the wedding. So spending an entire weekend with them really made our trip and our job that much more enjoyable. I know I posted a few images recently but here's a few more of our favorites...

Coors light and pocket knives are really all it takes for the groom to get ready before the wedding.

We took a bunch of pictures of her cowboy boots...because they were really cool.

More cowboy boots...

Beautiful bride...

And yet again more cowboy boots.

Beautiful bride again...

All Marisa wanted was a picture in front of her mountains.

Beautiful bride again.

And here's a few of the happy couple.

I love the happiness and excitement of their first dance.

We're going to be photographing a few more destination wedding this year and we're very excited about it. By the way we have a new blog coming in the next few weeks so stay tuned.

Jon and Holly are getting married (soon!)

2008-09-30T16:51:00.000-07:00

Jon and Holly are getting married on Saturday in Fort Collins and we're extra excited for it. We've known them since college and actually Jess and Holly were roommates at CSU and lived together for about 4 years; and Jon lived on my floor in the dorms (Newsom 1SW which I don't think will be around much longer.) Their wedding is going to be a great time and a great chance to see some old friends. Here's a few of our favorites from last night...

Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park

2008-09-25T14:26:00.000-07:00

Jessica and I photographed a wedding in Grand Teton National Park a few weeks ago (more pictures of that to come) and we had an extra day to drive through the parks. I've actually never been to Yellowstone or Grand Teton so I was very excited to spend some time in the parks. We really only scratched the surface of what is there, we didn't even have time to see Old Faithful erupt. I was amazed at the size of the parks and how the Teton mountains really just shoot up from the valley floor. All I really wanted to see was a grizzly bear and we were lucky enough to see one. Jess wanted to see a moose but we never did (so we definitely need to go back.)

I wasn't surprised about the number of people or development that was going on. Huge lodges, restaurants and gift shops. But there was still something cool about being in Yellowstone Park. I definitely want to go back and really explore more of the remote areas of the park. Here's a few pictures from the day...

And of course the grizzly bear. Which was exciting even if she was on the side of the road and there were about 20 other people there.

Second shooting...

2008-09-19T15:11:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to second shoot with the incredibly talented Jared Wilson and I really had a great time. It's always fun to second shoot with other photographers to see how they work, interact with people and create great images. The couple was so much fun and they really had an amazing and emotional reception. You can check out Jared's blog for more pictures and more about the couple, but in the meantime here's a few of my favorites...

Grand Teton Wedding!

2008-09-16T09:31:00.000-07:00

Jessica and I and Heather got home Sunday afternoon from a great trip to Grand Teton National Park for Matt and Marisa's wedding. We had an amazing time getting to see the parks for a day and even more fun photographing their amazing wedding. I'm out hunting right now so I will post and write more about their wedding in a week but I wanted to show you just a few images we created.

Jessica took this shot of Marisa who was really a stunning bride.

Their personality wasn't hard to see during the wedding day.

Jessica took this amazing shot as well...there's really nothing more to say.

Happy Anniversary Grandma and Grandpa

2008-09-13T15:00:00.000-07:00

I wrote a few days ago about my parents celebrating 32 years of marriage and how amazing that is. But in actuality they are only about halfway to my grandparents who today are celebrating 60 years of marriage. That's right 60 years together through all the ups and downs, the good times and the hardships, the lost child the 15 grandchildren. 60 years is so amazing and really I have no comprehension of how long that is. I've only been alive 26 years and married for 3; but I hope and pray that Jessica and I can celebrate our 60th anniversary together.

I know I mentioned it a few days ago but I will say it again; there are few things that are more important than marriage. Choosing to love someone forever and spending your entire life with them can make your life incredible and make you happier than you can ever know.

When I look at my grandparents and see them smile and see them helping each other remember where they put their sunglasses (or dark glasses as my grandma says) and see them spending their days together it helps to remind me what is truly important in our lives. When I see them at church together and wrapping Christmas presents or tending their garden or preparing a Thanksgiving dinner for 35 by themselves I'm reminded how important and sacred life is.

I know that they won't be with us forever (none of us are) so I visit and just sit and talk with them and lately I've tried to take more pictures of them. So please go out and take pictures of loved ones and tell them how much you love them...(thanks Zack for some great inspiration for this.)

My grandparents surprisingly have a pretty nice wedding album which again reminds me of the importance of what Jessica and I do. Here's a few of the two of them from 60 years ago and a few taken more recently...

Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad

2008-09-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today my parents are celebrating their 32nd anniversary (yes their anniversary is actually September 11th.) I can say without a doubt that my parents are the two biggest role models in my life; they always have been and always will be. What they have done together is truly amazing and to be happier and more in love now than in 1976 is really something incredible. Unfortunately I don't think marriage has the same importance today that it did when they were married so we feel so lucky to have two people we can look up to that have a solid marriage and life built on what is truly important.

I know for a fact that my parents have given me the ability to be a successful person. They pushed me when necessary (thanks Dad) they always loved and supported me and they gave me the confidence and faith to know that I can become whatever I want. I think those are probably the most important things a parent can do and they did it so well. I can honestly say that I've never met two more amazing people or parents in my whole life (of course I'm biased but I really do believe this.) Seeing their strong marriage and life together is so encouraging and it gives me and Jessica something to aspire to.

I could write pages and pages about the things they have done and how much I love them and how amazing they are but I will leave at this...I love you Mom and Dad.

They have very few pictures from their own wedding, which reminds me how important our job actually is. But here are a few of them 32 years ago and a few taken just a few months ago...

I love this time of year...

2008-09-08T10:50:00.000-07:00

I'm quite certain that this time of year is my favorite and there are a few reasons. First the weather is changing-the 95 degree days are in the past and we are getting those nice crisp nights back. In fact it's only about 55 degrees right now as I write this. Football season started this weekend and the Broncos (who will be 13-3 this year) play their first game tonight. I love football and the NFL season. I also took the plunge this year and joined my first (and second) fantasy football leagues. I got killed in both of them this week but I think I'll get better.

I also love this time of year because that means hunting season has started. I first went hunting with my dad when I was 5 years old and I've gone hunting every year since then. I love getting out into the mountains and spending some quiet time reflecting on the last year of my life and where the next year will take me. I love spending time with my dad and learning about everything from family to business from him. I love working up a sweat hiking up out of a canyon and I love laying in my sleeping bag at night listening to elk bugling only hundreds of yards away. And nothing matches the adrenaline rush of a 1,000 pound bull elk standing 8 feet away from me and bugling in my face.

Those of you who know me know how important hunting is to me. For those of you who don't know me as well I want to share this aspect of my life because it is so important. My dad and I spent 6 nights in the wilderness this last week so I wanted to share some of the pictures with you. I will continue sharing stories with you about my hunting trips over the next few months so that hopefully you can get a better understanding of how important it is to me.

In the meantime here are a few of the pictures from the week...

This was our view the first day and night...fog and rain.

This was our view the next 6 days...sunshine and blue skies.

Not one of the aspen trees have changed yet. I'll be going back in a week and hopefully they will start changing then.

This was the sunset we saw all but one of the nights we were there.

This is my dad as we were high up on a lookout point.

We spotted this black bear walking down the trail and tried to catch up to him for a picture (sorry Jess.) We were standing and waiting and thought he must have gone a different way when all of a sudden he came running out from behind a rock only 20 feet away from us. Very exciting.

The aspen trees in the area were so cool. Do you like the color or the black and white better?

For anyone who has been to the Colorado mountains lately you've certainly noticed all the dead and dying trees. There has been a huge epidemic of pine beetle in the mountains and it is quickly and drastically changing the landscape of the mountains.

This is my dad as we hiked out yesterday morning.

And of course this is the two of us after we hiked 5 miles back to the trailhead. At this point we were only about 2-3 hours from lunch at Wendy's which tasted pretty good.

Mara and Dylan are married!

2008-09-04T09:40:00.000-07:00

Mara and Dylan had a perfect ceremony and reception at Chautauqua Park in Boulder last weekend. I always love when a wedding completely fits the personality of the couple. Mara and Dylan had a great blue grass band that played the reception, their ceremony was outside and there were people playing frisbee in the background (it couldn't have been more perfect.) I've been friends with Mara since college so it was awesome to see here completely happy and she and Dylan are a perfect match. There was a lot of laughter (I mean a lot of it) and a few tears, some serious dancing and overall just a great time. Thanks Mara and Dylan for letting us spend the day with you and we wish you the best of luck. And by the way here are a few of our favorites...

I love the difference between their vows. Dylan's are messy, words are scratched out...

Mara's are perfectly written and everything is very neat and orderly.

I'd say Mara was a pretty relaxed bride. Jessica took this just about an hour before the ceremony started.

Mara has one of the most infectious laughs you've ever heard.

Their ceremony site couldn't have been more perfect.

I love this shot of the two of them walking back to the reception. They were so relaxed, casual and happy all day.

There was a lot of dancing, but nobody more than Mara and Dylan.

When is a t-shirt worth $55?

2008-09-02T09:47:00.000-07:00

When it is made from the softest wool in the world, doesn't stink after wearing it for 3 days and dries out incredibly quickly. For anyone who hikes, or runs or just sweats a lot you know the importance of a great shirt. I certainly don't make a habit of spending that much money on a single piece of clothing but the Smartwool shirts are worth every penny of that. And if you don't own any of their socks you absolutely need to do your feet a favor and buy some. So there's my product recommendation of the week or month or however often I will recommend a product.

Mara and Dylan are getting married...tomorrow!

2008-08-29T16:14:00.000-07:00

Mara and Dylan came in from Oregon for their wedding at Chautauqua tomorrow and we were able to meet them last night for a quick photo shoot. I've been friends with Mara since college so it is really exciting to see her so happy and marrying a great guy. Here's a few of our favorites and we'll have more from the wedding next week.

As promised...we have a new website.

2008-08-28T21:38:00.000-07:00

I think it is so important that we have a great website to display our work online. I know that every potential bride and groom that contacts us will check our website and we want to make sure that it really portrays us. We want our website to be a reflection of who we are as photographers and people. Certainly we can't put our entire life on there but we want people to get a glimpse of who we are and what is important to us. I think we've succeeded with this new website; certainly we'll be working on it a bit more but we're incredibly excited to let everyone see it.

You can view it by going to www.andrewandjessica.com. Please take a look around and let us know what you think. Does it reflect me and Jessica? Can you get a sense of what's important to us and who we are? Leave a few comments and let me know what you think.

I'd like to thank the team of designers and support staff at livebooks for doing all the work and helping us to create a great presence on the web.

Wow I haven't been a very good blogger...and I apologize.

2008-08-27T21:14:00.000-07:00

It's uncharacteristic for me to go so long without a blog post. And to make it worse I have a lot of things I want to discuss with everyone. I will definitely be posting on a more frequent basis and here are a few of the topics I want to discuss with you in the coming weeks and months...

1. Weddings we are photographing-we are going to have some amazing weddings in the next few weeks and I'm excited to share them.

2. Backpacking and hunting trips with my dad.

3. Fantasy football and regular football. (A little clue...I'm predicting the Broncos will win the Super Bowl.)

4. An amazing $55 t-shirt.

5. What you and I are doing to take more responsibility for our planet and ourselves.

6. Solar energy.

7. The election season, campaigns and all those awful TV commercials for the next 10 weeks.

8. Marketing ideas (some that I use and some that you use.)

9. Our new website which will be launching very soon.

10 Our new blog which will be launching in the next month or two.

I realize this is kind of a lame post but I am excited to keep talking with everyone who takes the time to listen to me. I also want to start making our interactions more two-way and I have some ideas about how to do that.

Have a great Labor Day Weekend and I'll talk to you soon!

Cale and Dorothy are getting married...

2008-08-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

We went out for dinner and engagement pictures with Cale and Dorothy and we couldn't have had a better time. It really felt like we were old friends because we just clicked right away. The two of them were so much fun and had so much energy together, I know I didn't stop laughing the whole time. We're very excited for their wedding at the end of September, here's a few of our favorite images...

We came across a pet store downtown and saw this funny sign which we had to take a picture in front of. And Cale and Dorothy had no problem obliging.

We're really enjoying the off camera lighting, there's so much more to learn but I'm excited about the progress we've made.

LeeAnn and Eric are married...

2008-08-12T16:04:00.001-07:00

We didn't have much of a chance to get to know LeeAnn and Eric before the wedding because they both live in Oregon. So we felt very blessed when we hit things off right away and when we met both of their great families. They had a beautiful wedding at Atonement Lutheran Church in Boulder and then a reception at the Broker Inn down the street. Their faith was obviously very important to them and it was a big part of their wedding. The excitement on their faces was obvious all day and the love between them was so amazing to witness. Here's a few of our favorites...

Tom and Nicole are married...

2008-08-07T15:54:00.000-07:00

From the first time we met Tom and Nicole we knew they were perfect for each other and we knew that working with them was going to be so easy. We love when we work with couples who understand the bigger picture and just want to enjoy their wedding day. Tom and Nicole had a great time and so did we and we're very thankful to have met them and been a part of their wedding day. Their ceremony was at the Red Rocks Chapel which was a great time and their reception was at the Boettcher Mansion which is always an amazing place. Here's a few of our favorites...

Heather and Brian are married!

2008-07-31T10:13:00.000-07:00

When we met Heather and Brian a few months ago we immediately knew that we wanted to photograph their wedding. They were so excited about the wedding and they had some great ideas about where to do their pictures after the wedding. As we've gotten to know them better we are even happier that we got to photograph their wedding day. They had a beautiful ceremony at the Trinity United Methodist Church in Downtown Denver. They did a few unique things at their ceremony which really showed the importance of their faith. We then headed to the Bella Sera Event Center for a great reception and a lot of dancing.

We feel so fortunate to have met Brian and Heather and we are excited for them and their future. After spending the day with them and meeting their family and friends we know what a strong foundation they have; and we're certain that they will have a long and happy life together. There's more than just a few images here because we had so many great ones...

One of my favorite things about weddings is the difference between how the guys and girls get ready for the big day.

I love this shot Jessica captured because everything was running a bit behind for the girls and they had everybody working to get Heather's makeup done.

The church they were married in was pretty cool.

Heather was so expressive and happy all day...really made it easy for us to photograph.

We found this cool alley downtown and they definitely wanted their pictures taken there.

Maybe my favorite image from the day.

Laura is graduating!

2008-07-27T13:15:00.000-07:00

My cousin Laura is going to be a senior this year (which is kind of hard to believe) and we went out and took her senior pictures. We had a great time and she did such an awesome job. She was kind of a guinea pig since I had just taken the One Light Workshop but everything turned out really well. Here's just a few of our favorites...

One Light

2008-07-24T21:23:00.000-07:00

Last week I took an amazing workshop with Zack Arias called The One Light Workshop. He taught us how to get our flash off the camera, get more creative and start using light to our advantage. He also really stressed learning our equipment and getting to understand what you can and can't do with certain things. He was a wonderful teacher and I really learned so much. We've already been using what I learned at a few weddings and on some senior portrait shoots (I'll be posting all that in the next few days.) But here are a few pictures I've created using the one light method...

We were lucky enough to have a few local photographers model for us. This is Rachael and she did such an awesome job. This picture was taken at midnight with a 1 second exposure.

Shannon from Center Avenue Imaging was also gracious enough to come out and model. Thanks Shannon!

And this is Jessica allowing me to use her as a practice subject. We're just scratching the surface of what's possible...which is incredibly exciting.

Bryan and Rebekah are married!

2008-07-22T14:34:00.000-07:00

Jessica and I were so lucky to be a part of Bryan and Rebekah's wedding last weekend. The two of them are so in love and were both so relaxed and excited on their wedding day. I think it is so wonderful when a couple is excited about sharing their day with everyone, they welcomed me and Jessica as if we were two friends and we truly felt like a part of the day. It was quite obvious that they truly enjoyed their wedding day and enjoyed having their friends and family there with them. I know I sound like a broken record but we are truly blessed to work with such amazing people. Here's a few of our favorites...

I love trying to capture some of the small details at a wedding.

Jessica always seems to take amazing shoe pictures.

Rebekah has one of the most amazing smiles I've ever seen.

See what I mean about the smile?

This was Bryan when he first saw her coming down the aisle.

I love seeing when people cry.

A very funny moment during the ceremony...

This little flower girl managed to fight through the yawning to do a great job.

Their reception was very cool.

I took an awesome lighting workshop that allowed us to create these pictures. I'm a bit behind on my blogging but I will definitely talk more about the workshop.

Thanks again Bryan and Rebekah and congratulations!

Monica and Russ are married!

2008-07-16T16:56:00.000-07:00

Monica and Russ were married at St. Mary's of Littleton Catholic Church and then had a great reception at the Boettcher Mansion. Everything was planned out perfectly and we felt so lucky to be a part of their wedding day. I always enjoy meeting the family and friends of the bride and groom and hearing all the stories about them. There was definitely a lot of love for the two of them and we know they will live a long and happy life together. Here are a few of our favorites...

An impromptu guitar session...

2008-07-11T09:08:00.000-07:00

My friend Greg is moving to Denver and has been staying with us. Greg and I were roommates our freshman year of college and we couldn't have been more opposite. But we've been great friends since that year and we have really come to understand each other very well. He certainly marches to his own beat and he's definitely a free spirit. A few nights ago he was sitting on the back of his car in the middle of the street just playing his guitar (some little girl actually came up and gave him 13 cents.) I've always admired his ability to do what he loves and enjoys no matter where he is. He was playing the guitar for no one but himself and playing because he truly enjoys and loves it.

It made think about how often I take pictures just for myself. Not for money or clients or because I feel obligated, but because I truly love photography. So I took a few pictures of him because I truly wanted to and I really enjoyed it. How often do you something for yourself just because you enjoy doing it?

Heather and Brian are getting married (and we're excited.)

2008-07-05T14:53:00.000-07:00

I'm sure I sound like a broken record when I keep saying that we have the most amazing couples to work with...but it's always true. We had such an amazing time with Heather and Brian and their love for each other is so obvious. They just got right into the session and had so much fun. Their wedding is in three weeks and it's going to be so much fun to photograph them for an entire day. Here's just a few of our favorites from their engagement session...

Happy 4th of July

2008-07-04T09:38:00.000-07:00

Freedom isn't something that we think about all that often. But stop and think for a minute, do you feel free? I've been running a lot in the last few months (to try and get in shape) and sometimes I run with my watch and ipod. It's nice to know how long I've been out and it's great to listen to some music. But sometimes I just lace up my shoes and run out the door and it's so liberating because I am free from the hindrances of those things.

My friends and I took a backpacking trip last weekend and sure I brought my cell phone (even though it didn't work.) Sure we brought a GPS and a backpacking stove and a sleeping bag, but we didn't have a tent. I know some of you think I'm crazy right off the bat and that's fine. But being gone and away from everything for so long is truly an amazing feeling. Everything I need to survive, food, water, clothing was on my back and I carried it for 32 miles in some of the most rugged, pristine, and remote areas of Colorado.

But the larger point I am getting at is do you have freedom in your life? Certainly we are free in this country to do what we want, worship who we want and say what we want. But do you? Freedom is an amazing luxury and definitely a privilege that we have. Are you free to spend time with your family and friends? Do you have the freedom to get up and go spend a month in a foreign country? Do you have the freedom to take care of yourself properly?

I would say that if you don't feel free to do these or other things than you and only you are holding yourself back. So please don't hold yourself back. Get out there and do what YOU want to do and know is important.

I hope everyone has a wonderful day and weekend and thank you to everyone who has helped me in my life to achieve more freedom and happiness.

Backpacking in the Weminuche Wilderness

2008-07-02T17:58:00.000-07:00

This past week my friends Jon (who has some great pictures and videos on his blog), Greg, Brian and I spent 5 days and 4 nights backpacking in the Weminuche Wilderness. We'd been planning the trip for about 6 months so it was awesome when it finally came together. The Weminuche Wilderness is in Southwest Colorado and we actually took the Durango & Silverton Train to and from the trailheads. The area is incredible. We spent some time on the Colorado Trail and the Continental Divide Trail, we crossed a bunch of streams and creeks and saw literally hundreds of waterfalls. Here's a few (actually a bunch of) pictures from the trip and if you're interested you can watch the slideshow by clicking here.

This was our view on the first night out.

Greg packed a giant hoagie sandwich that didn't make the whole trip with us.

This was during our hike up the Elk Creek drainage to the intersection of the Continental Divide and Colorado Trails. It really was an awesome day of hiking.

This is Jon inside an old miners cabin that we came across.

This was our hike up to the top. There were a bunch of switchbacks so it looks like some of us are coming and going.

This was during our hike to the summit of Hunchback Peak at 13,136 feet.

This was the view from the top of the peak.

Even though the goat looks majestic, they were actually all over our camp and somewhat of a nuisance.

There were so many waterfalls everywhere that it was hard to take a bad picture.

This was the four of us on our last day of hiking. From left to right...me, Greg, Brian and Jon.

This is Brian dreaming of a cheeseburger and a beer after 5 days of freeze-dried dinners.

I feel so lucky and blessed to have the time to spend with my friends in such an amazing place.

5 parks, the frog pool, a picnic, a concert, a bike ride, a trip to the Glenwood caverns...

2008-06-29T16:34:00.000-07:00

Basically we did just about everything possible with a 4 year old and a 2 year old. And we had so much fun. We spent 5 days in Eagle with our family and got to babysit our nephews and play with them all day. There's few things more amazing than watching and playing with kids. They are so carefree, they laugh all the time, they find joy in the simplest of things and they always want to give you a hug. Kids are amazing at living in the moment, they forget about yesterday and couldn't care less about what's happening tomorrow. Pretty good way to live your life I'd say. Try it for a few days, try your hardest to live in the moment. Forget about yesterday and don't worry about tomorrow. Be happy where you are and with what you have. I know it's hard to do but I also know how much more fulfilling life becomes when you are just happy.

Here's a few pictures of us having fun...

Maddox was peeking out the hole in the slide.

Then all three of us decided to peek out the slide...

Maddox is kind of a chunk and his glasses never stay on.

Taylor and I rode the alpine coaster 5 times...it was 2 times too many for me.

There's nothing better than a cookie. That's me in the background and I already had my cookie.

Monica and Russ are getting married...

2008-06-26T21:31:00.000-07:00

We headed over to Washington Park for Monica and Russ's engagement photos (their wedding is only a few weeks away) and we had so much fun. It didn't take them very long to loosen up and really start laughing. Our only goal during our engagement sessions is to get to know each other and have fun...and we definitely succeeded. Here's a few of our favorites...

Kelly and Jonathan are married...

2008-06-23T22:14:00.000-07:00

Kelly and Jonathan had a great wedding at the Boettcher Mansion this past weekend and we were so lucky to be a part of it. Kelly is an interior designer so we knew everything would be perfect and it certainly was. Here's a few of our favorites from the day...

Tom and Nicole are getting married!

2008-06-21T13:00:00.000-07:00

We headed up to Golden Gate Canyon State Park for Tom and Nicole's engagement pictures and we had so much fun. They had us laughing the whole time and they really are perfect for each other. Here's a few of our favorites...

Our nephews are great...

2008-06-17T21:18:00.000-07:00

Jess and I are spending the week in Eagle with her brother, sister-in-law and our two nephews. Taylor is almost 4 and Maddox is almost 2 and they really are the two cutest little guys. We're having a great time just playing, reading books, going to gymnastics class and maybe the pool tomorrow. Here's just a few images we got...

Jess took this one of me and Taylor on our cave tour.

They certainly aren't as tough as they look in this picture.

(Sorry for the smaller images.)

Sanya and Grant are married!

2008-06-14T16:00:00.000-07:00

Sanya and Grant had a beautiful ceremony at Golden Gate Canyon State Park and a very intimate reception at the Hotel Boulderado. Small weddings are great because you really get to know all the people there and we really felt like guests at the wedding. Thank you Sanya and Grant for allowing us to be a part of your wedding.

I love the way Sanya's grandmother is looking at her in this image.

One of my favorite parts of the day is when he sees her for the first time.

We are now 3 years old...

2008-06-10T21:58:00.000-07:00

Jessica and I celebrated three years of marriage today and it has been the most exciting and wonderful three years of our lives. I can't begin to imagine my life without Jessica. She provides me with so much support, encouragement, love and laughter. We both absolutely love being married and we are so excited for what the future holds for us.

A few days ago I overheard two girls, probably 19-21, talking about marriage. One of them said "I like the idea of common-law because so many marriages end in divorce, I don't want that to happen to me." I was surprised to hear her callous attitude towards marriage and unfortunately her attitude is probably quite common.

I certainly won't make this post a rant about the deterioration of the institution of marriage. But what I will say is that a loving and dedicated marriage between two people who are meant to be together is the most amazing and wonderful thing I have experienced in my life. Sure there are tough times, but those instances have made us even stronger and helped us to grow even closer together. I love Jessica with all my heart and I know we are going to be happy together for a very long time. Love ya babe!

Here's a few shots that our friend R.J. captured of us a few weeks ago.

And here's a few more that our friends Ross and Kammi took.

And I have to thank Jessica's sister Heather (who might be our most loyal blog stalker) for this shot.

Jen and Scotty are married!

2008-06-09T16:07:00.001-07:00

We have been so excited for Jen and Scotty's wedding at the Boettcher Mansion since we met them last year, and we weren't disappointed. Everything on their day came together perfectly (even the emergency trip to the seamstress.) Their love for each other was so obvious and there wasn't a dry eye during their personally written vows (even Jessica was crying, and thank you to whoever gave here some kleenex.) It's those moments when I truly realize how lucky we are to do what we do. To be present for such a happy and emotional time in people's lives is truly a blessing that I'm thankful for everyday. Here's a few (actually more than a few) of our favorite pictures...

I really like looking for all of the details at weddings...even the budweiser with clamato and gas-x.

Jen had a major dress emergency and she had to find a seamstress at the last minute. After some serious anxiety everything worked out and she was smiling again.

I love finding the unique things that every couple does, like all of the groomsman wearing crazy socks.

Isn't she gorgeous?

Calm and cool...(and a little nervous.)

This is Jen trying to look out at everyone right before she came down the aisle.

I love the way he's looking at her in this image.

His dad bawled through the whole ceremony.

They snuck in a quick first dance while everyone was at the cocktail hour.

I love the way she's looking at him in this one.

They were watching everyone walk into the reception and waiting to make their entrance.

Thanks Jen and Scott for allowing us to be a part of your wedding day. (If you want to watch their slideshow you can click here.)

Backpacking with Brian

2008-06-05T12:56:00.000-07:00

My friend Brian and I went for a one night backpack trip this week up Herman Gulch. At the end of the month Brian, Jon, Greg and myself will be going for a 6 day backpack trip so we wanted to get out and start getting ready. There was still quite a bit of snow so we didn't make it as far as we wanted, but we did get some great pictures. Here's just a few of my favorites...

Which of these last two images do you like better, the color or black and white?

We have two weddings this weekend so make sure to check back next week for some great wedding images. Have a wonderful weekend.

Rebekah and Bryan are getting married...

2008-06-03T11:26:00.000-07:00

We went to Red Rocks and Morrison for engagement pictures with Rebekah and Bryan and we had so much fun. Rebekah has an amazing smile and Bryan was great at getting her to show it. They were so much fun and so easy to work with (seems like I say that all the time) and we can't wait for their wedding in July. Here are a few of our favorites...

Andrew and Keren are married!

2008-05-29T14:46:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we photographed Andrew and Keren's wedding at the Boettcher Mansion and it was such an amazing day. Andrew and Keren did a few things that I've never seen at a wedding before, each was unique and completely fit their style and personality. One of the really neat things about weddings is to see each couple put their own style into their wedding day. Here are a few of our favorite pictures...

Something a little different...

2008-05-22T13:12:00.000-07:00

When I first started in photography, probably about 12 or 13 years ago, all I photographed were landscapes. I still love nature and outdoor photography and I really love when I get out and take those type of pictures. The principals of photography are all the same but photographing mountains is very different from photographing weddings. We were in Winter Park last weekend and I had the chance to get out and take some pictures. I hope you enjoy them...

I hope everyone has a great Memorial Day weekend. Jess and I are out of town for a few days and then we have a great wedding on Sunday which we will post next week. Talk to you soon.

My Mom and Dad

2008-05-18T11:54:00.000-07:00

Are truly amazing and inspiring people. They were at the wedding we photographed last weekend so I made sure to get a few quick images of the two of them. My mom doesn't really like having her picture taken so I tried to get some while she wasn't looking. However she seemed to spot me almost every single time. I don't have as many pictures of my parents as I would like so I've been trying to get more of them. My mom wanted to have the final say as to which pictures would make the blog but I assured her I would only put up good ones. So here's a few...

See what I mean about her having the uncanny ability to know when I was taking her picture...

I love this shot because these expressions really capture my parents relationship. If you know them, then you know what I'm talking about.

Anna and Rob are married!

2008-05-12T13:12:00.000-07:00

We photographed Anna and Rob's wedding on Saturday and it was amazing; we really couldn't have asked for a more perfect day. Everything came together so well and the love and excitement among everyone was so evident. My sister and Anna have been friends since kindergarten so I've known her for many years and it was so cool to see her so happy. Their wedding was at Pinehurst Country Club, it was our first time shooting there and we hope to go back.

Anna called me about two days after they got engaged in October of last year and was already planning their wedding. I mentioned how wonderful it was that they started the planning so soon. And she said something that has really stuck with me, she said..."He proposed because he wanted to marry me and I said yes because I want to marry him, so there's no reason to wait."

This simple statement is really incredible because you should be excited about your wedding; in fact you should be ecstatic about your wedding. We have been so lucky to work with couples who are truly excited about their wedding and in love with each other.

Thanks Anna and Rob for allowing us to photograph your wedding day and thank you for being such an amazing example of what true love is.

Here's a few of our favorite images from the day...

This is definitely one of my favorite shots from the day.

She was getting a bit nervous right before the ceremony and her hands wouldn't stop moving.

I love watching the parents during the ceremony because they are always so full of emotion. This is Rob's mom.

This was their first private moment right after the ceremony and there was so much emotion. They were hugging each other so tightly I wasn't sure if they were going to let go.

Phoenix was quite the ham all day.

This is my sister who was one of the maids of honor looking over her toast. She found a diary entry from 1993 entitled "Anna's wedding notes," in which she had started writing her toast for the wedding. It was very cool.

LeeAnn and Eric are getting married...

2008-05-11T22:20:00.001-07:00

I met LeeAnn and Eric at Chautauqua Park in Boulder a few days ago for their engagement pictures. If you've never been to the park I would definitely recommend going, it's tucked right up against the Flatirons and is a great place for a hike. LeeAnn and Eric couldn't have been easier to work with and we hit it off right away. I know their wedding is going to be amazing and we can't wait for it in August. Here's a few pictures...

Make sure to check back tomorrow for Anna and Rob's amazing wedding photos.

Trashing the Dress...with a bunch of photographers.

2008-05-08T16:14:00.000-07:00

There is a great group of photographers in the Denver area and we try to get together regularly. Recently we got about 25 of us together as well as 8 different models and headed to the Denver Art Museum for an afternoon of shooting. All of our models were so kind in giving up their time to come out and pose for a bunch of photographers. We didn't completely trash Nicole's wedding dress, but we did get some awesome shots of her and her husband.

I'm not sure what job field you're in but I think anyone can benefit from forming a group of peers and getting together and sharing information and trying to make your group stronger.

A special thanks of course to all the models who came out. And to Kristy, Erin, Kevin and Jessica, R.J. and Trish for bringing the models.

Here's a few of our favorites from the day...(And to those of you that have been waiting to see pictures, I'm sorry.)

This is Kevin taking a shot of someone between the rocks. (Not a shot of just the rock.)

Congratulations Misa and Dan!

2008-05-04T21:06:00.000-07:00

Every time we photograph a wedding we're reminded why we enjoy it so much. Misa and Dan's love for each other and the excitement and love from their family and friends made their wedding day so amazing. We had an incredible time and we are so thankful to have met Misa and Dan and become friends with them. You can click here to watch their slideshow, otherwise here's a few pictures. Enjoy...

By the way their wedding took place at the Flying Horse Country Club in Colorado Springs and the Air Force Academy Chapel. Both are incredible places for a wedding and we're so lucky to have had the opportunity to photograph there.

This is one of my favorite images from the day because this is what weddings are all about. Having your family there with you to support and love you.

This was another great moment, as everyone was watching a slideshow of Misa and Dan's life they were peeking through the door waiting to come in.

Jealousy, Solar Power and not taking things for granted...

2008-04-29T19:50:00.000-07:00

I'm going to be all over the place on this post, just so you're warned.

1. Jessica's birthday was last weekend and her cell phone contract was up, which seemed like a perfect time to get her an iPhone. She's had it for a week and I'm pretty jealous. A certain amount of jealousy in a marriage is healthy right? Seriously though it is pretty freaking cool, I can't believe how much you can do with it. And I can't imagine I'll be able to hold out very long before I get one as well.

2. My friend Jon (he has another blog) and I went to a solar power class tonight that was put on by the owner of a small solar company in Denver called Adobe Solar. It was really interesting and the potential for solar and other types of renewable energies is almost limitless. It's something we're both very interested in and I believe the opportunity to make renewable energy and "green" living more accessible to everyone is an intriguing idea.

3. While I was out today I met 82 year old Sam. Last year he fell and broke his femur, had a heart attack and pancreatitis all within a few months. Probably more than most people have to deal with in a lifetime, he dealt with in a few months. But he was out picking weeds today and he moved around pretty well. He told me always be glad that you have your health. His spirit was strong but was obviously weakened by so much hardship at such an old age. It reminded me that I shouldn't ever complain about a few little aches and pains. I should feel so lucky that I have the ability to go out and run 5 or 6 miles. We should all feel very blessed and lucky for what we have.

SOUP

2008-04-25T22:00:00.000-07:00

Jessica's sister Heather works for the Colorado Children's Immunization Coalition and she organized their annual SOUP (Shots Offer Unrivaled Protection) event recently. It was at the Colorado History Museum and there were numerous different restaurants from the Denver area serving soup (get it.) It was a great time and Heather organized an amazing event despite a few technical problems. Jessica and I were lucky enough to attend and take a few pictures while we were there.

Great job Heather!

Thanks Garrett and Joy!

2008-04-24T20:16:00.000-07:00

I spent the last two days at the Elevate 3 workshop which was put on by Garrett and Joy Nudd. They are an incredible husband and wife photography team and I learned so much in the two days that we spent together. Their marketing and customer service are amazing and I'm excited to start putting a few different things into practice. They are both amazing photographers and wonderful people. They just get it. They understand how to run a successful business and a successful family and be happy all at the same time.

I really enjoy participating in workshops like these and spending time with other talented people from the Denver area. We have a great group that is only getting stronger. You can go to Garrett and Joy's blog to see a few pictures from the week.

The workshop took place at Jenna and Katie's (and Matt's) Studio in Denver, and Jenna and Matt were our models for the night shoot. Here's just a few shots of the two of them.

Thanks again Garrett and Joy for giving us your time and sharing your talents with all of us.

Heres' Garrett and Joy checking out a few of their shots.

Jackson, William and Matthew

2008-04-20T21:12:00.000-07:00

Jessica and I headed up to Evergreen last weekend and photographed these adorable triplets. They are just four months old and finally home from the hospital and healthy. We had such an awesome time, but we almost needed a third photographer to try and capture shots of all three boys. I'm sure there is a lot of anxiety when you find out that you're having triplets. But the only thing we saw in this families house was love, excitement and a lot of energy. Here's just a few of our favorite shots from the day...

Kelly and Jonathan are Getting Married...

2008-04-16T19:09:00.000-07:00

We went out on Sunday night and photographed Kelly and Jonathan's engagement pictures, and we couldn't have asked for a better night. We had such a great time with both of them, and we even got a few shots with their little one Jack. Kelly and Jonathan are so easy to work with and we know their wedding is going to be so amazing. Here are a few of our favorites...

Isn't he cute?

Definitely our favorite shot of the day...

Three strikes and they're out!

2008-04-12T15:23:00.000-07:00

There is a Subway restaurant about 5 minutes from our house and there is another one about 10 minutes away. Naturally we go to the closer one more often. However the last few times I've been I have received incredibly poor service. Rude sandwich makers, they are out of certain items, long waits (15-30 minutes) and leaving with a feeling that I wasted my money. So we went again today and I said I would give them "one more chance," Jess and I looked at each other in line and said strike three. So from now on we are going to drive the extra distance to a better Subway.

Looking back I shouldn't have given them so many chances. Certainly the brides and grooms we work with can't afford to give us "a few extra chances" if we screw up. And I wouldn't expect them to. This recent Subway experience reminded me of two things. First you don't have to settle for bad service. Go to a different location, call the manager (which I will do tomorrow) voice your concern to the employees even if they don't care.

Secondly it reminds me of the importance of not just great, but outstanding and consistent customer service. (My friend Jon had a recent post about what great customer service is.) I really believe that consistency is so important in your interactions with your customers. As a consumer I want to know that the service I got last time will be the same service I get next time. Obviously this doesn't always happen, and we now accept mediocre service just because we think that is the norm. We accept and tolerate bad service in so many situations; restaurants, grocery stores, cable company, cell phone company, post office...and I could go on.

It certainly makes me recognize, appreciate and compliment people when I do get great service. And there are many times when the service I receive is top notch, and I make a point of trying to frequent those establishments.

So to all you business owners that are reading, please remember that the customer service you provide is THE most important aspect of your business. And to all you consumers that are reading, remember that you don't have to settle for bad service.

Andrew and Keren are Getting Married!

2008-04-08T21:13:00.001-07:00

This past weekend we also photographed Andrew and Keren's engagement session and after spending the afternoon with them we know their wedding is going to be great. They are both very laid back and the four of us got along great. It makes things go so smoothly when we really mesh with a couple, and we can't wait for the wedding. Here are a few of our favorite pictures from the day...

Misa and Dan are Getting Married!

2008-04-05T21:02:00.001-07:00

We met Misa and Dan in Colorado Springs today to talk about their wedding and take some engagement photos. Misa won't be wearing her kimono at the wedding so she wanted some photos while wearing it, and Dan had to dress the part as well. These two are so amazingly in love, and they have such an incredible vision for their wedding. Their ceremony will be at the Air Force Academy Chapel. If you haven't been inside the chapel it is well worth a visit, the architecture is so incredible. They also love to go fishing, so we had to get a few shots with their fishing poles. Thanks Misa and Dan for a great day, we can't wait for your wedding.

Here are a few of our favorite pictures from today, and you can click here to watch the slideshow if you want...

Anna and Rob are Getting Married!

2008-03-31T19:18:00.001-07:00

We got to photograph Anna and Rob's engagement pictures in Fort Collins yesterday and it was so much fun. Both Jess and I went to college in Fort Collins and having the opportunity to get back and take pictures was really exciting. Their wedding is in May and we couldn't be more excited about it. My sister Chrissy is in the wedding so I know it's going to be fun. Thanks Anna and Rob, we can't wait for the wedding.

A quick mountain getaway...

2008-03-28T12:24:00.001-07:00

This time of year I always start to get a bit of cabin fever. The weather is getting nicer, and I get excited about being able to spend more time outside and in the mountains. Jessica was on spring break this week so we spent a few nights at the Mt. Princeton Hot Springs near Buena Vista. It was such a great time and really a cool place; they had two soaking pools as well as numerous pools right along the creek. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who lives in Colorado. There was also a small ghost town that we decided to drive to; unfortunately there was a significant amount of snow so we didn't get to see much of it. Just an excuse to go back in the summer.

Ghost towns are always very cool places to take pictures, the old signs and buildings are very unique.

I love getting out of town and into the mountains. It is one of my favorite things to do.

This area of Colorado is very popular for rafting and kayaking, and this just made for an awesome image.

And of course the two of us...

I hope you had a Happy Easter

2008-03-23T21:35:00.000-07:00

I really love Easter, it is one of my favorite holidays. In fact this whole time of year is so wonderful, and as a Christian it is an incredibly important holiday. It also means that we get to spend some wonderful time with family and go to the White Fence Farm. We also had a huge Easter egg hunt in my grandparent's backyard. We dyed 47 eggs last night then hid (and found) all of them.

I hope you had a wonderful Easter day and that you got to spend some time with family. Here are a few pictures from our weekend.

Everyone displaying their best egg.

Jess did the incredibly ornate ones (like the butterfly.) She's very talented.

My cousin Josh is a faithful blog stalker. Here he is trying to ride a bike (actually he's just trying to be funny.)

My (second) cousin Nicole was busy looking for eggs.

Here is me and Jess with the rest of my family.

Me and Jess

These are my very adorable grandparents. This year will be their 60th anniversary, and they are both so amazing.

And this is my little cousin Michael, he's definitely a ham.

I made a pretty big mistake...

2008-03-21T21:37:00.000-07:00

I learned a good lesson this week; double check your work. No I didn't accidentally lose pictures or a report. I messed up my NCAA Tournament Bracket. I had every game picked the night before, and then Thursday morning I was checking it and must have forgot to save my final pick. So I have every game picked but the championship (I'm picking North Carolina by the way) which basically means my bracket is almost worthless.

I know in the grand scheme of life this isn't really important, but I wasn't too pleased with myself when I realized what I'd done.

In all seriousness I hope everyone has a great Easter weekend. This is one of my favorite holidays and times of year. The Church ceremonies during this week are so moving and spiritual; and lent is such a great time for personal reflection and prayer. Plus we always go to the White Fence Farm every Easter morning with my whole family; if you've never been than you are missing out.

I hope that everyone has a great weekend, and make sure to check back soon for some pictures from Kelsey and Nathan's wedding.

Kelsey and Nathan are married!

2008-03-15T16:39:00.001-07:00

When we first met Kelsey and Nathan last summer we knew we wanted to be a part of their wedding. After their engagement pictures we knew their wedding was going to be so amazing. One of the most exciting things about photographing weddings is to witness couples and their amazing families. Kelsey and Nathan have one of the closest, strongest families we have ever met. Their wedding reminded us a lot of our own which made the day even more special for us. Congratulations Kelsey and Nathan, there is no doubt that the two of you are going to live a long and happy life together.

Random Thoughts for your Weekend...

2008-03-14T17:55:00.000-07:00

I went to a funeral yesterday and on the program was an Irish Blessing. I really like the blessing, and I was just talking about it with my friend Greg last weekend. I think it is so cool when two seemingly random things are actually connected; you just have to look for it.

May the road rise up
to meet you.

May the winds be always
at your back.

May the sun shine warm
upon your face.

May the rains fall soft upon your fields and,
until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm
of His hand.

I hope everyone has a great weekend.

I had a 5-Way at Skyline, Slyders at White Castle, Ice Cream at Graeters...

2008-03-12T09:20:00.000-07:00

I apologize for not blogging for a few days, I was visiting my friend Greg in Cincinnati. Greg and I were roommates in College, and lived together for about 5 years during college and right after. He has been living in Prague and traveling across Europe for the last 18 months; so it was great to see him. I had never been to visit him in Cincinnati and I really enjoyed seeing where he grew up, and I got the official "Tour de Greg."

I also happened to be there during one of their biggest snow storms in decades. Apparently 10 inches of snow is more than enough to shut down the city. We also did our fair share of eating, in fact I don't think I ate anything healthy for about 4 days. I had chili at Skyline (which I've never had before) and I also had my first
(and second and third) burgers from White Castle.

I had so much fun spending time with Greg, seeing where he grew up and having time to catch up on the last 18 months. Here are a few pictures from our random adventures while I was out there...

Cold and snowy.

I was told this was the best view of the Cincinnati skyline...I guess I'll see it next time.

I forgot to mention that the wind was blowing pretty hard.

We shoveled the driveway, so I did get some exercise.

We also visited his cousin's farm in Indiana, and went for a small hike. So a little more exercise to offset the eating.

And we answered the age-old question..."Do horses like ranch sunflower seeds?" The answer is no.

Greg doing his best model imitation.

Bowling...

2008-03-05T12:15:00.001-08:00

I can't remember the last time I went bowling, probably 4 or 5 years ago. That was until a few days ago, my friend Jon got all of us together for a night of bowling at Elitch Lanes. It was so much fun, and a great way to spend time with our friends. I was actually very surprised how well I did; I won't be quitting my job to join the professional tour, but I definitely had a great time.

Liam, Casey and Gavin...

2008-03-02T14:06:00.000-08:00

Triplets...one year old triplets. Jessica and I had so much fun yesterday photographing Liam, Casey and Gavin; and meeting their parents. I can't even imagine what it must be like to have triplets, but Chrissy and Brian seemed to be in control. These three little guys were so adorable; it is amazing that even at a young age you can see three different personalities. Here's just a few of the shots that we took...

What a great time of year...

2008-02-29T12:25:00.001-08:00

60 degrees today, 70 degrees tomorrow...I've been out running and riding my bike this week. We have our first wedding in two weeks. The Rockies have started spring training, the NFL draft is a month away. Spring and summer are around the corner (that means no more school for Jess.) I really enjoy this time of year because there are so many exciting things coming up. And If you're in Denver you absolutely have to get outside and do something. Go for a walk or a run, go take some pictures, just sit outside and read. Whatever it is get outside.

Leave a comment and let me know what you plan to do with the warm weather, and what your favorite time of year is.

Have a great weekend!

By the way here's one random picture from a wedding this past year. Ashley is beautiful and her and Chris's wedding was so much fun...

Slow Down

2008-02-25T13:06:00.000-08:00

I was getting into my car after church this morning and an elderly gentleman was getting into his car which was right next to mine. He apologized for inconveniencing me (which he wasn't) and then said "Us old people don't move so quickly." And I though to myself, why should anyone apologize for moving slowly, especially an elderly gentleman. I quickly told him there was no need to apologize, that I wasn't in a hurry and told him to have a great day.

How often during the day are we moving so quickly that we forget why we're doing anything at all. I think it is so important to slow down sometimes and see the world around ourselves. Slow down and just think about your life, what do you want, are you happy, are you helping others? There really is no reason that we have to rush through life; stop for a minute and enjoy your day for what it is.

Skiing This Weekend

2008-02-23T09:44:00.001-08:00

This was my first attempt at mobile blogging, and I think it worked pretty well. Jess and I spent the weekend in the mountains with our family and I got my once yearly skiing in. We had a great time, my 3 year old nephew has been skiing for over a year, and I'm afraid he's almost better than me. I'll have a few more pictures in the next couple of days; I hope you had a great weekend.

Networking or making friends?

2008-02-21T16:36:00.000-08:00

One of my goals this year has been to meet more photographers and create more meaningful relationships with them. It has been so wonderful to meet other professionals in the same place as me; as well as others who have been around for awhile and even those who are newer than me. We all have so much to share with each other and learn from one another; and I have been so excited to meet so many of them.

I think no matter what business you're in you can benefit from meeting others in your industry. Luckily in the Denver area we have found a great group of photographers who want to learn from each other and who just enjoy spending time together. I am so thankful that I have found this group and all of these people; they have really helped our business grow. And I am excited about the possibility of being able to return that to other photographers and professionals in the area.

So is it networking or making friends? I guess it's both, but it just seems like making friends to me.

Tim Sanders says..."Your network is your net worth."

Have a great weekend!

Make sure to get out in the bad weather...

2008-02-21T09:36:00.000-08:00

I was going through some old pictures and this one jumped out at me, so I wanted to share it. It is so important to remember to get out and take pictures when the weather isn't perfect; when it's snowing, or raining, or getting ready to storm. We are getting to that time of year in Colorado when we start having more rain and thunder storms, and that doesn't mean you can't take pictures. Of course make sure you don't get your camera too wet, or you won't be able to take any pictures.

You certainly can't create these kind of ominous clouds, you just have to be in the right place at the right time. However the placement of the trail leads your eye into the storm, and the barrier of trees makes you kind of wonder what lies behind them. I could have placed the trail in the center of the picture, but I think it works better moved to the outer third.

Tell me what you think of this picture, and let me know what you would have done to compose it differently. Have a great day!

Christmas in February

2008-02-19T16:47:00.001-08:00

This past weekend we decided to make the final jump to a Mac; that's right we're almost PC free. I don't have anything against PC's or Microsoft, we just decided to go in a different direction and we're very excited. If you haven't ever bought or owned anything Apple it really is quite an experience. The employees at the stores are friendly, helpful and knowledgeable; something I can't say for other electronics stores. The packaging of the products is amazing and really gets you excited to open everything. And the design of the computer and monitor is so simple, there aren't a million cords, you don't have to load a million programs. You really just plug it in, turn it on and you're ready to go.

Apple just "gets it," from marketing to packaging to their actual products. Which is cool to see today when so many companies don't seem to "get it" or understand what is important and meaningful to the customers.

Here's just a few quick shots we took...

"No Country For Old Men"

2008-02-16T22:01:00.000-08:00

Jessica and I saw the movie "No Country For Old Men" tonight with our friend Jon. It's up for best picture of the year, and I would definitely recommend seeing it. It's pretty violent, so be prepared for that; but not over the top. Tommy Lee Jones is very good, and the "bad guy" plays an incredible part. It's worth the price of admission just to see him act. Definitely a great movie from beginning to end.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2008-02-14T09:02:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Valentine's Day. And too any guys out there who may be "popping the question" tonight, make sure to check our website tomorrow and give us a call.

Seriously though I hope everyone has a wonderful day (single or taken.)

Fun family time at the Aquarium

2008-02-11T20:20:00.000-08:00

Our family was in town this weekend, and it is always so much fun to see them. Our nephews love going to the Denver Aquarium so we headed there on Sunday (I think I'm only two visits away from earning my marine biology degree.) It is actually a pretty cool place to visit, there is a wide of variety of plant and animal life there; including three tigers. And yes I understand that tigers don't live underwater. Anyway if you haven't been I think it's worth a trip. Jessica took all of the shots, here are a few of our favorites...

Have you "Stumbled" upon the internet?

2008-02-08T10:29:00.000-08:00

I was reading Tim Feriss's blog (which is really good by the way) and he was talking about a great way to surf the internet called StumbleUpon. I have been using it recently and I really like it. Basically you setup an account and select your preferences of things you would like to see on the internet. Than you just hit the stumble button in your search bar and it will take you to all kinds of interesting things. You then rate the pages with either a thumbs up or thumbs down; thumbs up means I like it, so find similar pages.

The variety of content that you can find is pretty incredible, most of it is relevant, sometimes a bit strange, but always interesting. It is a much better way to surf the internet. Once you join you can add me as a friend, or just give this blog a thumbs up.

P.S.- If you are a blogger this is a great way to get more traffic to your site.

Have a good weekend!

You can take good photos anytime, anyplace.

2008-02-05T14:14:00.000-08:00

I think sometimes we forget that a great photo opportunity can be present just about anywhere. Certainly waiting for the "sweet light" or waiting for the perfect moment can produce some great pictures. However I think you can create great pictures almost all the time.

For example I took this picture last night out my back door. It was about midnight, snowing pretty hard, very quiet and serene, and there was a cool orange-colored light. I just leaned out the door and snapped off a shot; I like the eerie and mysterious look of it.

Basically just get out there with your camera and take pictures, and especially try taking pictures in situations you normally wouldn't.

The Snowshoeing Extravaganza

2008-02-02T20:14:00.000-08:00

I've always wanted to use the word extravaganza, and I think 14 people snowshoeing is an appropriate use. Jessica and I and 12 of our friends went snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park today and it was so much fun. The weather was actually pretty good, nobody got too cold; and there were no frozen fingers. It is a pretty good workout and a great way to get into the mountains when the weather is cold. We found a great cliff and all took turns jumping off (that's what the slideshow is, and it's worth a watch.)

The scenery in the mountains during the winter is so cool; the snow seems to make the mountains look bigger. Here are a few shots of us walking across the lake...

And here is the whole group.

The Denver Brass Concert

2008-02-01T22:28:00.001-08:00

Jessica and I went with my family to one of the Denver Brass Concerts tonight. My grandfather was a musician and a conductor his whole life, and he was very closely involved with the Denver Brass. His foundation is still one of the benefactors and helps to fund their concerts. The concerts are always very entertaining and something completely different; there are trumpets, french horns, tubas, saxophones and trombones as well as a piano and a drum set.

I'm sure the musicians don't make very much money, they do it because they love it and they truly enjoy it. It got me thinking about what I do because I truly enjoy it? How often during the day or week do you do something because it brings you true happiness and joy? I think too often we get caught up in some of the mundane aspects of life; we forget to do things we really enjoy.

So what do you do that you truly enjoy? Have a good weekend!

I had a very cool experience today.

2008-01-30T18:52:00.000-08:00

Barack Obama was speaking at DU this morning and I went with a friend to watch him. Let me first say that I am not a Democrat or a Republican, and I have no idea who I will vote for in November. I do however enjoy following politics and I think the presidential election this year is going to be very interesting. And with John Edwards dropping out, that means the Democrats will nominate either a woman or an African-American for the first time ever; which is pretty cool.

Barack Obama is a very electric speaker, it's impossible not to listen to him and be motivated by what he says. He is incredibly charismatic and I believe he is very genuine. His personality is probably his biggest asset. His main campaign theme is "change" and breaking away from the status quo of the last few years.

I have always believed that no matter what your political inclinations are, you should take time to listen to what the other side has to say. Not to be argumentative, but to learn more about their position. I think this is important on all kinds of issues, not just politics. I'm not sure who is going to get the nomination, or who will be our next president; however it wouldn't surprise me if it was Barack Obama.

I took this picture with my phone so you will have to forgive the quality. This was the overflow room; there were probably close to 15,000 people who came out to see and hear him today.

If you have the chance in the next few months to see any of the candidates I would recommend it. It was an exciting and fun atmosphere and I'm very glad that I went.

You absolutely have to watch this!

2008-01-29T19:22:00.001-08:00

My friend Jon send me the link to this video. There's no way I would ever do this.

Click here to watch the video.

Random thoughts from an insomniac

2008-01-27T00:48:00.000-08:00

Every once in a while I can't sleep...tonight is one of those nights. So I am sitting here at 2 a.m. watching TV, and thinking about some very random things. So here they are...

1. The Godfather is an amazing movie, one of the best ever. But as I sit here watching Godfather II I can't help but think to myself, "is it better than the first one?" Fredo is heading out on the boat, to be killed at his brother's request, Michael just slammed the door in Kay's face. Does it get any better than that?

2. I'm almost certain that the Patriots are going to win the Super Bowl. If they do, are they the best team ever?

3. I was watching Barack Obama's victory speech, he just won South Carolina, and I think he is going to be our next president. I'm not a democrat or a republican but I really like Obama; he seems genuine and charismatic.

4. I mean Al Pacino and Robert DeNiro in the same movie together, are you kidding me?

5. There are few things more enjoyable and relaxing than sitting on the couch and watching a movie with your wife; even if it is a chick flick. (That was like 5 hours ago, she is sound asleep right now.)

6. I like the cold and snow, but 55 degrees today sure got me excited for warmer weather in the spring.

7. Making a household budget is time consuming and a bit depressing, but incredibly beneficial and positive at the same time.

8. That's all I got right now, leave a comment and let me know what you think about some of these things. And if you haven't seen the Godfather movies...rent them NOW!

Oh by the way if you have any remedies for insomnia let me know. Have a great day.

Happy Anniversary Mike and Carly

2008-01-23T13:34:00.000-08:00

We photographed Mike and Carly's wedding one year ago; it was an amazing experience and it started us out on a great journey. We are so thankful to Mike and Carly and we got some incredible images from their wedding. I wanted to share just a few pictures from their wedding.

I love this picture because it is one that I kind of "found" recently while looking through their pictures. I really enjoy going back through pictures to find some that didn't stand out the first time. This was taken right after Mike's brother (and best man) gave a speech.

This was one of our favorite pictures from all of our weddings last year; I think it really shows the emotion between the two of them.

Happy anniversary Mike and Carly!

Smile at a stranger today.

2008-01-20T15:34:00.000-08:00

I'm serious, you should try it. Try it at the grocery store, or the bank, or while your pumping gas. I like stepping out of my own world and trying to change another person's day.

Tomorrow say hi to a perfect stranger. And then leave me a comment and let me know how it went.

"The E-Myth Revisited."

2008-01-18T13:33:00.000-08:00

If you are a business owner, or if you want to start your own business you absolutely need to read this book. Michael Gerber breaks down the reasons why so many businesses fail, and then lays out a great plan to make you don't fall into those traps. I have begun to implement some of his ideas, and I know that it is going to make such a huge impact on the business.

So please go out and read this book; you can buy it on Amazon by clicking here.

How cold is 15 below zero?

2008-01-15T10:37:00.000-08:00

Well let me answer that for you, it is extremely cold. I mean so cold your water bottle freezes inside your tent, so cold that your snickers bar freezes and almost breaks your teeth. The next question is why would I subject myself to such cold temperatures? As many of you know I am a hunter, and I spend many days a year with my dad out hunting. It has been a huge part of my life, and has helped to foster the great relationship between me and my dad. It has also taught me many lessons, as well as allowed me to spend some amazing time outdoors, which I love. This past weekend my good friend Jon came with us and I was so excited to have him come along and to share this great experience with him.

But it was really, really cold. And yes we did camp in a tent, although we had a nice wood burning stove which kept us pretty warm. We also had snowshoes which helped us while we hiked through the knee to waist deep snow. If you have never been snowshoeing I would highly recommend it. It is a great workout, but also a great way to get outdoors in the middle of the winter.

That's my friend Jon on the left, my dad in the middle and me on the right. We had a great time, but it was nice to get back to the warmer temperatures in town.

The snow here is almost waist deep, and all of the exposed plants were covered in thick ice crystals, it really was a cool sight.

What can ketchup teach us?

2008-01-09T22:02:00.001-08:00

"To do a common thing, uncommonly well, brings success."

This is a quote from Henry J. Heinz, he of the Heinz ketchup. It is one of my favorite quotes because of its simplicity. So how will you do something common, uncommonly well today?

Thanks!

2008-01-06T22:00:00.000-08:00

This past year has been so amazing for me and Jessica, we have met so many people who have helped and influenced us. When we decided that we were ready to photograph weddings so many wonderful people came into our lives; and the people already in our lives provided us with so much support. I have really learned the power of asking other people for help; there are so many wonderful people who are willing to offer their time to you. All you need to do is ask. So here is a (non-comprehensive) list of everyone who has been influential in my life this year.

My wife Jessica! Her support this year has been so amazing, I couldn't have done any of this without her.
My parents Tom and Lorraine. There are so many reasons why they are important in my life, but their inspiration, and their support is unmatched.
My sisters Chrissy and Sarah.
Jessica's entire family: Dan, Rita, Heather, Justin, Megan, Taylor, Maddox and Dave.
All of my aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Jenna Walker and Katie Thurmes
Jim Christianson
Chris and Katie Humphreys
Grant Oakes
These photographers all went out of their way to offer help, encouragement, support and their knowledge to me. It is very much appreciated.
All of the other photographers I have met; there are too many to name here but you have all influenced me.
The Boettcher Mansion.
All of the amazing couples who let us photograph your wedding this year. Mike and Carly, Mandi and Cory, Chris and Ashley, Matt and Kelly, Rachel and Ryan, Ellice and Michael, Michele and Lee, Bill and Kirstin and Steve and Lori. Without them none of this would have been possible.
All of our friends who have supported us in our business and who have referred us to everyone they know.
Everyone who reads this blog, it means so much that you take time out of your busy day to keep up with me.

This is beginning to sound like I just won an Oscar; but I think it is very important to thank people and let them know that they had an impact on your life. So take the time today to let someone know how thankful you are for what they have done for you.

Our (semi) New Website

2008-01-06T01:06:00.000-08:00

Jessica and I have spent the last week revamping our website. We have completely changed the colors, put our new logo on, added a bunch of new pictures, and changed some of the information. Our goal was to make it simpler and more clean looking. Click here to check it out and tell us what you think.

By the way our web address is andrewandjessica.com

Kelsey and Nathan Are Getting Married!

2008-01-02T19:00:00.000-08:00

We went to Downtown Littleton yesterday to photograph Nathan and Kelsey for their engagement photos. Their wedding is in March and we are so excited. Their chemistry together, and their love for each other was so evident (you will easily see it in the slideshow.)

Nathan has been doing yo-yo tricks for nine years; and what he can do is pretty amazing. He actually used a yo-yo to propose to Kelsey. It is always so much fun when we can incorporate something very meaningful into to peoples photos. It makes them more personal.

We can't wait for their wedding, because they are such a wonderful couple and they are going to be very easy to photograph. I hope you enjoy their slideshow...

"Plan your life in pencil."

2008-01-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite quotes and it really describes the last year of my life. two years ago I never would have imagined I would be photographing weddings. I'm not sure what I thought I would be doing, but I know this wasn't it. Somehow though, because of a few random events, I now own my own business and Jessica and I are loving what we do.

This year has taught me to keep my eyes and ears open for all kinds of opportunities, because you never know where they will come from. I learned that you CAN live the life you want. No matter where your life is right now, you can always make it better. But only YOU can change it. Certainly there will be influential people who will help you along the way, but the decision to change your life comes directly from you.

This is the time of year when we think about our lives, we make resolutions and goals for next year. We say that things are going to be different next year. I want to tell you that things can be different next year, you can make changes in your life, and you can make them permanently. Stop what you're doing (but don't stop reading this) and think about your perfect life, think about how your life would look if it was exactly as you envisioned it. Now think about what is holding you back. Now make a plan to overcome those roadblocks to get to that perfect life, to get to a place where you are happy to be alive.

It won't be easy, and it probably won't happen overnight. But I promise that you have it in you, and when you're ready; good things will happen.

Happy New Year, and here's to an amazing 2008!

Alison and Brent

2007-12-30T22:01:00.000-08:00

Jessica and I got to photograph Alison and Brent for their engagement photos today and it was so much fun. He lives in Colorado Springs, she lives in Las Vegas and they are getting married in Mexico. Their wedding photographer, Eric, lives in Utah and there was no way to get all three of them in the same place at the same time. So Eric contacted us about shooting their engagement pictures, kind of a roundabout way, but everything worked out.