My Matilda Jane Girl

Those of you who know me know that I'm obsessed with Matilda Jane, a boutique clothing line that is simply fabulous, fabulous, fabulous! I was so excited when Denise, the owner of the boutique, posted one of my recent pics of Olivia on her blog pages: http://matildajane.typepad.com/. Please feel free to check out my little superstar and do a little shopping of your own! www.matildajaneclothing.com. I'm having a trunk show Saturday, September 12th. If you're interested in attending, please contact me at jennifer@jkfamilyphoto.com. Enjoy the day! : )

the next Michael Phelps??

My son Winston is far too busy to stop for the camera most days, so I was so excited when I captured this one. We were enjoying one of the last warm days of summer at the pool. I love how the water frames his face. And what a sweet look from my 4 year old! : )

Okay, I'll admit I'm a foot girl. There's just something about cute little toes that speaks to me--hey, I have story to tell too! Look at my hot pink painted piggies! How 'bout these galoshes!? Boy, I love striped socks!... In the photograph above, I feel the bareness of the feet creates a simple and serene mood. And what an intimate story the feet share.... a young girl perched within her mother's arms. The size suggests and stance suggest innocence; the placement, intimacy.

Tea Anyone?

Olivia was so excited for this shoot, let me tell you! She eagerly played along, serving tea and cakes, anxiously awaiting for that moment when Mommy FINALLY said she could take a bite! The beautiful scenery is courtesy of my friend Tara, who is a fabulous gardener. I wanted to create a secret garden impact for the shoot, and I think her lawn is just the spot--so perfect!

Summer's End

My good friend Sara can relate to these pictures...partly because she's the mother of these two beautiful children and partly because they signal the end of summer. When I think back over these last few months, I cannot help but smile. I've had three glorious months to relish in the warm weather and take pictures of so many beautiful children. For this, I am thankful. As I look to the months ahead, I am filled with excitement about fall colors, pumpkins, hot apple cider...As my friend Tara would say, "Always be grateful for the present." She's right. Each moment has something truly wonderful for each of us.

Waiting...

I took these pictures of my friend Kelly as she anxiously awaited the arrival of her first son, Truman. Doesn't she look beautiful here? I think there are few things more awe-inspiring than a pregnant woman. We truly are blessed to have such miracles in our lives.

Saying Goodbye

I took this picture just after we moved out of our first home. Olivia sits in what used to be the master bedroom. I was trying to use the empty room to emphasize the emptiness in our hearts as we said goodbye. Doesn't Olivia's expression match the mood perfectly?

Fairie Gardens

Olivia just loves her fairy wings--she wears them any chance she gets! Here, she's spying on her brother and I caught the moment on camera--what luck! I just love how the bright colors glisten against the texture of the tree.

Boyhood Wonder

I was editing pictures in the studio today and I came across these. There's something about a child's eyes that captures the innocence and wonder of life, isn't there? With both of these shots, I was silently following Kiernan around, watching him explore the park. There's a bit of mischief in the bottom one I think, which I love. It certainly balances the serious (but extraordinary) mood of the top one.

All Tired Out!

Sometimes I wish I could let go of myself enough to enjoy summer as much as children do. I just love the way they embrace the park as if it were a new adventure, turning the corner with glee and excitement, their whole bodies moving as they giggle. My hope is to capture even the smallest part of this with my camera-if I'm able to get a shot or two of this great moment, then I feel a shoot has been successful. Of course, that means I need to keep up with those little bundles of energy.... : )

Sneak Peek

Today is Winston's 4th birthday, but before we head to Bay Beach to celebrate (yeah!!), I just had to sneak this photograph in my posts. I'm having so much fun playing around with the camera and I'm lovin' what I've created. There's just something about this shot that makes me smile. I feel I've captured a key element of childhood here; these sneakers are about to embark on a journey, exploring and rummaging through the park. And the colors only enhance the liveliness and excitement of that journey. Explore, Olivia, but just stay out of the mud!! : )

Innocence

Have I admitted my addiction to Matilda Jane? : ) I just cannot get enough of this clothing boutique. If you haven't checked it out yet, do so: www.matildajaneclothing.com. I put Olivia in one of their dresses any chance I have...Doesn't she look beautiful here? The fabric falls so softly around her frame to create a truly innocent moment from childhood.

Punk'd Out Pink

When my friend Shelley of Curly Girls Designs asked me to take some photos of her daughter Lauren, I jumped at the chance. She is such a cutie and so much fun to be around. Doesn't Shelley have the eye for accessorizing? The pink converse tennis shoes are a must have for all little girls who like to be a little punk'd out! : ) For more info on accessories, check Shelley out on winkelf.com and etsy.com.

Tu-Tu Cute!

Sweet little Ava has two older brothers, so she has learned to explore the world quietly. I just love her expressions in these pictures--she clearly loves to be all dolled up!

In the Garden

These adorable children are Gracie and John, sister and brother. We were fortunate enough to have them visit us this July and boy, did we have fun. This photo shoot took place last minute because it was scheduled on the ONE day we had rain this summer (okay, I know I exaggerate, but c'mon, it's dry in Wisconsin!). Fortunately, the weather cleared up quickly and we got some really great shots that afternoon. What I like most about these pictures is how they show the children's personalities--especially John's. I hope their mom enjoys them as much as I do! : )

Driving Lessons

These lovely toys are my Aunt Dianne's. There's just something about them that makes me think about days gone by...a simpler, happy time. The kids just love playing in them so snapping a few shots was as easy as pie! : )