there's hope...

"It doesn't cost a thing to smileYou don't have to pay to laugh You better thank God for that There's hope..." -India Arie

I am so thankful that I was given the opportunity to photograph this adorable 8 month old, because she certainly made me smile and brightened my week. This age (6-8 months) is such an absolute joy to document. They are not yet crawling away, but their personalities are so bright and playful. Babies at this stage are a perfect reminder of the simplest joys in life, and this little one was no exception. They amaze me every time.

saying goodbye..

"I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me, they are the role model for being alive."~ Gilda Radner

Yoda came into our lives almost 16 years ago, a miracle in so many ways. I never thought he would leave us and it is so very hard to say goodbye. (r.i.p. Yoda: around Thanksgiving 1993 - September 3, 2009)

sweet baby v.

i think this 7 month old baby girl is just about as cute as they come.

a glimpse of the golden gate..

just 2 weeks..

i anxiously awaited the birth of this beautiful baby. i couldn't wait to photograph him, especially after meeting his lovely parents at their maternity photography session. i think we happened to shoot on the most overcast day in los angeles history, but we still managed to make plenty of gorgeous, peaceful photographs of this sleepy little guy. thanks again for inviting me in to share this special time with your growing family!

a sunless sunset (but beautiful nonetheless)

i've met and photographed so many unique families lately and this one was no exception. in fact, i've wanted to meet this family since they first emailed me in the fall of 2007! i was so excited when they wrote again a few weeks ago to see about documenting this special time. not only are they expecting a little boy, but they are also in the process of adopting their second daughter from China, which i think is so wonderful. even though we didn't get a typical sunny california beach day, the light was soft and still so beautiful in its own way. i had such a great time with this little one for sure. at 3, she has such a big girl voice and made me smile the whole time through. i can't wait to meet the little one who is due the first week of July! thanks again for braving the unusually chilly ocean air; it was worth it for sure!