Thru the lens of Laura Rassier...

Adventures in Wonderland

2012-03-07T14:40:00.003-06:00

I had a wonderful session today! Take a look!

Thank you so much Andrew and Kaitlin! Your daughter is beautiful!

Little Miss R:: Six Months Old!

2012-03-05T09:11:00.000-06:00

This little sweetie is so much fun to photograph! I've had the privilege to photograph her every three months, as part of a baby's first year package. It is so much fun to watch her grow!

Thank you J family!

Dramatic Lighting: Studio Adventures!

2012-03-01T13:06:00.002-06:00

Hello Readers!

I have been itching to have a session for the last week or so! Winter is a slow time for photographers, which has been nice, but I can't wait for spring to come! I've gotten a lot of office work and book keeping done, and have also started planning for the up coming year! Can't wait to tell you all of my ideas!

Osceola schools (and many others) had a snow day yesterday. I jumped on the opportunity and had my neighbor kids come over. I've had this dramatic lighting idea for a while and yesterday was the perfect day to do it! I needed models, and their parents needed a break. :) There are two families who live on my neighborhood that have kids, and I LOVE photographing them! Take a look below and you'll see why... they're BEAUTIFUL!

I've babysat these beautiful girls since they were a year and a half old, and now they're SEVEN! Yes, they are twins; no, they are not identical in any way, shape, or form. :) They have very distinct personalities and are best friends.

These handsome dudes have stolen my heart pretty quick! Mr J (right) is the same age as the girls, and Mr M (left) is two years younger. It is so fun to watch these two interact, they love each other and are not afraid do show it! But, boys will be boys, and they never cease to make me smile!

Daddy Daughter Dance 2012

2012-02-20T13:35:00.000-06:00

I had the wonderful opportunity to photograph the Osceola Community Education's Daddy Daughter Dance! We had 82 wonderful "couples" come to get their photos taken!

I had so much fun, and I can't wait until next year!

Playing Catch-Up

2012-02-13T13:48:00.008-06:00

Well, hello there! I feel I have neglected all of you!

I got back late Thursday night from one of the most wonderful experiences of my life: a mission trip to Nicaragua. My plan is to blog about my experience *here* if you'd like to hear more about it.

Being that I am a photographer, I, of course, brought my camera. :) Here is a look at what I did while I was there.

We had a really early morning flight out of Minneapolis on the way there... We got to see the sunrise above the clouds tho!

This is Yolanda. She is one of the girls who lives at Casa Bernabe (the orphanage I went to in Nicaragua). She has been there about a year. She is so sweet!

Sunrise in the jungle! The birds were loud all of the time, but especially in the morning. There was a rooster who liked to make his presence known around 1 am. :)

You can click on the image to make it bigger, but just in case you can't tell.... they're cows!

We stopped at a mountain-top look out thing on our way to the feeding center. We had a great view of Managua!

One of the many trees at Casa Bernabe.

This is inside the feeding center at Nueva Vida. Nueva Vida was built as a refuge camp after Hurricane Mitch in the 90s. It very large. There is more than one feeding center in Nueva Vida, but we only visited this one. They offer one meal a day to the children who come, and they serve about 150 children per meal.

They wait so patiently!

Two of the Nueva Vida girls... I didn't catch their names. I believe they are sisters.

They love taking pictures with you!

<3 This is Ashley, one of our team leaders.

One of the streets in Nueva Vida.

This is at the Team Center at Casa Bernabe.

My team and I had the idea of doing a "photo booth" while we were down there with the kids. It was a HUGE hit! These are the younger girls who live at Casa.

And here are the older girls.

And these are the boys! :)

I brought a photo printer with me and I printed a bunch of the photo booth photos for the kids. They then made frames!

The final night we were there, we showed a slideshow of all of the photo booth photos. They loved it!

This is my sponsor child Linda and I the last night we were there.

Part of what I did while I was down there was photograph some of the newer kids. These kids still in need of a sponsor. There are a few price breakdowns, but you could sponsor one of these wonderful kids for only $40 a month! Please go to ORPHANetworks website and see if this is right for you. I have met all of the kids that are available at Casa Bernabe and would be more than glad to tell you what they are like! Click *here*.

Thanks!

<3 Laura

100th Post!

2012-01-16T15:24:00.003-06:00

This is my 100th post!

I am currently working on getting everything in order from this past year, and I'd like to thank all of my wonderful clients! You are amazing!

2012 will be filled with fun and photos!

Behind the Scenes

2012-01-06T16:07:00.002-06:00

I hope you all had a fantastic New Year!

I've finally had a chance to catch my breath after my first "Christmas Rush". :)

How about a peek behind the scenes?

(above) Christmas Mini Sessions at the St Croix ArtBarn!

(above) The wedding I photographed in September!

(above) My aunt captured this one as we drove from their house to the church for my October wedding!

The H Family:: Osceola Family Photographer

2011-12-29T11:40:00.005-06:00

This family had me laughing the whole session. I've known this family for quite some time, I even photographed Bridget last year for her senior portraits, and it was so fun to photograph them all together!

I just about died when Myrna whipped out the crazy glasses. Awesome!

Thank you so much H family! Enjoy!

Altoona WI Child Photographer:: Little Miss R is Three Months!

2011-12-28T16:59:00.002-06:00

This little munchkin is too cute!! I LOVE photographing Little Miss R's family... Big Brother C got in on a few this time!

(Above) Oh, hello!

Thanks Sarah and Jim! Your little ones are adorable!

Apple Valley Child Photographer:: Little Miss A is 5 Months!

2011-12-21T10:24:00.003-06:00

This is the second time I had the wonderful opportunity to photograph Miss A's beautiful family. Isn't she a cutie?! I just love her cheeks!

(Above) Merry Christmas!

(Above) And we even got a few smiles!

Thanks Amy, Matt, and Miss A!! Enjoy!

Osceola Family Photographer:: The C Family!

2011-12-20T10:07:00.002-06:00

I love sweater vests on little boys. They're the cutest thing. And Mr M had one of the best! I met Miss O and Mr M's mom Stacey at the Christmas Expo a few weeks ago, and I'm so glad I got to photograph her cuties!

(Above) I LOVE this!

Thank you Stacy, Miss O, and Mr M! I hope you enjoy them!

Happy Tuesday!

Senior Portrait Photographer:: Interstate Park

2011-12-09T12:59:00.002-06:00

The location of your session is one of the most important aspects of our time together. It determines what I call the "feel" of your session. Urban locations, such as downtown Stillwater, can give your session a more modern or edgy feel. A nature location, like Interstate Park as shown below, can give you a more simplistic or elegant feel. But, on the other side of the coin, you can have some impressive, edgy portraits in a wildflower field and very elegant portraits downtown. Its all about YOU!

A Two Computer Kind of Day

2011-12-05T12:42:00.003-06:00

Its that time of year again, folks.

The Christmas rush has set in here at the Ever After headquarters. Orders have been rolling in and on Saturday I had the opportunity to have table at the Osceola PTA Ho Ho Holiday Exbo. Talk about fun! I hope you all had a chance to go, so many wonderful community vendors!

To improve productivity, today I have two computers going at the same time. Crazy, I know, but oh so nice!

Happy Monday!

Litte Miss B:: Newborn

2011-11-28T12:17:00.003-06:00

I photographed sweet Little Miss B before Thanksgiving. Isn't she the sweetest?! She slept thru almost all of the session. :)

Thanks Shawna for having me photograph the newest member of your family! She is beautiful!

Enjoy!

Christmas Mini Sessions:: Day Two!

2011-11-23T12:58:00.004-06:00

Here is a peek at the wonderful families I photographed the second day of my Mini Sessions!

Hope you enjoy!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Christmas Mini Sessions:: Day One!

2011-11-21T13:49:00.004-06:00

This past weekend I had Christmas Mini Sessions at the St Croix ArtBarn! I photographed five wonderful families, and they all turned out great! Here is a sneak peek from Friday, Day One...

Hope you enjoy! Thanks!!!

New Backdrop!

2011-11-17T10:59:00.002-06:00

Today I wanted to show you all my new backdrop! :) I also have a new "floor drop" that looks like hardwood flooring, but haven't used it yet.

There is still time to schedule a mini session! Please give me a call today or tomorrow before three! They're filling up fast!

Happy Thursday!

Autumn

2011-11-16T11:31:00.005-06:00

As fall is drawing to a close and winter is around the corner, I thought i'd share a few of my favorite "Autumn" photos!!!

Also, if you are interested in the Christmas Mini Sessions, please let me know ASAP as spots are filling quickly. Thanks!

Happy Wednesday!

Little Miss A:: 7 Months Old!!

2011-11-11T10:55:00.004-06:00

This is the third time I've photographed Little Miss A, and I have to say, she keeps getting cuter!!!

(Above) Mommy wanted a photo with all her shoes. :)

(Above) Dad thinks she's going to end up whistling one of these days.

(Above) LOVE!
(Above) Such a pretty girl!!!

Thanks so much! Enjoy!

The B Family

2011-11-10T13:30:00.004-06:00

Nick and Ericka, I had so much fun with you and your girls! I hope you enjoy these!

(above) I just have to mention that Miss D informed me she didn't need to be pushed. :)

(above) These girlies sure know how to have fun!

(below) LOVE! Miss D you are BEAUTIFUL!

(Below) And Miss B, Happy 4th Birthday!!! You are too cute!!!!

(above) I had to include this one. I just love it. *sigh*
(above) A trip to the park is not complete without a whirl on the Merry-Go-Round. :)

Enjoy!

The D Family

2011-11-08T15:34:00.005-06:00

This past weekend I had the privilege of photographing this wonderful family! I had so much fun! Take a look!

(Above and Below) These are my favorite! I LOVE how they turned out!

(Above) The kiddos. Although, Anthony's only a year younger than me... :)

Thank you so much Marcia, Dale, and family!! I hope you had as much fun as I did! Enjoy!

The W Kids:: A Walk in the Park

2011-11-07T18:03:00.004-06:00

These kiddos were SO much fun to photograph! Our session was kind of spur of the moment, but I think that added to the fun! Thanks N and K for being troopers with the wind/ cold!

I LOVE how these turned out! Thanks, Katie, Miss N, and Mr K!

Class of 2012:: Chris

2011-11-04T13:18:00.003-05:00

This would be my not-so-little-anymore brother. He passed me up when I was, like, in fifth grade. How on earth he is a senior this year is beyond me.

But he is, and he's so excited to graduate! A few weeks ago we did a few of his senior photos...

While I am writing this, Chris is in Kentucky. Tomorrow he competes in the National 4H Dairy Bowl Contest! The Sun wrote an article about it, and it was even on the front page if I may brag a bit. You can read it *here*.

Prayin' you do great, Buddy! Have fun!

Class of 2012:: Samantha

2011-11-02T12:13:00.004-05:00

Sam, you are BEAUTIFUL! You can't even tell how cold it was (in the 40*s, eek!). I had so much fun photographing you at the falls and at your farm!

(Above) LOVE!

(Above) LOVE!! Great colors and a rockin' senior!

Thanks so much, Sam! Hope you enjoy!

Thinking About Christmas...

2011-11-01T16:55:00.002-05:00

Its before Thanksgiving, and Ever After is already thinking about Christmas. Crazy. I know.

On November 18th and 19th, we will be having Christmas Mini Sessions at the St Croix ArtBarn. More details to come!

Class of 2012:: Cody B

2011-10-28T13:00:00.004-05:00

Earlier this week, I had the privilege of photographing Cody in Interstate Park... on the Minnesota side! I hadn't been there in years, and loved the stark contrast to the woodlands of the Wisconsin side. So many fun rock backgrounds, so little time.

Not to mention this spectacular tree!

Enjoy!

Family:: The H Family

2011-10-27T10:56:00.004-05:00

Happy 5th Birthday to Little Man M! As part of his celebration, his mom Jenn organized family photos. Here is a little peek of how they turned out! Enjoy!

Happy Thursday!

Together:: Matt and Rebecca

2011-10-26T11:38:00.004-05:00

With my wedding clients, I try to have a session with the two of them before the wedding. This helps me get a good idea of how the couple interacts together and what makes them smile.

Matt, Rebecca, and I took a walk to the bus stop for their consultation session. It may sound like an odd location, but for Matt and Rebecca, it is a spot where their love began. I love how these turned out!

Enjoy!

Class of 2012:: Lydia

2011-10-25T14:29:00.007-05:00

Lydia, you are gorgeous!!! Thank you so much for having me photograph you on Sunday, I had a blast. We had fantastic light, although it was a little chilly. I hope you enjoy these, sweetie!

Happy Tuesday!

Class of 2012:: Max

2011-10-24T15:42:00.002-05:00

I photographed Max last week, and I had so much fun! His smile was contagious. Such a fun family! Thanks for showing me the "school forest," it was a fantastic location!

Thanks, Max, Carly, and Kelly!!

I hope you enjoy!

Neon Trees and Little Man K

2011-10-21T12:33:00.003-05:00

We, meaning my tag team and I, snapped these adorable photos before I left for MA. Isn't he a hoot and a half? I just love him to pieces.

This age is so fun to photograph. They don't stay put. At all.

Happy Friday!

Greetings from the Other Side of the Camera

2011-10-20T14:10:00.002-05:00

Last week I had *my* pictures taken. Odd change of events, huh?

My website was in need of a photo of yours truly, and Renee of Renee Lynn Photography was happy to oblige. Renee was my mentor in high school, and continues to be my go-to person for all my photo related problems. Ok, and maybe some that aren't photo related. I love Renee to pieces and absolutely LOVE the photos that she created.

Happy Thursday!

Class of 2012:: Hope

2011-10-18T11:23:00.000-05:00

This past Sunday, I had the privilege of photographing Hope! I've known hope for as long as I can remember, and she's such a fantastic young woman. Hope chose two unique locations for her session, and I loved them! Thanks for braving the wind!

Can I just say that I LOVED this tree?! Hope, you are so beautiful!

Thanks Hope!

Cousin Love

2011-10-17T13:40:00.000-05:00

While I was out in Massachusetts, I went to Kirsten's home and photographed this lovely bunch! Little Man B and his adorable baby brother I were sooooo cute and fun! And Little Miss L was adorable and spunky as usual (you may recognize her as the flower girl from my last wedding.) Enjoy!

(above) It is so cute to watch these two interact! LOVE

(above) B and L, you sure know how to have fun!

Thank you so much!

Rebecca and Matt :: October 8th, 2011

2011-10-16T18:23:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned in earlier posts, I had the wonderful opportunity to photograph my cousin Rebecca's wedding. She was such a beautiful bride, and Matt is such a blessed guy.

Take a look at her special day!

(above) Prayer huddle with Rebecca's bride's maids...

Rebecca's Grandpa drove her from her home to the church.... so cute!

My aunt and uncle sang at the wedding, I loved Rebecca and Matt's reactions.

*Also, I had a wonderful second shooter for the day, Simone! The above photo was captured by her.

I just about cried when their foreheads touched during the prayer! LOVE it!

Another wonderful moment captured by Simone.

My grandpa was the pastor.... he did such a great job!

And then the wedding party.... what can I say?! They were SO much fun! Thanks so much to all of you!!
Little Miss L, you were such a great flower girl!
I LOVE this one!
But, this one might be my favorite!!!! LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!

Stow Acres, the lovely reception location! Simone helped me so much by covering the cocktail hour while I was doing the formals. She did a great job on this one.
The first dance!
Such a gorgeous cake! Another great one by Simone, as is the next photo.

Uncle Mark and Rebecca!!! So much love crammed in one photo....
Matt and his mom too!
LOVE this one
Saying good-bye and throwing the bouquet...

And, because there were WAY too many fantastic ones to fit in one post, here is a slideshow!

I hope you enjoy!

Thank you Rebecca and Matt!!!

Back Roads and Fall Colors

2011-10-11T17:46:00.002-05:00

I am thoroughly enjoying being in Massachusetts. With a view like this, how can you complain? (I didn't think it'd be that small, click on it to make it bigger)

There are several things that have made me go, "Woah, I'm not in Wisconsin anymore."

Roads so narrow, there is only one solid, yellow line in a no passing zone.
There are no ditches. I don't think they exist out here. Occasionally you'll have a sidewalk, but its pretty rare.
The road signs crack me up. "Thickly Settled: 30 MPH" Not in Wisconsin.
Reservoirs. They're HUGE.
Accents. I'm not LOH-rah out here. I'm LAH-rah. It makes me smile.

New England Adventures

2011-10-10T15:04:00.002-05:00

This weekend was my wonderful cousin Rebecca's wedding. I, of course, was the photographer and the preview will be up next week. :)
The leaves are behind in turning this year, and I haven't had a chance to photograph the foliage as of yet. But I will, promise.
So, instead of fall colors, here is a teeny-tiny peek of the wedding.

Class of 2012:: Ryan

2011-10-07T07:51:00.003-05:00

Ryan, you have a fantastic smile! Thank you so much for having me photograph you! We had a fantastic day! Enjoy!

The L Family

2011-10-06T13:23:00.006-05:00

Thank you L family! I had so much fun photographing all of you! Miss E and C, you make me smile! I hope you enjoy!!

Class of 2012:: Bethany

2011-10-04T09:49:00.006-05:00

This beautiful young woman (both inside and out) is Bethany. I had so much fun photographing her!!! She is truly a princess. I hope you enjoy!

Happy Tuesday!

Flying Solo

2011-10-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

I am actually writing this Sunday night to save on time tomorrow. Smart planning.

Tomorrow I am flying from Minneapolis/Saint Paul to Boston. This isn't just any flight, this is my first flight completely by myself. I am SO excited! I've traveled via airplane without my parents before (to NYC with the OHS Drama Club), and have flown from MSP to Boston many times. More than I can even count, or remember. Most kids have lots of car trip memories, my memories are in the air. I love it. Regardless of the fact that my ears rarely cooperated on those childhood flights.

Airports are so exciting! People coming and going. The thrill of going somewhere new, or visiting somewhere familiar.

I remember one time we had a three hour layover in Chicago. Chris and I found a moving walk way, and we seriously did laps. Down and back. Down and back. "You are approaching the end of the moving walk way." We could repeat it *just* like the woman on the recording, or so we thought. We also found a candy store that trip too. So, yeah, I've been to Chicago. I just have never left the airport.

If you don't already know, I'm going out east to photograph my cousin's wedding. My aunt and her family live out there, and it will be fun to see them all. They came out this summer for the 4th of July too, so I think I've posted some photos of the bride-to-be.

Happy Monday!

Class of 2012:: Becky

2011-09-30T12:42:00.004-05:00

The rain went away for my session with the lovely Becky! Not only did the rain go away, but it felt like summer again. Crazy.
I had so much fun photographing Becky! I hope you enjoy!

Little Miss R... Newborn

2011-09-28T09:41:00.006-05:00

I photographed little Miss R earlier this week, amidst the rain. There is something about photographing little ones in their home environment... I just love it. I also love it when my clients have ideas to incorporate or props that have special meaning to them. In these first two images, Miss R is sleeping on her mom's wedding dress. How cool is that?! I LOVE how these turned out, I hope you do too! Enjoy!

The L Family

2011-09-27T11:54:00.005-05:00

I photographed this fun family this past weekend.... can't you just hear the giggles? I love their coordinated outfits!

(above) I just had to include this one. I laughed when I saw it. Out loud. Totally priceless.

Enjoy!

A Blustery Fall Day

2011-09-26T17:53:00.002-05:00

The fall portrait season is in full swing for Ever After Photography this week! Today I had photographed an adorable newborn girl. I photographed her brother, Mr C, earlier this spring, and I have to say that she is just as cute. :)

I hope you're all enjoying this fall weather! Will it stick around?

Computer Problems and Frogs

2011-09-22T14:24:00.004-05:00

Frogs are not the cause of my computer problems, no worries.

You know its fall when the tree frogs are no longer clinging to the windows. This daring little guy posed for me a few weeks ago. He pretty much stayed there all day.

My laptop is dying a slow and painful death. It has gotten way more than its share of use and abuse. Ok, so maybe its not dying. But it is WAY slow and needs to be replaced. So, needless to say, I've ordered an iMac. All 27 inches of fantastic-ness. Can't wait for it to be delivered. Expect photos. Scratch that. Expect photos AFTER I have finally caught up on all of my personal photos that have been shoved to the back burner. I may share some of those as well. You never know.

Happy Thursday!

Class of 2012:: Cody B

2011-09-20T09:31:00.004-05:00

Cody loves sports. I'm the opposite of an athlete. In school, I was the kid who somehow always managed to get whacked in the head. Stating this fact got a huge grin from Cody.

Nevertheless, we had a fantastic session. Lit-up score board included.

I think I say this with every dog I photograph, but Badger, you just might be the best behaved dog I've photographed. Seriously. I said his name (Badger, not Cody) to get him to look at me, and he came! I've made a new friend.

(above) LOVE

(above) I just had to include these. They made me smile.

Thanks, Cody! Hope you enjoy!

What a view!

2011-09-19T16:10:00.003-05:00

I'm scrambling to find something to blog as my sneak peek isn't quite ready (it'll be up tomorrow), and remembered this panoramic. This was on my latest trip to Duluth last week. We took this rode as whim to see if we could get a better view of, well, this.

*click to enlarge*

At one point I felt like we were on some mountain in Europe, the road was that curvy.

We pulled over into the "overlook" and I hopped out of the car, eager to find a good vantage point. Mom suggested I stand on the wall. I looked at her like she was crazy. If you can't tell from the photo, its a significant drop. Her response? "I'll hold you." Ha. I peeked over the edge and saw there was about a three foot ledge before it dropped off. Needless to say, I stood on the wall. And here is the proof.

I'm such a rebel. Not so much.

North Shore Whirlwind

2011-09-16T11:07:00.002-05:00

Last night I got back from an impromptu trip to Duluth. It was quite exciting, but I'm now in the middle of a boat load of photos. (Pun intended, photos of the boat to come) Here is a fun "fall" photo that I quick took during my latest senior session. This weekend is full to the brim with sessions, so stay tuned for their sneak peeks!

Happy Friday and enjoy your weekend!

Class of 2012:: Clarissa

2011-09-13T11:17:00.002-05:00

Clarissa, you're gorgeous! We had such amazing light! I've known Clarissa forever, and she is such a sweet young woman. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to photograph you, Clarissa! I hope you enjoy!

Aliena and Collin:: 09/04/2011

2011-09-12T11:10:00.000-05:00

I had the privilege of photographing Aliena and Collin's wedding last weekend at the lovely Florian Gardens. We had a beautiful day. Take a look!

I LOVE photographing the Groom's reactions to seeing his bride for the first time.

Aliena, you were gorgeous!

Aliena's beautiful bouquet was created by Wildwood Flowers.

Love these!

Thank you Aliena and Collin for having me be a part of your special day!

Weddings, the Fair, and To-Do Lists...

2011-09-09T15:41:00.003-05:00

I received the heaviest box to date from my lab today. Seven proof books and a print order is bound to do that. Can I just say I love seeing the bride's face when she sees her photos for the first time? Priceless. And now I am wading thru the large quantity of this weekend's wedding photos. Check back on Monday for their preview!

The fair. We have a love/ hate relationship. I like the spirit of "pride in where we live" that emanates from the Osceola Fair Grounds. I love mini donuts. I strongly dislike trying to find a parking spot. And I have fond memories of watching the parade.

My favorite part of the fair just might be the ArtExplosion. No kidding. From 10-3 tomorrow kids of all ages can run around the ArtBarn creating wonderful artwork. I'm not sure what the stations are this year, but there is always really fun pottery that your child can paint. Live music too! $5 for a wristband, you can come and go all day. Find out more about the ArtBarn*here*.

To-Do lists. It seems like mine is a mile long and getting longer. How about you?

Because all posts are better with a picture, here are a few from the wedding I just completed. Enjoy!

Red, Orange, and Yellow

2011-09-08T17:00:00.003-05:00

I LOVE fall colors. I found this fun photo while looking for a different one (isn't it great when that happens?), and thought I'd share.

There are some things I love about fall: the smell of apple cider, the sound of laughter as kids jump in piles of leaves, the look of a rustic, dirt road lined with changing trees.

Winter, you can hold off a while. Please.

The Three Little Bears... and Goldylocks too!

2011-09-07T14:12:00.002-05:00

If you've been following the blog, you might remember me dropping hints about a bear photo shoot. We had the photo shoot a week ago, and I wanted to give you a look at how it turned out. I'm swamped with wedding images and getting things ordered, but here you go! Enjoy!

Happy Birthday!

2011-09-06T18:05:00.003-05:00

My mom's birthday was this past Saturday, and as I need something to blog about, HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!

My mom assisted me on Sunday at a wedding, and we both got comments on how well we work together. Not to mention how much we look alike. :)

This is the woman who got me thru countless highs and lows, and gave me the support I needed to start this adventure. This is the woman who know when to pull me out of the clouds and when to give me clearance to fly. This is my mom, my biggest fan.

Thanks, Mom!

Class of 2012:: Cody

2011-09-02T17:09:00.005-05:00

I had the privilege of photographing Cody on Wednesday and we couldn't have asked for better light! Our session was scheduled around noon, which isn't the greatest light but I make it work. Then, TADAA! Overcast! Perfect, diffused light! The sun did peek out towards the end, but in all we had a fantastic session. Thanks Cody!

What to Wear?

2011-09-01T18:45:00.003-05:00

"What should we wear?"

This might be the question that can make or break your session. I found this fantastic article that gives some ideas and tips on clothing choices. Check it out *here*.

Check out a few examples of fun clothing choices. You don't all have to wear the same thing! :)

Back to School

2011-08-31T14:14:00.003-05:00

Tonight students are packing up their backpack, setting out clothes for the big day tomorrow, and squeezing one last hurrah into summer. Tomorrow begins the 2011-12 school year. For Osceola anyway.

There is still time to schedule your senior session, Class of 2012!

Reserve your session date by FRIDAY (Sept 2nd) and receive 16 FREE wallets.

Know a friend who had their portraits taken by Ever After? Ask them for a discount card!

Project in Process

2011-08-30T17:17:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow. Hopefully tomorrow is the day we do the session I've been planning since May. If all goes well. :) My wonderful models will be my neighborhood kids and my nephew. Take a peek.

Miss E and Miss A... this is totally them.
Kaleb Bug!
Mr J and Mr M, you never cease to make me smile.

Stay tuned to see the magic!

Behind the Scenes...

2011-08-29T09:52:00.003-05:00

I was working on wedding pictures and saw a random brown spot in the middle of the grass in one of the photos. I assumed it was a leaf or something, and zoomed in to take it out. I found this little guy.

I didn't have the heart to edit him out. Vickie and Pat, you now have a new friend in one of your wedding photos. :)

Miss C... Just for fun!

2011-08-26T10:23:00.002-05:00

Miss C was here in the Midwest for a few days visiting her grandparents, and I'm so glad we fit in this session! Her mom had mentioned a couple of months ago that C was interested in getting into modeling, and when Grandma Kathy called to see if we could schedule something, I was so excited!

Those eyes! LOVE!

Thanks Miss C and Kathy!

Class of 2012:: Shannon

2011-08-25T16:17:00.003-05:00

Shannon's location of choice was AMAZING! Its been a while since I took a walk in the woods, and definitely enjoyed this one. She is hoping to minor in photography, so we had some great photo conversations.

Thanks, Shannon, for having me photograph you! Hope you enjoy!

Summertime Frenzy

2011-08-24T15:11:00.002-05:00

How is it Wednesday already?

Yesterday's session went great. I had fun hiking thru the woods with Shannon, my fantastic senior of the day. Stay tuned for her preview!

My wonderful cousin Kathy called me yesterday to ask if I could take a few pictures of her granddaughter who is thinking of being a model. My response? Of course!!! So, today I had fun photographing Miss C! LOVE how the images turned out, she's such a doll!

Because no post is complete without a photo, and this little guy is too adorable not to share, here you go!

Something Witty...

2011-08-23T13:39:00.002-05:00

I have a senior session scheduled today... and at a new location! Woot Woot!

Because no post is complete without a photo...

Here's a peek at a photoshoot in the making. I'm working on finishing two hats and pin down a date that works for everybody involved. Think Goldylocks and the Three Bears. Can't wait!

Happy Tuesday!

Monday Mornings

2011-08-22T09:33:00.003-05:00

Good morning, readers!

After being inspired by a photo blog out of California, I'm striving to blog every day!

So, here goes Monday!

Check out a "just for me" session I did with a good friend of mine, Miss Gabrielle!

Gabby was one of my first senior clients. She is going to school for theatre at UW Superior, and needed head shots. She is so fun! I just love these!

Here in the office, I have a to-do list a mile long. Time to get back at it!

Happy Monday!

Happily Ever After:: Vickie and Pat 08/13/2011

2011-08-17T17:09:00.008-05:00

I had the privilege of photographing Vickie and Pat's wonderful wedding last weekend. They are such a great couple, and their love shines thru each and every one of the photos! I hope you enjoy!

Vickie got ready with her bridesmaids at the AmericInn right next door to the wedding location. This group of girls definitely knows how to have fun! I LOVED all of the details on Vickie's dress.

Vickie and Pat decided to see each other before the ceremony so we would have plenty of time for photos, we called it a "First Look". Pat's reaction to his beautiful bride was priceless. I do admit to being a little teary-eyed behind the camera.
And then we moved on to the more formal portraits. Could they be any more GORGEOUS?
I loved Vickie's bouquet! Her florist was Apple Blossom Floral, and they did a fantastic job.

I LOVE this photo. Moments after becoming Mr and Mrs!
So, funny story. In between the ceremony and reception, the wedding party went down town in a wagon pulled by the bride's dad on a tractor. It was a very fun and unique idea. The photo below was taken right in front of their destination. The only hitch (no pun intended. ok, maybe a little) was that there wasn't parking space on main street. Which meant that they pulled around the back and parked in the parking lot there. No problem, right? I realized this about ten seconds too late. I ended up running down the sidewalk. Seriously. I RAN. I must have looked like a crazy person sprinting down main street holding a camera.

Their first dance!

Would you like to know another secret, Internet? I fell off my chair while trying to get this lovely photo. Not once, but twice.

Thank you so much Vickie and Pat for having me be a part of your special day!!! Take a peek at the slideshow below!!

The T Family

2011-08-17T10:09:00.003-05:00

I had so much fun photographing this family. I loved how they interacted with each other! I've known this family for forever, and was so excited when Claire emailed me to schedule a session!

Thanks Darla, Brad, Claire, Max, and Anna!!!!

Cousins and Summer Fun

2011-08-15T14:08:00.004-05:00

I love family pictures. Especially when they're going to be given to grandma. LOVE it. Miss M and Mr A's mom talked to me during the Polk County Fair and asked if we could do a session with her nephew Mr C. Her location of choice just happens to be one of my favorites. Enjoy!

Ok, Miss M, could you be any more BEAUTIFUL?! She was such a trooper hangin' out with "the boys".
And this little guy, Mr C, is ADORABLE. Both inside and out!
What were we talking about to get Mr A to smile like this? Football. Specifically, the Packers.

Life is too short for bad muffin jokes.

2011-08-12T19:44:00.005-05:00

I discovered this fantastic napkin while getting my "tomorrow's the big day, you can do this" smoothie. I took three.
Fantastic clouds yesterday at the wedding location.
LOVE this bridge.
I was testing out a fish-eye lens I'm renting for this weekend. Its impressive.

Stay tuned for photos of the wedding! Check out the couple's engagement session *here*.

The A Family

2011-08-10T13:30:00.003-05:00

Hope you enjoy! Thanks for having me photograph your wonderful family!

The C Family:: Three Generations of Faith, Hope, and Love

2011-08-10T13:11:00.004-05:00

This family is so fun! Thank you for braving the rain (ok, more like torrential down-pour)! I hope you enjoy!

Stay tuned for their "together" family photo! Here's a hint: two horses, two dogs, and ten wonderful people!

The S Family

2011-08-08T09:46:00.003-05:00

You will probably recognize this family. I absolutely LOVE photographing them, and take every opportunity to do so I get. :) Thanks Julia and Michael! (E, L, and C too!)

Class of 2012:: Audrey

2011-08-05T08:46:00.002-05:00

I had the wonderful opportunity to photograph the lovely Miss Audrey this week. Hope you enjoy!

PCF:: 150 Years!

2011-08-02T13:47:00.004-05:00

Its that time of year again....

Time for the Polk County Fair!
My brother Chris showed at the fair, and did great! He got a first or second blue on ALL of his cows (a little brag moment)!
As always, you can't walk ten feet without seeing SOMEONE you know. :) LOVE this family!
Lots of great hang out time.

Kaleb's second fair. :) He did great. He would have played in the dirt all day if we let him.
These are my contributions to the fair. :) Stay tuned for a photoshoot with the brown hat! Its gonna be great...

Hope you all got a chance to stop by the fair grounds and experience the fair!

A and E:: Sisters, Twins, and Best Friends

2011-07-28T11:48:00.003-05:00

These girlies are my next-door neighbors. I love them to pieces!

Class of 2012:: Kay

2011-07-22T08:52:00.006-05:00

Wow. This session was AMAZING! We couldn't have picked a better day this week with the weather, it was perfect. And the locations Kay chose were fantastic! I had so much fun photographing this beautiful young woman, thanks Kay!

Something about the heat...

2011-07-20T10:31:00.003-05:00

There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing. ~Alfred Wainwright

My Monkey had a birthday! Here's a peek at the indoor portion of his one year session. :)

Class of 2012:: Lila

2011-07-19T08:22:00.003-05:00

For Lila's session, we journeyed to Amnicon Falls up by Superior, WI. Such a fun location, and such a beautiful young woman! Thanks Lila and Julie!

Little Miss A:: Three Months!

2011-07-15T09:01:00.003-05:00

Little Miss A has grown so much! I loved the unique location! For all of you knitters or crocheters, check out Mrs I's Yarn Parlor in Osceola, WI. "Like" her page on facebook for more info! (click *here* or *here*)

Little Miss A:: Newborn

2011-07-13T10:07:00.003-05:00

I hope you all enjoy this little bundle of joy! Little Miss A was so tiny and sweet!

Sherra :: A Horse is Poetry in Motion

2011-07-12T14:19:00.004-05:00

I haven't had many opportunities to photograph people and their horses, but I love doing it! I had so much fun with Sherra and her mom Tam yesterday! Sherra boards her horse at the farm where I stayed while going to college. She is such a sweet young lady, and a fantastic rider. Thanks Sherra and Tam!

Updates

2011-07-12T10:55:00.004-05:00

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday weekend! I certainly did!

And yesterday I had two fantastic sessions, so stay tuned for photos!

Here's a peek at my holiday week/ weekend:

The Sletten Family Reunion! We crammed 54 people on this deck... LOVE the result. Gotta love self-timers. :)

Lots of cousins and family fun...

(Above) And I even got to play around with a Lensbaby!
(Above) Don't forget fireworks! These weren't actually on the Fourth. My neighbor works at a fireworks store and we had our own little fireworks celebration in my back yard.

After the Reunion, my aunt and her family came to my house! We had so much fun! And since we were all together, we went to a park and took this wonderful family portrait! I'm sure I'll post more later.

C is TWO!

2011-06-30T11:32:00.003-05:00

This adorable little guy and I had an adventure yesterday afternoon in the park. Lots of looking for bugs and saying "hi" to the fish. :)

Thank you so much for having me photograph your little guy! Enjoy!

Together:: Aliena and Collin

2011-06-29T10:34:00.005-05:00

Can you say fantastic locations?! (Not to mention a fantastic couple!) I LOVE how they turned out! Hope you enjoy!

Class of 2012:: Emily

2011-06-28T12:18:00.003-05:00

Take a look at this fantastic senior session! So glad the rain held off (it sprinkled the whole time)! Thanks so much, Emily! Hope you enjoy!

Little Miss A:: Six Months!

2011-06-27T11:00:00.002-05:00

I had the privilege of photographing this adorable little girl on Friday! Isn't she too cute?!

Hope you enjoy!

Class of 2012: Brent

2011-06-23T14:09:00.003-05:00

Take a peek at my latest senior session! Thanks, Brent! Hope you enjoy!

Busy Week!

2011-06-20T20:38:00.000-05:00

Why am I blogging at 9:00pm, you may ask?

Good question! I'm asking myself the same thing.

The answer? Crazy busy week this week!

Today: First Senior Session of the season! Woot Woot! Plus, my Monkey was here today. Cutie.

Tomorrow: (if it doesn't rain) A baby session and an engagement session!

Wednesday: A possible family session.

Thursday: If we don't do the session on Wednesday, it'll probably end up being Thursday. Then, speed thru of Up North!

Friday: Up North! at the ArtBarn!

Saturday: Another Senior Session! (So excited!) And then another performance of Up North!

To top all of these wonderful sessions off, I have two fantastic sessions from last week to finish editing and deliver! Oh, and paperwork. :/ Gotta love paperwork.

Up North!

2011-06-17T10:46:00.001-05:00

The St Croix ArtBarn will open it's children's musical Up North! tonight at 7:00pm. Please come (bring your kids!) and support this local theatre! The ArtBarn is a non-profit community theatre in a 100 year old dairy barn. It is completely converted into a wonderful theatre, and is a great organization. The ArtBarn is located right across the street from the Osceola Middle School. You can find out more about The ArtBarn *here*.

The cast of Up North! will be performing this wonderful story tonight and tomorrow at 7:00pm, as well as on the 24th and 25th at 7:00pm. These kids have worked so hard! Please come!

The H Family

2011-06-16T09:57:00.000-05:00

These adorable little guys are my neighbors! I love them to pieces! Hope you enjoy!

Thanks J and M, and mom J!

p.s. Quick blog today.... my mom's making me do QuickBooks ;) (she just walked past and told me to say this) But really, though, we went to the accountant today and I'm headed in the right direction!!

The B Family

2011-06-15T09:56:00.000-05:00

This session was so much fun! I've never done a big family down by the falls, but it turned out great! Combined family sessions are quickly becoming one of my favorites!

Thanks B family! I loved your smiles and energy! Hope you enjoy!

Location, Location, Location.

2011-06-13T13:13:00.000-05:00

Its true. Location really sets the tone for a session.

Ever After Photography strives to provide you with the best locations in the area in order to create fantastic portraits. This evening, I have a session at the falls; tomorrow in a family's wonderful, grassy front yard.

If you don't have a location already in mind for your session, let me know when you're scheduling and I will find you the perfect location.

This is my most recent location "discovery". Isn't it great?!

Cutie

2011-06-10T12:20:00.000-05:00

Kaleb's new garage sale find... blocks!

The Y Family

2011-06-09T13:03:00.000-05:00

Oh goodness, could these girls be any more gorgeous!?

I had a blast photographing these lovely sisters yesterday. So much laughter and fun!

Thanks girls!

Love is in the air!

2011-06-07T12:30:00.000-05:00

Ok, I couldn't resist.

I had a wonderful engagement session yesterday, and I couldn't resist posting a few! It usually takes me a couple of days to proof a session, but you guys were so great, I couldn't wait!

Monday, Monday

2011-06-06T09:39:00.000-05:00

Wow. What a weekend! Great way to welcome summer!

*Class of 2012: The June discount is here! Reserve your session date soon!

Two sessions this week! I'm so excited for both. An engagement this afternoon, family on Wednesday! Stay tuned!

The Joys of Summer...

2011-06-02T13:07:00.000-05:00

I would say that by the weekend, summer will be in full swing! The weather is finally cooperating, and school will be out soon. I heard on the radio that its supposed to get to 90 degrees tomorrow...

Today is a busy day of uploading and downloading. Kind of an odd combination. :) Stay tuned for a link to see what Lia Images was up to this weekend!

***The Senior Session discount has been extended until tomorrow!*** All you need to do is send me a message on facebook or email, or give me a call, and let me know what date you'd like to have your session on. Dates are filling fast! The June Senior Session Discount will be announced on Monday.

A Weekend Up North...

2011-05-31T10:33:00.000-05:00

My empty-looking June is filling up! Woohoo!

But that also means that if you'd like a session in June, please give me a call or send me an email to reserve your date.

Class of 2012: The May special ends tomorrow, so please reserve your session date soon!

Here's a peek at my weekend up north...

I had the wonderful opportunity to photograph a memorial walk for a friend this weekend. The walk raised $450.00 for the ALS Foundation in memory of Mavis Moe. This was my first benefit event and kicked off my non-profit photography service, Lia Images. Head on over to the blog and find out more about Lia Images and this wonderful memorial walk.

A little Robert Browning for the day...

2011-05-27T11:28:00.000-05:00

A Few of My Favorite Things...

2011-05-26T10:18:00.000-05:00

My all time favorite thing to photograph? KIDS!

I love kids, all ages and stages. Photographing kids is great, because they haven't mastered the art of hiding their feelings. If they're happy and relaxed, I get some awesome expressions. If they don't really want to smile, they give me the cheesiest smile they've got. They're themselves in front of the camera. I love it.

I make a point of being kid-friendly in my sessions. I talk to them before we get started. What's your favorite thing about school? (Usually the answer is recess) Do you have a favorite color? How old are you? I want them to feel comfortable with me before I bring out the big, scary camera. And then its all fun. We play peek-a-boo behind a tree. Jump in puddles (see photo). Sing songs...

My priority is giving you professional quality portraits of your child/ children that you will never forget.