elle-mi photography, theblog

anything but faces..

2011-03-01T17:20:00.003-05:00

is the theme for this week's challenge at I heart Faces. Haven't done one of these for awhile.. and thought this was a super cute pic to enter/click on the button to see other great entires!

an update...

2011-02-25T11:29:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to let you all know.. that I am keeping busy with 1-2 sessions a week.. editing my hiney off, and running the kiddos from place to place. Our winter has been crazy busy!! I have been working for the last month on getting a new blog up and running, so I kind of purposely was neglecting this one... been using face book for a lot of pr though! LOL... anyway... haven't been doing sneak peeks of my latest sessions, just been filling clients' galleries, and then adding an occasional image onto FB. Once I get my {new}blog up , I will be diligent about updates and sneak peeks.

We had a freak of nature warm few days a couple weeks ago, and so I jumped at the chance to get out and shoot in it. Had one session outside, which was awesome, minus the landmine of dog crap we had to dodge... blek! Then I took baby girl outside to model for me a bit. It is not torture for her at all.. this kid is a natural for the camera!

**** Just to let you know... I am booked into June... and am now taking those requests for summer sessions ******

Dates start to go quickly.. so if you are wanting something this summer.. don't wait to contact me!

( I will be taking a limited number of sessions in July and August)

THANKS!!

a monsterous 2 yr old [West Lafayette, Indiana child photography]

2010-12-30T14:06:00.004-05:00

And of course I only mean monsterous.. because of his ca-ute t-shirt.... it is like his favorite shirt, so of course his 2 yr old pictures needed to sport it. Mr F reluctantly changed out of his favorite shirt ... but doesn't he look quite dapper?

and we even caught a few with his mama... Mr F will soon be a big brother. as in tomorrow, very soon. Thanks so much for asking me to take F's two year old pictures... can't wait to meet your new little pink or blue bundle!

from my family to yours[Lafayette family photography, Lafayette, Indiana baby photography]

2010-12-27T11:55:00.003-05:00

(photos taken by the talented Traci Shupert Photography)

Get your Gift Certificates now!! [Lafayette, Indiana family photography, Lafayette , Indiana baby photograpy]

2010-12-13T11:49:00.003-05:00

GIFT CERTIFICATES from Elle- Mi Photography are the perfect thing to give away to friends and family ......or to ask for your own stocking this year!!

You can gift them in any dollar amount starting at $25 or give an entire session. If you know of a new mama to be, think how wonderful the gift of a newborn session would be to capture her new little one.

It will be spring time soon.. (we can only hope!) and that is the perfect time for updated photos of the kiddos or that new family photo that you didn't get around to having done in the fall !

Contact me right away to purchase your gift of smiles to send to a loved one!!

a little Santa Baby[West Lafayette, Indiana baby photography]

2010-12-07T22:50:00.006-05:00

Mr C came to see me for his 6 month session. My oh my, how he has grown up! He is just full of cuteness and rolls. I am a sucker for some baby rolls... ( mine were always on the skinny side.. lol) Since we were nearing December, I knew it would be fun to play around with some of my holiday props and things. He really was a happy little elf... well , except for when he wasn't. But I have to admit, those are some of my favorites... you'll see what I mean.. mama's always love those 'tug at your heartstrings' kinda shots.

I just love six month sessions... babies are always full of smiles and they really start to be aware of their surroundings. Of course every baby is different.. but Mr C who is just as cute as can be when super serious... gave us quite the giggle show, with his aunt's promptings.. =)

and since he came to see me while it was still fall.... we documented this session with some cute punkin' shots too.

Thanks for coming to see me again.. always fun to hang out with you for awhile. I'll have your password to you soon. Looking forward to seeing you again in 3 months. Enjoy your first Christmas Mr. C !!

sneak peek of a lil' boilermaker[West Lafayette, Indiana newborn photography]

2010-12-07T15:40:00.006-05:00

A future Purdue Boilermaker fan came to see me the other day! Born into a long line of Purdue backers.. she has no choice, but to start cheering right away.... and so at 2 weeks old, she is full of smiles (or maybe gas!) sporting her tiniest little cheerleader outfit!

Isn't this so precious? Her mama also wore this long, long ago.. I love it when my clients incorporate such meaningful items into their pictures. I always suggest to newborn clients and those on the baby plan.. to bring blankets, outfits, stuffed animals... something that has sweet , even generational meaning like this outfit.

And our little cheerleader is also the tiniest sleepy angel. We worked her hard to get a lot of good shots. My clients always love me even more after a newborn session... b/c their babies nap for a LONG time! =).. no need to thank me.. I love my job. I'd play with itty bitties all day long if I could.

And lastly.. our little Miss B sleeping so quietly beside her little lamb. This cuddly little creature will join us for some more sessions as I get to watch Miss B grow up on my baby plan!

A big thank you to her mama for coming to see me. She had been referred by another one of my baby planners' mama. I love it when brand new clients refer my business over and over again. Its been happening a lot lately and I am getting to meet some pretty great people (and adorable little ones!)

Thanks, L... I'll have your password to you in a couple days so that you can view the rest of your session images!

sneak peek for the R family[Lafayette, Indiana family photography]

2010-11-29T22:38:00.005-05:00

These kids look like they are straight out of magazine ad.... loved their outfits. I knew exactly where I wanted to take them. I love to find new and unique spots to my photography around town. These kids were so well behaved and so compliant with enduring the super cold temps. they even smiled thru the snow!!!

Thanks R family for asking me to take your family pictures! I had a great time hanging with you, and I can't wait for you to see the many ,many awesome images from your session.

I'll be in touch soon with your password.

sneak peek of Miss C ![Lafayette, Indiana baby photography]

2010-11-29T09:54:00.007-05:00

This is Miss C who came to see me for her 18 month pictures! I met her along with her sisters a few months ago when it was so hot (at 6pm!!) that the poor girls were dripping with sweat! This session was a whole different story, as we almost froze our patooty's off!! Little C was such a good sport and we captured a lot of really cute images to mark this milestone session.

Do they have a coat like that in my size? I am on the hunt for one!! seriously- too cute!

Her mama loved some of these pouty lip faces we caught in her summer session.. and sure enough Miss C brought out the cuteness and personality during this session as well !

Thank you so much C family for being so loyal to me ! I hope to see you back in the spring for some more pictures. It is always a joy to be around you all ! Your password will be sent very soon. Enjoy your sneak peek! =)

Black Friday Sale.... extended!!

2010-11-26T23:20:00.002-05:00

To better serve you... and some of you who were out shopping all day... and not at your computers!! .. I am extending these sales until 5pm on Sunday, November 28th. These prices are only good for NEW bookings... and do not count towards baby plan, maternity, newborn, engagement or senior sessions. These are for regular portrait.. (family, child sessions)

HOWEVER..... to those who book a maternity, newborn or engagement session date prior to April 1st get an extra special goody.. (valued at $45!!!)....

Hope you all have enjoyed a fabulous Thanksgiving.... now think about getting the family back together again for some professional portraits this Spring!!!

Thank You!

Mr. T graduates![Lafayette, baby photography]

2010-11-19T11:07:00.003-05:00

I had my second baby planner graduate! So sad to seem him go... but hey there is always an 18 month shoot.. and big brother's birthdays.. and more siblings.. lol- I hope to keep seeing this family around! Mom wanted to meet at the park and do some outdoor shots to document that he is and October baby. We had plenty of leaves to play with- though the temperature was a bit chilly. We still got a lot of good images during our session and I think the boys had fun. This hat was hand knitted for his big brother, so I am glad that we could document little T wearing it too. Doesn't he just melt you with those big brown eyes?

Thank you so much for trusting me with T's first year moments. I had so much fun seeing him grow up and I will miss not seeing you on a regular basis! Maybe you'll have to bring the boys back for a Valentine's session! enjoy this sneak and I'll have your password to you soon!

saying good bye

2010-11-17T18:35:00.002-05:00

Greater Lafayette, is losing a great addition to our community. I was glad to have been a part of it. I have enjoyed reading thru the pages of HELEN for years. The articles were always so inspiring to me as they showcased women and their events and achievements in the community.

As a photographer for them, I was able to meet such wonderful people and gain new experiences. It is sad to see them go, but it is very understandable in today's economy. I am thankful that I was able to be a part of it for even a short time. It is exciting that a non for profit organization , Helen, will continue to share the heart of women in this community.

You can hear more about it here.

sneak peek for the N family[Lafayette, Indiana family photography]

2010-11-17T16:32:00.006-05:00

I had so much fun with this family. The men were all such good sports about the photography session. Actually.. I have to give kudos to all the men that endure the hour long smile session... just to make their wives happy! .. and I do know from experience.. that having great family pictures (including) our husbands.. does make us happy! Ashley contacted me to come to her in laws home to take some pictures. They had a great tree lined yard , which was a perfect backdrop for our session. Sadly, a lot of the leaves were off the trees, but along with the tops the girls had on, we had some great color pops. The two boys with their mom and dad. They had me cracking up the whole time. I told the mom , she has to be a saint and know how to roll with it, as she raised these two. I can tell there is never a dull moment in this family. I hope that my two boys become great friends like these two brothers.

Had to get one of Miss S with her mom and dad. She was super sweet and endured even a bit chillier temps towards the end. Yes, I do realize that only dad is looking at the camera in this one, but I like that they are so happy just being together as their little family. It made me smile.

The grandparents got lots of cuddle time with Miss S.. and made my job super easy capturing lots of sweet moments.

I'll leave you with one of the group shots. Thank you so much for contacting me. I had a great time meeting you and your family. I will be sending you the password soon to view the rest of your session images. Enjoy this little peek!

Sweet baby S [Lafayette, Indiana baby photography]

2010-11-16T17:47:00.004-05:00

Here is another one of my baby planners.... on her six month birthday! She is just as cute as can be! I most always hold my newborn sessions in my home studio (or travel to a client's home) , and most of my newborn sessions.. have also turned into baby plan babies..(thank you! ).. so it is always fun to mix up session locations. Depending on the age.. and the weather.. so I was thrilled when Miss S's mom suggested we meet at a park near their home. It was a unusually warmer day and I loved that we were documenting this milestone at a place where she is sure to have many , many childhood memories.

You can see how excited she is about the play equipment around her.. and of all the kids laughing and playing... it's a good thing for me that Miss S is not mobile yet.. lol-

We caught her enjoying her first time on the swing.. but I'll save those for the gallery. They are SO cute.. and Miss S loved every minute of it. Her mama, bless her heart was not feeling well during this session.. so I just grabbed the baby and my camera.. and moved about.. letting her mama rest a bit. I sure hope that your sickness passed, C.

Enjoy your pics, and I'll be in touch soon ! thanks~

family of 3 [West Lafayette, Indiana family photography, Baby photography}

2010-11-16T14:15:00.005-05:00

Had a great time meeting up with this family at the park! Surprisingly , we had warmer temps and that was good.. to keep everyone.. esp little man happy!

There are so many great pics.. I hope you'll find one perfect for your Christmas cards! Thanks J, for contacting me.. it was such fun to meet your cute little family !

Of course, I had to steal Mr M away for a few on his own.. he was such a ham.. super happy.. though who wouldn't be with a buffet of leaves at your fingertips? lol

I'll send you the password soon for the rest of your session pictures! Enjoy !

a fridged start! [West Lafayette, family photography]

2010-11-13T16:26:00.005-05:00

Some times having an imagination is a good thing. ok.. wait.. it is always a good thing.. but especially nice if you can imagine yourself on warm tropical beach instead of in an early morning photo session in Indiana.. where you can see your breath.. in the first week of November! ha.
Looking at this beautiful bell tower and the pretty blue sky, you would not know that it was actually very chilly. In tribute to a decently played game today by our beloved Boilermakers..(even though they were beaten by UofM).. this image was actually shown during the half time report on Big Ten icons. The original tower actually burnt down , four days after completion back in the 1950's. they said they'd rebuild it and make it one brick higher.. which they did and the new tower was completed in 1995. (just a bit of unwanted information.. I am sure.. lol) However..take a look at this very . non. cold family.. smiling as if they are enjoying the sun and surf of a tropical island! They are doing a good job aren't they?

Just a peek of some of the images from your session. Thank you M family for asking me to take your pictures! I had a great time and I appreciate your positive attitudes so much! Your gallery will be up soon~

A bit of Important info [Lafayette, Indiana family photography, child photography, Lafayette, Indiana baby photography]

2010-11-09T22:08:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to let you all know that I am busy editing sessions, filling galleries, placing orders, packaging orders.... taking photos... meeting new and fabulous people.. and working on some fun design projects. My work schedule is full until the end of the year.. (and then some).

.....and I am also chairman of a big outreach Christmas party at my church... planning a few holiday get togethers....trying to get our house back in order since we were in Disney World for a week...winterfying my garden/yard.... and the list goes on and on. ( I will sleep in January.. lol)

I can hardly believe that the carols are already playing on the radio, Starbucks has their holiday cups, and my mail box is being flooded each day with catalogs! Tis the Season...

This is my absolute favorite time of year... and I can't wait to spend time with my family creating our own memories.

In order to protect the precious time with my friends and family.. I am asking that all orders be placed by Dec 10th. This will ensure your prints or gifts will be ready for Christmas.

If you have any questions please let me know! Thanks so much.. and as always I appreciate your business!

Holiday Card Designs [Lafayette, Indiana family photography, child photography]

2010-11-08T08:29:00.009-05:00

<---------- front of 5x7

back of the 5x7

Fun non-tradtional colors.. perfect for those summer pics!

These above and the two below are both 5x7 one sided simple desings.. a little bit of elegance to showcase your photo!

another bright and cheery two sided folded 5x7 card design

inside of card ------------>

I am still working on getting some more designs up.... I have had several orders come in ... and you still have until Nov 30th to let me know if you want to showcase one of your session images with a custom created design!!

** I am excited to say that I have my family's card designed and ordered... just waiting for the guy in brown!**** this is probably the earliest I have ever have them done. Go me! LOL

Where did Fall go?[Lafayette, Indiana baby photography]

2010-11-05T12:16:00.002-04:00

I am treasuring this image in my mind... green grass.. the memory of a harvest subtle in the background.. pumpkins popping with color..... crisp leaves on the ground.. and my baby boy with out a coat! While we are just barely into the month of November.. here in IN , we're supposed to be getting snow today!!! I pray our weatherman got it wrong...(which isn't that far fetched).
I still have nine photo sessions on the books for November.. all of which are planned for the great outdoors!
While I love Christmas time more than anything.. I am NOT ready for the weather that accompanies it !

One fine Saturday[Lafayette, Indiana family photography, child photography]

2010-11-02T22:42:00.008-04:00

I had a great time meeting this mama and her three sweet kiddos down at the train depot. If you have been following my blog, then you know I have been using this location for about a year now! Stumbled upon it with my own kids.. and just love all the variety in texture and color that can be found down there. This family was a referral from another client that I met earlier this summer. I love when I get a request from someone that has been referred by a happy client =). I actually have had quite a few over the last several months. Word of mouth is a great marketing tool for me.. and to show my gratitude, I offer a wonderful referral program - you can read about it here.

Thanks M for asking me to take pics of your family! I enjoyed your session and will be in touch very soon with the password for your gallery! I hope you liked a little peek of your session images!

sneak peek for the N family[West Lafayette, Indiana family photography,child photography]

2010-11-01T23:09:00.003-04:00

This is such a sweet, sweet family! I had a great time during their session as I always do with them. This was the 3rd year that I have had the pleasure of taking their fall photos. This year was very exciting and I was so honored to meet the two newest N sisters... just part of their family for seven weeks at the time of our session. One would never know they haven't been together forever... Miss M and H blended so seamlessly and perfectly right in with their new siblings, P, A and C. I enjoyed so much watching their interactions and just seeing the pure joy in the hearts of each one of these family members and capturing the smiles on their faces.

It has been so wonderful to watch this journey for you unfold as God has brought you all together , blessing you with one another. I am so happy for you ! Thank you again, for trusting me to capture your family's moments.

I am changing the way I post sneaks up a bit as I am in the midst of my busy season. Rather then post a sneak peek of images and then follow up with your gallery a bit later.. I am going to be working rather quickly to get everything edited, so that I may give you just a glimpse of your session here on my blog. Within a day or two, I will then have your entire gallery up and will send you a password for viewing it. As the holidays approach and life gets busier for both of us, I want to be sure that you have plenty of time for reviewing your photos as well as ample time for the processing of your order, card creations and other projects that you may wish to have to give as gifts.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to email me. I am currently booking for January , so if you are interested in a session, please contact me soon to ensure your choice of open dates.

Thank you so much !!

Sneak Peek for the R family[West Lafayette, Indiana family photography]

2010-10-26T02:39:00.007-04:00

I was thrilled when J asked me if I would take her family's pictures! Such a sweet , sweet person she is ..still after not seeing her for like 10 years! wait.... more like over 15 years! yikes!! lol I was so excited to meet her little family. Her daughter is just like her mama.. sweet as can be.. and a little sassy too! I always like to give my clients a variety in their images and so I share some variations in my editing depending on how I feel the image will be enhanced the best. I am a sucker for b/w , as I feel they can evoke so much emotion just out of a single image!

Congratulations to J and R on your cute little family. I can tell how proud of this girl you are. She is quite the young lady and I am sure it is because of you two. Keep up the good work!

Had to laugh during this part of our session.... what 10 year old wouldn't want to see mom and dad get all mushy gushy?

Can you hear the "EEEEEWWWW" coming thru this picture?? lol

Thanks so much for having me capture your family's moments. It was such fun ! Enjoy your peek and I'll have the images up in your gallery soon.

Miss A - Jeff High School [Lafayette, Indiana senior photography]

2010-10-25T16:52:00.002-04:00

I love senior sessions! I always have so much fun with these 'kids' and their moms. Miss A was cracking me up the whole time- she is quite possibly one of the funniest people I have ever met!
This senior gal keeps busy as a cheerleader, softball player, hosting a morning radio show, playing leads in musicals and yes.. folks.. she plays the cowbell in the girl's choir. Those are just a few of the activities that keep this girl hoppin'. She has her eyes set to attend BSU to major in education. I think she will be a fantastic teacher one day! I know her classroom will always have laughter , that is for sure.

Through the quest for leaves, the inmates crossing, and the local -yokal that wanted to join in our session- I had a

great time hanging out with this super senior. I hope you enjoy your sneak peek and I'll have the rest of your images up soon!
Stay Classy Miss A ! =)

Brother-Sister [West Lafayette, Indiana child photography, family photography]

2010-10-24T16:37:00.006-04:00

You would never know by the gorgeous sunlight streaming thru these images that it was a shivery kind of morning when I met these two kiddos. Poor things.. had to keep them hoppin' and moving around to keep their blood flowing! They were such sports and I think they kinda had some fun too (at least by the end when the soccer ball came out) Mr N is a big athlete.. like 12 sport athlete.. (is there such a thing?) . He is in his last year of middle school and sounds like he will continue to keep his parents busy as he goes from team to team. I joked with him that this was a just a little preview to senior pictures.. ( I know Mom... don't want him to grow up too fast) Maybe I'll see him back in 5 years? N was a great guy to work with.

Meet Miss G.. is as cute as can be.. with a bit of sass too! She was a great sport too, as the ground was wet and leaves were slimy- but she didn't complain! lol

She keeps herself busy too with all kinds of activities. My life fast forwarded 3 years from now, when we are shuffling our crew around .

Look at those eyes.... and her smile is fantastic.. but I made her do a serious one too!

Sibling Love! Mom and Dad , I hope that you enjoy your sneak peek and I thank you so much for asking me to capture this time in your kids' lives. It was so great to meet you all. I'll have your gallery filled very soon. Please watch your email for the password!

Sneak Peek for the A family:[Lafayette Indiana family, Lafayette, Indiana child photography]

2010-10-23T21:58:00.007-04:00

Met up with this gorgeous family at one of my favorite spots! They were so much fun. I know I say this all the time.. but I really *love* my job. I love getting to meet new people and being able to hang out with them a bit. I love learning about their lives and witnessing family dynamics. These guys were full of laughter and the love for each other just ooozed out of each one of them. I learned that this wonderful homeschooling clan recently moved to IN from Canada! I found out that they breed super adorable and amazing labradoodles. I am already itching for a four-legged puppy session one day!

There beautiful children are super smart too~ and that little guy... is quite the jokester!

bet ya can't tell?

I have been going thru zillions of images.. and oh, my there are so many fabulous ones. The above is one of my favorites. LOVE what is going on here , which is just so them. It makes me smile and laugh out loud, ever time I see it.

Thank you G, for finding me and having me capture your family's moments. I'll have your gallery up very soon.

teeny tiny guy[Lafayette, Indiana newborn photography]

2010-10-20T09:23:00.005-04:00

I got to snuggle with Mr . A at his home last week. He was just eight days old and surprisingly wide awake for most of our session. Alas.. modeling was hard on him, and by close to the end, he was completely tuckered out. Mom's always love it when I work their babies hard.. I get emails later in the day saying how they slept unusually long! .. Just trying to help a new mom out! =)

Love this one of baby and mama.... such sweet and tender moments. *LOVE* his little wrinkles.

of course I had to do a punkin hat.. since he was an October baby.

Thanks so much for having me come capture the sweet newness of your little guy... here's hoping he stays looking like this a little longer.. and if not, we captured some great memories of the time that he was so itty bitty.. teeny tiny. small.

I'll have your gallery up real soon. Thanks again!

Custom Cards-keeping the tradition[Lafayette, Indiana family photography]

2010-10-19T17:28:00.008-04:00

front of folded 5x7

<-----------

inside spread is below

sweet and simple one sided 5x7 cards

celebrate with a retro style

front of folded 5x7

<---------

inside of card --------->

Tis' the Season..[Lafayette Family photography, West Lafayette family photography]

2010-10-19T10:53:00.010-04:00

front of 5x7 size

back---->

front

<-----

inside spread of 5x7 folded card below

one sided 5x7 sized cards

front:

back ---->

I am getting orders for custom designed cards every other day.. more sample designs to come! Contact me if you want to see an image from your past/present /or future session showcased in one of these unique designs !

(more designs to come.. )

fun and games[Lafayette, Indiana family photography]

2010-10-12T23:50:00.006-04:00

Had so much fun meeting K and M the other day. She was so apologetic when I arrived, b/c when she scheduled her session, she had no idea that the Colts were playing. Not a big deal for me as I don't really care much for the hometown team.. but her man had the game on.. and it was a great backdrop for our session! I was thrilled when K contacted me this summer and said she and her guy were going to buy a house and asked if I could come take some photos for them. They are such a fun couple. They laughed and laughed and just had a blast together. I love being around people that are so in love. Congratulations to you both!

Thanks again for showing me around your adorable home and having me capture you two enjoying being together. oh.. yes.. and meeting Travis the cat was a highlight. I am still laughing. You guys are too cute ! I'll have the rest up in your gallery soon.. be on the look out for your password!!

Senior session! [Lafayette, Indiana high school senior photography, Harrison High School]

2010-10-10T22:15:00.011-04:00

Meet Miss M... Harrison High School Senior!! Had an awesome time with M and her mom-what a hoot they are! I don't know how they'll ever survive being a part once M heads off to school. She is such a cool young woman.. even if she is considering that In school down south.. don't worry.. I won't hold it against you! Best of Luck as you finish out the rest of your senior year and start the next phase in your life! You Rock girl....

M is one of my senior reps for Harrison High School. I have three of the area schools covered but am in need of some one to serve as a representative for West Lafayette HS, Benton Central HS, and Central Catholic HS. If you are or know someone that would be interested in serving as a rep , contact me right away for details on this exciting opportunity!!

What's for Dinner [photography challenge]

2010-10-04T11:44:00.002-04:00

This is not actually what I am having for dinner tonight.. (seeing as it is 11am ).. but it IS what we had on Thursday night. I was so proud of my culinary skills.. b/c really most of the time it is my hubby who does the cooking.. that I snapped some pics.
I give you Chicken Curry, Stir-fried vegies, cuc and tom salad w/feta and a side (or two or three) of naan.

To see more fabulous entries.. and maybe an idea for YOUR dinner tonight.. click below:

[Lafayette, Indiana family photography, baby photography, child photography]

2010-10-03T14:50:00.001-04:00

a new challenge

2010-09-28T17:52:00.002-04:00

Thought about entering this one.. catagory was 'chalk'......

cute cousins[Lafayette, child photography, family photography]

2010-09-27T09:22:00.010-04:00

Met up with two siblings and their (two) kids each.. lots of littles running around lots of fun. I can't believe how well behaved they all were. Several great pics of the kids together... all looking the same way, but many of them with expressions on their faces like "lady.. what the heck are you doing and why do we have to sit here?" I think their expressions are so fitting for the ages.. and I love the b/w ones too.

This one cracks me up.. Miss L is quite the leader of this crew... what a cutie she is!

Here is just one, but I tried to get grandma in with all of her grand kids.. great memories captured!

and I'll leave you with one of Miss H... would you look at those eyes?? I didn't touch them in my editing!! Gorgeous!

Thanks so much for the M and Mt families for asking me to capture all your cuties. I had a great time and I hope that will have some great photos to treasure for years to come!

fun family[West Lafayette, Indiana family photography, child photography]

2010-09-21T22:19:00.013-04:00

I love. love. what I do. I love to meet people. I love to kinda be a "fly on the wall" so to speak as families interact with one another. I can always pick up on the dynamics of a family pretty quickly. Lucky for me .. all of my clients are wonderful... and this family was no exception. I can tell that this family's home is full of tons of laughter.. jokes.. pranks... all kinds of fun.

I would totally believe you if you told me that this brother and sister were the best of friends. That they never fought. The spunky-ness of Miss E was just enough to rile up big brother O.. however, he was Mr. Cool... and fought back just like a big brother should... with just a little tease. and a whole lot of care. I can tell he is a protector of his littls sis. .... and he better be... Mom and Dad you better watch out when those boys start knockin' on your door...

and look at this guy...those eyes are gonna melt a few hearts down the road... I'm just sayin'....

Seriously, Miss E and Mr. O were so well behaved and pleasantly endured my camera pointing after their every move!! Got a couple of the girls together just as the sun was starting to set...

Gotta love a fun picture like this one.... wouldn't thing look great real big on a canvas?

great conversation piece for sure!!!

Thanks so much W family! I had a great time meeting you and spending some time capturing your family's moments. There are so many fabulous pictures, I hope that you will find many that you will treasure. I'll be in touch with the password very soon. Until then, enjoy your sneak peek!!

an itty bitty[West Lafayette, Indiana newborn photography]

2010-09-20T17:08:00.013-04:00

Look at who I got to spend the morning with.... meet Mr O who is all of about 7 days old here!! Just so tiny and fresh and new.. and holy cow, was he wide awake!! For most of his session. (this one was taken at the end.. after his modeling debut wore him out.. lol) Isn't he just the sweetest?

When I saw one of his mom's tatt's peeking through her sleeve.. I asked if she would mind changing into something and getting some pics taken with a bare baby... LOVE how they turned out. I have a whole series of mom and nekid baby too... super sweet !

Congratulations on your little guy.. he is just the cutest.. and I know you are going to be a fabulous mama! Thanks for coming to see me and allowing me to take his first pictures!

I'll be in touch soon. Enjoy your sneak peek!!

photo fun[Lafayette, Indiana child photography]

2010-09-20T01:18:00.002-04:00

This week's challenge.. :Smirk:

Well I belong to a photographer's forum that has weekly challenges. I always love looking at the entries.. love being inspired and learn a lot.. however I have never entered until now. Thought this was the perfect image for this week's challenge!!

tutus and tea parties[West Lafayette, Indiana baby, child photography]

2010-09-19T17:02:00.008-04:00

This pretty little lady came to visit me all the way from Tokyo! This was her first trip to the states to visit with her extended family.. and what a wonderful celebration it was. Miss A was just over one and full of smiles. She and her two cousins were dressed all alike in their 'cake' dresses in honor of their grandma 'cakes'. Loved that!!

After awhile we got out the tutus , the hair bows and pearls and had ourselves a dress up party. Miss A who was such a good model, took some time out to stop and smell the flowers!

Prior to dress up Miss A was a gem for my camera... lots more like this for sure!

and younger sister Miss L was super sweet as well. I had so much fun with these little ladies. I just know that Grandma had a great time with all her girls home together.

Great Grandma even joined in the tea party... I am sure you will all treasure these beautiful moments captured that morning.

Thanks so much B, for asking me to come join you in your visit. I have so many wonderful images from your session, that I hope they bring smiles and joy to you when you see them, just as they did for me as I was taking them. Congratulations on the arrival of Miss A.. what a wonderful blessing she is to you and your entire family!!

A fun night out![Lafayette, Indiana baby photography, child photography, Lafayette, Indiana family photography]

2010-09-17T15:25:00.002-04:00

ELLE-MI PHOTOGRAPHY AT THE GALLERY WALK

I am so excited to invite you to come down to MAIN STREET tonight... from 6-10pm for the September Gallery Walk.

If you have never been, it is so much fun.. all of the cute and unique shops will be open late. There will be special deals on fall decor and other great items. Many stores have local artists that are performing or crafting right on location. Most shops will have yummy snacks and some will have tasty beverages too.

My family loves to stroll down Main Street and browse into the windows.. ok, and even spend a little $$ on cute -have-to -have things!!

If you are looking for something to do tonight.. head on down and see me. I'll be a featured artist at TWO TULIPS right on Main Street next to Alley Flowers. There will be drawings, prizes .. you could WIN BIG !!!

adorable little Miss M[Lafayette Indiana child photography,Lafayette Indiana baby photography]

2010-09-16T22:40:00.007-04:00

I was thrilled to meet Miss M and her sweet mama. They came all the way to visit me from California. (ok.. they were visiting their family) but since I had done a session earlier this summer with Miss M's cousins.. they requested a session to celebrate her big 2 year old milestone. She was just as cute as can be. She stuck close to mama for awhile.. so I got lots of great bonding shots like this one.

I love two year old sessions.. they keep me running.. and they are always thinking....

"lady, why do you have that big black thing in front of your face following me everywhere?"

well.. it is to get shots like this one above.. and to catch little doing this ... below.....

Thank you to E for spending some time with me and allowing me to capture sweet little M as she roamed about. It was great fun! =) I will be emailing you the password very soon so that you can view all the images from your session.

this makes my heart happy[Lafayette, Indiana family photography]

2010-09-14T00:01:00.004-04:00

I was packaging several orders for clients today and it always makes me smile. As I was compiling some CD's for people I enjoy looking back through the images that I have taken. It is images like this one above that spawned my passion for this business. This is why I can't wait to get that new inquiry in my inbox. I *love* meeting people. and I *love* being able to capture their family moments and leave them with beautifully treasured keepsakes for years to come.

A huge thank you to all of my past clients for entrusting me with your children, your family, your relationships.. and allowing me to turn your moments into memories.

To my future clients.... I can't wait to meet you and capture your world through my lens. It's gonna be a blast!!

and baby makes 3[Lafayette, Indiana baby photography, family photography]

2010-09-12T10:08:00.014-04:00

Had a great time meeting this new mom and dad to the sweetest little boy.. Mr C !! He was such a cooperative little guy during his session and did just about everything I asked of him.. lol ! He wasn't totally thrilled about this basket (doesn't he look like he's saying "seriously, you are plopping me in a basket and taking my picture for your enjoyment?" ).... but I have saved a few cute ones for your gallery!

safe in mama's arms...

kisses from daddy.. awwwww

Little man with his new friend... I suggest to moms that start the baby plan to bring something like a blanket or stuffed animal , that we can use for every session. It will be fun to see how tiny this puppy looks as Mr C grows up !

and one more sweeet picture!

Thanks D, for finding me and asking me to take your baby's pictures! You were a joy to work with and I look forward to seeing you again in 3 months. I love seeing how much the babies have changed each time they come to visit! I'll be sending you a password soon so that you can see all images from your session!

family of four[Lafayette, Indiana family photography, child photography]

2010-09-08T22:44:00.005-04:00

Met up with this family down at the train depot. We actually did not have a blazing hot , full of nasty humidity evening to work with!! The boys were just as boys should be.. just as brothers close in age should be... and I am sure they would have really loved their photographer a tad more, had I had a big dirt pile to climb on or some sort of creepy crawly creature to investigate. Because that is what little boys do right? I know my own boy just this little one's age would have loved it! Seriously, I can just tell by the hour I spent with them, that this family's home is FULL of laughter .. and jokes.. and tons of FUN!! I was still laughing the next day as I thought about some of the crazy antics going on between them!

I always tell my clients, that I like to capture 'moments' .... and that I want to be able to show the essence of people's personalities. I want to be able to freeze time .. so they can look back and remember exactly this time in their lives.

I am thinking that they will look back at these pictures and remember "that silly band craze!"

(and I am right there with you on that one.. lol)
LOVE this face!! I have so many more where he is just cracking up! Love it!!

I had a great time with the C family... as I do with all the families I get to meet , I love witnessing the interaction going on between everyone. It is just so cool. I loved seeing how mom has this special bond with her boys. So in a world full of boys.. I thought it only fitting that we focus on the queen of the house... she is just stunning!!

Thanks, H for asking me to take your family's photos. I have tons of great ones, and I can't wait to show them to you. I'll be sending you the password soon so you can see your gallery! Enjoy your sneak peek!!

two sisters[Lafafayette, Indiana child photography, family photography]

2010-09-05T12:55:00.010-04:00

Met up with these two adorable girls and their mama and had a blast! I just knew when their mom asked me to take their pictures, that they were going to be stylin'. They did not disappoint. I was so excited when they showed up and mom had decked them out

in peasant style gear. I instantly had ideas of what I could do in this park setting. I only wished I had brought along a couple props and that we had a time to hit up another location that would have been perfect for these outfits! Love when I can have my whole vision come together!

Miss K is a sweet brown eyed girl with a whole lot of sassy-ness going on. Love her! Miss J is as sweet as can be and reminds me a lot of my own Tatum-girl.

Mom pulled out the hats and the girls had a great time hammin' it up with boots and such. I love this vintag-y feel.

And then we moved on to the Tattoo shop where the girls did a quick change and came out looking like rock starz! Had a blast creating some really cool grunge looks with these young fashionistas!

Check out those leggings, can I get them in my size?

Modeling contracts will not be hard for these two sisters! They have got it going on!!
I such fun hanging out with you all, and am so honored that you asked me to take your pictures. I think you will really like all that we captured that day.

Check your email for the password to view all of the images from your session!

and baby makes three[Lafayette, Indiana maternity photography, child , family photography]

2010-09-02T23:34:00.006-04:00

While we were taking Miss G's seven year old pictures.. I couldn't resist not focusing on some of my sweet friend and her expanding belly.

Love that baby bump!

I can't wait to meet this little guy in a few weeks! So excited for you all.

There are a bunch more sweet ones. Thanks so much for asking me to capture this special time as you await your new arrival !!

birthday girl [Lafayette, Indiana child photography]

2010-09-02T11:41:00.007-04:00

Met up with this sweet girl and her mama to take some pics for her 7th birthday!! Oh, my gosh.. I can't believe she will be turning SEVEN next week!! I met her mom when she and Brigham were in preschool together! Its so amazing to see how she has turned from a spunky little 4 year old into wise and tender hearted first grader!!

I had no problems getting her to smile.. pose or ham it up for my camera! At some points I thought I was doing a senior session.. Just Kidding mom.. but wait til you see some of the poses she broke out!!

Love it!!!

Thanks for asking me to capture this time in Miss G's life! I had a great time with you all. Watch your email for the password to view the rest of your images.

Holiday Mini Sessions [Lafayette, Indiana family phography]

2010-08-31T21:38:00.003-04:00

Last week's weather has given us a preview of the beautiful fall temperatures to come.. I even saw a few leaves on the ground!! Before you know it, the holiday season will be upon us, and you are going to be thinking about updating those family photos to send out with your cards.. I have made it super easy by offering two days of mini photo sessions, perfect for getting new pics of the kiddos, the family and even the family dog ! These sessions are created with you and your busy fall schedules in mind- they are quick, easy, painless.. and most importantly capture the essence of your family for 2010 !! You pick your day, then pick which package best suits your needs.. then choose the time you want. These mini sessions are super popular and dates and times will fill quickly. Payment in full is due at time of booking to reserve your session time.

Please read below for more information on these specially priced pacakges. Feel free to stop by my website too!

Bright Smiles[Lafayette, Indiana family photography, child photography]

2010-08-29T22:25:00.005-04:00

I had an absolute fabulous evening with this sweet, sweet family... It was once again , a session full of steamy humidity, but that did not bring this family down. at. all. I commented to the mom more than once how impressed I was with all of the kiddos.. (each and every one of them). They listened to me, they smiled, there was no bickering.. no taunting .. there were smiles =) and lots of laughs. I took bunches and bunches of family shots.. I just couldn't resist.. how stinkin' cute are they in all those bright colors ?!! And then would you check out a sampling of the individual shots of the children. SIX.. yes, SIX.. beautifully photogenic and cooperative kiddos.

We also pulled the girls aside and did a 'no boys allowed' mini session.. (and then of course I got some pretty hilarious shots of the 3 boys by themselves. true boys for sure!) Mom , you are gonna love the 'model' shots we did of your darling daughter. I think she had fun too.. (but she may have aged about 4 years in them.. oops. sorry! =(

Couldn't resist doing a feet picture with all their personally unique shade ....

and I'll leave you with one of my favorites from the session.

Thank you so much D family for choosing me to capture your lovely, amazing family. I enjoyed so much spending time with you all. I am emailing you VERY soon with the password to view all the images.. ( so sorry, there lots. and lots.) from your session.

I hope you liked your little sneaky peek!!

a birthday boy [West Lafayette baby photography, Lafayette, child photography]

2010-08-24T15:21:00.014-04:00

My little guy's first birthday to be exact. I have been super busy with sessions for other people.. (THANK YOU, THANK YOU! to all my wonderful clients), but I did manage to do three separate little first bday sessions for Beckham's big milestone. It has just taken me some time to actually edit them. I actually am in the midst of editing 7 more sessions for clients and two other projects and then I am heading into a full fall schedule with family photos and DON't FORGET my MINI sessions in OCTOBER. (if you're on Facebook, you know the details.. if you're not, watch for a post in the next couple days here on the blog) Of course, you can always go to the top of this page, and click on FB, become a FAN (ok or just LIKE me) and then you'll get all the up to date info on specials going on at elle-mi photography. .. soooooo here is the birthday baby....

and since he is a firecracker baby born on the 3rd of July, I went with the red, white and blue theme...

oops.. don't tell him , you can't put the flag on the ground.

and then I wanted some sweet classic ones... he thought he'd have a little snack while we were at it-

showing what a big boy he is.. thank goodness he is not walking yet.. (yayyyy. for mommy)

and those amazing eyes.. that people stop us in the grocery store to comment on them.

and here he looks almost just like his grandpa. awwww.
(maybe its the old fashioned black and white photo.. just kidding!)

Thanks for letting me share my little guy with you. We are so thankful to have him in our lives. He brings so much joy and laughter.. smiles and fun. happy 1st birthday Beckham Augustine!

Three beauties[Lafayette,Indiana child, family photography]

2010-08-23T16:52:00.007-04:00

I had a great time and we endured extreme heat.. (as in I can't remember the last time I had sweat dripping from my eyelids). These girls were so great and didn't complain at all. I think that mama is going to have her hands full when the boys start calling on her girls... starting with the first in the birth order.. Meet Miss M~ loved both the color and black and white, so I am sharing them both.

and next is Miss E... got so many great ones of her, (all of the girls really) it was hard to pick what ones to add on the sneak peek.

and look at sweet baby C !!! thought both of these were super cute..

I have a few more to get through and will be emailing you with the password very soon, so that you can view all the images from your session. It was great meeting you and hanging out with your girls. Thanks for having great attitudes despite that crazy humidity! I hope you enjoy your sneak peek~

Thanks again for choosing me to capture these summer moments with your girls.

two year old fun[Lafayette, Indiana child photography]

2010-08-21T16:39:00.005-04:00

I had a great time meeting adorable Miss R and her parents as we celebrated her 2nd birthday! She was so curious and on the go a lot of the time. I always tell moms when they are concerned about their little ones not staying put.. "that is ok, I know when I schedule my 2 yr olds that I don't need to work out that day!".. they keep me on my toes, and I always have so much fun with this age as well. They are just in to exploring this big , bright world around them, and don't want to take even a minute to rest! LOL

We got some great shots of Miss R checking things out in the alley, and then we found some flowers, that she was very excited about. She did a wardrobe change and grabbed her little friend for some of the last pictures. Her two year old celebration had a Minnie theme, so it was very fitting that her mom brought this custom made adorable dress...

We did get some cute pics of mom and dad too ! Thanks so much W family for asking me to capture your little girl's two year old milestone with photos. I will contact you very soon with the password to view the rest of your session's images.

a 3 month doll baby [Lafayette, Indiana baby , child photography]

2010-08-18T21:51:00.007-04:00

Little Miss S came to visit me for her three month session. She had grown so much since we played together at her newborn session. She was quite awake for this one too. Does she know how to rock the headband or what? ... and this outfit was so adorable.

and another headband and pretty dress... mom was so prepared (as a mom of a baby girl should be! LOL) with lots of cute outfit changes. Did a bit of vintag-y processing on this one, as the polkas and headband screamed for it! haaa.

All of her modeling tuckered her out and she finally fell asleep for some of her last photos. I am waiting to show you them in your gallery.

Thanks so much for coming to see me again.. Looking forward to seeing Miss S at her six month session. I'll be emailing you very soon with the password to view the rest of your images.

a super fun multi-session[Lafayette, Indiana newborn, newborn, child, family, maternity photography]

2010-08-17T18:40:00.012-04:00

This lovely family drove up from Zionsville to see me one morning. The plan was a for a family session, however there were so many causes for celebrations.. I couldn't just stop with a few family pictures.. and so we decided to capture several of this little dude.. Mr. E who had just recently turned two... Most of the time he was on the move and seriously focused on all the sights and sounds that the downtown location provided. There were cars and trucks, and buses... lots of people, and horns and whistles.. and he was just running around soaking it all in. I love that I caught this tender moment with his sweet mama here...

oh, and mama is going to have her hands full in a couple more months as she is expecting baby boy #2. Of course, I convinced her that she needed some maternity pics taken... I got several of her by herself and some sweet ones with her husband. We even recreated one of their engagement pictures.. lol- or had fun trying at least!!

Isn't she just the cutest prego mama ever? She is just glowing... LOVE it !!

This little guy was just a doll.. and so curious about everything around him. You can tell he doesn't want to sit long, as there is just so much to do and see. But, like I tell moms and dads.. I am capturing "who they are" at this moment.... this time in their life.. so if its serious, vs all smiles.. I want you to remember that. In a fleeting moment, he'll be on to a 'new ' phase, so I want to be sure that we 'got' this one!!

And if all the trucks and cars were not enough for this guy, as we were nearing our session.. who would have guessed what would have pulled into the station? This little guy's eyes were glued to this speeding train. His mom said his room is themed in trains... so glad that I got a series of these shots of him watching the train with his family.

and let me tell, you after that.. Mr. E was ALL smiles !!!

Grandma and Grandpa are blessed to get to see this little man all the time, so we made sure to capture the bond that they are creating. I hope you like all that I have of E and his grandparents.. they are really adorable.

Thanks so much S family for asking me to take your photos. It was a great morning and I so enjoyed meeting all of you. I'll be emailing you very soon with the password to view all the images from your session. Take Care, and blessings on your new addition. I hope to get to meet him as well. =)

dodging darkness! [Lafayette, Indiana baby, child, family photography]

2010-08-15T23:53:00.007-04:00

Ok, so summer weather in Indiana is always a bit unpredictable.. like when I showed up at this session and there was sun shining and blue skies... we started out in front of Miss J's house and within minutes the sky started turning shades of gray ... and then black.... You would never know that we were racing around switching outfits and keeping an eye to the sky.. this little gal was just happy to be outside ! She has also gotten used to seeing me as she is one of my baby planners and this was her 9 month session-

I can't believe how blonder her hair is getting! She started out with dark hair when I first met her.. lol-

She was lovin' the grass... and then we brought big sister out to hang with us for awhile. I love this shot, because its just so "sisterly"... ya know?? haaaa.

Miss J's mom wanted some swim suit pictures, and when she pulled this one out I knew I wanted to do kind of a vintage wash to the edit.. something about the style and the design makes me think of a 50's suit..

Isn't she adorable?

Thanks so much for having me come visit you in your home. Thanks for moving quickly with me, as we finished just in time before a crazy, fierce storm dropped down. I actually only was in my car for about ten minutes before it let loose. Luckily, we managed to get all the pics we needed.

Looking forward to seeing you again for her big One year old session!! I'll be in touch very soon with the password to view the rest of your images. =)

precious newborn[Lafayette, Indiana newborn, baby, child, family, photography]

2010-08-11T12:46:00.007-04:00

Meet little Miss A.. she was barely 14 days when she came to visit... she was wide eyed for most of the session, but I think we finally tired her out towards the end. Awwww. isn't she sweet? Mom, Dad, and big brother D, came along too.. I love the tenderness captured in this image. I can tell how protective D is of his little sis already... except when the trains came out, and then he could have cared less what was going on in the other room! A boy has his priorities =)

I just love the twinkle in his eyes... one of my favorite scenes is to witness the older sibling (with a new baby)they are so proud, and in love esp when they don't know yet that baby will one day grow older and want to mess up their stuff =).. LOL

Again, another family image that I think is so cute. Big Brother has got a hold on her, just to make sure she's doing ok.

This shot is pretty close to ones that I do with Daddy and baby, but they requested this to have a matching one to the one they had when their son was born. I think its super adorable.

I am busy finishing up the rest of your images. I know it is hard to wait.. thanks for your patience. =) I will send a password on to you very soon, so that you can view your private gallery.

It was so fun to meet your family. Thanks for having me capture this special time in your growing family's lives. Congratulations on your beautiful little girl! What a blessing !

Pretty in Pink [Lafayette, Indiana, family, child photograph]

2010-08-09T09:41:00.006-04:00

Meet the V family , who traveled all the way from Pennsylvania to see me!!.. Ok, so this is a gal who was my little sis waaaaay back in high school!! I haven't seen her in about 17 years(really. that long? wow!) She was making a rare trip back home and contacted me to see if I would take some family pics for her! I was thrilled to see her as a mama and to meet her littles! We got some great shots of her family and then mixed in her dad and his wife. She had warned me that her son , all of 3 was going to give me a run for my money!! I think his spunky personality played a great role in giving these images a lot of emotion- he is just as cute as he can be.

Her grandparents came to visit from MO, so we added them in the mix for a few "all in the family" pics and then even did a few of the 4 generations. I hope you like them as I think they turned out really great!

It was hard to keep Mr. S still for long. He has quite the imagination and was busy acting out quite the scene with Mr. Dinosaur. Glad I snapped this one-

and then towards the end he wanted to hang with his sister and got several of them simply 'being' the sweetest of siblings!

Thanks so much T for asking me to take your family's pictures. I had a great time seeing you and meeting your family =) I'll have your password to you very soon so that you can view all the images from your session. Here is one of my favorites of Miss RG . What an angelic little face!

All in the family[Lafayette, Indiana child, baby, family photography]

2010-08-06T14:58:00.009-04:00

Just look at this cutie head that came all the way from South Carolina to see me for his one year session!! The last time I saw his mama I was helping to plan her wedding at the hotel I used to work for. She contacted me early this summer to inquire about his session and then our mini 1st bday session turned into a family session- We got lots of good extended family shots....

and then mom and her family....

and the proud grandparents with little Mr. G...... he was pretty serious during the entire session, but you can tell gma and gpa are about to crack him !!

some walking with daddy....

and I just love this one I caught of little G and his mama.... its just so sweet!

and once again the birthday boy looking so handsome. I hope you enjoyed your 'sneak peek'. I have so many great images to finish editing and they will be up in your private gallery very soon. Watch your email for the password so that you can see them all !

Thanks again, for contacting me to book your session. I hope you enjoyed your time home and that it truly was a vacation!!

Fun Stuff around Town! [Lafayette, Indiana baby, family, child photography]

2010-08-05T15:33:00.003-04:00

I am excited to announce that I am teaming up with a local downtown business(one of my favorites) to showcase some of my work. It is the perfect place, because TWO TULIPS is an amazing little spot on Main Street that features beautiful boutique baby things. Whether you need that perfect new-mom-to-be gift, or an adorable baby gift, TWO TULIPS has just what you're looking for that is special and unique.

Cheryl is wonderful to work with and has been helping me bless my friends (and my own children) with her beautiful smocked outfits, glitzy and trendy baby-gear, bibs/burpcloths, shoes/socks/blankets, toys and much, much more. Not only baby items, but there is a fabulous collection of unique gifts for the engaged couple, sorority gals, and don't forget TWO TULIPS offers stationary and cards to create your special wedding or party invitations as well as birth and other announcements.

Right now, Cheryl is running a baby photo contest , where you can submit pics of your cuties sporting something sweet from her shop. All entries will go into a drawing for (2) 8x10 prints and the winning entry will win a $40 gift certificate to use at TWO TULIPS and also receive 50% off session fee and a free 8x10 print from elle-mi photography!!

So head on down and see what all is new in the shop and pick out something super cute for your little ones.. then contact me for your super duper cute photo session!! Fall session dates are filling quickly~

Oh, yeah.. and I'll be a featured artist in her shop on September 17th during the Gallery Walk(more on that later)

ALSO.... .. I have been donating here and there to various groups all year long but am thrilled to have a display on the silent auction table for tonight's big BINGO game.
I am a huge supporter of Lafayette Transitional Housing (some of you may know that I head up my church's big outreach Christmas party for LTH familes)and LOVE what they are doing for our community.
Tonight is their HUGE, HUGE fundraiser, and I was thrilled when they asked if I could donate something. I hope that my offer goes for big money towards this fabulous organization and their great mission. This is such a fabulous evening , full of fun (open bar), food, and prizes!!

A big Shout out to Jen and her crew for all they do!!

Beachy Family Fun [Lafayette, Indiana family, child photography]

2010-08-02T22:28:00.007-04:00

or should I say "mock-beach" family fun? I loved the challenge, when this mom contacted me about doing their family pictures- she said she wanted a beach theme.. "hmmmm ", I thought, "we're in the middle of Indiana. cornfields of course, but a beach?" They were already driving an hour up to see me, so I didn't want to trek on up another hour to one of our man-made lakes, plus I had no idea of the locations up there.. so I started scouting places around here.

I Love the end results.. despite the seagulls and the cabana boys, you would never know we're not hanging out on the white sands of Florida! haaa. Anyway, here are a few pics from their session- we also visited another spot and got some more 'shabby chic' pictures -

Look at these beautiful children... Miss A and Mr Z were such a joy to work with. You are certainly blessed with an adorable family. I am thrilled you asked me to capture this time for you.

AWWWWW. they are such a sweet brother and sister... I don't think I heard one 'bicker' the whole session.. hopefully they'll always remain great friends, and I hope you will cherish these beautiful images capturing their wonderful relationship =)

I'll send you the password very,very soon so that you can view the rest of the images from your session. Thanks again for giving me the opportunity to create great memories for you with my camera.

DON'T FORGET!!! [Lafayette, Indiana baby, newborn, family senior, child photography]

2010-07-31T15:27:00.003-04:00

THERE IS ONLY ONE MORE DAY TO BOOK YOUR FALL SESSION AT CURRENT PRICES!!!!

On August 1st, I will be raising my session fees as well as print prices and offering some new products just in time for the holiday season. My attention to detail has not changed and I have incorporated some new presentation aspects to my photos, allowing for my increased prices to still be affordable while guaranteeing you have an amazing finished product that you can cherish for years to come.

Still working out all the details on a few fun things going on at elle-mi photography ( I can't wait to share them with you!) and I am excitedly finishing up the details for my Fall Mini Sessions.

I have booked 8 sessions in the last week, and had two more inquires today.. don't wait TO GET YOUR CHOICE OF DATE!

CONTACT ME TODAY!! Thanks =)

sneak peek for the L family(Lafayette, IN family photography

2010-07-28T14:51:00.008-04:00

Had a great time meeting up with this family and taking their fall pictures.. (well , almost.. right?) We started out getting some pics of each of the three kids! The boys were so cooperative and realized quickly how painless having their pictures taken actually was. I am good like that.. LOL !!

Little Missy was quite a hoot.. she was cracking me up with her crazy antics and expressions- that is what little sisters are all about-

Got a bunch more of the kids by themselves and also together.. this is one of my favorites of all three kiddos-

This family is so much fun so I knew they would be up for playing in the water. It was so hot, that I am sure it felt good to cool off at the same time. There are a few more great ones from this set, that I am sure you'll love.

We finished the night off with a few of princess E all dudded out in pinks and sass. She was all about a one - girl show.. LOVEd it !! (and then she was done.. lol)

Thanks so much for asking me to take your family's photos.. I will be sending your password very soon so that you can see all of the images from your session. Talk to you soon !

Senior session! [Lafayette, Indiana high school senior, Harrison High School photography]

2010-07-26T11:59:00.006-04:00

Had SO much fun with this senior session! It was a bit hot out and we just missed some rain.. but it led to a beautiful evening of picture taking downtown! Miss T is going to be a Senior at Harrison High School and wanted to do this 'special dual' session with her boyfriend.

They were a bit nervous ( as most seniors are) for their session, but after about 10 mintues , completely loosened up and I could tell they were having fun.

I had a great confirmation when T sent me an email saying that she and W had such a great time and that it was much more 'fun' than she thought it would be! YAAAAY. I always promise super fun sessions. for seniors or anyone else for that matter. Getting your photos taken should.not. be painful. LOL--

Thanks for asking me to take you pictures and I am so thrilled for you two.. enjoy the rest of your summer together. I look forward to spending more time with you at your solo session this fall!!

snips and snails [Lafayette, Indiana child, family photography]

2010-07-22T14:56:00.011-04:00

and puppy dog tails. That is indeed what this brand new THREE year old is made of!

haaa.

Met up with his mom to take his 3 year old pictures.. He was such a ham. We conquered the mosquitos and got some great shots to document his birthday!

These are just a few of my favorites.. he had such a spark in his eye the whole time !

Caught some of big brother too since he was hanging around...

and a few of them together too. Pretty darn cute, and pretty hard to keep the sticks out of the hands of a certain little 3 year old! lol

I had a great time with you all- Thanks for asking me to take Mr. H's handsome pictures! I'll email you with the password to view the rest of the pics from your session. Hope you like your sneak peek!!

new from Chick Pea![Lafayette, Indiana child, family, baby photography]

2010-07-20T15:13:00.004-04:00

Check out this lovely little "hair band" as my sweet daughter calls it!! Isn't it gorgeous! She is quite the model.. and if you can't tell, she doesn't leave the house with grabbing "something" for her hair!

This is one of my faves for my little girl.. and yep.. I have been known to borrow it from her a time or two as well -- chick pea hair stuff is super cute and not just for your little girls. I have some sweet flowers that I wear on my pony tails as well.

Go check out what new things Kelly has in her shop at CHICK PEA HAIR BOWS

*** and just to let my clients -in-waiting.. I am working as hard as I can... If you haven't seen your sneak peek up yet, please be patient with me. I have three more sessions to finish edit as well as some other fun projects I am in the midst of.

(will share soon =)...

***and.... just to let you know that I am now booking sessions into September and beyond, so if you are interested in a family session or new pics of your kiddos to include with Christmas cards( I know, it is only July right?) now is the time to get your choice on dates!!

stay tuned for more coming..... thanks for stopping by!!

sneak peek for the T family[Lafayette, Indiana family, child photography]

2010-07-14T10:14:00.007-04:00

Look at how cute this family is!! I love their red , white and blue theme! I apologize to you (and to future or past clients) about the logo watermark across the image. Unfortunately, there are some people out there who were taking it upon themselves to "take my photos" without placing orders.. =(
therefore, I had to start making my water mark a little bigger and a little less appealing to have on a framed picture displayed in ones' home.
I assure, you that the images are beautiful and though you may not be able to see all the detail on the sneak peek , you will see fully edited, and un-watermarked images in your private gallery.
Ok. done with that side note!!
We were able to get so many great family poses and a few individual shots of big sister , which I just love.

One of my faves... daddy daughter kisses... Miss R is coming back to see me in a couple months for her one year session and so she'll get to steal the show!

Look at Miss Q .. so pretty! She certainly enjoyed the camera and was a joy to work with.

The whole family was a blast to hang out with on a Saturday morning. Thanks so much for asking me to take your family pictures. I'll send the password your way so that you can view the rest of the images from your session.

Enjoy!!!

pretty as a princess[Lafayette, Indiana child photography]

2010-07-11T13:04:00.008-04:00

Miss B turns three!!! We met at the park for some fun pictures and (of course the reward of playtime on the playground)! She was all decked out in her birthday gear and was even wearing her beautiful charm necklace from Disney World ! Mirror, Mirror on the wall... who is the prettiest princess of all????

We had great fun trying to get this idea to come thru to reality...its hard to keep a 3 yr old focused in the right spot! LOL.. I think this one is so cute.. and there are a couple others too mom.

Ahhhh. would you look at those eyes?? I am sure they melt mama's heart.. and some lucky boy down the road in say.. twenty years!!

Miss B was showing off her pretty new bracelet and for some reason this rock setting, made me think "beachy.." so I did a little vintage processing to it.

... and here she is bursting with color!! What a sweet, little girl she was with such a spunky spirit!

I hope that you have enjoyed your sneak peek and that you will see the essence of your little girl captured in these images. Thank you so much for asking me to take her birthday photos. It was fun to be a part of documenting this milestone in her life.

Watch your email, for the password to view the rest of the images from your session. Again, thanks and best wishes to you all !

Miss M turns ONE!![Lafayette, child, baby,family photography]

2010-07-07T10:18:00.007-04:00

I had great time meeting little Miss M who had just turned one and her sweet parents for a morning photo session. As you can see, this little cutie had no problem smiling for my camera ! I usually save my "props" for last... and sometimes a last resort to get kiddos to realize that picture taking is indeed fun....

Miss M had recently begun walking.. and if you know anything about a child finding their new found mobile independence... well... I got my exercise for the morning following her around. It was great fun! She noticed my flower prop and quickly went over and snatched it up... she absolutely loved it! Hey, Mom, perhaps this could be a simple and inexpensive toy for her one day .. lol - there are many , many more.. in fact I am working up a sweet collage w/ Miss M and her flower. It is just adorable.

And what fun did we have in the ol' bucket. She loved it too!! Got some great expressions as she chilled for awhile.. (as you can see here, she was trying to escape! LOL)

We got some great family shots as well.. the above one is a favorite from the session.. as is the daddy /daughter one seen below...

I love, love, love this last one. It seems that in every 1-2 year old session, I get a few moments like this. While most people may not like a sad baby.. as a photographer, I love to see the tears, and the instant consoling hugs that a mama gives her child. I think its important to capture these precious moments as well. So much raw emotion is caught and a great reminder that mom will always be there for comfort and to wipe away the tears.

Thanks so much for asking me to take Miss M's one year milestone pictures! I hope that they are exactly what you were hoping for. I enjoyed our time together and look forward to seeing you again. Thank you for your patience, and I will be emailing your password very soon.

Enjoy your sneak!

two brothers (and the rest of the family) [Lafayette, Indiana, child , family photography]

2010-07-05T11:42:00.009-04:00

I was super thrilled when a friend from back in college called me to ask if I would take pictures of her boys! It was such a fun little reunion and to see her as a mom to these big boys was so very cool ! Our session started out as just capturing the boys Mr. R and Mr. C at this stage in their lives... I learned all about silly bands during our session.. lol

and caught some pretty good grins out of the two of them !

and grandma and grandpa came along too, so we got some good family shots in. I also got some great shots of grandpa with his grandsons, mom and dad w/ their daughter and grandma and grandpa together. They said it had been years since they had a picture of the two of them. I am so glad that I could snap a few of them.

I have a feeling you will be pleased with the variety we were able to get from your session. Thanks for all of you for being so flexible and as an added bonus we got to listen to a little concert in the park during our session. Fun wasn't it?

Here is mom with her boys.....almost as big as she is!! R, you're going to have to put a book on his head for sure!!

and I always sneak a snap or too of mama by herself.... isn't she gorgeous??? Such a princess in a house full of boys =) !

and I'll leave you with this fun one, just because I love shoes .. and thought these ol' cons the kids had on were super cool.

So thanks again for having me take your family pics. I'll send you the password to view the rest of your session images. I look forward to seeing you next time for the Mr R solo session.. that will be so fun !

It was great to see you .. I'll be in touch soon !!

little guy[Lafayette, Indiana baby, child photography]

2010-06-29T11:31:00.007-04:00

Little J is one of my baby planners and he came to visit me for his 6 month session- I can hardly believe how big and super adorable he has gotten since his last visit. He showed me all kinds of new tricks.. like sitting up like a champ.. finding his feet.. and really engrossed with his hands . I just love to watch these little ones as they take in their surroundings.

For those of you how haven't been to my home studio... you don't know that I have two friendly four legged "assistants" on the other side of the glass that entice and mezmorize my little clients. Sometimes I even get BIG smiles out of them as they watch the crazy antics that go on outside the window.

I just love baby chubb.. and so we let Mr. J play with just a diaper on for a bit and got a lot of cute shots that I hope mom and dad will love-

We also let him model some sweet outfits courtesy of grandma... love this hat.. and he kept it on for a good long while for me to snap some cute head shots too.

Look at that grin.... He was full of smiles for me during this session.. and if not with his little mouth.. his eyes were sure twinkling!!

I'll leave you with one that I think is super cute of him hanging out in the 'jungle'. Mom and Dad brought this adorable quilt that was made as a baby gift. I always love it when clients bring in personal items that will make their sessions unique.

Thanks again for using me to capture this time in your little guy's life. He is growing up quickly, and I am glad to have had the opportunity to 'freeze' these moments for you. I will be in touch soon with the password to view all the rest of the images from your session. Looking forward to seeing you in another three months!

more from Heartsmiles [Lafayette, Indiana child photography]

2010-06-28T14:46:00.004-04:00

Does your little girl need some new hair accessories?

Check out some cute unique styles for your little one.. knit hats and headbands, for boys(ok , the headbands are for the girls.. ) and girls ! Abbie is always creating something new at HEARTSMILES

sneak peek for the S family ![Lafayette, Indiana, child, family photography]

2010-06-27T17:05:00.011-04:00

So thrilled when this mama contacted me to take pictures of her cutie head kiddos ! We got a bunch of Miss J looking super adorable.. just in time for her 3rd birthday!

I know I have to apologize over and over again to my clients... because often times when they say they want pics of their children, I always *convince* them that THEY need to be in at least a couple pics!! I love to catch these sweet moments with mom and dad with their little ones.

Would you look at this handsome dude? Seriously.. what a ham he was and such a good young man, so willing to endure picture instead of play time!

We got a few good family pics... ( I love the sign one.. but you'll get to see that in your gallery =)

(I know.. I am mean like that and make you suffer with more anticipation.. lol )

And some more of J and J.. I sure had a great time hanging out with them at their home. They have the best play set/jungle gym/clubhouse ever !

and so if you're looking at these amazing eyes and wonder just where they came from.....

ummm. can you say beautiful couple? Thanks for letting me snag a few pics of the two of you too.

I will be emailing you with a password to view the rest of the images from your session. I hope

you enjoy your sneak peek!

leaving with you with another one that screams summer to me... love this shabby chic look.. so I had to play with a vintage edit ~ kinda makes me wanna be at the beach right now..

cutie pie at two![Lafayette, Indiana child photography]

2010-06-24T15:45:00.006-04:00

I had a blast with this "newly turned two" little Miss K and her mama! We met early on a rather rainy , cool day but I don't think Miss K cared a bit! She ran and ran and smiled and was a ball of energy the whole time! I did manage to get her to sit down for a time or two! But she was so inquisitive to what was going on around her. I love this age so much! I just love to watch their little minds at work!

We started a game which could have gone on forever.. she would run and touch my camera and then race back to give her mama a big ol' hug. It was so fun to watch her squeal with laughter!

Thanks so much for contacting me to take Miss K's two year old pictures. I am so glad that you are thrilled with them! Enjoy this amazing time with her this summer!!

Summer Beauties[Lafayette, Indiana child, family photography]

2010-06-22T14:55:00.009-04:00

I was SUPER excited when these two girls popped out of their car for our session at the park. Not only were their outfits completely adorable and just perfect for a park setting, but they were so stinking cute!! Their mama brought them up from Indianapolis to get pictures and despite the drive, hot weather and those stinkin' skeeters (I am sooooo sorry, had no idea we would be invading an infestation), these sisters rocked their session !

I could tell how well they get along with each other, it was just so sweet. They laughed and played and (of course a few little taunts here and there).. but they were all smiles for my camera ,which made my job so easy.

However, it will probably make the decision making process a bit harder for mom to choose the photos. just get them all.. lol

We got several amazing family shots.. including Miss Miley. She even gave me her best smile =)

Got some amazing shots of the girls and also some great ones of their mama-- but you'll have to wait to see you those!! =)

I think you'll have a hard time once these girls reach about 16 or so...you'll be fighting off the boys !!

Wait til you see the sassy shots I got!! - lol

Thanks so much for asking me to capture this time in your family's life. I am so happy that I was a part of documenting it for you. I had a blast hanging out with you all.

I will have the rest of your images up in your gallery VERY soon.. will be in touch with a password.

I hope you have enjoyed your sneak peek!!

a perfect night for photos[Lafayette, Indiana child, family photography]

2010-06-15T15:32:00.010-04:00

I met this family downtown on the first Friday evening in June. And in June in Indiana.. that means the possibility of rain, or tornados.. is an every other day occurrence. The weather was calling for storms , and just started praying that we'd be able to get this session in. This mama had scheduled it so far in advance ,, and they were driving 45 min to get here. And the rain gods(or lack there of) heard my prayer! lol We met downtown for a very enjoyable session with perfect weather the entire time!
(ok.. 5 minutes after I was in my car to drive home, it started raining.) So in the meantime , we played in alleys and sat on walls, and ate suckers and got some great shots too!!

This brother and sister are such good friends. Can you just feel the love? This a great one, mom! =)

and then they were being a bit silly.. there are a bunch of cute ones from this set on the wall. I thought it was fun to add a little vintage look to them.

As soon as I saw their outfits, I just knew this wall would look perfect. And red and white striped lolli pops would be super fun as well. (but you'll have to check your gallery for those shots)...

This is just a tease as to what your session images will be. I can say that I had to keep going back and re counting, b/c seriously, you were going to have like 15o EXCELLENT photos to choose from. I decided to be nice and tame that number down a bit. Plus, after editing that much I start to go a bit loony!! lol
I got so many great shots of the kids individually---- and a bunch together.

This is one of my top 2 faves. LOVE it!! needs to be really BIG some place on your wall !!

... and I even made mom get in some of the pictures.

These are a couple of my favorites. I hope you like them too =)

I am nearly finished editing the mounds and mounds of files from your session.. hee..hee. I'll be sending you a pw so that you can view them all very soon. For now, I hope you enjoy your little sneak peek. It was so great to meet your family! Thank you so much for trusting me with photos of your kiddos!!

super cute[Lafayette,Indiana child photography]

2010-06-10T17:32:00.006-04:00

Would you look at this ADORABLE hat??? seriously it is so unique and so stinkin cute. I was thrilled when Abbie at Heartsmiles contacted me and asked if I would take pictures for her etsy site. This is just one of the many, many types of has that she creates. Starting at newborn sizes and going up from there, I am sure that you could find one just perfect for your little girl. (or boy)

YES, super excited to see what she sends my way in the boy variety.. I have a little model ready and waiting. =)... Abbie is super sweet and amazingly talented. Head on over to her etsy shop and look around. She loves to do custom orders as well.. go ahead.. tell her I sent ya!!

It's all about the details that give your heartsmiles.

happy 2 yr old [Lafayette, Indiana child, family photogrpahy]

2010-06-09T14:45:00.009-04:00

So we had a wonderful morning during this fun session for Miss L's 2 yr old session. As you can see she is full of spunky personality and definitely knew how to work the camera! =) These are a few of my favorites.. love the bare feet in the park.. well, the fountain... I think she was contemplating a little closer look, but then a few drops hit her and she decided against it!!

This was towards the end of our session, when she got her "prized lollipop" for being such a sweet model. Really.. I know it was for this little ones milestone, but I just can't help rope mom and dad into the mix as well.

Families are too special not to document them all. the. time. (sure, I am a photographer , I have to say that..no really.. if you know my mamarazzi tendencies with my own kiddos.. I am totally not kidding) !-

Kids grow up so fast.. and while we are capturing all of their little growth spurts, I think it is just as important to capture "who" the family is during that time too. Love it!!

These two are some of my favorite family shots. I would blow this up HUGE and put it up over the mantel. or the bed. or the dining room table. SOMEwhere, this needs to be framed and displayed!. ok.. done with suggestive selling. =)

To be honest I have been getting a little behind on my sneak peeks. I am so thankful for all the business that has been coming in the last 2 1/2 months that I have been editing like a crazy person and just sending off the proofs w/o giving a little sneaky peek. So the C family has already seen all of the images from their session, but wanted to add them here so they can pass on the link to friends and family.

and the whole reason we had our little session was because of this beautiful girl.. love her smile!

Thanks so much for asking me to take her 2 yr old pictures! I had a blast with you all. Talk with you soon!!

wildflowers at sunset[Lafayette, Indiana child photography]

2010-06-06T21:15:00.003-04:00

Got honked and whistled at during this impromptu session with Tatum.. I had been driving in and out of our subdivision for too many days, with this 'vision' in my head.

So happy that I got to catch these.. b/c just a few days after a major heat wave, all these "flower-weeds" were shriveled to the ground!

I think I am going to blow these up on canvas to go with her shabby chic room decor!

an itty bitty [Lafayette, Indiana newborn photography]

2010-06-02T23:50:00.013-04:00

super tiny and fresh.. and what a blessing to these first time parents... meet Miss S... she is all of TWO days old !! yep, that is right.. I had taken mom's maternity pics and we had scheduled for baby's first session, but Miss S wanted to stay snug and warm for a little bit longer.. so when I got the news that she had made her entrance to the world, I asked if they still wanted to keep their session date, or reschedule.
This FIRST time mom sent me an email from the hospital saying "we're coming home tonight, so we should be fine with coming in the morning!"...

I have to say , I was super impressed with how laid back these parents were.. and how they just "handed" over their precious one to me and let me play.. oh, my was/is she the sweetest. I totally forgot how "new" these babes are. Mom was a trooper getting up and down and dad was cracking jokes.. they were already planning two outings for their new family member for later that day too. I was impressed with them, but could totally relate as well.. people were shocked when I had a baby on Wed and was in my garden on Sat and in church on Sun. Life didn't slow down for us, just because we had a a baby. In fact I remember after child number 3 arrived for us, we loaded him up at 3 days old and took him to the zoo. He also had his first water park experience at 10 days old!... (sorry, I digress..)

I love, love, love this shot of daddy holding his baby girl in his hands... Love me some b/w images. esp.. baby ones. I think they evoke so much emotion. Love the "new" family shots.. and there are So many more that I just wish I had time to share them all. =)

And because Miss S was such a good little model.. this is just part one of her sneak peek. I will post a few more, so any of you readers can get your baby fix. =)

Thanks so much for trusting me with these special FIRST moments in your baby girls' life. I can't wait to see her again in a few months. I have sent your pw so that you can view the rest of the images from your session in your private gallery.
Congratulations on your little miracle =)
talk with you soon!

I love LOVE[Lafayette, Indiana engagement photography]

2010-05-29T16:19:00.014-04:00

I had my first engagement session a couple weeks ago, and I think I am in LOVE with them. I had a blast with this couple! Although I have to admit there was a moment when I thought "I shouldn't be watching, hovering, etc, etc. over them.. " .lol..

and then I remembered "I am a photographer. Its my job to hover.. to capture ... It was such an honor for me to get to capture these AMAZING moments in their life!"

And it was totally easy.. I just walked around and really just after a few pointers , I let them "BE" them. Totally smitten with one another. This is a time in their lives that is unique.

(ok, and now I just realized that the last two sentences may have sounded a bit odd.lol) Its not going to be unique that they are smitten with one another, duh..!!!.. however this fresh, youthful, and carefree LOVE that is between a couple will change as life goes on. (speaking from almost 6 yrs of marriage, I know.. lol)~
I have to say that it was so much fun and left me with such a happy feeling to witness two people SO much in love.

I mean they were just "ga-ga" over each other. And really they could have been the only two people downtown. They were so "in" to each other.. (which made my job totally easy)

They were super easy going and even went with my idea here, EVEN though there was a (slight) chance we could have gotten arrested for degrading public property. ha!

I just love this top one. It makes me think of them just sitting and growing old together.. maybe someone will take this same pic, say.. 50 yrs from now!!!

Thank you so much!!

I am so thrilled that I was able to help you document this incredible time in your lives. Best wishes as you take the next step into a lifetime of happiness.

new Chick Pea arrivals![Lafayette, West Laffayette, Indiana newborn, child photography]

2010-05-27T10:58:00.007-04:00

For those of you who don't know , I take photos of the adorable hair accessories for Chick Pea Hair Bows. I have shared some of these gorgeous pieces before here. Little Miss S is modeling a couple of the sweet flower baby bands here. The pink one is actually detatchable and can be worn a variety of ways.

And Miss Tatum always willing to model her favorite accesseries here. The large purple flower attached to a thick ribboned head band.

The yellow and very, very light green center is adorned by a sparkle. Go check out more of what Kelly has in her shop at Chick Pea Hair Bows.

She has a wide variety of bows, flowers, headbands, clips.. tiny and big.. like the one seen here on the beautiful Miss J. That big honkin flower is a clip and can be worn attached to the netted band here, or my daughter likes to adorn it to her pony tail and it looks SUPER cute!

Stay tuned for more sample pieces.. any questions please let me know or contact Kelly via her website. Thanks! ~

sweet , sweet baby[Lafayette, Indiana baby photography]

2010-05-26T14:29:00.009-04:00

Meet Mr. T.. he was visiting me for his 6 month session. I love to see the kiddos on my baby plans, over and over again. Its so much fun to watch them grow up and see how much they have changed between sessions. This little guy had tons of dark hair at his 3 month session and now it is light and fuzzy and there is less of it! He has the same sweet personality as he did when we first met.

What a cutie he is with those BIG brown eyes!!

Look at his muscles... this little guy is growing up so big and strong for sure !!

thanks for sharing your sweet boy with me ! I love to "watch them grow" and see their new tricks.. (like sitting up) at this milestone session !

I have sent you a password via email to view the rest of the images from your session. I look forward to seeing you again in a few months!

sweet lil miss j [Lafayette,Indiana child photography]

2010-05-21T12:05:00.011-04:00

You've seen Miss J before, as she is on my baby plan. This was her 6 month session and we had so much fun. She loved to move around and was really liking standing.. and using those leg muscles! watch out mama!!

Look at those baby blues! I think she looks like a baby doll. I porcelian baby doll.

And when her mom pulled out this sweet old fashion dress, I knew I had the perfect prop! This doll bed was made for me by my grandpa and now resides in my daughter's room with multiple sleeping babies in it. I have used it on newborns before, but just thought it would look adorable with Miss J !

what do you think? precious right?

and she was pretty happy on her tummy too.. although, she wanted to roll and scoot away . So much to see and do for this little girl !

oh.. SO cute!! this reminds me of an olden time photo...

Thank you so much for coming back to see me and letting me play with Miss J. I can't wait until our next session. See in you 3 months!

I LOVE IT! [Lafayette, Indiana, family,child,newborn photography]

2010-05-19T16:55:00.003-04:00

I absolutely LOVE what I do.. I mean really.. I get to get (out of the house) and play with other people's cutie head children, or capture two people all lovey dovey (ew) but SO happy that I can witness it.. (and document it for them)... I feel totally blessed and am just thanking God every day for the plans He has for me and my family..

A few years ago, I was trying to figure out a way that I could help out financially to our family but wouldn't take me away from the kiddos for too long.. well, I tried a direct home sale business.. but it just didn't feel right and it wasn't a good fit. I had hoped that my obsession in scrap booking could bring in some extra cash as I submitted for publications and tried out for design teams. Again.. there wasn't a constant flow of $$ from that either. Who knew.. (ok, I do actually know who) that my long time love for photography and the art and my love for being around people and "helping" others would be the thing that blossomed. I can't thank my clients(and future) clients enough for their support in my business. My schedule is full, and I am getting calls daily. I have some really fun things in the works to announce soon and I just feel so blessed and am having a blast too.

and even though the thanks from the "these brought tears to my eyes" comments from clients when they see their prints means a whole lot.

I was super excited when a client brought me this yummy thank you gift of perfume and lotion in a fabulous summery scent! oooo.. laaaa.. laaa.
thanks so much k, I LOVE it ! =) !!

Happy Birthday L ![Lafayette, Indiana, child, family photography]

2010-05-17T23:13:00.014-04:00

Look at this cutie!! Miss L turned the big ONE just days before our session.

She is my 4th first birthday session this year .. and I am just loving these little people (and their parents)

Gotta love IN weather... it stormed all night long right before our session.. in fact they were calling for rain the morning of, but thankfully GOD knew that capturing her milestone was more important than fueling the growth of plants and crops!! (lol)

Everything was so vivid and SO perfect with her little birthday outfit. LOVE her tutu!

I have a bunch in this little outfit, but these were a couple of my favorites.. would you check out her eyes!
AMAZING!!
um, dad, you're gonna have to watch out in say... 15 years when that first boy comes knockin' at your door!!

OH. my.. I think these two are my favorites also.. I think that they need to be on a canvas (or at least REALLY big) They are such timeless photos.. and would you just check out her 'diva' shoes?

Had to get some of mom and dad too... I love this sweet family picture! Love all the colors..

great coordinating mom! =)

and then here is one of mama and her baby girl....

and daughter and daddy.... LOVE this one!

always love the candids I get.. and I have so many from our cute session. I had a great time meeting this adorable family and documenting little L's big milestone!!

Thanks so much for finding me and trusting me with your little girl (and family) photos!

I'll be contacting you soon with your password to view the rest of your session images! Enjoy!!

C turns ONE ! [Zionsville, Indiana child, family photography]

2010-05-15T17:06:00.008-04:00

The good weather gods were watching over us on this one for sure... as we pulled into town nearing the decided location, there was standing water in the streets. phew... we had just missed a major downpour !

Which I was thrilled about, b/c it made everything lush and smelling wonderful !

Little C was as cute as she could be.. but didn't stay put for long! She recently turned one, and so this was her BIG milestone session. I think we were really able to capture all kinds of bits and pieces to her personality. =)

We started out in this amazing little spot that her mama picked out. I was incredibly giddy as I left, as my head was spinning with ideas for this hidden gem.as well as the nearby streets filled with vibrant color and so many amazing backdrops!!

Lover her "serious" look. Something about babies and toddlers with this stare... its like there is SO much going on upstairs as they take in what is going on around them.

This one is one of my favorites... I think I would blow it up big.. wouldn't it look great on a canvas? (heck all of them would.. lol)

Ok.. so I know you said you didn't want in any pictures.. but geeesh.. this is GORGEOUS! .. YOU are gorgeous.. and I love, love to capture the bonds going on with mom/child/ siblings/ dad/child, mom/dad.. in all my sessions. Sorry.. that is just the way I roll.. and how many times are moms NOT in the pictures.

I couldn't decide which way I liked this one better.. b/w

or in color. the colors just POP! love it

ok.. J-girl.. pleeeze , humor, me and tell me that you love it to.. =)

Thank you so much for asking me to take Miss C's pictures. I had a great time with you all and am just thrilled with the results. I have a feeling you will have a hard time choosing =)

I'll send you the pw soon, so that you can view all the images from your session.

sneak peek of Mr M[West Lafayette,Indiana baby photography]

2010-05-14T08:12:00.009-04:00

This little guy is on the baby plan.. so I have watched him grow up.. this was his 9 mos session!

What a cutie he is, with such a great smile!

He has the most laid back temperament, and really just at there quite content all serious-like for a while...

then he would just get that twinkle in his eyes, and a big ol' grin would pop out on his face!
I enjoyed the morning with Mr. M and his mama. We worked this little guy so hard, that he took an early nap due to his tough modeling job!

Thanks for coming back to me for your photo needs in capturing this little guy's milestones!

I can't wait to see him at the big ONE year!

I'll contact you soon with the pw to view the rest of your session images.

This little giraffe is our staple in each session... his birth mama sent it to him when he was born.. and I love that HIS MAMA wants to incorporate it.. I remember when the little giraffe was as big as M was... now the giraffe has certainly become a cuddly toy!

Miss M sneak peek[Lafayette, Indiana Senior photography]

2010-05-12T23:40:00.013-04:00

Meet Meghan! She is one of my seniors for 2011.. she is representing Harrison High School, in West Lafayette, Indiana.

I had so much fun with Miss M and her mom..

It was a pretty brisk day, but Miss M was up for anything...
lucky for her during this outfit change.. the sun was right there to warm her up!!

Meghan told me at the end.. "well, that wasn't so bad".. lol

then her mom chimed in , that she was a bit nervous about this photo session.

In fact.. when we were finished.. Meghan said " that was tons of fun !"

yep.. we do have fun.. I love to hold sessions that are very relaxed , that capture WHO you are (no matter what age) and most importantly , that we have FUN!!

the serious side of M... haaa.

she really didn't have a serious side..

she was pretty spunky the whole time!

and when she put her dress on, I knew I had to pull out the parasol, for some "girly girl" shots..

mom, I hope you like them.. =)

check out those shoes... she is a shoe girl.. and a funky shoe girl at that!

M plays in the band, so I wanted to make sure we got some of her with the clarinet. When having senior portraits done with elle-mi photography, you can be sure that we will incorporate anything, that showcases your hobbies, talents, likes and loves.

This is M sporting her vegetarian T-shirt...

and of course the shades... according to mom, this is SO Meghan. Well, I hope you have enjoyed your peek at the images from your session. Thank you so much for your patience, I will email you the pw, so that you can view the rest from your session. There were SO many good ones.

Can't wait to work with you again!

Sneak Peek for the S family[Lafayette, Indiana family, child photography]

2010-05-12T10:18:00.010-04:00

After one rain out, we met up at the park and enjoyed a great evening ! I had already scoped out a few locations with blooming trees, and was ecstatic when Mom told me that their color scheme was purple, white and yellow!
I LOVE the way the colors "pop" against the lush green foliage......
and I don't know what it is about this one.. but its probably my favorite! Like this needs to go on a canvas in your living room! I just love all the emotion captured in this photo!!

again.. the colors with this flowering tree is so perfect!

I know that E is not smiling in this one.. but it shows a 3 yr old's little personality. This one was taken early on in our session.. and he is intently studying me and my camera!..

Had to get some of mom and dad with the kiddos...

and I got some great ones of mom and dad together also.. I hope you like them as much as I did!

and since Mr. E turned 3 awhile back , we took a few of just him to document his BIG milestone!

Here are just a couple, but there are many, many more!

I hope you enjoy this glimpse into your session.. Thanks so much for asking me to take your family pictures! I had a fabulous time with your beautiful family!

I will contact you soon with your pw to view the rest of your images!

My baby girl turns 3!! [Lafayette, Indiana child photography]

2010-05-11T13:27:00.005-04:00

I thank God every day I wake up and see your smiling face and big blue eyes staring back at me. Words can't describe how blessed and privileged I feel to have been chosen to be her mama.

I love you to the moon and so much further , sweet Tatum Isabella!!

So SWEET !!![Lafayette, Indiana child photography]

2010-05-04T14:36:00.009-04:00

Meet little Miss M. She was quite full of personality and made my job so easy! She just played around and I caught her in action. At nearly 3 , she followed directions so well. I only had to bribe her with a special treat from the "lollipop" store once and she was ALL smiles!
(ok, and mama had gummi bears.. lol) and you can see she was thrilled to get her "treat" !!!

(there are many more of this sweet time)
Isn't she just a beauty?.... I probably could have had my camera on her for hours.. what a little sweetheart she is ! I was a tad giddy when her mom took out this lil tutu for her to wear!

and look at those toes!!

I told you she was a gem.. don't think I have many where she doesn't have a full blown grin across her face!!
Mom, I sure hope you like these as much as I had taking them!

thank you so much for a wonderful morning full of laughs! She is truly a gift and I am so happy to have been able to capture this "sweet" time in her little life =)..

a rainbow a midst the gray[Lafayette,Indiana family photography]

2010-04-26T13:18:00.009-04:00

we headed out an a rather brisk.. and totally rainy day. um.. yeah.. it never stopped raining the entire session... we just quickly ditched the umbrellas... ran for the alleys and had some fun ! I love the bright color combos that mom picked out. She totally had a vision for what kind of images she wanted and I helped her put some outfits and she scored some great accessories for herself. I think they look so happy and cheery! (we almost didn't mind getting completely soaked!)
Look at this beautiful mama with her two girls. I am so thankful to have known her for the last three years.. sadly they have just moved away to California.. We met only days after they had moved to town and our baby girls were just a couple months old ( and within a month of each other). Our two boys were just shy of a month apart in age also.
Our husbands got along great and we enjoyed our many get togethers as families. I was blessed by her constant invitations to her church's enrichment nights.

They have been such wonderful friends and we are sure going to miss them. I am thankful for their loyalty to my business as well. I have gotten to watch their children grow up from behind my lens. I have captured anticipation of a new life... and the sweetness of a newborn baby girl.
C was worried that she wouldn't find a photographer out in Cali and asked me to take one last family session including their newest little member =)

I sure hope that you like these pictures as much as I did taking them and going thru editing.... though I have to admit, it was a bit sad for me as my daughter was watching me , asking if little L could come to her birthday party...

We wish you the best in your new place.. you will make it such a wonderful home for your family. We have been blessed to know you and we hope someday soon to be able to visit you out west !Thanks again for trusting me to capture the personalities of your family and the memories for years to come.
Miss you.... =)

a change of pace[Lafayette, Indiana child,family, photography]

2010-04-22T14:25:00.006-04:00

So my sessions are normally full of wee ones and families... and I love every bit of time I spend with them. I love the chasing, and the coercing and laughing and making a silly nut out of myself to get smiles.. (really, I truly do.) plus, I love a mini work out =)

I was thrilled when Miss L asked me to take her pictures. She is gorgeous, and stepped up and smiled with out any fruit snacks tossed at her. lol... I think 19/20 pics were awesome, and that one is only b/c I caught her blinking (because my darling daughter was trying to get into the scene too..lol)

I love meeting new clients and getting to know them during our sessions. I love hearing their stories. As the morning show producer of our local WLFI television company, Miss L had quite the stories.. I had no idea half of what goes on and it was fun to hear a bit about the behind the scenes.

With your personality and beauty, I have no doubt you will find your spot in a much bigger market. I wish you good luck as you begin your search. I am happy to have been able to help you as you begin your journey. I will have your cd of images to you soon.

Anticipation...[Lafayette, Indiana maternity photography]

2010-04-05T15:20:00.010-04:00

I had the privilege of spending some time with this beautiful couple as they anticipate the arrival of their first child. At just 3 weeks away from her due date, this mama -t0-be was glowing. Her husband was too.. (I hope it is ok, that I say you were 'glowing' !)

I loved witnessing the love between the two of them.. I just know they will be great parents! I had considered another location for their session, before deciding on this park. When we met, they informed me that they had actually celebrated their first anniversary at this same place!

Thank you so much for asking me to capture this special time in your lives. I am so glad that daddy-to-be was involved too! I wish you blessings as you await this new little life that will turn your "two" into a family of three. I can't wait to meet him or her! See you soon!

Look who is One!!![Lafayette, Indiana baby, child photography]

2010-03-28T18:10:00.009-04:00

You met Miss C a little while back with her two sisters.. but being that she was celebrating her first birthday, we held another session just for her! She is such a sweetie pie and I really enjoyed all the time I spent with her capturing this milestone in her little life. She had just had her party a few days before, so mom brought all of her balloons(which 9 days later, my kiddos are still having a blast with...).. these balloons had some amazing stuff pumped in them.. (little plug for Marsh and their balloons)!!

Ahhhhh. I think those big beautiful blue eyes are going to come in very useful when trying to get out of something in a few years!! LOL
She is just so darling and full of spunk too..

Are you seeing a theme here.. yep.. her room is all decked out in ladybugs, so she got this bank as a gift . Mom gave her a quarter,and that was all the entertainment she needed. I caught quite a few great shots of her playing with her now toy. I am finishing up a collage that will look super cute hanging on her bedroom wall !

isn't this the cutest? I love baby ruffle butts.. .especially ones that keep with a theme....

and this just makes me smile.. and makes my my teeth hurt at the same time! LOL

This was towards the end of our session, and I think little Miss C was getting hungry! She definitely liked this bucket and I hope Daddy likes them too as she sported her 'daddy's girl' t-shirt.

I had a great time and it was so fun playing with different backdrops to match her new spring wardrobe, which was ADORABLE by the way..

Thanks for asking me to take these special pictures for you. Enjoy the sneak peek, and I'll be emailing you soon with the password to view the rest of the images.

three beauties[Lafayette, Indiana child photography]

2010-03-22T21:02:00.005-04:00

sister #1.....isn't she gorgeous?!!

Miss I was such a joy to work with and she could have danced for my camera all day! She surprised us with some model moves and mom, I think you'll have a hard time choosing!!

and sister #3 was full of spunk and personality the entire time! She kept me on my toes and kept me laughing as these fun and sweet expressions came across her face!

I think Dad is going to have a hard time when that first boy comes a callin' to date one of his daughters!! LOL

and then we pulled out the props.....

and sister #3... little Miss C....

I am just sharing one of this beautiful babe, b/c she had another session of her very own as she was celebrating the big ONE!!!

Thanks so much for asking me to photograph your girls! I had so much fun with them and enjoyed getting to know you too! I hope that I was able to capture some of their unique personalities!!

I'll send you a password soon so that you may view the rest of the images from your session!

the littlest fan[West Lafayette, Indiana baby photography]

2010-03-21T18:19:00.010-04:00

Go PURDUE!!! ( I just know this is what he was thinking during our session.. lol)

I am so happy that we got this little one to smile from time to time.. doesn't he have a great grin?

Meet Mr. J... he is 3 months old and just started the "Watch Me Grow" baby plan.. so I am beyond thrilled that I will get to see him again!

This is one that needs to be on a canvas someplace! I just think it is the sweetest image of this gorgeous family with their little blessing... The mama/babe shots are some of my favorites... love this tenderness...
and would you look at these amazing baby blues?... ahhhhh...... This family are proud Boilermakers, so it is only fitting that they teach their newest fan all about dressing like it!

I have some other cute pictures of Master J showing off his Purdue duds.. right down to his teeny tiny socks!

Hope he was rooting to night... BOILER UP !!!

Thanks so much for asking me to capture your sweet little man.. I can't wait to see him at our next session!

I will contact you soon with your password so you may view all images in your gallery. =)

oh, my sweetie pie [West Lafayette,IN baby photography]

2010-03-09T21:09:00.014-05:00

this tiny beauty makes me want to have another baby girl!! she is just precious with her dainty little features and creamy skin. I probably could have had my camera in front of her for hours...

she was quite the little model as we played "dress up" with her, and practiced her sitting solo. I have to say, by the end of our session, she was almost a pro for more then a few seconds!!

Can you tell that she is the light in her mama's life? I had so much fun with them, I am already looking forward to her next session... when we pull out the BIG bows.. right mama?

look at her grabbing at those tiny piggs.. LOVE it !!

and I love being inspired by my clients.. LOOK at this amazing quilt? um, yeah, mama made it for her daughter.. the colors are so delicious and worked perfectly with the distressed floor. I can not wait to try my hand at making one of these ! this sweetie is modeling for Chick Pea Hair Bows. Isn't that flower cute?

I seriously, can not stand the cuteness. I absolutely love my job. Love getting to play with babies.

and I thank you so much for asking me to capture this sweet time in Miss R's little life....

I'll send you the password to your gallery soon!
ENJOY ! =)

snips & snails [ Lafayette, Indiana Child Photography]

2010-02-23T14:57:00.008-05:00

and puppy dog tails... that is what little boys are made of.... =)

this was Mr.L's 3 yr old photo session!! He was not sure about this whole camera in his face thing.. but he warmed up to me, and towards the end we managed to get him laughing !

(but I'll save those for the gallery, mom) Sorry, you'll just have to wait!

I do like the calm and collected look he's got going on here...

and then these that capture just who he is at this time in his little life.

Thumb in mouth. Thats just him.

(but there is a smile hiding under there too.. )

Well, I hope you enjoyed your sneak peek.. I'll send you an email with your pw, to view the rest of the images in your gallery. There are a lot of really cute ones. I hope you like them! Thanks for asking me to take his pictures. I had fun!

my valentines {Lafayette, Indiana child, family photography}

2010-02-19T12:35:00.007-05:00

I am totally sweet on them.

I am totally biased. or maybe they have just "suckered" me with their over whelming cute ness.

I am totally blessed beyond measure with these three.

precious Miss J { West Lafayette, Indiana Baby Photography}

2010-02-16T17:39:00.005-05:00

Look at those eyes...... this top one is for mama... the outfit isn't anything fancy, but it has special meaning to mama so we made sure we got some cute ones of Miss J in it. I hope you like it !

(don't worry there are lots more too ! =)

this one just makes my heart happy. I love the little winces of tenderness and comfort that are on baby's face. just the slightest touch from mom and they know they are loved.

this might be my favorite shot to date. not sure why.. it just speaks to me..

I took this one in color, and converted it to b/w , but just had fun adding a vintage spin to it..

and look at this adorable strawberry hat cutie head !! got lots more of her showing off her hats.. still working on a little surprise for you too.

Thanks for your patience with me getting this sneak peek up. Due to mother nature giving us 2 1/2 snow days, and my computer crashing last week.. I got a tad bit behind on my sessions.

I hope you like what you see. I will be emailing you the password so you can view the rest of your images. Thank you so much for letting me capture this sweet time in Miss J's life. (and I really want to use her name, b/c I love it so much!! LOL)