I couldn't help myself!  I just had to post a couple photos from this morning's session as soon as I got home!  Working with newborn twins always makes me a little misty.  Mine looked a lot like this not so long ago!

Well, my kids did it for the first time last night and thought it was the best thing ever!!!

(my husband, who joined them at around midnight, did not)

oh, and I let them photograph their little adventure on our ipod... I'll be sure to share those gems soon!

Have I mentioned lately how much I love my job?

There really is nothing better than Seattle in the summertime! When it's nice here, it's the best place on earth!  Really. Here is a little peek into the canoe trip I took last week with my boys and my dad.  We paddled around the arboretum for a couple of hours.  It was lovely.

What always amazes me about the arobretum is that it's smack-dab in the middle of the city!  And,if not for the fact that we were paddling under the 520 (one of our busiest highways), you'd never know it.  It's quiet and peaceful and full of wildlife... and it's a 15 minute drive from my house!  How awesome is that!

Seattle really is a great place to live.

Little Ms. Sawyer walked across the room for the first time today while in the studio!  I'm so glad I was there to document such an auspicious occasion!

I'm in a giving sort of mood.  So, my dear reader, I've decided to give away a portrait session to one lucky person!  Woohoo! What does a portrait session include?  An hour with me and my camera in my studio or at a Seattle location of your choice, an online gallery to share with family and friends, and a coffee table book of 20 of your favorite images! (a $350 value)

How do you get in on this sweet deal?  It's simple!  Just sign up! The winner will be chosen randomly from among the peeps on my newsletter list.  So if you want a chance to win, just get your name on the list.  If you already get my newsletter, then you are already eligible to win!  How great is that?  And as an added bonus, by signing up for my newsletter  you'll be privy to all of the special deals, sales and events that I offer throughout the year!

I'll be announcing the winner in my October newsletter.

So sign up now!  And remember, sharing is caring, so spread the word!  Tweet!  Like! Pin!  Tell all of your friends!  This is going to be great!

~Sandra

I know I always say it, but here I go again.  Is there anything better than a newborn baby?  I don't think so.

....The truth is fall is just around the corner.  And yes my friend, that means it’s time to start thinking about your holiday photos. I know that I sound like a crazy person talking about holiday photos on August 1st, but as you know,  August, September and October are usually our best months, weather wise. So lets take advantage of the pretty light while we have it!  And, by booking your fall session now, you’ll be able sit back and relax knowing that you’re one step ahead of the holiday rush!

Here are a few tips on how to make this years portrait session, the best ever!!

1. Schedule early.  Everyone wants those prime weekend spots.  But remember, there are only four 10:00 am Saturday morning appointments on my calendar every month.  If a morning appointment is going to work best for your little ones, then get it on the books now!
2. Think outside the nap box.  If you need to work around naps when planning your photo session, think about booking something in the late afternoon, or early evening.  That "Golden Hour" is absolutely stunning in the fall, and you'll get beautiful, dreamy photos out of it.
3. Pick a family friendly location.  Parents often want to meet at a playground or favorite park for their photo session.  But, sadly, choosing a beloved playground or park usually results in a very unhappy kids.  Most toddlers would much rather play at their favorite spot than get their picture taken.  Instead, ask me for a suggestions.  I know a ton of  great spots around Seattle, and then stop off at the park on the way home. That way everybody wins!

have a great day, and I look forward to seeing you soon!

~Sandra

Last week my dear friend and boudoir photographer extraordinaire,  Christian Mallet, was quoted as saying "naked is the new black".  And after yesterday's maternity session, I'm going to have to agree!

Wish I'd looked this good when I was pregnant!  Sheesh!!

This why I love working with families!  I came home from this portrait session so happy and energized!

 And aren't they adorable?!  Love!!