captured by mikki

{Grayson & Brittany- Engagements}

2011-02-03T17:50:00.003-07:00

Thanks to all of you for your continued support! We are a few days away from re-launching some awesome new things! Stay tuned for those changes, and head over to the blog for a new post HERE!

{The Jones Family}

2010-09-10T10:08:00.002-06:00

Check out the latest post on a sweet, new family!
HERE

{Brittany & Bryce- Groomals}

2010-08-05T23:08:00.002-06:00

Such a fun and unique couple...featured on the blog!
Check it out HERE

{Sneak Peek- Bride & Bloom}

2010-07-30T12:40:00.001-06:00

We had a super fun and unique bridal shoot with Brittany & Bryce this week- and got to work with Pam at Trifecta floral design. Check out the sneak peek:
HERE

{Layne Family}

2010-07-29T19:15:00.001-06:00

Check out the newest family pictures of the Layne Family:
HERE

{Happy New Year}

2010-01-11T20:52:00.002-07:00

We've been loving life at our new blog...just wanted to remind all who are interested that we can be found HERE for new blog updates, announcements and posts! Thanks for keeping in touch and for all your support over this past year!!!

Update your google/blog links with our new blog site so you can stay up to date with all the latest happenings of Captured Photography!

Happy New Year to you all!

{That's where you'll find me...}

2009-10-07T09:17:00.008-06:00

After a lot of work and some late nights, we are excited to announce our new and improved blog! If you have us saved on your blog or on a favorites list, please update it to show us at our new location since we won't be coming back here: capturedbymikki.com/blog

Thanks everyone! See you on the other side:)

Brade & Mick Platt

{Jenny & Landon- Wedding}

2009-10-06T12:49:00.008-06:00

This wedding was absolutely flawless. Jenny put hours and hours of effort into the planning and executing of every detail. From the dripping crystals on the trees to the horse & carriage, it was just beautiful. Even though it rained that evening, it wasn't enough to dampen the spirits of this bride & groom. What a fun wedding to be a part of!

{Friday Night Lights}

2009-10-03T09:44:00.010-06:00

We FINALLY got to attend one of my brothers high school football games on Friday night. He played out of his mind! The 4th quarter was pretty excited as Desert Hills intercepted the ball and scored two touchdowns and won the game! I know our whole family was nervous, excited, and emotional as our Berkeley played against the boys he's grown up with. It was really cool to see them all hug after the game and still walk off the field with tears in their eyes, but still as good friends. It was a great game to attend- way to go Berk!

{Fall is here]

2009-09-30T12:55:00.006-06:00

Brade and I got together with Maddie, Chloe, and Lee for a fun shoot up through the canyon last night. It is more beautiful than I have ever seen it in 4 years! Chloe was good enough to get back into her dress one more time and be our model. She is so pretty and so natural in front of the camera! It was a fun night and I think we'll make it a monthly project for ourselves to get together and try out some fun things.

P.S. If you're hoping for "fall" looking pictures this year, now is the best time to book your family session (or bridals, engagements too). The leaves might fade by the early-end of October so the sooner the better.

{Yes, yes I did}

2009-09-29T11:52:00.004-06:00

Just bought my pair of tickets for the Michael Jackson, THIS IS IT, theater concert show. Yes, I will probably cry, scream, smile like an idiot, and possibly pass out like originally planned for the concert in London. Braydon really is in for a treat!
But hey, it’s MJ, and I’m a huge fan.
Check out the trailer here- it’s going to be so BAD!
Did anyone else get their tickets yet?

{Ericka & Brett - Engagements}

2009-09-23T13:32:00.010-06:00

We are huge fans of these two. I've known who Ericka was for years so I was so excited when she called to book with us. I've never seen a guy treat a girl quite like Brett. He is the sweetest, kindest, and most loving to Ericka and it was so fun to see that. I love how they are together, the way they look at eachother, and simply just the way they love eachother too. Their wedding is coming this fall and one thing is for sure; there will be plenty of dancing!

{Stefanie & Brett- Bridals}

2009-09-21T11:29:00.010-06:00

Let's start by mentioning that Stef made her own vintage hair piece and bouquet...she is one talented gal! We both had a blast with these two- we just click so well and I loved that we were able to do this session before their wedding this coming Friday. They are both ready to finally be married and we can't wait to see everything come together on the big day!

{Garrett & Christine's Wedding}

2009-09-17T15:42:00.006-06:00

This wedding was back in July and it was absolutely beautiful. Every detail from the flowers to the beautiful handmade dresses worn by every girl, it was amazing. Christine put so much thought into her wedding and it showed in every single thing. These two have so much fun together and it made it really fun to be around them and their wonderful families too! Finally...enjoy!

{Emily & Kyle's Wedding}

2009-09-12T01:37:00.004-06:00

{Aloha}

2009-09-10T01:57:00.003-06:00

Here are a couple fun images from our session tonight with Emily and Kyle in Kona Hawaii.

{Eryn & Chad Engagements}

2009-09-08T13:00:00.005-06:00

I feel so lucky to be working with such a fun couple! I saw them at someone else's wedding that I was shooting and I told myself that if I got to work with them, it would make my year! I can't wait for their bridals in a few weeks and their wedding in October. Their style is really fun and so Banana Republic-like...Chad picked up his sharp looking suit while serving his mission in Spain; that's where Eryn says he picked up his style, and Eryn has always been so fashionable! Just wait 'til you see her vintage style veil:)
P.S. Their chemistry is yum, yum, yummy!

{Tricia & Jon}

2009-09-02T14:34:00.007-06:00

It tooks a few months to get this session together, but we finally did it and it was rockin'. Tricia & Jon have been married for almost 5 years and are on the brink of some big changes. Jon just finished school at Weber State & they moved out to Minnesota for him to start Chiropractic school. We started the night with some fun couples shots and ended at the Bountiful temple where they were married. These two undoubtedly have chemistry, love, friendship, and inside jokes with eachother. It was fun to be a part of it. Best of Luck Graves'!!!

{Kaely & Braden Bridals}

2009-08-31T11:06:00.006-06:00

I don't think we've gotten around to posting the engagements from these two lovebirds, but I wanted to give them a sneak peek of their bridal session. Kaely & Braden have been in love with each other since middle school and they are finally tying the knot in about 18 days:) Kaely's dress was custom designed by her and it truly looked amazing! Their wedding day is fast approaching and we can't wait for the big day!

{Toast}

2009-08-31T09:30:00.002-06:00

My phone took a dive off the kitchen table...and then it officially detached the top from the bottom, doing the "perfect 10" belly flop. I can now see white screen and rainbow fuzz. So I will be without a phone until 2 p.m. today.

I'm sorry to those that have called me over the weekend. We had 2 weddings & a few sessions in between so I didn't get a chance to go cry on the carpet at Verizon...today is that day!

I'll get back to you soon, and until then, feel free to email me: mickleigh11@hotmail.com or you can send me one via our website through the contact section.

Thanks everyone- Happy Monday!

{Our Trip}

2009-08-27T10:10:00.012-06:00

Since being married on March 17, 2006 we have been trying to make it out to Europe. This trip was somewhat of a once in a lifetime experience. So I thought about sharing with our blogging friends what we ended up doing and hope it hasn't been a Europe overload on the blog. (Braydon shot & edited almost all of these plus about 8,000 more...he's quite talented I think).

We started out in Amsterdam where we only spend a few hours and visited the Anne Frank House as well as walking around and getting some delicious pancakes. Amsterdam is also home to around 2.5 million bikes so we spent a lot of the day dodging bikers. (I actually got my arm smacked by a biker whizzing by:).

This is the bookcase that was movable that Anne Frank and her family lived behind.

Our next day we went to Belgium and took a train which was fun. In Belgium we visited the cities of Ghent and Bruges which were some of our favorites. The first night we ate at a place where locals were playing Bocce and had some fun spaghetti. It had been serving people for over 500 years.

We then went to Germany and saw some fun Castles. We took a little cruise along the Rhine River and relaxed.

The next stop on our journey was to Colmar, France. This is located in the Alsace Wine Region and was so beautiful. There was so much color and wonderful Crepes.

We spent the next 4 days in Switzerland. We stayed for two days in a place called Murten outside Bern, it was beautiful right on the lake. Our first day in Bern we went to the Cathedral there and went up 350 Steps to the top and then cooled off in the Aare River and the pools. Bern was a fabulous capital and we were very impressed by the Swiss.

After Bern we hung out in Murten which still has walls around the city and was very cool.

We also visited Avanches which contains roman ruins which were only found about 100 years ago.

On our way to the Alps, we stopped off at Lake Geneva. It is hard to describe how amazingly blue the lakes and rivers were in Switzerland but they were crystal clear. We went to the Cheateu Chillon and even went swimming by it in the lake. It was so nice and was a highlight for most.

Our next stop was at the Berner Oberland area of Switzerland which was just incredible. It is so green and the Alps looks just massive and jagged. We hiked for two days and enjoyed the views. They are pretty hard to beat.

So for the next few days after the Alps were working our way back to Amsterdam. We went to Burg Eltz which is a castle that the same family has owned for over 700 years. We then went to Cologne and saw the Cathedral which was massive and almost overwhelming. It was very impressive.

Ok and finally we got back to Amsterdam. We went to the Rijksmuseum which had several Rembrandts and Vermeers. It was an amazing experience. Rembrandt was a master at lighting and has his own lighting style named after him in photography. It was really fun to see in real life. We just loved this city. It is very interesting since Marijuana, prostitution and several things are legal here. It is also home the most educated people in the world. Amsterdam was a very smart, fun, and architecturally beautiful city.

And lastly I wanted to thank our dad Brent (aka Rick Steves), for all of his hard work on this trip. He completely planned it out perfectly and everything was so interesting and fun. We loved this trip and getting to spend time as a family in some of the most beautiful parts of Europe!

{Westbrook Family}

2009-08-25T11:22:00.003-06:00

This is the cutest family! We had a super fun night together and I just loved how happy their sweet this Addie was. She is on the brink of walkin' and talkin' and kept us all laughing. Bryson & Kristen are a great couple too; and make really great parents to their sweet girl who just celebrated her 1st Bday! I've known them both since High School and loved getting to spend time with them!

{Emily & Kyle -Engagements}

2009-08-21T12:24:00.006-06:00

We had so much fun with these two. They have been dating for quite some time and are getting married in Hawaii. How fun is that? Stay tuned for some fun shots out in Kona. We can't wait:)

{Jiggity Jig}

2009-08-19T02:46:00.001-06:00

Hello everyone! It's really late but we just got in from our flights home from Europe. We are hoping to get back into the swing of things ASAP- all emails and missed calls will be returned by the evening of the 19th, so if you haven't heard back from me by the 20th maybe shoot me an email or a quick call and I'll get right back to you!

Thanks!

Mick

{We are Alive}

2009-08-15T13:00:00.003-06:00

Although our trip is quickly coming to a close, we have had such a fun time. We have been from Amsterdam all the way down to Switzerland. Here are just a few shots from the view at the top of Europe. I will post more when we get home about what all we did. Have a great weekend!

{Ghent & Bruges, Belgium}

2009-08-08T13:27:00.003-06:00

Just wanted to post a few from the last few days. We have been in Belgium and it was just surreal. Bruges back in the 1400s was a large trading center and was bigger than Paris in its day. It is such an amazing place. We did a canal boat ride, biked around all day, carriage ride and even enjoyed some yummy belgian waffles:) enjoy.

{Haarlem, Netherlands}

2009-08-05T14:02:00.005-06:00

Hello fellow blog friends and family,

Just thought we would post a few images from our first day. We haven't slept in about a day and a half and I am ready for bed but just wanted to say that we are having so much fun and here are a couple from our walk tonight in Haarlem which is a small town just outside Amsterdam in the Netherlands. I must say we are looking "really good" for no sleep and no shower after a long plane ride:) I am officially ready for bed now I think.

{On our way}

2009-08-03T10:40:00.002-06:00

We will be out of the country "washing our hair" until August 19th. We should have internet in most of the places that we'll be staying in, but we are on vacation too, so we will be doing our best to have a great time! (We will return emails when possible, so if you have any urgent requests or concerns, please email from our website contact section).

Thanks for everyone for your excitement and patience as well.
Have a great August!

{Emily & Rad - Bridals}

2009-07-30T15:32:00.006-06:00

If these are an indication of the wedding day...I CAN'T WAIT! We had a beautiful morning to work with at La Caille last weekend, and a knock-out couple to make it perfect. It feels like Europe there and got us both excited for the upcoming trip- if only we looked like these two lovebirds!

{Baby Chloe}

2009-07-29T12:09:00.004-06:00

How sweet is the name "Chloe"? Well it matches this little bug perfectly; she is so sweet and slept almost the entire time. Emily & Brandon are great parents to her and just love her so much! Her aunt Liz made the beautiful quilt and I, well I just wanted to give her a couple of kisses but refrained:) Thanks for the fun night; newborns are THE sweetest!

{Stef & Brett- Engagements}

2009-07-28T09:37:00.006-06:00

Ah! I love this couple! They are absolutely darling and so much fun to be around. They both have rockin' smiles and I really like the colors they are going with for their wedding: red, tiffany blue, and white...beautiful!

{Jon & McKenzie - Bridals}

2009-07-20T11:17:00.003-06:00

Everything about this session just clicked. McKenzie's hair was fabulous, her dress was perfect, simple, and flawless and my heart burst with joy to see her beautiful Bloomers bouquet. We had some good laughs about Seinfield, shared stories about Europe and heard all about their excitement for the big day. It's going to be amazing; down to the blue frosted cupcakes with cherries on top. We LOVE this couple.

{Katie & Benton Engagements}

2009-07-16T16:28:00.006-06:00

I've known Katie since 6th grade and I can't remember a time when she wasn't the sweetest girl. She is the same today and is going to make Benton the happiest man on earth! We had a really fun night with these two just talking, laughing, and shooting. Their bridals are coming up in Roosevelt, UT and they are going to be so fun; we've got a collection of vintage cars to play in:)

{Eaquinto Family}

2009-07-15T09:07:00.004-06:00

This family is darling! The little girls are just beautiful and looked so cute in their matching outfits. They actually live in Colorado, so we got lucky with a fun session with them; I hope we can make this a yearly tradition! Thanks again:)

{Parker}

2009-07-13T11:50:00.007-06:00

Parker is genuine, hard working, motivated, and very knowledgeable. We had a great time getting to know him better with this studio photo night. We don't get to do studio too often, so this was kind of experimental, but it sure was fun! If you're looking to buy, sell, or just want to gain some valuable knowledge, he's your man. You can check him out here!

{ASHTON}

2009-07-08T10:44:00.005-06:00

We had a great time this 4th of July in Ashton, ID. We met up with my parents, Steph & Matt, and lil bro Berk (who had a mullet hair-do). We hit up the Alpine slide at Jackson hole and hung out a lot on the beautiful river. We floated down the Snake river on the 4th and actually saw a bald eagle in flight; Brade was pretty excited about that. It's so beautiful up there; the skies, the scapes, and of course the river. Can't wait for next year!

Brade took Berk out all night and they light painted while the rest of us heard stories by the fire.

{James & Lexi-Wedding}

2009-07-07T11:56:00.010-06:00

This was such a fun wedding! From the time these two tearfully said "I Do", until they made their sparkler getaway, it was so much fun! They danced the night away together and with family & friends too. I love that Lexi picked pink & zebra for her decor; it was so unique and made for some really fun shots! Congrats you two!

Laura at Forevermore Events did such a great job as the Wedding Planner. Every detail was covered and had that personal touch, along with being so professional too! Lindsay at Orchids & Co. did a beautiful job with the flowers & all the hair pieces; they were incredible to say the least!

Capturedbooth in action...

{Christine- Bridals}

2009-07-02T08:39:00.005-06:00

Here are a few fav's from Christines bridals a few weeks ago. She looked stunning with her Vintage hair piece, dress, earrings, and even her shoes. Every detail was amazing. We got really lucky with the weather too- it rained before and right when we finished. The wedding is next Saturday and I CAN'T WAIT!!!!

Bouquet- Trifecta
Dress- Handmade by her beautiful mother
Veil- Sarah Gabriel

This is one of my absolute favorites!

{Jaclyn-Sneak Peek}

2009-07-01T10:59:00.006-06:00

These are just a few favorites from last nights Senior session. Jaclyn is so pretty...the kind of pretty that lands the anthropologie catalogue. I loved her style, outfits, and her comfort & confidence in front of the camera. More to come, this is just a sneak peek. Happy 1st day of July!

{Jon & McKenzie Engagements}

2009-06-28T16:56:00.004-06:00

I'm SO sad that I won't be able to photograph this wedding in August! The colors and ideas for their big day sound so awesome! We all got laughing pretty hard from time to time during this session and I'm totally looking forward to their bridal session in July!
P.S. Jon is an amazing piano player and you can check him out here:

{Michael}

2009-06-25T16:08:00.006-06:00

The King of Pop died today. I am crushed. He was the most talented performer and artist in the world, and a huge part of my childhood. So many memories; almost like I grew up to his music. I took state on my high school drill team to one of his songs, performed at the middle school talent show to Thriller with Ashley Gwilliam and worked out to one of his old hits last night while running. Seriously...I am crushed. And I AM CRYING RIGHT NOW...

{Emily & Radley- Engagements}

2009-06-23T09:30:00.007-06:00

How they met:
They worked right next door to each other. Emily had just gotten hired as a receptionist and Rad's friend told him word on the street there was a cute girl working next door. So he came next door to meet her and FROZE and completely avoided her. His friend told Em all about it so the next when he came in again, he marched right up and asked her out! And they've been together ever since.

We had a really fun and slightly adventurous time with Emily & Rad. They are so great together and really equal eachother out. Can't wait for their upcoming bridals and of course for the big day in September...it's going to be amazing!

Fast Fact: Rad & his Dad own THIS store. He's quite the adventurous man himself!

{Eichelburger Family}

2009-06-22T15:45:00.004-06:00

We had a fun time getting to know this little family. Jack is just about the cutest little man. Oh my, he has the cutest smile and Erin & Ryan are great parents too!

(Garrett & Christine Engagements)

2009-06-19T10:01:00.006-06:00

We are having so much fun with this couple. Christine is the wedding planning extraordinaire and you just wait until you see her dress. It's incredible. I loved that they were up for a night shoot too, and also that they can pull such great vogue faces. (Stay posted for the vintage/"Christine is Hot" bridals:)

(This one is for Dad).

Love this shot.

{Laura & Eric Wedding}

2009-06-16T23:07:00.009-06:00

This post took about 2 hours to create, so I hope you all enjoy it:) We had such a fun time at this wedding- It was vintage/elegant and it really was beautiful! I loved that they smashed they cake into eachother and then how cute they were to eachother throughout the day. Laura looked stunning and Eric was just like BOND.

Vendors:
Catering- Basila's
Flowers- Costco Wholesale
Dress- Maggie Sottero
Cake- Family Friend

(Adventure 1: Bryce Canyon}

2009-06-15T11:25:00.012-06:00

If you haven't seen the new Pixar movie "UP", you need to go. It was a really fun show with a really great message. I guess it could be interpreted in a couple of ways, but it made me think. At the end of my life I want to look back at it and feel like I've had fun, and I'm pretty sure just being with Brade and the day to day things we do together will be enough to smile back on, but we've decided we're going to have more adventures together. So here is adventure #1: Bryce Canyon. (Now go see "UP" and have some adventure too).

{The Smith Family}

2009-06-11T12:15:00.010-06:00

These parents both have six packs...and I know how they do it. Their little man keeps them running around constantly! About 15 minutes into their session we had all broken a sweat! Beck is such a cute little man and he runs really fast too. It was fun getting him to giggle and go for the football. I went to high school with Jessica and it was great to meet her husband and little boy. They make one rockin' family and I hope they keep having little kiddo's just like Beck. He made me realize that I need more energy in my life, and to go running more often too. Thanks for the fun evening!

{Jessie Girl}

2009-06-08T23:25:00.009-06:00

Little sisters are those things that sneak up on you through the years. We still view them as little kids, dragging their dolls around, hair in piggies, following our every move. Well, this little sis of mine has become a person all her own, and she's all grown up...well, not all grown up, she's still a little kid to me:)

{Emily & Quinn Wedding}

2009-06-05T10:01:00.011-06:00

We loved this wedding and all that went into making it so memorable. Emily & Quinn are a perfect match and it was so much fun for us to be a part of their day. Although rain threatened to ruin the reception, it passed quickly and made for a beautiful night. These two lovebirds are spending their summer in Spain...how cool is that? Congrats Em & Quinn!

Vendors:
Dress: The Bride Shop (SLC)
Bouquet: Tai Pan
Small Cakes: Megan & Elsha Gubler
Cake: Elsha Gubler
Fresh Flower Centerpieces: Bloomers
Reception Decor: Forevermore Events
Food: Marvelous Catering
Reception Venue: Private Residence (Maybe it was in Europe?)

Beautiful friends!

All the fun details...how cool are those mini cakes? Bloomers did all the fresh flowers, and they were just beautiful!!

Future photographer?

This is my favorite shot of the day!

{Valerie & Greg}

2009-06-03T09:29:00.008-06:00

There are not enough nice things to say about this couple. It has been pure joy working with them and I can't wait for their wedding day later this month. Valerie looked so gorgeous in her dress; I'm pretty sure Greg would agree too:)

This could have jumped off the movie screen- so Romantic!

{Baby Callie}

2009-06-01T12:00:00.005-06:00

This little sweetie arrived in late May and her family is just in love with her! It was a task to get her snoozing, but we finally did it and I just love this one with her legs stretched out! More to come...(Her mama is Shellie (Wardell) Emmett.)

{The Other Side}

2009-05-27T21:35:00.006-06:00

So this past weekend I convinced Mikki to be my model for the morning. I told her to plan for a vintage look and really wanted to accomplish kind of a moody feel to the images. I think it was hard for her to be on the other side of the camera but it turned out being really fun and I'm really excited about the way they turned out!

{Michael & Rachel}

2009-05-26T22:14:00.008-06:00

What a perfect couple! They met a few years ago when Rachel was just getting ready to leave on her mission and Michael had just returned home from his. They stayed friends until she returned home and things just played out so greatly. (Is that a word?) They will be tying the knot in June and we just loved getting to know them at their engagement session- These two radiate!
(I knew Michael from school and always wondered who he would end up with...I always knew it would be someone just like Rachel and she is just as amazing as him, just a great match all around!)

{Happy Birthday}

2009-05-24T22:19:00.015-06:00

This beautiful gal had a birthday today. I've actually lost track of her age, but I just learned that she was born in 1962, so that would make her around 47. I didn't take out a single wrinkle and it's amazing how she doesn't age; I actually think all of us kids just keep getting older and my parents seem to be on some type of anti-aging gig. Whatever it is, I'm glad their mine, and I just wanted to wish her Happy Birthday. She's one special gal with endless multi-tasking abilities, the best attitude on the block, and a beautiful smile to top it off. She can even still do the splits, and I'm pretty sure if she had her old cheer uniform on, she just might whip out a back flip. Love you Mom!!!!

{Jeff Williams}

2009-05-23T16:16:00.003-06:00

For those of you who knew Jeff Williams, he was the husband of Julie and the Dad of Rhett, Summer, Raquel, and Danielle Williams. He was killed in a tragic accident at work on Thursday, May 21st. The family is devastated and it's been a very difficult time. Jeff was loved by so many people, adored by his family and especially his grandkids. He will be missed by all who knew him.

The following information is for the funeral arrangements:
Funeral services for Jeffrey Max Williams will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday May 26, 2009 at the Santa Clara Stake Center located at 1750 Desert Dawn Drive in Santa Clara, Utah. There will be a viewing also at the Santa Clara Stake Center on Monday May 25, 2009 from 6-8 p.m. as well as immediately prior to the funeral services on the 26th from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Graveside services will be held at the Mountain View Cemetery in Beaver, Utah at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday May 26, 2009.

Danielle is one of my closest friends. I haven't seen her for almost a year and I know this is an extremely hard time for her and her family. It's times like these when you wonder what you can do to help. I don't think there are words we can say to make anything better, but I want her to know that I love her so much.

I loved her Dad and have so many fun memories of him. When we were little, running around the neighborhood, he would always give us the biggest hugs and then rub his whiskers on our cheeks. That would always result in us giggling and trying to get away. In high school we played volleyball together and there were very few games that Jeff didn't attend. I always knew he was in the crowd watching his girl play, and he definitely had something to be proud of, just as Danielle did too.

He was never too busy to help anyone and I always saw him out in the yard working or with his family and grandkids. I'll never forget all the elk/deer hunts either, when they would bring home the winning buck; Danielle and Raquel were so proud every year and would parade around the neighborhood with jerky or something from the deer to show us all.

I always remember Jeff hugging his daughters; he was never afraid to give them a kiss at any time. That is something I will never forget, is the love he had for his family and the way he showed it.

I've reflected on so many things this week and one of them was the sound of Danielle playing the theme song from The man from snowy river on the piano. It too reminds me of Jeff- He's their man from snowy river and he will be missed and thought of every day.

{Cindy & Adam}

2009-05-22T16:38:00.017-06:00

These two have been hitched for a few years now and decided it was time for some updated photo's. Just think how beautiful their kids will be someday...
Adam & Cindy are quite the chefs apparently too; after a long days work they love to come home to cook together and cuddle on the couch to catch up on their favorite shows. You can tell they have a lot of fun together and have a very honest relationship; thanks for the night of fun and laughs!

{Brendan}

2009-05-22T08:42:00.004-06:00

This is one of my favorite Senior sessions so far- Brendan is a fly fisherman, and he's really good one too. We went up the canyon and brought his cute pup and just enjoyed the nice evening. He's just an all around great guy and it was fun getting to know him! (Oh yeah, and his Mom, Kim, rocks too).

{The Westbrooks}

2009-05-20T22:46:00.009-06:00

Nick & Abbey sure make cute kids! Bentley is a really great big brother to baby Nixon, and couldn't resist giving him a few kisses. Coming from families with lots of girls, it was fun to be around some little boys for a bit. They were so sweet! Such a fun and beautiful family!

{John & Lindsay Bridals}

2009-05-18T15:04:00.018-06:00

Lindsay looked so gorgeous at this session, and you wouldn't believe it but John did not lay one eye on her the entire time. He is determined to wait until the wedding day and he is in for a beautiful surprise

{Van Cleve Family}

2009-05-15T10:06:00.028-06:00

I can not say enough good things about this amazing family. I adore them. I feel like I am part of the fam when I get to hang out with them... They are beautiful people, fun, in the moment, and passionate about eachother. Such a fun time!

{Traci & Steve Bridals}

2009-05-12T14:16:00.009-06:00

Just a few favorites from Traci & Steve's bridal/groomal session this last weekend.
I think I like the D700...it's quite amazing. I loved Traci in the vintage bird cage veil too; it just fit her personality so well! She starts PA school in Septemeber in the NYC and her soon to be hubby Steve will be going to Flight school. A fine pair indeed!

{Jacob}

2009-05-11T10:37:00.011-06:00

Jacob is just an all around great guy. He is graduating from the famous "East High", and will hopefully go to the "U" and play some rugby for them as well. He is super nice, athetic, could be a male model:), and well liked by everyone according to his Mom. I believe it. Best wishes Jacob, you deserve all the best!

{Update on Sale}

2009-05-08T08:25:00.003-06:00

Hello everyone- we have SOLD all of our gear that we had listed for sale.
Just wanted to tell everyone thank you for your interest, emails, and kind words too. We're totally pumped for the upcoming sessions that we'll be shooting with our new stuff...it's pretty rockin'. Happy Shooting to all:)

(John & Lindsay Engagements}

2009-05-07T12:40:00.008-06:00

I have loved working with these two so far. {We have their bridals tonight and I can't wait to see Lindsay's dress!} John & Lindsay have known eachother their whole lives, but became inseperable last June. They both love boating and being together, and it's been so much fun to get to know them- more to come on these two:)

{Maggie}

2009-05-05T09:49:00.006-06:00

Beautiful, smart, sweet. Maggie is all of this and much, much more. She is graduating this month and is on her way to college with a full ride scholarship into the Graphics Design program. Anything she did at this session, was so model like and so natural. She is just a really beautiful girl, through and through and it was really fun to spend a few hours with her.

{Bodies for Sale}

2009-05-04T08:32:00.013-06:00

Hello everyone! I am going to be selling 2 of my beloved d200s and thought I might see if anyone in the blogging world would be interested before I put them up on KSL and Craigslist. They have been my backup bodies for quite some time and have served me well with no problems at all. I just don't really used them as much as they should be used. I am also selling a nifty fifty (Nikkor 50 1.8) Which I think everyone interested in photo should have. Its a great little lens. I am selling these cameras for around $500. So if you are interested please email me @mickleigh11@hotmail.com.

***Update...We sold all the gear and hope that the new homes that they go to get good use out of them.

(Rocking the Capturedbooth)

2009-05-03T00:51:00.006-06:00

Here are a couple faves from Eric & Laura's wedding this weekend.

{Spring at Temple Square}

2009-05-01T15:53:00.006-06:00

We ran over to Temple Square after a session the other night- it was amazing. If you haven't been, it's worth going to see. The flowers are endless and there are so many different colors and varieties, and the pink blossom trees are incredible... This is a favorite from Brade's shots that night- I love the tulips and the how majestic that temple looks.

{Greg & Valerie Engagements}

2009-04-29T11:01:00.007-06:00

We have LOVED working with this couple. They were so comfortable with eachother, with being their true selves, being in love, and were so easy to talk to. We hung out for about 3 hours. Greg is a journalism major and Valerie just signed her first teaching contract. Wouldn't you love to have her for a teacher? And Greg is clever, witty, loves ska music and his girl too:) It was fun, and lucky for us, we get to keep hanging out for their bridals and wedding day in June! (It will be here before we know it!)

{100,000}

2009-04-28T17:06:00.003-06:00

Today is the day. We reached a total of 100,000 hits on our blog today. Thanks to everyone that comes by to check out our latest and greatest. We are so thrilled to have the greatest fan club and hope you'll stick with us for the next 100,000!

{Girls just wanna have Fun}

2009-04-27T11:10:00.006-06:00

These girls are all about fun! They were kind enough to let us try out some fun, new things for Senior pictures. It was a perfect Spring day and I just loved all of their colorful outfits! They all just made Cheer and will be such great cheerleaders- Best of Luck for the next year...they'll be graduating 2010!

{Happy Earth Day 4/22}

2009-04-22T11:07:00.010-06:00

If I had the time today, I would have rode my bike to get to places, but I don't have that kind of time, and let's be honest, we all know I'd be panting by the corner of every street...so we took pictures instead...we live in a Beautiful World! (Listen to Coldplay...they have a song called Beautiful World).

And if anyone has a camera and would like to celebrate today with us, take some earth pics and post them on your blog too...then we can all hold hands somewhere and sing some songs from elementary school:)

{Garrett & Makell Engagements}

2009-04-21T23:17:00.006-06:00

Sometimes I feel like I am the proud parent behind the camera. I could not stop smiling and laughing out loud with these two. They've been dating long distance for a long time and are just excited to be together. They both play soccer, love the outdoors, and enjoy any time they get to hang out. If we can get the sunshine to stick around, we'll be doing their bridals this weekend- it's going to be really fun, especially with Makell's laugh and Garrett's sense of humor!

{Goal Setting}

2009-04-21T11:52:00.005-06:00

Growin’ up in the Ward home, looking back, has been one of the greatest blessings in my life. I have used the things I learned in my youth countless times in my early adulthood, thus far. I remember being frustrated at times of course, like most teens or kids at home do. But I wouldn’t trade the principles taught or lessons learned for anything.

My Dad always made a point of meeting with us 5 kids on a regular basis to go over our personal goals. He would divide it into 6 area's and tell us the importance of not having all of our eggs in one basket. Well, at 23 years old, I’ve been through cycles of having all my baskets equally balanced, and times where they were all in one, and maybe even a few broken, splattered or scrambled. Today, I’m setting a goal for myself to get my life organized, to evaluate the important stuff.

So, here it is: Feel free to use this theory. It works, and makes life better. Keep things simple, start out small. ("By small and simple things are great things brought to pass"...)
P.S. Summer is right around the corner, let’s all list some things to look forward to!

6 areas of Goals:

Home: Organize closets, line up shoes:)
Business: Finish up organization for at home studio office, finish marketing
Social: Meet new people at church, have people over for game nights, say hi to more people
Physical: Go running every day, at least go walking and enjoy being outside, enjoy the world!
Spiritual: Read Scriptures daily, Pray more often, read a spiritually uplifting book, write in my journal more often (I read through my old ones on Sunday, it really is so fun to look back on the things we've been through.)
Mental: Read a book about great attitudes, Start school 5/8/09

Summer Goals:

Lose 6 pounds (just to feel a bit slimmer)
Do really well in school
Travel to Europe (This is an absolute dream come true, we’re going this summer from Aug. 4th-Aug. 18th)
Photograph life- capture photographs and moments that really matter to me (Europe is going to be amazing)
Enjoy time.
Have more fun.
Go to the swimming pool at least 1 time. (I don’t think I swam at all last year)
Go to the Beach at least 1 time (This happened 1 time last year)
Go to a concert, maybe even John Mayer again
Take on some cooking, grilling, new recipes (Be a better housewife)
Laugh more
Love more

…More to come
What about you? Any plans, excitement, goals???

{Laura & Eric Bridals}

2009-04-20T12:30:00.007-06:00

These two lovebirds are tying the knot in a few short weeks! We had so much fun with the old fashioned truck they brought- it looked fabulous against that gorgeous St. George red rock! And how about their rings? Just beautiful! They were so excited about the bling on Eric's band too- it was really sharp looking! Laura's dress is a Maggie Sottero and it looked stunning with her matching heels- Well guys, we're on the countdown!!! Can't wait to do their wedding day post, it's going to be a beautiful day!

{Almost May...}

2009-04-16T09:37:00.006-06:00

Spring is trying so hard to poke through this wintery weather...hold strong little roots! (Although, the contrast of blossoms and white is awesome!!)

{Jiggity Jig}

2009-04-09T17:01:00.002-06:00

Off to St. George for 2 weddings, some bridals, and a few family sessions. I will be back to normalcy on Tuesday so please email with any questions and I'll get back to you as soon as possible..."BEEP!" (as in the answering machine:)

Hope everyone has a really great Easter!

{Deanna & Derrick Engagements}

2009-04-08T10:41:00.008-06:00

This couple was so much fun. It was a beautiful day, one of the last for a while, so we took advantage of it feeling so good outside:) I love how they laugh together, how she snuggles up to him, how he pulled her hair out of her face. Such a sweet pair, and I'm pretty sure their counting down until the big day. Small world: Derrick served his mission with Dennis Pitta and Brian Huber that we have also photographed...the world is just smaller than we think:)

{Emily & Quinn Engagements}

2009-04-06T13:21:00.008-06:00

Em & Quinn are just a really great match. I've known them both for years so it's been really fun to see them together. They are gettin' hitched this Friday so I figured I should post a few favorites from their engagement session. I can't wait to see their permanent grins when they walk out of the temple- their wedding is packed with sentimental details... Thanks for being such a fun couple to be around!

{Matt & Alex Engagements}

2009-04-01T10:38:00.008-06:00

So, take it back a few years...Matt & I grew up over the fence- he was my neighbor for probably 15 years or so, and it's been so cool to see who he ended up with. Alex is quite a gal- so pretty, sweet, a stud softball player, and a great match for Matt. I can't wait for their bridals next week; I'm just hoping SG will be warmer than the Christmas weather we're having up here:) Thanks for braving the chilly morning; I had a great time with you two lovebirds!!!

{The Starks}

2009-03-31T10:33:00.008-06:00

Oh, these two are the sweetest little kids! We started out at the farm so Luke could show us his new boots; he's a real cowboy! Then we went back to Grandma & Grandpa's house so we could keep their sweet little Mille warm and snuggly for her little picture session. They both have beautiful eyes, and Luke has the cutest blonde curls! (Their mommy is Chelsi (Leavitt) Starks, just in case you don't recognize these cuties:)

{Laura & Eric Engagements}

2009-03-25T10:38:00.027-06:00

These two are really a great couple. They have been dating for over a year, so it was easy to feel how much they cared about each other. It was such a nice day out, the blossoms were in full bloom too! We got some ice-cream, walked the streets of downtown SG, and made plans for their upcoming bridal/groomal session. We're going to be throwing in some vintage romance...I can't wait!!

{Anniversary Week}

2009-03-23T20:02:00.007-06:00

It's been a fun and busy week! We celebrated our Anniversary by going to the Jazz game with my parents and lil bro, Berk. It was really fun! (Even though the Wizards weren't so great).

Friday I surprised Brade by taking him to Switzerland...or maybe just the Zermatt Resort in Midway, UT. It felt like we had left the country, and Brade said it seemed like the real one. (He went to Europe with his fam the summer we met). If you haven't been, it's well worth the nice drive through the canyon!

Saturday we headed to Park City, visited the outlets and then drove up to the Olympic park. There were even athletes training so we got to see a few runs on the skeleton track, and believe it or not, we saw one run by the Jamaican bobsled team! It was really cool, and they fly. We both couldn't believe how fast those skeleton riders get going!

I really like Millsap's face in this image, checking out D-Will.

It was really bright out.

We shared this huge slice of cake at "Matty's" at the Zermatt.

Our rings. Brades could use a spit shine.

This USA guy was flying about 77 miles an hour. That's fast.

Brade went for a quick run down the mountain, he was flying too:)

{Kaeli & Doug Engagements}

2009-03-19T21:25:00.004-06:00

I like the way that these two smile at eachother! Doug was a little un-excited about being in front of the camera, but I think he just might have had a little bit of fun by the end:) Kaeli is just a natural, so beautiful, and so fun to be around. Just a mighty fine pair, and I'm certainly counting down the days until their bridals in April, and their wedding in May. You'll have to wait until then to see all the fun details unravel... See you two soon:)

{Luck o' the Irish}

2009-03-17T09:03:00.004-06:00

Luck (also called fortuity) is a chance happening, or that which happens beyond a person's control.

3 years ago today, Brade and I got married. I still feel like the luckist girl in the world to be married to him; to have shared in so many good and challenging experiences too.

He makes me laugh, he pushes me to be better, makes me feel pretty, and let's me kiss him whenever I want.

Yeah, I'd call it LUCK; I had no control when it came to falling in Love with Braydon, and to this day he still makes me crazy about him!

Happy Anniversary Brade. I L O V E Y O U.

{Shipwrecked}

2009-03-16T09:31:00.004-06:00

These are a few images from the workshop that I went to last week, in North Carolina. We did 2 photo sessions while there. The first was "shipwrecked", and it was in an old Boat yard. The textures of the rusted out boats were awesome; it was JAWS playyard:) The second session was a night shoot in downtown Wilminton, NC. It was a beautiful night and it was very interesting to learn about night shooting:) I really liked it, and apparently it's getting to be quite popular for sessions too.

Overall, I learned some new things, and figured out a bunch that I will be working on. Part of becoming great is being humbled, and then working hard to improve upon our weaknesses right? :) It was a lot of fun- and it was great to finally meet Millie Holloman too. The woman is brilliant, amazing, hilarious, and taught us so much all day long.

Seriously though, pulling no sleep for 2 days was not smart, but it was so fun to be in NC. Beautiful place!!!

{I'm Back}

2009-03-11T10:11:00.003-06:00

Hello Everyone!

It's been a crazy couple of days. We shot sessions all weekend in St. George, returned home on Sunday, and then I jumped on a few planes Sunday night and spent all day Monday with the brilliant Millie Holloman & her staff, in North Carolina, for her One to Ten Workshop... From 10 a.m. until well after midnight, it was A M A Z I N G! I will post more about what we did when my brain is back.

Although exhausted and not functioning properly yet:), I can't even start to explain the excitement that I feel right now. Things are going to be better in every aspect, in every way.

So, after not sleeping for a few days, after moving, and just barely getting our internet working (I love moving), please be patient for a few more days. I will be getting back to everyones emails and messages ASAP.

Thank you, Hugs to you all:)

{Alissa & Ryan Bridals}

2009-03-10T22:16:00.004-06:00

Gorgeous Couple! For once the wind was our friend through this session. Most of the time it's frustrating with wind since it tends to move things, like hair, out of place when you don't want it to. But it worked it's magic with Alissa's chapel length veil and it was amazing.

Alissa had saved a picture, from when she was little, of the dress she wanted for her future wedding day. So when she walked into the dress store, she knew this one was "the one"; it was so beautiful! Her flowers were gorgeous, she actually did her own hair, and Ryan looked quite stunning himself, and was so helpful too! These two get married this Friday in St. George; it's going to be a beautiful day!

Flowers: Bloomers
Dress: Abella Bridal

{Chloe & Sean Bridals}

2009-03-07T14:38:00.005-07:00

These two lovebrids are getting married on Friday...and they are really great together. I'm so excited for them to tie the knot, and I'm pretty sure they are too! Thanks for letting us hang out with you for a bit. I loved the umbrella:)

{Vote for Oakleigh}

2009-03-04T09:26:00.004-07:00

Thank you SO much to all of you that have voted for Oakleigh in her first photo contest! We are tied for 1st place right now, and have until tomorrow until the Voting door closes- so head on over an Vote if you haven't already. And THANK YOU to all of you that have voted!!!

VOTE HERE

Thanks again:)

{LashOut! Eyelash Extension Shoot}

2009-03-03T08:21:00.006-07:00

We got asked to do this shoot for an eyelash extension company, LashOut. I didn't realize how cool the extensions were until I got there; they are beautiful! I pictured them being more like spiders attacking someones eyelid:) Our models were so much fun, and I didn't know until the end, but the two brunettes are actually sisters...fun huh? And I'm pretty sure we all wished for blonde curls like Tiffany too! We'll be doing another fashion shoot in a few weeks and we can't wait! Fashion = FUN!!

{Photo Contest- Please VOTE}

2009-02-27T10:18:00.004-07:00

Hi Everyone!
I entered my sweet niece, Oakleigh, into a little photo contest-
The theme was "Love is in the Air"... so we put her in her little love bug outfit and gave her a heart balloon.

She is so sweet, and if we win, she gets a $100 gift card to the most awesome Children's Boutique- Kinderwinkel.
Go HERE to VOTE; VOTE FOR #4. (You can vote on the top right corner of their blog).
Thanks for your help!!! Voting ends March 5th, and winners are announced March 6th- so hurry on over, just a few more days.

{Moving Day}

2009-02-26T10:50:00.004-07:00

Hello everyone- we are moving today, so I won't be connected to my computers for the next few hours, so please don't be mad when I don't write back as quickly as I normally do. I'll get hooked up and connected ASAP...

We're only moving up the road: from Orem to Pleasant Grove. We'll be PGnites, or something. And today is the birthday eve of Brades 27th, tomorrow we party:)