azoni family | lifestyle family photography | troy, michigan

Last fall, the Azoni family invited me into their home for a lifestyle family session. It was so precious to document them in their space. Because of the comfort of their own home, the girls were able to quickly warm up to me and we ended up having a blast. I wanted to share this session because I believe that one day in the future, this type of work will be possible again. Amidst a global pandemic that is honestly making this concept seem foreign, I choose to look back at this sweet time in these photos while looking forward and believing more of that is to come.

I miss you, friends. All of you.

You’ll also see we ventured outside, in the snow, for a few shots too (It is also currently snowing, today, in April, so…there’s that.).

Stay safe, stay home, and see you soon, friends.

xo

amanda

harbour annelies | lifestyle newborn photography | detroit, michigan

Last week I met Harbour; she is the sweetest addition to her family, whom I met in July for their maternity+family session. I love meeting new babies in their home surrounded by their loved ones. I love witnessing parents in their first couple of days or weeks as they adjust to this new human in their arms and in their hearts. And I’m honored to be trusted to capture it.

Do you have photographs from when your baby was just born? I have very few with me in them, but the ones I do have, I cherish. I don’t want to forget that version of me, or them. I want to remember the feeling of holding the little human who I labored over to get into this world, healing me with every snuggle and coo. I want to remember that new version of me who was so drastically different than just days before, when I hadn’t yet met this tiny life.

I hope you enjoy this little snippet of the Arntson’s new normal captured in these photographs!

xo

amanda


sloane | lifestyle newborn photography | detroit, michigan

meet Sloane!

She’s well over a month old now, but I had the pleasure of meeting her after her first week of being born! She was so sleepy, which honestly, has been rare for my newborns these days. It was so precious to capture her peaceful self during her session.

I was invited to document Maureen and Nate’s journey in pregnancy and then once baby arrived— this, friends, is my favorite. I love being able to capture your story along the way! Thanks for inviting me in!

xo

amanda

christensen family | vacation family photography | traverse city, michigan

This adorable family was planning to vacation in Traverse City this summer, and contacted me desiring a family session to document their time there. I thought it was such a clever idea! To approach something that you really desire, but might be stressful, and execute it while in relaxation mode on vacation! Andrea, you’re a genius. And it paid off, because we had so much fun running around on the beach and throwing rocks and shells in the water.

If I could do every session with this weather and this backdrop, I would. Thank you summer!

xo

amanda

gangwer family | detroit, michigan

For living in the city, you’d think I take more advantage of Eastern Market + The Dequindre Cut— for work and play. After this session with this family I certainly plan to! I loved all the vibrant colors, coverage from the threatening rain, and wide open spaces. 

 

Hanging with this family came easy. I’m grateful they brought some of their own fresh vision for this session and trusted me all the same— it felt personal and real and I really really like that. Thanks for asking me to capture your family, friends. 

xo

amanda

the pyle family | ann arbor, michigan

Are people blogging anymore? I’m honestly so out of touch that I don’t even know. But! There are so many photos from this fall that I want to share, and this seems like the best way, so I’m going to do it regardless.

I’ve been photographing the Pyle Family since I started out. This family {among so many others} trusted me when I barely had a portfolio! And for that, I am so grateful. For them. For the opportunity they gave me to grow. Personally and professionally.

They’re outfits coordinated well as always and their energy kept me on my toes, in the best way :) Enjoy these cuties!

Thanks for making it to the end! Would you do me a favor and spread the love? Share this blogpost or write a comment or even just hit “like!”— especially if seeing more of this season’s work is something you’re interested in!

xo

amanda




the kroupa family | traverse city, michigan

Guys. This family. 

I don't even want to talk about how the sky was the perfect color or how their outfits were on point or how the low hanging tree branches were picturesque or how Grace was the perfect little model. But yes, all true, as you'll see.

This family is dear to me and I'm honored to continue to photograph them year after year. They even let me design their Christmas card every year and trust me to make outfit and location decisions without blinking an eye {more families than just them, by the way, but this is a shout out to the Kroupas!}. They laugh with me {maybe sometimes at me? ;)} while I arrange them and offer them posing cues while we capture them right where they are at. 2018. Embracing this season of life and doing it really really well. 

That's all.

xo

amanda

uresk family | casper, wyoming

One of my favorite things about traveling and having family and loved ones who live all over the globe is that I get to take my passion for photography with me and connect with others in a way that I definitely wouldn’t otherwise. If you’ve been following along for a while, you already know this about me. But it’s worth noting again. My favorite part-- I feel so loved and energized through the whole process: while my family/friend is getting the word out of my future travels to potential clients, encouraging them to trust me; reconnecting with friends I’ve met solely because of photography, who desire to get portraits again; actually meeting up with said friends and photographing them; getting their feedback and staying connected as I get their images ready for delivery...the list goes on. 

Yep, even this introverted soul loves connection and our human need for it. 

All that to say, I’m so thankful for Bree and her family, who are displayed in the photographs that follow. She has been a treasured friend and colleague to my mom since some of family moved to Wyoming a couple of years ago— it seems like we’ve known them way longer! Bree has even entrusted my mom with the role of “Grandma Beth” to her littles. It makes my heart sing to witness their connection and the numerous ways God has filled needs in their lives with simply the existence of each other. 

Thank you Uresk family for your love. And your cuteness. Goodness, you are cute together. 

xo

amanda

hey! you made it to the end of one of my longest blogposts-- thanks for scrolling through, friend!

 

 

elodie jo | newborn | traverse city, michigan

When I first met Jen, I had known of her for quite some time, but we never crossed paths. When a dear, mutual friend was getting married, we officially met in all the pre-wedding festivities and were instant friends. You know when you meet someone, and you feel like you've known them forever? That's Jen for me. So each time I've spent time with her since then, it feels like old friends reconnecting.

As you can imagine, when she asked me to capture her daughter as a newborn, I was over the moon. A chance to hang AND photograph Elodie? Yes please. 

One thing is for sure, these three belong in front of the camera. Thank you, Andersons, for the authenticity and joy you brought to this session. 

xo

amanda

the chin family | gross pointe, michigan

This family is simply so lovely. I'm so thankful we met. During their session, we got to chat about the city of Detroit, the many connections we have through our communities, their sweet kiddos {and mine}, and our beloved university {go blue!!}. It was such an easy, relaxed time, it could have been over coffee and not with them in front of the camera. These images convey that, too. Also, pro tip from Laura-- mini marshmallows make excellent bribes+rewards for the cooperation of littles :)

Thanks for the privilege of capturing your family, Laura + Jeff!

xo

amanda

justin + jenna + alyvia | traverse city, michigan

It's no secret that photographing friends, new and old, is one of my favorite pastimes. So far, photographing families, babies, couples, seniors, and events has gone with me all over the United States-- Idaho, Arkansas, Florida, Wyoming, Illinois and of course Michigan. Living in Detroit happens to be super cool for many things, and photographing people is no exception. But honestly, my favorite place in the state for sessions is not Detroit-- drive a lot further north and everywhere between Buckley and Northport is where I'd like to be all summer snapping away. 

This spring, I had a full weekend of sessions in the Traverse City area. Chilly was expected, even a little snow, but not to the volume that was found. It happened to be a beautiful weekend (high 50s!) but the snow was so abundant that even after days of this warm up, the snow remained. So, we went with it! Sandals and snow? Sure! If you are reading this and you are from Michigan, you understand. 50 degrees warrants sandals every. single. spring. Am I right?!

This family had the best attitude about the melting snow, high sun, and mild temps that weekend. We had a blast walking around Traverse City, finding good light and catching up. 

Thanks for keeping me busy, Jenna! Can't wait till I get to photograph your sweet family again :)

xo

amanda

 

shane alexander | 8 months | clinton twp, michigan

This blogpost was very much not planned, but while editing these photos, I just couldn't help but share. I've edited these images in black and white-- I feel this session is captured perfectly that way. I can't really explain it but I'm hoping you see it too!

Shane was seriously serious, and threw in some smiles for the camera {or maybe it was the swinging...or daddy talking to him!}. 

I'm excited to share these photographs and I hope you love them too. Joe and Kristy, enjoy this sneak peak-- your images are coming soon!

xo

amanda

ellie ray | 10 weeks new | driggs, idaho

I think Idaho is the furthest I've traveled for a photo shoot? 

It may not have been why I went {it wasn't}. But I couldn't be around this cuteness and not document it. 

I was in Idaho this July was because I found myself within four hours {SLC with other dear friends!} of my dear friend Norah and I could not pass up the opportunity to spend 24 hours with her and her family, and to meet Ellie. So we took advantage of the situation and planned it. Being with them = pure joy. Our shared experiences go back to preschool, and now they include motherhood. Read: happy heart.

You may remember I photographed Norah and her new baby bump last Thanksgiving... here she is now with Ellie Ray, the sweetest little peanut who is the closest thing to a niece to me without actually being related. 

Ellie dear, I love you. Till the next time I get to kiss your cheeks and hug your mama, dear one.

xo

amanda

evie k at six months | ann arbor, michigan

One of my favorite sessions from the last month is this one right here. 

Evie K was so so sweet, smiley and giggly for the camera. She loved grabbing her feet, as you'll see, and showing off her big blue eyes. We met in the peony garden at the Nicholas Arboretum and took advantage of the hot day and green backdrop. Seeing my clients' littles grow is such a joy, and being trusted to document it is something I cherish. 

Enjoy these sweet moments.

Thanks for stopping by!

xo

amanda

amalya june | newborn | gross pointe, michigan

seriously guys. so many sweet babies. 

Since I've known Beth, she has looked forward to the days of motherhood. This little peanut was long awaited and is already so so loved by her sweet parents. 

The best part about this session was that it was actually two-- I got to meet Amalya when she was under 24 hours old and capture her sweet little face in the hospital! This was also my first time photographing a fresh babe in the hospital, and I loved every minute. 

Then, one week later, her newborn session took place at their home. This family of three was so inviting and cheery on what I know had been little rest. Amalya opened her eyes once or twice but mostly slept like an angel through the whole thing. 

Beth and Bill, well done. Thank you for inviting me in and letting me be a part of your first week as parents! Cheers to many more playdates in our future.

xo 

amanda

 

evie catherine | newborn | ypsilanti, michigan

I met little Evie {pronounced E-V} when she was just 10 days old. That seems to be, to the day, the time I meet most of my little newborn models. The timing is the perfect pause to capture lifestyle images like the ones you'll see in this post. And on those days, during the session, I feel as though I can't quite express how grateful I am that their parents invite me into their home during such a new, sweet time. Hear me here-- I am SO grateful. I love photographing new life, new parents, new families. 

It was an extra-snuggles-required type of day for Evie, which I always welcome. You'll see lots of images with her wrapped up in mom or dad's arms-- the perfect backdrop for a peaceful baby. 

Chelsea and Justin, enjoy your sweet little one. Thank you for inviting me in to capture some of the first memories with your daughter!

shane alexander | newborn | clinton township, michigan

On Christmas Eve Eve, I had the privilege of meeting Shane. He was only ten days new! But his parents and I go way back, thanks to my husband. {sidenote-- does anyone else's significant other provide them with stellar friends?? Mine does.}

I have many things I adore about close friends becoming parents-- their adorable babies {of course}, the ability to relate on another level, the kindred spirits in the chaos. But my favorite is the unexplainable transformation that occurs from the moment they become parents.

It wasn't long before these photos were taken that I took maternity photographs of Kristy, and spent some time with her and Joe. They were tired, anxious, very ready. Then, meeting them for the first time as parents, to see them with Shane, so in love with this little life-- it was beautiful. I was {am} giddy for them and what they have for their life ahead. Don't get me wrong-- they were tired, maybe anxious, figuring out all the new things. Parenting {aka sleep deprivation; caring for your heart that's now outside of your body; etc} is hard work! But now "Shane's parents" is a part of their identity, and it looks so good on them.

Shane, we adore you. Can't wait to watch you grow, little one. 

As always, thanks for looking, friends. I'd love to capture your milestones, too. Give me a shout! 

xo amanda

The Parks Family {Seattle to Michigan}

Life can be oh so sweet.

I mean, quite often I get bogged down by chaos and turmoil and drama and crazy but then there are those times when I get to experience pure joy. And it tastes sweet to my soul. {I'm grateful, Jesus. I really am!}

Recently I had a much too short visit with a childhood friend who was visiting home from Seattle. She hired me weeks ago to capture her family photos, and I've been anticipating it ever since. It was such a privilege to be trusted with this task!

With two kids in 2.5 years, it's no surprise that Becca and Phil have a lot going on. But their calm and patience and joy as parents and to each other was such a treat to witness. The day grew even sweeter since our session took place at her grandparents' house on the street we both grew up on. I convinced my husband to join us with our two littles and it was so fun to all be together.

Becca and Phil-- you're girls are so gorgeous and sweet. You two rock. Thanks for the honor of capturing you all!

If we haven't connected yet about your fall photos, shoot me a note and we'll get it on the schedule!

The Nowaske Family {Birmingham, MI}

It’s spring! That means more sessions outdoors and that makes me really, really happy. Green grass and trees and new life blooming everywhere as the backdrop to portraits excites me. 

Carolyn and I became friends {through a dear friend} rather recently but I’d say we’ve quickly jumped into each others lives. When I had the opportunity to take photographs of her family, as usual, I was equally honored and nervous to attempt at this role for them. Honestly, I cannot get over how friends new and old continue to trust me with taking their photographs and I hope it never ends. As I am able {currently 32 weeks pregnant, and chasing around a toddler!}, Jesus continues to provide clients and new experiences that continue to bring me so much joy. I believe that work is GOOD. And I hope to never cease to recognize that all good things come from His gracious hands. 

With the light drastically more generous during this session than the others I’ve had recently, I felt much more free to capture candid moments without meticulously checking composition. It made for a very laid back session with the Carolyn, Jeff, Evan, and Joslyn, in which I gladly got to know them better as a family! 

Thank you Nowaskes for a lovely morning and for your friendship! 

And for those who continue to tune in to my photo sharing and personal thoughts about life currently {and those stopping by for the first time!}-- thanks a million. I'm genuinely open to feedback or encouragement or collaboration and I'd love to hear from you! Contact me here!

xo Amanda