KJ and I go way back. We were coworkers for many years before she decided to take a leap of faith and pursue her dream as a full-time health coach. Over the years, I’ve witnessed her journey firsthand. KJ is a beautiful balance of support and reality—she’s genuine, hilarious, and completely authentic. Her coaching isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress, and that shines through in every aspect of her work. Whether it’s in the kitchen or in life, KJ’s approach is relatable and filled with grace.

This retreat was a reflection of her heart and passion for helping women live their most joyful, authentic lives. I spent several days leading up to the event in the "admin house" with KJ and her incredible team. The energy in that house was nothing short of electric. Between prepping trinkets, setting up lessons, and organizing delicious meals, there was no shortage of laughter, deep conversations, and of course, a few moments of controlled chaos. Watching her team pour their hearts into every detail made it clear how much this retreat means to KJ—and to the women who attend.

The weekend itself was transformative. It was a space where women could come together, shed old labels, and replace them with ones that were grounded in their faith and personal growth. From laughter-filled moments to tears of release, the retreat was overflowing with love and support. As I photographed the event, I witnessed the powerful breakthroughs these women experienced. The beauty of it all was in the vulnerability they shared with one another—creating bonds that I know will last a lifetime.

Being able to capture these moments through my lens was a gift. It reminded me how special it is to be part of something that helps others on such a deep, personal level. My hope is that through these images, others will be inspired to explore their own paths to joy and authenticity, just like the incredible women who attended this retreat.

To KJ, her team, and the women who allowed me to be part of this experience—thank you. Your stories, strength, and spirit are something I’ll carry with me always.

Wanna learn more about Joyful Life with KJ? Visit KJ's website or follow her on Facebook.

Surrounded by family and friends who traveled from near and far, they tied the knot in a heartfelt ceremony at Esther's family church, Pilgrim Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Bangor, Maine. It was a day steeped in tradition, faith, and joy. The celebration continued at the beautiful Morgan Hill Event Center in Hermon, Maine, where the love and laughter flowed as freely as the summer sunshine.  

Esther looked absolutely stunning in her custom-made linen dress, with finishing touches lovingly crafted by her mother. It was clear that her family played a central role in making this day special, and every detail was imbued with love. 

Looking back to their engagement session, it’s no surprise that their wedding day was filled with so much magic. Esther and Carson were absolutely giddy in love with one another—so much so that their photos looked like they belonged on the cover of a classic romance novel! Their chemistry is undeniable, and their joy is infectious.

As the morning transitioned into afternoon, the dance floor at Morgan Hill was filled with energy, laughter, and love—a fitting end to a day so perfect. Esther and Carson, you two are a dream couple, and capturing your love story was an absolute honor.

Weathering the Storms (Literally!)
The day began with a whirlwind—quite literally. From the moment a dress zipper decided it had its own plans to the intense thunderstorms that rolled in, we had our hands full! But with their amazing group of family and friends rallying behind them, each hiccup became a reason to laugh, not stress. Especially, when a couple of the groomsmen decided to have their own first looks with groom.

When the storms were slated to hit hard they pivoted the ceremony and family formals indoors. Despite the weather, the indoor ceremony was intimate and magical, filled with emotional moments that reminded everyone what the day was truly about—love, family, and togetherness. The barn became a cozy haven, echoing with laughter and joy.

A Sunset Surprise
As luck would have it, the weather broke for a dramatic sunset. We rushed to their original outdoor ceremony site, and let me tell you—the lighting was incredible. Kasey and George embraced the moment, looking out over the fields as if the storms had never happened. Those sunset portraits are some of my favorite photos from the day, capturing their relaxed, joyous spirits after all the pivoting.

A Dance Floor for the Ages
After the whirlwind of events, Kasey and George, along with their guests, took to the dance floor like pros. The energy was contagious! From the youngest to the oldest, everyone had their turn on the floor. The music was pumping, and the joy was overflowing—it was the kind of celebration that felt less like a formal event and more like a big, love-filled party.

Why Their Wedding Was So Special
Kasey and George didn’t let the unexpected moments take away from their day—they leaned into it, trusted the process, and focused on celebrating their love. That’s what made photographing their wedding so rewarding. They reminded me, and everyone there, that weddings are about the people, the love, and the moments—not the weather or the tiny details.

Kasey and George, you two are an inspiration. Here’s to more adventures, more dancing in the rain, and a lifetime of love and joy!

---

Thinking of Hosting a Barn Wedding? Whether you're dreaming of an intimate barn ceremony or a spontaneous, adventure-filled day like Kasey and George’s, I’d love to capture it all for you. Contact me to chat more about how we can make your day unforgettable—rain or shine! 

Your wedding day is one of the most important milestones in your life. You’ve planned every detail to perfection, ensuring your day reflects your unique love story. But when it comes to photography, how do you find someone who can capture those special moments in a way that’s stress-free and true to who you are?

As a wedding photographer, I understand the concerns many couples have when choosing the right photographer. You want someone who not only takes beautiful photos but also makes you feel comfortable and heard throughout the process. Let's talk about some common concerns I’ve heard from couples like you and how I can help alleviate them.

Clear Communication and Transparency

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by wedding planning, especially when it comes to understanding all the services and costs associated with your big day. Transparency is key. That’s why I provide you with a clear, detailed explanation of what each wedding photography package includes—from a complimentary engagement session to downloadable online galleries. My goal is to make sure there are no surprises, so you know exactly what you're getting.

I’m always available to chat, whether you want to dive deeper into pricing options, ask about timelines, or clarify details about editing and retouching. I believe open communication is essential for creating trust and delivering exactly what you want.

Feeling Comfortable in Front of the Camera

I get it—most people aren’t used to having a camera follow them around all day, and posing can sometimes feel awkward. But here's the thing: the best photos happen when you’re being yourself, not when you’re overly posed. I specialize in candid, documentary-style photography that captures your most authentic moments. From the quiet, heartfelt exchange of vows to the joyous chaos on the dance floor, I’ll be there capturing everything as it unfolds naturally.

My approach is laid-back and friendly, giving you the space to be yourselves, while also offering professional posing guidance when needed to ensure you feel confident and look your best.

Capturing All the Important Moments

You’ve put so much thought into every aspect of your day, from the flowers to the family members you want to be present. One of the biggest concerns couples share with me is the fear of missing key moments. As your photographer, I don’t just focus on the big, obvious shots—I pay attention to the small, intimate moments too.

Whether it’s your grandparents sharing a quiet moment together, your best friend wiping away a tear during the ceremony, or the little flower girl rolling in the grass while everyone else poses for the formal shots—these are the moments that tell the full story of your wedding day. I make it my mission to capture them all.

Budget Concerns and Payment Flexibility

Weddings are expensive, and I know that finding a photographer within your budget can be stressful. That’s why I offer flexible payment plans to help make the process easier on you and your wallet. I believe everyone deserves beautiful wedding photography without breaking the bank.

My pricing is straightforward and adaptable based on your needs. I want to ensure you receive high-quality, professional photography while also working within a budget you’re comfortable with.

Managing Complex Event Logistics

Your wedding might involve multiple locations, or maybe you have a large family with unique dynamics. From destination weddings to intimate elopements, I’ve seen it all. My years of experience and my adaptable, go-with-the-flow attitude mean that no matter what the day throws at us, I’ll be ready. 

I’ll work with you on timelines, help organize key moments like the first look, and ensure every location or special family grouping is captured seamlessly. My goal is to be a calm, organized presence that blends in with your wedding party, allowing you to focus on enjoying your day.

Why I Might Be the Right Photographer for You

Choosing a wedding photographer is about more than just finding someone with a camera. It’s about finding someone who makes you feel seen, understood, and completely comfortable. If you’re looking for a photographer who:

• Provides clear, transparent communication and a stress-free process
• Makes you feel at ease in front of the camera with a candid, documentary style
• Captures every meaningful moment, both big and small
• Offers flexible payment plans to fit your budget
• Adapts to your unique wedding logistics, no matter how complex

Then I believe we’d be a great fit. I’m not just here to take pictures—I’m here to tell your love story in the most authentic and heartfelt way possible. Let’s make your day unforgettable together.

If you're ready to chat or have any questions, I’d love to hear from you! Send Me A Message

In a world that often measures beauty by superficial standards, it's easy for women to lose sight of their true worth and value. But here at MORE, we believe that beauty goes beyond appearance—it's about embracing your authentic self and celebrating the unique qualities that make you who you are.

As a genuine and supportive community, we understand the importance of creating a welcoming and judgment-free space where every woman feels seen, heard, and valued. Through our warm and friendly communication style, we aim to foster a sense of inclusivity and belonging, inviting you to join us on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

At the core of our brand lies the belief that you are enough, just as you are right now. Our key message—“Be you, be confident”—encourages women to embrace their individuality and stand tall in their own skin. Whether you're a seasoned professional, a busy mom, or embarking on a new chapter in life, we're here to support you every step of the way.

Through our website, social media posts, email mailings, and more, we strive to deliver content that resonates with your desires and emotions. From inspiring stories of transformation to practical tips for self-care, our goal is to leave you feeling empowered, confident, and elated after every interaction with our brand.

We aspire to grow alongside our community, building meaningful relationships and supporting women as they navigate the ups and downs of life. Our future vision is one of captivation and growth, where every woman feels empowered to embrace her true beauty and live life on her own terms.

As we evolve with women through varying stages of their lives, our commitment to authenticity and support remains unwavering. Because here at MORE, we believe that true beauty begins with self-love and acceptance— and that journey starts with you.

Join us as we celebrate womanhood, embrace authenticity, and empower each other to shine brightly in a world that often tries to dim our light. Together, we can redefine beauty, one confident step at a time.

Join our MORE mailing list and get our 6 Tips to Prepare for Your Boudoir Session and our Facebook group to stay in touch with us. We'd also love a follow on Facebook and Instagram.

Flash forward a few years and I'm photographing a small scale prom in the area when I eye a young woman who looks oddly familiar but I can't quite place her. But she had this big warm and happy smile, full of life. As I made my way through formal portraits of all of the guests I stole off to grab some images of the interior of the space when lo and behold there was Leah, DJing for the dance. We quickly catch up and it becomes apparent the reason that bright and happy teen looked familiar was because she was Leah's sister.

Years continue to pass and during this past spring's little league baseball season I was approached by a fellow mom and little league board member, Angie, who mind you, is the the one making sure the snack shack is up and running for every home game. I mean EVERY home game. Pretty sure she lived at the field with me for several months. Angie approached me and asked if I photographed weddings because her friend was getting married that fall and the plan they initially had for a photographer wasn't looking like it was going to work out. Camera affixed to my face I said "Yes! Feel free to pass my name along."

And folks...if that beautiful friend of Angie's wasn't our Leah. My word. Leah and Ben met with me for some engagement photos in August. The adoration for one another was so THICK in the air. These two have major chemistry and such a deep respect and connection. It's crazy! The move in unison and just a touch is enough to evoke emotion that will make any romance novel enthusiast swoon. They're like magic together!

And let me tell you. If their wedding day wasn't MORE of the same love story. The strong emotional connection between them, their families, their friends...I'd be lying if I said I wasn't in tears SEVERAL times that day. Watching the two of them, hearing the speeches from their loved ones. Folks, it's clear that this is a match made in Heaven and 1,000% supported by every single person in their lives. A brother that married them, another who's band played at the reception, the sister who stood up with them, the amazing friends and family that traveled from Rhode Island and beyond to support them. Absolutely, amazing.

I've rambled on enough...let me just share some highlights of their day, sprinkled with lavender, eucalyptus, and coffee. I'd never be able to use words to do their story justice. I wish I could have bottled up every spoken word that day so you'd understand how amazing Ben & Leah are together. 

Photographer: Humble Sight Photography

Ceremony: Pilgrim Orthodox Presbyterian Church

Dress: Spark Bridal

Suit: Our Place Tuxedo

Reception: Peakes Hill Lodge

Cake: Frank's Bake Shop

Flowers: DIY

Band: Fire Pit

The wedding planning process has changed significantly since 2020. 

I’m here to share some good news and give you the tips that I’ve learned over the past year. 

Who am I? I’m Nikki and I’m a wedding photographer from Eastern Maine.

I’ve been working with my couples to re-plan their weddings and along the way, I’ve learned a number of things.

1. SMALL IS BETTER

For the past number of years, I’ve watched wedding guest counts (and price tags!) grow drastically when planning. In my experience, this is usually due to family pressure or comparison pressure. At some point, a lot of my couples have started to feel like it’s not even the wedding they dreamed of any longer. That they’re only along for the ride.

THIS YEAR IS YOUR EXCUSE TO HAVE THE WEDDING YOU ACTUALLY WANT.

You now have full control over the guest list. You get to invite the most important people in your life to be there, and you have time to be with them.

2. YOU GET TO SPEND TIME WITH EVERYONE THERE

Typically, it’s rare for couples to talk to everyone that attends their wedding. Traditional weddings can feel formal, less intimate, and for some of my couples they feel exposed and required to put on a show.

With a smaller wedding, you can now spend time with everyone you’ve invited, let your guard down, and be in the moment.  

3. COST

Couples are saving so much money on micro weddings.

Prices can get out of control with traditional weddings, so now is the time where you can spend the money you save in other places on the things that matter most to you.

4. YOU CAN NOW GET MARRIED ANYWHERE

This is one of the most exciting things with micro weddings - you can get married anywhere.

You no longer have to look for hall to accommodate a certain guest count, while also meeting the budget.

Now you get to be creative. Some of my couples are getting married in forests, in backyards, and at restaurants that would not have been possible with a larger guest count.

5. BETTER WEDDING PHOTOS

As a wedding photographer, this is the most exciting part of micro weddings for me.

Weddings have become much simpler overall. Which means, less stress for you on the day. No problems to troubleshoot, you just get to enjoy the day.

This lack of stress on the wedding day, really comes through in the photos. 

We have all the time we need for photos, and we’re in control of the time of day we take them. At a traditional wedding, the photo session just kind of fits wherever it fits - which means non-ideal lighting conditions where you might not look your best.

Micro weddings, we can schedule at the best time of day for photos.

To add to that, you can now use the budget you saved to spend a little more on the details you’d really like to have.

SO HOW DO YOU PLAN THE BEST MICRO WEDDING?

My suggestions:

Pick your dream location. There are no longer any rules to where you should have your ceremony.
Parks, locations, and businesses are all really going out of their way to be super accommodating these days, and that makes your life a lot easier.

Spend some of the money you’re saving on bringing in great vendors. Budgets usually get stretched really thin because of the number of guests at the wedding. This is your excuse to involve all of the vendors you would want to have for your dream wedding.

Set up an on-location dinner or move to a restaurant. With smaller guest counts, it’s now possible to set up a small reception wherever you’d like. Again, whatever your dream location is for this, this is probably the only year that it will be possible to do.

TO GET THE BEST PHOTOGRAPHS:

Schedule your ceremony when it’s good for photos. 2 hours before sunset will give us the best light for photos.

Hire a photographer (pick me!) for 2-3 hours. That will cover a little of the getting ready, the ceremony, family photos and photos of the two of you. (There are also packages if you’d like me to come to the reception.)

My photography is primarily candid, so it’ll be a more relaxing experience than you might think right now. 

Safety in this time is a priority for me. I will respect all current, local rules.

If you’re interested in working together, please send me a note on the contact page, or email me at [email protected] and I’ll get back to you within 24 hours.

Thanks for reading and if you have any other questions, please feel free to reach out!

Chances are you already know the importance of carefully selecting a photographer for your wedding. What you may not know are these tips to get the most out of your wedding photos. They’re simple; and best of all, they cost you nothing while making the biggest impact!

1. CHOOSE YOUR POSSE

Lots of couples are misinformed when it comes to this part. They think the key to incredible photos starts with a killer photographer or an incredible location – absolutely those things help, but…

What really matters are the PEOPLE you choose to surround yourselves with.

At the end of the day, the world's most talented photographer in the most insane location can't change the people they're photographing.

So carefully choosing your peeps is imperative!

Please don't misunderstand me, I do not mean you should choose the hottest or fittest people in your friend group. Instead I recommend that you choose the people who want to be there. The ones who adore you. The ones who are going to have the most incredible time with you. If for a single moment you think a person might make the day about them, be rude or disrespectful to you or anyone else, or kill your vibe...

(Listen up! I’m about to give you the permission you may not realize you’re looking for.)

YOU DON'T HAVE TO CHOOSE THEM.

This does not mean they are bad people, or that you are a bad person. They just aren’t the right people for this job!

Instead try to choose people who get along with each other, or at the very least can be amicable for you. These people are going to spend a lot of time together and will need to be able to respectfully interact with one another. It’ll be super uncomfortable if they're throwing daggers and exchanging eye rolls – or worse, distracting you from what’s most important that day – YOUR JOY! You don't have to add negativity to any stress you may already feel.

Ok – now that we have that out of the way.

2. NO WALLFLOWERS

Lots of times inquiries include things like 'we don't like/want staged awkward photos’ 'we prefer candid natural shots.'

I hear you! I want to create an atmosphere that helps you feel relaxed so we can tell your story in a way that feels authentic to you. I want to capture your day as it was and highlight all the amazing people in your lives.

Trust me when I say, the best photos happen when there's movement. Don’t take yourselves too seriously during portrait time. It's my job to capture you looking incredible, it’s your job to relish in this beautiful moment. I’ve got you!

So, if I happen to pop on some music and say, ‘Let's dance!’ then get up and move! Don't worry; I'll be moving with you—no lame middle school side to side slow dancing. Get crazy, get lose – show off some moves you've only performed in the dimmest lit rooms, home alone while cooking/cleaning, or throw in some high school flashbacks. This is your time to shine. If you're like me and have the dance movements of a newborn moose, just do big movements, swing wide, kick up the dirt, wobble, if you have a partner swing them around, throw them up – have a wild time. That my friend is how YOU make the magic happen. Just have fun!

We won't always dance – running, walking, jumping, climbing – we'll be doing all kinds of things, but, don't worry you won't need finesse or to be in top physical condition for any of them. All you need is a can-do attitude.

3. EMBRACE IT

Unless the wind is showing everyone your undergarments, work that breeze like it's your own personal wind machine. I know you spent a lot time for your hair to stay that way, but Mother Nature is going to do her thing, you can't fight it. The best thing to do is to let it be, go crazy and stare down the camera like a mountain top god/goddess.

I know it can feel like the most annoying thing in the world when that wind or rain picks up but if I see that weather on the radar, I quietly get a little excited. I know these portraits are going to have a lot movement, moody/dramatic skies, and look insane. Movement = EPICNESS.

4. MAKE THE TIME

I know you don't want to spend too much time away from your guests. I understand, you're there to party with them!

So, let's be smart about it.

Prioritize time where you want it the most. If group photos are one of the most important things you want, be sure you make time for it.

OR

Choose a venue or location that doesn't require a lot of travel to save you time between locations. Have a cocktail hour that allows your guests to mingle, so when we slip out for photos, it won't be too obvious, and the party will continue.

The key part is planning. Create a timeline that allows you to organize a day that feels relaxed and flows – that way you're not rushing from one thing to the next and can soak it all in.

CARVE OUT MOMENTS INSTEAD OF TIME.

Moments with your family during prep, moments with your friends into the night, private moments with your lover during the day. You’re planning a day to celebrate your love; the photos are just the by-product. Get this nailed down and the photos are always going to be amazing.

5. TRUST

Photographers have a different perspective and lots of experience putting it into practice. You might be asked to try something weird, like go into a dingy dark place, but, TRUST me. I've got a vision and it's going to be good! When you tell a creative to just go for it, it gives us permission to take bigger risks and try things that haven't been done, playing it safe gives you predictable, going big gives you extraordinary and something all your own.

6. ALL ABOUT THAT LIGHT

You've probably heard photographers go on about this before, but Lighting is important! It's a Photographer's language.

Think about lighting during your planning, what time the sun will set, which rooms have the brightest light, do you have enough illumination after dark? You would be surprised what a difference a few strung lights can make to the atmosphere.

AND, I always suggest planning a little sneak away session around sunset, especially in summer, when the sunset isn't until later into the evening. This allows your guests to still enjoy themselves and you and your sweetie a moment for a few intimate photos and time together.

7. FEED ‘EM

Hangry is a real thing; I may know from personal experience...

Keeping your posse fed is vital – especially if you’re throwing back cold ones.

Make sure you to build in time to eat; grab some snacks or take a cheese platter on the road when we’re headed to portrait locations. It's a simple thing but can make a huge difference in your experience.

8. COMMUNICATE

If you have big things planned like, fireworks, smoke bombs, bareback on a horse, choreographed dance moves, drag races, air balloon drops, helicopter rides… Or even low key, intimate moments like first looks, gift reveals, etc. Tell us!

Your vendors are all about this stuff. And we're so excited to make it happen with you. Make sure you communicate early as there may be restrictions, advised locations, or times of the day that are going to work best.

Remember your venders have most likely seen something similar before or know how to make it work best for you. We love being involved with something big or special. So, if you're dreaming about something, let us know, we’d love to help.

9. LET YOUR HAIR DOWN

As your photographer, I'm here to capture you in your true form! So, get weird, let your freak flag fly… don't play shy and avoid being yourself. The best photos happen when you let your guard down and just go for it.

10. NO PROPS NEEDED

I know you’ve been scrolling Instagram and Pinterest. But don’t get overwhelmed by the things you think you need to make your wedding epic. The truth is you don’t need ‘things’ to create beautiful images.

I may use props that’s true, but they're typically random and not something you need to worry about. The best props present themselves at the most opportune time. They are the pick-up truck the groomsmen left around the corner, the golf cart your riding around in, or the bridesmaid's phone to help backlight you. It's the things that just magically appear that are a part of YOUR story and unique to your day. Of course, if you have your heart set on something specific, just let me know so we can plan on it!

So, props aren't a needed. Instead, spend time creating an environment where you're comfortable enough to be yourself, to try different things, and just have a wild time.

Back in February, and pre-Corona in Maine, I met up with Hannah and Aaron, for their engagement session.

Hannah LOVES goats so the Knotty Goat Soapery farm in Winterport was a perfect fit.

It really made the whole experience fantastic because the joy she exuded during the time we spent on the farm was so natural and beautiful.

And Aaron kept her laughing with his charm and witty sense of humor. 

They truly are the sweetest couple with a powerful, long lasting love story. Despite the pandemic setting their wedding plans back a year, I have no doubts these two will still be holding on and laughing together in the many years to come.

And I look forward to capturing this moment when they are finally pronounced husband and wife.

Wishing them all the best.

I have not been in love with myself, especially my body, for as long as I can remember. I have, however, made a conscious effort since having my daughter in 2004 to be mindful of how I speak about myself and body and how I speak to her and her brother about theirs. I wanted to make sure I did my very best to set them up to love themselves and see the wonder and beauty in everything they are. I could not prevent the rest of the world from thrusting their opinions on them, but, I could control how I laid the groundwork for their own self-love and how they perceived other people’s bodies. I never spoke poorly of the appearance of my body or theirs, but instead talked about all the wonderful things they could do. Things like:

“your legs are bigger than your friends’ because you spend hours dancing and building muscle which makes you strong.”

“Mommy’s belly is soft and squishy because it grew you and kept you safe until you were ready to greet the world.”

“Yes, honey, I see...what a neat trick.”

Sometimes the conversations are a bit awkward, I’ll admit, but I can mirror wonder and excitement, while following it up with privacy guidance.

I digress...

I’ve tried really hard to make sure my children understood the functionality, purpose, and amazing things their bodies can do, were designed to do, etc. rather than placing focus on their appearance. Now don’t get me wrong, it still comes up, but I try to reinforce those foundational concepts. Bodies are different, bodies do amazing (and funny) things, and bodies have certain capabilities that allow them to do even more incredible things as they grow. No body is like another. There is no mold from which people are made. Everyone is different. Everyone is perfectly imperfect.

Hmmm… sound guidance from a self-loathing fraud. Who was I really speaking to all these years? Certainly, my kids, but a shift started happening in me as I started listening to the words I was speaking, without realizing I was listening. I was so focused on the kids, the chaos of parenting, surviving adult life, and its obstacles. (A post for another time perhaps…)

That photo on my desk is one of a handful of my husband and I since our wedding, 12.5 years ago. That photo is a reminder of the only trip my husband and I were blessed to experience, just the two of us, in nearly 19 years. That wonderful and {insert all the words here that I cannot begin to think of to describe Aruba and the most incredible reset/recharge of my life} vacation pulled me away from my day to day 'chaos coordinating'. Seven days of being in the moment – mostly unplugged, trying new things, reconnecting, rekindling, gaining perspective, and getting excited about life again. Seven days of removing myself from all the things that I didn’t know were weighing me down.

That photo is a moment of time, I don’t want to forget. Sure, it’s a cell phone pic, a “non-flattering” pose, {insert all the reasons and excuses to never let it see the light of day}, but it means so much to me. It’s my reminder to live, not survive.

The person I was, is no longer the person I am, nor the person I am becoming. It has taken time to get here. It required fear of having children that would grow up to hate themselves and place their value in their appearance. It required deep reflection, persuasion, and lots of frustration from those around me (like my husband) trying to convince me I was enough; just the way I was. It has taken scary and significant events to understand that life is happening, now. Life isn’t waiting for me to be svelte and perfect to be photographed or worthy of people’s time. Life isn’t waiting for me to be unafraid. The people I love are here and now and they want me to be with them… here and now. A tomorrow with them is not promised to me.

So that photo is up for the world to see because that photo means the world to me.

Every now and then you meet people by chance.

You watch them from a distance. A silent spectator. You see their joy, their struggles, and their pain. You cheer them on as they overcome.

And sometimes, you are given the opportunity to be a part of their story.

I met Megan several years back during a blind model call. Our ideals of female models in society matched and meeting another photographer with similar feelings on making women feel beautiful with the skin they are currently in made it an easy partnership to foster.

Megan doted on her husband a lot during that first session. Smitten is a great way to describe it. Utterly, and completely in love with the man of her dreams. Most certainly, his biggest cheerleader too!

Photographing Megan was easy and natural. The conversation flowed like that of old friends just catching up on life.

It would be a long time before we met up again, and during that period of time Megan and Jeff experienced more moments of joy and unfortunately heartache as well. During that time I was the silent spectator, the bystander peering into the world of two beautiful people, praying they'd pull through.

And they did.

Congratulations Megan & Jeff. Many blessing to you both and the sweet little life you've created.

Thank you for bearing the frigid temperatures, wind, and snow/hail mother nature bestowed on us in April. 

My heart thrives on bringing joy and meeting the needs of others. It could be something as simple as making a home cooked meal or a special treat for my family; sharing a genuine compliment with an unsuspecting recipient; giving to others where I can at no cost to them, whether that be items that no longer serve a purpose in my home, money, basic necessities or it could even be a coffee at the drive thru; or one of my favorites… providing a comfortable and fulfilling experience that culminates with beautiful portraits of you and/or your family. Life gets busy... so busy with family, kids, school, work, activities, etc. Sometimes, finding the opportunity to give back feels like a chore and one more thing we’re trying to tick off the mounting list of responsibilities we have at the beginning of each day.

But, when you get to do something for someone else in a genuine, heartfelt way… When the gift you give comes back to bless you in ways you never expected. Those are the times when giving, isn’t hard. Those are the times when giving, is easy. Sure it might be nerve wracking and scary at first when you don’t know what to expect. But, taking a small risk of stepping outside your comfort zone to meet a small desire of someone else’s heart; there’s no comparison to that.

For almost a year now, I’ve been on the call list as a volunteer photographer for the Shepherd’s Godparent Home and Nikki’s Hope in Bangor, ME. The Shepherd’s Godparent Home is a no cost residential shelter for young women who are pregnant and in crisis. Nikki’s Hope is their parenting transition apartment where mom and baby can stay for a period of time while permanent housing is secured. What I love about this place is that they offer women hope, healing, safety/security, opportunity, understanding, wisdom, encouragement, and empowerment to pick them up and move them forward with love, compassion, and care. The Shepherd’s Godparent Home and Nikki’s Hope is truly a ‘hand-up’ and NOT a ‘hand-out’. They serve to make strong, self-sufficient, healthy moms and babies.

As the one year mark draws near I feel truly blessed to have met the women and children I have through this ministry. To hear their stories of what brought them here and to watch their growth as they progress is remarkable. Being able to preserve some of the most precious moments that can occur during pregnancy and that first year of life is a joy. But, to be able to capture those moments for someone who may otherwise not have the opportunity… to be able to show them “you are beautiful,” “you are strong,” “your body can do miraculous things,” and now you have given life to this perfect little being that will only be this little for moments. To give that kind of gift is so fulfilling. Preserving a memory, a snapshot in time to be treasured and loved for years to come. That brings me joy. That fills my heart. That is what keeps me on that volunteer list. No, not everyone is going to choose me. And that’s ok. But for those that have and for those that do, I hope they know that the time we have together blesses me just as much as I hope it blesses you.

Thank you, to all my Mommas past, present, and future; for sharing with me your strength and perseverance. Oh…and your baby snuggles too!

Nikki

Humble Sight Photography

For more information about The Shepherd’s Godparent Home and Nikki’s Hope, or to see their Shelter Wish List, visit their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/TheShepherdsGodparentHome

It was a drizzly start to the day, but, the rain cleared to a warm, slightly humid, June afternoon. A gentle breeze blew through the air, while the clouds hung low, filtering the rich sunshine into a hazy, dewy glow.

Jon and his daughter Nora met me at the car when I arrived at the location of the future home of the First Apostolic Church. Grinning ear to ear, Jon quickly explained that he had been there for 2 hours; ready and waiting. You typically hear how men are anxious on their wedding day, but, not Jon. He was ready for his bride to arrive; ready to begin the rest of his life with Heather.

When Heather and her children, Glory, Liberty, Honor, and Grayson and the witnesses arrived, Nora rushed to greet them exclaiming, “We’re gonna get married!”

It was truly a happy and joyful day for all involved. Spirits were high, hugs were warm, and love overflowed every aspect of their ceremony: from the welcome, to the prayer, to the vows, and the kiss. This intimate commitment was full of all the feels and connections you experience in a bigger wedding.

With wide smiles, starry eyes, and full hearts, Jon and Heather, joined hands with their children and began their walk together as a blended family of seven.

Many thanks to Jon and Heather for allowing me to capture this special moment in their lives! I hope you enjoy these images from their special day.

Fast forward to the day of Kaylyn’s session and I quickly found that not only was Kaylyn an easy-going individual, but that I was wrong about her shyness. She was spunky, fiery, funny, and truly up for anything. As we walked around Bangor after doing her hair and makeup, I soon began to realize how much more fun this session was going to be than I initially anticipated.

Kaylyn brought the fierceness, the silliness, and the sassiness. Never before have I seen a woman all done up, in a nice dress and heels, climb walls, lay on sidewalks, and become ‘one’ with the foliage… you had to be there for that last one. The truth is, Kaylyn showed me that even though you’re dressed up, you can still have full, unrestricted fun with your day to day life. Fashion is not a barrier to living your life fully. Being a woman can mean getting dolled up, and still climbing rocks/walls and playing in the dirt.

Laughing at yourself and being vulnerable enough to share your silly side with the people you meet is such an asset, Kaylyn. Thank you so much for sharing your favorite images from that Sunday with me.

(I secretly want her to be my personal stylist…)

With makeup done and outfits selected, we set off for downtown Bangor, in search of industrial and urban scenery. Lauren quickly became comfortable with the area, taking charge and making it her own. Whether she leaned on brick walls, posed in alleys, climbed and tucked into different building outposts, lounged on street benches or laid on the park walkways, we were able to capture a multitude of shots, and angles to make the session truly, her own.

It was an absolute joy to photograph, Lauren, and get to know her and her Mom. I hope you enjoy Lauren’s favorites from her session.

We started our evening chatting and getting to know each other while I did her hair and makeup. Kaia is friendly, articulate, and a gifted listener. All skills that will serve her well when her graduates from Husson University with a degree in Psychology. Her smile is radiant and lights up the room; especially, when she talks about things that she is deeply passionate about: her family, her sorority sisters, and the volunteer/community work her sorority does at a local and national level. This is a young woman who is deeply set in building relationships and making a difference in world around her.

When she was prepped and ready, we drove to Fields Pond Audubon Center (one of my favorite locations) for her session. The scenery did not disappoint as we placed her tall grasses, and amongst fields of buttercups, irises, and lupine. And one lonely daisy. Which just happens to be Kaia's favorite. We finished her session off at the beach on Fields Pond, where much to our surprise, the water we waded into was quite warm.

I hope you enjoy some of Kaia's favorites, as much as I enjoyed getting to know her, and photographing this moment in her life.

This past Sunday morning gave us beautiful sunshine, warm temps, and a nice light breeze. The boys gave me lots of poses, movement, and tons of laughter.

If you're in the Bangor/Brewer area, or beyond, you really need to take the time to check out Eden Salon located at 34 Abbott Street in Brewer.

My beautiful friend Heather opened Eden Salon in 2016 and it's by far my favorite place to go when I need a hair or nail service. 

The salon is clean, bright, and inviting. The relaxing colors, diffused essential oils, comfortable, accommodating waiting area, and the friendly and fun staff make this Brewer's best kept secret.

But... lets not keep it a secret!

Eden Salon carries VERB hair products. VERB was created by stylists in the USA. Their products are cruelty-free, with no harmful sulfates, parabens, or gluten. I can personally tell you, I was never a 'buy what the stylist is selling' kind of girl, but my VERB Volume Shampoo and Conditioner leaves my hair with lift and volume that I never knew was possible. And the price is affordable. Win-Win-Win people!

The staff at Eden Salon are chock-full of talent and specialize in a multitudes of treatments and services. You're sure to find what you're looking for here! Cuts, colors, styling, make-up application, waxing, nail treatments, etc.

AND... the service is second to none. You really need to experience what Eden Salon as to offer for yourself! 

Contact Heather and her team today at (207) 573-1177.

One where we talk about hard things and some really wonderful and powerful things too. Lets talk about you. Lets talk about how you feel about yourself. Lets talk about how you talk to yourself, talk about yourself, and how you treat yourself.

When was the last time you genuinely smiled in the mirror because the person looking back brought you joy? When was the last time you felt adequate, like you were enough for the people around you? 

A long time ago? Never?

Why? Why do we hate ourselves?

Really stop and think about that...contemplate it and dig deep. Why did you choose to one day start hating yourself?

I guarantee it wasn't always that way. When we were children, very young for some of us, we didn't get up in the morning and start berating ourselves about how we couldn't walk right, our food didn't make it our mouths properly, our eyebrows were uneven, our clothes didn't fit properly or match, that we had drool, snot, etc. spilling from our faces while we played and explored the world around us.

We all have those pictures where we wonder if our parents were fashion challenged based the outfits we had on...(be honest now!) But, we had clothes. We didn't care what they looked like. We were clothed. Whether they were new, handed down, clean or dirty, we were not concerned with their appearance. When we looked at the women in our lives, did we not dream of being like them? Caring for others as they did? Looking beautiful at 3 a.m. despite being sleep deprived while caring for us when we were sick? My mother was the epitome of beauty, love, and comfort in my eyes. She still is. And while I may not always feel that way about myself, my children remind me that they feel the same way about me, that I feel about my mother. 

Everyday is a new opportunity to love yourself. To treat yourself with the respect and kindness you bestow on the people around you. Lets be honest, sometimes perfect strangers get more grace and respect than you allow yourself. 

Stop it!

I've had to take a hard look at how I treat myself since my daughter was born. I never wanted her to lose her self-respect. I wanted her to grow knowing she was beautiful. That her body can do amazing things, and that her body and her outward beauty do not define her. She's strong. She's confident. She's intelligent. She's funny. Of course she's beautiful too. But, what I love most about her is she doesn't let other's opinions of her shatter her own self-worth. That is what I admire about her; because, that is what I struggled with (and still struggle with) the most.

Beauty to me, is no longer about what the world sees on the outside. Beauty is soul deep. It lies in the very core of our being. It's how we carry ourselves, how we treat ourselves and others, how deeply we love, and how freely we express our love to others. More importantly to ourselves. So even if it means you have to pretend to love all the things you've hated about yourself for so many years, you can fake it till I make it. And when you fail, you need to remember to forgive yourself for not succeeding, and get up and try again. 

Love your flaws. Love your scars.

Love your stretch marks, your brokenness, your worldly imperfections.

This body, this mind, this heart...they can do remarkable things. The decision you have to make is what remarkable things will you choose to do with them? Will you choose to be incredible, brave, and build yourself and others up and take on the world? Or will you choose to continue to hate them, break them, and hold them back from growth and opportunity?

There's a saying that you can't pour from an empty cup. So, take the time and spend the energy refilling your cup. Treat yourself kindly. Show yourself respect and grace. Take care of your body, mind, and soul. 

Your beauty is there.

That's what I want to capture.

That's what I want to show you.

You are so beautiful.