Bissig Photography Blog

Moving the Blog...

2011-01-13T14:01:00.000-08:00

This blog has moved!

Please check me out at

http://www.bissigphotography.com/blog/!

See you there!

Toy {Weekly Photo Challenge}

2011-01-11T10:04:00.000-08:00

This week's photo challenge is "toy." I was planning on getting a shot of my favorite children's toy - art supplies! I wasn't intending to include a little hand, but my youngest felt like he needed to assist. And I'm so glad ~ I love his little hand in the photo!

Here are the rest of the group's photos this week:

Jess Bishop :: Jen Gentry :: Brooke :: Aimee Fredy

Night {Weekly Photo Challenge}

2011-01-04T13:10:00.000-08:00

This week's photo challenge is "night." Here's my photo, followed by the rest of the group.

Jess Bishop :

Jen Gentry :

Brooke:

Aimee Fredy:

Tree {Weekly Photo Challenge}

2010-12-28T07:04:00.000-08:00

This week's photo challenge is "tree." Here's my image:

And here are the rest of the group's photos this week...

Jess Bishop :

Jen Gentry :

Aimee Fredy:

KeriAnn Dalebout :

I hope everyone had a lovely Christmas and is gearing up for a fun celebration of the end of 2010!

The Schawl Wedding {Half Moon Bay Wedding Photography}

2010-12-27T11:19:00.000-08:00

When Rhonda contacted me about a December wedding at the beach, I have to admit I was a little nervous. Those nerves were for waste - this could not have been a more beautiful wedding weekend. The weather, the location, the ceremony, the reception - all perfect!

The ceremony and reception were both held at the Oceano Hotel & Spa in Half Moon Bay. It was beautiful beyond words.

Immediately after the ceremony, we rushed to the beach to get some portraits before the sun went down. These two were up for anything and their love just radiates. After editing the massive amount of photos I took, I'm a little convinced these two don't take a bad photo! :)

Isn't a private walk on the beach an amazing way to start off a marriage?

Back at the hotel, we dusted the sand off our toes and took more formal photos with the bride's children and the rest of the family.

And a few more of the bride & groom...

Once inside the reception, Rhonda & Bud danced the night away with their guests.

Congratulations to a beautiful couple! Thank you so much for choosing me to photograph this remarkable day ~ I am truly honored to have been there.

Please contact me if you are interested in learning more about my wedding photography or event photography services.

Boots {Weekly Photo}

2010-12-21T17:57:00.000-08:00

I am participating in a weekly photo challenge with a group of photographers. I joined a little late, but my first week's entry is this one - "boots." These cowboy boots once belonged to my husband and now fit our toddler son. It makes me smile.

It was a fun challenge to come up with something and I loved getting my creative juices flowing with a new challenge.

Here are the rest of the group's entries.

Aimee Fredy:

Jen Gentry :

Brooke Beasley Photography :

KeriAnn Dalebout :

Jess Bishop :

Can't wait for next week's challenge!

The Donis Family {Hanford Family Photographer}

2010-12-21T16:42:00.000-08:00

The Attebery Wedding {Hanford Wedding Photographer}

2010-12-04T21:57:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I photographed a wedding! I had almost forgotten how much fun it is to have a backstage pass to document the journey a couple makes into married life. I took a break during my pregnancy and after my son was born, but this December I resumed wedding photography with two amazing Winter Weddings. The first was this amazing day with The Attebery's.

The Groom sent his bride a beautiful long-stemmed rose to his soon-to-be wife along with a card that simply said "I Love You" and their wedding date. It definitely brought some smiles to the ladies at the salon as they prepared for the big day.

Casey is a truly beautiful bride...

The ceremony was held at the 100-year-old Episcopal Church in Hanford. It is truly one of those churches that is so beautiful it takes your breath away.

Husband and wife, just after their wedding ceremony.

It rained in the morning, but cleared up just in time for the ceremony, allowing us to capture some beautiful portraits outside of the church.

The bride and groom and their children in front of the church...

Casey & Chad - thank you for asking me to be your wedding photographer! I wish you a lifetime of happiness! Congratulations!

P.S. It's hard to pick only a few favorites from nearly 600 finished images!!

Please contact me if you are interested in learning more about my wedding photography services.

Remember these guys? {Hanford Child Photographer}

2010-11-25T10:37:00.000-08:00

Do you remember these cute cousins? We braved some very, very cold weather on Thanksgiving morning to get some cute one-year-old portraits. But cold, cold, cold weather provides opportunity for some super cute baby hats! Love the moose!

And he was a happy camper, even with a little chill...

And mom said that the older boys only agreed to take the photos if they could wear their favorite Steelers' attire.

Please contact me if you would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Hanford, Kings County, or Sonoma County! *There IS still time to get a great family or child portrait for 2010.

Happy Thanksgiving {Hanford Nature Photography}

2010-11-24T07:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I am thankful for so many things. My family, my cute little kidlets, and all of the amazing places I get to see and photograph.

I am so thankful to all of my 2010 clients - amazing families and babies! Thank you all for choosing me and letting me call this a career. I hope you enjoy Thanksgiving with your loved ones and take a picture or two to remember the day.

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Hanford, Kings County, or Sonoma County! Gift certificates are also available upon request!

Skonovds {Fresno Family Photography}

2010-11-18T10:37:00.000-08:00

More Autumn colors and more family portraits - it's really no wonder why this is my favorite time of year!

Thank you to the Skonovd family for meeting me! It was fun to see you all and catch up a little bit! XOXO.

Please contact me if you would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Hanford, Kings County, or Sonoma County! *There IS still time to get a great family or child portrait for 2010. Contact me if you'd like to schedule an appointment!

Ivie Family {Hanford Family Photography}

2010-11-17T15:18:00.000-08:00

I love family portraits and I love Autumn colors. This day was perfect for both!

Seriously amazing colors. I think this one needs to be enlarged. BIG.

Thank you, Ivie family, for choosing me to be your family photographer!

Please contact me if you would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Hanford, Kings County, or Sonoma County! *There IS still time to get a great family or child portrait for 2010. Contact me if you'd like to schedule an appointment!

Monarchs {Hanford Nature Photography}

2010-11-16T11:24:00.000-08:00

On the last day of our recent vacation on the coast, we stopped in at the Pismo Beach Monarch Grove. It's free and pretty remarkable to see 14,000 butterflies* in the trees.

*I am taking their word on the # of butterflies, I did not count them myself... ;)

Do you love butterflies? Would you like to order a print? Please contact me!

Bush Family {Hanford Family Photography}

2010-11-13T10:25:00.000-08:00

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Hanford, Kings County, or Sonoma County!

There IS still time to get a great family or child portrait for 2010. Contact me if you'd like to schedule an appointment!

Halloween 2010 {Hanford Children's Photography}

2010-10-31T10:49:00.000-07:00

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Hanford, Kings County, or Sonoma County!

My Family {Hanford Family Photography}

2010-10-18T15:23:00.000-07:00

We spent Saturday afternoon at Sequoia National Park and took the opportunity to shoot some self-portraits of my family. And some shots of the amazing national park in our backyard. Seriously breathtaking!

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Hanford, Kings County, or Sonoma County!

From the Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-16T12:17:00.000-07:00

One of our annual traditions is to visit the pumpkin patch with the kids. Here are a few pictures from this year's trip. And some portraits of my cuties in their costumes coming soon.

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Hanford, Kings County, or Sonoma County!

Wine Country Summer

2010-09-29T20:59:00.000-07:00

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Hanford, Kings County, or Sonoma County!

One Year {Hanford Child Photography}

2010-08-31T15:54:00.000-07:00

Where does the time go? Didn't I post these photos just a couple of weeks ago?

My son turns one this week. He is sweet, content, easygoing, happy, and busy. He rarely cries and has few complaints. Already we can tell he is smart and very clever and determined. He does not like to be told no. He's a great eater, wonderful sleeper, happy traveler, and all around a pleasure to be with. I am a proud mommy.

He has an excellent pout and isn't afraid to use it - especially if someone is telling him "no."

He loves his mama like nothing I've seen before. That old saying "mama's boy & daddy's girl" definitely hold true in this household. Matthew keeps a close eye on me and doesn't like me to wander too far away. The feeling is mutual.

He's such a delight and this first year with him has flown by. I'm sad and emotional to reach this milestone already, but so proud of him. He's been a wonderful baby and I am honored to be his mommy. He has blessed our family so much.

I couldn't resist getting a couple of pictures of both of the kids together. They are my world.

Can you tell she loves being a big sister?

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Hanford, Kings County, or Sonoma County!

Three Generations {Hanford Family Portrait Photography}

2010-08-24T19:45:00.001-07:00

It's always such a compliment to have return customers. Especially this family - these kids are so sweet and such a pleasure to photograph. This time, I got to meet some of the extended family when they were in town.

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

Sunflowers {Hanford Nature Photography}

2010-08-15T13:52:00.000-07:00

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

Snapdragons {Hanford Nature Photography}

2010-08-09T15:49:00.000-07:00

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

The Dyer Family {Santa Rosa Family Photography}

2010-07-30T13:46:00.000-07:00

They don't come much cuter, sweeter, or more adorable than the Dyer family. I was so honored that they asked me to photograph them during my recent visit to Santa Rosa.

Is there anything more lovable than a freckle-faced blonde missing her two front teeth?

Thank you, Dyer family! I hope you love your photos as much as I do!

Bissig Photography provides maternity, newborn, child, and family portraits. Please contact me if you would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

Andrade Family {Santa Rosa Family Photography}

2010-07-27T08:32:00.000-07:00

Some people don't enjoy photographing two-year-olds. But, more and more, I find myself loving this age the most. True, they're unpredictable and can be a challenge to capture, but with a little patience and understanding, it's so much fun! And little Aiden was no exception. He is super fast and doesn't hold still for long. He's also amazingly affectionate and adorable. And those eyelashes! Oh my goodness.

Thank you, Andrade family, for choosing me to photograph your family!

Please contact me if you would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

Jacksen & Hannah : : Hanford Portrait Photography

2010-07-24T08:27:00.000-07:00

Jacksen is 1½ already!

And big sister Hannah is 4½!

And they're both just as adorable as ever.

Please contact me if you would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

Chris 2011 {Hanford Senior Portrait Photography}

2010-07-15T19:05:00.000-07:00

What a great way to start off my 2011 Senior Portrait sessions! Chris is enjoying the summer before his senior year of high school and it was fun to get to know him a little bit while shooting his Senior Portraits.

Please contact me if you would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

10 Months

2010-07-03T09:14:00.000-07:00

At 10 months old, this is the face I see most often. Hands in the mouth, wide eyes, and a sweet smile. He's a wonderful baby and I adore him.

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

Coastal Flowers

2010-06-30T15:27:00.000-07:00

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or would like to schedule a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

Family of Five {Fresno Family Portrait Photography}

2010-06-23T19:29:00.001-07:00

I met this adorable family in Fresno last week for a family portrait session.

With children ages 2, 4, & 6 - they definitely have their hands full. I'm so glad they took the time to document this moment in their family history with a photo session.

I love this one with Daddy sneaking a peek at his little girl.

Is there a woman in the world that doesn't have a memory of doing this as a little girl?

At the end of the session, we took some photos of just mom and dad. I asked them to pretend to be on a date. And in the middle of kids running wild and screaming, they had a little moment of romance and now they will have some great photos of themselves to look back on and remember this time for them as a couple and for them as a family. Love that!

Please contact me if you are interested in booking a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

All About Family : : Hanford Family Portrait Photography

2010-06-09T11:57:00.000-07:00

Please contact me if you are interested in booking a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

Two of My Favorite Boys : : Santa Rosa Child Photography

2010-05-31T21:33:00.000-07:00

My best friend recently welcomed her second son. The day that I met him, he was soooo sleepy, he never even opened his eyes. Lucky for me, when I went back to photograph him, he managed to be awake for a few moments.

He reminds me very much of my little guy... very relaxed, very sleepy, and lots and lots of stretching to do.

A few more of the sweet snuggles between these new brothers...

So. Stinkin'. Cute.

XOXO!

Please contact me if you are interested in booking a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T21:26:00.000-07:00

We spent Mother's Day at lovely Pismo Beach. It was realllllly windy, but gorgeous.

Speaking of gorgeous, my sweet daughter chose out this orchid for me, too. And her Daddy picked another one. Thank you to them both!

Jay : : Hanford Senior Portrait Photographer

2010-05-05T20:05:00.001-07:00

I always forget how different it is to photograph High School Seniors. It's so much easier than chasing young children around - teenagers happily hold still and follow directions!

Jay is a High School Senior on the verge of graduation. And he was a very good sport at some of the "rustic" spots his mom and I came up with for his portraits!

At nearly 10 inches taller than me, I brought along my trusty step-stool and Jay was kind enough to lug it around for me. :)

Baxter the dog even made an appearance!

Jay - Congratulations and best wishes to you as you start college!

Please contact me if you are interested in booking a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

Ladybug : : Hanford Nature Photography

2010-05-01T12:23:00.000-07:00

This was a great example of how photographs sometimes have a mind of their own. I set out to photograph these beautiful grasses at sunset...

... and quickly got distracted.

... I love ladybugs. But more importantly? My daughter loves ladybugs.

A good distraction, indeed.

Cousins : : Hanford Children's Photography

2010-04-30T22:27:00.000-07:00

Tyler and Kaylee are cousins and I had the pleasure of photographing them last weekend. These first few are my favorites...... we took these photos in their grandparent's back yard - amazing location!

I love this shot of Kaylee! To be honest, I don't remember what brought out this expression, but I love it! Can't you imagine using this for a sweet sixteen party invitation or graduation announcements? "Say what???"

And some cute shots of the cousins together...

Please contact me if you are interested in booking a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

Lilac

2010-04-21T13:39:00.000-07:00

These are a couple of the amazing lilac blooms that are providing a delightful fragrance in my mother-in-law's front yard. Mmmm...

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or if you would like to book a portrait session.

Levi : : Hanford Newborn Photography

2010-04-16T15:22:00.000-07:00

Levi is the newest member of our family! My husband's nephew and his wife welcomed this cutie a few weeks ago and I had the privilege of meeting and photographing him. He seemed pretty happy in his great-grandmother's arms...

Levi was about six weeks old in these photographs. He's already very alert and made lots of fun facial expressions.

Welcome to the world and welcome to the family, Levi!

(I guess I am in a black-and-white mood today - I didn't realize until I started posting these photos that I chose all black-and-white. Funny!)

Please contact me if you are interested in booking a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

Poppies at Sunset : : Hanford Nature Photography

2010-04-15T16:20:00.000-07:00

More flower pictures? I just couldn't help myself - these poppies were calling my name, just begging to be photographed.

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or if you would like to book a portrait session.

Wildflowers : : Hanford Nature Photography

2010-04-11T10:18:00.000-07:00

My husband's family owns a large chunk of property in Mariposa County and we are so lucky to get to visit this time of year. The wildflowers put on quite a show! (And I do love me some up-very-close flower photos!)

This first picture may be my favorite-ever flower picture. This is a lupine flower, shot from above.

Same type of flower, different angle.

Up very close & personal!

This is the vine on a wild cucumber - isn't it amazing? These vines twist and reach for branches and then wrap around and around. It's fascinating and so much fun to photograph!

These last four photos are of some of the little bitty flowers - these are all only about 1/2" tall, at the most.

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or if you would like to book a portrait session.

Emi : : Santa Rosa Newborn Photography

2010-04-02T22:09:00.000-07:00

I have the best job. Seriously! I spent the morning with Emi on her 10th day of life. She is just so remarkably beautiful and I am honored to have met and photographed her.

Does this big brother look familiar? He should... he made an appearance a few weeks ago in his mom's maternity session. He's one of the sweetest little boys I have ever met, and even sweeter now that I have seen him become a big brother.

And, last but not least, one of my favorites from the session. Love the flower, love the little smile. What a cutie pie!

Please contact me if you are interested in booking a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

Mya is (Almost) a Four-Year-Old! : : Hanford Portrait Photography

2010-03-29T16:50:00.000-07:00

You may recognize this cutie from her recent family portraits. Since she and I were both a little distracted during our previous photo shoot, we decided to schedule a mini-session just for her. After all, we know that turning four is a big deal.

Please contact me if you are interested in booking a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

A Military Homecoming : : Lemoore Portrait & Event Photography

2010-03-27T18:29:00.000-07:00

I had the amazing opportunity and honor to photograph a homecoming at Lemoore Naval Air Station this week. The Thomas family has been apart since last July and it was so amazing to be a witness to their reunion.

The children waiting for the planes to arrive...

Someone brought a bubble machine, which was a great entertainment and distraction for children who were wildly eager to see their mothers or fathers who have been gone so long.

This is Ariel - isn't she adorable? She's almost two-years-old and was anxious to see da-da (love the shirt!).

Waiting for those airplanes.......

Here they come!

This was seriously an amazing experience and I would love the opportunity to photograph more homecomings. Thank you to the Thomas family for inviting me to capture this amazing day for you. Welcome home, Jeff - and thank you!

Please contact me if you are interested in booking an event or portrait photography session.

Frego Family : : Hanford Family Photography

2010-03-24T18:55:00.000-07:00

Aren't they cute? They've quickly become good friends of ours and my daughter is head-over-heels in love with this little girl.

We had a blast photographing their family portraits in one of the most beautiful locations on Earth. Lovely day, lovely family!

Please contact me if you are interested in booking a portrait session.

Another Sweet Belly : : Sonoma County Maternity Photography

2010-03-22T17:52:00.000-07:00

Our good friends are expecting their second child this Spring and I couldn't be happier to photograph the sweet belly that's holding my future "nephew."

This is what 22 years of friendship looks like. I'm so thankful I sat by her on the school bus that day!

Please contact me if you are interested in booking a portrait session.

Any Day Now : : Santa Rosa Maternity Photography

2010-03-18T14:36:00.000-07:00

My friend Kelly is anxiously awaiting the arrival of a daughter, due any day now! I was thrilled to get the chance to photograph her amazing belly on a recent visit to Sonoma County. Could she be any more adorable?

This baby has chosen an amazing family to join. Kelly shared with me that this big-brother-to-be keeps talking to the belly and telling his baby sister "it's time to come out!"

I can't wait to meet her and photograph her, too! There's nothing I love more than newborn photography!

Please contact me if you are interested in booking a portrait session.

Half-way Around the Sun : : Hanford Portrait Photography

2010-03-03T14:28:00.000-08:00

I'm a little behind on this blog, but trying to catch up with a few of my recent sessions - starting with my own little guy reaching his six-month milestone.

This is such a fun age - lots of smiles and giggles, but not a lot of mobility just yet... love that!

Look at these eyelashes...........

Mmmm..... I'm a lucky mommy!

Please contact me if you are interested in booking a portrait session.

Snow : : Hanford Nature Photography

2010-02-28T16:20:00.000-08:00

The blooming trees are so amazing this time of year. These white blooms are already starting to fall and creating the illusion of a light dusting of snow on the orchards.

I couldn't resist playing in the "snow."

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or if you are interested in booking a Spring portrait session.

Nancy & Jack : : Santa Rosa Family Photography

2010-02-27T16:02:00.000-08:00

Each time I visit Sonoma County, I am thrilled to re-visit the amazing locations Santa Rosa has to offer. Nancy, Jack, and I had a perfect day and perfect weather for some Santa Rosa photography.

Nancy wanted some mother-son portraits with her 13-year-old son. Looking through these pictures, I am so thrilled that she contacted me - what a great age to capture with photos!

I love this picture. Like this one on fast-forward.

Nancy and Jack - thank you for spending your Saturday afternoon with me!

All it takes...

2010-02-25T06:51:00.000-08:00

It always amazes me how little sunshine it takes for trees and flowers to wake up from Winter hibernation. There are signs........ I think Spring is right around the corner!

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or if you are interested in booking a Spring portrait session.

What do you do with your photos?

2010-02-24T10:24:00.000-08:00

I think I’ve said it before, photos are my memories. They are my way of keeping records, my souvenirs from vacations, and my gift to myself on birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. Looking back through our photo albums floods me with recollections of both the special and the ordinary moments of our life. The way I felt at the time, the conversations we had, the smells, the music, the food - all of that is somehow frozen within a photograph.

Once of my commitments as a professional photographer is to encourage my clients to share their photos freely. Many photographers shoot photos and then include only a handful of images to clients to keep - unless, of course, they want to pay an arm and a leg to buy all of the digital images. As a photographer, as a mother, and as someone who loves photos, I am not a fan of this way of business. My session fee always includes a CD of the finished images for personal use. No additional fees to me, no strings attached. The truth is, I personally wouldn’t go to a photographer that doesn’t allow me to keep my digital negatives. The way I see it, these are my memories and I believe they are mine to keep. My photo business is built on this idea.

Do you have a blog or a web page? Share on Facebook? Frame every favorite? Are you a scrapbooker or do you prefer traditional albums? Do you simply save your photos and plan to sort them out once your children are grown and you have more time to reflect on the moments & memories?

Honestly, I do a little bit of all of the above. I save almost every photo I take. I have a family blog where I share most of the details of our day-to-day adventures. From there, I place my favorites in a very simple scrapbook. And the best also get shared on Facebook.

How about you? Where do your photos end up?

Daffodils @ Sunset

2010-02-22T14:47:00.000-08:00

These daffodils are in my neighbors front yard and I've been admiring them for a few days now. Monday evening as the sun was setting, I could no longer resist. I ran across the street in my slippers to capture the color.

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print of these or any of my other images.

Four

2010-02-03T19:31:00.000-08:00

My girl is turning 4 next week.

Four years of motherhood.

Four years of kisses.

Four years of joy.

Four years of being daddy's girl (these were daddy's boots).

Four years of photos!

XOXO to my sweet birthday girl and all you have brought to my world.

Five Months

2010-02-02T19:17:00.000-08:00

I can't believe how lucky I am - I get to kiss this face everyday!

And hold these hands, too. This picture was a happy accident and I love it. This may be one of my favorite "self-portraits" of all time!

One & Four

2010-01-13T14:24:00.000-08:00

These siblings both celebrate January birthdays and this year's milestones are big - one year and four years!

After the official photos were complete, Jacksen's mommy asked if we could capture his first cupcake. We were both pretty surprised and the small mess he made. Maybe he'll get more ambitious on his actual birthday next week.

How old are you, Jacksen?

Seriously... this is my idea of how to eat a cupcake!

Happy Birthdays!

Mine

2010-01-12T12:49:00.000-08:00

Inspired by some bright colors and a cute kid, we did a mini portrait session of my little girl.

Oh how I love that smile...

... and this sweet girl.

90

2010-01-09T18:15:00.000-08:00

When this family contacted me about photographing a 90th birthday party, I was thrilled. What an incredible birthday. And when I met the birthday girl, I just couldn't believe my eyes! Doesn't she look amazing?

We took a lot of group photos - but my favorites have to be the photos she took with her great grandchildren. I love that her joy and pride show so very clearly in these photos.

We also took time to grab some individual shots of the little ones at the party. This one, in particular, really warmed my heart. He was quite shy and didn't really want to be in front of my camera. So I put on my sneaky mode and I'm so glad I did - I love this image!

Another photo on the wish list? The entire group of friends and family who had come together to celebrate this momentous 90th birthday! I was a little nervous with this many people looking at me, but I love that the birthday girl is surrounded all of her loved ones.

After the big group photos, I also offered to take portraits of the individual families as well.

It was a lovely day and I appreciated being a part of it.

Please contact me if you are interested in scheduling a portrait session or would like to have an event photographer at your next gathering.

Orchids

2010-01-08T14:44:00.000-08:00

I am finding myself very inspired by nature this week... Today's muse is this beautiful, flawless white orchid. There's something very powerful about orchids. They look so incredible, it's hard to believe they are real and not someone's painting.

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print of these or any of my other images. I think these may end up on canvas in my home...

Dibble Dibble Dopp

2010-01-05T10:51:00.000-08:00

I had some fun playing with my new macro lens this week. Between the wild colors of the leaves and the reflections in the water drops, I so love these pictures.

I love Winter.

T'was the Season!

2009-12-29T21:14:00.000-08:00

I hope you've all enjoyed wonderful holidays with your loved ones. I want to take a moment to thank all of my 2009 clients - it's really been a privilege to get to know you all and to play a part in capturing your family history, whatever stage it may be in.

I also want to acknowledge that I have fallen off the blogging wagon here - I apologize for getting so behind. New baby + the holidays has made for a busy couple of months and the blogging definitely took a hit. And look at that, we've reached the end of 2009! I've gone back and blogged just a few of my end-of-the-year photo sessions so you can see what I've been up to! Scroll down to see some familiar faces!

I have some exciting things planned for 2010 and some great projects in the works. Please check back in soon for updates (and I'll work on not neglecting the blog so there are actually things to see here!).

The Perfect Storm

2009-12-12T21:49:00.000-08:00

This photo session was a challenge, to say the least. I was visiting from out of town and had a very limited amount of time. And the weather did not cooperate - I think Santa Rosa received well over an inch of rain that day! To make the challenge even more complicated, sweet Kayden just turned two years old and has a (hopefully temporary) fear of women! A recipe for disaster, but with a lot of patience and a willingness to get a little damp, we got some great photos and a memory of a day that puts a smile on my face.

I borrowed every umbrella we could find. Being a two-year-old, Kayden actually wanted all four umbrellas for himself and showed quite a bit of frustration when he couldn't manage to hold them ALL at once. Two-year-olds are funny that way, aren't they?

We were so lucky that the rain let up a bit and allowed Kayden a little more freedom to explore. His mood definitely improved once he was able to be out and about and watch us try to keep up.

Last but not least, look who seemed to warm up to me, at least a little bit!

I remembered our session in July that Kayden is quick. This time, I knew I had an advantage of not being enormously pregnant. However, I had forgotten how hard it is for kids this age to have so many opinions and needs, but be unable to communicate them. I could just see in his eyes how frustrated he was when we just didn't get it, whatever "it" was at that moment.

Crystal and Nick - I think you guys are doing an amazing job with him. It's a tough age, but I am so so so glad that I get to help you capture these moments (challenging or not!). He is so adorable and I can't wait to see him again soon!

Five

2009-12-09T21:46:00.000-08:00

What a sweet group of brothers in this family! I was truly blown away at how kind and affectionate they were with each other. As a mommy with a new son, I loved watching these young men and imagining my life in a few years.

Three Months & Three Days

2009-12-05T22:16:00.001-08:00

My little man at three months + three days. He makes my heart happy.

Location Location Location

2009-11-29T21:32:00.000-08:00

Words can't express how much I love it when a client chooses a location that is significant to their family. And what could be more significant than the front yard at home?

This sweet girl was a firecracker! So friendly and so adorable. When I jingled my car keys to capture her attention (and hope she'd hold still for a moment!), she grabbed my keys and made a bee line for my car. At just over a year old, I think she was planning to go for a drive!

Jacksen is Nine Months

2009-11-11T22:15:00.000-08:00

With boys, the wardrobe and prop options honestly aren't as much fun. Girls get flowers and bows, dresses and tulle. But there's something about a little blue-eyed boy in just his jeans that makes my heart skip a beat. Here's Jacksen's 9-month portraits (you probably recognize him from his newborn and 6 month shots, too!).

Fall Colors

2009-11-11T22:08:00.000-08:00

I am so in love with the beautiful autumn colors in these family photos. And it doesn't hurt that they are wonderful friends of our family, either!

: : Family : :

2009-10-18T16:28:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year - time for lovely Autumn weather and family portraits in the park!

You may recognize this family from the Kaylee's newborn portraits back in April. She's grown up a bit and it was so wonderful to see her and her parents again.

I love this profile shot that shows her sweet "baby hair" standing straight up. Love that and I have a feeling that next time I see Kaylee, it may be long gone.

What day would be complete without a tutu and a big pink bow?

Just a reminder... if you are interested in portraits for Holiday gifts and cards, please contact me right away. I only have a few 2009 appointments left!

Have I Mentioned How In Love I Am?

2009-09-17T13:14:00.000-07:00

(12 Days Old)

Baby Boy

2009-09-11T16:19:00.001-07:00

Please join us in welcoming our new son - Matthew. He arrived on September 2nd and we are so in love.

Floral

2009-08-12T08:37:00.000-07:00

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or if you'd like to book a portrait session in Kings County or Sonoma County.

Personal: 8 Months Pregnant

2009-08-06T13:28:00.000-07:00

My husband took this photo for me... I realized that I've never made an official announcement to my photo clients - we're having a second child! I'm due with a baby boy next month and currently enjoying my last few weeks of calm before we enter the world of two children.

I will not be booking any August or September photo sessions, but will likely pick back up in October and November for any holiday photos you'd like to have done. However, as we will be adjusting to life with a newborn, my schedule will likely be very full. If you'd like to get an appointment on the books, please contact me right away.

I'll share portraits of our new little guy as soon as I can... I am so excited about having a new face to photograph!

Six Months

2009-08-05T16:50:00.000-07:00

Just a quick preview of this sweet guy's six-month portraits. Check out those baby blues!

Boudoir Photos

2009-08-01T09:13:00.000-07:00

We did this session a few weeks ago and I am so thrilled that this beautiful mom is comfortable with me sharing my favorite image from her boudoir session.

This particular photo shoot was very special - her husband is overseas with the Navy and won't be back for several months. I have a feeling that once she sends him some previews of what she's been up to, he may be just a little more eager to get home safely. ;)

Kayden

2009-07-04T19:54:00.000-07:00

Kayden belongs to my "favorite clients," as I always describe them. (I photographed their engagement, wedding, maternity, newborn, and all the other photos in between - I feel like we've grown up together).

I love his expression standing by the fence. And don't let that sweet face fool you - he didn't hold still for long. Given that I am 7 months pregnant, it was definitely a challenge to keep up!

Who me?

Yeah... sometimes I feel that way, too...

This is one of my favorite pictures. Ever. Love that expression!

One thing that can slow him down? A snail! (I don't think his mommy was such a fan?)

As a reward at the end of the session, Kayden got to show off his bubble-blowing skills. LOVE the concentration on that bubble.

Showing me how it's done...

As always, it was wonderful to see you! Your CD with all of the finished images is in the mail!

Tayna & Anthony: Parents-to-Be

2009-07-04T15:27:00.000-07:00

Tanya & Anthony are expecting their first child in September - one day before my own little boy is due. What a fun way to start a maternity session ~ definitely plenty to talk about! And a soon-to-be-adorable family, too!

Congratulations, you two! I can't wait to hear how everything goes and what name you decide!

Santa Cruz

2009-06-30T08:34:00.000-07:00

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or if you'd like to book a portrait session in Kings County or Sonoma County.

Raindrops on Roses

2009-04-30T08:38:00.000-07:00

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or if you'd like to book a portrait session in Kings County or Sonoma County.

Engaged!

2009-04-26T19:31:00.000-07:00

When one of our oldest friends decided to propose to his girlfriend, I could not have been more excited. And when I was asked to take their Engagement Portraits, I was honored to capture this step in their history! Congratulations, you two, I cannot wait for your wedding! XOXO!

Kaylee : : Newborn

2009-04-26T18:32:00.000-07:00

One of the best things about my job is being the lucky person who gets to document the first days of a child's life. As a mom, I know how quickly that "newborn" phase passes and how incredibly important it is to capture those moments in time. Sunday, I got the opportunity to spend an hour with Kaylee, a very beautiful one month old.

For being pretty new to this world, Kaylee already knows how to make lots of fun expressions. Which is also a pretty great part of my job...

Is that a smiling newborn?

And she posed nude in my chair and didn't even make a mess. Whew!

She even took a little snooze... so sweet!

Thank you to Roosha for the referral!

Pink Orchid

2009-04-11T19:18:00.000-07:00

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or booking a portrait photography session in Kings County or Sonoma County!

Weather

2009-03-12T08:32:00.000-07:00

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or if you'd like to book a portrait session in Kings County or Sonoma County.

Brooke: Maternity

2009-03-06T17:15:00.000-08:00

Brooke and Troy are so excited to be expecting a baby girl, and that excitement definitely spilled over in their portrait session.

A new daddy's hands, already in love with his baby girl...

Last but not least, my absolute favorite from this session. Gorgeousness!

Five Days

2009-02-03T15:07:00.000-08:00

I met Jacksen on Tuesday - his 5th day of life. Tell me, do I have the best job?

Jacksen's daddy is a big baseball fan and I love how these shots of baby-in-a-glove turned out. Oh my goodness!

There's nothing better than capturing both a mommy's love and the teeny tiny hands and feet that are just irresistible.

Here's mom, Jen, who specifically requested this shot - she has the same picture with her older child, Hannah.

Big Sister + Little Brother = Love

And... last but not least, yes, this is one of my quilts. : ) I just couldn't resist.

Wilding Family

2009-01-10T18:15:00.000-08:00

Within minutes of meeting them, I was in love with these incredibly well behaved boys and their adorable brand-new little sister.

What's not to love?

Thank you, Amy, for the referral!

A New Friend

2008-12-28T21:57:00.000-08:00

My family and I went to the snow today and while I have about 1,000 pictures of my little one playing in the winter wonderland, this guy is the one who stole the show.

... he seemed much less interested in me.

I love love love love love the snow.

Merry Christmas to Me...

2008-12-24T12:05:00.000-08:00

She is my favorite and my least favorite thing to photograph. We take her portraits each year in her Christmas dress. And each year, I foolishly think it will be a little easier this time because she's a little older. This year, she's almost three and while I love the pictures, they were certainly not easy to get. Photographing other people's children is so so so much easier! Even so, she's still the best gift of my life and thinking about how much I love her brings tears to my eyes.

I love this one... it's so her to be giving the lights a kiss...

Outtakes...

Merry Christmas from our home to yours!

Wagon

2008-12-13T15:00:00.000-08:00

Two adorable blonds and a red wagon... not much can top that on a lovely Saturday afternoon.

F-a-v-o-r-i-t-e...

Adi sure had a love for this branch her momma found for her...

(Still got that branch)

Last but not least....... how I know a portrait session has come to an end. :)

Three Generations

2008-12-11T18:21:00.000-08:00

I do love photos of families, especially this time of year.

Just plain cute and such a sweet little girl...

Happy Holidays!

At Home

2008-12-08T16:59:00.000-08:00

The mommy of these cuties wanted a quick portrait session at home. What could be better for a Christmas card?

Puppies!

2008-12-08T14:57:00.000-08:00

Linda and Jerry wanted their family portraits to include their puppies and as soon as I saw them, I completely understood why! These puppies are too adorable!

I &hearts E3

2008-12-02T15:07:00.000-08:00

My favorite baby. And with those big brown eyes, I think he may have that effect on a lot of women.

A see a Christmas card in this photo's future...

He wasn't very pleased to learn he's not allowed to eat the Christmas lights.

For fun, click here to check out how much he's grown in six months!

Medeiros Portraits

2008-11-30T14:28:00.000-08:00

Could these newlyweds be any more photogenic? Even their DOG takes great pictures. After soooo many toddler portraits in the last few weeks, this photo session felt like a piece of cake. The only difficulty (for me and for them, I think), will be choosing a favorite.

I love this photo - behind them is the spot where they got married, just almost a year ago!

Elizondo Family

2008-11-29T16:25:00.000-08:00

I am loving the wardrobe colors with the fall foliage in these pictures! What a fun family to photograph during the long Thanksgiving weekend...

Thanksgiving

2008-11-29T14:21:00.000-08:00

There's nothing better than family at Thanksgiving, and this wonderful group invited me to come over the weekend after and photography all the babies together. They are just an adorable (although serious!) third generation.

Look at all the grandbabies!

Sweet Little Girls

2008-11-15T22:19:00.000-08:00

Take two adorable sisters...

Add in their cute cousin...

And you get some fabulous portraits for the grandparents!

I have to say, I'm not sure there is anything sweeter than little girls and black and white photography.

Portrait Previews

2008-11-15T16:40:00.000-08:00

"D" Family Portraits [Preview]

2008-11-08T18:22:00.000-08:00

This family is a regular around Bissig Photography - but I still wasn't prepared for how much this little guy has grown since our last visit! We did both family portraits and one-year portraits at the park and it started out a little "challenging." This guy makes you work for a smile!

Gotcha! Love the brand new teeth showing!

Who needs a time out?

The end!

It was great to see you guys! Your CD will be mailed this week - I can't wait to see which one you use for your Christmas cards this year!

"S" Family Portraits [Preview]

2008-11-02T18:19:00.000-08:00

"M" Family Portraits

2008-11-01T18:17:00.000-07:00

Karlie: Senior Portrait Preview

2008-10-18T16:51:00.000-07:00

Meet Karlie - a 2009 graduate-to-be!

I just couldn't help it ~ her shoes were begging me to "color" them.

Congratulations, Karlie! The CD will be in the mail shortly. Have a great senior year!

Wine Country

2008-10-12T08:29:00.000-07:00

A few scenic shots from where I grew up......

Wine Country in Autumn:

Grapes:

Wine Country in Spring:

Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a print or if you are interested in booking a portrait session in Kings County or Sonoma County.