jennifer brotchie photography: the blog

Guess What?

2010-02-06T20:36:00.000-08:00

I have a new blog home. This page is officially retired.
Please bookmark me at www.jenniferbrotchieblog.com

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: Lorelle + Carl

2010-02-04T10:34:00.000-08:00

Carl and Lorelle have been friends of ours since my family has lived in Roseville. Carl and my husband were actually co-workers. As things happen, jobs take us to different places in our life journeys and thankfully we have all stayed in touch.

The have 3 beautiful children already... this one being the youngest for a few more days and will be the only girl, she is such a little joy...

This one will be a big brother again and I am told is quite the video gamer...he's got skillz...

Carl and Lorelle are welcoming their 4th child into the world (they have a son in college) and are fulfilling their desires for a big happy family. They have a lot of love to give and this baby will be showered with it so deeply.

I am in love with Lorelle's smile when she laughs...

I was honored and thrilled to be asked to photograph this time in Lorelle's pregnancy. She's due in a handful of days and David and I wish you both nothing but restful nights, happy siblings, a smooth schedule, a clean house and lots of loves, hugs and kisses, of course!

~lots o 'love,
~jenn & dave

to see more of Lorelle + Carl (please give it a few seconds to load):

to view again, hit refresh on your screen...

Thanks for stopping by!
xo,
~j

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{Roseville, Sacramento Wedding Photographer}: The Beauty in Things...

2010-02-03T06:04:00.000-08:00

There is beauty in all things...
sometimes, it's not obvious...

but if you look hard enough, it might find You instead.

have a glorious Wednesday!

xo,
~j

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Images from this Weekend {Roseville, Sacramento Family Photographer}

2010-02-01T09:56:00.000-08:00

Decompressing with bite size cupcakes at Whole Foods. I just needed one of those Calgon moments. So these helped BIG TIME!!

These were just calling out to me. I love when things just call out to me.

Master Shifu... "But you cannot leave! A real warrior never quits!" I AM A WARRIOR!

Veggie Bowl at one of my fav places...

and this beautiful belly, due in 9 days!!

Life is good... sometimes I have to stop and smell the roses and just realize. Awww...yes...good.

xo,
~j

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Tease {Roseville, Sacramento Children Photographer}

2010-01-29T09:48:00.000-08:00

Spring was teasing yesterday. The sun and blue skies came around for a little while and it lifted me. I'll take it, the bits and pieces, I'll take it.

xo,
~j

jennifer brotchie photography, wedding photographer in roseville, wedding photographer in sacramento, children's photographer in roseville, children's photographer in sacramento, family photographer, senior portraits, baby photographer, newborn photographer, professional photographer, http://www.jenniferbrotchie.com/

Kristin + Marc {Roseville Wedding Photographer, Sacramento Wedding Photographer}

2010-01-27T07:12:00.000-08:00

They went out with a group of friends. She with her group and he with his. Kristin took a date. It was all fun, just hanging out with good company for a fun night out. Kristin caught Marc's eye. Marc saw her with her date and asked her out anyway. She said yes. Since then, they've only had eyes for each other.

It's been two years since and they are madly in love. They will be making their love official this June.

I had a great time with these two... they laugh together and totally have fun together..

They are totally sweet individually, but together, well they are eye candy goodness and I'm getting a cavity just looking at them!

Congratulations Kristin + Marc. I won't be photographing your wedding, but I'm honored to be a small part of documenting your everlasting love through your engagment photos.

All the best to the both of you... from, me.

To see more of Kristin + Marc press play (give it a few seconds to load)

Refresh your screen to replay.

I am booking weddings and all family and children's photosessions for 2010. Hope to hear from you soon!
Thanks for visiting!
Happy Wednesday!

xo,
~j

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Random Monday {Family Photographer in Roseville and Sacramento}

2010-01-25T09:19:00.000-08:00

Monday already. (sigh) Just some random photos I plucked out for today's post... I'm getting really cagey and am feeling a bit blue.

I think this is a favorite photo of myself.

If this one doesn't put a smile on your face, then seriously, I don't know what will...

...and one last random one of my little man...

Happy Random Monday! Thanks for stopping by!

xo,
~j

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Loveliness...{Roseville Wedding, Sacramento Wedding Photographer}

2010-01-22T10:10:00.000-08:00

Locked away in my cave, still working on this gorgeous couple.... have a great weekend!

xo,
~j

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Dear Spring... {Children's Photographer in Roseville, Children's Photographer in Sacramento}

2010-01-21T09:27:00.000-08:00

Dear Spring... I've missed you lately. I know the rain is badly needed, but does it have to come with cold and wind? When you are around the bloom of your flowers fill the earth with your wonderful vivid soothing colors...
When you are around, the grass is soft and lusciously green... I hear the sound of laughter and games as my kids run through, the little palms of their hands gently touching the tips of your beautiful wild grass...

When you are here, there is a magical hour...just before sunset your sun casts its magical glow where everything in its path illuminates and glistens...

The air is warm and the breeze is gentle. I know you are just around the corner and I have to be patient but I want you to know that I really miss you and I won't take you for granted.

xo,
~j

Spring is around the corner, have you booked your session yet?

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Faux Tilt Shift Fun {Children's and Family Photographer in Sacramento and Roseville}

2010-01-20T06:46:00.000-08:00

Doesn't that look fun? My three kids look like miniature kids in a landscape model. David found this great tutorial where you could convert your photos into a faux tilt shift lens effect. It's not as good as having the real lens, but it's fun to play around with.

This one turned out great..the columns look like you can just reach in and adjust them a little to the left or a little to the right or grab the tiny people and move them around too, lol!

Do you have a photoshop tutorial that you would love to share? I'd love to know...please leave it in the comments section, thanks!

Happy Wednesday and always so thankful for your visit!

xo,
~j

jennifer brotchie photography, wedding photography in roseville, wedding photography in sacramento, wedding photography in yuba city, wedding photographers in stockton, wedding photography, engagement photograper, children's photographer, family photographer, senior portraits, baby photographer, newborn photographer, professional photography, http://www.jenniferbrotchie.com/

Two Bits of Sunshine {Engagement & Wedding Photographer in Roseville and Sacramento}

2010-01-18T09:01:00.000-08:00

On our one day break from the rain this weekend, I spent a couple of hours with these two beautiful people.... this is a sneak peek, just for them...

They kinda fit together like a hand in glove....

These two are a bit of sunshine on a dreary Monday...
Be sure to keep checking back for their full post soon and thanks for stopping by, really makes my day!
Also, I am currently booking weddings for 2010, so please be sure to get in touch!

xo,
~j

jennifer brotchie photography, wedding photographers in roseville, wedding photographers in sacramento, wedding photographers in yuba city, wedding photographers in stockton, wedding photography, engagement photography, children's photography, family photography, senior portraits, baby photographer, newborn photographer, professional photography, http://www.jenniferbrotchie.com/

{Roseville, Sacramento Wedding Photographer}: SoCal Holiday...

2010-01-14T08:48:00.000-08:00

One thing we did when we were spending holidays in SoCal was to get some family portraits done. David and I were late coming back from 29 Palms and the sun was already setting behind the tall mountains at 4pm. We had very limited sun, so we had to work fast.

The kids snapped into place...

and Nana and Grandpa followed accordingly...

We didn't have to go far for a location. Grandpa has always had a knack for finding homes with beautiful views in their backyard...

Nana and the girls...

A nice dinner out at the outdoor terrace...in winter!

and one last evening swim before we had to head home...

David practically stood out dodging the sprinklers for this one...

We miss the beautiful weather that we were spoiled with. Thank you Nana and Grandpa for having us!

xo,
~j

{Roseville, Sacramento Photographer}: Glee Wednesday

2010-01-13T08:56:00.000-08:00

Wednesday nights have been Glee nights on Fox. Have you seen Glee? It's a fantastic, entertaining show about outcast glee kids trying to make it into nationals and all the hurdles they face in high school trying to get there. It's well written, the characters are loveable and spiteful and the music is wonderful. It's on hiatus for awhile now that American Idol is back on. I love American Idol as well, sat for two hours last night and watched. But today is dedicated to Glee. Happy Glee Wednesday!

{Roseville, Sacramento Photographer}: Houston...We have a problem...

2010-01-12T09:53:00.000-08:00

... and what a problem to have, huh? I ordered two boots. I originally just wanted the one on the left, from Zappos. But, as with my luck on shoes, they didn't have any in stock in my size. So I went searching for it and found a suitable one from Sheplers, the one on the right. Two days later after placing my order at Sheplers, Zappos emails me and tells me that the boot is back in stock. So I ordered it and figured I'd check them both out and make my decision when they arrived. I love them both, but I could only keep one. It's a Christmas present to myself. I love boots. I live in them in the winter. This is my first cowgirl boot purchase. I think these are REAL cowgirl boots and they are both soo beautiful. I plan to wear them in the spring and summer with some cute sundresses. David likes the one on the left. The embroidery is gorgeous on it. The calf part is more tailored to my calf and more fitted and it's got a pointier toe. The one on the right has a little more room in the calf area which lends to the casualness of it and the design is stitched in a light blue thread and has a more rounded toe. I don't think I could go wrong with either. I'm kind of partial to the one of the left. If you are visiting my blog today, let me know which one You like in the comments section...
thanks!

EDITED: Thanks to all the Facebook comments and blog comments... I chose the pair on the left, my original choice! :)
xo,
~j

{Roseville, Sacramento Wedding Photographer}: 9 years ago today....

2010-01-10T07:55:00.000-08:00

She was supposed to be born in February, around Valentine's Day. She didn't want to wait and decided to come 6 weeks earlier, nine years ago today. She was my preemie baby, my first baby and she is my heart walking outside of me. I think she is brilliant...and that's because she really is... Happy Birthday Sweetheart!

give it a few seconds to load...

please refresh your screen to replay.

xo,
~mom

{Roseville, Sacramento Wedding Photographer}: Harmony Motel & Joshua Tree

2010-01-08T07:34:00.000-08:00

We ventured out into the city of 29 Palms where the Joshua Tree National Park is located. Specifically to find this sign and to take a picture of it, with us in it of course, just like them, U2.

The problem was that we were in the right place, but that exact sign was gone. A nice man drove by and told us that a couple of owners back, the sign was sold for a pretty sum and it has since been replaced. No matter, David and Jennifer Brotchie were still standing in the same area that Bono, the Edge, Larry and Adam stood when they took that photo, when they were inspired to write the masterpiece that is The Joshua Tree Album. Oh yes, we are cool.

We were rock stars for a couple of hours. We were feelin' it.

Although, I kept giggling. I am not at all comfortable in front of the camera, I'm a nerd. So I'd dial in the settings in the camera, click the timer, pose, wait a few seconds and I'd start laughin' like the nerd that I am.

You know, it's kind of hard to pose yourself without someone telling you how you should pose. That's usually my job: to tell YOU what to do when I'm behind the camera, no matter, I just don't like being told what to do, so I don't think it would have made an ounce of difference what I did.

But I do like how these turned out. I love couples photography. I love engagement photography. I love wedding photography. It's so different to have two people totally engaged and within each other's hemisphere's without any distraction..in our case distraction from our offspring. Thanks Nana and Grampa for letting us go be a couple for a little bit.

So yeah, you need a photographer, holla! 'cuz I can hook you up... big time!

Gosh, I miss that weather... but I did enjoy being on an afternoon date with my guy. Thanks for dragging me out there, babe.

Enjoy the weekend!
xo,
~j

{Roseville, Sacramento Wedding Photographer}: The Dead of Winter... in the Desert....

2010-01-06T07:42:00.000-08:00

This was pretty much the end of our 2009 going into 2010. In the California desert, in the middle of winter, beautiful blue skies and temperatures into the 70's. Can you imagine swimming in this gorgeous weather the whole time? That's what my kids did...
they were fish...

they were happy...

If they weren't in the water, they were on the golf course...

getting tips from grandpa...

and grabbing the club...

and giving it a go...

all the while I'd make David go and pose for me...

... and the sky was really that gorgeous as the sun was setting...

...when we wanted a break, we were here, with our feet up...

Happy first Wednesday of Twenty Ten!
xo,
~j

{Roseville, Sacramento Photographer}: Back to Monday.

2010-01-04T08:33:00.000-08:00

How is your 2010 going so far? I'm back from a little getaway to Disneyland and Palm Desert. Back to my weekly duties. Lots of fun images to post soon. Thanks for checking in! Lots of stuff to get to...
xo,
~j

{Roseville, Sacramento Photographer}: The City By the Bay...

2010-01-01T12:19:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! Wow, 2010...as I write, I am recovering from New Year's Eve in Disneyland. It was packed last night, an hour long wait for each ride, I'm glad we went! But, I have met my people quota for awhile. Thank goodness everyone was in a festive spirit. How was yours? I hope it was fun and safe and you aren't recovering too bad...

Here's more of our day trip to San Francisco...
After our sushi boat dinner, we were daring enough to go drive down Lombard Street. The crooked-est street in the world. Living so close to the city a decade ago, David and I have been here many, many, many times. I think the kids enjoyed the acceleration up and down the streets more though...

I think they thought they were on a roller coaster ride...

Always a line up...

Who hasn't done this before? Dork.

Our cabbie...

I jumped out of the car to take a few of these shots... for as many times as I've been here, I don't think I've ever taken photos here...except now...

That's our mini-van!

Wishing you a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year! Woohoo 2010!
xo,
~j

{Roseville, Sacramento Wedding Photographer}: J-Town, S.F.

2009-12-30T09:20:00.000-08:00

We found ourselves in Japan-town, S.F., Sunday afternoon. We don't venture much into the city by the bay, because it's THE BIG CITY. With 3 under 9 years of age, it can be somewhat difficult finding restrooms and timing has to be just right. We decided to let the dice roll and gamble our luck. We had a fun afternoon. Japan-town is a must stop for us to eat. We are sushi lovin' people and thank goodness, our kids are becoming lovers' as well...

This place always has a crowd in front and it really kinda is a hole in the wall... it's soo tiny and always a wait for the sushi boats...

David and I used to come here before we were married, so it's kind of a gas to realize we are bringing our kids here now...

One of those, "who would've ever thunk it" kind of things...

If you are ever in J-town, stop by Isobune for lunch or dinner, it's for sushi boat lovers only~ obviously.

It is nice to have a bit of a break to photograph my family. It's the old adage about the shoemaker never having enough time to make shoes for his kids...so I'm so honestly glad that I am able to carve out time to practice my skillz on them. We would have stayed outside longer, but it was pretty cold.

Japan-town is a great place to roam around and explore. Of course, this kid and her new Itouch, when school starts, there are going to be limits to this gadget! She was busy dressing the fantasy fairies on her Itouch.

This one was full of energy. The sushi boat place gave each kid a sucker in the shape of sushi! So he was happy savoring it.

Only two sleeps left in 2009...make them count! Have a safe and wonderful New Year's celebration! I'll be in Disneyland!!!!
xo,
~j

{Roseville, Sacramento Children's Photographer}: Mandy + Bryce

2009-12-29T08:23:00.000-08:00

Right before Christmas I snuck in this photosession with these two. We only had an hour in the morning and not so lucky for us, it was a cold morning. But it was for a good cause and they braved the brisk morning air.

Their mama coaxed and coaxed to get them to take off their coats, but it was a no go. But this little one looks just as sweet nonetheless...

Big brother here... gorgeous sparkling eyes... one of my favorite "tween" kids that I personally know... such a good kid.

One of many favorite images from the session...

The last shot and we figured we'd open the tailgate and have them get close and take their jackets off and they did, and it came out just so perfect!

To see more of these two click here (please give it a few seconds to load):

Thanks for visiting! So glad you found me!
Happy last Tuesday of 2009!
xo,
~j

{Roseville, Sacramento Wedding Photographer}: Christmas Stuff....

2009-12-28T09:35:00.000-08:00

So Christmas Eve started off pretty good...most everything was done, just some last minute cleaning and tidying to be finished and waiting for grandma to come over so that David and I could have one last date night for the year. To pass some time, the kids made Oatmeal Chocolate Chip cookies for Santa...

We went to midnight mass and Marlena came with. She konked out half way through. But on the way home at 15 passed midnight Christmas morning, the moon was shining behind some clouds just perfectly. To a child's eyes, it really looked like Santa's Sleigh glowing in the sky, and to Marlena, it REALLY WAS SANTA! We hurried home so she could get into bed for Santa to come. It was really so sweet. So all you kids out there that don't believe, mine still does, so don't spoil it please. Anyway, she woke up to find that Santa left her an Ipod Touch. She was outstanding this past year.... that's her realizing what it is that Santa left her...

Isabella and Jensen were equally outstanding and got these...

Jensen was so glad to see the Buzz Lightyear hat and gloves. He thought we forgot them at the store, so he was very happy that Santa found them.

They also got this cool "play anywhere ping-pong" set...

When all the morning festivities settled down, I got busy chef-ing...

not the most flattering photo of me, but, it is what it is...

This little cutie came over, she is my cousin, technically, my children's aunt, even though she is younger than my two oldest... again, it is what it is, she loves to see Bella... we broke out the Nerf'ers....

and all the kids had a shoot out with my cousin Thomas who came over with his wife from Fresno...he's a big kid too... I can't figure out how they got the nerf bullets bullseyed on his glasses...

Dinner was great... I had been cooking all day though, so everyone was happy with appetizers... dinner was a roast, with veggies and potatoes and wine... David and I were blissed out with great, great red wine...

My uncle in the middle, happy with food...

My dad was enjoying the conversation at dinner. When I drink wine, I tend to be a happy, talkative, talker. Talk, talk, talk. I was brave enough to spill some early girlfriend/boyfriend stories that really should have been kept locked away... dad was cool, he kept stoic...

Saturday morning, the kids enjoyed their new prezzies...

and for once, David and I could hold a 20 minute long conversation....

thanks for reading and letting me share.... leave your blog addy so I can read about your Christmas!
xo,
~j

{Roseville, Sacramento Wedding Photographer}: Glimpses of the Eve of Christmas Eve...

2009-12-24T08:04:00.000-08:00

Dearest Blogland ... I really just can't stay away when I thought I could. My beloved camera was minding it's own business, knowing full well how busy I have been. But it caught a glow of the reflective light and smiled at me, and it had me in it's grips again. So I thought I would share with you my evening from last night.

David has been working like a mad man at work, trying to get projects at a tidy stopping point before taking a bit of a break. So he does a little more work and then hunkers down for some casual surfing...

These two, all giggles and horseplaying... they just won't stop... every now and then, someone gets too rough and then "everything is fun until someone gets hurt", says their mamma. Yes, that's a lotto ticket she's holding, a girl can dream... you can't win, if you don't play...

M's list of the reindeer...she's a planner like her mamma. She's hatching up a plan of how we will disperse the reindeer food on Christmas Eve.... she's got to make sure she's accounted for all the reindeer... heaven forbid we miss one... of course we double checked and googled the whole crew...

A snapshot of M's homemade ornament... that kid is crafty...

Pretty, pretty ornaments... my color scheme has always been red and gold, or should I say crimson and autumnal yellows....

and a little down time for me...

merry christmas eve!
xo,
~j

{Roseville, Sacramento Wedding Photographer}: Merry Christmas!

2009-12-22T08:18:00.000-08:00

I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas... I'll be back to blogging right after to share our day..... until then... may the Spirit of Him, lift you up and give you blessings this holiday season...
xo,
~j

{Roseville, Sacramento Wedding Photographer}: Captain's Log Stardate 12.18.2009

2009-12-21T09:07:00.000-08:00

Date night last Friday evening... we went to Il Fornaio. David and I haven't been there in a very long time, so it was a wonderful treat. The ambience was perfect and we needed the time to re-connect. Re-charged and re-connected, although I've caught myself a cold. I didn't mean to catch it, somehow though, it caught up to me. Like the dastardly fly that gets caught inside your car and you're desparately trying to shoo it out, finally, FINALLY it makes its way out, but without annoying the heck out of you first. That's how I feel about this cold. ANNOYED.
But I digress... thank you, thank you for a wonderful dinner babe. It was all very delicious!

xo,
~j

{Roseville,Sacramento Engagement Photographer}: Us, Part II

2009-12-17T07:22:00.000-08:00

These are the rest of the images from my family photoshoot. David and I decided to take advantage of the tri-pod and get images of just the two of us together while the kids explored. This is just something we never do because I'm usually the one holding the camera or he's the one holding the camera, so this was a treat.

It's kind of the same images of us standing and our upper bodies doing different things, but I love them anyway. These will be so special to me because of their rarity.

If you own a tripod or if you are able to put your camera on something stable with a flat surface, learn how to use the self timer setting...

it's better than nothing...and the shots you get might surprise you...

and for heaven's sake, get out of the house, away from the sofa to do it. Find a beautiful location and have some fun! I'm so glad we did.

xo,
~j

{Roseville, Sacramento Photographer}: Us, Part I

2009-12-16T07:52:00.000-08:00

So I had the pleasure of photographing this lovely group... Uh, Yeah! that's my family! This was literally an afterthought on a late Sunday afternoon. The sun was going down soo fast and this was the only weekend we had free before the bad weather hit, so we hustled. For those of you wondering who took the photos, well, I did technically. I set my camera on top of my tri-pod, dialed in the settings, got everyone in position, hit the shutter, had 10 seconds and ran to my place. Back and forth, back and forth, adrenaline kicking in.

I, ME am my worst critic. I do not like the way I look in photographs. I have to literally take 200 before I am satisfied with one. Sound familiar? Any moms out there that can sympathize? Yes, we all have our demons. This is one of mine. This one isn't one of my best compositionally, but cut me a little slack, I WAS running back and forth, directing the kids, threatening them if they don't behave they'd be in trouble, kicking myself for not telling my husband to wear darker pants and having to deal with the sun quickly going down....

I'm a little lucky, my kids are hams, when they are in the mood, they are big posers and they refrained from the bunny ears this time, thank goodness...actually it was the evil eye from mom...

It was literally 4pm and I threw these clothes on the kids, not really having a plan in mind, but I knew the colors would meld together, plus, who'd ever thought of blue's and green's for Christmas photos? I am of the motto, whatever goes, we'll make it work, and I think it did! There are other things that I could stress out about than color coordination...

This one I like a lot, but it's not the one I chose for our cards. Of which, I ordered late because I am a busy, busy mom, or at least I pretend to be :) They are on their way to my mailbox and I hope to get them out this week. I'll post the rest of our photo session tomorrow....

Only 9 more shopping days left 'till Christmas! Off to do some shopping.... maybe I'll run into you, stop me and say hi!

{Roseville, Sacramento Photographer}: Motorsports...

2009-12-15T08:11:00.000-08:00

I mentioned here that David and I went to the 25 Hours at Thunderhill and documented the event for TEAM MER. Can you see me in the white coat throught the windshield? Very cold that day! If you are a motorsport fan, which my husband is, you will appreciate these images. If you are a fan of photography, you will appreciate these images. When I was there I wanted to document the comraderie of the team, the grittiness of the sport and the awesome-ness of the cars, the machines. Not only will you see cars, but you will see the photojournalistic side and candid side of my photography. This is the part of photography that I love, either being in the middle of a team of people doing their thing or at a wedding, it's the part I love, capturing relationships in a candid photojournalistic style.

Team MER: Day 1
Team MER: Day 2

{Roseville,Sacramento Children's Photographer}: Happy Birthday Isabella!

2009-12-14T07:55:00.000-08:00

It was a cold, windy, blustery day, seven years ago today when my beautiful girl was born. She's given me nothing but joy. My footloose and fancy free child.

She only wanted to have a sleepover party this weekend with her closest friends to share it with her. That's all. So with her brother and big sister, they all were packed like sardines to settle in for a movie...

No that arrangement didn't last for very long. But she did love that her friends were here with her and she felt very special.

Happy Birthday my most favorite purple girl... (this is one of her most favorite songs):

Thanks for stopping by. Have a great Monday!

{Roseville,Sacramento Graduating Seniors Photographer}: Mz. Jaycie

2009-12-10T08:31:00.000-08:00

This lovely graduating senior is saying so long to high school pretty soon. We spent a little time together and had some fun. She's easy going and relaxed...

I love how the sun lights her up from behind...

Had to get one of these in... "Yipee! I'm graduating!"

Showing some school spirit!

and one of my favorites from this session...

Congratulations to you Jaycie!

To see more of Jaycie's senior photo session (please give it a few seconds to load):

Please refresh your screen to replay.
Thanks for stopping by! Forward my link to a friend today, that'd be awesome!
Have a great weekend everyone!

{Roseville,Sacramento Photographer}: 25 Hours of Thunderhill

2009-12-09T07:06:00.000-08:00

In Willows this past weekend for the annual 25 Hours of Thunderhill. Race cars of all different types, pros to club racers compete in this endurace race. Non stop race around the track for 25 hours! The air was brisk, the wind was unforgiving and the cold temperature was biting!

One of the benefits of being married to a motorsport fan is that I get to go and bring my camera and snap away at cars, really COOL cars. One of the benefits for him married to a photographer is my photo equipment, my gear.

We took both camera's and all of our lenses and just had a hey day. All images of which I will be compiling for the pro team that David helped out that weekend. I had hot patches from REI stuck on to my body for warmth and two loose warmers for each of my hands, my long johns under my clothes, gloves and winter coat and snuggled into my sleeping bag to sleep in the car while the race whizzed around me. These guys are hard core..no sleeping in fancy motels for this race. Even this sweet little girl was cold...

David did manage to get this fabulous shot (the last photo in this post) and this one in the dead of night... 34 degrees, tripod, 4 second exposure, 20mm lens, wide open... (see the red streak? those were the cars..)

He's definitely finding his niche.

Have a great Wednesday!

{Roseville,Sacramento Children's Photographer}: Sweet Girl

2009-12-08T09:04:00.000-08:00

I have a few extraordinary images from 25Hours of Thunderhill that I wanted to post. I will post those tomorrow. But for now, more of this little sweet girl and her mom and dad.

No snow this morning, but still bone chillling cold!
Have a great Tuesday!

{Roseville,Sacramento Photographer}: Let it snow, let it snow, let snow...

2009-12-07T08:58:00.000-08:00

December 7, 2009, Monday. Roseville, CA...7AM, I woke up to this! A dusting of snow in my backyard! Can you see it? Some snow on the rooftops, some snow on the grass, some snow on top of the lounge chairs?

Do you see it? Snow on top of my friend's house across the ravine? The kids woke up soo excited. It was like magic to them...

They were bouncing around the house pointing out all the places where the snow had fallen...

It's a pretty big deal for us because in a place that reaches 115 degrees in the dead of summer and 70 degrees sometimes in the winter, we NEVER get snow. I ran to the front yard and saw this: More snow! alright, it's a "dusting" of snow, but still, it's snow!

Speaking of COLD! David and I went to 25Hours of Thunderhill this weekend in Willows, what that means is 25Hours of non-stop racing around a track... David took this shot at 4AM... I slept in the car... that red streak you see on the right are cars whizzing by under a beautiful cold, crisp, starry evening.....more about it tomorrow...

Be careful driving out there! Stay warm!

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: kate + stu

2009-12-04T08:49:00.000-08:00

She got a hold of me after seeing these two boys. A mother of 3, she kind of knows how hard it is to round them all up to take photos, let alone Christmas photos. So she called me. I love children's photography. I love family photography. When kids come out of their shells, their personality shows.

Big sis brought out the sass immediately. She is a dead ringer for Mamma Mia's Amanda Seyfried and Dakota Fanning.

This one had to make sure I got the new smile....

and 1/8 of a second of down time for little bro...

all the while mom and dad do what mom's and dad's do at family photosessions... but it was nice to see that they had some "alone" time too...

I am really, really fortunate to meet and photograph some pretty wonderful families...

To see more of kate + stu's family photosession (give it a few seconds to load):

Refresh your screen to replay.

Have a wonderful weekend!

{Roseville,Sacramento Senior Photographer}: Sneak Peek for Jaycie

2009-12-03T06:42:00.000-08:00

{Just a sticky: I will be in La Quinta, California on January 1 and 2. If you're in the area and would like to have a photosession with me, please email me at brotchie@comcast.net. Hope to hear from you.}

Graduating Seniors. I love them. I never did senior portraits when I was graduating. I didn't know such a concept existed. I thought you went into a dark studio and got your picture taken and that was it. I wish I had my own senior portraits done way back then. Way, waaay back then. For now Jaycie, here is a sneak peek for you.

Have a great Thursday!

Sneak Peek for Kate and Family...

2009-12-02T08:22:00.000-08:00

{Just a sticky: I will be in La Quinta, California on January 1 and 2. If you're in the area and would like to have a photosession with me, please email me at brotchie@comcast.net. Hope to hear from you.}

Dear Kate and family: I just loved the location we went to. It's so beautiful. I am working on your session and promise to have them to you very soon. I'll be in touch. For now, please enjoy your sneak peek.
All the best, jennifer

p.s. have a great hump day!

Thankful.....

2009-12-01T09:57:00.000-08:00

{Just a sticky: I will be in La Quinta, California on January 1 and 2. If you're in the area and would like to have a photosession with me, please email me at brotchie@comcast.net. Hope to hear from you.}

Some of my extended family came from Hawaii to gather together in Northern California during the Thanksgiving weekend. I am blessed with a HUGE family and it continues to grow, which I am so thankful for. I have family in Connecticut (Holla!), in New York (Holla!), in Arizona (Holla!) and of course Hawaii (Aloha!). The majority are here in Northern California. This is not including my husbands side, which are mostly in Vancouver, Canada (Holla!) and a pair in La Quinta (Holla!). It's not all the time, very rarely that we are all in one place at the same time. So when some of them do come, it's a celebration and everyone breaks out the camera's and the smiles. I think we had about a dozen point and shoots in a line to take pictures.

Above, is my cousin "Tweety", yes, that's his nickname, but goes by " DJ Tide DC" is a Bad A** DJ in Hawaii, that's right, I said Bad A**. He can break it down.

We have been a close knit family since I could remember as a very small kid. But as families grow, sometimes we grow apart, by location, by busy lives, by taking care of our own families. My cousins and I are heading into our 40's, some already there, most of us in our mid-30's, a few of us in our 20's and teens, one under 10 and as of late, another one 6 months in utero, so for me, this time together is something to cherish. I didn't plan on blogging this, but I am because it's something I want to remember.

One thing that the old folks do is sit around a card table and play majong. When the cousins were little, after they played (usually around the very early hours of the night- we're talking when the bats come out of sleeping), they would each give us money, 50 cents here, $1.00 there and if they were feeling extremely generous, maybe $2.00 a piece. Not anymore though, they all pocket their winnings now.

This girl, my cousin Jessica has the most beautiful singing voice. She has the voice of an angel and she is an angel too. Need someone to sing at your wedding, I can hook you up.

..and this little boy...he and his family are part of our family now. This little boy's mamma donated one of her kidney's to save the life of one of my aunt's. Truly a gift.

For those of you who are in the Fresno area, this is my cousin Thomas. Stop by his restaurant and lounge Twist and tell him I sent ya.

A shout out to my David for taking my camera and taking these pictures for me. While I was busy talking, hugging and catching up with my cousins, he captured some great memories for me. Love ya babe.

and of course I compiled it all into a slideshow. The music holds some nostalgia for me....part of my family used to have a family band and dj. When we'd all get together for an event, this song was played and it ALWAYS got us out on the dance floor to do a little cha, cha, cha....

(give it a few seconds to load)

Refresh your screen to replay.

One day, we'll all be together again in the same place and that would be a huge celebration! Miss and love you all so dearly.

xoxo, jenn.

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: Kim + Larry

2009-11-29T18:18:00.000-08:00

{Just a sticky: I will be in La Quinta, California on January 1 and 2. If you're in the area and would like to have a photosession with me, please email me at brotchie@comcast.net. Hope to hear from you.}

She posted on my Facebook wall after seeing this family. She posted "Alright, that's it, heading over to your website now to book my session." And that, was that. Love it when that happens.

They were excited about the prospects of the afternoon and just went with the flow. It was a beautiful, glorious, autumnal afternoon at Gibson's Ranch and Kim and her family just shined. They came with Kim's cousin's family and there was much, much love and laughter.

Beautiful daughters....

...make for beautiful sisters...

It was such a pleasure being a part of your joy for the afternoon, thank you! You guys are the BEST!

To see more of Kim and Larry's family sesh (please allow a few seconds to load up):

Please refresh your screen to replay.

Back to the normal routine week.... have a great one!

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: Thanksgiving....

2009-11-27T11:25:00.000-08:00

So are you stuffed? It was pretty low key at my place yesterday, which is how I prefer it. I cooked all day and we ate in the afternoon. Yes, didn't wait for the dinner hour. My parents and brother came over. As the years have passed, my parents are becoming, how should I say this delicately?... old fogie. Well, actually they ARE old fogie. They don't like to drive anywhere when the sun has long gone. So, I was being a good daughter and cooking Thanksgiving dinner early so that they could make the 1.5 hours back to their place.

I made your typical Thanksgiving feast fare, mashed potatoes, stuffing, roast Turkey, gravy, cranberry sauce, home made bread, etcetera, etcetera... and yes, all from scratch, and yes, I did all that whilst adorning my lovely apron...

My mom brought yummy marinated asparagus in bacon, her Thai style fried rice and some sliced pineapples...

and at the end of the early evening, we broke out the tripod and took some photos. This one made the cut. Next time dad, please smile... the old fogie is wearing you... :)

Happy Black Friday!!

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: Barb + Stu

2009-11-25T09:22:00.000-08:00

They came all the way from Santa Cruz to have their photos taken by little ol' me. A fun place with a beach and a boardwalk, but still, they decided to come here. To travel east of Sacramento...for me to point my camera at them. It helped that Barbara's cousin Kim lives near the area, but still, I'm really really honored!

One thing I noticed about these two is that they laughed, they had fun, and they were up for anything I asked them to do. Including lying down on a pile of old pond straw collecting on the edge of the pond. Giggling as they did and a bit skeptical, they trusted me anyway. I'm so glad they did, because they made that pile of old pond straw~ simply beautiful.

Their daughter was all smiles and eyes. Clearly, the center of her mom and dad's world. She danced and wiggled and boogied...

and climbed on anyone that would let her get horsie on them...

Barbara and Stu, I hope it was worth the hours spent in the car. I had such a wonderful time with you and that little cutie-patootie of yours!

To see more of Barbara & Stu's photosession click here (please allow a few minutes to load):

To replay, please refresh your screen.
A note for Kim~ I'll have your full post on Monday!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving my friends. I am truly thankful!
Cheers!
~j

{Roseville,Sacramento Children's Photographer}: Random 1

2009-11-24T09:34:00.000-08:00

One thing I must maintain, is the love of taking photos of my kids, my family. Afterall, they are the ones who inspired me into this craft of photography and set me on my way.

I love that I will be able to look back and remember certain things...
like the horse and carriage ride in Old Sacramento...they were so excited to be on this rickety thing and how it took us to the first bathroom on the route for Jensen (when you gotta go...you know...)

and their happiness when they got to pet the horse... just the little things that I don't want to forget...

Jensen's first big boy bike for his 4th birthday, with matching helmet of course...

We are so fortunate to live in a world of technology at our fingertips.
Here's one for my uncle. I went to my old hometown of Tracy California and had a session there. Yes, I do travel outside my bubble...

She's a little doll... don't you just want to grab those cheeks and squeeze just a little? Cute-ness...

Have a great Tuesday and be nice to each other at the grocery store please... it can get hectic, but just breathe, smile and be thankful...

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: Afternoon fun...

2009-11-23T08:35:00.000-08:00

Thanks for stopping by! If you haven't checked it out lately, please visit my website: www.jenniferbrotchie.com I've added some fun stuff to the about me "jennifer" , "love notes" and "weddings" pages. Thanks!

A couple of weeks ago, I spent the afternoon with two families. Kim's and her cousin Barbara (who came all the way from Santa Cruz!) and their sweet families... This is just a sneak peek for them, since I'm doing double time. We had a fun, great afternoon full of smiles and laughter... above is Kim and her hunk o'burning love- looking good you two! ;)

Sisters...

Cutie pa-tootie...

Cutie pa-tootie's parentals...(forever in love)

the whole gang...

I'll be a hermit this week with the kiddo's home for a week's vacay.. JOY!
Have a great Monday!!

{Roseville,Sacramento Senior's Photographer}: Alicia

2009-11-20T02:36:00.000-08:00

Just a word... do you see the time posted at the end of this post, 2:36 AM? I just got back from seeing New Moon... and it is freakin' awesome! Go see it!!

She came out of the car like the wind just swept her over. A big smile on her face and a sweetness that just exuded out of her, she was the first to take her hand out. Reaching her hand toward mine she said, "Hi, I'm Ali-c-ia." Of course, I was happy to return the sweet handshake.

The day was a bit brisk with a slight breeze, but she was excited to turn it on. Um, yeah, an exotic beauty that will bring them boys down to their knees....

She's leaving home for college soon and she wants to someday be a broadcast journalist..., "you know, kind of like Juliana Rancik," she says with a little jump in her shoulders and that sweet smile. "Of course", I said, "like the E Entertainment reporter, yes, I'm hip, I know exactly who you're talking about," I said back, almost as if I was validating that I am still cool...ha, kind of laughable, but I'm with it, I'm down.

If these photos are any indication, Alicia will absolutely have a place in broadcast journalism.

'course we had to get one of these..."Yay! I'm graduating!" jump in the air shots, it's almost a rule.

This young lady is an extraordinary young woman...she's going places...

To see more of Alicia's senior photosession, click here (please give it a few seconds to load):

Have a great weekend everyone, it's been an AMAZING week!!

Jasmine Star & Twilight

2009-11-19T09:19:00.000-08:00

So last night I had the pleasure of meeting Jasmine Star, wedding photographer extraordinaire. She is based out of Southern California and never comes up to Northern Cal. Or so I thought. So when I found out she was coming to my neighborhood, like 4 days before, I knew I had to be there. If you don't know who she is, visit her site, she will amaze you. She is warm, down to earth, affectionate, lovely, funny, a sister, a daughter, a woman, a wife, a photographer, she is real, down to the core. If you asked me who were my top 10 influential persons in my life are, Jasmine Star would be in the top 4, behind God, my husband, and my mom. Oh yea, to me, she is BIG.

David and I were in the front row and I was listening intently. My eyes and ears were centered on her, everything she had to say... my mind was open. I am internalizing everything she said and in the next few months you will see it manifest itself... I'm really excited...

She brought IT...

and her MAC...

and her shoes...

Jasmine Star and me, Jennifer Brotchie.. fo reals. Ack!
I admire and adore her, period.

EDITED: OMG! Thanks J* for choosing one of my images! Wow! and thanks so much for visiting me from J*'s link! WOW.. I'm beside myself right now.

Speaking of big...

Oh yea, I am a Twilight mom. I am a Twi-hard, self confessed, and proud. I even have two Twilight Saga t-shirts that I lurve! I feel like a giggly teenager filled with excitement in anticipation of a rock concert with my girlfriends. But this rock concert is the big premiere of New Moon. I am going to the midnight showing and I am so diggin' it! See the other ticket peeking behind that ticket? I'm going to see Twilight just before New Moon, a double feature. Can you hear me screaming!! Wow! Excitement abounds! I just hope I don't fall asleep watching Twilight since I've watched it a billion times. Are you going tonight? Have a great great GREAT Twilight Thursday!

{Roseville,Sacramento Senior's Photographer}: Sneak Peek for Alicia

2009-11-18T07:51:00.000-08:00

Just a sneak peek for this gorgeous graduate. Isn't she lovely?

Full post on Friday... yes, Alicia, Friday!! Are you excited?

Thank you internet world for stopping and checking out my blog! Thank you for all your lovely personal comments on my facebook page and personal emails... but don't be shy to post on the blog either ;) Have a great Wednesday!!!

{Roseville,Sacramento Children's Photographer}: Kari & P

2009-11-16T07:43:00.000-08:00

I saw them from afar as I was getting out of my car walking in their direction. Her mother sitting on the bench, soaking up the sun with a smile on her face, watching her daughter dance and prance around. As I approached and made my hello's, I drew out my hand to offer a handshake, "P" refused and instead gave me a warm inviting smily hug. Wow! It was going to be a great afternoon.

What I love about photography is that I get to witness the love between people. People that I've never met before or people that I lost touch with and have reconnected with after many years, say like almost 2 decades, like Kari. Who'd ever known that our musical connection would bring us to see Music Mike at the same town, same day, same library and sit right, darn, next to each other? Who would have ever known that after high school, that one day I'd be photographing her little girl? Yeah, wrap your head around that one...

The love that this mother has for her daughter and the love that this daughter has for her mother is unquestionable. There is no denying it.

What I think is so special is the fact that they will have this set of memories to remember this time in their lives. Think ahead...go on... think.... think 20 years in the future when this little girl is 25, are you picturing it? They find time to be together, taking a break from hectic schedules. They snuggle in close and start to get nostalgic, they break out the photos and reminisce about the events around this time... I'm practically crying already from imagining. Kari, please Facebook me and let me know what a wonderful time you both had remembering what a great kid you had back in 2009. K? Don't forget. :)

One thing that they will surely remember fondly is how big a fan "P" is of Hannah Montana. THE biggest fan... I'm flashing into the future and I can see her giggling about it with her mom. If she's anything like her mother though, Hannah Montana is just the start, she will continue to grow her love of music to rock out to all her life.

Kari and "P", thank you for spending your afternoon with me in Old Sacramento, I had a great, great time!

To see more of this photosession, click here (please allow a few seconds to load):

Have a truly wonderful Monday!

{Roseville,Sacramento Children's Photographer}: Sneak Peek for Kari

2009-11-13T09:28:00.000-08:00

A sneak preview for this little girl's mamma. What a fantastical time we had!

She's such a natural...

wouldn't you agree?

Have a great weekend!!

{Roseville,Sacramento Children's Photographer}: Gibson Ranch

2009-11-12T09:43:00.000-08:00

This weekend we ventured over to this place... what a wonderful find! It's like we stumbled upon a hidden treasure in the middle of the 'burbs.

The kids were thrilled and squealed and jumped with excitement as their eyes went large with this vision. The huge pond and the ducks and the expanse of wide open areas to explore was a welcome release of energy to round out our busy weekend..

A mother first and foremost, I always get nervous when I see my kid right at the edge...

We are a two camera family and of course David is ever ready with his and was content capturing the ducks. Awesome shot hun!

Marlena and I ventured on our own...

The older she gets, the less she wants her photo taken. She made her mama happy when she obliged.

Such a beautiful place...

If you know of any places in the greater Sacramento County area and Placer County areas, please let me know! I'm always in search of locations... and, why, yes, I would love to take YOU here one day....!!

Thanks for visiting and feel free to bookmark my blog and forward it to a friend.... Kari, if you are reading...your sneak peek will be up tomorrow!

{Roseville,Sacramento Children's Photographer}: Cool like that...

2009-11-10T09:21:00.000-08:00

As I was greeted at the door, the older one came up to me and I extended my hand to shake his and asked him what his name was. Very polite. The younger brother came very quietly behind his older brother. As I reached out to shake his hand to introduce myself, he had a big grin and told me his name. I noticed the new grown up teeth starting to make themselves comfortable in his little boy mouth. But what I noticed from the start was their bright, sparkling eyes. Their mother mentioned it to me, but I had no idea. Stunning. Blue.

The eyes soon took a backseat to excited boys. Well, this one was excited and full of energy and his older brother was playing it cool. Mom was in the background and tried to calm young son down and direct the smiles. I could see that he wanted to appease her but also wanted to let loose. The quiet battle dance between wills was starting to take place.... I know you mother's out there know what I'm talking about. Eventually, the quiet glances and giggles soon surrendered to mom because as you can see...

...the boys did great! They were themselves. There is a written code among brothers and these boys knew the code. I really enjoyed watching them relate and hug and punch and smile and chase and laugh and laugh....

They took my direction well. I asked them to stick their hands in their pockets and "be cool like that". Jeez, naturals I'm telling you, because these boys were OH SO, COOL LIKE THAT!

Thank you for giving me a fun couple of hours! It was much fun! All the best always!

To see more of these cool boys photo sesh (give it a few seconds to load):

Please refresh your screen to replay.
Happy Tuesday!

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: Happy Birthday Sweetheart!

2009-11-09T09:53:00.000-08:00

(photo taken December 2003)
Happy Birthday to my wonderful husband... I can really gush and gush about him, but I'll save you, so won't. Just know that my life is perfect because of him. Love you sweetie!

{Roseville,Sacramento Children's Photographer}: Lost in their eyes....

2009-11-06T07:33:00.000-08:00

I always, always applaud mothers with boys. I have one boy and he runs me ragged...exhausting, never a holiday. These boys were no exception. I'll leave it at that for now. I was only there for a couple of hours, but I was lost in their eyes....

Have a great weekend!

(Roseville, Sacramento Wedding Photographer}: Beautifully Magical, It's all in the details....

2009-11-05T07:06:00.000-08:00

I mentioned here that I had the pleasure of photographing this wonderful couple on their special day. The minute I arrived I immediately noticed quiet busy-ness. As I made my way through, I realized these busy folks were family...happily contributing their part of this momentous day to the start of Laura and Joe's life together. There was Laura's beautiful sister, Katie frosting the cake. YES! Frosting the cake like 1 hour before showtime! Smiling all the way through it, never breaking a sweat. Laura's equally lovely mother, Beth. Happily strumming along creating her vision of her daughter's day into reality... Look at that gorgeous centerpiece! Pumpkins encased in beautiful glass displays emblazoned with autumnal colors sparkling with a hint of glitter. Absolutely gorgeous!

The tables carried the theme... silverware with aged bronze handles that finished in swirls, each place setting received a candied apple dipped in caramel and chocolate. At night the tent was lit with mood setting everglow mini lights and the surrounding trees even had their own glow.

The colors...OH, the glorious, beautiful colors. Deep oranges and yellows mixed with a lush crimson laid out on the beautiful canvas of green that captured the days golden falling leaves...

Incredible vision that Laura's mother Beth held in her mind's eye... mixed in with the physical beauty of it all was the incredible warmth and love that was generated within this family and emanated through to those who witnessed and celebrated. This truly was a family affair, from their officiant, to the close friends of the family who prepared the feast, to the flowers, to Joe's dad and his homemade apple pies from their family orchard- and I'm sure so many more to mention-, it was physically beautiful and inwardly magical.

I'll end this post with a little music and this cute little guy. He was very content in making little dirt roads with his little monster truck creating his own brand of magic. Happy Thursday!!

{Roseville,Sacramento Wedding Photographer}: Laura + Joe

2009-11-02T19:58:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling extra generous and happy tonight to be posting a huge, huge, sneak peak for Laura and Joe. I'm so excited for them to see their images. Laura made a beautiful bride and Joe sat back and let Laura's smile just tell the whole story.

The venue was at Laura's family ranch. She grew up on this ranch and it holds special meaning to her. Wow, it was just a wonderful, glorious, beautiful day and it was filled with so much love, exuding from everyone in attendance.

The bride was radiant, so calm and collected, she was kind enough to ask ME if I was stressed out. I gave her a big hug.

Another fav as Laura's sister reads during the ceremony.

This one gets me right to the heart... emotions captured, dad stealing a glance of his daughter right before he walks her down the aisle.... really, I'm crying already....

The love exudes and it is felt by all who are near...

Laura and Joe, thank YOU for giving me a special, memorable day!

To see more of Laura + Joe's wedding (please give it a few seconds to load):

Please refresh your screen to replay.
I'll be posting a few more images this week to show off what amazing work Laura's mother put into this wedding....

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: Halloween....

2009-11-02T07:32:00.000-08:00

So what were my kids for Halloween? This little guy was Buzz Lightyear.

Big sis was an Egyptian princess...

Little sis was a genie...

and we made a good candy run around the neighborhood.

I also went to this place...

It's a really cool walk bridge in Fair Oaks and also a beautiful photo op location. Shoot me an email if you need holiday photos! We'll whip 'em out. David took the snapshot, btw. He's becoming really good.

Hope you've all come down from the kids sugar rushes!
Have a great Monday!

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: Shannon + Mike

2009-10-29T07:32:00.000-07:00

I first met this family last year and I was thrilled when Shannon called me to come back and photograph them again. Beyond thrilled. They are a very sweet family. Can't you tell? and look just how gorgeous this mamma is, heck, the whole family is stunning!

This is the apple of their eye...she's a little firecracker. Adorable with a capital A. I could sit and she would perform for me for hours, I'm sure of it.

The sun was glorious and gorgeous and so was this family....

Thank you for spending your afternoon with me!

To see more of Shannon + Mike's photo sesh:

(Please refresh your screen to view again.)
Have a great weekend everyone, I've got little goblins to tend to.
Thanks for visiting and please pass on my link to a friend today, that would be a great treat.

~j

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: Happy 4th Birthday Jensen!

2009-10-28T07:40:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my Beautiful Boy. Time goes by too fast.

(please refresh your screen to replay)
Have a great Wednesday!

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: David

2009-10-27T09:05:00.000-07:00

Before I go on about anything this week, I wanted you to know more about this man. My husband. My soulmate. My best friend. The yin, to my yan. He is everything plus a bag of chips. He encourages me and supports me to follow what makes me happy. He lifts me up when I am discouraged. He is my devil's advocate. He is my hunter gatherer and brings home the bacon. But most of all, he believes in me, when I don't believe in myself. He had it in him, to pick up the camera and learn so that he could be with me on photoshoots, he is "officially" my second shooter...not because he has to be, but because he wants to be.

We've got a long history behind us and we walk together on the path into our future. I love you sweetheart, thank you.

{Roseville,Sacramento Wedding Photographer}: Sweets....

2009-10-26T09:56:00.000-07:00

Hello Monday!! Wow, it's been a very busy weekend and I don't think it's going to let up anytime soon. I took Jensen to Bishop's Pumpkin Farm on Friday for his pre-K class trip. We had the greatest time together.

and I'm working on this sweet family.... can't wait to show you the rest!

and these sweet feet below to one of the nicest brides anyone could ever meet. I had the honor of photographing her big day on Saturday. Here is an itty bitty sneak peek for her. Of course, can't wait to show you the whole shebang!

(photo credit given to my dear friend Natalie Truman)
and to round out my weekend.... the sweetest boy you'll ever meet... my son's 4th birthday party... so much excitement!

Check back during the week, so much to share!
Have a great Monday!!

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: Lisa & John

2009-10-22T20:20:00.000-07:00

Meet John and Lisa and their two boys. Just about the nicest people on the planet, aside from Michelle and Corbin. Michelle and Lisa are sisters and I had the pleasure of photographing both their families last weekend.

The weather was beautiful and the smiles soon came out...

This is her 5 1/2 month old...just a doll...not one peep...

He really went with the flow...

Thank you for spending your afternoon with me, you were all so wonderful. Dave and I had a blast!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone...my weekend will be filled with excitement, can't wait to share! Oh, BTW... if you visit a lot please become a "follower" by clicking the link all the way to the right over there--------------->

To see more of John & Lisa's family sesh (give it a few seconds to load up & refresh your screen to replay):

Thanks for stopping by!

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: Michelle & Corbin

2009-10-21T10:33:00.000-07:00

There is something about families that I love to photograph. In the moment, it can be a little harried with excited kids running around... but in that instance when I look into my viewfinder and go click, click, click, something really magical happens. See for yourself!

I've been reunited with my friend Michelle when we both went to our high school reunion. It was fantastic to see her again and be of same mind both being mothers with children of similar ages.
How cute is her son?

Speaking of children... what I love about these young ages is their personalities. Sometimes they pout, sometimes they are clowns, sometimes they are hungry but just remember when you look back at your photos, that this is who your child is at this age, and it's so fun to look back and reminisce. Like this little spitfire... I can't really pinpoint how to "categorize" her, but it doesn't matter, I captured her and I love it.

and her brother... yeup, love it!

I would be remiss if I didn't include the chopper shot... =)

To see more of Michelle & Corbin's family sesh:

Please refresh your screen to view again.
Again, thanks for visiting and if you love my blog, please pass it on to a friend today. Happy Hump Day!

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: Sneak Peek #2

2009-10-20T06:56:00.000-07:00

Another sneak peek from my two family photo session this weekend.

I ADORE this one...

Thanks for stopping by! I love visitors!
Have a great day!

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: Sneak Peek

2009-10-19T06:44:00.000-07:00

Great fun this weekend with this family. Yeah, that's a BAD A** chopper.
Monday already! Have a great one.

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: Wente Bros. Winery

2009-10-18T09:49:00.000-07:00

David and I were at Wente Brothers Winery in Livermore yesterday for a two family photo shoot. What a beautiful day it was yesterday.... and I got a new lens to try out. A Canon 20mm f2.8, super wide angle. These shots are straight out of the camera, with a wee bit of sharpening. I love it.

Straight from the camera shots, at pretty good exposure, the sky is perfectly blue.

... and the morning sky is just as pretty as the late afternoon sky.

Hope you are all having a fabulous weekend!

{Roseville,Sacramento Engagement Photographer}: Northern Stars

2009-10-15T21:12:00.000-07:00

These two have been through a lot of drama in their young lives, both making decisions and taking the paths that were set before them. My earliest memory was meeting my cousin Rizal when he was around 4 and I was around 10. A little kid with a bowl haircut, excited to meet another member of his extended family, when his family of 3 moved back to Northern California. An only child with a loving, doting mother and a proud, proud father. Devoted to their only son. Life happened and like any young man, Rizal followed his path. Little did he know at the time, that when he brought his son into this world, that Jordan would eventually lead him to Christine.

J.R. and Jordan had karate practice together and became fast friends. It was there that Rizal noticed Christine and she noticed back. They come together with his and her sons, their Northern Stars...

Like his mom and dad, Rizal is a proud father and Christine is a very loving, doting mother and they make one heckuva couple....

...and he really hasn't taken his eyes off her yet....

Christine, Rizal, J.R. and Jordan, the stars have aligned for you and your journey together is just beginning to be filled with love and happiness. I am so happy for you and wish you nothing but the best. xoxo.

Oh! and yes, your disk is in the mail :)

To see more of Christine + Rizal's engagement session:

Please refresh your screen to play slideshow again.

Thanks for visiting!

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: Laguna Seca

2009-10-14T12:33:00.000-07:00

I mentioned in this post that we were in Monterey, Mazda Laguna Seca Raceway for the big American Le Mans Series race or ALMS. My husband is a huge Flying Lizards Fan. They race suped up Porsches, supercars, not your usual Porsche. This time around we took the kids so they could experience the thrill of being at the track. If you've never been to an event like this and love speed and cars, you should go. Hearing the supercars whiz by live in person is really something to experience. Although, you have to be a HUGE fan to listen to it all day long.

This time, my husband had the camera. He tried his hand and I think he did pretty darn good, it does help that his wife has some pretty darn good equipment too. Helluva shot, don't you think?

Don't you all run out and buy expensive camera gear now... He took darn near 500 shots and got about maybe 10 good ones and this ONE AWESOME shot. Par for the course in motorsport photography, but I'm proud of him that he enjoyed himself lugging around 6 pounds worth of camera equipment, panning right to left, left to right, click, click, click....

Yes, that's me and Isabella and Jensen, taken by David. Not bad. It was a beautiful day, although, hot when you started to walk around and then cold when you stayed in one place for too long. I was constantly taking my sweater on and off.

Maybe about an hour since we got there, Jensen looked at me and said, "OK, time to go home now." He was a trooper though. Actually, they all were troopers, especially when we saw the bounce houses and just let them at it for an hour or so while I stayed with them and David went off on his own to perch himself to get those shots.

It was a pretty full day and I was really happy to go this year and bring the entire family. I love these family days together. Someday soon, we'll go watch a real live Formula One Race. Now that would be cool.

Thanks for visiting my blog! Please pass on my link if you don't mind... it'd make me really happy :)

{Roseville,Sacramento Engagement Photographer}: Christine + Rizal

2009-10-13T07:07:00.000-07:00

I'm getting a new cousin-in-law next year. She's adorable and she and my cousin could not be a better match.

One thing I enjoy tremendously during my photo sessions is to see just how fast the world can stop around two people and for a few stolen moments there can be no one else around. Like this moment, when the sun flare is working with me and encircles them in its glow. Sun flare and me have a great relationship when we are in tune.

Christine is a stunning peach, right?

Rizal and Christine were up for anything and I couldn't have had the more perfect couple. We hit up a new spot I've been wanting to photograph in and I think it worked out perfect. Christine was workin' it, sexy boots eh? ...sizzle...

This is a just a sneak peek for them...full post on Friday.

Try to stay dry out there today and drive carefully! It's wet. Happy Tuesday.

{Roseville,Sacramento Family Photographer}: In Monterey....

2009-10-12T07:33:00.000-07:00

We drove to Monterey for Friday's American LeMans Series Race at Laguna Seca to see the Flying Lizards. My husband is a big motorsport fan...I'll post more on that later this week. Afterwards, we had made our way to the beach for some fun.

This is the best time of year to go. The sun was out, the sky was soo blue, the waters were calm and there was no wind. Of course, a perfect photo op.

I love the way the sun shines on her hair like that. It's so lovely.

My kids are no exception, they love to climb on the rocks and search for sea creatures and sea treasures.

Daddy helping his son clean off his hands. One day Jensen will be doing the same with his son.

My baby turning into a little boy. (my heart is melting...)

...and even though the sky was beautifully blue, this image is my most favorite...pointing my camera into the sun, the glorious sun, so beautiful.

Yes, my camera just about goes everywhere with me and I'd love to take your family photos, drop me an email and just ask!

Happy Monday!

(Roseville, Sacramento Children's Photographer} RDK

2009-10-08T08:39:00.000-07:00

This cutie is having his birthday coming up pretty soon and his mom asked if I would commemorate by taking his photos...of course! I happily obliged.

RDK is the sweetest, gentle and most reserved little boy I've ever met.

And he's going to be a big brother pretty soon too.

Doesn't his big brown eyes just make you melt??

To see his photosession:

(Please refresh your screen to reload the slideshow and watch it again)
Going to see some Flying Lizards...have a great weekend!

{Roseville/Sacramento Photographer: jennifer brotchie photography } : Little Boy Shoes

2009-10-07T10:16:00.000-07:00

They are just shoes, but they mean so much. My last baby, not a baby anymore, on the verge of turning 4. The white Robeez that started with his oldest sister, to his middle sister, then him. The slip on tennies that he wore until he couldn't wear them anymore. Now the Skechers, because "dey so coo mom". This is the stuff I want to look back and remember fondly.

Pasta with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce...

2009-10-06T08:33:00.000-07:00

One thing of many that I love about the internet, is the ability to find terrific recipes. Like this one. It's really easy and the outcome is deliciously satisfying. I added grilled chicken to mine. Try it tonight!

Happy Tuesday!

My Weekend in a Mosaic: 10/3-10/4

2009-10-05T09:24:00.000-07:00

1. IMG_2115, 2. IMG_1982, 3. IMG_1814, 4. IMG_1981, 5. IMG_1963, 6. IMG_1978, 7. IMG_1977, 8. IMG_1974, 9. IMG_1975

1. Walking in my favorite photo location with my photo session family.
2. Cheers! with Halloween skeleton hands!!
3. My Saturday afternoon photo session
4. Home made Clam Chowder with place settings courtesy of Marlena.
5. Me. Photo credit given to my husband.
6. Clam Chowder recipe.
7. Jensen + Wii= his guilty pleasure.
8. Pomegranate jewels.
9. High School Musical Gabriella doll with Ken doll.

Thanks for stopping by! Have a great Monday!!!

The pleasure of her company...

2009-10-01T08:11:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of this lovely lady's company yesterday morning... she was a trooper as the early morning weather has turned a bit colder in our part of California. Normally approaching the mid 70's by mid morning, it dipped into the 60's with a slight breeze and this momma of 2 was game. I couldn't be more grateful when she agreed to be my subject for my new website, jenniferbrotchie.com.

"Intimate Portraits" is a new category that I'm taking my photography into. Natural, beautiful, classy, grace is the kind of intimacy that I like to capture... a wonderful gift for your special someone. Of course, I'll photograph you beautiful men as well =).. actually I can't wait for one you to ask me!!

Please go check out my site and as always please forward the info to a friend today and you'll make this girl very happy =)

Evidence of Them....

2009-09-28T09:24:00.000-07:00

When the house is quiet and the kids are in school...I find evidence of them.
Like the half eaten graham crackers that Jensen left on the kitchen bench...

Or the much examined leaf arrangement that the girls left on the table...

I have a brief moment of motherly angst about the mess, but soon realize that it's the pieces of them that they leave behind unknowingly for me and I can smile about it and love them even more for it.

Tracy + Colin = Baby Henry

2009-09-25T09:32:00.000-07:00

They were waiting for me in the courtyard...two people in love, full of smiles and laughter...Never mind the blistering heat, they were up for it.

They settled into each other soo easily. Her beautiful curves of motherhood just eased into his embraces so effortlessly.

They were so insync with each other, so connected. It was amazingly beautiful to be able to witness this kind of connection and capture it.

They are going to be amazing parents to Baby Henry.

To see the entire session:

Tracy + Colin from Jennifer Brotchie on Vimeo.

To view in HD, click "HD is off" follow directions on screen.
(Music by Parachute, She is Love)

Thank you for spending your Sunday with me! All the best to you both!

Out on the track...

2009-09-24T08:46:00.000-07:00

So as I mentioned earlier in the week, my husband is a huge HUGE motorsport fan. He races his own suped up Mustang around the course. He's always wanted me to take my camera out to the track during SCCA solo cup and snap some shots. With him being in a cast and out for the season, this past weekend was the perfect time. Naturally, I don't want to get run over, so he was my spotter/assistant for the day.

Motorsport photography is a totally different "animal" than people photography. How do you tell stories with cars?

You can definitely capture speed...

but I love to capture stories...
like this guy, not more than 12, in his go cart, whizzing by...maybe a future Formula One Champ?

or it's the dad who gave his car to his son and are enjoying the gravel for the day...

or it's the afternoon spent together enjoying brotherhood...

whatever the story was, it was a great day to be out on the track...

Thanks for stopping by! As always, if you enjoy my blog, please pass on the link. Be sure to stop tomorrow, full posting of Tracy + Colin's pregnancy sesh.
Have a great Thursday!

First Tooth...

2009-09-23T10:17:00.000-07:00

To her surprise, a month ago, she got her first wiggly tooth. Excitement, excitement! "Will it come out today mom?" "Give it about a month sweetie, just keep wiggling it," I said. "Ok, I need to eat more apples, that'll help." Girl has got a lot of logic.

So the day came, it was time..., that tooth was hanging on by the edge. "When does dad get home mom?, I want him to take it out tonight." Of course, dad happily obliged.

...and it was a family event! (gargle, gargle, swish, swish, spit...)

...gotta take another look....

Her new smile..... "Mom, I've got a few more to lose to catch up with Olivia.. ;)"

Tracy + Colin Sneak Peek

2009-09-22T08:51:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of a Sunday afternoon to photograph these two lovebirds and their little birdie in the belly. Just a sneak peek of their session because the suspense is getting to the grandma to be! Enjoy!

and one of my personal favs...

Have a lovely Tuesday!

My Incredible Hulk?

2009-09-21T10:23:00.000-07:00

A busy weekend was had in my household! I need another day just to recover. Monday came too soon. David is a huge, HUGE, HUGE!! motorsport fan. Big on Formula One Racing and the American LeMans Series. So it was only natural that he would want me to learn to photograph fast cars. It was hot on the pavement, but I had a lot of fun trying to capture those speed shots. I'll post those soon.

We found these two beat up cars just hanging out and David did his best "don't get me mad" pose, you know like what David Banner says right before he transforms into the Incredible Hulk. Although in my case, my husband is not the hulk, but he is pretty darn INCREDIBLE!

Go forth and make it a great week!

On being grateful...

2009-09-17T11:46:00.000-07:00

Everyday I wake up, I stretch, blink a couple of times, reach my leg over to my husband's warm leg for reassurance and think, "I'm a lucky girl". I had a relatively good upbringing, I went to school, got my degree, worked in my career for a time, got married, had kids, now here I am. A roof over my head, food to eat, family and friends that I love, my health and my family's health, nothing to complain about. Sometimes I really have to stop and say to myself... it's not luck, it's being blessed, truly.

< I am blessed > .

I am grateful for my husband.

and I'm grateful for you...

I am grateful for you...

and I am grateful for you...

My heart is open and I am listening.
Stop and take a moment sometime soon and be grateful for the things and people you love.

O & P, Golden Girls

2009-09-15T14:08:00.000-07:00

One that makes me smile. Thanks for visiting and please, if you enjoy my blog, please forward the link. Hope you're having a great Tuesday.

Recovering...

2009-09-14T11:20:00.000-07:00

All the kiddos got sick this weekend. Starting with Belles, then Marlena and Jensen at the same time. Jensen seemed to have recovered within a day. We were couped up and they wanted to get out and stretch, so we went on a little walk.

Bella was back to herself in no time and Marlena is still recovering. The sun did us great, especially since the weather turned grey all of a sudden. All I know is that I'm constantly washing hands and hand santizing.
Not much going on for the next couple of days.

Baby J

2009-09-11T09:16:00.000-07:00

It was a pleasurable morning meeting this little guy. At 6 weeks, he is a stunner.

I love this age. Hands still in a grip, eyes wandering, not yet having enough muscles to break out a smile.

His neck just oh so strong enough to keep up his head. Listening for mamma, making sure she's close by.

Staring out into the world with his gentle blue eyes. I often wonder what they're thinking. 6 weeks. The soft skin, the newborn smell.

The round belly full of milk. Satisfied for a bit.

Yes, I'm talkin' about you. Just look at your belly!

Thanks Baby J and mama for letting me come over. You are going to get soo big, soo fast. To see more of Baby J click here.

Happy Friday!

Home with a Sickie...

2009-09-10T10:54:00.000-07:00

She's home with the sickies today. Just a fever, but still, a mother needs to be cautious and not send her kid to school to spread anything. Heaven knows what little nasties they bring home. Nothing that a Jamba Juice, Coldbuster with Immunity boost won't help later in the afternoon. Is it Thursday already?

My Big Boy...

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

First day of Pre-K for my little buddy. He woke up this morning, picked out his own clothes, ate breakfast, brushed his teeth and was ready to go.

Of course he was ready. Back pack and everything! and he knew the way....

He walked right in like he owned the joint...didn't need his mom to hold his hand. He had it all under control.

My last little birdie is flying the coop. Mamma loves you buddy.

Squirrels and Labor Day

2009-09-07T20:46:00.000-07:00

Today was a relaxing day, the whole weekend was quite relaxing actually. We've been busy with hustling and bustling that this weekend was a much needed one to do nothing. Absolutely nothing. I did nothing taking photos of my kids.

So I ask Belles, "Why are you collecting all those acorns?" and she says to me, "So in the winter time when the squirrels are hungry, they'll have enough to eat." She was busy laboring for the squirrels today for a bit.

Sweet Boy.

2009-09-03T14:01:00.000-07:00

Here's a sweet boy that I got to take photographs of this summer. He really is a sweet little boy and he loves the neighbor girls; who happen to belong to me. :)

It's almost Friday!

Fancy Free

2009-09-02T09:46:00.000-07:00

To be 6 again. Not a care in the world. Footloose and Fancy Free, this is who she is. Have a great Wednesday!

Hello Tuesday! Hello September! Hello Heaven Bread!

2009-09-01T09:36:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it's September already?
So a few things happened this past weekend. One in particular, was David getting casted on his right hand. Terrible, terrible cast claustrophobia. That picture up there was the part that was snipped off by yours truly. The part that covered his broken 5th metacarpal and the ring finger, which I'm guessing is the 4th metacarpal. Those two fingers were fiberglassed ('cause they don't make casts out of plaster anymore) into a bent position and evidently was driving him crazy... like trying to get a cat to stay in bath water.. not havin' it. So now, he's bandanged up with removable ACE bandage and he's promised to be ginger about it. My fingers are crossed.

What else? My Facebook page got hacked. Couldn't believe it. Well, yeah, I can. I am sorta a facebook junkie. I like to know what my friends are doing, I post what I'm doing, and I think my friends care. At least, I'd like to think they do. Well, the hacker posed as me and PopChatted with a friend of mine, told her I was in London, got mugged and needed her to wire money to me, er, the perp. Well my friend, this hot mama right here, got wise. Especially when she just seen me pick up my kids from school just the day before. Anyway, my page is back to normal now and the cybercriminal has moved on. But just for all of you out there, make sure your FB password is not the same as your email password. Mine wasn't, but it could have been worse.

To end today's post, a while back, my sweet friend Nat, brought me over some fresh bread. Gosh, it was so Fan-flippin'tastic. She boasted about her bread maker. It didn't take me long to head over to W-mart and get one for myself.

There is something really satisfying eating freshly baked bread and it really only takes a few minutes to throw all the ingredients together and in a few hours, you'll be devouring a whole loaf- so be careful! it can be quite dangerous to the waistline.

I found this recipe for Herb Bread on about.com.

My kids call it "heaven bread" because if heaven had a taste, it really would be this bread. Case.Closed. Fantastic with a an oil and balsalmic vinegar dip. I guarantee it won't last more than 10 minutes.

Your bread maker should be on "dough only" mode. After the bread maker has done it's prep, I slap it on an oven sheet sprayed with cooking spray. A little flour on my hands and I lightly flatten the dough to a rectangular shape. I let it sit to rise for an hour or two and bake it at 425d's for about 8-9 minutes...I watch until the top is golden.

Smell heaven wafting through the air...so good!

Out of the oven, I lightly brush the top with olive oil and throw on a sprinkle of salt.

Then I get pushed out of the way as my kids and husband devour it. Try it, you'll love it and thank you about.com...best recipe hands down.

BerryPickers

2009-08-31T15:17:00.000-07:00

The last day of summer, the day before school started, we went with our friends to Amber Oaks Berry Farm. I'm so glad we did. The kids had a lot of fun picking berries and roaming around the grounds.

Collectively, we managed 18 baskets of fresh, off the vine, blackberries, between our 3 families.

and for me...a great location to photograph all the kids. That's always a bonus.
That's my Jensen and little Zara. Apparently, they are married now.

My sweet Belles and her basket.

Ingrid and her stash and stain. She told me that she knows how to pose now. Okay. Thank you very much darling girl. Oh, yes, pose she did! :)

Ever so stylish Paige. She managed to wear her fashionable shades the whole time picking berries. It wouldn't surprise me if she also wore cucumbers on her eyelids when she napped ;)

Paige's twin, Olivia. Proud as a peacock, showing off the new gap of her pearly whites.

My little sportin' dude with his berries. Thank you Uncle Scott for the cool shades, yes, he's been wearing them a lot lately.

and Mr. Liam, Ingrid and Zara's little brother. Cool as a cucumber the whole time. Not one fuss. A dream-boat.

and the big sisters, I'd be in trouble if I didn't show them off too!

In addition to the berries, we picked out tomatoes to our hearts content.

What a great morning! Thanks girls for inviting us along.

And in case you're wondering...I found these cool TTV frames that I've been having fun with from Nesster on Flickr. What do you think of the effect?

Salad: Easy & Delish

2009-08-28T11:13:00.000-07:00

Salads..I love salads. I always have to have a small salad before my meal when we go out to dinner. This one is my favorite, it's soo easy, I'll make it for lunch and dinner:

a bowl full of salad greens
a spoonful of dried cranraisins
shrimp (or even diced deli meat is just as delish)
parmesan cheese or feta cheese (add to your liking)
drizzle some olive oil and balsamic vinegar (a little will go along way)
salt & pepper to taste (I don't put either, but you might prefer some)
toss and eat!
So simple and delicious...

Enjoy!

Casted.

2009-08-27T08:55:00.000-07:00

It happened last Friday, at home, after work. We all have had those days. Those weeks. Rough. Not easy, at. all..... David, my husband, the perfectionist, the professional. "Get it done Dave", that's him. Picking up a "fits in the palm of your hand" toy, he grabbed it. Focusing his frustration on the toy, gripping, squeezing. Release the bad energy, need to release it. A raise of the fist, and a pound to the counter. Done. Pain, pain, pain, really, intense pain.

It was the weekend and the swelling immediately set in. Oh, take some motrin, set it on ice. The swelling will go down. Two days.

Monday afternoon, not so says the X-Ray. A "boxer's fracture", crack in the 5th metacarpal, or the pinky finger to you and me. Wednesday afternoon, cast it.

Wednesday night..not so good. Google: Cast Claustrophobia, it exists. Quick! Run to the garage, find something! FIND SOMETHING!

FOUND SOMETHING! Get it off, GET IT OFF! ......Relief! Sweet Relief!

Thursday morning.......to be continued.....

Yesterday.

2009-08-26T08:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday. First day of school. August 25, 2009.

May 2006, Marlena was 5 and Isabella was 3. Marlena started kindergarten, Isabella stayed home and Jensen was about 7 months old. Back then, Marlena was (and still is) the big sister taking her sister's hand and leading the way. Marlena about to start school, Isabella a bit disappointed. Her arm around Isabella's shoulder, she said to her little sis, "Don't worry Belle, someday you'll go to school too and I'll help you... I'll be home around lunch time."

Yesterday. Marlena started the 3rd grade and Isabella started the 1st grade. Marlena took her sister's hand and lead the way. This time she said, "Belle, you'll love it! You get 2 recesses and if we're early we get 3!" They both squealed in excitement. There I was, watching through the gates, waving my good-byes. Them, walking hand in hand, big sis leading the way for her little sis. My heart melting. My eyes filled with happiness for a few stolen moments in my own thoughts. Then I realized my hand was empty..."Jensen! come here!"

A New Perspective

2009-08-23T10:18:00.000-07:00

(photo taken from nieniedialogues.blogspot.com)

I have never met Stephanie Nielsen, but she's given me a new perspective on life. I've only just followed Nie Nie's blog for maybe the past 6 months and her story is riveting, tragic, uplifting, and glorious all at once. But the twist is that it's not a "story", it's her life. A beautiful young mother of four little ones, a handsome doting husband, a wonderful life filled with so much love. Their lives change in an instant with a near fatal airplane crash that left Nie Nie and her husband critically burned and her life changed as she knew it. She spends her days recovering, going into surgeries for skin grafts, painful rehabilitation of her limbs, reminiscing, feeling her way into being a mom again, a wife again, a woman again, loving, documenting, hoping, and praying and always being thankful. She has touched me. Read about her story here...http://nieniedialogues.blogspot.com/ She will touch you too.

Summer kisses bring Autumn hugs...

2009-08-21T23:09:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy summer and I've neglected my photography and my blog...priorities over summer vacation are the kids, end.of.story. With that said, we had a relaxing summer but it seemed so busy. How does that happen? Lots of ice cream, lots of swimming, lots of sleeping late, lots of hot days and air-conditioning. One camping trip that was fun. More so for the kids being in the free outdoors getting dirrty, very, very dirrty!

They didn't care though and what the heck, it's camping :) !

The days were beautiful and the temperature just right..oh, but the nights! cold, cold, cold!
On another note, I attended my 20 year high school reunion. I was very hesitant right up to the last minute, but went and much to my surprise had a fantastic time.

Here I am in the car, a ball of nerves and anxiety, photo taken with a little bitty hand held point and shoot.
So how do you know summer is coming to an end? When the kids go back to school of course! Yes, we will be there next week.....

Graduation, San Fran & Independence Day

2009-07-06T18:25:00.000-07:00

Summer is here and I've been a busy mom. Belles graduated Kindergarten and we couldn't have been more proud. Isn't she cute? That lady there is one of the best Kindergarten teachers on the planet. I've pledged to be room mom if Jensen is in her kindergarten class in a couple of years (bribe much?). Belles is very excited to be a big 1st grader...I'm excited that she'll be in school a full day. :)

For our 11 year anniversary, David and I headed out to San Francisco. It's been a good 3 years since our last visit to the city and we both needed to get away for the day. Grandma volunteered babysitting duties- thanks mom! David and I had no plans and just went where ever the mood took us. Although, next time, we agreed, to have a plan. We had lunch at the MOMA (Museum of Modern Art). I ordered the Crab Crepes and David ordered artichoke soup (I think). Doesn't my dish look delish? It was! Of course, we shared our meals. We caught a Georgia O'Keefe and Ansel Adams exhibition. Mostly their very early works. Interesting.

From there we went to the shopping district and window shopped. I can't remember what street this was on. Does it look the same Auntie Em?

And of course, David being a HUGE Formula One racing fan, we hit up the Ferrari Store. The biggest one of it's kind, I was told.

At dusk we hit the beach. I brought my tripod and soo wanted to snap up some shots of us. The lighting was just right, but it was so darn windy and cold!! So much so, that we stayed in the car enjoying our kid free, disruption free conversation. We went to Japantown for dinner...sushi boats!

The 4th of July- excuse me, Independence Day, was spent at Uncle Andrew's house. He barbequed up some salmon and chicken for the grown ups and hot dogs for the kids. Rachael Ray is paying off Andrew! Thumbs up dude.

We met this sweet little guy and his family. Of course I had to whip out my camera! They put on a great little fireworks display for us in the front. Afterward, we ran upstairs to check out fireworks exhibitions in Folsom and Sacramento, and I think maybe Chico, as well as some illegal displays from neighborhoods very close by.

Jensen was the life of the party and being a rugrat, I would expect no less.

Ms. Greta, Uncle Andrew's GF, was there and I had a great time talking with her and the kids had a great time giving her some love.

Sweet Peas...

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Their mom opened the door with a huge smile and gracious warmth. Little bittie came up to me like she'd known me forever. I gave her a big hug and she gave me an even bigger smile. Big sis was a little more cautious, then realized sometime not long ago, she knew me somehow. She came over and gave me a sweet hug. The first time I'd met them, they were beyond excited. This time around was old hat for them.

Big sister took the lead like she'd been in front of the camera her entire life and just played it cool and casual.

Little bittie, I think, was just happy to have me be there.

Yes, I think sunshine just follows her around everywhere!
Thank you for spending your morning with me.

To see more, click here:

A & K from Jennifer Brotchie on Vimeo.

Two Little Ladies Lovely in Pink

2009-06-21T21:44:00.000-07:00

I bumped into them at Barnes & Nobles one morning and BAM! here are their photos, yes!, it quite literally happened like that: BAM! ... I took their photos last year and they invited me back to my delight. Enjoy the sneakie peekie's!

Little wee one...

and her big sister...

and of course, the beautiful mama...

Lindsey & Will

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Lindsey always has a smile on her face and is always up for a laugh. My son adores her to the moon. "Mommy, I miss Ms. Winsey" he says with a sad face and chubby cheeks. She brightens up when she sees my little guy and the exchange is mutual. I know that the little girl she's got in her tummy will brighten up her day every day! One thing I know for sure, this little cutie expected in early August will have the gift of height among many other things. It's the first thing I noticed about Will- his height first and then immediately thereafter how much in love with Lindsey he is. "Are you excited?," I asked him. "I'm soo excited, that's my baby in there," as he rubbed her belly. So sweet. I can't wait to meet her Lindsey!

For high res slideshow click here.

For music video click below:

Lindsey & Will from Jennifer Brotchie on Vimeo.

Baby on board!

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Lindsey has always been a fun-loving, optimistic girl who clearly loves kids. She is sooo excited to be expecting one of her own next month with Will. I'm excited for her and all the exciting changes motherhood will bring to her. Right now, she's at her most radiant (although, she doesn't feel like it, lol). Here's a sneak peek of her maternity, baby on board photo shoot this weekend.

There's that sun flare again, I love when it works with me!

Happy Monday!!

Christine & Jason

2009-06-11T21:00:00.000-07:00

I met Christine a few years ago when her oldest and my middle were in pre-kinder together. I knew who she was because I always noticed the hip cute blonde girl that brought in her son. I always admired how cute she always seemed to dress, even at 9 in the am when I could barely get myself put together with sweats and a t-shirt. Ironically, I got to know her more after our kids were out of pre-kinder and all throughout kinder. The occassional coffee get togethers and pre-k mom's nights out is where I got to know a little more about Christine and solidified that she is indeed a hip cute brunette girl.

I met her youngest when he was in utero and it has been fun to watch him grow.

Her hubs, Jason, is a fire-fighter. He's a big guy who is a big marshmallow around his kids. Thanks J for being a hero because ALL fire-fighters are ABSOLUTE HEROES in my book!

One of my favorite images...the little guy and his expression! Love it!

and how the sun catches on Christine's hair and how their arms frame each other perfectly, so lovely!

I'm a sucker for sun flare and the images they create...

Thank you for spending the afternoon with me Christine and Jason...

To see more of their session, click here