This Country Boy will Survive

What a fun night! I went to the Fairbanks Farm for Joe's senior pics - which coincidentally happens to be the same place that all of my daytime job truckers try to deliver to! For some reason, they just happen to be the same street address, but on complete different sides of the freeway, dang GoogleMaps! Back to Joe...

Showing up at this gorgeous place, I had ideas immediately. The trees are stunning there. It literally was just valleys of red, orange, and yellow. Not to mention support! Joe had an entire audience with him! His grandparents, parents, and sister | not to mention the neighbors! His family is so great, and tons of fun :] We went everywhere in the woods, even in the swamps. Joe was a good sport, and didn't mind my crazy ideas. We took complete advantage of the company, storm damage, and the gorgeous view.

I did learn that he loves to golf, hunt, fish - anything outdoors. OH, and he's team Chevy! We got lots of shots with his truck, clubs, and land. We had lots of laughs and smiles! Did I mention I almost stole his dog? She is so cute - lab/retreiver mix and loves to cuddle, just like my dog! Luckily my sister-in-law wasn't there or she probably would have taken her! :] Just kidding Lori - well sort of.

After a perfect fall night at a beautiful spot, Joe had lots of senior pictures taken! They turned out great and I can't wait for you guys to see them, but here's a warning - there are a lot! Here's a little sample from the shoot! Thanks for the laughs Joe!

Wedded Bliss

After my morning family shoot, my mom and I headed down to Farmington for Karen and Dan's wedding. We were running a little bit late - which I still feel bad for, but we made it and got lots of pictures.

Started out at Rambling River Park in Farmington - had this gorgeous bridge that we got some wedding party (family members) pictures on! Karen and Dan have been together for years and I had the pleasure of meeting and working with Karen at my old job - It Figures! (fitness center) She has such a huge heart and it makes me smile to see just how happy Dan makes her!

They were married in the most unique place! I loved every detail about this place. Of course I can't remember the name, but I think it was the Grand Hall in Farmington. It had windows from the ceiling to the floor and so much character in the wood floor and brick windows. Great place to get married with family and friends watching!

Looking through the pictures, my heart literally melted because I captured some moments where Dan was looking at Karen when she wasn't paying attention - and you could just see how much he adored her. Make me overly anxious to show the pictures to the couple.

Before the dancing started, they had an "open mic" for whoever wanted to sing or play an instrument. Let me just say that there are so many talented people in that family!

Here is just a a itsy teeny weeny look at how the day unfolded. Congrats Karen and Dan!! We're so happy for you!

Messy Saturday

I met up with Kayla, Travis, Tristan, and Haley this morning for a family session at my Aunt-in-law's house! We couldn't have asked for a better day for our pictures. It was just a tad bit cloudy, but sunshine was on it's way! Lots of fun was in the making...

Dawnes house is a perfect spot for pictures! It has fields, barns, and even the occasional catapillar :] We got some family shots done first sitting by the barn (some of my faves!) Then the kids started to do their own thing, which ended up being perfect! I follwed with my camera and caught the expressions! Haley (age 1) started to discover the yard and then had a huge run-in with a large pile of dog crap.

After getting some great shots of the family and then individual shots of them all, it was time for treats!! I had come fully stocked with carmel apples on a stick! Some with peanuts.. some without. Have I mentioned how much I love messy kid faces? I love messy kid faces, they're so awesome! The expressions that kids have whether they like the treat or hate it ... is priceless.

Haley had just turned one and Tristan was turning 5 soon. I brought a cupcake and smash cake for both kids! Tristan wasn't too sure about the cupcake and Haley definitely didn't give 2 seconds of her attention to the smash cake - but smash it she did! With her face? No, with her cute little hiney! Not only did I manage to get her covered in carmel... I got her overalls full of frosting - sorry Kayla! :]

I got some great shots of Kayla and Travis, and both the kiddos - so just because I can ... here is just 1 teaser of this B-E-A-Utiful family :] More to come on my facebook page: Helena Lynne!!

1|2|3 ... and drop it

Tonight I spent the evening with some terrific ladies! We met up for Alyssa's Senior Pictures in Harris.

It honestly was such a great night and I had so much fun with you all! Alyssa brought her BFF and mom along for her final check over in the shots! They did a wonderful job making sure her hair was perfect and her clothes looked great!  :]

So we started out at my favorite barn (thanks for letting us use it Jerry!). I can't say enough how much I love that barn and background!! Never disappointed with how the pictures turn out :] Back to my gorgeous subject! We took some headshots up by the barn.  OF COURSE.. I got pictures with everyone all together, and I didn't pass up the opportunity to have some jumping pictures. Alyssa and her entourage were up for everything I threw at them!

Now, to start off with - the Schwabs are a wonderful family and remind me of my own! So, I was excited to be working with them :] I hadn't met Alyssa before, but she honestly has such a huge heart, hilarious personality, and a smile that makes you smile!

I thought it was so funny when the best friend duo showed me their "1,2,3 ... and drop it". LOVED that. Made me want to start showing them what me and my bestfriends do when we're together! A great team! After we hit up the barn, and then the railroad tracks (with Alyssa's dance costume!), we went to Fish Lake and had some amazing sunset shots by the water. I think one of my favorite pictures was taken there! I have a ton of shots, but decided only to show 1! SOOO.... here's a little look at my Friday evening shoot for Alyssa's Senior Pictures! Drop it girl!

Mr. Cool

Tonight I got to hang out with Shelley, Tyler, and Peyton. I'm not sure I'm spelling her name right, so I apologize if it's wrong!

We met up in Harris at my favorite barn for some senior pictures! Now Tyler will probably agree with me that I took A LOT of pictures. :] Plenty for him to choose from right? We started out with some shots by the barn with an ABSOLUTELY gorgeous fall tree in the background!

Even though Tyler just slighly was showing his real smile - we were able to get the real one out for some pictures! It helped that Shelley, Peyton, and I were all posing how we wanted him to. "Just go like this, and then bend down" haha. As always, I got a picture with everyone that came to the shoot! Mom with her kiddos! :] Even some solo shots of Miss. Peyton!

I kept saying "do this, and just.... be cool" and he was! :] You guys are a great family and fun to hang out with! Good luck Shelley with finding the perfect purse!! ;] I'll have to start keeping up with you if my husband lets me!

Tyler, good luck to you in your future!! I can't wait to see your art work, you're going to be famous I bet! Follow your dream :] Have a wonderful rest of your senior year! Here's your look!

Risky Business

Tonight I met up with Danielle and her family. We took some great Senior shots over in Osceola. Couldn't have asked for an absolutely perfect night with some fun people. The weather wasn't too hot.. and it wasn't too cold - just perfect!

Now I've never been to Osceola before, but I am definitely going back. It is SO cute in that town. It reminds me of how North Branch used to be before it went crazy and started throwing up mini malls and department stores. Quaint and cute | that's how I'll describe it! :] Danielle and her parents were such great company! Relaxed and up for anything and everything! We hiked, we laughed, and we saw gorgeous spots throughout Osceola. A great Monday evening.

On days like today, I'm glad that I decided to wear tennis shoes instead of my usual flip flops. I didn't count, but I'm guessing we went down and up about 100+ steps - not something I would have liked doing in flip flops! Even though I was exhausted just going down the stairs, it was SO worth it once we got to the bottom. There was a gorgeous waterfall! We got some great shots of Danielle almost everywhere! EVEN ending our shoot with her under the waterfall :] I had only hoped she'd be willing to go in the water and when I mentioned it she was all for it! {thank you} for really being up for anything! Even if it meant getting completely soaked with not a single towel for your ride home!

VERY excited for everyone to see the rest of the pictures, so be sure to check out my facebook @ Helena Lynne! Here is just a look at the stunning Miss. Danielle's senior pictures! Until next time, here's your look Danielle!

Royal Sweetheart

I had the pleasure of taking Miss Kallie Grote's senior pictures tonight! She is SUCH a sweetheart!

Kallie, Madame Grote {my High School French Teacher!}, and I met up at Fish Lake to take some gorgeous shots down by the lake. While waiting for them to show up, I came across a smooching couple! I felt a little awkward and kind of little paparazzi-ish. I decided to pretend I didn't see them rolling around in the grass next to me. Back on the subject - Kallie!

I met Kallie a few months ago when I was taking pictures for the Midsummer Candidates. She literally has a contagious smile and I found myself smiling behind the camera as well! She went on to winning one of the three spots for our Midsummer Princesses! So, not only is she a sweetheart - she's royalty!

While walking out to the docks for pictures, we noticed that our spot had been taken over by a man with his dog. We decided to wait and take some shots elsewhere until he left, but he still wasn't gone by the time we started heading over to the dock. He ended up being an extremely nice guy who didn't mind picking up his stuff and moving just for a few minutes. We were able to get some great pictures with Kallie on the dock and in the water!  So.. thank you stranger for being understanding and letting us boot you from your spot!

I felt pretty good about how the pictures were turning out, so we picked up and headed to the next spot - my favorite barn in Harris. Madame Grote had no idea, that when you come to a shoot with me, you'll most likely end up in pictures! I did something a little different, I had both of them draw their face on the chalk board and hold it up. You'll see what I mean in the preview below :] I got some timeless pictures of the mother|daughter duo! I never noticed just how identical you two were until these pictures!

Now, even though Kallie is royal and she's gorgeous.. she's also a all-star! She wanted some pictures in the high school gym with the basketball hoops. Let me just say how crazy it is to be back in the halls of high school! Apparently over the last few years.. a lot has changed! Back on track... I got some great pictures in the gym and am excited for you guys to see them!

If you haven't met Madame Grote or Miss Kallie - I highly suggest it. Both are so kind, funny, and gorgeous - Thanks guy for a super fun night!! C'est la Vie!

Meet the Minick's!

Two of my amazing friends were married this weekend on 9-10-11!

Jen and Nate (Natedog) are two of the most generous and kind friends I have. When things are tough for anyone, they're there to help in any way that they can. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you have ever done for me and my family! They are absolutely perfect for each other and I couldn't be happier or more blessed to have been a part of their big day.

Tressa again was the lead photographer and I just helped out when I could :] I tried to cut back on time by doing shots of details and Jen before Tressa got there so everything could go quicker and smoother for her. First off, Jen was stunning. The dress, the hair, the mood; just breathtaking! Second, it was an absolutely gorgeous day.

The ceremony was emotional, as every wedding I've ever been to is, but there's something about friends' weddings that get me more tearful than others - maybe it's the history I know or even just to see my friends in setting that I know how it feels? Either way, I had a lump in my throat almost the entire ceremony. Well, until I got a glimpse of the flower girl flashing the entire church. H-I-L-A-R-I-O-U-S! Krystal, thank you for her. Jen's niece was rolling around alter lifting her legs above her head and showing her undies to the congregation. It was such an unforgettable moment.

One part of the entire day that I will never forget is the Maid of Honor speech. Lori, it was beautiful and touching in so many ways. I was in tears the entire time, and word for word what you said describes just what a beautiful person Jen is.

Cheers to many years you two lovebirds! I love you guys!

Falling in Taylors Falls

Yesterday late afternoon {Wednesday} Ariana, Christina (mom), and I met up for some Senior Pictures! Couldn't have been any more gorgeous or perfect for an outdoor shoot. The sun was shining, the weather was warm, and the company was great.

I'm glad that I decided to wear my tennis shoes because we were in for a hike! Now, I'm always up for anything on a shoot, but I think I should have previously worked out before this one because it kicked my butt! We jumped on the first trail to head down a windy path with breathtaking views. Through the field and right next to highway 8 we started.

I would say we took advantage of every situation - from climbing down rocks to get some shots by the rock walls to climbing to new heights to reach an old rock building (which was totally worth it). Ariana has the sweetest personality and best style, I wanted to steal all of her clothes and bring them home with me, and my sister would kill for her shoes! Just a stunning senior!

After we climbed what seemed a good half hour (literally maybe 10 minutes) we reached this rock building that had a fireplace in it. Don't ask why it was just in the middle of the woods because I have no answer, but I sure am glad that it was there! We snapped some shots in, around, and even on top of! Sidenote: thanks Christina for the boost! The roof of the building was old wood shingles and was awesome - even though it was extremely hard covering the sunlight on her face, I did it! My abs are yelling at me today, but, again the pictures turned out just how I wanted them to!

On our way back to the car, which honestly still cracks me up, I wanted to take some last shots in the weeds. On my way to the perfect spot... I stepped in what was either dog or horse crap! Well, I didn't just step in it, I totally biffed it! Landing straight on my butt in front of Christina and Ariana AND a car full of people. Well then I laughed it off and told Ariana to be careful that there was crap there! Then she was walking on the pavement and then slipped off the side and wiped out, thank goodness she didn't roll an ankle! So, we fell... in Taylors Falls and laughed it off. (Totally forgot until now, I still have crap on my shoes at home... dang it!)

So here is just a little look at the gorgeous Senior from my Wednesday afternoon session! Thanks again Ariana and good luck with the rest of your senior year! I'll say it again... soak it all in because it goes by fast!

Cousins Rock!

Labor Day 2011 .. I was able to spend the afternoon with my three cousins : Casandra, Caitlin, and Jennifer. Casandra is a Senior, and I was doing her senior pictures! Jennifer is Casandra's mom (my cousin) and Caitlin came along to help me out and hang out! Casandra chose the spot Stone Arch Bridge - AWESOME place! I felt like an idiot that I've driven by it over 100 times and never even stopped to notice just how gorgeous it is. We know that won't be happening again!  
Jennifer reminiced about when she spent her High School years hanging out there... and as she ran into an old friend from HS, we decided to move on and start some pictures :] There were so many different awesome and amazing backgrounds for shots... we disappeared for quite some time! Jennifer couldn't find us for a good 45 minutes -- oops :]

Our first spot,  we're pretty sure someone was living under the steps. There was a blanket, sandwhich, and beer. I guess the 3 more necessary ingredients, hah.

We followed the trail leading us to small parts of the Mississippi - got some great shots! We even went in the water and then quickly out because the water was getting higher and higher within minutes of us standing there! Needless to say - we were in, out, and on our way on dry land.

Have I even mentioned just how gorgeous Casandra is? She's stunning! Needs to be modeling (hint hint Jenny).

After a couple of hours around the Stone Arch Bridge, we called it good and headed back towards the car. It definitely was a fun way to spend Labor Day! As always, here is a tiny look at just what we found along the Mississippi!