Joelle PHOTOGRAPHY

Marci & Troy: Wedding

2011-10-03T02:14:00.000-07:00

“Anyone can be passionate, but it takes real lovers to be silly.” ~ Rose Franken, writer

One thing that I knew from the first moment I met them was Marci and Troy didn’t just know how to be passionate, but silly too. Troy may be the instigator and Marci may try not to give in, but at the end of day, the week, the month, the year; their life time will be filled with not just passion, but laughter.

Marci and Troy: Thank you so much for such a wonderful day! Not only did the weather end up fantastic, but you could not have picked a better oasis to get married at. You both are a joy to be around. There never seems to be a dull moment and I love it! Congratulations!

Here’s to real lovers…

Loved this!! Marci's son's walked her to the beginning of the isle...

and her dad walked her the rest of the way.

Jenn & Will: Wedding

2011-08-20T04:17:00.000-07:00

There always comes a point where you just know. This is it. Where your heart has found it’s home, its safe place, its soul mate. That this is the only person in the world you would like to have “discussions” with, the one you want to wake up next to, the one you want to lean on in hard times and laugh with in happy times. The one who just gets you ((or at least tries to)). You just know.

Jenn and Will know. You could see it in their eyes and in their smile as they looked at one another. There was a comfort and readiness that said, “This is it and I’m ready for forever.”

Jenn and Will: here’s to the start of your forever…

Jenn: You are STUNNING!!

Jenn and Will decided to do a first look... I don't think they'll ever regret it. Just look at how happy this groom is!!

Who needs cake when you have Pie!! ((and ice cream of course))

Jenn & Will: You put so much hard work into your day and it DEFINITELY paid off!! It was gorgeous! I had so much fun with the two of you. I am humbled that you choose me to capture your love and joy on your big day. Have so much fun in Mexico! Relax, soak, be married! You earned it!! Congrats!

Marci & Troy: Engagement

2011-08-18T09:45:00.000-07:00

I can always tell how crazy a guy is about his woman. It’s in his eyes. You can literally see the spark, the look of adoration, the intensity of love behind his eyes when he looks at her. When I see that spark I know he is in head over heels. From the first snap of shutter that look was in Troy’s eyes. I hardly had to give direction and he immediately took Marci into his arms and didn’t let go. The spark is there. He’s in love; she’s a lucky girl.

We had the most beautiful light to capture it all in…

Rebecca & Keenan: Wedding

2011-08-17T22:55:00.000-07:00

“Home is where ever I am with you.”

Sometimes we forget, sometimes we miss it. Sometimes it just takes one person to open our eyes; one love to realize what is truly important. That home isn’t found in a man-made structure, but in a God-woven love of two hearts that were meant for each other. Two hearts meant to carry joys and tragedies, to go through ups and downs, to experience life together as one. Two hearts woven together for eternity always at home in one another…

Today, Rebecca and Keenan found their home.

Enjoy…

Every little detail was beautifully thought out... I was swooning!!!

The first look... Perfectly Intimate...

My ABSOLUTE most favorite picture of the day! {{Below}}

Their Sign-in table... Yes, you should love it.

Rebecca & Keenan: Thank you both so much for sharing your day with me. For letting me capture your love, your story; the beginning of a new chapter in your life! It was such an honor! Your day was perfect in EVERY way! The detail was amazing and you ended up with the most perfect day to have it. I am so happy for you. Enjoy and soak in your love for one another. Many blessings on you both!

Jazmine & Jessee: Wedding

2011-07-30T00:29:00.000-07:00

Her sister stood up before her family and friends reminiscing of days when they were young. Of memories that would never fade, of the times that sisters, who are now friends, can sit and laugh at. “While only a year ago Jazmine moved to Washington with her son, ‘a family of two’,” she said, “today you become a family of five.” There could not be more joy in her words.

It was as if, under her breath, you could hear her thanks to God for an answered prayer. That Jazmine wouldn’t just find the man of her dreams, but would find the one that loved the Lord with all his heart and one that would be worthy of her dear sister. Yes, you could hear the thanks and see it in her smile as she looked at Jessee. He was the one worthy of Jazmine, and Jazmine the one worthy of him. Their search had come to an end only to start a new beginning. For today, God made them a family of five.

Jazmine and Jessee: What an honor it has been to journey down this road with you, to be there for your wedding day and to be able capture the joy and the tears. God has truly brought together two beautiful people and I know you will have many years of happiness ahead of you. Congrats!

As usual, just a few of my favorites from their big day!

I absolutely fell in LOVE with Jazmine's Wedding dress that she found at a Vintage shop!

First Look... My favorite ;)

A picture of the first dance is always a nice note to end on.

Breck & Kylan: Wedding

2011-07-03T01:01:00.000-07:00

Never could either of their parents have imagined that a move for a new job would bring their families together forever… but it did. The job was at a summer camp called Camp Crestview in Oregon. It was there that they fell in love and it was there that they got married. The funny thing is that people say all the time “summer romances don’t last”, but Breck and Ky’s did. It didn’t end, it persevered. ‘Cause that’s what love does, it conquers all.

Breck and Ky: You both are amazing people all on your own and I know together you will be a force to be reckoned with. Thank you SO MUCH for letting me be a part of your beautiful day! I wish you both many years of love and joy. I believe you both are meant for great things and I know will achieve all of them, together.

Summer Lovin’, sometimes it’s meant to last…

As always my favorite part of the day... The First Look

Breck and Ky gave us plenty of time to get some amazing pictures... 2 full hours just with them! When I heard this I knew I was gonna be in heaven.

Happy Fourth of July Everyone!

Chandra & Andrew: Wedding

2011-06-27T21:23:00.000-07:00

How many of us remember our first kiss with our loved one? What if you could have that moment captured forever? And not just that one moment... but everything leading up to that moment? The knots from the excitement, anticipation, and nervousness welling up inside. Then afterward, the feeling of walking on clouds, the high of emotions taking over the brain's pleasure center and a complete understanding of what it means to be 'twitterpated'! All of it... captured.

That's what Chandra and Andrew had on their wedding day. A day full of excitement and emotion that poured out in overwhelming smiles, bursts of laughter, and shrieks of pure joy. Today was their day, the beginning of a new step in life and a new journey in their love for one another. They had waited patiently for this day and they will forever remember it, every moment, every emotion, and every kiss; including their first one.

To Chandra and Andrew: Thank you for letting me a part of your day. Your passion and love for one another was a joy and privilege to capture. The excitement of your day was one that was special and rare and it added to make some amazing memories! You two are very blessed to have one another. Congrats!

Of course my favorite moment! The first look... and I just LOVE Chandra's reaction!

When Chandra came up behind Andrew she put her right hand in his right hand to turn him around. It was a sweet moment.

This girl was none stop smiling all day...

And of course the first kiss... Andrew you are a lucky man ;)

We met up after the ceremony for a few quick romantic shots... of them kissing...of course! :)

Their emotion and passion was intense and I loved EVERY MOMENT!

Jenn & Will: Engagement

2011-05-22T22:44:00.000-07:00

We need other people to balance us out, to make us complete, to make us better. We don’t always know exactly what we need; sometimes we think we do and come to realize we’re wrong. But when we find them, that one right person, the one who makes us better, we hold on tight and don’t let it go.

Jenn and Will are two amazing people on their own. Jenn’s the one ready for adventure, to get out and conquer the world. Will is more laid back, easy going, a chill kind of guy. They make each other laugh and push each other to be better people. Jenn brings the party and Will brings the balance, together they have found that one right person and they are better people because of it. They know how to enjoy life, take on the world, and chill all in one day… together ;)

Jenn and Will: I am beyond excited for your Wedding in August! It was so great to spend the afternoon with the two of you and get to know you better. I know your wedding is going to be amazing! I just wouldn’t expect anything less ;) Enjoy your engagement photos and I will be seeing you soon!

Dear Northwest,

thank you for a wonderfully fabulous, sunny spring day! You don't tend to grant to many of those...

If you are gonna have your session near water, you better believe I'm gonna ask you to get in ;) These are probably some of my favorite from our afternoon. Of course Jenn and Will were completely amazing for going along with it. You guys rock my world.

Deema & Jeff: Wedding

2011-04-09T00:55:00.000-07:00

I’ve noticed that when little girls dream, they dream big. Nothing stands in their way. They can have it all and the sky is not the limit, it’s just the beginning. They dream of being a princess in one of those big elaborate gowns and living in a castle so tall that it touches the sky. Most importantly (after the dress of course ;) ) their dream always includes the perfect strong and handsome prince. They dream that he wouldn’t just be strong and handsome, but also kind, tender-hearted and willing to do anything to make her happy. Little girls dream, and sometimes because of how life is, those dreams can be shattered, but sometimes dreams do come true.

For Deema, she is one of those little girls that got her dream and so much more. I can’t even begin to describe to you the delight, joy, and absolute sold-out love that Jeff held in his eyes when he saw her for the first time. From that moment on his eyes held that love and adoration for her throughout the day and into the night. Dreams do come true, just ask Deema: she got a man who is willing to do anything to make her happy.

Jeff and Deema: WOW! What a completely gorgeous and wonderful day you had! Thank you so much for letting me be a part of it and sharing in your joy. It was a pleasure to capture your love… you two made it all too easy for me ;)

When your daughter looks that GORGEOUS how can you not have this reaction?

The first look ALWAYS brings out the best moments, and of course the best hugs ;)

Jeff you have a great laugh and I'm sure Deema would agree.

Jazmine & Jessee: Engaged

2011-03-27T13:39:00.000-07:00

I believe in a God of second chances. A God who restores, renews, and makes a way when there is none. I believe that sometimes things don’t always work out the way you thought they would and, sometimes, they work out even better than you could have ever imagined. Because that is the kind of God I serve. One that knows exactly what he is doing even when life doesn’t make sense to us. Who wants you to know what love is and give you someone to show that love to. This is what he desires and this is what he has given Jazmine and Jessee. These two have an amazing story and I think the best part of that story is seeing the amazing, overwhelming, love of God working in the midst of it. Stitching things together so that they could end up in each others’ arms. Yes, this is the kind of God I serve, the one who writes love stories with a smile on his face.

I am so excited to share with you Jazmine and Jessee’s engagement session. We had such a great time and I cannot wait for their wedding in July!

How To Feel MISERABLE As An Artist

2011-02-24T22:52:00.000-08:00

1. Constantly compare yourself to other artists.
2. Talk to your family about what you do and expect them to cheer you on.
3. Base your success of your entire career on one project.
4. Stick with what you know.
5. Undervalue your expertise.
6. Let money dictate what you do.
7. Bow to societal pressures.
8. Only do work that your family would love.
9. Do whatever the client/customer/gallery owner/patron/investor asks.
10. Set unachievable overwhelming goals to be accomplished by tomorrow.

Ok, I admit it, I stole this post. There now it's out. This is NOT Original. Haha. But I needed to post this because I need the reminder. So thank you Promise Tangeman for this post. If you haven't heard of her shame on you and go check out her stuff @ promisetangemanblog.com.

I am all to guilty of DEFINITELY 1, 3, 4, 5, and 10. Gez I feel like that's a lot? Please do share yours and don't leave me hangin' :)

WOW Jo! Where have you been??

2011-02-21T22:59:00.000-08:00

You know I would like to know the answer to that too! It's been a CRAZY couple of months! As with all posts I think pictures just make it that much better so here are some visual aids to help me share...

Taken with my ipod touch: See that itty bitty bridge in the background?? That's the Golden Gate. Yes, My hubby and I went to San Francisco to visit my brother and sister-in-law. The wind was blowing in the pic so that's why my bangs look all weird. We ate, we saw Alcatraz, we ate, we went hiking, we ate, did a little shopping, we ate... see a pattern forming here? Oh and did I mention it was 60 degrees and sunny in mid January?! It was a good vacation :)

I've been doing some business planning, re-branding myself, and working on my website!! That's my Chai kitty (AKA Chai-ster) and her beloved rope that she carries all around the house. She's completely obsessed with it for some reason and thinks it's a MUST HAVE to be included right in the middle of my inspiration board. {{{SIGH}}} So be sure to check back soon for the official launch of my website 'cause I am REALLY EXCITED about it!! Hopefully it will be soon :)

I was sick a couple weekends ago and it was not fun! When I started to feel a little better I met my friend Maggie at Yoga Pearl in downtown Portland (which also has this fabulous cafe with vegan food) NOTE: Im not vegan but I enjoy pretending sometimes ;) and ordered a wellness toddy (the non-alcohol kind) cause, well, it said wellness and I thought that should help. Oh man did it help! I will spare you details, but it irritated whatever icky, slimmy, goey gunk that decided to set up house in my head so much so that it decided it was time to move on out. So while there were some not so great few moments, there was much rejoicing when it was all over with and I could breathe again. I hate being sick.

I've been enjoying some much needed down time!! I've been catching up on Bones and am really enjoying it. It helps to have something to watch while I wait for the next episode of Fringe each week. Isn't Netflix the BEST?!

All that to say: the plan is to catch up on some blogging, add some fun new topics, and to blog at least once a week. So check back soon, and you guys should help hold me accountable ;) And since I missed all the holidays Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and Happy Valentines Day :) Be Blessed!

Brian: Senior 2011

2010-12-06T17:06:00.000-08:00

I absolutely loved this senior session! Brian really wanted some unique photos and I love it when a client is looking for something fresh and unique AND is open to your suggestions! That pretty much puts me in my happy place. Brian has plans to go Portland State next year and do their study abroad, which might I add I am just a little bit jealous of…but only a little bit ;)

Brian: Thanks so much for going with the flow and being open to trying out new things! I know you are going to have the time of your life in college. Just remember to come back home and visit your mom every once in awhile. J You are an amazing steadfast young man and I know God is going to use you to do great things, even overseas!

As usual it was hard to pick just few! So here are a little more than a few of my favorites from the session ;)

So with the time change and all we didn't have much light left by the time we got to Washington Park... so I improvised...that's just what professionals do :) And I have to say these are probably some of my most favorites.

Justin: Senior 2011

2010-11-03T11:34:00.000-07:00

Rainy, cold, and cloudy. Yep, that pretty much sums up what the weather gave me for Justin's Senior Portrait Session. That didn't stop us though. Despite being extremely cold Justin was a trooper and we were still able to pull off some awesome shots! Justin has plans to go into the military after high school and I have to say I am so thankful for people like him who are willing to dedicate themselves for our safety and to defend our freedom.

Justin: Thank you for such a great session! Despite the rain and cold, I had a great time getting to know you and your mom. Good luck with the rest of your football season and your last year of high school! I know you'll strong!

It was hard to pick just a few, but here are some of my favs...

Wenatchee Wedding: Adelae & Nick

2010-10-23T01:37:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful day at the most perfect place. Her hair was done just right, make up perfectly set to add that extra, sweet, girly drama that every Bride cannot live without. Tears were shed when she first saw the reception hall. "It's exactly how I imagined it" left her lips. She walked up behind him; nervous, yet confident, and as he turned to take in her beauty someone in heaven was saying, "It's exactly how I imagined it." It had all finally come together... PERFECTLY.

Adelae & Nick: Thank you for letting me spend such a wonderful and beautiful day with you! I was so blessed by the generosity of your families and enjoyed every second of capturing your day. What a beautiful and perfectly matched couple you are! Congrats!

Best find of the day? The orchard across the street...

The church was perfectly set right in front of Saddle Rock. Again the day was pure perfection...

Rob & Bethany: Wedding

2010-10-14T00:21:00.000-07:00

Perfect timing. That’s what life is all about; or at least what true love is all about. Bethany had “known” about Rob for a while (as in a few years). Someone she had gone on a missions trip with informed her that they had a guy she “had” to meet. But again… perfect timing… it’s everything. A few years later they finally met; and, well, the rest is history. I think my favorite part about their story is how many people they both knew; yet they never got together until just the right time when they were ready for each other.

Rob & Bethany: You two are such a great match! I am so happy that I got to share your day with you and experience such a wonderful occasion of God working in his perfect timing to bring you together. I am honored and blessed that you chose me to capture your love.

The First Look: Always my FAVORITE moment!

Forecast for the day: rain, rain AND more rain. Do you see that BEAUTIFUL sky?? Yep, somebody up there answers prayers ;)

Julia & Christoper: Wedding

2010-10-08T09:02:00.000-07:00

Julia was probably one of the most calm brides I have EVER seen! While the hustle and bustle of getting last minute details in place was happening around her she remained inside her bubble of complete and utter happiness. Never once did I see it pop. Her thoughts were no longer of details of her wedding day, but rather on the man of her dreams. This was her day where she would start a new beginning with the man she had known all her life. This was the first day of the rest of her life and no one was going to take that away from her.

Julia & Christopher: Thank you so much for letting me be a part of your wonderful day! I had such a great time with both of you and your family! What a joy and blessing it was to hear your story of growing up together and realize that you two truly do get to spend your entire lives together! Here's to a true lifetime of love and happiness!

I just want to say we ended up with the BEST weather to get some awesome shots!

Lori & Rob: Engaged

2010-10-06T15:11:00.000-07:00

There once was a girl who longed to have a best friend. So she started to pray and ask God to send her one. But not just any best friend. She wanted that “kindred Spirit “as Anne of Green Gables would put it. It had to be someone who loved God, who laughed and was silly like she was, who knew what she was thinking without her having to say it. Someone who could be a safe place for her, whom she could tell anything to. So she prayed.

Little did she know there was another little girl in her very same school who was also praying for a best friend. In fact they had gone to same school all their lives and never met. It wasn’t until their seventh grade year (one year later from when they started to pray) that they both ended up in the same class.

That’s when I met Lori.

We didn’t have this AMAZING AHA moment that we were going to be best friends. It was more like we just fell in sync with each other and never fell out. Honestly I don’t know what I would have done without her, I’m just glad that God answered our prayers ‘cause no one understands me like her. I am so glad she has found a man like Rob ‘cause I just couldn’t part with her for anyone less worthy.

And Rob: you are worthy. You’re the guy I always wanted for my best friend. Someone I can trust who will take care of her when I can’t be there and will challenge her to be a better woman, wife, mother, and lover of Jesus. She is blessed to have you. And I cannot wait for your wedding this Saturday!

Natasha & Jordan: Wedding

2010-09-24T10:14:00.000-07:00

NERVES. They are always high on a wedding day. It never fails: the groom will pace around, sit down, get back up, check his watch, pace around some more all in the hope that it will make the time go faster. The bride on other hand usually has her mental checklist that she is going over and over hoping that everything falls into place. Nerves are what make the day so exciting.

I get to witness this at every wedding I do and I get to witness it all melt away when they see each other for the first time.

It’s in that moment that nothing else matters and the nerves are calmed. The sky could fall, and they wouldn’t even notice. Or at least Natasha and Jordan wouldn’t have. In fact if I have to remind my clients I'm there, then I know I'm getting some AMAZING shots.

Natasha and Jordan: Thank you for letting me be a part of your day. I am so happy that two beautiful people (inside and out) have found each other. What an honor it was to capture your love. Thank you for the privilege.

Now for some Amazingness!

The Spencer Kids: Family Session

2010-09-22T11:12:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun the other day spending time with the Spencer kids during their portrait session. Kids are always so much fun to photograph for me and I just love it that they want to play and be themselves. For some reason it’s always harder to get grown ups to do that J But kids they’re just natural at it and that’s what I love to capture.

Brianna: Thank you for allowing me to spend time with you and your children. They are such a wonderful blessing and I enjoyed every moment of it!

I absolutely, 100% adore this picture! It just doesn't get more real than this! :)

Erikka: Senior 2011

2010-08-27T13:20:00.000-07:00

Fun, Genuine, Smart, Most Likely To Suceed, these are just a few words that I would use to describe Erikka. I had the pleasure of spending the evening with her and got some killer shots to capture that unique beautiful person she is before she tackles her last year of High School. We had such a blast together and I am so excited for her next season in life!

Erikka: You have such a great passion and love for life and people. It is so evident and shines through who you are. It's what draws people to you and makes you such a fun person to be around. Go out there and take the world by storm. I know you are destined for great things! Thanks so much for such a fun photo shoot!

Can I just say I am envious of her hair? I could never ever be able pull it off! And she does it so well...

Jamee & Jeff: Wedding

2010-08-25T11:01:00.000-07:00

A fairy tale in the making... that's what this wedding was all about. Jamee was the beautiful princess who dreamt of one day meeting her shining white knight and Jeff fit the bill perfectly. They met on a hike at Beacon Rock where Jeff later proposed to her, so it just made sense that the perfect setting for their fairy tale wedding would take place over looking Beacon Rock. Their wedding held high emotion, tears , laughter, but also a sense of healing and the fulfillment of a promise that God made to them both. I don't think anyone there could think of two people more deserving or better fit for each other. Jamee and Jeff are truly a match made in heaven, a fairy tale finally come to fruition.

Jamee and Jeff, it meant so much to me that you asked me to be a part of your day. I could not be happier for you both and I know that God's promises and your fairy tale does not stop here, but will last a life time. Congratulations to you both!

And now for some yummy shots! ;)

Jamee waiting for her knight ;)

The "first look" always, ALWAYS results in the most amazing photos! I highly recommend it. :D

And they rode off on a beautiful white horse and lived happily ever after... or maybe more like drove off in a brand new white Mustang... same thing right?

The Jespersens: Family

2010-08-02T11:06:00.000-07:00

Like I said before I was honored to have Melissa contact me to shoot her grandparents 70th Anniversary and I was excited to hear that they wanted more shots of their two beautiful girls; who I had the pleasure of photographing back in September. So after the Anniversary party we found some space outside to take the girls and get a few shots.

Melissa picked out the cutest little outfits for them!

Probably one of my favorites. And no, no one helped her. She came up with this style all on her own ;)

Hugh&Norma: 70th Anniversary

2010-08-02T10:52:00.000-07:00

I felt really honored when Melissa (I photographed her beautiful family back in September) contacted me about doing photography for her grandparents 70th Anniversary Party. Kevin and I had to stop and figure out how long we would have to live if we wanted to make it to our 70th Anniversary... I would have to live till I was 92 and him 91... it really put things in perspective. Marriage is the most beautiful, hard, and rewarding decision that any two people can make. To have your best friend beside you for 70 years, to share your joys, hurts, short comings, achievements with is something to be treasured. Something to rejoice about and to be held in high esteem and honor. I am so thankful that I was able to be a part of this celebration.

To Hugh and Norma: Happy 70th Anniversary and thank you for being an example to your family and people around you that marriages can and do last.

The lovely Hugh and Norma:

This little guy was so stinkin' cute!

The Webbs: Family

2010-07-21T21:26:00.000-07:00

What can I say? I just love this family and I think I was doubled over laughing during this session more than they were! Andrea was one of my Youth leaders back in the day and it was so much fun to reconnect with her. Andrea’s husband, Sam, is probably one the funniest people I’ve ever met, and then adding Andrea into the mix…completely hysterical!

Andrea and Sam, when I need a good laugh I will be sure to give you a call J. Honestly though, thank you so much for letting me capture your wonderful family! You two are very blessed with your beautiful girls and you are doing a great job with them!

So here are some of my favs caught in between the laughter…

I loved it that Sam and his girls all wore converse!

Remember when I said this family is hilarious? Exhibit A:

Madison: Family

2010-04-09T12:57:00.000-07:00

Ok I cannot believe how fortunate we have been lately with this amazing weather! I met Madison and her family down at Esther Short Park for a session and we had a blast! Being just a little over 18 months old Madison had a lot of energy and a desire to see and conquer the world! So that’s exactly what we did.

Here are a few of my favs from our adventure…

Erin & Coby: Wedding

2010-04-09T12:09:00.000-07:00

Photographers feed off emotion. It’s what we live for. So of course weddings are the highlight of what we do because let’s face it, the emotions tend to run wild. Sometimes in a bad way, but to be honest I have been blessed with working with some AMAZING couples and consider myself fortunate for not having to deal with the bad yet. Tears of joy, smiles, laughter, those long gazes into each other’s eyes, passion, yep that’s what I get to work with and I LOVE it! So of course Erin and Coby brought their A-Game and I just froze the emotion in time. It’s what I do best.

For those of you who do not live in the Northwest let me tell you a little secret. If you plan a wedding in March there’s a 99.9% chance that it will rain. God was definitely showing his blessing for these two because we didn’t just get sun, it felt like a beautiful summer day! Or maybe that was just cause I hadn’t seen the sun for so long…

Erin and Coby your day could not have been more perfect! I am so excited for you guys in your journey ahead and wish you all the happiness and love that God can bestow upon you!

With the awesome weather we got some amazing shots of Erin and Coby. What made it even better was their desire to do a First Look before the wedding. Brides if you want GREAT shots with your groom this is definitely the way to do it!

Breck: Senior 2010

2010-01-06T21:18:00.000-08:00

I honestly sat here a while trying to figure something witty or sentimental so say. Then of course the thought came to me, "Johanna," my thought said, " you know most people probably don't even read your blog anyway. They just come to see the photos." That's when I decided I just need to let Breck's photos speak for themselves.

I just hope they tell you how beautiful she is inside and out. That she has a heart to serve which makes her an incredible leader and that she will touch and change other people's lives just by being around them. Because of her strength in knowing who she is and above all her love for Christ.

So photo's: speak...

Happy NEW YEAR!

2010-01-04T00:25:00.000-08:00

Another year, another day, another hour, another chance to start anew and make some changes! So in light of that my blog will be under construction for a bit while I am changing things around and ultimately making it bigger and better! So thanks to everyone for being patient and I hope to finally get the rest of my 2009 posts up soon!

Here's a little preview... ;)

Michelle & Tyler: Wedding

2009-12-15T11:21:00.000-08:00

One thing I love about weddings is how unique each one is. Styles… personalities… love… all so different in their own way and I get to experience it all. I LOVE what I do!

Michelle and Tyler are no exception to the rule. I had a blast with them and they were so easy to work with, so trusting and open to my ideas. Pretty much they were a photographers dream. They got married at McMenamins Cornelius Pass Roadhouse in the coolest looking barn I have ever seen. Where does McMenamins find these places?

Michelle and Tyler thank you so much for letting me a part of your special day. It was a pleasure to witness and see how God has brought you together. I pray that He would bless you as your love for each other grows more each day. Which it will ;)

On to the photos…

Dorothy: Senior 2010

2009-10-29T21:26:00.000-07:00

Dori really went above and beyond for our photo shoot. Seeing as how she doesn’t usually wear a skirt or dress I give her a BIG thumbs up for being willing to do so. Plus she has these marvelous blue eyes that I just envy... [[[sigh]]]... and I think her hair does too. It kept falling down trying to get up close and personal ;) So the most patient award for waiting and allowing me to fuss with her hair before getting the right shot goes to Dori. All I have to say is we had a lot of fun and got some great shots.

Here are some of my favs of those gorgeous blue eyes…

Brianna:Senior 2010

2009-10-23T22:06:00.000-07:00

So I had the magnificent challenge of doing two Senior sessions at the same time! Enter Brianna and Dorothy. Bri and Dori are sisters who are both graduating this year and it was easier with everyone's busy schedule to get their pictures done together. They both brought their own style and beauty to the table. So I just sat down and had a feast! Yikes…. I’m starting to sound like a Wild Thing ;) Bri’s pictures were due at school before Dori’s so I put my focus on getting hers done first. (Dori’s are almost done. Check back soon!)

When we first started Bri was giving some killer (as in awesome, good, amazing ;) straight face looks along with some super cute closed smiles. I asked Bri if she smiles with her mouth open at all and she replied, "no". So of course, me being me, I got her to crack a wide smile a couple of times. Bri, YOUR SMILE IS JUST GORGEOUS!! So honey, let those pearly whites shine ;D

The Jespersens: Family Session

2009-09-25T10:29:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of meeting Cory and Melissa through Jessica McGrew who’s wedding I shot back in June. They have two adorable twins, Lexine and Paige who are four months old now and wanted to get some Family shots done. We met up down at Lewisville Park and had a blast trying to get the girls to smile and look at the camera. Lexine was not to keen on the idea at first but toward the end she showed the camera some love ;)

There is just something about making a baby smile that makes you powerless to do anything else but smile along with them.

Just see for yourself…

Thank you Cory and Melissa for allowing to capture your beautiful family!

Melanie Guild: Senior

2009-09-23T21:57:00.000-07:00

Dear Tyra Banks,

I have officially found America’s Next Top Model. No really I am being serious. She’s 6’0, drop dead gorgeous and even smiles with her eyes! No need for instruction she comes up with all her own poses and tends to take charge of her photo shoot.

So really just cancel next season and announce the winner: Melanie Guild.

Trust me you won’t be sorry.

If you don’t believe me check out some of these photos for yourself…

Sincerely,

Johanna Perales

Discoverer and 1^st photographer for Melanie Guild A.K.A. Super Model.

Jessie & Ryan: Wedding

2009-09-13T20:46:00.000-07:00

One thing I love about Jessie is she always smells…really good! (Scared you for a second there didn’t I?) And when asked, “What are you wearing?” She will reply, “Rosemary.” I think it’s one of her not so secret obsessions. So when it came time to decorate for the wedding it only made sense to have rosemary everywhere, and yes it smelled good ;)

It was once believed that if the bride wore a wreath of Rosemary on her head during the ceremony the vows would not be forgotten. But on this day a silly folklore would not be needed. This was a day that Jessie and Ryan had been looking forward to for months. As they stood before friends and family exchanging their vows through tears and laughter two lives merged to forever continue down the same path… till death do they part.

Jessie and Ryan thank you so much for letting me capture your wedding day! It was beautiful and elegant, reflecting everything that embodies who you are as a couple. Congratulations!

Now it’s time to share some pics!

The many faces of sisters...

I absolutely loved it that Jessie and Ryan ran down the isle... I mean who doesn't want to do that right after they get married??

I think this is probably one of my favorites.

Heather & Casey: Wedding

2009-08-13T11:33:00.000-07:00

Whenever I think of this wedding one word comes to mind, FUN! From the moment Heather and Casey first saw each other til the moment they left through the sea of spirit fingers, their smiles could not be whipped from their faces. And when the bride and groom are having that much fun, it tends to infect the day and NO ONE can withstand the fun bug. Wow I am really corny ;). Honestly though when you play MC Hammer’s “U Can’t Touch This” to the groom retrieving the garter who wouldn’t have fun?!

Heather and Casey your wedding day truly reflected your personalities, and when you have achieved that I say your celebration was a success and testament of how your life together will be; never-ending fun J. Thank you so much for letting me be a part of your day.

So I may have gone a little overboard on how many pictures I posted, but I had such a hard time picking a few I finally gave up!

So here are more than a few of my favs…

Casey waiting for his bride...

I love his expression when he first saw her.

I love this series of photos... Heather cracks me up! Casey looks all to comfortable in the first maybe that's why Heather reacts the way she does... ;)

I caught this of Pastor Luke right before the ceremony.

I love this! All the groomsman wore red converse, even the ring bearer.

My absolute favorite shot of the day...

Jessie & Ryan: Engagment

2009-07-12T22:34:00.000-07:00

I’ve known Jessie for a very long time…ok scratch that. Maybe more like known OF her for a very long time. We honestly never had the chance to really connect, but within the past few months of getting to know her through coffee dates and hanging out at Whole Foods, I have gained a very special friend. She is a woman of true beauty and has found a man that not only sees it, but has this amazing ability to bring it out to show the world. Their love is truly one to admire.

One of my favorite things on a photo shoot is interacting with the couples. Once I figure out what makes them tick and, most importantly, laugh I’m set. For me that’s when the fun really starts. For Jessie and Ryan all it took was three little words…

Just Be Yourselves

That’s it! So this couple isn’t about dilly dally’in on having fun or getting to the good stuff. “Just Be Yourselves” was all it took.

And this is what they gave me….

Jessica & Doug: Wedding

2009-06-26T12:58:00.000-07:00

Everything was in it’s place. The train of the dress, the pearls in her ears, every speck of glitter and glamour was just right. The anticipation was high and from the moment he turned his eyes dazzled in her perfection. In that moment the nerves subsided and yielded to their love. It was a perfect moment on a perfect day… their day.

This was wedding was amazing and such a joy to be a part of! Jessica was probably one of the most calm and prepared brides I have ever seen! We were able to stick to the schedule and I am still in awe of it! Jessica and Doug thank you so much for allowing me to a part of your day and witness your love for one another. You are a special couple and I am so excited to see all the great plans that God has for the both of you!

I love their expressions in the these two pictures especially Jessica's in the second one ;D

At the reception they had chocolate covered strawberries set out just for the wedding party.... I loved it!

Jessica thought about every little detail, even the foot accessories! She traded off from foot Jewelry to designer flip flops after the ceremony.

This first look was such a special moment! I encourage all of my brides to do this! You get all the pics out the way before the wedding even starts and it adds a special moment to your day that you wouldn't get other wise.

Ryan Perales

2009-06-11T21:19:00.000-07:00

Growing up I always wished I had a younger sibling. Ok, that was a lie. To be completely honest I LOVED being the youngest, but that is beside the point. ;) The point is when I married Kevin I got two things I never had growing up. 1. A sister and 2. A younger brother and I wouldn’t trade them for anything. I actually kind of wish they were my younger brother and sister growing up cause I’ve found that they were the angels of the family, while Kevin was the one tormenting them. Either that or they are incredibly sly and have some kind of weird hold over Kevin that doesn’t allow him to deny any of their horrible stories of being mistreated by him...oh the power of twins. Yes, they are twins.
So I figured it was time to get Ryan in front of the camera to start his male modeling career. Despite his hitting and name calling I still managed to push him in front of the camera and catch a few shots ;P What are big sisters for right? Ok, again a lie. In reality, I have to say, he was better than Zoolander himself and completely comfortable. So thanks bro! You are a natural!

Here are a few of my favs…

Of course we just couldn't do a male model shoot without Magnum!

Make sure to leave a comment by clicking on the word “comment” back at the top and let Ryan know how ridiculously good looking he is. ;D Also you may have noticed I used a new "tag" on my photos. I'm playing around with new designs for Joelle Photography, so let me know what you think!

Jessica + Doug = Engaged!

2009-04-17T01:14:00.000-07:00

Jessica has been one of my best friends for a long time. We’ve been through a lot together and I am so thankful that God brought her into my life. She was the breath of fresh air that I needed and a friend who I can be completely serious with one moment and then completely off the wall the next. I just cannot express how much I love her and hold her dear to my heart!

Ok, now I have to be honest. When it comes to my friends I am EXTREMELY protective! Especially when it comes to the guys they introduce me to. I’m the friend that from the moment I meet the guy I am sizing him up to see if he really is good enough because let’s face it, I have some pretty amazing friends and they deserve a pretty OUTSTANDING guy!

So Doug I admit it I sized you up… and you passed with flying colors!! You compliment Jess so well and I really could not have picked a better guy for her. I am excited that Jessica has found such an outstanding guy cause well, that is just what she deserves!

This photo shoot was such a blast! From making weird noises to make them laugh, to falling on my butt cause I knew it just needed a good ol’ grass stain, there just wasn’t a dull moment.

Here are some of my favorites from our day…

Jessica and Doug,

Thank you for such an awesome day! I'm so excited for wedding. It's going to be beautiful!

Spring Time

2009-04-11T22:22:00.000-07:00

It’s been quite the change moving from California back up to Washington. I’ve run into a few surprises and culture shock moments that I didn’t expect. Like remembering why you can’t wear high heels all the time, or having to plan extra time in your morning routine to scrap the ice off your car. My ultimate favorite though, is how SLOW everyone drives! I guess I’ve grown accustomed to LA drivers. So much so that I miss them ;)

But I’ve also realized that the Northwest has something that LA definitely doesn’t. Seasons! I find myself getting giddy seeing the trees come to life again and waking up to find the yard filled with daffodils. This magical change just doesn’t happen every day so this morning I woke up and decided that it needed some documentation. That way I can remember the moment that I feel in love with the Northwest all over again.

Of course Spring just wouldn't be Spring without Cherry Blossoms.

I had the privilege of taking Jessica and Doug’s Engagement photos last Sunday and we had a blast! We got some awesome shots and I hope to get them up here in the next couple of days. So check back soon!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

2007-11-22T14:08:00.001-08:00

This will be my first thanksgiving as a married woman!! But that doesn't mean that I am cooking...oh no... I don't know think I am at the point yet that I want to try to cook a thanksgiving dinner when I still burn the cookies! LOL But I am so thankful that there are people on this earth that God has blessed with a cooking talent. Because of them many people in America (including me!) will be stuffing themselves senseless today. Yes, I am proud to be an American! So my husband and I will be having Thanksgiving at our friend's, Justin and Beth's home who have so graciously invited us over and even told us we didn't have to bring anything! Except I am bringing apple pie and ice cream for dessert! YUM! So to everyone out there enjoying a beautiful meal today, HAPPY Thanksgiving!

PS I am so thankful to have such good friends, and a wonderful husband!

The Joy of Marriage

2007-11-11T16:09:00.001-08:00

The nice thing about marriage is that when you get the sudden urge to take pictures of someone, your spouse is always there. Now they may fight you on it, scream and pull out the claws, but in the end, as most women know, we get our way ;) Honestly though, my husband was gracious and kind enough to let me drag him around San Dimas Canyon Park to get some photos. He is such a good sport!

I am proud to introduce to you my lovely husband, of four months, Ladies and Gentlemen... Mr. Kevin Perales!!

It's Starting!

2007-10-26T09:52:00.000-07:00

This is my very first post! I am greatly excited about starting up my new business and I hope this will be a great avenue for people to see my work, become inspired themselves, and get to know who Johanna Perales is! It's the start of a great adventure that I am excited embark upon!