Mindy Leigh Photography: December 2009

December 24, 2009

Deck the Halls!

I stepped just outside our front door to snap this photo of the
snow-covered holly this morning.

I love this time of year, celebrating Christmas with family and friends. We have a few family parties, two of which we are hosting at our home, and of course we still have preparing to do. We even have a gift or two left to buy, but I'll leave that to my husband who is willing to shop on Christmas Eve!

This morning though, I'm trying not to think about all the things on our to-do list for the next 48 hours. We're blessed with two children who have made Christmas more magical than I ever remember. I look out the window and see our friendly neighborhood blanketed in white, and I am sitting in a warm, happy home with a cup of coffee and can't think of a single thing I need, other than a break from all the hustle and time to reflect on a wonderful year.

I still have not totally processed what an awesome year this was - I think I will save that for later! It wasn't perfect. I did some things right, and I did some things wrong, but I learned so much. I was honored to photograph so many special people, kids, new babies, soon-to-be graduates, couples at the beginning of their journey together, and couples who have already been through so much. I met other photographers and made new friendships I truly value. I never would have guessed that my first full year would be so busy, and there is already so much on the horizon for 2010! From the bottom of my heart, I am thankful to everyone who hired me, and those who taught, listened, gave support, shared ups and downs, second shot, or brought me along, and made 2009 so amazing! Happy holidays to you all! See you next year!

Labels: other

December 23, 2009

Isaac & Sofia | Family

Last month I met Erin and Keith,
along with their two kids Isaac and Sofia!
I am so happy to finally get a chance
to share some of my favorites on the blog...

I love their expressions :)
They were great at smiling at the camera,
but I did my best to catch them being themselves...
I had to be quick though!

This board kept them occupied for a little while...

...it quickly turned into a game, kind of racing around
and running and giggling...
no rules really, just having fun!

Sofia and Isaac are from Guatemala and
they brought along a couple items
to represent their culture,
something their parents are continuing to celebrate
and teach them about...

All of you were such a joy to work with!
Your family is beautiful :).
Have a wonderful Christmas
and best wishes for 2010!

Labels: family, kids

December 17, 2009

Mckenzie | Senior Session

Mckenzie is a senior at Grandville,
and I met her through her teacher - my husband!
She began babysitting for our two kids,
and we are so happy we found her!
Anyway, she knew I was a photographer and asked me
to do a senior portrait session.
It was nice to get to know her better.
We spent a lot of time wandering around Eastown,
then ventured over to the campus of Aquinas,
where she plans to attend college next fall!

Mckenzie is full of life and joy,
and has such a bright future....
You can tell right away meeting her that
she has a wonderful spirit and confidence,
and it will take her far.
Mckenzie,
best wishes for the rest of your senior year and in college!
I'm sure I will see you again soon!

Labels: seniors and portraits

December 15, 2009

Walk Through the Woods | Family Session

Last month I got to meet another
wonderful family through a mutual friend,
and I really enjoyed that late fall afternoon taking photos of them
and their adorable boys Nick and Levi!

The sun was setting already - but it made for some gorgeous light...

Nick was busy exploring and talked my ear off,
while Levi was a little shy for a while...

There's a smile, even with a little teardrop! ;)
Big brother can make him laugh!

You all were so much fun -
I remember hanging out at that playground
and not wanting to leave!
It was great to meet you, and I hope you have a wonderful holiday!

Labels: babies and toddlers, family

December 8, 2009

Christopher | Senior Session

This fall I did a senior portrait session
for our friends' son Christopher,
a student at Grandville.
It was a perfect day, and I enjoyed taking these photos
because I think I captured his personality...

Jim and Cathy, his parents, are friends of ours
from church, and came along for the session...
it was very nice to spend a little time with all three of them!
Chris (like most guys I've met) doesn't love
having his photo taken,
but he was such a good sport about it and
I really appreciate them choosing me to capture him at
this point in his life.
Chris, best wishes to you for your future!
I believe we all have gifts and talents to share,
it took me a long time to figure out what mine were.
I hope that you find yours, and when you do
I know that success and happiness will follow!

Labels: seniors and portraits

December 1, 2009

Kristi & RJ | 11.06.09

Last month Kristi and RJ were married in Grand Rapids
and I was there to capture the details.
It was such a privilege to spend the day with these wonderful
families and their friends.
Kristi started the day with her hair being done by her sister...

Then everyone headed to Kuyper College
and the chapel to finish getting ready...

Just gorgeous!

They shared a first look in the front of the chapel,
and I just love their expressions!

Husband and wife! Making if official...

Off to the Stadium Club for their reception.

One of my favorite details from the day:
their amazing Mexican buffet,
continually refilled throughout the night.
I was fortunate enough to get to enjoy some of this
wonderful food - especially the hottest salsa on the table - yum!

Had to grab a shot of the Fifth Third Ballpark sign by the side
of the highway...

What truly stands out in my mind from this wedding
was the way Kristi and RJ looked at each other...
When she was near him, she just looked so calm
and obviously happy, you could see on her face that she was
exactly where she needed to be.
And when he looked at her, all you could see was how
in love he is, and that nothing else matters.
The gorgeous dress, jewelry, flowers,
beautiful music, programs, food,
and all those little details they planned
that made their wedding so lovely,
are just for one very special day.
They are put away, and fade into memories...
It was a joy for me to witness them together,
and to see their faces light up.
My wish is that those looks they gave each other,
and the feelings of love behind those expressions
fill them with joy and peace for countless days ahead.
Congratulations!

Labels: weddings