a.tonagel photography

Beginner's Workshop

2011-12-21T14:17:00.000-06:00

Who wants to come hang out with these two crazy ladies????
Contact me if you are interested in signing up!
As I type this we have 4 slots left.
a

ps. yes, i know i need mascara on in this picture. it is very frightening. i don't wear eye makeup when i shoot a wedding b/c it ends up all over my face! scary!

New blog coming!!!!!

2011-09-30T20:37:00.000-05:00

Hey all just wanted to let you know that I won't be updating this site anymore because I am getting a NEW BLOG!!!!!!!! (I just screamed this so you should read it like that.) :)
So excited! It will be a professional blog and show off my pictures in a much better way.
I am thankful that my little hobby is now a business because of so many encouraging people.
Oh and... it will no longer be "bellies to babies". I have officially dropped that name and will just be "a.tonagel photography"
Which means... yes, I will be booking weddings now! Can't wait to share two more weddings with you once I have the new blog up and running.
Once it is all set up I will post a link on here. For now, toodles!
a

Wedding- Tim and Liz

2011-09-25T13:25:00.000-05:00

Liz and Tim had such a fun filled day for their wedding day. So much thought went into special touches by them and their families. I was blown away by all the details.

I'm not sure what I loved more about the day. The awesome paper bouquets, fingerprint engraved rings, beautiful artwork that was made into a "guestbook", fun masks for all the guests, an ice cream truck at the reception, homemade pinatas or Tim serenading his bride. Wow! All of it was just amazing!
Congratulations to the adorable couple. I wish you a lifetime of happiness!

Huffer Family

2011-09-19T06:56:00.000-05:00

I LOVE this session! The girls were perfect angels for me!
Enjoy a small preview~
a

My Punk

2011-09-11T06:53:00.000-05:00

I am busy editing away at Tim and Liz's wedding photos but I thought I would share this picture of my little punk. He is going to be 2 in about a month. Gasp! How did that happen?!?!?!? Oh he is so sweet!
Liz and Tim's wedding pics will start up in a few days so check back soon! :)
a

Thank you!

2011-09-09T06:26:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to say thank you to a few people...
I received all these in one day. An adorable thank you card from my recent bride-Liz with a Starbucks gift card. oohhh... thank you! Can't wait to ditch my adorable children and go use this!
And... I recieved my "capture life" necklace from the contest I won. It is so cute! I have worn it almost every day since. Love it!
Then... yesterday I got a sweet note from a client thanking me for the pictures. I had to laugh b/c on her check in the note part it said, "for kick*** pictures!" That just made me laugh and smile!
This photography journey has been just that. I journey for me. I am learning more every day and trying to improve my images. Thank you to all who have supported this journey!

peace out, a

Darcy- Beautiful Belly

2011-09-05T19:06:00.022-05:00

Darcy is one of my best friends. She and I met about a year and a half ago and we joke about how we don't know how we lived our first 29 years of life without each other! We have soo.... many things in common. One thing we don't have in common... I have 3 boys. She is going to have 3 girls. :) We are all happy about it though because that means there is a better chance of a "Holsopple-Tonagel" wedding someday. :)

A few weekends ago Darc assisted/second shot for me at a wedding in LP so we decided to stay the night and make a little weekend out of it. I insisted on a few preggo pics of her. Poor girl had to pose herself b/c my brain was fried after a wedding and a family shoot but we got some adorable pictures of her. She is so pretty!

Did I mention that Darcy is a photographer? She has helped me so much with my skills and I really appreciate it! Check out her work here.

This picture is for her family. She noticed in my parents' antique shop there was a "Replogle" Globe. So of course we had to put it in a belly shot!

Darc you are such a wonderful friend. Thanks for all you do for me!
a

Wainscott Family

2011-09-03T12:10:00.000-05:00

Thank you to the Wainscott Family for coming to LaPorte for a family session with me. Erin and I went all through school together and believe it or not she and her main squeeze have been together longer than my hubby and me! Didn't think that was possible but it is! :) These high school sweethearts are still going strong! And look at these cute kiddos of theirs!!

Thanks guys for a fun time!

In addition to a photoshoot they also got to enjoy the "Sensow Funny Farm" for a bit. :) Bubba was my assistant and helped entertain the girls.

Keeping it real... here is what Ashlynn thought of me and my big fat camera. :)

Addison though was all smiles!

Dylan is so handsome! Got his mama's beautiful eyes!

Thanks guys!
a

Notre Dame Wedding

2011-09-02T12:09:00.000-05:00

I have had the wonderful priviledge this spring/summer to attend a few weddings with Joanne of Josephiney Photography. I was thrilled when she asked me if I would be willing to assist her at this beautiful vineyard wedding. We got along so wonderfully that day and had such a great time that we quickly planned a few others were I would help by second shooting for her. I scored big time when she told me that the next one would be at Notre Dame! I am NOT a ND fan but I will say I totally get why people are now that I have gone there and seen how beautiful it is. :)
It was such an honor to shoot in the famous Basilica and on the ND field. Here are just a few of my favorite shots that I got. You can check out all of her wonderful work from the ND wedding here at Josephiney Photography. Joanne and I will be hitting up two more weddings together this month. Can't wait to spend more time with her! Thanks Joanne!

Zach and Daiane- Formals

2011-08-30T09:24:00.000-05:00

I can't thank Zach and Daiane enough for taking a chance on me as their wedding photographer. I have loved wedding photography for quite awhile but wasn't sure if I ever wanted to attempt it. Z/D you were the perfect first couple for me! I loved working with you two and your families. Thank you!
Thank you also to Darcy Holsopple Photography for assisting and second shooting. She was such a help!
Vendor Info...
Ceremony- Village at Winona's Lakeside Chapel

Reception- Stonehedge Country Club

Cake- Irene Risner. Super yummy and gorgeous! The bride highly suggests her!

DJ- Barry Epley

and on to some of their formals. We had a TON!

Thanks again Pahl family for choosing me to capture this day for you. I think it may have pushed me over the edge to changing "from bellies to babies" to "brides, bellies and babies"????? :)
a

Zach and Daiane- Reception

2011-08-28T09:59:00.000-05:00

One of the sweetest parts of the whole day was when Zach's brother Michael arranged for Daiane to have a Skype session with her family in Brazil. I don't know about anyone else but I was wiping tears away behind the camera. So sweet!

Well aren't they cute! (they belong to me.) :)

Let's end with this pic. Love it!

Tomorrow... the long awaited formals. Trust me you will want to come back to see those. :)

Zach and Daiane- Ceremony

2011-08-27T09:39:00.000-05:00

The setting was perfect for this ceremony. Hot but perfect. ;)
I loved how they met and walked down together.

Stay tuned. Tomorrow will be featuring the reception photos!
a

Zach and Daiane- Details

2011-08-26T15:34:00.000-05:00

Ok, the wedding pics are done! I am so excited to share a very teeny tiny amount with you! Let's start with some of the detail and getting ready shots...

Can't imagine why she needed help getting those hot puppies on??? :) I would seriously kill myself if I wore those! Props to you Daiane!

Up next... the ceremony!
a

Ganshorn Family

2011-08-24T12:25:00.000-05:00

I had a great time with the Ganshorn Family last week. We did our photoshoot at a pretty special place. This is where the couple met when they were just 15 years old. Emily was scanning Lake Wawasee for some cute boys and found her life long cutie- Chris swinging from this rope swing!

Thanks guys for having me take your photos. You have a beautiful family on the inside and out!

The boys showed off for me so I could get some action shots.

Featuring our Family

2011-08-20T14:05:00.005-05:00

Thank you to Darcy Holsopple Photography for taking charge behind my camera for these photos of my crazy family. Trust me, these were not easy to get. :)

Here is our crew (Holsopple Family also) making our way around the Notre Dame campus. Just to be clear... we are NOT Irish fans but I will give their campus props. Gorgeous!!!!!

Thanks Darc!

Nikole-Belly

2011-08-18T06:48:00.002-05:00

I don't honestly know what to say about these pictures besides....
NIKOLE YOU ARE GORGEOUS!!!!!

Congratulations on expecting your first baby. You guys were a great couple to photograph. I wish you the best!

A BIG FAT THANK YOU!

2011-08-16T07:04:00.011-05:00

Just wanted to thank you all for voting for my picture in the "Capture Life" contest. After 600+ votes my picture won!!!!! It received 278 votes. Thank you so much for your support of my hobby turned business. I am loving that I have found something that I feel like I am decent at and enjoy doing. Ben commented that he was happy for me b/c a few years ago I had been having a hard time. After I stopped teaching I didn't have as many friends and didn't have anything that was just mine. I have that now! I have the best friends in the world and am so enjoying my life. I thank God for blessing me and my family.
Thank you also to one of my dearest friends, Darcy Holsopple Photography for taking this picture of my Cabana Boy and I. :)
a

Jori- Bitty Baby

2011-08-14T07:01:00.000-05:00

Sweet Jori and I got together last week for some pictures. She is a little older than your typical newborn but she did great for a 6 week old.
Enjoy her preview!

Congratulations on your sweet baby girl!
a

My morning in photos

2011-08-07T06:27:00.010-05:00

Personal post this time.

Here is my morning in photos.

Woke up to a snotty nosed boy. :( Sorry, I know that is kind of gross but he's still cute to me. :)

Was serenaded by Montley Crew at 8:10am

Headed outside while it was nice and cool.

One of my favorite sights from my porch. I know it doesn't look like much to someone who doesn't live in the country but I have a serious love addiction for irrigation. The sound. ohh... baby! I love to go to sleep at night listening to the irrigation out our windows.

Farmer Don wouldn't like these weeds but I thought they were kind of pretty.

The 1 cornstalk my punks are growing so they can be real "farmers".

Beans

Beanfield and my beloved irrigation

This is "Hummy". He has been our pet all summer. This window is right at our kitchen sink and we love seeing him and his friends. Side note: this is some serious shutter-speed action to get those wings caught in motion!

The punks and I built this little house. I said it was a "fairy house". They said it was "a place for all those big pincher bugs." Boys!

Punk 2 composed this shot. He told me to take a picture of him doing this to his little brother. I obliged.

It was great to have a morning that was nice and cool and not a whole lot going on. Reminded me how much I love my boys and am thankful for this home to raise them in. God is good!
a

Have you voted?

2011-08-06T01:39:00.000-05:00

Thank you to everyone who has voted for my photo. If you haven't yet, voting closes tonight at midnight. Please take 1 minute and go cast your vote for #8!
Capture Life Contest
THANK YOU!!!!!!
amanda

A Sneak Peak

2011-08-01T05:07:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was my first wedding and here is just a tiny sneak peak of our gorgeous couple. A full post will be coming in a few weeks!

Halle- Bitty Baby

2011-07-30T10:00:00.000-05:00

Here is sweet Halle!

I will be watching her grow over her first year. Check back in about 4 months to see how big she has gotten!

Jackson-Bitty Baby

2011-07-28T19:38:00.001-05:00

Here is sweet baby Jackson!
I will be photographing Jack every 4 months until his first birthday so check back to see how much he has grown!

Wide awake and newborn eye contact. Very rare!

Cousin Jack

2011-07-22T19:36:00.000-05:00

My little nephew is getting bigger! No!!!!!!

One of my punks wanted a picture with his little cousin. :)

Happy 1st Birthday Allison!

2011-07-20T19:30:00.000-05:00

Happy 1st Birthday to Miss Allison!

Honey and Friends

2011-07-20T19:16:00.000-05:00

Ready for picture overload of adorable pony and even more adorable kids?
Here they come...

Compton Kids

2011-07-18T19:28:00.000-05:00

Baby Oliver was ready for his first photo shoot and we had a great time together. His big brothers wanted in on all the fun and were perfect models!

What beautiful boys you have Compton family! Thanks so much for having me over to photograph your treasures.

Oliver spent 111 days in the NICU and this blanket was laid over his bed. What a sweet miracle this little boy is!

Happy Birthday Oliver!

2011-07-12T21:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to Sweet Oliver!
He was the first birth I had attended and I cried like a baby when he was born. It's been fun to see him grow over the past year.
a

The Grady Bunch

2011-07-09T06:47:00.001-05:00

Love this family. Love these pictures. :)
Enjoy!

My punks snuck into some of the photos with their friends. :)

Happy Birthday to my FIrecracker!

2011-07-04T12:34:00.001-05:00

Happy 4th Birthday to my "little" firecracker Sawyer!
The fourth of July has always been my favorite holiday. When my second son Sawyer was born on that day it just sweetened it for me. He loves how everyone decorates for HIS birthday, has a parade for HIS birthday, shoots fireworks for HIS birthday and the best part... having a jet fly over just for HIS birthday! :) He is having a "Fighter Jet" airplane party in another week with his friends so I thought these glasses were perfect for him. I know you can see my huge reflection in them I didn't take the time to edit that out. Just wanted to showcase his cute little mug on his Golden birthday.
I hope you all have a wonderful holiday with your family!
a

Not to be Outdone

2011-07-03T14:10:00.002-05:00

This is a composite of the two lower pictures. (They were taken within a matter of seconds of one another.) I took these last night from our porch. We watched the Wawasee Fireworks display all while a crazy summer storm rolled in. Talk about a show!
I think God wanted to remind us that he can demonstrate his power at any time. :)
Happy Fourth of July everyone!

Yoder Family

2011-07-02T12:26:00.001-05:00

The Yoder Family and I enjoyed a fun evening of crazy mosquitoes, bullfrogs and a stray dog following us around to get these pics.
In the end it was worth it! :)
Enjoy your family photos Yoders!
a

Hannah- 4 months

2011-07-01T23:10:00.001-05:00

Enjoy these sweet pictures of sweet 4 month old Hannah! What fun it was to see her again! Looking forward to meeting up with this adorable family again in 4 months.

Interested in a photo shoot? Contact me at amandatonagel@yahoo.com for details.

I'm Back!

2011-06-27T21:23:00.002-05:00

Ok, I am so sorry for the lack of pics lately. I have been VERY busy taking them I just have run out of time as far as loading them on here. I apologize to the clients that got missed on here.
Since the last time I blogged I have have had lots of sessions!
Bellies, births, babies, brides and a whole lot of other randoms. :)

Here are just a small amount of what I have been up to...

Thanks for checking back in on more poor neglected blog. Please contact me if interested at photos at amandatonagel@yahoo.com

Blog Makeover

2011-05-16T13:27:00.000-05:00

Hi all,
I have contacted someone to do a blog makeover for me. In the meantime please check out my facebook page for updated photos.
Sorry for the inconvenience.
Please email me at amandatonagel@yahoo.com for information on photos.
Thanks to everyone for helping me take my hobby to a new level.
amanda

No More Pictures!?!?!?!?

2011-04-26T14:56:00.000-05:00

Apparently I have run out of space on my blogs for pictures. Boooo.... I have to look into purchasing more space. Check back later.
Sorry!
amanda

I Heart Faces-Wind Challenge

2011-04-18T19:13:00.002-05:00

my sis enjoying some sun (and wind!) at the beach in Gulf Shores, Alabama.

Head on over to "I heart faces" for more "wind" entries!
amanda

Superheroes

2011-04-13T15:25:00.027-05:00

I took my two oldest boys out with me a few weeks ago for some errunds and convinced them to let me take their pictures. Their request... they got to wear superhero outfits for the photos. Fine by me!

Here they are fighting crime in bustling city of Nappanee, IN.

Trying to get a photo of the two of them looking at me and smiling is about impossible!

I actually like that they aren't looking right at me in this one.

and the inevitable...

Mr. Batman...

with his beloved lunchbox...

and... Super Sawyer

Heartbreaker...

No need to fear. I am here to protect you.

Thanks Veni's Sweet Shop for putting up with a mom and two superheros.

Tenley- Big Baby

2011-04-10T14:57:00.000-05:00

Here is Miss Tenley at 5 months old. She has the prettiest little lips and blue eyes.

My son jumped in to help make Tenley smile. This is her laughing at him.

One of my favorites from our session.

LOVE the drool in this photo.

Smiley baby girl!

always nice to end with a "piggies" shot. :)

E-Claire is 4 months old!

2011-03-22T08:41:00.000-05:00

If you haven't caught on this little gal's real name is Emma-Claire but her family has affectionately nicknamed her "E-Claire". I think it is so cute!

Here are some of our favorites from her 4 month photoshoot. Big sister Adella Mae had to join in also of course.

Thank you for allowing me to photograph your sweet girls!

The Birth of Alexis- Birth Center

2011-03-16T06:06:00.001-05:00

I had the honor of attending another birth at my favorite place- Goshen Birth Center last week. This is where I had my last punk- Brooks and can not say enough wonderful things about the midwives, staff and facility.

Renae along with her husband and sister all arrived at the center about midnight. I started snapping away and by 2:37am. Miss Alexis was born into the water. Such a wonderful moment for all that were there.

Bubbles are a laboring girl's best friend.

Lots of loving support.

She's here!

I love our midwives' shirts!

Alexis' Aunt cutting the cord.

Apparently she is already tired of getting her picture taken. Ok, ok. Point taken.

My favorite picture... Congratulations Hartman Family. Thank you for allowing me to capture one of the most special days in your life.

Jack- 3 months old

2011-03-15T08:40:00.000-05:00

What? You think we are crazy for making you sit in this bucket all while we make goofy faces at you trying our hardest to get you to smile? Seems perfectly normal to me.

This bucket belonged to his Uncle Ben (my Cabana Boy).

BIG eyes!

So handsome!
a

Happy 1st Birthday William!

2011-03-07T13:10:00.000-06:00

Happy 1st Birthday to my nephew Willam!

So not exactly the reaction we were all hoping for with the cake but he is still pretty cute. :)

I really like this photo of him. It reminds me of an old photo from the 50's or 60's. Kind of timeless looking. Or at least i think so. :)

Addalyn- 5 months old

2011-02-28T22:02:00.000-06:00

This might just be the cutest family ever. serious!

Had a fun morning with this family. I have loved watching Addalyn and her family grow. Here is her mama's belly session, Addalyn's bitty baby session and here she is at just shy of 5 months old.

What a doll!

can ya feel the love? :)

cutest baby buns ever!

this little piggy went to market...

Oh you are so sweet Miss Addalyn!

Love you Bailey family!

Hannah- Bitty Baby

2011-02-18T20:36:00.000-06:00

Hello Sweet Baby!

Here is Miss Hannah at 6 days old.
You will be seeing more of Miss Hannah over the next year. Her parents have booked a baby package with me to document her first year. I am excited to see her again in June for her four month pictures.

Two generations have met and married through showing Draft horses. Wonder where Miss Hannah's future husband is right now? :)

The new family of three

Thank you for allowing me into your beautiful home. I look forward to watching Hannah grow!
a

Remy- Bitty Baby

2011-01-29T10:57:00.000-06:00

Here is little Remy!

Talk about a sweet boy!

LaPorte County Right to Life requested a photo like this.

One of his three big sisters...

Thanks Crystal for allowing me to come snuggle with your new baby boy. What a joy he will bring to your family!
amanda

Let it snow!

2011-01-14T13:21:00.000-06:00

Well... no bellies or babies to report on here so I thought I would share a few pics from outside. There was a gorgeous snow here last Sunday. It was so thick and feather light. It just kept floating down from our trees. I am not a winter person by any means but I have to admit that it is pretty to look at.

All of these photos were edited with "Florabella" actions that I blogged about yesterday.
I LOVE these actions!

Waiting on a poor overdue mama to have her little boy so I can take some pics of him

and then a baby girl next month!

Florabella LOVE

2011-01-13T14:17:00.000-06:00

Check out Florabella's FREEBIES right now. Too sweet for Valentines day!

Florabella's Valentines Day Freebies

ps. I use Florabella actions and LOVE them!

Shawna- Belly

2010-12-28T07:23:00.000-06:00

Shawna and I got together for her belly session in LaPorte, IN. We had to reschedule once due to LP getting 12 inches of snow the night before! When we finally did meet up it was beautiful outside with the mounds of snow. The downside... it was FOURTEEN degrees out. No joke! My fingers felt like they were going to break off. Despite the temperature we got some pretty pictures.

Shawna received her belly session as a shower present from her mother-in-law and sister-in-law. What a fun gift! Contact me if you are interested in doing this for someone you know.

Beautiful light!

Stone Lake frozen over.

Shawna braved the cold for a split second so I could get a bare belly shot.

Thanks Shawna for a fun/cold time! Enjoy these last few weeks of pregnancy.

amanda

Merry Christmas 2010

2010-12-23T21:49:00.004-06:00

No Mistletoe Necessary Christmas 5x7 folded card

Shutterfly Christmas cards

View the entire collection of cards.

JJT- bitty baby

2010-12-21T20:52:00.001-06:00

Here is my adorable nephew! I finally got to meet him last weekend.
I love him! He did not however love my camera! Hah!
Merry Christmas JJT!

Sierra- Bitty Baby

2010-12-06T13:29:00.000-06:00

Umm... can you say adorable? She is such a sweetie.

Once again I have fallen behind on this blog. My apologies! I hadn't made a post yet to congratulate Brigitta and Dann on their newest addition- Sierra. At least now you don't have to wait to see the precious baby pictures!

This precious little girl was born at my favorite place- Goshen Birth Center!!!!! Way cool!

Thanks to "Simply Bow-licious" for this headband.

Thanks Brigitta and family for allowing me to snuggle your brand new baby girl and take her pictures!

I am thrilled to let all of you know that I had the pleasure to attend my first homebirth last week. It was such a peaceful environment for this mama to labor in. What a beautiful thing for her daughter to be born into a warm tub of water surrounded by a few loving people, low lights and then got to snuggle with her mom and dad in their own bed moments later. Amazing! I will most likely not be posting any pictures of this birth. The mom would like to keep these private for her and I completely respect that. I am just honored that I got to be there to witness a true miracle.

I have a belly session and another bitty baby session before Christmas and then I will be slowing down for a bit this winter. Check back in another week or so for more adorable "bellies to babies" photos.

Thanks all, a

Oh and I am starting to fill up for the spring/summer. Please contact me at amandatonagel@yahoo.com if you are wanting to schedule a session! Thanks!

Bitty Baby- "E-Claire"

2010-11-24T06:37:00.000-06:00

Meet "E-Claire"

Is she cute or what?????

This picture reminded me on an antique Christmas card so I had fun adding a frame and text.

Wedding decorations turned baby props.

Proud big sister!

Thanks for allowing me to come to your home and snuggle with your beautiful baby girl!

Bitty Baby-Miss A

2010-11-21T06:18:00.001-06:00

If your not sitting down, you might want to. You are going to be here for awhile looking at an adorable baby. :)

Meet 7 day old "Miss A".

All FIVE pounds of her...

"Miss A" joined two brothers and a big sister. Check out all those little piggies...

This gorgeous mamas is a wonderful friend of mine. We were planning to do belly pictures but unfortunately she was put on bed rest due to pre-clampsia setting in. So... as disappointed as I was not to see her as a beautiful pregnant gal I was thrilled that I got to see their whole family including their newest addition.

FIVE pounds. That's it. Just 5 pounds...

Thanks Ashley from "Simply Bowlicous" for the bow.

I want her lips...

Nikki you are so pretty...

Trying out some more fun frames.

Big Sister...

Thanks guys so much for having me take these pictures. I had a wonderful time seeing you all!

Bitty Baby- Liam

2010-11-19T06:33:00.003-06:00

First up... Baby Liam!

I wasn't able to see Liam in the normal newborn time frame (first 13 days) so he was not as happy about posing for us. We did our best considering there were six children running around while taking these!

What a little pumpkin. :)

Brothers...

For those of you who know anything about photoshop I used some of my earnings to purchase some Florabella actions. Oh my... they rock my socks off. I am still trying to learn how to use the frames so I know this next one isn't perfect but still wanted to share.

And in an effort to keep it real... :)

Thanks guys for having us all. We love visting you and sure wish we lived closer!

Congrats Times Three

2010-11-17T17:35:00.000-06:00

So sorry to have let this blog slip away again for a bit.

I have happy news though!
These three beautiful mamas all had healthy babies!

Congratulations to Jeff, Alyssa and Macy on the birth of another baby girl- Tenley!

Congratulations to Matt, Courtney, Nolan and Meredith on their newest baby brother- Liam!

Congratulations to Mark, Dana and Adella-Mae on a beautiful baby girl- Emma Claire!

Check back every two days for pictures of Liam, "E-Claire" and another beautiful little girl- Miss A.

Brigitta-Belly

2010-11-02T09:41:00.000-05:00

I had a fun time photographing this family. We did our photo shoot at a local camp. It held special meaning for the couple because they both worked/volunteered there before eventually getting married.

We had to do a few funny fall time themed pictures.

Big sister was had a great time in front of the camera.

I think she is looking forward to being a big sister to "PeeWee".

Thanks "A" family! Looking forward to photographing baby girl when she arrives!

Simply Bowlicious

2010-10-29T08:48:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to give a little shout out to "Simpy Bow-licious Bow-tique". Ashley designed and made these flower bands for Miss Addalyn. She has some adorable bows, clips, headbands for bitty babies and adults! Her new Christmas bows are super cute!
Check out her site and find her on Facebook to see all of her products and prices.
Hoping I have some more baby girls to photograph so I can show off some more of these sweet headpieces.
Thanks Ashley!

Micahlyn- Big Baby

2010-10-23T15:43:00.000-05:00

This is 4 month old Micahlyn. She is such a cutie! Check out those bright blue eyes!

Her grandma had this old baby buggy so it was perfect for some outdoor shots.

Super smiley baby girl!

Wanted to show off the back of her adorable sweater.

Rolls look so good on babies

Baby blues!

Ballerina Micahlyn

Thanks Alyssa for letting me take these pictures of your sweet baby girl. I am looking forward to seeing how much she has grown by the time she turns 1!

amanda

Introducing Miss Addalyn!- Bitty Baby

2010-10-20T18:28:00.000-05:00

Could she be any cuter??? I think not!

What a little doll.

I like the portrait pics of Addalyn but I have to be honest and say that I LOVE the pictures of her with her mom and dad. I guess that just reminds me why I wanted to specialize in this area of photography.

Special keepsake booties...

Mandy you are glowing as a new mama!

Scott, you look great holding a baby girl!

What a blessing to watch a family of two become a family of three.

I wish you guys the best in this new adventure. You are going to be wonderful parents.

These two are so head over heels in love with this little girl.

Congrats on your "little pumpkin" :)

New Packages and Prices

2010-10-16T18:49:00.000-05:00

I wanted to let everyone know that I am now offering Session packages. I have also redone my pricing. Please see the "pricing" tab at the top of the page for details.
Thank you all so much for supporting this hobby/small business/addiction (whatever you want to call it!).
Because I am trying to keep my photography at a hobby level I am currently booked through Christmas. I will only be available for shooting births for the months of January and February (unless I have already scheduled with you.) Please contact me early on if you are wanting to schedule a shoot.
Thanks again for all your support~
amanda

oh and p.s. a post is never good without a photo so here is my little ONE year old. ;)

Right To Life

2010-10-16T16:49:00.001-05:00

Last week I had the pleasure to attend the "LaPorte County Right to Life" banquet.

I was honored that they wanted to use a few of my pictures during their presentation.

The speaker for the evening was Abby Johnson (see the link for her interviews with Bill O'Reilly, Mike Huckabee and Focus on the Family).

Her story is truly inspiring and honestly a gut check. She was one of the former directors of Planned Parenthood. She worked for a VERY large abortion clinic. Her life changed the day she watched an abortion performed with an ultrasound. She had sat in on many abortions before but had never actually witnessed what was happening inside. She literally watched the "choice" unfold before her eyes. Since that day she has spoken out for life.

Honestly, I keep trying to write this post but can't seem to find the right words. I type, delete and type again. My heart breaks for the families that have been affected by abortion. So many lives lost and so many women and men mourning.

October is "Respect Life" month. Would you take a few moments to pray for women to find healing from abortions and to pray for those considering one?

Babies, babies and more babies????

2010-10-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

Lots of congratulations in order!

Congratulations to the Richards' Family!

Liam James Richards

October 7th, 2010

1:27 am

6 lbs. 10 oz

19 ¾ inches

and...

Congratulations to the Bailey Family!

Addalyn Grace Bailey

10/9/10

1:47pm.

She weighed in at 7lbs. 13oz. and is 20 1/4 in

I'm waiting to hear news on a few other mamas! Can't wait to get my hands on some of these little babes! On a personal note, my baby is turning one this week! I am struggling with emotions of being so thankful and happy and sad that this stage of my life is most likely done.

Have a wonderful week!

amanda

Hudson- Bitty Baby

2010-10-08T20:42:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to the Roler family on the birth of
Hudson Alan Bradley
September 16, 2010
6.12 lbs and 18.5 inches!!

I apologize for the delay in congratulating them on here. I have been behind lately.
I had the opportunity to take Hudson's bitty baby pics last weekend. What a sweet boy!!!
Usually I like to save my favorite picture for the end but I'm not wasting any time with this one.

Ta da...
love this mama and her baby...

so pretty in color also...

i love his little lips.

call me weird but his head smelled so good! :)

and because they are HUGE CUBS fans we had to do some vintage baseball pics and their family pictures decked out in Cubs gear.

color accent with this one...

Congratulations Roler family! Your newest addition is adorable. Thank you for letting me get my baby fix for the day! :)
a

Dana- Belly

2010-09-28T13:01:00.007-05:00

I had a wonderful time spending the morning (well actually two b/c of getting rained out) with Dana and her daughter. Big sister LOVED the camera!

We hit up the apple orchard and a sunflower field to capture some of the beautiful colors of early fall.

Thanks Dana for choosing me to take these pictures. I had a great time and am looking forward to meeting baby boy or girl in another month or so!

Alyssa-Belly

2010-09-24T14:26:00.001-05:00

I have the pleasure of counting Alyssa as one of my friends. She is one of the sweetest girls you will ever meet. She would do anything for anyone. Really. I mean that.

I was thrilled to take her preggo pics last Saturday.

We went for a natural/antique looking setting and process for the pictures.

I have to show these hilarious pictures of Alyssa rockin' it out for me in front of the camera. You still got it girl! These actually remind me of some of our pre-baby dancing nights. :)

Here is her super patient husband Jeff rocking out to "It's the Dad's Life."

Congrats guys! Can't wait to meet this new baby girl.

Thanks so much for letting me capture this exciting time in your lives.

Beautiful Family Photos

2010-09-08T19:33:00.002-05:00

This beautiful family were perfect models in front of the camera.

I call this picture, "Brotherly Love".

I honestly did not notice "little brother's" expression until after I was done editing. Hilarious!!!!

Gorgeous!!!!

Thanks Ganshorn Family. You have a beautiful family inside and out.

Courtney- Belly

2010-09-03T06:30:00.001-05:00

A few more of the lovely Courtney...

The setting was just perfect! We used an open field behind their house. The light was beautiful!

Before our shoot I had pictured in my mind most of her photographs to have

an earthy/natural feel to them. I think I got it in these next three.

Told ya the light was pppprreeeettttyyyy....

Thanks Richard's Family for hosting us! It was loads of fun.
Can't wait to hear all about your newest little one.

Italian Red Leather Shoes and Butterflies

2010-08-30T14:14:00.000-05:00

I couldn't resist... I am not done editing these pictures yet but I had to share these few. Ben and I had the pleasure of visiting some cousins this weekend. They are expecting their third baby in just 4 weeks!
Here is a sneak peek of a few of my favs...

All about the belly...
No wait, I take that back. All about the Italian Red Leather Shoes!!!!!

Courtney, can you even see those beautiful shoes?
I didn't think so! :)
Oh well. I promise they look gorgeous on you!

Their yard was swarming with these beautiful butterflies. We snatched one to use for a few photos.

Ok, more to come in another day or two. Check back.
You won't want to miss these. Courtney is breathtaking!

Krishna- Belly

2010-08-23T14:23:00.001-05:00

Here are a few of my favorite pictures from my session with the beautiful Krishna Roler. We had such a great time documenting this special phase of their lives. Their little girl was a hoot! She loved performing in front of the camera!

I talked Krishna into letting me take/post this one. Thanks Krishna!!!! You look fabulous! We also did some "boudoir" photos but those will NOT be posted! :)

Beautiful! Love these earthy tones.

Twirling like Tinkerbell...

Lovin' on Baby Brother.

Thanks Roler family for choosing me. Can't wait to meet that sweet new baby boy in a few weeks!

Mandy- Rockin her belly bump

2010-08-17T08:40:00.001-05:00

Wow, not sure if this gal could be any cuter?!?!?! I am in love with these sweet pictures. I love all of the belly pictures I have taken but these are extra special since this couple is soooo... excited about this long awaited baby! Can't wait to meet him or her in a few weeks.

It was a lot of fun to take these at their beautiful home in the country.

One of my favs...

Thought we needed a little bit of a farm/vintage look...

Thanks for letting me take these Scott and Mandy. It was a pleasure to do this for you!

Joshua and Will

2010-08-14T18:44:00.005-05:00

Last of the mini sessions here.
Here are a few pictures of adorable Joshua...

Check out his Jordan shirt and Daddy's Nikes!

I love the curl on top of his head!

Here is William. He has the bluest eyes!

Brody- 1 month

2010-08-12T18:51:00.000-05:00

This sweet boy was really funny to photograph. He was soooooo.... attached to his pacifier! I ended up with a bunch of pictures with it and got a few really great shots without when we pried it out of his mouth.

Not only an adorable baby but a gorgeous new mama as well!

Sweet, sweet baby

I couldn't decide which of these I liked better so you get to see both! I think his little mouth is great in both of them!

Jaiden

2010-08-10T18:46:00.000-05:00

Another mini-shoot here.
Jaiden kept me moving through our session. What a sweet, active boy he is.

This picture cracks me up! I was trying to get him to walk towards me and he was running zig zags all over the place!

What a good looking family!

Family Shoot

2010-08-08T18:53:00.000-05:00

I don't normally do family pictures but I owed this gal. She has been kicking my butt into gear to get in shape. She keeps me accountable and encourages me as I whine through the early morning run. Thanks K! The least I could do to show my gratitude was to snap a few pics of her adorable family.

The light was gorgeous!!!!

My favorite. :)

RJ -3 months

2010-08-06T18:40:00.000-05:00

Did a little mini-photo shoot with this little guy. What a cutie! RJ was the 100th birth at Goshen Birth Center. His mom and I enjoyed talking birth and Brooks loved seeing another little guy around the house. What he wasn't crazy about was when I was holding the other little guy! Brooks kept "yelling" at poor RJ.

9 Babies at once!!!!

2010-08-04T20:38:00.001-05:00

Yes, that is right. I along with my super good friend/talented photographer Darcy photographed NINE babies all at once! The babies were super cute and the parents jumping up and down behind me were hilarious. :) Couldn't have done it without all of you!

Here are a few of their individual shots.

Oliver- 1 week

2010-07-27T15:33:00.004-05:00

Here's my buddy Oliver. He's growing!!!!

David- 3 months

2010-07-26T14:58:00.029-05:00

Here is David at 3 months. What a big baby he is!!!

His mom had specific pictures she wanted taken to make a collage to match his siblings.

I think we did pretty well with getting just what she wanted.

I also had to throw this picture in. We are all friends from high school and try to get together once a year. This is David's family, my family and another couple with ALLLLLL our kiddos. Between the three couples there are 9 kids and one more on the way! Crazy fun!

Little Texans

2010-07-25T14:44:00.000-05:00

Here are my cutie little Texas niece and nephew.

Women would pay big bucks for her natural highlights!

Don't let that watermelon grin fool you. Put him together with my three and they are trouble!

I LOVE both of these! His little bird legs and knees crack me up!

Kissing his sissy!

See you munchkins next summer!

Zach and Daiane

2010-07-24T08:49:00.000-05:00

I had the pleasure last week to take some "non-engagement" pictures that ended up turning into engagement pictures of this adorable couple! The night after I took these Zach popped the question to Daiane.

They did a great job working it out for me in front of the camera. Total pros!

Daiane, you are beautiful!

I really like this set of them.

Work it girl!

Check out their beautiful eyes!

Hmm... maybe a possible wedding site???? I hope so!

Congratulations you two!

The Peaceful Waterbirth of Oliver

2010-07-19T19:28:00.001-05:00

I was so honored to attend the birth of this little guy. Stephanie had asked me to come as a friend and support person for her since I had recently had Brooks with the midwives at Goshen Birth Center. I about jumped out of my skin when she approached me with the idea. Are you kidding?? Of course I want to be there!

Before I left for the BC I was in our kitchen jumping around and acting like Rocky. I was yelling, "I'm going back to the birth center!!!!" Ben responded with a few jumps and punches with, "And your not pregnant!!!!" It was so funny!

I knew I would be emotional at the birth but I held it together fairly well. Or at least I thought so... comparatively speaking :) Maybe because I ended up with a few jobs. Stephenie and Forrest arrived at the BC and 30 minutes later she was in the tub and pushing. So... I was in the parking lot calling another midwife on a cell phone, writing down stats on a pad of paper, holding their video camera in my left hand and my camera in my right hand. So considering all that I am happy with the shots we got.

It was such a beautiful birth. One that I believe EVERY mom and baby deserves.

It truly was a "peaceful waterbirth".

So with that said here are a FEW pictures (i took 328) of the birth of Oliver. For obvious reasons I didn't include any of his actual birth (which there are some amazing ones of him underwater) and since she was only there for 30 minutes we didn't have too many laboring pictures. Stephanie said that was just fine with her!

Arriving 11pm on Monday, July 12, 2010

Forrest likes his coffee.

As I was unloading their car I died laughing when I saw this strapped in right next to the car seat!

Laboring in the "Victorian" birthing suite.

What a true miracle of God.

Some people (ok a lot) don't get my desire to take these types of pictures. The emotion and feeling is what gets me. These are moments that every mother wants to remember for the rest of her life. Don't get me wrong. I have enjoyed taking the "portrait" style of pictures. But this is where my heart is...

I am completely in love with this photo. I love how involved the father is and the expression on his face. And... not to brag but the fact that I got this without looking through my lens! luck!

One of my favorites...

All over. Great job Stephenie!

Check out how covered he is!

Looking right at Daddy.

Every mom and baby should have their first bath together. An herbal bath with candles lit to boot!

Another of my favorites. Sucking on his fingers during his first bath with mom.

All cleaned up.

The happy family of four.

Thank you Boesenberg family for letting me capture these special moments for you. It was an honor to be present at this wonderful birth. Thank you also to Goshen Birth Center, Amy Z. and Nancy L. for your dedication to birth.

amanda

Congratulations!

2010-07-17T05:39:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to the Boesenberg Family on the birth of
Oliver Stephen
Born 7.12.10 at 11:39pm- Goshen Birth Center
7.44 lbs and 20 inches long

I had the honor of attending this peaceful waterbirth. I can't wait to share some of my favorite photos with everyone. Check back in a few days for some emotional pictures. (Be prepared with a tissue in hand!)

My Birthday Boy

2010-07-12T17:05:00.002-05:00

Happy 3rd Birthday to my little guy!