Mr. and Mrs. Bell

I had the privilege of photographing my cousin Ashley's wedding in June. I was very nervous- its one thing to take picture of my friends for their Christmas cards and quite another to try and capture a once in a lifetime event. Overall, I think the pictures turned out well. Looking over them, I see a hundred things I would do differently, or better, or not at all, but I managed to deliver a few nice photos, and a good overview of the day. I learned a lot from the experience- especially in the post-processing- and I can hopefully use that information to make me a better photographer.
The wedding itself was beautiful. Ashley and Cody make a handsome couple, and her bridesmaids were model-beautiful. Ashley was a gorgeous bride. With beautiful evening light and Colorado mountains in the background, the setting was wonderful. We all had a good time.
On an end note, I would please like everyone to repeat after me: "I will never, ever, never follow the official wedding photographer around and take my own pictures while I am a guest at a wedding. Ever."
I don't know if it was because I was a family member and not a professional or if it is just what people do, but there were a few (sometimes more) people basically following me around and taking pictures behind me. The subjects were distracted and frankly more than one shot was ruined by eyes focused behind me on a renegade photographer. Very annoying- don't do it.
With that being said, here are a few of my favorites of Ashley and Cody.

Here's to a long and happy life together!

Chauncey's 17th Birthday

Yup, you heard me right. Seventeen. When did that sweet little boy grow up?
We had his usual birthday celebration at our house. The little kids were able to gaze in adoration at their favorite big person, and all 7 grandkids spent time in the pool. Chloe, Emi and Ellie were pracitcing their sychronized swimming routines. They have a bright future in the 2016 olympics.

Or maybe Ellie will become a goggle model.

This boy is headed for GQ . . .

Cousin soup. They were swarming Chauncey in the pool. They can't help themselves- he's like the sun to their little planets.

I try to get a picture of Chaucney diving off of the board every year. Last year he didn't have quite so many muscles.

The birthday boy chose a cookie cake AND mud pie. Smart man.

Hayden was so excited to give Chauncey our present- a Brazil soccer jersey JUST LIKE HIS. Now they really are twins. Its actually hard to tell them apart when they are both wearing them.

Happy Birthday, Chaucney. You are a wonderful young man. Although I really miss your adorable four-year-old self.