Gear & Settings:

And that leads me to the reason that I have decided to market myself again for weddings.  Whether you are a photographer or not, you can probably imagine that photographing weddings is a big job.  I'm not going to lie...I usually feel like I've ran a marathon at the end of the wedding day...or spent an entire day at Disney World in the blazing sun!  Haha!  But...I have found over and over again that there is just no other day in a person's life that encompasses so many aspects of life all at once.  What do I mean by that?  I mean that every stage of life is represented at a wedding.  For that one day, a Mama and Daddy reminisce about their "baby" who is now grown and marrying the person of their dreams.  Stories are shared about childhood and the years that were so very short.  There are usually baby and childhood pictures displayed!  Family members visit from near and far.  Siblings shed tears and funny stories about their childhood and teenage years!  For a father and daughter, walking down the isle is the moment they've both imagined for her whole life.   I love seeing precious grandparents as they bask in the joy of the day...seeing all of their children and grandchildren in one place. 
Weddings are joyful...everyone is happy (and maybe a little stressed at times - haha) and full of hope!  Weddings also encompass nearly every human emotion...happiness, sadness, excitement, nervousness, pride, joy...and the list goes on.  A wedding day is simply overflowing with life in so many ways, and that is why I love being there! It all goes back to my WHY.  I want to see people living.  I want to honor my precious daughter, London, and use the gifts God has given me in order to love & serve others through photography.  After losing my daughter, I know the power of a picture and a moment captured for a lifetime.  Our memories are absolutely priceless!  

A few months ago, I felt that I shouldn't book any more weddings because of the demands of still teaching full time and having two very busy boys.  I turned many people away and felt, at the time, that it was right for me and my family.  However, after lots of thought and prayer, I feel that booking more weddings is exactly what I need to do!  I am so excited to celebrate love & life with so many new people this year! So...if you are a fun, laid back bride looking for a fun, laid back photographer, I would love to talk to you about your big day!!  You can contact me HERE!  If you'd like to view more wedding images, you can click HERE.  One of my favorite weddings to date was recently featured in the Spring/Summer edition of Louisville Bride!  You can read about it on the blog HERE!      

Are you a fun, laid back bride looking for a fun, laid back photographer?!  I would love to hear from you! Fill out the Contact form HERE to get started!  To view the wedding gallery, click HERE.

1. THEY ARE A PART OF YOUR FAMILY!

Whether your pet lives for one year or 15 years, they are a member of your family.  For their time with you, there are so many precious memories that are made.  Pictures are supposed to reflect a particular time in your life, right?  Well, since your pet plays such a huge role in your life, it's only fitting that you include them in your family photos. :)

2. THEY HELP YOU TO FEEL COMFORTABLE!

As much as I wish that everyone just loved having their pictures taken, that is just sadly not the case!!  I'll be honest, I would much rather be behind the camera than in front of it! :)  Having said that, bringing your pet allows you to feel more comfortable.  Pets are proven to be therapeutic in so many ways.  Bringing them along to your session helps you to take your mind off of having a camera in your face and allows you to focus more on your sweet fur baby!  Plus, there's just nothing sweeter than capturing sweet lovin' between pets and their family!  

3. THEY GIVE YOU SOMETHING TO DO!!

My sessions are always centered around doing something...whether it's exploring, walking, playing, etc.  I love movement and action so much more than just standing or sitting still.  When you have your pet with you at your session, you automatically have something you can do!  You can play with them, love on them, or walk with them...and so much more.  They're like a really adorable props that moves and makes noise! Haha :)

If you know my philosophy or have followed my work for very long, you know that I embrace imperfection and love moments that are just real, honest and tell a story!  When pets are involved in a session, I just love how perfection goes out the window, and we can just embrace the pet's personality.  We can capture the fun, love & connection that the pet and his/her family shares, and we can have a few good laughs along the way! :)

So...if you're planning on having me take your pictures, and you've wondered if it's okay if you bring your pet, the answer is YES!! :)  If it's been forever since you've had family pictures done, and you know time is passing too quickly, then I'd love for you to schedule a session! :)  You can learn about the London's Bridge Photography experience HERE, the investment HERE, and contact me HERE.  I'd love to capture your precious memories...with or without your fur baby! :)

My point is that I have been incredibly blessed with sisters!  I understand the beautiful bond that sisters share.  A sister is truly a best friend for life - someone who will laugh with you, take up for you, drive you completely nuts (it's true - haha!), and will be there for you no matter what!  When I see sisters like Reese & Ramsey, it just makes my heart smile!  These two sweet girls are so special, and it's easy to see how much they love each other!  I hope they are still hugging, loving, laughing and smiling this much when they are grown with children of their own!  

As a photographer, nothing makes me more excited than a beautiful golden sunset!!  When I can have little girls twirling in that gorgeous light...well, it just doesn't get much better than that!  Needless to say, I was one happy lady with a camera that night!! :)

I love capturing love & connection in a fun, laid back, and meaningful way!  Has it been way too long since you've had your memories captured?  I can help you with that!  You can learn all about the London's Bridge Photography experience HERE, or you can contact me HERE.  Plus, if you'd love to learn more about why photography is so much more than a job for me, I'd love for you to read about my WHY...you can do that HERE!  I can't wait to hear from you!

Motherhood Sessions were born out of my desire to simply celebrate motherhood.  Being a mom is an incredible gift.  It is full of joy, happiness, laughter, and beauty.  It is also terribly hard, exhausting, and emotionally draining at times.  My mom always says that "being a good mom is the hardest job in the world."  I couldn't agree more!  Regardless of whether this very moment yields laughter or heartache as a mom, it's all beautifully woven together into a beautiful tapestry...one that reflects our desires to raise amazing little people who will do great things someday.  Motherhood is a high calling and deserves to be celebrated! 

This Motherhood Session highlights a beautiful new mommy and her adorable 6-month-old little boy!  The love & connection they share is so precious.   This is just the beginning of a lifetime of love that will be shared between these two!    

Are you a mom who would love to have memories captured of you loving on your babies?  Maybe your babies are grown!  That's okay, too...they will always be your babies.  Motherhood is beautiful at any stage, and it deserves to be celebrated!  I'd love to capture you and your children!  You can read about the London's Bridge Photography experience HERE or contact me HERE!  I can't wait to hear from you!

Well, regardless of how fast time flies, there is one thing for certain.  Life is precious and beautiful...and with age comes many blessings.  I loved getting to see the blessings that Scott & Alaine have been given in the past 20 years!  They still have a thriving relationship, just as they did in high school.  Their children are so beautiful and full of life!  They love deeply and have fun together.  They truly enjoy life, and it was so much fun to witness!!

The littlest cutie, Merrick, was certain that there was a frog in my camera!!  Haha!!  Sometimes my trick works...and sometimes the children obsess over it! :)  Either way, she was intrigued and became my buddy really fast! :)

I asked Merrick to close her eyes...and she did exactly as I asked!! Haha :) 

All of the kids have the cutest freckles!

Merrick was bothered that I was staying behind while they took a walk! Haha!!  She was yelling, "HEY! ARE YOU COMIN' WIF US???!!!"  I mean, could she get any cuter?! :)

It's easy to see how all of the younger children adore their big sister!  She is so beautiful with such a sweet spirit.  

As a mom of boys, I absolutely love when they are up for an adventure!  At the end of the session, Foster was back over at the pond...with his shirt off...looking for fish! :)  It was great!  He said he caught one with his bare hands!

Photographing the Owens family was so much fun and laid back...exactly how I want all of my sessions to be!  If you're interested in having your family memories captured in a fun, laid back and meaningful way, then I'd love to hear from you!  You can read all about the experience HERE, the investment HERE...and you can contact me HERE!!  I can't wait to hear from you! 

This beautiful Senior is Kayla!  She recently graduated and will be heading off to college soon!  I had so much fun working with her and her sweet family!  All of those reasons I mentioned above were evident in Kayla...and in her Mama!! :)  The whole experience of working with her was a joy!

Kayla brought her boyfriend along for support and for a few pictures!  I am always okay if a Senior wants to incorporate her boyfriend (or a friend) in a few pictures.  It's like bringing a really cute prop that talks! Haha :)  

Summer is passing quickly, but I still have some weekday availability for Senior Sessions!  If you want to wear that summer dress, shorts, and maybe even kick off your shoes, then now's the time for Senior pictures!!  I'd love to capture this special time for you!!  You can learn more about the session investment HERE and can contact me HERE.  I look forward to hearing from you!!

Therefore, I just assumed that newborn photography just wasn't for me.   That is...until I started seeing "In-Home Lifestyle Newborn Photography" pop up in some of the inspirational photography forums, magazines and blogs that I follow.  When I first saw a style of newborn photography that "fit" my style of photography (and my personality), I was blown away!  It was so exciting when I realized I could create beautiful newborn portraits without wrapping, posing or spending hours doing it! I could embrace the real, natural, imperfect moments just like I do in all other areas of my photography...and that made my heart so happy!!

I haven't marketed myself as a newborn photographer.  After all, not everyone wants the natural, organic look for a newborn session.  However, for the few who have trusted me and my vision, I am so grateful.  Once I got the chance to simply document these precious little miracles just as they are in their comfortable surroundings, I loved it...and it just felt right.  Seeing new life and the love that surrounds that precious little soul is something I will never ever take for granted!  Let me get sentimental for a second.  I can't tell you how much I wish I had invested in a photographer for when my daughter, London, was born.  And, you know what?  I would've wanted images of her just being her precious little self - her little squirms, expressions, eyes open and closed, her in my arms getting kisses, her little toes, belly button, her little button nose, the way her finger grasped mine, her wispy hair...everything.  I have snapshots of a few of those things that I cherish, but to have had professional images taken from an artistic perspective would've been so amazing.  I wasn't a photographer then.  I just didn't know or appreciate the true gift of photography. Now, I do.  Now, I get it.  I know now that I can give images to my clients of their precious newborn that I wish I would've had of London.  I can capture organic moments in a beautiful, artistic way that will truly make their heart smile. I can give them the gift of memories that will last a lifetime.  After all, newborns just don't keep.  They grow way too fast, and those moments are gone way too soon.  Here are some of my favorite shots captured during in-home lifestyle newborn sessions.            Having a new baby in the home is wonderful, exciting, hard, overwhelming, messy, beautiful, and such an incredible blessing.  I want to capture it all because it's all worth being remembered!

Because of this new-found love of mine, I am needing families with newborn babies (less than 1 month old) or families who will have newborn babies between now and August! :)  From now until Friday, June 8, I will be taking names of those who would love an Lifestyle Newborn session with London's Bridge Photography!  I will choose 2 FAMILIES who will receive a FREE newborn session!!  Yep, FREE...no strings attached!!  You let me come into your home and document your precious new little miracle, and I will give you all edited images with printing rights.  

TO BE ELIGIBLE:

1. Like my Facebook Page and Follow me on Instagram.

2. Share this blog post on your Facebook page.

3. Comment on this blog post or my Facebook post stating that you've liked, followed & shared.

4. Message me and tell me about your family, your newborn and/or your due date.

* * * For those of you who are not expecting a baby, I would still appreciate you helping me get the word out by liking, following and sharing!!  In fact, if you'll let me know that you've done all three, you will be in the running for 50% off any session!!  I truly appreciate your support! :)

We had fun the whole session, but the next images are what will make me remember this session forever!  I haven't laughed this hard in a long time!  So, you can tell from above that when Jorja's mommy was blowing bubbles, there were tons of them...a big, beautiful cloud of bubbles everywhere! Haha :)  Jorja was loving it!  So, after a few minutes, I suggested that mommy hold Jorja while Daddy blow the bubbles!  And that's when the fun started!! Haha :) 

Jared took the pink bubble wand, and started blowing.  And blowing.  And, try as he might, he could NOT blow bubbles!!!  Haha!!  I laugh just typing this!  Jessi & I were in shock, and then she started laughing hysterically!!  She was coaching him, saying, "Jared, you can't blow like you're blowing out birthday candles!!  You have to blow softly!!!"  He tried to blow softly, and the bubble liquid just sprayed off the wand!  The next few minutes were filled with the biggest belly laughs I've heard in a while!  Jared just started slinging the wand around and hoping for the best!  It was hysterical!!  I think the funniest part is the fact that he's an engineer who can probably do anything and fix anything...EXCEPT BLOW BUBBLES!!! Haha!  Poor Jared!! :)

 This session & and these images, made my heart smile!  There's just nothing sweeter than witnessing a family's love & laughter and getting to tell their story!  It never gets old!  Thank you, Jessi & Jared, for letting me capture this amazing time in your lives!!  I hope these images make you smile for a lifetime!! :)

Are you ready to have your own family documented in a special way?  I would love to tell your story!!  You can start your journey by clicking HERE!  

My favorite images are always the ones where kids are just being themselves, totally in their element, doing what they love, and not even paying attention to me and my camera!  These are the moments of their childhood that they will remember forever!

Would you like to be able to capture more candid, natural photos of your kids?!  I created a simple guide with three tips to taking better pictures of your kids, and I'd love to share it with you!  Sign up for my email newsletter to get your FREE download!!  Don't worry, I won't spam you!! :)  Thanks so much!  

SIGN UP FOR THE LONDON'S BRIDGE PHOTOGRAPHY EMAIL NEWSLETTER HERE!!

If you know me or have followed my work for a while, you have heard me say that I embrace imperfection!  There are a lot of reasons why I make this known.  For one, I recognize that I am not perfect and neither are you.  Everyone messes up & needs grace daily!  

However, the main reason that I love to embrace imperfection is because I think imperfection is beautiful!  Imperfections show that there is a deeper story, there is vulnerability, there is healing, restoration, and room for you to simply imagine and ponder the reality of the situation.

BLURRY CAN BE BEAUTIFUL!

I could go on & on, but for today, I want to explain why I just might give you a blurry image in your gallery!  As a photographer, I have spent thousands of hours learning, improving & refining my craft.  I know how to take a technically "perfect" picture.  Of course I strive to provide images that reflect my skill.  However, there are times when my shutter button will go off in between those technically "perfect" images, or times when my camera simply doesn't focus in time, and as a result, I will have a blurry image.  As a perfectionist who embraces imperfection (yep, it's true), I have learned to listen to my heart!  If an image speaks to me, even if it's blurry, I have learned to embrace it, keep it, share it, and trust that it may speak to someone else, too!  After all, our memories are kind of a blur, aren't they?  Here are some blurry images that have spoken to me, and I have decided to proudly embrace anyway! :)

So, I encourage you...the next time you get a blurry image of someone or something you love - maybe you miss focus, maybe the crop is all wrong...whatever the imperfection may be, just remember to listen to your heart!!  If that imperfect image makes you FEEL something, then don't you dare delete it!!  Embrace it, own it, and love it!!

If you're looking for photography experience that is laid back, fun...and where you can be your wonderful, beautiful, imperfect self, I'd love for you to check out more information on the London's Bridge Photography experience by clicking HERE!!  Thanks so much!

~ Ashlee XOXO  

About a month ago, I opened "London's Studio" for clients.  It has been a project that has made my heart swell for so many reasons.  In my excitement for making it a place to celebrate life & have fun, I had another crazy idea this week!  Since I teach full time, and it was Spring Break this week, I had a bit of free time (which rarely happens).  So...I decided to make a chalkboard wall!!  I mean, who doesn't love to write on a chalkboard?!  And what kid doesn't dream of writing on the walls...and not getting in trouble?!!  Haha!!  

I love the finished product.  I love the moodiness of the black, the backdrop it will make for classic portraits, and the purpose it will serve as a place for children to write, draw, express themselves, and just have fun!  Plus, I am a sucker for awesome quotes & Bible verses.  I look forward to changing those out regularly, too!!  Here's London's Studio with the new chalkboard wall... :)

The boys had to test it out after the paint dried!  While Jagger drew a funny face, Jack thought he would do multiplication!  What???!!!  His teacher would be so proud!! He doesn't get that from me!!  LOL!!

I joined in the fun by writing my first meaningful Bible verse on the wall.  It's based on Daniel 3:18 when Shadrach, Meshach & Abednego were going to be thrown into the fire for worshiping God.  They basically said that they know that their God is able to deliver them from it, 'but even if He doesn't, He is still God and they will still worship Him."  I love this version because it speaks to me and my life so clearly.

"but if NOT, He is STILL GOOD!"

As I write about London's Studio and share my excitement with you regarding all the fun in decorating and sharing this space with others, it all goes back to a mindset that I had to accept..."but if NOT, He is STILL GOOD!"  London's Studio is here because HE is STILL GOOD.  I remember pleading with God before London was born to let her heart develop as it should those last few months while she was in my womb.  I remember pleading with God as I held her in my arms to let her surgery be a success.  I knew He was able.

But He had other plans...and He is STILL GOOD.

London's Bridge Photography wouldn't be here if my prayers were answered my way.  London's Studio wouldn't be here if my prayers were answered my way.  There are so many blessings that I have received all because the answer was NO.  

Because He is STILL GOOD, I get to witness others celebrating life through my lens.  I get to capture moments for families that will be cherished for a lifetime.  That is a privilege that I will never take lightly. 

The next time that things don't turn out the way that you hoped, try to see the blessings that come as a result.  It doesn't mean it will be easy, and it doesn't mean that you won't wonder "what if"...but if you will just open your eyes, you will see the blessings.  I see my blessings.  London's Studio is one of them. 

Are you interested in having a session in London's Studio?!  Awesome, you can view information HERE!  You can also view the very first session held in London's Studio by clicking HERE!  I can't wait to hear from you!

When I had the opportunity to host my first official photo shoot in London's Studio, my heart was overflowing with joy!  Not only was I getting to honor London, but I was getting to photograph two of the most precious little girls and their beautiful mama!!  To say that we had fun would be a total understatement!  I can honestly say that this session was good for my soul and truly represents everything I hope & pray London's Studio will be for those who enter: a place where life is truly celebrated!!

There was snuggling, tickling and jumping...so much jumping!!  They had a pillow fight, played Ring Around the Rosie, danced & twirled.  They let me smell their "stinky piggies", rocked with their mama in the rocking chair, and even read one of London's books that had been tucked away for over 10 years.  For the short time that these sweet girls were with me, we celebrated life and had the best time!  I'm so excited to share this session with you!! :)

Kentucky weather is so crazy!!  It was snowing in March!! 

Thank you, Taylor, for sharing your sweet girls with me & allowing me to capture so much love!!  It was truly an honor!!

Are you interested in having your own session in London's Studio?!!  Awesome!  You can view pricing & details HERE and you can read all about the London's Bridge Photography experience HERE!  I can't wait to hear from you!

I'm super excited to be starting a Newsletter!!  I would love for you to join me!  Sign up HERE and get a free guide to Taking Better Pictures of Your Kids! :)  Thanks so much!!

Congratulations to Melanie Johnson on winning the FREE STUDIO SESSION give-away!!

To celebrate the opening of "London's Studio", all studio sessions purchased between now and March 31 will be $100 OFF the regular price!!  See details below!

Ready to book?!  Awesome!  You can pay your deposit or go ahead and pay the full balance by clicking on the button below!  Then, contact me and we'll work out the details! :)  Looking forward to it!

I'm also super excited to be starting a Newsletter!!  I would love for you to join me!  Sign up HERE and get a free guide to Taking Better Pictures of Your Kids! :)  Thanks so much!!  

Everyone grieves differently and handles things differently.  Although London never slept in her crib or wore her clothes, we have never felt like we could part with any of those things.  Everything that was "hers" was in my parents' basement for about 8 years.  About two years ago, I finally got up the nerve to move it all from their home to our home in our storage room.  It was all simply taking up room, serving no real purpose than just reminding us of what never was.  Depressing, I know!  Hang with me...the story gets happy in a second, I promise.  Here was London's nursery...

It's no secret that London's Bridge Photography is named after London and was created because of London.  Everything I do with my business is to honor her and to celebrate life!  Recently, I've been toying around with the idea of a studio.  I don't use fancy lights or backdrops, as I strive to keep my images very authentic and natural.  However, I absolutely love the idea of families snuggling on the bed, mamas rocking their sweet babies, little ones jumping on the bed, everyone cuddling on the couch...you know, all of those sweet things that awesome families do.  

So, guess what?  I recently have had the best time turning my downstairs sitting room into a natural light studio!  And the best part?  I used all of London's baby furniture!!  I cannot tell you how much joy and peace it gives me to know that her furniture is, indeed, being used by "her" - her cause, her legacy.  I changed the knobs and handles to look less "babyish", but it's all in there - repurposed, yet the same as it was when it waited for her over 10 long years ago.  

I cannot wait to capture joy, happiness, and so much love in this room - The London Studio!  It was already painted chocolate brown when it was a sitting room.  I love the moodiness it has.  Maybe I'll paint it a lighter color eventually, but this will work for now. :)

Apart from London's furniture, my vintage green couch is quite possibly my favorite piece of furniture in the whole house.  It was free...yes, free...and I wouldn't take a million bucks for it.  Okay, I would totally take a million bucks for it, but you get my point!!  I really love this couch! Haha!! If you're not into green, I will just edit those snuggle shots in black & white.  Easy fix! :) I haven't hung the big framed canvas behind the couch yet, but I will.  I may take that off the wall when I'm photographing families...just because you may not want my boys in your pictures...or would you?  They're pretty cute, though. :) The next shot shows the antique baby bed spring I got from a thrift store. :)  Don't mind the cracks in our walls.  Our home was built in 1875 (143 years ago), so she has a lot of stories to tell!  I naturally embrace imperfection in a lot of areas of my life, and our home is definitely one of them!!

So, I really had in mind getting some simple, natural shots of my boys in the new studio.  Jack cooperated more than Jagger, but he still acted like I was trying to pull his teeth out or make him run naked down the street!  The five minutes of shooting time was pretty torturous for all of us. 

Check out Jagger's pictures.  I couldn't decide whether to laugh my head off or knock his head off!! LOL!!!  He had to make the goofiest faces while looking like he was one of the Chippendales!!  He is such a mess!!

Nice, Jagger...NICE!!!  Where's the "face palm" emoji when I need it?!! :)  So, needless to say, three pictures is all I got of Jagger.  Jack hung in there a little longer.  

All of his grumbling was worth it just to get this shot!  He was doing some sort of ninja kick off the couch, which is so him, so he was actually happy! Ha!  

Since torturing photographing my boys in the London Studio, I stepped way out of my comfort zone, set up my tripod and took a few self portraits.  I feel like a total geek saying that.  However, here's my justification for awkward self portraits.  I am always the one with the camera, capturing the lives of my sweet family and everyone else's family.  As much as I want to stay behind the camera, I realize the importance of being in pictures, too.  Someday when my boys are grown, I want them to have pictures of their mama...to show that I was here, too!  That's not too selfish, is it? 

Regardless, I probably could've charged money for the comedy show I put on setting my timer, running over to the bed or the chair and pretending to be distracted for pictures!! Haha!!  I don't have a remote for my camera, so I got a workout just taking self portraits.  Jagger did walk in on a couple, and I was genuinely laughing and making fun of myself.  Those ended up being the ones that make me smile...and represent me most accurately.  So, here's to my awkward selfies!!  LOL!!

Now, here's the fun part!!  I NEED to break the London Studio in!!  I can't just take selfies & Chippendales pictures in here forever!  Haha!  I need some small families (4 people max), couples, expecting mamas, or small children to photograph in this space!!

Sessions will be approximately 30 minutes long.  We will use the bed, the rocking chair, the windows, & the couch.  I'm excited to have lots of options for one space!  The best part is I am going to GIVE AWAY a studio session!!  Yep...I will photograph someone for FREE, no strings attached.  You give me 30 minutes of your time, and I'll give you beautiful images to cherish for a lifetime! :)  

Here's how to be eligible to win!!

* Share this post on your Facebook wall.

* Like my page on Facebook (HERE).

* Follow me on Instagram @londonsbridgephotography (HERE)

* Let me know that you did all three (comment here or on my Facebook post)!! 

I will choose a winner on Friday, March 23!!  I can't wait!! :)

Afton dreams big and has an eye for design that is so impressive.  Braden can build, fix, and create anything!  They're a perfect team!  Plus, Braden is seriously the most patient person on the planet.  I'm not saying that he "NEEDS" patience with Afton, but I'm just saying that it probably doesn't hurt!! Haha!!  Just kidding, Afton!!  

Afton & Braden are like two old souls.  They just belong together, plain and simple.  They are always laughing, smiling, & joking.  They truly are best friends.  When it comes to project design & construction, that goes a long way!!

Afton & Braden are also new parents to the cutest little fur baby, Augie Ray!!  He has the shortest legs ever, the fattest belly, and gives the best kisses right on the mouth!! LOL!!  He's super spoiled and knows he's in charge!

Afton & Braden have a passion for turning houses into homes.  They have already tackled the remodel of their first home, and they're still smiling!  Actually, it would take a lot for them to stop smiling.  It's just who they are!  

Are you looking to remodel, redecorate, or redesign your home?  Are you just simply wanting some design inspiration?  Then, I encourage you to visit their blog at www.proffittdesignco.com to see Afton & Braden's beautiful work and to get inspired with unique design tips & tricks! :)

I had so much fun photographing the love & fun that Afton & Braden share!  This is such a special time in their lives, and it was an honor to get to capture a few of those sweet moments for them!  That makes me wonder...has it been way too long since you've had your precious memories captured?  I can help you with that! :)  You can learn all about the London's Bridge Photography experience by starting HERE! 

One of the very first families who allowed me to capture their memories way back then was the Mays Family! I still remember our very first session together!  I remember meeting at my uncle's farm and having the absolute BEST time with Scott, Kristy, and their precious kiddos, Eli & Joy-Kate!  At the time the kids were little bitty!  I remember thinking to myself, "If every session were like this, I could do this forever!"

Here are a couple of images from our very first session together in 2011! :)  

  From the very beginning, there was just something special about the Mays Family!  I laughed my butt off at Scott...and even started calling him "Clark" (as in Clark Griswold, haha!!)  I loved that they didn't sweat the small stuff!  I loved that they let their kids be kids and that they didn't freak out if something wasn't perfect!  I loved that they trusted me and my vision and embraced the beauty of real, natural moments.  I learned quickly that I could simply be me with the Mays Family!  As a photographer, there is so much freedom in that.

As time passed, they actually kept trusting me to capture the milestones and memories for their beautiful family!  And every single time, I felt that same sense of joy when I was with them.  

They love life.  They embrace the chaos.  They find beauty in the mundane...and quite simply, they just make me happy.  It has been such a joy watching their family grow and change.

Spending time with the Mays family is ALWAYS fun...and ALWAYS an adventure!! :)

I am so thankful for this precious family for so many reasons.  I am thankful for their friendship.  I am thankful for the encouragement and confidence they have given me since 2011 to do what I love and just be me.  I am thankful for the wonderful example of "family" that they are to all who know them.  They love deeply & laugh more than most.  They make everyone around them better.  Simply put...they are just special.

Scott & Kristy, THANK YOU!!  Thank you for being with me the longest.  Thank you for your loyalty and for bringing me such joy for the last 7 years!!  You guys are the best!! Love you bunches and can't wait until next time!! :)

If you're reading this and are ready to have your own family's story told, then I invite you to click HERE to read more about the session experience!  I would love to meet you! :)

Don't let this precious time pass without capturing your memories!  You can start your journey HERE!  If you'd like to see more Senior images first, click HERE! :)

Are you interested in having your beautiful story told?!  You can read more about the London's Bridge Photography experience by starting HERE!

  Oh, the love of a big sister!!! LOL!!

Are you interested in having your beautiful story told?!  You can read more about the London's Bridge Photography experience by starting HERE!

I want to thank you all SO MUCH for your support with our "Love Never Fails" fundraiser last week!  Because of your generosity, London's Bridge Photography will donate over $500 to the Children's Heart Foundation!!!  It means the world to me to be able to honor London for Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week!!  Your love & support has made my heart so happy, and I just want to say THANK YOU!!!  I will be personally delivering packages as well as shipping them this week!!  If this is your first time visiting and you're not sure what I'm talking about, you can read about my fundraiser and order your very own Love Never Fails print HERE!  Again, THANK YOU guys so very much!!  

Our hearts were shattered into a million pieces.  Although it has been 10 years already, I am still picking up the pieces.  In fact, I don't think I will ever stop picking up the pieces.  London left her mark on her mommy's heart, and because of that, it is my mission to honor her in every part of my life.  It's my mission to bring awareness to Congenital Heart Defects and to share my story and London's story! 

That is why London's Bridge Photography even exists...and that is why I am choosing to raise awareness and funds for CHD Awareness Week.  To honor London and all babies and children with CHD's, I am choosing to sell one of my images with a simple scripture on it: Love Never Fails. ~1 Corinthians 13:8

This picture is so special to me in many ways.  First of all, my mom gave us this beautiful plant in honor of London.  It's called a "Bleeding Heart" , and it is truly a testament of God's hand being in the details.  The flowers of this plant are perfect little hearts...and the prettiest pink you'll ever see.  They are delicate and perfect.  They bloom for just a little while, and then they're gone until next year.  I always look forward to seeing the first of many little pink heart blooms.  It's like God reminds me, "Ashlee, I'm taking good care of her.  I promise." :)  

This plant reminds me of London, of course, but it also reminds me that God is always there.  His love never fails, even when this life doesn't go as planned.  His love never fails, even when people do.  It reminds me that my love for London never fails and will be as strong the day I die as the first moment I held her in my arms.  Love Never Fails. 

I am selling four print sizes, and ALL PROFITS DURING CHD AWARENESS WEEK (Feb.7-Feb.14) WILL BE DONATED to the Children's Heart Foundation!  Every print will be of the highest quality and mounted for durability and longevity.  I hope & pray that you will support this cause and proudly display this beautiful image in your home, on your desk, or give it as a gift...and always remember that HIS LOVE NEVER FAILS!

Sizes & Prices are as follows:

                                                                          4x6         $12

                                                                          5x7         $16

                                                                          8x10       $20

                                                                          11x14     $40

To order yours, simply click the PayPal button below.  If you are in the Elizabethtown, KY area, I will deliver the print to you.  If you are out of town, I will mail it to you!  Prints will be ordered & delivered after Feb. 14.

I can't thank you enough for your support!! 

Speaking of making my heart swoon...this session pretty much did that.  Not only are these sweet people so full of love, but they are so much fun!  They laughed a lot, teased each other, watched me almost bite the dust a few times (haha), and went along with all of my craziness!  Plus, our time together was even more precious because half of this group lives hours away and are about to move across the country.  I'm so thankful I was able to be a part of capturing all of the love that they share!  

John & Jessica definitely don't look old enough to be grandparents, but they are the best at it!!  These sweet little ones sure do love their "Grandpa & Lolly"!! :)

As much as I love capturing kids and their free spirits, I also love capturing the connections and love between mom & dad!  They deserve a special moment, too!

The bond of sisters...there's just nothing quite like it!! <3

Lolly & her sweet girl had a little heart to heart.  Hayven took a little while to warm up to the crazy lady with the camera, but within a few minutes she was all smiles! :)

It's always my goal to capture moments that make you "feel" something when you look at them.  I don't ever want to settle with simply showing what someone looks like right now.  I want so much more!  Instead, I want to show your personality, your silliness, your laughter, your love & connections.  I want to show you LIVING!!  In honor of London, I always strive to make your "heart smile"!!  Well, this next picture makes my heart smile!    

And this one, too!! <3  A daddy with his sweet boy...

This session was an adventure!  It may have been January, but we played in the creek and loved every second!

Jaxon wanted NO part of standing still for a "guy" picture.  He had exploring to do!!  Look at his face...he was OVER IT :) 

Oh, the joys of being the little brother!!  I think Matthew kinda likes it!! :)

Lolly dancing with her girls <3  Such precious memories!!

Kara may be married with a family of her own, but she will always be his little girl!!

Not sure who Gillian was bossing, but I'm pretty sure they listened the first time! Haha :)

Thanks again, Jennings Family, for a wonderful evening & even greater memories!!  You guys are awesome!!  

To learn more about the London's Bridge Photography Experience, click HERE!!  

Ryan took us to his friend's private property, and we had to hike up to the top of a huge rock/cliff where we could see for miles!  It was absolutely gorgeous!!  Dayna originally said she didn't want to take engagement pictures because she doesn't like having her pictures taken.  Ryan encouraged her to do it anyway, and I am so thankful she did!  Dayna is so beautiful and a total sweetheart.  Her smile is contagious, and her hair...well, what I would give for that hair!!  I would have never, in a million years, have guessed that she didn't like the camera!!  I mean, she doesn't take a bad picture!!  Ryan has such a kind, genuine spirit.  He is so friendly and funny!  They both made me feel so comfortable, and they went with the flow & trusted my vision.

It was an honor to witness their connection and their excitement for their future together!  Although I have decided to book a very limited number of weddings this year, I am thrilled that their big day is on my calendar!!

Dayna told me that she has always loved the way Ryan looks at her...as if she's the only girl in the room.  When I edited their images, that's what I kept thinking!  It's just so natural, and you can tell that he loves her with everything he is! 

They laugh a lot, too!  And Dayna shakes her head at Ryan a lot! Haha :)

Dayna was teasing Ryan because he kisses with his eyes open!! Haha :)  We laughed & laughed!!  Then, Ryan had to show her that he could kiss with his eyes closed!!  He said, "See, Dayna, I can do it.  Let's kiss!  Wait, I don't know where you are!!"  Ryan is hilarious! :)

Good job, Ryan!! LOL :) 

There was a cave-type formation on the property that was just awesome!  Ryan said he and his friends used to camp in it when they were kids!  

Congratulations, Dayna & Ryan!  I can't wait to photograph your beautiful wedding in April!!  Ryan, you better work on kissing with your eyes closed!! Haha :)

Why, you might ask?  Well, because Facebook reminded me this morning that on this day, four years ago, I took my favorite picture I've ever taken!  So, instead of basically telling the story on Facebook, I thought it was worth blogging about!  My favorite picture ever is a picture that truly encompasses everything I strive for in my photography business and in life.  It's a picture of my favorite two little boys in our favorite place...our home.  I always strive to capture moments that truly tell a story and make your heart smile.  This one does that for me.  It makes me so happy, and I never get tired of it.

A little bit about the image...we had been out of school for a week because of snow.  To say we had cabin fever is putting it lightly!  The boys, however, decided to make their own fun and go "sledding on the stairs".  It was their idea to wear the helmets! Haha :)  Safety first!!

Every time I look at it, I can just hear their squeals and laughter!! :)  As much as I love it because it's of my sweet boys, I never dreamed it would impact others literally all over the world like it has!  I have been humbled and pretty amazed at the attention this image has received!

It has been published by Palm Press on a birthday card.  The greeting that the company chose says, "It's your birthday.  Go ahead and break the rules!"  The boys were so excited when our samples came in the mail!

Palm Press sells the cards nation-wide at bookstores and gift shops.  It was exciting one time when our aunt & uncle sent us a picture from Seaside, Florida!  They spotted the boys' card in a bookstore there while they were on vacation!  Another time, our cousin who attends Auburn University saw it in a bookstore there!

The most unique, and quite CRAZY thing that has happened since this picture was put on the internet was one time when a tattoo artist from Australia messaged me on Facebook.  This picture was in his message!!  Where's the "shocked" emoji when I need it??

Yep, you're seeing that right...that is a tattoo of MY BOYS ON A RANDOM STRANGER'S BODY!!!!!!  A random stranger in Italy who was traveling to Australia...who saw the picture on Pinterest, and it reminded him of his childhood.  I freaked out at first.  It made me feel violated and just weird.  However, once I let it sink in, and I got the story from the man, I felt better about it...and in some kind of weird way, I was even a little bit honored.  After all, the image of my boys brought back a feeling of nostalgia and joy for that man.  He and his brother, who had passed away, used to ride down the stairs when they were little.  The feelings were so strong that he decided to permanently tattoo it on his body.  Pictures are so very powerful.  This is an extreme reminder of that!  And, I must admit, the tattoo artist did a phenomenal job!

It was also a huge honor for this image to win the CG Pro Prints "Best in Show" Photo Contest.  It was one of 9 images chosen (out of over 800 submitted) and was displayed at the WPPI Trade Show in Las Vegas.  It was displayed at their booth as a "Statement Piece"...a framed canvas.

It was humbling for it to also win 2nd place in the International Black & White Child Photo Competition in the "Lifestyle" category.  To be recognized among such amazing photographers from around the world was such an incredible honor and blessing.

   I can't tell you how many times I have seen the image randomly posted on Facebook pages and Instagram pages...with writing on it...as an inspiration piece or a piece that is meant to encourage or brighten someone's day.  One that stuck out was an Instagram post from an inspirational page, and it said, "I'm so thankful I had a childhood before technology took over!"  Granted, it used to bother me when I would see my images manipulated without my consent.  However, I learned to let that go, too.  People probably just see it as a "stock photo".  I've realized that the main thing is that it makes people smile.  It makes them feel something.  It reminds them of a great childhood...and that is more important than anything.  

Even if this image had only been seen my me and my family, it would still be my favorite picture I've ever taken.  However, it makes my heart happy that it has brought so much joy to so many people.  I never get tired of seeing it, whether it's my huge canvas that's in our entryway, or on a new Instagram post.  It's been 4 years today since this picture was taken.  I pray that it continues to bring smiles to faces all over the world!!

And because it made me smile today, I want to share the video that popped up on Facebook this morning!  This was taken right before I took the picture! :)  To see my wild boys in action, click HERE! :)

Thanks for letting me share my favorite image with you!  Just remember...if you're snowed in this winter and have cabin fever, just keep your camera close by!  You never know what you might capture...if just might be your favorite picture ever!! :) 

If you've followed my work for very long...especially on facebook, you know that my boys are full of personality and love to dress themselves.  Unless we're going to church (and even then, I pick my battles), I let them express themselves.  There are worse things.  Plus, I love the freedom they have at this age to just be themselves...to not worry about what everyone thinks...to not try to please everyone else.  There is such beauty in that.  I hope & pray that they always feel comfortable in their own skin. 

Having said that, yesterday when we got home from school, Jack (who usually changes clothes about 10 times a day...no kidding) told me that he was going to put on a "King Suit".  I'm used to him changing outfits to match his mood (or whatever he's watching...football, music, baseball,etc.), but I have never heard him say "King Suit"!! LOL :)  I just went with it, and he went upstairs to pick out his clothes.  He came back downstairs with this beautiful combination! Haha!!  He absolutely loves his jacket that a dear family friend gave him, and he loves his "rock star boots" that Santa brought him.  The "top hat" (as he calls it) just really made the outfit complete!  He wanted me to button his shirt all the way up and asked if we had a bow tie.  We didn't....I guess that's next on the list for him! :)  Anyway, after he got dressed in his "King Suit", he asked me to go upstairs and get his horse that he could ride.  I convinced him to bring the horse outside so that it would look like he's riding through a big open field!  Thankfully, he was okay with that...and we had some beautiful sunshine, too! :) 

Along with Jack's crazy outfit, Jagger had his own self-expression going on.  From soccer uniform socks to his fluorescent new shoes...along with his camo jacket (of course), he was lookin' goooood!! LOL! :)  He even hopped on the little horse that he was given when he was a baby! :)

I really think I will look back on moments like these and love them so much more than if my boys were perfectly dressed in clothes that actually match! :)  I absolutely love telling the story of my precious boys and their childhood through images such as these. :) 

*From a photography standpoint, all images were taken with a Canon 5D Mark II, 70-200 f/2.8 IS lens, & edited in Lightroom. 

However, I humbly admit that I have allowed my desire to build my business to take priority over my family this past year. Most of my free time (when I'm not working full time as a special education teacher) has been spent in front of a computer, and I’ve been consistently “too busy” for my family.  My little boys have become used to Mommy saying, "not right now" or "wait a minute".  Going out to eat with my husband has been replaced with editing. 

Although my original prayers of being so busy were answered, I feel I have learned a great lesson.  I have realized that the demands of being overcommitted and spread too thin has made my passion for photography feel like more of a "job".  That realization has been so powerful because I NEVER want photography to become a job! I love & respect it too much for that to happen. I also realize that no matter how much I love photography (and I love it a lot), it defeats the purpose if I put it in front of my family.  Therefore, I have made a prayerful decision to limit the amount of sessions I schedule each month.  I want to focus on quality and staying true to my vision rather than trying to break records for scheduled sessions.  I want to shoot with meaning & purpose, to be intentional, and to never provide a cookie-cutter experience for my clients simply because I'm "too busy". 

With all of that being said, I am looking forward to a refreshed and focused new year…to be the best I can be for my family and for you!  My slogan is "Let your Heart Smile".  I need to get back to letting my own heart smile every time I pick up my camera!  I can’t thank you enough for your incredible love & support!  It means the world to me! <3     

Every October during Fall Break, my whole family goes to Gatlinburg, Tennessee in the Great Smoky Mountains.  We stay in a cabin and the boys love having a hot tub and a pool table :)  This year, we got to see 5 bears walking down the road in front of our cabin!  It was so exciting :)  This year, my sister & I took our boys to the Ripley's Aquarium.  They loved it!  They got to see a scuba guy feeding the fish, got to dig for dinosaur bones at the dinosaur exhibit, and got to see sharks!  Jack had a love-hate relationship with the sharks.  He was amazed, but chewed his nails off the whole time.  We had a great time!

After viewing my "30 minutes in the life", be sure to follow our blog circle and see what fourteen other wonderful photographers around the world captured for their 30 minutes!!  Next up from here is Rebecka LeFoll, Washington Lifestyle Photographer.

I am fortunate to be included in a blog circle with a group of super talented photographers who have chosen to capture "30 Minutes in the Life" every month.  If you know me, you know that I am not a depressing person.  I absolutely love to laugh, to joke, & to have a great time!  I do not take myself too seriously.  However, the month of September tends to bring about my most joyful feelings...and my most sad feelings. 

On September 7, we celebrate our first son, Jagger's birthday.  It is always a day full of fun, laughter, and lots of partying!  Just 4 days after Jagger's birthday, we celebrate our precious daughter, London's birthday.  On September 11, she would have been 6.  It's hard to "celebrate" her birthday without being sad and full of wonder of "what might have been".  It's hard to go to her grave on her birthday when we want nothing more than to be planning her party.  However, this is our life, and for this month, I wanted to share our "30 minutes in the Life" as we wished our precious London Cloe a very happy 6th birthday in heaven.  Don't get me wrong...we know that she's not really "there".  We have full confidence that her sweet spirit is in heaven...where she is laughing and playing and safe in the presence of Jesus.  However, this is where her precious little body was laid to rest...it's where we can go - on this side of heaven - to visit her, to be close to her, and to honor her. 

* Just a side note, London's middle name is "Chloe" without the h.  My Nana, who was one of the most wonderful, kind, loving & devout Christian women I ever knew died when I was pregnant with London.  Her name was Cleo.  Just days before my Nana passed away, I told her that if I had a girl, I would name her after her.  Although Nana was so weak with cancer at the time, she smiled and said she would be honored.  When we found out we were having a girl, we decided to use "Chloe" as her middle name, but spell it Cloe in honor of my Nana.  I find comfort in knowing that my Nana, Cleo, and my sweet London Cloe are together. :)

I know it sounds weird, but this is the place where I feel I can be with all three of my children at the same time. 

When we got there, we noticed that someone had sowed grass, brought a vase of freshly cut flowers, and put angel wings on her angel.  Later we found out it was my mom...London's Grandmommy.  It meant so much to us. 

Thank you so much for taking a glimpse at these precious 30 minutes in my life this month!  Now, please visit the incredibly talented Stacey Markel, Maryland Family Photographer to see what her 30 minutes in the life looked like this month!  ~ Ashlee :) 

Sunday, when we left church, Jagger was holding a paper airplane he had made.  It was his Sunday School paper...he always folds them into paper airplanes.

He flew it up to me as we drove home.  I asked him what they learned about and he said they learned about asking God for help when we need Him.  We talked about the importance of asking God for help and that God is always there for us.  We got home, and I started grabbing all of our junk from the car.  I grabbed his airplane and thought I'd look at it before I threw it away.  This is what it said.

I stopped and took a deep breath.  I covered my mouth and cried.  Jagger's words were so simple, yet so powerful.  He just turned 8 on Saturday, and lately it's as if he has realized the void in his life more than ever before.  He has always talked about London and "missed" her.  However, he seems to understand what he is missing now more than ever, and he has been sad.  He has cried more, asked more questions, shown anger and confusion.  He has grieved.  And he needs God's help.  And so do I.

This is a week that I have been anticipating for a while.  Every year, as the summer comes to an end, the leaves begin to fall, and the air changes, I begin to "go there" again.  The memories of this week start to become very fresh and vivid.  I remember details like no other time during the year.  This is the week that our precious London Cloe came into the world.  It's the week we got to see her and hold her for the first time. 

It's the week that Jagger became a big brother for the first time.

  After months of anxiously awaiting her arrival, it was this week that we finally got to feel her and hear her little grunts.

It's the week that Jonathan held "Daddy's Girl" safe in his arms.

We got to smell her and rub her little head.  We got to swaddle her in pink.

It's the week we got to tell her how much we love her.

We got to pray for her, sing to her, read to her, rock her, kiss her and snuggle with her. 

It's the week I got to see her make a funny face when she didn't want her paci.

It's the week I got to see her wear the same dress that I wore home from the hospital when I was born.  My mom surprised me by bringing this dress to the hospital. 

For two days, regardless of her diagnosis, regardless of knowing that she would endure major open heart surgery, regardless of understanding the risks of the surgery...we got to be London's mommy & daddy.  We got to love her and be with her and admire her and be proud of her.  She was perfect and so very beautiful.  The joy far outweighed the anxiety of her diagnosis.  The excitement of seeing her sweet face and loving her unconditionally for two days far outweighed the heartache that we would soon endure.

This is the last picture I have of her precious face.

It's the week we had to say good-bye...for a lifetime.  That was it.  Two days, and it was over.  All of the anticipation, the hopes & dreams, the preparation...

It was over.  London was gone...and our lives were changed forever.

Tomorrow, September 11, our beautiful little London would be 6.  Every year, I feel like I say the same thing, but I simply can't help but imagine what she would look like, sound like, what she would be doing and playing with and saying.  I wish I could hear her giggle.  I wish I could hear her sing and see her dance. 

I teach Kindergarten special education, so my classroom is in the kindergarten hallway, and I work with students in all of the kindergarten classrooms.  I would be working in London's room.  I would be seeing her in the hall, I would be with her on the playground.  I would eat lunch with her.  I would've brought cupcakes to school tomorrow for her class.  We would've gotten all dressed up this morning for school pictures.  It would've been the sweetest Matilda Jane outfit :)  I wonder if she would have argued with me on how to fix her hair.  Would she be missing teeth in her first school picture?  Oh, my heart aches as I wonder these things.

This week, our hearts are heavy, yet we are thankful.  We are thankful that the Lord shared our precious London for 9 months in my womb and two days in our arms.  We are thankful that we got to see a glimpse of heaven through her and now long for the day that we will be together again.  We are thankful that, although we do not understand His ways or His plan, that we trust Him more because of London.  We are thankful that Jesus died on the cross for our sins so that we could spend eternity with Him and with her.  We are thankful that, although this lifetime away from London seems so very long, it is just a blink of an eye to her.  We are grateful that we have HOPE.

Bleeding Hearts

I thank God for London, that I am her mommy, that I can celebrate her life and her 6th birthday, and that God has given me the opportunity to honor her, share her story, and celebrate her life through photography.  Thank you so much for your support...this week and always!! XOXO

~ Ashlee

When you're finished here, be sure to visit the super talented Cindy Cavanagh of Image 421 to see what her 30 minutes looks like for this month!  Cindy is an incredibly talented family portrait photographer in Albury, New South Wales, Australia!

On this particular night, the boys were really showing off for us!  Jagger was trying lots of new tricks (including his new dive & front flip) and Jack was seeing how far and high he could jump in the shallow end.  He thinks he's big stuff since he can stand up in the shallow end now!  Not only were my boys having a blast, but the evening sun was absolutely dreamy!  I'm such a sucker for sun flare...I love it!   

I can't wait to share 30 more minutes next month!!  Thanks again for stopping by!  When you're finished here, head on over to the super talented Norman, OK Lifestyle Photographer, Allison Wheeler of Poetry & Prose Photography to see what her 30 Minutes in the Life looks like! :)

I was so excited to meet this little cutie pie!  His mommy, Ashley, and I played high school basketball together, but we hadn't seen each other in years!  When Ashley contacted me about taking Liam's pictures, I was super excited to see her again and to meet this little bundle of sweetness!  He was nothing short of adorable, precious, and hilarious!  He wasn't sure about me at first, but we ended up being big buddies at the end! :)

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Judah found this boa in a drawer and immediately said "PARTY"!!  He was having a party, alright!! :)

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This is a pretty typical scene at our house!!!

I'm not one to sleep a lot.  Even on Saturdays, I'm up by 7:30 (crazy, I know).  But, I love just sitting in my favorite pajamas, in my cozy robe, on the couch, drinking my coffee, on the computer, watching TV...enjoying the silence :)  That is, until my little wild man, Jack, wakes up...usually about 30 minutes after I do.  I wish he liked to sleep! 

Jagger, on the other hand, loves to sleep.  He sleeps until at least 10 on days off!  Anyway, we did a whole lot of NOTHING on our day off...and it was awesome!  I had so much fun capturing our day...just the plain old, mundane moments of our day at home...Jack's "rock star" concert, toys all over the floor, left-over pizza, snuggling on the couch, my very favorite (ridiculously tacky) pajamas in the whole world, watching cartoons, playing on the computer, editing pictures, eating "spray candy" (disgusting...they love it), our dog Ruby, flipping off the couch, and other fun stuff... :)

There's something magical about moments such as these.  I know that someday, I will crave these moments once again.  I am so thankful for these wild little boys...and for a job where I can enjoy a snow day...and for a camera that allows me to captures these precious moments!

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This past week, the theme was "Pieces of Me".  The main thing that touched my heart about this theme was my precious family.  They are the pieces of me that make up my existence, my laughter, my tears, my comfort, my joy, my everything.  And I could not think of "Pieces of Me" without thinking of the biggest piece of me that is missing...my precious daughter, London Cloe. 

A piece of our family & our hearts is missing.  The pink piece, the princess, the tutus, the hairbows, the baby dolls, the shopping partner, daddy's girl, bossy pants, our little diva...she's missing. 

Everything I do in my photography business is to honor my precious angel, London, to give back to others in need, and to capture those precious & priceless moments for every person I photograph.

It is with amazing pleasure and extreme excitement that I tell you that my image was chosen as the WINNER for this week's challenge!

To be recognized by Sarah Cornish is absolutely incredible in itself.  For the image selected to be of the four most precious "pieces of me"...is priceless! 

I am so honored & thrilled!!  My heart is truly smiling!! :)  You can view all of the beautiful images at www.myfourhensphotography.com/photographers.

Rock the Shot Forum is a wonderful site with loads of information and inspiration for photographers!  This month, their photo challenge is for us to pick our favorite image taken in 2012.  That was so difficult for me!  Even if they had said choose 5 favorites, I would still have trouble! 

Anyway, this is an image taken of an adorable & wild little boy whom I've had the privilege of photographing a couple of times now.  On this particular session, we went to an ice cream shop & the kids got whatever they wanted!  This cutie chose a chocolate-dipped-sprinkle covered-waffle cone...filled with chocolate ice cream, of course!! :)  When I snapped this shot, he was actually trying to "hide" behind the gigantic cone!  What was left was one beautiful blue eye, a beautifully colored cone, and a smudge of chocolate ice cream on his head! :)

I just love this shot!  Visit www.rocktheshotforum.com!  You'll be glad you did :)

I invite you & encourage you to participate in this change drive!!  Every cent collected will be donated to God's Special Little Hearts (www.godsspecialhearts.org) to help children & families in Kentucky affected by Congenital Heart Defects!  It's a great cause!! 

Plus, there's a great photography deal in it for you!!  Schedule a February session & take the amount you donate off of your total session price!  So, maybe you have a jar with $50 in change...donate that $50, and take $50 off your session! 

I appreciate your support so very much!  It's one more way that London's Bridge Photography can build bridges in order to help others!! 

* I do ask that you count your change if you are planning to schedule a session.  That way, I will know ahead of time how much to discount your session!!  Even if you do not schedule a February session, you are more than welcome to donate!   

If you have questions, please contact me!! 

~ Ashlee

I'd like to think of myself as a storyteller.  I love telling stories anyway, but I've found that my love for storytelling with my camera has grown more and more!  It's very hard for me to narrow down a set number of images to present to my clients.  It's hard to just pitch out images that - although they may not be traditionally "perfect" - they help tell their story.  The laughter, the details, the expressions...real people, real emotions.  That's life, and that's what I love to capture. 

When I began this precious journey - almost 2 years ago - I wanted my logo to tell London's story.  I had the idea...I wanted a heart to hold up the bridge...to represent my sweet London's special heart.  It represented the fact that because of London, I am choosing to "build bridges" through photography ministry and charitable giving.  My brother-in-law's friend and co-worker at the time, "T", was so gracious to take my idea and create a beautiful logo.  It was great, and it still means so very much to me.

However, as time has passed, I have found myself wanting my logo to tell even a deeper story - one with more details, more "color", more "voice".  I want a logo that allows my sweet London to be the main "character".  After months of brainstorming, researching, drawing, coloring, etc., I found www.createlogodesign.com, and decided to give them a try.  Steffi worked endlessly with all of my ideas, drawings, changes, indecisiveness, etc., and created this beautiful "cover" to London's story.

You'll notice that London (as I imagine she would look now as a 5 year old) is walking on "her" bridge, and she's holding 2 little blue birds which represent her 2 brothers, Jagger and Jack.  London's name is more whimsical and informal, and a beautiful tree is waiting on the other side of the bridge.  The colors are bright, happy and full of personality.  

Another change is my slogan.  I still love the idea of "Smile for a Cause".  However, I want my slogan to have a broader meaning, yet still stay true to my mission and my purpose.  So...my new slogan is "LET YOUR HEART SMILE!"

I am super excited about this new change - this new "chapter" in this beautiful story.  To me, this new slogan not only represents London's story in a deeper way, but it also is a reminder that even the darkest times in our lives can become something beautiful if we allow God to use those times and those experiences for His good.   

I really do LOVE this journey.  Thank you for your support and for all of you who have allowed my lens to tell your story!!  :)

My heart is heavy tonight.  My grief is so real tonight as I remember so vividly this night, 5 years ago.  I was awaiting the arrival of my precious little girl, London Cloe Tomes.  I was nervous.  I was scared.  But I was sooo very excited to meet her, to hold her, to kiss on her and smell her, and put her cheeks to mine.  I had waited so long to meet my sweet girl, and although the few months before her birth were anything but "normal", she was still our gift from God - our miracle - our daughter.  It's so hard to believe that my London would be 5 tomorrow.  I see how her brothers are at 7 and 3 years old, and I can only imagine how she would look, how she would act, how she would talk and squeal and laugh!  Oh, my heart just is overflowing with the grief of the unknowns. 

I would do anything in this world to have her here with us - to be planning her party, buying her presents (and getting to shop in the "pink" sections).  How I wish my sweet little girl was here with me.  I think she would be a mini-me.  Really, I think I just want to believe that she would be just like me! :)  After all, I'm a little outnumbered in my house!  I imagine her being my sidekick - my shopping buddy - my pedicure buddy - my little photography model.  How I would love to dress her up in the cutest Matilda Jane outfits...with the cutest bows...to see her twirling in an open field, with her face filled with laughter. 

My heart just hurts tonight.  My heart always has an ache...but these few days, these moments are just so real and so raw right now.  I am sad. 

Having said that...I am so very thankful for the 9 months she danced and twirled in my belly and the two days she was in our arms.  It was not long enough.  It's not how life is supposed to go.  Parents should not lose their children.  A quote that I have heard for a long time that makes a lot of sense to me now is, "Tis better to have loved and lost than to never have loved at all."  As much as my heart hurts right now, I would NEVER in a million years trade the two days I held my daughter in my arms.  Sure...if it never would have happened, I wouldn't feel this hurt.  However, if London never existed, then I would never know the intensity of my love for my baby girl.  I would never have had to cling to my Savior's feet like I have when I had nowhere else to turn.  I would have never known what it was like to find peace beyond all understanding and to move forward when my feet felt that they were in cement. 

Because of London, I am more passionate, more sympathetic, more intense, more patient, more willing, more understanding, and just more of who God wants me to be.  I am determined to make a difference in London's name.  I am determined to honor her, to share her story, and to share the love that God has shared with me. 

I haven't always agreed with Him, and I sure haven't understood Him.  But, I have learned to love Him more than I ever imagined.  I know He loves me, even though my prayers were not answered the way I wanted.  I will never be "satisfied" with losing London, but I have peace in knowing that I WILL see her again, and that one day, my bouncing little girl will run to her mommy, and we will twirl and dance together.  I will hear her say my name!  I know that once we embrace, I will never ever have to let her go again! 

I LOVE YOU, LONDON!!  HAPPY 5th BIRTHDAY, sweet baby girl!!

Today, I truly Celebrate Life...I Celebrate Love...and I Celebrate London.  Thank you to everyone who has supported London's Bridge Photography and the true Cause behind it!  I am so very thankful for you!!

Evan has a great attitude...he gets that from his awesome parents!  His mom started calling him the "Cancer Slayer", and I think it fits him well!  He has had one chemo treatment, and although it made him sick, he came out with a smile...and even said at one point that he "ate cancer for breakfast"!!  He is such an inspiration already!  Evan has a long road ahead of him, but I have confidence that he will come out of this stronger than ever...and will have a testimony that will bless people for a lifetime!

To show love and support to Evan and his family, London's Bridge Photography will host "Smile for Evan" Sessions on September 15 (Sat.)!!  These mini-sessions will cost a flat fee of $150, and $50 of EVERY SESSION will be given to Evan and his family!  No strings attached.  On September 15, not only will you be Smiling for a Cause...you will be Smiling for Evan!  Thank you for your support!  Contact me today to schedule your session!

Anyway, when we planned Jessie's Senior session, it was easy to decide on a location...mainly because it's her home that I use for all of my farm sessions (that you see on my site and facebook).  It's just magical there...barns, chickens, horses, fencing, ponds, amazing sunsets, fountain, peacocks, open fields, dirt lanes, beautiful home...and a river!  I LOVE the river!

Don't let Jessie's beauty fool you...she's a farm girl, through and through!  Got a little dirty...and a little wet...and it was just perfect!! :)

Justin came all the way from Columbia, Missouri for me to take his Senior pictures!!  Okay...he also came to visit family, so I can't take all the credit...but I still feel honored! :)

I was thrilled when his daughter, Kelly, asked me about taking their family pictures.  It was wonderful to see Coach Buckles and his sweet wife, Bonita, in their role as "Nana & Pop".  Their grandchildren are just precious and so full of life.  This is a family that truly shows the love, care, kindness and character that I always saw through Coach Buckles.  We had a great time together, and I am honored that I got the opportunity to help capture their sweet memories!  

Team RBC - Shoppers Drug Mart –TheWeekendTO - Sombilon Photography-49

This family is full of love, kindness, and fun!  I am thankful that I was able to capture such special moments of them together! 

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Just a side note, I'm predicting that Jax is going to be a country music star when he grows up.  Here's why.  His name will be Jax Montgomery!  It just has a country music star ring to it, don't you think?! :)

Congratulations, Katie & Ryan! 

Check out more flower images and more awesome stuff at www.rocktheshotforum.com.

My Mother's Day was filled with Jagger & Jack's giggles & laughter, wrestling, singing and dancing, and okay...a few fights and tears!  A day without those things would be just weird! :)  They have a love-hate relationship!  Grouchy or happy, my boys are here with me, safe in my arms, and healthy, and I am so thankful for that. 

* Yes, they were wrestling in a play pen (aka..the CAGE match!!)  Their baby cousin, Sam, was holding his own in there, too!!

As wonderful and sweet as Mother's Day is for me, it is also very tough, too.  Today, I admit that I'm just sad.  I don't get sad as often as I used to (thank God), but it's just hard to feel "complete" on Mother's Day when my precious 4-year-old little girl is not here.  There is a void in my heart that truly will never be filled, and sometimes (like today), that is just hard to swallow.

Jack has started talking about London a lot lately.  Jagger fills him in when he has questions.  For instance, Jack asked today, "Mommy, is baby London still at the hospital?"  Jagger answered, "No, Jack.  She's in heaven, remember?  Jack, did you know London is not even a baby.  She's older than you.  She's 4 and you're only 3."  We were just driving down the road when we overheard that conversation, and sometimes (like that) it still stings to hear our son talk about London as if she's here with us.  To say her real "age" and to tell Jack that she's "older" than him.  It has always been difficult to hear Jagger talk and ask questions about his "baby sister", but to hear both of her brothers talking about her is very tough!     

Jack asked the other day if London took a train to heaven!  He was so serious when he asked that - bless his heart!  I had to hold my tears back as I explained again how her spirit went to heaven, and she didn't even have to take a train :).  That led to the question, "Well, Mommy, where is heaven?  How do you get there?"  Gosh, I just fumbled over my words and changed the subject after a while.  That's a big subject for a 3-year-old! 

Tonight, when Jagger said his prayers, the last thing he said was, "and God, I pray that London is with you and that she's healthy, Amen."

I am so thankful to know - without a doubt - that London IS with Jesus and that she IS healthy!  That doesn't take my sadness away when I want her here with me, but it gives me peace and comfort, and it reminds me that it's going to be okay.  My situations may change, but God never changes, and He is always good!

My precious friend gave me a beautiful charm with London's picture on it, and I wear it every single day, even if it doesn't go with my outfit! It has my angel's face on the front, and it says, "Joy is Coming" on the back.  I absolutely LOVE this charm, and it's even more special to me because my friend also lost her precious little girl to HLHS just months after London died. 

I know it sounds cliche', but this is why pictures are so special and important to me.  They truly tell a story that words cannot.  They take you back to a "place".  They remind you of a feeling, sounds, smells...they allow you (and me) to never forget the moments that will never come again.  I am so thankful for my precious pictures of my two days with my little girl.  In the same sense, I strive to capture my boys enjoying their childhood and loving life.  It's not always "perfect" and proper and posed.  In fact, most of the time, there's dirt or mud involved, maybe a sword, wrestler, football...you name it...but it's real and it's them, and it's what I want to remember! 

How about you?  Are you capturing your children just as they are?  Or are you always hoping to get their hair just right, their outfits perfectly matched, the ketchup wiped off their face?  I encourage you to take the picture anyway!  Childhood is not always perfect and "clean" all the time, but all of it - and I mean all of it - is precious and beautiful!  So, don't let petty things (like a grouchy face or mismatched clothes) keep you from capturing moments that you will cherish forever! :)