The Staum family’s session was one of those that proved a little flexibility goes a long way. We had originally planned to capture their photos at Fort Snelling, the place where they got married — such a meaningful full-circle idea! But when the weather just wouldn’t cooperate, we made a last-minute change and met instead at Union Depot in downtown St. Paul.

Union Depot turned out to be the perfect backdrop — its beautiful architecture, soft light, and shelter from the elements gave us everything we needed to make the session special. The kids started out a little shy (as many do), but that quickly faded once the umbrellas came out and we took a few playful photos outside. Before long, the laughter, movement, and sibling silliness took over — the best kind of energy to photograph.

By the end of the session, the Staum kids were full of giggles and confidence, showing off their personalities and the sweet relationships that make this family so special. Watching their connection unfold in front of the camera was such a joy — the kind of session that reminds me why I love documenting families through each season of life.
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Hopefully, these images will always bring them back to this chapter — the in-between of growing kids, laughter in the rain, and the beauty of just being together.

The Cross family’s session at Lake Rebecca Park in Hastings was one of those evenings that makes you pause and take it all in — the golden light filtering through the trees, the sound of laughter, and the quiet joy of family simply being together.
Elise and Jeff came with their three kids and it was so fun to see the personalities of each shine through. From giggles to twirls to playful sibling moments, they made the park come alive with their energy and connection.

Since we last saw each other, their family has been on an incredible adventure — traveling through Israel, exploring places like Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and even seeing the Dead Sea Scrolls in person. Jeff teaches Old Testament History at the University of Minnesota, so this trip was more than sightseeing — it was walking through the pages of the stories he teaches, bringing history and faith to life.

As we walked along the trails and watched the sunlight reflect off the lake, we talked about the beauty of seeing the world through your kids’ eyes and how quickly the seasons seem to change — both in nature and in life.

This session felt like so much fun! I love all the giggles, all the playing, and all the specialness of relationship. I loved getting to capture this moment in time for the Cross family before another fall season passes by!

Meet Fisher — a Park High School Class of 2026 senior whose calm confidence and genuine kindness made this session such a joy. We met at Lake Rebecca Park in Hastings, MN on a perfect fall evening to capture his senior portraits surrounded by warm light and colorful leaves.

Fisher is active in Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) at school and has a heart for both ministry and sports management. After graduation, he’s looking toward attending the University of Northwestern, where he hopes to study, head into seminary, and eventually step into coaching. It’s a combination that fits him perfectly — leadership, encouragement, and a quiet strength that naturally draws people in.

When he’s not studying or serving, you’ll likely find Fisher playing baseball, snowboarding, or golfing — he even works at River Oaks Golf Course & Ice Arena. His easygoing personality carried through the entire session, and when he saw one of his photos, he smiled and said, “Lowkey aura.” Couldn’t agree more.
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Fisher, thanks for such a great evening and for letting me capture this milestone. Your future is bright — and your grounded, faith-filled heart is going to make a lasting impact wherever you go.

This session was extra special. I’ve known Abby for over 12 years through our church, and watching her step into motherhood has been one of the most joy-filled experiences. Her heart for the next generation shines in everything she does — from coaching and teaching to volunteering and loving so many kids (including my own!).

This past summer marked the start of her official motherhood journey as she adopted sweet Nevaeh — and what a gift it was to be able to celebrate with them on that day and, now, to capture their first official family portraits together. We met at Lake Rebecca Park in Hastings, MN on a gorgeous fall day, surrounded by soft light and golden leaves. Nevaeh’s radiant smile and Abby’s gentle yet confident joy made every image a reflection of love, connection, and answered prayers.
Abby has long been a favorite in the Wiggins household — the one who let our kids do all the sports play, laugh endlessly, and, of course, watch her famous Brazilian monkeys video on repeat. Seeing her now as “Mom” feels like such a full-circle moment.
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Abby and Nevaeh, thank you for letting me capture this new chapter. Your story is a beautiful reminder that families are built through love, faith, and the incredible grace of God.

The Leppke family has been in front of my camera for years — back when they were just a family of four! It’s always such a joy to reconnect and see how their family continues to grow and change. This year’s fall mini session at Lake Rebecca Park in Hastings, MN was filled with laughter, love, and a chance to catch up.

We chatted about their homeschooling adventures, how fast the kids are growing, and soaked up the golden fall light that made the park glow. And in true family fashion, we even convinced grandpa and grandma to jump in for a few photos — something they hadn’t planned on, but couldn’t resist once they saw how much fun everyone was having and were encouraged to!

Sessions like these are a beautiful reminder that family photos are more than just pictures — they’re little glimpses into each season of life. I’m so grateful to continue capturing the Leppke family’s story and the love that shines through in every moment we share together.