thanks • the hsieh sisters & families • pacific palisades, ca

holidays, little ones, we are family

The last time I photographed Yvonne & Elaine & their families was two years ago. I was preparing myself for how much the kids must have grown since then, but I still couldn’t believe it when I saw them! Shae was still in grade school last time, but now he’s halfway through eighth grade (which makes him closer to being a high-schooler!). And little sister Mia is that blossom of a girl who is just super into soccer & probably has no idea how gorgeous a young lady she’s become. But they’re both still kids enough that snuggling Mom, Elaine, is still cool—which was the most endearing thing to see. And Yvonne’s oldest, Sonia, was just a baby a couple years ago; not so this year! She’s definitely the big girl-older sister to little Tessa, whose little teeth just made the best smile! Here’s to sisterhood, cousins, & being together for the holidays!

holiday hockensmiths • family portraits • palos verdes estates, ca

holidays, little ones, we are family

Oh my gosh, how I adore the Hockensmiths! The first time I met them, I was doing pictures just for Haley, who was just around three years old. Mama Jacque was expecting Hannah at the time. And every year, once in the spring/summer & once in the fall, I’ve had the chance to chronicle the quickly growing girls. Daddy LeRoy is always so fun at our sessions too–he loves having a good time with his gals! I think I feel a special affection for them, because Jacque is a teacher, & Haley & Hannah remind me so much of my own Zoë & Zara. This year, the girls once again looked radiant in red, & I was so happy to find a pocket of sunshine for them to pose in…

finale • fourth of july 2011

events, holidays, little ones, personal, we are family

Every year, we invite family & friends to potluck & enjoy front row seats to see the local fireworks from the balcony of my parents’ house. It’s a late-night gathering, because the fireworks display begins after it’s completely dark–usually around 9:30 PM. As the kids get older, they are more likely to stay awake long enough to see what all the excitement’s about, but every year, there’s at least one littl’un that succumbs to sleep before (or sometimes during) the show. This was my favorite pic from our party this year: Sweet Neave asleep on her Daddy’s shoulder, her parents trying to beat the traffic & heading out before the show was over. In the background, you can see the finale; the foreground, Chris & Shannon catching one last glimpse before heading home at the end of a three-day weekend…

the little red dress • holiday portraits

holidays, little ones, outdoors, studio, we are family

Ah, the holiday dress! Every year, the little princesses arrive, dolled up by their mommies, in the most beautiful taffetas, silks, & chiffons. This year, I thought I might show off a little selection of The Little Red Dress. The holiday spirit gets festive–and frilly!