Photographing people is my first love as a photographer, yet it sets my heart free to explore a new outdoor venue or revisit an old favorite with my camera in hand. When I lived in Bozeman, MT about three years ago, outdoor adventures happened at least weekly and were the perfect breath of fresh air to any stress in my life. Having 2 kiddos, moving to MN and maintaing a fast growing business drastically changed my lifestyle. I wouldn’t trade any of my developments over the last three years, but I have missed the zen I felt at the end of a long, majestic hike or bike or ski tour or trail run… It all came rushing back to me for a moment when one of my older brothers, Tony, wanted to guide me and our 4 kids all 4 and under on an adventure. He promised me a peaceful waterfall and budding wildflowers. He had me hooked. I never quite know what to expect when it comes to Tony since he is a legend amongst his cohorts for his bold athletic pursuits & accomplishments. What he says is easy might be completely unobtainable for some or down right dangerous. It was raining in Stillwater this past Saturday and my husband was doing some remodeling in our house, so I figured it was as good of a day as any to load up the mini van and see what awaited us. I’m glad we did. It wasn’t easy with the 4 kids, and there were some sketchy obstacles, but we made it. I couldn’t get the trip off my mind and wanted to return without kids in tow, so I took my husband there the next evening, minus the kids, and snapped a few more images. My stress feels a little bit lighter. I might not be able to frequent the private location as often as I’d wish, but the photographs certainly help bring me back.
.jpg "IMG_3457")
.jpg "IMG_3383")
.jpg "IMG_3564")
Photo Below: Tony and the kiddos enjoying the rushing water as I snapped the tree arch shot from above. The kids had a great time!
Photo Below: Following our hike at the waterfall area, we loaded the mini van back up, and Tony told me to go for a walk out to this old bridge. He and the kids safely stayed behind. There are two things I love about these railroad tracks and bridge. First, the other side of the river is very close to the house I was raised in until I was 7. I have many fond memories there, and my parents still have an 8X10 of my first dog, Moose, on this bridge. Second, pretty much every professional photographer I’ve come across has done a photo session on railroad tracks. -not me. Finally, though there is not a human subject present, I have professionally photographed railroad tracks! With this image, it’s safe to say I have arrived and will hopefully be accepted into the exclusive railroad photography club. 😉
Photo Below: Blooms at my parent’s current home.
WOW these are completely stunning! I love them. 🙂