I am thrilled for Alicia and Luke as they approach the arrival of their first son.  Alicia is just beautiful! Not too many people can pull of a summer photo session in AZ 8 months pregnant while looking AMAZING… but somehow, Alicia does it effortlessly!

I am so excited to introduce our guest blogger, my amazing sister-in-law, Lindsay Marriott.  Lindsay is not only an amazing writer, but she is also super creative, has a great sense of style, and has a background in photography!  We are blessed to have her on-board with some regular posts about life, fashion, family, and photography.

I remember the first time I held a proper SLR camera- the weight of it, the feel of it, the neat snap of the camera’s lens. I was hooked. It was a gift for my 13th birthday, and I remember going with my father to a used camera store to find it. I took rolls upon rolls of blurred black and white images of my friends, my neighborhood, my feet (why always the feet phase?!), and any other pretty sight I came upon. I never quite recovered from those first experiences behind the lens, and still light up at the opportunity to capture someone’s beauty, personality, and love with the power of photography. It’s a potent power to be sure, and my sister-in-law, Marnee, is an expert!

So when she asked me if I would be interested in writing for her blog all about photography, fashion, style, kids, family, wedding, and random thoughts… I was (and AM) elated! Allow me to introduce myself- my name is Lindsay Marriott and I will be guiding you through the incredible world of Marnee’s thoughts, insights, and advice for YOU! Today we’ll be talking about how to personalize your engagement photoshoot so that it best expresses your style and relationship!

Engagement shoots are a beautiful way to express through images YOUR STORY of love and life! Ever hear the saying that a picture is worth a thousand words? Here it is especially true, as you can tell a whole story about a couple through their engagement shoot- whether it’s how you met, what you love doing together, or how you plan to spend the rest of your lives! Here are some hints to get you started…

1. Make a list of activities or places you and your betrothed enjoy together– Do you often go to the bookstore together? The coffee shop? Are you both passionate about films, or hiking, or board games?  Do you enjoy going to the lake, or on bike rides? Are swimming or dancing important to you? Let your photos show you in your element doing things you love!

2. Find which style most defines you– Modern, contemporary, urban grunge, traditional, vintage, old world, eclectic, etc. Your photos should present you in the style that best reflects who you are!

3. Ask yourself- what do you hope to get out of an engagement session?  Do you simply want images to share on Facebook, or would you like a cool coffee table guest book that reveals your personality as a couple? Are you looking for one large image to hang in your home, or do you want a collection of images to showcase at the wedding? Do you want to give them out as gifts to your families? Send as a holiday card? Or do you have no idea- someone just told you that you NEEDED to get engagement pics! Lol! Communicating your expectations with your photographer can help them to get the shots that will best fit your needs!

4. Think- what is your story? Who proposed to whom? How did you first meet? Where are you getting married? How is that significant to you? Are there any other details that are important to you and your fiancee? Any or all of these can spark an idea, a theme for your photoshoot that is personal and meaningful for you- your joy will show in your photos!

5. Keep in mind- props are fun, but the images are often more special when they are more about the couple– That’s YOU!  If you decide props are the way to go, make sure they don’t take away from what the images are all about- you and your betrothed! Your photographer can help you find a balance that will enhance the images you are looking to create.

6. Clothing is key– What kind of message are you hoping to convey with these photos? Your clothing is part of that message! Your photographer can help you to choose colors and a style that fits the type of images you want.

7. BE YOURSELF– As tempting as it may be, don’t try to mimic what someone else did in THEIR engagement shoot because it looks cute. The very best images are those that have a connection to you! Of course it’s great to get inspiration from others, but trust us, your images will be so much more beautiful and meaningful to you when they truly reflect what makes you and your love special!

Of course, themes are great, but you don’t have to have one! Your photographer can help you pick a style and get great images at a location that fits your personality and tastes!

Don’t know where to start? Looking for a little inspiration to get you started? Check out these fun images for ideas, and let us know what gets you excited! Marriott Photography can help you design an experience that truly captures what makes YOU beautiful!  Good luck!

I had a great night with the •W• Family.  These little girls are full of energy, spunk, energy, smiles, energy, and hugs!  I just love their beautiful classic clothing with the rich greenery and beautiful Arizona sunset.

Miss Railey is growing up!  18 month old now and just as cute as can be.  I love her sense of fashion!

Happy Birthday to my little girl.  It’s a bitter-sweet day celebrating my baby’s 5th birthday!  I think 5 is the official age where you have to admit that you no longer have a baby around the home anymore.  She’s off to kindergarten, quite independent, and all grown up.  Honestly, I am in LOVE with this age and with her sweet personality.  She somehow has each of us wrapped around her little finger. As she aptly put tonight, “Mom, you are the bestest mom in the whole world because you give me lots of hugs and kisses, play with me, and give me everything I want.”  Ugh.  She has me figured out already at 5.  We may have some problems in the future!

Kate has the best imagination around.  She loves to make-believe play and role-play.  She loves writing and anything to do with art.  This past year as I tried desperately to sit and read with her, she would say, “Mom, I don’t need to learn how to read.  I can make these stories up better in my head!”

She is truly our princess tom-boy who wanted to have a football tea-party (but instead agreed to a fish & mermaid swim party).  She can keep up with her older brothers, wrestle them to the ground, and get them to play dress up and house/dolls with her all day long!

We love her energy, her enthusiasm,  and her kind heart.  She truly is a blessing in our family, and so happy to celebrate this big day with her.  Kate, we love you!

Here’s a few pictures from her over-the-top 5th birthday Mermaids & Fish Swim Party.