Matt + Kristen [Lancaster Engagement]

After just five minutes with Kristen and Matt, you can tell they adore each other. With sunny dispositions and kind spirits they’re a delight to be around. He’s from Philadelphia. She’s from New Jersey. Yet they both landed teaching jobs in the Lancaster school district. Before they actually met, Kristen’s photo caught Matt’s eye as he perused the staff directory! After their first few dates, “we knew we were meant to be,” shares Kristen.

Last Easter, Matt planned an egg hunt for her. Each egg contained chocolate and a note regarding significant events in their dating relationship. Kristen didn’t suspect a proposal; in fact, she was expecting a puppy (ha!) After the 10th egg, Kristen glanced at Matt—expecting to see a puppy—and saw him get down on one knee. She exuberantly said “yes,” and they celebrated with friends and families (Matt had arranged a surprise engagement party. Well done!)

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What a fun engagement session! We strived to showcase their love story by incorporating a few of their favorite spots in Lancaster city. First stop? Lancaster Cupcake and then their favorite downtown park (to play Frisbee like they frequently do! And to enjoy the cupcakes, of course.)

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They both have such genuine smiles! They frequently play frisbee here, and Matt's even in a traveling frisbee league! 

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They're going to make a gorgeous bride and groom! We captured a few shots at their house, located near the city. This is also where Matt proposed during the egg hunt : ) 

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Lancaster city never disappoints--so many charming spots!

Maddi [Hershey Senior Portraits]

Let’s start with the obvious. Maddi has the prettiest red hair ever! She was such a natural beauty in front of the camera. There’s nothing quite like photographing a high-school girl and capturing the essence of them. I love when they’ve warmed up to me—and my camera—enough to say, “Can I kick off my shoes? I’m over it. I prefer walking around barefoot!” My response? Great…that's you. So let’s do it. Who is Maddi? An adventure-seeker. A passionate soul. A contagious laugher (this is quite evident in the photos!) A musical gal (leads worship at her church and sings in choir at school.)

It’s so evident that this young lady already has a good grasp on life. Her plans after high school include the long but rewarding road of becoming a pediatrician. There’s no doubt in my mind that she’ll join the medical field with vigor and success.

[A big shout-out to the wonderful makeup artist, Kristen, who is quite talented.]

The evening light + Maddi's hair = magical combination!  Seriously, girl!!? You rocked it! Another of my favorites. I love the care-free laughter.

Madi [Lancaster Apple Orchard Senior Portraits]

Senior sessions are always special, but it’s extra meaningful when I’ve known the client for years. Seems like just yesterday that Madi was the toddler I babysat; she and her brother gave me my first (and last) drum lesson! They had serious rhythm. I did not. ;) Madi has become a strikingly gorgeous young lady! She exemplified such grace and poise in front of the camera, as you’ll see. And what a perfect background: an apple orchard. A pretty peach dress. The glowing sun setting. I was a happy photographer!

As for future plans, Madi is a talented lacrosse player; she plans to play for a college while majoring in business or psychology. She is a driven and outgoing individual, and I’m sure great things are in store!

A favorite!  There's something about this picture and the reflection in her eyes.  Ummm, Madi!? So gorgeous!! We also spent part of the shoot in a garden setting. Don't y'all love her colorful maxi dress?