Ashley Henry Photography

Angie & Kelly: Part III Cocktails & Dinner Party, San Diego Yacht Club

2012-01-22T20:30:00.000-08:00

Angie & Kel's party made for the perfect evening. It started out with cocktails and appetizers on the lawn and moved upstairs to a fabulous dinner buffet. All the details came together amazingly well thanks to the very talented wedding planner, Amy Kuchta, from In the Moment By Amy. She did such a great job on coordinating everything and taking care of all the details--not to mention she was SO nice to work with. Check out her site to see more of her work.

The Photobooth was a BIG hit by all! And made for some great memories. :)

And to end the evening there was LOTS of dancing.

Congrats again Angie & Kel! So grateful I gotten to capture all these special memories for you!!

Angie & Kelly: Part II Ceremony, San Diego Yacht Club

2012-01-21T22:26:00.000-08:00

Every time I look at these pictures I find myself smiling! Such a beautiful ceremony....smiles, laughs, tears--it had it all.

Angie & Kelly's adorable pup was the ring bearer! Too cute!!

Angie & Kelly: Part I

2012-01-03T22:41:00.000-08:00

This summer wedding at the San Diego Yacht Club was beautiful, fresh, and so much fun. Angie, Kelly and their families were just amazing to work with, and the San Diego Yacht Club created the perfect setting for their day.

We started off getting some shots of Angie getting ready....

Angie & Kelly decided to see each other before their ceremony so we could have plenty of time for pictures and then go straight into the reception once the ceremony was over--so nice! We did a "first look" so we could still capture the moment when Kelly saw Angie for the first time. It was so sweet and maybe I even got teary-eyed. :)

Then we got to explore the Yacht Club and all the docks. Such an AMAZING setting to shoot at! LOVED it!

Ceremony and reception photos coming soon!

Winter Light

2011-12-21T22:41:00.000-08:00

I'm kinda obsessed with engagement photos lately. Something about two people totally in love, gorgeous setting, perfect light, no stress of the wedding day....geez, what more could you ask for??!! This couple was particularly amazing though. I'm so lucky we got to squeeze in a shoot last minute during my whirlwind of a < 48 hour trip to Salt Lake. I love the soft warm, winter light in these but how you can also just feel the crispness in the air. I haven't done a winter shoot....well, ever really. Southern Cal spoils me. :) And while I'm glad to be back in my warm beachy weather, it sure was fun to try something different.

Enjoy this wintery sneak peek of this GORGEOUS couple! Seriously, I feel like I have the best clients ever. So blessed.

A Season to GIVE: An Auction for the Gray Family

2011-12-12T23:27:00.000-08:00

Tonight I heard the news that a great person and friend from high school, Troy Gray, ended his battle with Leukemia. Both he and his wife Kelly are dear people and my heart is heavy as I think of them and their two sweet babies. I have so many great memories of Troy and I know he will be dearly missed by many.

Life really is SO precious and SO fragile. Every second of it. And this very reason is one of the main ones why I love my job and am so very grateful I can capture memories and moments that can be remembered forever.

(Troy & Kelly with their two sweet babies Garrison & Aven. October 2011.)

And in the spirit of this holiday season and in the memory and honor of a wonderful person and his dear family he leaves behind, I am auctioning off a family photo shoot to the highest bidder (must be in either Phoenix or San Diego).

If you would like to bid please email me at ashleyjhenry@gmail.com with the amount of your bid. The auction will be silent and will go until Wednesday, December 21st at 11 pm pst.

ALL PROCEEDS will go directly to Kelly Gray.

In return for your precious donation you will get:

One full family photo shoot

1-2 hours of photography time at up to 2 locations

All high resolution images from shoot + selection of professionally retouched images on a disk with all printing rights included (25-35 professionally retouched)

Black and white and color versions of each retouched image

One 11x14 professional print mounted on styrene

Once again, please email me with any questions and with your bids at ashleyjhenry@gmail.com.

And if you aren't able to bid but would like to help please share the offer with anyone and everyone!

To read more about Troy and Kelly or find other ways you can help, please visit http://www.caringbridge.org and search "troygray".

Thank you all!!

Families, Families, Families: San Diego Family Photographer, Phoenix Family Photographer

2011-12-12T23:00:00.000-08:00

Please excuse my sparse posts these days....I've been trying to keep up with ALL these cuties and so many more (not to mention my own!). Tis the season for family pictures!! As always, can't wait to share all the fun things I've been working on and will soon! So many weddings and engagements and families still to be shared--this is just scratching the surface...for reals! Stayed tuned, but for now here are some more sneak peeks.....

Stella

2011-11-30T14:02:00.000-08:00

Look who I got to meet this weekend.

My sweetest niece

Estelle Mae.

Have you ever seen two more beautiful ladies?

Hoggin' the gene pool I tell ya. :)

Oh what I would give to not have hundreds of miles between us.

A Sneak Peek for Arwen.....

2011-11-15T10:58:00.000-08:00

Just had to get a quick peek up for this patient couple. LOVED, LOVED their shoot! Can't wait to show more!!

Happy November

2011-11-01T09:58:00.000-07:00

And a quick peek for Theresa & Steve at their fabulous engagement session I'm currently swooning over. Aren't they lovely?

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T23:10:00.000-07:00

Hope you had a spooky time! We sure did!

And since I was lucky to even get a couple pictures of my Halloween kiddies since they like to run circles around me when the camera comes out, I figured I share a couple quick snaps. I just can't get enough Halloween!

Baby Scarlett

2011-10-27T11:08:00.000-07:00

Newborns really just are the sweetest.

This pretty girl is such a lucky gal. She has 3 big brothers and an awesome Mom and Dad. She is gonna be one loved little lady!

Here are just a few from our session:

He Said She Said Workshop

2011-10-22T16:46:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I had the great great privilege of attending the He Said She Said Workshop by Jean & Travis Smith in Michigan. I was so fortunate to win a spot being given away to the workshop from the MCP Actions blog. I had been eyeing the workshop for a few months, admiring Jean & Travis's work and when I saw the giveaway I never thought I'd get the spot, but I DID and I could NOT have been more thrilled!!! I promptly booked my flight to Detroit and a few weeks later I was on my way.

The Workshop was really an incredible experience. So many talented people. Two AMAZING teachers who not only were so full of knowledge and had such great content in their class, but they were also so inspiring and completely open about everything. Not to mention FUN! And the nicest people you'll meet on the planet. They shared so many great ideas, tips, techniques, etc. my brain was literally on overload and I'll be lucky to take in half of it! But I truly loved every second and couldn't soak up enough. My passion for photography was completely renewed and I remembered all over again why I really just LOVE, love, love love taking pictures. It makes me so happy.

Honestly, if you are at all considering investing in a workshop or training in the next year, don't walk, RUN to their class because it will be well worth your time, investment, and the networking opportunity. Enough said. :)

The first day of the workshop was all about lighting. So many awesome suggestions and ideas with new lighting equipment! I'm already loving playing with Off Camera Flash I can feel an addiction coming on. Yeah!!! The next day we covered everything under the sun, from lighting (natural and artifical) to editing to business topics. So helpful and so informative. Both days we got quite a bit of time to shoot models and try things out. It was great to attempt some new things, ask questions, and just take pictures of some really beautiful people! :) Here are some of the photos I came away with.

These next few pictures were super fun for me because they are TOTALLY different than anything I've ever done or attempted to do. All off camera lighting with a high fashion feel. So fun to go out of your comfort zone once in awhile!

I still have so far to come and always want to push myself to improve, so this was such a great way for me to take a step in that direction. Such a great experience!

For Lu

2011-10-13T23:49:00.000-07:00

Just a little peek of who I got to meet tonight.

Good job to my dear friend Lu for making such a perfect little peanut.

Fall Madness

2011-10-13T11:45:00.000-07:00

Can't BELIEVE it's already October. It's amazing how fast life speeds by when you are having fun. :)

I also can't believe that I'm almost completely booked up for the fall and family sessions. I haven't even had a chance to put a note up on the blog yet. SO....if you are really wanting a family session, PLEASE email me this week to check availability as it is VERY limited and I won't be scheduling anything during the month of December. Thank you to all my wonderful clients who make this time of year so fun!

And of course, so much blogging to catch up on AS ALWAYS. I know, I know. But when life gets crazy the blog is on the back burner for a bit. :) So don't fret, SO much good stuff coming soon. Here are just a couple peeks to prove it. And there is lots more where these came from. :)

Happy Fall!!!

Jessica & Drew: Wedding Day Part II - The Grand Tradition

2011-09-20T17:30:00.000-07:00

Jess & Drew had their reception at an incredible venue in Fallbrook called The Grand Tradition. It was so green and beautiful and all around just a gorgeous spot! The details of the dinner and reception were amazing and the whole evening was just beautiful.

For this wedding I was so fortunate to have a wonderful friend second shoot/assist for me at the reception-- Mariah Baddas. I haven't posted any of her images here but I'm sure she'll have some of her work posted soon so check out her site in the coming weeks. She was such a huge help and I'm so grateful to her for coming last minute!

We started with some pictures of Jess getting ready in the brides room. Isn't she perfection?!

The grounds at the Grand Tradition are landscaped so beautifully and were perfect for pictures.

Jessica & Drew: Wedding Day Part I

2011-09-20T16:37:00.000-07:00

Ahhh....I LOVED this wedding! So bright, so summery, so happy, so fun.

Jess and Drew were a perfect Bride and Groom and made my job a delight.

Pictures from the rest of their day and their GORGEOUS reception at The Grand Tradition coming very soon!

Jessica & Drew: Engaged

2011-09-12T23:27:00.000-07:00

So excited to be sharing another great couple!

Meet Jessica & Drew.

I loved how happy they were--so easy-going and just totally and completely in love. And it was so refreshing to see just how much they enjoy each other and how much fun they have together. So contagious.

We had the perfect summer evening down in Seaport Village and got super excited for their AMAZING wedding day!

Sunday Afternoon

2011-09-12T15:29:00.000-07:00

This little lady adores her Daddy.

And I don't blame her one bit.

So in love with these two.

Jaimie & Brandon: Wedding Day Part II

2011-08-31T00:15:00.000-07:00

Reception:

Their reception was held at a family friend's home and everything about it was stunning and fit perfectly with the Italian feel they were going for.

Between the wedding and the reception we had some down time so Jaimie met back up with the ladies to get prepped again for the evening.

A view from the upstairs balcony. Just amazing!

The party was so elegant with an Italian vibe. The decorations and flowers were perfectly simple yet chic. The food & gelato were divine. And the dancing was crazy. What more could you ask for??!

I am so so honored to have been a part of your day.

Congratulations!

Jaimie & Brandon: Wedding Day Part I

2011-08-30T23:36:00.000-07:00

Jaimie & Brandon's wedding day was beautiful, down to every last detail. So please pardon the giant posts but the storyteller in me just can't bear to leave any more out than I already am! :)

Getting ready:

At the Mesa, AZ Temple:

Jaimie & Brandon: Bridals

2011-08-29T20:52:00.000-07:00

I'm blogging a little out of turn but figured since I have a lot of posting about these two to do I'd get started! And since they are hot off the press I thought it'd be fun to share! I've already gushed over these two, so I'll keep it short and sweet. Needless to say.....GORGEOUS couple. Seriously, straight out of a magazine. Loved being their photographer. :)

A couple days before their wedding we did a bridal/groomal session at the AZ Mesa Temple and at the Desert Botanical Gardens in Phoenix. I LOVE when we can split things up on separate days like that!! We did a "first look"set up so that it was still special when Brandon got to see Jaimie for the first time and then we were able to get lots of great more artistic shots in better light than we would have at high noon on the wedding day. Worked out great and so pleased with the result!

I'll start with one of my very favs...

Jaimie's dress and veil were stunning and were just perfect for her! She couldn't have looked more beautiful!

The Botanical Gardens were INCREDIBLE. I loved that Jaimie really wanted something that felt very AZ authentic for her bridals' location. I could have shot there all day! Can't wait to go back.

Wedding day pictures coming soon!!

Sorry Ladies....

2011-08-23T23:58:00.000-07:00

But this BIG 4 year old is taken! And he is ALL mine. :)
Happy Birthday to my sweetie. Oh how I love this man!

My favorite kind of photoshoot....
took all of about 5 minutes. He ran in and picked his own outfit so he could look "cute". And I just snapped away while he did his own perfect silly thing that is exactly like the boy I love. Barely any editing because I like him just how he is and even want to remember that dark tooth that he tripped and bonked on a porcelain toilet. Oh man, being his Mom WILL give me ulcers one of these days. :) But I couldn't love this bug more and so glad he is MINE!

Ava

2011-08-23T21:55:00.000-07:00

Tonight I read one of the "Olivia" books to my little boy at bed time and now as I'm going through these pictures ready to blog I'm completely reminded of Olivia in the book and just how fun and energetic and hilarious 3 year old little girls are! That is Ava! She was just a crack up to photograph and so sweet and cute. I loved getting to chase her around and see yet again just how many expressions kiddos can possibly come up with in only a matter of minutes. And for some reason it's just SO much more fun chasing someone else's children around for a change rather than my own now and then. :)

John-Isaac & Shaelee: San Diego Wedding, San Diego Wedding Photographer, San Diego Temple

2011-08-23T21:13:00.000-07:00

Several months back I had the opportunity to take some wedding pictures for these two lovebirds. They are old family friends and their family is very dear to my heart, so when I heard they were eloping in San Diego and needed a photographer I was thrilled! They traveled all the way from Colorado in January so we made sure to spoil them with some amazing California weather. We of course had to get some beach shots in too and the evening couldn't have been more beautiful. Luckily these two were a ton of fun, adventurous, and up for whatever so we had ourselves a great time. Thanks for sharing your day with me you two! I feel extra privileged that I was the only one. :) Love you guys!

Jaimie + Brandon: San Diego Wedding, San Diego Wedding Photographer

2011-08-03T12:26:00.000-07:00

I just love this couple. Since I've been buried deep in their wedding photos I figured it was high time I at least post their engagement session! :) They were literally a dream to work with. And their engagement photos were easily some of my favorites. And if you think Jaimie is just stunning in these photos, wait until you see more of her as a bride. Will take your breath away!!

Such a beautiful day at Balboa Park and they were the perfect pair to enjoy it with!

Wishing....

2011-07-27T11:24:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: So you know that feeling of how it seems like you enter all these things and never win any of them??? Well not this time!!! Can't believe I got drawn for the free seat! Detroit, here I come! So excited to attend this workshop and learn from some great mentors!

YIPPEE!!!!

My name would get drawn for this awesome give away. Looks like an incredible workshop!!! Thanks MCP Actions.

Ruby Lou

2011-07-20T21:23:00.000-07:00

This tiny babe is now 6 months old and one of my favorite little babes around. She is destined to be besties with my Scarlett--which is convenient since her mama is mine. :)

Love this baby girl and loved getting to take her very first beauty pics.

Isn't she just amazingly beautiful and perfect?!

Ruby Louise

Oh and by the way, this baby girl has 3 big sisters who just adore her. Isn't she the luckiest little lady??

Andrea & Tyler: San Diego Wedding Reception

2011-07-06T22:17:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know this post is ridiculously long, but I just can't help it! Andrea and Tyler's reception was just adorable with so many perfected details and beautiful things to look at. I feel like you need all the pictures to tell the story of what a gorgeous and intricately planned evening it was! I really loved how the entire party and all the decor was a reflection of them and their personalities and it was bright and cheerful with a perfect little vintage twist on it all. I had a hay day taking detail shots because the light was incredible and everywhere I looked there was something pretty. It is SO fun to capture all the details that brides and wedding planners have worked so hard to plan for months.

It was such a fun evening and I hope you get the essence of it through the photos!

Congrats again A & T!

Andrea & Tyler: San Diego Wedding Photographer, San Diego Temple, Pacific Beach

2011-07-05T11:15:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm only about, oh, 6 months late in posting this wedding. Better late than never right?! :)

Andrea and Tyler are about the sweetest people you'll ever meet. So down to earth, laid back, easy-going, kind, and all around just insanely easy to work with. Lucky me.

Loved them and loved being a part of their special day!

We also got to take some bridals down at Pacific Beach. It was especially cool because Tyler's family has deep roots in PB and so the location was particularly personal to them. It was a gorgeous evening and we had a blast as usual!

Pictures from their reception coming right up!!

Summertime, the Beach, and Family

2011-06-28T13:50:00.001-07:00

Does it get much better??!!

Loved taking pictures for this darling couple celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary in Coronado with all their beautiful children and grandchildren!

More to come! :)

Just a peek..

2011-06-17T11:35:00.000-07:00

Because I can't resist!

The Season of Love

2011-06-15T08:36:00.000-07:00

Getting so excited for all my summer weddings!! Can't wait for Jaimie and Brandon's festivities this weekend. In the meantime, we are enjoying some serious sunshine and fun in Arizona.

Lots and LOTS of catch up posts coming soon! Promise! ;)

The Kings

2011-05-17T14:20:00.000-07:00

Meet Lily and her parents....

Lily's Momma, Suzanne, is one of my dearest friends from high school, and a more wonderful person you will never meet--I guarantee you that! Suz is just amazing and I felt so honored to photograph her sweet little family. I love seeing her as a Mom. Lily is one lucky lady to have her. But on the other hand, that Lily girl is such a cutie, I'm sure her Momma feels the same about her. :)

They are just the most adorable family you can imagine and I love them to pieces!

Austin and Suzanne really wanted a photo shoot that had an urban/city feel so Austin helped us find some great spots in downtown Phoenix to shoot. They really love modern architecture and design too so I thought this was a great idea and would be perfect for their style. I love what we came away with! Here are some favs...so hard to narrow down!

I love that little stink face!

And a couple just as the light was setting.

Love you guys!

A Little Peek...

2011-04-11T23:47:00.000-07:00

At this drop dead GORGEOUS couple,

Who's engagement photos I've been drooling over the last few days--because honestly, could you pick a more darling pair to photograph? Not to mention they are SO beautiful and SO in love its contagious, and the light was just delicious this particular afternoon.

I seriously can't get myself to stop working on them! AHHH!!!

I can hardly wait to photograph Jaimie and Brandon's June wedding in Arizona!

Here are a few favorites for a little preview of what's to come. SO excited to show the rest one of these days. :)

Hudson

2011-04-05T13:07:00.000-07:00

Newborn shoots can be tough. I often come home after them a lot of times feeling totally drained and exhausted because they really just take A LOT out of you. However, every time I get a call for one, I honestly get SOOOO excited. I just love love love newborns and I love trying to capture that sweet, soft, squishy, squirmy, innocent, yummy, perfection that is a brand new babe. They melt me every time and it is a challenge I am always up for. It is definitely an art with newborns trying to get the images you have in your mind, but when you do, it feels like you just won the lottery. This shoot of Hudson and his big sister Madison was one I'll always treasure. We came away with so many images that I just loved and that had a lot of the emotion I was hoping for. Plus, it was so fresh in my mind having just brought a new baby home to my 3 year old son and seeing the love and bonding between my own kids is something i'll never forget. Such a special special time.

I'm so honored I got to be a part of capturing these memories. Not to mention I just love this cute family. Do you remember when they were just a family of 3 here?? Time flies!

Introducing....

Baby Hudson

My Girl...

2011-04-01T22:40:00.000-07:00

Is getting so big...

I can't believe it's been 9 months!

I have about 1,000,000 pictures of this little lady that I would love to share, but I'll just leave a couple for now.

We love this little gem.

Melzer Family

2011-03-21T16:58:00.000-07:00

I can't believe this shoot is from back in DECEMBER and I am just posting it! Ahh....tells you how behind I am on this little blog of mine.
But I really can't believe I haven't gotten these up sooner, because I LOVED this shoot! Can you please tell me how you could find a more beautiful family?? Seriously, those three kiddos are just as photogenic and darling as they come and I could hardly put my camera down. So of course I went a little crazy and took about a million pictures. So this long post will have to satisfy--I'm too tired of narrowing their pictures down!. :)

Thank you Melzers for being such perfect subjects and so nice and fun to work with on top of it all!

Told ya they were beautiful!!! ;)

Wedding Teasers

2011-01-24T23:49:00.000-08:00

Keeping busy busy around here with all these fabulous winter weddings!

But with this INCREDIBLE January weather we are currently experiencing here in SD, I don't think we can hardly call it winter. These couples seriously couldn't have gotten married on more beautiful days!

Since I am forever playing catch up on the blog and goodness knows when I'll get around to posting these weddings in whole-- I couldn't resist putting up just a few quick pictures.

LOVE how they're turning out.

And seriously, what photographer is lucky enough to have two stunning red-haired brides within a couple weeks?? Seriously ladies, can I steal your hair?! So jealous.

Can't wait to show the rest!

Shupe Family

2011-01-24T23:28:00.000-08:00

I love energetic boys. Believe me....I've got one of my own, for the books.

So I felt right at home with these darling little men. :) And loved every second of it. But who doesn't love little boys when they are this much fun?!?

I had a great afternoon with this handsome family walking all over the cutest neighborhood ever.

Thanks for putting up with me boys! I promise you'll be glad you did when you're older. At least that is what I keep trying to tell my son. ;)

My Own

2011-01-20T20:27:00.000-08:00

Um....so I should be working on a lot of other pictures right now, but I'm just a little distracted by these little loves. The other day we did an impromptu photo shoot for like 5 minutes and I don't even think I was out of my PJs yet--hmmm big surprise. But the kids were being so cute and Scarlett was all dressed up like Rainbow Bright (haha) so I just couldn't resist. And those little photo op moments are usually my favorite.

Being their Momma is so special.

Even if it means I don't get much work done some days. :)

McBrides Mini Shoot

2011-01-11T23:43:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures from the mini-shoot we did for this handsome family back in November.

It was a quick little shoot, but thanks to the adorable Eliza and Oliver, it wasn't too hard to come away with some good ones.

Such a perfect little family, don't ya think? :)

Perfection

2011-01-11T00:01:00.000-08:00

I couldn't call it quits tonight before I shared a quick shot from a session I'm working on this evening.

I just can't get enough. I LOVE getting to capture moments like this. Makes me feel like I have the best job ever!

The Carnohans

2011-01-05T23:06:00.000-08:00

I love this family!

Whitney is a friend of mine and one of the cutest Momma's around!

Not only are they photogenic but they were so much fun and so relaxed and easy-going to be around. Their boys did so great for me and I love the slew of family pictures we came away with.

Love those cute little boys' expressions!

Whitney is so darn beautiful!

Gavin & Paker....Such happy, handsome little guys.

The boys were SUCH troopers, but like all kiddos, were pretty over it by the end of the shoot.

HOWEVER,

I love this last picture because it totally just sums up Motherhood and what it feels like half the time being a Mom I swear. :) haha. Whitney is a rockstar.

Thanks so much Carnohans for getting in front of my camera! Loved getting to shoot these for you.

Baby Jocelyn

2011-01-04T23:47:00.000-08:00

After photographing this sweet baby girl in the hospital, we got to take a few more newborn shots of her at 10 days old.

Lucky, lucky Me.

What a doll. Isn't she perfect?

Allison & Rustin

2011-01-04T23:32:00.000-08:00

Okay, the last couple months have been nuts! And I mean NUTS! I can't even believe how behind on blogging I am and let's not even talk about my house & the rest of my life! Haha. But the holidays were worth it so here we go....back to reality.

Please bear with me while I play catch up here for a bit. :)

Allison & Rustin's wedding was back in October and I was so glad to be a part of it.

Here are some shots from their big day.

And a few from the reception:

Congrats you two!

Hope married life is treating you swell. :)

Mini Rudolph

2010-12-17T12:03:00.000-08:00

Well this has been one BUSY holiday season and I have A LOT of catch up blogging to do with some awesome photo sessions. So expect some good stuff coming soon.

But in the meantime, I'll just leave you this picture of my own darling little reindeer after preschool yesterday.

Merry Christmas everyone! I hope it is a wonderful one.

XOXO

Meet Jillian & Rachel

2010-11-19T16:59:00.000-08:00

Okay, hands down one of my favorite shoots I have ever done.

For sure.

Why?

A couple reasons.

I'll start by saying that these girls were NOT my biggest fan when they showed up to the shoot. They were not too happy one bit about having their picture taken and looked me up and down with skeptical eyes and frowns on their darling little faces.

Well I love a good challenge, so I decided to just can the traditional and do whatever I could to capture these girls exactly as they are.

I wanted these pictures to breathe THEM and LIFE. I was determined to find their personalities and get them shining.

So I eased back, asked them to play, fight, giggle, run, jump, tickle....you name it. And they did the rest.

In fact, I did very little.

And I think that is why I could not be more happy with the results.

I love taking pictures that tell a story. And I love taking pictures of sisters.

And I think this pair of sisters just hit a soft spot in my heart for me thinking about my own story with my sisters.

Sisters fight and they play.

They may look similar or completely different.

They may like the same things or loathe the other's favorites.

They may have different styles, friends, hobbies.

And they may NOT always get along perfectly.
BUT, suddenly once you're older and all grown up, all those differences sorta just don't matter nearly as much.

And there is NO one you can giggle with as long and as hard as your sisters.

No one that shares the same memories you will forever share.
No one there for you in quite the same way when you need it most.

And no one you love and that loves you back, like a sister.

That is why these girls were so much fun to capture.

Man oh man, I love my job.

Enjoy, the MANY pictures of these beauties! :)

This is their beautiful Momma, who we were lucky enough to sneak in for a couple shots.

The End.

Sisters

2010-11-17T00:11:00.000-08:00

Working on editing this shoot tonight and missing my own sisters.....bad.

Why do they have to be so far away?

I could really use a good laugh, maybe a good cry, a good vent....you know, all the things sisters do best together.

*Sigh*

More to come from THESE darling sisters very soon.

Lainey

2010-11-16T08:44:00.000-08:00

There's really nothing sweeter than a newborn.

This is Lainey at 7 days old.

Just perfect.

Isn't she the sweetest little pumpkin?

An "Almost" Birth Story

2010-11-04T18:15:00.000-07:00

So for the last couple weeks Stacy and I had planned for me to come to the hospital when she went into labor so I could take some birth story pictures. I was super excited as this would be my first real birth story photo op. Stacy was hoping to have an unmedicated natural birth and just wanted it to be a special experience bringing her first daughter into the world and I was so looking forward to capturing it on camera. I'm still kicking myself (hard!) for not having hired a professional photographer to be there when Scarlett was born, so I think I was thrilled to live vicariously through Stacy. :)

But that baby girl decided she'd take her sweet time...as girls often do, and Stacy passed her due date. She knew she needed to have the baby before her insurance changed, so she hesitantly decided to get induced--but still wanted to go natural if at all possible. So she went in at 7:00 am and started her pitocin drip. She was at a 4 and stayed at this 4 for almost the ENTIRE day! Since it's hard to leave my babies on short notice I was hoping to hold out until things got a little closer and then I'd find a sitter and race up to the hospital. Our friend Luisa was there at the hospital with Stacy to help her as a birth coach/doula, and so Lu kept texting me updates. Mostly how things were going really slow and no need for me to rush and that she'd let me know when things started to pick up more. I was happy because this meant Dan would probably be home from work in time for me to make it and not have to worry about a sitter. WELL....

Around 5 pm Lu texted me that she was at a 5 and things were starting to pick up.

So I started to collect my things and be ready to race out the door when Dan arrived by 6.

Not even 30 minutes later I got another text from Lu saying "OH MY GOSH! The baby is here! It just happened so fast, there was no time!!"

A 5 to a 10 without even a single push in less than 30 minutes?????!!!!!!

INSANE!

But also Amazing.

And Stacy did it 100% natural. So incredible.

So that is why this is an "Almost" birth story. :) Darn. Better luck next time.

However, I did get to go visit Miss Jocelyn just a couple hours later and still got some good hospital shots that still tell the story of this precious little lady's arrival into this beautiful world and the people who were waiting so patiently to welcome her.

Introducing.....

Jocelyn Eve Roy

October 27th, 2010

8 pounds, 4 ounces

20.5 inches long

Love these pictures of a Daddy with his first baby girl

Biggest brother Gavin could hardly wait to meet her! You should've seen the grin on this boy's face. Priceless. Simply priceless. I think I teared up.

Unfortunately, Stacy and Jared's other baby boy, Damon, was at home sleeping and couldn't make it to the hospital for that first night, so we didn't get him in the pics, but I love this one of the four of them.

Lu, the incredible birth coach

Congrats Stacy and Jared on your perfect little girl!

So so happy for you!

My Very Own Halloween Cuties

2010-11-01T15:43:00.000-07:00

We sure had a GREAT Halloween this year. I felt like it lasted a whole week! We can't get enough of the holidays in our house.

I've decided I'm making a new tradition of taking pictures of my kiddos in their Halloween costumes every year and then printing some of the pics to put up during October of the following year.

I think it will be the perfect addition to our Halloween decor.

And who wouldn't want to see these little Halloween cuties on the wall??

Calvin was our tough little Fire Fighter. Empashis on the "fighter". He very clearly made it known that he wasn't just a fireMAN. :)

And my tiny Scarlett girl was our little Lady bug.

I really can't get over her in those tights. :) What a muffin.

Hope you all had a fabulous Halloween!

Tis' the Season

2010-10-26T10:31:00.000-07:00

Wow, I just can't believe how fast the holidays are coming. I LOVE this time of year so so much!

This is also the time when people remember to start thinking about Christmas cards or just an updated family photo, so if you are interested let me know asap so we can try and get something on the calendar while we still have time! I know how crazy things can get this time of year.

Also, I will be booking shoots in Phoenix during the week before Christmas from around

December 18th to the 23rd.

So all you AZ peeps let me know if you'd like to schedule.

I am offering two types of family shoots right now for the 2010 holiday season:

Option 1: Full Family Shoot

$300

1-2 hours with your family at 1-2 locations of your choice

Clothing changes

Group/individual shots

25-35 retouched high resolution images on a disk (in both color and black and white)

Own all rights to photos

Optional professional printing services

Option 2: Mini Shoot

$150

30 minutes with photographer at 1 location

Group/individual shots

5-10 retouched high resolution images on a disk (in both color and black and white)

Own all rights to photos

Optional professional printing services

Let's face it, sometimes all you need is a few good shots - and I know what it is like to be on a budget. :) My hope is this mini shoot option gets more people excited to get new photos of their families and save a bit while doing it!

(for families of more than 5 please contact me for pricing)

If you are interested in getting on the calendar or have any questions at all, please contact me via email at ashleyjhenry@gmail.com.

Hope to see you soon! :)

5 Minute Maternity

2010-10-25T23:45:00.000-07:00

My cute friend Stacy is due any second now with her baby girl. So excited to meet her!

Stacy asked me to snap a couple belly shots the day before her due date to document her pregnancy, so we hurried out to my backyard and got a few.

I just can't believe how amazing she looks at 40 weeks pregnant! Seriously, not fair!

I know its not fun to have pictures taken of yourself this far along in pregnancy but looking back I don't think you ever regret it. And looking at this darling Momma, and being 4 months post-partum myself, I can't believe that I actually sorta miss it. Geez, Stacy....you must make pregnancy look REALLY good to make me feel like that. :)

Can't wait to meet that little lady....

Yvette + Erik

2010-10-07T16:38:00.000-07:00

Oh I can't wait to share these!! Okay, brace yourself for about 1 MILLION pictures. :)

I'm so grateful I had the opportunity to shoot this wedding for these two beautiful people! They were such a pleasure to work with and their friends and family couldn't have been kinder. Yvette and Erik live in Utah but decided they wanted to change things up a little and opted for a destination wedding here in San Diego with just a group of close friends and family rather than a big reception back at home. So they came out, enjoyed our gorgeous San Diego weather and got married in one of the most beautiful places on earth. What a great idea!

I had such a great time photographing them....but clearly, its not hard to see why!

They decided to do some pictures at both the beach and the San Diego Temple the night before so we would not be so rushed and crammed on the actual wedding day. Also this way we could take advantage of the beautiful sunset and evening light that a lot of bride's and groom's have to miss out on. I'm SO glad they decided to do this. I recommend doing this if possible to ALL the couples I shoot. It just makes the wedding day so much more relaxed and the lighting really makes a world of difference.

Isn't Yvette's dress just incredible?! I LOVED it. So perfect on her.

And then the beach....

So while we were down in La Jolla taking pictures, this little girl really wanted to see Yvette and hold her flowers. I think she thought she was a Disney Princess. The little darling was mesmerized.

She totally just grinned from ear to ear for a picture.

She was SO thrilled that she got to meet the princess. This is her waving goodbye. Seriously melts my heart. :)

I'm kinda obsessed with this picture. Not sure exactly what it is but I just L.O.V.E it.

Possibly my favorite shot from the whole wedding...Her whispering in his ear = perfection.

Pictures from the wedding day down below!

Yvette + Erik: Wedding Day

2010-10-07T14:00:00.000-07:00

Resurfacing....

2010-09-20T16:26:00.000-07:00

So, after some seriously wonderful down time, I am excited to be resurfacing to the blog and photography world and starting to catch up on some posts and do some more shooting.

Here is just a little sneak peek for Yvette and Erik.

Many more coming soon of their beautiful September wedding here in San Diego.

Please Excuse the Absence...

2010-08-02T17:10:00.000-07:00

I've had my hands a bit full the last few weeks with this sweet little bundle.

I hope to be back blogging more soon. And with lots more pics of the tiny lady.

Scarlett June Henry

June 19th

8 pounds 3 ounces

5:22 am

Jay & Rachel: Part III

2010-07-15T15:11:00.000-07:00

Last but not least, their reception was lovely and the perfect end to the day!

Congrats you guys!

Jay & Rachel: Part II

2010-07-15T15:08:00.000-07:00

On our way to the reception we passed by a blooming flower field that I just couldn't resist. I love some of the shots we came away with.

Jay & Rachel: Part I

2010-07-15T14:44:00.000-07:00

Jay and Rachel's wedding was so beautiful and turned out to be the perfect day. I had so much fun photographing these two and just seeing how totally happy and content they are with one another. It was a gorgeous day and I'm so glad I got to be a part of it! We got some great pictures outside the Temple and then we headed over to La Jolla to get some beach shots as well.....

I Do...

2010-05-03T15:32:00.000-07:00

...love spring weddings!

Had so much fun with these two love birds all day long a couple Saturdays ago for their special day.

Aren't they seriously just stunning?! Can't wait to show more.

And yes, this would be me shooting at 33 weeks pregnant. I had to share these couple shots that my lovely hubby snapped, since I don't really have many pictures of myself shooting, let alone at 33 weeks pregnant! It was a busy day but so so so much fun! I'm so glad Rachel and Jay were so patient with me and my big belly for a long day of pictures in the sun!

Jordan + Jessica = Leah

2010-04-26T09:27:00.000-07:00

So fun getting to photograph this sweet baby girl and her parents a couple weeks ago. I can't get enough of her cute whispy curls and chubba cheeks. She definitely made me even more excited for my own little girl to get here!! And what a patient, good-natured little thing! I can only hope for that! :)

The day couldn't have been more beautiful (I LOVE San Diego this time of year!!) and I always love visiting these gardens. Such a gorgeous setting.

7 months is such a fun age for baby pictures!

I love these of Leah and Jessica. They are beautiful together.

You can definitely tell how much these parents adore their little girl and how much she adores them back!

Ambrey

2010-04-16T22:06:00.000-07:00

We recently did senior pics for this lovely lady and I tell you, I had fun! I had almost forgotten what it felt like to not have any squirmy little ones to chase after and act like a buffoon for in order to get them to smile. :) Don't get me wrong. I LOVE that part of the job. But man, when your subject actually stays where you tell them to, it is kind of amazing. And once in awhile it is nice--even if I do love chasing those kiddos. :)

Ambrey was not only a gorgeous subject but we had some beautiful spring flowers and delicious light to work with, which just left me feeling happy. Hope you enjoy!

Happy Spring!

2010-04-09T21:55:00.000-07:00

One Year Old

2010-03-08T22:52:00.000-08:00

Miss Kate turned 1 at the end of January so we did a little photo opt to capture her at this special age. I can hardly believe it has been a whole year since we did these photos of her the day she was born! This baby girl is still just the tiniest and sweetest little thing you ever saw. She is such an easy going girl and I just love her to pieces.

Her Momma had a great idea to bring along some of her favorite things right now such as her baby doll, story books, telephone, blankie, etc. It was perfect!

Happy birthday big girl!

Birthday Girl

2010-02-25T14:01:00.000-08:00

A whole bunch of this little birthday cherub coming very very soon.

Carol, Eric, and Buddy

2010-01-28T20:52:00.000-08:00

I had such a nice afternoon with these three--visiting their gorgeous home, exploring their amazing neighborhood and its incredible views, and just having such a relaxed and low-key photo shoot with two lovely people. It was such a treat for me! I really wanted to create some photos that would show them in their element....doing what they love, together, and capturing their personalities. I'm so pleased with the outcome.

Buddy is their dog and he was the sweetest little guy! You can tell how much they adore him and how he is really just part of the family. Such a lucky pup!

These next pictures were taken from a lookout in their neighborhood where you get high enough to see all the way to the coast and on a clear day, downtown even. Beautiful spot.

We also got some head shots of Carol for her business. She was so good in front of the camera! I love some of the shots we got!

Eric is what you might call a beverage connoisseur and even has his own blog! So we caught a few of him in his element as well.

Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice

2010-01-20T22:26:00.000-08:00

Beautiful family.

Awesome location.

Lovely light.

and

Two little girls, Margaux and Beatrix, with the most darling names and personalities to match, who could literally just melt your heart and make you want to have a dozen of your own.

Doesn't get much better. :)

I seriously had to cut myself off from posting more pictures because I could have just gone on and on.

Thank you, Alexanders, for such an exciting photo shoot!

Home for Christmas

2010-01-14T14:57:00.000-08:00

While I was in Phoenix for Christmas, I got a last minute phone call from the family who owns the absolutely beautiful home featured in this photoshoot....and since they had all their children and grandchildren home for the holidays, they decided they needed some fresh new pictures of everyone together. Especially before the youngest son leaves soon on his 2 year mission to England! I was so flattered they thought of me and had a great time doing this shoot.

I know I say this a lot, but honestly, NICEST FAMILY EVER! So down to earth and just so kind....to the core. They were also so much fun and totally chill. We listened to Jack Johnson the whole time and had some good laughs.

Thanks you guys for being so patient and I hope you enjoy the pictures!

I loved all their colors! They did such a great job. And their house really is just stunning. So so beautiful.

Shelley is the Momma Hen and isn't she such a babe? I LOVED all her spunk.

This the spot where the family often gathers to relax and chat. I was excited to capture them here.

I am completely in love with these pictures of Grandpa holding his little grand-daughter.

So proud. So sweet.

And what darling little grandsons! Who are also SOOOO patient. AND stylish.

Momma and her boys

Can I please steal those super cute shirts and vests for my Calvin? Size 2t please. :)

Two unmarried brothers.....any takers ladies???!! :)

This one, however, is going to have a two year waiting list....Richard leaves on his mission in just a month or two. We took some time at the end to get a few of him alone before his big departure.

From the looks of these, I think there are going to be some pretty broken-hearted ladies.....wouldn't you say? :)

The Lilleys

2010-01-05T23:28:00.000-08:00

Well, I am back in town. Mostly recovered from the holiday craziness. And have a much improved computer after a few little upgrades.

I am feeling good and ready to get some more posts up!

This family shoot was one that I just had the best time with. Not only are their kids so sweet, well-behaved and just darling, but Dad and Mom are about the nicest people you'll ever meet. They couldn't have made my job easier. We had a great time walking all over Old Scottsdale.

This little Emma is just about as cute as they come. I think I could have photographed her all day long.

And Ethan....what a happy and good-natured little man! His little grin is too much.

I loved taking pictures of Amy and Danny because they were so open and willing to do/try whatever. And I did. :) That is my FAVORITE! They were so relaxed and willing to let me create. Plus, it was so obvious how much they really adore each other and that is just plain fun to capture. Here is just a little taste of some of the good times we had.

Merry Christmas Wishes

2009-12-23T14:35:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy New Year. Hope to see you all in 2010!

The Crowes

2009-12-23T14:24:00.000-08:00

I am literally racing out of town...

But wanted to get the quickest of previews up for this great family.

It was so fun doing pictures with them for a second time.

I loved seeing how much Maddie has grown. Such a little lady!

Savannah & Rosie

2009-12-19T15:10:00.000-08:00

Savannah is an adorable 7 year old girl.

Rosie is her Pup.

Together, they make quite the pair.

First we got lots of shots of the little lady. Who may just need to go into modeling someday.

We did lots of running and playing in mud. Which I didn't mind one bit. I mean, really, does life get any better than running down a muddy dirt road in a fancy dress?! No way.

The leaves and colors were beautiful. As was Miss Savannah.

Then we decided it was Rosie's turn. And she got a couple beauty shots too.

Savannah wanted to "wrestle" with Rosie. So I had to get them in action. Rosie was pretty thrilled and Savannah got away without too many bumps and bruises. :)

On the left, Savannah was getting all set to pounce on Rosie and I just can't get over how cute that picture turned out. On the Right is after the pounce. :)

Dogs really are the best.

What a fun and action-packed afternoon. I couldn't have asked for two more adorable and photogenic subjects!

A Little Glam

2009-12-13T21:13:00.000-08:00

I had the best time at my Phoenix photo sessions. This gorgeous family wanted something edgy and different so we went for it. They were all class and glam and I loved it. It's hard sometimes to be as creative as you want to be when there are little ones involved, but I loved having a very patient couple willing to let me get artistic while still making sure we got some more traditional family pics as well. You know...you still have to have those Christmas card shots. :) Joan had lots of great ideas and really helped concept the shoot--she found this awesome location and had a great vision for her family's style--so that added so much. I love when my clients have a direction and a look and feel they really love. It makes it such a fun challenge for me to try and capture it while still putting my own stamp and flare on it.

One of my favorite things we did in this shoot was incorporate some dramatic lighting. Not always easy to do or the right place to do it, but this house just had some fascinating light in it and I couldn't resist.

This little man and his Momma were so sweet together. He is such a little flirt and I adore it.

Nothing better than brothers. Really really handsome brothers at that.

Mr. Jimmy

Mr. Max

Love this moment

And we got to go a step farther with Joan and Brandon. I LOVE getting to take some pictures of just the parents. Not only is it fun to have a few moments with subjects that hold still the whole time and do exactly what you tell them! :) But I love being able to capture photos of a seasoned couple. I think every couple that has been married for a few years or longer needs some new, fresh, modern, and maybe even a little spicy, photos of just the two of them. Just to remember that under the day to day hustle and bustle of family life....you really are still those fascinating, attractive, beautiful people you've always been to each other.

Joan and Brandon pretty much sum that up! They are just striking together.

I wanted to hurry and get a bunch of these up here, but I just may not be able to help myself and post a couple more later....

Making 5 Kids Look Easy....

2009-12-07T22:20:00.000-08:00

Is really NOT an easy thing to do. But this family managed it. No problemo.

Seriously such a darling group and all their personalities just made them that much cuter. I loved seeing how much these kids just really truly loved each other.

My favorite was when we were done with most of the pictures and then the kids went and had a hay day in the mud. Nothing is better than kids, really being kids.

Here is just a little sprinkle of some of the pictures we got.....

I was sticking with my one picture of each kid for the blog.....but then I just couldn't resist posting 2, okay 3, pictures of this little guy. Some of the expressions he whipped out for me were priceless.

Thanks Plumb Family for a wonderful afternoon!

Cortez Family

2009-12-01T16:41:00.000-08:00

My favorite is when you meet clients for the first time and you feel comfortable from the moment you talk to them. That was this sweet family of three. They were so kind and gracious. And it was so clear how very much they love their little man Blake. He was so much fun and what a charmer! All those 5 year old girlies better watch out!

I'm so glad I got to take their pictures--I know how excited they are to see them! Hope you enjoy your sneak peek Stacy!

Carpenter Family

2009-12-01T13:58:00.000-08:00

So I am finally blogging the pictures of this whole darling family. This family is near and dear to our heart. They are some of our best and closest friends in the whole world and we just love them to pieces. It was such a pleasure taking their pictures.

This is one of my favorite shots of all.

This is at our second location. The light was lovely and this old house was just perfect for what we were looking for.

I couldn't resist getting a bunch of Liz and her sweet baby girl. They are so darling together.

And we also had to get a few of just Mom and Dad

These last couple are just some of my very favorite. All that blur is all in camera and I LOVE it! Liz is so beautiful and I just don't think she knows it enough!! Hopefully these pictures will remind her.

You know the kind of friends that know pretty much everything there is to know about you and somehow, still like you anyways? Or the kind of friend you could call in the middle of the night and ask a favor and they would probably do it for you--no questions asked? Well, Liz is that kind of friend. I think everyone needs a friend like Liz. Seriously. Sometimes I don't really know how my life would actually function without her. I feel so blessed.....

We love you guys and hope you enjoy your pictures!

Three of my Favorite Girls

2009-11-19T14:06:00.000-08:00

I don't think you get much luckier than when your closest friends have 3 of the most beautiful little girls in the world and they let ME take their pictures! I really just can't get enough of these beauties. I love watching them grow up and seeing their personalities.

We had such a good time with this shoot. I'm so grateful for Liz and her patience and willingness to work with my crazy whims, let alone during the dinner hour, with ALL our kids in tow. :) I love our adventures.

BTW: I have lots and lots more pictures coming very soon of this whole darling family. You don't want to miss it. :)

Miss Olivia Jane

Miss Maddie Lou (as I like to call her)

Tiny Miss Kate

Seriously, do kids get any more beautiful?!

A Touch of Color

2009-11-09T23:23:00.001-08:00

This beautiful family of three was so much fun to photograph. I was so excited that they wanted bright, colorful photos with an urban touch. We found a great spot and I am so excited with how they turned out.

Little Madison became my best friend in about 5 minutes. I LOVE when kids are so good at warming up to me. It makes my job so fun. She has such a cute, silly personality and it made me feel right at home.

I couldn't get enough of all her little looks.

Mom and Dad were so striking.

I am pretty much in love with these two photos of Mom and Dad. Aren't they just the most handsome couple?! And I can't get enough of that purple.

I loved how these series of group pictures turned out. The light was so soft and we basically just let Madison play since we were getting near the end--which made for some super cute expressions from her.

Love that sweet kiss!

What a beautiful, beautiful little lady.

Tiny Beauty

2009-10-20T08:52:00.000-07:00

Remember this little babe--my dear dear friend Liz's baby girl? Well, she is 10 months old now and can you even believe the beautiful little thing she is? She is at tiny as can be and she seriously has a face that will just take your breath away. And her eyes...and hair....amazing.

I'm glad I get to be her pseudo-aunt. :)

Liz and I have the same birthday and so our hubbies surprised us with a fun overnight date at the La Estancia in La Jolla back in September. Kate was the only little munchkin that got to come along and she was just too too adorable in the morning and the light was too perfect not take some pictures of her and her sleepy face. So we did an impromptu photo shoot. I love how they turned out.

I just could not for the life of me decide between the B&W or the Color version of this picture. I love them both.

She is such a happy little girl. All the time!

Doesn't her sleepy face just melt your heart?

I can't get enough of the light in this last picture. It is dreamy.

The Three of Us

2009-10-14T19:56:00.000-07:00

I love love love taking pictures for people.

It is something I have come to absolutely find so much happiness, challenge, excitement, and fulfillment in.

I love being behind the camera---way more than in front of it. That is for sure. But still, after seeing so many other people's family pictures, I just start to wish we had some updated photos with all 3 of us in them. I don't really have any other photographer friends in the area to do trades with (anyone interested?!)-- so this year we finally got around to having our sweet and patient brother-in-law, Andrew, take some pictures for us with my camera. He did a great job and I am having fun working on them in PS.
Here is a little sneak peek of the 3 of us.

I am super excited.