Cheryl M. Photography

Koven and Tracy | A Wedding Story

2011-12-22T14:02:00.000-08:00

Tracy and Koven really are the perfect pair. They met while on base, she was in the army and he, a marine. They met on the basketball court, which suits them perfectly. They are both fiercely competitive. It was only natural that the basketball court is where Koven proposed.

Their wedding day peppered with military accents of navy and gold.

Tracy wore her mothers' wedding dress. A few alterations made to fit her style. The DIY details are abundant and they labor of love this wedding was shines in every aspect. Koven and Tracy, it was a pleasure to document your wedding story.

LOVE the guys' style

A perfectly lit ceremony beneath the pergola

A seriously rocking reception. Complete with photo booth, karaoke and LOTS of unexpected dance routines!

Kate and Anna, 3 years

2011-12-20T18:46:00.000-08:00

When you are too busy to blog it means you have so much to share during the cold months!

One of my fall sessions and a family I look forward to seeing every year. LOVE these girls and their beautiful mom. Dad, you're pretty cool too :) A few of my favorites:

Christmas Gift Idea Alert!

2011-12-11T19:23:00.001-08:00

The perfect way to showcase your 2011 family session!

Accordion minis are perfect stocking stuffers, fit nicely inside your bag and grandparents LOVE them. I am so happy with this product ALL 2012 sessions will receive one. Each book allows 12 images (I recommend 6 vertical and 6 horizontal) and stays put with a magnetic closure. Email me by Thursday to guarantee delivery in time for Christmas.

Pricing: 1st book is $22, 2nd is $15 and every book after is $10

Campbell Family

2011-12-11T19:10:00.001-08:00

Grant came running up in his fitted jeans, trendy plaid top and pulled me in for a huge hug. I melted.

These kids they all grow so fast. Each year they return a little taller and a bit more mature. I want to stop the clock, bottle the minutes and save them for later. Exactly what a picture is meant to do.

To savor those moments. To remind parents to enjoy the laugh to enjoy the way their eyes light up when they are excited. To stop and listen in on a good game of pretend play. A picture will always take you back to that moment.

Because childhood really is magical.

Balee Family

2011-12-08T13:26:00.001-08:00

My clients have their holiday cards out and I can officially start blogging without the fear of spoiling the surprise! Fall sessions were beautiful this year, no exception was the Balee Family. VERY difficult to catch them all together (Dad tavels a lot!) so these are extra special. Thank you Balee's you are all lovely!!

Cydney + Dave

2011-12-02T14:12:00.001-08:00

Cydney and Dave's engagement session was perfect. Cydney chose this date months and months ago and booked her wedding well over a year in advance. An absolutely beautiful couple and I look forward to their wedding next October.

Cydney's smile lights up a space

Ethan 6 months

2011-11-19T20:01:00.001-08:00

A new family filled with love.

It was a tremendous honor to photograph Mike, Lauren and their Ethan (or Mike 2.0!). Mike is a fellow photographer, his work is fantastic, check him out here. Ethan was darling, full of smiles and his parents, well, they are smitten :) Thank you Cassimatis Family, it was a pleasure to document this chapter in your lives.

2011-10-14T11:20:00.000-07:00

The Hart Family received this session as a gift, what a perfect baby shower idea! Amber was so, so excited and I was thrilled to present them with their images. Beautiful and happy family.

Inspired

2011-10-12T16:20:00.000-07:00

Inspiration does exist, but it must find you working ~ Picasso

Inspired by Duck on a Bike

Themed Challenge | Let them be little

2011-10-11T14:28:00.000-07:00

A princess twirling

Photog to the photog, a PBFF documented

2011-09-26T16:22:00.000-07:00

Pamela called me a few months back to document Eleanor's one year milestone. Being asked to photograph another photographer is the honor of all honors. Pamela lives and breathes photography so when she chose me to document Eleanor's one year milestone I was ecstatic. Then sick to my stomach nervous. "Treat us like any other client" she said... um... sure... yeah, that's how it goes.

We started collaborating a bit on this session. We both wanted to pump up the whimsy so we decided on the tent. Bubbles, well, bubbles are a staple item when you want whimsy. That was easy.

Pair the session with perfectly pastel Burberry Baby... Heavenly.

Two of my favorites

The Pelto's from Portland

2011-09-17T10:51:00.000-07:00

The Pelto's are originally from St. Louis but on a scheduled trip to visit they quietly booked a family session for themselves. Mom Cyndie is a huge supporter of Cheryl M. Photography and it was such a pleasure to see them and document their family. Not to mention these kids are crazy photogenic :)

Seniors 2011

2011-08-19T19:23:00.000-07:00

I have so much material I have been wanting to share so I am combining a few images from my last senior sessions of the year. What I love most about senior sessions is that this is the LAST time they will ever do a photo shoot just for themselves. The next time they hire a photographer (genrally speaking) is when they announcement their engagement. The senior session is a right of passage and a fantastic milestone to document.

Erica

Jen

Kelsey

Natalie

and Natalies session crasher, he's pretty cute too

Themed Challenge | Eyes

2011-08-16T15:29:00.000-07:00

I love this themed challenge "eyes" this is Elle and her beauty is so natural. She's going to be one of those girls that never needs makeup.

E is for Elise

2011-07-27T12:28:00.000-07:00

Hello!~ My blog has taken a bit of a vacation (swamped season has crept up on me!) so please check me out on facebook for LOTS of recent work!

Baby Elise is insanely perfect and really a clone of her big sister Lillian! I walked in and gasped at the similarity between the two as infants. Really, they are nearly identical! Lots of love to baby Elise and her family :)

Her favorite game, unroll all the toilet paper

Themed Challenge | Props

2011-07-17T18:38:00.000-07:00

Oh me oh my I loved this session and I cannot wait to bring out the full post soon! This was one of my absolute favorites, going into the vault of all time faves thus far. The tire swing is the quintessential childhood vision and works beautifully as a prop. Brings out the sweetest moments of kids being kids.

Cupcakes and Chocolate Milk Dates | Whipt Cream

2011-07-08T12:56:00.000-07:00

Our second sweet stop this summer was Whipt Cream in Chesterfield. The icing is light, the cake super moist and the designs are stunning. Think Cake Boss when it comes to the Whipt Cream Team. Their creations are nothing short of spectacular. A super big thank you to Lee for sending us home with a few more sweet treats to sample. Take note, BYOCM (bring your own chocolate milk) but water and coffee are complimentary.

The verdict?

Two Forks Up

Red velvet was my favorite

Maria+Robert | Engagement Session

2011-07-04T12:16:00.000-07:00

Maria and Robert's engagement session, a beautiful couple and a wedding full of love in August.

Happy Holiday

2011-07-01T16:01:00.000-07:00

Enjoy your weekend and your children, Happy 4th of July :)

Tea for Two

2011-06-25T12:07:00.000-07:00

A bit of organizing on moms' and my part, we set up a magical tea party for the girls. One of my favorite sessions.

The second portion of the session was about the girls and their love for books.

my favorite

dresses by: Saurette

Married, Derek and Ashley

2011-06-23T09:49:00.000-07:00

I second shot Ashley's brother and sister-in-law's wedding last year. When Ashley contacted me to photograph her nuptials I was so excited because I knew what a sweet heart she had. Ashley is so kind and sweet, spending this day with them was nothing but a pleasure. Congratulations Mr & Mrs Grein!

J+D Family Session and a Tenth Anniversary

2011-06-20T10:09:00.000-07:00

My annual session with the Roach Family was so beautiful this year, choosing just a few to post was challenging. Shot on Jacque and Dustin's tenth anniversary. Love your beautiful family and wish you ten more amazing years!

Welcome Cullen

2011-06-11T18:28:00.000-07:00

Kylene and Peter welcomed Cullen about 6 weeks ago. I adore shooting at this age!! The baby is so alert and starting to show characteristics of mom and dad. A bit of personality is starting to sparkle and the parents have had some time to fall into their role of mom and dad. Welcome sweet Cullen, I adored my opportunity to walk you to sleep.... and then hand you over to mom :)

Ooooh, alert baby makes me melt

Aselage | Doran Family Session | Aselage Farm

2011-06-06T20:49:00.000-07:00

Cate contacted me to shoot her family at their property and farm in Defiance. I pulled up and was in heaven. The light, the location, the family all were perfection. Choosing what to post was so, so challenging.

When I walked up to the house Cate's Dad greeted me and the table was set like this:

Cate wanted a lot of the focus to be about their horses. They show horses and one of them actually has a passport :)

Cate's sister Jenny

They come to the farm everyday to care for the horses.

Just as relaxed and fun as they are beautiful.

I took a little time with Cate and her husband Barrett (married almost one year) for a few shots in the gorgeous light on the gorgeous farm.

The family at their Farm House

Red, White and Blue

2011-06-05T14:29:00.000-07:00

This day was crazy warm for January in St. Louis, the snow was the perfect reflector and coats weren't necessary. Caught this one just as the session was over and we were headed back to the car.

From a Distance | Photo Challenge

2011-06-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

The innocence of childhood

The Tea Party

A Touch of Whimsy

2011-06-05T07:54:00.000-07:00

This was one of my favorite sessions to date, tea for two!

Jon and Whitney

2011-06-03T18:36:00.000-07:00

I needed a model couple, Jon and Whitney were kind enough to donate their time and drive over from Alton :) In this session Whitney is almost 5 (yes 5!) months pregnant. She look phenomenal and I was crazy jealous. They found out a week after this session they are expecting a boy. *sigh*

Don't you think Whitney looks just like Carrie Underwood? Me too.

Yep, 5 months along!

This was my favorite

And, the soon to be big brother :)

Mason+Parker an Extended Family Session

2011-05-31T16:24:00.000-07:00

Extended Family sessions are a fun way to get a mini family session with your relatives and in this case, the baby cousins :)

This is Parker and I love her hat!

This is Mason with his mom and dad. Mason's mom and Parker's dad are siblings

This was one of my favorites

Their Grandma is sooo lucky, a boy and a girl!

Crafty mom and a sweet moment with her princess

I can't resist a toothless grin :)

Lylah's 1

2011-05-25T15:47:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of documenting Lylah's entire first year. It is always an honor to be chosen to spend this amount of time with every family. Lylah, the baby sister, will be a big sister right around the holidays :) Congratulations princess on your big milestone and congratulations Johns Family on your surprise #3 :)

I'm a huge fan of big brother squeezing the little sister shots

I seeee youuuuu!

Tuesday Photo of the Evening

2011-05-17T18:46:00.000-07:00

Our little girl. Her first day wearing pigtails and desperately trying to grasp the potty concept.

Emme Take 2

2011-05-16T10:17:00.000-07:00

The clouds parted, the sun was shining on what was supposed to be a very dreary day. Love the light and the anticipation felt for their second baby.

Love those Ringlets

2011-05-13T18:55:00.000-07:00

Addie and Callie cause quite a stir when I posted them last year. It was the magnolia session, check it out here. Callie had wispy baby hair, Addie was her Shirley MacLaine cute self. When they arrived this year Callie had a head full of ringlets, Addie lost her toddler look and the girls brought their star factor, again :) These are my favorites:

Mom: "did you catch that? It's only cute for so long" WAY cute :)

Those curls get me

Cupcakes and Chocolate Milk Dates | Jilly's Cupcake Bar and Cafe, University City

2011-05-12T09:58:00.001-07:00

Cupcakes and Chocolate Milk Dates is a little series where I combine all of my favorite things: my munchkins, dessert and photographing my kids eating beautiful treats :) The plan is to hit many of the sweet spots around town and document our journey. Our first stop was Jilly's in University City. We have had a yummy brunch (make sure you order the fruit, it's tossed in a fantastic sweet dressing) and always drool over the cupcakes. We stopped in took our time choosing from the beautiful assortment. Gavin went with a Gumball, Emsy we stayed with Vanilla and I indulged in a chocolate with chocolate ganache filling. Yum.
Portion sizes were more then generous, price point three cupcakes, a chocolate milk and water was a cool $20. The icing was light and the cake moist. A lovely atmosphere and easy access off 170. Be forewarned, the close at 3 during the week.
Our next stop: Whipt Cream!

We arrived late and had to hurry Ems through her dessert. A bit unhappy about leaving and she insisted she carry the bag of cupcakes.

Caroline | At Home

2011-05-09T15:53:00.000-07:00

She was definitely a surprise! A fantastic surprise :)

Joined by the triplets

And really fantastic big sis Caitlyn

She compliments the Crew perfectly

Grace needs just a bit extra from Mom

Sweet Baby Caroline is the beautiful addition to a family full of love

Caroline | New Baby

2011-05-09T10:24:00.000-07:00

It is always a pleasure to spend a bit of time with moms just after the baby's birth and right before they head home. Caroline is welcomed by 4 siblings at home so this one on one with her was extra special. A few sweet moments :

She's done with the paparazzi :)

Tracy & Koven

2011-05-02T10:17:00.000-07:00

They met by chance on base, Koven a Marine and Tracy is Army.

She will meet him at the alter wearing her mother's wedding dress. A few alterations to suit her style. The details touches designed themselves. This will truly be a wedding to remember.

Themed Challenge

2011-05-01T11:36:00.000-07:00

~Soft and Sweet~

The first image I have that came to mind because, right after I shot it I thought "I love this, it's so soft and sweet" :)

check out all the entries here at iheartfaces

A Baby Boy

2011-04-26T19:26:00.000-07:00

Laura went into work that morning. Contractions and all. She had a Doctor's appointment that afternoon and they wanted to keep things as scheduled.

When she went to the appointment she was already 8cm

Dad asked if he had time to go home and get the bags

The Doctor's response: "You barely have time to get to the hospital"

Two hours later their much anticipated arrival was born

A Baby Boy.

Austin

He is loved.

Water | Themed Challenge

2011-04-25T07:18:00.000-07:00

I grabbed this right before we left the lake, my best friend from high school begged her boyfriend to do this for her and I. She promises if they ever get engaged this is going to be their save the date pic :) Taking the Plunge

After Nap ~Lifestyle~

2011-04-24T20:00:00.000-07:00

The many stages of waking up

Not so happy to see mom... or her camera

Taking a moment

The yawn

Coming around a bit

Ready to rock

My First Friend

2011-04-22T19:50:00.000-07:00

We moved to St. Louis 8 (gasp) yes nearly 8 years ago. I cared for Dom (then, in kindergarten) for a few years. Keli and Dominic were our first real friends. Our St. Louis Family as we affectionately refer to them as. I was there the day Francesca was born. I changed diapers. I helped Dom learn how to read and have spent more time with the Bertani Family then I have my own extended family in the past 8 (gasp) years. When Keli told me Dom was going to be home from school and she needed some pictures I was elated to grab a few sweet moments. This young man has so much of the Dom I knew but is quite grown up.

Chucks designed by Dom himself

A sincere laugh, I suppose I AM pretty funny

GTL

2011-04-19T14:51:00.000-07:00

Gym, Tan, Love. Maybe not the tan part but they met at the gym. Stacy: "Yep, we're that couple"

Three months of coinciding their work out times Jason finally asked her out. Three and half years later they are getting married.

This wasn't the ring she chose, it was better. He carried it for two weeks before he asked her. She was so excited she fell and skinned her knee.

Jason is thoughtful and sweet with Stacy.

I'm friends with a model

2011-04-14T16:38:00.000-07:00

He's officially an actor and model. Yep, I consider him a friend. Not so sure the feeling is mutual :). Back for another session one year grown up, Ian updates his portfolio. This time Mom and Dad join the fun.

The baseball from the year he was born, same year the new stadium was complete. Coincidence? Hmmm...

Then dad jacked him with the ball, Note, he WRITES for the Cardinals, not plays for them ;)

It's okay, Ian let him know his throw was less then satisfactory.

FB Quote from Dad: Hands down my favorite, and there isn't a baseball in sight" LIKE!

A lovely family moment, Ian wanted everyone to sit and play.

Picture Perfect.

Love the Chub

2011-04-11T19:48:00.000-07:00

This little boy is an old soul. Sweet, snuggly and reminded me of our Gavin. He was ready to do his own thing but stopped to give his mom some love :) I very much look forward to seeing him this fall.

He's a good kisser :)

Dad is SMITTEN with this little guy

See?! The chub, it was all I could do to resist squishing and loving that belly

Those hands, the baby dimply hands

And here is where he tried to make a break for it

Pruss Family

2011-04-07T19:30:00.000-07:00

One seriously photogenic family. The recipe as follows, Beautiful location, easy (and happy!) kids, perfect light and a family as enthusiastic about their photos as me. This equals one crazy great session. For your viewing pleasure I present the Pruss Family:

My two favorites of the kids:

Talent scouts email me, I can get you in touch with her mother:

Just loved this moment:

Yes, modeling agencies she is perfect:

Oooh, this was a favorite too! The light was yummy:

Little boys and their moms *sigh*

Winner!

2011-04-02T10:11:00.000-07:00

Omigosh! Omigosh! I never win. Anything. Ever.

The very talented guest judge, Carissa Gallo chose me out over 500 entries, I'm freaking out excited!

Check out all the winners here at iheartfaces

Thank you especially to the Holland Family for allowing me the chance to catch this amazing moment!

Campbell is One

2011-03-29T19:36:00.000-07:00

*Sigh* This was my 5th session in the last year and a half with this family. (Insert tear). Mom Angela is a life coach (great blog and info click on her name!) the family, just as nice as the are beautiful.

Campbell was SO FAST. Normally, at the one year mark they sort of Frankenstein walk around but NOT Campbell. Lots of my shots looked like these below. Plus my lame attempt at slowing her down (wrapping her hair bow around her wrist) was dismantled and tossed within moments.

Wispy baby hair,

Oh, that face and those eyes

Again, running from me

A dropped distraction

More wispy hair in the breeze

A moment with Daddy

Cole, stealing the show

And showing me some dance moves ;)

Nick + Megan

2011-03-22T17:02:00.001-07:00

It was one of the nicest days we had seen this year. The sun was in an out of clouds, the wind was gave us a soft breeze. Every thing was perfect for Nick and Megan when they said their vows.

The ceremony was held at the Jewel Box, beautiful light filtered through the glass.

Congratulations to the beautiful couple and congratulations to the new family that was formed two weeks ago. Many, many happy years!

A very special thank you to my second shooter Lindsey, your images flowed beautifully and I am so blessed to be working side by side with you again.

One of my favorites, shot in Lafayette Park

Engagement + Kids

2011-03-09T20:44:00.000-08:00

Nick and Megan are getting married in TWO DAYS. Two days they are committing themselves to one another and merging two families to one. Their love is sincere and honest and I am so fortunate to catch these moments of love this weekend.

Fun At Home

2011-03-07T19:45:00.000-08:00

Not only are they my beautiful children they are also my little guinea pigs when it come to trying out photo shoot ideas. A little snippet from some fun at home. Yes, most of the time they dress like homeless babies, unless we are going out in public :)

Stink eye!

Pucker up

This is Emsy's little pony. I love it.

I will very much miss these dimple-y hands when they grow out of them.

She braved some serious cold!

2011-03-03T10:20:00.000-08:00

I never feel like I have enough time when we make visits home. Luckily Kelly was happy to bring Paige to me for a quick little shoot outside before we headed out of town. It was SO cold in Rockford, I left it was 25* and when I returned to StL that afternoon it was 65!! About five minutes in Paige says "My hands are so cold" pockets to the rescue which made for a cute shot :) Thanks ladies you're beautiful!!

Grace and Payton, 2 years later

2011-03-02T19:27:00.000-08:00

I always start my posts about these girls with the story of how Gavin and Grace were born on the same day. Same hospital, same OB practice, I visited Robin just down the hall after the epidural was removed. When Payton came along so did my first camera. I took a few snaps of her as an infant. From there work snowballed. So my business is as old as a Payton. Sweet, sweet girls, beautiful family and I am honored each and every time they ask me to capture a milestone.

Leach Kids

2011-02-23T18:29:00.000-08:00

It's their first official session of 2011!! Danica is now 4 (!!!), Chase 2 and Brayden is 9 months. His big birthday is on my calendar. More from them in April. For now, the most fantastic day! It was 65, sunny and still a good amount of snow. A beautiful recipe that doesn't happen often.

So grown up, pierced ears and all :)

Loved this,

This was my fave, and processed a little differently

Avery and Greta

2011-02-20T13:26:00.000-08:00

Beautiful and identical twins, Avery and Greta were sweet, funny and pack a bit of spunk. They were dressed to impress (love these outfits!) and Walter the dog joined in for some really sweet moments. A fantastic family to work with and beautiful to boot!

Getting ready to head outside with some help from Grandma,

Greta's favorite way to sit, sweet pea.

Tortellini Soup

2011-02-10T12:58:00.000-08:00

A quick and easy recipe (not to mention crazy scrumptious!). A big shout out to Lizanne who introduced me to this just after Emy was born, it is now a family favorite.

Ingredients:
2 tbl butter
1 tbl minced garlic
8-10 cups chicken broth
1 can 28oz diced tomatoes (I use the basil oregano flavored)
a big bunch of spinach
8-10 basil leaves
1 lb totellini (the best and biggest you can find)

Sautee garlic in butter 2 minutes. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add tortellini and tomatoes. Cook 6 mintues. Add spinach and basil, cook 2 minutes more. Enjoy!

Nora is for Eleanor

2011-02-10T12:41:00.000-08:00

This beautiful Nora turned one. Mom's email remarked how important it was that get this milestone documented. Your first baby everything is new, fantastic and exciting. Your second baby you start praying for time to slow down. You remember to step back and take in each second, every smell and sound at each age. From this session I learned the third baby is an amazing blessing and the last chance to hold close everything baby.

A very Happy (belated!) Birthday to Eleanor.

Caleb's 6 month milestone

2011-01-24T19:36:00.000-08:00

A Slice of Life.

This image was entered in the iheartfaces photo contest

Welcome 2011

2011-01-19T18:09:00.000-08:00

This was my first session of 2011. The Kinser Family. They gathered to document the entire family together (which doesn't happen often because Michael lives in Canada!). On January 2nd we met and photographed this rare occasion. Every Kinser is just as genuine as the next. Thank you!

My favorite group shot :)

Everyone was really sweet and humored my request for a funny face. Hee hee

Charlotte Caroline

2011-01-14T16:50:00.000-08:00

Great clients and even better friends, I am so excited to debut Charlotte. She's beautiful and sweet and really, just couldn't be any prettier. She is one of those babies that makes you think you could do it all over again.

This was one of my favorites,

Big brother William ADORES her. He spent his Charlotte-holding time teaching her addition.

Dad is so smitten. Tiffancy and Co. said so at Christmas ;)

This makes me smile and laugh, so many can relate!

Pretty Paley Take Two

2011-01-12T12:07:00.000-08:00

Pretty Paley in the fresh snow. A crisp cool morning, amazing light for these few family moments.

This was their Christmas card

Dancing with Daddy

My favorite! A new baby due any moment, (I think it's a girl!)

The expectant Mom, they are very ready to meet their newest addition

Mommy Snuggles

2011-01-06T10:26:00.000-08:00

I ended 2010 with a little playdate with my photo BFF Pamela Quigley (click on her name for Boudouir info, just in time for Valentine's Day!) and her little princess Eleanor. We documented her three month milestone with lots of snuggly mom time. Love both of you girls!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T18:56:00.000-08:00

A very Merry Christmas to you! We enjoyed staying in town this year. Luckily we had such beautiful snow it didn't seem too different then what we know.

The Triplets are One

2010-12-15T12:19:00.000-08:00

They're bursting with personality and moving in every direction.

Full of smiles

Enjoying every moment with mom

The triplets are one

Exploring life as toddlers

Big Sis is their best friend (they ADORE her!)

This spring welcoming a sweet miracle, Travers #5!!

And The Winner Is.....

2010-12-09T18:00:00.000-08:00

Home from soccer practice and enjoying a cookie,

Congratulations Sarah Kliethermes!! Thank you so much to everyone who responded to the blog as well. Stay tuned I hope to do more fun things in the future.

Leaving a little Christmas spirit as well, we had the most challenging time convincing Gavin that the ornaments needed to be hung throughout the tree.

A Baby Sister

2010-12-08T17:26:00.000-08:00

An unseasonably warm day in November made this session possible. Thank you mother nature for one amazing fall :)

Shaelyn, Newborn Session

2010-12-05T09:01:00.000-08:00

Those lips, the newborn hair and the sweet smell of new baby. The maternity session was beautiful but nothing prepared me for how perfect this little love bug was. Loved this baby.

Oh, sweetness

A mothers touch

Nothing quite like holding your first

The newborn wrinkles in her skin get me

Celebrations and Giveaways

2010-12-02T19:09:00.000-08:00

This is an EXTRA special post not to miss. I have four things to celebrate and I plan to celebrate Oprah style with a GIVEAWAY!

We spent last week in our hometown of Rockford Illinois with all our extended family and lots of old friends. Aside from the stop and go driving of traffic lights (one thing I love about StL is the highway system!) and icy temps we had a wonderful trip. I think we may have stayed a bit too long because I left with a serious case of homesickness.

Friday night we went to dinner at one of my favorite places in town Der Rathskeller. The food is great but the memories are even better. We walked downstairs and to the back tables where I saw my best friends, my dad and my sister. Confusion was first, then they yelled "Surprise!" I got it, it was an early birthday surprise... I'm 30 this Sunday. I can go on and on about 30 and everything that scares me about turning 30. But I won't. It's one of my celebrations. I'm not big on surprises but this was a good one. Kudos to Nick and good surprises.

The only gift I really wanted was a polaroid camera. Polaroid doesn't make them anymore but Fuji does. They have all sorts of cute models. My dad came through with the must have gift on my list. What I love most about the instant picture is just that... instant gratification. No worrying about downloading, editing a few flaws uploading to the lab and printing. The image is there within minutes. We are having a blast with this camera! It's hysterically huge but the images are a good size.

SO, what else could I have to celebrate?! Business stuff of course! This past week I hit 200 likes on facebook (keep them coming!) I blogged my 200th post and I am officially Cheryl M. Photography LLC.

To celebrate I want to do this Oprah style and give something away.

Here it is: All of my 200 fans get a Fuji Instax 210!!!

Just kidding, I don't have 200 cameras to give away but I DO have ONE

Fuji Instax 210 including two sets of film!

In the next week post a comment to THIS BLOG POSTING (all others are welcome but this posting will enter you in for the camera drawing) and one week from today (December 9th)

I will enter all the names in a hat and Gavin will draw the lucky winner.

Good luck and thank you friends!

Here is the Fuji Instax 210

I love this fun little (HUGE) camera and I can't wait to give one to someone else to enjoy

Thanksgiving Favorites:

Emsy and her Greys

Bumpi, Gavin and Cousin Ava

My besties at the Birthday Dinner

Somehow this was the ONLY shot of the four of us, thank goodness for the Fuji :)

A night cap with My sister Michelle. The perfect way to end the holiday week.

Emily, Maternity Session

2010-12-01T18:32:00.000-08:00

A maternity session without dad isn't typical but when dad is in Iraq the pregnancy must be documented. Emily was just ONE WEEK shy of meeting her daughter and few hours away from welcoming home her husband. The excitement and anticipation that surrounded her was contagious and I loved being with her and soaking up the energy. I was welcomed back last week to meet baby Shaelyn and her daddy. That post is coming soon :) For now, soak up this beautiful mom to be... it's okay to be a little jealous, most of us don't look this fabulous so late in pregnancy!

Go-To Girl

2010-11-28T19:34:00.000-08:00

They've been up here before, I always write about her insanely amazing sense of style and the fact that her girls are so stunning it melts me. Laura and her gorgeous family are back gracing the blog with more beauty and grace.

Laura is my go-to girl. They are building a new home (which I plan to photograph and blog as a huge spread because it is going to be AH Mazing) so with our renovation process she's the one I call to help choose the whites of blinds, carpet or leave the hardwood. Laura always answers my panic moment calls. It is usually when the deadline is up and I just have to make a choice. She's always right and I love her guidance :) Enjoy these, I do!!

A sweet moment of love,

Fave!

Oh Emily, a true second child :) I have one JUST like her,

Give Thanks

2010-11-25T09:00:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again. The sweet smells of turkey's roasting, pies baking accompanied by the sights and sounds of all things comforting. I am very thankful to be with my extended family this year and all the hustle and bustle the trip brings. Count your blessings and enjoy this beautiful day!

Cheers!

The Johns Family

2010-11-23T18:02:00.000-08:00

It was coooold this morning that we met, but the light was amazing and the kids were picturesque. Lylah and Lucas were sweet fun and held up considerably well despite the brisk temps! Love them and their beautiful mom and dad :)

Photog to the Photog

2010-11-21T19:34:00.000-08:00

I first met Cindy at a photography workshop. Then we happened to cross paths when I went on learning wedding with Kelly. It was Cindy's wedding! We recognized one another and a few months later she sent a wedding she couldn't shoot my way. We second shot for each other over the summer. I was floored when she asked ME to photograph her family. I spend a good portion of my life deep into photo blogs and comparing myself to my peers. So really, this was such an honor. I wasn't nervous until the drive there. Every photographer has a bit of hope in a session when it is their own family. Just a little inkling of what you want to come out of the shoot. We all do, we spend our lives deep into photography every single day. When we aren't researching or being inspired we see perfect shots in little moments throughout the day. It's just how we are. Can't get away from trying to preserve every sweet moment. So once I was on my way I started to panic about what she was hoping to see from my perspective.

Cindy's little man Jack is cool. He's just cool. He's going to be that cool kid that is still rockin' the vans when his friends don't have the cool factor to pull off the trend. Love him and his awesome mom and dad. Starting it off as always with my favorite:

So many different stories in this image:

My other fave of Jack:

My fave of Jack and mom. The light lasts such a short amount of time for this. The stars aligned for this moment for sure:

That LOOK :)

Jack and Ryan

2010-11-20T20:19:00.000-08:00

Hands down crazy easiest shoot EVER. The boys were amazing, played together picture perfectly and well, earned their toy trip to Target for being amazing. These guys are also a part of my "first families club" and I feel so blessed they keep me coming back to document each milestone.

My favorite of Jack:

Ryan and his headless brother... oh wait it's Jack :)

One of my most favorite family portraits:

Mom wanted lots of pictures of the boys together and this series totally depicts their personalities:

Estes, Fall 2010

2010-11-20T20:09:00.000-08:00

This little doll graces the header of my blog and melts me every time I see her. She's one of those babies that makes you think... yeah, I could do that again. And then I come to my senses :) Fantastically wonderful family every bit of nice as they are beautiful. Thank you for such an easy session!

Favorite!

Rana Family

2010-11-09T19:23:00.000-08:00

My blog has been neglected. It's just I am working so much and trying my best to get everyone their images in a timely manner the blog just falls behind. Please forgive me! This beautiful family just welcomed their second princess. Big sis is as photogenic as they come and could not have made my job more fun. Baby Nylah, 4 weeks in this session was quiet, sweet, mild manner and such a pleasure. Thank you Rana Family for choosing me to document your beautiful, beautiful family.

Stage Names and Rock Stars

2010-11-06T20:25:00.000-07:00

Katie Storms and Johnny Vines. Stage names? Rock Stars? Nope, these are their actually names. I'm not even joking. I really only know of one other person that can pull off the name Johnny. That would be Depp. So kudos Johnny Vines for rocking such a cool name.

Katie Storms is amazing. She committed to not buying anything new for ONE FULL YEAR check her journey on her blog. I was inspired too, I lasted one day. Not only is her carbon footprint barely visible she is crazy creative and talented. Check her etsy store Charmed Earth here.

Then there is Vito. Vito, Vito, Vito. The bulldog. He's their baby. One very big baby (he weighs about as much as a sixth grader) and is one ridiculously cute baby. When we didn't him for the certain parts of the shoot he would take a snooze in the back of the car. Cuddled up with his battery powered fan. 'Cause that's how Vito rolls. Here are a handful of faves:

I call this one Johnny's Quentin Tarantino impression:

Love it? Need one for a holiday gift? Check her on etsy!

Lots of funny face pictures were a must. Hopefully I made the holiday card list because Katie is brewing something bigger and better then the ugly sweater picture from last year.

Jennifer and Andy

2010-11-03T18:41:00.000-07:00

Mid-October, the weather was amazing and the lighting was picture perfect. Jen and Andy married at The Butterfly House. Jen was beaming, the day was going smooth and everything was falling into place. When I arrived Jen was beaming while in hair by Stacey Anzalone. She checked her phone often while she sat by the window while Rachel Nicholl did her makeup. A few texts back and forth from Andy, "I love yous" were prominent in each correspondence. Jen started to tear up when spoke about him and how lucky she felt to have found this man. A match made in heaven on a perfect day Jen and Andy committed their lives to one another. Special thanks to Cindy Feraro for second shooting with me and to Lindsey Harris for your beautiful images.

Jen and Andy opted for a First Look. This allowed us so much time to make some spectacular bridal portraits. Cindy grabbed this perfect expression during the first look,

Flowers by Stems,

Thanks to Lindsey for these fantastic cake shots,

Knock, Knock, Knock

2010-11-01T20:00:00.000-07:00

I'm turning 30 next month. 4 weeks. Once a faint call, 30 is banging on the door and the chain is the only thing keeping it away. I think about making a list of things I want to accomplish, but it concerns me that I won't accomplish the list and then 40 is going to be even harder then 30. Turning over a decade makes you think about where you were in comparison to where you are.
I left my hometown when I was 22. Tomorrow Nick and I go and buy our third and final home here in St. Louis. Our two year plan turned into two houses, two kids, a minivan and I am starting to show grey hair.

In the past decade I have learned the harder you work makes the reward so much sweeter. Your friends were once anyone who had a remotely common interest and time to hang out. Now, my friend pool is based on: 1. The ages of our children 2. Do our husbands get along? 3. Do our children get along? 4. Is the distance from our homes a reasonable travel distance? 5. Is this someone I want to devote time away from my family to? Once the basic criteria is met we move from there.... So you can imagine the friend pool I currently have... the whole husband thing trips us up a bit ( JUST KIDDING Nicholas, love you!)

In my twenties my husband went from someone I had fun with on the weekends to my rock solid partner I can't imagine a day without. I went from being a carefree college student to a full time mom and loving every moment (well, mostly every moment :) )

Leaving this post with a picture from yesterday. Gavin and I were trick or treating and it was just the two of us for a few minutes. He said "look mommy my shadow, I'm so big!" Yeah, buddy you are so big.

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-30T19:06:00.000-07:00

Have a fantastic Halloween!

This blog post isn't quite ready yet, but this shot was their idea and I think it fits the occasion perfectly :)

Our Jack-O-Lanterns:

Surprises around every corner

2010-10-26T19:45:00.000-07:00

Jake and Zack are part of the first families club. They have been with me from the very start. So much to my surprise Mom has "forgotten" about this magical magical location their extended family owns. It's a bit of a drive but worth every single minute to get there. I really should write about how big the boys are now, how much I adore them... which I do (all of the above) but the farm. THE FARM. It was like straight out of a catalog. Every detail, I couldn't have made it more perfect. The collections of antiques, the colors, the lighting. I was on sensory overload. I think I could have shot the grounds for two hours. I know I could do the next twenty sessions and still find little pockets of magic. I am toying with marathon sessions out here next year. It was just that amazing. Starting this post with a few of the location,

Inside on the small kitchen island,

Inside the barn,

One of my favorites of Jake,

Holiday card contender for sure,

Favorite of Zack

These fab stools were just sitting there, begging for a photo opp,

The kitchen table,

Of course the perfect flower was growing nearby,

The weathered gate under the trellis to the front door,

Just so happened to be a hole in the silo perfect for me to shoot through,

Really? Rusted toy dump trucks? I'm in love,

Holiday Card + Photo = Drama

2010-10-26T14:38:00.000-07:00

People always say to me "You must have tons of beautiful pictures of your children." I do, except they are all in their pj's, spiderman shirts or half naked being cute at the table while eating. I have very, very few pictures of our children dressed up and doing the whole formal smile at the camera thing. FEW. So I decided about a week ago after I saw the most amazing line of trees changing color I wanted to nail the Christmas card photo. Big mistake. I think the kids saw horns grow out of my head or maybe I grew three feet and turned green, I'm not sure which but there was no way they were going to give the split second of "smile at mommy... look at the camera" moment. So I resorted to the hold hands and walk to mommy bit. Turned out cute, this one will be framed, but it wasn't the shot I wanted. I'm just like every mom when it comes to your own kids and pictures. I stress, I can't decide what they should wear and they feed off that energy. Big time. Here is what may/may not grace our cards to friends and family this season:

Those Halloween decorations across the street were Sooooo distracting:

Yep Emy, I see the decorations, no it's not a dog dog.

Or else we resort to this, nothing says Happy Holidays like this:

Baby Kingston

2010-10-26T14:16:00.000-07:00

I adore edgy names. This is Kingston, he has a rock star name and rock star hair to go along with his image. Here are a handful of faves from his sweet newborn session. His big brother Clayton is here too, I'm sure he will be the lead with Kingston on back-up. Super cool boys!

Flynn Family

2010-10-25T18:50:00.000-07:00

Cole was on my blog last year at Christmas. He grabbed my heart then and hasn't let go. He is so sweet and SUCH a little man. Oh, his parents are pretty fab too :) Loved this session, my favorite picture is (and I would do a canvas) the very last photograph.

Okay, this one was my favorite family shot:

Baby Luke

2010-10-21T19:26:00.000-07:00

The Kliethermes family was one of my first clients. I have been with them for all the big milestones and now, welcoming their newest addition, Baby Luke. He is the perfect mix of both his sister and brother :) I love him and I look forward to capturing his milestones too!

The above and below are my favorites!

Twice as Nice

2010-10-19T20:11:00.000-07:00

Oh Twins! I love them! Lylah runs the show. She's a daddy's girl and her mega blue eyes are going to break some hearts. Jack's smile lights up a room. He's sweet and lets his sis boss him around... she's the girl! I look forward to joining these peanuts at their first birthday. Mom is already planning the details :)

So I think mom has a strong resemblance to Kate Middleton... although she gets Katie Holmes a lot... it's a toss up :) She's gorgeous that's for sure!

Danielle's Senior Session

2010-10-18T19:35:00.000-07:00

Coordinating schedules in the fall season can be challenging. When I told Danielle the ONLY date we coordinated was going to have to be an 8:30am meet time I could here the panic in her voice. That was early, it was a Saturday, the same day as homecoming. I thought for sure it was a no go. She surprised me and said "I can do that" and I am so glad she did because the magic that morning was amazing. The dress, the light, the white fence and the purple flowers. Ahh... sometimes the stars just align like that. Thank you Danielle for the opportunity to document the end of one chapter and the beginning of the next. You are beautiful!

Chen Boys

2010-10-14T19:15:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again! The Chen boys are back :) The light was amazing and colors looked fantastic. Their home is on the market because their baby sister is due in December! This is the last time they will do a photo shoot as a family of four. After a few shots in Forest Park we headed back to their amazing Dog Town home (if anyone is in the market for a move-ready city gem!) for the last part of the shoot. Yes, mom has only 10 weeks to go in her pregnancy and she doesn't look a day over 12 weeks :)

Parker's 4th Birthday

2010-10-14T18:58:00.000-07:00

Parker's birthday sort of resembles Hanukkah. It's a multi-event, numerous day affair. The first was his friends party. Our son was invited so we took part in the festivities at the St. Louis Zoo. It was a huge hit. Next was the day at the ballpark. The Wolf Pack are monster Cardinal fans so it is only fitting that the photographer comes along to document the day. I had an absolute blast! Great seats, food, tons of fun and lots of opps for photos. THEN, the next day was the family party. I was along to grab pictures of extended family and Parker's little sis Ella. It was her 6 month time. These are just a handful of favorites from the time I spent with the Wolf Pack.

Themed Challenge ~Motherhood~

2010-10-10T10:58:00.000-07:00

She is one week shy of 2, a little lady who loves designer bags, her tinkerbelle barbie and pushing her babies in her stroller. Emmersen and her mommy have "coffee" (Mom has coffee and Emme sips juice from a mug that is just the right size) to start their day. Today she has just a bit of chocolate, because it compliments her "coffee" perfectly.