life in picture photography

NEW blog! | Erin Vossler Photography

2010-09-04T14:56:00.000-07:00

It's finally here & ready... my NEW blog! It's about time I got rid of all of the Life in Picture Photography stuff, since it's been nearly a year since I changed to Erin Vossler Photography!

So here it is: THE NEW BLOG! Make sure you update your bookmarks, because all of the new stuff will be happening over at the NEW blog! Plus--I'm going to have a fun contest to win a free session, so make sure you head to the new blog and find out how you can win!

And thanks to all of my loyal blog stalkers & followers! :)

Erin Vossler Photography Blog

2010 Holiday Card Designs are Here! | Brookings, SD Child and Family Photography

2010-09-04T12:22:00.000-07:00

I'm super excited to "unveil" my 2010 Holiday Cards! I really love every one of these designs... they're all a little different than the typical holiday cards, at least when it comes to the colors, etc., but who says every Christmas card has to be red and green. Right? :)

So here they are! If you've had a photo session (or a wedding!) in the past year with Erin Vossler Photography, you can order Christmas cards with your favorite photos from your session. Cards come in sets of 24 and include white envelopes, and can be completely customized with your own greeting, names, etc.

"Soft Holiday" Cards

"Retro Holiday" Cards

"Not So Holiday" Cards

"Mod Holiday" Cards

"Jolly Holiday" Cards

"Oh What Fun! Holiday" Cards

And if you haven't had family photos taken yet, don't worry... there's still time! Take advantage of the Holiday Mini-Sessions on October 22nd & 23rd and October 29th & 30th. You'll get a 30 minute session and your choice of one of the 3 Holiday Collections.

Call or email to order your holiday cards, or to book your family's Holiday Mini-Session! erin.vossler@gmail.com or 605.641.9664

Abby & Luke, Engaged! | Brookings, SD Engagement Photography

2010-09-01T09:59:00.001-07:00

Abby and Luke had perfect weather for their engagement session... we hit the golden hour for light and I absolutely love their photos! I really had a great time during their engagement session, and I'm looking forward to their wedding on September 25th (my and my husband's anniversary!). :)

This last shot was my very very favorite of the night!

2010 Holiday Mini-Sessions! | Brookings, SD Family Photography

2010-08-31T06:28:00.000-07:00

Ladies Night at Megan's was a blast! Thanks to everyone for stopping by and saying hello! We booked some great sessions that I'm really looking forward to. :)

And now that tomorrow is the first day of September (seriously, HOW did that happen?? Where exactly did the summer go??) I'm officially opening up the time slots for my Holiday Mini-Sessions! You can find more information below... to book your Mini-Session, all you have to do is email me your preferred day & time, and then mail me a $50 deposit to reserve your session. The $50 will be applied to your total amount which is due the day of your session. Easy enough, right?? :)

Keep an eye on the blog for previews of some of the great holiday cards that are available this year... and contact me right away to book your Holiday Mini-Session! Times will go fast, and this is a great way to not only get some awesome photos for your Christmas cards, but also pick up some prints to give as gifts to grandparents, friends, and other family members, too! :)

1st Annual Shopping at Megan's Party!

2010-08-30T06:31:00.000-07:00

I'm super excited to be a part of the 1st Annual Shopping at Megan's Party tonight! It will be held at Megan's Back Porch in Arlington, SD (119 S. Main Street) tonight and the fun starts at 7pm. Come on down and enjoy free food, happy hour price drinks, and do a little shopping! There will be reps from Avon, Pampered Chef, Scentsy, Mary Kay, Tastefully Simple, and even Party Gals, along with purses, jewelry... and of course, Erin Vossler Photography!

I'll be having an awesome "Double your Money" special tonight only... buy a gift certificate, and it will be worth DOUBLE what you pay for it! Pick some up as gifts for family and friends, and buy one for yourself, too!

I'll also be booking for my 2010 Holiday Mini-Sessions beginning tonight, and if you book your session at Megan's you'll get $25 off... not to mention, you'll get first pick of the mini-sessions. :)

So grab your girlfriends (it's a ladies-only night!) and come see us tonight at Megan's!

Brecken, 4 years! | Brookings, SD Child Photographer

2010-08-25T18:17:00.000-07:00

This blog post is two parts... the first: Brecken's official 4 year photo shoot! We headed out to the farm on one of the super hot, humid days we had last week so I had to work quick--Brecken isn't a fan of taking pictures anyway, much less when it's melting hot outside. But he gave me 15 minutes and I got so many new favorites of him. Now the hard part is deciding what to print, how big (I'm thinking HUGE on quite a few of these!) and where to hang them!

And the second part... not only did Brecken turn 4 years old this month, but he also started a brand-new daycare and PRE-SCHOOL! So far he loves them both, and it's fun to look through his folders after he gets home to see what he did that day. I'll say it again--HOW is it possible that he's four years old??

So here he is on his very first day of big-boy school. He humored me (again) and let me take some pictures of him in the front yard before we left.

He's got his Buzz Lightyear backpack & he's excited to go!

REALLY excited!

Putting on a backpack can be tricky...

Okay I'm serious, no more pictures, let's go.

When we got to the school I made him take a couple more in front (I know, I torture him). Just as we were getting ready to take it, Rylee and his friend came running out for recess! Rylee was super excited to see Brecken, and had lots to tell him (that's Rylee on the left--he talks with his hands obviously, haha!). Brecken was thrilled to death to be going to school where Rylee goes... look at that big 'ol grin!

"Come on mom, let's GO!"

Kirk, Class of 2011 | Brookings, SD Senior Photographer

2010-08-25T11:10:00.003-07:00

Kirk was senior/cousin #4! Kirk and his mom definitely deserve a medal for the mosquitoes they had to endure the night of his session... they've been bad this year, but they were by far the WORST on this night! They were real troopers though, and I think it was totally worth it because I love the photos we got!

Kirk also got to be the first to use the newest prop my dad has set up for me--a rusty old blue Ford pick-up! This pick-up sat out next to one of my dad's fields for 35 years, and he moved it to an awesome spot for me to use. It worked perfect for these shots of Kirk!

Thanks again Kirk and DeDe, and I'm sorry I forgot to bring the bugspray!

My baby is FOUR!

2010-08-25T11:10:00.001-07:00

It's extremely hard to believe, but on August 11th by little baby boy turned four years old. How is that possible? On one hand, I can't remember life before he came into this world... and on the other hand, it literally feels like just yesterday I was holding my little newborn baby.

Okay, enough of the mushy stuff! Brecken's birthday was on a Wednesday this year, so he woke up that morning and had a pile of presents from mommy & daddy to open right away. :)

He was really excited to see them all!

And he dug right in...

It was super, SUPER hot out that day, so we stayed in as much as possible. Because Brecken's birthday party was on Saturday, along with his birthday cake, we made rainbow cupcakes to enjoy!

How cute are they?!

And then Brecken layed down for awhile with his new friends, Buzz, Jessie, Woody & Rex (Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head not pictured).

After supper (spaghetti, Brecken's very favorite!) we dug into the cupcakes!

... waiting patiently for us to finish singing happy birthday so he can blow them out!

It took a lot of concentration I guess.

And then... Jason smashed a cupcake in Brecken's face!

Which he thought was HILARIOUS, and he kept asking Jason to do it again!

Saturday was the big party! Here are all of the favor bags ready for Brecken's friends to arrive.

And of course, my gorgeous rainbow cupcakes! (I'm really proud of them, can you tell??) I borrowed my mom's cakestand to display them on and it matched perfectly!

Blowing out the candles on his "real" birthday cake... again, intense concentration required.

He blew them all out!

What a cheeser. :)

Happy birthday Brecken! You're my favorite little boy in the whole world, and I'm so lucky to be your mommy! :)

Emma, Gabe & Grace! | Brookings, SD Family Photographer

2010-08-19T12:30:00.000-07:00

Emma, Gabe and Grace brought their mom & dad for a family session, and it was lots of fun! :) They kept me on my toes, and we got a lot of great shots despite all of the mosquitoes that were attacking us!

Lindsie & Mike, Engaged! | Brookings, SD Engagement Photographer

2010-08-19T12:29:00.001-07:00

Are you keeping up with all of the new blog posts?? I told you it's been a crazy-busy summer! SO crazy-busy, in fact, that these two have already gotten married... and I'm just now getting around to sharing their engagement session!

Lindsie is a good friend who I used to work with. She and Mike met up with me at Spencer Park in Sioux Falls for their engagement session, and it was not only a beautiful location but a sentimental one, too... Mike popped the question to Lindsie here, on the very bridge in these pictures. Too cute!

Keep checking back for their wedding images, coming very soon--there are some amazing shots you won't want to miss! :)

Jessyn, Class of 2011 | Brookings, SD Senior Photographer

2010-08-19T12:24:00.000-07:00

Jessyn is--yep, you guessed it!--another cousin. :) She's the only girl out of the four this year, and I had SO much fun during her session! I also babysat her when she was little, and that cute little girl grew up into a gorgeous young woman. I had so many favorites from her session, it was hard to pick which ones to share!

Umm... a yellow prom dress and a John Deere tractor?? YES PLEASE! :)

It was cloudy and overcast during the whole session... until sunset. The sky and the light were amazing!

Thanks for a fun evening, Jessyn! Good luck your senior year!

Tyler, Class of 2011 | Brookings, SD Senior Photographer

2010-08-19T12:23:00.000-07:00

Another senior, and another cousin! Apparently all of my Smith cousins were pregnant at the same time, because I've had four cousins call me up and tell me they have seniors this year! This is my cousin Jackie's son Tyler... he was in South Dakota for the first part of the summer visiting, so I had the chance to take his senior photos before he hopped on a plane and went back home to North Carolina.

Thanks Tyler, and have a great senior year!

Knee-high by the 4th of July | Brookings, SD Child Photographer

2010-08-19T12:21:00.002-07:00

My dad specifically requested this photo... my Grandpa C.P., my dad's dad, had a brother named Al. Before my grandpa passed away, whenever Uncle Al would come to visit he would always ask my dad, "How's the crops? Gonna be knee-high by the 4th?" Apparently that used to be the way farmers judged how well things were going--if their corn was knee-high by the 4th of July. Now, with all of the fertilizers, sprays, etc., meeting the knee-high deadline is much easier. But my dad still asked that we get a photo of him and his boys (my son Brecken and nephew Rylee) out in this year's corn. This was taken on July 3rd, and as you can see the corn is well over knee-high... and on the THIRD of July. :)

These two boys pretty much worship the ground my dad walks on. He is not only an amazing dad, but an amazing papa, too. My dad never asks for much, and is always going out of his way to help me, my sisters, or anyone else who needs it. I feel extremely blessed to have such an awesome dad and papa for my son. :)

Darcy and Jamie, 06.26.10 | Brookings, SD Wedding Photographer

2010-08-19T12:21:00.001-07:00

Darcy and Jamie were my first couple to have rain on their wedding day... and not just rain, but threats of hail and severe thunderstorms, too. Thankfully the hail passed us, and the rain held off until after the ceremony. Despite the weather, Jamie and Darcy had a beautiful wedding day and ended up with a ton of great photos!

Congratulations Jamie and Darcy!

Brittany and Ryan, 06.25.10 | Brookings, SD Wedding Photographer

2010-08-19T12:20:00.001-07:00

Brittany and Ryan's wedding was the first in a double-header weekend, and it was a great start! Every detail, moment, and emotion was incredible, and it was a truly beautiful wedding to witness. :)

Thanks again Brittany, Ryan and Jace!

Rachel and Grant, 06.19.10 | Brookings, SD Wedding Photographer

2010-08-19T11:50:00.001-07:00

Chelsey and I had so much fun at Rachel and Grant's wedding! It was a gorgeous summer day, with a gorgeous couple AND wedding party. :)

Congratulations again, and thanks for allowing us to be part of your day!

Optique Family Vision Care | Brookings, SD Commercial Phothographer

2010-08-19T11:23:00.000-07:00

I have been REALLY slacking with my blog! I have a TON of posts to catch you all up on--it's been a busy summer, and I've got lots to show for it! :)

First up during the blog-a-thon--Optique Family Vision Care! I got the chance to step outside my comfort zone while I was in Ohio and do some commercial work for this great company. Kendra and Lisa, both employees at Optique, did a little modeling and they did an awesome job! It was a lot of fun to do something different, and I love how the shots turned out!

Optique offers some great choices for sunglasses, too! I loved these so much I bought a pair for myself!

And Brecken and Gavin, Kendra's son, took a picture especially for Doc... he's a huge Ohio State fan!

Back to School Special!

2010-08-18T18:02:00.000-07:00

Karter Jo, 5 months | Brookings, SD Child Photographer

2010-07-14T12:45:00.000-07:00

Tell me how it's possible that my niece is already 5 months old??

She's still a perfect model... even winking for the camera!

This one is, by far, my FAVORITE of the whole session!

Baby Brecken, 5 days | Brookings, SD Newborn Photographer

2010-07-14T12:31:00.000-07:00

I have been so excited about this session since I met RaeAnn and Justin! At their maternity session they told me they were thinking about naming their little boy Brecken--and I of course LOVE the name!

Little Brecken was 5 days old at his newborn session and he did a great job. I'm so excited to watch another little Brecken grow up!

The Fenner Family! | Brookings, SD Family Photographer

2010-07-14T12:20:00.000-07:00

I met up with half of the Fenner family on a warm summer night filled with mosquitoes! We all covered ourselves in bug spray, but unfortunately bug spray doesn't seem to cut it this year--the mosquitoes are awful!

We braved the conditions though, and got a lot of great shots! We had a hard time scheduling a time for the whole family to do the session, so the second half of the Fenner family will be coming soon. :)

I love the kids' smiles in this one while mom & dad kiss!

Christmas in July!

2010-07-05T06:24:00.000-07:00

It might be hard to even THINK about Christmas right now, but take advantage of this awesome deal now and get one thing crossed off your holiday to-do list!

Book your family photo session during the month of July and get a 30 minute session, 24 5x7 Christmas cards, and 20% off all additional prints and products ordered before August 31st! It's the perfect way to get an updated family portrait & also get those Christmas cards out of the way early... not to mention the 20% discount to buy friends & family prints as gifts!

Call 605.641. 9664 or email erin.vossler@gmail.com to schedule your Christmas in July family session!

Austin, Class of 2011 | Brookings, SD Senior Photographer

2010-07-01T11:32:00.000-07:00

It was great meeting up with Austin for his senior photo session! I actually used to babysit Austin and his brothers during the summers when I was in high school... his mom and I are first cousins. It's a little surreal to think that Austin is already going to be a senior, since I've known him since he was born! Even though I picture a cute little toddler who used to call me "Erinjoy" whenever I think about him, he's all grown up now and I'm thankful I got the chance to take his senior pictures.

Have a great senior year Austin, and best of luck!

This is just one of the photos that I couldn't decide between, color or black and white. :)

Loved this one in black & white, too!

Tori, Class of 2011 | Brookings, SD Senior Photographer

2010-06-29T14:54:00.000-07:00

Tori was the second senior from Ohio! We had a lot of fun during her session... we went all over and found tons of great locations, and Tori even put on her prom dress and got into a lake! She had so many awesome images I had a hard time choosing my favorites to share. :)

Thanks for a fun afternoon, Tori! Enjoy the rest of your summer before your senior year starts up, and good luck in the future!

I loved this one in black & white, too!

Storm, Class of 2011 | Brookings, SD Senior Photographer

2010-06-29T14:49:00.001-07:00

Storm was just one of the seniors I had the chance to meet and photograph in Ohio! We had some cool locations, and a REALLY cool car to borrow for his senior pictures!

Thanks for being a good sport, Storm... hopefully it wasn't too painful! Have a great senior year. :)

Cory + Kate, Engaged! | Sioux Falls, SD Engagement and Wedding Photographer

2010-06-24T12:54:00.000-07:00

I am in LOVE with this session!

I met up with Cory and Kate at the Outdoor Campus in Sioux Falls for their engagement photos, and the scenery, the lighting, the couple... everything was perfect! EXCEPT for the mosquitoes--I swear I got nearly 40 mosquito bites, and I would gladly do it again because the photos we got were SO worth it!

Kate and Cory are getting married in January 2011, and I love that their engagement photos will be a stark contrast to the photos we take on their wedding day... these are all warm and summery! :)

I love love love me some flare.

I tried something a little different on this one--the yellow flowers, tall grass, and mood of this shot called for some vintage. :)

Seriously, the light could not have been more perfect.

Just for fun, in case you don't believe me when I say the mosquitoes were bad... I have so many outtakes from Kate and Cory's session where they are mid-bite from a mosquito!
This one is the most hilarious, because their expressions match exactly!

My session favorite! (And it was HARD to choose!)
Another vintage feel, perfect for Cory and Kate. :)

Thanks for braving the bugs with me Kate and Cory! I'll bring a can of bugspray with next time. ;) Can't wait for your winter wedding!

Gavin, 9 months | Brookings, SD Child Photographer

2010-06-23T19:48:00.001-07:00

Gavin was Ohio session #2, and the light was AMAZING! Poor little Gavin got a little tired of me and my camera, and he was by far more interested in the grass and everything around him... but we still got a LOT of great shots of this cute little guy!

Heath + Jenna, Engaged! | Brookings, SD Engagement Photographer

2010-06-23T18:09:00.000-07:00

Here is the first of my Ohio sneak peeks! Jenna and Heath were my first session while my family and I were in Ohio, and they definitely started things off on the right foot! I had an absolute blast with these two... we started in an amazing alley in Washington Court House, and then finished the session at Jenna's mom and dad's farm--where Heath and Jenna are getting married next summer!

Congratulations you two... and if you're still looking for a wedding photographer, you know I have a place to stay in Court House! :)

Campbell & Jude | Brookings, SD Newborn Twin Photographer

2010-06-23T13:27:00.000-07:00

These little babies make my heart smile...

Join our mailing list!

2010-06-16T07:23:00.000-07:00

I'm really excited to launch my new email marketing list! All you have to do is follow THIS LINK and register, and you'll be the first to hear about awesome specials, fun mini-sessions, discounts and more!

Don't worry... your email address won't be shared with anyone else, and you won't get spammed every day. :)

So sign up today, and watch for the first email-only discount coming in the next week!

Karter Jo, 4 months | Brookings, SD Child Photographer

2010-06-06T18:48:00.002-07:00

How is it possible that my beautiful little niece is already 4 months old??

James, Becky, Clara and little James | Brookings, SD Family Photographer

2010-06-06T18:47:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun with this family! They came from Minnesota for their session after winning it as part of a facebook contest on our fan page (are you a fan yet? you could win free stuff too! click here and maybe you'll be next!). Miss Clara had to warm up to me first, but once she did we got a lot of really great shots! And little James... he was a dream the whole session. :)

Thanks again Becky, James, Clara and little James!

RaeAnn, Justin & Baby | Brookings, SD Maternity Photographer

2010-06-06T18:31:00.000-07:00

You'll be seeing a lot more of the little one behind this adorable baby bump... he/she's one of my Baby's First Year participants!

It was a perfect night for their session--how gorgeous is this light?? LOVE it!

June Senior Special! | Brookings, SD senior photography

2010-06-03T06:04:00.001-07:00

Class of 2011--don't miss out on this AWESOME deal!

Emarie Kayla Ann, 5 days | Brookings, SD newborn photographer

2010-06-03T05:57:00.000-07:00

Little Miss Emarie was just 5 days old during her first photo session, and she was an absolute DREAM to photograph! She let me fold and bend her and she slept right through it all... what a great little model! And look at all of that gorgeous dark hair--LOVED it!

The Fresh Faces!

2010-05-31T05:56:00.000-07:00

The Fresh Faces sessions were a HUGE success! We had awesome weather (save for the first day when it rained), awesome surroundings (how gorgeous is this farm??) and EXTRA awesome models!

They were such a success that we will definitely be holding more Fresh Faces sessions in the future! Keep an eye here on the blog and also the Erin Vossler Photography fan page (click HERE to become a fan!) to see when the next Fresh Faces casting call is announced. :)

And now... on to all of the great new Fresh Faces!

A BIG thank you again to all of the models & their parents! :)

Summer | Brookings, South Dakota Child Photographer

2010-05-18T20:42:00.000-07:00

A very wise friend of mine told me that I should post more personal, day to day stuff on my blog. So here I am. :)

Brecken and I spent the day at home together on Monday since I didn't have to work at my part-time job. He goes to daycare three days a week, so at least one day every week we are home together. I wish I could say that we spend that time together doing arts and crafts, or going on adventures, but instead usually those days are spent trying to catch up on housework or running errands--stuff that is boring to Brecken. So on Monday we stayed home, didn't do any housework, and didn't run any errands. We did what Brecken wanted to do--which is play outside.

I swear, I am NOT an outside mom. But somehow, I wound up with an outside kid. Brecken literally would spend every waking minute outside if he could... and he is actually really easy when we are out because he entertains himself and loves it so much, he pretty much never complains. The only problem is, though, that if he's outside I have to be. And like I mentioned, I'm not so much the outside-mom type. It wouldn't be so bad if I could send him outside and then get stuff done in the house while he was out playing--but because he's 3 (he'll turn 4 in August--WOW!) and we don't have a fenced in yard, I have to be on suicide watch. Which entails making sure he doesn't kill himself by walking into traffic, falling down window wells, getting in my car and driving away in it, etc... if it's dangerous, he's going to want to do it.

So by 8:30am Monday morning Brecken and I were already outside for the day. And we didn't go in until 12 hours later, when it was time for Brecken's shower and bed (we even ate supper outside that night, because it was gorgeous out!). Brecken rode his bike, played in the dirt, went on a 4-wheeler ride with Papa, played on the slide and the swing... by the time he was in bed, the kid was WIPED out.

It's easy, as a photographer, to get so caught up in taking photos of other people and their kids that you forget to take them of your own too. And I'm not talking about portrait-type photos--it's the every day ones, to document their little lives before they're big and grown up. So on this Monday, I remembered to. I didn't make him change out of his grubby sweatpants and stained white t-shirt... I didn't make him let me comb & style his hair up into his faux-hawk... I didn't even make him let me clean off the dirt ring around his mouth. I just let him be the messy, dirty, stinky, adorable little boy he is.

And then I took his picture.

Carianne and Baby #2! | Brookings, South Dakota Maternity Photography

2010-05-14T12:30:00.000-07:00

Carianne is expecting baby #2 in June and she looks amazing! Big sister Alice came along and took some pictures with her new brother or sister too--it's going to be a surprise the day he or she is born to see if that bump is a boy or a girl! I'm always so impressed by people who can resist temptation and wait until their baby's birth day to find out if they're having a boy or a girl--I was way too impatient, and had to know as soon as possible! :)

Carianne is a gorgeous pregnant mommy!

I couldn't decide if I liked the color or black and white version the best, so I'm sharing both!

Alice "tickling" her brother or sister through mommy's belly button!

We barely missed the rain--see the black clouds rolling in behind Carianne? This might be my favorite shot of the day!

Thanks again Carianne, and congratulations to you and Heath and Alice too! I can't wait to meet Baby Becker! :)

Darcy and Jamie, Engaged! (v.2!) | Brookings, South Dakota Wedding Photography

2010-05-07T13:32:00.001-07:00

The weather was MUCH different the day of Jamie and Darcy's second engagement session! We met up this winter for a few quick shots for their invitations, and did the "real" engagement session last weekend. I am in LOVE with all of the green everywhere! It's finally spring--and almost summer!--and I can't wait for Jamie and Darcy's wedding next month!

Callie, Tom and River | Brookings, South Dakota Family Photographer

2010-05-07T10:41:00.001-07:00

Callie and Tom are some of my husband and my closest friends... Callie and I actually met in Spearfish at Applebee's when I was still a bartender and she was a host! They recently added a new member to the family, their puppy River, and they drove all the way to the east side of the state to get some family photos taken. It was a SUPER windy day, especially out at my dad's farm, but they were troopers and we got some really great photos!

Thanks again Cals and Tom for coming for the day--it was the best!

Mother's Day Gift Certificate Special! | Brookings, SD Family Photographer

2010-05-02T20:01:00.000-07:00

Still looking for the perfect gift for the special mom in your life? Or are you a mom, hoping to get a gift you'll really love this year? We've got a great special to make it easy for you this year!

Born to Rock! | Brookings, South Dakota Child Photographer

2010-04-25T19:21:00.000-07:00

I tried out a new garage studio set-up this week and Brecken, Rylee and Karter Jo helped model for me! I absolutely LOVE how these shots turned out... I've been trying to get some really amazing photos of Brecken to print as large canvases for our home, so I was thrilled that he cooperated--even if it was only for about 6 minutes total, it was plenty of time to get some large print-worthy shots!

If you'd like to schedule your own session for your children with this studio set-up, just let me know! :)

This first one is for sure my very very favorite...

Rylee's turn!

Miss Karter Jo turned 3 months old the day of our session. She is getting so big (and SMILEY)!

And some fun shots of Rylee and Brecken showing their muscles!

Isaac and Max

2010-04-17T20:20:00.001-07:00

Could these brothers be any cuter??

Brittany + Ryan, Engaged!

2010-04-17T20:06:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun with Brittany and Ryan... they're a great couple, lots of fun! I can't wait for their wedding this summer. :)

I just realized how nearly every one of the previews are kissing shots! I made them kiss a lot. ;)

FREE Fresh Faces Mini Portrait Sessions!

2010-04-16T07:07:00.001-07:00

Karter Jo | South Dakota newborn photographer

2010-03-19T09:51:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that my little niece Karter Jo is almost 2 months old already! She has had a busy first two months of life... she struggled with jaundice and had to be admitted to the castle (Sanford's Children's Hospital) because of it. She got better, and then the poor baby got pneumonia and went back into the castle again. It looks like she is finally okay now, thank goodness!

So anyway, here are little Miss Karter's photos from when she was still a tiny newborn. She has been a perfect model for me so far, and I can't wait for our next session!

And some shots of Karter's birth announcements. They turned out adorable!

the front:

middle:

and the back:

Class of 2011!

2010-03-03T10:14:00.001-08:00

2011 Seniors ... it's time to start thinking about your senior pictures!

If you're interested in being a V.I.P. Senior, and getting a discounted senior session and a bunch of cool free products and prints, email me at erin.vossler@gmail.com for an application!

And don't forget to become a fan on facebook!

Newborn & Baby Casting Call!

2010-03-01T07:27:00.000-08:00

Are you expecting a new little one, or do you have a 6-9 month old? Would you like a free photo session? Contact me right away--a limited number of Free Casting Call sessions are available!

Darcy and Jamie, Engaged!

2010-02-28T19:07:00.000-08:00

I met up with Darcy and Jamie today for a quick engagement session, and the weather was awesome! After what seems like months and months and months of freezing cold temperatures, today there was a heatwave--above 20 degrees--perfect for getting back outside and taking some fun photos for a fun couple!

Renae and Steve, 12.05.09

2010-02-22T14:45:00.000-08:00

Steve and Renae had a beautiful wedding on a crisp, cold day in December. Every little detail had a pretty strong theme... CHRISTMAS! Renae is a self-renowned Christmas fanatic, and in our first meeting she (and her parents too!) told me how much she truly, truly loves Christmas. It was only fitting that her wedding be in December... and she and Steve even got some snow on their big day!

The awesome shot below is courtesy of my assistant, Chelsey:

And these next two amazing photos are courtesy of my friend/extra assistant for the day, Dana:

Those are some brave (and dedicated!) bridesmaids, tossing their coats aside in the freezing cold for a photo!

Wedding rings in a Christmas tree. Pretty sure those are some of Renae's favorite things. :)

These friends of Renae's dad were definitely some characters!

You know it's a good party when the groomsmen skip the cup and go straight for the pitcher! :)

And what's a Christmas wedding without a dance with Santa??

Congratulations again, Renae and Steve!

Welcome to the world, Miss Karter Jo!

2010-01-22T18:12:00.000-08:00

I'm so happy to introduce to you my new niece, Miss Karter Jo! She was born early this morning, January 22nd, at 5:55am weighing 8 pounds, 2 ounces and 20.5 inches long. And as you can see... she is GORGEOUS! We are all so excited she is finally here, and I admit we're all in love with her already. :)

She's such a great model already... wearing just one of the many headbands, hats and other cute girly things I have for her to wear during our photo sessions!

Soooo sleepy. It's hard work being born!

She was not happy when the nurse came in and interrupted her nap!

Tiny, tiny toes...

Cute & adorable, even when she cries. :)

And just like that, she was fine again.

Never mind! She remembered that she was still mad!

Sound asleep in Nanni's arms. :)

Congratulations Kylie, Russ and Rylee. And welcome to the world, Miss Karter Jo!

Miss Karter Jo!

2009-12-29T10:01:00.001-08:00

This is a really, really exciting post for me to share! In just four days, on Friday, January 22nd my sister Kylie is being induced... and my new little niece Karter Jo will be here!

Kylie and I did a few quick maternity shots of her last month, and we'll be doing more this week before she is induced. They turned out really neat, and I've got some more ideas for Kylie's last maternity session before Miss Karter Jo arrives!

Keep your eye on the blog for cute, squishy newborn baby photos, coming VERY soon! :)

Karter's first photo with her brother Rylee and cousin Brecken!

Such a proud big brother already. :)

They got very serious when we told them to listen and see if Karter was talking to them. :)

And since we had the backdrops out... we did a quick photo shoot with the naughty boys!

Mr. Rotten (also known as Brecken!)

2009-12-29T10:00:00.004-08:00

I've said it before... taking photos of your own kid is NEXT TO IMPOSSIBLE. It's especially impossible if I'm taking them for a specific purpose, like oh say, Christmas cards. I'm not sure what exactly was happening on this snowy morning when I decided to take Brecken outside for some Christmas card shots, but believe it or not--he ACTUALLY cooperated! It only lasted about 10 minutes, but that was plenty of time to get lots of great shots of Mr. Rotten!

Such a ham...

And the reason I torture myself every year... our Christmas card! It turned out really awesome this year, despite all of the blood, sweat and tears I had to endure to make it happen.

(Okay, that is maybe exaggerating a little... BUT, the family session was pretty tough. Chelsey, my assistant, took them for us and I actually had to swap Brecken's head from another photo to make the one on the front of our card. Shh--don't tell anyone!)

I hope all of you had a wonderful holiday season!

Kennedy, Mike and Julie | family photography

2009-12-29T10:00:00.003-08:00

It's always fun to get together with my cousin-slash-best friend, Julie, and her family... and even MORE fun when I get to take their pictures, too! We got together on a chilly fall afternoon to get some new, updated family photos. We got some great ones of little Miss Kennedy too--she and my son, Brecken are the best of friends and love playing together!

Jamie + Corey Engaged!

2009-12-29T10:00:00.001-08:00

I had such a blast during this engagement session, not only because Corey and Jamie are a fun, cute couple... but because Jamie is one of my very best friends! Because I'm a bridesmaid I won't be able to shoot their wedding, but I wanted to take their engagement photos as an early wedding gift to them both. :) Jamie and I did a lot of wedding planning together, since we were engaged at the same time, and it was fun to have another bride-to-be to talk wedding details with!

Looking at all of the pretty fall colors in their engagement photos is making me miss warmer weather!

Corey and Jamie are huge Vikings fans, and so is their dog, Beau (check out his collar)! I love this shot of Beau looking at them while they sneak a kiss. :)

How amazing is this?! This is how Corey proposed to Jamie... they had a weekend planned in the cities to catch a couple Twins games (if you haven't guessed yet, they are both huge Twins fans too!), and Corey had someone at the front desk of their hotel bring them a "complimentary gift bag" up to their room after they checked in. Corey told Jamie to open it, and this shirt was inside! SUPER cute!

Loving the extra-yummy light here. :)

And probably my favorite shots of the day... Jamie's parents own King's Lanes bowling alley in Arlington, and we snuck in to take a few shots. The vintage feel these have works so perfect in the bowling alley!

Congratulations again Jamie and Corey, I cannot WAIT for your wedding day!

The faces of Erin Vossler Photography!

2009-12-29T09:36:00.002-08:00

It's a new year, and 2010 is bringing some new and exciting changes that I'm excited to share with everyone!

First of all, as you probably noticed by the title--Life in Picture Photography is now Erin Vossler Photography! I'm VERY excited about this, and I have been working with an awesome graphic designer who is designing me a brand-spanking-new logo, not to mention a complete new branding concept. I can't wait to see it all finished--it should be very soon! Keep an eye on the blog to see the new "look," as well as a blog "facelift" in the upcoming months!

And secondly... I am absolutely THRILLED to introduce my new assistant, Chelsey Schnell! She is a great friend of mine, and a great photographer, and she will be second-shooting with me at all of my 2010 weddings, as well as assisting with some editing and other office work. Welcome on board, Chelsey! :)

So, to officially introduce ourselves... here are the "faces" of Erin Vossler Photography!

me :)

and Chelsey! :)

Doria and Mike, 10.24.09

2009-12-29T09:36:00.001-08:00

Mike and Doria had such a fun, beautiful fall wedding! Their wedding party had more children in it than any wedding I've photographed so far, and you would have never known--they were all so well-behaved! Doria and Mike chose a lot of great little details for their wedding day, including some very special ways to remember Doria's mom who passed away from breast cancer. It was a wonderful wedding, and I'm very thankful I was able to document the day for them!

The ring bearer's pillows were made from Doria's mom's wedding dress...

And Doria wore her mom's wedding ring on her wedding day.

Rachel and Cody, 10.17.09

2009-12-29T09:35:00.002-08:00

Rachel and Cody had one of the most elegant, classy weddings I've had the pleasure of photographing. The details were amazing too... from the gorgeous flowers, to the awesome classic cars that Rachel's grandfather restored himself, Cody and Rachel's wedding was stunning! The scenery definitely contributed as well--the couple are from Spearfish and were married there on a beautiful, warm October afternoon. I'm very honored they chose me to document their day!

Rachel and her niece, Aspen, the flower girl. What a little cutie!

Love it! :)

I am IN LOVE with this photo! It is definitely my favorite of the day!

Rachel's flowers were so beautiful!

Inside one of Rachel's grandfather's cars--it's baby pink!

Not only was there wedding cake to enjoy, but an entire table FULL of gourmet cheesecakes, in every flavor imaginable! And the most amazing part is that Rachel's mom and her aunt made every. single. one. Choosing one piece was extremely difficult!

Danielle and Joel, 09.05.09 | Aberdeen, South Dakota Wedding Photographer

2009-12-29T09:35:00.001-08:00

Another gorgeous couple, another gorgeous wedding! You might recognize Joel and Danielle from their engagement session last fall at McCrory Gardens. I didn't think anything could top the pretty colors and great shots we got during their engagement session--but I was definitely wrong! Joel and Danielle were married on a perfect September day in Aberdeen, and I had so much fun documenting their big day!

This is easily one of my most favorite groomsman shots ever! LOVE the glasses!

Danielle has crazy-beautiful eyes!

Danielle and Joel let me steal them away from the reception for a few sunset photos!

Mary and Randy, 08.29.09

2009-11-11T21:24:00.000-08:00

Mary and Randy had, by far, one of the most memorable weddings I've ever photographed! The entire day was awesome... Mary put so much thought into every little detail, and it really made their day even more special and unique. Their wedding party was a complete BLAST--which is to be expected, because Randy and Mary might be the most outgoing bride & groom I've had the pleasure of working with! From the party bus, to the neighborhood slip & slide (just wait--you'll see a photo!), to the wedding party's entrance at the reception--there was definitely never a dull moment!

A sweet, emotional moment between Mary and her mom...

I love how Mary's smile lights up her whole face!

One of my favorites of the day!

How great is Mary's mom's reaction to seeing her walk down the aisle??

Mary was SO excited and happy throughout the whole ceremony. :)

Some details...

The super-cute bags for the candy buffet at the reception!

I'm so glad I caught this moment! Randy and Mary were both talking with friends, when they turned around, saw each other, and then flashed their new wedding rings to one another. CUTE!

The slip & slide! I'm pretty sure I won't ever again get to witness a bridesmaid and groomsman, in their bridesmaid dress and tux, tackle a slip & slide. I told you--this was a crazy fun wedding party!

The best man's speech included a song he wrote and sang about Mary and Randy. Awesome!

Thank you again, Randy and Mary, for letting me be a part of your amazing wedding day!

Meghan and Brett, 08.22.09 | Brookings, South Dakota Wedding Photographer

2009-11-04T19:00:00.000-08:00

This couple is so incredibly in love, and it was obvious to everyone around them on their wedding day! Meghan and Brett had perfect weather on their big day, and everything about the day was beautiful to witness. I LOVED their colors, they aren't typical for a "summer" wedding but as you can see they were gorgeous and totally worked!

LOVE Meghan's reaction to seeing Brett for the first time!

Meghan is a knockout!

And Brett's not too bad either. ;) He has such a fun personality, and his facial expressions cracked me up the whole day!

The wedding party, showing a little leg (even the guys!) on Main Street!

Thanks again Meghan & Brett! Enjoy your Jamaican honeymoon!

I'm back!

2009-10-01T06:39:00.001-07:00

Our wedding has come and gone, and it was AMAZING! I think I told this to all of my brides this summer, but planning my own wedding definitely made me appreciate all of the work that goes into every wedding, not to mention all of the unique, little details that every bride adds to her wedding to make it special. I've always loved weddings, and photographing them, but I have a newfound respect and admiration for all of my brides & grooms after experiencing it firsthand myself!

An amazing friend of mine, Megan, was our wedding photographer and I am in awe of the photos she has showed me so far. Because we are friends she gave us a handful of her favorite shots as a sneak peek just days after the wedding--I am in love with them, and can't wait to see the rest!

Thank you to all of my amazing clients for being so patient with me while I took time off for our wedding. I appreciate all of you! We are waiting until February or March to go on our honeymoon (we want to wait until it is really cold and miserable in South Dakota, so that Jamaica is even more amazing!) so I am officially back in the office and will be updating the blog like crazy in the next couple of weeks! I've got weddings to share and portrait sessions as well, so be sure to check back often!

And finally... big, exciting changes will be happening in January! My business name will be changing to Erin Vossler Photography (my new married name!) and my website will be getting a facelift. I also hope to have a brand-new, fresh looking blog ready to be launched in January, as well as an overall new look for my logo & branding. I can't wait to show it to everyone!

With that, I'm getting back to work. :) Thanks again to all of my amazing clients!

Erin Vossler :)

Vacation

2009-09-14T20:03:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to let everyone know that I'll be starting my vacation tomorrow, September 15th to finish up last minute details before I get married on September 25th! I will be back September 28th and will return phone calls and emails as soon as I get back and into the groove again. :)

Thanks to all of my clients for being understanding... I'll be back soon (as a Mrs.!). :)

Erin

Megan and Chris, 07.25.09 | Brookings, South Dakota Wedding Photographer

2009-08-21T13:18:00.000-07:00

This was such a fun wedding, not to mention gorgeous, down to every last detail (especially Megan's pink shoes--LOVED them!)

Megan and Chris are a great couple, and I loved being there to document their wedding day. Congratulations again you two!

I called this groomsman Justin Timberlake all day... the rememblance is insane!

and one more shot of Justin, with the bride! :)

Taite, 7 days (and big brother Tucker, too!)

2009-08-18T12:12:00.000-07:00

Little Taite came for photos when he was just 7 days old, and he was the perfect subject! He slept nearly the whole time and is absolutely adorable. :) Proud big brother Tucker took some pictures with baby Taite too, and it is so easy to tell that Tucker is already a great big brother!

Kanin, 9 months

2009-08-18T12:04:00.000-07:00

How cute and adorable is this little guy?? And full of smiles too! :)

Angie, Mark & family | Arlington, Brookings South Dakota Family Child Photographer

2009-08-12T22:17:00.000-07:00

Angie and Mark are old friends of mine, so I had extra fun taking pictures of them and their three oh-so-cute kids!

Doria and Mike, Engaged! | Brookings, Arlington South Dakota Wedding Engagement Photographer

2009-08-10T11:08:00.001-07:00

I'm pretty sure I start every engagement session post like this, but: I had so much fun with Doria and Mike! Within the first few minutes of our session, I felt like I had known them forever and we just "clicked." :)

The night was pretty perfect for photos, other than the mosquitoes & other bugs, and the few moments of sprinkles. Doria and Mike roughed it though, and we got some great shots (and TONS of great sunflare!).

Thanks for a fun session, Mike and Doria. I can't wait for your fall wedding!

Renae and Steve, Engaged! | Minnesota, South Dakota Wedding Engagement Photographer

2009-08-04T09:46:00.000-07:00

I met up with Renae and Steve in Mankato, Minnesota for their engagement session and had SO much fun! Renae and Steve are a great couple, and it was a lot of fun to shoot in a totally new city. Mankato had so many great spots for photos, and we finished up the session on the Minnesota State University campus where Renae and Steve went to school, met, and fell in love. :)

Thanks again Steve & Renae... I'm really looking forward to your winter wedding!

introducing Boudoir by Life in Picture Photography | Brookings Arlington South Dakota Boudoir Wedding Photography

2009-07-27T05:53:00.000-07:00

I am excited to announce the newest sessions by Life in Picture Photography, Boudoir!

Boudoir sessions are a really amazing experience, and I honestly think that every woman should do at least one boudoir session in her life. They are perfect for brides-to-be and also women who are already married who want to give their husbands or husbands-to-be a unique gift. All boudoir sessions are done in the comfort of your own home, include multiple outfit changes, and a 10x10 custom-designed album.

As an added bonus, all past and present brides of Life in Picture Photography will receive 50% off their boudoir session!

I am now booking boudoir sessions. Contact me at erin@lifeinpicturephotography.com or 605.641.9664 to schedule yours!

"Last Days of Summer" Mini Sessions! | Brookings, Arlington South Dakota children's photography

2009-07-22T20:43:00.000-07:00