Welcome to the world little August

If you follow my blog, this family should look very familiar to you.  From their engagement session , their wedding, their maternity session and now as we welcome their sweet little son August into the world,  I am so thrilled and honored to be invited into their lives to share and document these milestones.  Being a new mother made taking newborn photos even more special to me.  I was able to relive and feel their joy on a whole new level.  Seeing the tremendous love they have for their sweet son was so refreshing.  I caught myself tearing up a few times as so many memories of my own son's first days came rushing back to me.   I wanted to tell them over and over to savor every second.  Somehow becoming a parent seems to speed up time.  But I also promised them what everyone has told them, with each new day it gets better and better.  <3fields_newborn_1193fields_newborn_1194fields_newborn_1196fields_newborn_1195fields_newborn_1198fields_newborn_1197fields_newborn_1199fields_newborn_1200fields_newborn_1201fields_newborn_1202fields_newborn_1203fields_newborn_1191fields_newborn_1204fields_newborn_1205

Abby and Jonathan's Ault Park Wedding

 I had the pleasure of spending the day with Abby and Jonathan for their Ault Park wedding.  The dramatic clouds were a gorgeous back drop to their laid back day.  Seeing Abby walk down the steps at the park with her Dad was so dramatic and sweet.   The couple laughed and joked throughout the day, it was nice to be surrounded by such fun people.  I started the day at Abby's mother's home where the view was spectacular.aultparkwedding_1102aultparkwedding_1174aultparkwedding_1106aultparkwedding_1104aultparkwedding_1107aultparkwedding_1108aultparkwedding_1110aultparkwedding_1111aultparkwedding_1112aultparkwedding_1170aultparkwedding_1173aultparkwedding_1172aultparkwedding_1176aultparkwedding_1119aultparkwedding_1120aultparkwedding_1122aultparkwedding_1121aultparkwedding_1123aultparkwedding_1125aultparkwedding_1124aultparkwedding_1100aultparkwedding_1128aultparkwedding_1186aultparkwedding_1189aultparkwedding_1131aultparkwedding_1132aultparkwedding_1133 aultparkwedding_1134aultparkwedding_1137aultparkwedding_1139aultparkwedding_1135aultparkwedding_1136aultparkwedding_1180aultparkwedding_1141aultparkwedding_1142aultparkwedding_1187aultparkwedding_1148aultparkwedding_1152aultparkwedding_1150aultparkwedding_1165aultparkwedding_1162I was really excited to get a chance to shoot a few Impossible Project polaroid images throughout the day.aultparkwedding_1167aultparkwedding_1168aultparkwedding_1169

The Fields at the Fair

You remember Kendal and Joe's amazing wedding at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park, right?  Well, when the most colorful and fun family I know wants to do a maternity session, of course we have to come up with something awesome.  Kendal and I had the idea of doing some kind of photos at a carnival over a year ago.  When she contacted me about setting up a maternity session we both knew it was time.  We met at the Dearborn County fairgrounds for this super fun session.  I am always grateful for the time I get to spend catching up with this family.  I am excited to watch them grow.

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Courtney And Sam's Josephina Center Wedding

Last week I had the pleasure of traveling about 40 minutes into Kentucky to photograph Courtney and Sam's beautiful wedding at the Josephine Center.  It was a hot day, but that didn't stop us from having a blast.  Courtney blew my mind when she walked out in her off the rack dress that fit her like a glove.  Nothing inspires me more than love, and these two shared it freely with each other and everyone at their wedding.  I am grateful for the opportunity to spend such a special day with these beautiful people.  Thank you Courtney and Sam.

Also, thank you Dana Rogers for being an amazing second shooter for the day. Josephina wedding_1001Josephina wedding_1006 Josephina wedding_1007 Josephina wedding_1008 Josephina wedding_1009 Josephina wedding_1010 Josephina wedding_1011 Josephina wedding_1012 Josephina wedding_1013 Josephina wedding_1014Josephina wedding_1016 Josephina wedding_1017 Josephina wedding_1018 Josephina wedding_1019 Josephina wedding_1020 Josephina wedding_1021 Josephina wedding_1022 Josephina wedding_1023 Josephina wedding_1024 Josephina wedding_1025 Josephina wedding_1026 Josephina wedding_1027Josephina wedding_1030 Josephina wedding_1031Josephina wedding_1004Josephina wedding_1034 Josephina wedding_1035Josephina wedding_1054Josephina wedding_1037 Josephina wedding_1038 Josephina wedding_1039 Josephina wedding_1040Josephina wedding_1005Josephina wedding_1041 Josephina wedding_1042 Josephina wedding_1043 Josephina wedding_1044Josephina wedding_1048 Josephina wedding_1052Josephina wedding_1049 Josephina wedding_1050 Josephina wedding_1051

Courtney and Sam Mt. Airy Forest Engagement

Back when I was huge and pregnant I got to spend some time in Mt. Airy Forest with these two love birds.  Autumn's beautiful colors provided the perfect backdrop for their engagement photos.  I am  thrilled that tomorrow I get a chance to hang out with them again at their wedding!

See you very soon, Courtney and Sam.  Thank you so much for choosing me to document your day. MtAiryForestengagement_0990MtAiryForestengagement_0991MtAiryForestengagement_0992MtAiryForestengagement_0993MtAiryForestengagement_0994MtAiryForestengagement_0995MtAiryForestengagement_0996MtAiryForestengagement_0997MtAiryForestengagement_0998MtAiryForestengagement_0999MtAiryForestengagement_1000C

Josh and Elizabeth Urban Artifact Northside

This past weekend I got a chance to meet up with an old friend and his new wife to photograph their wedding reception.  Elizabeth and Josh were married in Mexico, they planned a celebration at Urban Artifact.  Since most of their wedding photos were taken on the beach, we decided it would be cool to run around Northside to capture something a little different.  I had such a good time.  It had been a long time since I had a chance to do an urban shoot like this.  This is only my second event of the year after having the baby, so pardon me while I post a ton of my favorites...inspiration was running wild for me this day. urbanartifactwedding_northside_0971urbanartifactwedding_northside_0965urbanartifactwedding_northside_0966urbanartifactwedding_northside_0989urbanartifactwedding_northside_0968urbanartifactwedding_northside_0969urbanartifactwedding_northside_0973urbanartifactwedding_northside_0974urbanartifactwedding_northside_0975urbanartifactwedding_northside_0972urbanartifactwedding_northside_0978urbanartifactwedding_northside_0964urbanartifactwedding_northside_0986urbanartifactwedding_northside_0979urbanartifactwedding_northside_0980urbanartifactwedding_northside_0982urbanartifactwedding_northside_0983urbanartifactwedding_northside_0988urbanartifactwedding_northside_0984urbanartifactwedding_northside_0985

Kyle and Jimmy The Inn at Oneonta

Kyle and Jimmy had a beautiful wedding at one of my favorite venues. The Inn at Oneonta is a beautiful property along the Ohio River.  The couple wanted a relaxed, easy going wedding where they could enjoy time with their family and friends.  From Kyle's bright blue shoes to the dinosaur cake topper, every single detail was a true representation of their fun loving personalities.  It was my pleasure to spend the day with these two.View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/kyle-and-jimmy-10-17-15

A Mother's Love

I heard she was a badass woman,  I got to see she is a badass mama.

I watched Grace carry her sweet girl Clementine up a hill on her back, without a complaint,  just to be able to share a waterfall with her.   She took off her shoes,  so she could let the mud slip between her toes.  She asked her to be quiet so that they can hear nature.  She showed her how the natives caught water with their hands.  She gives her the confidence to explore without fear and the guidance to show her the way.  She is the kind of mother I aspire to be.

It’s my first year being a mother.  I have noticed in myself the strong urge to connect with other mothers, and to see how they interact with their little ones.  It warms my heart, and I learn so much from the experience.  I didn’t quite grasp the underlying bond I would have with other mothers, there is something so raw about the shared experience we have., whether this is acknowledged or not.  There is no denying the immense love we have for our children and the sacrifices we make everyday to ensure they feel secure and happy.

I also quickly noticed there are a lot of photos of my son his dad, but not very many with me.  If there are photos of us, I have a ponytail, no makeup, and look tired.  Like most mothers, I am the one with the camera, I want to remember every moment.  Inspired by my shoot with Grace and one I did with my friend Emily awhile back I decided to put together a special Mother’s Love package.  It is a 2 hour photoshoot with you and your kids doing something you love or at a location that is meaningful.  Maybe, you just want to get dressed up and feel great, I don't blame you one bit.  You deserve it.   Whatever you choose, I want to document it for you.

In honor of my very first Mother's Day, I am offering $100 off these special sessions the entire month of May. What a great last minute Mother's Day gift, huh?   Feel free to email me for more info nikita@nikitagross.com

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Nikki and Dustin's Wedding

Nikki and Dustin's wedding, held on their family's property was one of my favorite.  It was personal, relaxed, full of creativity and love. Every detail was thought of.   I hadn't met the couple before their wedding day, but as soon as I walked into the beautiful bed and breakfast where Nikki was getting ready I felt like I was hanging out with an old friend.  Bikes play a very important role in their relationship, it is something they enjoy together.  Dustin actually proposed to Nikki at a women's bike convention, on stage in front of hundreds of people. How sweet!   Another really special part of the day was the location.  Dustin and his family spent many months building bridges through the woods that led to a romantic spot for the ceremony.  They built seating in the hill for all of their guests.  It was unbelievable.  It's hard to call what I do work when I get to be in nature surrounded by such beautiful people, who are celebrating love.  Thank you Nikki and Dustin.View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15 View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15 View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15View More: http://nikitagrossphotography.pass.us/nikki-and-dustin-9-26-15