Eau Claire Photographer • kate bentley

moving forward.

2010-02-25T19:13:00.002-06:00

Time to make some lovely and exciting changes around here. Please join me on the new blog. Remember to update your readers as well!

In addition to the new blog, my new website can be found here.

{ personal post } more adventures of sammo.

2010-02-23T14:22:00.003-06:00

What if a two year old was given the option to pick out her own outfit and dictate her hairstyle for the day? Well, I'm pretty sure it would look something quite like the following...

It all starts out innocent enough. Samantha is obsessed with all things "spoooooky" lately and decided she wanted to wear her Bubby's old Halloween shirt today. Fair enough. We had no plans other than working on some projects around the house so the chances of raising eyebrows by letting your daughter wear a trick or treat shirt in February were slim.

She then asked me to put some clippies in to keep the hair out of her eyes that I'm still refusing to cut or trim. Ah well, I'm sure she'll cut her own hair soon enough as this seems to be about the age that those tragedies occur, no matter how hard one stashes every single pair of scissors they own in the deepest, darkest corners of their junk drawer.

aaaaaaaaaand things went downhill from there. Two clippies led to the entire sheet of clippies and me stopping my design work to load a card in the camera while laughing hysterically.

Scott came home from work to find the girls and I crammed into my office and cracking up over both the massive amount of clippies and Samantha referring to her new hairstyle as "DEEEEEELISHIOUS!"

swoonage.

{ personal post } awake.

2010-02-18T16:11:00.002-06:00

There is something so amazing about our schedule now that my hubster is on days. Scott gets to see the girls when they are awake and well, that's pretty awesome. Just ask them.

And I have to share what Samantha likes to do in my office when I'm working. She's supposed to be downstairs playing with daddy while I finish up some layouts in peace. Well, Samantha happens to think that idea is crap. So she sneaks back upstairs alot. On her way to my little nook, she usually tip toes into Stephen's room to markerjack his art case and looks for things that are not paper in here to color on. Today, she skipped the markers and chose stickers as her medium. Who knows where the rest of the stickers from the sheet are hidden...

{ sleep }

2010-02-02T13:48:00.003-06:00

“There will be sleeping enough in the grave” : Benjamin Franklin

These are words Vivian lives by. While I do enjoy my industrial strength coffee in the mornings, I do wish she would enjoy sleep just a wee bit more.

{ personal post } the boy.

2010-01-30T13:53:00.002-06:00

So, we have news in our house. News I am struggling to come to terms with. No, nothing bad. Just the fact that my child is even old enough to lose his first tooth. *sigh* And the fact that the next door neighbor of said missing tooth is also wiggly is unnerving. My little man is no longer little. When exactly did that happen? Stephen also informed me that the tooth fairy that would be coming to our house that evening wouldn't bring such an ordinary thing as money, but a lego set instead. My, how the world changes.

{ ch-ch-ch-changes? } bigger is better.

2010-01-26T17:56:00.001-06:00

Duh!

..and there's more changes on the way in the coming weeks. Yep.

{ personal post } The girls.

2010-01-23T22:39:00.003-06:00

While the hubster is at work and the boy is at school, the girls have a pajama party.

{ Eau Claire, WI } Frosty.

2010-01-22T13:30:00.005-06:00

Mmmmm, I love a good frosting! Thankfully, the hubster was able to drop what he was doing at work to come and watch the kiddos allowing me to head out with my camera. My love affair with my 50mm continues. I leave the house with a bag of lenses and can't bring myself to change to anything else.

{ personal post } such a tease.

2010-01-19T19:32:00.002-06:00

More to come tomorrow, but until then, proof that Samantha has been practicing her pout.

{ personal post } move[d]

2010-01-10T22:21:00.003-06:00

So, we're in Eau Claire and beginning to get settled. Anything still in boxes has been hidden away in the basement so I can ignore it until further notice or we move again. har.

With all of this going on, my poor camera was abandoned in its bag since the holiday. I'd neglected the one thing that has always pulled me through dark or unsure times.

So today my darling husband set me free and told me to go forth and capture. And I did. I can't wait to start picking up some clients up here as I'm salivating at the thought of some of these places in the spring! *swoon*

I started off at home. My little Samantha is quite the artist lately and I'm thinking one of these will wind up as a gallery wrapped canvas in her room:

My Lola enjoying some couch time.

And my adventure:

And it's no fun out wandering about without trying to capture myself in a window somewhere...

And all of this gave me some ideas for a new project for this year, but I need to do some real thinking before I commit to it.

All in all, it was nice to have my little companion in my hands again while wandering around our new digs.

{ personal post } 2009 : Looking Back

2010-01-06T13:07:00.002-06:00

Dusting this baby off. Honestly I had good reason for ignoring my poor little blog. We moved and most of my office/camera gear is still packed away. But that's a whole other post regarding my resolutions and hopes for this coming year so stay tuned!

In the meantime, how about some of my favorite images from the past year? Thank you oh so much to my clients who made 2009 so memorable and successful for me. I can't wait to see what 2010 holds!

Yep, 2009 was full of love. And I love that. <3

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } Nature's Masterpiece.

2009-12-21T22:35:00.002-06:00

"The family is one of nature's masterpieces."
- George Santayana

I really do love family sessions. And I love when people I grew up with come to me for their family portraits. And I totally had to bust out the "I knew you girls when you were babies" line on the twins! Classic!

I hope you guys enjoy!

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } NOM.

2009-12-14T11:21:00.001-06:00

I couldn't resist. Absolutely my favorite one from the session.

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } Beautiful Boy.

2009-12-13T20:32:00.002-06:00

Close your eyes,
Have no fear,
The monsters gone,
He's on the run and your daddy's here,
Beautiful,
Beautiful, beautiful,
Beautiful Boy.

John Lennon

Bethany and I went to high school together. We were on cheerleading together and shared in the misery that was our athletic teams. It was bad. Like, really bad. Bad enough that we're still laughing about it 10 years later.

So long story short, here she is with a hubster and a gorgeous little man named Ian. Ian has eyes that are set to "Melt Hearts". He does. Honestly. He is such a happy man and is loved so much by his parents. Who could ask for anything above that?

So I'll stop rambling....and get on with the show.

Feeeeeeeeeeeeeeet!

{ personal post } holiday torture.

2009-12-12T21:42:00.003-06:00

Taking photos of my own kids for our holiday card is pretty darn impossible. They know all my best tricks by now and no amount of bribery can coerce them into behaving.

However, sometimes, those are the most memorable photos and the ones that get printed for my wall.

Out of all of them, Vivian was the most pleasant but that's only because she's unable to run away. Yet.

{ Rockford, IL Newborn Photographer } Session Wrap.

2009-12-03T22:21:00.002-06:00

Now that the gallery is complete, a few more favs. <3

{ Rockford, IL Newborn Photographer } The tiniest thing.

2009-11-22T21:37:00.003-06:00

"It was the tiniest thing I ever decided to put my whole life into."

- Terri Guillemets

I have no words to express just how much in love I am with this little man. Siara, you are one lucky mama and this little boy is such a blessing. I wish you both health and happiness, and I hope I get to continue to photograph him as he grows.

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } Aiden's Wrap Up.

2009-11-19T23:34:00.002-06:00

Now that the gallery is complete, a few more favs. <3

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } Clements Family Wrap.

2009-11-18T08:20:00.002-06:00

Now that the gallery is complete, I thought I'd share a few more personal favorites of this gorgeous family!

{ Rockford, IL Newborn Photographer } The Beginning.

2009-11-15T16:40:00.005-06:00

"A new baby is like the beginning of all things - wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities."

- Eda J Leshan

I love getting the call from a maternity client when they are in labor and that their little babelette will be making his or her entrance into the world shortly. Siara's little babe is here and is everything one could hope for in a little man. He's laid back. He's healthy. He's content with observing his new family that adores him.

Hospital photos done by the hospital are very cold in nature, your baby is usually screaming in them, and it sometimes involves a pastel polka dot background. I know. I have a set from my first born that I don't think I've looked at since I brought him home. And that is why I offer to come up to the hospital to capture your sweet little bundles during their first day and while they're meeting their loved ones who are going to help guide them along life's path.

Thank you so much, Siara, for having me up today. Congratulations to you and your family on such a lovely addition. I hope you enjoy your sneak peek!

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } With one glance.

2009-11-14T11:50:00.002-06:00

“No one knows how it is that with one glance a boy can break through into a girl's heart.”

- Napoleon Bonaparte

And oh lawd, Aiden is capable of just that.

She never quite leaves her children at home, even when she doesn't take them along. { Personal Posting }

2009-11-11T10:27:00.004-06:00

She never quite leaves her children at home, even when she doesn't take them along.

- Margaret Culkin Banning

So once again I simply must post some new photos of my own babes as it seems they never stop growing up. Vivian is now six months old. How in the world did that happen? She's now beginning to sit up on her own and reaching for me when I am near. I can't get over just how much she looks like her sister at this age, but then remember that she is her own babette as far as personality is concerned. She is my easy going child and to be honest that relieves me after two very strong willed individuals before her. I'm not saying that Miss V is not opinionated. I'm merely saying that she will be my quiet storm.

This past week, I took Stephen out hiking at Rock Cut. After reassuring him that no bears resided in the woods, we were able to get down to business.

His range of faces never cease to crack me up beyond belief.

And since my Sammo was sick the week before, she was in no mood for photos. Ah well. She's usually the subject of my family updates anyway since she truly is the boss around here.

Hope everyone is having a lovely week so far. Since it is nearing the middle of the month, we're starting to talk about what we're thankful for around here. Stephen is adamant that he is only thankful for Vivian as his other sister has started to pick fights with him. Samantha is thankful for her brother as without him, she would have a gaping hole in her heart. Vivian is thankful for all of us. And me? Well I'm thankful for everything. Every last moment with my family, my husband who puts up with my insane hours {and I'll be even more thankful when we don't live 4 hours away from him} and thankful for a successful year in business doing something that I hold so dear to my heart.

And you, what are you thankful for? Show some love. Stop lurking. Leave a comment. I'm thankful for those as well. ;]

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } Other things may change us, but we start and end with family."

2009-11-09T00:25:00.003-06:00

“Other things may change us, but we start and end with family.”

- Anthony Brandt

I've known the Clements family for quite awhile now. Barb and my mom are BFF's and met each other in a networking group years ago. Barb and her husband own Al's Carpet in Machesney Park and their two children, Erica and Jared work with them. Locally owned, family businesses are my fav. I've trusted them with flooring, tile, rugs + design advice for my home and I was beyond honored that they would trust me in capturing family photos in celebration of Barb + Al's anniversary. We dropped it like it was hot out at Rock Cut today and I can't wait to go through the rest of the session. Jared even brought his little dudes with for some photo shenanigans. My camera + rambunctious little boys = FUUUUUUUUUUUN stuff for sure!

I hope you enjoy your sneak peek you guys!

{ Rockford, IL Event Photographer } Music is an outburst of the soul.

2009-11-08T23:46:00.003-06:00

“Music is an outburst of the soul.”

- Frederick Delius

On Saturday evening, I had the pleasure of photographing the Rockford Symphony Orchestra's fundraiser event, the Black Magic Ball. An evening at Forest Hills Country Club full of music, food, laughter and raising money for the RSO so that future generations can continue to appreciate the beautiful music that fills the Coronado performance after performance.

Without further ramblings, I'll let the images speak for themselves.

Thank you again to Gayle for this wonderful opportunity!

Miss Emily Bear with her grandmother

Miss Bear absolutely stunned the room with her performance before dinner.

A purse tree is always a GREAT idea. Really.

After dinner, the Moonlight Jazz Orchestra packed the dance floor in 30 seconds flat!

The dancing continued into the night and I was so happy to have been able to capture such an event. The energy in the room was truly amazing which lead to an extremely successful event.

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } Session Wrap.

2009-11-06T12:51:00.003-06:00

Now that the gallery is complete, a few more of my absolute favorites. <3

The Payback.

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } In my heart of hearts.

2009-11-02T19:21:00.004-06:00

Family sessions are always a very warming thing, no matter the chilly winds. Thank you, Denise and Bill for reminding me just how much I love my job. Your charming children were so much fun and I love taking photos of families who are so tightly knit.

I hope you enjoy your sneak peek with some of my favorite images from this afternoon's session!

Oh, and I must add, it warms my heart even more when a family involves me in a comical setup. Ha!

/family photo shenanigans win!

{ Rockford, IL Maternity Photographer } Session Wrap

2009-10-28T23:43:00.000-05:00

A few more favs now that the gallery is complete!

happy { weekend before } halloween.

2009-10-25T16:37:00.002-05:00

Since the weather in IL tends to be pretty unpredictable around Halloween, I took full advantage of the gorgeous weather this afternoon and snapped some photos of the kids in their Trick-or-Treating gear. Stephen rocking the Batman suit, Samantha roaring her way to cutest toddler evah and Viv barely tolerating the lobstah costume that her sister wore for her first Halloween as well.

Note: I'm thinking of doing outdoor Halloween snapshots this year if there is enough interest. A handful of shots, burned to disk for you to print where you wish for $20. If interested, email me and I'll decide by Thursday if there was enough interest to make this work. This would be at one location, an hour or two before ToT'ing, and would last no more that 10-15 minutes per family.

and yep, Samantha made her sad face when I told her it was time to get out of the grass and go inside. Scott and her future husband are in serious trouble. Who could ever say no to that super pout lip?

{ Rockford, IL Maternity Photographer } I got you, babe.

2009-10-24T20:52:00.000-05:00

I can never adequately express just how much I love maternity sessions. A gorgeous, glowing, soon-to-be mama + fall colors + gorgeous weather = booyah magic photos. Mama, I can't wait to meet your little man and best of luck to you!!

See? Gorgeous I tell you!

And a special thank you to my big brother for hauling my gear, carrying Sierra's wardrobe and for providing comic relief. I need to bring you along to all of my sessions me thinks.

heads up local people.

2009-10-23T13:35:00.000-05:00

I will be donating a gift certificate good for one whole lotta love session to the benefit for Amanda Reed at Park Lanes this Saturday, October 24th. Proceeds from the event will be donated to local nonviolence agencies such as Working Against Violent Environments {WAVE} + Children’s Safe Harbor. Bowling. Raffles. Silent auction items. Donating to a great cause in memory of Amanda Reed. For more information, contact Park Lanes at 815-877-6051 or Brad Reed at 815-670-9215.

holiday cards are coming...

2009-10-20T23:31:00.000-05:00

Keep checking the stationary gallery on my website for more, kiddos! Hit me up for pricing at ekedesignstudio {at} aol {dot} com! There's only so many horse drawn carriage cards one can send over the years. There's a limit. Seriously.

{and this is not against anyone who happens to have those cards in their desk drawer. I'm simply suggesting to put some extra love in your holiday greetings this year!}

sammo is two. just ask her attitude.

2009-10-11T22:40:00.000-05:00

Well, in a few hours, it will officially be Samantha's birthday. I love her to bits and I can't help but to get more than a little emotional over her turning another year older. I know we all say that we love our kids equally, but I tend to think I love my kids differently. I don't love anyone any less, but my love is definitely different for each of them, ya dig?

For Samantha, it's the kind of love when you look down at your moody toddler that's telling you what for and suddenly see yourself. It's the kind of love your parents warned you about when you were acting up and they secretly wished to whomever grants those wishes that you would have a child just like you some day. She has a way of pushing me to my limit and then reeling me right back by saying something off the cuff and from her heart. She's my loving child. My caretaker. The way she reaches out to her brother and her baby sister. The way she is quick to say "bless you, bebe" when someone sneezes. The way she always grabs a book and climbs the nearest lap demanding to be read to. My darling daughter, happy second birthday.

"vacation at daddy's house."

2009-10-08T13:36:00.000-05:00

Many of you that know me are aware of the fact the my husband now lives 4 hours away. Monday through Friday my days are spent trying to keep up with three kids and a budding photography business in addition to my full time sign business gig. Things are crazy. Good thing I am a master task juggler. Most of the time. This past weekend, the kids and I went up to visit him for once instead of him always driving here. Saturday we trekked up to MOA and awesomeness ensued. Proof is in the photos.

booyah.

the biggest snapping turtle evah.

Sammo in awe of the biggest snapping turtle evah.

The tunnels in the underground aquarium were filled with Stephen yelling "MOM, TAKE A PICTURE OF THAAAAAAAAAAT!" And so I did.

After we did the aquarium thang, we hit the amusement park so Stephen and Scott could ride unlimited rides while I shopped with the girls.

joyful.

My little ghost hunter.

Uncle Joe, what would a blogpost of photos with my kids be without Samantha's emo toddler routine? I wonder who she gets her moodiness from. Hmmmmm....

Miss V has that emo gene too apparently.

Stephen looooooooved the bumper cars. Who knew a 5 year old would love crashing things.

bliss.

and the hubster took Stephen on this. I was in shock. Stephen ended up looooooooooving it though and well, that's pretty much all that matters.

fin.

"A boy's story..." : session wrap-up.

2009-09-30T08:22:00.000-05:00

A few more favorites now that the gallery is complete! Thanks again Jess + Paul. Your little man is just amazing!

"A boy's story is the best that is ever told." : Charles Dickens

2009-09-27T21:08:00.002-05:00

Thank you so much Jess + Paul for inviting me out to capture your little man!

stop! autumn portrait time.

2009-09-26T15:05:00.002-05:00

The next few weeks are going to be ideal for fall family portraits! Plan ahead and book now while the weather here is still gorgeous for outdoor shooting. Contact me for availability and location ideas.

Holiday cards are coming as well. I'll post an update soon!

In the meantime, here is some photocandy to motivate you!

angie + adam : wedding wrap up.

2009-09-18T08:27:00.002-05:00

Angie, your gallery is complete! Just had to share a few more personal favs from your special day. Thank you so much again!

"along came a princess v2.0" [newborn session wrap-up]

2009-09-09T21:43:00.002-05:00

A few more favs now that the gallery is complete. Thanks again, Tiff. I seriously luvre your kidlets!

"and along came a princess." [me]

2009-09-08T22:53:00.002-05:00

Oh, where do I even start this post? Tiffany and I have known each other forever. Like we had sleepovers all the time back in the day and she'd bring over her NKOTB pillow and we'd sit up all night calling the radio station demanding that they play our random requests because it was three in the morning and what else are you supposed to do at that time?

Tiffany has two gorgeous little boys. That say funny things. And do boyish sorts of things.

Tiffany has an amazing husband that loves her like she deserves.

And now she has her princess. Perfection.

"can i see it now?" [andrew]

2009-09-08T21:57:00.004-05:00

What a beautiful day for Andrew's first day of preschool. This little man always knows just how to crack me up with his posing and asking to see my camera after snapping a shot. I'm so happy his lovely mama asked me along to capture this milestone for them. I understand completely about wanting to actually be in the photos for once rather than standing behind the camera for them. I hope you guys enjoy and I hope Andrew continues to be so excited about school!

And yes, I was humming Adam Sandler's "Back to School" while driving there. harhar!

"the smile on your face lets me know that you need me" - angie + adam

2009-09-07T09:33:00.005-05:00

We couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day for their wedding. Angie + Adam are beyond lovely. As prom dates years ago, they've come a long way. Even though their roads took them different directions at one point, they've found themselves along the same path again. Just one look at them and you truly understand what having years of history and friendship can do for a relationship. I wish them all the luck and happiness possible. Enjoy the road together!

and there was no shortage of cute kidlets at the wedding...

Music was provided by Flip Side DJ Service. Absolutely great I tell you!

Thank you again Angie + Adam for inviting me to capture your day!

angie+adam : pre-sneak peek.

2009-09-07T00:55:00.002-05:00

Full post tomorrow!

otw.

2009-09-04T22:15:00.002-05:00

Day one of the festivities and you can bet we were there to relax and enjoy some family time before my long work day tomorrow. We skipped most of the music since we'll be there tomorrow night to enjoy Barenaked Ladies, but we hit the food joints I love so much. Mmmmmm! I'm sure you can guess that the corn dogs and ice cream was a hit with the kiddos. Poor Viv. She'll have to wait until next year to enjoy a twist cone.

beautiful girls.

2009-09-03T22:33:00.002-05:00

Had to test out the new toy this afternoon, so that means tons of pictures of my own kidlets. Good lawd, I love my girls.

ron + lindsey : session wrap-up.

2009-09-03T10:05:00.003-05:00

I hate picking favorites and that is why I always have so many of them. Ah well, I'm sure most of you don't mind. ;]

And I love these last two. Proof that our boys make faces at us when we're not looking.

Thanks again you guys. You certainly made my job very easy and I can't wait to work together in the future!

for uncle joe.

2009-09-03T09:42:00.002-05:00

Since Uncle Joe gave me so much crap about posting Sammo's sad face picture from last week, here are a few more just for him. Have a great day at OTW today!

ron + lindsey.

2009-08-30T13:56:00.002-05:00

Thanks so much for help today guys. Early morning + chilly temps = suffering for the art. Hope you enjoy the sneak peek!

family session wrap-up.

2009-08-26T13:59:00.002-05:00

A few more of my favorites now that the gallery is complete. Thanks again, Dana!

"all I ever needed to know, I learned in kindergarten." [Robert Fulghum]

2009-08-25T15:29:00.002-05:00

It was a mixed bag of emotions for me today. Taking my dear boy to his first day of Kindergarten choked me up beyond belief. There he was. No longer the tiny babe that I carried home from the hospital by my lonesome only to face a path that neither of us were sure of. Here was my little man, sure of himself and ready to spread his wings without me. His joy was overwhelming and I loved watching him take in his new surroundings with great pride. I saved the tears for when we were in the van on our way to DQ for a treat, thankyouverymuch.

daddy's girl.

2009-08-25T10:02:00.002-05:00

Samantha keeps asking "did daddy go?" which is her version of "Where did my father go?". She misses you, babe.

"an ounce of blood is worth more than a pound of friendship." [spanish proverb]

2009-08-23T14:24:00.002-05:00

Family sessions are truly lovely. I adore getting to capture a family together on a lazy Sunday afternoon. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves.

my viv.

2009-08-21T23:06:00.002-05:00

Vivian in a swaddling blanket made by a good friend of mine. I call this "The Iron Swaddle". She is no match for it.

[If you'd like one of these fabulous blankets of your own, hit me up and I'll forward you along to my dear friend. Seriously, these are the best!]

good lawd, how i love this little girl.

session wrap-up: children + life

2009-08-11T18:59:00.002-05:00

"a daughter may outgrow your lap, but she will never outgrow your heart." -Author Unknown

2009-08-09T10:30:00.002-05:00

"while we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about." -Angela Schwindt

2009-08-08T20:55:00.002-05:00

Tracy and I grew up together and I just love her little girls to bits. They brought a little guest for photos as well. We had originally planned on photos outside, but with the muggy heavy weather I thought it might be best to enjoy some A/C instead. After attempting to keep up with this tribe in a studio setting, I'm hoping to catch a little cat nap on the couch tonight. I hope you enjoy your sneak peek, Tracy. I see so much of you and your mom in your little girls and you can tell just how much they look up to you and adore you!

bachelorette wrap-up.

2009-08-08T09:56:00.002-05:00

Girls, thank you so much again for letting me crash your little gathering. All of the images have been uploaded to the gallery for viewing. I hope you enjoy! I'll leave you with just a few more of my favorites!

girls just wanna have fun.

2009-08-03T22:23:00.004-05:00

Yes, yes they do. These girls are no exception. You could tell instantly that they are a close group of friends who couldn't be happier for Angie's upcoming nuptials. Angie, I wish you all the luck in the world for your marriage and so happy that I could be there to photograph your girls sending you off right. I had tears of laughter in my eyes throughout the night!

P.S. - I'm going to demand to see video of the Napoleon dance at your wedding. Fer reals.

i'm married to a thirty year old.

2009-07-28T12:33:00.002-05:00

Yep, that's right. Scott is officially three decades old. I've run the old man jokes into the ground despite everyone reminding me that I'm not far behind him. I have no clue what they're talking about. I'm 25. And always will be. End of story. We had his party this past Sunday. A cookout complete with Cake Lady Cake. If you're in the Rockford area and looking for the most delicious cake on the planet for your weddings, birthdays, or just because it's Tuesday and you think cake for dinner is a fabulous idea, contact me for her info. Mmmmm, cake.

The birthday ~~boy~~ old man

The creepiest party guest EVAH!

Samantha on the prowl for cake

Viv and her Aunt Julie

Samantha setting the party mood with her bubble blowing skillz

My brother Ryan and his wife Brie

My dad and Kimi

Viv and her Aunt Heather

downtown wrap-up.

2009-07-28T12:14:00.001-05:00

...and my absolute fav.

downtown rockford, smooth criminal style.

2009-07-26T15:34:00.003-05:00

Brian is always a willing subject to go out and scope new photo locations with me. I'm sure everyone driving around in downtown Rockford wondered what in the heck I was doing running around with a camera and someone dressed like Michael Jackson. Ah, love it. And yes, I'm sharing a ton because Brian's personality in front of the camera absolutely blows me away. Like, fer reals.

knit happens.

2009-07-22T10:29:00.002-05:00

Well, Vivian's hat for the upcoming winter is done. I loved this colorway and the way it knit up. It's called "katie" (gee, wonder why I just had to have it?) and dyed by Suggarbubbie. Since my little Peanutty was sleeping, Sammo got to model. Samantha's hat is on the needles next!

legoland adventure.

2009-07-18T21:09:00.003-05:00

Okay, so once you got past the cheesy, over-acting staff, Legoland was pretty darn fun. The kids loved it and secretly, so did we.

session wrap-up: little acorn.

2009-07-18T14:11:00.002-05:00

Heather, your little man's session is complete and uploaded. Here are a few more of my favs:

"Tall oaks from little acorns grow." -- David Everett

2009-07-16T22:50:00.003-05:00

Oh my. Aiden has changed so much in 3 months. As I scooped him up to move some things, I realized how much I miss my own son being that size. There's just something about a boy and his mother and the bond they share. You can just tell how at home he is in his mother's arms and just how loved this little (okay, not so little, but you get the picture) peanut is.

Heather, thank you so much for having me out again and I can't wait to see you guys again.

Watching little ones grow is probably my favorite part of what I do.

The look in these last two are my absolute favorite shots. Ladies, watch your hearts.

how does my garden grow?

2009-07-14T22:20:00.003-05:00

Like this:

i heart knitting.

2009-07-14T21:47:00.002-05:00

Seriously. I need to offer to knit for other kidlets or else my kids are going to be sporting completely knitted ensembles by fall.

cute baby alert.

2009-07-14T10:31:00.001-05:00

hotel boredom.

2009-07-11T11:40:00.002-05:00

While the girls and I waited for Scott to return from the station, we moved furniture around and stripped the beds of their comforters for entertainment.

vivian is too little to escape yet.

2009-07-07T22:20:00.003-05:00

I know this hat is rather boyish in color, but I couldn't resist testing it out on my babe. I'm in love with the colors and how it turned out.

And of course some of my little peanut minus the hat.

sammo models when i bribe her.

2009-07-07T20:00:00.003-05:00

Ah, fruit snacks. How you save me! Sammo modeling one of my latest woolie hats. I have another one on the needles already for Viv.

The look in this next one is *so* me. I was shocked when I pulled it up on my screen only to see myself in her expression. Daddy, you're in trouble with this one.

Rockford, IL Family Photographer / big brother's session wrap-up.

2009-06-30T22:27:00.002-05:00

Ding, pics are done! Here are some more of my favs! Thanks again you guys.

Rockford, IL Family Photographer / big brother.

2009-06-28T20:38:00.002-05:00

When my big brother asked me to capture his family, I accepted with great delight. I've only been hounding him for months to let me. Perhaps he was worried I'd have him parading around downtown in sparkly unmentionables...

On a serious note, I love my big brother. He's always been there for me and looked out for me even when I thought I didn't need him to. He threatened my boyfriends when they deserved it most and has always been a sounding wall for life's greatest dilemmas. His wife is also full of awesome and my brother truly is a lucky man. Together they made a kidlet that is an exact clone of Joe. Yeah, remember that whole "I hope you have kids just like you someday" curse? Totally true. Jacob's personality is just amazing and you can't help but crack up at that boy.

Here is your sneak peek, guys. I hope you enjoy!

my kidlets are hilarious.

2009-06-18T00:07:00.006-05:00

Taking photographs of my own children is quite near impossible. I'm serious. I thought it would be entertaining to post some of the outtakes from an attempted session with my own kidlets. I've learned that bribery is a must.

First off, Stephen is thrilled with the thought of picture taking and makes it clear in the image below.

Samantha proceeds to pick a winner as I begin snapping away.

She then demonstrates her embarrassment at being caught in the act.

This is followed by yelling at me before stomping off to collect golf balls.

I did manage to get some stuff that will make it to our year end book, but I couldn't pass up the laughs and silly things my kids do. Now for the good stuff.

grandkiddo session wrap-up.

2009-06-17T20:57:00.002-05:00

With so many adorable pictures of these gorgeous kidlets, it's hard to cram all of my favorites into only two blogposts...

summer at last.

2009-06-14T16:34:00.003-05:00

After a slight bump in the road with the rain yesterday, we rescheduled our session for today and couldn't have asked for nicer weather. 1 cute baby + 2 adorable kids = photo awesomeness.

home part ii.

2009-06-03T23:29:00.002-05:00

After editing the rest, I have a few more favs:

I heart my family.

2009-06-03T23:21:00.004-05:00

*love love love*

/endblog.

home.

2009-06-01T18:18:00.002-05:00

I decided to take a free day for myself and do something I've wanted to do forever. Run around the farm that has been in my family for over 100 years and photograph it. I remember spending the days on dad's tractors, feeding the goats or just hanging out at grandma's eating all of her Fannie Mae's. Now if I could just talk dad into letting me use the barn for sessions....

cha-cha-cha-changes.

2009-05-23T11:04:00.002-05:00

It never ceases to amaze me just how quickly a babe looses their newborn look. Miss V is already a week old (almost two!) despite my best efforts to dig my heals in and stop the world from spinning. As it stands, this will be our last tiny babe (unless my husband has some magic mind changing tea a few years down the road) and I'm trying to soak in all of those little things I love so much. Like the croaks. The stretches. The yawns. The lizard tongue that all of my children seem to posses. The itty bitty cloth diapers and the therapeutic folding that goes with them. I'm also amazed at just how much Vivian resembles Samantha and the fact that I'll actually have to start labeling the backs of pictures to keep them straight. Samantha has amazed me most of all with her love and concern for her baby sister. I had no idea a house full of this much love was even possible. *swoon*

our sprout is here.

2009-05-14T13:32:00.002-05:00

Welcome to our own little bundle, Vivian Scarlett. She joined our family on Tuesday, May 12th at 6:49 am. At 8lbs, 7oz and 21.25" long, she was not the itty bitty babe we were told to expect. I am very well and am busy settling in at home while trying to put us all back on schedule. Much love from our family to yours.

And I just had to share one of Samantha, taking a little joyride thanks to her Uncle Ryan:

newborn wrap-up.

2009-04-29T21:08:00.002-05:00

I just loved editing this squishy newborn session. Heather, thank you so much again for inviting me into your home to capture such cuteness. *swoon* All of your photos have been uploaded to your gallery!

workshop.

2009-04-29T12:44:00.002-05:00

A few weekends ago, I was able to attend a small photography workshop in Chicago. Exploring light and location are always a hit with me. A few of my favorites:

senior session wrap up.

2009-04-27T23:21:00.002-05:00

Instead of nesting or packing my hospital bag as I should be doing, I find myself frantically editing through my sessions from last week. A few more favs from the senior session...

couple session wrap up.

2009-04-27T23:02:00.003-05:00

More from the completed couples session. Thanks so much again, Maria & Casey!

oh, baby.

2009-04-24T23:23:00.004-05:00

This little man made me wish my own little babe would speed up her arrival. *swoon*

rockford, il photography - senior-ish portraits.

2009-04-24T21:15:00.002-05:00

Maria and I have known each other forever. We rode the bus to school together because we both lived out in the middle of nowhere. Ah, those were the days. Now Maria is graduating from college and hoping to join the work force as a teacher in our school district. More power to her. I know she's going to be amazing at it. Her cousin is graduating from high school this year and they're having a joint party. What better excuse to have some updated and fun pictures taken? We also roped Maria's man into posing for a few even if he was less than thrilled. Thanks so much to all of you for making it such a fun session! I'll be working on the rest of your images in the next week!

baby arrives before I finished editing again.

2009-04-17T10:25:00.002-05:00

The title says it all folks! I was more than shocked when I emailed to let Heather know that her session was complete and ready for viewing and she emailed me back to let me know she was currently typing one handed as their little bundle decided to arrive on Tuesday. This is the second maternity session I've had that the little one has decided to make an accelerated arrival shortly after our time together. Congrats to your little family and welcome to the world Aiden! I'm sure he'll find out quickly just how much of a loving and fun family he's been blessed with and I can't wait to see you for our newborn session! Until then, here are a few more favs from the maternity shoot:

and baby will make five.

2009-04-11T23:13:00.002-05:00

I had *so* much fun at my maternity shoot today. Heather and her family were absolutely lovely and we spent the morning rearranging all of her furniture. Thank you so much to her hubby for doing a majority of the lifting as the two preggo women ran around the house snapping pictures here and there. I hope you enjoy your sneak peek and I'll be working on the rest of your images this week!

few more favs.

2009-04-09T10:24:00.002-05:00

Now that the sessions are fully edited, I have a few more favs to share. Girls, thank you so much again for letting me capture such lovely images of your beautiful children.

mel and fam.

2009-04-05T19:31:00.002-05:00

Mel and I have known each other since my oldest was a tiny babe. Her kids are seriously a riot and I loved capturing their individual personalities. They had a blast posing and when I asked them where they learned to pose so well they responded, "From our mom!". LOL! The kidlets even helped me with setting up some shots and Kessa was kind enough to push the button on a snapshot of her brothers. Fun!

family session.

2009-04-05T10:20:00.006-05:00

I made the trip down to Bloomington yesterday to photograph this absolutely gorgeous family. I'll be working on the rest of your images this week. Thank you again for the opportunity!

advertising is essential.

2009-04-01T14:13:00.003-05:00

I can't stress enough how important continuing to advertise your business can be. This week I've been busy creating ads for Al's Carpet with locations in both Machesney Park and Belvidere. This family owned business has been one of our customers for the past 6 years and the personalized service they offer is just amazing! Thank you to "Al's Gals" for continuing to support my business and I hope these ads bring plenty of potential customers to your stores!

up to no good.

2009-03-19T10:47:00.002-05:00

Samantha knows that her innocent look is not fooling me. It does however fool random strangers and family members that don't live in our home. Samantha is my child that always has a plan. Her nicknames lately include Pearl (from Will Ferrell's "Landlord" skit) and Sybil. My darling girl, you are going to break many hearts on the path of life and probably put more gray hair on my head than the rest of the family combined. It's silly to pretend like I don't know where she gets her personality from...

my baby is five.

2009-03-17T23:16:00.002-05:00

Stephen turned 5 last Friday. I'm still working on accepting that fact...

and Samantha thoroughly enjoyed the chocolate cupcakes in celebration of her brother's birthday!

spring is in the air!

2009-03-05T19:56:00.003-06:00

What better way to celebrate our own pregnancy and babette on the way than by offering a maternity/newborn special?

happy anniversary.

2009-02-16T22:50:00.002-06:00

*cross posted from my 365 blog*

Happy 2nd Anniversary to us!! Two years ago today, Scott and I promised to love each other for as long as we both shall live. Along with honor. However, I'm pretty sure that whole "obey" nonsense was removed, though he likes to pretend I agreed to it. Scott truly is my BFF and I can't even imagine what my life would be like without him. He's an amazing husband, father and friend. Here's to many more anniversaries...

joyful.

2009-02-12T20:49:00.002-06:00

Testing the new equipment on two pupps that would rather be napping than be helpful.

winter wonderland.

2009-01-25T10:50:00.004-06:00

Yesterday I attended a mini-workshop on Winter Photography at Klehm Arboretum here in Rockford. The class was organized by someone from the local shutterbug club here and I'm seriously considering joining just for the opportunity to gush about my love of photography with others who won't start glossing over at my mentioning of aperature or which settings would work best in which situations. The temperature was bitter cold, however I managed to enjoy myself and be chatty regardless. It was quite fun pushing myself to take nature type photos as it's something I don't find myself doing too often. I was more than happy to return to the classroom at the end as I think my eyes were frozen in the open position! har!

Here are a few of my favorites:

kiddos.

2009-01-19T15:32:00.003-06:00

My kids makes the most hysterical faces for pictures. I love all of these just as much as the pictures of them smiling.

new project.

2009-01-15T13:43:00.003-06:00

As promised, I have started a new photography project in hopes of finding myself and pushing myself in my photography. Thanks to some poking and prodding, I've resurrected my 365 blog! Please join me there to follow along and by all means, feel free to comment! I love knowing that someone out there is reading and perhaps thinking of starting a project of their own! If you do, please send me the link so I can follow along with you as well! All of my work related blog posts will still be found here!

2009 365 project.

Eau Claire Photographer • kate bentley

moving forward.

{ personal post } more adventures of sammo.

{ personal post } awake.

{ sleep }

{ personal post } the boy.

{ ch-ch-ch-changes? } bigger is better.

{ personal post } The girls.

{ Eau Claire, WI } Frosty.

{ personal post } such a tease.

{ personal post } move[d]

{ personal post } 2009 : Looking Back

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } Nature's Masterpiece.

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } NOM.

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } Beautiful Boy.

{ personal post } holiday torture.

{ Rockford, IL Newborn Photographer } Session Wrap.

{ Rockford, IL Newborn Photographer } The tiniest thing.

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } Aiden's Wrap Up.

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } Clements Family Wrap.

{ Rockford, IL Newborn Photographer } The Beginning.

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } With one glance.

She never quite leaves her children at home, even when she doesn't take them along. { Personal Posting }

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } Other things may change us, but we start and end with family."

{ Rockford, IL Event Photographer } Music is an outburst of the soul.

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } Session Wrap.

{ Rockford, IL Family Photographer } In my heart of hearts.

{ Rockford, IL Maternity Photographer } Session Wrap

happy { weekend before } halloween.

{ Rockford, IL Maternity Photographer } I got you, babe.

heads up local people.

holiday cards are coming...

sammo is two. just ask her attitude.

"vacation at daddy's house."

"A boy's story..." : session wrap-up.

"A boy's story is the best that is ever told." : Charles Dickens

stop! autumn portrait time.

angie + adam : wedding wrap up.

"along came a princess v2.0" [newborn session wrap-up]

"and along came a princess." [me]

"can i see it now?" [andrew]

"the smile on your face lets me know that you need me" - angie + adam

angie+adam : pre-sneak peek.

otw.

beautiful girls.

ron + lindsey : session wrap-up.

for uncle joe.

ron + lindsey.

family session wrap-up.

"all I ever needed to know, I learned in kindergarten." [Robert Fulghum]

daddy's girl.

"an ounce of blood is worth more than a pound of friendship." [spanish proverb]

my viv.

session wrap-up: children + life

"a daughter may outgrow your lap, but she will never outgrow your heart." -Author Unknown

"while we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about." -Angela Schwindt

bachelorette wrap-up.

girls just wanna have fun.

i'm married to a thirty year old.

downtown wrap-up.

downtown rockford, smooth criminal style.

knit happens.

legoland adventure.

session wrap-up: little acorn.

"Tall oaks from little acorns grow." -- David Everett

how does my garden grow?

i *heart* knitting.

cute baby alert.

hotel boredom.

vivian is too little to escape yet.

sammo models when i bribe her.

Rockford, IL Family Photographer / big brother's session wrap-up.

Rockford, IL Family Photographer / big brother.

my kidlets are hilarious.

grandkiddo session wrap-up.

summer at last.

home part ii.

I *heart* my family.

home.

cha-cha-cha-changes.

i heart knitting.

I heart my family.