rocio and orlando: maternity shoot

God is so good. Seriously. It was such a blessing to be able to do this maternity shoot with Rocio and Orlando. Their patience and trust as a couple has been such an inspiration. They have waited so faithfully for God's timing to bring new life into the world and being newly married ourselves, I pray that Jeff and I will be able yo trust God just as faithfully in this process. I have learned countless lessons from Rocio and Orlando, but the thing that stands out the most clearly is the idea that, "God is writing your story". Although many of us wouldn't choose hardship in life, we can fear no evil knowing that our Heavenly Father is shepherding us through it all. Orlando and Rocio, may you never forget the love and comfort of His rod and staff as you learn to raise baby Eli into the ways of God. I can already see that you are going to be amazing, creative, fun-loving, flexible, and most importantly prayer-filled parents. May the Lord continue to bless you, keep you, shine His face upon you, and be gracious. We look forward to the birth of your little one with joy and expectation!

julie and chris: maternity shoot

It has been such a fun process to see Julie and Chris' relationship develop over the past nine years from dating to marriage and now parenthood! With each new season has come a new sense of commitment, responsibility, and deep joy. I was super excited therefore when I was asked to photograph their growing family around Lincoln Park. Praise God for such a beautiful day, and praise God for Chris and Julie's friends and family that have surrounded them both with so much wisdom and encouragement thus far! I pray that God blesses their baby girl with a profound knowledge of Himself and of His unconditional love and acceptance for her, and that she would desire to walk in His ways and serve Him in all aspects of her life. Julie and Chris, may you be equipped with God's power, strength and wisdom to lead her in the ways of righteousness and truth and may He be glorified by you home as it serves as a blessing to others.  I am praying for you both in this new season of life and for a smooth delivery of your first child in just a matter of days/weeks! Much love and many blessings.

liz and epi: third trimester mini-session

It seems like just yesterday that I was grilling Epi at our kitchen island about what he likes about Liz and why he thinks he should be able to take my roommate out on a date, let alone was standing in their wedding. Now in their third trimester, the Diaz family is expecting their first child, and I am amazed at what God is doing with Little D inside of my dear friend. It was been such an honor to walk alongside them in this amazing season of life and am beyond excited to meet this child face to face. Little D, my prayer for you is that you would follow the gaze of your parents and look to the cross. May you learn what it means to be a sheep in our amazing Shephard's pasture and rest in the peace of knowing His nearness to you. He is for you  little one and will never forsake you in your weakness. Love ya. :)

liz and epi: first trimester maternity shoot

Liz and Epi are some of my closest friends and so I was totally stoked when I picked up Liz from the airport and she had a sneaking suspicion. We walked into Walgreen's,  purchased a pregnancy test and she told me that she would text me to let me know if it was it was for real this time. Suspicions were confirmed, and indeed the Diaz's are expecting their first child on May 20th, 2014! It feels like just yesterday that Liz was my roommate, let alone they got married! My how time flies and the Lord has continued to bless their relationship through the highs and lows that this past year has brought. I am so excited to see these two beautiful people raise Little D in a Christ-centered-servant-hearted home. Not to mention that I am a little excited to be the primary tia Amy that this child thinks of, ha :). Congratulations Liz and Epi! I am so honored to walk with you guys through this new season of life! Praying for you Little D :).

the swanner family: maternity shoot

Last week I had the joy of celebrating the adorable and seriously pregnant Swanner Family downtown in Chicago's Lurie Gardens. What a blast! It is so clear that this couple's marriage is full of laughter, adventure and slobbery dog kisses. Nick and Sarah have a very comfortable relationship as they have known each-other for most of their lives. It was not until they got married however that they actually became best-friends. It was so exciting to see them discuss and explore this new season of their lives as they prepare for the newest member in their home! Swanner Family, with all necessary things ready to go, I pray that you will relish in this unique and sweet stage of expectation before you can physically cover your first born child in your tender love and affection. May your home always be filled with laughter and joy! Congratulations!