Tag Archives: olympia photographer

The raw, untamed beauty of Ruby Beach {Ballet Portraits}

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Dance speaks to something deep within my soul, it’s an emotional stirring that reaches into my core being, eliciting such a range of emotions.  To me, it is one of the most authentic expressions one can explore.  The idea for this session has been simmering for a long time, and I was finally able to find a day to escape and create images I am so proud of.  Immense gratitude for Liz and Carol–you are exquisite dancers, and two of the loveliest people–what a treat to spend an entire day with you both.  And to Emmett, my sherpa, my lighting assistant, and one of my absolute favorite people–thank you for lugging gear, holding reflectors and being my go to guy!

I am thrilled to share this images and planning my next dancers excursion… It can’t come soon enough.

Here is the link… https://animoto.com/play/6XlvVYOaOlRw2q1ZE71Vag

xo Cortney

Spring is here and with it, NEWBIES {Newborn Portrait Session, Olympia, WA}

I luuuuurve babies, especially the babies of my siblings. The baby of our family just welcomed his second little one, Gracen, into the world last week.  It never ceases to amaze me holding a newborn–she was just inside someone else, hours earlier… fahreekee and awesome…and now, boom, out, being a cool baby.  It was so darn sweet to see her older sister Payton holding her, singing her songs, and just being a darling 2 year old.  Dang these girls are sweet!  Thanks for hanging out with me today you cute cuties.

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Books & Poetry Abound … Bibliophiles Wed in the Woods {Northwest Wedding, WA}

Eric and Emily, self professed bibliophiles, were surround by towering pines above them and gaggles of kids from the knees down, on their wedding day.  This sweet couple wove their love of books into nearly every part of their wedding–starting with their proposal, their wedding invites–which were complete with bookmarks and library slips–tables tops piled with books, book donation bin for children, and even a bookshelf entry way for guests to pass through.  Their ceremony included a wonderful poetry reading, hilariously heartfelt wedding vows, and two of the very best toasts — delivered with wit and perfect comedic timing — by both of the brides brothers.  It was a wonderful celebration layered with love, acceptance, and a heavy focus on celebrating family.  It was just what I needed that day… Thanks to Annie Hastings for being a wonderful second shooter, I’m so grateful : )  Cheers to you both!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thunderstorms Be Gone! {Olympia, WA Wedding}

Sunny days for eons and eons and then a tiny blip on the weather radar… thunderstorms?!  The evening before Kristina and Ryan’s wedding was a lovely display of illumination and drama–thanks Nature for the spectacular show.  Thankfully, the clouds parted and the sun rose on yet ANOTHER sunny day here in the Northwest, right on time.  Kristina pulled the uber luck card in the floral arena–her aunt is the talented floral designer Lena Shed of Newbury Bay. The colors were bold and sassy–just like their wedding party, which was comprised of footballers and fast pitch players.  I’m surprised a game didn’t spontaneously erupt! The wedding celebration was full of smiles and ease as these two made promises to continue to support, laugh and watch football as they grow old together.  I’d say pretty perfect plans for a physical therapy doc and a football coach and teacher.  Healers and mentors, I know this sweet couple will continue to make massive impacts of goodness on all who know them.  Isn’t it comforting knowing this world is full of such lovely people?  I agree : )  Congrats you two!!

 

Rustic Country Themed Wedding {Kelly Farm, Buckley, WA}

What a whirlwind of sweetness!  I was so thrilled to be asked by Brad and Nayeli to capture their wedding celebration at an amazing new venue–The Kelly Farm.  Located in Buckley, it was tucked just off the road to Crystal Mountain, a route I know well…  As this ridiculous summer weather rolls on day after sun filled day, we were fortunate to find a bit of shade, perfect for portraits.  Brad was the smiliest groom I have ever seen, and it only grew wider and more twinkly every time he caught a glance of his perfect bride.  Nayeli was truly radiant–surrounded by her lovely friends and family, she eased through the day with complete grace.  I love calm and happy bridal parties!  As she emerged from the Bridal cottage with her Father, the mariachi band sounds lifted into the country evening.  I was on sensory overload with the beautiful floral designs, the rustic handmade touches, topped of with Brad’s family ranch brand burned into log rounds atop each table, perfect.  The couple and their family danced on into the night with unabashed happiness and vigor, which may or may not have been fueled by tequila… my kind of party!  Congratulations Brad and Nayeli!! The best of times are still ahead, and I’m pretty sure you’ll know how to manage… : )

Bubbles, Giggles and Tutus {Baby Portrait Session, Olympia, WA}

I just love my work!  How much more fun can one have than playing with babies and bubbles? Pretty darn adorable : ) Maybe add a kitten and a couple of puppies…naaaaaw, that would be taking the cuteness level way, waaaaay over the top.  One baby and some bubbles was plenty for me!

I welcomed Stephanie into the studio, her arms full with sweet, little Miss L–her adorable little one, eyes saucers of melted chocolate. Such a gorgeous child!  She snacked, smiled, played musical instruments and experienced bubbles for the very first time.  It was a lovely, sweet morning that made me long for my baby days…  Thanks for coming in you two beautiful people!  

Vegas Adventures… CreativeLive, WPPI and Curlee Bikini

Last week I had the amazing experience of immersing myself in the photographic industry on various levels.  I was an audience member of Sue Bryce’s creativeLive 28 Days, attended WPPI–great courses and tradeshow, and had the opportunity to photograph new swimsuits for Curlee Bikini: poolside, in a hotel suite and in the desert. I loved spending time with my darling brother Joshua, his talented love Mallory (Curlee Bikini owner/designer) and good friend Allison, being roomies for the week.  I’ve been home for a couple of days but still feel exhausted. What the heck?  Maybe it’s the mountain of emails and phone messages I returned to…  I’m slowly making my way through them : )  Here’s a fun little video slideshow I made of some fave Curlee Bikini images. http://animoto.com/play/d5Tj2QJ30OFzM1YkBN7F6g

Winter Warmth {Kicking up the heat with Boudoir photography}

There is nothing better than giving the perfect gift.  To see the smile that floods their face and mists their eyes, and the swelling of love at such a thoughtful gesture, so very rewarding.  So, how about kicking that up a notch or ten?  Well, for a couple of very lucky gentlemen, their wives truly gave them “the best present EVER” (direct quote from both) with the Little Black Book.  Thank you both for trusting me and for being such incredible subjects! It was a total treat to capture these gorgeous women, knowing the wonderful surprise that was in store for their lovies.  

 

 

 

 

Pigtails, Tickles and a Walk Through the Fall Leaves {Family Portrait Session, Olympia, WA}

I LOVE this adorable family! I’ve had the opportunity to know them and photograph their sweetness since K was a newborn. They are such a solid, together couple and wonderfully doting parents.  It doesn’t hurt that they are GORGEOUS… K is blossoming into such a little spirited, spunky thang–I just love smiles full of baby teeth : )  Cheers to family love!! Thanks for allowing me to capture your darling, darling family.
xoxo

Texas Sized Fun in Little Oly {Olympia Wedding, Indian Summer}

We all know the phrase “Don’t Mess With Texas” right?  Well, I don’t mind messin’ with Texas when a wedding party crew is as fun and Holly and Brent’s gang were. The weather was a perfect fall day in the Northwest, so much so that a few of those Texans are considering relocating…

Just as they were about to see one another, the clouds parted and sunlight came streaming down on the shoulders of one beaming bride, and the tears flowed as our tough Texan groom allowed the softer side out.  Thanks for allowing me to capture your day and cheers to years and years of happiness. xo