Liz and Michael’s maternity session was special, because I’ve been photographing Michael’s large family in one way or another for over a decade now. Wedding pictures, baby portraits, family gatherings — you name it, I have documented it for the extended Ziccardi family and I’ve enjoyed every minute. So when Michael and Liz got engaged, I was tickled that they chose me to photograph their wedding. The early days of the pandemic forced a bit of a change in their plans and they ended up eloping, but even so, I got the photograph their special day — its tiny scale made it even more sweet and romantic, in my eyes. (The last photo in this series is from their wedding day, just for fun.)
Branding Photo Shoot for a Colorado Springs Dog Trainer
I recently did a branding photo shoot for Allison, who is launching a dog training business and needed some pictures for her site. If you need anyone to help you with your unruly pup, she’s the one! Allison’s senior dog Charlie was the star of the show, but my little guy Frodo got to shine for a few minutes, too. I nearly died of all the cuteness but thankfully I survived the onslaught and we came up with some great, casual images for Allison’s site (https://www.gomuttstraining.com/).
Valentine’s Day Surprise Marriage Proposal!
It’s a Valentine’s Day surprise marriage proposal at the Garden of the Gods! Nick and Shelby were here visiting from Texas, and Shelby was completely under the impression that they were only having some nice couples portraits done in a scenic place. Little did she know that Nick was secretly planning to propose! Of course he and I worked it all out well in advance. After taking a few cute portraits at the High Point, we wandered down the trail a bit. When we found just the right spot I had them stand on a photogenic rock formation, ostensibly for more poses, then Nick suddenly got down on bended knee and popped the question. Her response was an enthusiastic yes! Afterward, we took a few more official portraits, because how could we not? The view was magnificent and this happy couple’s love really comes through loud and clear in the images. Congratulations Nick and Shelby, wishing you the best!
Urban Family Portraits
Check out these cool urban family portraits! The N family wanted something different and unique, a set of portraits that reflect their personalities both as a family and as individuals. Single mom Mindy requested Evergreen Cemetery as one of the locations, not because they’re morbid or “goth,” but because they love Colorado Springs history and are enthralled by how it’s so well represented in this beautiful and serene place. (I agree with them!) After getting some nice portraits of them at the cemetery, we moved on to a more casual vibe in a favorite alleyway downtown. We were lucky to have such beautiful, mild weather on this mid January day, and I love the great urban family portraits that I got of this close knit family.
A Marriage Proposal in the Garden of the Gods
I love documenting a surprise marriage proposal, and this one in the Garden of the Gods was extra sweet. Leo and I secretly planned the date, time and location well in advance, and Soraya had no idea that she was going to be proposed to. There was a tricky moment as she suggested they go sightseeing in another location, but naturally Leo insisted on the preordained spot where I was sneakily waiting for them, or everything would have gone sideways indeed! Of course Soraya said yes, and the whole thing was very emotional and adorable. We did a few official portraits afterward and I think I can safely say that it was a memorable day for both of them!