It’s no secret that fall in the Midwest is a kin to a 90s romcom. Right? Specifically Iowa State University’s campus during peak leaf changing time — it doesn’t get prettier than that! When you live near Ames, Iowa you’d be silly not to take advantage of the proximity.

If you’re looking for a smaller venue in the Midwest, I’d strongly encourage checking out the MN Landscape Arboretum! There were so many nooks on the grounds of the arboretum — it was photo heaven! One fun spot of note in the indoor greenhouse area. We took a few of their couples portraits in here and it was soooooo gorgeous and added some easy variety to their gallery.

Since becoming a parent in the winter of 2021, I’ve become so passionate and sentimental about photographing newborns and growing families (obbbbbviously). I especially love the point of view of an in home newborn session. Documenting what life truly looks like in those first few weeks of adding a new member to your family is so so sweet. The heart behind everything I do is documenting moments that can be looked at with love for the next several years, decades, and generations to come. That being said, I’ve got lots of tips for those who are looking forward to their own in home newborn session. Let’s get into it!

Iowa Summertime Engagement Session feat. a Jeep and a Sunset

Ellie + Peyton’s Iowa Summer Backyard Tent Wedding Day

Des Moines, Iowa Studio Family Photo Session | Iowa Family Photographer

Downtown Des Moines, Iowa engagement session featuring backgammon, pillow fights, champagne, and pizza.

Madi + Jack: Colorful Iowa Wedding Day

Genevieve + Mitch’s wedding day was the perfect example of a timeless + personal day. Their wedding color scheme was simply different shades of blue, lots of floral prints, and there was an emphasis on sentimental details. Some of those details included the lace on Genevieve’s dress which came from her mother’s wedding dress, Mitch’s cufflinks which were gifted from Genevieve, and G’s veil made by her mom. And obviously, G’s reception dress made entirely from her mom’s wedding dress. So so so dang fun!

Mya + Tanner’s Modern Iowa Fall Wedding Day

Whether you’ve seen this coming for weeks or you were completely surprised, it’s official! That being said, the to-do list always seems daunting and never ending. Here are 5 things to focus on the first few weeks of your engagement…