inPDX {Twirling Around with Heidi Heaphy Photography}

Growing up my mother always coordinated family photos at the end of every August. It was a huge production - coordinating outfits, emotional humans, American Girl dolls. And the hope that we would behave well enough to be rewarded with Pickle Barrel. Reflecting now, our behavior most likely did not warrant the best sandwich ever, but parenting us most certainly did!

Through this we learned the value of really great photographers, how to smile through pubescent angst (mostly), and that sandwiches are worth pushing down sibling rivaliries.

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to twirl around The Pearl with Portland-based photographer Heidi Heaphy. Heidi and her husband are actually from my hometown in Montana, but we reconnected via social media when she spotted the fabulous tulle skirt my mom made for me.

Heidi Heaphy Photography

Going into the shoot I was a little nervous about how a really full skirt on my short frame and hourglass figure would photograph. And then it started to rain and I was worried about my hair getting frizzy and my face looking puffy .... and... and... and.  Also known as, "I hopped on the insecurity express." Well, within minutes of being with Heidi all of that fear and anxiety disappated. I wasn't worried about people staring at me or my body parts looking less than ideal. I stopped thinking about how I looked, and was in the moment of having fun and being creative. The photos showcase my zesty and bold salad personality. I credit all of this to Heidi and her professional yet personable demeanor.

Heidi has a natural gift and talent for bringing out the best in her subjects, while still letting them be themselves. Be sure to stop by her blog for more pictures from our shoot and to see her amazing portfolio of wedding, family, senior and newborn photography.