Twin Cities Family Photographer - Highlights from my 2010 Christmas

It was so wonderful to be able to spend Christmas with my family this year!  Here are just a few of my favorite images, amongst the hundreds I took over the weekend.  I have such great (and good lookin!) people in my family.  I am so blessed.  Just looking at these gives me warm fuzzies. :-)

Only 4 more days until New Years - which means you have only 3 more days to enter my contest!

Don't miss out - three people will win a month of Blooma Yoga. Take a moment to enter and your chances of winning are really very good!

Twin Cities Family Photographer - From Our Family to Yours

...Be sure to sign up for the Christmas Giveaway!

Twin Cities Wedding Redux Photographer - Wedding Photos (Re-done) a Year Later!

My friend Jen had a beautiful wedding. Everything went perfectly (for the most part!), and everyone had a great time. But to her, there was one disappointment...her wedding photos.

One year after her wedding, Jen formed a grand idea to resolve this problem. Why not fly her friend Elizabeth all the way down to TN, to do a Wedding Redux?

Well, this turned out to be more than a grand idea - it was a GREAT idea! Jen and I had so much fun planning this session, and all without the wedding-planning-pressure like the year before. We had the time and leisure to visit 3 different locations and to get all the poses she wanted. Her husband Zach was a great sport about it as well - I think he enjoyed seeing his wife so excited and happy. :-)

My favorite part was seeing the amazed look on Jen's face as I periodically showed her images on my camera. Jen forgets how beautiful she is, even though she could be a model. It was my pleasure to provide irrefutable proof of this! :-)



Before you go, be sure to sign up for the Christmas Giveaway!

Twin Cities Baby Photographer - 6 Month Smiles

Are you ready for your daily dose of cuteness? You've seen this little sweetie before here.  Now she's 6 months, and such a smiley, round little thing!  I had so much fun with this session today and just love the results we came up with.  Take a look and be sure to sign up for the Christmas Giveaway before you go!

Twin Cities Birth Photographer - A Christmas Blooma Yoga Giveaway!!

ANNOUNCING A CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY!

It has been a great year, and I have much in the works for the next (including a new birth website).  So, to say thanks to all my readers and clients, and in conjunction with Blooma Yoga,  I am giving my readers a chance to win a fantastic Christmas present:

AN UNLIMITED ONE-MONTH PASS TO BLOOMA YOGA!

Imagine trying out every class, and every teacher at Blooma in for a month!  The pass is valued at $99, and is valid at both the St Paul and Edina locations!  (If you win you can even give it as a Christmas Gift too.)  This will be a GREAT way for any woman (expecting, or not!) to start off 2011.

To make things even better, there will be three winners!

To enter, all you have to do is to visit my current birth photography page, and leave a comment there (not here).  You can tell me what you like or don't like about birth photography...ask a question...or just say hi! That's it

Entry will remain open until December 31st, 12PM.  The winners will be chosen at random  on January 1st (no double entries accepted).

Good luck & Merry Christmas!

P.S. See this video about Blooma for more information about this fabulous Yoga resource in the Twin Cities.  Need yoga inspiration? Check this out!

By entering this contest you agree to receive future email correspondence from Elizabeth Dahl Photography.

Twin Cities Birth Story Photographer - Little Wonder pt 2

A follow up to this Little Wonder.



The more births I photograph, the more I love what I do. This is where I belong, this is what I'm supposed to be doing... It's such a fantastic feeling.

Things have been super busy for me over the holidays, so this blog has fallen to the wayside as I simply edit, edit, edit. However, I think things are starting to slow down and I'm very excited to start sharing the various projects and sessions I've been working on. I also have a very exciting, super duper CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY coming up this weekend...so stay tuned for that! :-)

Twin Cities Holiday Photographer - Happy Holidays?

I'm very tempted to use this as our holiday card this year.  What do you think? ;-)

2010 Twin Cities Photo Session Giveaway - The RESULTS and the WINNER!

Back in April I announced my Photo Session Giveaway, stipulating that a winner would be announced when I reached 75 comments. I thought this would be pretty easy to achieve at the time, considering the web traffic and inquiries I receive on a daily basis.  However, I have only gathered about 50 online entrants to date.

So in order to wind things up and give someone a great session before the new year, I decided to extend this contest to people who signed up at my booth at the Twin Cities Birth and Baby Expo. Thanks to these 27 entries, I am now pleased to announce that the WINNER to the 2010 Dream Photo Session Givaway is...

Post #17- LIANNA WALBURG!

Lianna described the following as her dream photo session location: "Thinking of places near where I live in downtown Minneapolis, the Stone Arch Bridge and Mill Ruins Park is definitely a top choice for a photo opp! Picturesque arches form the bridge itself… the rushing Mississippi creates an impressive backdrop… the stony ruins of the old mill elicit curiousity about what used to be. Definitely recommend checking it out!"

What a fantastic idea!  I really look forward to creating a wonderful session for you, Lianna.  You will be hearing from me soon!

Lianna has won a “one-hour” photo session with Elizabeth Dahl Photography, specifically catered and customized to her needs and desires. PLUS she will receive a disk of 20 digital photos with printing rights. Congratulations, Lianna!!

Thanks again to everyone else who commented.  Ya'll are fantastic.  I so appreciate your continued support and readership! :-)

Twin Cities Event Photographer - The Twin Cities Birth & Baby Expo

This year I had the pleasure of being an exhibitor and photographer at the Twin Cities Birth and Baby Expo.  Enjoy these highlights, (as well as the babywearing video at the bottom of this post), and be sure to join us next year!

Twin Cities Birth Photographer - Little Wonder

Last night I witnessed the amazing birth of this little wonder. He is just perfect, and his mama was phenomenal!

A beautiful birth and lovely family, truly.

What a joy these little ones are. We are so blessed to have them in our lives. <3

Twin Cities Family Photographer - Minneapolis Fall Family Fun

Remember this beautiful birth? It's been about 6 months since then, and time for fall family photos!

Its always such a pleasure to photograph this family, but the beautiful fall foliage makes it doubly fun. :-)

Twin Cities Maternity Photographer - Pregnant is Beautiful, Pt 2

Remember Mindy? She is such a gorgeous mama and I had such a lovely mini-session with her. I just had to share a few more favorites with you!

Twin Cities Maternity Photographer - Beautiful Bellies (and smiles!)

When I first spoke with Kelly it was impressed upon me that she really wanted some good "belly art" from her session.  So I knew from the beginning that this was going to be fun!!  I enjoyed the result of session so much that I found myself having quite the difficulty editing it.  So many good shots - but which were the *best*??!  In the end these were the images that made the cut.  Enjoy!

Twin Cities Birth Photographer - A Brand New Miracle

So what kind of photography do I enjoy the most?  Birth photography.  Without a doubt.

I find each and every birth to be the most amazing and miraculous.

Every mama deals with it a little differently... but the outcome is always incredible.

Always.

Twin Cities Baby Photographer - A Baby's Many Looks

I recently put together a custom photography & print order for this family.

When their first child was one month old, they had a collage like this made.  So for the second child they wanted me to adhere to the same style and design - and similar poses.  This was my attempt at same-ness. I think it turned out very well!

Twin Cities Baby Photographer - Sweet'n Pink, Angel Baby

Remember this sweet little thing? Well at two months old she's finally home from the NICU, and though the size of most newborns, I'm quite happy to report that she's strong and thriving.

She did so well at her first at-home photo session! In fact she's quite the little model. I don't often have such an angelic baby to work with, but she sure did fit the part.


Do you need newborn pictures? Enter the contest!

Twin Cities Child Photographer - Park Cuties

Twin Cities Maternity and Family Photographer - Happy Expectations

Twin Cities Family Photographer - A Session of Adorable Red-Heads & Their Parents

I guess you could say I have a photographic affinity for red-heads. I've had a few people point this out, as they look through my portfolio. I suppose they are drawn to me for some reason, just as I am drawn to photograph them.

I don't often get such adorable subjects as I did with this session, however! Such cute kids. And the shy fiesty-ness of the little girl made the session all the more challenging - and rewarding! Her expressions were just perfect.



Do you need new family photos?? Enter the Contest!

Twin Cities Yoga Photographer - Blooma Yoga

This has been such an amazing, productive month for me.  I have had the opportunity to photograph some incredible people, and I can hardly wait to show you all that I've been working on.

One of my favorite shoots was for Blooma Yoga, located in Edina Minnesota (with a second site in St Paul).  Our model Mindy (also seen here) was so talented and easy to work with - and flexible according to all meanings of the word (all this while 7 months pregnant - seriously, I doubt my ability to form certain yoga positions at normal size!).

The Yoga photoshoot was not only fun and educational - it also got me so psyched to start yoga lessons, this fall!  With Minnesota's Siberian Winter inevitably heading our way, as well as a new little addition to the Dahl household come March (yes, that's right!), the prospect of an active yet relaxing way to spend my winter months is a very exciting one for me.  I may even take little Debbie to a Yoga for Tots class - or when I really need a break, take advantage of the childcare!!

Enjoy the photos below, and allow them inspire you to new heights of physical activity. ;-)

Twin Cities Maternity Photographer - Pregnant is Beautiful

This week I had the opportunity to shoot a really fun yoga session at Blooma Yoga (more on this, to come!).

After capturing some amazing yoga positions (really, they were impressive, especially at 7 months pregnant!!), our beautiful model Mindy asked if I could do a little "mini" Maternity session with her.  Well, of course! She was such a joy to photograph, and we came up with some beautiful, lovely photos that I can hardly wait to show her.

Below you will find my personal favorite from the day. She looks so peaceful and happy.  I just love it.  Thank you for letting me share this, Mindy!

Enter the contest.

Twin Cities NICU Photographer - Baby Shula

I was so excited when this mama chose me as her birth photographer! She seemed like a person I would get along with so well, and I was really looking forward to meeting with her.

So two months before her due date, I called her up to set a date for her maternity session. But something sounded a little "off" in her voice when she answered. I was immediately worried.

"Didn't you hear from {the midwife}?" she asked, "...The baby was born last night."

My jaw dropped. This poor mama! She went on to tell me her story, and I was so relieved to hear that mama and the baby were doing well, despite Shula's much-too-early introduction to the world. It would be a month before I would be able to take any photos of baby Shula, and even then she was such a little thing. But such a strong little fighter (and so much hair!).

Our photo session at the NICU was quite precious. Though a traumatic experience for all of them, this new little soul is such a blessing to their lives. I watched with such pleasure as mom and dad beamed with joy, over their tiny little girl. They can hardly wait to bring her home! And when they do, I'll be there to help them document an exciting triumph in their family's life.

Twin Cities Baby & Family Photographer - A Baby Peek ... Continued

You've already seen some of these photos before, but now you can view the rest of baby Lilyana's photo session through the slideshow below.



Complimentary online slideshows are included with every photo session, from now until October. Such a great way to share your photos with family and friends!

Twin Cities Baby Photographer - Baby Jael & Slideshows

Jael is such a great name. I love rare but solid names like that. And she was such a fun one to photograph!



For the next couple months, all clients will receive a free slideshow like the one below, with every session.  It's a great way to show your photos with friends and family...you can even share it on your blog, website or Facebook!

Twin Cities Family Photographer - Cousin Love!

With extended family in town for the holiday, we decided to have a little photo shoot for all the cousins.

All *12* of them!

I'm sure that one day they will look back on these photos with fondness, and many warm fuzzies.  But yesterday, these kids could care less. In fact, for some this session was pure torture!  But they really tried, and for a few lovely moments they made it work...well, mostly.  :-)

Do you need family photos?  Enter the contest!

Twin Cities Newborn Photographer - A Baby Peek

I had a newborn session this morning! Only a few weeks have past since the Maternity session, and now I get to take pictures of their precious Lilyana. Big sister loves the camera, too! So here is a little sneak peak at this very adorable photo session.









Enter the contest.

Twin Cities Sibling Photographer - My Sister's Keeper

Twin Cities Maternity Photographer - With Love, from the Peace Garden

This photo session almost didn't happen. It started sprinkling rain as soon as we arrived at the Minneapolis Peace Garden, but with the mama due at almost any time, we pushed through and made it work (thank you!) - with some really great results.

We had planned to take pictures in the Rose Garden, which was nice enough, but most of the roses were not in bloom yet. So I walked to the back of the garden...and discovered the Peace Garden right across the street. I was amazed at how absolutely gorgeous it was (I'm such a sucker for good landscaping), yet I had never even heard of it before! It has definitely won a place in my heart as one of my favorite nature-spots in all the Twin Cities. You will see more photo sessions from here, in the future!

Enter the contest

Twin Cities Mother & Baby Photographer - Pure Joy

As soon as I snapped this photo I know I had captured something special. I just love the look of pure joy on the baby's face. It warms my heart. Truly.

It is such an amazing, precious wonder, to have a child. My own child is one of the best, most important parts of my life.

I love being a mom!

And I love to witness the love other parents have for their own children.

I love being a photographer.

Twin Cities Toddler Photographer - Because She's My Favorite

It's been a while since I really, seriously, took the time to have a photo session with my own little Debbie. So last night we went off to the park, armed with 3 super cute outfits, and my awesome new lens (***LOVE!***).

Debbie was so excited to be out and about, so I was able to get adorably animated shots. It's always tough to catch a toddler on the run, but I was pretty pleased with the results.

Prepare to have a cute-attack!


And by the way, the contest is still going on!
Looks like we only need 33 more comments before we can choose a winner, so be sure to sign up and tell your friends about it.

Twin Cities Engagement Photographer - Photos from the Past

It was almost 3 years ago that I held my very first photo session - for someone outside my own family, that is.  

All I had with me was my trusty Panasonic point-and-shoot (it still holds a special place in my heart - and bag), and two friends who were extremely happy to be gittin' hitched. Since that unforgetably fun session, these friends have continually encouraged me in my photography. They were extremely happy with their photos, and remind me of this all the time. So I wasn't surprised to receive a somewhat scolding phone call from Rebecca, after my website debut.

"Why aren't any of *our* photos on there?!"

I tactfully tried to explain that the photos I took back then just didn't reflect my current style...and oh, and I have much better (expensive!) equipment now! She didn't sound quite satisfied, but we left it at that.

After considering it more, I decided to go back and re-master some of the photos (despite their sad JPEG, 6MP status). To give you an idea of what they looked like previously, see the comparison below.



Though do I feel that I have greatly improved over the years (I hope!!), I think these photos are still pretty special. For more than one reason.


I am lucky to have such awesome friends.

Enter the contest.

Twin Cities Child Photographer - Girly Fun

This little one was hard to catch! So much energy, and so much fun. Couldn't resist catching these expressions, during last night's maternity session (more on that, forthcoming). I look forward to photographing her with new baby sister, after she arrives!

Twin Cities Cousin Photographer - My Cousin Emily

Isn't my cousin Emily simply beautiful??  I snapped these shots of her during our Memorial Day picnic, at my parent's house.  She just finished up her Jr year with flying colors, and I'm so proud of her. She's so smart, creative and talented!

I wish I lived closer so that I could be more involved in her life - but I suppose this way she'll always have a nice place to vacation in the summer (riiiight? hint,hint!).

Love you, girl!!

Enter the contest.

Twin Cities Family Photographer - Win a FREE Photo Session!

Twin Cities Photo Session Giveaway!

Need Birthday, Senior, Maternity or Family photos?

Elizabeth Dahl Photography's Photo Session Giveaway is still going on!

So far we only have 20 entries - that means we need 55 more to choose a winner, so be sure to tell your friends and family about this special promotion!

To enter, check out this link, follow the directions and leave a comment. You will automatically be entered to win a FREE fully customized, one-hour photo session! There is no catch, no purchase necessary AND if you win the session is fully transferable (you can gift it to a friend or family member!).

As soon as we reach 75 unique entries (no double posts accepted) the drawing will be held, so be sure to tell your friends and family about this!

Twin Cities Family Photographer - Morning at Lake Calhoun

I had such a great family session this weekend! We met up at Lake Calhoun in Minneapolis, and the beautiful overcast day was just perfect for photographs. And by a happy happenstance, someone had left a boat on the beach for our own personal use. It made for a fantastic prop! I couldn't have planned it better myself. We returned home with some great photographs, and one particular funny story... ;-)

Here are some of my favorites from the session...

Enter the contest...

Twin Cities Child Photographer - My Girl

Here's my current favorite photo, of my little growing girl...


Enter the contest..

Twin Cities Mother & Baby Photographer: Baby Thomas

Spring is back!  Oh, and I'm lovin' it.  Currently a gorgeous 72 degrees in Minneapolis, and it seems a crime to stay indoors for very long.  Here in Minnesota we have such hard, long, Siberian-like winters that I have sometimes questioned why I still live here (..."ooh, that's right...I'm in deep crazy love with my adoring husband!"), but the amazing spring and summer months really does make it all worth it (- the love does too, of course!).

I've been taking lots of pictures with my new Canon 7D , but haven't had much time for editing lately.  I'm looking forward to showing all of you some really cool new photos - and video!  So stay tuned.  In the meantime, take a look at these mama and baby photos from a session the other day.  And be sure to sign up for my current contest if you have not already (I still need about 50 more entrants before I can pick a winner!).