Happy Birthday! : Destination Lifestyle Photography

When Audrey Jane came into the world on June 7, 2011, she brought with her the completion of a dream for Brian + Rachel. A family of four, back home, with a perfect boy and a beautiful girl. This spring, they saw that dream grow even brighter with the completion of their very first home in the fields of Wisconsin and Brian's placement as state trooper. I am so proud of them!

I've had the honor to watch Rachel become Rachel + Brian, then Rachel + Brian + baby Shane, and now Rachel + Brian + Shane + Audrey. Oh and we can't forget Jason the fish! You can see this transition here and here.

I love this family and everything they stand for : love, faith and the power of family. And I love even more that they let Aunt Syd come visit once in a while and bring her camera. This last visit was even more special: I had just made my leap to full time photographer just hours before and my first real gig? Audrey Jane's one year photos. I couldn't have asked for anything more perfect.

So here she is, in all her smiley gorgeous glory. Miss Audrey Jane, you are so funny and loveable. My hope for you? To grow into a strong and confident woman, just like your Mama. Always stay sweet. Love your big brother forever, because he sure has lots of things he wants to teach you!

From your Mama:
"We find delight in the beauty and happiness of children that makes the heart too big for the body." ::Ralph Waldo Emerson

xoxo,
(aunt) syd.
sydnee@sydneebickett.com
612.293.9096

Fisch Family: Milwaukee Family Photography

I spent a glorious Memorial Day weekend in Milwaukee with my dear friends, the Fisches! We played at the park, played at the house, read some books, snuggled, talked about what happens when baby sisters come to stay with us and how big almost-three-year-old boys are so cool. Oh, that was what I did with Shane :) Brian and Rachel were awesome as always, hosting impromptu pizza nights and cereal parties and finding the coolest Brat Fest I've ever been to!

We walked, we talked, and when it finally was time to do some nice family portraits at the park, somebody under 3 was NOT having it. In all my nannying expertise and Rachel and Brian's relaxed yet firm parenting style, we decided somebody needed a nap and we'd try later. A quick snooze, some lunch and ice cream at home and Shane was ready to smile! I embraced this moment and grabbed my camera, just talking and gently guiding Rachel and Brian into the frame. I will honestly say this was one of the best experiences of my career (so far!). When we just let go and let things develop, allow our subjects the space to be themselves and feel comfortable, magic happens :)

I could write a novel about how deep my heart feels for this family of three (and now four!), but I'll let the photos do the talking...

xoxo,

{Auntie} Syd

sydnee@sydneebickett.com

Rachel: Wisconsin Maternity Photography

With Rachel, I just don't know where to begin! I could tell you that she's one of my main besties, the world's greatest Mama, Shane's number one fan, but honestly, she's just "Rachel" to me. We've known each other since a coincidental meeting in college and been life-long friends ever since! One of those friends you know you can always count on, no matter when or what the situation.

Rachel met Brian, Rachel married Brian and Rachel had Shane all within a year and their adventure had only just begun! I am thankful to be a witness to their journey as a family and especially now that they're back "home" in Milwaukee and only a short ride away. Late last year, Rachel revealed she was pregnant again and this time, A GIRL! Apparently, Brian's family only makes boys, so Miss Audrey Jane will be the first female Fisch in quite a few generations :) YAY!

I spent Memorial Day weekend in Wisconsin, playing and photographing and just being with the Fisches and it was one of the most peaceful weekends ever. We were poking around the Madison State Capitol and the light was absolutely fabulous, so I pulled the ever-stylish Mama-to-Be onto the steps for an impromptu session. Everything worked in our favor -- these are some of my favorite photos ever!! Maternity session two and three happened later in the weekend and again, all successful. It helps when you have a beautiful model ;)

And next time I visit, little Audrey will be ruling the roost for sure :) I can't wait to spend a few days snuggling with her and enjoying my friends' new addition.

Without further ado, here's Rachel (and Audrey!):

And only 7 short days after I flew home, Miss Audrey Jane arrived at 3:59 a.m. weighing in at 7 lbs 7 oz and as her Mama wrote: "already melting our hearts!" Welcome to the world, princess :)

©Rachel Fisch

©Rachel Fisch

sydnee@sydneebickett.com