I had the great privilege of hosting a 1:1 full day mentorship with Sierra of Sierra Ashleigh Photography in Portland, Oregon in June! I enjoyed every minute with this sweet and talented young woman.  We started the day with an incredible brunch, where I presented her a 40 page book of my thoughts, recommendations, inspiration, technique’s, advice and much more.  We talked about life, business, and shared our personal stories.  Our day finished with the opportunity to photograph the most incredible couple, styled by the insanely talented Kaleb Norman James.

When I host a 1:1 mentorship, it’s important to me that I work with real couples when teaching.  I want my attendee’s to witness and experience how I guide, direct, and gently pose real couples.  Models are wonderful, and they for sure make it easy!  However, I want my work and the work of my attendee’s to be honest….and working with a real couple in love with produce those genuine moments of connection.   Leland and Emily’s love story is so real, raw, and beautiful.  I could not be more grateful to these two for being our willing models.   When I received Emily’s inquiry for the “real couple model call”,  my heart knew instantly that this was the couple I wanted to bless.  Thank you Emily and Leland for being so wonderful!!

Here is their story in Emily’s words:

” Leland and I met almost 11 years ago here in Portland. We hit it off immediately with our love for food and weekend adventures. After a year of dating I was diagnosed with cancer and moved to Southern Oregon for treatment. For almost a year, Leland traveled to me for every important appointment/moments and was my rock. I am now 9 years cancer-free, back in Portland living an amazing life with Leland who continues to be my rock. We are also so blessed to have two healthy children. Leland proposed two years ago on our 10 year anniversary in Victoria BC and we later designed my engagement ring together. We do not have a date for a wedding but anticipate a huge celebration of our love. We would be so excited to be in your ‘wedding’ shoot!”  – Emily

Planning, Floral and Design: @kalebnormanjames

Venue @leachgardenevents

Gown @alexandragrecco

HAMU @austieeckley

Shoes @louboutinworld

Ring @susiesaltzman

Paper Suite @tiethatbinds

Cake @sainte.g

Rentals @classicvintagerentals

Lab @photovisionprints