Vantage Desert Stylized Senior Shoot | Olympia Senior Photographer

Right about now every year I REALLY start missing the sun! As a Pacific Northwest Senior Photographer I love the rich PNW mood of winter but I will forever miss that warm glow of the sun! Rain rain GO AWAY, so that sun can come make my day!

Here are some gorgeous sun drenched images I took back in September! This was such an amazing, adventure filled day - several other photographers and I piled into a car and road tripped over to Vantage, WA. Isn't the scenery amazing!!!!!  I cannot wait to go back come spring! Message me if you are interested in a portrait session in the gorgeous location.

***Desperately seeking an adventurous couple MADLY IN LOVE who wants their love documented with this gorgeous background!!!

How do YOU get through the dreariness of winter?

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Kenzi + Daniel's Rattlesnake Lake Couples Maternity | Olympia Maternity Photographer

One of my absolute favorite session to date - Kenzi and Daniel's Rattlesnake Lake maternity was a dream!!! As a Pacific Northwest Maternity Photographer I live for the dreamy, moody PNW sessions. The rich colors of Rattlesnake Lake along with Kenzi's red hair was a perfect combination! This sweet couple just had their baby boy, join me in welcoming baby Everett!

Congrats Kenzi, Daniel and new big sis Olivia!!! - Can't wait to get your amazing little family in front of my camera again!

To see more of this amazing session click HERE.

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Kristin's Lularoe Self-Love Experience - Test Run | Olympia Event Photography

A few months ago, my friend Kristin - who sells Lularoe - approached me with an idea she had for some gatherings she might need my services for. Her idea was to put together some events with her Lularoe business that would focus of women's self-confidence and friendship instead of sales. As an Olympia Event Photographer I was curious and intrigued, as a woman with self-image issues I was thrilled!

I arrived early and helped Kristin put together a few "sample" outfits to get things started. Kristin had all her inventory out for the ladies to try on and some yummy snacks that kept my tummy happy - and fueled a month long addiction to candy cane Hershey Kisses. The focus of the get together was to have fun and find something the women were comfortable in and loved. Seven women, with all different body types came together and had a blast picking out outfits for themselves and each other! We laughed, joked, smiled and made neighbors stare while we took pictures on the side walk.... HAHA.

Kristin also had her long time friend, Julie, come show off her Origami Owl inventory. Julie is super sweet and has some great jewelry including a really amazing aromatherapy necklace which I am now a proud owner of!! To contact Julie about her amazing inventory click HERE.

Not only was the event a success but what a great concept!!! When I asked Kristin why she decided to put on such an amazing event, this was her response "Because I struggle with my own self image, I was fairly certain I wasn't alone in this thinking. I want people to put on the clothes, maybe in a way they haven't tried before. The clothes are comfortable, but I want women to feel comfortable not only in the clothes, but in their own skin. My hope was that you could capture in each of them what they don't see, but what the rest of us do see. "

I saw it, Kristin, I saw it!!! Each one of your girls are absolutely gorgeous! What an amazing experience from the brain and heart of an amazing woman. Kristin, you are one of the most beautiful, fun and caring people I know. Don't stop loving others - you see the beauty in everyone, keep showing them. I'm so glad you decided to make this a monthly event!

To contact Kristin or join her for one of her monthly self-love experiences click HERE or visit her business page HERE.

Meet Kristin! The mastermind behind the Lularoe Self-Love experience. Isn't she gorgeous!

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Thank you, 2016 | Olympia Wedding + Portrait Photographer

I would like to start by saying thank you, 2016 - you were rough for many but I'd like to take a few moments to celebrate the good that you brought. I choose to focus on all the positive experiences and growth that I saw this year. Although there are many more, below are the top 10 highlights that made my heart pump pure happiness, my soul soar in the clouds and overall made me fiercely proud.

---

10. A few months ago I picked up blogging to increase the exposure of my business page, as it turns out blogging has become so much more to me than just a business tool. I used to write poems and journal but it has been many years since I've written anything creative and I forgot how rewarding and fulfilling it is. Going into 2017, I hope to further embrace this outlet and use it to grow both as a person and as a business.

9.  I rebranded- I took 5 months off for maternity this year and my business decreased significantly, which made me very sad but I am so grateful I was able to spend that precious time with my children. It also really made me reflect on my business, my goals, my style and overall where I wanted to go with photography. Coming back off maternity leave I decided I really needed to narrow down these things and build a business that represented me and my work. I hired a business coach, Skye Tucker, and began a journey that eventually helped me pinpoint my style, streamline my processes and make my business more efficient. BTW, Skye is AMAZING, she is kind, empathetic, real and wicked smart. If you would like to take your business to the next level -or tackle any questions you have about business- contact her. Do it, you won't regret it. Part II of my official rebrand was having a logo designed - one that represented me and my business! I chose Wild Hyacinth Design Studio to create a custom brand and I couldn't be happier!!! I had a vision of what I wanted and she NAILED it. Just look at this beautiful logo! I adore it! Thank you Skye and WHDS for helping me piece together a business I am proud of.

8. As I look back throughout my year, I reflect on every moment that I captured and I realized that one thing that makes me happy is the happiness that my images bring to others. The tears, laughter and joy that my clients feel when they see their images is a huge part of what drives me to do what I do. I care about my clients and I connect with their experiences - I think that has made me a better photographer and business owner because I go out of my way to make sure my work is at this level. While it isn't perfect, I am constantly growing and reaching to document the most meaningul and cherished moments.

7. I have found, thanks to responsible adulting -that falling into a monotonous and comfortable routine is....easy. Photography allows me to break the chains of this routine and step into a world where my visions come to life. Taking creative control to create something that I connect with balances out many of the negatives that this world has to offer. Even before I'm done editing one passion session (one I truly love and connect with) my brain is already planning the next. I am SO thankful for the creative outlet that photography provides me. To my children, Teagan, Quinlynn, Avalyn, and all you reading this - please, explore all options to find a creative outlet that you connect with. Don't wait and don't be scared, the reward you get will feed your soul.

6. As a photographer, I find it very important to have friends in the industry -to chat with, work through issues, learn from and explore creative adventures with. I made a few friends this year who I value beyond measure - Samantha Ek, Pamela Obenchain, Marcus Annable, Tammy Dalquist, Anne Snider, Joe Chirilov, Skye Tucker and Markie Jones. I'm also grateful to my old failthfuls - Gina Winterstein, Monica Willequer, Jennifer Lolmaugh, Jarob Oriz, Nicole York, Marilyn Quisenberry, Peggie Ireland and Constance Kronlund. Thank you for enriching this year, and photography in general, for me. Community over competition - we lift each other up and support each other through and through. My.Heart.Is.Happy.

5. My number six appropriately leads me into my number five -professional growth. This year I put in countless hours into my education. I took several big classes, read every article I could find, spent hundreds of hours practicing and refining my skills and along with all that I learned from my photography buds, I grew substantially this year. Leaps and bounds! Guided by passion and a will to constantly learn and  improve - 2017 will be even better yet!

4. One of my greatest accomplishments of 2016 is finding my passion within photography - the type of images that speak to me. I discovered my love for capturing raw emotion- the authentic human connection. In every photo, I strive to document happiness, love and joy without a single word spoken. Moving into 2017 I take my newly defined passion with me and I will let it guide me for it is my North Star, my compass -my calling.

3. My lucky number three is -YOU! That's right, you. My loyal and supportive friends, family and clients. None of this would be possible without you, period. Thank you for sharing this journey with me. Thank you for your continued support. Thank you for believing in me. I am grateful and happy to have you all in my lives. Special shout out to my hubs of course. Thanks for letting me follow my passion, Kyle.

2. Taking it personal now, for the most memorable moments of 2016 involve the loves of my life. Teagan James - you are stubborn and strong, sweet and energetic, empathetic and kind. Your blue eyes sparkle at any thought of adventure and your sense of humor is such a big, and amazing, part of who you are. Keep on this path and live fully and exceptionally. Quinlynn Grace, my strong and fierce girl. You challenge me every moment you are awake, yet I am grateful that you are so strong in character. Some day, when you are grown that trait will be invaluable and will keep you on your chosen path. Although I will always worry about you, as my baby girl, I can already see your inner strength and that you were born to lead, not follow. Go forth into this life with strength, grace and kindness. Use this trait and your heart to love and protect others. You, someday my tiny girl, will change the world.

1. In May, my life changed forever - we welcomed our third and final tiny addition to our family. Avalyn Marie, you are the epitome of happiness. Your smile is contagious and you inspire me to not only be a better mom but a better person. Every single day I am thankful for the ear to ear grin on your face and even when I am at my lowest, you lift my spirits and make it all worth while. In these last 7 months you have taught me to greet every experience, good or bad, with a smile. Thank you, my sweet love, I look forward to more sloppy kisses, gummy smiles, endless giggles and watching your personality emerge as you grow up. You are a kind soul, Avalyn Marie- I need you, this world NEEDS you.

Although 2016 brought many deaths, tragedies and negativity - I encourage you to join me in celebrating all that makes this life beautiful and memorable. I am not only inspired by my children, I am inspired by YOU and the magical moments that make your life worth living. Please take a moment to scroll down to the comments section and tell me what you are most grateful for. Inspire others with your positive thoughts and experiences!

My new years resolution is to document the little moments that make your heart soar. I vow to go beyond traditional posed photography and capture the true you and everything you are feeling in that second. For in the end, the little moments of joy, laughter, connection with those who you love and raw authentic emotion are a huge part of what makes us up as people. These are the moments that describe our souls without a single word; these are the moments truly worth documenting. Together lets make 2017 a year full of smiles, love, friendship, success and pure joy.

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Heather + Curtis Rattlesnake Lake + Ft. Steilacoom Park Maternity Session | Tacoma Maternity Photographer

This sweet couple, Heather + Curtis, are getting ready to welcome a little boy! Can't wait to see his chubby cheeks and cute little toes! Congrats to you two!

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Marina + Yakov's Discovery Park Bridal Session | Seattle Wedding Photographer

Marina, Yakov and I had fun exploring Discovery Park in Seattle. It was a bit cold out but that didn't stop us from getting some great bridal portraits and having tons of fun while we did it!

This couple is so sweet and genuine and it was clear that they love each other beyond words. Capturing true love without a word spoken makes my heart happy.

For those considering the Seattle area for weddings, bridal or engagement portraits, check out Discovery Park. It is a diverse and simply beautiful location for any type of portrait sessions. There is woods with evergreen trees, an epic beach, grassy fields and a lighthouse! Bring good shoes though, this park is huge and ready for some exploring!

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Joe + Daisy's Ft. Steilacoom Park Maternity Session | Tacoma Maternity Photographer

This adorable couple is going to make one gorgeous baby. I don't do newborn photos but I call dibs on holding her!

Purple Mermaid dress by IBC Boutique. Visit their page here to see a variety of STUNNING maternity dresses.

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Kristin + Pooji's Capitol Building Couples Session | Olympia Engagement Photographer

The chemistry between these old friends, recently turned lovers, is undeniable. Kristin said it best "This is what happy looks like."

She's so right.

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Kerena + Jaren's Franklin Falls Couples Session | Seattle Engagement Photographer

#brownchickenbrowncow

....because boudoir at a waterfall is epic...

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Adryanna's Chamber Bay Senior Portraits | Tacoma Senior Photographer

Adryanna, you are one amazing girl! Way to rock your senior photos!

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Teagan Turns Four

Dear Teagan,

Wasn't I just pregnant with you, my tiny boy? Wasn't I just feeling your daily hiccups and waiting anxiously for every (not so) tiny kick? Seems like hardly any time at all has passed since I was (im)patiently awaiting to hold you and kiss you and snuggle you. Four years. HOW has it been that long?? I think back about all our moments we've had, the funny things you've done, the hilarious things you've said and it makes me sad because I miss your chipmunk cheeks and the Grand Canyon sized rolls in your thighs that swallowed pants, fuzz, food and whatever else was unlucky enough to come near those things. BUT, every day is a new adventure with you and as much as I miss all times we had together I also look forward to all the new things coming, all the new funny things you'll do and all the new hilarious things you'll say. I very much look forward to watching you grow up and I hope that you never lose your sense of humor or desire for adventure. I love you, (not so) tiny boy. I love you today more than I did yesterday but not as much as tomorrow. I will always love you, unconditionally and with all that I am. So, keep growing up - not too fast though - and always remember to be kind, love those around you and always be true to yourself.

Always,

Mama

View fullsize

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Alyssa's Downtown Olympia Pin-Up Maternity Session | Olympia Maternity Photographer

This girl is not only gorgeous but she ROCKED her session! I had so much fun shooting Alyssa's pin-up girl themed maternity and we got to explore downtown Olympia a bit.

oh, and thanks to the lady from the hair salon for letting me borrow her chair, the dude who's truck we used - we couldn't find him but I insisted we only pose near it and not touch it- and to the woman in the shop who let some crazy ladies pose in her window. Love you Oly!

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful