Dakota at 1 week

Not all newborns are cute, sometimes I think they resemble alien like forms. Especially when they stretch their neck, there is something very E.T. about it. But, I believe this little guy is perfection, I may be partial seeing that he is my nephew and all. But, honestly, just take a look. This sleepy little cherub is such a little darling. His precious little face is fawned over by many, the family and friends that surround him are so filled with love and joy, he is in for such a sweet little life. He may even have a future as a male model if I can continue getting him in front of my lens. Dakota, prepare to have your life documented through my camera. 

Dakota Warren Whitaker

Dakota Warren Whitaker was lovingly welcomed into the world on Sunday November 2, 2014 at 10:40am, weighing a healthy 8.1 lbs. So much love and so much excitement around this little man. 

Words don't accurately describe what it's like to hold such a new life. Nor are there words to accurately describe what its like to watch my little brother so proudly and confidently step into the role of fatherhood. 

Amanda and David are naturals, congratulations to them. 

Amanda & David Whitaker

Amanda and David excitedly await their new family member who came just 7 days after these photos were taken. 

It all starts somewhere

It turns out I'm a photographer AND a writer. Who knew. Here is my first published article for MiLLENNiAL magazine.  

#ShineOn Taylor Harkness

It all starts somewhere. 

I had a photo shoot scheduled in Santa Monica that day with the founder of Roaming Hunger. I wanted to make the most of the grueling commute to the west side by taking a class at YogaGlo, and it just so happened that one of my favorite yoga teachers (second to Kathryn Budig, of course) was in town teaching at YogaGlo. Score! After 2 phenomenal classes with this wonderful teacher I realized more people need to know about the goodness that is Taylor Harkness. In a gutsy move, I approached him after class about interviewing him for MiLLENNiAL. Being the sweet soul he is, he agreed. I had no questions prepared, but I knew the story would unfold. He had so much to share, his energy is infectious. I had written quadruple what what published, I must have edited the piece down at least 7 times, with the guidance of my helpful and honest roomie. 

 We were limited to shooting in the parking lot of the yoga studio. (Respectfully, we couldn't shoot inside the space.) Usually my photos tell the story and invoke the mood. That was not the case in this experience. It was refreshing. I look forward to writing more in the future. As a photographer it was a nice change to let the photos be secondary to the story I wanted to share. I always feel there is a barrier between me and my subject, a certain lens I am seeing them through. When I'm able to sit down, communicate directly, look into their eyes and truly get a feel for their experience through their words, it opens up a whole new view on life. 

I am incredibly grateful for this. 

Day 7 from our road trip across America

 Day 7 of our road trip from New York City, New York to Los Angeles, California 

Stats:

States traveled through: Nevada and California 

Miles driven: 551 miles 

Bathroom breaks: 17

Sticks of gum consumed: 13

Song of the day: "Riptide" by Vance Joy

Weird foods of the day: Rice Krispie Treat Sheet. Yes we ate the whole thing. 

Memorable moment of the day: The thunder and lightning storm we watched as we drove straight towards it during the sunset. 

Socks of the day: Banner mix and match by Stance

Sleeping arrangements: Home sweet home