Heidi McKelvey Photography

New Blog :: Check it out!

2010-07-13T16:15:00.000-07:00

As of now, all sneak peeks and new posts can be found on my new blog. Blogger has served me well over the years but for photographers it is very limited. I am very excited to have my new photoblog so check out all that is new!!Heidi McKelvey Photography

Berekoff Family :: Sneak Peek

2010-07-08T22:03:00.000-07:00

This wonderful family just happens to be our dearest friends. Anita and I met at baby talk when our first babies were just weeks old and since then she has become my friend, my confidant, my sister. We have been through pregnancies together, parenting struggles with babies/toddlers, and now we are entering into the teenage stage together. Our kids are like cousins, they fight like siblings at times, and couldn't imagine going more than a few days without seeing each other.( Brooklyn even wanted to come home from Disneyland to see Amy.) This past weekend we ventured out camping only to come upon this beautiful location. I must remember to always have something photo worthy in the way of clothing from now on, even when we camp. It has been almost 2 yrs since these guys had a family photo taken so here they are. I definitely need to go back here for our family shoot. Enjoy, and maybe we can do more on our trip to Idaho!!

Gall Family :: Sneak Peek

2010-06-28T23:20:00.000-07:00

This past weekend on possibly the brightest, sunniest morning we have had in awhile I ventured out with the Gall family to a beautiful location I haven't been to since this time last year. This was a special weekend for Grandma and Grandpa as it is the first time they have had all of their grandchildren together. With one family in Ontario and the other at the coast, the get togethers with everyone are not as frequent as I am sure everyone would like. One of my favourites from the day has to be the one of Grandma and Grandpa. Married 42 years and obviously still very much in love! Five kids, ages 2-9 made for some juggling, but thanks to my good friend Jolanda we kept everyone in order. Here are a few from the day. Still many more to go through. Thanks to all of you for making the morning go smoothly. Your children are beautiful. I hope you enjoyed the rest of your stay here and had a safe trip home. Enjoy!

Taylor Family :: Sneak Peek

2010-06-14T19:20:00.000-07:00

With the bright sun shining and some clouds on the way I met this beautiful family at a location not far from my home. Finding locations with open shade on a bright sunny day here in the okanagan is quite a challenge so I took a chance and picked this location anyways. The old barn and beautiful wildflowers make for such a pretty backdrop, but the clusters of cacti hiding under the brush made walking in flip flops dangerous. My legs are a mess after two prickly locations in one week! Mom had chosen great colours and I am especially in love with this little girl's dress. My all time favourite colours! At 7 months she was great at sitting and doesn't yet crawl away and was very fascinated by the long grasses. The boys, at 5 1/2 and 3 took a little bit of time to warm up but seemed to be having fun by the end. Thank you Correna and Clarke for making the trek out here and spending the morning with me. Your kids are wonderful and I enjoyed our time together. Here is your sneak peek, enjoy!

I Heart Faces-"All About Babies"

2010-06-13T21:54:00.000-07:00

This week at "I heart faces" it is all about babies. Since I can remember I have always been drawn to babies. I babysat from a young age and it is only fitting that I chose a career as a maternity nurse. Since having babies of my own I have been captivated by photography and now I photograph babies! This week I decided to post a photo from a shoot I did awhile back and I love it! As a baby photographer I try to capture that serene sleepy baby, all squishy and new, but every once in awhile a good crying shot happens. This happens to be one of those. She was an angel for the entire shoot but here she is telling me she has had enough!

Baby Keaton :: Sneak Peek

2010-06-12T20:56:00.000-07:00

Today I had the pleasure of spending my morning with the cutest, happiest 3 month old little man and his wonderful parents. Not only was he a talker, but he smiled, cooed and even had a little sleep for me. Check out these baby blues! He will definitely be a heartbreaker so look out! Not being a "newborn" any more I wasn't exactly sure what to expect. By three months babies have definite likes and dislikes, so posing and expecting them to actually stay there isn't always an option. Keaton showed me it was possible to capture his emerging little personality. Thank you Jocelyn and Robin for bringing your beautiful son here to meet me. I look forward to seeing him again soon. Here is your sneak peek from our session. Enjoy! I will have many more for you too see soon!

My Girl and her BFF

2010-06-07T22:52:00.000-07:00

Since the long weekend in May I have driven by this location several times, each time wishing that I had brought along my camera and girls willing to be photographed. I just recently came across a local photog who actually did just that which again sparked my desire to make the short trek north and shoot here. This blond beauty is my eldest daughter, who in just a few short weeks will have completed her elementary years. It has yet to sink in that I will soon be a mom of a middle schooler. She was excited to wear her new dress (the one for her grade 5 grad) and when I picked her up from school today she asked if her bff could come too. These two girls have known each other from birth (her mom and I work together) and we happen to live only a few doors away. They are very much alike; smart, shy, and both love to dance. They rely on each other and are definitely BFF's. Here are a few from our day. I really should have been here weeks ago as with all the rain these beautiful lavender flowers are now about 5 feet tall! So despite forgetting my reflector, and having the harshest, brightest sun to deal with I am actually happy with how they turned out. Avery got in on the action too and wanted to make sure I showcased one of her! Enjoy!
My girl

Porter Family :: Sneak Peek

2010-05-24T22:32:00.000-07:00

I have been so excited anticipating todays shoot with a beautiful family and a super location, that just happens to be their backyard! I definitely will be using this place in the future, providing I can convince clients that the drive is worth it. The kids did a great job and were very patient with me and some of my ideas. Not one complaint!! I was very surprised to have it be a family shoot and not just the kids. Thanks Lisa for inviting me to capture these for you. You have great kids. Since I couldn't help myself this sneak is bigger than I had planned. Enjoy! I have many more that I can't wait to show you!

Easton :: Sneak Peek

2010-05-18T20:34:00.000-07:00

I have to say it again, I love this age. Very active, but yet so sweet and so easy to capture the true innocence of childhood. This little guy is sure to be a heartbreaker with his beautiful big blue eyes and long dark lashes. I hope you enjoy your sneak peak. Thank you for inviting me to spend the morning with your little boy.

I Heart Faces-Week 20 " Faces and Flowers"

2010-05-17T13:52:00.000-07:00

I love spring. Everything is fresh and new and what a great time of year for photos. I so love orchards with their blossoms as a backdrop. I posted this awhile back as a sneak peek for one of my clients but found it very fitting for this weeks challenge. This little sweetie is 18 months old. Super cute age for photos when they are into it, otherwise very challenging. This beautiful floral headband was a perfect addition to our session. Cute faces, and flowers, what a great category "I heart faces!"

Brooklyn's BFF

2010-05-14T21:46:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn missed her friends more than ever the week we were away. You would think a week in Disneyland would distract her but all I heard all week was how much she missed her best buddies. Tessa is one of Brooklyn's BFF's and with them both not in kindergarten today I decided to surprise Brooklyn and arrange a play date. Not only would the girls play all day, but I would have time to get some stuff caught up too. The girls had a great day, and I even was allowed to catch a few shots of them in a nearby orchard. Tessa has recently lost her two front teeth and I know how much her mom loves that toothless grin. This is for you Jolanda! (on a side note, Tessa knows me well enough to know that when she is here there is a pretty good chance the camera will come out!!)

"G" mini shoot

2010-05-14T21:36:00.000-07:00

During a play date today I couldn't help but bring out my camera to capture this beautiful blue eyed, long lashed sweetie. "G" was more than happy to oblige. So these are for you Shirley. I may borrow her again sometime!

Cory, Rachel, and Amy :: Sneak Peek

2010-05-14T21:17:00.000-07:00

This was a last minute photo shoot that I added to my day. Having been away the last week I was happy to be reunited again with my camera. Trying to coordinate times with these beautiful kids hasn't been easy between dance, baseball, and parent work schedules. Sometimes the best things come at the spur of the moment. Anita, it was a pleasure to spend time with your kiddos this afternoon. Hope you enjoy what we came up with! Of course you know there will be more for you.

For Julie :: another sneak peek

2010-05-03T00:06:00.000-07:00

I myself am very impatient. When I want something I want it now, or yesterday! I am not good at waiting for things so I can totally understand how hard it is for clients to have to wait for their photos to be completed. Thankfully in this day and age with blogs and websites we are able to provide a little sneak peek so the waiting doesn't seem quite so bad. Julie, I know how anxious you are too see all of your photos, and with my pending vacation I thought I would provide you with a second sneak peek of our recent shoot. Enjoy!!

Hadden Girls :: Sneak Peek

2010-04-25T22:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I ventured out to do some family photos for a girl I have known since I was a teenager. We actually worked together at the PenMar many years ago if you can believe it. Through facebook we have kept in touch here and there so it was great to finally reconnect face to face. This photo shoot was a surprise for Julie's mom for her special birthday, and she wasn't told about it until the morning of. As an added surprise Julie's sister flew in for the weekend. Right up until the shoot it was questionable if it would even happen and we were even making alternate plans for the next day. Fortunately the rain held off and things went ahead. Thank you Julie for having me capture this milestone birthday for your mom. I hope you enjoy your sneak peek from our session.

Baby Lauren :: Sneak Peek

2010-04-23T21:48:00.000-07:00

Baby boys are sweet but I am partial to baby girls. Girls are my thing (having three of my own!) It has been quite awhile since my last baby girl shoot so I was super excited to have baby Lauren here today. This is the second belly to baby shoot for me and I absolutely love to meet these little people once they arrive. You may remember her beautiful mama from her session earlier in March. I also had the privilege of meeting this sweetie at birth which makes this shoot even more special for me. Thank you so much Amanda and Jeff for allowing me to capture these memories for you. I hope you enjoy your sneak peek.

Blossoms and Beauties (a few more)

2010-04-21T22:08:00.000-07:00

Just trying this blog it board from MCP http://www.mcpactions.com/. Love it! Maybe my next purchase should be the story board action set!!!! Here are a few more from my session from the other day. I know you are checking Andrea.

Some for Me!

2010-04-21T21:40:00.000-07:00

I drive by this orchard daily and keep telling myself that I must get here to do photos before the blossoms are gone. So I did! As I said before, I love spring. I had all of my babies in the spring, March, April, and May to be exact. For those of you who know me well, this was no accident. I am a planner, and fortunately things in the baby department went my way. Here are a few photos of my spring chickies. I love being a mom of three girls! I wouldn't have it any other way!!

Blossoms and Beauties

2010-04-19T20:49:00.000-07:00

I guess it has been awhile since my last post, but there will be more to come in the next few weeks before I head out on a holiday. I was contacted a few weeks ago by a friend from work to do some orchard blossom photos of her two beautiful girls. I have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of spring since last year in hopes to do just this. Spring has to be my all time favourite season! When she first called the blossoms were not yet out, even in the south okanagan, but in the last week they have emerged in full. The day was warm and bright, the bees were buzzing up a storm, and these two cuties definitely made me work. I have forgotten just how fast an 18month and 3yr old can move especially when there is a camera pointed their direction. I have to admit there was a little bribery going on. Thank you so much Andrea for inviting me down to capture your two sweet little girls. Here is your sneak peak. Enjoy. And for everyone else, leave me some love, or better yet, call and book your own session!!!

Baby Cohen :: Sneak Peak

2010-03-26T18:17:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to introduce this little one now that he is has made his grand entrance. His mom Erin and dad Daryl were my very first clients for a maternity shoot back at the end of February, and now the story is complete. What a mellow, happy little guy he was for us today. Not only did he cooperate for cozy sleepy shots, but also had an awake, quiet time. Thankfully he does take a soother or things may have been different. He brought along some special hats knit for him by his grandma, and a cozy white blanket that Grandma knit while mom was in labour. Congratulations Erin and Daryl on your precious little man. May he bring you a lifetime of joy. Here is your sneak peak, and I can't wait for you to see the rest. Enjoy!!

Micah 6wks

2010-03-24T12:35:00.000-07:00

You may remember this little one from his newborn shoot a few weeks back. He was the easiest newborn I have ever had the pleasure of photographing, sleeping through the whole shoot no matter how he was posed. The only problem with this is I didn't get a chance to catch his eyes open. In chatting with his mom the other day we decided to bring him back to get a few of him awake. His eyes are so blue and even though the rest of his family has various shades of brown and green his mom hopes they stay this blue! I am so very lucky that this sweet baby lives right next door and I have been given free reign to have him model for me whenever I want. Thanks Chris, I will be definitely taking you up on this. Keep checking back as I watch him grow!!

Perfect Portraits or Capturing a Memory

2010-03-18T23:03:00.000-07:00

As I journey in this world of photography I often struggle with taking photos that capture everyday memories as they unfold. I don't take my camera everywhere I go and sometimes feel like I do miss out on some of our life happenings. I really need to get better at not trying to make every picture I take into a perfect portrait. Let's face it, real life is often not perfect. I want to look back at this time in my kids lives and be able to see photos that tell a story, not just a photo shoot opportunity. Today the girl's and I ventured out in the beautiful sunshine and did some park hopping. I did take my camera which gave me something to do while they played. It was fun taking pictures for a change, not worrying about perfect light, perfect looks, or perfect focus. We had a great time. Here are a few from our day, not perfect but real life as it happened. Wall hangings, probably not, but I hope they will make it into an album one day.

My Middle Girl

2010-03-16T23:39:00.000-07:00

Steve and I always knew we wanted three kids. We each came from a family of one girl and one boy. I would have loved to have a big family, especially a sister. When we were having our second child, after having a girl first everyone just assumed that I hoped for a boy to make the "perfect" family. Really, I wanted a girl. When Avery arrived I knew she would be the middle child and it seemed like she knew this from the very beginning. She was and still is the polar opposite to her sister. She is my dark haired girl, my most outgoing, spiritual, sensitive, and very loving. There is though a stubborn streak in her that surfaced very early. She crawled early and once she hit 10months old really gave me a run for my money. I wasn't quite sure how to parent her. I researched the "strong willed child" convinced she fit this category, but now I realized she was actually just determined. The maturity she shows now continues to baffle me and I am proud of the confident young girl she is growing up to be. It is hard to believe she will be nine in a month and a half, yet most of the time I have to remind myself that she really is only this age. Today Avery was very patient as I played around with my new camera. She decided to wear her contacts today so I had to take advantage of seeing these beautiful big eyes without glasses. Love you Avery!!

Expecting Lauren

2010-03-14T19:25:00.000-07:00

Today we ventured out in the blustery weather to capture this beautiful mom to be. Having postponed already once this week due to extremely windy conditions we took our chances that our location would be somewhat sheltered, despite being on the lake. Driving out the waves on the lake were huge and I was a little worried. This mama would be beautiful, windblown or not! Thankfully we were able to shoot between gusts and I am very pleased with the results. Thank you so much Amanda and Jeff for braving the weather with me. I enjoyed our time together. Here is your sneak peak. Enjoy! I look so forward to meeting your precious baby girl when she decides to make her grand entrance.

Under Construction

2010-03-11T00:13:00.000-08:00

Please excuse the mess this blog is in temporarily. The technical side of web devices such as websites and blog coding are just not my area of expertise. It is late, I am tired and frustrated so this is how it will stay for now. The images in the header are not mine ( I wish) but soon they will be. Keep coming back and I will have it figured out soon. Thanks!!!

Firstborn

2010-03-09T22:17:00.000-08:00

This beautiful girl you see here is my firstborn. Almost eleven yet in many ways seems so much older. Why do kids grow up so fast these days? She is mature far beyond her years and I am loving watching her grow. As a preschooler/younger child I always characterized Delaney as "high maintenance". There were frequent meltdowns over things that I just didn't understand but now I am seeing those personality traits in a new light. With maturity has come redefinition. The need for everything to be a particular way has been harnessed into extreme organization and neatness and being on time to her means being 10 min early. I am continually amazed by the way she keeps her room clean and actually offers to help out the family. I love this girl! Delaney and I are connecting now on a different level. I actually "get" her. I always thought we were so very different but as the years go on I see how very similar we actually are. When we decided today to venture out and check out some locations for a shoot I have coming up this week Delaney took it upon herself to get dressed in order to have her photo taken. This is so very rare I just had to take advantage of it. So here she is, my beautiful baby girl, getting way to grown up.

I Heart Faces-Week 10 "Jump for Joy"

2010-03-08T15:26:00.000-08:00

This week at I heart faces it is all about the "jump shot". I shot this one of my girls last spring pretending to be cast from High School Musical. I love the expressions on their faces. Check out all of the cool photos here at http://iheartfaces.blogspot.com/2010/03/week-10-jump-for-joy-photo-challenge.html

Baby Eli-Sneak Peak

2010-03-08T13:26:00.000-08:00

The other day I had the privilege of seeing this little one again. He was born several weeks early but you could never tell that now. At three weeks of age he really made me work to get these sleepy shots. I got lots of snuggle time which I love and you can see why his mom and dad are just smitten with him. Thank you to Shelly and Justin for the opportunity to spend time with your sweet baby boy. Enjoy your sneak peak.

Mama to Be: part 2

2010-02-28T17:00:00.000-08:00

I must have been half asleep when I posted yesterday as there were a few photos I really wanted to share but realized earlier today I had forgotten them. One in particular is my favourite. For you Erin! Don't be afraid to leave a little love! Let me know your favourite!!

Mama to Be

2010-02-27T22:36:00.000-08:00

There is just something extra special about the impending arrival of your first child. For some the anticipation is even longer awaited. I was very excited to venture out with Erin and Daryl today for my very first maternity shoot. As a maternity nurse, bellies and babies are very familiar to me, but this belly is extra special, a true awaited miracle. I feel very privileged to be the one to capture these special memories for you. I had a great time experimenting, and you both made my job very easy. Here are just a few of the hundreds from today. Enjoy! I am looking forward to meeting this special little person in the next few weeks and having him/her debut here!

Just One More!

2010-02-22T15:57:00.001-08:00

I couldn't resist and had to post one more. I am getting nothing done today! ( I mean nothing like housework.) I still have a previous shoot to finish editing but just can't keep away from today's files!! I mean, how cute is he!

I Heart Faces-Week 8 "Hands on Fun"

2010-02-22T13:59:00.000-08:00

The photo challenge this week is all about hands. Big hands, little hands, baby hands, old hands. I chose to go with baby hands. There is something special about how a newborn grasps onto anything that comes close to their palm. An inborn reflex. This little boy is already wrapped around his mommy's finger.

Baby Micah

2010-02-22T13:46:00.000-08:00

I had the sweetest, sleepiest little bundle of boy here for his newborn shoot today. He is the third little boy for this family who just happens to live right next door to us. Born just 11 days ago, I was lucky enough to see him just hours after he made his arrival three weeks early. Having only girls it is so much fun to have a baby boy around. I have had a few boy shoots lately and find they are so much more laid back than girls. Must be because they make up for the busyness in the toddler years. Thank you so much Chris for lending him to me this morning. I am so happy with the way these have turned out. My new 7D rocks!!! Enjoy!!

Baby "H" and family sneak peak

2010-02-15T07:39:00.000-08:00

Thank you so much Sue for inviting me back a third time to capture these images of your beautiful extended family. You make my job so easy. This was my first go around with a "non sitting" baby that wasn't a newborn, but this red headed beauty made it easy. She did very well considering all the people around trying to coax the smiles out of her. You would never guess that the these girls were uncomfortable in front of my lens. I know very well how hard it is to be "natural" when you have a camera in your face but you girls pulled it off. Here is a few of your photos to give you a teaser. More to come soon. Enjoy!!

We Heart Kisses-photo challenge

2010-02-08T12:12:00.000-08:00

There is nothing sweeter than kissing the soft little cheeks of your newborn baby. The love between mother and child is like no other.

My Monkeys

2010-02-07T15:21:00.000-08:00

If you would have told me years ago that I would be a mom of three beautiful girl's I would have said "no way". I mean, all I wanted in the world was to have one daughter and God saw it fit to give me three. I am blessed! I have often been asked if I would consider trying for a boy, and the answer is and has always been no. Not to say that having only girls is without challenges. You can be certain that there have and will be many to come. Every so often people cringe when I mention the fact I have three girls, commenting on the teen years and wishing me luck. I am up for the challenge (I think). I see different pieces of me in all of them, despite the fact only one resembles me in looks. My oldest is almost 11 and very much a tween. Wow kids grow up fast these days. She is a sweet girl, helpful and loving. I am seeing glimpses of the teen years and I feel bad for her that she is and always will be the guinea pig as I test out my parenting skills. She is my shopping buddy and loves the mall as much as I do. Her sisters on the other hand care less if they ever see the inside of a store. It is our bond and I love it. My middle girl is almost nine and pretty much the polar opposite of her older sister. She is confident, spiritual, athletic, and liked by all her peers. She commented a few weeks ago that the boys like her, "everyone likes me", as if this is a curse. This quick photoshoot was actually prompted by her after looking at all the photos I take of the youngest (who happens to be home with me during the day while the other two are at school). My third is so not a baby. She has been showcased here alot so as you notice there isn't a photo of her alone today. She actually had no desire to "model" today. I love these girls with all my heart. They continually teach me patience, and unconditional love, and make me want to strive to be better mom. I can't imagine my life any different!

Love this face!

2010-02-05T15:24:00.000-08:00

These last couple of weeks have been busy here. Planning and moving forward with my photography on the business side of things. Business cards being worked on, decisions with what to do with this blog (because I want to be able to post larger, better quality images), not to mention a few shifts at my real job. I am excited to see what this year will bring. I am trying to sell my existing camera in hopes of a great upgrade. Any takers?? So my head has been swimming with ideas but I couldn't forget the opportunity to catch this brief moment in time of Brooklyn, my sweet baby girl, sporting a large gap where her two baby teeth used to reside. A couple of weeks ago I posted her one hole gap but this last week Brooklyn decided that the other front tooth was loose enough (and bothersome enough) to let me pull it out. These aren't complete toothless grin pictures as the new big teeth are coming in at great speed. I always thought this stage was a little goofy, but I can't imagine her being any different. I am going to miss this!! I sure love this face and the lovey little girl it belongs to!!!

Trying this trial version

2010-02-04T13:59:00.001-08:00

I found this trial version of MCP's blog it boards on their website today and thought I would give it a try. I could spend a fortune on all of the great actions I find and what fun I would have with them. Maybe I should just figure out how to make my own actions!! check out all of the great stuff on this website!http://www.mcpactions.com/actions/blog-it-board-actions.html

Testing 1,2,3

2010-01-29T15:30:00.000-08:00

Tessa

2010-01-22T16:25:00.000-08:00

Tessa has been Brooklyn's friend for as long as she can remember. Today was one of their off days from kindergarten and as both girls get very bored when not at school a play date was arranged. I have been trying for what seems like almost a year now to get photos of the whole family but with busy schedules it hasn't happened (working on it for spring!) I mentioned to Tessa that we should do some photos and she was all over it! Here is a few. These are for you Jolanda! And the black and white is for Tessa because she says these are her favourite!

Sweet Baby "E"

2010-01-21T13:56:00.000-08:00

I just completed this photo shoot about an hour ago and just couldn't wait to edit a few of these photos and get them up here for the family to see. I have to say again, six month olds have got to be my absolute favorite to photography. Newborns are cute and squishy but there is something to be said for a subject with a developed personality. This age usually is fairly easy going. They haven't developed anxiety towards strangers and if they had been fussy newborns, this has usually passed. What is left is a bright eyed, smiley little person who usually shines in front of the lens. I have been excited to photograph this beautiful long lashed baby for sometime now and am glad that today finally worked out. I was not disappointed and the wait was definately worth it! Baby "E" was smiley and happy for a good hour and I am very thrilled with the results. Thanks mom for letting me capture these for you. Here is your sneak peak. Enjoy!

I Heart Faces-We are Family

2010-01-18T23:05:00.000-08:00

I love this photo of this family of three. Not only are they very photogenic but they were so natural in front of my lens. It was only three days after Christmas and about minus 6 degrees celsius but that didn't stop us from venturing outdoors to capture the love that exists between mom, dad and their beautiful 14 month old daughter.

Baby "A"

2010-01-14T18:58:00.000-08:00

I have been really looking forward to this newborn shoot. I came into this with new ideas, new props and a new light reflector. Even my sleep has suffered the last two nights as I brainstormed, planned, even prayed for the baby to be sleepy. Well this little man did not disappoint. He arrived fed and sleepy, and once settled into my warm, and I mean warm, photo area he just zonked. He tolerated position changes, backdrop changes, and a hat or two, or three. The cute little white hat was knit by his grandma, but the other two, my co-worker Caroline knit for me. I think I will need to get one in every colour! I am very excited to work on these over the next week or two, but until then here is a sneak peek! Thanks to his parents for spending a better part of their day with me. Enjoy!!

I Heart Faces-Week 2 " Best Face Photo"

2010-01-11T22:49:00.000-08:00

I have been checking out the I heart faces site, http://iheartfaces.blogspot.com/ for several months now and figured it was time to start entering some of my photos in their weekly photo contest. When this weeks theme was faces I knew exactly which photo to enter. I know I just posted this picture but it is definately my favourite of 2010 so far. Brooklyn reluctantly agreed to model her new christmas toque for me. I just love this face!

Brooklyn

2010-01-04T16:17:00.000-08:00

Those of you who know me know that this is my youngest of three girls. (And if you don't know me thanks for stopping by and please leave your mark!!) Brooklyn is 5 and very much a blend of her sisters. I often look at her and have to remind myself that she is just 5. She is smart, funny, and very particular about certain things. For instance this toque that her grandma bought her for Christmas. I don't think I will get her in it this winter but if she thinks about it and gets used to the idea of wearing it, she just may want to wear it next year! I love her to death and am cherishing the days we have just the two of us. Full time school starts for her next fall, and I have decided not to think about it! For now I can enjoy playing pet shops and polly's, doing puzzles, and bribing her for the occasional photo op. The motivation for this shoot was the fact that Brooklyn has been missing one front tooth for at least 2 months now, and the next one is about to fall out. Just had to get this cute toothless stage captured!

Minnesota Juliens

2009-12-28T21:22:00.000-08:00

I had the opportunity last summer to capture this cutie pie and her mom in the Julien girls photo shoot, and was excited to be asked back to do photos that now include dad! They call themselves the Minnesota Juliens, and as you may have guessed, that is where they call home. Addy is now 14 months old and her Nana and Papa were very excited to have them here in Summerland to celebrate the Christmas season. Addy came right to me the moment I arrived and was quite the character in front of the lens. She really wanted nothing to do with sitting still at first, and it took awhile before she would keep her christmas toque on her head. Thank you so much for inviting me to capture again these memories for you! Hope you enjoy your sneak peak.

Madelijne

2009-12-02T19:28:00.000-08:00

I headed out today in the sub zero temperatures to do my first Christmas mini-shoot in a location I have thought of but never actually used. This sweetie is not even 5 years old but has such presence in front of the lens. She was quite a trouper considering it was very chilly. A little shy at first but I was able to coax some smiles out of her. Thank you Aerin for having me photograph your beautiful daughter. I am looking forward to finishing the shoot amongst the blossoms this spring!!

Cheeky Monkey

2009-11-30T16:16:00.000-08:00

I just love the cheeks on this little man. His mom Jen, a fellow photographer and I did a quick photo exchange last week mostly so we could each get a new facebook profile pic. Lucky for me I was awarded the opportunity to photograph this cutie again. I have to say, being in front of the camera is definately not my comfort zone but thanks to Jen I actually have a few photos of myself that I really like. I am so excited for our spring family photo shoot. Check out her fantastic photos on her blog http://jenifersander.blogspot.com/. Thanks Jen, next time I will be way more relaxed!!

Baby "E" and big brother "C"

2009-11-20T23:30:00.000-08:00

I was very excited when I heard this little one finally made her debut knowing I would be doing this shoot. Her mom is a friend of mine and I was very privileged to be at her older brother's birth just over three years ago. Sad for me that I missed hers. Having been in their beautiful home in the past I knew the lighting would be amazing.( I think they should rent out the space to me for a studio!!!) Sweet baby "E" cooperated and gave me some great sleeping shots. She looks so peaceful. Big brother "C" is all boy, and had a few minutes for me and quick snuggles for his sister. I tried to push the envelope and get some just of him but when I asked he ran away saying "no thank you!!" Thank you Heather for allowing me into your very busy, tiring time of adjustment with your beautiful family. Enjoy.

Kaila and Shawn Sneak Peak

2009-10-03T20:54:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that it was a year ago that I first photographed this sweet little man. He has grown and changed so much. I have decided that one year olds are the best for photographs, especially when they are not yet walking. Thank you Kaila and Shawn for having me document Ethan's first year. Here are a few that I promised. Lot's more to come. Enjoy!

Baby Nolan Sneak Peak

2009-10-02T21:39:00.000-07:00

Fall is in full swing. The girls are back at school, dance and skating and with Brooklyn in kindergarten 2 or 3 full days per week I am finding time again to pursue what I love to do...photography. I was asked by this sweet little boy's auntie (whom I work with) back in the spring if I would be interested in doing his newborn photos. Of course I couldn't refuse! I met mom Amy the day she was being discharged from hospital to set up a convenient time in the next week to get together. As the first week is optimal,day 5 of age it would be. I was very excited....all I could think about was the squishy, baby folding I could do. And to top it off he was jaundice and sleepy, perfect! Well, this little man decided to wake up on day five(meaning his jaundice levels were decreasing). Good for him, not so good for me. We did manage some great shots, but he wanted nothing to do with being folded or squished. Newborns, they are not predictable! Big brother Ben was on the move and not too interested in getting his pictures done. I was able to catch a couple. Thank-you so much Amy and Shawn for inviting me in to your very busy first week with your precious baby. I hope you are getting settled into your new place. Thanks too to Auntie Kate for the referral! Here are just a few.

Dhillon Family Sneak Peak

2009-09-01T21:07:00.000-07:00

With ominous black clouds looming and the threat of a thunderstorm, we were lucky to get the shoot done just in time. The weather went from bright sun to dark in a matter of an hour. Thank you Remy and Lucky for having me capture some beautiful memories of the four of you. I know kids don't love being in front of the camera on vacation but they did great. You have beautiful family. Hope you enjoy what you see here. There are many more to come!

Julien Girls

2009-06-30T22:21:00.000-07:00

My shoot last night with this beautiful group of ladies took me to two new locations that I will definately be revisiting. One quaint little shed right across from their home, and a beautiful orchard overlooking the lake towards Kelowna. It isn't very often that this family has a chance to be all together with each daughter/daughter-in-law living between Victoria and Minnesota. This beautiful sweet baby was a pleasure to photograph (babies are still my favorite), and this age is so much fun. Active and expressive, but still not yet crawling. Thanks ladies for a great evening. Here is just a peak. Enjoy!!

Linnette, J, and J

2009-06-21T21:09:00.000-07:00

Finally after at least 6weeks and two postponements I was finally able to coordinate an evening to shoot this wonderful family. Between work schedules, kids sports, and weather, things came together. All day I watched the weather as a thunderstorm was in the forecast. As I drove to Penticton it poured, but the sun came out, casting beautiful light for a great evening of photos. I was a little nervous I must say, having very little experience photographing teenage boys, but this handsome guy put me at ease and was a natural in front of the lens. The love he shows for his sister was so neat to see, as was the bond between them. Being a sporty family, the graffitti basketball court was very appropriate, and the kids had fun goofing around. The shoot ended in Summerland, with the sun just setting. Thanks guys for being such great sports. Here is a sneak peak for you.

Out in the Orchard

2009-05-26T16:38:00.000-07:00

The long wait for my new lens is over and I am so thrilled to finally have it. Things have been a little slower in the past few weeks so I have had time to take out my girls and take some sweet shots. Although my oldest decided she didn't want to partake in the shoots, I had a very willing model in my best friend's middle daughter, who happens to be best friends with my middle daughter. The relationship they share is very special as they have been friends since the time they were born. Rachel is so like my firstborn it is surprising they actually share no DNA. I did have to "pay" Brooklyn and was pleasantly surprised that she even agreed to a wardrobe change mid shoot. When we were done and at home again she reminded me about the money agreement...."mom, where are my nickels?". I am so pleased with the results. I am taking an old school friend out this weekend with her two kids so stay tuned for the results.

Something New

2009-04-22T18:22:00.000-07:00

I have had the pleasure over the last couple of weeks to photograph two new babies, one boy and one girl (but not at the same time!)Baby "A" belongs to a couple I have gotten to know since his birth. His dad works with my husband and his mom is a great photographer. I have to admit I was a wee bit nervous to photograph them, but all in all I am pleased with the results. I spent the morning with sweet Baby "L" and her mommy last week, and although she decided she wanted to see what was going on instead of sleeping I was able to capture her in all her sweetness. This little girl is lucky to have a helpful big sister who loves her so much. Thanks to the moms and dads for your time and patience. Here is just a sneek peek.

Beach Baby

2009-04-08T16:33:00.000-07:00

I first met this little sweetheart just after his arrival and couldn't get over how squishy and cute he was. I just love his mop of platinum blond wavy locks and couldn't wait to capture all this cuteness. Here is just a sample of the many. Although I have to say, he really didn't sleep for any great lengths. At nine days old I think he was way more interested in what was going on. Thanks so much to the mom and dad for giving me the opportunity to capture these precious moments for you.

My Girls

2009-03-29T19:57:00.000-07:00

I don't know why I hadn't noticed them before...the barns that is. I had been on the lookout for a great barn to do some photos and the other night there they were. I have run the same route many times before but the other day I saw them and it was as if they were just recently dropped there! It took a little convincing, but three showers, hair blow drys, and outfits later my girls agreed to a photoshoot with me. Unfortunately by the time we were ready the sun was in full force, but thankfully a few clouds allowed for intermittent periods of cover. I will definately head back here! Avery even captured a few of me (seen on facebook), but as I prefer to stay behind the lens that is where they will stay.

Baby J

2009-03-29T16:02:00.001-07:00

The beautiful little angel you see on my header is a co-workers niece that I had the pleasure of photographing. She was the littlest one yet but at almost 2 weeks old she wasn't too interested in sleeping much. We did manage to get her eyes closed for a short period in the 3hrs of shooting. My ultimate favorite is the one you have already seen, but here are a few more. Thanks to mom and dad, auntie, uncle and cousin Ethan for letting me capture your precious little one. I look forward to seeing her again.

Ethan

2009-03-10T13:08:00.001-07:00

I had the priviledge of photographing this little cutie when he was just a couple of weeks old. A couple of weeks ago he brought his new baby cousin over for photos and I happen to catch a few of him as well. Ethan has the biggest brown eyes and is sporting two new teeth.

Mark and Tina Feb 14th 2009

2009-03-09T12:16:00.000-07:00

Here is just a sample of photos of this beautiful couple.

Photos to Come

2009-03-08T21:19:00.000-07:00

Not sure why blogger won't upload my pictures. Keep checking, they will be here soon!

Mark and Tina

2009-03-08T20:55:00.000-07:00

Last fall when my friend Tina approached me about photographing her Valentine's day wedding I was flattered but also very unsure. I wavered and even gracefully declined but after many urgings from Tina that it would be OK, I finally agreed. I am so glad I did. There is nothing like photographing your first wedding. Every thing I read discouraged me from even entertaining the thought of doing it. This motivated me even more to dive in head first, research and learn. The day couldn't have been more perfect. After many prayers for warmth (meaning above 0), no snow or rain, or blasting sun to reflect off the bright white snow, everything turned out great. Here are just a few from the day, some already viewed on facebook, but some new ones not previously seen.

Introducing Heidi McKelvey Photography

2009-03-08T20:43:00.000-07:00

Some of you may know that over the last several months I have taken my interest in photography to the next level. Many hours have been spent researching photo sites, dabbling in photoshop and getting a feel for just what I want this to become. I have received tips and tricks from experienced photographers who have been generous enough to share, remembering what it was like to be "getting their feet wet". I have had the opportunity to photograph the miracle of newborn babies, the wonders of children, and even dove head first into a full on church wedding probably with the most challenging of lighting conditions one could find. I have enjoyed the challenge, and as with most things worth persuing there is the never ending learning curve. I look forward to this next chapter in my life and hope you will enjoy what you see here.