Kyla Jackson Photography

New Year's Eve Elopement ~ Jessica and David

2012-01-18T15:45:00.007-07:00

Jessica e-mailed us a week before New Years to ask if we were available to photograph her wedding on December 31st. She and David had originally planned on a very simple elopement involving little more than the courthouse, but fortunately they were convinced by friends and family to make it an event. They were married in the Fort Lewis chapel (same place that our own parents were married [little tid-bit of unneeded information]) in full wedding atire, joined by their closest friends and family. They took some awesome photos with Kyla and headed up to the mountain to get a bit of riding in. What fun way to celebrate! Simple, just how I like it. Jessica and David have the most adorable five month old daughter. She was a trooper through the whole ceremony, but too little still to strap onto a board. I'm sure it won't be long before she's carving right beside them!

Durango High School Senior: Nicole

2012-01-04T15:48:00.015-07:00

Nicole is one of those girls that you want to know now, but can't wait to meet again in ten years. She has lofty goals to be successful and social and is already on her way there by graduating an entire year early. We lucked out because photography is a hobby of hers and for her independent study she has decided to intern with us on a few events and photo shoots. We love her company and the camera loves her!

Wesley's Photos

Eagan Ford; Mighty Nephew (aka Awesome Jr.)

2011-12-14T14:44:00.014-07:00

This little turkey is what our family was thankful for this Thanksgiving. Ryanne, Jed's sister called Thanksgiving morning and in response to his, "Happy Thanksgiving!" she told Jed, "Happy Birthday!" Eagan Ford joined this world at 4:01 am on November 24th, weighing a hearty 7 pounds 9 ounces, complete with ten finger, ten toes and an awesome head of hair! We love you guys so much!!! Good work :)

Wesley's Photos

Bonding with Uncle Jed...

Brian, Eagan's dad, is well know for leaving fake insects around to try to catch his guests off guard. Eagan is already playing along to entertain his pops :)

Will ~ X-Rock Photoshoot of an extreamly talented, well rounded senior

2011-12-06T14:37:00.009-07:00

Will is far from your average high school senior. His talents and interests include rock climbing, aerospace design, stage lighting and engineering. He is handsome and personable and on his way to reaching the top. I had a great time hiking up to X-rock with him on this gorgeous fall day. He told me all about his team winning the International Space Settlement Design competition this year. It is still a bit over my head, but I must say, I was very impressed. Thanks, Will, I can't wait to read all about you as you reach your newest goals!

Wesley's Photos

Corinne ~ Graceful Maden, as Beautiful as Her Name Suggests

2011-12-06T11:58:00.008-07:00

Being a ballerina is not an easy task to take on. Perfection is practically unreachable, at least in the eye of the beholder. Kyla and I have never danced. Well, at least in any sort of disciplined way, we dance all the time in the studio, in our living rooms, while we are out with girlfriends, or attending weddings. To commit to dancing is to take on all that comes with it; the empowerment and the critiquing. It is brave and beautiful. Corinne, you are so elegant and strong. Hopefully these photos always remind of that!

Zach ~ Goin For the Gold!

2011-12-06T11:29:00.009-07:00

Zach Lokken. Lock that name away in your brains, because it is likely you'll be hearing it again as we near the summer Olympics. This handsome, personable DHS student is leaving in January to start training for a spot on the 2012 C1 team. Not many people out west take on this interesting looking canoe that mimics the playfulness of a kayak. In fact, not many people have even heard of it, but Zach is on his way to mastering it. We were honored to photograph him this fall and we wish him all the luck in the world to reach his goal!

Wesley's Photos

Aly and Chase ~ A Durango Engagement, We'll Toast to That!

2011-12-05T14:14:00.009-07:00

Aly and Chase are planning their wedding for this upcoming summer. The creativity going into their amazing event gives us goosebumps. We are really looking forward to seeing how it all comes together. Most of what they are doing has a vintage feel to it, which seems to be popping up lately in our photography. It is so fun for us these days, more and more people are envisioning their photo shoot before the day of. It has been allowing us to use more accessories and shoot in new locations. Not only is this couple classy, fashionable and super cute, they are completely in love. What a perfect excuse to open a bottle of champagne in the middle of the day!

A Vintage Tea Party in Austin

2011-12-01T22:06:00.014-07:00

My beautiful friend Sophie Parrot moved from Durango to Austin early this past summer and took Phineas (one of Odin's best friends in the world) with her. We were sad to see them go, but happy for their new adventure. Imagine my surprise when I get a phone call from Sophie with a last minute proposal to fly me out to Austin to photograph her new business venture "The Vintage Tea Party Company." The invite came a week before the party. I was so excited at the idea, but I cried most of the week before at the thought of leaving Odin behind for two nights. Yes, I am that Mom. I have good news for Mom's like me, the preparing to leave was torturous, but the trip was amazing. I had so much fun. I slept two nights in a row for 8 hours or more each night, I indulged on a magnificent tea party, I hung out with one of my dearest friends and her lovely family and I got to see a bit of Austin. It was just enough time away to allow me to enjoy myself without missing my baby too much. A good reminder that there is a woman still left in me who is not ALL mom.

Now about Sophie and her Vintage Tea Party Company. I walked into this home that she transformed. My expectations were exceeded. I was living a dream. The kind of dream where all of your sweet tooth cravings were filled. This tea party was Willy Wanka and the Chocolate Factory meets Alice and Wonderland with a vintage flare. It was not only delicious to the taste buds but also to the eyes. If you are in Austin with a need to be spoiled in this way, get ready for a treat! You are amazing Ms. Parrot!

Making Faces ~ People's Choice Award

2011-11-28T12:33:00.013-07:00

We had a wonderful turn out of cute kiddos for our first Making Faces Photo weekend. Now it's time to vote for the people's choice awards! Awards are as follows:

1st Place: One 16x20 gallery wrapped canvas print ($465 value)
2nd Place: A family portrait session ($275 value)
3rd Place: A $50 gift certificate to Kids Rock in Durango, Colorado

Vote for your favorite by commenting on this post with the number you want to win or vote on Facebook by "liking" the image. The winners will be announce in one week on Monday December 5, 2012.

Thank you to all of our participants for making this a fun successful weekend!!!

Trevor and his sweet little teeth ~ Durango Family Photographers

2011-11-15T14:52:00.010-07:00

Trevor, you are becoming such a handsome young man! Look at those teeth coming in! Karen and Curtis have created quite the lady killer :) Check out how much he has changed since he was a newborn. We had so much fun with this adorable family before the snow flew in. The leaves were at their peak, Trevor was all smiles and we captured way too many cute shots to choose from!

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Danika the beautiful ~ Durango Senior Portrait Photographers

2011-11-12T21:15:00.006-07:00

This was such a fun photo shoot. It took place in the early fall, which seems like yesterday but was actually closer to two months ago. Yikes! When I asked Danika where she wanted to do her photo shoot she casually said something to the effect of her parents flower farm. Ummm what??? Yes please!!! Not only does this lovely family raise flowers to sell at the farmers market they also raise goats and sell goat cheese. I am in love with this property. It reminds me of sweet cottage you might find some where in Europe. Add Danika to the mix and it is like something out of a romance novel. I would go as far as to call this place "the secret garden." I am so grateful to have been lead to it!

Making Faces Weekend ~ A Holiday Gift Idea for the Procrastinator

2011-11-04T15:44:00.008-06:00

Inspired by Black Friday and last minute shoppers like ourselves, we are holding a "Making Faces" weekend (mini professional photo sessions of your kids ~ a genius gift idea for procrastinators). To launch this event, we require at least six sessions booked and we can accommodate a maximum of fifteen. Please call the studio to reserve your space. All details are below.

Durango Family Photographers ~ Vivienne at Six Months

2011-11-04T11:30:00.014-06:00

Just when we thought Vivienne couldn't get any cuter, her baby rolls appear. She was the most adorable new born . She had red hair and full lips. Now she is rockin'n big blue eyes and a ear-to-ear smile! We feel so privileged to document her first year of life. We are completely in love with this family!

Carol and Brian ~ Telluride Wedding Photographers

2011-10-14T09:44:00.010-06:00

Similar to weddings, mountain storms are unpredictable, gorgeous, and over before you know it. Carol and Brian had to make that decision that every couple fears when planning an outdoor wedding, should we move it inside? The huge clap of thunder heard throughout the entire town of Telluride about forty-five minutes before the ceremony began, proved that moving all the guests to a tiny church in town seemed much safer than spending half an hour on top of lift nine. The ceremony was wonderful, but the storm somehow never hit. Go figure. We had a great opportunity to shoot at the top of the mountain before the reception began and all the guests we able to see what brought this fabulous couple to Telluride in the first place. In the end Carol and Brian got the best of both worlds; A cute, warm, safe place to have a ceremony and the most beautiful afternoon light made for stunning photos.

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Amanda and John's Wedding in Gateway

2011-10-13T16:37:00.009-06:00

It doesn't take much to make my eyes watery. But one thing that will get me every time is seeing a groom get emotional on his wedding day. It is so genuine when a man cries. John found his darling and you can tell by seeing him with her that their wedding day was the best day of their lives. How awesome is that? We love photographing at the extraordinary Gateway Canyons Resort. If you ever get a chance to go, might be your favorite place on earth. The landscape hasn't changed much in thousands of years, but the resort is becoming more and more enchanting every time we visit. It is worth the drive to the middle of nowhere.

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Marla and Thom: A much belated post...

2011-10-13T12:32:00.019-06:00

As we mentioned before, most things between May 31st and August 31st were put on hold in our small sister business. This just tends to happen when the toughest times and the best times of your life collide within a few months of each other. Marla and Thom were married on Thursday, July 14th, one month before Jed and I tied the knot, and right around the time that Kyla and my mom left University Hospital after 45 days. We apologize for the delay in posting these images. Tom and Marla kept their wedding simple using the outdoors as their WOW decor. The day was a beautiful gathering of their friends, family and children. After months (ok years) Tom finally got his way and Marla said "I do."

Durango High School Senior: Stoney

2011-10-13T12:19:00.011-06:00

Stoney: Handsome, funny and a natural in front of the camera. What more could a photographer want?

Durango High School Senior: Megan

2011-10-06T16:29:00.011-06:00

Magen, the camera loves, loves, loves you.

Bayfield High School Senior: Teel

2011-10-06T12:07:00.015-06:00

He's handsome, athletic, and the nicest guy you'll ever meet.

Durango High School Senior: Paige

2011-10-06T12:04:00.012-06:00

Paige, you will be famous someday.

Durango High School Senior: Lexi

2011-10-06T11:58:00.018-06:00

Lexi, you heart-breaker, you.

Dolores High School Senior: Taylor

2011-10-06T11:55:00.011-06:00

Taylor, you are way too much fun!

Durango High School Senior: Lauren

2011-10-06T11:16:00.015-06:00

Lauren, you take our breath away.

Duranog High School Senior: Karlee

2011-10-06T11:02:00.012-06:00

Karlee, you are gorgeous.

Durango High School Senior: Casey

2011-10-06T10:53:00.012-06:00

Casey, you are stunning.

Eden's Garden

2011-10-06T10:17:00.007-06:00

Stacey and Geoff were married in May of 2010 and this fall they brought sweet little Eden into their world. She is six days old in these photos. Their home in Aztec is an amazing little oasis. It was close to 90 degrees outside and Eden was loving having naked baby time in their backyard. One of their four family dogs kept an eye on us the entire time to make sure she was safe and sound.

Wes and Jed's Awesome Wedding!

2011-09-27T08:00:00.057-06:00

WEDDING PHOTOS!!! We have so much gratitude for our talented an hilarious friend Chris Giles. The images below are his from our wedding... Chris, thank you, thank you, thank you for capturing these moments for us! YOU ROCK!!!

Our friends Nick and Rachel provided music for a Dance Party in the street. I must say, our dresses look fantastic in motion!!!

So serious.... yet sexy.

So us!

My Aunt Deb decorated our tables with sunflowers provided by our dear friend Krista. Thank you, thank you, thank you or all the hard work these ladies and multiple friends put in to make our day extra gorgeous!

He melts my heart :)

Evolution of Man

The Dave Logan Band, Flagstaff, AZ ROCK STARS!!!!

Lacey and Michael engagment shoot in Durango, Colorado

2011-09-23T12:44:00.008-06:00

We are so excited to photograph Lacey and Michael's wedding next summer at the Wines of the San Juan vineyard. Lacey came prepared with some great props for their engagement shoot including an old (still working) type writer and a save the date sign. Lacey and Michael are freaking adorable together. We photographed downtown making our way to Old Tymers where they met. Then we headed up to the Fort Lewis Campus. Michael reads Lacey bed time stories/ fairy tales. How cute is that??? Two peas in a pod.

Mike and Jane's Durango Wedding

2011-09-23T10:36:00.010-06:00

Ok, seriously we are putting in a request to the universe to have all weddings feel as good as this one. Mike and Jane are people that you want to spend time with. They are kind, funny and so easy to be around. Their wedding day could not have gone more smoothly. The ceremony was held at Saint Columba Church followed by a reception on family property up Animas Valley. We truly do feel lucky to document celebrations for couples who find the kind of connection that Jane and Mike have. Yes, cliche as it may sound this was a celebration of true love.

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Way over due for a catch-up!!!

2011-09-09T11:47:00.010-06:00

We have been crazy busy both personally and professionally. The summer months flew by. We know, that is the story for most everyone. We are using it as our excuse for not being caught up with blogging, and many other things: laundry, yard work, editing, socializing, etc. Here is why:

-Kyla has Odin (a 7 month old baby) We could just stop with this, but there is more...
-Our mom was in the hospital for the entire month of June. 18 days of that were spent in the ICU. We didn't know if she would make it to Wesley's wedding in August, but she did!!!
-Wesley and Jed moved back to Durango... Finally!!! It took over three weekends to make the move back and forth. The weekend they had the Budget rental moving truck it broke down in the middle of no where. Wesley and our Dad waited for 8 hours in the sun until they were finally rescued by our friend Doug.
-Wes and Jed's wedding in Silverton!!!! Yay! So much fun and lots of work! It could not have been a more perfect day. Not a dry eye during the ceremony.
-Odin turned 6 months on Wesley and Jed's Wedding day. He also started to eat solids and one week later sat up on his own. He is pretty advanced for his age.
-In between all of this going on we have also photographed some amazing people, who have truly been the most ideal clients. We have had so much fun working with them and are extremely grateful for their business.

Above and below: Odin's first solid food meal

Above 1 and below 3: Wesley and Jed's pre-wedding bachelor and bachelorette events included a boy's muddy mountain bike ride on the Hermosa Creek Trail, and a ladies brunch at the Kennebec Cafe.

Below: Jed and Wes making out at the party.

Below: Steve with Odin (Right) and Mason (Odin's BFF in town from Australia)

Below 3: Getting ready for Wesley's wedding!!! (More wedding photos to come!)

Above Photo taken by Erin Smith of ELC Images

Below: The exquisite bride Wesley!!!

Below: Family portrait of Kyla, Steve and Odin taken on Wesley and Jed's wedding day also Odin's 6th month Birthday. Photo taken by photographer Samantha Lawson

Below: A lot of Odin's friends were in town for the Wedding. Left to right Mason, Juliet and Odin loving having a picture taken together.

Odin's first day sitting up on his own!!!

Durango Wedding Photographers ~ Caitlin and Chris

2011-06-21T14:51:00.007-06:00

I was a bit nervous for this wedding, because this was the first long day I spent away from Odin. I couldn't have asked for a more compassionate couple. This crew was the prefect posy of people to kick off to our wedding season. They were such an easy going, fun-natured group. A bit of a wild bunch too, but we can appreciate that! Caitlin comes from an Irish background. She used to work at The Irish Embassy (restaurant and bar in Durango, CO) so the reception was held there. An ideal place to lend some Irish flavor. There were so many clever details to this day, but my favorite part of the entire wedding truly was the people celebrating this adorable couple. Congratulations Caitlin and Chris!!!

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Durango Family Photographers ~ Spring Hat Fashion Shoot with the Boys

2011-06-01T11:37:00.016-06:00

Michelle Campbell is such a fantastically talented lady! Her hair and make-up design are beyond superb! We always refer her when someone asks where to go for a stylist. Lately she has been so busy with business and her family it is hard to squeeze into her schedule. And it is easy to see why. Who wouldn't want to spend time with these adorable kiddos and this handsome man? Michelle made these hats in a hat making class and wanted to be photographed in them with her daughter. We decided to include the boys in the photo shoot since everyone is obviously so good-looking and photogenic.

Wesley's Photo

11 week old Odin. Durango family photographers.

2011-05-04T16:00:00.009-06:00

I can't believe my sweet baby is already 12 weeks old. These photos were taken at 11 weeks. His grandparents (Muti and Yaya) went home last Friday. They were in town for the last three weeks. We were so spoiled. Muti cooked us homemade meals every night. Desserts included!!! We miss them madly, especially Odin. Tears were shed at their departure. We have started the count down for our next visit to New Zealand. Only eight months to go! :)

Kyla's Photo

Above: Odin with Yaya

Kyla's Photo

Above: Muti's home cooking

Kyla's Photo

Odin's chubby leg... good milk!

Kyla's Photo

Kyla's Photo

Kyla's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Entertaining the ladies. A four generation photo.

Kyla's Photo

Odin preparing for rockstar status!

Spring in Colorado. Durango photographers.

2011-05-04T15:56:00.008-06:00

We have been watching and waiting for the trees in our front yard to bloom. I love the spring!!! You never know what you are going to get in Colorado. The week before last it went from sunny with pink blossoms against a blue sky to snow covered blossoms. Then just the other day I was at the hot springs and came home with a sun burn. Accidentally of course! However, one does wonder how something like soaking in the sun can feel so good and then turn into something so painful. Ahhh, the balance of life...

Kyla's Photo

Kyla's Photo

Kyla's Photo

Kyla's Photo

Kyla's Photo

Kyla's Photo

Kyla's Photo

Durango Engagement Photographers ~ Caitlin and Chris

2011-04-28T17:42:00.013-06:00

Kyla and I cannot wait for Caitlin and Chris's wedding. And we really, really, really can't wait for their reception! Caitlin worked for the Irish Embassy before she and Chris moved to Denver. They will celebrate their marriage in the pub after their ceremony. I think it is the greatest idea ever and it fits their personalities so well. These two are laid-back and carefree and up for anything that will make them laugh. We couldn't ask for a better couple to help us kick off the summer wedding season! Thanks to the Rochester Hotel and There's No Place Like Home for letting us play on your property!

Wesley's Photo

Durango Baby Photographers ~ Vivienne Has Arrived!

2011-04-26T17:20:00.018-06:00

Is it to early to be fixing Odin up with girls? Vivienne is the most adorable little strawberry-blond baby with the sweetest parents. How could we not want Odin to marry her? Okay, that's a bit much, maybe we should start with dating. No? How about a play date? See how beautiful she is for yourself, then you will agree :)

Wesley's Photo

Nicole and Jeff found out that they would be having a little girl on Christmas. Good friends of theirs wrapped up this pink tutu and gave it to them as a gift. It fits her perfectly at 12 days old!

Wesley's Photo

Tacoma Maternity Photographers ~ Pretty Britty and her Bumb

2011-04-11T14:23:00.028-06:00

I met Brit on the very first day of my freshman year in college. We both lived on the 7th floor and took to each other right away. By our sophomore year, we were hooked at the hip. We rode our bikes, learned to rock climb, and decided to study abroad in New Zealand. She and I have been house mates, bridesmaids, confidants and best friends to each other ever since. She is the most lovely person I know with the greatest sense of style, best sense of humor and most positive attitude on life. It breaks my heart that we are so far apart, especially since we always talked about raising babies next door to each other. But I am so glad for the opportunity to visit her and Hunter (her amazing husband and fantastic friend of mine) during her 38th week of pregnancy. Here she is in full bloom, looking as fabulous as ever!

Love,
Wes

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Not only can Brit pull of super cute pumps, she can still hike like a champ! I will strive to have energy like hers, pregnant or not, for the rest of my life!

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Denver Family Photographer ~ Harper is Almost One!

2011-04-04T12:59:00.007-06:00

Harper is turning one year old this month. She is in her point and giggle phase. And she is currently rocking a bang mohawk! I love it! Her parents, Steve and Beth, are good friends of ours. Steve and Jed went to high school together and have stayed in touch ever since. I have been really excited to take photos of Harper since before she was born. However, I didn't know back then that she was going to be this adorable. This little girl is all smiles, all the time. Of course, it's not hard to be happy when both your parents are constantly singing and dancing with you while sneaking kisses on your cheeks. What an amazing family!

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Durango Family Photographers ~ Treavor

2011-03-28T12:40:00.007-06:00

Karen and Kyla had the exact same due date. Odin came four days early, Trevor was two weeks late! Stubborn little fella! He made a good decision to bake for as long as he could, because look at him now! He is so good looking. And he is in such a wonderful mood almost always. When Karen arrived for his photo shoot, he was sleeping. He woke up within a couple minutes and never fell back asleep. No sleepy baby shots here, Trevor is making eye contact with the camera in every shot, except for when he was preoccupied smelling the tulips. A very observant infant.

Wesley's photo

Wesley's photo

Wesley's photo

Wesley's photo

Wesley's photo

Durango Maternity Photographers ~ The Pre-Hunter Days

2011-03-28T12:16:00.007-06:00

Allison and Jeff were wonderful wedding clients of ours in 2009. They are due to have Hunter in about a month. Kyla and I absolutely adore these two. They have been together for years and one can tell from a distance that they are best friends. Hunter is a lucky little boy to be joining this family!

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Durango Family Photographers ~ Ode to Odin

2011-03-11T14:57:00.010-07:00

Sometimes I'm overwhelmed with nostalgia. I am already looking at these photos and thinking, he's not that tiny anymore. I feel so blessed to have spent the last month of Kyla and Steve's pre-parenthood days with them preparing for Odin to arrive, to have witnessed Odin's birth, and to have gotten to know him for the first ten days of his life, and now I painfully miss him. I miss the shape of his ears and how he already makes intense eye-contact. I even miss imagining that he is screaming "not the Momma" and banging me on the head with a frying pan while I comfort him until Kyla is done brushing her teeth. There is a huge part of me that doesn't want to miss a blink of his life. And I suppose that is why we have our cameras in hand.

Kyla's Photo

Kyla's Photo

Wesley's Photos

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo
Note to self: Babies are never done pooping.

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Durango Family Photographers ~ The Most Photographed Baby

2011-02-23T08:39:00.006-07:00

I traveled back to Denver yesterday to spend some much needed time with my fiancé, Jed. We have been apart since Kyla first went on bed rest, about six weeks ago, with only a few short visits in between. It is nice being home with him, and our dogs and our house, but the first thing I thought about this morning was Kyla, Steve and Odin. So instead of making breakfast right away, I am blogging some of the photos we took this past weekend. He is just the most adorable bundle of love that exists. There are sooooo many more photos, but it is hard to get through them all. He will be the most photographed baby on the planet, I'm sure of it!

~love Wes

Durango Family Photographers ~ He's Here! Mr. Odin William Jenkinson

2011-02-18T14:43:00.015-07:00

I never knew. Childbirth is the most amazing process in all existence. And until I saw it first hand, it didn't matter how many times I heard how incredible it is. So I'm not sure that I can express fully what I have been feeling since Kyla's water broke on Sunday morning. We were blessed that the laboring process started after a full night's sleep. February 13th turned out to be more like a spring day than expected. Kyla, Steve, and I plus all three dogs went for a walk to get things going a bit more. When a contraction would come on, Steve would get down on his hands and knees and Kyla would lean on his back. I tried keeping the dogs away from their faces, but Hank felt the need to stand guard. Odin William Jenkinson arrived 12 hours and 20 minutes later. Weighing in at 8 pounds 9 ounces. We are soooooo in love!

Wesley's photo

Wesley's photo

Wesley's photo

Steve's photo

Wesley's photo

Wesley's photo

Wesley's photo

Wesley's photo

Wesley's photo

Kyla's photo

Wesley's photo

Durango Maternity Photographer ~ Ciao Baby!

2011-02-11T16:41:00.007-07:00

Nicole and Jeff still have six or seven weeks before their baby girl arrives, but Nicole's belly is looking so cute it is hard to resist taking photos. Nicole brought an apple for one of her props since that has been one of her most recent cravings. Jeff wrote a note to their daughter on Nicole's bump, "CIAO BABY", something they tell her all the time. I love it. What awesome parents Baby Perino chose!

Wesley's Photos

Durango Family Photographers ~ Welcome Isla

2011-01-31T13:59:00.015-07:00

Isla just turned four weeks old. She's gorgeous! Look at those lips! And I can't get enough of her tiny, little hands. Her parents are awesome. They are kind, athletic and quite the handsome couple. We definitely know where Isla gets her good looks!

Wesley's Photos

Durango Commercial Photographers ~ Edie and her curls!

2011-01-29T12:59:00.006-07:00

Edie is one of our models for Southwest Smiles, a local dentist office run by Dr. Will Lacey. When she arrived at the studio, I definitely noticed her beautiful smile, but I couldn't take my eyes off her curls . Edie participated wholeheartedly and let her mom hang her upside down and tickle her so we could get the "real deal" grins. I pulled out some markers later on in the shoot and let her draw the Grinch (her favorite movie character) on the floor of the back drop. Edie's mom, Jill, and I started chatting and the next words out of Jill's mouth were, "did you just put that in your mouth?". I turned back around to see black Magic Marker absorbed in Edie's white teeth. Jill and I laughed, the photo shoot had come to an end! That's a wrap, well played, Edie!

Wesley's Photos

Durango Family Photographers ~ The Kapustka's Visit the Studio

2011-01-27T16:13:00.009-07:00

We just can't get enough of this family. And there is no question why. Look at how adorable they are. Noah and Rachel laugh alike. Heads thrown back, holding nothing in. Just laughing out loud absorbing all the bliss that comes with it!

Durango Family Photographers ~ Yo Yoga Mamas!!!

2011-01-26T13:53:00.012-07:00

YOGADURANGO'S very own Sheryl McGourty teaches prenatal yoga on Monday nights at their Main Avenue location. Up until just a few weeks ago Kyla was attending regularly. I came by to take some photos and was thrilled to see so many healthy women with a full range of baby bumps! Everyone stayed after class for a group shot of all the bellies lined up from almost due to barley showing.

Wesley's Photos

Durango Maternity Photographer ~ Babies Bloom and Sisters Rock!

2011-01-20T16:37:00.006-07:00

Everyday, little baby Jenkinson grows a bit more. Kyla is as gorgeous as ever! She's been given strict orders to lay low and keep baking the muffin. A few nights ago we photographed her belly with this bloom rock gifted from our Grams. Freaking adorable! It's hard to believe that in just days or weeks, we will have four generations in our family. Can't wait until that photo shoot!

Wesley's Photos

Durango Family Portrait Photographer ~ The Verow Family

2010-12-17T14:05:00.004-07:00

I am enjoying catching up on blogging, though I have been doing it a bit out of order. Anyway, I just love this family and their story to becoming a family of four. After much anticipation to get their family started the Verow's were finally blessed with a beautiful baby boy. Not long after our first photo shoot together I saw them pushing a stroller with a baby girl in it. Come to find out little Naomi wasn't far behind her brother and came as most wonderful and completely unexpected surprise. She is a little spark plug. She does not have any problem keeping up with her big brother. We spent a lovely afternoon together being silly and playing in the leaves.

Durango Family Portrait Photographer ~ Noah Bear

2010-12-15T17:26:00.006-07:00

My favorite little Noah Bear turned one on December fifth. I cannot believe it has been a year since his birth. Below are images from his ten month fall photo shoot, and some photos from his first birthday party. I think these photos speak for themselves.

Above: Noah on his way to the bathroom for a clean-up after his birthday cake feast.

Durango Family Portrait Photographer ~ Little Finn

2010-12-11T19:30:00.007-07:00

My girlfriend Sophie and I had the pleasure of being pregnant together for a few months. Three days after we made plans for her maturity photo shoot little Finn was born almost seven weeks early. To finally have him in the studio two months after his birth at an average baby weight of just over seven pounds was a complete joy. To start we snuggled him into a hand-knitted sweet pea suit that I recently received at my baby shower. We mopped up a few different tinkles and managed to get a crying baby to a sleeping baby in not much time at all. I am so tickled for Sophie and Preston, and want to send out my congratulations on a precious growing boy. I cannot wait for our babies to meet in person.

Senior Portrait Photographer ~ Catching Up

2010-12-01T13:54:00.015-07:00

Kyla has been the busiest pregnant lady I have ever known, and I am living like a retired house wife in Denver. This somehow does not seem fair. But the truth is, we have not mastered me living and working 329.95 miles away. I have not been around to take on things like editing, retouching, ordering-placing, blogging, etc. And Kyla is stuck with all of the above including shooting, bookkeeping, e-mailing, phone-answering, and good ol' customer servicing. Since I passed through Durango over Thanksgiving, I grabbed the files of the most recently photographed Seniors. It's the short and sweet version, but it should give you all a good idea of what my most incredibly talented sister has been up to while carrying around a baby resembling a two-and-a-half pound chuck roast in her belly (that's right, it's no longer a cantaloupe).

And for giggles... Kyla's first photographed high school senior, yours truly, ME... Miss Wesley Anne Jackson!

Halloween Fundraiser for the Miricle Mama

2010-11-24T17:40:00.006-07:00

To add to the recent Beau and Jenna engagement post I thought I should follow up with what happened later that evening... Beau's Mom, Lois, along with a collection of teacher friends that my Mom used to work with held a Halloween Fund Raiser to help with my Mom's travel back and forth to Denver. My parents have had to make a trip to the University Hospital in Denver every two weeks since she got home in June after her Bone Marrow Transplant. As a whole the La Plata community has been amazingly generous in helping with expenses. This was yet another unexpected and fun way to celebrate a cancer-free-recovering-ALIVE Mom. Thank you all!

Above: A happy Judi Jackson!

Above: Overall of decorated Lion's Hall in Bayfield, CO.

Above: The usual suspects/supports: Rachel: The Bad Witch, Noah: The Lion, Carson: Prom Queen, Nick: The Tinman, Steve: The Scarecrow

Above photo taken by Carson Jones: Rachel: The Bad Witch, Noah: The Lion, Kyla: Pregnant Disco Dorthy, Nick: The Tin-man, Steve: The Scarecrow

Above: Chris and Lois aka Party Hosts

Above: Jenna (transformed from her earlier photo shoot) and Erin (long time BFF and Beau's Sister)

Above: Erin and Kyla err-a I mean Pregnant Disco Dorthy thanks to the work of the Scarecrow

Jim Jackson aka Dad in clown suit. The most I think he has ever dressed up for Halloween. A little creepy, I know. I didn't even recognize him at first even though I knew he was going as a clown. The Chacos gave it away!

Judi and Jim Jackson

Durango Engagement Photographer ~Beau and Jenna

2010-11-24T17:10:00.009-07:00

Behind on blogging again, but I am jumping ahead of a few other clients that I that I am looking forward to blogging soon, because I am so excited for the recently engaged Beau and Jenna!!! Beau's and my family have been friends since we were young, so we had the pleasure of growing up together. Jenna is the perfect spark to add to Beau’s palette. They are simply adorable together. Jenna requested that we take their engagement photos at Sutcliffe Vineyards. They are friends with John Sutcliffe and were warmly welcomed with a wine tasting. We wondered around the vineyard enjoying the most perfect fall afternoon at which point I decided that I will be switching careers from “photographer” to “wine maker.” I will be living on this property or one similar to this. That is the latest goal anyway.

Durango Maternity Photographer ~ Steph and Nolan

2010-10-27T15:05:00.008-06:00

My beautiful, pregnant girlfriend Stephanie brought her son Nolan to the studio to take pictures of the the two of them and Nolan's baby bump brother. Nolan is so cute he is borderline eatable, and Steph has the pregnant figure of a Goddess. I can't wait to meet that precious baby boy inside the belly!!!

Beau and Steph's Telluride Wedding Weekend

2010-10-25T15:55:00.010-06:00

We looked forward to meeting Beau and Steph all summer. After many phone conversations, e-mails and website-stalking of each other we finally met in person on Friday September 24, 2010. We spent our first hour together taking couple portraits in downtown Telluride. Following that we met their guests for a western style BBQ at the Ah-Haa School of Arts. This was such a fantastically organized crew, which makes the wedding day much more enjoyable for everyone especially when a large wedding party is involved. The wedding day was a mixture of laughter and tears all in celebration of this lovely couple. Well played.

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Below: Bridesmaids shielding Steph when the Groomen's van arrives.

Wesley's Photo: Groomsmen assisting blindfolded Beau to his place of hiding.

Durango Senior Portrait Photographer ~ Jacqueline

2010-10-21T15:41:00.006-06:00

I loved this photo session! Jacqueline lives up to her name in that she is unique in grace and style. There were so many images that I loved of her. Many of her expressions were simply romantic, like she just emerged out of a novel.

Bayfield Senior Portrait Photographer ~ Kylie

2010-10-19T16:10:00.009-06:00

I had the pleasure of photographing Kylie a few weeks ago. She came in the studio today to see her photos for the first time and I think was a bit surprised, because she was a little nervous during our shoot together, and I think it is hard to feel like you photographed well when you are nervous. Truth be told, it is rare when someone is not nervous during a photo shoot. It is awkward having someone point a camera at you. The pressure to look your best and believe that you are looking good is difficult. So, Kylie, well done! You photographed beautifully!

Silverton Wedding Photographers ~ Nicole and Alex

2010-10-07T12:37:00.021-06:00

Alex and Nicole were married on September 19, 2010 in Silverton on THE peak fall color day! Surprise, surprise we are behind on blogging... but now that you know, Kyla is mego prego and Wesley is pre-occupied hiking the Grand Canyon as well as planning her own wedding so if someone could help us add more hours to the day we would sure appreciate it! We know, no excuses, this lovely couple deserves their time in the spot light! Kyla and Hailey King photographed this wedding together. The day was absoultuly stunning. The wedding party more than amazing to work with and the couple completely in love. AWESOME all around. Congratulations Alex and Nicole!!!

Kyla and the Cantaloupe

2010-10-02T14:44:00.006-06:00

We are halfway there. Yay! 20 weeks in and still counting. This week we read that the baby is the size of a cantaloupe. A hungry cantaloupe. In another 20 weeks we will no longer have to compare our baby to the size of fruit, but for now it is kinda fun. Wesley helped us celebrate the halfway mark by taking some photos of me. Our first official documentation of the pregnancy. We have kept this one on the low for as long as possible. Last year Steve and I experienced a miscarriage. Heartbreaking. This time around we kept things a bit more intimate to start out with. Now, however my belly is looking more and more like I swallowed a whole cantaloupe and less like a beer belly. So out with it, we are pregnant. :)

This would explain a few things:
1. We have had no social life. Mainly because all of my energy goes to eating, sleeping and working. There is nothing left over. I've been warned this may not change for awhile. Yikes!
2. On numerous occasions I have had to nap for an entire day after shooting a wedding.
3. I seem to have lost the ability to multitask.
4. I am hungry all the time and nothing ever sounds good.

The good news is:
1. I cannot explain in words the depth of love that I feel right now for my amazing husband Steve. I truly could not have picked a better partner for to create a family with. He has been extremely supportive and excited through this process.
2. I feel a very similar love for the unborn baby that is growing inside of me now. I am really excited to see what he/she looks like, but I kinda like that it is in a safe place where I can monitor it and compare it to fruit.
3. I am currently the only one that can feel the baby kick. :)
4. This is the first grand baby and great grand baby on my side of the family.
5. Wesley is going to be an Auntie. YAY!!! She too has been extremely supportive and understanding at my lack of energy lately. Taking the reigns. Love her!

Durango Wedding Photographers: Beth and Ian

2010-09-29T17:00:00.015-06:00

Beth and Ian called us after we had already booked a wedding for their date. Beth had heard our names over and over again and felt that no matter what, we would be the best fit for their wedding photographers. Kyla and I hardly ever split up on wedding days, but we thought we would make an exception. Kyla drove to Silverton to photograph a different wedding and Chris Giles assisted me with Beth and Ian's celebration. They had a beautiful ceremony on Beth's parents property and danced the night away at the Kennebec Cafe.

Durango and Destinatin Wedding Photographer ~ Shannon and Graham

2010-09-27T13:10:00.009-06:00

We are behind on blogging. :) Shannon and Graham's wedding took place on September 18, 2010. They are smart and stunning couple with an eye for style. Shannon's dress was absolutely brilliant on her. I loved the dress's delicate and detailed straps. The wedding was held at Blue Lake's Ridgewood Event Center . The talented April's Garden put together the flowers. Michelle Campbell did the hair and make-up and the Kennebec prepared the food. Indeed a flawless and immaculate wedding.

Photo Divine ~ Jane Style

2010-09-20T13:31:00.024-06:00

Jane's story is beautiful. She has always danced. She still dances. Now she has two daughters who also dance, but are too young to understand what ballet means to their mom. Jane came to us freeze time. She wanted these photos for herself to remember her youth and her grace. She also wanted them for her daughters. She expressed to us how much she would cherish a photograph of her own mother: youthful, hair down, in her element. To us, this is the greatest gift she could ever give her daughters. We admire Jane's foresight and are inspired once again!!!

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Durango Senior Portrait Photographer ~ Victoria

2010-09-17T12:28:00.013-06:00

This lovely lady added a little spice to my life during our time photographing together. Victoria had just the right amount of attitude to pull off a variety of looks, and she really is just as sweet as they come! You are a beautiful woman, Victoria! Thanks for the rad shoot!

Durango Senior Portrait Photographer ~ Sarah

2010-09-14T18:11:00.020-06:00

After e-mailing and playing phone tag with Sarah, we finally confirmed a date and time for her senior portraits. We met me in the studio to start our afternoon adventures together. We roamed around down town Durango and ended up at her family ranch. This gal is full of sass and was open to all sorts of different photo suggestions. And her sweet "puppy" is actually a full grown dog. I love dogs that look like puppies for a life time. I kinda wanted to put this one in my pocket, but I don't think I would have gotten away with it.

Bayfield senior portrait photographer ~ Tessa

2010-09-14T16:15:00.020-06:00

Tessa is a natural beauty, so it does not come as a surprise that she felt most comfortable taking her senior portraits outside. Our goal: to find sunflowers. She is on the flag team, so her flag ended up in some photos as a prop. She made some killer moves with it, but the wind was not in her favor. I was particularly attracted to her jellyfish tattoo that wound it's way around her calf. It takes serious dedication to create such a memoir and it is a very good fit for the story that goes with it.

Durango Family Portrait Photographer ~ An afternoon with the Fultons

2010-09-04T19:08:00.004-06:00

Wednesday I spent some time enjoying the great outdoors with the Fulton Family. Last year I photographed Rica's senior portraits. So, before sending their daughter off to college a decision was made to make time for some family portraits. The most nonchalant poser of the afternoon was their youngest dog, who could not make up his mind whether to be in or out of each picture. Entertaining to say the least. :)

Senior Portrait Photographer ~ Meg's Senior Portraits

2010-09-01T13:47:00.003-06:00

Meg was such a doll to work with. She has a naturally jovial personality, so I was a bit surprised and delighted by the variety of expressions she showed the camera. I love photographing high school seniors! I feel honored to document this transitional time in life one's life. Congratulations on entering your last year of High School Meg!

Durango Wedding Photographers: Lori and Jake

2010-08-26T16:22:00.026-06:00

Lori and Jake's wedding celebration was on August 14th at Boyce Lake and Purgatory Lodge. We absolutely loved working with these two. I can't imagine any two people more in love (except for Jed and I, and Kyla and Steve of course ;) My favorite part of the day was when Lori said to Jake, "I'm marrying you today because I want to feel this way for the rest of my life." Ohhhh, it gives me goosebumps!!!

Cindy at Wildwoods did an incredible job with the flowers and our dear friend Rolando with Twelfth Night DJ played his last wedding in Durango :( But check him out if you are getting married in the Chicago area! We'll miss you Rolando, YOU ROCK!!

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Photo

Wesley's Turn

2010-08-24T08:37:00.010-06:00

Wesley and Jed's photo

On Wednesday last week, Jed found out that he had two days off. It took us an hour and a half to pack our bikes and camping gear and head to the hills. We drove up Guenella Pass, which is just outside of Grant, CO. Six miles up the road we pulled over and started riding. We spent most of the up-hill climb pushing our bikes, but the scenery replaced the frustration so we hadn't a care in the world. We reached an alpine meadow and took a break to explore old mining cabins. As we were gathering our bike gear, Jed began to fumble around in his backpack. I was preoccupied with breaking my sunglasses and didn't notice what he pull out of the bag. Before I knew it we were holding each other and he was shaking so bad that he couldn't figure out which hand to put the ring on. Our dogs started howling to confirm that they approved and we finished the best bike ride of both our lives. That evening we drove to the end of the road and took the panoramic shot of, what now in my mind, is the best place ever!!!

Ryanne, his lovely and unbelievably talented sister made the ring featured here. The stone in the middle is from an earring she gave me several Christmas's ago that my dear friend, Brit lost down the sink of our old house in Flagstaff. I loved those earrings so much that Ryanne turned it into my very own engagement ring! She and Jed added a couple of brown diamonds to the sides and the negative space in the band makes two hearts (a happy accident:) )

Wesley's Photo