Rikki Rivera | Photographer » Wedding & Portrait Photography

Sweet Miss Jessie hung out with her dad and I at their home in Gig Harbor. We had a terrific time enjoying the late afternoon sun and being near the water. I love how my sessions with kids start out a little shy, and within no time at all, they’re working for my camera without any needed direction. I love it!

I love that Mike has such a laid back style despite his demanding, busy job. His attempts to brush Jessie’s hair before our session were too cute, and reminded me of my dad doing my hair before school in the morning ;).

Gorgeous views!

As we were finishing up, Jessie asked me if I could take more pictures of her jumping off the driftwood again :). Absolutely kiddo!

Thank you Mike and Jessie for a lovely afternoon! I hope you enjoy your photos :).

This past weekend we hit the outdoors with a vengeance. We adventured out to our first camping trip of the year – our second ever. We went last year, to Palouse Falls, but never by ourselves before. I set up and took down my first tent, spent two nights with my babies outdoors, and entertained a couple friends who later came by to keep us company.

Kitsap Memorial State Park isn’t a big park by any means, but it’s wonderful when there aren’t many people to share it with. We were one of many half a dozen groups. The second night welcomed a bigger group with a fairly large, impressive setup. They brought friends for my boy to play with, and turned an intimate family outing, into more of a friendly get-together. We split our weekend both ways, and it was just what we needed.

I’m not native to Washington. I’ve lived here about 5 1/2 years now, and one of the biggest differences between here and the South, is hospitality. It just isn’t the same. So when we explored the campground and ran into people we’ve never met before, I was humbled by everyone’s kindness, openness, and hospitality. Sharing conversation about our good-looking pups, inviting us to share s’mores, and helping us as needed. I haven’t come across anyone like that since I left Florida. You just don’t get that in the city.

I’m hooked. I already can’t wait for our next trip. You ready to go? Hit me up!

There were quite a few favorite images, I hope you enjoy!

Meet the Sodeman and Jones family. I met the eldest daughter, Kim, along with her husband, Cody, and son, Colton, last year (view their session here). So when she contacted me to photograph her whole family, I was beyond thrilled. Her younger sister was in town from Aspen, so it was a perfect time for them. I truly love the challenge of large groups too! Not to mention, during the week we were getting the gorgeous sunny weather, and on the weekends, Washington gave us its usual overcast. On this specific day, it was so very windy, and posed an even greater challenge with these ladies gorgeous long brown hair – but I think we made it work pretty well :).

Mom and dad – Wendy and Earl – are one of the most beautiful couple I’ve ever met. Despite three grown daughters and an adorable grandson, their love shines through in the most intimate, beautiful, amazing ways. It was such a pleasure to capture them together. I could take pictures of them everyday!

I’m so thrilled with this session – so much variety! Aside from a few not-so-perfect elements, it was a blast to capture this family. I truly hope to work with them again, and see little Colton again ;).