Virtual NYC Marathon

In the midst of a busy fall family photo season I had the chance to take pictures of something really fun and unique, a virtual marathon. Courtney got my name from another photographer and luckily I was available on the day she would be running and I was familiar with the course location, around Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids. I was so impressed with the organization and creativity of this event, and of course impressed with Courtney and Jeff running so many miles in the first snow of the year! Here are some of my favorite photos from that day.

Children's March

Another great event in support of Black Lives Matter happened in my city last weekend and this time it was focused on children. Despite the heat and humidity (even at 10am) there was a great turnout of families for the short march and many of them stuck around for the dance party, crafts, and snacks at the end! I love that this event can be a conversation starter for parents and their kids and it was so great seeing all their homemade signs. I personally don’t have kids but I love them and I wanted to be part of this event so I volunteered to be their photographer :) Here are some of my favorite images.

Black Lives Matter Protest

Last weekend I attended a rally/ march in support of Black Lives Matter. I used to be very hesitant to speak up and show up for causes even if they mattered to me, but I no longer feel comfortable staying home and staying silent. I have also always had a passion for photojournalism and I wanted to document what has been happening in my city. So I listened, I marched, and i took pictures. These are some of my favorites.

YMCA Dance Recital

For the last three years I have been a participant in the YMCA’s annual spring dance recital and though I was not a dancer this year I was still asked to attend the dress rehearsal and take some photos of the kids on stage! Little kids dancing on stage are so cute and I love watching the results of their hard work. Plus, the instructors deserve so much credit for not only choreographing and teaching the kids but also creating their own dance which they showcased at the end of the program. Here are some of my favorite photos from the dress rehearsal day!

Mary & Aaron's 1970's Party

My friend Mary and Aaron started a tradition last year of hosting an annual theme party and I’m so grateful they’ve asked me to photograph the event. This year’s theme was the 1970’s and though it was a smaller crowd everyone seemed to have fun playing games and eating foods that were popular in the 70’s. Here are some of my favorite photos from the day!