Her history in this house runs deep.

a cover shoot with Marilyn for Stroll Country Club, Lincoln, NE

Old black and white photographs spread out on a wooden table surface.

Her parents were married in 1935


In the most adorable bungalow that is very much all original, Marilyn's parents were married in the living room. And Marilyn who is in her mid 80's has lived here all her life (except for a short stint to get married) and still sleeps in her childhood bedroom. The floors creak, it has a quirky layout, and I'm sure it has climate control issues at times but it is charming. I was so delighted to photograph this sweet, tiny lady in her home and hear her stories. I could sit for hours. Every little trinket in her home had a story to tell - from her Grandmother's porcelain glove box (which weighs about 5 pounds!) to her Mother's dressing table.

She was nervous, I could tell


Like most people who aren't accustomed to having their portrait taken, Marilyn had some nerves. She carefully planned her outfit, meticulously cleaned her house in preparation. But I talked her off the ledge - put on some Glenn Miller and her stress began to melt away. I helped her feel confident and guided her through - and it brings a smile to my face remembering the words she just kept repeating throughout our entire session.... "This is SO fun!!"

Black and white portraits showing someone in a white sweater sitting by a window.
Antique wooden dresser with mirror and vintage photographs displayed on top.
Bedroom interior with white curtains and dark wooden four-poster bed frame.
Panoramic view of a bright room with hardwood floors and decorative wall hangings.
Series of angled shots showing a wooden table and floor in a bright interior space.
A series of photos showing a green couch against a wallpapered wall with framed artwork.
Someone in a white sweater and dark pants sitting on a teal couch in a room with patterned wallpaper.
View of a red house's front entrance with brick steps and stone accents.
Red house exterior showing brick steps and stone pillars leading to the front porch.
Panoramic view of a bedroom with white walls and floral accents.
Panoramic view of a cozy living room interior with wooden trim and natural lighting.
Wide angle shot of a living space with wooden furniture and a patterned wall tapestry.
Room interior showing dark blue carpeting and wooden dining furniture.
Close-up view of hands smoothing a white quilted bedspread with floral patterns.
Detailed shot of hands touching a quilted floral pattern in pink and green.

I'm forever changed


What I loved most about photographing Marilyn was her openness to the whole experience. Her passion to tell me about her family and all the history it holds and her willingness and trust to follow my direction. Such a dream.