"What greater thing is there for human souls than to feel that they are joined for life - to be with each other in silent unspeakable memories."

George Eliot

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My name is Jennifer Mendoza Stanelle. I photograph families, from newborns to great, great grandparents.

My goal is to create a portrait with you that captures where your family is in this moment in time, whether that is diapers, little league, braces, or beyond. My photographs are about you.

Visit my Portfolio pages for samples of my work. Keep in mind that if you choose to work with me, your photos will not be reproductions of what you see there. Your portraits will be as unique as your family. Just like you, my work is always evolving.

Follow me here on the blog (posts are below). You can also join me on Facebook or Twitter. In addition to photography, I am interested in being the best wife, mom, sister, friend, daughter and member of my community - locally and globally - I can be. I don't claim to be superwoman, by any means. It's a crazy juggling act in which I'm doing the best I can. Occasionally, I will blog about things that relate to those topics as well.

And to answer one of the questions I get asked most: You can call me Jen, Jenny, Jennifer, Mendoza or Stanelle. I get and respond to them all!

Photos of me by Elle Photography.

Intensity

Posted on April 29, 2009

Forgive me, this one’s a little long.

It should go without saying, but I love this kid.

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She does everything with passion – draw, sing, laugh, cry, scream, listen, love, rage. She can be tough to parent. TOUGH. TOOOOUUUUGGGGHHHH. I’m so grateful that she’s bright and healthy, and I don’t have to deal with any challenges related to that. But, still, I think it’s fair to say that she can push me to my limits. I haven’t read it, but this book title captures just how CM makes me feel at times (unfortunately, I don’t have time to read it)! But, oh God, when I step back and watch her…or look at the photos of her…she takes my breath away.

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Sorry if this is a few too many pictures. This has been a difficult week. I’m taking a cue from my old Childbirth class by going to my quiet place and focusing on a picture (or many) that makes me happy.

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She is so like her dad in many ways. Same taste buds, mischievousness, curiosity, and, yes, intensity.  They are two of the most stubborn and persistent, and least likely to forget ANYTHING, people I’ve come across. You should see them lock horns. I seriously fear for the teen years. I guess the similarity is why I love them both so much.

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I’m so curious to see how VC will fit into the picture as her personality develops.

Thanks for indulging me…I’m off to Atlanta for B&J’s wedding. I love this couple, love the location (it happens to be where my own wedding reception was!) and I can’t wait to share some pictures from it when I get back.



Leave a Comment

2 Comments so far

  • Allison G says:
    April 30, 2009 at 2:39 am - Reply

    Hi Jen!

    Aw, I know what you mean about a kid who does everything with passion. My first was Mr. Mellow, sweet, innocent, EASY. My second is my wild thing/drama/passion guy. Wow, you are right… it can be so tough!

    But, you know what? Later in life, those things will probably serve her well. She’ll be spunky, brave and a natural leader. It’s just tough on the mommies while they are growing up, though!!!

    She is a doll! Great pics!!

    Allison

  • Amanda F. says:
    May 6, 2009 at 10:36 pm - Reply

    Love this post! I miss the girls a ton! I wish I could have seen them and you this past weekend but it was good to see T and his dad! Better see ya’ll soon! I’m thinking another trip to Jacksonville this summer with Gina and Holly again!









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