I really love doing family photos, but historically the one family that is by far the hardest to photograph is my own. Not only because I have to be in some, but because people tend to have absolutely no problem complaining to other family members. That said, this one went really smoothly - which was awesome. I just wish I could have had my whole family there (missing my younger brother and his family). That said, these people are some of the most important in my life, and I am excited to share these with you all.

Jeff and Nicola's Spring Engagement Near CDA

They met on Match.com. This isn't surprising these days, as almost everyone seems to meet online. I asked them what attracted them to each other's online profiles and I got an answer I hear a lot - the person looked "real" on the other end. In other words, they didn't look like the other person was trying to be fake, or put their best foot forward, they were just being themselves.

Michael & Katie's Winter Tubbs Hill Engagement

Just like so many couples these days, Michael and Katie met because they both swiped right. In fact, when we met for their engagement shoot, we were only a couple days before their "swipaversary" - Mike likes dates. Anyway, it's been almost exactly 2 years since they both swiped right and had their lives changed forever.

Winter Coeur d'Alene Resort Wedding - Lucas and Kellee

There is something that should stand out to you as you look through these photographs. I know it stood out to me as I edited them. These two love to smile. They love to laugh. From the bridal party photos with their friends, to the ceremony when they shared their vows, to the portraits of both of them, they are smiling, laughing, and clearly in love. This is even more notable as we were dealing with winds of up to 45 miles per hour, heavy rain, and temperatures in the 30’s. Lucas and Kellee were cold out there, yes they shine through anyway. It’s absolutely beautiful and their warmth shines through on such a cold and dramatic day (weather wise). I’m so excited to share these with you, and I hope you love them as much as I loved taking them. What a beautiful wedding at the Coeur d’Alene Resort.

Nora at Coeur d'Alene Beach in the Fall

I can’t decide if this was the third or fourth time i’ve had the chance to photograph Nora, but each and every time has been a blessing. The things i’m seeing now as she has gotten older (almost 11!) is the women peeking out from inside. She has a mix of playful girl and spunky teenager in her and it’s a lot of fun to see both. Here are some photos from our recent shoot together, showing off a little of both sides.

CDA Senior Photographer: Kenedie Witherow's Senior Photos

A couple years ago I had the chance to meet Kenedie’s brother when I did his senior photos. But she wasn’t here, so going into the shoot all I knew was that Kenedie loved volleyball. Turns out, she doesn’t just love volleyball, but she is also kind, easy to talk to, and has a bright smile - when she’ll show it to me. I absolutely love how these senior photos turned out, from the range we got, to the outfits, to the locations, it was all beautiful and Kenedie made things so easy. I’m excited to share these!

The Blog

Brent Looyenga is a Spokane wedding photographer based IN SPOKANE WASHINGTON and Coeur d’Alene Idaho area. He loves people and specializes in wedding, engagement, family and senior photography. You can like Looyenga Photography on Facebook or follow them on Instagram.