Salt River Archives - Melodee Lynn Photography

This Salt River Maternity session gives me all the feels and squeals. Not only was the light enchanting, but the subjects just happen to be my favorite people in the whole world, my sister and brother-in-law.

You guys, I don’t think I’ve ever had a session where the photos speak for themselves. I’m staring my computer screen feeling so giddy and wondering just what exactly I should say. And then my eyes glance down and meet my sister’s piercing blue eyes and I think, oh my gosh, I’m obsessed.

This is my sister.

The most selfless, kind hearted and beautiful person I know and she’s having a little girl! A little girl to inherit her laughter, her ginormous heart and her thoughtfulness. Oh Mary Grace, you didn’t just luck out with the best mom in the world, you have the best dad too! If you know Ralf, you know he has a heart of gold. He possess patience and gentleness that seems so rare today.

Sis, do you remember that one Sunday morning, you were sitting in the middle section about 6 rows from the back of the auditorium? Your head was down and tears were in your eyes because you were terrified and excited about where God was leading you. Terrified because you knew change was coming, excited because you knew change was coming. And we prayed together. It was then that God was preparing your heart for the incredible journey you would go on to meet Ralf.

And it wasn’t long after that morning that you met him.

And it wasn’t long after that until he was taking you for street tacos.

And it wasn’t long after that until he was down on one knee on those tennis courts.

And it wasn’t long after that until you were walking down the aisle.

And now it won’t be long (hopefully a week from today) when you’ll welcome your baby girl into the world.

You’ll be able to look back and see how the Lord has been so good. How he has directed your steps and led you to this time and this place.

Sis and Ralf,

I saw the joy that radiated from you on your wedding day. It was contagious. But it’s nothing compared to what I see reflected in these photos. Mary Grace is the luckiest little girl in the whole entire world to have you two as parents!

Click here to see my sister’s baby shower!

Dress: Pink Blush
Maternity Belt: Gold Coast Chic
Make-Up: Jessica Hamblin

As soon as we scheduled this session at the Salt River I started praying that we would see the wild horses. If you’ve never been to the Salt River before, I advise you to put your devices down, unplug and go. What you will find will take your breath away. This was my first time going “down to the river” (aside from 1 float trip) since I moved to Arizona in 2003. That’s 12 years I went without having this experience as a part of my life, and it was 12 years too many. Before Power Road starts gradually winding down, it comes to a peak between two small mountains, right near the dam and my response is the same every single time. God. You. Are. Good. To see the rolling dessert, majestic purple mountains and the winding river spread in front of me is a reminder of the goodness of God. Of His grace and mercy. That even when we’re in the desert, there is beauty to be found. And it’s indescribable.

Shane and Jinnae’s session was the very definition of perfect. We caught the sun at just the right time, the location wasn’t crowded and the horses were right there waiting for us, just as I had prayed! We hiked up and down the river bank through narrow paths, dodging tree branches, anxiously waiting the time that the sun set gently behind Red Mountain. And then, as if on cue, the desert lit up. Purples, pinks, greens. Even gray sparkles in the desert at dusk.

Shane and Jinnae, I couldn’t be happier for you! I’m so honored to be a part of your day. I love your story how you were dancing partners first and your love for each other has since grown into a lifelong friendship and commitment to one another. I pray that God blesses you two in countless ways. Cherish these days as you’re counting down to the best.day.ever!

Tag: Salt River

Salt River Maternity Session

Salt River Engagement Session