Melanie Toutai Photography - 209.565.4749 - Portrait Photographer

Families | Kerby & Parker {Stockton, CA Family Portrait Photographer}

2012-01-27T23:19:00.000-08:00

It was a beautiful Saturday morning when this family and I met.

It had been raining the day before, and in my opinion, those sunny days are the best.

So refreshing and beautiful.

And this family...This family was like the sunny day after rain!

Refreshing and BEAUTIFUL!

xox

Enjoy...

Happy Anniversary Tom & Janell!!

And happy adoption day to the beautiful Parker family!!!

I L-O-V-E my clients!!

They are seriously the bomb diggity...no doubt about it.

Melanie

A Slice of Life | Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T00:01:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

xx,

Melanie

A Slice of Life | The Coat

2011-12-16T00:01:00.000-08:00

A gentle reminder of what this season is all about....

xx,

Melanie

A Slice of Life | Storytime

2011-12-15T00:19:00.000-08:00

And the Grinch, with his grinch-feet ice-cold in the snow,

Stood puzzling and puzzling: "How could it be so?

"It came without ribbons! it came without tags!

"It came without packages, boxes or bags!"

And he puzzled three hours, till his puzzler was sore,

Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before!

"Maybe Christmas," he thought, "doesn't come from a store,

"Maybe Christmas...perhaps...means a little bit more!"

-How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss

Love it when Daddy reads to the kids.

Especially when its Dr. Seuss.

Here's to hoping we all have a Grinch moment...

and can ponder on the true meaning of Christmas.

xx,
Melanie

Engagements | Anthony & Chelsea {Manteca, CA Engagement Photography}

2011-12-12T00:01:00.000-08:00

Anthony & Chelsea were such fun to be around.

They are the perfect couple, down to earth and as real as you can get.

I totally enjoyed spending my afternoon with them.

I came home from this session feeling so blessed

to do what I do and meet some seriously AWESOME people.

I can't wait for their Tahoe wedding next year!

Like Anthony's tattoo?
I did.
Better yet, I found out it has some serious meaning to it.
When Anthony was 5 years old his baby brother, Michael, died of SIDS
(Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)
and he got this tattoo recently to raise awareness.
This really touched me as I have babies of my own at home!
Get educated on what SIDS is and how to reduce the risk HERE.

xx,
Melanie

Engagements | Cody & Meagan {Manteca, California Engagement Photography}

2011-12-10T22:03:00.000-08:00

I love this couple to pieces...

Congrats Cody & Meagan!!

I can't wait to celebrate with you both when you tie the knot!

Melanie

Holiday Mini Sessions

2011-12-03T14:51:00.000-08:00

Becuase I love you all soooo much!!

Merry Christmas!

xx,

Melanie

A Slice of Life | Returning with Honor

2011-12-02T23:07:00.000-08:00

Elder Heinze is HOME sweet HOME!

And we are so very glad to have him!!

This is all of us picking Danny up at the airport after his 2 years or workin' hard for the Lord.

Mo'ui Li'oa He Lotu 'I Chile.

We are so proud of you Danny!

Melanie

P.S. Yes that is my son doing some diggin' ;)

A Slice of Life | Happy Halloween!

2011-11-01T01:07:00.000-07:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

I hope ya'all had a good one...

filled with candy and good times galore!

I know our family did!!

Here is our pre-trick-or-treat faux photo shoot...

Halloween is so fun!
This was Baby V's FIRST Halloween!
It's fun to see the excitement in the kids as they dress up and get loads of candy.
It was especially exciting this year as Hubs and I dressed up and joined in on the fun too!
Until next Halloween...

xx,

Melanie

P.S. Elder Heinze these photos were taken just for you.
LOVE YOU brother!! Cant wait to see you soon!!

A Slice of Life: Baby Babble

2011-10-23T21:16:00.000-07:00

My baby is 6 months old.

Wait, SAY WHAT?

Yup. My baby is 6 months old.

Pretty soon (and hopefully not before I know it) I will be saying..

"My baby is 18??? HOW DID THAT HAPPEN??"

Until then I plan on savoring every.single.moment.

Ok..Maybe I wont be savoring the tantrums and the whining moments but you know what I mean.

A couple of weeks ago V started sitting up on his own.

He doesn't sit unless you place him in the sitting position

and he doesnt like rolling over much either

but considering the fact that he weighs as much as a TANK

ill let the whole not-rolling-over-much thing slide.

Anywho enough of my babbling, lets get to the good stuff....

and yes...

By "the good stuff" I did mean a million photos of my 6 month old-soon to be 18 year old baby.

Thanks for Hangin' with me.

Melanie

A Slice of Life: Trampoline Craziness

2011-09-20T15:28:00.000-07:00

A slice of my life

a little play time on the tramp with the kids...

Melanie

P.S. Of course that is baby barf on V's onesie. This is like Reality TV in photo-blog form, baby barf and all. ;)

Portraits: Emery

2011-08-26T14:43:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to this sweet little girl!

She just turned one and I was so blessed to photograph her!

Just a few favorites from this session!

xox,

Melanie

See the whole event and order prints here.

I ♥ Faces | Pets

2011-08-23T13:54:00.000-07:00

Meet George.
We escaped to the beach this past weekend and so did George.
We met him there and became fast friends.
George is a smart dog...he found this stick and would hang around us
patiently waiting for us to throw his stick for him.
If we moved a few steps away from his stick he placed by our feet
he would simply pick the stick up and move it closer to us!
His family soon came and found him hanging with us and took him home.
Goood Times, George. It was fun!

This week is Pets week over at iheartfaces

Head on over there to check out more pet photos!

Brown Eyed Girl

2011-08-16T19:44:00.000-07:00

The photo challenge over at iheartfaces this week is Beautiful Eyes

And I was going to enter this first photo into the challenge

BUT I just didnt execute soon enough.

So I thought I would share a couple of my Beautiful Brown Eyed Girl anyway...

This is the reason I was blessed with a girl.

Mapi loved playing dress-up and she loved the fact that I prettied up her eyes

She was diggin' it to say the least.

Enjoy...

xox

Melanie

I ♥ Faces: Friendship

2011-08-08T10:28:00.000-07:00

We hosted exchange students for the first time this year.

They stayed with us for a short two weeks.

But we made friends and memories for life.

Isnt that what is so fun about friendships?

Making memories with both new and old friends.

What a blessing it is to have friends and be a friend!

Head on over to iheartfaces.com to see more fun friendship photos!

xox,

Melanie

Baby Feet

2011-08-06T21:00:00.000-07:00

Seriously love me some baby feet.

xox

Melanie

A Slice of Life: Toy Time

2011-08-05T23:05:00.000-07:00

A slice of a day in my life.

Toy time.

I swear "playing with the toys" is pretty much

throwing them all out of the toy box

and then walking away.

But this day my kids actually got busy...

Mo got busy Texting...

He's all over that pink phone.

Viliami is always busy being cute...

Busy making "trains" and emptying the toy box...

Mapuana got busy in her kitchen and made me some fabulous Hot Chocolate...

And let me just ask...What is toy time without getting busy with some bubbles???

Case in point.
Toy Time.
Emptying ALL the toys from the toy box.
Somebody SERIOUSLY got busy here...

And the face I get when Toy Time is over and its time to get busy cleaning up...

My little busy bee's.

xox

Melanie

My Family is Forever

2011-05-24T13:48:00.000-07:00

My family is not perfect but it is forever.

Being married just might be one of the hardest things I will ever do.

And to think that my husband and I are responsible for

the rearing of these three little angels

makes marriage even more of a challenge with a greater responsibility
but with the greatest of challenges come the utmost in sweetest rewards.

(testing out a new location for a shoot in a couple of weeks...

the kids weren't too happy I was making them take yet another picture...they just wanted to PLAY!)

Having a family that is forever...
an eternal companion who has trekked through the hardest of times with you and loves you still...
beautiful children to watch grow into Men and Women...
I feel so blessed with the opportunity to be a wife and mother.

The harder you work for something - the more you love and appreciate it.
I love my little family with all my heart and soul.

xx
Melanie

When You're the Best of Friends

2011-05-22T22:47:00.000-07:00

Having so much fun together...

These two crack me up!

Well...they crack each other up!

They are constantly making each other laugh...

Just imagine shopping with them...instead of screaming

(which happens don't get me wrong)

these two are making a ruckus laughing their little hearts out!

A different kind of embarrassing for their mama

but ill take it any day!

These two are a couple of the greatest friends.

Love my kids to pieces!!

xox

Melanie

Baby Viliami | One Week

2011-05-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

My Baby Viliami at One Week

xox,

Melanie

John | Manteca, CA High School Senior Photographer

2011-05-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

John is such a handsome fella!

I had such a fun time at our shoot.

Good luck in college!

xox,

Melanie

Bethanie | Patterson, CA High School Senior Photograper

2011-05-05T20:25:00.000-07:00

Just a few from a recent senior session...

Bethanie is such a sweet girl!

She has a bright future ahead of her!

Congrats on your your senior year and

good luck on your college adventures!

You are going to do awesome!

xox,

Melanie

Baby Viliami

2011-04-25T20:25:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the World Baby!

Viliami Mo'ui Li'oa He Lotu 'I Chile Toutai

April 21st 2011

10:42 am

8 lbs 10 oz

21 inches long

And sooo Handsome!

Being a mother is nothing short of amazing.

How blessed I am to be the mother of three dear children.

Welcome to the world, my little miracle.

Mama loves you.

xox,

Melanie

Love 'em or Leave 'em

2011-04-06T20:30:00.000-07:00

♥ ♥ ♥

I want my body back.

Two more weeks and I give birth to another baby boy.

I'll still have TONS of work to do before I get my body back

(Hellloooo Jillian)

but at least i wont be sharing it with anyone, sort of.

♥ ♥ ♥

Today I am so grateful for COSTCO!

Man I love that place - my bank hates it but you know...cant please everyone.

Today I took back my relatively brand new rice cooker after we had a serious fight last night.

No receipt.

No box.

I even forgot to put in the rice measurer.

BOOM.

Costco, in all their glory, took that lame cooker back

No questions asked.

Then they gave me a full refund.

Cash or Card Mrs. Toutai?

Thank you, Costco...

For being so AWESOME!

♥ ♥ ♥

Did I mention how I want my body back?

And maybe a fab pair of hot mama boots to celebrate.

Yeah.

Sounds good to me.

xox

Melanie

Baby David

2011-03-18T00:18:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the World baby David!

Born March 13th, 2011

2:06 pm

8 lbs 6 oz

20.5 inches long

and Perfect.

Congrats on the new bundle of joy!!

xox,

Melanie

I ♥ Faces: Sun Flare

2011-03-13T23:12:00.000-07:00

Wow

Its been a while since I've participated in an I ♥ Faces challenge.

But even though this isnt a new photo for the blog

its one of my favorites.

Head on over to iheartfaces for more sunflare fun!

xox

Melanie

Popcorn Popping

2011-03-03T15:17:00.000-08:00

Behold, a sign of SPRING...

Hallelujah!

Winter is only fun when Christmas is near.

After Christmas I'm done with the cold and ready for spring!

xox,

Melanie

The Many Faces of Mapuana

2011-02-15T16:28:00.000-08:00

♥ For Uncle Danny ♥

Please sit back and enjoy...

Love,

Mapuana

Show me your Darth Vader face....

2011-02-13T23:13:00.000-08:00

The kids and my husband are currently really "into" (read: obsessed with) Star Wars.

Even my daughter, I cant even wrap my head around that!

So we talk about "The Force" and all that it entails quite often in the house.

Mo plays star wars with everything...he thinks Darth is pretty cool.

He even told me the other day that Anakin was his "bestest friend ever"

Its pretty legit.

So here is what I captured when I said

"Show me your Darth Vader face..."

To Mapuana I say:

Sweet Thang...

you need to work on showing off that dark force.

To Mote I say:

Who knew Darth had boogers.

Maybe that's why he wears the helmet.

Love my kids.

They are so fun.

xox

Melanie

♥ Lisa ♥ {Manteca, CA Maternity Photographer}

2011-02-12T23:26:00.000-08:00

This woman is amazing.

I love her.

Just wanted to share some favorites from today's Maternity session.

And my absolute FAVORITE from today...

And this is excited big sister...

(The other big sister was snoozin')

Congrats Lisa!!

Only 2 more weeks left and then we get to meet

the little baby boy!

Can't Wait!!

xox

Melanie

OpLove: Sneak Peak {Manteca, CA Family Photographer}

2011-01-18T22:28:00.000-08:00

I am in the middle of editing my recent OpLove shoot.

The shoot was so fun! And these kids were such cuties.

But this little guy...well he is such a handsome feller

and...

I think this picture is ABSOSULTELY adorable.
I can't stop going back and looking at it because it just puts a smile on my face.
Is that wierd?
Maybe its because as a fellow mommy
I've seen this look on my own kids faces too many times to count.
But...

of course I just had to share.

Ill post more of this session soon!

xox

Melanie

Th R Family {Manteca CA Photographer}

2011-01-17T00:01:00.000-08:00

I've known this family for a long time!

I love them.

So when Jeanne asked me to take some photos when her boys came home for the Hollidays

I said OF COURSE!!

Here are just a couple from our session...

Go HERE to view the entire event and order prints.

Or check out Facebook.

xox

Melanie

The K Family {Turlock CA Photographer}

2011-01-15T12:57:00.000-08:00

Such a beautiful family.

And I give them props for putting up with the rain with me!!

Hope you enjoy...

You can see the whole session and order prints HERE.

Or check out Facebook!

xox

Melanie

The Naven's {Manteca, CA Family Photographer}

2011-01-12T00:01:00.000-08:00

I took this families photos last month and with the craziness of the holidays I am just NOW blogging a couple of my favorites.

I seriously L-O-V-E this family.

Does it seems like I say this about every family?

Well I really love this fam-bam.

Fo-Realz!

They are hip and can appreciate a good fart joke just as much as me.

(TMI? sorry...hehe)

My daughter is in love with this little man...

I had fun as always with you all!

Thanks for sharing your afternoon with me!

You can see more of their session HERE.

xox

Melanie

Operation: Love ReUnited

2011-01-11T13:00:00.000-08:00

Because they give so much for us.

Because of them we are free.

Because I am so grateful.

That is why I participate in this wonderful program...

"If you are a member or family member of the United States Military, and are interested in having very special and touching images with a patriotic edge taken of you and/or your family before a deployment or during, and at your reunion, please contact a photographer in your area now. You will receive a substantial package as a gift in appreciation for all you have been through as a military member. The package will always include a 4x6 album of pre-deployment images, such as a child’s hand clasped in his parent’s with the faint glimpse of a BDU sleeve, a marine in dress with his family, a salior with his parents right before departure, or a child playing dress up in combat boots and a helmet. The album will be sent to the deployed soldier by the photographer, at no cost to you. Also with your package, all session fees will be waived. Your photographer may have a designated package or other options for Operation: Love ReUnited participants at their discretion with a signed model release."

- www.oplove.org

Go HERE to learn more and to find an OpLove photographer in your area.

xox

Melanie

Monday Madness

2011-01-10T00:01:00.000-08:00

I'll be trying my hand at staying on TOP of this for once.

The Goal:

Every Saturday have a photo for this Project 52.

It should be a blast and also just a good way to keep thinking creatively.

So better late then never here is the first photo of 2011's Project 52...

We got a fabulously used, dirt-cheap, & out of tune piano!

Thank you Craigslist!

Here is my husband Jammin' (think chopsticks)....

ok...think twangy chopsticks cause this thing hasn't been tuned in almost 30 years! haha!

It has the perfect spot in our home and I am so excited to have a musical instrument in the house.

Just makes our house more HOMEY.

(And not in a thugin' kind of way. yo.)

I guess I am most excited about my daughter taking lessons, even though that wont happen for years!

And yes...this picture is grainy. That is how it's meant to be.

Anywho--be on the lookout for saturday's post for the 2nd photo of the 52 project.

*wink*wink*

I'm feelin' funky so ill leave you with this...

peace-out. yo.

xox

Melanie

Luke. I am your father.

2011-01-09T21:19:00.000-08:00

Mo.

Obsessed.

With Star Wars.

This is before Mo ripped the lightsaber right off of Luke.

Now poor Luke is defenseless against Vader.

And for your personal entertainment:

xox

Melanie

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T19:17:00.000-08:00

Remember this post?

I really haven't done the best job at it..

Anyways...In the spirit of the Christmas season,

and because my little Brother is serving a mission in Chile spreading tidings of great joy,

it is necessary that I post this video.

And that you watch it because it is amazing.

I am absolutely positively so blessed!

I am eternally grateful for this, the best gift of all time

That Christ was born

That he suffered and died for us

and for the knowledge that I have of this!

I hope you and yours have a Very Merry and Blessed Christmas!

xox

Melanie

My Girl

2010-12-22T20:27:00.000-08:00

Yuppers. She's my girl.

My girly girl.

Just like mommy was.

That's my girl.

And I love her.

Melanie

Oh Mister Sun...

2010-12-15T12:52:00.000-08:00

It's the most wonderful time of the year.

This is absolutely true!

However, today this is what my heart is singing...

Oh Mister Sun, Sun,
Mister Golden Sun,
Please shine down on me

Oh Mister Sun, Sun,
Mister Golden Sun,
Hiding behind a tree...

These little children

(And their MOMMY too!!!)
Are asking you
To please come out
So we can play with you

Oh Mister Sun, Sun,
Mister Golden Sun,
Please shine down on...
Please shine down on...
Please shine down on ME!

xox

Melanie

The Drinkwater Family {Manteca, CA Family Photographer}

2010-11-23T06:00:00.000-08:00

I really love this family.
They are absolutely positively wonderful.

♥ ♥ ♥

These boys and their beautiful blue eyes. Killer.

I love this photo...it makes me smile.
And it makes me want to say "Hardy-Har-Har".
But I'm pretty sure thats just because I'm a bit wierd.

Love!

Such a gorgeous family!!

Love them to pieces!

See more of their session here.

xox

Melanie

Yellow

2010-11-23T01:00:00.000-08:00

Yellow.

One of my favorite colors.

It reminds me of spring.

And makes me one happy girl.

I was pretty sure that rose bush in our backyard was dead.

But I looked out the window today, and what did I see?

A yellow rose blooming for me...

xox

Melanie

The A Family {Manteca, CA Portrait Photographer}

2010-11-22T06:00:00.000-08:00

These kids are a couple of the cutest kids on the block...

Just check out this little girl!

How much more adorable can you get?

And those Blue eyes?? GORG!

Such a CUTE couple of kids!

xox

Melanie

Fall for Me {Manteca, CA Family Photographer}

2010-11-20T21:47:00.000-08:00

Or fall for this cute family.

Either way you will be fallin'

And fallin' fast...

She had a BLAST jumping in those leaves!

They are celebrating the pregnancy of their third child!

Very exciting!!

Speaking of fall...

I guess its over here in Cali.

Sort of sad to see it go seeing as how I had to turn my heater on

and am still freezing! Brrr....

But happy that Christmas is just around the corner!

xox

Much Love,

Melanie

He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother {Manteca, CA Family Photographer}

2010-11-17T22:17:00.000-08:00

The road is long

With many a winding turn

That leads us to who knows where

Who knows where

But I'm strong

Strong enough to carry him

He ain't heavy, he's my brother

So on we go

His welfare is of my concern

No burden is he to bear

We'll get there

For I know

He would not encumber me

He ain't heavy, he's my brother

If I'm laden at all

I'm laden with sadness

That everyone's heart

Isn't filled with the gladness

Of love for one another

It's a long, long road

From which there is no return

While we're on the way to there

Why not share

And the load

Doesn't weigh me down at all

He ain't heavy he's my brother

He's my brother

He ain't heavy, he's my brother

These brother's are such handsome Fella's.

Say Cheese...

2010-11-13T23:34:00.000-08:00

....Then SCREAM!

xox

Melanie

Munchkin Land

2010-11-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

Please let me entertain you with Mapuana's favorite Wizard of Oz song...

She brings you good news. Or haven't you heard?
When she fell out of Kansas
A miracle occurred.

It really was no miracle. What happened was just this.
The wind began to switch - the house to pitch and suddenly the hinges started to unhitch.
Just then the Witch - to satisfy an itch went flying on her broomstick, thumbing for a hitch.
And oh, what happened then was rich.
*The house began to pitch. The kitchen took a slitch.
It landed on the Wicked Witch in the middle of a ditch,
Which was not a healthy situation for the Wicked Witch.
*The house began to pitch. The kitchen took a slitch.
It landed on the Wicked Witch in the middle of a ditch,
Which was not a healthy situation for the Wicked Witch.
... Who began to twitch and was reduced to just a stitch of what was once the Wicked Witch.
Let the joyous news be spread, The Wicked Old Witch at last is dead!

Mapuana "sings" this ALL the time.
Her Pre-School teacher even told me she was singing Wizard of Oz songs during their worksheet time!
And of course she HAD to have the above "Dorothy" shoes.
And every stuffed dog of hers has now been re-named "Toto".
She is a doll and cracks me up.

xox,
Melanie

Crack Seed.

2010-11-12T09:00:00.000-08:00

Crack Seed.

It's what us Hawaiian folk call it.

And let me tell you its crack to me!

I could eat this snack 365 days out of every year of my life! YUM!

My mouth goes crazy over the thought of that Dried Salty Licorice Lemon Peel!

I know some (ok maybe MOST) of you just don't get it.

But that's fine...just means more for me! That's what I tell my family anyway!!

Unfortunately, I don't live on the island and hardly ever get my hands on these bad boys

so when I only had 3 left in my bag (i know...oink oink)

I got sad and thought, hey I better preserve the taste through a photo!

And viola...here it is.

xox

Melanie

Double The Fun {Manteca, CA Family Photographer}

2010-11-11T15:02:00.000-08:00

This double family session was an absolute BLAST!

We all had so much fun!

And those kids are absolutely A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E!!!

Enjoy...

Sisters & Cousins

Siblings

♥ ♥ ♥

Mama & Baby

The 2 CUTEST little girls around!

I know I've told ya before how much I ADORE baby feet!!

AND baby bubbles...uhhh ♥ ♥ ♥

She is a DOLL!

What BEAUTIFUL families!!

Love ya!

xox,

Melanie

Motor

2010-11-11T14:19:00.000-08:00

Yup. Thats what we call him.

Motor.

And everytime this kid see's a motorcycle he goes crazy in love.

Just imagine a 2 year old in a candy store...

"Thats MY moto-cycle!!!"

Thats him.

Well, at Uncle's garage he just HAD to sit on this Motorcycle...

And just look at how happy he was!!

Don't worry...I havent spoiled it for him yet and let him know that

not in a MILLION years will Mommy actually let him actually own a motorcycle!

Tata for now.

xox

Melanie

Time Time Time

2010-11-05T01:58:00.000-07:00

TIMER!

The wonder's of a timer on the camera...

However, let me tell you we fought the light on this picture and for that we may need a re-shoot.

But as long as we have a tri-pod and that fancy camera timer we are all set!

Let me just tell you I am excited about dragging my little family out a bit more often for our own little photo shoots!

xox

Melanie

Dudes & Bettys

2010-10-12T19:55:00.000-07:00

Yes. I'm still here...

Havent blogged in FOREEVVVERRR! So sorry!

I have tons of things to post but have been so super busy..

Here is a few to hold you over...

My kids were at Tutu & Grandpa's house when they got so super dirty they had to take a bath.

Did I bring an extra pair of clothes? NOPE!

So they put on a couple of Uncle Danny's Hollister Shirts.

Mo slept in his all night and didn't want me to take it off in the morning! Haha!

So, Hollister feel free to start making some cute kids clothes..

This Betty and This Dude would be more than happy to model 'em for ya!

xox

Melanie

Dear Elder...

2010-08-16T01:45:00.000-07:00

Photos de tus sobrinos...
Because they love you
And cause they are so cute.
♥ ♥ ♥

Mo giving his mommy a flower.
Yes I am his mommy, and yes I did clean his face off.

Swing....

Swinging, its the cool thing to do.

Zip lining at the park...that's extra cool.

And the below image was me trying to "model pose" Mapi....

Let's just say we'll keep practicin' that ... hehe.

Hope you enjoyed Elder!!

We all love you!!

xox,

Your Big Sis

P.S. Just in case you were wondering...

Yes. There were pirates at the park.

And no, no one freaked out.

xox

♥ Trapper ♥

2010-08-12T15:45:00.000-07:00

Meet my cousin's baby.

Trapper.

Only the cutest darn thing ever!

And if he is anything like his Mama and Papa...

he will have one stunna of a personality!!

When babies are happy, they make me happy.

xox,

Melanie

Families!

2010-08-06T13:53:00.000-07:00

Familes are so fun!

They are especially fun when they are planning a SUPRISE present for their mom!

This family asked me if I would take pictures of them so they could give their mom a fabulous present.

The best part for me was I could tell she really enjoyed them!

These triplets and their big sister were fun to be around!!

Happy Birthday Monique!

Congrats on having such beautiful children!

They are all so full of personality and are so much fun to be around!!

xox

Melanie

Explore the world with me.

2010-07-30T23:44:00.000-07:00

My BFF & I took the kiddos to the Children's Museum.

I'll have to admit I was expecting it to be pretty ghetto, but it was instead very nice!

And the kids had a BLAST exploring...

And I had fun clickin' some pix...

Hello!! How is this girl so dang gorgeous!?!
I'm probably biased seeing as how I am her mother but, c'mon all you have to do
is just take a look at those big beautiful eyes and those LIPS!
Awww..she's got my heart, thats for sure.

And I am just LOVIN' this photo of my BFF and her God-Daughter!!
Marissa is nothing short of AMAZING and I love her to pieces!

xox,
Melanie

♥ Good Morning Beautiful ♥

2010-07-27T02:41:00.000-07:00

When my beautiful boy woke up the other morning,

I couldnt help but run downstairs for my camera.

It was his crazy hair that got me.

And his cute sleepy face.

When he realized I wasn't going to grab him right away one little tear took a stroll on his cheek.

And then instead of yelling at me to put my camera down and pick him up....

He gives me the lip.

And thats when I couldnt take it anymore.

Talk about Meltin' Mama's Heart!!

xox

Melanie

Bellies!

2010-07-08T11:10:00.000-07:00

There is something so magical about pregnancy.

An experience some are blessed to have.

I recently did my first maternity shoot and this might just be my favorite image from the session.

Or maybe its this one...

Or this one...

She is just so georgous I can't choose a favorite!

Alicia~

You are an amazing woman!

A fantastic mother

who is full of life and love.

I am so blessed to know you.

Thank you for being the fabulous woman you are.

And lets not forget how incredibly BEAUTIFUL you are!!!

Thanks for trucking along with me and being a great sport!

xox

Melanie

♥ Chris & Athina Married!! ♥ {Rocklin Wedding Photographer}

2010-07-06T15:06:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to this beautiful couple!!

Chris & Athina you both are amazing and so cute together!

Congrats!

And thank you for allowing me the opportunity to be apart of your special day!

xox,
Melanie

Tearin' it Up

2010-07-03T13:41:00.000-07:00

The Lawn That Is.

And gettin' a new one in.

And the new one is lookin' so good!

xox

Melanie

ClickinMoms 2010 Scavenger Hunt

2010-07-01T18:56:00.000-07:00

I am super excited for the ClickinMoms Scavenger Hunt!!

Come join the fun!!

Use coupon code FRIEND at checkout to get 10% off any subscription
or use coupon code LOVECM for 20% off a lifetime subscription.

HURRY coupon codes are only good through midnight EST on Friday, July 2nd.

Click the Rock Your Camera Sign Below to get started!!

xox

Melanie

The Catch

2010-06-27T22:03:00.000-07:00

A lizard made the mistake of showing himself to us today.

And thus proceeded a 15 minute hunt in the 100 degree afternoon.

Elder Heinze...

I like to believe we did it all for you.

Happy Birthday!

Hope you enjoy...

Its under the tire.

Just clap the ground....

it'll come out.

We ♥ Matthew...

GQ.

Please feel free to pay me for this photo.

And girls...just contact me for his number...

Isn't he a handsome fella?

I told you he was handsome....

Didn't I?

And yes.

This is my girl.

Flower in one hand.

Lizard in the other.

I guess we are all a bit weird in my family.

Its in the blood.

It was a blazin hot day.

And so much fun.

xox

Melanie

Hmmmm

2010-06-27T21:42:00.000-07:00

Hmmm...

Lets just say we love him anyways.
Even if he is 20something and still likes catching lizards.
Its fun to watch!

He was a Beaut...
But we let the poor 'lil sucker go.
And yes, I am talkin' bout the lizard.

I Heart Faces - Pets

2010-06-27T10:50:00.000-07:00

Check out IheartFaces for more Cute Pets!

It's Showtime!

2010-06-25T12:51:00.000-07:00

Say a little prayer for me.

I'm sure Ill survive!

Shooting my FIRST wedding today.

WOOT WOOT!

I bet I have more nerves than the bride!

IT"S SHOOOWWWTIMMME!!

I'm excited!!

Ill come back and report...

xox

Melanie

Lorikeets

2010-06-22T19:16:00.000-07:00

They must simply be the most beautiful and social birds

Of course they are found in Polynesia among other places

and maybe thats why I am fascinated with them

But they are gorgeous nonetheless

♥ ♥ ♥

And this image of my princess pulls at my heartstrings.

xox

Melanie

Me. Take me as I am.

2010-06-15T19:04:00.000-07:00

I have decided that this blog is going to be more than just posting my most recent photography

but it will also be an intimate look into who I am and what I believe.

You will see me

For who I am.

What inspires me.

The people and things I love.

What makes my heart sing.

All mixed in with my growth as a photographer.

I am excited about this.

I think Natalie Norton does a great job at this.

She is amazing.

Wears her heart on her sleeve.

Check her out.

And just so you know I don't think that just 'cause she lives in Hawaii ;)

xox

Melanie

I Blog For You, Elder Heinze

2010-06-13T22:46:00.000-07:00

Thats right.

You are my reason.

I am so much better at blogging (believe it or not)

than writing an email to ya.

It makes me wanna get my camera out when something cool is happenin'

or just when the hum-drum no big deal stuff is going on.

I love you Elder.

You are my inspiration.

You rock.

Here are a couple of pictures of your amazing Sobrinos...

She is "smelling the flowers and telling them bye-bye" here.

Just in case you were wondering.

**wink**wink**

Yes. That is drool. In its raw form.

And I should have asked the Pirate at the park if I could have taken his picture.

I will definitely not pass up on the opportunity next time.

xox

Melanie

Let's Have a Picnic

2010-06-11T19:07:00.000-07:00

On our brand spankin' new

kids-sized

picnic table!

Build from 2x4's by the one and only

Hubs.

He is incredible!

And I might just be more excited about this than the kids!

Now I just need to tackle staining it.

Want to build your own kids-sized picnic table?
Visit Ana at Knock-Off-Wood for FREE plans!!
She's amazing and Lo & I are already planning our next project thanks to her!

xox

Melanie

♥ My Endless Love ♥

2010-06-08T19:17:00.000-07:00

I'm so glad

This man

Has my back.

Forever.

My love
There's only you in my life
The only thing that's right
My first love
You're every breath I take
You're every step I make

And I
I want to share
All my love with you
No one else will do
And your eyes. Your Eyes. Your Eyes.
They tell me how much you care
Oh, yes
You'll always be
My endless love

Two hearts
Two hearts that beat as one
Our lives have just begun
And forever
I'll hold you close in my arms
I can't resist your charms

And I
I'd play the fool
For you, I'm sure
You know I don't mind
And yes
You mean the world to me
I know I've found in you
My endless love

And love
I'd play the fool
For you, I'm sure
You know I don't mind
Oh, yes
You'd be the only one
'Cause no, I can't deny
This love I have inside
And I'll give it all to you
My love. My love. My love.

xoxox
Melanie

And then he woke up...

2010-06-07T18:55:00.000-07:00

I love my sleeping angels.

And then they wake up...

and become energetic, demanding, & full of personality

and I still love 'em to death.

xox

Melanie

Celebrating Today

2010-05-28T11:05:00.000-07:00

Today I am celebrating a couple of things.

#1 - My wedding anniversary! 5 years to the perfect man for me.

♥ ♥ ♥

Love him soo incredibly much.

#2 - Celebrating the season.

Pretty sure the farmers market is starting next week

**HALLELUJAH!!**

Which can only mean one thing...

PLUOTS!!

and other delish fruit will be readily available!

My absolute favorite time of the year.

YIPEE!!

xx
Melanie

Happy Memorial Day Weekend!

2010-05-28T10:26:00.000-07:00

Had hubby drive off the road last night to try and catch some sun-flare

Got a picture of this flag in the midst...

Hope everyone has a safe Memorial Day weekend!

xox

Melaine

Check it Out!

2010-05-26T15:53:00.000-07:00

Check this out.

MTP and Mitch Heinze Art on the front page of The Manteca Bulletin!

Click: HERE

Image courtesy Rose Albano, Manteca Bulletin

A day in the Life

2010-05-25T15:55:00.000-07:00

Sometime this week i will capture a day in my life.

So be prepared for that post to come soon.

Until then here is a snapshot of life..

Mapi lovin' her some Hawaiian Sweet Bread.
We all love some Hawaiian Sweet Bread.
Maybe the best bread ever.
Just maybe.

xox
Melanie

Luau

2010-05-21T14:13:00.000-07:00

Last night we had a Luau at church.

It was so fun.

We had delicious food, music, and even DANCING!

And what's a luau without this...

It was most definitely a fun night!

Thanks to the Elders Quorum for putting on such a nice evening.

Melanie

Engaged! Chris & Athina

2010-05-18T14:26:00.000-07:00

This couple was so fun to be with!

They are adorable and so excited to get married!

and my absolute favorite from our session...

Thanks Chris & Athina!

You both ROCK!

Congrats!!

xox

Melanie

Naven Family

2010-05-10T12:28:00.000-07:00

This beautiful family asked to have some pictures taken for Mother's Day!

I have resisted blogging till after the fact because Kris & Vanessa

wanted to surprise their Mom with these pictures of them & her grandkids

I think they turned out cute!

Hope everyone had a FABULOUS Moma's Day.

I know I did!

Melanie

Beautiful Grad part II

2010-05-07T09:10:00.000-07:00

This session was so easy!

And Courtney was so fun to be with.

She is a such a beautiful person inside and out!

Congrats again on your College Graduation!

Melanie

College Grad

2010-05-06T15:40:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful College Grad!

Keep a look out for more of her session coming soon!

Melanie

Cuteness

2010-05-05T09:07:00.000-07:00

Yup.

That is Miss Mary.

Total cuteness.

Melanie

I am Goggle-Man

2010-05-03T01:43:00.000-07:00

Ok. So I am not "Goggle-Man"

but my little man sure is...

he wouldn't take the darn things off.

And just so you know Mr. Goggle-Man requests

(or rather Mr. Goggle-Man's Mama)

that you ignore his boogers and slobber.

Gracias.

Melanie

The Bumble Bee

2010-04-27T03:22:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share a favorite quote of mine.

"Aerodynamically, the bumble bee shouldn't be able to fly,

but the bumble bee doesn't know it so it goes on flying anyway."
-Mary Kay Ash

It reminds me to not put limitations on myself.

And to always have a "Can-Do" attitude.

Another quote I ♥ ♥ ♥

"God didn't have time to make a nobody, only a somebody.

I believe that each of us has God-given talents within us

waiting to be brought to fruition"

-Mary Kay Ash

How very true is that.

I am a somebody

and so are you.

A somebody of infinite worth

A somebody with divine talents & gifts

just waiting to be discovered and cultivated.

I ♥ the camera.

I used to like being in front of it

Now I L-O-V-E being behind it.

I'd like to think of myself as a little bumble bee.

Other people may think it impossible for me to fly

but I am just gonna keep on flying anyway

because I am a Daughter of a Heavenly Father

and "Can-Do" anything I put my mind to.

And so can YOU.

Here's to discoveries & cultivations!

I took a HUGE step out of my comfort zone and

started a Facebook Fan Page.

I would love for you to "Like" me!
Click HERE: www.facebook.com/melanietoutaiphotography
I would ♥ for you to come play with me & my camera!

During the month of May & June
I will be booking "dirt cheap" portfolio building sessions
email me if you are interested!!

melanietoutaiphotography@gmail.com

xoxox,
Melanie

Choo-Choo Trains

2010-04-26T11:36:00.000-07:00

I've never seen a "Choo-Choo Train" up so close before.

I must say it was pretty cool.

and I think the boys thought it was cool too.

I'll post some more pix of our fun adventure tomorrow.

xoxox

Melanie

Please tell me why...

2010-04-23T16:25:00.000-07:00

...my child refuses to keep his clothes on.
And doing it all with a smile.

xoxox

Melanie

P.S. I just had to capture the moment. Saving this for his teen-dating years. =)

♥ Friends ♥

2010-04-22T15:29:00.000-07:00

The kids ♥ ♥ ♥ their friends

Just some of them that I could catch up with at the park earlier today...

It is fun to have a friend who will play with you.
It is fun to have a friend who can stay with you.
It is fun to make a friend for your whole life through.
But to have a friend, you must be a friend, too.

-Glenn Gordon

xoxox

Melanie

Iron Man is Teething

2010-04-20T00:02:00.000-07:00

Uncle Timmy bought Mo an Iron Man mask today...

He thinks its the coolest thing.

He's been running around ROARRRING at every one.

Chasing his big sister around.

She screams like crazy and says

"Mommy....Mo's a monster"

and I say, "Mo's not a monster he is IRON MAN"

And I remind them both that Iron Man is a good guy who helps people.

And then Mo ROARRRSS and chases Mapi around again.

They are too cute.

Can you tell Iron Man is teething?

Hence the wet shirt.

xoxox

Melanie

Just Another Day

2010-04-14T22:54:00.000-07:00

xoxox

Melanie

Curly

2010-04-10T14:53:00.000-07:00

I love her hair.

She hates it.

I love her.

Just another picture of The Hunt.

I need to go shooting again...

I need models.

Any takers?

xoxox

Melanie

The Hunt

2010-04-06T11:57:00.000-07:00

Easter 2010

The Kids had such a fabulous time on our Easter Egg Hunt!

In the field behind Aunties house.

Dean.

Mote.

Mote..on The Hunt.

Mops.

We had such a BEAUTIFUL Easter Sunday!

So much fun!!

Ill post more tomorrow of the other kiddos.

xoxox

Melanie

Fix It Friday

2010-04-02T14:26:00.000-07:00

This picture over at I♥faces fix-it-friday was adorable!!

So I decided to give it a go and edit it.

Here is the before:

and the after

Isnt she darling?

Check out more fix-its here.

Lil' Mister C.

2010-03-30T16:46:00.001-07:00

He is

too handsome.

Lil' Mister C.

xoxox

Melanie

Week 1 Project 52

2010-03-30T01:00:00.000-07:00

Spring Has Sprung!

Hurray!

Beautiful apple blossoms

from a sad looking tree in our backyard.

xoxox

Melanie

P.S Check out that background bokeh =)

Dramatic Black & White

2010-03-29T23:07:00.000-07:00

My firstborn.

Mizz Mapi.

Is she dramatic?

Yes!!

The most dramatic 3 year old I've met.

And we love her for it.

xoxox

Melanie

Head on over to iheartfaces for some awesome b&w!

Project 52

2010-03-26T01:16:00.000-07:00

I have heard of this before.

Take a picture every day for 365 days.

Thats project 365.

BLAH!

Knowing me that would NEVER happen.

How about this one?

Take a picture every week for 52 weeks.

Thats Project 52.

I can tackle Project 52.

And I am excited to do so!

It will be great to hold myself accountable

and in the end hopefully better my mad photog skillz ;)

*wink*wink*

Stay tuned for week one of Project 52.

xoxox

Melanie

I ♥ Baby Feet

2010-03-22T00:49:00.000-07:00

Have I mentioned that I love baby feet?

Yup.

I love tiny little baby feet.

xoxox

Melanie

♥ Baby Scarlett ♥

2010-03-16T16:51:00.000-07:00

Some friends of mine just had a beautiful baby

They let me come and take some pictures of her!

She is just a doll

15 days old

Scarlett Lucile

*note to self: in the future don't let cute little baby faces get lost in the blankie*

In mama's hands.

Mama's Hands.

I ♥ Baby Feet!

xoxoxox.

In Daddy's Hands.

Love. Luv. Love.

I love how Scarlett is "holding" Payton's arm. Too Cute.

Payton is such a cute Big Brother.

Congrats Dude!

And look at that BEAUTIFUL family.

Such a beautiful family not only on the outside

but on the inside too.

They are such a blessing in my life.

Thank you for letting me snap some pictures!

Love you guys!

Congrats on your the Little Princess.

xoxox

Melanie.

Kuli Leka

2010-03-15T20:18:00.000-07:00

Our Poor Little ~~Fat~~ Doggy.

Whats a girl to do when there is nothing else around to take a picture of?

Either Grab the PLFD or a Dolly.

I chose the Dog.

She's a Lazy Dog.

She apparently doesn't like the camera.

C'Mon..look at that sad face. Is really that bad??

All I have to say is that hopefully swaddling a baby is easier than swaddling a dog.

Turns out all you have to do to perk her up is to say the magic words:

"Here Kitty Kitty!"

Gets her every time!

xoxox

Melanie

Storyboards

2010-02-26T14:18:00.000-08:00

I know you have seen these pictures before but I am playing around with storyboards....

xoxox

Melanie

Timmy

2010-02-23T22:18:00.000-08:00

Tim. Deep in thought. Contemplating the future of all things.

Aka...posing for his big sis.

xoxox