It's that time of the year again. New Englanders everywhere have been patiently waiting, enduring the last few snow storms, but itching to get outside and DO. Those of us born here with maple sap running through our veins are anxious to get outside and get our hands dirty.

I feel like I have been in a state of hibernation, just waiting for something to happen. Waiting to be able to go outside. Not many people want to have their family portrait taken in a snowbank. However, if there is one thing New Englanders are good at, it is embracing the winter. We get out there and hike, ski, skate, and even fish. We love the snow. In the fall we can't wait for the snow, but come March, we start to dream of warmer weather, farmer's tans, swimming holes, and watermelon.

When I venture outside and start to hear birds chirping and smell the sweet, earthy scent that accompanies the melting of snow and the segue into mud season, I also find myself anxious for the beginning of portrait season.

I love outdoor sessions. I love finding a place that tells a story and then introducing a beautiful or intriguing person to the environment to make it even more interesting.

Spring is an incredible time for outdoor portraits. The return of buds and blossoms create painterly backgrounds, reminiscent of Parish or Monet. Unfortunately Nature's perfect backgrounds are ephemeral and fade to green in just a few short weeks. It is a classic 'hurry up and wait' situation. You never know when mother nature is going to give the word to her budding and flowering minions but when she does, I am ready to start snapping the shutter!