Graceful Living by Esther | travel photographer and crochet items

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Harvesting Wheat

About

My name is Esther White

I’m a passionate photographer and crochet artist, capturing life’s special moments through my camera and creating handmade treasures with love. From portraits and weddings to custom crochet gifts and toys, I love bringing joy and creativity to everything I do.

Our Services

Lakelynn || 7 Month Milestone

Lakelynn || 7 Month Milestone

📸 Senior Session Spotlight 🍂

This afternoon, I had the pleasure of photographing Arianna, a Maquoketa Valley Class of 2026 senior, at the beautiful Lennox College in Hopkinton! The golden leaves, historic brick buildings, and crisp fall air gave off the perfect vintage autumn vibe — exactly what every photographer dreams of this time of year.

Arianna absolutely shines in everything she does — from her love of vinyl records and reading to her passion for musicals and dedication to her schoolwork. She’s a student who truly excels and enjoys every bit of the learning process! 🎓💛

✨ Fun Fact: Lennox College, founded in 1859, was once a thriving liberal arts school and even served as a training ground for soldiers during the Civil War! Today, its historic remains make it a hidden gem for timeless photo sessions.

It was such a joy capturing Arianna’s personality and style among the history and beauty of this special spot. 🍁

📸 Senior Session Spotlight 🍂

This afternoon, I had the pleasure of photographing Arianna, a Maquoketa Valley Class of 2026 senior, at the beautiful Lennox College in Hopkinton! The golden leaves, historic brick buildings, and crisp fall air gave off the perfect vintage autumn vibe — exactly what every photographer dreams of this time of year.

Arianna absolutely shines in everything she does — from her love of vinyl records and reading to her passion for musicals and dedication to her schoolwork. She’s a student who truly excels and enjoys every bit of the learning process! 🎓💛

✨ Fun Fact: Lennox College, founded in 1859, was once a thriving liberal arts school and even served as a training ground for soldiers during the Civil War! Today, its historic remains make it a hidden gem for timeless photo sessions.

It was such a joy capturing Arianna’s personality and style among the history and beauty of this special spot. 🍁

This morning’s session with Chris and Ang was absolutely perfect!
The weather couldn’t have been any better—clear skies, soft light, and that early morning calm that makes everything feel magical. 🌅

Chris and Ang are no strangers to my camera; they’ve become such wonderful recurring clients, and every time we meet, it’s a joy to capture their love. Their connection is so natural, and each session with them feels like catching up with old friends.

I can’t wait to share more from this beautiful shoot—seriously, these two always bring the sweetest energy and the biggest smiles. 💕

This morning’s session with Chris and Ang was absolutely perfect!
The weather couldn’t have been any better—clear skies, soft light, and that early morning calm that makes everything feel magical. 🌅

Chris and Ang are no strangers to my camera; they’ve become such wonderful recurring clients, and every time we meet, it’s a joy to capture their love. Their connection is so natural, and each session with them feels like catching up with old friends.

I can’t wait to share more from this beautiful shoot—seriously, these two always bring the sweetest energy and the biggest smiles. 💕

Kurt & Haylee Eppley ⁰

Kurt & Haylee Eppley ⁰

I absolutely am obsessed with these photos of Blake and Madelyn Tischer!

I absolutely am obsessed with these photos of Blake and Madelyn Tischer!

This day wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible team of vendors who brought it all together:
👰 Dress: @davidsbridal
🎂 Bakery: j&d sweets
🎧 DJ: @Caleb Woodson
🤵 Suits: @menswearhouse
💇‍♀️ Hair: @strandssalonandspa
💄 Makeup: @abbeyjohnsonmakeup
Photographer: Gracefully Captured and Created
📷 Second Shooter: @capturedbyalexisallen
Ceremony: @rivermuseum
Reception: @holidayinn

This day wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible team of vendors who brought it all together:
👰 Dress: @davidsbridal
🎂 Bakery: j&d sweets
🎧 DJ: @Caleb Woodson
🤵 Suits: @menswearhouse
💇‍♀️ Hair: @strandssalonandspa
💄 Makeup: @abbeyjohnsonmakeup
Photographer: Gracefully Captured and Created
📷 Second Shooter: @capturedbyalexisallen
Ceremony: @rivermuseum
Reception: @holidayinn

Ethan & Janna Lohneis | July 12, 2025
Ceremony: National Mississippi River Museum, Dubuque, IA
Reception: Holiday Inn Dubuque

It was an absolute honor to photograph the wedding of Ethan and Janna—two incredibly kind, joyful souls whose love shines through in every moment. Their wedding day was filled with heartfelt emotions, beautiful backdrops, and genuine celebration.

As my very first wedding as a lead photographer, this experience was both unforgettable and inspiring. I’m so thankful for the trust Ethan and Janna placed in me to capture such a meaningful milestone in their lives.

A special thank-you to my talented second photographer, Alexis from @capturedbyalexisallen for helping document the day from every angle with such professionalism and creativity.

Here’s a small preview of the magic from July 12. I can’t wait to share more from this beautiful day. 💍✨

#CapturedByEsther #CapturedByAlexisAllen #EthanAndJanna2025 #DubuqueWedding #RiverMuseumWedding #HolidayInnReception #WeddingPhotography #WisconsinPhotographer #IowaPhotographer #FirstWeddingMilestone

Ethan & Janna Lohneis | July 12, 2025
Ceremony: National Mississippi River Museum, Dubuque, IA
Reception: Holiday Inn Dubuque

It was an absolute honor to photograph the wedding of Ethan and Janna—two incredibly kind, joyful souls whose love shines through in every moment. Their wedding day was filled with heartfelt emotions, beautiful backdrops, and genuine celebration.

As my very first wedding as a lead photographer, this experience was both unforgettable and inspiring. I’m so thankful for the trust Ethan and Janna placed in me to capture such a meaningful milestone in their lives.

A special thank-you to my talented second photographer, Alexis from @capturedbyalexisallen for helping document the day from every angle with such professionalism and creativity.

Here’s a small preview of the magic from July 12. I can’t wait to share more from this beautiful day. 💍✨

#CapturedByEsther #CapturedByAlexisAllen #EthanAndJanna2025 #DubuqueWedding #RiverMuseumWedding #HolidayInnReception #WeddingPhotography #WisconsinPhotographer #IowaPhotographer #FirstWeddingMilestone

The day’s not even done, but this beauty couldn’t wait. ✨ Janna looks like a literal queen — glowing in lace, crowned with grace, and wrapped in love. This veil shot? A moment of magic. 💫 Just wait till you see the rest.
#CapturedByEsther #WeddingSneakPeek #BridalGlow #UnfilteredElegance

The day’s not even done, but this beauty couldn’t wait. ✨ Janna looks like a literal queen — glowing in lace, crowned with grace, and wrapped in love. This veil shot? A moment of magic. 💫 Just wait till you see the rest.
#CapturedByEsther #WeddingSneakPeek #BridalGlow #UnfilteredElegance

⚡🇺🇸 Strike of Freedom 🇺🇸⚡
In the flash of the storm, the spirit of freedom burns brighter.

⚡🇺🇸 Strike of Freedom 🇺🇸⚡
In the flash of the storm, the spirit of freedom burns brighter.

Knox had his own little photo session today, and he absolutely rocked it! 🐾📸 We got out there early before the heat kicked in, and he was so obedient the whole time — truly such a good boy. Knox is so photogenic… and He doesn’t even know it! 😍✨ Love capturing moments like these with my handsome pup.

Knox had his own little photo session today, and he absolutely rocked it! 🐾📸 We got out there early before the heat kicked in, and he was so obedient the whole time — truly such a good boy. Knox is so photogenic… and He doesn’t even know it! 😍✨ Love capturing moments like these with my handsome pup.

Scenery is beautiful

Scenery is beautiful

Future Deer Hunter

Future Deer Hunter

Lakelynn's 4 week

Lakelynn's 4 week

Lakelynn's 3 week

Lakelynn's 3 week

Lakelynn's 2 week

Lakelynn's 2 week

Lakelynns 1 week

Lakelynns 1 week

Lakelynn's Newborn Photography

Lakelynn's Newborn Photography

📸 New lens day! I recently bought a 420–800mm lens to step up my wildlife photography game, and today I finally got out to take it for a spin. 🦅🦫🌊

I’m still figuring out the best settings and working on capturing fast-moving subjects (hello, birds that don’t sit still for more than a second 😅), but overall this lens is awesome. It brings distant scenes and shy wildlife into view like never before!

Here are a few of my practice shots from today — featuring some birds, a curious groundhog, fast-moving water, and some faraway scenery that I couldn’t have reached without this lens. Definitely excited to keep learning and improving with it. 💪📷

Let me know what you think!

#WildlifePhotography #NewLensTest #CapturedByEsther #NatureLover #BirdPhotography #LearningAsIGo #GroundhogSpotting #LongRangeLens #PhotographyJourney

📸 New lens day! I recently bought a 420–800mm lens to step up my wildlife photography game, and today I finally got out to take it for a spin. 🦅🦫🌊

I’m still figuring out the best settings and working on capturing fast-moving subjects (hello, birds that don’t sit still for more than a second 😅), but overall this lens is awesome. It brings distant scenes and shy wildlife into view like never before!

Here are a few of my practice shots from today — featuring some birds, a curious groundhog, fast-moving water, and some faraway scenery that I couldn’t have reached without this lens. Definitely excited to keep learning and improving with it. 💪📷

Let me know what you think!

#WildlifePhotography #NewLensTest #CapturedByEsther #NatureLover #BirdPhotography #LearningAsIGo #GroundhogSpotting #LongRangeLens #PhotographyJourney

I realized i haven't been posting on here as much as I have my Facebook. Here's to catching up.

Lakelynn Fresh 24

I realized i haven't been posting on here as much as I have my Facebook. Here's to catching up.

Lakelynn Fresh 24

This evening, I had an incredible mommy-and-me session with Tina and her son, Victor. These two brought so much energy and creativity to the shoot, especially with their superhero poses! Watching Victor light up as he struck his best heroic stance alongside his mom was truly heartwarming. Sessions like this remind me of the joy in capturing those fun, unforgettable moments between a parent and child. Thank you, Tina and Victor, for letting me be part of your superhero story!

This evening, I had an incredible mommy-and-me session with Tina and her son, Victor. These two brought so much energy and creativity to the shoot, especially with their superhero poses! Watching Victor light up as he struck his best heroic stance alongside his mom was truly heartwarming. Sessions like this remind me of the joy in capturing those fun, unforgettable moments between a parent and child. Thank you, Tina and Victor, for letting me be part of your superhero story!

River days with Mae
2024

River days with Mae
2024

Throwback to Patchs first fall in 2023.

#fallphotography #cats

Throwback to Patchs first fall in 2023.

#fallphotography #cats

🌟 Exciting News from Captured by Esther Photography! 🌟

I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve added some beautiful new items to enhance your newborn photography sessions and a selection of stunning maternity dresses for glowing moms-to-be! These additions are carefully chosen to make your moments even more special and create timeless memories you'll cherish forever.

🎀 For Newborns:
I now have cozy wraps, delicate headbands, and backdrops perfect for capturing those tiny details and sweet expressions. These are all available to use right away during your session! Baskets and other charming props coming as soon as I find some great ones at thrift stores!

🤰 For Mamas-to-Be:
Choose from a few elegant maternity gowns that celebrate the beauty of motherhood. Whether you’re dreaming of an outdoor shoot or a studio session, these dresses are perfect for highlighting this precious chapter of your life.

Let’s create something unforgettable together! 💕 Book your newborn or maternity session today and take advantage of these new options.

📅 Message me to reserve your spot!

🌟 Exciting News from Captured by Esther Photography! 🌟

I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve added some beautiful new items to enhance your newborn photography sessions and a selection of stunning maternity dresses for glowing moms-to-be! These additions are carefully chosen to make your moments even more special and create timeless memories you'll cherish forever.

🎀 For Newborns:
I now have cozy wraps, delicate headbands, and backdrops perfect for capturing those tiny details and sweet expressions. These are all available to use right away during your session! Baskets and other charming props coming as soon as I find some great ones at thrift stores!

🤰 For Mamas-to-Be:
Choose from a few elegant maternity gowns that celebrate the beauty of motherhood. Whether you’re dreaming of an outdoor shoot or a studio session, these dresses are perfect for highlighting this precious chapter of your life.

Let’s create something unforgettable together! 💕 Book your newborn or maternity session today and take advantage of these new options.

📅 Message me to reserve your spot!

Henry's milestone session tonight was such a joy! At just 3 years old, he was full of energy and smiles, especially as we talked about his Paw Patrol-themed birthday party. It was clear how much he adores the characters, and his mom was so proud of him. Capturing these moments was a privilege!

Henry's milestone session tonight was such a joy! At just 3 years old, he was full of energy and smiles, especially as we talked about his Paw Patrol-themed birthday party. It was clear how much he adores the characters, and his mom was so proud of him. Capturing these moments was a privilege!

Today, I had the pleasure of photographing the Gelbach-Moore family at Katie's Garden. The beautiful natural backdrop perfectly complemented this warm and loving family, and we captured some truly special moments together. Quick sessions like these are a reminder of how meaningful it is to freeze time with loved ones in such stunning surroundings. Thank you, Gelbach-Moore family, for letting me be part of your day!

Today, I had the pleasure of photographing the Gelbach-Moore family at Katie's Garden. The beautiful natural backdrop perfectly complemented this warm and loving family, and we captured some truly special moments together. Quick sessions like these are a reminder of how meaningful it is to freeze time with loved ones in such stunning surroundings. Thank you, Gelbach-Moore family, for letting me be part of your day!

Colton is Turning 2!

This morning, I had the absolute joy of photographing Colton for his 2nd birthday photoshoot! His love for Toy Story—especially Rex and Buzz Lightyear—truly shone through during the session. From his big smiles to his playful energy, he reminded me just how much fun it is to work with little ones.

Photographing children is one of my favorite parts of what I do. Their laughter, curiosity, and unique personalities make every session so special. Colton’s excitement and joy were contagious, and capturing these moments for his family is such an honor.

Happy 2nd birthday, Colton! To infinity and beyond! 🚀🦖

If you’re looking to document your child’s milestones, let’s make it happen—kids grow up so fast, but their memories can last forever through photos. 💛

Colton is Turning 2!

This morning, I had the absolute joy of photographing Colton for his 2nd birthday photoshoot! His love for Toy Story—especially Rex and Buzz Lightyear—truly shone through during the session. From his big smiles to his playful energy, he reminded me just how much fun it is to work with little ones.

Photographing children is one of my favorite parts of what I do. Their laughter, curiosity, and unique personalities make every session so special. Colton’s excitement and joy were contagious, and capturing these moments for his family is such an honor.

Happy 2nd birthday, Colton! To infinity and beyond! 🚀🦖

If you’re looking to document your child’s milestones, let’s make it happen—kids grow up so fast, but their memories can last forever through photos. 💛

I recently had the pleasure of creating an adorable crochet mallard duck for a special customer, and I couldn't be more thrilled with how it turned out! This little fella is not just a simple toy; it’s a labor of love crafted with meticulous attention to detail.

Thank you for supporting my crochet journey! If you’re interested in ordering a crochet item, feel free to reach out or go to my Etsy shop: https://gracefulbyesthershop.etsy.com 🧶💖

#Crochet #Handmade #MallardDuck #CustomMade #CraftingJoy #YarnLove

I recently had the pleasure of creating an adorable crochet mallard duck for a special customer, and I couldn't be more thrilled with how it turned out! This little fella is not just a simple toy; it’s a labor of love crafted with meticulous attention to detail.

Thank you for supporting my crochet journey! If you’re interested in ordering a crochet item, feel free to reach out or go to my Etsy shop: https://gracefulbyesthershop.etsy.com 🧶💖

#Crochet #Handmade #MallardDuck #CustomMade #CraftingJoy #YarnLove

📸 Studio Space for Your Next Photography Session! 📸

I'm thrilled to announce that I now offer studio photography sessions in a beautiful, fully-equipped space! Here's what makes this studio a fantastic option for your photos:

✨ Backdrops for Every Occasion

Seasonal options like Fall and Christmas

Classic plain white and black

Plus, a variety of other stunning choices

✨ Perfect for Newborn Photography
The studio features tons of adorable newborn props to make your little one's photos truly special.

✨ Convenient Amenities

A private backroom for outfit changes

On-site bathroom for added convenience

Studio Details:

Rental fees: $25/hour on weekdays and $35/hour on weekends
(Note: Rates are subject to change without notice.)

This space allows me to bring your photography sessions to the next level! Book your session today to take advantage of this amazing location.

Let’s create something beautiful together! Message me to reserve your date.

📸 Studio Space for Your Next Photography Session! 📸

I'm thrilled to announce that I now offer studio photography sessions in a beautiful, fully-equipped space! Here's what makes this studio a fantastic option for your photos:

✨ Backdrops for Every Occasion

Seasonal options like Fall and Christmas

Classic plain white and black

Plus, a variety of other stunning choices

✨ Perfect for Newborn Photography
The studio features tons of adorable newborn props to make your little one's photos truly special.

✨ Convenient Amenities

A private backroom for outfit changes

On-site bathroom for added convenience

Studio Details:

Rental fees: $25/hour on weekdays and $35/hour on weekends
(Note: Rates are subject to change without notice.)

This space allows me to bring your photography sessions to the next level! Book your session today to take advantage of this amazing location.

Let’s create something beautiful together! Message me to reserve your date.

📸 First Studio Session Milestone!

This afternoon, I had the absolute pleasure of photographing Ishmael, Alexis, and their sweet daughter, Dahlia, during my very first studio session! It was such a wonderful experience capturing their love and joy in a cozy and creative setting.

I’m so grateful for their trust and this opportunity to explore new photography settings. Here's to many more studio moments ahead!

If you’re looking for family portraits or a creative studio session, feel free to reach out—I’d love to capture your special moments too!

#CapturedByEsther #StudioPhotography #FamilyLove #Milestones

📸 First Studio Session Milestone!

This afternoon, I had the absolute pleasure of photographing Ishmael, Alexis, and their sweet daughter, Dahlia, during my very first studio session! It was such a wonderful experience capturing their love and joy in a cozy and creative setting.

I’m so grateful for their trust and this opportunity to explore new photography settings. Here's to many more studio moments ahead!

If you’re looking for family portraits or a creative studio session, feel free to reach out—I’d love to capture your special moments too!

#CapturedByEsther #StudioPhotography #FamilyLove #Milestones

This morning, I had the pleasure of photographing the Gelbach-Moore family! Their love and connection were so evident in every shot, making this session an absolute joy. From laughter-filled moments to sweet candid interactions, we captured memories they'll treasure forever. Family sessions like these remind me why I love what I do—preserving the beauty of togetherness. Thank you, Gelbach-Moore family, for allowing me to be part of your story! 💕

This morning, I had the pleasure of photographing the Gelbach-Moore family! Their love and connection were so evident in every shot, making this session an absolute joy. From laughter-filled moments to sweet candid interactions, we captured memories they'll treasure forever. Family sessions like these remind me why I love what I do—preserving the beauty of togetherness. Thank you, Gelbach-Moore family, for allowing me to be part of your story! 💕

Throwback to May 2024
"Yes" to the Dress!

Throwback to May 2024
"Yes" to the Dress!

Laurianna McAlister
Solo Photography

Laurianna McAlister
Solo Photography

Missing spring/summer because of beautiful days like this for beautiful photo opportunities.

Missing spring/summer because of beautiful days like this for beautiful photo opportunities.

Reanna Kvigne
Just two photographers hanging out.

Reanna Kvigne
Just two photographers hanging out.

Cassville's 4th of july parade 2024

Cassville's 4th of july parade 2024

Random Doe encounter

Random Doe encounter

Mae, Knox and Spooks
Pet Photography

Mae, Knox and Spooks
Pet Photography

Gavin Thoma
Solo Photography

Gavin Thoma
Solo Photography

Animal and Nature Photography

Animal and Nature Photography

Sky Photography

Sky Photography

Moon Farm
Farm Photography

Moon Farm
Farm Photography

📷: Gavin Thoma

Did you know I was 4 weeks pregnant in these photos? .....Yeah! I didn't either until later that night.

📷: Gavin Thoma

Did you know I was 4 weeks pregnant in these photos? .....Yeah! I didn't either until later that night.

Senior Photography

Senior Photography

Part 2 of Natasha Krantz
Maternity Photography

Part 2 of Natasha Krantz
Maternity Photography

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