Tamara is one of the most beautiful women I know, truly, in every sense and on every layer of her being. Taking her out for photos on a windy day in Cape Perpetua, equipped with her beautiful black skirt, words being sucked away in the wind until we were breathless and laughing--it was one of the finest moments of my year.

This woman is fierce. Tangled. Tough. Exquisite. One of the best and truest friends one can ask for--the kind who will tell you when you've screwed up, when you're not living to your potential, when you're holding yourself back. The kind who will hug you, laugh with you, cry over the phone, squeal with glee and talk until it's entirely too late. One who will do anything for those she loves, including taking care of her beautiful daughter who has cancer. This woman gives me hope, joy, love and the laughter that can prop me up through the hardest most self-doubting days.

Tamara is a California girl, one who loves warmth and sun. Yet she still braves, humors and even embraces my love of cold, windy, uncomfortable, beautiful Oregon landscapes. Photographing her here, on a cold, windy, uncomfortable and yet outrageously gorgeous day was perfect.