There’s something so deeply personal and sweet about music—especially when it’s shared between siblings. Sydney and Logan are a brother-sister duo with country music roots, a love for meaningful lyrics, and the kind of humble grit that makes you want to sit back, listen, and linger. I caught myself wanting to sing along with Sydney—there’s something extra inviting about a voice that stays in a key you can comfortably follow. It was an absolute joy to photograph their recent session in Niwot, Colorado—capturing a mix of timeless editorial images, album-cover vibes, and that soft, golden-country tone we all love. When I lived in Erie, Colorado, this was my go-to location for portraits. It’s peaceful, tucked away, and full of character—mature trees, soft open shade, and the kind of textured landscape you only find in places that have been growing wild for years.
As a northern Colorado photographer who has a soft spot for music, this was more than just a creative shoot—it was a reminder of how healing music can be. And not just a sound, but the kind that’s laced with purpose, faith, and family.
A Timeless Session for Two Rising Artists
Sydney and Logan are preparing for an upcoming gig in Erie, Colorado, and they’ve recently launched their joint Instagram account: @sydneyandlogan.music. These two are talented, grounded, and just plain fun to be around. Logan plays guitar with the kind of ease that comes from over a decade of self-driven learning and consistent passion. Sydney’s voice carries a softness, warmth, and strength that’s rare at her age—and the fact that she’s just now leaning into vocals is wild, because there’s something incredibly natural there.
We shot this session outdoors in a tall-grass field—a quiet, natural setting with just the right amount of grit and grace. My goal was to create a set of images that felt like an album cover… warm and honest, down-to-earth, approachable, country without the barroom aftertaste.
Music as Ministry: Why Words Matter
While I’m not a professional or aspiring musician, music has always been a part of my life. I learned how to play piano from an old-school tutor named Mrs. Peterson… I can still remember the strange mothball smell in her basement—though it never showed a speck of dust, ever.
I sang in the honor choir in high school (Hi, Mr. Jacob!), took vocal lessons, and could still probably call myself a very rusty mezzo-soprano. These days, most of my singing happens in the car, the shower, or while trying to get toddlers and moody kids to smile during photo sessions—but I’ll never stop loving it. You’ll catch me singing when I’m happy or sad… just on a different playlist. (Does anyone else have music playlists for different vibes? I’m sure I’m not the only one!)
If you spend any amount of time with me, you’ll quickly learn: words matter. So does theology. I’ll joyfully sing along to anything that resonates with biblical truth, but I’ll skip songs that clash with my convictions. There’s a small handful of people in this world who know that I will throw bricks—figuratively, of course—when a certain song comes on the radio because of the artist’s choice of one single word. (I’ll let you guess, but if you’re in my inner circle: you know.)
Sydney and Logan’s musical taste made me smile. When I asked their mom what songs really captured their sound, here’s what she shared—and I got to hear most, if not all, of these on the spot:
- Bible and a .44
- Count on Me
- Something Like Olivia
- How Great Thou Art
- If I Die Young
- Bigger Houses
It’s a mash-up of country, Christian, and honest emotion. And honestly? I’m here for it.
Faith, Family, and the Threads That Tie Us Back Together
Sydney and Logan’s mom and I go back a handful of years—we first met in a women’s Bible study group here in Colorado. Life happened, as it often does. They moved to Oregon for a few years, and we lost touch. But recently, we reconnected, and this session became a sweet full-circle moment. Funny how the Lord brings people back around in His time.
Both Sydney and Logan have worked closely with a private music teacher (Daniel Van Horn) who is incredibly gifted in guitar, piano, bass, vocals, songwriting, and recording. He even leads worship and plays at weddings. Though they’ve only known him for a couple of years, he’s had a huge influence on their musical journey.
Logan began playing guitar when he was just five. His parents had him start with two years of piano to build a foundation—and after his second recital, he asked, “Can I do guitar now?” He was already teaching himself on the side! Today, he plays with friends from church and writes music that even his mom admits is way beyond her comprehension.
Sydney, on the other hand, is more of a musical intuitive. She picks up instruments and learns songs on her own. She’s taken various lessons over the years, but her vocal strength? Mostly raw talent. She’s leaning into it more recently because, well… there’s definitely something there. Her mom even has a video of her at age 3 belting out “Mighty to Save.”
Music and Healing: What the Research Says
This hasn’t just been a slow season—it’s felt like a full-on reboot. Professionally, personally, emotionally, and creatively, it’s been demo day in more ways than one. But even in the rubble, I find myself returning to what grounds me. Whether it’s through images or words, helping people feel seen and celebrated through their story is something I come back to again and again. While Sydney and Logan sing, I tell stories through writing and photography. It’s one of the ways I lean into life, reflect on what matters, and rediscover the beauty woven into ordinary moments.
Sydney and Logan’s mom is a counselor, so let’s follow this little rabbit trail for a moment. 🙂 Did you know that studies show singing reduces cortisol and helps regulate the nervous system? Whether you’re belting out “How Great Thou Art” or humming a song in the kitchen, there’s something about vocal expression that soothes the soul.
Other studies confirm what many of us already know intuitively: faith-based music improves emotional resilience, reduces anxiety, and increases gratitude. For those in the faith, when the lyrics ring true—not just to our experience, but to the Word of God—healing often follows.
In fact, some of the top strategies that therapists and counselors often recommend for reducing stress include:
- Getting outside in nature
- Talking to someone you trust
- Deep breathing and prayerful reflection
- Gentle movement like stretching or walking
- And yes—singing/music. Even humming softly can help regulate your nervous system.
Why This Session Meant So Much to Me
This modeling session was invitation-only—something I sometimes offer when a story, person, or idea sparks that creative pull inside me. I’ve been in a rebuilding season with my personal life and business, and while things aren’t booming, I’ve found Jesus opening quiet doors—ones that lead to connection, healing, and beauty.
A few weeks ago, a trusted friend said, “Maybe it’s time to find some work that is steady, so photography can be joyful again—without all the pressure when photography is slower.” And they were right.
Doing What Brings Joy
On that same note, another friend of mine recently said during LifeGroup, “You need to do more of what brings you joy!”
And it stuck. It gave me confirmation to admit that not all types of photography bring me joy—and that’s okay. I love working with people who care about what matters most: their faith, their kids, their families, milestones, and their craft. I enjoy working with the backbone of our economy: farmers, ranchers, small businesses. I enjoy helping people see their inherent value—which is often higher than they realize.
You wouldn’t believe how many dancers, athletes, and even professional models tell me, “I hate how I look in pictures,” or “Please get more of my left side… I can’t stand my right.” People tend to put so much pressure on themselves!
Photography is personal. When all eyes are on you, it can feel vulnerable. My job is to help people relax and enjoy the process. Even when it’s not a music session, I often ask about favorite songs to help clients think of their “happy zone.”
Sometimes music makes things feel more personal. Sometimes less. But either way, it helps me connect and helps my clients feel seen.
And that’s the point. Every person is uniquely created. Valuable. Worthy. Loved by a Creator who doesn’t make mistakes. I want people to feel that—even if I don’t say it outright. Even if they don’t share the same faith as me, my goal is to help them uncover that value that is so often subdued or twisted in our culture.
A Note to Fellow Music Lovers (And the Brave Ones Who Sing)
If you’re someone who sings in the car, leads worship, or is slowly building the courage to perform publicly like Sydney and Logan—this is your nudge: keep going.
Maybe you’re a songwriter with a half-finished chorus tucked away in your notes app… or that friend who told me months ago “I wrote a song!” but still hasn’t recorded it… or maybe you’re a worship leader looking to refresh your branding. Or a momma whose kids are in 4H and picking up instruments between chores.
Whoever you are, if music is your thing—and you’re looking for someone to capture that in a timeless, editorial way—I’d love to connect!
I’m all about capturing these milestones and harnessing a brand that you can run with via images.
What I’m Looking For Next
🎤 Musicians of all ages and instruments—especially those who blend faith and creativity
🎶 Teen singer-songwriters, sibling bands, or emerging Christian country artists
📸 4H kids, rodeo contestants, or ranch families with a love of music
💕 Anyone in need of album artwork, press kit portraits, or simply a heartfelt photo session that feels like home
(Please note: I’m not currently booking complimentary “modeling sessions” while I finish working on what’s already scheduled. These are rare and by invitation only—but paid sessions are always welcome! Just inquire on my website’s contact form.)
If you feel like our stories might align, reach out here and tell me about your sound, your story, or your small business.
Follow Sydney & Logan
Support this rising duo by following their musical journey over on Instagram:
📲 @sydneyandlogan.music and use the hashtag: #sydneyandloganmusic if you share pictures or videos of them live!
Their mom just set up their IG account and will be adding content soon—including performance clips, updates on their Erie gig, and behind-the-scenes rehearsal moments… and of course pictures from their session with HLP.
Heather Lilly Photography
Warm, editorial storytelling for families, creatives, and small businesses by Heather Lilly.
📍 Serving Greeley, Windsor, Erie, Johnstown, Loveland, and surrounding Northern Colorado towns—available for golden hour sessions across nearby plains and open country.
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