If you've never been to Manitou Springs, CO, I highly recommend you check it out. It's one of the best parts of this area. The shops are amazing (and a couple are owned by some of my friends), the people are friendly (and maybe a little "high" on life) and the overall tone of the town is relaxing. Not to mention the view is incredible. However, one of Manitou's big claims to fame is many areas of the small town are said to be haunted. This can make for a fun experience around Halloween, as I am sure you can imagine. One of it's best stories is the Legend of Emma Crawford.
See Emma had Tuberculosis. So she moved to Manitou Springs in hopes that the thin, clean air and the natural mineral springs there would help her to heal. For awhile it seemed to work and she started to live a relatively normal life. She even got engaged to a man named William Hildebrand. Emma was a sassy lass and she insisted on trying things that would stretch the limits of her TB. One of the things she accomplished was hiking up Red Mountain. When she got up there she declared that was where she wanted to be buried when the time came. Sadly, she died before her and William could be married. William was determined to give her that burial so he gathered a dozen men and they buried her up on Red Mountain.
However, during a severe storm, the land where she was buried began to wash away. Emma's coffin slid down the mountain and into the town of Manitou. Shocking the people of Manitou Springs. Now, her coffin rests peacefully in the Crystal Valley Cemetery ever since (and luckily she has stayed put). But it is said she still haunts the area.
So in celebration of Emma's descent down the mountain, every year the town of Manitou celebrates Emma with the coffin races. A full day of costumes, craziness and fun. The races are pretty amazing. 50 teams of four runners and one "Emma" (the rider) build and design their coffins and then parade them down main street before the race begins. The race consists of sets of with two teams at a time and the best time at the end of the day wins. The whole town comes together (along with people from all over) to gather together to listen to live music, dress in costumes, check out the races, shop and eat and enjoy life.
Here are some pictures that I caught of that awesome day! I hope you enjoy them as much as I enjoyed being there with my pals.
(BTW - this is my friends entry! I loved it)
GO LOUIS & LAURA!!!!
Maybe I'm biased but I think "The Flintstoners" were the cutest!
From the moment we started shooting, Brooke's three boys had me laughing hysterically. Her family has this way about them that just brings an absolute smile to your face. While shooting their family photos, their youngest was making a strange face. When I asked him, "hey buddy! What's up with that face you're making?" He replied with "I'm foxy!". I honestly wasn't sure I would make it through the rest of the session because I was laughing entirely too much. What a great response. It turned out later that he was referencing a character in a show he loved but, for me, I will forever refer to him as "foxy".
So much thanks to Brooke and her awesome hubby Brent for choosing me to shoot this years family photos and for being my first family session after moving back home. Here's some of the fun from that day:
Meet Foxy!
The Foxy Face!!!
My childhood friends embraced me very quickly. I even connected with a few who weren't my closest friends when we were younger but I can say have quickly become the very best people I have in my life! How incredible is that? I've gone on some magical adventures getting reacquainted with these mountains and it's been so amazing and so fun. I find myself whispering "look at how beautiful" or "man, how lucky are we that we get to live here" all of the time. I'm sure some of my friends are sick of hearing it but I can tell you it's a truly amazing place to live. I wish I could truly capture it's beauty with my camera but I keep thinking "yeah this isn't doing it justice" or "I don't think I'll ever capture every color in that sunrise the way I'm seeing it." I feel so completely blessed to live in such a stunning place.The scenery, the people, the animals, the overall feeling of being in a happy place has been so surprising and so comforting. I have felt more joy and love here than I can put into words. I am truly overwhelmed by the love and support I have gotten since arriving home. The greatest thing is that I am never bored. There is always something to do here. Go hiking, experience something new, balloon festivals, wolf encounters, deer in your front yard and so much more. So much has changed about this place since I last lived here. Some of the change is good and some of it is not so great. Small towns have grown into big cities (ya'll Woodland Park has a hospital and an aquatic center...WHAT??), the kids I grew up with are adults with kids in high school (I'm not that old so how is that a thing?) and there are tattoo shops and marijuana stores on just about every corner but the beauty of this place has remained, the sweet nature of the people has never changed and the overwhelming feeling I get of getting to live in one of the most beautiful places in the world is just awesome! The best gift is having the feeling that I am finally where I belong. I am home!
Here are a few pictures from my adventures here: (excuse some of the iPhone pictures but sometimes you gotta just live in your moments right?)
Dear Virginia,
You hold such amazing memories for me. You embraced me during a time when I was a young wife, mother of two amazing kids and starting over in a new place where I didn't know anyone. Your beautiful beaches provided playtime, a place to get away to think and many backdrops for beautiful photography sessions. I can't thank you enough for the awesome and amazing people you put in my life while I lived there. I met my mentor who taught me how to start a photography business and be successful at it. I met some talented and warm hearted friendors who embraced me and made me feel part of the wedding/creative community. Most of all I have made some truly amazing friends who are forever my family. I'm even thankful for the friendships that didn't last and the hardships I faced because they taught me some great lessons about myself and what I want from my life.
Thank you for being a great place for my kids to grow up, for being culturally diverse and full of adventure. They learned to accept people as people without labels. They became wonderful kids who contribute to this world in very positive ways. They both think of others and are passionate about helping those who can't help themselves.
Although it was time to say goodbye to your beautiful shores and the amazing people that live life here, please know I take a piece of you with me wherever I go. I'll come back to visit as often as I can and I will forever think of you with fondness and love.
Sincerely,
Kierstyn
Here are some highlights from my time in Virginia. I wish I could post all of the beautiful memories I have but these are some pretty awesome ones.
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Trust me when I tell you this was a HUGE decision for me. I've discussed it with everyone I love until everyone was sick of hearing it. I've pondered staying here, moving to Texas to be closer to my older sister and her children (and yeah Magnolia Market too), moving back to California and moving home to Colorado. I'm going to miss Hampton Roads. Virginia Beach has been my home for 12 years. I have made some incredible memories and friendships here. Friendships that have given me a more abundant "framily". I will pieces of each and every one of you with me when I go.
I'm in a very new chapter in my life. My son is grown, engaged to be married and starting his career. My daughter is graduating high school in June and will be joining the love of her life who is stationed in the same area as to the college she has chose (yup it's still somewhat of a secret but that reveal is coming soon). However, they are still my world and with those life changes for them comes new adventures like grandchildren, graduations, life changing events and I still just feel like I don't want to miss a thing.
To my wedding vendor and creatives community, I've been thinking what the right words to say could possibly be and the only thing I can come up with is Thank You SOOOO much! I've always felt uplifted, supported, encouraged, mentored, guided and welcome. I'm a better person for having all of you in my life.
So in the words of Skylar Gray "I'm coming home. I'm coming home. Tell the world I'm coming home!" I'm sad that this chapter of my life is closing. It's a huge change. However, I'm also really excited to start writing this next chapter. I get to write it on my terms and that's a big deal. I'm excited to reconnect with people I haven't been able to spend time with in many years. I'm happy to be close to my family and friends from back home. For my Hampton Roads friends, framily and clients, if you ever find yourself in Colorado, please get in touch. I'd love to show you some beautiful areas of the part of the country I truly love. My home!
Please look out for some really great promotions coming up not only for my Colorado folks but also for my Hampton Roads "peeps"! There are some HUGE announcements coming soon!!!
It was about a 5 hour drive, so we headed out about 5:30 in the morning and arrived about 11am. We immediately headed onto the trail. It was cold at first but the more we hiked the warmer it got. We were quiet for a lot of the hike because almost immediately we were mesmerized by all we were seeing on the trail. The water was so clear and pretty. The icicles were interesting and growing in the most unique spots. Some of the icicles were as thin as hair and growing on the ground. The trail is mostly a series of stairs made out of rocks so there was a lot of climbing involved. Our whole hike up we maybe saw one other group of people. It was amazing.
I'm typically pretty tied to my phone. I never let a message, text, email, etc. go unchecked. I was shocked when I noticed that we weren't even missing our phones. We were just enjoying each others company. I felt the tension lift off me. I was able to get to those deep thoughts in my mind. To breathe deeply. To pray in the quiet. It was exactly what my body and mind needed. When we finally got to the top of the hike we were so excited to have reached this beautiful waterfall. It was majestic. We stood there staring, clearing our minds, snapping a couple pictures and just enjoying the moment. Then, we started to head back down. We loved every moment of it. Even though we took the wrong way back down the trail.
When we got back on the road and decided to stop for lunch at this very colourful Mexican restaurant. I wish I had taken pictures because it was so cute. We enjoyed a quiet, unplugged lunch and then headed back out. We started seeing signs for the Natural Bridge and decided it would be fun to stop. Little did we know that meant getting lost near Jellystone Park (yup it really exists). It also meant we would be facing another hike and on the way back we would have to climb 37 stairs. About three weeks before this trip, I had decided to get serious about getting healthy. So two hikes in one day was a little bit of an overwhelming thought. However, we practically ran the whole hike of the Natural Bridge trail because they were closing within the half hour. The only part that had me upset were those daunting 37 stairs at the end of the trail back to our cars. My legs were like jello.
The best part of the day was getting reacquainted with quiet time. Learning it's okay to not answer everything immediately. People will wait and if they won't then they will find what they need from someone else and you know what? That's totally okay. I need time to reflect on my life, to pray to God for answers, forgiveness and love and to be still. It's imperative that I take care of, not just my body, but my soul too. Whether you believe in God or not doesn't matter. What matters is giving yourself the time to be still, be quiet and reflect so you can get the clarity you need.
Real Talk...I'm terrible at being still physically so hiking is a good way to be still in my mind. While I was out there I wasn't thinking about shoots, marketing, emails, texts or editing. I was thinking look at this beautiful world that we are missing by staring into our phones. I will admit I missed having my big girls camera with me for some macro shots that would have been amazing but I am glad I left it home so I could concentrate on everything around me.
I loved spending some great quality time with my dear friend, Sherrie, who has been a complete rock for me in recent months. It's very rare to find someone who totally let's you be yourself (warts and all) and even let's you cry when that's all you need. Friendship from any person is a gift because it's given freely. Nobody has to be your friend. They choose it. She's truly a treasured part of my life and I'm so glad we are friends. This hike reminded me what friendship means to me and how I need to get back to being the kind of friend I can be proud of. I have learned that my family and friends will be there long after this business and frankly they are the reason I do what I do. If I don't cultivate those relationships then my business is meaningless.
Here are some pictures from our trip. Please forgive the iPhone and Droid photos:
At the top of the friendor list is the very incredible Misty Prewitt of Misty Saves the Day. To say this girl SAVES MY DAY is an understatement. She is my marketing consultant by title but really she should go by business and life coach not to mention when it comes to these types of things she is the most calming force. She has brought a smile to my face in the darkest of days this past year. If you are ever looking for someone to help you grow your business in the best possible ways with the most raw and sincere honesty then I promise you she is exactly what you need.
A few months back, Misty and I sat down to discuss the future of my business and what direction I wanted to take it. She asked me about stylized shoots and did I have any ideas. I fired off a couple and she quickly told me...nope, no, been done and nu uh! (see there's that honesty) and then it struck me. A couple weeks before that, I had read an article that featured wedding decor out of the ordinary and one of the pieces that stuck out to me was a feather bouquet. Then, at a recent visit to the Virginia Zoo, I was over in the area where they have birds and it got me to thinking about our brides (and grooms for that matter) and how their weddings are sort of this great event that symbolizes them taking flight on the most amazing adventure that we all call marriage. It's not an easy thing to do and it takes hard work and dedication to accomplish it but the exhilarating feeling you get knowing you are not alone, getting to share those experiences with the person you love and the wonderful things you get to experience together make it all worth it. So I pitched a bird themed shoot to Misty and her face lit up and she said "Oh if it's about birds you know I'm down." Then she asked where I see it happening and I just couldn't envision anywhere other than the zoo. I expected the look of "not going to happen" but instead got "we can make that happen".
A few weeks ago, I submitted that bird themed shoot to Tidewater and Tulle. It was a project I felt pretty passionately about submitting, if for no other reason than the very talented vendors who contributed to this shoot deserved to be showcased. Misty pushed and pushed me (in all of the best and positive ways) to hit the submit button and yes I was procrastinating. Why? Because that voice was back telling me that there are photographers with far bigger names and far better talent than I. Why would a site as HUGE as Tidewater and Tulle want my work? Right? I knew I owed it to those great people that helped me to hit submit so I sucked it up, put on my big girl panties and hit the button. Enter that turn green, pit of my stomach, nauseated feeling....haha. The great thing about Tidewater and Tulle is they are awesome with communication. I just knew and prepared myself to receive the rejection email within a week.
Within a day I was receiving emails from them requesting a few more pictures to showcase certain aspects of the shoot and then the glorious email letting me know this project was going to be....FEATURED!!! I was over the moon excited. I couldn't call Misty fast enough...or my sister, or my bestie, or my daughter or well yeah pretty much anyone close to me. Keeping it a secret from my friendors was going to be so difficult!!!
What I learned from this process you ask? (ok maybe you didn't but I'm going to tell you anyway) I learned I can do anything with the support of my family and friends. I learned that I need to stop comparing myself to others out there and love my own story and my own talent. When it comes to photography, it's not just my job. It's my passion. A good friend of mine continually tells me that when she sees a camera in my hand, my smile is the biggest. That's very telling to me. I realized I am good enough! All of that self doubt and trepidation wasn't helping me achieve anything. That little voice wasn't encouraging me to succeed. It was only hindering me. Yes I do still have work to do but the minute I stop having work to do or growth to accomplish, I am going to quit doing this. I think that's true for anyone out there, whether you are a nurse, a dentist, a wedding vendor, a midwife, a calligraphist or whatever you feel passionate about doing. From me to you: You are doing the work! You are growing! Believe in yourself! You are enough!!!
Now can we talk about the greatness that was this shoot for a second? Misty, of course, coordinated the contributors and the day of for me so that I could concentrate entirely on taking pretty pictures. She even calmed my heart when I dropped a battery on one of my favorite lenses. Ashley at the Virginia Zoo took such great care of us. The zoo gave us full access so long as we kept an escort with us so we stayed in the proper areas so that staff was aware we were allowed to be there. Ashley was a trooper as I dragged her around the zoo and she waited patiently for each part to be completed. Then the amazing team of Sharon and Brittney of Chic Unique Vintage Rentals and Events swooped in and turned the zoo into my vision within minutes after having only a couple conversations with Misty and I. They brought the most unique pieces. Pieces that I never even thought of but once there couldn't have imagined not having. Brittney even climbed a tree for me. That simple and yet stunning cake that was featured? That was the very talented Whipped Up By Mimi. I'm so lucky I got to have her work on this project. All of that glittery, sparkly, completely gorgeous jewelry that you see showcased in various places on this shoot was provided by Either Ore Jewelry at Strawbridge. The whispy, colorful, beautiful florals were done by Fluttering Flowers who never ceases to inspire and amaze me. Misty found this wonderful lady out of South Carolina called S Squared Designs to design and make the gorgeous stationary. Somehow she found the perfect colors and the right layout for this shoot. Those sweet little personalized touches you see like those wooden feathers with the bride and grooms name on them were provided by the great people at Jollity & Co were the perfect addition. These guys are my go to shop for any great party. They have the greatest stuff in their shop. Did you see that absolutely amazing model of mine? That is the very talented and incredibly savvy Elizabeth Alfier of Behind the Veil Studio. Anyone who gets the opportunity to have their hair, makeup or both done by her is blessed. I know I am just having her in my life. She has been a godsend to me this year. Last but never least, that sweet little tea length dress that Liz is wearing was provided by Maya Couture. It was delicate and the lace pieces were so beautiful! I cannot thank Staci Jelly enough for helping us get such an awesome dress. To all of you that contributed, you absolutely rock my socks! Everything you put into this made me feel so important and so special. I felt so ready because I knew each of you had brought your amazing talent to the project. THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH!!!
Here are some pictures from that day. Some of which you may have seen on the Tidewater and Tulle blog and others are some of my personal favorites. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did taking them.
Despite all of that drama, I had an amazing visit with my sister who I really just want to live next door to and her beautiful family that I adore. She showed me an amazing time in Texas, as she always does. Even if that meant the majority of our time together was lying in her bed watching "Call the Midwife" episodes that we had both already seen. However, there were a couple days where we thought we felt relatively normal, so we took it upon ourselves to venture out.
One of the days that we were feeling less like death, we got brave and took the two hour drive to Waco. Why Waco you ask? Magnolia Market, of course! I was so excited I could hardly stand it. I bundled up in my hoodie and jeans and snow boots only to arrive in Waco to a 78 degree day. It was gorgeous!!! Magnolia Market was AMAZING!
Heather and I started at Magnolia Silos Bakery. With a line growing outside we knew we had to hurry. Heather was after a specialty muffin with bacon and such called "The Prize Pig" and I wanted to try their Lemon Lavender cupcake. For the line being as long as it was, it went quick and we were in and out in no time. Oh and that cupcake...HEAVENLY! But are you at all surprised??? I surely wasn't.
So after finishing the bakery experience, we headed into Magnolia Market. It's overwhelming at first. People were everywhere, even the day after Christmas, but it wasn't at all crowded. Like I anticipated, I found myself wanting to buy all of the things. However, most importantly and quickly a t-shirt proudly hosting "#shiplap" because well you go, you experience and you buy the t-shirt but also because my fever was seeping back in and it was near 80 degrees and I was in a hoodie and snow boots. I was determined not to let a little fever bother me. I bought a hat and some really adorable retro photography posters for my office (sorry no pictures of those yet).
Then we headed outside. Y'all...it's stunning. The silos were filled with Christmas trees to be sold for the holidays. The yard was full of families playing with the awesome toys they provide and laying in the sun. The food trucks lined the outskirts of the property. The sweet little garden shop was so cute and fun to look around. Best of all was just spending the day there with Heather. It was way more than I ever thought it would be.
On the way out of town, we stopped for lunch and then to this great shop called Spice, which oddly had no spices at all. It was full of awesome antiques, crafts, clothes, etc. Then it dawned on both of us, the fevers were back and we needed to get back to home and to bed. We had a blast. We didn't even care that we were sick just wanted to lay down after a great day in Waco.
On some of our other adventures, I got to see the Dallas Cowboys Training Center and was actually impressed. That's saying something considering I'm not a Cowboys fan. The fact that they have opened the training center for local high schools to use is very impressive to me. That the players including that Dak guy...frequent the area and visit with fans with a smile. As a matter of fact, my nieces friend took pictures with him for Instagram while she was working at Sonic while I was there. I saw some cool restaurants that are decorated so fun and rustically that photographers shoot there all of the time.
What I loved most about this trip was that I got to see my niece and nephews, my sister and her hubby and spend time with them, which just doesn't happen near enough. I got to meet my nieces' pet pig, Oakely, who is just as cute as she can be and so sweet. I got to laugh when I embarrassed my nephew and irritated my brother-in-law by saying inappropriate things. At the end of the day, my family is what matters most to me and, as dysfunctional as we can be, we love each other immensely. I got to get to know small pieces of them and their lives that I have missed by being so far away. That was the very best part of this trip!!!
Here are some pictures of our adventures! Enjoy!
Sweet little fairy gardens at the Garden Shop
Heather and I at Magnolia Market
My big (little) sister is better than yours
The Dallas Training Center was pretty impressive!
How is my niece cute when she's sick?? Look at my handsome nephew playing board games with us!
Meet Oakley
My sisters beautiful family!
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When my father passed away four years ago, my sister and I sat with boxes and boxes of family candid photos. We were able to pull out 20 photos of my dad. Of those twenty photos, four were of he and I, four or five were of my sister and him and two of them were of my whole family together. This was so sad to me. Why didn't we take the time to document him in our lives. I looked through those same boxes recently and noticed the photos of my mom are even smaller in numbers. This really struck me. I don't remember what I got for Christmas in 1984. I do remember my Uncle ringing sleigh bells outside my window. I remember laughing and playing with my cousins. I remember my parents singing for all of our family and friends. Those memories hold stronger meaning to me than any cabbage patch or party dress ever could have.
Take some time at the end of every year to celebrate another year and all you accomplished or came through that year. Celebrate your child's milestones, your milestones or even overcoming some hardships. Life is there to be embraced and celebrated. Remember what the season is about. What is most important to you, that gift of this or that under the tree or memories shared with the ones you love. Not to mention....photos make great gifts for your family and close friends. Who doesn't love getting a great holiday card with pictures of the people you care about inside? I know I do.
So go out and find your favorite local photographer (pick me, pick me) and schedule that photo session. I promise you will be glad you did. Happy Holidays!!!
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Jenna let me know she was expecting right away. I have shot her family a few times now and they are very precious to me. If you know Jenna even a little bit, it should come as no surprise that she wanted a natural, home birth. When she asked me to be present and capture the birth of her newest addition and her first home birth I was ecstatic. This was a no brainer...OF COURSE I would be there!!! Her family is so sweet and I have loved spending time with them during our shoots.
We met for her maternity session and we discussed what to expect the day she goes into labor. She told me the baby would come fast once hard labor began, that she would go into labor almost exactly on her due date and that her babies ran around 7 lbs. or so. However, we all know if you tell God your plans he will laugh at you. That is just exactly what happened in the case of little Boone Thayer Popham.
Boone came into this world in the water being caught by his mom and dad both with Jenna's midwives Zaina and Ryan (Sacred Midwifery) close at hand to take over if they were needed. He took his sweet time and came at his own pace. He came almost two weeks late, he was Jenna's longest labor at around 7 hours and he was a whopping 9 pounds, 4 ounces and 22 inches long. Toulouse cut his umbilical cord only after it stayed attached long enough for him to get every bit of vital blood that Boone could get from it. His oldest sister, Eliza (8 years old), was present in the room and shortly after he arrived his other sisters, Odette (4 years old) and Iselle (2 years old), came in to meet him. There's no doubt in my mind this little lad is going to be fiercely loved and protected by his three doting older sisters who adored him from the minute they laid eyes on him. Zaina and Ryan did Boone's first vitals and statistics after he had his first skin to skin contact with both mom and dad and had a little time to just be in the world.
Here are some photos from that very special day.
Sarah and Padraic decided on a Groom's first look. Sarah was dressed in the most beautiful lace David Tutera gown with a blush underlining. Padraic was dressed in a khaki tuxedo with a dark blue tie and a dark blue and white plaid pocket square. They were both as nervous as could be but not about getting married to each other. More just about having their day be all that they had wished for. Once they saw each other, all of that stress seemed to melt away and they were able to focus on what was important. Family and each other.
It was important to Padraic that they get to exchange their vows under the arches that he built for them. The rain was threatening to ruin that moment for them. Then, as if it was fate and literally just a few minutes before the ceremony was set to begin, the clouds and rain passed and allowed them to have their moment as they had planned right on the water in Cape Charles at the beautiful The Oyster Farm at Kings Creek in front of all of their family and friends, including their three amazing children.
The best part was the laid back reception in which they shared so much laughter, tears, love and friendship with everyone. Not to mention the fabulous Irish dancing by Padraic's daughter and niece and eventually much of their family. My favorite part may have actually been the guestbook bench that Sarah's dad built. What better way to remember their union than to have all of the people they love sign a bench that their little family can sit on for years and years to come. The whole thing made me wish I was a Donnelly for sure. It was a great time and I am so glad I got to be witness to and be a small part of it.
Kudos to:
Dress: L & H Bridal (David Tutera gown)
Shoes: Badgley Mischka
Florist: Seagrass Floral Studio
Hair & Makeup: Michelle and Katey of 76 Salon
Cigars: Primo Cigars
Second Shooter: Dee Akright Photographers
Despite all the downpour of rain, some makeup disasters and the cutest two year old meltdown, Lia and Michael had a beautiful wedding filled with laughter and love at the Oceanaire Resort Hotel! They were surrounded by some of the closest friends and family. They had two incredible American Sign Language interpreters to interpret the wedding ceremony and reception for their hearing impaired guests, which was a really beautiful thing to see. It gave a different perspective to something I, as a photographer, get to see all of the time. It was special and unique.
The photo booth and dance floor were constantly full of life. I am so honored to be witness to the beginning of their new adventures together.
Hair and Makeup: Beauty by Deja
Dress: David's Bridal
Second Shooter: Dee Akright Photographers
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So many of my clients have anxiety about family sessions. What to wear, where to shoot, when to shoot, what if the kids don’t cooperate. I wanted to take a minute to try to make it a little easier for all of you by giving you some tips and tricks for what I think makes a successful family photo session. After years of family sessions, these are the things I have found that, if thought through, make your session go a lot more smoothly. Of course, when all else fails ask for advice. I’m here to help you find the right location or determine the right time of day and all of the rest.
Scheduling: The best times of day to have the ideal light setting are the first hour following sunrise and the last hour leading up to sunset. These times are known as the “Golden Hour”. Meaning the light is optimal for photos. I highly recommend to all of my clients that we shoot within those parameters to get the best results. I realize that time of day may not be the most convenient time for a your family. Especially if you have little ones on a strict schedule. Most photographers can be sympathetic to that and can suggest areas that will have areas of shade that will make shooting during a high sun time possible.
Location Selection: When thinking about what area you want to have your photo shoot, I would suggest thinking about what would best represent you and your family's personalities. The best advice I can give you is to take into consideration if the location has things you could potentially be allergic to, insects you’re opposed to and if there are fees associated with shooting there. If you have little one’s, I would also suggest thinking about if the area is fun for little ones so that they are making a memory not just taking a picture. My goal is always for a family to look at a picture years later and smile thinking what a great time it was. Not just "oh yeah we had pictures taken that day." If you aren’t sure where to go or what may work best, ask your photographer for suggestions. They will no doubt have a great ideas that will work best for your family.
Outfit Selection: I’ve noticed over the years that the question of what to wear seems to be the most difficult for most families. The days of the whole family wearing white shirts and khaki bottoms are long gone. I tell my clients to mix it up. Get a good color pallette and rock it. For example, different shades of dark red with accents of yellow, green, black. I definitely suggest keeping the patterns to a minimum. I would also suggest staying away from tops with characters on them. Too many patterns and/or character clothing can be distracting in photos. Layers, accessories and matching shoes are always great additions to the clothing party. Make sure to lay out your clothes the night before. That will eliminate hunting for them the morning of. Most of all, don’t be afraid to get bold. Have fun with it.
Rest and Relaxation: Make sure everyone gets a good nights sleep. Nothing makes a shoot harder then sleepy, grumpy people. I strive to make sure we are laughing and having fun during one of my family sessions. That won’t work if kids are tired and parents are stressed. Lack of sleep can do that.
I like to tell parents is not to stress the kids smiles. They will come. I’ll make silly faces at them, talk to them about their favorite stuff (I’m pretty fluent in Doc McStuffins and Paw Patrol and all things Nemo) and if we let them be themselves then their inner sun will shine. It’s okay for parents to take a step back and let the photographer gain some common ground. Of course, it also helps if mom/dad/auntie/uncle stand behind the photographer and coax little ones to look in the right direction too. Just let the photographer tell you what he/she needs from you. Trust that you hired a professional who has done this before.
It’s also not a bad thing to bring the bribery. I’m not above bribing a smile out of kid. Bubbles, a trip for ice cream after, some tv time or maybe there’s a shot your moody teen wants in exchange for cooperating. Whatever works right?
Clean and Tidy: So there’s nothing worse than a family arriving to their shoot with a toddler covered in sticky lollipop goo all over their face, hands and clothes that you took all of that time to pick out for your shoot. Make sure they’ve had a good lunch that day. Give them snacks that clean up easy if they are in between meals and may be getting hungry just before a shoot. If you want to use treats for picture bribery I always suggest fruit snacks. They tend to be less messy and come on who doesn’t love a fruit snack?!
The most important thing is that you scheduled this shoot to celebrate this time of your life. You want to remember tiny hands, your teens last year at home, that inch and a half they grew this year or maybe it’s just that you made it another year. It doesn’t matter what it’s for. What matters is that you are enjoying it. You should be smiling, giggling and even laughing. Enjoy your family time because life changes constantly and it changes in a blink of an eye. Love the time you are in. I promise to do my best to bring that out in all of you but I can’t do it alone. You have to come on the adventure with me.
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Michael Ann and Tyler are so in love and are truly the greatest friends to each other. They laugh and love hard. It’s a joy be witness too. What’s even better is the larger than life personalities in both of their families. It made for a day full of fabulous facial expressions and lots of emotions.
The ceremony was full of funny mishaps including Michael Ann tripping her father as they started down the aisle (while he was doing his best to get her down the aisle on crutches after literally slipping on a bar of soap in the shower the week before), forgetting how to tie the knot in their knot ceremony and laughing at an officiant who may have confused their names. These funny moments will be great memories for them for years to come.
The light was perfect for portraits following the ceremony where I took their closest family out for some memorable shots and some that were just down right funny. Then we sent everyone away and just let them enjoy some quiet time together to get some beautiful photos and to let their union soak in.
The reception was gorgeous with beautiful pink Juliette roses and blue Hydrangeas provided by the talented Courtney Inghram. The father/daughter dance had most of the room in tears including me standing next to her mom bawling right along with her. The mother/daughter dance had everyone in stitches as Ty and his mom literally shook their tail feathers. Most of the night was spent dancing and enjoying each other. Lots of fist pumps, dramatic group singalongs and fantastic moments shared with their closest family and friends.
For me, this wedding will definitely go down as one of my favorite weddings of all time. What made it so great was an amazing couple starting their adventure together, the incredible Angel Dibbs Photographer by my side helping me make sure we got every shot we needed and being my truest friend by pep talking me through, the talented Courtney Inghram for her gorgeous flowers, Croasdaile Country Club staff including the ever patient and accommodating Dylan and the amazing DJ Leslie Furness who pumped great music out and kept things flowing all night long! All weddings take a team, a village and sometimes an army. This one had the perfect combination.
Hair and Makeup By: Jodi Galeazzo at Bella Trio
Dress: Maya Couture
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When Anne announced to the world that she was expecting, I was over the moon excited for her. I knew this was something she has been wanting for a long time now. She and Frank are going to be amazing parents. I have no doubts about that. So shooting her the gender reveal party for her baby was a no brainer for me. I was so stoked. This girl gives back to our community all of the time. How could I not want to be there for her and her family?
When I walked in I noticed how cute everything she had setup for this event was. Waterford Event Rentals provided the linens and Anne (with a little help from her friendors and family) did the rest herself. Everything was absolutely adorable. Anne wore a to die for dress by Pink Blush that she looked simply radiant in. Frank and I were talking about what he thought the gender the baby could be before the party and he said "well I think it may be a sign that all of the blue balloons are popping outside but none of the pink one's are gone". No doubt it was a sign because when it came time for the BIG moment and Frank and Anne stood in front of friends and family and popped that big black balloon the pink confetti came pouring out.
Anne's excitement was totally infectious, as was Franks. Anne immediately began jumping up and down and then became just a little overwhelmed by the news and hugged Frank. What a beautiful moment to witness. That pure joy of knowing all of your dreams are coming true. That little Savannah Grace Goessling will be a profound addition to this beautiful little family and, judging by the people gathered to celebrate with Frank and Anne, she will be one very loved little girl! I am so happy for them and so grateful to have been there to witness this next step in their adventure together.
Congratulations to you and your entire family!
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Meet Anna (she studied Cultural Anthropology with a minor in Herbalism at Denver Metro) and Sara (her expertise is in Earthworks: gardens, permaculture and whole systems design within these realms. She holds four permaculture certifications). These sisters own and operate Anna's Apothecary together. So needless to say they are on top of their game when it comes to owning a business like this. They are from my hometown of Woodland Park, CO and we went to high school together. I can't say we were close friends but in a small town like ours used to be, everyone knows each other. In our small town, we all have tried our best to support each others endeavors and I have felt so much support from my former classmates that I wanted to pay that forward. When the idea came to me to start highlighting small businesses around the Colorado Springs area, they were the first I thought of. When I approached Sara with the idea, she didn't even skip a beat. She told me to come on by and go for it.
I'll be honest, I didn't know what to expect. I mean, what's an Apothecary anyway? I knew a little from a talk Sara and I had at our reunion a few years back but not enough to help educate anyone. This is going to sound awful but, in full honesty, I actually thought it would be a dark, sort of dingy place that smelled of patchouli and not enough soap. Let me tell you, my eyes were opened immensely just by walking to the door. This place is a little magical and a lot of healing! It's bright and beautiful and wonderful!!! I had arrived in town just a day or two before and had been on the go from the time I landed. The minute I walked into the Apothecary, there was just this overwhelming peaceful feeling that came over me and something that told me to slow down and enjoy my time there.
So, after photographing the Apothecary, I sat down with these beautiful women and picked their brains. They educated me on lots of things that day and I wanted to share some of it with all of you. I wish I could share it all with you but that would make this blog WAY too long and besides you should drop in and meet them and hear what they are all about yourselves. I will tell you that I didn't leave Anna's empty handed. I purchased a cough syrup for my son who had a horrible cough from the moment he got to Colorado Springs and a tincture for my allergies. Both of these things, worked amazingly well. I hope you take something away from this blog and if you are currently in or ever get the chance to visit the Colorado Springs area, I HIGHLY recommend you stop by. Please tell them I sent you.
1. What is the mission for Anna's Apothecary?
- The mission for us is to empower people toward wholeness and wellness. Guiding people to "heal thyself", as well as, inspiring herbal remedies to the mainstream.
2. What would you want someone who's never been to an apothecary to know about yours?
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That this is a place of healing. It is a place of understanding and wellness; guided by organic, powerful and wholesome herbal remedies. Most of all that we care deeply for our clientele. (I can tell you this was very apparent to me as I just sat back and observed these two interact with their customers that came in while I was there. They could have just asked each person what they were coming in for and handed them something based on their face value answer but instead they took their time with every customer, asked questions and helped them find what would work best for them)
3. Why would someone want to choose an Apothecary over modern medicine?
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Herbalism is generally very safe. It has few side effects and the benefits are that they can help bring the body into balance. They are affordable and accessible, as well as, powerful and effective.
4. Can you explain exactly what a tincture is?
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A tincture is a highly concentrated herbal extract. We use a 190 proof, pharmaceutical grade, organic cane alcohol to extract the herbal properties. They have a shelf life of about 45 years! (Can you imagine having a medication that is all natural, didn't contain poisons and didn't have to be tossed after 3 months?)
5. Do you offer any types of Community Outreach and/or education? If so, what do you offer?
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Yes! We offer monthly classes on various Herbal Remedies, which include lecture and lab. We, also, frequently donate to individuals and events.
6. What does the future look like for Anna's Apothecary?
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We are putting greater effort into the growing side of things on my 400 acres of land.
7. Who were the strongest influences for both of you?
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Anna: My strongest influences are my Professor at Metro, Dr. Linda White and Rosemary Gladstar
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Sara: A varying group of mentors who have graced my life since my 20's to include Becky Elder: Blue Planet Earthscapes, gardening and permaculture mentor; Larry Stebbins: Pikes Peak Urban Gardens for gardening, farming and biodynamics; Erik Running: Solidarity of Hope Community and Community Gardens; Susan Gordon: Head Farmer and Director of Venitucci Farm and all around bad ass, no nonsense, activist, organic farmer and leadership mentor. As well as, countless other farmers and community activists.
8. For those that can't make it to Manitou often, is it possible to order from you online?
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Absolutely! Please visit us at: http://annasapothecary.com/
I wish nothing but the very best to these beautiful women. I look forward to visiting them every chance I get.
The wedding was decorated in beautiful, vibrant purples and bright blues. Knikeya's dress wasn't traditional in that it was knee length and there was no veil but that doesn't mean it was any less elegant. It had these gorgeous accents and when she twirled it flew up in the sweetest way. Her shoes and jewelry sparkled like the crown jewels and her make up was flawless. The colors and patterns in Charles' bow tie, boutonniere and pocket square were so different but also coordinated everything together absolutely perfectly. His beard was perfectly groomed and his smile was wide.
Their ceremony included the tradition of sharing communion but also something new (at least to me) of building a cross together. I thought this was a beautiful moment and spoke volumes of how their shared faith is an anchor in their relationship. It was a perfectly timed ceremony and one of my favorite parts was watching all of the guests outstretch their hands towards the happy couple to bless their union. It spoke volumes to the support they have behind them.
The reception was literally full of laughter, dancing and friendship. I'm almost positive the bride and groom stopped and chatted with each guest and had us take pictures of them with each guest that they could. Yet they still found time to dance their hearts out, laugh loudly, enjoy their toasts and completely celebrate their special moments. I don't think I will ever forget finally getting a smile out of her Dad (he was a very serious man) and her sweet, gorgeous Grandmother asking me to take a photo with her disposable camera (which I of course obliged).
I wish for them a lifetime of love, so much laughter their sides hurt, health and blessings! I thank them for allowing Angel and I to be a small part and a witness to their very special day.
Please enjoy some of the pictures we took that day. So much thanks to my amazing second shooter, Angel Marie Dibbs for always backing me up, convincing me to let her (ok demanding) take photos in the weeds and for rolling with my crazy.
We walked around the Hunt Club Farm and I let him dictate his session. I find when you are working with little guys that's the best way. They will find their happiness and give you all those million dollar smiles when you are patient and give them the space they need. Yes we had some posed shots to take but quite honestly we put him in the situation and let him determine how it was going to go. Every photo you see is just Braydon being his true, beaming, sunshiny self. We even were blessed with a small rafter of turkeys cut through one of our shots and we just went with it.
I think my favorite part of this session was as we were waiting for the sun to set just a little further down in the sky. We had set Braydon on the ground to sort of play and be himself while his parents and I chit chatted about life. All the while I laid on the ground with my camera up close to my face and pointed towards Braydon. I didn't want to miss a moment and I am so glad I didn't. This baby loved dirt so much that he began eating it...which we pretty much anticipated. However, I thought he would take one taste and spit it out and be done. Nope! That baby loved his dirt and ate bite after ...um...delicious(?) bite. Krista (mama) encouraged me to keep snapping away because that's who Braydon is and capturing who he is was the point of celebrating his first year.
As we ended our session, Krista and Jared let me know they are being transferred out of the area. This is the hardest part of loving to photograph our military families. Seeing my favorite families move away. I hope our paths cross again someday Willer Family! It has been an absolute joy capturing some of your moments in the last year. XOXO
This is a photo from that session almost one year ago.
and sometimes digging in the dirt is more fun than watching your daddy jump around like a monkey
Braydon says "hey girl hey! Yeah I know I'm cute"
Dancing Baby
Mommy has the quick magic after a tiny stumble
Check out that sweet turkey
Oh look....DIRT!
Wait...did you see that Turkey????
Daddy has the quick magic, as well!
This baby loved him some tractor (don't worry mama was hanging onto him the whole time)
YUMMY YUMMY
"What mama? I'm not doin' nuffin"
This sweet boy is full of laughter, love and sunshiny happiness! What a blessing!
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Meet the Clauser's (Holly, Jeremy, Christina and Nate)
Jeremy and Christina have the best smiles, don't they?
Meet Mr. Nate who loves his car and made the most hysterical face every time I told him to smile! (this is the face)
Sweet Miss Holly who made me fall in love with her free spirit and curls (and can you see those beautiful eye lashes)
Because sometimes it's just time to jump around!
and run up and down a hill repeatedly
Daddy's Little Girl through and through
Sometimes that lovely shot takes one....two...
THREE SHOTS
and then you just embrace the crazy
So much thanks to this beautiful family for their sacrifices and service to our country and for supporting my small business!
When Rob married Sherrie it all came full circle. They make a beautiful blended family. Sherrie has become like a sister to me and all of their children are so full of personality, which makes for an even tighter bond between our families. We have faced a lot over the last few years ranging from day to day life up to life threatening surgeries and very scary moments. Through it all we find it just second nature to support one another. I hope they know just how much we love them and that we will always be there whenever they need us.
When Sherrie asked me take family pictures of them, it was more than a given. I was excited. Now getting Uncle Buttface to smile might prove a challenge but I was sure I was up for the job and I did succeed for at least a few of them. Here are a few of my favorite pictures from that day.
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My dad was rough. He was rough from start to finish. He struggled with so many things throughout his life from abuse in his own childhood home, failed marriages and friendships, failed life goals, a lot of self loathing and just trying to figure out his place in this world. He once told me he had a lot to be ashamed of. My dad was an addict and that addiction made him a thief, a liar and abusive. He had so many larger than life stories that you never knew where the lies ended and the truth began. I could lay out all of his offenses but he's gone and what good would that accomplish. I finally gave up trying to sift through it all after his passing and realized that all that was apart of who he was.
I was angry with him for a really long time. I wanted a different dad. I wanted the one who went to a job every day and helped my mom. I wanted the kind of dad that I could be proud of. That went to church, held his wife's hand and took care of his family. It wasn't okay with me that he wasn't the dad I wanted. That my sisters and I deserved. The husband that my mom should have had.
Once I had my own children, I saw a different side to my dad. The one who always struggled getting clean and never achieved it. The one who loved with his whole heart and the depth of those feelings ran so deep that he would often get emotional. The man who fought depression. The Dad who bought me a piece of Elvis Presley memorabilia after every argument we had to show me that no matter what I did to upset him, he still loved me. The one who would give a friend the shirt off of his back and all of the one's in the drawers (no literally he would and it drove my mom crazy). He took in the strays, the one's who had no family, needed to get clean or needed a second chance (this also drove my mom crazy). I think he saw so much of himself in them and he wanted to give them a chance. The one who, once we finally got honest with each other, became my rock, my friend and the most amazing grandfather to my children than I would've ever thought possible.
When he was diagnosed with a fatal illness that stemmed from some of his rough lifestyle choices, I ran the gammat of emotions from denial, anger and acceptance. My life changed. I decided every moment I had with him would be spent laughing, talking and being real with each other. I wanted him to get the most out of his final days...whatever that meant. Even when it meant fighting with my mom about whether he should eat a hearty meal versus that bowl of dreamsicle ice cream he loved even though it wasn't good for him. I struggled even more when we had to decide to put him into an assisted living facility because I just knew I was somehow letting him down. The day my sister called to tell me that time was way too quickly approaching that he would be gone, I looked at Eric with a face full of tears and he (in his most understanding way) said "Get in the truck. Let's go" and that sweet husband of mine drove 90 miles an hour almost the whole way to get us there in time. My sister and I sat holding his hands and telling him it was okay to go when he took his very last breath. It truly was the most heartbreaking moment of my adult life. What I failed to see at the time, was how blessed I was to have been given those last moments to forgive out loud, to talk it out and to tell him I loved him.
People have asked me over the years (MANY TIMES) how I could love a man who was so rough and want to make his final days the best I could. The answer is simple. He was my Dad. He loved me in the ways that he knew how. He's the man who, when everyone else was watching the parade at Disneyland, rode on Pirates of the Caribbean with me over and over again and each time pointing out something new and laughing at the top of his lungs (I can still hear that laugh and it still makes me smile). He raised me to see the beauty in the every day. He's the guy who when I had a problem at school rode his Harley into the Principal's Office (not up to but IN to). He was the man who told me to marry my best friend and then strapped on his chaps and rode all night long when he found out that Eric was throwing me a surprise wedding so that he could be there to walk me down the aisle (right after he tried to talk Eric out of marrying me - ha ha). He gave me a love of music, being tickled until it hurts, to believe and stand tall for our country and God (even though he struggled himself with his own faith). He always tried to teach me wrong from right. I can still hear his words "Don't end up like me Kierstyn. Learn from my mistakes." Lastly, he is the one who loved my children with literally all he had and his final word was to my son when we arrived to say good-bye to him. It was just a simple "hi" but it meant everything to my boy who looked at his Papa as his best friend.
So no matter how hard he was for lots of other people to love (and yes I completely understand why), I loved him and I loved him in that BIG, HUGE, up to the sky kind of love!!! So I honor a man who raised me, who loved me and who, when I needed him, was always there for me. He was so perfectly imperfect. He was crazy, beautiful!
What I learned from him was to love my children and to discipline them with a protective hand instead of a heavy one, to stay away from drugs because the addiction gene runs strong in my family, to be outrageous and try things at least once, to enjoy the adventure that is life, to fill your life with friends and family who love you and to accept people without judgement because you never know their story.
Thanks for letting me get real with you. Being myself is the best thing I can do for myself and for all of you. Here are some pictures that make me smile and remember the good stuff.
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To say I adore this little girl is putting it mildly! To call her a little girl anymore is truly stretching it. She's a gorgeous young lady with an incredible heart and a beautiful soul. We set out for her "just because" and headshot shoot just the two of us. It's rare that I get this chance one on one but I gotta say I love it. That time let's the person be who they are and helps me to keep them on point. We had an absolutely fabulous time together. We drove all over Virginia Beach and shot in the places we thought would best suit her.
You will notice there are pictures of her on an abandoned train and some train tracks. These are NOT live tracks and that is the only way I would've taken these shots. (DISCLAIMER: It is unsafe and illegal to shoot on live tracks)
See, Gwenny is a dancer. A very talented dancer with so much love for dance that it just radiates. Her passion is ballet but she loves it all. She's smart, funny, sassy, elegant, coordinated (which I am soooo not), inquisitive and just an all around joy to be around. She also shared with me her love of photography. She showed me some shots she's taken with her iPhone and I just have to say...she's got a great eye. I mean I kinda want to be her when I grow up. If this girl isn't your bestie...she should be.
Her mom let me know she wanted a shoot that showed the world she is more than just a dancer. We chose to go a little edgier with parts of this shoot and a little softer in other areas to make sure we got both sides of her personality. I absolutely love the results and Gwenny and her family did too! I can't wait to see where in the world her dancing takes her and how high she flies when she spreads her wings but for now I'm just enjoying watching her grow into the incredible woman she is already starting to be.
Here are some of my favorite shots from her shoot. I hope you love them!
I had so much fun during their shoot. We had some shyness and one short meltdown (which is totally to be expected with little ones) and then the fun began thanks to a sweet little lady bug that Eliza found and gave to Odette. That ladybug saved our day. Once Odette had that ladybug she was all smiles for me and for the camera. Isselle found a pine cone to keep her heart happy. Miss Eliza was just comfortable in front of the camera and loving on her sisters.
I thoroughly enjoyed watching these girls play and interact with each other and their loving Mama. I hope you enjoy their pictures as much as I enjoyed taking them.
Meet Miss Eliza - Biggest Sister and proud of it!
Then there is Miss Odette - no middle child syndrome here. She's full of life.
Last but by no means least is Miss Isselle (Izzy) with all of her quiet demeanor
and here are some of the fun shots we got of them all together
Lady Bug Love
What's a fun photo shoot without a piggy face
or sticking out your tongue
Or jumping on Mama
I tell you all of this to explain why I get so excited when I get to photograph dancers. Especially the tiny dancers whose talent is just beginning to shine through. For the last year or so, I have had the immense honor to photograph a set of these girls. It all started with a very talented little girl named Gwendalynn (whom by the way I will be shooting in a couple weeks so be watching for her blog) and it has grown from there. The two little ladies featured in this blog are very special to me. There bond with each other is very sweet to watch. They lift each other up and they tell each other the absolute truth (even if it hurts a little). They have very supportive parents who encourage their love of dance every step of the way.
I hope you enjoy these pictures. I surely enjoy watching the two of them giggle and dance. Most of all I love how you can see the joy in their faces when they are dancing. It's apart of their soul and it's a beautiful thing. Dance tiny dancers....dance!!!!
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As she began growing into the beautiful, young lady that she is today, she performed in pageants and has always done so incredibly well. She has a presence about her that just draws people in. Not to mention a killer personality!
When Sasha's mom called me to get some shots of Sasha so she could begin an acting career, I was not surprised at all! It was such fun to traipse through the woods with this kid and get some fun pictures of her. Some that are serious and some that truly show her hilarious sense of humor. I hope you enjoy these pictures as much as I enjoyed taking them. She's an incredible girl and I cannot wait for the day I can say...I knew her when!
We hit the worst traffic I think I have ever seen at the oceanfront and on top of that there was this crazy, random fog that rolled in. I started to panic. How in the world was I going to finish this session in the fog??? That was IF we could make it there before the sun had disappeared. Luckily, I figured out a great spot away from the oceanfront and the fog hadn't completely engulfed it so we were able to get some good shots down by the water.
All in all, it ended up being a fun senior session with a great kid with plans to join the military after he graduates next month. Landon we wish you nothing but the best for your future. Congratulations on graduating Class of 2015.
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Matt has spent the last 17 years of his life dedicated to serving his country. He's worked his way up the ranks one step at a time. While serving his country and doing what he needed to do, he still found time to get an education. He was able to get attain his Bachelor's Degree of Science in Marketing and will receive his Master's Degree in Supply Chain and Acquisitions Management in May. Did I mention he is also a loyal and faithful family man with a wonderful wife Kim who he has been married to for 13 incredible years and three amazing children, Sydney (17), William (13) and Brady (7). It wasn't a huge surprise when Kim told me he was being commissioned. I mean, after all, look at the kind of man that he is and the example he has consistently shown to his fellow shipmates.
Then Kim gave me a bonus. She had a "special guest" that would be in attendance. Just so happens it was a celebrity and one I am a fan of. Mr. Tony Lucca was a member of Disney's Mickey Mouse Club many years ago and more currently was a contestant on The Voice. I have loved his music for sometime now and was super excited to get to meet him and super excited for Kim and Matt (who are SUPER FANS) of his. What a cool thing to have this great musician be apart of their special moment. It was a cool moment to meet Tony but an even cooler moment when he sang a song that he wrote for Kim and Matt called "The Wife of a Sailor". Check it out here:
It was a beautiful, symbolic ceremony aboard the USS Wisconsin and a great time had by all at the wetting down at the really great little place called the Smartmouth Brewery. The cake was made by Carolina Cupcakery and the catering was provided by Kim and Matt's neighbor, Tony Camacho who has a service called Personal Chefs In A Box. I highly recommend both of these vendors. The food provided was absolutely delicious and well laid out. Many thanks to Kim and Matt for allowing me to capture this special day for them and for allowing me to be a very small part in their life story. They are now in the process of packing up to move to the West Coast. I am very sad to see them go but I know, without a doubt, that we will stay in touch. These aren't just clients of mine. These are my friends. Fair winds and following seas to the Compton Family as they start this next adventure.
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Velata started out as just a chocolate fondue that didn't require fire and it was good. I mean REALLY good. What I loved most about it is that it was (and still is) a safe fondue for children. However, recently they have relaunched the brand and it includes some incredible stuff. Yes they still have their yummy, yummy chocolate, but they also have meltables, cheese, a FANTASTIC and OMG so easy to use crepe maker and a few other things that are kind of to die for if you are a foodie (which let me just say I am not). It also allows for some great clean eating which is something I know my family has been trying to get better at.
I don't want to go on too much of a tangent on a product line that I don't sell but I did want to at least introduce you to something new, different, fun and safe for our families. I sincerely hope you will at least check it out. Velata is ran by men and women that you know and love. It's what I consider small business and I am all about small business and supporting small businesses in my community. What I love is that this is a job that allows you to be home with your family if that is your goal. If you are interested in the product line or seeing what they have to offer give Kristen Savee a call. She is one of the sweetest, most passionate about her job and wonderful people I know. Her website is savee.velata.us
Now to show you the good stuff. I'll start with some of the products and finish with the camaraderie and fun between the consultants. I hope you enjoy!
For their session, we met at the Virginia Tech Arboretum. When we got there the temperature was pretty close to frigid but they were rip roaring and ready to go. They took off their layers without complaint and braved not just the cold and the hike into the arboretum and through the trees that I took them on. We experienced rain, snow and some sunshine throughout the one and a half hour shoot. The response from the Russell's wasn't a plea to stop. It was "what's next" and "how cool that we experienced three of the four seasons in one hour". They left this wonderful attitude with me. The reminder that there is always a silver lining. What a fantastic couple they are and I am so very sure sweet, little Daniela is going to be the apple of their eyes and the person who makes their world go around. I hope this sweet girl has her mom's beautiful eyes and her daddy's infectious smile. There's no doubt her big puppy sister will make sure she's always safe and warm.
Special thanks to Angel Dibbs for her fabulous assisting work. Here are some of the fun shots we got that day. Enjoy!
This is my favorite shot. It's so imperfect technically but it really shows how wonderfully happy she is. I read a blog recently by Sharon Hundley in which she said you should never put your camera down during your sessions because you can miss the great candid moments. That really hit home with me and I practiced it during this session. That is how this fantastic photo came to be.
Gorgeous, Perfect sun flare
Another one of the fantastic, not putting my camera down moments.
Whimsy Wednesdays
A Tale of Two Silly Girls With Nikons and Their Unanticipatedly Quirky, Beautiful Friendship
By: Angel Marie Dibbs of Angel Dibbs Photography
Typically, I'm not the girl who likes surprises. I'm a micro-manager, a planner, a "don't spread yourself too thin" kind of girl. Sometimes life throws us curve balls though, and we can either duck, or try to catch the ball.
It was a typical spring Sunday afternoon in Northern VA about four years ago, when my daughter called from Virginia Beach to ask me a favor. "Mom, could you help my photographer friend edit some pics she took of me?" "Sure, have her send me an email with RAW files", I replied. I had been FB "friends" with Kierstyn Peterson for months via my daughter, but we had not actually communicated until that day.
Kierstyn was just beginning her journey towards becoming a photographer, and I had been in the biz since 2003-ish. Though I was facing my own personal challenges at that time, Kierstyn's excitement inspired me, so I helped with her editing project. After all, the images were of my daughter. My BABY. My HEART & SOUL! Additionally, when my kid asks me to help her friend, I know it's because she sees their potential. We have a long history in the creative world, both in the visual and performing fine arts. To say we get the chills when we see ambition combined with natural talent, is an understatement!
Fast forward to the following February, and I'd moved to VB from the DC metro area. My partner and I both have family here, and we own a small condo which needs remodeling before putting on the market , AND...his divorce has been long, ugly & more expensive than any of you would EVER believe. Soooo, (heavy sigh) we downsized from our 3 level home, put our things in storage and moved back to where we were both raised. Our effort to get past this "phase", get one of our daughters through private college (she attends Smith) while paying off attorney fees, has been..........yeah. Did I mention Darrin began traveling for business 4 days/week exactly 4 days after our relocation? Oh, and my photography business had to start over from scratch. Remember that thing about curve balls? Can I get a shot of tequila and a hug please? LOL!
If you know me, you know I'm strong willed and independent, and rarely let the universe bring me down. Hell, I make up reasons to have dance parties. One thing I refuse to give up on is Whimsy Wednesday (my version of a mid-week reboot). A little lunch, a little wine, and a lot of whimsy with my besties...trust me, it's the stuff that keeps you from needing antidepressants. I FINALLY got settled in, and invited Kierstyn over for W.W. It was Kierstyn's first time tasting Darrin's home made salsa , hearing my "special" language, meeting Yofa (my grumpy chihuahua), eating my gluten free chicken tacos w/soy cheese, and realizing I might be the most ADHD person she's ever met.
As I got to know her, I realized how uniquely different Kierstyn and I were, but who cared that our politics didn't align, or that we were raised on opposite sides of the country, a decade apart? Seriously, so what if I'm a hazelnut latte, Sundance boots, leggings everyday, city meets ocean, tap dancing, try anything risky, VW driving, wine loving tech geek kind of girl...while Kierstyn's an "appreciate the simple things", jeans, pink sweatshirts, Navy loving, sexy sports car driving, coconut rum, impeccable manicure, Broncos kind of girl, who happens to name her cars, cameras, laptops etc. (not kidding.) I began to see with Kierstyn, the biggest differences seemed smaller than usual. Politics, religion, philosophy...nope, didn't matter. There was depth to be found in our similarities, for example: we are both Daddy's girls and giant kids at heart. We are both compassionate and love deeply. We love children and family. We support all art. We are chronic romantics and people people, We put ourselves last when we are needed. We don't support inflated egos and freely admit our own flaws. We dislike PMS, grumpy teens, our men behaving like jerks and tedious editing. We believe in paying it forward and sharing our knowledge. With that said, there are just too many things we have in common to let the uncommon areas get in our way, right? (Our men are TOTAL polar opposites, lol!)
I'm smitten with Kierstyn's growth as a photographer, but honestly, I don't care what she does for a living as long as she is my friend. I'm not gonna lie, it's pretty cool that we can talk shop and support each other's work, but photography is what we do, not who we are. Without her daily texts messages, and her uncanny ability to know I'm having a bad day, I might have had a meltdown while rebuilding my business after moving. Kierstyn was the best curve ball ever thrown my way. I'm so glad I didn't duck! I'm grateful to have her friendship, and I wish her the best kind of success in her business and throughout her life. WHIMSY WEDNESDAYS FOREVER!
Sooo…we photographers are REALLY bad about getting pro photos taken of ourselves, yet we have websites and biz cards and marketing materials which require us to submit to the opposite side of the lens sometimes. We always make grand plans, but something else always trumps our “loose” appointments with each other. This time however, I had a maternity session on a Sunday and knew I could do Kierstyn’s head shots right afterwards. (Translation: if I did her head shots, she’d be my lighting assistant for the maternity session…WINNING!) It was a beautiful sunny afternoon on the Chesapeake Bay, albeit very cold with the wind chill. I’d recently gotten over the full blown flu, and Kierstyn was on her 2nd round of antibiotics for a bad case of bronchitis! Neither of us had any business frolicking on the beach in the winter temps, but we had to carpe diem! Rather than brave the colder wind directly on the Bay, we made our way beyond the dunes to First Landing State Park, where the nooks and crannies were plentiful. Kierstyn’s daughter Ashley became my lighting girl, and she was awesome…until her fingers got numb:) Let’s just say we started to work at a Nascar pace, and our big “vision” for a gallery of greatness was modified as the wind turned Kierstyn’s skin blue and made her bronchitis sound like pneumonia! I’m all…”one more shot, I promise”, in my most convincing but non-trustworthy voice:) Luckily, Kierstyn knows exactly what I know, which is that the last impulse shots are usually the very best shots! Ok not always, but we can go with that right? There are so many more great shots from her session, and I WILL get them edited…I swear! Until then, isn’t my quirky, beautiful friend gorgeous? P.S.-if you want to know which one is my favorite, here’s a little hint: I LOVE dead weeds!
Photographer: Angel Dibbs of Angel Dibbs Photographer (www.angeldibbsphotographer.com)
Makeup: Kierstyn Peterson
Hair: Glow Salon
Lighting Assist: Ashley Peterson Location: First Landing State Park
When I joined the Navy I was obsessed at boot camp graduation about getting pictures of everyone I had been there with. I am almost positive I have a personal picture of every girl that I went to boot camp with and my company commanders. When I got to my first duty station, I ended up being stationed close to my best boot camp friend. I remember setting up a makeshift studio in the barracks and taking boudoir photos of her for her to send her deployed boyfriend at the time. Who knew that moment would end up being so telling so many years later.
When I met the man I would later marry and had our children my obsession with picture taking only got worse (and remember this was long before phones with cameras). My children will tell you that they have always felt like they are being hounded by paparazzi when they are in my presence. I was always capturing every moment that I could with them. Trying to cherish it and see life through my lens.
Then about 5 years ago, my world was rocked by some pretty horrible personal circumstances. My marriage was failing, my kids were struggling and me? Well I was a hot mess and that was putting it mildly. That's when I turned to my camera. We couldn't afford professional pictures but I wanted so badly to provide them for my family and friends, so I took my kids out to the beach and started snapping away. When I got home and downloaded the pics I was shocked to see just how well they had turned out. I was so excited to share them with everyone. Then a friend of mine saw them and wanted me to take pictures of her boys. So we headed down to the Outer Banks of NC. I looked to the right and told my friend to turn down this random road. The road led us to a bay area that was secluded, the water was warm and there was this little area that was stunning. So I played with posing of her children and ended up with some really amazing images of not just her children but of my own. Then we spent the day playing in the water and I captured candid after candid of the kids playing on a day where they only have memories of the fun they had and not the photography that started the day. My family was healing and my tide was turning.
That was the moment that photography truly chose me. Friends started asking me to photograph their families, their children...their moments. I was hooked and addicted and wanted to do more and more and more. I wasn't charging. I was just enjoying it. I love living in people's moments and experiencing their lives through my lens. After a trip to San Diego on which I had photographed one of my dearest friends with her children, she said to me, "Kierstyn why don't you do this for a living? Why don't you open your own business?" and that was it. That was the start of something crazy and great. I had no idea the work that was ahead of me. I figured, nice camera and a good eye was all I would need. I quickly found out that wasn't all I needed.
I need a business license, knowledge, network, marketing, business skills, etc. So I met with some established photographers, took some classes, took some workshops, studied online information, watched youtube videos until I went cross-eyed. Bought a better camera...oh and then I bought an even better camera and even more gear than I would've ever thought I would need. I thought my work was so good. I was wrong. I was learning to be good. I'm still learning to be good. I was (am still am) in love and it didn't matter what it was going to take to get me there. I was willing to put in the work. I have carried other photographers gear and just watched them work (heck I still love doing that), I worked hard, I am and was a sponge for any tidbit of knowledge others wanted to share with me.
I have heard things like "You'll never make it in this industry", "You suck" and so many other discouraging words. On the other hand, I have heard "You've got a great eye", "You are doing everything you need to do to get to where you need to go" and my favorite "Keep up the good work". What I learned was there so important for not just photography but for all walks of life. There will always be people that want you to fail or want to discourage you because every person holding a camera is competition in their eyes. There will also always be people to encourage your dreams and goals and paint a beautiful picture of wonderful for you. The one's you need to look for and embrace are the one's who give it to you straight. My mentors and good friends in this business are the one's who don't pull any punches with me. They are honest when I suck but they are also the ones who tell me how to get better. Who help me get to where I want to get to. I am blessed to have met some WONDERFUL, AMAZING people in this industry that I call friends and framily. Those are my keepers and I will always be determined to pay it forward because in all honesty there just isn't any paying it back. The debt is just to deep.
So my pay it forward is to help new photographers out there learn the things I know, to constantly learn new things and better myself, to forge friendships with my fellow photographers, to be a woman of my word and to keep letting photography choose me, again and again and again.
I would like to share some pictures from when I first started and a few that are most recent. It feels so good to be able to see my growth. XOXO
These first three are from that session on the beach that I took of my kids because I couldn't afford professional pictures but wanted to have photos for my family and friends.
Here are some from that session in Outer Banks, NC
These next two are from my very first family session which was for a dear friend of mine that encouraged me to start my business. These were the best of the 50 shots I kept. The rest were overly edited, out of focus and just plain not good. Looking back I just didn't realize how much I still needed to learn.
These are from a recent shoot with my daughter and a family session of a dear friend of mine. I still have so much to learn but the progress is amazing!
This boy of mine...my sweet, crazy, dances to the beat of his own wonky drum son of mine. He graduated high school! What a huge accomplishment for a boy who has had many struggles over the years. He gave us small and big heart attacks over the course of his short life and I'm almost positive most of my grey hairs (that you will NEVER see unless you are my hairdresser) are from this crazy kid. However, this man child has grown up to show us that he almost always has the best of intentions, the sweetest heart and a great sense of humor - not to mention he's incredibly intelligent.
Before Kaleb was born I was told that the likelihood of having children wasn't good. As a matter of fact, I was told it was close to impossible. Having grown up with such a love of children and a deep desire to be a mom that devastated me. Then he came along and quite honestly he is my angel and my miracle. He's not perfect but he's perfectly ours. He taught us how to love, how to be parents and we grew up with him.
Watching him cross that stage in June and receive his high school diploma was one of my very proudest moments. The moments since then have been rocky for him but he's finding his footing the best way he can. He has moved to Colorado, is working in the construction field and is figuring out life is expensive, hard and that things don't happen unless you make them happen. He's cut off a part of a finger, he's struggled with money and he's learned that making friends outside of school is hard. But every day he does the best that he can and he's trying hard to grow up to be his best self.
Kaleb we are very proud of the man you are becoming and the steps you are taking to be a better you. Keep up the good work son.
Kaleb with his cousin Niki since she didn't go to the ceremony
Silly faces and selfies with your big brother is what you do when he's graduating and having his big moment right? (yup they're mine)
Kaleb's big moment!
Kaleb with his Peterson's grandparents (Eric's parents) who came all of the way from Kansas (and quite frankly rarely travel)
Kaleb with his Nana (my mom) who flew in the night before from Colorado
Kaleb with his Aunt Tierney (my sister) who drove in from Colorado with her two kids a few days early to help me get ready for the influx of family. Her husband came the day after Kaleb graduated and was there to celebrate with us.
Kaleb with his Aunt Linda and Aunt Sherrie (Eric's sisters) who came all of the way from Kansas to see this moment.
Kaleb with our close friends Lisa and Scott who have been there with Kaleb through every milestone in the last 10 years.
and here is a rare moment you will find of me and my husband in front of the camera with our graduate.
Kaleb with his baby sister and one of his closest friends (even if at times they won't admit it)
The Whole Family
The Graduate
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The Willer Family came to me in a unique way. Krista had hired a photographer and headed out for her family shoot with her husband, two little ones and her sweet Rottweiler during a cold day in late October. The problem was the photographer didn't show. She had lost all faith in photographers. I offered her my services to make up for the experience she had already been through. We scheduled another day for the same location, I had her sign the contract and we all headed out for the shoot.
Upon arriving out to the location I immediately noticed how sweet her family is. Her family is truly precious. We had a great little session out at Oak Grove Park with Krista, her husband Jared, her precocious and busy daughter Collins (along with her plushie little friend Hoo Hoo), her sweet baby boy Brayden and their biggest baby Duchess! They even went so far as to invite some friends along to help with the kiddos so we could get the shots they wanted. We had a fun little session even taking a break to play at the playground so little miss could have a good experience with a photographer.
The best part was when it was all over she told me it was the best family photos she has ever had and that I had restored her faith in photographers. To me that makes all of the difference. I want all my clients to know I am there for them and to give them a good and positive experience. I make mistakes and I have most definitely fallen short a time or two but at the end of the day I always strive to be there for my clients. I fully enjoyed my time with the Willer Family and I hope to work with them much more in the future.
Who doesn't enjoy a little leaf exploring with their daddy!
Beautiful Blue Eyed Boy
A little playground break
A gorgeous couple is always a joy to shoot
A proud father and his son A mommy daughter moment is priceless
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During our shoot in her parents back yard, I noticed this great stack of wood. She mentioned she was frustrated that her dad no longer allows her to help with the splitting of the wood for the winter. I had to chuckle at that knowing that her dad is just being as protective of her as she will be of Olivia. This former United States Marine is going to be one incredibly protective mama for sure.
Abigail is completely excited for Ms. Olivia Marie to make her way into this world and I felt myself getting excited for her. There is nothing more exciting than the anticipation of a child. I have no doubts that Abigail will cherish every moment with her sweet girl who even made sure her mama knew she was the star of the show by kicking her throughout our session. Check out some of the great pictures from this fun shoot with a great new mama!
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How can I possibly share with you how incredible this man is. I met Ulysses when we worked together at a Chiropractic office where he worked as massage therapist. On the roughest of days he was quick to find a way to make us all smile. He has a gentle nature about him that can be captivating and motivating. Ulysses served our country as United States Marine prior to my meeting him. Our experiences in the military were topic of conversation on many occasion. He has a daughter that is the absolute apple of his eyes. When he speaks of her his whole demeanor lights up. He works very hard to make his dream of becoming a famous actor come true. Whether that be on a stage or on the small screen that is his big picture goal. He also enjoys writing and is currently working on something I am sure is just going to be fantastic. He lives his life as a man of great faith in God and does his ultimate best to be an example to others in that respect. He's someone I admire greatly. It was an honor to take these head shots for him to use to attain his goals. So...if you are looking for an actor, a massage therapist, a personal trainer or maybe you just need someone to pray for you, Ulysses is your man! Enjoy some of the shots I took of him.
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The Compton Family Session is always a fun time for me. This family has so much personality that it makes for a session full of laughter and great times. I mean who doesn't love a session full of sayings like "Daddy's a Dork" and "Chicken Nuggets" to get people to smile and bunny ears and crazy faces all around. Kim and Matt are an awesome couple who are loving and playful with each other and their children, which I am a huge fan of. Sydney is pure enjoyment and you can tell she loves her brothers no matter what they do to annoy her. She has big goals and is a joy to talk to. Will is a character full of crazy faces and some great ideas. He truly made me laugh out loud with his silly antics. He has a fantastic personality. Brady was a champ. He sat for picture after picture for me with a great smile on his face despite it being chilly next to the water and his tummy anxiously awaiting some dinner. He didn't complain until close to the very end and that's when I had pull out my fart noises because that is what you do when a little boy has had it with having his picture taken right? He even helped me carry a tripod back to my car, exclaiming "I've got work to do" while he carried it. Top it all off they came for their session dressed in the greatest outfits. Navy blue cable knits, grey and blue baseball style long sleeved shirts, a great patterned sweater on mom and an awesome sweater adorned with a big anchor right in the middle. I must admit Brady's anchor sweater may have been my favorite. I was kinda jealous of it actually. Oh and did I mention this is an amazing military family who sacrifices don't go unnoticed or under appreciated by this photographer? Because yeah...they are! This is the second year in a row that I have been blessed to photograph this family and I hope not the last because their sessions are always a great time. I hope you enjoy these pictures as much as I enjoyed taking them.
These three are the apples of their parents eyes and a lot of fun with their big personalities!
Because any photos session with this little man isn't complete without funny faces!
Because Big Sisters can fix anything with a hug and a promise!
Lasting Love!
We did a similar shot last year with the kids covering their own eyes. I thought this might keep the tradition alive and be fun!
Bunny ears for mom
The family that funny faces together....stays together!
The Beautiful Compton Family
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Meet one of the most fantastic families I have had the pleasure of photographing (not to mention my good friends), The Taylor Family! I have known Jamie for 10 years now. WOW! Where has the time gone. Our girls were just babies back then and our boys...well we blinked and they turned into young men overnight right? When I met Jamie 10 years ago, during the first month we both worked for Lincoln Military Housing, I had no idea that I would be making a lifelong friend and someone I would end up considering a soul sister! I love this woman more than I can express. We have seen each other through some major life hurdles and even carried each other across some devastations. So when she called to ask me to photograph her family, I was just simply over the moon excited. When I set out to plan her session, I knew that they were not the family to put in a flower garden or out at the beach. So I started wracking my brain about what the perfect location would be for them. I have to say Ghent turned out to be the perfect spot for them. We still ended up getting the pretty greenery and the water in some of their shots but their session had a more historic, urban setting and it was a lot of fun to shoot. It helped that she had bribed both of the kids to get them to be on their best behavior (this works best with pre-teen and teens). I hope you enjoy these photos as much as I enjoyed taking them!
Meet Tink and Stink! Otherwise known as the Beautiful, Princess Ryanne and the Handsome, Sir Joe!
This is the boom to my bang and a total bombshell Jamie along with her incredibly, sweet and devoted husband Jason!
Sometimes it's hard to get these two to admit they love each other but secretly we know they do!
The Gorgeous Taylor Family (including sweet Cassie)!
Mama Bear and her Cubs
Big Daddy and his Munchkins!
Bribery Paid In Full For Good Behavior
Thank you so much Taylor Family for letting me document a small part of your wonderful story!
There have been moments since I opened my business that I am in awe of the great things I get to share in. This particular event was one of those moments. I met Blake and Amber three years ago when Blake and my husband made Chief together. I was there the day Blake put on his anchors. Since then I have been at almost every major event his family has experienced since then including his wedding to Amber and the birth of his two youngest children, Pippa and Tobin. So when Amber asked me to photograph his commissioning, well that was an easy yes. How could I miss it? Plus, the bonus? My husband was to be the Honor Boatswain.
That morning I could hear Eric practicing his piping to make sure he got it just right. He was a little nervous as he hadn't piped in about a year and he was worried his pipe just wasn't up to par. Eric, myself and our daughter Ashley got dressed in our best and headed out to The Shifting Sands at Damn Neck Naval Base. It was a gorgeous, sunny day and when we arrived the parking lot was full of lots of smiling faces all their to witness Blake take his next steps on this new adventure with his family.
I couldn't help but tear up and get a little sad watching his anchors taken away or as my husband says "watching Blake chuck his anchors". It seems like only yesterday Amber and Layla were putting them on. However, watching Blake take his commissioning and the wonderful tradition involved in the ceremony was a moving and amazing moment in his career. As his friend, I couldn't be more proud. As a self-made family member, I will miss them living close by but I know they know I will always be a phone call away.
Bravo Zulu to Blake Miller and his beautiful family! Here are some pictures from the day Blake Miller went from Navy Chief to Navy Mustang.
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For a very long time now I have wanted to get into pin up photography. Not just the boudoir version but just the creative, fun version of stepping back in time just a little bit. What I love most is when it's with a twist and the model is tattooed and beautiful. We are a generation of art enthusiasts and so many of us now are finding our love of art is expressed best on our bodies. I think body ink is gorgeous and something that should be meaningful to each individual person. But I digress and that is a blog for another time. This blog is about my first pin up shoot. When Katrina posted on Facebook that she was looking for a pin up shoot, I was so excited. I looked at her pictures and just knew she would be perfect.
The bonus? SHE WAS PERFECT! This girl is so smart, funny, beautiful and yeah she's FUNNY! She's got an infectious laugh and knows how to work her sass. She gets it and it was a super easy shoot. My challenge was working with props and setting up the set just right. I see where my room to grow is in this department and with time I see this getting better and better. In the meantime, I had so much fun shooting this girl and meeting her wonderful and supportive boyfriend Corey.
Oh and one last thing. This girl...this WOMAN...is a United States Navy Sailor. Let's all take a minute to admire and thank a woman who serves her country with pride and still makes sure she's all woman! Katrina is truly a Pin Up Princess in my book. Katrina - Thank you profusely for your service to our country and for rocking it out in front of my camera. XOXO
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Some of you may know that I served in the US Navy. Of course, for me, that was many moons ago. I have been happy in my role as military spouse and supporter. My heart has always been with our brave men and women who serve our country. So when Kelly approached me to photograph her husbands retirement ceremony, I was beyond honored. Celebrating 20+ years of service and sacrifice is a moment in this families story that I certainly wasn't going to miss. What an incredible ceremony. Trent read a letter his father wrote him in boot camp that brought a tear to everyone's eyes. He told his wife Kelly "you are the strongest woman I know." I think the part that really touched me was when all of the Marine's in attendance lined up to personally shake Trent's hand and say "farewell". Just simply patriotic. The most hysterical and fitting moment was when Trent kept trying to avoid the family pictures because the beer tent was calling his name. When I walked over there to get some candids, I find that one of Trent's family members is a brewer of beer and has made Trent his own special line of beer for the special occasion. Trent Kuhhoff is a true Marine in every sense of the word. That being said he is also one of the most humble, smart and down to earth men I have ever met. Not to mention hysterically funny. His wife and children are the type of family that every service member should have in their lives. They are supportive, inspiring and also...hysterically funny. This family is full of laughter and love. Being there to see the end of one adventure and the beginning of another was truly humbling! Master Gunnery Sargeant Trent Kuhlhoff, Kelly Kuhlhoff, Kyle Kuhlhoff and Jordan Kuhlhoff - You are true American heroes! Thank you for your service! Semper Fidelis and Ooh Rah!
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When Holly and I first met about two years ago, it was like we were immediately meant to be friends. She "got" me. Which isn't always an easy thing. We were somewhat inseparable for those first few months. We were working together and she was doing her best to make sure I was successful in a job I wasn't so thrilled to have. During the course of our friendship, she shared with me her life with Donnie and Christian. It was clear these two are the loves of her life. So when she got engaged to Donnie I couldn't have been more excited for her. When she chose me to be her wedding photographer, I was over the moon. She's always been so supportive of me and my business. I couldn't wait to shoot her wedding for her.
Donnie and Holly have never been the types to conform to the "norm". Their wedding was no different in that respect. She made sure her unique style was seen the details. Instead of a traditional cake, Donnie and Holly opted for a cake that told their story. Their favors were rice paper seeds and s'mores. Their champagne glasses decorated with their favorite pet names for each other along with the corresponding animal, Mr. and Mrs. Meerkat.
However different their day may have been, there was one theme throughout the course of their special day. They are loved and blessed and they don't take that for granted.
Vendors for the day: DJ: Robert Cade of Astro DJ's, Hair & Make-up: Jessica of Kristal Lane Stylist, Dress: Maya Couture, Cake: Custom Cakes, Champagne Glasses: The Mad Painter, Florist: Norfolk Florist, Second Shooter: The Amazing Angel Dibbs, Photo Booth: Kierstyn Peterson Photography, Photo Booth Operator: Ashley Peterson
Here are a few photos from that fantastic day!
Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Perdue! Thank you for letting me be a part of your special day!
I loaded up my gear and I hit the road from Virginia Beach to Chesapeake. Little did I know the high rise would be closed which was the ONLY way I knew how to get there. "Okay don't panic" I told myself and I texted Blake. He said "Oh yeah I forgot to tell you that. Don't worry just take the mid-town tunnel". I thought okay no big deal I know how to get to the mid-town tunnel. For the record, I am the woman who never leaves Virginia Beach unless it's to join my husband on a Bass Pro trip or we are going somewhere fun for the kids.
So I make it to the mid-town tunnel and low and behold...yup it's closed. So now I am panicking a little bit because this quick trip to Chesapeake has taken over an hour. haha! I text Blake and he says "Oh man! Okay the mid-wife says the Gilmerton tunnel is the way to go. You may miss the baby. She's getting close" Um...what? Where is the Gilmerton? I was a mess at this point but my only concern was getting to them before their baby made it into the world.
So I pull over and call my friends Angel and Darrin. Thank God they were so understanding of being woken up in the middle of the night and seriously thank God for technology. They had me download an iPhone Finder app and once they found me they guided me to my destination because GPS was NOT helping with detours. I finally made it to my destination.
As I walk into the bedroom, I notice the calm quietness. This is the second time I have witnessed Amber give birth at home and each time I am amazed at how quiet and calm everything is. No bright lights, no machines beeping and no sense of panic. Amber was resting in a bath trying to get some relief. It wasn't long after that (about a half hour) until that sweet baby had finally had enough of mommy living and made his way into our world.
A couple of small moans out of Amber and he was here with us. Beautiful and magical! I am so honored to have been a small part of his first moments in the world, one of the first 5 people to hold him and to call him family. He's a miracle and a blessing for sure. Here are a few of the pics from that sweet night and our newborn mini shoot!
So many Congratulations and Blessings to the Miller Family! Welcome to the world Tobin Oliver Miller! I love you more than you will ever know!
When this beautiful young woman's mom contacted me to do her Sweet Sixteen photos, I was over the moon excited. She wanted her daughter to feel special and beautiful and to celebrate her 16 years of glorious life. I didn't know Kaya prior to this shoot so at first I was a little nervous about how I was going to do just that. So I researched and researched and drew my inspiration from the people in the industry that I admire most. Then I looked at my own daughter and thought I want to make Kaya feel as comfortable and special as I would want my own daughter to feel. So I went with my gut and I think it worked out well.
Kaya is beautiful! She's got a natural glow to her. She's also quiet, shy and ...a dancer. So we used all of that to our advantage and together we were able to come up with some great shots. Kaya was a trooper braving the cold of the beach in Spring. She never complained or wined. She literally let me pose her in whatever way I wanted. She leapt, spun, stood on her toes, fought branches and all with her beautiful smile.
Kaya, you are so smart, so funny and so sweet. I hope your Sixteenth was as Sweet as you wanted it to be!!!
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Having watched this beautiful young woman blossom into the person she is today has been amazing. I have known her since she was just 5 years old. She's sweet, intelligent and incredibly beautiful! I loved photographing her and getting to see a side of her I have never seen. She's growing into an incredible young lady and we are so blessed to have her in our world!
She braved freezing temperatures. There was snow on the beach still. She was such a willing participant and so eager to see what I had in store for her. We started with a make up transformation. To see the look on her face when she was all dolled up was priceless. I think that's the moment her real self came out. She was able to carry herself with more confidence and you could just see how that little touch of make up made all of the difference in the world.
When we were done there we headed to the beach. When she stepped onto the beach that's when I really saw her come out of her shell. She needed very little direction and her self-confidence really started to show. She's a natural model and a natural beauty and it was nice to see her start to feel as beautiful as the world sees her.
I am so proud to know Madison and to have been a small part of the person that she is. Madison, I love your spirit of adventure, your infectious laugh and your quiet demeanor. You have really become an incredible person!!!
I feel so very blessed to have been chosen to photograph the engagement photos for this fantastic couple! Melissa was the 4th grade teacher to not one but BOTH of my children. She blessed them both with a love of Science. She took the time to get to know what worked and what didn't work for my son who has always had challenges finding a teacher who had the patience for his level of need. She always went above and beyond as a teacher. I've kept up with Melissa all of these years because she was so important to my kiddos love for school and learning. She hasn't always had the easiest time. When I learned she had found her soulmate and true love I was so excited and happy for her. When she asked me to photograph their engagements I was completely over the moon.
Matt is a wonderful man! It is very clear he adores Melissa (and she him) when you see them together. Matt traveled all the way from India (where he works and where they will begin their lives together). Then I asked them to brave the cold and the early sunrise morning. To say we were cold was a bit of an understatement but they were total troopers and went along with every little idea I had. I loved that he found ways to make her smile or laugh! They both have great sense of humors.
Matt & Melissa I am so very happy for you two and I can't wait to keep up with your travels, your adventures and your beautiful life together! Congratulations to you both!
Over the last three years I have shot many details, many weddings and many beautiful moments but this wedding was very special and will forever stand out to me for many reasons. This wasn't just a client. This was the wedding of two of my dearest friends. Two people who's children I love like my own and who's family has become like my own. Watching these two people grow and build a life together has been such a gift to me and my family. Watching them seal their union with their wedding was an incredible moment for me that I will never forget. Here's just a small glimpse into the incredible wedding of my dear friends Blake and Amber Miller!
Congratulations! I'm so glad I have been a witness to the beauty of your love and family!
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Garrett and Keila were looking for photos to display in their home that represented them and what they share. Luckily, I just happened to take a position in the same company with Keila. When she found out I was a photographer she asked me if I would be interested in taking these pictures for her and her husband. I am so honored to have been able to capture a small piece of their story together! Also a special thanks to both of them for their service to this country. Garrett for enlisting in the US Navy and Keila for being there every step of the way to support his service.
This year we got heartbreaking news that one of our dearest family friends had been diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer. I hadn't spoken with Pam in about a year due to each of us having families and life to get to and we let each other slip through our life cracks. Something I deeply regret. However, when she contacted me to let me know that she'd been diagnosed I was initially devastated. Oddly enough it was her attitude that determined my altitude in this situation. She has been so positive about her diagnosis. Although I am sure she has bad days and she's facing horrible challenges that no wife, mother, daughter, woman should ever have to face, she has done so with a smile and with so much courage. I have yet to witness a true complaint or to hear her ask "why me?" She credits her courage to the support of her sweet family. Her supportive husband and two adorable (and adoring) children are her strength. Beyond that she has her parents, brothers and much extended family and friends fighting this battle with her.
So when an opportunity arose for me to walk in the 2013 American Cancer Society Breast Cancer Walk here in Hampton Roads, I knew I had to walk for her. I also knew I couldn't just walk. That would NOT be good enough to represent our Pam! No ma'am! That just wouldn't do. She wouldn't have approved. I had to get all dolled up. So off I went to walk in her name in my pink feather boa, my pink tutu, pink fingernails, pink eyeshadow, my pink head band and my pink water bottle in hand. I even had a co-worker spray the tips of my braids pink. I wasn't going to represent my beautiful friend half way.
I learned about the human spirit while I was there. The stories of loss and of survival were absolutely amazing! As I stood listening to the amazing stories I had the overwhelming feeling that Pam was going to be alright. No matter what she has her family, her faith and a joy for life and living it. She can get through anything with all of those things on her side.
Pam - I hope you know every day how loved you are, how admired you and how much of my hero you are! You are rocking this cancer thing and kicking it's butt! I'm so honored to call you my friend.
The pictures of me were taken by my beautiful daughter Ashley! Although not all of the pictures in this blog are technically perfect, they perfectly captured the festivities and the spirit of the walk. Here are the pictures from that beautiful day:
The survivor wreath and survivor cupcakes were donated and made by Farm Fresh Markets
The Survivors
The Festivities
Getting personal (pictures of me with close friends, my daughter and the crowd)
My warrior friend Pamela Ray and her warrior family
**Husband: Tanner * Son: Jacob * Daughter: Aubrey**
(I did not take this picture)
I love you girl!!!
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