Angela Michelle Photography

Nashville TN Wedding Wilburn Slideshow

2011-05-04T23:00:00.003-04:00

I suppose a photographer's job in part is to capture images as if they themselves are not present.  Candid shots are beautiful. Making the viewer think they are sneaking a peek into a moment they were not meant to see is an art.  A small kiss shared privately between two people or the emotional moment between a father and daughter as he is giving her away, these are the moments that beg to be shown. These are the moments that make me want to press my shutter button so that I may keep them forever and show them to the world. Even if shots are posed, they leave little room for the photographer's presence because my eyes in a sense become the viewer's eyes. I also try to customize each photograph around my subject and make it all about them.

So where does that leave me?

Well, the cool part about my ~~job~~ passion is that I can not look at any of my images without being flooded with emotion. I am a visual being and an emotional one too. The truth is I'm not only capturing moments in time for my subjects but I'm sharing those moments with them. When I photograph a wedding, aside from the actual ceremony, I am not over in a corner hiding with a big telephoto lens. I am right there in the mix with the bride as she gets a bit nervous and needs some fresh air or the groom when he sees her for the first time.  These images are a part of my heart and I am truly blessed.

Spending such an important day with Erin and Nathan was a joyous occasion that still makes me teary eyed and happy. They were zooming me around to all of these gorgeous places that Erin had scouted out in advance for photographs and telling me the story of their love.  We went to the site of their first kiss and their favorite place to have a drink just down the street from the house they lived in for three years.  They had their reception dinner at their favorite restaurant for celebrating. They had eaten there when they closed on their new home. Their home is gorgeous by the way. The decor has a warm welcoming feeling which made photography magic when mixed with all the natural light. All of the silhouette, first look and brown sofa photos were taken on the third floor. I would so love to have that area as a studio space.

In case you were wondering, I did cry during the ceremony. (Sniff Sniff) Erin was just so beautiful and Nathan looked at her with tremendous love.

Now if I can take all of that emotion I feel when I see those images and make you my viewer feel just as strongly then I will consider myself a success.

There is one more thing (or two) I wanted to share. Nathan studied and works in film and video production and Erin is the video editor for a music video company. It is flattering to say the least that two visual artists would choose me as their photographer for such a special once in a lifetime event. Erin knew how I work because she was my second shooter at her sister's wedding you can see here, here & here. Erin has her own food blog Erin's Food Files and you should definitely check it out. You can also follow her on facebook. I ♥ the pictures of food on her blog and it always makes me hungry. Nom nom. After seeing their slideshow I am sure you got a hint at how cool and hip these two are.

So much more I want to share but I'll save it for another post. : )

This song was part of Erin and Nathan's wedding ceremony and just happens to be one of my all time favorites.

Senior Representative Program

2011-03-19T12:28:00.001-04:00

Hello Class of 2012! I am looking for fun, exciting and unique individuals to represnt Angela Michelle Photography for the upcoming school year.

Application

Chris and Renea Wedding Part II

2011-03-17T22:31:00.002-04:00

Chris & Renea Get Married!

2011-03-15T22:43:00.004-04:00

This wedding is very special to me because Chris is my baby brother. I love my family so much and it was an honor for Renea to become a part of that family. She is such a wonderful, sweet person. When I first saw her in her dress I broke into tears. She looked gorgeous. I had to quickly get myself together because there were photos to take. Here are a few of them.

Design Guides

2011-01-25T23:39:00.003-05:00

These design inspiration guides are a way to get you thinking outside the box when it comes to your portrait displays. These can be used for large framed prints, standouts or canvas prints. Don't hesitate to ask for help. I am able to insert your session photos into the display to give you a better idea what they will look like in your space.

Wiles Family

2010-12-29T22:50:00.000-05:00

Remember when baby Jack turned 1? The blond haired blue eyed cutie is back and this time with his mommy and daddy. He even brought out his dogs to play.

Michaela Class of 2011

2010-12-19T17:20:00.001-05:00

I remember when Michaela was still growing in her Mommy's tummy but how time has flown because she has grown into a beautiful young woman. I really don't know how her eyes could be any bluer or more gorgeous. This blog is designed using some of the elements I use for senior cards . I custom make cards and invitations for all occasions. Enjoy!

Straight Family

2010-12-03T01:48:00.000-05:00

Is there really anything on this earth more powerful than a mother's love? I see so much of it when I look at these photos. Even though this little man was shy at first he quickly warmed up to my camera. By the end of the session he had earned a treat. I gave him a piece of chalk which he used to draw a perfect little heart.

Wolz Wedding

2010-11-30T23:51:00.002-05:00

Brittany & Steven's engagement session was so much fun I couldn't wait to photograph their beautiful wedding. My favorite images were outside the church with the lovely sun flares. The cake was beautiful as well and the icing smell was practically torturing me with it's yummy goodness all day. One of the perks of photographing weddings is eating the yummy cake. : )

Cooper Maternity

2010-11-20T18:10:00.001-05:00

This couple met while he was stationed overseas and fell so in love that they married when he returned. Now here they are a few years later, living on Fort Knox and about to be a family. She had some skill making the belly hearts so I had to showcase more than one. Their favorite image was the last shown with him leaning his head over on her belly. So sweet.

Kyndra & JE

2010-11-10T21:36:00.002-05:00

This session was on a beautiful fall day at a local pumpkin patch. Don't they look so happy and in love? All though I heart all of these images for their own reasons the last one makes me giggle. Forehead kisses are the sweetest.

Halie K

2010-11-03T20:52:00.013-04:00

Halie is so gorgeous and this time I think she finally got the hang of posing. There were just soooo many favorites this blog will be a bit long. Enjoy!

Alice

2010-11-01T22:13:00.000-04:00

My little family has been somewhat bitten by the Alice in Wonderland bug. We read the book, watched the Disney movie version and then the new 3D version, we jam to the soundtrack and have seen the play. We even had a Doggie Tea Party. It was only fitting that we dress up as Alice in Wonderland characters for Halloween. I bought one of the Red Queen hair pieces which was really neat but after I spent time putting together Jakeb and Maurissa's costumes mine didn't seem so cool or so important. Here is our take on the story in pictures. I hope you enjoy it and it puts a smile on your face. I had to break it up into 3 blogs because I had so many images.

Mad Hatter

2010-11-01T22:00:00.000-04:00

Jakeb as my Mad Hatter...

The Tea Party

2010-11-01T21:59:00.001-04:00

I just love these two...

Beans

2010-10-27T22:48:00.008-04:00

These kids are absolutely adorable. I love every one of them. I just wish I had been able to snap some individual photos. : (

Guffey Family

2010-10-27T21:34:00.000-04:00

For most people having portraits taken is a dreaded event. When I show up sometimes there are more grunts and groans than smiles. One of the many pleasures of my job is showing clients how much fun they can have during a session. Even if they don't have an absolute blast at least I can show them a bit of how beautiful they are.

Chancey Family

2010-10-24T21:48:00.000-04:00

Remember the beautiful Kayla's senior session ? Well, I was lucky enough to photograph her family recently and they are are all just gorgeous. The leaves had just started to change and the weather was unbelievable. It was fun to work with them because the girls had a lot of ideas of what they wanted to see. They orchestrated the last shot with their heads together and I think it came out just lovely. Enjoy!

Alana and Wes

2010-10-05T22:51:00.002-04:00

Alana has been a friend for many many years. Her getting married is absolutely wonderful and I am so excited for her. She and Wes have set the date for January 1st 2011 ( 1-1-11). How cool is that? This session was another one of those where we were fighting the rain. It was sprinkling on and off and even came a downpour. I was determined to make use of the old abandoned house in the third set of images. I am also in love with the creaminess in the last image from the overcast sky.

New Phone Number

2010-10-01T10:36:00.000-04:00

My children and I just made an exciting move into a new home and we love it! It feels so good to be in the country and there are so many gorgeous places to take photos that I am practically drooling right now. Then the reality of all the boxes around me sets in and I realize how much other work I have to do before I can play with my camera. : )

Unfortunately, I wasn't able to keep the same office number. My new number is (270) 862-5216. You can still reach me on the same cell phone number or by email. Don't worry I will still be serving the same areas.

I hope you all have a blessed and wonderful weekend. This weather is beautiful. I have some great sessions scheduled and I look forward to sharing them all with you.

Big Family Fun

2010-09-21T18:50:00.001-04:00

We had so much fun for this session laughing and joking. A tire swing, rolling down the hill and playing Ring Around the Rosie only added to the fun. This family was amazingly sweet and made my job of photographing 14 people at once so much easier. Thanks Hill Family!

Brittany & Steven Engagement Session

2010-09-16T09:52:00.000-04:00

Brittany is one of the teachers at my kids' daycare. They love her and are both so excited I get to photograph her wedding. They were waiting at the door for me to get home from the engagement session to see what the photos looked like. My daughter is sure she is going to get to attend the wedding as my little helper : ) Here is the cute couple of over 5 years...

Jack is 1 Year Old

2010-09-13T19:30:00.004-04:00

This little guy had the largest most beautiful blue eyes. When I first walked up to him it was hard to believe I was granted the privilege of photographing such a cutie. He smiled and smiled some more. Some of my favorite ones are of him with his toy rocket.

The green tub has been in my prop collection for a while now but I had an idea to photograph him sitting in it with some green apples. Cooler weather has gotten me thinking about fall and all the fun things that go with my favorite time of year. Anyway, when I went to pick up the apples these beautiful pears were staring me in the face. His mom just happened to bring the little bib overalls and presto photo magic. : )

Brittany & Steven Are Getting Married!

2010-09-12T22:04:00.001-04:00

Here is a sneak peek from an engagement session downtown this evening.

Davie Wedding Story Part II

2010-09-12T16:22:00.000-04:00

I couldn't wait to get Lindsey & Steve's final wedding photos posted. If you can't decide which are your favorites you are not alone. I presented them with 280 proofs in all. The ceremony was gorgeous. There wasn't a dry eye in the crowd. The way the light shown through her veil was heavenly. Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Davie. May all your dreams come true.

Getting married...

Davie Wedding Slideshow

2010-09-08T23:43:00.002-04:00

Davie Wedding Story Part I

2010-09-06T12:16:00.001-04:00

Lindsey is one of the most wonderful good hearted people in this whole world. I was honored when she asked me to take their engagement photos but was even more honored when I was asked to photograph their wedding. Here is the first part of their wedding story.

Getting Ready.....

What to Wear?

2010-08-31T17:38:00.004-04:00

One of the first questions I get when booking a portrait session is, "What do I wear?" This really depends on the personality you want to portray. Are you going for fun, casual, dreamy, sassy or sophisticated? As a photographer I want you to relax and feel comfortable. When you are happy with the way you look it makes it easier for me to dig down and capture a piece of you through the lens. No one knows your personal attributes and flaws better than you. Highlight the good and tone down the bad. If there is something you are worried about let me know and we can work around it.

Think simple. Simple does not mean dull, boring or unattractive but your face should be the main focus of the portrait. Your best bet is to bring several outfit changes and if you need some advice I will be happy to help you out. I do allow wardrobe changes during sessions and encourage you to take advantage for more options when proofing.

Listed below are some suggestions for garment choices. Not every session is the same and sometimes breaking the rules can be fun. Just remember that YOU are the main focus. Have a good time and relax.

Shirts

Blaring patterns are distracting. Instead opt for softer patterns or solids.

The best kind of necks are V-necks.

Collared shirts work well for men.

Avoid sleeveless shirts. Very few people like how their arms look in these type of shirts.

Short sleeves are ok but for women wear a bracelet or bangle to break up showing skin.
Stripes should be vertical and in a light shade.
Wear colors like black, blue, burgundy, cream and light pastel shades.
Avoid white shirts. The eye will be automatically drawn to it instead of your face.
Dark tops bring the focus up to your face and can make elegant portraits. Also, black is slimming : )
Don't go overboard because all black can be boring. Just bring a dark top as an option.
Stay away from blaring bright oranges, purples, greens and reds. They can really bring out skin tone flaws.
No shiny fabric.
Layers are good.
Shirts should not be too short and hit at least at the hip. Accentuate your body.
Baggy clothes make you look bulky. Wear fitted tops instead.
Stay away from anything even slightly risque. More skin showing means less focus on the face.
Shirts with words and logos are distracting.

Bottoms-

Denim is a great fabric for photos.

Distressed and textured styles are great.

Stay away from extreme light washed looks on the thighs.
Avoid short skirts or shorts. Remember to avoid showing too much skin.
Right, she shows how you can wear a simple solid creme color with earth toned accessories. Her jewelry is simple and a light bracelet is perfect.

Accessories-
Fun funky necklaces and earrings are good.
Jackets, hats, scarves and sunglasses are also good.
Keep rings to a minimum. One large ring or none is best.

Makeup-

Wear natural looking foundation and powders.

It is a cinch for me to fix a small spot of acne but almost impossible to fix makeup that is too heavy or orange.

Hair-
Bring hairspray or product to smooth fly aways.
Use simple accessories to pull back hair.
You may want to change hairstyles so bring a brush, mirror and water bottle.
Men should have a clean shave.

Infants-
Comfort is key.
Diaper covers are great.

Make sure clothing fits properly and isn't bulky looking.

Many parents opt for natural photos without clothing.

Children-

Follow the same basic rules as above but there are some exceptions.

Bright colors can bring life to photos.

Big bows are also fun.

Plain white dresses can be worn by little girls for an antique look.

Right, she is bringing a fun and lively feel to the photo with a brightly colored dress and large hair accessory.

Left, her trendy sandals and simple soft patterned dress allow her face to remain the focal point.

Below, she layers a dress with a jacket and bold jewelry. Again, the beauty of her face remains the focus of the image.

Teens-

Express yourself.

It is ok to bring trendy fun clothing but include a simple look as well.

Wear sports jerseys or helmets and accessories.

Engagement Sessions-

Bring a dressy and casual look.

Men should dress to compliment the woman's wardrobe in style and color.

Steer clear of excessive jewelry that distracts from the engagement ring.

Left, the couple is wearing a casual outfit with differing colors but they compliment one another in their light natural tones.

Below they are breaking the rule of wearing white but have balanced it so that one person does not draw attention away from the other. Their wardrobes also compliment the location.

Maternity-

Simple solid colored black and white tops are favorites.

Showing your skin is acceptable.

Stretch marks can be edited out.

Tight tops that cling to the belly are fine.

Long tops should not bunch together below the belly.

Loose or stretchy pants that make it comfortable to sit and move around are best.

Long flowy skirts are comfortable.

Take your sense of style and level of comfort into account when choosing a wardrobe.

A man's button down shirt is an option.
Cardigans that button down and v-neck shirts are figure flattering.

Family-

Do not match exact outfits or wear white shirts.

Jeans and similar colors like all earth tones, blues, pastel colors etc.. are better.

You should match in style.

One person should not stand out from the others.

Left is a good example of a family matching in style and color but not matching exactly.

Bigger is Better

2010-08-29T23:47:00.001-04:00

When deciding what size print to purchase I recommend that you use a tape measure to visualize the size and placement above any furniture or in relationship to any void spaces. An 8X10 sounds like a larger size print but when you place it on an empty wall or above a piece of furniture then it will probably look smaller than you think. Above is a picture of a collage hanging in my studio. The top standout is 20X30 and the three standout prints below are 8X10, 10X10 and 8X10. Imagine what an 8X10 would look like mounted alone. What if the furniture were a couch instead of a chair? Bigger really is better when it comes to your walls.

Standouts

2010-08-27T23:28:00.001-04:00

I love this new standout collage hanging in my studio. Photographs are mounted on thick, lightweight 1.5" Gatorfoam board edged in smooth black or white trim. Standouts will make your favorite photographs standout in a room. They are available in 8x8", 8x10", 8x12", 10x10", 11x14", 10x20", 16x20", 16x24", 20x20", 20x30" sizes on regular, metallic or true B&W paper.

Cards & Invitations

2010-08-25T19:15:00.000-04:00

Session photos can be used to make customized cards and invites. There are many designs to chose from with unlimited text and color possibilities. Wedding invitations, holiday cards and birth announcements are available. Cards can be two-sided, bi-fold or single sided.

Monogram Wall Art

2010-08-17T19:34:00.001-04:00

One way of displaying your baby or child's portraits is with a beautiful monogram wall art collection. Designs can be mixed and matched with unlimited color possibilities. These are meant to be displayed as three 10X20 standouts or canvas gallery wraps. This little gal is just adorable.

Her Session Styling Guide

2010-08-14T18:10:00.000-04:00

What do I Wear?

This is one of the first questions I get when booking a portrait session. As a photographer I want you to relax and feel comfortable. When you are happy with the way you look it makes it easier for me to dig down and capture a piece of you through the lens. No one knows your personal attributes and flaws better than you. Highlight the good and tone down the bad. If there is something you are worried about let me know and we can work around it.

Think simple. Simple does not mean dull, boring or unattractive but your face should be the main focus of the portrait. Your best bet is to bring several outfit changes and if you need some advice I will be happy to help you out. I do allow wardrobe changes during sessions and encourage you to take advantage for more options when proofing.

Listed below are some suggestions for garment choices. Not every session is the same and sometimes breaking the rules can be fun. Just remember that YOU are the main focus. Have a good time and relax.

Shirts-

Blaring patterns are distracting. Instead opt for softer patterns or solids.

The best kind of necks are V-necks.

Avoid sleeveless shirts. Very few people like how their arms look in these type of shirts.

Short sleeves are ok but for women wear a bracelet or bangle to break up showing skin.

Stripes should be vertical and in a light shade.

Wear colors like black, blue, burgundy, cream and light pastel shades.

Avoid white shirts. The eye will be automatically drawn to it instead of your face.

Dark tops bring the focus up to your face and can make elegant portraits.

Also, black is slimming : )

Don't go overboard because all black can be boring. Just bring a dark top as an option.

Stay away from blaring bright oranges, purples, greens and reds. They can really bring out skin tone flaws.

No shiny fabric.

Layers are good.

Shirts should not be too short and hit at least at the hip. Accentuate your body.

Baggy clothes make you look bulky. Wear fitted tops instead.

Stay away from anything even slightly risque. More skin showing means less focus on the face.

Shirts with words and logos are distracting.

Bottoms-

Denim is a great fabric for photos.

Distressed and textured styles are great.

Stay away from extreme light washed looks on the thighs.

Avoid short skirts or shorts. Remember to avoid showing too much skin.

Accessories-

Fun funky necklaces and earrings are good.

Jackets, hats, scarves and sunglasses are also good.

Just make sure the hat will not be casting a harsh shadow on your face if outside.

Keep rings to a minimum. One large ring or none is best.

Makeup-

Wear natural looking foundation and powders.

It is a cinch for me to fix a small spot of acne but almost impossible to fix makeup that is too heavy or orange.

Hair-

Bring hairspray or product to smooth fly-aways.

Use simple accessories to pull back hair.

You may want to change hairstyles so bring a brush, mirror and water bottle.

Teens-

Express yourself.

It is ok to bring trendy fun clothing but include a simple look as well.

Bring sports jerseys or helmets and accessories.

Inspiration-

Check out the website of your favorite clothing store or one of these sites that I love for the trendy designs and simple earth tones which photograph well.

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/index.jsp

http://www.modcloth.com/

http://www.spool72.com/

http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/index.jsp

http://www.forever21.com/

http://www.buckle.com/

http://www.loft.com/

His Session Styling Guide

2010-08-14T17:30:00.000-04:00

What do I Wear?

This is one of the first questions I get when booking a portrait session. As a photographer I want you to relax and feel comfortable. When you are happy with the way you look it makes it easier for me to dig down and capture a piece of you through the lens. No one knows your personal attributes and flaws better than you. Highlight the good and tone down the bad. If there is something you are worried about let me know and we can work around it.

Think simple. Simple does not mean dull, boring or unattractive but your face should be the main focus of the portrait. Your best bet is to bring several outfit changes and if you need some advice I will be happy to help you out. I do allow wardrobe changes during sessions and encourage you to take advantage for more options when proofing.

Listed below are some suggestions for garment choices. Not every session is the same and sometimes breaking the rules can be fun. Just remember that YOU are the main focus. Have a good time and relax.

Shirts-

Blaring patterns are distracting. Instead opt for softer patterns or solids.

The best kind of necks are V-necks.

Collared shirts work well for men.

Avoid sleeveless shirts. Very few people like how their arms look in these type of shirts.

Short sleeves are ok.

Stripes should be vertical and in a light shade.

Wear colors like black, blue, burgundy, cream and light pastel shades.

Avoid white shirts. The eye will be automatically drawn to it instead of your face.

Dark tops bring the focus up to your face and can make elegant portraits.

Also, black is slimming : )

Don't go overboard because all black can be boring. Just bring a dark top as an option.

Stay away from blaring bright oranges, purples, greens and reds. They can really bring out skin tone flaws.

No shiny fabric.

Layers are good.

Shirts should not be too short and hit at least at the hip.
Baggy clothes make you look bulky. Wear fitted tops instead.

More skin showing means less focus on the face.

Shirts with words and logos are distracting.

Bottoms-

Denim is a great fabric for photos.

Distressed and textured styles are great.

Stay away from extreme light washed looks on the thighs.

Accessories-

Jackets, hats, scarves and sunglasses are also good.

Just make sure the hat will not be casting a harsh shadow on your face if outside.

Keep rings to a minimum. One large ring such as your class ring or none is best.

Hair-

Bring hairspray or product to smooth fly-aways.

You may want to change hairstyles so bring a brush, mirror and water bottle.

Men should have a clean shave.

Teens-

Express yourself.

It is ok to bring trendy fun clothing but include a simple look as well.

Wear sports jerseys or helmets and accessories.

Inspiration-

Check out the website of your favorite clothing store or one of these sites that I love for the trendy design but simple earth tones which photograph well.

http://www.buckle.com/mens

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/index.jsp

http://bananarepublic.gap.com/

http://www.jcrew.com/mens-clothing.jsp

http://www.ralphlauren.com/

Cousins

2010-08-09T22:52:00.001-04:00

Here are the beautiful cousins together. There were so many images that I loved but the last has to be my fave. I have already ordered an 11X14.

Halie & The Willow

2010-08-08T22:33:00.000-04:00

Here are Halie's images from her shoot with Chelsie. I can't wait to share their images together. The sun flare is dreamy.

Chelsie

2010-08-07T22:01:00.000-04:00

Introducing my stunning niece Chelsie. This was our first photo session since she lives out of state and was only in visiting. Ahhh she works magic on the camera lens.

Happy Birthday Accordion Mini

2010-08-05T20:56:00.000-04:00

Here is a different look at an accordion mini I recently designed for a birthday party session. This shows all twelve panels. The top image is the cover. Once folded up these measure 3" square and have a hidden magnet for soft closure.

Josiah's Birthday

2010-07-27T23:41:00.001-04:00

My friend asked me to photograph this birthday party. It was a surprise picnic style party in the park. He walked around the corner and saw the cake with balloons and gifts and his whole face lit up. What a cutie and he loved the Toy Story theme.

Kayla 2011

2010-07-23T00:02:00.000-04:00

Wow! Kayla is an absolute beauty. Her session was fun and stylish thanks to her mom and sisters for all of the help. Good luck during your senior year.

Aven is 1 Year Old!

2010-07-14T21:37:00.000-04:00

What an adorable little man. I can't decide if seeing this family interact or watching him smash his birthday cupcakes was my favorite part. Either way it was a great session. Thanks guys you warm my heart.

Holly and Vince

2010-07-12T23:18:00.001-04:00

Taking me back to the days of young love... you can't help but smile when you see these two. We were fighting off some really crazy lightning and storms to get this session done but it was totally worth it. The lighting was creamy and beautiful.

The "G" Family

2010-07-12T17:25:00.001-04:00

This session was so much fun. Mom and Dad were so laid back and their little man was happy and willing to give me a big smile any time I asked. There will be a new addition to the family soon that I can't wait to meet. Rain was threatening us but we made it work. The umbrellas and rainboots and puddles just added to the fun. Thanks guys!

Baby Tatum

2010-07-11T00:55:00.000-04:00

Tatum is such an adorable and happy baby. Here she is in all of her cuteness with her beautiful mommy.

Lindsey & Steve

2010-07-10T00:16:00.000-04:00

The way she looks at him is out of some romantic novel. Congratulations on your upcoming wedding and thank you for allowing me to photograph your engagement session.

Meshelle Senior Session

2010-07-04T00:30:00.000-04:00

Everything about this session was fun. We borrowed a skateboard and then had a police officer check to make sure we were ok while we were trying to get a jump shot. She had some great outfits and her shoes rocked.

Ashley Senior 2010

2010-07-03T21:16:00.000-04:00

It was so hot when we did this session that I had to bring along a portable fan. Ashley was a trooper and the images came out beautifully. Her mom ordered the middle lower image as her big print and it was lovely.

Mad Marley & Tu Tu

2010-06-02T22:02:00.003-04:00

Did you know pets can help people live longer? I can certainly see how having a furry little ball of love would make you happier and healthier. My daughter was having some problems in daycare with frustration and stress and I wanted a way to help her relieve those anxieties and get more in touch with her compassionate side. After researching many breeds of dog I decided to get her a Chihuahua. When I brought his cuteness home from a local breeder our lives changed. Maurissa's life changed. She had a companion that would always be there for her no matter what. She could show love and have love returned unconditionally. That love helped her to see the love that other people have for her including the totally unconditional love I have for her. She freely shares in constant hugs and kisses and mushy gushy love yous. Marley deserves a place right along side us in our family for all that he has done for us.

Marley hadn't been home long when my sister Melissa & niece Halie saw him and decided they really wanted to bring home one of his siblings. Tallulah Belle stole their heart. Tu Tu goes everywhere with my sister and she has definitely become a big part of their family.

For our doggies first birthday we celebrated with cupcakes. We had so much fun with the pictures I wanted to do things on a grander scale this year. It started with me wanting Tu Tu to wear a tu tu. I thought Marley should wear a bow tie but Melissa was certain she could make him a top hat. She has some awesome creativity flowing through those veins and pulled off their wardrobes in no time. We combined all of that with some of my nieces tea party supplies and our love of the recent Alice in Wonderland film and we got a Mad Hatter style birthday tea party. Marley could not wait to get his paws on the cupcakes but Tu Tu being the princess that she is just turned her head for and occasional cool lick from Halie's finger. It was as if she was saying, "I'm too tired so feed me."

Enjoy the sweetness of Mad Marley & Tu Tu's 2nd Birthday below.

Metallic Paper

2010-06-02T20:32:00.000-04:00

Metallic paper uses a patented combination of film and laminate layers resulting in striking three-dimensional images. Its unique pearlescent surface, resistance to tearing and curling, and ultra-bright backgrounds make it an exceptional paper to show off saturated colors in your photo. Harley's senior images were perfect for this type of paper. Aren't they gorgeous? Contact me to see paper samples available for your prints.

Harley Senior 2011

2010-06-01T23:01:00.001-04:00

Harley is my first 2011 Senior! Enjoy.

Owen

2010-06-01T21:43:00.002-04:00

There is just something I love about families and children. It is hard to explain but I find myself smiling even though I am behind the camera.This little man had the run of the show. We let him decide when he was done and he stayed happy the entire time. It was hilarious when he first showed up his mom had told him not to get his shoes dirty so he refused to step over into the grass. At least he listened! Once mom told him it was alright he had fun running from place to place. The family had requested this location & I am so glad. The abundance of color and texture made my heart soar and my head spin. Here is the cute little Owen in all his glory. He has wonderful soulful eyes and I especially adore his little crooked smile.

Baby Tucker is on the Way!

2010-05-30T01:22:00.001-04:00

I heart baby bellies! Xenia is such a beautiful expectant mother and is anxiously awaiting little Mr. Tucker.

Taylor and Family

2010-05-26T01:17:00.000-04:00

Taylor was so sweet. Mom and Dad will be getting married soon so they wanted some engagement photos after their baby girl fell asleep.

Poppy Love ♥

2010-05-16T14:13:00.001-04:00

I loaded these poppies I mean puppies up on my personal facebook page but of course had to share on my blog. My kids had so much fun running and playing. They each gave me 2 seconds of posing and that was it. Fortunately we like un-posing better. Oh and by the way I know that I am not as clever as I think I am with the blog titles but I like to pretend. : )

Poppy Fields Forever

2010-05-16T12:09:00.002-04:00

No one can pass up the beautiful poppy fields this time of year and not feel a little warming of their heart. Add a setting sun and a beautiful young lady and I swear your heart will grow three sizes. I love love love this girl and her cute little doggie Talulah which just happens to be my doggie's sister. : )

Honor the Native American Gathering

2010-05-16T11:36:00.001-04:00

This was the first annual gathering at our local fairgrounds and I hope that this continues. I want my children to know more about their Cherokee heritage. I must say that with the music and the dance my father was in honoring veterans I got caught up in the emotions and shed a few tears.

Power to the Purple

2010-05-03T00:07:00.001-04:00

Love this dress and glad it was her pick to wear on a visit to Mom & Dad's. She is also known for picking flowers she shouldn't as my old neighbor knows. This day was no different and she got her hands on a lovely bloom. All of this was perfect with the setting sun. Ahhh the magic of photography is being able to catch little moments like these.

Hello Yellow

2010-05-02T20:48:00.001-04:00

I love these yellow flowers because they fill the rural areas around here with beauty. This little session was done in about 10 minutes by pulling over on a tiny farm access road where I barely missed a ditch hidden by the overgrowth. I think I need to invest in a four wheel drive.

Accordion Albums

2010-04-29T20:21:00.000-04:00

I am in love love love with these cute little accordion style albums. They measure 3" square. Perfect for your purse. What a way to brag about your babies or your lovely family or as a way to commemorate a special time in your life. I have over 30 patterns available with unlimited text and color customization. Choose up to 12 photos to add to this mini presentation printed on pearl or linen paper. A concealed magnet allows for soft closure.

More Prom

2010-04-26T15:06:00.003-04:00

This beautiful young lady had a solo session with her date before prom. Red is my favorite color and I loved her dress. Here are a few of my favorite shots.

Prom

2010-04-22T21:35:00.002-04:00

Prom is such a huge event in high school and it is always so much fun to get dressed up like a princess for a day and stay out later than you usually are allowed. I love the dresses and the hair. Everyone looked so great and I was thankful to document that experience for some local prom goers. They finished the shoot off by leaving in a party bus. I am so jealous. Below is one of the beautiful young ladies who just happens to be my niece.

Abraham Lincoln's Birthplace

2010-04-16T23:17:00.001-04:00

It was so beautiful out today. I will be shooting prom photos tomorrow at Lincoln Farms. Today I stopped by to check things out and make a game plan. I will have to be super efficient with 26 kids in the first group.

Lollipop

2010-04-13T21:15:00.002-04:00

Taking pictures of little girls with big lollipops may be a fad but I couldn't resist jumping on the wagon when Maurissa came home with this treat for being a great helper.

Ms. "J" Senior Session

2010-04-11T12:44:00.001-04:00

What a beautiful young lady and great opportunity for photographs. She is a foreign exchange student from Germany and wanted me to do her senior portraits here in the states. The weather in Kentucky is perfect and the blooms make me glad that spring is finally here. I had a hard time finding my favorites so I decided to showcase each of her three wardrobe changes.

Easter

2010-04-07T23:58:00.003-04:00

Spring is here and the weather is unbelievable. Easter Sunday was no exception. My kids an I took advantage of a few nice spots on the way home from Mom and Dad's house. The colors out there are amazing and of course I think my kiddos are amazing too.

The "S" Family

2010-03-31T23:48:00.004-04:00

I can't even begin to describe how beautiful and wonderful this family is. Hopefully the images I have captured will give you a glimpse into what I have seen since I met them a few weeks back. It doesn't even bother me that I have gotten more compliments on my subjects than I have on my portraits.

Going into this session my goal was to have a relaxed and candid session. We took a few sit down and look at the camera poses but a lot of the time we were just letting the little guy play and interact with his mom and dad. The worst thing a parent can do during a session is try to force their child into posing. As a photographer it is my job to coax the child into certain areas. I have to be on my toes at all times. When dealing with a toddler it is up and down and all around. The main thing I want my parents to do is relax. Children feed off of our energy and to have natural, beautiful portraits the children need to be relaxed. Thankfully this family totally understood this. I have never had a totally cooperative subject but all it takes is a fraction of a second to capture the right image. Capturing the image is my job so just stay calm and have fun!