Endearing Studios

New Blog

2009-01-17T09:06:00.004-05:00

Hey Everyone! I have a new blog! It still needs some work, but I will be posting to the new blog from now on.
CLICK HERE TO CHECK IT OUT!
Make sure you update your bookmarks and rss feed! The new blog will be easier to leave comments so leave comments! I love hearing from you!

Catching Up: Mayor's Ball

2009-01-09T09:57:00.004-05:00

The holidays can get a little crazy, and I can get pretty far behind on the blog. So, here are a few images from the Mayor's Ball I photographed back in December.
To see all the photos Click Here.
The Mayor's Ball is a fundraiser in Key West for the Florida Keys Children Shelter. This year it was held at the Casa Marina. It was a beautiful evening. I know times are hard, but don't forget to help out your local organizations that give back to the communtiy. If you follow my blog at all, you know that I've been blessed to be able to do some work for the Children Shelter this past year. They are an important part of our community.

Lorena and Matt: Sneak Peek

2009-01-07T09:24:00.000-05:00

Randy and Karen: Sneak Peek

2009-01-07T09:07:00.002-05:00

Goodbye 2008... Hello 2009

2009-01-01T09:47:00.004-05:00

2008 has been quite a year! I need a nap just thinking about everything! I’ve traveled in over 40 different planes, 2 trains, and put a few miles on the ol’ Honda civic. I have been to Virginia, Connecticut, Boston, NYC, Dominican Republic, Orlando, Tampa, St Augustine, Sarasota, Kentucky, Montana, Oregon and D.C. and some of those were several times.

I photographed over 27 weddings and I have no idea how many other shoots. It has been a BUSY year… so…. I am not taking any new jobs until February. I am going to lock myself in and catch up on all those weddings, shoots, albums, and business stuff.

Looking back on the year I can’t even begin to tell you how blessed I feel. I was able to see my brother Brian married in August and my brother Neal and his family blessed with a beautiful baby girl in June. I’ve made some great new friends and had some exciting adventures with others. I’ve also been stretched/blessed by God in ways I would have never even imagined. I’ve learned (and still learning) to trust him, even when his plan is not what I think it should be. =)

I am not really sure what God has in store for 2009. I feel like He is preparing me to make some changes, but he hasn’t decided to let me in on what they are. =) For now, I am just trying to enjoy each day and not worry to much about the next.

Thank you to all my amazing clients, friends and family for making 2008 what it has been.

Happy New Years!!!

Weddings of 2008

Chris and Jessica

2008-12-31T23:34:00.003-05:00

To see the slideshow CLICK HERE

Hair: Susan Mayuyo
Make-up: Susan Mayuyo
Wedding Coordinator: Cordel Crowley from the Serenata Beach Club
Dress: Love Bridal Boutique in Jacksonville Beach, Florida
- the designer was Augusta Jones
Bridesmaid's Dresses: Alfred Angelo Bridal
Groom's Attire: Men's Warehouse
Groomsmen's Attire: Men's Warehouse
Flowers: Flowers By Shirley in St. Augustine, Florida
Ceremony Location:Serenata Beach Club
Officiate: Pastor Kirk Bane from Discovery Church in Orlando, Fl
Ceremony/Reception Music: White Rose Entertainment - Orlando, Florida - Frank was the DJ
Reception Location: Serenata Beach Club
Cake: Kakes By Katie in Jacksonville Florida
Videographer: Aren Bane

Jacob and Anne: Sneak Peek

2008-12-30T07:36:00.001-05:00

Lorena and Matt: Engagement Session

2008-12-23T22:03:00.003-05:00

To see the slideshow CLICK HERE

Dave and Patti: Wedding

2008-12-16T15:12:00.002-05:00

To see the slideshow CLICK HERE

Hair and makeup: Blu Bamboo
Nails: Eye Candy
Groom and Groomsmen Attire: Royal Robbins
Flowers: Floral Fantasy
Location: Private home Casa Eroici
Officiate:Dave Feder and Susan Ashmore
Music- Dave and Nian Feder and Dj Dwane McGreggor

Lindholm Photos

2008-12-09T20:46:00.000-05:00

Lauryn and David

2008-12-09T11:48:00.002-05:00

To see the slideshow CLICK HERE

Hair: BLU BAMBOO SPA
Make-up: BLU BAMBOO SPA
Wedding Coordinator: NICOLE MORRIS, CHEECA LODGE AND SPA
Dress: DAVID'S BRIDAL
Bridesmaid's Dresses: DAVID'S BRIDAL
Groom's Attire: MEN'S WAREHOUSE
Groomsmen's Attire: MEN'S WAREHOUSE
Flowers: PETALS WITH PIZZAZZ
Ceremony Location: CHEECA LODGE AND SPA
Officiate: CANTOR RACHELLE NELSON
Ceremony Music: MARILEE FREE AND SCOTT YOUNG
Reception Location: CHEECA LODGE AND SPA
Reception Music: MARILEE FREE
Cake: PUBLIX/BOB'S BUNS
Videographer: ROBERT KILEY

Me in Central Park

2008-12-06T17:28:00.002-05:00

My friend Jenni Carmon is here with me in New York helping me shoot a wedding. Yesterday we spent a couple hours walking through Central Park and taking photos of each other. I know... we are dorks, but I loved this shot she took of me.

Lorena and Matt: Engagement Session Sneak Peek

2008-11-29T19:05:00.003-05:00

Otto and Jocelyn

2008-11-29T10:56:00.002-05:00

Otto and Jocelyn were married at Pierre's Restaurant in Islamorada, FL. It was a beautiful wedding performed by Weddings by Michelle.
To see the slideshow CLICK HERE

Christmas Festival

2008-11-21T12:22:00.002-05:00

Don't forget to go to the Island Community Church and School's Christmas Festival this Saturday, November 22nd!
There are tons of activities for both the young and the not so young. =) They have food, games, rides, entertainment, crafts, HUGE rummage sale and an amazing auction with over 400 items!!!
My mom teaches at this school and my uncle is the principal and my other uncle is the pastor, so of course I wanted to donate to the auction. There will be a photo session (valued at $150) and a print of the beautiful sunrise image below. The fair starts at 7 am and goes until about 4:00pm. I haven't been able to attend the last few years and I am excited to be there. I will of course have my camera and will be taking photos around the festival for the church and school. If you see me make sure you say HI!

Sorry Bethany

2008-11-19T14:48:00.002-05:00

Over the past year I have been doing photos at my church for the church directory. This is not something I normally do, but it has been fun getting to meet all the different members. Of course it's a lot more fun when your friends come in to have their photo taken and you can get them to loosen up a bit. Sorry Bethany I couldn't resist posting this.

Lindholm: Sneak Peek

2008-11-19T11:52:00.004-05:00

I photographed these gorgeous siblings a couple weeks ago. I don't think they are capable of taking a bad photo. We didn't have the best weather but we were able to get a few shots of them. I especially enjoyed getting them up in the tree.

Veteran's Day

2008-11-11T13:41:00.004-05:00

Today, I am thinking and praying for all those who have served our country in time of war and of peace. It's amazing how you can go some years without thinking much about a day like today until your cousin and your brother are overseas fighting. We all love you, miss you, pray for you and can't wait till you come home!!!!

Kid's Halloween Party

2008-11-10T22:59:00.002-05:00

This family always throws great kid's parties! I had a blast photographing their halloween party this year. It's always fun to see how much the kids have grown.

To see the slideshow CLICK HERE

Sneak Peek: Jessica and Chris

2008-11-10T13:05:00.000-05:00

The Midway Family: Sneak peek

2008-11-05T12:54:00.003-05:00

I had a great shoot this morning with this beautiful family. I am excited about the images I took while the boys were searching for alligators and dinosaurs. You might recognize them from Midway Cafe their amazing little restaurant/coffee shop in Islamorada. If you haven't been in, you should definitely stop by.

Beautiful Eyes!

2008-11-04T10:21:00.003-05:00

I photographed these two beautiful siblings in Ft Lauderdale a couple weeks ago. They did such a great job even when we right next to the playground.

To see the slideshow CLICK HERE

Baby D

2008-11-04T09:39:00.002-05:00

I love photographing babies in their home. They of course feel comfortable and it makes the images more personal. Here are few of my favorites from a shoot I did with Baby *D*. His mom told me he loves to play in the sheets so we of course had to photograph that.

To see the slideshow CLICK HERE

Sneak Peek: The Girls

2008-11-02T21:33:00.002-05:00

I had a great weekend with these four beautiful girls! They are all seniors this year and we thought it would be fun to head up the state a little and get something unique for their senior photos. I am so glad we did. Here are a few as a sneak peek.

Opium Gardens South Beach

2008-10-21T15:58:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, I headed up to South Beach to photograph an event at Opium Gardens for Eventures Unlimited .

Sneak Peek: Adorable brother and sister!

2008-10-21T15:50:00.001-04:00

Lauryn and David: Sneak Peek

2008-10-19T17:07:00.001-04:00

Cheeca Lodge in Islamorada, FL

Jocelyn & Otto: Sneak Peek

2008-10-19T14:28:00.001-04:00

Pierre's Restaurant: Islamorada, FL

Back in the Florida Keys and shooting away

2008-10-19T12:58:00.002-04:00

Well, I am back in Florida after spending a beautiful couple of months in Oregon. I got back this past week and hit the ground running. Here is a sneak peek from my shoot with baby "D." Of course he has grown a ton since our first shoot when he was just a newborn!

♥

2008-10-06T22:18:00.002-04:00

VOTE FOR ME

2008-10-02T11:41:00.001-04:00

I entered a photo of my niece in a summer photo contest.
VOTE HERE
It's on page 7

Portland Oregon Wedding

2008-09-22T00:46:00.003-04:00

Most of you know I am out in Oregon for a couple months trying to avoid the heat and hurricane season. While I've been out here I've had a great time photographing with some photography friends. This was a wedding I shot with J. Carmon Photography. I always have so much fun photographing weddings with Jenni. Here are some pics.

B & R: FL Keys Wedding

2008-09-20T16:18:00.004-04:00

If you were to ask me what time of day is my favorite, it would be sunrise, and especially for weddings. This wedding was absolutely beautiful. They were married in Islamorada, FL. The beautiful bride is from Tibet so the couple incorporated her cultural wedding traditions in the ceremony. I felt so honored to be able to experience such a beautiful ceremony.

To see the slideshow CLICK HERE

2008-09-19T00:31:00.001-04:00

I love you, O LORD, my strength. Psalm 18:1

David and his girl!

2008-09-16T13:31:00.001-04:00

My girl Chris and her family

2008-09-16T01:38:00.003-04:00

After spending a few days with my good friends Jenni and Lisa I headed over to Chris's parents house for a good dinner and family portrait session. It's always a little crazy when you have this many people to photograph but there are always some good laughs.

My brother's wedding

2008-09-15T15:27:00.002-04:00

There is this rule in the photography world that says to not photograph the weddings of your friends and family, but I guess I never really agreed. I understand the ideas behind the rule but I just don't know how I could follow it. The first wedding I ever photographed was for my family and sometimes I get invited to weddings that no one else gets to because I am photographing it. So... how could I say no? This is the case with my brother Brian's wedding. It was just a small, simple wedding, but it could not have been in a more BEAUTIFUL location. He was married to my new sister Sondra =) on August 8, 2008 in Glacier National Park in Montana. Odd as it is, it was actually a "beach" wedding, but I have never had this kind of backdrop on any of the beaches I have photographed so far. I even got to be apart of picking the location. What photographer would not like that?!?! It was a beautiful day.
Sorry it took so long to get there to you guys, but I love you and miss you!!!!

To see the slideshow CLICK HERE

Yeah!

2008-09-12T13:50:00.003-04:00

Last night I did a fun shoot with my photography friends Jenni Carmon and Lisa Roah. This is Jenni's adorable daughter. She was such a good sport, but we did bribe her with Polly Pockets and Pet Shop toys =).

2008-09-08T15:40:00.002-04:00

I had the privilege of photographing a fun wedding here in Salem, Oregon on Saturday with Studio 190. I can't wait to show you more photos from this fun wedding.

Julia and Curtis Wedding Announcement

2008-09-04T16:55:00.002-04:00

Fl Keys Wedding: Sneak Peek

2008-08-25T20:41:00.004-04:00

I can't wait to share more of the photos of this beautiful wedding. It's was a quick trip back to Florida, but this beautiful wedding was worth the trip!

Julia and Curtis

2008-08-24T14:50:00.000-04:00

To see the slideshow CLICK HERE

Hair: Nuovo Salon
Make-up: MAC
Dress: La Mariee
Bridesmaid's Dresses: BCBG
Groom's Attire: Men's Wearhouse
Groomsmen's Attire: Men's Wearhouse
Flowers: Tigerlily Flowers
Ceremony Location: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Officiate: Chad Keck, Sarasota Baptist Church
Cake: Publix
Videographer: Debbie Kirkey :)

My niece and nephew

2008-08-22T21:46:00.002-04:00

A few weeks ago, I traveled to Montana for my brother's wedding. The day after the wedding my parents and I had the kids so we wanted to get a few shots of them in the park. It didn't go as planned, but I was at least able to get a couple cute ones.

Every time we would put my niece down in the grass, or sidewalk or anything she would cry!!

We ended up having to have Meme (my mom) hold her for the photos

When we let my nephew go in the park he just wanted to RUN RUN RUN... This makes it a little hard to get photos since you spend most of the time chasing him

Brette and Chris

2008-08-21T21:41:00.002-04:00

I met up on a beach in Sarasota with Brette and Chris a few weeks ago to get some engagement photos. It was a super hot day but I had a blast getting a few shots for their save-the-dates. I can't wait to photograph their wedding in the Florida Keys next spring.

Lange Pregnancy Shoot

2008-08-21T20:08:00.002-04:00

Kristin and Scott

2008-08-21T16:38:00.002-04:00

To see the slideshow CLICK HERE

Hair: Dana Bartone & Company done by Linda & Dana
Make-up: Naomi's Studio & Salon done by Candice
Dress:Christi-Anne's Bridal
Bridesmaid's Dresses:Christi-Anne's Bridal http://www.christiannes.com/main.htm
Groom's Attire: Modern Formals
Groomsmen's Attire:Modern Formals
Flowers: DeVars Phillips Florist
Ceremony Location: Mary Our Queen Church Plantsville CT
Officiate: Father William Brenza
Reception Location: The Clarion Hotel Bristol, CT
Reception Music: The Pros- DJ Kevin Williams
Cake: Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery and Pastry Shop

Adventures of Molly and Jed

2008-08-21T15:36:00.003-04:00

What a fun idea for photographing kids. Molly and Jed's mom asked if I could photograph the kids doing things that they love. I had such a great time with these two!!!

Brian (my brother) and Sondra: Sneak Peek

2008-08-12T15:09:00.002-04:00

Lucy and Matt

2008-08-04T15:34:00.004-04:00

Lucy and Matt were married the end of June in Key Largo, FL. They choose to have a beautiful beach wedding at the Marriott.

To see the slideshow CLICK HERE

Location: Marriott Resort in Key Largo, FL

Wedding Coordinator: Weddings by Michelle

Hair: Bride-Shannon Blondoletti
At Scissorhands
Bridesmaids- Tiffany's

Make-up: Shannon Blondoletti

Dress: David's Bridal

Bridesmaid's Dresses: David's Bridal

Groom's and Groomsmen Attire: Banana Republic shirts and Quicksilver shorts. Sandals at Sandal Factory.

Flowers: Enchanted Florist
Sharon-3056642012

Officiate: Lee Ganim
(772) 621-7451

Ceremony and Reception Music: Island Micah (Gardner)
(305)747-4714

Cake: Bob's Bunz

Videographer: Frazier Nivens

Julia and Curtis: Sneak Peek

2008-08-04T14:00:00.001-04:00

Sneak Peek: Cooper, Lange, Dave & Lauryn , Blu Bamboo

2008-07-31T10:25:00.004-04:00

Cooper Family

Lange Pregnancy Shoot

Dave and Lauryn Engagement Shoot

Blu Bamboo Saloon and Spa

New Dive Door

2008-07-29T09:14:00.002-04:00

This past Friday I did a shoot for Hydra-Sport and Plantation Boat Mart showcasing the dive door on their new boat. This thing is great. It makes getting in and out of the boat a lot easier!!! I love the idea of not having to get in the boat right next to the motors.

I loved this shot, even though it's not really showcasing the correct use of the door =). It's fun.

"I can't believe you are a mom!"

2008-07-26T19:36:00.004-04:00

While in Connecticut for Kristen and Scott's wedding, I spent some time with my good friend Shannon and her family. Eight years ago, I met Shannon while living in Orlando. I only lived there for less then a year, but in that time Shannon and I crammed in about 5 years of living. Ohhhh the stories! =)
Now, eight years later, I am photographing her beautiful little girl, and I can't believe it! There were so many times I would turn to Shannon and say "You are a mom!" It was such a blessing to sit there and watch her fill the role of wife and mother in such a beautiful way. And I can not even begin to tell you how much fun it is to photograph her gorgeous little girl!

While I was there, I also had the opportunity to photograph Shannon's niece! She had no problem hamming it up for the camera!

Molly and Jed: Sneak Peek

2008-07-24T22:07:00.002-04:00

4 Years Later

2008-07-23T18:50:00.004-04:00

Four Years ago I photographed the wedding of Ashley and Geoff at the Islander Resort. They contacted me a few weeks back to let me know they were going to be in the Keys on vacation and they wanted to set up a time for me to photograph their beautiful little girl Annika. I feel so honored that I have been apart of so many beautiful wedding days, but it is an even bigger honor when I have the opportunity to continue to be apart of their lives.

Birth Announcements

2008-07-23T09:23:00.004-04:00

Just a few weeks ago my family grew by one more. My niece Adelaide was born. Because of my traveling, I haven't had a chance to meet her myself, but my brother sent me a photo of her so I could design a birth announcement. I used the photos that I shot of Riley and Wyatt and added in the one of my new niece! The card below is a tri-fold card. So, it would actually read like this:

1. Once upon...
2. In a land...
3. Lived a beautiful...
4. And now...
5. Their precious...
6. Designed...

Congrats Neal and Michelle.... She is beautiful and I can't wait to meet her!

Leaving for the Season

2008-07-22T10:59:00.002-04:00

The months of August and September are not the best times to be in Florida.

If the heat doesn't get ya.

The Hurricanes will!

So, I am off to the complete other side of the country to spend the next couple months. I will be heading out of the Keys August 1. If you are wanting to get a shoot in before I leave please let me know as soon as possible. The remaining slots are filling up fast.
I will be in Oregon till season picks back up in October.

You can still reach me at the same number and e-mail. While I am in Oregon, I will be doing photography work. Let me know if you want to set something up. I am looking forward to the slower season. It's been a busy wedding year and I can't wait to get all those wedding albums finished for my anxious brides =).

Back to Florida

2008-07-21T08:43:00.001-04:00

I just got back from my trip to the Northeast. I will try to get back to all who are waiting to hear from me in the next couple days. I had a great trip. Enjoy some of the photos I took in NYC.

Kristin and Scott: Sneak Peek

2008-07-20T19:05:00.002-04:00

Best Friends: Sneak Peek

2008-07-17T15:10:00.002-04:00

Life isn't Fair

2008-07-16T19:27:00.001-04:00

Just a little update. I am in Connecticut with friends for the week. I shot a beautiful wedding this past weekend... will post that later. I'll be back in the office next week.

Cousins: Sneak Peek

2008-07-14T20:50:00.000-04:00

I love green

2008-07-09T11:10:00.002-04:00

I know we live in the Florida Keys and so many times we want to get photos with the beautiful water as a background, but I LOVE GREEN!!!!!! I love the way it contrast the color of skin and they way you are able to focus on the faces instead of the background. Monday morning I photographed these two adorable brothers. If you are a frequent visitor of the blog, I am sure you recognize the two of them. I love seeing how much they grow and change. The first shoot I did for this family was when the oldest was only 7 months old!!! Boy how time flies!!!!

Busy Weekend

2008-07-07T12:22:00.003-04:00

This past weekend was BUSY! I am about to leave for Kristen's wedding in Connecticut this week, but before I go I wanted to give everyone a sneak peek from what I was shooting this past weekend.

Saturday was the Hammon Family.

My Aunt Colleen and Uncle Tony with all their grandkids!!!

Sunday was Annika

Annika is the baby girl of a couple I photographed on their wedding day 4 YEARS AGO!!

Monday was Hutch and Justin

This is a familiar face to this blog... He's so adorable!!!

As soon as I get a chance I will be posting more photos from each of these shoots. I'll be in Conneticut from the 8th-19th. If you are in the area and wants some photo done, let me know.

Doug and Maradythe: Morada Bay

2008-07-06T21:00:00.000-04:00

Doug and Meredyth were married at Morada Bay in Islamorada on May 14th. This was another beautiful wedding designed by Weddings by Michelle. The Ceremony was performed by Susan Ashmore.
To see the slideshow CLICK HERE

Happy 4th of July from 1988

2008-07-04T15:55:00.000-04:00

Eric and Beth: Kentucky

2008-07-02T00:39:00.004-04:00

In May, I had the opportunity to go back to my old stomping grounds in Kentucky for the wedding of Eric and Beth. They were married in Estes Chapel which is across the street from where I went to College, Asbury College. Eric and I went to school together and his family was a big part of my life. It was so great to see everyone. Beth is the perfect fit to this amazing family. I enjoyed being apart of their big day. Here are a few of the photos I took. To see the slideshow CLICK HERE

Eric's last name is Bentley so it was only fitting to have a Bentley there to take them to the Reception.

Congrats again you too!

5,000

2008-07-01T17:24:00.002-04:00

I owe a thanks to all my blog readers because I've received over 5,000 hits since April!!!! I enjoy being able to share my photography and personal world to all those who want to see and listen. Over the next couple months I'll be making some changes to the blog, but you'll still be receiving all the same content. It will just be a little easier to navigate and leave comments... Yeah... I LOVE comments!!!!!
I tried to find a trivia question related to 5,000 but couldn't really find one.... so, the first person to leave a comment with five countries I have traveled to, will win a 10$ itunes gift card or an 8x10 print. (The money above is not a clue it's just what came up when I googled 5,000.) Good Luck!

Melissa and Justin: Ocean Reef

2008-07-01T13:12:00.002-04:00

The end of May I had the opportunity to photograph the wedding of Melissa and Justin. These two planned their destination wedding all the way from Colorado. This was another beautiful wedding held at the Ocean Reef in Key Largo, FL.

To see slideshow CLICK HERE

Hair and Makeup-Ocean Reef Spa and Salon
Wedding Coordinator- Ocean Reef Catering Kristi Strang
Dress-Maggie Sottero
Bridesmaids Dresses-B2
Grooms Attire- Burberry
Groomsmen's Attire- Tommy Bahama
Flowers-Floral Solutions
Ceremony Location- Ocean Reef Club Beach
Officient-Rev. Lee G. Ganim
Ceremony Music- Keyboardist Vox Blu
Reception Location-Ocean Room, Ocean Reef Club
Reception Music-Vox Blu
Cake- Ocean Reef Club

Lucy and Matt: Sneak Peek

2008-06-30T11:47:00.000-04:00

Dan and Daviana

2008-06-26T18:03:00.004-04:00

While I was down in the Dominican last week I had the opportunity to take some photos of this gorgeous couple! The weather was horrible that day. I wasn't sure if we were going to be able to get any photos without rain, but the skies opened up and we were even able to find some sunset color for the photos.
It was great spending time with you two! I know your wedding next spring will be perfect!

Baby Boy Richardson

2008-06-26T14:07:00.002-04:00

While I was in Kentucky a few weeks ago I was able to visit with Ruthanne, a girl I use to live with in College. I wish we could have had more time to spend together, but I am glad we at least had the time we did. Here are a few shots I was able take of her new baby boy!

A little camera shy

Dan and Daviana: Sneak Peek

2008-06-23T17:17:00.001-04:00

From the Dominican

Doug & Meredythe: Sneak Peek

2008-06-18T09:32:00.001-04:00

First Kiss

My Dad

2008-06-15T13:26:00.003-04:00

I want to start with a story.
This story takes place a few years ago when my dad was still coaching football. I think it was half time and the game was pretty intense. His adrenaline was going as he was talking to the kids on the team. He was getting them pumped up and he ended his speech by telling them to go out and give the other team hell. Now most people wouldn't think anything of this. I am sure most, who have played any sport, would say that they have heard a lot worse from their coaches, but for my dad, it wasn't ok. The next practice he pulled the guys together and apologized for what he said. Some of the guys that were on that team, told me this story. They said to me that my dad was so much more then a coach to them. He was someone they could look up to, someone they could respect. I could tell you about a hundred more stories I've heard by different people I have meet through the last few years. Some of them played ball for him, others were students, but they all basically say the same things. They tell me how much they respect him, how much he influenced their lives, or they just want to tell me how great he is. I can't help but agree. Of course I may be a little bias, because he is my dad, but I think he is one of the greatest men. He's never really the center of attention or even much of a talker, but he is the kinda person that when he does have something to say, you listen. He lives his life with such integrity but yet with humility.
I don't get to spend Father's Day with him because he is up in Virginia with my mom and my brother's family, but I just wanted him to know how much I love him and how thankful I am he is my dad. Happy Father's Day Dad!

Baby Cayden

2008-06-14T10:24:00.002-04:00

On my way back from Virginia I stopped in Orlando to meet the beautiful baby girl, Cayden. I am so glad this little stop worked out because Cayden was a Joy to photograph.

This little family had the most adorable house. I particular loved using this chair as a "backdrop" for Cayden's photos

Dad really wanted to get this shot, but Cayden wasn't liking it, but I was able to get at least one before she started to cry =).

UH OH! Dad is in trouble. Cayden already has some expensive taste

Mama loves pink so we of course had to get some PINK photos.

Suzzanah and Marco

2008-06-14T09:50:00.001-04:00

To see the slideshow CLICK HERE

Ceremony Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL
Officiate: Father Liam Quinn
Flowers: David George
Hair: Salon Santiago
Make-up: CMCMakeup
Bride’s Dress: Happy Bride Couture
Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Macy's
Groom’s Clothing: Las Olas Tuxedo
Groomsmen Clothing: Nordstrom
Limo: Millenium Limo

Baby Cayden: Sneak Peek

2008-06-13T18:12:00.001-04:00

Tinker Bell and Wyatt

2008-06-11T11:50:00.002-04:00

Here are some more of the photos from yesterday's adventure to the Botanical Garden.

The Norfolk Botanical Garden has a GREAT kids area and since it was about 100 degrees yesterday we thought it was a good idea for the kids to run through the fountains. I am so glad we did because I love these next photos. =)

Tinker Bell: Sneak Peek

2008-06-10T22:49:00.003-04:00

Some of you already know that I had to take an unplanned trip to Virginia this past week. My sister-in-law is due any day and my brother had to leave earlier then expected. (He is in the military) Well, there is still no baby yet =( but I did get take some photos of my niece and nephew while I've been up here. Meme (my mom) made my niece this amazing Tinker Bell costume for her birthday. This thing is beautiful. We thought the Norfolk Botanical Gardens would be the perfect place to take some photos of the costume. Here is just one of the hundreds of photos I took. I'll post more later. Tomorrow I am flying to Orlando to meet and photograph a newborn baby girl and then I head back to South Florida on Friday. I hope you enjoy this photo of my BEAUTIFUL niece!

Melissa and Justin: Sneak Peek

2008-06-03T13:57:00.002-04:00

Titia and Rik

2008-05-28T19:59:00.005-04:00

After posting the wedding of Kristin and John last week, the visitor map for the blog went all over the world. John’s Family was from the UK and both Kristin and John spent time in Bremuda, so it was interesting to watch the visitor markers pop up all over.

After this week, there should be even more visitors pop up on the map. Titia’s family came all the way from Belgium to be apart of their wedding in the Florida Keys on May 7. It was a beautiful day. To view the slideshow CLICK HERE

Ceremony Location: St James the Fisherman Episcopal Church
Officiate: Father Ronald Jonhson
Make-up: Kiki spa (marianne)
Hair: Shear paradise
Dress: Demetrios
Flowers: Coconut Cove (Magda Bathes)
Reception Location: Coconut Cove
Limo: Luxury Limo, key largo
Music: Jack Mc Intosh

Eric and Beth: Sneak Peek

2008-05-26T15:09:00.001-04:00

Kristin and John

2008-05-21T20:06:00.003-04:00

If you met on island doing marine research, the Florida Keys would of course be your top choice of places to get married. Kristin and John decided on May 3, 2008 at the Coconut Palm Inn in Key Largo. It was a little hot (I almost had my first fainting bride) but a beautiful day. During the ceremony, the guests were asked to drop a flower into the water and give a little wish or prayer for the couple. You could see these little personal touches throughout the day. To see the slideshow CLICK HERE

Hair and Make-up: Blu Bamboo
Dress: Jaquelin (bought in Ohio)
Flowers: bouquets/butineers Fantasy Floral centerpieces with flowers purchased at Field of Flowers: put together by bride and friends
Catering: Caribbean Catering
Cake: Bobs Bunz

Sisters

2008-05-20T14:57:00.002-04:00

I have to admit, I've always been a little jealous of the relationship that sisters have. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE my brothers, but there is something so different in the relationship sisters share with each other. Last night, I headed down to Grassy Key to photograph these two blond beauties! I couldn't resist using the sun as backlighting. They were just so precious!

Sadie- I had such a great time catching up with you and photographing your beautiful family. We have to do it again soon!

Montana Wedding?

2008-05-15T13:58:00.003-04:00

No, I didn't photograph a wedding in Montana, but I want to. For several reasons.

One: All the wedding photos I see of Montana weddings are beautiful. I love stepping out of the box and getting a chance to shoot something different. And Montana is a lot different then the beach weddings I normally do.

Two: My beautiful niece and nephew! My brother is about to move his family from Arizona to Montana and I would love a chance to go visit them. I haven't even had a chance to meet my niece!

(My parents were out visiting my brother in March and my mom took these photos of Papa (my dad) with the grandkids. I told you she taught me everything I know =)

Three: Fly Fishing. I love to fly fish and I hear it is beautiful there!

Four: The summers in the Keys are VERY VERY Hot. It would be nice to be somewhere a little cooler.

(I googled scorching hot and this is an image that came up =)

So, If anyone is planning on a wedding in Montana this summer and you need a photographer. Let me know. I might be able to get you a deal =).

Then and Now

2008-05-15T12:50:00.002-04:00

This morning I photographed a beautiful baby girl that I photographed at just a couple weeks old about 9 months ago. It is so much fun to see how much they change in that first year.
I think she liked me holding her more then she liked me photographing her because every time I picked her up she would give me the biggest grin. =) I guess those years as a nanny come in handy in baby photography.

Then

Now

Don't you just love those beautiful eyes!

This is a Father's Day gift so if you know these little girl DON'T TELL HER DADDY!!!! =)

Meghan and Charlie

2008-05-14T14:25:00.002-04:00

If I were to describe the wedding I photographed on April 26th in one word, it would be FUN! When Meghan and Charlie decided to have their wedding in the Florida Keys, the Ocean Reef Club was their venue choice. I always love shooting weddings here because the Reef wedding planners do such a great job at making sure everything runs smoothly. Meghan and Charlie said their "I do's" on the beach before moving into the Ocean Room for their reception. (I posted a few shots of this crazy reception in a previous post.
To see their slideshow Click Here.

Meghan and Charlie, Welcome back from Italy! I hope you had a wonderful honeymoon! Thank you for allowing me to be apart of such a fun celebration of your love.

Ceremony Music: FAU Music department
Officiate: George Gentile
Florist: R.F Orchids
Location: Ocean Reef
Rings: Stampar Jeweler
DJ: Sean McCourt with Party Pros
Cake: Ocean Reef
Dress: Jessica McClintock
Bridesmaid Dresses: Jessica McClintock
Grooms Attire: Men's Wearhouse
Groomsmen Attire: Men's Wearhouse
Makeup: Stephanie Simkin
Hair: Debra Land

Suzannah and Marco: Sneek Peek

2008-05-12T08:05:00.001-04:00

Happy Mother's Day Kathy

2008-05-11T17:29:00.003-04:00

On Thursday my cousin Kathy was blessed with the birth of her second child, a baby girl! I had a wedding in Ft Lauderdale on Saturday so I was able to head up to West Palm before the wedding and get some photos of the new addition!

Happy Mother's Day Kathy! I love you!

Happy Mother's Day to my wonderful Aunt Colleen. I know you are enjoying your new granddaughter on this day!

Not a Mother's Day photo, but I just love this photo I got of Kathy's father-in-law with his grandaughter.

Some of my favorite things...

2008-05-11T09:20:00.005-04:00

...about my mom

Her Wisdom
Anyone who has ever talked to me about a situation or needed advice has heard me say, "Like my mom always says..."

Her Passion/ Talent
Although my mom is a talented artist, that is not her passion. Her passion goes far beyond creating art of her own. Her passion is sharing art with the hundreds of students that have walked through her classroom door. Not only does she go above and beyond to teach her students the beauty of art, she is also a mentor and speaks words of love and kindness into their lives.

Her Love
I have watched her love my dad over the years in a way that is hard to find. I can not even begin to express how grateful I am for the example of love that their relationship is to me. It is gift that so many children never have the opportunity to receive.

Her Friendship
My mother is so much more to me then a mother. She is my best friend. We can sit and talk for hours about love and life. She is the first person I go to when I need advice. She loves me no matter how many times I disappoint and sometimes we can start laughing so hard that we cry.

Her Example
The way she lives her life and her love for God and others has taught me more then words or instruction ever could. I know that one day I will be a better wife, mother and woman of God because of the example she has been to me.

-My mom and I in matching dresses that she made.

Happy Mother's Day to my biggest fan and the one who taught me everything I know.

Titia and Rik: Sneak Peek

2008-05-08T21:28:00.002-04:00

Sneak Peek: Kristin and John

2008-05-05T22:38:00.000-04:00

A Box for me

2008-05-02T10:54:00.004-04:00

I am constantly finding boxes at my front door. Usually they are filled with print orders from the lab, equipment I ordered from B&H, or albums or products. So, when I discovered a box yesterday I didn't think much of it, until I opened it up. It was a gift... for me... from one of my beautiful brides, Alli, of Alli and Adam from a few weeks ago. I could not believe it. I sifted through the shredded packing paper to find a canister of gypsy tea (fair trade which makes it even better.) I then found an amazing hand made mug wrapped up in a beautiful vintage inspired cloth (I love anything vintage.) The mug had butterflies, BUTTERFLIES! I don't know if Alli knew this but my Grandma Hammon LOVED butterflies. She had a sweater full of butterfly pins and at church people would sometimes buy a butterfly and pin it on her sweater, so... I LOVE Butterflies! And then, the most beautiful gift of all, her words. Inside was a card, handwritten with beautiful words (I am always jealous of people who write pretty.) I won't write it all out but here is a little excerpt: (Alli, I hope you don't mind.)

"You were a priceless addition to our wedding and I'm thankful to have had you as one of our few witnesses (of course, capturing it in a way no one else possibly would!)"

Thank you Alli and Adam! Your thoughtfulness was much appreciated!

Never a small dinner

2008-05-02T09:53:00.002-04:00

Sunday, the family met at Outback, because my beautiful, almost 89-year-old, grandma was in town. When your mom is one of 7 kids, a "little" get together with family is no small thing. And this isn't even half of them!

Island Community Church

2008-05-01T10:42:00.002-04:00

So, I was asked by my church to work on a project to create a church directory. So the last couple weeks I have been photographing the families in my church. This is not the type of photography I typically do but It's been fun to be able to photograph so many of the wonderful people in my church family.

To see all the pics click here

Christin and Norbert

2008-04-29T16:03:00.003-04:00

Before heading up to Virginia last week I photographed the wedding of Christin and Norbert. They were married in Key Largo at the Ocean Reef Club. They had a beautiful ceremony on the lawn before moving the party to the rooftop of Town Hall.

Location: Ocean Reef
Videographer: Frazier Nivens

Ring

2008-04-29T14:04:00.003-04:00

I was sitting at my desk when I got a text from my friend Lauren..." Go look at the sun. There is a circle around it." So, I of course grabbed my camera and walked outside. I am still seeing a little fuzzy from looking at the sun, but I grabbed this shot before I headed back to the computer. This made me even more excited to finally take a day off tomorrow and rejuvenate my creativity.

Fun with photos

2008-04-29T12:30:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I needed to let someone special know that I was excited for them and their new job... so I created this. I had so much fun doing it and it was a great exercise with photographing with the macro. Hope you enjoy!

Crazy Fun!!!

2008-04-28T13:26:00.004-04:00

On Saturday I shot the wedding of Meghan and Charlie at Ocean Reef. I'll post more later but I couldn't wait to show you how much fun this reception was. I have never seen such an insane love for dancing! It was such a blast to photograph!