Photographic Memories

Santa's Arrival!

2011-12-06T13:29:00.000-08:00

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas! Such was the case at the home of the D. family, who host their annual Snacks with Santa. I am always honoroed to be the evenings photographer...

The Heacock's

2011-11-06T19:21:00.000-08:00

Another fall portrait session. There was alot of laughter throughout this session. Between takes the boys enjoyed rolling down hills and races....that always keeps the mood light. Which results in some very natural and fun photos....

Little E

2011-11-06T11:31:00.000-08:00

I was so pleased to get a call from long time friends who I had not seen for far to long. In fact, the last time I ran into our friends, the Mrs was pregnant with her daughter. It's just a matter of life taking us different places. Today I was photographing her daughter who was about to celebrate her 4th birthday. Life goes by so quickly, if we blink we miss it. The occasion for the session was not as much about the birthday, it was for the curls. Her mother was ready to give her daughter her first haircut, potentially losing those curls. She wanted to preserve them through photographs. I can't think of a more perfect way to do so!

BEAUTIFUL!

I cannot express my joy at the outcome of our session, but her mother's reaction said it best, "I cried tears of joy....just perfect!"

Perfect indeed.

Though it had nothing to do with the photographer.

The Vowels Family

2011-11-06T11:16:00.000-08:00

This was a day where I had 2 sessions to maximize the gorgeous fall foliage. This photo shoot was with the Vowels Family.
Such a precious family, with such truly thoughtful, kind considerate children!

I always seem to have a favotire shot from each particular session, this one was it for me.
I love the couple, with their children running in the background.
Of course, not even posed, the children just took off running and landed into the background.
LOVE IT!

The Mr. and Mrs....

And another, non posed, just a capture of the children hugging one another.
Can't recall this shot ever just "happening" among my children. LOL

The Claridy Family

2011-11-06T10:35:00.000-08:00

Tis the season for perfect fall folage....which means gorgeous photo ops and back drops.
Case in point for the Claridy Family photo shoot....

Sam, their dog is very much a part of this family.
I wanted her view of a family portrait. And I love it....

Twin Brotherly moments...

I love the way the parents are looking at on another in this next shot.
I also have a weakness for this kind of light.
Camera's these days are created to avoid and weed out this light.
Me?
I work hard to capture it.
Its magical.
It lends to a fairytale story...

I have a shot of my children like this that I call "Run towards the light"
I just love it.
So much, I wanted to recreate it for the Claridy children....

This picture has a story behind it. Sean likes to give one of those unnatural smiles.
Ones that many boys his age give.
I was determined to break it.
Well, I gave him an unexpected punch in the stomach (no....not hard)
and it got him to give a natural laugh.

Whatever works...right moms?

A punch for a natural smile....priceless!

Another sweet family shot...

What myself and Michael (the dad) like to call, "The album cover shot"....

Such fun! Great job, Claridy's!

Patricia & Alan

2011-11-05T20:00:00.000-07:00

I love location shots. Almost as much as I love these people....my cousin and his lovely fiance'....

Shelby County Republican Party's 2011 Reagan-Lincoln Dinner

2011-07-19T07:13:00.000-07:00

I was honored to be the photographer for the evening again this year, at the Shelby County Republican Party's 2011 Reagan-Lincoln Dinner. This year the dinner was held at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center in Hoover.

Herman Cain, Republican candidate for president, was the featured guest speaker for the July 16 occasion.

Shelby County, widely recognized as the most Republican county in Alabama, is ranked among the most heavily Republican in the nation, and figures significantly in the success of each statewide Republican candidate.

Cain, whose successes in the corporate world included Fortune 500 companies such as Coca-Cola and Pillsbury, became President and CEO of Godfather’s Pizza. He also held a position on the Board of Directors of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City and hosted a radio talk show, “The Herman Cain Show,” (on Atlanta’s WSB 750 AM/95.5 FM). Full details on Mr. Cain, who announced his bid for the Republican Presidential Nomination on May 21, may be found at http://www.hermancain.com/.

As always there were many familiar faces in the crowd. Here are a few faces from the evening that I know very well.....

Herman Cain with House Representative (AL, district 49), April Weaver and her husband, Dr. Darrel Weaver. April also served as honorary co-chair for the event.

Herman Cain with Susan Todt (left). Susan serves on the ALGOP executive committee from Shelby County.

Herman Cain with the city of Helena's mayor, Sonny Penhale.

Herman Cain with the city of Hoover's mayor, Tony Petelos.

My good friends, Laura Beth and TJ Joseph, pictured with Herman Cain. Laura Beth serves on the planning committee for such events and does a wonderful job in organizing.

The following photo is of myself (right) as well as my assistant, Morgan Myers pictured with Mr. Cain. I had to laugh when I got home to see this photograph, taken by a kind person at the event who offered to take our picture with Mr. Cain. I suppose this is why there is a photographer for the evening...

Life is about the laughs.

Special thanks to the Shelby County Republican Party for once again having me this year. I am always honored and excited to be a part of such a wonderful night. My sincere thanks!

The Heacock's

2010-12-26T22:18:00.000-08:00

It was a joy to work with these two boys, each having such unique and joyful personalities. Such gentlemen.

The Arther Family

2010-11-28T11:58:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving. It should be a day when you reflect on your blessings...and hopefully surrounded by them.
I was. I spent my Thanksgiving with my family, intermediate and extended. My cousin asked me to take some pictures of her family for her Christmas card. I was all to happy to do so.
Hope your Thanksgiving was a blessed one.

Kovalchick Family

2010-11-18T17:50:00.000-08:00

What a fun photo shoot spent on the campus of the University of Alabama with the Kovalchick (Haynie/Matthews) Family. This is another very special family to me, one that I have also been photographing for years...and one that makes me feel a part of the family!
What a fun day...despite the scary "non fearful" squirrels, who have no fear of humans. It made me a bit nervous.
Roll Tide Roll!

The Carson Family

2010-11-18T17:41:00.000-08:00

It's always a fun day when I get to photograph the Carson Family. I have been photographing them for a few years now. They hold a special place in my heart. And speaking as a photographer......who couldn't adore a family that brings their own props!!!!
TY, Carson's for an enjoyable day. I forget I am "working".

Pate Family

2010-10-15T20:23:00.000-07:00

I was thrilled to be able to photograph the Pate family! Jenny and Bryan went to middle and high school with me and my husband. They were sweethearts then, and it was evident {at the shoot} that they still are. It was my pleasure to shoot such a beautiful family. Beautiful in so many many ways. Thanks Jenny and Bryan for including me in your family day!

Madison and her Lovely Momma

2010-10-11T14:22:00.000-07:00

What a perfect fall day for a mommy-daughter shoot.
The weather couldn't have been more gorgeous!
Madison and her mother, Suzanne had a mini shoot booked inside Madison's sister's (Courtney) maternity shoot. Madison is a soon to be aunt...and her mother, Suzanne a first time grandmother. No wonder everyone is "glowing".

Maternity Shoot with Courtney and Ryon

2010-10-11T14:15:00.000-07:00

Courtney and Ryon are expecting a baby....like any moment.

We hurried through their maternity shoot amid contractions, certain I was going to through Courtney into full out labor. Thank goodness, the only thing I had to deliver was portraits of this special moment in their lives.
Congratulations to Courtney and Ryon and baby on board, Olivia.

The Rutledge Family

2010-09-05T20:11:00.000-07:00

Today I photographed the Rutledge Family (who happens to be my brother and his gorgeous family). They were smart and wanted to go ahead and scheduled their Christmas card portraits before the rush of the season. I highly recommend it for anyone who is considering it.
It's always a joy to be around my nieces. They love their "Crazy Aunt Leigh". And I love them to the moon and back.

Molly Griffin, Personal Stylist

2010-09-04T20:34:00.000-07:00

I was contacted last week by Molly, a personal stylist, to do some print photography for her business. As I began chatting with Molly, I knew a fun shoot lie ahead. And I was correct. Molly is a very driven, artistic and energetic person. She and I began to shoot emails of ideas back and forth and soon realized we were on the same page with ideas. And then, we brought it to life! I cannot say enough about Molly, what a incredible personality, a gracious soul, and one who certainly has "style" in so many ways. Thanks Molly!

If you are interested in Molly's services or to read Molly's blog:
Styled By Molly
Molly Griffin, Personal Stylist

Business and Home Seminars
Personal Shopping
Wardrobe Revamping
Special Event Styling
334.221.2315 (mobile)
mgriffin629@gmail.com

BLOG: http://blog.al.com/styled-by-molly/index.html

The Stegall's

2010-08-29T19:45:00.000-07:00

The Wedding of Andrea and Lamar

2010-08-29T19:37:00.000-07:00

The Vowels

2010-07-23T14:16:00.000-07:00

Taylor

2010-07-13T16:32:00.000-07:00

An all around "American girl next door", Taylor is one of those with natural beauties. And she has the sweetest most genuine personality to match.

Congratulations Senator Cam Ward....

2010-06-02T21:18:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to State Senator Cam Ward and his family! My sincere appreciation to the Ward's for inviting me to photograph their Election Night at Vinzini Winery in Calera. What a beautiful place! It was a wonderful, festive evening.

The Matthews Family

2010-05-23T21:22:00.000-07:00

Baby in tutu. What could be cuter? Aja was like an old pro during her photography shoot today. Thx to the Matthews Family for sharing & trusting her to me.

"Gov-na"

2010-05-19T21:26:00.001-07:00

It isn't everyday that I get to hang out with the Governor.
I was the photographer for the evening at the Shelby County GOP Annual Dinner.

Prom Night

2010-04-17T18:46:00.000-07:00

I was honored to shoot some portraits for my friend's son who was attending the Thompson HS Prom. We shot at Aldridge Gardens. What a gorgeous day...and a gorgeous couple!

Going to the Chapel....

2010-04-16T22:13:00.000-07:00

.....To photograph John & Sarah.
Big Daddy and I have known John for the better part of twenty five years.
I was honored when he and his lovely bride, Sarah, asked me to capture their wedding day.

His ring says to Honor & Love

They make a lovely couple. All the best!

Promotional Photography

2010-04-16T08:37:00.000-07:00

Jeanne's 80th Birthday

2010-04-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

Jeannie's Birthday Celebration

2010-04-16T08:21:00.000-07:00

SCGOP

2010-04-16T08:19:00.000-07:00

I was the photographer of the evening for the SCGOP, featuring State of Alabama Governor Bob Riley.

Cam Ward Reception

2010-04-16T08:17:00.000-07:00

This event was a reception honoring Cam Ward in his campaign for Senate.
Location: Magnolia Manor, Helena, Al.

Mae (Almost 2!) Mini Session

2010-04-16T08:15:00.000-07:00

Old Cahaba Easter

2010-04-16T08:11:00.000-07:00

The Singh's

2009-12-21T22:08:00.000-08:00

I have known the Singh's for several years through both the ballpark and school events, but it was until only recently that they realized I am a photographer. I was delighted when Shweta commented on my facebook Photographic Memories album, and praised me on the photography. She was anxious for me to photograph her family of three and capture their family in film.
I love all the photos from the session, but these first three were just priceles...

Here are some other wonderful moments from their session:

He Knows if You've been Naughty or Nice.....

2009-12-15T22:06:00.000-08:00

Not all children can appreciate Santa Claus.
Case in point, Jackson, my friend,Diva's young son.

But I CAN appreciate a photo like this. While momma may not be happy because not everyone is all smiles, this photo truly captures Jackson's reaction to St Nick this year in his life. Next year may be different.
And that is why I love photography.
Capturing memories.
For to me, this picture is priceless.
I look the liberty of adding the text, which I thought both humorous and appropriate.
Diva chose the poka dot version for her Christmas card.

Harris Family

2009-12-07T13:44:00.000-08:00

The Harris Family are return clients, a precious family. This year they wanted to create a Christmas card from their photography session. In speaking with them, I had an idea of what the family might want. I came up with these options....

Do you have an idea in mind for a Christmas card that you want to bring to life through photography?
Book a session with Photographic Memories today.

Santa Drops by to pay a visit to some lucky Helena Children.

2009-12-07T13:29:00.000-08:00

Every year, as tradition promises, my friend Diva host breakfast with Santa in her home. Family and friends are invited to share some one on one time with Santa. He comes and reads one of his favorite Christmas stories, "The Night Before Christmas". As children munch of goodies, Santa takes the time to listen to each and every wish list and has a photograph taken for prosperity. I am the lucky photographer commissioned for the event. I have to say, it's great to have a working realtionship with Santa. Maybe one day he will put on full salary. Smile. Thanks Flo and Santa, and for all the families who trust me in capturing those annual Christmas smiles! This is just a very small number of photographs taken that day....

Old Cahaba Neighborhood Christmas Open House

2009-12-07T13:12:00.000-08:00

Thank you for allowing me to photograph your children and families at the Old Cahaba Neighborhood Christmas Open House.It was a pleasure for me to photograph the event, for there is nothing like seeing Christmas through the eyes of a child. Once again, thank you for allowing me to be a part of capturing your Christmas memories!
Merry Christmas!

It's Miller Time

2009-11-22T17:18:00.000-08:00

Sister Sledge

2009-11-08T20:10:00.000-08:00

The Gingras Family

2009-11-08T09:17:00.000-08:00

The Gingras family are truly special to me, they are friends. Lauren and I grew up together and have shared many of life's moments together. It was a joy to photograph her precious family last week. The weather was perfect, the leaves at their peek and full of color.
Children Anna-Scott and Bradley were so polite and were very accomidating to my many request and photo opportunites, as was their sweet daddy, Danny.

The occasion for the session was to get a family Christmas card shot. There were so many great shots, I think the decision of which photo to use will be the most difficult. Obviously, I posted my favorites. I think the first shot really captures the Gingras family spirit as a loving family that are there for one another. But I also loved the photo below, just reworked in two differnt ways for a different feel...

Thank you, Gingras Family, the pleasure was all mine. I love you all.

Dassau

2009-10-26T15:07:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of photographing my friend, Diva's son, "J", before she was to have his curls cut off. We had a wonderful time together. Her son was so well behaved and did so well at the session.

Alot to ask of a baby boy. I got some good smiles and expressions the entire time.

Well almost... it was only when a train ran through town, close to where we were shooting, and scared him for only a seond. But it was a cute second. And I managed to capture that expression too.

Priceless!

Miss Harvest Beauty Contest

2009-10-26T15:05:00.000-07:00

I assisted in the city, at a local beauty pagent this past weekend. The pagent was for ages 6 months and up. There were no six months babies there. I am sure there was an "up" age, but I missed it. I am NOT a pagent girl, so this was something different for me. Please no harsh words from those that do appreciate a good pagent, simply put, it just isn't my thing. I did get some good pictures of our hometown (Helena) girl, Liz Cochran, who happens to currently hold the title of Miss Alabama. She will be competing for the Miss America crown around the first of the year. Good Luck to her. She was given the key to the city at this event, by Mayor Penhale.

I was surprised to see at the pagent, blogger Laura Beth and her daughter "Bean". Bean competed in her age group. Congratulations to Bean who walked away with the "Queen" crown in her age group!!

Please vote for ELizabeth on this website-

www.greentwithtamara.com/pg_contest.php
She is currently in 4th place- send out the link to everyone you know to try to get them to vote and get others vote, we can't let Washington, Penn. and Wisc. beat us!!!!

Vallejo

2009-10-26T15:01:00.001-07:00

Isn't it fun when old friends get together? Such was the case not long ago when I called up my friend Charnita and asked her if she was ready for a spur of the moment trip to take in a great band. Luckily, Charnita works like I do, she can appreciate a good spontaneous whim. And so it was, we loaded up in the car with camera in hand to take in a musical performace of some (old? I dont think that's the right word) friends' in their band, Vallejo. I love the performace pics I captured...

You have probably heard Vallejo here on my blog, Tales from Bloggeritaville, and not even realized it. Their music can be played on my sidebar Playlist. Check 'em out!
The band is made up of three brothers, AJ (vocals,guitar), Alexandro (drums) and Omar Vallejo(bass, vocals), as well as my highschool chum Bruce Castleberry on rhythm guitar & vocals and Jeff Hartsough a fairly newcomer to the band on bongos.

Vallejo's sound is very unique, I would call it Latin Funk, though not sure they would agree to that genre. They can harmonize like song birds. I guess after being together for over 15 years, it is natural for them. Their website describes them as " a striking blend of modern rock grooves, potent guitar work, Latin percussion and soulful lyrics has made VALLEJO one of the most popular bands to hail from Austin, Texas. Their music immediately hooks listeners right in, taking them on a roller-coaster ride of musical beats and expressions."

Vallejo is now located out of Austin, Texas, but recently made a trip through my town with a stop at the Iron Horse Cafe. It has been about 15 years since I last rocked out to a *live* Vallejo show, though they can often be heard playing out of my minivan CD player. LOL.

The guys still had it, haven't changed a bit ever after all these years (unlike me, why is that?). If anything, their voices have aged like fine wine,only getting better. They have an extensive road schedule, check it out, for I am quite certain that they will soon be playing a show near you! And if they aren't check out their website for all their music CD's and video's, so you can "VALLEJO" too.

The Goley Wedding

2009-10-14T21:39:00.000-07:00

The Wedding of Jean and Dusty Goley (read about it on Tales from Bloggeritaville)
Slideshows that include all of the photographs seen on Tales from Bloggeritaville, plus more ( The ceremony, the Guest, the reception, the food-300 in all) can be purchased.
CD's and include all of the photographs from the day. If you would like to purchase individual pictures, please email me with photo # (located under photograph) and size and I will send you a price list.
CD's cannot be duplicated.

Jammin' at the Junction 2009

2009-10-14T19:46:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of serving as a committee member of the first annual Jammin at the Junction. Jammin at the Junction was the brainchild of singer Bo Bice, to continue the charity work of our mutual friend, Larry Childers. All monies raised went to charities that were important to Larry. For more information on Jammin at the Junction, visit the website, http://www.jamminatthejunction.org/ You can also read more in detail (and my personal experience) about the event at my other blog, Tales from Bloggeritaville.
If you are intersted in purchasing a photograph from the Jammin at the Junction slideshow, email me with the photograph # (located under each photo) and the size you would like to purchase.

Right now I am running a special, you can purchase all the the photos from the Jammin at the Junction event on a CD. You can email me (profile) for price and shipping instructions.

If you live locally, you may pick the photos/CD up, making S&H unnecessary. If you would prefer to have photographs shipped, let me know and I can give you a price that would include S&H.
Checks should be made out in my name.
Thank you for taking a look! I hope to see you at next years' Jammin at the Junction-October 30th, 2010!

SCGOP

2009-07-20T13:44:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I had the honor of being the photographer of the evening for the Greater Shelby County Republican Party Fundraiser. Alabama Congressman Spencer Bachus was the "Man of the evening" that everyone wanted to been photographed with. I found Congressman to be both quite in addition to being surprisingly quite humorous. He was a very kind individual who made the evening go by smoothly with his soft spoken and interesting commentary.
Thank you, Congressman Bachus, for being so gracious with your time and smiles.

The photo above is of Congressman Bachus pictured with some sweet acquaintances of mine, State Representative Cam Ward and his lovely wife, Julie. Cam is currently running for the position of State Senator. I cannot think of a more better qualified person for the job.I stand behind his nomination 100%.

I had great help that evening in my sweet friend, Laura Beth Joseph, who helped the photography line to run smoothly and announce guest to the Congressman (for he and I both are literally hard of hearing). I also want to extend sincere gratitude to my friend Jessica, for hiring me for the job! I am most appreciative of the opportunity. It was a delightful evening.

Jessica is pictured below with her aunt, Alabama State Treasurer Kay Ivey who is currently running for Governor of the State of Alabama. She too, is another well informed candidate who will serve the people of Alabama well if nominated for Governor of our great state.

A wonderful evening full of smiles, what more can a photographer ask for?

Corbin Family

2009-06-29T07:44:00.000-07:00

I recently had a great honor, a friend of mine from high school, Stacie, drove over from Georgia to have me to photograph her three amazing children.

We had a great shoot! It was such fun getting to know her children and their very distinct but complimentary personalities.

Her daughter Brenleigh is the oldest, and she is so good to her little brothers. She was so loving, compassionate and yet would advise them at the same time.

Brock was a ham. He makes it his job to see that people are laughing and smiling. I got many a silly face from Brock. Delightful!

Bryant is the sweetest little boy. Good natured and loves his momma. You can just see how big his heart is through his eyes. And manners, the most impeccable manners. A true southern gentleman.

The kids had a great time playing in the creek in town.
I love these type shots of the children, enjoying themselves. Just being kids. Nothing is contrived, so natural .

It was an honor to photograph the Corbin family.

Friends, forever!

Harris Family

2009-06-04T20:35:00.000-07:00

Word of mouth is my main form of advertising. I don't have a big budget for advertising so I am always delighted when I receive a new client, who have been referred. It's flattery at it's finest. This was the case when The Harris family asked if I would photograph their children. I had never photographed this family before.

One never knows what the outcome of a portrait will be when you are dealing with children. Let's be honest...kids are just that...honest. If they don't feel like posing, you cannot make them. The Harris children , however, came with good genes and good attitudes on their side. Little Andrew made it his mission to try and make me laugh and smile, doing his best silly faces and jokes.

And his sister, she could not be any more beautiful. Her little feminine features, so dainty and delicate.

She was like a little pixie fairy! All she is missing are wings!

It was my pleasure to photograph the Harris children and my hope to have future sessions with them.

Hoover Prom

2009-05-13T20:16:00.000-07:00

Prom. It's a highlight in the life of many a teenager. To dress up in the finest duds and have the night to enjoy, it's what young girls dream about. At least I did.

I recently shot prom portraits for some individuals who commissioned me for their special evening. Below some of my favorite shots.

Sister Sledge

2009-03-21T11:09:00.000-07:00

We recently returned from a family vacation beachside. I had some very specific ideas for some portraist that I wanted to take of Sister Slegde while there. It was a celebratory moment, as she turned eleven years old. I wanted the shots to appear "dreamy, mystical almost". That was my premise for the Grand Oak tree shots. The tree in the shots is hundreds of years old. It is on some property that is currently for sale. I hope that it is not cut down for developement, that would be a great diservice.

Aside from a few bugs, the shoot went great. It was nothing that Sister Sledge couldn't shake off.
You can click on any of the photos for a larger view.
The first two, I couldn't decide which look I prefered, so I included them both.

Of course, I couldn't go to the beach without more traditional beach shots (though I try not to be cookie cutter, unless someone wants a specific shot). I used all of the great scenery to my advantage.

This next shot was one in which Sister Sledge was not ready, but I love shots that are not posed. In fact, I didn't tell her to do much of anything, to just have fun and be natural. She is quite the pro, knowing what to do...and what shots I am after.

The final shots are using my brand new prop, a gift from my friend Mama Joy & the Boss for photographing the Boss' wedding.I love it. It has a fun and playful quality. Thanks!

I will be making several beach trips from now until October. And even one during the holiday season (December 11-18th) .If you are interested in booking a photography shoot, let me know.

Going to the Chapel.....

2009-03-01T19:59:00.000-08:00

Typically, I do not photograph weddings. I have found it to be more trouble than it is worth, and I prefer not to get into the legalities of wedding photography. But for my dear friend, Kym's (a.k.a."The Boss'") wedding, when she asked if would photograph her wedding, I told her not only would I do it, I would do it for free, as my gift to my dear friends. I took tons of pictures that I have condensed down to close to three hundred to document the evening. Of course, I won't post all those here, but I do want to give you a sampling of the special night.
The wedding was at 7:30 in the evening, it came during a torrential downpour, amidst tornado watches and thunderstorm warnings. But, you know what they say....rain on a wedding day is a sign of luck. It seems that my friends, Kym and Rick, are destined for a lifetime of happiness. To Kym and Rick.....

The Bride:

The Groom:

The Happy Couple:

The bridesmaids: Kym & Rick's daughters:

The groomsmen: Kym & Rick's sons:

Family Portraits:

The Brides Family:

Extras:

The shoes

Free Drinks

The bridal topper

A cute little story to end with: All of the wedding guest had departed the reception (held at a local restaurant) except for a small group,"the Clematis Club", Kym's closest circle of girlfriends. Kym and Rick had piled their "get away" car full of gifts. (I say "get away" but there were no plans to leave early and have rice thrown.) When it was time to leave, they both realized that there was no room for the bride in the car. Fortunately, their next door neighbors were still there...Audrey ("Terminator") and Kyle were happy to give Kym a ride homewith husband Rick following in close pursuit. So, the picture of the couple leaving is this one....

Audrey, Kyle and Kym. There is nothing like good friends. Especially when they are neighbors.

Kym & Rick, I wish you a lifetime of happiness. I love you both.

Prince of Peace Boot Scoot Boogie

2009-03-01T19:57:00.000-08:00

I recently had the pleasure of being the hired photographer for the Price of Peace Fundraiser, "Boot Scoot Boogie". Photos from the evening are available on-line at the following address: http://www.smugmug.com/gallery/7435731_39oHW/1/479745038_YvKSD#479745038_YvKSD .

Claridy Family

2009-02-23T05:13:00.000-08:00

A recent winter day spent by the waters of Buck Creek. This was the location for the Claridy (extended)Family portraits.

Kelsey

2009-01-01T17:55:00.000-08:00

Kelsey. She is one of those people who I love to photograph. The camera loves her. Her personality just shines through her photos. Kelsey and her parents, Michaela and Ray and all very special clients of mine. They are "regulars' but more than that, they have become friends. Funny how life works like that.

I was asked to photograph Kelsey for some competitions that she will be entering very soon. I was honored, as I am with each time someone entrust me to photograph them, but even more so, because I had the "job" of capturing Kelsey as the person that she is. Beautiful, assured of herself, strong, and full of life. Good Luck, Kelsey!

Kelsey. In pictures. Look out world.

The Slideshow of just a few of the portraits from our session on New Years Eve:

Breakfast with Santa 2008

2008-12-10T05:19:00.000-08:00

The magic of Christmas. It is found in the warm smile of 'Ol St Nick.

In "the list" that each child can't wait to tell to Santa....

It is what tales are made of....

It is in the faces of the young...

And the old"er"...

But you have to Believe!

Merry Christmas, Everyone!

(Breakfast with Santa 2008)

Arther Family

2008-12-01T12:29:00.000-08:00

Family. It's what is important above everything else. And this is a "branch" of my family. My cousin, Michael and his lovely wife Christy and their son, "C". I am always humbled when someone ask me to photograph them....especially another photographer, which Christy is. Thanks for allowing me to capture the Arther family.

Carlton Family

2008-11-16T20:57:00.000-08:00

I enjoyed having the opportunity to photograph the Carlton family this past weekend. The Carlton's reminded me that I had photographed their daughter at a cheer competition at the BJCC three years prior. That was a fun day, but I was happy to be able to photograph this sweet family in a more natural setting.

Hembree

2008-11-11T12:36:00.000-08:00

My friend, Deborah with her friend John. I love this setting, very rustic and natural. Timeless. I asked John and Deborah to sit for a moment while I adjusted my camera. It wasn't true. But sometimes it is the best way to get candid photos...and it's a trick that works for both children and adults alike (especially men, who sometimes feel uncomfortable "posing"). It was then that there was a joke shared between the two that brought the laughter.....and the perfect portrait.

The Adams Family, Extended

2008-10-26T19:47:00.000-07:00

The Adams Family, I feel as though I have earned my place among this family. I have photographed this family numerous occasions from family portraits to a special beach session to athletic competitions and baby showers, they are special clients to me.

For this scheduled portrait session, it was my opportunity to get acquainted with the newest Adam's family member, Little Addison Leigh....

I could just eat her up with a spoon she is so precious. And what spunk! This little girl will go places in the world, I tell you.

And if she needs a little guidance at how to rule the world around her, she can always count on Little Aunt Kayleigh....

It wouldn't be an understatement to say that the camera loves her.

Kayleigh knows exactly how to work a camera. I didn't have to give her much guidance on how to pose, she knows exactly "how to work it". And she does!

I believe the photogenic gene runs rampant in this family. Here are Kayleigh's older sisters:

Whitney

And Jennifer (Addison's mother)

I love to praise these two on their pouty non smiling pose. They have it down to a perfection!

I think this portrait of Glenn on the railroad tracks looks sharp.

And finally, Tammy and Guy....

Soulmates.

Thank you, Adams Family, for inviting me to capture these moments in time for you. I look forward to many more!

Carson Family

2008-10-25T21:56:00.000-07:00

I love all my photography clients. I have been very fortunate in my experiences with photographing families to have a great list of clients who are easy to work with. The Carson's, however, are a stand out, they are one of those families who are all just natural beauties-inside and out.

They photograph beautifully and their love for one another is evident in the portraits.

They do not come with any reservations of how things might not "feel right". They do what I ask, never doubting. They trust in me.

.....and even bring their own great ideas to the table. Mark is a big Beatles fan and had the idea to recreate the Abbey Road album cover. We timed it right, with a train going through town, thereby reducing traffic flow for our shot.

And they indulged me with my ideas too....

I love this portrait of Shelli standing in this green doorway. I think she can give Victoria Beckam a run for her money anyday. Shelli is as tiny as a second and as sweet as pie.

And Mark, is another, who like his wife missed a great career as a model.

Or a country music singer, you know the one.

It is no wonder that their children are equally as gorgeous.
Paige is not only a natural beauty, she is the sweetest teenager you would ever want to meet. Impeccable manners, her outer and inner beauty transcend the photograph.

And brother Kyle, is a ham. His cute and playful personality brings much laughter to a shoot to make it fun!

Thank you, Carson Family, for entrusting me to take your family photographs and for another wonderful shoot!

Gillispie Family 2008

2008-07-21T14:58:00.000-07:00

It was a pleasure to photograph the Gillispie family this past weekend. I had photographed this sweet family a few years ago, when their daughter was a infant and their son, much younger. They are beautiful family, devoted to one another. I think that comes through in their portraits.

Sisters

2008-07-02T11:42:00.000-07:00

Birth. It's an exciting time for anyone, whether you are a new sister....or an aunt again like me. Here, my neices are beyond happy at the thought of having a new baby sister in the household.
To be a big sister, is a big thing, especially in the eyes of a 6 & 4 year old.

Brand new baby Mae joins big sisters, Sara Jackson and Reese in these portraits.

True Love.

"M" Family

2008-03-14T13:52:00.000-07:00

Adams Family Beach Shoot

2008-02-05T16:22:00.000-08:00

I was honored to be able to photograph the youngest member of the Adam's family for a beach portrait sitting in Orange Beach, Alabama. I was pleased with the results. I think she looks like an angel.

Sandlin Family

2008-02-05T14:56:00.000-08:00

The expected arrival of a first born child. It is an emotion that cannot be explained, it has to be felt. It was a warm spring day, when we shot these portraits. And nature was also very much a process of birth and rebirth as flowers were blooming, the creek was full and flowing and love in the air. It was almost as if nature were the simile of the shoot. I asked that Audrey and Kyle "just be".....and you can see by the portraits their joy at what the future holds.

Wilbanks Family

2008-02-05T05:27:00.000-08:00

The Rutledge Family

2008-02-04T20:45:00.000-08:00

Young Family

2008-02-04T20:40:00.000-08:00

They share more than a mother-daughter bond that is one built on respect, nurturing, love and friendship. I think that their love for one another is evident in these portraits.

Prom 2006

2008-02-04T20:22:00.000-08:00

Prom 2007

2008-02-04T20:03:00.000-08:00

Keyes Family

2008-02-04T19:58:00.000-08:00

Jordan Family 2

2008-02-04T19:52:00.000-08:00

Heacock Family Fall

2008-02-04T19:47:00.000-08:00

Haynie Beach Portraits

2008-02-04T19:41:00.000-08:00

Haynie Family Fall

2008-02-04T19:32:00.000-08:00

Haynie Family Spring

2008-02-04T19:22:00.000-08:00

Dassau Family

2008-02-04T19:19:00.001-08:00

Dassau Family & Friends

2008-02-04T19:11:00.000-08:00

P/L Cunningham Family

2008-02-04T19:05:00.000-08:00

Castle Family

2008-02-04T19:00:00.000-08:00

Family Circus

2008-02-04T18:58:00.000-08:00

The Carson Family

2008-02-04T18:43:00.000-08:00

Jordan Family Fall

2008-02-04T18:33:00.000-08:00

Banger-Walls

2008-02-04T17:27:00.000-08:00

This portrait sitting was for a newly engaged couple. Both gifted musicians, I wanted to capture the music (somehow through my lens) that brought them together.

Aparcico Family Fall

2008-02-04T17:13:00.001-08:00

Aparcico Family

2008-02-04T17:05:00.000-08:00

Aday Family Photo

2008-02-04T16:53:00.000-08:00

Expecting

2008-02-04T16:39:00.000-08:00

This photo shoot was a celebration, as Jennifer was expecting the birth of her first child, to be a girl. A gathering of the Adam's Family Women, of several generations, in anticipation of the arrival.

Adams Family Christmas Portraits

2008-02-04T16:32:00.000-08:00

This sitting was for the Adam's family Christmas card.