Sunday, August 30, 2009

My little Sis is all grown up!

I remember when she was 2 years old and quite the little terror, and now to see the young woman she has become makes my heart happy. I'm so proud of her! She works very hard, putting in more hours than most kids her age. Even though it was a super hot and humid day, and her hair was "poofing out" she wasn't letting that stop her from getting her pictures done. Her determination is outstanding!

We had so much fun starting with a little beauty session of make-up and hair. Then we headed to the Baumgartner House in Fraser. They have this awesome garden behind this big red barn, complete with a little bridge! Its really a fantastic place for portrait sessions. After a quick stop back at the house for an outfit change we headed up to Memorial Park in St. Clair Shores. She was even down with hitting my secret field. Well I guess it's not a secret since it's right off of a major road at the exit ramp of I-94 where we were there for all to see! But we get such fun images from there! Lesley and I stopped there for my session too! Hey, I know it's no field like you're used to Lesley, but it works! :-)

Here's my grown up little sister Dawn. So beautiful...
























Love you girlie!

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Lisa & Eric are married!

Last Saturday I had the honor of photographing Lisa & Eric's wedding. If you remember from their e-session, they were referred to me by a long time friend, and then I realized that they were part of Scott's extended family. Well let me tell you, I was more nervous for this wedding than I have ever been in a long time. There was something about having so much family in attendance that put my stomach into knots. But the day went perfectly and everything was beautiful! What an amazing evening of family, friends and of course, love!









The beautiful bride...




I love this shot I caught of Lisa with her Mom


The handsome groom...


Eric's mom was one proud lady. Not only did she escort her son down the aisle, but she also officiated the ceremony!


Eric seeing Lisa for the first time...




I love the way Lisa and Eric personalized the ceremony by adding their own vows. Amazing amounts of love!


The first kiss!


Love this image or Eric! Can't you feel his happiness?




Lisa & Eric, thank you so much for having me capture your wedding day! I had an amazing time, and I wish you all of the love and happiness imaginable! Have a GREAT honeymoon!

Sunday, August 23, 2009

Another Year Older

Happy Birthday to me! Today is my 33rd birthday! That's right folks, I'm a big girl now.

Every birthday I take some time reflect on the past year. So much has happened and changed my life this year, I never would have dreamed it possible. To think of where I was last year... I had recently lost my job and interviewing for various Logistics companies. I was so grateful of all of the opportunities that had been passed on from my previous co-workers. But my heart just wasn't in to it. Everything entailed a longer commute than I had already been making. After nearly 5 years of driving 60 miles a day in Detroit rush hour traffic I couldn't stomach the thought of adding any additional drive time.

I remember the day I shared the idea of starting my own photography business with Scott. I was nervous to even mention it after my previous failed business attempt at becoming a Creative Memories superstar. (Turns out, direct selling isn't really for me). After several long discussions and many sleepless nights, we decided that I should do it.

It was around that time that I met Kevin Murawski. Kevin was photographing some very dear and long time friend's wedding that Scott and I both were both standing up in. Scott had warned Kevin that I would be following him and asking him tons of questions. Well for some strange reason, I decided to leave my camera in the bag that day. It was totally uncharacteristic of me and no one could believe it. But that I day I really wanted to just enjoy the day with so many friends. Scott kept telling me to talk with Kevin and give him my business card. I was a nervous wreck about it and finally near the end of the night I think Scott actually pushed me away and forced me to approach Kevin. I finally gave in thinking "What's the worst thing that could happen? He'll think I suck and I won't hear from him again?"

So imagine my surprise when I actually heard back from Kevin! I was giddy and doing the happy dance all around the house when he offered me the opportunity to 2nd shoot with him. I showed up for my first wedding with Kevin nearly jumping out of my skin. I was that nervous. I know weddings inside and out having been a part of so many weddings, but this was different. I had no idea what he was going to be expecting from me. Kevin showed me the ropes of a wedding from a photographers point of view and taught me so much. And he continued to let me shoot with him! I jumped at every opportunity to attend weddings and learn from him.

Well here I am, with 10 weddings under my belt and 6 more still on my calendar this year! I'm so grateful for everything all that this past year has brought. Grateful to my husband for all of his love and support, grateful to my family and friends that have encouraged me throughout this journey, and grateful to Kevin for all that he has taught me. Definitely a very happy birthday today!

Here's to no more road rage!

*****
On a sidenote, as a photographer I feel it's very important to get in front of the lens once in a while. It helps to remind me how my clients feel when I pointing my camera at them. I can relate to how uncomfortable and nervous it can be. It puts me in check so to speak. So in honor of my birthday, and the upcoming website refreshening, I asked my my bff Lesley to give me my own session! Here's me, at 33!

Friday, August 21, 2009

The Packard Plant

I've always been taken by the history that is in Detroit. I love all beauty in the old architecture. The other day I had the opportunity to visit the Packard Plant with a couple other photographers. I had such a good time and am even a member of a local camera club now! Totally stoked for my first meeting next week!


It's been a long time since I've gone out shooting for myself. Believe me when I tell you how much I L-O-V-E my clients, but you can really learn a lot of getting out of your element and shooting something different. Keith and Tony I had a wonderful time! I'm looking forward to the next time!

When we first got there, I really just took it all in. I have to say it was a little freaky being in an abandoned building, but once the jitters settled down I was able to just play! Here's some of my favorite images from the day...


I loved the way the morning sun was coming in through what was left of the windows!


Wouldn't this be a great backdrop for an engagement session? Can't you picture people in this one? Can anyone tell me where I can find a wall like this that's not in an abandoned building?


I think this may be the only door left attached in the entire building!


Love this one!


And the moodiness in this one...








Another fav from the shoot!



Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Angela & Jeff are married!

Angela and Jeff were married last Saturday at their beautiful home in Wixom. They had a gorgeous, although hot day! Oh and the humidity... But it was perfect! Except for my shoes. I do not own a pair of "flats". Being a vertically challenged I always wear some sort of heel, even if it's a small one, to give me a few more inches. Knowing the celebration was going to be held in their back yard, I stopped on my way to see if I couldn't find some flats. My senseless side took over and when I saw these super cute black wedges I thought perfect! Flat and a little height. Hmmm, not so much. Needless to say, I ended back in my little heels and went with it! Yeah, I didn't even fall once!

But back to Jeff and Angela... They wanted a small intimate wedding, and their backyard was the perfect setting. Surrounded by the woods, their gardens and their closest loved ones Angela and Jeff said "I do". Everything was planned beautifully and their attention to detail was flawless! I loved the colors they chose, so very soft and inviting.

Getting Ready....








I love the emotion in the next couple of images!








I love this shot I grabbed of Angela's daughters!


Jeff looking so dapper!


And Angela was just stunning!










Jeff's toast was straight from the heart and amazing. Of course I teared up a bit too!








Jeff and Angela are off on a 10 day honeymoon! They rented an RV and are traveling Michigan, one of my favorite things to do! I hope you have an amazing honeymoon! Thank you so much for letting me be a part of your day!

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