Missie Jurick Photography

Operation:Love Reunited Policy Updates {OpLove}

2012-02-10T18:14:00.000-05:00

As many of you are aware, for the past three years I have been honored to be a part of Operation:Love Reunited {OpLove}. OpLove is a nation-wide network of professional photographers who offer free sessions and albums to deployed soldiers and their immediate family members. Recently OpLove has updated the guidelines, and I feel it is important to share these new policies and regulations with you.

My personal policy for OpLove session availability per month is still in effect. Beginning in April my space for these free sessions will be limited to ONE family per month. I am currently booked for OpLove sessions until May. As a reminder for those families wishing to capture those special moments together before facing their next deployment, I do offer all Active Duty Military and their spouses a special session rate, and I do have session availabilities for each month.

The following is from the e-mail I received this morning. If you are interested in taking advantage of Operation:Love Reunited please read these guidelines carefully to be sure you qualify. You can also go to www.oplove.org . Please don't hesitate to contact either OpLove or myself if you have any questions.

"1) We have re-defined areas to be covered as deployments. These new guidelines were hopefully posted in your area’s FB page. Either deployment orders or a letter of deployment from the command is REQUIRED! Here are the areas covered:
Combat zones are designated by an Executive Order from the President as areas in which the U.S. Armed Forces are engaging or have engaged in combat. There are currently three such combat zones (including the airspace above each):
a) Arabian Peninsula Areas - the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, the part of the Arabian Sea north of 10° North latitude and west of 68° East longitude, the Gulf of Aden, and the countries of Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
b) Kosovo area - Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (Serbia and Montenegro), Albania, the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea north of the 39th Parallel.
c) Afghanistan
d) In addition, we will also allow three parts of the former Yugoslavia to be treated as if it were a combat zone and therefore covered: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and Macedonia...."

The "G" Family {Fayetteville Family Photography}

2012-02-10T17:49:00.000-05:00

Sweet Mr "A" stole my heart this summer when I had the opportunity to photograph he & his Mommy for an OpLove session. I remember opening the door to the car to help get him out; he turned, wrinkled up his itty bitty forehead, and gave me hands-down the most adorable pouty face I have ever seen. To this day I don't know what it was about that pout, but I've never seen a cuter one....it just melted my heart...

In fact, a couple months later I actually met up with A and his Mom for dinner, and even after he peed on me I still couldn't help but this "oh this is just the cutest little guy ever!" {Let me clarify...not because he peed on me, but because the "power" of his little pout just still hadn't worn off! hehe}

Well it goes without saying that I could not have been more excited to get to see him again. He is now the Big "1"... and even better, his Daddy is home safe & sound from Iraq! Woo-hoo!

We met up last Friday for a family session, and got to enjoy some of this year's mild winter weather. {thank goodness, because I am a WIMP in the cold} We hit downtown Fayetteville before heading over to Arsenal Park, where we got to capture some great shots of the family playing together under a tree. Love those! Which brings me to a reminder....

...I love sharing peeks into each session here on my blog and featuring sessions on my website, however I completely respect each of my clients' wishes and privacy and will never post anything they are not comfortable with. If a family lets me know that they are not comfortable with their full names and/or images being shared on the internet than I completely respect that. For this family, Dad requested for me to please not use names, and to not use any images where he is shown. That is his right, and I completely respect it...

'till later! XOXO Missie

OpLove {Homecoming}

2012-01-15T11:10:00.000-05:00

Friday evening brought more families back together again!

This sweet little 4 month-old was such a little trooper waiting for his Daddy to come home from Afghanistan. He played, got a little nap in, and simply just looked adorable in his little Army outfit. How cute is this onsie with the little boots? I love it!

As always with homecomings, I loved seeing all the faces light up with big smiles when they get that first glance of their Soldier in formation! {Below: middle row, far right}

A huge "Welcome Home" and even bigger "Thank you!" to all the Soldiers who came home this Friday. To this family especially, I am glad I was able to be there for you to capture this wonderful day.

OpLove Disclaimer:

"The photos and other content of this publication do not constitute or imply any endorsement or recommendation by the Department of Defense."

For the Birds....{lazy day project}

2012-01-08T17:26:00.000-05:00

One of my New Years Resolutions is to stop, breathe, & truly relax with my hubby on Sundays. No checking e-mail, no editing photos, no placing client orders...basically, undo the 24-7 work habit I got into while my hubby was deployed. {how'd I do today? I made it until 3 PM before I checked e-mails and wrote back; I give myself points for trying.}

Another goal is to take a short break every week and do some sort of little project just for the sheer enjoyment of doing something. I have tons of magazine pages torn out & websites flagged with simple little ideas, and it's about time I started doing them!

Today I got started on both; we slept in, then enjoyed some yummy omelets together while watching a show a recorded. Then it was outside we went to enjoy the warm weather while it's here....a nice long walk with our crazy dog, followed by chasing her after our playtime in the park turned into her getting "adventurous." This afternoon, while my hubby relaxed with some NFL games I checked off my first little project - hanging birdseed-covered pine cones on a tree out back; partially to help out the birds, but I'll admit I also hope our cat enjoys watching his feathered friends while he sunbathes on our screened- in porch.

Need a little rainy day project? Gather some pine cones on your next walk and let them dry out. Attach some cording (strong enough to hold up to the elements), slather on some cheapy peanut butter (bonus points if you use a Tigger cheese knife), and then sprinkle on some bird seed. Hang them at varying levels from a tree...keeping in mind to hang them far enough out of reach from predators so that the birds can feast without fear :-)

Homecoming

2012-01-01T20:45:00.000-05:00

The past two weeks have been so wonderful getting to celebrate Christmas with my Hubby home safe & sound. I am incredibly blessed that my soldier has returned from Iraq 3 times now, without so much as a scratch. I will never stop thanking my lucky stars for that, nor will I ever forget the sacrifices so many others have made...

As part of OpLove I have had the honor of photographing other families together; this time I got to turn the lens on my own family. And I am incredibly grateful that they had their cameras as well so that when the time came I could drop my camera and run to my Soldier...those hugs & kisses were much needed in deed!

Above is the plane carrying my soldier coming in for the landing. As soon as those wheels touched the ground the crowd broke out into a huge cheer. Moments like that you will never forget....the breath you've been holding for the entire deployment just finally lets go, and for the first time you can allow yourself to believe your Soldier is really there...and that you'll soon be reunited.

Below is one of my favorite captures from the homecoming....after I got my hugs & kisses in I was able to grab my camera in time to catch my Soldier getting a welcome home hug from his Uncle, who happens to be a retired Army Veteran himself. Knowing the bond that they share is more than just one of a typical Uncle & Nephew makes this photo priceless to me. It is one I will always cherish.

Below are the moments after the plane landed, when we all stood patiently as the Soldiers exited the plane and got into formation. The Patriot Guard was there to line the walk they would pass through as they entered the hangar for the ceremony.

Families arrived about an hour or so before the plane landed, and we were all glad to see that Santa himself was there to make sure our special deliveries arrived on time. I think the kiddos especially loved the little treats he handed out...helped make the time tick by a little quicker before all the Mommys and Daddys finally arrived! Below that is my Mom & Dad with the welcome home signs they each made for my hubby. My Dad wanted to make a sign that he knew would stick out in the crowd; one Mike would see and know for sure it was meant just for him....so as only a true Mountaineer fan would want to see, Mike was greeted with the traditional WVU anti-Pitt slogan. Priceless.

These memories below were all captured by our awesome cousin, Melody, who was part of the crowd there to honor Mike. This is the first homecoming where we've lived close enough to family that some of them were able to get here on such last-minute notice to help celebrate the homecoming. It meant the world to us to get to share that moment ... and I'm so thankful for having these memories to share with our friends and family.

It goes without saying that hopefully we will never have to face another deployment again, but knowing that we have such amazing friends & family to help us through those long months apart makes is bearable. We are truly blessed....

To all the Men & Women who are serving our Country - Thank You for all you do, and I wish all of you Safe & Joyous Homecomings. XOXO

Baking with Busia {Holiday Traditions}

2012-01-01T19:22:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite traditions from childhood was spending a day in the kitchen making homemade Pierogi with my Dad. We always kicked off the Holiday Season by destroying the kitchen and getting in trouble with my Mom for the amount of flour we'd inevitably get everywhere. This was always done the day after Thanksgiving, and we'd top the day off with me begging to get out all the Christmas decorations and have them all up that night ... I was never one for patience....

This year was the first time in several that I was able to make Pierogi with my Mom & Dad; we made them here in NC the day before my surgery...and yes, soon after I was begging for help to get all of my decorations out. 32 years and nothing changes...I don't know how my parents put up with me.

But as special as it was for me to once again share that tradition with my family, I was even more excited to be able to be in NJ visiting my parents at the same time my brother and his family were there. Not only did I get to soak up some much needed snuggle-time with my two adorable nieces, but I got to capture my oldest niece's first time baking Pierogi with her Busia! (that's our word for Grandma) These are the moments you remember about childhood, but often don't have photographs of; I hope someday years from now J will find these memories in an album and just get a huge smile on her face...

Pajamas, new toys, and snuggles from your Busia & PopPop....perfect childhood mornings! That's miss J playing with PopPop, and below is the First Birthday gal, miss C, getting some snuggles from her Busia.

My parents have this carousel that plays Christmas music, and since she was a baby miss J has always been enthralled with it. I am so glad I happened to have my camera nearby to catch her once again watching the animals go 'round and 'round...this is one of those memories that I know my Mom & Dad will always cherish of her. Whenever she comes to visit them, she goes straight to the carousel....they can't put it away after the Holidays anymore or they'll be in trouble!

The Brady Family

2011-11-08T17:53:00.000-05:00

I just simply adored photographing this family!

I haven't done a "family feet" portrait in a while...and I think these are always cute to put on the back side of a Holiday card or back cover of an album. Simple and fun

This is the second time in a couple of weeks a family has chosen lavendars & greys for their wardrobe, and I just love the combination. It's so soft & pleasing, flatters skin tones, and photographs beautifully. Thanks to my awesome families I now know what color palette I'll be going with for my own family portraits.

The Lynch Family

2011-11-07T19:52:00.001-05:00

Saturday was such a treat - gorgeous crisp fall weather, the trees at peak color, and two fantastic sessions to enjoy...

The morning began with the fantastic Lynch family, who are honestly just plain cool. Getting to hang out with them at their home felt kinda like when you're in middle school & get invited to your first party that boys will be at...I really was hoping I wouldn't snort when I laughed, or say anything silly. (I'm pretty sure I didn't snort...) We used their gorgeous home and backyard as the backdrop for the session...and I absolutly love that they were just as relaxed in tuxedos and a gown as they were in jeans later on in the session...

{I also loved that they had the music pumping in their home! Mark happens to be the President of Quality Sound and Video so I was spoiled getting to enjoy their system while I was there...we'll just say that my little i-Pod speaker thingy doesn't quite sound the same...}

Vinny is very entertaining...he reminds me a lot of my hubby's good friend Eliot,who was the best man at our wedding; he just exudes personality. He actually DJs, and I'm very excited to get out and photograph him in action sometime soon.

Thanks for such a fun morning, you guys! You've got a great gallery coming soon...hope you've enjoyed this little peek. It was a blast getting to know you guys & I look forward to seeing you soon!

Sweet Childhood {OpLove Photography}

2011-10-26T16:58:00.000-04:00

It was so great to get out and play in the gorgeous fall weather last night with this fun-loving family.

Both Mom & Dad proudly serve our nation in the Army, but next week Dad is headed off to Afghanistan. I hope when he sees all the smiles & laughter in his album it'll help bring part of "home" to him downrange... I have to say that little "j" is just smiling and laughing throughout all the images, obviously surrounded by tons of love and laughter. So on top of Dad having some warm memories to cherish while he's away, I hope years from now "j" will look back on these images and forever remember just how fun it was to be that little kid playing with Mom & Dad.

We started off our session downtown, but "j" quickly led us in the direction of the trains; this little spot was so fun! I hadn't wandered back to this little part for a session yet, and I think you'll be seeing more of it in future images...

I just love capturing fun childhood moments like this one above....the honest smiles, genuine laughs...{sigh}

This little series below is "j" playing "Airborne!" with his Daddy Doll. His Dad flys him around like he's jumping out of an airplane and he yells "Airborne!"...so that's what "j" was doing with his doll. So cute! {for those of you wondering what a Daddy Doll is, military kids whose parent deploys can get these little dolls for free; the face of the doll has a slot for you to put a photo of your Mom or Dad}

"D," "B" & little "j"....thank you so much for trusting this precious memories to me. I truly enjoyed getting to know you ... and a big thanks to "j" for discovering a fun new place for sessions :-)

"B" - safe travels, and come home soon!

{OpLove Disclaimer: "The photos and other content of this publication do not constitute or imply and endorsement or recommendation by the Department of Defense."}

Hanging out with the McBrayers {Linear Park}

2011-10-25T22:48:00.000-04:00

What a super sweet bunch this family is...and I love the lavendar the gals were wearing - from Emma's sweater dress to Elizabeth's boots and little collar detail, they had it so right on! And how badly do I want to go boot shopping now...lovin' all three pair!

Great job on the styling, you guys! Everyone looked so great; your clothes "flowed" and worked great together, but still showed everyone's personalities. Paired with your fantastic smiles and how cuddly you all are...it's a big thumbs up!

I had a great time getting to know you guys and can't wait for you to see your gallery! Hope you've enjoyed this little sneak peek; there's so much more to come! Thanks so much for a fantastic session!

Wink {Missie Jurick Photography}

2011-10-22T14:57:00.000-04:00

I'm so excited to have the opportunity to share with you a few portraits from last night's session. This gorgeous gal was so great to work with...and I'm incredibly grateful that she's allowing me to share some of our captures so that I can introduce you to to what I'm working on...

In addition to my Family photography, I'll soon be launching a branch of Missie Jurick Photography I'm calling "Wink." This will have a seperate website and blog, but will still be a part of my same studio ... I can't wait to design the logo and all the fun & flirty branding that will go along with it!

"Wink" will be all about celebrating the strength & confidence a woman posesses. It's about embracing our beauty...no matter our shape, size, or age...and having the ability to feel pampered and gorgeous. We all deserve that.

Beautiful "A" is surprising her soldier, who's in Afghanistan, with these gorgeous portraits. I wish I could somehow put a camera in the box to record his face when he gets this surprise...I just know he's going to flip!

"A"...thank you so much for a fantastic session. I really enjoyed getting to know you, and cannot wait for you to see the rest of your gallery. You are simply stunning...and thank you so much for allowing me to share your grace & beauty on my blog. I hope you are just loving these images!

Celebrating 50 Years {Happy Anniversary}

2011-10-04T21:11:00.000-04:00

Friday evening I took a ride out to the gorgeous Carolina Inn at the Pinehurst Golf Resort to meet up with Brenda & Chris, who were celebrating their 50th Wedding Anniversary ... with all their family!

What an incredibly special moment to have everyone together to celebrate such a beautiful milestone.

With family flying in from as far away as California, I was bummed to see dark clouds rolling in as I drove towards the resort; but there was no raining on this parade! By the time the guests of honor showed up, the skies had cleared and the sun was back out...not that it would have mattered with this group; they were such a laid back and fun crew! Reminded me of my Chicago family...always so fun to be around, and no matter how long it's been since we've been together it's like we never missed a beat...

Brenda & Chris were surprised with this family photo by their 7 children and their families. Who wouldn't cherish having a photo like that? We also took the opportunity to capture individual family portraits...goodness, what a good looking group!

{I love this group shot above of Brenda & two of her grandkids....easy to tell who they got their gorgeous eye color from; Gotta love genetics!}

Brenda & Chris, Congratulations again on 50 beautiful years together and the wonderful family you created. I'm so glad I got to meet you both and help you celebrate your day. And to the rest of the Christianson crew...thanks for being so great! Hope you all had a wonderful weekend together!

E & S {OpLove}

2011-10-02T18:37:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to this sweet couple on their engagement!

While most couples who are engaged spend a year together tasting cakes, picking out DJs, and planning their honeymoon, these two will be writing letters, sending carepackages, and having "skype dates." Photographing them reminded me of my hubby's first deployment to Iraq; we weren't married yet, either, and although it was so hard to miss him so much, thinking back I cherish those letters and e-mails more than anything. We grew and connected in such a unique way - sharing our thoughts and dreams in the letters we wrote each other I know helped make our friendship & love so strong. This is what I wish for you, E & S, as well...

{This image above is E "hugging" his two precious little girls, who are in Michigan}

May this year speed by for you both! E- come home safe. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to meet you both, and I look forward to working with you again in the future. XOXO

{OpLove disclaimer: "The photos and other content of this publication do not constitute or imply and endorsement or recommendation by the Department of Defense."

Counting the Days! {OpLove}

2011-09-30T13:42:00.000-04:00

So excited that I had the opportunity to work with this family again! We met up this summer for a family session when Dad was home...now that he's in Afghanistan, they're counting down the days, minutes, & hours until they can all be together again!

I cannot believe how much "C" has grown in just the past couple months; and I was loving that he was all smiles and giggles for these long-distance hugs & kisses being sent to Dad. Miss "J" was a great model, as usual, and really should win the award for best big sister. {and how gorgeous is Mom?!}

I know without a doubt that their Soldier is going to love having these moments to enjoy, and I certainly hope these smiles from home help the days go a bit quicker.

{OpLove disclaimer: "The photos and other content of this publication do not constitute or imply any endorsement ot recommendation by the Department of Defense."

Rain, Rain, Go Away! {OpLove Session}

2011-09-28T14:45:00.000-04:00

Mother Nature was not playing nice with me this past weekend. Friday evening I had a session scheduled, and it was so dark, dreary & pouring rain that we decided to reschedule. About an hour later, just as the session would have begun, the skies cleared and there was a gorgeous soft light downtown. Argh!!! So, on Saturday morning for this session it wasn't raining...until about 10 minutes in. Really?!! Luckily, it was more of a gentle rain and downtown offered enough locations with covering that we were able to get the session in. Whew!

These three adorable kiddos were such troopers...getting up early on a Saturday, and dealing with the rain. But they knew they were sending some special smiles and long-distance hugs to their Daddy!

This one cracks me up! We were at the end of the session, and it was starting to rain a little harder and so I was doing my best to keep them still in the spirit and smiling. In an attempt to get them giggling again I told them to scream...well, I definitely underestimated their enthusiasm! I'm pretty sure their Daddy may have been able to hear them. It was cute, though, and this is one of those captures that shows their personalities in full swing, so I have no doubt their Dad will love it. {Maybe bring back a few memories of some long-distance car rides? "Are we there yet?"} Certainly years down the road the three of them can look back at this and giggle.

Mom is a rockstar. Three little kiddos, dressed, happy, and on-time for an 8 AM session with about a 30 mins car ride? Man, she's GOOD!!!

I had a great time marching around downtown with this family, seeing who's feet could be the loudest and watching them giggle and snuggle. I know Daddy is going to cherish seeing his beautiful wife and their kiddos! I can't wait to get his album out for him to enjoy...

2011 Holiday Mini Sessions

2011-09-24T12:54:00.000-04:00

Woo-hoo! The mini sessions are back!

This year I have THREE dates available for you to choose from...but there's only FOUR slots available on each date, so only twelve lucky families are going to get to take advantage of these great little packages. I hope you'll be one of them! Call me...NOW!...to grab your slot.

760.927.0518

you can also e-mail me. Just click the "Contact Missie" link on the bottom left of my site

All session slots will be booked on a first-come,first-serve basis. If you e-mail me I will look at the date & time of your e-mail in the event of multiple requests for the same slot coming in.

Your session fee will be due in full at the time of booking to reserve your slot. For your convenience I accept Visa, Mastercard, & Discover via my secure shopping cart.

{I will direct you to this when we book your session}

If I do not receive your session fee within 24 hours, your slot will be considered "open"

I have designed three special packages for you to choose from for your mini session;

all of them offer amazing savings from my regular artistry prices. Simply choose what works best for your family...and you can certainly add on to your package with anything your heart desires from my 2011 studio product line of prints, designs, albums, & jewelry {new!}

Here they are!

Option 1: Enjoy your mini session & online gallery at this special $50 rate!

{any prints, designs, albums, & jewelry will be in addition to this session fee}

Option 2: Enjoy your mini session & online gallery PLUS select your favorite card design from my collection and you'll have a set of 25 beautiful holiday cards to share with friends and family. You'll also enjoy a $25 credit towards your choice of any one of my Framed Print or Lustre Print Collections. All this is only $150 ( a $285 value )

{you may select any additional prints, designs, albums, & jewelry to enjoy at home and give as gifts; these will be in addition to this session fee}

Option 3: Enjoy your mini session & online gallery PLUS select your favorite card design from my collection and you'll have a set of 50 beautiful holiday cards to share with friends and family. I'll also customize a 3x3 mini accordian album design for you...you'll have a set of 3 of this design. Perfect to give as gifts, and you get to keep one for yourself! You'll also enjoy a $25 credit towards your choice of any one of my Framed Print or Lustre Print Collections. All this is only $310 ( a $540 value )

{you may select any additional prints, designs, albums, & jewelry to enjoy at home and give as gifts; these will be in addition to this session fee}

So when are these awesome sessions being held? you ask

Here are some answers to some FAQs:

Where will the session be held?

All sessions will be outdoor, natural-light sessions. Your setting will be in the landscaping and comfort of my home's yard...I even have a rockin' shabby chic couch I'll have out for us to use!

I will provide directions once we're booked, but I live in the Haymount section of Fayetteville.

What if it rains? Will sessions be rescheduled?

Nope! No worries...I've got 'cha covered. literally. Your schedules are hectic, so I wouldn't put you through the hassle of having to figure all that out...in the event of inclement weather, we will move the session inside. I have studio lights, beautiful hardwood flooring, and soft subtle colors that will blend in with any family's style and attire. We'll be good to go!

Can our dog {or cat, or bird, or snake...}be a part of our session?

I love working with pets, however family sessions incorporating four-legged family members do take a bit more time since, well, pets will be pets. Because these are 20 minute sessions I ask that pets please do not join you. If you would like for your dog to be a part of your family portraits I would love to schedule a regular session for you...we'll have the time and locations perfect for your warm fuzzy.

What is the difference between a mini session and a regular session?

Mini sessions offer you to opportunity to enjoy working with me to capture those important family moments, only without all the "bells and whistles" and {bonus!} at a mini price.

My sessions are $125, and in addition to the 60-90 minute session I spend time with you in person for both a pre-session consultation and a post-session portrait & design collection consultation. A family session can include up to 2 wardrobe looks, and may not necessarily be in just one location. Well trained & friendly pets are welcome with advance planning, and your gallery will include 30 images.

With 48-hours notice we are able to reschedule a session due to illness or family emergency.

My 2011 Holiday Minis are 20-minute sessions. We use one set location, and there are no wardrobe changes. Pre-session consultations will be done over the phone at the time of booking, and you will enjoy a gallery of 10 images to select from. Sorry, no pets allowed. For these specific sessions you have three package options to choose from; all of which you can add to from my studio product line.

We are not able to reschedule mini sessions for any reason, and deposits are not refundable.

I look forward to working with you! Remember, while I have 3 dates available there's only 12 total slots! Call or e-mail me today to reserve your family's time! 760.927.0518 or e-mail.

Jessica & Ryan {Five Star Entertainment}

2011-09-23T17:57:00.000-04:00

This past Saturday I teamed up with Five Star Entertainment to photograph the wedding of Jessica & Ryan. I met Nina, Mark, & Ray from Five Star during the Extreme Makeover Home Edition build this summer; they are so much fun, and their DJ/Videography was part of The Knot's "best of weddings" for 2010. Awesome! So I was very excited when they asked me if I'd be interested in shooting some weddings for them...

Nina & I teamed up to photograph this super cute couple...you couldn't ask for a more easy-going and fun family to work with. I was so bummed, though, to learn that the owner of this gorgeous location is not going to book any weddings for 2012! Gorgeousness aside, I was VERY glad I made the last-second decision to nix the heels and opt for the ballet flats once I saw the set of stairs the wedding procession was going to be walking down....

....these steps just screamed "missie moment!" If I had been in heels, I probably would have wound up as a YouTube sensation....

{I always love the moments right before the ceremony begins, when Dad's & Daughters share a few moments together. I'll always remember that moment with my Dad; he was suprisingly nervous.}

I'm personally always drawn more towards the casual, candid moments of weddings rather than the formal elements. Obviously weddings are one of the few times we're able to enjoy having so many of the people we hold dear to our hearts together in one place; and to me it's more natural to capture those connections through less formal posing. Don't get me wrong, I love and admire a lot of wedding photographers that follow a more traditional and formal element in their work, but my style is definitely a reflection of my personality and how close I am with my family. I try to capture the types of moments that are similar to the ones dearest in my heart. Jessica, Ryna, and their families definitely had a TON of super cute moments. I'd love to be at a Thanksgiving table with all of them - certainly lots of laughs and nothing but warm fuzzy feelings. These next couple of captures prove it:

{Ryan with his Sisters}

{LOVE these laughs! And so wish I could remember what Nina & I said to cause 'em. Whatever it was certainly worked....}

{Jessica & her parents}

OK, so this shot of the flowers doubles as my "Awkward & Awesome" post for the week...this beautiful piano was in this itty-bitty, teeny-tiny corner with all this gorgeous natural light, so obviously I HAD to use it. However, I'm sure it was pretty entertaining watching me trying to squeeze between the wall, window, piano edge, and stereo equipment to get to the keys. And heaven help the person who was outside the window that may have looked up at the wrong time to see my rear end squished against the window and I wedged myself in for the shot. Sorry! hehe

Jessica & Ryan - Congratulations!

& Nine & Crew at Five Star - I really enjoyed working with you and look forward to the next event!

One last share....this is the groom's sister with her new little one. She didn't know I took this...how beautiful is this moment?!!

Awkward & Awesome Thursdays

2011-09-15T19:29:00.001-04:00

Hello, Hello!

Whew! I am so glad this week is just about over; last week I had a lot of great sessions and everything was rolling along and then POW! Sick. Blehck! These past few days I have been wiped out...not fun, and definitely not good for productivity! But thankfully I think by tomorrow afternoon I should be all caught up - which is good because Saturday I'm shooting a wedding, and then Monday & Tuesday I'll be having a blast at a 2-day Budiour Photography workshop with the fantastic Kay Eskridge! Woo-hooo! {I met Kay at the Chicks Who Click Conference and just love her to pieces....getting to spend another two days with her is going to be so fun!! and I can't wait to finally launch my Budiour line!}

So with being sick all week I was a little panicky about what I was going to share with you this week for my Awkward & Awesome post; afterall I pretty much slept and downed NyQuil...at least that prevented me from any shopping cart disasters or tucking my skirt into my underwear in public...but I'm meandering around the point, sorry. The point is, I got home from UNC today and my dilemma was solved! There in the pile of mail, all the way from Iraq, were two letters from my hubby that provided me the perfect answers to both my awkward & awesome for this week. So, Thanks awesome hubby of mine for your perfect timing and hilarious letters....you really are always here when I need ya!

Without further ado....

The Awkward:

This is a "throw back" awkward from May, but I don't know HOW I forgot to tell you!!!.....my hubby's letter (as shown below) reminded me of this completely awkward moment:

         The scene: St. Croix, a gorgeous tropical day. My hubby & I are fresh off the beach and wandering around some shops in search of "Cheney" - a type of jewelry the island is known for. It's basically pieces of old Dutch pottery that has washed ashore, so counterfeit pieces are everywhere.

        We came across this beautiful, obviously very high-end store with gorgeous pearls and other beautiful pieces of jewelry. Everything was very much out of our price range, but those are always the fun stores to go into so we did. {I cannot stress enough for the sake of this story how classy and high-end this store was}

        The gentleman behind the counter, as expected, was very polite and eager to know how he could help us. We explained that we were interested in any pieces of Cheney he might have. He began a very long and detailed lecture about cheney, and how easy it is to sell fakes, and how it's so VERY important to make sure you're dealing with a very respected and established jeweler so that you know the pieces you're buying are genuine....blah, blah, blah....

       Meanwhile, I'm trying my hardest to keep my jaw from hitting the counter and any awkward laughs to come out of my mouth...while I'm also trying to discreetly elbow my hubby to try to make sure he was seeing what I was seeing...

       There, in this classy jewerly store, while a well dressed and very articulate jeweler lectured us on his well- respected reputation and business, was the store's computer...angled just enough for anyone at the counter to see...with some SERIOUS hard core porn playing. AWKWARD!!! Neither of us could get out of the store fast enough to start laughing and making sure the other had seen what was going on...we were laughing too hard to have known what to say! {Later we came up with a million remarks we could have made to the gentleman...}

The Awesome:

The laugh I had opening the letter from my hubby that included a stick-figure drawing of us in the store with this scene happening. {image below...} Thanks for that great memory today, baby!
The other letter included one of our favorite things....Mad Libs! I keep a book of 'em by the computer so when we get to skype we get a laugh out of one or two....

Info on the Extreme Makeover:Home Edition images is coming soon...I'm meeting with a CPA this week to make sure I dot all the i's and cross all the t's in the right way for setting up a way for all the proceeds from the image sales to go to The Jubilee House. I appreciate everyone's patience as I make sure to get this right...and I can't wait to share all the images with you all!

Don't forget to check out Heather & Erica's Awkward & Awesome posts as well...and have a great weekend!

OpLove Photography {Home Sweet Home}

2011-09-13T18:14:00.000-04:00

This beautiful couple welcomed home their sweet little man just a few short weeks ago, and I loved being able to capture these tender moments for them before Dad heads off to Afghanistan. Using their home as our backdrop, we met up bright & early Saturday morning for this OpLove session....

Little "W" was the calmest little guy...just happy to be in Mom & Dad's arms...

I was thrilled that Buddy came out for some photos, too...my four-legged family member streak continues! I love it! {But it's seriously getting harder & harder to resist bringing home another warm fuzzy to add to our family. I keep trying to tell myself two pets are already enough....I may just have to go get a goldfish or something...I just love dogs!}

Buddy seems to be pretty chill about sharing the attention with this new little member of the family; maybe that'll change once "W" is crawling after him, but for now he was all about trying to plant a big 'ol slobbery kiss on him. "W" didn't seem to mind one bit - boy, those two are going to be adorable together as the years go by! Sure hope I get the opportunity to capture some sweet little moments between the two of them in the future.

Thank you guys for the wonderful opportunity to photograph your sweet little family. I look forward to sharing the rest of your gallery with you. May this year apart speed by for you; can't wait to hear about a safe & happy homecoming!

{OpLove disclaimer: "The photos and other content of this publication do not constitute or imply any endorsement or recommendation by the Department of Defense."

OpLove Session {downtown Fayetteville}

2011-09-11T15:40:00.001-04:00

Thursday evening I had the pleasure of getting to photograph this lovey-dovey pair; capturing sweet kisses and glances and they prepare for facing a year apart. Married just about a year ago, they are still all doe-eyed toward each other...so sweet to witness!

This portrait of "C" is one of my favs of her that I captured. Something tells me this is one "M" will have in his "top ten" list for me to send to him overseas. She just looks so naturally radiant. And I just love that Tux & Sable, their surprisingly calm little chihuahuas, were sporting their patriotic bandanas and joining in on the fun. {Sable even had her nails painted for the occassion}

It was so wonderful getting to know you two! Thanks for being so fun & relaxed to work with...talk about making my job easy! I really look forward to photographing you both again in the future. I hope you enjoy this little sneek peek - your gallery is soon to follow!

'till then.... "M" - safe travels! Come home safe, and come home soon. I'll be looking forward to seeing the two of you together again XOXO

OpLove disclaimer: "The photos and other content of this publication do not constitute or imply and endorsement or recommendation by the Department of Defense."

Eli {and Mom, and Dad, and Buzz, and Woody....}

2011-09-08T16:34:00.000-04:00

This little guy has such cute little cheeks & perfect little pouty lips...and some of the best "I'm cute so I can get away with whatever" looks. {definitely caught some of those for Mom & Dad to enjoy!} His favorite word right now is "no!" - but he's so adorable about it, it's not a trouble-making "no," just a cute little "no." No matter what you ask. I love little ones....I love how they force you to step back and just enjoy the moment, because you never know what they'll say or what will get them excited. Inevitably I always wind up over-shooting when working with this age group because they're just a rollercoaster of expressions and I never want to miss a beat. It's so fun, but it definitely makes it hard to select the final images for the gallery.

These were the first two shots of the session, when Eli was still being a little shy. I loved how he was peeking over Mom's leg...

Getting to play by the fountain with Mom & Dad won him over....and since he brought along a few of his favorite friends we just had to let them splash & play, too. I was so glad he didn't move when I went an moved all his buddies to get them lying just like he was; I was so afraid I was going to miss the shot!

The skies were cloudy on Monday morning, but thankfully the little rain droplets held off until the end, and even then they were very light. Whew! This session was originally scheduled for when Hurricane Irene hit, so I was a little nervous seeing "scattered showers" in the forecast. So happy Mother Nature remembered that she owed us one and we were able to get this session in.

Awkward & Awesome Thursdays

2011-09-08T10:26:00.000-04:00

Welcome to this week's edition of "Awkward & Awesome"

{images above: "scenes" from my WVU snowglobe}

Don't forget to check out my friends' blogs to follow along on their "Awkward & Awesome" posts as well. Erica and Heather never dissapoint! Have a great weekend...and here's hoping you avoid any awkard moments and only encounter the awesome ones. {but if you have the inevitable awkard...I hope you're able to laugh about it!}

The Awkward:

Having to get a perscription filled for 31 tubes of cream...all at once. Talk about getting weird glances, especially as the lady at the counter shouted back to the pharmacist "do we even HAVE that many?!" Totally appreciated her subtly in asking that. Ha!
{ok, before you all go running and hide your children in fear of whatever has made me need to get that absurd amount of anything from a pharmacy, let me calm your fears.....I'm having surgery on my nose soon and I simply just have to do this nasal rinse everyday leading up to it; this cream is what I mix into the solution.}
While I'm on the topic of noses...do you use those netty pot things? The whole squeezing liquid up one nostral and having it come pouring out of the other really just falls on top of the "awkward" list for me. Especially when my cat hops up on the counter and watches. Everytime I use it I just can't help but giggle...which of course makes me wind up tasting the solution, which makes me grimace...and that's a whole 'nother level of awkward to catch a glimpse of yourself doing in the bathroom mirror...ok, I need to change to subject. Why couldn't I have just knocked over a huge display of Animal Crackers in the store or something? I'll try to do better next week.
talking about your nose and things you put up it. awkward. {Sorry!} hehe

The Awesome:

Snowglobes! Even cheapies at the tourist trap shops along the highways....little worlds with glittery snow falling on them just make me happy. My hubby & I have a big WVU one that plays a music box version of "Country Roads" when you wind it up. I love it!
Enjoying a book that just sucks you in...I love getting lost in another world. I've been trying to read for at least 30 mins every night before falling asleep, and the past couple books I've picked up have had me burning the midnight oil because I just couldn't put them down.

Harley & Her People {OpLove Photography}

2011-09-06T19:27:00.000-04:00

{OpLove disclaimer}

"The photos and other content of this publication do not constitute or imply any endorsement or recommendation by the Department of Defense."

Say "hello" to Harley and her two favorite People. I was lucky enough to spend part of Sunday morning with the three of them down at Linear Park here in Fayetteville. Between the adorable little puppy head tilts & kisses from Harley and the sweet adoring glances at eachother from this fabulous couple, I just couldn't get enough...

These two are just sweet beyond words, and seeing how in love they are just has kept me smiling all weekend. I loved going through their images as I was creating their gallery; almost every shot included them just all doe-eyed towards one another, and just like this one above they all just radiated with warm gushy feelings. Them having an incredibly well-behaved and uber adorable puppy just almost made it unfair...I mean c'mon! Since when do puppies just cozy up on a lap and tilt their heads just so like a photographer hopes they will? I was totally loving it! {And I have to brag a bit....this was the SECOND shot of the day. I could've just melted with happiness}

It's always my pleasure and honor to photograph an OpLove session.This couple was just so warm and easy-going; I truly hope I can be there to capture them reuniting when this deployment is over...

To "P" and "A": Thank you for this opportunity. Your personalities and love are infectious - you're both so wonderful to be around. I hope for you that this year flys by; stay safe & keep those smiles in your hearts...and may your Skype calls be clear & crisp without any awkward delays & video freezes {seriously!}

XOXO Missie

Awkward & Awesome Thursdays {a fun little group posting}

2011-09-01T14:13:00.000-04:00

{above images: Left- My sweet lab, Quilla, lying next to her leash by the back door this AM

Top Right-my new spice shaker, a gift from my Mom & Dad. Bottom Right- Salt shaker, bought on a trip to Mexico with my hubby}

This week's "Awkward & Awesome" is brought to you by the letter "C"....for coffee. Somehow, despite how "chill" this week's schedule has been for me, {no thanks to Hurrican Irene forcing me to reschedule sessions}, I just can't seem to get enough of it. Maybe it's the effects of a post-adreline rush from the triathlon, but I have been seriously dragging the past couple days! Not cool!

For those of you new to the blog...Welcome! Awkward & Awesome Thursdays is a fun little group posting I do every week with some fellow photographer friends, Heather & Erica. It's a light-hearted little way for us to stay in touch, and for you to get to know us a bit better. This late in the week sometimes you just need a giggle {and it's OK with us that it's at our expense} or a little good news...but be careful, sometimes these postings can have side effects! Erica once blogged about her orange fingers courtesy of a bag of Cheetos...and despite my best efforts to restrain myself I wound up caving to the craving her post created. I think I'm still running that indulgence off at the gym...

Since I didn't get a chance to post last week, this week will focus mostly on my experience competing in my first triathlon!

The Awkward:

Things you don't want to hear from a fellow racer just seconds before starting the swim portion of a triathlon: "I hope I don't get pinkeye again from this swim. Last time I swam in this lake I got it from the water..." For the first couple minutes I found myself doing a modified version of the breast stroke...I did NOT want to stick my face in that watert...
This one would be better with a visual aide, but my "creative problem solving" {I certainly can't call it genius engineering, although it worked - so maybe I can?} to get my bike rack attached securely to my VW Bug Convertible so that it could handle the 11+ hour drive I had to make.
I SO love my Mom & appreciate beyond words her undying support, but I still giggle thinking about this: I was home for a couple days before heading to my race and needed to get some of my training in. My rockin' Mom decided to buy a bike so she could ride with me.We did an 18+ mile ride with me on my racing bike...and her on her little "cruiser" - complete with a basket and a little bell that went "cla-ching, cla-ching." I would ride a few miles, then stop and wait for a while for her to catch up. I'd see her peddling away in her matching turqouise outfit, basket full of "gear," waving to me as she got nearer. She's so darn cute, but that was such a hoot to see! {I love you, Mom!}
The swim start to the triathlon: I had my "happy place" during the 2 minutes we were treading water before the horn went off. We were all spread out and I was ready to just zoom off ... but apparently my happy place was THE happy place that EVERYONE in my heat wanted to be in. The 10 second countdown began, and all of a sudden everyone seemed to magically get sucked into my foot of water. The horn went off and it was suddenly like this pirana attack of stranger's feet on my face and arms. EEEEW!
The way your legs feel after you get off the bike to start the run portion of a triathlon...twleve hundred pounds of concrete tied to each leg would be about equal.

The Awesome:

My Mom loving me enough to go buy a bike to ride along with me.
Getting over my completely irrational fear of riding a bike. Not only did I complete the extremely steep-hilled 17.5 mile bike course, but I rocked it!
Crossing the finish line.
Crossing the finish line and having your Mom & Dad literally RIGHT THERE to give you a huge hug.
The post-race "high" you get :-) I can't wait to do another one!

And here's one hell of an extra special "AWESOME":

Getting the news that your hubby's latest CT Scan shows NO SIGN OF ANY MORE CANCER! woooo-hoooo!!! We've been waiting for that for over 2 years now....

Sweet Liberty {The Patrick Family}

2011-08-24T22:16:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite benefits of being a photographer is getting to work with so many wonderful families; meeting everyone and getting to experience so many special personalities & moments is something I truly cherish. Sometimes, though, I get an extra special treat - the opportunity to photograph a family that's close to my heart. This was one of those sessions...proud new papa Eliot was the Best Man at my wedding {almost six years later everyone still talks about his speech} and last year Mike & I were there to help him celebrate his marriage to his gorgeous wife, Crystal. I don't think there's enough words to describe how ecstatic I was to be able to catch up with the two of them and finally meet their sweet new baby girl, Liberty.

Parenthood looks amazing on you two...congratulations again!

Miss Libby was not the happiest of campers in the tutu, but I still think she looks so stinkin' cute, even with the tears. {and how could I ignore her Mom's awesome shoes?}

The Chacko Family

2011-08-24T19:19:00.000-04:00

Zeus & his favorite people make up a super sweet family, and it was my pleasure to get to photograph them outside their beautiful home in Maryland this past Monday morning. After a week dedicated to the triathlon I was competing in, I was so excited to put down the sneakers and swim goggles and pick my camera back up!

I love getting to photograph families at their homes; having a setting so personal gives extra special significance to the portraits...not to mention it always seems to flow so smoothly for kids & pets since they are in a environment they can feel relaxed and familiar with. When you think about locations for your next family session don't be so quick to rule out your own yard!

A cool summer morning, bare feet on green grass, and getting to play with a fun little furry friend...that's what childhood memories are made of! Thanks so much you guys for welcoming me to your home to capture these moments for you. I really enjoyed getting to work with you!

Awkward & Awesome Thursday {A fun little group posting}

2011-08-11T17:13:00.000-04:00

Welcome back for another Awkward & Awesome Thursday!

The Awkward:

You know those ~~dayz~~ ~~dais~~ ~~daze~~ days where every word you type just looks weird and you suddenly can't seem to spell worth a lick? I'm having one...
Me. On a bike. (reality check: my triathlon is less than 10 days away now! oh, @*#$ !)
Gooseberries. blechk!! So very sorry gooseberry farmers & gooseberry lovers...but what are ya thinking? I saw these seductive little translucent pods glowing in the ~~artificle~~ artificial (see, told ya) sunlight in the produce aisle. They looked so intriguing, so delicate, so....good. I had to have them! Had to! I excitably hurried home and called my Mom to tell her about these gorgeous little gems I'd just discovered. I carefully opened the little pod, popped the waxy fruit into my mouth, took one taste....and immediately spit it out, gagged, made all kinds of weird noises, and waved my hand in front of my tongue as if that would really help get rid of the bitter aftertaste. My mom...simply laughed.

The Awesome:

Birthdays! It was my fabulously incredible, sexy, funny, heroic, sweet, goofy, & selfless hubby's 33rd Birthday yesterday. Happy Birthday, sexy butt! I love you!!!
My Trainer, Nick...ok, I've really not enjoyed a second of my training sessions, and I've had to explain to him several times that telling a gal that she's "thick" is NOT the compliment that he claims it is, ("Athletic" = OK, "Curvy" = OK...."thick" = NOT OK.... ) but I think he finally got the message. And now that I'm a week out from my tri, I can finally appreciate all the pain and suffering he's put me through. So I'll let the "thick" comments go...for now...and will appreciate the fact that because of his training I'm starting to feel pretty bad-ass in my workouts. In fact, if I can just get over my silly fear of riding down hill on a bike, I think I've actually got this triathlon in the bag!

OK, so I feel pretty bad for knocking Goosberries so hard, and for spitting one out and not bothering to give it a second chance, so to play nice here's a link to some Gooseberry Recipes. I hope that redeems me in the eyes of any Gooseberry Advocates out there....

Have a fantastic weekend! I'm taking the next 7 days to focus HARD on last minute training for my upcoming Iron Girl Triathlon. Wow, can't believe in just a few days I'll be able to say I did this...and I'm sure while I'll be cursing my friend, Ali, for getting me into this while it's going on I know I'll be thanking her profusely when it's over. This is certainly not something I'd have signed up for on my own...so cross your fingers for me & my race buddies Ali & Kirsten, and say a little prayer to the Bike Riding God that I can get through the 17.5 mile, 4-hill course without winding up kissing the pavement. THANKS! And don't forget to check out Heather & Erica's blogs for their weekly dose of funny :-)

Awkward & Awesome Thursday {A fun little group posting}

2011-08-04T14:16:00.002-04:00

Welcome back for another Awkward & Awesome Thursday!

The Awkward:

Realizing that after almost six years of marriage you still have the stickers on the majority of the gorgeous crystal glasses you registered for. {I think it's time to have a few people over for dinner & drinks!}
Dog farts {and the faces they cause you to make}.....gross! I don't know what Quilla got into....
Taking your car to the car wash, and getting completely tangled up in that huge industrial vacuum hose.

The Awesome:

Seeing my cat & dog snuggling together all the time will just never get old. I love that they're such good buddies!
Clinique Bonus Week...getting whatever cute new cosmetic bag they have always makes me happy. It's like a little makeover for my lipstick and mascara.
An exterior shot of the Extreme Makeover home being built was the cover photo for the Spartanburg Journal this week! How cool! I'm not an architectural photographer, so for that to be the type of image that becomes my first cover shot is something I'd never expected, but I certainly enjoyed it happening!
Being spoiled! Not one, but TWO bouquets of sunflowers were delivered to me this week; one from my wonderful Mother- and Father-in-Law, and yesterday one from my super sweet hubby. My living room looks so bright & cheery now!

Thanks so much for stopping by these week...don't forget to check out Heather & Erica's posts, too! XOXO

Awkward & Awesome Thursday {A fun little group posting}

2011-07-29T08:35:00.001-04:00

I've really been enjoying this new little weekly blog theme; a big thanks again to my friend Heather for getting a group of us together to start doing this! I really hope you've been able to get a few giggles on our behalf...we've definitely all had some pretty awkward "awkwards" to share! Thankfully, we've also had some pretty incredible "awesomes" to share as well...

Without further ado, here are some of the moments from my week that have left me both smacking myself in the head with embarrassment, and smiling big...

THE AWKWARD:

Feelin' all pumped and ready for an awesome workout in some schnazzy new cross-trainers....and then looking down while you're a few miles in only to realize you never took the huge tag/info pamphlet off the shoes. Now everyone at the gym is aware that you have a 15-day test run of the shoes. nice.
Why is it that every plant I bought for my garden out back has withered away, but the weeds are all growing lush and plentiful? I will win this battle....someday....
I know that I'm going to be 32 and that everyone on the planet has to go to the Drs and should really just get over it already, but seriously...all the questions you have to fill out or answer when you're seeing a new Doctor? I really wish the "ice breaker" questions when meeting a Dr for the first time could be more like "Did you see Hangover 2? Wasn't that hilarious?" rather than "and when was the first day of your last period?"
23 days 'till the Iron Girl Triathlon. WHAT?!!!

THE AWESOME:

New running shoes....I love the extra little "bounce" they add to your step!
Skype! I know we're behind the eight ball a little bit, but two months in to this deployment my hubby and I FINALLY had the chance to see each other. Pure awesomeness to see his smile.
Noticing that all the squats and lunges and hours spent at the gym may finally be paying off....I do believe my booty is a little bit perkier! (or maybe it's just the extra bounce from my new shoes....either way, I like it hehe)
Friends that convince you to do things you'd never do otherwise....like sign up for a triathlon. Seriously Ali...I love ya....I hate ya, but I love ya....

OK...I have a TON of blogging to catch up on over the next few days, so stay tuned. But don't forget to hop on over to Heather and Erica's blogs to share in their Awkward & Awesome's as well. Love those gals!

{Above Image: Kristen, one of Awesome instructors at Omni Fitness. She kicks my butt twice a week...and was one of the Featured Members I photographed last weekend for the gym's monthly Spotlight.)

The Wait is Over {OpLove Homecoming}

2011-07-25T22:59:00.001-04:00

Photography, to me, is always all about the moment - the emotion, the spirit, the feeling, the person. The lighting and setting is something I usually control. But sometimes the moment is bigger than you, and you don't have a say in setting or lighting...and while the images you capture may not be the most technically perfect, what you are capturing is beyond that...

At 1:45 AM today I had the luxury and honor of being able to experience one of those perfectly imperfect portrait moments. A poorly lit field and a quite crazy hour of the morning...hardly a photographer's dream situation. But this was definitely one of those "bigger than me" moments - a soldier's homecoming after a year in Afghanistan. It doesn't get much bigger than that...

Those first glimpses of each other; the first hugs; the first kisses; the tears; the joy; the moment a family becomes whole again. All is right once again in their world. Nope, it certainly doesn't get much bigger than this. And the smiles say it all...

Welcome Home! It was truly an honor to capture this moment for you...Thank you XOXO

{disclaimer} "The photos and other content of this publication do not constitute or imply any endorsement or recommendation by the Department of Defense."

Awkward & Awesome Thursday

2011-07-21T20:18:00.000-04:00

{insert photo of me & Paulie here}

Wow! To say that the past seven days has been a blur would be a HUGE understatement. But what an awesome, humbling, {exhausting} and emotional blur it was. I am so grateful for the

experience I had getting to photograph the behind-the-scenes action of the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition build. I will never forget this...and I have the 1,200+ photographs to prove it. yikes!

So for this week's "Awkward & Awesome" images I have a very cute shot of myself with EMHE Designer Paulie. I've been so excited to post it here...but for some reason my blogger is being temperamental today and I keep getting the dreaded "box with the red X." Boo! But that's OK, 'cause it is "Awkward and Awesome Thursday" and to have a post on a photography blog that doesn't include a photograph definitely fits the awkward category.

Without further ado....here is this week's "Awkward & Awesome"

The Awkward:

Talking to a group of people you had just taken a photograph of and asking them what brought them to Fayetteville from Nashville, TN...at a country music concert... in the VIP tent...{whoops! in my defense they had changed their shirts since they stepped off stage! sorry, guys!}
Nearly face-planting at the construction site in front of a whole slew of people. {How was I supposed to see the hot pink wire tied to the stakes that was outlining where a wall was going to go? Certainly the man bent over hammering in one of the stakes to stretch that wire wasn't a dead giveaway that something was there....and certainly I wasn't really that silly to not be watching where I was running to on a construction site! }

The Awesome:

This entire week! Seeing a community pull together to build a home for a wonderful family and the Women Veterans who they so lovingly help was just beyond words.

Extreme Makeover Home Edition {The Concert}

2011-07-21T18:59:00.001-04:00

Hmmm.....This should have posted a few days ago, but didn't....thankfully it was saved as a draft. Better late than never, right? Here's my posting from the 18th:

Yesterday was a blast! This is going to be a quick update - I was photographing until 9 last night and got a little carried away with shots of Josh Thompson performing, so when I got home...well, let's just say I was up 'till the wee hours looking at them all while narrowing down to the 25 shots of the day to submit. I'm a little fuzzy brained from lack of sleep, and still sorta feeling the speakers pounding from the concert...and I didn't get the complete set of images burned to CD yet like I normally do....and it's already 9:15 and I was hoping to be back on the scene by 8....where's the coffee when you need it? hehe But...here's a few quick snaps from the concert last night. This first one is after the concert ended, with Josh Thompson's Drummer and Guitarist. Super nice guys! I got to meet Josh as well before the concert, and snagged an autograph for my hubby. {There was this teenage boy there that the drummer was giving a drumstick to...he was so cute with how excited and nervous he was - he was obviously a big fan of the band and thrilled at the experience. I handed him my camera to snag our pic, and the poor kid was shaking so much that even after a few attempts this was the least shaky he could get. too funny}

Ok, this is where my lack of sleep comes into play....I can't remember this guitarist name! The Drummer was Brian (I'm pretty sure...). But this guy had awesome stage presence...he was fun to watch in action. I'll save some more stories for this week's "Awkard & Awesome" post, 'cause leave it to me to have some awkward happen this week for sure!

{I didn't really know who Josh was before the concert, but I am definitely now a fan. What a nice guy, great performer, and huge supporter of the military. Check out his fan club The Chrome Bullet Crew...he always wears a bullet around his neck from his father's 21 Gun Salute, so hence the name}

I had a blast getting to be backstage....never had that experience before, and now I'll never be able to go to a concert again unless it's with this kind of seat!

Jaime Tate was the opening act....she was super nice as well, and her band is so easy to talk to...well, especially when you don't realize you're hanging out talking to the band....like I said, more to follow on my "awkward" Thursdays ....

This is Josh at the beginning of his set. Yup, now my newest member of my celebrity crush list....

Extreme Makeover Home Edition {Day 4 on set}

2011-07-19T13:18:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was Day Four of the build, and it's definitely getting to crunch time! I've started popping in and out rather than staying all day like previously because I feel bad getting in the way of all the workers by walking around and through them to get images. But it's so much fun, and everyone's so fantastic that I have trouble making myself leave the area!

Cool compositions are all around on build sites...I was loving these people working on the stone; the straight line with varying heights - yeah! Of course you have to just "let go" and realize that you can really say "everyone stop! Hold it so I can get that shot!" when you're on a time crunch like these folks are, so you snap while you see it and hope not to many people step in front of you at that exact moment. {I'm still amazed that this one only had one "head" appear! This place is bumper-to-bumper people!}

This gentleman and his friend had the best spot in the house last night....right by a huge fan! Smart guys...very smart...{I should add that they were working hard, and only paused for a brief second. They joked that I had to take a pic that made 'em look like they weren't doing their job...so in case you're reading this, guys, see- I vouched for ya!}

I just thought this was cute....hustle and bustle all about below and I look up to see a pair of feet handing down through the rafters. Nice work shoes, too!

These are some of the guys who were working feverishly on the gorgeous decking. When I took this shot they'd been here for about 14 hours or something...but not one complaint and all still smiling and laughing...

Finally got to be there for some of the night action last night. This was at about 9:30 PM...they have it all lit up like a football field for the workers....

I saw this guy taking a breather and had to grab the shot really quick...just a bit lit from the bigs lights, I liked the "mood" of it. I actually bumped into him this morning and told him I liked the shot I got of him, and he told me he'd been on the site for 38 hours by that point! Yowzas! {He'd gone home and snuck in 6 hours of sleep and was back for more today. Love the dedication!}

Lots and lots of paint is needed for an 8,000 sq. foot home! I've been able to walk around inside and see some of the colors going up....very cool! I can't wait to see it all done when the show airs!

Well, I'm actually off to grab some more shots. If everything's on schedule then this afternoon the home gets turned over to the designers for them to work on the inside decor. Tonight I get to dust off and get dressed up to enjoy the VIP Fundraising dinner at the Cape Fear Botanical Gardens. I'm so excited!

Extreme Makeover Home Edition {Day Three on Set}

2011-07-17T09:03:00.000-04:00

Whew! Man...for this one week I really wish humans could function well without any sleep; I would just love to be able to stay on site 24/7 to see the whole process! I'm itching to get back to the site this AM...when I left yeterday the basement walls had just been completed and the concrete was about to be poured; overnight they started on the actual home! By the time I get there it's going to be mindblowing to see how much they were able to accomplish in the few hours I was away....
The two photos abover are Chip & Greg from Blue Ridge Log Cabins celebrating with the men from Superior Walls and the crowd as the last section of the basement gets placed. Woo-hoo for progress!
Below are some volunteers hard at work..I actually know Annmarie {painting the smiley face}; I was able to snag some pics of her and her friend working while Paulie was filming a scene in front of them. So fun to watch!

I think I over did it on taking photos yesterday....whoops...but there was just so much going on! I look forward to being able to share more....the building process and then more of the filming obviously make for some great photo ops!

Today I somehow need to find a magical cape to get me everywhere I want to be all at once. At Noon I'm actually going to be back at Omni Fitness shooting this month's Member Spotlight headshots, then I'll be bouncing back and forth between the construction site and Festival Park where tonight's concert is being held. {That'll be going on until from 12-9 downtown} I'm also dying to finally get back to the site for some night time action....so it's going to be a late one today! Most likely it'll be tomorrow night before I'm able to write again, but stay tuned!

You can also check out some more of my shots on Blue Ridge Log Cabin's Facebook Page. They're uploading more throughout the week, and also have a link to a live video stream of the build!

Extreme Makeover Home Edition {Day Two on Set}

2011-07-15T21:47:00.000-04:00

Day two on the set of Extreme Makeover Home Edition was so fun! {I think I'll be saying that about every day, just to warn you...} Nothing like tearing down a house to create some excitement. One of my favorite parts of any EMHE episode is seeing what creative ways they come up with for the demolition. Today was no dissapointment, and again it's just so crazy to watch how it all gets filmed versus how it plays out on TV. Certainly can't wait for this episode to air! I'm sure most people in Fayetteville know what happens from reading all the Tweets and FB updates, but in the spirit of good fun here on my blog I'm going to make you wait for the episode to actually air. {October-ish is the date...and yes, "ish" was the term used. I'll certainly let you know when I know the date...and after the show airs I'll write some "behind the scenes" notes - sort of like those "pop up videos" that VH1 used to do, only Missie Blog Style}

I will tell you that it was a fantastic group of Women who made the magic happen, all of whom are Veterans or currently serving in the Armed Forces. {a lot of awesome comraderie out there today!}
It was neat to see some of them snag autographs on their shirts...and so fun to watch Ty in action.

{Red shirts are Veterans, Green shirts Army (Hooah!), Blue were Navy & Airforce} I have a lot of great shots of the action today, including some shots of each of the designers autographing a very cool item that's going to be auctioned off, but any images I have of the designers/VIPs/Building Process, etc, I have to submit for approval before I can post. It's so cool to experience something like this as a photographer who normally focuses on family/child photography...I'm spending an entire day on set capturing hundreds of images, and then I come home and immediately upload them and have to narrow down to 25 to shoot off for submission. I then still have to go through all of them, do any little "clean ups," and then get everthing I shot on to CD to hand over in the AM when it all starts again. {let's just say my tendency to do a lot of clicking away is quickly being minimized! The art of "shooting for a purpose" is something that truly comes in handy for this!} I figured in advance I wouldn't be able to share any Celebrity/VIP images I capture until the approval process happens, but I was surprised to hear about them needing to look over EVERY image...but the answer made perfect sense: Some images won't be shared until after the show ends so as not to give away the entire episode; some will be used in promotional pieces just before the show airs; all need to be looked at to make sure everything is OK for legal reasons....so, now I know!

Here's my favorite group of gals on set again today...rockin' those blue shirts for sure. My personal goal is to get a group pic of them every day...now that the house is down, tomorrow that means these gals will be working hard...can't wait to catch 'em in action!

Extreme Makeover Home Edition {Day 1 on set}

2011-07-14T21:55:00.000-04:00

This week is such an exciting one for me; I will be photographing all the behind-the-scenes excitement of the Extreme Makeover Home Edition build here in Fayetteville! I linked up with the builders from Blue Ridge Log Cabins this morning...we got a little "pre-game" pep talk from the producers, and then it was off we went to surprise the family! {the caravan over was a whole journey in itself ... I'll save that for next week's "awkward!" hehe}

Before knocking on the door, Soldiers from Ft. Bragg, volunteers from the area, and the builders joined together to welcome the Designers...and got to enjoy the U.S. Army's Golden Knights parachute in! Then it was time to march over to the home! {this was my favorite part because you got to learn a lot about how shows are filmed. Everyone marched in complete silence and pantomimed the cheers and excitement...the sound will be added in later. It was funny to watch everyone smiling and throwing their arms in the arm in dead silence as we walked up the street and around the corner. The onlookers may not have realized they were told to be silent...must have been weird for them to see}

These awesome ladies have a special tie to the family being surprised. They were all so cute and so fun to meet...I hope to see a lot of them this week!

Above: Producers and the film crew give the crowd directions before silently marching to the home;
Greg, Chip, and the rest of the Blue Ridge Log Cabin builders and volunteers get filmed on the go; answering questions at a brief Press Conference in front of the home. Below: Golden Knights drop in.

Below: Barbara and members of the household talk to the press after being surprised.

Awkward & Awesome Thursday

2011-07-14T07:00:00.000-04:00

I have a lot of blogging to catch up on for the past two weeks, so stay tuned for a little "life in reverse" as I put together posts about the Chicks Who Click Convetion, a review of my new Kelly Moore Bag, share some images from the 4th of July beach wedding I second-shot, and fill you in on some exciting changes that I'll be making to my studio! I'll get it all in...PLUS I'll be blogging about these next few days that I'll be spending experiencing "Extreme Makeover:Home Edition" in a very cool way!

This week's "Awesome & Awkward" will be a quickie....but I hope you'll be checking back for my upcoming posts. Don't forget to check out Heather & Erica's blogs today as well!

THE AWKWARD:

These crazy butterflies I have in my tummy right now! I am SO excited, nervous, amped, pumped, psyched, ecstatic, thrilled, jittery, emotional, and downright THRILLED at the opportunity I have this week to photograph all the goings-on of the Extreme Makeover build that will be going on in Fayetteville.
This is an Awkward in Advance....I'm sure I will drool, trip, or say something completly stupid when I get in the presence of Ty Pennington. {oh please don't let me drool...anything but that!}

THE AWESOME:

Getting a call in response to submitting my name to Extreme Makeover Home Edition's website asking if I had been contacted yet about photographing the week, and if I was still interested and available. Um........DREAM.COME.TRUE!!!!

Have a fabulous day...and if you're volunteering on the build this week, I'll see you there!! Have fun!

For Daddy {OpLove Photography}

2011-07-11T20:37:00.000-04:00

This past Friday morning I met up with this lovely Mom and her adorable little man for an OpLove session. Sweet little "A" has by far the cutest little furrowed brow and serious little pout; he completly won my heart from the first little sniffle and bottom lip quiver. I'm glad he can't talk yet- with his little looks I would have handed over anything he asked for... not to have him growing up too quickly on Mom & Dad, but oh heavens when he's 4 I hope I get to photograph him! I can just imagine how many little faces he'll make and the funny things he'll be saying. I really enjoyed getting to know Mom and coo over little "A." I certainly can't wait to get an album downrange to Daddy so he can enjoy his beautiful family...

{disclaimer} "The photos and other content of this publication do not constitute or imply any endorsement or recommendation by the Department of Defense."

Thanks SO much for the opportunity to capture these moments for your family. I can't wait for "A's" First Birthday session, and my fingers and toes are crossed that Daddy will be home safe to you by then!

The Whitehead Family {All together}

2011-07-06T18:43:00.000-04:00

Last evening I had a really sweet opportunity ... getting to photograph a family that was not only all together (we all know how hard that is to pull off nowadays), but also celebrating welcoming two very sweet little ones into their lives! Larissa is just 2 weeks old, and little Bruce is 4 months....how fun it will be for the cousins growing up so close in age!

This was a last-minute session that I'm so glad was able to work out...and we pulled it off just in the nick of time, too; it started to downpour just as I pulled out of their driveway. Bruce and his parents are already on their way back to Texas, so re-scheduling would have been a bit hard. {this is me breathing a sigh of relief!}

I loved getting to capture everyone together, but especially loved getting to capture Great Grandpa holding each of his sweet little great grandchildren...

Awkward & Awesome Thursdays {Week 5}

2011-06-30T14:00:00.000-04:00

Such an amazing week I've had...and of course like all thing awesome, it just flew by in a snap! So many things from my time at the amazing Chicks Who Click Conference that I want to share with you all in the coming weeks, including some exciting additions and changes to Missie Jurick Photography; but first it's time once again for Awkward & Awesome Thursday!

The Awkward:

Can I get a round of applause,please? I spent four days surrounded by extremely talented, blog-stalker-worthy, utterly wonderful fellow photographers...and somehow managed NOT to completely embarass myself! I didn't fall, walk around with spinach in my teeth, trip over any cords during a photo session sending sets tumbling, or {that I know of, anyway...} say anything completely ridiculous. For this I'm granting myself a one-week "pass" for anything in the awkward range of life. This week, as far as my blog is concerned, I was the epitome of perfection....{?? is this allowed ??}

The Awesome:

Stressing slightly over being at a conference all by your lonesome only to find that a friend from WVU, who you haven't seen in 4 years, is there too!
Having a career in which conferences are actually FUN, motivational, enriching, emotional, and life-changing events. True confession: when I was a teacher and went to conferences I'd be watching the clock thinking "when's the break?!" Since becoming a photographer full time I don't miss a session and am always just wanting more! True confirmation that I've made the right call for myself in leaving behind a steady paycheck to build my own business. It really is all worth it.
Needing a box of tissues because you're just that moved by someone's images and story.
Being "that girl" on a 5 1/2 hour plane ride who talks a stranger's ear off because you have so many ideas in your head you just can't keep them in a minute longer or you'll explode....and having that stranger thankfully not strangle you or pretend to fall asleep. {Regina, if you ever stumble upon this blog thanks for listening and your feedback!! }
Coming home to your dog waiting excitably at the door for you, tail wagging and tongue out.
Your best friend coming to visit...and a house being a home again because of that.
Excuse to go to the Cupcake Gallery!!! Your best friend is here with her hubby and two crazy-cool kids, and everyone knows after a day at the Children's Museum you HAVE to have cupcakes!

Heather & Erica will have their posts up today, too, so don't forget to check in with them! I hope you have a fantastic weekend...HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY! XOXO missie

Awkward & Awesome Thursdays {Week 4}

2011-06-23T19:27:00.000-04:00

Welcome to week four of "Awkward & Awesome Thursday!" This week I'm writing to you from hot, hot, hot & sunny Scottsdale, Arizona, where I am so excited to be attending the "Chicks Who Click" photography conference at the beautiful FireSky Resort. I'm thrilled to say my flights here were not only smooth, but I somehow managed to avoid the dreaded "C" boarding group on my Southwest flights AND scored the extra leg room of the emergency exit row. To top it off, my bag was the first off the carousel and I had enough time to sit by the lagoon here and read a bit before everything begins tonight. Ahhhhh....but, I will stop there before I jinx myself for the trip home! I hope you all have had a fabulous start to your summer, and without further ado......

The Awkward:

Going to a conference all by yourself...I feel like I'm back in middle school! What should I wear? Who do I sit with? They're laughing over there in the corner...is my skirt tucked into my undies? Do I wear the lanyard and ID tag around my neck, or is that not what the "cool kids" are doing? Where's Sandy Puc'? What's she wearing ... is she wearing hers? If she is, then I'm not nerdy for wearing mine....she's cool, she's got multi-colored hair...ok, other people are wearing theirs so I'm OK....but the bag? What do I do with the bag? Is it nerdy to carry it around? OK...I'm just gonna sit here and read until the first class starts...
Realizing that the reason you seem to be 1 hour early to register and then again to go to the first class is because you ARE 1 hour early. {How could I forget about that final time change I just had?} These gals at the registration table must think I'm weird and really not good at telling time...I was right in my world, just not theirs...oh, well....it only took me 3 hours to figure it out...

The Awesome:

Being at this conference!
The goody bag !
The amazing talent downstairs...I can't wait to soak it all in and make new friends!
My Grandparents!! They both competed in the Senior Olympics this week and brought home a Silver (PopPop), Bronze (Grandma) AND a Gold (together as a pair team) in bowling! So darn proud of them!!

OK--- ten minutes 'till show time! I'll blog more about this week for sure. For now, don't forget to check out Heather and Erica's Awesome & Awkward posts, too. Always a hoot, and always with beautiful imagery!

Merry Bee Farms

2011-06-22T19:30:00.000-04:00

This is beautiful Merry Bee Farms...I am lucky enough to have met the owners, and beyond thrilled that they are allowing me to offer their property as a location for portrait sessions! I enjoyed a beautiful spring morning walking around taking in all the scenary last week as I prepped for the Bowman's family session. I am so in love with their farm...and so grateful for the opportunity to photograph there. I just love the morning light on their farm, and so hope to get to take advantage of it more in the future....

Member Spotlight Headshots {Omni Fitness}

2011-06-22T18:27:00.000-04:00

Omni Fitness Center in Fayetteville, NC, is going to be starting a Member Spotlight every month on their website and facebook page; each featured member will be applauded for their achievements, and hopefully their individual accomplishments will also serve as motivation for other members. It was my pleasure to photograph this inagural group of Omni Fitness Members!

The Bowman Family {Merry Bee Farms}

2011-06-18T21:00:00.000-04:00

I was so excited this morning to finally have the chance to photograph a session out at this beautiful location. The owners of this farm have been beyond gracious in letting me come out to oogle their fantastic setting, and roam about to enjoy their horses and cattle with my lens. Today I got to share this scenary with a super sweet family, and I so hope to be able to share it with many more families in the near future....

{I am in love with these two shots...when my hubby & I finally have our family I can just picture a set of 2 or 3 of these over our couch. Doesn't this just scream "fun?!"}

Ah! Such a beautiful family!

Mr. Connor wasn't the happiest of campers this morning, but there is a series of shots to go with this one where he's sitting on the crates that I know his Mom & Dad are just going to love...

Miss Jade is such a wonderful big sis...isn't that first shot of her in the awesome hat just so sweet? It completely matches her personality....

After a morning in the thick, wet, Carolina heat there's no better way to wrap up a photo session than to enjoy some watermelon. {well, unless there's a pool nearby...I think we were all ready to find one to jump into by this point!} Bowmans, thank you for being such a wonderful bunch to work with! Enjoy the rest of your vacation time, and Happy Father's Day to you Aric! Hope you enjoy this sneak peek...

A Diva and 3 Dudes {Camera Strap Cover}

2011-06-18T15:49:00.000-04:00

I learned from an early age the importance of accessorizing, so it really is a wonder that it took me until now to finally get one of those cute camera strap covers that you see everywhere. There's an endless supply of them out there on the web to purchase, and so many beautiful fabric patterns....it was hard to choose just one...

With so many stores offering them, it was a bit overwhelming to decide who to order from...so I thought for anyone else in the same boat I'd post my personal opinion on my recent purchase. While a camera strap cover isn't as "important" as chosing a lens or camera bag, it's still a purchase and something that reflects your style, and it's nice to feel confident in any purchase that you make.

As I mention a lot, I am a HUGE fan of etsy. I just love the unique things you can find on there, and I love the artistry and love that goes in to everything being sold...not to mention I love supporting other small businesses. There are a slew of etsy shops that sell these covers, and a surprising price range as well for something like this. I wound up ordering from a shop called A Diva and 3 Dudes; they had one of the lowest prices, and their customer reviews all raved about receiving their order quickly and loving it. {There were a few more expensive shops that had a little wider selection of fabrics, some even with ruffles or the option to have 2 fabrics for 2 looks...I loved those, but when I saw a few comments about taking forever to get the products I decided to try another route.}

I'm sure all the other shops are fabulous- their designs are cute, and I've personally never had a bad experience from any etsy shop - but I can tell you that I'm thrilled with A Diva and 3 Dudes and will definitely order from them again. Their prices were awesome, I had my strap arrive in 2 days {I love instant gratification}. It's just as padded, comfy, well-made, and convenient as they describe. I wore it this AM on a lengthy outdoor family session; we were walking all over a farm in thick, humid, wet North Carolina heat;my camera never felt so comfy on my neck, and I loved the padding-just the right amount. My favorite little feature, though, is the little lens cap pocket. I have a few lense cap straps, but I've had the attachment fall off, and I'm always sticking the caps in my pockets and forgetting where they are...this was so nice to just pop into the pocket and not worry about...

Awkward & Awesome Thursday {week 3}

2011-06-16T13:26:00.000-04:00

{This week's images are inspired by my hubby, who for some reason is obsessed with owning one of those t-shirts that says, "That's how I roll." And, well, let's be honest-everyone has one of these awkward moments happen!}

The Awkward:

I cannot believe I have to admit this, but I spent an entire weekend visiting one of my closest friends, and didn't realize until I got home that I had completly screwed up and didn't remember that it had been her birthday!! I gushed and gooed over her adorable baby girl, brought the baby a gift, brought wine and cake to thank her Mother-in-Law for having me over, and somehow managed to completely mess up by not only not bringing the Birthday gal a gift, but didn't even know to wish her a happy birthday! Unfortunetly birthdays are not something I'm good at remembering, and I try so hard to stay on top of them because to me that's a day that should be celebrated and celebrated big...so to Liz, and ALL my friends since I know I'm a dunce about getting cards and calls out to you, I love you and wish you the happiest of birthdays!
ok, really? There's nothing that can top that for me this week...that's about as awkward and embarrassing as it can get for me. I'd much rather have found myself grocery shopping naked than to have had this happen!

The Awesome:

Getting to catch up with an incredible friend that you haven't seen in months...
Getting to meet that incredible friend's amazing new baby girl...
having the excuse of getting to link up with your incredible friend to be able to enjoy the first official roadtrip with your brand new car...
...and that new car happens to be a convertible, and the weather happened to be perfect... and you sound sooooo much better singing in your car when the wind is blowing and the music is blaring. {ok, so maybe anyone stuck at a stoplight near me may not have thought this was so awesome....}

Don't forget to check out Heather and Erica's blog posts, too. Their Awkwards & Awesomes are always a treat...and I just adore their other posts, too...

Ella {Asheville, NC}

2011-06-12T10:43:00.000-04:00

Fourteen months I've waited to meet miss Ella...and oh was it worth every minute of waiting to finally get to see her chubby little cheeks, sweet little smile, and adorable little toes! Not to sound cliche', but I remember when she was just a twinkle in her Mommy's eyes...and now she's this amazing little 5 month old!

I met her Mommy back at Fort Irwin, and unfortunetly the Army pulled a cruel prank on us and moved us to diffferent parts of the U.S. just before Ella arrived. Thankfully for me, Ella's Papa & Grandma happen to live in beautiful Asheville; while she & her Mommy were out here visiting this weekend I was able to take advantage of the opportunity to at long last catch up with my friend and finally meet Ella. Of course, that meant they were not going to have an excuse to avoid my camera.

Liz just glows with happiness when she's holding Ella...it was such a joy to watch and capture. We actually shot these photos right where Liz married her sweetheart, Patrick; I just love that the setting is not only just lush and beautiful, but has such a special significance as well...

Operation: Love ReUnited {Fort Bragg}

2011-06-09T18:46:00.000-04:00

As a photographer I truly believe my job is not just to take a photograph of someone, but rather to really capture a glance, an embrace, a laugh... a fleeting moment of time that is a story forever preserved. As one photographer I greatly admire wrote, "I do not sell paper."
A photograph, to me, is one of the most valuable things a person can own. It does not ever depreciate - in fact, it's one of those rare things in life that only gains value as it ages. It is something to cherish forever, something that is proof of "us," something that can be passed down for generations so that we are not forgotten.

I think {hope} that this is how all photographers feel, and this rather romantic outlook is the reason why I especially love photographing families. The idea that these moments will be theirs to look back makes me smile, and I love the thought of them all sitting around someday sharing these images with grandkids & great grandkids - telling stories, reliving memories, and honoring the amazing love & bond that they have.

Last evening I had the pleasure of meeting up with this beautiful family for an OpLove session. They're celebrating Dad's arrival home from Iraq for his R&R...and, of course, the fact that it's the start of summer vacation from school. Despite the "thick" heat outside, they were all just smiles & laughter, and I enjoyed every second of getting to know them. I can't wait to get their gallery out to them so that they can pick their favorite images for me to send downrange to Dad. I hope these memories help bring "home" to him so that the rest of the deployment just speeds by a little bit quicker...

If you would like to know more about Operation: Love ReUnited (aka OpLove) please click here. You can also find the information on my wesbite here, under the "information" tab.

Awkward & Awesome Thursday

2011-06-09T11:29:00.000-04:00

Here we are! Week two of the "Awkward & Awesome" blog post, where you get to have a little giggle at my own expense. In addition to getting to know me a bit more...It's free! So, why not come back every week? And while you're at it, check out my fabulous friends Heather & Erica, who are taking part in this fun little bit, too! (and don't forget to share your link to your blog with us so we can follow along with you. Drop me a line on facebook)

(drumroll, please....)

The Awkward:

Ya know those "sneeze guards" up at salad bars & buffets? Whack!! Completely smacked the back of my head on one...that's what I get for cheating on my diet at a Chinese Food Buffet. (I believe it was the sesame chicken that I was reaching for....)
At this same restaurant a woman kept following me asking where I found my shrimp...well, I didn't have any shrimp on my plate, I had no idea where the shrimp was, and I was running out of ways to tell her that...
What's up with the atomic wedgies that only seem to occur while you're running on the treadmill at the gym...during the most crowded time of day? (is there a discreet, polite & ladylike way to pick those?)
Having to chase my cat, Biff, around my yard while I'm in my hot pink pajamas...he's been having a bit of a love affair with our stray cat through our screened in porch and once again "busted loose" to go on out and party. I should add that the street I live on has a couple museums and businesses, so there's always people out and about....

The Awesome:

A bowl full of fresh blackberries
My heating pad + a good book = sweet relief for my back after yesterday's workout
Speaking of good books....Water for Elephants is fantastic. I read it forever ago, but am re-reading it this week so I can see the movie.
My hilariously entertaining, completely supportive, and oh-so-loving parents celebrating their 38th wedding anniversary.
"Poe", the stray cat I've been feeding and trying not to fall in love with, finally let me really pet her the other day. Her purrs were going full-force as I rubbed under her chin.

Stephanie & Josh {Shady Wagon Farm}

2011-06-02T14:57:00.001-04:00

At a fantastic photo seminar in Raliegh I was fortunete enough to be sitting next to a super fun, super talented, & super sweet wedding photographer, Kristin Boness. Between the spells of lovelust & super powers that Jerry Ghionis and Sandy Puc' had us all under, we were able to strike up a few conversations and of course traded info. A great little friendship formed via Facebook, and I was tickled pink with enthusiasm one day to get a call from Kristin asking if I'd be interested in shooting a few weddings with her.

Weddings make me so giddy...the details, the colors, the emotions, the fun, excitment, personalities, locations....for me, it's all a photography dream! And in the not-too,too-distant future (when the hubby is retired from the army & we're not be-bopping around the world every 2 years) I plan on diving into the world of wedding photography more. But for now, when I'm not in a location long enough to really create bonds with amazing vendors and truly break into the wedding market, I plan on soaking up all the fun I can get second-shooting these beautiful events. {of course that doesn't mean I'm not up for flying solo! Just not marketing myself for weddings right now...I'm digging the fun sessions I do.}

This past Saturday was my first time getting to work with Kristin. It's always a little "butterfly in the tummy" feeling to second-shoot with someone - what's their shooting style? Are they wound up balls of stress? Too relaxed to the point you're wandering aimless?- Whew! Thankfully Kristin is definitly NOT any of those. She is so organized, so calm, and obviously feels the same way I do about the importance of really getting to know who you're photographing. It was a BLAST working with her and getting to know the DJ & Videographer, and I certainly look forward to more Saturdays with her. (just need to remember to avoid the temptations of the slices of wedding cake we're offered!! YUM)

As a second-shooter I get to enjoy a little less pressure than the main photographer, and get to have fun shooting from a different perspective-which I think suits my "storytelling" style well. It also means I get to play with the detail shots...which are always my favorite :-)

These are just a few of the images I took at Stephanie & Josh's wedding out at the beautiful Shady Wagon Farm in New Hill. They are SUCH a sweet & gorgeous couple and I really enjoyed getting to know them and their love story. (Josh proposed with the help of their new little puppy...how cute!) I loved the location & the gorgeous shade of blue the gals wore. Everything just popped with color...but with the earthy setting, I just had to give these images a bit of a vintage tone for the blog post. XOXO

Awkward & Awesome Thursday {a fun little group posting}

2011-06-02T09:15:00.000-04:00

Kelly Hicks' Blog Heather A Scott Photography & Design Blog Erica Vining Photography's Blog

Adrienne & Mike {Fayetteville}

2011-05-18T22:31:00.000-04:00

Wall of Keys {Wilmington,NC}

2011-05-18T11:03:00.000-04:00

St. Croix {a great escape with my hubby}

2011-05-10T12:09:00.000-04:00

Tammi & Rob {xoxo}

2011-05-03T17:09:00.000-04:00

No "Grouchos" in this group! {Linear Park}

2011-04-14T16:47:00.000-04:00

Ali

2011-04-12T22:07:00.000-04:00

Christine & Kyle {more from the lovebirds}

2011-04-12T18:23:00.000-04:00

Christine & Kyle {Engagement}

2011-04-05T22:32:00.000-04:00

On a Vintage Kick {My Finds}

2011-03-22T11:11:00.000-04:00

Birthday surprise {Cape Fear Botanical Gardens}

2011-03-15T16:02:00.000-04:00

My New (old) Little Loves

2011-03-08T12:44:00.000-05:00

New to the studio: Loktah CD Packaging

2011-03-07T19:21:00.000-05:00

{a faucet personified}

2011-03-01T14:17:00.000-05:00

{more} from the garden...

2011-03-01T12:32:00.000-05:00

"Keep a green tree in your heart..." {from the garden}

2011-03-01T11:43:00.000-05:00

Project 52:Week 8 (a Bug's View)

2011-03-01T09:04:00.000-05:00

Long distance hug & Project 52, week 4

2011-02-01T19:42:00.001-05:00

Project 52: Week 1

2011-01-31T17:36:00.000-05:00

Up in the Morning with the Rising Sun (Market House Sunrise)

2011-01-31T15:30:00.000-05:00

Charlotte Elaine

2011-01-11T10:10:00.000-05:00

Home Sweet Home

2010-12-14T20:44:00.000-05:00

New home...new look!

2010-10-25T03:12:00.000-04:00

Jessica {Class of 2011}

2010-10-07T18:59:00.000-04:00

I had such a great time hanging out with Jessica last evening. This is the third time I've been able to work with her, but this time it was all about her as we celebrated her Senior year!! Whooo-hoooo! Between her busy schedule (volleyball, planning an awesome murder-mystery themed homecoming dance, mathletes....} and my upcoming move I was beyond thrilled when there was actually a date that worked for both of us to link up. I would have been so bummed to not be the one to get her a rockin' yearbook pic!

We hit the Harvey House in Barstow as the main location for her Senior Portraits. {and met some cute little dogs ... one makes a cameo appearance in one the pics going in her gallery hehehe} There was also a funky purply-pink building I'd been eyeing for some photos that we took advantage of ... and of course the Drive-In!

It took me forever today to try to go through and pick out which ones I wanted to use for the sneek peek {obviously! This is a big one!} so now I'm finally getting full-force into the gallery :-) Jessica-hope you love 'em! You were -as always- so great to work with. Have a BLAST this year, and be sure to keep in touch. I can't wait to hear which school you pick {my vote goes for the funky eclectic campus...but you'll do great no matter where you decide to go!} Thanks again!

Carla's two loves {OpLove Photography}

2010-10-02T18:29:00.000-04:00

OpLove DOD disclaimer: "The photos and other content of this publication do not constitute or imply any endorsement or recommendation by the Department of Defense."

OpLove sessions are always such special sessions; military families sacrifice so much for our country, and being able to give them some precious moments to hold on to throughout a deployment is truly a honor. They deserve so much more, but it's nice to think in some way you're contributing to making time apart just that little bit more "bearable." This particular OpLove session is especially heartfelt for me as I've had the pleasure of getting to work with this family several times over the past few years. I first met them when I did their engagement session, and have been able to follow their love story out to D.C. and back, leading up to this - the birth of their first little one, and now a deployment.

I can't lie...I spent a long time surfing the web for the perfect words to accompany this sneak peek. But there aren't any words, in my opinion, that can truly take the emotions of a deployment and make them less raw or any easier to swallow.

Thank you for the sacrafices you are ALL making for this nation. I look forward to getting a carepackage full of photos and cookies out to you, but certainly more look forward to getting the note saying you're home safe and sound. I can't wait to work with you again! Much love to you all, and many congratulations on your completely perfect little man!

Gettin' Carried Away {With the Jeppsons}

2010-09-26T20:19:00.000-04:00

wow, the reality didn't hit me until we were back at my house {and I was making waterballons for the girls hehehe} that this was my last official Ft Irwin family session before I move!! I have a studio OpLove session this week, but then all my sessions after that are off-post....crazy! {sigh....I will miss this door on post...but looking online I've noticed some awesome little parks and murals around my soon-to-be-neighborhood!score!} Anyway....I'm so thrilled I got to meet the Jeppson family before my time in the desert comes to a close. How sweet they are!

I really enjoyed getting to work with you guys...thank you! {and I'm glad we made it through this session without the MPs pulling me over again! whew!} Your gallery will be up soon :-) Hope you love the sneek peek....the last three on here I've added a "watermelon" haze to...I'm lovin' it! Your gallery will have these with and without the haze so I'm excited to get your opinion on which versions you like; I kept clicking back and forth between them trying to decide!

Me n' my Battle Buddies

2010-09-22T14:10:00.000-04:00

Every military spouse knows the deal: you PCS to a new post, meet amazing new people, form beautiful friendships, and then before you know it it's time to repeat the process. Sometimes you get each other through deployments, sometimes it's through growing pains in a marriage...sometimes it's finding humor and sanity in being stuck out in the middle of the Mojave desert. Sometimes life throws at you a really crappy series of unfortunete events ... but always- ALWAYS- you know that those friends you've made are there for you. They're your home away from home, your strength, your laughter & tears, the reason that you know that -no matter what - it's all gonna be OK.

I've mentioned before my two great friends, Sandy & Liz...both of whom my hubby & I couldn't have survived the horrors of last year without. We could honestly try for the rest of our lives to find ways to thank them for all they did for us, and I don't think we'd ever find a way great enough. So, needless to say, these two have been my "battle buddies" for the past two years. This week Liz gets to start an exciting new chapter in her life. She and her cute little pregnant belly got to "kiss the coyote" goodbye...leaving Sandy & I feeling the blues. But before she left I passed the camera to my awesome hubby and had him snap a few silly pics "photobooth" style for us. so...had to share :-)

And speaking of winds of change....yesterday I got the call from the hubby that we'll soon be blowing outta here as well! Very soon, actually! As an Army wife, "Bloom where you are planted" and "Home is where the Army sends you" are two quotes you kinda gotta just live by. Mike and I are excited to be heading back east to Fort Bragg, North Carolina. I've got a lot of blooming to do!! So please stay tuned as I figure everything out...this is gonna be fun!

{At Home} with the Williams Fam!

2010-09-22T01:02:00.000-04:00

Saturday AM I got to hit the road and head out to Apple Valley to hang out with this gorgeous family at their new home. It was so fun to have a change of scenary, and I really enjoyed getting to capture them literally feeling "right at home." Princess, their adorable poodle, also got to join in the fun! {and totally cracked me up...what a sweet little bundle of energy!}

I REALLY had a great time getting to know you guys! Thanks so much for the opportunity to work with you! {And oh! That Italian restaurant I was asking about - it's called Mama Carpino's....and it's AWESOME! I recommend it!} Gallery coming soon :-)

The Boyles!

2010-09-18T00:31:00.000-04:00

Harry, Amelia & Charlotte got to welcome their new baby sister, Elena, just two weeks ago...and they are just so sweet with her. Mom's little "sausage" slept through all the hubbub of the family portraits and her sibling's photos...and then she decided to tug on every hearstring that I had by waking up and only calming down when she was being held and snuggled. (it was nice to cuddle a newborn again, though! -sigh-so darn sweet! I love newborn sessions) Not even the cozy swaddling made her feel better...but wait! Ah, yes...the thumb! As soon as she found that, she was happy :-)

Mom had a sweet little nursery rhyme she sang (that's the first part I wrote above....only imagine it with an awesome British accent...that just made it ten times sweeter to listen to!) that I'm going to have to remember. My second little niece is due in not too long, and I can't wait to sing it to her and her sister when I go see them. (Thanks for sharing that, Julie!)

Congratulations again to this sweet, sweet family!

LiveLaughLove {the Wahl family}

2010-09-14T21:39:00.000-04:00

Saturday evening I got to spend a refreshing hour with an incredibly laid-back and sweet family. {well, maybe "energetic" is a better suited word to describe Aaron, their oldest boy! hehehe...I love it!} Surprise bonus! About 20 mins before our session their Poppy made a surprise visit, so he got to join in the fun, too!

Wahls-thank you! Hope you enjoy your sneek peek {hope everyone does?! Had fun playing around with this...my blog needs a facelift so trying this out....} Your gallery will be up SOON!

The Miller Family

2010-09-03T12:40:00.000-04:00

Wednesday night I hit Jackrabbit Park with the Miller family. After looking for the desert tortoises, playing around, and goofing off with some blow horns we headed out to Bicycle Lake. We'd had some rare desert rain last week, and thankfully there was still some "puddles" out at the dried lakebed...how fun to get some reflections of Tiefort Mountain! That's certainly something you don't see everyday in the middle of the desert! I couldn't resist adding some texture for this shot of them walking ...

Thanks for letting me hang out with you guys...hope you enjoy your sneek peek! Lots more to come in your gallery :-) Hope you have a fantastic Labor Day weekend!

Pickles n' Ice Cream {Ronnie & Jamie}

2010-09-01T03:33:00.000-04:00

Whew! Getting a little carried away with this sneek-peek...I just couldn't decide what to share! Some of these images are the original versions, and some I've added a fun little haze to; I'm loving the colors and the romantic and playful feel they add. I think they're perfect for a desert maternity session for a sweet couple expecting a little girl. Hope you agree!

ha! It was fun standing in line at the commissary holding nothing but a jar of pickles and tub of ice cream...I certainly got a few looks, and I think I left one of my neighbors a little perplexed...but I thought incorporating the little cliche' would be a perfect icebreaker for this couple's maternity session, which was a surprise gift for them from the Mommy-to-be's parents...too fun!

I confess: I was a bit nervous about doing a maternity session without getting to talk to the couple first...but after a few minutes of watching them interact, I knew I had nothing to worry about...they seemed right at ease and able to be themselves. {gotta love the belly comparison!}

{I got the idea for this clothesline shot right before the session...I love how it turned out!}

Just after these desert shots were taken a vigilant someone had called the MPs to report us as "suspicious behaviour." I guess me with my camera gear and a cute couple out in the desert-eventhough we weren't anywhere unauthorized-sent someone's red flag up! {I guess working on a military installation it was bound to happen sometime! hehehe}

after this series of shots we started heading out towards Bicycle Lake; we were unaware that we were apparently "wanted for questioning!" Long story short, we thankfully had two very nice MPs and obviously no issue lettng them know what we were doing....but even after they did an ID check and verified my vehicle they still stayed on to watch the remainder of the outside part of our session...

...so these pics just go to show how completely in love, at ease, and unphased these two were to still just be able to be themselves while an audience of MPs watches on!

Jamie and Ronnie {my partners in crime}

After these we went back to the studio for some more shots...thankfully without any MPs to watch ;-) I'm sure I'll probably post some of those portraits, too..

Jamie & Ronnie....thank you so much for being such a great couple to work with! And for laughing off the MP experience...whew! It was so wonderful to get to know you...congratulations! Safe journeys back home to the east coast...and I hope you'll keep in touch! You'll have to be sure to send pics of your little Taylor come November. I hope you've enjoyed your sneek peek...your gallery is soon to follow :-) I truly hope our paths cross again someday! {maybe at a repeat performance of the WVU-Georgia Sugarbowl? hehehe...sorry, Ronnie...I had to get that in there.}

{love}

2010-09-01T01:30:00.000-04:00

I'm having such a good time editing last night's session with Jamie and Ronnie...and it's not because I'm still laughing about our run-in with the post MPs! I'm really loving the colors, and the way they're just so smiley and happy and lovey-dovey with each other...and I think with this maternity session and the one with Trisha & Kyle I'm finally truly embracing the beauty of the desert and finding what I like best for my color palette. I also finally allowed myself to buy some "haze" actions from one of my favorite inspirations, My Four Hens, so I wanted to share a few examples with you. (I've been wanting to play with them forever, but was keeping them as a little reward for myself.) The middle image is the original, straight from the lens with no editing...the top and bottom images each have a different little haze to them. (dusty and pumpkin) I'm posting the official sneek peek in a moment...you'll see more of these ... I may not sleep tonight; I can't decide which haze I like best and keep playing with them for all the images! Somebody stop me! hehehehe

Jack {he's finally here!}

2010-08-30T12:33:00.000-04:00

Meet sweet little Jack...just 19 days old!

7 lbs, 3 oz and 19.9 inches of pure cuddly joy

I met this beautiful new Mommy a few months ago when we were planning her maternity session, and we instantly hit it off. I just couldn't wait to finally meet her little "Piggy!" I'm still amazed at how lucky I am to get to meet the people I meet, and to be able to share in such amazing moments of their lives....

Jack was in a bit of "serious" mood Saturday night, and definetly preferred being bundled up tightly over letting us get a lot of him in his birthday suit. He slept the first bit of the session, but decided he'd much rather be aware of what portraits I was taking. Apparently he'd decided that he was going to rule out any possibility of his Mom & Dad having some nakey shots to eventually share in his high school year book. (he'll be diassapointed that I did get his little naked rump...but Mom & Dad won't be!)

His Dad may have set a world record for the longest continual singing of a lullaby ... it was so sweet!

Congratulations, Trisha & Kyle! And thank you again for the honor of capturing this moment for you. I was thrilled to also get to meet Grandma & Grandpa ... it's always so fun to get to know such wonderful families. You all are so warm and loving; Jack's one lucky little kiddo!

NEW designs AND MandeeFranee Designs Giveaway!

2010-08-02T15:24:00.001-04:00

Oh my goodness...what an adorably BRILLIANT idea! I just discovered these thanks to The Maternal Lens, which is one of my favorite blogs. Gotta check 'em out! Custom made friends for your lens...perfect for sessions with kiddos! {The Owl and Peacock are my favs}

She's doing a giveaway! Check out her blog for details,and be sure to mention my name when you leave a comment!

http://mandeefranee.blogspot.com/2010/07/500-fans-means-its-giveaway-time.html

Happy Shopping!

"What I like about you" 40x40 Gallery Wrap Collage
{45 or 25 images, background color can be changed}
Works great as a book cover, thank-you card...or printed smaller in a set of three to really show off more favs!
Looking for an anniversary gift? If you have the digital negatives from your wedding {and your photographer's permission!!!} I can make this for you from those.

Five new Calendar Designs!
Printed 12 x 18

August is my FAVORITE month...so to celebrate I have some new products!! I'll be posting more examples over the next few weeks... hope you enjoy 'em as much as I do!

Special Offer!! {PhotoVision}

2010-07-29T19:40:00.000-04:00

OK My fellow Click-a-holics...if you haven't heard about PhotoVision, or you have heard but haven't yet bought it, I would seriously take advantage of this offer! I've done these the past 2 years; they ROCK! {I actually look forward to these more than my chick flicks off my Netflix queue!} If you aren't currently receiving PhotoVision, now is your chance to get this fantastic educational series at an awesome price. From now 'til Sept. 30th, PhotoVision is 70% off - just $39 for the entire year when you use the promo code: PVFAN.

Check PhotoVision out for yourself by going to: http://fansof.photovisionvideo.com/Melissa/039602
{You can click on this blog title "Special Offer!! {PhotoVision}" - it's linked directly there for you!}

Enjoy!!! Smiles, Missie

Niki & Joshua

2010-07-15T21:48:00.000-04:00

This incredibly sweet couple is celebrating their 1st wedding anniversary!

Niki & Joshua met up with me Saturday at Sandy Basin, and I really hope I get the chance to work with them again; they are so sweet, and so cute to watch together. (ah, love....)

I thought this was a cute little flirty pic :-)

Congratulations, you two! And many, many more years of smiling, laughing, and loving to you...

Jonathan {in Daddy's boots...}

2010-07-15T01:43:00.000-04:00

Oh, goodness...is he adorable, or what?! Jonathan celebrated his 3rd Birthday, and to mark the occassion I got to capture some of his smiles on Saturday as he dressed up like his Dad...

...he was just chit-chatting away to me...{conversations with 3-yr olds are just the best, aren't they? hehehe}

Happy 3rd Birthday, Jonathan!

Ha! Too cute....as I was starting to do this blog tonight my doorbell rang; it was Jonathan and his sister, Annie, with a batch of homemade cookies for me!! Soooooo delicious, and even better since they stayed to enjoy them with me :-) Thanks, guys!! What a special surprise - totally put a smile on my face!

{All-American} Smiles

2010-07-14T00:36:00.000-04:00

In honor of the 4th of July, this past Saturday I shot a series of patriotic-themed sessions over at the Sandy Basin Community Center. First up was this adorable trio - Katie, Daniel, and Nathan! {miss Katie definetly knew how to work the camera!!}

This was my first time doing mini-sessions...and I am thrilled with how they went! I was nervous that I was going to feel like I didn't have the chance to really get to know my families the way I normally do with my full sessions...but these three were so full of personality, it made the session go super smooth. I'll certainly be offering more mini-session events in the future :-)

You three were so much fun! Thanks for coming out to make me giggle on Saturday morning :-)

You & Me & Baby makes...six! {The Boyle Family}

2010-07-08T01:55:00.000-04:00

Kick-starting the 4th of July weekend for me was a fun session with the Boyle family...who'll soon be welcoming their newest member! {I think the odds of another adorable blonde are quite good, don't 'cha think?}

So with three adorable kiddos and one more on the way, hangin' out with Mom & Dad at home was the perfect way to capture the fun of being a family....

after measuring Mom's belly, out came the paint! Baby Boyle {and Mom!} was a great sport in letting Harry, Amelia & Charlotte have a little fun "decorating"...

but of course the fun couldn't just stop on Mom's belly....

{oh goodness I hope this one pops up in a high school yearbook years from now!}

{to the neat-nics gasping, I should point out that it's all washable paint and no couches or clothes were ruined in the making of these memories...hehehe...}

You all are great! Gallery soon to follow! Thanks again!!

Chicago!

2010-07-06T18:17:00.000-04:00

Ahhhhhh.....vacation! Gotta love it!

I get to share so many amazing family moments with you all, so I thought this time I'd turn the tables and share some of mine with you. But before I post any of the family moments, I wanted to share a few pics from the city of Chicago...

You can't go to the windy city without checking out the Sear's Tower. {I forget what it's actually called now since Sears no longer owns it...it's just not the same calling it anything different, anyway.} Way up at the tippy-top of the 103rd floor you can peek out and down at the city. {of course Mike and I had to play the part of the "cheesy tourists" and lie flat on the glass and get pics of each other looking like we were falling!}I snagged this pic of my fellow tourists in one of the overlooks.

" Mike and 'The Bean' "

This was my hubby Mike's first time to Chicago; both of our first trips to Millenium Park {I love that bean!}

a local artist painting "the bean"...

my favorite part of this day! It was sweltering hot, so getting to splash around with my 2-yr old niece was the best...but it was a great place to people-watch, too...

" Lunch Break "

This guy was standing off on the opposite end of one of the fountains, obviously just cooling off on his lunch break. With all the hubbub going on around him,the contrast of this moment of him just off in his own little world stood out to me while I was there, so I had to capture it...

Thinking back, I kick myself for caring about having to walk around soaking wet the rest of the day; I only got my feet wet - TOTALLY should have just run under like these kids!

Carla & Bowe {with baby Grant}

2010-07-01T19:59:00.000-04:00

The past two weeks I've been traveling around catching up with friends and family back east. For the first part of my trip, I accompanied my hubby to Washington, D.C., while he was at a week-long conference. In addition to being able to visit all my favorite art museums again {I used to live in the area when I was fresh out of WVU} I got to link back up with Carla and Bowe for their maternity portraits!

I first met Carla and Bowe here at Irwin; they were actually my first engagement session! A few months later I did Carla's Bridal Portraits...so this was extra special for me that timing worked out perfectly for me to be able to get to D.C. to follow the next chapter of their love story.

Apparently they didn't remember to "Kiss the Coyote" on their way off Irwin when they moved - {for those of you not familiar with Ft Irwin, there's a huge coyote sculpture at the front gate. The theory is that if you kiss it after exiting post for the final time, you'll never be stationed here again} - they'll be moving back here after Grant is born! Selfishly I'm really excited about that...it seems like everyone I know is getting orders and moving out, so it'll be great to have a familiar face coming back...and I'll get to meet Grant! whoo-hooo!!

This was taken at the beautiful little church across the street from their apartment. As an artist, I really love getting to work in new placed; since 95% of my sessions are done locally here on Fort Irwin I really appreciated the contrast the city offers. Going from the clean-lined & modern apartment building to the quaint and cozy church was so great!!

Carla & Bowe- thank you so much again for allowing me the honor of continuing your love story!

Desert Warriors {1916th Support Battalion Change of Command Ceremony}

2010-06-10T15:05:00.000-04:00

I love all the tradition and pride that is part of a Change of Command Ceremony, and it was truly an honor to capture this moment for LTC Bill Davis and his family...

As they celebrated his Command of the 1916th Support Battalion here at Fort Irwin, it was so touching to see the pride on his family's face. {I caught Zach's tears while his Dad was thanking his family during his farewell speech}

For those of you who haven't been to a Change of Command, the passing of the Guidon {below} symbolizes the transition. Here the CSM of the Battalion passed the Guidon to the out-going Commander, LTC. Davis, who then passes it to the Brigade Commander, COL Gaffney. COL Gaffney then passes the Guidon to the new Battalion Commander, LTC Kalamaris.

Congratulations on all your success here at Fort Irwin! Thank you so much for allowing me to be a part of this special day...I've loved getting to know your family over the past two years, and will miss seeing you all around post. Please keep in touch!! Enjoy your new adventures, and safe travels as you head to D.C.

Welcome to Fort Irwin, LTC Kalamaris!