Engagement Sessions- What Defines You

The engagement session is such an important element in developing trust and rapport with your wedding photographer. It is also exciting for us because under the right circumstances, it is an opportunity to relax and have fun and get to know more about our bride and groom

before the wedding day.

What determines then the right circumstances. That is where the couple plays such an important part. The right circumstance is different for every couple because we all have different levels of comfort. While one couple may want to roll in the waves together on a public beach, another couple may not feel all together comfortable showing too much PDA.

The engagement session has evolved in the past decade. In the past and for some it remains a portrait session with smiling faces cheesing at the camera lens and all the elements of traditional photography applied.

Nowadays however the engagement session has taken on a whole new meaning for the contemporary couple. I have had some odd requests but
I find those are the ones that ultimately capture the very essence of the two people I am shooting and more importantly the relationship they share.

To begin, choose a theme or location that says something about you as a couple. Many couples met because of shared interests or an Alma mater. That is a good place to start. Explore what you enjoy doing together. Make it fun and uniquely you. Is there a special place that you share? It could be the place he proposed or your first date. Maybe there is a carnival in town, or the Panthers are playing a home game. Maybe you've just noticed how beautiful the sun sets on the water as you passover Lake Norman. Note the time and then call me to schedule your shoot.

Call ahead to see if there are any restrictions or permits that we will have to acquire. If you don't feel comfortable making contact with the location then I would be happy to arrange the details.

Make certain you will feel comfortable enough at the location
to be yourself. Everything sounds good in theory but is it workable for you? Maybe you saw some shots of a friend taken at the same location but you know you can't do exactly what you saw in those images that made you love them. You know if you are shy and you don't like people watching you. You know if your fiance is reserved and wouldn't like to be the center of attention in a public place. So don't inflict that stress on yourself. Find a place that is more private and better suited to you.

Lastly, choose clothing that is appropriate to the location but with a touch of your own creativity. Most times we can modify ideas to accommodate what you have on so don't let that limit you. Determine what inspires you first, find a perfect location and then we can work out the wardrobe later. Sometimes as woman we start with the clothes and the shoes first.

But whatever you choose, make it an idea that reflects who you are as a couple and offers chances for us to go out together to have some fun. While we are laughing, there will be so many opportunities for me to capture your relationship. I'll just be along for the ride!

The Freedom From Shot Lists

Everyone from the bride and groom to the wedding coordinator wants your wedding to go off without a hitch. Because I play such an important role in the use of your time on your wedding day, I recognize that it is part my responsibility to make the photography at least flow smoothly.

Often times we will ask for a shot list if we feel that it will help us in the end to facilitate some very tricky maneuvering. And there are many weddings where a shot list is completely necessary because of divorce or family dynamics. My personal preference is to have a shot list for the formal portraits. Every family is different and some family members are no longer with us, therefore the standard shot list of family groups and sub-groups is necessary to coordinate the formal portraits in a respectful and timely manner.

You also want to inform your photographer of important traditions you may be paying homage to, special objects of affection that you may have with you that day or special relationships that you want to respect.

If you are hiring your photographer to tell the story of your day as it unfolds however, the photographer must be free to capture anything that draws their attention or spurs their emotion because the humanness of those moments are the ones you will cherish the most. It is after all the shared human experience that we are capturing.

Some couples just want a photographer on their wedding day to document the day but its my desire to not only document your day but your experience. When looking at photographers make sure you hire one whose photos excite your emotions and make you feel but also a photographer that moves you. You are not only hiring a person with a specific skill set or talent but also a person in which you must be able to bond. Trust is of utmost importance so you must have a rapport to build on. You should feel at ease in their presence and enjoy them as much as they enjoy you.

In the end, any portrait artist can paint a portrait and any person with a camera can release a shutter. Look for the artist who can capture emotion in the portrait and the photographer who can engage you in such a way that you are certain that you can work with. Then allow them to gain freedom for their art through trust and respect. You will be surprised at what the freedom of creativity can produce.

The Wedding Wire

Photoplay Photography's Wedding Wire Preferred Rating!

See More in the Bride's Book Magazine

We are always so excited to be featured in the Bride's Book Magazine. The magazine is a wonderful resource with alot of information and inspiration.

New Packaging Materials

I am so excited that our new packaging materials will be arriving soon! In an ever going effort to remain current and to provide my clients with quality products, the new packaging is beautiful. Branding and designing has been an education and a test of patience but the end result will be so worth it!

Behind The Lens...

For most of us picture taking is a point and shoot exercise in getting our kids to smile or the dog to sit still while we try to put a Santa hat on his head. And for the most part that's me too when I am not working although my children may beg to differ.

When I have been in trusted however to capture a family's memories, illuminate the smile of a beautiful bride, catch the enthusiasm of a graduating Senior or the innocence and sweetness of a newborn...that is not a commitment I take lightly. So there is an intensity and focus that transports me when I am working. Not only can shooting a portrait session be a lot of fun but it can be freeing as you explore your creativity.

However, I often create shot lists or an idea bank prior to the shoot just so I can be free to concentrate on the science behind it all. There are so many considerations going through a photographer's mind while our subjects smile and pose. There are numbers and charts and graphs and joggers and cars running into our frames. Sometimes it seems near impossible to get the shot we want with the right light, a natural pose and interesting details.

The trick to it all is the interaction...as clients no longer are mere studies of subjects in light but become friends and of a sort family... that you involve and engage. It really is one of the best parts of photography for me...

Assuring Your Photographer Understands Your Style

Photography is subjective. The concept alone conjures different ideas for different people. To make sure you're on the
same page with your photographer, I suggest looking through current
magazines and photography books with your photographer. Sitting
down together and discussing style is sometimes not enough. If you
want to make certain that you have related your wishes to your photographer and that he or she has a clear understanding of your
wedding day photography, this is a wonderful exercise. I keep on
hand in my office not only contemporary magazines and photography
books but also ones that are decades old. Although dresses and decor become outdated, I find that a classic look and elegant styling never go out of fassion. There is a reason
we love those classic images. What better way to find a common
ground between the classic and the contemporary.

Project Wedding

TRASH THE DRESS....SERIOUSLY?

It was an idea that had its roots in Europe and took some parts of the US by storm a few years ago. I rarely come across a bride in my own practice that would wantonly destroy her wedding gown but for that select few, we can TRASH IT!

To trash it means just that...rip it, tear it, burn it, get it dirty... roll in the mud, wade in the creek, jump in the ocean or ride your horse across the fields. Whatever you do just don't be concerned about salvaging the dress.

TrashTheDress.com says its about the creation and not the destruction. I love that because most times the dress won't be used to pass down to our daughters like tradition supposed. This idea is not for the faint of heart and is best suited for that not so traditional bride that would prefer the stunningly, creative images rather than the dress hanging in the closet.

But if you do want to save your dress but still have the fun of creating some spectacular images, one of my brides had the best idea. She purchased two dresses...the one she wore on her wedding day and the one we trashed. Maybe taking advantage of the fact that its hard to eliminate the choices of gowns down to just one...so loving two may not be a such bad thing!

Premier Bride Magazine Feature

Premier Bride featuring Amber and Brandon Lowe

Congratulations to

a very loving couple!

Wedding Day Timeline

Recently I was reminded of the importance of having a reasonable and working itinerary for your wedding day. As we all know, things can sound good in theory but its putting these ideas into practice, that can be problematic.

One of the biggest problems that we as photographers run into on the wedding day is not enough time. That can happen because of delays of course but more often than not, its because not enough time has been allotted. Granted no one wants the bride to get dressed and sit around uncomfortable or wrinkling the dress or even break with tradition and see one another before the ceremony. The problem is however that given the rules of certain churches and venue sites, many times we are given only a short amount of time to take all the family portraits after the ceremony. Add to that any delay in getting the family together, signing the marriage certificate or the like and now we are running a race to get at minimum priority shots to say nothing of any creative or artistic work.

The bottom line is this...I think its important to know exactly what your priorities are on your wedding day. If your photography is a top priority than by all means you should allow not only enough time for your photographer to get your family shots but also enough time to creatively capture your day. If the rules of your venue site prohibit photography beforehand or limit the time afterward, than discuss different options with your photographer. If its a race to get to the reception or if your focus is drawn away from your photos, than you may be missing some glorious shots that your photographer may have otherwise captured for you.

Ettiquette (Serving Your Vendors)

I am asked this questions frequently. "Is is necessary or even expected that I serve dinner to my vendors?" Let me begin by saying that (in my opinion) any vendor that "expects" to be served dinner at "your" wedding...doesn't fully understand his or her place at your wedding. We are not invited guests. We are there to work. That is our purpose but many of your vendors will be with you for most of the day. So although I do believe that it is inappropriate for vendors to expect to be fed, I do believe it is a very nice consideration on the part of the bride and groom. If it comes down to a matter of additional meals or going over budget, then by no means should the couple feel obligated to feed their vendors.

Most of the time, we are included in the seating or told to enjoy the buffet but a few months ago, I was very touched by one of my families when they invited me to their table. We are often included at dinner but I must say that I was sincerely touched by their graciousness and hospitality...And I must say that most families treat us like friends instead of hired vendors but this family touched me in such away that I think I will always remember that one gesture.

Ultimately, it comes down to what you prefer and there really is no "proper" ettiquette. I can say that when we are included in the meal, we are always very appreciative and very grateful.

Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep

Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep

I am so proud to be a part of this wonderful non-profit organization. This is a group of volunteer, professional photographers that serve the community in a most intimate and inspiring way...in fact many like myself feel that this is a caring ministry.

First let me tell a bit about what we do but more information can be found on the national website. There you can find out how to donate, become a member or read some very inspiring stories. Volunteer photographers are called at a moments notice to come to the hospital often in the middle of the night to take photographs of an enfant that has passed away or a baby that is failing. It is a tragic turn of events for these families. This service is offered to those families who would like to have photographs taken of their precious little one.

Our task is a nurturing and loving one so we make contact with the family, introduce ourselves and then begin taking very intimate and precious photographs of their little one and their family if they like. These images are often the only existing photographs of these small souls. It has become not only a ministry to me but a blessing as well.

I am blessed beyond measure when I have an opportunity to hold these tiny angels...meet them face to face and then to take darling portraits of their tiny faces, their little toes and feet, their Mommy's and Daddy's hands as they hold their baby's fingers in their own. No greater task brings me such peace and comfort. I am honored that the families allow us into their lives if only for a moment. My prayer has always been that the photographs will bring that same comfort and peace to the families.

To find out more about this service, please visit the Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep website at http://www.NILMDTS.com

Concept Photography

Several years ago I took a workshop that opened a whole new world to me and my photography. Because we all can get complacent in our work, I think inspiration especially in my field is invaluable. Without it your images would be a little stale.

The workshop was taught by a colleague in San Fransisco and to say I was intrigued by his invitation was true but more over I was a little concerned too. I am a portrait photographer and I am a wedding photographer. That's what I knew and that's what I was comfortable with regarding my photography. Photo-journalism, documentary and candids are all part of an intricate combination that come together to make for the best wedding photos. So to learn more about a subtle style that I may be over looking was a little intimidating and a little scary.

I went and of course was in awe of the images that we were able to achieve in the workshop. "Concept" photography is just that...to create, design or conceive of a concept that creates a story for your couples. Often times a couple for example want to do some interesting shots for their engagement portraits. In most cases though they may not have an idea for what they actually want and even still no real idea of how to achieve it. This is where concept photography becomes so much fun and is highly rewarding to the couple because these images will be unique and original to them. For example, one of my couples who wanted to shoot a concept wanted to be Bonnie and Clyde without all the bad stuff. It was the concept of the old style clothing and the old car of course so that's where we started creating our concept design. With a little leg work and a little persuasion I think between the two of us (my bride and I) we found a gentleman that would let us use his car and the clothing was easily available on line almost like costumes.

In the end we were successful in taking some amazing shots and these images were priceless to them because they were unique to them and captured something fun in their relationship.
Let me just say that the options and ideas are limitless. Its something that you may want to consider if you as a couple are adventurous and want something completely unique and different. Some concepts are easy to put into motion...others take a little ingenuity and creativity. But ultimately the images and the FUN are well worth the effort!!!

Clothing For Portrait Sessions

What to wear for your photo shoot?
I get asked this question all the time and was asked again today by a couple to email them my thoughts about their attire for their engagement session this weekend. My response came from an article that I wrote many years ago but still rings true today. So I am reposting this addition because it is relavent then and now with a few new thoughts. I hope that this information helps anyone who is considering their clothing for their next photo session. When I first started shooting "concept" photography, it became a topic of some consideration. Everyone wants to look their best for their portraits but remember its really a matter of personal style and should be in keeping with the look you hope to achieve. There are a few factors that I think are important to consider regardless if your session is a studio or on location shoot. To begin, color is a very important consideration. Not only is black classic and slimming it also photographs well on dark backgrounds. I also like burgundy, grey and deep red. On the other hand, denim, pastels, and whites work better with light backgrounds and with most outdoor settings.
Keep in mind however your "good" colors. For example, golden skin tones do not wear shades of blue well, nor do blue skin tones wear oranges or yellows well. I have also found that brunettes photograph beautifully in white and blondes, in black. The contrast can be striking. Hands down white or off-white looks best on a beach location. Breezy, summer dresses are lovely unless the wind catches the dress and billows you like you have gained 40 pounds. I have always found linens to photograph extremely well on the beach. The difficulty is trying to pair an ensemble for a couple. Its never the best idea to be identical... although I have seen it done and it can produce good shots. Clothing with texture is always beautiful in black and white. My best suggestion is to avoid stripes, polka dots, distracting patterns, t-shirts, and t-shirts with decals unless you are both sports fans and support the same team....if not that may be tricky....

As for the style of clothing, its best to not be too trendy unless you are doing portfolio work. Long sleeves are best because bare arms usually distract from the beauty of the face and on a male can change a portrait to a snapshot in one swift move. You might consider bringing a change of wardrobe for different poses as well. However, the key here is to wear something that's comfortable. If you are not at ease with what you are wearing, this will show on your face and will completely take your attention away from the shoot.Keep jewelry to a minimum. Metals and watches tend to create unwanted reflections. If you wear earrings, keep them dignified. If you have more than one ear piercing, then for a formal portrait, wear only one set in the main opening. If you are going for an edgy look, by all means keep all your piercing. Same for tattoos....cover up for a formal session or if your session is an editorial of you and the work you have had done on your body....then show them off!!!Makeup and hair is another important consideration. Some young women nowadays do not wear much makeup and that is a good thing. Although a bit of foundation, powder and blush can do much to soften your look in your portraits. Too much applied over acne or redness can accentuate dryness and make the area look much worse.Dressing children tends to break most of these rules. They can get by with stripes and polka dots when we can not. Contrasting patterns can be adorable on a group of siblings. My favorite shots however have the children of a family...all in the same mid-tones or white.. only dressed differently. For example, a little sister in a quaint antique white dress, her brother in linen slacks and shirt in the same shade and the oldest sister in matching skirt and blouse. Let the clothing demonstrate their personalities.Most important to remember however, is to be comfortable, relax and have fun, smile and laugh!!!! If that shows through in your portraits it may not even matter what you are wearing....

My Not So Typical Vacation Photos

o
















I recently went to Europe. Exciting enough as it is, I took up a challenge from an Italian friend of mine. His challenge...to come back with the "not so typical" tourist photos. Well that proved more difficult than I could have imagined. Everything in Europe seems to be just about post card perfect so I found myself looking beyond the obvious. Most of these photos are mere pieces of a whole and may be completely unrecognizable to any one but me...some are picture post cards after all I was a tourist.

The Question of Sparklers

For many couples, the departure from the ceremony or from the reception presents an opportunity for some very memorable shots. The use of sparklers can help to create dynamic photos and incredibly interesting images that will add to the visual interest of a finished product such as the album. Through the years, I have been asked repeatedly about the safety of sparklers and to what if any damage may be caused to the bride's dress or veil. Several years ago, I did a test of typical fabrics that may be effected to determine if any damage would result from an ember that may fall from a sparkler. I tested silks, satins, rayon blends, charmeuse, organza, shantung, chiffon, tulle and lace. Held at a reasonable distance to the materials, the falling embers had little or no effect on any of the materials. As a result, I have felt comfortable with actually recommending the use of sparklers to my clients. That was until this happened!!



If you look closely, you can see the glow from the ember that is burning a hole in Randi's dress! The ember is stuck in a fold as she runs under the arch of sparklers. Having decided it would be easier to go barefoot through the gauntlet of friends and family, she is also oblivious to the burning ember on the ground before her. Two strides later, she steps on the burning piece of metal.

As always, the purpose of this post is to not sway opinion but to merely educate. Will I continue to recommend the use of sparklers? Absolutely....I adore the fun and animated images that the use of sparklers help create. I would have it though that couples have all the information available so they can make an informed decision about the potential hazards. If you do intend on using sparklers, I would recommend the 3 foot sparklers and not the small ones. I would also recommend a comfortable distance between you and your guests. Finally, I think this photo is self actuating....shoes definitely and to be extra cautious around gowns that have folds in the fabric or the bustle because the burning embers can get caught in them. Left to fall away, the small embers cause relatively little damage... if any.

Dedication To Our Fallen Officers

I want to take a moment to pay my own special tribute to our two local police officers slain in the line of duty here in Charlotte last week. I spent many years as a public servant and some of those years as a Police Officer in South Carolina. Those years remain the most fulfilling years of my life and my heart will forever remain aligned with the men and women in blue and black, grey and tan. ( God Bless them every one) For many years I led our department in “Project Blue Lights.” This program honors fallen officers at Christmas with blue Christmas lights to remind us that our local law enforcement officers are our quiet heroes. It seems even now, not enough. Never enough to say “Thank you for your service to us.”


"The Final Inspection"

The policeman stood and faced his God, which must always come to pass. He hoped his shoes were shining just as brightly as his brass.
"Step forward now, policeman. How shall I deal with you? Have you always turned the other cheek? To My Church have you been true?"
The policeman squared his shoulders and said, "No Lord. I guess I ain't. Because those who carry badges can't always be a saint.
I've had to work most Sundays, and at times my talk was rough... and sometimes I've been violent because the streets are awful tough.
But I never took a penny that wasn't mine to keep... though I worked a lot of overtime when the bills got just too steep.
And I never passed a cry for help, though at times I shook with fear. And sometimes, God forgive me... I've wept unmanly tears.
I know I don't deserve a place among the people here. They never wanted me around except to calm their earthly fear.
If you've a place for me here, Lord.... it need not be too grand. I never expected or had too much. But if you don't... I'll understand."
There was silence all around the throne where the saints had often trod as the policeman waited quietly for the judgment of his God.
"Step forward now, policeman. You've borne your burdens well. Come walk a beat on heaven's streets. You've done your time in hell."
–Author unknown

Does Traditional Photography Still Have Its Place

It can be overwhelming for couples as they try to determine what style or type of photography they want to use to capture their wedding day. Traditional photography started getting a bad rap a few years back when suddenly the catch phrase of the day was "photojournalism".... I still meet with clients who are confused about the differences and who are being sold a "product" that they don't fully understand. I suggest anyone considering styles of photography to take some time to investigate their differences. In some cases I look at a photographer's portfolio and find that although they call themselves a photojournalist, the style is more reflective of candids.

No wonder it can be so confusing for clients who are looking to capture not only the subtle nuisances of their day but to also have wonderful portraits of their families and bridal party. This is my personal take on the question of photography style when it comes to shooting a wedding. First of all, it takes a special type of photographer to cover a wedding thoroughly and to be personable and responsive to family and guests. Many photographers radiate to a certain style like a physician to a specialty. If a die cast photojournalist was asked to create a studio portrait, they may not have the skills necessary. I believe a wedding can be captured in a variety of styles that meet the needs of not only the bride and groom but their families as well. Couples gravitate to the documentary and candid and grandparents often want to see smiling faces. My philosophy incorporates a mix of styles that can document objectively and narratively but also use basic elements of light, symmetry and composition.

I get many clients who after reading all the latest magazine articles and looking at photographer portfolios stills say..... "I just want beautiful pictures." There are many traditionalists and many contemporary non-conformists. Its the photographer's job to listen to what types of photographs spur feelings and elicit emotions in the hearts of their clients. I shot this couple's wedding a while back and what I found not only from listening to them, but also deemed from their personalities was the need for simplicity and fun. Shelley and Hank's photographs reflect a classic traditional style yet they have many photographs that reflect a more candid, photojournalist approach. Shelley epitomizes grace and elegance. Throughout their day, I was able to get many candid, unsolicited shots as well as more formal posed shots. I had opportunity to be creative and to be inventive while being unobtrusive.