Angel Gray Photography - Melbourne Florida Photographer

Ashlen's Senior Portraits

2010-08-29T01:00:00.001-07:00

i LOVE senior pictures! I really do. It might be because I wish I was 18 again. Or at least looked 18 again? Minus the glow-in-the-dark blond hair... Either way, it's so fun. I met Ashlen who was on vacation here from Colorado (which is funny because I took Woody's senior portraits in Colorado -who is from here.) She was staying at the Cocoa Beach Surf Studios and I loved shooting there! I do apologize for the lagging blog entries but we are about to launch the new site so I keep thinking if I wait a few more days I can post these entries to the new site and then we had some issues (sorry if you couldn't get on the sites the last couple days!) You can even see here that the image borders aren't loading in - weird. So, maybe one or two more entries here until the new Blogsite is all ready to go live! So exciting...
Back to Ashlen, she is super smiley and could barely not smile even while trying which I think is wonderful and adorable. Her dad is an awesome guy who scheduled this whole thing for his daughter (figuring it out from Colorado weeks before they came) knowing how much it would mean to her. I was booked (for the maximum sessions I'll accept each week) but then couldn't resist captain kirk and a senior session with Ashlen. So glad it worked out!

Her cute brother too!! Love it!
I'm on my way up to Ohio tomorrow to photograph my brother's newborn baby! I'll be working while I'm gone though so next up here is the Spacht-Levinsky wedding! (I did not look up that spelling guys so let me know if I've made a mistake!)

UCF College of Medicine - White Coat Ceremony

2010-08-22T21:46:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of returning to the UCF College of Medicine a few weeks ago to photograph their White Coat Ceremony. I hadn't been since they moved into the new building at Lake Nona in Orlando. Last time I shot there was Spring 2009 and I only heard talk of the plans for Lake Nona. I got involved with the college through a friend of mine -Marcy. I had photographed her family pictures and they were looking for a photographer to really capture something special at the college. Not just an event, but history, excitement... dreams becoming reality. That of course sounded interesting to me. (Oh and I also grew up a few doors down from Marcy and she had the awful job of babysitting me sometimes!) --Her family will actually be up on the blog later this week! Oh my gosh her kids are CRAZY CUTE. You must stay tuned.

Here's the thing about this school. Everyone I've been in contact with there is clearly passionate about the college and dedicated way beyond their job description.

Oh and the building is nice. Really nice.

I think this girl is a real student even though she appears to be a spokes model.
Super sweet smile right?

There's Marcy on the left hanging out with the other smarty pants doctors. If only they knew how smart a photographer has to be... they would be so jealous. They would quit their jobs right away and become photographers just to experience the depth of knowledge.
Or maybe not. Whichever. We wouldn't want all the docs quitting on us.

Eager new students - first day of school - again!
I am such a Grey's Anatomy fan, this is so Pilot Episode.
Seriously, looking through the images I realized that most of the pre-ceremony time I have guys talking to girls... I could have put up a whole montage of that and then realized I should be nice and not.

So here is one with just a guy and no girl. But it's cute how he's trying out his mail box.

I want a t-shirt. You never know, my kids might go there.
Of course they probably will because they are brilliant.

Here's another nice person, Wandy. And her nice friend whose name I don't know yet but appears to be a doctor.

Oh and I forgot to mention that the night before this I caught the stomach flu my family was passing around! I was so afraid I would be sick for the event! I figured though that I could ask someone for some kind of anti-nausea if I had to -right?! Well, I wasn't 100% better, but I just made sure to stay on an empty stomach until after the event so I wouldn't toss my cookies in the auditorium. There is seriously no room for being sick when you have an event to shoot but I would never cancel unless I was physically unable to look through my camera and click the shutter. Or at least click the shutter and point the camera in the right direction.

The main event above is the White Coat Ceremony where all the students in the new class (#2 to be exact) will receive their first white coat. It's special. Parents come.

There were opportunities to raise your hand. Brave I tell you.
But they all did it because they are med students.

And they all got a White Coat.

And they all had proud families and friends - my favorite part!

More nice people, Dr. German (the dean) and Lorraine the Event Coordinator.
Dr. German: Lorraine, what a beautiful job!
Lorraine: Oh go on.

ta da! Read more on the College of Medicine and the impressive staff and faculty here.

The Zivoder Family

2010-08-22T12:35:00.000-07:00

The Zivoder family was here on vacation from Ohio when we met to take some family portraits at Ryckman Park in Melbourne Beach. These kids are so adorable it is crazy. They have the sweetest little features and are obviously very happy children. It can be easy to stress your kids out before a photo shoot... and then get less than desirable behavior out of them during the shoot. I am guilty of this myself! But I could tell that even though Gina was very excited to have their portraits taken, she did not put any pressure on her family and thanks to that, they responded quite well! It's funny that I had just been up in Ohio/Michigan when we met. Gina's accent was the strongest I have ever heard though! It seemed like they were having a great vacation here and hopefully easy travel home!

see what I mean?

This is so hilarious to me... they went back for more treats and just stood there salivating. Treats can sometimes be key to your children's photography session. I prefer fruit snacks because I am not technically offering your kids candy and because they disappear quickly from their mouths. Of course I always ask first and would never give fruit snacks to babes!

We stopped at the beach for a few more...

Maternity Marathon with Chad and Khara!

2010-08-20T06:08:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure where to start. I'm going to be wordy on this one so get your coffee. I just have a lot to say. First of all, this picture above might be my favorite maternity ever, but only if one of my other favorites below don't win out in the end. Oh and I might have to start offering sessions in Ohio... travel fees apply. Also, my new website/blog will be done soon and I tested the blog. Thanks to my testing the new blog I now hate this one. My images here look like thumbnails. Can't wait for the big switcheroo!

I had the opportunity to shoot pregnancy photography for my brother and sister in law last month in Ohio. The trip is part of why I am a week behind right now (but only because it happened right after my family moved - and turned our lives upside down in the process.) It was of course worth it because family is a big deal (no pun intended.)

I was so impressed by the Ohio corn fields we set out to find the perfect one. Instead of the normal maternity session, we took a day trip up to Battle Creek MI to visit family and stopped for "mini sessions" throughout the day in different locations. You've never seen so many belly shots but it was lots of fun! Our first stop was the "perfect corn field." We spotted the small farm with a tomato stand out front and decided we had the most unbelievable tomato craving. After stopping for tomatoes, we had an equally irresistable urge to use the farm for our maternity shoot. The farm lady was super nice and didn't mind at all. She even helped us out with some props which you'll see later. I might have to make that one the cover image now that I think about it.
Thank you farm lady.

I love the old look of this image. It reminds me of pictures my mom pulls out of her ceder chest from her childhood. Chad and Khara are not actually out of the 50's. But Chad's not that far off.

They aren't telling us the baby's name and they've been calling her "ladybug" until she's born. My son thinks that's her name and doesn't even realize how odd a name it would be.
(My apologies if you named your daughter ladybug.)

The special "something" that made this corn field stand out from the pack is the row of wildflowers (my brother kept naming them but I can't remember what they're called), then row of nothing (otherwise known as the you-stand-here-row) and then the field. Ahhh perfection.

Notice to all beautiful pregnant women: NOT FAIR. I gained anywhere from 30-45lbs every time and looked like a very ugly cow. Not even like the cute ones you notice while you're driving and should be watching the road.

(Jenn inspired.)

My brother being the funny guy. He is that guy.

I heart gravel. We all like different things right?

This is the funniest picture of all time, so funny it looks posed. Explanation: I never shoot in mid day but we had no choice. SO, we were waiting for the clouds that were passing by occasionally before we actually snapped the shot. My brother is watching for the next cloud while Khara is attempting not to pass out. It was awesome.

Same as the first one above but in full color. I love this so much I might hang it in my house, is that weird?

In Ohio, people often hang out under adorable little apple trees. We can do this for your session for the small fee of a round trip ticket to Ohio. Oh wait this was actually in MI.

There are also very huge piles of cut trees. Actually only in my aunts back yard but that is a long story involving my aunt, a pond, a lake and the state of Michigan. If you need firewood this winter or any time in the next ten years, please call her.

Seriously Khara you are smokin.

This is the second funniest picture of all time but only because I kept saying "Kiss her temple" and they kept hearing me say "Kiss the nipple."

After this a muskrat tried to bite Khara's foot off. It was so cool except I totally missed it. I secretly wanted it to happen again so I could see. But not really get her foot. You know?

What a fun day! Thanks Chad and Khara for having me be a part of this precious season in your life and for the fun times we had together! --Newborn images coming soon!

p.s. My brother has finally stopped whining about Ohio and embraced the farmer within. His tomato plant reaches up to the second floor.

p.p.s. Davis had his first hair cut at 2.5 years old. And we only did the bangs because we love his hair and refuse to cut it no matter how many times my dad asks.

what boy doesn't love a good crash?

Derek and Marie | Crowne Plaza Wedding

2010-08-15T22:22:00.000-07:00

I shot Derek and Marie's wedding a few weeks ago at the Crowne Plaza. It was a morning wedding with a beautiful (and yummy) brunch served afterward under a tent out on the ocean deck. I love red so you're going to see lots of full color images here because I can't handle losing the red - most of the time. I thought the added greens made it so fresh and fun. Derek and Marie were a beautiful couple and so so sweet as well. They seemed so grateful for the day. Although they had been previously married, they had never had a wedding day and it was obvious this was a long awaited event. I especially loved the speech they gave to their guests and Marie thanking Derek's family for the wonderful man he is. Or, I think she said gentleman, which is even better. They have a beautiful daughter who you'll see in these pics. The hotel even brought a crib outside for her when she was getting sleepy. The cake was from Publix, and seriously Publix, you're good. The band was out of Orlando, called Cocobean. Obviously a steel drum Carribean duo, they were great! I have seen some problematic times occur when people here hire vendors out of Orlando but this was not one of them (and neither was last weekend with Lee's Florist - Oh MY, but we'll get to that...) This band is professional, prompt, talented and offers a very positive atmosphere to your party. The lead singer just has a naturally sunny disposition! Marie had a super cute "going away" dress which she found in Korea where the couple is currently stationed. There was a little snafu at the end when the limo (out of Orlando I might add) was so late that Marie and Derek had to drive themselves to the cruise terminal instead of the original plan to ride with friends and family (and their photographer.) No wedding is without a hitch though and I'm sure they had a great time on their honeymoon. Congratulations Marie and Derek!

love the fans (and the bracelet too.)

Tim and Chrissy's Wedding... and the most suspenseful weather ever.

2010-08-10T09:40:00.000-07:00

I photographed Tim and Chrissy's wedding two weeks ago at the Indian River Colony Club. I had met them only once before because they live in Virginia which made the usual engagement session a little complicated! I know Chrissy's sister though from photographing her family and was really looking forward to being a part of Tim and Chrissy's big day. We started out with the guys at the hotel, they wore REAL bow ties so that was a fun process as they all worked to get them on straight! Then I met Chrissy at the Colony Club as she was getting ready. Tim sent over a very sweet gift for her to open before the wedding which you'll see below. They had the ceremony right next door to the reception area and we took most of their portraits outside after the ceremony. That was the most interesting "weather" situation ever! When we walked outside to the golf course, the sprinklers turned on. But, only on half the course to our right. So, even though I had hoped to use that area, we moved on down to the left and tried to keep out of the breeze that was blowing the water at us. Then, several "locals" came by to tell us that the sprinklers would switch to other areas periodically. SO, we had no idea when we might be standing in the sprinklers or where a safe place to "hide" might be. We had to roll the dice and it worked out fine. As soon as we had the groups and family done I took the bride and groom over to where the sprinklers had just shut off. Chrissy didn't mind getting the bottom of her dress damp and this way we could be sure we were in a safe zone. Also, we got to use wet pavement which you should know is one of my favorite things in the whole world.
Chrissy and Tim chose Timmy Vee for their DJ services, their cake from Mathers Cake Shop and their flowers, center pieces and chair covers by Julie Miner.

Anyone remember this sweet face? See his blog entry here from a while back. I love him so much but he is so shy that I could easily make him cry just by sticking around too long (especialy with all the extra excitment). So I reluctantly kept my distance...

This guy wins the prize for cutest dogs and golf cart. And there was a definite
dogs-riding-golf-cart trend going on.

Look at him, he was trying to hide the fact that he was looking at me (and the camera.)
And yes I was stalking him, I admit it.

I love this. I don't know why.

The reception was so much fun. One of my favorite things at a reception is when there happens to be some really good dancers out on the floor. I don't mean trained or fancy, but just guys and girls who can get down with some fun moves. I love dance in general and the more fun people have on the dance floor, the more fun my job is during the reception. This was the group for that, which you'll see below! I can't stress to my clients enough that "if" they want a fun party atmosphere at their reception, the choice of DJ and LIGHTING is key.

Above is an example album spread...

Thanks Tim and Chrissy for having me be a part of your wedding day! Enjoy the slideshow... Up next is the wedding I shot the very next day for Marie and Derek!

The Miksis Children

2010-08-06T10:45:00.000-07:00

I met the Miksis family in Vero Beach a couple weeks ago. It reminded me of when I had two babies 18months apart! Life is a little crazy... But we had a great time and I was really happy with the outcome. I apologize for being so behind on the blog, I'm actually behind on everything right now due to a summer of moving, looking for houses, trying to get settled... working too. We weren't sure when the house would sell and then it did and we had one month to move. After we got moved I had a trip to Ohio planned previously to visit my brother and sister in law who are expecting a baby. We had an awesome maternity shoot I can't wait to post here but I've got a couple weddings ahead of that, then from this week I shot a great event at the UCF college of medicine and a high school senior from Colorado! I have decided to stop new bookings until after labor day in order to get back on track, kids back to school, etc. Please bear with me! There are so many new and exciting things just around the corner too with the opening of the studio!

I love baby yawns.

This was the general theme of the shoot, really funny.

The Wood-Purdie Family

2010-07-26T12:12:00.000-07:00

I photographed the Wood-Purdie family earlier in July -- my great Aunt and Uncle and their daughter's family (my cousins.) They were all in town for some vacation time and we hung out for the 4th as well. My kids love it when they get to play with their cousins (2nd or 3rd cousins? I can never remember how that goes!) I'm blessed to have such a big family and really thankful for the gift that has been in my life!

Since I have been meaning to get some updated pics here of my kids since Davis had his second birthday in March, I figured I would include a few from the barbque below!

Just an idea... in wrapped canvas...

There's Mary on the right, she's 5 1/2 now!

My babe and his big belly... love it.

There's Logan on the right, he's just turned 7 and he absolutely adores having his picture made, can you tell?

Quinn

2010-07-25T21:28:00.001-07:00

I photographed baby Quinn in her home in Melbourne week before last. She was past newborn but still quite little and just oh so sweet. She almost looked like she'd had her hair styled it was such a full head of hair! I love this one above! Makes me want to hold mine again when they were that small. The problem is, we don't get to do that. There is no rewinding or even a pause- no DVR option for life. This is what makes photography so important in every stage of your family, not just to have pictures, but to help you feel those moments again and again. I will be photographing baby Quinn throughout her first year so stay tuned to see how fast she will change! And, will her hair fall out or will it be down to her waist by her first birthday?

You know I can't resist baby feet.

What a sweet family!

If you are looking to book a newborn session, please read the baby slade entry under newborn and call before your delivery to set up a tentative session date.

Baby Layla

2010-07-24T10:21:00.000-07:00

I photographed baby Layla in her home a couple weeks ago and she is adorable. I love this one taken sleeping on her daddy's back and the one below here too is a favorite of mine. She has the sweetest little girl features and was just a doll to work with. Lots of poop, but still a doll. You can see the maternity session leading up to her arrival here. I'm so excited for her parents and hope to keep up with her as she grows and changes so fast!

With newborns, you've to get a crying pic (memories right?) and sleeping pics since she'll be awake for every session from now till forever!

This was just begging to be photographed.

Love Love Loved the nursery, what a cute idea with the pots right?

Congrats Chris and Mandy and thanks for your patience while I was moving!

Aimee's 18th!

2010-07-23T22:01:00.001-07:00

Aimee looked beautiful for her 18th birthday celebration and had, well maybe just a few admirers. Actually, it looked like the press had shown up for a red carpet event! I can't say enough about Aimee and how incredibly sweet she was from the moment I met her and throughout her big day. She left such an impression on me with her graciousness, gratitude and thoughtfulness to others. Her family must be so proud of the young woman she has become. I loved learning all about the customs of this event for Aimee's family. I loved all the traditions involved such as the 18 dancing boys with roses (my husband saw that one tonight and said "what's that in his mouth?" I said, "that's called a rose darling, maybe you should familiarize yourself with those again?") After the dancing boys, Aimee had 18 dedicated candles to light, each with a small word to the person she chose to share that moment with. Then there were dances with mom and uncles, cake, etc. It was all very nice and the Hilton Rialto did an excellent job as usual with event planning and follow-through. I am always impressed by the attentive staff and event coordinator there.

I realize it has been over a week since my last entry. I can't believe it was a week ago today that my family moved into our new-to-us home in Satellite Beach. We are right near my parents now which is wonderful, but the move was much more difficult than I anticipated and I have been buried in the details of that for the past week. It's never good to lose that much ground on my client galleries, orders and highlights here on the blog so I will be playing some catch up! I have baby Layla coming up next with baby Quinn and the Wood family behind her! I only took one session this week so that will help while I am making up ground. Please bear with me while I wade through this! I have a few orders to finish this week and then go out of town for a maternity shoot in Ohio next week! For my brother and his wife! Super cool.

more cameras.

I think I forgot to mention that everyone in Aimee's family is stunningly beautiful.

The Gruber Family - Cocoa Beach Vacation Photography

2010-07-13T13:41:00.001-07:00

I met the Gruber family last weekend (hmmm okay no it was the weekend before last!) They were on vacation in Cocoa Beach, FL and looking for an on location family photographer. I get so many calls like this in the summer that my schedule does not allow me to take them all! Jerry takes his three sons on a fabulous vacation every summer and has recently started investing in a photographer every time to capture the memories. I love that as a dad he is thinking of these things and I know years from now they will all treasure their summer vacation images!

this hat-wearing-style is new to me... is it a northern thing or am I just terribly old?

A little family dynamic here...

This little guy was always quick to look and smile at the camera, so willing to please!

Love it!!
So, I can't help asking, do you guys get alot of "magruber" jokes? Love the SNL skit, but haven't seen the movie. AND, tell us how you liked River Rocks!

2010-07-10T07:20:00.000-07:00

I photographed newborn Ivory last week at her home in Rockledge. I am so in love with her name but have to admit I did call her Pearl a few times for no apparent reason. I photographed her family before when her mom was just a few months along and you couldn't tell yet. You can see that here so you'll know how much her big brother has grown already!

Kristin and David Maternity

2010-07-08T23:37:00.000-07:00

I met Kristin and David last week for a maternity session in Melbourne Beach. They came over from Orlando. I shot Kristin's brother and sister in law's engagement on the beach here and ever since then I've been in touch with Kristin. I think I remember her even mentioning how she wanted to make sure I photographed her baby "when" she had one and now it is about that time! She'll be coming back over for her newborn and baby plan sessions and I can't wait to meet little Parker! Matt and Blair came along for the fun which was a bonus for me! I love keeping in touch and photographing my client's lives as they move through the seasons of newlyweds, family, children, etc. I hope one day to photograph a high school graduate of a previous wedding client! And straight after that retire!

Part 2- The First Studio Mini Sessions!

2010-07-07T19:23:00.000-07:00

Oh I am so super excited to share these. I am so excited for my studio space in downtown Eau Gallie's art district (Melbourne, FL) and even though indoor sessions have never been my favorite, these mini sessions with the beautiful filtered light in my studio are going to be such a fun addition to my on location shoots! I couldn't have asked for better test subjects. As I mentioned in the sneak peak (if you haven't seen that one go back!) the mini session is for one subject but the brave Ryals family attempted three in a row (one for each girl) so I snapped a few group shots as well and seriously how cute are these girls??

Lots of changes coming for Angel Gray Photography. We are offering more services than ever, super sized customer service and brand new collections. AGP is teaming up with an awesome designer in town for all our custom holiday cards, baby announcements, save the dates and wedding invites,,, etc! Such a great opportunity for AGP clients to be able to use the image files free of charge with a partner design team! I'll keep mentioning new things here as we approach the grand opening of the studio. Some of the changes will take effect gradually. Everything (including blogging and order fulfillment is taking a pause next week while my family moves to a new home in town) but hopefully I'll get enough done before I'm out of commission and buried under boxes of stuff I think I'd rather just give away at this point!
Next up on the blog: Letlow maternity, Baby Ivory, Gruber family and Aimee's 18th!

Ryals Girls and First Studio Mini Sessions!

2010-07-05T20:31:00.000-07:00

So, I'm opening a new studio. It is beautiful and in one of the oldest buildings in Melbourne which I adore since I love old stuff. I actually have to hold myself back from you walking in and feeling like you accidentally got the antique store instead. Thankfully I have friends to help with all that decor stuff I am terrible at! Although I call it a studio, only one of the four rooms is really intended for use shooting. It is the size of a bedroom so the only kind of session I will be offering there is a "mini session" for one subject. Think babies (although newborns are still best at home,) children, quick senior shoot, headshots, etc. I LOVE that there is so much natural light coming in that I don't need anything extra as far as flash goes. I also love not using a back drop but of course there are times that is appropriate as well. You may wonder why I have given you an example that includes 3 girls (didn't I say ONE subject?) Well, the Ryals family decided to be my guinea pigs and actually attempted 3 mini sessions in a row, which I felt entitled them to a little group bonus. (Don't try this at home, most children would have freaked out after 90 minutes in a confined space that is hardly childproof right now.) I loved this one so much and had to share it in the sneak peak so Leslie will know that if I don't see this big in her house somewhere we can't be friends anymore. Just kidding. But really.
The studio is coming along although I wish I could just stay there a week straight and get it ALL DONE. Only now my family is moving too (like next Friday?) so I have to press pause - darnnnn it. Lots in store for my fun new space though and of course a grand opening shin dig. Hung a TV last week for viewing your images on, getting the walls prepped for my new displays, wedding clients might even get a cocktail party as the kickoff to their online gallery - the most exciting part for me being the champaigne. Okay so enough said on that - more to come about the studio and the Ryals girls...

Gideon

2010-07-05T20:12:00.001-07:00

I photographed Gideon's senior portraits a few weeks ago but have just now come back to them to share with you. He was super comfortable in front of a camera which was great (and unusual for most guys!) He has already seen a few of these but hopefully the rest will be fun for him! When I think about people his age, I always think it is just around the corner that I will run into him and see the adult he has become. It will feel like a shock because it will seem like he was a teenager just a few days ago. He might be wearing a suit or carrying a bag of tools or even a child on his back... It's amazing to me how that jump from high school to adult life seems to happen so fast. I don't know Gideon that well, but I know enough to believe that whatever he is "wearing" five years from now, he will be giving his best.

His brother and sister were there so we shot a few of them while Gideon changed clothes. BTW, let me just say that although I work on a large, flat screen, HD monitor, I am uploading on a laptop right now and appalled at the poor color and screen resolution! Is this what "you" see?? Yikes, okay so do me one favor and at least try hunching down to view your screen straight on. Please? thank you. I will sleep better.

The Hurd Family

2010-07-04T21:34:00.000-07:00

I photographed the Hurd family a couple weeks ago in Melbourne Beach at Ryckman Park. This shoot was extra special because Carol purchased my donated package at a Parker's Pals fundraising auction. Follow the link for more info. In a nutshell the organization provides support to families who have a young child with cancer. It was started by a friend of mine (and Carol's) who lost her son to cancer but realized along the way that there is a gap in the system for children under three and their families to receive help and support. She started the organization and she also has a blog you can visit here that provides "candid reviews" of all kinds of products for moms, babies, children, organics, etc. That candid reviews part is one way of saying that Jamie is a straight shooter so you can trust her to tell it like it is. Go over there and look around, if you have a product you'd like reviewed, let her know!
Back to the Hurd family.... beautiful girls, loved the outfits... more below....

love it. the big sister.

love those pudgy arms, just like my baby Davis... mmmmmwah

should i comment here and ruin the moment?

I can totally feel this. Who else?

Love the pout. Who needs smiles when pouts are so good.

Wardrobe change.

Be still my beating heart.

Each girl had or has a birthday recently so they each had the corresponding number of flowers. cute.

"yes we really are almost done and going for ice cream!"

I think Carol was afraid it didn't go well. Speak up and tell her it did! :)

The Fitzgerald Family

2010-07-04T10:02:00.001-07:00

I met the Fitzgerald family a couple weeks ago (yes the blog is lagging a bit but this summer is crazy with family and business moves so it's probably going
to stay a tad slow here on the posting!)
So, this little guy was nothing but sweet and so funny too! Enjoy!

my favorite above

This is a cool new thing I'm doing with framing only half an image.
No it's not.

The Wheeler Family

2010-06-28T13:44:00.000-07:00

I met the Wheeler's in their home a couple weeks ago for some family portraits with just the women in the family. Getting the babies to cooperate with something a little formal was a challenge but I think we came away with some precious keepsakes! This is the last of my pre-vacation sessions to blog (wait a minute, no there is one more!) After Gideon's senior portraits, you'll see the Fitzgerold and Hurd family as well as my first mini session in the studio with the Ryals girls! This summer is keeping me busy between all the kids out of school, major business renovations including a new studio AND my family is moving as well (in town!) I have to admit, life is a bit chaotic but the changes are exciting! A little preview of some of the new branding below... the sign for the studio is being painted this week so the new logo will be revealed!

teething can be cute.

Baby Hunter

2010-06-24T22:26:00.001-07:00

I photographed baby Hunter in his home a couple weeks ago and he was such a sweetie. I couldn't resist the sequence above. He fought off sleep for a minute and then just dived right in, sweet baby smile and all. It is definitely baby season so stay tuned! I have a newborn on Tuesday and two more clients expecting to deliver this week!

I loved Hunter's room!

precious!

Crying pictures of babies are oddly sweet to me. I think it might be because they bring back vivid memories as a mom, to when my babes were tiny and needy like this and
that urge to comfort them and how it seemed hard at the time but looking back and even experiencing it with my third, I've realized the simplicity of the situation is something to savor. Baby needs mom, mom loves baby. The end.
Next comes... Baby refuses to obey mommy. Mommy can't figure it all out.
Mommy needs vacation.

Hunter's big sister was so careful with him!

Susie's extended family!

2010-06-21T21:39:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure of photographing my good friend Susie's extended family a couple weeks ago (before my vacation, which has resulted in the after-vacation-catch-up-phase.) They were all adorable, but I can't resist the baby and his michelin man look! We had a rain scare in the beginning of the session, but then it just stopped and gave way to beautiful light for the rest of our time!

c'mon seriously, how cute is Susie and her kids? Also, how is she busier than I am in her crazy awesome career yet her body looks like she just works out all the time?

love this sweet one.

It looks like we were on location for LOST, no black smoke monster though. phew.

I'm in love.

Keil family all the way from Alaska!

2010-06-11T20:49:00.000-07:00

The Keil family contacted me from Alaska when they started planning their summer vacation. They have been traveling all over the place this summer and I met them in Melbourne Beach on their way through Florida. I think these children were two of the most cooperative kids (aside from older ones) I have ever worked with and they had such happy attitudes the whole time! HOPE for those of use with three under 7 who feel like their kids might never make it through a shoot without crying! Oh wait, is that just me?

But the real question here is what do you think about my couch drawing up there? I am NOT an artist of any kind when it comes to that sort of thing so please forgive me but I just love combinations of wrapped canvas for family wall portraits and since each family session produces different results -images that work together in different shapes and combinations- well I just thought it was easier to draw you a picture than search for a template that was exactly what I wanted!

This one up here would also be fun for a foyer or hallway or bedroom.

He was playing with her wedding ring. I don't know why I like that but I just love the moment.

Sometimes eyes shut are even better than eyes open!

This is the most maintenance these kiddos got and look, he is still smiling!

My favorite family pic.

Best wishes for safe travel back to Alaska Keil family!

The Scarborough Family

2010-06-08T21:15:00.000-07:00

My good friends from Orlando were visiting New Smyrna Beach last week and I went up to get some family portraits for them. Sheli and I worked together in Orlando with Young Life there and it has now been 7 years since my family moved away to Clearwater (then here.) Our experience in Orlando with Sheli and Jason and Young Life was a true bonding experience! Sheli is such a genuine person and all around good friend. Jason is one of the funniest guys I know and I can't imagine a single person who doesn't love being around him. He wanted to take some "special" pics just for Dana (my husband) but we ran out of time. Sorry Jason, we'll definitely have to take a rain check on those because I know they would have been fun! I am totally leaving out their beautiful children but only because the majority of these highlights are of them and are just so self explanatory. One thing I loved about these is that they reminded me so much of a season in my family when Logan and Mary were about the same ages as Sheli's kids below and had the same sweet relationship. In fact, I have some very similar images of them on the beach together.

I wanted to bring this red lifeguard chair home with me...

Love this one. feet of course, but hands too. bonus.

Love to see their personalities come out here.

I thought this was a fitting series on how family portrait photography can evolve within a session. Beginning with above the sometimes reluctant faces of young children when asked to be still and smile pretty....

Then the family dynamic can take a negative turn if mom and dad catch on to young children's lack of cooperation. (Or if photog. asks them to make ugly faces hoping to get the opposite response next...)

Phew. Look at those happy faces. I can't help but love the grumpy ones best (wouldn't it make a statement on a Christmas card?) ..but this is what we were going for.

This is so him.

This is so her.

And here they are doing their "thing" together.

a favorite.

Grandparents joined in...
love the one below of the grandparents because I feel like you can sense the unique relationship they offer. The love of grandparents can be like a specialty store. Sort of like the Christmas Cottage downtown with the gazillions of trees and every themed ornament you can think of. Some of it is down right silly. Absurd even. Extravagant. The store holds a special purpose for only one particular audience and because it focuses on that, there is no need to worry about anything else, or to be practical in any way. It's just special and you can usually find exactly what you're looking for there -assuming you came looking for something unique. When you walk through the doors, it even feels like fun and you're freed up to just take it all in rather than just mark off your list what you came for. Can you tell on their faces how good it feels?

Successful store.

Sheli and Jason are celebrating 10 years this summer, just like Dana and I!
Don't they look great?!

love this one

Dana's Graduation Pictures

2010-06-05T21:52:00.001-07:00

I shot Dana's senior pictures last week in downtown Melbourne. She loves flowers and we couldn't find a good garden but did find the most awesome dead flowers ever (above) and my favorites from the session. They are so Tim Burton. I heart Edward Scissorhands --for you old school people. So, Dana just graduated from Eau Gallie High School and she is such a nice girl!
Off the subject, I am 7 hours away from my husband getting home after being gone a whole week. The tough part about that is how he will think he is so tired even though we all know that three kids on your own, in the summer, while working, most certainly wins the
i-need-rest-prize. But I'm proud of him and the work he does so I'm going to be generous and give him a few hours tomorrow morning. After that, I'm thinking pedicure... on my way to tomorrow night's session of course!

Love this one.

We finished off at the beach right at sun down and yes that may look like the sun but since we are living on the East Coast that is actually the moon!

Chris and Mandy are having a baby!

2010-06-03T14:06:00.001-07:00

I met Chris and Mandy for maternity photography last week. We started at their home and finished at Gleason Park. When Mandy called me and told me her last name I knew she had to be Chris's wife! I have known Chris since he was little (and me too.) He is my little brother's age and my family used to hang with his when we were all small, then he and Devon went through school together and his sister Andrea graduated with me (just yesterday really. not really. but maybe if you believe me we can just go with that.) I actually ran into him at the bowling alley last summer. Our lanes were right next to each other. It was my kids first time ever bowling. We were all very lucky to get through it without an injury -including Chris. Logan, my oldest and my perfectionist, was freaking out when he didn't knock down enough pins. Thank God for the bumpers. My dtr was better at throwing the ball rather than rolling it and little Davis was running wild like the animal he is. Now picture Chris and his buddies trying their best to have guy time. Poor Chris and his buddies.

So, he told me then that they were expecting and now months later it was really fun to meet Mandy and get to capture this special time for them. There really is nothing like the expectancy of your first child. Their nursery is beautiful and all set. Mandy looks gorgeous and Chris has the new dad nervous excitement thing going. I love the series I put up top but there are a few others competing for my favorite!

This is just hysterical. Poor pup. I hate to break it to you but it is all down hill for you now. Relish your last moments as the baby...

I have a love-hate relationship with this one. I love Mandy's beautiful face and yellow bench and the composition. I hate the thought of laying upside down as a pregnant woman and I start to feel my stomach in my throat when I look at this. She wasn't really tilted, the camera is. I wouldn't do that to her. It was bad enough to ask her to lay flat on her back! (I'm gasping for air just thinking about it.) She looks great though right.

super tan belly. I never did achieve this myself.

I love how Chris has to bend over to kiss her cheek -this is another fave for me.

and this one.

they got married right here.

oh yeah this one too.

this one's hot.

stay tuned for newborn!

As You Wish Catering and Events

2010-06-01T11:01:00.001-07:00

As You Wish Catering and Events is a unique option for those of you looking for a caterer in Melbourne, FL and surrounding Brevard County. AYW offers more than just amazing food, impeccable service and presentation. They will also go the extra mile for your event; be it decor, center pieces, chair rentals, you name it. I shot these images last week at the Lansing Island Club House and because I was not the photographer for the actual wedding, I was not there during the main course but don't worry, I will get some images of the yummy dinners offered and put them up here soon. I am impressed by the finished product and artful presentation but especially the pride this business takes in it's results. Leave comments and reviews here if you have worked with As You Wish!!

I'm going to dig up some Lansing Island Club House pics to show you more of what this venue has to offer... To be continued...

Nathan's Bar Mitzvah

2010-05-30T21:28:00.000-07:00

I photographed Nathan's Bar Mitzvah celebration last weekend at The Courtyard at the Oaks
in Melbourne, FL. First though, I had the pleasure of coming along to Temple and photographing some of the rights of passage for Nathan's big day. I had visited a temple once before in college on an assignment for my world religions class. I was very impressed then, as I still am, at the focus on remembrance. I love the emphasis on what God has done for His people in the past which in turn brings hope for the future. I love that kids Nathan's age are practicing an ancient language, not because it will be useful for communication purposes, but I imagine to connect with the origin of their faith. As a Christian I have treasured the studies I've done on the patriarchs we share with the Torah. I kind of wish we had more markers for kids growing up in the faith. Nathan's celebration was rich with symbolism and the support of his family and friends. I started out with the first few images here being designed as album spreads and/or storyboard collage. As you can see in the first image above, Nathan's dad was just beaming with pride for his son the whole time. Mom too, but I think the Bar Mitzvah is extra special to fathers and sons.

Oh my I am love with this wee one.

See. I told you.

What a cute family right? I think dad is from Morocco and mom from Canada but they've lived here in the Melbourne Area for a long time.

This is Courtyard at the Oaks and I'm not sure who did the arrangement but I know the Oaks provided the table settings and custom designed a Moroccan menu.

Do you remember middle school?

xoxo

barbie, hand bag, pink shoes. check. sweet cheeks I want to pinch like an annoying aunt. double check.

this is the table chart. remember middle school now?

The first part of the event was outside on the patio, great set up with the bar and servers walking around with yummy hors d'oeuvres. Why do I have to google that every time I spell it?

if there is a sweet baby or toddler at your event, i will not be able to resist.

if you weren't sure about the possibility of flying people leaving trails of pixie dust behind, you can rest assured now.

enthusiastic crowd. really fun. grandpa was a hoot too.

sweetest little sister ever giving her speech in support of her bro.

The dj's were very familiar with Bar Mitzvah. Did a great job I thought with keeping the event moving from one thing to the next. But, just say no to the weird confetti looking lights. They were all over everybody on the dance floor like glowing lent. I even got a photo with a green one right under someone's nose. No worries guests of Nathan, I deleted, but seriously.

They're holding hands. I think it's a duet.

love this one. these girls had a blast.

I learned that photographers can get crushed in what I believe might be the most ancient of all mosh pit traditions. Really cool dancing in circles, then circles moving in different directions, then in and out and poor Nathan just when he thinks he might sneak away there are more ladies ready to give him a twirl. I LOVE the hands.

Alpizar Law Event!

2010-05-30T11:10:00.001-07:00

I photographed an event for Alpizar Law last weekend, located in Palm Bay, Fl. It was a fun get together and also a chance for the firm to celebrate the city of Palm Bay's 50th anniversary with a generous donation for a new outdoor movie screen. The screen is portable so can be used all over Palm Bay in the various parks the city has to offer. Sounds like something my kids would like to do! Many of Palm Bay's city officials attended.

Continental Flambe' catered

John Alpizar

David Alpizar

I saw some friends from high school I probably haven't seen since high school which was of course only a few years ago. (anyone believe that? thank you.)

Here is a smaller version of the movie screen.

John's grandbabies... so cute!

everyone had a great time!

Always fun to run into couples I know because I shot their wedding! Lindsey and Drew on the left even have their first baby already!

To see all the photos from this event, visit Alpizar Law's facebook page.

Ania and Marcin all the way from Poland!

2010-05-27T21:05:00.001-07:00

I photographed Ania and Marcin's wedding (pronounced Mar-chin as I figured out all too late) while they were here all the way from Poland. Ania's sister Gosia lives here and I think I could listen to either of them talk forever. Their voices and accents are beautiful! Ania and Marcin had a small, intimate ceremony at the Chart House. I loved how Ania's brother in law married them and her sister translated to their parents the whole time. We met before the wedding to take pictures at the park and downtown. Marcin is I think actually Mr. Bean, but he tells me he is a photographer in Poland. He's definitely Bean.

oops a repeat, but it's worth repeating so I'm leaving it!

this makes me wish I had a sister growing up and that my dtr had one too!

this is the real thing people. and it is sweeeeet.

marcin: I'm sure, you sure?

I forgot to say how much I LOVED ania's dress, the neckline especially and her beautiful broach. I'm sure I spelled that wrong. Her friends made the dress!! How cool is that?

silly mr. bean

Jennifer, LeBrandon and Baby #2...

2010-05-23T23:46:00.001-07:00

I met Jennifer's family in Melbourne Beach last week for a maternity session. The little guy here is almost 2 I believe so he will be very close in age to his new brother/sister. Jennifer looked beautiful and her brother in law came along but daddy is currently deployed and on active duty outside the country. She said that her brother in law has been wonderful and has really stepped in to help with his nephew. You can tell that LeBrandon loves his uncle and of course, his mommy. He is so sweet and tiny, lifting him up I got the feeling he might just keep going if I didn't hold on tight! This is because, with my own children (who are apparently filled with some sort of concrete,) I have become accustomed to the experience of actually preparing to pick them up like those body builder guys who crouch down, take a deep breath and then hoist those giant barbells. Or something like that. So, I've got to be careful I don't launch little guys into outer space.
So, Jennifer brought along a jacket of her husband's to bring a little of who he is into our photo shoot and into the expectancy this shoot will recall. I'm sure her excitement for the birth of this child is intertwined with her delight in seeing her husband again. She is expecting him to be home for the birth. It was a beautiful evening!

I am in love with this one above.

I don't know why I love this one, I just do. It's probably going to be one of those times that I have a random favorite and everyone else is going, huh?

Jennifer totally reminds me here of a pregnant Sandra Oh (who I adore in Greys but who would probably -but you never know, please oh please- never call me for maternity photography.)

I love when kids hug with their feet.

Good times. I hope to update you on the newborn as soon as he/she comes out to meet the world. It's 3am and time to turn in! I've got some crazy insomnia thing going on lately and it didn't help tonight when my husband and I finished watching the LOST finale at 1:30 and I couldn't stop my wheels from turning after that!

The Esposito Family

2010-05-21T19:50:00.000-07:00

I got to shoot the Esposito Family pictures at their home last week. I was super excited to do this because Mrs. Esposito is my daughter's school principal. Somehow I think we survived 3 years of preschool without me having to be called in to "the principal's office." My Mary has a good dose of determination and down right fiesty-ness. And if you are assuming right now that those traits came from me than yes you would be right. I had more than my fair share of trips to the principal's office. However, let me pass the buck and remind you that it couldn't have started with me. So, who is really to blame? My parent's of csourse.
You can blame almost anything on your parents.
I was really looking forward to meeting Chris's family. She is so great at First United Methodist Preschool. I told her a couple years ago that she is in the perfect job. I see her all the time caring for her staff and the children as well but I can tell she is not only caring but a good strong leader too. We've been talking about doing these pictures for a while. Chris warned me that her family was not totally into it but would hopefully cooperate as a mother's day gift to her. I thought they did exceptionally well. Also, I think I will start bringing other families to Chris's back yard for photo sessions. Maybe even borrow the dog.

Chris has two kids in college. My kids understand that they are not allowed to do that. Well, unless they both get full rides which of course they will because of course they are brilliant. The verdict is still out on Davis who according to speech therapists is a "motor boy." His scholarship might have to be for sports. I love my motor boy and treasure the fact that he isn't talking much yet. The Lord does not give you more than you can handle and I can't handle another child who talks as much as the first two. He does love to play catch though and that works for me. But then there is his friend Lucy who is his age and I keep seeing video of her on facebook singing songs and reminding me that some 2 year olds say more than
ma-ma. ball. da-da. touchdown.

This is one happy dog. I LOVE this picture.

See those faces saying "I love you mom."

Girlfriends and boyfriends joined in on the photo-fun too... awww maybe their wedding entry will be on here someday and I'll link back to this.

These are my favorites. I love how easily they make each other laugh and how Chris's eyes disappear when she smiles big.

We went inside and they said we could be done but I said no and stayed for some kitchen pics. And it was like those cooking shows because the first thing they did was take a perfectly cooked pizza out of the oven. Then, they started to make another one. And by the way this house is so clean I thought they just moved in. And I wanted to move in too.

See that? Don't try this at home. It never goes as planned.

Dear Chris, should I send you my teacher request now or later?
(for motor boy)

Sarah's Senior Portraits

2010-05-19T13:05:00.000-07:00

Sarah goes to Bayside High School and we met at the BCC Project Get Ready event this year. She arrived to the session eager with lots of great ideas for photos and a couple outfit changes. I can tell she must be an over achiever and is obviously musically talented. We had a great time. Her mom and brother came along for fun and I took a couple pictures of them together as well. I am going to spare you a big wordy blog entry since you've probably had enough of me since yesterday but just want to add that Sarah struck me as a girl with not only a good head on her shoulders but with a very loving and supportive family as well. (She was nice to her brother and keep in mind she is still a teenager. Who does that?) Enjoy the highlights! My favorite is up top of course!

a little grungy texture here

I do love this one too. Striking.

I call this, go bright or go home.

This is blue-sy and I think it suits her musical-y-ness

love this one too!

this is a 5x15, just to spice it up.

This is a story board. Good times.

Hollie's Senior Portrait Session

2010-05-18T10:57:00.000-07:00

Hollie is a graduate this year of Melbourne Central Catholic and decided to book her session with me after seeing her friend Edith's images and after a somewhat disappointing "round one" with another studio. She is really an interesting girl. I can tell from our time together that she knows what she wants and she values simplicity. She brought one outfit only and while she doesn't prefer to smile she does have some pretty awesome authentic looks outside the usual. I told her she has Elvis eyes and I don't think she knew what that was. I should have said Lisa Marie but I guess that would sound even less recognizable. Now let me preface this with a disclaimer: I am not the photographer who goes for ultra sexy senior grad pics. Because I am also a mom and an artist and a business person. Because I would love to see our female generation get excited about honor, integrity and true beauty. What is pretty? What are girls getting told is pretty? I am always pointing out to Mary (my five year old) what is and isn't pretty just to combat all the misinformation out there. Climbing down now!!! So, deep breath, I only want to provide honest to goodness beauty to parents and society in general.
Which is why I noticed Hollie's stunning eyes. I don't think she knew it or at least she acted surprised when I told her (even after we got past the Elvis reference.) She has the kind of eyes I told her she should not look at boys with. If you know what I mean.

She actually is quite busy riding and competing with her horse which she didn't tell me about until the end of our session. Note to high school seniors: share this with me before we meet! I am now wishing we had gotten some time at the stables. I'll live I guess. Anyway, Hollie did an amazing job and I did make her smile big a few times because even though she promised her mom is fine with no smile, I just just couldn't help but assume all moms want to see that smile, especially those teeth they might have invested a pretty penny in...

I like this one above.

This is a favorite as well as the first one up top.

I love the lines here!

Hollie, congratulations and best wishes!

Geoff and Leigh married at Windemere Inn

2010-05-15T13:40:00.001-07:00

First of all, Geoff and Leigh are beautiful and happy and had beautiful happy people surrounding them on their wedding day. (cue R.E.M.) They were married two weeks ago and I am never that behind on blogging but I have had SUCH technical difficulties this week that I am ready to throw this computer into the ocean and pray for a shark to eat it just so it can be tortured as I have been tortured! Also, that would help me feel like I wasn't littering, like when you consider throwing an apple core out the window and assuming a bird is going to eat it right up you feel okay about it. Not that I do that.

I can't get my album software working and instead of just using photoshop or moving on (which is what I finally did) I spent the last 24hrs trying to get it to work! I like to post more than the average blog entry for weddings, simply because there is more than the average number of images to choose from and I really want you to get the whole story. For the past 6 months or so, I 've been displaying them as custom designed album spreads which is fun for my wedding clients to see if they are ordering a book and I'm assuming more fun to look at this many pics that way! So, I was determined to make it happen and even now I have these little perfectionist voices in my head saying, "if you just try this, then you could still get the layouts done." No not really voices but you know what I mean. I decided to just post all the pics so please forgive the literal length of the blog entry! You could just skip to the bottom for the video.

Leigh loved the huge bathroom and big jacuzzi tub at the Windemere Inn so I thought this would be a fun memory for her.

I loved her hair. So classic.

Leigh's aunt provided her flowers and cake. Pretty much all of Leigh's friends and family were here from Kentucky (including Leigh and Geoff btw.)

They had beautiful, breezy weather for their wedding day!

You know you're getting married in Florida when you have to say, "Can you get my back?" before you walk down the isle.

How adorable is she? Who wouldn't want to marry her?

Love this one.

I hope this is her mom (the leg) because it is precious!!

Can I please get wardrobe over here and give this kid a dress to match the wild flowers?
Oh wait, never mind.

What, you want to get married here too? Me too. Let's all have a do-over.
Just call Beth Fisher, she is GREAT.

happy.

I think this is my new favorite wedding party photo.

It was actually "derby day." All these Kentucky residents were in withdrawal but brought along their big hats anyway. I LOVED the big hats. There was more but I've already got over 40 images here so I'll spare you.

I'm in love with this series of three here. What is that blooming flower called? It smells sweet and spring timey.

Another fave.

Reception time at Dijons. Love their room.

I decided that Kentucky girls are all cute and well dressed. Nothing against us Florida girls but we are a little too comfortable in our flip flops
(fyi: flip flops with some rhinestones are still flip flops.)

Oh my, would it be rude if I asked for a bite? Yes, probably would be.
Okay, count to three, move on.
Dear Fresh Mozzarella: I love you.

My favorite chandelier ever.

First one to guess the correct song that was playing during the photo above wins an 8x10.

Ahhh, just right. Beautiful day. Perfectly simple. See Leigh and Geoff's engagement here.

The video can be seen in high resolution by clicking on the HQ in the bottom corner. :)

Margaret Graves

2010-05-11T06:53:00.000-07:00

My husband's mom passed away a year ago today. I wanted to put something up in her memory. She left us unexpectedly and she is missed terribly. I know especially for Dana and his sister, the feeling of loss doesn't go away and as time has gone by it can feel better some days and then out of nowhere it's not better at all. Just missing her, as if we went on a long trip and now it's been the longest amount of time we've ever gone without seeing or talking to her, except we can't just pick up the phone. Or, when we see the milestones in our children's life and think about how excited she would have been to see them too. She got excited pretty easily, especially over her grandchildren. I know for me and I'm sure for Dana this week we are remembering the last conversations we had. She called the house while we were gathering up all the kids and on our way out the door. I answered. She wanted to ask me if I thought Logan and Mary would like to have a "real" wrist watch for their "last day of school gift (kindergarten graduation for Logan)." She had found some cute ones in a shop by her house. She loved presents. I said yes, and that I thought they would love that. Dana had a short talk with her before we had to go. I remember how I almost didn't answer the phone because we really didn't have time. I remember how happy she was that I thought they would like those watches. It was only a day or two later that Dana flew up to NY when she was admitted to the hospital. I remember his early morning call and my sense of fear as I picked it up, then the sound of his broken voice. I remember when we found the watches at her house after I flew up to be with Dana. I personally have lots of things I wish I had said to Margaret. But I am so glad I answered her call that day.

I'm copying below the part of her program I wrote for the services.

Margaret Ann Graves was born and raised in Manhattan. She loved the city. She moved upstate when she was 17 years old. In 1967 she gave birth to her first child, daughter Michelle. Her son Dana followed in 1971. Margaret was a devoted, hard working mother who would do anything, give anything and sacrifice anything for her children. In 1984 Margaret went to work for the US Post Office. She worked the same route for the past 14 years and was a dedicated and enthusiastic mail carrier to her customers... They were crazy about her. Margaret welcomed her first grandchild, AJ, in 1989. Next came Blane in 2001, Logan in 2003, Mary in 2005 and Davis in 2008. She loved her grandchildren fiercely and they will miss their Mom-Mom dearly. Margaret met Buddy Graves in 1998; they were married a year later on May 1, 1999. Together they enjoyed visiting family, vacationing and just hanging out at home. Margaret loved Buddy’s family. Margaret and Buddy brought home a baby labrador retriever in 2000. Stormy would become one of Margaret’s greatest joys. Margaret was a loyal Jets fan, an avid bowler and a faithful friend. She loved to have fun, loved to give gifts, loved to watch movies or read a good book. She loved life and was thankful for every day she had after surviving lung cancer 14 years ago. She was a fighter.
Margaret left her mark here and the world will not be the same without her. We will miss her terribly and wish so much to have had the chance for one last conversation, one more hug, a goodbye. But we have hope. There is hope in knowing she has moved on to joys beyond this world and that someday we can be together again... get that hug, that talk - but no more goodbyes.

Michelle} Class of 2010

2010-05-07T20:33:00.001-07:00

Michelle is graduating from Viera High School this year and was the big winner of my high school senior facebook contest! She won a senior portrait package worth over $650.00 by receiving the most votes from her friends! We met in Melbourne Beach and had some fun - seriously, high school senior portraits are FUN. She had a few changes of clothes and is just a good natured person, which I hope comes through in these images. I can see why her friends went out of their way to give her lots of votes! Congratulations Michelle! And, please forgive my semi-late blog entry... I've been on a mission to get all my client print orders up to date!

If you are a high school junior and thinking about your portraits for next year, I reccomend we get them done by the end of September! Mention Michelle's photo shoot when you book your session and get a free 8x10!

She's totally gorge. (that's how Mary and I say gorgeous. You can use it too if you want to be cool like us.)

Marianna's Baptism

2010-05-04T09:14:00.000-07:00

I photographed Marianna's baptism last weekend and she was a doll. All that excitment, all the family gathered, all the rituals of baptism and hardly a peep out of her. She is a happy girl. You can see a few newborns of her here with her cousin slade.

family and friends gathered in the first row

Marianna's baptism dress above was worn by her mother. Her second outfit for the family gathering after church was her great grandmother's baptism dress. Beautifully preserved for I think they said over 80 years!

see, happy.

blanket made by grandma

We did some family group shots after church but this was my favorite!

Mark and Erika

2010-04-28T21:14:00.001-07:00

I had the privilege of photographing one of my oldest and dearest friends last week. Erika and I have been friends since some time in elementary school when she got off the boat from Italy - I mean New York - and headed to FL. She and I lived just blocks away from each other and went through braces phases, big ugly hair phases, dumb guy phases, sneaking out the window phases (she made me do it) and everything in between. She always made me late for school. I would wait for her as she blow dried her hair yelling "NO MAH, I AM NOT CHANGING OUT OF THIS SKIRT!" or something like that, I really just remember the "mah" part. She reminds me that I was the one getting her into trouble while she protested and wanted to follow the rules. Which brings to mind that I think she stayed in while we snuck out. Goody two shoes. She swears I drove her (in reverse the whole time) the 6 blocks from her house to mine on several occasions. (I remember nothing of the sort.) We were cheerleaders together until we decided that wasn't cool anymore. Finally came graduation from high school -go scorps (insert feigned school spirit here and did you know I love parenthesis?)
Now she gives me her daughter's hand-me-downs and my daughter goes nuts over the Hannah Montana shirts. I am also a much better girl and have stopped sneaking out. Times have changed but I am blessed to still have Erika's friendship and to see her engaged to a great guy (who also went to HS with us but was too busy with lame stuff like sports.) She has been super weirded out about being on the blog as if "everyone" is going to see it. She doesn't get that only my mom and I look at this and I even have to call and say "Mom, have you looked at the blog?" She always says "No I'll look tonight honey." I'm not sure she ever does but part of that is because she keeps forgetting how to use a computer. She does love me, I swear.
Anyway, I think Erika's just being modest.

This one above was our favorite. We ended up ordering it in the color-ish version (up top) on metallic paper, mounted to a standout. Nice. I still like this BW one too.

Mark and Erika have tatoos. The serious ones, not like us lame-o's who got one little thing while backpacking through Europe and totally hate it now. Lame-o is my favorite word lately and I don't know why or how that happened. So, I brought in some haze here so you could see Mark's arm.

Erika's going to say she looks pale here and she's going to hate that I included one that shows her off so much. But the light is in the post processing and I like it because everything else here is DARK and also because she looks beautiful and Mark looks adoring.

I noticed I forgot this one above last night and duh when I love it so much.

Dark and moody but that's my girl anyway. I like this one.

This just in, my convo with mom this morning:
"Mom, I wrote about you in the last two blog entries."
"Really honey? How do I get to the blog?"
sigh.

I hate pictures of myself.

2010-04-28T12:15:00.000-07:00

Well, I have a few minutes while images are converting from raw to jpg for an order I am editing so I thought I'd finally put these up here. I am planning on some time next century for actually updating my profile on the web site, facebook, etc. The picture on the main site is crazy out of date. This became most apparent to me when my mom (who gives her opinion once every 30 years) told me I needed to switch that "old picture" off my website. Then there were the pre-office times when I used to meet clients at Starbucks for consults and they would look around for the young skinny girl with long blonde hair and finally settle on me as a back up. I would like to say I have a strategy. We are working on some fun new changes here, including a new website. Why put any more time, ever again, into the old site? Isn't there enough to do? Unfortunately I have to admit I just like the younger. blonder. me. So, in an act of complete surrender to my aging self, I grabbed a couple of new friends (while I was at WPPI which I plan to blog sometime mid to late next century), handed them my camera and proceeded to feel incredibly awkward having my picture made. I don't know how you guys do it so well! Behind the lens is the place for me!! Oh and no I did not hold my camera up by my face or on my shoulder or any other lame place. I have no desire to be pictured with my camera as if we are dating. You know I'm a photographer still right? (please no offense to my talented friends who do like to be pictured with their camera. whatever floats your boat.) Anyway, I just haven't had time to do anything with these but I want my friends to know how much I do appreciate their help. Big thanks to Derek Cookson Royal Oak, MI photographer and Jason Prezant Newark, DE photographer. Derek even did the post processing for me which is great because I probably would have airbrushed my face off. I'll spare you the list of physical attributes I would like to change and just offer a moment of silence in appreciation for Photoshop.
amen.

Addison turns 1

2010-04-23T06:50:00.000-07:00

I met up with Addison and her family in Vero Beach, well almost 2 weeks ago - I have been feverishly finishing lots of orders this week! We had a great time, following Addison around the park, watching her stuff her face with cake and changing her outfits just for fun - which is what you do with little girls until they get old enough to want to dress themselves. darn it. I think I would dress my daughter into her first day of college if she would let me.
But she definitely won't.
Anyhow, Addison is a cutie and I think we captured some great memories here! Enjoy!

my fave.

The only thing even close to as wonderful as baby feet is baby leg pudge.

wardrobe malfunctions

Oh wait, no this one (on her toes) is my favorite.

I love it when people do just the right thing without me asking.

oh shoot maybe my favorite is this one?

she went for a stroll after "dessert"

the end

Theresa and Joe get Married

2010-04-20T11:16:00.001-07:00

I photographed Theresa and Joe's wedding last weekend at Ryckman Park in Melbourne Beach. I absolutely loved all the color and texture, especially all of Theresa's "etsy" finds. She worked with Kyla Coram of A Wedding to Remember planning the event. Theresa found her dress in NYC (Avine Perucchi by St. Pucchi) and the beautiful yellow flowers and table arrangements were designed by Amanda's florist. Theresa and Joe were a pleasure to work with. I shot their engagement session probably a year and a half ago at which time Theresa was living and working in DC and they had to commute to see each other. It's fun to see their relationship progress to being settled here in Melbourne and now husband and wife! Congratulations guys! All these highlights are being displayed as pages for my lay flat album designs. The fold comes straight down the middle.

love love love the crystal earrings and bracelet custom designed by an etsy store, hey Theresa give us the link down here in the comments! Her hair and makeup were taken care of by Essentials Spa.

If you didn't make it into this bridal party, you might now be wishing you did... These adorable coach bags were Theresa's bridesmaid gifts!

Amanda's florist

Love the shoes!

I must stop here and air my dirty laundry. If you were at the wedding ceremony, this is no surprise to you but if you weren't, let me fill you in. See those elegant glass vases lining the wedding isle? Yep, I broke one. Knocked it over with my foot while photographing the ceremony. Crash. Not exactly the highlight of my career. I felt terrible but figured if I stopped my coverage at all that might be even more distracting so I just kept going. Now, you might be browsing the blog wondering if I could be the photographer for you and thinking, "Yikes, she breaks things." Well, yes I did. However, allow me to calm your fears by letting you know that I will forever be haunted by this mishap. I will probably never lift a foot again during a ceremony without scanning the area for absolutely anything that could make a sound by getting knocked over. So there you go, my counselor said I should just put it out there. I am joking - but then again, nothing wrong with a little couch time!

We figured out that it's really hard to get an entire wedding party blowing a bubble at the same time.

If you are hoping to have a reception that everyone gets up and dances at and is lit well (which by the way I CANNOT stress enough) then DJ Shane is a great choice and a really nice guy.

Catering and Cake by Puff 'N Stuff out of Orlando. I used to love rock candy as a kid.
mmmmm

Dom -senior portrait session preview

2010-04-14T22:33:00.001-07:00

Okay finally the rest of Dom's highlights. I am on this mission to get a few wedding albums completed plus out of town this weekend so it has been a very crazy week. Dom, I hope you like your highlights!

I met Dom for Senior portraits last week and we were all around town but ended up here for some pics with his car. I am going to finish this blog entry later because I am wrapping up three wedding albums this week and going out of town this weekend so I am running a bit short on time and the blogging has to take a back seat. I know he is so excited to see some of these so I am putting up this preview then I'll add more later. I added some moody color and texture Dom, you may like the au-naturale better but I thought this was fun. That UFO looking thingy up top is one of the bugs that was swarming me thanks to the light I was holding right over my head. I kept it in the image just for the fond memories!

The Diaz Family

2010-04-12T23:10:00.000-07:00

I met the Diaz family in Melbourne Beach last week for a family photography session. We had one of those super clear blue sky days which presents it's beauty along with it's challenges. It worked out great. Just before I shot the photo above I told these siblings that even though they may be in a tough season of practically hating each other, there will come a time in the future when they will be super close and they will love having these pictures... "So, get close and hug each other like you mean it!" Now for my disclaimer: I might have been displacing my own family experience as a teenager and these kids might actually adore each other right now and they may have even been thinking I am a total nutcase but okay we'll humor you. We'll never know, but as you can see they did a great job and there was no
"Mom, tell him to stop looking at me" going on.

Given the choice, I will pick images that make me laugh, sigh or cry any time over the "perfect portrait." So, I love this one above but don't worry mom, there are ones that actually show smiling faces as well! Same goes for below, I love how you can just tell what he is thinking!
He's like "seriously?"

Baby Sasha is 1

2010-04-12T10:57:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of photographing a first birthday session with this cutie Sasha last week. As I was editing these I called my husband over to look and he said, "Wow, she looks like a doll." How true is that - and coming from a guy even! We did the shoot at the family home in Viera. She was truly a joyful child. We figured out music was key so any time she seemed fussy or bored her parents found whatever object they could grab that plays music (pretty much all toys do that now, a ploy by Duracell I'm sure, but one that worked out in Sasha's best interest!) This girl knows how to BOOGIE DOWN. It was awesome, you should have been there. Oh and the smash cake will speak for itself... she loved it. Make sure you click the first one up there so you can see the perfectly placed bubbles (ha, get it, like I put them there?) The collages here are often ordered as 10x20 prints for framing or mounted to a stand out or canvas for hanging.

IN LOVE WITH THIS ONE.

the key to a perfect lawn: pink mower and just the right dance moves

Finishing off the cake to a little Elmo Radio.

The Rutherford's

2010-04-07T21:36:00.000-07:00

Before I meet a new client for a session I usually do a quick scan of all our emails to get a good handle on everything we have discussed and just a general feeling of the people I'm about to finally meet (assuming we haven't met before.) When I did my search for emails from the Rutherford family, I realized they went back to before Bradyn was born and he is now 6mths old! I was reminded that due to his mom's bed rest and his early arrival, things were put on hold. I was reminded that to his mommy he is a miracle baby -and that just got me excited. We met in Melbourne Beach and got in some time with the grandparents (they are sooo googly eyed over Bradyn but then who wouldn't be and seriously you can't call yourself a grandparent is you aren't -seriously, it is a basic requirement.) So... the highlights...

googlies.

Will I ever get enough of baby feet? No. Will you get sick of seeing them on the blog? I don't care. I love them with the kind of unconditional love that doesn't even mind if they are stinky. In fact, I can admit that I even enjoy the stink of my two year old's sweaty "pigs" (as we fondly call the conventional "piggies.") There is a certain age, around 5-7 years for me, that these sweet things become less appealing but will forever hold a special place in my heart. Thank God I will be getting some niece and nephew pigs to enjoy by the time mine are all grown up. And then there is always your kids but I feel like kissing their feet is probably crossing the line in our relationship, so I refrain.

mwah.

Baby Ethan

2010-04-06T10:44:00.001-07:00

I photographed this sweet newborn last week in his home and he was so content during the whole session (well until he got hungry!) He was just at 10 days old I believe which is great because I always recommend if you are scheduling a newborn session that you do it in the first ten days. His mommy had called me from the hospital after he was born - she was smart to plan ahead!

Who says newborns don't smile?

I love this one

hmmm he looks like he might be hungry...

Yep he's hungry!

Jenna and Dave's Wedding

2010-04-05T18:41:00.001-07:00

Ahhhh, last week was a whirl of wedding, family and baby sessions and Spring Break at the Gray home as well! My family had some good times together in the midst of my husband and I juggling work. We went to the zoo one day, the beach and of course celebrated Easter! I hope to get some pics up soon of the kids! For now, I am excited to let all my clients from last week see their highlights here on the blog plus I am on a mission this week and next to complete 4 custom wedding album designs! Bear with me!

Jenna and Dave had beautiful weather on their wedding day. Good thing since they were married on the beach! Seriously this was the kind of good weather that happens right after lots of not-so-exciting weather and makes you want to buy a convertible. I didn't do it even though the sign that said I could have one if I brought in my W-2. Although I did end up buying a mac book from Dave and he didn't even have a sign like that.

I designed the images below for Jenna and Dave as custom album spreads for my 12x12 lay flat books. Enjoy!

I always blog the girls so this one is for the boys!

Melbourne Community Church

2010-03-29T11:47:00.000-07:00

Hey we love our church and wanted to invite you to our Easter services this Sunday at 9am or 10:45am!
Here is a fun slideshow I put together to give you a preview!
4940 Stack Boulevard Melbourne 32901