This sweet couple holds a special place in this little photographer’s heart. They were my first — the first to entrust me with the incredible honor of telling the story of one of the most memorable days of their lives. At the time, I was a student with mostly rented and borrowed equipment, a basic knowledge of photo post-production, a shocking lack of physical stamina for the amount of gear I was carrying around — and a huge, absolutely heaping dose of heart. Thank goodness they saw some potential in me, and what an a amazing couple with whom to kick off this journey.
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waiting for baby
There was a time when I came home from work each day feeling unfulfilled and restless. I felt disconnected and uninspired, and I wondered how my educational journey — which had molded and sustained me — had led me to a string of nine-to-fives that left me feeling so blasé about my role in the world. It was aggravating, on good days; on bad, simply demoralizing.
Now, my every morning presents an entirely different scenario. I have rediscovered my fondness for storytelling, and find great joy in presenting the beauty in others’ lives through my unique and imperfect perspective. What a privilege, really, to gain that kind of access: to share tender moments and witness others’ humanity at such a close distance.
before she weds
In days of old, when it was rare for couples to have their nuptials photographed, it wasn’t at all uncommon for a bride’s family to commission a photographer in advance of the wedding to create bridal portraits to commemorate the occasion. You’ve seen them – faded but treasured family heirlooms tucked away in your grandparents’ albums; blushing brides in black and white.
A modern take on this custom lives on today, mainly south of the Mason-Dixon line. I had the opportunity to capture bridals for Kelli on a very cold day this winter, just days before she wed — and what an afternoon it was. She was all smiles and butterflies, wearing her gown for the first time, and realizing how soon she would become a Mrs. Thank you, Kelli, for braving the snow and frigid air to grab some beauties in the oh-so-lovely winter light. You were a vision! xo
expecting mamas everywhere…
It’s been a long winter, and despite the lingering snow on the ground, signs of spring are everywhere: elementary schools are hosting car washes, joggers have cast off their extra layers, and cafés are offering outdoor seating.
But the telltale sign of an enduring winter — we all know it, and it just happens to be my favorite — are all the sweet little baby bumps that emerge from unbuttoned trench coats and light cotton sweaters on the first day that pea coats and parkas are discarded for the season. Bellies of all shapes and sizes, donning corals and whites and lavenders, blossoming beautifully toward the warmth of the spring sun. And this year, expecting mamas seem to be e v e r y . w h e r e .
sea gulls & snuggles: an Annapolis engagement
I get it now. There’s a reason why everyone loves Annapolis. And, having grown up on the sea, I understand why people flock to harbor towns during the summer. But for the same reason, I also know why these charming little towns are such hidden gems in the winter: they are peaceful — deserted, except for the sea gulls — and they are breathtaking.
Annapolis is no different. It sparkles under the late afternoon winter sun. The water near the pier is a deep green-blue beneath the frosty glass that covers it. Boats are moored amidst cracking ice, and people say hello to each other from behind their scarves.
