The Newmans

This family session was shot a few weeks ago, while Huntsville was experiencing some pretty intense cooler temperatures. On the plus side, it meant rosy cheeks and no other photographers volleying for the many nice locations in downtown. I was able to shoot this session quickly, plus, the light was fan-tastic. There's nothing quite like winter light. Sure it's cold, and summer is warm. But summer can be so harsh in the south, with a blaring sun and air so humid walking feels like swimming. During a southern summer, the second you're out of the shower, you're sweating again. One never truly feels clean in the hotter months (or really, I never feel clean, maybe I'm not alone in this). Massive digression...

ANYWAY, I've always been partial to shooting in the cold, and the Newman family did wonderfully. They didn't complain a bit. In fact, there was a lot of smiling and laughing, even from their little Addie. All she wanted to do was walk and explore, aided by her two pleasant parents.

Nana came along to keep the little miss comfy and happy in the car during Mom and Dad's photos, which was so helpful. Any parent knows how wonderful loving help can be, even with such a good little girl like this one.

Thank you, Nathan, Megan, Susan, and little Addie for braving the cold and letting me photograph your genuine smiles and rosy cheeks!

Merry Christmas!

Wishing you all a fantastic holiday season! 

Merry Christmas from from us to you :-)

---

Ty

Ty, Class of 2015.

A young man, with a commendable future of service.

"...I will always be on time to relieve,
and shall endeavor to do more,
rather than less, than my share.
I will always be at my station,
alert and attending to my duties.
I shall, so far as I am able,
bring to my seniors solutions, not problems.
I shall live joyously,
but always with due regard for the rights and
privileges of others.
I shall endeavor to be a model citizen in the
community in which I live.
I shall sell my life dearly to my enemy fire but give
it freely to rescue those in peril.
With God’s help,
I shall endeavor to be one of His noblest Works."

-from the (NYC Firefighter's Creed)

Beryl

This girl. I've met many who know her. All of them love her.

She's the kind of person who draws others in by her sweet smile, but also by the conviction behind those dark eyes. 

She is a person of purpose, action, and accomplishment. Beryl, while not from the US, has immersed herself in this culture in such a way to leave her mark. She has the makings of greatness.

“Dwell on the beauty of life. Watch the stars, and see yourself running with them.”

-Marcus Aurelius

Matt & Emily Engaged

Two people brought together completely unexpectedly at a party. Neither one is looking for the other. An attachment is formed naturally, and a friendship grows into something more.

If you watch Matt & Emily for any period of time, you can tell just how much they mean to each other. He cares deeply for her, and she for him. There's a tender sincerity, between them, but also an air of ease. They function together well. It's the kind of foundation forever should be built upon.

The perfect backdrop for this engagement session was a church- the church where Matt's paternal grandmother worked as a seamstress her entire life. Then, the church's garden, where her ashes were scattered when she passed. Afterwards, the downtown area, only streets away from where Matt grew up.

Next May, these two will wed in another sentimental place: the backyard of Emily's childhood home.  I get the privilege of photographing this beautiful moment.

In life, you truly do find those things, those special and rich things, when you aren't looking.

Erin

Erin, a junior firefighter for one of the local communities, has such a great disposition.  Self-reliant and hard-working, she's the type to get the job done. She has a kind heart and beautiful smile.

Honestly, she's kind of girl younger ones should look up to. It was an absolute pleasure to photograph her in this special time of life.

With confidence, you have won before you have started.
~Marcus Garvey

Nikki & Greg

If you can't tell by the photos, Nikki & Greg are a whole lot of fun. Her warmth and his mischievous demeanor form a perfect chemistry. 

I wish you two the best in life.

 May you never stop having a good time together :-)

Nathan & Casey Wed!

Anyone who's ever been married or participated in a wedding knows just how crazy of a time the hours leading up to the ceremony can be. Even the reception is often a blur, with constant interaction, well wishes, food, dancing, flashing lights (sorry guys!), etc. But man- this couple handled their day with absolute grace. Nathan and Casey were relaxed and collected. (I'm not just saying that because Casey is a dear friend, they really were) What impressed me the most was their awareness of guests and those involved. They wanted everyone to enjoy themselves. For me, the day felt like it was for all, not just the happy couple. 

Nathan & Casey, thank you for letting me photograph your special day along side Jennifer of Set Sail Photography, who is a great gal to work with for sure. I'm pretty sure you guys have spoiled me with this whole wedding business.

Pssst... The regular slideshow is down here! 

Adam

Adam is reserved young man with a dry sense of humor and a fancy for all things British. He may seem quiet, but his mind is not. You can definitely tell. He's always thinking, always planning (he's picked engineering as a possible career- a great fit, if you ask me). Adam also has a dream to relocate to England. Since I'm all for the realization of dreams, best of luck to you, Adam! Hopefully you end up across the pond, or wherever you want to be!

Ariel

In Hebrew, Ariel means "lion of God."

She is fierce, strong, and independent. 

She's determined and capable, with just a hint of mischief in the mix.

A fiery, blue-eyed young woman with a plan.

What's in a name? Quite a bit, apparently.