D&J Photography

Why I Use a Flash!

2010-01-30T14:25:00.000-08:00

As I work on gearing up for the 2010 wedding season and getting caught up on 2009 wedding album design, the blog has really suffered. So I thought I would try posting a series of thoughts on photography to fill the void until I can find more time to get some images posted.

As we move into the 2010 wedding season, I thought I would try my hat at a little educational piece about flash photography. Quite simply, I think flash has been getting a bad rap lately. With today's high-ISO cameras and fancy Photoshop actions, it's easy to get lazy and let the camera and computer do all the work for you. So this past year, I made a conscious effort to buck the trend and work on more complex lighting techniques to pull into my wedding and portrait work.

The fact is that most available light work is flat by definition. A properly used flash brings dimension back to an image. Plus, I can control, shape and modify my light source to create exactly the kind of image I desire.

Take this image, for example - one of my favorites. It was taken in a dark cove with a bright back lit lake. I used a portable studio strobe so that I could get a nice, rich exposure on the background while also properly exposing my subject. I also got gorgeous shadowing and depth on her face (which also serves to provide shape and detail). Shooting without the flash would have resulted in a flat image with a blown out background.

Here's more of a side-by-side comparison to illustrate what I mean by flat images versus images with depth and shadow.

Here's an image with a light positioned camera left. This angle and addition of the light allowed me to get rich shadow detail on the stonework and a nice blue sky in the background.

This image is shot with available light only. While I like it, notice how flat it is compared to the other one. Nothing sets this image apart. There are hundreds just like it. The background sky is white, not blue and there is little pulling the subject away from my background.

Likewise, using a flash allows me to make the sun a more flexible lighting tool. In these senior portraits, I used the sun as a effective back light. Using the mobile studio light as a key light, I was able to get rich, detailed foregrounds without blowing out the backdrop. Notice the added shadow areas that outline the subjects and pull them away from the background, giving life to the image.

So if you're in the market for a photographer, make sure you ask some questions about flash photography. Make sure that even if they are an available light shooter by trade that they know how to whip out a flash if they need one and can use it properly. You never know when it may be needed. Make sure to ask your photographer if they could take you out for a portrait at 1 or 2pm in the middle of summertime and get detailed shots with rich and balanced exposure. After all, aren't a lot of summer wedding formals taking place at that time? And what about the romantic but dark reception hall you booked with the high ceilings? Something to think about...

Oh, and while you're at it, ask how many flashes they will bring to your wedding...and cameras...and other backup equipment. More about that in a future post.

-D.

Raising Money for Haiti

2010-01-21T19:02:00.000-08:00

This Saturday and Sunday, D&J Photography will be leading an effort to raise funds for Haiti humanitarian relief. Please come out, make a donation and support the effort!

For more information, visit our Facebook page HERE.

OR at

www.charlotteansforhaiti.com.

All $100+ donations will be rewarded with a 16x20 print.

We hope to see you there!

D&J Photography Wins Second Straight Bride's Choice Award

2010-01-19T17:19:00.000-08:00

WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, just announced D&J Photography has been selected to receive the 2010 Bride’s Choice Awards™ for Premier Wedding Photography for the second year in a row.

The annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ recognizes and celebrates excellence in quality and service within the wedding industry, as determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from over 500,000 newlyweds.

D&J Photography is among the top five percent of all vendors in the WeddingWire community, which includes over 100,000 wedding professionals across the US and Canada. Awards were given to winners across 19 different service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers.

“We are excited to recognize and honor the success of the top wedding professionals within the WeddingWire Community” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “The annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program has given us the unique opportunity to highlight the best wedding professionals in each region as reviewed by brides and grooms who have utilized their services in the past year.”

We are happy to announce that D&J Photography is among the very best Wedding Photographers within the WeddingWire Network, which includes WeddingWire and Martha Stewart Weddings. We would like to thank our past newlyweds for nominating us for the 2010 Bride’s Choice Awards™.

For more information, please visit our WeddingWire Storefront today.

About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 100,000 reviewed wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding photographers to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools in the Weddings section of www.MarthaStewartWeddings.com. For additional information, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.

Show me the BLOG!

2009-12-31T06:54:00.000-08:00

Wow, between the end of the year rush of weddings and portraits and holiday time with my family (not to mention a couple of yucky colds) the blog has really fallen off the radar.

I've been playing around with some more fun and interesting blogging options as I ready myself for my new brand and website in 2010 and came up with a unique style of blogging that will fit well with the new look and feel we're after.

Here's a sample of what we're up to - hope you enjoy it!

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-13T11:11:00.000-08:00

Bess - A Country-Style Bridal Session

2009-10-20T18:40:00.000-07:00

Bess is a natural beauty with an earthy style, so we chose a rustic country location for her bridal portraits.

I hope you enjoy this sample set from her bridal portrait session as much as I do!

Another Successful Cyber Romance

2009-10-18T19:05:00.000-07:00

As a product of online romance myself, I love stories of people who meet online and fall in love. After exchanging some online messages, Alexandra and Jerry talked for over 4 hours the first time they spoke on the phone. Two days later, they had their first date and have been together ever since.

Their beautiful country wedding at Hodgin Valley Farm was the perfect start to a wonderful life together.

I hope you enjoy this collection of photos from their wedding day.

Our beautiful bride, all ready to go!

This place is one of North Carolina's prettiest wedding venues...

Alexandra was given away by her mother...

Fancy moon shot. Ask me how I did it sometime...

Congratulations, Alexandra & Jerry!

Kari's Bridal Portraits

2009-10-08T18:08:00.000-07:00

So the lovely Kari Lucisani married Cute Kyle Quinn this past weekend. (All the girls told me to call him that). I think you will all agree that Kari is one incredibly beautiful bride. I won't comment on Kyle's apparent cuteness. (Check out their June blog to decide for yourself!)

Here's a few of my favorites from her bridal session...wedding photos soon to follow:

We're Not Afraid of A Little Rain!

2009-09-22T17:38:00.000-07:00

Rain or shine, if you're getting married, we'll be there ready to roll!

Yours truly, from this past WET weekend...

Ciara's Bridal Portraits

2009-09-20T16:14:00.000-07:00

Now that Ciara & Levi are married, I can post a few of Ciara's amazing bridal portraits. It was a ridiculously hot summer day when we shot these and I credit Ciara for her stamina. We did some traditional shots but I've been waiting to showcase these more high-impact ones for awhile, so here they are! I'm looking forward to posting the pictures from their misty and drizzly and incredibly romantic wedding day in the mountains at Leatherwood. More to come on that...

Meagan & Ying

2009-09-01T16:20:00.000-07:00

Remember Meagan's bridal portrait post from back in July?

It is a pleasure to share these photographs from her wedding day and marriage to Ying Vang in Newton, NC. The two are an incredibly nice, young couple and it was an honor to photograph their wedding day for them!

The day started off with the amazing artistry of Kymm McClean of Who's the Fairest.

I had a fun time hanging out with these girls. Who needs a big giant photo booth when you've got fun people like this?

Yeah, the funky sunglasses made their rounds...

Isn't this a beautiful dress?

A few more getting ready photographs...

Saint Martin's Evangelical Lutheran Church

I couldn't decide where to photograph the rings...so...a little variety never hurts.

Ying came by to bring the girls some food. Of course, he wasn't allowed to see his bride. But holding hands from the other side of the door is certainly allowed.

Meagan's mom helping with her daughter's dress...

Some nervous fiddling...

And giggling...

Until the big moment finally arrived...

Congratulations Meagan & Ying!

Also a special Thank You to the Peacock Inn for their great service and for allowing us to use the Inn for Meagan's Bridal Portraits.

Amy & Patrick

2009-08-25T19:17:00.000-07:00

Amy and Patrick's wedding was an especially fun day for me because they were married at the Dairy Barn in Fort Mill - which is where Jennifer and I got married over almost 6 years ago.

The day started with Amy getting her makeup done by her rather talented sister. I was quite impressed.

Gorgeous rings...

Beautiful dress:

Beautiful bride:

Great friends:

Beautiful ceremony:

Good times:

And one messy exit...I think Amy and Patrick will be the first to recommend NOT using these disposable exploding streamers. It was like running through a giant, thick web of 1980's audio tape. Very messy and they actually got stuck in it! Great memories, though...

Congratulations Amy and Patrick!

Tamara & Andrew's Wedding and My Homecoming to State College, PA

2009-08-08T20:08:00.000-07:00

Tamara is my first friend in life. When I was 2 years old, I proudly introduced our two families by biting her. Despite the rude introduction, our families have remained close over the years and it was an honor for me to witness her marriage to LONG time...and I mean LONG time boyfriend Andrew.

When two people have been together so long that people actually forget they aren't even married, it is always a surprise when they suddenly decide to legally tie the not. Given that they have been together for so long, Tamara and Andrew opted for a simple affair at their father's home in State College, PA. I grew up in State College, A.K.A. Happy Valley, also known as Lion Country and home to Penn State University (ranked #8 in this year's pre-season poll, by the way - but I digress).

Anyway, I hope you enjoy some of these images from their special day as well as a few images of Bella attending her very first wedding. I forgot how beautiful a place State College is. I guess you don't fully appreciate a place until you're away a long time.

Here's Bella and momma ready to get the show on the road...

Meet Andrew:

Here he is getting the wedding music ready...

Meet Tamara, escorted by her children...

Their personable ceremony was a blend of Jewish and Quaker traditions.

There were several readings. This one was performed by Tamara's father, a professor of Leisure Studies. I realize that has nothing to do with anything, I just always thought it was really cool that he got paid to be an expert in something we all enjoy doing. Sweet...

A few shots of Bella in front of Mount Nittany.

Our newlyweds.

And more Bella...

They danced the night away...

And so did Bella with Auntie Daria...

What trip to Penn State would be complete without paying homage to the Lion Shrine? Bella doesn't know it yet, but she's already a Penn State fan! This is, by the way, one of the few times you will see my mug online...ha ha!

Nikki at Rocky River Vineyards

2009-07-25T16:51:00.000-07:00

All I can say about Nikki is wow. W. O. W.

Yolanda & Robin - Married!!!

2009-07-19T08:19:00.000-07:00

Remember my "Rural Mid-West Meets Urban East Coast" couple, Yolanda & Robin? Their wedding at the Hilton in Uptown Charlotte, NC was a blast! Their two families definitely know how to party. I ran my butt off trying to keep up with these guys! But I had a great time doing it. Yolanda - I hope you're still planning to do your TTD session!

Yolanda checking out the goods...girl, you look good!

An anxious Robin waiting to walk to the altar...

This was one of the most dramatic entrances I've ever seen. Very cool.

This was definitely a picture-taking group! I like that.

Meagan's Bridal Portraits

2009-07-19T07:52:00.000-07:00

Meagan and Ying are finally married so I can post some highlights from Meagan's beautiful bridal gallery for her. She did her portraits at the Peacock Inn in Newton, NC - which is also where the two married. I look forward to getting those online for you soon.

Isn't Meagan just breathtaking?

Fun with Bella

2009-07-17T20:13:00.000-07:00

After her bath tonight, Bella was being really silly. So I grabbed my brand-new Ultra-wide angle lens and grabbed a few quick snapshots before she decided to get sleepy for bedtime. She was really hamming it up tonight!

Kristin's Bridal

2009-07-13T20:06:00.001-07:00

Remember Kristin's fun engagement shoot with Dustin? Part II of her wedding package was practically a Trash the Dress session, considering all the locations we covered in such a short amount of time. Now that she is married, I can finally share these with you.

Kristin was so incredibly beautiful in her dress that I felt like this was a matter of point and shoot for me (don't tell my assistant - I made him work his butt off dragging my lights around). But seriously, we had a great time taking this collection, which I think captures Kristin's lighthearted personality and creative flair. I hope you enjoy these select images from her bridal collection!

PS - I will be posting their wedding pictures soon!

These next two shots are the reason I bring lights with me when I shoot.

D&J Photography Sets Trends with Trash the Dress Photography

2009-07-06T16:13:00.000-07:00

Channel 14 News tried to reach me recently to interview us for a story about Trash the Dress here in Charlotte. That day was one of my busiest days this summer, so I was not able to take the call. Unfortunately, that meant I missed their story deadline! But if you saw the video, you may have noticed our pictures from the Carolina Bride issue that not only featured my work but seems to have renewed interest in this trend that we started here in Charlotte a couple of wedding seasons ago (view that article here).

So I thought I would take the time to post some of my favorite TTD images from the past. The trend is still strong and we have several brides expressing interest in doing a session this year, so stay tuned!

...and one Trash the Photographer...(yep, that's me!)

Happy July 4th Everyone!

2009-07-03T19:03:00.000-07:00

From Bella and the rest of us, to you! :)

Michlene & Stephen

2009-06-28T07:49:00.000-07:00

Michlene and Stephen decided to get their engagement portraits done at Belmont Abbey. I'm so glad they did. It's a gorgeous place with amazing structures, trees, walkways, rolling lawns and amazing evening light that is just plain beautiful. We took advantage of just about everything to give them what I think is a collection that clearly shows how in love the two of them are. And let's not forget about our pal Barley, who even had his own little portrait session along the way.

Thanks Michlene and Stephen for a great time! I'm looking forward to doing Michlene's bridal portraits right here back at the Abbey.

Technically flawed as can be, but I think this is a fun one!

Kari & Kyle

2009-06-27T12:54:00.000-07:00

Kari and Kyle wanted some fun outdoor shots with lots of variety. Kyle also likes old cars. We've got plenty of old clunkers around the studio, so we started there and headed on out around the area. I did not realize what a goofball Kyle is, as you'll see in some of the shots from our session together. We had a great time and I think it's going to be a really fun wedding. I have already been warned that Kyle's groomsmen will be just as goofy as he is. So get ready for some really fun shots later this year from this couple!

Tiffany and Mark

2009-06-12T18:12:00.000-07:00

Tiffany and Mark were married on May 15th on what started out as yet another rainy Saturday as so many have been this year. But the clouds started to clear as the ceremony began outside at the Hilton University and just as Tiffany stepped out from the doorway, the sun began to shine. Now how's that for the perfect wedding day story?

I hope you enjoy these samples from their wedding day.

Congratulations Tiffany and Mark!

My Little Cheerleader

2009-05-31T14:50:00.000-07:00

Bella is almost 1 year old! Isn't it amazing how quickly time flies? I got her this Penn State Cheerleader outfit soon after she was born and it's already getting too small on her. Since Bella can now stand as long as she has something to hold onto, we figured we would grab a few quick shots today before she grows out of this oufit.

Ciara & Levi

2009-05-30T10:29:00.000-07:00

Ciara and I met a few years back, when I photographed her friend Jeannette's wedding in St. John. I could not have been more thrilled for her to learn that she was getting married to a great guy like Levi. Despite being a bit under-the-weather with a cold, Ciara had a great time with Levi for their engagement sesion, and the photos below show it.

I'm looking forward to Ciara's bridal portraits later this year - and, of course, their wedding!

Laura & Robert

2009-05-27T19:31:00.000-07:00

Laura & Robert are an incredibly nice couple that have been a pleasure to work with. They are getting married later this year in October, so it was time to do their engagement session so they could get their Save the Date magnets out. We took advantage of the area near and around our studio space. There is so much variety in terms of backdrops and I think the blending of traditional posing and non-traditional backdrops works for them and their personalities. Thanks, Laura and Robert, for being willing to move around so much to get some great shots. I'm looking forward to Laura's bridal session!

Here's some highlights of our session, along with a copy of their Save the Date magnet.

Not Your Typical Engagement

2009-05-27T19:09:00.000-07:00

Meeting Kristin and Dustin for their wedding consultation, I knew we were all going to have a great time working together. The two are friends with previous clients of mine, so I already was somewhat acquainted with them. But after speaking with them about their ideas for an engagement session, I knew this was going to be fun. We had planned to do a bunch of shots outside around old, crumbling buildings, but as with most days this year, it was pouring rain. Not to be discouraged, we went below our studio space and had fun with some of the junk down there. It was a blast and definitely not your typical engagement session. Thanks, Kristin and Dustin for a great time.

And finally, a 7/4 wedding with these two will be a real "blast". Okay, is that cheesy or what...I'm obviously not any good with puns.

Alisa & Brad - Engagement

2009-05-03T18:47:00.000-07:00

Alisa & Brad will be getting married in October of this year. Although they will be marrying here in Charlotte, they decided to use their current home of Savannah, Georgia for their engagement pictures. Given the distance to Charlotte, and the fact that Alisa also wanted me to do her bridal portraits, we decided to have a marathon day of photography - engagement portraits at sunrise and bridal portraits closer to sunset. I cannot believe the stamina Alisa displayed all day (we'll talk more about that when I get to share her bridal portraits in October). I have no doubt their wedding day will be a blast. Oh - props to Brad, too. He did, after all, have to get up early to see the sunrise. I think this was the first time we had all seen the sunrise in quite some time, actually.

So ladies, tell me - would YOU have your hair and makeup done at 4am to get shots like these? Come on - I'm game! Let's do it!

After sunrise, we spent a couple of hours around town as well. If you go to Savannah, make sure you visit the fountain at Forsyth Park.

I think they call this spot the Aroma Garden:

And there is no shortage of amazing architecture...a photographer's dream location!

Yes, I like the kissing pictures. Here's another.

And another kissing picture to say goodbye! ;)

Stacey & Thomas

2009-04-22T19:04:00.000-07:00

Stacey and Thomas booked with us over a year before their wedding day and I shot their engagement and Stacey's bridal portraits last year. So I've been dying to get them online for everyone to see.

We shot their engagement session in various locations and had a blast moving from place to place. It also gave us lots of variety.

Stacey looked so beautiful out there, I could not resist the opportunity to get Thomas a nice wallet shot of her alone. Isn't she simply stunning?

Pets are always a welcome addition to engagement portraits. If you are thinking about it, let me know and we'll make sure we work it into your session.

Stacey decided to have her bridal portraits done at the Van Landingham Estate, which is also where the wedding took place.

This shot below encorporates a few home-grown editing actions. I love the soft focus and canvas feel it gives.

Gotta love that smile!

And some highlights from the wedding:

Thomas started the morning out by sending a touching note to his bride-to-be.

The rings...

Stacey's mom helping her with her dress, then getting a little emotional when it all sinks in...

The girls:

The boys:

The wedding:

The gang:

Our newleyweds:

Good times...

I love this shot...two beers and a beautiful bride in your hands...can life be any better?

Best of luck, Stacey & Thomas...now let's go "Trash the Dress"...

Seniors Rule!

2009-04-09T20:20:00.000-07:00

D&J Photography has decided to take a leap into the Senior Portrait business. We plan to market those services under our new "Fotoglyphics" brand. More to come on that...

Anyway, I hope this gives you an idea of what I've been doing in my free time away from wedding season...

Enjoy!

-D.

D&J Photography wins a 2009 Bride's Choice Award!

2009-02-03T17:10:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all of our wonderful clients and their amazing reviews of our services. Because of your awesome raves, we were selected for a Bride's Choice Award from WeddingWire.com! We are very greatful for the recognition you have given us and feel fortunate to have had yet another good year in 2008. We are also excited about 2009 as we have an amazing list of clients so far and cannot wait to start doing some engagement sessions as soon as things warm up a bit! 2009 is shaping to be a great year and we are glad to have you be a part of it!

-D.

Official Press Release:

WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, just announced that D&J Photography has won the 2009 Bride’s Choice Awards™!

In its inaugural year, the Bride’s Choice Awards recognizes and honors vendors from the WeddingWire Network that demonstrate excellent quality of service, responsiveness, professionalism, value of cost and flexibility. This year’s recipients represent the top three percent of WeddingWire’s vendor community, which includes over 100,000 wedding vendors from across the US. That means D&J Photography is one of the very best Wedding Photographers!

Unlike other awards in which winners are selected by the company, the Bride’s Choice Awards are determined exclusively by recent newlyweds through surveys and reviews.

“We are excited to launch this annual award program to honor high-performing vendors based solely on the experiences of our WeddingWire community,” according to Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “This year’s recipients have set the bar high, exhibiting excellent service and expertise in the wedding industry.”

D&J Photography would like to thank our past clients for speaking on our behalf and helping us win the 2009 Bride’s Choice Award!

Bella at 7 months (and a couple weeks)

2009-02-01T19:37:00.000-08:00

Today was such a great day out it felt like Spring! Nice break from the cold, so we took Bella outside for a few quick shots marking her 7th month. Wow...she will almost be a year old. We cannot believe it!

2009-01-18T05:44:00.000-08:00

Come visit our booth at the Bridal Showcase Sunday, January 25th!

Join The Bridal Showcase Sunday, January 25, 2009 12pm-5pm for North and South Carolina’s largest bridal event! Come see over one hundred wedding professionals as they showcase their products and services. The Bridal Showcase in Charlotte, NC is held twice a year at The Charlotte Convention Center and is sponsored by Belk Department Stores, Party Reflections Inc, and Carolina Bride Magazine. Don't miss the grand finale fashion show presented by MW Tux and David's Bridal.

Watch a preview! May take a moment to load but is worth the wait!Fashion, photography, honeymoons, flowers, catering, bakers, rentals, and plenty more… there’s something for everyone. Brides & Grooms, register now online, get $2 off admission, and become eligible for gifts, including a grand prize honeymoon vacation!

To learn more visit The Bridal Showcase Website!

Congratulations Holly & David

2009-01-16T19:37:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe that it has been a year since Holly and David first contacted me to photograph their wedding. It's been a fun year getting to know them.

We did their engagement portraits way back in March of 2008. We had a blast, making use of the colorful walls of NoDa and even got "lucky" with a serious downpour at the end of our session.

For her bridal portraits, Holly chose an old burned-down church. The old stone ruins were a perfect complement to her retro-style dress. We also took her inside the studio for a shot in our leather booth, also playing on that retro style. Kym McClean of Who's the Fairest once again did an amazing job with her styling.

Then we also headed down to the tracks to catch a train...

Here it comes...

Here's a few of my favorites from wedding day:

I have never seen a bride call an audible with her hairstyle just a few hours from the Ceremony. But, Holly is not your average bride and went with a different look at the last minute. That's impressive! And she totally pulled it off and looked absolutely amazing. Hat's off to the team at All About You for improvising along with the bride.

Here she is thinking about it...

Happy with her choice, they put on the veil. No turning back now!

Here's Kym doing the final touches...

Congratulations Amy and Jonathan!

2009-01-11T17:42:00.000-08:00

Okay, it is a bit late to post your blog, but better late than never!

Here are a few shots from their engagement session. Amy preferred studio work for all her images, but wanted an upbeat style, not traditional portraiture. Jonathan likes what she likes (good man). So, the goal was high-energy and fun versus traditional portraiture.

Amy also wanted studio portraits for her bridal session. She had her heart set on B&W images. It's not something my brides are usually after, so it was a welcome change of pace! Amy makes such an extraordinarily beautiful bride and because she wanted more traditional portraiture, I chose dramatic and hard lighting to really make sure her images stood out.

Here's some "Hollywood style" lighting and film grain...

One of my favorite smiles from the bride:

I like this pose because it showcases her figure and the back of her dress:

And now some shots from the big day:

I love this picture of the girls clowning around before the Ceremony. They were a cool group!

Father and daughter share a kiss before the Ceremony begins:

A little practice run down the aisle before guests arrived:

And now for the real thing:

Jonathan anxiously awaits the arrival of his bride:

The church does not allow photography from the Santuary, so I had to grab the shot over the bride's shoulder of Jonathan watching Amy come down the aisle, then quickly run upstairs to the balcony to catch her father give her away...whew, there was no time to spare.

Their reception was held at The Mint Museum of Charlotte.

Merry Christmas!!!

2008-12-13T09:50:00.001-08:00

From Darren, Jennifer & Bella Cassese

Thanks to fellow photographer Troy Tomlinson of Flaming Chicken Studio for taking this image of our family for us.

The Forest of Hands and Teeth

2008-11-15T19:15:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited to read this book in March 2009. Please check out this author's website and watch the trailer for the book. It promises to be a fun read.

I provided all the photographs of the author, Carrie Ryan.

-Darren

http://www.carrieryan.com/

Bride Returns to Childhood Home for Romantic Wedding

2008-11-13T20:10:00.000-08:00

As the old saying goes...Good things come to those who wait. And so it was with Kristin and Jeff. Kristin waited 40 years to find her soul mate. It also gave her plenty of time to plan the perfect wedding at her family home in Kiawah Island, SC.

What an amazing setting for a wedding of extraordinary families. It was a pleasure to witness the union of these two wonderful people.

Congratulations, Kristin and Jeff! I look forward to working with you on your album!

I also thought I would share some of the wonderful comments that Kristin & Jeff's family and friends have made about their wedding collection. Thanks for all the kind words, everyone! It was my pleasure!

*Your photographs are absolutely lovely. The photographers were worth every penny--the best wedding photos I have ever seen! They captured the heart and spirit of your beautiful day. I was so surprised of how many different places and emotions were caught on film. I love, love, love the photos of you and Jeff on the golf course during the day and at sunset. I see that one framed in his office (a definite plus given his profession). My next favorite was the one when you were coming down the stairs and the look in your dad's eyes--breathtaking! Of course there are the quirky ones with your school friends--what the heck were you all doing? When did you do all that? How funny! Thanks so much for sharing you day with us and reminding us of the important things in life.

*I'm speechless. Those are the most exquisite wedding photos I've ever seen. However much you paid them, it was worth it! I looked at the highlight reel. Haven't gone through the other one yet, and I thought the highlight pics were just wonderful. The lighting is so good and the subjects, well, just gorgeous!!, of course. I love the one of you and your Dad hugging at the bottom of the stairs in the hotel and the one of Jeff looking lovingly at you coming down the stairs. That's some tricky lighting there - indoors with those super high ceilings, and the photographers did a great job. You all have such nice expressions.
I also really like the outdoor one of you alone on the lawn from the waist up (I think) with your veil blowing a bit in front of you. Great shot. You look like a movie star. And your dress was dynamite!!
There are several dozen other pics I just loved, but those struck me most. I like all the ones of your mom for sentimental reasons. I smile when I see those. I enjoyed so much that first trip to Kiawah when your folks were there. I feel in love with them immediately. They were wonderful to us. You are really blessed to have them. I know they are so proud of you. Your wedding was a beautiful day for us all. And it was a fun time, to boot. I enjoyed it so much. Thanks for including me in your special day.

*Kristin, Let me say one thing.....I have no idea what you paid your photographers, but a penny less wouldn't have been enough!!!!!!!!!! Your pictures are absolutely gorgeous!!!!!! I'm not saying this just because you're my friend, but these are some of the most beautiful pictures I've ever seen. I'm sure you had a hand in some of the pictures, ha ha, but you should be very proud of your team. Some of the pictures are honestly breathtaking! I can't wait to get home tonight and show them to Josh. I guess the scenery and pretty people probably helped out in taking good pictures as well, ha ha!

*Wow, what beautiful pictures! You and Jeff look fabulous, as does everything else. The photographer captured the event so well that I feel like I was there. I can tell it was definitely a magical and joyous day for you guys. I am sure it is going to be difficult to pick out your favorite ones for an album. Thanks so much for sharing. I wish you and Jeff a lifetime filled with happiness, health and magical moments similar to those created on your special day!
*Dear Kristin, I so enjoyed seeing your wedding pictures. They were so beautiful. I think the photographers captured the the wonder of the special day. How great to have those memories.
*Kristin, your pictures are absolutely gorgeous! Your photographer did a wonderful job. They are some of the nicest wedding pictures I've ever seen. You were just beautiful. I love your dress. Everything looked so elegant. You look just like your mom! It looked like you had perfect weather and Jeff is sooo handsome! You did good girl! HA

*Dear Kristin, The pictures are spectacular. Thank you so much for sharing. I have been able to relive your magical day several times.
*Absolutely beautiful pictures!! You look amazing, beautiful family and wedding!!
*Great pictures, Kristin (of course)!

Bella

2008-11-13T20:07:00.000-08:00

It's a little late but Bella wanted to say Happy Halloween! It's never too late for a picture of a baby in a pumpkin suit, don't you think?

What does a photographer do on his day off?

2008-11-13T19:43:00.000-08:00

I have lots of client blogging to catch up on...but before I do, I thought I would share some personal images as well. Plus, I haven't done a Bella update in awhile. Jennifer and I had a little mini vacation recently. And what do we do on vacation? Take pictures, of course!

It's fun to get out the point and shoot. Well, a point and shoot for me is a cheap lens on an older camera that covers a wide range of 18-200mm and automatic shooting mode so I don't have to think.

Jennifer and I took a day away from Bella (wasn't easy) and headed up to Asheville for my first-ever trip to Biltmore. Our first stop was the winery.

Biltmore wine isn't tops on my list of wines, but the Russian River Valley Pinot Noir did hit the spot.

After finishing the bottle, Jennifer got friendly with a local:

We tried some self-portraits putting the camera on my camera bag.

Then asked for a little help from a fellow tourist. She did a nice job with this shot, I think.

I like taking pictures of Jennifer. She's a lot prettier in pictures than I am.

She also likes to be goofy, which I enjoy:

By the way, does anyone know what the heck this thing is?

And last but not least, my only shot of the whole house, with Jennifer in the foreground. I guess we were too busy goofing off the whole time to really take good pictures of the grounds. Oh well!

New Photos Coming Soon!

2008-10-07T18:40:00.000-07:00

What will Darren blog about next...Stay tuned for some shots from a Kiawah Island Wedding and a Reception at the Mint Museum.

Bella is 14 weeks!

2008-09-30T16:14:00.001-07:00

She's getting so big so fast, so we decided we couldn't wait for 4 months before we took more pictures.

Kathy & Richard - Engaged

2008-09-15T19:36:00.000-07:00

OK - as you can see, Mr. Slack Daddy is behind again. I'll pick back up again with some photos of Kathy & Richard. This fun couple decided to announce their engagement by picking a gorgeous outdoor garden location. Between some brief downpours, I think we got some really great shots. I'm really looking forward to their Spring wedding!

Never let a little rain ruin a good session!

A change to casual clothes to mix it up a bit...

Amber & Justin - An Oversea Romance Comes Home

2008-08-28T14:11:00.000-07:00

Amber & Justin met when Amber was working overseas in South Africa. They quickly hit it off, but when Amber had to return to the United States, Justin quickly realized how much he loved her. A very talented musician, Justin sought recording opportunities in the States so he could follow his heart. Things finally fell into place when the two tied the knot at Morning Star Lutheran Chapel, possibly one of the cutest chapels to marry in the Charlotte Region.

I was lucky enought to meet Justin early during an engagement session here in Charlotte. I already knew Amber because I had shot her friend Christina's wedding last year. But I didn't know how playful she was until she was in Justin's arms that day! See for yourself:

Amber and I didn't get a chance to shoot her bridal portrait, although she's thinking about it...hmmm, the wedding is over...could a Trash the Dress session be on the horizon? Her friend Christina did it...Stay tuned!

Their wedding was a fun time with close family and friends present to celebrate the day. Amber used none other than Kym McClean of "Who's the Fairest" for her hair and makeup. As usual, Kym did an amazing job. Here's some shots leading up the the ceremony:

And the ceremony itself:

For those who do not know (I didn't), signing the marriage license during the actual ceremony is a tradition in South Africa.

This little butterfly hung around the ENTIRE day. It seemed like it wanted to bless Justin and Amber personally, so Justin easily coaxed it into flying up on his finger. Isn't that amazing?

The reception was held at The Pewter Rose in Charlotte. It's an elegant reception site that makes incredible food and provides stellar service.

Justin surprised Amber with a special song he had written just for her for their wedding day. It was about as touching a thing I've ever seen. Oh, and the song was great, too!

They had their first dance to it...

Then he played it for her...

Then they partied the night away!

Julie & Matt

2008-08-28T13:31:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of getting to know Julie and Matt a long time ago when we shot their engagement portraits out at Freedom Park in Charlotte. We had a great time!

I got to know Julie and a few of her bridesmaids early during our fun bridal session at the studio. Proof that Julie does know how to be serious as well as fun! Isn't she a beautiful bride?

Their wedding was held at The Embassy Suites, in Concord. It's a nice venue with contemporary styling that offers some interesting photo opportunities. The reception ballrooms are HUGE! Here are some storytellers from the wedding and reception:

Congratulations Matt & Julie!!!

Kellie & Scott - from modeling to matrimony!

2008-08-26T12:43:00.000-07:00

Kellie and Scott first met while on a modeling gig for Poffie Girls on October 22, 1997. It was love at first site but it took a whole 10 years for them to finally get engaged at the McNinch House in Charlotte, where Scott finally proposed.

This shot from our engagement session really expresses who they are...a truly fun and playful couple:

This is also one of my favorites:

Kellie made a most exceptionally beautiful bride, don't you think? Here are a few knockout shots from our bridal session together (Hair design provided by Kym McClean of "Who's the Fairest"). Kellie's Dress was from Evelyn's Bridal and Formal located in Lugoff, SC. It was a Casablanca design.

It is so much fun doing both the engagement and bridal sessions. I feel like I really get to know my clients, which makes for an exceptional wedding day experience.

Here are a few images from the wedding, which took place at South Point Baptist Church:

The beautiful flowers were by The Place for Flowers.

By the way, their wedding was a blast and featured some of the finest wedding vendors in the business. I like to give credit where credit is due.

First, the cake by Cheesecakes, Etc. YUM. No better word can describe. Simply Yum...everything Gail makes is YUM YUM YUM!

And where better to put the cake but in your new spouse's nose!

Kellie got him good, but was a good sport and let Scott have a little shot, too:

And Scott was a perfect Gentleman and cleaned it off for her:

The DJ's from, Split Second did a killer job of keeping the party going! Kellie and Scott promised to party all night with their guests and they definitely kept that promise!

All the way up until their big send-off! Bubble exits are so cool at night...

Some of the other awesome vendors that helped to make this wedding special:

The Cramer Mountain Country Club. The food is excellent and the staff runs a terrific reception.
Digital Memories Video. Greg and Ellie didn't miss a beat!

Want to be in our Blog?

2008-08-13T15:54:00.000-07:00

Some people have asked me...are you going to post a blog about us? Due to time constraints as well as the fact that I just started blogging, I am only going to be posting blogs for new events unless one is specifically requested. So, if you would like a blog started about your previous event or portrait session, let me know and I'll post something for you.

Bella at 7 weeks

2008-08-07T21:49:00.000-07:00

Today Bella turned 7 weeks and we decided to take her to the studio for a few shots. She's getting big fast so we didn't want to miss an opportunity to see her as a newborn on camera one last time.

I sense a little model in the making here. I can't beleive how much she hammed it up for the camera.

Brian & Jen

2008-08-02T07:56:00.000-07:00

Congratulations, Brian & Jen! This was a fun wedding with a really sweet couple with terrific families. Brian was a true romantic, showering his bride to be with sweet hand-made gifts and notes that made her cry. The Best Man did a good job by bringing in the gifts BEFORE the makeup artist finished her job!

I thorougly enjoyed witnessing the love and passion these two have for each other. Here are just a few images from the day for you to enjoy.

Destination: Outer Banks with Mallory & Blake

2008-08-01T07:33:00.000-07:00

What can I say about Mallory and Blake. They were a perfect example of young love. And they got married in style - cool, casual style, that is. This was my third wedding in the Outer Banks and I love it there. If you are thinking about a destination wedding, this is the place. They had the wedding party staying at their wedding site - The Love boat.

This is a HUGE house and perfect for hosting weddings, with one of the best back yards on the east coast.

This couple likes to have FUN and their wedding was reflective of that zest for life. Their album will be full of images that show their individuality and character. Check out the fun dirt bike shots below. I love my job!

Thanks Mallory and Blake for allowing me to take part in your wedding! Best wishes to you and your family!

The Blogger is IN, A Baby is BORN!

2008-08-01T05:21:00.000-07:00

Okay, okay...you've convinced me...I need to start blogging. Everyone always asks, why don't you have a blog? I'm lazy...I don't like to type things. But then I found out that I can send updates to my blog from my phone. That's pretty cool. My clients are also keeping tabs on me, apparently. They tell me they check my site from time to time just to see what I've been up to.

So, here's the deal...I will do my best to maintain a fun and informative blog. I'll post images from recent work and in turn, you promise to visit from time to time and keep in touch. Sound good? Sounds like fun!!! Let's get this thing going...

Oh - and I guess I should start off by saying I am the proud new father of a 6 week old girl!!! Her name is Bella Rose and she is, of course, a little angel. See for yourself!