An Image that Speaks Volumes

I show this image to people and ask them what it is that they see. I get many responses. It may be the happy look on the groom's face, the hairstyle of the bridesmaid (of all things) or I even got a comment on the videographer. But to me there is something so sweet, special and obvious that stands out to me the most. It is the Father of the Groom wiping tears away.

Ironically, when I shot this, I had no idea this was going on. Further, after speaking with this man later in the day, he was bursting with happiness and pride, and justifiably so. The Groom, which goes without saying, was absolutely the nicest, politest person. His sister was a bridesmaid, his two brothers were fun and the oldest was the best man who gave a touching toast. However, top of mind was their mother who was hospitalized at the time and could not attend the Wedding. This was a great tight family. Upon arriving home, and seeing this, I could not help but get that tightness in my throat as I looked through the series of shots to see his emotions. But I did understand the possible sadness he felt that his wife was missing the marriage of their son, which was difficult on everyone. I saw a father so proud of his son, having found happiness, and moving onto the next chapter of his life. This father should be proud. Both of his son and of the great job he did in raising him.

Amy and Brad = Married

Meeting Amy for the first time I got to know just how truly sweet she was. Through our conversations over email she was both detail oriented and so caring. During the planning process Brad was working in CA, so on most decisions, Amy was flying solo. She did it brilliantly.

Their Ceremony and Reception was held at The Stirling Guest Inn located in Reading. Which is a beautiful venue. The grounds are gorgeous.

However, it doesn't hold a candle to the Bride. Amy truly looked gorgeous on her Wedding Day and was blessed with beautiful skies and great temperatures.

The only thing that proved to be a challenge was the wind. It seemed to not be in her favor that day.

But she still could not have been happier on her Wedding Day.

Brad as well.

Their love of skiing was the central theme with each table named after a Colorado Ski Resort. I loved that!

It was a beautiful day full of friends, family and love.

Little Second Shooter

It is true, when you are three it is time to get a job. So when his girlfriend had a scheduled shoot, it just made sense that he wanted to take the lead. However, I told him he just was not ready. I do admire his drive and determination, however I just did not think that composition was there yet. But, he did shoot a few good shots, of course.

So, we had a fun shoot. Shane we able to get some shots--they were great. He loves his little friend, of course he hopped into a few shots with her. They had fun, I think he's getting to know how to work that camera and, of course, he really knows how to work the ladies.

Mike and Anne = Engaged!

Villanova Grads, Anne and Mike, had me come to their Alma Mater to shoot an Engagement Session. We laughed about college, about things like Anne hating to go to the dining hall and having to eat in front of Mike and how Anne and Mike needed to compromise on what Chapel Service they would go to. When they said the 8 vs 10, I was thinking am. No, it turns out Anne wanted to go to the late night 10p and Mike was more of an 8pm guy.

They were fun, so relaxed, they fit. I think Anne may eat in front of Mike every now and then, however, not sure if every parish offers 8p or 10p masses. They may have to go in the am.

My new Photoshop Template Experiment

I am not that well versed in Photoshop. I use it occasionally, but I have never used it for design. I crafted the below from a Wedding in late August. I think I am liking the results...

Amy and Brad = Married {Sneak Peek}

I have never met a sweeter Bride. This shot really captures her complete joy on her special day marrying Brad. More images to come!

Your Inner Ava

Ahh, Ava. That is what my son says. Her mom says it too, but with a different tone and less dreamy. You see, Ava is one of a kind. The kind of little girl that really does not care what others think and walks to the beat of her own drummer--not just a different one.

She's the kind of girl that picks up worms, wore a spiderman costume for a few weeks straight (devastated each time it was washed) and the Austin Powers movie became her favorite. Lots of girls her age LOVE the Disney Princesses, not our gal, she got that dress for Christmas and threw it over her shoulder in disgust. Oh and she loves to swing. She can swing for hours, really high (thanks to mom)! You see, Ava fears nothing and is curious about everything. She cares nothing about what you think.

When I see Ava, whether it be in her Spiderman costume, on the swings, imitating Doctor Evil or perhaps showing me a worm or bug she found, I envy her. No, not the fact that she has not filed a tax return or that she does not need a spec of makeup for an all over glow, but the way in which she views the world. She fears nothing and loves being different. It makes her laugh, it makes her--Ava.

Sometimes I think we all need to find that inner Ava. The person that we know that we can be. To explore our inner creativity and fear nothing for at least one day. If anything, spend sometime on the swings, and remember to aim high.