a little bit of whimsy photography-DC wedding photographer, maryland and virginia

My New Blog is now "Live"

2011-04-20T04:25:00.000-07:00

As promised, I'm pleased to announce.... my new blog is now up and running. I will be posting all future posts over there.. Please update your bookmarks acordingly. OK? Ready? Set..........Go!

New Blog Coming Soon!

2011-04-13T10:17:00.000-07:00

OK.. so it's time for me to make a change.. Change is good right? I am currently working on a new blog that will be up and running soon. I will let you know as soon as it's ready.. I would be remiss if I did not tell you how ecstatic I truly am..

In the meantime.. here is a sneak peek to a beautiful couple's engagement shoot that was captured earlier this week.. what fun we had and what a true pleasure it was to finally meet this great couple. Their story is just as sweet. Stay tuned..... for Denise and Derek....

Love Deeply!

2011-03-30T08:40:00.000-07:00

As wedding season gets ready to start for me I am reminded of a lot of things. The past couple of weeks have been very trying yet remarkable at the same time for me. I, like most women, always try to hold it all down within the confines of my imagination and the complexity of my very thoughts. We all do.. women that is, try to hold it all together for our families, friends, children, husbands... loved ones. We plan, cook balanced meals, clean the house, run errands, drive the kids around and around the beltway trying to make sure they are where they need to be at any given time. We hold conversations as necessary with teachers, principals, coaches, other kids parents. We try so hard to stay connected with our moms, dads, brothers, sisters, friends so that they know they are in our thoughts always. We, girlfriends/sister friends try our best to be there to support each other in our endeavors as we know how hard it is to have an endeavor. To support it for another friend tells them that we are proud of what they have done or what they are trying to do because we know how hard it is to fit anything extra for ourselves in there. We work to support our families so that they can have the best opportunities that we can afford, hoping that it is enough.. doing our level best to raise thoughtful, considerate, spiritual, level-headed, functional members of society. Home, School, relationships, grades, teachers, sports and healthy friendships are always thoughts that we contemplate daily. God, Church, spiritually, ideals, morals, values and service to others means so much to all of us, ask anyone... but often remains the most complicated... individually!
I'm not here to preach to anyone.. God knows he is still working on me but one thing is for sure and I know without reservation or hesitation... the greatest of all of these things is LOVE!....for without it there is really nothing. We all need it, seek it, desire it, depend on it. Personally, it's like breathing. It brings me joy and has the capacity to make me sad. One thing I do know ladies... when you find it and it is yours, hold on to it like it is your breath and don't let go. Love Deeply.. like the ocean breeze that finds it's way to you.. caressing your mind, body and soul.. breath it in, hold it there and only exhale to take it all in again and again for when it is right (and we all know when it's right) it will be there for you, sustain you, hold you, keep you and love you back no matter what! Happy Wednesday to all my sister friends who encourage me on a continuous basis as only sister friends can.
To my current and future Brides... that which I know, I can see, and I will capture it through my lens for you and bring it right back to last you a lifetime.. Thank you for trusting me!
To the Love of my life... I know you, see you, belong with you... and best of all... Love you Deeply!

Eco-Beautiful Weddings Magazine - Spring 2011

2011-03-16T08:39:00.000-07:00

Well they have done it again. Another addition of Eco-Beautiful Weddings magazine is just delicious and ready for Brides to devour. This issue, like all the rest, comes jammed packed with Eco-Friendly ideas for the eco-conscious Bride... and let's not forget the Groom. You can see more of my pictures and read the full article on pages 24 and 25 of the Spring 2011 issue and see Katie's Daily Blog here.

I was there, along with Documentary Associates, to capture the party and runway show blogged about earlier this year for this issue.

Making time to Breathe!

2011-03-08T09:03:00.000-08:00

So once a year I try my best to get us out of town for a weekend. Eric and I... just us! It's usually very stressful getting out of the house but once we are gone we are transported back to 1988 and we are dating again. We walk around wherever we are pretending that we don't have a care in the world. Holding hands, walking close and talking without interruption for hours. Depending on the location we have quiet fancy dinners, dancing, swimming in the moonlight, rum punches to die for and lazy mornings. Getting up at 11:00 and even midnight movies are the norm for us. It's amazing how kids change you, your relationship even how you communicate but we hold on to each other tight and we forget that there is a world wind of activities awaiting us when we return.. and I mean as soon as we step in the door, but that is another post.. stay in the moment.... Breathe!!

This weekend is about us... taking it all in and just being present with each other. Even when the kids were small we would leave. Capable hands would be there with them.. not to worry, they would be alright. The first time we returned when Kai was about 14 months old she cried for two hours when she saw us. I was pregnant with Nash. We laughed at first waiting for her to stop then I held her tight and almost started crying with her. I had to remind myself to breathe. Several years later we returned from another trip and Biko had fallen face first down a set of concrete steps at my moms house. I secretly wanted to die when I saw his scars from forehead to chin but I sucked in up and held him tight.. he was proud that he had survived.. I secretly wanted to die. Breathe!!!

This year we went on a short but awesome trip to NYC to celebrate Eric's birthday. We had more fun than a little bit and soaked it up like a sponge. Those of you who know me realize how much I don't like taking my camera with me on vacation. I did another post earlier about my baby camera and thus this time was no different.. but I took my baby camera because at the end of the day I always see something I want to record, capture or remember.

We now feel like sponges and are rejuvenated and refreshed. We took it all in and had a ball. For this brief moment in time it was nice to just Breathe!!

A room with a view!! I must have taken 100 pictures of this!!

Eric's B-day dinner at Candle 79.. Our new Favorite Restaurant in NYC!!

Eric's non-verbal communication for "Could you put that camera away.. you look like a tourist!"

Where is everyone going? Love it!

Happy as a pea in a pod... Breathing!!

DC maternity session: monnette + duc = baby

2011-02-07T08:05:00.000-08:00

Remember Monette and Duc from just 18 months ago? It just thrills me when brides come back with the news there is a baby on the way. I consider it a greater compliment when they want me to shoot their maternity and thereafter baby sessions. At the end of the day, they know that they can trust me to take care of them and preserve their memories.
They know from me being their wedding photographer, I laugh a lot and I like to have fun, I crack jokes when appropriate and then turn around to straighten out what needs to be fixed. I follow them around and make sure they have water, food, lip gloss, powder, candy... I often even bustle their dress when it's time for them to go on the dance floor.. I am their right hand gal for the day and often in the end, when it's all over we are like old friends departing ways.. waving goodbye as I wish them safe travels on their honeymoon.

Monnette and Duc are now having a baby and I'm thrilled for them. Here are a few of my favorites from the session!

Monnette came with every sonogram picture given her, ever!!.. She is thrilled to be able to see "Luke" everyday! Duc does not see it but nods in agreement.. with a smile! They are so cute!

Cute as a button!

Good luck you two.. I can't wait to meet Mr. Luke..

Published: Eco-Beautiful Weddings Magazine

2011-01-25T06:58:00.000-08:00

So I begin this year being published in several magazines and newspapers. I am utterly proud of every little picture that makes it into any publication.. all photographers are. When I am called to shoot for a magazine and the pictures are thereafter published, I'm simply thrilled.. No wait.. I'm ecstatic.

Earlier this winter Katie called and asked if I'd be interested in shooting again for her Eco-Beautiful Wedding Magazine. "Heck Yes!!" is what she hears me say every time. If you recall, last year I shot the Spring 2010 cover for the magazine. I'm so proud of her and her magazine, I'm always willing to help. This time, I shot the for the "Green Inspiration" article and the "Stress Relieving Yoga" article. It was my idea to perch Miss Yoga as I call her, Takeyah Young of Core Connections on top of a log and take her picture all relaxed looking.. the joke was, she really was quite relaxed and Robin and I laughed so hard at how easy she made it appear.

Check out the entire issue on-line here!
Presenting the Winter 2011 Issue! So proud to be in it!
cover shot by Jennifer Hughes

the magazine now available for print.. got here to find out how!

the pages turn from the bottom right corner.. so cool!

Bouquet designs by Elegance and Simplicity.. cupcakes by Kendall's Cakes

Entire magazine packed with useful information for the Green bride..

Published: Uptown Magazine

2011-01-24T13:00:00.000-08:00

What a great honor to be chosen to capture such a great event. Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated installed the "New" National Harbor Chapter of Jack and Jill, Incorporated in Prince Georges County, Maryland. It was a cold and rainy day but nothing would dampen the mood of these lovely ladies taking part in Jack and Jill history. It s a really big deal to start a new chapter of Jack and Jill and no small feat. With no shortage of time, sweat, dedication and hard work these lovely ladies pulled it off and made it look like a walk in the park.
As one member put it. "This is what happens when you put together a group of mothers who's capacities include entrepreneurs, business professionals, stay-at-home mothers, educators, attorneys, engineers and faith-based leaders with the belief that we can make a difference in the lives of children and families."

Click here to see the slideshow of the event.

Uptown magazine published a few of my photos from the day! You can see them on the "Clique" Washington, D.C. page.

What a wonderful sight!

Sondra Petty, Darlene Brooks and Maranda Jones-Anderson

Joi Grady-Secretary-Treasurer, Eastern Region, Terri Parker-National Treasurer, Tammy King--Director, Eastern Region

Ingrid M. Turner (left), Prince George's County, Maryland Council Member issues Proclamation
to Jack and Jill of America Incorporated, National Harbor Chapter President, Sondra Petty (right)

Eco-Beautiful Magazine's First Year Anniversary Party !

2010-12-21T21:26:00.000-08:00

The room was filled with excitement as Katie Martin, editor and chief of Eco-Beautiful Wedding Magazine, came out to share her thoughts about Eco-Beautiful Wedding Magazine's first year. The First Year's Anniversary Issue had been revealed just that morning
AND her wedding anniversary was the same day. She also updated the audience as to her pick of the oh-so-talented, Robin Fisher, of Polished Image and Style, to be her Managing Editor.

Just the day in the life of a hard working entrepreneur, mother, wife and friend to many in the industry. Chris Kole of Cotton Bride was there with their beautiful cotton wedding dresses that are well on their way to be must-haves for ANY bride-to be. The run-way show was spectacular.. the energy and electricity in the air was palatable. There were a host of vendors and sponsors who collaborated beautifully to make for a spectacular evening. Click here for a full list of those involved

Here are some of my favorites from the evening!

Senior Lifestyle Shoot - Megan

2010-12-02T17:33:00.000-08:00

There comes a time in a young girls life that everything is just lovely. The world is her oyster. There is nothing that she can not do. There is not a place on earth she can't visit, explore or live. There is no job she can't acquire. She is strong, vibrant, silly, serious, stubborn, fresh, confident, joyful, beautiful and full of purpose. The time.. that time comes somewhere between High School and Collage and stays around for a while.. longer if you are lucky and then things change for a young woman... For all of the adult women reading this you know about this time/transition, but that is another post or perhaps a book I'll write someday. I will stay in this moment because this post is about this beautiful girl who is living in her moment right now. To see it behind the lens is refreshing and noticeable.. palatable, distinguishable. I am so happy that she is living in that moment, this moment.. because her time is now and my prayer is that she can stay as close to this moment forever!
Megan.. you are beautiful.. as you go off to new places and new things, may you always remember this moment in time. These really are the best of times.

Click here to see more of Megan's Senior Lifestyle Shoot. Senior year 2011

Seriously?

The word of the day was "perfect"

Every time I said it, I'd apologize and she'd laugh

What a beautiful smile..

Don't forget to watch her slideshow !

Olde Breton Inn Wedding - Nick and Adrianne

2010-11-23T20:33:00.000-08:00

Meeting Adrianne face to face on her wedding day was different but showed the trust she had in her friend who referred me. She knew through word of mouth that I would be there and that she and Nick would be taken care of from the beginning to the end of their day. Relaxed in the hotel room as friends and family came by to take a peek at her smiling eyes, Adrianne was calm and just plain ready. Most left in tears and her dad stood in the hall not wanting to see her until she was at the church all dressed and ready to walk down the aisle.
She as ready to become Mrs. Troilo and was assured knowing that with Nick by her side for the rest of her life she would be taken care of. He made these promises and many more in his vows that made many cry out during the ceremony.. out loud. He later made his bride blush/exclaim during his toast and eloquent thank you to friends and family at the reception. In the end when they looked into each others eyes there was a calm that came over the two of them.. relaxed, assured and in love..
Nick and Adrianne thank you for allowing me to capture your moments that will carry you from the here and now into the "And They Lived Happily Ever After". I enjoyed ever bit of your day and was honored to have been there for the two of you.

To see more of Adrianne and Nick's wedding day feel free to click here to see their slideshow!

Melissa rocked Adrianne's makeup. Individual eyelashes in 10 minutes flat!!

tears on joy for one of her best friends...

Georgous!

Daddy's girl!

mom, aunt and godmother sharing a good laugh!

Adrianne's sorors singing the traditional AKA song.. really sweet!

laughter for some.. shock for others..

Adrianne and her Alpha Kappa Alpha sorors

Adrianne, grandmother and mother.

Everything about the "Olde Breton Inn" was special.. especially the view!

Fairfax Old Town Hall Wedding : Richard + Mona

2010-11-02T04:11:00.000-07:00

     Mona first met Richard at her favorite restaurant in Bloomington, Indiana where she was a regular patron and he worked. In her overly friendly fashion Mona stopped Richard on his first day at work to introduce herself and then immediately asked him if anyone had ever told him he shared a surprising likeness to Danny Bonaduce. Needless to say Richard did not appreciate the comment. He made a rather sarcastic comment and walked away. While that first awkward encounter made them both decide not to ask each other out, over the coming months a surprising flirtation developed over cups of coffee, crossword puzzles and games of volleyball – a flirtation that neither could deny. Their love morphed over months and a long distance love affair that helped grow their fondness and love for each other.
On a beautiful May afternoon many months later while standing on a sandy path between the beach and the dunes by the North Sea... Richard officially proposed asking Mona to marry him.

Mona and Richard... it was such a pleasure meeting the two of you and documenting your very special day. It was clear from the beginning that your wedding and your details would be awesome to photograph and their importance, as defined by their meaning to you and your backgrounds, would be a sight to behold . From the stacks of vintage books from the groom's father with vintage ink wells sitting atop each which served as your centerpieces, handmade/painted candles from the groom's Aunt, handmade traditional Pakistani favor bags made by the bride's mother and handmade letterpress type block name plates and vintage typewriter table numbers both made by the bride... this intimate affair was reaping of culture, history and love from both unique sides.
Finding out that my favorite detail was also your favorite part of the decor was really no surprise at all, once I thought about it.....The display of old black and white family pictures which represented the coming together not only of two people but of two entire families and their histories was just spectacular and your family and friends gathered around it from time to time all night long..
It is clear that the traditions of both cultures are rich and abundant and important to both of you... the pictures, books with family love, a mother's reflection of years past and present, friends providing toasts to the couple, songs sung to the bride and groom (with everyone laughing at the thought of ...singing? what? is this a tradition? ok... we will go for it), the most beautiful and passionate sitar music being played throughout, tears and laughter, dancing and bear hugs.. the evening seemed a perfect mix of ........ LOVE!!!!
Thanks for trusting me with all of the above as I know that these pictures will be amongst the others that are so near and dear to your hearts. I was honored to document your wedding and more importantly your love for each other. When you look into each other's eyes, what you see on the other side is so pure and true. May you always be able to make each other smile without saying a word and may you always love each other as sincerely and passionately as you do at this moment.

Mona and Richard chose to see each other before the ceremony also called a "First Look"

Click here to see more Richard and Mona's wedding day.







Venue:    Old Town Hall   Fairfax, Virginia
Catering by:         Main Event Caterers
Flowers by:         Karin’s Florist
Music performed by:    Josh Feinberg
Hair and Makeup:    Gina Hamrah

MB - Senior Shoot

2010-10-24T17:17:00.000-07:00

     The call went out that I was looking for a Senior to shoot and THIS young lady answered the call within minutes. Kai put it out there on Twitter and by the time she got back downstairs to let me know that she had MB had already e-mailed me and asked me how she could help.
     She was game for trying anything and as we walked through the streets she and I were thinking the same thing when it came to the juxtaposition of doors, windows, ivy climbing on walls, the old and the new. Some people work hard at getting "the look".... she just looked.   We laughed our way through the streets dodged cars and mumbled pleasantries to people who wanted to know why we were standing in the middle of the street at 9AM and all the awkwardness that my children swore would be there was mysteriously absent.
     MB thanks for answering the call and for being there. Way to "Bring It!"... you light up the camera and if you were not sure before if you could dabble in modeling...look at these pictures and be Sure! Your song choice for your slideshow is just perfect!

... to see more of MB's session Click Here!

to see more of MB's session Click Here!

Family Session

2010-10-24T06:12:00.000-07:00

I love it when my brides come back to me for portraits. Donna has been trying to get our schedules to mesh for a while and with a young working family this is sometimes difficult. I am always honored to get the call and have the trust people give me and I in turn try to help them bring out their inner fabulous-o-so during their session. No word to describe giving us (women especially) permission to feel beautiful for the day, the hour, the moment... Why not!
Donna, Reese thanks for trusting me to grab your fabulous for an hour. You are truly blessed and I'm so happy that almost three years of marriage have passed you by. May you continue to find comfort in each others arms and foster that comfort within your children, who emulate your love. They.... put the C in CUTE!

Did not mean to mess up the bad boy image Reese.. but the smile really works!!

Click here to see more of their session!!

The Little Book that Could - "The Go-Giver"

2010-10-04T10:41:00.000-07:00

It's been two years since I joined my Book Club and while I am a self admitted non-book reader I give a good effort each and every time. I've only missed one, of our monthly meetings, and have started each and every book. There has not been a book that I did not get at least halfway through and at least five or so that I have completed. My new Book Club friends often start the meeting by asking me if I have finished the current read and often get a big laugh out of my answer. Why they don't kick me out is a thought my brain has pondered but I have gotten better and I do try, always... I, like the other special ladies in the group, bring something different to it each and every meeting whether I finish the book or not... or at least that is what I tell myself.... "It is what it is..." (I'll let you know if I ever get my walking papers)...

Who could have so many books and not read them all? (smile) I once belonged to the "Oprah-tells-you-to-buy-it-so-it-must-be-good-book-buyers-club" I gave up a couple of years ago... but in the meantime, I have quite the collection.. (smile)

Lately, I have evaluated my business intently and have pondered, recognized and tackled my weaknesses as it relates to it. Acknowledging openly that one is not perfect is very hard for most but to acknowledge, embrace and thereafter strive to make things different/better is the key, in my humble opinion, to true growth. I seek to be the best I can be and have read a little bit lately ... OK maybe a lot about how others have done this for themselves. I started with the book called the "The E-Myth Revisited" and lost myself in the text as it penetrated my brain and sought to transform my thoughts.. I urged my husband to read it as well and read to him at night sometimes when the words on the page actually made it hard for me not to share. Reluctantly, he allowed me to softly read to him and we both amazed at what was coming off of the pages. In the meantime, I was also reading "SHIFT", "REWORK" and the book club book "The Immortal Life of Heneretta Lacks". Through our discussions, Eric noticed my new awareness and sought to bring me home yet another book for my new venture. He pulled them out of the bag not knowing, at the time, that these two little books would really change the way we thought about a lot of things. He wanted me to start with the second one and he would start with the first one. I tried to sneak the first one away form him several times because I have a hard time reading a sequel out of order but he was stanch about finishing the first one first
"Go finish all of those other books you have, I'll be done in a couple of days". A week later I asked if he had finished it.
"Yes" he said "but a funny thing happened...I gave it away"
"You did what...?" I asked... honestly, it was more of a squeal.
"I gave it away, isn't that what the book is about? It is called the "The Go-Giver" right?" and he went on to explain how this little book made him see things differently and how he was compelled to give it to someone who asked about it.
I smiled as he told the story and could not help thinking how lucky I was to have found someone who genuinely and consistently thinks of others. I went to the bookstore the next day and purchased another copy. He saw it in my hands that night and smiled. I have since finished it and have admittedly been transformed by it and what it says both about business and life. Is this an endorsement? " I think so. While I will apply what I have learned to my business I'm confident that it's principles could be life changing in many areas of your life. The Little Book That Could.... do a lot for all of us... (Happy Monday everyone)

Children at the Wedding? Cuteness Abound

2010-10-01T14:01:00.000-07:00

Over the years there has been endless debate about "Children at the Wedding". Some believe that they should come and just as many believe they should not be there. Over the years, I have seen it both ways and in between including on site babysitting services complete with games and pizza. Consideration for the above is certainly the choice of the bride and groom and may include the following when preparing the final decision. Cost, behavior, maturity, if you invite one you have to invite them all, venue, attention span, noise, family and friends feelings all of these go into the discussion... and the list goes on and on. From a photographers perspective the joy of them being there is in the pictures of course!!!! Cuteness abound!

They always look so handsome all dressed up!

They tend to take the job at hand seriously!

Later they start to relax!

Dance...like no one is looking!!

Have others join the fun..

Sometimes they don't get it.. but who cares?

And every now and then the dance floor is all theirs....

either way... they are always just so darn CUTE!!!

unexpected photo shoot and my baby camera

2010-09-24T11:31:00.000-07:00

On vacation....laying in the sun, no kids, no work, no tv, no phone.... nothing..... just Eric and I enjoying the solitude of the moment and the joy of being together without the hustle and bustle that normally surrounds us on a daily basis. No worries....
We relish the quiet, the solitude, the moment. One day we decide to eat a quick bite and I decide that we need to take a photo of us in this beautiful place.. you know to remember it all, to prove to each other later that we really were there having a ball. I whip out my tiny, go to, vacation camera, as I don't take my working camera on vacation... don't want to shoot, don't need to shoot, the baby camera is there just to document the moment for the two of us. A small framed woman at the neighboring table jumps up and cheerfully offers to snap the memory. We begin to talk.. we talk for what seems like hours. Her husband joined us and we talk some more. They join us for dinner that night and the next night too. At some point, they introduce us to their daughter...a tiny tot who is just a cheerful as her mom and as cute as a button too.
Mom explains during one of our conversations that she is just sick that she forgot her camera at home in Connecticut. She wants to go to Walmart in the neighboring town and get a click camera just to take pictures of her daughter. Eric looks at me and smiles. I look the other way and smile. After about 10 seconds.. it's the photographer in me... I tell her that I'd love to shoot her daughter for her, if she wants me too and directs her to look at my website that night. The next morning early, she called to arrange "the shoot" and I explained that I only had my baby camera so it would not be the best of shoots but I'd just take some pictures of her. She was thrilled!

To my surprise.. mom dressed her up in all white and I began the shoot. We had fun.. laughing, playing and mom and dad even joined in for a few. She thanked me over and over again and upon our checkout she had a handmade photo album presented to us by the clerk with a hand written note, once again expressing her gratitude.

The unexpected photo shoot resulted in some really nice pictures.. even from my baby camera!
Proving to me that it's not the equipment you use, it's the passion that drives the memory! I was taken aback by the results.

Happy Friday Everyone!

More than Air - Kia & Mike's Whitehall Manor Wedding Remembered!

2010-09-23T16:53:00.000-07:00

It's been a while now but it is a wedding that I will never forget. In my mind the possibility of shooting it was, lets say, surreal. I knew that it was going to be a big one..huge.. and I also knew, deep inside of my spirit that I could do it but getting it was another story.
Kia and her mom came to me one afternoon. I sat with paper and pen ready to write down the details of her day but somewhere along the course of the conversation I set the paper and pen down and just answered the questions they tossed my way. They had all of them on a checklist.. you know, from the bridal "make sure you don't forget anything" list in the perfectly bound notebook.. mother and daughter both had one and I just sat and tried to answer. Suddenly it got really hot in the room and I knew that this was not going to happen for "a little bit of whimsy". My kids, huddled on the floor on the catwalk above the greatroom where we met, began to quietly laugh at my attempts to answer. I did my best and answered truthfully. One question I just told mom.. "I'll have to get back to you on that one. That is something I've never even thought about". I could not lie.. but inside I had given up. Trust me, I was resolved with that. At that moment, I knew that this wedding was just not for me, even though I wanted it more than air.
When they left, my kids recounted to me how ridiculous I sounded and shouted... " oh well.. you won't be shooting that one.." We all laughed. Secretly, I wanted to cry.
About a week went by and I got a call from Kia saying... "we have chosen you and we want you to shoot my wedding". I wish you could have seen my face and the shouts to God thanking him for making my wish come true when I hung up.
The wedding was just spectacular... the venue, the flowers, the cakes, the center pieces, the food, the luge, the photo booth, the Calypso band, the DJ, the desert cart with chocolate after dinner drink cups... EVERYTHING.. a photographer's dream.. and it was mine. I lost three pounds that day, I was so excited.
It has been years since Kia and Mike got married so I was very surprised and delighted when I received an e-mail from Kia a while back which said in part...

"Hi Delores,
Every now and then, I feel nostalgic and check your website to look at our engagement and wedding pictures. Mike and I regularly look through our wedding album (he recently confessed that he looks at it even more than I was aware of!)" ...............".......... this morning, I suddenly felt compelled to look at our wedding photos on your website. Tears! Tears! Tears! Happy tears and laughter, of course! Well, it is 1 year and 8 months later and we are more in love than our wedding day and I just want to thank you and your husband again for beautifully capturing the start of our married journey and one of the happiest days of our life together!"
All the best,
Kia Mills

Thanks Kia & Mike and Mr & Mrs Tucker.. for trusting me when I was lifting off from my nest.. branching out and taking flight. Your wedding taught me a lot about relationships, love and trust.
Trusting myself and trusting my passion for what I love to do... Documenting your day was a culmination of all of the above and I Loved Every Minute Of It!!

Click HERE to see Kia and Mike's slideshow!

Robert + Eartha = Married Oxon Hill Manor Wedding

2010-09-15T13:33:00.000-07:00

I saw rain drops early that morning and prayed for it to pass before Eartha woke up. I knew the wedding she had been planning for some time was unfolding and I wanted this day to be as perfect as she had planned in her minds eye. The hurricane was just glancing the coast and threatened rain but as the day progressed the remnants that told the story were just the overcast sky.When I arrived at Oxon Hill Manor and saw the white chairs lined perfectly in rows, I knew that the wedding would go forward as planned and Robert and Eartha would have their outdoor wedding.
Witnessing these two very special people get married was a joy for me. Every time I captured them in my lens Eartha seemed to glow with excitement, devotion, passion and love while at the same time Robert seemed to respond to her warm smile, relaxed, proud, passionate and in love. When they look into each others eyes and pause... there is that moment you are witnessing something powerful, electric and real...
Their prospective children walked with them to be at their side for this special day. How great was that... two families joining or at least unwavering consent from those whom opinions mean the most to Robert and Eartha. Robert with his beautiful daughter and Eartha with her handsome son.

Robert and Eartha thank you for allowing me to capture this awesome day and to get to know you over the past few months. I wish you both all the happiness in the world that your hearts can hold and minds can imagine.

To see more pictures of their day click here!

You two look incredible!

Please click HERE to see more of their wedding day.

August = A Family Reunion

2010-09-01T12:13:00.000-07:00

The days of summer are nearly gone.. the kids are back in school and I am here reflecting on the days gone by. In preparation for a wedding on Friday (come back soon to see) I came across these photos of our family. I am able to get in front of the camera when my brother, Mike, also a photographer, comes around and I am happy to have yet another photograph of my favorite people. I don't often blog about my family because I like to keep this on-line journal about my work.. my photography. But in order to get to know me as your wedding photographer, I think it's helpful for you to peek inside of my world.. my head.. my thoughts, if you will, if you are going to trust me in yours for the day.

I am what I am because of God but I exist in a happy place because of my family. They bring me joy and peace everyday! I just love them.

I say all the time, I love spontaneous photos.. not posed.. random.. with mouths open and genuine precious smiles. Ask any one of them (except dad.. my dad) and they will say they hate themselves in this picture. I think the picture is simply beautiful because of the warmth of the moment.

Is it me or am i getting shorter than everybody?

My dad.. Eric and the girls!

I've always wanted- growing a garden

2010-07-19T08:14:00.000-07:00

     So he said "no"... you have to take care, weed, feed, water a garden honey? remember that tomato plant you tried to grow before, it died after week two!"
"no babe.. I can do this, I promise it won't look like a hot-mess. I'll take care of it"..
     With determination in my heart I set out to grow just a tomato or two. To prove that I could, to put an end to my nay-sayers. To put a smile on my better-half's face. (he is secretly proud.. I can tell).
     I reflect and can clearly remember my grandmother's garden in the space about as big as a car in the back of her red brick row house in inner-city Baltimore. She was so proud of the vegetables that would come out from that tiny plot of land. When I viewed it from the top step of the back porch I would just smile and say.. "oh that's so nice grandma".. honestly, it did not look like much to me, a child.. broken hard soil, green bushy somethings, stakes made out of anything she could find, strings everywhere. To the right a broken down car and to the left a sidewalk leading to a tiny shed and beyond that, concrete city, complete with chain-linked fences, rows of trash cans and clothes-lines with peoples underwear hanging from them (amongst other clothing items) although all I saw, you know.. the child, was the underwear. Who would hang their underwear on a line for everyone else on the block to see? I had to chuckle and turn my attention back to grandma who had not noticed the diversion of thought. I could not wait to get back inside where I would later taste the sweetest tomatoes my mouth had ever touched. Okra that was special, collards to die for and cucumbers that tasted like heaven. All from her garden in the concrete jungle. In later years she moved in with my parents in NC and I saw the works of her green thumb, this time with plants and flowers.. were they supposed to be all bushy and so lush " ALL OF THE TIME?" not a brown leaf in sight and then you would see her talk to them.. what in the world?
     About 10 years later she passed but remained the keeper of the plants until she could no longer take care of them..
     What is this story about? oh, just remembering grandma's concrete garden and praying that her green thumb was passed along to me in order that I am able to bear the same type vegetables that she was able to grow. Time, patience, excitement at every bud that sprouts. And I too drag everyone I can out to see my little garden in the woods and squeal with delight every time I see a new vegetable unfolding before my eyes. If she could do it in the concrete jungle, certainly I can do it in the woods. Only time will tell. Only God can truly make this happen!

I sit in the chair and watch the miracle

Kai helped with the rock dividers

The morning sun catching the first tomato!

squash..?

peppers- mild!

another tomato!

The Austin's and Rouson's - Family Session

2010-07-02T08:06:00.000-07:00

I've captured my share of families and am always amazed at how difficult it is to get my own family together for such an occasion as a picture. However important we deem it to be, somehow life seems to go by fast and we do not take the time to capture the memories that will last a lifetime. But we all want it later.. when the dust settles, when the kids are gone, when the children have children and when memories in our mind start to fade. We look to our parents and sometimes their parents for that lone photograph to see what is was like, who was who and how the relationships intertwined. Our kin, our heritage, lineage, past and future.. all rolled up into one photograph.

Thanks to Angela and Herb for allowing me to capture their family first, to Avis for taking notes and allowing me to capture Sarah for her senior pictures and for the two families combined for trusting me to document this moment in time for both families.. You all look fabulous and your energy and smiles are contagious. You all were a blessing to me and I hope these photographs will be a blessing to you.

Click HERE for their Slideshow!

brandi and chantele- married

2010-06-07T18:37:00.000-07:00

Everyone in the place was relaxed and calm.. hushed voices spoke of details, particulars and how the day was shaping up. As I looked around, I noticed there was but a door separating Brandi and Chantele from seeing each other... from being together. I think it was the most enormous suite I've ever seen and just perfect for the anticipation between the two to build. Family and friends moved between the rooms and made comment on how beautiful the other looked. From my standpoint I'd say they both were glowing... sure, calm, purposeful, deliberate.... in love. It was like standing in a slightly dew quenched grassy field looking at the sun slowly rise on a beautiful spring morning... sure, calm, purposeful, deliberate... love.
Chantele and Brandi.. thanks for it all.. your wedding was spectacular in many ways and the party was just too much. All of your planning and hard work payed off in all the gorgeous details.

Wedding Coordinator: Shawna Parks & Katharine Ronald of Romance is Bliss
Photography: me (smile)
Videography: Blue Sky Films Silver Spring, Maryland
Dress: Pricilla of Boston Salon, Tysons Corner, Virginia
Make-up: Beauty Behind the Scenes, Candace Hill
Florals: Village Flower Mart
Reception/catering: Waterfront Marriott, Baltimore, Maryland
DJ: DJ G-Nice

To see more of Brandi and Chantele, CLICK HERE for a slideshow!
and HERE for part two..

aisha- senior lifestyle session

2010-05-02T11:50:00.000-07:00

another beautiful teenager making her way towards me for her portrait session. i was thrilled!! this is such a speccial time in the life of a teen and i'm always happy when they allow themselves to be transformed through my lens if but for a day..

i met her mom at the beginning of the school year at starbucks and we quickly became morning coffee buddies. discussing the perils of teenagers, the school, grades, finals, christmas break, spring break, school, school, school.. oh.. and.... have a great day. i told her i was a photographer when we first met but she came to me much later to see if i would take pictures of her daughter.. "sure" i said.. secretly thinking "i thought you'd never ask.."
We decided on a time late in the day.. before sunset, at the park.
i must say, i shoot at this park often but i'm always amazed at the spectacular portraits that spring from my camera, as the river in the background always makes for a stunning backdrop.. add to that a stunning young lady in a..... oh you just have to wait and see!!

Aisha.. thanks for accommodating all of my crazy requests...You are a stunning young lady and i wish you all the best as you go off to college. Mom.. thanks for allowing me to capture her before she goes off and grows up on you.. she's got a good head on her shoulders and will be just fine.. You have taught her well..

Click here for her slideshow..

the sunset made for beautifully warm toned pictures!!

just spectacular!!

From the Bottom of my Heart.. Thank You!

2010-04-20T10:48:00.000-07:00

So the Project Prom Dress went off without a hitch and I must say that the project sponcers were so pleased that every girl left that day with a dress. For all of you that follow me here, heard the call and responded, I say thank you from the bottom of my heart. I was surprised at the response in such a short period of time. It warmed my heart that you came through with such conviction to do what you could. I think it is a woman- girl thing.. looking back, remembering how if was for us as a teen. You really came through.

Project Kissing Frogs was able to provide over 30 dresses to DC Public Schools for the day and helped make a lot of dreams come true. I was happy that my daughter, Kai, was able to be a part of such a special project for the girl's in DC as well. She was thrilled that her efforts made a difference to girls that she could relate to. Fashion, jewelry, dresses, prom, pocket books, shoes = happy teen girls.. she, along with the girls receiving the dresses, could not stop smiling.

click HERE for a preview of the days events!!

Kissing Frogs - The Prom Dress Project

2010-04-13T12:33:00.000-07:00

Do you remember the night you went to the prom.. the buttterflies, the hair, the corsage, the dress..?
Just in time for prom season.. please consider sponsoring a teen girl from the metro DC area with a prom dress. Sponsor donations begin at a mere 25.00 (give more if you like)!! Now is your chance to make a young girl's dream of a beautiful prom dress come true.. Act now.. time is running out.. (midnight tonight)!!

For this year’s prom season, my friends at Polished Image and The Capital Fashionista have teamed with Project Stitch and DC Fashion Foundation to sponsor Kissing Frogs - The Prom Dress Project!

                                             Click here to donate ..
           (follow links to donate.. i takes just a few minutes but will warm your heart when you are done)

                              Deadline midnight tonight April 13, 2010

This year they are looking for sponsors for approximately 65 dresses by designer Alfred Angelo that will be made available to DC high school girls at DC Public Schools Boutique Day on Thursday, April 15th. Dress donations will benefit the GWFCC DC Fashion Foundation’s Project Stitch Studio at West Potomac Academy Fashion Design in Alexandria, VA.

sarah - senior session

2010-04-12T09:44:00.000-07:00

she seemed a bit shy at first but when we got a moment to talk she voiced her opinion freely about what was to come for her in the days, months and years to come. she was positive, sensitive and yet strong with definite opinions concerning life, friendships and love. she has a smile that lights up a room and an electric personality to equal that of any superstar.
we had so much fun shooting this session and i can't wait to here all about her ultimate college choice and her rocking prom date.. because there are a plethora of choices to make, in all things related to life, at her age and i am so refreshed to hear that she is examining hers....

here are a few of my favorites.. click here to see her slideshow

I shot the cover for Eco-Beautiful Weddings Magazine!

2010-03-22T10:01:00.000-07:00

i'm really speechless but it is true, i had the honor of shooting the cover for the eco-beautiful magazine and the featured editorial on elizabeth st. james wedding dresses pages 86-94. i'm thrilled to have been chosen and delighted at the result. those who know me understand that i am screaming right now and those who don't... well... i'm screaming with joy!!
Click on the cover below to see the entire "virtual" issue!!

Words..? Where Are They..

2010-03-19T09:37:00.001-07:00

People who know me are shaking their heads at my excitement for this latest venture that I am associated with. I am really speechless because of the opportunity and can not quite find the appropriate words to express just how thrilled I am to be a part of the second edition of the Eco-Beautiful Weddings e-magazine. I'm so thrilled in fact, I allowed myself the liberty to include uppercase letters on my blog for the first time in a long time..

This e-magazine is produced by Katie Martin creator of Elegance & Simplicity, Inc. & Eco-Beautiful Weddings. What does "e-magazine" mean? Well to me (and don't get it twisted..I'm really no expert on the subject nor do I claim to be) it means that it is a virtual, on-line and (in this case) a bridal magazine thus making it "Eco-friendly" because it is not printed. It does not come to your home and take up space on your pile of magazines to "throw away" or take to the recycle-bin (although technically that would be "eco-friendly", the recycle part) BUT not everyone recycles...ah-ha!! This is super special in these days when most people spend (I know there is a statistic on this.. but I'll pull something remote out of my head and say...) 48% of their day on computers. It makes so much sense, really. Brides are shopping, looking, researching and booking on-line at an ever increasing rate, so this Eco-beautiful Wedding e-magazine is simply perfect. Paring the e-magazine concept with the Eco-Beautiful Wedding website is a marriage (no pun intended) made in heaven for the eco-conscious, savvy, sophisticated bride.

The whole team of individuals that made the shoot possible were a joy to work with and super fun. Robin Fisher of Polished Image and Style pulled together the most beautiful looks for the shoot with the gorgeous wedding dresses from Elizabeth St. John , David Morley of Zinnia Films shot the video and put together this awesome clip that I can't stop watching. The talented Carla created glamorizing hairstyles on the ever beautiful Persephone, the model of the day, and Jeff Enriquez from InnerBeauty, Inc. rounded out the team with flawless makeup.

The magazine comes out on Monday so stay tuned.. I'll have a link here and if you listen very carefully Monday morning I think you may be able to hear me scream.. In the meantime watch the clip below..

There is one surprise I have not mentioned here.. Come back on Monday and I will fill you in!!

all in the family

2010-02-17T08:23:00.000-08:00

"You are kidding me you are having another boy!" i exclaimed.. like it was any of my business at all.
"yes, yes.. i knoooowwww" she concedes in her raspy slow moving voice.. it's like molasses (her voice), so smooth and thick, the southern accent, you can almost reach out and touch the words as they come out of her mouth.
"we don't care.. as long as we have a healthy baby.. it will just be us and all those boys. i really don't know anything different".

but all i could think about was how precious they were. all of them. long ponytails, big eyes, nice smiles and polite ta' boot. each one of them has their own personality.. but don't they all, kids i mean. there was something about these boys that shouted "photo shoot" so when she called i was thrilled.

here are a few of my favorites from the day!

Look a little bit trying to hang with the big brothers!!

Throwing leaves= irresistible!

Inseparable- family session

2010-02-01T15:02:00.000-08:00

sonya contacted me after a co-worker (Sandy) showed her a slideshow. i could not get her in before the holidays but she was clear she wanted it sooner vs. later. spring was too far.. she wanted to show/assure her family and friends back home that her son (the oldest) was doing well and that he had recuperated nicely from heart surgery earlier this year (2009). the urgency was noted and i was so honored to be able to make it happen for her as mom, for them as a family and for him as a pretty awesome person.

being 20 years old means that there are no smiles.. none...nada... even the youngest son tried not to smile during the entire shoot but i joked like a silly person until both of them shot me a fast one. i had to catch it quick or it would have been gone forever but catching those looks unexpectedly is what i do.. seeing or revealing the true personality of a person comes when they feel comfortable.. it takes a while but i try to always get what i want..

the family as a whole is awesome.. that is always nice to see and feel.. but as per my usual getting mom and dad to give me a little umph is always nice..

thanks for letting me into your world for a little while and to tell your story through my lens if not but for a brief moment in time..

take a look at their slideshow and you will see it all..

Sean- Senior 2010

2010-02-01T14:05:00.000-08:00

sean was apprehensive at first.. his mother had set this up. all he knew was that he was supposed to take his senior pictures.. he had not seen my website, my pictures and did not know me from adam.. but after the family shoot it was his turn..

he asked if he could change clothes and I told him of course. his mother protested and wanted to know what he was going to wear and he reluctantly told her but all i could hear was..
"no Sean.. not the t-shirt and the flannel.." i asked if he was going to wear the sweater first and he said yes so i was good.. a little something for mom and a little something for him. i could tell he was happy!!
he ran upstairs and came back with two outfits and we left.. what i did not understand was just how the bow and arrow thing-ee was going to translate but when he slipped the bow behind his neck and started walking towards the woods with the t-shirt and the flannel, i understood and was happy for him.. i was determined to help him express himself through my lens.. he wanted something something different.

needless to say Sean did an awesome job and quickly got the hang of looking the part.. you know.. grown but not grown, handsome but not sweet, and he wanted to translate what was important to him.. his truck, his dog, his hunting and the farm (memories of growing up there).. he chose this song and i could not have been more pleased as to how it all translated in his slideshow

ready to go hunting!!

they're so much better when we're together - St Mary's County

2010-01-28T08:05:00.000-08:00

"you really ARE a photographer."
meta exclaimed, after she viewed my website for the first time..,
"i mean, you have to take sean's senior pictures next year and we really need a family portrait and i have to have christmas cards... we have not done any in years...."
we spoke about how we wanted to set it all up in between exuberant calls from the sidelines to our girls playing on their high school soccer team. one day i picked my daughter up from the farm and as i meandered slowly down the long, curvy, tree-laced driveway and laid eyes on the pond and her beautiful red-roof home, i knew that i had to shoot them right there.. it was just perfect...a photographers delight.

time passed and we scheduled and canceled several times as the kids, work, family, travel, hair scalping (her son shaved all of his hair off for a bet) and life just seemed to make it impossible for the two of us.. but persistence prevailed and finally i was able to travel down to their farm to capture them together.. all together, before the oldest goes off to college..

we had a lot of fun that day on the farm and i think these pictures reflect the love they hold dear for one another and the fun, joy and laughter they share in each other's presence.

thanks meta and jim for trusting me to make this happen for you. i can't wait to see the canvas.

here are a few of my favorites and their slideshow. come back later to view Sean's senior session.

the guys and their truck!

Sonoma- just a few more

2010-01-19T07:37:00.000-08:00

As I promised.. Here are a few more from our weekend trip to Sonoma and Napa Valley California with our friends William and Phyl. Did I mention that it poured buckets of rain for the entire weekend.. we didn't care because that's what umbrellas are for.. right?

So we spent the weekend taking pictures of each other. We both have multiple kids and are never in front of the camera anymore, especially as a couple.. it was so much fun trying to create for ourselves what we create for others all the time. I left my big camera at home because I knew I would turn the trip into one big photo shoot. I was trying to relax. As it turned out, I grabbed Williams camera more times than necessary just because I saw something beautiful..

I love that Tuscan style!! and Italy too..

I have no idea why but windows and doors make me happy too. I'm sure it means something..

One more of Phyl and William..

So put Napa Valley on your list of things to do... it really was a lot of fun.. not to mention the wine!!!! (smile)

YOU inspire ME!

2010-01-12T09:16:00.000-08:00

With all of the things I had to do this Holiday Season.. posting just got past me. So, for this year I've decided to make it part of my business to post more of what I do on a weekly basis. Deep in the crevices of my computer lay many pictures that have never been seen but by the client themselves. Many of you who ask, "is there anything new at Whimsy this week?, I need to go to the site"! thankfully, I get it.. I obviously need to post more if you are asking for it. Right? There are many of you who stalk (in the most friendly way) my blog just for the pure enjoyment of the pictures. Some have confessed that they like the stories that are told about the people whom I capture. Some come here to show a friend or family member my site. I'm not a boastful person and never seek to toot my own horn thus I have (quite honestly) been amazed at those who find my writing special at all, as I have a habit of putting double periods at the end of sentences and running them into east creation. I only try to go back and correct the double periods and run-ons for the sake of my kids and perhaps a teacher that may look and think that they have an idiot for a mother..

Truth be told.. YOU inspire ME! to be my best.. to bring it on every shoot.. to find the something different in your smile or laugh.. to find the spark in your story.. to erase the "I don't look good in pictures", from your vocabulary.. to put a little bit of happy in your day when you see my images (if that is at all possible).. YOU inspire ME!! and for that I am grateful, peaceful and happy.. So, go ahead and come back often this year as I will be here more often just to but it down as I see it and perhaps in the process put a little smile in your heart.

And since a photographer's post is just not a post without a picture I thought I'd kick off the new year with this: as I am like most women and 99% of the time do not like to see myself in pictures (just keeping it real).. I thought I'd start this year off with Eric and I so that you can get to know me as I get to know you..

Eric and I went with some friends before Christmas and drove through Napa Valley, California.. here is one that our friend William, who, as you can see, works things out with a camera in his hand, took of us.. (I know it is a run-on..)

Although Eric would rather have teeth removed than be on my blog I have to let you know that HE is the LOVE of my life.. the ANCHOR of my ship.. the KEEPER of my heart.. and truly one of the most awe inspiring people I have ever met.. I'm so glad to have him in my life and I thank God for him each and every day..

This one makes me smile..

more from Napa later..I'll be back soon..

latoya and edward - a wedding

2009-12-20T13:13:00.000-08:00

Snow fell lightly the night before but the forecast was clear and so was the way for LaToya and Edward to begin their lives as one. Simply put, LaToya was hammering out the details from the start and left nothing to chance as preparations moved toward their wedding day. Edward was overseas at the time but it was clear that not only was she ready to have him back stateside but ready to walk down the aisle and become Mrs. Jones as well.

As the day unfolded her relaxed calm was quite soothing for all of those around. LaToya moved so deliberately and with such grace that I'd have to say I was a little tickled. Could this be? I had never.. ever... seen a bride so calm, cool and collected. Later, as she was ready to get dressed, she received a special gift from her maid of honor and her big brown eyes filled with tears, if just for a moment. You could tell that her best friend had no intention of making her cry and they proceeded to turn away from each other in order to restore their emotional calm.

Latoya told me quietly of how her and Edward met and I was not surprised after hearing the story that the two of them, shortly thereafter, fell in love and chose to commit to each other for the rest of their lives.

LaToya and Edward, thanks for choosing a little bit of whimsy to document your beautiful wedding. I was honored to be there and I'm honored still to be able to present you with the pictures that will last you a lifetime. May your love for each other grow stronger and deeper with each breath you take...

To view more of their wedding, CLICK HERE for their slideshow.

Here are a few of my favorites from the day..

stunning.. just stunning!!

relaxed and calm

Who can't play pool?

The guys relaxing.. watching the beginning of the game...

I love the feel of this one...

Never mind me.. just go for it

sun rays pouring through the window.. how beautiful

Dad, in the background, taking a picture of his daughter's first dance

moments where there seemed to be no one else in the room

Bride and fathers dance

everyone to the dance floor

when there was no one else around..

Bitter Sweet

2009-11-16T12:29:00.000-08:00

When a new client calls I try to get a feel of what they want based on what they have seen or heard about my work? What is the end result? What are you looking to take away with you from your session? In this case Sandy was really clear.." I saw your slideshow for Margo and I want something like that for my family. I lost my husband about two years ago and I want my family, who can't see us always, to know that the boys I are O.K."
I swallowed hard and told her that I understood.. all the while I knew I wished to make this incredibly special for Sandy, her boys and her loved ones.. Later, when we met she wanted to know if it was possible to incorporate her husband's photo in the slideshow and then showed me his picture. When I told her that I thought I could (I'd do my best), they all smiled and one of the boys whispered a faint "yes!!"

I was relieved and thrilled during the unfolding of the shoot.. From Momma's beautiful smile and spunk, the oldest son's wit and antics to the youngest son's compassion, this family encompassed it all and then some. I learned that they are all driven, kind and musically talented.. even Sandy threw her arms open during one part of the session and bolted sweetly part of a song. I did not hear much but it's clear she can sing.

Sandy.. thanks for putting this in my hands and allowing me the opportunity to get to know you and your your boys.. I hope that this is close to what you envisioned and that it is clear that indeed you and the boys are sooooo very happy together. Your strength is clear. Thanks for allowing me but just a glimpse into your hearts. Your boys are just lovely and it is clear that you love each other dearly. Stepping through the threshold of your front door it was almost palatable..

with out further ado please click here for your slideshow!

What an awesome family!

I like the seriousness of this one although the boys are really very funny! There were no shortages of smiles and laughing throughout the morning..

Sandy singing her song!

Harvest Fest 2009

2009-11-03T08:42:00.000-08:00

So the candy is gone and the sugar-rush is over (or almost), but the fact remains that the kids had an absolute ball at the "Fort" this weekend..

The little ones really came out with all of their adorable costumes and paraded around, played games, ate, participated in a soul train line, ate some more.. then (at the end..) how strategic.. they collected their goodie bag of candy and left.. to get that sugar rush in the car.. no joke!

The older teens are just about at the age where a costume is either here nor there but some made the effort and they too had a great time with a few games and (you will see) a Jello-with-whip-cream-eating contest. They ate as well and also received a bag of candy.

I don't know about the other parents there but it was really a joy to watch the little one's faces when the dancing started. Many looked confused when Mrs. H. lined them up in two lines they looked around for instructions on this "soul train" line game? The music started and Mrs. H. had to go down and almost hand carry them through the line. We all knew that they would get the hang of it eventually, so we waited! Then, something very special happened.... one little girl, all the while waiting her turn, paused and then burst out in a dance that caught everyone watching by surprise.. it was so hard to keep the camera focused for the tears of laughter coming out of my eyes.. Parents started chanting her name and quickly the others knew just what to do in this line... they followed suit and came down the line with their very own expressions of dance!!

And yes.. the slideshow is ready!!

Monday morning announcement.. o.k. Tuesday!!

2009-11-03T04:51:00.000-08:00

Well what happened to the big announcement for Monday?

Life is like that sometimes, in my world.. Plus I did not want you to fall out of your desk chairs because the post was here the very day I promised it..Forgive me friends!!

o.k. so here we go..

For the first time ever, I am offering a special on prints for the Holidays. For a limited time, you are able to receive 3 for 1 - 4x6's and 2 for 1 - 5x7 prints. These prices are good now through November 22nd and are available in your ordering portal. Just choose "3 for 1 special" or "2 for 1 special" when you choose the photograph you want to purchase. It's that easy! You will get three or two of the same print you purchased.

For 2009 Holiday Cards please view here and choose the style you want (style number under each card when viewed), go to the portal and choose your pictures. Pricing reflected in the slideshow has been reduced as well (see your portal) for the same limited time.

All reduced pricing and specials are good from now until the 22nd of November only. These prices are good only for orders not already taken and do not apply to wedding print credits. Get your selections in early and please to not delay as extensions of time can not be granted..(smile)

a little bit of whimsy photography will be closed for the month of December (with the exception of weddings already booked) so that I can have a stress-free, relaxed Holiday like all of you, however all cards should be arriving and ready for pick-up the week of the 7th of December and I will, of course, be available to give you any products ordered.. Smile!

DON'T HAVE YOUR PICTURE TAKEN YET?

I am offering a "Holiday Mini Session" because I know how busy we all are and I say it all the time, there is never enough time in the day to do all the things we need to do.

When: November 14th from
Time: 10am until 1:00pm
Where: Fort Washington Park
Cost: $125.00
Details:
This "Holiday Mini Session" Special gives you a 20 minute mini-session with me, an on-line proofing portal with access to specials, 25-5x7 linen,folded,Holiday Cards designed by me with one proof, and 1-8x10 from session.

To book your session click here and follow the directions to pay for session choose your time-slot.

So there you have it.. The Whimsical Holiday Special Announcementt courtesy of "a little bit of whimsy photography". As many of you know I have talked of doing this for years but have wondered if my customers would be interested so this will be the test. I hope you are encouraged at the savings announced here and will take advantage of them all. Let me know your thoughts and I'll talk to you soon.

and just because a post is not special without a picture and a slideshow that was made during last years big snowfall..!!

white gloves

2009-10-29T14:06:00.000-07:00

I promised many of you that I would create and thereafter offer a coffee table book featuring your kids, family or occasion. I've saved 10 to 12 years of some of your photographs just waiting for such a compilation of love. For my beloved new customers, you can certainly order one of these with just one shoot as you know how many of those pictures you have in the portal you love. (Example book number two of Baby S. is one shoot).

However, choosing the right manufactures with the quality that I demand for my customers with a price point that would not break the bank proved to be more than a notion. I searched to find the right product, found the time to design the sample then saved money to buy the sample and then..... WELL now, the wait is over and I am so beside-myself thrilled.. "It"... the book I have been raving about to many of you finally arrived.. complete with white gloves so that my fingerprints would not mar. White gloves guys..

Look at that!!!!

Red case complete with foil engraving (you chose the title)..

Complete with designed, wrap-around dust cover.. High quality art book quality pages.

This book is a bit different than the first with thicker pages! Same great quality.

This one comes with a designed dust cover too!

Bound, beautiful, hinged pages.

Who designs the book?
Every book is personally designed by me.

How long does it take to design?
About 2 to 3 weeks start to finish.. either with your input or without. Another 3 weeks for production and shipping.

How many pages?
As many as you want up to 100 pages or 50 spreads (a left and a right).

What sizes do they come in?
From 5x5 all the way up to 8x11.. second book comes in an 11x14 size.

How much does it cost?
Hurry these rock bottom prices won't last long, you have to trust me on this one. My customers whom I've been photographing for almost a decade now know that I am always a bit on the conservative side of the pricing until I am forced to raise prices! Do not delay on this one. I'm just saying!! This is not your put it together and watch it fall apart CVS Photo-book (I'm just saying). I guarantee it. View pricing.

Are these the prices that are in the Client order portal now?
No.. not the same quality and those will no longer be offered.. These books will replace those.

What do the pages look like and how many photographs per page?
The design is between you and me. You give me your ideas.. less designed, less populated pages, one photograph per page etc.. I go from there.

Will my book be ready for Christmas 2009?
No, but many of you have expressed wanting this book for yourselves not necessarily for a gift. To make it up to you, as I know you are disappointed, come back to this blog on Monday November 2nd for a monumental announcement concerning 2009 Christmas Card orders and a first ever whimsy "special offer". Good only for 20 days.. no revisions, no do-overs, no extensions, no excuses.. Be here or just miss out!! I'm just saying!!!
Smile my friends, it's not that serious but I'm not playing.. You have to love me!!

To see design #1 Click HERE

To see design #2 Click HERE

By for now.. talk to you on Monday!

michael + margo + little m

2009-10-18T16:11:00.000-07:00

Such a pleasure to be a part of this family's life for just a moment while we created these awesome portraits.. Michael, Margo and little m. came to me by way of Candace and Alex's baby S's baby shoot.

Having never met them before, it was refreshing walking into their home and feeling at ease right from the start. Little m. came right up to me and let me know that this session was going to be just fine. I was there to photograph primarily the baby or at least the family, but the electricity that flowed between Michael and Margo struck me as something notable, and worthy of a bit more attention, so while I certainly got plenty of pictures of little m., it was Michael and Margo's love (when little m. was off playing with my trusted assistant "Nash") that were incredible to capture. It must be the wedding photographer in me. I'm always looking for the LOVE.. They are a such beautiful couple and were game for anything I asked (with the exception of running on the golf course and stealing a few shots before we were captured and banned for life).. Michael was not having any part of that. "There is golf course edict to consider", he noted.(smile).

Michael and Margo, it was more than a pleasure to meet the two of you and your little princess little m.. The two of you are fierce in front of the camera and your love for one another is more than noteworthy, it's striking and real. Thanks for allowing me the opprutunity to capture these memories for you.. I look forward to doing it again and again as time goes by.

Click here for their slideshow

the eatmon family- Maryland photographer

2009-10-08T06:58:00.000-07:00

I have had the pleasure of capturing this family for many years now.. from the wedding, the maternity, the first born's baby pictures and now with Baby B (baby #2) almost a year old, we captured yet another session with portraits that are just spectacular.

Little S and Tiny B are just adorable. Mom and dad are quite the lookers as well. We had a little bribe session going on to get smiles out of Little S... "cupcakes for grandma"! Her face just lit up.. Do you remember what made you smile as a kid. Just the mere mention of the word caused your eyes to sparkle and a smile to emerge.. for me it was mashed potatoes with gravy... go figure... food... right?

click here for their slideshow!

Hey Little Girl!

2009-09-02T09:40:00.000-07:00

I just love it when my clients trust me and my vision. I listen to what they are trying to achieve and then my brain goes into overdrive with the possibilities. Do I come up with all of these creative shoots in my head? Well, I'd just be lying if I told you yes. Somewhere in between an ad, commercial, magazine, my minds eye and the left-creative-side of my brain I can usually spit out what I want to do before they get off the phone. I'm constantly looking around, when I'm driving, looking for my next hot spot. Candace is just such a client.

Although getting the balloons for this shoot caused a bit of an ordeal as little Mr._____ , (I can not tell you guys what she called him) in the dollar store blew up the wrong shade of green balloon and then tried to make Candace buy it anyway, had no idea that he would be left with 4 blown up balloons because of his little attitude. Meanwhile, little Miss I-have-three-kids and can handle anything with my eyes closed (that would be me) was in the car trying to calm down Little Miss S. as those big beautiful browns searched the car and saw no sign of mama. The tears, by the way, matched the size of her eyes.

"I thought you said she did not cry", I exclaimed as Candace approached the car balloon-less and obviously fit-to-be-tied.
"She usually doesn't, I don't know what is wrong.. I hope she is not sick."
(mama's famous last words..LOL!!)

Two stores later and 6 miles later, she emerged with 4 beautiful pastel balloons and a huge smile on her face. Now little Miss S. was asleep (smile).

Little Miss. S how adorable you are with your big brown eyes and your cashmere chestnut skin. How cute was your pink tutu and Birthday shirt. How bright are your eyes when you smile or laugh at your mama's "cough"? (the things we do to make our kids smile)

I enjoyed the shoot so much and so did all the passer-byers that just wanted to eat you up. Yes we perched the little baby on just about every pretty doorway, wall and sidewalk in town and even sat her in the middle of my favorite street.... and guess what? She loved it..

click here for her slideshow!

and just because it's her birthday.... her very own slideshow!

monnette & duc - a wedding

2009-08-05T16:06:00.001-07:00

The day was perfect, after the forecast called for rain, and it didn't.. So much to do as Monnette and Duc merged lives with two faiths into one. A Buddhist Ceremony and a Catholic Ceremony all in one day! I have to say that we were just thrilled to be taking part, in theory, in such rich customs wrapped tightly with eloquent traditions and ceremony. It was colorful, meaningful, rooted in faith and tradition (on both sides), respectful, serious and tied together with a big huge satin bow of love.

Monnette and Duc your day was just perfect and everything a marriage should be about: Love, Joy, Contentment, Commitment and Faith. As you start your journey together may you continue to love each other as much as you have all these years since High School. Thank you for the honor of transforming your day into the memories that will last a lifetime.

As per her usual, Susan of "Simply Elegant Weddings" worked out the fabulous details of each moment of this long day.

First the Buddhist Ceremony where a formal asking for permission for the marriage and presenting the brides family with a roasted pig and decadent gifts is custom.

The gorgeous bridesmaids ready for the day. We all had so much fun!

The beautiful Monnette in a relaxed pose in her first dress.

Bridesmaids having a little fun before the ceremony.

Duc looks mighty relaxed.. ready for a GQ spread.

The groomsmen arrive for the gift presentation portion of the ceremony.

The presentation of the gifts from the grooms family to the brides family.

Duc's father looking right into the camera as the crowd gathered to go to his house for the Buddhist ceremony.

Getting ready details for both ceremonies!

private (or not so) moment between Monnette and Duc during the ceremony.

We were able to sneak away to a secluded spot for their private session before the reception.

Just one of many of my favorites of the day! Limo by ING Limousine.

Come on guys we have a reception to go to!

Look at the details in this stunning dress. White Swan Bridal

On to the reception at Martin's Crosswinds in Bowie Maryland. The florals were designed and displayed beautifully by Da Vinci's Florist in Silver Spring.

First dance......adorable.

Dad's emotions...priceless. Good thing Julie and Seda where there from "Blue Sky Films" providing the live video for the entire day... These moments are really special for all the women out there who have a soft spot in their hearts for their fathers..(and vise versa).

Monnette showing off HER shoes as the guys tried to show off their matching socks.

A wonderful send off to the delightful couple.

and do not forget to click for their slideshow!

Just for the weekend

2009-07-28T20:18:00.000-07:00

Friends are hard to come by we all know that.. we love them, we hate them, in touch, out of touch, reaching out, don't want to hear from them, want advise, don't want to hear it, call me, don't bother.. it's a ladies thing..
This weekend we were all the better for it.. we came together and had a ball.. just for a day or two we spoke the unspoken, we reunited after a really long time, we caught up and stared at each other for that remnant of what we remembered last, we laughed till we cried and then just cried.. We were there for each other even though we all have our own kool-aid to stir (smile)..
Guys you are all beautiful and have all morphed into wonderful, strong, meaningful women.. what a blessing, after all these years, we can come together and have such fun just remembering the past. With no desire to re-live the past, we just allowed ourselves to acknowledge that it (the past) existed and that it served it's purpose well ushering us all into the ladies we have become.

and just because a post is better with a slideshow..

Fusion of Love!

2009-07-20T21:25:00.002-07:00

When I first heard about this wedding I was excited, curious and fascinated by their love and commitment for each other...they seemed so young. As Monnette and Duc recited their vows this past weekend and set out to live their lives as one forever, I was reminded that there is power in romance, passion and love. This was a fusion of cultures and religions, backgrounds and traditions but most of all it was a fusion of love.

Monnette and Duc thank you so much for allowing Eric and I to document your day. We had a ball shooting your wedding and other ceremonies, meeting your family, learning about your cultures and traditions and hanging out with your cool bridal party.. I can not wait to show you the rest but in the meantime if you can find an internet cafe in St. Lucia, here is a sneak peek of just one until I finish the rest of the editing.. Enjoy your honeymoon!

o.k... one more for the road!

Music Ministry's 3rd Anniversary

2009-07-20T04:45:00.000-07:00

It is my pleasure to present the 3rd Annual Music Ministry slideshow. I was honored and tickled at the same time when the phone call came over a month ago asking for my availability for this date. I cannot say enough about how this event touches me personally because I believe gospel music, in particular, touches my soul and always fills my spirit. If you watch others when the music starts you see a transformation of their spirit...some people get filled, stand up, clap their hands, gently rock, some people tap their feet, raise a hand or simply close their eyes and listen... whatever happens on the outside really does not matter, it's the transformation on the inside that is individual, personal, necessary and expected... what ever it is for you it is clear to me, as a person that watches intently and honestly... He is moving in each and everyone of us and it is very clear that we (me & you) "never would have made it" without HIM!!

One more thing! I do what I do because I love it.. Let's be clear, my gift/talent is a gift from God! I want to say thank you for allowing me to use my gift to magnify HIM!... but flowers made it oh so sweet, on this day. You guys knocked me off my feet presenting me with such an awesome bouquet... I almost dropped my camera I was so surprised!! THANK YOU!!!

enough said from me.. click here for the Slideshow

Dancing in His Glory!

2009-07-07T13:42:00.000-07:00

Once again, the Liturgical Dancers of Fort Washington Baptist Church in Fort Washington Maryland, celebrated their 3rd Annual Anniversary with demonstrations of dance with faith, commitment, praise, movement and the love of God. They are led by the uncompromising and ever faithful Beverly Carter.

It has once again been my absolute pleasure to document this very special day in these women and children of God's lives. Watching their faces and witnessing their movement seems to take you away, if not but for a moment, to reflect on how they are allowing themselves to be used by God.
Their special guests for the day, "Anointed Vessels" from Ebenezer Baptist Church,danced as well with complete conviction and dedication. Such beautiful women of God!

Enjoy their slideshow!

The FWBC Liturgical Dancers working it out!

Hats and Fans...taking you back!

Beverly receiving her flowers

Nikki, You HAVE Arrived

2009-06-17T19:19:00.000-07:00

Being invited to do the photography for Eric's first cousin's graduation celebration was a no brainier. After working out the little details like what to do with the kids (smile), I was in the car with my sisters and brother in law in route down to Portsmouth Virginia with one thing in mind... to make this a beautifully captured event for the guest of honor and host Nikki Reid..

She arrived late, pulling up with to the venue with a slow but steady glide. She opened the door of the car and the 4 of us started making jokes about how she was doing all late and all... It did not take long for her to mutter, while fighting back tears, that she had just left her husband Norris in the hospital. We stopped dead in our laughing, joking, ridiculing tracks and took deep breaths.. waiting to hear the details, finding out that he was stable, up and talking was a great relief. All the while, we were trying to figure out how in the world we were going to get her to concentrate on the affair that she and her friends had worked months to put together. The four of us knew that this would not be easy!

We listened to details while we made her apply makeup and put her clothes on knowing that the guests would be arriving soon.. daylight was leaving.. we had to get her outside and take her pictures.. she had worked so hard for this day to commemorate how far she had come and how hard she had worked to finish school. YEARS in the making, she never gave up, she kept going.. against all odds and finally made it. "Nikki had arrived". She has stories to tell, about her past and about her present... life "ain't been no crystal stair" but she strives to be the best she can be, walking with faith and conviction that only the best will do!

We got her outside and my sisters and brother in-law got to work. They made Nikki laugh telling stories about relatives and had her in stitches trying not to close her eyes as she smiled. Her smile is contagious. The hard work was trying to get a serious look out of her after the infectious laughter rolled in...

Later, as the guests arrived, she made a grand entrance down the red staircase and rested while her family and friends saluted her with words of wisdom, reflection, advice and love...

"When I think of you I just think"LOVE" her cousin smiled.... she wiped away tears.

Good food, dancing ("the purculator?) and fellowship followed and then time to say goodbye...

"Bitter sweet", she said as she wanted to remember her late father because she knew he would be so proud. She paid tribute to him by ordering and wearing a spectacular ice blue tailored suit from the place suit maker he frequented.."Michael Menswear"in Military Circle. The Swarovski Crystal bracelet and the gorgeous ring?.. presents from her husband..

"Go ahead..", he encouraged her to leave him, "you have worked hard, I'll be o.k.", he told her as he convinced her to leave the hospital..

Life is funny sometimes but one thing is clear. We have nothing to do with the greater path just how we choose to walk down it...

Nikki..You go girl.. you smile, continue to do good for the people you serve and your reward will be great. You are a rock and we all can only learn from you, how to keep going when everything seems too hard. You have incredible friends that wanted you to have it all on this day and planned with and without you to make this occasion as special as you are. Good friends are hard to find. Treasure them..

I will ask for prayer from all my faithful blog readers for your husband "Norris Reid" as he walks a path to recovery.

Aunt Carol? You and Uncle Percy have done well. I have no words to go further but to say that Nikki is so special and I have learned a lot from her over the past few months.. Stay strong and.... Eric and I Love you!!

Click here to see Nikki's slideshow!

A Surprise 75th Birthday Celebration!

2009-04-26T18:33:00.000-07:00

The week was rainy but that day was perfect.. sun shining, temperature moderate, no rain in sight and not a cloud in the sky. As if the day was tailor made for a very special person that was due for one of the biggest surprises of his life.

Wow! What a birthday celebration. It was complete with over 250 guests, a sit down dinner, an ice sculpture, and a program complete with touching tributes, stories, gifts, memories, honor and praise. A special tribute from the beautifully, talented Vickie Winans and a musical selection of another kind from the Ballou High School Marching Band. It was hard to compose myself during both performances because of the electricity in the room. After Vickie's performance of "King Jesus" I caught myself shouting, a squeal, out loud. I had to chuckle and look around to see if anyone heard my sudden outburst (smile); then off I went to capture the rest of the program complete with memories and love (the slideshow), stories of kindness and compassion (the shoes), friendship (the classmates from Bates High School), the musical connection (the marching band), gifts (the high school jacket and the commemorative brick). Good food, family, fellowship, friends and fun.
As I listened to the family and friends on the red carpet being interviewed what struck me was the love, respect and honor that each person reflected and the reverence they ushered to a man whom they know... loves God, preaches the word and brings people to Christ... over and over the accolades where memorable and encouraging, heartwarming and true.... I could not wait to finally meet him... and thus the time came when the room was hushed to silence and the crowd waited with heavy anticipation.

Two years in the making, by the mastermind Regi, the surprise of a lifetime was about to unfold.. the doors swung open and there he was, the guest of honor, Bishop Francis S. Myles, Sr. Pastor and Prelate of the House of Prayer Church of God, Inc.... I could go on for days about the details but I will let the pictures tell the story that only time prohibits me from finishing.
I'd be remiss if I failed to mention "Team Regi" so aptly named by one of the team's fearless leaders. This event will go down in many minds as the one that was above the rest and you all did such a spectacular job working together with the goal of making the day special for Bishop Myles.
Regi, thank you for trusting and allowing me the opportunity to capture this very special day for Bishop Myles. Eric and I were so honored to be apart of his 75th Birthday Celebration and left uplifted and filled with joy after being a part of this incredible day!

Click Here to see the slideshow!

monnette + duc

2009-04-23T17:50:00.000-07:00

The circumstances of the first encounter are clear...maybe.... He was standing out side of a classroom and she walked by. He asked a friend who she was and was given her name.
As he tells the story, she giggles and shakes her head "no" that he had it all wrong.. There was one thing she was truly able to commit to remembering. Upon seeing him one day Monnette got so flustered she fell.. That's right.. she saw him, tripped and fell on the floor.... "He did not even help me get up, he just left me laying there" she exclaimed... we all broke into laughter because High School memories do that to you!!

It's been a few years since they graced the halls of Bladensburg High School but one thing is clear. Their love for each other is apparent, genuine, pure and simple, kind, respectful and true and they are quite perfect for each other... He looks at her and she smiles, he touches her and she smiles and she does the same for him.

We had a lot of fun shooting this session and I can not wait to shoot their wedding in July!

Click here to see their slideshow

shondrea + eric - a wedding

2009-04-13T08:44:00.000-07:00

*On a crisp, mildly chilly, dreary but beautiful day in Baltimore.. a most spectacular event was to take place. That would be the blessed union between Shondrea Howard and Eric Reeves.. to be man and wife from that day to eternity.

As Eric and I drove to Baltimore.. I silently prayed for the drizzle that was falling on the windshield to just go away.. and then I remembered that rain on a wedding day is supposed to be good luck.. or so they told me way back when Eric and I got married..

Anyway..I was excited for Shondrea and Eric.. While meeting them months earlier they seemed like such a balanced couple.. she is confidently quiet, soft spoken but knows exactly what she wants and he balances that with reserved yet strong consideration that is willing to oblige albeit with a lot of careful thought. You can tell he suits her and her him.... a union that will last a lifetime!
And their Smiles!! Infectious, beautiful, complementary and sure to radiate any room... (you did not know smiles could do all of that.. did you?)

Shondrea and Eric... thanks so much for allowing Eric and I to be there and capture your wedding day.. although the weather was a bit grey that day, no one would ever remember for the spectacular intimate affair you hosted for your very special family and friends.. we were so honored to be a part of it all..

Vendor Corner:
*Flawless make-up by Tahisha Murray "Ty" of "Defining Beauty"
*Gorgeous floral arrangements by Claudette Chambers of "Enchanted Unicorn-Florist
*A beautiful Maggie Sottero dress from a very special boutique "Francesca's Bridal" of Baltimore.. Shondrea could not say enough great things about her new friend "Britt" (aka Brittany) and Francesca's Bridal.. you see Shondrea had been to several different bridal shops in the area but found a special place in this shop, as they treated her like a queen from the moment she stepped in the boutique.. They even sent "Britt", as Shondrea nicknamed her, to lace up her dress on the wedding day.. When I walked in the hotel room Britt was busing herself with helping everyone with adjustments to straps and sashes with needle and thread.. I asked her when she was getting ready.. you know.. the last bridesmaid to get dressed when I was informed she was there just to make sure the dress was laced up properly. I had to chuckle to myself.... Brit did not leave until Shondrea was safely in the limo.. Now that is service..!!

Click here to see Shondrea + Eric's slideshow

off he goes

2009-03-25T16:25:00.000-07:00

Jetting his head around the corner of his grandmother living room he said hello and proceeded to find his suit jacket.. after a brief conversation with his grandfather we started with the formal shots and although he sported his three piece suit with undisputed distinction and charm I could tell he was itching to loosen up..

I was thinking for your casuals we could shoot somewhere different.. do you know where there is a fire escape? ally or graffiti wall?

Oh I know where there is a graffiti wall... the ledge.. it's downtown... my friends and I hang out there sometimes......his voice trails off as he tells stories of the Ledge...

OK.. lets go! Without much more comment we jump in my car. As we near the first corner imagine my surprise when I find out that he does not know how to get there because he does not drive yet... smile.. I had to remind myself that teenagers seldom pay attention to where they are going (I mean the rights and lefts of driving).. they are just in the car and satisfied when you get them where they want to go... you, the train, the bus.. whoever!!

So, after much ta do, mis-turns, u-turns, laughing and the tales of what's to come at College we relied on a less than perfect navigational system getting us to.... whats close?... Urban Outfitters?... and we finally get there...

We climbed steps, bent under and over barriers, hiked down large boulders and arrive at a truly special spot.... THE LEDGE!! The view was spectacular, the water was glistening and the sun was bearing down... I had to remind myself several times not to get too close to the edge as my equilibrium is not quite what it used to be.. you know... when I was a teenager... ha, ha...

So Mr. M thanks so much for taking me to this little diamond in the rough for this shoot. . I really had fun and I'm so glad I did not fall over...
You are a handsome young man and as you go off to college in the fall be safe, be true to yourself and don't ever forget the special things that make you...you..
Good luck and continue to be blessed.

Click HERE to see KM's Slideshow!
P.S. Kenny I had to pick the song.. "Common" did not quite work.. (smile)

Inaugural 2009 - Obama

2009-02-02T16:34:00.000-08:00

Not for the faint at heart.. not for the weary.. The Crowds, the excitement, the blistery cold. Like something out of a storybook. The morning air was crisp and clean, fresh, breathable.. yet bitter cold down to the bone. We woke at 3:00am packed all the things we had carefully laid out the night before and headed to what proved to be one of the most exciting days of our lives.. The crowds were nothing compared to the cold. It whipped around you and caught you off guard every now and then but pure excitement made it manageable, bearable and worth it. We were there to witness History and we had our oldest daughter with us so that she could later say "I was there".(Hopefully she won't recall the frozen toes and the pile of papers she and her dad boldly left on the mall after tearing open fifty three packages of "toe-warmers" to no avail... "these things do not work"!!) My toes were warm as toast.. all I could do was laugh at them..
Did I mention... it was cold?

I might have missed it.. all he had to say to me at 3:00am was "baby..we can watch it from here".. I would have said "OK sweety not a problem, you know it's really cold out there..at least we will be warm!!"
Instead.. I hit the clock rolled over and he was throwing off the covers and was out of bed before I could complete the turn.. I could feel the cold in the air before I put my feet on the floor.. He was up, I did not have to say a thing... we were going! Not so secretly... I was elated.

We were there, we were proud, we were happy, we were representing, we were cold, we were together and we were part of history..May God Bless Us All!

Click here for the slideshow.

Don't forget the slideshow.. Click HERE to view

Understated charm.. It's the eyes

2008-11-11T16:10:00.000-08:00

Not often do we get to spend time, just the two of us..
There is always an older sister or a younger brother or a doting father around.. but today it was just me and my baby girl N.

No jeers from the peanut gallery (that would be her brother and sister) for this self motivated, smart, beautiful, determined, self professed middle child.... none of the comments... "that does not look right, fix your hair, you smile crooked, that will not work, look at me I can do it better.." Just the silence of the golden sun smiling down on us.. and the smiles between us... as I looked through the lens she seemed to morph into a young lady before me... not her mannerisms, not her words, not how she acted.. it was in my daughters eyes..looking back me (mom) as though I knew she was all grown up....It was all right there in her eyes! I swallowed hard and repeated what she has heard me mutter on many a photoshoot..."beautiful.." but this time it was directed at her and it was coming from me and she could tell it was different..

Life flies by really fast and sometimes I have to have to remind myself to stop, look, listen and feel those around me... Thanks N. for letting me work magic with your beautiful smile (complete with newly straightened teeth..), flawless pecan skin, cheerful disposition, understated charm and those awesome, perfect, almond-shaped eyes... I love you sweetie!

I love the way the sun caught itself in my lens..

The R. Family

2008-10-28T05:40:00.000-07:00

She keeps it all together! With a kind and gentle spirit, I did not find out until way later that she once took photography classes! What an honor to be chosen to take these photos for the R family. Although the weather kept us on our re-scheduling toes (life happens) for many weeks She was determined not to have the boat chart off course because "We" wanted to make this happen.

" I promise if we wait for the weather you will be happier.. if we go today, you won't be able to get in the grass...it rained all day yesterday and the ground is soaked." I said.

I'm sure she was thinking that she was not going to be rolling on the ground, but she conceded to my best advise.. the sun was shining at that moment we were on the phone but the forecast had called for rain.. before long the sky opened up and the rain just poured...

Life happens.. and somehow it is always hard to predict.. but one thing is sure.. this family is not only beautiful but the kids, mom and dad are solid as a rock... they love each other and it shows. The kids were great... little A. even learned very quickly how to pop her leg, as I showed her mom she stood there and took mental notes.. she got it and she never stopped. It was quite cute, I'd look through the lens and Little A. would be off to the side with her hands on her hips and her leg popped. Way too cute!..

And as per usual with these family shoots, I always make time for mom and dad together, alone and it's always refreshing to see when mom and dad cuddle close the sparks that fly all around and then that smile comes across their faces that acknowledges they know I did it on purpose. (smile)...

The R. Family... thanks for allowing me to do my thing with you... never once did you complain and that is always nice..

Rhese and Donna - Wedding

2008-10-24T19:51:00.002-07:00

Is it time to party yet?

That's where they met... A Party! Donna at Howard University and Rhese at Georgetown University but on that night.. just a party.. Do you think it went through their minds at the time? This could be my soul mate? Could we be together forever, loving through the good, the bad, the bliss, the blessings and all the rest that comes with this journey we all call life?

Probably not...but I know they danced!!

That was many moons ago, as many of their friends and family describe it, but one thing is so very clear to me... Rhese and Donna are well balanced... they don't have to say much, at this point, they can just look at each other and know what the other is thinking... he can just look at her and make her laugh and then they both laughing because her laugh is contagious and so is their LOVE!

Many times during the day I could see the joy, pride and excitement gushing from Rhese. Donna would look softly into his eyes and he demeanour would instantly mellow...don't get me wrong, he was still bursting at the seams but a smile would emerge... he would bend down and kiss her and she would kiss him back...

Rhese was ready to dance!!! Is it time to party yet? Both arms extended in the air...
When they opened those doors to the room announcing them as Mr. and Mrs. Gibson, I could feel their joy and excitement... The whole room erupted in cheers...They were married and you could not tell them anything...

Rhese, Donna... thank you so much for allowing Eric and I to be apart of your beautiful day... From the first day we met I was sure that this was going to be a special day for the two of you and one for us as well... Your family and friends embraced us and made us feel like we were family. May you and Rhese find all of the joy, love and peace this world can afford you...

Click here to see Rhese and Donna's slideshow!

Our New Website

2008-10-17T16:40:00.000-07:00

O.K.... without further a do.. We hereby unveil our brand new website that We have been editing for what seems like months. It has been a true labor of love and We are so proud to present to some and re-expose to others our true vision for "a little bit of whimsy" and our future ... It looks a lot like the other site but much bigger and with the focus being on Weddings...

Yes we will still shoot other sessions but our focus is the wedding market.. Know anyone getting married? Send them a link.. belong to a social group in the area please feel free to pass it along to everyone in your mail box...

We will still be posting to the blog more frequently so don't forget to bookmark it as well....

so here goes..

www.alittlebitofwhimsy.com

If you don't see it right away keep checking back and once again... thanks for looking and sharing..

ps. some of the slideshows will be down until uploaded again to the new server.. bear with us!

David and Beverly - married

2008-10-16T10:51:00.000-07:00

They met over the phone and carried on with hushed whispers for a while. She playing hard to get and he, hearing the soft voice, playful tone but graceful strength, wanted more. She could tell but chose to carry on with the phone conversations for a while.
At some point they agreed that they needed and wanted to meet... that was four years ago and although they have been so much a part of each others lives for the years they understood that something was missing.

David told me "It just did not make sense anymore not to carry it to the next step"

They stepped alright... right into each others arms and with grandeur, class, whimsy, tease anticipation and lots of thought.

After much hesitation I spoke to Beverly one day about the timing of the day...
"It's going to be dark after the wedding and although I'll do alter shots.. I'd rather have my eye teeth pulled! Would you consider (I proceeded with my request) seeing David before the wedding for a "The First Look"... I'll set up the location and you two can see each other before the wedding and complete your formals as the sun is setting... After the ceremony my can take your time with your guests"
"It's a perfect idea" she uttered..
"I was trying to find a way to see him and spend some private time together before the ceremony but for the life of me could not figure out how to make it happen....Ah wow! It's just perfect"...

And so it was... Just like out of a fairy tale.... Eric shot David at the famous Gaylord Hotel and ushered David over to the house where he waited for Beverly. On my cue Beverly came sashaying down her red brick walkway, flanked by her handsome sons. They essentially gave their mother to David... I could not have asked for a more perfect couple to launch what I hope to be common place for many more brides to come.

Introducing "The First Look" featured in their slideshow!!

For the sake of surprise, Beverly walked down the aisle to the song in the slideshow with her utterly fabulous hat (that David had not yet seen)... keeping it fresh!!... Oh! and YES, he did sing to her!

Age, beauty and confidence

2008-10-15T14:31:00.000-07:00

Baby ____ is well on her (I'll call her a her just because I can...not because I know).. you see Kim and Victor have 3 beautiful boys already so I'm personally wishing for a Girl for them...

Of course Kim and Victor are well pleased to have a healthy, happy child no matter what the gender and are so settled with whatever they are blessed with, the automatic question from family and friends just gets a slight smile in response. I took pictures of them years ago when they were "with" child number two or three and made shower invitations for their party.. they, thereafter, moved to Florida and then back again and low and behold she stumbled on my website and e-mailed me with excitement that my photography business had taken off...

Kim is a natural, a self-proclaimed perfectionist, a hard worker, a mother and a wife. She is so comfortable in her skin and with the God given natural form that is giving new life that she even tried a few "Demi Moore" poses for her portfolio. I must say.. they are outlandishly beautiful, tasteful and fierce!! Want to see them? you'll have to ask Kim for her code... ha, ha, ha....

But here are a few!!

It's just me and you!

2008-10-15T14:09:00.000-07:00

We welcome with love the oh so precious Baby S! Look how adorable she is with her tiny lips, tiny nose and precious eyes. Her mom and I tried and tried to get her to sleep.. wouldn't you know, it took Dad to calm her down and fall asleep.

"Hey little one.. it's just me and you!" and she was out....

Guys congratulations on your little bundle of joy.. I'm so happy that I had the pleasure of capturing some of your little one's first photos..

It's about THE LOVE!

2008-08-26T12:29:00.000-07:00

I never heard the news, but when I saw her for the first time after her abundant love started growing inside of her I refused to acknowledge it until I was sure.. I kept a straight face and laughed and talked as though her abundant love was not staring me in the face...literally...
"Alex and I want you to do our shoot.... let's set a date... right now....."
and later
"we will do another shoot when..."
and then
"we'll come back when....."
meanwhile..... I was still at the abundant love part... (smile)

I understand why you two came to me but as I shouted over and over during the shoot, THIS shoot was really all about the love.......
THE LOVE that you two have for each other is so very easy to see.. it's in your smile, your wiggled nose when he talks to you, it's in the silly stories you tell about the other, it's about how you lean on him even when the camera was on the floor, the jesters, the uncomplicated notion of it all ...... and last but not least...... it is in those eyes...

Isn't new life all about THE LOVE!... yeap.....

Family Reunion - Moore/Kent

2008-08-22T07:19:00.000-07:00

I don't agree to do Family Reunions often.. it's hard to venture amongst a union of people whom have known each other for... well... forever, and blend in as though you are a distant cousin with a camera..
I'm so happy that I agreed. This family was so friendly and proved my theory wrong.. From the moment I got there they clapped and shouted exuberant hello's with big smiles and welcomed me as though I was that distant cousin. Little did they know I was about to ask them all to walk a mile to the lake to take their family picture (smile).. I heard no one complain... they just took the hike, to the lake..

To the family.. thank you so much for allowing me to come and document just this day that brought you together in D.C. from all over the country.. may you always be close and blessed!

Click here for the slideshow

Senior- Class of 2009

2008-08-20T19:16:00.000-07:00

Quiet, composed, reserved.. really quiet.... Beautiful, smart and without a doubt she is a generous leader and advocate for all of the girls on the soccer team. In school she is focused and balanced... no one has to tell me this about her, I know...

Thanks JBH for trusting me to take your senior pictures and for allowing me to trudge off through the thicket, with camera in hand, ready to make my vision of days earlier come to light. You were perfect for this capture.

Click here to see her slideshow

In the eyes?

2008-08-13T19:23:00.000-07:00

I see it all the time and this time was no exception. The hair, the matching bows, the clothes to die for, the perfect location and the sun just right peeking through the trees. Everyone, including my helpers (my kids) are all set to go... then the little one is released from the carseat ready for the day in the park.. they usually take one look at me and my gear, my kids, my props and they peek out of the corner of their eye at their mom and without saying a word, without even a murmur... it's all in the eyes.... Lady.... you have 3 minutes to get this... me, I mean, in all of my two year old-glory and then I will be done...
Oh No!! Don't pull out the gum, candy, pennies and even dollars... Don't get me wrong, I'm thrilled that you want me to see myself in the back of your camera.. but that does not mean that you will ever see another smile on this face for the next hour... Hey Lady... I'm TWO.. and it is my job to make my mom crazy.
As I try to reassure the mother that I have succeeded in getting the shots, that the little one looks perfect to me, that the smile is really not necessary... that the day is not lost and she will be surprised and happy with the pictures... I look in my cameraback and what I see is simply perfection.. Time and time again. Because you see, the truth behind the perfect shot is not the smile... It is and will always be in the eyes...
Just look at this beauty...

she smiled plenty.. it was just quick and then gone in a flash...

thanks mom.. we got it..

50 Years Of Wedded Bliss!

2008-07-23T06:36:00.000-07:00

What an absolute pleasure it was to witness the renewal of vows between Mr. and Mrs. Wilson. After 50 years of marriage they once again expressed their love for each other before God, family and friends. Mrs. Wilson with her Barbadian rapture evokes a longing to move a little closer to hear her spoken words... her wit is contagious and charm is unmeasurable. You need just look into her beautiful blue eyes to see it... need I say more? Mr. Wilson, with a demeanor so strong yet subtle, kind and soft spoken it is easy to imagine how they fell in love with each other so long ago.
We were honored to be there to capture what was truly a spectacular event that their daughters expertly planned. These ladies are classy... no doubt!
Bolling Air Force Base Officers Club was the perfect backdrop for this amazing couple. Floor to ceiling windows with the mid afternoon sun setting on the reception made for a beautiful glow that filled the room and set the mood. Dexter Fields, as usual, worked his magic on the glorious floral creations and tablescapes and Vince Chapman and his crew had everyone swaying and softly rocking their heads to the cool smokey jazz that infused the room.

Mr. and Mrs. Wilson, Happy Anniversary! We wish you many more years of that ultimate wedded bliss that you obviously have a good handle on!

Click HERE to see their slideshow (p.s. Mr. Wilson picked this music for he and his bride to dance to. At one point, there were three of us, telling him that we did not think "you and me" was the name to this "Aretha" song. He gently smiled and started singing the words all the while gently insisting that "yes it is... I know". It tickled me, just a bit when I thought back to the conversation.. thinking this must be the equilevant of my children telling me that I don't know that "The Commadors" sang "Just To Be Close To You".) Life is funny!!

Mrs. Wilson looking on as her 4 of 5 (a baby) grandchildren surround her on the dance floor... I personally love this one!

That's a Wrap..

2008-07-03T03:55:00.000-07:00

There are only a few words to describe it when Yvonna and her mom (and Auntie Candace) come to visit the studio for a shoot. I heard mom utter softly.. "You have to just stop Delores.. or you'll be here forever. "

I look around put my camera down trying to figure in my minds eye that I really do have enough and then.........there is another shot..

"Don't take her away.. oh look... look at her... there is another." My camera seems almost to have a life of it's own and yes.. you almost have to just pick up and call it a wrap for me... Not a bad thing I suppose. Just a lot of pictures to choose from (not for the weary or faint at heart) but that is why you come to me in the first place.. right?

How could you possibly deny me getting this one... Behold... it was the last shot!!! and when I saw it I knew it was special... and so is Yvonna...

How special...

Can you look at this one and not smile? if you can... there is something wrong....

Happy Anniversary Church Choir

2008-06-24T04:51:00.000-07:00

Music that ministers to your soul. Every time I hear my Church choir my spirits are raised and my soul is nourished. It reminds me often of my grandmother... slowly making her way down the big cement steps (one at a time) from her home in Baltimore, getting in the car with plastic bubble seats.. you know the kind you would slide around on if you were not holding on... I know you remember... My legs would hurt later from gripping my patented leather shoes under the seat trying desperately to navigate the hump in the floor, not slide into my brother who would be bothered by the imposition of being touched and not get black marks on my white shoes... That ride to Church would either turn into a giggle fest, as we slid into each other around every corner, or a fight... depending on which side of the bed he (my brother) woke up on... either way, the noise was going to get someone in trouble. Grandma did not play..

She would give us each a few quarters to put in the collection plate and would sit beside us proud..... just happy that her grandchildren were there with her I suppose.. or perhaps (this is more like it) she was just happy to be in the house of the Lord. When the music began, the church would heat up and the people would start to sway and if it was a particularly moving song people would stand and sometime even walk the floor... I would look at her for assurance that everything was alright and sometimes see tears in her eyes... She was just happy to be in the house of the Lord...

Grandma Beulah is gone now but I still hear songs, to this day, that remind me of her and move me the same. Sunday night was no exception.. Fort Washington Baptist Church Family.... I love you guys!!

Click here to see their slideshow

Mike and Kia - Wedding

2008-06-08T11:58:00.000-07:00

They met one faithful night at “Dream”…. That’s all I needed to know. The rest is apparent through their eyes when they look at each other. “Love is precious, love is kind ….” Michael and Kia embody all of what this verse promotes and then some.

As I stepped from the car the heat took my breath away, I was embarking on a day that had been planned for months, maybe years (the shoes). After all is said and done we all know that it was His plan that made it all so…and for me to be there as well. Grateful? You bet. There were too many treats for the eyes for me to describe… a photographer’s dream wedding for all to witness. But this day was not about me, it was about Michael and Kia.

Whitehall Manor was the absolute perfect setting for this glorious affair. Situated at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the sun shown perfectly through the trees as the ceremony began. Susan Smith from "Simply Elegant Weddings" beamed with pride as she lifted the back of Kia’s dress helping her cross the graveled path to her father. All that was planned and dreamed was coming together perfectly via her coordination and would unfold before all of us like a perfect orchid opening slowly on a Spring morning. With Kia’s hair adorned with orchids, makeup perfectly applied by Ky and a perfectly fitted Lazaro dress from Ann’s Boutique, Kia and her father made their way across the lawn to greet her soon-to be partner for life.

Looking at the scene from afar it was hard not to notice the breathtaking floral decor skillfully created by Linda Merritt that graced your eyes at every turn. With "Ewabo", the Pan players ready to play, dinner in preparation, three cakes ready for guests and a DJ ready to rock the manor, the day was unfolding just as Kia and Mike could have only hoped for.

Kia and Mike, thank you so much for choosing me to document your wedding. From the time we all met at your engagement session I could tell that we were going to have a blast at the wedding. You are both kind, thoughtful and trusting people whom Eric and I took the greatest pleasure in capturing. Thanks ..

Click Here to see their slideshow
(may take some time to load.. please be patient... it is worth the wait)

Thanks to Doll, my ever persistent sister-in-law, who insisted that Kia at least look at my website.

Michael and Kia - Engagement

2008-04-23T13:03:00.000-07:00

It is important for me to meet the Bride and Groom before the wedding day, engagement sessions are perfect for this. We were put off for what seemed an eternity because of our busy schedules and then the rain or impending rain. Kia was clear, she understood my vision for their shoot and once I told her my ideas, there was nothing that was going to stop us, together, from making it happen.

Kia and Michael are such a warm and funny couple. They have a chemistry that is subtle but magical. There were times during the shoot when I just sat and watched thru the lens and let their natural instincts take over. I wanted them to feel like models for the day and I have to say I think they did an awesome job.

Michael and Kia... thanks so much for trusting me and allowing me to help you express what is naturally there between the two of you. I had a blast and so did my bug fearing assistant. (smile)...

Eric and I can not wait until the wedding!!!!

see their slideshow...CLICK HERE

To see more of their engagement shoot CLICK HERE to see a slideshow!! Don't forget to post comments to the happy couple!!

Off you go..

2008-04-23T07:40:00.000-07:00

We watch our children grow with hopeful anticipation that they will BE ... whatever that "BE" is for parents, if you ask, is different depending on so many things and it changes as the children grow up.

This beautiful young lady is well on her way to BE...! Mom and Dad...you should be very proud...

AW... you go girl!

Out Of Her Element!

2008-04-01T07:06:00.000-07:00

Her grandmother spoke of her in hushed tones through my car window on many occasions. Telling me short stories of where she was and what she and her mom and dad were up to and the exotic places they were able to live. You know... that very proud and adoring talk from grandmothers who tell the stories of their little grandchildren. I knew this little one was special and I wanted to take her picture from the moment she was first described. " ... I'll call you when they come to town again maybe you can take her picture. I've told my daughter about you..."

Last week I passed the grandmothers house, whizzing by as usual, ready to throw my hand up to extend informal greetings and there she was.. so small, gentle with the most precious eyes you have ever seen. Tossed sun lit hair and a warm perched smile. She had a relaxed demeanor that only an island child has. I backed the car up 50 yards and immediately arranged to take her picture.

After meeting her mother, I now contemplate that perhaps the relaxed demeanour comes from those who are closest to you and not necessarily the environment in which we live. None the less... mother, daughter and grandmother... certainly very much alike...

Thanks to grandmother and of course mom... who did not know me from Adam but trusted the gentle advice from her mom...

Looking forward to taking another round of pictures when Dad can come.

Take care..

The perfect pair!

2008-03-24T07:21:00.001-07:00

We all know those perfect jeans that you wear until they fall off, or that favorite sweater that grows holes and does not matter, or the pajamas that you could swear were your friend. The world of favorites does not go away but it seems to change.. I have watched our daughter put on this sweatshirt and wear it like it is a piece of favorite jewelry.
In the morning.. she has it on.. in the afternoon she has it on.. after school it once again appears, and at night she will sometimes even sleep in it. It seems like it is in the wash every time I go in the laundry room. She will even wash it all by itself to make sure it is ready to put back on. She has now added another favorite.. the proverbial pink plaid pajama pants. I thought I'd better take a picture of the perfect pair that she just won't give up.. after 10,000 washings they are the softest pieces of clothing in the entire Holloway household.. there is only one small problem...

I won't be the unusually frank mom who will embarrass her, not this time.. Lets just say, they are going away soon unless she wants to make them into Capri's or shorts (smile)..

What about it does she love so much? I had to wonder and then it dawned on me that the sweatshirt to her is like my favorite pair of jeans dawning holes in both knees; I wore them until I just could not justify being forty something with my knees hanging out. The kids thought they were cool. Teachers and Principles just thought.. I'm sure..
But if you took them away I would feel miserable.. So it is the same with her...
You are your mama's child and that is clear.. you will look back on these days and remember these plaid pants and the sweatshirt and recall how they made you feel when you put them on, just like I still go into my closet every now and then and put on my favorite butter soft Jeans complete with holes and recall how I used to feel when the holes were not there!!

and you thought you were helping mom out with focus issues.. Thanks sweety.. I love you!!

Days Gone By!

2008-03-24T05:45:00.000-07:00

Such a funny relationship is ours.. We lived together after college.. ready to spread our wings and make it on our own.. a three bedroom apartment, but who was to get the largest room? Phyl insisted, but Denise (our other roommate) and I made her pay more for the privilege of more space and her own bathroom.. Phyllis went to decorating and I will never forget that teal and black bedspread that she treasured.. not to mention the matching shower curtain and floor mats in her adjacent bathroom. Too funny now, but hilarious then.

We both started flying the friendly skies of Delta Airlines and savored those times we had as "just us girls". Making it on our own. Clothes, shoes, haircuts, food, no food, parties, decorating the place (we left that up to Denise)....... Not two months later did I meet the love of my life who walked up to me on a plane and proceeded to change everything . Romance, teddy bears in the mail, travel, proposal, marriage and later..kids.

Things proceeded to change for Phyl too. William came walking into her life in much the same way..on a plane as well and later they too were married. Travel, moving, jobs, romance and kids!

Eighteen years for Eric and I and Fifteen years for William and Phyllis.. we haven't changed much... Have we?

Thanks Guys.. Happy Easter!

Hey There Yvonna!

2008-03-08T19:38:00.000-08:00

At first glance she was not having any part of it.. pensive, searching, thinking, you could almost hear her thoughts. They were written all over her face..
What is she doing here? What are those bags for? Who is this lady mom? What is that thing in her hand? Is mom going to leave? oh and ohhhhh what was that flash?
Then mom started the music and she was transformed in an instant.. the rhythm had her dancing, hands clapping, head moving to the beat... and all the questions seemed to melt away.
She is growing fast guys.. Enjoy!

Hurry up and wait..

2008-02-25T16:20:00.000-08:00

It is very hard to tell an expectant mom "everything will go smoothly" and "you will be back on your feet in no time" and have her look at you as though she believes it. In this case they both looked at me like I had two heads. I had fun recording these moments for Tiffiani and Louis.. they are due in a few weeks and are really, really...READY!! Good luck you guys.. can't wait to see the baby boy... don't panic family and friends... I'm not telling any secret. (I've had three.. it's just my guess)..
Click on the picture below to go see your session photos..

Happy Birthday Gene!

2008-02-14T16:43:00.000-08:00

Click HERE to see Slideshow!! turn up the volume!!
A Very Special Happy Birthday goes out to Gene..

Camelle spoke softly as she whispered that she needed Eric and I to come to Gene's Surprise Birthday Party. Gene was just steps away and was thinking we were just working out the details of the family shoot we were about to start..

Later she confessed that she did not want to burden me with taking the pictures.. "I just want you to come and enjoy yourself, you know relax and not work."
Are you kidding ME!! This is what I do.. This is what I love.. it does not define me but is a big part of what I am.. I get a thrill out of making it happen.. God's gift to me and to all that look at it and love it as well..
"a moment in time.. to be treasured forever." Eric and I were glad to be just a small part.. I took some pictures, he took some pictures.. later we just danced!!
The party rocked.. you know the blue light, basement, back-in-the-day-type-party.. Mr. dj from Master Productions had the place rocking late into the night, Premier Productions of Maryland was there to capture it all on video and Danny's Catering of Indian Head topped it all off by suppling the awesome soul food. You know...the kind of Mac and Cheese that makes you go hummmmm!!!
Thanks Camelle for the invite and Happy Birthday Gene!.. You are not Over the Hill.. you are blessed..

Dear First Lady Vicki

2008-01-22T21:01:00.000-08:00

Click Here to view the "First Lady Day Slideshow"

What a blessing it is to have you as First Lady of FWBC. Thanks for all that you do and may you have many more years of fellowship and friendship with the ladies (specifically) of FWBC. May you find comfort in the fact that we have your back... more importantly may God continue to bless you and your precious family.
To all of you who helped plan this event for Vicki, thank you for trusting me to record this special occasion for her. Over the years you have helped me grow as a photographer and designer by allowing me to record many events at FWBC. I will always be grateful for that. Enjoy the Show!

One more thing... a special thank you to our very own Fred Dendy who allowed me to use his song "Here I Am", with lyrics by our very own Joii Foxx. Fred and Joii both have cd's available for purchase here on the web.

Twins are twice as nice!

2008-01-04T11:53:00.000-08:00

Click Here to see slideshow
Another first for me.. Twins.. (a boy and a girl)!

Twice the ears..
Twice the nose..
Twice the blessing, God always knows..
Twice the dreams
Twice the tears
You'll build twice the memories in all of your years!

Thanks Hollie.. You've been blessed and so have I to have met you and your kids..

New Years Day.. "It's an emergency!!"

2008-01-04T11:36:00.000-08:00

"It's an emergency", she uttered.. "I hope you can help me out". As I held my breath as to what she was about to ask (at 9:00pm new years eve), I was shocked at the request but deeply honored that she thought of me. I was smiling the whole time she was making her plea and knew that if it was humanly possible I would be there for her.
You know you love what you do when your heart skips a beat at the chance to make someones dream come true. It is for her Dad.. how could I say no. So I said yes!
What a blast this was to get all of this family together for a family portrait. I enjoyed meeting each and everyone of you.. I hope the guest of honor loves his portrait, there is definately love that is felt when you look in the faces here.. May God continue to Bless you and Keep You All!!

Our Beach!

2007-12-30T22:35:00.001-08:00

Click here to see the slideshow
What fun it was first scouting this location.. I have the best customers in the world. Year after year they come up with new ideas for their family pictures in some of the most unusual locations. Mrs. V described what she wanted and we both searched until we found the perfect location.. the driftwood was right in place for the perfect shot.. God was watching over us...

You all are too much..

2007-12-30T22:30:00.000-08:00

Everything was going fine until I told these two (adults) to get on the ground... I suppose I should know we are not getting any younger.. Tony laughed so hard we were all in tears..

thanks guys for another great shoot!!

Our great nephew..

2007-12-30T22:25:00.000-08:00

I could not resist when I saw his eyes.. I knew he was a charmer...

Babies galore!

2007-12-30T22:19:00.000-08:00

Takes me back to a time that seems like yesterday... So innocent and precious.

can you say photogenic?

2007-12-30T22:14:00.000-08:00

The whole family is just beautiful.. just look..

My favorite people..

2007-12-30T21:59:00.000-08:00

Diana, Tony and Kids.. What a special time in all of your lives.. You kids are growing so fast.. Thanks for helping me create memories that will last you a lifetime..

First Family At Years End.. 2007

2007-12-30T21:53:00.000-08:00

Great families are hard to come by... This one is precious, kind and true...
Thanks Vic, Pastor and Girls!

Gottcha!!

2007-11-14T10:48:00.000-08:00

You two are something else.. what a pleasure to once again capture brother and sister. I aim the camera and wait patiently for the the little ones to look my way... or maybe not (smile)... ever present and patient because I'm determined to get THE shot for mom and dad.. one would be good two would be great.. more than that is just down right exciting.. Gottcha!!

Words can not express..

2007-11-04T14:55:00.000-08:00

Hey you guys finally let me take a picture of you.. you two are so adorable together.. and thanks for trusting me to take Tre's pictures year after year since he was a wee little boy. It has truly been a pleasure to be the one to capture those memories for you and all of your family and friends. I know what a blessing he is to you, but never forget what a blessing he is to others as well. Next year I'll have to bring my ladder to be at eye level.. Oh! thats right.. Next year the family gets to be on the Christmas Card.. May God continue to Bless You All..

Family portrait..

2007-11-04T14:49:00.000-08:00

Once again a beautiful couple ready for the family portrait.. how cute is that little face? Sorry you two, I have way more than 25 to show.. (smile)... thanks for the great time...

Oh My!

2007-11-04T14:46:00.000-08:00

my babies are almost grown now.. This little one stole the show with her big beautiful brown eyes.. and curly black locks..

What a Day.. What a Couple

2007-10-23T14:10:00.000-07:00

Just in time for Fall. This adorable couple was married September 29th, 2007 in Fort Washington Maryland. Eric and I had the pleasure of capturing the event which started at sunrise.

Click HERE to see their SLIDESHOW

Click HERE to see their wedding album pages

We Love the Hawks!

2007-10-07T00:02:00.000-07:00

With the chill of fall in the air and the sun going down.. the 90 lb Hawks proved themselves once again..

check out their very own awesome SLIDESHOW

All dressed up..

2007-09-12T06:19:00.000-07:00

these kids were good sports and gave mom exactly what she wanted..
thanks for helping with baby brother, he had other things on his mind.

First Lady is Glam!

2007-09-12T06:12:00.000-07:00

had a ball shooting First Lady Vic.. she proves once again that she is beautiful and is a natural in front of a camera..
it was hard to keep the camera from shaking we were laughing so hard at times..

kim and richie getting ready for the big day...

2007-09-12T06:05:00.000-07:00

you guys were great and who knew there was a beach down there in St. Mary's County.. And who knew richie wants to be a model in his next life.. a "GQ model", says kim!!

You Guys Were too Much Fun..

2007-09-11T23:03:00.000-07:00

Lets not forget Savion and Mom!!

2007-09-11T22:34:00.000-07:00

How Cute.. How Sweet..

2007-09-11T22:22:00.000-07:00

miss olivia was next

2007-09-11T22:05:00.000-07:00

just look at how she has grown and those eyes are just heavenly.. mommy found the perfect book.. "OLIVIA"