Darcy, Bella, & Izzie

Yesterday afternoon, we had a really fun photo shoot with Cami’s tennis friend, Darcy, and her adorable black labs, Bella & Izzie! Darcy was just adorable! And Bella & Izzie were sooo sweet!!! šŸ™‚

Amazing Aubrie

I recently had the joy of photographing Amazing Aubrie’s baby portraits! Her parents, Brittany & Mitch, have been two of our FAVORITE people in the world, ever since photographing their beautiful wedding many years ago.

Aubrie joins big sis, Jocelyn, who joined the family a few years ago. CONGRATULATIONS on the new addition, Brittany & Mitch! You guys got yourselves another winner!!!Ā  šŸ™‚

Bull Island Sunrise Photography Tour (Part 1)

I recently had the privilege of joining a Sunrise Photography Tour at the Boneyard Beach on Bull Island with the fine folks from Coastal Expeditions. What a FANTASTIC experience!!!

For the ride out there, Captain Chris was exceptionally well organized, very professional, and incredibly personable. His sense of humor kept everyone smiling in spite of the cold, dark, pre-dawn hours at 6:00 AM. We arrived with the perfect amount of time to setup and begin photographing the beautiful pre-dawn light, and ensuing suunrise. The images turned out STUNNING! I’m sure several will end up in my “Favorites” collection!

After the sunrise, Chris explained all the options available to our group. Most headed back with him to the mainland as the sunrise was what they had come for. Others had the option of riding the vehicle with him back to the dock, but staying on Bull Island to explore the southern section, riding back on the Ferry at noon. I opted to strike out from Boneyard Beach to the northern tip of the island where Chris gave me excellent guidance on the best birding and avian photography locations. With the gorgeous early morning light, I got tons of wonderful images of a number of species of elegant birds. Plus I enjoyed the exercise of the lengthy hike as I explored the entire island.

After a nice repose and bag lunch at the lookout tower, I made my way to the southern end of this protected “gem” of Cape Romain NWR. While walking along a trail in search of my next image, I bumped into Captain Will, who had finished his duties on the ferry and was out to stretch his legs before the return trip at 4:00 PM. An avid birder and photographer himself, he was ready with camera in hand. I’ve never met a stranger with a camera! And this was no exception. We joined forces and enjoyed the remaining hike back to the boat, stopping to shoot together along the way. Will is so incredibly knowledgeable about the refuge, the island, and nature in general. I learned so much listening to him, and loved his enthusiasm for the great outdoors.

Back at the dock, folks who had come over on the morning or mid-day ferry were already starting to gather for the final shuttle off the island. Will and his crew brought us home safely, but not before sharing all kinds of insights about the ecosystem and the creatures that live there. We even paused to photograph a majestic immature bald eagle perched on a small tree overlooking the vast expanse of grassy marsh. What a great highlight to conclude an absolutely perfect adventure!!!

Many thanks to all the leaders, crew, and support team at Coastal Expeditions for all that they do to spread appreciation and conservation for this beautiful planet we live in!

* Images from the second half of the trip to come soon *

Kelly & Ellis at Lowndes Grove Plantation

One week ago today, Kelly & Ellis hosted the most AMAZING celebration of their love and devotion to each other! šŸ™‚

Kelly is a friend of Cami’s and they play tennis together on the same team. So it was doubly exciting when they asked us to be their wedding photographers. Professionally, we were excited because Kelly & Ellis are just amazing people, and an absolutely beautiful couple. Personally, we were excited because of the joy it gave us to see our friends so happy!

Kelly & Ellis were married on the grand lawn at Lowndes Grove Plantation, with the gorgeous afternoon sun setting through the oak trees. I love shooting here, such a photogenic backdrop to work with! The day couldn’t have been any more perfect. The stormy cold front that had moved in a few days ago passed out of our area the night before. It was a perfect 70 degree sunny day. And the cool breeze kept the mosquitoes at bay. šŸ˜‰

Their tented reception was held on the side lawn overlooking the river. It was decorated to the nines and looked like a glass palace with its clear ceilings. Plane Jane was the band, and as always, rocked the house all night long!

Besides Cami, running the remote cameras and assisting, my good friend Robbin Knight joined us to capture details and alternate angles I couldn’t get to. We all had a BLAST with Kelly & Ellis and all their family and friends who came out to help them celebrate!

CONGRATULATIONS Kelly & Ellis! May God Bless you as you journey down your new path together!!!

The Harrell Family at Boone Hall Plantation

I absolutely love it when couples that I met during their courtship reconnect with me when they start a family! šŸ™‚

I photographed Kimberly & Roger’s engagement and bridal sessions several years ago. Unfortunately I was booked and couldn’t photograph their wedding. But we really hit it off and I felt a real connection with these two.

Now years later, they have a beautiful 5 year old daughter, and an energetic almost 2 year old son. What an honor when they called and asked me to photograph their family portraits for them! It was so neat to catch up on where their lives have gone, hear about their new endeavors, and meet their adorable children!!!

Linnea & Paul at Blessed Sacrament and Charleston Marriott

A fewĀ months back, Linnea was kind enough to model for one of my Lightbending Sessions. Seeing how beautiful she was in her gown made me so excited about photographing her wedding! That special day finally arrived, as Linnea & Paul tied the knot last weekend!!! šŸ™‚

It was an absolutely picture-perfect day. Their celebration started out at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, which is one of my favorites in town. I just love the dramatic stained-glass window in the front. Linnea & Paul couldn’t stop steeling glances at each other during the homily…which I loved capturing. šŸ˜‰

Their reception was held at the picturesque Charleston Marriott Hotel, overlooking the Ashley River. I just love the architecture and decor in this place, and was able to sneak Linnea & Paul away for a few images during the reception. We even got some dramatic shots with the sunset from their balcony bar on the third floor.

I would be remiss if I didn’t thank Adam & Katie, and Justin & Ginny, for being so kind and recommending us. THANK YOU!

And a huge THANK YOU to Linnea & Paul for trusting us to capture all the fun and excitement of their Big Day. CONGRATULATIONS, you guys! May God bless you as you journey down this new path together…

Lindsay & Hannah on Folly Beach

We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day for a beach shoot!

Yesterday I met up with Lindsay and her adorable daughter, Hannah, on Folly Beach. We walked out to the gorgeous cove where Morris Island Lighthouse is located. On good days, this place is normally crawling with other photographers doing their thing. But we were practically the only people there!!! We had a great time exploring and creating tons of beautiful images together in the soft golden glow of the evening light.

THANK YOU Lindsay & Hannah for brightening my day!!! šŸ™‚

Coporate Shoot for CDM Smith

I thoroughly enjoyed working with the fine folks at CDM Smith yesterday. Everyone was very professional, yet personable. Sometimes corporate shoots can be a little stuffy. I love it when everyone is down-to-earth and fun to work with…while still maintaining a professional environment!

If your company or small business is looking to update their head-shots and marketing images, don’t hesitate to call. I’d love to work with you!

Welcome to the World, Lucy!

A new bundle of joy came into the world on October 2nd. I had the honor of meeting beautiful little Lucy earlier this week. I was so excited when Tiffany & Chris called to tell me the amazing news, and that they wanted me to photograph her newborn portraits!!! šŸ™‚ CONGRATULATIONS to you both. What a gift you’ve been given. I can tell you’re going to be the best Mommy & Daddy ever!!!

Lori & Mike at Seacoast Church and The Post House

10-11-12 was a very special date for a very special couple!

Cami & I have known Lori and her wonderful family for many years…not only on a personal level, but a professional one as well. “Dr. Lori” is the owner of Belle Hall Eye Care. As you can imagine in my profession, my eyes are very important to me. We are so lucky to have Lori taking care of our eyes.Ā  And I HIGHLY recommend them!

Imagine our excitement when Lori asked us to photograph her and Mike’s wedding! It was a beautiful, intimate ceremony at the Seacoast chapel. The service was truly Spirit led. And the love in the room was absolutely palpable!

Afterwards, everyone headed to The Post House in Old Mount Pleasant for a nice dinner reception. On the way, Mike & Lori, and their family, stopped at the Pitt Street Pier for a few photos in the beautiful sunset overlooking Charleston Bay. What a great way to end a perfect day!

CONGRATULATIONS Lori & Mike! May God Bless you as you begin this new journey together!!!

The Lewis Family at Wild Dunes on Isle of Palms

What unbelievable colors the sky displayed for us during the Lewis Family beach portrait session in Wild Dunes on Isle of Palms!!! It was so much fun getting to know everyone, coming all the way from Kentucky to spend the week together as a family. I especially enjoyed meeting Renee, who is a fabulous photographer in her own right. šŸ™‚