December Contest Winners - Riley's

If you know me, you know I do not want to do things the “normal” way. So when I have a contest it is going to be fun! For December I offered a free photo session to the person who had the worst picture to use as a Christmas card. The most votes would win them a free photo session and the opportunity to get better pictures to use. Kristy and her adorable picture won hands down! She had the most votes and it was well deserved. Poor mama tried the year before to take her own pictures and well, let’s just say they did not turn out the best. We decided to go to the town center to take these pictures. I had so much fun running around after these two kids! They were so full of life and energy. It really brought the Christmas spirit alive. Now, mom and dad were fun too, even though they did not want to be in the pictures. I probably should not mention that we took a few pictures inside the Santa house since, well….. It was not “officially” opened. Rebels for sure! Great pictures and great memories! Congratulations again to the Riley’s for winning this session. It was well deserved and a complete blast for me.

The Reddings

What an amazing time I had photographing Megan, Eric and Emma. I almost forgot what it was like to have toddler. My body remembered the next day for sure! Emma was so adorable. All she wanted to do was explore and go where ever the adults were not. She kept me full of laughs and of course , smiles. However, it was my job to try and capture hers. Toddlers are a challenge, I will admit but that is what makes my job fun. Although I think The Reddings were aiming for more structured pictures, I think we caught the best moments when they were just being themselves. I just sat back and watched them interact and play. Before I knew it Megan and Eric had Emma giggling up a storm. I had to get closer so I would not miss a moment. To see the love they have for their daughter is precious. When I look at these pictures, I remember the innocence we all once had. What a beautiful family!

David and Kim

 When David and Kim asked me to take their Christmas pictures I was so excited! Mainly because this would be my first session involving dogs. I like a good challenge so I was ready! However, the dogs were very well behaved and that left more time to focus on David and Kim. They were recently engaged. I think the excitement of the engagement carried me away and before I knew it we were taking more intimate pictures of the two of them. The sparkle they have is inspiring. It is always a joy to photograph true love. Their “Christmas” session turned out beautiful. (And no, not because I was the photographer) All I did was hold my camera and capture honest moments of love.

Congratulations Dave and Kim!

Sheila and Gabreilla

Sheila and Gabreilla

First of all, Gabriella took the shine away from the stars! This little girl did not need direction. What I needed was a faster shutter speed. I had so much fun getting pictures of her. Every time I clicked my camera, she changed her pose. It was so adorable. Sheila (mom) was prepared for this session. I mean, she had the spray bottle of water and ever thing. This whole experience is new to me but I love seeing people getting serious. Sheila was ready! And speaking of Sheila, so Bonita! Just like her sister they just capture the moment. These girls are just natural when it comes to photography. They made my job easy and fun. I adored them. I actually took pictures of Gabriella many years ago when she was a baby. I am a little worried to see them. I used a complete manual camera with black and white film. Let's just say I am happy to get some updated ones! You girls were awesome! Thank you! And thank you for not freaking out about rats and capturing a really great “behind the scenes” picture of me in action. I love it!

Anna

Anna is a beautiful woman with a soft smile. I personally think she should be doing print work. What an honor to be photographing a girl like her. I have only met her a few times but I felt like my camera had taken pictures of her for years. This girl rocked it! We chose downtown Jacksonville and I am glad we did. Anna just has a look to her and it is a look that is original. I hope to get more pictures of this young lady. She is a joy to photograph!

Ernie and Wes

Ernie and Wes

Ernie is special to me. We have been friends since 7^th grade. I guess you can say I have always been protective of him. He has a heart that will beat forever. I am so glad that we have stayed friends over the years. Even more over the past year. When I met up with Ernie and Wes, I knew I was in for it. I mean this session made me want to nap afterward! I was getting dirty on the ground and climbing on monkey bars ( literally I was standing on top of them praying I would not fall and thanking God I had aflack if I did). This was a work out. But for them, it was a regular day. Clearly they have fun where ever they are and Wes was so excited in front of the camera. He was ready for shots I before I was. I loved every minute. I felt honored to be there and to capture some pure moments of a father and son playing around. It was great to see that Ernie could be himself with is son. That is something I treasure so much with my daughter. Wes is lucky to have a dad like Ernie, and I know Ernie feels blessed to have a son like Wes.

Heatherley

Amy and Kenny

Amy and Kenny

How is this a job if I am laughing more than the couple I am photographing? How is this a job if I am laughing at all? With Kenny and Amy there was nothing but laughs! I could tell Kenny was a bit camera shy, he did not want to look directly at the camera most of the time. No worries! I was able to see the real him anyway. Amy may not realize this, but the camera LOVES her! She is so photogenic and her smile can light up a room. These two were as silly as they get. Listen people, we hit St. George Street during a crazy busy day. They were such great sports! I will be honest and say, I do not think I could have smiled in front of all the people walking by like they did. What you see is a couple, laughing and having fun. What you do not see is all the people staring and wondering if this was a couple getting engaged to be married. But what I saw was two people who are the best of friends and in love, enjoying each other like they promised.... for the rest of their lives.

Thank you Kenny and Amy for a wonderful day, and thank you for letting me capture your moments of true love.