Joan of Art Photography

New Site for me...

2010-01-08T08:43:00.003-06:00

Ok, trying desperately to create a new blog site and really struggling. The new blog site is not what I expected, so I'm currently, patiently waiting for my good friend, Phil Thornton of Phindy Studios, to finish his wizardry on a new site. Then, I'll be good to go. Until then, friend me on Facebook and see what's up!

Mulia! The Wedding

2009-09-21T19:38:00.024-05:00

Matt caught a flight from West Point to Washington state to ask Julia's dad for his blessing when he asked for her hand in marriage. (Swoon here) Julia's dad is no push-over either, this is his baby girl, even if she is a West Point grad also. What a wonderful match and a beautiful couple.
Statuesque, beautifully self assured, Julia planned her wedding from Afghanistan over the course of a year. She and Matt were there at the same time and even spent some time together there in the service of our country.

So very Grace Kelly, very regal.

Sis and Dad getting excited about the main event. The wedding was held in Rhode Island, Matt's hometown. It is a picture perfect piece of our country.

Mom Carol and her girls

There is still a working carousel at Cresent Beach, great prop!

The day after treat was a trip to Block Island to Matt's grandparents' home. Again, picture postcard perfect.

Thanks so much for sharing your wedding weekend with us, it was absolutely wonderful.

Here's the show: Mulia

Jennifer and Charles, everlasting love

2009-07-01T18:52:00.009-05:00

Together for 8 years already, 'dating' since middle school, Jennifer and Charles organized a seamless wedding day. (With help from both families of course!) They were relaxed and excited all at the same time. And neither one could stop smiling. Charles made sure we had plenty of time before the ceremony for photos downtown and their 'first look' was just as cute as could be. What a gorgeous bride!

Charles has the most marvelous expressions. He is so very animated.

We took gobs of pictures downtown, even though it was hot as blue blazes. My mother used to say that.
Terry was stationed in the choir balcony for the perfect view. First Baptist Church is wonderfully lighted.
The maid of honor's mother made the dresses for the girls and each one selected her own style of dress. The one in the over-the-top bow is the maid of honor. Love it! This group was such fun. They were a joy to be around.

I have no worries about this union and we were so honored to share their day. Thanks guys! Here's their wedding slideshow: Van Dyke

Holly + Matthew = Funtime!

2009-06-17T21:02:00.005-05:00

The Routledge girls were lookin' good for the wedding day! No cat fights here. Matthew and Holly are all about having a good time with good friends. They were a fabulous group to work with at a very attractive venue.
Holly's niece served as flower girl. Just look at those big blue peek-a-boos!
Holly was a gorgeous, gracious bride. Very, very sweet.And a woman of many expressions.

The wedding was flawless, the honeymoon, not so much.
Holly reported that Matthew had to make a trip to the emergency room, near Jackson Hole, after he got something in his eye while changing a tire on their rental car. Oh well, it makes a great story. I know this couple will have many more years of great stories, maybe the rest of them won't be so dramatic! Here's their wedding day slideshow: Bucy

Martha and Will's Excellent Wedding

2009-05-15T23:53:00.009-05:00

Martha and Will's wedding was definitely all about family. This fun-loving crowd had a great big 'ole party and family reunion. It was intimate and lavish all at the same time. From Martha's grandfather performing the ceremony, to sisters, brothers and cousins completing the wedding party, it was really a sa-weet wedding day.

The printed work for the event was lovely, provided by Invitation Creations By Jennifer.

Madison Street Methodist was a beautiful backdrop for a beautiful couple.

Will's men were gearing up for a par-tay after several hours of good behavior.

There was a comment of Facebook that these girls looked like a Crest commercial. They were gorgeous.

...So were the fellas.

Love, love, love these families.

Martha's grandfather preparing for the ceremony.

Who doesn't love a trolley ride?

The 12 piece band preforming at the reception was the Tyrone Smith Revue. They entertained at Jenna Bush's wedding this past year.Super T got everyone up on the dance floor to 'Work that Body'.

Floral arrangements were provided by Floral Expressions and they were soooo very nice.

Here is the show for Martha and Will's wedding: Mr & Mrs Runkle

Jennifer & Charles, Ready to take on the World

2009-04-26T21:30:00.005-05:00

These two have been together for eight years and attended many church camps together. It was fate and their faith that brought them together. They couldn't be more perfect for each other.

Charles is already employed with in the music industry in Nashville and Jennifer will join the working world soon when she graduates from Samford. I know there are great things in store for this sweet, loving couple. Charles suggested Centennial Park for the engagement shoot, as he knows it is one of Jennifer's favorite places. They told of one visit to 'feed' the geese and being completely covered in fowl in short order. So, no bread today!

I joked with both Jennifer and Charles that I was going to send their parents a thank you note for making them so comfortable in front of the camera. They said these photo sessions had been going on for many years.

Jennifer will be a June bride, not far from now. There are more images of the two:

Jennifer and Charles.

Leah, baby of many faces

2009-04-15T21:20:00.004-05:00

Miss Leah is so expressive. She makes the most wonderful faces! At eight months, she is nothing but pure fun. Her mom and dad are all about the great outdoors, so naturally we did the shoot on a farm with spring blooms all around.

Leah's peeps know a gazillion ways to make her laugh. She's a very happy baby.

The rocker is a family heirloom and Leah treats it with respect!

Here's the 'peep pie' girl. Thanks for a nice day in the country baby girl.

My buddy Matthew and his girl Holly

2009-03-08T00:25:00.004-06:00

Matthew and I go back to 8th grade. His 8th grade, not mine. He and his best bud Mason became friends with my Jordan and her friends when we were rezoned for middle school...very traumatic for my daughter, until she made these fun new friends. Matthew would hang out of my car window and yell at the other cars while I was driving them around. I had to banish him to the back seat at one point. Now, how could I not love this child? His fiance Holly has whipped him into shape though and they are ready for the grown up world. She is a real sweetheart and a beautiful young lady.

They are just the cutest couple, the wedding is in May!

Here's their slideshow: Holly & Matthew

Anna and Bradley, not just pretty faces

2009-02-14T21:24:00.004-06:00

These two are good to know, a doctor AND a nurse teamed up for a beautiful marriage. While the very talented Jessica Wright has the honor of photographing their wedding day, I got to take the engagement snaps. What a fun date! Cute, cute, cute... I fell in love with Anna's smile. It's easy, it's quick and it's warm. And, while Bradley said she'd have to carry the photo shoot with her beauty, he was just as fabulous in front of the camera.

Just look how that smile shines!

Thanks for a great shoot guys! Here's a slideshow of the fab couple: Anna & Bradley

Martha & Will Chillin'

2009-02-06T23:36:00.002-06:00

Just kidding, we weren't chillin', we were freezing! Martha and Will were here in Martha's hometown for a short time and I needed engagement photos, so they indulged me for a bit on a bitterly cold Saturday. You can barely see the hypothermia. They are such a sweet, considerate couple. Will let Martha know every time her nose was running! They really are too cute together, seriously, and it'll be much warmer for the wedding in May.

I'm lovin' this ring, too.

I love Betty's Antique shop on Franklin Street. They have such fun stuff. We stopped in to get warm and shoot a bit there, too.
Here's their slideshow: Martha & Will

Bride's Boutique Shoot

2009-01-10T14:53:00.003-06:00

OH.MY.WORD. I just remembered to stalk The Brides Boutique site! Carly gave me the honor of photographing for her web site update recently and I had not remembered to look since she went live: The New Site. These girls were so cool to work with and this old homeplace in Adams is just gorgeous. It was a dream shoot for me. Thanks Carly and Edith! See you at the Clarksville Hopkinsville Bridal Show tomorrow.

Erin & Jon Cheesin' It

2009-01-05T21:11:00.003-06:00

These two love to play. I never could get a 'serious' face from Jon. They enjoy entertaining each other and are totally relaxed together. We shot a few images around downtown Clarksville a couple of weeks back.

Here's our Album Cover shot, very camera unaware.

The wedding is in May at A Country Chapel out in the farmlands of Adams. I know it will be a sweet one, just like these two: Erin & Jon

Bethany and Cecil Ringing in the New Year

2009-01-04T19:44:00.007-06:00

There was a contest on Bethany and Cecil's wedding window site for the honor of ring-bearer duty. It was between Coco and Chase. I voted for the cat. Unfortunately, just kidding, neither got to make the trip to Tennessee to tote the rings down the aisle, they had to wait back home in Houston. Coco made the photo session at one of Houston's fab downtown parks, though.

Houston is so vast, they have all sorts of parks and zoos and museums, not to mention gobs of hospitals and colleges. Bethany and Cecil treated us to a stay at the Hotel ZaZa where their New Year's pre-ception was held before the wedding of January 3rd back home.

Cecil is finishing his residency in the area hospitals and we hope to claim him as a Tennessean when he gets finished. I think his mom was hoping he'd come back to Louisiana, but I know Bethany's family will be thrilled to have them closer.
Is this not the cutest little mini-wedding gown you've ever seen? The wedding day gown was just so chic too, I'll post those images soon.

They are just so very sweet together and so comfortable to be around. We really had a fabulous time spending New Year's with their friends.

Happy New Year!

And Happy New Life together. Here's their slideshow: Bethany & Cecil

Cala & Chase, a perfect match

2008-12-21T17:45:00.008-06:00

These two are so sweet and funny together. Cala will graduate shortly and start her career in the field of nursing and Chase will be continuing his education at Vanderbilt for a bit, then it's on to rule the world!

The church had an air hockey table for a prop, but after we started, Cala is so competitive, we had to finish the game. Not sure who won the game, but they both won with a choice of mate.

Cala's red dress accents were so pretty with the holiday season approaching.

Sango Village Florist provided classic red roses, beautifully done.

First Baptist Church, ever expanding, made a nice backdrop for the group.

Many of the attendants are members of a band with Chase. They really are all just too talented. Chase even played at a few little tunes on a spare piano during our couple session.

Just a little windy on this cold, overcast day, but it made for some lovely flowing veil movement.

This die-hard crowd out partied us. This was our final shot before hitting the door and they showed no signs of slowing down.

OK, one last shout out.

Clarksville Hopkinsville Brides.com

2008-12-09T21:24:00.004-06:00

Well, there's three of the photographers hogging the front row. Dana of Mugshots (ballcap) snuck to the back. Clarksville Hopkinsville Brides vendor group gathered at Yvonne Chamberlain's studio for a quarterly meeting and a photo session broke out. Go figure. I keep wanting to 'tag' everybody in the shot, instead of listing names.
Cozette Winters is in front with me and Yvonne. Fellow vendors include: Limo 4 U,
Allen's Fireworks, Jubliee Plantation Catering, Rockelle Coffey of I Do Bridal Make Up, and our fearless leaders of Turning Point Productions, Beth Cullison and Danielle Jacquot. We also had a visitor from Down South Delights catering. She is Rita Rowland and is the owner and executive chef.
It's a good group and it's always fun to share inspirational stories, horror tales and learn from each other.

Brittany, Dannie and the great outdoors

2008-11-25T21:12:00.006-06:00

Brittany booked Cheekwood Gardens for her bridal session a couple of months back. She chose a very lovely dotted swiss gown that was great fun for an outdoor wedding.

It was a tad on the chilly side on the wedding day and a jacket was in order, but the lighting was superb.

I really adore fall wedding colors. Brittany's flowers were outstanding in varied hues of orange. Sango Village Florist did a bang-up job again.

A happy, relaxed wedding party makes our job so easy. "Now, walk, talk and act happy" They were great! Dannie built the wedding arbor (pergola?) in the background. He's a man of many talents.

No bridezillas here, these girls were just as sweet as they look.

And, having your parents own a fireworks business always comes in handy for a reception show. Allen's Fireworks was a special treat.

I just really like Brittany's mom, too. They wouldn't let me include any of the funny faces they made at each other, so here's a nice one.
The stunning cakes were created with loving care by Lorri Vogel of Chapel Cakes. She is truly an artist.

Better Together, the Coleman Family

2008-11-17T19:33:00.003-06:00

I love little boys. I thought I wanted one of my own until I tried to take pictures of them. They are a breed all their own. While this beautiful little girl was content to let me take all the snaps I wanted, her cousin was anything but still. He is so full of life though, it was hard to fault him. I just kept up as best I could. They are both adorable.

...so stinkin' cute.

Here is the family slideshow: Coleman

Just a Good Joe

2008-11-07T19:46:00.003-06:00

What a super nice guy. I've heard Joe Buissink speak on several occasions, but never up close and personal. Our PUG (Pictage Users Group) won a contest with Pictage for a visit from Joe and he delivered last night with an inspired sharing of his thoughts and images. Not only has Joe recorded some of the biggest Hollywood weddings, but he is a great humanitarian. He commands some nice fees for his work, but he is just as likely to forgo big bucks for a cause he feels drawn to. He also has a very low key wit and can weave a tale with a whisper.

Mindy and Phil Thorton grabbed a shot with Joe also, before dinner with the whole gang...which I rarely get to attend because of the darn day job and my beauty sleep!

Gran's little tricksters

2008-11-01T11:07:00.002-05:00

My nieces do a much better job with Halloween costumes than I ever did. My sister's grandchildren were so cute for their trick-or-treating visit. Baylee, the only girl (so far) is just too sweet for words in her bee outfit. My sister and her Jack are also very good about decorating in theme for the holidays. So glad someone does it! She gave me a nice fall wreath for my front door and it was all I could do to get it hung!

I can't remember the song Ashlee was singing for Baylee to make this hand motion, but she's just so stinkin' cute whatever she does.Four of the first cousins. Jenna Leigh got in the spirit for the day.

Jordan let me wear her horns and took this picture for me.Happy Halloween!

Cala & Chase and those three little words

2008-10-17T23:54:00.003-05:00

Cala said those three little words every photographer loves to hear: 'I'll do anything'. So, after some lovely, face forward, grin at the birdie shots in the studio, we went to the creek and then on to the Beer Box. Chase conducted a mini-tutorial on rock skipping and Cala held her own at pool.

I'm really liking the fall colors and Cala said Chase picked out their outfits to match the season. Very nice. They have a December wedding planned, so I'll have to get a move on with their photo editing. I just love these two.

Lee & Lindsay Lookin' Good

2008-10-13T14:29:00.003-05:00

There's just no telling how much pain Lee was in during his wedding. He hobbled around on his boot all day, trying to protect his Achilles from further damage, and never complained once. Lindsay picked at him just a little, saying she didn't know why he had to try exercising, playing basketball, just a few weeks shy of their wedding! Of course, I didn't mind, 'cause I never had to tell him to slow down for pictures and Lindsay never ran off and left him.

They had such a great group to work with, too. We drug them out in the hot sun, it was a beautiful day, and they really worked it for the cameras.

Just a sweet, sweet beautiful bride, inside and out.

Emily & Jason Make Fireworks

2008-10-09T21:29:00.005-05:00

Tears, lots of happy tears, laughs and fireworks. Emily and Jason were wed in hot style as the golden glow of the setting sun washed the scene. A huge fan of outdoor weddings, I really enjoyed all this natural lighting and high emotion at Jason's family home, the venue for their wedding day.

Emily's mom and dad were all smiles, all day. The leis they presented to each other are a nod to Jason's Hawaiian heritage and a nice touch.
The colors Emily chose were earthy and fall feeling; just right with the nip in the air after the sun set.

Apparently, Jason is a big fan of fireworks, as I heard someone say this was the first time he wasn't taking care of the lighting.
Terry and I just really felt at home and well cared for from the moment we got there. Thanks guys. We wish you the best of everything.

Wedding Book Designed

2008-10-03T20:14:00.004-05:00

I completed Jordan and Michael's wedding book in record time as I need it to show at the Best of Clarksville March of Dimes fund raiser next week. These are three of the images included and the complete book is on the slideshow here: Evans Rye Wedding

This is my image from Jordan's bridal session at Smith Trahern Mansion.

This one of Mikey was taken by Shea Halliburton.

I thought it was too cute and he is such a sport.

And this nice image of the ceremony was taken by Beth Waynick from her post in the balcony.

I just love it.

Love Lee & Lindsay

2008-09-30T22:17:00.005-05:00

OK, now there's polite and then there's just too polite.

We had dinner with Lee and Lindsay tonight at Chili's (one of my favorites) and as we were chatting after our meal and my dessert...I know, I'm a sucker for chocolate, Lindsay casually mentions that I PUT THE WRONG NAME ON HER CD! The label says Lindsay and SAM! My last two grooms were Sams, so I made Lee one, too! So, of course, I'm dying and apologizing and they're all laughing at what an idiot I am.

I know it just killed Lindsay to say anything because she is so sweet. But, now, really that's just too polite. At least it's easily corrected and they get to keep the first CD to remind me of my faux pas.

Here are some of the images from the engagement session of LEE and Lindsay.

And here's the link to their slideshow of images: Lee & Lindsay

Sweet Porter

2008-09-14T01:09:00.003-05:00

I did some creek photos recently with a very sweet little boy. Porter loved the water and was completely soaked in no time. He can't quite walk yet, but let me tell you, that boy can get anywhere he wants to go!I've been playing around with some textures and LightRoom presets also. Great fun and very addicting to alter images so easily.

Ooooh, I was a thumb sucker, too. I think it's so cute.

Bethany and Cecil

2008-09-14T00:58:00.003-05:00

Well, as long as I'm up all night anyway, I might as well blog too!
Pictage, my lab, is now partnered with weddingwindow and I offered a hosted site to my new year's bride Bethany and her future husband Cecil. They did a bang up job with their design. Check it out here: Bethany and Cecil. They're in Houston, so I don't have any engagement photos to post, but they have a ton of themselves in the 'photo album' section. It's really a great way to keep their friends up-to-date. I was really hoping to hear from them after hurricane Ike blew through.
They are to be married in January in Dover, TN after a 'pre'-ception in Houston on New Year's Eve. I can hardly wait! I hope the area in still intact.

Clarksville Brides Bridal Show

2008-08-11T23:26:00.007-05:00

Terry and I enjoyed a Sunday afternoon talking to future brides at the Clarksville Bridal Show yesterday. They are always so excited and enthused about their upcoming weddings, it's contagious!This is my Jordan in her gown and veil from Bride's Boutique.This is Lorri Vogel's fabulous creation for the cake dive. It's always so sad to see it torn to pieces. Kat Coffen of Selah Style presented the gown fashion show for a nice sized audience. It's always the hit of the event.

My buddy Beth of Turning Point Productions hosted the Show with Lorri Vogel of A Country Chapel and Kat Coffen of Selah Style.
I missed Lorri, but I got her husband Bob chatting with one of my grooms, Mark. He and his lovely wife Kassidy were married at A Country Chapel and it was beautiful.
And here is my sweetheart manning our booth so I could stroll and take pictures.
And this little cutie is getting a head start on her honeymoon planning!

Here's my slideshow of the event:

Bridal Show August 08

Shelley and Sam Hot Fun

2008-07-31T19:36:00.004-05:00

It was so hot the day we took Shelley and Sam's engagement photos, we really cut the outdoor images to a minimum. And you know how I love outdoor shots, so I'm hoping for cooler weather on the wedding day. Since it's only 2 weeks away, I guess I may have to resign myself to indoor shooting. Pooh.

They are such a cute couple, I know the wedding will be sweet. Here are a few more from the e-session: Shelley & Sam

Natalie and LeBaron together at last

2008-07-31T16:09:00.002-05:00

Natalie and LeBaron have been separated by several states while Natalie finished school, but that will change soon. The wedding is this weekend! Our engagement shoot was a little wet, but Natalie's red shoes brightened my day. You gotta love fun colors and and bright smiles.

Just too cute. Here's a show of the two: Natalie & LeBaron

Paloma and Fans

2008-07-30T20:08:00.003-05:00

This is the reason I do what I do: family and relationships.

A few years back, Paloma called for a 'head shot' (I really dislike that term, but you know what I mean) for a pageant. She is a beauty, so no real work there on my part. So, when she wanted family photos she called again. This family is so great to work with, we had a wonderful outing at the creek. Paloma's grandparents are from Puerto Rico and speak little English, or maybe just not to me, but their smiles and laughs said everything. Here's their slideshow: Paloma and Fans

My Jordan and Mikey

2008-07-27T01:04:00.010-05:00

I'll have to blog about my baby before I explode. We had such a fabulous wedding, from start to finish, showing off the best vendors ever. My first born was beautiful and glowing, my new son-in-law was extremely handsome and the easy going sweetheart he always is.Jordan carried stunning Calla lilies from Sango Village Florist, thanks Courtney!Michael's and the grooms men's tux came from Bride's Boutique, as did Jordan's gown and the bridesmaids' dresses. The wedding was held at Madison Street Methodist Church, lovingly rebuilt after tornado damage several years ago. We tested the capacity of the facility by loading the balcony also; we had quite a crowd. It was really nice to see everyone. Since it was Vacation Bible School time, we thought we'd get into the spirit of the theme.

Jordan and Michael's family members and friends were most accommodating at photo time, even though is was rather toasty out.The too cute girls; Courtney, Julianne, Emily, Jenna, Jessica and Mary. They carried hot pink Callas from Sango Village Florist. This is Michael's posse: Jake, Leonard, Scott, Wade, Greg, and Cliff. Just a great, fun bunch.

Len and Melessa and their baby boy.

The BFF's.

Nicole and Chelsey worked it in the guest registry and program area.

Me and my sweet girls. Julianne was maid of honor for her big sis. Me and the best beau ever! It was tough for us being on the other side of the camera.
My niece Jill and her son Trey, the cutest ring bearer EVER! My nephew Anthony and the cutest flower girl EVER, Baylee. She took a little nap during the wedding, but she sure did look good doing it.

Here's Jordan's Mad Hatter cake. Lorri Vogel of Chapel Cakes did a bang up job on it. We polished it off the next day at mother's family reunion. It was too wonderful!

The groom's chocolate cake had nothing left of it to go home! It was just great. Lorri outdid herself.

Gorgeous Callas.

Shea Halliburton of ByShea Photography gets a hug from her cousin Sammy at the after Par-Tay at the Cumberland Room. That's Sammy's wife Brandy on the right, and I believe that's Stewart heading back to the dance floor from behind them. Melessa with friends and family. Sammy pointed out she is one hot woman!
Some more vendors, all of whom are just the greatest: Beth Shaffer Waynick of Bird's Eye Photography, The gang at KD Catering, minus Karey the ring leader, Mike Robinson and his band, and the girls of Eden Day Spa and Salon. AND, Turning Point Productions, who is so good at staying out of the way and in the background, I don't have a photo from this wedding, but I'll have one from the next. Beth Cullison has filmed the last 3 weddings with us for our Multi-Media aftershow. They are fantastic to work with. Here's their show for Jordan and Michael: Rye.

Coming Soon: Candice and Marquis

2008-07-06T00:26:00.004-05:00

My gurl Candice is too much fun and Marquis plays right along with her. They giggled and snuggled and nuzzled 'til it was time to eat and go home. We started shooting in Clarksville and continued throughout Nashville.

Their wedding is coming up in a couple of weeks and I know it'll be great fun, just like they are.

Both Candice and Marquis are in service to our country, stationed at Ft Campbell. Check out Candice's well conditioned legs(!) in their show: Candice and Marquis

Ah... the school teacher and the police officer

2008-07-03T20:15:00.004-05:00

I almost always take some studio portraits of my couples, along with tons of cityscapes or whatever suits them, but I rarely post them. The studio photos are usually 'ice breaker' images and shots that moms like. But Emily and Jason didn't need any warm up photos, they were happy and at ease from the get go and even their studio photos show it.

We wandered downtown Clarksville and they let me take photos to my heart's content. See just how cute they are on their slideshow: Emily & Jason

Girls Gone Wild

2008-06-26T07:41:00.003-05:00

'Just over the Kentucky line' is how Sarah described our trip to her nieces' photo session. It's actually a little piece of heaven on earth. Sarah's friend Susan shared her homestead with us for an afternoon of country discovery and shooting. Susan brought the horses around for a good petting before she exercised them for a bit. We also found snake skins and baby birds. I think the girls enjoyed it, I know I did.

slide show time: Ava and Halie's Fan Club

Waiting patiently, Sarah and Trent

2008-06-14T23:59:00.004-05:00

It's midnight as I sit here at the computer asleep. And I really do enjoy this or I wouldn't stay up all night working on it.
Trent was razzing me a bit, during our photo shoot, about my blog postings and how I always said my couples are so sweet or so fun or so whatever. He puts me in mind of my cousin Rob (and a little bit of my brother too), as he has a very serious demeanor and a sharp, dry wit.
But, the thing is, I really do like being around people, meeting new people, and just yakking about anything and everything. I liked getting to know Trent and Sarah (who really are sweet and fun and cute and a bunch of other adjectives) and Sarah's brother's family (whose photos I'll post shortly).
Trent and Sarah have been married 10 years and are expecting their first child within a month. They still act like newlyweds and let me just say that is going to be one lucky baby.

We toured the Nashville area for our shoot: Centennial Park and the Bi-Centennial Mall. And while Sarah is still in much better shape than I am, I think she had had enough after a couple of hours in the heat.

I fixed up a little slideshow here: Almost Time

The Sunny Sunday Wedding

2008-06-11T07:45:00.004-05:00

Kassidy and Mark were both glowing all day Sunday. I never saw Kassidy without a smile on her pretty face. The wedding was outside at Lorri and Bob Vogel's A Country Chapel in Adams, TN and a lovely breeze kept the soaring temperatures in check. Of course, there are many editing hours ahead from this sweet wedding day, but I wanted to post a few right away.

Part of the Posse.
Kassidy with her sister Jordan
The wonderful bride and her sister Janelle.
The absolutely gorgeous flowers are from Helen's Flowers of Guthrie.

I just really enjoy a country setting...so many ways to shoot with few obstructions and very little traffic. It was just extremely pleasant, romantic, and stress-free from start to finish.

Love this family... Danielle and Marshall

2008-05-28T20:10:00.003-05:00

Marshall and Danielle are just too stinkin' cute together. Danielle's family is Turning Point Productions and she is VP...video princess. Great fun. Marshall is in service to our country and was home just long enough for some together time and great photos. He is also new best friend to Danielle's parents...he left his Wii with them and now they're addicted!

The wedding is the next time Marshall has some leave and is destined for Hawaii. We told them we travel...
Take a look at their slideshow. They picked the music and I love it.

Kassidy & Mark out in the country

2008-05-17T19:36:00.003-05:00

Kassidy and Mark live truly in God's Country. This sweet couple is ensconced on the property of Youth With A Mission (YWAM) in Adams, TN...really, really beautiful countryside. They have chosen A Country Chapel and Lorri Vogel's very delicious catering and for their June wedding.

We spent a couple hours on the YWAM property and in downtown Adams for their e-session. You have to love a town where the dogs travel along side the cars from one home to another. I had two dogs like that for a good while. They left the house in the morning when I went to work and spent the day with my dad just down the road. He always had a slice of bologna (or baloney where I come from) for them. But I digress...
Mark really likes the small town life, but Kassidy is ready to spread the good Word to bigger cities and other countries. They'll do fine.

Kassidy and Mark: the slideshow

Ashley's Par-Tay

2008-05-16T14:34:00.003-05:00

Ashley, Ashley's Bride Guide of Nashville, is hosting a party with a viewing of the new Sex and the City movie and tons of vendor samplings. How fun is that? Ashley was the guest speaker at our Clarksville Brides meeting earlier this week and she is one 'in tune' woman. Check her blog for details and sign up! The fun is scheduled for May 30.
....Ashley also gave props to our good friends at Dove Wedding Photography in her post the day before. Nice, nice work there.

So Fun, So Sweet: Dannie and Brittany

2008-05-08T18:45:00.003-05:00

Dannie and Brittany had a fun filled e-session in Nashville, touring Centennial Park, Vanderbilt University (Dannie's Alma mater), the Bi-Centennial Mall and the Village Cleaners. Yep, Village Cleaners...it was a first kiss thing. Love the sentiment.

Oooh, also trying a new logo. I like dragonflies, doesn't everyone?
Anyway... Brittany and Dannie are planning an October wedding on the family farm and there will be fireworks! Woo hoo.
Here's the slideshow: Brannie

Seriously...just like herding cats

2008-04-28T20:31:00.002-05:00

My great-nephew and his soccer team missed photo day at the soccer field, so I did a make-up shoot for them. They are really too cute for words, but every time I try to work with kids I remember why I never used my teaching certification! I am just not very good at explaining what I need in the fashion of a pose, I guess....'no, your OTHER left knee'.

Michelle & Bobby singing in the rain

2008-04-11T07:49:00.003-05:00

Here are Michelle and Bobby with their 'evil twins' on downtown Franklin Street. What a sweet, sweet pair. We did a nice e-session in a drizzle recently.

Their wedding is coming soon. Glad everything's in bloom after all that rain. Here's a little slideshow of the shoot: Michelle and Bobby

Caryn & Andrew (part III)

2008-04-07T19:29:00.004-05:00

Caryn made a very lovely, very regal bride. I can't wait to get the wedding editing finished and work on their multi-media show with Turning Point Productions. Multi-Media here: Givens The wedding was March 8th, just after our most fabulous snow of the year. The bride's family home is on the river with an expansive view, so the fluffy white stuff was all around while the girls were getting prepped for the nuptials.
I heard no complaints about being too hot during outdoor photos, and the sun shown beautifully.

OK, I'd best get busy editing.

Saturday at Soccer and the hat parade

2008-03-23T18:44:00.006-05:00

My great nephew is playing his first season of soccer, that's Trey, the red head on the left. Tyler is kicking the ball, but the part I really like is Tyler's mom in the back ground 'helping' him with the kick. The soccer field is out on the northwest side of town and for some reason is always 30 degrees colder than anywhere else in town. I think it's because there are no trees to break the wind, maybe. So, we bundled up.
Here's my Juli and Trey after the game, all smiles and ready to go home. And Trey and his mom Jill. And the hat parade...here's Trey granddad with an interesting head warmer.
And I loved this hat from the movie Cars on this cute little fellow.
Oh yes, my mother had on her 'walking cap' that never fails to embarrass the grandchildren.

And here's my personal favorite. I have no idea what the design is, I just like the colors.

Sam & Melody's Snow day

2008-03-10T21:24:00.002-05:00

I told Melody how jealous I was of the Colorado photographers who always get to shoot great snow engagement sessions. So, when we got some nice 'accumulation' recently, she obliged me with a cold, wet shoot with her best bud, Sam. Their wedding is scheduled for July when it'll be MUCH warmer.

Ooops, a snow angel gone bad!
Monkey bar time...let me help you up.

That's some good lookin' snow for Clarksville. Thanks, guys!

Showtime for Stacey and Adam

2008-03-10T20:48:00.005-05:00

Ooohhhh...I have a teaser ready from Stacey and Adam's wedding.

> click here<

Too fun!

Jacob

2008-03-03T13:41:00.005-06:00

I met a very handsome young man last week.
Jacob is such a charmer. He is 7 months old and has a wonderful little smile.

Jacob was a sheer pleasure to be around.
Thanks for sharing him with me for a bit. Here's more of the little lady's man: Jacob

Bubble Bath Exit

2008-02-28T20:19:00.004-06:00

OK, I know I'm being a bad girl, but I just had to post one more picture of Stacey and Adam's wedding. Stacey took a tumble as she was making her get-away with Adam to the reception. In true Miss USA form, she hopped right back up and smiled her way to the car.

Stacey & Adam on the Town

2008-02-26T22:48:00.002-06:00

Saturday's wedding was just way too much fun! Stacey and Adam are so crazy about each other and such a hoot to be around! And up for anything where pictures were concerned.
Stacy was a little iffy on the pool game by the end of the reception, but Adam assured us she was really very skilled at the game.

There was no coaxing needed for these smiles and smooches. These two are very happy and comfortable together.

With family members traveling from New Jersey and Florida, it was a very small group, so we felt like guests also. Just guests with big cameras! I can't wait to finish editing all the photos and get them online.

Caryn is gearing up

2008-02-24T21:10:00.002-06:00

It's tough showing images from a bridal session without giving a peek at the dress. Here's a teaser, though, of Caryn on location at Belmont Mansion in Nashville. I can TELL you though, the dress is fabulous and very Caryn. I adore grandmother's pearls being used in a wedding. Just a little rework of the clasp and they're ready for show. Beautiful!
Caryn's mother Margaret attended to the bride with great care and a good eye for detail. What a wonderful MOB (photographer speak for Mother Of the Bride)!
I don't know why, but I like 'mussed' hair pictures.

A Country Chapel Photo Session

2008-02-12T21:40:00.007-06:00

Model Michelle of Brides Boutique poses for me in front of A Country Chapel in Adams, TN.

Beth Cullison of Turning Point Productions is the driving force behind Clarksville Brides.com. She recently coordinated a photo shoot to feature several vendors for the site and allowed me the honor of taking the pictures. This is Rockelle Coffey, makeup artist, preparing Michelle for our shoot. Rockelle's work is amazing. She made Michelle even prettier!The Chapel is in a wonderfully secluded area where we can shoot for hours in the middle of the road. Lorri Vogel runs an excellent operation and I always enjoy my events here. She also makes fabulous wedding cakes and will be creating one for my daughter's wedding in July. I am so glad Lorri and the Chapel 'found' each other. The church no longer had a congregation and was in danger of falling into ruin when Lorri discovered it. She and her husband have made it a show place.

Now that is one beautiful bride. Michelle is planning her wedding for later this summer.

She and her mother Edith Cox are doing a bang up job with the Bride's Boutique, providing many of the dresses for my most recent weddings and for my daughter's.And here are the three muskateers; Edith, Beth and Lorri. What a great group to work with.

Unconditional Love

2008-02-02T17:58:00.000-06:00

We all want it.
To be loved unconditionally is the greatest thing. And that's what a puppy will do for you.
I read a quote somewhere that said something like 'Aspire to be the person your dog thinks you are'. I Thought that was funny.
After going as long as I ever have without a dog, about a year now, Terry bought us a sweet little black lab puppy. Jack is eight weeks old and full of life. He is the only canine among our 5 cats.

Oh Wow! Trash the Dress multi media session

2008-01-31T14:39:00.000-06:00

I may have missed the memo, but I just found the Trash the Dress session multi-media footage Peter Carlson posted. I had seen it at our monthly PUG meeting, but didn't realize it was online for viewing by the masses. I just love it.

If you've got a minute, it's fairly entertaining: TTD

Joan of Art is now offering the multi-media DVD package (like the TTD footage) as an add-on with our weddings. Turning Point Productions has partnered with us for this video/still wedding day story brought to life.

Rob Witzel, a fellow Pictage member, has an example on his site, as well.

Photo Guest Registry

2008-01-27T20:08:00.000-06:00

I was so tickled to design a photo guest registry for Caryn and Andrew from their engagement session pictures.This is the cover. And here are a couple of the pages.
Terry and I really enjoyed our Knoxville shoot with this wonderful couple. It's a great place for photos, too!
The guest books are an add-on with our wedding packages. I use Asukabooks to print and bind them and they always do such a good job. I just love the books.

Ashley's Bride Guide

2008-01-19T14:04:00.000-06:00

Hey! A BIG shout-out to Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide of Nashville. She gave us props on the 'daily scoop' section of her web site. She's also hosting a movie night out for some lucky brides. Looks like fun!

Bridal Show Fun

2008-01-15T20:21:00.000-06:00

Our friends Beth Cullison and Lorri Vogel were EVERYWHERE Sunday during the Clarksville Bridal Show. These hard working women did a fabulous job with the winter version of the show.This is Lorri with her cake that is about to be trashed in a cake dive. There is a lovely piece of jewelry lovingly baked in, and three lucky brides, and one groom, won the chance to tear it apart for the prize. I loved watching the dancers from Lana's Dance Center. It was a great addition to the show and I am a huge fan of choreographed 'first' dances. I really liked Beth's new marketing piece, too. The huge cork made me envision a very large glass of wine!

The Bride's Boutique always has such good looking models and stylish gowns. And this bride was so sweet and funny! Her name is Candice Bostic and she was so excited to win the drawing for a trip to Whitestone. She's giving a big hug to the Leaf-Chronicle rep here.Of course Terry and I had a booth, but I got really lazy and didn't put as much effort in to it as I should have. Maybe next time... I really like the look of my friend Whitney Carlson's booth at the Nashville Bridal Show. Maybe I'll get her to hook me up next time!
I also visited with Yvonne Chamberlain and her co-worker. She is really enjoying her work and is thinking of going to Vegas for the WPPI conference. I love that gathering of photographers and the tradeshow is overwhelming. We're going!
Of course, you knew there was going to be a slideshow.

A Book for Courtney and Eric

2008-01-12T14:14:00.000-06:00

Yay! I finished an AsukaBook for Courtney and Eric! Because the coffee table book is completely designed by me in Photoshop, it can be a fairly daunting undertaking. Here is the cover:and a couple of pages
and you can see the rest on the slideshow: Kimsey Wedding Book

Jo Dee and Nathan

2008-01-05T22:04:00.001-06:00

Jo Dee is a bride who became a friend. She is so bubbly and fun, I love hearing from her. She and Nathan had a very sweet wedding in the summer of '06 and I thought I'd revisit the day with a slideshow for them. These are a few of my favorite images from the day. I thought Nathan's cake was neat.

The sparklers made all kinds of smoke, so the two made off to their honeymoon on a cloud.

Terry's 51st Birthday SURPRISE!

2007-12-30T21:58:00.000-06:00

We had a great crowd for Terry's 51st birthday at Blackhorse Pub and Brewery AND I managed to keep it a surprise.
Betty Lou dressed up and jumped out of a cake for the occasion...too funny!

Although, he claims to be anti-social, Terry said he really enjoyed the party after the initial shock. So, I'm not in any real trouble and we had a great evening with friends. Check it here.

Katherine & Joe

2007-12-30T00:46:00.000-06:00

Great, great, great images of Katherine and Joe! We had a big time with our engagement session downtown, during unseasonably warm weather in December. Joe and Katherine are planning a spring wedding that is sure to be big fun.

Joe picked the music for the slideshow and I think it is very sweet.

Christmas at Terry's

2007-12-25T21:22:00.000-06:00

My Terry made Christmas Eve breakfast for all who could get up and come feast. His sister Jackie is in the pretty blue ensemble and her daughter Brandie is at her shoulder. Brandie rolled out to take Jackie to her radiation session and then they came up from Nashville. That's Terry's Sam hugging all over him and my sister Joy at the back. Mom, Jordan and Julianne had a wonderful country ham, bacon, sausage and biscuit, also. I just realized I'm not in any pictures... I was too lazy to get the tripod!

The slideshow is here: Terry's at Christmas
It was so great to see Jackie and Brandie. Thanks for doing the driving girls!

Special People

2007-12-24T12:51:00.000-06:00

Life's not always easy, even for the beautiful people.

Savannah is a beautiful child and so is her family. And their life is not so easy. But you'd never know it by the loving and giving within this family. They were a complete joy to work with and we plan to do another session in the spring.

Her mother found me through the American Child Photographers Charity Guild.
I had registered on the web site awhile back, to volunteer my services for any family with a desire to have portraits of a special needs child.
Savannah's mother April has outsmarted her doctors and kept her around 5 years longer than they had thought was possible. At seven, she is a hand full, literally. She must be carried, as she has no muscle control, and April stays at home with her, as public schooling leads to too many infections and more doctor visits. Her breathing is labored and her compromised brain (from birth) allows her to show little emotion. Her sister Chelsey is a wonderful help and has a very kind spirit and tons of patience.

The Dill Family Slideshow.

Savannah and Dad rested a minute during the shoot.

Julia and Matt (Mulia)

2007-12-16T23:52:00.000-06:00

Terry and I fell in love with these recent West Point grads. Julia and Matt have only just arrived in Clarksville and won't be here long, either. I told them if the military thing didn't work out, they'd always have a career in modeling!
Terry doesn't normally go with me on E-sessions, but he came along to hold my umbrella for me, as it was raining away with no relief in sight. So, it was kinda like a double date when we stopped in at Blondie's for a snack. I got loads of great shots, even after Julia was soaked when a car drove by and sprayed her feet! Great fun, good times. Here's their slideshow: Mulia!

Graduation Day!

2007-12-14T22:55:00.000-06:00

My first born graduated today! Jordan looked happy and radiant today as she received her diploma from Austin Peay...well they'll mail it shortly anyway. I couldn't be more proud. Here's her slideshow: graduation

Anna Grace is Two

2007-12-08T23:13:00.000-06:00

I just love Anna Grace. She is so aminated and full of herself. She came by for me to take some Christmas pictures in her pretty red dress. Here's the slideshow: Anna Grace

Ameir and Jen

2007-12-05T20:16:00.000-06:00

Oh wow! Is Ameir just too too cute? My hairdresser extraordinaire, Jen, and her son Ameir paid us a visit recently. I made a little slideshow of the pics: Ameir

Sweet Kayla

2007-11-28T21:06:00.000-06:00

I took some photos of a sweet baby girl and her parents this week. Baby Kayla is 3 months old and her mom and dad are so proud of her. Here's the family: The Kennedys

The Grandbabies

2007-11-26T21:31:00.000-06:00

Made a slideshow for my sister: The Grandbabies Take a look.

A time for Thanksgiving

2007-11-26T17:44:00.000-06:00

The annual Thanksgiving photo included all family members this year. We normally aggravate only the grandchildren with photo time for the holiday greeting cards, but this year I wanted us all. This way I don't have to force the group picture during our Christmas celebration. My brother Bill, his wife Janice, their daughters Jenna and Jessica are on the left. My sister Joy and her husband Jack are on the stairs, Jack's son Joe and his fiance Katherine are midway in the back, and my daughter Jordan and her fiance Michael are next to them. Terry and I finish the back row. Front left is my daughter Julianne and her friend Austin. Mother Wilmuth got the chair and Jack's daughter Dana is seated with her son Cole and husband Paul. Next is Joy's daughter Jill and her son Trey. Anthony; Joy's son, and his wife Ashlee and daughter Baylee make the family complete.
Jessica, Julianne, and Jordan
My girls.
And a wonderful image of the grandchildren.

Em & Tyler and Fun in Memphis

2007-11-18T20:27:00.000-06:00

We started with lunch at Chile's with our Memphis tour guides Tyler and Emily. Tyler is a Rhodes College Alum and showed us around his beautiful campus.

Emily will graduate from UT Martin when she finishes her student teaching this semester and the wedding is in May. Yay!
The library at Rhodes has a good selection and the happy couple found some educational reading.
They are both just beautiful and really 'worked it' for me. We had a great day.

Ahhh...downtown Memphis is always happening. These ladies said they were usually normal.

BB Kings was hoppin, too.

And here's the whole gang. Thanks for a big day in Memphis!

Six month milestone

2007-11-11T22:31:00.000-06:00

Miss Baylee was all dressed for Christmas in her Saturday photo shoot. She was fascinated with the huge ornaments I found for props. And there's mom and dad, Ashlee and Anthony with the little cutie.

Ella was celebrating her six month mark also and we did her photo shoot at her home.
She just had to show off her two new teeth! She is a happy baby. Here's her slideshow: Ella

Caryn and Andrew funtime

2007-11-05T00:34:00.000-06:00

After some pre-game exercises:

and some fancy
maneuvering

and a little warm-up
Caryn and Andrew made it to the Vol Walk in time to high-five Coach Fulmer on the team's way to a homecoming victory.
These two very sweet people will be wed in March and see many more football games together. They are a wonderful couple and we thoroughly enjoyed the festivities of a UT game week-end.
Caryn and Andrew will be at Pictage soon under Kimsey Givens Wedding.

Little Tricksters

2007-11-02T08:44:00.000-05:00

Is Baylee June the cutest duck ever? My great niece got a little warm in her duck outfit so photos were made separately of my three: the great niece and the nephews. Trey was looking suave in his Ratatouille (is that right?) costume.
And Cole looked fabulous as a dragon/dino. Not sure about which, but he sure looked cute!
Happy Halloween to all and to all a good night.

Yay Shea!

2007-10-30T11:32:00.000-05:00

Well, gee, I need to post!
I received a wonderful email from my friend Shea Halliburton yesterday and I need to share her images of her young cousin Charlie. He is the cutest thing! His daddy, Sammy used to read to my daughter Jordan when she was in kindergarten at East Montgomery. He was in the 5th grade and they came to the kindergarten classes to read to them. Is that sweet or what?
Shea is doing some really nice wedding work. She has great engagement photos of Sam Gentry and his intended.

Jordan and Michael

2007-10-12T23:43:00.001-05:00

Well, we met Michael in kindergarten...I thought he was cute, Jordan wasn't as impressed.
Then in high school, Michael's Aunt Patty and I threw them together, on the road to club volleyball competitions. Michael is great fun and very not-shy. Jordan has always been on the quiet side and very reserved. It was a match meant to be. I so adore both my beautiful daughter and my future son-in-law and greatly appreciate their indulgence in a very pleasant photo session in downtown Clarksville. The wedding is July 12. Save the date!

Both my 'children' will graduate from my alma mater, Austin Peay, shortly. Jordan is due to walk the line in December and Michael (he hit a glitch in scheduling) will receive his degree the following semester. Then it's on to grown-up jobs.

There are SEVERAL more photos of the tickled couple at Pictage. Enter: Evans Rye Wedding
Here is their multi-media birth-til-now show for the rehearsal dinner: Michael Jordan

Jenny and Russell....so happy together

2007-10-03T21:16:00.000-05:00

Now, that was fun!
Jenny and Russell are getting married next October and we had a fun engagement shoot today.
Russell is leaving in a couple of weeks on a humanitarian mission to Honduras and will be back just in time for the wedding, leaving all the fun of planning to Jenny!
Jenny is the granddaughter of my next door neighbors and has grown into quite a beautiful young woman.

They are so relaxed and comfortable with each other, the shoot was a breeze. They are just tickled to be together.

'Gimme a J'.... isn't it great to have your very own cheerleader?
And a fellow fashion plate? Nice hats! Thanks guys.

Looking Good

2007-09-28T23:20:00.000-05:00

Gina and Grant's wedding this past Saturday was lovely. The church was filled with beautiful flowers and the outdoor reception commenced under a huge tent at the groom's family home, with a lavish meal for guests.

Here are a few of my favorite images from the day:

Trey is Four

2007-09-12T07:44:00.000-05:00

My great nephew Trey turned 4 years old in May and we actually got around to photos before he turned 5! I adore his red hair. Here is one I like of Trey and his mom Jill. Jill is my sister's daughter and is a school teacher. What fun!

Volleyballers

2007-09-09T19:12:00.000-05:00

My Juli in on the Clarksville High JV volleyball team, undefeated until last Thursday (!), and I take the team photos for our programs. Here's Juli, workin' it.

I liked this one of Megan because of her eye color. She is also a sophomore player.
I thought Leora's photo turned out nicely also:
We have a boat load of sophomores this year, which makes our JV huge.And there are only 2 freshmen: Hailee and Marissa
The juniors are great fun at a photo shoot.

And the seniors, along with the juniors and back-up setter Lesette, are having a stellar season thus far. They remain undefeated in district season play. Check their web site: volleycats.

Grant and Gina

2007-09-04T19:41:00.000-05:00

Terry and I enjoyed Sunday evening with a very sweet couple we just met. Gina and Grant are getting married September 22nd and we took engagement photos in downtown Clarksville. I'm so proud of how downtown has been restored and revitalized (makes for a nice backdrop!).
Grant practiced some moves and fancy footwork on the corner of Franklin and 1st Street in front of the Roxy Theatre. Grant is a UT Grad (go Vols!) and Gina is an Austin Peay alum, but they have known each other since childhood, growing up in Ashland City.
They make a very attractive couple...can't wait for the wedding!

And then, it was off to Olive Garden and a pleasant meal to complete the evening. See more of Gina and Grant's photos at Pictage listed under Ray Gibbs Wedding.

Keystone Ranch Beauty

2007-08-30T11:14:00.000-05:00

YAY! Kay Beaton has the slide show ready from the Keystone, Colorado wedding where I served as second shooter. I love it! Take a look!

Just a little on the trashy side

2007-08-28T22:31:00.000-05:00

Our PUG Trash the Dress shoot was just way too much fun. I know the object of the shoot is to gather images that are out of the norm...but these two were just too cute, so I added this fun non-trashed shot of them.

Now this is sexy... and wet...the fountains at Bicentennial Mall provided an excellent prop for the session. What a trooper this bride was.

Another wonderful use of water in a photo. This was really too awesome. These girls were so great. My contribution to the shoot was my bride, Sam. Sam is a very non-southern belle. Her dark, sultry features (Portuguese lineage, she told me) added a nice contrast to our blonde models. Sam is a New Hampshire native and is in my neck of the woods with her military husband.

Sam also is a member of Nashville Music City Roller Girls and competes on a regular basis.

After the water fun, our fearless leader, Danielle Adams, led us downtown to Printer's Alley for some exciting alley work.

REALLY, REALLY happy photographers at work (or play) ! Andrea Hallgren, Whitney and Peter Carlson, and several others participated.
And, my dream team: Jen on hair, daughter Jordan assisting me, Sam my new BFF, and Nicole on make-up. I love these girls! thanks, you are the greatest!

Sweet Ryann

2007-08-20T22:08:00.000-05:00

Ryann is such a wonderful child. She has a great laugh and sweet disposition. Here is one of my favorite images from her studio session on Saturday.

Baby Ella and Baby Baylee

2007-08-20T21:11:00.000-05:00

Oh, Miss Ella, are you just the cutest?! Ella is the baby girl of a favorite bride and groom from a couple of years ago. Shelli and Glenn could not be more proud of her.

Miss Ella was also born the same day as my great niece, Baylee June, and she had her photo session the following day for her 3 month milestone.

Here's Baylee with her Grandma Joy, my sister. What a little sweetheart!

Sunday Bridal Show

2007-08-15T07:44:00.000-05:00

Beth, Lorri, and Jennifer: our fearless leaders! These ladies ran a flawless Clarksville Bridal Show on the campus of Austin Peay, this past Sunday. We had a lovely evening visiting with brides and their moms.
My daughter Jordan, far right, and two of her bridesmaids, Emily and Mary, toured the show and picked up ideas for her wedding next July. We all were interested in the fashion show with models we knew. Oh, to be young and beautiful! There were several blushing 'brides' from The Bride's Boutique modeling for the crowd. We found quite a few gowns we liked there on our shopping trip Saturday, and will return soon to make a final selection for Jordan. How exciting!

Almost Heaven

2007-07-31T21:34:00.000-05:00

Oh my goodness! Keystone Colorado is some backdrop for a wedding! My good friend and photographer Kay Beaton invited me out to second shoot with her and take in the beauty of the ranch. Here's Kay on the job...or is it really work at all?

Here is what she is watching so contentedly... the cutest ring bearer ever!

The bride and groom were extremely comfortable and revelled in the day. There were games of horse shoes, city slickers learning to rope stationary steers, wonderful ranch style food, and plenty of lively conversation with good friends.

Kate and Kevin are such a fabulous couple. They are both avid mountain bikers and the after- dinner toasts reflected their mutual love and respect of the countryside. The whole day was really a blast.

While Kay and I were busy recording some pretty darn good images, her husband took Terry fishing and hiking at the Montgomery Lake area. The Beaton youngun's (they just love it when we talk country) Heather and Tyler, entertained Terry also and he thoroughly enjoyed his day. They also caught our dinner of trout! Kirk whipped up some rice and corn to go with it and we were treated to a very pleasant dinner while Kay downloaded all the cards from the wedding.

Even though we will probably not fly Frontier again...that's a whole 'nother story...we had a great weekend in a beautiful landscape.

What a great group

2007-07-18T21:07:00.000-05:00

While Courtney and Eric are enjoying a Jamaica honeymoon, I'm working feverishly to get pictures of the beautiful wedding day posted at www.Pictage.com (enter Albright Kimsey Wedding). Madison Street Methodist is such a regal setting and affords so many opportunities for photos, we got carried away. Here is one of my favorites of the group, so far.

My first born is 4th from the left and will be getting married next summer. Jordan and Courtney have been best friends since kindergarten. Time sure does fly when you're raising great kids.

Just Beautiful

2007-07-10T12:29:00.000-05:00

In a 'hot' bridal shoot, descriptive of the temperature and the bride, Courtney looked beyond fabulous. Here is a teaser, as it would just be wrong (I think) to post all bridals before the wedding.

Speaking of hot...her mom Debbie aided in the dressing and my daughter Jordan assisted with finishing touches. What a cute trio.

Sunday

2007-07-09T13:29:00.000-05:00

My neighbor's boston terrier, at least I think that's what he is, came over for an ear scratch Sunday morning. He must have known how much I miss Mallory on Sunday mornings with my coffee on the porch. Mallory was about 14 years old when she moved on to dog heaven this spring.

He was an excellent visitor and as all the family members showed up for lunch, they all talked to him and said how well behaved he was.

The cat was not amused, however. She was less than thrilled about him using her personal space on the front porch.

Sunday was also bridal portrait day for my daughter Jordan's BFF Courtney. I'll post some of those later. She is a beautiful girl! The wedding is Saturday and Jordan will be in it. What a bonus for me. I can hardly wait.

That's a bunch of Paschalls

2007-06-27T19:19:00.001-05:00

The annual Paschall reunion, held June 17th, drew relatives from several surrounding states. The gang settled for a photo after a big ole lunch and lots of visiting.

Bears, oh my!

2007-06-27T18:40:00.000-05:00

Our trip to the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone allowed a grizzly bear sighting. Juli and Sam were so excited...almost as much as me and Terry! So, anyway, out she came.... ...followed by her two cubs; what a bonus. So naturally, we took gobs of pictures...
...along with 300 other tenderfoots. Still, it was great fun and she didn't seem to mind all the attention.

Sam and Terry and Juli posed for a photo at Jackson Lake Lodge (thanks to cousin Carol for the hook-up) in front of the Grand Tetons mountain range.
The four of us hiked a short trail to the Yellowstone Lodge overlook at Yellowstone's geyser area. We highly recommend Jackson Lake Lodge to anyone who is traveling that direction. There is no television, so we all stayed up half the night playing cards at the main lodge. It was great fun. We'll have to rest up and do it again sometime.

Baylee's Baptism

2007-06-17T18:26:00.001-05:00

Pastor Ken carried Baylee down the aisle while the congregation sang Jesus Loves Me.
Everyone is happy here except the guest of honor. It's dinner time for her. This is Ashlee's family visiting at Sango Methodist for little Baylee's baptism. It is also Father's Day and Pastor Ken's last Sunday at Sango. He's moving to Erin next Sunday and will be greatly missed.
Wow! The whole gang...Baylee's parents, grandparents and great-grandparents and aunts and uncles. There's a whole lot of love in this room.

Boys will be...

2007-06-13T13:43:00.000-05:00

Hayden and Ethan, hope those are spelled right, are a pure delight to their mother, Erinne. I collected the images of the boys and their cousin, Wells, for a 'day in the life' (more like an hour, as the pizza had arrived, hee hee) photo session. They are soooo active.

Shea's work

2007-06-13T11:00:00.000-05:00

Hey, Shea Halliburton has some nice work at byshea.
Shea is a native Clarksvillian who is living and working in Birmingham and has recently added wedding photography to her list of marketable talents. She is destined for great things.

I am gearing up for a big trip to the Grand Tetons next week. Since most of my trips involve photography workshops and seminars, this travel for pure pleasure will be a welcome change. I've talked daughter Juli into coming with me, but Jordan is holding out for the next trip to New York...better shopping there.

I did a fun shoot Sunday with some sweet little boys. I'll post soon. Stay tuned.

Relay for Life

2007-06-05T19:53:00.000-05:00

Relay for Life fund raiser photos.

Jessica, Wade, Michael and Greg helped to design luminaries (is that spelled right?)

Tom Vaughn visited with Luminarie (again, that word) Chair Joy Roberts, my sister, and her faithful clan: Irene, Jane, and Sandra.

My younger daughter, Juli, and Tommy Bagwell are yearly participants.

And my older daughter, Jordan, stopped working long enough for a photo shoot with me.

Ms Wanda Burchett is a very sweet lady. She is a hugger and a survivor.

My sister is a 23 year cancer survivor.

She volunteers every year for the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. She also recruits her nieces (two are my girls), who gladly oblige, and her merry band of church member buddies for the annual event. The fund raiser provides an opportunity to recognize survivors and honor the memory of loved ones who died of the disease.

The girls always make luminaries for their Papa, my dad.

Too funny

2007-06-04T01:40:00.000-05:00

Just one more of this fun group. Keep up with their wedding day photos as they are posted at www.Pictage.com. Enter: Winn Ranallo Wedding.

Here we go...

2007-06-03T22:53:00.000-05:00

Alyson's dream outdoor wedding was all she imagined; Great friends, great fun, a night to remember.

I Love these guys!

2007-06-03T09:43:00.000-05:00

Wow! That wedding was awesome (can I still use that word?). These guys were the greatest...the handsome groom is in the center, that's Kyle, and his dad is to his right and his new dad-in-law is on his left. Yep, that's Fuzzy in a tux. Apparently it rained (big time!) every where in Montgomery county except this little piece of land where the outdoor wedding was held. Good times.

Courtney & Eric

2007-06-01T15:20:00.000-05:00

They met in high school and she followed him off to college. The two Mississippi State grads are now ready to hit the ground running. Courtney and Eric are anxious to be married folk and start a life together. I slowed them down just long enough for some engagement shots. They are just so stinkin' cute together. See more of Courtney and Eric at www.pictage.com enter: Albright Kimsey wedding.

Leilani @ 50

2007-06-01T10:24:00.000-05:00

My 'old' friend Leilani made it to the half century mark today! Whew!...what a ride...still recovering from that wonderful wedding for her daughter, which we thoroughly enjoyed, and now celebrating 50 years of a life well lived!