Winchester, VA photographer: Blog

Winchester, VA wedding {Old Town Winchester} | Rave Imagery

Thu, 09 Jun 2016 01:42:28 GMT

I had a wonderful time second shooting this beautiful wedding with my friend Melissa from Melissa McCann Photography this past weekend. The ceremony was held at the First Presbyterian Church in Winchester, VA on the old town walking mall. The bride was beautiful and glowing. She was seriously a classic looking beauty. The groom was obviously SO in love with his gorgeous bride. Their love and respect for each other was very evident. :) The attention to detail was amazing and the gorgeous colors (golds, navys, and pinks) made for a beautiful ceremony and reception. The reception was held at the Millwood Fire Hall. The whole day was beautiful and full of love!

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Christmas Tree Mini Sessions in Your Jammies and at Your Home!

Fri, 06 Nov 2015 07:38:05 GMT

I am now offering Christmas Tree Mini Sessions! In your home! Decorating your tree. With hot cocoa and Christmas music playing. Candy canes and stockings. Kids in their Christmas Jammies! Or shots in front of your already decorated tree. Starting mid-November. Book now! Spots are limited! Early bird special...Book prior to November 16th and get $10 off! Sales tax will be added to session cost. These can be held in Winchester, VA, Inwood, WV or anywhere within 20 miles of zip code 25428. christmas mini board

Winchester, Va Photographer | Twins turn 1!

Fri, 16 Jan 2015 22:11:53 GMT

I've know this family for several years (friends of friends) and was tickled when they contacted me to book some first birthday shots for their twin babies. This session took two tries. First, we did some shots for the family's Christmas cards at their home and on their property and then the babies were DUN. They weren't having anything to do with personal shots. I went back a week later and they were more agreeable. We used the decorations from their first birthday party for the backdrop. Here are the cuties...Thing 1 and Thing 2.

Winchester, VA photographer | Fall 2014 sessions

Thu, 15 Jan 2015 17:21:21 GMT

Ok, so I'm doing some combining of sessions to catch up on blogging. These are my Fall 2014 sessions. Fall is my FAVORITE time of year to shoot. Hands down. Love the colors, the golden hour, the fashion. LUUURVE it! Most of these families were repeat clients (some were mini sessions, some full). Except for this first family who received a gift certificate for Christmas from a friend (another repeat client). I love new clients just as much as repeat ones!

Winchester, VA photographer | Spring mini sessions (2014)

Thu, 15 Jan 2015 16:49:13 GMT

Oh boy! Time to catch up on blogging. Here are some images from 8 months ago. Spring mini sessions. I'm waaaayy behind. ;) These sessions were held at Clearbrook park in Winchester, VA. Everything was in bloom but it was a little windy. Both families were playful, repeat clients. Love repeat clients! And, on a side-note, this is the first time that the little man in the first set of photos willingly smiled for me, talked to me, and didn't cry. It's amazing to watch children grow and personalities change!

We also got some maternity shots in for mom during this spring mini session. :)

Winchester, VA birth photography special

Thu, 15 Jan 2015 15:57:57 GMT

Birth photography....I ADORE it! So, I am looking for a few women (preferably delivering in the Winchester, Va area) over the next month or two who would be interested in having their birth photographed. A birth session is such a special occasion. All the emotions (anxiety, joy, elation, love). You can't get it back!

If you're interested in the 50% discount (I'm also offering 35% off First Glimpse sessions for a limited time), please email me at [email protected]. I offer complimentary consultations so we can meet up and discuss all of your questions. :)

The packages can be found here: www.raveimagery.com/birthphotography

(Please note that, due to the huge discount, all layflat albums will be removed from the packages with this offer).

Little man | 6 months old | Winchester, VA photographer

Wed, 10 Sep 2014 20:35:04 GMT

Back to another session with one of my favorite families! I love lifestyle photography and I've been blessed to capture Brayden's birth, newborn, and 6 month milestones all in the "lifestyle" fashion.

This photo was a remake of one my friend had done when her little girl was just 3 months old. It came out really well!

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Back to School mini session| Winchester, VA photographer

Thu, 04 Sep 2014 05:37:51 GMT

I've been meaning to post these, but the last 3 weeks have flown by since my children started school! My house got a wonderful spring cleaning (albeit 4-5 months late) and I've pretty much just been organizing, organizing and more organizing now that the kids are both in school all day. Organizing everything from my business to my house to my workout habits, etc. I've got a pretty good routine going now that I'm home alone all day. Cue angels singing. ;) And on another note, my baby started kindergarten this year! I'm not really sure how that happened. Time FLIES!!! Here are some photos I shot the day before they went back as a sort of back to school mini session. :) I now have a 3rd grader and a Kindergartener on my hands. Or should I say a wanna-be-ninja and a girl who's super excited that she has a locker this year. ;)

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A few personal ones | Winchester, VA photographer

Thu, 04 Sep 2014 03:43:16 GMT

So I'm posting these images just about....6 weeks after our beach trip. Way to be on top of things, huh? ;) We had a wonderful time at Myrtle Beach. We went with friends and the kids played well and we got to relax. So much fun. We headed down to the beach close to sunset one evening to grab some family shots. Thanks to my friend, Holly, for using my camera to shoot some images of us!

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Rusk Family Farm Session | Winchester and Inwood Child and Family Portrait Photographer

Sun, 03 Aug 2014 05:00:09 GMT

Welp...it was that time of year again to meet up with the Rusk family. I LOVE photographing this family and seeing their family continue to grow with each new photo session. This is the third time I've had the pleasure of capturing their family's yearly photos. Each time is a blast. We laugh a ton and each year the kids grow to like me more and more ;) The first couple of years, they were a little....ummm...leery of the lady with the camera. But we've bonded now. Ok,maybe not bonded, but at least they've warmed up to the camera and even when they don't seem to want to smile, I love the girls' sucking their thumbs and just being themselves. This is the second year we've met up at this location, which I love! We traipse through cow patties, frolic in the tall grass, and just enjoy the 'country' feel of a farm. Can't wait until next year's session when they've added another bundle to the mix.

Last year's session can be seen here:

http://www.raveimagery.com/blog/2013/8/rusk-family-farm-session

Poor House Farm Session| Winchester and Inwood Family and Child Photographer

Sun, 03 Aug 2014 04:41:19 GMT

I had the pleasure of meeting up with this family on a hot summer evening to shoot a session at Poor House Farm in Martinsburg. They found me through past clients. I love client referrals that come from past and present photography clients. I had a great time photographing them as a family and then focusing on little Miss Maggie who celebrated a 5th birthday recently and was full of sass. ;) Enjoy!

Newborn Lifestyle Session | Winchester, VA newborn photographer

Wed, 07 May 2014 15:15:27 GMT

This is my best friend's family (we go back 20+ years, y'all)! I was blessed to be present at the birth of her second baby and then to come into their home and shoot a lifestyle session once they'd settled in. I love lifestyle photography! And I love this family!

Baby Boy Birth Session | Winchester, VA birth photographer

Thu, 20 Mar 2014 02:25:39 GMT

I recently had the pleasure of being present at the birth of my best friend's second baby. A precious little boy! She was trying for a VBAC after some complications with her first birth. And she was successful! I loved helping her through her delivery and am honored that she allowed me to be her birth photographer, as well. Below is a video I put together of many of the images from little Brayden's birth. Enjoy! And congrats again, Holly and Charlie. Love you guys to the moon and back!

*Photographer (birth, family, child, maternity, senior, etc.) serving Winchester, VA and the surrounding areas. Contact me at [email protected] for inquiries.

Snow Day Photo Shoot | Me, Myself, & I

Sat, 25 Jan 2014 00:20:50 GMT

So....we've had so much snow this winter already. My kids have already exhausted their extra built in snow days at school so they'll probably be going until mid-July by this point. We had yet another snow day this past Tuesday, which turned into a snow week because my kids missed every single day of school this week (needless to say, the bickering got old by day 2). I decided to grab a few shots of myself the first day it snowed because my children are so over me taking their photos. It was COLD and I had my husband shoot maybe 20 shots of me before I froze my butt off. The children were already outside playing so I grabbed one of my son, as well. My daughter - not cooperating so much ;)

Gentry | 15 months old snow session

Sat, 18 Jan 2014 14:17:20 GMT

My nephew was needing some 15 month photos done and it had snowed the previous day so I called up my sister (actually I texted her) and said let's do some in the snow. It was a 20 minute sessions (tops), but we got a few good ones!

Snyder | Dedication Service

Sat, 18 Jan 2014 14:12:44 GMT

My cousin Heather asked me to photograph her sons' dedication service one Sunday morning in September. So after our family reunion, I stayed with my mom and then we got up and drove the 45 minutes to the service the next morning. I love that both boys were dedicated at the same time to the Lord. And that they had so much family supporting them.

Swiger Family | Fall session

Sat, 18 Jan 2014 05:45:18 GMT

This family came to me by way of referral through her sister who has been a repeat client of mine. They were in town for a birthday party, so they booked a session around their visit. It was a gorgeous Fall day in Berkeley Springs, WV and we got some beautiful family and individual shots. And we even grabbed a few "senior" shots at the end of the session.

Phelps' Children | Fall Photo Session

Sat, 18 Jan 2014 05:39:30 GMT

I did this session for a fellow photographer. We met at Blandy Farm. It was a gorgeous Fall evening. Gorgeous sunset and gorgeous sky. And one little boy who didn't wanna stop running and was very shy toward me. He warmed up to me by the end, though. And little miss was so cute and looking like a diva with her pink glitter boots! Loved them.

"S" Family | Fall Session

Sat, 18 Jan 2014 05:31:31 GMT

This family is yet another that I met through my son's preschool. This session was held in Shepherdstown. We started out at Morgan's Grove Park and sauntered over to the Bavarian Inn after to take advantage of the gorgeous structures it has to offer. The sky was gorgeous on this particular evening. :)

"F" family | Fall photo session

Sat, 18 Jan 2014 05:24:24 GMT

Oh my gosh! I just loved this session. We met at Morgan's Grove Park in Shepherdstown, WV for the shoot. It was a windy, chilly day but it was still fun! You could just tell how much mom and dad love their kids and each other during the session. And, to top it off, the kids were adorable! ♥

"W" family | Fall photo session

Sat, 18 Jan 2014 05:13:30 GMT

The gorgeous "W" family. It was a chilly Fall day when we did this shoot but the light was gorgeous through the trees. Love the sibling candid shots and I adore the ones of mom and dad with baby Owen. So sweet.

Kerns Family | Fall photo session

Sat, 18 Jan 2014 05:04:26 GMT

This is my friend's gorgeous family. They picked a beautiful location for Fall photos...their neighbors' backyards. They were full of Fall colors set off by the sun. We just traipsed from one yard to the next. :)

Baby Baptism at St. Leo's

Sat, 18 Jan 2014 04:57:34 GMT

My friend (and fellow photographer), Melissa, asked me to take some shots during her daughter's baptism back in November. Here are the images from Miss A's baptism. It took place at the beautiful St. Leo's Catholic Church in Inwood, WV.

Fall mini sessions | Canned Goods Drive

Thu, 16 Jan 2014 15:04:45 GMT

This was a day of Fall mini sessions I held for the families at my son's preschool. We also held a canned goods drive during this event and gave some of the proceeds back to the preschool. It was a gorgeous fall day. Lots of fun and laughter.

Loy Family | Handley High School | Fall 2013

Thu, 16 Jan 2014 14:47:29 GMT

A little background on this family....I've known them FOREVER. Well not forever, but Jessica, Rick, and I all went to the same church and grew up together in the same youth group. Jess and I have been besties for several years. And their mom is like a surrogate mom to me. Love them! Doug (Jess's dad) attended Handley High School growing up and wanted photos at his alma mater. The family loves all things football and are Redskins fans. So we incorporated all that into this session and, of course, the gorgeous sunlight of the golden hour and the beautiful fall foliage.

Newborn session | Sisters

Thu, 16 Jan 2014 14:05:14 GMT

Oh my goodness! Sweet sisters. This session was a little difficult because older sister is not yet 2 and was in the normal "I don't wanna sit still long enough to take a picture or smile" phase ;) I think we all know that phase well. However, we got some good shots of the girls together and some of newborn baby girl by herself, as well. And even a few of older sister.

Arnold Family | Fall session at the orchard

Thu, 16 Jan 2014 04:33:44 GMT

I met this family last year when my son and their youngest daughter began attending the same preschool. They were so much fun to shoot! Mom has lost almost 100 lbs in the last year! She looks Amazing. The kids were a hoot (just check out the girls' poses) and Scott (dad) and I had fun making wisecracks. This session was shot in the orchard at Orr's Farm Market since mom knew the owners. It was a blast and I love all the golden sunset colors. Fall...what's not to love? ♥

McKechnie Family | Fall 2013

Thu, 16 Jan 2014 04:04:59 GMT

I love this family! I first met them back when their daughter was just 3 months old. We met through a friend of mine who was in their baby class. We had monthly "baby group" meetings the first year or so of our children's lives. I'm glad that they continue to trust me to capture images of their growing family. They have beautiful land (both at their home and office) in Berkeley Springs, WV where these images were shot.

Fall Family Session

Thu, 16 Jan 2014 02:51:58 GMT

My cousin's beautiful family. We did this shoot back in October and I just love the gorgeous colors on the trees! I miss those colors already. This session was shot on October 6th and, of course, we had a heat wave that weekend and it was 87 degrees that evening! Craziness.

Rachel | Senior Session | October 2013

Thu, 16 Jan 2014 02:33:15 GMT

Well, now I feel OLD! I've know this young lady since she was four years old and I taught her Sunday school class when I was eighteen and a senior in high school myself! Rachel attends school in Clarke County and is finishing high school a year early. I wish James Wood had allowed that when I was in high school! She wanted to do some shots at her high school and then some in downtown Berryville, VA, which we did. And a few with her dog, some balloons, and even her fairy wings ;)

Clarke| mini session

Wed, 15 Jan 2014 23:44:31 GMT

Clarke's family had purchased a mini session as a Black Friday special back in 2012. They used one for his sister's 1 year photos and one mini session for his 8th birthday portraits. These were taken on a friend's farm. Love his freckles and his clarity about his future. He told me he wanted to own a farmer's market when he grows up. :)

Baby "K's" Birth

Wed, 15 Jan 2014 22:00:05 GMT

So I am WAY behind blogging this. My sister-in-law gave birth back on August 1st to her second daughter. She is actually currently pregnant again, believe it or not! Anyway, I was there during her labor and got to take some photos, as well. I absolutely love birth photography. Here are some from her labor and delivery (censored, of course). ;) I actually had to go to the hospital twice because she was sent home at first and then had to come back 4 hours later, which explains the big lapse in photos between the triage room and when she was finally admitted.

Newborn Baby "K"| 3 weeks new

Fri, 30 Aug 2013 04:52:33 GMT

My cousin had her second baby boy back in May and I had the pleasure of photographing him when he was 3 weeks old. It was a bit chaotic at my mom's house (where we held the session), but we suffered through. It only took baby boy 2-3 hours to finally fall asleep so we could get some shots. ;) He's such a cutie and we managed to get a couple of shots with older brother and a few with mom and dad, too. The theme of the session was Dr. Seuss for baby K's room and camo for the boys' man cave.

Rusk family| Farm Session

Fri, 30 Aug 2013 04:17:46 GMT

I photographed this family last year when there were just two babies. I was thrilled when mom contacted me for another session and said they now have a 7 month old! I couldn't wait to see them all again and meet the new babe. We met at a farm in Inwood that dad works at sometimes. It was gorgeous. The lighting was great since it was the golden hour, location beautiful, and kiddos were just a little hard to make cooperate. ;) However, the littlest one cooperated just fine, which was awesome since the shoot was mainly for her. We got a bunch of great shots of everyone, though. And had fun in the meantime. :)

Little Miss V | Mini session

Fri, 03 May 2013 05:49:46 GMT

I did photos for Miss V's family back in November. Her momma decided to purchase a buy one, get one free mini session I was offering in order to capture some more moments of growth in 2013. We initially had to reschedule this session due to sickness. Of course, the rescheduling date wasn't nearly as warm as the original. ;) But we survived. It was about 55 degrees out, but Miss V was a trooper. She wasn't, however, in the mood for smiles. So we got more solemn looks than anything. But Mom says that she's laid back and normally very chill, so I think we captured her personality well :) She's so tiny and hasn't grown much since November, but you can see that her hair will be red like her oldest brother's and she's standing (assisted) now. Such a sweet thing.

Sarah | Maternity {36 weeks}

Fri, 03 May 2013 04:39:58 GMT

The gorgeous Sarah answered my maternity model call (as I desired to add to my portfolio). She was 36 weeks pregnant and hoping to go into labor that very week (per doctors' predictions). However, as I blog this (3 1/2 weeks later), still no sign of her baby girl. Those first babies sure take their time! Spring was just starting to show itself when we did this session and I LOVE all the beautiful trees. We went to 2 separate locations and I LUV them both. I made poor Sarah tromp through the woods on the second one and feared she WOULD go into labor, but thank God she didn't ;) I love how these photos turned out and can I just say HOLY COW, some people are just made to be pregnant....this girl is one of them! She looks gorgeous. Pregnancy has never looked better.

Chapman | Lifestyle session

Fri, 03 May 2013 04:16:50 GMT

My sister called me up 3 days before she was leaving for a trip to Michigan and wanted some 6 months photos of her baby boy before he turned 7 months (which was like a week away and they'd be gone visiting friends at that point). I decided to just head to her house the next morning and try out a lifestyle session since time was limited. I really enjoyed it! We caught lots of real moments...lunch time, play time, crawling time (or rocking to attempt to crawl), bath time, video game time ;) and more! Loved doing this.

My Kiddos Easter portraits

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 06:15:30 GMT

I took some Easter photos of my little ones last week. I did a mini session with Carter by himself while his sister was at school and used one of his a "Springy" pinstripe suit....mainly because I had two outfits I wanted to use for him. I'm indecisive ;) Then, when Kenzie arrived home, I took some shots of them together w/ coordinating outfits (from Gracie Ann Designs). I really like the yellow background ones a lot. On another note, these two make me work to get good (well any) shots. I am not sure how I am so patient with my clients' kids, but can't even make it through a 30 minute session with my own two! Agghhhh...photographers' kids. They are, by far, my most difficult clients! :)

Shaelyn is ONE!

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 19:54:05 GMT

I've been photographing Miss Shaelyn since she was a newborn. Her momma brought her to my house a few days before Valentine's Day for a ONE year session. Unfortunately (as we later learned), the little miss was getting sick so she was a tad bit cranky and not her usual smiley self. But we persevered and got some sweet images. :)

Family Session | Blandy Farm

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 19:36:29 GMT

Alison contacted me to set up a session for her family while they were in town. They chose Blandy Farm for the location (after I gave a few suggestions) and we had to postpone the first day due to cold weather. The second day wasn't much warmer and the wind kicked up a few times, but we survived...barely. ;) And wound up with some great family shots and individual couple shots!

Cake smash session | Cat in the Hat theme

Fri, 04 Jan 2013 06:25:31 GMT

Shawn's mom contacted me after I did their holiday mini session and asked about doing a cake smash session. He was having a Cat in the Hat themed party, so we planned for the same type of cake smash session. Shawn's aunt made the cake (shout out to It's a Piece of Cake!) and did a wonderful job. Poor Shawn was cutting teeth the day he visited me for his session and wasn't feeling the greatest. And it was his actual birthday. But he made it through :) Doesn't he have the cutest little red, button lips and gorgeous blue eyes?!? So cute!

"C" children | milestones

Fri, 04 Jan 2013 05:07:22 GMT

I met up with this momma and her kiddos at Abram's Delight in late November because miss Julia had turned 1 and Brian was close to 3. Hitting those milestones, so momma wanted some photos. Unfortunately, Brian is not my biggest fan ;) He's shy and does not like my camera at all! He never really warmed up to me this time (he did better when I did his family's photos last spring), but I did catch a few smiles when I brought out my giant lollipop. Miss Julia, however, was super smiley and easy-going this go-round. Finally, Mom just threw her head back and laughed at the idea of getting a shot of the two of them together and facing the camera. Brian literally turned around and away from me right before this shot!

"U" family session | winter 2012

Fri, 04 Jan 2013 04:50:53 GMT

I met with this family on a chilly December afternoon to get some winter photos. Last year, I took their photos during Fall on their land, but this year they wanted some winter shots. This session was held at Clearbrook park. Love some of the light shots and love to see these twin sisters growing up! I've known them since they were born! Crazy!

:) Peeking in Santa's workshop ;)

And the winner is.....

Thu, 22 Nov 2012 16:15:09 GMT

First I'd like to say thank you to the 5 people who made nominations and showed how much they were thankful for a certain family in their life. Now on to the winner. It was a close race at the end, but the winning family is....the Spezzano family! Congratulations on winning a free mini session + 5 images on a disk. Behind by just 5 votes, the Chapman family will win a consolation prize of a $25 gift certificate to use toward a session. Thanks to everyone for their entries and votes! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving everyone. Be thankful for all the friends and family in your lives.

Holiday Mini Sessions!

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 06:56:06 GMT

Mini sessions were held this past Saturday. I chose an area in Bunker Hill where there were a lot of pine trees. I brought some hot chocolate and treats (though it wound up reaching 63 degrees that day so weren't of much use). I had a lot of fun and didn't just stick to one spot. We walked around the small park area to get different looks for the families. All in all, it was a great day :-)

H family fall photos

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 06:33:19 GMT

This family found me through a few past clients on Facebook that they are friends with. They hadn't had a family photo done in more than 3 years, I believe. They were SO much fun to work with. Sweet boys (though the mom swore otherwise) and a sweet baby girl. The kids also had great, classic names and I LOVED the hair and bow-tie. :) Mom was looking for less formal shots and to capture everyone's true personality, so, although we did some posed shots, we also just played around a lot!

Isaac | Senior 2013

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 05:58:25 GMT

Sheesh! Boy do I feel old. I've known Isaac since he was like, ummm....5 years old! Nuts, right? Because now he's a high school senior, which means I'm at least 12 years older than I used to be ;) We met up and did an Old Town Winchester session. Great urban feel to these shots.

Sulser Family Fall Session

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 05:43:30 GMT

After postponing this session several times due to illness, I was finally able to meet up with this family to grab some Fall shots one Saturday afternoon. I've known them for many, many years and have watched all of their kids grow since infancy. Makes me feel OLD! Again, more great Fall colors. This time at Blandy Farm.

Thomas Family Fall session

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 05:25:56 GMT

Met up with this sweet family that I've known for several years in mid-Fall for some family photos! Loved the Fall colors going on at the Jim Barnett park!

Abby & Ousman

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 04:10:34 GMT

I had given my sister-in-law a free session for Christmas several years ago and she just got around to using it! This session is of her and her boyfriend. We met up at Abram's Delight early one Fall morning to get some shots of the two of them. I love the soft feel to many of these shots :)

Thanksgiving mini session giveaway! I'm thankful for the _______ family!

Sun, 11 Nov 2012 19:42:13 GMT

This is my first year hosting a Thanksgiving giveaway and I'm SUPER excited. I can't wait to give back to one deserving family. Each contending family was nominated by friends or family. You can read below why they think these families deserve a free mini session. Everyone needs family photos and I'm glad to be able to provide that to the winner!!! That said, here are the rules: Simply follow the two mandatory steps below (below all the entries)! All new "Like-ers" of my Facebook fan page must come from a pre-existing facebook page and must be a real person. I will not allow new pages to be created to simply win a contest. Any violators of this will have their votes removed. Let's play fair! :) The winning family must be willing to come to Winchester, VA or the surrounding area for their session. The session is good for up to 6 people and must be used by June 30, 2013. Good luck to all the families! (This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. We hereby release Facebook of any liability. Winner will be contacted by email 24 hours after the giveaway ends.)

1) The Ambrose Family (nominated by Melody Popp)

I would like to nominate Brandon and Kelsey Ambrose for the free photo session. They are a wonderful family with 4 kids!

Brandon and Kelsey are a wonderful couple who work very hard and love their four children! Brandon works full time during the week and part time on Saturdays, coaches his sons sports teams and volunteers at his church. Kelsey is a full time stay at home mom, babysits when needed, and also works nights part time to help out. She volunteers at church and is always there to help a friend in need. They are a wonderful family that really deserve this photo shoot. I am submitting a picture of their children because they don't have one of all of them together! This would be the perfect way to make sure they get a family photo taken this year!

Thanks so much!

2) The Dillon Family (nominated by Sheri Williams)

I would like to nominate the Dillons for the Thanksgiving photo give-away. They are very special family who demonstrate through everyday living the importance of Family and living for God. They are always available for advice, prayer, assistance, or just a listening ear at any time.

Daily, I know that our lives are affected positively by the fact that our pastor prays diligently for us. He leads us, teaches us and guides us in the ways and the will of God without hesitation and with utmost sincerity.

Sis Dillon has been to me a true example of what a woman of God empowered by His Holy Spirit can be as a friend, daughter, sister, mother, and especially as a wife. She demonstrates a gentle poise that is always sincere and full of love and concern. I appreciate her and love her dearly.

Kayla has grown up right before my eyes into a sweet, compassionate and authentic young lady that I am proud that my own daughters look up to. Her sweet gentle spirit and faithfulness is inspirational to me as a mom striving to teach my children the word of God.

They are a beautiful family who we as a family look to for guidance and direction. We appreciate the Dillons!

Please vote for them!!

3) The Chapman Family (Tammy Chapman and Danielle Thornsbury)

(Nominated by Danielle Chapman)

I want to nominate (my husband) Chris's family, not only because they are now my family, but because they are like family to everyone they meet. They are always so giving, no matter the need. If they can help in any way, they will. Tammy will go above and beyond to make sure others are taken care of, even when it's a complete inconvenience to her! Danielle is always there to make you smile and can lighten the mood in any situation. They are more than worthy of this photo shoot. I know many people are thankful for these ladies.

4) The Long Family (Nominated by Samantha Long)

I would like to nominate my sister Heather and her daughter Kayleigh. I think they would be deserving because no matter how much Heather is 
going through or any of her family members, she's always there. I am forever grateful for her because anytime I've needed her she's stopped
what she has been doing and came to my rescue. She is the most caring and loving person ever. She would give the shirt off of her back to give to someone.
She sees through your flaws and doesn't judge you. And without her and Kayleigh, I wouldn't have a job.

5) The Spezzano Family (Nominated by Bridgett Baltes)

My parents (Robert and Donna Spezzano) and my 5 year old brother (Robbie Spezzano) are who I think deserves this (mini session prize) most. Most of their special moments are recorded in horrible iPod picture quality, are usually self portraits that have faces cut out, and rarely have the 3 of them together. Usually its either Robbie and my dad or Robbie and my Mom. My mom actually came to me after Robbie graduated from preschool, in tears, because upon going through the pictures she took, there were none of her and Robbie together. These three are the most important people in my life and deserve to have a picture of the 3 of them, together, to hang up on the wall.

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Style Tips: Ideas for What to Wear for Fall sessions

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 14:38:03 GMT

Reposting my blog post from last year about what to wear for Fall sessions.

It's time for Fall sessions! Yay! This is my favorite time of the year to go shopping and put together outfits. I love Fall colors! Here is just one idea of how to create a cohesive look using Fall colors and patterns! :-) (I found all of these clothing items at oldnavy.com). Try to use colors that coordinate with each other and tones that go well together. Avoid bright, bold patterns or patterns that clash. Brown and pinks go well together. Purples and grays. Maroon and orange with a touch of yellow. Turquoise and browns. Army greens and tans, etc. You get the idea. Think of the color wheel and pick out complimentary colors :-) Maybe pick one or two accessories that pop. Layers and textures look great in photos, too. Have fun. Visit oldnavy.com or gap.com if you need ideas!

Awaiting the Arrival of my Nephew + He's Here!

Tue, 25 Sep 2012 19:41:31 GMT

This post will have a few personal photos added in :) This is my sister's second baby and we started doing very mini shoots (sometimes 5 mins just to get a few shots) from 18 weeks on every 6 or 8 weeks. It made for a neat collage/timeline at the end. Baby Gentry made his debut in late August with a head full of hair (like his sister) and arriving so quickly (30 minutes after my sister checked into the hospital) that I didn't get to try my hand at birth photography like I'd hoped. My mom didn't even make it to the delivery! And, although the kid is awake more than any newborn I've ever met and didn't wanna cooperate for any sessions for me, I still ♥♥♥ him! He's precious!

18 weeks pregnant:

Boy or Girl???

BOY!!!

Go Team Blue!

26 weeks pregnant:

31 weeks pregnant:

37 weeks pregnant:

WELCOME Baby Gentry!!!

Warming him up...his temp was a little low.

Me and G :)

Gentry at home:

AHHHH-

CHOOOO! ;)

My daughter meeting her new cousin for the first time:

Some portrait shots:

Miss Riley turns 1 | Cake Smash

Tue, 25 Sep 2012 15:02:40 GMT

I know Riley from church. Her aunt contacted me to have one year old photos and a cake smash session done. The session was held at Clearbrook park and the little miss was very sweet that day and kept hugging me :)

Time to clean up! The water was cold and she wasn't having it at first, but then she just got used to it and then didn't want to get out!

Storyboard of Riley's session

Sweet Baby Girl | 8 months

Tue, 25 Sep 2012 14:00:03 GMT

Miss Shaelyn's mommy is one of my best friends. This little girl is so happy! And CHUBBY! Love me some chubby babies. So crazy to see how tiny she was just 8 months ago --- who knew the tiny 5 lb 8 oz newborn would get so big and have so many rolls? She looks like a little cabbage patch doll. :)

And now a little look at how she's grown :)

Family Farm Session

Tue, 25 Sep 2012 13:51:01 GMT

I've known Heather since elementary school. She contacted me to have photos of her family taken on their family farm. Her grandparents are close to ninety and she wanted to preserve these memories. :)

M family | Awaiting Baby #2

Tue, 25 Sep 2012 13:15:38 GMT

I was introduced to this wonderful family through another close friend. I've enjoyed watching tiny Miss Sofia grow into a beautiful 3 year old. Can't wait to meet the little boy they have on the way! These photos were taken at their home/property in Berkeley Springs during my favorite time to shoot (the golden hour). :)

"B" wedding | July 28, 2012

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 21:50:35 GMT

This wedding was for one of my friend's from church and her fiance. Love her and gonna miss her when she moves to be with her new hubby! The wedding was held at our church and the reception at Shenandoah University (where the groom used to work). Very fun wedding!

"S" Wedding | July 14, 2012

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 19:26:06 GMT

My cousin's wedding. :) My cousin and her fiance's wedding ceremony was held at Abram's Delight (where the mosquitoes are pesky little things) and her reception at Greenwood firehall. Lots of love and laughter this day. Such a fun bridal party and fun family, plus my girl got to be the flower girl which made it extra special. ♥♥♥

Mommy & Baby session | July 2012

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 18:19:43 GMT

Wow! Trying to catch up on blogging from this summer. So sad, but true. This session was done in July at Harper's Ferry near dusk. We had to hike almost a mile (lugging props mind you) to these locations. Very humid, but worth it. Miss Abbi wasn't feeling the smiles by the end so we got some more serious expressions in those shots. :)

Kenzie turns 6 (a couple of months ago)

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 05:30:49 GMT

Well, at least I didn't show any partiality in finishing up my kids birthday pics. My daughter's birthday is 9 days after my son's and I am just getting them finished tonight, as well. But again, you still see new photos of her on facebook on a pretty regular basis, too. What can I say? I'm a busy girl. ;0

I took her photos in the mountains of WV near my grandma's house. Loved the setting and lighting. It was dusk...almost darkness by the time we finished.

My buddy's 3 year old pictures (finally!)

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 05:02:17 GMT

So...my son turned 3 at the beginning of May and I finally just finished editing and blogging his session. Not that you guys haven't seen a ton of pics of him recently anyway ;)

Sweet Baby Josiah {8 days new}

Wed, 20 Jun 2012 04:52:33 GMT

I traveled almost an hour last week to this little man's home. His family goes to my church and it was fun watching his momma's belly grow and grow over the last 9 months ;) This sweet little man took over an hour to get to sleep, but we finally got some shots AND he didn't pee or poo on me! The first newborn, so far, not to mark their territory on me ;-)

I Heart Faces photo challenge (June) | pure, rotten, boy

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 03:11:35 GMT

I thought I'd enter this photo of my 3 year old son into this months I Heart Faces "All Boy" photo challenge because every time I look at it, it makes me smile. At the time I took this photo, my son was singing "Red Solo Cup" at the top of his lungs. He's all boy and all rotten and he knows it ;) Love that I caught this moment. Just something about it. Pure glee and pure abandon. Boys just don't care, I tell ya! This photo was submitted to the I Heart Faces photo challenge – www.iheartfaces.com

"R" family spring session | Harpers Ferry

Wed, 16 May 2012 03:32:05 GMT

I met this family at Harpers Ferry one beautiful (and humid) evening in the beginning of May. They were referred to me by her sister (whose family had a session with me a few weeks prior). The little ones were both thumb and finger suckers and both seemed a little anxious of me and my camera ;) I love all the little doe-eyed looks I got from them. :-) Such cuties!

'W' family Spring Session | Blandy Farm

Tue, 08 May 2012 04:54:09 GMT

This was the week that I frequented Blandy Farm 3 or 4 times ;-) This session was supposed to take place in January, but due to weather and other issues, got postponed several times. I'm glad we waited until things were in bloom again to finally do the shoot. The weather was a little bit nippy for a Friday evening in early April, but we got the session done and there was lots of pretty scenery around to make it worth the wait :)

"C" family session | Blandy Farm

Mon, 07 May 2012 16:04:39 GMT

I had the pleasure of meeting up with the "C" family a few weeks ago to take some spring portraits. Their little boy was full of energy and their little girl is quite the serious cutie :) I love a lot of these shots b/c you can tell it's the hour before sunset. My favorite hour to shoot!

Spring mini session | Abram's Delight

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 16:25:03 GMT

Such a cutie! And a pretty mommy! This was another make-up session due to rain on the original mini session dates. We changed the location from Blandy Farm to Abram's Delight at the last minute due to time constraints, but still had a good session. :)

Spring mini session | Blandy Farm

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 16:00:42 GMT

Another spring mini session that had to have a make-up day due to rain. This little one ALWAYS makes me work hard to take her picture. She won't sit still for 2 seconds. Gotta love her energy. You can see her making mommy work, too!

Spring Mini Session

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 15:11:48 GMT

Another spring mini session at Abrams Delight. Love this sweet momma and her kiddos. :)

Spring mini session Video

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 13:59:39 GMT

Just wanted to try a quick video to see if I like it better for sharing images from sessions. This was one of my spring mini sessions. Gorgeous little girl and her pretty momma.

1 year old Smash Cake Session

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 17:11:31 GMT

Baby "M" came to my house last week for her 1 year old session. We were hoping for warmer weather to shoot outdoors, but again, Mother Nature had her way :-/ This little one was adorable (especially her tiny pink painted nails and toe-nails) and we still got a bunch of great shots indoors. She didn't make as much as a mess as you'd expect, but enough that there was still cake all over my floors and she needed a bath afterwards. ;) My mom made the cute zebra cake and her mom got all her zebra outfits off of Etsy, I believe. So cute!

Quick Spring Session with my Kiddos

Sun, 11 Mar 2012 05:20:01 GMT

Well, since Mother Nature decided that she only wanted to reach a high of 49 degrees today, I had to reschedule my outdoor spring mini sessions. However, since I wanted to see my props in action before the sessions take place, I took my kids out for about 10 or 15 mins for a quick shoot . They were cold, but we got a few decent shots. :)

S & C | Engagement Session

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 03:57:09 GMT

I was finally able to meet up with my cousin and her fiance for their engagement session a few weeks ago. Seeing that it's the middle of the winter, we were lucky to get a 50 degree day (or maybe not lucky, considering how mild this winter has been). We chose to go to Old Town Winchester for the session and found some really cute session ideas on Pinterest. These two are so much fun - I can't wait to shoot their wedding in July!