I’ve wanted to use the moped in some photos for a while. It is fun to ride, and it might be even more fun to incorporate into photos. So, when Dawn and David came to Harrisonburg from the D.C area I knew it would be the perfect time to bring it out – just a little advantage of doing an esession where I’m at. It also helped take away the deer in the headlights feeling that most people get when stepping in front of the camera. We started downtown in a more urban setting and then went a few minutes away into the country so we ended up with a lot of variety that I’m excited to show you.

Time for some history on the moped. After the shoot, I posted one photo, and we realized that Andy who first bought the moped went to school and ran at Geneva with Dawn. I know Andy but didn’t connect the dots day of since I was too busy taking pictures – so thanks Andy for the great find!

Gorgeous light, gorgeous couple I serious love all of these photos and hope you do too. I went to school with Dawn’s twin sister Dana and ran with her in college, so for anyone else from Houghton who is wondering where they recognize Dawn from – that’s probably it. Actually I have to admit I felt like I knew Dawn since I knew Dana, and had to keep reminding myself that I really didn’t! I’m sorry Dawn. We finished off the session with something personal that both Dawn and David enjoy – running! I loved the idea of a few running photos and let’s be honest runners – how many good photos do you have? Either you have a crazy looking leg, look half dead during a race, or are beaming with a post-race sweat. Those are all important photos, but I wouldn’t mind having some normal looking ones as well – how about you?

I had a great time with you guys and can’t wait for your wedding! enjoy everyone and can’t wait to hear if you like these as much as I do.

Today is so rainy and gray out here in Virginia, it looks nothing like these photos taken on Sunday. I’m just about to make some hot cocoa or cider and continue editing Maretta and Paul’s wedding, but first let me introduce you to the Keeler’s. As you can see the weather was wonderful and perfect for the mini session I did with their family of four. The girls were full of energy – as they should be – and so we spent most of the time playing on the swings. Playing and pictures are a good combination. It’s probably the easiest way for kids to feel comfortable and be relaxed in front of the camera, which of course is key.

Don’t you love their pink shoes? Adorable. It was even more fun to shoot this session because I just recently got a new lens – the 50mm 1.2. It’s a gem, but definitely something to practice with. The depth of focus can be so shallow you really have to be spot on. So what I’m trying to say is that I really want more families to photograph! So, if you live in Harrisonburg or the surrounding area, contact me during the month of November for 50% off portrait sessions. You can use the contact form on the blog to get in touch and look forward to hearing from you!

It was the peak of autumn in Virginia when I met up with Christie and Kyle for their engagement session in Harrisonburg. With the days counting down to their December wedding, it was also the perfect time for me to get to know them a little and have them feel comfortable being in front of the camera. I had such a great time and I’m pretty sure they did too :) We started out at the JMU arboretum and I can’t even believe how gorgeous the colors where there – these photos only had minor enhancements, it really is natural!

The weeping willow in the arboretum was gorgeous from two different locations – with completely different feels as well.

After our second stop in downtown Harrisonburg, having fun with the textures of city walls and seeing some of Kyle’s favorite haunts from his days at JMU, we headed just a few miles out of the city for wide open spaces. Once again, it was incredibly scenic.

I love this last one! So, how do you like Harrisonburg – not bad for an engagement session, or a new hometown! There’s lots of interesting places to explore and I like the mix of city and country; it doesn’t take long to drive from one to the other. I can’t wait to bring you more from where I’m at as I continue to get established in Virginia so of course, stay tuned. Kyle and Christie I can’t wait for the wedding – see you soon!