Claypool Photography

It's Moving Day!

2010-05-10T19:18:00.002-04:00

As I read today's date aloud, I realize that on this day 14 years ago I made a big move. I moved into my very first apartment. It was a day full of emotion, anticipation and boxes and...tequila. Today I find myself moving once again...only this time it's without boxes...or even the tequila (okay, maybe a glass of red wine), but still a little anticipation and emotion. My blog is moving. As of today, my blog will reside at www.heatherclaypool.com.

Blogger has been a great place for me for the last three years, but just like that day 14 years ago I feel like I'm ready for a change. So, click on over and even bookmark the new site if you like! There's loads of great stuff coming in the near future... A Facebook Page, new and improved galleries... Come visit...and then stay a while!

I'll look for you there!

Home

2010-04-30T08:01:00.040-04:00

For the majority of my life, I have called Columbus home. Sure my time here has been peppered with little moves to Florida, Mississippi, Michigan, Kentucky and Georgia...but I always come back home to Columbus. I realized the other day that I've seldom actually seen our city. We drive through it a lot...usually on our way somewhere else, but I couldn't remember the last time I parked the car and just took a walk through downtown. So yesterday I did just that! Around lunch time I packed up my camera, a few lenses and memory cards and went on safari! I looked for things downtown that I had never noticed before, and was I ever surprised by what I didn't know!

These rows of pinwheels were on display in the front lawn of COSI

Just a few blocks away..

On a bumper of a car parked at North Bank Park...

For this set, I wanted to get a perspective on the city that was more than just "looking up". When I parked in a garage next to the Leveque tower, I found the perspective I was looking for...

I fell in love with the juxtaposition of the old against the new here...

A Columbus landmark...

Again, I just adore these old buildings downtown. Years ago, the people that built this building probably thought it was pretty big... wonder what they would think if they could see the skyscrapers of today...

It looked like one building was literally coming out of another...

One of the things I was amazed I had never known about our city was the war memorial. On the Statehouse lawn there are two walls with inscriptions of letters written home by soldiers and sailors from various wars... Some of them very nearly brought a tear to my eye...

But this one made me laugh a little...

"Why yes, I do shoot Canon..."

Statues in front of the Statehouse. The one on the right is William McKinley, but I wasn't able to find out who the two on the left were...

As I was headed back to my car, I spotted a man sitting on the Statehouse steps in a Union Soldiers uniform. That didn't quite go with the 21st century I thought we were in, so I asked him what it was all about. Turns out he was taking part in a sort of Civil War re-enactment surrounding the death of Abraham Lincoln. 145 years ago yesterday, President Abraham Lincoln's body was lying in state right here in our Statehouse. The entire statehouse was set up exactly as it had been on that day...complete with Mary Todd veiled in black wandering around the casket (a little creepy...but cool)!

Some views from the Old Post Office which I believe is now a Law Firm. I can remember going to the Ohio Theater and being terrified of this building! Now, I'm able to marvel at it's beauty...

I loved the "stair stepped" effect of this shot... along with the browns and blues...

Paul, one of "Lincoln's Guards"...

The rotunda inside the Statehouse... I still couldn't get over the fact that after spending essentially my entire life here I had never set foot inside the place!

McKinley looking out on progress...

Another fun view from a mirrored vestibule on Broad St. looking back at the Statehouse...

Fire escape on the side of the LeVeque Tower...

So this is my backyard, and all of these places have been here just waiting to be discovered. No doubt there are more, but this was a really fun start!

/div>

The Reason I'm Here...

2010-04-19T14:30:00.005-04:00

My daughter had a friend over to play the other day. That's not out of the ordinary, but what caught me off guard was hearing her tell her friend as they went down the stairway, the names of all the ancestors and relatives we have photos of on our wall. "That's my Aunt and Uncle", she said. "That's me when I was a baby, and that's my Great-Great-Grandma and Grandpa". And it hit me that though they had never met (I had never even met her), she felt connected to her because of that photograph! The fact that we have a photo of her on her wedding day proudly displayed in our home is a testament to the tremendous power of photography.

I remember when my grandmother found that photograph in an old trunk in her attic. Our whole family sat in awe as we unearthed treasure after treasure from the time capsule! We found sketches Grandma had done when she was in art school, pieces of her wedding gown (sadly, the moths had gotten to it before we did), and then the photograph. There was my grandmother's mother on her wedding day circa 1915 with her new husband seated beside her. She wore a simple, cotton gown with white gloves and a cap veil. Like I said...I had never met her, but I saw her features in my own face and I felt an instant connection to my family's history just like my daughter does now.

When we think about weddings, we think about things like schedules, locations, menus, flowers and yes, we think about photos too. But when we think about the photos...we don't always think about the fact that those photos will be seen by future generations. Someday in the distant future, a little girl may see her features in the photo of a bride I photographed last weekend. A woman she never knew, but will feel a connection with nonetheless. And that...is the reason I'm here.

The photos in this collage are more photos from my family's collection. Clockwise from the top left: An unknown family member from around the time of the First World War (notice his uniform..he was in the Kaiser's Army). My Aunt Marty (with her twin sister, Bertie as her Maid of Honor), The photo described in the post, my Great-Grandmother, Cecelia and my Great-Grandfather, Julius). Next, one of my favorites...my Great Aunt Albina and Uncle Walter and their Roaring 20's wedding! My husband's parents (who will celebrate their 45th anniversary this year). And the last one, yeah, I know it's not a wedding photo...but it's one I adore! That's my grandmother in front of the flag at a 4th of July picnic sometime in the early 20's.

Eddie's First Communion...

2010-04-19T13:36:00.013-04:00

Last Sunday we celebrated a milestone in our son's life...his first communion.

For me, the mere mention of first communion always conjures up images from one of my favorite books, Angela's Ashes. If you want a good laugh, you have to read this excerpt from the book depicting little Frankie McCourt's first communion!

Anyway, on Sunday there was an "official" photographer taking portraits of all the children before things got started, but I wanted something different...a more "real-life" approach. Here's what I came up with...

Here he is offering us the sign of peace now!

Of course, Little Miss Emma had to get a pic too!

The Workshop!

2010-04-13T21:30:00.027-04:00

This weekend was the weekend Kevin Keefer had been planning since about right after Christmas. Months of planning, phone calls to vendors, decisions on content, location, models...it all came together in one amazing workshop!

The event was held at the beautiful Pinnacle Golf Club right here in Grove City. The day started out with a presentation by Kevin and concluded with a model shoot. The whole day was a lot of work, but it was so much fun! Here are few photos to highlight the event!

Just as a side note... I don't think I've ever had a more difficult time deciding which images to post on my blog from a given event. Our models, Kira and Jason were phenomenal. I knew they would be great, after all Kira's a friend of mine and I knew her personality would shine through. But what I didn't know (and even they didn't know when they agreed to model for us months ago) was that they would get engaged just one week before the workshop! That made the photos even more amazing, as we were able to capture real emotions and real expressions from them!

Here's Kevin getting the day started talking about how each photographer needs to discover who they are and why they shoot...

The gowns for the shoot were graciously donated by Bella Laccio bridal in uptown Westerville...This shop has it all! Private fitting parties, champagne...everything that makes a once-in-a-lifetime experience even more unforgettable!

Kira's hair was done by the amazing Jackie Foltz, owner of Studio 31 in Marysville...

I took a bit of a risk during the model shoot and shot in some ways that I typically haven't in the past... Like with reflections...

Through participants arms...

And because the gowns were sample gowns (and not altered specifically for Kira), we had to use clips. Most of the time I cropped them out in-camera, but for this one...I wanted to show a little behind-the-scenes and that meant showing the clips and all!!

Yeah, there's not a darn thing in focus with this one (except for maybe the lens itself). I had changed a setting on my camera, aimed and fired without even looking in the viewfinder... I thought it was funny...though Courtney may hate me for it!

Again...a bit more of a risk for me. A not-so-typical groom's portrait...

You've got to love a man who can hold his lady's flowers. The bouquet and boutonniere were provided by Petals and Leaves in Powell...exquisite!!!

This was a favorite!

I loved the shadows and the expression in Kira's eyes here...

Another behind-the-scenes shot...This is what a workshop is all about! Each participant got their turn at posing our couple...

And I saved my personal favorite for last! Something about the reflective glass, the tree all in bloom and Kira's natural smile...It just says it all!

A big thank you goes out to all the vendors who helped with the day, to our gorgeous model couple, to Kevin for putting this workshop on, and to all the participants who came! Thanks for making this a fantastic day!

New Children's Site...Ready to Roll!

2010-04-13T15:51:00.000-04:00

Well the time has finally come for my new children's site to go live! I've had the domain for a few months and I've been slowly working on adding more photos and I'm thrilled to announce that my new children's site is really ready to go now!

I'm now offering in-studio as well as on-location sessions, and I'm really excited to offer some new products and services to the lineup! Children's Fantasy sessions, Baby's First Year, Baptisms and Dedications...Lots of great stuff!

So, why not head over to Claypool Kids and check it all out!

Megan | Columbus Children's Photography

2010-04-09T09:59:00.017-04:00

Spring is a strange thing here in Ohio. We get teased with temperatures in the 70's on the first day of Spring and then two weeks later...it snows! Such was the case with my recent session with Megan! Megan and her mom met me out at Homestead Park in Hilliard for a few pics! Here are just a few of my faves!

I loved the bow detail on her girly-girl dress!! And the nails to match! I just couldn't get over how we were there in short sleeves with snow on the ground...

Reflective Megan...

Turns out she loves to dance, so I grabbed a little series while she got her groove on!

Oh, Spring!

2010-04-07T19:42:00.005-04:00

Yes, I have tons of editing to do yet...but I couldn't resist heading outside to capture these signs of spring...

Lexi

2010-04-02T10:38:00.014-04:00

Meet Lexi!

Lei's mom, Katy brought her out to Inniswoods Metro Park for my First Day of Spring session. From the get-go, I could tell she really enjoyed having her picture taken! She posed, she smiled...she was an absolute blast to work with!

Here are a few of my favorites!

Children's Photography at Inniswoods...Henry

2010-03-30T09:07:00.015-04:00

There's no better way to spend the first day of spring than by being outside! March 20th, I got to spend the day outside at Inniswoods Metro Park photographing some of the city's cutest kids! Over the next few days I'll be featuring those photos, starting with one adorable three year old...Henry!

Right off the bat, Henry was a gentleman! He said "hello", and immediately took my hand and started leading me around the park! "Shy" is just not a part of this child's vocabulary!

Here are a few of my favorites from the session...

I loved the morning light with this one...

While it's always important to photograph children's faces (they change so fast from month to month when they're this little), I'm also a big fan of photographing children when they are engrossed in something. I've blogged about this before, but children are fascinating little people...and to explore the world through their eyes is like seeing the whole world again for the first time. So when Henry sat down by the water, I couldn't resist... I don't know if it was the frogs, the fish, the foliage or just the water itself...but something about this spot held his attention...

Same here...he's an explorer for sure!

Henry, thank you so much for bringing your mom and dad out on what turned out to be such a beautiful first day of spring!

Kelly

2010-03-22T09:34:00.024-04:00

I first met Kelly a little over a year ago. I had the opportunity to photograph her beautiful family in the newly fallen snow near Hoover Reservoir, and had a blast! Now Kelly has started her own Personal Training Business in Westerville, so she asked me to come by and grab a few photos of her for her new website (which I hope to be able to share once it's up and running)!

Truth be told, Kelly can't take anything but a fantastic picture...so it was hard to narrow down the favorites!

If you're in Westerville (and an early riser), she teaches an early (and I do mean early) class at a great studio called The Yoga Factory. While I was there, I shot a couple photos of the studio itself just for fun!

It's That Time of Year!

2010-03-19T09:06:00.003-04:00

Graduation is just around the corner and for High School Juniors, that means one step closer to Senior Year! With that, comes Senior Pictures and this year I'm offering some pretty big specials for current Juniors who are interested in being Senior Reps for the 2010-2011 school year!

Give me a call or send me an e-mail to get all the details on a fun, one-of-a-kind session that's all about YOU!

If you're in the Grove City area, stop by and say "Hello" at the upcoming Taste of Grove City too! Hope to see you there!

Jamie and Heath, Coral Cove Maternity Session!

2010-03-05T21:44:00.023-05:00

A maternity session is always special, but last weekend's maternity was extra special for me. It was a session for my brother and his wife as they await the arrival of their first baby (and my nephew) in beautiful South Florida.

It was a whirlwind trip, but we had time to squeeze in dinner at the always amazing Guanabanas, a trip to the Atlantic Theater to see the improv comedy troupe, The Jove, a baby shower, Heath's homemade Pad Thai, his excerpts from What to Expect When You're Expected (hilarious) and finally a trip to the Jupiter Lighthouse and Coral Cove beach for some belly shots.

Here they are against the backdrop of the Jupiter Lighthouse...

You can just make out the lighthouse in this next one, but what I loved about it was the little heart carved into the tree just beside Jamie's shoulder...

And speaking of hearts...

A quick clothing change and we were off to the beach!

This one needs a little explanation. The story goes something like this... Upon seeing the ultrasound picture, a friend declared that the baby looked like a chicken nugget. The name well...it kind of stuck. And now, Heath and Jamie affectionately call the baby just that... "Nugget". While I was searching for the perfect shower gift, I found this onesie online and couldn't pass it up!

One of my favorites...

And another fave...

Heath and Jamie, it was an honor to photograph your wedding nearly four years ago and it's an honor to shoot your growing family. You are both going to be awesome parents. With you by his side, little Nugget will grow to be strong, smart, healthy and with one wicked sense of humor!

Congratulations, and you better call the moment he makes his presence known!

Just Jack!

2010-02-24T17:03:00.016-05:00

February in Ohio means some degree of uncertainty when it comes to planning a portrait session. Sure, you can always go into the studio. Sure you can place a few props in front of a child and see what they do with them but when you know me and you know the way I shoot you know that I have other things in mind. Last week for Jack's shoot, I suggested we go over to Franklin Park Conservatory. It's truly one of my favorite spots to shoot...especially in the winter! Where else can you go when it's 25 degrees outside and see palm trees?

Jack was a natural in front of the camera, check him out...

What I remembered just before the shoot, but after we had decided on the location was that Jack's mom (and my friend, Melissa) and Dad were married at the conservatory... I grabbed this shot right next to where Melissa said their cake had been...

I have always loved this Chihuly piece...and I love Jack's expression in front of it! Kids are so much fun to shoot simply because you just never know what they're going to do next!

Jack, thanks so much for being such an awesome picture taker! And Melissa, thanks so much for letting him do it! :)

Coming Soon...Jack!

2010-02-22T15:45:00.005-05:00

Alicia and Pete...Photo Rewind!

2010-02-16T11:38:00.008-05:00

Going through some old prints and paperwork, I realized that I shot my first "official" wedding seven years ago this weekend. Alicia and Pete were married at St. Gregory Orthodox church and held an intimate reception back at the Bride's family home. It was an exciting day for me, but one that had me more than just a little nervous too! Armed with my Mamiya 645 medium format camera and a Minolta 35mm packed a roll of black and white, I ended up with some memorable images. Here's a peek at some that I scanned in from film...

Happy Anniversary, Alicia and Pete!

SOOC vs. Final Prints

2010-02-15T18:23:00.012-05:00

This is a topic that has been discussed since the dawn of digital photography (and before), but it's one that's worth revisiting because it comes up so often. These days, it's customary for most photographers to provide a disk of images. But much like a proof book from the film days, these images may still need a little refining before they become what I call "Wall-Worthy".

Warming up skin tones and removal of distracting elements are just two of the ways that images taken straight out of the camera (or "SOOC") can be enhanced for a final print. Most of the time the result is subtle, but worth while...

And while any mega mart can take a color image and make it black and white, a professionally printed black and white print will have more depth and contrast...

Of Valentines and Ski Lodges...

2010-02-12T13:26:00.005-05:00

Years ago I “met” my husband on a skiing trip. I say it with quotes because I had already met him…he was my friend’s brother. But it was on this trip that something shifted and I began to see him in a whole new way. This post isn’t about that, though. It’s about the fact that on that trip, I never skied. His sister and I hung out in the hotel staying warm and doing spa-type things while all the boys went and did crazy things in the snow. And so last week as we headed to my husband’s company ski trip at Mad River Mountain, Isaac commented to me, “So, this many years after that trip I FINALLY get to ski with you?” Before you start thinking this is a post about how I met my husband, let me tell you it's not! It's a post about me… and skis. Spoiler alert: We don’t get along.

I was ready! I had my special snow pants, a warm coat, and gloves. Had my hair and makeup lookin’ good (hey, from what I’ve seen on E!, and Access Hollywood you’re supposed to look good on the slopes). I grabbed a pair of rental boots and skis, poles…the whole deal and was ready to rock! I smiled at Isaac and had a vision of what fun we would have. I don’t think I’m delusional, but the picture I had in my head of how things would go looked something like this…

In reality, it was more like this…

Skis I learned, are not just big shoes. It’s tricky to get back up after you’ve fallen down and another news flash…it was cold! Not just cold, but blizzard cold. The wind blew and the snow stuck to my cheeks causing a brain freeze that would have made Ben and Jerry envious. Now, it’s important to note that I didn’t want to take lessons. I was there to spend time with Isaac and have fun. I didn’t have time for “lessons”, so I headed for the hills. About halfway into our ride on the ski lift, I realized we were still going “up”, and that eventually I would have to find my way “down”. I swallowed hard and pretended to be cool with it, but inside…my heart was pounding. The lift let us off and I tucked my poles under my arms… “Whoooo hooo!” I yelled to Isaac in a scene reminiscent of What About Bob, “I’m skiing”! But that was just to the summit.

There were two trails. The one to my left looked intimidating, tree-lined and kinda steep. The one to my right looked better. It was wider and not so steep. I headed that direction just in time to see the headlights of the groomer coming up the hill. Someone got out and stuck a sign in the ground that read “Closed”. If tears wouldn’t have frozen to my face, I would have cried right then and there. To the left I went. It wasn’t 10 feet before I fell, and there was Isaac to pick me up. 20 more feet and I fell again. Again, he picked me up. The pattern repeated pretty much the whole way down the hill and I realized maybe I should have taken that lesson after all. While I tried the kiddie hill, and then that trail that was to the right (it finally opened), I spent most of the rest of the day in the lodge sipping warm beverages. Not wanting to be a wet blanket to Isaac’s fun, I told him to keep skiing…I’d be fine. At one point, I did venture back outside…to the kiddie hill…by myself. And as I slowly descended, another skier rushed past me out of nowhere, stopped in front of me and smiled. It was Isaac. He had seen me from out on another trail and chased me down just to see how I was doing.

This Valentine’s Day, I really don’t really care about flowers, or cards or chocolate (well, maybe chocolate). I care about the fact that I’m blessed to have the most amazing husband who doesn’t care if I can ski or not. He’ll wait for me, he’ll pick me up when I’m down, and he’ll look out for me…always. A girl can’t ask for more than that.

Wishing all of you out there, that kind of Valentine’s Day.

A New Wedding Destination in Grove City...Grand Oaks!

2010-02-04T21:44:00.015-05:00

It's not every day I get to see the groundbreaking of a new wedding venue...and it's certainly not every day that that venue ends up being right here in Grove City! Grand Oaks is a new event center set to open this fall. You may not be able to tell right now, but they'll have a beautiful ballroom, reception area and a garden with a gazebo for outdoor ceremonies! In a word, it promises to be fantastic! I had a the unique opportunity to catch a few shots of the actual groundbreaking...

The heavy equipment is poised and ready to dig!

Back at the builders', we were all treated to a scale mock-up of the building...

Can't wait to see this building progress! For more information, check out the Grand Oaks website!

Workshop!!!

2010-02-01T08:28:00.002-05:00

When I first got started in photography and knew I wanted to get serious about pursuing it as more than just a hobby, I knew I needed guidance. I had books, I had some experience and had taken a few classes offered here and there. The problem with the classes was that they were either too basic (“how to properly hold a camera”) or they were too broad in their content. I wanted to shoot weddings, but the course material always seemed to be geared toward product photography or inanimate objects (i.e. spatulas…really.)

Thank goodness for the workshop. I went to my first seminars and workshops a few years back and felt like I walked away with a wealth of information…stuff I could really put into practice and use right away! Not only were the workshops great in terms of content, but I got to see new products and technologies and get to know other photographers…other people who had been where I was. I’ll admit to being star struck by a few of them...they're like celebrities in photography world...rock stars! I soon found though, that these were real people who had experiences and resources to share and that, I found remarkable despite the fact that I often had to drive great distances to get to them (Hellooooo, Orlando). Sure these workshops cost a little money, but I came to realize that I wasn't just paying for a workshop, but rather investing in myself for a long-term return.

So it’s particularly exciting to think that Kevin Keefer is going to be putting on what is sure to be a phenomenal workshop this spring, right here in Columbus! Space is limited to just 20 participants, but it’s going to be a day full of great information, a model shoot at a beautiful location and a chance to meet other local photographers! I, for one...can't wait!

Check it out, and reserve your seat! See you there!

Mmmmm, Cake!

2010-01-28T17:25:00.006-05:00

In Roman times, newly married couples would have a loaf of bread broken over their heads to bring them luck and prosperity. Thousands of years later, that tradition has given way to the wedding cake! Layers and layers of confection and true art that is usually less messy than bread being broken over one's head!

Check out some of these amazing cakes!

Top left: This Fourth of July masterpiece complete with festoons and fondant swags was created for Brent and Leaha's south Florida wedding by Jan from Cake Creations by Jan. Top right: Scrumptious Crumbs made this bejeweled, ribboned cake for Sara and Chuck's wedding. Bottom right: La Bella Torta created this monogrammed design for Amanda and Jon's wedding in April. Bottom left: Misty and Kenny chose a floral cake from Linda's Cakes.

Top left: Celeste and Adam got to cut into this beautiful cake with lavender accents by Dodie Tipple. Top right: Golden Delight made this tiered tower for Leigh-Ann and Samer's wedding in May. Bottom right: Bella Luna designed and baked this one-of-a-kind confection for Katie and Eric's weddiing in October. Bottom left: Amanda and Steven chose a three-tiered, ribboned design from Alice's Piece of Cake.

Flowers...

2010-01-27T15:35:00.011-05:00

Flowers! Who doesn't love flowers? They're part of what makes a wedding a wedding, and part of each bride's individual style that make her day so unique! Check these out...

Top left: Orchids and Ivy created this masterpiece for Celeste's September wedding to Adam at Bryn Du Mansion. Top right: The orange calla lilly creation that Bloomtastic fashioned for Amanda's wedding to Steve. Bottom right: Katie's one-of-a-kind bouquet was made by All in Bloom. Bottom right: Bloomtastic's gorgeous bouquet for Leigh-Ann. Top left: Sarah's red rose, and feathered bouquet by Costco. Top right: Rosary detail on Sarah's bouquet. Bottom left: Heather's carried a sunflower-inspired arrangement by Conell's Maple Lee for her June wedding to Jon. Bottom right: Amanda's gorgeous hand-made bouquet of ivory roses, white ranunclulus and star of Bethlehem (yeah, she made it herself...you can check out the details here.)
We can't forget about the boys! Top left: Adam's boutonniere (Orchids and Ivy), Top right: Samer's rose was a perfect match for Leigh-Ann's bouquet above (Bloomtastic). Bottom left: All in Bloom created this unique piece for Eric's lapel. Bottom right: Jon's boutonniere for his wedding to Heather at Pinnacle Golf Club (Connel's Mapple Lee).

And how about bridesmaids? Featured here are (clockwise from top left) Orchids and Ivy, All in Bloom, Leaha's handmade daisies with nautical detail, Costco, and Bloomtastic's calla lillies.

The flowers don't end after the ceremony!

Stay tuned for featured cakes!

Courage

2010-01-25T15:01:00.002-05:00

I have written before that I knew I wanted to be a photographer at a pretty early age. At just 12 years of age, I could see it…literally. I would close my eyes and see myself flying over a herd of wild zebras on the savannah shooting them as they sped along (maybe there were just too many National Geographics hanging around at our house), There were times I would invite my friends over to play dress up, and then “model shoot” (seriously…I still have a few of those shots laying around somewhere).

There were a few years between then and the time I graduated from high school though, And even more before I graduated from college. There were times that vision of me as a photographer wasn’t quite so clear anymore. “Be safe”, other voices told me. So the plan of being a photographer got interrupted from time to time while I completed my degree in that quote-unquote “safe” field. But it seemed like every time I would let myself drift away from the camera, something would end up leading me right back to it…And I am so glad it did.

I do believe that we are all given our special gifts in life, and our job is to figure out what it is and pursue it. Only when we do that will be ever achieve pure happiness. It sounds so obvious and maybe a little cliché, but it is the absolute truth. Believing that is the easy part, having the courage to go out on that limb and actually do it, well…that’s a little harder. Like jumping from a high dive, courage to pursue your passion takes a lot of deep breaths, stepping back and looking at the big picture, and asking yourself some really hard questions. But in the end, we take that plunge; fell the rush of the jump and the splash of that cool water that is justification that we have done the right thing.

Aside from the love of my husband and family, photography is what moves me, it’s what makes me breathe. My job is capture emotions, people, events and the little glances that make up life…and it just doesn’t get any better than that!

At the risk of sharing way too much here, I am posting this photo almost against my better judgment. I found it during a recent trip to my Dad’s place and it really summed up the paths both my younger brother and I chose. It’s a photo I took complete with a blue construction paper backdrop (too look like the sky. Remember…age 12) of a scale-model of the space shuttle my brother made out of modeling clay. He is now…you guessed it, an engineer. If there’s a message in this, it’s “Parents: Encourage your little ones to pursue their dreams at the earliest possible moment”. Because they may just know exactly where they’re headed.

Baby Blake

2010-01-13T18:14:00.017-05:00

Kathy and Tom got their Christmas present a little early this past year. Baby Blake arrived December 19th! His parents are clearly over the moon, and he is just a tiny bundle of CUTE! Check out a few pics from Blake's first photo shoot!

A little Daddy time...

He's so aware of everything going on around him...

A little time with Mommy...

And the new family...

Who can resist all the baby details?? Baby blankets, baby booties, baby hands...

Baby feet...

And then he fell asleep...

And one more moment with the new Mom and Dad...

Kathy and Tom, I can't thank you enough for having me there to document not just your wedding day years ago, but to chronicle the beginings of your beautiful family. Congratulations!

A New Addition to Our Family...

2010-01-03T15:46:00.007-05:00

No...not THAT kind of addition!

This kind is the four-legged variety! It's been about five years since we had a pet in the house and while I must admit it was nice to not have to worry about cat hair on my wool coat or letting the dog out on an absolutely frigid morning, I also missed things like the purr of a happy cat (my grandfather used to tell me was the cat's motor), and the warmth that an animal can bring to cold feet in the wintertime! The kids were wanting a pet to play with and take care of (it's never too early to start teaching about responsibility), so when I heard about this kitten needing a home (and the fact that it was going to go to the shelter...aka kitty prison) my heart melted a little. Isaac wasn't completely sold on the idea. "You'll never see me overjoyed to have a cat", he said. But guess who was playing with that kitten the first night we brought him home? :)

So I'm pleased to introduce Leonardo Pepperjack Claypool, Leo for short. Yes...the kids named him.

Goodbye to 2009, Welcome 2010!

2009-12-30T16:40:00.006-05:00

So begins the time of year when I do a LOT of scribbling when it comes to dates. And this year is going to be particularly tough since we're changing two digits instead of just one!

As I sit back and contemplate the things I'd like to accomplish in the coming year, I also like be thankful for the year that's passed. 2009 has been an incredible year in so many ways...

Personally, I'm blessed with an incredible family... two children that amaze me and make me laugh every day, a husband who drives me places I can just as well drive myself just so we can spend the extra time together.

Professionally, I get to work with the most awesome couples on the planet. They make my job so much fun, and their smiles make me smile! You can check out those smiles in this little slideshow I put together...The Year in Wedding Photos!

Some fun facts about 2009 weddings:

Most popular bouquet color: A tie between red and white
Average number of attendants: 5
Average number of tiers in a wedding cake: 3
Wedding that took place the furthest from my home office: Brent and Leaha's wedding in Boynton Beach, Florida
Wedding that took place the closest to my home office: Heather and John's wedding right here in Grove City!

Thank you to all my '09 brides and grooms! May 2010 bring you much happiness! :)

A Very Claypool Christmas...

2009-12-26T20:34:00.002-05:00

Yeah, my family may shoot me for this, but I couldn't resist.

Initially, I hadn't brought my camera to my family's Christmas Eve gathering. Initially, I thought "what did we ever do with all the pictures we took from Christmas last year"?

Then, as the kids and grownups alike were unwrapping gifts and hugging and laughing...I realized I wanted those smiles on camera! So here are just a few of the faces and smiles that make me so happy to have as my family...

Merry Christmas!

Stephanie and Brice...Married!

2009-12-15T10:15:00.010-05:00

Every season has it's own beauty. And what could be more beautiful than a wedding set against the backdrop of Christmas? Stephanie and Brice's wedding was just that. With a wedding at the beautiful First Congregational Church in downtown Columbus and a reception at the Vault...their wedding was everything you would expect it to be. With accents of reds and greens, wreaths and trees...the only thing missing was snow! Here are a few favorites from their day...don't forget to check out the slideshow at the end!

The architecture at the church was breathtaking...

Courtney Mason second shot with me...here's a shot she got from the balcony during the ceremony...

After the ceremony...

..and a favorite from the first dance.

Congrats, Stephanie and Brice!

It's My Birthday, but YOU get the gifts!

2009-12-06T21:43:00.002-05:00

I've been meaning to post this since Friday, but a busy weekend kept me from being able to do it until today. Yes, my birthday was Friday (and no, I'm not telling how old)! :) To celebrate, I'm announcing a special offer good through the end of the year... Book any package before 2010 and take advantage of a free upgrade! Choose from any optional upgrade and add it to your wedding package for nothing (zip, zilch, nada)...a $200 value!

Choose from Parent Books, Engagement or Day After Sessions, Slideshow DVD's...any upgrade option on the list!

But the offer's only good through the remainder of '09, so act fast! It's my birthday gift to you!

Kathy and Tom are Having a Baby!

2009-12-02T23:08:00.016-05:00

I'll never forget Kathy and Tom's wedding! Married in July (at the same church, but the same Priest as Isaac and me) of 2007 with a reception at the ever-awesome COSI, it was one memorable day! Thanks to referrals from Kathy, I've run in to her and Tom at a couple weddings over the past couple years and it's been like running into an old friend. So needless to say, when she called me a couple months ago to tell me she and Tom were expecting a child in December, I nearly got chills!

Last weekend they invited me to their beautiful home to catch a few pics of the parents to be as they await the little one's arrival. Here are a few favorites!

Congratulations Tom and Kathy! Can't wait to meet the new little addition!

O, Christmas Tree!

2009-11-30T16:39:00.019-05:00

Every year I find myself coveting. As in the "Thou Shalt Not" kind. I covet people's Christmas trees. My friends put up the most elaborate trees with matching ornaments. Some are blue and cream, some are gold and red, silver and gold, blue and silver...you get the idea. Some have themed trees. My sister in law once had an M&M tree that was so cool! My mom plans to do a "Blues" themed tree this year. One friend puts up a Penn State tree in one room, and a Disney tree in another. And all I have is this one tree, with ornaments that are a mishmash of years and Christmases gone by. And while I may covet the neatness of other's trees, the fact is that I do love my tree. Each Thanksgiving weekend, I look forward to putting on the Christmas music, rearranging the furniture and unpacking all the ornaments. Each ornament brings back memories, and each memory is something very special. I don't think I'd get that half as much if I suddenly invested in all matching ornaments.

Here is our tree...
And here's a closer look at the ornaments that make it so special.

This is a stuffed "Mountie" that my mother brought back after a trip to Canada. She was traveling quite a bit for work back then and had started picking up little bears for Eddie everywhere she went. We have bears now from Japan, Australia, Singapore, London and of course, Germany.

This isn't an ornament at all. It's Amy...from the Holly Hobby collection. It was mine when I was a little girl. My parents used to put it in their tree to take up some of the empty space toward the back...I kept the tradition...

A friend I used to work with made this ornament for me when I left the company to go to Nursing School full-time. Every year when I unpacked this particular ornament I would feel a little bit of a sting, given that I never finished. I changed gears in a major way, so last year I told my husband I wasn't going to put it up any more. He said I should put it up anyway. It's funny how life moves along and sometimes things come full-circle...more on that in a later post. :)

"Our First Christmas"...as a married couple, Christmas 2000

From another one of Mom's travels...this one from Holland (the windmill really moves)!

This one has been a little bit of a joke between my husband and me. We call it "Santa in the Avocodo". Why? Really, why is Santa in an Avocodo? And why do we keep putting it on the tree?

From Emma's First Christmas...

Another one that isn't really an ornament. Back when Isaac was taking flying lessons, I gave hime the gift of more flight time (Most flying schools and airports will give gift certificates...if you're looking for a gift for the pilot on your list). Rather than just giving him the gift certificate, I wrote it all out on a ribbon attached to this little plane...you know, like a banner... It became an ornament!

From Eddie's First Christmas...

This was from the tree we put up when I was still living at home. Mom and Dad gave my brother and me both a few ornaments from the "home" colection when we moved out.

This one, well...it really has no earthly business being on a tree. What is it anyway? A gypsy wagon? Oh well, it's ours and we like it!

Some people bronze their kids' baby shoes. Not us! Those too, have become ornaments for us!

Isaac made this one years and years ago! Well, he painted it anyway...I don't think he was using a router and saw at that age...

And this one commemorates Isaac's proud service in the US Air Force. Something that has shaped his life and one of the many, many reasons I adore him.

Thanks for sharing a little bit of my Christmas preparation with me! Stay tuned as I document my Christmas shopping adventures (just kidding)! :)

Caden Turns 1!

2009-11-28T21:00:00.015-05:00

Remember baby Caden? Last year right around Christmas, I snapped a few photos of the newborn Caden and his parents. Naturally I was thrilled when his mom e-mailed me and asked me to do his One Year pics! We spent some time in the studio and let Caden kind of have his run of the place... Here are a few favorites...

Can you believe how he's grown???

This age is always so much fun to photograph. Their smiles are so natural and they are so playful...you kind of can't help but smile yourself!

I love this one...particularly the "Oooooh" expression on his face!

Check out those blue eyes...

And when we were done, Caden knew it...

Hapyy Birthday Caden!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-25T13:05:00.003-05:00

My wish...is that no one is reading this post right now! Seriously, everyone should take a day away from the computer and all things "tech" today to take full advantage of the time they have to spend with their families. Go enjoy some great food, parades and football...and if you remember my post from last year, maybe even sing a few songs from The Sound of Music!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Little Miss Brenlynn...

2009-11-20T20:09:00.012-05:00

Brenlynn and I met last year. I had the pleasure of watching her during the day for a few months last fall. She and Emma hit it off and she was an absolute delight to have around. She just celebrated her third birthday, so it was time to get some new pics! She came in last weekend with Mom and Dad for a session full of dress up and smiles, and a playdate with Eddie and Emma when it was all done! Here are a few favorites...

Tell us how old you are again, Brenlynn... :)

One of the cutest little Buckeyes ever!

And of course, Mom and Dad are Buckeyes too!

All giggles!

I tried to talk her into helping us string our Christmas lights this year, but this was about all the further we got...

When we were done, she was still in all her dress-up finery and wanted to play outside with Eddie and Emma. I'm a big fan of natural light, so I had to run out there with her and grab just one more shot...

Baby Levi

2009-11-16T11:38:00.011-05:00

I got to meet Baby Levi on his 5 month birthday! It's always an honor for me to be invited back to photograph the child(ren) of a couple who's wedding I shot, and this was no exception! Patricia and Michael are amazing parents to this little bundle of joy!

Sometimes, little ones play shy for the camera, but not this little guy... He had his eye on me the whole time...

See what I mean??? Amazing parents!

He's a very focused little boy...

And FULL of personality!

Grandma was there and helped to hang his Christening gown for a couple shots...

This series features the baby ring that Patricia's father once wore...

And because Christmas is just around the corner...

This is one little boy who is very loved and adored!

Patricia, Michael, and Grandma... I can't thank you enough for having me back to photograph you little miracle! You truly have a beautiful family! Congrats!

Family Session at Battelle Darby Park!

2009-11-15T17:14:00.010-05:00

Fall is the perfect time for family portraits! A couple weekends ago, I met up with Do, Bob and their four girls at Battelle Darby Park for a fun session! Here are a couple favorites!

I loved the colors they picked to wear...

Dad's going to have his hands full with 4 beautiful daughters...

And what better way to finish up a fall session than with some old-fashioned leaf jumping/throwing??

Thank you Do, Bob and girls for a great afternoon!

What's Going On?

2009-11-13T10:45:00.009-05:00

Forgive me Blogger... it's been two weeks since my last post.

I've had some great family and baby sessions in the last couple weeks that I can't wait to post! I've also been working on album designs for all my amazing couples! It's a fun, creative process, but one that requires a lot of my undivided attention..Especially with a holiday deadline coming up! I hope to be back to my regularly scheduled blogging in a week or so, but in the meantime here are a few pics from a couple albums I'm working on...

From Steven and Amanda's wedding...

From Sara and Chuck's wedding...

From Katie and Eric's wedding...

And from Celeste and Adam's wedding...

Stay tuned for more!

Courtney and Doug...a German Village Session!

2009-11-01T12:00:00.025-05:00

Where do I even begin this post? Well, I met Courtney about a year ago when she was still new to Columbus...and a newlywed! She's a photographer too, and we immediately hit it off! Pretty soon, I was begging her to come and shoot weddings with me! She's got a fantastic personality and a great eye for detail and emotion...all things which make her an exceptional wedding photographer! She asked me to take a few pics of her and her husband, Doug and their "baby" Raisin so we met up at Schiller Park in German Village and had a blast!

Courtney really wanted a shot that featured Raisin...

That was genuine laughter...(I think they were laughing at me, but hey...whatever works! :)

LOVE the fall color in this one...

If you're doing graffiti in German Village, you had better know how to use your umlaut!

...And there were sooooo many more! Courney, Doug (and Raisin)...thank you so much for spending your afternoon with me! I can't wait to share the rest with you!

If you'd like to check out Courtney's website, click here!

Family Session at Creekside!

2009-10-23T10:29:00.014-04:00

About this time every year for the past three years, I'm reminded of why we moved from beautiful South Florida back here to Ohio...the fall colors! Come mid-March, I'm usually singing a different tune, but for right now I'm enjoying all that the autumn has to offer including family portraits amongst all that amazing color!

Last week I met up with two adorable little ladies and their parents at Creekside in Gahanna...

Audrey...

Isabelle (who's got a birthday coming up!)

The fam...

The Girls...

It had been a while since Mom and Dad had any photos taken of just the two of them, so we snuck one in while the girls weren't looking!

One of my favorites...

Another favorite!

Thanks for the opportunity to photograph your beautiful family! Can't wait to share the rest of the pics with you!

Dominic turns One!

2009-10-22T12:30:00.012-04:00

It's hard to believe that Dominic is one already. How fast a year goes by these days! Nothing we do as parents will ever slow down the process of our children growing up, but we can freeze time for a bit when we look back at the photos we take... Here are a few from Dominic's One Year session...

I know I've said before that my favorite photos of children are taken when they are unaware of the camera. Yeah, it's great to get them smiling with their big bright eyes staring right into the camera, but when something grabs a toddler's attention...that's just fascinating to me! Their little minds are so transfixed by something as simple as a blade of grass, how can you not marvel at that?

And finally...a walking shot!

Happy Birthday Dominic!

Katie and Eric...Married!

2009-10-06T14:57:00.016-04:00

Remember Katie and Eric? Well, they tied the knot last Saturday at the beautiful Overbrook Presbyterian church in Columbus. As you can see Katie was absolutely stunning...

Eric was no slouch either...

One of my faves of the two of them together...they look blissfully happy!

I walked into the reception and started to photograph all the details on the tables...linens, place settings, centerpieces, etc. and noticed their table numbers. I had seen them when they came in from the lab, but wasn't prepared for how cool they actually looked on the tables!

Brutus Buckeye made an appearance too! I've come to learn that he's a little like Santa Claus because while he was at Katie and Eric's wedding reception, he was also at the game in Indiana! Evidently, he was a hit with the fans!

There are so many more photos to share, so I've included a bunch of the highlights in the slideshow below! Check it out!

A big thank you goes out to Lisa Cleland who has been shooting with me for the past three weeks! You can check out her images here!

Katie, Eric and both of you families...thank you so much for having me along as a part of such a wonderful wedding celebration, and thank you for introducing me to a first dance song that is...well, tear-worthy, Joshua Radin's "Lovely Tonight".

Congratulations!

Laura and Rick

2009-10-03T10:16:00.004-04:00

I'm still a little behind on the old bloggity blog, but I'm getting there! Check out these photos from Laura and Rick's beautiful destination wedding! They tied the knot in the Hocking Hills at Ash Cave! They put so much thought into the day, and it was truly perfect!

Erin and Dustin...The Engagement!

2009-09-30T11:39:00.008-04:00

A couple Friday's ago, I took a little road trip out to beautiful Carroll, Ohio to photography one fantastic couple, Erin and Dustin. We travelled (via golf cart) around the grounds of the Pine Hill Golf Course getting as many portraits as we could while the sun was in the perfect spot! Here a few of my favorites from the session...

Thanks Erin and Dustin, for making the time for our fun session! And thanks for the golf cart ride, it was a blast! Can't wait for the wedding next year!

Adam and Celeste

2009-09-24T21:37:00.007-04:00

Congratulations to Celeste and Adam! They tied the knot on September 12th in a beautiful outdoor ceremony at Bryn Du out in Granville! The weather was absolutely gorgeous, as was every detail Celeste included! The gown, the cake, the flowers..everything was spectacular...even if the Bucks did loose to USC (yeah, they had the game on...). Really though, who cares about a game when you have a couple that looks this great...

They're amazing! Make sure you click on the box below to check out a slideshow of more faves!

Anne-Marie

2009-09-20T18:52:00.006-04:00

I've been a horrible blogger. I know, I know...two weeks without a post. It's inexcusable...but I hope you can find it in your hearts to forgive me...

"No", you say??

Well, maybe you can do it for more photos then!

I had the honor of taking Anne-Marie's first photos last Friday. She's four months old and already has the world taking notice! She's beautiful and has such a personality already! Check these out...

Oh...baby toes!!!

Aren't these the sweetest blue eyes you've ever seen??

And this one...well it might be my favorite photo. Ever.

Welcome to the world, and thanks for coming and hanging out with us Anne-Marie (oh, and your mom and Emma too)! :)

Steven and Amanda...A Wedding at Little Turtle!

2009-09-10T14:34:00.011-04:00

Big congrats to Amanda and Steven! They tied the know last weekend at Little Turtle Golf Club in Westerville in a beautiful lakefront ceremony! All the details from the flowers, to the cake, to the ceremony itself had been looked after...here now, are just a few of those details!

The flowers, check out the palm frond wrapper around the stems!

You know I've got to get a shoe shot in there!

Amanda's stunning hair and makeup...

The ceremony...

The cake...

Thank you to Amanda, Steven and your families for having me as a part of your day! Congratulations again and hope you're having a wonderful time on your Honeymoon!

Don't forget to check out the slideshow!

Ceremony: Your Day Your Way, Reception: Little Turtle Golf Club Flowers: Bloomtastic Hair: Goodehair Makeup: Eye Candy Cosmetics Cake: Alice's Piece of Cake DJ: Quality DJ Services

Happy Anniversary to me!

2009-09-09T20:02:00.003-04:00

Today, it's been nine years. And while Isaac isn't usually one for gushing in such a public forum, I have to give him credit for helping me become who I am today. He has encouraged me, supported my decisions and laughed with me all along the way. He's never doubted me for one second, and even though I might come up with a crazy idea every now and then, he knew...knew that my photography would take off. So to commemorate the past nine years, and to look to the years to come, here's a photo from our wedding day.

Happy Anniversary Mr. Claypool!

Tyler

2009-09-08T21:27:00.008-04:00

Congratulations to Kelly and Mark! Four weeks ago they welcomed their son, Tyler into the world! He's an adorable little boy and was so calm the whole time I was shooting! Check out a few favorites!

He was asleep when I arrived at their home and still had to rub the sleep out of his eyes as we got started...

Slowly waking up, realizing there was a strange person in the house... Trust me, it didn't take long before we was completely alert and working the camera!

With Mom and Dad...

Oh those little baby expressions...

A perfect bundle of joy!

Kelly and Mark...thank you so much for allowing me to capture your new little arrival! Congratulations again!

Sara and Chuck...The Wedding!

2009-09-01T17:04:00.011-04:00

Congratulations to Sara and Chuck as they begin their new life together! They tied the knot on 8.22 in front of a church full of family and friends. After the ceremony, it was on to the reception at the newly re-done Riviera Country Club in Dublin... Here are a few favorites...

A big thank you goes out to Candy Barney and Courtney Mason for coming along with me for the day!

Sara and Chuck..A Sneak Peek!

2009-08-27T17:48:00.001-04:00

Elizabeth and Paul

2009-08-19T18:01:00.023-04:00

Congratulations to Paul and Elizabeth! These Rugby aficionados tied the knot on the beach in Mexico last month, but had a reception for all their family and friends back home in Cincinnati this past weekend. We met up at the beautiful Ault Park for some family photos, and just some fun pics of the two of them...

Here, Paul gets help with his boutonniere from Elizabeth. I love the grin...

And Elizabeth gets a hand with the flower in her hair from Mom..

Although the pavilion was otherwise occupied, we were still able to get it in a shot...

Elizabeth's eyes just sparkle here...

After the photos, we headed out to the party at the Redmoor, an awesome art deco theater that now hosts musical groups and spectacular wedding receptions...

First dance...

And then once the sun went down, we had to get a shot of the two of them underneath the Redmoor's marquis...

Congratulations again guys! Thanks so much for having me along for the day!

A Word About Album Design

2009-08-11T17:12:00.004-04:00

Wedding Photos are meant to be enjoyed. And not just in a “posted-on-facebook” sort of way (although, that is fun). They are the graphic retelling of the story of how a family came to be, and with that in mind the wedding album is something that should be cherished for generations. When it’s cold outside, you should be able to pull your album down off a shelf, pour a glass of wine, build a fire and relive your story from cover to cover (maybe even with your children, or grandchildren). You should be able to curl up with it like you would a good book. Yes, many photographers offer CD only packages; myself included, but when was the last time you heard of anyone curling up with a CD?

After several years of designing albums for the couples I’m honored enough to work with (and I do get to work with the most awesome couples ever), I’ve noticed I hear the same kinds of questions when it comes to beginning to lay out an album. So, here’s a little list I’ve compiled of things to keep in mind when thinking about your album…Happy Designing!

Although albums can be designed in a “collage-style” (a.k.a pictures on top of pictures), keep in mind that simple layouts work best. Clean lines will keep the eye focused on the actual image, and overwhelm the viewer with special effects.

Reduced opacity (faded) backgrounds are fine, but usually best kept to one or two spreads at the most.

Black and white images usually look best along with other black and white images, be careful of grouping too many of them with color.

Don’t put too many photos on any one page. If you want to include more photos, consider adding another page. You don’t want an album to appear to be busting at the seams with photos.
Consider leaving some negative space. Not every photo needs to take up the entire page on its own, leave some space for the eye to be “led” to the image.

Click here to see Elizabeth and Andy's album!

A Birthday Shout Out!

2009-08-08T07:35:00.003-04:00

You know that little brother I mentioned in yesterday's post? Well, he turns the big 3-2 today, so I just had to give him a little Birthday noogie. When you live1500 or so miles apart, the way you do that is with humiliating photos...so here you go, Heath.

You've come a long way, kid!

Happy Birthday!

I'm a little sad right now that the "Mulletts Galore" website is no more. :)

More Family Time!

2009-08-05T21:50:00.000-04:00

Last week I met Chad, Lori, Chad and Brendan out at Slate Run park near Canal Winchester for some family fun! I had a great time getting to know this beautiful family and walking along the trails during what was supposed to be another rainy day here. in central Ohio. Here are a few of my favorite shots from the evening...

Brothers...

This may have been my favorite from the day...

Hmmm...maybe it was this one...

I think I'll title this one "Brothers, Part II". I have a little brother too, so it cracked me up when Brendan would just get his little self up to reach the water fountain and Chad woulds shut the water off...I'm pretty sure I used to do the same thing with my little brother...

A couple headshots of the boys...

...and a jump shot...

I LOVE this one. It was a perfect moment between the two of them, you can almost hear Brendan asking for Chad's advice on something...or maybe he was begging him not to tie his shoelaces together before the end of the shoot...like I said, I have a brother. :)

Thanks to Mom, Dad and the boys for a great (rain-free) evening!

Can you can??

2009-08-03T14:41:00.013-04:00

I have the greatest in-laws in the world. Period. And for so many reasons...way too many to list here, but one of those reasons is that my mother-in-law has taken the time to show my husband and I (several times) how to can. In the fall, he gets a craving for homemade tomato soup. I love vegetable soup with the tomato-ey base (plus, I hear fresh tomato juice makes for a great Bloody Mary). So every August for the past three years running we get together, buy a few boxes of tomatoes from a local grower, and spend a day or two canning quart after quart of the juicy red stuff! This post serves two purposes, One: it was a fun event to photograph and Two: Maybe if I document the process, I'll remember how to do it next year!

First, start by selecting your tomatoes. In our case, it was 6 boxes...

Wash as many jars as humanly possible. You'll have to sterilize them and the lids...but that's later...

That's my M-I-L coring and cutting the tomatoes before we cook them down a bit...

That's my F-I-L...manning the blender to puree the juice before...

Putting it all through a food mill (here, Emma pretends to help).

Here's my dear husband pouring the juice into the sterilized jars (and adding a teaspoon of salt to each quart). He was also in charge of boiling the lids and rings. Remember, botulism toxin in the brow: good, botulism toxin in the stomach...not so much!

A large canner holds 7 quart jars. Place the jars in the basket and bring to 5 pounds for 5 minutes. For me, this has always been the scary part. I'm always halfway across the room for fear that the lid will blow off the top and splatter hot tomato juice all over me and my kitchen. However, my family assures me that this won't happen if all safety precautions are followed (Note: the wording on the pressure gauge)...

After the pressure has backed off remove the jars, tighten the lids and listen for the little "click" that means each seal has properly taken place! Such a satisfying sound!

Now, repeat the process until all the boxes are empty!

Six boxes took about six hours and made about 60 quarts of juice. Of course, if you just want diced tomatoes...you can save yourself a step or two! If this sounds like fun to you, please feel free to stop by any time next Saturday 'cause we're doing six more boxes!

Family Time

2009-07-27T09:39:00.016-04:00

Any time is a good time to get the gang together for a family portrait! I've shot Lindsey and her kiddo's several times over the past couple years, but last week she brought out her extended family for some fun stuff at the Pinnacle Golf and Country Club...

This one is my favorite...

Lindsey's sisters are also her kids' godmothers...

Sisters...

Remember Dominic?? He's a year old now!

Thanks for such a fun evening shooting such a beautiful family!

A Family Photo Sneak Peak!

2009-07-24T17:38:00.003-04:00

Last week I met up with my friend Lindsey and her family for a super fun family photos shoot! I'll have a full post up soon, but in the meantime, here was a cute one just of Lindsey and her hubby, Alex to commemorate their 7th anniversary!

Brent and Leaha... A Star-Spangled Wedding!

2009-07-11T10:46:00.008-04:00

The 4th of July. A time to celebrate the birth of the US of A, liberty, Independence and oh... Brent and Leaha's wedding!!! Benventuto in Boynton Beach, Florida was the place, and Brent and Leaha's big day was chock full of 4th of July details! Everything from Leaha's red-edged gown, to the fireworks at the end of the night... their wedding is one that will not soon be forgotten! A big thank you to Melissa Recio for coming all the way from Orlando to second shoot with me! Here are a couple favorites...

And now...the slideshow!

Brent...Leaha...I can't thank you enough for the opportunity to capture your big day! Congratulations to both of you as you begin your life together!

The Reason I'm Here...

2009-07-08T11:27:00.002-04:00

For anyone who's a friend of mine on the ever-addicting Facebook, you know that I've been in beautiful Florida a little over a week now. We've been having an incredible time, but the reason we're here is that I was honored enough to photograph the wedding of Brent and Leaha in Boynton Beach on the 4th of July! There's so much more to blog, and tons of pictures to post, but for now here's a quick shot I grabbed of the two of them just after their Rehearsal Dinner at a place called "The Old Key Lime House"...

Stay tuned!

Alex

2009-06-29T14:38:00.006-04:00

Back in the day she was Jill, or "Jilly Bean" as we sometimes called her. She was a friend of from wayyyy back in the high school days and even back then we all knew Jill would go far. These days she's got a great career, is an avid rugby player, a coach, a wife and as of a few months ago she can now add "Mom" to her resume as well. While Jill was in town a few weeks ago, she invited me to her parents' house to photograph her adorable little boy, Alex. It was a great morning...and kind of a reunion getting to see Jill and her family again after so many years!

Jill's a photographer too, so little Alex was already a natural in front of the camera...

I love photos that show children intently focused on something as simple as a blade of grass. Their little minds are so incredible and it's amazing to watch what they learn and how they learn it...

A family portrait...

Click below for the slideshow of even more photos... Jill, Andy, Alex and family...thank you all so much for having me out to commemorate such a special little guy and the wonderful family he's been blessed to be born into!

Landen and The Girls

2009-06-26T22:32:00.008-04:00

Remember Landen? Well, he's all grown up now! Okay, not all grown up...but he's inching closer and closer to that One Year mark and he's just adorable! His Mom and Dad invited me back out to get some shots of little Landen with his sister and cousins... here are a few favorites!

Here's Landen with his big sis, Kayleigh...

Cousins, Sydney and Ainsley...

The big boy all by himself...

And one with Grandpa...

Thanks so much to Landen, the girls and the rest of his wonderful family for having me back to capture more memories! It was a pleasure! Don't forget to check out the slideshow below for even more pics!

Fun With Engagement Photos, Part 2

2009-06-25T09:50:00.000-04:00

If table numbers aren't your thing, but you still want to have some fun with your Engagement photos, you may want to think about a custom-designed guest book! These books are a new twist on the old-fashioned guest book, but instead of guests simply signing their names on a dotted line they can leave a little message for you to cherish forever!
Check out Sara and Chuck's book...
They chose a custom wraparound dust jacket...
You choose the photos you want on the pages...one like this shot on the right can be done with reduced opacity so guests can write right on the photo...

Or in the whitespace provided on each page...

And each book is made with hinged paper, so the pages lay flat when open...

The possibilities are endless!

Shooting with Chantal, Part 2

2009-06-23T08:02:00.001-04:00

Two weekends in a row I had the honor of second shooting with the fabulous Chantal Stone! First, it was Theresa and Reggie in Akron, then it was Jazmin and Eric at Pinnacle right here, in Grove City!

Jazmin and Eric are a stunning couple and they opted to see each other before the ceremony to allow plenty of time for the photos...

Some detail from the candy bar set up inside...

And check out these flowers... Don't forget to click on over to Chantal's blog to see even more photos from their amazing day!

Jazmin, Eric and Chantal...thank you all for the opportunity to help document such a beautiful day! Congratulations!

Pets are Family Too!

2009-06-19T22:19:00.006-04:00

Amy and Ray were married last October under the clear blue skies at Franklin Park Conservatory. Their wedding day was perfect, but one thing was missing...their pets! So Amy e-mailed me a couple weeks ago to set up a shoot with her extended family and all their adorable pets!

Here's Amy, Ray and their dog, Frodo. I told Frodo what a great job he was doing and Ray deemed him "Frodo-genic"! He certainly is!

Amy's mother's dog, Buster...

The cats, Tux and Callie didn't have individual portraits taken, but they were there for the group shots in the slideshow. After some casual portraits, the whole gang changed into Buckeye Gear for some fun stuff...

Ray, Amy and gang...thanks so much for having me out to capture all the fun!

Emily and Dave..Anytime!

2009-06-17T10:04:00.002-04:00

It had been a while since Emily and Dave had photographs taken of just the two of them. Six years, really..since their wedding! So Emily, who I had originally met while photographing her sister's wedding, called me up and we arranged for a shoot at their home.

We took about an hour and shot everywhere we could on their beautiful property, starting out on their porch swing with their pooch, Bentley...

This one, I think is my favorite of the day...

Hmmm..maybe this one was... Sidenote: There aren't many girls out there who would be willing to climb a tree in heels for a shot. Emily rocked it though!

Another favorite...

Dave, Emily...I can't thank you enough for having me capture the two of you on film! Okay, it's not film...but saying "capture you on memory card" just doesn't have the same ring to it)! Thank you...and Bentley too!

Heather and John, A Royal Wedding...

2009-06-15T09:21:00.005-04:00

I don't normally post clients' last names to my blog posts, so let's just say that both Heather and John's last names were truly noble so that made their wedding a Royal event!

From their ceremony at Pinnacle Golf and Country Club to the one-of-a-kind reception at White Star Farm...every little detail of the day had their fingerprints on it!

Congratulations, Heather and John! And thank you both for having me along to document your lovely day!

A Very Special Blog Post...

2009-06-10T22:29:00.005-04:00

I often think that all my life I've wanted to be a photographer, but that's not entirely true. Earlier on, before I knew that there was any other possibility I knew I wanted to be a mother. It must have come from playing with my dolls, and having a chance to pretend to care for one so small, so dependent...or maybe it came from watching my own mother dote on my baby brother. I pushed strollers around the neighborhood, insisted on bringing my dolls' car seats wherever we went, and tucked them in at night. I dreamed of having my own family one day, and tried to envision what my children might look like.

It's been seven and a half years now since I became a mother to my son, and five years ago today that I became a mother to a daughter. Yes, my baby turns five today. She pushes her dolls in a stroller through the neighborhood, makes sure they have bottles when we go to the playground, and kisses their boo-boos when they fall off the swing at the park. I watch her and I can't help but be so very proud of the little lady she's becoming...and the mom she'll someday be. One day, I'm certain her daughter will make her as happy as she makes me.

Even though both kids get "official" school portraits these days, I still get to shoot them to commemorate their birthdays. Yesterday afternoon, we took a walk through Schiller Park to grab a few shots of Emma being Emma... Here are a few of my favorites!

Happy Birthday Emma!

Shooting with Chantal, Part I

2009-06-07T08:34:00.004-04:00

A few weeks ago I had the awesome opportunity to shoot a wedding in Akron with my friend, the amazingly talented Chantal Stone!

Theresa and Reggie were married at St. Bernard's church with a reception following at the Rosemont Country Club...check out these details from the day then click on over to Chantal's blog for more!

Wedding Bee

2009-06-05T08:28:00.001-04:00

Congratulations to Amanda!

You may remember Amanda from her April wedding to Jonathan. She did an amazing job planning her wedding and even did her own floral design! Now, her bouquet is featured on the DIY planning site, WeddingBee.com!

Check it (and other great DIY ideas) out here!

Fun With Engagement Photos, Part I

2009-06-03T21:03:00.009-04:00

Engagement sessions are great! While they may not be a requirement for every couple I work with, I highly recommend them...and here's why: They allow me to see how a couple interacts together, they allow the couple to see how I work and gets them comfortable in front of the camera. A session takes about an hour and it's really just a fun time for me to get to know you. And when we're done we have some terrific images to document the experience!

Years ago, the photos were great to hang on a wall or slip into an album never to be seen again, but now the possibilities are endless! Take Katie and Eric's session, for example...they are using their engagement photos in their tables number cards!

There are loads of other ideas too, stay tuned for more!

Leigh-Ann and Samer...Married!

2009-05-19T08:36:00.012-04:00

Last weekend saw the uniting of two amazing people...Leigh-Ann and Samer. The weather threatened to interfere with our plans for photos, but in the end it was all just fine. The thunderstorms that were predicted never came into being, just a few sprinkles. Just before the reception the sun even made an appearance!

Here are a few of my favorite images from the day. Be sure to check out the slideshow at the end too!

Yes, I have mystical powers that enable me to suspend shoes using only my mind! Just kidding...

The ceremony was at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral downtown. It took be back a little as the very first wedding I shot was an Orthodox ceremony. I may scan those and post a few images someday. Anyway, the church is truly stunning inside and I'm pretty sure I nearly snapped my neck off trying to determine who all was depicted in the frescoes and mosaics on the ceiling! Being an Orthodox ceremony, there was the crowning. These are the crowns...

See what I mean...stunning!

I had a great vantage point and was able to get Leigh-Ann and Samer's faces during most of the ceremony...

Instead of a limo, they chose a 1950 Cadillac as their getaway car! Awesome!

Someone started blowing bubbles once the dance floor opened up... I couldn't resist...

The disco ball at Valley Dale threw this really cool light everywhere...

Samer...Leigh-Ann, thank you so much for an amazing day! Congratulations to you!

And now...the slideshow!

Linda Blaine

2009-05-15T10:02:00.009-04:00

Welcome to the world, little Linda!

Linda is the adorable new addition to Kristen and Dale's family! Just a few weeks old, she already has quite the personality and is quite the apple of Mom and Dad's eye! She's so alert, and so happy and easygoing. It was such an honor to be invited by Linda's mom and dad to come and take her newborn pics... I had a blast shooting their wedding, and to be invited to come back to photograph another major event in their lives...well that's really something! Here are just a few faves...

I hear other photographers talk about how "sometimes it's the first photo you take"...I think that was the case here. Dale holds his new little daughter like a pro! Isn't she beautiful???

She was intent on figuring out how to find her fist...

Kristen is an amazing mom already...

Check out the slideshow for more...

Anne and Victor...The Wedding!

2009-05-13T21:05:00.006-04:00

From the minute I met Anne and Victor, I knew their wedding was going to be memorable! For starters...they were just a fun, fun couple to talk to. And then, I found out they had awesome taste in music! I spent the day with them last Saturday documenting their every wedding-day move! From the girl's preparations at Nicole Martin salon in Clintonville, to the ceremony at the beautiful (and historic) Trinity Lutheran church downtown, to the reception at the Clintonville Women's Club...it was truly a wonderful day!

Victor's friend is an artist who's work was recently featured on this billboard downtown, so they wanted to get a photo of the entire wedding party in front of the masterpiece...

Anne and Victor met at Little Brother's, so we went by and took a few photos out front. It's changed hands now and is no longer Little Brother's, but the scenery and the location are still meaningful...

Then we headed over to the Park of Roses where; though it threatened to rain, we managed to stay dry for a few more photos...

There are so many more photos in the slideshow below, so make sure to click and check them out! Anne and Victor...thank you so much for having me along for your amazing day! Congratulations!

Laura and Rick...Engaged!

2009-05-05T14:59:00.009-04:00

Meet Laura and Rick!

They are planning a September wedding in the Hocking Hills, and I think I'm just as excited as they are for the big day! We spent some time during the so-called "golden hour" before sunset at Inniswood Metro Gardens getting some cute shots of the two of them...and later on, their adorable puppy, Bella. It was tough to narrow down my faves, but I tried!

I made them do this. Honest Mr. Park Ranger, I did!

This one may have been my absolute favorite of the day!

O-H-I-O!

After we spent some time at Inniswood, we headed to the pub in Dublin where they first met...

Congratulations Laura and Rick! I had an absolute blast shooting the two of you (and Bella, of course)! Looking forward to September!

Don't forget to check out the slideshow!

Stephanie and Brice (and Leila)!

2009-05-03T17:05:00.009-04:00

Stephanie and Brice spent a beautiful Saturday evening with me at Genoa Park having some fun, shooting some photos for their engagement. Their wedding will take place this December with a reception at the fabulous Vault downtown! It's sure to be a beautiful wedding with this amazing couple...

Brice and Stephanie brought along their adorable puppy, Leila for a few shots...

So romantic!

I loved the two of them against the simplicity of this stair-stepped wall...

Stephanie and Brice...I hope you guys had as much fun as I did! Congratulations on your engagement...can't wait for the wedding!

And now...the slideshow!

Katie and Eric..Engaged!

2009-04-28T15:35:00.006-04:00

Katie met Eric when they were both students at OSU. Years later, they ended up being neighbors and the rest; as they say is history!

Now the couple is busy planning their October wedding at the Blackwell Center, surrounded by their friends, family and their alma mater. We spent some time while the weather was nice down at Goodale Park taking some photos. Here are just a couple...

I love Katie's eyes in this one...

The one request they had for their engagement photos was we get a shot of the two of them against the backdrop of the Columbus skyline. The original plan called for us to stop by North Bank Park for that particular shot, but as luck would have it...a wedding was going on, so we couldn't shoot there. We had a plan B though, so we headed over to Genoa Park (just behind COSI). Don't they look great?

Eric and Katie, thanks so much for a great afternoon! I can't wait to share the rest of the photos with you...and can't wait for the wedding in October!

And now...the slideshow!

Jonathan and Amanda...The Wedding!

2009-04-20T21:07:00.019-04:00

They weren't High School Sweethearts...but they could have been. Just a couple years apart, they attended the same school, participated in the same activities and had common interests. It took a chance meeting several years later to finally bring Amanda and Jonathan together.

Their wedding was nothing less than fantastic! It was like all the powers that be knew what a special day it was and allowed a day long break in the rain just for them. The ceremony was held at Zion Lutheran church, with a reception at the nearby Columbus Maennerchor (with a little stop at Schiller Park thrown in for fun)!

Jonathan and Amanda opted for a First Look before the ceremony...you can just feel their excitement!

Courtney Mason second shot with me..i It was great to have her shooting their First Look from another point of view...

We had incredible weather which allowed us to walk all over German Village for some awesome shots!

When I shot this one, I noticed they were under the street sign for Pearl Street, and in my head I kept hearing a line from Fiddler on the Roof (yes, I know...my whole life is a series of movie quotes) where the grandmother's ghost is screaming about "Pearls, Pearls, Pearls"! It wasn't until the Best Man's toast that I found out they were actually in a production of Fiddler on the Roof together back in their High School days...

After the ceremony, it was off to the park for some fun stuff with the wedding party...

At the reception, Jonathan surprised his bride with a serenade...

... Yeah, I think she liked it...

Congratulations Jonathan and Amanda! May you both have all the best that life has to offer! It was an honor to capture your big day!

Don't forget to check out the slideshow!

Alice

2009-04-16T17:31:00.003-04:00

I honestly don't know why I never blogged this photo before.

I'm not a Pet Photographer by any stretch, but I was asked to capture this little one's mug for a Christmas Gift this past year (come to think of it, not spoiling the surprise for the recipient is why I never blogged it...she's a blog reader)! Alice is an adorable little pooch and while she chilled at our place at Thanksgiving, I caught a few quick ones of her!

This one was the best though!

Stay tuned for what is sure to be an amazing wedding this weekend!

Misty and Kenny

2009-03-29T16:53:00.009-04:00

I first met Kenny when he was a Groomsman in his cousin, Michael's wedding almost two years ago. Last weekend, I had the honor of photographing Kenny and his beautiful bride, Misty as they took their vows. Their ceremony was lovely, and left barely a dry eye in the church!

Here are a couple of my very favorite shots...and don't forget to check out the slideshow at the end!

You know I love details...

Misty's eyes were so gorgeous in this shot...

Kenny in a reflective moment before heading to the church...

And a kiss just before leaving for the reception...

Misty, Kenny...thank you both for such a wonderful afternoon! Congratulations to you as you begin your life together!

Now for the slideshow!

Back to the Beach

2009-03-09T16:56:00.011-04:00

Remember when you were a kid and your parents dragged you over to the neighbor's house to look at slides of their vacation photos? No? Maybe it was just me then. We would have to go to someone's paneled basement, dim the lights and listen to the Kodak projector hum and click along while we watched happy faces in front of Cinderella's Castle at Disney World and then again in from of the Giant Golf-Ball at Epcot. To that end, I promise not to bore any of my blog readers to death by showing them the blow-by-blow photos of my recent trip to the Sunshine State (you can see those on my facebook page...are we friends yet?) :)

There were some keepers though, so I hope y'all don't mind if I share just a few...

Every vacation needs a beach shot..this is from Jupiter Island...

My brother, Heath has this sneaky habit of making people think he's just holding his camera when in actuality he's shooting you...

Here I am, returning the favor...

And here he is looking all "Jack Johnson meets Mike Rowe"...

MY Palm Tree...

Driftwood is so cool...

And yes, while the beach visit was a bit of a shoot out with my little brother, Isaac was there too! Heath got this one of the two of us as we made the stroll back to the car...

If you're interested, you can click here for a slideshow. A lot of the photos are the same, but the music is worth it if you're just a little into Jimmy Buffett, like I am!

Brent and Leaha...The Engagement Shoot!

2009-03-03T08:28:00.008-05:00

I have been looking forward to this post since late last summer! Brent and Leaha are an amazing couple in Jupiter, Florida. I am so thrilled to be coming back in July to shoot their wedding, but this weekend I got to meet them for a really fun engagement shoot on the beach!

This one is my fave...

I love Leaha's eyes in this one...

I very nearly posted this one in black and white so no one could tell they were wearing blue and orange (just kidding guys...) :) Brent's a Gator, and he's converted his bride-to-be! I love how they are looking at each other in this one...

Brent and Leaha, I had an awesome time shooting the two of you! Thanks so much for making it so much fun...I can't wait for the wedding!

Check out the slideshow!

Sara and Chuck...Engaged!

2009-02-28T08:24:00.008-05:00

I spent last Sunday at the beautiful Franklin Park Conservatory shooting an AWESOME couple! Sara and Chuck are engaged and planning an August wedding here in Columbus. They are so in love, and being able to capture the sweet looks they give each other was a truly wonderful experience. They laugh together, have fun together, and of course...they look FABULOUS together!

And now, the slideshow!

Don and Aleksandra

2009-02-24T11:22:00.019-05:00

They met in sunny California. Aleksandra was there finishing Grad School and Don was just beginning a three-week long vacation. They spent those next three weeks together and eventually, she moved to the other coast just to be with him.

That was five years ago, and that was what brought them both back here to his home state of Ohio to tie the knot this past weekend! Thier’s was a wedding that was a true family affair…her parents flew in from Russia, Don’s father was his best man, his daughters were bridesmaids and his grandfather performed the ceremony! Shooting the ceremony, I couldn't’t help but feel so honored to be a part of such an intimate occasion.

Here are just a few of my favorite shots from the day…don’t forget to check out the slideshow at the end!

Don, getting a hand with his boutonniere from his Grandmother...

Aleksandra's way cute shoes!

Getting into the gown...

Don and Aleksandra had an amazing sense of humor, and they didn't mind showing it in front of the camera! Here, they had a great idea to do an old-time, no-smiles, 1800's pose.

I love reflections...this one was in one of the mirrors in the sitting area at Der Dutchman, where their reception was held...

The same mirror, just more of it...and them!

And now, the slideshow...

Dominic at 6 Months

2009-02-19T15:55:00.012-05:00

Remember Dominic? He just turned 6 months old! I can't believe how fast time flies these days and it seems like babies just drive that point home even more these days! It seems like just yesterday when Dominic's amazing parents asked me to shoot her maternity session!

Anyway, Dominic is about the cutest 6-month around! Check out his little grin!

Because every child has to find his feet...

Dad's a huge Brown's fan, so these were Mom's surprise for him...

I think we wore him out...

Happy Six Months, Dominic!

Caden

2009-02-08T19:02:00.013-05:00

Meet Caden!

He's an adorable 7-week old who, along with his parents posed for a newborn session this past weekend! It's always fun to capture the precious little features and expressions of such a tiny new life... and I would be lying if I said it didn't make me long (just a little bit) for those days when mine were still that small...

Those eyes....

The new little family...

The first "baby", Daisy...

These little feet will grow so fast!

Jennifer and Phil...congratulations on your new little bundle!

A Much Needed Update!

2009-02-05T16:45:00.004-05:00

I've desperately needed to take some time to update my website. 2008 was an incredible year for me and I was honored to photograph some of the coolest couples around. I knew when I shot them that their photos would end up on the website, the only problem was finding the time to get them up there! So, now that things have slowed down a bit I've finally been able to take the time to post some new photos.

In looking over my site, I realized I had a handful of bride pictures, a handful of groom pictures and some of the couples together, but I didn't have much in the way of documenting ceremonies (and let's face it...that's what the day's for, isn't it?), the bridal party, or the fun receptions that follow!

So if you check out my site, you'll not only see tons of new images in the gallery titled "...then comes marriage", you'll also see a "raves" section and a new calendar feature that I'm going to try my best to keep up with (it's not always easy, but I'm trying)!

Thanks so much to all the couples I've had the pleasure of working with this past year and who's images have graced the pages of this blog..and now my site!

Gooooo Steelers!

2009-02-02T08:15:00.002-05:00

I may not be a huge football fan. Blame it on the fact that there are no professional teams in this city but last night I felt a strange sense of loyalty to the team of my mom's hometown, Pittsburgh! Normally, it's all about the commercials for me...and there were some good ones this year! Advertisers did not disappoint! That being said, I have to admit I felt like I needed to shoo the kids out of the room for a few of them...maybe I'm just getting old!

Anyway, it was easy to get caught up in the excitement surrounding the game this year, and even though I must confess to not knowing what "First Down" means, I know this was a history-making play!

Go Steelers!

Elizabeth and Andy...A Proper Post!

2009-01-27T19:46:00.012-05:00

This is kind of a "re" post, if there is such a thing. Elizabeth and Andy were married back in November. At the time I originally posted their photos, blogger had a little bit of a problem with me re-sizing the images. So I posted them in a slideshow.

A very small slideshow.

So in order to do their beautiful day justice, I'm posting their slideshow again. Only this time it's a big slideshow...with tunes!

But first, here are a couple of the stills...

Her bouquet had some amazing color!

Her eyes were so expressive as she put on her veil...

To see Elizabeth and Andy's story from the original post, click here after the show!

Jamie and Bill...The Album

2009-01-23T10:04:00.015-05:00

Check it out! I've got my first real slideshow up and running! Forgive me, I don't have all the control buttons up just yet, but they'll be there soon!

The show is of the album I just finished for Jamie and Bill. Their album, like every other album I design incorporates their individual style and I think their album choices reflects their style perfectly!

Enjoy!

Pure and Simple

2009-01-20T16:54:00.003-05:00

I'm a child of the 80's without a doubt. And for some reason, this song popped into my head today. If you know me, you know I had to go out and track the song down, so that's exactly what I did! Found it on YouTube and it made me so happy that I just had to share!

Christmas Day...a shoot with Dad!

2009-01-12T15:28:00.018-05:00

If you've read my bio page on my website, then you know that had it not been for my Dad, I never would have developed (a little photography humor) a love for photography. Christmas morning 1987, after all the presents had been unwrapped ( I had already gotten an awesome denim purse and a poster of the band Poison, what more could a girl ask for?), one present remained under the tree. There was no tag on it, but my dad said, "Why don't you open it, Heather?". So I did. When I picked it up, it rattled...a lot, but as I opened the box, I realized the sound came from a small Folgers can with a couple nails in it...just to throw me off! Once I saw the grey bag with the black strap, I knew what was inside. After all, I had seen my dad with that same bag slung over his shoulder during our trips to Disney World, Kennywood Park and Storybook Forest! He had given me my first camera (well, aside from that Kodak Disc camera, of course).

That Christmas morning, we both loaded up our gear and headed out to Scioto Park in Dublin to shoot and get to know our new cameras (he with his brand new Nikon and I with my "gently used" Minolta). It was an amazing day, and if I knew where they were, I'd post those photos in a heartbeat!

Dad lives in Florida now, but he was here for Christmas. So this Christmas morning, we reprised the scene from 1987, only this time to shoot in Grove City. It's funny, it's the place where he grew up and the place where my husband and I chose to raise our family. so it's got a lot of meaning..a little emotional pull for both of us!

Check these out...

I think this was one of Dad's outside an old barn just near downtown Grove City. It was so much fun to hear him talk about the things he remembered about growing up here. Things like where he opened his first bank account and where he used to ride his bike...

The man, the myth, the legend...

Dad took this one of my shadow outside the old Farmer's Exchange...

He took this one too, looking up some kind of grain chute...

I took this one of the exterior and it's weathered roof.

A Grove City Landmark...

The mural at Park and Broadway...

A different view of Planks...

Another one of Dad's...

I'm not sure if this is a church or a schoolhouse, but it's apparent that someone is taking measures to restore it somewhat. The bell tower was boarded over last time I was here...

Anyone who's a GC native knows where these are...

Hooray for timer mode!

Dad, thanks so much for wonderful Christmas! Hope you're enjoying warmer weather now! We miss you!

Patricia and Michael...The Day After!

2009-01-08T09:21:00.014-05:00

After Michael and Patricia's beautiful wedding day, they opted to have a Day After shoot at Franklin Park Conservatory. What's a Day After shoot, you ask?

Well, it's just what it sounds like! The day after the wedding (or the next week, or upon returning from the honeymoon, whatever works best), the couple gets back into their wedding attire and heads out for one last creative, romantic photo session. It's another chance to have some fun photos taken without the wedding day pressures of "who has the rings, where are the flowers, is the cellist here yet, what do you mean we only have 10 minutes left to get to the reception?" It's just the couple, myself (and occasionally, a random passerby who wants to congratulate said couple).

For Patricia and Michael, we chose the lovely Franklin Park Conservatory where we could be indoors, and still have lovely green, landscaped spaces for a natural look!

Here are a few of the shots from their Day After...

Patricia, Michael...thank you for such a wonderful afternoon! You are an amazing couple and it's been an honor to work with you! Congratulations!

Patricia and Michael...The Wedding!

2009-01-06T09:12:00.026-05:00

When I first got the phone call from Michael asking about availability for his January 3rd wedding, I was a little confused. "January"? I thought to myself..."As in the month of freezing rain, and slush and below zero temperatures...that January"? I repeated the date to him just to make sure I had heard him correctly and he said, "Yep! The first weekend of the 2009...we're staring the new year off right"! And then it made perfect sense.

Who cares about a little chill in the air when you're beginning the rest of your lives together?

Michael and Patricia couldn't have been a sweeter couple. We began with their ceremony at Fairfield Christian Church in Baltimore. Then it was on to the reception at Cheers Chalet in nearby Lancaster. I was thrilled to have Courtney Mason come along and shoot with me too! She did a wonderful job!

Here are a few of my favorites from their beautiful day...

I loved Patricia's shoes, but I think I liked the box they came in just as much..fun colors to shoot against!

The best man suiting up...

I loved this view of Patricia's face in the mirror of her jewelery box as her mother smiles softly...

She looked amazing!

Here's one of Courtney's I just loved!

The flower girl...not to sure about all the goings-on. She posed for some fabulous formals and even got some rockin' Princess stickers out of the deal! :)

The Groom...

The ceremony begins...

A couple quick romantic shots before departing for the reception...

Some detail from the reception...

The cake topper...Lovebirds...

Totally...

It seemed everyone wanted the same picture...

I love first dances! I shoot through the entire song... literally!

I think everyone had a great time!

But wait, there's more! Check back for images from Patricia and Michael's Day After shoot!

Patricia and Michael... A Sneak Peek!

2009-01-04T18:22:00.001-05:00

Stay Tuned...

Katie and Chris..A New Year's Wedding!

2009-01-01T21:08:00.035-05:00

Happy New Year!

They say that whoever you're with at Midnight on New Year's Eve is who you'll spend the rest of the year with. If that's true, I'll be looking forward to a beautiful year spent with...my camera! :)

Actually, my friend Chantal Stone asked me to come along with her as she photographed Chris and Katie as they began their life together. It was a beautiful ceremony at Powell's historic Liberty Presbyterian Church and the reception was at The Vault in downtown Columbus. Here are a few of my faves...

Katie had the greatest expressions!

Looks cold, doesn't it?

A silhouette of the groom overlooking the church from the balcony...

A different ring shot...

We stopped at High Street for some fun pics... I loved the twinkling lights behind them here...

The toast...

I grabbed a couple exterior shots...

If you've never been to the Vault, it's a pretty historic location worth checking out. There is an actual vault inside that used to be part of a bank. Now it's where the bar is located! I couldn't resist getting a shot of the inner workings of the vault door...

They had some fun with the cake!

30 seconds till midnight!

Can't you just hear Auld Lang Syne?

I think this one pretty much sums it up!

Chantal, thank you again for bringing me along! Katie and Chris, thanks so much and congratulations!

Best wishes to all for an amazing 2009!

Amanda and Ben... Married!

2008-12-30T21:10:00.019-05:00

Saturday saw some freakishly warm weather for the weekend after Christmas! It also happened to be the day the Ben and Amanda tied the knot! They had a beautiful ceremony at Grace Bible Church in Canal Winchester and a reception at Hickory Lakes in Pickerington. I was honored to have Kevin Keefer come along with me so make sure you head over to his blog to check out his images of the day!

The girls were still finishing up their flowers when I got to the church...

There haven't been too many times I can remember shooting outside in December...

Capturing the ceremony on video...

They had a bell choir play during the ceremony...fitting for a Christmas wedding, don't you think??

On their way to the getaway car...

A different cake shot...

Signing the marriage certificate...All smiles...

Amanda and Ben telling Santa what they wanted for Christmas...

A sweet moment during their first dance...
The bouquet in midair...

I'll give everyone two guesses what song was playing here... :)

Amanda and Ben, congratulations and have a fantastic time on your Honeymoon and have a wonderful New Year!