Miraculous Michelle...

Michelle was a bunch of fun. She just wanted a cap and gown session. She told me about how she was a miracle baby (teeny tiny, and complications). She's soft-spoken, and ever so sweet. Her images display these qualities...

Kayla M...

I had so many ideas with Kayla, we just ran out of time. She’s a soccer player (another in a long list I’ve done recently). We started out in the “perfect light” garage. I really wanted to bring out the spectacular browns in her eyes, so garage light worked the best. We then journeyed outside in her fabulous pink dress. The sun was still pretty high in the sky so we decided to use it out in the fields. The swing came next. I’ve used this now for several sessions, but always seem to find a new way of capturing my seniors in it or maybe it’s just my seniors being creative (thanks Kayla for just having fun in it and giving me the new idea). We photographed the black dress next and then made our way outside to shoot in the fields. Finally we finished things up inside with her soccer uniform. Kayla is going to play soccer in college. Forgot to mention that I photographed her sister a few years back. This was a fun session and I think we captured her true beauty. I hope Kayla and her mom like ‘em….. More on the web site….

April in March....

They say after Winter comes Spring. Well, April came early this year, actually in March (hehehehe). April was a true delight to work with. She was very relaxed and kept this sassy and comical conversation going with her mom throughout the session. April’s eyes are extraordinary. I would have to say that they rank right up there with the best of the best. We started out in the garage. When she first sat down to start the session it was like, “wow”, her eyes just jumped right into the camera. I didn’t have to do much, except just make sure the camera was focused. She loves to read, so we then proceeded to pick a spot for the “book shots”. The sun was in and out of the clouds, so dealing with the light kept me on my “technical toes”. The light was just about down, actually behind the house, but not behind clouds, when that magical moment happened. I did use a gobo to block some of the backlight, which helped give a little modeling to the face, but the rest was God’s handy work. We then went to the front of our property and I decided to use strobe and catch the last part of the sunset. At first I didn’t like the image, you know how trustworthy that little LCD screen on the back of the camera is, but when I looked at the images full screen, I loved the second image I took. We wrapped things up with a cap and gown pose (and I won’t give details about the attempt to toss the cap into the air). The images are some of my best, of course it helps to have a photogenic model. I hope April and Tina likes ‘em. I sure do….. More on the website….

Homecoming Queen....

Caitlin was a bundle of joy to work with. Between her contagious smile and her silly faces, we actually captured some truly remarkable images (along with some hilarious funny faces). I had her in my class last year so that’s how she knew of us. What’s really cool about her is that she’s this year’s JM homecoming queen. So now we’ve photographed Mr. Madison, and the Homecoming Queen. Call us the official JM VIP photographer (hehehehe). Caitlin loves to play soccer, she’s actually going on to play in college. So with that in mind, we started out the session with her soccer jersey. Afterwards, we set up in the garage. The light in there is just phenomenal. From there, we journeyed out to the famous Pierce Realty sign shed. And we finished up with her Homecoming dress in the swing, which is getting really popular (great idea, huh?), and the always reliable field of dreams (some with her tiara). It was an entertaining session, and the images turned out fabulous as well. Thanks Caitlin and Vicki…

Raleigh....

Raleigh was a blast. She found us through a referral from Kyann “Pepper” (thanks KK). Who ‘da ever thought two West Texas seniors in one season? Raleigh had a cute West Texas accent (the kind that just charms you to pieces). She says that she wants to become a flight nurse, you know the kind that rescues people in helicopters. I know that whatever she chooses to do, she’ll be successful. There’s just something that you see in people that just lets you know that (I really can’t describe it). We started out early in the morning (40 degrees), but just like my other clients, cold scares no one (except me). We did a variety of images with different backgrounds (see web site for more), and finished up inside. It’s so great to see close-knit families; there’s just something about meeting and getting to know them. Raleigh has one, and I hope the Good Lord blesses the next generation to come. Thanks again Raleigh, mom, and dad, you are special people….

Aren....

Aren was fun to work with. I photographed her sister a couple of years ago, so it helped her decide where the session was to take place. She wanted more of a fashion type of session, so she chose a local museum. We were photographing on a coverd patio, when her mom suggested the floor as a background (thanks Dayna, you have a good eye). Aren laid down and "BAM", the image jumped right into the camera. I knew it was a keeper from the moment my finger left the shutter button. Time flew by, and it became dark, but not before we made some fantabulous (my new word) images. Thanks Aren and Dayna.... time well spent.

Heather....

Heather is a special young lady. Her smile and the way she carries herself is the staple of her disposition. I could also see that she has a special relationship with her mom. Every time she would look at her, she would have this wonderful, natural-looking smile on her face. She wants to become a counselor. And she specifically said that she wants to counsel young girls. Being a high school teacher, I know there is a great need for that age group. And from the few hours I spent with her, I know she’ll succeed in helping these young girls find the answer they're so desperately in search of. The weather was a bit on the sunny, chilly side, so we started in the studio. One of her outfits was a beautiful pink dress. We have a tree swing (I had just put it up that day) in our backyard, so I wanted a few images of her putting it to use, but by the time we went outside, the clouds rolled in, and the wind picked up (10-20 mph). Not to fear, Heather’s willingness and mental toughness truly showed. She braved what Ol’ Man Winter had to offer and I’ll let the images speak for themselves. The session was fun, and the images turned out great. I must say, one of the best things I like about this business is the relationship you form with people. Thanks Heather and Heidi, you are remarkable people, and I’m grateful for your business and fellowship.

Joyful Jonnell....

Jonnell has to be the funniest, goofiest, all-around, most fun person ever. I didn't even use one single joke during the entire session, and we laughed, giggled, and made fun of just about everything the entire time. She brought a friend, which I happen to know, and the both of them were so silly (Monique also assisted when needed, thanks M). We used the natural light room for the first few images (camoflauge as J called it), then went outside (a chilly, breezy, upper 40 degree, sunny day). We then came inside for a few more and finished outside on the trampoline. After she jumped for awhile, she didn't mind the cold. All in all it was a fun, silly, and enjoyable session. If scientists can ever learn to bottle the enthusiasm and joy some people have inside them, and give it to the rest of the world, Jonnell will be the first to donate I'm sure. The images turned out great, I know she'll like 'em.

Karen and John....

We had the privilege of photographing Karen and John's wedding last weekend. The weather was beautiful, sunny in the upper 50's. As we drove up, Michelle saw these incredibly beautiful flowers in front of the church. Actually across the parking lot. She asked me if there was a way I could use them for a picture. I planned on using them, but when the cars parked for the ceremony, they blocked the view. So I thought all was lost. Then after the ceremony, we kept the bride and groom for a few images in front of the church, but there was one car still there, belonging to an older gentleman that had come for the 5:30 pm service. Out of nowhere, he walked out of the church and moved his car. I didn't ask, he just did it. It's as if God told him to move his car so we could capture the beauty of the flowers, the church, and the bride and groom. I was amazed.... The entire day went by so fast, and we finished outside the church again (after the reception). This time it was dark and cold. The church was decorated with lights, which is done every year, but this is the first year, we actually got the opportunity to photography it with an actual bride and groom. I was excited. The images turned out great, and I know Karen and John are going to love them.... Congratulations K & J, may your marriage be a blessing and a constant reminder of what love is all about.....

Phillip...

Phillip was very interesting.... He's #1 in his high school class. He wants to attend a university in New York, and study to be a doctor, a surgeon to be exact. And he's multi-talented; playing two instruments, as well as soccer. The session went well, and there were many great images. I think mom will like them a lot.

Mr. Madison....

This year CK sponsored the Mr. Madison Contest. It's the male version of a beauty and talent pageant. Devin was this year's winner. Devin is a great young man. He is one of the most compliant and respectful young adults I've ever met. On top of that, he is a phenomenal athlete. He accepted a full-scholarship in football to the University of Arkansas. Devin's overcome tremendous adversity this year. During the sixth game of the year, he broke his ankle; meaning his senior year football season was over. I can relate to that, because I had been through similiar circumstances in my athletic career. But even through all of this, his demeanor and humility stayed firmly intack. To make a long story short, he wrote a poem about his experience and read it during the Mr. Madison contest, as part of his talent (you can read it on my web site with his images). When you think of Madison HS in 2007-08, who best would represent the school? Hands down, Devin T. Enjoy....

Del & Kevin....

Del and Kevin were married last weekend...Their ceremony was held in a brand new church. Actually it opened the day before and had the official blessing the night before. It's a pretty church on the inside, but they didn't let the bride have her own dressing room (what's up with that?) While the bride was dressing and getting ready in the womens' restroom, I thought it would be appropriate to get a shot of the place where she got dressed. I thought 6 stalls, 6 total in the wedding, why not.... Put the fisheye on and fired away. I think it captures the essense of the dressing room quite well..... Enough of that, the wedding went on with out a hitch. Del has the voice of an opera singer (even though she's not). She sang Ava Maria in Italian, and brought the congregation to tears.... It was a surprise. The reception was fun, and when it ended with bubbles, the brand new Mr. and Mrs. were off to their honeymoon destination.... Congratulations Del & Kevin....

LL aka Lauren.....

Lauren is a simple, funny, & laid back young lady... I have had the privilege of having her in my classes for the past two years... She said that she wanted something outdoors... When she described her dress, I thought "for sure, I'll use the field of golden grass".... The sun was in and out with some heavy thick clouds at times... we got two different looks.... I enjoyed the session, and came away with some wonderful images... Thanks Lauren...

Refined Rachel...

Rachel is a very simple, yet elegant young lady... She's a ton of fun too.... For Rachel's session, we started out downtown... While downtown, Rachel wore two dresses, pink and white.... Each had a totally different look. While she was in the white dress, pearls, and throw coat (I don't know the actual name, so that's what I call it), I saw this cool huge flag draped from the top of an entrance way. It almost made her look like she was a politician's wife from the 1950's (very cool).... We came back to the studio for the final part of the session.... Her yellow dress was groovy.... I thought yellow, yellow, yellow.... Amazing how color can make an image (of course the beautiful girl helps too).... We finished outside because I wanted to really show her incredible eyes.... I LOVE SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHY..... Thanks Rachel, hope you had fun too....

Relationships....

I recently photographed a mother and daughter.... They were so cute together.... the lil' girl was so sophisticated and sharp as a tack... mom wanted some interaction with her daughter, so I chose low-key to shift the emphasis on the relationship.... they kissed, laughed, and tickled each other... it was just beautiful.... photography is such diverse thing.... it can paint a picture of reality in a third world country that spurs people to take action and help, or it can capture the beauty of the bond between a mother and daughter that just stirs the soul.... it's something that can never be duplicated; relived in it's authenticity ever again.... it's a reminder of how precious each moment in life really is.... Maybe that's why I enjoy it so much.....

Jocose Jennica...

Jennica was a treat... She's funny, quick-witted, and she makes the funniest faces.... She can actually make one eye look at her nose while the other stares straight at you (or maybe we both discovered that during the session - hehehehe). She wants to be a Doctor, and I'm sure she won't have any problems becoming one. She reminds me of a dark-haired Meg Ryan... She was extremely excited about the session, and I think we got some great shots.... Thanks Jennica....

Kyann "Pepper"...

Kyann was a blast... She drove in from over 250 miles away.... She heard about us through her cousin's cousin (that's a first)... She's a beautiful, vibrant, and a fun young lady.... I'm gonna let a little secret out (hopefully she doesn't get mad).... Kyann is a "City-Cowgirl"... There I said it, now Kyann if you're reading this you can relax, your secret is out.... Don't you feel better? All kidding aside, I really enjoyed this session, and wish her the best in her future endeavors....

Karen & John

Karen and John were a bunch of fun... They are getting married in late December... so that meant an engagement session... We took a few portraits inside then changed outfits and headed to the great outdoors... I asked them who is the athlete of the two, and by the looks of the first pic, my question was answered.... John and Karen are a great couple, and I look forward to photographing their wedding.... Congratulations guys.....

Fun Family session....

Yesterday I had the privilege of photographing a beautiful family. I photographed Brianna's senior portraits about a year ago, and her mom wanted a family session done so she remembered CK. Heather, the mom, was all giggles the entire time, Brianna was quietly chuckling as well. Chris, the dad, seemed to enjoy himself too. Now, on to the brother, Aiden (hope I spelled that right). I think he smiled and laughed more when I wasn't photographing, especially when I was photographing mom and dad. He kept making some kind of face behind me that mom couldn't resist from laughing uncontrollably. I really enjoyed the session. There's something about photographing a family that gives me hope and helps remind me that it's the most important thing in our lives.... So hopefully those reading this will appreciate and cherish theirs.... Enjoy...

My '08 Senior Reps...

Natalie, Rachel, Lena, and Cindy.... this past weekend, I scheduled them all to stop by and have a session. I'm making my 2008 Sr rep cards.... So I wanted to get some images from my newly selected Senior Reps...

Rachel is a sweetheart... She's bubbly and fun... Firmly grounded... and most of all, very soft-spoken... She's my rep at WC....


Cindy is simply-sophisticated... She's inquisitive... Her laugh is contagious... She's my rep from Randolph... Of all of the schools, I think Randolph is my most consistent school each year....


Natalie is artistic, reserved, and seemingly quiet... Her smile is like a mirror, once you see it, you have to smile back... She's my rep at MAC...


Lena is a little shy, but is a joy to be around.... She makes me laugh with her little mannerisms, and she's game for trying new things... She's one of my reps at JM...


It was a fun weekend... and I hope to see more business from these schools....

Fun Filled Famliy Weekend....

An engagement, senior, and family session filled my weekend activities.... Of course it rained, but I used it to my advantage... The engagement consisted of a girl I photographed a few years ago for her senior portraits... Josh and Etzel are a fun, and happy couple... We did the military uniform idea again (this time it was hers). We recreated the famous "sailor/nurse kiss" on the cover of Life magazine.... Turned out pretty cool.... Then my senior guy, Kris, is a soccer stud... we incorporated that into his session, which turned out fabulous... then I photographed a family that came down from Wisconsin (their little girl was a doll)... I'm beat... but ready to for the weddings we have coming up..... enjoy....

Busy Weekend....

It's been a busy weekend... I started back to work last week, so I was gone all day... Friday night I mounted my new track system, cleaned and set up the studio... Let's just say I only got 3 hours of sleep that night...

Greg was a cool dude... Usually guys aren't into the "photography thing", but that's what mom wants... Greg was a trooper... We started off with an old car... He wore his late grandpa's letter jacket... Just happened to be from the same decade the car was from (1940's)... We then moved on to other outdoor locations, then to the studio... Greg never once complained... We got some great images...


Later that evening, I had the privilege of photographing an engaged couple. Ricky and Layla. He's a newly commissioned officer in the Army, and she's a TV reporter from the South. They were a lot of fun... They both wore their college T-shirts and razzed eachother a bit... The final part of the session, I had this idea to try a flag with him in his uniform... Kind of "An officer and a Gentleman" theme. It turned out so cool.... Gotta go, I have my first day of the 2007-08 school year tomorrow, so I've got to be fully rested and rairin' to go... Enjoy....

Ernest....

My first senior guy this school year... I usually photograph more girls than guys, but for some reason, this year I'm starting out with 3 senior guys scheduled. I'm excited and am looking forward to getting the creative juices flowing. Ernie was a blast... He's a footballer, so we incorporated that into some of the images. During the session, the sun had already gone down, but the sky was this phenomenal red color, we were walking in and I just had a vision and acted upon it. The image turned out really cool.... He was excited when I showed him the LCD screen of the image. Hope he likes them....

Back, Moved-In, and Settin' Up

It's been a crazy week and a half... Returned from our wonderful and blessed vacation... Saw some of the most amazing things... We moved into our new home... and I'm in the process of setting up the new studio... I'm excited... Here are some images from our trip... Enjoy....

Much Needed Vacation.....

I'll be out of town from July 21-Aug 7. If you want to schedule a session, have a specific question or concern, please call or email after Aug. 7. Off to the Great Outdoors....

Future Silver Dancer?

Christina is trying out for the NBA San Antonio Spurs' Silver Dancers... She needed a head and body shot. I photographed her wedding about 4 years ago, so we had previous experience working with eachother. The images turned out fantastic.... Let's hope she makes the squad... That would be so cool....

Baby Joshua....

Joshua was a tiny and cute lil' guy... He loved to straighten his lil' legs... For any people interested in newborn photography, here's the secret... Keep'em warm... Studio temp. should be warm and cozy, may mean you may sweat a little, but it's for sure the ultimate secret in getting the shot.... Congratulations again Donna and Jason....

It's been a while.... Revamped web site!

It's been a long time since my last post. A lot has happened... Photographed a bunch of people, a few weddings, and took a mini-vacation. My web site has been revamped, you'll have to check it out and let me know what you think? We move into the new studio some time in August, I'm so excited... I'll try to keep things updated, but probably after we move into our new studio....