Linda Crayton Photography

new blog, coming right up!

2010-04-03T09:58:00.005-04:00

I'm not here anymore. I finally got around to it and made a new blog for myself in Wordpress. Here's the link:

www.lindacrayton.com

Now if I can only get to my website and update that too.

Snow, Snow, Snow and a little angel

2010-02-07T14:30:00.004-05:00

The second big snow storm to hit VA was even better and bigger than the first in December. The trees still have their snow on them, even though it stopped snowing yesterday. And we are still stuck at home--Kev tried to get out the driveway, and despite 4WD, he got only 50 feet. And then had to dig his out of being stuck. So we are waiting for the plow--we *could* be shoveling, but I think we're done. 4 hours and we hardly touched it. And this is after the plow visiting twice during the storm. What a fun, beautiful, lovely white mess. The best part was walking right down our very busy road. It reminded me a living in NYC years ago when Guiliano shut down the city. Being pulled down Park Avenue on a sled by a girlfriend will forever being imprinted in my brain.

I met the sweetest little Angel Avry and got to see Noah again. Avry is beautiful. Mike and Erin are doing beautifully. And Noah is going right along, learning and growing. He is the sweetest little guy, still struggling with complications from being shaken at his daycare last April, but he is doing great. Keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

6 days old and counting

2010-02-05T10:08:00.003-05:00

Meeting up with the Wodas again was more sweetness in my life. Their lively home is even more full of fun with a boy and a girl. Shooting two-year olds is always exciting, and this little one gave me the full range of emotions. I love that stuff. And their little baby girl:

2010 starts off sweet

2010-01-28T13:20:00.003-05:00

I am cruising through 2010 with some great sessions, fun times with the girls (including a ski weekend starting tomorrow), and I'm sticking with my New Year's resolutions, mostly.

Every year I find I have to turn away too much business in the fall and still I stressed. I can't manage all my balls in my air with the grace I want. I learned to say "no" much more in 2009, learned to maybe not take things so personally, but I still haven't learned to not be stressed. So for 2010 I vowed to devote some time to meditation almost every day AND get on my mat. And breath. Talk from my heart. I finally opened a good book which gives me incredible daily words of wisdom, and sometimes it talks so honestly to me I am afraid to admit it.

So check in with me in the fall to see how I'm holding up...

This is the third time I've met up with Penelope, and she just keeps getting more and more scrumptious. Just look at her:

These peeps are a riot and I love meeting up with them, from their wedding to their now THREE girls. Go Ruizes Go!

I am seeing some cute babies here!

2010-01-15T12:56:00.003-05:00

January is filled with cute babies, and I get to meet up with three more next week. Now that my babies are not-so-babies, I can really enjoy these.

My weddings for fall are starting to book up. Unfortunately, I've had to turn away a few great couples--I wasn't available on the dates they needed. I think that's the way it goes...

So here's some good stuff.

First, I finally traveled out to meet Elana and Jon's triplets. It only took me a year. I shot their wedding almost 4 years ago in Detroit. Now they have beautiful one-year old triplets. I so admire Elana's grace in handling this life changing event. She and her kids are so happy...

Isabel is a sweet & sassy little thing that I had a ball trying to keep up with. Her best move of the day was "hiding", by laying on the floor and covering her eyes. Nope, we couldn't see her. And her little bro' Elliot was more than scrumptious, and tired of the paparazzi by the time I left.

And on the personal note, nothing beats a birthday party in my girls' eyes, except maybe Santa. And the cherry on the cake--it was a bowling party!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-12T21:14:00.005-05:00

I have to say, I think having a 5 and 7 year old IS the best in parenting. I hope I am wrong, and I hope it only gets better. Our Christmas was priceless. Lisee was thrilled, if a little confused by Santa bringing BIG horses (like American Girl size, not Barbie size). Then it clicked. "Oh. I wrote BIG horses to Santa. I meant big horses, not BIG horses." And Bella. Well she had tears of joy, real tears of joy, when she opened her second gift. It wasn't the gift, it was the whole experience. It really was Christmas, and she really was getting these presents. And it was really was as good as she thought it might be.

I just want to bottle it up this time. Or at least take little sips of it.

But here I am in the New Year already and starting off January nice and slow. I booked two weddings right before Christmas to two couples that are really just perfect together and for me. And now I have a few portrait sessions this month.

Here are some pictures from last month that I never posted. I am under pressure every year. "We can't wait to get your card this year!" "What's the shot this year." After this, I am sending the girls to Sears portrait. I'm not sure how to top this one, taken during the first snow of the season:

And Sophie... the most scrumptious muffin and with most proud parents. Love them:

And one more... my special breakfast dragon:

December...

2009-12-09T23:14:00.002-05:00

Here we are... getting ready for the holidays:

For Thanksgiving, the Griffith sisters and their families hooked up in Sonoma with our Dad. Pretty sweet set up with a rental (thanks Pops), just a few minutes from town.

go O go! CUTE baby

And the Flynn Kids... they left us in Great Falls and took over our place in CA. Something went wrong here.

Uncle Jeffie must give good kisses.

the twins... so scrumptious

yup. Bella made me kitty.

This is one of the best parts of my job, meeting brand new babies. Meet Sydney...

Little Rascals...

2009-11-19T15:53:00.004-05:00

I am headed to Sonoma and SF for 9 days starting tomorrow. To say I am looking forward to hanging with my kids is an understatement. But before I left, I had a couple of kids to go and visit. Oh, they are fun!!!

Liza is a little angel--not quite sure what she was doing with the paparazzi (me).

Oh Adam--it's been a long time since I had to work that hard to keep up with a litttle guy. You little muffin...

Noah--our little guy Noah is almost one. You go guy!

November Fun

2009-11-17T13:25:00.005-05:00

I've had a lot good in my life this November. My kids are doing fantastic in so many ways. If I could just bottle them up at this age so I can remember the fun. My business is crazy as usual in November. Unfortunately, I've had to turn away a bunch of long term clients--I don't have the time to do any more sessions. Being a full-time Mom makes being a full-time plus photographer impossible. Finding my balance means turning away too much work. Next year, I will need to create a spring-time newsletter to prompt my clients to book early. I *hate* not seeing some of these kids grow this year, though I hope I hooked them up with some good photographers...

Halloween was fun. I was hoping to really get the girls dressed up, but they decided to be a fairy princess (with "invisible wings" since the wings were too much of a pain for her to wear) and a hippie, all on their own. Mind you, I think my hippie looks more like Axl Rose.

I started the month heading to Austin and Dallas for the Foundation Conference. Seeing my girl Janet in Austin was just what the doctor ordered. It was 15 years since we had sat together and 7 years since we had lost touch after some moves (thank you facebook). We picked up right where we left off...

So my friend Anna IS moving. To Nashville. It's been hanging over my head for a year now. She gave us three weeks notice, so I had a girl's night at my house for her. I will miss her. Her grounded-ness. Her presence. Her ear. Her heart.

I set up a little photo booth at my house to get some fun pics. My kids and man helped get me primed.

And I worked too...

OMG... Ellie has her hands full. Evan and Ben were beating the $%^& out of each other during the whole session. She can hold out hope the Audrey will be ... calm. ; )

Julie and Frederick are ... busy. 4, 2 and 0. When I came they 2 out of 3 had nasty colds. When I gave them their pics, Mom was down with H1N1. But they rallied:

I got to hook up with Jack and Clare after only being apart 3 months. Daddy is in Afghanistan now, not back for quite a few more months. They were so good. Just great kids, and so much fun.

Lauren & Jimmy--they're going to get married!

2009-10-27T11:30:00.007-04:00

Lauren--she is my me about 15 years ago. Our lives are so similar, it is remarkable.

I was so glad to meet Jimmy before they get married next September at the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club. They are so sweet together...

I need to give a little love to Laura Bateman, the makeup artist. She did a fantastic job.

Ride to Thrive and more...

2009-10-26T11:56:00.005-04:00

My first polo match ever (can't believe it--5 years in VA and I haven't made it to a single Gold Cup) is behind the camera. I gifted a day's worth of shooting to Ride To Thrive, simply because it is worth it!

My So Cool Sokols. I've been getting together with this family for a couple of years, finding new places to play every year. This year we met some rain and clouds at Glen Echo Park. I LOVE this place and family!

The Gonzalazes first met me through The Trevor Birdie Davis Annual Golf Tournament--a charity saving childrens' lives by training teachers in Infant Swim Resource. They bought my services at the silent auction, and have been become regulars since. The kids are just adorable...

Adam & Jen--October 17th

2009-10-26T11:21:00.010-04:00

I've had to two *perfect* weekends in a row and more to come. I celebrated my last wedding of the season by headbanging in the after party and then heading to CA for a girls' weekend with some of the most wonderful women I've ever met. Kudos to my girls for being so easy and kisses to my guy for being there for me and them.

I *tried* to make my blog a place for people to see little sneak peaks of photos to come, but shoot, my clients gets their photos online and then I put them on the blog. I would much rather get all of the images to them and then worry about the getting some of my favorite up, with a few rare exceptions.

Jen and Adam are on of my exceptions. I posted on FB for all their friends to see before the left for their honeymoon. I love this couple, their family and their friends. Just delicious, stellar people.

So they picked a beautiful fall weekend for a Stone Harbor NJ wedding. Mother Nature delivered a fierce Nor'easter, with incredible amounts of wind, rain and flooding. But we ran with it and lived in the day, making for a memorable wedding perfectly suited to them.

Rockstars I tell you!

Jen and Brian -- September 26th

2009-10-16T07:30:00.004-04:00

Jenn and Brian are beautifully welcoming people with a beautiful medley of family and friends. They have a sweet, honest love together and a flair for fun. I loved shooting this:

It's that time of year!

2009-10-16T07:20:00.003-04:00

Here's a little peak on all the cuteness I've got going on in my life.

Beth asked me to get her WHOLE family. All sixteen of them, and a couple of her playing with Ben and Bryce:

Some of my favorite people:

Every year I come to see Charlotte, Jacques and Phelps. And now their baby cousin too:

Oh. My. Goodness. Double the trouble with these boys! So much fun!

Penelope!

2009-10-07T11:39:00.003-04:00

I met Penelope when she was just a little thing, and now look at her at 5.5 months old. She is such a chunk of adorablenesss... Brings me back to when I could squeeze my juicy little bug.

Testosterone City!

2009-10-02T09:49:00.004-04:00

Boys. Beautiful boys coming into my estrogen-filled world. Jinkees. They are just adorable. I love that I get to visit that baby-space, since we know we are done with ours!

Quinn... before they head back to Ohio before baby #2 arrives (no, you can't tell Mommy is due any time in the next millenium by looking at her), they wanted to get Quinn in his hometown of DC. What a little rockstar!

Max, at only 13 months, isn't quite ready to run out on his on (whew) and was glad to take a hand to lead the way. We met me in Great Falls National Park for a little park-play time. He is one scrumptious kid...

Max & Naoh

2009-09-29T23:08:00.003-04:00

It's so much fun when the all come ready to get dirty and play. Max and Noah weren't thrilled to be the object of my camera's desire, but the ponied on up and we got some really sweet shots of their connection to each other. Patience and love go far...

Kids, kids & more kids!

2009-09-25T22:03:00.005-04:00

September and October are always crazy months in my world with school starting and running all over the metro-DC area getting to know new families and getting reacquainted with families I already know.

I really do have a fun job, where I can walk into someone's life and pick up there baby/tike/homekid and play. Here are some of my favorite from the last two shoots:

Avery... only two weeks old and looking more like a 2-month old. I just feel in love.

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Great, great family with charming little kids. I had a ball hanging with them and getting their little smiles... So easy to love!

Emily & Dave

2009-09-22T23:37:00.004-04:00

Meeting a couple on their wedding day, for the first time, is always an adventure. Emily & Dave made it fun and easy to slide right in and get some rocking shots and get all the emotion and love they felt for each, and their families.

The whole event was at the gorgeous Hotel Monaco in DC. It's a funky old hotel--the old postal building. And their band stepped it up. I have to get that band's name to pass on. They, along with Emily and Dave, brought the house down.

And some kudos to Laura Bateman for beautiful makeup!

Here's a sneak peak:

Theo & Owen--100% boys!

2009-09-22T23:33:00.002-04:00

I remember Owen from when he was just a baby. And now I got to meet his baby brother. They are such characters, and Mom and Dad were there to play and chill with their little men. It was cool little session...

Fun with kids--not my own!

2009-09-11T13:41:00.004-04:00

The Lehman girls are little bundles of giggles and laughs. Trying to keep up them and tricking them into getting one shot together kept me busy, but I am really happy with the results:

doesn't she look like Tatum in Paper Moon?

I broke my cardinal summer rule--no new shoots! When I got the call from the Coles telling me that Daddy was off to Afghanistan for a year, I couldn't resist meeting them in Old Town Alexandria for a couple hours of fun. Great kids... Can't thank our men in service enough leaving their families behind when duty calls.

Gloria & Abe

2009-08-29T10:55:00.002-04:00

Gloria & Abe celebrated at Meadowlark Gardens and then headed to Fiji and New Zealand (doesn't that sound perfect)? Their is a wonderful kindness between them, that they share with everyone. They are sweet, beautiful couple.

Here is a sneak peak at their wedding pictures:

Abe brewed all his own beer for the event and they toasted to his mead, the nectar of the gods.

Jenna's Bridal Portrait--Trash The Dress Style!

2009-08-19T09:30:00.003-04:00

Jenna, Mark and Steph just rocked. I can't thank them all enough for coming together in Evansburg Park to play. Jenna's style worked so well with these...

It's been so long....

2009-08-05T21:27:00.006-04:00

It certainly isn't that I haven't been busy enough. I've got a lot of work to share! But I am in the midst of getting a new blog and have finally been taught how to upload images! Wow. This is so much easier...

Meredith and Danny were married in Fredericksburg on June 20. Meredith happened to be one of the most adorably nervous brides ever. She and Danny pulled off a perfect day, with so much love and happiness...

I set out to the Friedmans one evening for a couple hours of play. Their girls, only months apart, were a ton of fun to play with. I *love* some of the images we got!

I first met Declan when he just a new born. Here he is at 364 days old. He is just precious!

Heather and Chase were married at the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club in Stevensville, MD on June 27th. Heather and I finally met a couple of weeks before her wedding. Heather has the sweetest style about her. Their wedding was simply wonderful.

I met Zoe & Max for the first time. I headed into the DC to play with them all over their house and over to the park for a spill of fun. We got some great shots of this beautiful family!

I met Connor for the first time, finally. After many raindates and a trip to the ER before one scheduled session--we meet. Connor is completely delicious, and Mommy and Daddy could not be more proud!

Jonathon, Katherine and Alexander. I love this family. Jonathon is the sweetest young man leading the way for his twin siblings. I loved spending a couple of hours at their home getting into their big lives with a lot of laughs and love.

Jennifer & Brian

2009-06-18T18:28:00.004-04:00

It's been a long time since I've seen Adam Barnes, so it was my pleasure to second shoot DC-area wedding with him. The Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Gainesville, which I had shot last year, is magnificent to shoot. The Whitehall Manor in Bluemont, VA had the best places for photos--I can't wait to see what Adam did with the Jen and Brian and their wedding party.

My job for the day was to meet Brian at his parents home and then get details. The details of a wedding are normally a very small part of what do, something I spend little time on, so this was a chance for me to think a little differently.

babies and more

2009-06-11T22:44:00.005-04:00

Having one weekend off from weddings put me right into some portrait sessions. Now I don't know if I'm the only one who noticed, but this VA has been crazy. It is raining every day, with really strong thunder storms. I've had to either cancel sessions and reschedule, or go for it.

Yesterday I was so excited to have a maternity shoot set. I walked around the lushness outside and found the perfect spot between two trees to shoot. And then it poured from the moment she arrived. Our indoor shots were incredible and fun--we worked it. Unfortunately I can not share any of the images. That's what happens when you work by CIA headquaters. It was a unique session, with lots of laughs. Just wonderful.

But here are some I can show:

Penelope is two months old and so completely aware she took me by surprise. She must be an old soul...

I visited the Easleys over a year ago to document their new addition, now middle child, and their toddler. Now they have three--2, 1 and newborn. I show up and hear the screams and cries from the outside. I expect this when coming to visit kids so young, but the parents never expect it. You've got to roll with it. I think all of their images together would be a perfect coffee table book, because they will look back on it and not believe how crazy their life was at that moment!

And a different pregancy shoot when a friend Marlo and my daughter's BFF came over to let me try some new lighting ideas in my studio. Could anyone be any more goreous while pregnant? And when is this baby going to come and meet us?

Elizabeth and Paul -- May 30th

2009-06-03T21:23:00.005-04:00

Elizabeth and Paul have been together for about 13 years when they found their way to the altar. They know each other well and they love each other fully. It was fun getting to know them!

Second shooting for Chip Hultman let me to open up, play and have fun this time around. I loved it!

Jenna & Mark -- Hamburg PA

2009-05-21T11:07:00.005-04:00

Jenna and Mark had a home grown wedding--right on Grampa's farm in the hills of Pennsylvania. This self-proclaimed quirky couple brought the house down and had a blast posing for me.

Jenna just couldn't be any more beautiful...

love this one... chocolate, vanilla and strawberry....

* Darlene & Dennis * May 9, 2009

2009-05-06T14:05:00.003-04:00

*What* a fantastic, fun, in-love couple Darlene and Dennis are. Having just met them briefly a few weeks before their wedding, I knew they were very sweet together. But their wedding brought me into their whole wonderful circle of beautiful family and friends.

Real laughs. Real tears. And real happiness!

The Archers!

2009-04-30T22:01:00.003-04:00

I met Jack as a baby. I know he doesn't remember me, but I remember him. He wasn't exactly thrilled to have me tooling around his house and taking pictures of him. But that didn't stop me. ; )

But now I came back to meet his baby brother Will. They were so much fun. I wish I had more hours in a day to play...

The Caldwells!

2009-04-30T21:19:00.005-04:00

Wow! I disappeared. Trying to find time to update my site, be with my girls, and run a business doesn't leave a lot of time for coming here. Obviously, I need to streamline!

Here's Kathryn and her baby sister Margaret. Kathryn is such a piece of 3 year old joy. I wanted to play with her all day, and then some.

Big kisses!

The Fun Pierce Family

2009-03-09T09:50:00.004-04:00

I got to meet the Pierces on a beautiful day in March. They headed into Great Falls for a couple hours of playtime with me. Both of the girls did so well, and we got some sweet shots. I can't wait for them to see them!

Carter at play..

2009-02-26T10:33:00.004-05:00

I recently headed into DC to meet Carter. At 14 months old, he is a running, silly, emotional and fun guy. They are fabulously beautiful family. Here's a little sneak peak, but first...

A picture of Carter and me. He decided the BEST place to be when a photographer has come to take your picture is ... on her lap. I've had plenty of hugs and kisses, but never a full-on seat plant and decision to stay there.

And after he got off my lap:

Sometimes you can't get enough...

2009-02-24T22:44:00.004-05:00

I was so lucky to get to see Kristy and her boys along with Katie and her kids so soon. The kids worked me hard and gave me a lot of laughs.

Here are a few of the fun images:

So much fun!

2009-02-22T08:55:00.003-05:00

The Ruizes were at it again with their fun and crazy antics with their two little girls! We had a really fun session with a lot of laughs and bonding time.

They're having a baby

2009-02-17T16:37:00.003-05:00

I was so glad to meet Shaina and John. They are a sweet couple, whom are excited to meet their baby girl very soon. It brought back a lot of good memories from my Bella pregnancy.

Kisses and wishes for an easy birth!

Noah is just two months old

2009-02-15T21:26:00.007-05:00

ahhh... babies. I shot Erin & Mike's wedding about two years ago. Such a sweet, in-love couple. And then I get the call for this little guy. Just look at him and his beautiful parents.

Foundation Workshop 7

2009-02-11T22:19:00.005-05:00

I had never taken a workshop before June of last year. The timing hadn't worked out with two little girls. I'm making up for it, and I topped it off with the Foundation Workshop (FW).

FW is an intensive "boot camp"-like workshop meant to make good photographers find their way to being great photojournalists. I didn't think it felt like boot camp since I never felt broken down. Frustrated, maybe, but I always new that I had support and I knew everyone was there to help me learn. It's really just about a bunch of photographers out there working with each other to be better photographers. The free sharing and giving of knowledge is unmatched. I haven't been to any other experience like it.

The first day was all about inspiration and lectures. Amy Deputy gave an amazing, heartfelt slideshow that opened up my heart. Just check out her slideshow she prepared for Monday. Heartfelt & amazing. http://peacelovepictures.net/ I think I am her new biggest fan. Neil Cowley helped me to find my peace and creativity behind the lens. Mark Adams told me how to NOT get in trouble when out in the field--and how to get in there without question. And Huy told me he was there to make me great and urged us on--he was there for all of us. It's very reassuring and I felt totally supported.

Brooks Whittington was my team leader. His images, vision, technique and knowledge are stellar. He is a bad ass. He cleaned up my technique and then told me to "shoot the sh*t out of it" when I need to. To look for moments, constantly. To never put down the camera and stay ready. And how to edit, and find better shots. After two days of shooting and many, many, many hours of critiques, I got what they were talking about.

The whole idea is too make an interest image out of a boring situation. Easier said than done. I was given Morrow's Performing Arts Center--a dance+ studio in Plano, TX, located in a strip mall. Great people in a basic 3-room dance studio. I loved pushing myself to break some boundaries and learn how to get in and work it.

Here's an image from David Pullum, when he and Vlad came to visit:

And here's some of slideshow:

And Vlad's video, taken with the new 5d mark II is too good. Just too good!

FW7 from Vladimir Chaloupka on Vimeo.

California Dreaming

2009-02-02T13:02:00.005-05:00

San Francisco was incredible as always. Seeing all of our friends made us feel right back at home. And seeing everyones' growing families made us very, very happy...

Here is a few of our favorite photos...

Happy New Year!

2009-01-13T15:03:00.008-05:00

I was so fortunate to have such a blessed 2008 watching my girls grow another year and becoming evening sweeter and more fun than the year before, having my business become so busy I (unfortunately) turned away more business than I kept, and took my first workshops ever (3 in one year). I love that I keep growing into this business.

First I took Kuperskool by Anna Kuperberg. She showed me the light in so many ways. The most important--make my art for me, and people will come. She showed me that being true to yourself makes you less of a commodity. It is so true, and I know that is where I will grow in 2009.

Second I took the Roots Workshop run by Emilie. This was an amazing, thoughtful, and challenging experience for me as a photographer. I learned so much through discomfort. At the beginning of the workshop, they asked what I was most uncomfortable with as a photographer. For sure--small, cramped & dark places. That is exactly what they assigned me to. It's 2AM and I have to be at the 74-year old Four Seas Ice Cream in 3 hours, ready to shoot the making of ice cream. So there I was, unsure of how to tackle this. I changed through this, as did my photography. And one of the loveliest parts was watching everyone else attending this workshop go through similar situations and hear their stories. The insight and beauty in these artists was overwhelming. I'm so much stronger in so many ways. I can't thank Emilie, Tyler Wirken, Jennifer Domenick, Greg Gibson and Arnie Miller enough for sharing all of your insights with me.

First a few of the people that shared in the experience:

Eric Laurits...you just have to check out his stuff. He is amazing.

Now you couldn't ask for a more down to earth guy that... Ty Miller

My team leader, Arnie Miller, and his daughter.

And my roommate Meredith! You can't find a nicer person...
And all the rest of the participants were amazing, in each their
own way.

Now some images from Four Seas: The first just makes me smile whenever I see it.
It is where ice cream goes...

Oh my. It was COLD.
Talk about environmental challenges--setting up lighting in here.

Take out for the dogs...

I didn't eat enough while there.

This ice cream is lip-smacking good

Or nose-licking. ick!

Four Seas at Night--line out the door

The line goes on and on... all night.

Later in the fall I drove up to North Jersey for Onelight. All I can say is "TAKE IT!" Zack knows how to teach and put things into your head. It was perfect!

And I have on more workshop in the line up, and I can't flippin' wait! The FW Workshop. The became a member of the FWForum last year after reading about the FW6 workshop on someone's blog. The forum has been the best place for me learn about the business I am in. The photographers on the site are the best around and everyone shares their knowledge openly. Joining the FW Forum is the best $250 I have ever spent on my photography.

But it's 2009, I'm back to work--and here's a sneak peak at Alex. He's turning one and, much to his dismay, had to put on the traditional Korean garb. Ahem. He didn't like. He much prefered naked as a jaybird.

Rounding out the season!

2008-12-14T14:31:00.003-05:00

Whew! I feel like a I made it. Now I get to hang with my family, have guests over dinner, and enjoy the beginning of the holidays.

Here are the latest rounds of shoots:

The Gonzales family "won" me two years in a row at the Birdie Tournament. We had a frigid day to deal with, so we stuck inside when we could. These little kids just stole my heart.

Their 120 lb German Shepherd was so cute.

I got to meet Adam, and what a joy. He is a VERY active 8 month-old boy that made me work really hard to even get him in the frame! We had a lot of laughs trying to keep up with him.

Carson! Carson! Carson! He is all boy now, running and playing hard. His folks keep up with him and were right there, getting dirty and having fun.

Home from the Desert

2008-12-07T09:17:00.000-05:00

My oh my. That was PERFECT! I loved our getaway to the desert. I got to walk away from my crazy schedule, sit back to watch the girls swim ALL day, drink some wine and chill. We all loved it. Great way to spend thanksgiving.

The twins are priceless

the water bugs

Daddy's little girls

Alex is such an angel looking up at Santa

Santa stopped in to check on the kids

Our Nut. So brave and SO proud of herself. Jumping off the wall.

RW--I got a good snicker out of him.

Our Huntington Beach stop

Joy to the world

Time for vacation!

2008-11-22T10:22:00.004-05:00

My fall has been so busy, I am glad to finally have down time. A whole week devoted to play and fun in La Quinta with my family, sisters & their family, and Grumpa. All I need to do is pack!

Here are the latest sessions.

Carol Leigh stopped by with Gregg to get some shots for their engagement. They are getting married in Austin in February. They are really sweet together.

Sofia. Sofia. Sofia. This kid is priceless. I wish I had 1/2 of her energy. Greg and Nichole are just the best to work with. This was the second year with frigid temperatures. Except this year, it was really windy. They had a blast with it, ran around and played, then stopped at McLean Family Restaurant for a little warm-up. I just love them.

Sometimes the kids just aren't in the mood to play with the camera. But Mireille and Culin warmed up to it and we got some adorable family pictures all over their new home. I can't believe how much Mireille has changed over the past year. She went from being an adorable toddler to a beautiful little girl. And Culin--he is 110% boy. So much fun to with. And #3 is coming right up in March. Blessings to them!

I met Ava and Kim for the first time earlier this week. Ava gets out of the car with the gummiest, happiest baby smile I've ever seen. She is so cute. In the studio, she decided to display her more serious side. She is just adorable at 3 months old. Look at her!

More November

2008-11-13T10:24:00.002-05:00

Two great sessions in row made my life EASY.

Sam and Hannah... I have never seen such a sweet bond between a brother and sister. I hope they are always this close with one another. It is so touching!

I finally got to meet Connor! I shot Jamie & Nathan's wedding a few years ago, and here is their first of many (four!) kids they would like to have. Well, Nathan would love to have. Connor was the smiliest, happiest-go-lucky baby. They could keep on having them if Connor is any indication of the temperment they mix up and produce. wow... cool kid.

More happiness and sessions

2008-11-11T07:42:00.006-05:00

Brandon is happy to welcome his baby sister Dylan. Will you just look at how cute she is? Such a big blessing in their lives...

This is the second time I've gotten to meet the Schulenbergs, but this time I got to play with all of them. They are a fun family with beautiful boys (one of which had enough of the session by the end). I can't help but to love the big tears

If it doesn't say Libby Libby Libby... She is flippin' cute. My gosh I got my baby fix that day. She reminded me so much of our Nut.

So much fun! I got to second shoot for Chip on the 1st of November for Ben & Melissa. They chose Glen Echo and the bumper car pavilion for their reception. It was amazing!

November is here. already!

2008-11-06T16:40:00.008-05:00

Halloween is about the most fun holiday ever. Our girls decided to be Cindy Lauper and a Fairy. I've said for years that Bella is either Bjork, Betsey Johnson or Cindy Lauper with her clothing taste, and now she has confirmed it. All on her own she saw a magazine picture of an 80s rockstar and decided THAT is who she will be. We did the neighborhood trick-or-treating for the first time this year. Bella loved it and ran with glee. Lisee gave up--her feet hurt. So she sat and waited on a stoop for Bella to return in the dark, dark night. And she also decided some doors were too scary to walk up to.

We are *so* excited to be headed to the desert for Thanksgiving to meet up with my sisters and their family. But in the meantime, I've got work to do! It's the final push for portrait sessions and weddings.

The Moeller Twins are getting so big. I met when they were first born and just fell in love. Now they are precocious, sweet toddlers with the sweetest parents around, including a Daddy that wanted to be there for the pics.

October 12th--Kathleen & Peter

2008-10-31T13:36:00.008-04:00

It can be a strange thing--walking into someone's life for one of the most important days of their life--and becoming very involved in their lives for just one day. There has to be a lot of trust there.

So I barely know Kathleen and Peter, and I think by their own admission they classify themselves as eccentric. Kathleen is an absolute riot and so good natured. She found her match in Peter, whom complements Kathleen with reserve and genuine love. Their love was obvious, genuine and real.

They chose a pumpkin patch at United Methodist of North Bethesda as their ceremony site and then the Church's hall for the reception--an old fashioned BBQ. It really could not have been better. Her bridemaid's t-shirt cracked me up.

her big melons--she couldn't resist

leapin' brides--in her bridal keds

they were so beautiful on the dance floor. They just glided.

Many, many portrait sessions

2008-10-31T09:57:00.009-04:00

It is definitely October--one of the most favorite months of the year for portrait sessions. The weather is amazing, the colors are perfect, and people are getting into the fall routine.
It's been a whirlwind October.

Halloween is a great holiday. Kev and I played Axl and Slash. snicker. : ) Not many men look good in short shorts.
Nicole is so beautiful, in so many ways. She is completely eccentric with fabulous taste and an amazing artist that does beautiful commissioned work all over. She did my "L" logo for me, and as an added thank you, I wanted to take some pictures of her. She was a great model.

I took the onelight workshop in Orange, NJ on Tuesday the 21st and got to use my chops for this shoot. I LOVED it!

Juliana is so delicious as almost one-year old. I can't get enough of chubby bottoms in tutus. I was so glad to head into DC to meet up with her and Mom.

The Wolks were so much fun and were perfectly suited to the relaxed lifestyle session we did at Meadowlark Gardens. They were chilled, ready to roll in the leaves, and be very patient waiting for the kids to get used to me and the camera. Lots of love in this family.

The Henrys live right up the road and have three of the most photogenic children I have ever met. Will you just look at them? And real smiles to boot. Great kids!

Declan is just so yummy and so handsome and I was glad to Mom right in there with him. Too often, Mom is behind the camera. Years go by before you realize there aren't good pictures of you and the kids. We got them here! Great baby! Great Mom!

October 18th Jessica & Jim

2008-10-27T10:39:00.004-04:00

Jessica and Jim rented a fantastic log home on Deep Creek for the incredibly beautiful ceremony and reception. It was just beautiful!

When given lemons... A first for me--their beautiful four layers cake slid right off of itself. It still tasted incredible!

October 4 Jana & David

2008-10-27T10:25:00.005-04:00

It was a perfect day for Jana & David. Their ceremony at the Foundry Methodist Church and reception at the Jurys Hotel in Dupont were beautiful. Chip and I loved getting to know this couple.

So sweet--their first dance was to a song David's brother wrote as a kid.

October is here!

2008-10-14T21:14:00.005-04:00

What isn't to love about October. I noticed some maple leaves in full, brilliant color today. It stopped me in my tracks. And it was topped off with a day in the 80s. Perfect!

The Sokols are so easy to shoot--they roll right into the session and are ready to have some fun (and show me great parts of DC to boot). Very cool:

OMG. I don't know how they do it. Two 18-month old boys and an almost 4-year old girl. The kids did so well. And so did the parents:

I have to throw a pic of Bear Nash in:

Bella and her Daisy troop had a blast at pumpkinville. Me too. It was fun.

I love newborn shoots, and Baby Declan's was no exception...

One Hot 10th Anniversary

2008-10-14T19:58:00.008-04:00

Sexy. Fun. Amazing.

Gary and Mindy just rocked it. I can't wait to get these pieces canvased and on their big blue wall in their bar. This was a hot session. This is just a little sneak into their fun night:

Time flies by...

2008-10-02T11:54:00.006-04:00

September has been a huge adjustment for me. First, my Nut starting first grade and finding her way. She has all the confidence she needs, and more. She just doesn't like this whole sit-down-and-do-work thing. And our Bug is doing fantastic. She is way more interested in friends than me. And she is only four.

We headed to PA this weekend to a VERY fun place called Girlfriends in Skippack. I see a star in the making.
On September 19th, Brad and Amy hosted the second Annual Birdie Golf Tournament in memory of Trevor Birdie Davis. They raised money for their water safety Foundation. I was happy to be the official photographer again this year, raise a lot of money, and have some fun. When is the last time you did a shotgun for charity?

Brandon tries out the raffle prize!

you have to love th twins... anything for a good cause:

Harrison is the sweetest 5-year old boy I think I ever met... I was so glad to have them come by for a session.

Honor had to bribe her kids and husband into a photoshoot. "Come on. We'll wear Penn State Jerseys and have fun with it." And we did!

The Roemers had me cracking up! It's a good thing he eats his spinach.

Lindsay & Chris September 6th

2008-09-18T11:25:00.004-04:00

Despite Hurricane Hanna, Lindsay had her garden wedding. Oatlands Plantation is an amazing venue for weddings, with sprawling garden and the smallest nooks and crannies. Perfect for a romantic affair, except when a hurricane hits. But at 5PM the skies opened up and let Lindsay walk down the aisle under breezy, blue skies.

Here's a sneak peek at the images Chip and shot:

Auntie made this pillow from special family memories

no lights or power inside the plantation

Lucy & Ruby

2008-09-09T22:01:00.004-04:00

I have enjoyed every single of the Ruiz Family shoots, from their wedding a few years ago to the many baby shoots that followed soon after. Lucy, their now 2 year old, has a mind of her own, and well, I don't think likes the camera. She LOVED the camera at 6 months and the camera loved her just as much. By our next shoot--she screamed at the sight of me with a camera to my face.

We had a lot of laughs and they all took it with great poise and laughs. Well, everyone but Lucy! ; )

Every ounce of her two-year old body is trying to be happy here.

Geo & Philip

2008-09-09T14:12:00.008-04:00

Wow! What a fantastic event. Geomyra, an event planner, put all her skills to the test, and grace, on her own wedding day. The couple, their family, and all of their guests were ready for the show, and let Chip and I have a great time capturing some of the craziness.

love this shot that Chip got--he's too cool. Already.

oh no he didn't...
oh yes he did!

2008-09-02T23:13:00.002-04:00

*sniff* Life is full of many firsts, and this one will forever be a part of me. Our Nut headed off to 1st Grade today. It was her first time on the bus. She was so nervous, anxious, excited--and she took it so well. She was last kid getting onto a full bus and she is so little she can't climb the big stairs standing up...

walking with Daddy to the bus stop
nervous anticipation
and of she goes!

2008-08-28T08:42:00.004-04:00

Here's Chip and his family. With three kids 3 and under (bless them!). Their kids are so sweet, mellow and adorable. I'm so glad we finally found the time to come together and get some family shots!

The Cahills are a riot. I was told in advance that getting their pictures done, with these tomboys, was not the highlight of the day. There is no way that getting dressed up was a part of it. So I played with them and got some really memorable sister shots.

Many fun portrait sessions

2008-08-12T07:38:00.008-04:00

Summer has been so good to me. My girls and I have been to the beach, twice, to Conesus in upstate NY, thrice, and home doing some Girl Scouts camps, twice. And here I am squeeking in a little time to do some shoots--and here's little glimpse.

This was my third time to visit Juliet, and now she has a brand new baby brother. Which, if she was like my daughter Bella, wasn't the most exciting thing in the world. "Baby? But I want all the attention still!"

This is my second visit to Spencer (first in on my web--the screaming newborn with the fluffy white pup coming in). I couldn't believe the change--he is adorable!

Jessica & Jim are getting married in October in Deep Creek. I am SO excited to go and have with fun!

Matthew... the boy of never ending movement and fun. He was so much fun to chase down at his home, the park and then the zoo. Mom is having a baby anyday now, so here's a glimpse of their family at 3:

OMG--this Roopali, Johnny, Grace & Teddy rocked me. They were ready to play and get down & dirty.

Alexander was the sweetest little guy. Here he is, just a month old (but four weeks early). I got my newborn fix this day:

Nicole & Ryan

2008-07-22T09:26:00.007-04:00

Date: July 19th
Where: Georgetown Prep followed by Bethesda Country Club
Nicole & Ryan were wonderful to work with and perfect for each other. Their friends kept the day rolling with their antics and the dance floor hopping.
Here's a sneek peak at their day:

Many, many portrait sessions!

2008-06-20T19:21:00.009-04:00

Here's a small peek at my past few weeks:

I headed down to the River with the Freibergs and their two dogs for a little morning session. I had no idea the Potomac was so accessible, or fun. Fun kids....

Nicole is such a neat kid. She *loved* having her picture taken.

This little guy changed so much since I saw him earlier this year as a newborn. There is *nothing* like a chubby little guy. nothing.

I am so looking forward to Lindsay & Chris's wedding in the fall. We had a great time at their engagement session in the Tidal Basin.

The Davis family, with baby girl in the works. Brandon is one of my favorite little boys in the world...

Amanda and Alyssa almost made me want to be 17 again--they are such good friends...

Carrie & James June 14th

2008-06-20T07:17:00.007-04:00

I *love* this couple. They are so genuine, sweet and truly in love--I fell into the happiness and fun of their day. And their family and friends... amazing. Where to even start. The Father of the bride left everyone crying with his heart-felt toast and left his daughter in pieces in while presenting her a gift --their "tradition". A wishbone. The Father of the groom gave me a first--break dancing on the floor. I walked away from this wedding just feeling good inside. The location--Chesapeake Bay Beach Club.

Here's the sneak peek at their pictures:

Carol Lynn & Will June 7th!

2008-06-17T14:52:00.010-04:00

It was a completely steamy day in Arlington for this beautiful wedding. Meeting at the under-contstruction Hyatt left us with some creative portraiture in the hotel's restaurant. Then off to a sweet ceremony and topping it off at Top of the Town (great location) with a full view of a fabulous thunderstorm.

Here's a peek at the images Chip and I shot:

Priscilla & JP May 17th

2008-06-06T11:33:00.010-04:00

What a great couple with a fantastic group of family and friends. Chip and I had a great time shooting this unique duo and their mashed potato bar.

Kids

2008-05-23T09:39:00.002-04:00

While searching for some images to preview at a workshop I am attending in a few weeks, I came across this image of my Bug in Disneyland. "I want my privacy." Then she gets up and locks the door just to make sure. Priceless bug.

Tahoe & Mothers Day

2008-05-20T13:16:00.005-04:00

proud Papa RayRay

Mer is the sweetest Mom
Sorry Puss...
Thanks girls. I loved our weekend and
our big hike ; )
bootie
bootie and puss
My Nut and her scone smile at our Mothers Day tea

May is fantastic. A trip to Tahoe/SF to catch with friends and then I come home to Mothers Day. The girls and Kev gave me breakfast in bed. It included Chai, the Sunday paper, whole-wheat banana choc-chip pancakes with warm maple syrup. Life is good...

Alanna & Dean -- May 10

2008-05-20T12:42:00.007-04:00

Here's a peek at Alanna & Dean's fabulously wonderful wedding.

Church: Holy Trinity Catholic in Georgetown
Reception: Women's National Democratic Club

Famiy of Four

2008-05-15T12:46:00.003-04:00

Almost 3 years old. You never know what you are going to get, so I got Gabby being a 3-year old and I tried to keep up.

Baby sister had no problems sitting. I only wish our field of lillies

lasted more than a week.

more than just weeds, they are total joy to a kid!

And I can't get a 6-month old near my camera without getting some little parts.

Ruth & Steve April 19th

2008-05-12T12:05:00.009-04:00

Ruth and Steve met online, and as Ruth says "just looking for a friend." They found each other and are so perfectly suited and sweet and happy together. It just feels good!

Woodlawn Plantation is an incredible venue for weddings--very relaxed and organic feeling. I loved the nooks and crannies on the property. Here's a peek at some of the images that Chip and I got:

Ruth couldn't believe he chose the Amstel

Incredible trees on the property. Had fun with my Holga.

They knew they vowes by heart

Could it be Tara?

Their gift? Personalized baseballs.

Molly & Will April 25th

2008-05-12T11:18:00.010-04:00

Molly and Will were the funn(i)est, quirkiest and most adorable couple--they found their match in each other. Running all over DC with them was dream come true. Here's a peek at some of the images Chip and I got:

Their wedding was not going to be complete without a DQ

ice cream cake

Christine & Chris

2008-04-26T08:35:00.005-04:00

This was the perfect wedding for the sweetest couple around--they were truly wonderful. Saint Aloysius is amazing to work in and this was my time shooting at Congressional. It was just beautiful.

My second photograher Chip and I loved working this entire family.

proud sister!

She radiant.
the chapel below the church had incredible windows
the best bridesmaids' shoes around

Alanna & Dean

2008-04-26T08:11:00.002-04:00

We couldn't have picked a better day to be in the Tidal Basin. The Cherry Blossom Festival had just ended and the weather was over the top beautiful. Alanna and Dean had a great session and worked with me beautifully. Their May 10th wedding will be fabulous.

Being there

2008-04-26T08:05:00.002-04:00

A friend asked me to come over get her family in action before her Father underwent another major surgery. I was happy to be there, to get to know her family in their beautiful home...

Let's Go Crazy

2008-04-11T10:15:00.003-04:00

If only we could remember more of the night...

Kriss pulled it off and hosted a surprise birthday party for her husband. In her home. With 65 of their friends. These two are some of our favorites on earth and we had such a great time playing in their purple rain.

love this image. He really thinks he's Prince.

She had the details in place--down to the little red corvette

Mindy is about to show us how it's done on the dance floor

Matt & Nicolle

2008-04-11T10:05:00.003-04:00

I loved shooting this family in their home. They had the most perfect Parisian nursery and wonderfully adorable dog Zoe.

loved this nursery

2008-04-03T11:12:00.002-04:00

Having done maternity shots for Victoria, it was my pleasure to meet Bridget. Bridget is a happy-go-lucky baby with a big smile on her face.

playing on the bed
such smily eyes
I think Daddy's wrapped around someone's little finger...

Alexander & Family

2008-04-03T10:56:00.005-04:00

I came back from vacation with my schedule full of wonderful infant shots. Here's the beginning with an adorable and very big boy Alex.

Spring Break!

2008-04-03T10:28:00.005-04:00

My adventurous little girls were ready to span the States. We stopped in Los Angeles first to meet up with our beloved friends the Chandlers and the Prestines. And our brave friend Sally flew in for 36 hours from SF with her two little ones. Then headed to the Pacific NW for family time.

LA was just incredible. It's easy to love. The girls loved the beach, the friends, the pools, and Disneyland. I had no idea LA had such beautifully liveable spots, and our friends found wonderful places to call home in La Canada and in the Palisades.

The NW was perfect, with much less rain than anticipated. I have the cutest nieces in the world. So smart. And so full of sass.

Pippy is priceless
Nuckle Bo flying his kite
Out for our walk, feeding the ponies
I wouldn't trade these kids for the world
Nut--she doesn't take herself too seriously. Our little Bjork.

Digging Manhattan Beach
Riley--I miss her!
Auntie stealing some love

Alex is one of a kind

sisters
dune time

yummy Mateo
Claudia & Mateo--I took pics of each of her kids at 10 mos. She had the frame

waiting for me to fill.

2008-02-25T09:33:00.000-05:00

What a perfect wedding! I adore smaller weddings at quaint places. Gayle and Brian are a wonderful couple that made a perfect wedding for themselves at the Tabard Inn in DC. The Inn created the perfect backdrop for a wedding with its soft lighting and eclectic furnishings. The nooks and crannies of the Inn were a dream for photographs. I was so glad to be a part of it.

Gayle looked soooo beautiful!

Looking at his parents, you would never guess a 6'6" son...

2008-02-25T08:42:00.000-05:00

I had no idea how much fun I would have... My long time friend Robert asked me to help him surprise his partner with pictures of their family. The whole family jumped right in and we laughed, rolled, giggled, and took some wonderful shots.

he-man did it!

happiness is... piling on top of Dad

kisses from sister

dear Robert...so glad you live closer

peeking in the barn

I LOVED playing with such happy kids

and photogenic

come on guys

I love this...it just makes me smile

a shoot the whole family had fun with

run kids run

Fabulous... at any age

2008-02-13T16:38:00.001-05:00

Having to drag myself into the next decade of my life, I find myself happy to be here. Exactly where I am. I have a lot of look forward to.

Here is my blog. My birthday get-away to NYC left me recharged. Puss flew in from SF, and played it just the way I wanted. Plenty of yoga, museums, walking, shows, more food and drink, laughs, sisterhood, and friendship.

you're so funny puss. now put down my camera.

up, please.

red fmps on the puss. must have.

caleb & dylan--the harlem twins