Amelia & Jason's Wedding

What a surprise to find myself shooting my first wedding recently!

It was on my hopeful 'to do list sometime' but as everything fell into place who could refuse.
While it was every bit a new challenge, it was also a great time for growth and one that I thoroughly enjoyed. I found myself devouring 'help' websites on wedding photography and generally trying to prepare myself for this big occasion.

It was a perfect day and one that I'll always remember, so I wanted to showcase a few highlights of the day for you to enjoy!

 

Amelia, the beautiful bride, captured just before the ceremony.

A candid moment caught with the girls.

A moment of emotion!

A home garden was the beautiful setting for the ceremony.

The magical moment!

Amelia & Jason loved the old farm scene idea for there special formal photos and so after weeks of looking around I found 'the spot' and was delighted with it.

Dancing with Dad is always a special moment.

REFLECTIONS:

I'm amazed to have been given this privelege and stirred by the question, "what's next?"

Smash Palace

While watching NZ's Top Model I was inspired by the photographic shoot taken at Smash Palace, so while on route to Palmerston North recently we just had to stop.  
For a $2 donation we had free access to take photo's - the best $2 worth ever!

It's kind of weird how such old heaps of metal retain this kind of magical beauty, ummm.... maybe we also are beautiful when our 'metal' has faded and our 'chrome' has dulled ?      Yes definitely we are!  Every age and stage is beautiful, at least that's my opinion on the matter.

So if you've never stopped to see it, here's my take on Smash Palace.

The single solitary foxglove plant speaks of 'life after death' perhaps?

REFLECTIONS:

This was pure fun photography and could have spent hours here. It was worth the stop.

Family Portraiture

I recently had the pleasure of capturing some shots for a family wanting something to send to their families for Christmas.
Using the backdrop of their home and gardens I was able to create an informal and fun session which we all enjoyed. I was really pleased with the results and gained much from the experience so it was a 'win win' photo shoot!

REFLECTIONS:

• I've been made aware of the need to pay attention to all the little details - they can make a photo or ruin it.
• Experience and time teaches you so much!
• To become a master of something means you've learned to be very observant.

QUOTE:

       ' Experience is one thing you can't get for nothing.'

                                                                               Oscar Wilde (1854-1900)

CUTE COUSINS

One needs to be an opportunist, so I stuck my camera in the car while off to visit with extended family.  It was the first time for our grand-daughter Peppah to meet her cousins Nate and Bela, so I grabbed a few delightful photos while they played.

"I'm not sharing my biscuit with you girls - it's mine!" says Nate.

Peppah and Bela wondering what all the fuss is about!

"Listen up cus, if we're good we might get more..."

"Yep, I know, the secret is to smile and then they'll give us..." says Peppah

"Thanks Peppah, look it's working - look whats coming" says Bela

REFLECTIONS:

• Take every opportunity that you get - those moments will become your memories
• 7 month old babies move very quickly and just do life - no posing!
• This was fun.  Makes me want to do more baby shoots!

Quote:
         'Every child born into the world is a new thought of God, an ever fresh and radiant possibility.'
                                                                                                        Kate Douglas Wiggin, 1856-1923

A NEW LIFE IS BORN - before and after!

What a special time pregnancy is - a time of anticipation and wonder, and then - the joys of meeting this precious little one that followed! 

I've had the joy and privilege to capture these moments, and it's been a most rewarding photographic journey. Not only that but I've made 3 new friends. Awesome!

 

This next photo is stunningly beautiful - celebrating the wonder of new life.

I had lots of fun using a variety of silky fabrics for draping.

This wasn't without a few challenges which meant I've learned what 'not to do', that said,

I think I still achieved interesting photos.

And now...

a big welcome to little 'Zoe' 

born 9th Sept '11

Captured in sweet bliss in her bassinet - what perfect little features!

 

 

 

I love this photo of dad and daughter bonding - precious!



"Mummy, I love you, you're the best mum in the whole world."

A real family at last.

"Yep, I'm the centre of their attention!"

Now for my favourite photo - but then I'm biased - what do you think?

So every girl has to have her toys - "so here's a few of my favouites so far!"

"And just to prove I'm a real girl just take a look at my gorgeous cards!"

So finally, a huge thanks to Abbey and Keith for allowing me to capture this very special time in their lives. You guys are awesome! 

REFLECTIONS:

• I definitely get a 'buzz' out of creating beautiful moments.
• Work precedes rewards!
• I love the energy and vitality that new friends bring to your life.

Quote:

'In the world of photography, you get to share a captured moment with other people.'

                                                                                                                      James Wilson