michelle e malone photography

Throw Your Hands Up!

2011-03-07T00:15:00.000-05:00

I shot a wedding today at the White Room in St Augustine... Usually the bride is the center of attention, but this was different. During the reception the bride and bridesmaids started a game of sorts, making various unsuspecting guests the center of attention. The girls would gather together and decide who they wanted to rush... Then they ran over to that person surrounded them and started dancing and shouting out their names... like a mini mobile party. This was fun to shoot! In anticipation of the next shot, I was watching the brides body language, then I saw her lips say to the 8 girls the next name... "Michelle the photographer" and they all came running towards me, and surrounded me dancing... I threw my hands up and danced as they shout "Go Michelle! Go Michelle!" I had a blast! Congratulations Jessica and Lee! Thanks for inviting us to capture your special day! Sneak Peak soon to follow!

Facebook vs. Blog

2011-03-03T08:12:00.000-05:00

In an attempt to move with the wave of communication advancement (and trying to balance home schooling, photography and my house) I abandoned blogging and started simply uploading pictures to facebook (and tagging)... But I miss it! I miss writing! As simple as each write up was, it served as a huge creative outlet for me. So... I'm back!
Prepare to be updated and inspired by the thoughts behind the images and the stories behind the faces.

O-H-I-O

2010-08-16T13:30:00.000-04:00

June 16th... the anticipation was building... after a one year, long-distance relationship, I would finally meet bride and groom to be, Melissa and Kevin of Ohio.

Seeing Melissa for the first time was like being reunited with an old friend. There was an instant level of comfort and ease that translated into their radiant engagement pictures.

Two days later, June 18th, we shot their destination wedding on St Augustine Beach. The couple shared the beginning of their new life as husband and wife with a close group of family and friends. It was a pleasure meeting you both, hopefully our paths will cross again!

Dreams Do Come True

2010-08-03T23:19:00.000-04:00

Many girls dream of a fairytale wedding day, but planning every detail to perfection... that takes a lot of work. Kandra, graduating and marrying within weeks of each other, pulled it off effortlessly. From the live Orchestra to the personalized bottles of water to keep guests cool and refreshed during the outdoor wedding, every small element was thought out.

On May 22, Ron and Kandra married at the World Golf Hall of Fame in St Augustine FL. There reception followed in the Legends Ballroom and there was not a dull moment through the night. The first dance was beautiful and serene then with a deliberate switch of music, both the bride and groom brought back old school dances like the running man, kid and play, cabbage patch, macarena... guests burst into laughter and were floored. The night proceeded with a couple of surprises tucked away and then the couple was sent off with sparklers.

Coy and I had fun shooting your wedding and hope that you two prosper in everything you put your hands to.

"Today I Will Marry My Friend"

2010-07-28T23:23:00.009-04:00

Blessed with two beautiful children and a love that has grown stronger with time, Tyshenia and Rennard decided to seal their relationship with a commitment to marriage.
On May 8th it seemed the odds were against them, vendors running late forced last minute decisions and pushed back the wedding start time, but a Church full of family and friends waited patiently... and the wait was worth it ... "The bride is coming! The bride is coming!" announced an adorable young boy as he rang a bell down the isle. This was the moment everyone had been waiting for! Rennard wiping tears from his eyes and Tyshenia glowing, the two joined as one and celebrated through the night. We wish you the best!

When a Man Loves a Woman

2010-05-13T09:40:00.012-04:00

On April 17th, at Oakleaf Plantation I shot an elegant lawn wedding. Between shooting the glamorous bride and her fataher walking down the isle, I looked over to the groom. He watched Ashley intently, anticipating her by his side, overwhelmed, Len tilted his head back and turned his eyes toward heaven to hold back a flood of emotion. With that one gesture I understood the immense love and appreciation he had for her and they for one another.

Ashley and Len, you two compliment each other in a beautiful way. I pray your opposites are always attractive and that your similarities thrive. Coy and I wish you the best.

Character and Faithfulness

2010-05-08T11:03:00.002-04:00

Although their song was a kiss to build a dream on, by listening to friends, family and the wedding toast, Jonathan and Sondra are highly admired for the strong character and steadfast faithfulness they live out in day to day life. So i have taken it upon myself to say, they have the foundation needed to build a dream... a life on. Coy and I pray that your wishes hopes and dreams flourish in this new journey as one.

One Love

2010-04-20T09:31:00.006-04:00

Amy and Matt, along with a handful of family and friends, left their everyday in Illinois and headed south for a destination wedding in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. On Wednesday March 31st, late in the afternoon, they exchanged vows on a quiet, private strip of beach and began their life as "one love".

April Showers Bring May Flowers

2010-03-17T16:15:00.010-04:00

March showers, bring rescheduled engagement sessions :) We passed up a cold rainy day and got a warm(er) beautifully overcast day. I have a feeling that no matter what the day was like... Sondra and Jonathan would have had just as much fun!

The two, introduced by a mutual friend seem to be made for each other. Uninhibited, they ran, jumped, kissed, kept each other warm and just displayed a love and appreciation for life that was inspiring. I'm anticipating their garden wedding.

Absolute side note - So, what I like about engagement sessions, is we (Coy and I) get to capture a couple's love story in action... their faces, expressions, movement, passion... sealed in a shot, a treasure forever.

Happy New Year!

2010-03-10T10:58:00.006-05:00

While many were counting down to the new year, Sarah was countiing down to her much anticipated wedding day. on January 16th she walked down the isle as Ms. Alfano, in a flattering dress, smiling at friends and loved ones along the way. She reached her knight in shining armour, we'll call him her shining army man in fatigues. However this day Brady looked quite dapper awaiting his bride to be.

The two exchanged their vows at Deermeadows Baptist Church and were pronounced Mr & Mrs Brady Gordon. Bubbling over with joy the couples recession started as a walk and turned into a skip. The celebration continued on at the Deercreek Country Club until their sparkle lit departure hours later.

Coy and I have enjoyed getting to know you over the past year and wish you nothing but the best as you live your life as one.

"Merry Christmas!" wink wink

2010-02-18T10:47:00.001-05:00

A late evening, outdoor wedding...it was chilly on December 28th, but that didn't stop family and friends from responding to their wedding e-vite and coming out to celebrate the union of Jessica and Michael on the front lawn of the Preservation Hall in San Marco.

The wedding was thoughtful (down to the details), eco friendly and simply classic. Jessica wore minimal make up as she had a natural glow that radiated. She was adorned with pearls unlike her maid of honor and bridesmaids that were adorned in custom jewelry created by Take Heart Jewelry.

The couple asked for no gifts and suggested that if their guests insisted on giving, they make a donation to Celebration Church Mission Fund.

Jessica and Michael took the True Love Waits pledge and had been sexually abstinent since their relationship began. The two were spoken of highly and admired for their commitment to honor God through their character.

Coy and I pray that both of you continue to grow in love and understanding.

Love knows no bounds

2009-11-21T13:30:00.000-05:00

When you find love that knows no bounds... love that resembles that of Christ's, you hold on to it, you treasure it.

On October 10th, 2009, Daniel and Audrey exchanged vows, the couple shared many laughs and smiles throughout the ceremony as memories were recollected and shared. Family and friends joined the reception that followed at the Ravine Gardens State Park and celebrated the new couples union.

It's our hope that the youth you serve will see the beautiful love of Christ in your marriage relationship.

Once Upon a Time... Continued

2009-11-07T10:45:00.000-05:00

On September 28th, Prince Charming, Dustin, waited at the altar, anticipating the arrival of his Selfless Princess, Magen. With the celebration and support of friends and loved ones the two tied the knot and entered into their happily ever after.

Coy and I hope you both grown in love and understanding each day!

True Love Waits... more than a phrase

2009-10-08T12:31:00.000-04:00

True Love Waits (TLW) is an international campaign that encourages moral purity and challenges teenagers and college students to make a commitment to sexual abstinence until marriage. Some say it's a movement, some think TLW is just a phrase. For Jessica and Michael, it's a way of life a reflection of their relationship. The two have been dating for years, early in their relationship they took the TLW pledge, and have been true to it. On December 28th, 2009 their engagement will come to an end and a celebration of new life as two individuals become one in the sight of God and man will begin. Stay tuned for more of their love story.

September 11th

2009-09-24T00:30:00.001-04:00

Steven proposed, Kasey accepted, the two knew when they wanted to get married, so their decision was to either plan a wedding in 2 months or wait a year and 2 months. They took the challenge and in eight weeks, planned a destination wedding.

On September 11th, Savannah natives, firefighter Steven Parsh and former military turned civilian hottie Kasey Black made their vows. In the middle of creating joyful memories these two heros remembered the 343 New York Firefighters lost at the World Trade Center on September 11th, 2001 and the aftermath. One of the ways they chose to honor the lost was to erect three hundred and forty three flags in the sand. Coy and I arrived early on the grounds to shoot and although I knew the flags would be there, as a New York native myself and having watched coverage of 9-11-01 the day prior, it was a sobering sight to see.

Their wedding was quaint, thoughtful... beautiful. We wish you the best of life and love... and hope you one day make a boy.

A gift from a stranger

2009-08-29T05:17:00.001-04:00

Sunday afternon, braving the heat we headed to beach with Tyshenia and Rennard. After a brief detour through Jacksonville and Atlantic Beach we finally arrived at our shoot location... Neptune Beach.

Tyshenia and Rennard chose the beach for their engagement session and shared with us that although they have done many things together as a couple, this was their first time at the beach. As fate would have it, it was made memorable by an engagement gift (I'm not telling what it was) given by a perfect stranger.... that was too crazy!

Ty and Rennard are laid back and easy going, the shoot followed suit. Their love is tested, polished and mature. Walking along the water hand in hand, sitting and enjoying the rare cool ocean breeze, we captured the essence of their relationship with ease.

We can harldy wait to see how your wedding unfolds.

Yawn, stretch, get ready...

2009-08-29T03:00:00.000-04:00

Yawn, stretch, get ready to for a 7am shoot!

We pulled up in front of the San Marco Theatre last Saturday and met up with Len and Ashley to shoot their engagement session. Arriving that early allowed us to beat the heat, the weekend hustle and bustle and even the majority of coffee sippers and deli goers. With the streets virtually to ourselves, we shot a variety of backgrounds.

The saying, time flies when you're having fun was evident that morning! Where did 2 hours go? If laughter is good like medicine, it doesn't matter what turn Obama's Health Care Plan takes, Len and Ashley will be in perfect health.

I laughed through the shoot as if I were at a comedy show! Len was hilarious trying out his "new material" on us. I thought for sure that he did comedy or was a radio personality but no, at work not many people get to see that side of him. What a treat for those who do.

Ashley is a natural beauty radiating grace. I was truly perplexed when she shared that she does not have many pictures of herself. I would have one framed on every wall, but I guess that would be vain and she is anything but.

We are looking forward to your wedding day!

Once upon a time...

2009-08-28T13:48:00.008-04:00

On August 18th Magen and Dustin were busy finalizing the details of their wedding. In the midst of the day was their engagement session in historic St Augustine. The two were straight forward... "tell us what to do and we'll do it!" As the session progressed they were comfortable in front of the camera and adding in their own creative twist, they interacted as if we were not even there. Beautiful!

Their love is fun and carefree, being in their presence makes you want to smile... makes you appreciate relationships and cherish the non material joys of life. I can't get enough of that!

On September 28th, 2009 a fanciful and elegant wedding will take place and this charming prince and selfless princess will make a commitment to love, cherish, honor and respect from that day forward til death do them part... stay tuned for the rest of their happily ever after love story.

Ole Sweet Tooth!

2009-08-06T13:21:00.010-04:00

Some things you remember because you have photos or video, other things you remember because they were awesome or life altering or just sweet! As an adult I can think back to my childhood and I have the sweetest memories…. literally!

My mom would bring home small brown bags filled with Big Bol Bubble Gum and all sorts of sweets I liked, usually she would distribute them two or three at a time under my pillow, in my lunch bag, if I ate all my dinner...

As a result, I have a serious sweet tooth that has not grown up into peppermints and Ferrero Rocher Chocolates, Godiva and more mature candies…. I still yield to Now and Laters, Peanut M&M’s, Tiny Size Fruit Flavored Chiclets, and the like.

I would have celebrated this sweet tooth at our wedding (8 years ago) if I knew of the popular trend of candy buffets. Candy Creations a company based in Jacksonville Fl puts together candies and chocolates (old school and new) in beautiful glass displays. They special order the candies to match your wedding colors. When the buffet is open, your guests can fill their customized candy bags with their choice of sweets. Candy Creations also has fruit buffets, if you’re not into candy.

If you want more info or a quote call 904-710-2524 or e-mail them at klang10976@att.net. And tell them where you heard about them!

Platinum Wedding

2009-07-08T21:19:00.010-04:00

On June 13th amidst smiles and sniffling through tears, Tangeia and Melvin before their guests and God celebrated a new life as one. They brought a touch of Platinum Weddings to Jacksonville Florida.

Tangeia and Melvin danced to "At Last", they moved elegantly, it was traditional, it was beautiful... then halfway through, the song came to a screeching halt. My first thought "The DJ must be a rookie!" But no, he was on point. Mouths dropped open as an Old School Hip Hop song replaced "At Last" and the couple brought back an array of dances including the running man and the kid and play. The guests were clapping, laughing and amazed. Then just as suddenly, the music screeched and went back to "At Last", the couple did not miss a beat, picking up right where they left off, finishing their dance in style.

To remind their guests that "Love Is Sweet" toward the end of the reception, the couple opened up their "Sweet Shoppe", a 7 foot table adorned with candy of every kind in the uniting wedding color scheme, and flavors, (Espresso, Peach and Ivory). It was definately a Platinum (Extravagant) Wedding.

Tangeia and Melvin, Coy and I wish you the best in your journey through a new life as one.

Dear Bride

2009-07-08T20:52:00.003-04:00

There is a common phrase that accompanies you on your wedding day, I have said it many times myself, "Today is your day!" Many brides are even keel, cool tempered, and handle the power with poise. A few take the liberty to attach to the phrase "and what I say goes!" turning themselves into a bridezilla.

I saw something different in a recent bride and it was beautiful. She served each of her brides maids and maid of honor, assisting with their dresses and hair, encouraging them, and enjoying them, as if it were their special day. She was genuinely grateful to be surrounded by this group of carefully hand selected friends and she let it show.

It set a tone for the wedding and created an atmosphere that was delightful and stress free. Make sure you take time to celebrate your wedding party, not just with the common (or not so common) gift, but with your attitude and maybe even your service.

Waiting to Capture Your Love Story,
Michelle E Malone

A beautiful overcast day

2009-06-22T16:26:00.004-04:00

On June 6th, despite the earth being soaked from days of rain, we met Sarah and Brady at Vilano Beach, a regular hang out and special location for the couple. Coy and I ditched our sedan and squeezed our bags and ourselves into Brady's 4x4 and rode out onto the beach for a great shoot. Capturing their relationship and affection for one another was so easy they were in their own world, both relaxed and unmoved by our cameras circling about them. Two hours, one wardrobe change, and lots of whispers and laughs later we were done, just as storm clouds were rolling in, we were rolling out!

She's how old!?!

2009-06-22T15:41:00.008-04:00

You know when you have those moments when you realize you are getting old, I had one. I did a two part portrait session for a young lady and as she comfortably moved in front of the camera, working her "Next Top Model" skills, I thought to myself; I remember when she was 8 years old at my house eating breakfast and hanging out with my niece and the crew! She just turned 16 and is beautiful as ever, inside and out. Chelsea, I hope this year brings many sweet surprises! Happy 16!

Where has the time gone?

2009-06-15T21:11:00.004-04:00

It's been a while since I stopped by to write a blog. I have been glued to my desk chair in edit mode, okay, I have gotten up for a couple portrait and engagement sessions and an amazing wedding, but I have gotten lost in editing.

A friend of mine updated his facebook status yesterday to let everyone know that he is now on twitter. I commented something to the effect of "I am amazed that you are able to keep up with EVERY form of Internet communication." He replied that "It is a full time job!" It is so true! I started to think about my full time jobs, I came up with 8, and only 1 pays.

There is a definite balancing act that takes place in my daily life. I feel bad that I have neglected my communications with you. I promise to do better. Stay tuned for May and June updates and sneak previews!

"Roll With It"

2009-05-17T09:13:00.009-04:00

Initially an intimate beach wedding was planned on the grounds of a 3 story Crescent beach house. 90 minutes before Charlie and Lynnette were to pick up their keys to their rented beach house, they received a call that their reservation had been bumped... Say What!?! Charlie and Lynnette decided that their backyard would be plan B.

In the face of an infuriated mother bird protecting her nest, the couple and their combined 6 kids worked tirelessly all day Friday; mulching, re potting plants, hauling dirt and getting the yard and house (which are undergoing some construction) ready for their guests. When we arrived at their home Charlie was filling tiki lamps with oil (not easy to do when you need more oil than you have and the closest Home Depot’s are sold out). Lynnette was meeting, greeting, entertaining and making sure all of their details were presented beautifully.

Scattered showers and thunderstorms rolled by and by and by. Finally the weather’s dance was done. The skies cleared, tables and chairs were wiped off and decorated. The food was spread and guests slowly migrated outside. Manicures and hair retouched, attitudes cool enough to embarrass a cucumber. A simply elegant wedding proceeded without a glitch.

Pastor Tim prayed for and blessed the couple and the two became one. Two families also became one in the sight of God and man. The banner over their house and marriage is “roll with it”. We look forward to your family portrait session in the coming weeks. Lynnette and Charlie if there were an award for rolling with it, you two would have it on your mantle by now.

Heat Wave

2009-05-14T15:18:00.001-04:00

Almost oblivious to the 9am heat wave, Casey & Jeff were bubbly and playful, interacting as if the camera was not there (just the way we like it)! They took our ideas and danced with them, literally at times. They seem to live life to the fullest, enjoying and being thankful for every moment. My hardest laughs were Jeff's "high school" shots peeking through the trees at Casey and the "pin the kiss on the lips" frame. We enjoyed you two, capturing your affections for one another was so easy... I can hardly wait until your wedding day!

Tag Team

2009-05-14T14:28:00.004-04:00

Coy and I shoot all of our weddings together, but I usually fly solo on portrait and engagement sessions. On this past engagement session, Casey & Jeff, Coy and I worked together and it was beautiful! Thanks honey for being an awesome partner to work with!

S.O.S

2009-05-11T12:39:00.000-04:00

With Bj home for a moment and gone off to sea for weeks Teyonna took the opportunity to book us for their engagement session on May 2nd. From our handshake introduction to our hugging departure our time was filled with jokes and laughter. We look forward to working with you in the future!

Beauty and the Beast

2009-04-18T09:54:00.013-04:00

The Kujawas were married on April 4th at First Baptist Curch of Atlantic Beach. The sky was clear and the day moved along care free. Brittany was the Belle of the day with her white ball gown fitted perfectly against her radiant skin. Kyle was handsome and charming as is befitting of a Prince. Amidst tears and laughter the two exchanged vows, becoming one in the sight of God and man.

The celebration followed at Ocean Breeze Conference Center in Mayport. Guests were entertained by A-1 Majestic Sound and served up a Royal meal of Tender Beef or Juicy Chicken and Crisp Vegetables. Their Enchanted Beauty and the Beast theme was best represented by their cake... so beautiful, it was a work of art!

Amidst more tears and more laughter the night came to an end and a new life began. Speaking for Coy and myself we are blessed to have crossed paths with them both.

Click below to see a preview of their wedding images! (allow a minute to load)

Modest Glamour

2009-03-03T19:14:00.022-05:00

February 28th warmed up to a beautiful 79 degrees with a smooth tropical breeze blowing. Perfect day for a shoot…

Get through the backed up traffic from The Bridge of Lions being raised and still under construction and there awaits the beautiful couple. Tangeia and Melvin, High School sweethearts have been together for 8 years but have few pictures of themselves. We’ll change that!

As we walked the grounds of the St Augustine Lighthouse and Yacht Club, I seized every opportunity to capture their quiet words and elegant romance. It was an easy going time. “Modest Glamour” would seem like an oxymoron until you meet Tangeia and Melvin and see that they possess them both equally.

Oh! Let me not forget to mention the thankfulness of one vagrant man as he called on God to bless Melvin for his generous gift of five dollars in exchange for a bouquet hand formed (by his wife) out of Florida Palms.

Tangeia & Melvin thanks for being open to my creative ideas, trekking through grass, dirt, sand and up grated steps, Tangeia in high heels. It was fun working with you both.

Effortless

2009-02-01T19:35:00.011-05:00

I literally directed the path we walked but Brittany and Kyle directed the flow of their engagement session. We met in Historic St Augustine after a brief delay as I, not the "GPS from hell" gave them the wrong address and directions. Brittany and Kyle engaged with each other and the camera like paid models. They played, joked, entertained, danced to their own music and were ultimately very comfortable being themselves... sharing themselves. Thanks for the hard laughs! I had a blast capturing your smiles and hearts.

What a Question

2009-02-01T14:19:00.005-05:00

I was talking with a groom yesterday and he asked some common questions, small talk if you will, "How are you? How was your day?" Then he interjected a question that is not so common. I was asked "How is your relationship with Jesus doing?" To which I replied, "Good, really good." The conversation moved on although my thoughts lingered a moment. My mind flashed back to the Doctor's office where my husband and I sat earlier this week waiting to see a fetus with a healthy beating heart we were awaiting confirmation that we were 13 weeks pregnant. Instead, we learned that we had miscarried for the third time in this past year. I reflected on the question, "How is your relationship with Jesus doing?" and I thought if I had it to answer again I would say:

There is a "love" that is passionate, on fire, mystical and romantic. "Finish your sentences" "Know your thoughts" kind of love. Then there is a "love" that engages commitment, chooses that even when things don't go they way you plan, when you don't understand everything or anything at all, you remain faithful. "Comfort in silence" "Free to be me" kind of love. My relationship with Jesus has transitioned into the latter kind of love and it is great! I have really relied on Him this week to give me peace that passes all understanding and He has kept me sane and grounded.

Thank you Mr. Kujawa for your question.

Lights, Camera, Coffee

2009-01-16T22:49:00.053-05:00

I met Debra Warren and Richard Wilson bright and early this past Wednesday morning, it was cold, but after days of rain we were all thankful that the skies cleared and the sun came out. I've been in Jacksonville for 12 years but never came across Stockton Park. I had no idea there was such a retreat nestled in the heart of Ortega, what a beautiful location for an engagement session. Debra and Richard sipped their coffee while I got my cameras ready and we began our session. Quiet conversations, smiles, hearty laughs and warmth were captured.

The Resourceful Bride

2008-12-28T11:48:00.005-05:00

I was talking to a bride about her reception at Eagle Landing Golf Club. She shared that there were going to be a significant number of guests with children in attendance. The bride and groom had an innovative idea to serve both an adult and children's menu in hopes that there will be less wasted food. I loved the idea and began to think more about their concern. I did some research and found three local shelters that gladly accept food left over from events and wedding receptions. Clara White Mission 904.354.4162, City Rescue Mission 904.387.4357 and Salvation Army 904.356.8641. I spoke to the director of each to confirm and they reassured it's as easy as dropping it off during their hours of operation, no paperwork or liability concerns. If you are looking for eco-friendly wedding alternatives, this may be a great option for your receptions un-served left overs.

A Taste of Golf

2008-10-14T10:25:00.009-04:00

The First Tee of Jacksonville hosted it's third annual fundraiser - A Taste of Golf - on October 6th. The grounds of Epping Forest were alive with conversation and laughter as hundreds of guests mingled and enjoyed the foods provided. The air was fragrant as 14 chefs representing a variety of Golf & Country Clubs each prepared and artistically presented their specialty.

The First Tee provides the community with a state of the art nine hole championship quality golf course open 7 days a week from 7 am until dusk. However, their mission is to provide a golf facility where youth in Jacksonville can learn the game of golf and the values it teaches.
Respect. Confidence. Responsibility. Perseverance. Honesty. Integrity. Sportsmanship. Courtesy. Judgement

Matthew & Jennifer Morrow

2008-09-07T13:03:00.012-04:00

On September 6th, friends and family of Matthew and Jennifer gathered in the sanctuary of a quaint Mandarin Church. The bells rang and the ceremony began. All in attendance were encouraged and charged to remember these 5 words, "love is a powerful thing"... and it is. The outdoor reception was set beautifully, the shade of old oak trees, timeless music playing in the background, fresh flowers at each table, an all pleasing buffet spread and a breathtaking view of the St Johns River... an atmosphere not soon to be forgotten. After the cake was cut the dance lines began and from the expressions and sounds everyone enjoyed themselves. I hope that the love you share for God and one another strengthen and sustain you in every aspect of life.

Scott & Abby De Joseph

2008-08-29T11:58:00.018-04:00

On August 23rd, 2008 as many were starting to recover from the effects of Tropical Storm Faye, Scott & Abby De Joseph were married at the Ocean Breeze Conference Center. The Mayport Naval Base was alive with music and celebration as the 6pm ceremony smoothly transitioned into a festive reception that went on past 10:30pm.
The wedding cake was created by Angie's Wedding Cakes and was topped with a castle that gave way to a happily ever after ending. A relationship carefully nurtured, a love grown through understanding, a lifetime commitment made to one another. Thank you for inviting us to be a part of your special day.

Choosing a Photographer?

2008-07-03T21:53:00.001-04:00

As there are an array of wedding dresses and options to choose from, classic, modern, formal, princess cut, empire waist, satin… there are an array of local photographers to choose from. Your wedding day is about you. Finding a photographer or any vendor for your special day is also about you. Make sure they offer exactly what you want, see it, touch it, and taste it if necessary. Are you satisfied? If so, then make sure there is a connection. Choose a vendor whose personality type or lack there of is exactly what you need to maintain the atmosphere you want for your wedding day.

A Note from Michelle

2008-06-29T18:18:00.002-04:00

Taking a moment to breathe... there is so much going on this summer, it's been busy, it's been tough, but it's all been good.

I went to the store the other day with my 3 year old son, we walked through quickly because I wanted to get in and get out. He stopped in his tracks at a bouquet displayed on his level and said "Mommy, can we stop and smell the roses?"

I thought to answer, "No, not today"... but I said "Sure", and we both stopped for a moment to smell the bouquet of roses, touch the petals, and talk about colors and bumblebees.

In accomplishing our goals and crossing out tasks on our to do list; let's not forget to take time for those we love.

Jamaal & Shemia Robinson

2008-05-25T19:58:00.019-04:00

Jamaal & Shemia were married on May 1oth, 2008 they exchanged their vows at Believers of Christ Temple Ministries, and celebrated a beautiful reception at Arlington Senior Center. I am ever grateful to you both for trusting me to capture your beautiful day. I pray you always find joy, encouragement and strength as you live life together.

Tips for portraits

2008-04-21T11:35:00.001-04:00

Simplicity is the key when it comes to planning a portrait. The following are tips and guidelines. Ultimately choose something you are comfortable in. Choose a color theme and clothing style that represents your family.

COLORS
White makes for an informal family portrait that works no matter what time of year it is. Couple the white tops or dresses with khaki, black or denim bottoms. Keep patterns to a minimum.
Outdoors against a beach scene:
White or light pastel clothing looks best in portraits taken against a white or light background.
Outdoors against green foliage:
White, khaki, blues, in different shades, and salmon are nice.

See Try to Avoid

COORDINATION
Portraits have a more unified look when everyone coordinates clothing. Choose clothes with colors that are in the same tonal range. This helps the focus to be on every persons face.
No one person should stand out because of clothing to light or bright.
Do not mix casual and formal attire.
Be sure to coordinate your shoes (or lack there of) with your clothing. Shoes/feet may show in some poses.

GROOMING
Simple hairstyles and natural makeup are best.
Men/Boys Haircuts, if planned, are better done several days before the portrait.
Have make-up handy for touch up.
Bring a comb, brush.
Women/girls should be photographed whenever they are happiest with their hair in relation to the time it is styled or permed.
Groom your hands, feet and nails; they usually end up in some pictures.

LENGTHS AND CUTS
Long or ¾ sleeves are recommended for adults and teens, as bare arms call attention to themselves and will overpower the face.
Necklines are important. A scoop or v-neck is best if your neck is short and your face is full. A turtleneck or high-necked garment is more flattering if your neck is longer and your face is slender.

TRY TO AVOID
Avoid logos, branding.
Avoid very wide or particularly deep V-neck garments, as well as bulky cowl neck sweaters and floppy necklines.
Avoid large or bold patterns (stripes, plaid, checks, paisley) and bright colors. They draw attention away from the face. Very simple garments always photograph best.
Avoid large, shiny objects like belt buckles, bold jewelry and reflective watches.
Avoid red; it fights for the eyes attention
Avoid beige, tan, peach, pink. Avoid green outdoors.

What you can expect from us

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Professionalism
Expect punctuality, a courteous greeting and a time of getting to know you.
Your satisfaction is our success, your overall experience will be one marked with excellence.

Creativity
A portrait is meant to capture the moment, not force it.
Many shots will be taken, some positioning will be suggested and it will all be enjoyable.
The finished product will reflect your unique personality.

Peace
A relaxed atmosphere, I'd rather you be a few minutes late for a session and calm, than on time and stressed.
As the center of attention, your time with us will be a getaway from reality.