I love watching life from behind my camera: bellies growing plump with life, moms and dads getting outnumbered by children, little tiny humans growing into their own personalities. Year after year, it always amazes me. That’s why I love documenting people over and over again. I last met with these sweet sisters two years ago. I remember their session well because it was sandwiched between four other sessions that day and theirs was by far the most energetic. And by energetic I mean my face hurt from smiling, I had grass stains on my knees and I really needed a snack. This year’s session was no different. They brought the jokes and giggles and high fives and hugs…all the good-for-the-soul kind of things. It was wonderful to see Sydney & Alison again and witness their individuality coming to life.
Tag Archives: natural light
Shipp Family
Ebersold Family
I met with Miranda, Chance and their son Graham at their home in Downtown, Harrisonburg for an at-home family session. The morning was crisp and cool and when I arrived, morning light poured through the stairwell window. It was a pleasure to photograph this beautiful, growing family just months before Graham becomes a big brother. Below are some of my favorites from our session.
Godshall Family
The Godshall Family invited me to their home for a summer evening family session. And by ‘family’ I mean their son, two daughters, two dogs, new kitten, and two very-well-loved horses. Surely the grass was greener on this particular evening as golden light poured through flickering leaves of the trees. Below are a few of my favorite shots of this super sweet family.
VanMeter Wedding
Ike and Melissa married on a friend’s farm just outside of Harrisonburg, Virginia. The day promised and delivered scattered showers but it politely waited until after the ceremony and most of the photos. As Melissa met Ike at the alter, a rooster crowed in the distance, the guests spirits lifted with the breeze and a marriage was sealed with a kiss. During the reception the rain clouds parted, yard games commenced and there was a whole lot of shakin’ on the dance floor. As it should be.
Hughes Family
This at-home session was held at the Hughes new home in Rockingham County. Hilly country roads led me there on a humid Saturday morning and I was greeted warmly by a very vocal dog, chickens, rabbits, a blue-eyed cat and three sweet children. I’ve photographed Ashley and Bill many times before and I look forward to continuing this tradition. Their family just keeps getting better and better…and bigger!
Newton Family
This family session was sandwiched between two storm cells on the Quad of James Madison University. The post-graduation campus was quiet and calm. As the Newton’s smiled and candidly posed, the gray masses grew in the sky. The wind shifted to an upward draft and we wrapped up our session. The result: filtered natural light, rich colors, no squinting and wind blown looks for this model family.
Butt-Kauffman, Engagement
Swartzendruber/Jenner Family
Hartsell Wedding
I arrived at Barren Ridge Vineyards a few moments before the bride and groom. And I’m glad I did. Otherwise, I would have missed the arrival of the soon-to-be-wed couple who casually strolled in the back door, wedding dress in hand, wind blown hair and beaming, relaxed contentment settled into their eyes. At first sight of their freshly decorated tables they both became vocally excited and thrilled that it was here. Their wedding day was finally here. They rushed to different rooms to change and in a few short moments they were embracing and celebrating once again. The wind carried the time away as we wandered around the hills and vines of the vineyards with a Dalmatian in tow. Their family joined and later their friends and before we knew it the sun left the sky and guests enjoyed an epic first dance, a wonderful gourmet meal, smooth wine, toasts, stories, and lots of dancing. Congrats and cheers to you both, Amy and Kelly!
Cupcakes & Cake: The Cupcake Company | Dress: Kathleen Temple, Tailor | Custom knitted shaw: Knitting Savant |Caterer: TASTE. | Florist: Joy Shank Coakley of The Weekend Florist | Venue: Barren Ridge Vineyards
Brandy Somers Photography 