Noland Trail Engagement Session | Newport News Wedding Photographer | Vinnie + Melanie

I'll never forget when I first met Melanie at the Smithfield Bakery one Sunday afternoon. She was excited about her wedding and her marriage, and excited that we got to work together. I knew from the minute I met her that we would be a good fit, especially when I heard the way she spoke about Vinnie. Fast-forward to November, and I finally got to know them both together when we met on a Sunday afternoon (again) right near the Noland Trail and Mariner's Museum.

Melanie and Vinnie are both soft spoken, but I could tell the instant I saw them together that they have big hearts - both for each other and the people around them. Nathan and I got to hang out with them for a few hours, laughing at some of the hilarious things that happen when you're trying to shoot an engagement session in the midst of runners, other photographers, and lots of nature.

But in the midst of joking and laughing, we learned that Melanie and Vinnie love each other. We learned that Vinnie has a special place for his late mom in his heart, and even has a tattoo dedicated to her (scroll down to see it!). We learned that despite his and her crazy schedules, these two consistently make time to be together and build their relationship in view of having the best marriage possible. And that made for the perfect day.

Mark, Becky, and Stuart // Newport News Family Photographer

When I first started talking to Becky about their family portraits, she was all about having beautiful LEAVES in their pictures! Mark and Becky came from San Diego, where I hear the temperature is the same 75 degrees year-round, so she wanted to show off some of the beautiful fall colors here in Virginia. And I think we accomplished that goal!

Stuart is special to me, because he is almost exactly the same age as my niece. He's in a very fun stage, and just loves his mom and dad. He couldn't have looked more adorable in his little plaid shirt, and we spent the day roaming the Noland Trail while he discovered some new and exciting places to explore.

Mark and Becky, thanks for letting me tag along during your family time! And thanks for picking out some of the best outfits I've seen this year :) You three make such a wonderful family, and I can only hope that the pictures you now have reflect the joy that is there whenever you are all together.