Best of 2013 // Hampton Roads Photographer

I have LITERALLY been looking forward to this post the whole year (Parks & Rec, anyone?). With each portrait session and wedding, I've become a stronger, more confident photographer who can deliver better images. I'll be honest - launching my business was terrifying! And really, it still is. I get nervous before each portrait session, and before each wedding, and every time I get a new inquiry...the list goes on. I've realized, though, that I'm not nervous because I'm afraid I can't deliver stunning images. It's because I want to get better each time I click the shutter, and I want each of you to see that progress.

I know I can tell my improvement throughout the year, and I hope you can, too. I'm excited for 2014 and all that it will bring. Have a wonderful New Year and enjoy some of my favorites from 2013!

(I Had) A Very Merry Christmas // Hampton Roads Photographer

Each year Christmas looks a little bit different, and each year I love it for different reasons! This year I especially loved seeing out of town family who traveled to us to celebrate, and watching my niece open presents for the very first time. She actually got the hang of it (besides sticking all the wrapping paper straight into her mouth)! We even celebrated a little differently with Nathan's family, and had a blast at the Cheesecake Factory and the movies, which I've never done before. Who can say no to cheesecake, though?!

We finally got to take some family pictures this Christmas, too! I only had a couple minutes, but I was able to capture a few sweet moments before we sat down and got way too full with way too much food in record time.

And thanks to my family for putting up me while I herded them into the backyard right before we were about to dig in. Y'all are the best.

First up is my sister and her boyfriend :)

My aunt and uncle who came up just to visit for Christmas!

My younger sister is SENIOR this year.

Here are my parents, who celebrated their 30th anniversary this year!

And finally, my brother, his wife, and my sweet little niece

Ryan & Dani // Hampton Roads Family Photographer

One of the worst things about being a photographer is simply remembering to get your picture taken! Sure, I have tons of cell phone pictures of Nathan, myself, and Lilo, but since our wedding, we've never had professional pictures taken. If you know me at all, you know I'm a HUGE advocate of having a photographer take your family pictures throughout your life. There is something really sweet about 'home made' pictures and I cherish those, but there's nothing like having pictures you're proud to print, frame, and send to your family and friends.

Dani was in the same boat as me until recently - she is also a photographer, and has never had family pictures taken. So last Saturday we bit the bullet and traded sessions. I am in LOVE with Ryan & Dani's family pictures. Their sweet little grace has such blue eyes and the funniest expressions. In between a few tears, we all had a blast, and I got to capture some truly special moments. In the meantime, Nathan and I finally had our pictures taken as well!

Ryan and Dani, thanks so much for trusting me with your family's pictures, and I can't wait to see how Grace grows over the years!

Also, congratulations to Lisa and her boys for winning my portrait giveaway! Can't wait to take pictures of your family and your sweet puppy soon! Thank you so much to all those who entered. Check your email for a little New Years gift from me :)