Vercelli Outdoor Family Shoot | March 2013 | Virginia Beach

I've known Solaris for a few years now, and I knew that I wanted to do a family photo session with her and the boys [and Quinn too] when I started doing these free sessions!  We went to First Landing, and in between an active toddler, a dog, and an adorable baby, I think we got some pretty good shots in!  

I also think this shoot has given me some insight in exactly what type of photography I do want to do, as well as help me work on shooting an active subject and/or multiple active subjects!  Family shoots are definitely hard work, so I applaud those photographers who primarily do family shoots!

                             

                                        

                            

Lighting 101 | Becca & Alannah

A few weeks ago, my friend and mentor, Devon Shanor (who I just started an internship with recently!!!) held a small lighting class that I attended.  We met up in Hampton at Fort Monroe and took some great shots of two lovely young ladies who were brave enough to shoot in the windy cold with us!  We started out with some shots as the sun was setting and as if that wasn't enough, Devon let us use her lighting gear!  I have a huge appreciation for flash photography now because it can be difficult!  There is a lot that goes into shooting at night and using all kinds of different gear to "get the shot" you want!  I had a blast hanging out with the ladies and photographing our two models, who did a great job and made it so fun!  Check out some of my shots:

Of course I adore photographing in natural light [especially during "the golden hour"), BUT I also love using flash!  I love that you can manipulate where shadows fall on and off.  Flash can help create some pretty amazing stuff!

Shooting at Sunrise: Rachel R.

I applaud any and all photographers who have the motivation to wake before the sun rises. I know it is because the lighting is amazing just after the sun comes up; I know this because I decided to try it out! Let me tell you, I think I prefer the light after the sun comes UP over the light just before it goes DOWN! 

Last weekend, I tore myself from my warm, comfortable bed to drive to Virginia Beach, pick up my model, and get us to the beach! We made it in time, and it was so worth it! The lighting really was amazing, and while it was a bit cold and windy, Rachel was a trooper and gave me some great shots! This won't be the last time I do this to a model, but I can tell you...it may be a while before it happens! Check out some of my shots, and let me know what you think [if you so wish to do so]!