Graced with a very beautiful fashion soiree

I wouldn't consider myself a fashionista by any means. I always depend on folks who have an eye for fashion to point me in the right direction. That's why I couldn't pass up an opportunity to work with the amazingly talented Grace Beason of Grace Leisure Events and my new friends at Tre Bella at their Midwinter Night's Dream fashion show hosted by Six Plates Wine Bar in Durham.

The folks at Tre Bella had some beautiful models showing off the hottest new dresses from designers in New York City.











And here's Six Plates owner Matt Beason reflected in his wine cabinet.












Here's the slideshow.

I'm a weiner! Again!

I got a bit of exciting news when I got home last night. The results of the Artistic Guild of the Wedding Photojournalist Association's fourth quarter contest are in and I had four images place, making me No. 4 in the world for the quarter. It's a really cool contest for artistic, manipulated photojournalistic images.

But my beautiful clients were the real winners:

Like Whitney Carpenter, whose beautiful face won me this award:



Or Caroline Hope and her fiance Chad, with a smoldering kiss that won me this:



Or Brooks Ann and fiance Charles, whose tender moment garnered this:



Or Eleni Flowers, whose awesome reception gave me this amazing moment:



And the result:



Congrats you guys!

Kate is Great

That's the title of one of my favorite songs by The Bouncing Souls. It's also the name of one of my very favorite brides. Kate and Andrew's wedding was both classic and d i f f e r e n t. Held at the Carolina Inn on the campus of the UNC Chapel Hill, the couple wanted an all-in-one experience for their ceremony and reception.

Kate and Andrew have a taste for alternative music, which was sort of surprising to hear in a classic and beautiful place. But it all made for an eclectic and memorable evening.

Thanks for having me, guys.

Oh... and the slideshow is here.

d i f f e r e n t. Bridal Portraits.

I love it when brides aren't afraid to toss the assumption that portraits have to be taken in a studio, with backdrops and a bouquet placed conspicuously at their side. Getting outside your comfort zone when it comes to portraits can lead to some cool shots and will definitely set your bridals apart. These are a few of my favorites from last year.

How will your bridal be different?