Artistic Moments by Beth

Melissa & Ian's e-session

2010-11-11T23:14:00.002-05:00

Melissa and Ian joined me in my town, which is also Melissa's hometown, to take the pictures in the video below. I has so much fun photographing these two! Check it out below!

Melissa and Ian, congratulations on your engagement!

Vicki-- Class of 2011

2010-11-11T11:50:00.001-05:00

Congratulations, Vicki! Best wishes for a fantastic senior year! THe trip to Paris in a few weeks definitely qualifies as FANTASTIC. Have fun!

Maria and Nick--e-session

2010-11-10T14:41:00.002-05:00

Maria and Nick met me at the North Shore to take a few engagement photos. The North Shore happens to be a great spot for these and this couple is so awesome to work with for this photos. I can not wait to take their wedding photos next June! Below is a little video of the session.

Tim and Sarah-- August 20, 2010

2010-08-25T02:31:00.004-04:00

Tim and Sarah were married this past Friday at the First Presbyterian Church in Beaver in a beautiful ceremony. The reception was held at SNPJ with many people hitting the dance floor to the music played by the ever entertaining, Scott Miser of Magic Moments DJ Service. The bride and groom chose to do the traditional money dance to multiple polkas and many napkins twirling. I think Sarah had to be exhausted after that one! It didn't take long for Tim to break through that circle of people surrounding Sarah. He wanted to get to his wife! Very cool tradition...

I have to say this again. I love seeing my former students getting married and I love being able to capture their day for them in pictures. It is quite the honor and I am so happy to be there for them!

Tim and Sarah, I wish you both the very best. Congratulations! I hope you enjoy this video of a few of the pictures from the day!

Susan and Chris--August 14, 2010

2010-08-20T10:54:00.002-04:00

I spent last Saturday at the Doubletree Hotel Airport from start to finish to photograph Chris and Susan's wedding day. What a day it was! Lots of people who had lots of fun attended this one.

Check out the video below to see their very fun wedding party and everyone having fun! Susan and Chris, best wishes always and congratulations! Thank you for having me capture your day through pictures!

Brett and Julie-- July 30, 2010

2010-08-04T10:39:00.001-04:00

It was so great to spend Friday with Brett and Julie. They are so fun and just love to be together...a perfect day! Below is a video of a few of the pictures that we too that day. A huge thank you to Shawn for helping out at this one!

Brett and Julie, best wishes to you always!

Vince & Erin's e-session

2010-08-03T18:02:00.002-04:00

I also met with Vince and Erin in July as well. I am so blessed to meet so many wonderful people through photography. I am even more blessed to see former students (whether I've had them in a class, study hall, or fussed over pictures of them for yearbook) getting married. I must say that I love seeing Erin so happy. I also love that she found a guy with a great sense of humor! Vince is a funny guy!

Best wishes to you both. Enjoy the planning over these last couple of months. It will all be worth it when you are enjoying your day in November!

Melissa & Jeremy -- e-session

2010-08-03T15:42:00.003-04:00

Melissa and Jeremy met me in July to do their e-session. I am so looking forward to their wedding next June! Melissa was one of my editors back in the day and I am so happy to see her so happy! I know she loves pictures, so here is a video of some of the pictures from that day. I hope you two had fun...I did.

You know, I love those baseball photos! :)

Elsa and Isaac-- July 24, 2010

2010-08-01T12:17:00.002-04:00

Elsa and Isaac...I have known these two from their high school days. They were a couple then and I am happy to have had the opportunity to photograph these two saying their wedding vows in a beautiful ceremony at First Presbyterian Church. After the ceremony, we went to Wilson Avenue to take some pictures where these two grew up before we went to Seven Oaks Country Club for the reception. What a great time everyone had!

Elsa and Isaac...I wish you both the very best as you begin your life together as a married couple. Best wishes...always!

Susan and Chris- e-session

2010-07-21T22:21:00.003-04:00

This great couple met me on a very warm, humid, and sunny afternoon to take these pictures. We checked out a few places and took many pictures but they hung in there with me. Thanks, Susan and Chris! I hope you had fun! I am looking forward to your wedding in August. It is going to be fun!

Congratulations! I hope you enjoy this video of some of the photos from the session.

Craig and Sarah-- June 12, 2010

2010-06-18T17:35:00.003-04:00

Sarah and Craig, more commonly known as Buddy, had a beautiful wedding day! I met them in the morning at Zugliani's for some fun "getting ready" pictures. Since everything was around town, I then met them a little later at the beautiful Todd House.Following that, we went straight to First Presbyterian Church in Beaver...beautiful ceremony...then to Seven Oaks for a fantastic reception. Everyone was having a great time. Why not? when Buddy and Sarah had Shutterbooth there. This thing is always a hit! Take the link and see the pic of the week for 6/14...those two were at this wedding!

It was a gorgeous day and Buddy and Sarah had a gorgeous wedding. I wish you both the very best! Below is a little video from the day. I hope you enjoy it!

Jes & Jamie-- May 29,2010

2010-06-02T15:30:00.002-04:00

Jes and Jamie were married on Saturday in a beautiful outdoor ceremony at Shadow Lakes Country Club in Aliquippa,PA. The ceremony began around 7:00 with the sun nestled in the trees on its way to setting. It was a little warn out there, so everyone moved inside right after the ceremony to enjoy the newly renovated building. Everything was beautifully decorated and Jamie and Jes were just so happy. Truly, a gorgeous day! Jes and Jamie, I wish you much happiness and even more love for one another than you felt during those vows. Is that even possible? You two are perfect for each other and I loved having the opportunity to try to catch in pictures just a few of those moments and looks which were full of love for one another. Congratulations!

John and Julie--May 15, 2010

2010-05-17T11:22:00.004-04:00

An outdoor wedding on a gorgeous Saturday afternoon in the lovely Oglebay Resort Mansion Gardens...perfection. Such a gorgeous day with a kind, warm, and sweet couple and family...I really enjoyed spending the day photographing them!

Below is a little video of the day that I hope can begin to capture the joy of this couple. John and Julie, who are on their way to St. Martin as I type this, I wish you the very best in the future as you begin this next chapter in your life. Congratulations!

Carly and Mike-- April 24, 2010

2010-05-01T16:21:00.004-04:00

A week ago I was with Carly and Mike for their wedding day--a day filled with family, friends, and lots of love surrounding this couple. The ceremony was in Ellwood City at Holy Redeemer Church and the reception followed at the Holiday Inn, Beaver Falls. The couple is just so happy and so perfect for each other. Below is a video of the picture slideshow from the day and it's a couple of minutes long. It goes by quickly, but it's appropriate since that is how the day felt too. It went by so very quickly; however, I have lots of pictures for you though to help remember it all!

Carly and Mike, I wish you the very best always! Congratulations!

Chris and Emily-- December 31, 2009

2010-01-25T00:31:00.007-05:00

What a great way to spend New Year's Eve! Emily and Chris were married in front of their immediate family in the Lincoln Chapel of the New York Avenue Presbyterian Church located in Washington, D.C.. A beautiful ceremony followed a "First Look" and some fun pictures taken in and around around the hotel. Interestingly enough with the love of history these two have, the monuments at the mall was visible from the room's window. Well, the Washington Monument was easily seen anyway! The rain picked up when we were planning on heading to the Mall for some pictures at the monuments so we didn't get to do those. No worries though, we'll do something this summer. I'll be in Maryland visiting friends, so a quick trip into D.C. will work if Emily and Chris still want to get more pictures.

Below is a little video of some of the moments from their day. :)

Wait! Here is another of their pictures but this one includes Christopher's family as well as the picture of both families! Sorry about that!!!

Lindsay and Matt--December 5, 2009

2009-12-06T18:14:00.003-05:00

Lindsay and Matt had snow for their wedding! I met Lindsay and her bridesmaids in the morning at A Sense of Eden in Bridgewater where they were getting their up-dos. That's when the snow flakes started wafting down from the sky. Lindsay was happy it snowed! Pam was helping me with this wedding as a second photographer and we found a few places with snow in the background for the picture.

The ceremony was beautiful and the reception had most people up and dancing! I am pretty sure that everyone had a great time. It sure looked like it while I was there and when I looked through the pictures last night! Below is a sampling of the images in a little video. The link at the end takes you to the galleries which will be available in a few weeks.

Lindsay and Matt, I wish you only the best as you begin your life together and for the years to come!

Hair stylist: A Sense of Eden
Reception: The Timberhouse at Rolling Acres
Flowers:Floral Magic
Cake: Carol's Cakes

Katie 2010

2009-11-24T09:23:00.002-05:00

A video of Katie's senior pictures...

Tory 2010

2009-11-23T22:59:00.000-05:00

A video of Tory's senior pictures...

Larry & Maureen--November 14, 2009

2009-11-23T22:51:00.004-05:00

Maureen and Larry had an awesome wedding day! The family and friends that gathered to celebrate with them all had a great time. I'm so happy for both of you! Thanks for having me capture some of your day in pictures!

Below is a video of some of the pictures from the day. The link at the end leads to your galleries which will be available in a few weeks!

Sarah and Craig

2009-11-03T08:13:00.003-05:00

Sarah and Craig have a June 2010 wedding planned, so we took some engagement pictures to begin the celebration! We went to a few places around town and I think there a quite a few of them that I like. A sampling of the pictures is in the video below.

Sarah and Craig, I am so excited for you both and I look forward to your beautiful wedding day!

Please keep in mind that this is a web quality video. A high resolution (DVD quality) video is available as well, but not for the web.

Jessica 2010

2009-11-02T07:34:00.001-05:00

Congratulations, Jessica!

Danielle and Seth 10.24.09

2009-11-01T22:07:00.003-05:00

I love weddings. It's true. Danielle and Seth had a great day! Another wedding with so many great people. Danielle and Seth had many great moments through the day. One of my favorite moments caught with the camera was when Seth flicked a bit of icing and it got Danielle...before they even cut the cake. Check it out in the video below. Seriously, check out Seth's face! Also, this was a wedding that had a great garter moment . The maid of honor, the bride's twin and the one who caught the bouquet, was in place. The gentleman who caught the bouquet took it to heart that the higher up the leg he went with the garter, the more years of luck the new couple would have. You just have to see the pictures with Danielle and Seth watching it. It's in the video toward the end.

Danielle and Seth, I wish you both only the best as you begin your life as husband and wife. Congratulations and best wishes!!!

Leanne and Jeremy 10.17.09

2009-11-01T21:43:00.004-05:00

What a fun wedding! Leanne and Jeremy have so many great friends and so many family members! All know how to have a great time and how to celebrate Leanne and Jeremy beginning their life together in marriage. I had the chance to work with these two a few times this year including their rehearsal. In the video below is a picture at the rehearsal dinner held at PNC Park. Also, check out their faces at the reception as the garter toss winner places that garter on the bouquet toss winner. It was just a fun, fun, FUN day!

Please remember the video quality is much less than the actual images. This is just a sampling of some of the images from the day. All galleries will be uploaded in the next few weeks!

Busy, Busy, Busy

2009-10-19T14:25:00.003-04:00

I have not been keeping up with this blog! I came to this realization last night while working on some photos to make a video for this site from Saturday's wedding. I have been very busy these past six weeks or so. I am going to post over the next several days two e-sessions, two family sessions, and a long awaited senior session. Of course, I will also post a sampling of Saturday's wedding as well.

See? I forgot to blog about so many sessions. Hang in there, they are going to be uploaded this week!

Brad and Megan's Wedding...8.15.09

2009-08-17T02:17:00.002-04:00

Wow! What a fun day! It was a hot day. You know, the typical Pittsburgh triple H factor...hazy, hot, humid. We still made our way after the ceremony to one of Megan's neighbor's homes who has a pretty gazebo and back yard in general. Yes, it was hot, but we got some great pictures there. Once again, Pam went with me to the wedding and caught some great moments. Thanks, Pam!

Megan and Brad chose colors that reminded them of the beach. The beach, by the way is where they were headed to after the wedding to get a much deserved break! The wedding was gorgeous and well worth all of your efforts! Oh and I have to say, they hired Scott to be their DJ. Great choice! He got everyone involved and had the dance floor moving all night. This group loved to dance! The matron of honor, Ashley, had "Thriller" dance moves down cold and Megan was in on that one too! She and Brad were dancing most of the night and enjoying every moment of this special day!

Below is a video of just a few of the pictures from today. At the end of it, there is a link to the galleries. They aren't ready as of this moment, but they will be up online in a few weeks. In the meantime, check this out!

DJ: Scott Miser of Magic Moments Disc Jockey Service
Reception: The Villa Banquet Center, 2500 New Butler Rd, New Castle - (724) 652-4099

Jason and Melissa

2009-08-07T17:39:00.004-04:00

Jason and Melissa were married on July 31, 2009...one week ago today! What a fun day it was! We had a little rain...but only a little and not when it really made a difference. Melissa also found a really pretty place to take some photos after the ceremony. We headed up to Patterson Heights and got some pretty great pictures.

The couple included a really symbolic sand combination ceremony as part of the service. The pastor did a really nice job explaining that no matter how much someone would try, it is about impossible to separate the pieces of sand that were two different colors from one another. As the sand, in essence, becomes one, so does the couple with the vows they stated. Very sweet!

Below is a little video of some of the pictures from the day. The link at the end takes you to the galleries. All galleries will be open in a few weeks, so keep checking back. If you need the password, please feel free to email me or Jason and Melissa!

Congratulations, Jason and Melissa! Best wishes on your new life together!

Danielle and Seth--e-session

2009-07-30T13:22:00.001-04:00

It was a beautiful evening to head down to the North Shore in Pittsburgh to meet Danielle and Seth for their e-session. Danielle mentioned wanting to get pictures by Heinz Field and I immediately started thinking about all of the other fun places around the stadium that would be great for pictures. Also, by the river with city as a background...Wow! I was excited to get down there again and play! I had so much fun and could have taken more pictures than I did. I had to stop though...we were running out of light. :) Thanks to you both, Danielle and Seth, for spending the evening with me for the session! I hope you had fun...I know I did!

I am so happy for you both and I look forward to these two Steelers fans' wedding in October! Enjoy the last few months of preparation. Since it will be here before we know it, I will see you both very soon!

Note: The link at the end of the video will not be active until next week. Once I get all of the pictures uploaded to the gallery, I will open it up and anyone can see it... if Danielle and Seth share the password with you. ;-)

Eric's Senior Picture Session

2009-07-23T23:57:00.003-04:00

Eric is getting ready for his final year of high school so we headed out to get some pictures to remember this important year! We hit a few fun places for these pictures which you will see in the video below. I also had the opportunity to photograph Eric last December at his brother's wedding. So much fun!

Thanks again to Eric's mom for the assist with lenses during the session! :) I hope you all enjoy the photos. I had fun taking them!

Eric, best wishes for a fantastic senior year!

Lindsay and Matt's e-session

2009-07-22T18:39:00.004-04:00

Lindsay and Matt have planned a December wedding, and we headed out to do their e-session this month. We went to a few different spots and got some really fun pictures. Below is just a sampling of the session. We have one more stop planned (in Annapolis!) to add a few more pictures to their gallery. I am looking forward to the next mini session and to their wedding. Both should be lot of fun!

Lindsay and Matt, congratualtions! I am really looking forward to Annapolis and to your wedding day!!!

Richard and Jackie--July 11, 2009

2009-07-20T10:24:00.002-04:00

I met with Jackie and Richard this past spring for their e-session and, once again, was surprised at how quickly these wedding dates arrive! I have know Richard for some time now and I can honestly say that Jackie is marrying a great guy. After meeting Jackie in the spring and spending time with them on Saturday, I feel that Richard has found an amazing wife too!

Betsy's Barn at Cheeseman's Farm located in Portersville, PA was the location for this wedding. The setting was so pretty! We did have a worry about the weather, so the ceremony was moved inside from the gazebo. Their ceremony was performed by people who really seemed to know them from their days at Allegheny College, which made it very sweet and special. I think everyone had a nice time during the reception...talking and laughing...catching up with one another...some dancing too. Before the reception, the weather cooperated so we could go outside and get some beautiful pictures in this setting and I think we all had fun while getting those pictures. Below is a video of some of the moments from the day. The galleries link from it will take you to the correct website. Keep checking back for the pictures to be posted!

Richard and Jackie, I wish you a lifetime of happiness together! Best wishes, always!

Jake and Shannon--July 4, 2009

2009-07-13T21:56:00.003-04:00

The Fourth of July...sparklers...happiness....fun. That describes this day! Shannon and Jake had such a great day for their wedding with so many friends and family attending. The church was full and the reception was lots of fun! So many people were there to celebrate the love this couple has. I asked Donia to help with this wedding since she is so great! (Click her name to go to a video of the day on her blog too!)

On our way to the reception, we stopped at the lake by Penn State-Beaver and took a bunch of pictures there of the wedding party and then some really sweet ones of Shannon and Jake. Below is a video of just a handful of the pictures from their day. I wish you, Shannon and Jake, the most amazing life as a married couple!

Carly and Mike's e-session

2009-07-02T20:05:00.003-04:00

Carly and Mike met me at the gazebo in Ellwood City's Ewing Park area. We took a few quick pictures there and then headed on to the nature trail. We also got to take some pictures with the firetrucks since Mike is a volunteer firefighter. Very cool!

These two are just nice, nice people. I really enjoyed talking with them about how they met and about their wedding plans. I have to say that I love how relaxed they are with everything. I really think these two will enjoy the whole process involved in planning and just getting to their wedding day! Enjoy it you two! It goes so fast!

Below is a little video with some of the images. I will be playing with them beginning next week and upload the final versions during the week of July 5th. For now, I hope you, Carly and Mike, enjoy this! I am really looking forward to taking your wedding pictures next spring!

James and Sara's Weding 6.13.09

2009-06-20T00:36:00.003-04:00

James and Sara had a beautiful wedding which is only right for such a great couple! We met Sara at her mom's house and went from there to the church. I really liked the church! It was a nice place to photograph the wedding and it was set up in a way that we could hide away and still be close to the front. Pam helped take pictures at this one with me. As always, she is great to team up with for wedding photos. Thanks, Pam.

After the wedding, we did the posed pictures in the church and then headed to Center Township to a place called Exquisite Salon. They have a beautifully landscaped back yard area that can be rented. I highly recommend it! Then we were off to the reception! Below are a few of the pictures from the day. James and Sara are in Punta Cana as I type this. I am sure they are enjoying some time to relax! Congratulations and best wishes to you!

Links:
Pam's Blog
Exquisite Salon
Carol's Cakes

Lauren and Matt's Wedding--5/23/09

2009-05-28T21:55:00.002-04:00

Lauren mentioned that it might rain on her wedding day, but I am happy to report that we avoided all showers and the couple had a beautiful day! I really enjoy taking pictures at First Presbyterian Church in Beaver where Lauren and Matt's ceremony was held. It is such a pretty church with great light. We took a few minutes while Lauren and Matt's bridal party collected items to go to the cars in order to get some pictures of just the couple. These are always some of my favorites from the wedding day! A few are included in the video below along with a number of others from this very special day! At the end of the video is a link to their gallery site which will be uploaded in the next few weeks. If you need the password, email Lauren, Matt, or me and we can get it to you.

Lauren and Matt, I wish you much happiness in your new life together!

Jen and Dan's Wedding

2009-05-19T09:24:00.003-04:00

I had a great day taking Jen and Dan's engagement pictures last fall, so I knew this would be a special day! These two are just so great together and the whole family knows how to tear up the dance floor as well! The weather was a bit stormy, but it held off long enough for us to be able to get some really fun pictures of the bridal party on the golf course at Quicksilver. Thanks to Pam for coming along to take more pictures for this wedding. Once her blog is ready, her name will be a link that takes you to see more pictures.

When I arrived at Jen's sister's house, what else can be said... except that Jen was just beaming with the biggest smile and so ready to put that beautiful dress on to go get married! Dan, when I found him in the church, was so excited to marry Jen. When we went out into the garden to take some pictures, Dan warned me that he may cry some happy tears when he sees Jen at the end of the aisle...and he did! It was so very sweet.

Below is a video with some of the pictures from the first part of the day. There will be so many reception pictures on the galleries, but I already had 70 images for this video and could not fit one more in if I tried!

Jen and Dan, I wish you both the very best as you begin your life as a married couple! Congratulations!

Steve and Shawn's Wedding

2009-05-06T13:37:00.002-04:00

This past Saturday, I had the honor of photographing Steve and Shawn's wedding day. The ceremony was the First Presbyterian Church in Beaver. I was assisted by Donia (Click on her name to check out her blog) and I had a great time working with her. Thanks for your help, Donia! Love the moments you captured!

Wow, what a beautiful day! The weather was great, the couple was just so happy, friends and family had such a great time...what else is there to say? It was a great day!

Check out the video below of a few of the pictures from the day! Steve and Shawn, congratulations and best wishes always!

Details:
Church: First Presbyterian Church
Reception: Crowne Plaza Hotel

Richard and Jackie's e-session

2009-05-04T22:17:00.002-04:00

Richard and Jackie were up this way visiting a couple weeks ago now, so we took some time on a Sunday morning to get some engagement pictures. I have known Richard since his high school days. In fact, he was a rockin' yearbooker for several of those years. Yearbook is one of those classes that you love sometimes and other times...well...you love to hate it. I think Richard, and any yearbooker will understand that one. Anyway, I have to say I am so excited to be able to photograph their wedding. I just met Jackie this day we did the pictures,and I can see why this couple is so great...two wonderful people!

I hope you like this little video, Richard and Jackie! I am really looking forward to your wedding in July!

For a few of the e-session pictures, see the video!

Chris and Leanne's Wedding April 18, 2009

2009-04-24T13:07:00.002-04:00

Chris and Leanne had a gorgeous April day for their wedding this past Saturday. The wedding ceremony itself was in a church that was built over 100 years ago, but it has since been renovated and added to over the years. It really had some beautiful windows. The reception was at The Alpine Room in S.N.P.J. It is a great place to get some really nice pictures of the couple. From the lake to the barn and the brick silo...all of it is very pretty. Leanne and Chris were all about getting pictures taken there too so we had a few great places to stop. Of course, our stopping prolonged the pretty carriage ride that they had. :) It was so much fun! Thanks to Lindsay for helping me capture this wedding so thoroughly!

Chris and Leanne, your wedding was beautiful and I am sure you will have a wonderful life together. I wish you both the very best!

Below is a video of some of the images from the day. Many more are coming in your galleries!

Joel and Amy's Wedding 2-22-09

2009-03-02T00:25:00.004-05:00

Oh...Amy and Joel...what can I say? I loved your wedding! The ceremony was lovely and then to end the night with all of that live music...so amazing! I loved the big jam session that all of the musicians in attendance did. Oh, and, Joel, your dad on guitar...so cool!

Amy, when I show these pictures to people, they say things like, "such classic beauty" and the like. I think that describes your look! You two are so sweet and so easy to work with on posing. You really are such naturals. I guess that is because you just fit...you know...such the couple. I couldn't imagine the two of you any other way. Soul mates.. a concept I am starting to really believe in and I am so happy that you were blessed to find one another. By the way, if anyone out there wants to hear a great getting together story...these two have it! It's not mine to share, but it is so funny and sweet and even a little amazing.

I know that you two are off to London this week for a second ceremony with more of Joel's family and your London friends. Now that will be an amazing trip home; however, I have to say that you guys will have fun trying to top this reception. Then again, I am partial to live bands. :)

I am looking forward to seeing Joel and his new Mrs. at The Boulevard of the Allies show that is being held at the Cabaret Theater on April 3rd! I, of course, will have my camera in hand and may even blog about about the concert. I am looking forward to hearing about your London wedding and seeing some pictures from it as well that evening!

For now, here is a little video preview of a few of the pictures. Thanks goes out to Pam for helping photograph this day too! Click on her name to see more pics on her blog! As always, Pam is so great photograph a wedding with!

Have a safe trip to London! Enjoy this second celebration as well!

Nick and Elena -- January 17, 2009

2009-01-31T15:25:00.005-05:00

I had the fun job of being the second photographer at Nick and Elena's gorgeous wedding this month! I also went along on their e-session with Pam last year which was posted on here then. So, if they look familiar, that is why!

The ceremony was at the beautiful Heinz Chapel in Oakland. I love Pittsburgh, and Oakland has so many great places for pictures. Heinz Chapel is surely one of them. The ceremony was lovely with Elena's dad giving the message. So sweet! I believe the other officiant was an uncle of Nick's. The two had a lovely ceremony for this special couple!

The reception was on the North Side of Pittsburgh at The Mattress Factory...a really cool art gallery with massive pieces including an airplane wing through one of the upper floors that shoots out over the sidewalk below. Yes, the airplane wing was hollow and the sidewalk was visible. It is also the reason why that floor of the gallery was incredibly cold on a cold and wintry January night! The reception was lovely with probably the biggest cookie collection stacked and available for the guests.

Nick and Elena are such a sweet couple...with the way they look at one another,I think I can say they really adore one another! Below is a little video of some of the pictures I took that day. I hope you enjoy it and I wish you both the very best!

Whitney and Michael's Wedding 12/13/08

2008-12-15T09:36:00.003-05:00

Saturday was one of those cold yet sunny December days that turned out to be quite beautiful. Whitney and Michael had such an amazing wedding day. I really think every single person had a great time! The bridal party braved the cold and we managed to get some pictures outside that turned out so very nice.

Once again, Pam (her name is a link to her blog with more pictures from this wedding) assisted me and we managed to take quite a few pictures. Having a packed dance floor all night led to some really fun shots!

Below is a video of a few of the day's pictures. Whitney and Michael, congratulations and best wishes to you and to little Ben!

Jaimie and Justin 11-29-08

2008-12-06T21:11:00.004-05:00

The last of my second shooting jobs of 2008 was Jaimie and Justin's wedding. I have two more weddings to do this year, but they are both mine as primary shooter. I am looking forward to them, but I did enjoy Jaimie and Justin's wedding so much. They were married in a church in New Brighton which I was told by Pam (click her name as a link to her blog) will be the last wedding ever at this church. They are selling it. Hard to believe with all of the great hardwood in it and massive sliding doors in the back of the sanctuary...as tall as the sanctuary. They were impressive as were the beautiful windows. It was a gorgeous church for them to be married in!

What can I say about the reception? It was so much fun. The dance floor was packed all night. Well, except when the ring bearer had the floor to himself and was later joined by one of the groomsmen. This solo dance by the ring bearer was a request from the bride and groom since this little guy could do the "Soulja Boy" dance quite well. He and the groomsman, who joined him towards the end of the song, did a nice job entertaining the crowd.

You'll see a couple pictures of that and a lot more below in the video of some of the pictures I took last Saturday. Jaimie and Justin, I wish you only the best as you begin your life as a married couple. Congratulations!

Liz and Erich 11-8-08

2008-12-06T19:39:00.004-05:00

Yes, you read the date correctly. I am way behind in posting this one. It has been a very busy fall and it kind of caught up with me and I have been and continue to battle some nasty cold viruses. Keep in mind, I never get sick like this...so I am having a otugh time dealing with it. Anyway, enough of that...let me turn the focus to this lovely couple...

Liz and Erich met at Pitt and decided to have their wedding and reception in Oakland. The beautiful St. Paul Cathedral was the site of their wedding that I had the opportunity to second shoot for Pam. (Click on her name to see more of their wedding.) As I've said before on this blog, I really enjoy second shooting since all of the pressure of the day isn't on my shoulders. Don't get me wrong, I love to be the primary photographer too, but it is a nice change to have someone else take the lead every so often. ;-)

The reception was held at Soldiers and Sailors on a chilly evening. I think Pam and I managed to cover the day! Below are a sampling of some of the pictures I took that day.

Liz and Erich, I wish you both the very best...Congratulations!

Lyndsey and Samuel 11-1-08

2008-11-13T10:36:00.003-05:00

On November 1, I had the opportunity to second shoot a wedding for Pam. I enjoy second shooting weddings. Pam and I often hire one another to shoot weddings together and we work really hard to cover the whole day.:-)

Below is a video of some of the shots I took at Lyndsey and Samuel's wedding. They ended up having a beautiful day for their wedding. They also had quite a great group of friends in their bridal party to share their day! I caught them in quite a few fun moments getting ready, on the ride to the church and of course on the dance floor!

Congratulations, Lyndsey and Samuel!

Lauren and Matt's e-session

2008-11-11T13:35:00.002-05:00

Lauren and Matt met me about a week ago now at the old log cabin museum here in town to take their engagement pictures. We took this opportunity for the pictures while they were here visiting Lauren's family. I have known Lauren for some time, but this was my first chance to meet her fiancé Matt. These two just seem to click, as the old saying goes, and I am sure that they have a wonderful life as a couple ahead of them!

We met on a Sunday in the mid-morning, so the lighting was really different for me this time. I think I like working in that light, but I know I liked working with this couple. I always want the couple to be comfortable in how they are sitting and talking or posing. I hope that you two felt that you were comfortable. I also believe I caught quite a few nice smiles in these pics.

I am looking forward to your wedding next May, Lauren and Matt! This is just a little slide show of the pictures and I will be sending you a link to your gallery as soon as it is ready!

Amy and Joel-- e-session

2008-11-07T23:01:00.003-05:00

Amy and Joel met me last Thursday to take some engagement pictures. Anyone who checks my blog might realize that this is quite a lull in between taking the pictures and getting the video on the blog. Unfortunately, I have had a very nasty cold that has zapped my energy! I seriously haven't had a cold like this one...ever! None-the-less, I am starting to feel a little better and got this session ready for the blog! Thanks for your patience, Amy and Joel!

Joel is a very talented musician who happens to be located in Pittsburgh by way of London! Amy sent me a few of his songs so I could use one for their video and maybe for a few seniors. Check out more about Joel and his music at his website--http://thereturnofthemelody.com/ His lovely fiancé happens to be someone I am pleased to say that I have known for some time. I am so happy for both of you!

I hope you two like this little video. I will be sending you info on your gallery links very soon! I am looking forward to your February wedding, and I am also looking forward to seeing you both very soon at one of Joel's shows.

Eva and Jason--October 31, 2008

2008-11-05T10:01:00.005-05:00

Eva and Jason...It seems like just yesterday I was meeting you both and Eva's mom at Panera Bread to discuss your wedding photography. Now, the big day is complete and it was a blast! I loved the little details you added to bring the Halloween theme to the wedding. The little skills with the flickering candles, which we used for a ring picture that I am anxious for you to see, and the Frankenstein and Bride of Frankenstein busts at the head table were just a couple of the small details. Your skull fabric on your garter was another! So creative. I think everyone had a great time this Halloween. What a party!

Below is a little video from the slide show and a few other pictures. I hope you enjoy this.

Congratulations, Eva and Jason! You are such a super sweet couple that I am so glad I had the opportunity to meet!!!

A more traditional ring shot with Shawn's super cool macro lens.

A non-traditional ring shot with Shawn's super cool macro lens.:-)

Mike's Senior Pictures

2008-10-29T14:32:00.002-04:00

Finally! I was having a tough time with the video rendering this time. Anyway, here it is! Mike arrived and we were off and running getting quite a few pictures trying to beat the sunset. I think we managed to get quite a few, I'm happy to say. This video is a little preview of some of the pictures.

Mike, check the gallery using the directions I gave to your mom in the next few days to see these and a few more. It was great working with you and then rushing over to the rally at the high school! Busy and fun...I hope you like them!

Megan and Brad--e-session

2008-10-21T18:37:00.004-04:00

Oh my...this will be a fun wedding! Megan and Brad are so sweet...Brad can be a bit mischievous. :-) These two seem to have so much fun!

These two arrived for their e-session as my brother also arrived to dig some big holes in my front yard for my new trees that are to be planted this week. They got to see us squabble over the placement of those trees, but they were patient with me! Thanks for that, Megan and Brad!

I love doing these e-sessions. This was was in full sun, which made me hunt out that beautiful filtered light. We found some great places. The waterfall area was gorgeous with autumn leaves just everywhere. Megan was willing to jump from area to area in those pretty heels she was wearing. Brave! Brad was there for her to assist. They are such a great couple and did not take much prompting to relax and talk and kiss while I just took the pictures and moved them form location to location.

I hope you like these!

Wesley and Katelyn--October 18, 2008

2008-10-20T15:55:00.005-04:00

Another fun day! The weather was gorgeous and the leaves are turning orange and yellow and red...just beautiful. Katelyn and Wesley wanted to take pictures in Brady's Run Park and liked the spot by the lake. It was a perfect spot with tons of leaves that had already fallen. As a bonus, we spotted the cattails off in the distance. Just a perfect location for some really beautiful pictures! To see some of the ones Pam took too, take this link.

Wes and Kate, enjoy your honeymoon!

Leanne and Jeremy

2008-10-14T23:47:00.002-04:00

Wow...I am so lucky to be able to work with such amazing couples! Leeanne and Jeremy are just too cute. They did not require much prompting to act naturally in front of the camera! They were even willing to play in the water feature by PNC Park. We met on the North Shore for their e-session and I just kept finding more and more places I wanted to take their pictures! By the way, when you check out these pictures, check out their eyes...they are just so pretty...both Leeanne's and Jeremy's! I could play with your pictures for way too long, guys!

As everyone reading this blog can see, this has been an incredibly busy fall for me. However, I am not complaining. I have the opportunity to work with some really great couples and other photographers and do something that I really love! Leeanne and Jeremy, I can't wait for you to see all of the pics when I get them uploaded to your gallery! In the meantime, you have this little video and a few I pulled out for you. I hope you like them!

Kristen and David--10/11/08

2008-10-14T22:12:00.005-04:00

I was the second shooter for Saturday's wedding. One again, I was working with Pam (click on her name to go to her blog).Kristen and David were so much fun to work with...they like pictures and were willing to get some really creative shots.

My new plan for second shooting is to basically put together a video using animoto.com for the couple. Some of these pictures may not make Pam's final cut for the gallery, but they are good for the video! I had such a great time capturing these moments from your day! I hope you enjoy it.

Congratulations, Kristen and David!

Nicholas' Senior Pictures

2008-10-11T11:55:00.002-04:00

I am off to a wedding, but I wanted to at least get this video up for you! I will revise this blog tonight and add a couple of still shots.

I had fun shooting these yesterday!

Julie and Bill's Wedding 10/4/08

2008-10-05T23:42:00.003-04:00

Another fun day! Bill and Julie are just so comfortable and happy with one another...and their families are quite fun too. Snapping pictures and posing for us and just enjoying in general was the way of the day! The couple's e-session is in the July 2008 blog section where I shared a little more about them. They are a great couple!

Shawn Rodger's came along to help with this one and it was great to work with him again. He photographed Dave and Tara's wedding with me this past May. He really is fun to work with and he has a great way with people with lots of creative photo ideas. Check out his work by clicking this link or this one.

Thank you, Bill and Julie, for a great day!

Here is a little video with some of the pictures form the slide show shown at the reception plus a bunch more... so many to choose from for this!

Jessica and Derek's Wedding

2008-09-29T21:40:00.009-04:00

Jess and Derek...what can I say?!?!? I knew when I met them a few months ago to do their engagement pictures that this was going to be a wedding with a few surprising twists...and I hadn't even met Derek's fun and adventurous groomsmen yet! I have to say that I think the whole bridal party knows how to have so much fun!

As a bonus to all of the craziness and fun, Jess and Derek allowed time for Pam and me to get these very cool and fun shots. (Click on Pam's name in that last sentence to take you to her blog for some more pictures!) Thanks for going along, Pam! As always, it is great to work with you. :-)

On a side note...I can not get these images any larger on this site. I am in the process of checking out another that does allow me to make the images larger without having to click on them...like they deserve to be!

Anyway, two shots in particular that Jess wanted and one that Derek wanted are in the following video. Some of the pictures are pulled out below the video with some further explanation.

Thank you Jess and Derek for the opportunity to spend such a special day with you both!

Jessica was getting the back of her dressed laced up when I took this one...

The bubble send off with the wedding party behind them...so sweet!

Getting ready to take some fun group shots and some of just the bride and groom.

These two were high school sweethearts, so why not use the steps of their alma mater?

Jess wanted this one in particular. She called it a "Marilyn Monroe" shot since there is one of the movie star in a similar pose. I call it the "Heather" shot since she is the one who had one similar to it on her blog. She is another local photographer and is absolutely amazing! I really do love this one.

OK...this is not one I would normally put on my blog, but this was a special request of the groom and groomsmen. Besides, Pam dared me to put it on here. ;-)

This is the other special request from Jessica. There are several more of this in the video with each of the guys hanging right beside her in turn...fun shots!

A special song for the couple was sung by these two adventurous groomsmen. Uh...the song you ask? Well, it was "Breakfast At Tiffanies"...never got the explanation for that one! It was a fun song though and the guys did a nice job with it.

Jen and Dan's e-session

2008-09-27T12:29:00.002-04:00

OK, so I told Jen and Dan at this e-session that I wanted to put the pictures up on my blog for them first. Dan commented something about it was a place for me to reveal all of the things he said while we were taking these pictures. Truth is, I won't do that...this time! Seriously though, I think Jen and Dan ended up having a good time taking these shots.

Now, if only I can find that stupid bench that was sitting right by the woods in an empty lot... never did find it after I just drove by it scouting out the area in Edgeworth and Sewickley where we took these pictures about forty minutes or so before I met this lovely couple to take the pictures. Do I have that short of a short-term memory? Yes, I guess so. I will find it again. We may go on an impromptu shoot to get some fall colors in a few pictures soon. Maybe then I can find it. ;-) You two are such good sports to ride around with me looking for it.

Dan spotted the very cool painted sea scene in some of these shots. I am looking forward to your wedding next May. I am sure it will be an amazing day!

Jessica's Senior Pictures

2008-09-04T22:55:00.007-04:00

Two senior shoots in one week...whew! I really do enjoy these sessions. Not only do I get to meet these great seniors, but I also meet parents and grandparents. Jessica has a super sweet grandmother and it was nice to get a shot of them together as well. That one might be available soon.

I had fun on this one...Jess did a one handed hand stand. Yep. Cool pic too. Once again, many fun shots to choose from very soon! I have a quick sneak peek ready for now and will post a video as soon I select the images to put in it! Thanks for a fun photo session, Jess. Have an amazing senior year!

Here is a video of a few of the pictures...

And a few of the pictures...

So Jessica was wearing the white shirt and I had to do this one...kind of ethereal...

Katie's Senior Pictures

2008-09-02T20:43:00.008-04:00

OK...So I got home tonight from my senior picture session with Katie and her parents and I just had to share these two quick ones. By the way, thanks for driving us around Lysle! I have narrowed them down a little...very little during my first pass through the images! I know I will narrow them down more, but Katie is just so photogenic! Tough choices...

Here a couple quick previews.

A video of some of the pictures...

Thanks for a fun photo session!

Brandi and Tom's Wedding 8-31-08

2008-09-02T20:41:00.010-04:00

So I had many pictures from this one to share...what a fun day! I was the second shooter for this wedding and had a blast! I loved seeing and catching up with so many of of this couple's classmates. Check our Pam's blog for some of the pictures she has processed as a sneak peak and any others she adds. I really enjoy working with Pam and can't believe it has been over a year already since we started shooting weddings together and hiring one another whenever possible.

These two videos give you an overview of Brandi and Tom's wedding day from beginning to end.

Brandi and Tom...I loved, loved, LOVED your wedding! I am so very happy for you both and I hope that you are having an amazing time in Aruba. I also hope that this beautiful honeymoon is only the amazing beginning to your wonderful new life together!

The Preparations and the ceremony:

The Reception:

Flowers: Karie at Heritage Floral Shoppe
Cake: Carol's Cakes
Venue: The Pittsburgh Airport Mariott
Guestbook/Entertainment: ShutterBooth
Entertainment: Magic Moments
Videographer: Lauren's Videos

Lauren's Senior Pictures

2008-08-20T13:38:00.008-04:00

I had so much fun last evening going from place to place with Lauren and her mom to take these pictures! I think that they had fun too! Of course, I should mention that I need to remember to read the signs while driving. I went the wrong way on a one way street as we were going for one last shot before heading back to my house. Yep, first time in my life to ever get pulled over. Never want to do that again. Thanks to the nice officer who didn't give me a citation! Whew! After that little adventure we headed out before we totally lost the light to get the streetscape shot.

The video has a bunch of shots and a few others are below as well. Lauren, I hope you like these! Have a wonderful senior year and remember to enjoy each moment. This will be the fastest year of high school, so remember to soak it in!

One last one...this is Lauren and her mom.

My day...

2008-08-15T15:19:00.003-04:00

Today was a day I kind of dreaded. I knew years ago when I bought my house that the one tree in the front yard was not the best looking of trees, but it was a big old maple that provided some really nice shade. Four years ago, about a year after the local electric company hacked away at the trees, the nice straight tree on the corner of the lot was lost to something called verticillium wilt. Once a maple gets it, there is no saving it. So, I was down to the one leaning tower and was unwilling to let it go. Well here I am four years later, finally giving up on it after a spring visit from the electric company again. No wilt this time, just a total butchering of the front of the tree. Every storm we've has since then has been a worry about the tree.

So today, I had Bob and his crew of The Busy B's from Darlington, PA take it down. I spent most of today outside while it was going on and while my brother collected the wood for his wood burner this winter. Below are a few pictures of the before and after. No, I did not take pictures during the removal since I was just really bummed to lose that tree.

None-the-less, Bob and his crew did a great job and I highly recommend their service should you ever need a tree pruned or removed. Call them at 724-827-2410.

This is the before...notice the lovely look of the tree around the wires and how back heavy it was!

This is the stump before it was put through the grinder.

Bob grinding away the stump little by little...

The result...tons of sunlight on the front of the house! Note: My brother has to come back for the last of the wood piled here and he also wanted the pile of leftover stump for mulch or something. Normally all of this is taken away by the Busy B's.

Lyndsay and Brandon--August 9. 2008

2008-08-13T21:08:00.008-04:00

So many people!!! Lyndsay and Brandon had so many people in the church for the ceremony and even more at the reception. We had the opportunity to do some large group photos while at the reception and they will be placed int he galleries. In the meantime, here are a few of the pictures from this amazingly gorgeous August Saturday with weather that felt like a September day. Seriously...gorgeous!

Pam came along to second shoot this one and we also asked Brent to koin us on this one. It was our first opportunity to work with Brent and I look forward to working with him again. (Click on their names to go to their blogs with more pictures from your day!) We have many pictures of the packed dance floor! The DJ had the right mix of music to keep the crowd moving!

I wish you both the very best and look forward to sharing more of your wedding photos with you in the galleries! I will be in touch with you soon with more information.

Congratulations!

Lyndsay got ready at her grandmother's condo right near the church. We used the big living room window for some great light!

Brent went over with the guys and got this one of our handsome groom.

Pam got this one...love the bokeh (the blurred background)...

The ladies heading over to the church...

While Lyndsay was waiting in the bridal room, I used the light coming through the stained glass for this one.

Same window but another pose made into a black and white

I love the look on Brandon's face as he sees Lyndsay walking down the aisle.

The unity candle with their faces in the mirror...

Reception: Seven Oaks Country Club
Flowers: Cindy Kronk
Cake: Lisa Zagorski
DJ: "The Bobcat" Bob McClune

Nick and Elana--e-session

2008-08-07T22:47:00.004-04:00

Nick and Elana met us in Oakland, at the Cathedral. Pam is shooting this wedding and asked me if I would like to go along on the e-session and to second shoot the wedding. After a short delay due to a traffic jam at the Oakland exit which Pam and I got stuck in as well as Nick and Elana, we got started right at the cathedral. We were excited to see Elana in that awesome orange dress! Great color and a great couple. They didn't take much coaching on what to do during this e-session...such naturals! :-) Here are a few of the pictures I snapped during our time at Pitt that Thursday evening.

Jessica and Derek--e-session

2008-07-30T22:47:00.008-04:00

Although they have been together for some time, September 27th is the day for Jessica and Derek to begin their marriage. Can I just tell you how much fun these two are? We took these engagement photos in Ellwood City and the majority were taken along this path that leads to the water. Hmmmm...Water with huge boulders that we climbed all over that Jessica and Derek were willing to do barefoot as well! Pam (click on her name for a link to her blog with more photos from the session), who will also be taking photos for me at the wedding, was full of ideas once again. I think we ended up with some keepers! Below are a few of my favorites with a video of more images as well.

Jessica and Derek, you are such a great couple! Derek, I know you didn't like the idea of these shots, but I hope that now that it is over and that you can see them, you can say that it was worth it! I think you said it wasn't bad at all by the time we left our photo session. I am really looking forward to capturing the photos of your day for you!

I just love the way that you two look at one another in many of these pictures.

Ale and Shawn

2008-07-26T02:19:00.005-04:00

I once again had the opportunity to second shoot for Pam (click on her name to see some photos on her blog). We headed to Canonsburg and then on to Bethany and Wheeling for this one and had a great time! I even discovered where that new road by the airport goes...to/from Wheeling! I had fun shooting this one...I always enjoy working with Pam though. It's great working together to cover such an important day. Another fun thing though had to be the guys in the wedding party! The groomsmen were too funny and had a few tricks up their sleeves during the reception. One of them you can see in the shots in the video below.

Shawn and Ale you are an amazing couple... I hope you two enjoy the video and I wish you only the very best in your new married life!

Ceremony: Bethany College
Reception: White Palace at Wheeling Park

Bill and Julie e-session

2008-07-08T22:45:00.002-04:00

Bill and Julie make such a sweet couple! They were friends back in high school and went their separate ways in college. They found one another again and started chatting and one thing leads to another...Now, here they are preparing for their wedding!

I have to say I really do enjoy doing engagement pictures. I like to opportunity to chat with the couple and for them to get to know a little more about me as well. It makes it much nicer when I show up for the wedding and we know one another a little. For Bill and Julie though, I already know them from their high school days. However, to see them a few years later, it was good to catch up a little with them. I still have the pleasure of working with Julie's mom at my school district.

I am really looking forward to your wedding in October. It is going to be a lovely evening and oh-so-much-fun! I hope you two enjoyed the session in between the raindrops, as that is all we seem to have this summer. We were lucky to be able to get these taken before you two headed back to your homes away from home.

Your pictures are up on your gallery which you can access by clicking on the link to the right, but for now here is a video of a few of the shots.

Robin and Jimmy

2008-06-24T01:19:00.003-04:00

This was one of those weddings that was also like a reunion for those involved and, this time, for me as well! Many of the guests as well as the ladies in the bridal party are former students. I have to say I loved to see them all again! It has been about 10 years since I saw this group last. They were amazing then...nothing has changed! Robin met Jimmy in college so this was my first opportunity to meet him since I was the helping my colleague, Pam of pamelasuephotography, with this wedding. Robin and Jimmy, you make a great couple. I wish you both the very best as you begin your life together!

To those of you in attendance that were former students or those that I just happened to see in the halls in school, I also wish you the very best! I look forward to seeing you again soon and hearing more about your successes in life since high school. I am blessed to have the opportunity know each of you!

Attached here is a video of some of the pictures from the day. You will see the DJ of Magic Moments had the crowd up and dancing with some fun ideas to get them started. The cake was delicious and the Timberhouse was once again a lovely setting for a wedding. I would love to have the opportunity to see the video from Lauren's Videos. I had a chance to talk to the two ladies a little and I am sure it will be full of many wonderful memories.

I hope you enjoy the pictures!

Ceremony and Reception: The Timberhouse at Rolling Acres
Cake: Carol's Cakes
Florist: Inge Florists
Entertainment: Magic Moments
Videographer: Lauren's Videos

Liz and Don--June 7, 2008

2008-06-10T00:36:00.002-04:00

Saturday was a day as a second shooter for me helping out my colleague, Pam. As always, we worked to really get some great shots around the venue, and it is so worth the extra effort. I really like working with Pam and look forward to another wedding coming up soon.

Liz and Don were such fun to work with! Yes, it was a hot and humid day, but we still all went outside and took some really fun shots of the bridal party! Below is a little video of a few of the shots I took during the day.

Congratulations Liz and Don! I really enjoyed the day!

Liz and Erich e-session video

2008-05-27T21:56:00.002-04:00

I love Pittsburgh. Sorry if anyone disagrees, but the city is so cool! I spent part of Sunday with Pam shooting some engagement photos of Liz and Erich in Oakland and had so much fun. We found so many cool places to take pictures of the couple. Their wedding later this year is at St. Paul's right down the block form the Cathedral of Learning and I am excited to be able to shoot another wedding there.

I have to say this here too, I am so glad that we made it home safely! I didn't realize that my front tire was splitting. It could easily have blown out on our way there or home. Scary thought, but true. Lesson learned...a quick visual check of the car is a good idea. None-the-less, we made it there and back safely.

I enjoyed working with Liz and Erich and look forward to their wedding!

David and Tara's Wedding

2008-05-18T22:04:00.008-04:00

If you've checked out my main website, you will see in the information section about my business logo and the fact that Dave designed mine for me. I was so happy to be able to take the pictures of Dave and Tara's day! Another thing that made it fun was that, not only did Pam help out, but Shawn did as well. I really enjoyed working with both of them.

Saturday, May 17th started off kind of as a gloomy day. The wedding ceremony and reception were all outside at Suncrest Camp. Just in time for the ceremony, the sun came out. It stayed out for about an hour after the ceremony as well for us to get some really fun shots of the bridal party. As we were trying to wrap up, the thunder was rumbling but we managed to get back under the pavilion before the rain started down..and sideways. Everyone started to eat. In a little while, once again the sun came out just before sunset. We managed to get some sweet shots of that with the couple.

Each of the bridesmaids wore a different color dress. The colors are all found in the peacock feather. The peacock feathers were also included on the tables, and of course in the girls' flowers. The one shot below, I asked Tara to be in front of the girls and have them fan out behind her...like a peacock's tail. Tara was willing to have the picture taken even though the grass was wet. By the night's end there was mud on it anyway thanks to the previously mentioned storm...mud was around!

Enough talk...now to the pictures.

Sparky even was dressed for the occasion and walked down the aisle.

This is the second wedding now that I've seen the sand being combined rather than a unity candle. It's really a sweet idea and it is something that is easily added as a house decoration.

The backlighting here was rough, but I still love this moment when he literally picked her up and kissed her for their first kiss as a married couple. Awww.....

This is the one mentioned earlier...the sky was getting darker and darker behind them with the approaching storm.

Tara and the girls noticed the stacked buildings here and we decided to take advantage of it.

When we walked across the field to get the pictures, we picked a spot that had some shade since the sun was so bright. While we were there, Shawn set this fun one up...check out that dark sky behind them. Talk about a change in lighting!

After dinner was the cake cutting...and smashing! The sun came back out so we used the time to get the bouquet toss and garter toss as well as a few sunset shots.

Yea...you could say he was a little surprised. He is still holding her piece of cake in this shot. I have a few where he got her back a bit too. :-)

This one is thanks to the bridal party having some fun...and it's something that the couple hopes for a bit later!

Pam wanted to get the couple by the puddle. I hurriedly called them back down before we completely lost the sunset and the three of us started snapping away. Nice...

Brandi and Tom's e-session

2008-04-29T19:56:00.006-04:00

Brandi and Tom...high school sweethearts who found one another again and are now getting ready to head down the aisle. It is such a great story for them to share! I also had the pleasure of knowing these two back in those high school days. Brandi was one of my first students as I officially took on a full-time teaching position. She and another student, RJ, even dressed up as Santa's elves to deliver the replies that our class organized from Santa to the elementary students at one of our local buildings.

I have the opportunity to take some pictures of them for Pam as I second shoot this wedding with her. I am including a few of the still images here of their engagement session from Sunday and a little video as well.

Needless to say, I have enjoyed knowing these two over the years and I am so looking forward to helping Pam capture their wedding in pictures!

Holly and Brian's Wedding

2008-04-20T19:15:00.024-04:00

Yesterday was Holly and Brian's wedding day and I was pleased to be able to take the pictures for them. I once again had Pam assist me with this wedding. It is so nice to have someone along to shoot more photos and to be able to share some of the pictures with right away! I have known Holly for some time since her family has been involved in our church for as long as I can remember. Interestingly enough, awhile back we realized that she was also my goddaughter's and her sister's teacher in pre-school. The girls love Holly! She and Brian included them in their day as a junior bridesmaid and as one of the flower girls. They were so excited to be a part of Miss Holly and Brian's day!

The church was lovely, a bit warm, but lovely and full of light around the altar. The weather was perfect throughout the afternoon. Everyone had such a wonderful time. Holly's brothers were part of the bridal party as well. Andy, in particular was having an especially great time! I always thought he was so quiet. I guess he is in some cases, but he is also full of fun! Holly and Brian will have lots of pictures showing that too!

I love this picture of the girls holding their dresses as they are running toward the door to take some pictures outside before the ceremony. Pam caught this moment and I think it is so sweet!

Brian and Andy before the ceremony Andy was trying to get Brian to laugh and smile...and he was successful. He can tell you how he managed that on his own!

The bride looking so happy. Her uncle walked her down the aisle. I really enjoyed him as well. He is a funny guy!

This is another moment that Pam caught...the flower girl trying to get someone to be quiet. It is so sweet...and so is this little girl! So what if I am a bit biased here since I have known since she was born! :-)

After the vows and ceremony, the happy couple headed back down the aisle as husband and wife!

The wedding party at SNPJ... moments later, a cute dog, and not a little one, decided to join us. Luckily, she was a friendly dog!

Church Flowers by: Jones creations: 724.333.5953

Bride's flowers by Roses of Wood
DJ: Eric the DJ... (He really kept them on the dance floor all evening!)

Reception: SNPJ's Alpine Room

Bre and Jeff

2008-04-09T21:39:00.006-04:00

I had the fun opportunity to second shoot for Pam for Bre and Jeff's wedding this past Saturday. We headed off to Indiana, PA for their big day! The church was quite pretty with a few opportunities for some nice pictures before the ceremony began.

In the ceremony, Bre and Jeff poured sand into a container, pictured below, with a color for each of them as individuals and a third to signify their lives as a couple. I have attended many weddings over the years and have not seen this lovely moment in a ceremony. I really like the idea...very sweet.

The reception was at The Coney right around the corner from the church. The DJs did a nice job of keeping the music going and people on the dance floor...expecially the kids! They were loving it. Pam has a great picture of the very cute DJ on her blog of the wedding!

Some pictures are included below...I am including more pictures than I normally do on this one since I was the second shooter for the wedding and this is my only real chance to get to play with the pictures due to time issues and having so much to do! None-the-less, I wanted to include them on this blog!

The church...beautiful blue sky day!

Getting ready...the girls putting some finishing touches on their make up...

I love this picture! Bre with her girls as they help her by carrying her train...so sweet!

Bre and the flower girl (and daughter) in sweet moment.

Bouquet and ring...

The sand ceremony I mentioned earlier...

The first kiss as husband and wife...

Another of the ones I really like...caught in a kiss as they waited in the church foyer for their wedding party to recess from the altar.

Happiness and bubbles surround the couple!

A close up shot of the sand signifying the couple becoming one...

OK. Jeff is a funny guy...always making faces and making Bre and us laugh...this is one of those faces!

One final shot of this sweet couple!

Bre and Jeff... I wish you a lifetime of happiness...congratulations!

Troy's Senior Pictures

2008-04-06T22:40:00.002-04:00

I had so much fun today taking these pictures! Since there is a chance that Troy needs a few of these by Friday, I came right home and got a few ready for him.

So far I really love taking senior pictures. We traipsed through the woods, found a great big stack of bonfire wood to use, a cool broken down old brick outdoor fireplace, the church bus, and the picnic pavilion to get some shots. The very first ones we took are tough to use ... not as tough as it was on Troy to try not to squint. It was a super sunny day today without a cloud in the sky in the early afternoon when we were taking these. Yes, that's right... we do get some sunshine in the Pittsburgh region!

Troy, thanks for being such a good sport through all of this. I hope you had some fun today. I surely did. Also, I want to thank your mom for being so helpful with my light reflector kit and holding my lens and for being so helpful in general!

Brian and Kalena

2008-03-30T20:54:00.007-04:00

My first wedding of 2008 and it was lots of fun! I met with Brian and Kalena shortly before the wedding. At this meeting, Brian said he wouldn't smile and that he doesn't. He then smiled a very nice smile a few times in response to Kalena during the conversation. When we were wrapping up the meeting, I told him I would get a couple pictures of him smiling...and I did! The posed pictures he pretty much stayed true to his word, but when he and Kalena were talking to one another and he wasn't aware of the camera, that smile came out! I snapped a few then. Pam, who assisted as a second shooter on this wedding(pamelasuephotography.com), got a few too. I think they will like them! Seriously, a great couple who had a wonderful wedding ceremony and a great time throughout the day. Your pictures will be available on the online galleries very soon! In the meantime, here are a few to check out.

Changes

2008-03-09T20:18:00.002-04:00

I am still here during these quiet winter months...working away at an all new website and all that entails.

I have a wedding coming up on Saturday this week. My first one of 2008 and I am really looking forward to it! I met with Kalena and Brian last week over some dessert at a local restaurant and had a nice time just chatting with them about the wedding plans and a little about them. This is going to be a fun wedding!

Anyway, if you want to check out a sneak preview of my new website including the new logo, go to artisticmomentsbybeth.com. By the way, that was a tough decision...the domain name I mean. Everything I tried was taken! So, I was chatting with a friend on the phone kicking around names and she came up with this one and it worked! Thanks, Leslie for all of your help and encouragement!

This new domain link will be added to this blog ASAP. For any past clients checking in here, I am still going to use SmugMug as my printer since I am happy with the quality of their prints so your galleries are safe! I am not making any changes there.

Check back next week for some of Kalena and Brian's wedding day photos on this blog!

Bridget and Chris--Video

2007-11-12T20:15:00.001-05:00

Bridget and Chris

2007-11-12T12:43:00.000-05:00

When I reflect on Chris and Bridget's wedding, I can't help but smile. They are such a perfect couple who are so in love! Everyone at this wedding had to have such a great time...even the guys since they were able to watch their college football game during the reception! After the formal dinner, everyone headed to the bar area where a dance floor was set up and the guys could watch their game. The bridesmaids had so much fun dancing to "Soulja Boy" and just about everything else that was played.

I also really enjoyed working with Pam, my assistant at this wedding, as we took the bride and groom off to the golf course to get so many great shots. I will be adding a video here shortly...I can't seem to get it uploaded right now (gotta love technology), but I will fix it and revise this blog to include it. In the meantime, enjoy a few of the pictures.

Jeremy's Senior Pictures

2007-10-30T00:37:00.001-04:00

I personally can't even believe that Jeremy is a senior already. How did that happen? Anyway, Jeremy stopped on his way home from his college visit to have these pictures taken. I think I took a few more than he planned on originally, but I still think he had some fun with it! It was great to meet Laura as well. I have a cute one of the two of them in Jeremy's gallery on my web page.

Enjoy your senior year Jeremy!

Rick and Lindsay

2007-10-25T00:39:00.001-04:00

Rick and Lindsay had such a beautiful day for their wedding and the reception was in a great spot. I really enjoyed the chance to go outside and get some of those group shots . I think that those are by far some of my favorites. I will add some still images after I finish processing the pictures. For now, I hope the two of you enjoy this short video of a few of them.

Congratulations, Rick and Lindsay!

Rick and Lindsay had such a beautiful day for their wedding and the reception was in a great spot. I really enjoyed the chance to go outside and get some of those group shots . I think that those are by far some of my favorites. I will add some still images after I finish processing the pictures. For now, I hope the two of you enjoy this short video of a few of them.

Congratulations, Rick and Lindsay!

Tracy's Photos Part 2

2007-10-23T23:10:00.000-04:00

Instead of just the video, I wanted to share a few of the images from Tracy's senior picture shoot. I really enjoyed taking these photos and would be willing to do more senior pictures in the future! :-)

Tracy's Senior Pictures

2007-10-14T18:00:00.001-04:00

Another new thing for me...taking senior pictures...and I loved it! Tracy and her mom and sister along with a beautiful little baby in her Steelers gear met me at the gazebo in town and we were off. They willingly drove to a few places around town to take these shots. I used my Canon 85mm lens with my Canon 40D and loved it! Check out the blur on these portrait shots. I also decided to try this cool new site (animoto.com) that my friend Pam shared with me. I decided to give it a try with Tracy's pictures. Hit play above to check it out!

Amy and Brian's Wedding 9-22-07

2007-09-30T23:10:00.000-04:00

Have I mentioned lately how much I enjoy taking pictures at weddings? Yes, it is a lot of running around and yet trying to stay out of the way, but wedding days are so special and I love to do my part to have pictures to help the memories last forever!

Amy and Brian's wedding was beautiful. The church had great stained glass windows and the altar area was just so pretty. The only problem was that there was no air conditioning! For September, it was HOT...mid to upper 80s...go figure! That being said, Brian and Amy, as well as their wedding party, were great to work with for the photos...just a fun group of people to be around, you know? Even though it was quite warm, we managed to get the family photos taken! My personal favorite of the wedding party pictures is the one I've attached to this blog.

The reception...fun, fun, fun...by all! So many smiling faces...and a few familiar ones for me. Lindsay, one of the bridesmaids was in a wedding I photographed last year and a cousin of the bride and his wife were in attendance and are actually a friends of mine. I always say at weddings that we do live in a small world!

This was the first wedding that I set up a slide show of some of the pictures I had taken up to the reception. I am wondering what those of you who saw it felt about it playing while people waited for their drinks. If possible, let me know via a comment to this blog or by clicking the contact me link on my SmugMug page if you liked, disliked, or were indifferent to the pictures showing during the reception!

Hey, I hope everyone got to check out that huge collection of cookies! Throughout the reception, Amy and Brian and their friends and family were all smiles. What a great couple! I so thoroughly enjoyed photographing your wedding day!

Concert Pictures

2007-09-14T15:27:00.001-04:00

OK...so anyone who knows me, knows that I am amazed by Bill Deasy's music. I just love it. He had a full band show at Club Café in Pittsburgh last Saturday. Let me tell you that the show just rocked. This band is so good and just clicks. They fire on all cylinders (as that saying goes)! I decided to take my camera and make another attempt at getting concert pictures. Anyone who attempts to take concert pics without a flash knows that it can be a little tough. That was my goal on Saturday...good pics, no flash. Well, I think I got a few keepers. Wedding photography is one thing, but the concert thing is something else! Oh, and I need to find a way to not get so distracted by the music! ;-)

Anyway, I thought I'd put a few favorites on here as well.

Engagement Photos 9/2/07--Shawn and Ale

2007-09-04T20:49:00.001-04:00

Wow! What fun this evening was. I will be working as a second photographer at this wedding next summer and was invited along to take a few shots during their engagement session. Shawn and Ale were so much fun and such a beautiful couple. I am really looking forward to seeing their ceremony...it will be amazing!

New Lens with a Family Photo Session

2007-08-19T01:28:00.000-04:00

OK...last night, I got to use my new lens taking some pictures of some of my favorite people in the world...members of Leslie's family. I love them all and I loved the opportunity to test out this 85mm lens on some portrait shots of the families and the other group shots we did. I will revise this to include a photo here, but I want to ask them first if I can use one of them.

The grandchildren were all ready for some big smiles for the camera as well. When we finished with the photos, the older group of cousins, none of which are from this area, headed to the Starbucks in Target located in Monaca but ended up following the GPS down the ever scary (especially on a dark night like we had) Freedom-Crider Road to end up in Cranberry! Everyone got home safely after the adventure. Like I told Betsy, I just wanted a Chai Latte anyway! :-) This will be one of those stories that is revisited...often!

About the pictures, the overcast sky worked to our advantage and the mums around the back patio added some nice background color for the pictures. I had fun and I think the family did too! I hope they all enjoy the photos!

Photography

2007-08-14T16:24:00.000-04:00

Photography has long been a hobby for me. I have always enjoyed snapping lots and lots of photos at family events and in nature as well as on vacations. This picture was taken at the end of July this year at Niagara Falls. I just like it. Why? I've been to the Falls a number of times now and have witnessed many things including the ice bridge that forms. However, this was the first time that I saw the fully contained rainbow that forms from the "American Falls" to the "Horseshoe Falls" on the Canadian side. This picture doesn't show the complete rainbow, but with this one, well, every time I look at it, I think I would not want to be the one to look for the leprechaun and his pot of gold where this rainbow is originating!

Anyway, the reason I am writing this initial blog is to let it be known how I have had the pleasure of expanding my interests in the area of wedding photography. It really happened quite by accident. My friend Kelley insisted that I take her wedding pictures. I didn't want to but she said that it would be my wedding present for her if I would just be willing to try it. I made her promise that if I ruined her wedding photos that she wouldn't hate me! I used my trusty Canon Rebel S and took around twelve rolls of film. She was happy with them. Then, my uncle asked me to take the pictures at his wedding the following year. Then, someone heard about me from someone at one of those weddings, and it has just taken off. The thing is...I really do love weddings. The moments captured with my digital camera now are memories for the couple and their family to cherish.

I will add blogs about some of the upcoming events as they occur and may go back and add a couple from the more recent events. So check back soon!