Jersey Shore Home & Garden: A Labor of Love: New Jersey Fine Art Photography

I had the privilege of spending the better part of a week documenting Sarah with her beautiful her 18 month-old daughter, Schuyler, home, and garden this summer.  Sarah and Schuyler are now off to start a big new adventure in Florida, so she asked me to document her labor of love - her circa 1920s farmhouse that she painstakingly gutted and renovated to look like it had never been renovated, just beautifully kept.

Photographing her home and garden was a photographer’s dream. Everywhere I looked were stunning collections of heirloom antiques and modern finds poised into a still life. You can tell Sarah has an artist’s eye. The garden and farewell party décor were a collaboration with Karen and Bob of Stirling Hands LLC. The gardens, with their elaborate stonework and winding paths through the forest, were just magical for the visiting children, even including a white wrought iron fairy house that had belonged to Sarah’s mother. It was a pleasure and an honor to spend that time with Sarah and her family.

Spring Lake: Summer Portraits: New Jersey Fine Art Photography

The most treasured portraits tend to be filled with smiles of the moment.  When planning portraits with a young child, the key is not to restrict them.  Let them have fun and their personalities will shine through, creating beautiful candid works of art that will be cherished for a lifetime.  Engage kids in whatever they're doing and the love you share will make for one-of-a-kind images.

The Ashford Estate: Country Estate Wedding: New Jersey Wedding Photography

The Ashford Estate, listed under "Country Estate Weddings" by Weddings of Distinction, is a beautiful and unique venue, offering both rustic romance with its barn house chapel, and regal elegance with its breathtaking manor.  Summer or winter, this estate creates a magical atmosphere perfect for creating one of a kind memories.

Inspired by the beautiful venue, we got together with some of the best vendors to create a dream wedding stylized shoot.  Stephanie Somodi, owner of Designing the Most Inviting Day, provided us with a beautiful invitations, highlighting her amazing talent for detail.  Magnolia Exquisite Florals and Event Decor created all of our stunning bouquets and amazing tabletop arrangements with china provided by Rumson China and Glass.  Our wonderfully talented models came to us from Wilhemina Philadelphia, bringing our ideas for a dream wedding to life.  Allison and Brooke wore gowns from Elizabeth Johns Bridal Salon.  The whole look came together with hair by Michelle Azouz and makeup done by Amy Jones-Baskin and Cassidy Renee Boch of Beauty on Location NJ.

Thank you to the Ashford Estate, and to everyone involved in making this incredible day a reality.  We couldn't have done it without all your time and hard work!

The Ashford Estate: Stylized Shoot : New Jersey Wedding Photographers

The Ashford Estate, listed under "Country Estate Weddings" by Weddings of Distinction, is a beautiful and unique venue, offering both rustic romance with its barn house chapel, and regal elegance with its breathtaking manor.  Summer or winter, this estate creates a magical atmosphere perfect for creating one of a kind memories.

Inspired by the beautiful venue, we got together with some of the best vendors to create a dream wedding stylized shoot.  Stephanie Somodi, owner of Designing the Most Inviting Day, provided us with a beautiful invitations, highlighting her amazing talent for detail.  Magnolia Exquisite Florals and Event Decor created all of our stunning bouquets and amazing tabletop arrangements with china provided by Rumson China and Glass.  Our wonderfully talented models came to us from Wilhemina Philadelphia, bringing our ideas for a dream wedding to life.  Allison and Brooke wore gowns from Elizabeth Johns Bridal Salon.  The whole look came together with hair by Michelle Azouz and makeup done by Amy Jones-Baskin and Cassidy Renee Boch of Beauty on Location NJ.

Thank you to the Ashford Estate, and to everyone involved in making this incredible day a reality.  We couldn't have done it without all your time and hard work!

Trump National Golf Club: A Summer Solstice Wedding : New Jersey Wedding Photography

On a perfect Saturday in June, Jenna and Jim stood outside in front of a large gathering of friends and family, and said "I do" to happily-ever-after together.  The couple first met after Jenna's cousin did a bit of matchmaking, picking Jim out of her husband's group of friends as someone who may hit it off with Jenna. Two years later, on Jenna's birthday, Jim proposed.

Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, was the ideal location for the elegant summer wedding.  The ceremony took place outside in front of an extravagant fountain and beautiful flowers. Jenna wore a stunning gown from Elizabeth Johns, accompanied by her mother's veil and earrings handpicked by her groom.  Jim could not have been any happier as he stood at the top of the stone steps in an Armani tuxedo, eyes locked on Jenna as she walked down the aisle with her father.  The bridesmaids lined the left side of the steps in their Amsale dresses from Bella Bridesmaid and bouquets by Mike Pellegrino of Jardiniere Fine Flowers.  On the opposite side of the stairs stood Jim's groomsmen, most of whom Jim had known since high school.  Together, Jenna and Jim stood beneath a beautifully adorned arch and proclaimed their everlasting love for each other.

Inside, Jenna's mother and grandmother had worked endlessly to get everything perfect.  Without them, the wedding would not have been the amazing event that it was, helping Jenna immensely with each detailed decision, from the stationary by Linda Gamba of Paperazzi, to the lighting design by Eggsotic Events, to the amazing Jason Craig Band.  After cocktail hour upstairs on the veranda, guests came down into the spectacular ballroom decorated in hues of purple.  From the start of the reception, with Jenna and Jim's first dance, through the speeches from Jenna's parents, sister, cousin, and Jim's best friend, until the end, with dancing and cutting of the cake, Jenna and Jim shined with love and happiness on their perfect day.

Manasquan River Golf Club: Classic Elegance: New Jersey Wedding Photography

Lauren said it was the happiest day of her life.  She and her boyfriend, Stephen, were on a trip to Bermuda watching the sun set from their balcony when he asked her to marry him.  Now, since their beautiful wedding on June 14, Lauren says that Stephen's proposal is the second happiest day of her life.

On the big day, Lauren and her bridesmaids got ready at her parents' home where Lauren had grown up.  Hair stylist, Po Mology from LC Style Lounge, did everyone's hair, while the talented bride did her own makeup.  Lauren radiated joy as she got into her Pronovias gown and Jimmy Choo heels. The bridesmaids wore silver dresses by Alfred Sung with a neckline and back that mimicked the bride's gown.  Stephen and Lauren stole a private moment away from the rest of the group, before the girls took a limo to The Church in Brielle.  The sign outside of the church read, "God Bless Lauren and Stephen."

The reception, only a short drive down the street from the church, was at the Manasquan River Golf Club.  Cocktails were served up on the second story deck.  While guests arrived and caught up, the bride and groom took a golf cart to the water and took a brief moment to enjoy their glorious day.

Back at the club, the ballroom had been perfectly arranged with flowers by Craig Kiely and Darryn Murphy Designs.  MaryKate McMahon, who'd done the calligraphy for the couple's William Arthur invitations from the Paper Source, did a wonderful job on all the escort cards, which were set out as you entered the celebration from the deck above.  Gary Gellman helped to immortalize the night by capturing the couple's big day and first dance on video, while E Studio Entertainment travelled all the way from Pittsburgh to fill the night with great music and lots of dancing.  It was clear as the night went on that not only was the couple in love, but that they were surrounded by the deep love of family and friends.

10 Wedding Photography Tips For Your Big Day! : NJ Wedding Photographers

1. Prep: About a month out, set up a meeting with your photographer to go over your timeline and details.  The big day flies by for most brides, and the more details you work out before hand, the less you have to think about on your special day.  This is a great time to give them your shot list and mention any special guests that you want images of, like college friends or people coming from oversees. 

2. Details, Details: Let your photographer know if there are any special details that hold meaning, like a grandmother’s veil or the to-die-for table linens that were specially made.

3. Family Dynamics: Inform your photographer of any family situations that they need to be aware of.  It can be awkward for everyone when your photographer keeps asking your divorced in-laws to squeeze together and smile. 

4. Shot List: It is a great tool for a photographer to have a shot list.  A professional photographer will already know the standard photos but it is great to go over what those are in your prep meeting.  Give them a who’s-who of family names and any special shots.  Examples of special shots may be college friends, your mother’s siblings, or a cousin shot. Try not to give them a Pinterest board of other work or 6 pages of requests as this can hinder their natural eye and make for less emotional shots.

5. Pad the Schedule: Hair and makeup are an important part of your day.  I always recommend leaving a little extra time in your schedule, as sometimes in the flurry of activity and bridesmaids, it can take longer then expected.  We love to have a bride be almost ready when we arrive with just the finishing touches of hair and make up.

6. Get Mom Ready First: Many brides love to have their mother, sister or maid of honor there to help them into the dress.  It makes for beautiful intimate photos. Whomever you want there, make sure that they are dressed and ready when you step into the dress.

7. Bring the Family: Once your dressed it’s wonderful to have a little time for your immediate family photos.  If possible make sure they are all at the same location.  It’s a beautiful memory and makes the later portraits shorter, which is wonderful if you and your hubby want to enjoy cocktail hour.

8. Keep It Private: Friends and family will surround you all day and that is amazing, but it can be intimidating for a first look.  We recommend taking that time just for the two of you.  It makes for more intimate, emotional images.

9. Put Your Friends to Work: Large family photos can be hard to wrangle.  If possible it can be great to do big family shots after the ceremony on the steps if there is shade.  This lets everyone enjoy the rest of the party.  Appoint a good friend who is not in the photos but knows who everyone is to help gather people.

10. Sneak Away: The last half hour of cocktails, right before sunset, is a gorgeous time for photos.  It can also be romantic to have a minute to take a deep breath and enjoy the company of your new spouse!

One Atlantic: A Wedding with a View: New Jersey Wedding Photography

In 2007, Moira met Michael.  They worked together for the same company in Connecticut and shared the same friends at work.  It was when they began spending time together outside of work, however, that they found they had a lot in common.  Both Michael and Moira loved to be active and learn.  Over time, their friendship grew as they pushed each other to try new things.  Moira learned to snowboard in order to keep up with Michael, and he took up swimming in order to compete in a triathlon with Moira.

Eventually, Moira changed jobs and moved to New York.  With the move, the two athletes realized just how much they’d enjoyed spending most of their time together, and they now had to actively seek each other out.  They were pleased to find that it all worked out seamlessly and felt very natural, which led to a more serious relationship between the two of them.  Their time together has been nothing but a fun and exciting ride since it began.  In 2012, Mike proposed on the first night of a vacation in Capri.

On a beautiful Saturday in May, the couple stood in front of their most beloved family and friends at the One Atlantic in Atlantic City, and read out their own vows.  Moira was the definition of beauty with her hair and makeup done by Bella Angel, and her Pronovias lace gown and Badgley Mischka heels.  Her bridesmaids were flawless in their dark blue Amsale gowns from Bella Bridesmaid and bouquets by Rainflorist.  Michael could have been mistaken for 007 in his custom tux, while all the groomsmen were dashing in their own personal tuxes.

The reception was put together wonderfully with blue tables, and touches of white found in the flowers and hanging candles above the dance floor.  Michael’s mother gifted each seat with her special chocolate chip cookies, and the couple’s wedding cake came from her very own carrot cake recipe.  ExtraStep Video captured the night, while Wilson Stevens “Eye 2 Eye” band made the party unforgettable.

8 Tips For Great Family Portraits: NJ/PA Portrait Photographers

1. Take Advantage of Family Vacations: If you have extending family together for vacation, it can be a great time for a portrait.  Think about possible groupings that you may want, such as siblings and generational shots.  Make sure to research local photographers and possible locations ahead of time to make it a fun outing.

2. Think About Display First: Before your shoot, ask your photographer what products he or she offers.  Think about your home and your personal style.  Share which products you love before you shoot and your photographer can tailor the shoot. I personally have an app that allows me to customize displays for each individual client's home.

3. Wardrobe: Think about your personal style and your home.  Do you have a traditional home or a modern beach house? What colors do you love? Then try to bring these colors into your wardrobe.  I prefer coordinating rather than matching, and I love incorporating texture and layers. 

4. Schedule Around the Youngest: It can be difficult with younger ones to do an extended family portrait.  Try to schedule around your child’s nap and meal times.  Remember, if you’re doing beach photography, midday is tough light-wise, early morning or evening work best. 

5. Make it Fun: Portraits don’t need to be stressful.  Oftentimes, families go in with the image of a perfect smiling shot, and...well...kids are going to be kids.  When they misbehave or are tired and begin to melt, instead of yelling, it's best to redirect the energy. The next two tips address this very thing.

6. Bring Props: It’s less about that perfect prop and more about bringing something your kids enjoy, like a kite or toys for the beach.  If there is an activity to break up the more traditional shots, kids tend to be more patient.  Most of my clients' kids are thrilled to do portraits again because they associate it with play time with their cousins. 

7. Let the Kids Pick: I sometimes ask the kids where they want to shoot or how they want to stand, and they have a blast. If a little one wants to make silly faces in every shot, I have everyone make silly faces.  The winning shot is always the next frame when everyone is laughing and smiling. It works!

8. Banish Cameras and Phones: It seems like a great time to have your camera or cell phone out to snap a few shots while all the family is there, but this can create issues.  Many times, kids end up looking at the family members and not the photographer.  It is best to leave the devices and enjoy the day!

8 Tips for Great Maternity Portraits: NJ Portrait Photography

1.  Ask for Help: New moms have so many things to worry about that sometimes the day of a portrait session they don't have enough hands to get ready.  Have a friend, sister, or sitter - someone your comfortable with - to come for a few hours the day of the shoot so you have time to get ready.

2. Treat Yourself to New Lingerie: Many new moms to be get out their fancy lingerie from pre pregnancy and find that the fit is not the same.  Treat yourself to a trip to the store and have a professional find you the correct bra size.  Get your nails done with a light colored polish as darker polishes can appear almost black in photos.  You deserve it!

3.  Think about Wardrobe: Lay out a few different outfits to give your photographer some options.  Flowing fabrics are beautiful but remember to show of your new shape. Grab your husbands white button down.  A crisp white button down makes a great outfit with your new bra underneath and boy shorts.  If your have a wall portrait in mind, think about the colors you decorate with and coordinate your wardrobe to compliment.

5. Invite Your Husband or Partner: Having your significant other with you on the shoot can be a touching reminder of the new bond you share.  It is less about the styling and more about capturing those emotions and the growing love between you two.

6. Put Your Wedding and Engagement Rings on a Necklace: Swelling is normal during pregnancy and sometimes rings don't fit properly.  Putting your wedding and engagement rings on a nice chain and wearing them on your neck is a way to keep those precious items in the photos.

7. Prep Your Nursery: Having a few photographs in your new nursery is a fun way to remember the first moments.  Details of the new crib, stuffed animals, baby blankets and other baby shower gifts are wonderful images for memory books.

8. Think About Display:  Before you shoot think about how you want to display your images.  Some new moms get a fine art print from the session to display in their bedrooms, nursery or changing rooms.  Starting a collection of custom photo books is also fabulous way to document your little ones life and when they get older children love to look through their books.  If you like to keep things a little more private a silk trifold with a few images can be a beautiful intimate reminder of this amazing moment.