If you had told me I would be shooting in a dense fog— a literal minimal visibility misty cloud— I probably would’ve canceled. When I had called the state park office, the ranger described the weather as “misting” but there was zero chance of precipitation and the forecast was calling for mostly cloudy.But when I stepped out of my vehicle, traversed the sand dunes & approached the raging waters, I discovered the most epic, picturesque scene I could’ve only dreamed for. The absence of sunshine,a gentle breeze,and a thick fog lingering over the foaming ocean. In my mind, absolutely MAGICAL for the clients I was about to photograph.A husband and wife who— because of COVID— were forced to cancel their Hawaiian wedding back in March. So instead, she hoped to document their marriage here in NJ, where they first met. And the outcome was straight of a storybook.Unable to see more than 200 feet in the distance, we were enshrouded by a steamy haze. And as the wind blew, the family pulled each other close, instinctively clinging to one another for warmth.While I can sit all day, planning these sessions from start to finish, what I CANNOT do is control the weather conditions or the attitude of my clients. But this family remained positive, loving and affectionate, despite the fact we did not have a golden glowing sunset. Together we embraced the chilly fog and together we made magic. (6/10/20)
Category: Family
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{#TheDreamMakers Retreat | ZION NATIONAL PARK, Utah | Motherhood Session}
If you were to ask me who has most heavily influenced my work, I would tell you without question, Stormy Solis. No other artist or photographer has inspired me as much as she has. Last year, I not only mentored with her, but also attended one of her workshops in Utah, AND had family portraits taken by her in Colorado. She has taught me to dig deep to find my ‘why’ as an artist– to create art with meaning, substance and deep emotion. Because of her, I broke through my fears and found my voice through heartfelt, intimate storytelling. No more cookie cutter portrait sessions or posing people in forced, unnatural ways.Instead, a focus on connection, love and feeling in each image. Documenting each family for who they truly are, in whatever season they’re in.Here are some favorites from the DreamMakers retreat at Zion National Park, Utah. This motherhood session was led, styled and directed by Stormy, while all the images were taken and edited by me.I realize I should’ve shared these ages ago, but tonight I am reflecting on this past year’s growth and feeling immense gratitude for Stormy’s guidance, which has led me to this point. Today marks one month until my sweet baby’s due date. Looking forward to the moment I meet him… as well all the adventures that soon await our family in South Korea. (5/15/20)
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{Meile Family | Whitesbog, New Jersey | Emotive Storytelling Photography}
If I could give an award to my #bestdressed client, it would be this lady— this family. When I tell you Jamie knows ALL about colors, textures, fabrics and styling, I’m not kidding
With the idea of a natural, organic, neutral palette, she cohesively coordinated outfits for her family of six— and they sauntered out of their minivan and into the magical Pine Barrens looking like models
Jamie’s no stranger to this process though because she’s in fact, a family photographer herself.Born and raised in Wisconsin, and a transplant to South Jersey, she’s celebrating ten years of marriage and the first birthday of her very last baby. She booked this session with me way back in October because as she said, she had seen my work and craved deeply emotional images with her children— ones that tug at her heartstrings and bring tears to her eyes.Images that would show exactly how she feels about each of them—about being their mother—without saying a word. Images that would tell the story of great love for her babies and the gratitude she has for the family they’ve become.And let me tell you, while we did have plenty of playful moments, on their own, her children one-by-one gravitated towards her gentleness.Wrapping their arms around her neck, clinging to her legs, clutching her breast, each child expressed their adoration for their mother in different ways.Knowing her story— and how she had struggled with infertility before her babies were born— made each moment that much more meaningful.Her strength, kindness and tenderness is utterly palpable in every picture. Thank you, Jamie, for giving me the opportunity to capture these connections you have with those you love most. I’m so honored. (5/31/20) -
{Spiegel Family | Ocean City, New Jersey | Emotive Storytelling Photography}
And to think, I ALMOST postponed this session…
The forecast had initially called for overcast skies– and when I arrived, the fog was thick, the sun was bright and there was a distinct cloudy haze hovering over the inlet.Definitely NOT what I had envisioned for my last beach session in New Jersey.But once I met the family & began shooting, I realized the resulting sky was STUNNING — a light orange creamsicle cloud suspended over the ocean. And the family was just as delightful— a wild brood of rambunctious little boys, too cute for words! They were ALL about throwing sand, digging with sticks and running as far away from their parents as possible
I got a clear picture of what my future will look like with three boys and while I was breathlessly chasing them (almost 38 weeks pregnant), I had so much FUN capturing their excitement and joy on the beach.Thank you to my sweet friend (and fellow photographer) Theresa for trusting me to document your family! Weeping a bit, knowing my time in Jersey is coming to a close, but so grateful for the chance to have had done this before we go. (05/30/20)
