You may remember this bride to be from her brother’s wedding not too long ago, where she gave a sweet speech that brought the room to tears. What an honor to be able to capture both of these siblings on their special days!

I met up with Alisha and Anthony one extremely hot afternoon for this fun engagement session. We noticed right away that we had more than just 100 degree heat to deal with, but humid and muggy weather, an incredibly bright sun and then a rain storm that just about blew us away! Despite the challenges, these two were pros! Check out their awesome session below!

P.S. They liked to kiss!

Love this one!

Look at Alisha’s stunning eyes! WOW!

Sometimes I ask people to do random things and I always love when they oblige! This time, I spotted a little “treasure” in a store window and quickly asked these love birds if they’d sit down in front of it. Without giving myself away, I wanted to surprise them with a few images where these words were “sweetly singing” in the background
You are my sunshine, My only sunshine…

Caught this right before a rowdy passerby jumped into the frame!

After spending a little time downtown, we headed to the beach to finish up our session. When we arrived it was a typical Florida beach day… Florida being the key word, because it didn’t take long for the sky to darken, the wind to start whipping, the lightening to start popping and us to start running to the car in the rain!

I love the way the wind caught Alisha’s skirt in so many of these images. 

So romantic.

These two are some more of my favorites!

There’s that awesome wind!

This one is so serene and peaceful!

Hands down my favorite of the day!

This was taken literally 10 seconds after the lightening struck and the thunder rumbled so loudly that I let out a true “girly scream” and about 10 seconds before the rain started to pour. The clouds are amazing!

Alisha and Anthony- thanks for hanging with me on this adventurous day! I can’t wait until your wedding!

Don’t forget to leave some love by August 5th ! For 25 comments, Alisha and Anthony will  receive a free 5×7, for 50 comments they’ll receive a free 8×10!

When I first met Jeremy, Daniela and Jeremy’s mom over coffee at Starbucks, I simply fell in love with them! They were such a sweet couple and Jeremy’s love for his soon to be bride was evident with every word he spoke. I became even more thrilled when Jeremy and Daniela noted they wanted something totally unique for their engagement session. After a few minutes of brainstorming, this adorable couple shared how much they love the Rays and even hitting the batting cages for date nights! It became clear that we had our unique idea and although we had to reschedule due to icky weather, it was worth the wait!

Love this.

To change it up a bit, we decided to move to a completely different location. The 3 of us had been searching for the perfect field for weeks, to no avail. However, my awesome hubby spotted this one during an outing with our kiddos and knew it would be perfect for the session. I’m so thankful for his creative eye because this spot was the PERFECT place to capture the love Jeremy and Daniela have for one another!

Be still my beating heart.

Love, love these two! Some of my favorites from the day hands down.

Thank you Lord for amazing sunlight and for glorious wind- they make this image all that it is!

Finally, I always ask my couples to bring something that’s special to them or significant in their relationship. Jeremy and Daniela knocked it out of the park! They surprised me with this quilt made by Jeremy’s great grandmother and given to his parents.  Robert Bishop author of the The Romance of the Double Wedding Ring Quilts notes, “Clearly, the motif of interlocking rings is a very old one and can actually be traced far back in history. In fact, interlocking ring motifs clearly resembling the DWR appear on several existing Roman glass vessels or lamps from approximately the four century A.D.!” What a rich history and what a beautiful way to incorporate a family heirloom!

Can’t you just feel the love?

Jeremy and Daniela also brought along, as they called it, “a random pink chair” to incorporate into their images. I love random!

Since there were so many other images I wanted to share from our fun time together, I put together this video. Daniela told me that Jeremy is a huge U2 fan…HUGE! So, here’s to their love… certainly, The Sweetest Thing!

Don’t forget to leave some love (post a comment)! For 25 comments, Jeremy and Daniela will  receive a free 5×7, for 50 comments they’ll receive a free 8×10!

This is the third time I’ve had the honor of photographing Shelley and the second time I’ve had Alex in front of my camera and let me tell you, they NEVER disappoint! When I heard they were engaged I was so excited for them, and to be completely honest, also selfishly hoping they’d contact me to capture this season of their lives. I couldn’t have been more ecstatic when I received Shelley’s email!

We planned another early morning session…(Alex deserves a prize for getting up before the break of day again!) We met up at Davis Island, where these 2 lovebirds enjoy spending time together. We then headed over to the downtown Tampa area to finish up.

Oh how I have tried to narrow these pictures down, but alas, I could not. So, you’ll have to feast your eyes upon this couple for awhile. I guarantee you will understand my dilemma!

These pictures all sparkle with shades of blue and since Alex’s last name is moon, it seemed fitting to include these lyrics along the way…

I LOVE everything about this next one! 

Seriously, isn’t she gorgeous?

While Shelley and Alex were sitting down I caught out of the corner of my eye this older couple rowing over to the dock. I thought the fresh, young love juxtaposed by the more mature, seasoned love would make a fun image. It became even more perfect when the lady gasped, hands over her mouth, perhaps realizing they were entering into the frame. So adorable! It makes me smile every time I see it!

Alex and Shelley requested a shot of them snuggling on this bench. I love the way the sky turned out- just perfect!

Models? YES!

And, I have to tell you, I saved my favorites for the end of this post. These melt my heart. Touch my soul. Express Shelly and Alex’s love in a powerful way. I think you’ll agree!

Hands down- this one is my absolute FAVE!

Thanks guys for trusting me yet again! I am eagerly awaiting your big day!

Don’t forget to leave some love (post a comment)! For 25 comments, Shelley and Alex will  receive a free 5×7, for 50 comments they’ll receive a free 8×10!

It’s true, I LOVE engagement sessions! I admit, it’s an obsession! There is nothing greater than 2 people in love, spending time capturing their emotions, without the time constraints of a wedding day. I can’t think of many people, who find opportunities to do this at any other stage in their lives (although, I highly suggest it). Seriously, as a couple’s love grows and matures with years of love, adoration and respect it seems fitting to document it occasionally. Hmmm… anniversary sessions anyone?

I met up with Ashlee and Russ at Fort Desoto, on what happened to be a blustery day. Blustery actually may be an understatement, as more times than not we were dodging the wind, the whipping sand, the crashing waves and praying that the rain held off… which it did, showering down little sprinkles as we drove away.

Here are a few of my favorites from our time together!

Love this one!

These next 3 are my favorite series of  up close images to date! Oh la la! 

Stunning.

I had to post this just so you could see the sand blowing around. Ashlee and Russ were such troopers, even as it flew right into their eyes! 

Closing out in the water- another couple of breathtaking images!

Thanks Ashlee and Russ for hanging out, chatting about the big day and allowing me to capture these moments for you! I’m already looking forward to your wedding!

Don’t forget to leave some love (post a comment)! For 25 comments, Ashlee and Russ will  receive a free 5×7, for 50 comments they’ll receive a free 8×10!

I needed a break from all that editing, so here’s a post I’ve been wanting to share!

I met up with Heath and Amber early one morning to set out on an adventure in downtown Tampa. The wind was wild and traffic was busy, but we were able to find all the right places to make it feel like they were the only ones there. I’m so looking forward to their wedding in July!

How could I resist the clown fish?

One of my favorites from the day. I adore the look on Amber’s face!

These bright flowers were perfect for some sweet shots of this sweet couple.

With Heath, there’s always time for a little dancing! Right?

Amber’s beautiful ring.

Love the spontaneity of these images!

Here’s that great smile on Amber’s face again!

By far, this is hands down my favorite shot of the day! Heath had been playing and singing to Amber when this tender moment occurred. My only problem, I can’t decide if I like it better in color or black and white. What do you think?

My hubby and I love these books (note: they’ll be on the resource page for sure) and since Amber is an avid reader, I brought them along for this fun image!

We spent forever looking for a place to park to snag this image. I think it was worth it! 

Heath and Amber, thanks for a great time together! Looking forward to all the surprises on your special day!

Don’t forget to leave some love (post a comment)! For 25 comments, Heath and Amber will  receive a free 5×7, for 50 comments they’ll receive a free 8×10!

I met up with Melissa and Wakefield (isn’t that a cool name?!) in Plant City for their engagement session. I actually met the bride to be when we first moved to the area and she joined a Bible Study I was leading, Gift Wrapped By God. It had been awhile since I had been in touch with her, so this was a sweet reunion and a wonderful time to document the love these two have for one another.

Lovin the emotion in this one!

Melissa was radiant!

Old walls and allies can be little gems!

We found this adorable little cafe downtown…

as well as a car show!

Then it was off to find some train tracks and a field. We drove and drove, but finally came upon some perfect locations! During our excursion, Wakefield asked me, “If there was one piece of advice you could give Melissa about marriage, what would it be?” I answered, to respect your husband. In fact, I recently read an awesome book based off of Ephesians 5:33. We had a great discussion while we scoped out some spots to shoot and I realized that since many of my clients know my husband is the director of the Baptist Collegiate Ministries at USF, I often get lots of questions during my sessions about marriage and relationships. I usually share from my heart and then refer couples to some suggested reads. So, with all that said- I’m going to be adding a resource page on my blog for engaged couples, where I’ll list some great finds that we’ve discovered that will help prepare you for marriage.

Ok- now on to the pics!!

Without a doubt, one of my favorites! 

Remember… I said she was radiant! Look at that smile! Ah, love! 

Yes, they braved the wild flowers (maybe they’re weeds), and it was so worth it! 

Our last minute discovery was this awesome field. ..more favorites!! Yep, everyone of these below!! 

My goodness! Isn’t she gorgeous?

Melissa really wanted to release the balloons. They decided on two. 

Melissa and Wakefield, thanks for exploring the wild country with me! It was an awesome adventure!

I’m so looking forward to your wedding!

Don’t forget to leave some love (post a comment)! For 25 comments, Melissa and Wakefield will  receive a free 5×7, for 50 comments they’ll receive a free 8×10!

Ashley and Brian got married in Citrus Springs and my hubby and I left early in the morning to meet up with the beautiful bride at her grandmother’s salon! How fun to have your grandmother fix your hair for your wedding!

I love this one of Ashley’s mom watching… 3 generations in one image. 

The beautiful dress and accessories.

I love this image of Ashley’s mom helping her into the dress. It’s even more special when you hear the story! Ashley wanted to wear her mom’s gown, but in a unique way… she found a seamstress who took the original gown and created another masterpiece using all the original fabric and beading except for one small portion on the front.

This is a before and after of sorts! 

Ashley before the ceremony. 

While I was spending time with the girls, my hubby was hanging out with the guys. We had driven over to the location where they’d be and scoped out some fun photo opportunities. I knew Rahul was creative, but when I saw these I couldn’t have been more pleased! What a great, AWESOME second shooter! I love the symbolism of this image; as if Brian is just beginning a new journey, preparing to travel a new road. LOVE IT!

Rahul was able to draw out such genuine emotion!

These next two are my favorite groomsmen pictures of all time and my hubby took them!! I think he might be coming along a lot more often now!

Here’s another one of those happy surprises. I put the rings down on the sidewalk at Ashley’s house and noticed that the shadow nearly forms a heart. How sweet!

Getting ready for the ceremony. 

Ashley and her dad have such a sweet relationship. I think this image clearly shows their love for one another!

During the ceremony, Ashley and Brian had some of the most unique lighting I’ve ever seen. Most of the ceremony was nearly in the dark, with just a spotlight on them. Here’s one of them during a prayer that I just loved. 

Remember from their engagement session, there were some sweet little kisses on the cheek and some tender moments, as Ashley and Brian had committed to a relationship that honored God and kept them pure…. that’s why this single kiss symbolized so much! 

So from the beautiful sun flares, you’d never know that this was actually one of the coldest weddings I’ve ever shot! I’m not talking chilly, I’m talking FREEZING! By the time we packed up from our visit to this park, my fingers were literally numb and turning blue! It was insane. I have no idea how Ashley and her bridesmaids survived! 

You know you’ve been to a lot of receptions when you start hearing Beyonce’s Single Ladies in your dreams! Seriously! This picture just makes me start humming along all over again. 

Love the way they kept gazing at each other. 

One of my favorites of the newlyweds! Brian was talking to Ashley, whispering in her ear and this moment happened. I was lucky enough to have caught it!

This is my OFFICIAL favorite of Ashley and Brian. I would be getting this blown up for my living room!!

Reception time!

Special dances and a few details…

The bride and groom quickly changed into their TOMS during the reception. If you’ve never heard about this awesome company, you’ll want to check them out! This image comes just in time for “One Day Without Shoes,” which is tomorrow April 8th. Rahul and I have actually had the honor of hearing the founder of  TOMS speak live at a conference. Such a great business with a powerful message. Oh and engaged couples, they’ve even got some special shoes for you!

When a friend is overseas and you really want a picture with her on your wedding day, this is clearly what you should do!

A little fun on the dance floor! Check out the grandma pic- another favorite- she danced the night away!

[UPDATE] I’m not sure how this one didn’t make it into the original post!! I had to share this really cool detail though. One of the groomsmen created the bouquet that Ashley tossed… out of duct tape! Seriously! This might be the coolest thing I’ve ever seen. Warning: if you go this route, please through with caution, these petals aren’t as forgiving as the real deal. Awesome job Jacob! Interested in some for your own wedding- I have some connections. Just let me know!

Here’s one of those “the glasses are chiming again” moments. I love the way it feels like in the middle of all the celebration, they are totally alone!

The big exit! 

Thanks Ashley and Brian for inviting us to be a part of your special day. It was a joy getting to know your families and celebrating such a wonderful moment in your lives. May you continue to trust God to be the foundation of your marriage!

Blessings,

Annie

P.S. Don’t forget if you view this post and leave a comment on the blog, the new Mr. and Mrs. will benefit! For 25 comments, they’ll receive a free 8×10, for 50 comments they’ll receive a free 11×14!

I’ve known Jenn’s family for many years and was so honored when I was asked to capture her wedding to Josh!
We decided to get together to document this exciting time in their life back in my hometown.
Usually, before a session I try to scope out the area, get some ideas and have an “official plan.” Yet, I knew that Jenn would just light up the camera no matter where we were, so I decided instead to go with only one goal in mind: to make each image evoke an emotion. Yes, this is always my ultimate goal, but when you’re focused on it completely it’s amazing how you see things so differently!

As we ventured around my old stompin grounds I remembered a statement one of my high school teachers told me, “Annie, you’re a city girl stuck in a country town!” It struck me as hilarious when I was driving down muddy dirt roads, with tire tracks from huge trucks during this session! I kept thinking, “Man, it’s been a long time since I’ve done this!!” It’s also funny, how a place that is so common to you, can at certain times feel so different and unique. Such was the case with this session- places I’ve seen many times before, but in these moments, inspired me in a new way. Yes, this may seem like a Hallmark card, but whether I’m walking around the places I grew up or walking through the door to my husband and 4 kiddos, home inspires! Here’s the proof:

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We started off the morning at the cowpens where Josh proposed. Yes, you heard me… the cowpens! Well, now you at least understand the title of this post!

I knew that they would be the perfect backdrop!

Seriously! Where else could you find this much character? Throw in a gorgeous couple and you’ve got one hot session!

Don’t you just love Jenn’s dimple? So precious when she smiles!

Quite possibly my favorite of the day. (Ok, there are tons of favorites!)

Style!

Between the dress and the boots, I could have taken shots like this all day long!

Here’s that emotion I was working on capturing. I think they delivered!

The journey down the muddy roads led us to the watermelon fields.

Oh how I love this!

Then we rounded out the agricultural aspect of our morning amidst the strawberries. Yep, another favorite image. Wow! I love the way the wind was blowing Jenn’s dress! 

Their dog Bonnie had to make it into at least one picture. I think she was itching for a turn in front of the camera. 

My goodness. The love is dripping off this picture…

…and this one too!

I’m thinking Jenn could be a model.

Ending with a little fun!

Either Josh is super happy to marry Jenn or he’s glad the session is over. Let’s go with the first one!

Thanks guys for such a wonderful time. You totally rocked it in front of the camera.

P.S. A special thanks to Josh and his mom for the delicious strawberries and onions!

Don’t forget to leave some love (post a comment)! For 25 comments, Jenn and Josh will  receive a free 5×7, for 50 comments they’ll receive a free 8×10!

Oh, this post has been a long time coming! Thank you to the new couple for being so patient while my family recovered and the sessions and weddings just kept stacking up!

You might remember Daniel and Amanda from their awesome engagement session. They were so sweet with one another then, that I knew their wedding  would be no different. My husband, Rahul and I traveled up to Jacksonville for their big day. It was the first time we’d tried our hand at shooting together and it was so much fun! He had the guys totally at ease in front of the camera and kept the smiles coming with his stellar personality!

Amanda and Daniel chose a black and white pallet for their wedding. It was a stunning and classic selection. I already wanted to incorporate some musical touches, because of Daniel’s passion for it, so I knew the piano was going to play a part in the detail shots. Since the keys are black and white, I thought this would be the perfect way to incorporate some more of their colors into the day as well.

As I began editing these images, I suddenly became even more inspired by their choice of colors.

Do I believe every image is best in black and white? No!

Do I believe that black and white often conveys an emotion that color just does not? Yes!

So, image after image when I finished the color edit, I also converted to black and white. The latter began to speak to me more and more, until I embraced my crazy idea and decided to take a risk! Yes, a risk! I’m going to post all of their images on the blog in black and white!!

Breathe!

The awesome bride and groom will see plenty of color pictures, but for today, let these stunning and timeless images capture your heart, just as they did mine!

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Amanda’s day started off with some preparations at a little salon right by the church.

When I saw this sweet lady, I couldn’t resist! I loved that she was reading “Star!” And… this invention baffled me for the entire time. I came home and looked it up. Anyone care to guess what it is?

The day was supposed to be characterized by sunshine and lots of outdoor images, however, the gray sky and endless rain totally changed our plans! Amanda stayed so calm it was impressive, even when her plans for an outdoor reception moved to Plan B!
The dress!Of course, I couldn’t resist the sheet music!
All those detail shots I’d been dreaming up!

Possibly one of my favorite ring shots to date!

My hubby got these awesome shots of the groom getting ready. 

With his gift from Amanda:

I always love images of the bride slipping into her gown, especially when her mom is there to help. 

Amanda and Daniel requested to see one another before the ceremony. I love, love this choice!!
Here’s the beautiful bride waiting on her groom.

Oh how I love her priceless expression! Moments like these are what it’s all about!

A little kiss to calm every one down!

Lovin’ this sequence of images. It reminds me of some of their engagement ones! 

Another tender moment.  Favorite parts of wedding days for me are characterized by unplanned glimpses, sweet caresses and gleaming smiles!
A little bridal party action…yes it stopped raining long enough to snap about 5 pictures of the groomsmen before we all ran back in for cover!

Isn’t she lovely?

Getting a little touch up from her daughter before the ceremony.

I normally don’t include after the ceremony family images in my blog posts, but I just loved this one of the sisters.Attempting a few more outdoor images, but the rain just wouldn’t let up!

Loved this umbrella! Seriously, could it have been more perfect? Black and white, music notes? I love happy accidents!

A few reception details. I love Miss R holding the rings!

Such a great candy bar! Cake time! Don’t these have such a great retro feel?
Mr. J enjoyed jumping off the stage and Miss R loved wearing her Mommy’s veil during the reception.
The new Vogelsong family picture!

And, the great exit! I love Daniel’s jump! 

Congrats to the newlyweds! Thanks for trusting us with your special day and for the privilege of being a little creative here on the blog! May your marriage be filled with joy today and always!

If you view this post and leave a response on the blog the new Mr. and Mrs. will benefit! For 25 comments, they’ll receive a free 8×10, for 50 comments they’ll receive a free 11×14!

I love meeting new brides and their soon to be hubbies and Kamay and Kenny were no exception! They were referred to me through a mutual friend and after scouring my website and blog got in touch to see if I could capture their special day. When we first met up Kamay talked about loving bright colors and her desire for wedding images that weren’t so “traditional!” By that time, I felt like it was love at first sight! Nothing pleases me more than to hear a bride request something unique on their big day!

These love birds are getting married on March 6th at the Tampa Convention Center, followed by a reception in the stunning Teatro on 7th. It seemed perfect then, to meet up in Ybor for an engagement session, walking the streets where they’ll soon find themselves dressed in their wedding day attire.

It was loads of fun and quite a challenge for me too… Kenny is 6ft 5 inches tall! We won’t discuss my height, but let’s just say, I stood on my toes a lot! What a great afternoon getting to know one another more, laughing and cutting up and chatting about all the big plans! Be on the look out for one vibrant wedding- Kamay picked pink and black for her colors, which just made me smile even bigger as it’ll match my logo perfectly!

Without further ado, I introduce to you, the future Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Belcher!

Kenny was so great. Any time I looked up to guide him on the next “move” he was already one step ahead! Lots of sweet kisses, tender glances and hugs. Ah…. LOVE! 

I told you he was tall! Models are tall right? (Sorry Kamay, I couldn’t resist!)

When we walked by this alley, I remembered Kamay’s request for some bright colors. I couldn’t pass it up. I’m glad we stopped for a few minutes. This is easily one of my favs from the day!

It’s not bad in a black and white conversion either huh?!Kamay and Kenny love the movies and frequent this location for dates. It seemed natural that we would spend some time here. I love the way their noses are touching… so romantic!

A black brick wall and a groom in love… WOAH! Another fav!

Ok, maybe I have too many favorites from this day. This couple is just too photogenic! I love the reflection in the window of the sky, which was getting ready to let loose some rain and the light bulbs added a fun touch as well. 

Laughter- what could be better?

I asked Kenny and Kamay to just dance around. I was waiting for that precious moment when sparks fly and they forget I’m watching. Here’s my favorite sequence:

Stopping for a kiss of course!

Ok, hold on, there are some stunning images coming! I mean incredibly stunning! I told you!!!
My goodness! I can’t wait to see their first kiss as husband and wife! Whew! And, what’s an Ybor session without a kiss in the streets? Perfect way to close out a perfect session!
Thanks Kamay and Kenny for an awesome time! I’m looking forward to your wedding in 8 days!! I know you’re going to rock those images too!

P.S. Don’t forget to leave some love (post a comment)! For 25 comments, Kamay and Kenny will  receive a free 5×7, for 50 comments they’ll receive a free 8×10!