Melissa Smith Photography

Maternity Session / Durham NC Photographer

2011-07-25T13:01:00.001-07:00

I have to admit I posted these images on our Facebook page and was Extremely disappointed when I received the email that facebook had to remove the images because someone had reported them as offensive. While I understand not everyone has great taste in art and possibly even viewed the images as provocative, but we are all entitled to our views. However I figured these images were just way to beautiful not to be seen. Tore' photographed beautifully and I have to say this was probably my favorite maternity sessions ever. She gave me full creative control and she was very happy with the outcome and to me that is all that matters.

So here they are I hope you can see the true beauty in these as I do.

xoxo

BEACH PORTRAIT SPECIAL

2011-07-08T20:47:00.000-07:00

We are so excited about this. Every year we go to a NC Beach for a week and do Beach Portraits, we have so much fun and it has become a popular thing for us. If you are interested in bringing your family to the beach for the day and get some wonderful images while you're there you do not want to miss out on this special. Just shoot us an email or contact us via facebook and we will set you up an appointment.

Please keep in mind these sessions book up fast!!!!

Adam and Lisa Wedding / Durham NC Professional Wedding Photographer

2011-06-12T00:58:00.001-07:00

There was nothing I did not love about this wedding. Well actually it did start to pour down rain just as we started to do outdoor images but we still rocked it no less!! Here are just a few of my Favorites.

Adam, Lisa you guys were amazing Thank you so much...

Elizabeth and Dave / Durham NC Wedding Photographer

2011-04-26T20:52:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful time photographing Elizabeth and Dave's wedding. The Church was simply amazing. I LOVED her dress and she looked so beautiful.

Baby Quinn's Newborn Session / Durham NC Baby Photographer

2011-04-07T11:43:00.001-07:00

Little miss Quinn made her modeling debut. She was a sweet little model if I do say so myself. I was so excited to be able to use my brand new 1930's Shirley Temple Baby Carriage and miss Quinn made it look beautiful.

Jennifer and Andrew's Beaufort NC Wedding

2011-03-31T09:29:00.000-07:00

If I could choose one place in the world to live it would be Beaufort NC so you can imagine my excitement when Jennifer contacted me about photographing her wedding. The Ceremony was held at her parent beach home right on the Marina. The sail boats in the background was breath taking.

Sara and Zach's North Carolina Mountain Wedding

2011-03-30T14:43:00.000-07:00

This was probably one of my favorite wedding, first because I LOVE fall weather, its my absolute favorite time of the year. The colors are just breath taking and second because I LOVE the North Carolina Mountains. Sara and Zach's wedding was a small ceremony with just family which to me is so romantic. My second shooter/best friend Noelle spent the entire weekend in the mountains so we were able to capture not only the wedding but we had a fabulous day after session with just Sara and Zach. As some of you may know I am a huge facebook fan so some of you may already know how much fun it was for Noelle and I spending the weekend in the mountains. Some might say even a little too much fun. But, that's how we roll hehe.

Operation Blog Catch Up

2011-03-30T14:27:00.001-07:00

Let me just start by saying I have been a really bad blogger lately! So I vowed to myself yesterday that I would get better at it. It's been such a busy year that it really has just gotten away from me. Please note that due to being such a bad blogger I will be playing catch up so some of these images you may recognize from previous sessions. So stay tuned for operation blog catch up!!

2011 Brides Choice Award

2011-01-31T11:58:00.000-08:00

Wedding Wire Announces 2011 Brides Choice Awards...

Durham NC – Jan 31, 2011 - WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, is thrilled to announce Melissa Smith Photography has been selected to receive the prestigious annual WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 for Professional Wedding Photography Recognition for the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 is determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from over 750,000 WeddingWire newlyweds. Our past clients are among those that shared their experiences on WeddingWire, the largest wedding review site in the nation.

Melissa Smith Photography stands among the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire community, representing quality and service excellence within the wedding industry. Awards were given to the top wedding professionals across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, and were based on the overall professional achievements throughout the past year.

“WeddingWire is honored to celebrate the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire community,” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “With the annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program, WeddingWire has the unique opportunity to recognize the best wedding professionals across the US and Canada. We applaud Melissa Smith Photography for their professionalism and dedication to enhancing the wedding planning experience last year.”

We are happy to announce that Melissa Smith Photography is among the very best Professional Wedding Photographer within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites WeddingWire, Martha Stewart Weddings, Project Wedding and Weddingbee. We would like to thank our past clients for nominating us to receive the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011.

For more information on the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.

About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire.com, the nation's leading technology company serving the $70 billion wedding industry, is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding professionals. For engaged couples, WeddingWire offers the ability to search, compare and book over 200,000 local wedding vendors, from wedding venues to wedding photographers to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools for weddings, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding professionals, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives local businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. Businesses that join the WeddingWire Network appear on WeddingWire.com and other leading sites, including MarthaStewartWeddings.com (NYSE: MSO), ProjectWedding.com and Weddingbee.com (both part of eHarmony), and Celebrations.com (part of the 1-800-Flowers family of brands, NASDAQ: FLWS).

The Biggest Sale of the Year / Durham NC Portrait Photographer

2010-09-01T07:43:00.000-07:00

Durham NC High School Senior Miss Taylor!!!!

2010-08-24T19:04:00.000-07:00

I LOVE photographing High School seniors!! And Taylor ROCKED it for sure. We spent about 2.4 hours together during her session going place to place and the weather could not have been any better.

HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR PICTURES / DURHAM NC HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR PHOTGRAPHER

2010-08-03T09:18:00.000-07:00

American Tobacco District Engagement Session / Durham NC Photographer

2010-07-28T20:37:00.000-07:00

The last time I was out at the American Tobacco District shooting engagements I was chased down by the security guard on one of those little roller things. It was quit funny. I didn't realize you needed a permit to shoot on the premises so this time I did it the legal way hahah got my little permit and when on about my business!!!
Elizabeth and Dave were great sports, it has been so hot here in NC that I thought we were going to sweat to death out there. It was so worth it though I mean come on check out the dress!!!! I can't wait to shoot Elizabeth and Dave's wedding, she is a true southern kinda girl.

Rock of Ages Winery / Durham NC Wedding Photographer

2010-07-28T09:01:00.000-07:00

Ask just about any little girl what her favorite color is and most of them will say PINK!!! Of course things change as we get older but for me PINK has been and always be my favorite color!!! The day I met Breezy I knew I loved her. She came to me so prepared with this huge PINK wedding planning book. It's was love at first sight for me lol. Their wedding was a beautiful romantic setting at the Rock of Ages Winery. There was Pink everywhere!!! Trip and all the guys looked great in their Pink show laces also I must say. Breezy's dress reminded me of Bella from Beauty and the Beast and she looked absolutely stunning. Breezy and Trip, you guys were amazing to work with and I can't wait to work with you guys again "soon"

The Barn at Valhalla / Durham NC Wedding Photographer

2010-07-28T08:43:00.000-07:00

I am playing a little catch up here so get ready for multiple weddings!!!!
This wedding was Bailey and Will at the beautiful Barn at Valhalla in Chapel Hill NC.
It's a beautiful country setting. Baiely and Will are both Carolina Tar Heel Fans which me being a Duke fan I don't hold that against them. hehe Actually the Carolina campus is quite beautiful so they wanted to do some of those picture there before we headed over the The Barn at Valhalla. Bailey and Will were both so sweet and I really had a great time with them and their crew. Bailey looked so pretty in her dress and I loved that both her mom and dad walked her down the ilse.
Thank you again Baiely and Will for allowing me to be a part of your day.

Laura and Kyle's Beautiful Wedding / Durham NC Wedding Photographer

2010-05-26T21:06:00.001-07:00

I am so happy to be able to finally post some of my favorites from Laura
and Kyle's wedding day along with a few from Laura's bridal session and
their "day after session. It has been such a pleasure working with this
couple and getting to know them. The wedding took place at Rose of Sharon
Church and the Reception was held at Parizade's Restaurant here in Durham
NC. Of course then the next day we all headed to the mountains to
photograph the day after session at the beautiful Biltmore Estate.

I just could not help myslef, I had to post these last few images... Kyle was such a good sport!!!!

Gorgeous Albums / Product Review / Durham NC Wedding Photographer

2010-05-05T17:24:00.000-07:00

Lets all say it together now.... HAVE MERCY!! In our Elvis voice of course!!!!

That is what I say every time I see these albums in person. They are simply Beautiful. This was my first 50 pages album however. Normally my albums are 40 pages so this baby was heavy. I even started to get out the scale but thought it might be a little crazy!

This album is a Fiano Album. I honestly can not say enough good things about this company. All of their albums are individually handcrafted to perfection. The leather is simply exquisite. I love that they also already come with an instruction card to help my clients know how to take care of their album.

The album shown here is a 10x10 Fiano ONE 50 page Album in Black Leather with rounded corners. The seam is practically invisible. LOVE LOVE LOVE it!!

The BEAUTIFUL Packaging

High School Senior Miss Katie / Durham NC Photographer

2010-05-03T15:51:00.000-07:00

I know right, where have I been!! Well it's been a little CRAZY these last few months. Busy Busy Busy!!!!! If you follow my facebook you may know right now I am sick with a respiratory infection!! Let me just say being sick totally SUCKS. But since I am sick and can't do much I thought it would be a good time to catch up on a few blog posts!!!

This is Katie she is a High School Senior at Northern High and will be attending Appalachian State in the Fall!!! Contgrats Katie I had so much fun with you girl!!! Sorry it took me so long to get these posted on the blog!!!

Rockin Family Session / Hillsborough NC Family Photographer

2010-01-29T17:31:00.000-08:00

I am quite behind on blogging sooo I thought I would do a little catching up this evening! Starting with the oh so fabulous Williams Family. They were totally awesome and were totally up for whatever, their one request... no normal family sit down and smile here pictures, they wanted fun and edgy. The rain didn't hold us down either we did what we had to do and I totally had a blast. Definitely love these guys!!!

Curious / Graham NC Baby Photographer

2010-01-29T06:22:00.000-08:00

This little man was the cutiest thing ever. I was amazed at how easy it was to photograph him. In the hour I spent with him not once did I hear him cry. Not once did he sleep either I think he was all about what was going on around him. I can tell he is going to be a curious little thing for sure. And those eyes... those big blue beautiful eyes!!! I am going to truely enjoy photographing him through the years!!

Testing Testing

2010-01-22T22:35:00.000-08:00

Just download a new app for blogging and thought I would test it out!! I freaking love this thing!! Wouldn't feel right without a cute photo. Check out miss Sarah we were playing around before a shoot I had on Tuesday!!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Wedding Wire's 2010 Bride's Choice Award!!

2010-01-19T17:48:00.000-08:00

Durham NC - January 19, 2010 - WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, just announced Melissa Smith Photography has been selected to receive the 2010 Bride’s Choice Awards™ for Wedding Photography!

The annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ recognizes and celebrates excellence in quality and service within the wedding industry, as determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from over 500,000 newlyweds.

Melissa Smith Photography is among the top five percent of all vendors in the WeddingWire community, which includes over 100,000 wedding professionals across the US and Canada. Awards were given to winners across 19 different service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers.

“We are excited to recognize and honor the success of the top wedding professionals within the WeddingWire Community” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “The annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program has given us the unique opportunity to highlight the best wedding professionals in each region as reviewed by brides and grooms who have utilized their services in the past year.”

We are happy to announce that Melissa Smith Photography is among the very best Wedding Photographer within the WeddingWire Network, which includes WeddingWire and Martha Stewart Weddings. We would like to thank our past newlyweds for nominating us for the 2010 Bride’s Choice Awards™.

For more information, please visit our WeddingWire Storefront today at http://www.weddingwire.com/biz/melissa-smith-photography-durham/6215e6fb8a3ecd68.html

About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 100,000 reviewed wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding photographers to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools in the Weddings section of http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/. For additional information, please visit http://www.weddingwire.com/.

Happy New Year ~ And a New Website!

2010-01-10T21:11:00.001-08:00

Well, Happy really really late New Year!!! For those that know me know I have been busy out the wazoo with trying to get my new website up and running. By the way it's still in the works, however it is up I just need to make a few more minor tweaks and wallah!!! So feel free to stop by and check it out www.melissasmithphotography.net

Now, on to the new year... I have to say I can not believe it is 2010 there are days I still feel like a teenager, days I can't believe I have a 10 year old beautiful little girl. There are also days I feel like Thank God I am no longer a teenager haha. Every year I make the same resolutions as most people, loose weight, exercise, eat right, blah blah blah they never work out for me. As a matter a fact it normally goes in the opposite direction. So this year I said the heck with that!! I did however decide I do want to make the next 10 years even better than these last 10 years so I am going to put together a list of "The Next 10" Which is just my list of the next 10 years, things I want to accomplish both personal and business related and hopefully I can accomplish at least 1 thing on that list in the next 10 years!!!

Seems a little werid posting a blog with out at least one image so here is one of my favorites of the girls!

Brittnie / Durham NC Photographer

2009-12-17T11:31:00.000-08:00

I am such a bad blogger these days!!! BUSY BUSY!!!

So, this is the lovely Brittnie. Miss Brittnie is just getting into modeling and needed some great new shots for your portfolio and I was so happy she contacted me. She is so full of personality and a straight up good oh country girl that can sport a pair of stilettos any day!!! Brittnie, also just got back from Iraq which I think is just fantastic!!!! I am so happy she is safely at home with her family now. Check out just a few of my favorites from her fabulous photo shoot!!

Newborn Session / Durham NC Newborn Photographer

2009-11-24T15:00:00.001-08:00

Just a quick little sneak of my favorite image from today's session!!!

Peek - A - Boo / Durham NC Family Photographer

2009-11-17T07:45:00.000-08:00

I just had to post this little sneak peak!! I had a family shoot this past weekend, well actually I have been quite busy over the last few weeks and I promise to post soon but I could not resist posting this photo. This little one had the most AMAZING eyes. The entire family was such a breath of fresh air and I can wait to post more from this session but here is a little peek a boo of one of my favorite shots!!!!

Laura & Kyle / Raleigh NC Wedding Photographer

2009-10-26T21:01:00.000-07:00

I met Laura and Kyle not too long ago and from the very start I knew I was going to love working with them. Most people while they put though and time into their wedding photography they really don't realize just how important wedding photography really is. One thing I Love about Laura and Kyle is they came to me and one of the first things they said was photography was the most important thing for their wedding... well that and the food. Kyle is the food man, he gets excited over food the way I do over cameras and I love people like that. I even got to go out with these guys to the farmers market and to the NC State Fair for a second engagement shoot which I will be sure to post pictures very soon. Needless to say I can not wait for the wedding!!

Kara & Zack / Burlington NC Wedding Photographer

2009-10-26T19:45:00.001-07:00

It has been WAY too long since my last blog. I am definitely a little behind. So I thought I would try to do some catching up tonight and post a few sessions I have done over the past few weeks.

This is Kara & Zach.. These two are way too cute. We had so much fun during their engagement session. The camera LOVED them, and so did I of course!!! She has the most Amazing Blue Eyes!!! I can not wait to do their wedding.

Pink Hair For A Cure / Breast Cancer Awarness

2009-10-07T12:36:00.000-07:00

As you may already know Oct is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. My dear friend Michelle Watkins found out she had cancer in Nov 2005 and until her I had never known anyone with cancer and I remember getting off the phone with her and just crying so hard. I immediately though she was going to die. I am not going to go on and on about cancer and the pain and hardship she went though I think anyone would know that it was hard on her and her family. I have never seen so many people come together and show support for her and her family. I was honored to be called Michelle's' friend and I was honored just like I am sure everyone else was to be able to help her and her family in anyway we could. And we are ALL honored to be able to be out here doing what we can to raise money and bring awareness to this cause.

Every year we all come together and do something. The first year we all went on a cruise OMG you should have seen all of us! I bet we had 50 people over half the airplane was just us!! The second year alot of use got pink ribbon tattoo. Some of the ladies have them on their wrists or foot I have mine on my neck. This year we had a PINK party hosted by Michelle!!! We raised alittle over $500.00 to donate to BCRF and we all got PINK highlights in our hair done by Amanda Kernodle. She worked her but off for 5 hours making sure everyone that wanted pink hair got pink hair.

We will wear our pink hair proud!!!!

There were tons of pictures but I really wanted to post some of my favorites

All the food was YUMMY!

Our lovely Host Michelle!!!

My baby girl getting her hair done!!

My baby and I!!

These are so CUTE...

Bailey & Will Are Married / Durham NC Wedding Photography

2009-09-24T13:09:00.000-07:00

Bailey and Will are hard core UNC Fans!!!! So it was only natural to do some of their formal photographs on UNC Campus... and might I mention it was the first UNC Home Football game this year as well so it was CROWDED!! It was pretty cool though being there and as we're doing pictures all of the football players and band members are walking right past us!! And of course me being a Duke fan it was a little crazy but still pretty cool. There wedding was so beautiful and it was such a pleasure to be able to be apart of their special day. Here are just a few of my favorites!!!

IMAGES FOR A CURE / BREAST CANCER FUND / DURHAM NC PHOTOGRAPHER

2009-09-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

We are daughters, sisters, husbands and fathers. We are roommates, best friends and soul mates. We are photographers with a passion for giving back. On October 11, 2009, we will unite our talents to contribute one day of session fees in support of breast cancer research. 100% of all session fees collected on this date will be donated to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation®. We are hopeful, that with your support we will find a cure in our lifetime.

For more information about this wonderful program please go to http://www.imagesforacure.com/

Melissa Smith Photography is offering Family Sessions all day on this date. My session fee is $50.00 and ALL session fees collected this day will go to the BCRF. If you are interested in a session please email me at smith_photograph2006@hotmail.com or call me at 919 452 2744 Mon thru Sat from 10am - 6pm.

Not up for a session but still want to help out. Feel free to make a donation by clicking onto the link to the right of my blog that say Images for a CURE.

So Far Behind / Durham NC Wedding Photographer

2009-09-08T21:46:00.000-07:00

I am so far behind with keeping up with the blog. Between trying to remodel my home, keeping up with my 9year old, and working like a mad woman I have been quite busy. So I wanted to post just a few sneak peaks to show what I have been up too

Jessica and Royce got married!!

Seniors are so fun!!

My good friend Ashley!!

My friend Tyler!!

Will and Bailey also got married!!

In between all this fun craziness I even went on a small mini vacation for Labor Day!! will deffinitly post pic from that a little later as well!!

Jessica's Awsome Bridal Shoot / Durham NC Wedding Photographer

2009-08-25T23:28:00.000-07:00

I really need to catch up on my blogging. I am so glad I get to post a few of these now. I loved photographing Jessica, girlfriend can work a wedding dress and a pair of boots that's for sure. We went out to one of my favoite parks in Graham to do these. I just photographed her wedding this past weekend and just as soon as I am caught up on everything I will gladly post some of her wedding photos.

In the mean time here are a few of my favorites...

This one is my FAVORITE!!!

Fun In The Sun / Durham NC Child Photographer

2009-08-18T22:12:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I just took my camera out to play for the fun of it, and what better way to do it than to take my beautiful baby girl out in the back yard for a little shoot. With school back in already and summer time about to end I wanted to capture her having a little fun in the sun. I have lots more but wanted to share these since I have been busy and not able to blog... don't worry I will be catching up on the blog pretty soon.

This is my favorite.. she is actually on her rope that hangs from the tree.

This is my second favorite.. I love the way the sun is just surrounding her especially in blond hair..

And her she is just being her sweet self!!

Sweet Hunter!! Sneak Peak / Durham NC Child & Baby Photographer

2009-08-06T19:20:00.000-07:00

This is Hunter, he was such a sweet bundle of joy. I was so happy he got to come by for his first little photo shoot. I hope to be able to photograph him lots and lots of time in the future!!

I NEED MODELS!!!! HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR PICTURES / DURHAM NC HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR PHOTGRAPHER

2009-07-30T17:49:00.000-07:00

I need one up coming 2010 high school senior to become a spokes model for Melissa Smith Photography.

This is a good time for you seniors out there to earn some cool senior pictures. Here is what you have to do...

Your session will be FREE you will have the option to order prints but you also have the option to earn FREE prints. You will get 50 FREE senior referral cards with your picture on them that you will give out to your friends and their friends ect ect... For every Senior that comes in for a session and brings me your card you earn Print Dollars.. Print dollars are dollars you earn to spend on your senior prints. You earn $15.00 per Senior that you referr. If you hand out all of your cards and all 50 seniors come to me you could earn up to $750.00 in Free Pictures!!!!!! Even if you only referr 10 other seniors you earn $150.00 in Free Pictures.

Your photo session will be Free if you are accteped to be a spokes model. Your session will consist of up to 3 hours, unlimited outfits in that 3 hours, one hour will be spent in the studio and up to 2 hours will be spent on location (location will be decided at a later date).

Here is what I need. Either send me a facebook message or an email to smith_photography2006@hotmail.com and let me know if you're interested. I am only accepting 1 girl and 1 boy per school. All submissions must be messaged or emailed no later than Aug 15th. If you are choosen you will receive an email or message on Aug 16th.

You must be free to complete your session at the end of Aug.

Baby Chelsea...Sneak Peak!! / Durham NC Baby Photography

2009-07-30T11:47:00.000-07:00

This is just a little peak from this mornings session!! She was so tiny, and so cute and I just loved having her here. I can't wait to get these processed and show them off!!!

Vicki and Scott Sneak Peak / Durham NC Wedding Photographer

2009-07-28T06:57:00.000-07:00

Vicki and Scott are the sweetest couple. They had such a beautiful wedding. I can't wait to get all of their images ready. In the mean time here is a little sneak peak at what I am working on right now.

Erika and Richard's Military Wedding / Durham NC Wedding Photography

2009-07-26T19:49:00.001-07:00

Erika and Richard were certainly fun to work with. I met Erika last year through a previous client. I knew from the start this wedding was going to be great. Richard is a US Marine so I was honored to be apart of their day. They were married at the beautiful Sarah P. Duke Gardens here in Durham NC. I loved that she use Hot Pink Roses as her flowers they are one of my favorites. The wedding party was so beautiful. The cake was amazing. The wedding party and Bride and Groom were announced into the reception to the song... Welcome to the Jungle by Guns n Roses which was so much fun!! Here a quite a few of my favorite from Erika and Richard's special day..

I love the retro feel here..

HOT PINK SHOES!!!!

Chrissy and Blair / Durham NC Wedding Photographer

2009-06-22T22:41:00.000-07:00

This weekend I had the pleasure of second shooting a wedding with another wedding photographer... Allison Davis with www.sandfootphotography.com

It was the first time I have ever actually second shot a wedding and it was so fun. I got to take all these great pictures with different angles and not having the pressure that I normally have when shooting a wedding. Being a primary Wedding Photographer you have a million thoughts going on at one time.. Don't forget this and that, you want to make sure you get ever shot needed because you can't really re do weddings if you know what I mean. BUT with me being a second shooter this weekend I was able to pretty much just be free with my photography not have all those worries. Not to mention Allison is a sweetheart and such a fun girl to work with.

Chrissy and Blair's wedding was so beautiful. The dress was amazing!!! And I loved that all the gentleman wore chocolate brown I loved it. You could really just see that look in his eyes when she entered to room. It was so romantic.

Amber Maternity Shoot / Durham NC Maternity Photographer

2009-06-19T13:58:00.000-07:00

Aw, I loved doing this shoot. It's a different kind of feeling when you photograph all the different stages of life. I met Amber through a mutual friend.. I was then ask to photographer Amber and Joey's Engagement pictures, then their wedding, and now... they're Maternity pictures and soon I can't wait to photograph their precious little one when he arrives.

Here is just a couple of my favorites from her shoot. More to come soon.

Margarette and Tommy's Wedding Album / Durham NC Wedding Photographer

2009-06-17T08:31:00.000-07:00

Just finished up Designing a Wedding Album for Margarette and Tommy and I just love it. This album is actually a 40 page album but I just wanted to share of my favorites. I love to use use lots of colors and foliage in my books I believe it gives it character and really makes the pictures pop. I hope you like what you see. Feel free to comment on anything you like here.

What am I working on now... OMG I can not wait to blog about all the new things I am working on. I have some HOT bridals and some HOT boudoir sessions I am working on!!

FYI... Images posted below are not in the correct order...

This is the front and back cover for the Album...

Little Miss Morgan : Durham NC Child Photographer

2009-06-04T21:25:00.000-07:00

This sweet little one is such a cutie. Only a week old and I have never in my life seen a baby that at a week old is already strong enough to roll over. All I can say is watch out boys this ones a fighter. I love doing newborn photography, the tiny fingers and toes are so cute, makes me miss my little girl being a baby (sometimes)haha.

Here are just a few of my favorites of this sweet little one.

Vicki and Scott Engagement / Durham NC Wedding Photographer

2009-05-22T18:24:00.000-07:00

I blogged a little sneak peak of Vicki and Scott's engagement shoot earlier in the month but wanted to wait until we got them all done before I showed more of them. We actually did 2 seperate shoots for Vicki and Scott. The first ones were done at the beach and yesterday we did a few more at the Sarah P Duke Gardens here in Durham NC. I can't wait to shoot there wedding in June. Here are some of my favorites, I hope you enjoy.

Gift Certificates..The Perfect Gift

2009-05-21T11:09:00.001-07:00

I am happy to say that I am now offering gift certificates!!! I am loving this idea, especially for all you brides out there. Now you have the option of letting your family and guests know that they can buy gift certificates for you as a wedding or bridal shower gift to help you pay for your wedding images. Talk about a great way for you to save money on all your favorite images or even put the money toward a great Coffee Table Flush Mounted Album.

Not just for brides either, they make great Christmas, birthday gifts. They come in increments of $25 $50 $75 and $100

check it out, isn't it cute!!!

Whitney and Brandon Wedding / Durham NC Wedding Photography

2009-05-18T21:20:00.001-07:00

I actually met Whitney almost 2 years ago when I photographed her sister Tiffany's wedding. It was definitely pretty cool to get to see them all again. The day started at 6:30am at her moms house getting ready.. Talk about dashavou!! I was at that very house 2 years ago at 3am!!! It was funny I had to tease Courtney (the other sister) if she wanted to go ahead and just lock in a date. haha

Anyway, Whitney and Brandon were simply adorable. They have been together for about 6 years and still you could tell that they love each other just as much now as they did then. So, here are just a few of my favorites from their day.

Thanks Whitney and Brandon...you guys rock!!

Vicki and Scott Engagement / Durham NC Wedding Photographer

2009-05-03T20:13:00.001-07:00

This is just a little taste of what I was up to this weekend!!! At the beach having a great time and got a chance to shoot Vicki and Scott's super cute engagement photos. More to come!!

More From Emily and Matt's Engagement Shoot / Durham Wedding Photographer

2009-04-30T08:12:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of my favorites from Emily and Matt's engagement session. We did this session at the American Tobacco Area. It was pretty cool until rent a cop made us leave. Well it was really my fault I had no idea it was private property!!haha
It was fun though and Emily and Matt where troopers cause it was HOT!!! luckily it was quite breezy so it really wasn't too bad. I am so excited to be working with them and their wedding is going to be so beautiful!!! Thanks Emily and Matt, you guys did great.

Emily and Matt Sneak Peak!! / Durham NC Photographer

2009-04-27T22:02:00.001-07:00

Just a little sneak peak of Emily and Matt's engagement shoot. It was so fun!!! We even got run off from the location!!! haha

Katie and Bobby Engagement / Durham Wedding Photographer

2009-04-27T06:25:00.000-07:00

As you could tell from the sneak peak, Katie and Bobby are just adorable. I had such a great time photographing them. The shoot took place at the lovely Sarah P Duke Gardens. As we arrived we had no idea there was a farmers market type thing going on so when we arrived there was a ton of people there. My assistant was asking me "how are we going to know who they are" and since I had never actually met Katie and Bobby I just told her to we would wait by the gate and look for 2 well dress people that didn't look like where shopping for veggies or plants!! hehe It was fun!!! Katie and Bobby will be married in September in a beautiful garden area in Wilmington NC. Katie, you are going to make a Beautiful bride!! I wish you guys a wonderful life together.

The Results Are In!!!! / Durham NC Photographer

2009-04-26T21:44:00.001-07:00

It's now time to announce the winners of the Mommy and Me Contest are...

drum roll please..

Coming in at 1st place is Landria!!!

Congratulations Landria, You have just won a free 16x20 image or your choice from your shoot. You will need to email me the image number you would like to use!! It was a pleasure photographing you and your little one and I look forward to working with you again soon!!!

Congratulations also to Tonya for winning 2nd place!!!! You have won a free 8x10 of your choice from your shoot. You will also need to email me the image number you would like to us!! I had a blast photographing you and those two cutie pies!!!

And last but certainly not least... Congratulations to Kristin for winning 3rd place!!!! You have won a free 5x7 of your choice from your shoot. You will also need to email me the image number you would like to use.. You guys were so fun to photograph those 2 boys or yours are just too cute and I hope to get to work with you guys again!!!

To everyone who entered!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! To everyone that voted, THANK YOU!!

Everyone stay tuned, I will be announcing something new this year!!! Daddy and Me!!!! I will put something up very soon for a contest for all you wonderful Daddy's out there!!!

Sneak Peak!! Katie and Bobby / Durham wedding photographer

2009-04-25T20:52:00.000-07:00

Just a little sneaky peaky from one of my fabulous engagement shoots today. Katie and Bobby are getting married in Wilmington NC and they decide to hire a wedding photographer from Wilmington NC but wanted someone locale for their engagement shoot. That lucky photographer was me... They are such an adorable couple!!

Thank you Katie and Bobby!!!!

TGIF

2009-04-23T22:37:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love Friday's!!! Just thought I would share an image of my daughter that I took a few days ago. I love her eyes!!! Enjoy

WOW!!!

2009-04-23T17:13:00.000-07:00

Over 700 votes in just a few days!!! Pretty impressive if I do say so myself. I want to Thank everyone who participated in this contest. This is something that I think I may do every year as it always seems to fit perfectly into the up coming Mothers Day Holiday. I would also like to Thank everyone for coming to the blog to vote.

You know I am thinking of doing something very similar for all you Daddys out there. After all I was a daddys girl growing up and I love seeing a big strong man go all mushy when his daughters are around or the proud look on his face as his son looks up to him. Hmmm I feel an idea coming along... I will keep you guys posted..

Keep up the voting!!!!

Let the Voting Begin!!

2009-04-20T06:50:00.001-07:00

Mommy and Me... Please vote for the image you think is just the cutest thing you've ever seen!! I am glad I don't get to vote because I would have a hard time.

But please vote vote vote!!!! Just see the name above the image you like and vote in the poll over to your right. Voting will be held up until Sunday at Midnight!!!

In no particular order.. we have...

Kristin

Landria

Melissa

Patricia

Tonya

Wendy

A Change Is A Coming - Melissa Smith Images

2009-04-15T12:20:00.000-07:00

Hehe.. So I have decided it's time for a change. A good change. I am in the process of reworking my entire business. Everything from Website design, blog design even my business name is going to change just a little. I have been struggling with this for quite sometime now. Not sure if I should change, not sure I want to change. Well time to stop being scared and just jump in I guess. When I first started out in this industry I really wasn't sure where God would take me. Well in the last 4 years I have really grown into what I do. I have always had a passion for photography but just wasn't sure if that was Gods plan for me. I have always been afraid I guess. You know, what if it doesn't work out. What if I screw something up, just a lot of what ifs. I have to say I am proud of myself I think I have come along way in what I do. By no means at all am I the best, but I believe as time has moved I have definitely developed my own since of style in my work. I have grown into my work. I pray to God everyday that he keeps me strong in what I do and just lead me. Well, I guess he has decided to lead me into a more positive direction with the changes I am about to make. I have had hundreds of ideas in my head for the past year or so on what I want my business to grow into and now it's just time I make it happen. So stay tuned for some fabulous new make overs!!! Melissa Smith Photography will soon become.. Melissa Smith Images

Every Girl needs her Accessories!!

2009-04-09T07:19:00.000-07:00

Being a girl is so great. Am I am such a girly girl too!! My favorite color is PINK. Anything pink!!! Sooo, I decided to pimp up my camera gear! I found the absolute cutest camera strap that is black and white on one side on the other... yep, PINK!!! I just couldn't stop there, I have to have the matching camera bag!! And while it doesn't have pink in it, it is still major cute!! I got my cute accessories at etsy I love them!!!

Margarette and Tommy's Wedding Day / Durham Wedding Photographer

2009-04-09T06:48:00.000-07:00

Margarette and Tommy finially did it. After being together for 6 years they got married. They were married on April 4th 2009! You would never know they have been together for 6 years, they seem like they just met. They are just amazing, and were such a pleasure to work with. Hope you enjoy the slideshow below.

2009-04-08T23:04:00.001-07:00

Maragretts Bridal Shoot / Durham Wedding Photographer

2009-04-05T22:02:00.001-07:00

Oh how I have been wanting to share these. The wedding was April 4th so now I get to post a few of my favorites from the beautiful and sweet Margarette. Working with Margarette was so nice, she is one of the nicest people I think I have ever met. She is so easy to work with and not to mention simple beautiful. She has such a natural grace about her. Anyway here they are. Just a few of my favorites.

Wedding at Wrightsville Beach

2009-03-31T11:58:00.000-07:00

These are a few more of my favorites from my Wrightsville Beach Wedding. The location at Wrightsville Beach is just beautiful. They were married at the Carolina Yacht Clube on Wrightsville Beach. Sharon and Howard were so wonderful to work with as well as their wedding planner Courtney. She was fun!!! She really helped keep everything running so smoothly and I can't wait for this couple to see all their photos. I hope that they love them just as much as I do.

.

Baby Hunter!!! Sneak Peak- Durham Photographer

2009-03-26T11:04:00.001-07:00

Isn't he just precious!! I love little babies, they are sooo squishy and cute. Just wanted to give you a little sneak peak. Stay tuned for more to come soon.

Sharon and Howie Sneak Peak!!!! Wrightsville Beach NC

2009-03-23T06:39:00.001-07:00

Just alittle taste of what I am editing right now... Such a beautiful wedding on a beautiful (cold) day!!! Wrightsville Beach is so peaceful and a beautiful location for a wedding.

Cool New Albums!!!- Wedding Albums

2009-03-18T20:27:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy lately designing wedding photobooks. I have to say this is probably one of my favorite things about being a wedding photographer. Each one I do is always something different, something more exciting. I recently had to have a major surgery so needless to say I was out of commission for about a month. But, I healed up quit nicely and got back to work. I thought I would share just a few of the fabulous designs I came up with. Feel free to leave coments if you see anything you like. Just a little FYI, these are obviously not all from the same book!!

Gardner/Sharlow wedding

Robertson Wedding

Margarette and Tommy Engagement Session

OK, off to make more books!!!

Mommy and Me Photo Conest!!!!!!!!!!

2009-03-11T12:16:00.000-07:00

My Baby Girl!!!

2009-03-04T21:35:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted alot here lately nor have I done any real recent shot of my girl!!!! So after school today I told her we were doing pictures and of course she got so excited. She loves doing this, she says one day she is going to be a model. I tell her all the time... Baby dream big, and then make it happen!

Anyway here are just a few from her shoot.

High School Juniors and Seniors.. How would you like a FREE kick ass photoshoot!!

2009-02-19T08:16:00.001-08:00

Yep, Totally FREE..

Here's what you have to do..

* Must be a high school junior or senior

* Must be abalible on Sunday March 8th for about 3 hours

* Must become a Fan on Melissa Smith Photography's page (if you have facebook)

* Must submitt one photo of yourself in the Fan Photos Section

* Must be someone whom I have never photographed

* Must live in the Durham, Chapel Hill, Hillsborough, Burlington and surrounding areas.

One Female and One Male will Win this great package!!!

Winners will be announced on March 1st.

Here's what you get...

A FREE kick ass photoshoot at several different locations for up to 3 hours.

Up to 4 outfit changes

Up to 50 fully edited and retouched proofs on a disk

$50.00 Free print credit

1 Free 5x5 custom photobook of your prints

Must submitt photo to smith_photography2006@hotmail.com or if you have facebook do a search for Melissa Smith Photography and add me to submit your photo there.

The Lovely Jess!!!

2009-02-10T17:04:00.000-08:00

This was fun fun fun.. Although, I have to say it was the first time I have ever had another woman in my bed!!! ha ha not like that guys!!! ewww
But we did have fun!!! She is such a pretty girl. I absolutely love how they turned out and I am so excited that she loved them. These are going to knock the socks off of her soon to be hubby!!!!

Road Trip!!!

2009-02-08T13:21:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my sister, my daughter and myself to Bath NC. I have never even heard of this place and I have lived in NC most of my life. I needed to go because I did a bridal portrait shoot and the beautiful bride requested Bath NC. So, I look it up on the net, didn't really find much about it. I did find out it's apparently the oldest town in NC, also home of Blackbeard the pirate. Well, we start out first thing in the morning, my navigation says 3.5 hours to drive, of course I get there in 3 hours and that's st oping for food, and gas. I have driving skills let me tell ya!!! haha So we get there and immediately I want to move there. It is the smallest, cutest, little historic town I have ever been to. And while I have always wanted to move to Beaufort NC (another small town) it's nothing like Bath NC, I loved it. And I really do want to live there. I have just always dreamed of living in a very small town where everyone knows everyone and you can just walk to anywhere you wanted to go in town. Oh well, we can all dream can't we!!

Here is just a few shots we did while waiting on the bride to arrive (since we got there in record time haha)

The Love of a good book.

2009-02-02T20:57:00.000-08:00

One of my absolute favorite things in the world to do is put on a pair of comfortable pj's, a cute pair of toe socks, a warm cozy blanket, a hot cup of coffee and just curl up with a good book. I have read this book countless times, seen the movie oh so many times but I still love the book better. Have you guess yet by my profile which book it is.... The Notebook by the Brilliant Nicolas Sparks.

If you seriously have NOT read this book...WHAT ARE U WAITING ON?? It's a classic, timeless love story.

Here is my favorite part in the story...

My Dearest Allie. I couldn't sleep last night because I know that it's over between us. I'm not bitter any more, because I know that what we had was real. And if in some distant place in the future we see each other in our new lives, I'll smile at you with joy and remember how we spent the summer beneath the trees, learning from each other and growing in love. The best love is the kind that awakens the soul and makes us reach for more, that plants a fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds, and that's what you've given me. That's what I hope to give to you forever. I love you. I'll be seeing you. Noah~ The Notebook

ahhhhh, my heart just melts.

The Beautiful Emily

2009-01-23T09:04:00.000-08:00

A big Thank You to Emily for allowing me to get creative again. I really enjoyed photographing Emily. She really Rocked this. Thank you to my friend Noelle for giving me some creative ideas on the editing. Here are just a few of my favorites. Thanks again Emily!!!!

What happens when friends let friends do a photoshoot!!!

2009-01-18T20:20:00.000-08:00

WE HAD A BLAST. Ok so, no I am not normally all for being in front of a camera, hintz being a photographer I don't have to worry about being in front of it because I am always the one behind it!!! Well with the new year and all I want to venture out alittle more with my make up skills and such. So what do you do on a Saturday that is only 10degrees outside and you have no model.. You get one of you bff's and you set up your lights and just have her help you. It was funny. OMG my living room was a mess. We had make up all over the floor. Then I had so much lip stick on I couldn't move my lips without them feeling like they were going to crack. Also hintz all the weird things I seem to be doing with my lips in the photos!!! lol

So, here are a few of my favorits. Now I did not actually take these pictures.

Photocredit goes to Noel Fine Art Photography
Make Up, myself and Noel
Edits, myself (um yea they're edited!!!!! LOL)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!

2009-01-15T18:49:00.000-08:00

Yes, It's my birthday. Today I turned 33 years old. Not old but not 23 anymore that's for sure. I have always been big into birthdays. I believe you should always be proud and thankful for your birthday. You're not promised the next one that's for sure. Soooo, my day started out my daughter wakes me up with "Happy Birthday Mommy" Then, my husband gives my Pink Roses. Then, breakfast with my sister from another mister.. ha ha my friend April. Then, I went to lunch with some fabulous photographer friends of mine at Chili's. I LOVE and I mean LOVE Strawberry Cake!!! I take that back I LOVE anything with strawberries!!! Anyway so my daughter wants to make me a cake this year. So, I agreed to let your mix it and decorate it. I think she was more interested in licking the batter bowl, I don't blame her either... YUM

Anyway, here are a few pictures of my flowers and my cake which was excellent!!

It's time to start planning for Valentines!!!!!!

2009-01-06T07:28:00.000-08:00

you can email me @ smith_photography2006@hotmail.com
or call me 919 452 2744

space is limieted

me and my angel

2009-01-03T22:17:00.000-08:00

Was playing around with the camera before we went to dinner tonight and got a few cute snap shots. Everyday she grows and grows into such a beautiful little girl. I could seriously take a picture of her everyday. She is the love of my life.

Some of my favorites form 2008

2009-01-02T06:56:00.000-08:00

Got this idea from one of my favorite bloggers and I thought it was a pretty cool idea. These are some of my favorites from 2008!! It was really hard to choose them and I don't think I got them all in there but these are deff a few of my favorites.
Also, a HUGE THANK YOU to all of my 2008 clients, you have all been so wonderful.
I am so excited about all the up coming 2009 clients.

Welcome to 2009!!!

2009-01-01T11:13:00.001-08:00

Well, once again it's a new year. Time for everyone to make their resolutions, time for everyone to feel good about a brand new start. Well at least some people anyway.
I don't set resolutions, simply because I just don't see myself getting all caught up in the mess of it. But what I am going to do this year is make a list. Make a list of things that I want to do before the end of this brand new year.

Of course it would be hard to make that list all at once so every once in a while I may have to ad to the list. So for now here is what I have.

Things to accomplish before the end of 2009!!!!!

* Feel (not touch) but really feel something extraordinary

* Take a photograph of something really unbelievable

* Run an entire mile (without dying that is)

* Make someones Day

* Buy a beautiful peace of Art

* Set aside a day to be by myself with a box of Kleenex and do nothing all day but watch Hopeless Romantic movies

The Sydster!!!!

2008-12-07T13:20:00.000-08:00

It's not often I get to photograph miss Sydney (my step daughter). She doesn't really like to be in front of the camera like my Sarah does. But I was so happy when she ask if I could take some pictures for her myspace page!!! Sooo here are some of my favorits.

Sarah's School Program

2008-12-02T14:28:00.000-08:00

So I went to a school function for my daughter Sarah. It was all about Saving the Earth. I can't beleive she is growing up so fast. It's just so hard to beleive she is 9 years old. I am just proud to be her mother.
Here are a few cute pictures from the program.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2008-11-26T13:59:00.000-08:00

I thought I would wish everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving!!! Hope you eat lots of turkey!! My family goes to the beach for the Thanksgiving holiday every year so I am so excited. We leave tomorrow. We stay up all night and SHOP SHOP SHOP from midnight until most of the day on Friday!!! Yall be good now!

A little teaser from today

2008-11-16T11:46:00.001-08:00

I had the pleasure of meeting another great couple today. We went out to Sarah P Duke Gardens to do some engagement picturs and here is just a little teaser!!

Enjoy!!

Be Inspired!!

2008-11-06T10:01:00.000-08:00

Just doing her thang!!!!!!!!

2008-10-28T21:12:00.000-07:00

Check her out, playing Soccer. and LOVEING it!!!
Not to mention she's pretty good to considering this is the first year she's ever played. We had a game the other night and becuase the other team didn't show due to a party we had a little kids on parents game. That was a blast. I will have to post a few showing off some of us parents.

But here are some of Sarah playing!!!

Margarette and Tommy's Engagement Session

2008-10-18T23:27:00.001-07:00

Was fabulous!!! They have actually been together for 6 years and I can not wait to do their wedding. We went to Cedar Rock park in Burlington and in the fall it is my favorite place to shoot. All the beautiful colors and barns and open fields. We had a great time there today
Here are a few of my favorites. All though it was pretty had to choose

.

Mrs. Kristi A beautiful bride

2008-10-06T08:39:00.001-07:00

This is Kristi, my bride from this weddkend.
The wedding was beautiful and the location was something
like out of a fairy tail. If you're looking for a place to
get married you should deff check this place out.
The Wagner House Located in Clayton NC.

John and Jessica Got Hitched!!!

2008-10-05T17:24:00.000-07:00

Just alittle Sneak Peak of John and Jessica's Wedding at the beautiful Pine Lake Pavillion.

THINK PINK!!!

2008-10-05T09:16:00.000-07:00

Well it's October...Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Having a friend that is a survivor of breast cancer I am always trying to think of ways to honor ALL those people out their that have to fight or have fought this terrible disease.

There is so many resources out there if you would like to do something to help out!

This year my daughter and I decided to go PINK with our hair!!! So, we both have pink hair.

So here are a few pictures of use with our PINK hair.

LOOKING FOR MODELS

2008-10-03T03:06:00.001-07:00

I am looking for a model for a photo shoot!!!

Requirements....

Must be at least 18 to 30 years old

willing to model in a wedding dress that I will provide

Must be a size 6 to 8

No experience necessary but you must enjoy being photographed

Must be available for Oct 19th at 3pm until 5pm

Must be willing to travel to with Greensboro

WHAT YOU WILL BE COMPENSATED!!!

You will get a free photo shoot for up to 2 hours

a $50.00 print credit

and if you do not want photos of yourself in a wedding dress we can set you up an appointment for a 1 to 2 hour photo shoot of your choice with the $50.00 print credit.

If you are enterested please send me an email to smith_photography2006@hotmail.com
along with a recent photo of your self.

Only one model will be choosen.

Notice the Change???

2008-10-03T00:11:00.000-07:00

I am currently editing my blog so right now it may look a little funny!!
Don't worry though it will be cute again very soon!!!

be back lata!!

The Newest Member of My Family!!

2008-10-01T13:38:00.001-07:00

FINN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Isn't he to most precious thing you've ever seen!!! He's a miniture beagle and I got him thanks to alot of really good friends who helped get him to me all the way from MO.

As soon as I saw a picture of him I fell in love with him. Those big ol eyes and those droopy ears!! how could anyone NOT fall in love with him. He loves to run and play in the yard. He follows my Sarah all around the house!

Check out Miss Kandis!!

2008-09-25T14:10:00.000-07:00

This is Kandis, my newest high school senior from Orange High School

It was so fun to do her shoot becuase she wanted to do some indoor and some out door shots.
Normally my seniors want either one or the other but not both so this was fun.
We did a few traditional shots but then I got to do some creative shots of her.
Check out this little sneaky peaky!! Can't wait to get the rest of them finished.

Can't wait till Saturday!!!

2008-09-24T20:15:00.000-07:00

This is John and Jessica, I will be photographing thier wedding on Saturday at
Pine Lake Pavilion
in Mebane NC. It is an absolutly beautiful location for weddings.

I went to the rehersal tonight to take a few pictures and just check out what will go on for that day.

See you guys Saturday!!!

Why does Custom Photography cost more?

2008-09-24T07:23:00.000-07:00

Digital technology is brilliant. The digital revolution has brought amazing flexibility and amazing amounts of control for the photographer, the hobbyist, the professional, the amateur. With flexibility comes a price though. Camera equipment is still considerably more expensive when you factor in its’ lifespan, the need for additional resources for processing those images, the time it takes to get a usable image and the effort that goes into all of this.

Even though you pay $1.99 for a print at your local drugstore and paying for film is pretty much a thing of the past (although you still pay for memory) you may be wondering why you may pay upwards of $40, 50, 70, 90 for a custom photography print.Some photographers hear this statement every once in awhile:

"How in the world can you charge $60 for an 8×10 if it costs me less than $2 to print at the local drug store?

"The answer is multifaceted and has a lot to do with the time, aforementioned equipment costs, artistic vision and reputation of the photographer, expertise and the usual costs of running a legitimate business.

TIME of the CUSTOM PHOTOGRAPHER:

Approaching it from a time standpoint, for instance let’s imagine if you will that you have hired a photographer who has work that you love and that is travelling an hour to your on location session. Time break down:

session prep time
(30 mins - 1 hour, includes equipment and back up equipment checks + vehicle checks)
one hour travel time TO session
15-30 minutes prep time at client’s home
90 minutes-2 hours with client photographing subject one hour travel time FROM session
30-45 minutes uploading time from digital cards from camera to computer
30-45 minutes time spent backing up the original images
2-5 hours editing time to present you with a diverse gallery of edited images 1 hour prep time getting ready for ordering
2-3 hours time with client for ordering images 1 hour sorting through and checking order
30 minutes-1 hour prep time for delivery
30 minutes-1 hour getting order shipped any additional phone time or time needed for add on ordering, shipment issues, quality issues

As you can see, average client time for a session ranges from just under 13 hours to 19 hours dependent on the photographer’s level of service. This is time dedicated only to your session. When the photographer charges $150-$300 for the photo shoot you are not just paying for the two hours of session time, you are paying the photographer for 12-19 hours complete time for your session.

COSTS of the CUSTOM PHOTOGRAPHER:

Regarding equipment costs, a good quality professional camera with a selection of good optical quality lenses and digital storage mediums and computer set up can run from $10,000-$30,000 costs dependent on the photographer. Even though you can purchase a really good quality digital SLR for about $2100 there are still other costs related to photography. A good lens for portrait photography can run up $900 to $2500. A dependable computer system with software loaded for business and creative usage can run $2500 to $8000 dependent on the photographer.

Then come lab costs for specialty products. A good photographer knows the lab is integral to their success. Photography labs dedicated to the professional photographer often cost more and offer a range of products that allows the custom photographer to continually offer new, innovative products for you, the discerning client.

Discussion other costs of running a photography business could take awhile so we’ll skip the intricate details. There is of course much more: including costs of running the business, taxes, studio rental/mortgage if the photographer has ownership of a dedicated studio, vehicular costs, costs of advertising/marketing, costs of sample pieces that the photographer will likely bring to your session, etc.

APPLES to ORANGES:

Often times clients will mention to their photographer that X studio in the mall/department store only charges $25 for an 8×10 or they may mention other things related to discount photography chains. The fact is those discount chains make their money on volume, not on customized 1:1 service. According to several articles at the time, did you know that in February 2007 a rather well known discount department store that started in Arkansas closed down 500 of their portrait studios across the nation? The reason is simple, you cannot make money on 99¢ "professional" prints if you do not sell enough of them. Interestingly enough - those same studios that offer the loss leader packages often charge much much more for their a la carte pricing (as high as $40-50 for an 8×10). The whole reason the big department stores began offering portrait studios in the first place was to get you, the savvy consumer, in through their door so that you could spend more money with them in other departments. Your "PORTRAITS" are considered the true "loss leader".

Going to a chain studio, as a consumer, you don’t have the benefit of 1:1 attention for 2 hours at your home where your child is allowed to explore, play and be comfortable in their home environment, nor do you get the experience that many custom photographers are known for or the lovely captures of natural expressions. You simply get a bare bones, "SAY CHEESE" experience.
Keep this in mind when selecting a photographer.

REPUTATION/EXPERTISE of the PHOTOGRAPHER:

Being in demand, being well known for quality work, having a good reputation often costs time on the photographer’s part. Their expertise comes at a cost, their time learning their craft and learning the intricacies of lighting and the commitment put forth on their end to create a persona about their business that oozes professionalism. A great number of photographers go a very long time from the time that they purchase their first good camera to making money at the business of photography. Many photographers, when first starting out, rush in thinking that the business will be easily profitable in no time, how expensive could it be to get a camera and use it to create their dream? They often neglect to factor in the cost of business, the cost of equipment, software, back ups, etc..

Being of sound reputation, a better professional photographer knows that they must always reinvest in their business to create the reputation of being top notch. To create good work good equipment, reliable equipment, back up equipment is a necessity. The photographer who desires to be known as better/best/unparalelled reputation-wise knows that the most important thing they can do for their business is reliability and dependability. This is how reputations get built. Good work often is a wonderful side product of building that good reputation.

I hope this (lengthy) article helps shed some light on WHY a custom photographer is a better choice for your family’s memories. The photographs that are produced as a result of the professionalism and dedication that your photographer has will be cherished for a lifetime (or more) and great thought and consideration should be placed into hiring who is right for your family’s most precious investment.

Miss Caroline (little sneaky peaky)

2008-09-20T21:58:00.000-07:00

This is Miss Caroline. Don't you just love that name.. Caroline. It sounds to graceful and sweet.

This beautiful little one is 2 weeks old and just the cutest thing ever. I had the pleasure of photographing the family of this beautiful baby over the spring so it was nice to see them again especially Miss Caitlyn (the big sister!!!)

During Miss Carolines' photo shoot I was present during a special moment... her little belly button thingy (sorry I don't know the technical name for it!! ha ha} fell off and everyone was like... AWWWW

I hope to be able to continue to photograph this beautiful family as the years go by.

Baby Josalyn (sneak peak)

2008-09-18T19:39:00.000-07:00

This is little Josalyn. She is also the baby in the "Less than 24 hours" post here. She is such a little angel. I loved being able to use the angel wings. It was the first time for me on a little baby. I also loved how she would just curl up like a little ball. Babies are just so steaking cute. I have the pleasure of designing her mother an Asuka Book using the mothers pictures from her Maternity Photoshoot and then the hospital photo shoot and now these!! I am soooo excited!! Can't wait to get started.

My sweet Pea!!!

2008-09-13T21:34:00.000-07:00

Thought It was about time to do a few pictures with my Sarah. She is growing so fast, it's just unbeleivalbe at how big she is. She has such a beautiful smile.
I look at her everyday and think what a beautiful woman she will one day become. It makes me sad and proud all at the same time.

Our Trip to Maine

2008-09-12T21:17:00.000-07:00

Was wonderful!!!! Thank you to our friends Chris and Holly for putting up with all of us for 5 days!!! We Love you guys!!

Here are a few of my favorites from the trip...

Less Than 24 Hours Old!

2008-08-28T20:35:00.000-07:00

Let me just say, I love what I do. I love capturing a moment in a blink of an eye that will last a life time. A happy couple saying there I do's. an accomplished teenages about to graduate high school, a child so full of life, but there is Nothing I absolultly love more than photographing a newborn baby while still in the hospital. There is just something about a brand new baby and a brand new mommy that send chills down my spine. The feeling is just simply amazing.

This is Josalyn, she weighs 5lbs 7oz, beautiful head of hair, the longest, cuties little toes I have ever seen!!!

If you are pregnant or know someone who is pregant belevie me when I say there is nothing better than having these beautiful memories captured professionaly before you leave the hospital.

These were all done in natural light just beaming through the windows.

An entire day of FUN!!! Just a little Sneak Peak!

2008-08-24T19:53:00.001-07:00

Meet Chelsie, Lorin, and Jenny! Three FABULOUS young ladies I had the pleasure of photographing today. All three of the girls are so unique in their own way. I also got to use my brand new backdrop, it's is just so freaking cute! haha

I just could not help myself, I took soooo many different shots but it was so worth it. I am so excited to edit them all but there is just so many!! ha ha So I did want to show just a few. I choose "one" of my favorites of each girl to show off. It was actually harder than I thought it would be to choose my favorite!

HI YALL!!!! I'M BLUE!!!

2008-08-20T10:13:00.000-07:00

ha ha.

Ok so I discovered I really like the blue affect!!! of course I was playing with some things on my camera and my daughter was playing with my Sony Cyber Shot camera and she took this so I thought I would play with it.

I think it's the only picture I have with this camera.
oh well, thought I would share and say HI YALL!!