Quote Life

Hibernation mode

2012-01-05T21:10:00.000-05:00

There comes a season every year where we become lumbering bears and choose to spend the winter months with hot cider and good books. We will resume blog posts again in the springtime with the rest of the waking world.

Until the birds start singing again, feel free to follow us on facebook and recommend good books to us there.

We can never express how much we love your continual readership and support. It warms our hearts to know that you're on the other side! Stay warm and have a happy winter!

There's no place like Kansas

2012-01-01T22:54:00.007-05:00

We started 2012 in Kansas City with 25,000 others at the OneThing conference. What a blessing it was to meet with God on such an intimate level and jump start the new year, filled with fire!

And since our wandering tendencies led us far into the city, we were able to scope out the most picturesque places Kansas had to offer.

We cannot wait to see what joys 2012 will bring! Happy new year, fellow bloggers!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T11:21:00.000-05:00

From our hearts (and cameras) to yours, we wish you a very happy Christmas! May it be filled with family, food, and more food!

Now it's a party!

2011-12-18T15:41:00.003-05:00

This is how it's done.

The Hewes Family- Family Shoot

2011-12-13T19:55:00.000-05:00

"The family is the country of the heart." (G. Mazzini)

The Gluth Family- Family Shoot

2011-12-10T23:08:00.003-05:00

"Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love." (Hamilton W. Mabie)

Oh, Canada!

2011-12-08T16:32:00.001-05:00

"Your hidden creative talents will soon be revealed." (fortune cookie)

The Kuo Family- Family Shoot

2011-12-01T23:17:00.000-05:00

"Other things may change, but we start and end with family." (A. Brandt)

We're thankful for (in no particular order):

2011-11-27T20:28:00.009-05:00

Tweedle dee:
1) my loving family and my fabulous photography partner-in-crime,

2) dear old friends who have stood by me through thick and thin,

3) new life-long friends,

4) the promise of wonderful people that I will meet (and photograph!) in the coming year,
5) and above all, a God whose mercies are new every morning!

Tweedle dum:
1) a stomach that can expand up to quadruple its size,
2) faith in a God that is bigger than any of us can comprehend,
3) abundance in food, love, health, cupcakes,
4) your readership and encouragements,
5) all my pretty shoes and bags,
6) my 2 rather strange sisters (below) and loving parents.

We hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Love and turkey all around!

In our fat pipeline

2011-11-21T12:42:00.004-05:00

Oh poutine, oh maple syrup, oh snow- oh Toronto!

Bring on the holiday mini's!

Like us, like us, say that you like us..and you have! More than a century's worth of likes. We are so grateful for this warm fuzziness.

We're digging out our stretchy pants and getting pumped to fuel our pot bellies- see you all after 10 pounds! LOVE Thanksgiving!

Autoreply: Out of the Office

2011-11-04T12:23:00.000-04:00

Today I wish to officially introduce a very special individual to you. Phil has been working with me for the past year (and then some) in making QL explosive! This lovely man has brought us to our feature, been our personal spell checker, kept our gear up-to-date, and so many other amazing things. Thank you, Phil, for the inspiration, optimism, and spirit. You are simply amazing and I am so honored to have you on the QL team.

On another note, QL will be frolicking through Canadian territory until mid-November in order to renew our inspirational juices. Our return will bring more visual gifts for your viewing pleasure. Stay warm, Carolina!

The Houser Family- Family Shoot

2011-10-31T12:25:00.004-04:00

"Cause when you're around,
the world is rosey.
When you're around,
you make me feel so cozy

Home is where you are."
(GLS)

Detour from gym

2011-10-28T10:22:00.003-04:00

...because working out is oftentimes overrated. Cheers to a pretty dozen in my awesomely festive (though premature) PJs. Happy Halloween weekend, bloggers, stay safe!

I tease

2011-10-26T19:51:00.001-04:00

"...now the sky could be blue, I don't mind,
without you it's a waste of time." (coldplay)

What? Featured!

2011-10-24T11:37:00.000-04:00

Yes, we are! What a joyous occasion to jump start the week. Thank you, Chez Wedd, for the feature. We are incredibly honored.

http://chezwedd.com/sarah-davids-real-wedding-honoring-traditions-and-heroes/

Lullaby

2011-10-17T12:43:00.002-04:00

"Days feel hard earned
Nights grow longer
Summer says its goodbyes
And darkness covers"
(OneRepublic)

We turn 2 today

2011-10-10T08:43:00.000-04:00

Hallelujah! Thank you, thank you, thank you:

To our clients- You make us feel so lovely when we hear from you. You are the reason our business is successful and we are incredibly grateful for the chance to partake in your life adventures. We cannot even begin to tell you how much we appreciate and adore each of you.

To our readers- Thank you, fellow bloggers, lurkers, and hopeless romantics, for being our biggest fans. You all make our writing here meaningful. What's a captured image if we can't share it, right? We treasure all your feedback so keep them coming!

To the QL team- Thank you would never be enough to cover all that you have done for this business. Thank you, team, for the beauty, inspiration, and support.

"to the apple of my i"

2011-10-08T16:38:00.001-04:00

From all the visionaries, innovators, geeks, loyalists- you will be missed, Steve.

Mini Photo Series- Peyton

2011-09-30T19:45:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to 9 pounds, 7 ounces of pure joy! Peyton Ryan Vogel was born on August 25 at 2:29pm. Welcome, baby, you made it!

In pursuit of happiness

2011-09-25T01:27:00.003-04:00

"The great affair is to move." (Stevenson)

Sarah & David- Wedding Shoot

2011-09-17T03:01:00.005-04:00

"Love itself is what is left over when being in love has burned away, and this is both an art and a fortunate accident. Those that truly love have roots that grow towards each other underground, and when all the pretty blossoms have fallen from their branches, they find that they are one tree and not two." (Louis de Bernieres)

Venue: The Palmer Building
Caterer: Family Catering Service
Florist: PA Reavis Designs
Baker: Crystal Sechlar
Stylist: Andrea Willi

Favorite still

2011-09-12T21:45:00.001-04:00

A sure way to rid the office florescent from your skin- some firefly and Charleston sun. Oh summer, please don't leave.

In remembrance of 9/11

2011-09-09T17:22:00.003-04:00

"When the action is over and we look back, we understand both more and less. America suffered, but America grew stronger. The times tried our souls, and through the trial, we overcame." (Evelyn- Pearl Harbor)

Love in the making:

Picnic in Park

2011-08-22T21:54:00.006-04:00

...with my loveliest accessory and the newest addition to the QL fam.

Let me show you

2011-08-19T09:06:00.001-04:00

...how to move your body! Happy Friday, fellow bloggers.

Underwater exposure

2011-08-11T22:49:00.007-04:00

Oh, the endless possibilities of a point-and-shoot!

The Cupcake Project

2011-08-07T16:24:00.004-04:00

A dear friend informed me of the happiest place on earth- and not long after, I visited this cupcake paradise myself. I met with cupcake royalty at the Cupcake Project, who seemed to understand our shared obsession down to every last glint of glitter.

More than that, I was invited to step into the cupcake suit for the full experience, and treated to cakes and macaroons galore. Thank you so very much for the complimentary macaroons, conversation, and kindness. Much peace and many years of cupcake happiness to you!

Vegas, Baby!

2011-08-03T12:15:00.000-04:00

"Las Vegas: all the amenities of modern society in a habitat unfit to grow a tomato." (Jason Love)

A good investment

2011-07-31T20:08:00.002-04:00

Louboutins can help in the simplest tasks. I highly recommend you invest in a pair (or twenty).

(No men were badly harmed in the making of this post.)

Brandy- Bridal Shoot

2011-07-30T08:05:00.002-04:00

"I slept in castles and fell in love because I was taught to dream." (Faith Hill)

Arizona Wilderness

2011-07-27T09:11:00.001-04:00

"You cannot see the Grand Canyon in one view, but to see it you have to toil from month to month through this labyrinths. But if strength and courage are sufficient for the task, by a year's toil a concept of sublimity can be obtained never again to be equaled on hither side of Paradise." (John Wesley Powell)

Route 66

2011-07-24T10:59:00.003-04:00

"Route 66 has held a special place in the American consciousness from its beginning. The road is uniquely American. There are a thousand stories of hope, heartbreak, love, hate, starting over, and new dreams found along the next bend of the highway we call the Mother Road. The story of Route 66 is our story; it embodies what makes us a great nation. No other culture has had the same type of love affair with the automobile, and few have had the wide-open spaces offered by the American West." (Guy Randall)

Nevada bound

2011-07-16T14:20:00.002-04:00

Bye for now. I'm off to Vegas and will return with baskets of pictures. Pray that I don't gamble my meager life savings or get married to an Elvis impersonator. Here's a little something something from Hickory, NC.

Kassie & Roman- Friendship Shoot

2011-07-12T18:15:00.011-04:00

"Long live all the magic we made- bring on all the pretenders!" (Taylor Swift)

hehe!

I'm Flash sitting

2011-07-08T20:44:00.004-04:00

...for more photography books. My sister bribed me with five of them.

I had high expectations for this elite, purebred, queen loved dog. Alas- I should have know better!

Lesson 1: Flash does not swim nor exercise. Attempting to make him is exercise in itself.

Lesson 2: Flash also likes cupcakes.

Lesson 3: Flash has mastered the art of space sabotage.

Goodbye Stud-Muffin. No more poopie pick up for me (but I will miss you)!

Airy Knoll's July 4th (part 2)

2011-07-06T09:14:00.002-04:00

Airy Knoll's July 4th (part 1)

2011-07-06T09:13:00.002-04:00

There is no better way to celebrate freedom than at Airy Knoll. With good company, we ate to another year of love and laughter. Thank you soldiers, veterans, lovers, dreamers... We are free because of you.

Enchanted to meet you

2011-07-02T00:42:00.004-04:00

Tay Tay, my fave!

Midsummer Day Dreams

2011-06-25T19:18:00.009-04:00

What great joys summer days bring!

yummy in my tummy

2011-06-21T22:42:00.001-04:00

Kidding. This booger was glued to the window outside so I temporarily relocated him for a photo- just for you.

"you make me happy when skies are gray"

2011-06-19T22:22:00.002-04:00

Happy Father's Day to the best father I can ever ask for. I love you!

Glutton's Paradise

2011-06-12T09:57:00.000-04:00

Any rendezvous with Wu-baby (aka: Margie or M-dubs) always ends in a glutton's feast. This go-round brought us to try every restaurant the light rail hits ending in uptown for Taste of Charlotte. Though not as accomplished as in our yesteryears (darn you, fading metabolism) we managed 4 restaurants before the final shabamb. Bliss in my pot belly.

Interior Design Shoot

2011-06-05T23:21:00.003-04:00

Cheers to more happy corners with every visit!

Your love is a melody

2011-05-30T18:51:00.003-04:00

Though this long weekend could have been spent by the pool, it was spent in darkness (literally). With a camp wide electricity outage, stink bug infestations, and meals as appetizing as any cafeteria food can get, memorial day weekend was spend in Lynchburg with my other fellow retreaters.

However, the joy of this retreat came from the persistent pursuit of perfect love and restoration. In my healing process, God revealed great revelations. What a blessing it was to have complete darkness so that God can manifest Himself and consume me with passion.

"You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence." Acts 2:28

We're still here

2011-05-22T16:07:00.002-04:00

Since the world was rumored to end (which I personally believe is absolute madness), I figured why chance it anywhere else but my favorite city: Charleston, baby! Among many other discoveries, the best yet is a beach where the sun both rises and sets over the same horizon. Absolute glory!

..and forget what I said about 7 pounds. I'd gain 7 more to stay this happy. Viva la cupcake!

Hello 7lbs

2011-05-14T22:32:00.000-04:00

..you are the product of much love but you must go. No worries--> new obession = gold, diamonds, and Christian Louboutin.

Dana- Portrait Shoot

2011-05-11T12:27:00.001-04:00

Wolfpack graduates are forever gorgeous. Way to represent, Dana! Congratulations on the end of this journey and best of luck in the ones to come.

To the Love of my Life

2011-05-08T22:23:00.001-04:00

Congratulations, Kinjal! You're a doctor now and I couldn't be prouder!

Frisky Mama- Pet Shoot

2011-05-01T22:25:00.001-04:00

This babe strutted and now has a litter. Won't you please take one? Please e-mail for information and fuzzy joy.

My Quest for Moccasins

2011-04-23T22:43:00.000-04:00

The quest was beautiful and ultimately- successful. Good shoes are always worth the journey.

Sweet Thanks

2011-04-22T01:35:00.002-04:00

...to my dearest friends.

Pasadena Dreaming

2011-04-11T23:31:00.001-04:00

...of sun, of fun agendas, of good friends, of love. Congratulations Joe & Eechin!

Celebrate

2011-04-03T14:35:00.002-04:00

...birthdays, friends, and springtime.

Amy- Portrait Shoot (Part 2)

2011-03-15T12:14:00.005-04:00

A long and overdue IOU for my little sister. Happy birthday!

Spring & Paper Cranes- Portrait Shoot (Part 1)

2011-03-12T14:55:00.005-05:00

Cirque du Soleil: Totem- Event Shoot

2011-03-05T15:30:00.003-05:00

A little part of a lot of amazing. Thank you for showing me the other side.

Happiness in small packages

2011-02-14T09:00:00.015-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day, fellow bloggers, and a heart felt thank you to beloved friends for feeding this obsession.

Working

2011-01-10T10:54:00.000-05:00

...from home today in my pajamas with hot tea. It's beautiful outside.

I'm Addicted

2011-01-05T22:04:00.007-05:00

..and it's suppose to be a cuter addiction. But when I eat these dream cakes till I become nauseous and the sugar overload blurs my vision, maybe it's time to reassess my intake.

Suzan & Alvin- Engagement Shoot

2010-12-26T16:30:00.003-05:00

There is no better way to end 2010 than with Suzan and Alvin. They braved the winter weather stricken with sick for picture's sake.

Since I know they won't, I have to do a little bragging on both of their behalf. Suzan is a graphic designer who is bound for Savannah College of Art and Design and Alvin was sponsored by Nike to run track all over the world. Power couple? Heck yes.

Birthday Thanks

2010-12-25T14:58:00.000-05:00

Twenty-four came with caroling neighbors and a whole hodgepodge of warm fuzzies. Friends and family make having my "too-close-to-Christmas-birthday" as enjoyable as Christmas Day itself. If architectural cakes and coconut purses are not witness enough, I am here to reassure you that my friends lean more towards the eccentric side of society (..and it's such a breath of fresh air).

So with yet another year down, I hope we all can meander this upcoming one with just as much creativity and joy as all the previous ones. Thank you all for a very merry birthday.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T00:27:00.003-05:00

..to all of you. May it be filled with a lot family and food!

Hotlanta NOT on Fire

2010-12-10T18:03:00.003-05:00

..not this time- it was freezing. But, as always, the food was too good to practice any self control and downtown was filled with Christmas splendor. It's a wonderful time of year- let the celebrations commence!

Interior Design Shoot

2010-11-29T21:40:00.004-05:00

So you think you can decorate?

T-givin

2010-11-28T12:10:00.005-05:00

Everything's better with family and food.

Canadia (Part 2)

2010-11-22T13:14:00.022-05:00

Canadian Binge Bliss (Part 1)

2010-11-20T12:09:00.005-05:00

My idea of 'fine dining' never strayed too far from your average burger smothered in grease and love. This was until I crossed the U.S. border with my foodie coworkers whose taste buds demanded something a little more challenging than my typical fix.

Our first Canadian adventure was spent over hours of poor road signs, many U-turns, and the metric system. Ultimately, our not-so-stellar navigation skills led us to surprisingly good places. From bone marrow, sweetbread, foie gras, curred meat platters, cheese platters, confit mushrooms, vineyards, to my absolute favorite- poutine, it's all so clear why people gravitate to larger sizes once they start working. It's wonderfully inevitable.

Shandra- Bridal Shoot

2010-10-27T07:54:00.005-04:00

Remember Shandra? Now happily married to a lucky man! She braved a freezing dip in the downtown fountain, but cheesecakes afterward warmed us right back up.

For Love

2010-10-23T23:59:00.004-04:00

...of seasons.

This is My Mission

2010-10-12T17:46:00.015-04:00

Photography came to me as a bright, bubbly feeling; just a tad bit better than the feeling of popping bubble wrap. I flirted with this feeling until it became an obsession, then a passion, and now a sense of urgency. I wish I can somehow share this sense of urgency with you in a quick, concise way- but I can’t. Consider yourself warned; this is going to be long.

In the beginning:

Our family has always been restless, in the sense that we would never stay put long enough for me to truly make a place my own. But this restlessness has given me the ability to witness many skies and sunsets growing up. From Europe to Asia to South America and back again, I have been conditioned by a loving family to see the world with fervor and zeal.

I remember days when my father used to wake me up before the break of dawn to road trip somewhere far away just for pictures' sake. I remember loving mornings because every weekend's sunrise meant another day frolicking through secret places. It's hard to forget the long three day anticipation when the family would wait for our film to develop at the local WinnDixie. Then the joyous family ride to the store to pour over our tiny 4x6 images.

This love was never spawned by anything in particular because it was innate. Just like how I breathe, sleep, dream- photography was life.

In the middle:

We all know that Asians are stereotyped for always taking pictures. We have cameras everywhere and we document everything. I claimed ownership over this stereotype for the longest time as an excuse to snap shots during every waking minute.

Alas! Photography was not to be my major in university; accounting was- and I love accounting. I toiled day and night to understand every aspect of this new obsession. But while I was flirting the other, photography was ever-present. I vowed not to buy an SLR until I published my first photograph. My first publication came in our school newspaper. It was not a glamorous shot, but the excitement was immense. It was a day filled with victory upon victory, for that day I also purchased my beloved SLR.

In the midst of my college romances, another passion ignited. As strong as my passions are for accounting and photography, they are only a shadow of my sense of urgency for my sisters, for other women. Not feminism, not bra burning marches- but the subtle ache of loneliness that lingers and influences our daily decisions. Most of our decisions are heavily dictated by emotions and want of perception. My heart breaks hardest for misconceptions of what beauty should look like as opposed to what it already is. This passion spawned on towards personal milestones and movements around campus to educate and love. Above all, the tragedy of lost beauty is overcome by love.

Then more accounting.

A little more towards now:

One of my most glorious achievements came with my acceptance into the Masters of Accounting program (MAC). Definitely divine intervention. Since the MAC program is a one year boot camp, I had to take out a horrendous loan and focus all efforts on passing. I was so use to having an income that photography came to me out of financial panic.

The idea of being a professional photographer came to me in the midst of studying tax regulations and audit procedures. Photography blossomed into a vocation, and through my clients that I have experienced extreme love and generosity.

The future:

One day, with accounting in my head, a camera in hand, and women on my heart, I envision igniting a worldwide movement that will empower other to understand what true beauty entails. My vision is to share my passion for photography with others, to equip them with the means to go unto all the nations and share the gift of photography as a means to love one another, to capture memories, to preserve beauty. If we can share this gift wisely, maybe we can all come to a greater understanding of what true beauty really looks like.

With that vision in mind, I am urgently pursuing the three loves of my life. As I continue to come upon new opportunities and learning experiences, Iyearn to overflow with knowledge. My past, present, and future clients, my fellow photographers, my dear friends: we can learn so much from the each others' life stories and experiences! May we never deprive each other of the opportunity to grow!

Can’t you see? There is so much purpose behind my photography madness. Thank you, God, for purpose.

Happy Birthday

2010-10-10T21:33:00.003-04:00

QL turns 1 today! Since my first official photo shoot a year ago, QL has been going full throttle into photography bliss. Thank you, clients, for a year of jubilee!

In lieu of celebrating QL's first birthday, I made a rainbow cake- say *woohoo*! From the deepest nook of my core, I sincerely appreciate all of you; my heart always rejoices when I hear from you. Your love and generosity to me during and beyond our sessions have been incredibly uplifting. Come visit me in Charlotte for some booze, rainbow cake, and talks of feelings- oh such wonderful feelings.

Have a happy week and happy first birthday, QL!

Hotlanta on Fire

2010-09-25T09:13:00.002-04:00

The absolute best thing about working for a big-4 firm is by far, hands down, the travel. Not just because of the many beautiful pounds you can gain from scrumptious foods but also the photo opportunities. Though I didn't venture too far past the hotel lobby, I took every possible picture chance to bring Atlanta to you. Have a beautiful Saturday!

Silent Images

2010-09-10T00:54:00.004-04:00

I got to volunteer for Silent Images here in Charlotte. Hopefully you can get a glimpse of the beauty I have the privilege of working with! Oh happy days.

Dear Local Vendors

2010-08-31T12:53:00.003-04:00

Words cannot express the joy I have received from getting to know small business owners as well as having the honor of using their store walls. A huge, huge thank you to Hope Cafe, Baja Burrito, Cup-a-joe, and Royal Bean!

("Life in a Day" collection snapped with my snippy iphone at Royal Bean.)

Cupcakes Galore

2010-08-25T08:13:00.003-04:00

Rainy weeks are more bearable with home delivered cupcakes. A big thank you to my wonderful friend & client for the beautiful dozen from The Cupcake Bar. I fully intend on doing some late night bonding with cupcakes!

For love

2010-08-23T09:48:00.000-04:00

..of colors.

Asheville Adventures (part 2)

2010-08-18T00:05:00.001-04:00

Asheville Adventures (part 1)

2010-08-16T00:00:00.009-04:00

There's nothing quite like a mountain trip to wrap up an eventful summer vacation! I had the joy of partying all weekend with some wonderful people in celebration of my dearest friend's birthday. We got to hop on the infamous Blue Ridge Parkway, drive in dense fog with zero visibility (you could have cut the fog with a knife!), pick blueberries & blackberries, hike in the rain, see waterfalls, and- of course, take many pictures!

Shawn- Portrait Shoot (part 2)

2010-08-08T00:49:00.008-04:00

Here is Shawn in his natural element. Tip: you'll probably earn a bunch of extra shoot time when you buy your photographer cupcakes from the Cupcake Shoppe. Thanks, Shawn, for setting the bar high!

Not Yet Rain

2010-08-05T09:10:00.006-04:00

Sometimes the view is better from your neighbor's driveway.

My "Life in a Day" collection is now at Royal Bean in Raleigh. Go grab a scone and support your local shops.

Mini Photo Series- Phil

2010-08-01T01:38:00.002-04:00

I met Phil during my trip to Vegas. Since every corner on the strip was a perfect picture spot, we went a little crazy

Thank you, Phil, for your kindness and insight on your lovely state.

Shawn- Portrait Shoot (part 1)

2010-07-26T00:01:00.008-04:00

I made Shawn step out of his element for this one. Normally he could be seen sporting a graphic tee, jeans, and some type of "I'm too cool for school" shoes (who needs shoelaces when you have Velcro, right?). I'm loving the dreamy wonders of the shots. Don't these pictures just make you wanna grab a rugged sailor and go sailing?

Best of luck, Shawn, hope your mom likes these.

Summer Minis

2010-07-25T19:13:00.002-04:00

click image twice to enlarge

.:from the top of
my head:. benny boop and apple of my eye
the "must" pose with kinji at the hill (aka: the "other" school)
you gotta have a lotta asians for it to be alotta party

the happiest girls you'll ever meet
happy birthday ambs!
hOOters imitation (guys like girls who have buck teeth and look this smat)

my adopted kids who loved me at first sight: vegas and petunia
tia bia and the kids (tia looks funny- lets blame it on the film)
big booty, big booty, big booty .:to the tip of
my toes:.

Vegas is Yellow

2010-07-22T14:05:00.004-04:00

From the sun to the mountains to the sand to the buildings to everything else.

With all the yellowness aside, the strip was something else. All the pretty dresses, stilettos, pool water, cocktails, and gambling fun was quite a getaway from the heat. Thank you kindly to the Su family for being so wonderful. Our trip would not have been complete without your generosity!

Hot off the Press

2010-07-21T00:40:00.002-04:00

Since I have fallen for letter pressed goodies, I had to wait almost 5 weeks for these to arrive. It was like Christmas in July- simply fabulous! I would recommend the Mandate Press if you're willing to wait until your teeth fall out (which I was totally willing to sacrifice...what's teeth compared to this card stock?). They'll give you a sweet discount if you're willing to put your patience through the bitter test of time.

Carl- Portrait Shoot

2010-07-19T08:45:00.007-04:00

Carl is the reason why this job rocks. Thank you much for the session and food. Best of luck in your career!

Hot Balloon Adventures

2010-07-09T09:59:00.002-04:00

On our early drive back from Virginia, my dad sighted a cluster of hot air balloons from the highway. He woke me up to show me which I'm sure he regretted because I made him drive 1 hour off course to follow them for picture's sake. Just a note: trekking down hot air balloons is hard. Make sure your gas tank is full.

I'm off to Nevada and Vegas for the next coming week for a photography shootout (a super extreme photo shoot). Nevada = Oregon Trail; makes me somewhat nostalgic for old apple computers and countless hours that can be wasted protecting my people from typhoid.

Airy Knoll- Shoot Out (part 3)

2010-07-08T10:14:00.000-04:00

Airy Knoll- Shoot Out (part 2)

2010-07-07T08:27:00.002-04:00

Airy Knoll- Shoot Out (part 1)

2010-07-06T09:01:00.000-04:00

This year's July 4th festivities took place at the beloved Airy Knoll farm. It is impossible to not feel inspired in the many acres of stunning-ness! Here at the farm, waking up at 5am is actually exciting because the sunrise is simply breathtaking. Happy eye feasting!

CILF- Business Shoot

2010-06-27T15:59:00.003-04:00

I had the wonderful chance to go photograph the employees over at Chaney Immigration Law Firm (CILF).

Big thanks to Chris Chaney and his team for allowing me to shoot for them and for the amazing Brasa lunch!

Welcome to the Family

2010-06-24T16:17:00.002-04:00

I've been eyeballing the Instax Mini for months, waiting for just the right time to pounce. Since my old point and shoot croaked, I have been hesitant to replace it with another one. Finally, I have stepped up and committed to a new relationship with this cloud. The Japanese are so good at making everything look cute; shopping J*style becomes quite addicting. I'M SO EXCITED!

Don't judge me but I also bought letter pressed business cards. I have a new found obsession with letter pressed objects and Martha Stewart (nice combo, huh?). As much as I hate to admit it, I think Martha Stewart is amazing and I wish I can make little useless baubles as good as she can. Then- maybe my family will actually wear the lumpy scarves I knitted them for Christmas 3 years ago. Until then, the family claims that they still have the scarves but have each failed to produce it when I asked them to prove their love for me.

Amber & Rachel- Friendship Shoot

2010-06-18T12:50:00.002-04:00

Two of my favorite girls were scheduled for the last slot in my Saturday Special and we ended up talking about feelings over Cheetos instead (there were a lot of feelings involved!). Since summer has separated us due to work and play, their photo shoot session was put on the back burner for weeks.

I'm glad I finally got to make up your long awaited photo session and take advantage of the setting sun. I have a secret love affair for lens flare and "fluffy" photos- bet you didn't know that! The setting sun always seems to give a little something extra to an image. Thank you two for being so patient, for being such wonderful friends, and for your constant support. Enjoy!

The Grainger Family- Event Shoot (part 2)

2010-06-17T12:29:00.002-04:00

The Grainger Family- Event Shoot (part 1)

2010-06-17T09:02:00.001-04:00

It's not everyday a loved one turns 90! Ms. Rowena Grainger was the lady of the day during the Grainger family reunion/ birthday party in Tabor City. We started our session on the beautiful Grainger Farm and I got the familial insight on the history and secrets of the generations that grew up there. Then the party moved to a local restaurant called the Todd House where there was cake, food, singing, and high spirits.

I was so fortunate to have Mara second shoot with me. We have worked together on several shoots in the past and I could not have asked for a better photographer to help me.

A huge happy birthday to the lovely Ms. Rowena Grainger & an even bigger thank you to the Grainger family for allowing me to be a part of your day!

The Christy Family- Family Shoot

2010-06-14T00:16:00.003-04:00

We headed to the Arboretum for this family shoot even though it was way too hot outside. Regardless, of the splendid sun, family shoots are such a blessing to experience and I am so grateful that the Christy's allowed me to shoot for them. Sometimes words do not do moments justice, so without more blabber, I give you this beautiful family.

Mini Photo Series- Kinjal

2010-06-09T08:42:00.001-04:00

Your summer would not be complete until you visit Duke Gardens with good company. Kinjal is not only my wonderful neighbor but also my partner in crime since 1995. Isn't she a vision of loveliness?

Christy Family Shoot Teaser

2010-06-05T21:45:00.001-04:00

Get excited for more from the shoot coming soon!

Samples from a Saturday Special

2010-05-23T14:20:00.005-04:00

Beauty is cultivated from the inmost part of your being and radiates out into the flesh, not the other way around- which is a common misconception. True beauty can never be seen but instead felt and sought after. This is why photography has always been such an emotional journey for me.

Speaking of pure bliss, I had the chance of photographing several lovely individuals during my Saturday Special this weekend. Thank you all for coming out, picnicking with us, and for allowing me and my lens into your lives.

Kerri & Yousef- Wedding Shoot

2010-05-20T00:08:00.003-04:00

I had the chance to photograph Kerri and Yousef's wedding this past weekend with my wonderful assistant, Mara. Kerri and Yousef got married in the local Mosque in Raleigh and had their wedding shots taken at the NCSU Arboretum. Congratulations & best of luck!