Michael Juiliano photography

Michelle and Matthew are married!

2010-10-07T01:43:00.000-05:00

Here's a few from Michelle & Matthew's wedding up in MA. Good Times!

Never Forget 09/11/01

2010-09-11T08:46:00.023-05:00

I'm in Boston for a wedding taking some time to reflect and pray.

I will never forget 09.11.01.

I remember the exact moment I had learned about what was happening. I turned on the news and saw that image forever etched in my mind of the hole in the north tower. I was curious to know what happened but assumed it was something accidental caused by a small personal aircraft. The hole didn't seem that big at first. The camera was zoomed in tight. I had no idea what was happening or about to happen.

Where were you?

God Bless The Victims, families, loved ones and friends directly impacted by the tragedy of 09/11/01. God Bless America.

______________________________________

On September 11, 2002 my sister Kim gave birth to my wonderful niece Courtney. I love you Kim and Courtney. Thank you for the smiles on this day associated with so much sadness.

Dear Courtney,

Happy 8th Birthday Courtney! I know it's crazy sharing your day with a day that hurts so bad for so many people but we could not be more blessed to have you in our world. You are full of smiles and laughter and life. I love you lots! I'm so glad I got to celebrate your birthday a few weeks early while I was in Florida last month. Are you still having so much fun riding your big girl bike? I miss you and can't wait to see you again as soon as possible!! Have some more cake for me!

Love Uncle Mike

Hayley & Justin are married!

2010-09-07T16:27:00.001-05:00

This lovely couple said their "i dos" at the Farm just outside of Asheville NC. I'm honored to have been a part of their special day. Thanks Hayley & Justin, I wish you a life-time of love, laughter, health & happiness.

God Bless America:

2010-07-04T09:53:00.001-05:00

Have a safe and fun independence day.

I am not Michael Juliano:

2010-07-01T08:53:00.000-05:00

I have been contacted several times by people from model mayhem claiming they were contacted by "Michael Juliano" involving transfer of funds or something. Some people even fell for it. This is not me. I don't spell my name that way and do not own a hotmail account. I've ignored several of these prior but here is the last email I received from someone supposedly involved in a scam:

"Hello Michael.

I’m writing to ask You whether You have been in touch with a XXXXXXXXX in Norway to ask her to be photographed.

She is a good friend of me, and she has been contacted by someone using Your name and has been in that contest been reported for fraud by a German bank.

Basicaly this happened:

She was contacted and told that she was wanted for a photoshoot, by Michael Juliano.

This Michael Juliano send her a check of 3000€ and told to check it in and send over some of it to another account.

She did all of this, then after a while she was contacted by the bank and told that the check was fauny.

The sender “Michael Juliano” used a hotmail account, so I would like to know whether you have a hotmail account?

If this is a scam that has nothing to do with you, I would recommend You to put up a “Scam Warning” on you website.

Hope to hear from You soon.

Best regards

XXXXXXXXXXXXX

Here is one of the scam emails from "Michael Juliano"

Hello,

Glad to read back from you here you will find all details for the job...

Job Location
The shooting will hold at a rented photographers studio in your location,so you don't have to worry about

traveling,the name and address of the studio will be forwarded to you before the date of the shooting,all make

up will be taken care of in the studio.You can come along with any body of your choice on the day of the

shooting,your mum,dad,friend,body-guard anybody you wish to come with just for you to feel more

comfortable.

Job details
You have 12 different Fashion outfits to cover,which would be provided by our client on the day of the

shooting.

Types of cloths
Jeans and Jackets

Name of client
Rosal Karen

Company Name
Beth Designer

Job percentage
The total pay for the job is $1,800 and you get $350 as your part payment.

Shooting Date
the date for the shooting is not fix,I will have to make arrangement for that ahead from now,I will email you

the exact date for the shooting a week before as soon as the arrangement is completed with our client.

Requirements
Very Attractive,Classy,In Great Shape,Extremely Outgoing & Personable,outspoken,Must be Reliable.

Payment Policy
As part of my working policy and ethics,I receive part payment from any client before I proceed with any job

and balance immediately after the shooting,this is to identify a serious client and ascertain the job,I hope you

comprehend this fact.I will keep you updated as to when our client wants to make upfront payments

Expectation..
you need to have good and attractive poses .(start practicing) Basically this is all required of you,for your

makeup, my client will be taken care of it,you don't have to be bother for any make up,please get in touch

with me if you will take the job and we can go from there,just let me know if you will take the job to

commence with next arrangement..

Please I'd like you to check your email on a regular bases, I might have updates for you.

Michael.

I am an established business in the USA and would not be involved in a scam in the USA, Europe or anywhere else. I spell my name "Juiliano". I often play with the rules of english grammar but I'd like to think my wording makes more sense than this. If you receive contact I recommend you be skeptical. Think twice before you take part in someone wanting you to transfer funds for or to them that you don't know. (duh) These scams have been going on forever in many shapes and forms. Be aware of the many scams out there. Talk to other people that have been fooled. Don't be that desperate and fall for one of these scams. Contact the website and report what you received. I was able to find several examples of this scam just doing a simple google search.

I'm sorry this happened to you but I am not the culprit.

Michael JUILIANO

Fellow photographer Marc Damon speaks well on this here.

congrats Lyndsey & Mitch!

2010-03-29T17:18:00.002-05:00

well check that out!

2010-03-15T14:00:00.000-05:00

Notice that little wedding wire widget over there? I'm proud to announce/showcase my www.weddingwire.com ratings! Are you a client-friend that would love to help me out? Just click on the link below to rate me.

Review Michael Juiliano Photography at WeddingWire

I appreciate your feedback. www.weddingwire.com is becoming increasingly popular. It's kind of like trip advisor for wedding vendors!

Thanks...love you mean it!

if we can't meet:

2010-03-10T10:14:00.002-06:00

Wendy and I never had a chance to meet before their wedding. All of our interactions were handled on the phone or through the internet. That didn't stop us. We had an amazing day together and Wendy & Stephen's images have been featured in several magazines. Wendy was kind enough to send over these words of encouragement for future client-friends that may be a bit weary about not meeting in person. Thanks Wendy you are a sweet heart!

"I thought planning my wedding from long distance might be stressful, but deciding on Michael as our photographer was one of the easiest and best decisions we made. We came across his website and immediately fell in love with his style. We got to know him over the phone and through email, so that by the time the wedding rolled around, it was like working with an old friend.
Michael was incredibly fun to work with and gave us the most beautiful images to remember our wedding by. Several magazines have featured his pictures of our wedding. He captured the joy and love of the day perfectly."

Just in time for the cold: I'm Hot in Little Rock!

2009-12-16T11:39:00.003-06:00

Hot in Little Rock is the who's who of the what's what. I was privileged to recently photograph some of their "mini-staffers!" They were lots of fun. Thanks so much for the write up Hot in Little Rock...you rock! Bloglove.

wonderful fall sunset:

2009-12-01T11:23:00.001-06:00

Grabbed this one while shooting an event at moss mountain, AR.

Veterans Day Wedding Photo Give Away

2009-11-11T12:35:00.002-06:00

Veterans Day Wedding Photo Give Away

I'm looking for a lucky in love Vet (or a pair of Vets even better!) who's planning on getting hitched. I would be honored to offer up to 5 hours of photography coverage, on-line hosting and the images on disc for the lovebirds to do as they wish......

Cost? FREE! ZIP, ZIP,ZERO, NADA!!!

It's the least I can do to thank you for your service.

Know anyone? Send them my way. Since this is a giveaway I need to keep it to LIttle Rock and surrounding areas within a few hours.

Please contact me or send have them contact me here or email at michaeljphotography@gmail.com

Thank you Vets, for all you have done and for continuing to protect our freedom.

~Michael Juiliano
www.michaeljuiliano.com

Meet Mia:

2009-10-20T22:13:00.000-05:00

UPDATE: MIA HAS BEEN ADOPTED!!! YEAH!!!!

This is Mia. Short for"Mama Mia" She's a redbone coonhound with a heart of gold. She's friendly, playful and sooooo affectionate. She's up for adoption through Out of The Woods. I got to spend some time with Mia during a doggie lifestyle session so we could get some shots of her showing off her wonderful personality. Boy did she show off! She was so excited to show me everything she can do and all of her favorite toys that she wore herself out. By the end of our shoot she was putting her head in my lap looking for lovin! Dogs like Mia make it hard to walk away without having to explain to our two dogs that they have a new member of the family. I'm working with Out of the Woods each month photographing their pet of the month with hopes of helping these great fuzzy friends find some loving homes. It's going to be hard to not end up with 12 new friends of my own at the end of the year!

Here's some information from Mia's adoption page:

"Mia was found in the woods with 9 puppies that were only a day old Memorial Day weekend. She was covered in mange and was malnourished. She was very protective but eventually allowed her rescuers to take her and her pups. She was taken in and was a wonderful mother to her pups. Her puppies have all been adopted and now Mia deserves a new home to be loved and spoiled. Mia is not more than 1 ½ years old most likely since she has grown a bit since being rescued. She looks like a redbone hound with a beautiful shiny silky coat and weighs about 48 lbs. She gets along great with other dogs and loves to play with them. She is housetrained and is very calm and well mannered and learns quickly. She would make a great companion pet for anyone old or young."

blog love:

2009-10-05T12:39:00.001-05:00

Ka cinematography out of Charlotte NC shared some blog love along with the amazing footage he captured of Melissa & Kyle's wedding in Lake Lure NC.

Check it out here

A wonderful weekend in store and one revisited:

2009-09-04T08:46:00.001-05:00

While I gear up for my sister that I haven't seen in two years to visit from FL I wanted to post Wendy & Stephen's slide show and reminisce a bit about their wonderful weekend Biltmore Estate wedding weekend.

Have a wonderful and safe holiday weekend.

Click here to view their slideshow!

can you feel the blog love tonight?

2009-07-21T12:41:00.000-05:00

With This Ring! did a great feature on Wendy & Stephen's amazing day!

Thanks so much for featuring so many photos.

Surf on over and check it out.

Out of the Woods

2009-07-15T09:15:00.000-05:00

I'm happy to be working with the wonderful organization Out of the Woods . I'll be photographing some of the precious critters they're trying to find homes for. I got the chance to meet four of them the other day. I even got to name this little guy. Please say hello to Benjamin or "Benny" for short.

~From their website

Out Of The Woods was established in early 2007 by experienced rescuer Kathy Woods along with Shawn Schouweiler and fellow friends in rescue who wanted to fill a need for a different kind of rescue; a need in where they believe that all domesticated animals regardless of their size, breed, color or situation deserve to have a loving home.

We rescue our pets primarily from the rural areas of Arkansas, some are abandoned and/or abused. We rescue from animal "hoarders" or collectors who take in more than they can possibly care for, sometimes in the hundreds.

We promote efforts to spay and neuter all pets; one of the ways we do this is by assisting in finding low cost sterilization to families in rural areas with limited incomes. We must stop the needless breeding that occurs when families cannot afford to properly care for their pets.

We also focus on helping independent rescuers who take in and then care for "stray" pets until an adoptive home is found.

OOTW is a private, not-for-profit, 501(c) (3) organization.

http://www.ootwrescue.org/

You can view the rest of the photos on my Facebook page .

One of my secret weapons:

2009-07-06T08:42:00.000-05:00

I am always asked "What have you seen?" , "How would you do this?" or if I have any recomendations from many brides. After I first and foremost recommend they hire a planner, I usually can provide some pretty good insight to the day.

And now..... from my top secret, under lock and key, if i tell you I might need to kill you bookmarks comes my number one secret weapon.

It's no secret StyleMePretty.com hands down, take the cake for the most informative and inspiring wedding site I have ever read. If you are planning a wedding, love weddings, work with wedding, would like to have a wedding someday or used the word wedding five times in once sentence like I did, head over there stat!

Happy July Fourth!

2009-07-04T08:25:00.001-05:00

i can see clearly now...
Originally uploaded by mikejuiliano

"For more than two centuries now, our country has inspired hope, and fostered change at home and abroad. So today I hope you will join me in expressing your thanks for our freedom, appreciation for the military personnel who protect us, and gratitude for the opportunities and the responsibilities that come with being an American."~ Bill Clinton

Melissa & Kyle: Coming Soon!

2009-06-30T13:39:00.000-05:00

Melissa & Kyle's photos are on the way! Pre-register to be notified when they are available to view/order by clicking here.

Wendy & Stephen, Asheville NC

2009-06-10T11:02:00.003-05:00

Wendy & Stephen were married at the amazing Biltmore Estate in Asheville NC. Here's a little sneak peek. More details and photos soon!

Click here to register to view their photos once they go live!

Facebook Fans:

2009-05-12T12:48:00.002-05:00

Join my fan page on facebook!

Tony & Laine : Best Time Ever!

2009-04-14T15:33:00.011-05:00

"To me, there are three things we all should do every day. We should do this every day of our lives. Number one is laugh. You should laugh every day. Number two is think. You should spend some time in thought. And number three is, you should have your emotions moved to tears, could be happiness or joy. But think about it. If you laugh, you think, and you cry, that's a full day. That's a heck of a day. You do that seven days a week, you're going to have something special."

~Jim Valvano

3 is a magical number. So magical in fact it's Tony and Laine's lucky number. The amount of times three comes into the lives of these two is unbelievable. In fact take a look at their wedding date.

03.21.09

Yup, 03, 2+1=3 and 3 goes into 9 3 times. The wedding weekend lasted 3 days, the cake had 3 layers, three was individually their lucky numbers before they got together, their first date was on Laine's 33 birthday, Tony proposed on their 3rd anniversary and on and on and on. Perhaps Tony and Laine will talk about it more in the comments. Care to share guys?

Tony and Laine were married by the Mayor of Little Rock in the living room of her father's house in LIttle Rock, AR. The ceremony could not have been more personally intimate. It's hard to shoot when your fighting back tears. Darn you two! After they were made Mr & Mrs Poe we headed down town for some photo play time. I love Tony and Laine. I have never spent time with them that wasn't involved in laughter, their wedding day was no different. Sorry guys I laughed way more then 3 times. Maybe something like 3 times every 30 seconds?

A mega party/reception like only Tony and Laine can do was held at Historic Union Station in Little Rock. Next Level Events did a fabulous job. Tony and Laine shared a first dance to a rockin' rendition of "Three is a magical number." (as in Schoolhouse Rock, how perfect is that?)by their reception band The Libra's.

We danced, we sang, we ate, we drank, we were merry, we took pictures in the photo both and man did we laugh.

Thanks so much for allowing me the pleasure of photographing your most special of days. You seriously rock.

Click here to see their slideshow!

Happy Easter:

2009-04-11T18:42:00.001-05:00

The first sign of spring!
Originally uploaded by ♥ shhexycorin ♥

No Eastery photos so I grabbed this one from Flickr.

View my Flickr stream:

http://www.flickr.com/mikejuiliano

Have a wonderful Easter.

I want:

2009-04-04T09:48:00.002-05:00

Until the Nova comes back this will more than do.

So sexy. I'm thinking this will make the perfect 40th birthday present for myself in 2010.

Sorry Tony:

2009-04-01T09:49:00.000-05:00

All this talk about your beautiful bride...blah, blah,blah. Here's a shot featuring Mr.Poe.

Featured:

2009-03-31T13:55:00.001-05:00

One of my photos of the new Mrs. Poe was used in the High Profile section of the Sunday Arkansas Gazette. Isn't she gorgeous?

The Present Poes:

2009-03-22T10:13:00.001-05:00

Tony and Laine are married! Here's a sneak peek.

The Future Poes:

2009-03-16T11:58:00.000-05:00

Tony and Laine are two of my favorite people are getting married soon. They've asked me to photograph their wedding and I'm honored to be a part of such a wonderful thing. I cannot WAIT. We had a fun little engagement session around Little Rock this past weekend. More to post soon.

Click here to see their SlideShow!

Hmmmmm. Grrrrrrrrr. Ugh.

2009-02-16T06:24:00.000-06:00

My internet connection does not like large uploads. This is bad for me since that's how I roll. I'm looking into it. I have slideshows and such to upload. Sorry for the delays. Stay tuned.

Claudia & Stephen

2009-02-14T23:23:00.000-06:00

Claudia and Stephen were married at the amazing Clositer’s Castle in Lutherville, MD . After a quaint heartfelt ceremony in the loft, their friends and families gathered downstairs for an evening of delicious food and beverage, some lovely words and a party that’s sure to go down in history. It was an honor being a part of your special day Claudia & Stephen. Thank you so much. I wish you a lifetime of love, laughter ad health.

Click here to view their slideshow!

Click here to view their photos online at Pictage.com

Laura & Tom are married!

2009-01-02T11:23:00.001-06:00

Laura and Tom were married at the beautiful Balitmore Basilica. We enjoyed some photo time before the ceremony at the Tremont Grand Historic where they were having their reception later in the day. I could have spent the entire day shooting at either one of these locations so to have had the opportunity at both in one day was amazing. I wish I could have been there for the reception but I'm thankful for the time I had regardless. Laura and Tom were great sports and down for whatever ideas I could come up with. Laura, Tom and I didn't have the opportunity to meet or even talk on the phone before the wedding, (Tom booked me via email, future husbands take note, I'll ask Tom if he'll be holding a pointers seminar) nonetheless, we hit it off perfectly once we met. Laura and Tom, you two were great. I had a great time getting to know you as well as your friends and family during your wonderful wedding. I wish you a lifetime of love, health and happiness. It was a pleasure meeting you both.

Click here to see their slideshow!

Have a Happy and Safe Holiday!

2008-12-24T19:55:00.000-06:00

Lisa & Greg are married:

2008-12-05T11:23:00.000-06:00

Lisa and Greg were married during a gorgeous fall garden wedding in Greg's parent's back yard in Ellicot City, MD. Lisa is a talented artist and did an incredible job on the details of the day. There was so much to photograph I wished I had more arms. I asked Lisa for the cast behind her wonderful wedding so we could shout them all out here.

Loane Brothers provided the tents.

Dionysus Kitchen provided the amazing food, catering and on location chefs.

Caroline's Cakes of Annapolis was responsible for the delicious cake.

Morning Star Baptist Ministry provided the soloist for the ceremony.

Cate Buscher ,the wedding coordinator

The Joker's Wild the AMAZING swing band. So much fun.

Crimson and Clover Designs provided the flowers.

Nursery Men provided the seedling favors (so cool)

Mandi Makeup Lisa's makeup artist.

Each vendor did an amazing job and was an absolute pleasure to deal with. This was a classy one-of-kind event full of love and beauty and I'm thankful to have been a part of it.

Lisa and Greg, thank you so much. I wish you a lifetime of love, health and happiness. Please keep in touch.

Click here to see their slideshow.

(sorry for the technical issues. i'm working on it)

To contact Lisa for event design and calligraphy please email her at lbbluesky@hotmail.com. She's amazing!

Seasons Spam Greetings:

2008-12-04T11:23:00.002-06:00

"Hello ,
My name is Paul Vans from Taiwan, Complement of of the season in
advance. season gift needed for my customers and staffs. I will like to place an order from you but will like to know how long it takes to ship down to Taiwan and if you take credit card as method of payment. kindly get back to me if this is possible and don't forget to include your website so that i could choose or pick out my order for you to quote me and this order is needed on or before 21st December."

Tis the season for overseas purchasing spam email. I really enjoy reading them.

Seasons Greetings Everybody!

Things I like: Folgers Simply Smooth

2008-11-28T11:23:00.000-06:00

Sure I've blogged about coffee a few times here, but allow me one more. After my surgery I've had some terrible acid issues. I tried to quit coffee. I went 3 weeks and then took a road trip again. Road trips need coffee. I am off the coffee wagon again and was feeling the pain. A friend recommended decaf and I tried it but for some reason it didn't taste the same. It's not the caffeine but the acid. I've been experimenting with latte's and cafe au'lait to which both have proven promising except for the fact that it's not a cup of coffee. I like a CUP of coffee. I enjoy lattes and au'lait but those are more of an occasional delight in my eyes.

I happened upon this gem during my first Little Rock grocery stop.

My acidy coffee woes may be over. It's been about 4 days and so far so good. Folgers always was my favorite cheap coffee for home preparation so this makes me extra happy. This version tastes great. Still taste like "regular" coffee to me. I had it this morning on an empty stomach and all I can say is "Woooohoooo, it's working!" Acid be gone.

Give Thanks:

2008-11-27T11:23:00.000-06:00

"The First Thanksgiving", painting by Jean Leon Gerome Ferris (1863–1930).

I'm thankful for many things in my life. My health, my friends, my family, the good things I've been fortunate to receive and the not so good things I've learned from.

Happy Thanksgiving.

relocated:

2008-11-24T11:16:00.003-06:00

I write this blog from my new home town of Little Rock, AR. I made the drive this weekend after the wedding I shot in Baltimore on Saturday. I'm excited for some reinvention in a great new place. It's 61 degrees right now. When I left MD it was in the 20s. Oh yeah.

So what does this mean for my clients? Nothing really. I'm just a plane-ride away. See you soon.

my new cards:

2008-11-17T10:01:00.000-06:00

Ashley and David are husband and wife!

2008-11-10T08:11:00.000-06:00

Ashley and David were married at the River Run Country Club in Davidson NC. After a wonderful little ceremony outside on the knoll we took some time for some photo ops around the grounds. The reception followed shortly afterward and was full of loving support for Ashley and David. Thanks so much for making me a part of your special day. I wish you a lifetime of laughter, health and happiness.

Click here to see their slideshow !

Album Timeframes:

2008-11-04T16:42:00.000-06:00

I have been contacted by the my album companies that the busy season is effecting album production timeframes. If you would like to have your album by Christmas, final design will need to be approved by November 21st. If you are still working on your selections the design time is normally 5-10 business days after letting me know your selections have been made. Please keep this in mind if you are looking to meet the November Holiday deadline.

If you are not in a hurry this is good.

Thanks. Let me know if you have any questions or need any help.

soooooo where's the slideshows?

2008-10-30T20:38:00.000-05:00

my internet connection has been less then stellar these days. i'm behind on some slideshows because of this. i hope to remedy asap.

I met baby Marcella!

2008-10-22T08:57:00.000-05:00

holy cute thing! more soon...

Amie & Dan sneak peek:

2008-10-15T13:15:00.000-05:00

Amie and Dan we're married in Rockville MD last weekend. We spent some time together pre-wedding cruising around DC for some fun photo-ops. It's SO nice having time to be creative instead of the usual 10-20 minutes in between ceremony and reception after group portraits. Thanks so much for considering this Amie and Dan! Good times!!

could you do me a favor?

2008-10-08T20:31:00.000-05:00

if you are reading this please send an email to momentsbymichael@mac.com

if i respond we are in good shape. please acknowledge the fact that you received my response.

if you do not receive a response, acknowledgement of a response or get an error please let me know here or send an email to mikejuiliano@gmail.com

thanks so much. i've been told m email is getting bounced by several different people so I need to test it out.

not good to not get email these days...

thanks all.

Jamie & Joe:

2008-10-02T13:31:00.000-05:00

Jamie and Joe were married 08-23-08. After a quaint little ceremony at Saint Paul's Anglican Church in Crownsville Jamie, Joe, their friends and family headed over to Kaufman's in Gambrills MD for party time!

Click here to see their slideshow!

Addresses O' Plenty:

2008-09-26T20:48:00.000-05:00

As you noticed I'm quite the road warrior. I've even been called a jet-setter. This is fun for me but makes it hard when you have mailed me something and want to know if I got it. Thanks to the the magic that is the UPS store I now have mailing addresses in my most traveled to places. Having several addresses should make it easier for you all. Please contact me before sending out things and I'l let you know where I'll be at that time. Cheers!

The Album:

2008-09-19T12:55:00.000-05:00

I had much to do today. All in the house. I decided to take my itunes off shuffle and listen to full "albums" for the day. My day so far went like this.

Matthew Sweet: Girlfriend
The Clash: London Calling
The Verve: Urban Hymns
U2: All That You Can't Leave Behind
Alice in Chains: Jar of Flies
Beastie Boys: Check Your Head
Screaming Trees: Sweet Oblivion
The Beatles: Revolver (not on itunes..booo)

Ah the memories...

I used to love the experience of finding a new album (started on vinyl), getting it to somewhere I could listen to it, unwrapping it and listening to it start to finish while I read the cover notes, end, repeat. Albums tell a story and follow a progression. The album producers understand this. Much like seeing a live show of your favorite band...the first song always kicks butt, then the middle balances out a bit then the end leaves you wanting more. The wedding album experience is much like this.

In this day of itunes and shuffles and 99 cent singles I miss the album experience. It's almost like back in the Motown days where a singer or group was known for their singles. They would often bunch all of these acts together in concert because they couldn't float the bill themselves. Sure there were 45s and cassingles and such, but the reason behind a single was to make you want to buy the album.

Certain acts still stick to the album code. The Foo Fighters, U2, Weezer, Beastie Boys, in fact, most of your bands that started pre-ipod still have it going on. I encourage you to give their latest release a listen through start to finish or dust off one of your favorite CD's, put it in and listen to the entire thing, not on random, but in the order it was intended to be listened to by the artist. A musical journey. So magical.

This experience also implies to the story of your wedding day. Look at one of your wedding photographs by itself. The one you selected to be framed on mantle or desk or the one you use as you desktop on your computer. Sure it takes you back to that time, but there's so much more built around that moment.

Pull out your wedding album or view your slideshow again. Can you feel the story? Does it share the same emotional experience of your day? Do you feel yourself in the middle of it all over again? Did you get choked up? This is exactly the way it's supposed to be. At least for documentary style photography. We are story tellers. It's so much more than a single moment being captured in time.

I LOVE when a client allows me to pick the selections that will fill their album. As the "producer" I know what I'm going for in creating your album experience. From the powerful "first selection" to the "fluffier" middle, to the "leave em' wanting more last image" your story couldn't be told in a better way. To live it, to feel it all over again each time, this is my intention as an artist.

Give albums a chance again. Don't be so quick to not purchase one in order to save money. By the whole CD. Remember the experience intended for you by the artist. The way the story of your day should be told. One you can enjoy time and time again.

Are you one of my client-friends saying "Now, I wish I had an wedding album?" Contact me. I'll design one for you free of charge. No purchase necessary. If you love it, we'll talk price later.

Happy Belated Birthday:

2008-09-18T10:30:00.000-05:00

I'm hoping since this is her first she won't get too mad at me. Marcella Hope was born 09/08/08 at 8:44PM. I have yet to meet her, but can't wait. Congrats to her proud parents Michelle and Kevin. All three are doing wonderfully.

Alana and her family!

2008-09-16T08:11:00.000-05:00

While in NC for a few weddings the weekend of 08-08-08, the weather was absolutely unbelievable. In between weddings I met my friend Alan and his lovely family at Sycamore Flats near Brevard NC in the Pisgah Forest for some much needed catching up. Alan and I worked at The Inn On Biltmore Estate as part of the opening team on 3rd shift. We've since moved on and hadn't gotten together in quite a while. It couldn't have been a more relaxing afternoon. I had the pleasure of meeting their daughter Alana for the first time. WHAT A CUTIE!!! Alana took some time to warm up but she was flirting away in no time. Did I mention WHAT A CUTIE? It was fun catching up with you Alan. I'm extremely happy for you and Noni.

Alan gave me permission to post the slideshow for you all to see. I always like to ask when it pertains to children and families.

Click here to see their slideshow!

at least kiss me first:

2008-09-14T08:38:00.000-05:00

paid $4.71 a gallon for gas yesterday in NC. i hate gas and everything it about.

Photographs:

2008-09-11T08:11:00.000-05:00

I wanted to repost this last year but I was in a difficult time in my life. On September 11, 2007 my wife Suzanne and I separated. This was a crazy thing and I was unsure of what to do and what/how to tell you all since I'm in the business of weddings and love and happiness and such. I guess you can say I didn't want to be a downer. I wanted to share in your happiness regardless of what I was going through. I decided to phase out talking about that part of my life on here. I'm over that now.

I've had conversations recently about this post and whatever had happened to it, the way it made people feel and what they thought about and did after reading it. I never deleted it. It was here the whole time. You just had to dig.

As I blog on a more consistent basis and realize many of you are now friends and frequent readers, I feel like I can share it again.

I love this post and the joy it brought me in such a time of sadness. Now, a year after another one of the saddest day's in my life I feel like I can share it again. On this painful yet important anniversary, ladies and gentleman....I re-present to you my unedited Sept 11, 2006 post....

I'm so grateful that almost every day of my life involves capturing a moment in time that someone can forever remember, the happiness, the laughter, even the tears...tears of joy or the smallest of detail sometimes overlooked.

As I sit here editing my latest wedding I'm listening to Howard Stern's rebroadcast from September 11, 2001 on Sirius Radio. It's overwhelming yet I'm riveted. It's also some of the best broadcasting I've ever heard.

I remember that day 5 years ago. I recently moved my future(current)wife from NJ from NC. I had already been here 4 years. I turned on the TV that morning and there it was. We were in shock. We were watching something so familiar to us being destroyed in front of our eyes. We we're RIVETED.

Everyday, while working in NYC, I drove passed WTC. When I worked in Hoboken, NJ at night I drove home each night and as I entered the NJ turnpike I had such a beautifully framed shot of lower Manhattan. The shot was in clear view of The Towers, almost like it was created on purpose. Above the towers was part of the overpass (exit 14c), below it was the median. At night the lights from The Towers shined through perfectly. Above the overpass created the perfect black mat, the median, also blackened with nightfall completed the edge on the bottom. My friend and Jack and I drove by almost every weekend and in a strange instance once said, "Isn't...that...amazing....!" at the same time. Completely blurted out in unison from silence. Man made, indescribable beauty.

On September 11, 2001 so many things went through my mind. Who, what, when, where, why, all in my mind at once, piling on top of one another like the towers eventually did. Man made, indescribable destruction.

I wanted so bad to do something. Like many others I felt totally helpless. I immediately wanted to go home and gather my family together in one room and just group hug while we tell each other all of the things we just didn't day over the years. I wanted to do it for all of those people who obviously would never have the chance to do that again.

When I went to NJ to move my wife Suzanne down we decided to have a NYC date for old time sake. Suzanne and I had 10+ years of friendship that brought us to NYC many, many times. We would visit our favorite record stores (yeah records!), coffee shops, bars, club, shops and all of the glory that is NYC. On our date we took the ferry from Jersey City to World Trade Center. From across the river we gazed from the front of the ferry as we felt the wind in our faces. It was a beautiful day. I remember vividly as I looked at the beauty of WTC, to my best friend and future wife's eyes and the look of contentment on her face. She really truly has the most beautiful eyes and they were all lit up with vision of our wonderful future that would begin with our trek to NC tomorrow. For now it's all about NYC. The NYC we love.

I'm feeling that feeling I felt 5 years ago. My stomach is burning, my eyes watering. I sense a good cry coming on soon. This is a good thing to do right now. Words. More words.

We got off the ferry right at WTC to which we both decided a bathroom break was our first most priority. Boat rides seem to do that to us. We ran in and out of just about every building looking for a public restroom. God love NYC, but it's not cut out for those needing a restroom. We finally went into the food court at WTC at one of the towers. We found a restroom and stopped at Starbucks for a coffee. Starbucks was a treat then, since they weren't all over Asheville NC yet.

I loved standing at the bottom of The Twin Towers and looking straight up at them. The tops of the buildings disappeared into the clouds. Amazing. We did this as we left World Trade Center.

It was July 2001. We went about the rest of our day and talked about how we would have to come home to visit often. We love NYC, and will miss it greatly. I didn't bring my camera that day. I just wanted to take it all in with Suzanne instead of stopping every 2 seconds to snap off a few shots of something. To me that must be annoying to be in a relationship with a constant looker. Even more annoying most be that fact that I stop every 2 seconds to capture a moment forever. Or maybe it isn't?

All of the photographs I have of the Twin Towers are in my head. Although I can totally picture them perfectly, they’re only in my mind. I'm kind of bummed that I don't have a photograph of the towers standing that I took. It's one of those things that were just so common to me I never stopped to take a picture of it. I'd rather photograph the garbage can in front of WTC then WTC itself. Not anymore. Now I shoot constantly. Every time I press the shutter I say to myself "this-will-never-happen-again". It’s so true.

We've been back since they fell. It was harder than I could ever imagine. I didn't want to go back. I didn't want to be a tourist. Instead we went to pay tribute. This time I took pictures. I have had people offer to purchase my photos from Ground Zero. I will never sell them. I look forward to the day where something else will stand in their place.
Click for Ground Zero Images

I could probably go on forever on this post. I hope it wasn't too long. I'm glad I have a place like this to share such a thing. Thank you for reading.

I end with this...get a camera, take pictures, take pictures often of all things familiar and unfamiliar. Shoot grass in your backyard, a funky collection of something on a table top or your partner, child or loved one sitting across from you at the table. Don't be afraid to turn the camera on yourself once in a while, even if you have to do that reach your arm out and lean back to get in the frame yourself. See if there's a timer. Even if you feel you aren't good enough to take pictures you are wrong. Your photographs aren't just about what the photo looks like, but what memories you have of the exact fraction of a second you thought enough to push that button. You won't be sorry. Have fun. Cherish the moments forever.

9-11-2001: We will never forget.

I would also like to wish my beautiful little niece a very Happy 4th Birthday. Courtney was born September 11, 2002. I can't help but think she was sent here to bring a little sunshine to something so dark. I've always enjoyed dramatic contrast and boy do I have it today.

Erin & Jeff are married!

2008-09-09T08:11:00.000-05:00

Erin and Jeff were married 08-10-08 in Asheville NC at the beautifully scenic Crest Center Pavilion. The sunset that evening...WOW! Makes me miss the mountains dearly.

Erin is a certified quote-master general. She included the following on a thank you note she wrote me:

"Unselfish and noble actions are the most radiant pages in the biography of souls." ~David Thomas

I love it. It was my pleasure and you are welcome.

Thanks again to Ian for helping me out that day as a stand in voice and rockin some shots throughout the day.

Click here to see their slideshow!

Charlotte After Wedding Bridals!

2008-09-08T08:11:00.000-05:00

You may remember Charlotte (and Justin) back when I talked about their fun engagement session we shot in Little Rock. Well, they're married now and Charlotte called me to do some relaxed bridal portraits now that the craziness is over. I didn't get to shoot their wedding but still got to see Charlotte as a beautiful bride! We spent some time at Burns Park and downtown North Little Rock and I'm so pleased with the shots! We even got a hold of some of Justin's prized possessions for a few special shots for him. Don't worry Justin, I'll let you buy me a beer when I see you. Enjoy!

Click here to see Charlotte's slideshow!

Happy Labor Day:

2008-09-01T08:11:00.000-05:00

I'm off to a wedding today but I hope you'll have a hot dog and a burger for me. Happy Labor Day everybody. Be safe. Drive human-like.

Praying for Them:

2008-08-31T23:45:00.000-05:00

My prayers are with the people on the gulf coast bracing for Gustav. Please let this hurricane putter out. If I were closer to LA I'd take some people in. I can't imagine any more damage.

National Hurricane Center.

Ladies and gentlemen...Jenna & Brock:

2008-08-31T16:16:00.000-05:00

You may remember the teaser I posted a little bit back for my 08-08-08 couple Jenna & Brock. They were married at Biltmore Estate on what had to be one of the most gorgeous days EVER. Not only was the weather and scenery amazing, but they had some of the best wedding vendors I know. The day moved along perfectly thanks to Jennifer and Nicole of Verge Events. The ceremony was performed on the what seemed like the tip of the mountain by the always heartfelt Rev. Tim Lolley of Blue Mountain Weddings. After the nuptials we danced the day away to the sounds of Dylan Skidmore of Blazin Sounds Entertainment. If perculating were an Olympic sport, Brock and Jenna would get the gold. Check them out in the slideshow. Dylan also provided some amazing special effect lighting for the reception. Stars on the ceiling and a glowing floating cake added a very cool touch to the ambience.

It just so happens that this wedding was all StudioWed vendors. The first of it's kind and hopefully of many. I cannot express enough what a pleasure the whole team was. We are thinking of going out as "The Dream Team" in the future. Anyone want to book the whole package? We can help you out.

Back to the day.

What a day! I was joined by my new left hand man Ian. Ian provided the voice for me for the day and was a huge help in calling out directions as I told them to him in my whisper language. He also took some awesome shots. Thanks Ian.

From the first glance we staged before the ceremony (everyone should do this!) to the photos around the Estate, to the ceremony, reception and trail ride after the day was top notch! Gorgeously elegant yet intimate and friendly.

Jenna, Brock and family are from DE. I had the pleasure of shooting a second wedding for them in DE last night. I'll post on that soon.

It was a pleasure getting to know your friends and families Jenna & Brock. Thanks so much for having me. You are a wonderful couple. I wish you a lifetime of love, laughter health and happiness. Cheers!

Click here to see their slideshow!

Me with half of the dream team. Nicole from Verge Events, Dylan and Xochilt Skidmore of Blazin Sounds Entertainment.

Tamina as Vanna:

2008-08-23T20:11:00.000-05:00

Tamina and her lovely Mom Roxanne were in town for a wedding. I was so happy to actually be in town! We had a great dinner at Fado' Irish Pub then headed back to the studio so Tamina could pose near the big print of her and Ben on the wall. I think it's almost life size! (sorry Tamina...little joke) Tamina and Ben's wedding was almost a year ago already. I'm so happy we've kept in touch. Can't wait to see you guys again soon. We're going to really trash that dress...sorry Mom and Dad. Don't look. Thanks for stopping by. It was a joy seeing you both.

Can I buy a vowel?

one big thing:

2008-08-22T15:49:00.000-05:00

I went to Michael's today and bought a frame. My receipt pretty much should have been a scroll. Unfortunately they did not offer me a ribbon for my scroll. I'm afraid if I bought a ribbon my receipt would be twice a long. What am I supposed to do with that thing? My wallet doesn't fold up that big. Look at that thing! The same thing happened to me last week when I bought one CD at Best Buy. What's the deal? Two coupons and a survey? How about an option to participate? I'd rather not. I'm sure the paper is recyclable but this is ridiculous. I'm going to have to get a bigger receipt box.

Sneak Peek: Jenna and Brock 08-08-08

2008-08-18T08:03:00.000-05:00

Jenna & Brock were married 08-08-08 on Biltmore Estate in Asheville NC. I'm still editing, but I wanted to give you all a sneak peek in the mean while.

Published on-line!

2008-08-16T14:25:00.000-05:00

I was contacted by Schmap about the above photo from my flickr stream. I was asked if they could use it for their 2008 version update. I said yes and they used it. Pretty cool. I'm under the Baltimore Section under Fells Point. If you have some time go play around on Schmap. They have a cool iphone application as well.

Things I like:

2008-08-15T08:11:00.000-05:00

I was at a friend's house once and he made me a "mocha". About 30 mins later I was FLYING! ZIIINNNNGGGG!!! I asked him waht the heck he put in my coffee and I found out he used Ovaltine. It ROCKS!

I just made one! WEEEEEEEEEE.

Shout out to Dylan for sharing his secret.

Slideshows are available for Purchase!

2008-08-14T08:52:00.000-05:00

Did you know those cool little slideshows I do are available as a DVD and/or ipod download? Of course you didn't, I never told you. If you did know this you can ignore what I'm about to share. It won't teach you a thing.

To those of you still reading.....Here's how it works:

So simple....just click that button that looks like a little DVD on the bottom of the slideshow. It'll take you to an order screen and VIOLA! boom. done.

If your slideshow is not showing that cute little DVD button, it's an older slideshow. Just let me know if you want to order and I can update your slideshow.

Maggie and Chris are married!

2008-08-07T08:04:00.000-05:00

Maggie and Chris were married at the beautiful St. Mary of The Mills in Laurel Maryland. The reception followed at the Turf Valley Country Club in Ellicot City MD. The food was delicious, the cake magnificent and this group was READY TO PARTY! They danced and danced and danced to the amazing sounds of Black Tie Boogie. Then they danced some more. Too much fun. Dance-offs, congo lines, rock concert front row mayhem and slow dance romance. They had it all. GREAT TIMES! Thanks so much for having me Maggie and Chris. I had a blast.

Click here to see their slideshow!

18 Days (Recovery):

2008-08-05T07:03:00.000-05:00

I wanted to hop on here and give you a quick update, since some of you have emailed/called asking. Thanks so much! You like me, you really really like me!

The incision is still raised and puffy but hey, it hasn't even been three weeks. My neck is moving great. I can feel tightness in the front around the incision. It's the first time in I don't know how long that I can see the veins in my neck and my adams apple. I forgot I even had those!

My voice.....hmmmm.....not so good but I've got something there. I think I'm learning to talk the best I can with what I have which falls somewhere between batman and godfather on generation kill. I shot some weddings this week and had my friend Chris stand in as my voice since I can't project and after about 30 mins straight, it pretty much goes down to a whisper. Still very windy. Lot's of air going down my throat. My chest gets real heavy by the end of the day. It's still best to communicate via email or text since most of the time a phone call only turns into the other person saying "What?" or "I'm sorry I can't hear you sir." Forget ordering in loud places. I'm so happy the women downstairs in Starbucks knows my drink. I've started to talk to people while I'm out and about. They usually seem curious once I say something. I have an appointment with a speech therapist at the end of the month. We shall see. My energy level is great thanks to my shynthriod. I feel like I'm in high school again. Until the next day. ;) Am I rambling?

Staying strong, staying positive. Thank you all for your ongoing thought, support and prayers. I will get through this. One day I'll know why this happened and it'll all make sense. My wonderful friend Ginny said, "In the end it will all be okay. If it is not okay, then it is not the end." I love that.

I've got some catching up to do from my down time while recovering and not driving. I've got a few weddings to post so check back soon, better yet sign up for email updates in that little box up there in the top right corner. They make it easy for you.

Cheers. I love you all. Mean it.

I do "other photography"

2008-08-04T11:21:00.000-05:00

I'm often asked if I do "other photography". I do photography yes. Not just weddings. I love photography. I have thousands, if not tens of thousands of images. I need to catalog them someday but I'm afraid I would have to quit weddings to do so. Not going to do that.

I'm rarely without camera. I must be an annoying person to hang with because my brain always thinks in photos. I'll be driving or walking and suddenly, "There's a photo!, OH there's another one....Oh LOOK another." Some people seem fascinated but others just shake their head and mumble something to themselves.

Last week without voice, I spotted a photo while riding in the back seat of Dad's car. He and my sister were holding a conversation in the front seat and well, I can't speak. I started waving and bouncing up and down and tapping them on the shoulder. They pulled over, I jumped out, ran off and snapped a few very quick shots then came back to the car signaling the "OK" sign with my hand so we could go. They shook their heads in amazement. I'll show you that one soon.

I've pulled over in bad places, climbed up on things, not pulled over at all, stopped mid-conversation after a polite"can you hold on a sec?" and I've started snapping away while talking to someone. Usually it's something I notice on them, a smile line, look in their eye, their mouth forming a particular letter, a smile, a glimpse, some amazingly sexy light or whatever. And yes. Light IS sexy.

I've challenged myself to photograph the alphabet (not just letters, things that look like letters), something that reminds me of my Mom, take 100 pictures in a bathroom. I keeping my creative juices flowing constantly. I'm feeding my addiction.

Creativity is one of my favorite drugs and I am a junkie.

I've decided to share some of my "other photography" here.

I call this one "Arkansas drive-by" I was on my way back from a very special person's home one morning and I noticed the light passing through the trees in this patch of forest that I absolutely love to look at. Heck yes it was sexy. Don't you agree?

I looked in my rearview to see the bumper of a big Ford truck about 7 inches from my bumper so, I didn't think suddenly pulling over was a great idea. I had to get the shot. It was driving me nuts. I grabbed my camera from the seat next to me. With one hand on the wheel, I fumbled with the lens cap, made a few adjustments, put the camera up too the window at eye level (without looking) and held down the shutter. I fired about 7 or 8 shots. I especially like this one. I told the story of that moment perfectly for me.

Please comment. I enjoy your feedback.

Day 14 Recovery:

2008-07-30T17:45:00.000-05:00

Check it out! I can move my neck! Range of motion is really great to the left. To the rights a bit weird but way better than it was pre-surgery. I don't think I've moved this far in a long time. I noticed it today while driving. I turned to look before moving over and WOW! I could almost see behind me. So that's the way it works! Up is a bit tight around the incision once I go up too much. Down is good. Further than pre-surgery but still a bit strange at a certain point. Still some swelling at the wound.

The voice. No voice. It's becoming a reality more and more everyday that I need to do things really different. I know it'll come back at some point, but I can't just sit around and wait for that to happen. I run a business alone and well....there you go. I've read your comments and emails offering help. Thanks so much. I'm considering how it'll all work and I'll be in touch. Of course it'll be an email.

Please email or text me if you are trying to reach me. You can leave a message but please leave a way for me to return your call electronically if you do. I cannot talk on the phone. It's a terrible strain. I don't think straining helps.

I'm having Kristie call my Dr's tomorrow. I was supposed to hear from them but have not yet. I'd like to at least get the ball rolling on some therapy ASAP. I have a feeling I'm going to be prescribed total silence for a few weeks. I'm trying to gear up for that by only talking when a complete necessity. It takes a lot out of me because I have to use such much wind to get my words out.

If any of you have any ideas please share. I just bought a small dry erase board to carry around. Trying to order food at loud places is pretty a no go. On a funny note I forgot and pulled up to a drive thru the other day. They asked if they could help and I spoke...if that's what you call it. After an attempt with no luck I drove away and went inside. No more drive through for some time.

I get tired fast. My doctor told me the thyroid hormone will take a few weeks for me to feel. Today I felt like a watch with no battery. I'm going to take the rest of the week to rest. I have two weddings this weekend. I'm a bit concerned. My breathing is off so my chest gets heavy by mid day. I do have a fill in voice for this weekend. Thanks Chris for offering.

I'm in NJ with Dad so he can help me out a bit. I'll be heading back to MD Thursday evening I think.

Again thanks everybody. As I get my head around this I'll be in touch to let you know where you can chip in.

DAY 8 Recovery:

2008-07-26T11:49:00.000-05:00

Had my follow-up with the surgeon on Friday. The stitches are out! Cool huh? Looks like a big smiley face on my neck. This will remind me for the rest of my life to smile. The areas around the incision are a bit sensitive. My energy comes in bursts but I've always been used to that. Once my thyroid hormone kicks in I'll be zinging like I'm 14 again! The soreness is letting off. I can sleep on my side now. Man did I miss that. Sleeping on my back made me feel like I'm in my own funeral for some reason. Yeah I'm weird like that. Oh yeah the follow-up.

I'm a lucky man. There was a small percentage of a chance that my vocal chords would be affected in this surgery. Of course with the way doctors make you feel like, it's just a small chance you have nothing to worry about, you forget there IS a chance.

Well it has happened to me. After yet another scope yesterday it is confirmed. The right side vocal chord is stuck open. Not moving. Paralyzed. What does this mean?

It means my voice will not return for some time. It means I have to see an ear,nose and throat doctor to see how bad it is and it means i'll have to start speech therapy to get it back to some sort of normal and hopefully pretty darn close to back to normal. I may sound just like this for quite a bit. I was told up to 6 months yesterday.

It's been hard not talking for more than a few minutes at a time this week. I like to talk. I like to laugh. Laughing is weird too. I like to sing, Definitely can't do that. I can whistle though! I like to make funny voices. I have one but that's the only one I'll be doing for a while. Everything is very "windy". Since my vocal chord is open it's the opposite of normal speaking. When you speak your throat is closed and your vocal chords vibrate. I still get vibration from the left side but the right side allows much air down my throat. I laugh with wind going in, Weird huh?

Sooooo. I need to think creatively. My business requires a large amount of talking. I'm thankful to God that I mostly make a living with with my eyes and hands. Those still work really well. At this point in my life, when I was just about tired of email and texting I'm going to count those as blessings as well.

I'll need to consider some sort of a sales person or office assistant that can speak for me on the phone or during consultations when needed. I also need to consider an assistant voice on location when shooting. My style requires direction, often speaking loudly or coaching from afar. I've reached out to my friends in business and in my personal life to get me through these next few weeks. I've got weddings 8/2, 8/2, 8/8 and 8/10. I've got those covered to have an assistant voice. I can talk to you if your near me. Come to think of it I sort of sound like Batman. Growling under my breath sort of. "YOU DON'T WANT TO DO THAT!"

That sounds cool.

I have to adjust my diet which I've been wanting to do anyway. I have to eat slowly and carefully. I've acquired some pretty harsh acid reflux since my throat is always open now. I'm on pills for it, but it's quite heavy at times. I can't clear my throat so well so it's super-exciting when it happens. I just need to remember to stay calm, swallow when I can and breath through my nose. It helps. I need to consider foods that are calm on my stomach and easy to chew and digest. Amongst things of no-no status are, chocolate, gum, hard candy, fatty or fried foods, whole milk, animal or vegetable oils, creamed foods, fast food, cold cuts, sausage, bacon, ice cream, orange juice, citrus, tomato sauces and spicy food. WOW! Am I going to be a blast at parties or what? I hope cliff bars still work. I rely on those at weddings.

Oh yeah.....COFFEE and TEA!!!! Hmmm. I have a problem here. I mean a challenge and opportunity. :)

I also need to sleep with my head slightly elevated. I pretty much am a two pillow type of guy anyway. I think I'm well enough covered there.

Anyway. I'm OK. It will be OK. I'm an extremely optimistic person and I've suffered quite a few hardships. I've learned to face challenges always open minded. With each challenge comes opportunity.

I'm back home by myself now. I'm taking some time to rest, reflect and get some office tasks done. New pricing catalog and best of slideshow are coming soon!

Thanks again everyone. Your thoughts, prayer and kind words have been essential in my recovery. I appreciate each and every one of you. Thanks, thanks and thanks.

If anyone knows of someone looking to learn a bit about the business or has some free time on their hands to help out please let me know.

Yours in temporary silence,

Michael

Tim and Kim said I do!

2008-07-22T22:28:00.000-05:00

Tim and Kim said I DO! at the adorable Dorsey Chapel, Glenn Dale MD. The entire day was so unique and intimate, the chapel was PERFECT! Kim's dress was a vintage dress she ordered on-line from Australia (I think) The detail in the lace was unbelievable. We had some on and off rain but that didn't get us down! We headed down to the Inner Harbor in Baltimore for some fun shots, with and without umbrella.

After spending some two on one time we headed over to the Brass Elephant for a wonderful reception style dinner amongst Tim & Kim's closest friends and family. What a gorgeous place.

Tim & Kim, you two were so much fun. I had a great time and look forward to seeing you both again in the future.

Click here to see their wedding slideshow.

We did a last minute engagement session a few days before the wedding that I'll be posting soon.

DAY 6 (recovery):

2008-07-22T11:00:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow will be a week. My live-in nurse had to go home on Sunday so I had my Dad come and get me and bring me to PA so I would be around some people in case I need anything. I still can't talk (barely), drive or lift. Funny how many things involve one of those. My flexibility in my neck and shoulders is coming back although by mid-day I'm about spent. Tylenol to the rescue after that. I'm still reminding myself that I had a pretty major surgery less then a week ago and be patient with my recovery. Watching movies, catching up on some office-ish tasks, reading and relaxing. My next wedding in not until 8/1/08 so I'm planning on being in full swing by then.

I have my 1st follow-up visit on Friday at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore with Dr Zeiger. Dad will be playing chauffeur for that one as well. Dad is rocking with helping me out. He likes to talk a lot though. Did I mention he likes to talk A LOT? Well if not, my Dad likes to TALK A-LOOOOOOOTTTTT! I hope he's getting used to me not answering. I owe him big time after this. I offered him free wedding photography if he ever decides to marry again. I think this is generous of me don't you?

Funny story....as I'm walking into the operating room one of the Doctors said "So, you're a wedding photographer?"
"Yes I am!" I said while climbing onto the strange cross-like surgery table.
"Well I'm engaged to be married!" he said as I lie back and someone slips the very lovely hair net/bonnet over my head.
"Congratulations!" I said, " I'd offer you a card, but I'm well.....naked! I couldn't find a place to put them that wouldn't feel strange"
We all laughed as they strapped me down and readied the first dose of anesthesia. I told him to google me. He said he would. That would be a pretty cool thing to shoot the wedding of one of my surgeons. I look forward to hearing from him.

Nothing like laughing real good before you fall asleep.

PROPS: I need to thank Kristie for doing such an amazing job. Your strength both beforehand and afterwards was never unnoticed. You are an amazingly kind and caring women and I love you for it.

Dad...you don't even know how to use the internet, but I'll thank you here anyway. I appreciate you being there/here for me. You rock.

To all of you..for your continued outpourings of prayer,support and well wishes. Thanks! Seriously. I've never felt so thought about.

To the team of Doctors and nurses at Johns Hopkins that got me through. THANK YOU! I have never met a more kind group of medical professionals. Everyone I came in contact with was wonderful. And the room.....WOW! The Marburg Pavilion was amazing. They must have known of my hospitality background because this place is pretty much a fine medical hotel. Concierge and all. They really do make you feel like you are the only person there.

I'm ALIVE!

2008-07-18T07:33:00.000-05:00

I'm back home after being in the hospital overnight after surgery. They did a total thyroidectomy. I'm REALLY stiff, tired and have a heck of a sore throat but other that that I'm feeling OK. My Dr. told me they had a difficult time getting the breathing tube in. That makes sense since they told me the goiter on my thyroid was the size of a baseball and went all they way down past my collar bone and was apparently squashing everything. That is amazing to me. My scar is going to be something to talk about! We all love stories right? I've decided to tell people I got a head transplant.

Thank you all for the kind wishes. I got tons of facebook messages, texts and emails. I feel blessed to have so many people caring about me. I hope to talk to you ASAP. Right now I sound a bit like grover so I'm going to rest my voice.

Thanks again. I appreciate your thoughts and prayers.

Total Thyroidectomy:

2008-07-15T01:24:00.000-05:00

WED 7/16/08 is the day. Although it is benign, I'm having a total thyroidectomy per my Doctor's recommendation. I'm having it done at John Hopkins in Baltimore, which is one of the best in the nation, so I'm sure I'm in good hands. I'll have a cool new scar and I'll be on thyroid hormone for the rest of my life but I look forward to feeling better. REAL energy perhaps? I may be hyper soon guys. Let me know if I'm annoying. (more than usual)
I'll be in the hospital overnight. Should be home by Thursday before lunch.

I'll update you all ASAP.

With that being said, I'll be offline and out of commission for a bit. Once I'm feeling better I'll answer all of your emails and phone messages. I really don't want to conduct business while I'm looped on pain meds, so please be patient. You'll hear from me as soon as I'm able.

Thanks for your thoughts and prayers. Love you all...mean it!

Michelle's Belly!

2008-07-05T00:04:00.000-05:00

My good friend's Michelle and Kevin are expecting. Kevin didn't want in the photos but Simba the cat did. MIchelle you look wonderful! I'm so excited for you both. Keep me posted!!

Click here to see her slideshow.

Happy Fourth of July!

2008-07-04T17:38:00.001-05:00

Happy Fourth of July!
Originally uploaded by Rachael and Jess (AKA Fatherhood is fun)

I'm happy to be relaxing on this Holiday. I'm catching up on some things I had hanging. I have a craving for hotdogs and hamburgers though. I may go hit up the neighbors! Have a wonderful and safe holiday. Eat a hotdog for me! (relish and mustard please, ah heck through on some raw onion I'm not kissing anyone today)

Cheers!

Jill and Alex tie the knot!

2008-07-04T15:43:00.000-05:00

Jill and Alex started off the weekend's festivities with an amazing mountain top gathering at the former home-site of Alex's parents. Literally! The house is no longer there so they gathered on the house pad that still is, chimney and all. Such an amazing view and a GORGEOUS night.

Saturday the theme continued in the view dept. Jill and Alex chose Symmes Chapel aka Pretty Place to tie the knot. This place couldn't have been a more perfect place for them. Jill and Alex met as camp counselors at Camp Greenville, the campground Pretty Place is located on. How cool is that? The chapel sits on the mountain top just over the NC border in SC. The view is totally spectacular. Breathtaking. Wow.

After the I do's we snapped some quick family portraits then headed out to various locations around camp before heading along Highway 280 for some cool shots! Jill and Alex planned plenty of time in between since they wanted to do so many fun things and we were able to get to just about all of them. First stop, Dolly's Ice Cream. This was a must stop for Jill and I'm glad we did. Not only was it a totally cool place for some great shots, but the ice cream was to die for. I wish i could live off ice cream. Oh yeah, we met Dolly's mother who was enjoying a cone on the porch while we were shooting. She was so sweet and shared some kind words with the couple.

From there we headed down 280 into the Pisgah Forest a bit. We were met with a rainstorm but we managed to snap a few fun shots hanging off of signs and frolicking in the woods.

Once the rain came we headed over to their reception at Echo Mountain Inn. What a nice set-up. Guests and family stayed at the Inn so they had some time to swim, play shuffle board and freshen up before getting their party on. The food...WOW! Country comfort food to the MAX. I'm such a sucker for mac & cheese and that may have been the best I've had ever. Sorry Mom. Let's say you have the best mac & cheese in NJ. Am I off the hook now?

The reception was close and intimate and continued the feel of the entire event. The personality in this classy, southern affair was top notch! I felt like a close friend by the end of the night.

Congratulations Jill and Alex. You were so much fun. A photographers dream to work with. (Can I just be your official photographer from now on?) I look forward to keeping in touch. I will continue to be jealous of your travels. Thanks so much for having me!

Click here to see their slideshow.

Thyroid Nodules:

2008-06-30T22:30:00.000-05:00

I was diagnosed with a group of smaller ones about 3 years ago on my right side. Well they are much bigger now. It's causing me to have to buy dress shirts with an 18 1/2 neck (usually 16-16 1/2) in order to not get a headache. My shirts now fit like a tent. Tie's kill me too. I have limited range of motion in my neck, get hoarse quick, have NO energy, heart races often for no reason, can't sleep, intolerant to cold, fatigue, dry skin, unintentional weight gain despite my constant watching what I eat, facial swelling and a list of others.

I went to a very well respected Dr. at John Hopkins Medical Center in Baltimore. He thinks it's grown 3-5 times it's size. May have moved below my collar bone. It's amazing what your thyroid effects. I'll keep you posted. I'm hoping to get this taken care of ASAP.

Read about it.

UPDATE: Went for blood work and ultrasound today. Waiting to hear from my Doctor with what he sees in the tests.

UPDATE: 6/30/08 It's coming out July 16th. I meet more and more people who have had the same thing. It's amazing. Why do they still make thyroids? ha. this week a bunch of pokes and prods. same thing next week. then surgery then a few weeks to recover. wow. i'm going to take a few weeks off. i might not make it through that! thank you all for your kinds thoughts.

I'll keep you posted. Thanks for your well wishes.

Do you Facebook?

2008-06-27T08:23:00.000-05:00

We'll then come on over and say hello!

Heather & Scott said I do:

2008-06-26T11:31:00.000-05:00

Heather and Scott were married on a GORGEOUS day at Lake Eden in Western NC. You may remember these two love birds from their e-session we did a while back. We started the day with some getting ready shots of Heather and then set up a "first look" between Heather & Scott at the house where Heather was getting ready. I love when couples decide to do this. It's such an intimate moment. No nervousness of EVERYBODY looking and the whole walking down the aisle about to get married thing. It also gives us time to play before hand and really get some great shots without the pressure of a close time-frame. After the first look we headed over to Inn on Biltmore Estate for a few quick shots. Then it was off to Montreat where we shot their e-session for a few official Bride & Groom shots. It's always fun where we get to parade around for a bit and have everyone congratulate the Bride & Groom along the way.

A gorgeous lakeside ceremony was led by the always wonderful Rev.Tim Lolley. After the I dos Heather & Scott's friends and family wandered to the other side of the lake for the reception. What a gorgeous southern affair. No detail went untouched thanks to Nicole of Verge Events. Blossums at Biltmore Park worked their magic on the florals. Cakes by Jane did the cake.....yum!

Click here to see their slideshow!

Dana & Andres:

2008-06-25T12:52:00.001-05:00

Dana and Andres were married in Long Island City NY at The Foundry. What a cool place! This was one of the most original weddings I've ever attended. Completely unique! From their vows including a promise to watch every Will Ferrell movie, to the Dino the ring bearer dog, to the urban location, to an impromptu reunion of Andres's band "Love in Reverse" during the reception.......EXTREMELY cool! Before the reunion friends and family danced to the AMAZING sounds of Dana and Andres's friends Big Baby Ernie who for never really doing weddings, NAILED IT! This party rocked! Congratulations to you both and Dino too. It was a pleasure being a part of your day.

Click here to see their slideshow.

Do you twitter?:

2008-06-24T17:46:00.000-05:00

Follow me, I'll follow you...

Twitter on!

birthday non-brag bragging:

2008-06-24T17:03:00.000-05:00

I wasn't going to brag on my birthday this year but now I must. My sweetie got me the coolest gift on earth.

HOLGA BABY! and red no less!!! I was doing the happy dance while opening it. I'm glad she doesn't know how to work my camera.

SO SEXY!!! Consider it bragged!

RIP George:

2008-06-23T12:50:00.000-05:00

George Carlin 1937-2008

Thanks for making me laugh so hard my sides hurt George.

"When cheese gets it's picture taken, what does it say?"~George Carlin

Heather & Craig:

2008-06-17T11:42:00.000-05:00

Heather and Craig were married during a quaint little ceremony at Crest Pavilion in Asheville NC. The details showed their love for the mountains perfectly. Everyone was treated to a gorgeous sunset as they danced into the evening. Thanks for having me Heather & Craig, your wedding was simply wonderful. I wish you a life of love and laughter.

Click here to see their slideshow.

Waiting for Ben:

2008-06-12T09:31:00.000-05:00

My good friend Owen is going to be a big brother. A little while ago (sorry for the post delay!) I had the pleasure of visiting with Owen so he could show me his Mama's bump. Of course it was reason to break out the camera. I'm so happy for you all. I hope your new home is coming along nicely! Looking forward to meeting Ben! Owen is going to be a great big brother.

Click here to see their slideshow!

memorial day:

2008-05-26T09:04:00.000-05:00

take a moment to think about all of the men and women who have died for our freedom. thank you brave soldiers.

in honor of them have a safe and happy memorial day.

Rachel & Anthony:

2008-05-15T08:49:00.000-05:00

Rachel and Anthony were married on an incredible piece of land owned by the groom's family. The back of the property backs up to the Chesapeake but unfortunately it was to far to travel for shots with our tight schedule. Rachel looked stunning in her vintage look. (We must shoot again girl!) The menacing clouds throughout the day stayed just that. The day/evening went off without a drop until the very end. Thanks guys! Your party was a blast! Check out those dance floor shots!!

Click here to see their slideshow.

American Idol Spoiler:

2008-05-14T21:37:00.000-05:00

David is gong to win.

Happy Mom's Day:

2008-05-11T13:54:00.000-05:00

First let me send a shout out to my Mom. Have a wonderful day Mom. Thank you for having me, raising me and putting up with all of my crap. I love you.

(Don't worry I still called her and sent her flowers.)

Secondly, a Happy Mother's Day to the rest of you Mom's out there. I have the utmost respect for you all.

Michelle and Dave and one cool shooting partner:

2008-05-09T22:57:00.000-05:00

I had the opportunity to head to Cape May NJ to shoot Michelle and Dave's wedding with the rockstar photog to the stars Tania Lezak. What a perfect day for an amazing spring time wedding. I grew up in NJ and I've been looking for the opportunity to shoot a wedding there since starting my business. Thanks to Michelle and Dave for having the wedding and Tania for having me along. My dreams have now come true thanks to you all. Tania, I CANNOT WAIT to work with you again. You were so much fun. Your creativity and great attitude are inspiring to me. Dave and Michelle, you two are an awesomely lovely couple. Cheers to you two!

Check out Tania's post for them here. She can fill you in on all of the juicy details. The what, whens and wheres if you will.

I started my day with the guys.

Check the my slideshow of my favs from the day. Holy cow I shot a bunch! This is narrowed waaaaay down!

Things I like:

2008-05-09T19:15:00.000-05:00

Elvis Costello is absolutely one of my all-time favorite recording artists. Anyone notice the song on my site? I have yet to see him live! Last year I had tickets and because of the traffic to get in I missed him opening for Bob Dylan. He's coming around with The Police so I'm on a mad search for tickets and a date when I can go see. He's back with the Impostors for this tour so I couldn't be any more psyched.

I was extremely excited to see a new album on itunes today while browsing! Instant download. Listened to it twice already and WOW! He's taken me back to that classic sound I'm so fond of. I MUST SEE THIS TOUR!!

WOW:

2008-05-03T10:33:00.000-05:00

I love to escape to a good comic book movie whenever I have the chance. Last night I managed to find a seat in the 9PM Ironman showing. What a GREAT movie. Jon Favreau has come a long way since Swingers (one of my favorites! ) I couldn't even imagine directing something like this. Robert Downey Jr was a blast! What a ride...go check it out. No spoilers here.

Things I like:

2008-05-02T11:00:00.000-05:00

Even though I live over a Starbucks, I often walk across the street to Dunkin! I'm a junkie. It's a Jersey thing I think. When I lived in NC for 10 years there were none. I'm making up for that now. Yeah I know, I had the beans, there's just something to the perfection of ordering a "Large just cream" and having it handed to you just so. Yum. Now I need to go get one.

Jon & Jeff:

2008-05-01T17:49:00.000-05:00

I travelled to NC to photograph the wedding of my wonderful friends Jon & Jeff. It was an honor and a privilege to be a part of their beautiful day. The wedding and reception took place at The Homewood in Asheville NC. Such a wonderful place for an amazing couple to celebrate! Jeff and I worked together back when I had my "real job." Jon used to cut my hair.* The rest is history. Every detail of the wedding was GORGEOUS! Jon and Jeff, thanks so much for including me in on your most special of days. I wish you a lifetime of love, health and happiness. I love you both! See you soon.

Click here to see their slideshow.

P.S. Thanks so much for the gas card! I think I might get two fill-ups on that one!

*Crazy fact: my last 3 hair stylists have all been named "John". Only one spells it as cool as this Jon!

StudioWed:

2008-04-30T21:30:00.000-05:00

I'm proud to announce being a part of the very first StudioWed in Asheville NC. StudioWed is an exclusive wedding planning gallery/studio that is sure to take the bridal world by storm. A bride can go there and speak to all the vendors she would need under (DJ's, Cakes, Flowers, Invitations, Favors, Photographers, Videographers, ETC) one roof as well as plan her event from start to finish. So cool! I'm honored to be one of the 5 photographers chosen to be featured. What an amazing concept!! What more would you expect from Nicole Riley and Jennifer King? ROCKIN! If you are planning a wedding in the Asheville area, you must check out StudioWed! It's all the rage!

Check out StudioWed's Blog here.

The grand opening was nothing short of A BLAST! A few hundred of the local community stopped in to bring in StudioWed with a bang! Great food, Great Company and a GREAT PARTY! We ate, and drank and partied to the weeee hours thanks to the amazing DJ wizardry of Dylan Skidmore of Blazin Sounds Entertainment! Dylan is also featured in StudioWed so do check him out for your upcoming event. He's the best in the area! This is of course coming from a former DJ....me.

Click here to check out the slideshow!

Kristen & Giff:

2008-04-30T19:04:00.000-05:00

I had the absolute pleasure of photographing the wedding of Kristen and Giff in Washington DC. The lovely couple said their I do's at the Foundry United Methodist Church in DC before their friends and family. We spent some time at the Smithsonian Castle and Monuments before and after the ceremony to get some awesome shots. Giff and Kristen wanted as many as possible in front of The Capital since it means so much to them. They both went to American University and were extremely proud be be getting hitched in DC.

After our snaps we headed over to the reception at Fort McNair Officers' Club. A wonderful reception was had by all.

I had a great time working with you all. I wish you a lifetime of continual happiness, health and love.

Enjoy Japan. Do share your stories some day.

Click here to see their slideshow!

Things I like:

2008-04-29T15:20:00.000-05:00

If Oprah can do it so can I....

Watch and laugh.

Listen and laugh.

Gretchen & Mark:

2008-04-29T13:28:00.000-05:00

I had the pleasure of shooting with Kate Triano once again. (ano squared) This time we went out to DC to spend the day with Gretchen & Mark. Our couple of honor said their vows at Holy Rosary Church in NW DC before heading over to the City Club of Washington at Franklin Square for reception. Kate did most of the main coverage while I had the opportunity to hang with the guys a bit and then look for things out of the ordinary. I love the above shot. We utilized my handy video light for some added dramatic lighting. I love working with Kate we are always trying new things. Yeah, we're nerds. Anyway I wish Gretchen and Mark a life of love an happiness. Cruise over to for more on our day.

Here's a slideshow of some of my favorite shots I took.

Go Kate go!

NOLO by Lumix:

2008-04-29T01:44:00.000-05:00

I finally managed to put together my slideshow from my New Orleans trip. I'm really amazed at how awesome the shots look out of my Lumix. These are unedited. I did however have to go through like 2000 images. It was so nice to not have my big rig with me.

Check it out...hope you like it!

What are you doing Friday?

2008-04-27T21:32:00.000-05:00

I'm such a nerd. I CANNOT wait to see this movie.

If I Could Blush I Would:

2008-04-09T20:09:00.000-05:00

To Whom It May Concern:

I am not writing this letter just to be nice, I am writing it because an amazing photographer named Michael Juiliano captured the memories from one of the most important days in my life. I did not know Michael before we began planning for our wedding, but I am very happy that we chose him to be there. All in all the day was amazing because of course I was marrying the man of my dreams. Our family had come from near and far to join us for the weekend. Everything was set for the big day.

Michael was there to capture every tear, every joke, every moment of excitement, every heart felt moment. We did not know what types of photos we wanted other than the traditional ones with family and our wedding party, but Michael took care of all the rest. He had only spoken to us on the phone and did not know our personalities, but once he started shooting he took pictures of the real us. I have seen other wedding pictures in the past and they are typically all the same…You all stand together, looking at the camera, and posing. We all know what those pictures are and like many others we did want a few of those, but the photos we love to share and look at are the ones of the heart felt toast, dancing, talking to our family, laughing with our friends, all of those little moments that just seem to pass you by.

Weddings go by in the blink of an eye and I honestly could not tell you a lot about the day until we got our photos from Michael. I looked at our pictures and thought… “I remember that, how funny I forgot we did that, and oh my goodness how special.” We were able to remember conversations and all the special moments that we shared with not only each other, but with everyone we loved. Our pictures were so beautiful that we could not even tell that it poured down rain. The funniest part about everything was when we watched our wedding video. As we watched it, we only saw Michael once throughout the video and said to each other.. “Did you see him at all during the wedding?” We still joke to this day that he was our Ninja photographer because the shots that he took of us were so close and we did not see him at all.

What I want to let you know by all of this is that you will not be disappointed at all if you choose Michael as a photographer for your wedding. It is a special day and I will always remember the special time and care that Michael put into his work. He is a truly amazing photographer and now he is an amazing friend of ours. I will always cherish the detail that he went into to make sure our true personalities came through in the photos. Your wedding is an important day with friends, family, and new beginnings. I am just glad that we found a new friend in Michael on our wedding day…Our day of new beginnings. If you ever have any questions please feel free to call me at (removed for privacy) and I would love to share more with you to help your decision for a photographer…The person I will always admire for capturing our new life together.

Sincerely,

Melissa Blankenship

Thank you such much Melissa!

Rockstar Roadtrip:

2008-04-06T13:10:00.000-05:00

I had the pleasure of heading to DC for the Rockstar Roadtrip that my friends Corey McNabb and Amber Holritz were doing. What a cool day. Corey shares his expertise on the wedding photography world and Amber shares her wonderful look into lifestyle baby portraiture. Great stuff! Part of the fun of going to these workshops is meeting other local photographers and checking out what the sponsors are showing. Good perks too! Afterwards we all got together for a fun pub style dinner and hit the town for some drinks and magic tricks by Corey.

If you attend on of his workshops you'll have to ask him to do these. It's not part of the workshop. It may require a few drinks prior. Check out the RockStarRoadtrip blog.

The workshop ends with a mean round or two of Rockband. I was really impressed with Sarah Hodzic skills on the bass. I think I may need to take a few courses.

It was great seeing you again Corey and Amber. Get some sleep!
I stole these photos off Corey and Amber's blogs.