Let me introduce you to Tyler!  Tyler is a great guy who is hard working, loves being outdoors to hunt, and likes playing basketball.  I enjoyed taking Tyler’s senior portrait, because he was great in front of the camera…a natural at posing, which is wonderful for the photographer!  Most of his pictures were taken where he lives…some in his backyard and at lakes nearby.  It is a beautiful area!

When Tyler was asked what is something he’s never done, but someday hopes to do, his answer was, “Get married to a smoking hot girl.” 🙂  I’m glad I knew this before his session, because when I would mention it he’d smile!

Tyler, I know you’re looking forward to grad next spring…enjoy your senior year and God bless you as He leads you in the future!

O-H-I-O!!  The Ohio State University campus was the location of choice for Stephen and Amber’s engagement portraits, because both Stephen and Amber have attended OSU.  The other spot that we used was their favorite pizza place off High Street called Hound Dogs.  I must admit after tasting the pizza I will be returning sometime to introduce the “yummy-ness” to my family!

Let me tell you a little about Stephen and Amber!  They went to school and church together, so they’ve known each other most of their lives.   Stephen and Amber stay busy and love doing things together like—golf, frisbee golf, working out, walks, geocaching, eating out, playing board games, and movies…wow they stay active! 🙂

Stephen is outgoing and energetic, and can make a friend wherever he goes.  Amber says, “I love that Stephen is super talkative and always has something to say.”

Amber is sweet, laid back and has a great sense of humor.  I love how Stephen admires Amber and thinks she’s perfect.  He also shared, “I like how she is willing to do just about anything for me.  Foot rubs, back rubs, head rubs, etc.”

Stephen and Amber are planning a May 25, 2013 wedding.  Congratulations, Stephen and Amber!  Enjoy the next few months of planning!  I’m looking forward to your special day!

Our first stop...Hound Dogs! Delicious pizza!!

Browning Amphitheater, OSU Campus

Mirror Lake, OSU Campus

The Oval, OSU Campus

The Horseshoe, OSU Campus

We hadn't planned to take sunset pictures, but when I saw how absolutely beautiful the sky was this evening we just had to take a few shots!

Michaela…a beautiful person inside and out!  Her friends say that she’s funny—even when she’s not trying to be, and usually the one to come up with the crazy ideas for a fun time!

When I asked Michaela what’s one thing that she’s never done but would love to do someday, she said she’d like to compete in The Amazing Race.  I hope she can do this someday, however, if she doesn’t get a chance to be on the tv show, life tends to be a bit like an amazing race, wouldn’t you agree?!  We don’t know what’s ahead, but we need to follow God’s map (the Bible) and His leading in whatever adventures He has for us.  I think Michaela already understands this, because when I asked her about her plans after graduation she shared, “I plan on going to college and meeting new people and enjoying the change in life.  Whatever I do, I plan on glorifying God through it.”

Michaela, enjoy the amazing race God has ahead for you!  Even through the bumps, turns, and Lord willing smooth roads ahead may you sense God’s hand leading you each step of the way.  Blessings to you!

Ory and Brooke…what a great couple!  I can tell they love each other and would do just about anything for the other, because they braved a super, windy and chilly evening together to take their engagement portraits! 🙂 Seriously, though, just by watching Ory and Brooke look into each other’s eyes you can see they love and respect each other.

The location of choice for their shoot was their homes which are just a few miles apart…a beautiful wooded area at her home and an open pasture at his.  They chose to use these spots because they are unique and special to them, and within this simplicity they wanted their portraits to focus on them and their love!

Ory and Brooke grew up in the same town, started dating in high school, and then headed off to college together.  They enjoy quiet nights in, watching movies, relaxing, and playing games.

When I asked Ory what he loves about Brooke he said, “Everything!”  He went on to explain that he loves her smile, laugh and personality.

Brooke shared that Ory makes her laugh and that he’s kind, compassionate, honest, and a tad bit nerdy. 🙂  She said, “He has the ability to ground me.  I love the feeling of comfort and safety I have with him.”

Ory and Brooke, thanks for letting me spend the evening with you…I’m looking forward to your wedding!  I know it will be beautiful!

One of my favorites. I love the kiss of the sun!

On these recent, beautiful, fall days it’s easy to forget the numerous 90 degree days we experienced this summer.  Remember?  Day after day of the heat?!   Jeremy and Jen’s wedding fell on one of those 90 plus degree days with the sun shining brightly, and although it was a scorcher, their day was beautiful from start to finish!

When I look back at Jeremy and Jen’s wedding I think the thing I’ll remember most was the beauty of their ceremony.  The service was such a true worship to the Lord and a testimony of God’s grace and work in their lives.  Although I was working during the ceremony, I could sense the sweet spirit!  I know that Jeremy and Jen would both say that their wedding day and their marriage is not about themselves, but about serving the Lord and living their lives as a worship to God…and this was obvious.

Recently, I told someone that I think the thing I like most about doing wedding photography is being able to interact with the bride and groom on a day that they want to remember for the rest of their lives.  It’s true!  I’m grateful to have had the privilege of sharing in Jeremy and Jen’s day.  Blessing to you both!

Special notes: I want to mention that Stacy Troyer did an absolutely beautiful job of styling Jen’s hair.  I also want to thank Deborah Beachy of dgPhotography for assisting me and adding her special touch to her shots!

"First Look"--Jeremy's reaction is priceless!

Beautiful Sisters with Beautiful Eyes!!

This year we decided to advertise in the Columbus Bride magazine.  The magazine is published two times a year and the photographers from the magazine may submit some of their wedding portraits to possibly be used in the next issue of the magazine.  The Fall/Winter issue is scheduled to hit the stands next week, but yesterday I got my preview in the mail and was delighted to have a few of my shots featured from the weddings of Brian & Amanda Miller and Justin & Megan Alt!

Mark and Stacey wanted a rustic/country barn look for their engagement pictures and the location we used was probably one of the most “rustic” spots around!  In fact, I’m afraid the barn will probably not be around for too much longer.  Mark and Stacey were great to work with…they even had to be a bit adventurous to climb up into the old hay loft for a few shots!  I love the portraits where they are relating with each other—you can see love, fun, and even gentleness.

Stacey’s ring has an aquamarine stone instead of a diamond.  She wanted this particular stone because it’s Mark’s birthstone (March).  I think that’s pretty special!  And while we’re talking about what Stacey was “wearing” I have to mention her cute dress and great boots!!  Love the boots!

For me, this session was a “breath of fresh air” and a true joy!  I can’t really explain it, but taking and even editing these pics was just what I needed!

Mark and Stacey’s wedding is coming up on September 1!  Congratulations to you both and may God bless your relationship with His joy and direction.

Zach and Allison’s day was beautiful and full of memories!  A lot of work and planning went into the many details of their day, but when the day finally arrived Zach and Allison wanted to enjoy the day from start to finish.  They began their morning with a pancake breakfast for their bridal party at Allison’s house!    Then while they got dressed, their families were busy preparing for the outdoor reception.  The threat of storms left the set up until just hours before the event, however the storm clouds cleared and the sun began to shine–brightly!

Allison’s dress was made by her mother, Priscilla, and she looked beautiful!  Her sweet, relaxed spirit was evident as she soaked in each moment of their special day.  Zach looked handsome and took everything in stride—even with a few schedule changes throughout the day.  He had on his usual bright smile…especially when he saw his bride!

Allison is my niece, so it was special to be a part of her day.  I want to give a huge thank you to Deborah of dgPhotography for assisting me.  Deborah agreed to shoot the reception so that I could sit and enjoy being with family.  This was such a blessing and Deborah did a great job!  Keep in mind that the beautiful pictures below of the reception details are Deborah’s handiwork!

Deborah caught these shots of these little cuties.

Each love story is special, and Jeremy and Jen have a unique and interesting story that clearly shows God’s hand and leading in their lives.

How did Jeremy and Jen meet?  They met on eHarmony, and after emailing and talking for about a month they met for the first time in person.  See what I mean?!  What a unique story…God even uses the internet!  Jeremy and Jen shared with me that they have so much in common that it feels like they’ve always known each other!

Some of the things that Jeremy and Jen have in common are watching sports  (although some of their favorite teams are not the same :)), doing things outside like having cookouts with friends or playing corn hole, enjoying big Saturday morning breakfasts, and taking walks.  They said, “It may seem cliché, but we always have fun no matter what we’re doing together.”

Jeremy and Jen’s personalities mesh together so well.  Jeremy is easy going, has a big heart, and always thinks of the glass as being three-quarters full, and Jen is fun-loving, sweet, and thoughtful.

When I ask engaged couples to describe what they love about the other I love how they take the time to think about and describe the one they will soon be committing their lives to.  So, I’m going to let you read exactly what Jeremy and Jen shared about each other in their own words….

Jeremy what do you love about Jen?
“I love Jen’s infectious smile and beautiful eyes.  🙂   Those were things that initially drew me to her.  Her sweet and compassionate spirit shows that her beauty goes much more than skin deep and her selfless attitude is apparent as she is always putting others before herself.  I love how we can laugh together regardless of what we are doing and always have a great time together.  I love how she always shows an interest into whatever I might be doing.  She shows me unconditional love and hopefully I show it in return.”

Jen what do you love about your Jeremy?
“Jeremy is a godly man who strives to do the right thing and put God first in his life. He loves life and always has a positive attitude even in difficult situations.  He is someone I can trust and respect, and I know he will be there for me no matter what.  He has such a big, kind heart and that is evident in how he interacts with his family and friends.  I can count on him to make me laugh when I need it most. 🙂  I am so blessed to be marrying my best friend!”

Jeremy and Jen, God bless you as you prepare for your wedding day and serve the Lord together in your marriage!

Jeremy's grandmother made this beautiful quilt.

I love the sunlight on this pic!

Jeremy loves to play golf and Jen hopes to learn soon!