Mary me Photography

NEW BLOG!!

2009-04-08T11:33:00.002-04:00

I've finally upgraded to a better blog with BIGGER pictures...go check it out!!

http://www.marymephotographyblog.com/

: )

"The sea was wet as wet could be, the sands were dry as dry"

2009-04-01T22:20:00.004-04:00

When I stand at the edge of the ocean I feel as though I could take off into the air and fly. You can't help but feel the magnitude of God's creation when it's all around you filling your lungs and rejuvenating your soul. I realized this last weekend that it had been over a year since I had walked on a beach and dipped my toes in the ocean. So Sunday morning while I had some time to myself while John was at the field I took a short trip to the ocean. I brought my camera along despite the fact that it was overcast that day..and actually love the jaded mood of how they turned out.

Baby Eliza

2009-03-22T21:55:00.003-04:00

Last Monday I had a mini session with Miss Eliza Caroline. At 3 weeks old, she takes the cake (with sprinkles) for being Mary me Photography's youngest client thus far. Eliza's mom, Brooke and I grew up in the same church so it was a special treat to be able to take pictures for her. Near the end of the shoot her husband Michael came home from work and was able to join us. They are by far one of the sweetest little families I have been able to work with. They are both overflowing with happiness and joy at their new little one. Even Oscar, the yorkie, was there to help and doesn't mind at all that this little girl has come in and stolen their hearts..and attention. Congratulations Brooke and Michael and may God bless you on your new journey together!

"It's Outta Here!"

2009-03-19T00:08:00.006-04:00

Yes, I noticed as well the two weeks passing without a single post...ugh, I hate it as much as you do..let's blame it on this nasty weather we've been having...it just sucks all my creativity right out of me..I mean, I reluctantly come home from a wonderful weekend soaking up my love in Florida...where I am convinced they have the most gorgeous sunsets and would like to move there asap..only to come home to overcast.freezing.rain.

I'm over it though and have a fun afternoon with some of my favorite people I'd like to share with you!

Have you ever wondered what a family oozing with athleticism likes to do for fun on the weekends? Allow me to show you...

A few weeks ago I received this invitation in the mail, ha.

The Raynor kids had decided to have a home run derby amongst themselves to see who could hit the most bombs...and invited me along for kicks...thank goodness we didn't have to do the whole "picking teams" thing b/c I definately would have been the last one standing as there are no athletic bones in this body. I did think it would be a good chance to try a little sports photography, so I brought my camera along for the ride.
It started with Brody, Anna and Mike..and MaryBeth and Will came later after they got out of softball/baseball practice.

Anna sporting her "Benson All Stars" softball T - circa 1992 or 3?..ha

Mike hitting one out..I love it b/c Brody's ducking : )

I didn't really pay attention to the score, but I know it was between Anna and Mike..i think

"Little Miss Sneaky"

She's so cute

Wilbur striking a pose for the camera..haha...did you notice how tall he is getting??

I even got up and was ecstatic that I got a hit the first time! (granted none of mine made it past the infield)

There's rumored to be a "First Annual Kickball Game" in the works...I'll let you know if it pans out..ha!

**Disclaimer** - If you are a potential client here for the first time, please don't judge me by these photos...it was overcast, close to dark, and I tried to edit them all in like 3.5 seconds...these are totally "just for fun" shots so keep scrolling for the good stuff!

Mud Pie for Your Love

2009-03-05T08:41:00.008-05:00

I still remember the first time I saw him, halting my steps in a new found curious fascination that gave me butterflies and the distinct gut feeling that I should be turning and running in the opposite direction. The year was 1988, and I was a four-year-old little pixie blond catching tadpoles in my pink tutu. We were living on Hanscom Airforce Base in Boston, MA where there was always a plethora of playmates to choose from.

I don't know if his family moved in after ours or if I was just too young to be aware of him before..but one fateful summer afternoon as my best friend Tiffany and I stood waiting for the daily run of the ice cream truck I glanced across the street and saw him...my first crush.

To any other person he was just the average freckled face, skinned-knee young boy...but for me it was one of those moments where the clouds opened and a ray of sunshine beamed down on his face revealing the most beautiful creature I had ever seen.

Our families lived across the street from one another for at least a year or so before we moved. I don't remember if I ever was able to utter a word to him..but I do remember him being kind enough to play with a four-year-old (he was at least 8 or 9) and in my gratefulness for the kindness he showed me I made him a mud pie..and I'll never forget his name..John.

Twenty years later I'm a little taller, no longer blond, and no longer chasing tadpoles...but I am completely in love with a boy named John. I still get butterflies each time I see his face and am excited beyond belief to be flying down to Florida tomorrow to visit him at Spring Training where he's been working hard the past month. I can't wait for our dinners, our talks, to cheer him on from the stands as he steals a base, to "arguing" over who's movie picks are best, and to getting some well-needed time in the sun.

I'll be back late Tuesday night so this is my official "Out of the Office" message...I'll still be answering e-mails but if I'm responding a little later than normal don't get concerned...I'm just soaking in the sun, ballgames and my love.

And for those of you who only come for the pictures..here's one of little miss Lila from her session earlier this week...and yes, she's on the kitchen counter...it's fab, i know ; ).

Twice as Nice

2009-03-01T23:01:00.005-05:00

What's better than one gorgeous pregnant mom-to-be?..Two!

Last Sunday I had a "Mini" session with Leslie & Trinity who are sisters in law going through pregnancy together. It's Leslie's first and Trinity's second and I have to say they are hands-down two of the cutest pregnant women I've ever seen. We had such a fun, relaxed afternoon with the whole family..and the family dog! It was so cold and windy outside that we decided to do the whole session indoors..here are a few of my faves!

You can just feel the baby love..right? Thanks to Jane for sharing her beautiful home and family..and thanks to Leslie and Trinity for such a fun photoshoot! Can't wait to see the new bundles of joy when they arrive!

Sarah, Bridal Part 2

2009-02-22T20:45:00.007-05:00

As promised here are the rest of the images from the Bridal shoot with Sarah! This afternoon I had a photoshoot with two really cute sisters-in-law who are both pregnant..so look for those pictures coming soon!

Sarah, Bridal

2009-02-22T02:05:00.009-05:00

If I could spend every Saturday like this I would. Girlfriend time + my camera + beautiful weather = a happy girl! When I called one of my closest friends, Sarah, to ask her if she would be interested in doing a "Bridal" shoot to add to my portfolio she was more than willing to help! I had also been wanting to find some new locations in Raleigh, so today was the perfect day. What I loved the best was that nothing really was planned. We knew the dress she would wear but everything else was totally spontaneous! Sometimes not having a plan is the best plan. We drove around downtown until we spotted a location we wanted to try and walked to different places from there. Sarah got a few whistles from passerby's...but that's pretty much a normal thing for her that it didn't even phaze her...she's such a pro!

The shoot turned out even better than I expected...I love so many of the images that this will be a two-day post...the few that I've edited today and new ones tomorrow!

Thank you so much Sarah...can't wait to do it again! : )

Extra Sprinkles

2009-02-18T21:02:00.002-05:00

Okay, I know you all are just dying to know the BIG big news in Marymephotographyland..I've had people actually come up to me wanting to be "let in" on the secret..haha...so here ya go!

It's finally ready!! Head on over and check out the newly designed Mary me Photography Website! I have had a lot of new clients contacting me and felt the need to make the site a little more professional-looking. I had a lot of fun designing it and I will probably continue to tweak it because I'm never completely content and love to experiment..let me know what you think!

www.marymephotography.com

Double the Love

2009-02-11T00:54:00.005-05:00

There is something so peaceful about babies..the way they move, the sounds they make, their "baby" smell..that's mesmerizing at times. I have serious baby "wonderment" where when I'm around them I can't help but feel unconditional love for them...getting lost in their little fingers, little toes, and of course the sweet little belly buttons...God's kiss on creation.

And when there's double the babies....there's double the love.

Little men Jake & Westin are 4 month old heart breakers...already. Swooning with personality and this "chill" attitude they hung right in there with me working the camera all afternoon long. Did they need naps?....nope. Multiple changes?....nada. A bottle?....ok, well yes..they are only 4 months old for goodness sake!

But twins....be still my heart, I love twins! That has to be one of the most special bonds between human beings...to have been together from the very beginning...a buddy in the womb all those months. I love watching twins interact. It's amazing how quickly personalities begin to emerge...Jake, being a little smaller than Westin, stuck by his "big" brother's side (whether by gravitational pull or by pure choice) in almost every shot. He looked to Westin the majority of the time while Westin was more curious about the strange girl with the big black box in his face making noises new to his world.

Thank you Rene' for letting me come into your home and rearrange your furniture like I was in my own home! : ) And a big BIG thank you to all the helpers we had in attendance (especially big sister Reagan) to help with the boys!

So without further ado...allow me to present Jake & Westin...I hope you're sitting down because these boys are the kings of preciousness!

Better than Sprinkles?...No Way.

2009-02-07T13:33:00.002-05:00

I know, I knoooooow....slap a slacker hat on my head and put me in the corner! Ugh, I hate when I let more than a week go by without a new entry! I promise I have a good excuse...no, really....I just can't tell you....yet. ; ) There's something that has been stealing me away from my dear blog but is almost complete...so stay tuned for a VERY BIG ANNOUNCEMENT in Mary me Photography land! It's gonna be better than a big ole' box of sprinkles! (If you know me you understand the gravity of those words.)

Have a great day!

MIA

2009-01-29T22:24:00.006-05:00

I will be MIA the next few days...going on a ski trip with my church. I'm taking my camera but leaving my laptop because I've decided that I spend WAY too much time on it and I need to give my eyes (and brain) a rest. I am going to put forth extra effort into experimenting more with my camera this weekend..so check back to see if I get anything good. I haven't been skiing since 3rd grade so hopefully I'll come back with no major injuries. Good thing my ski jacket is black in case I ski off the side of a mountain at least someone will spot me.

Posts are no fun without pictures so let's see what I can find on my hard drive...Oooh, these are pictures that I've kept running across and thought they'd be so cute in black and white...I took these over at my agent's (Dae Wood) house (I call her my agent because she is constantly sending me business and I LOVE her for that!) This is Bryson and his sister Gracie and they are just cute.as.pie!

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

Tell your love story

2009-01-23T10:52:00.012-05:00

Roses are red, Violets are blue, How about a Sweetheart Session for Two!

That's right guys...Valentine's Day is fast approaching..and unless you are Mr. Amazing and always on top of your game then you have yet to think of how you can show the love of your life just how much she means to you! So, let me make it easy for you..surprise her with a short but oh-so-sweet photo session just for the two of you...and she will smother you with kisses, I promise!

Okay..here are the details..

*Sweetheart Mini Session*

$85

60 min session

@ a location of your choice (Preferably somewhere significant to

the both of you...maybe even where you first met??)

15-20 images in a 5"x7" Photo Book telling your love story

1-8"x10" of the image of your choice

a la carte prints & products also available

Call or send an e-mail to schedule your session today!

(919) 820.1642

missmarles@yahoo.com

**Ladies..don't forget to drop hints..you know they need help! ; ) **

I Drove All Night

2009-01-22T19:47:00.013-05:00

Okay..we didn't drive all night..but we did sit in traffic for almost an hour, watching the clock go from 7:30 to 7:45 to 8:00 (official start time) to 8:15...finally pulling into a parking space at 8:30...at least half a mile from the RBC Center. We aren't the only ones though, there's actually a herd of people who, like us, didn't think traffic would be that bad. We jump out of the truck and start racing through the parking lot, weaving in and out of the mass, trying not to slip on the black ice surrounding us. Thank you Jessica Simpson for adding a little tread to the bottom of your oh-so-cute boots I just purchased. : ) However, trying to keep up with the "fastest baserunner" had me wheezing by the time we get to will call while John's not even winded. phew. In the midst of catching my breath I realize that I don't hear anything...no music...no amazing voice (because you know you would hear Celine from outside the venue if she was singing)..which means there must have been an opening act that wasn't advertised and which also means that we weren't late! John grabs the tickets, we rush inside, find our seats, and as soon as we sit down the lights dim...allowing Mrs. Dion to make her grand entrance...

I knew it was fate when she first walked out...we were both wearing purple. Hers was in the form of a sequined purple mini dress and 4 inch heels while mine was a sweater...but still...I knew at any moment she was going to pick me out of the crowd and invite me up on stage as a permanent back-up singer. We would be BFF's for sure. I was in Celine heaven all night long...the music, the dancers, the outfit changes...and John...well he made some comment about needing to regain his manhood...ha.

Needless to say at the end of the night I was a very happy girl...and now with Martina and Celine down I have seen 2 of the 3 ladies that I just "have to see before I die". Who would have thought that Allison Kraus would be so hard to get...someone needs to tell her that this area is actually very southern and she and her bluegrass band would just love it here. Really. Sweet tea in mason jars.

Oh..and I did bring my big Canon but was only able to bring in the little Canon..so the pictures are so-so and really don't do justice for how awesome our seats were.

Look at those legs..

The dancing was very eclectic, but cool.

And the man that made it all possible..

: *

State of Emergency

2009-01-21T12:28:00.008-05:00

I hope everyone around my area had a wonderful snow day yesterday...and for those of you that are out of state but still checking in we saw the most snow that we have seen in like 10 years...schools & businesses were closed...and everyone was happy. : ) Unfortunately I didn't take any snow pics with my camera because..well..I was on the back of a 4-wheeler trekking through slush and mud, over hills and through water holes...and I was just not that gutsy to risk my equipment. I did however get a few pictures with my little point-and-shoot because a post with no pictures is just no fun!

On a more serious note, the night I had been looking forward to for weeks was postponed due to the inclement weather. I know I worried John half the day asking.."but what do you think Celine is going to do?!..you don't honestly think she would cancel her concert just because of a little snow??...I mean she has to know i've been waiting 24 years to see this!" He tried to reassure me that we wouldn't miss Celine...we would plan to leave 2 hours before the concert even started..and take his dad's hummer so even if we met with a mountain of ice and the abominable snowman we would easily plow over both.

At 5 I was just about to jump in the shower to start getting ready and thought "maybe I should check and make sure the concert's still on..but I know Celine won't cancel on me". I went to the RBC Center website and read "Due to the state of emergency declared today by Governor Perdue, Celine Dion has postponed her concert until tomorrow, January 21st."

I can handle that, she's a smart lady..just worried about our safety. Now, if I can just figure out how to covertly sneak my camera in...

Here you can see the huge orange sled we purchased on Monday just in case the weatherman was right...and yes, it is sticking out of my sunroof...don't worry though, the people across the street were laughing along with us.

MaryBeth & Jack riding on snow & mud...a yummy combination.

So attractive in his camo waiters ; )

Brody & Mr. Max

Mike waiting to ambush them with snowballs

I had some nice racoon eyes goin on..

And, finally..John, MB, & Anna dressing Izzie in her cute little snow parka

She hates it by the way...and refuses to move an inch when you put it on her..haha

Jack Frost

2009-01-13T19:35:00.003-05:00

The weather lately has been so crazy..warm to freezing, sunny to rainy..and random fog. I do not like scraping ice off of my windshield in the morning but boy do I love when nature smiles for my camera. The past couple of days while driving I would see different scenes here and there and think "that would make a great picture"...but it really was just too cold for me to get motivated to weather the weather. I'm more of a summer girl really..give me a tropical island and a bottle of tanning lotion any day. But I finally got my lazy butt out the door to take a few shots..spent an hour losing and finding my phone..but thought it was all worth it after seeing these. Hope you enjoy..happy winter. : )

Blown Away

2009-01-08T11:24:00.002-05:00

Okay..until recently I figured like 10 people actually read this blog...maybe 11 to include dad (hey dad) so I never even thought about putting up one of those counter things..I mean, come on there's so much more interesting things going on at tmz.com. To be honest I only started this site because it's kind of "the thing to do" in the photography world...it's so much easier to post a few pictures of your recent work here than to edit your website. But I have really grown to love my blog..she's like that friend you have that will just sit there complacently and listen to you dish about your latest feeling or idea. I have always been a person of expression..whether it be through a song, by a dance or through a camera..we all have those outlets in life that just come naturally and if we haven't used them in a while we grow antsy. At least I do.

Alright, getting back to the whole point of this entry. Out of mere curiosity I loaded one of those site counters onto this blog about two days ago just to see how pitiful my ratings were. I checked back a day later and it said I had over 200 hits! So, to say I was pleasantly pleased would be just a slight understatement. Now, I don't know if that's a lot of not...so if you do and it's not really that big of a deal...please don't burst this bubble. I'm just happy to know anyone outside of the Surles/Wood clan is taking a perusal.

The really cool thing is the different stats I can get from the site counter. Don't worry, I can't see who you are (unless I decide to start hacking IP addresses) but I can see from where you are looking. So, not only was I surprised to find out that more than 3 people were following this thing but I am pleased to announce that Mary me Photography is not only nationwide...we have gone GLOBAL people. That's right, without going through customs or having to show her passport my little blog has popped up in Seoul, Korea (thanks Liz). I think that's pretty awesome. I thought I'd throw in a few maps for those visual learners like me so you can get the full grasp of my territory..ha.

For those of you that are out of state, please let me know the next time you'll be in NC and we'll schedule a shoot...oh and I am always available for travel. ; )

Layla

2009-01-07T22:37:00.004-05:00

I was in Wilmington last week for New Year's and Mandy asked me to snap a few pics of her dotson Layla for her. Layla is such a sweet dog and she loooves to cuddle! I woke up Sunday morning with the start of a cold and ended up on the couch all day. Sweet layla would push the blanket up with her nose until she had her head under and then proceeded to wiggle her way down to the bottom of the blanket..and stayed with me all day like that. Company like that always make you feel better. : )

Millie a Millie

2009-01-06T20:15:00.006-05:00

This shoot couldn't have gone any better...well, it could have been a tad warmer..but with a rustic location...

..and a group like this..

..there's no way you're not going to get some great shots.

Katherine kept everyone laughing, naturally..

..and we got some of my favorite couple shots so far..

I love the connection here.

Thanks Millie for getting everyone together..let's do it again soon!

Holiday Recap : )

2008-12-29T21:19:00.006-05:00

This has been one of my most favorite Christmas's of all time. I knew it would be. When I turned 24 this past October I told everyone that I just felt like it was going to be a good age to be. Don't worry..i'm sure I'll be freaking out come 25. Another favorite age for me was 17..I don't know why but it was just a good age to be. I was old enough to drive and be on my own but I didn't really have any real responsibilities. I think it was more about the anticipation of what the next few years had in store for me. I knew everything was about to change, I would be going to college and everything was so up in the air and exciting. I think that's why I've been so excited about being 24..I have another one of those feelings. I have no idea what is going to happen in the next year or so but I just feel like some big changes are going to be happening and that makes me excited. I couldn't be happier right now in my life...I am completely surrounded by the people who love me, I've found it really is possible to do something you love for a living, and God continues to amaze me every day.

So, without further ado..12 of my favorite things about Christmas this year...and a nice collage to illustrate!

12. Seeing Holland White!

11. Heather calling Holland's haystacks.. "hay-patties"

10. John carrying Mary Michael out to the car after she fell asleep during our church's Christmas Eve service.

9. G R A N D M A.

8. Mom's excitement over her motorized pool lounge..ha

7. John & Kate's version of the "12 Days of Christmas"

6. Finding pictures of Brody & MaryBeth on my camera

5. Dad & Oliver pictures

4. Kate's pin-up poses

3. Aunt Sue's pin-up poses

2. John looking like a ninja

and my number one most FAVORITE thing about Christmas this year....

Yep...that's right....Celine Dion...next time you see John out and about tell him just how awesome he is ; )

Merry Christmas everyone!

Cherub Choir

2008-12-25T10:58:00.011-05:00

Last Sunday the Cherub Choir performed for the Christmas Service and I thought I'd share a few pictures..

Little Miss Anna Preslee was stylin' in her little green dress!

had to get a picture of my dad..

Merry Christmas!

Kathryn & Lacy

2008-12-20T23:20:00.010-05:00

I've known her since she was a baby. When she was two years old and I became her babysitter she would fall asleep on my stomach on the couch after a long night of bubble baths and running circles around her house. We've been all over Disney World together, rode down her dirt path with her sitting out my sunroof singing at the top of our lungs. I have so much love for this girl it's not even funny. The cool thing is that I still get to spend time with her even though she's grown too old for a babysitter. This year for Christmas she wanted to make a calendar of she and her horse Lacy to give to her family. It's been a fun project to work on so I thought I would share it on here.

Love

2008-12-12T00:17:00.007-05:00

She is the cornerstone of our family

the best cook known to man

a warm lap

always, always a kind word

she hates to have her picture taken

but I think she's the most beautiful woman

in the world.

Dear Harry

2008-12-11T21:57:00.002-05:00

You're right. This does take the cake for worst movie ever. At least the car was cool.

Love..Bessie

Getting into the Christmas Spirit

2008-12-08T23:25:00.008-05:00

Friday afternoon John and I loaded up Betsy (my honda accord that's rapidly nearing the end of her life span-dad spends way too much money, thanks dad, on her-and I just found out i'm 2 months behind on my inspection..oops, BUT she still gets great gas mileage so I keep driving her) and headed to Charlotte for Operation Christmas Child with the Surles family. Operation Christmas Child is a mission of Samaritan's Purse where each year they collect Christmas boxes for children overseas. Charlotte is host to the huge collection and distribution center and here people come and volunteer sorting and packing boxes. Since 1993, over 61 million shoe boxes have been distributed. After a quick training session they sent us out to the huge assembly lines and we started our task of unpacking, inspecting, stuffing, taping, and repacking boxes. I have to say, although an assembly line career isn't one I dream of, it definately is a pretty stress free job as you are doing the exact task every.single.time. And they played Christmas music over the loud speaker..so it seemed more like Santa's workshop than it did work. On top of that I got to see some of my dad's side of the family that I haven't seen since I was "this tall". The special treat was seeing my cousin Leanna, whom I absolutely adore!

Leanna

her oldest son, Joshua

pay attention to the speaker, sir! : )

we stopped packing to pray over the boxes

John's job was "repacking" the boxes by age & gender..he said it was like a big game of tetris because you had to get at least 14 boxes in each bigger box and they were all different sizes..

how many engineers and baseball players does it take to pack a box?..(3)

sweet kate...she was a "taper"

.my family.

"no, you can't take the box home!"

free t-shirts..always a plus

(i'm also testing a new action for photoshop I just downloaded..I kinda like it)

the whole group

What a fun Saturday! After lunch we went back to Matt's for a quick nap then John and I had dinner with Jill & her (recently acquired) fiance! I finally got to see the bling...I think I actually stopped Jill in mid-sentence when she waved her hand in front of me...and just snatched it right off her little finger..haha..sorry Jill! But great job Daniel! : )

After dinner John and I headed to the movies...he had really been wanting to see "Role Models"...but I had already seen it so naturally I convince him that we really needed to see that new movie "Australia" with Nicole Kidman & Hugh Jackman instead..and he's such a sweetheart that of course he gave in....well.....3-hours-later we finally get out of the theatre...John's just smiling and shaking his head and i'm thinking "i'm never gonna live this one down" (we have this long-running inside joke about who picks the worst movies...he does, by far)..and we get to the car only to find it unlocked. Unlocked...for three hours on a Saturday night in Charlotte at a very crowded mall....with...drum roll please....my camera bag with ALL my equipment sitting very pretty in the backseat. Let's just say I think I get at least 5 "bad movie passes" for that one and man oh man, how thankful I am for you Betsy...in all your rustiness..no one would ever think to look in your back seat for anything of value. Whew.

Holiday with the Herrings

2008-12-02T12:40:00.013-05:00

The day after Thanksgiving I headed over to my friend Brittany's house to get some pictures of her family for Christmas. We found a really cool location right down the road and with such an attractive family we got some really great shots!

Thomas was a good sport & literally s.q.u.e.e.z.e.d into his shiny blue racing car in front of the tree!

the boys..

and the girls..

and Sophie!

Thank you guys! : )

Little Ones

2008-11-28T13:33:00.005-05:00

So, I have finally found a second to sit down and blog! Sorry I have been such a slacker lately, I have been blessed with a lot of shoots but that means most of my time now is being spent in editing mode. Last Sunday I had a second "Christmas Mini Session" with some really precious kids..so I couldn't help but share a few of my favorites with you all! Here is Mr. Daughtry..can you believe those eyes?

Gracie & Bryson giving big sis Cheryl Lynn sweet kisses!
Maddox..how cute!

Maddox & McKinley..I love the color!

and Will, who still looks cute even if we woke him from his nap!

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!!

Will you Mary me?

2008-11-21T11:05:00.009-05:00

So, for those of you who may be interested in where the name "Mary me Photography" came from (besides the obvious reason)..let me explain. My first taste of photography was my senior year in high school when, during my senior project, I had the priveledge of job shadowing Missy Mclamb, a local wedding photographer in Raleigh, NC. I had always had a love of pictures, but this was the first taste I got of the "photojournalistic" style that is so popular today. I was amazed at her images, how honest and beautiful they were...and so natural.

When I first started playing with the idea to actually pursue this interest, my strongest desire was to get into wedding photography. I love everything about love. I love being in love, I love the way it changes people for the better, I love how unconditional and forgiving it is...and I LOVE that it is eternal. I feel like the love between two people is a (small) representation of Christ's love for us and marriage is our promise to another person to love them as Christ loves us...unconditionally.

So, for those of you that may have wondered where "Mary me Photography" came from..it's not just to plug my own name (although that is being accomplished, i guess)...instead I intended it to be a play on the words "Marry me".

Do I not love working with children and doing senior portraits?!....of COURSE I do! The "Little Ones" I am currently working with have absolutely stolen my heart they are so precious! And I love working with high school seniors because that's when I think you really start to get a feel of your own skin and you really start to feel beautiful..and I love to capture that. So don't worry...I'm not going to be one of those photographers that only specializes in one age group....I love them all!

Okay, the whole point of this post was to tell you about my huge, HUGE announcement...I am so excited I can barely contain my happiness...

I HAVE BOOKED MY FIRST WEDDING!!!

That's right...my first one...and lucky me, the bride is gorgeous...AND they are getting married at the old Salisbury Train Depot (built in 1907...I love me some antiques!)....I am ecstatic to say the least. Thank you Hannah & Dru!

So, are you getting married? Have you found that perfect photographer you just can't live without on your special day? Give me a call...because I just may be the person you are looking for. : )

And just in case you thought I was exaggerating about how gorgeous this bride is I stole a pic off her facebook (hope it's ok with hannah..ha) to prove it....

..and bam....beautiful...can't wait!

Remember..

2008-11-19T18:12:00.008-05:00

your childhood dog who was more like a member of the family than a pet? I remember mine..she was the most sweet natured little girl, she was more like another mother to me than a dog. We were never sure exactly what kind of dog she was, she was a mix but she won our hearts from the first day she showed up in our yard. She watched over me as I played outside, she walked me down the path from my grandma's house next door back home. And whenever I would pat my stomach and open my arms wide she would jump up and very gently put her front paws on my waist and we would "dance"..oh how I loved her.

Two Sundays ago at the end of my first Christmas Card session I met Lady Bug & her family, the Tarts. They had asked if they could bring their dog, and of course I said yes! Lady Bug was very old and couldn't walk very well, so the family had to drive her right up to the place where we were taking the pictures and carry her to her spot. It was so touching to see how this family took care of her so gently and even though she was sick, she was a good dog throughout the whole shoot. The bond between Lady Bug and Mr. Mike (dad) was very apparent and he asked if he could have a picture of just him & his best friend.

Yesterday, Lady Bug passed away. Thank you Lady Bug for the many years of unconditional love you gave this family. Today is dedicated to you.

CharlesAnna & Jonathan

2008-10-19T22:11:00.000-04:00

Friday night was a blast with CharlesAnna & Jonathan at their engagement party down on the farm! Their families did some real magic with a tractor shelter..everything was gorgeous! The food was delicious, the band was awesome & all their loved ones danced the night away. They had a "western theme" so everyone came in their boots and CharlesAnna & Jonathan gave away pink & brown bandannas to all their guests. They were such a fun couple and so photogenic..we got some really cute shots! CharlesAnna is also a photographer so I am very grateful that she asked me to shoot the party (and thanks to Brittany for referring her) and the possibility to work together on some things in the future! I'm posting a couple of the "detail" shots and then some of my favorites from Friday night..

..they had markers & cards for their guests to write them sweet messages..

..they made a poster of the invitations they sent out..how cute!

..all the bridesmaids..

..CharlesAnna & Jonathan..

..everyone was in boots & cowboy hats..

..I love CharlesAnna's expression in this one..

..towards the end of the night Jonathan got up a sang!..

..his number one fan..haha..so precious!..

Thank you CharlesAnna & Jonathan..I wish you both all the happiness in the world!

I would like to introduce you to...

2008-10-13T11:59:00.000-04:00

..my sweetheart. I don't normally post personal things on here, but I figured since it's mostly just friends & family that are reading this thing right now anyways, I could "gush" a little about this man that I think is so amazing. Let me tell you a little about him...

Imagine getting up in the morning just in time to get a quick shower and food, then heading to your job where you'll be for the next 8-10 hours. You'll be in the hot sun..hitting, throwing, running and sliding..and maybe you'll get out by 11 that night. You'll come home tired & sore..grab some food & watch an episode of "Mythbusters" or two and head to bed. Wake up & repeat...for 150 days straight...on top of travel days where you're riding on a busload of guys overnight for 8-14 hours, losing track of days and what state you're currently in. Don't forget the weeks of spring training before your 150 games even begin. And forget about summer vacation..no beach trips for you.

All this being said, you have to understand how much respect I have for him...I mean, I couldn't do it...no way. This lifestyle isn't the most conducive to a relationship either..there really is no time for "date night" and the majority of the time that i'm with him, i'm not actually with him.. just watching him (which I wouldn't trade for anything). And the stuff I mentioned is really only skimming the surface of what all he has to deal with. I know the emotional highs and lows of this game are much more than he ever lets me know. I admire so many things about him..his "hard-work" mindset, his kind heart, the fact that he never wants anything just given to him, how important his family is to him, how he recognizes that our faith is central to everything about us, how excited he gets over the smallest things, & the way he makes me feel.

He's currently in Arizona for 7 weeks (I don't like saying 2 months) and in a few days i'm flying out there for a long weekend...and I can't wait. I got my new equipment the day after his last home game so I will definately be taking some shots of him while i'm out there..so look for a future post with some of him doing what he does best. Last night on the phone I asked him how we could make these next 10 days go by any faster. He answered, "You keep taking pictures & I'll keep playing ball." He made me laugh but it is so true..I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to do as many shoots as I have since he's been gone because it really does help take my mind off of how much I am missing him. I'm so happy to have found something that makes me (almost) as happy as he does and I pray that it will continue.

My goodness, I really did not intend to write this much when I sat down..I have never claimed to be good with words, but this is what was on my heart at the moment and maybe he'll read this and it will make him smile. Oh, and I just couldn't post without a picture, so here is a really old one of us but I think it's still my favorite...and oh yeah, his name is john..

"Cotton" Candy

2008-10-13T00:13:00.000-04:00

This afternoon around sunset Cathryn, her mom, & Lily (the dog) came to my house. Cathryn was one of the three girls I had done a session with together a couple weeks ago, but today was a day all her own! It was a quick session but we got some great shots...here are just a few, i'll try to post more of her and Mary Michael (my sweet potato girl) later this week. I also had a chance to get some pictures of my brother & his girlfriend while they were here for the weekend..so look for those within the next few days also!

I absolutely LOVE this one..

..Cathryn let me get up close & personal..
..sweet lily..

Thanks Cathryn! : )

Sweet Potato Girl

2008-10-12T00:21:00.000-04:00

It doesn't get much better for a little girl than to spend the day with her daddy at work! This morning Mary Michael & I got down and dirty in the sweet potato fields near Roseboro..and let me tell you, this girl knows how to have a good time. I think this daddy would do just about anything for his girl!

I just had to post this shot..Mary Michael's red fire truck tattoo! How cute!

Just look at those eyes..I think someone's going to be a heartbreaker when she grows up!Thanks Mary Michael for a fun day! : )

kMb

2008-09-29T22:47:00.002-04:00

Barn Yard Shinannigans

2008-09-24T23:18:00.001-04:00

So, I had a last-minute shoot with these three fun ladies for their senior ads..it was kinda hectic shooting 3 girls in less than 2 hours but we had a lot of fun running around that barn. : ) Here are just a few of my favorite shots...thanks girls!

2008-05-04T16:32:00.000-04:00

best friends

2008-05-03T00:54:00.000-04:00

This is one of my favorite pictures...it's of my cousin John and his dad at his wedding rehearsal.

Here's just another shot of the church...I wish I could have got some the night of the actual wedding...lit by candles, it was absolutely the most beautiful wedding I have ever been too.

Sarah

2008-05-01T18:59:00.000-04:00

Here are some more shots from Sarah's senior portrait shoot in wilmington.

2008-04-30T13:07:00.001-04:00

.the beautiful bride.

addicted

2008-04-29T14:07:00.001-04:00

So, over the weekend I downloaded Photoshop because I really want to learn how to professionally edit my pictures...and let's just say I think I'm addicted to it now. Sunday alone I spent 6 hours straight after church just playing around with the program and last night when I should have been studying anatomy I just couldn't resist and was preoccupied for another couple hours. I probably should take a class on it because it's not been as easy to pick up as I had hoped. But, here are a few shots of my girl, sarah.

Beginnings

2008-04-28T21:30:00.001-04:00

Welcome to the new photo blog! I like the idea of putting stories to the pictures, so I thought I'd make a site of my own to show some of my favorite pictures and the inspiration behind them. It will probably be more pictures than words (which I always preferred, ha)..hope you enjoy!