There are not enough words in my vocabulary to describe the way we feel about this family. We adore them. We are inspired by them. We relish our time with them. We are blessed to have them as friends, but also as Rye Designs cheerleaders (mascot costumes, anyone?). Any time that we can have a session with them is a time to celebrate because they deserve to be captured and remembered. And that's what we did one lovely, July evening.
You may remember Scott & Mary Ellen's little miracle from last year, or their graduating senior from earlier this year. Now, their little miracle has grown into a walking, talking, one-year-old flurry of cuteness. What we planned as a sunset session at one location actually turned out to be an overcast session at a totally different location, which worked out really well. We had a few sprinkles here and there, but the rain held off as we chased Josh around a little playground. He adopted a pine cone right away, and was so happy to be there.
I had such a hard time figuring out which images to blog, so you get to benefit from my indecisiveness.
Check out the entire collection of images to see the story of their session: http://ryedesigns.com/josh-at-one-year
I'm sorting through yesterday's sunset session, and wanted to share the cuteness with you. You may have met Josh here before, but now he has celebrated his first birthday and learned how to walk. Watch out world, he's fast! After we premiere all of the images to his mom and dad, I'll post the full story. Until then, say hi to Josh...
By Vicki | Posted on 08/01/10 | Posted in Shoot, Kids | 2 Comments | Post Comment
Marti C. : So, So CUTE!! 08/01/10 6:35pm
Mary Ellen Ricketts : You just made my heart stop. He is THE MOST beautiful thing I have ever seen in my life. Ever. Seriously. 08/01/10 6:26pm
Whether I realize it during a session or not, every family that we meet leaves an impression on us. Even after the craziest sessions I find myself sorting through images and realizing the impact. It's in all of those imperfect moments that a family really shines—when they're not looking at the camera or giving their best smile, but enjoying each other—and I feel that they've taught me something. That's the easy part, just taking in the lessons. The hard part? Trying to put those impressions into words every time I write about a family's session. This family is no exception.
The [A] family found us through a referral who, oddly enough, has never had a session with us (but we hope to remedy that soon). We had planned for a sunrise session, but it started storming the night before and we were afraid that we'd have to postpone. By some kind of miracle, we woke up that morning to find the bluest skies and not a drop of rain. The park we wanted to go to for our session doesn't really have a parking lot, so we met at a lot nearby with a little park attached to it. There were some flowers and trees, so we decided to walk around and look for nice backgrounds before going to our original location. We actually spent most of the session at the small park because it turned out to be a great spot!
Following this family around was such a breeze. Mom and dad were all smiles and laughs, and the love they have for each other and their little girl was... well, you can see it radiating from the images. Even if I can't put my lessons into words, the images will show you the fun we had that early Sunday morning.
By Vicki | Posted on 07/19/10 | Posted in Shoot, Family | 1 Comments | Post Comment
Lisa Edwards : Great Photos!!! Cant wait to do ones like that :) 07/20/10 10:55am
Here's a little preview for the adorable [A] family that we got to meet last Sunday. Enjoy.
By Vicki | Posted on 06/19/10 | Posted in Shoot, Family | 1 Comments | Post Comment
Mary Ellen : That little girl is a doll! Beautiful pictures as always. 06/21/10 10:28am
A couple weeks ago Dan and I were able to put down our task lists and deadlines (for the most part), and take a little trip to New York City. We were mainly there to celebrate the wedding of our friends, Sonya and Eddie—you may remember them from their Save the Dates, but since Dan's birthday and our anniversary also fall in the month of May we decided to extend our stay. Our hotel was in a wonderful, little historic district within walking distance of the reception, and even though we spent a lot of time relaxing (me) and working (Dan) in the hotel, we also took some time to see the sights and eat delicious food. Oh my, THE FOOD. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. There were tourist spots that we didn't get to see, but that simply means we'll have to plan another trip there.
The first place we visited—besides the baggage claim at LaGuardia Airport—was Sonya and Eddie's apartment. Eddie took us to the top of the building, and the next three images are what we saw. It was an amazing view. I see some new wall art in my future.
On the second day of our trip, we went to see a taping of the Jimmy Fallon show. Cameras weren't allowed, but I have great mental images of the Rockefeller Plaza and the guests. The full show is online, too, if you want to watch it and see us in the audience. We were sitting in the fifth row, smack in the middle, and Dan was wearing a light green shirt.
Next is the church where Sonya and Eddie got married. The camera came with us to the rehearsal, but not to the wedding. I can't even put it into words, but their rehearsal and wedding were fabulous. They did a tremendous job with the details. If the sun would ever come back to Cincinnati, I could take pictures of the stationery pieces we worked on with them. I'm excited to post everything.
Normally I don't post images of myself because 1) I'm behind the camera, or 2) I never like pictures of myself. This time I'm included in a few shots that I actually like, and I'm so glad that Dan took this one in Times Square. I don't have the best expression, but I can't get over the movement. I can totally remember being there with the hustle and bustle and lights.
We also visited Central Park on our way to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. There were some beautiful bridges and trees.
This is the MET (Metropolitan Museum of Art). It was pretty neat to visit in general, but my favorite area was the modern art. As much as it fascinates me that jewelry and statues were made centuries ago, I'd much rather see paintings by Dali, modern sculptures and funky furniture. I would've liked to visit the Modern Museum of Art, but we'll have to do that next time.
After the MET, we walked down Madison Ave. (hello shopping district!). We eventually ran into the cube Apple store. It's an underground store made from a LOT of glass. This was the view from the elevator, looking up to the ground level. Starting at the top and going to the right, you can see people on the stairs. It's a good thing that both Apple stores we visited that week were sold out of 3G iPads. We would've had a major decision on our hands—to buy an iPad or not to buy an iPad...
Overall it was a great trip. I'm glad we took the subways and walked everywhere, too, but it was ex-haus-ting! I could get in shape in no time... as long as I don't see any gelato shops.
By Vicki | Posted on 05/19/10 | Posted in Personal, Travel, Shoot | 4 Comments | Post Comment
Tom Tanner : Amazing pictures!! 05/21/10 6:33pm
Susan Craig : Great shots! You guys really captured some beautiful parts of the city!! Isn't it an amazing place?! Can't wait to go back again! 05/20/10 12:37pm
Lisa Edwards : LOVE it!!! Beautiful pictures!! 05/20/10 11:32am
Michelle Adams : GORGEOUS! I love the 2nd shot! I'm going next month and you've made me even more excited to get there!!!!!!! 05/19/10 10:09pm
Kale's session is one that we looked forward to for many reasons, even before it was scheduled. We've known his family for several years, and we've recently been able to see his creative talents and the person he is becoming. It's equally shocking and inspiring to see some of his Facebook updates because he has such a great faith and wants to share it with everyone. Sometimes I find myself wondering where in the world he came from, and other times I'm just speechless—in a good way.
The location was another reason Dan and I looked forward to this session. We started indoors with a serious smorgasbord of textures and colors. After that, the weather was nice enough to check out the (mostly) abandoned buildings next door. Throw in Kale's fun ideas, some trespassing, a little climbing, and trekking through the snow, and you have one hilarious and memorable session.
Oh, and I can't forget to mention the cool shoes. His had purple on them, but I wonder if they come in turquoise...
If the authorities come looking for us, we have proof that Kale entered first! Funny enough, Dan and I both work for the company that used to be here. If we were caught, Dan's plan was to flash his company hat and jacket to say, "Hey, we work here!" HA!
After Kale sat in the metal piece (on the right), we asked him to climb on top of it for the shot on the left. It was a HUGE, cone-shaped thing. I think it was worth it, but I wasn't the one 10 feet high on a rocking metal cone.
Kale: We're blessed to know you and to capture such an important part of your life. We can't wait to see where life takes you next.
Thanks for bringing your ideas to the table, and for trying some new things. Hope you like what you've seen so far. :)
By Vicki | Posted on 02/27/10 | Posted in Shoot, Seniors | 1 Comments | Post Comment
Mary Ellen Ricketts : OMG! My sons are handsome! 02/28/10 7:37pm
I thought it would be fun to stop by tonight and show you an image from the session I'm sorting. We had a senior session with Kale this weekend, and if you keep up with our Facebook or twitter then you've already heard what a rad guy he is. Our session involved some jumping, sliding, and even trespassing! Here's a little sneak peek for Kale until his official blog debut. I can tell that choosing favorites is going to be tough!
By Vicki | Posted on 02/21/10 | Posted in Shoot, Seniors | 1 Comments | Post Comment
Kale Ricketts : I love it! It's so awesome! HA! Can't wait to see the rest of them! Whoop Whoop! 02/22/10 3:59pm
Aaron and Susan had to wait three days after their due date, and endure many (MANY!) hours of labor, before meeting their little one. She was perfectly happy staying put, and with the freezing weather of the Midwest I don't blame her one bit. But she finally arrived, and we got to meet her this past Sunday. I'm happy to introduce you to Miss Claire...
Besides vetoing a couple of poses, she was really content throughout the afternoon.
Look at the tiny, pink boots!
And the details in her nursery...
She somehow knew exactly when the cameras were pointed at her face, because this was her reaction. :)
Aaron and Susan: thank you for letting us meet Claire and hang out with your little family. We can't wait to show you the rest of the images.
By Vicki | Posted on 01/05/10 | Posted in Shoot, Newborn | 1 Comments | Post Comment
Judy : Great pics! What a good-looking kid! 01/11/10 3:22pm
On Sunday, we had the pleasure of meeting Joe and Maura's adorable baby boy. Even though he had grown in the 11 days since his birth, he was still so tiny to us. He was a great sport throughout the session, which included a little nap for him while we ate lunch. Joe and Maura have such wonderful colors in their home that, combined with the outfits they chose, made the images look very soothing. I couldn't think of a better turn-out.
I hope Joe and Maura enjoy the sneak peek of their beautiful family. And with that, I'm happy to introduce you to sweet Owen...
Look at those squishy cheeks!
And those little feet!
Joe and Maura: thank you for letting us invade your home and hang out while meeting Owen. Hopefully everyone was able to nap after we left. :) We're looking forward to seeing you next week!
By Vicki | Posted on 12/23/09 | Posted in Shoot, Newborn | 0 Comments | Post Comment
Last week I explained a bit about the group of friends that are connected to Dan, and you got to meet Aaron and Susan. This week, you get to meet another adorable couple from the group. In fact, their two due dates are only days apart, so it'll be interesting to see who arrives first.
Meet Joe, Maura, and their baby boy...
Getting Joe to smile naturally was a feat in itself, so getting him mid-laugh was like a triple score. I'm not sure what we were talking about here—probably something about making sure he ends up on Awkward Family Photos in 20 years.
I'm glad that Maura wanted some bare belly shots during the session. We were losing sunlight fast, but we got a couple cute ones. Sorry internet, but this is as revealing as it gets for you...
By Vicki | Posted on 11/19/09 | Posted in Shoot, Maternity | 0 Comments | Post Comment
By Vicki | Posted on 08/22/10 | Posted in Shoot, Kids | 0 Comments | Post Comment