Mary Cyrus Photography - Dallas Wedding & Portrait Photographer

Barr Mansion Wedding: Charles & Alyssa

2011-12-30T21:18:00.000-08:00

I'm so glad I had the opportunity to shoot the wedding of Charles and Alyssa, my most photographed couple yet! They were married on the 4th of July at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church in Pflugerville and their reception followed at the beautiful Barr Mansion in Austin (that's right folks - I happily make the drive down from Dallas). As much as I drooled over the Barr Mansion when I was a bride and saw it in magazines and blogs, I love it even more now as a wedding photographer. With its walls of glass, the natural light in that ballroom is to die for. I've known Charles for nearly ten years now, and although for most of that time we've been "internet friends", it was so exciting to see him marry the wonderful woman that is Alyssa. I've seen their relationship grow from one photo session to another and it's obvious that they've found the perfect match in one other. Here's to their first six months of marriage, and here's to many, many more years! Here's to more portrait sessions too. ;)

Vendors
+ DJ: Joel Giorgio with Greenbelt DJ
+ Reception: Barr Mansion

Christmas 2011

2011-12-30T21:16:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas (or whatever holidays you may celebrate in this season) and that the New Year treats you well! My husband Opie and I had a very nice, very busy Christmas. Between Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, we had 5 Christmas celebrations: a dinner at my cousin's house on Christmas Eve, our own gift exchange at our house early Christmas morning, brunch at my parents' house later in the morning, afternoon snacks with Opie's Dad's family at his Aunt's house, and dinner at Opie's Mom's house. Phew. I'm a little exhausted all over again just writing that out! I took quite a few photos of the festivities with my beloved new camera (probably 3/4 of which feature my adorable 18-month-old nephew) so I thought I'd share a few with you.

Everyone have a fun, safe New Years Eve! Opie and I will be having a quiet night in and I can't wait. I guess I'm easy to please. And/or a homebody. ;)

-Mary

Allen High School Senior Portraits: Cassandra

2011-12-06T16:47:00.001-08:00

Last week I had the privilege of shooting Cassandra's Senior Portraits at a local park here in Allen. She's the Captain of Allen High School's Drill Team, a very talented ballerina, a certified nurse assistant, and my good friend Allison's gorgeous little sister. Photographing either of these girls is a breeze (can we say, "Photogenic"?) and I'm so pleased with how this session turned out. I also got to step outside of my comfort zone a bit and experiment with some action photos of her dancing in the twilight, which was a blast.

The Jackson Family

2011-11-22T07:55:00.001-08:00

I met up with the Jackson family on Sunday to knock out some Christmas portraits... but of course it started raining about 3 minutes into our session. And then it started absolutely pouring about 10 minutes in. Things got cut short a bit, but here are a few of the shots I got off before we ran for cover! :)

Minneapolis Wedding: Merritt & Alex (Part II)

2011-11-20T14:59:00.001-08:00

As promised, here's the rest of Merritt & Alex's laid back Baker Park Reserve wedding celebration. It's as clear as day in these photos that this was one heck of a fun wedding. With a live band covering a multitude of folksy genres, great food (hamburgers, hooray!), free-flowing drinks, and a lively dancing crowd, this was one rockin' party. I handed my camera off to an uncle for safe-keeping for one tune so I could get my stepdancing on with my newlywed cousin. If you want this photographer to dance at your wedding, have a fiddler play a reel. Actually, just having a fiddler on hand is a good start by itself.

Some of the typical traditions were skipped, but it sure didn't feel like this wedding was missing anything. The "first dance" was between the bride and a nephew she was keeping entertained. A packed dance floor followed shortly thereafter. In addition to their cake, they had a "Candy Mountain" for all of the kids to achieve their ideal sugar high. Toasts were open mic. Continuing this wedding's trend of friend and family contributions, Merritt's father read a poem he wrote for them that day, and one of their friends played them a song she wrote for them too. And of course, the giant sugar skulls made by a friend played their part in a fantastic impromptu grand finale to the wedding.

Congrats again guys!

Photography: Mary Cyrus
Venue: Baker Near-Wilderness Settlement
Music: Light of the Moon

Minneapolis Wedding: Merritt & Alex (Part I)

2011-11-18T22:23:00.000-08:00

This summer I wandered up to the Minneapolis, Minnesota area to photograph my cousin Merritt's wedding. They definitely embraced the ethos of "A Practical Wedding" even though I didn't point her toward the site until the wedding was already planned. My family is just naturally down to earth and awesome like that, I think. They had an intimate ceremony and said their vows on the Summer Solstice, followed by a celebration and another ceremony on the following Saturday. This is that Saturday. It was definitely a community event. Friends and family all pitched in to every aspect of the day! The wedding was held at the Lodge of the Baker Park Reserve, and most of the guests stayed in cabins on-site that night. The party lived on deep into the night, getting more and more raucous by the hour, I think. Even though I was working, it definitely ranks in the top 3 most fun weddings of my life (including my own). I think the fun, easy-going vibe of the day will be more than evident as you look through the photos below. I love this wedding far too much to cram it all into one post, so check back on Sunday for the reception!

If you're too impatient to wait until Sunday for more photos of this wedding, feel free to check out the entire wedding here.

Seattle Trip!

2011-11-06T20:45:00.000-08:00

I went up to Seattle (well, Puyallup) last weekend to visit my sister and her family. We had a blast, as was expected. It's nearly impossible for the two of us to get together without some manner of awesome shenanigans occurring. We spent quite a bit of time harassing the staff at her local coffee shop. We wandered around a nature preserve in the ridiculously cold rain. We went shopping. A lot. We sang in the car. A lot. We ate. A lot. I also got to watch one of her roller derby bouts for the first time, which was of course inherently awesome. Her husband explained the rules to me while she was out there throwing her hips into people and such. I also got to hang out with my nephew a bit. He has grown SO much since I last saw him. Thankfully he was in the midst of a 2-week-long break from his seizures while I was there, so I got to see him at his happy squealy best! Oh, there were chocolate mustaches at one point too, thanks to the aforementioned coffee shop. Here are a few of the photos I took during my stay. I can't wait to get back up again!

Washington is gorgeous this time of year, yes?

My sister, "Gita Kraken" is the one sporting the one red sock and the dark navy tights. You might notice the distinct lack of people on their bench, so she skated a whooole lot.

Enter mustache tomfoolery. My nephew Connor is very dapper.

I miss you sister!

-Mary

Happy Anniversary: 2 Years

2011-10-11T20:47:00.000-07:00

It's been an amazing 2 years of marriage with my husband Opie. So looking forward to many, many more years to come. We celebrated with an indoor picnic lunch (alas, it was raining) set to bluegrass music, dinner at the restaurant where we had our first date 4.5 years ago, and my introduction to Battlestar Gallactica (which I am now completely hooked on, of course). It was low-key and perfect.

Photo from our wedding day by Jenna Cole.

Jewelry: Earthbound Trading Co.

2011-10-04T21:23:00.000-07:00

Not gonna lie. I'm pretty fond of the simple but sweet styling I did for my photos of these necklaces at my "day job." It doesn't hurt that our buyers picked some ridiculously adorable jewelry for the Fall. I love both of my jobs. And I love that I get to rock the camera at both of them! You can check out more of this shoot here.

Sneak Peek: The Patterson Family

2011-10-03T07:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I got to take photos of a family I basically grew up with. Megan and I have been friends since we were about 8, and best friends for many of those years. We've drifted some as life has happened, but she's back in town now and I hope we can find the time to pick up where we left off. Despite my best mental efforts to keep her little brother Christopher perpetually in elementary school, he's a high school senior this year and suddenly so much taller. It freaks me out, but then the fact that my siblings are both married with children (to say nothing of me being married) disturbs Megan too. Shirley was always the cool mom that insisted I call her by her first name. And Tim? Tim's a hard working electrical engineer who jumps out of airplanes on a regular basis. Yeah.

So, this family that I love hadn't had any family portraits taken in about 10 years. We fixed that last night at Adriatica in McKinney. Enjoy a few shots from their session while I finish editing the rest!

Hello October!

2011-10-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

October has been my favorite month for about as long as I can remember. And no, it has nothing to do with Pumpkin Spice Lattes at Starbucks. This ex-barista isn't much of a fan (but I will take some cider or a cappuccino, thanks!). There's just something about those first brisk real Fall days that never fails to energize me. Most years even into adulthood, on the first crisp day of the year, I run out into the field nearest my house and just soak it in. I've been too busy to really embrace that random act this year, but you better believe I'm soaking it up via walks with my great danes all the same. Photo shoots this time of year are also absolutely ideal. All of my clients that have booked for this month, you're genius. I still have some availability, if you're interested - get in touch!

October 13th is my half-birthday, which was strangely exciting as a kid. Suddenly I was five-and-a-half, not just five, and don't you forget it! Don't forget to wish me a Very Merry Unbirthday.

October also means it's time for the Celtic Colours music festival based in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. I've had the joy to attend twice, and every year I haven't, I wish I could have. I know the leaves are turning in the most spectacular way up there right now. I'm jealous, you Maritimers. I'm jealous. I'll get back up in October some year, with husband in tow.

And of course there's always Halloween. I've always gone all out on homemade costumes, and that hasn't changed a bit with time. My husband and I usually go as a themed pair - V and Evie of 'V for Vendetta' (yes, I shaved my head), Jack and Sally of 'A Nightmare Before Christmas', the witch and Tim from 'Monty Python & The Holy Grail', and Adam and Jamie from 'MythBusters' to name a few. I was Adam, if you're wondering. Sadly we'll be apart this Halloween, and I'll be traveling on Halloween itself. How do you think the TSA would feel about me going through security in costume?

The very best part of October now is my wedding anniversary, of course. Opie and I will be celebrating 2 years of marriage this year. We got engaged in October of 2008. We got our first dog, Trajan, that month as well. October is a good month for our relationship. July is good too (we started dating and bought our house two different years during July) but October is clearly best.

Wedding photos by Jenna Cole.

Happy October! I hope October treats us as well as usual, and that it treats you well too. Now go run around outside and soak in this weather!

Sneak Peek: Engagement - Siobhan & Jason

2011-08-15T11:27:00.000-07:00

I had a couples session scheduled for last Monday with Siobhan and Jason that had to be rescheduled. By the time our new appointment time rolled around today, it had become an engagement session! Congrats again, you two. I used to work with Siobhan at Starbucks, where I'm pretty sure I was the only person who had previous knowledge of how to pronounce her name. I guess that's what happens when you have an obsession with Celtic music and culture... little things like popular Gaelic names come easy to ya'. I have a strong suspicion Jason knew how to pronounce her name too, because it sounds like he shares that interest. Also? He has a great dane (I have two). So between those two things and the fact that he seemed like a really nice guy when I met him today, he has my approval. I know you were looking for my approval, Siobhan. Right? Right. Anyhow, enjoy a few photos from this morning. The light was so beautiful! And it wasn't 106° yet!

Anna & Harper - Allen, Texas Wedding

2011-08-09T23:18:00.000-07:00

I've had the joy of working for quite a few friends with camera in hand now. Anna was especially fun to work with because it was like a flashback to Pre-Calculus and Calculus every time we corresponded. That may not actually sound like fun, but trust me. It was. I met Anna in Pre-Calculus when she was assigned a seat next to me. We passed notes full of doodles, emoticons and the kind of intentionally awful grammar that makes our parents cringe, a la "lolcats". That carried over to our shared Calculus class the next year, and evidently on to wedding planning as well. She'd sign off with things like, "HOW PSYCHED ARE YOU FOR THIS WEDDING!?!?! - Bridezillarz" and I would naturally reply, "I AM SUPER PSYCHED FOR THIS WEDDING!!1!one!1! -Photographasaur" I mean, that's the only correct reply.

Anyhow, Anna and her husband Harper had the kind of wedding I love most - down-to-earth, simple joyful celebration, and all the priorities in order. They definitely recognized that if they were married at the end of the day, then their mission for the day was accomplished. If there were any real snags, I sure didn't notice. I think some items had to be retrieved from home for the ceremony, but for me, and I think for the two of them, those little snafus were completely overshadowed by the things that went perfectly. The wedding mass was beautiful (I love St. Jude's "new" Church building; I hadn't attended a mass there since the new building was built) and the sermon was heartfelt. The reception was held at a hotel on the other side of our hometown, with dancing, chatting, hors d'oeuvres, and wine aplenty. Also: Bubbles. Lots and lots of bubbles.

Aislinn & Sean - Bridlewood Golf Club Wedding

2011-08-01T22:21:00.000-07:00

Aislinn and Sean were wed on April 2nd at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Grapevine, Texas, and had their reception at Bridlewood Golf Club in Flower Mound. If you know me well in person, you're likely to see a familiar face (in fact, she's appeared on this blog a few times). Aislinn is my sister-in-law Melissa's long time best friend. Aislinn was Melissa's Maid of Honor and now it's Melissa's turn to return the favor! Also, just as my brother and Melissa met via Ultimate Frisbee, so too did Aislinn and Sean. If you're looking for love, go play a little Ultimate and see what happens.

Melissa, if you have any more couples as awesome as Aislinn and Sean up your sleeve, feel free to send them my way. From their engagement portraits through the wedding day, I enjoyed each interaction with this couple. They're a little bit goofy, so laid back and a blast to be around. It also doesn't hurt that they're unbelievably photogenic.

I mentioned that they're photogenic, right?

I hope your marriage is treating you well, Sean and Aislinn. I have no doubt it is!

[The full wedding can be seen here.]

Sneak Peek: Barr Mansion Wedding - Charles & Alyssa

2011-07-05T22:16:00.000-07:00

Wow, I have a lot of blogging to catch up on! Until I get caught up, be sure to head over to my facebook page, which is much more up to date. For now, I want to share one image from yesterday's wedding at the Barr Mansion in Austin. I think Charles & Alyssa currently hold my record for "Most Photographed Couple." It was exciting seeing my work used in so many creative ways around their reception space, but more on that later. Right now, enjoy this little peek at their wedding day:

Sneak Peek: Allen, Texas Wedding - Anna & Harper

2011-04-30T20:23:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful time photographing Anna & Harper's wedding today in my hometown. The sermon during mass was one of the most touching I've ever heard, and the reception was just the perfect blend of fun, practical, and beautiful. I can't wait to share the rest of the photos with you! Here are a few to tide us all over for now though!

Dalhousie Castle Wedding: Jada & Jon - Part II

2011-04-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

Here's the second half of Jada & Jon's Scotland wedding, as promised. As I mentioned, there were only ten of us, the bride, groom and myself included, who attended this intimate destination wedding. As such, you'll see literally every guest (except me!) in the photos that follow.

After the ceremony, we retired to the library bar for some celebratory drinks before heading out into the fog for portraits.

It's a little bit hilarious how much Corona was consumed on this trip, despite being in Scotland. You can take the Texan out of Texas...

I couldn't ask for a better backdrop for portraits than a 13th century castle and the foggy green rolling hills we found in Midlothian, Scotland. I desperately wish we could have venues like this at home!

After portraits, we headed back inside for the cake cutting. Jada's mom had brought along a cake cutter, but little did we know the bagpiper had other plans, accompanied by another speech.

Now that is a cake cutter. I want to say it's actually a Scottish Dirk, but I could be mixing up terms. Anyway, it's a heck of a big knife.

The piper offered some final words of wisdom and well wishes, and at that point I was relieved of my duties in order to enjoy a fantastic five course meal in the castle dungeon. Clearly I wasn't already being spoiled enough by being brought to Scotland and having the opportunity to photograph an unbelievably beautiful wedding. Thanks again to all of the Barnes/Graff crew!

Dalhousie Castle Wedding: Jada & Jon - Part I

2011-04-23T19:58:00.000-07:00

In March, I accompanied nine other people to Edinburgh, Scotland. We stayed together in two apartments (I guess "flats" would be the proper term) for a full week, and celebrated the marriage of two among us in the middle of the week. The bride, Jada, and I were friends back in middle school but our social circles drifted apart in high school. I saw her groom, Jon, around school but probably never knew his name. By the end of a week in a foreign country with them, their immediate family and two of their closest friends, I'd say we're friends again and anew.

Jada and Jon were best friends throughout high school and beyond. They both fell for one another long before they made anything official as a fear of ruining their friendship with a relationship kept things from going further. The good news is that a relationship with your best friend is the best kind there is and they finally figured that out too.

Jon's dream was to move to Hawaii after high school. He scrimped and saved and eventually made the move, only to realize how desperately he and Jada missed each other. She quickly hopped on a plane and joined him there. They've since moved back to good ol' Allen, Texas, but I guess they were due for another adventure, since they had their wedding at beautiful Dalhousie Castle outside of Edinburgh. I can't thank them enough for taking me along.

The day started out with unseasonably blue skies, but a thick fog rolled in while everyone was getting ready. Jada wanted some authentic Scottish weather for her Scottish wedding, so it was perfect.

As this was a destination wedding, most everything was arranged sight unseen by a variety of vendors coordinated by the lovely Highland Country Weddings. Jada was a little nervous about her bouquet, but it turned out beautifully.

The boys relaxed in the library bar while the girls got ready upstairs. Then they were off for an important duty at the falconry on the castle grounds.

I loved that Jada's dad placed a silver sixpence in her awesome wedding shoes.

Jada looked so, so beautiful. I'm still ridiculously in love with her tattoos as well.

With shoes and veil and everything in place, it was time to head down to the chapel, led by a bagpiper, naturally.

Jon and Jada included an Irish Handfasting in their ceremony. It's the origin of the "tying the knot" idiom, and one of my favorite wedding traditions.

Remember that trip to the falconry that the boys made before the ceremony? The best man Willy had to go learn how to catch an owl ring bearer.

The marriage license had to be signed on the day of the wedding by the bride, groom, officiant and two witnesses to be made official.

The bagpiper made one of his many speeches to the new bride and groom and then led them out of the chapel.

Be sure to check back Monday for Jon & Jada's portraits, cake cutting, and their candid post-ceremony celebrations!

And Now For Something Completely Different

2011-04-14T00:35:00.000-07:00

A little personal video project created from still photography. Nevermind my maiden name used in the end credits. The beautiful model is my friend Caitlyn and the song is Half Acre by Hem.

Half Acre from Mary Cyrus on Vimeo.

McKinney, TX Engagement: Anna & Harper

2011-04-06T09:03:00.000-07:00

Anna & Harper are next up among my 2011 Weddings! I can't believe their wedding is already almost here. Anna was one of my good friends in High School - we were both in orchestra, and seemingly always in the same math classes (which we passed with flying colors despite spending most of our time passing notes and comical doodles). I think she's found a real keeper in Harper, and I can't wait to photograph their wedding later this month!

-Mary

Allen, TX Senior Portraits: Troy

2011-04-04T19:06:00.000-07:00

The Senior Year is coming to an end for the Class of 2011, and I've had a few great sessions for these almost-graduates as the year winds down. I think Troy and I both had a good time at his Senior Portrait session last month, even if we did make him get up at the crack of dawn on a weekend. Troy is almost able to escape from my own alma mater, Allen High School, and I understand his readiness to be finished all too well. Almost there, Troy!

Sneak Peek: Bridlewood Golf Club Wedding - Aislinn & Sean

2011-04-03T17:54:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick look at the handsome couple whose wedding I shot yesterday. They sure make this photographer's job easy! I can't wait to share the rest of their wedding with you! I also hear tell that they're on their way to the Bahamas for their Honeymoon. Jealous!

-Mary

Sneak Peek: Engagement - Charles & Alyssa

2011-03-26T22:57:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick peek at today's engagement session with one of my summer wedding couples. They were some of my guinea pigs back in the earliest days of my business, and I'm thrilled to have them back. They're incredibly natural in front of the camera and a joy to photograph. One of many reasons that I can't wait for the wedding in July!

Sneak Peek: Dalhousie Castle Wedding - Jon & Jada

2011-03-23T21:59:00.000-07:00

A week ago today, I shot the most beautiful wedding I can imagine at Dalhousie Castle outside of Edinburgh, Scotland. A castle, 5 kilted men, a glowing bride with the most gorgeous tattoos, and well, Scotland, with a magical fog settled over it. I truly couldn't ask for more. Unless it involved my own husband in a kilt. Opie, please?

To see a few more shots from this awesome wedding, click over to my facebook page. More will be forthcoming in the next few weeks.

Scotland Bound

2011-03-12T09:34:00.000-08:00

I'm heading to Scotland today! I'll be shooting a wedding at a 13th century castle. The ring bearer is an owl (or was it a falcon?) and all the men in attendance will be sporting kilts. Don't pretend you're not jealous. I'll be back in town late next Saturday! Everyone have a good St. Patty's Day while I'm gone. I actually posted this picture last St. Patrick's. Seems very fitting for a trip to Scotland too.

-Mary

Engagement Portraits: Jada & Jon

2011-01-30T20:40:00.000-08:00

Jada and Jon were another of my couples to choose to do their engagement session in the fall, the most wonderful season in Texas. I went to high school with both of them, and hung out with Jada a fair bit in middle school. It's exciting seeing all my hometown buddies getting engaged - I was a bit ahead of the curve when I got married in 2009.

We romped around on the train tracks, but Jada and Jon currently hold the title for Most Awesome Clients Ever because they arranged with a local pilot to let us use his cherry red airplane for part of our session. So. Awesome. They didn't even know the guy. They just cold called his house a week or so before the shoot and begged and pleaded. I think there might have been baked goods involved. Did I mention that they're awesome? Because, wow.

They've now outdone themselves in an even bigger and better way in the Awesome category, but more on that in a minute.

Airplane!

I'm in love with Jada's tattoos. Makes me want to expand on my own. Mom and Dad, you never read this. Never happened.

There have been a few changes in plans along the way in their wedding planning process, for which Jada is always adorably apologetic. First 'twas going to be a ginormous wedding this coming Fall, but she decided a big wedding was not what she wanted after all. Next was a plan for a Spring wedding with just their very nearest and dearest at a historic courthouse or somewhere equally interesting locally. And now, a Spring wedding is still in the works, but it has been moved to SCOTLAND and I'm going with.

In case you didn't hear me,

I'm going to Scotland.

I love all my clients but they're winning the Most Awesome Clients Ever award fair and square right now. But if anyone wants to take me along to Ireland...

Allen, TX Engagement Portraits: Aislinn & Sean

2011-01-28T21:06:00.000-08:00

Back in November, I met up with Aislinn and Sean on the decommissioned railroad tracks in Allen. This is definitely one of my favorite places in town to shoot, and oh man, the November evening light was so, so gorgeous streaming through the golden Autumn leaves. Fall is hands down my favorite season in North Texas, and Fall photo sessions are a large part of that.

These two are silly and adorable and so obviously in love. It makes my job so easy and fun.

They spontaneously broke out in a stick duel. I'm happy to document it. I would like to see a rematch on the wedding day though.

They're hogging all the gorgeous blue eyes and it isn't fair.

I'm a simple solitaire sort of girl, so naturally I -love- Aislinn's ring. Gorgeous.

Favorite shot of the day, hands down:

Although today was 70+ degrees and beautiful (January, what are you doing?) I still want to bottle this November light up and carry it with me always.

We ended the session over at Allen Heritage Village, another favorite haunt of mine.

I'm so looking forward to shooting their wedding in April. I couldn't ask for more fun, photogenic clients (despite what people may have told you Sean, you're -both- naturals in front of the camera) and I have no doubts that their wedding will be a joy to shoot.

Snow in North Texas

2011-01-12T22:58:00.000-08:00

We got a pretty good amount of snowfall on Sunday in the affectionately dubbed Snowpocalypse 2011. There's about 3 inches of snow that's still hanging out in my front yard on Wednesday, which is pretty remarkable for Texas. I'm used to getting a half inch overnight and it being gone by noon the same day!

I had a great time running around in the snow with my great danes, my cousin and his family, and one of my good friends. I still need to go through the rest of my photos but here's one of my favorites with a little animation thrown in for extra fanciness.

2010 Recap: Favorite Wedding Photos

2011-01-04T09:27:00.000-08:00

In 2010, I was lucky enough to shoot my first three weddings. It's not exactly an impressive number, but it's a number I'm proud of all the same. I was the second shooter at the first, and the primary photographer at the other two. Each wedding was such a learning and growing experience, and I'm incredibly thankful to the brides, grooms, and their families who welcomed me into their important life events. Part of why I didn't more actively pursue weddings at first was that I wasn't sure if I would enjoy working these sometimes stressful events. I can now confidently say that I love it. I really can't think of anything I'd find more rewarding than documenting these awesome celebrations of love. I thrive on the adrenaline-fueled breakneck pace.

Here's a peek back at my three 2010 weddings.

Raquel Cesar:

Sara & Trenton:

Kate & Greg:

I've already booked four weddings in the first half of 2011, and I'm incredibly excited for each of them. I already knew one or the other member of most of these couples, but I've loved getting to know them and their fiances better at their included engagement sessions. I know the weddings of 2011 are going to rock my face off. Can't wait!

2010 Recap: Favorite Solo Portraits

2011-01-03T10:34:00.000-08:00

I shot a variety of solo sessions this last year. Sometimes paid, sometimes for my own enjoyment. Many of these have not yet made it onto my blog, but I'm doing my best to get caught up on blogging. As previously mentioned, I don't really do New Years Resolutions, but my non-resolution is to get back on the blogging wagon.

Here are some of my favorite solo shots from 2010, many of which you'll see more of soon. Some are Senior Portraits, some are Bridals, some have more of a fashion direction, and many were just because I had a hankering to shoot and a friend conveniently at hand. One of my favorite sessions was for my sister's Roller Derby draft application.

Caitlyn:

Kristi:

Trish:

Christina:

Sara:

Casey:

Ryan:

Jessie:

I get to work with such beautiful people. :)

Mary

2010 Recap: Favorite Family Portraits

2011-01-02T13:00:00.000-08:00

I think one of the things that surprised me most in getting my business going this year was discovering just how much I love shooting family portrait sessions. I especially love chasing around ambulatory munchkins. It's like the adrenaline rush I get at weddings, but with much more giggling.

Here are some of my favorite portraits of children, families, and pregnant ladies (because baby-on-the-way is still a baby in a roundabout way).

Elise:

Coffee:

Kayla:

Rylan:

Allison:

Melissa:

Will:

Drury:

Kayla (again):

Lily (and Kayla):

Will (again):

My husband and I are nowhere near ready to bring any kids into our lives, but I love getting to spend time with kids with my camera in tow. It sort of scratches my baby itch and keeps me content to wait another long while. I'm lucky enough to live in a neighborhood with a ton of young families and some beautiful parks within the neighborhood itself. It's really the perfect set-up for child photography. Here's hoping I shoot a ton more family sessions in 2011!

Mary

2010 Recap: Favorite Engagement Portraits

2011-01-01T15:34:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone!

Although we've already entered 2011 (crazy!), I'd love to take a moment to look back on some of my favorite moments of 2010. It's not lip service when I say I love my job as a photographer. It naturally follows that some of my happiest days this last year have been shared with my photography clients. I don't generally set official New Years Resolutions for myself, but I did challenge myself to launch a photography business in 2010 and see where it took me. I started off with some free sessions in January to build my portfolio, and it's been awesome to see the organic growth that's followed. In 2011, my business is taking an even higher priority and I'm so excited to see what growth I'll be able to look back on at the beginning of 2012.

Here are a few of my favorite photos from sessions with couples in 2010. The vast majority were engagement portraits, and the one couple that wasn't engaged has since hired me to shoot their wedding in Austin in July, 2011. Actually, my husband and I are hanging out with them tonight since they're briefly in town. I love the connections that come with this job.

Charles & Alyssa:

Kate & Greg:

Aislinn & Sean:

Jada & Jon:

Anna & Harper:

To every client who let me document part of their lives this year, thank you so much for your faith in me. I have more recaps to come, with your gorgeous faces included.

Mary

Wedding: Kate & Greg (Part 2)

2010-11-20T00:42:00.000-08:00

Here's Part 2 of Kate & Greg's October Wedding at the McKinney Cotton Mill. It's been difficult to narrow down my favorite shots from the reception; everyone had such a great time that hilarious and joyful shots couldn't help but come out of it. The reception space at the Cotton Mill is every bit as awesome as the area that Kate and Greg used for their ceremony, so that certainly helps too.

I had such a blast at this wedding. All of their friends and family in attendance were very fun, welcoming people, and I quickly felt like one of the gang. Although I was running around all day to the extent that my feet were throbbing for a good day afterward, it never felt like work. I think that is how you know you've found the right profession.

A very sweet first dance.

An absolutely delicious barbecue buffet.

Gorgeous decorations.

I loved all the florals, but especially the bridesmaids' bouquets. And the cake toppers were beyond adorable!

Father-daughter dances always pull at my heart strings. It was definitely an emotional part of my own wedding day.

A proud momma if ever I've seen one.

The Best Man and Maid of Honor's speeches were fantastic. I bet you could tell that just by Kate's reactions though!

I snagged one of the red velvet cupcakes after the cake cutting. Sinfully delicious.

The dance floor was hoppin' all. night. long.

The last dance of the evening.

And they're off!

Kate & Greg,

I can't thank you enough for letting me take part in your beautiful wedding. You took a risk on me, booking me before I'd even shot a wedding, and that trust is invaluable to me. I hope married life is treating you well!

-Mary

To see more photos from this wedding, click here.

Wedding: Kate & Greg (Part 1)

2010-11-07T22:45:00.000-08:00

On October 16th, I had the honor of photographing Kate & Greg's wedding at the Cotton Mill in McKinney, Texas. It was less than a week after my own first wedding anniversary, so I was filled with all sorts of wedding nostalgia the whole night. I think photographing a wedding is probably the perfect way to remind myself of the wonder and joy that accompanied announcing my vows to my husband with my nearest and dearest gathered round. It definitely seemed like Kate and Greg were feeling the magic on their wedding day too. I may or may not have teared up at some points while editing these photos. Hallmark commercials may or may not have a similar effect on me. Ahem. My mushiness aside, I can only claim so much responsibility for the outcome of my photos at this wedding. The love radiating from everywhere all night coupled with an awesome, awesome venue made my job a breeze. Here are the photos of Kate and her ladies getting ready, the ceremony, and their portraits. Reception photos will follow shortly!

It was such a sweet moment, watching Kate and her Dad practice their aisle walk down the hotel hallway.

Ah, those Just Married ecstatic grins!

Kate and Greg, thanks so much for letting me be a part of your day. I can't wait to show you the rest of your photos! Hope you're enjoying your newlywed bliss!

-Mary

Wedding: Kate & Greg at the McKinney Cotton Mill

2010-10-17T00:12:00.000-07:00

Today I shot a beautiful wedding at the old McKinney Cotton Mill. I think this wedding will always hold a special place in my heart. Kate was the first person to find me on the internet and (gasp!) trust me to shoot her wedding. Also, they had their reception at a venue that I may or may not have trespassed in back in high school to take photos; they hadn't yet turned it into the gorgeous wedding facility it is today. I'm in love with this old cotton mill. I flipped through the 13 gigs of photos I shot today and I'm really proud. I can't wait to show you the rest, but for now, here's three images to tide you and me over.

-Mary

Handmade Clothing by Trish Douglas

2010-10-03T21:56:00.000-07:00

Today, I had the honor to take the very first photos of my friend Trish's fashion design handiwork. She handmade the beautiful skirt seen throughout this shoot.

This next one is my favorite image I've shot lately. Love, love, love it.

I adore shooting portraits of clients, but there was something really refreshing and rejuvenating about shooting for myself and shooting for a client who isn't posing in front of the camera. I definitely need to make room in my schedule for more of this personal work.

Christina, the gorgeous model I used today, generally refuses to pose for photographers. She somehow got hijacked into modeling for me so I consider myself very lucky! She was great to work with, and I hope to do so again.

-Mary

Busy Bee

2010-08-26T23:09:00.000-07:00

All summer long, I worked 2 jobs in addition to my beloved photography gig, and also took a summer school course. In short, I've been busy, busy, busy. My summer graphic design internship with a retail company very happily became a bonafide position! Interestingly enough, I'm doing a -ton- of product photography at work. We're a very small art department and as such, all of us wear many hats. I'm obviously happy to don my photography hat whenever I can.

While I've certainly also been fitting in my own photo shoots on the weekends and the rare free weekday, my sanity has required that a few commitments fall by the wayside, like, y'know, blogging. Updates have still been going up pretty frequently on my facebook page, but my sister's blog roll reminds me everyday that it's been 2 months since you heard from me here. Whoops. While I'm still plenty busy with my new position and the new school semester, I'll try to pop in here more often.

For now, here's a little smattering of the things you've been missing!

My perfect little nephew, Will, born mid-June.

Sara & Trenton's Wedding.

The Drury Family.

Casey.

Ryan's Senior Portraits.

And here's one of the many things I've been trying to fit into my crazy schedule:

Quality time with my absurdly large dogs! Portrait of moi courtesy of a certain Casey Smith.

And while I was already up late finishing up homework and editing some photos for work, I must now head to bed.

-Mary

Sara's Senior Portraits - Sneak Peek

2010-06-26T10:03:00.001-07:00

I had a great Senior Portrait session this morning with my good friend Jason's little sister Sara. We hit up quite a few spots around Allen, including a corn field, Allen Heritage Village, and the Allen Public Library. I'm really stoked about how the shoot went. It was really hard to pick only a few favorites to put up today! Having a really pretty girl as your model definitely helps.

Orch Dorks unite! I played violin in orchestra up until my own Senior year, when the class had a scheduling conflict with Photography (as terrible a decision as that was to have to make, I'm glad I opted for Photography, aren't you? :P). Sara's planning to study Music Education after she graduates, which is pretty darn cool. Personally, I try to stay away from people who are just learning to play string instruments. They can make some truly terrible noises. Sara must be a more patient soul than me.

Sara, good luck on your Senior year! It's finally your chance to rule that enormous school. Enjoy it.

-Mary

Well, that was quick...

2010-06-16T21:56:00.000-07:00

Meet baby Will, my new nephew, born this morning. As you might recall, I posted my sister-in-law Melissa's maternity photos last week. Well, he made his appearance today about a month early, but he and momma are doing quite well besides. He's a 5 lb 7 oz cutie.

The Kidds

2010-06-10T08:50:00.000-07:00

Yay, I'm finally ready to share more of the photoshoot with adorable little Rylan and his parents! I've still included the shots from the sneak preview as some of them are my very favorites, but there are a ton of new ones as well. Enjoy!

I love that his favorite toy is a cheap bright blue ball. I'm sure the kid has any number of expensive gifts from his doting grandparents, but of course the simple pleasure of kicking a ball around wins out. :)

We started our shoot at a cute local playground to keep 1.5 year old Rylan happy. It worked well.

We wandered into a nearby patch of Indian Blanket. He picked me flowers. Apparently I offended his sweet little heart when I kept setting them down in order to shoot more pictures of him. Thus, he kept picking more for me. Aww.

Eventually, he demanded a break for Juice. Juice is very important, as you can see by this shot of him running toward his Aunt to retrieve his Juice.

Luckily, Juice Time was the perfect time to snap a few portraits of just Jared & Christelle. Er, once they warmed up to the idea anyway. Here was the response to, "Kiss on each other."

Ahh, much better:

It totally looks like Rylan is tap dancing in this next one!

I feel giddy whenever I look at these next shots. This was one of my very favorite games as a kid. I remember the sheer exuberance as "1.. 2.. 3!" was counted and I lifted off. Looks like Rylan feels much the same.

The little guy got a little cranky at the end of the shoot, but he did fantastic all around. His book about duckies calmed him down enough to let me snap one of my very favorite portraits thus far.

I had a fantastic time taking pictures of your family! It's one of my very favorite shoots I've done, actually. Chasing Rylan around with my camera was exhilarating, fun, and delightfully challenging. The experience has me all sorts of excited to shoot more family portraits in the future. Hopefully other kiddos live up to Rylan's shining example. :)

Thanks,
Mary

Melissa's Maternity Portraits - Sneak Peek

2010-06-09T23:15:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, I carpooled with my brother Tom and his wife Melissa out to the Arboretum to shoot Melissa's maternity portraits. Their first kiddo Will is due next month and I'm ridiculously excited to meet him. I can pretty well guarantee that he will be freckly, fair-skinned, relatively fair-haired, and gosh darned good lookin'. Well, I guess he won't arrive freckly, but it's sure to happen quickly enough given his double dose of freckle-genes.

Good grief, my sister-in-law is pretty.

Despite the ridiculously oppressive weather on Saturday morning, I had a good time taking pictures of you two. Can't wait to take pictures of three!

Love,
Mary

Wedding: Cesar e Raquel

2010-05-30T08:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I was lucky enough to tag along with Lynn of Lynn in Love Photo to second shoot a wedding for the sweetest Brazilian couple, Raquel & Cesar. Their huge families descended on this unassuming little venue tucked away in Lewisville and transformed it into something very classy and very gorgeous. I can't wait to get the rest of these photos ready to share with you. Here are 2 to tide you (and me) over.

Ridiculously good-looking couple, yes?

-Mary

Allison's Maternity Portraits - Sneak Peek

2010-05-24T12:47:00.000-07:00

One of my close friends is in town this week for her baby shower and for her little brother's high school graduation, so we got together during the golden hour after sunrise (and for a few hours beyond) this morning for a fun maternity shoot. Allison's just entering her third trimester and is looking too gosh darned cute. You might recognize this beautiful girl from my blog header; I took her bridal portraits almost 2 years ago. I can't believe my middle school and high school buddy is about to be a momma!

Allison, I can't wait to meet the little girl that's probably currently doing gymnastics in your tummy. With your genes, she's sure to be dangerously cute. Get your husband a large stick with which to fend off the boys.

-Mary

Kate & Greg Engagement Portraits - Sneak Peek

2010-05-23T19:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Kate and Greg met up with me over in Las Colinas. We hit up the famous Mustang Statues, as well as the Canal Riverwalk and a beautiful little park where they used to take walks earlier in their relationship. Here's a preview of their engagement photo shoot.

I love how this shoot went, and can't wait to shoot their wedding in October! October's an awesome month to get married, by the way. Their wedding day is a little less than a week after my 1 year wedding anniversary. :)

-Mary

The Kidds - Sneak Peek

2010-05-21T00:06:00.000-07:00

I can't wait to share some of the photos from today's shoot with you. I have to warn you that it contains another contender for World's Cutest Kid. Rylan is so ridiculously cute. He picked flowers for me. And my heart melted. Jared and Christelle are pretty good lookin' too, but it's hard to compete with their munchkin.

My favorite:

I had so much fun chasing this little guy around today. Many more photos where these came from, and if it weren't for that pesky need to sleep, I'd probably share them right now.

-Mary

Momma's Day

2010-05-09T00:41:00.000-07:00

Today is Mother's Day. My mom's working today (she works 12 hour shifts and generally gets up for work about the same time I go to bed) so I'll have to celebrate with her belatedly, but I figured I'd still post a brief shout out to my momma.

My mom has long been my confidante, my snuggle-buddy, and my best friend. While my husband has maybe taken over those roles most of the time these days, I know I can still count on her for any of the above. It seems like most ladies are afraid they'll end up like their mothers. I'd be A-OK with growing up to be like my mom. I could only hope to be such a compassionate, giving, loving woman. If I'm someday even half as good a mother as my own momma, I'll be doing pretty darn well.

I love you mom.

-Mary

Spring Has Sprung

2010-04-01T21:48:00.000-07:00

I'm not normally a huge fan of photographing flora, but this year, I just can't get enough of the Spring that's in the air. I wanted to capture a bit of it to take with me into the oppressive Texas summer to come. Somehow winter has seemed quite long this year; I'm enjoying Spring's breath of fresh air.

Sorry posting has been a bit slow; I'm nearing the end of my school semester and thus a wee bit busy.

Sláinte!

2010-03-18T00:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Belated St. Patrick's. 'Tis my favorite holiday of the year, but alas, I unexpectedly worked late and didn't celebrate as I usually like to (with Corned Beef, Cabbage, and Smithwick's, my favorite Irish beer). I did get in a little time on my fiddle and I'm winding down the night listening to the Chieftains, Beolach, and some of my other favorite traditional Celtic groups. These photos fit the occasion though they're from another island than Ireland.

Hope everyone had a fun and safe St. Paddy's!

-Mairi (I can rock the Gaelic spelling today, right?)

Sweet Lorraine

2010-03-03T18:41:00.000-08:00

Me.

The title refers to my beloved middle name and the title of my wedding blog, a la Nat King Cole. I can't wait until that lucky day when I marry sweet Lorraine. I'm excited to pass along my homemade veil as a "something borrowed" to a dear cousin of mine.

Ooo, Pretty Lights!

2010-03-02T20:07:00.000-08:00

When I went out toward Denton to take photos of baby Kayla and family, I made a stop at my best friend Michael's apartment. [Fun fact: Michael was one of my bridesmaids.] We went for dinner, caught up a bit, and ultimately wound up rocking out to Lady Gaga on repeat in his bedroom while he raved with fancy glowsticks and I took photos. His current lights (I have no idea what the correct term for them is) are a big step up from the cheap glow sticks and shoestrings that we hit up Walmart to snag countless times in High School. I took hundreds and hundreds of photos capturing the beautiful lights in motion but have culled them down to some of my favorites to share with you.

There's Michael himself, getting ready to make the magic happen.

Michael tried to teach me how to do this or something similar once. I failed. But not as badly as another friend did. That guy racked himself.

I love the contrast of his extremely yellow room lighting and the blue light that he's adjusting.

Hee. :P

I'm pretty sure the above photo is my favorite from our impromptu shoot. It looks like a wormhole has opened up in his room. These are all handheld and fairly long exposure, so I adore how sharp the light trail is here.

One of my favorite things about long exposure shots is the ghosts of moving people left behind.

Right back atcha, buddy.

He did a few crazy moves where he swung the string around various body parts. This was spiraling around his arm.

And that's around his head!

Aaaand I'll leave you with that nightmare inducing shot of a worn out Michael.

Michael, I demand a repeat performance whenever we next get together.
Or else.

Love,
Mary

The Snowy Day

2010-02-20T00:12:00.000-08:00

A little over a week ago, we had record-breaking snowfall here in North Texas. If I recall correctly, there were 12+ inches recorded in some areas, though I'd say we had somewhere around 8 inches in our yard. Crazy, right?

Naturally, I snapped a bunch of photos since all of the classes I had pulled an all-nighter for were canceled. Yaaay. In my ridiculously sleep deprived state, I reverted to the age of 8 and ran around all day in the snow with my dogs.

This was one of the very first pictures I took of the snow. That's at roughly 6 AM when I finally opened the blinds after staying up all night and was shocked to see a thick blanket of snow on the ground. Here in Texas, it's crazy to see snow gathering on the concrete. That's just something that doesn't happen. Ice, sure, but snow? Never.

The above was actually shot with my husband's point and shoot. I wanted to make sure I wouldn't bust my butt while carrying my more expensive DSLR, just in case there was indeed a layer of ice under the purty snow.

A little later, I ventured out with my own camera in tow. The juxtaposition of the *snow* and our Jetta's Texas plates makes me smile. You can tell this was still pretty early on. By the day's end, the whole hood had several inches of snow on top.

We have way more holly bushes in our yard than we know what to do with. This is the friendliest holly that we have. The rest are the extra-spiny bushes of dooooom that wreak havoc on your feet if you step on their leaves barefoot (and I like to wander around my yard barefoot, thankyouverymuch). They're green and pretty all year long (and don't the berries look superb with a li'l spattering of snow?) but I have a bit of a vendetta against my holly army.

As previously mentioned, I spent a vast portion of the day running around outside with my dogs. Our 2 great danes had an absolute blast out in that cold, wet, white stuff. I wish we had it more often for them to enjoy.

That's Trajan, in all his floppity-eared goodness, having a good romp. He's a 1.5 year old blue dane. He's named for the Roman Emperor, so no, it's not a misspelling of "Trojan", as the vet's office always seems to the think. ;)

*snort* The drooool! Trajan almost never drools, so it totally cracks me up every time I see this shot.

The drool strikes again! That facial expression is so ridiculous.

Here's Gus (short for Augustus), our 10-month-old fawn dane. Despite being younger and far more petite than Trajan, he's definitely the dominate of the two. He has been from day 1.

I love taking action shots of my pups. They definitely challenge me, with how quickly they gallop about the yard.

Snow om nom nom nom.

I forget whether these were early morning rabbit tracks or tracks from my dogs. Hm. The shape makes me think rabbit, but I'm not sure.

I'll close with this shot that my husband took with his camera of Trajan and me at about 1 AM. Yup, despite my all-nighter, I stayed up aaall day to make the most of the snow day. I know folks from places further north get sick of the snow, but it's such a novelty here that I can't help but get all giddy about it!

-Mary

P.S. Here's a video of Trajan & Gus romping around together. Calypso the Kitty makes a brief appearance as well.

(If you're reading this via RSS feed, click over to see the video!)

Marshall, Paige & Baby Kayla

2010-02-15T00:29:00.000-08:00

As previously promised, I have pictures of an incredibly adorable baby for you today. Remember this little cutie pie?

She's back! I joined her and her parents Marshall & Paige at their house out near Denton on a particularly cold and dreary day last month. Not wanting to subject little Kayla (not to mention the rest of us) to the icky weather outside, we took photos in their living room and in her nursery instead. Despite the last minute change in plans, I'm so in love with the photos from this shoot.

Kayla's bright blue eyes just make me melt.

Oh, precious little baby toes!

What a handsome family!

Dad tried to get creative with the posing for this next shot.

It obviously resulted in a Very Sad baby. Their reaction to the Very Sad baby leads me to nominate them for Parents of the Year!

I don't think Kayla much appreciated their laughing at her misery. :P

Tummy time resulted in some very cute shots. I adore the one above. I hear she just rolled over on her own for the first time yesterday!

Kayla kept giving me the most intense stares. We're pretty sure she has a future in fashion modeling. She's got haughty down pat.

Like Father, like Daughter.

Awwww. Finally caught a wee smile.

While Kayla went down for a brief nap, I snagged some photos of the other family members. This is Juno. Juno seems so petite compared to my big Great Dane goobers... but I suppose all dogs do, with few exceptions.

And here's Loki. Loki is one of the best cat names ever. In case you don't know, Loki is something along the lines of the Norse god of mischief and trickery. Does that sound like any cats you know? Maybe all of them?

I also got a couple shots of Kayla sleeping in her crib, but my shutter click was coming dangerously close to waking her up, so I decided to leave her be.

It was the perfect opportunity to get some shots of just Mom 'n' Dad. Awwww.

Kayla came back out after her nap for some cute just-woken-up shots, like so:

Marshall and Paige, y'all have one of the cutest babies I've ever met. I hear this whole baby thing goes by quickly, so enjoy her now and always. I know you will.

-Mary

Kristi's Bridal Portraits

2010-02-02T17:04:00.000-08:00

2 weekends ago, Kristi and I met up at the Adriatica in McKinney for her bridal portraits. If you've followed the blog for a little bit, you've seen Kristi before. I shot her engagement portraits last summer.

She gave up on hiding her dress from her husband-to-be a while back, so I have permission to share her portraits with you before her wedding later this month! I'm glad I'm not the only one that failed to follow that tradition; my husband actually helped me get ready for my bridal portraits 6 months before our wedding (He's the one who lent me his airsoft assault rifle and bought me some aviators and a cigar so I could have some crazy gangster bridals. Because I'm ridiculous).

I was ridiculously excited that Kristi decided on the Adriatica for our shoot. For those who don't know, the Adriatica is a recreated Croatian village in McKinney that's still under construction. The homes there cost approximately a bazillion dollars, the tile-roofed shops, bell tower and cobblestone streets are gorgeous, and all-around, I think it's one of the best local venues for bridals. The weather wasn't 100% cooperative that day (though the sun did finally come out and provide a gorgeous sunset at the very end!) but the happy bride more than made up for the grumpy winter storm-clouds.

I'm forever scrambling onto things with camera in hand in order to catch a shot I have in mind, like the shot below. In this case, I climbed onto a wall with a 20 foot drop to my left. Whee! (Also, doesn't her bouquet photograph beautifully? From the photos, it's especially hard to believe that those pink & yellow roses are silk!)

One of my very favorite bridal fashion trends is colorful shoes. I absolutely love Kristi's purple peep-toe pumps. Say that 5 times fast.

I think the above shot would look awesome printed large and hung prominently on the wall. I'm in love with the colorful lights and Kristi is totally bringin' the fierceness.

The bad weather brought with it some fortuitous wind. I love all the photos that captured her hair and veil floating in the wind.

Kristi brought along a friend as well as her mom (though mom wisely stayed warm in the car the whole time), which is something I definitely recommend. Kristi's buddy helpfully doubled as hair stylist, veil fixer, and stuff holder.

And then the sun came out! Yaaay. I love this moment I caught between poses as Kristi fixed the gorgeous lace overlay on her gown.

The following image requires a brief explanation. Kristi and I both went to the same college. We're "The Comets". Our very.. creative hand sign dealimabob is "the whoosh". Because.. comets.. whoosh. Yes. See below for an example of "the whoosh." It's exciting. :P

We finally found a dry spot for Kristi to let down her train. Gorgeous, yes?

Yay, wind!

That evening definitely had one of the prettiest sunsets I've seen all winter. How lucky!

I have definite envy for Kristi's deep blue eyes.

Kristi, I had a great time freezing my butt off with you! I'm so excited for you for your quickly approaching wedding. I know you'll have an amazing wedding day, and an amazing marriage to follow.

-Mary

Baby Kayla

2010-01-31T01:01:00.000-08:00

Here's a peek at something coming soon. I took photos of an incredibly adorable 3-month-old little girl today, and can't wait to show you the rest!

TJ, Mary & Elise

2010-01-20T00:32:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, I met up with my cousin TJ and his wife and daughter at the square in downtown McKinney. If you've followed any of my wedding planning adventures, all of them should look familiar. TJ played guitar for our ceremony processional, Elise was my flowergirl, and Mary was all sorts of helpful throughout, including accompanying me on my bridal portraits and helping with set-up on the day of.

We had originally planned to shoot some family photos for their 2009 Christmas card, but weather and other unforeseen circumstances delayed our shoot until the new year. Ah well, family photos are great at any time of year!

Cute family, or cutest family ever?

I realize I'm biased, but Elise was definitely the cutest flowergirl I've ever encountered. She just turned 5 a few months ago. I attended her birthday party that had animatronic dinosaurs and pie. Girl after my own heart.

It makes me so happy seeing my cousin with his daughter.

Love, love, love that bench!

There's a whole lot of laughing in this family.

Ha! Such a classic facial expression here. "Do Not Want" seems to be its message.

Elise comes by her silliness quite naturally.

This photo makes me smile not only for the sweet look from momma to daughter, but also because I know that Elise's mischievous grin is a prelude to her trying to warm her hands inside her mom's collar.

The love in their relationship is so evident. There are a few couples in my life that inspire my husband and I in our own relationship, and they are definitely among them.

Oh, to be 5 again.

Yup. Silliness abounding. Do you like TJ's James Dean impersonation? Apparently Elise does!

I giggle every time I flip back and forth between these 2 photos. Thinking about being silly, BEING SILLY, thinking about being silly, BEING SILLY. I could do it all day.

TJ & Mary (and Elise of course!) I had a fantastic time wandering around the square with you and then dinner was lovely as well. See? I'm true to my word. No scandalous photos anywhere. I'll see you all soon, with about a hundred more photos in tow.

Love,
Mary

Little Miss Elise

2010-01-18T14:12:00.000-08:00

Just a hint of things to come, from this weekend's shoot with my very own flowergirl. : )

I can't wait to show you the rest!

-Mary

Coffee + Cody

2010-01-12T16:49:00.000-08:00

I met "Coffee" when we worked at Starbucks together. Her first name is actually Melissa, but we already had about 4 Melissas working at the store, and with a surname like Coffee when you work at a coffee shop, it was an inevitable nickname. She married Cody the weekend before my husband and me, and now has a baby girl on the way.

That baby girl is due any day now, and for that matter, she hasn't posted on facebook in almost a day, so the baby could've already arrived! Oh, nope. She just posted and I presume something like that would've been mentioned.

We met up about a week ago for some last minute maternity photos of the beautiful Momma-to-be, and some with Dad as well.

They happened to pick one of the sunniest days I've seen all winter. It was still right around the freezing point though, so I don't know how they were surviving without jackets! I was definitely all bundled up.

I wanted to get some profile shots of Coffee's sweet pregnant tummy when baby started throwing a fit! I could literally see the fists shooting out while I was looking through my lens. That's one feisty girl you two have coming your way.

So sweet. Melissa was very concerned about whether or not Cody was smiling "weird", but I think the boy did just fine.

There's the bamboo thicket popping up again. I can't help that it's one of the only bits of greenery around in January!

Time for some solo shots of miss Coffee.

Favorite shot, right up there. The colors, the leaf, the light, and best of all, that beautiful belly.

I know their daughter will one day go, "Ewwww, muuushy" at the sight of this photo. Or maybe that was just my weird habit regarding any signs of affection.

The idea here was for Coffee to make a heart with her hands although it wound up as more of a triangle. I still think it's adorable with their hands around baby's home (but not for much longer!).

I know these two are going to make great parents.

The best of luck to both of you with the birth and beyond. That little girl is going to change your lives in all the best ways!

-Mary

Jason

2010-01-07T20:19:00.000-08:00

Shortly after Christmas, I met up with one of my best friends so that he could fill the frame he had bought his mom for Christmas. We focused on getting some headshots and such that mom would like, but I also naturally caught a lot of goofy expressions and poses, given that Jason and I are very close friends. We laugh a lot in each others' company, so there was no shortage of that going on. While I wouldn't for most clients (never fear!), I've included a few of the goofy photos because well, Jason's my buddy, and I can. Right, Jason?

We started out in this random bamboo patch in my neighborhood which someone very intelligently planted about 10 years ago. Naturally it's a forest now, with how invasive a species it is. Some of the photos not included here feature Jason trying to sit in that gap in the fence and getting stuck. I did do my duty as a friend and post it on facebook for all the world to see though. ;)

A very classic Jason expression. Skeptical Jason is skeptical.

I can't wait for Spring to bring us back our foliage (and warmth!) but the bare limbs are at least a nice neutral backdrop.

I must admit I prefer colorful backdrops like this big grassy bush that mostly stays green through the winter months.

Uh oh. Jason got himself trapped again.

I think he looks quite dashing with mini-antlers! Definitely no silliness on this photo shoot. No silliness at all.

Jason's a very very talented violist. I'm a violinist so naturally prejudiced against his instrument (I assure you, it's a well established orchestra rivalry), but he's one of the few violists I know who can make his instrument sound absolutely beautiful.

Despite the fact that his fingers were too cold to feel the strings, he still played me a nice little ditty. I cringed a bit for the sake of his instrument, being out in weather like that, but I'm glad Jason let it out to play.

I love the scrolls on string instruments. Just a detail I feel great affection for after my years of playing.

Yet another classic look from Jason. Lord knows what I said or did to warrant this one!

Thaaat's better. I love how the yellow wall makes the color of his eyes pop! This one was actually the winner for mom's frame.

The white wall is nice as well. That was actually a bit of painted plywood covering up the entrance to a historical home currently being renovated in Allen's Heritage Village.

I had to assure Jason that I'd watch out for zombies and other creepy crawlies coming at him from inside this decrepit barn. I'm proud to say he made it out alive.

That barn actually sits up on these bright red risers. Seemed like a good opportunity to capture Jason's footwear of choice. He normally sports fancy pumas, actually, but didn't want to get 'em all muddy. That's what converse are good for. Nevermind how ridiculously clean his look.

We happened across a tree with bizarre bright white berries. This photo is in the running for my favorites from the session.

And then Jason had to take a beautiful, serious moment and do.. this. Love you, Jason.

We found a broom out among the old houses which could only result in one thing: Harry Potter imitations. Jason seems to be a pretty natural seeker.

Sometimes the moments between poses are my favorites. I love this shot of Jason mid-laugh. It's just so natural and so.. him.

I'll leave you with this intense stare from a handsome devil. Ladies, he's single.

-Mary

Sandra & Andrew

2010-01-06T12:11:00.000-08:00

In late September, I had the pleasure and the honor to second shoot with my own wedding photographer, Jenna Cole. I tagged along on quite possibly one of the coolest engagement sessions I've seen. It was a fun challenge bouncing around trying to stay out of Jenna's shots and also trying to catch those brief moments when Sandra & Andrew looked my way - or when they didn't, but it made a great shot anyway.

We met up initially at the Shops at Legacy in Plano. Andrew wasn't too keen on this whole photo shoot idea at first, but he quickly warmed up to the camera. Sandra's incredibly natural in her poses, so I think it'd be hard not to follow her lead.

Naturally, Jenna was directing the shoot. She's a big fan of shots of her subjects walking toward her and having seen the results from my own wedding day and on this shoot, it's a tactic I'm going to have to steal. The capture of movement is beautiful, as is the lack of carefully thought out posing. I like photographing people as they are.

I'm so jealous of Sandra's natural smile for the camera. I can't smile on command to save my soul.

Here's Jenna in action, directing them to do something that was apparently rather funny.

I could just eat up that beautiful green bokeh back there. The light that day was nothing short of magical. Also, Sandra & Andrew, you're so cute together that it hurts.

Awwwww!

This shot is just the culmination of everything great about this shoot. A beautiful couple, amazing light, natural posing. I love it.

Looking at these photos just makes me giddy. I hope it has the same effect for the happy couple. :)

Gotta love Andrew's fancy kicks.

After we finished up at the Shops at Legacy, we carpooled over to the State Fair of Texas. Yes! It's a photographic opportunity that comes but once a year and I'm so glad I got to take advantage of that in '09. Who wants to make it happen in 2010? The colorful lights and displays of the fair make aaaawesome backdrops.

As the good little Texas girl I am, there's just something so right about photos from the fair. I don't even like cotton candy, but seeing it hanging there in State Fair bags makes me so happy. The sugary sweetness of that kiss seems to match. ;)

Big Tex is no misnomer for the mascot of the fair. He's so big I couldn't get all of him in the frame!

There are a number of pretty little garden areas sprinkled about the fair grounds. A copse of bamboo made a great background for some solo portraits. Sandra, you are absolutely gorgeous. I still can't get over that smile.

I wanted to use the nearby mammoth statue as a backdrop (you'd better believe my nerdy husband and I would be all over that - oh wait, we were on our first dating anniversary trip to the Science Place) but the more romantic swan shaped paddleboats worked nicely too. I love their glowing backlit halos!

An Autumn session just isn't complete without a trip to the pumpkin patch!

And a trip to the fair definitely isn't complete without playing some games statistically stacked against you, purchased from angry-looking carnies.

That being said, there is the odd happy carnie here or there, like the one that let us pretend to use this game for the sake of some photos. I like how intense Andrew was about the game (check out that tongue!) even though it wasn't turned on.

And then. And then! My very favorite. The carousel.

I must have shot at least 70 photos of them flying by on the carousel. With the fleeting light and the zooming ride, I was hard-pressed to get that perfect shot. And then I caught them mid-kiss as they came around the bend. Ah, I love it!

As twilight quickly descended, we sought out the spotlights of the midway. The cotton candy booth was revisited for the sake of more photos.

Without the proper lighting equipment, it's difficult to get good photos after sunset, but the fair provided light a-plenty. The glow of the rides is beautiful both in the background and on the couple. I dig that flare on the right!

There's a good Texan gentleman if ever I've seen one. I think they've practiced that dip. I vote for a repeat at the altar in April!

Thanks are in order to Sandra and Andrew, and most certainly also Jenna for all allowing me to tag along on this shoot. It was an incredible experience and I had an absolute blast. Gracias to all.

-Mary

Kristi & Jared

2010-01-05T22:08:00.000-08:00

I went to high school with Kristi & Jared. I sat next to Kristi in our graphic design class and was also involved in an art organization with her. She's a very talented artist, so I was honored when she inquired as to whether I'd be interested in shooting their engagement portraits. Unequivocally, absolutely, yes! I shot these last June (good grief, time flies!). These were my very first engagement portraits, as well as my very first couples shoot. It was here that I determined that I really love having two people in front of my lens.

We started our shoot at Chestnut Square in McKinney; their wedding venue. I'd say we met "bright and early", but while it was decidedly early, the sun was hiding behind thick threatening rain clouds that day. It made for some very nice diffused light until the rain eventually cut our shoot short.

Here they are on the patio of the cute little chapel where they'll wed. In the middle of our current January cold snap, I'm yearning for that lush vegetation behind them.

These two crack me up. They were very excited about the Taylor House, as that's their surname, and surname-to-be.

There are period reenactors and the like at Chestnut Square. I believe this stump is maybe used for story telling. If it's not, it should be! It appears to be a comfy seat at the very least.

Also unlike my more recent shoots, Kristi & Jared didn't need to bundle up in many layers and boots. It was, after all, early summer in Texas, so Kristi could properly show off her sweet little rose tattoo.

This double-sided bench swing was serious fun, as Jared demonstrates. Sadly, I didn't get a turn.

Just begging for some "Chapel of Love" lyrics right here. Bells will ring, the sun will shine (whoa-whoa-whoa). Er, nevermind that it's a school bell and not a church bell.

I love Kristi's sweet and simple solitaire. It's very similar to mine with its kite setting.

We found an exposed light bulb on one patio which, lo and behold, turned on with a simple pull of a chain. I'm completely enamored with the glow it cast on them and their surroundings.

See? Cloudy skies are a-ok. The diffused light is beautiful. As are these two lovebirds.

Aww, pretty sure that's what we call love.

The infamous "they" say never to center your subject, but I can't resist a little intentional architectural symmetry. I like to think that light bulb is representing the good idea they had to get married, cartoon style.

The above is probably my favorite shot of that day. It gives me chills!

The reception house at Chestnut Square has a neat Texas-y door that I wanted to incorporate, but Jared was just too darn tall, so I made him squat down to Kristi's eye level. I think she liked the change in scenery.

I love that we decided to use their wedding venue for their engagement portraits. I can't wait to see photos of them in fancier attire with the same backdrops.

Racing the rain, we made our way a few blocks over to old downtown McKinney. It's a fun few blocks of antique shops, restaurants, boutiques, and quirky little alleys.

Here they are on the stoop of someone's shopfront. It was still very early and most of the shops don't open until the shopkeeper feels like making it into work, so there was no one around to chase us off.

We ducked down an alley and found this fun sign. In my head I read it as, "Kristi & Jared & other classy stuff." These two are definitely classy stuff.

Usually the guy just doesn't get his time in the limelight when it comes to photo shoots. There you go, Jared.

Aaand now you're free to go hide behind Kristi again.

As we were walking down an alley, we happened across an entrance into this bizarre courtyard absolutely covered in ivy (and trash and AC units and other exciting things).

I love the contrast of the natural and industrial backdrop.

Shooting through the ivy cast an interesting green tint here.

They seem happy to finally be released from the jungle of ivy and mud. I love the sense of movement as I caught them unawares here.

I can guarantee that I'll be using this alleyway door again. I love the colors, the texture, and truly everything about it.

Now if only I can remember which of the many alleys it lives in...

I think this is a very nice "mom" shot. Well, to be fair, the other versions I have where they're smiling bigger might make mom happier, but I'm not their mom and this is my blog. So there.

I think Kristi was pretty stoked about being taller than Jared. It's a rare and exciting occasion!

I want that clock back there in my own home. Actually, there are a lot of quirky things in downtown McKinney that I'd love to call my own. Like a giant statue of a chicken. And the staircase in this next photo.

Jared & Kristi, thanks for giving a newbie photographer a chance last summer. You helped me create some beautiful images at the very start of my dive into this crazy business, and I can't thank you enough for the boost to my portfolio, and for the boost to my confidence as well.

Your wedding is now fast approaching, and I wish you both all the best on your wedding day, and even more importantly, in your life beyond the vows.

-Mary

Charles & Alyssa

2010-01-05T01:02:00.000-08:00

There are a few photo shoots from 2009 that I need to properly introduce on my precious new photo blog, but I want to kick off 2010 with one of my favorite shoots to date, and the first I've shot this year.

Charles and I have been friends of the primarily internet persuasion for a long, long time. I think I was about 13 when we first started chatting. I've known him through his high school years, as well as college and now graduate school, so I feel I have the right to say that he's found someone very special in Alyssa. It's official. I approve.

The above came with one of the very first shutter-clicks of the day. It's always a good sign when the magic happens so quickly.

We met up at the (out of service) railroad tracks in Allen. They both brought their fierce posing skills in great supply. I love the American Gothic vibe coming from this photo!

What a handsome couple!

In those first three photos, I had them standing perilously on a railroad bridge about 30 feet up in the air, with certain death (or at least a lot of pain) waiting between each railroad tie. Of course, I was very intelligently maneuvering around on the rails while looking through the lens. I'm amazed we all made it out unscathed. We sought refuge under the bridge for a few shots.

D'awwww. So cute. How could I not approve when they so clearly make each other happy?!

I love catching those moments when they're not really posing. The genuine eskimo kisses are adorable.

Everyone needs a nice solo headshot! Although I didn't prompt them to do so, I actually have a very nice smiling and non-smiling shot of each.

Thus far, I've failed to mention that it was at the highest, about 35°F during the whole photo shoot. They were troopers. We basically shot until my hands were shaking too much to continue.

Here's the aforementioned incredibly unsafe bridge. Apparently traversing it requires intense concentration. Note that Charles is rocking his school colors between photos. That's where they met!

These concrete pillars were just begging for some intentionally cheesy senior portrait-esque poses. I dig it. Do you dig it?

The Charles in his natural environment.

Alyssa, you're so beautiful. And have I mentioned that you're cute? Grade-A ridiculously cute, at that.

We didn't get to explore the area on and around the railroad tracks quite as much as I had planned, because between photos, I looked over and saw a rather haggard looking man walking toward us out of the woods. It was a little disconcerting to say the least. Many of the photos from that area were taken as we "ran" away from him. See, we quickly put a creek and the perilous bridge between him and us, buying us a little time, but he kept on comin' toward us. You can see him sneaking up on them in the background of the above photo. I'm sure he was totally harmless, but I didn't much feel like having my camera stolen that day, so we skedaddled onto a new location. We actually deduced that he was a trucker passing through when we saw an 18-wheeler parked on the other side of the creek. I'm still not sure why he was wandering through the woods in near-freezing weather at 8 am though.

That's alright though. As soon as we pulled into our next location, I spotted this amazing tree all decked out in berries. Don't they complement Alyssa's beautiful jacket so well?

I love all of the photos taken in front of that tree so much. It's nearly impossible to narrow it down to just these two!

Such a tender moment captured here.

And here as well. They have such a natural way about them in front of the camera.

We plucked a dandelion for wishes and good luck and all those fun things. :)

I'm not sure whether Charles is attempting to eat the dandelion, or just expressing surprise at the seed making its way onto his jacket. Either way, it cracks me up!

He can be serious too though, on the cold, cold ground. Thanks for chilling yourselves to the bone for me guys!

I'll leave you with the following triptych. If this series of photos doesn't warm your heart, I'm not sure what will.

Alyssa & Charles, I had a fabulous time and I have no doubt that a number of photos from this shoot will be in my portfolio for years to come. Let's do it again sometime!