Hi friends! Picture this: a snowy day at the historic Vanderbilt mansion in Hyde Park, New York. It's the day after Valentine's - a time when love is still thick in the air. Now, add an adorable couple eagerly awaiting their bundle of joy, and their cute dog, wagging its tail in excitement. Sounds like a scene from a movie, doesn&rsquo;t it? But guess what? That was my reality last week, and boy, was it a sight to behold!
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You know me, always with a camera in hand, ready to freeze these precious moments in time. And this photo shoot? It was one for the books. The mansion provided the perfect backdrop - it's rich history seeming to add an extra layer of depth to the photos. The snow was falling softly, creating a blanket of white that contrasted beautifully with the couple's vibrant winter attire. Have you ever seen something so aesthetically pleasing?
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Now, let&rsquo;s talk about the dog. This fluffy ball of joy was the show-stealer, honestly. It seemed to understand that its humans were about to welcome a new member to the family. The way it nuzzled up to the bump, you could almost hear it promising to be the baby's best buddy. And doesn't that just melt your heart?
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These moments are why I do what I do. I've been in this game for years now, and the thrill of capturing raw, authentic emotions never gets old. It's all about finding the beauty in everything, right? Like how the couple's laughter echoed through the silent snowfall, or how their hands instinctively found each other in every frame. Moments like these are magic, pure and simple.
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And in a world where things are changing faster than we can keep up, it's more important than ever to hold on to these snippets of joy. Speaking of changes, have you noticed the rising trend of including pets in maternity shoots? It's a wonderful way to capture the complete family picture, don't you think?
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To wrap things up, I just want to say this: every photo shoot, every couple, every bouncing dog brings with it a unique story. And being able to share these stories with you? That's the best part of my job. So, here's to more love, more laughter, and yes, more adorable pups. After all, who doesn't need a little more cuteness in their lives?

A Winter Maternity Photo Shoot In Beautiful Hyde Park - Upstate New York

Hello there! I'm excited to guide you today on how to prepare for a successful family portrait session. It's always a delight being part of these special moments, capturing the warmth, love, and laughter that define your family. Here are a few tips to help you get ready for an enjoyable photo shoot.Firstly, let's talk about outfit choices. Coordination is key, but that doesn't mean everyone has to wear matching attires. Rather, aim for a harmonious blend of colors and styles that reflect your family's unique personality. Comfort is essential too, so choose outfits that make you feel good and at ease.Selecting the perfect location is another vital aspect. Whether it's your cozy living room, a favorite park, or a scenic beach, the location should resonate with your family's interests and aesthetic. Don't hesitate to think outside the box – unusual or meaningful locations can make the photos even more special.Now, onto posing ideas. Remember, the aim is to capture authentic moments, so keep it natural. Encourage interaction – hugging, holding hands, or simply laughing together. Don't worry about looking perfect; the most cherished photos often capture the fun and spontaneous moments.Engaging children during the session can seem challenging, but it doesn't have to be. Turn the shoot into a fun game or adventure. Let them play, explore, and be themselves. Their genuine smiles and innocent expressions will add a magical touch to the photos.Lastly, remember to relax and enjoy the process. A family portrait session is about more than just taking beautiful photos; it's about creating and capturing memories together. Approach it with a sense of excitement and joy, and you'll love the outcome.I'm here to guide and support you every step of the way, ensuring a fun and rewarding experience. So, let's embark on this adventure together and create beautiful family portraits that you'll treasure for years to come.

Preparing for the Perfect Family Portrait Session

As a photographer, I've always been drawn to capturing the beauty and love that unfolds at wedding venues. This charm is perhaps most vivid in the quaint town of Highland, NY. Here are my top 5 wedding venues in Highland, NY, handpicked for their unique allure.
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First on my list is the stunning <a href="https://www.wwvacay.com/homes/vineyard-view-estate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vineyard View Estate</a>. Set amidst lush vineyards with a breathtaking view of the Hudson River, it offers a serene and romantic backdrop for your special day. The best time to tie the knot at this venue is the late summer or early autumn when the grapes are ripe and the vineyards are in full bloom. The venue is perfect for medium to large weddings with an outdoor theme.
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Next, we have the <a href="https://stoneoaktreefarm.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stone Oak Tree Farm</a>. This family-run farm, with its vast fields and towering oak trees, is the embodiment of rustic charm. Ideal for outdoor weddings, the farm's open space can accommodate large gatherings effortlessly. Springtime, when the farm is green and full of life, is the best time to get married here.
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Thirdly, the <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/british-columbia/highland-road-and-panhandle-trail" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Highland Rail Trail Park</a> offers a unique and intimate setting for those looking for something a little different. The park, with its picturesque trails and serene surroundings, is perfect for small, intimate weddings or elopements. The autumn months, with the changing colors of the foliage, provide an enchanting backdrop for your vows.
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Fourth on the list is <a href="https://www.highlandschateau.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Chateau</a>. This elegant venue, with its grand ballrooms and beautifully manicured gardens, is the epitome of opulence. Best suited for lavish, indoor weddings, The Chateau offers a timeless backdrop that exudes sophistication. Winter weddings here are magical, with the venue decorated to reflect the season's sparkle.
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Lastly, but by no means least, is the <a href="https://www.highlandpacificgolf.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Highland Country Barn</a>. This charming venue, with its rustic barn and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, offers a warm and cozy setting for your special day. Ideal for moderate-sized weddings with a country theme, the barn is particularly beautiful in the late summer, when the surrounding fields are golden.
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These venues, each with their unique charm, offer a beautiful setting to say 'I do'. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of a country barn, the opulence of a grand chateau, or the natural beauty of a vineyard or park, Highland, NY has something to offer everyone. Remember, the venue you choose will set the tone for your wedding, so choose a place that speaks to your heart. After all, your wedding day is an expression of your love story, and every love story is beautiful in its own way.

Top 5 Wedding Venues in Highland, NY: A Personal Guide

There's something to be said about the significance of a professional photographer at your wedding. As someone who's been behind the lens for numerous "I do's", I can tell you, it's much more than just pressing a button. Allow me to share my thoughts on why investing in a professional wedding photographer is so essential. Firstly, let's talk about the product - the photos. With a professional, you're getting someone who knows how to capture those fleeting moments in a way that tells your story. It's not just about taking pretty pictures. It's about the way I compose, the light I chase, and the moments I anticipate. A professional photographer brings a level of expertise and attention to detail that can turn a simple snapshot into a cherished memory. Not to mention, we have the right equipment and know-how to ensure we get the shots, no matter the lighting or weather condition. But it's not just about the photos; it's about the experience. I&rsquo;m not just there to take pictures; I&rsquo;m there to help you feel comfortable, to guide you into poses that feel natural and look amazing. One of the most vital parts of my job is to put people at ease. I understand that not everyone feels comfortable in front of a camera. Trust me, I get it. That's why I always aim to create a relaxed and enjoyable environment. I want you to forget about the camera and just be yourself. I&rsquo;ve been told that I have a knack for getting people to open up. Maybe it's because I'm a good listener, a trait I inherited from my mother. Or perhaps it's because I see the beauty in everything and everyone, which encourages people to let their guard down. Whatever the reason, it allows me to capture genuine emotions and reactions, which truly is the essence of great wedding photography. In the end, your wedding day is a whirlwind of emotions, moments, and memories. You're going to want someone who can capture it all - the laughter, the tears, the quiet moments, the loud ones, and everything in between. You're going to want someone who can put you at ease, make you laugh, and maybe even become a friend. As a professional wedding photographer, that's what I bring to the table. It might seem like a big investment now, but I promise you, years down the line when you're looking back at your photos, you'll see it was worth every penny.

The True Significance of a Professional Wedding Photographer

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Our Full Day Wedding Photography Package offers 8 hours of comprehensive coverage, capturing every moment of your special day with a professional photographer. From getting ready to the first dance, we’ll document all the love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. After the wedding, you'll receive a beautiful, fully-edited online gallery, making it easy to relive every detail and share with family and friends. This package provides everything you need to ensure your day is perfectly preserved in timeless images.

Full Day Wedding Photography (8 Hours)

Our Elopement &amp; Micro Wedding Photography Package offers 4 hours of personalized coverage, perfect for capturing the intimate moments of your small celebration. With one dedicated photographer, we’ll focus on the essence of your day, from vows to the final toast. Afterward, you'll receive a stunning online gallery with all your beautifully edited images, making it easy to revisit and share your memories. This package is ideal for couples seeking a relaxed yet meaningful photography experience.

Elopement & Micro Wedding Photography (4 Hours)

Our Engagement Session package includes 1 hour of photography with a dedicated photographer, perfect for capturing the excitement and connection before your big day. Whether you want to showcase your love in a scenic outdoor setting or a more personal location, we’ll make sure to highlight your unique style. After the session, you'll receive a fully edited online gallery of your best images, ready to share with loved ones and use for save-the-dates or other wedding materials.

Engagement Session

I'm starting to grow my business and do between $500-$1000 a month in bookings.

Core Plan

green - C,B

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You will find the about page from my existing website between the “” below. You can use this section primarily for tone of voice and style as opposed to content. Make sure that all references to the self are in the first person singular, as I am the only photographer on my team. Please also ensure that there are no references to “our team” or “our photographer”. Instead, all writing should be coming directly from me.

"I was born of a southern hairdresser who was dealt a rough hand after a third divorce. She spent enough time talking for me to become a great listener. I’m focused under pressure, always. I’ve spent my life trying to figure out where I belong. I see the beauty in everything, so I seek adventure and require movement. I scowl when I’m thoughtful. You can find me reading fantasy novels to escape, so ask me about wizards. Calm, warm, kind, and patient are the easiest descriptors of me, but allow me the space to be goofy and it will unfold. I collect books of poetry. I have a hard time finding a dog that doesn’t want to be best buddies. I fight myself to be productive, so I know how to push for you, because I have to."

Blog

A Winter Maternity Photo Shoot In Beautiful Hyde Park - Upstate New York

Preparing for the Perfect Family Portrait Session

Top 5 Wedding Venues in Highland, NY: A Personal Guide

The True Significance of a Professional Wedding Photographer