Beautiful Kona | Wilmington Children's Photographer

The plan was for a birthday session to celebrate Kona's 1st birthday. But as life would have it, we just weren't able to get it done until now - 3 months after her 1st birthday. I don't think Kona minds, though. She was a little slow to warm, cried if I touched her, and cried every time mom and dad put her in a new spot, so I was a little worried I wouldn't get any smiles. Mom and dad assured me she would loosen up, and after a bit of a cardio workout from mom, I saw they were correct. Kona was beaming!

The family image on the right - dad sat down with Kona - and she laid her sweet head on his chest - and what a perfect spot for a family shot. Melts my heart. This little girl is so obviously loved.
I loved seeing Kona again. And if you recognize the name - you are right - here is her newborn session: http://danajacksonphotography.blogspot.com/2009/06/celebrating-kona-newborn-photographer.html

Mother + Daugher = FUN | Wilmington, NC Photographer

I seriously had a very hard time figuring out what to show from this session. I could have picked 15 more and still not picked all my favorites. Meet Kate and her mom. They live in Ohio - and Kate is thinking about making some career changes - maybe Navy, maybe Coast Guard - either way - there are changes in the air. Kate grew up spending her summers in Carolina Beach with her grandparents - and it seemed the logical place for a little getaway with her mom. I couldn't have been happier that she picked me as her photographer!

There was so much silliness and laughter.
It was early in the morning - and nothing was open at the boardwalk, yet - but we were lucky enough to run into a Wheelfun Rental http://www.wheelfunrentals.com/Content/Home.aspx employee - so we asked if we could borrow a surrey and play for a bit!
But seriously - these two women are B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L - I could have photographed them all day!
Oh, and can you believe at one point during the session, Kate said, "I'm sorry - we're not very fun to photograph." Ummmm - crazy fun! Thanks for choosing me - I hope you both had a fabulous weekend!

Married 60 Years | Carolina Beach Family Photographer

I can't even imagine what 60 years of marriage must feel like. The life they have shared together, the love, the tears, the adventure - it's almost too for my brain to comprehend. The love between this family is unquestionable - I'm honored to have spent even 1 hr with them.

I wonder, as they watched their grown children "play" on the rocks - if they were able to see them as the adults they are now - or if they just have visions of them at 9, 7, and 4 - while on their vacations at Carolina Beach. Sweet, nonetheless.

Love.celebrated | Wilmington, NC photographer

Two people that are madly in love + an amazing network of family and friends + the most gorgeous weather ever + a wine vineyard = the most beautiful wedding ever. Now, I'm not a wedding photographer, so don't get any ideas, but when your best friend gets married, you can't NOT have your camera ready.

Tiffany and Dade - I'm so happy for you and really - those words do so little to describe how really happy I am for you. On your wedding day, you asked guests to bring a small item, a token for your alter that symbolized this special day. I didn't put anything on the alter during the ceremony like everyone else. I searched and searched for just the right item to bring and I couldn't find the ONE thing that would convey the message I wanted you to have. I want you to remember how crazy powerful this love feels right now - how it engulfs your whole body and makes you giddy and also a little sick to your stomach. So, I decided my alter item would have to wait just a little while. Because what I really want you to have - to remember - to look back on - is this (well, not this blog - but the pictures:)).

And there's no way I can end this blog post without a couple kid pictures! My friend, Eric had his super cute little boy there - and he was practicing jumping off the steps - and then Kara's daughter - oh, my - I couldn't have planned it any better. Looking at her running makes my heart smile!
Tiffany and Dade - thank you for the opportunity to be a part of your day - your commitment. I will treasure it always.