Art by Ashley Photography Blog

Max | Chapel Hill Newborn Photographer

2011-12-28T10:50:00.000-08:00

Max is so precious and has a beautiful big sister who loved hugging and kissing him during our session. She made some of the funniest expressions when she'd get to hold him, I included one, which might be one of my favorite pictures:)

It was really nice photographing this family, I was glad we were able to snag a few shots with dad before he had to take off. Plus, I'm a total sucker for a beautiful mom and Brittany has such stunning features. She's gorgeous. Thank you for trusting me to photograph your new baby, I hope you enjoy the pictures.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T17:39:00.000-08:00

Whitney and Josh needed a few shots for their Christmas cards, here's what we got! It was so nice to see Whitney, I hadn't seen her since high school, and it was great meeting her sweetheart. I hope you're enjoying your first Christmas as a married couple:)

The Hiatt Family | Greensboro Family Photographer

2011-10-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

The Hiatts are no strangers to the Art by Ashley Photography blog. Have I mentioned that I love repeat clients? These guys are great. They always do every pose perfectly and manage to get it right the first time around! What can I say, they're naturals in front of the camera. These two have always been so cute together, and they seem to just be even cuter now that they have a third member in their family!

I have loved watching little Mia grow from her mom's belly to her first week on earth. If it's even possible, she seems to get cuter and cuter every day! My husband and I can't get enough of her ridiculously cute smile and chubby cheeks. Aimee said that she and Michael "fight" over who gets to go get her in the morning because she's always so happy to see them. How sweet! I hope our little girl is like that;)

We (or at least I!) always have a great time photographing this beautiful family. They're so fun and they probably make me laugh and smile more than I make them! Like I said, they're great!

What a perfect session to end on before baby girl gets here!

To see more pictures of the Hiatt's "like" us on facebook!

Tanner Family | Greensboro Family Photographer

2011-10-18T14:57:00.000-07:00

Check out this super cute family! I LOVE it when a couple still has that spark in their eye and can flirt and play with each other even after kids are in the picture! This is definitely that couple. I had such a great time meeting and photographing them and their little one. Thank you for choosing me to capture your family!

Harrison | Durham Newborn Photographer

2011-10-05T14:00:00.001-07:00

As if I weren't already anxious to meet my little girl, I'm now quadruple excited to meet her! Harrison was so perfect. After he fell asleep he posed perfectly, we got all the pictures done in record time! Another record, he didn't pee or poop on a single blanket or prop!

I love this:

Melissa was afraid she wouldn't get to do much/go anywhere while she was pregnant so Chris made this for her showcasing all the places she went while pregnant with Harrison. How cute!

Congratulations Chris and Melissa on your 8 lbs of perfection!

Connell Family | Greensboro Family Photographer

2011-09-09T15:47:00.000-07:00

What's that, you recognize this cute couple? Ah...yes I thought you would. Way back before anyone knew about Annabelle, these pictures were taken, and once the secret was out these pictures were taken!

We went to Charleston to see them over Labor Day weekend because well, we miss them like crazy! Of course there were photo ops everywhere and a *few* maternity pictures were planned
for the hubs and me;) Thank you, Kristin for taking them!

To say we love these people is a huge understatement. And, sorry Ben, but I will never tire of taking their pictures either:)

Kristin is a photographer in Charleston, SC (so beautiful!) check out her blog!
http://kristincphotography.blogspot.com/

Heather | Burlington Wedding Photographer

2011-09-01T06:25:00.000-07:00

Heather flew in a few days before her wedding with just enough time to squeeze in a bridal shoot before her big day. I'm so glad she did, it's always nice to have that more relaxed time with the bride when they're not crazy busy with all the wedding day festivities. We did her session at Elon because that's where her dad works and her reception was going to be held. Plus it's just a beautiful campus in general!

Josh & Heather | Burlington Wedding Photographer

2011-08-22T13:42:00.001-07:00

Heather and Josh flew in from California to get married last week and what a beautiful wedding day they had. From the cooperating weather to the nice ceremony and reception, everything was perfect. This was the perfect wedding to wrap up the season before baby arrives!

Cool side note: Heather has a twin sister and twin brothers 18 months younger, how cool is that!

They didn't want to see each other before the wedding, but wanted to at least be near each other, so we made Josh promise not to peek and brought Heather out for a quick photo op.

Heather made all the bridesmaids jewelry, she did a great job and they were all a little different!

I hope ya'll are having the time of your lives in Jamaica!

Wedding location: Front Street United Methodist Church
Reception location: Moseley Campus Center at Elon

Towers Family | Durham Family Photographer

2011-08-04T16:42:00.000-07:00

Say "hello" to the Towers family. Having attended their wedding in Asheville a few years ago and seeing them here and there since then, I was excited for the chance to photograph their family since I hadn't met their cute little "Kai Guy" yet. Oh man, he is CUTE!

We met up at the Tobacco District in Durham on a busy and wet night! First, there was a Durham Bulls game going on so parking was an issue...then the rain coming and going posed a little bit of a problem. They didn't seem to let either dampen their moods at all though and totally went with the flow. We even had to wait under a restaurant overhang for 40 minutes after the shoot because the heavens opened, I don't think I've seen that much rain in a long time.

Thank you Angela and Aaron for being such wonderful people, friends, and a treat to work with!

Courtney & Chris | Greensboro Wedding Photographer

2011-07-15T06:02:00.000-07:00

Courtney and Chris were married in the beautiful Washington DC LDS temple (pictures 2-4) a few weeks ago and after their honeymoon had a reception for their friends and family back home in Greensboro. I only shot the reception which is why most of the pictures are reception shots:)

Working with these two has been a lot of fun, I've never had so many people come along for a bridal or engagement shoot but for each session Courtney's family was there and made it super fun (and easy for me since they were always so willing to help me carry stuff, move things, and fluff up her dress-thank you!) I love Courtney's brown eyes that look almost Amber when the sun catches them just right. My last couple brides have probably been the ones I've had to do the least amount of touching up to their pictures, I love it when that happens:)

Thank you guys for always making me laugh during every shoot and for the good friends you and your families have been to me!

PS don't you love the shoes...they were the same ones my bridesmaids and I wore for my wedding almost 3 years ago. Still looking fabulous:)

Justine & Jordan | Winston-Salem Wedding Photographer

2011-07-11T11:31:00.001-07:00

It finally happened, the much anticipated wedding of Jordan and Justine! It was a little bittersweet for me, I was (and still am!) really really happy for them but I've loved working with them so much that it's sad to see it end. I hope we will remain friends for years to come! Justine looked absolutely radiant and I loved her colors...they happened to be my wedding colors too:) One thing I love about this couple is how chill they are. With every wedding there are a few unexpected things that happen on the day of, and theirs was no exception; how they dealt with those minor hiccups WAS the exception. They totally went with the flow and didn't let anything slow them down a bit, they are seriously so great. Plus their family/wedding party was awesome to work with, what more could I ask for?! Thanks you two for such a wonderful wedding experience, I wish you both every happiness life has to offer!

Out of the Office

2011-06-26T16:15:00.001-07:00

I will be out of town and unable to check e-mail from Monday June 27th-Saturday July 2nd. I will respond to all e-mails when I get back. Thank you!

Kramer Family | Chapel Hill Family Photographer

2011-06-25T07:29:00.000-07:00

Hilary and I have been friends for years, but unfortunately we live on opposite sides of the country. I was really excited when she sent me a message saying she was coming in to town for a few days. I haven't met her (SUPER CUTE!) son, Braiker (don't you just love that name?!) and I hadn't seen her in probably 5 or 6 years. It's funny though, some people you can see once every 5+ years and it's like you never skipped a beat, aside from all the catching up on each other's lives you've missed out on! It was so great seeing her after all this time. She informed me that her family has never had family pictures done, or at least that it had been several years, so she hired me for a mini session on UNC campus. I don't think I've ever photographed a baby who was so cooperative and looked AND smiled right at me. What a charmer! I hope you enjoy your pictures, Kramer/Lamb Family!

Briley | Winston-Salem Newborn Photographer

2011-06-24T14:03:00.000-07:00

I LOVE Jen and Seth. I have from the moment I met them and they're still just as cute together and in love as the first day I met them over two years ago. The only difference is now they have a cute baby girl now too! I don't think I've ever met someone so excited about being pregnant. Seriously she never complained ONCE. Congratulations you two love bugs! She's perfect!

don't you just love how they all look at each other, seriously cute!

I love how Briley opened her eyes long enough to look up at mom and dad smooching, cute!

This shoot makes me so excited to have pics with my husband and our little girl in November!!!

Lynette | Durham Newborn Photographer

2011-06-17T07:12:00.000-07:00

I got an e-mail last week from an excited aunt who wanted to gift her brother and sister-in-law a newborn shoot for her new niece. What a perfect present! I might be biased, but I can't think of a better "push present" ...or shower, birthday, Christmas, etc. gift than a newborn shoot to capture your perfect little angel in their first week or two of life. Sure burp cloths are nice, and a necessity, but pictures aren't like anything else; you keep and cherish photos forever and look at them often, plus you can share them with your entire family and even use those pictures as gifts too! Ok, enough about what a great gift Katie decided to give to her family:)

Lynette was such a joy to photograph, thank you Katie for thinking of me to do these pictures and thank you Tucker and Lauren for braving the Obama traffic to make it to the session! Enjoy your perfect new addition!

Malcolm | Chapel Hill Newborn Photographer

2011-06-16T11:27:00.000-07:00

More perfection in an 8 lb bundle:) Malcolm was a great, sleepy sport from the second I arrived through almost two hours of shooting. At the end he was awake but completely content for a few pictures with his beautiful momma. Thank you, Brian and Erica for trusting me to capture your awesome little guy, I can't wait to watch him grow!

Mother & Daughter | Chapel Hill Newborn Photographer

2011-06-16T07:05:00.000-07:00

I've said this so many times, but I LOVE newborn shoots. I love that they can be the most challenging and most time consuming sessions, but when you get "that" picture it makes all the mess, waiting, soothing, and sweating so worth it! There's something about a perfect new baby that is impossible not to love. I'm also a big fan of shots of baby with mom and/or dad. I love capturing the love in a new mother's eyes, the strength and safety in a father's arms. I love my job:)

Babies Babies Babies | Chapel Hill Newborn Photographer

2011-06-14T12:09:00.000-07:00

Before I head out for another shoot tonight I wanted to put up a picture from the three newborn sessions I had yesterday and today. Two newborn shoots a day make for A LOT of laundry and one excited momma-to-be!

Malcolm:

Lynette:

Briley:

Beautiful Sisters | Greensboro Child Portrait Photographer

2011-06-11T10:47:00.000-07:00

Running around Center City Park in downtown Greensboro with these two cuties was so much fun. When their mom contacted me, she said she wanted some casual pictures showing the girls' personalities. Between the rolling around in the grass, laughing, and silly faces, I think we captured them!

I love mini-sessions, especially for those with young kids or anyone else with a short attention span/tolerance for pictures (like my husband) because they're perfect if you don't need a ton of pictures and almost anyone can last 30 minutes:) I was actually shocked how well these girls listened, given their age. Like I said, it was so much fun to run around the park with them! I hope the pictures make for a great father's day present!

Courtney | Greensboro Wedding Photographer

2011-06-08T10:35:00.000-07:00

I'm loving all these bridal shoots lately, especially since each one has been at a new place! I'm always excited for a new location, especially if it's a place that's special to the bride/couple/family or whatever the case may be! This shoot was done at Courtney's aunt's house and it was the perfect location for her bridal shoot! Only problem, as I sit here editing on this hot day, I totally want to go jump in a pool, especially that gorgeous one!

Courtney has such beautiful features, her stunning eyes, beautiful lips and smile, striking black hair, etc. As I look at these pictures I can't help but think she looks like a tan version of Snow White. She's such a beauty!

Jeff & Nikki | Greensboro Wedding Photographer

2011-06-07T13:01:00.000-07:00

I've known Jeff for years, and it was a real treat when he contacted me to take some engagement pictures of him and his fiance, Nikki. We prayed for good weather since they were both only in town for a couple days and my entire week was already booked solid. I was worried luck wouldn't be on my side and hold off the bad weather two days in a row, first with Justine, then with Nikki and Jeff, but fortunately, the rain completely missed us!

Engagement sessions are one of my favorite session types to photograph because you always have such happy, willing people! I am lucky enough to have clients who will do just about anything for a good picture, these guys were no exception. From climbing on bridges in high heels and a fitted skirt, to laying in potentially damp grass in their nice clothes, they didn't mind a bit.

As most of you know I'm a sucker for gorgeous eyes and Nikki has long lashes and beautiful green eyes that just pop, love that! While I'm not shooting their wedding, I was excited to meet Nikki and wish them both all the best!

Justine | Greensboro Wedding Photographer

2011-06-06T12:13:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you have a bride who you love working with but after your mail their wedding CD you never hear from them again. Then there are those brides who you feel like you should be in their wedding party and you want to invite to your baby shower because you feel like you've been friends forever. Justine is the latter.

Justine and I had a relatively short shoot, and as the clock ticked away I was a little nervous that we weren't going to have enough light (or the rain storms wouldn't hold off) to get many good pictures. Well let me tell you...OH. MY. GOSH. Was I WRONG! We hopped in my car and headed to a field minutes away from my house. I had been driving around all day hoping to find something close and almost everywhere I went, my wide open fields of tall grass had been mowed:( Then I found this little gem and it was perfect. The only problem ended up being me having to decide which ones to keep. I went through several times and told myself, "Ashley, this is very similar to that one, just delete it!" I seriously wanted to keep every single one of them and share them all on the blog. Justine, I hope you love them. If you rock my camera like this on your wedding day, I'm gonna be in trouble when it comes time to throw out the "bad ones". You are so fun and so beautiful, and Jordan is one lucky fella!

Megan & Jeremy | Winston-Salem Wedding Photographer

2011-06-03T14:21:00.000-07:00

My first wedding of the season started with beautiful weather...followed quickly by A LOT of rain! Luckily, the rain stopped at the very end of the ceremony giving us enough time to get the group shots and a few of Jeremy and Megan outside, talk about a time crunch! Megan did a beautiful job with all the decorations, even though the reception had to be moved from outdoors to indoors fairly last-minute. I've always heard it's good luck if it rains on your wedding day; between the rain and the beautiful vows they wrote for each other I think they will be just fine:)

Busy Bee!

2011-05-31T11:23:00.000-07:00

I've been super busy with shoots everyday, and helping the hubs beautify the house but had to put up a few shots from some of my most recent sessions. I don't know how I get so lucky and get the sweetest, most gorgeous clients ever, but I sure do love it:)

Miller Family | Chapel Hill Family Photographer

2011-05-22T17:16:00.002-07:00

Meet the Miller Family. They have been friends of my family ever since I can remember. Generally family sessions are the hardest of any session to photograph especially when young children are involved, but I felt like I was in and out of there in no time and got a lot of great pictures. To make my job even easier, look how photogenic they all are. Thank you, Debbie for letting me photograph your beautiful, growing family!

Harmon Family | Chapel Hill Family Photographer

2011-05-17T08:46:00.000-07:00

I met up with this cute family the night before Charles' graduation from UNC Med School (congrats, Charles!) to get some pictures documenting their time in Chapel Hill. What a neat time to be in Chapel Hill! The excitement was almost tangible all over campus as people waited in line to take pictures at the famous "Old Well". Parents and spouses glowed as they proudly watched their graduates take pictures in their (much deserved and for some LONG awaited) graduation robes. Dianna, Charles and family were definitely no exception. I'm so happy they chose me to capture this happy time in their life and I wish them so much success in their next chapter.

Megan | Greensboro Wedding Photographer

2011-04-26T16:19:00.000-07:00

Megan wanted a nice field to take pictures in, unfortunately, everything is currently in the "growing" stage and looks just like shabby abandoned fields with ankle-deep grass. Luckily, driving around my new area I found a few places with some tall wheat, score! We also ventured downtown for a few urban shots to get a lot of variety. As with most of my wonderful brides, Megan was up for anything. I can't wait for her wedding next month!

Thanks Megan for being a trooper, getting in and out of the car in that dress was challenging enough!

Hoppy Easter | Out of the office

2011-04-22T07:14:00.000-07:00

I will be out of town enjoying Easter with the family through Sunday. I will respond to all e-mails Monday.

Mia | Greensboro Newborn Photographer

2011-04-21T17:38:00.000-07:00

Michael + Aimee = Mia. Sweet little Mia has the perfect mixture of mom and dad to make her as cute as she could possibly be! There's something about first-time parents with their new baby that I just love. Also, I'm a sucker for babies with lots of dark hair. Mia fit perfectly into both of these categories. I know her parents have been looking forward to her arrival for quite some time and are so glad she's here. What a lucky girl she is to be blessed with parents, and many others who love her so much. Welcome to the world, little angel.

Boston | Chapel Hill Child Portrait Photographer

2011-04-02T19:10:00.000-07:00

I can't believe this little man is one year old now! Just over a year ago I took pictures of him while he was still in mommy's tummy. Then, last April I got to finally meet him for his first photo shoot. Now his eyes are still that gorgeous bright shade of blue he's had ever since he was a newborn. His mom wanted some vintage pictures, so I called my parents who told me the whereabouts of an abandoned truck, score! Then on my way to Chapel Hill I saw these beautiful yellow flowers behind a garage, such luck! I hope you enjoy these pictures as much as I did taking them!

I had to include this picture because I think it's so dang cute. He was so sad because it was getting pretty chilly and he didn't have much on, he's always such a trooper!

Jordan & Justine | Winston-Salem Wedding Photographer

2011-03-08T08:10:00.000-08:00

When I met with Justine back in December she told me about Horizons Park that she and Jordan go to regularly to play frisbee golf, go on walks, and climb trees. I always love to photograph couples in a place that's special to them and it's a bonus if it's a new place I've never shot before! This location fit both of those descriptions:) Even though the weather was a little chilly and the ground was a little wet, these two didn't seem to mind at all. They're so cute and happy together, and doesn't Jordan look so content and Justine just breathtaking in the pictures where they're lying down, those are definitely my favorites! I can't wait for their June wedding!

Michael & Aimee | Greensboro Maternity Photographer

2011-02-27T07:10:00.000-08:00

Wow, I loved this session, everything about it! First of all, they're both beautiful people and second, they're so dang cute together. What a lucky girl this baby is already! I can't wait to meet her in April, she is going to be GORGEOUS no doubt.

I can't look at this picture without smiling, they're just so cute and happy together that it makes me happy!

I thought it was very appropriate that the sky had some pink in it since they're having a girl!

As a side note, I'm not expecting but I love Aimee's shirt so much I think I'm going to go buy myself one this week!

Courtney & Chris | Greensboro Wedding Photographer

2011-02-20T16:31:00.000-08:00

I had such a great time shooting Courtney and Chris' engagement session, they are so in love and so happy to be together. We went to UNC Greensboro for their shoot and I was really impressed with all the pretty places there are to shoot there! I've only ever visited this campus once and it was a rainy day in high school, the only thing I remember about it is the cafeteria and the dorms; therefore, Courtney had to lead the way the entire time.

You'll notice Courtney has big beautiful brown eyes that pop beautifully in the sunlight.

P.S. I'm SO in love with her black hair.

I loved this tree, way to go Courtney for scouting out great spots!

The weather is getting so nice now, I sure hope it stays:)

Check out this blog!

2011-02-08T06:37:00.000-08:00

Ali, a dear friend of mine you may remember from this post or perhaps this one, featured my work on her N.C. baby blog.

Check her blog out and become a follower!

If you're not a public follower here, be sure do that while you're at it too:)

Sharing the love

2011-02-02T13:11:00.000-08:00

For all those who wanted to, but didn't, win the free mini session at the service auction last week, I am offering half off all sessions* if you book by Valentines day, February 14th.

Your session can take place anytime in the next 6 months!

Go to the Art by Ashley Photography website for wedding and portrait session prices.

*promotion excludes wedding packages

Getting married?

2011-01-14T14:49:00.001-08:00

Are you or is someone you know getting married or close to being engaged? If so, be sure to check out my current promotions on mywedding.com and pass on the deals!

Now offering mini-sessions!

2011-01-06T14:52:00.000-08:00

I just put this on the website today!

Looking for great pictures but don't want to spend a lot of money?

Book a 30-minute mini-session for just $100.

You will get the best 10 pictures from your shoot, beautifully edited, on CD.

Linlee | Greensboro Newborn Photographer

2010-12-23T06:17:00.000-08:00

Linlee was five days old when I photographed her yesterday. What a special Christmas present she is to her loving family. I know her arrival has been very anticipated, not only for mom and dad, but for her three older siblings as well! I'm so happy I got to capture this angel in all her perfection. When I hear her name I think of the word "heavenly" and as you can see, that's just what she is. Thank you, Gina and Scott, for allowing me to capture her.

Merry Christmas!

Art by Ashley.

2010-11-29T18:03:00.000-08:00

check it out:)

www.artbyashleyphotography.com

Warner Family | Durham Family Photographer

2010-11-13T08:45:00.000-08:00

I was excited when I got the email asking me to take this family's pictures for multiple reasons. First, my husband and Taylor went to law school together and we haven't seen them since graduation (which was right after their baby was born) so we miss them! And two, they're beautiful and fun to be around! Their little man, was a lot more interested in the ducks, sticks, and throwing things in the water, but we still got a handful of pictures where he's looking at me and smiling! It was great to see you guys, I hope you love your pictures!

Duke Gardens is not only one of my favorite places to shoot but its special to them because Taylor is in law school at Duke!

Sweet baby | Chapel Hill Newborn Photographer

2010-11-13T08:32:00.000-08:00

Earlier this week I got together with Rebecca of Darling Art to photograph this precious girl who I think looks just like her brothers. It's impossible to have sessions like this and not want a little one of your own. I find after every newborn session I'm unconsciously swaying side to side for the next few days as if rocking the little sweetheart to sleep. She is the perfect addition to this family of all boys:)

Condie Family | Chapel Hill Family Photographer

2010-11-13T08:15:00.000-08:00

My family hasn't had pictures taken since Taylor was a baby so we decided now that Weston is part of the family, we needed an updated family picture.

This first picture has four generations, my grandparents (on my dad's side) down to my sisters kids! Unfortunately when we took the pictures at the hayfield I forgot my remote so I had to run back and forth after every picture (remember this is the day that we had only a few minutes of light!)

Bush Family | Mebane Family Photographer

2010-11-13T06:58:00.000-08:00

With about five minutes of light we ventured out to get a few family shots, this whole daylight savings thing is totally throwing me off. Luckily, we got a few cute shots of everyone before the sun was totally gone.

Bryce & Erin | Chapel Hill Wedding Photographer

2010-11-03T05:28:00.000-07:00

Erin has been one of my best friends since we were little so I was thrilled when she hired me to photograph her and Bryce's wedding. The ceremony, performed by Bryce's grandfather at the Raleigh LDS temple, was beautiful, it definitely set the mood for the rest of the day. Erin and Bryce were friends long before they started dating, and I think it's so evident in their relationship, they seem to know each other inside and out and are so fun to be around. Every person in attendance was sending off rays of happiness, I think some people have been looking forward to this wedding for a while! Congratulations you two, we love you both and are so happy for you!

OJ & Christa | Raleigh Wedding Photographer

2010-11-02T16:52:00.000-07:00

OJ and Christa had an intimate wedding with just their family and closest friends. I loved how Christa's son walked her down the isle, and how the wedding party consisted of just their kids, it was perfect. Christa has such beautiful red hair and stunning bright blue eyes as you'll see for yourself!

The boy and me. Europe.

2010-10-14T11:56:00.000-07:00

Here are some of my favorite pictures from our fabulous three week trip through Europe. We visited France (Paris, Versailles), Switzerland (Geneva), and Italy (Milan, Venice, La Spezia, Cinque Terra, Florence, Montepulciano, all over Tuscany, and Rome). My poor husband was such a great sport, wearing a sweater for our Eiffel tower pictures even though it was quite warm, and lugging my INTENSE tripod all over three countries. I love that man!

Florence:

Paris:

Venice:

Tuscany:

Do you see the bee on the flower in the front?

Cinque Terre:

Disclaimer: the sunflower pictures of me by myself were taken by my husband, Carleton, I think I've taught him well:)

Stacy | Durham Wedding Photographer

2010-10-14T11:38:00.000-07:00

I always love a Duke Gardens bridal shoot. I have known Stacy for several years now, and NEVER have I seen her glowing and as giddy as she was a couple weeks ago for her bridal shoot. I'm pretty sure 5 minutes never went by without her saying "woohoooooooo" talk about an excited bride:) I was so happy she asked me to take her portraits, there's nothing like seeing people on their happiest occasions, oh the joys of wedding and newborn photography:)

Erin & Bryce | Durham Wedding Photographer

2010-09-10T10:13:00.000-07:00

To say Erin and I grew up together would be an understatement. Not only have we been friends since we were little, but in the last year or so she would come have sleep-overs with me while my husband was away for the summer, and come to my place early in the morning (after Carleton was back) so we could go running before I went to work, what a good girl friend!

When I heard that Bryce had finally popped the question and they set a date I was thrilled she chose me to do their pictures. Afterall, what photographer doesn't want to photograph beautiful people?! They're getting married in October so to have their pictures done in time for their announcements to be sent out we had to do it on a hot and HUMID NC night...they are troopers.

Erin and I used to have little fashion shows (just the two of us) where we'd take pictures of each other in our various outfits so this was pretty much second nature for her (I can't wait for her bridal shoot in a few weeks). She and Bryce are so natural together and comfortable with each other that it makes it a breeze to shoot them.

Bryce proposed at Duke Gardens, so it was only fitting to do their engagement shoot there too!

Here's another couple that will have some beautiful brown-eyed babies!

Aaron & Adrienne.

2010-09-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

I was so excited for this shoot I can't even tell you! First, I hadn't seen my friend, Aaron, in about a year and second, I got to meet his sweet fiance! The moment I saw them together I knew there could not be a better fit for Aaron. They are so cute together and so in love, you can't help but smile and be happy when you're in their company. I'm so happy for them and wish them every happiness. Can you imagine what their kids will look like, total knockouts for sure!

Congrats on your upcoming wedding!

Dean | Durham Newborn Photographer

2010-08-31T10:31:00.000-07:00

Meet Dean, 16 days new. Could he be any chubbier? Maybe. Any cuter? I think not. I love his little rolls and double chin. When it comes to babies, that fatter the better is my husband's motto.

I had to include this next picture for the simple fact that it made my husband and me crack up. Allison, this little guys mom, wanted a picture of him smiling so she kept tickling his lips and cheeks, every time she did he would look at her and make this face. When I first looked at the pictures my husband said, "other people might not think it's a great picture, but if you were there you'd love it because you know he's looking right at Allison giving her the stank eye".

and we got a little smile eventually!

Welcome to the world, baby Dean, you're in for a treat with two great parents who already love you so much!

Bonjour!

2010-08-29T20:27:00.000-07:00

My husband and I are back from our three week travel across Europe and there is a lot of blogging to be done. For now I'll tide you over with one picture from each of last weeks sessions as well as one of the boy and me! Enjoy!

Courtney & Rod | Greensboro Wedding Photographer

2010-07-21T14:22:00.000-07:00

Courtney and Rod had a HUGE wedding party, but it fit right in with their wedding since they had 400+ people in attendance.

This TOTALLY reminds me of my husband anytime I ask him to smile or be in a picture.

This little guy was NOT a fan of pictures...or walking down the isle. The first time I took his picture he came towards me and put his hand over the lens. This happened a couple times until I finally put it away until he got halfway down the isle. That's as far as he got, he turned around and came back:)

Their sweet ride from the ceremony to the reception site.

They had their reception at Revolution Mill Studios, one of my favorite reception sites in Greensboro.

These guys "took" my picture!

I loved their bride/groom glasses.

Holly & Chris | Hillsborough Wedding Photographer

2010-06-28T14:47:00.000-07:00

Holly & Chris were married this past Saturday and had their reception at one of the most unique and beautiful places I've ever photographed. It was really hard to pick just a few places to take pictures with the 15+ minutes I had with the bride and groom at the end. They were really good sports given that it was around 98 degrees outside!

some of the interesting decor inside the home

Holly's sister, Kaitlin (the one in the green), made her dress out of a tablecloth... in two days!

After all the mingling, cake-cutting, and dancing we headed outside for my favorite part of every wedding...the pictures of the bride and groom:)

Chanelle & Mat | Raleigh Wedding Photographer

2010-06-14T14:13:00.000-07:00

I LOVED working with Chanelle and Mat, they are some of the most kind, sincere people I've ever met. Chanelle was absolutely gorgeous with her blue flowers that matched her stunning blue eyes, and her beautiful dress complete with an antique veil.

They were married at St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church in Raleigh.

They both have AWESOME eyes!

I'm a HUGE fan of gray suits, I think it looks soooo good.

Chanelle and Mat wanted to be near each other without actually seeing each other before the ceremony. With three minutes to spare before the ceremony I ran and grabbed Chanelle (who was already waiting upstairs for the ceremony to start) so they could have a quick moment together. And what a moment it was! Chanelle put her hand on his shoulder and immediately got teary-eyed...that's when the bridesmaids started feeling a little moisture in their eyes too. I was so glad I got to share that really special moment with them.

Back upstairs!

Chanelle is the best jumping bride I've ever seen, and this isn't even her best jump...but it was everyone else's:)

They had a rockin' wedding party, loved the shades!

Have fun in Costa Rica, guys. I wish you both all the best!

Lyndsie & Josh | Chapel Hill Wedding Photographer

2010-06-09T16:04:00.000-07:00

If ever there was a bride who was radiant, I mean really, truly just glowed on her wedding day, that bride would be Lyndsie.

If ever there were a groom who was beyond words and overcome with emotion the first time he laid eyes on his bride, that groom would be Josh.

These two are PERFECT for each other. They are so in love, and such good people; in fact, immediately after their first kiss as husband and wife their first act as a married couple was one of service to all their guests.

Lyndsie is all smiles and it NEVER gets old how cute they are together. Congratulations, you two, I wish you every happiness!

The boys rode to the ceremony in style

This little one didn't actually make it down the isle, despite the piggy and binkie to bribe her...but she did empty her flowers, eventually!

I loved all the singing.

This old fella made an appearance a few times during the wedding, front and center no less:)

Annabelle continued | Durham Newborn Photographer

2010-06-04T12:25:00.001-07:00

I had to do one more post, because she is just that darn cute.

Annabelle's daddy has a motorcycle. This is his helmet:

He also plays the guitar...

Amy & Mark | Greensboro Wedding Photographer

2010-06-01T11:52:00.000-07:00

I thought for sure on Amy & Mark's wedding day it was going to pour. Fortunately, the rain held out for the ceremony and most of the pictures of the wedding party afterward, hallelujah! This couple had HANDS DOWN the best garter toss I've ever witnessed. Scroll down for pictures:)

Amy was sitting there when Mark was blindfolded. Then her grandma came on the stage and switched places with her, classic.

Annabelle | Durham Newborn Photographer

2010-05-31T19:22:00.000-07:00

This little dear was born almost one week ago (a couple weeks early). We only had about 15 minutes of light, and probably only 2 minutes of good light by the time we got started, but we still managed to get some cute pictures:) I had to look at these immediately to give momma something to look at while she's up late feeding little Ms. Annabelle:)

This is her, "Ashley, are you done yet?!" picture, you can read it all over her face!

Good Genes.

2010-05-18T11:19:00.000-07:00

My husband graduated from Duke Law School on Saturday, congratulations, honey! When we found out our brother-in-law was graduating Sunday instead of Saturday we JUMPED at the opportunity to attend his graduations (MBA and Law) from William and Mary, Go Karl! We wanted to be there to support him, but we also just really miss them and wanted to see their two beautiful girls, Elsa and Vera. The last time we saw Vera she was a newborn and couldn't smile or play with us, now she's crawling and pulling herself up and so much fun to be around!

People often ask when Carleton and I plan on having kids...well we have a lot of cute on both sides of our families to live up to!

No matter which side our kids get more of their looks from, I think it's a safe bet they'll be pretty darn cute, after all check out this pretty girl, Taylor, from the Condie side:

And this beauty, Vera, modeling the Clauss side of the family:

*disclaimer, I must also give credit to the Bush family for Taylor's cute face and the Thorpe family for Vera's.

Lyndsie | Mebane Wedding Photographer

2010-05-12T12:37:00.000-07:00

Lyndsie just graduated from Duke Divinity School and what better way to celebrate than by taking some bridal pictures and getting geared up for her upcoming wedding in two weeks! Lyndsie is always so friendly and smiley when I see her, and just a real treat to work with! Plus she has some amazing eyes (you all know how obsessed I am with eyes) and a very elegant beauty about her. I hope you all enjoy!

If you recognized those purple flowers from the side of the Interstate...you're correct:)

Kristin | Chapel Hill Maternity Photographer

2010-04-27T15:09:00.001-07:00

You may remember Kristin and Ben from this shoot last October. My husband and I are really great friends with these two and we're so excited to meet their little girl, Annabelle who is due to make her grand appearance in June! Thanks for being such wonderful friends to us, we love you!

Boston | Durham Newborn Photographer

2010-04-20T13:47:00.000-07:00

In case you couldn't tell, this little guy's name is Boston. He has a very cute, very antique/vintage/rustic style nursery. He was such a trooper during his shoot and has the most crisp, amazing blue eyes I've ever seen on a newborn! I think these images (along with the two previous posts) speak for themselves. Enjoy!

I never do this! | Durham Newborn Photographer

2010-04-20T09:25:00.000-07:00

But here is ANOTHER sneak peek. Remember this BEAUTIFUL mother-to-be? Well back when I did this shoot I decided to hold back one of the pictures I liked, so when this little guy was born I could show it off. Well this is that picture. What do you think?

Sneak Peek for Momma! | Durham Newborn Photographer

2010-04-19T06:49:00.000-07:00

Whitney | Durham Wedding Photographer

2010-04-06T15:20:00.001-07:00

I saw photos of Whitney and her fiance before I ever actually met her. The first thing I thought was wow, this girl can strike a pose and looks awesome in these photos. Needless to say, I was anxiously awaiting my chance to photograph her, come Saturday, 5:00 couldn't get here fast enough! She's getting married at the beach, barefoot (hence the lack of shoes in all the pictures). Whitney is such a beautiful girl inside and out, but you can probably tell that from these photos...

Bridal Portraits taken at Duke Gardens.

Amy & Ryan | Old Salem Wedding Photographer

2010-04-04T18:00:00.000-07:00

I love shooting in Old Salem. It's such a beautiful, vintage, old town that has so many little nooks and crannies that just scream, "take a picture here". Generally, I love getting to know the people whose weddings I'm going to photograph beforehand, but it felt like we were old friends even though I didn't meet Ryan until 30 minutes before I started snapping his groom/groomsmen pictures, and the first time I saw Amy was through my lens as she was walking down the isle. They had such a beautiful ceremony, performed by Ryan's dad, behind the Salem Tavern, followed by a dinner inside. Another thing I love about Old Salem is how all the people are dressed like they're from a different time, it's all so authentic. I'm glad I was able to meet this amazing couple and capture some of their special moments.

Weston continued | Chapel Hill Newborn Photographer

2010-03-22T08:11:00.000-07:00

More of this sweet little baby boy.

Weston | Chapel Hill Newborn Photographer

2010-03-15T13:44:00.000-07:00

Here's a little sneak peak of this handsome brand new baby boy. Being only 3.5 days old when I started photographing him, he's the youngest baby I've ever had the privilege of photographing. Here's a little sneak peak for the family of their newest addition:)

Ashley, my friend who made the hats with the long tails took on a few more challenges for me, one being the cute green hat with the buttons!

more to come...

Christian & Jessie | Raleigh Wedding Photographer

2010-03-07T18:53:00.000-08:00

Christian and Jessie were married on the first beautiful day I can remember in months! The sun was shining, the birds were singing, and they were glowing. I love shooting weddings here because just less than a year and a half ago my handsome husband and I were married in those very walls:)

As we were leaving we wanted to get some pictures in front of the sign and Christian was such a gentleman to go get the car then jump out before Jessie had the chance to open her own door; he then proceeded to dropped her off so she wouldn't have to walk far in her high heels, looks like they're starting off on the right foot!

Sarah & Andy | Durham Wedding Photographer

2010-03-07T18:33:00.000-08:00

Sarah, Andy, and Riley (their dog) were so fun to work with. They have such sweet and friendly personalities, and are just so happy to be together. Sarah has such a warm and inviting smile which makes it impossible for anyone around her not to smile. I found myself with a huge smile on my face behind the camera whenever I wasn't trying to get Riley's attention, she was SUPER excited about all the squirrels, ducks, and geese at Duke Gardens. I must admit I never know how many distractions there are around me until I'm experiencing my surroundings with a child or a dog! She was a great sport though, even when Amy put the "thank you" sign around her neck!

Engagement Pictures taken at Duke Gardens.