I took the challenge and did a "Decade in Review"

One of my favorite inspirational coaches is Marie Forleo. I don’t listen to her as much as I could, but when I do, I’m always glad I did. For one thing, she always makes me laugh. She’s actually pretty silly, a lot of the time.

But, mixed in with her silliness, laughter and good humor are some true gems.

After watching her video about doing a Decade in Review, I decided to suggest doing it to my wife and two friends. We had taken a trip to our tiny cabin in the mountains, and it seemed like a good way to spend an evening after a day of hiking.

The act of looking back at our actions over the decade of the 2010s proved incredibly powerful. We learned as individuals and as a group. (You find out quite a bit about a friend when they share answers to questions as compelling as these.

The first section of the Decade in Review was all about what you’re most proud of and included these steps:

“Over the past 10 years, what have you done that you’re proud of? 

What are the obstacles you’ve overcome? 

What are some of the results you’ve created in your career or life since 2010?”

— Marie Forleo

Our small group made it through the first question. We came up with lists of things, large and small, that we were proud of.

Me with Mom and Sharon in 2016. I took Lots of selfies with Mom. She loved to look at them after I took them and would ask me to take another if she wasn’t happy with the way she looked. here’s one of my favorites.

For me the years between 2010 and 2017 were some of the most meaningful of my lifetime. During that time, I walked with my mother along her Alzheimer’s journey. At times, it was difficult, at other times enlightening, and always love-filled.

My mother and I grew closer together than we had ever been.

Spending time with my Mom during those 7 years, gave me more satisfaction than almost anything else I’ve done in my life.

Looking towards the next decade, I know to pay more attention to relationships, than to career, awards, money, travel, etc. Because, I’m certain that it’s the way I interact with the people I love, that once again, will be most significant when I reach the next turn of the decade in 2030.

I plan to be here and happy, and hope you will be, too.

Classic Black and White at Emory Med School Alumni Event

Even though a lot of photographers consider event photography boring, I actually find it quite challenging. I use all the skills of a photojournalist that use when photographing a news event or wedding.

Although, in most instances In have less to work with in the way of action or emotion than at a wedding or news event, my goal is always the same: tell the story with visuals that surprise and delight.

Here are a few classic black-and-white edits from an Emory Medical School Alumni event that took place at The Estates on Piedmont in the fall.

Event Photographer in Atlanta.

Josh and Ean's Newnan Center Vow Renewal

Josh and Ean’s story is special. As special as their vow renewal at the Newnan Centre.

Here are a few favorites from their wedding.

Dana and Derek's Lost World Wedding Slideshow

Some weddings just feel like home.

Dana and Derek’s was one of those … laid back, comfortable, fun, with lots of great food, drink and laughter.

Here’s a slideshow of favorites from the day.

Mary Martha and Nathan's Georgia Freight Depot Reception

A few weeks ago I posted favorite photos from the early part of Mary Martha and Nathan’s wedding day.

Today, I’m sharing a few favorite photos from their reception, which took place at The Georgia Freight Depot.

Emerald Empire Band

Smooth As Butter Wedding Planning

Georgia Freight Depot

Why I Love Second Shooting: Part II

A lot of couples prefer two photographers. The main photographer is referred to as the primary shooter. And the extra photographer is referred to as the second shooter.

While, some photographers work in teams, others hire second shooters as needed.

So sometimes, I am called upon to fill the second shooter shoes. Which is actually a lot of fun. While the primary shooter is expected to get all the important photos. The second shooter works under a lot less stress to come up with photos of unexpected moments and photos of expected moments from a different angle.

Here are a few favorites from a wedding at Kimball Hall I second shot with my photo friend Manuel Llaneras.

Second shooters are often tasked with taking detail shots, like this ring photo.

Groomsmen have spotted a pack of Poke”mon Go players.

Offering up the ring.

Another angle of the bride and groom leaving the ceremony.

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First Two WPJA Winners for 2019

I’m happy to share my first two Wedding Photojournalism Association award winners for 2019. I go into every wedding eager to find the next award-winning moment. I don’t always manage to come home with a photo that will win an award from the WPJA or another organization. And that’s not really the goal.

The ultimate goal is to always come home with photos my clients love.

Both photos below were taking while I was second shooting.

Photo taken while second shooting for my friend, Manuel Llaneras.

Photo taken while second shooting for my friend Kara Johnson.

Looking for a photograph in Atlanta who will take photographs of your wedding that you’ll love?
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A Faith-Centered Wedding at Holy Trinity Episcopal in Decatur

Mary Martha and Nathan’s lives center around their faith and so it was no surprise that they would plan a faith-focused wedding, as well.

According to Mary Martha, “Although we also looked forward to the reception, the ceremony was the most important part of our wedding day.”

Their service followed that traditional Episcopal celebration and blessing of marriage, complete with communion. Mary Martha said that it was important the they celebrate the sacrament with friends and family.

While the ceremony was Episcopal at its core, it incorporated aspects of Nathan’s Quaker tradition. And friends and family played different roles from reader, to acolyte, to organist and choir member

Here are a few favorites from before the ceremony, while Mary Martha and Nathan were getting ready. And a few more from their ceremony, taken inconspicuously from the sides and the back of the sanctuary.

Wedding Planner, Smooth As Butter

Church, Holy Trinity Episcopal

Venue, The Georgia Freight Depot

Atlanta wedding photographer