.:Savor Photography Blog:.

Moved!

2009-06-06T14:06:00.003-04:00

Hey guys! I've moved! I've got a nice new blog home over here: http://www.savorphotographyblog.com/

Please be sure to update your Google reader, bloglines and bookmarks. I'd hate to lose you!

Come on over and visit!

The Harris Family: A Confession

2009-06-04T13:56:00.003-04:00

The Harris Family will always be special to me. They were my first real clients back in November. I can still vividly remember how sick with nerves I was as I pulled up to their house for the first time. But Allison and Eddie are the kind of people that make you feel at ease instantly.

And since I'm about to go public with this story tomorrow, I have a funny story about that very first shoot. Well, it's funny now, but it was SO NOT FUNNY at the time! When I got home from Eddie and Allison's first shoot, I eagerly plugged in my memory card and started transferring the files. With all my anxiousness to see them, I started looking through them before they had all transferred. All of the sudden, the transfer stopped and the files went blank. When I tried to open them, I got a corrupted file message. I took the card out, my heart starting to pound in my chest, and put it in the camera. The camera didn't recognize the files either. I stood there for a moment letting the information sink in. Soon, I was sobbing on the floor telling my husband I quit and I was putting all my equipment on ebay. I can be a little dramatic sometimes.

He looked at me, rolled his eyes in a loving way, grabbed the card did a little research, and within a half hour, every single one of my files were recovered. I have never felt so much love for that man.

To me, the biggest compliment I can ever get as a photographer is when someone books more than one session. And Eddie and Allison came back for more. They like me! Yay! I guess that was before they knew about the card fiasco.

Here they are, the beautiful Harris family. Thanks for believing in me!

We were fortunate to be downtown as a train passed by. Ramsey was fascinated by it.

I love this picture so much I could hang it on my own wall!

Ramsey has the cutest wardrobe ever. Even her little pants are monogrammed!

Rachel's Family

2009-06-01T10:22:00.002-04:00

We start out every conversation something like this:

"Hi Rachel, it's Rachel."
"Hey, Rachel!"

Rachel and her beautiful family asked me to take some pictures of them on the golf course that they run. It was a beautiful sunny day and the golf course is full of beautiful greens, blue skies, ponds, and mud. Uh oh! Roughly 5 minutes into the session, Carson, their youngest, found his way to the mud. I know Rachel got upset over it, but I told her not to worry. We'd get some beautiful shots anyway. And I think we did!

Hello, gorgeous eyes!

The picture on the left was right after Carson got into the mud. But I think this one is one of my favorites!

Pretty sure golf is in their blood.

Do you know how I finally got Carson to smile? To talk about Honey Buns! Mom was on her way to go get some while I snapped these. We were having a conversation about how big he thought it would be and how good it would taste!

I just love these boys. And Rachel. And, well, all of them! Thanks for letting me ride along in the golf c art with you!

The Wheeler Family

2009-05-31T23:08:00.002-04:00

I was pretty excited to get the email that the family of gorgeous baby Elijah (remember him?) wanted to get some family pictures. They're a beautiful family and it had been far too long since I saw little Elijah. He's grown so big! And he's got a few new tricks since we last met.

Check this little guy out.

Yes, we live in North Carolina. And yes, it was roughly 90 degrees when we put the hat on. But it was so cute, how could we not?

Yeah, I'm not gonna lie. I'm a bit nervous about this next one. I hope Elijah's dad doesn't get mad at me for posting these. He's a super tough football coach at a local college and wants to maintain his tough guy image. But come on. How cute is this! I bet Mom will like it! I promise not to send this to the football players, if it makes you feel any better.

Emily is so gorgeous in these, isn't she?

Our final stop was the locker room. I'm guessing Elijah's got a future in football!

And Emily and Matt, it was a pleasure! Thanks for being good sports.

Thank You, Granny!

2009-05-24T16:58:00.003-04:00

This morning, we headed downtown for an impromptu session with the kids. Normally, Sundays would be spent in church, but we've had so many sickness issues with my baby that we've decided to keep her out til everything has passed.

This session was in honor of granny, who lives in Scotland. She sent Chloe a new dress. We couldn't wait to show Granny how beautiful Chloe looks in it! And plus, this blog was overdue for a post about my beautiful kiddos.

And, just to keep it real...

Hope you have a happy Memorial Day!

Em & Nate: Down the Aisle!

2009-05-22T16:51:00.007-04:00

Last weekend, I went up to the area in NY where I grew up to shoot a friend's wedding. We went to high school together, but it's doubtful we would have kept in touch like we do if it weren't for the wonders of social media. In the last few years, we've followed each others' blogs and been friends on Facebook. She saw my career grow from my first DSLR to where it is now and I got to follow her love story on her blog from beginnings to marriage.

(In fact, go read about her story here and her engagement here!)

I also was able to work with (and meet!) the very talented Amanda Slakes of Amanda Slakes Photography. We've been in correspondence for a while and it was really fun to be able to work with her.

I know everybody's anxious for the pictures, so here they are, after six looong days!

This is Emily and her twin sister, Bethany moments before the ceremony. I couldn't hear what they were saying, but I could tell it was special.

While we were posing the bridal party, Nate grabbed Emily and bent her backwards and kissed her. I love when spontaneous stuff like this happens!

Here's me and Emily.

And since I couldn't post 60 pictures, take a look at the video!

Happy ever after, Emily and Nate. It was such a joy to be there on your day.

Emily and Nate

2009-05-21T18:36:00.002-04:00

I've got editing up to my eyeballs to sort through. But in the meantime, here's my beautiful friend Emily and her new husband, Nate.

Hope you two are enjoying your honeymoon!

Brian & Anna: First comes Love

2009-05-16T07:57:00.003-04:00

When I think about Brian and Anna, one word comes to mind: sweet. Sweet like sugar. They way he looks at her, the way she holds his hand, it all makes me smile.

I had fun with these two. I think my favorite part was when I ran out to my car to change a memory card, and I came back in on a special moment between the them. I love how photography can do that. They were lost in their own little world and let me capture it.

I totally can't wait until October! Here are a few of my favorites.

Oh, and Brian and Anna, (and all my previous clients), you'll be happy to know my husband bought me a step ladder, so these days are over! I will miss my trusty little bar stool though. :)

To see more, watch the video below.

Beth & Aaron: Down the Aisle

2009-05-11T18:20:00.004-04:00

There were severe thunderstorm warnings forecasted, but it didn't matter. Beth and Aaron loved each other and would hold each others' hands in marriage no matter what the weather. As they pledged their lives to each other, the held each others' hands palms up, as to represent the gift that they were. But despite the warnings, there wasn't any rain. Just a beautiful, sunny day, full of joy as two became one.

Here are a few of my favorites from the day.

And since I could go on forever, here's a little slideshow of some more of my favorites.

Beth and Aaron, I'm so honored that you invited me to be the one to capture these moments for you. Your day was beautiful and I wish you every happiness together. Hope your running lasts a lifetime!

Coming Attraction

2009-05-03T22:38:00.004-04:00

Meet Anna & Brian. They're engaged! Here's a taste of what's to come.

Ellory

2009-05-03T12:19:00.003-04:00

She likes books, kittens, mama and she's happiest with a cracker in her hand. Ellory is two in its glory!

And this is it - my favorite! I think it totally shows the family dynamic. I love it!

Kat and Larry, thank you for letting me be the one to capture Ellory at such a fun and precious age!

This is Ellory.

2009-04-25T21:02:00.002-04:00

I got to spend time with this little beauty today. More of her to come!

Sisters, Sisters

2009-04-23T21:09:00.003-04:00

Jane was an only child for thirteen years. That was until the war finished and her Dad came back. A year later, the family grew once more and Jane had a baby sister.

"It was like I had a doll," she fondly remembered. She went on to tell me about how they grew up with their cousins, how both she and her sister met their husbands-to-be by the time they were thirteen years old, and most shockingly, that they hadn't had a picture together in over thirty years.

I can't even began to say what an honor it was to be the one to capture these shots.

After the shoot, we went inside to chat and look at pictures of them as girls. I love seeing old photographs and hearing the stories. I only wish I could have recorded their stories!

Featured Site

2009-04-20T10:17:00.003-04:00

My website is being featured at PhotoBiz, the company that hosts my site. I'm really excited! Go check it out here.

And if you're a photographer, I wholeheartedly recommend PhotoBiz. They're awesome! If you decide to sign up, I'd love to refer you!

Kyle, Class of '09

2009-04-10T23:15:00.003-04:00

He's any mother's dream. Smart, handsome, and polite. He told me about football and soccer, about his 4.0 and scholarships, about being in the play at church, and about his dreams of studying medicine, likely at UAB. But I had to coax it out of him. He's not one to brag. He was far more interested in telling me about the random girl from Utah who got stuck in his lawn on prom night! It was such a pleasure and definitely a lot of fun to photograph Kyle, who, along with his many other talents, had a knack for being photographed. Kyle will no doubt go far in life.

Thanks for the opportunity to travel to Huntsville to shoot these!

Coming Up

2009-04-05T23:23:00.002-04:00

I'm going back home tomorrow. But in the meantime, here's what's brewing.

Shannon & Sara

2009-04-04T18:05:00.002-04:00

It's her smile that convinced me. Sara, my dear friend from college is dating Shannon. This was the first time I met him. And although he's nice as can be, brought her flowers and they have a good time together, it was only when I saw her true smile that I knew this guy was a good one for her.

I've always joked around with Sara about her smile. Telling her she's got a funny photo smile. Shannon brings out her real smile. I officially approve.

Sweet Home

2009-04-03T16:55:00.003-04:00

I made it to Alabama! Or I should say I just barely made it. Let's just say forgetting your wallet and landing in a place with tornadoes touching down doesn't make for smooth travel. And to top it off, my poor baby is still very sick, but she's in the very capable hands of Daddy.

I'm staying with my friend and her roommate who's a great decorator. I had so much fun wandering around the house admiring all the cool little touches. I think I'll have to hire her when we move!

See those flowers on the left? Sara's boyfriend showed up with those in hand. And if that wasn't sweet enough, Sara actually had to move the other flowers he had given her previously to make room! (This guy's got a lot to live up to in the future!)

And that green chair! I wish that was sitting in my kitchen.

I love containers and bottles like this. So fun.

That bedspread? Anthropologie!

But the biggest wonder of all? Being able to go on a trip with just ONE suitcase!

Behind the Scenes

2009-04-01T18:30:00.002-04:00

A friend of mine came over to help out with Kendall's shoot. She snapped a few pictures while I was shooting which I'm pretty amused at. If you book with me, here's a bit of what you'll get!

In other news, I'm headed to Alabama tomorrow. It's my first official business trip. And first time away from my baby. Sniff!

Welcome Kendall!

2009-03-30T22:34:00.003-04:00

I have a confession.

I tried to pay attention during Sunday School last Sunday. I was really focusing hard. But someone there was distracting me. Someone so gorgeous I couldn't help but stare. Even my husband was looking. Little Kendall, who didn't even make a peep, was sitting behind me. I couldn't wait to take her pictures and photograph her gorgeous head of hair. I'm totally jealous of it. And I think it's pretty safe to say that you will be too, by the end of this post. Just take a look:

Molly

2009-03-27T17:05:00.004-04:00

When I got the email asking about scheduling a session for a baby named Molly, I immediately knew I was going to love this baby. With a name like Molly, how could I not?

And then when her mother said they were getting ready to move to England, I knew our session was going to be fun. There would be lots to talk about! I used to live in England and I started making mental lists of everything I wished someone had told me before I moved there.

And truth be told, I'm a little jealous. As much as I missed America, I do miss England now that I'm back. So enjoy your move, drink some Innocent Smoothies for me and most of all, enjoy the online grocery shopping!

Just in case they forget their roots...

2009-03-26T08:56:00.001-04:00

Guess what I'm working on.

More of this little cutie to come!

Beth & Aaron: Engaged!

2009-03-22T22:35:00.003-04:00

They owe it to the 5K. They spotted each other during the run and afterward he asked her to go get something to eat with him. They knew there was something special from that first meal, a familiarity that just felt right. It was the beginning of their relationship. Their long-distance relationship. She was in Virginia, he was in North Carolina. After months of hour long phone and Skype conversations and visits back and forth, they knew they were ready for something more.

She packed up all her belongings and moved to North Carolina with her faith in love. And on New Year's Eve, he asked her to run with him for the rest of her life.

Beth and Aaron, I'm so honored that you've chosen me to tell your story. I'm looking forward to the big day in May!

Beth & Aaron Teaser

2009-03-22T15:57:00.001-04:00

I'm furiously working through picture after picture of this engagement session. Stay tuned for more of these two!

She's Two!

2009-03-16T20:55:00.003-04:00

When she answered the door, she had a hand full of balloon strings and a sleeveless pink, frilly dress on. She looked fabulous, like a two-year-old girl should look. And in two-year-old girl fashion, she made it a point to say the balloons are mine!

This girl sure knows how to party. My own child clung to me with the noise of happiness surrounding us. I sat in a room full of women who have become my support and my friends over the past few months, enjoying sips of coffee interrupted by shouts of "stop that!" and "please share!" The familiar happiness of chaos is a comfort to me. Peace and quiet are nice, but there's nothing like seeing the pure joy of children as they have fun. And let me tell you, these kids are fun. But their faces can tell you that.

Check out this dress. It's one of my favorite things about being a girl mom!

And here's mom, ready to serve hot dogs to that many people in her living room!

Can I tell you something? Birthday parties with good drinks are a bonus. And frappuccinos are definitely in that category!

Look at that big girl in her big girl bed!

Thanks for having us over, Hannah! Watch out mom, two's gonna be good!

More Good Weather?

2009-03-12T14:32:00.003-04:00

With the weekend forecasts to be cold and dreary, we took another shot at some warm weather fun.

Being at the beach with my camera gave me an itch to come back for portraits. An engagement session maybe? Sounds like fun to me!

I have such a hard time getting pictures of Noah. He's too busy being a boy to look into the camera. And it doesn't help when the photographer is mom.

This girl has some serious blue eyes. Reflected off the ocean, they're some serious blue eyes times 100.

Yes, Noah is almost always this sweet to his sister. He's an awesome big brother.

This is Noah in the middle of his silly dance, which often ends with a protruding butt move. Love the face!

Hi Chloe! Time to go now. Nooooo!

The Obligatory Warm Weather Post

2009-03-08T20:20:00.003-04:00

Today: 80 degree weather + 2 small children + one long NC winter = pure bliss!

Okay, so I grew up in the Rochester, NY area. Winters lasted a good six months. Since I moved South, I'm a total weather WIMP! I don't do cold anymore. It was about time we had some nice weather around here!

Noah vs the t-ball. His only issue with it: he had to go get the ball once he hit it. Lazy thing! He is quite a good "sporter" though, in his words.

While Daddy painted the garage, Chloe discovered some old toys. See that mark on her knee? Her first skinned knee. Poor girl. She's a tough one, though.

This picture totally sums up my girl: big, blue eyes and full of personality.

Hope some beautiful weather found you as well. Enjoy it while it lasts because, at least around here, it's getting cold again soon. What is up with that?

2009-03-04T08:29:00.002-05:00

A video project is in the works for Savor Photography. I'm looking for an attractive couple willing to model for the project. This would be perfect for an engaged or newly married couple. And the best part is - you get a free mini-session!

Contact me for all the details.

Welcome Cannon!

2009-02-20T14:31:00.002-05:00

Remember this beautiful family?

Baby makes four!

I can wrap up this session in one word:

Awwww!

Huntsville, Alabama

2009-02-18T08:39:00.002-05:00

Remember my gorgeous friend Sara? Well, her pictures have been such a hit that I've had travel requests to go to Huntsville. And it doesn't take much - I mean, another chance to see Sara and a chance to meet cool new clients? Sounds good to me!

If you're interested in a Huntsville session, please email me at: rachel at savorphotography dot com (if you want the link, just click on Contact on the nav bar). Let me know what kind of session you're interested in and your top choice for dates. I'm thinking early April at this point.

For more information about sessions, you can visit the Savor Photography site.

Thanks!

Wanted!

2009-02-10T10:46:00.003-05:00

As winter slowly turns to Spring (can you believe how lovely this weather is?!), I'm turning my focus towards rising high school seniors. I'm beginning my search for 2009-2010 senior reps.

Senior reps will get a pretty sweet deal. They'll get their pictures done for free and print credit. In return, the reps will tell their friends about their experience with Savor Photography.

Do you think you have what it takes to be a senior rep? Or do you know someone who does?

Applicants should meet the following criteria:

Be a rising senior (current junior) in a Rocky Mount or surrounding high school
Be outgoing and fun!
Be comfortable in front of the camera and photogenic
Have good academic standing
Be willing to attend occasional senior rep meetings

I will probably be choosing a male and female rep at each area high school. If you're interested, email me at: rachel at savorphotography dot com

I look forward to hearing from you!

The Rues

2009-02-08T20:31:00.004-05:00

If you think you don't have time for family pictures, think again!

Take this family, the Rue family, otherwise known as my sister and her family. Although we had big plans for this shoot, due to bizarre circumstances, they had to cut it short. The whole thing from start to finish was roughly ten minutes. But even so, there are some pretty cute shots! So if you're a family on the go, don't worry - we can still get some amazing pictures to save the moments. Savor the moments, to be more precise!

Also, how are we liking the logo?

Sara

2009-02-06T13:28:00.004-05:00

These past few days have been spent with my dear friend and former roommate, Sara. I was so excited when Sara told me she was coming to visit! I also left her a little facebook warning to be prepared for a photo shoot. (If you're on facebook, don't forget to check out Savor Photography and become a fan!) She said that sounded like fun.

Well... that was before we knew we'd be faced with 30 degree weather and SNOW. That's right. It has snowed on two occasions this year, one occurring on a day on which we were going to be traipsing around downtown with short sleeved shirts on. (And again, we meaning Sara!)

But take a look at this girl! You can't even tell how freezing cold she was. What a trooper. And isn't she hot?

Thanks for visiting Sara! We miss you already!

Favorite!

Almost favorite. You know what I find so interesting about portraits? I almost never have the same favorites as the person in the portrait (except for children). And I've come to realize it's because people see themselves so differently than everyone else sees them. Take this picture. From the second I took it, I loved it. Sara took one look and said "No way." I love the look in her eyes. She hates it. Interesting, huh?

Don't tell, but we had to go past a "Do not enter" sign for this picture. I'm such a rule-follower, but phoography is really breaking that for me!

Doesn't she look amazing?

Welcome Elijah

2009-02-02T17:08:00.005-05:00

As I drove over to my friend Emily's house, I gave myself a stern talk:

I do not want another baby.
I do NOT want another baby.
I DO not want another baby.
I DO NOT want another baby!

I knew it would be necessary because of the cuteness and tinyness overload. And I was right. One look at little Elijah, and I was smitten. This was my first baby, in the photography sense, and I had heard enough to know it requires a lot of patience, flexibility, time, and ducking from pee. We did our best to get him asleep (and we, of course, meaning mom) but the poor thing wasn't used to being repositioned while he slept. I can't blame the poor guy! But I promised him that it would all be worth it. To mom, of course.

I kinda sorta promised Emily that she would not appear in any pictures. I hope she won't hate me! But I think we'll all agree that she looks completely beautiful in this picture. Emily told me that she has a really sore neck right now because of all the looking down at Elijah. I can't blame her! He's such a perfect little baby.

Thanks, Emily, Matt and Elijah, for letting me come meet your little guy! He's so sweet!

And cute...

And little...

And perfect...

I do not want another baby....

Snow Day!

2009-01-20T20:13:00.004-05:00

We don't often get snow here in NC, so when we do, it's a treat! It was Chloe's first snow that she got to play in, and it was Noah's first American snow. Does that count?

She absolutely loved. She was happy to dive right in.

Noah was more concerned with learning how to make "fighting snow" (snow balls).

They don't make 'em cuter. Coats and little girls.

And little jeans...

And little boots...

What can I say about my husband? He's very task-oriented. He set off straight away to make the snow man. And when we're at the beach, he gets straight to making sand castles. Hard worker, he is.

No snow day is complete without tickles from daddy, and hot chocolate.

The only down side is that I had a newborn scheduled for today and we couldn't shoot due to the weather. Hopefully I'll get to her tomorrow!

There's Something About Elmo

2009-01-15T13:26:00.002-05:00

We're not sure when it happened, really. I mean, sure, Elmo was around the house here and there. He was in a few books. A few movies. But not enough to make a difference. Or so I thought.

Then one day when I was changing her diaper, she said it clear as day.

"Elmo."

"Elmo?" What was she trying to communicate to me while changing her diaper? Was she just daydreaming about her furry little friend? It took days for me to figure out that on the back of every single diaper is an Elmo. Every time I changed her, she saw the back of the diaper, and was letting me know who she saw.

Elmo has been a slippery slope for little Chloe. She's crazy about the guy. She can't be bothered with the TV unless Elmo is on it. And the only books worth reading are the Elmo ones. Now it's Elmo shirts and Elmo potty seats.

This little girl's got it bad.

Waiting for Cannon

2009-01-10T23:09:00.005-05:00

April and Joey and their little girl have just weeks left before their lives are changed forever. Soon a little baby boy named Cannon will make his way into the world and snuggle himself further into the hearts of this family. The excitement and anticipation are palpable, especially from big sister who proudly informed me she would be changing poopy diapers.

But before the new chapter in their lives begin, we had some fun today playing, in what I could only title, "Waiting for Cannon". This family is just gorgeous, and let me tell you, big sister is so much fun! She came full of great ideas, awesome model poses (watch out mom and dad!) and big, beautiful eyes. Just take a look.

Joey and April, thanks so much for letting me tag along today! You're an awesome family, so much fun, and I can't wait to get my lens on little Cannon!

Because I wanted to.

2009-01-07T21:01:00.005-05:00

My first real shoot with the new camera isn't til Saturday. But let's be honest. I'm a girl that sometimes lacks patience. And the very thought of my poor camera and my poor blog going unused for three whole days is horrifying.

So being the compassionate person that I am I'm going to post. You know, for the blog's sake. And the camera.

Ummmm, yeah.

Whenever my husband or I ask our son why he did something naughty, his response is usually "Because I wanted to." It's a bit irritating to hear, but I don't really ask for the right answer. I ask because I'm trying to help him think about his choices.

So, really, that's why I posted this one. Because I wanted to. :)

Anyway, I had some fun chasing my kiddos around this morning. Did you know I live with Charlie Brown? A very silly one at that.

I couldn't decide if I liked this picture in color or in b&w better. So bonus! Two for the price of one!

And then a trip down to the lake by our house produced these:

I'll try to restrain myself from posting too many more before the real ones on Saturday. But I can't promise.

New Year

2009-01-06T20:58:00.001-05:00

New year, new camera. Things are just going to keep getting better! It's going to be an awesome year at Savor Photography!

Makenna Turns One

2008-12-30T22:24:00.003-05:00

My niece turned one last weekend and my sister asked me to be the designated picture-taker for the birthday party. I believe the term is called photographer or something. :) Anyway, taking pictures of this little girl is fun.

Why?

Because she's my niece, she's beautiful, and she DOESN'T LIKE TO MOVE AROUND! Ah, a dream!

The packaging is always more fun than the gifts at this age!

I bet you recognize that other little girl. You should! That's my beautiful Chloe! She loves playing with Makenna. Literally. We think that Chloe thinks Makenna is one of her dolls.

This is my favorite picture. Like I said, Makenna's not much of a mover. They got her a walker for her birthday to see if that might give her the desire to start walking. At first she wasn't so sure, but she soon figured it out. See her grandpa and grandma back there? I think they're pretty proud!

And I think she is, too!

Length of time party hat stayed on her head: 1/160th of a second. Just enough time to take the picture!

Ah, the cake. The climax and sugar high of the one year birthday. Let the frosting smearing begin!

Not so much. This little princess prefers the civilized approach.

Happy birthday, little Makenna! We're so glad we got to spend it with you.

The Christmas Post

2008-12-27T12:17:00.006-05:00

Even though I have a personal blog to post these kind of pictures, I though I'd give you a glimpse of my family life. Christmas day was full of fun, excitement, happiness, and CHAOS! My sister, her husband and her two children joined our crew of two kids, two parents, and two grandparents to open gifts. That made for two spoiling grandparents, four exasperated parents, four over-sugared children, and of course a partridge in a pear tree.

Books reigned supreme this Christmas. I'm fortunate to have kiddos that adore books! For Chloe, anything with cats was a hit. For Noah, one of his books was Pete's a Pizza, his new alltime fav.

Blocks are fun...

But boxes are better!

Noah was thrilled to be able to hand out presents.

For my Dad, a director, theater teacher, and wholehearted musical lover and calendar lover, what could get better than this?

This is my beautiful niece Makenna, who turns one in just a few days!

A talking doll for her... (this is her happy or mad face)

and twins for Chloe!

She was thrilled with this box. All she wanted to do was sit on top of it with her dolls. So what it if it's actually a present for someone else?!

For Michal, I couldn't resist giving him this. And I sure hope you don't need explanation!

This is my Dad with Noah and my nephew Braydon. Grandma got them matching pajamas!

For my sister and her husband, we gave them some money. But since money is no fun to give as a present, we had to make it interesting. We found a cheap car vacuum (and if you know my sister, this is a joke in itself!) and put the money deep inside it. As we gave them their gift, we told them it was one big git for the both of them. Imagine their disappointment to find just a car vac! They tried, but they couldn't hide it from their faces. Check out this series of pictures. I keep teasing them about how ungrateful they were for a car vac!

And when Chloe opened this hat from her great-grandmother, I couldn't wait to take pictures of her in it.

I love this little girl. Can you tell?

Not pictured - the Wii (I'm horrible turns out!) and the Manfrotto tripod and head (yay!) and the Brittish-American dictionary. Hopefully useful in eliminating the language barrier in my marriage. :) (Could have used that when we lived in England!) I hope your Christmas was wonderful! And if you've just gotten engaged, I'd be honored to take your engagement and wedding pictures!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T21:27:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas from Savor Photography! I'm sincerely thankful for all of you who have made my first few months a success. Your support has meant the world to me.

Storyboards - Rocky Mount, NC Photographer

2008-12-21T14:25:00.004-05:00

I did a family session for these little cuties last month. Mom wanted a storyboard for each. These are so fun to make and come in a variety of sizes. These two are 10x20 and are mounted on a foam core.

Just Because

2008-12-19T11:03:00.002-05:00

My son had his first Christmas program last night and being the proud momma that I was, I took pictures of the occasion. Noah doesn't usually let me take pictures of him, so this was a treat!

Family Session - Rocky Mount, NC Photographer

2008-12-08T10:34:00.002-05:00

On Saturday I got to be the very first to take family pictures of this gorgeous family. What an honor! Mom is a friend of mine and when she asked me to do their pictures I couldn't wait because their little girl is such a beauty. When she came over, it was so much fun. This little girl is such a GIRL! She loves pink, frilly things and flowers. She wouldn't let go of them. She was so excited when she saw them, she made sure both mom and dad understood how much she liked them.

Anyway, here are a few of my favorites. Isn't this family beautiful?

Cyber Monday Sale

2008-12-01T09:56:00.005-05:00

I had never considered doing a Cyber Monday sale, but I saw another photographer doing a similar offer and thought I'd offer it, too!

From now til Saturday, you can purchase any gift card of any value up to $400 for half price. Give the gift that lasts a lifetime - memories! It's a great gift for family, friends, expectant or new mothers, or for yourself! You'll receive a hard copy of your gift card to put under the tree.

Gift cards can be redeemed from January through April, 2009. Gift cards cannot be combined with any other offer.

Buying is as simple as using the button below. Be sure to include the address where you want the card shipped. Cards may also be purchased in person. Email me via the contact button or through the contact form at http://www.savorphotography.com for more information.

Chloe Grace's One Year Pictures - Rocky Mount, NC Photographer

2008-11-30T20:59:00.005-05:00

One of the best things about being a photographer is being able to take pictures when the mood strikes and having the gratification of playing around with them instantly.

Like today. Chloe was looking especially cute and so we decided to get her one year pictures done. And it just reaffirmed to me that she is the most beautiful little girl in. the. world. And it's okay for you to think that yours is. We'll just agree to disagree. :)

And voila! Done and out for printing all in less than a day.

I pride myself on having a very quick turn around period. People usually have their proofs within two to three days of the shoot and can have prints in hand in just a few more days after that. That means there's still time to get family portraits and custom cards made in time for Christmas!

Family Session - Rocky Mount, NC Photographer

2008-11-28T21:15:00.002-05:00

Chad and Hannah came to me with two goals in mind: to get a Christmas card photo and to get their your youngest son's one year old pictures done. When I first pulled the camera out in front of the little guy, he looked stright at me and smiled. I was thrilled because I've never had a baby that was really happy to have their pictures done. He must have sensed it, though because right after that, both kiddos busted out their one and three year old selves! But it's okay, because kids are kids and kids are full of personality. Personality, and big blue eyes!

This portrait session also had a twist. This family's photo would not be complete without their dog. Trying to get two children and a dog not just to look at me, but to smile, was a challenge, but I think we got it! Have a look...

Ahh! Come on. How many one year olds are cool enough to strike this pose?! I LOVE this one!

By this point, the little one was just not in the mood to smile any more. That is, until mom held him upside down. I love the feel of this picture. It really reflects the family!

Eddie, Allison, and Ramsey - Rocky Mount, NC Photographer

2008-11-24T22:59:00.004-05:00

I was really excited to be able to take Eddie, Allison, and Ramsey's pictures, but once I got to their house, I was even more excited. It was full of amazing places to take pictures. They have a sweet little girl who cooperated with me putting silly things on her head even though it was almost nap time. She was such a doll! I can only hope I get back there to do some more someday!

Ramsey - A teaser! Rocky Mount, NC Photographer

2008-11-23T22:25:00.003-05:00

Today I got to play with Allison, Eddie, and little Ramsey. I've got TONS of pictures, but I couldn't wait to put up at least one today! There are more to come!

A November Wedding and an Awesome Teacher

2008-11-16T23:07:00.003-05:00

On Saturday I was able to be a second shooter for a brilliant Raleigh photographer. I am so truly appreciative for the time he spent teaching me about my flash, camera, and passing on some excellent advice. It was such an honor to work with him!

Chloe Grace

2008-11-14T16:49:00.004-05:00

My kids are the reason I got into photography and my inspiration to keep learning and growing as a photographer. I just love taking pictures of them!

Chloe Grace is my little girl. She's days shy of one year old, has beautiful red hear and bright blue eyes. One of my biggest joys of being the mom of a girl is girl clothes! And hair bows! And cute little shoes! I managed to keep a bow in her hair for nearly ten minutes today - a new record and just enough time to take a few pictures of it.

Melanie - Rocky Mount, NC Photographer

2008-11-13T20:09:00.004-05:00

Wednesday brought sunny skies, crisp Autumn weather, bright, colorful leaves and the chance to photograph a celebrity. True! In the horse world, at least. Melanie and her mother, Nadine, both have world champion titles in reining and operate a local ranch. Melanie is a senior and is being recruited from colleges for her talent in the sport of reining. We had a great time taking her senior pictures!

Melanie, you were a pleasure to photograph and an absolutely beautiful girl, inside and out. Good luck and enjoy being a senior!

Matt & Olivia - Rocky Mount, NC photographer

2008-11-09T23:22:00.004-05:00

I used to work with Olivia and she's actually the first person I ever agreed to take pictures of.... months ago! We've just now gotten around to it and had a lot of fun. Her and Matt's little boy is named Noah, just like mine. Noah fully cooperated, but had a list of demands like a bottle and playing with daddy that we met for him to smile.

Matt & Olivia, you have a beautiful family. Thanks for letting me be the first to introduce Noah to mud, dirty hands and grim!

I love this next one. It's what photo shoots are all about: mom and dad doing anything to make their cuties smile!

Melissa & Quentin - Rocky Mount, NC Photographer

2008-11-09T20:46:00.007-05:00

Quentin and Melissa are friends from church so it was especially fun to be able to take some maternity pictures for them before their family grows from three to four. Melissa is absolutely glowing so taking good pictures of their family was a breeze!

Congratulations, Melissa and Quentin. I can't wait to meet the little one!

Christmas Cards

2008-11-09T20:40:00.002-05:00

It's not to late to order custom Christmas cards from Savor Photography! I'm happy to create original cards with existing photos or you can schedule a card photo shoot with your family.

Cards are custom made and allow for pictures on both sides. Pricing is as follows and include envelopes and shipping:

For 4" x 5.5" cards, a set of 24 is $39.
For 5" x 7" cards, each set is $48.

To add gloss, it's $2/set extra.

MaryBeth and Michael - Rocky Mount, NC photographer

2008-11-08T21:00:00.004-05:00

On Friday, I had the privilege of photographing MaryBeth and Michael, just weeks before their little girl enters the world. Being with them brought back memories of this time last year, when I too was expecting my little girl. Michael and MaryBeth were so easygoing and adventurous in their photo shoot. MaryBeth was a trooper following my crazy ideas for some good shots at 38 weeks!

Good luck, MaryBeth and Michael! I know you'll make great parents to your precious little girl. I can't wait to hear the news that she's here!

Bonnie and Scott - Rocky Mount Wedding Photography

2008-11-02T23:09:00.001-05:00

Sunday afternoon was the perfect time for Scott and Bonnie to put their wedding clothes back on and go play. The weather was perfect, the leaves were colorful, and the newlyweds looked stunning. Although it was a trash the dress style photoshoot, Bonnie didn't really trash the dress, but she wasn't afraid to get dirty!

Bonnie and Scott were so much fun to work with. Bonnie had some great ideas and her face just lit up throughout the shoot. I'm glad we were able to capture these memories for you guys! Congratulations again, and here's to 40 years and a canoe. :)

The H Family

2008-10-25T13:17:00.000-04:00

The H family was really fun to photograph because the kids were just like mine - 3, nearly 1, and so full of life that they would far rather enjoy it than sit and be photographed! That made the day really fun! We laughed, ate lollipops, ran after them, and even got a bloody lip. But it all turned out well, and I think the pictures did too!

Braydon and Makenna

2008-10-19T21:21:00.000-04:00

A beautiful day and two beautiful children make for a fun time in the woods! And although Braydon was far more interested in fighting the bad guys with his lightsaber, he still gave us some great smiles!

A Trip to the Fire Station

2008-10-17T21:12:00.000-04:00

One of our local fire stations was kind enough to give a tour to a moms group I'm a part. Thanks, firemen!

2008-10-16T15:04:00.000-04:00

Chloe is full of life and personality. Although she's always on the go, we were able to snap a few great shots!

Rocky Mount, NC Wedding Photography & Portraiture

2008-10-16T10:37:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Rocky Mount's newest wedding and portrait photographer. I'll be posting my latest work here.

Be sure to visit the site!