Native Sky Photography blog » Virginia Wedding Photographer

Tara Staton’s DC Workshop | DC, Virginia, and Maryland Portrait Photographer

admin — Sat, 05 Feb 2011 19:50:07 +0000

So last September I hosted a workshop for Tara Staton, an incredible photographer, instructor, mentor, and friend. It was one of the most phenomenal experiences I’ve ever had! To organize and prepare for Tara’s workshop, I canvassed this great city of ours with ardent fervor and a powerful determination to leave no stone unturned regarding locations, permits, lodging, facilities, transportation, and entertainment! I also have the fortune of knowing lots of wonderful and gorgeous locals who I (and with the help of attendee Stacey Bahr – thank you, Stacey! And friend, Jennifer Burns – thank you, Jennifer!) recruited as willing and enthusiastic models, and all of the workshop attendees were truly thrilled to have them as their subjects. We had the opportunity to work with families, children, couples, and high school seniors. This was my first time shooting seniors, and I had a BLAST! I can’t wait to photograph more of them! And aahhh…the attendees! What a fabulous group of gals! It was such a blessing to meet these ladies and learn with them. We got to know each other very well and forged great friendships that will last, for sure. I also spent lots of time talking with the National Park Service as well as the super-nice folks at the Capitol Police Headquarters to learn all I would need to know for shooting in the city, and who had jurisdiction over which sections of DC — I had to make sure that we were following all the rules, obeying all the laws, and that we were obtaining all the necessary permits for our locations. For nearly four days we gathered at the vacation rental I lined up in the city for lodging and class time, and then we traveled with Dave Hinton from DTT Transportation (definitely look him up next time you travel to and within the city — Dave is fantastic!) to various and diverse locations for hands-on shooting practice with our models. Not only did I learn more about photography and how to create spectacular images, but I also learned so much about myself and what I am capable of accomplishing. I also discovered more amazing things about Washington DC…and I feel like I know that city (almost) like the back of my hand. What a triumph for me – personally and professionally! I want to thank Tara for her kindness and for sharing her experiences, knowledge, and skill with me and all the attendees. And to the attendees – I am so fortunate to have met you, and I look forward to staying in touch! It was a workshop that I will always look back on fondly. Here are some of my favorite images from those four days — have a look at these shots of our exquisite models!

Christos & Valerie ~ Married! | Virginia Wedding Photographer

admin — Sun, 07 Nov 2010 04:19:20 +0000

I am so excited to post these photos of Christos and Valerie’s wedding! First off however, I want to thank my awesome second shooter Jacie Lee Almira for her amazing talent and skill! Jacie, you ROCK — I had a great time working with you! Thank you for all your hard work!

Now… I adore details and Valerie spared no expense getting everything just perfect, from table decorations right down to her Badgley Mischkas. Her florist was Sue Chamberlain and you absolutely MUST see her work! Sue’s creations are incredible — not only are they artistic and dreamy arrangements, but the flowers themselves were perfectly fresh and simply lovely. And Valerie…. Valerie was so stunning…completely breathtaking! Chris made the most handsome groom, and his friendly demeanor totally added to his charm. This wonderful couple was married at St. Katharine’s Greek Orthodox church in Falls Church, Virginia. What an incredible place of brilliant color! After the beautiful ceremony we stopped along the water for a quick bridal party session, then made our way to the reception at Indigo Landing in Alexandria, Virginia — a place with real character, excellent food and service, and a fun atmosphere. The following are just a few of my favorites from Chris and Valerie’s first day of their new life together…. Valerie and Chris, thank you for choosing me to be your wedding photographer! I am honored. Congratulations, you two!

Christos & Valerie | Virginia Wedding and Engagement Photographer

admin — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 20:17:16 +0000

Couldn’t resist sharing a few more engagement photos of Christos and Valerie taken back in April! Photographing their wedding was such a beautiful experience and I can’t wait to add their wedding photos to the blog! While I had a moment though, I just had to add these to the blog. Check back soon for those shots of their amazing big day…. In the meantime, enjoy this little bunch of sweet moments of love between these two. Gorgeous!

Pink and Pigtails ~ on Etsy! | Maryland etsy photographer

admin — Tue, 18 May 2010 18:07:54 +0000

SO much fun (and well, general busy-ness!) has been happening in my life and though I’ve been working hard, I haven’t had time to blog about everything I’ve been working on! But one thing I’m really excited about lately that I want the world to know about is this great collection of hair accessories designed by Chandra Robinson of Pink and Pigtails on etsy.com. Chandra uses an array of materials that feature vibrant colors, exciting textures, and deep contrasts that result in unique, one-of-a-kind pieces of beauty, versatility, and comfort. For occasions that are either fun or formal, there is definitely something in her etsy shop for that! The quality and customer service she provides is unmatched, and she is just as thrilled about designing and creating as you will be when you receive her work! I highly recommend that you check out Pink and Pigtails on etsy! You’ll be glad you did! Not only is Chandra someone who creates beautiful headbands, bows, clips, hats (and more!) for little girls, tweens, teens, and young adults, but she has also become someone I can call a friend. Chandra, thank you for reaching out to me… I truly value your friendship. Our paths were meant to cross and believe me, I consider myself so blessed to know you! I’ll see you soon!

Here is just a small representation of Chandra’s work, with more to come. Enjoy!

Valerie and Chris ~ More to love! | Maryland Wedding and Engagement Photographer

admin — Sun, 25 Apr 2010 22:48:21 +0000

I’ve fallen behind on my blogging mostly because there are so many awesome shots of Valerie and Chris, and I just can’t stop myself! I’m in the middle of editing their photos from our 2nd session (we weren’t able to finish our shoot the first day due to an emergency on the metro), but I just wanted to share a few more of this truly fantastic couple from that 1st session. The 2nd session is coming soon….so check back ~ you won’t be disappointed! These two are stunning and knocked it out of the park once again!! For now, enjoy a few more photos from that first fabulous day!

Valerie & Christos, engaged! ~ Maryland Wedding Photographer

admin — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 17:52:42 +0000

She simply glows….his expressions radiate…and together they make a brilliant couple whose eyes are intensely focused on a powerfully bright future. They are infinitely in love and the energy they create together is so genuine that I couldn’t help but feel it too…and it made me happy just to be around them. Valerie and Christos make a dynamic pair who truly have it all — major intelligence, innate kindness, a playful spirit, and simply put, sheer gorgeousness! Both are natives of Virginia who adore their families and friends, and they take every opportunity to spend time with all of them, understanding the blessings and treasures that each alliance holds. Christos proposed to Valerie on the beach last May, surrounded by friends and Corolla’s wild horses, and so their love was taken to a blazing new height. They asked me to document their wedding this October, and I am honored. Here are just some of their engagement photos, taken at the Smithsonian Castle on a sunny, golden Saturday. Valerie and Chris, thank you so much for such an amazing day with you two! I absolutely can’t wait to see you both again, very soon! Enjoy!