OLD TOWN AND MOUNT VERNON WEDDING: SUSIE & BARRY

This was a phenomenal wedding for everyone involved. The guests attended a ceremony in the historic Shiloh Baptist Church in Old Town Alexandria, a church with roots beginning in 1863 growing from a congregation of 50 former slaves, in a building only 50 years newer. Barry and Susie had a dream day, with every detail thought out in their classic dinner reception at the Mount Vernon Inn, a short walk from George Washington's historic home. Beki shot this wedding with me and the schedule allowed us a lot of creative freedom and time to set up shots - and some time for Beki to hit the dance floor too. My favorites were the ones in front of the fireplace in the sitting room. Having time to set up a shot and some simple lighting was extremely rewarding.

I can't say enough nice things about this couple; they are both super smart, overly generous, thoughtful and caring, treasure their family and friends, and operate in humility. Every wedding day has challenges, but on their day nothing (that I could see) was stressing either of them out. Even when it started raining toward the end of our formal photos, Barry and Susie had a great attitude. I really do have the best wedding clients in the world.

CORPORATE HEADSHOTS

Yes, I do corporate portraits and headshots. Yes, I like doing it. And here's why: 9 out of 10 people get in front of my camera and say, "Hey man - good luck, I don't photograph very well." And then I go and prove them wrong. Flattering light, a little preparation and some simple conversation to relieve tension can go a long way and just about anyone can get a great portrait.

Josh and I messed around with some behind-the-scenes shots before we packed up all the gear.

LEFT ON VERMONT LIVE AT ROCK AND ROLL HOTEL

I really enjoy the Rock and Roll Hotel. It's a good smallish venue and sounds good for the size. My friends Left on Vermont played their CD release show there with another fun band, Alexis and the Samurai. The place was packed and I had a fun time pushing the limits of my camera in a really dark place with weird colored lights everywhere.

KRISTIN'S MATERNITY

Kristin & Anthony are having a baby! They might have already even had the little guy!

This was the first time I've photographed a pregnancy. I wasn't sure what to expect but we all worked together on figuring out poses and angles that look good. Kristin did a great job picking out clothes that look cute on her and highlight her baby bump. Pregnancy is such a crazy and amazing time in life (there's a baby growing in there!) and it really makes sense to document it. Really glad I got to do this with a really sweet couple.