Christmas Cards

This is our family Christmas card 2008 starring Marina and Calabash. How did I get them both to be so sweet? Two images, one of Marina lying on the sled and the other of Calabash sitting beside the sled. And yes, they are always this sweet? :-)

Congratulations Dana and Neely!

From our first meeting, I knew Dana, Neely and guests were going to have a great time at the couples December 6, 2008 wedding. Gregory's restaurant in Cary provided an awesome venue. The images turned out amazing and will make for a great album. :-)

Technical tip for all of the photographers out there: I bounced a remote flash with lightsphere against the back wall/ceiling corner and shot candids from afar. The effect was awesome. I highly recommend giving this a try. :-)

Penni and Brandon's Engagement Session

I met with Penni, Brandon and Sam at their Aunt's home this past Sunday. What a beautifully landscaped yard. And, the inside of her home was a photographer's dream. Stay tuned for Penni's Bridal portrait.

Congratulations Penni and Brandon!

Kathleen and Joseph Engagement Session

I had another opportunity to shoot at the Arboretum last week. There are so many locations and backgrounds that it never gets old. Congratulations to Kathleen and Joseph! You guys were so much fun! :-)

Raulston Speedshoot

I'd like to say a special thank you to Annie Harrison Photography for organizing the Raulston Arboretum Speedshoot. Eleven models ages 3 months to 14 years meet with three photographers for 20 minute session. As it turns out, 20 minutes is more than enough time to loose a child's attention. :-) I had a great time playing "hide and seek" with these adorable kids. A ton of great shots were an added bonus.

To see more from this shoot, visit my website at http://www.purplehousephotography.com/.

Congratulations Meredith and Jonathon!

Here are a few shots from one of my recent weddings. We had such a great time at Bass Lake Retreat in Holly Springs. The bride, groom and wedding party were awesome and we had such a great time taking formals on the beach. Congratulations Jonathon and Meredith! ~Slade~

Kevin, Shelly and Family

Here are a few images I took of Kevin, Shelly and family at the Garden Supply Company in Apex. The landscaping at GSC is amazing and was perfect for what we were looking for. Thanks Kevin and gang for a great portrait session. - Slade

Carmilla

Carmella is such a sweet, happy baby. And look at those blue eyes. :-) We had such a great time wondering around the Arboretum at NC State. The location was awesome and offered a lot of background options. Here are a couple of my favorites. Thanks Jess and Ryan! -Slade-

Back to School Party and Backpack Giveaway

This past week I had the opportunity to volunteer as a photographer for the Back to School Party and Backpack Giveaway hosted by the Durham Rescue Mission. Almost 1,700 at risk children receive a free backpack at the event. There were games, prizes, hot dogs, clothes, groceries and a backpack full of school supplies for the kids. Not to mention a juggler, clown, tattoos, basketballs, toys and a 25' bouncy slide.

As a photographer, I really love events like this. I get to walk around taking candid shots of the kids, volunteers and all of the excitement. And to be honest, capturing emotion and expression at this event was extremely fun. Everywhere I looked there were kids and volunteers having a great time enjoying each other and the festivities.

I took a few pictures (to say the least) and while it was hard to pick a favorite, I'd have to say this little girl getting her tattoo ranked at the top (above left). Her expression says, "I'm happy and having such a great time."

Success!!!