Arianna’s Mini Session

My baby girl’s birthday is on Friday. We have a large family, she is the 5th child. Having two brothers and two sisters, isn’t the easiest at times. They do a lot of things before her, I wanted to create a special time for her. I asked her what the biggest challenge of being the youngest of a large family is. She said being heard, which is why she usually is louder than all the rest. Because of this, she is spunky, funny, and full of spirit. There is never a dull moment with her, making us all smile & crack up from her random jokes. She’s a mamma’s girl but Izzy is a close 2nd. She doesn’t go to sleep without cuddling with her dog.

12 is such an important age. The last year of being a preteen. To celebrate this moment, I knew the right location would make all the difference in her images.

We decided upon a local location so it would be more comfortable. And it’s easier to fit in a mini session. My secret location is one that people normally wouldn’t think twice about. A few years ago, while biking with my girls, we came across a tunnel that had colorful graffiti. I thought it would make for a fun backdrop and used it once, when I first started my business. I’ve always loved the spot and thought how great it would be for Arianna. Plus, I haven’t used it in three years. The location is local yet off the beaten path. It’s full of color & fun designs. And not overly used. Perfect!

There isn’t a lot of people using this part of the bike trail so when we went an hour before sunset, I knew there was no one to worry about. No photobombing or competing for the space. We had the whole place to ourselves. She brought along her sister and bestfriend for the mini session, helping Ari to smile. I don’t always recommend bringing a friend when they are so young, as they tend to not pose and get super silly. But it worked out well and I got some beautiful images of Arianna. And I got some great sister portraits, which is hard to come by these days.

Like my clients, I wanted lasting images that represent my daughter, highlight her beautiful spirit, and have a little fun doing it. The images I captured is something I will cherish forever. And that is exactly what I offer each of my clients.

The Mill on the River Reception

One of the best things about my business is that I get to travel and explore different areas & venues. Sometimes, I’m in the middle of nowhere & sometimes I am in the middle of a city. Where ever I am, I get to see some of the best venues in New England.

In April, I photographed a venue in Connecticut that I have never been to, The Mill on the River Restaurant. This beautiful venue has a lot to offer your event, even in April when the weather is unpredictable.

My clients (Ahmed & Mina) hired me for some portraits – as well as their reception, no ceremony. When I arrived, I had a mission to pick the best spot for portraits.

I arrived early, which gave me plenty of time to look around, and pick out some great spots for the outdoor images. The venue had a covered bridge, gazebo, bushes in bloom, and a river to utilize. Then I noticed across the street a pop of pink and I had my inspiration. In the over flow parking, are some beautiful trees that would make any image spectacular. That is where we photograph Ahmed & Mina’s couple portraits. I utilized that as a special spot for their images, just the two of them.

The Big Reception

Their reception was so much fun, especially since almost everyone was dancing. Seeing so many people dancing and enjoying – I couldn’t help get caught up by the mood too. In these hard times, seeing the kind of cheer was just the energy I’ve been needing. To share in the cheer, here’s a glimpse of their danced filled reception.

Each reception that I photograph is unique to my clients. Ahmed & Mina’s unique moment came from her husband and family giving her jewelry & each taking a turn putting them on her. Her smile was more sparkling than the jewelry and that was an essence I wanted to make sure I captured. Of course, her family had a little something for Ahmed too.

Vendors:
Venue: The Mill on River Restaurant
Dj & Lighting: Dj MO ATF website: www.djmoatf.com Instagram: djmoatf