Azalea Garden with Dad

I've started going to my Dad's photography club with him every once in a while. I enjoy it mostly because I learn so much from the guys that lead it, but also because I get to spend quality time with my dad. We both have an interest in photography and I love that this give us such a great opportunity.

These photos were taken at the Azalea Gardens in Raleigh - Behind the WRAL building. I've lived in the Raleigh area for 24 years, and didn't know they were there. We went at the perfect time, when all of the Azaleas were in bloom and beautiful!

I can't remember what type of rose this was, but I had to hold it up because it faces down. I love the vibrancy the leaves bring and the contrast they cause with the almost dull flower itself.


I believe this bloom that reminds me of a hydrangea, is called a snowball - how appropriate. Beautiful! If you can't tell, these are in the background of the photo below.

This fountain is beautiful and I was able to practice the motion of water.

Katie Eddings and Family

I'm saving this spot for Katie's photos....

~Audrey's Debut~

Audrey is one of my many supporters. She always asks me "what's next, what are my plans for my photography, why am I not thinking [business] smarter" (she seems to say)...My conclusion is this: she believes in me! She sees the passion in me and knows I'll make it some day... :)

I had had these images in my head for a while and needed to get them out and in my camera...Audrey was a perfect model, because she was so willing to do everything I asked! So much fun that day...Cars were driving through this intersection (the only one in the township) and probably thought we were professionals ;)

Such patience! As I recall, this day was windy, rainy and on the verge of sleeting...we took these in a township near Morrisville. If she reads this blog, she'll correct me, but its an itty bitty township and the photos you see here are what it consists of!

What can I say? I love this girl and have since 7th grade!

Logan's Basketball Game

Kelly asked me to take pictures of her son's basketball game. Her son attends West End and they were playing against our school - Southern Middle. I'm admittedly not the best at events like this, but I got a few candids that I liked!

The boys were getting tired...

He made this shot!

Anticipation at it's best!

They beat Southern Middle by one point!

Falling Behind...

I've gone through a dry spell in the recent few months and so I've been neglecting my blog. Sadly, those not connected to the Facebook world, have been unable to view what I've been doing. Since I have left the school year behind, I thought I'd update ya'll on my pride and joy - my photography!

I have also be preoccupied with the obstacles of my life. My faith is growing weaker, and I'm feeling farther from God than I have in some time. Though I will say that my wonderful husband has been fully supportive of my journey and I'm sure he will continue to be as I continue making hard decisions. I almost lost my best friend in a struggle between selfishness and growth. Luckily, I quickly learned the art of scrappiness and my pride is just now coming back. Southern Pines and the Sandhills area is not our ideal area, so we are trying to move forward, but the economy doesn't allow us that luxury easily. Along with my faith, I have lost confidence in myself and my talent as a photographer. As always, I began to compare myself to others in this field and realized that my training is lacking, but support from friends and family and the realization that life IS too short, is going to keep my head above the water and proud of my every accomplishment.

As I said, my husband has been extremely supportive. Admittedly at first, he wasn't too sure about the huge leap I was making from teaching to photography, but he has really come around! I'm building my collection of equipment and knowing how hard I've been working to save up for everything, he gave a "few" extra dollars to help buy my new 35mm lens and flash! What a sweety! He makes me so happy:)

After this post, I'll be posting a lot of the ones I have not since falling behind.

Please pray for us that we are able to move forward from the Sandhills and God Bless you all!

AKM;)

Jim and Kelly's Engagement/Bridal Portraits 2009

Jim and Kelly's Wedding 1.2.2010

Thank you to Jim + Kelly for letting me be their photographer on their most special day. It was an absolute pleasure and I hope they cherish these memories always!

Congratulations!