Many months ago, on my personal blog, I posted that I wanted to start shooting slightly differently and to incorporate this change into my wedding work. Then I found out about Fer Juaristi. Here is someone who has been shooting in a style that I’ve had in my mind’s eye. Since then I came to find out that some fellow photographers were arranging to have Fer come to the DC area to host a workshop. Of course I was in!

Fer was more than I expected. Here is a man who makes beautiful art and is also a down-to-earth, honest-to-goodness, all-around great guy. He never once put his work nor himself on a pedestal. He shared everything with us and his point of view has broadened my own point of view with mind-melting possibilities. Exactly what I’ve been needing during these dark winter months.

Here are some of the photos that I shot during the workshop. Yes, that is full disclaimer that Marissa and Brian are not my clients. They are not professional models either. They are just two wonderful people who offered their time and patience to a group of photographers for the day.

The bottom two photos are of Angel Kidwell, a wedding photographer and friend.

My wife and I are avid readers and Sadie has become quite voracious in consuming books as well. Lilia, I believe, was therefore born into an environment that fosters reading. She is now coming into that age when she happily runs off and plays quietly by herself for a few minutes. Most of the time she goes to her room, to her bookcase, then pulls books down to ‘read’ them out loud.

Last night I had my camera with me and caught her reading to herself.

Looking back at 2011, I have been blessed with great brides, grooms, families, and friends to photograph for. Thank you to ALL of my brides and grooms for allowing me to do something that I love and for trusting me to give you something that you love.

When Alexia began dating John, Bert told himself that John wasn’t good enough for her. That John would never last.

Then Bert found out that John ran marathons. Ok, this was something new and different.

Then he found out that John was also a med student like Alexia. Ok, so John’s smart also.

As Bert watched their love grow, so did his acceptance then appreciation for John.

In the end, Bert realized that John and Alexia are perfect for one another. Such is a family’s love.

More to come…