Photographs by Sabrina

Fabulous Friday | Family Fun

2012-01-27T13:40:00.000-05:00

This coming Monday and Tuesday we'll be saying goodbye to some of Ben's side of the family as they head back to their particular parts of the world (Africa and South America). The fact that we have family in so many countries and on at least three different continents blows my mind some days. Although, it doesn't surprise me at all that God would give me a family that's spread over the globe.

We've tried to make as much as we could of our time together since his sister, Jenna, and her family (the Wrights) came over from Africa in August and then his parents came from South America in October. A couple of weekends ago we went up to Ridgecrest for a family weekend away and had a blast. The ladies went to Biltmore Saturday morning and we spent the evenings playing games and spending some time in the Word and praying.

I'm so thankful for this family God has given me and that they have welcomed me with such open arms!

Since we were all together (and we aren't sure when that will happen again) we arranged things to get some family pictures on Sunday before we left. So thankful for my tripod in times like these :-)

Our "for real" pose.

Our "goofy pose".

Our "1885/angry pose".

Our "funny faces pose".
(This one cracks me up every time...!)

And last but not least, a pose with all the grand kids!

Fabulous Friday | Wedding Websites

2012-01-20T11:58:00.000-05:00

The thing I love about my website is well... there are lots of things I love about it. The number one thing is that since it's a ShowIt site, I can change it whenever I want to! It looks the way it does because I'VE made it look that way. And if you know me at all, I have zero talent for actual design. (But, please don't judge the site too harshly right now because I'm in the process of updating the look and feel and everything about it!)

The number two thing I love about my site is what are called +sites (plus sites). Oh my goodness... this may actually be a tie for my number one reason of loving ShowIt. I can create as many +sites as I want! And all of them can look completely different or have the same feel but with different pictures. I'm getting better about offering these to my couples and am actually working on one now for one of my May 2012 brides. Sometimes the bride and groom have already set up a site, so I will put one together with just their engagement and wedding photos so friends and family can go to one place to see their pictures.

Since I had this at my disposal when we got engaged last summer, I somehow found the time to put our own site together exactly the way we wanted it! And there were plenty of times that someone found a typo or I just wanted to change something and it took me no time at all to do that!

http://sabrinaben.photographsbysabrina.com/

So, if you're a photographer and looking for a website company, ShowIt is 100% worth it. And don't be intimidated by the design aspect... there are stylegroups that you can use and drop in your own wording and photos, or there are designers out there who design sites FOR ShowIt! Plus, it's an amazing community of people and the customer service is just amazing.

If you're a bride and groom looking for a photographer, I'd love to show you some samples of +sites that my past couples have had.

Engaged | Joanna & Ben | Greer, SC

2012-01-17T07:51:00.000-05:00

Just over a year ago, Joanna started working at the church at a desk just outside of my office. I'd met her the fall before on the high school retreat (we were both leaders) and all I really knew about her was that she'd gone to Erskine and had lived in France and Japan. And was fluent in French. But all of that changed really quickly as she adjusted her to job and I adjusted to her asking lots of questions each day!

Ben started working at Upward Sports after I left, but when he started attending Grace Church, his name was thrown around and finally we met in person. And, if I'm not mistaken, it wasn't too long after that that he and Joanna met through a group of friends. I remember slowly hearing more and more about this guy, but instead of it being from other people, the information was coming from Joanna... with a smile on her face that couldn't be wiped off.

I'm SO thrilled to be a part of their wedding day in May and to capture their beach wedding. You two are incredible and it has been such an honor to watch as you've fallen in love and have let God mold and shape you as He prepares you to become one.

We met at Joanna's parents' house after a storm passed through for their engagement photos. It was a little windy and still a little wet, but we had fun (with a little help from Joanna's younger siblings!).

I wish I could tell you they were laughing at how funny I am... but I think Joanna's younger brother had just said something funny. Maybe I should have been taking notes while also taking pictures!

Favorite!

Yep, you guys have the model look down pat.

Could these two be any more adorable?? Or the light any better?? I think not :-)

Another favorite...

Joanna... you are stunning, my friend!

Sorry, Jo, I just had to include this one. I love your laughter!

Fabulous Friday | Memories

2012-01-13T16:56:00.001-05:00

This morning I was reading chapter one of Counterfeit Gods by Tim Keller and besides getting a kick in the rear end, it reminded me of the ways God has worked in my life. Throughout the Bible we see God acting and then having the Israelites (His chosen people) perform tasks or celebrations so that they can remember what He has done. But even with those yearly reminders, they forget! And it always blows me away. But if I look at my life, how many times have I had to learn certain lessons over and over and over again?

The main point of chapter one was that the reason God doesn't give us the desires of our hearts is because 1) He's actually the One that knows best and what we really want and 2) that if He immediately just gave us what we wanted (or thought we wanted), we would turn those things into idols and push God to the side. How can we even think of pushing God, the Creator or the universe, to the side for some of the crazy silly things we want and put importance on?? But... we do it all the time. Shoot, I'm the worst at doing it!

As I was reading of Tim Keller's example of Abraham and how he and his wife Sarah longed for a son, I couldn't help but think of how my life mirrored theirs... not for want of a son (yet) but for a husband. God created us to be in community, to have people that loved us and to love others. But even with all of my amazing family and wonderful friends and amazing church community, I still longed for a husband to partner with for life! Someone to call mine, someone to live everyday life with, someone to go to sleep with and wake up to every day, someone to wash clothes for, someone to brush my teeth with at night... yet year after year, birthday after birthday, Christmas after Christmas, I continued to do those things alone.

But now, at the age of 32, God has brought us together. We're married! I have my partner, my teammate, my cohort! I waited SO long (although not as long as Abraham (100) and Sarah (90) did for their son) and I'm beyond thrilled that we get to spend the rest of our lives together. But... if I'm not careful, if I'm not intentional about keeping God first in my life, Ben will become my idol. And, as much as I love him, as wonderful as he is, as much as he loves me... he's going to fail me and disappoint me. And I'm very much going to do the same to and for him! Neither of us are perfect. But God is. And He's who we want to lead us and love us.

I'm thankful for the reminders of memories that God has left in my head. I'm thankful for the lonely nights, the tears, the frustration, the days of asking over and over, "God, where is the man you have for me??" And I'm thankful that through each of those days and those seasons, that God was steadfast. His promises in His Word to love me and care for me and provide for me were always true and I always had Him to run to.

Ben is an incredible man and I'm thankful, honored, and dumbfounded that I get to be his wife. But my prayer, and his, is that we never put the other before God.

We ventured out one night while on our honeymoon with my camera and tripod in hand. After several attempts, we got this shot. What I remember is ripping a hole in my jeans as I bent down to get things set up. What Ben remembers is me screaming and jumping for joy that I was able to capture this :-) I love this man...

The Wrights | Powdersville Portrait Session

2012-01-12T08:43:00.000-05:00

As Ben was helping me put away my Christmas decorations at the beginning of 2011 (11 months before we got married), he told me that his sister, Jenna (whom I had not met yet because she and her family are missionaries in Africa), had told him that from what Ben had told her about me and the way he spoke, that this time it was different. She went on to let him know that it's easier to get out of where they live when it's NOT the rainy season... so, anytime before May and anytime after October.

I knew that I wanted to marry Ben, but we'd only been dating a short while and for us, we just needed more time to get to know each other and figure out what God was doing. Who knew how right Jenna would be! Luckily, they were able to come much earlier than the November wedding. In fact, they came to the states in August and were going to be able to stay until January! That's AGES!! The only thing is that even "ages" go by quickly because here it is January already and they're just a few weeks away from heading out.

I'm so thankful for the time we've had with Ben's family - for the dinners, for the bible study Jenna was able to do with me at church, for the mini-family vacation we get to have soon, for the talks, the games, the laughter, and the craziness of all 7 cousins being in the same place! I've been beyond blessed by this family that I have gained and am so thankful that we were able to get some family pictures of the Wrights while they were here. Thank you guys for allowing me to capture this moment in time for you!

It started to drizzle on our way to take pictures but literally, as we stepped out of the car, the rain stopped!

The camera just really loved these two lovely ladies :-)

All of the kids are a mess... but there's always a little extra something in the youngest of any family!

Love!!

I just couldn't help but include this one! Jenna was trying to make him laugh but he just copied her!

Jim + Jenna = Love :-)

For the wedding, we gave our nieces and the flower girls necklaces with their first initial.

Y'all are just precious.

Sneak Peak! | Joanna & Ben

2012-01-09T08:39:00.003-05:00

Christmas Mini-Session | Greenville, SC Children Photographer

2012-01-05T22:12:00.003-05:00

I know we're a couple of weeks after Christmas, but I couldn't help but still share these! Jill and her sister wanted a few pictures of their kids with a Christmas backdrop and after asking on some FB groups for some ideas, I realized that I had a red door... with a wreath on it! How much more "Christmas backdrop" can you get?? Jill and her creative self brought over the wrapped Christmas boxes (that were empty) and I pulled the little tree and red rocker out of my house and we had ourselves the cutest little Christmas scene my front porch has ever seen! Not sure why I didn't think of this at the beginning of December!

Hope you enjoy these and that your 2012 is off to a wonderful start!

David and Andrea both love their little cousin, Emily!

This one of the girls makes my heart swoon.

Andrea has such a cute smile... but she can get a little silly pretty quickly :-)

While we were there, Meghan wanted a few six-month old pictures of Emily. Who knew that the gray bricks on the front of my house would make such a good backdrop??

I could have taken pictures of this little one for ages!

Would you look at those baby blues...

Seattle or Bust

2012-01-02T09:28:00.001-05:00

Last April I went to Nashville for a couple of days to attend the IN-CAMERA workshop that Zach and Jody Gray do... they've been all over the world with this workshop teaching photographers things THEY have learned over the course of their business. Day 1 focuses on getting the image you want INSIDE your camera, which means knowing your camera, the light you're working with, and how to adjust you and your camera settings to get an incredible picture right off the bat. This also means spending less time in LightRoom and PhotoShop afterwards. Woohoo!

I only went for the second two days because they focused on lighting and business/marketing... two things that I ALWAYS need to learn more about. So, Day 2 focuses on their lighting setup and how they get the rock-star images they're known for. The "best" part for us was that we were in the most horrible of circumstances - POURING rain. So, we found a sweet location and shot inside solely with their lights and WE were the ones that took turns setting up different lighting scenarios.

Sadly, this is the only picture I ever posted... maybe I should show you more!

Day 3 was full of how they've progressed in their business and with their marketing. I have so many pages of notes... and so much that I want to implement!

But now what? Well, they're going to be in Seattle with creativeLive at the end of January. One of the best things is that anyone can tune in for FREE!! But THE best thing is that they're choosing six people to come out and be with them in the studio!!!! And I want to be one of those six!

I never submit videos for things because my ideas become bigger than my capabilities... but, I did marry a videographer! So, below is my entry... and the outtakes. And really, you should watch both because I've already watched the outtakes at least 5 times. Thank you, Ben for spending most of yesterday putting these together!!

Annnd.... the outtakes...

2011 in Review

2011-12-27T16:20:00.001-05:00

I know that everyone is saying this, but I can't believe 2011 is over... and that Ben and I are married! This time last year I was hoping that our relationship would continue to grow but I knew that only God could see where we would end up. I'm so thankful we were able to trust Him!

And the same is true with this business... if it weren't for God, none of these pictures below would have happened. I'm so thankful for each of my friends and clients who have trusted me over the past year and have helped me grow as a person and a photographer. I'm SO excited about 2012 and what's in store for us and for this business. These are some of my favorite images from sessions in 2011... it was full of babies, high school seniors, prom, proposals, engagements, weddings, and families! Wow! Thank you to all of you for allowing me to capture life for you

Many blessing for a very happy and very safe New Year!

I couldn't help but include the next 3 of the Pattersons when Emory was born...

I helped Kim DeLoach shoot Nicole and Nathan's wedding.

I also helped Kim with some after-wedding portraits for Ashley and Kevan.

Had to include the next two of the Thompsons...

Had to include this one of us :-)

Blog post of the Wrights coming next week...

Blog post of this Christmas mini-session coming next week too!

As well as one of Emily's 6-month mini-session!

The Donells

2011-12-27T13:15:00.000-05:00

Ryan is the pastor for our high school students at church and between leading a group of high school girls as well as being on staff myself, I've gotten to know Ryan and his family a little bit over the past year and a half or so. It also doesn't hurt that his wife's sister, Joanna, is a good friend and that I did senior pictures for his wife's brother, Nic. Ryan and Lydia welcomed their adorable and sweet baby boy, Trystan, into the world this past summer and I was thrilled when we had the chance to meet up for some family pictures just before Christmas.

Both of these families are wonderful (the Donell's as well as Lydia's family)... I hope you can get a glimpse of that in these photos!

The morning light was beautiful.

A child's laughter is one of my favorite things.

The bomber hat was amazing!

Me thinks he has a modeling career in his future...

Trystan needed a break, so mom and dad got some pictures while grandma got some snuggle time with the little one.

And now we see where the little one gets his modeling skills from...

Lydia... you are just beautiful.

The poor little guy was worn out from the pictures... but he was still so adorable, even with tears in his eyes!

Sweetness...

Fabulous Friday: It's Christmas!

2011-12-23T18:40:00.000-05:00

Ben and I are super excited about spending this Christmas together as husband and wife... but not even that compares to our excitement of celebrating the birth of our Savior, Jesus. We hope and pray that you have a wonderful weekend full of love and anticipation for Christmas Day... As much as we love and appreciate all of you, it will never even compare to His love for us.

Merry Christmas and many blessings for 2012,
Ben & Sabrina

Photo credit: Jana Candler & Kim DeLoach

Cabin Weekend

2011-12-21T08:02:00.000-05:00

It's our favorite time of year... and possibly the shortest weekend of the year! My "Clemsongang" has been together since our freshman year at Clemson. We actually don't get to see each other a lot, but yet our friendship remains something that we can't help but be thankful for. Luckily, way back in 2006, we decided to get together at least once a year (we're trying to increase that number though) with everyone (husbands and some babies too!) so that we get to hang out and all be together. And it's so.much.fun.

Have you ever had a time or event in life that you want to bottle up and hold onto so that you can visit it all over again whenever you want to? That's what these weekends are like.

We start planning early in the year so that we can get the cabin size we need and then as it gets closer, the emails begin with what each of us are bringing... ok, they're really about what food we're planning to have :-) We usually have a baby shower (I think there's been one year that at least one person hasn't been expecting!), play Dirty Santa (I vote we change the name... suggestions??), cook/grill a big dinner for Saturday night, play Nertz, and have lunch at the Applebarn on Sunday before we head home. And in the midst of all of it, we laugh, we have fun, and just soak up the time we have together.

This year, it was Megan's turn for the baby shower! Little Quinn will be joining us in the next few months!

Jill went easy on the baby shower games this year :-)

One of Jill's "games" was for us to write on diapers so that Megan would see our messages as she's
changing little Quinn during the first several weeks. Loved this idea!

Blindfolded, Megan had to pull baby items out of a bag and guess what they were.

While Ben was not actually involved in the shower, he still hung out...

He was at the cabin last year, but this year we were MARRIED! I'm not sure who was more thankful
that he didn't have to sleep on the couch again... him or me!

Isn't he SO handsome???

Allison made the amazingly delicious cupcakes.

And there's Allie, with her red hair and all... such a sweetheart!

This year, I thought it would be fun to get some portraits of the girls and the couples because well, we've just never done it and I thought it would be fun! So, we went out in the cold and with the mountains and cloud covered sun (woohoo!) and had a blast!

Brooke had warned me that she has a fake smile... it doesn't look fake to me at all!

She claimed that she was looking over at Tim Tebow in this "serious" one.

A little Titanic in the mountains...

Megan and Travis... and little Quinn!

I think y'all know by now that Natalie and I shared a room in college. And our friendship has taken us through so many different stages of life... which is why these next few pictures are so great!

You'll understand after you see the next picture why this one is posted...

When I asked her to, Natalie couldn't look at Josh for more than a second without laughing!

And here's Allie again... this is my favorite picture from the weekend. SO adorable.

Philip and Leslie... y'all are just wonderful.

Don't tell Emory's older brother Cooper, but we were hoping the extra time at the cabin
without his big brother around would give him time to woo Allie a bit!

She's thinking about which brother she likes more :-)

And while these blue eyes are to die for (this is my second favorite image from the weekend!), his big brother has the same baby blues!

Not too many times that the youngest of three gets time alone with mom and dad!

This is Kristen and Jason... trust me, they will make you laugh.

Plus, they're just adorable!

Allison and Wes brought their little Ian with them last year,

but he stayed with grandma this time around.

We just need to figure out what magazine this one needs to go into :-)

Y'all are gorgeous!

Brooke and K sustained the cold and stayed out for most of the pictures.

Hence the Sabrina sandwich to warm me up...?

Jill and Michael had gone to do some shopping so when they got back, the sun was peaking out.

If you know Jill, then you have seen this look.

But, you've also seen this laugh!

Thanks to Brooke for snapping a couple of pictures of Ben and me. He braved the cold for ALL of the pictures...
without his jacket! He must love me a lot :-)

Michael, aka Grill Master, sliced and diced some veggies to go along with our filets and salmon.
Megan made her hashbrown casserole, which is awesome!

I just love these girls... Jennifer, we missed you this year!!

The presents...!

PJs were a must for the gift exchange.

Many thanks to Lindsey (who couldn't make it) for sending the marshmallow gun to me in the mail!
It's the gift that has made it's rounds since year one at the cabin :-)

And the game of Nertz* begins...

We've never managed to get a group picture at the Applebarn on Sunday... possibly due to the fact that we're freezing as we wait outside or that after we eat, we're too full to think about a photo. Photo or not, it's still one of my favorite meals of the year!

I love all of you so much and am thankful for this time we have together each year. Merry Christmas to each of you and your families!

*please note that Nertz may be hazerdous, both physically and to your marriage**
**this game could be a good exercise in communication and forgiveness :-)

engaged | Janet & Andrew

2011-12-13T17:30:00.000-05:00

I'm always blown away and honored when people call or email to ask if I can photograph them, whether it be a newborn, or to capture their family at this point in life, to document a graduating senior, or to photograph a wedding. But, for some reason or another, when it's someone you know who wants you to be the one to capture them and their family, it's an even deeper honor. I think it's something to do with how they not only love you, but they're saying they trust you and believe in you to capture this moment in their lives. And having that honor blows me away.

I've known Janet for quite a while and I feel like she's a really close friend because her sister has been one of my friends that I've walked through some of life with. Her sister and I were roommates after college and walked through the "single after college while all of our friends get married" stage. So, during that time and ever since, I've gotten to know their family and just love them! In fact, they were all at our wedding last month... it wouldn't have been the same without them there! And I'm SO excited that Ben and I will be able to capture Janet and Andrew's wedding this coming April.

A couple of weeks before our wedding, I met Janet and Andrew downtown for a beautiful (and WINDY) engagement session. It was a lot of fun hanging out with you guys and I hope you continue to enjoy these images. We can't wait to celebrate with you in the spring!

Y'all are adorable.

Remember that we did this session in mid-October...

which made the pumpkin the perfect accessory for a ring shot!

Downtown Greenville... oh how I love thee!

Our last stop was where Andrew proposed and the light did not disappoint!

This one might be my favorite...

family | the Mozingos

2011-12-12T19:16:00.000-05:00

It's really hard not to love this family. Since I first started attending Grace and going through the membership process, Scott has remembered my name - which was impressive since it's a big church and there were 40+ people in the class... and since I missed two of the six classes! Hmm... maybe that's why he remembers, because I was the delinquent that missed classes! It was northing short of a joy to meet his wife and kids a few months before I went on staff at church. Between the two older ones, who are a really fun set of twins, and their super sweet younger brother, they are just a JOY to be around.

I came into work last Monday to find a really pretty seashell on my desk and a handwritten note in pencil from their daughter that said, "Jesus loves you more than all the grains in the sand." Her heart is so big and I love chatting with her when they come by the office.

They were wanting some family pictures this fall and we found a 45 minute window the Sunday before the wedding. It was quick and light was fading fast, but it was that warm, amazing light that you want to put in a bottle and keep forever! Thank you guys for laughs, the best jokes (Why did the duck cross the road? Because the chicken was on vacation!), and for letting me capture your life in photographs.

Just Being Me

2011-12-06T13:22:00.001-05:00

There are several blogs and photographers and designers that I follow and so many of them constantly say the same thing to those out there who are trying to "make it" in their business of choice... BE YOU*. Granted that business of choice they're speaking to is one in the artistic field, but that's where and why it makes sense. I don't know that it would really fly for those trying to make it in say, the mechanical engineering field. YES, it could work, but there are more rules and formulas in that area than are in the artistic world!

I've always struggled with the tension between my artistic side and my engineering side. Even when I was younger and going through school, I was the epitome of the well-rounded kid. Ugh. I was ok/good at many things but didn't excel at one individual thing. And this drove the engineering side of me crazy! Do you know how frustrating it is to enjoy math as much as you enjoy playing the violin? Yes... I'm a freak of nature. BUT, I wasn't the best at either of those things! I remember taking the SAT three times and getting the exact same score on math and verbal all three times. Wait, I take that back... one time I was 10 points higher on math than I was on verbal. *sigh* Still, I came out of each of those times asking, "What am I supposed to do with my life??"

Anyway, now that I'm all grown up and doing things I never thought I'd do (working in ministry and photography instead of being an astronaut), I'm finally starting to listen to those other artistic types and figuring out how to just BE ME. However, that can sometimes change on a daily basis. No, I don't have multiple personalities! I just mean one day I want to wear jeans and a graphic tee and the next day I want to dress up like I'm stepping out of a J.Crew magazine.

The good news with all of this and what I find myself doing work-wise is that I am in a world that is constantly moving and adjusting. Church activities and sermon series change each week and photography is constantly changing based on my mood, a location, my clients, etc..

So, it looks like I ended up in the right field(s) (no pun on my new last name intended... really!). There's enough consistency and organization to fulfill my engineering side and enough change and creativity to fulfill my photography side. And for once, maybe even the first time, I'm looking forward to embracing all of who I am and getting that out there and I'm going to encourage you to do the same!

Whether you're pursuing photography, teaching, art, ministry, music, and maybe even engineering... I'm going to repeat what "everyone else" is saying... just BE YOU and love it and have fun with it.

*Jasmine Star, Promise Tangeman, Katelyn James... to name a few

Sneak Peak and Being Married

2011-11-28T21:50:00.001-05:00

Wow... we're MARRIED! November 5 was THE best day and we've loved all 23 days we've had together since then. I was so excited when Ben proposed and knew that I was going to marry this amazing man, but being married to him is even more wonderful than I thought. We're partners for life, partners in crime, and partners in laughter. Yes, I made that last one up but oh my goodness... sometimes we just get to laughing and who wants to ever stop laughing???

With Thanksgiving the week after we returned home from our honeymoon, it's taken a little while to get up and running again. So, I thank you for your patience and for checking the blog for updates! There's a downtown engagement session as well as a fall family session from the month of October to post so keep your eyes peeled for those... as well as honeymoon and wedding pictures! I keep going back to look at the pictures from 11/05/11 and keep falling in love with them. SO much fun. And I can't wait to share more of Jana and Kim's talent!

So, in the meantime, here's a sneak peak from a quick family session I had with the Mozingos the Sunday before the wedding. Love these guys. More to come soon!

Best Wedding Ever

2011-11-06T13:56:00.000-05:00

We've been to lots of wonderful and really fun weddings - as guests and as photographers and videographers - but Ben and I both agree that our wedding yesterday was the best one... ever. Thanks to everyone's support before, during, and after this day. We love all of you so much and we look forward to talking more about it and telling you about our honeymoon when we get back.

Until then, enjoy these pictures from yesterday... from our perspective!

The Sargents

2011-11-03T08:00:00.000-04:00

I can't believe that in just a few days I'll be married!! I'm so excited and so ready to be Mrs. Fields!! But, there are still pictures to be shared... and I think you'll like this family. We met at the Rock Quarry after work one day and raced against the setting sun. Their girls are adorable, mom was great, and dad, was the goofy one to bring out some smiles!

Thank you guys for letting me capture your family and the really fun surprise at the end of the session (see pictures below)!

I just adore this picture of these three sisters!

There's something about a family squeezing into a group hug that just makes me smile.

See... I'm hilarious! ...at least that's what I told them to pretend :-)

Y'all are just adorable. Thanks for being so much fun!

Pictures of mom and dad are a must.

Please note how everyone is wicked awesome at the "GQ look".
And how Brynn is looking straight at me. Love it.

Rylie, Ellis, and Brynn... y'all are amazing models!

Y'all are just adorable!

Ok, so here's the story. As we were emailing back and forth about the pictures and times and locations, Kristy told me that they would be leaving for Disney World the next morning... but that the girls didn't know yet! So, she had borrowed Micky Mouse hats from a friend to let the girls wear for pictures and then they'd tell them what was going on.

So, to not make it quite so obvious, we played it as though I was the one who brought the hats and wanted to take some fun pictures with the hats on. So, the next several pictures are of their parents telling them that they would be leaving for Disney the very next morning...

Disbelief...

Getting into shock...

A little more disbelief from Rylie...

Then it finally started to set in...

Yep... they were excited!

I hope you guys had a wonderful time!!

Birthday 3.2

2011-10-27T18:23:00.000-04:00

Yes, I said birthday 3.2. Last year I decided that I didn't really like the idea of being IN my 30s. So, instead (taking the idea from someone else... can't remember who!), I decided that I would become the next, and hopefully better, version of Sabrina. So, a day after my birthday, I introduce you to Sabrina, version 3.2! ha! You know you love it.

So far, Sabrina 3.2 is doing quite well. Ben has totally and completely been spoiling me since Friday evening when we went to dinner at the Melting Pot since that's what we did the Friday before my birthday last year (and when he asked me to be his lady!). And yesterday was wonderful. I got to work and the night before, while I was in another building for bible study, he went into my office to leave some beautiful flowers and all kinds of candy! I love gummy bears (minus the green ones), Twizzlers, and the occasion one or 50 Sour Patch Kids.

And if all of that wasn't enough, the surprises kept coming. Now, please understand I'm not telling you all of this to brag on my man... well, ok... I am! But, I'm also putting this out there to encourage you girls who are not married but would like to be. Please please PLEASE wait for a man that not only loves the Lord, but who loves you and pursues you. If he's not pursuing you and trying his hardest to make you happy and feel loved, then he's not the one for you. No, he won't always make you happy, all men are human afterall... but if he loves you, then he will do everything in his power to make you happy as often as he can. And it's worth waiting on that man.

And in Ben's efforts to do that, I was (and am) currently the happiest woman in the world. It may have a little to do with us getting married NEXT WEEK, but his efforts yesterday will never be forgotten. We were going downtown for dinner at Pomegranate, where we went the night we got engaged. As we were walking down the sidewalk and came up to the restaurant's large front window, I saw my friends Robert and Lindsay sitting inside and said, "Hey! Look who's here!" But then it clicked... they were there for me! As were Natalie and Jill! Surprise! We had a wonderful dinner and spent the time eating wonderful food and having fun conversation.

Towards the end of the meal, Ben went to get something from his car and came back with a dozen cupcakes from one of the local designer cupcake shops. YUM!! But the surprises weren't over... Ben and I came back to my house where he had another couple of gifts. One was an iPhone dock with a speaker so that I can listen to Pandora, books, or iTunes from my phone! I love it!! And, believe it or not, he saved the best for last.

Ben's biggest wish for me next week is that I'm relaxed and able to enjoy the week and especially our wedding day. The last thing I want to do is go into the day stressed or worried that something isn't going right or won't happen the way I'd hoped. But, I've already made up my mind that so many of those small things don't matter! I get to marry THE most wonderful man next week and I'm not going to let small details deter that from happening. Well, to help with that, Ben is sending me to the spa next Thursday for a massage, a facial, and a couple other things that I can't remember! I. am. so. excited!!!!!!!

Things will be very scattered over the next week so bear with me! Thank you all so much for your excitement for us, your prayers, and your well wishes. We are so excited about this next stage of life that God has planned for us. And don't worry... there will be plenty of pictures over the next several months. You didn't think I'd not post and/or link to them did you??

Happy Thursday evening!

The Williams

2011-10-21T11:35:00.000-04:00

I'm not actually sure when or how I met Ginny. I know we went to college together and her name sounded familiar when another friend mentioned her several years back, but it wasn't until we met through work related stuff that we started to get to know each other a little. And I was thrilled when she asked if I would be able to take some pictures of her precious family. Oh my goodness... her little boy is a doll and her husband is an amazing dad. Thank you guys so much for allowing me to come to your home and capture your life as it is right now. It was such a beautiful morning and I hope you enjoy the pictures of your beautiful family!

Rhett wasn't so sure about this picture thing...
but this look right here makes me think he may have a future in modeling.

Y'all are just beautiful.

The picture on the right was one of those that just seemed to happen.
He was holding my hand and I looked down and he looked straight into my camera. Those baby blues are still making me melt!

And then... he went with Daddy to get the tractor.

I think he was upset because he wasn't getting to drive :-)

He facial expressions in the next several images made it SUPER difficult to choose which to post.
So I just posted them all!

FAVORITE.

And I know this was the sneak peak, but holy cow. I just love this picture.
Ginny got the idea from Pinterest and I think I got two pictures before Rhett was off again.
But wow... be still my heart!

I love the pure joy... in Mommy and son!

I don't know what it is about baby shoes and pictures of feet in general, but I just like them!
And these little TOMS are precious!

The session ended when Rhett let us know he wanted to take the tractor back with Daddy.
But he wanted to look back and make sure Mommy knew he still loved her!

Thank you guys for such a beautiful morning!

Sneak Peak! | Williams

2011-10-19T00:15:00.001-04:00

This may by my new favorite picture...

Harper is 1!

2011-10-17T17:15:00.000-04:00

I can't believe this little one turned one year old on Saturday!! This time last year I had booked my ticket and had to wait another couple of days to fly up and meet this sweet little one.

And now, she's a full year and two days old! Harper... I love you SO much! You bring so much joy to all of those around you and I'm so thankful to have you in my life!

The Thompsons

2011-10-14T15:30:00.000-04:00

You've seen this family on the blog a good bit... Diana and I lived together our last year and a half of college and for the past couple of years, we try and get together for a family photo session whenever they're in the upper part of the state. It gives us a chance to catch up as well as take pictures. Ben and I went to see them and Wyatt this summer, but Miss Ruthie had not yet made her appearance. But now she's here! And she's beautiful.... as you will see below :-)

It was really great to see you guys... and to meet your baby girl!!

Wyatt was a very busy little boy during this session...

But, being the gentleman that his daddy is teaching him to be,
he stopped a couple of times for mommy and then for Ruthie.

I love pouty baby lips!

Ruthie's Aunt Stacy made the hat... is it not adorable? And it matched the suitcase!!

We've gotten a picture of Wyatt's shoes almost every year... and I love these little Tom's!

Gosh, would you look at those eyelashes...

When Ruthie fell asleep, we took full advantage and snapped a LOT of pictures.

Sweetness.

Double sweetness.

This seemed like the perfect picture to end on...

Happy Friday, everyone!

The Childresses

2011-10-13T17:40:00.001-04:00

You've seen these guys on the blog before. And this Saturday, Harper will be turning ONE!! But those specific pictures will have to wait until she's actually a full year old :-) Last Saturday morning was a mini-session kind of morning in Clemson. I met up with this precious family and another... who you will see tomorrow on the blog!

Oh, Harper... I love your smile!

And I love your goofy faces!!

I also love your serious model face. You rock!

Y'all are adorable... even when Harper decides to put on her serious model face :-)

Would you look at that sass! I can't help but love it.

I think the sass was because of her shoes she had on.

I'm sorry... I just had to include this one. I REALLY wish I knew what she had been thinking in this moment!

This series of black and whites make my heart oh so very happy :-)

Happy Fall, you guys... and Happy Birthday on Saturday, Harper!!

Going to the Chapel...

2011-10-05T19:19:00.003-04:00

This time in one month we will have walked down the aisle, been pronounced as Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Fields and will probably be getting ready to cut our cake! It's so hard to believe that it's so soon and I'm beyond excited!!! There's still a good bit to do, but after a couple of friends confronting me in love earlier this week, I'm in full-on planning and let's-get-this-done mode. And oh my goodness... it is so amazing to get things accomplished!

Ben and I had decided a while ago that when the time came, we didn't want a long engagement... and four months has been JUST right for us. I know it's not right for everyone, but it's been perfect for us. Planning a wedding hasn't been my favorite thing in the world, but knowing that it's all leading up to the day that I get to marry such an amazing man and start our life together has made every item on the to-do list worth it :-)

With just a month to go, some have said that it's crunch time. And, in a way, they're right. But, I'm just glad we only have one more month of saying goodbye when we say goodnight, we only have one more month of living apart, we only have one more month before we become one and start our life together.

And because every post is better with a picture, here's a sneak peak at some of my jewelry I'll be wearing on the big day :-) Don't you just love it??

Emily Anne | 3 Months

2011-09-30T08:00:00.000-04:00

Meghan's sister and I are close friends from Clemson. So, when Meghan came to Clemson as a freshman, we all knew who she was and loved her because we loved Jill! I even had the joy of seeing Meghan and Eric on their wedding day because Jill's daughter, who was maybe 3 or 6 months old at the time, was a tad too young to go to the wedding. So, she and I bonded while Meghan and Eric pledged to love each other in sickness and in health, for richer and for poorer, and as long as they both shall live.

And now, they've begun their adorable little family! I've been hearing about Miss Emily for months and was SOOOO excited to go and meet this little one. Her eyes are as blue as her mom's and her countenance as laid back as her dad's. She was such a rock star that the only reason we stopped with pictures is because I had my first wedding shower to get to (crazy!).

Meghan and Eric, thank you so much for letting me capture you and your little one last weekend. She is beautiful and SUCH a delight! I hope you enjoy the pictures!

I just LOVED the nursery!!

Meghan's been doing these little cutouts each month and taking a picture with them and Emily in the grey chair in the corner.

She's just so talented and crafty!!

What a perfect sign for a little girl to grow up with in her room. I love it.

Aunt Jill gave Emily this dress... and she loved it.

Is that not just the sweetest face you've ever seen??

I love her little toes!!

Love.

Love again.

Emily was taking a breather and kicking her feet up. Modeling is a tough job!

A little behind the scenes action...

The.Second. I took this picture, I bursted out laughing. I LOVE the look on her face!!

Eric was making her laugh in the picture on the right.... Eric, don't ever stop hugging her or making her laugh!

Emily's cousins and Aunt Jill stopped by before the Clemson game and I just adore this one of the girls!

We headed over to Furman to wrap up the session with some pictures in the mall...

Meghan! You're just such a beautiful and wonderful mommy.

BeStillMyHeart... her smile and laughter is precious.

Clearly, even babies think I'm hilarious.

I had to end with this one because I think we may have another one like this in 30 years as she's addressing Congress!

Sneak Peak! | Emily Anne

2011-09-26T20:07:00.002-04:00

I couldn't decide on just one for the sneak peak... so there are two. More to come!

Newborn | Emily Grace

2011-09-23T01:13:00.000-04:00

I was so excited to get a call from Amy about taking pictures of her new granddaughter... and I was even more excited to arrive for the newborn pictures to see the precious little one that was barely a week old! Marissa, your baby girl is beautiful and amazingly cute. Thank you for trusting me with capturing these images! I can't wait to see you again in six months and see how much she's grown. Enjoy it though, the time goes by quickly!

Baby fingers and toes are some of the most precious and sweetest things ever...

Sometimes it's just rough being a beautiful model...!

Be still my heart... would you look at that sweet face!

She's already got a lot on her mind :-)

Some of my favorite pictures are the ones like these with mom just loving on her baby...
There's just nothing quite as sweet.

Don't worry... when you see the next picture, you'll understand.

Being a beautiful model is hard work and requires nourishment on a regular basis!

Marissa... she only has eyes for you! Look how much she loves you already!

Ok, these next few are in the running for "Top Favorite Pictures", but I couldn't decide on the color or black and white for the one in the green dress. So, I've posted them both. I didn't think you would mind :-)

Oh. My. Goodness. Favorite. Picture. Ever.

And this was a really close second :-)

Emily, I know it wasn't the best of days, but you were such a trooper for your first photo session! Keep growing strong, keep loving your family, and I'll see you again in six months!

Seniors | Sarah

2011-09-19T12:00:00.000-04:00

Sarah is one of the girls in my d-group, so I've known her since she was in 9th grade. Even tonight in talking with her about going to visit some colleges over the next few weeks, I may have gotten a little teary eyed. There is a lot of growing that happens between 9th and 12th grade and to have been a part of that with her and these others girls has been such a joy and a privilege.

She's not yet sure where she is going to school, but I know that wherever she ends up, she will have fun and will be a blessing to others! She's the girl who, with her gorgeous smile and excitement for life, can make anyone feel like they are the most important person in the room.

Sarah, thanks for hanging out with me these two times to get your senior pictures. And thank you for being so flexible with the crazy weather we had at the end of our first attempt! You are gorgeous and I'm so thankful to have you in my life.

What did I tell you... gorgeous smile!

I just adore her laugh!

I think this picture below is one of my favorite pictures. Ever.

Sarah's family lives "outside of town", which basically means they not only have some cool land, but they also have some really cool locations close to their house - pictures above and below can attest to that!

Sarah. Are you for real? You're stunning!

And this would be her family's farm... where Ben and I actually had our engagement pictures taken!

Sarah wouldn't say she's a "guitar player", but I know that she enjoys playing.
She plays the piano beautifully so I can only imagine that she's just being humble about her guitar playing.

There's her laugh again! :-)

Fabulous Friday | Large Canvases

2011-09-16T17:55:00.000-04:00

Something I love is getting images off of my computer and onto a wall. It's so hard to do that - even with my own pictures from trips or with family! So, I'm not only encouraging you through this post, but myself as well. I'm in the slow process of decorating the back room in my house so that it's a functional office. I've had a couple smaller canvases leaning against a wall for a while, but once I got a couple of chairs back there and some book shelves up, I realized that the wall space I had called for something bigger than the little 11x14 and 16x20. Don't get me wrong, I love those canvases. But I wanted something B-I-G. So, I got a 24x36 inch canvas from Kirstine and Christopher's wedding last year on 10-10-10. So, don't be afraid of going big!

What do you think?

Anything smaller wouldn't have worked in that space.

Sneak Peak! | Sarah Diggins

2011-09-12T08:00:00.000-04:00

Love this girl... and her senior pictures. More coming soon!

Fabulous Friday | The Help & Mississippi & Thank Yous

2011-09-09T08:30:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago, as Ben and I walked out of the movie theater from seeing The Help, we raved over the movie, the injustice of what has happened in our country's history, and what it would have been like to have lived during those decades. As we walked to the car, I asked Ben if he realized that when we took our trip to Mississippi to see some friends, we'd be going to Jackson... where the movie and book are based. He gave me that look that had a mixture of awe and excitement. Everything just became a little more real! So, even though he had already listened to the audio version of the book, we decided to listen to it again on the way there and back. And since we didn't finish it, I have since downloaded it to finish listening... and I'm realizing that most of my thoughts - especially as I type this out - have more of a southern drawl than I normally speak with. Normally.

The weekend was wonderful. My relationship with these friends began with Myrna and I working together and then taking a mission trip to South Africa in 2005. Over the next few summers, including 2005, her son joined us for mission trips to New York City and Ukraine. He then interned with me the summer after that. So, between these trips, going to MS for working get-aways at Myrna's, helping out with her children's weddings and photographing along the way, I not only got to know Myrna and her son, but her husband, her daughter, her son-in-law, her daughter-in-law, her parents, her in-laws, and several others.

So, since her son and daughter-in-law are expecting their first baby the first weekend of November, none of them will be able to travel to SC for the wedding. While I shed some tears over this as we connected the dots and details soon after becoming engaged, it also became clear that a trip to MS for Ben to meet everyone was a must. So, we hopped in the car and went!

The thing about this trip is that I not only was reminded of how blessed I am by this family, but I was reminded and completely humbled by how blessed I am, period. God has put so many people into my life that love me and have welcomed me as part of their family. So, not only do I have a wonderful and amazing and loving family already, but I have several other families that I've "gained" over the years. And I'm about to gain another one come November 5! The only difference is that this time, just like my own family, they're stuck with me :-)

Ben and I were going to stop at other signs along the interstate on the way home, but thanks to Tropical Storm Lee, it rained the. entire. way. home. I think it let up maybe twice. And never at a point when we needed to stop. At least it provided lots of laughter running to and from the car!

To my wonderful and amazing and loving mom and brother (and extended family too!): Thank you for the past (almost) 32 years. We've done a lot of growing and learning together over the years and I would not trade where God has brought us for anything... it's made us who we are and I'm thankful for each of you.

To my "adopted" families: Thank you for welcoming me into your homes and hearts when you didn't have to. Each of you has shown me the Lord in different ways, which has helped me learn and grow in ways I wouldn't have dreamed.

To my soon-to-be family: Thank you for loving me so much already. The first time I sat at Ben's sister and brother-in-law's table over dinner, I looked around thinking and wondering if one day this would be my family too... and I'm thrilled to soon be a part of you!

To my soon-to-be husband: Thank you for loving me. Thank you for loving me as Christ loved the church and showing me, daily, what that looks like here on earth. Thank you for being my best friend and for asking me to spend the rest of my life with you. I love you.

The Hills

2011-09-07T08:51:00.000-04:00

No, I do not mean that tv show that I've never seen. The Hills are a WONDERFUL family that I've gotten to know a little bit over the past few years. The first time I took Financial Peace University (it's free to take it anytime after and it's always good info to hear over and over again!), Chris and Rebecca were leading it and for the first time in my life, I wasn't cringing at the word budget. Since then, they've helped me figure out how to pay down debt and helped me get my photography business set up! And now, after talking about it for quite some time, we were able to get together and take some family pictures.

Downtown Greenville is one of my most favorite places. So, when they said they were up for a more "urban" feel to their pictures, I was thrilled! One of the girls took a little longer to warm up to the camera, but once she did, she was ALL smiles! Thank you guys so much for your help over the years. If not for your willingness to help others with finances, I might still be struggling to get this business off the ground!

Even though it took a while to warm up to the camera, this sweet picture was worth it!

There aren't a lot of alleys like this in Greenville... so I'm always thankful to find one!

Love it!

These two are adorable. They are the sweetest of sisters.

So adorable!

This is my favorite "alley". The light is always SO GOOD!

Canvas!!!

The girls were so sweet, since we were taking a "girl's picture", they wanted their dad to take the picture so I could be in it too!
I told them this was their photo session so I needed to stay behind the camera :-)

Y'all are awesome. Thanks for trusting me with a family portrait on the sidewalk!

Fabulous Friday | DIY Flowers

2011-09-02T14:27:00.000-04:00

Even before getting engaged, even before meeting Ben, I was taking pictures... and taking pictures of weddings. So, if I had a few minutes during the day or was waiting in line at the store, I was probably on one of a few blogs that I visit regularly. Granted, my PURPOSE for visiting those blogs now has increased since I'm not only looking at them as a photographer but now as a bride.

But even aside from all of that, one of the DIY (Do It Yourself) things I saw on a few blogs pretty consistently was about flowers. I LOVE flowers. But I've always been horrible with arranging them!!

When I was living in Brussels, there was a flower stand that would be close to our house at least once a week and with the beautiful flowers and the not-so-expensive prices, we almost always had fresh flowers in the house. And I loved it! So, with dual purpose, I went to Whole Foods last week and purchased some baby's breath (and spur of the moment, some solidago aster (don't worry, you'll see what it is in a minute)), went to Hobby Lobby and purchased some small inexpensive glass containers (that were 50% off!!) and came home for some arts and crafts. And I'm so. excited. with what came out of it.

Baby's breath is pretty inexpensive. And as you pull it apart, it seems to multiply! And, it's gorgeous. So with those two things, there wasn't a ton of arranging to do, which was awesome! So, brides, if you're thinking about flowers, think about using baby's breath... on it's own!

In trying to figure out what to do with aisle markers for the pews at the wedding, one of my friends suggested getting some cones or something to tie around the pews and put flowers in. But with the vintage/antique European theme of the wedding, I remembered I had some scrapbook paper that, no lie, is called Euro Vintage. So, I wrapped it into a cone, taped it closed, punched a hole in the top of the back (which is covered up by flowers) and tied some ribbon around it to hang. Then I pulled the baby's breath apart and stuck it in. And I love it. Just. Love. It.

Now, I want to give credit where it's due, so some of this post was inspired by the fabulous Katelyn James. She did a DIY post on doilies (yes, those things I swore I'd never have use for) and she was so right - they just add a little extra prettiness and I'm a fan.

Do you see the doilies? They're so simple, so inexpensive, and so much better than just a brown table or even a patterned table cloth!

Katelyn (since we're on a first name basis), talks about adding height to center pieces when using a few different vases. Both of these smaller ones were about $3 each (thank you 50% off!), but they were about the same height. So all I did was grab a few books from my French lit class in college to add a little something extra.

I don't know if I'll use the solidago aster at the wedding, but I really like it!!

Happy Labor Day weekend!

Sneak Peak! | The Hills

2011-08-29T18:01:00.003-04:00

More coming soon!

EJ is 9 Months!

2011-08-24T17:29:00.001-04:00

I LOVE doing Baby's First Year pictures because I get to watch these babies as they reach various milestones within their first year of life. And 9 months is so fun because at this point you can see their little personalities and you're getting to know THEM as people and not just a baby.

Being at the same church as these guys, I've seen EJ from time to time, but I was excited to take his next set of pictures so that I could see him and hang out for a bit! And EJ... oh my word. He's a doll. I know you aren't supposed to call boys "dolls" but he's so lovable and sweet and such a cute little chunky monkey! I love it!! EJ... it's hard to believe you're going to be a year old so soon. Can't wait to see you again!

Funny story... as I pulled into Sarah and Cas's driveway, I looked toward their neighbors yard and LOVED what I saw. And because this family is so awesome, they were totally game for taking pictures over there! And their neighbors were totally cool with it too :-)

The looks on the boys' faces right here are amazing.

Y'all are such a precious family!

PLEASE notice EJ's look on his face in the picture on the right.
I would have LOVED to know what he was thinking as he looked at me with that face!

This right here is one of my favorites...
I love when daddies toss their babies into the air because the smiles are SO genuine!

When Wyatt was 9 months old, we put him on these same steps. They're now some of my favorite steps.

And this black and white picture? I drool over it every time I see it!

The sweetness in these next several pictures may tug at your heartstrings.

LOVE.

I love how EJ is looking up at his big brother in both of these family pictures. Wyatt... EJ is always going to be looking up to you and it's your job, as his big brother, to look out for him, help him learn the ropes in life, and have as much fun together as you possibly can. Promise me you'll do those things, ok? Ok!

I love this... a family that's "All In". Whatever happens, they now have 8 hands to tackle it with!

Love you guys... can't wait to see you again soon!

Sneak Peak! | EJ at 9 Months

2011-08-21T23:12:00.000-04:00

Can't wait to show you more of these... You're really going to ooo and ahh when you see the rest!

Fabulous Friday | Class of 2012

2011-08-19T16:06:00.000-04:00

Summer is over and school is back in session. Hopefully we'll soon have cooler temperatures to reflect that fall is almost here! In the meantime, be sure to book your senior portrait session so you and your family can look back and remember this really fun and unique time in your life.

In honor of the class of 2012, the first 12 seniors to book their session will receive 2 free mini-albums (4x4 inches when closed); one to keep and one to share!

Email sabrina.lewis@yahoo.com to book your session!

Harper is 9 months!

2011-08-18T07:51:00.000-04:00

I love this little girl so much. And I don't think I'm ever going to tire of taking pictures of her! Sadly, we missed her 6 month pictures, but we were able to catch her at 9 months... and I don't say that lightly because girlfriend was on the move for much of the session. She's not walking yet, but she is crawling!

We got up early a couple of Fridays ago, which may be the only time this summer that it was possible to have an outdoor photo session without melting. And Harper was such a trooper! I'm so proud of her and I'm really excited about the photos we captured. It's just hard to believe that in such a short time we'll be taking her ONE YEAR OLD pictures!

Harper, tell your mommy and daddy thanks for letting you come out and play. See you soon!

Much love, "Aunt" Sabrina

Her smile and those blue eyes... I'm just in love with them!

And those cheeks! I just love kissing those adorable cheeks!

Be still my heart...

I'm also in love with these next two photos...

And oh. em. gee. Harper, please ask your parents to have a canvas printed of this one!

Ah... her smile makes me smile!

We've taken pictures of her in these bloomers when she was four days old and again when she was three months.

We aren't sure how much longer she'll be able to wear them!

Sometimes, Harper gets these looks... and she looks just like her daddy.

It's a little scary :-)

I love watching her discover things!

Harper... you are beautiful. And I love you so much!

Sneak Peak! | Adorableness

2011-08-11T18:42:00.000-04:00

There really isn't much to say other than I love this girl and that she's super adorable. And that she has the most kissable little cheeks on her super sweet face!

Married | Nicole and Nathan

2011-08-09T11:42:00.001-04:00

So, I've gotten a little behind. Nicole and Nathan were married on a gorgeous day in June. Yes, I said JUNE. Luckily, I was second shooting for the amazing Kim DeLoach who blogged their gorgeous wedding just a few weeks after they said "I do"! So be sure and check out her blog post too.

This wedding was a little extra to help with because Nicole and I, while we work in different departments, work together at church. So, even though they were married 2 months ago, I still get to see her beautiful face from time to time and yes... she's still smiling as much as she was the day she became Mrs. Nathan Craig!

We started the morning at Nicole's aunt and uncle's house where she was getting ready.
We would return later for the reception.

The amazing Val doing her work!

Nicole's dad hung each of the paper lanterns himself. And they looked great!

The flowers and various other things were wrapped in burlap and I LOVED it!

The blue dresses and the bright flowers just made everything pop.

And yes, Nicole even made these necklaces for her bridesmaids!

Nicole's dad seeing her after getting ready...

And her mom looking on while we took pictures.

This is one of those shots that makes me love second shooting!

Um, please check out the girls shoes. Because they're awesome.

Radiant!

Another shot that reminds me of why second shooting is so much fun.

A detail shot of Nicole with her mom.

After we finished pictures with the girls, we headed on up to the chapel at the Cliffs at Glassy where the guys were ready and waiting. It was SUPER bright and getting warm, but the guys were troopers!

Are these little guys not super adorable??

I love how the little one's tie is just a little crooked :-)

I just love her face in this shot!

There was lots of laughter before, during, and after the ceremony.

Married!!!

This is the smile that was not hard to find during the entire day!

She smiled during their entire first dance...

This is why I love capturing love. The joy is just contagious!

The look on her face is just priceless.

And it's still there...

But they were nice to each other :-)

Many thanks to Kim, Nicole, and Nathan for letting me tag along and help capture the day. It was an honor to be there and celebrate with you!

Fabulous Friday | Cookies and Friends

2011-08-05T17:55:00.000-04:00

Ben and I are at the beach visiting one of my college roommates and her family for the weekend (woohoo!). And tonight we experimented with a recipe she found on Pinterest. It's an Oreo cookie inside of a chocolate chip cookie. YUM. Have a good weekend and I'll have some pictures for you early next week!

One Month and a Sneak Peak

2011-08-01T23:19:00.001-04:00

Wow! It's hard to believe that a month ago today is when Ben asked me to marry him. And it's been a crazy month. With November 5 quickly approaching, we've had our noses to the grindstone in order to plan this wedding. Things are coming together and it's amazing how it feels when one more thing just locks into place! It's like a puzzle that I know we're going to love... and while we have an idea about everything, we don't fully yet know what it's all going to look like. So, as these pieces come together, you can understand our excitement as one more thing gets figured out!

Sadly, with the craziness of being engaged, working, planning a wedding, doing our "normal everyday things", and still spending time together, blogging has fallen to the wayside. BUT, I'm aiming to get better with that! And there are some super fun and beautiful pictures screaming to be posted... so be on the lookout for some of those posts later this week!

Until then, I leave you with this picture of Nicole and Nathan's wedding (at which I second shot for Kim DeLoach!) a few minutes after they became husband and wife back in June. I love it! And I can't wait to share more with you later this week.

Fabulous Friday | Albums

2011-07-22T16:52:00.000-04:00

It has been such a long time coming. I've wanted to be able to offer albums for such a long time and it has driven me crazy trying to get my act together to make it happen. After asking around and looking at different companies and then trying to figure out the entire design process, everything finally came into place a few months ago. One of the things about several of the amazing companies out there is that they have so. many. options. And my brain was getting overloaded. Now, for some people, options are fabulous. Because they're way more creative than I am!

But, I just wanted simple... for the benefit of my sanity and to help out my clients by keeping it simple for them as well. Enter KISS Wedding Books. I found out about them and their design software (that's online!) from the workshop I attended with Zach & Jody back in April. Well, especailly after seeing them and some more of their albums just recently in Charlotte at the PASS Premiere Tour, it was decided. Here was my album company!

I talked to one of my bride's mom's who I see fairly often and she loved that we could make this happen... for their one year anniversary present! So, as I ordered that album, I ordered a few sample albums and I'm SO excited to share them with you. Photographs by Sabrina is excited to now begin offering wedding albums, engagement albums, senior session albums and more! I hope you're as excited about these as we are :-)

Below are two mini-KISSes, a 10x10 linen engagement album, and a 10x10 leather wedding album.

I'm so in love with these little guys, I can hardly stand it. They're adorable!!

And the best part is that you get two... one for mom and one for whomever she decides to let have the other one :-)

This is the 10x10 linen engagement album. It's slim and sleek and can be used for a guest book or a keepsake.

I used Brent and Abigail's engagement session for this sample album. They are so adorable!

These can be intentionally designed to leave room for guests to sign their well wishes at your wedding!

And last but not least, the 10x10 leather wedding album.

The pages are thick and durable.

I'm still in love with the flowers from Cody and Seth's wedding last summer.

The lay-flat pages are fabulous!

Happy weekend!

Ashley and Kevan

2011-07-21T22:14:00.001-04:00

Ashley was one of "my" interns at church last summer. And then I got to hang out with her some in the Bahamas on one of our student mission trips. And then I had the privilege of helping Kim DeLoach shoot her wedding this past December. As Kim said in her post, with the evening wedding in December, we were able to get some pretty cool night pictures, but we weren't able to get any portraits of Ashley and Kevan before the sunset. So, six months after their wedding, Kim and I took them back into downtown by the Reedy River and had a fun and relaxed portrait session!

This was one of those times that we as photographers don't often get. Kim and I tag-teamed and took turns shooting and second shooting. And Ashley and Kevan were up for just about anything! I'm thinking we should do this more often :-)

Thanks, Ashley and Kevan (and Kim!), for a fun afternoon!

We had individual pictures of them on these stairs so now we were able to get some photos of them together.

And then we found this little gem of a spot...

Y'all are amazing!

I. am. in. L-O-V-E. with these two shots...

This would look really good as a LARGE canvas. TRUST me!

The ivy was fabulous.

Y'all are WONDERFUL for coming out in the heat and letting us photograph you guys. I hope you enjoy the pictures we were able to get in December AND for your six month celebration!

Wedding Planning and a Sneak Peak

2011-07-18T15:47:00.002-04:00

Wow! We've been engaged for 17 days already. And our wedding is in 109 days! I'm only s-l-i-g-h-t-l-y excited. I have my dress, my mom has her dress, we have the bridesmaids dresses picked out, we have the groom and groomal party's attire picked out, we're working on the catering menu with my brother, we're working on figuring out the reception site, and most importantly, we have the photographers :-) Just kidding. Sort of.

Seriously though, as we were calling people and giving them the news, my photographers were some of the first people I called. I needed to make sure they were available before we got too deep into this wedding planning! The last thing I wanted was to have my heart set on a date and then find out that they weren't available. So, as I mentioned on Facebook last week, our photographers are going to be none other than the wonderful duo of Kim DeLoach and Jana Candler. Both of these ladies are not just friends of mine, but they're AMAZING fellow photographers, they love the Lord, and I've worked with both of them before. And have loved it. When it came down to choosing the photographers, I knew that having people there that I loved and trusted to capture the day were some of the most important criteria. Plus, they're just really fun!

I'm so excited to marry this man that I've fallen head over heels in love with and I'm still in a "happy shock" that I get to spend the rest of my life with him. And I think it will help this business too! I've spent the past year attending several workshops and learning more about the business side of things, but Ben is much more business minded than I am, so as you begin to see changes (minor ones that will hopefully make a big impact!), you'll know that his hand has already been a part of it!

Anyway, there are still 109 days to keep you up to speed on the planning and what we're up to. In the meantime, however, I have pictures to blog! Before I went on vacation, I helped Kim DeLoach shoot a portrait session for our couple from December. Kim already has her post up, but I'll have mine up later this week! Can't WAIT to show you more!