the broxtonArt blog

the new blog

2009-05-10T11:11:00.002-06:00

In the words of Etta James, "At Last"! The new blog is live. Check it out here: http://www.broxtonart.com/blog/
Enjoy!

So Close...

2009-02-12T13:58:00.006-07:00

Here's the story of our trip to Washington DC for the Inauguration,

We board the plane to seats 4d and 4e. There are people in our seats, so we sat in 4a and 4b. The flight was packed and we were among the last to board. I soon realized from previous flights into Reagan National that we were now on the side that would get a view of the monuments and the Capitol. We watched the Sunday concert at the Lincoln Memorial during the flight and I captured pictures about an hour after it ended as we landed. I was glad that we didn't ask for our correct seats!
Monday morning we're off to a leisurely start with breakfast at Denny's.
How prophetic the headline in USA Today!
After making our way to the home of Bev Terrell who graciously hosted us, we headed over to Howard University for the Refresh the World series of symposiums hosted by Spike Lee. Click on the link to see the complete list of moderators and panelists.
The first was "Refresh Gender". The panel included Bay Buchanan, Hillary Rosen, and Rosario Dawson among others.
After a short break, "Refresh Hip Hop" took place with Queen Latifah, Ludicris, and Sean Combs, among others.
During the break, Spike Lee had the Homecoming Queen of Howard University and her court display these signs which represent this historic time in history: Before, During, and After Barrack.
Then it was time for the highlight of the day, the "Refreshing Black America" panel moderated by Roland Martin. Traffic was terrible around the city, so the panel assembled over the course of 20 minutes or so. Tara Wall, Dr Henry Louis Gates, Jesse Jackson, Donna Brazile, Amy Holmes, and Rev Al Sharpton provided a lively discussion that was broadcast live on CNN.
Dr Gates and Donna Brazile dancing for the crowd
Pat and Bev
Here's a quick shot of Ben's Chili Bowl. The line stretched around the block, and it was close to midnight!
It's about 5:00 am the morning of the Inauguration. I grew up on the east coast, and spend many days in DC during the winter. I forgot how cold "cold" is! Give me winter in Denver any day! We were dressed for it, but it was still cold!
Union Station
Another piece of prophecy; the stop sign
Glad to see that Frederick Douglass and a member of the Buffalo Soldiers decided to make the trip!
Waiting for the gates to open
Still waiting!
As big as the crowd was, my wife Pat, heard a familiar voice talking on a cell phone, and it was her cousin that made the trip from Atlanta. What a coincidence!
No comment needed
After waiting almost 3 hours to get through security, this is as far as we got. The Secret Service shut down access across Pennsylvania Avenue, and we couldn't get over to the Mall. We waited until 10:30 hoping that they would allow access, then made the decision to head back to the house and watch it on TV. The one consulation, it was warm!
We did attend a ball that evening that was really nice. I didn't take my camera, and there weren't any celebreties in attendance. The food and the band were excellent, and we had a lot of fun.

So, as the headline said, "Just the feeling of being here!"

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T17:02:00.003-07:00

I want to take a moment and wish everyone a Happy New Year and a safe New Years Eve; be careful out there!

This will be the last post on Blogger. I have a new Wordpress blog that I hope to have "live" in the next week or so. If you are on Facebook, check out my page where I have posted a photo album "thank you" to all the brides and grooms that I have had the honor to photograph in 2008.

I had wonderful clients in 2008, and had the opportunity to photograph in some very cool places. My favorite photo from the year was a very simple one, in the corner of the photo gallery in the Museum of Contemporary Art in Denver. The early evening light played against the gray walls and Betsy looked Vogue Magazine stunning in her gown.
Here's my favorite image from a workshop. I had the pleasure of co-hosting another workshop with the great David Beckstead. At the end of a long night shoot, we directed the model inside the fence of a trash dumpster. With David holding a video loght on the other side of the fence, I was able to capture this image at ISO 12,800. I think in this case, the spot color of the red lips works too. My apologies to all the spot color haters:-).
Let's all have a great 2009!

Graham and Ande make it official!

2008-12-16T09:25:00.009-07:00

Graham and I worked together at AT&T Wireless back in the day, before I bailed to become a fulltime photographer, and Graham soon followed. I received a call from him about a week or so ago that he was going to propose to his sweetheart Ande, and wanted me to not only photograph it, but also to assist him in pulling it off. My immediate comment to him was, " You guys aren't married?!"

I met them at The Hornet, a special place for them, under the impression that I was just going to do a few nighttime fun pics. During our walk down Broadway, Graham slipped me the ring for his later move. Once we found the appropriate spot, Graham asked me if I had anything that would work for a ring, and I looked around on the ground for a cigar band or something, but gave him the beautiful antique ring to put on her finger. Now for some news that Graham didn't know. When he gave me the ring, I slipped it on my pinky so it would be ready to go. When it came time for me to give it to him, I couldn't get it off! But though persistance and a little stalling, I managed to remove it. Whew!

Here are a few of the pictures.
I loved the look on this guys face as Graham and Ande were going at it!
Showtime!
I like this one with the dude coming out of the building with the cigarette.
Thank you for having me do this for you! Graham...it's about time!

Heather & Robert

2008-12-11T21:53:00.010-07:00

My last wedding of the year was Heather and Robert's on a crisp but beautiful Friday evening at one of my favorite venues, The Sanctuary. I photograph a number of weddings at The Sanctuary each year, and every one provides so many different opportunities for unique images. It was a wonderful evening! Heather and Robert were wonderful to work with, and with the help of two of my good friends, who also happen to be great photographers, Dawn Sparks and Joe Keum, we had a blast and captured some very cool images. My thanks to Kelsey, Kevin, David, and the rest of the fabulous staff at The Sanctuary for their impeccable service. And also a big thank you to Mike Novelli of Rising Moon Video for providing the great video light and for the evening outdoor images.

I don't usually highlight dress images, but I love Heather's reflection in the mirror.
Heather catching big air, and convinced Robert to try and match her!
Heather with her sisters Jasmine and Kelly. Yes, they're triplets!
I think they have the record for the longest courtship of any of the weddings that I have photographed!
Robert's reaction to the surprise of the Lion Dancers. They met during a Chinese New Year's Celebration.
Thank you to Heather and Robert for a great finish to a great wedding season!

Out and About in Memphis

2008-12-04T13:40:00.009-07:00

I hope everyone had a happy and safe Thanksgiving holiday. I had the pleasure of spending it with my wife's family in Brownsville, Tennessee, which is a small farming community about an hour or so east of Memphis on U.S. 40. With all the trips that I have taken to Tennessee over the last 18 years, I've never spent any time in Memphis other than the airport and our wedding night at The Peabody. So this year I made it a point to spend a day in Memphis, visiting the sites and photographing. It was a perfect clear and bright day with the temperature about 70 degrees. I visited the landmark Stax Records, Graceland, Beale Street, and the Lorraine Motel and Civil Rights museum. I took my fair share of "tourist" photos at those locations, but I also spent time taking a bunch of other stuff, some of which is below. For my fellow photographers that are interested in this sort of thing, all pictures were taken with my Nikon D200 and the 17-55 2.8 Nikkor lens.

I stopped by the visitors center on hwy 40 to pick up a street map and saw these birds hanging out.
The neighborhood around the Stax Museum was filled with colorful abandoned buildings.
Weeds grow anywhere!
This street was pretty rough!
Here's a few taken along the lower part of Beale Street and walking around downtown Memphis.
A vintage Dodge parked below the balcony of the Lorraine Motel where Dr King was assassinated.
I loved the colors as darkness set in.
Beale Street at night
The rest of these were taken on the backroad to Jackson, Tennessee, which is about 30 miles east of Brownsville.
Next time, it's a day or so in Nashville!

And now there are two...websites that is!

2008-11-21T11:45:00.010-07:00

I photographed my last (as far as I know) wedding of 2008. After a Thursday of temperatures in the 30's, Friday was the perfect day with temperatures near 60 degrees. I'll post a few pictures from Heather and Roberts wedding at the Sanctuary in a week or so, but below is one of my favorites from the day. My good friends Joe Keum and Dawn Sparks joined me and we all got some great images thanks to a wonderful bride and groom. Check out the website for a bunch of new images in my galleries.
I thought that this would be a great time to formally introduce my new broxtonArt "portraits" website. I have been doing family portrait and children sessions on a limited basis for quite sometime. Typically it's for previous wedding clients and their families. After hearing them tell me over and over that I should market these services to everyone, I've finally decided to do it! All the info is on the website, including introductory session fees.

The galleries include childrens portraits;
couples and individual portraits;
family portraits;
and engagement sessions.
I have also included the "other stuff" gallery. Here you'll find pictures that I've taken out and about;
pictures from some of the many concerts that I have attended, plus work that I've done for KUVO;
and automobile art. These galleries will continue to grow, so please check back regularly.
Enjoy the pictures, and spread the word!

Please have safe travels and a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Jaclyn and John

2008-11-14T14:27:00.012-07:00

I had the great pleasure of helping out my good friend and great photographer Phillip Lloyd photographing Jaclyn and John's wedding at the Atlantis resort in Nassau. Jaclyn and John were a great couple and the photography part of the wedding was of great importance to them. Not only did we have them on their wedding day for pictures, but they also gave us the day after! Phil and I were in photographer heaven! Here are a few of the images

The beautiful bride
Phil scoped out the frosted shower door in her suite as a cool place for an edgy portrait
This was done while we were waiting for the elevator. Atlantis has a treasure trove of interesting locations for pictures; some obvious, and others a little less so.
This was in the elevator
Here's a few from the ceremony. There was a hurricane going on too, but we missed the worst of it. It was just a bit breezy and it rained soon after the ceremony.
I love their expressions on these two
After the ceremony we took a walk through the property
That's the hurricane in the background
The reception was moved inside to Fathoms.
A bit of dancing
The storm passed, and we were ready for a few day after pictures
A bride that was willing to lay on the floor of the spa! Whatever it takes for a cool picture!
Once again, there were so many cool places to shoot within the resort. This was out side one of the dining spots.
Jaclyn and John got dressed up one last time for a dip in the ocean.
Thanks to Phil for the invite, and thanks to Jaclyn and John for being a dream couple to work with!

Dana and Brian

2008-10-30T12:06:00.012-06:00

The Broadmoor provided the backdrop for Dana and Brian's beautiful fall wedding. Not only were Dana and Brian a great couple to work with, but their family and friends were a lot of fun to be around. They had a full weekend with their rehearsal dinner at the Cheyenne Lodge on Friday evening kicking things off. Western attire was abundantly on display that evening.

Brian and Dana on the deck of the Lodge with the lights of Colorado Springs in the background.
When Krista and I arrived at the Broadmoor on Saturday, we were greeted by a four legged welcoming committee!
The shoes
A pre ceremony toast with the bride and bridesmaids
I love this shot of Brian by Krista
One of my favorite photographs from the day. Here shoes were not cooperating.
Brian seeing Dana for the first time
Signing the Ketubah
No pictures were allowed to be taken during the ceremony, so I snapped this one and only after they made their way down the aisle.
Faye Gardenswartz coordinated everything to perfection. And hats off to Dever Design Works for the great decor and the staff at the Broadmoor making sure Krista and I were well taken care of.
As I have stated on previous blog posts, I love Jewish weddings! They know how to put on a party!
Check out Dana's expression!
A kiss from mom.
Ending the great celebration with a couple of quick ones outside.
A brunch followed on Sunday, and then they were off to Thailand on Monday morning.

Betsy and Tim

2008-10-20T18:41:00.010-06:00

A perfect October evening was the backdrop for Betsy and Tim's wedding. The early evening ceremony was at the pavilion in Cheeseman Park with the reception at the Museum of Contemporary Art. It was the first wedding reception ever held at the MCA, and I was really looking forward to it. When Betsy described her fishnet veil and sleek gown, I knew Krista and I would have the opportunity for some excellent images. Betsy and Tim also requested that most of the images be in classic black & white. No problem there, as my background is in fine art b&w photography. Oh, those were the days! Here are a few of the pictures:

Getting ready at the Teatro.
Betsy looked fabulous!
A quick portrait of Tim in the hotel hallway
Betsy arriving at the ceremony. I've been wanting to photograph a bride in a fishnet veil for a long time!
Betsy and Tim with all the guests.
A very sylish brother and sister
Krista caught this while I was working from the front. Gotta love that fisheye!
My turn with the fisheye!
Cocktails in the photography gallery at the MCA
The rooftop looking toward the cafe where dinner was served.
Design Works did their usual outstanding job with the decor. Walli Richardson handled the day-of coordinating, and Three Tomatoes handled the cuisine.
This will make the list of one of my favorite images from this year. I love the simplicity.
Kevin and Wendy, whose wedding I photographed last year. A big thank you to Wendy, who recommended me to Betsy.

Beth and Garrett

2008-10-12T13:45:00.009-06:00

I met Beth when she was the bridesmaid in Gina and James' wedding here in Denver. She told me that whenever she get's married that I was going to be her photographer. Fast forward four years, and now it's Beth's turn! She chose the Speed Art Museum in her home town of Louisville, Kentucky for her marriage to Garrett. It was a beautiful weekend, starting with the rehearsal barbecue at a family friends house, and the ceremony and reception at the Speed. It was also great to see Gina and James and their two little girls. Here are a few of the images from the weekend.

A quick portrait of Beth and Garrett in the gallery where the reception would be taking place on Saturday. The piece behind them is Reclining Figure:Angles by Henry Moore
Gina and James, whose wedding was where I met Beth, and their girls Mary, and Savannah.
Friday night barbecue.
The Speed Art Museum.
The children at the wedding were great! So much energy and personality.
Garrett looking very dapper.
Beth was not only a beautiful bride, but a joy to work with. We had so much fun taking pictures!
Walking down the aisle with her dad.
Well, it is an art museum!
Love the fisheye's perspective for this photograph of the wedding party.
One of my favorites from the day.
The art theme was reflected in the place settings and through out many of the wedding details
Dressed up for pictures in the photo booth
A song written especialy for Beth and Garrett
I love the emotion in Garrett's face....
and the look on Beth's.
Someone's flash went off the same time as mine causing a massive overexposure. But I think it looks pretty cool!
It was a great weekend!

The Greatest

2008-10-07T21:30:00.005-06:00

I recently had the pleasure of photographing a wedding in Louisville, Kentucky. I'll post pictures from the wedding in a few days. Until then, here are a few I took at the Ali Center. If you are ever in Louisville, please take a couple of hours to visit. You will not be disappointed!
Steps outside the center that you can walk up and view the riverfront
Reception area. They even offer a AAA discount!
I've got to get artsy! Here's a couple of shots of the escalator that takes you up to the 5th floor auditorium to start your journey with a great film presentation.
There is an extensive proactive exhibit depicting the racial and cultural climate of the times. It really puts in perspective the courage Muhammad Ali had.
First person accounts of what Muhammad Ali meant to people
You can watch every Ali fight with the original commentary
It's hard to tell from the picture, but I'm a floor up shooting down at a full size boxing ring. They show a 15 minute prerntation on the ring floor.
Another set of stairs
A juxtaposition of buildings I thought was interesting
The Louisville Slugger museum. I didn't have time to go ionside, but next visit I will.

Stacy and Ryan

2008-10-02T09:59:00.007-06:00

Most of my clients come to me by referral from previous clients, coordinators, venues etc. Stacy and Ryan was by pure chance! I met them while I was visiting Villa Parker for the first time and they just happened to be there looking for a site for their wedding. I'm glad we "bumped" into each other because just from the time we have spent together so far, I know their wedding is going to result in some wonderful images. What a great couple! Their engagement session was so enjoyable. Here are a few of the images.

Arie and Stephen

2008-09-29T21:56:00.010-06:00

I had the opportunity to photograph a beautiful wedding at the Chateau d'Artigny in Montbazon, France. I was really excited to photograph this one, not only because it was in France, but it gave me a chance to hang out once again with Arie's family. I had the pleasure of photographing her twin sister Nina's wedding two years ago, and it was one of those great weddings that you'll always remember. When I received the call from Nina asking me if I'd be interested in photographing her sister's wedding, I said, "are you kidding me?!" Another wonderful aspect of the wedding was that it was the week of my 15th wedding anniversary. Pat and I spent our honeymoon in Paris, and it has become our favorite city after Denver. So to be able to travel to France for our anniversary was a special treat.

Arie and Stephen have wonderful families and a great group of friends, over 90 of whom flew over to celebrate their wedding! The Chateau was first class, the food and wine were outstanding, and the party lasted literally all night!

Here are a few of the pictures:

The Chateau
The night before the wedding, everyone gathered at the Domaine de La Tortinere for food, wine, and spirits. Here's Arie and Stephen outside as the evening was getting started.
And later in the evening
A quick portrait after she put her gown on
On her way to See Stephen for the first time
Signing the Ketubah
The ceremony
It rained the day before the wedding, but Saturday's weather was perfect.
A sign of the fireworks soon to come!
Time for one of my favorite moments during a Jewish wedding - The Hora!
And the dancing went on all night! I stopped photographing at 4:30 am, and they were still going strong!
Arie's twin sister Nina and her husband Matt.
A big thank you to Arie and Stephen for having a great wedding and giving me the opportunity to photograph it!

Role Reversal

2008-09-21T10:57:00.004-06:00

Friday, I had the opportunity to second shoot with my associate photographer Krista under her Artessa Photography banner. I loved it! After shooting her first wedding with me as my intern a little over a year ago, Krista has started booking her own clients and this was my first opportunity to shoot with her. Krista did a great job and Tiffinie and Glen were a great couple to work with. Here are a few of the images I caputred from the event.

A few from Paris

2008-09-18T15:48:00.008-06:00

We're back from the fabulous wedding in Montbazon, France. I'll post pictures from Arie and Stephen's wedding sometime this coming weekend. For now, I wanted to post a few images I took while we were hanging out in Paris. We've been fortunate to have visited the City of Lights a number of times starting with our honeymoon there 15 years ago. We've done all the touristy things, so now we just kind of treat it like our home away from home. I took over 2300 images during the two day wedding celebration, but only 100 walking around Paris. He are a few.

On the RER from the airport to the hotel
A couple from a Metro station
One of the vendors along the Seine
On of our favorite hangouts, the Latin Quarter
Our favorite snack, the crepe
Love the escargot and wine at the outdoor cafes
There seemed to be more bikes on the road than ever. Gas is not cheap over there!
There were a bunch of self service bike rental stations
A couple of views of the pyramids at The Louvre
rue de Rivoli outside The Louvre
Posters
One of the many souvenir stores
Notre Dame. Taken with an ancient Canon SD110
The Seine at night
Arie and Stephen outside the Chateau d-Artigny. Check the blog later this weekend for more from the wedding.

Cabrina and Ben

2008-09-09T23:19:00.011-06:00

September is my month for destination weddings this year. It all kicked off this past Sunday with a beautiful wedding in the Philadelphia area. I had the pleasure of photographing Cabrina and Ben's wedding at the Manor House in Horsham, Pennsylvania. The day started with a great breakfast served by Cabrina's parents Michael and Phyllis. After hair and makeup, it was off to the Manor House.

Another great part of the wedding was getting a chance to work with Paul Roebuck. Paul had logged in to one of the Pictage "Ask and Learn" online sessions for photographers when I was the featured photographer. Our conversations extended beyond the session, and I told him about my upcoming wedding in Philly and would love to have him join me. I'll look forward to opportunity to work with him again!

After a torrential downpour most of Saturday, Sunday was a beautiful day with not a cloud in the sky. A perfect day for the perfect wedding! Here are a few of the images.

Cabrina and her mom, Phyllis sharing a moment before the ceremony.
And then with her dad Michael before the walk down the aisle
Cabrina designed the many detail for the day including the rose petal holders
Cabrina and Ben
While I was with Cabrina, Paul took care of the guys Paul caught this shot of them jumping for joy
Michael and Phyllis, Cabrina's parents
Ted and Patty, Ben's parents
My best friend Louis and his wife Denise. I was giving them a hard time!
The first dance
The party has started!
The final dance,
And their exit.
Thank you for a great wedding!

Now it's off to Montbazon, France to photograph a wedding this coming Saturday here:

Lauren and Laryen

2008-09-04T20:02:00.008-06:00

Lauren called me about a year ago and told me that I was going to be shooting her wedding. She made her decision before she made her phone call. I wanted to know one piece of information, what was the wedding date? When she told me it was August 30th, I told her that it was meant to be, because just a couple of days earlier I received a call from the bride who had already booked that date telling me that her wedding would be postponed. I'm glad it worked out the way it did! Lauren and Laryen have been a great couple to get to know, and her wedding at the Manor House was a blast! Here are a few images from the wedding.
Great shoes!
A Big Mac for the groom's cake

Nicholle and Jerad

2008-09-04T18:54:00.005-06:00

I had the pleasure of photographing Nicholle and Jerad's wedding at the beautiful Sanctuary. Kelsey, KJ, and David did their usually superb job in making sure everything went off with out a hitch.

A toast before the ceremony.
Nicholle with her sisters Brooke and Julie.
Very cool seating assignments with the golf balls.
Brightly colored shoes always catch my eye.
Here comes the bride through the two arches.
Work it Nicholle!
I love photographing in the Grotto.
A very cool grooms cake
Their signature martini.
Rick, who is Nicolle's dad, sang during the ceremony, and then did a great version Moondance during the reception

DNC Week in Denver

2008-09-01T15:26:00.011-06:00

What a week in Denver! Everyone has read about it in the newspapers, saw it on TV, and experienced it first hand if you lived here in Denver. I had the pleasure of attending one of the kick-off parties, being an audience member on TVONE's DNC After-Party Show, hanging out at Dazzle Jazz Club for a benefit concert, strolling the 16th Street Mall, and being one of the 80,000+ people that attended finale at Mile High Stadium.

Sunday night at the Fillmore with Donald Harrison, The Meters, Irma Thomas, Marcia Ball, Randy Newman, James Carville, Donna Brazile, The Wild Tchoupitoulas, Allen Toussaint, Tab Benoit, Marva Wright, Terence Blanchard, and the cast from the soon to be on Broadway, Ray, among others.

The next day I hung out Dazzle Jazz Club where David Amram and Richie Cole kicked thing off.

On Wednesday I took a stroll down the 16th Street Mall to see what it was like in the thick of things.
The MSNBC set
The police presence was very evident
On Wednesday evening, we watched Joe Biden's speech on the DNC After Party Show set hosted by Sheryl Underwood, Dr Michael Eric Dyson, Jacque Reid, and Dr Marcia Dyson. I couldn't photograph during the live show, so I was unable to get pictures of Tatiana Ali and John Legend who were guests.
And on Thursday, we were at Mile High to witness history.
I was only able to bring into the stadium a 5 years old 3 megapixel point and shoot. I still managed to get a pretty decent picture during the speech.

Rachael and Brett

2008-08-24T12:34:00.004-06:00

I really enjoyed photographing Rachael and Brett for their engagement session. Rachael has a beautiful smile that will light up any room. I'm really looking forward to their wedding day and the pictures that will result. Rachael and Brett were referred to me by one of my brides from B.D., or before digital. That was seven years ago! Another big thank you to Jane Knauf of the Magnolia Hotel for recommending me also. Jane is a big reason why I enjoy working at the Magnolia.

We did the session at Cheeseman Park when the light was just right. Here are a few images from the session.

Photographers as photographees

2008-08-22T16:05:00.005-06:00

So, how do we as photographers handle ourselves on the other side of the camera? My good friends and fabulous photographers CR and Tiffany Brinton (Brinton Studios) held up their end very well! It doesn't hurt if you have model good looks either! It's always an honor to be selected by another photographer as their photographer of choice. We traveled around to a few locations in the metro area and here's a sampling.

Fabulous light just as the sun was setting
A take on film noir
Thanks Tiffany and CR, I had a blast!

A special thanks to Neil Van Niekirk for educating me on proper on camera flash technique at his awesome seminar last week. It worked to perfection!

Mary, TJ, Peyden, and Caitlyn

2008-08-22T15:44:00.005-06:00

I photographed Mary and TJ's wedding acouple of years ago. Since then, they've had two beautiful children, and TJ is fast becoming an accomplished portrait photographer. Recently, they asked me to take a few family pictures.

First, I'll start with a few of my favorites from their wedding.
If you have ever been in The Bridal Collection in Marina Square, which is owned by Mary's mother Gaylynn, you've seen a variation of this portrait of Mary on the wall.
I still use this image to close out my portfolio slideshow
From then to now. TJ, Peyden, Caitlyn, and Mary

Sarah and Charles

2008-08-17T16:11:00.006-06:00

Sarah and Charles' beautiful wedding was at the Botanic Gardens with the reception at the Magnolia Ballroom. After knowing her for several years, I finally got the chance to work with Char Hein, who did an outstanding job as wedding coordinator keeping everything running smoothly and on time despite the very warm temperature. It was an added treat to have R.J Kern second shoot this one with me. You can view additional images on his blog.

I'm always fascinated by how many people it takes to get the bride in her gown!
How do we tie this?
While I was shooting from one direction, R.J. caught this very nice portrait of Sarah
I took this one in the hallway in the basement of the Botanic Gardens.
One of my favorite moments from the day. Mom's reaction to Sarah and her dad seeing each other.
It was hot! Sarah and Charles provides plenty of cold water and umbrellas to fight the heat
Best part of the ceremony!
The gents
The ladies
Charles outside of Harry's Bar.
Very cool green lighting for the reception. Jane Knauf and the crew at the Magnolia did their usual outstanding job.
Check out the reaction of Sarah's mom as Charles picked up and spun Sarah around for the finale of their first dance.
Soul School tore it up!
We took a few minutes at the end of the evening to walk down the alley adjacent to the Magnolia for a few pictures.
A final spin in the middle of 17th Street!
Have fun in Fiji!

Meg, Michelangelo, and James

2008-08-17T14:58:00.005-06:00

I had the pleasure of photographing Meg and Michelangelo's wedding in July of 2006. It was held at the El Monte Sagrado resort in Taos, New Mexico. If you have visited my website over the past couple of years, you may recognize some of the images from their wedding that have been featured in my galleries. We never got around to doing their engagement session before the wedding and I told them whenever they wanted to do it I'd be ready. Well, I got the call from them a few weeks ago and we finally got it scheduled. There's been an addition with the birth of their son James. After looking back on a couple from their wedding, I've posted a few from the session at Washington Park.

Meg on her wedding day
It started raining about 30 minutes before the ceremony and after waiting an additional 45 minutes, the decision was made to go ahead with the ceremony outside. I loved it!
One of my favorite images, their first dance.
Fast forward two years. Meg and Michelangelo.
Meg with James
I love this one of James and Michelangelo
Check out the expression on James' face!
I hope this isn't how he really feels about me!
Best wishes to you all as you enter a new chapter in your lives in New Mexico!

Wendy and Ben

2008-08-08T19:38:00.010-06:00

I had the pleasure of photographing Wendy and Ben's wedding at the Ritz-Carlton in Bachelor's Gulch. There were only 30 or so guests, who all flew in from different parts of the country. Wendy was a beautiful bride! The wedding was wonderful and the Ritz staff did their usual impeccable job.

A quick portrait of Wendy on the balcony before the ceremony.
Here's Ben, who didn't want formal pictures of himself. I didn't listen to him!
I liked this photo of Wendy and her parents so much, that I put it on my website the day after the wedding.
I love this picture of Wendy that Krista caught.
She took this one behind the drapes

A nice moment during the ceremony
My tip of the hat to David Beckstead.
Krista has become the queen of using flare creatively!
My chance to try a little sun flare
One of my favorites
Go Ritz-Carlton!

Ben's parents.

Closing out the evening and a great day under the light of the full moon.

Meredith and Brian

2008-07-25T15:51:00.014-06:00

It seems like the second week in July each year I'm photographing a wedding at Beano's Cabin! This year, I had the honor of photographing Meredith and Brian's. I've been hanging out with them quite a bit the last few months. From their engagement session, to their engagement brunch at the Pinnacle Club, Brian being a groomsman at Tina and Brett's wedding, and finally their wedding at Beano's!

It was a great wedding! Kudos to Faye Gardenswartz as the wedding coordinator and Laura Ryan of the Beaver Creek Group for keeping everything on track. Here are some images starting with a couple from the rehearsal dinner at Toscanini.

I learned that Meredith's family were my homies from Plainfield, NJ! We reminisced about Brook's Record Shop, Texas Wieners, and other landmarks from back in the day.
The beautiful setting at Beano's
Meredith looking fabulous!
Brian seeing her for the first time.
A few tears were shed during the Ketubah signing
Krista took this very cool Avedonish portrait of Meredith and Brian
Krista captured this great sun flare image during the ceremony A very spirited first dance
When the band kicks in with the "Hava Nagilia", I know it's time for the Hora. One of my favorite times at a wedding!
Jakarta threw down as usual!
Krista caught Brian's mom and dad cutting some serious rug
Meredith and her dad
Brian and his mom
Some serious partying took place!
A surprise mosh pit ride for Brian

Kelly and Ben

2008-07-17T20:52:00.008-06:00

I usually photograph a few weddings each year where I do not meet the bride and groom until the day of the event. Such was the case with Kelly and Ben from Santa Monica. What a great couple! Mary Litzsinger and Karey Williams of VP Events did a superb job of coordinating the wedding. Their wedding was to be on the wedding deck of Aspen Mountain, but a thunderstorm forced it inside the Sundeck restaurant. Stefanie Cove of the Little Nell smoothly handled the transition. In fact, it was the first time a ceremony was being held inside the Sundeck! Here are a few images from the day.

A little prep time at the Gant The ride up Aspen Mountain with her mom Mary.
The bling!
The shoes!
This one's for Stephanie! Don't worry, there are more:-)!
Ben, as he sees Kelly for the first time.
Kelly beaming back as she walks up the aisle with her dad
Ben's sister sang during the ceremony accompanied by Bobby Yang on violin
The weather cleared in time for some pictures outside.

Inside the Aspen Club
Here's everyone that attended.
A kiss at sunset
This is probably one of my favorite first dance pictures!
A spin with her dad
Nothing like a little dancing on the bar!
Ben is from Australia, and quite a few members of his family traveled from "down under". Here are the guys paying homage to "Men at Work".
I have no idea what they're doing here!
Nor was I familiar with this move:-)!
But I give here credit for doing it twice!
Bobby Yang and his band and DJ were fantastic! The closed out with Led Zepplin's "Kashmir"
It was a great party!
A goodnight toast.

Jennifer and Ryan

2008-07-16T08:23:00.007-06:00

I had the pleasure of photographing Jennifer and Ryan's engagement session at Castlewood Canyon, a place very special to them. Thankfully, the approaching storm took a right hand turn and missed us!
Here are a few images from the fun session.

The Ritz-Carlton presents "Down the Aisle"

2008-07-10T17:23:00.007-06:00

I had the opportunity to participate in the Ritz-Carlton's "Down the Aisle" This was the second time this event was produced, the first being at the Ritz-Carlton in Orlando, Florida last year. It was an evening of fashion, style, and inspiration for future brides. Down the Aisle featured Austin Scarlett, Creative Director of Kenneth Pool and designer from BRAVO'S Project Runway's first season. The event was produced by Lisa Konecny of e-events and Kristy Chenell, Director of Catering Sales for the Ritz. I met Liz just a week ago during a trip to Orlando, so I was really looking forward to last night's event.

The wedding gowns designed by Austin for Kenneth Pool were spectacular, as was the food and beverage provided by the Ritz. Plus, I had a chance to hang out with some of the finest wedding vendors in Denver!

Believe it or not, this was the first time I have ever participated in a bridal show of any kind! Here's a picture of my table. If you stopped by last night, thank you!
The models awaiting their turn "down the aisle"
The signature champagne cocktail
From the model's left, Kristy Chenell, Austin Scarlett, and Lisa Konecny
Each model did a little "vogueing" before stepping on the runway.
I can't be satisfied with only doing straight shots of the models on the runway; Ryan Joseph and Garrett and Joy Nudd were there to do that along with my friend, the awesome Jeffrey Stoner handling the video. Here are a few that I had a bit of fun with.
And finally, a self-portrait.

Lauren and Laryen

2008-07-04T17:59:00.004-06:00

I'll never forget my very first phone call from Lauren. She let me know that I was was her choice to photograph her wedding. After she went on for a minute or so, I asked her a very important question, "What is the date of your wedding?" If she had called two days earlier, I would have had to regretfully tell her I was already booked for her date. But, the original bride for her date canceled/postponed her wedding just a day earlier! So, this one was meant to be!

We had a great time at Washington Park. Here are a few pictures from the session. I'm really looking forward to this wedding!

Shoot with Beckstead - Day Three

2008-06-21T15:14:00.007-06:00

The last day of the Shoot with Beckstead workshop was at nearby Centennial Airport. We had the opportunity to photograph our models with vintage airplanes as our props. David told us to avoid the commonplace, and we sure did out best! Not everything was successful, but some of the things we came up with definitely pushed us all outside our comfort zone. Here are a few of my attempts:

After the shoot, on a day that was very hot and bright, we headed to lunch and then a roundtable discussion back at Suzanne's studio.

Once again, a big thank you to David and his unselfishness in sharing EVERYTHING! As I said in an earlier post, I know everyone came out of this workshop a better and more aware photographer than when the workshop started.

And one more very special thank you to Grant Oakes, who did so much in getting out the word for David's workshop, and his enthusiasm and helpfulness during the 4 days. His plate is very full with things going on in his life right now, so it was especially very well appreciated!

If there is a Shoot with Beckstead scheduled for your area, GO! If not, contact David and get one scheduled for your city. You will not be disappointed!

The Night Shoot

2008-06-20T13:38:00.006-06:00

Day two of Shooting with Beckstead

After an all day critique session with David Beckstead, we all assembled at PF Changs for a well earned dinner and drinks. With the sun having set, we headed out to the streets of Southlands at Smokey Hill and C-470 to do a bit of night shooting and experimentation with video lights and light patterns. Here are some shots I took from the evening.

Shooting with Beckstead

2008-06-19T14:14:00.010-06:00

Wow! The last few days have been a whirlwind of creative activity. Voted one of the 10 Best wedding photographers in the world, David Beckstead just conducted his second Shoot with Beckstead workshop in Denver this past Sunday thru Wednesday. I was honored to be asked to help out with the hosting of the event with my good friend Suzanne Wille of A Photo Opportunity.

15 photographers attended, traveling from as far away as Calgary. David really pushed us in both creative challenges and energy levels. I'm sure I'm speaking for everyone in saying we all came out of this workshop as better photographers than when we went in.

I hosted the meet n' greet on Sunday evening. Here are a handful of images.

Johnny Tran, second from right, flew in from Calgary.
David Beckstead holding his beautiful daughter Asia, and his wife Kassandra sticking her tongue out at me.
Susan Pacek and the host of the event, Suzanne Wille
My wife Pat in a long conversation with workshop attendee and National Geographic photographer Joanna Pinneo. It had something to do with an Oprah program. Joanna and I have been friends since the old APWPA days.
One more of Asia.
Suzanne, Katie Van Buren, and Angie Wood. How many drinks have you had?!
The first day of the workshop was in Georgetown. Here's some of what I shot from the day.
I've never shot in a cemetery before, let alone with a bride, but here's what I came up with.
These were under an I-70 overpass.
Our last stop was at the gold mine in Idaho Springs.
Day two will be posted tomorrow. It was a night shoot at Southlands.

Shanna and Michael's Wedding

2008-06-10T14:33:00.006-06:00

Back again at my favorite venue! Shanna and Michael were married at the beautiful Sanctuary. It was a beautiful ceremony on a perfect late spring day, even if it was a bit windy. Kelsey, David, KJ, and crew did their usual impeccable job. It was also Krista's first opportunity to shoot with me this season. I sure have missed her! Here are a few images from the day.

Beautiful table setting, with each place card being personally signed by Shanna and Michael. This was a very nice touch!
Shanna having fun in front of the camera
Krista took this gorgeous candid portrait
One of my favorite spots for a portrait. The 1st tee box.
The dudes being cool!
The girls doing a little "vogueing"
I love the ethereal look to this shot during the ceremony
Shanna's dad getting a bit emotional during the ceremony
Michael and Shanna in another favorite spot, the waterfalls.
It was windy, but photographers love what it does to the veil
Beautiful light just before sunset
This shot will definitely make its way to my website portfolio!
The first dance from a cool angle by Krista
Shanna and her dad performed a traditional Indian dance for their father-daughter dance
Then her mom joined in!
Then everybody partied!
It was a beautiful day! Thank you Shanna, Michael and your families!

Tina and Brett's Wedding

2008-06-07T11:19:00.011-06:00

What a wedding! It was a perfect spring day in late May, a beautiful setting, and Tina and Brett were a great couple! It was a bit chilly and rainy for the rehearsal, but we were blessed with perfect weather for the wedding celebration at Brett's family home in Cherry Hills. I welcomed the opportunity to work with some of my favorite vendors: Henry Mares, of Mares Video Productions, Wendy Foster of T'DA Design, Ken Hiatt of Quality Mobile Sound, and the always kick-butt band Jakarta. It was all ably coordinated by Wendy Bass of Let's Plan it.

I was also fortunate to have my friends and wonderful photographers Deb DesMarteau and Julie Kemerling shoot with me. We had a great time documenting Tina and Brett's beautiful wedding celebration. Here are a few of the images from the day.

Here's Tina, just before she sees her husband to be.
Brett, with the smile on his face that never left!
Seeing each other for the first time.
The men gather for the Ketubah signing.
Meredith, whose wedding I will be photographing in July, was in attendance. Her fiance Brian, was one of the groomsmen.
Deb took this great portrait of Tina while she waits to walk down the aisle.
Julie caught her watching the ceremony as it gets underway. Love the image!
I love the look on Tina's dad's face as he waits for her to join him.
A few images of the beautiful backyard setting.
The kids waiting to greet the bride and groom and release the balloons.
The first dance was worthy of a "Dancing with the Stars" performance!
Jakarta tore it up!
And the party was one for the books!
Thank you Tina and Brett. It was a great one!

Crystal, Greg, Cayden, and Chayse,

2008-06-02T15:32:00.006-06:00

One of my great pleasures in this business is watching the couples whose weddings I have photographed start their families. I am always honored when they ask me to photograph them with the new additions to their family. Such is the case with Crystal and Greg. I remember their wedding well. It was a Friday in July 5 years ago! In those days I was shooting by myself, and that was the first of three weddings that weekend. I remember getting home from their wedding about 1:00 am, and needing to be at Lionscrest in Lyons, Colorado at 8:00 am for the next wedding. Keep in mind, Lyon's is an almost two hour drive from my house. Following the wedding in Lyons, I had another booked for that evening in Denver. So, the three weddings were within a 24 hour time frame! Those were the days!!

I hadn't heard from Crystal, but she referred another bride to me recently who filled me in on their growing family. Then Crystal called and we set up a time to take pictures of her, Greg, Cayden, and their newest addition, Chayse. Crystal's mom Marilyn was also on hand for a few images.

First, a look back at one of my favorites from their wedding
Fast forward 5 years!
Three generations of "the girls"

Ellen and Evan

2008-05-28T10:16:00.006-06:00

Saturday I had the opportunity to hang out with two of my favorite people, Joe and Joyce Keum of Studio JK. Not only are they great friends, but two of the photographers who's work I admire the most. Since I didn't have a wedding on Saturday, they invited me to shoot with them at the Garden of the Gods Club. What a spectacular backdrop for a wedding! Ellen and Evan were a great couple and a lot of fun to photograph.

The setting, with Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak in the background
The Bling!
Ellen's reflections in the makeup mirrors
It was a very bright day! We had time before the ceremony to capture some fun images
Ellen just before the ceremony
A very enthusiastic first kiss!
Thank you Joe and Joyce for the invite!