Professional and Student

What a fantastic week! It began with a senior session with Kelly and her Mustang. I love cars and this one is special. We planned and waited to see what hurricane Fay had in store. Though the skies were threatening, we were blessed with no rain. Kelly is a natural and it was so much fun to work with her.

Kelly also brought her two dogs and they were willing to have their photograph made also.

We then drove to Charlotte to visit family and photograph an engagement session with Stephanie and Jared. Lisa and I are somewhat explorers and we found Landsford Canal Park in South Carolina to be the perfect place for some different photography.

The area has much stonework from the 1820's still intact. There is also a nice log cabin and lovely walking trails along the river. It is known world-wide for the largest population of spider lilies along the river shoals.

We returned to the site in the afternoon for another session with another lovely family, Jeanne, Mike, and Cindy. Cindy is one of those special people who shines her light. She has the most radiant smile! It was a joy for me to photograph them. Mike shared with us memories of hiking and camping as a youngster at the park.

Then back to Georgia where I attended a Christians in Photojournalism seminar at the Chick-Fil-A headquarters where the renowned Dave Black spoke. Dave gave a wonderful lecture on lighting photography in unique ways. I am still charged with ideas on how to incorporate some of his methods in our photography...and one of the nicest guys you can meet. On that point, I have had the pleasure to meet some of the world's finest photographers throughout my career. There is one common thread among them that I can see. They are usually humble, curteous, and willing to share their knowledge. I am a sponge for new techniques. I'll practice what I learned and be sure to know that I'll soon share the results here. Thanks Dave, Greg, Stanley, and the many others who made this a great day of learning.

Randy

Exploring the Georgia Coast

Growing up in the Carolinas, I have always enjoyed our beach vacations. From the Outerbanks to Hilton Head Island, we have been bicycling, swimming, and had our share of relaxation. But this year, through a friend's recommendation, we decided to try the Georgia coast.

I love lighthouses and St. Simon's Island was a great start for our trip.

The huge old oaks filled with Spanish moss line the passages along the island.

But it was on Jekyll Island that our daughter, Riley, first met the Atlantic Ocean. Filled with horror tales of how our friends' children cried and screamed on the sandy beach, we set her feet on the shoreline.

And yes, she played and played. Pointing at the seagulls, then at the ocean. She even took a dip in the cool water with mommy. I was able to document it all with my trusty Nikons.

Jekyll Island has a very peaceful driftwood beach via a small hike from the trail well worth the time.

There is something special about the ocean to me. I remember holding my dad's hand wading in the water and asking him how far does the water go? Are there waves miles away from shore? It was these same questions that led me to join the Navy then requesting a sea-going vessel on my "dream sheet". And after over 18 months at sea traveling to the other side of the world, my questions were answered.

Though Riley is only 13 months old, holding her hand I couldn't help thinking about my dad holding mine. And then wondering what questions will she have for me? And will she have the courage to see for herself?

What a great time we had even though it rained a lot. Georgia has a great coastline that we have just begun to explore.

Randy

Congratulations Stephanie and Matt!

Congratulations to Stephanie and Matt who were married on 08/08/08 at 8:00!

The beautiful crape myrtle blossoms lined the walkway to gazebo at Pilgreen's on Lake Dow in McDonough, Georgia. A very lovely ceremony filled with joy and smiles.





When we met with Stephanie and Matt to discuss the wedding plans, she told me about having the guests to blow bubbles as they exited the altar. Wow, I love a creative bride! And I must say this shot turned out exactly the way I envisioned.





Pilgreen's at Lake Dow offers many beautiful areas to photograph and the staff is wonderful to work with. Linden Bartels of Bartels Entertainment kept the music rolling and helped coordinate the night in a smooth fashion.




I don't think I ever saw Stephanie or Matt when they were not smiling. I also learned all about the Canadian wilderness from Matt's dad as the day began in the hair salon. I think pizza was the reason he was there. Stephanie's sister, Amy, who owns Rhapsody Hair salon in Stockbridge, Ga. styled the hair for the wedding party.

Another wonderful wedding filled with good people who let Lisa and me into their lives for a day and for a lifetime through the photography.

As far as Matt and Stephanie, we consider them our friends now.

Randy

Congratulations Lauren and Joseph!

Congratulations to Lauren and Joseph who were married at Eagle's Brooke Country Club in Locust Grove, Georgia on Saturday.







The bridal party adorned well-coordinated summer colors and Lauren's "birdcage veil" just made my day. I have been hoping to photograph this design for several years. Thank you Lauren. I think I can say "portfolio"!






Lisa was amazing capturing some wonderful candid moments. I could hardly sleep that night from looking at her camera's files. (Most of these photos are hers!) I love working with her. I don't have to worry, Lisa will get the shot. This allows me to get my must-have shots with some creativity. It was nice to hear several guests comment on our teamwork.

The staff at the country club provided golf carts which allowed us some special photography opportuntities and we were having great fun until Joseph spotted a storm approaching.

The reception followed the ceremony in the ballroom of the country club where smiles were abound in the celebration.

A very lovely day and a great start to Lauren and Joseph's new life. Thanks for choosing and trusting Randy Wilson Photography in your special day. Best wishes guys!

Randy