Amy Martin Photography

Shannon & Justin: Wedding
Wednesday, August 13, 2008

She has an amazing smile. Big, beautiful and genuine, it lights up her entire face. And an entire room. On the day of her wedding, she left no room in the dark. She was, afterall, marrying the man of her dreams.

With a wonderfully random iPod mix providing the soundtrack for the day, Shannon and her bridesmaids spent the pre-ceremony hours sharing stories, hairspray and bites of cheesecake. As the sounds of Britney Spears and Warren G danced in the air, Shannon prepared amidst a sea of smiles and laughter and love.

Large, dome-shaped chandeliers provided a warm glow to the Hilton Arlington ballroom as the wedding guests gathered to witness Shannon and Justin pledge their lives to each other. On the arm of her father, Shannon began her walk down the aisle and when she spotted Justin waiting for her, she smiled. And it lit up the entire room. She was, afterall, about to marry the man of her dreams.

Shannon and Justin- it was a pleasure and honor to photograph your wedding. You're both awesome individuals and I know your future together will be nothing short of amazing! I wish you all the best!

Putting on the finishing touches:

Shannon and Justin decided to have a First Look, which always makes me happy:

We found this fun wall and Shannon and Justin worked it:

And Shannon worked it solo! :)

Such a fun wedding party!

The ceremony and reception were held at the Hilton Arlington and it made for a very intimate venue:

Married!

Like any good Virginia Tech graduate, I have a special place in my heart for Metallica's Enter Sandman. Also like any good Virginia Tech graduate, I instinctively start jumping up and down when I hear it. I can't help it- it's in my Hokie blood. Luckily, this time, I kept my feet on the ground and was able to take a photo!

Shannon and her dad were so sweet...

...and the guests were FUN!

Last dance of the night:

A special thanks to Susan Solo for shooting with me! I had a great time and I hope we can do it again! :)

posted by Amy @ 8:12 PM, ,

Occupational Hazards
Monday, July 28, 2008

Firemen have fires. Cops have gun-wielding criminals. Nine-to-fivers have carpel tunnel. Every occupation has its hazards and photography is no exception. But here in the south, photographers have a couple of extra things to look out for.

Like twelve foot alligators:

Fortunately, Ruth and I were out of harm's way when this guy came trotting along the golf course. Due to rain, the ceremony location was changed from the golf course to a covered porch. Whew.

Happy Monday! :)

posted by Amy @ 7:57 PM, ,

Nikki: Bridal
Monday, June 16, 2008

Last week, I made the trip to Asheville to photograph Nikki's bridals. Despite the ninety eight degree temperature, we had a great time wandering the grounds of the Biltmore. If you've never been, the Biltmore is amazing, and we had no shortage of fabulous spots at our disposal. I can't wait to return for the wedding in August!

Nikki will be wearing two dresses during the wedding day and wanted to be photographed in both. So, we decided to start down at the conservatory in dress #1 (the reception dress):

Um, stunning!!!

My favorite images, though, were at the very end of our session. I saw this field and was smitten!

Not my normal editing style, but I kind of like it:

Thanks for a fun time Nikki!

posted by Amy @ 11:53 PM, ,

Terran & Andrew: Wedding
Wednesday, June 11, 2008

They started early and they never left. They were there through it all- through the getting ready, the ceremony, the reception, and everywhere in between. They were everywhere, all day. And by "they," I mean Smile and a Smile's first cousin, Laughter.

If the old adage is true, and laughter really is the best medicine, then Terran and Andrew could easily start their own pharmacy. It's extremely refreshing to see a couple so genuinely happy- with themselves, with life, with each other. It's contagious and just darn fun to be around!

Terran is one of the most organized brides I've ever worked with and she worked hard making sure all the details of the day came together seamlessly. She paid such attention to detail and added tons of personal touches, which resulted in day filled with warmth, joy, love and of course, laughter.

Terran and Andrew- you guys are contagious. It was a joy to work with you and to take part in your amazing day. I wish you lifetimes of love and laughter!

Thanks to my great friend, Mary Beth Tyson, for coming to shoot with me. I'm glad your Florida blood could handle the Baltimore temperatures. ;)

The satisfaction of having the veil in place:

Isn't this smile contagious?

Great groomsman gift alert! Andrew gave his groomsman (and himself!) cufflinks that represented where they went to college. I'm a big fan of cool cufflinks for guys because, seriously, how many flasks and money clips does one guy need? ;)

Terran and Andrew did not see each other before the ceremony, but they allowed for plenty of time afterwards to ensure that we got some great images of the two of them as a newly married couple. I had SO many favorites, but here are a few.

We almost got taken out by a bus trying to get these next shots:

Terran and I were in the same sorority and red and green are our colors. So, naturally, I had to take advantage!

Any bride and groom that make their Grand Entrance to Guns N' Roses are ok in my book! My hubby and I entered to Sweet Child of Mine, Terran and Andrew chose Welcome to the Jungle.

Sweet first dance with lots of laughs:

This was the last dance of the night. I love the look on Terran's face and the crazy groomsmen in the background:

posted by Amy @ 1:59 PM, ,

Any Guesses?
Wednesday, May 28, 2008

I've been out of town for a little bit doing some cool things! Any guesses as to what I'm doing?

Here's a hint:

posted by Amy @ 9:19 PM, ,

Kim & Nick : Wedding
Tuesday, May 13, 2008

The tiny salon on St. Simon’s Island was aflutter as Kim and her bridesmaids arrived for their hair and makeup appointments. The combination of tight quarters, one bride, twelve bridesmaids (yes, twelve), one mother, and two photographers made for the most intimate of getting ready locations. With the exception of repeatedly stepping on each other’s toes, the small space had its perks. It provided the perfect atmosphere for Kim to be surrounded by the most important women in her life as her wedding day began.

Later, as the ceremony time drew close, Kim was again surrounded by her twelve bridesmaids... or rather, her twelve "Somethings Blue." They talked excitedly while they helped Kim with the finishing touches and wondered what Nick's reaction would be at the first sight of his flawless bride. As Kim made the long walk down the aisle, it was evident that Nick was simply in awe. And, as evidenced by the ear to ear smile Kim was wearing as she approached her soon-to-be husband, I have no doubt that she felt the same.

When I shot Kim and Nick's engagement session, we hit it off and I've been so looking forward to their wedding ever since. I knew their wedding at the Jekyll Island Club was going to be amazing and I was not let down! Ashley Lavallee and her assistant with Events by Caroline did a fabulous job making sure the day went seamlessly!

Kim and Nick- I can't thank you enough for being such amazing clients. Thank you for making photography a priority and for allowing me to document your beautiful day. Thank you for never questioning any of my ideas. And thank you for being you!

Thanks also to Ruth Rackley for coming to shoot with me! :)

I LOVED Kim's ring:

Kim's Priscilla of Boston dress was gorgeous:

Kim's bouquet provided by Tracey Inglesby with Freshcuts:

Let's not forget Nick:

It was really, really windy:

Kim is so expressive... which I, of course, love:

Kim and Nick had some fun reception details. Here's a few:

We had a PERFECT sunset despite the clouds we had all day:

A sweet first dance:

They had some awesome fireworks!!! Both literally and figuratively ;)

To see more of Kim and Nick's awesome wedding, CLICK HERE!

posted by Amy @ 3:08 PM, ,

Melissa & Danny: Wedding
Tuesday, May 06, 2008

The hotel room, with its panoramic view, did little to shield us from the reality of a less than perfect forecast. As raindrops adhered to the large hotel room windows, Melissa sat on the couch surrounded by her close friends and bridesmaids. I didn't think I was going to be this nervous, Melissa said as she waited her turn in the makeup chair. Her nerves may have been unexpected but they were no match for her small army of friends- each seemingly armed with a Ph.D. in Massage Therapy. They surrounded Melissa, taking posts at her shoulders, feet and hands in hopes of easing those pre-wedding nerves.

Rain and nerves were both present pre-ceremony, but they were a distant memory by the time the reception rolled around. Perched high within the Charlotte city skyline, Bentley's on 27 provided the perfect setting to celebrate Melissa and Danny and their love.

The toasting portion of the reception was a true testament of the love Melissa and Danny have for each other, as well as the love they are surrounded by. Friends, sisters, brothers and parents lined up to toast (and roast!) the new husband and wife in an entertaining display of wit, humor, sentiment and adoration. During his toast to the couple, Melissa's Dad spoke proudly of his daughter and the man she chose to spend her life with. When Melissa has a friend, she has a friend for life, her dad beamed. I have no doubt that Melissa has found her forever friend- and love- in Danny.

Melissa and Danny- Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your beautiful day! I hope your (three week!!!) Hawaiian vacation was simply amazing!

Thanks to my good friend Ruth Rackley for making the drive to Charlotte to help me! :)

Here are some of my favorites from the day:

The beautiful flowers by Carolyn Shepard:

You can always count on mom to get you out of any situation ;)

To see more of Melissa and Danny's wedding day, CLICK HERE!

posted by Amy @ 8:29 AM, ,

Have a little fun!
Monday, April 28, 2008

I always try to remain professional and composed during my events, but every now and then my inner child gets the best of me.

This past weekend, I was in Baltimore for Terran and Andrew's awesome wedding. Because they were using the mother of all sparklers for their grand exit, I couldn't help having a little fun.

Evidence that I am, indeed, a fun photographer and don't take myself too seriously:

A special thanks to Mary Beth Tyson for those killer images. ;)

Happy Monday! :)

posted by Amy @ 11:02 AM, ,

Melissa & Danny: Engagement
Wednesday, April 23, 2008

You are what you wear. If ever this statement applies, it's to Melissa and Danny.

Melissa and Danny are casual, comfortable and laid-back, both individually and as a couple. So, it was only fitting when they met me for their session wearing fashion's definition of casual, comfortable and laid-back: jeans and flip-flops. :)

Quite some time had passed since I first met with Melissa and Danny, so we had a great time reconnecting, laughing, and chatting about their wedding day. Due to some scheduling conflicts, uncooperative weather, and a car accident, Melissa and Danny's engagement session was actually only a few days before their wedding. It was great practice because when Saturday rolled around, they were pros in front of the camera! ;)

Here are some favorites:

Melissa and Danny wanted to include their (big) baby in a couple of shots. ;)

posted by Amy @ 10:52 PM, ,

Back from the Dominican Republic!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008

I'm beginning to think it's me.

I've been traveling quite a bit lately and while I'd love to say that my travels have been smooth sailing, to do so would be a lie. I anticipate and accept that there are some things that can go awry and really mess with one's travel equilibrium. Things like getting put in a window seat when you have a slight case of claustrophobia. Things like your room key not working and having to go all the way back to the front desk to get a new key. Things like your room's electricity not working once you actually get a working key. Yes, all of the above happened on my most recent trip to the Dominican Republic and while not ideal, they didn't ruin my day.

However, not having my luggage for the second time in a month tends to bring out the Debbie Downer in me. After a flight, the first thing I want to see is my perpetually overweight-yes, I always seem to pack ten pairs of shoes I never wear- bright orange suitcase come around the baggage carousel. But, as Mick Jagger said so eloquently, you can't always get what you want.

Luckily, my awesome friend Mary Beth Tyson was with me and let me have dibs on pretty much anything in her suitcase. Even more luckily, she packed an extra bathing suit, so I didn't have to succumb to the $100 seashell and sequin adorned thong bikinis which were readily available in the hotel gift shop. ;)

In light of all the mishaps in getting to my most recent destination, the rest of the week was fabulous. Mary Beth and I photographed a great wedding and spent the rest of our time soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach. All in all, I really can't complain! Except to Delta. ;)

Because a post isn't a post without pictures, here's a quick shot I took with my iPhone on the way to DR:

And one Mary Beth took on the way home:

More "real" photos coming soon!

posted by Amy @ 10:16 PM, ,

Nikki & Keith: Engagement
Monday, April 14, 2008

The local forecast threatened rain and cold weather. Not exactly a perfect scenario for a springtime engagement session.

Instead of fretting about the gloomy forecast or attempting to reschedule our session, Nikki chose the when-life-hands-you-lemons-make-lemonade approach. I have a really cute raincoat I've been wanting to wear! If I needed further proof that we would get along fabulously, that was it!

As I made my way to Raleigh for Nikki and Keith's engagement session, dark clouds loomed overhead and there was indeed a cold bite in the air. As we began the session, the sun peeked out from behind the clouds, as if to remind us of its presence. The rain decided to hold off and we were able to spend the late afternoon walking the grounds of the North Carolina Museum of Art unaffected by Mother Nature's elements. As we meandered through fields and pathways, Nikki and Keith walked hand in hand, occasionally snuggling up to one another to provide some warmth against the chill in the air.

In addition to being business owners, Nikki and Keith flip houses, so as we walked, they told me a bit about a couple of their recent joint ventures. While I'm sure house flipping is exciting, I'm positive their marriage will be their most exciting joint venture to date. And I'm quite honored that they chose me to document the start of it. :)

Nikki and Keith- it was a pleasure hanging out with you and exploring a little bit of Raleigh. I can't wait for your wedding! See you in August! :)

CLICK HERE for a slideshow!

posted by Amy @ 4:23 PM, ,

Carrie & Ed: Just Because
Thursday, March 27, 2008

Sometimes things don't go as planned... and it works out beautifully.

We had originally planned to start Carrie and Ed's session at one end of the Las Vegas strip and work our way down, stopping at various locations along the way. When I arrived at our pre-selected meeting point, I immediately knew we should go elsewhere. The combination of harsh sunlight, noisy rush hour traffic and thousands of other photographers roaming the streets was not inspiring, to say the least.

When Carrie and Ed showed up, they were willing to relocate to another part of town and I couldn't have been more pleased with their flexibility. So, we packed up, headed away from the strip and had a great time exploring the streets of downtown Las Vegas together. And- in my opinion- those streets were the perfect setting for such a fun, vibrant couple. As I said, it worked out beautifully.

Carrie and Ed- I had a wonderful time getting to know you and your city... I hope I did it justice! Good luck on your move and I wish you all the best!

Before we packed our bags, we caught this cool shot of Carrie:

Viva Las Vegas!

posted by Amy @ 4:22 PM, ,

Hi, I'm Amy... I swear I'm still alive.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Hi friends!

First and foremost, I want to thank all of you that continually check this blog, even through my (ahem, extended) absences. I apologize for being a tad MIA on the blog lately, but I've been working hard behind the scenes on some cool new things. Hopefully, I'll be able to share them with you soon!

I finally made it to Las Vegas for the Superbowl of photography- aka WPPI. After a delayed flight, missed connections, a night spent in Chicago and a sketchy flight the next morning, I'm here! It's going to be a whirlwind of a week, full of inspiration, learning, socializing, and probably a little bit of gambling. I do love some poker! :) I've also got an engagement session scheduled, so there will be lots of fun material for the blog coming up!

I cannot wait to get there and see all my photographer friends in one place and to make new photographer friends! If you're in Vegas and see me roaming around, please say hi!

posted by Amy @ 7:23 PM, ,

Kim & Nick: Engagement
Friday, January 11, 2008

We dated each others' friends in high school. We had secret crushes on each other, but neither of us knew! Isn't that crazy?! Kim recalled how she and Nick knew each other in high school, but spent those years dating other people. High school came and went and it wasn't until later, at a college football game, that they reconnected. Turns out, that's all they needed, as they've been inseparable ever since. While Kim and Nick may not have been a couple from the beginning, love has a way of unweaving a tangled web to put us beside the person we're supposed to be with forever. What started as a secret crush is now a real love, evident for anyone to see.

I was so excited to meet Kim and Nick for their engagement session. They live in Georgia and though we had talked via phone and email, this was our first face to face meeting. We spent an unseasonably warm (but much welcomed!) afternoon in Charlotte, wandering through nearby fields and exploring old buildings. Kim and Nick are both so warm and fun and it was a treat getting to know them and seeing their love first hand! They're planning a fabulous April wedding at the Jekyll Island Club and I can't wait to be a part of it!

Kim and Nick- I hope you enjoy your images and I will see you soon! :)

posted by Amy @ 3:12 PM, ,

Ayden's 1st Birthday
Friday, January 04, 2008

It amazes me how a twenty pound child can turn grown adults- myself included- into babbling, baby-voiced baffoons (say that three times fast!).

My nephew, Ayden, turned one a couple days before Christmas. So, to celebrate his first year of life, everyone got together for a little birthday party. As Ayden was passed around the room like a hot potato, I watched grandmas, grandpas, uncles, aunts, and cousins morph into Elmo impersonators, make-shift airplane simulators, and well, basically the most exciteable and animated versions of themselves. It's fun to see how the little guy melts everyone's hearts and brings out the kid in us all. :)

Happy Birthday, Ayden! I love you!

I didn't take too many photos, but I did get some of Ayden enjoying his cake.

He got a mini cake of his own. He needed a little help at first, but he certainly figured out what to do with it. I'm certainly glad I'm not the one who had to clean him up. ;)

My favorite Ayden face:

A couple of the cousins. Camden:

And McKenna:

"Thanks for coming out. It's been real."

And one more of the birthday boy, as I was telling him bye:

posted by Amy @ 11:31 PM, ,

A Revolution
Thursday, December 20, 2007

A couple of months ago, in October, I had the wonderful opportunity to go to New York City for the Revolution workshop, led by Chris + Lynn, Jason Groupp and TJ Cameron.

Back in June, when I photographed Blake and Diane's wedding with Jason Groupp, we chatted about a potential workshop that he was planning. My interest peaked when Jason told me that his friends (and my personal favorite photographers) Chris + Lynn would be joining in to lead the workshop. I told him right then that if the workshop ever came to fruition, I would be there. I mean, a photography workshop led by some amazing photographers... in the fall... in New York City... it was a no-brainer. So when Revolution was officially announced, I signed up. And I'm SO glad I did.

Revolution was such an amazing experience. My passion for photography was renewed, my creative juices flowed abundantly, I made some awesome new friends, and walked away with some great images. It was a win-win-win-win situation. :)

Here are just a few of my favorite images from the workshop. FYI- I'm posting from a different computer, so if my color looks a bit wonky... well, that's why ;)

I figure I'll address this before it comes up. I DID NOT photoshop these random phrases and words. They were a part of the storefront window.

A totally random moment that I was lucky to catch. :)

posted by Amy @ 7:55 PM, ,

Annie & Matt
Monday, December 10, 2007

To say that Annie and Matt had a backyard wedding with a tented reception would be a gross understatement.

As I pulled into Annie's parent's Bluffton, SC estate and saw the scene before me, I knew this was no ordinary backyard wedding and tented reception. A small army was in place, making sure the major, minor, and miniscule elements of the day flowed together seamlessly. Workers were busy putting finishing touches inside the enormous clear tent that was to serve as the reception site. Caterers were busy preparing the delicious meal and setting up various bars on the grounds. A gospel choir warmed up for the ceremony and a bluegrass band waited in the wings, as they were the musical guests during coctail hour. Across the lawn, another band set up their equipment and practiced some simple choreography while waiting for their turn to entertain during the reception.

The event unfolded flawlessly and I was honored to help the wonderful Leigh Webber capture Annie and Matt's amazing day. Below is just a taste of what I saw.

I know of some people, who occassionally like to judge a wedding by the bride's shoes. As a shoe fanatic, I also like to play this game. When I walked in and saw these lovely ladies, I knew I was in for a treat. :)

Hello, Manolo:

Photo Sharing and Video Hosting at Photobucket

Annie's Lela Rose dress was stunning. It was like a piece of art.

A really touching moment between Annie and her dad just before the ceremony started:

Sharing a laugh with the wedding party:

A gospel choir sang as Annie walked down the aisle. They also escorted everyone to the reception.

The details were impeccable. Everything had a very organic, fall feel.

Like the photo below, Annie and Matt's wedding was southern, classic and timeless. And it was sprinkled with just enough quirkiness and boldness to make a statement. I think this sums up the feel of the day perfectly. :)

posted by Amy @ 11:59 PM, ,

Peyton
Wednesday, November 28, 2007

Leaves and acorns crunched underneath my feet as I walked my family's land. Burnt orange, red and gold leaves fell gently from the enormous trees that cover the farm. The late afternoon sky was cloudless and blue and gave way to the sun which cast a golden hue on everything it touched.

It was the kind of day that just smelled like fall. As if every time I took a breath, autumn itself permeated my nostrils.

I was home for Thanksgiving and had no plans for me and my trusty camera, but the postcard-perfect fall day prompted me to rethink those plans to take advantage of the crisp autumn scenery. The solution: my cousin Peyton.

Peyton's sweet and gentle nature are the benchmarks of her personality. She's quiet and shy (nothing like me when I was that age!) and has such a beautiful spirit... which I was thrilled to capture on such a beautiful day.

Here are a few of my favorites:

I told Peyton she looked gangsta in this photo....

...which resulted in this photo. And I love them both. :)

posted by Amy @ 7:46 PM, ,

Lucy
Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Meet Lucy. Last week, I met up with Lucy and her mom for a fun session. While our original plans were a little sidetracked due to parking issues, we were able to get to the park while there was still a little bit of light left. Here are a few for Lucy's mom while I finish editing the rest. :)

I couldn't resist sharing this one:

Lucy is turning one soon, so a birthday hat was appropriate:

I just love when kids are themselves:

posted by Amy @ 4:49 PM, ,

jennifer & dean
Tuesday, October 30, 2007

Jennifer and Dean were married at the gorgeous La Bastide winery. Here are a few of my favorites. (Sorry for the cop-out intro. I had a whole little diddy written and it was erased in blogger land.)