Gretchen L. Halverson

Amelia turns two

2012-02-10T20:26:00.001-05:00

Fiery little Amelia. She was not at all in the mood to have her photograph taken, so these are more snapshots than anything. But I have a tradition to take my kids' pictures on each of their birthdays so they'll have a record of how they grew over the years. My how she has grown.

Hollywood glamour meets grunge

2011-12-22T07:24:00.002-05:00

Asia & Jeremy

2011-10-20T11:41:00.000-04:00

Many years ago, when I was 18, I moved to Kentucky, and met a wonderful family who became such good friends that they felt like family to me. When I bought my first SLR camera, Asia became one of my most-used subjects for practice.

I've known Asia since she was in kindergarten. Last weekend, she got married, and she asked me to photograph her wedding.

I said "yes".

Asia and Jeremy decided to go with a "first look" session, where they met each other for the first time alone before the wedding.

I believe you should always have a rustic red barn around when you need a charismatic background.

Hugs and kisses to Asia and Jeremy...and a world of congratulations. You make being in love look good ;)

Christine and John

2011-10-11T12:31:00.001-04:00

A little more from Will and Abby

2011-10-04T08:34:00.000-04:00

On the beach with the Albairs

2011-09-11T21:01:00.003-04:00

When you're this beautiful, it's impossible to go wrong :)

Crystal and Jeremy

2011-09-11T12:32:00.000-04:00

I got the opportunity to step in and shoot Jeremy and Crystal's wedding yesterday in Auburn. What a perfect day to get married! In spite of quite a few snags on the wedding day, Crystal was calm and so nice to work with. We wish them the very best in their new life together. Here are just a few moments that I loved from yesterday:

Mandy and Cameron

2011-08-27T17:06:00.001-04:00

Hop on over to Facebook and see a few previews from Cameron and Mandy's wedding today.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.184039641669406.46671.147647561975281&type=1

Turning 80 with love

2011-07-16T15:09:00.007-04:00

Erica and Tony

2011-05-26T14:29:00.017-04:00

What a good looking couple! They made my job so easy. Many thanks to the Heberts and the Albair families for letting me photograph this beautiful wedding. As I told Erica the day before - the best light to photograph is on a rainy day. They're so beautiful I'm actually getting teary-eyed editing these proofs. Is it tacky to say that??

See for yourself; and then hope for rain on your wedding day. :)

Tori and Eric

2010-10-05T22:52:00.007-04:00

Tori and Eric were so gracious to let me spend the day with them and photograph their gorgeous wedding. Tori was so put together before the ceremony; Kathleen and I were both so amazed at her calm nerves.

This was the first time I've had the privilege to do a First Look, and I have to say that I was pretty excited about it. There will be more photos to come in the next few days, but here are some of my favorites from the day:

Tori waits expectantly for her first glimpse of Eric. I loved this moment, and she could not have been more beautiful!

I was in awe all day at how lovingly Eric would look at Tori. I do love photographing a man besotted!

Thanks so much Tori and Eric. I'll be posting more soon.

For Sarah...

2010-09-21T20:57:00.006-04:00

Andrea and Josh - better late than never...

2010-09-20T23:12:00.006-04:00

I realized yesterday that I never posted any photos from Josh and Andrea's wedding more than a month ago... I posted previews on Facebook, but neglected to upload some here.

So! Here are a few from their hugely photogenic wedding. :)

Sarah and Aubrey

2010-09-18T18:50:00.008-04:00

Sarah and Aubrey were married today at the coast under a glorious blue sky. They were surrounded by close friends and family in an intimate ceremony. Here are just a few of my favorite moments so far:

Sarah and her father walk together to the limo.

Sarah and Aubrey exchange rings.

After the ceremony, everyone spontaneously stepped back and let Aubrey have a few moments with his new wife. They talked and smiled, laughed and wiped tears away. I was so glad to have my long lens handy so I could capture their joy without interfering.

Sarah's "something blue", a gorgeous brooch, kept catching my eye as it sparkled in the sunlight.

Leslie and Jeremy

2010-06-27T21:10:00.008-04:00

Crystal and Jimmy - more photos

2010-06-05T21:48:00.001-04:00

Follow this link to view updated photos of Crystal and Jimmy's wedding - they're priceless!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sanford-ME/First-Frame-Studio/124763067071

Kristine and Dan

2010-05-16T13:28:00.010-04:00

Kathleen and I were honored last night to be able to photograph Dan and Kristine's wedding in Portland. What a feast for the eyes we had! Such a deeply symbolic and meaningful ceremony, followed by a beautiful reception. Here are just a few moments that I loved capturing:

Crystal and Jimmy

2010-05-03T21:01:00.011-04:00

Wendy and Dave

2009-12-11T21:29:00.007-05:00

My friend Wendy probably thinks that she'll never see her wedding photos - I've been very bad and haven't posted any previews for her yet. So here they are, from her fabulous wedding!:

There are so many more! Just wanted to get these online for you tonight :)

The Timberlakes

2009-11-06T15:20:00.006-05:00

I have been wanting to do a photo shoot of the Timberlake family for about 8 years now, and finally got the chance this past weekend. Here are a few of my favorites:

Deanna and Matt

2009-10-25T09:04:00.007-04:00

I looked out the window yesterday morning at all the rain, and said to myself, "That's okay, we're still going to get great pictures at Matt and Deanna's wedding today." And I was right. They were such a cute couple, and surrounded by wonderful friends and family. I had a great time watching the day unfold. And I didn't even mind the rain. We found a gazebo and got some great shots anyway.

Tori and Eric

2009-10-19T18:57:00.009-04:00

It was one of those weekends where, despite my efforts, I kept making stupid blunders. But Tori and Eric were kind and patient with me, and FINALLY, we were able to get out Sunday morning in the Old Port and have some fun getting engagement photos. Here are some of my favorites:

Geoff and Ana

2009-09-19T21:33:00.006-04:00

Geoff and Ana were married last Saturday among friends and family. They had a beautifully romantic ceremony, and welcomed guests afterward at a reception overlooking Kennebunkport.

Here are just a few photos from their wedding:

Dan and Emily

2009-09-01T09:51:00.011-04:00

Despite the miserable weather, which is by far, the worst I've ever seen on a wedding day - and despite the unhelpful staff of the Chebeague Transportation Company, we made it to the Chebeague Island Inn for Dan and Emily's wedding celebration.

Their wedding day was very classy yet down-to-earth, with many unique and personal touches.

Thank you, Emily and Dan, for letting us be a part of your very special day.

And a huge thank you goes to the fantastic staff at the Inn for being extraordinarily helpful in getting Kathleen and I to the island. Calling you guys was the best thing I did that day. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Good things come in threes

2009-08-23T22:47:00.003-04:00

Many of my clients already know that I'm now expecting my third child, and though it's a surprise (read "shock") to be blessed with #3, we just decided to laugh and consider it a good thing.

The reason I'm posting this on my blog is to let everyone know I'm again going on maternity leave at the end of the year, and will not be accepting wedding clients from mid-November through the end of March. Trust me, you do not want me waddling around at your wedding trying to take photos!

I may take portrait clients during this time, but it will be on a case-by-case basis, so please feel free to contact me to discuss any details.

This also gives me sufficient time to completely finish the editing process for every one of my wonderful brides and grooms before the end of the year.

Since the baby is due in mid-Feburary, I'll be accepting any print and album orders up until January 15, but cannot guarantee I'll be working on any orders until after March 15.

So! Send happy thoughts and reassurance to the soon-to-be Mother Of 3 Kids Under 4. It's going to be a wild ride.

Amy and Bill

2009-08-23T22:22:00.011-04:00

Amy and Bill allowed me to hang out with them yesterday while they celebrated their wedding day with close friends and family. It was so nice to see them enjoying themselves so thoroughly. Here are a few of my favorites:

Bill had such a natural smile and an infectious laugh! Easy groom to photograph!

Mr. Logan stole the limelight all day... I love this photograph, because it was probably the only time we even heard him whimper, and everyone in the shot forgot all about me, and tried to make him smile again.

Cooling off from the hot, hot outside photoshoot...

Amy gets a kiss from a sweet little girl.

"You may kiss the bride!" I love Bill's enthusiasm!

Such a beautiful pair, Amy and Logan. After many attempts, he finally decided to look at me.

During the toast, Bill's father suggested that all the ladies get up first to go to the buffet so that they could serve the menfolk. That went over really well.

I love weddings for all the little romantic moments I get to see. I never got to meet this couple, but I just love them anyway.

And it was so nice to see Joey and Ashley Brown again, who I haven't seen since I photographed their wedding. They're expecting baby #2, sure to be as handsome as his brother. Ashley, of course, looks fantastic!

Nikki and Steve

2009-08-19T09:13:00.009-04:00

Steve and Nikki were completely adorable, and we had so much fun taking photos of their wedding day in Portland on Saturday. We had no shortage of great moments to photograph... in fact, I'm having a hard time narrowing down the photos to post on this blog!

I feel obligated to say, too, that the meal at the Italian Heritage Center was beyond fabulous. If I hadn't been working, I could have easily eaten myself sick! I would highly recommend the venue.

Colin and Meredith

2009-08-02T18:30:00.008-04:00

We had so much fun taking photos with Meredith and Colin last night. They were so easygoing, and humored us as we took some fun shots with them. Great music, great dancing, great people. Here are some scenes from their day.

Wait time on finished photos

2009-07-27T18:42:00.003-04:00

I'm writing this blog to inform all my valued clients, present and future, that the wait time for the complete edited photo set from your wedding is going to be extended. Whereas before I had stated a six to eight week waiting period, I think a more realistic estimate is going to be twelve weeks. Three months may seem like an obscene amount of time, but please remember:

I've recently added a second photographer, which has almost doubled the amount of unedited photos coming in.

I personally edit each and every photo, and this is, of course, an extensive process.

I find it's better to give a realistic timeframe, and have you surprised if the photos arrive a little early, than giving an optimistic deadline, and having to postpone it two or three times.

So, twelve weeks! Maybe a little earlier, but certainly not any later than that.

Jaime and Steven

2009-07-19T09:28:00.008-04:00

After a long and meandering drive through the Maine countryside, we arrived yesterday at Sunday River resort for the wedding of Jaime and Steven. They had a beautiful outdoor ceremony, and a lively reception. Here are a few moments from their day:

Katie and Brian

2009-07-12T08:50:00.008-04:00

Katie and Brian were married yesterday here in Sanford, Maine. They were fun to photograph and very relaxed, which made our job really, really easy!

We also have to give a big thank you to DJ Mike. He was our hero for the day, and made sure the pregnant ladies got something to eat.

Molly and Zack

2009-07-04T20:18:00.003-04:00

Gorgeous Day to get married! We had so much fun with Molly and Zack today. Here are a few previews: more to come...

Trish and Erich

2009-07-04T20:05:00.003-04:00

The rain paused on Friday morning, and the sun came out, smiling on Trish and Erich's wedding ceremony at Boothbay Harbor. Here are a few moments from their day.

Kathleen!

2009-06-19T21:38:00.003-04:00

Ladies and gentlemen, I'd like you all to meet Kathleen. She's the best thing that's happened to First Frame Studio since sliced bread. And believe me - sliced bread does not have a lot of uses in the photography field.

Kathleen is my second shooter/assistant/organizational guru. Having her with me at the last 2 weddings I've photographed has already resulted in some phenomenal shots - some of which would just be impossible to capture with only one photographer.

What does this mean for you? Only good things! Now you'll have wedding photos taken from two vantage points. Formal photos after the ceremony will now be faster and more efficient. You'll have even more great photos with each package you order.

And though it may not mean as much to you, it means a lot to me that I'm going to stop losing paperwork, leaving battery chargers at reception halls, and generally forgetting everything.

Sarah and Derrick (again!)

2009-06-19T20:27:00.006-04:00

Not that Sarah and Derrick got married again, it's just I found more photos I wanted to share.

What a darling couple they are! And I give Sarah a big cheer for letting us pose her in the long grass.Mini cheesecakes!
This is such a special moment that was caught by our new associate photographer. Sarah's father was watching the girls get their group portraits taken. I love the sentimentality of this photo. I can't help but think he's wondering how his baby grew up so fast.
As we were taking formal shots in the field beside the country club, one of the groomsmen nudged me and asked me to take a photo of the best man's leg. As it turns out, he had a caterpillar crawling up his pants leg. This proves that every moment counts. And I appreciate that my families are willing to brave nature for the sake of a few good shots.

Kristin and Justin

2009-06-14T20:57:00.008-04:00

Kristin and Justin were married last Saturday at Spring Meadows Country Club in Gray. The happy couple shared a beautiful day together with their families and friends. As the sun started to set, we ran outside to capture some beautiful shots on the golf course. Have a peek at their lovely ceremony and reception:

Sarah and Derrick

2009-05-30T22:07:00.006-04:00

What a lovely day we had today in Gray, Maine! We were thrilled that the sun decided to shine on the new Mr. and Mrs. Cote's wedding today. In fact, it was so intense, we had to keep hunting for shade for the portraits.

A beautiful ceremony overlooking the golf course highlighted a great ring save by the best man. Sarah and Derrick were so very easy to photograph... they were charming people, and so obviously in love. It made my day.

Most memorable for me, though, would have to be the speech by the best man. I've never heard anything quite like it, and it was clear that every guest at the wedding enjoyed every word. People laughed till they cried.

We here at First Frame Studio wish Sarah and Derrick a lifetime of love and happiness. Here are a few of my favorites so far... it's late though, and I have over 800 photographs to go thru. I'm sure there will be more in short order.

Uncovering gems

2009-04-20T21:30:00.005-04:00

I'm starting the processing of Lindsey and Jordan's wedding photos, and have already stumbled upon some lovely moments:

Here Sarah peeks out from behind the curtain right before the ceremony begins. There was a lot going on, and I love this moment of curiosity. Sarah was a gorgeous little lady - a true beauty.

Lindsey's father was such a proud and loving man. His eyes say so much in this picture. I love this photograph because it transcends time. It's a moment of pure love and joy.

Here Lindsey's girls wait in the back room to walk down the aisle. I enjoy the animation on the girls' faces. It's such a classic wedding moment!

I'm really enjoying this wedding, and am sure I'll uncover many more beautiful photos. I shot almost 700 pictures that night, so I have a lot of work ahead of me.

I'm excited to say that when I do finish, this will be the first event to go live at our new ordering/viewing website! www.firstframestudio.photoreflect.com.

Lindsey and Jordan

2009-04-19T17:25:00.007-04:00

Lindsey and Jordan, who are completely adorable, were married last night in Scarborough. I had so much fun at their wedding reception... you could tell that the guests came to have a good time. See for yourself - you'll probably wish you were there.

If you've tried to contact me...

2009-04-08T09:57:00.002-04:00

There is no good way of saying this, but I'm hoping that it helps. I recently had my website redesigned and had an automatic contact form put on the site.

If there are any folks out there who have contacted me via this form, please know that the application is broken, and I'M NOT GETTING THE EMAILS. I'm trying to have this matter addressed, but it's taking some time.

If you'd like to get in contact with me to talk about your wedding or portrait photography, please email me directly at firstframestudiome@gmail.com. I will answer your email promptly.

Why First Frame Studio?

2009-03-27T15:22:00.002-04:00

Here's a question you may not know the answer to. Why did I name my business First Frame Studio?

It has nothing to do with picture frames. And it's not insinuating that I'm the best photographer out there, or insisting that I be your first choice.

It actually has to do with a pattern I noticed several years ago in my photography. Every time I started a photo shoot, there was always (on my end at least) palpable tension in the air. Excitement, nervousness, anticipation. I had the desire (and still do) to create something outstanding when I pressed the shutter release. Something about that first frame that I fired on my camera had the most obligation laid upon it. I never, never throw away my first shot. It's always something that I see that's special. And many many times, though not always, after the prints are made and I go back and look over a particular collection, the first frame is my favorite.

Even now, after years of photographing weddings and taking portraits, I still get goosebumps when I pick up my camera for the first time that day. It may sound cheesy, but I accept what a weighty responsibility it is to capture a moment for all time.

And that is what I wanted my business name to represent: the emotional investment I have in photographing your life.

Aimee'

2009-01-29T14:52:00.005-05:00

Katie and Christian

2009-01-29T12:56:00.012-05:00

Still living in my pajamas!

2009-01-29T12:40:00.003-05:00

I can't believe how long it's been since I've updated my blog. My fans remind me occasionally that I need to update it (and when I say "fans", I actually mean "fan" - my brother-in-law, who seems to be the only one who reads my blog! *laughing*).

At any rate, I've realized that I still have work from this fall that I haven't posted yet. I think I did good to get everyone's photos to them before I went into labor.

Speaking of which, we did have a beautiful nine pound little girl, and I've never been happier! Especially since she's starting to sleep through the night now... at only 8 weeks. Hurrah!

We named our daughter Elise, and I can't believe how fat and gorgeous she is already. And even better, our son is in love with her too.

I'm starting to get back to work now, so look for new posts soon.

Brian

2008-09-20T13:22:00.004-04:00

Jennifer and Mike

2008-09-09T13:40:00.005-04:00

Mike and Jennifer were married this past Saturday. Despite the sweltering heat, everyone got through the ceremony without fainting. They hosted a memorable reception with some great dancing, as the photographs show:

Lesley and Tyler

2008-09-09T13:11:00.008-04:00

Lesley and Tyler were married August 23 in Brunswick. Here are a few moments from their wedding day:

Esther and Bill

2008-09-08T13:04:00.008-04:00

Finally, I'm able to get some photos online of Bill and Esther's wedding. We had a great day together, and in spite of the rain, we actually squeezed in some rather beautiful portraits outside.

Here are some previews of the day:

More congratulations

2008-08-28T15:35:00.002-04:00

Congratulations are in order for Esther and Bill, and Lesley and Tyler, who were both married in August. Photos will be posted soon! I'm so backed up right now with editing work.

Lana's Bridal Shower

2008-08-28T15:23:00.004-04:00

Just wanted to share a couple photos from a little photo shoot I did a couple weeks ago... this was a bridal shower for the daughter of a good friend of mine... here are a couple of photos of the two of them. So sweet - I had to share.

Brittnee

2008-08-28T14:57:00.006-04:00

Last week I was able to get out and have some fun taking some senior photos. Here are just a few of my favorites from the shoot:

Michael and Candy

2008-07-29T16:08:00.007-04:00

I never imagined a wedding in a cemetary could be so beautiful. Michael and Candy, who married Saturday in Saco, proved me wrong.

Candy shares a moment with her son, Gavin, before the ceremony starts.

The lighting inside the chapel was beautiful. This picture, taken without any flash lighting, shows how romantic the ceremony was.

This is one of my all-time favorite candid shots. I love how nobody coming out of the church seems to notice them.

Candy's sister, who performed the ceremony, threatened to cry before it was over, but she valiantly made it through without tears.

It was the perfect time of evening to catch some beautiful scenery shots. This was one of my favorites.

scheduling updates

2008-07-22T13:36:00.003-04:00

My schedule for the rest of the 2008 wedding season is now completely full. I would love to squeeze in more weddings for those who need a photographer, but I'm only human. I have 7 weddings coming up in the next 10 weeks, so it's going to be very busy for me.

If you're interested in using First Frame Studio for your 2009 wedding, I'll resume shooting weddings in February, and my calendar is pretty open so far for the 2009 year. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me while I'm on maternity leave - I'll be more than happy to help you out.

And in a bit of personal news, we are having a girl - which is a very exciting thing for us!

Cory and Heather

2008-07-21T11:26:00.007-04:00

Heather and Cory were married Saturday at the Clay Hill Farm just south of Ogunquit, ME. It was hot hot hot!, but at least it didn't rain on their outdoor ceremony.

The beautiful flower arrangements were crafted by Kate Henderson of Katherine's Garden in York.

As it turns out, hand positioning is a lot trickier than one would think. At least everyone had a good sense of humor about it.

Cory may have hated dancing, but it looks like he had some fun dancing with his mother.

Many thanks to Joe Lerman of 101.9 and Rob Steele of 97.9 for the entertainment. Hope you guys made it through the pig roast Saturday night without incident. It was fun having lunch with you, even if it wasn't pizza.

Heather, despite your snide remarks about yourself all day, I think you made a strikingly beautiful bride.

Nicole and Jesse

2008-06-10T17:17:00.006-04:00

On June 7, Nicole and Jesse were married in the land of mosquitoes, otherwise known as Chocorua, NH. The couple lives in Massachusetts, but discovered the charming Riverbend Inn as the perfect place to stage their ceremony and reception.

Bug spray abounded, as well as delicious food (and a pretty great drink selection), and a good time was had by all. Even me. I take away from their evening many beautiful photos, and a few bug bites, too. But what I learned that evening was worth it:

Even mosquitoes can't stop true love.

Cassandra and Josh

2008-06-05T10:58:00.007-04:00

Many belated congratulations to Cassandra and Josh, who were married back in April. They had to put up with me during my first trimester, where my energy was at an all time low, and my procrastination was at an all-time high. It's great to have such nice clients who understand.

Here are a few highlights from their lovely wedding:

Greg and Amanda

2008-05-31T20:27:00.006-04:00

Greg and Amanda were married today at the Woodstock Inn in North Woodstock, NH. Although Amanda didn't get her wish for an outdoor wedding, I got my wish for some really great outdoor photos afterward. Poor Greg hates to have his photo taken. Thanks for putting up with me, Greg. And Michael. And Glenn.

Latest News

2008-03-20T22:22:00.002-04:00

It's shaping up to be a busy year for First Frame. Weddings are being booked at a steady but not frantic pace - just the way I like it.

This year, I'll be booking weddings through the middle of October, and will be taking October 12, 2008-April 10, 2009 off for a little thing I like to call "maternity leave". (It's lovely being the owner of your own business and giving yourself a nice 6 month vacation.)

I regret the weddings that I'll miss out on by not being available, but as a poem dear to my heart says:

"the cleaning and sewing can wait till tomorrow,
for babies grow up, as I've learned to my sorrow.
So quiet down cobwebs... dust, go to sleep -
I'm rocking my baby, and babies don't keep."

I'm so grateful to be in this fabulous profession, where I can enjoy my passion of photography while giving my children 100%.

So, thank you to all of my clients, then and now, for choosing First Frame Studio. The little slice of your life that you share with me is so important, and as you start a family full of life and love and hope, know that behind the camera, I'm rooting for you. I'll always believe in love.

Jeff and Khrystyna

2008-02-26T14:06:00.006-05:00

Many congratulations to Jeff and Khrystyna, who were married Saturday in an evening ceremony. What a nice time I had watching the two of them dance, along with their free-spirited guests. It was a truly beautiful evening, as the photos show.

Heather and Chris

2008-02-23T12:21:00.008-05:00

I had a fantastic time last week photographing Heather and Chris' wedding. They were a fun and laidback couple, and very easy to work with, despite the trauma with the flowers. Here are a few highlights from their wedding!

Patti and Ryan

2007-12-28T23:15:00.000-05:00

First of all, many thanks to the kind folks at the Snowvillage Inn for saving me this Saturday! I was foolish to not fill up my gas tank before the trip up to North Conway... and I passed the only gas station, thinking there would be another before I got to empty. Scary! I was riding in on fumes - thank goodness I was early in case I had to walk for gasoline!

But the real story here is Patti and Ryan, who had an intimate ceremony in front of a crackling fire at the Inn. They were an endearing couple, and very fun to photograph. It's too bad Patti couldn't talk Ryan into the snow angel idea. That would have been a great photo!

Kyle and Shaina

2007-12-06T12:13:00.001-05:00

I was honored to take the wedding photos of some good friends last weekend. Shaina and Kyle are such a cute couple. We wish them all the happiness in the world.

Stacey and Sean

2007-09-18T09:23:00.000-04:00

Jenn and Jason

2007-09-18T08:52:00.000-04:00

Belated congratulations to Jenn and Jason who married the Saturday before last in Old Orchard Beach. We had a fun day and took a few minutes to take some pictures at the beach in Wells before it started pouring rain.

most amusing groomsmen award

2007-09-17T00:03:00.000-04:00

... goes to the guys photographed below. Congratulations, gentlemen. Your trophies are in the mail.

Brooke and Tyler

2007-08-19T07:39:00.000-04:00

Despite my vague queasiness, Brooke and Tyler's wedding yesterday was great fun. It was my first time being on a boat out in the ocean, and the rocking did make taking photos a bit challenging at times. Dinner featured filet you could cut with your fork. Yum!
Congratulations to you both, Tyler and Brooke. Thanks for being so much fun to work with.

Priscilla and Andy

2007-08-12T12:21:00.000-04:00

Priscilla and Andy married Saturday afternoon oceanside in Cape Neddick, Maine. The weather could not have been more beautiful - in fact, we had a hard time finding shade to take some portraits! Best wishes to Andy, Priscilla, and their beautiful boys.

Joey and Ashley

2007-08-06T12:40:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Joey and Ashley on their marriage. They wed Saturday evening in a beautiful outdoor ceremony, followed by drinks, dancing and a balloon release in memory of Ashley's mother. What a fun couple to spend the day with!

Finally home

2007-07-18T12:38:00.001-04:00

What a long strange month it's been. I made it in last night around 11:30, and Brighton wandered around as if home was a little familiar, but weird nonetheless. Then he saw his toys, which were obviously sights for his very sore eyes. It was like I had just bought him a room full of new toys!

Still, there are a lot of things to catch up on and orders to fill for my fantastic clients, so the next few days will be busy for me too. August 4 is my next wedding, so I may just be caught up in time to delve right in again. That's the way I like it.

When it rains... it molds.

2007-06-23T21:00:00.000-04:00

It came as a happy chance that I didn't have any weddings scheduled for the month of July. Nate and I recently got the phone call that our house in Ohio that we're trying to sell had some serious issues. Apparently, the roof had started leaking in several places, which caused the ceiling to collapse in the kitchen and bathroom. We took off to Ohio for several weeks to get a grasp on the destruction.

After looking at the wreckage and having a good long cry, we decided to completely gut the kitchen. What we found when we ripped out the walls was NOT pretty. Mold. Termites. Old newspapers? Yep, old newspapers. And a hair curler. How exactly does a hair curler come to be on the inside of a wall?

So, here I sit with bruised and battered knuckles. I'm very tired, but there's something to be said for brutal, sweaty work. It'll be worth it when we're done, and maybe.. just maybe we'll look back on all of this and laugh.

At any rate, I'll be back home on the 17th of July, ready for my next wave of weddings.

Joe and Brooke

2007-06-23T15:36:00.000-04:00

What a fun time I had with Joe and Brooke and their families. Joe and Brooke were a blast, and it didn't hurt that their catered dinner was FANTASTIC! Their baby also has the world's best smile. Take a peek and see if you don't agree.
Congratulations!

Tammy and Eric

2007-06-23T15:10:00.001-04:00

Eric and Tammy's wedding was definitely a family affair. Thanks to all the girls for their patience as I confused their names again and again. It was such a beautiful wedding - I wish you all a happy life together.

Congratulations are in order!

2007-06-09T21:46:00.000-04:00

Many congratulations to Joe and Brooke who got married a week ago Sunday, and Tammy and Eric, who wed this afternoon. Pictures are coming! I'm beginning to catch up...

Amy and Jeremy

2007-06-03T20:30:00.000-04:00

Amy and Jeremy had a beautiful backyard wedding yesterday. It stopped raining just in time for things to dry out for the ceremony. The following is a selection of the day's moments:

Persis and Allan

2007-05-18T22:43:00.000-04:00

What a day I spent with Persis and Allan. I've got over 500 great photos to go through. It was a lovely day with many unique moments. I enjoyed spending the day with such an expressive and laid back family. The African wedding dance was fascinating...

more wedding pictures

2007-05-09T13:35:00.000-04:00

Kim and Scott

2007-05-03T21:57:00.000-04:00

What an absolutely gorgeous day in Rindge, NH. Kim and Scott got married at the Cathedral of Pines, which is a breathtaking yet serene setting overlooking the mountains.

They shared an intimate ceremony with their families, and I actually was able to remember everyones' name. Cheers to me! At any rate, the ceremony and reception were just beautiful... really - one of the prettiest I've ever seen.

Kim and Scott - you were a joy to work with. Thanks for letting me share your day with you.

Amanda and Scott

2007-04-24T22:01:00.000-04:00

Poor Scott. I kept calling him Steve today. I'm so sorry!

Best wishes to Amanda and Scott, who got married overlooking the Casco Bay this afternoon. We traveled afterward to the Portland Head Light and took some photos in the bright afternoon sun. What a great pair these two make. Congratulations!

Melissa

2007-04-23T19:48:00.000-04:00

I discovered a new makeshift studio today and did an impromptu photo shoot. The weather was great, so it was nice to be out and taking pictures again. Here are my favorites from the afternoon:

New events

2007-04-20T20:21:00.000-04:00

My dear husband gave me my anniversary present early, a brand new Dell Inspiron 6400 laptop. I'm so excited to have it! Thanks, honey!

Congratulations to Amanda and Scott on their upcoming wedding! Four days to go, guys - it's going to be a beautiful day overlooking the Casco Bay.

to flash or not to flash?

2007-03-19T15:12:00.000-04:00

Nate and I had a nice evening this weekend at the coffee shop down the street. He brought his guitar for "open mic night" (though the coffee shop didn't have a microphone). As he played, I debated between using my flash or not, and decided to try it both ways.

Without flash:

I like this photograph because it more accurately captures the feel of the room, the lighting, the fact that it was late. Plus, the movement in his hand is captured, showing he is actually playing the guitar. There are also no shadows cast on the wall from any flash. However, it is blurry. Mounting on a tripod would have eliminated most of this shakiness though.

With flash:

This picture is clear, the color seems alive and happy, but it does have a shadow cast on the wall, and the picture shows no motion - he could have just been posing for all we know.

Either way, I like both shots. I just think it's interesting how a blurry picture may end up evoking more feeling than a clear, well-lit picture. However, when it matters, I always take the picture with the flash first before I experiment.

New equipment

2007-03-10T21:15:00.000-05:00

I'm having a riot with my new nikon flash. Bouncing diffused light instead of straight-on flash is a dream come true for me.

Here are a few pictures of something else new...

music to my ears

2007-02-13T21:08:00.000-05:00

New pictures of this weekend at the music festival in Limington. I can't wait to get the rest of my lighting outfit so that situations like this will be better lit. All in all, a great way to spend an evening, though. Brooke was great on the violin, and Kevin's band was so much fun.

cows

2007-02-08T23:01:00.000-05:00

Cows scare me. They always have, and probably always will. Horses scare me too, but somehow, a horse seems more intuitive and perhaps a bit more intelligent than a cow does at any given moment. Sure, a cow and a horse can both trample you to death, but I like to think that the horse will feel badly for it, whereas the cow would barely notice. At any rate, I faced my fears last week and got up close and personal with a few of my newly founded bovine friends. Dare I say... just a bit cute?

My world tour

2007-02-06T08:35:00.000-05:00

I'm finally back from my trip south. Only gone a week, but it felt like a month. I'm glad to be home!

Living in the Sanford area, I often hear how people think this town is so dumpy. Perhaps when compared with Kennebunkport, but I thought I'd share a few pictures of the Ohio Valley area. This first picture is a sampling of the homes and vacant buildings lining the main highway along the Ohio River. This stretch of run down property goes on for about 3 miles. Huntington West Virginia - the city is faced with a tremendous need for revitalization, but no funds to even begin the task. Therefore, much of the older parts of the city have homes that are falling in. Families are living in delapidated buildings with windows broken out, holes in walls where siding has fallen off.This intersection is at the edge of Marshall University's campus, and if you've happened to see the movie We Are Marshall, pictured ahead is the steel mill which appears in the film.I want to adamantly state that I LOVE the Ohio Valley, and think it was a wonderful place to live. There is such natural beauty to the area, even in the dead of winter.

Caleb

2007-01-24T16:22:00.000-05:00

We did an impromptu photo session with Caleb the other day. I think he could win the cover of Parent's magazine. What a cutie.

The dance

2007-01-22T16:53:00.000-05:00

Saturday night was the event of the season. The venue was beautiful, the food was outstanding, the music was very danceable... a good time was had by all.

ice, ice baby

2007-01-16T12:33:00.000-05:00

Today Nate fell at work on the ice, and came home with a sprained knee. He's taking advantage of the day off by having a bit of quality time with the boy.

Gretchen L. Halverson

Amelia turns two

Hollywood glamour meets grunge

Asia & Jeremy

Christine and John

A little more from Will and Abby

On the beach with the Albairs

Crystal and Jeremy

Mandy and Cameron

Turning 80 with love

Erica and Tony

Tori and Eric

For Sarah...

Andrea and Josh - better late than never...

Sarah and Aubrey

Leslie and Jeremy

Crystal and Jimmy - more photos

Kristine and Dan

Crystal and Jimmy

Wendy and Dave

The Timberlakes

Deanna and Matt

Tori and Eric

More Problems

Geoff and Ana

Dan and Emily

Good things come in threes

Amy and Bill

Nikki and Steve

Colin and Meredith

Wait time on finished photos

Jaime and Steven

Katie and Brian

Molly and Zack

Trish and Erich

Kathleen!

Sarah and Derrick (again!)

Kristin and Justin

Sarah and Derrick

Uncovering gems

Lindsey and Jordan

If you've tried to contact me...

Why First Frame Studio?

Aimee'

Katie and Christian

Still living in my pajamas!

Brian

Jennifer and Mike

Lesley and Tyler

Esther and Bill

More congratulations

Lana's Bridal Shower

Brittnee

Michael and Candy

scheduling updates

Cory and Heather

Nicole and Jesse

Cassandra and Josh

Greg and Amanda

Latest News

Jeff and Khrystyna

Heather and Chris

Patti and Ryan

Kyle and Shaina

Stacey and Sean

Jenn and Jason

most amusing groomsmen award

Brooke and Tyler

Priscilla and Andy

Joey and Ashley

Finally home

When it rains... it molds.

Joe and Brooke

Tammy and Eric

Congratulations are in order!

Amy and Jeremy

Persis and Allan

more wedding pictures

Kim and Scott

Amanda and Scott