Ben Finch Photography » Travel

Evelyn Rose Atkins {Newborn Session | Huntsville, AL}

Ben Finch — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:00:10 +0000

This past weekend seemed like a whirlwind. Last thing I recall was sitting in my office at about 11 am on Friday trying to send a few remaining emails while also getting a few projects in enough order so that I could be gone for the weekend. A good friend of mine & rockstar photographer (literally… John Legend & Matisyahu to name two!), Mary Margaret Chambliss, emailed me a few weeks back to see if I’d be up for a weekend in Birmingham helping her photograph a wedding. I met MM a few years back at a photographer conference & we hit it off & have kept in touch since. And since I rarely get the opportunity to assist a wedding, I thought it would be a good experience, a reminder even of why I love what I do. It certainly was.

Joy’s parents were kind to keep our kids & we enjoyed two nights away in Birmingham. It was truly fantastic & I can’t tell you how much I enjoy date nights with my bride. Friday night we had a quiet dinner at The Cheesecake Factory, followed by brunch the next morning at one of my new favorite diggs… Another Broken Egg Cafe in Mountain Brook. A few hours later, Mary Margaret & I rocked the wedding at Canterbury Methodist, followed by a beautiful reception at the Mountain Brook Club. And congrats to MaryeBeasley & Richard… you guys know how to throw a party!!!

The next morning I woke up completely exhausted from all the activity (getting in at 2am does that to an old guy). Yet I had an idea of what the afternoon held & was eager to visit a friend I’ve known for years. I drove up to Huntsville & was greeted by the Atkins family. Eric & I went to high school together & we’ve kept in touch since. He happens to be one of the smartest guys I know & has become quite famous on #Instagram… I’m slightly jealous. He’s a great guy & has a genuine love for the Lord. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that he’s an Alabama fan! I met his wife, Erin, when they were dating & was reminded how he clearly married up! Ha.

Erin & Eric invited me to come photograph their beautiful new daughter, Evelyn Rose. I was honored & had such a fantastic time photographing & catching up with friends. And, EV is so beautiful! When I arrived, she was nestled in her crib, sound asleep.

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One of my favorites.

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Look at all that hair!

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This may be my favorite of her by herself.

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Beautiful little features.

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TIny toes.

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Eric was absolutely thrilled about his new girl!

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Love that.

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Congrats my friends. I was honored to visit & photograph this season of your lives.

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Grant & Fernanda Wedding {Calvary Baptist Church | L&N Depot, Tuscaloosa, AL}

Ben Finch — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:00:40 +0000

I couldn’t have dreamed it any better. It was December 30 & my bride & I were headed toward Tuscaloosa, AL, after having left all three kids with Joy’s parents, Praise-a-lujah!!! We were so excited to have a weekend away & to be staying with some of our closest friends, Ish & Amber. We had plans for the evening to take on Downtown Tuscaloosa & ended up at what is now one of my favorite spots, 5, the restaurant. All in the world seemed good. I enjoyed time with some of my favorite people in the world & am quite certain I wore a smile the entire evening. Could it get any better?!

Well, it most certainly did. The main reason for the trip was to photograph the wedding of Grant & Fernanda. Following their vintage inspired engagement shoot, I knew their wedding was going to be incredible. What’s not to love about these two?! Grant is as nice of a guy as you’ll find & his leadership qualities seem effortless. And Fernanda, what a beautiful & pleasant bride, inside & out! They have such a wonderful marriage to look forward to!

The day of the New Year’s Eve wedding was unreal. Who would’ve believed that it would be a calm 70 degrees throughout the day. And the wedding party, as well as Grant & Fernanda’s families, were so gracious & hospitable. It felt like I’d known them for a lifetime. To top it off, I had my best mate, Ismael, helping me throughout the day; we were also privileged to work alongside Thomas & Sarah of TLC Wedding Videography.

Our coverage for the day began at the Historic L&N Station, site of the reception. Since the sun sets so early for Winter weddings, I was eager to shoot some of the reception details beforehand. I love how Grant & Fernanda continued the vintage theme from their engagement session into the wedding details.

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Vintage postcards were available for guests to write the couple messages… love this idea!

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In lieu of favors, Grant & Fernanda made a donation to Rebuild Tuscaloosa.

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Wedding photos of parents & grandparents lined the short hall of the station.

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We then met up with Fernanda & her mother, Suzana, at Divine Appointments for their hair & makeup.

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The ceremony was held at the church where Grant & Fernanda attend, Calvary Baptist Church, Tuscaloosa, AL. Here, I captured some of the details.

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On Fernanda’s bouquet was a Brazilian pendant, passed down from her grandmother.

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The final preparations.

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The couple chose to see one another before the ceremony, allowing some outdoor portraits before the sun was to set. Here’s their first look & exchange of gifts.

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We then ventured outside for some portraits of the couple, followed by wedding party & family photos. I love seeing these two together.

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Fernanda, you are such a lovely bride!

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Such a dapper groom!

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Fernanda & her beautiful ladies.

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The wedding party.

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And the fellas.

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Every time I see this shot & the series (sorry, didn’t post them all), I can’t help but hear the song “Sabotage” run through my head.

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Fernanda & her mother.

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With her father.

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Grant & his parents.

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As the ceremony begins.

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Hooray!!!

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And the party started!

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The first dance.

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Fernanda & her father… love this picture!

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And Grant & his mother… it never fails that I have to hold back tears during these dances.

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Once the dancing kicked in, the party let loose.

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The band for the evening were all University Fellows from the University of Alabama… they were a blast!

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And the guests saw the couple off with sparklers… such a beautiful day!

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Congrats friends! I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed being a part of your day. Enjoy this highlight post, there are many more to come!

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Israel: A Photographic Journey now available on the iPad/iPhone

Ben Finch — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 13:00:46 +0000

Just when I thought it couldn’t get an better, it does. I’m excited to share the news… “Israel: A Photographic Journey” is now available as an eBook for the iPad & iPhone (using Apple’s iBooks app)! And everyone said, “Hooray!!!” With the advancement in technology comes the ability to purchase & have a copy of my travel photography book for a fraction of the cost of owning a print version (although those are available as well!). In time for Christmas & available upon immediate download, you can receive the eBook for $14.99 or pick up/order a print copy for $115. The inventory for the eBooks are unlimited but in order to have a copy of the print version in your hand before Christmas, you may need to act fast. Click here to p urchase. If you are local, I have a 4 copies available if you’d like to pick it up from the studio… contact me directly in that case.

Here’s a description of the book:
“Israel: a photographic journey is a collection of photographs taken from several trips to the ancient land of Israel. Many of the pictures have a biblical theme, yet others are more modern and descriptive of the land today. If you have never seen how beautiful the land of Israel is or have always wanted to visit, yet haven’t gathered the funds, consider Israel: a photographic journey. It will illuminate your perspective on that tiny stretch of land that has the entire world’s attention.”

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Click here to view/order a copy from the publisher’s bookstore.

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And a few snapshots from the contents of the book:

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A portion of the proceeds are reinvested into an account that provides support for those who are seeking to do university campus ministry & foreign missions/aids work. So far, we’ve been able to provide full financial support for 3 students doing work abroad.

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If you’re looking for a coffee table book rich in historical/spiritual meaning, check out Israel: A Photographic Journey. Buy a book = help support good things. In case you missed the link, it is: http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/245716

Ross & Nataria {Barnsley Gardens Resort Wedding | Adairsville, GA}

Ben Finch — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 12:00:54 +0000

When I consider all the details involved to make a wedding as beautiful as Ross & Nataria’s wedding, I can’t help but be thankful for the opportunity to share & document this occasion. Dozens of meetings have been coordinated, countless ideas considered, vendors scheduled, orders placed, & so much more. Friends & family have taken time & sacrificed resources to travel from all over the United States & abroad to display their affection for this couple. I spoke to people from Boston & Atlanta, Kansas & San Francisco, even Thailand. It all hit me as I paused for a moment at Ross & Nataria’s reception & watched a portion of the slideshow her brother made for them. It was then that I was reminded of the value of the covenant of marriage. And, I was reminded of the value of good friends, family & love that goes beyond boundaries. What a gift.

Ross & Nataria’s wedding took place at the beautiful Barnsley Gardens Resort in Adairsville, GA. I think you’ll clearly see why this romantic luxury resort is worth a short drive to visit. Enjoy!

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The whole day went smoothly thanks to Veronica & her team at Veo Wedding & Events… such a fun group of ladies. And Stacy Price & her team at Barnsley Gardens were more than helpful & beyond professional.

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Nataria’s dress was simply beautiful.

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I love these of Nataria adding the final touches. She looked incredible. Her hair & makeup were done by the extremely talented Jane Kim, owner of the Glamourist.

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The bride’s bouquet & all the other floral arrangements were so well done… gorgeous… by Grafe Studio.

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And the man of the hour, Mr. Ross Cohn.

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The view of the grand manor, where a portion of the reception was held, as seen from the front gardens.

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As the ceremony begins.

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You can see the pride in Nataria’s father’s face.

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Does it get any better than this?

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I enjoyed a few moments alone with the couple.

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The 150+ year old brick, open roof & archways were a perfect backdrop.

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The wedding party.

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Family.

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Following the ceremony, guest were informed of their table settings by Maple leaf name cards inserted into pine cones… perfect idea for a Fall wedding.

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One of the manor’s fireplaces (L) & a table set up for wedding favors for the guests (R).

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The floral arrangements were perfect.

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Some nice touches for the reception.

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The bride & groom’s cakes speak for themselves… by Cup a Dee Cakes.

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The groom’s cake was perfect for Ross.

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Dinner details.

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C. Scott Moody & his crew kept the party going for hours!

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The first dance.

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This was such a great moment as Nataria & Ross & their wedding guests watched a photo slideshow prepared by Nataria’s brother.

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Toasts.

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Once the dancing started, the dance floor was hopping until closing time!

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Love it!

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Reeling it in… ha!

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And guests sent the couple away… congratulations Ross & Nataria! It was such a pleasure serving you & your family. I can’t wait to see you guys again soon!

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Wesley & Anna {Leighton, AL Wedding}

Ben Finch — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 11:00:48 +0000

When I was 3 years old my dad followed his job with TVA from a little town in North Alabama, Guntersville, to the Smoky Mountains of East TN. Both of my parents are from Alabama; my mom having grown up in a little town called Leighton, AL, & my dad being from Tuscumbia, AL. When we talk about “family,” our minds always drift Southwest toward the Muscle Shoals of AL. Growing up I remember how excited my sister & I used to be as we sat in the back of my parents’ silver Pontiac Bonneville & we ventured from the hills to the flats. We’d pass down through Chattanooga to South Pittsburgh, AL, then Scottsboro to Huntsville, & last, from Decatur to our destination. When we’d reach my grandmother’s house (mom’s mom), we were surrounded by cotton fields, chicken houses, screen doors, apple trees & a huge Mimosa tree made for climbing. It was the life!

Best of all, some of our favorite cousins lived across the street, Wesley & Wendy. Because I’m the youngest of the grandchildren, I always felt taken care of by all my cousins. I vividly remember putting on comedy skits where we’d act out routines (think Who’s Line is it Anyway?). I always wanted to be as funny as my cousin, Wesley; his skits were always the funniest! At the time, my sense of humor was mostly defined by making farting noises (some things never change… ha!). It was a world far away from today & I as I look back, I realize how special it really was.

Just over a week ago I piloted my little family back toward the cotton fields of North Alabama. We were visiting for a very special reason as my cousin, Wesley, was marrying the love of his life, Anna. They met at church one Sunday when she visited with her cousin, who happens to be his best friend. What began as a friendship grew into something much more. She adored his ability to make her laugh no matter what the circumstance & he thought she was gorgeous & loved how she laughed with (sometimes at) him. On September 3, they became husband & wife. And they were kind enough to ask me to photograph the occasion. Congratulations Wesley & Anna (& their little girl, Kiley Grace); we love you guys!

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The ceremony & reception was held at Leighton Baptist Church in Leighton, AL.

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The couple displayed pics of family members who have passed away. The large picture in the silver frame are my grandparents, my mother’s parents, Lillian & Benjamin David Burden. Now that I think about it, we share similar taste in glasses… ha!

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Anna’s dress was gorgeous.

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The lovely bride, Anna.

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And the dapper groom, Wesley.

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They decided to see one another before the wedding; here are a few images from their “First Look.”

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And of course we had to get outside!

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Love these!

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One of my favorites for sure!

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As the ceremony begins. Their daughter, Kiley Grace, walked with Anna’s Father & Anna down the aisle… it was so cute!

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It was such a pleasure to see them so happy!

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Wesley is on a competitive BBQ team… apparently they’ve placed really high nationally in a few categories. His cake was so fitting. His mother, Nancy, did both of the cakes… isn’t it great!

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And wow, a candy line at the reception!

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They’ll cherish this forever!

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Sandy & Scott {Dancing Bear Lodge Wedding | Townsend, TN}

Ben Finch — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 12:11:01 +0000

Last Friday afternoon I headed northeast to one of the most scenic little towns in our region, Townsend, TN. The weather channel was calling for thunderstorms throughout the day & I drove through a terrible downpour on the way up. When I arrived at Dancing Bear Lodge I could hear thunder in the distance yet on the side of that mountain, their was no rain in sight. And I was glad. And so were they. A girl from Maryland, Sandy, & a guy from Virginia, Scott, had ventured down to Tennessee to become husband & wife.

It was a beautiful & simple wedding, just what they wanted.

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I visited the Smokemont cabin as Sandy was almost ready.

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At 3pm sharp we walked down the drive toward the Lodge where her groom was waiting.

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The Dancing Bears… love this piece!

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I loved the simplicity of the ceremony.

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The Dancing Bear does such a wonderful job for their guests. Here is the cake they made for the wedding.

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And my favorites!!!

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Congratulations Sandy & Scott! You were such a pleasure to be around; thanks for letting me share this occasion with you!

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Jansen & Julie {Dancing Bear Lodge: Townsend, TN Wedding}

Ben Finch — Wed, 02 Feb 2011 16:54:57 +0000

When I was a little Finch around the age of 4, my dad followed his job with TVA (Tennessee Valley Authority) from beautiful Guntersville Lake area in Alabama to the foothills of the Smoky Mountains in East TN. I was too young to recall but I imagine it was a huge step to leave North Alabama, the area both of my parents had grown up. We took root in Athens, TN. Of course I did what most little boys do, I followed my big sister’s lead.

I have vivid memories of a house we rented for a short time before purchasing the home in which we were raised. It had a huge basement, perfect for my radio controlled race cars. And a laundry chute; I was ever tempted to jump down that thing. And, it’s the house I lived in when I first met Julie & Andy.

They lived just down the road. Julie was a year younger than my sister, Amy, and I was a few years older than Andy, Julie’s brother. It was a great fit. At one point my dad was in a bad car accident & Julie’s mom picked up my sister & I from school & we stayed at their house for several days. Their dad was an airplane pilot so I was constantly enamored by Andy’s toy planes. And one time, the Axley’s took a trip up north to Chicago & Wisconsin (I think) & they were kind enough to take my sister. I remember being devastated that I wasn’t able to go; I cried like crazy.

Many years passed & they were still good friends. Eventually, they moved out of the neighborhood but we all still went to school together. When I entered high school, my sister had already graduated, but Julie was there, like a sister to me. I always kind of considered her to be.

And this past Saturday Julie was a bride; I was honored to photograph her wedding to Jansen Bailey. Here’s their day:

The wedding festivities were held at Dancing Bear Lodge in Townsend, TN. This venue is exceptional including all the amenities & conveniences one might desire for a wedding.

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I admit I was slightly skeptical about the thoughts of a pre-wedding ceremony flag football tourney. I could only imagine how sore I would be. But it proved to be the perfect idea. Some serious competitors out there.

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Shortly after, it was prep time. Love this pic of the Bailey’s that his dad brought.

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The groomsmen gifts were top-notch.

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Jansen is looking quite dapper!

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The fellas.

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A note from Julie explaining his wedding gift… an all-expense paid trip to Munich for Oktoberfest.

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And now a look at the bride as she prepares for the ceremony. A few details to begin with:

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Julie & Jansen’s dog, Remi.

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Love the feel of these two images.

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Julie made a beautiful bride!

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Her ladies.

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Favorite.

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As the ceremony approached there was excitement in the air.

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Julie & Jansen’s ceremony was really nice. I love how family was seated below & friends stood above surrounding them with support.

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The moment they’d been eager for… together!

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The wedding party.

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Another favorite!

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The reception was incredible.

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One of my favorite moments occurred during the reception when Jansen’s sister, Kara, offered a toast. She shared stories of growing up with such a wonderful older brother; I couldn’t help it, I was tearing up behind the camera. Really special!

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In 2004, Julie’s brother, Andy, went on to be with the Lord. A memorial was setup in his honor & we took time to remember him. A very moving moment occurred during the ceremony when Julie & Jansen lit a candle in his honor.

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Julie & Jansen showed us all how to dance!

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And the party further ensued. I was hanging from the chandeliers to get this pic. What can I say, I’ll do anything for a picture!

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I’d have to agree, Julie & Jansen, you guys are the perfect match. Congratulations & thank you for the honor of photographing your wedding.

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Details:

Dancing Bear Coordinator: Melanie Clifford
DJ: Mike White of Sound Revue
Florist/Decor: Becky Tate
Rehearsal Dinner: Miss Lily
Julie’s dress: Bride Beautiful

The Simmons Family {Telliquah Falls, TN}

Ben Finch — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 14:48:46 +0000

A Thanksgiving tradition it has become! Last year our family enjoyed the opportunity to spend a day during Thanksgiving with the Simmons family at Telliquah Falls. You can read last year’s recap & see the pics here. This year, we knew we had to repeat! 2010 has been a wonderful year for the Simmons family & I was privileged to share this time with them.

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The family pic! This year it was a pleasure to welcome Kay’s mother & father as well as Peter & Bethany’s little one, Hudson. Additionally, Josh & Meggie are expecting their first child… next year expect this picture to have even more family members!

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“Hilarious” is all I can say about this! I asked everyone to turn to their significant other. Drew pulled out a piece of cardboard with a big question mark… he gazed intently & offered his hand!

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The Hedgers: Peter, Bethany & Hudson. One thing I’ve learned about Peter & Bethany is that you never know what’s going to happen when they are around… love it!

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Josh & Meggie Simmons. This year, Josh & Meggie moved from Greenville, SC to New York City & are now expecting their first child. Isn’t it amazing what potential a year can hold?! Doesn’t Meggie look great!

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Jake & Loren Simmons. It’s wonderful to see these two interact… I love the affection they possess for one another. On a personal note, I’ve been very encouraged by Jake’s friendship as we are taking a class together at church, providing a great context to know one another better… such a man of character.

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Mike & Kay Simmons. Mike & Kay have set a wonderful example to us all about living for the glory of God. I’m thankful for their insight in our lives & how they continue to point us toward the Gospel.

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I really love this picture!

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Kay’s parents… how wonderful!!

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Peter wanted some pics of just he & Bethany so we took a moment to capture them together.

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“One generation shall commend your works to another, & shall declare your mighty acts.” Psalm 145:4

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My eyes were filled with tears as I watched them interact.

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Simmons family… love you guys! Thank you.

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The Ketchams {Lifestyle Session, Spring City, TN}

Ben Finch — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 18:58:08 +0000

I wish someone was in the passenger seat when I was following the Ketchams out to their family farm; it was nuts! There I was, driving up a huge mountain, venturing down a few long country roads, looking into the rear-view mirror attempting to memorize the landmarks… tall oak tree beside a stream, red tractor, a bunch of cows, etc. I thought to myself, “If they are wanting to shoot me & dump my body somewhere, this is certainly the place!” I first realized we weren’t in “Kansas” anymore when we turned onto Possum Trot Rd. As if that weren’t crazy enough, we then took a sharp right onto Big Neck Rd. Okay, enough already, who’s in charge of naming these roads? What is a Possum Trot… does anyone know? I digress.

We eventually pulled the car over beside a long barbed wired fence. Unexpectedly I glanced to my left, an incredible field opened up & I quickly noticed the late colors of fall in the foreground with evergreens in the distance. It was beautiful. And when I think about it, every time I have the opportunity to spend some time with the Ketchams, I am greatly encouraged. They’re such a fun family. You may recall their pics from earlier this year when I was in their home for Andrew’s newborn lifestyle session. This session was different; the wind was freezing cold but the location couldn’t have been more scenic & perfect.

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Sometimes it’s just too cold outside & you just want to cry.

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But everything is better when you’re in your momma’s or daddy’s arms.

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I love this picture… maybe I’ll photoshop our family into it & have it enlarged onto a huge canvas for our living room!!

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The Ketchams recently purchased a cafe in downtown Athens, Stonehaus Deli. It is by far one of my favorite lunch stops; I’m a fan!!

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It’s so neat to see Laura with Andrew! I love the privilege to photograph friends & their families.

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On the property is also an old barn… we stopped for a few pics.

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This is real life!

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Pictage Partnercon {NOLA}

Ben Finch — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 02:30:39 +0000

Annually, I jump in the Honda & head south to New Orleans for a week to attend Pictage’s PartnerCon. It happens to be one of the most anticipated weeks of my year. The experience lends itself more to a reunion of all your college friends rather than a work conference. It is at PartnerCon that I have developed some deeply meaningful relationships with some of the best photographers in the country & I inevitably leave with solid business advice & ways to offer better service. Most importantly, I leave further enriched with friendships.

There were many highlights from the trip. One of my favorite sessions was one evening with Ralph Alswang & Paul Morse as they shared their stories & photos of when they were White House Photographers for Presidents Bill Clinton & George W. Bush. It was so intriguing to hear them recall their daily duties & highlights of shooting behind the scenes of our nation’s presidency.

Also, I’m rather partial to my dear friend, Melissa Jill. I loved having the opportunity to spend time hanging with Melissa & to hear her present on “5 Key Lessons” she has learned thus far in her business. She never ceases to amaze me with her generosity & honesty coupled with her business acumen. Great job friend!

There were many others who I thoroughly enjoyed meeting or getting to know better. If I were to mention all the names & all the reasons I’m grateful for them, it would take days. Until next year PartnerCon friends, here are a few pics to document the trip.

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This year, I stayed several blocks away from the conference (hosted at the Astor Crowne Plaza on Canal St.) on St. Charles St. Each morning I would catch the trolley, settle onto it’s old wooden benches & enjoy the 15 minute commute.

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This year I rarely brought out my camera. I focused rather on learning as much as possible & taking advantage of conversations. The following picture (along with the first pic in this post) was taken at sunset from the sundeck of my hotel.

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Another highlight of my trip was the opportunity to share coffee with a family friend, Sarah Rhodes. Sarah is from Scottsboro, AL & a recent graduate of Auburn University who just months ago moved to New Orleans to pursue her dream & use her degree in Fine Arts. Check out (& buy!) her work at From My Bookshelf Etsy store & her Sizarah Etsy Store. We met up for coffee at Rue de la Course, opted for a spontaneous photo shoot & visited a used bookstore. It was super-fun!

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