I don’t photograph many cats but the fact of the matter is that a cat was my first paying portrait customer when I was 14 and first starting out. There were actually two cats, Burmese twins, skinny little critters who managed to scatter under everything in what was my bedroom/studio back then. Herding cats, that was indeed my very first job.

So, when Calvin came along he probably knew that I was a very experienced cat handler so, he cooperated….. kinda. Needless to say, he stood still long enough to get some “relaxed cat portraits”. He’s a beautiful specimen and a good boy. I like Calvin. Jack liked sniffing where Calvin had been. Which was almost everywhere.

So normally this time of the year I’m all about sunflowers, but this year I got a hydrangea bush and I’ve never had one before. So, I’ve been pretty impressed by how long the blooms actually last on a hydrangea bush. It’s amazing that these big, huge beautiful flowers last weeks and in living color the whole time. My bush currently blooms from pink to lavender-blue, and I’m hoping the pH where I planted it is going to be able to keep the color same cause I think they are just about the perfect. Here’s one of the shot I liked most.

I’ve already booked one wedding for next year at The Patrick Henry Ballroom and after seeing the completed renovations today I’m pretty stoked about the potential this venue has for some stunning photography. Little vignettes for couple portraiture all within the building itself and beautiful details everywhere. The ballroom is the PERFECT color to lend atmosphere to any wedding or reception and will make everything glow. The architecture within is exceptional with palladium windows, crystal chandeliers, a gorgeous fireplace, and beautiful floors ready for the first dance. The bridal suite (at least that’s what I’m calling it) has gorgeous light and room for even the largest wedding party. And here’s the added bonus, it’s right downtown within a block or two of all the other shooting locations that make for a great backdrop on your wedding day. It is a key part of the continuing downtown Roanoke renaissance and it’s a job well done by people who care all the way around.

Here’s a few shots I snapped today. Of course, nothing is decked out quite yet and it still looks amazing.

What do you do when you’re in the middle of wedding season and it’s hot outside? You blog a wedding from cool and colorful October. This was a fantastic wedding and we are finalizing their album so I’m loving their images all over again. I’m missing 60 degree days, too!

Here was a beautiful wedding at Braeloch on a perfect day in late April. Everyone happy, everyone on time, great food, great band, and beautiful flowers. Best of all, the bride and groom are moving from Richmond to Roanoke because Roanoke is the best place of all to live!

Wedding season is upon us and it is HOT and heavy. Especially HOT!

Here are a few more from the Liz and Matt’s eSession back in cooler times.