Dorothy Gautreaux Photography

Micki + Chad | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2012-01-04T17:40:00.003-06:00

Micki & Chad had a very intimate wedding on Chestnut Square in downtown McKinney on 11.11.11. I loved their date, details and pretty much everything about their wedding and if you didn't see the earlier post about it, this is my favorite bouquet of all time <3

Hailee {SENIOR}

2012-01-03T12:19:00.003-06:00

Every now and then I'll shoot a session that is not wedding related for friends or previous clients. Back when I still offered family sessions this family was one of my first. They have grown into great friends of ours who take care of our furbaby when we travel. I cannot believe Hailee is graduating high school! Here are a couple of my favorites from her shoot...

Beth + Charlie | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2012-01-02T16:06:00.007-06:00

I've waited quite a while to finally post this amazing wedding but now that it's been published a number of places I can finally show you! You may remember Beth from her engagement session last year. She and Charlie were married on June 11th 2011. This fabulous event was coordinated by the talented Meredith Commender of Significant Events of Texas. Everything was held at Delaney Vineyards in Grapevine, Texas. Her dress is a Maggie Sottero and all florals were done by Lush Couture Floral Design.

This wedding has been featured on Elizabeth Ann Designs, D Magazine, Fab You Bliss, and Brides of North Texas. It will also be featured in the Spring 2012 issue of Brides of North Texas Magazine under Vows that Wow. Thank you Beth for having such an unbelievable wedding!

Stay tuned for pictures from her Newlywed shoot!

Summer Wedding Favorites | Dallas Wedding Photography

2012-01-02T15:59:00.003-06:00

Engagements of 2011 | Dallas Wedding Photographer

2012-01-02T13:24:00.006-06:00

Here are a handful of my engagements from 2011! I love it when my Bride & Grooms do engagement shoots. It gives me an opportunity to get to know them as a couple. It also lets them see how I work plus gives them great pictures to display at the wedding. I think every engaged couple should do shoot, they are so much fun!

I LOVE this dress! Traveling Wedding Photographer

2012-01-02T13:19:00.003-06:00

I see a lot of dresses but I've never seen one quite like this handmade vintage one from a Baton Rouge wedding I had recently so I thought it deserved a post :)

Bridal Highlights! Dallas Wedding Photographer

2012-01-02T13:11:00.005-06:00

Here are a few of my favorite Bridal shots of 2011. There are a handful of other brides I'm dying to show but their weddings are in 2012 so I must be patient but it's killing me!

Ashley + Garrett | Engaged • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2012-01-02T12:35:00.004-06:00

Ashley and Garrett were referred to me by my Bride turned friend, Katherine. Katherine has also become a fabulous wedding coordinator and shoot stylist at Serendipity Event Design and she has planned a Great Gatsby themed wedding for these two later this month. Here are some of my favorite shots from their session.

Recent Kiddo Shoots

2012-01-01T18:52:00.006-06:00

Since I have been terrible about blogging in 2011 I've decided to do a few highlights posts. One of my work related new years resolutions is to blog post regularly!

I don't often shoot anything other than wedding related sessions but occasionally friends of ours or previous wedding clients return for pictures of their kiddos which I LOVE :)

PUBLISHED!!!

2011-11-25T16:50:00.004-06:00

Dorothy Gautreaux Photography has gotten a lot of press lately and I thought it's time to share it with my blog followers!

Style Me Pretty

Elizabeth Ann Designs

LOVE this Bouquet!!!

2011-11-25T15:28:00.002-06:00

Paris Wedding Photographer

2011-08-23T17:44:00.004-05:00

Today I was going through pictures from our European vacation and teared up a little over how much I miss Paris! I would live there for a period of time if I could! Now offering FREE Wedding Coverage to any bride who will fly me there and cover 3 nights hotel for her Paris wedding!

Dallas Bridal Show

2011-07-28T22:23:00.004-05:00

Come visit us this weekend at the Dallas Bridal Show taking place this Saturday & Sunday 10am-5pm at the Dallas Market Hall and use this coupon!

Ashley + Jonathan | Married :: Destination Wedding Photographer

2011-06-14T09:58:00.020-05:00

So I think it's obvious that I've neglected my blog for the past few months so here I am with a super huge post to make up for it! I feel so honored that I was the chosen photographer FOR another photographers wedding. Even better, it was on the beach!!! St. Augustine is officially my new favorite Florida Beach with Destin as a close second. Being Americas oldest city it has so much character downtown and the shores are not crowded with high rise hotels and large condo buildings due to the historic restrictions. The beaches are spacious, dog friendly and the sand is smooth as silk. There is just the right amount of wind so you can layout without breaking a sweat. Having said all of that I will now be implementing destination wedding discounts and incentives galore :)

This wedding has been featured on one of my favorite wedding inspiration blogs, Style Me Pretty. I could not be more thrilled! Here are my favorites from Ashley & Jonathan's style filled wedding!

Their first sight was so emotional, I loved it!

Their first hug as husband & wife...I love the V of birds flying over, it was truly a magical moment.

Kristen + Jacob | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2011-01-13T15:23:00.003-06:00

Look familiar? I love Marty Leonard Chapel!

Beth + Charlie | Engaged • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2011-01-13T15:01:00.004-06:00

If you've seen me shooting a wedding you might have seen Beth, too! She second shoots with me often and I love working with her. I will be shooting their Vineyard wedding in June and it couldn't come sooner!

Kristen {Bridal} Dallas Wedding Photographer

2011-01-12T12:35:00.005-06:00

So glad I FINALLY get to post these from October now that she is married! Number 1 is one of my favorite bridal pictures of all time. Congratulations Kristen for losing 40 lbs, you look amazing!!!

Katherine & Dakota | Married • Fort Worth Wedding Photographer

2010-11-03T12:49:00.003-05:00

Sarah + Jeff | Engaged • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2010-11-02T16:01:00.004-05:00

Natalie + Todd | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2010-11-02T15:50:00.004-05:00

Here's a quick favorite from my 10.10.10 wedding. This was taken right after they first laid eyes on each other at their "First Sight"

Natalie said: "When you first told me about it, I was intrigued. After thinking about for a while I thought it was a great idea, and I was right! There are so few minutes in that day that get to just be the two of you enjoying each other. This was by far the highlight of the whole extravaganza for me "

Todd said: “It was incredible! Getting to see each other, alone before the ceremony, put me completely at ease”.

Katherine B {Bridal} Dallas Wedding Photographer

2010-11-02T15:45:00.003-05:00

Katherine & Doug | Married • Fort Worth Wedding Photographer

2010-09-27T21:24:00.006-05:00

Katherine & Doug are just as sweet as they are beautiful. You may remember them from their steamy engagement shoot earlier in the year or her recent bridal session. She did a fantastic job at planning this vintage, whimsical, backyard wedding on a budget. Katherine got much of her wedding inspiration from Green Wedding Shoes Blog and Ruffled Blog. Her dress is Blue by Enzoani and was purchased at Bliss Bridal Salon in Fort Worth, Texas. This wedding has been featured on One Stylish Bride and The Lovely Find.

Katherine M {Bridal} Dallas Wedding Photographer

2010-09-27T13:17:00.003-05:00

This bride is unbelievably radiant...need I say more?

Ashley {Maternity} Dallas Maternity Photographer

2010-08-09T16:23:00.005-05:00

Ashley and I met on facebook after she saw another clients pictures. She's been following my work since her first pregnancy and we finally got a chance to work together for her second and final pregnancy. It was 101 degrees outside and this girl was a trooper! How gorgeous is she!?!

Kim + Drew | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2010-08-08T13:44:00.004-05:00

Lara Beth + Collin | Married • New York Wedding Photographer

2010-08-07T12:21:00.011-05:00

It warms my heart when clients book me for travel instead of booking a local photographer. These two had a Pennsylvania ceremony and a New York reception. Lara Beth has followed my work on facebook for years and booked me the minute they got engaged after a whopping 10 years together! Congrats you two :)

Lola Rayne {Newborn} Pennsylvania Portrait Photographer

2010-08-06T14:07:00.004-05:00

Tia and I have known each other since we were 13 when I was in and out of school with her from TX to PA to LA then back to PA...you get the idea. I was able to shoot their newborn session while I was in the area for a wedding. Lola is such an angel and I definitely got my fill of baby time getting to hold her :)

Lara Beth {Bridal} Pennsylvania Wedding Photographer

2010-08-05T10:20:00.003-05:00

I've had a crazy busy week but here's a favorite from Lara Beths Bridal session in Pennsylvania 2 days before her wedding!

Landon {Baby} Pennsylvania Portrait Photographer

2010-08-03T12:51:00.008-05:00

Landon was such a joy to photograph and it's so funny what a small world it is...Mom, Patricia is the sister of my bride this Saturday which is the reason I'm shooting out of state this weekend. It turns out years ago the bride (Lara Beth) and her close friend Val (whose wedding I'm also shooting next year) schemed together to get Lara Beths sister to date Vals brother so they might some day get married and these 2 friends would be related. Well what do you know, it worked! And here is their beautiful baby boy :)

Kim + Drew | Engaged • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2010-08-03T12:50:00.005-05:00

This couple was so giggly and I LOVED it! They have such a sweet way about them and I can't wait for their big day coming up!

Lauren + Bryan | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2010-06-22T16:28:00.008-05:00

This Aggie grad and Notre Dame cheerleader tied the knot at St. Anns Cathedral in Coppell. They had a huge beautiful bridal party and a super fun reception. Those Aggies really know how to party!

Danas {Bridals} Dallas Wedding Photographer

2010-06-21T15:30:00.003-05:00

I have been patiently waiting to post these since APRIL!!! Dana and Rich tied the knot Saturday in Mexico so I can finally post these :)

Taylor + Josh | Engaged • Los Angeles Wedding Photographer

2010-06-08T18:39:00.010-05:00

I've never had a client do as much pre-session homework as this one! She's a total blog stalker and I love it! Taylor and I go way back, we met somewhere around the 4th grade. She and Josh are tying the knot in October and I will be IN the wedding but of course shooting ALL their sessions. They live in Los Angeles and doing the session out there with the whole Southern California vibe could not have been more fitting for these too!

This engagement session has been featured by Love Wed Bliss, Done Brilliantly and soon to be one more blog!

Taken in the middle of Beverly Drive in THE Beverly Hills. ^ I've been waiting for the right couple and the right street to do this picture since I bought my first professional camera!

I know this one is cheesy (pardon the pun) but I just LOVE IN-N-OUT Burger and couldn't resist!

Ashleigh + Greg | Anniversary • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2010-05-28T12:51:00.004-05:00

You may remember these two from their June Wedding last year. They ended their session with a hot air balloon ride which was what sparked the idea for the balloons. I'm so happy to see them as in love as they were a year ago, congrats on the first year of marriage!

Caroline + Eric | Married • Baton Rouge Wedding Photographer

2010-05-27T11:58:00.005-05:00

Caroline and I met through Lauren, a previous bride of mine. She and Eric were married at Keiths Ballroom in Lafayette, Louisiana. You may remember these two from the Vintage Engagement Session back in December. LOVE that birdcage veil!

Gregg Family • Baton Rouge Portrait Photographer

2010-05-24T19:36:00.006-05:00

LOVE repeat clients! This family books a shoot every time I go to Baton Rouge, LA to shoot a wedding. Such a beautiful family and I love watching little Cecil grow from session to session :)

What TO wear

2010-05-03T11:27:00.011-05:00

What you wear to your session is very important, you'll have to look at it in those pictures forever. Here are some tips as well as examples :)

• A pattern here and there is great but do stay away from thin, tight stripes. They tend to look like an optical illusion in pictures

• No solid white shirts, it tends to be brighter than your face and it will be the first thing you notice about the picture as opposed to your face.

• Families and couples don't have to match but feel free to come in the same color scheme.

• Bring props! Do you and your fiance love doing puzzles together, are yall huge sports fans, do you go camping together often? Lets incorporate those things that represent yall! Anything will make your session more unique.

Bring a good mix of casual clothes. Each shoot can have up to 2 outfits. We will most likely start with the more casual outfit (if you have 1 casual/one dressy) Also, feel free to bring more than 2 outfits and we can look through them together before starting the shoot to narrow down the best options together.

BELOW: Love, love, love!

BELOW: Not too matchy, matchy but they look coordinating and great together!

BELOW: His shirt is a faint plaid but not too busy, it also has a touches of blue and yellow which tie in with what she is wearing.
BELOW: Simple and stunning!
BELOW: If you are going to go with a theme keep it consistent. These two did a vintage session and everything was vintage: clothes, hairstyle, location
BELOW: I love how this family came in the same color scheme but still with the most attention on the little one. Mom has touches of red in her necklace and dad has a red undershirt. The little guys pattern is busy but it's ok since there is so little of it as opposed to the dad wearing it as an all plaid long sleeve sweater.
BELOW: Great coordinating colors and the kids stand out more than the parents but not too much. Very cute and this was perfect for their Christmas card

Lauren + Chad | Engaged • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2010-05-01T11:19:00.005-05:00

Like a handful of my clients, Lauren and I went to middle school together. We lost touch after I moved away before high school but reconnected through the wonderful world of facebook. These two were nervous before their session claiming they were "not photogenic". Funny enough when I arrived to their session to find Lauren drinking white wine out of a cup and Chad drinking beer out of the paper bag to loosen up. Whatever does the trick!

Becky + John | Married • Fort Worth Wedding Photographer

2010-04-26T13:26:00.006-05:00

These two met online which is becoming very popular with my bookings lately! John and Becky were married at the Fort Worth City Club. Congrats!

Vintage Postcard Save the Dates

2010-04-09T12:50:00.003-05:00

Occasionally I'll get a very out of the box bride (which I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE) who can't find what their looking for as far as announcements and I am happy to design whatever their little heart desires! Kat and I go back and forth all the time through facebook and text messages about all the cool ideas she has for her wedding. I LOVE the untraditional bride!!! I had so much fun making this for her and I can't wait until their wedding :)

Kandia + Doug | Engaged • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2010-04-09T12:45:00.005-05:00

Meet Doug & Kandia. These two are so much fun and so was their engagement session! Doug works with my husband Matt and we've all become great friends. They will be tying the knot in Monterey Bay, California and I actually get to be a GUEST!!! I'm super pumped to be able to enjoy a wedding with my husband as my hot date ;) Don't get me wrong, I LOVE my job more than words but when it comes to close friends and family I like to be a part the celebration!

Mallory + JT | Engaged • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2010-04-06T13:51:00.008-05:00

I'm so glad these two beauties opted for a double session! It was a perfect day to shoot in Dallas. We started in Deep Ellum and finished in the Design District. Mallory and I go back almost 15 years and I'll be IN her wedding so a wonderful assistant of mine will be shooting their big day! Congrats Mal & JT!!

What do your albums look like?

2010-03-30T00:06:00.008-05:00

Here are a few examples of our page designs:

Daniel + Laura | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2010-03-29T11:11:00.005-05:00

I love it when a group of girlfriends passes me around! There were 3 of my brides at one wedding! I photographed my friend and a friend of the bride, Noelle and one of the bridesmaids, Audrey. Laura and Daniel had a beautiful wedding at Maple Manor Hotel in Dallas and right now they are enjoying TWO WEEKS in Italy! What a Honeymoon!

Brian + Julie | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2010-03-28T18:40:00.005-05:00

Julie and Brian had a lovely wedding at a friends house. Funny enough the host was also the officiant and in the band. Talk about one stop shop! Honestly my favorite band I've heard yet at a wedding and as far as I know it's just a hobby for these guys! Impeccable catering done by Savory Catering.

Jeff + Krista | Engaged • Fort Worth Wedding Photographer

2010-03-17T09:43:00.005-05:00

Maybe it's just me but I swear this groom looks like he could be Kevin Bacons brother! He says he doesn't see it but he gets that a lot so I know I'm not crazy. Here are some shots from their session last week at the Botanical Gardens in Fort Worth.

Doug + Katherine | Engaged • Fort Worth Wedding Photographer

2010-03-05T03:47:00.005-06:00

LOVED everything about this session! Hot couple = Hot pictures! It definitely helps that shooting in downtown Fort Worth is totally awesome! Great wardrobe choices too - if my clients are ever wondering what to wear see these! Dressy, then casual, color coordinating but not too matchy, matchy. I cannot wait for their wedding since Katherine is thinking very out of the box in her planning process.

Brent + Ashley | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2010-03-01T17:36:00.005-06:00

Ashley and I went to school together SO long ago and had not seen each other in over 10 years! Another old friend who found their wedding photographer in facebook. It was a beautiful Ceremony at Delaney Vineyards in Grapevine. Thanks for letting me be a part of your special day and Congratulations you two!

Andy + Casey | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2010-02-25T19:20:00.005-06:00

A little bit of a bummer that it rained on Casey & Andy's wedding day but we pulled it off. They have become like family to me after working with them, such a sweet family! Also here are some cute pictures we enjoyed getting in the photo booth at the reception :)

Eric + Caroline | Vintage Engagement • Baton Rouge Wedding Photographer

2010-01-26T13:10:00.007-06:00

Eric & Caroline's Vintage Engagement session was a breath of fresh air. She got all her clothes at "Time Warp" an antique clothing store in Louisiana and we shot this session at her families lake house just outside of Baton Rouge in Port Allen, Louisiana.

Craig + Kim | Engaged • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-12-28T12:30:00.006-06:00

Kim's Dad works with my husband which is how she came across my photography. Too cute how they wore their schools sweatshirts at the end of their session. These two are perfect for each other and will be getting married in July.

Gautreaux Christmas

2009-12-07T11:12:00.006-06:00

Yes, I am that dork that puts a Christmas sweater on my puppy and takes pictures :) Let me tell you, it was quite the task getting my dog to look at the camera with no person behind it trying to get his attention. Out little Toteaux (Get it? Dorothy & Toto like the movie + a little of our last name) was great for his first tripod session.

Ryleigh 3 months • Dallas Portrait Photographer

2009-12-07T10:52:00.004-06:00

Thank you Katie and Ryan for letting me photograph your new love bug. Ryleigh was so calm during out session she's a pro!

Zack + Sarah | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-12-02T14:14:00.005-06:00

These two are so laid back and easy going I could work with them every day! Sarah & Zack had a unique ceremony in an art gallery near their reception location which is one of my new favorite venues Marc Events. I loved this picture below on the red wall SO much that it's now my business card - thanks for being such great models you two!

Christian Family • Dallas Portrait Photographer

2009-12-01T13:39:00.007-06:00

Kevin and I used to work together at my previous job before going full time photography. He has two of the sweetest little girls ever and I always look forward to their Christmas session each year :)

Ray + Alicia | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-11-23T10:43:00.006-06:00

I miss working with these two, so sweet! They had a beautiful wedding and reception at City Place downtown. Check out their awesome Wii grooms cake!

Tyler + Noelle | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-11-20T02:38:00.005-06:00

Noelle has become such a good friend of mine I just don't know what I would do without her! We met at our previous jobs where we were both day dreaming about what we'd rather be doing for a living :) Now she is a teacher and I am a full time wedding photographer and we couldn't be happier! Love ya girl!

Lopez Family • Dallas Portrait Photographer

2009-11-18T08:47:00.005-06:00

LOVE this family! Probably because Mallory is my best friend from childhood :) I'm sure you've seen them everywhere on my site as they are very loyal customers!

Andrew + Cameron | Engaged • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-11-17T10:43:00.005-06:00

Cameron and I met in a very random way. She was helping me pick out my scents at Bath & Body Works where she worked. I noticed she was engaged and gave her my card. These two are so goofy and cute together it's ridiculous! I can't wait til their April wedding.

Rich + Dana | Engaged • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-11-16T12:05:00.005-06:00

Dana found me through a previous bride of mine, you may remember Ashleigh. Dana and Rich will be having a destination wedding in 2010 and they needed a local photographer for their pre-wedding sessions. I can't wait until after their wedding day so I can post her bridals!

Zack + Sarah | Engaged • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-10-30T11:46:00.006-05:00

This was a new session location for me and I loved it! All the bold color walls, brick and graffiti! Sarah & Zack will be getting married near here Thanksgiving weekend and they have chosen a super modern trendy venue where I can't wait to shoot www.marcevents.com

Ray + Alicia | Engaged • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-10-21T15:46:00.009-05:00

One of the sweetest couples ever! Alicia sends me these nice little notes on facebook all the time and I just love her for it! Their wedding is less than a month away and here are my favorites from their engagement session Monday!

Eric + Caroline | Engaged • Baton Rouge Wedding Photographer

2009-10-14T14:10:00.009-05:00

So Caroline and I have decided to become BFF within the first 2 seconds of meeting for the following reasons:

1. I like to take pictures

2. She likes to be in pictures

She now addresses all our emails to her new BFF, she it too funny and I love my clients! They came into this with tons of ideas which was great. Their "Vintage" engagement session will be in December and I cannot wait!

Chris + Lauren | Married • Baton Rouge Wedding Photographer

2009-10-13T10:00:00.010-05:00

Lauren, I will miss texting all the time about your wedding! These two were so emotional even I cried! Overflowing with joy and happy the rain passed it was a great day in Baton Rouge for a wedding.

I teared up too!

More crying...

I'd have to say their money dance was very successful!

This was a first for me, never have I seen beautiful bridesmaids roll on the floor fighting over who gets the bouquet. It was hilarious!

Cullen Barstow • Baton Rouge Portrait Photographer

2009-10-12T16:52:00.009-05:00

Photographing this baby was unbelievable! He was like a puppet and let me arrange him however I wanted. I swear he's not real, he never woke up or cried! Such an angel.

I'm pretty sure he wanted to give me a kiss here.

Jeff + Lara | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-10-08T08:43:00.009-05:00

I'm really going to miss woking with these two; they are so much fun to photograph! I was a little bummed it rained on their big day but we were still able to get plenty of great shots. Jeff and Lara were married at the beautiful Royal Lane Baptist Church.

I'm still not exactly sure what this was about but it was definitely the funniest thing I've seen at a wedding! The grooms entire family (ALL ages) broke out into this choreographed dance which included an alligator!

John + Becky | Engaged • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-10-07T15:18:00.007-05:00

This couple will be my fourth wedding in April which means it's going to be a busy spring! These two love birds met online; how sweet! Here are my faves from their Southlake session.

Lara (Bridals} Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-10-07T08:24:00.008-05:00

Ok so I obviously could not pick a favorite between the first two pictures. I've waiting months to post these and now that the wedding has passed I can! Thank you to the beautiful Union Station in downtown Dallas we were able to get some great shots without melting in the summer heat. Wedding pictures coming soon!

Corbin 7 months • Dallas Portrait Photographer

2009-10-06T17:39:00.007-05:00

Corbin's mom and I go way back and I just love being his "Aunt Dorothy". He's getting so big so fast! We had great weather for this early morning session to avoid the heat and Corbin couldn't have looked cuter - here are my top 5!

Brendan 1 year • Dallas Portrait Photographer

2009-09-23T16:46:00.006-05:00

Isn't he the cutest?! I just wanted to eat him up! Brendan was such an Angel for his one year pictures. Here are my faves :)

Russ + Lacy | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-09-16T13:20:00.012-05:00

These two got engaged on 8.8.08 and married on 8.8.09! Picture number 6 was something I have never seen before - A college friend of the brides is almost 7 feet tall and they did the limbo with his leg!! I loved everything about their wedding and here are my favorite pictures from their big day.

Luke + Courtney | Married • Baton Rouge Wedding Photographer

2009-08-21T09:23:00.009-05:00

These two got married on the LSU campus in Baton Rouge. The Ceremony was held at the Baptist Student Union and the reception was at the Faculty Club. Congrats you two!!

Gregg Family - 1 year • Baton Rouge Portrait Photographer

2009-08-20T10:11:00.009-05:00

I love this family and we go way back so I always make room for their session whenever I'm in Baton Rouge. We did their session first thing in the morning which may become my new favorite time because the light color is perfect! Here are a few of my faves!

Landon Michael Newborn • Dallas Portrait Photographer

2009-07-20T14:15:00.009-05:00

After he peed everywhere 3 times we were able to get some great shots :) Landon loves the camera and was so cooperative it made for a very easy session. Congratulations to mom and dad on their first little addition!

Dusty + Audrey | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-06-25T10:32:00.011-05:00

This was my second wedding this past weekend and it was so neat. It was at Avanti Fountain Place in downtown Dallas. It was still a hot Texas summer day but it sounded so refreshing with the flow of water all around. Love was in the air, the food was wonderful and the location was classy and unique! Congratulations Dusty & Audrey!

Paul + Holly = Paully • Fort Worth Wedding Photographer

2009-06-23T15:34:00.007-05:00

I love that this wedding was out of the box and unexpected. Everything about it was just charming! I go to A LOT of weddings and this one was different. Texas Star Ranch and Retreat couldn't have been a better location for the look this bride was going for. The staff there is so friendly and made for a wonderful, stress free day! Congratulations Paully!

Holly Ann Bridal • Fort Worth Wedding Photographer

2009-06-23T13:18:00.010-05:00

I can finally post these since Paul and Holly's wedding was this past Friday. LOVE the antique look of her dress and the birdcage veil! Their wedding pictures coming soon ~

Greg + Ashleigh | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-06-15T12:16:00.015-05:00

Ashleigh and I went to elementary school together and had not seen each other in almost 15 years! Thanks to facebook she thought of me and booked days after Greg's proposal. They had a beautiful wedding at Paradise Cove in South Lake, Texas on June 5th.

Paul + Holly | Engaged • Fort Worth Wedding Photographer

2009-06-11T17:46:00.014-05:00

I love this girl - Holly loves that nitty gritty urban look! She let my imagination run wild and wanted her pictures taken in this unique old town about 2 hours from Dallas. Mineral Wells, Texas

Anthony + Courtney | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-06-08T12:24:00.011-05:00

This poor couple had to move their wedding not once, not twice, but 3 times dues to Andy's Navy schedule. I'm just glad I was available for their final date. Here are my faves from their wedding at Chapelle de Fleurs in Flower Mound, Texas.

First Sight

2009-05-15T15:44:00.024-05:00

I always recommend my brides and grooms see each other before the wedding for pictures though it is not required. The reason for this is to get all those beautifully artistic and emotional pictures that you would not otherwise have the time or daylight for after the ceremony. Keep in mind this marriage is about just the two of you and that's what your first sight is about instead of having 200 sets of eyes on you at this moment. It breaks the ice and tension of the day so the bride and groom can focus on each other instead of the stresses of the day. We set it up to be special and alone where I will get a few first reaction pictures before I sneak off to let you two have your moment as opposed to getting to the altar and not being able to say anything as the ceremony has begun. This way we don't waste any time after the ceremony and you can get to the reception the same time as your guests to enjoy where most of the wedding budget is spent.

Here is some history on this tradition...

Back in the olden days of arranged marriages the couple would not see each others faces for the first time until the bride was at the end of the aisle to remove the veil covering her face. This was done to prevent the bride or groom from being a no show due to the way the other looked. If you are not betrothed and this is not an arranged marriage then there is no need to play hide and seek on the big day.

I have nothing against a couple who does not want to see each other before the ceremony. I understand and firmly believe that you get what you want on your wedding day, I just want to make sure I educate my clients on their options.

Quote from Bride Casey: "First Sight was the very best idea for Andy and I! I was so extremely nervous to see my husband for the first time all made up in my wedding gown. Although I was still nervous when first approaching him, my tension was quickly eased because we could instantly be excited, laugh and talk together before the ceremony which calmed my nerves! I can’t imagine being that nervous to see him and then having to stand without saying a word to each other for a thirty minute ceremony. The “first sight” was also great for our situation because we were able to take all of our pictures before the ceremony, not prolonging our guests wait time at the reception."

Quote from Groom Andy: "I was not as nervous because I was able to see Casey before the ceremony. We were able to talk and calm each others nerves before standing to take our vows in front of 200 people."

Quote from Bride Karen: "I'm totally glad I listened to Dorothy and did the first sight! I was on the edge of losing it all day long after almost a year of planning your so worried about the end results - you have no idea that you're also worried about seeing your groom - all day I felt like I couldn't take a breath until the few minutes I spent with my groom! It was just us being us and it was exactly what I needed to ease my stress! And it made for some amazing pictures I can look back on them now and I know exactly what we were thinking and laughing about!"

Quote from Bride Sarah in picture below her grooms quote: "I was totally against the idea at first but I am so glad we did! We would not have had the light after the ceremony for the beautiful pictures and I think we would have been anxious to get to the reception. It also gave me a moment to calm down, breathe and kiss my groom once more as a single lady! I am SO glad we saw each other before."

Quote from Groom Zack in picture below: "I thought it was good because I was able to take in the moment just between the two of us. I feel at the ceremony there are so many people watching and you are expected to act a certain way and it is not as genuine. This way I was really able to feel and experience my true emotions."

Quote from Bride Ashleigh in picture below: "I opted to see my husband before the wedding. Dorothy was amazing in this decision!! I have always been one to be traditional about not seeing my husband before my wedding. Well, when Dorothy first presented me with the idea of seeing him before, I was still on the rocks about whether or not I wanted to. Dorothy expressed to me how special she would make it where its just the two of us, how wonderful the pictures turn out and how much time it really does save. When my wedding day came, I was so anxious and nervous just like any other bride. Our wedding coordinator along with Dorothy helped get our special meeting place ready. My husband was the first to go down there and Dorothy had him turn around to face her while I walked up behind him. When he turned around, that was the one of the best moments of the whole entire day. All my anxiety went away when I saw the smile on his face and the tears in his eyes. We were able to share some special time together before the wedding and actually talk to one another!! I loved all the creative photos Dorothy was able to get of us and our wedding party before the wedding. Since all my nervousness was gone, I was able to just have fun with everything and enjoy my day!! I promise it didn't change the reaction my husband had to seeing me for the first time walk down the isle! That moment was still so special! I would not change my decision to this day about seeing him before the wedding."

Quote from Bride Amber in the picture below: "My favorite picture was when I first saw my husband. She really captured that moment for me and I really want to THANK her for that because every time I look at that picture I experience that emotion all over again."

Southern Bridal • Baton Rouge Wedding Photographer

2009-05-15T14:00:00.007-05:00

White Oak Plantation made for a beautiful setting! Lauren was absolutely stunning here - Posted with permission by the bride and the grooms promise to stay away from my site ;) Here are my absolute favs!

Coolest Grooms Cake EVER!!! Baton Rouge Wedding Photographer

2009-05-15T13:37:00.004-05:00

Sorry so short and that it's been almost a month since I've blogged but I had to post this picture! It was from my May 1st wedding in Baton Rouge, Louisiana (Congrats Christian & Catherine!!) Cake by Ambrosia Bakery and it tasted fabulous!

Greg + Ashleigh | Engaged • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-05-15T13:27:00.009-05:00

Ashleigh and I went to school together and have not seen eachother in over 10 years! Oh how we love how facebook reconnects us with all our old friends :) I'm so happy to have been booked for this wedding ~ June 5th 2009

Chris + Lisa | Married • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-04-20T11:37:00.011-05:00

We started the day at the Ritz Carlton in Dallas which couldn't have been more picture perfect. They had a small intimate ceremony at a church nearby and the reception was at my new favorite location - 7 Senses - SO COOL!!! It was very unexpected in the industrial part of Dallas. So stylish and loungy if thats a word. More pictures to come of 7 Senses but here are my top 5 of the day :)

Dusty + Audrey | Engaged • Dallas Wedding Photographer

2009-04-06T14:08:00.010-05:00

This session was a lot of fun for being a cold windy day. These two were troopers and I can't wait 'til their big day - only 10 weeks away!

Chris + Lauren | Engaged • Baton Rouge Wedding Photographer

2009-04-02T12:44:00.011-05:00

This is my last session from my trip to Baton Rouge. I had 5 total but of course cannot post the bridal session of Ms. Courtney until after her July Wedding. Lauren is an old friend of mine from the 10th grade and I'm thrilled to be her wedding photographer!

Baby Coen • Baton Rouge Portrait Photographer

2009-04-01T14:27:00.011-05:00

Coen is such an angel! His big brother Cooper loves him SO much it was just the sweetest thing seeing them two together. Here are my favs from this 3 month olds shoot in BR, LA with mom and big brother.

Gregg Family • Baton Rouge Family Photographer

2009-03-30T11:37:00.013-05:00

Here is another session from my trip to Baton Rouge. Super nice family! They were a joy to photograph and their little boy was such a sweetheart :)

Taylor's 2 year Session • Baton Rouge Portrait Photographer

2009-03-30T10:52:00.007-05:00

Taylor is SUCH a doll!!! Here are my favorites from her session. More pictures to come soon from the rest of the sessions I had while in Baton Rouge last week.

Jordan's Senior Session • Dallas Senior Photographer

2009-03-26T09:22:00.003-05:00

I found a new favorite hot spot for sessions last week! Here are a few of my favorites!

Locks of Love

2009-03-16T12:02:00.002-05:00

This week I cut off over 10 inches of hair to donate to charity! I did it in 2000 and I thought it was about time to do it again. I'm so glad I did - I love my new do and I'm glad I could contribute to such a wonderful cause! http://www.locksoflove.org/