Engagement: Ben & Melissa - 4/1/2011

Ben was referred to me through a business relationship, and when I heard what he wanted me to take photos of, it was hard for me to sit still for the rest of the day. Ben wanted me to take photos of him and his soon to be fiancee right after he proposed to her. Talk about hoping she says yes... sheesh! This was no April Fools joke, and thankfully so. The weather was perfect. As instructed, I showed up to Kauffman Memorial Gardens fifteen minutes before Ben's planned arrival. The mission: act like I'm only there to take pictures of flowers. Easy. Ben and Melissa arrived pretty much right on time and walked around for a little bit before journeying into the little greenhouse in the middle of the garden. I started slowly walking away and bent down near some flowers, seriously taking their picture. I heard the door open, followed shortly by joyful laughter that filled the courtyard. Good, she said yes. Ben and Melissa walked by me and I nodded to Ben as they kept walking for a couple more paces. I stood up and said congratulations. Ben turned around, shook my hand, grinning, and introduced me to Melissa. She was floored. Not two minutes later, a group of the couple's closets friends (directed by Ben) showed up to congratulate them. It was awesome. Check below for some shots from the day!

Wedding: Matt & Caity - 11/20/2010

When a great friend comes to me and asks me to shoot their wedding, I always get excited. Not only do I not have to give them a wedding present, but I know the photos will always turn out great because we already have a solid comfort level. Though, I must say, it's equally as exciting to get to work with a new couple and establish that level of comfort. Matt & Caity were married just north of the Nelson-Atkins museum near the Kansas City Art Institute. I love this area. There's tons of history and great architecture. Throw in some awesome lighting and it's almost impossible to take a bad picture. Here are seven or so from the day.