Mcllvaine Family
One of the greatest and most rewarding aspects of what we do as photographers is getting to know those with whom we work on a very distinct level that is not always seen by others. As photographers who primarily walk the path between art and documentary we get to know our subjects on a plane that not many people do. Our clients invite us in to see their world the way that they do, but at the same time we come from our own creative perspective to look with our own eyes... "eyes" meaning our unique perspective behind the camera, taking into account elements like camera angle, focal length, depth of field, lighting choices, etc. It's a unique interaction with people, it's an intimate look into relationships, It's fascinating, it's creatively inspiring, and it's one of the things that keeps us coming back to this medium of expression each and every day.
One thing that makes that glimpse into the personal lives of our subjects even more profound is when they decide to shoot at a location that is very special to them. And where can you go that's more intimate than your own home? The home is where real life unfolds in a very real way. Don't get me wrong, I completely understand the desire to shoot at a location that is visually captivating, whether it be an urban environment, a park, or somewhere in rural nowheresville. We shoot on location a lot, and there are many things that we really enjoy about that too... shoot, for one, it's typically much easier, photographically speaking. But the intimacy of the family dynamic in the safety and comfort of the home, and the relaxed interactions that come along with that are hard to match elsewhere.
So... all of that being said, I'm really glad that Monica and Patrick chose to shoot with their 2 boys, and their dog, at their own home. We, and they, were very happy with how the images turned out and with the story that they tell as a whole.
I had a blast shooting Monica and Patrick and their kiddos! They are such a sweet family, and their love for each other was bouncing off of the walls! We got to shoot Monica and Patrick's wedding a while back and it was so fun getting to come back and documenting their growth as a family!
Here are some of our favorites from the shoot... enjoy!
Rusty + Meagan || Wedding :: Boulder, CO
Remember that wedding almost a year ago when I got to spend the weekend with a handful of great friends from college and when I got to see this amazing couple get married? Yeah, it's taken just a bit of time, but here are some more images from Rusty's and Meagan's wedding in Boulder, Colorado.
I can't even describe to you how special it was to be a part of their lives in this way and to join with so many other great people in the celebration! Favorite moments include a midnight hike with the infamous Donnie Mortimer in Lyons, CO, and a midnight (the next night) march down Pearl Street after the wedding reception lead by Rusty, Meagan, and a few guys from the crazy talented Space Capone entourage (<-- seriously... click that link... you won't be sorry)!
These guys, and their families, know how to throw down a timelessly epic party, and they know how to treat those around them with love and hospitality.
Rusty and Meagan: Thank you so much for making me a part of these moments! My life is richer having celebrated this occasion with you, your families, and your (our) friends.
Loni + David || Kansas City Wedding
Loni and David were married at Christ Community in Brookside and their reception was held at The Little Theatre in downtown Kansas City, Missouri.
Felicia + Cody || Kansas City Wedding
Felicia and Cody were married at Our Lady of Sorrows in Westport. Their reception was held at The Monarch Room in Downtown Kansas City, Missouri
Cody + Felicia || Engagement :: Kansas City
If you've thought about dressing up a little for your engagement session.... DO IT! This was one of our favorite engagement sessions this year. Cody and Felicia decided to get a little dressed up and start off the shoot at Harry's, one of their favorite local Kansas City establishments. Their wardrobe matched the environment perfectly. After leaving Harry's, we headed to a lesser-known spot that overlooks the West Bottoms near downtown to chase the remaining daylight.
Not only did I have a great time shooting with these two, but they treated me to a gin and tonic to start things off! Gotta love drinking on the job ;)
Rachel + Stephen || Wedding :: Kansas City
Rachel and Stephen are two absolutely lovely individuals. That's the honest truth, but now that I write the words, "individual" seems like the wrong word. Rachel and Stephen are part of a larger community of some of the nicest and most genuine people around. It's often said that the people with whom we surround ourselves speaks a great deal of truth to who we are as "individuals", and I believe that rings true for this couple. We witnessed so much joy on their wedding day... and it wasn't the typical happiness that naturally coincides with a wedding... it was deeper. It's hard to explain, but we feel honored to have been able to take part in their momentous day, and blessed to have witnessed the love that this bride and groom have for each other, as well as those closest to them.
ERIK + CALLIE || SNEAK PEEK
Here's a quick sneak-peek into Callie and Erik's Kansas City Wedding. One of my favorite shots of the day was taken in a freight elevator in the Hobbs Building in the West Bottoms. More to come later...
ABBY + TYLER || WEDDING :: KANSAS CITY, MO
Abby and Tyler were married in St Joseph, MO last fall. I'd actually never been to St Joseph... or "St Joe" as they call it, but it's sort of a charming little town. With their classy attire coupled with the beautifully traditional aspects of their ceremony (not to mention the hometown draw), it seemed like the perfect place for these beautiful people to embark on a lifelong adventure.
Monica + Patrick || Wedding :: Kansas City, MO
Monica and Patrick McIlvaine were married on June 28th, 2014 at Lake Quivira. I often feel like a broken record, but we have had the incredible fortune to have worked with so many wonderful people. Monica and Patrick were certainly no exception! ..Such genuine people that exude honest and thoughtful care to those around them. We have had a pleasure working with them and their families
Justin + Adrienne || Wedding :: Kansas City, MO
Ever since we shot Justin and Adrienne's engagement session, we've been stoked to partner with them on their wedding day. They are two of the nicest people you will ever meet, and we've really enjoyed getting to know them. Justin and Adrienne were married at Christ Community Church in Brookside had their wedding reception at The Guild in the Crossroads.
On a side note: I've been after that particular photograph above since we moved to Kansas City about 2 years ago. I finally had the time, location, and the perfect couple to pull it off!!
Oh, lastly, this was also our first time working along side the folks from The Photo Bus. They've got a seriously rad thing going (there are a couple photos at the end of this post)... so, if you're looking for a fun and unique photo booth option for your wedding reception, please check them out!
Now... some photos...
