You may recognize this couple! We ran a contest a few months back and they were our winners. When I sat down with Bee + Jenny and got to know them better I felt like I was actually the winner here ! These two are so sweet and genuine and when they told me some of their favorite things to do where making pancakes , painting , reading together and the occasional video game challenge , it was a no brainer that their session was going to be in the home they created together. 

What better way to break the winter slump then with these two ? From the moment I reached their front door with their Wizard of Oz inspired sign I felt like I stepped right into one of Ms. Glinda's happy little bubbles. I admit I stayed longer then I usually would but if you where there you would have too. From fluffy pancakes to the perfect soundtrack it was easy to loose track of time. I hope that you feel the love that they have shared too <3 

P.S. A special little surprise. I am excited to announce that I now offer video services alongside photography . I am still working out some of the details but if you have been following along on other platforms then you have seen some of them. I have been exploring many different methods and collaborated with other artists to try and bring you the best experience and quality products that I can , I would love to hear from you ! Which has been your favorite so far and why ? Drop a comment below or shoot me an email , SamanthaBstudio@gmail.com . I will be compiling most of them together on my new YouTube Channel Samantha B Studio check it out.  I hope you feel beautiful today <3 

---You did it ! Tell us about your over all experience---

"I had a great time!  Samantha was very professional and did everything she could to make sure I was comfortable.  I had such an overwhelming feeling of confidence during my session, which is not something I expected given the nature of the photography! "

---Were you nervous at all leading up to your session?---

"Not really.  I was more excited than anything else.  My biggest fear was not knowing what to do in front of the camera, but [she] gave really good and simple direction.  It was fun watching myself come out of my comfort zone and really get into it as the session went on."

---What inspired you to book a Boudoir session?---

"My biggest inspiration was myself.  I have been on this crazy, awesome, exciting health and fitness journey over the past year.  With eighty pounds and 7 dress sizes down, I have been on this whirlwind of self discovery and I wanted these photos to show my new found sense of confidence and beauty."  

---What was your favorite part of the experience?---

"My favorite part was getting all dolled up.  I felt like a movie star sitting in the high director-style chair while an artist created the perfect hair and makeup for the shoot.  I also really enjoyed getting to pick the music.  There's always that one song that you just come alive to, and I listened to that during my more sexy shots."

---How did you feel seeing your first images?---

"Absolutely astounded.  I was in awe of the lighting, color, and angles that seemed so effortless by Samantha, but showed up so beautifully on film.  I finally saw myself through everyone else's eyes and thought, "Wow, Melissa...you really did it.  You are beautiful and radiate confidence.  Where have you been all my life?""

---What advice would you give to others who may be on the fence about their own session?---

"Just.  Do.  It.  Don't wait until you lose those few extra pounds, or until you get your hair done next, or until you get your man's thoughts on it.  Just do this for you.  Once you see your photos, you will realize that you don't need to change anything.  You are beautiful and perfect just the way you are.  Only change for you, if you want to. Not for anyone else.  This session was better than any hour of therapy I've ever had."

              Alyssa and Anne wedded on a Saturday not so long ago. Though with nervousness towards the big day, they ascended with all the grace in the world. They created a love story I am eager to  share with all of you.

              I can tell that their  love will not stop here, with it they will create anything their hearts desire; They will find a place of home with room for celebration and rest. They will grow to tell of  happily ever after they have made as a family.

                As I look through these photos and see them smile, I smile too. I hope to give you also the chance to  witness the happiness they give their daughter, and praise these wonderful mothers on their perfect day.

                I love that they chose to incorporate sunflowers into their day because these two beautiful souls are as the sunflower, they will follow the warmth of the sun, and their love will blossom bigger and brighter by every passing summer.

So here I sit on a beautiful Summer Sunday to share a little shimmer. I KNOW, my opinion is biased but I truly believe you should always hire a professional for your event. Those moments that are the most intense are also often the most fleeting. By the end of this beautiful shower I had guests thinking this beautiful mommy-to-be and I had known each other for years ( but we had only just met in person that day!). 

Your photographer should just CLICK with you. The day is about YOU not them; they simply help facilitate the memories. They spend a good chunk of time in your personal space though so make sure that they are the best! This shower was really cool and I had to share with the internet world.

Many new moms are waiting to learn the gender of their baby , some new moms just hate the blue/pink "gender norms" .Whatever the reason gender neutral baby showers are making a very strong stand. This beautiful mom-to-be , opted to go with a nest theme. Handmade centerpieces and cute signs completed the feel. I don't know about everyone else but I just love little birdies , little bird cages, little nests; They just fill my heart with JOY!  

These fun moments you cannot make up ! Imagine how sad it would be if they did not have these memories to hold onto ? This beautiful shower took place at Trumpets at The Gate . If you are not familiar with it you should be! The staff was very sweet and accommodating and the venue was beautiful. Plus I may or may not have daydreamed about stuffing that GORGEOUS chair into my car ( Hello studio prop). The are the perfect venue for smaller events , weddings, showers dinner parties. Right on the water and some very beautiful sunsets.   

Congratulations Mommy and Daddy to-be. Your sweet little birdie will be arriving so soon. Thank you for letting us be a part of your big day <3

   Brittany has a knack for flare and an eye for quality. Every single center piece and little touch was DIY. Her vision brought to life with the help of her trusted bridesmaids. Their wedding was the perfect backdrop to celebrate their marriage of 5 years. Brittany and Steve married for love, in a little courthouse room ,5 years prior to this event. It was a long time coming to  celebrate their love and marriage with a community that loves and supports them.

   Their daughter Natalie was blessed to have a second Dad in the picture and Steve truly loves her as though she were his own. Their son Connor was the perfect ring bearer and best man. Shortly before their big day they shared the happy news that baby number 3 was on the way! This day felt like the perfect celebration of a happy, loving , and growing family. This loving event was not completely  without a heavy heart . Steve's dad recently passed  and Brittany's very near and dear twin aunts were smiling down from above. They had a few viewing points throughout the day, however, and even their own seats during the ceremony. Passing by their photographs your could feel their love for the sweet couple. This day filled our hearts with so much joy that when the night was over we wanted to shout it from the rooftops! Congratulations Brittany and Steve , your love is truly inspiring for us all <3

Venue : Emerson Park

Catering : H & J Hospitality

Centerpieces : DIY

Cake : Geddes Bakery

Flowers: Sam Rao

Rings: Jared

DJ: Digital Sound Entertainment

Makeup: Syracuse Makeup Artistry

Wedding Dress : David's Bridal

Bridesmaids Dresses: David's Bridal

       Every. Single. Wedding. goes about differently. I like to imagine being in the wedding industry is kind of like surfing. Each and every morning is a new day and you have no idea what the ocean is going to bring you, but you are so ready to have the salt in your hair and wind on your face. Rachel and Kevin's day was like heading to the beach and seeing perfect waves full of people just enjoying it. I could tell by the smiles on each and everyone of their guests faces that they touched the heart and lives of those around them so tenderly. Even in the short period of time I have known them its so apparent and clear to me how perfect they are for each other, and they had the perfect day to celebrate it. 

Wedding Dress: David's Bridal

Bridesmaid's Dresses: David's Bridal

Groom/Groomsmen Suits:Men's Wearhouse

Jewelry: Littman Jewelers

Cake Toppers: Etsy & DIY

Cake: Eat More Sweets

Church: Marcellus United Methodist Church

Reception Venue: Rosamond Gifford Zoo

Catering: Catering at the Zoo

   Hello everyone ! I hope that your summer is filled with bon fires and swimming holes , good food and even better people. My summer has been one of exploration. Our move to New York's Long Island has not been without its twists and turns and thankfully many new friends. My biggest goal this summer is to get back to my roots, explore what I love the most about it wedding photography, and  possibly most importantly  HOW  I can create the coolest experience ever for my clients. 

  That being said I have spent the better half of the last six months just meeting many new faces. Learning knew things and being constantly reminded that the world is so soo much bigger then the bubble we often find ourselves in. I think I may have found the best way to create some awesome life changing experiences: Share the awesomeness! I want to spend my summer sharing with all of you some industry secrets and awesome businesses that reflect the kind of service and style I strive to offer my own clients. Which brings us to one of my new favorite ideas. Meet The Pour Horse.

Image Courtesy of T Walker Photography 

Welcome to Texas' awesome mobile bar. Functionality meets style in this compact sleek design. I just had to know how Tassie came up with this idea!

"I have been bartending close to 8 years at many different establishments off and on throughout California. I had started doing little gigs here and there in the Los Angeles area but it was so saturated that I worked at a speakeasy, The Red Door, in Burbank to keep bills paid. When I moved to Texas, the hourly pay was so low that I told myself to book 3 months, that's all I needed in order to book 3 more months. I booked 3 months and I quit working for anyone else! I grew my business for a little less than a year before I stumbled across a caravan or a travel trailer that had been converted. I went to bed and dreamed of a horse trailer bar. It literally came to me in a dream! I started researching and saw that this was an idea someone else had in the U.K. But that is was lucrative, fun and just what I was looking for. "

Tassie what is your mission?

"This is something I've thought long and hard about... my mission is to create and inspire. Memories that are built off of extraordinary bar and beverage experiences."

 What service(s) or product(s) do you offer/manufacture?

We provide a whimsical and country chic inspired mobile horse-box bar for all occasions but also listen and work with clients to build extraordinary craft cocktails that play off the senses, memories and the simplicity of farm to glass with fresh in season juices and garnishes.

Image Courtesy of T Walker Photography 

Lastly why should brides choose you over the competition?

We treat every client as if they are my only client. We know how stressful planning can be so I am extremely responsive and offer many packages to work with every budget. We offer the best service in the industry with knowledgeable and experienced bartenders. We love teaching new bartenders but do not send them to an event unless they are up to speed with our seasoned staff. This can take months to a year of interning! 

"We also travel, The Pour Horse will travel anywhere in Texas. We even go outside of Texas to anywhere in the mainland United States for 1 month out of the year for those who do not typically have access to our concept. " The best part? Tassie and The Pour Horse are coming to New York State this summer ! 

Make sure that you keep up with The Pour Horse and all their travels by following them on Instagram and Facebook. You will be sure to see us together soon ;) 
 

Credits: Images Curtesy of The Pour Horse and T Walker Photography

       For this session I was super lucky to partner with some awesome local businesses and Stylize the session which is like a dream come true . ( Public service announcement : Ask your photographer to help you stylize, they will be honored and inspired and you might get something fresh and new!) 

       Danielle and Harry Just have the sweetest story , they met working for Citizens Campaign for the Environment. Danielle divulged that she has had a crush on Harry since she laid eyes on him . SHE asked him out on their first date , however he claims he was also literally just about to ask her but she beat him to the punch.

      Danielle's engagement Ring is  a family Heirloom, Harry called Danielle's mom on the Mother's day before proposing to ask for Danielle's hand in marriage.Mom cried (of course) and then insisted that the ring stay in the family , they worked together to have the ring resized in time for the big day! Danielle loves Woodstock NY so naturally with their love for hiking and being outdoors Harry felt the Kaaterskill Falls would make the PERFECT backdrop for his proposal. I am told though that it took awhile for Harry to work up the nerves to pop the question. " I had to go to the bathroom, and I was like ok we've been sitting here forever" Danielle recalls , just when she had enough of the scenery and was ready to make the hike back to the top she turns around to see Harry on one knee! "Will you be my adventurer for life?" he asks, and of course the rest is history.  

   Water Color wedding maps are the coolest new thing for weddings this year! We scored this awesome one from Bonnie Bryant Creative . You can connect with her across multiple social media platforms, from a dynamite Instagram, browse her already created items on super cute Etsy Shop or follow her Facebook . She does not disappoint and I'm constantly inspired by her eye for design. I love how she incorporated the lavender fields and the Riverhead Aquarium which is the venue that they have chosen for their big day! They love nature so much , and they took one step inside the venue and knew it would be the perfect place to celebrate their love <3 

  I've recently been obsessed with this polaroid trend . We could not resist but to include a quick snapshot to tide them over until their big reveal! And honestly who does not love a picture of a picture? 

 Seriously how perfect was this sign for this couple ? Christie Jones over at Swell Anchor Studio has us wanting everything colored varies shades of the Ocean and covered in calligraphy.She made this perfect mirror sign and engagement announcement with Danielle and Harry and their lavender dreams in mind.  Her Instagram will leave you feeling salt in your hair and sand in your toes. Still can't get enough ? Check out her Facebook. Her Oceany vibes may have caused us to wander a bit off the path and head to the Ocean. When you find a couple as in love as these two you  need to take a second and cool all that steaminess down in the icy cold waters. We wandered over to Wildwood State Park and listened to the storm roll in over the Ocean. We heard the rain long before it reached us. 

  The footless sandals have a sweet story as well. Danielle had mentioned off the cuff one day on how cute the concept of footless sandals were. Harry searched high and low to find the perfect pair for his sweetie on her birthday. So naturally she had to rock them at the beach ! Also can we just chat about how cool seaweed is ? Every time I photograph it I feel like it just brings so much to the table. Maybe I am secretly a mermaid.....we may explore that in the days to come. 

We love how romantic Danielle's hair was with the braids and wispy waves styled by Nicole Piazza. Plus that contour was on fleek with makeup artistry by Alice

Sarah's beauty both inside and out was magnified by her laughter as her favorite mascot Otto  made a surprise appearance just for her on their big day. Sarah and Andy's lighthearted and kind demeanor matched that of their families and the rest of their guest making this a truly beautiful wedding to photograph. The simple yet elegant touches from the babies breath to their charming wedding cake made Sarah and Andy's wedding a "picture perfect" tribute to their love.  

New life is hard and NOBODY enjoys diaper changes. Its the little things we take for granted that we look so fondly on later on in life. 

Big Brother is sooooo excited . You can just see the pride on his face!

Welcome Snuggle Bug <3

  First. The number one item that most don't consider bringing to their boudoir session is "The Little Black Dress". Boudoir has come a long way in recent years and has begun to blend some with Glamour. Most people have a negative connotation with Glamour photography but this is a conversation for another post! My favorite way to get my ladies warmed up in front of the camera is to start with the little black dress. You are already spending a good part of your day with me , we might as well get you a professional headshot or new Facebook profile picture. Theres no better way to begin a boudoir session then with a dress that you feel comfortable and sexy in. Choose a nice statement jewelry piece that you can use later on in your session, it will help tie the whole thing together especially great for wall art and in your album later. Always bring a pair of black pumps, they go with almost everything and will elongate your legs for those fun full body poses. Lastly consider your nails. French tips or light pinks are best. You want something neutral that will not be distracting from the main subject, which is you!

Recap:

• Little Black Dress (or any color you love)
• Statement Jewelry you can use again later
• Black Pumps
• Neutral Nails

Second. Now I have to say this is my FAVORITE. This is the best outfit for those who feel they have nothing to wear, because every single woman that I know has a favorite comfy sweater! Pair it with a comfy set of over the knee socks and (optional) cup of coffee and you look like sexy is your everyday self. This look is beautiful in studio as well as in home sessions. This outfit  is also the perfect opportunity to switch up your hair a bit with the half top knot thats uber trendy right now. Effortless beauty is the best kind!

Recap:

• Favorite Comfy Sweater
• (optional) Trendy Top Knot Hairstyle
• (optional) Cup O Joe

Third. If you are looking for a quick way to elevate your lingerie game you want straps. The More. The Better. But if you don't have strap you cannot go wrong with a lacy black two piece. This is also a perfect opportunity to include a sheer komono, or robe. Layers during your session will always be fun. You will have the opportunity to play with some of the off the shoulder sexy or spinning and playing with the extra fabric can translate into happy playful peppy photos.This is also a great opportunity to break out your nude heels. Nude heels are ESSENTIAL when planning your session. They elongate the leg while keeping the focus upward . We can also include again your statement jewelry piece from earlier.

Recap:

• Black Lacy Two Piece ( lots of straps optional)
• Sheer Komono or Robe
• Essential Nude Pumps
• Statement Jewelry Piece (from earlier) 

Like what you've seen here today? Join our private ladies only Facebook group!    Boudoir With Samantha B  Stay updated with new sessions and trends and see what other ladies have to say about Samantha B Studio. See you There!

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     I think back to a particular wedding I had he pleasure of photographing with Emily Elizabeth Studios. Your wedding photographer(s) spend the most time with you throughout the day as ANYONE else. A great wedding photographer will understand your needs throughout the big day. I can't tell you how many times a photographer with a safety pin saved the day! Here are a few snaps I caught of Emily for a few behind the scenes roles many people don't realizer their wedding photographer could be helping with . A great wedding photographer will try to go above and beyond to make your day special and running smoothly. 

With someone helping behind the scenes it so much easier to enjoy your big day the little things don't even matter anymore! 

Something else you want to consider when choosing your wedding photographer is their attention to detail. Now there are a few different areas where this is important. But lets talk right now about the details of your wedding day. I cannot tell you how many times a bride has said something along the lines of "wow I didn't even know that was happening" or "thank you so much for capturing that detail I can't find it anywhere". You will spend countless hours and dollars on every little detail of your big day. Notes and letters can become lost, center pieces are bulky and maybe you rented them. You might be surprised from the warm fuzzy feeling you get when you find a photograph of something small from your wedding day, maybe it was even something you had forgotten until that very moment. When choosing a wedding photographer for yourself consider their attention to detail in their images. 

Personality is oh such a big one. You should feel comfortable with your photographer. Maybe you are shy , but you trust them completely to help your personality shine through. They are fun and lighthearted and they make you feel lighthearted on the BEST DAY EVER. My clients love that we can be a little silly together and that silliness comes through in their memories. 

     Make sure that your photographer can tell your story. Your wedding should be a story from start to finish. Look for stories in your wedding photographers work. I love part of this Bride & Groom's story.

     In Poland, a central part of the wedding ceremony is the presentation of bread and salt to the newly-married couple. The parents of the couple present them with rye bread sprinkled with salt and a drink; the bread represents the symbolic hope that they will never go hungry; the salt reminds them that their joint life will have its difficulties and the drink represents the parents' wishes for health and happiness for the couple. The Bride and Groom are then presented with two glasses, one glass contains vodka, and the other only water. Of course the couple cannot tell which is which; the one who gets vodka will play a leading role in the new marriage.

   I think its safe to say our groom found the vodka :) 

     The last thing I'm going to give you when considering your wedding photographer is how you wish to be portrayed on your big day. Photographers have many different styles in terms of posing their subject . Some are very posed very formal. Others are very candid whatever you do naturally . I personally like to be somewhere in the middle. Guiding you through your own natural poses. Ask your photographer what their posing style is like and you will have a great idea on how your day will go. 

      If you keep these things in mind when meeting your potential photographer you are sure to find the perfect fit for you and your future spouse. Best wishes on your journey! 

These lovelies I had the benefit of photographing with Leanne Rose Photography.  This was my first experience at Apple Country Retreat and it was such an enjoyable one! If you are looking for rustic venues most definitely check them out!

Spring weddings are the best , the earth is just waking up and everything smells so wonderful and fresh. 

The love that a parent has for their child cannot ever be fully expressed. But just catching a small glimpse of it can fill your heart with so much love you just might burst! I LOVE capturing that emotion and bottling it up for you to treasure forever. 

She has the sweetest little family and it still warms my heart to think about the time I was able to spend with her in my little studio. 

Being prepped for her debut: 

This little girl was so new to the world and yet she was born and blessed with so much sass and personality , she was a little ham and was not afraid to show us her diva side.

We pooped her out real good and she was the sweetest little sleeping angel <3

The love and Joy this beautiful family filled my space with was palpable.

Thank You sweet baby Ayla!

These guys were so awesome to agree to a session this early ! And I love days full of love fun and laughter and they absolutely started MY day out in the best way possible. Quirky, feisty and awesome their session was a breeze.

We can't wait to celebrate with you guys on your big day!!!! And I could not be happier to share my wedding month with such an awesome couple <3

Thanks Again for being awesome!

Remington was so lucky to be born into such a good looking family ! The camera loved every moment with these fun easy going kids :) 

        Most people don't know but she basically walks right out of an episode of the Brady bunch and is the oldest of TEN. TEN. God bless her mother ( Who is also one of the sweetest most selfless human beings I have ever met) So when Amber asked me if I was up to the challenge of photographing their family of tweleve + a new addition (Welcome Morgan!) AND SOON TO BE 14 Congratulations LUKE + MORGAN for your precious little bundle of joy on the way; I HAD to jump to the challenge! Check out this BEAUTIFUL Family so near and dear to my heart <3

Now thats one good looking family right?!?!?!

And the parents that made it all happen!

The Sky was being pretty epic....

And Amber needed a few with Riley (who is much much bigger now)

Don't Forget the Epic jumping photos!

Welcome to the family Morgan! Congrats again to you and look can't wait to meet your little one ( I'm sure he will be just as photogenic as you guys)

Great Job Guys !!! Everyone pulled together and we got Fantastic results !!!

The girls had butterflies the guys were ready Waaaaay early ha!

And this guy was just really confused as to why he was sharing space with a bunch of women....

And these guys were just hungry 

 Check her out on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Corinafosterphotography

As well as Flickr:  https://www.flickr.com/photos/deuteronomyreader/

                 So when we pulled up to this cute little barn in Upstate New York and I got to meet Josh and Nicole for the first time I was basically on cloud 9. The weather was beautiful sunny and 75 with a slight breeze and barely any humidity (which is pretty impressive) you could just feel the buzz in the air and you knew everyone was going to have a great day.

This is where the magic happens ;-)

Their Whole party was the sweetest and seriously sometimes the best part of being the second shooter is getting to hang out with the guys, they typically tend to be the driving force of the fun on wedding days at this point they are all just happy to be there!

But the best part of a wedding for me is the alone time with the Bride and Groom and Nicole and Josh loved theirs too. Nothing quite like stealing a few moments alone on your special day <3 

Their dance floor was pretty awesome too nothing quite like dancing under a clear open sky :) 

I'd say a day well done for everyone involved.

There was a buzz in the air everyone was just so excited to be there. 

I could feel all the smiles and warm hearts when Marissa began the walk towards her groom.

The Ceremony was beautiful. 

There was a quick hair gelling and traffic stopping.

Congratulations Marissa and Noah! I wish you all the best :)

The love and passion that surround these two cannot be denied. I have to say that holding in the excitement until their Seattle WA Wedding next year will be one of the hardest thing I ever do in my life.

Love them.

Did I mention the crazy thunderstorm that was happening the moment our session was to begin?

I am so happy that these troopers held out because the sky and the light could not have turned out better for us.

Fairy Tale Right?