Blink Blog!

Ashley & Josh {Washington Club - DC}

2012-01-26T22:58:00.001-05:00

Ashley and Josh had a gorgeous wedding at the Washington Club in DC this past fall.

Rebecca Jo Dick of Blue Canary Events did a splendid job making the day easy, delightful and full of fun for bride, groom and the whole wedding party, guests, and family.

Here are some of my favorites from Ashley and Josh's wedding at The Washington Club!

And a big thank you to all the vendors who made Ashley and Josh's wedding so splendid.
Flowers - Petals Edge
Catering - Main Event
Music - James Smoot Reception and Jimi Smooth and the Hittme Band Reception
Ceremony and Cocktail Music - Dehrric Richburg
Hair and Makeup - Stacy Parault

A special thank you to my second shooter Aileen Reilly who made some gorgeous film images. Thank you for your talent Aileen!

Holga & Encaustic Photography Show/Sale at Columbia Heights Art Market!

2011-12-03T10:49:00.003-05:00

I am excited to let you all know that I will have a booth on December 10th at the Columbia Heights Art Market where I will be selling my Encaustic pieces and my Holga prints.

I am so excited to be a part of this event, I hope that you will come out and support local DC artists, plus, it's a great way to find a one of a kind holiday gift for everyone on your list!
But...the best news, I will be giving 10% off my encaustic pieces for the first 2 hours of the show on both 12/10 and 12/17. So come early to get the 10% off as well as cross of items on your holiday check list, that always feels great!
And so as to make all your art purchasing smooth and easy, I am happy to announce that I now take credit cards! Mastercard, Visa, Discover & Amex, I take 'em all.
Looking forward to seeing many of you on Dec 10th & 17th!

The market is located at Civic Plaza at 14th St NW & Park Road NW and goes from 9am-2pm.

If you can't make it to the art market or just want to know a little bit more about encaustic and holga art, I have an Etsy site where you can view and purchase some of my most recent art work!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/shodzic

The Columbia Heights Community Marketplace builds and strengthens the Washington, D.C.–neighborhood’s culture, community, and economy through local, sustainably produced food, entertainment, arts, and community service. It does this by educating and empowering community members, especially youth, to learn about and gain employment in local food, farming, entertainment, and community service. The result is a community full of healthy people eating healthy food grown near home and while putting their skills to work building a strong, local economy.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions : sarah@blinkdc.com

Holga Photography {Mike and Christina's Wedding Day}

2011-11-17T19:40:00.001-05:00

Mike and Christina's Holga Images are here!!

To see the full wedding blog post from their wedding at the Thomas Birkby House just click HERE!

You can click on the images to see them in their own screen.

Mike and Catherine {Engagement at Cabell's Mill}

2011-11-17T09:51:00.001-05:00

Cabell's Mill in October must be one of the most lovely places in Centerville, VA.

I met up with Mike and Catherine for their engagement shoot just a few weeks ago and we were giddy with our good luck seeing as how the weather could not have been more perfect!

I met with Mike and Catherine earlier this year and fell in love with them right away. Not only are they easy to talk to, they are both super adventurous, out doorsy and totally gorgeous!

Hello!! That's one heck of a combo.

Both Mike and Catherine are rock climbers and Mike is an Aborist. That was a fun added bonus durning the engagement session, a mini botany lesson, and of course there was some climbing involved too!

I know that their wedding next June at Cabell's Mill is going to be 100% amazing. Can't wait for 2012, but for now, here are some of my favorites from our fall photo shoot.

Brandi and Nathan {Corn Maze Engagement Session} Leesburg, VA

2011-11-09T11:44:00.000-05:00

This was my first ever photo shoot in a corn maze! Incidentally it was also the first time I did not get terribly lost, running in circles and ultimately having to be rescued! I have a bizarre knack for getting lost in mazes, the only ones I can safely navigate... well lets be honest... I'll get lost no matter what!

So it was a good thing I had Brandi and Nathan to lead the way through the 8' tall corn rows, not only did we find our way through and OUT, we had a great time creating some hilarious and lovely images.
The light in October is a photographers dream - we soaked it up and took serious advantage of it.

Here are my favorites from the shoot...

I was very impressed with the Temple Hill Corn Maze and Fall Festival. I highly recommend a visit next fall if you've never been!

Yvonne and Doug {Holga Photography} Glen Echo & Washington DC

2011-10-27T13:51:00.000-04:00

This year has been awesome in terms of my wedding clients wanting Holga photography as part of their photography packages.

When Yvonne and Doug had their engagement photo shoot on the Mall in Washington DC, I knew I had to whip out the Holga at least a couple times.
Then of course the wedding at Glen Echo just screams for Holga!!

Here are my three favorite from both the engagement and wedding.

You can click on the images to see them a bit larger

Christina and Mike :: Sneak Peak :: Wed at Thomas Birkby House Leesburg, VA

2011-10-19T23:33:00.000-04:00

It's been a fall wedding extravaganza!!!

Here are a few favs from Christina and Mike's beeeeeautiful wedding at the Thomas Birkby House, which I fell in LOVE with by the way.

More to come + Holga!

Irene and Dan ::: National Geographpic ::: Sixth&I Historic Synagogue

2011-10-17T12:57:00.000-04:00

Where to begin about the uber fabulous Irene and Dan!? They are pure awesomeness and I am in love with them! I am not ashamed to admit my adoration, you would too if you had the chance to spend time with them.

Working with Irene and Dan was a total photography dream for me because not only did I get to photograph such a adorable couple, who incidentally place a very high importance on photography and art (love it), but shoot at National Geographic and the Historic Sixth and I Synagogue... hello!
I was as giddy as a school girl I tell you!

I could gush about how hilarious, stylish, creative, thoughtful, spunky, and lovable they are, but I also realize, this is a photography blog... less words, more photos!
And there really is no better way to get a true sense of how super fantastic this wedding day was than to tell the story through images.

A huge thank you to Irene and Dan for sharing their vision with me and trusting me to create images that would represent who they are and their stupendous wedding day!

MWA** To you both!

And to all the amazing vendors that made Irene and Dan's wedding day so spectacular, thank you!

Coordinator - Pauvane Pearson - {invited} Special Events

Florist - Amaryllis Inc.

DJ - Keenan Orr

Klezmer Band - Machaya Klezmer Band

Synagogue - David - 6th and I

Venue - Rita Dooly - National Geographic Society

Videography - Brandon Bloch

Hair & Makeup - Nicole Lueschow

Sneak Peak Irene and Dan ::: National Geographic :: Sixth & I Synagogue

2011-10-11T21:39:00.001-04:00

Irene and Dan - 9/24/2011

Such an amazing couple, such a stupendous wedding and damn did we have ourselves some serious fun!!!

A quick sneak peak at a few show stoppers from Irene and Dan's wedding at the Sixth and I Historic Synagogue along with tremendous reception at National Geographic.

Can we say... photographer's DREAM job!!!

More to come + Holga!!

Rebirth Photography Retreat 2012 :::Registration Opens 9/20:::

2011-09-13T12:41:00.001-04:00

Rebirth Photography Retreat is happening once again! Please join us in the Mississippi Delta April 1st - 6th for an amazing journey to nurture your self and explore who you want to be as a photographer and artist.

We will open registration IN ONE WEEK. 9AM, CST, Tuesday, September 20. We will only be accepting 12 registrants (though we will have a waiting list). All you'll need is $600 per registrant to reserve your spot. Your remaining balance will be broken into two payments after that. You can find out more here: http://rebirthworkshops.com/blog/?page_id=3416

And finally, a little video we put together with highlights from our 2011 retreat! Click below!

Etsy Site is Live ::: Encaustic Wax Art & Holga Photography :::

2011-09-12T15:06:00.002-04:00

I am just thrilled to be able to share the Grand Opening of my new Etsy Online Store Front!

Over the past year, I have been compiling my photography work in hopes of getting ready to launch my Etsy store front. So today, I am thrilled to announce that my online Etsy store front is LIVE!
I will be selling my Holga prints as well as my Original Encaustic Wax Photographs and Collages. I hope that you will spread the work to all of your friends and family who enjoy creative art work.

I will be continually updating my Etsy site as I make new Holga and Encaustic pieces.
Any Holga or Digital images you see posted on my Facebook, Website or here on the Blog can all be turned into commissioned Encaustic works of art, so feel free to contact me for more information any time.

Some of you may already know about my recent venture into the wonderful world of Encaustic wax painting, but for those who haven't this will be your first time seeing the work I've created. I have fallen in love with the process, as I feel it lends itself wonderfully to my Holga work.
Both mediums are imperfect in nature as well as encourage rule breaking! For me, as an artist there is no better freedom than knowing, it's all about breaking rules and that there are no mistakes.

I think Susan say it best when she talks about her encaustic work;
Encaustic is an ancient medium of painting with wax. These pieces explore the application of wax onto photographic images and incorporate them into unique pieces of art. These encaustic works utilize the tactile quality and exploratory nature of an ancient artistic medium. The encaustic medium is flexible and multidimensional. Its unique characteristics lend a transformative, dynamic, spontaneous and experimental approach to photographic techniques and imagery.
- Susan Joan Schenk

Thank you to all of you who've supported this new venture in my photography career, I am excited to see where this next phase takes me.
-Sarah

Erin, Dave and Jax! {Engagement Photos - Arlington, Virginia}

2011-08-16T18:28:00.001-04:00

Erin, Dave, Jax and I met up for an early morning shooting in Arlington just a couple weeks ago.
Trying to beat the August heat in DC is rough, but early morning shoots (and we're talking 7am folks) seems to be the way to go.
The light was lovely and the park around Pentagon City was a perfect location to let this adorable little puppy run!

We decided to do Erin and Dave's engagement session in two segments in order to take photos with Jax while he is still a puppy. I love this idea, and think it worked out tremendously well. We will get together closer to their 2012 wedding date to do more photos of just the two of them, but I will have to say, Jax kinda stole the show!
Erin and Dave clearly are smitten with this adorable pooch, and it really shines through!

Blink Photography Featured on MyPicDaddy.com {Washington DC Holga Photography}

2011-08-12T10:12:00.000-04:00

I had the great fortune to be interviewed by Armin DeFiesta as one of the Featured photographers on MyPicDaddy.com!

I've known Armin for years and am always impressed not only at his passion, but also his drive in seeking out new and creative projects. Armin is a amazing photographer but he is also a super savvy business man too.
In the summer of 2009 Armin ventured into the world of video, putting together a clever "reality series" focused on photographers called ShutterWars. Shutterwars had it's first "sizzle reel" in the spring of 2010 and then launched it's web series in the winter of 2010. You can watch the entire series on the Shutterwars.com website.

On the heels of Shutterwars airing, Armin's brain child -MyPicDaddy was born. This new blog is focused on reaching out to the new and budding photographer in hopes of providing them with solid information about starting on a solid photography career.

But I think Armin says it best when describing his vision for MyPicDaddy.com:
"The purpose of this blog is to educate and inspire new digital camera owners, from smartphone users to digital SLR (DSLR) shooters, I enjoy sharing tips and techniques with others so they can get the most bang for their buck.
From pictures of our kids, to amazing vacation destinations, photography is one of the simplest ways to document everything around us. Just look around and you’ll see many people using smartphone cameras and DSLRs. But with so many choices in equipment and accessories to choose from, it’s easy to drown in the deep sea of information.
I hope this blog inspires you to explore your mind’s eye without going too over-budget. Let’s face it, photography can get expensive. But after 10 years as a photographer, I continue to learn new things and ways to save time and money and would like to share my knowledge and experience with you. From using natural light to more complex lighting setups, to understanding exposure and how your DSLR works, this blog is here to help you navigate the world of photography.

A very big thank you to Armin for coming out to the "studio" in McLean.
I loved being able to talk about my passion for Holga photography, and my own new venture into Encaustic photography as well.

The following was taken directly from MyPicDaddy.com

Sarah Hodzic | Blink Photography | www.blinkdc.com | photo by Will Jacks

Today’s featured photographer is Sarah Hodzic of Blink Photography. Based in the DC area like me I have known Sarah for several years now. She truly continues to grow as an artist blending film and digital formats resulting in spectacular imagery. One her most recognizable styles comes from her fine art work using Holga cameras. By combining her photographic skills with the unique results from the low-fidelity Holga, Sarah produces some of the most creative and bold photos I’ve seen that include artistic interpretations of vignetting, distortion, blur and light leaks. As you browse through her work you will find some remarkable, impressionistic and surrealistic scenes of landscapes, still life and portraits.

I had the privilege of spending time with Sarah at her home in McLean, VA so I could learn more about the Holga, her Encaustic work, and what’s in her camera bag. One thing I did learn is she is a rule breaker. While she can easily document a wedding with amazing photos, or cover relief efforts in a far away place, Sarah takes things to the next level deploying her creative eye through film and her Holgas. Unlike digital SLRs where you have the luxury of firing off multiple frames and seeing your results on the LCD screen, film cameras like the Holga require careful thought into each frame. There’s no delete button and there’s no LCD screen. You have to have a real understanding of composition, light and exposure in order to maximize your efficiency with the camera.

Let’s not forget that Sarah does shoot digital SLRs, her main body is the Canon 5D and tells me her workhorse lens is the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM Telephoto Zoom Lens. I have to agree, that is a great lens!

But in the end, the Holga has become her favorite camera today. It comes as no surprise that she has won awards for her work with what is often called a toy camera. Sarah�s work with the Holga has appeared online with Toycamera, PhotomediaCenter, LightLeaks Magazine, ErieTimes-News SHOWCASE along with being published in the new toy camera book, ToyCam by The Toy Camera Book Team. Along with online and book publications Sarah’s Holga work has also won several awards, including taking first place in 2009 Holgapalooza and Best in Show – PhotoMedia Center’s 2009 Holga 3.0. Most recently Sarah had a solo show in LA at the Petter Fetterman Gallery showcasing her images from her trip to Jacmel Haiti. Her images were sold to benefit the children in the surrounding township.

If you’d like to get to know Sarah better, come to one her Pictage User Group meetings that she leads for the DC market. In the meantime, here she is giving you a glimpse into her world. We had a lot of fun making this short video. And if you happen to dig the cool Go | BEE Hip Clutch that Sarah shows you in the video, get $15 off your purchase with the code “TWEET” at checkout! Visit Go | BEE for more information.

If you have any questions or comments, please leave them in the COMMENT section. Thanks for watching!

Becky and Brian {Married - Glen Echo Maryland}

2011-07-24T12:41:00.001-04:00

Where to begin...
There aren't enough kind words to express my utter joy and love when working with Becky and Brian. Whether it was meeting in Old Town Alexandria for engagement photos at the Torpedo factory or photographing the wedding day at Glen Echo Park, the images we created together are hands down some of my favorite portraits I've made in a while.
I often think when looking over my wedding work, what makes a great image, and what I've come to realize is, it's all about the connection between the bride and groom.
The photographer of course (hopefully) has the vision, but you can't create true authentic moments, those just happen and we are there to document that which brings people together on a day such as this.

Becky and Brian's adoration for one another shone through every single detail of the wedding day, but don't just take my word for it...

First Look

B&B

Groomsmen & Girl

Bridesmaids

The Wedding Party

Ceremony Time

The Carousel

Reception in the Bumper Car Pavilion

After getting to spend so much time with Becky and Brian, I truly believe they are meant to have a very long and joyful life together, and I feel so grateful to have been a part of the beginning of their adventure into married life.

And to everyone who made the day as amazing it was, thank you all!

William Gaff from Humanstory Films- videography

Evan Reitmeyer from mydeejay.com- deejay

Shelly Bagdasian- florist

Jessica Lynn Mann from Social Scene - event coordination

Star Catering (managed by Sandy Jones)

Buzz Bakery- cake (part of Star Catering)

Frost Lighting- lighting

DC Rentals- linens, tables, chairs, etc.

Amie Decker from Amie Decker beauty - makeup

Kelley Small from Amie Decker Beauty- hair

Bridals By Lori- dress (designer is Judd Waddell)

JCrew- groom's attire

Emily Mah Rogers- site manager for Glen Echo

Invites: Echo Letterpress

Pennants- sewn by the bride!

Holga image soon!!

Blink Photography Featured on MyDeeJay.com

2011-07-19T14:12:00.002-04:00

I had the great fortune to be interviewed by Evan and Jennifer Reitmeyer of MyDeeJay the other week.
Many of you may already know of MyDeeJay... 1. Because they are one of the BEST Djs in the DC Metro area and 2. Because I always recommend that my clients check them out first if they are looking for a DJ for any event!

A huge thank you to MyDeeJay once again for having Blink Photography on your blog!

To read the full feature on MyDeeJay's blog, click HERE

Becky and Brian {Engagement Photos Old Town Alexandria, Torpedo Factory}

2011-07-01T12:02:00.018-04:00

Becky and Brian's engagement session at the Torpedo Factory was a great indicator that their wedding in June at Glen Echo Park was going to be totally and completely amazing!

Becky and Brian are such a down to earth couple, with a flare for artistic expression. Not only is this wedding going to be a blast, I just know it's going to be a visual treat! :)

For their engagement session, we wondered around Old Town Alexandria early this spring. All the trees and flowers coming into bloom seemed like a perfect metaphor for the journey Becky and Brian are about to embark on.

Plus, we just had a damn good time!

A few Holga images for fun...

Andrews Air Force Air Show {As seen through a Holga}

2011-06-20T16:15:00.005-04:00

This past May I had the opportunity to see my very first air show at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland.

I figured this would be a perfect opportunity to dust off the Holga and create some really interesting images. I had not picked up my camera since March when I was in Mississippi for our Rebirth Retreat.

I often find I will have a few months where I am creating a lot of work, shooting almost every week, sometimes daily, and then suddenly months have flown by and I've not touched my camera.

I realize that my creative mind often needs the down time to regenerate as it were, but when 3 months go by and I haven't picked up the Holga, I get a bit antsy.
So it was great to not only have the motivation of shooting some of the most amazing old planes I've seen, but know that I was feeding a part of my creative spirit.

Some of the images are very much "works in progress". I find that the post processing work is never done. Much like being in the dark room of the old days, there is always more dodging and burning to be revisited as well as toning etc.

I do want to give a big thank you to my dear friend John who got me to get off my keister and come shoot. I not only got the opportunity to get up close and personal with those amazing air planes, John, who is also a pilot, gave us all quite and education.

It was a good day all around!
Here are some of my favorites, I am also including non-holga images (yes I do shoot with a dslr too), just to see the contrast of digital vs. holga.

Holga...

Digital...

John was very proud of his plane. I loved learning all about the operations of this HUGE air craft. Thanks again John for the fun day, and the cool education.

And this is me standing in front of an old 1940s plane that shared many of the same operation/weapons features of the RAF's Lancaster plane which is what my grandfather flew in WW2.

Blink DC Featured on Capitol Romance Blog | A blog for the off beat in DC

2011-04-13T13:13:00.000-04:00

I recently was approached by Bree Ryback of Capitol Romance asking if she could feature one of my weddings on the Capitol Romance blog. Yes! Of course (was my response)!

I was honored and excited because I love when I find folks here in DC area reaching out to the non-mainstream couples looking to have a more DIY wedding.

Bree approached me when she spotted my Holga work from Jeff and Amanda's wedding which I shot at The Morrison House in Alexandria in December. I love when folks get excited about the Holga, not just because I have an all consuming love affair with this crazy plastic camera, but also because I love the idea of my couples getting excited about collaborating with me to create artful pieces of their weddings and engagements.

So, keep your eye on Bree and her blog. There is a lot of great information out there and she is actively gathering it all to help ease the planning process as you navigate creating your wedding day!

You can view the full blog post HERE.

From The Rubble Rises, A School | Jacmel, Haiti | Education

2011-03-23T22:56:00.002-04:00

Ariel of the new school campus.

Below, the cleared grounds from this past August.

A school, a beautiful, safe, welcoming school, has risen from the rubble and chaos which has inflicted the city of Jacmel, Haiti after the earthquake in 2010.
I realize that sounds terribly dramatic, but if you all could see this place, you would feel and experience the intensity of this accomplishment!

Next to witnessing live birth, this is the most amazing miracle I have ever seen.
I don't like to use that word often, as I feel it gets thrown around and the significance is lost... but this school in Jacmel is nothing short of a miracle.
Operation USA and Honeywell along with the amazing support and hard work from the people of Jacmel, have come together in such a touching way to create Ecole Nationale Jacob Martin Henriquez.

It was a world-wind of a trip. Three days of shooting and preparation for the CEO of Honeywell to visit the school and see the progress for the first time. Along with kids seeing the new school grounds, touring the computer lab, playing on the play ground, basketball court and soccer field... it was all very emotional.

In eight short months, Honeywell and Operation USA were able to create a inspirational place for learning. I can't wait to see the children as they embark on their first day of school which should happen in early May. I hope to continue to hear about how everyone has settled in and see the school is running on it's own steam. This place will house 400 young students as well as offer adult education, and I could sense the excitement and appreciation from all the children and adults that were there to celebrate this huge occasion!

There is hope here. Which I feel is better experienced through images...

The whole Ventana crew along with a few Honeywell folks leaving at the crack of dawn from Ft Lauderdale, FL. There was only one small snag, all the gear and supplies... yep, about 800lbs over weight!

But we eventually made our way to Haiti.

Flying out of Port au Prince.

Nothing better than this view from one of the classrooms.

The were two very old canons, one from the US and one that is most likely British that were originally on the site. New pedestals were made and the larger of the two canons was going to have to be moved. The man you see in the photo above (looking straight at the camera) took on the canon project as his own personal mission.

It took a few tries, but they were finally able to hoist that monster on to it's new foundation.

I couldn't get over how much work, like digging this trench for wiring was all done by hand.

There are murals planned for the whole campus. This one is the first and is part of the Haitian flag.

One of the small playgrounds for the younger children.

Don't ask me why, but I was fascinated by how much paint went into this project. This was only a small portion of the 5 gallon paint bucket lids that were all around the grounds.

This was one of the best painter outfits I've seen. A true work of art, very Pollock inspired!

This may be my favorite image from the whole bunch. With all the milling about all over the campus, I was surprised to wonder into this school room to such a peaceful scene. One man alone, painting.

All the desks were handmade by a local Jacmel man. His craftsmanship was just beautiful.

A view from the roof looking out over the whole campus.

The same vantage point is seen in the image below of the empty grounds taken this past August.

Susan Fassig of Operation USA giving a fantastic interview explaining how this school will be able to give back to the whole community. Susan is one of the most selfless, dedicated people I have ever met.

Steeve Texas who is also working with OPUSA, is the man who gets things done! This school project has been his whole life this last year or so, and it shows. Again, tremendous dedication and a huge heart. I feel lucky to have gotten to know so many amazing people.

A view of the new soccer field.

Susan and Steeve. Good people. Such good people.

Some of the school children getting to visit the campus for the first time. I could stare at their beautiful faces all day long, listen to their voices singing and laughing, it does a heart good that's for sure.

This young man was so special to talk with. He was the winner of the t-shirt contest that Honeywell put together. The children were to draw a picture of the school and explain what the new school would mean to them. One of the most touching things he said was, he felt he would finally be able to really learn because this school made him feel safe.

All the children came outside to line up as the CEO of Honeywell had a quick fly over to see the school grounds from above. It was a really touching moment to see all the children waving and clapping as the plan few overhead.

A quick rest after a FULL day, and here I find myself lost for words. This trip, this place. It can't not change you.

To read about my first trip to Haiti this past August, click HERE.

Heading back to Haiti | With education there is hope

2011-03-07T23:51:00.000-05:00

Ocean view from our hotel in Jacmel

I am heading back to Jacmel Haiti today, and I find myself thinking back to the journey in August of last year.
I left Jacmel deeply effected. It was hard not to form strong bonds to everyone working on this project, it takes a special person to be so dedicated to a huge undertaking such as this, and I met at least 5 of them. But I was also keenly aware that I was a bit fearful, and sadly, without a whole lot of hope for this land.

However, as I find myself reflecting back I can see that my lack of hope maybe had more to do with the "shell shock" of what I was seeing and experiencing for the first time, and less to do with the reality of Jacmel and the deeper spirit of the people and the beauty that live there.

Anyway, I am sure I will reflect more as we fly into Haiti and over the once empty school grounds which now house brand new earthquake proof school buildings ready to educate over 700 Hatian children a year!

I can't wait to share the progress and celebration with all of you who have supported my work on this project, and who have also so generously contributed to the children of Jacmel.
I am taking you all with me as I fly. You are all on my shoulders, supporting, encouraging and championing these children, and I will make sure they know they are loved and valued.

Here's to ‘Ecole Nationale JM Henriquez, nothing short of amazing and I see now that hope is alive and well.
First day of school... March 14th!

Big thank yous to Operation USA, Honeywell and Ventana Productions for having me there to document and be a part of this amazing accomplishment.

Stay tuned for photos of the grand opening.

Empty school grounds.

Ariel view of the cleared school grounds and surrounding neighborhoods in Jacmel

Beth and Adam | Georgetown Engagment Photography | Washington DC

2011-02-23T00:03:00.002-05:00

This past Sunday was a treat and a total riot when spending the day with Beth and Adam in Georgetown for their engagement session.

I met Adam and Beth just a few short weeks before the engagement session. We met to talk about wedding photography, and along with that very important subject, we found ourselves swooning over Beth's killer boot purchase from DSW! Heeelllooo, who doesn't like a great deal on a hot pair of kicks!?

I knew that Beth and Adam's session was going to be a blast, and a blast it was. Our one hour session turned into 2.. then 3. We were having such a great time and there are so many fantastic spots in Georgetown to utilize, so we did.
I will have to out Adam a bit here though...
Adam was just a tad nervous about the photo shoot. Rightfully so. I myself was a nervous wreck when I had head shots done this past fall, so much so that it drove me to drink! Ahh a little alcoholic libation to ease the nerves. So working off my own experience, and since we were down on the Georgetown water front I turned to Adam and said, "do you want to get a drink, it might help ease the nerves a bit."
To which I see Adam's eyes widen to the size of saucers and an very emphatic "YES!.... PLEASE" rang through the crowds. There is no better way to take the edge off I have to say.

We had a great time sitting on the water front, shooting the breeze getting to know one another a bit.
Then we were off!
I loved that they were up for any photo adventure that presented itself. One of which included a walk up to Georgetown Cupcake where the line was at least a half mile long (I swear). So since cupcakes were a bust, a normal second choice would be... the Exorcist Stairs!!

Thank you Beth and Adam for being so much fun and for letting me play.
The wedding day will be a total blast, I just know it!

One of my favorites... the birds, come on... how cool is that!

Holga and the Santa Monica Pier | California, LA

2011-02-21T11:51:00.001-05:00

I had the great fortune of spending some time in California in December where I had a photography show in LA at the Peter Fetterman Gallery.
It was an amazing few days working to pull together the final pieces of the show which was a benefit for the school children of Jacmel Haiti.
A few of you may know that I had the honor of being part of the crew that went down to Jacmel last August to document the ground breaking of a school that was being built there.
While we were there I had passed on the idea of possibly hanging a show of the images I had created to see if we couldn't raise some funds and of course more awareness of the total devastation that the Haitian people are still dealing with.

Long story short, the amazing folks at Operation USA thought it was a great idea, and made it happen!
So in early December I flew out to LA to be part of this awesome event, and AWEsome it was!
However, this blog post is about Holga work, so I'll fill you in next time about my time in LA for my first photography show.

I of course do not travel without my Holga, and the whole time I was planning my trip I knew exactly where I wanted to do some shootin'!
The Santa Monica Pier has held some good memories for me in the past. It was in fact the first place I went when I was considering a move to CA from VA back in 2005.
It also happens that back in 2005 Santa Monica was the setting of a hilarious first date, not to mention a a chance meeting with an old friend, and the start of a new dream... this was a place where things just seemed happen.
So, I hoped going back in 2010 that Holga magic was in the stars for me. And I think maybe, just maybe I was right.

Here are my favorites from my time at the Santa Monica Pier in CA.
(click on any of the images to see them larger)

Rebirth | A Photography retreat for creative souls | Mississippi Delta

2011-02-04T10:23:00.002-05:00

Holga pano - Sarah Hodzic Rebirth 2010

Many of you may remember, last year I had the privilege of working with two gifted
photographers, Chris Williams and Will Jacks on a creative collaboration - Rebirth Workshops.
Sadly my crazy knee injury prohibited me from playing as much of an active roll as I would have liked, but this year is different!

I am thrilled to be part of the three rebirthateers, working to putting together a thoughtful, and hopefully life changing artist's retreat in the Mississippi Delta.
Our goal, is provide a place for artistic exploration. We learned a lot from our time at the Shack Up Inn in 2010 and are confident that not only can we reproduce the excitement and creative freedom from last year, but also introduce some new elements to really push our artists to a place where they may not have gotten on their own.

We began planning for Rebirth in December of 2009. Interestingly, the idea we had has morphed a bit. The spark is still the same as the first day we decided to move forward with this idea. The structure and purpose has changed, though. And perhaps that’s a very natural progression of any project upon which we endeavor.
Our initial thoughts of hosting a workshop have eased into a realization that what we really offer is more of a retreat. The broad concept of giving artists room (and time) to explore has narrowed into giving them those things, but with a purposeful structure that will further enhance creative pursuit. There is no specific skill we are hoping to teach — at least as it pertains to the craft of photography. This is not a workshop geared to teach lighting skills. It is not a marketing seminar. It is not a workflow and processing class.
Though we do suspect you’ll come away with a broader understanding of all of those things.
We want to help you learn to tell whatever story it is you are meant to tell.
We plan to do this by first and foremost creating an environment of access. We want to give you access to tools, to technique, to literature and film, to people, to time — so that you can take the things you need in order to focus on a story that is uniquely yours.
As photographers, or job is to communicate. It doesn’t matter if you are developing a fine art project, completing a journalistic presentation, or tackling a commercial assignment. The better (and more interestingly) you create your work the more likely you are to achieve the results you seek.
- An excerpt from the Rebirth blog, for more information, click HERE

If you are an artist who's focus is photography, or maybe you know someone who is in need of a creative retreat, we would love to have you all join us March 27th - April 1st!
Our retreat would not be the same without the passion, desire to learn and creative enthusiasm that our attendees contribute.
Registration is now open, so don't wait! You can also find more information about getting yourself to Rebirth and Mississippi HERE!

I met some amazing people last year, ones that have directly and indirectly altered my own path in my photography career. As I watch the spots fill up for this year, I am thrilled to see new faces as well as familiar ones!
The one major take away from the retreat last year... what we can learn from one another is far beyond what we could learn on our own.

See you in Mississippi!

Will Jacks, Sarah Hodzic, Chris Williams at The Shack Up

A few shots of my own from time spent in the Mississippi Delta in 2010

Last year's attendees!

Wedding Wire | Blink Photography 2011 Bride's Choice Winner!

2011-01-25T10:32:00.000-05:00

Washington DC- WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, is thrilled to announce Blink Photography has been selected to receive the prestigious annual WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 for Photography!

Recognition for the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 is determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from over 750,000 WeddingWire newlyweds. Our past clients are among those that shared their experiences on WeddingWire, the largest wedding review site in the nation.

Blink Photography stands among the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire community, representing quality and service excellence within the wedding industry. Awards were given to the top wedding professionals across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, and were based on the overall professional achievements throughout the past year.

“WeddingWire is honored to celebrate the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire community,” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “With the annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program, WeddingWire has the unique opportunity to recognize the best wedding professionals across the US and Canada. We applaud Blink Photography for their professionalism and dedication to enhancing the wedding planning experience last year.”

We are happy to announce that Blink Photography is among the very best for Wedding Photography within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites WeddingWire, Martha Stewart Weddings, Project Wedding and Weddingbee. We would like to thank our past clients for nominating us to receive the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011.

For more information, please visit our WeddingWire Storefront today at www.weddingwire.com/blinkdc.
For more information on the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.

Amanda and Jeff | Holga in Old Town Alexandria | Morrison House Wedding

2011-01-17T10:26:00.000-05:00

Once again I had the great fortune of having clients who were ready, willing and totally excited to have Holga images created on their wedding day!
I had just finished up Amanda and Jeff's portraits when I realized I had almost forgotten about my trusty plastic side-kick!
So with cat like reflexes I pounced for my camera bag, exchanged my digital for my Holga and began shooting as the light was quickly fading.

I knew that I would be lucky if I even got 2 good shots, because as anyone who has ever shot a Holga, you know that it doesn't like low light (unless you're shooting with b/w, which of course I wasn't).
Of course, the Holga is always surprising me, and while the light was tricky, and the images are dark, they are still haunting and thoroughly engaging...if I do say so myself.

Thank you once again to Amanda and Jeff for being superb clients and allowing me a ton of creative freedom!

Amanda and Jeff | Married at Morrison House | Alexandria, VA

2011-01-04T22:19:00.004-05:00

My last wedding of the 2010 season could not have been more perfect. Amanda and Jeff were married December 11th at the Morrison House in Old Town Alexandria.

Jeff and Amanda had their engagement photo session this fall at my cottage in McLean, VA. I was over joyed to be able to do a photo shoot at my home, and knew right away that we were going to have a blast at the wedding in December.
Well, Jeff and Amanda did not disappoint. The wedding at the Morrison House was elegant, warm, intimate, joyful, and very touching. The day started off with Amanda and her girls getting ready at the Morrison House. This is of course one of my favorite parts of the day, nothing better than girl time before the big event!
My trusty and ever amazing second shooter Kip Pierson was off to work his magic with Jeff and his crew, and then it was time for the first look!
The first look is my second most favorite part of the wedding day. The first look gives the bride and groom time to spend alone together before the day gets into full gear. It's always moving, often hilarious and well, it's an all around special time for everyone.

The Morrison House was all decked out for the holidays which wove in beautifully with Amanda and Jeff's theme. Not to mention the staff was fantastic, food was AMAZING and everything went off without a hitch.
One of the best parts of the night was in lieu of dancing, there was a lavish four course meal with wine paring and during that time the floor was open for toasts. I loved that many of their friends and family got up to share fun stories of Jeff and Amanda, it was yet another touch that made this night so personal.

As the night wound to a close, the rain began to fall. Our pre-planned walk down King St to a favorite bar/restaurant, O'Connell's where there was to be a rockin' after party was almost nixed. Bravely Amanda and Jeff along with a few friends took to the streets of Old Town Alexandria with no fear of the wet stuff. We ended up having the most divine photo shoot along the tree lined streets in the soft rain, which ended up producing my most favorite (and dare I say, spectacular) shots of the night! To think, we almost decided against the walk.

I could not have asked for a better couple to end the 2010 wedding season with.
Amanda and Jeff, thank you for being wonderfully sweet, relaxed and all around kick butt clients.
May your married life be one fantastic journey together.

The stunning bouquets and all the flower arrangements were done by Growing Wild Floral Company. I urge you to check them out if you are planning a wedding, or for any event where you would like to have show stopping floral arrangements! I will be recommending them to all of my brides from here on out.

Could she be more stunning folks?

Amanda's makeup was flawless. My dear friend and makeup artist Sally Sagarese is my go to gal for all makeup needs! I like to dream up special occasions to get my makeup done by Sally because I always feel at my most fabulous when she works her magic!

I still can't believe Amanda's florist was able to find such scrumptious white peonies in the beginning of December!

I was lucky enough to have photographed Jeff's sister Kelley's wedding at the Belmont Country Club in Ashburn in October of 2008. I loved that I had the chance to see not only Kelley and Ross once again, but all of Jeff's family. They are just the sweetest and funniest group of folks, like I said before... we had a blast!

I loved Amanda and Jeff's invitations. Their designer was so fantastic, and extremely helpful. I was able to get the graphic to use for their photo guest book, which went seamlessly with all the wedding details! I will be recommending Anne Marie Purdy for all my future clients invitation and printing needs.

Mr. Richard Barry was the musician extraordinaire of the night. I've had the great pleasure of shooting a few weddings with Rich this past year. His classical guitar is simply divine which causes him to be in high demand through out the year. And every time I hear him play I understand why.

Mr. and Mrs. Chin, those smiles are contagious! I only wish they had 10 more children so that I could photograph more weddings with this wonderful family!

An open floor for toasting the bride and groom accompanied the nights four course meal. So many hilarious moments, lots of clinking glass in celebration... I really do believe everyone had a great time.

One of the sweetest moments of the night, a private first dance while the rest of the wedding guests were finishing dinner. Richard Barry was serenading our newlyweds as they danced to a classical guitar version of the Dixie Chicks. This was one of the highlight of the night for me, did I mention is was crazy sweet!?

Rain be damned! Kip and I had been using off camera lighting for most of the night while shooting inside the Morrison House, and I gotta say, it sure did come in handy on our walk making rain look like snow!

Even good ole Saint Nick got in on the photography fun!

Amanda and Jeff you are such amazing people. I feel lucky to know you both!
And here I say a fond farewell to the 2010 wedding season. I look forward to the people I will meet and come to call friends in 2011.

Gingerbread Party | How the Gingerbread Holga Came to Life

2010-12-23T10:14:00.000-05:00

By now you have seen the magic of the GTLR Holga, and I am sure you have been dying to see how it all happened.

Here are the behind the scenes photos, where you will get the inside scoop on how these amazing gingerbread creations came to life.

Or... maybe these are just photos of us all goofing off.

You be the judge.

Joe working on the exact measurements to scale for my gingerbread Holga.

Yep, that puppy was to SCALE!

Mark is delicately constructing the Sear's Tower.

His lovely wife Ali cheers him on as he begins construction.

Here we have the many pieces that go into making a (to scale) gingerbread twin lens Holga.

Ahh the squeezing of the icing, seems that Andrew finds this very thrilling!

Sean is loading up on the nutritious veggie chili. It's a little known fact, but veggie chilli is the food of gingerbread champions.

Ali creating small woodland creatures for.... the Sear's Tower?

It's ALIVE... It's ALIVE!!

Andrew has made the call for fresh snow to be made for the pristine ski slopes.

Sean has mad skills when it comes to making pretzel, fruit roll up, shredded wheat umbrellas.

Liz and Gay marvel at Sean's umbrella making skills. It is pretty hot!

Said woodland creatures...

The Sear's Tower never looked so good!

I believe Gay is questioning the purity of the snow at the ski resort.

Ahh, Liz knows how to make some waves.

Oh good god, I can hardly contain myself!

Which Andrew seems to think is funny...

Joe took a break from renovations on the Cape Cod to fashion a hand dandy camera strap for the Holga.

The Sear's Tower, complete with... gummy woodland creatures. Who knew.

The candy carnage!

The g-bread troops (minus Ali and Mark and the tower of wonder!)

Let the sugar high commence!
Happy gingerbread making everyone.

Holga Gingerbread Adventures

2010-12-22T12:14:00.000-05:00

Introducing the new (just in time for the holidays)

Gingerbread Holga Twin Lens Reflex

Get yours TODAY!

As many of you know, I am a Holga fanatic, addict, champion, and all around nut case.
I would rather not go anywhere without my trusty toy camera if possible.
Well this Holiday Season, what would any crazed Holga fanatic covet... oh YES... fresh off the Holiday manufacturing belts... the G- TLR.
Gingerbread Twin Lens Relfex.
It's a one of a kind Holiday Edition Holga.
This twin lens not only boasts the most delicious gingerbread material, the 8x10 size is to die for.
The true to life detail that comes from the GTLR is astounding! It's almost as if you could take a bite right out of each image.

I was lucky enough to receive my GTLR in time for my annual gingerbread "house" making party, and boy was I glad I did. There were many gingerbread adventures that I wanted to document with this fancy GTLR, but you don't have to take my word for it...
See for yourself!

I have always found that the Holga loves worn down buildings and anything OLD, however, this condemned gingerbread house was a tad scary, so we moved on quickly.

We were pleasantly surprised that just 30 minutes from the condemned shack we stumbled upon a beautiful ski resort! The snow was fresh, the runs were pristine, and the ski lodge was serving up some righteous hot chocolate! You can see our friends on the new tandem snowboard run. They were having a blast carving up the fresh snow!

After the ski adventure we headed back to the city. We decided we'd check on our new house. Funny, some how the cats and dog found their way from McLean to S. Arlington all by themselves.
I think they have been watching to many Disney movies.

We decided we needed a break from all the renovations at the new house, and the bitter cold that we've been having here in DC and hopped a plane to sunny Mexico.
The water was warm, the sun and sand were inviting and the drinks were flowing.
It was paradise.
But then suddenly out of no where....

There was a FLASH! All we could see was a BRIGHT WHITE LIGHT!

I only had time to snap this ONE single frame, but I got it... I got the money shot!!

I BELIEVE!

Yes folks, we are not alone.

I am not sure what the Aliens were doing in Mexico, but you know, all that time cooped up in that tiny spaceship, maybe they just needed some sun, sand and waves?

I am so glad I was able to share my Holga adventures with you.

And remember, if you don't know what to get your very own Holga addict, this IS the perfect gift for any toy camera lover in your family.

Happy Holidays Everyone!!

Haiti Benifit - A Photography Show in California

2010-11-18T09:30:00.011-05:00

I feel so honored to announce that photographs from my trip to Haiti will be featured at the Peter Fetterman Gallery in Santa Monica for a one night show on December 1st. The show is a benefit to raise awareness and money that will help to send children to school in Jacmel!

Operation USA has been working tirelessly to help the children and families that were victims of the massive earthquake in Haiti earlier this year.
Many of you may remember my blog post about my trip to Haiti this past August (read it here).
The women who are helping to organize this event have deep and unending reserves of love and dedication that I find truly remarkable. Their support and belief in my images is also remarkable and I am so lucky to have this opportunity.

I hope this night, will not only bring folks out to donate, but more so to understand that while we live our lives in comfort, there are hundreds of children in Jacmel who are waiting and wondering if they will get the chance to go to school and possibly begin to emerge from the tremendous poverty that is their everyday experience.
We all have the power to help change these dire circumstances for the families in Jacmel, and I hope that in showing my photographs that I am doing my part to help change a life.
All event proceeds from ticket and photography print sales will help furnish classrooms, fund a free meal every day for each student and develop adult education and community service programs at this public elementary school that will allow more than 400 children a chance at a brighter future.

I hope that we will see many of you on December 1st. Please spread the word, and if you can't make it out to CA, I hope you will consider making a donation for the children of Jacmel. To donate click HERE!

New Orleans | Pictage Partner Conference 2010

2010-11-02T14:29:00.001-04:00

It's that time of year again. When photographers from all over the country, Canada and even across "the pond" converge in New Orleans for Pictage's annual Partner Conference! Where Y'at!?

Every year anywhere from 300-500 photographers gather in the Crescent City to learn, share, explore and teach one another. I am thrilled that this year I will actually have a more active roll at Partner Con, as we photogs like to call it.
I am excited to be a part of organizing two different excursions and leading one shooting workshop during my time in New Orleans.
Myself along with Will Jacks and Chris William aka The Rebirth Crew, will be taking 20 Partner Con attendees on two different adventures the Sunday and Monday before Partner Con kicks off.

The Rebirth Crew will be taking a trip to Oak Alley Plantation on Sunday afternoon to get a true sense of what a bonified southern plantation is all about.
Then on Monday we will be hopping on a Streetcar and taking folks out of the French Quarter to explore sights down Saint Charles Ave.

As taken from our Rebirth website:
"Our goal is to help you experience things you may not otherwise experience. It’s to have conversations you may not otherwise have. To meet people you may not otherwise meet. It is our belief that if we can successfully create this type of experience for you, you will inevitably create images that are different from any you’ve created before, and discover things about yourself that will make you a better photographer.
So be open to anything. New people. New conversations. And new photography."

Rebirth Crew - Will Jacks, Sarah Hodzic and Chris Williams

Along with the excursion with the Rebirth Crew, I will also be leading my first shooting workshop - Holga 101!
While I like to think I am fairly proficient with these crazy plastic cameras, I also know that part of the fun of teaching a workshop is getting the opportunity to learn from the folks attending it. The workshop will cover the very basics of getting to know your Holga and how to optimize our toy cameras to take the best photos they can. I will also be going over some techniques that I have found work well for multiple exposures and so forth. I look forward to the questions and discoveries we'll make together.

Sarah w/Holga photos by Carl Zoch

So to my wonderful clients, friends and family, I wanted to let you all know that I will be out of town from November 5th through the 15th. Please feel free to email or call, and I will get back to you when I return from my wonderful New Orleans adventure!

Laissez les bons temps roule!!

Stay tuned for photos from NOLA.

Holga Series {Mike and Christina Playing with Artists}

2010-10-28T11:20:00.000-04:00

A wee bit-o-holga fun with Mike and Christina during their engagement shoot in Reston.
Working with fellow artists always leads to creative ideas which = unique images.

But you guys be the judges...

Holga Series {Kathleen and Michael}

2010-10-27T23:40:00.001-04:00

(To view this image larger click on the photo)

I love when I get the chance to actually GO to a wedding as a guest. Especially when it's the wedding of my best friend, the gal I have known since I was 12, the one who has seen me at my most awkward and ridiculous.
I loved that I was able to bring the Holga to Kathleen and Michael's wedding at the Henry House in Arlington earlier this month and create images when I wanted, but also just enjoy being in the moment of such a special day.

I had so many memories flooding my mind... a lot happens between 12 and 34.
From all the boys we had crushes on, to our late night "outings" to 7-11 to get slurpees, to living just blocks from one another to Kathleen moving to Kenya, New Jersey and Charlotesville...
Our lives went through all the ups and downs that lives do, and even if there were years in between seeing one another she was never far from my mind.

I worked overtime NOT to go into the "ugly" cry when she walked out of the Henry House down the isle to Michael, but it was inevitable, especially after that little wink she threw my way.... OH lordy I was a mess.

Below you will find my artsy fartsy photos, just playing with the Holga in very low light, pushing my 400 speed film a bit, some images work, so don't... but they all have special meaning to me.
To view photos from their REAL photographer Anna Muhhina check out this link to her blog!

Thank you Kathleen and Michael for having Joe and I there to celebrate with you and your family.
You guys are inspiring, and I love you both so much!

A trip through Jacmel Hait with my Holga

2010-10-27T00:47:00.001-04:00

My trip to Jacmel Haiti this past summer is something I will not soon be able to forget.

I am not sure if it was the people whom I met, the children I talked with and photographed or the beauty amidst the catastrophic disaster that made the most impact on me.

Haiti is a place that gets under your skin once you have been there. It's a country that is lost, but it's people are resilient and courageous. These amazing people need strong leadership to help raise them up from this destitute poverty. I can only hope that in my life time I will see the Haitian people rise up from the rubble, their passionate spirit is undeniable.

Here you will find Haiti through the plastic lens of my trusty Holga.

To see images from my previous blog post about my trip to Haiti, click HERE.

Fall Engagement | Mike and Christina | Reston, VA

2010-10-26T16:06:00.007-04:00

Another amazing fall day and I had the pleasure of spending time with Mike and Christina in Reston, VA among the trees and woods and water.

Mike and Christina are both artists and don't you know I LOVE working with fellow
artists! Christina is among many things a woodworker. She has some serious skill (and patience) when it comes to her craft. She is currently getting ready for a Christmas show, and I can honestly say I have never ever seen SO many beautiful handmade wooden ornaments in one place before. If you have the chance you need to get yourself out to the Audrey Moore Center's Thirty-Third Art & Craft Show Dec 4th & 5th 2010 to see it for yourself!

And we also have our dashing groom Michael, who is a kindred spirit not just because he is a fantastic videographer and producer, he is also a fellow HB Alumni and well, that just says it ALL.
Anyone who went to HB Woodlawn knows that we are a tight knit group, even if we are years apart in age. HB will forever hold a special place in the hearts of all the students that went there, forging a bond that indeed makes us peas in a pod.

I could wax philosophical here but I will just leave you to take in the story of the day through the photos from their fabulous fall engagement session.

A big whooping thanks to Christina and Michael for making the day so fun and for being so excited to work and create these fantastic images with me. I can't wait for your wedding in 2011!!!

Here are a few of Michael and Christina's links!

Mike's video production:

http://www.monkeysee.com/play/18390-hershey-halloween-treats

http://www.monkeysee.com/play/18038-garden-planning

http://www.monkeysee.com/play/16750-cat-agility-training

Christina's woodworking:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2072565&id=1162854441&ref=mf#!/album.php?aid=2072565&id=1162854441&page=2

http://lumberjocks.com/projects/31631?sms_ss=facebook&at_xt=4cc1abdedcb05648%2C0

http://lumberjocks.com/projects/38395?sms_ss=facebook&at_xt=4cc1ab2fa641a376%2C0

http://lumberjocks.com/projects/35093

Annie and Matt - Married {Hillsborough Vineyards | Virginia Wedding Photography}

2010-10-20T15:07:00.001-04:00

Ahh the amazing views at Hillsborough Vineyards!
I am so glad that Annie and Matt introduced me to this wonderful place.

A week or so ago you may have seen my sneak peek photos from Annie and Matt's wedding at the vineyards, and as promised I am excited to share my top (eh hem) 40 or so favorites from their wedding. I wonder if there will ever be a day where I can narrow my top favorites down to say, oh... 10 or so. It's just so hard when you have an emotional connection to such amazing folks.

I walk away from every wedding with my own special memory of the day. Something different always sticks out that I take note of and Annie and Matt's wedding was no exception. I hope you will permit me to share not one, but two memories with you, you will see they are actually related to one another.
And please bare with me as I stumble over my thoughts, it's just so hard to eloquently put into words all that I want to share sometimes...

First and foremost I was really impressed and touched by Annie's father's welcome speech before dinner started. What stood out most was his extremely heartfelt words about how kind Matt is. And he is right. He said at one point that Matt is the type of person who makes everyone feel special right off the bat. Matt is the type of guy that when you are talking with him, you are the only one in the room because he cares that much about who you are and what you have to say!

Wow. I found myself nodding along when those words were spoken. In just the short time that I have gotten to spend with the two of them, Matt's authentic genuine caring and interest really does make a huge first impression.

Which brings me to my second memory that I will not soon forget.
Annie and Matt are obviously so well matched because as much as Matt cares about everyone around him, so does Annie and you can tell that she holds Matt in her heart very dearly. This was apparent to me in many ways, but she went above and beyond when she arranged for the JMU mascot (where Matt when to college) to make a surprise entrance during the reception when everyone was boogieing on the dance floor.
Matt was totally unaware of this special surprise and the look on his face (which you can see in photos below) was UTTERLY priceless, hilarious, and actually brought tears to my eyes! In that moment I could feel the love that came from this gesture on Annie's behalf.

Phew.... what an AWESOME wedding.

I could go on and on and on.
Here are just a few of the best of the best from Annie and Matt's wedding day at Hillsborough Vineyards!

Enjoy.

Annie and Matt, thank you thank you THANK you for having us there to capture the day in images.
We had a blast!

Fall Engagement | Amanda and Jeff | McLean Photographer

2010-10-19T11:39:00.001-04:00

These last few days have been utterly glorious, all that fall weather should be. Filtered sunny skies with puffy clouds, golden light reflecting off the changing colors of the leaves. That cool air mixed with the warm patches of sun all of which really say fall to me.

I've been fortunate to be able to take advantage of these amazing days with my clients. This time of year is always super popular for portraits and engagement photo sessions, and this weekend was no exception.

I met with Amanda and Jeff here at our cottage in McLean to take advantage of the wooded lot that we live on. The light was magical. Jeff and Amanda looked shall we say, picture perfect?!
Not to mention that Amanda looked totally hot in her SUPER cute dress from Anthropologie (this dress is SO CUTE that I am thinking I need to hold their pictures for ransom).

I can't wait for Jeff and Amanda's December wedding. I know we will have a blast walking the streets of Old Town Alexandria on a crisp December afternoon!

Until then, here are some of my favorites from our lovely fall shoot this past weekend.

(this one might just be my favorite)

A Proposal at Dumbarton Oaks {Washington DC Photographer}

2010-10-14T14:00:00.001-04:00

It's not often that I get the chance to photograph an actual marriage proposal in progress.
Well, not only did I get the opportunity to photograph is amazing moment, Andrew our very creative, sweet and romantic groom was all about creating a game plan for the whole event.

I thought at first I would just hide in the bushes somewhere and shoot as he popped the question. However, Andrew and I exchanged many emails over the weeks, talking over locations and so much more.

We determined that Dumbarton Oaks in Georgetown was the ideal romantic setting. Andrew told his bride to be, Chrissy that we he had set up a portrait session for that afternoon. Chrissy had NO idea that a proposal was coming, and I was giddy with excitement as all the final preparations were made.

The day was absolutely perfect, and I tried hard not to go into the "ugly" cry when Andrew got down on one knee. I loved being able to witness that look of total shock turn into pure laughter and joy.
Way to go Andrew for having the desire to make this proposal so special!
I know you and Chrissy will have a tremendously happy life together.

Before the proposal we walked around the amazing gardens at Dumbarton Oaks to keep up the guise of "couple portraits"...

We then came to the designated "proposal" spot. Little did Chrissy know that when she told Andrew this was her favorite part of the park/gardens when they came for a visit earlier in the year, that this would be the place he asked for her hand.

We then fished our walk around the manor to take more photos of Andrew and Chrissy as newly engaged - soon to be bride and groom!

Congratulations to you both! I can't thank you enough for allowing me the honor of being there to document the actual proposal! I still get all giddy thinking about it.

Kelly and Neils {Washington DC Holga Wedding}

2010-10-13T12:15:00.002-04:00

Ah analog is always well worth the wait.
Kelly and Neils had their wedding this past September in Washington DC.
I was lucky to have the opportunity, and the excitement of my wonderful clients that lead to pulling out the Holga for a few quick shots during our time at the Capital and Regan building.

Here is what we created...

I have been playing with shooting panoramas with the Holga. This effect can be quite dreamy. I often times feel like effect leads to a storyboard of the day. While not all of them turn out well, I think there is always a wonderful mysterious quality to this way of capturing images on film.

A double exposure within the panoramic.

Finally, a triple exposure inside the Reagan Building. They have some amazing architecture!

Thank you again to Kelly and Neils for their excitement and willingness to play and allow me to create a few fun and unique wedding images for you!

Annie and Matt {Sneak Peek - Hillsborough Vineyards, VA}

2010-10-10T11:08:00.002-04:00

OK, I am smitten. I have fallen completely in love with both Annie and Matt!
Their wedding at Hillsborough Vineyards yesterday was, in a word... ROCKIN'.

What a great job all their friends and family did as well. This wedding was truly a collaborative effort and it showed.

More coming soon.

Annie and Matt, you guys are pretty freaking fantabulous!

Kelly and Niels - Married {Washington DC - Reagan Building}

2010-09-15T17:25:00.000-04:00

Kelly and Niel's were married on September 4th in Washington DC.
The weather could not have been more perfect, and if you are a DC/NOVA resident you know how fickle late summer weather can be here.

Kelly and Niels planned time before the wedding ceremony (which is bliss to a wedding photographer) to do a first look at the Dupont Hotel and then we all loaded on to a bus and headed down to the Capital building for more photos.
We had a great time photographing the whole wedding party on the the Capital lawn and Summer House. And all with time to spare as the bus driver got us to the Foundry Church in time to see guests arriving and settling in for the ceremony.

The day ran so smoothly thanks to the wonderful organization of Rebecca from Wish Special Events. The Reagan building where the glorious reception was held, had the most helpful, friendly and accommodating people I have met in quite a while. It all could not have gone any better.

Thank you so much to Kelly and Niels and both of your families for being such amazing clients!!

A sampling of favorite images from the day, and of course... stay tuned for Holga photos!

Kelly has such great taste. Her dress could not have been more perfect for her style, and the whole look of the wedding day! Hats off to you Kelly for having such a beautiful aesthetic!

Amazing flowers from Petal's Edge.
Not only were the boutiques scrumptious, the flowers at the Reagan building made that ballroom come alive!

The color theme was Navy and Silver, and let me just tell you, ever single one of Kelly's bridesmaids looked fierce in their dresses.

Another big thank you to my fabu second shooter Kip Pierson who got this sweet shot of Kelly waiting for the first look. Kip is always there to get the killer shots when I am off somewhere else with my eye stuck to the viewfinder of my camera. We make a great team I have to say!

Ahh, the very dapper groom Niel's waiting in this luxurious room at the top of the Dupont Hotel waiting to see Kelly for the first time.

Of course we HAD to take advantage of this space. Stunning couple, rich, luxurious room = happy photographer.

I loved that we had a chance to take advantage of the view as well. The weather was just amazing, the view over looking the whole of Dupont Circle was tremendous... I could not ask for more.

Kelly works on "The Hill" so naturally the Capital building plays a big roll in their lives. It was a hoot to be there on the wedding day with the whole wedding party, we even got a roar of applause and cheering from tourists as we walked on to the lawn... talk about a great way to infuse the wedding day with some celebratory energy!

One heck of a good looking wedding party!

High-fives were a big thing with Niels and his groomsmen... even the littlest of the bunch gave a rousing palm to palm!

The Summer house on the ground of the Capital is one of my favorite spots to visit downtown. Funny this was my first time actually taking photos there even after all these long years of living in DC.
I will be back...

There are some truly beautiful old churches in downtown DC. This was my first time photographing inside the Foundry and it was spectacular. Kip's wide shot from the balcony really gives you and idea of how grand this place was.

Mr. and Mrs. Poulsen

A quick shot at one of the many beautiful architectural spots of the Reagan building, I love this place!

High-fives for everyone!!

Like I said, Kelly has such a wonderful aesthetic. I love how all the details came together, and who would NOT be excited about Georgetown Cupcakes for dessert!

Let the party begin!

Part of Neil's family is Norweign and they had a few wedding customs I had never seen before.
I found myself roaring with laughter as lines formed around Kelly and Neils and the men went one after another giving the bride kiss after kiss after kiss and then same for the groom...and as the line kept going, the kissing got more "creative", it was hilarious!

Oh yes, and then there was the cutting of the toe of the left sock of the groom! I need to find out what this symbolizes. All I know is that there was a rockin' dance party on the floor when all of a sudden the groom was ambushed and lifted off the floor, a shoe removed and out came the scissors...

I'm not sure Niels knew what hit him... again, another priceless and hilarious moment.

Kelly and Niel's know how to give their friends and family a great time. And I will have to say that the band was PHENOMENAL! BS&M Band keep this party jumpin' all night long.

Yep, we are hams.. what can I say.

We seriously had the best time with everyone involved in the "big day".
Thank you again Kelly and Niels, I know your life together will be a great one.

Holga in the Mississippi Delta {Happy Little Accidents}

2010-09-02T12:18:00.000-04:00

I recently had the good fortune to head back down to the Mississippi Delta for the COLOR show curated by our very own Will Jacks, held at the Warehouse in Cleveland. I knew that this trip was going to be a chance for me to escape for a week to create. I had a plan to let myself go, and follow my plastic lens where ever it pointed! I have an affinity for MS, not only is it only where I had my images hung (for the first time) in a photography show, but it is also the place that gave me the courage to pursue the Holga as a legitimate art from.

Last year I was fortunate enough to have an image that I created in MS take 1st place at Holgapalooza. Ever since then I have been on fire to get back and shoot my little heart out.
I wanted this trip to be about experimentation, because while I know that the Holga is about shooting without rules, I have gotten into a routine with it. I know what works (for me) and what doesn't (or so I thought), so I have found myself playing it safe lately. SAFE? With a HOLGA? I was missing the whole point of what drew me to the low-fi photography world in the first place.

It was all systems GO when I got to MS, and oddly enough it was hard to push myself to do it all wrong. So I thought, lets at least just try some crazy techniques that I had written off early because I thought I couldn't make it work. Well... lets just say I am over the moon with the images that came from my time down south. Just goes to show I need to stop worrying and just shoot that damn Holga any way that suits my fancy. Want to hang upside down and shoot, DO IT! Throw it down a flight of stairs, DO IT! How can you go wrong when everything about this medium is a crap shoot anyway.

WOohoo! Liberation!

Haiti {Documenting Hope}

2010-08-27T19:33:00.007-04:00

Iron Flowers

by Kalam Salaam

sluggish, semi-stagnant
the water in Haitian gutters,
small gullets, trickles green,
sewerage green, here even
the dirt is poor and
there is a cloying dullness
camouflaging even strongly
persistent colors

in squared, white walled
cemeteries
funeral flowers are made of
painted iron/ i see no roses
rising through this Port
Au Prince poverty

i hesitate to take pictures
it is like thievery
almost like
i am stealing precious light
that these, my brothers and sister,
need to live

A little over a week and a half ago I returned from a trip to Jacmel Haiti.
It was a short trip, but one that has left it's mark.
I was hired to shoot photography stills - freelance for Honeywell, documenting the ground breaking of a school in Jacmel.
Honeywell , Operation USA and Gensler are working together to fund and build a public school that will educate 400 student each year.
They are undertaking an enormous task, the building is easy part... getting the children to stay in school will be the on going battle, but not because the children don't want to go to school, it's quite the opposite. It's the unbelievable obstacles that circumstances that these children and their families have to deal with on a daily basis, that we as people living in the US can't even comprehend.
I was proud to meet and get to know the people on the ground who believe so deeply in this project.
Amazing things are happening because of this group of deeply dedicated folks and their determination. They are heros in ever sense of the word!

Nothing could have truly prepared me for what I saw and experienced in my short visit. I am not sure that most Americans would be able to fathom the dire circumstances that most Haitians are living in. The poverty that I have seen in the US doesn't even come close to what I saw while I was in Jacmel and Port Au Prince. And the ride through Port Au Prince was one I would very much like to forget, but I know better than that. I know that seeing the way these amazing people survive and live every day IS something that needs to stay seared into my mind!
All to quickly we forget. Especially when the destruction and pain is on such a massive level.
I still don't know how one can express in words such an experience.

I feel completely humbled by Steeve Texas and Frantz Pierre Louis who were our men on the ground working as project manager and construction supervisor. Along with Susan Fassig and Allison Deknatel of Operation USA who I feel are like soul sisters, Kelly Reed of Honeywell, who was amazing at talking to everyone on our photography walk through the neighborhoods of Jacmel. And of course I know I would not have felt as at ease without the mighty little crew from Ventana, Rich Joy and Chris Tsou. So many amazing people have been working tirelessly to see that this school DOES get built. As Frantz said one night, "We may not see the benefits from this school being build until our grandchildren have grandchildren, but it will happen." The fact that there is hope at all is a wondrous and beautiful thing.
In these people, I believe.

Ariel view of the school site in Jacmel.

Unloading our single engine prop jet at the Jacmel airport.

So many mopeds all over the island. Between those and tap taps (brightly colored 4x4 trucks which people crowd into as their mode of transportation) the streets were always full of traffic.

Cleared out site of the new school. There was a tent city here just a few weeks before our arrival. Frantz and Steeve said having to move these people was one of the most difficult tasks emotionally that they had to undertake. The people living here for the most part understood the need to move, and some even wanted to know if they would be able to come to school here, but it was emotionally trying non the less.

So many amazing children at the site. It seemed it was a place to come and play, read, have card games... I hope that even when there is a school here that all children can come and have a safe place to play.

View from our hotel in Jacmel. I woke up early every morning, it was hard to sleep. I was surprised and moved to see these two men meditating on this cliff at 6am.

Kelly from Honeywell was amazing at interacting with all the kids and adults as we walked around the neighborhoods getting a feel for the people living here. I love that the kids always wanted to see their images in the back of the camera. They ALWAYS got such delight from seeing themselves, it was priceless.

As it the case all over Haiti, the school site while cleared out of tons of trash and debris, so much still remains embedded into the ground. Goats, pigs and dogs are everywhere, along with remnants of buildings effected by the earthquake.

There were two very old ship wrecks just beyond the walls of the school grounds. They were quite beautiful.

This young man was so much fun to talk with. His English was really good and he was eager to chat. He is studding philosophy and comes to the site to read and write with his girlfriend. I so enjoyed talking with him and learning about his passion for philosophy, I believe I stood there marveling at his notebook with pages and pages of hand written notes. He had the most exquisite handwriting and I kept telling him so, which of course made him take out a pen and ask me to write so that he could see my (atrocious) penmanship... I loved his reaction to my attempt at my most neat cursive... he said, "Um, I think maybe that is OK."

Because there is no system in place for the people of Haiti to dispose of trash, this is what you see everywhere. I was constantly amazed as well at the children running barefoot among the rusted cans, broken glass and all other manor of waste. But out of all of that, their laughter was always what I came back to.

Homemade kites all over the school site.

I stumbled upon an all boys card/betting game... I could tell some were wary of my presence and others thought is was pretty hilarious! I need to learn more Creole if and when I go back.

Myself, Kelly and Steeve decided to venture off the school grounds and thus began the photo walk through the neighborhoods of Jacmel. I will have to say that through all the decay, trash, condemned buildings it the bright colors of the clothes, tap taps and buildings that really did shine through.
I was very conscious of what and who I was photographing, wanting to make sure that I was respectful of not making my images voyeuristic, but really wanting to document what I saw as I saw it, so that I could help tell the story of the town of Jacmel.

Tap tap in the background and one of MANY Lotto/Bank huts that line the streets of Jacmel.

So many breathtakingly beautiful faces.

The kites are everywhere.

Tent cities are also everywhere still. I often wonder if people here in the US realized that this is how many Haitian are living. I saw little to no rebuilding (except for the school). To me, this is why it's so important not to forget.

This mother was so joyful. Kelly had taken her photo with her baby and was showing her the photos on his camera as I walked up. I asked if I could take her photo as well as she was doing the wash. She was laughing but also very shy, she beckoned me inside because she wanted me to follow to take a photograph of her son who was quietly sitting and watching his mother. Oh, so very very sweet!

Viewing the plans for the school.

Later that day we took a walk through the main street/square of Jacmel. The market place was as crowded as Time Square in NYC on New Years Eve, but add blazing heat and humidity...
I will have to say this experience in the market was a bit scary and stressful for me. Knowing that people were NOT happy we were there filming and photographing made it hard for me to want to shoot. But thank God for the amazing Steeve Texas who is and was our savior through the streets. He guided us through helping the camera crew to get the footage they needed and also helping us to understand what we were seeing.

I saw this young boy selling these green fruits, which I had been seeing all over the market. I asked Steeve what they were, and he called the boy over and bought a bunch for us to try. This fruit goes by many different names through out the Caribbean, Chennette, Akee, Canep, Chenep, Kenip, Mapo, Skinip, Spanish Lime, Tjennét. It was delicious, and to me tasted like the cross between a peach, plum and cantaloupe.

Football is of course, very popular here.

The cost line of Jacmel was remarkably beautiful!

Even though the earthquake devastated 90% of the buildings in Jacmel, you could still see the beautiful architecture. They was almost ghostly in their presence, you could sense what the tremendous beauty that once was here.

The new Major of Jacmel giving soccer balls to some of the children.

These boys were my main subjects for the rest of the afternoon as the ground breaking ceremonies ended. They were so much fun to photograph as they ran back and forth to see what their poses looked like after I snapped one shot after another. It was a great way to end a long day.

Haiti, you have left your mark. Deeply.

About Iron Flowers -
Salaam, an African journalist and poet, was sent to Haiti to write a feature article. He visited Haiti more than once over a couple of month period. His experience was one where he was overwhelmed by the poverty and hardship of Haiti, though he saw the beauty too. However, I know from past experiences that the sum of his experience, as expressed in the poems, might be much too much concentration on the misery for some of you. It is a book of a "first visit" to Haiti.

Puerto Rico - San Juan

2010-08-08T09:15:00.000-04:00

I had the privileged last weekend to be a second shooter for good friend and fellow photographer Kip Pierson. It was fantastic to work with Kip as the main shooter and I could be his trusty side kick.
What made this wedding a 10, not only were Kip's clients gorgeous, generous, and a load of fun, the wedding was held in San Juan Puerto Rico!!!

Yep, my first trip to Puerto Rico and I was lucky enough to create some beautiful images of some wonderful folks!
The wedding was held at a historic hotel in Old San Juan that use to be a Nunnery called El Convento. It was a truly gorgeous building!
The girls were getting ready at the hotel and we were to head up to the ceremony site, which was at the tippy top of El Morro, the most amazing old fort I have ever seen (I swear it was a visual right out of Lord of The Rings). The plan was to go by taxi to the fort however, traffic that day was so bad that we all decided to walk through the cobble stone streets of Old San Juan to get to El Morro.
It truly could not have been a more picturesque walk.
Nothing beats walking through and old town with so much history with a gorgeous wedding party and having all the tourists and locals wishing you well and congratulations along the way.
I felt like I had stepped back in time!

The wedding ceremony was beautiful and quite magical atop the majestic fort, and we had a bout an hour to play with night shots around the entire fort with just the bride and groom. The night shots were, in a word... magnificent!!!

Kip and I decided to stay on for two extra days to get some time to soak in the old city.
We took the day to wonder around Old San Juan and have a little photo safari. It really is hard
to take a bad photo there. With the influence of European and Spanish architecture and just the richness of the Puerto Rican culture, it's a visual feast for all the senses.

On our second day of our mini vacation we met up with William a good friend of Kip's who organizes a huge road bike race/tour around the island every year called La Vuelta. William is a true Puerto Rican, and his hospitality and amazing tour guide skills were a treat. William took us to the El Yunque rain forest for a inspiring hike. I can say that in all my life I have never had a hiking experience so lush, so rich, and so magical. We even met a professor or the trail who was out studding and hunting fern species. That day he had found at least 5 on the mountain that has yet to be recorded!
Like I said, magical and a bit surreal.

I have posted some of my favorite photos from the wedding night shots and my tour around the island. I can't wait to go back and spend a few days exploring all that this island has to offer. The beaches are hear are stunning, so I believe that is more than enough to lure me back!

I am currently sitting in a private airport in Ft. Lauderdale Florida waiting to catch a charter plane to Jacmel Haiti!
So the adventure continues, and I will be sharing updates and photos from that trip very soon.

Enjoy...

Peat and Shauna {Luray Virginia - Kihmaira Farm}

2010-07-20T13:52:00.002-04:00

I am proud to present - Peat and Shauna's Country Wedding in Luray, Virginia at Kihmaria Farm!

Instead of me doing a piss poor job at trying to write some clever and sentimental blog post, because lets face it... I'm a photographer, not a writer, I am going to let the photos speak for themselves.

But I do want to say this...
Peat and Shauna, you guys really did inspire me in so many ways on your wedding day.
So, thank you.

Peat and Shauna Married {Khimaira Farm Luray, VA ~ Holga Photography}

2010-07-14T21:30:00.002-04:00

Peat and Shauna. Married July 2010 at Kihmaira Goat Farm in Luray, VA.

I honestly can't remember the last time I got so emotional at a wedding I was photographing.
The location was sublime, the guest were full of joy, excitement, and love, the vows were total tearjerkers, Peat was hilarious and Shauna was stunning and quite possibly one of the craftiest brides I have ever known.

There is so much I could say about Shauna and Peat, but for now I will digress...

This is the HOLGA blog post. Less words from me, more photos from my toy camera.
Enjoy!

Leslie and Gavrie {Holga Photography - Woodend Sanctuary}

2010-06-24T18:04:00.000-04:00

Leslie and Gavrie were married at the beautiful Woodend Sanctuary in Maryland this past May.
You can see their full blog post here.

Woodend was not only a beautiful location for a wedding, but it was a fantastic venue for Holga photography as well.

Leslie and Gavrie are big fans of the Holga style, which just makes me love them even more!
Here are some of my favorites from the day.

Susan and Steve Married {Glen Echo Park, Maryland}

2010-06-21T17:30:00.003-04:00

Susan and Steve created a beautiful event for their friends and family this past Saturday at Glen Echo Park where they celebrated their new marriage.
It was a hot June evening, but that did stop anyone from having a blast and enjoying the great music by Mike Bell of My Deejay.com, and the AMAZING food from Matters of Taste caterers.

Susan and Steve used the amusement park theme throughout their weddings starting with the most fantastic letter press wedding invitations I have ever seen, to the table toppers that had photos of beloved roller coaster indicating table names for their guests.

It was a wonderful night, Susan and Steve are truly beloved by their friends and family, and it was wonderful to be amidst the celebration.
Thank you both for having me there to document your day, it was an honor.
And a big thank you to my second shooter Hennessey Green for helping to capture Susan and Steve's wedding!

Here are a few of my favorites from the wedding - Holga images coming soon.

Portrait Nights {Portraits & Headshots McLean Virginia}

2010-06-18T17:23:00.000-04:00

Round 2, of portraits done in the last few weeks.
Actually, these images were made a few week prior to the ones of Kim and Laura at our monthly PUG meeting here at the house in McLean.

I have recently become the DC area PUG leader, which for those of you unfamiliar with PUGs (or Pictage User Groups), it's a group of professional and aspiring professional photographers that meet once a month, which were the brain child of Pictage.com. We meet once a month to talk shop, trade business ideas, inspire one another, play, network and more.

My clients are familiar with Pictage as the online host for viewing and sharing their wedding photos, along with order prints and albums.
But this company is so much more...
I have been a member of Pictage for many years now, and it always amazes me how such a large and growing company can feel so much like family. Pictage is dedicated not only to my clients, but also to me as a photographer and artist.
Their support is essential to my business being as successful as it is.

But I digress....

This meeting we were going to be focusing on shooting night portraits for FUN, and maybe a little friendly competition.
We had the wonderful Kim Mihalik and Florrie Bagel as our willing models for the evening, we utilized the shabby chic-ness of my little cottage, throw in a spot light and a LOT of photo hilarity ensued.

Thanks to everyone who came out and participated.

I look forward to more photo adventures with you all!