Tuesday, November 13, 2012

John & Janet- Romantic Autumn Shoot

Today I am faced with the harsh reminder that I do, in fact, live in Michigan. It came in the form of an open handed slap of temperature change!
This past November weekend was a lovely 65 degrees, which we took full advantage of by shooting some outdoor family portraits (More on that later). But today was the dreaded
First-Snow-Of-the-Season.
Don't get me wrong, I love the snow! It creates a picturesque diamond-white landscape on the bare trees, open fields, and walking paths, putting joy into the heart of a lowly photographer. But it has it's time and place, and I'm simply not willing to fully grasp the thought that our warm weather has flown south for what will feel like the next eight months.
*Sigh* Oh well. I suppose there's nothing to do but curl up with a steaming cup of coffee while enjoying the memories of our dearly departed Indian summer.

John and Janet: Both so much fun to shoot with. We went out to a beautiful nature trail at the peak of Michigan's fall colors in October, and had a blast shooting the romance that comes so naturally in those surroundings.





























So many photos, but I couldn't help it! I love them all. Hope you did too.
Until Next time,
Keep Smiling!
Esther Stoneburner
Viva Bene Photography

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

It's a Girl! Part II

As you may recall from earlier posts, my sister Judith is pregnant with a baby girl, and getting bigger by the day it seems! We had taken some maternity portraits with Judith alone, but it's important for any father to be involved in the life of his son or daughter, so of course we had to do another shoot when her fiance, Ray could be there.




 Who says you can't be fierce when you're pregnant? Well, absolutely no one!












It was very sweet to see them interacting together, and we're all eagerly awaiting the birth of our brand new family member. I see many princess photo shoots in her future!
Until next time, keep smiling.
Esther Stoneburner
Viva Bene Photography

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Letters From Home

Whew, it's been a little bit since I've posted here hasn't it?
Well, just because photos haven't been posted on the blog, doesn't mean they aren't being shot!
This shoot in particular, I have to say, was one of my all-time favorites. Not necessarily because of the photos (although they turned out just spectacular) but because of the story behind them...

This is Elena, an absolutely beautiful woman, inside and out.
And a brand new bride!
Elena met Josh, an Army Lt. from Michigan and the sparks flew. This led to them falling in love, and as is often the case, that led to their beautiful wedding and even more beautiful marriage. (I had the pleasure of taking their engagement photos two summers ago!)

Then, what all military wives know all to well, it came time for Josh to serve his country through deployment. Elena continues to support him, and fervently awaits his return home.
Wanting to curb some of his home sickness, she arranged for us to take some lovely portraits to send her devoted husband overseas.
What a great idea! I am continually touched by this couple's unconditional love for one another.















 I hope this inspires you, like it did me.
Because of them, and people like them, I have decided to give a 50% discount to all active duty military and their family for any photography need.
This is not a promotion, it's permanent. Just my small way of saying "Thank you".

Have a great day, and keep smiling!

Esther Stoneburner
Viva Bene Photography