Krista Lee Photography

Baby Colin Has Arrived!

2012-01-03T17:03:00.000-08:00

Krista and Clint welcomed Colin William into the world earlier this evening.
Colin weighed in at 6lbs 14oz and 19 3/4 inches long.
Mom and baby are doing well!!

:)
Rachel

Maternity Leave and Happy Holidays!!!!

2012-01-01T07:30:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!! Hope everyone had a fantastic holiday! In case you've been wondering why I have been MIA on here, I am now on maternity leave! We have been busy trying to wrap up loose ends and get ready for our first little bundle of joy to be here :) We are so excited for baby Colin to get here (and I won't lie... a bit nervous too...LOL) I am scheduled to be induced tomorrow morning (January 3rd) at Centennial Hospital so wish us luck! :) :)

We are so grateful and thankful for all of our wonderful clients and friends, and I am looking forward to an amazing 2012. Happy New Year!!!

~Krista and Clint

Ashley's Bride Guide: 2011 Year End Round Up

2011-12-23T09:04:00.000-08:00

Just found out we are featured in the #1 spot on Ashley's Bride Guide: 2011 End of Year Roundup - Our Favorite Overall Real Nashville Weddings for Justin and Kate's amazing zoo-inspired wedding!!!! I LOVE LOVE LOVE this blog and follow it religiously so it is a huge honor to be mentioned in this post! Check it out if you have a moment, and if you are planning on tying the knot anytime soon you NEED to be reading this blog!

Best of The Knot 2012!!!

2011-11-14T12:58:00.000-08:00

We just found out we were named one of the best photographers on The Knot. com!!!! AAAAAHHHHH! I LOVE this site and it is a huge honor to be chosen!!!! This just made my day :) :)

Victoria's sneak peeks : Nashville Children's Photographer

2011-11-08T20:53:00.000-08:00

I am always so excited to see Victoria's name on my schedule. Not only is her mom one of best clients and one of the sweetest people on earth, I just absolutely adore this little one! Jennifer (her mom) always brings the cutest outfits..the best ideas... and Victoria is just SO photogenic with that curly hair and striking blue eyes! LOVE! We did a location shoot this time and I am just so excited with the way it turned out... It was such a pretty day and I love that they brought a little tea set (as that is one of Victoria's favorite things to do right now!) She even shared some (pretend) tea with me and it was sooo good! LOL

Jennifer and Clifton, it was SO good seeing you all! These may be some of my most favorite shots of Victoria so far!!! Hope you like them! :) Hugs, Krista

Shoots from the past week! Nashville Photographer

2011-11-08T10:48:00.000-08:00

Usually I try to do a post for everyone.... but I tell you what, the last few weeks have been SO crazy I am having a hard time keeping up! So please forgive me if you didn't get posted last week... We are mainly just trying to get everyone's shoots out in a timely fashion so the blog has been neglected a bit lately! October/November is always our craziest time of the year, between all of the weddings, family photos for Xmas cards, and business as usual with the studio headshots and such. It is almost 1 am and I am STILL up trying to get everyone's previews and weddings finished up so instead of doing a separate post for everyone, these are going to be all in this post :) :) If you are waiting on your wedding photos (I know all of you have your previews but not everyone has their wedding in it's entirety) I PROMISE I am working on them all hours of the day and night and hoping to get them all done very soon! Here's some sneak peeks from shoots over the past week, we had SO many smiling faces in the studio. It was GREAT to see you all!!!! :) ~Krista

John's headshot previews :

The Inman's!

Okay.. this next one just CRACKS me up!!

Jessi and Derrick's Engagement previews :) :)

Mr. Dexter's 3 month photos... He was CRACKING me up with his little man faces, and he kept making little fists like he was about to knock somebody out, LOL!

Ms. Kate's 2 year photos... She made us work for these photos, LOL!

And last but certainly not least, the Nelson fam! How adorable are their boys??!

Farm Shoot Previews! Nashville Family Photographer

2011-11-04T14:08:00.000-07:00

Another AMAZING day of shoots at the farm! LOVE everything you all brought! Hope you love the previews!!! :) ~Krista

Kristin + Kevin Tied the Knot! : Nashville Wedding Photographer

2011-11-03T16:31:00.000-07:00

I was totally flattered that Kristin hired me to be her photographer. Not only are she and her hubby Kevin super adorable and completely stylish, she also is a photographer herself! This now is the 2nd wedding I have shot for other photographer couples in the past month... And to me, getting hired by other photographers- on the most important day of their life- is one of the highest compliments possible!

Kristin and Kevin tied the knot at a private venue in Franklin Tennessee on a GORGEOUS autumn day. The weather was crisp and perfect and I couldn't believe all of the amazing details incorporated into the day. Kristin went all out on the DIY decor, and pulled most of the accents together with the help of her wedding planner Kristin Kaplan of Simply Stunning Events. I LOVED all of the bird cages and shabby chic mason jars. Kristin also incorporated old cameras and fun vintage items into the table decor = LOVE!!!

The love between these two is so abundant and obvious, it just makes you giddy to watch them together. They just absolutely adore each other, and look so freaking cute together!!!

Kristin and Kevin, it was SO great spending the day with you!!! I wish you much love and happiness in the future and I hope you love your previews!!! :) :) ~Krista

K & K did a private meeting before the ceremony.. Seriously, how cute are they???!

Kristin and Kevin's Amazing Vendors:

Wedding Planning : Kristin Kaplan, Simply Stunning Events
Videographer: Full Frame Cinema
Rentals: Connie Duglin Linens and Music City Tents
Ceremony and Reception Site: Villa Toscana
Caterer: B&C BBQ
Cake: Crumb de la Crumb
Officiant: Ralph Griggs
DJ: Robert Luke
Lighting: Nashville Event Lighting
Flowers: Brocade Design
Stationary: Designs in Paper

Zinnia + Paul - An AMAZING wedding at Traveller's Rest : Nashville Wedding Photographer

2011-11-01T18:35:00.000-07:00

Paul and Zinnia had the most picture perfect fall day at Traveler's Rest Plantation here in Nashville. I have known Paul for quite a while now, and I was so excited to find out that he had found "the one" :) and was tying the knot! Zinnia and Paul make the SWEETEST couple and I am so happy for the both of them!

This was my first time working out at Traveler's Rest, and I just absolutely adore every inch of it... It was GORGEOUS. The day ran flawlessly thanks to Emily Humphries of Simply Yours wedding planning and a lot of fun was had by all :) :)

Paul and Zinnia, thank you for letting me be a part of your big day! It was amazing and I wish you both the best!!!!! Now hurry up and have some babies so I have more excuses to see you all! J/k :) :) ~Krista

The boys claimed they were all "unique"... And wanted to show me... As if I needed convincing, LOL! Love it

A thanks to all of the awesome vendors of the day!!!

Planner: Emily Humphries, Simply Yours

Officiate: Joshua Stump

Caterer: Down South Delights

Rentals: Classic Party Rentals

Cake: The Bake Shoppe

Music: Sweet T Entertainment

Assistant Photographer: Alex Embry

Second Assistant: Leah Wegman

Too funny NOT to share....

2011-10-26T09:47:00.000-07:00

I was literally rolling after reading this blog post from sellabitmum.com and just had to share. I promise we do not encourage these techniques at our photo shoots! LOL... Hope you all are having a great week and looking forward to the family farm shoots on Saturday!!! :) ~Krista

Top 10 Tips for a Successful Holiday Family Photo Shoot

October 17, 2011

I took my kids out to the woods on Sunday to take Holiday pictures. I was so proud of myself this year since we were doing this so early this year, it was still warm out AND I took them to nature instead of the highway overpass that I took them to last year..you remember that don’t you?

So after many years of experience – I have my top 10 tips for you to have a successful do-it-yourself Holiday photo shoot.
1. Purchase new wool sweaters for your kids. THEY ITCH. and THEY BITCH through the whole session.

2. Take your children to the woods and listen to their screams because you make a joke about bears being nearby.

3. Take your children to a place where they just happen to see a friend and then eldest child is visibly humiliated that she is “dressed up” and “with her mother” and “posing for pictures with her sister”

4. Serve them chocolate for breakfast so they are bouncing off the walls and then CRASH HARD.

5. Forget any and all candy bribes to try to get just “one more shot and then we get a lollipop” so they start running away almost immediately.

6. Yell at your kids once they start the “she’s touching me” crap after you’ve told them to move closer together and act like you like each other.

7. Make sure the shoot starts infringing on lunch and/or nap time because nothing says “perfect shot” like a toddler throwing herself upon the ground.

8. Have toddler, upon throwing herself upon the ground, get a big gash in her cheek from the brush. In the woods, Where the bears live. Blood. Blood is perfect for a photo shoot.

9. New shoes! Love the comfort of new shoes for a photo shoot. Bitching of sore feet from new shoes only starts about 3 minutes into the shoot.

10. Take your kids holiday photos yourself. Don’t bother hiring this out because nothing says holiday cheer when you are yelling to your child “just effing smile NOW or you are going to have to move out so I can find a new family for the card this year!!”

Meg's Model Test Shoot : Nashville Photographer

2011-10-23T21:24:00.000-07:00

I just absolutely adore this lovely lady... She came in for her very FIRST shoot ever this week, she is thinking of trying out modeling. She has no agent yet and is only 14 years old! I know she was a little nervous (as is anyone trying out their modeling moves for the first time in front of the camera!) but I was SO SO proud of her! She was A-mazing in front of the camera and has a perfect look for a model. Meg, you did sooooo good! I hope you love your previews and I know you are going to have a fantastic career modeling :) :)
~Krista
Hair and m/u : Stephanie Russell

Mittlesdorf Family Previews! Nashville Family Photographer

2011-10-22T09:51:00.000-07:00

This was the Mittlesdorf's first time into the studio to see me, and as luck would have it they picked the coldest/rainiest day of the week! But even if we didn't go outside for many, we were able to still have a great shoot and got a lot of fun photos with the kids! It was great meeting you all, hope you love your previews!

~Krista

Rebecca's Headshot Previews : Nashville Headshot Photographer

2011-10-22T05:51:00.000-07:00

Rebecca was in need a some updated headshots this week! She came to me a few years ago for some shots and had great luck with the photo, and landed quite a few acting gigs :) She since has changed her hair color a bit and just needed a more current photo for her agent. We had a great shoot! Hope you like your previews Rebecca, great seeing you! ~Krista

Wallker's previews

2011-10-22T01:00:00.000-07:00

Little Walker came in for some Christmas photos this week! He always CRACKS me up, as he is soooo serious. He's a happy little guy but just doesn't grin or smile a whole lot, LOL! His big blue eyes are so gorgeous that he doesn't really need to smile though, he's a charmer regardless :) Mom brought a vintage santa that has been in her family for a long time to do pictures with, love it :) It was great seeing you all! ~Krista

Recent Headshots: Michelle and Johnna! Nashville Headshot Photographer

2011-10-20T21:17:00.000-07:00

A few previews from some of our headshot sessions this week! We had some gorgeous ladies in the studio! Both Michelle and Johnna are local actresses and were in need of a new updated promo shot. We had great shoots with both of them, ladies it was great meeting you! Good luck with everything and I hope you love your previews!

~Krista

Ms. Johnna's makeup and hair by Stephanie Russell :)

Pumpkin Patch Day Previews! Nashville Family Photographer

2011-10-17T10:08:00.000-07:00

We had an A-MAZING day in Franklin on Saturday!!! Whenever we set up an entire day of outdoor location shoots, I am always a teeny bit worried that it might be awful weather and we'll have to reschedule everyone. People came in from as far as Kentucky for this shoot, so I was SO thankful when I checked the weather and saw 75 degrees, ZERO percent chance of rain... !

The day was perfect, and everyone looked AMAZING! I LOVED LOVED LOVED all of the great outfits everyone brought, they were perfect! Great job you all!!! We had so much fun with all of the kiddos and were able to get great shots of everyone. It was great seeing you all and I hope you love your previews! Have a great week! ~Krista

Abby + Tim : Engagement Photos : Murfreesboro Photographer

2011-10-15T21:10:00.000-07:00

Abby and Tim are the sweetest couple ever and I am SO excited to be shooting their wedding next year! Abby has been following my blog for years, and so I am excited that I get to finally feature HER on the blog! Whoo hoo!

We originally had to reschedule their engagement shoot, as the weather was just awful and dingy and rainy. I was a little worried we might have to reschedule a second time....as the weather this week has been a little iffy... but they lucked out with an amazingly picture perfect day! We met up in Murfreesboro and went for a more organic feel for their photos, no super urban images. They were great sports, and followed me through eye level weeds/grass, laid on the ground, and let me pose them into all kinds of crazy poses (LOL) to get some amazing shots. I am in love with how they turned out and I hope you all like them just as much! Abby and Tim, it was great working with you all, can't wait for your big day!

:)
~Krista

Izzy's Comp Shoot : Nashville Children's Photographer

2011-10-13T15:12:00.000-07:00

Izzy came in yesterday for some modeling photos as she would like to pursue acting and modeling! She DEFINITELY has what it takes... She just rocked right through the entire shoot like a true pro! Combine that with a gorgeous flawless complexion and those A-MAZING blue eyes and I think we'll see her in a few years on America's Next Top Model :) :) Watch out Nashville! Leah and Izzy, it was great meeting you all! Good luck and keep in touch!!! ~Krista

Van's 6 month photos : Nashville baby photographer

2011-10-13T15:04:00.000-07:00

We just had a studio full of cute babies yesterday! Including Mr. Van, who is such a charmer! He is the cutest thing and has such a fun personality. Love those dimples and it cracked me up how he kept trying to play with my camera instead of all of the other toys and props we had, LOL! Look out mom and dad... He's already got expensive taste! Enjoy the previews, it was great seeing you all as always!! :) ~Krista

" Hey lady... Just go ahead and hand over that camera would ya???"

Jude's 9 month photos : Nashville baby photographer

2011-10-13T15:00:00.000-07:00

Mr. Jude is one of my favorite little subjects, he just gets cuter by the second!! Mom and dad brought the cutest outfits for him and his Aunt even stopped by to take a few shots with him! Love it! Melanie and Nick, it was great seeing you all! See you again in a few months!!!! :) ~Krista

Ms. Lydia's newborn photos : Nashville Photographer

2011-10-13T14:50:00.000-07:00

This was Ms. Lydia's first visit into the studio yesterday, and what a sweetie pie she is!!! She was so laid back and so so sweet, I just adored her. She did make us earn our keep though, and did NOT want to sleep or stay still, LOL. But in the end we still got her to cooperate and got some adorable pictures. Emily and Lucas, congrats on your new bundle of joy! It was great meeting you all and hope to see you again soon! :) ~Krista

Vicky's previews! Nashville Photographer

2011-10-13T14:44:00.000-07:00

Vicky came into the studio yesterday to get some update photos... I loved all of the ideas she had and the outfits she brought! We had a great shoot and were able to get quite a variety of looks... Vicky, hope you love your previews! Great meeting you! ~Krista

Talia + Kevin : Wedding at Two Rivers Mansion and Hutton Hotel, Nashville Wedding Photographer

2011-10-11T21:49:00.000-07:00

Talia and Kevin couldn't have asked for a more perfect day for their wedding. They tied the knot at the historic Two Rivers Mansion in Nashville which in itself is a beautiful location, but they also lucked out with the weather being 75 and sunny.. Gorgeous! These two were so sweet together and had some pretty emotional moments throughout the day... And I'm not sure if it's just me being prego or what, but they almost got me choked up a few times (and I wasn't even the one getting married! LOL...) I just love how they were so excited to marry each other and how they adore one another.

They had an American ceremony, followed by a Persian ceremony, followed by an A-MAZING reception at Hutton Hotel. The reception hall was just glowing with candlelight and gorgeous details, I couldn't believe how pretty it was! Talia, Kevin, family and friends, it was great spending the day with you. I wish you a lifetime of happiness! Hope you enjoy the sneak peek! :) ~Krista

Addison's 1 year photos : Nashville Children's Photographer

2011-10-06T23:59:00.000-07:00

I cannot BELIEVE Ms. Addison is one already! She just gets cuter by the second, and was so easy to work with at her shoot. She has the most adorable smile, and I love how she crunches up her little face when she laughs... SO cute. We had a great shoot and got a ton of great images! Enjoy the previews!! :) ~Krista

The Yoder Fam Previews! Nashville Family Photographer

2011-10-06T22:27:00.000-07:00

I have known Jenn and Jason Yoder for quite some time now and I was so excited when they called me to do a shoot with their expanding family! This was the first time I had met the kiddos, and they are so adorable. They were both super laid back and in a great mood for the entire shoot (well, okay maybe at the end they had enough, but that was only the last 5 minutes!) Jenn and Jason, it was SO great to see you all! Thanks for bringing the crew to come see me for pictures!!!! :) ~Krista

Bri and Nolan's Engagement Photos : Nashville Photographer

2011-10-06T22:22:00.000-07:00

Bri and Nolan met me on location to do their engagement photos this week. They picked a GORGEOUS day to shoot, and I loved the outfits they brought. I am pretty sure Nolan was not excited about spending an hour doing photos (LOL, he's just like my husband!) but he was a great sport and hung in there for the entire hour long shoot. Bri and Nolan, it was so fun working with you all, hope you love your previews! ~Krista

Ara's Headshot Previews: Nashville Headshot Photographer

2011-10-06T22:05:00.000-07:00

Ms. Ara came in to the studio this week for some headshots and we had a fabulous shoot! She is a senior in high school and is hoping to pursue musical theater in college. She needed some shots to use in her applications. Ara brought some gorgeous colors to wear and I just loved how her blue eyes just sparkled in the photos!!! Ara and Aimee, it was GREAT meeting you! Hope you love your previews!

~Krista

Makeup and hair by Stephanie Russell :) :)

Jack's One Year : Nashville Children's Photographer

2011-10-06T19:11:00.000-07:00

Mr. Jack is so much fun to photograph. He is all-100% little man and he is SO stinking cute. We had a great shoot and while it was a bit hard to get him to stop playing with his rocks (LOL) AND get him to sit still for a second, we still managed to get plenty of great images!!! Although he looks like a mini man, I can't believe how much he still resembles big sis Katie- that smile and those cute little front teeth are almost identical to hers! LOVE it. Shannon, it was great seeing you all as always, enjoy the previews!!! :) ~Krista

Featured on Rustic Wedding Chic Today!

2011-10-06T12:26:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! We have been lucky enough to be featured on tons of other blogs lately.... Including Ashley's Bride Guide, The Lovely Find, and today we are being on the amazing Rustic Wedding Chic blog!!! Check it out when you have a sec and congrats to Jenifer and Jonathan Helm and Angela Proffitt for having their AMAZING wedding featured!!!!

Michael + Amber, An absolute fairytale wedding : Biltmore Wedding Photography

2011-10-05T22:40:00.000-07:00

All of us girls when we are little bitty dream of growing up to be a beautiful princess... one day meeting our charming prince.... getting married in a castle... and then living happily ever after in a magical fairytale world.

When I tell you that Amber and Michael's wedding day at the Biltmore was almost exactly that, I am not exaggerating.

Words cannot even begin to describe how awesome their day was.

Michael and Amber, I wish you a lifetime of happiness! You two are so so so perfect for each other and I was honored to spend the day with you and your family. Hope you love the previews!!! :) ~Krista

Farm shoots! Book now!!!

2011-09-30T09:27:00.000-07:00

Hey all! If you need family photos for your Christmas card etc, you NEED to book a time slot with us for the farm days! I am renting vintage furniture, a vintage wagon, farm-esque props like loads of apples and apple boxes and the location is A-MAZING... Tall fields of grass, beautiful dirt roads and a cool old barn/ vintage outbuildings! You cannot get this type of look just coming into the studio!!!!

MacKenzie + Wil, Cedarwood Wedding : Nashville Wedding Photographer

2011-09-27T23:08:00.000-07:00

MacKenzie and Will have to be the SWEETEST, most genuine couple this side of the Mississippi. From the moment I met them they were just dripping with love and adoration for each other and I knew their day would be extra special. They tied the knot at the perfectly beautiful Cedarwood, in which MacKenzie's aunt Linda is an owner (how lucky is she??!!!) MacKenzie chose a gorgeous color palette of greens, yellows and cremes. I don't see this palette done very often, and I was completely wow'ed with how it turned out! The bird cages, paper lanterns and shabby chic decor complemented everything perfectly, and they were blessed with a cool and sunny fall day. MacKenzie glowed in her vintage gown, and both her and Wil just were bursting with love for each other, it was SO cute! As always, the Cedarwood staff did a flawless job, and not a detail was missed!

MacKenzie, Wil, family and friends, it was so great spending the day with you! Thank you for letting me be a part of it, and I hope you love your previews! ~Krista

Amanda + Michael, Christ the King Wedding + Loveless Barn Reception : Nashville Wedding Photographer

2011-09-26T10:19:00.000-07:00

Michael and Amanda tied the knot this weekend at Christ the King church on Belmont, and then had their reception at Loveless Barn in West Nashville! It was a beautiful day, and they were so cute together. Amanda has a gorgeous smile that is so contagious and Michael is hilarious and kept everyone laughing the entire day. They make the best couple and I was honored to be a part of their big day!

I loved the fall themed colors and decor that they chose for all of their decorations!!! Loveless Barn was decked out in lanterns and country-esque details. The kids had a blast on the dance floor and playing cornhole outside and the DJ Michael Hale kept the party going!

Michael and Amanda, friends and fam, it was great spending the day with you! Hope you love your sneak peeks! ~Krista

Out of all of their bride and groom photos, I think this next one is my favorite! HAHAHA!

Kasia + Mark : Cafe La Cave, Polska Misja pw. Milosierdzia Bozego w Lombard - Chicago Wedding Photographer

2011-09-23T10:55:00.000-07:00

What an AMAZING day in Chicago this past weekend!!! Kasia and Mark tied the knot on a beautiful day at a Polish church and then had their reception at Cafe La Cave, a gorgeous and extravagant banquet hall. Not only are they both totally photogenic, I just LOVED the purple accent colors they chose for their wedding decor. It also was great to be part of a Polish wedding as there are so many unique traditions that go along with the culture (although it would have helped if I knew Polish, LOL!) Their families were so gracious and everyone had a crazy fun time at the reception :) :) Kasia and Mark, thank you SO much for picking me to capture your amazing day! I hope you love your previews!!! More soon!!! ~Krista

The cutest little munchkins on the face of this planet : Nashville Baby Photographer

2011-09-15T09:19:00.000-07:00

I just adore my clients. And these little munchkins were so stinking cute I could have taken pictures of them all day long!!!

Eleanor came in for her 9 month photos this week and she is just as sweet is the day is long. She constantly smiles, and her personality is just so laid back and adorable, I just LOVE seeing her name on my schedule! Love the outfits mom brought, and love her big blue eyes!!!! It was great seeing you all!!!!

It was Isidore's first visit into the studio, and her mom could be a baby stylist... She brought the CUTEST outfits for little Isidore. Mom was worried we wouldn't get any smiles out of her as in the past Isidore hasn't really wanted to show off her little dimples when the camera was out. But she danced and smiled and gave us a real show the entire shoot and was a dream to work with! What a sweetie pie!!! Hope you all LOVE your previews and see you again soon!!! ~Krista

Recent Headshot Sessions: Erica, Lindsay, and Christy! Nashville Headshot Photographer

2011-09-15T08:47:00.000-07:00

We have had some gorgeous gals through the studio this week to get updated headshots for their acting/modeling/pageant needs! It was great meeting you all and hope you love your sneak peeks!!! :)

~Krista

Pamela + Nate : Nashville Maternity Photographer

2011-09-15T08:42:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of photographing Pamela and Nate's wedding over five years ago and I was so happy to hear that they are now expecting! Baby Madelyn is due shortly, but Pamela was put on bed rest as she unfortunately went into premature labor. So instead of them making the journey to the studio, I met them at their house for a short session! Across the street is a beautiful field that we took advantage of... And I love the way the photos turned out! Pamela and Nate, it was great seeing you and meeting all the members of your family! :) Cannot WAIT to meet Madelyn!!! ~Krista

Braxton's 2 year photos : Nashville Children's Photographer

2011-09-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how fast these little ones grow... Seems like just yesterday I was photographing Braxton's mom and dad's gorgeous wedding! He is now 2 years old and just gets cuter by the second. Because we have done so many sessions at the studio, we met at Centennial Park to do some different photos. Mom Amber wanted to capture him playing with his favorite toys and with his Aunt (aww!) Braxton is at the age though where his favorite word is "NO!" (LOL!) so he made us work for it a bit.... but we still got some great shots of him :) Amber and Philip, it was great to see you all!!! See you again soon! ~Krista

Sloane + David : Scarritt Bennett / W.O. Smith / Hutton Hotel : Nashville Wedding Photographer

2011-09-12T22:24:00.000-07:00

Sloane and Dave have gotten to be 2 of my favorite people over the past year. They booked me last year for their wedding and engagement photos, and I have had the pleasure of getting to know them between our wedding planning and engagement session!! :) :) Sloane spent an extraordinary amount of time and effort planning every detail of her wedding day with her amazing and talented wedding planner Meredith Zeller, and the result paid off with a picture perfect... amazing... flawless day! Sloane looked absolutely breathtaking in her gown, complete with amazing Steve Madden shoes and a custom bracelet. Sloane and Dave wanted an old Hollywood vibe for the decor, and I just LOVED everything they chose... From the black bridesmaid dresses and chic creme roses to the AWESOME chandeliers and black and white decor at the reception. The band Bueller played after dinner and threw DOWN with the crowd! It was hilarious and so so fun for all involved!!!

Sloane, Dave, friends and fam... I had a great time spending the day with you! Thank you so much for allowing me to be a part of it and I hope you love your previews!!! :) ~Krista

How awesome is that bracelet???

Mom helping Sloane with her earrings... Awww :) :)

Dave prepping and relaxing before the big event!

LOVE the shoes

How gorgeous is Sloane???!!

Dave's not too hard on the eyes either!!! You all will have the CUTEST kiddos .. .LOL

The boys

Sloane and Dave decided NOT to see each other before the ceremony... but we did have them hold hands :)

This next shot is one of my favorites from the day, HA!!!

Decor at the ceremony

I just ADORE the way these two look at each other...

W.O. Smith is such an architecturally amazing building... Great spot for the reception!

The favors/plate chargers... How unique!

Let the party begin.... !

Group hug!

Cake: Dawn Stoika
Caterer: Bacon and Caviar
Wedding coordinator : Meredith Zeller, Bridal Blueprints
Band: Bueller
Lighting: Nashville Event Lighting
Florist: Melissa Spaid
Hair and Makeup: Lauren Henry and Katie McLaren
Videographer: Tyler Barksdale
Photographer: Yours truly :)

Attention Clients!

2011-09-08T15:36:00.000-07:00

Hey all! Just a quick note to let you know if you are planning on scheduling an appointment with us before the end of the year (especially for family photos) PLEASE schedule it as soon as possible. We are filling up FAST for the rest of the year and if you wait until October or November to schedule, we very well may be full already. Thanks and look forward to seeing your smiling faces soon! :) ~Krista

Rachel's headshot previews : Nashville Headshot Photographer

2011-09-08T11:30:00.000-07:00

Rachel came in today to get some updated actor/model headshots for AMAX, the agency she has been signed with! She drove a couple of hours to come shoot with me, and I was amazed at how well her hair and makeup held up for the long car ride... We had a great shoot and I thought we got a ton of great shots! Rachel, it was great meeting you! I hope you love your sneak peeks and hope to work with you again!!! :) ~Krista

The Taylor Clan + Welcome Ms. Ivy!!! Nashville Children's Photographer

2011-09-07T21:54:00.000-07:00

One of my best friends brought her clan in today for some family photos and I swear, this family just gets more photogenic by the second. Ms. Ivy was born 7 days ago so Katie wanted a few photos of her by herself, then some group and combination photos. The 2 boys have been photographed like crazy so I tried to focus on some different shots this time! I do have to say, they win the award for quickest family photo EVER with 4 kids and 2 adults... We got everyone in the fam to look, smile and not blink within literally 30 seconds.. Can you believe it? Katie, Josh, and crew, it was SO great to see you all and meet Ivy! I'll see you soon! :) ~Krista

I am in LOVE with these stockings, how stinking cute are they?!

Quickest family photo EVER

Ms. Harper...

SO sweet.. .Harper and Dad...

I just LOVE the expression on this next one, ahahahahaha! She's like, "C'mon already, lady!"

We had to work HARD for this shot.. She did not want to sleep (which makes it so much harder to shoot a newborn kiddo!) but, I have to say that she might be one of the most mellow babies I have worked with.. We kept messing with her over and over again trying to get her in a few positions and she never cried or even got upset! So sweet.

No offense Katie, but kinda hoping Ivy gets Josh's eyes ;) LOL

Haley's headshots : Nashville Headshot Photographer

2011-09-07T21:31:00.000-07:00

Haley is a local nurse practitioner who specializes in facial rejuvenation products (ummm YES please!!). She came in today for a headshot session for her new website. She was so fun to work with and photographed amazingly well! Haley, when you have your new website up and running you must send me a link so that I can feature you on the blog!!! :) Great meeting you and hope you love your previews! ~Krista

Eli's RR track photos :) :) Nashville Children's Photographer

2011-09-07T21:25:00.000-07:00

Many of you have gotten to know Rachel (or at least her voice, that is!) who works with us... She is the super organized gal that you talk to when you call in to schedule your appointments (isn't she awesome?) Anywho, we have made a small tradition doing pics of all of her kiddos on the railroad tracks and today (sniff, sniff) we finished the series of railroad track photos with their youngest, Mr. Eli. Check out him working his model moves... Isn't he the cutest? And I especially love the shot of him and big sis Alaina Claire walking away, that's a framer!

Quinn and Avril's previews! Nashville Children's Photographer

2011-09-07T21:16:00.000-07:00

Quinn and big sis Avril came in for photos today, and I could not believe how much little Quinn has grown in the past 3 months! Mom brought the cutest little outfits and bows for her and we had a great shoot. Avril took a few minutes to warm up, but after a bit we couldn't hardly keep her OUT of the photos, LOL! Loved seeing you all, see you again in 3 more months!!! :) ~Krista

Photos from a recent shoot featured in CMT ads! Nashville Photographer

2011-09-06T18:55:00.000-07:00

Some photos and a video clip from my recent photo shoot for the Sweet Home Alabama television series are now being featured in many of the CMT ads! I had SO much fun working with Devin, Adam and Tribble and we had a great shoot! Not only are they all super photogenic, they are all hilarious and have great personalities. If you have not checked this show out, you must watch it! (Look out, it's addicting!!!!) The new season starts October 20th!

10 Tips on how to make your wedding photographs the best they can be : Notes from the trenches

2011-08-28T19:55:00.000-07:00

I know that there are a million articles on do's and don'ts when it comes to your wedding photography. But being that I am down in the trenches every weekend, with hundreds of weddings now under my belt I thought I might write a very frank article on the most common issues I see on a regular basis. Take it or leave it, but I see these issues WAY too often and they can make or break your photos! As your photographer, you and I have the same goal: to end the day stress free, happy, and with gorgeous photos! We want nothing more than to capture you at your best. Here are some situations to avoid.

Mistake #1: Not enough time for hair and makeup- Girls, just saying. No matter WHAT your friend/makeup artist/know-it-all whomever claims, it usually takes at least 45 minutes PER PERSON for hair and makeup. If you have 6 girls and one makeup and hair person, that means bare minimum 4.5 hours. I see SO SO SO many people underestimate this. Just remember you are on a very tight time schedule that day! If this runs behind, basically you're screwed. Because then you are late starting everything else and there normally is not any wiggle room the day of! Not only does it mess up everyone's schedules, it really can stress you out (and your photographer/minister/family/

etc!) Why not have your girls come early that morning, have lunch delivered and pop open a bottle of champagne and CHILL? If you end up getting done a little early, all the better. It's not worth the risk and stress to cram it in to less time. Trust me.

Mistake #2: All the bridesmaids are ready BUT the bride isn't ready in time- Ideally, yes it would be nice if the bride was the last one to get hair and makeup done so she could be nice and fresh. But just remember if anyone runs behind or takes longer than expected, guess who is the one getting the shaft? Yep, you... The bride. The one who is supposed to look the most gorgeous and the least stressed on your big day! And usually the photographer will start with the bride's photos FIRST so this can really mess up the ENTIRE day. Don't you want gorgeous photos of your happy, unstressed self? Don't go last. Just don't do it. Try being in the middle, you can always have your makeup and hair touched up before you walk out the door :)

Mistake #3: LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION. Hey, lets just face it. Us photographers are NOT magicians. We cannot transform an ugly room into some fantastic scene out of a fairytale. Let's start with the getting ready room. So many people don't even consider this in their plans. Yes, the children's room downstairs below the church is a nice and affordable way to go. But when the background is cluttered with books, kids toys, folding tables, crappy chairs and flourescent lights overhead... I mean, there just ain't much I can do about it. I don't personally know the folks on HGTV who can swoop in on a moment's notice, move everything out, renovate and repaint in 2 hours so your room looks amazing. No matter how awesome of a lens I use, I can't make that junk magically disappear. It's GOING to show in the background of your photo and it's NOT gonna be pretty. Here's an idea. Go look at local hotels and rent a room for the day. It will cost you $100-200 dollars and it will make all the difference in the getting ready photos. I prefer suites or adjoining rooms where you have plenty of room for everyone to setup and spread out. Four things to look for before you book the room :

1) Ample room for everyone
2) A pretty room. Not some 1970's ugly crappy decor.
3) Big windows, at least bare minimum one very large window. This makes the photos look oh-so much better when you have a little natural light to work with. I have some secrets about that (that I'm not going to share here because I don't want every other photog in the world stealing my techniques) but let's just say it helps immensely to have some backlighting and natural light to work with.
4) No brightly colored walls. Or at most, one brightly colored wall with the rest being neutral. Red or green or any brightly colored walls that are not neutral can cause major color issues in your photos. Try for nice bright rooms with neutral colors. Bed spread and other decor is fine being colored.

Mistake #4: LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION part II. Again, we're not magicians. If you choose an auditorium styled church where everything is super generic and has horrible lighting (meaning just overhead lights), we can't magically transform that into a beautiful, lavish wonderland of wedding day bliss. Putting a few candleabras and flower sprigs in the sanctuary is NOT going to change that. Most newer churches sport steel chairs with cushions and ugly carpet. The lighting works great for their services but is awful in photos. There are always exceptions to the rule, but in general this is the case. If you really think your particular church is going to be an exception to the rule, be sure to search out photos of ceremonies done there in the past. Then obviously make sure you like the way they look.

Mistake #5: Outdoor ceremonies/receptions in August or late July. I don't know how many times I have been asked to photograph weddings that will be entirely outside in the middle of August. I guess possibly if you live in Alaska or at the top of a mountain this may work, but in most places in the United States this time of the year is just pure misery. At this point in my career I usually turn these weddings down, and I am sure I have ticked off a few prospective clients by now. But in all honestly, the chances of me taking pleasing and beautiful photos in this type of environment are slim to none. My chances of the bride loving the photos are almost non-existent. The few weddings I have shot in these conditions... Well let's just say everyone had grimaces on their faces, sweat soaking through their expensive gowns and tuxes, and their hair was soaking wet with sweat dripping down their faces. Pure loveliness! Don't do this to your guests, especially your 80 year old grandparents. Please. It's just not fun for anyone.

Mistake #6: Outdoor ceremonies at high noon. Another mistake I see commonly. Yes, it is tempting when a venue offers you a time slot earlier in the day for a lesser amount of money. But if you are at all concerned with how the photos will work, don't do it. High noon is when the sun is high overhead, and unless your ceremony is under a covered pavilion you are going to have awful raccoon eyes and shadows under everyone's eyes. No matter what angle we shoot from, the sun and lighting will be harsh and unflattering. I just can't do anything about it to make them more pleasing, and I want my clients to look amazing in their photos, not harsh! Bottom line: Say NO to NOON!

Mistake #7 : Outdoor ceremonies with sun in the wrong spot. If you are getting married outside later in the afternoon but before sunset, I highly recommend making sure that the sun will be behind you as you stand up at the altar facing your guests. Doesn't have to be DIRECTLY behind you, but close to it. Otherwise you are going to have one half of your face in bright sunlight and the other half in shadow, which again does not look all that flattering :) Or if the sun is shining directly into your face, you are going to have a *lovely* grimace/squinty look on your face. Backlit photos in my humble opinion are much prettier!

Mistake #8: Family members and bridal party don't know what time they need to be ready for photos. I know that not everyone can afford a wedding planner. Although definitely an amazing perk to have, many brides on a budget end up planning everything themselves. One common mistake is not letting each person involved in photos know when and where they need to be. As part of my service, I do a pre-wedding day planning session where we talk about the timeline, where people need to be, and many other details. I then send out the timeline to the bride for her to forward to everyone involved. Many other photographers do not do this though, and if you don't have a planner it's easy to overlook letting folks know the proper times to be ready. You can either send out an email with the times, or even better, hand out colored cards the night before at the rehearsal dinner with the time and place each person needs to be ready for photos. If you don't prepare everyone, much valuable time can be wasted on your wedding day as we try to hunt down mom or uncle so-and-so for their photos!

Mistake #9: Not allowing enough time for photos. If you want amazing photos from your wedding day, you MUST let your photographer have ample time to make these happen! If your photographer is stressed from the time crunch and doesn't have time to be creative at all, your photos will not turn out nearly as well as if we have time to create masterpieces :) I am not a big advocate of photos taking 5 or 6 hours obviously, or keeping your guests waiting at the reception all night while you do thousands of photos. But that being said, I cannot make magic happen in 2 minutes flat. Typically for an average wedding, where the bride and groom do NOT see each other before hand, this is the bare minimum amount of time I allow for photos:

Before the ceremony:
-Bridal photos (bride by herself) : 15 minutes
-Bride with bridesmaids and individuals with each bridesmaid : 15 minutes
-Bride with family members : 15 minutes
= For a total of 45 minutes with the bride

Same is true for the groom, for a total of 45 minutes with the groom.

After the ceremony:
- Large group family photos and different combinations: at least 20 minutes depending on how large the family is and how many different combinations are requested
- Large group photos of bridal party, a few different combinations : 10 minutes
- Bride and groom photos: 20 minutes minimum
= total of 50 minutes after the ceremony.

Keep in mind that if your bridal party arrives late for any reason, or if people are MIA and we cannot find them, this can really mess up your schedule and you may not get all of the photos you would like. If possible, build in a little wiggle room just in case.

Mistake #10: Not hiring a seasoned wedding photographer (and other seasoned wedding professionals for that matter). I am definitely not trying to devalue other photographers as we all have to start somewhere. But please, for the love of God, don't hire someone who isn't full time and hasn't been doing weddings successfully for at least a few years. I don't care if you hire them to do your kiddos photos. Or your engagement photos. Or ANYTHING else for that matter. But your wedding cannot be re-done. If they screw it up, you can't do it over. I studied with Joe McNally (the renowned National Geographic photographer) and the following is a quick story he told us that I won't ever forget. He said, "Many photographers today have great marketing and good images on their website. But how many can actually walk the walk and talk the talk? Let me tell you a story to demonstrate. I am NOT a championship basketball player. But if I hired a photographer or film crew and spent ALL day on a court attempting to do some crazy moves, I bet you I could get a few good shots in after spending all day trying. Then I could go and buy a website and some marketing materials and put these photos and film up on the site. Would people believe I had talent? Of course. Could I replicate these photos and moves every day on a regular basis? Heck no. If I went up against a true pro, would I have any chance? Again, no."

The point is, anyone with some vision can get some decent images to post on their site. But can they capture your entire day and guarantee that every image is great? Probably not. I highly encourage you to view a few ENTIRE weddings that they have done (meaning ALL of the images from that wedding, from start to finish). I can't tell you how many people have come to me saying they wished they had hired me as their photographer because the person they hired (who had a great website and great images on said website) got 3 good images, but the rest were total crap. Just be careful.

Just remember, proper planning can make all of the difference in the world when it comes to your wedding photography! Obviously hiring competent professionals with a winning track record plays a big part in this. I sincerely hope that you have an amazing and stress free wedding day, and hope that you have gathered a helpful pointer or two from this article!

~Krista

Will's headshot sneak peeks : Nashville headshot Photographer

2011-08-26T09:19:00.000-07:00

Will is a local actor who just signed with a new agent and needed some headshots! He wanted a variety of smiling shots and some more serious shots. He was super photogenic and we had a lot of fun at his shoot. I especially love the grey long sleeve shirt with the metal background! Enjoy your previews and it was great meeting you Will! :) ~Krista

Kasey's Senior Pictures : Nashville Photographer

2011-08-26T09:12:00.000-07:00

Kasey is a senior at Brentwood high this year and came to meet me for some senior pictures at Centennial Park here in Nashville. She is adorable and has such a fun personality! She totally kept her cool despite the almost 100 degree weather outside (you can't even tell she's hot = Supermodel material!) Loved all of the outfits she brought! Hope you love your sneak peeks Kasey, it was great meeting you and great seeing your mom Sandy as well!

Photo Previews: Mr. Finn's 18 month! Nashville Photographer

2011-08-26T09:07:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe sweet little Finn is already 18 months old. I have been photographing his family for a long time now, and I swear they just get cuter by the second! LOVE the outfits Rachel (his mom) brought for him, and even though he was a bit shy today we still got some really adorable shots! Enjoy the previews!

Amqui Station : Nashville's newest wedding venue!

2011-08-24T23:59:00.000-07:00

I don't normally post on just individual locations around town, but I have to tell you, I am in love with this particular one! I am secretly hoping that some of my brides who are still looking for venues will book this place. What is it you say? Well, here's the short story.... Amqui Station is the old train depot that used to be in Madison in the early 1900's. Frequented by thousands of travelers, this depot eventually got dilapidated and run down. They planned to tear it down when country music legend Johnny Cash caught wind of the story. He had a love for trains and decided to purchase the old station and moved it to his personal property. There it stood until his death several years ago. The city of Madison decided to bring it back to it's home town, restored it and built a beautiful new pavilion and visitor's center around it.

images provided by Amqui Station website

So, why do I think you should book this for your wedding?
A) it's CHEAP. I mean, REALLY cheap.
B) It has SO much unique history behind it.
C) You have very cool historic areas to shoot (the switching station upstairs? how freaking cool is that!) combined with modern amenities (a brand new pavilion, brand new visitors center complete with new bathrooms, meeting rooms, etc)
D) You can stake the lawn for tents, so if the train depot itself is a little too small for your big wedding, no worries! Just add a tent or two and carry on!
E) The color palette of the station is just beautiful and perfect to combine with your wedding decor. I love the peachy tones, combined with taupe-y colors, light greys and cremes. The available light is gorgeous and will photograph fantastically.
F) The coordinator there is super sweet and easy to work with. Her name is Ashley Bright and her email is: ashleybright77@gmail.com

and their website is HERE

Here are some snapshots I took while visiting.

Lizamarie + Dave : A Perfect Wedding at Hermitage Hotel! Nashville Wedding Photographer

2011-08-23T20:58:00.000-07:00

I know I say this over and over again... But seriously, how do I manage to get the greatest clients in the entire world? I just absolutely LOVED everything about Lizamarie and Dave's big day at Hermitage Hotel here in Nashville. The bride and groom were both extremely photogenic, the colors and decor they chose were just gorgeous and oozing with style, not to mention the Hermitage is one of the most beautiful and historic buildings here in Nashville. It was a photographer's dream! Here are a few sneak peeks for you all, more soon!!!

How DELICIOUS were these shoes and A-Mazing flowers? SO perfect and so gorgeous!

The girls getting ready :)

Loved the different color ties! Unique without being too overwhelming....

The flower girl!!! All I can say is Awwwwww! Those pudgy little cheeks are to die for!!!

Lizamarie in her dress = stunning!

David the handsome groom...

The light... OH the light was AWESOME on Saturday. I just love when I can hunt out amazing little slivers of natural light....

How gorgeous are these details?

Last but not least, a specific photo requested by Lizamarie and David! Love it!

Their Awesome Vendors:

Oshi Flowers
Savannah Tea Company - Cake
The remedies - band
Hair and makeup- salon Pnash

Lizamarie and Dave, family and friends, it was great sharing your big day with you! Thanks for trusting us with the biggest day of your life! Hope you love your previews! :) ~Krista

Shoots from this week: Newbies! Nashville Photographer

2011-08-19T10:23:00.000-07:00

I have a MILLION friends and clients who are about to be having babies and can I tell you how excited I am about it? So excited for everyone and I cannot wait to meet all of these babies! This week starts the avalanche of kiddos that are about to head my way! In preparation, I have been stocking up on all kinds of fun newborn props (how much do you love the sleepy owl hand knitted hats??) Here are some previews from yesterday's shoots :)

Ms. Madeline...... Isn't she the sweetest? Her mom and dad are friends of mine and I am so happy for them! She is absolutely precious.

with "Mama Mia" ... Love it

Above: with mom and dad! Below: Dad played college baseball and brought along this awesome mitt!

Up next... Mr. Dexter... He was so laid back and adorable! I shot his mom and dad's wedding a few years ago and I loved seeing them again with this new addition to the fam!

Dad is an optometrist... LOVE the glasses they brought hahahaha!!!!

And Mr. Will... Already a flirt at 8 days old! HA!

Love the football hat

It was great seeing you all! Hope you love the previews and we'll see you in a few months! ~Krista

Repost: Barbie and Ken : Beatrice De Guigne's photo shoot

2011-08-15T09:22:00.000-07:00

This may be one of the FUNNIEST posts I have seen in a long time and I just had to repost... From French Photographer Beatrice De Guigne... (click her link to see the full post, guaranteed to make you laugh!!!) From her blog:

"Today it’s a very special wedding I would like to show you. Yes, you read correctly the title, it’s Barbie and Ken’s wedding!!!
You knew my last collaboration with Barbie for her artistic and boudoir photos (here, here et here)
Discover now their wedding day! Like all weddings, preparations were long (I’ll doing another article later), stress was at its height, excitement has sometimes taken over, but that’s it they did! They said yes I do!
They are beautiful, they are international stars, and they trusted me to capture this great day, thank you."