Jessica Charles Photography

Tiffany & Michael - Anniversary Shoot

2012-01-25T16:53:00.001-05:00

Last year I had the honor shooting this totally awesome wedding for Tiffany & Michael. It had to be one of the most special, beautiful, creative wedding I've been to. It was a New Year's wedding held at Phillipe Park under this amaaazing tree. I was SO happy to hear from Tiffany a year later, wanting to do an anniversary shoot at their wedding location!! Knowing her creative eye, I knew it was going to be just perfect.

Under the tree where they got married.

This is a mashup of both of their vows, which hangs proudly in their home.

And what would an anniversary be without sharing some cake. Cute cake topper included!!

I couldn't wait to put these side by side. Wedding day & present day.

Congratulations on your anniversary!!! Yall are the cuuuutest! I had a blast working with yall again!

Rachel & Geoff are MARRIED!! NYE Wedding!!

2012-01-24T14:46:00.001-05:00

Rachel & Geoff have a great story. One of my favorites that I've ever heard! And it all started around the Karate Kid. You heard it right. The Karate Kid theme song, in fact. Rachel overheard Geoff talking to one of his friends about the song, and was singing "You're the best around.. nananannaa." And he was saying how that's a weird song because nobody knew the rest of the words to that song. Rachel popped in and said "Um... I do." He thought that was hilarious, and she taught him the words to the song. And with that, "You're the best around" became their joke.

Geoff planned to propose on their two year anniversary in Baltimore, the place where they met and fell in love. He bought the ring... and hid it from Rachel in the attic (this might have been excessive, but Geoff wasn't taking any chances). They bought the plane tickets and planned a romantic day to celebrate their anniversary. Geoff took Rachel to their favorite breakfast place in Baltimore, took a boat tour, had a romantic couples massage and then, they set out for their "Fall" hike. In an unexpected heat spell, the weather was approximately 90 degrees, which wasn't quite what Geoff had in mind--but he rolled with it. He had timed the hike to finish just before the grand finale, a private plane he had chartered to fly past the lookout spot with a special banner meant for Rachel.

Rachel, not knowing the plan, decided the "hike" could be more of a "trail run". She ran the trails, urging Geoff to "come on" and "hurry up"--thinking they were doing a workout. The speed left Geoff with about 45 minutes to kill once they reached the top. He tried a lot of distractions, and amazingly, Rachel agreed to sit on the lookout until... she finally saw the banner approaching. "You're the best around. Na Na Na Na Na". Geoff had a speech on a note card (that he didn't actually use) and he asked her to marry him.

Badgley Mischka has my heart.

I loved that Rachel incorporated her grandmother's shoe brooch.

The book where they wrote down their vows to read at the ceremony & to keep forever. So sweet, I wish I did this at my wedding.

I love the mix & match of sparkly shoes. So perfect for New Year's Eve!

Hair and makeup was outstanding! I've never seen hair as such an art piece! Destiny and Light Hair and Makeup Group rocked!

I'm head over heels for these robes. What a great bridesmaid gift, right? Love, love, love!! Find them online at http://store.plumprettysugar.com/

I just love first looks, don't you?

Rachel told her bridesmaids to find any short, silver sequined dress to wear. I LOVE this mix & match idea!! It turned out so super cute, and very fitting for the NYE wedding!

Cupcakes by The Cupcake Spot.. Only the most amazing cupcakes in the Tampa Bay area! Chocolate Better Thans are my favorites, btw.

Geoff and Rachel had three amazing food stations. Cuban, Asian & Greek. Freaking fantastic & some of the best wedding food I've ever had. Catering by Robert is exceptional, and they also do event planning! And how precious are those posters? Yes, that is Rachel & Geoff in them!!

They even had a coke float station! I loved this awesome idea!

Looking at Downtown Tampa from Davis Island. Beautiful view!

Stay tuned for Larisa's wedding coming up this summer!

And it was time for the countdown... 3..2..1.. Happy New Year, Mr. & Mrs. Jackson!!

It was midnight, so it was really dark, but I could see that the fireworks left a haze over the city. I turned the shutter speed really slow, and viola.

What an amazing, one of a kind wedding to be a part of. It was an honor, complete honor.

Dress- Martina Liana at CC's Boutique in St. Petersburg, FL.
Venue- Davis Island Garden Club
Robes- Plum Pretty Sugar

Decor, Planning & Catering- Susan Stalnaker with Catering by Robert

DJ- Eladio with DeLite Entertainment

Flowers- Events in Bloom
Hair & Makeup- Destiny and Light Hair and Makeup Group
Cupcakes- The Cupcake Spot

Top tier wedding cake- Publix
Lighting- Tampa Lights

The Unplugged Wedding by Nicole Clark

2012-01-19T00:32:00.000-05:00

Wedding guests playing photographer. It's been a pet peeve of mine since the beginning for so many reasons. I was so thrilled when one of my brides, Nicole Clark, told me she was having an UNPLUGGED wedding. At first, I've never even heard of this term and she had to explain it to me. When I knew what it was, I wanted to give her the biggest hug I've ever given! It was like Christmas for me, and this was the best gift she could ever give me. After reading an article about unplugged weddings, I asked Nicole if she could write a blog for me, from her perspective as an unplugged bride. And because she's awesome, she agreed and wrote this AMAZING post. I present to you, Nicole Clark, the Unplugged Bride.

.........................................................................................

Many of us are guilty of becoming an amateur paparazzi, hiding behind the camera to capture the moments of our loved ones on their wedding day. But it wasn't until I was planning my own wedding that I actually realized how obnoxious it can be.

When our friends and family members heard about our decision to have an unplugged wedding, we got the same 2 questions, in order, every time. The first; "What is an unplugged wedding?" An unplugged wedding is where the bride and groom request that their guests put their cell phones away, silenced or off as well as their cameras.

The second question was always, "Why can't I take my own pictures?". The reasons can vary from each couple and their feelings towards this issue. Some choose to do so because they don't want anyone beating them to the punch by posting photos on social networking sites. Let's face it, this can cause a lot of issues, especially if someone happens to post a picture of the bride or groom before they even see each other. For others, it can be an issue of distraction because who really wants to hear the sound of all those cameras snapping away as you say your vows to your husband or wife. Some couple want their ceremony to be a private and sacred event so cameras are banned to uphold the wishes of the couple. For others, it's a control issue because they want to be the only ones distributing photos of their wedding.

Our reasons were a bit different.

When we told our family that we were having an unplugged wedding, we were asked why and people even got upset to the point to argue. We got married in front of a giant fish tank in low lighting and we knew that most people would not think and use their flash. That would cause a reflection off the tank, thus ruining the professional pictures we were paying for.

That reason was not simple enough because the general response was "Well, I just wont use a flash". yeah, doubtful.

To tell you the truth, even if we had picked a different venue, our decision would still be the same. For me, it was about respect for my photographers. You spend so much time seeking out a professional that best suits your needs, vision and budget, do you really want your memories to be ruined by Aunt Sally, Cousin Joe and anyone else sticking their camera in the air which will more than likely block your photographers view?

These people are professionals and it is their job is to blend into the back round and get those special shots that will last a lifetime. Most guests don't even realize they are even in the way. It makes your photographer's job difficult when they have to try to dodge all the guests taking their own pictures so they can get the shots you are paying for.

We also chose this because because we wanted our guests to emerge from behind their electronics and be fully present in the moment with us. This is such a special time for the couple so the friends and family should do nothing but enjoy being witnesses to the union of husband to wife. They can always request or order copies of all the photos at a later date.

Most couples only think about the the ceremony and reception but what about during the "posed" photos?

Think of it this way, would you want someone watching over your shoulder as you work? So we took it one step further with the "ban on electronics". As most families do, I knew my parents and grandparents would attempt to get their own pictures during the times we were taking family formals or wedding party photos. This is something most photographers hate whether they say it or not, so I wanted to prevent it.

Implementing this request helped our photographers to do their jobs with the freedom of knowing that our guests weren't going to be a problem to overcome. In my opinion, it helped everything to run a bit smoother and we were left with beautiful memories and the photos to show it. We did not ban cameras at the reception but by that time, nobody was worried about taking pictures and I have never seen my family enjoy themselves so much without the need to take pictures.

It has been over 2 months since my wedding and we are still getting remarks from our guests saying things like they never realized how distracting it is to be a shutterbug at other weddings.

I hope after reading this, more couples will chose to help themselves and their photographers by having an unplugged wedding, or at least as a guest, remember to put those cameras away and stay in the moment. Remember, the bride and groom have hired and paid for a professional for a reason so relax and let them do their jobs!

~ Nicole ~

Raquel & Daniel

2012-01-05T14:49:00.002-05:00

My very first wedding I ever worked was third shooting for Timothy Capp Photography. I was so nervous, really having no idea what I was doing. At that wedding, I met a girl, Raquel from Raquel Sergio Photography. She was Tim's second shooter. We very, very quickly formed a bond over our favorite wedding photographer, Jasmine Star. After that wedding, Raquel and I kept in touch and formed an even tighter friendship. Now, I can't imagine my life without her & my day is incomplete when I don't get to talk to my bff, Raquel.
Over the past two & a half years, I can't tell you how much I've learned from this girl. She's given me confidence to keep learning and practice what I learn. She's been all ears when I need to let off steam. She's been my company when I needed someone by my side. She is such a strong christian woman. God is her #1, and it shows in every aspect of her life. I completely admire her for the person she is.
She asked me recently if I could take pictures of her & her husband for both their personal use and business use. I couldn't be more happy & honored. Raquel's husband, Daniel just accepted a new position as the lead worship leader at Cornerstone Community Church in St. Petersburg. I'm so excited about this new start for the both of them. They absolutely deserve this!!

I think this may be in my top 5 pictures ever. Super sweet.

Work it, work it, work it...

Meredith & John are ENGAGED!!

2012-01-03T20:51:00.002-05:00

I'm loving some Meredith & John. I got so excited when she brought up bowling at Splitsville for their engagement shoot. How fun! I've never done that before! We had suuuuch a fun time.. bowling, eating sushi & fries, hanging out.. Man, I could do this every day. I'm just glad they didn't ask ME to bowl. It's pretty embarrassing...Grandma-shot style.

Tell me, doesn't Meredith have the most beautiful smile!?! Swooning over those dimples.

Best of 2011

2011-12-30T12:56:00.000-05:00

2011 has been a whirlwind. I can't believe I get to do this as a career. How lucky am I? I've met some pretty fabulous people, and had the best times on these shoots & weddings. I was both excited and dreading going through all of my 2011 pictures to pick out my favorites. Excited, well because I love these pictures & I'm so excited to reminisce. I was dreading because.. THERE'S TOO MANY!!! It was so hard to pick!!

Jeff & Krystal- Proposal

Donea & Josh- Engagement

Helena & Chris- Engagement

Stephanie & Eddie- Wedding

Tiffany & Michael- Wedding

Ginger & PJ- Engagement

Donna & Carlos- Wedding

April & Geoff- Wedding

Laura& Kevin- Wedding

Leia & Ryan- Trash the Dress

Kristy & Brian- Wedding

Miss A- Boudoir

Jenn & Eric- Engagement

Kelly & Jordan- Engagement

Abier & Bryan- Engagement

Poblick sisters

Ana & Paulo- Engagement

Erica & Dave- Wedding

Raquel & Daniel- Just because

Caitlyn & Jesse- Engagement

Jessica & Eric- Wedding

Rachel & Geoff- Engagement

Erika & Win- Wedding

Kayla & Calvin- Wedding

Nicole & Chris- Wedding

Meredith & John- Engagement

Thanks to everyone who has helped 2011 be a major success!! I have the best friends, family & clients!! Here's to 2012 being even bigger & better!!!

Dave & Erica are MARRIED!!!

2011-12-29T11:54:00.000-05:00

I met Dave through my husband, Bryan. Dave & Bryan met through work, and they became good friends and Dave ended up being in our bridal party! He was the guy who lit up the dance floor with his fancy feet work. Watching him was the highlight of the reception. I knew he had a long-time girlfriend, and she was supposed to be there, but her car died on her that day. I was super excited when I finally got to meet her! She was even cuter and sweeter than I imagined! And we became instant friends. She has the most infectious smile and laugh.
They are a no fuss kind of couple, so once they (finally) got engaged, a cruise ship wedding seemed to fit them perfectly. The wedding came with the ship's own photographer for the ceremony, but I wanted to be there when they got ready, and make sure they have those moments captured. It's my favorite part of the day, afterall!

Yes, I fell in love with her shoes. Madly in love. Studded Gianni Bini. Yes. Please & thank you.

On the cruise, after the wedding, Erica's sister got engaged! This is the future groom.

From the hotel where they got ready, we then moved to the cruise ship to do the last minute details. Her dress... I'm speechless. It was amazing!

Dave & Erica, I couldn't be happier for the two of you. Bryan & I are so blessed to have the both of you in our lives. You are two of the sweetest people we know! And we are so glad that you two can finally call each other husband & wife! Congratulations!! Love yall!!

Poblick Family

2011-12-22T11:49:00.001-05:00

You may remember this family. I shot them last year sometime. Kim, the mother of these precious twins, we go way back.. I wanna say 9 years? I used to work at Jenny Craig, and she was my boss in Metairie, LA. I looooved working with Kim. I can honestly say she is one of my favorite people to work for.. ever. After Katrina came, I moved here to the Tampa area and I remembered this is where Kim was from. So I called her & she said she's living here again! Soon afterwards, she's pregnant with TWINS! I couldn't tell you how excited I was for her & Joe. I know they've been trying for a long time, and what a blessing to have two amazing babies! And yes, they are quite amazing. These girls are full of personality & love. Totally makes me want to have twin girls.. just like them.
Kim called me, saying the girls want to be models and actresses. I can SO see it. These girls have it. So they wanted pictures to get started. I loved working with these sweeties. They will be famous, just watch.

My sister has a great dane, a husky and a boston terrier. I thought their house was a madhouse. That's nothing compared to when this family gets together. Everyone has at least one great dane. And there's also a bull mastiff, and of course you have to have a little yorkie in the mix. Everyone kept asking me if I was afraid of great danes. I LOVE great danes!! And watching.. let's count.. 5 great danes & a bull mastiff play together.. well, that's just entertaining!!

I love this picture. Makes me so glad I grew up with sisters. Sisters are the best.

Kelly & Jordan are ENGAGED!!

2011-12-20T15:34:00.000-05:00

I took one look at Kelly & Jordan and I immediately got the biggest smile on my face. I struck gold. They are just GORGEOUS!! I couldn't wait to do a shoot with them. They are a dream.

They met while getting their bachelor degrees in Anthropology. And my favorite part, they got engaged while they were at Jazz Fest in New Orleans!! I knew I loved them!!!

Jenn & Eric are ENGAGED!!

2011-12-15T16:15:00.000-05:00

I love a fun engagement session. Don't you? Jenn & Eric were full of laughs, smiles and fun ideas. I want to hang out with them all day.
Here is their love story, told by Jen!
So after a couple of failed attempts at the whole Happily Ever After scene I was introduced to Plenty Of Fish by a friend of mine she helped me set up an account now I was very skeptical because I tried Match.com & that was a huge bust. So I went in w/ caution anyways I said to myself what do I got to loose right if anything I just meet new people & get free dinners out of it lol... So after a few dates nothing too exciting happen I was close to giving up until one lonely and bored night I went on I said to myself this is the last time & I am deleting you lol.. I was searching then I came across a Hot Fishy named Eric his profile pic's had me go WOW he's HOT so I read his profile & liked what I read so what the heck I threw in my bait to see if he would catch it lol... After that night I checked my email like every day off & on I was hooked on this guy for some reason as the days passed I was getting sad bc I didn't hear back from him, but bc i am relentless I sent him one more bait and sure enough after a couple of days he replied back (big sigh) I was doing the happy dance!!! He apologized for taking long to respond back he is on the road a lot for his job so after a couple of emails back and forth we exchanged numbers and we started talking on the phone for hours until our phones went dead we started talking in the middle of the week by the end of that week we had our first date let me tell you those few days seemed like the longest days of my entire life I was so excited to meet my Fishy everything we talked about seemed to perfect to good to be true was he my prince charming finally did I find the one??? I told my friends all about this Eric & showed them his pic's they were all so jealous and so happy for me I was like a kid in a candy store I couldn't wait to meet him! So the BIG DAY came 11/20/2009 we met at his friends house whom happen to live right around the corner from me how ironic when I got out of my car he was there waiting for me I had butterflies in my stomach I thought I was going to die I was so nervous, but when our eyes met my whole body just went numb I was smiling ear to ear as he was too he gave me a kiss on my lips & a big hug it was magical lol!! We went out for dinner & for walk on the beach it was a perfect 1st date & it wouldn't be the last!! We have been together ever since he was away for the 1st yr we were together he was only able to come home on the weekends so every weekend it was like meeting again for the 1st time!! On July 5, 2011 I came home from work to find a bouquet of my favorite flowers & a card on the table a beautiful card w/ instructions at the very end to meet me him in the bedroom so I went of course there he was smiling ear to ear like the day we met I looked on the dresser on my mirror he wrote I love you Jenn!!! Just to say I Love you on a piece of paper w/a little square box sitting on top I open it to find the most precious,perfect, beautiful engagement ring inside I was shaking yet once again he then asked me to marry me him & the rest is history I finally found my dream come true so you see boys & girls there are plenty of fish in the sea you just got to catch the right one I know I did.

Nicole & Chris are MARRIED!!!

2011-12-14T22:14:00.001-05:00

Now, who wouldn't love to get married at the aquarium??? Beautiful floor to ceiling tanks with AMAZING fish swimming by while you say your vows.. I mean, come on!!
And I just fell in love with Nicole & Chris. Super sweet, and I'm so excited they wanted me as their photographer. Chris is even from the New Orleans area, and is a major Saints fan!! We bonded right away. (WHO DAT!)

So glad Bryan was there to get these amazing 1st look shots.

And this was my view.

Get ready to die of cuteness! They had PENGUINS walk down the aisle. PENGUINS!!!! One of them was a rebel and decided he didn't want to go back to the trainer, so he took a detour in one of the rows, hid under the MOB's dress, and eventually made it back out to everyone laughing. Too, too cute. Loved it. A penguin is now on my christmas list.

This shark was totally cool too. I think he loved seeing what was going on. He basically stayed in front of the glass, passing back and forth. Made for some really awesome pictures.

Congratulations Nicole & Chris!!! So happy I was your photographer!! This wedding rocked!

Laura & Kevin are MARRIED!!! Part Two!

2011-12-07T15:24:00.001-05:00

Part two of Laura & Kevin's wedding. There were so many pictures, I couldn't fit them in one blog. I can't express how much I enjoyed every moment and every detail of this wedding. My DREAM WEDDING.

The sweetest moment ever between the two moms.

Something about this... a lil sweet, a lil sexy.. I love it.

The dessert buffet. There are no words.

Well, I'll try. Every pie, cookie, cake, cupcake... everything homemade by Laura, her mom & her sister. Best desserts I've ever had. No lie. It's now my goal in life to convince them to open up a bakery in St. Petersburg. I'll be their biggest fan. I'll be there so much, they would need to give me my own room. Just look at all the desserts they made.

Cutest vintage cake toppers I've ever seen!!

I fell in love with all of the mixed & matched china plates. I want to start collecting them so I can have a fancy plate stash for parties... because I'm fancy.

Mouth.Watering.Now

Was this not the most precious wedding ever?? Are you blown away with their details?? I'm telling you.. Bakery/Wedding Planning... AND her sister is a videographer!! They could have a wedding monopoly!!

Congratulations to Laura & Kevin! Couldn't be happier for yall!!

Laura & Kevin are MARRIED!! Part One

2011-12-06T12:44:00.001-05:00

I love detailed weddings. And even more than that, I love DIY & vintage weddings. And that's exactly what Laura & Kevin had in store for their guests. I knew this was going to be an amazing wedding, but I had no idea it was going to be so intricate. I mean, THE DETAILS!! You can see the hours of work, and the amount of heart that went in to every little thing. I was amazed.

I had the pleasure of taking with me TWO fellow photographers. Bara Miller (whom I've worked with before) from Bara Miller Photography. http://baramillerphotography.com/. And a new friend, Brittany Long from Brittany Long Photography. http://www.brittanylongphotography.com/index2.php#/home/ Two fabulous photographers.. I was so lucky to have them come along!!

Bara & I went to the Omni Champions Gate in Kissimmee to photograph Laura getting ready with her sister/MOH. Fabulous hotel.. so stunning, as well as the bride! And it was a beautiful day. Seriously, how could it get any better??

My heart skipped a beat when I saw the wedding dress. Tea length. Perfection. And the shoes, yes.. of course, I also fell in love with the shoes.

The brooch that Laura used as hair piece... $4 at a thrift store. REALLY! Who has that kind of luck???

While we were at the Omni, Brittany was getting fun shots of the groom getting ready at his dad's house, which was also the setting for the wedding! Wait till you see this place.

You know first looks are my favorite. Look at this special moment when Laura & Kevin see each other for the first time on their wedding day.

The rest of this blog, part 1, is dedicated to SOME of their never ending list of details. I'm still amazed what they were able to pull off. While I was there, taking pictures, I kept coming back and realizing there were details that I missed! There were so many, my brain couldn't process everything. And thank goodness I had 2 other shooters to back me up. Looking through their pictures, I realize that I STILL missed some of these details!!

There was so many things to do, so many places to go.. you had to have a map to help you. YES! What a fantastic place to have a wedding, let me tell you. It was quite unbelivable.

Stay tuned for more pictures of this spectacular wedding!! I haven't even gotten to the ceremony & reception!!

Sneak Peek- Nicole and Chris are MARRIED!

2011-12-01T13:41:00.001-05:00

I wanted to share a special sneak peek of a wedding I did at the aquarium. Nicole & Chris are this super awesome couple with such a cool wedding, I couldn't wait to share this with you & with them.

More pictures to come, so check back!

Impromptu session with Tiffany

2011-11-15T11:16:00.001-05:00

I was super nervous. I just bought basically all new equipment. For you photographers out there, I got a D700, (my first full frame camera), 50mm 1.4, and 28-70mm 2.8. I was nervous because I had a two wedding weekend coming up, and I've yet to really play with my new gear. I took some pictures of Jazz, but she doesn't like to cooperate, and I basically needed a human model. So my friend Tiffany and I did an impromptu maternity session. I looooved how the 1.4 worked. Everything looked like butter. A little soft and hard to focus though. But when she works right, she does some amazing things.

It was a short session.. I had a nail appointment to get to, so there aren't a lot of pictures to show. These were my favorites.

This is what I'm gaga over. Look at her eyes. Love.

Donna and Carlos are MARRIED!!!

2011-11-14T13:03:00.001-05:00

So happy for Donna & Carlos! What a fabulous & fun couple!! I met them at another wedding I was shooting, for Edith & Dawson. Edith is Carlos' sister, and turns out that Carlos and I have a mutual friend, and Bryan has even hung out with him before! Small world, right?
I met up with Donna and immediately fell in love with her sweet personality. We had a lot of fun giggles over coffee. Loved her! I couldn't wait for her wedding. I knew it was going to be a blast.
Here is their love story, told by Donna.
"Carlos is the sweetest guy I've ever met. When we met each other we instantly felt a connection and felt like so comfortable talking and getting to know each other. We had alot in common like going to the gym, watching movies and eating chicken wings! We started hanging out and within a week that we met we became "boyfriend and girlfriend." It was the cutest thing.
I think we make a strong couple because we trust each other with our life, respect each others ideas and both love to have a good time!"

Flowers from Apple Blossoms in Tampa. They are the best!!

One of my favorite couples of all time.. Edith & Dawson!!

This was such a pretty venue. I loved this long room with windows all around & industrialized looking top. Pretty cool. Westin Harbour Island, all the way.

Ok, get ready for cuteness.. This kid was all about dancing his heart out & seeing his reflection in the window. And he didn't care who was watching. I want to live like him.

I love both of these so much. Kissing and dancing. Life is complete.

Best friends! I love this picture!!

Jazz is my personal model

2011-11-06T11:15:00.001-05:00

I recently got my new equipment in!! I'm falling hard and fast for my new D700, 50mm 1.4 & 28-70mm. Jazz didn't know what was in store for her.. she did NOT like modeling for me. She said I was too demanding.

I admit, she looks vicious in this picture, but she's just readjusting the stick.. her first love.

And my favorite. I love my babe.

Karen & Matt are MARRIED!! Part 2

2011-11-04T17:38:00.001-04:00

Congratulations Karen & Matt!!!

Karen & Matt are MARRIED!! Part 1

2011-11-02T19:25:00.001-04:00

3 photographers = tons of awesome pictures. So much so, this wedding is being split up into 2 blogs.

Karen & Matt's wedding was our first cool wedding of the season. Thank goodness that heat is over. And even though the sun was hidden behind the clouds, it was a beautiful day. And if you're a photographer it was PERFECT shooting weather. We love clouds.

I was so honored to have the fabulous Bara Miller from Bara Miller Photography come with us. I am floored everytime I look at her work. And not only is she mega talented, she is so beyond sweet, too. I LOVED having her with us to help shoot this wedding.

First Look

Come back soon for more pictures of Karen & Matt's wedding!

New Orleans Family & Friends

2011-10-14T20:02:00.002-04:00

I miss everything about New Orleans. I really do. The food, music.. even the muddy rivers & swamps. Most importantly I miss my family. And of course a trip to Louisiana wouldn't be the same without a trip to NOLA.

I debated posting this sequence of pictures. Ignore the broken blinds, and focus on my mom. Ah, I love my mom. She is truly unique. There is no one on this earth that's like her. But when it comes to taking pictures, she is exactly like someone. Earl. From 'My Name Is Earl". If you watched that show, you know every picture he takes, he has his eyes closed. That is my mom. So my (newly engaged) sister, Katie, says "Take a picture of me and mom!" And here's the picture.

"Hey Mom.. your eyes are closed. Try again."

"Again.. keep your eyes OPEN."

BAHAHAHA

My other sister, Angelle rocking out to Glee karaoke.

Save Bean!!

My sisters both win the most beautiful sisters in the world award. 100%

I was SO excited that I got to hang out with Lauren & Tony again.. This time, IN THE FRENCH QTR! We had such a perfect time. Of course, we had to get our Cafe Du'Monde in. New Orleans wouldn't be the same without it. Tony has never had a beignet, so we made sure to give him the 'how to' on beignet eating. Don't breathe in & don't breathe out while biting into it. That is a sure way to either inhale the powdered sugar or send it flying onto your friends... which, actually, is a lot of fun.

I never realized how much stuff I have in common with Lauren. It's borderline scary, like.. everything. Even down to her relationship with Tony & mine with Bryan. And our guys are SO much alike too! I'm so sad that they live in TX and we're in FL. But I can't wait for them to come to Disneyworld.

I was shopping at one of the stores, and when I came out, I saw them standing together with his arm around her, watching some street performers. Perfectly perfect.

I don't know whose kid this was. He may have been a part of the group. Maybe a tourist. But they gave him a tiny horn and he was playing like he's been doing this for 40 years. Granted, he wasn't any good, but he sure was blowing. And BOY was he the cutest!!

So happy for new found friendships.

Reunion Weekend aka "She called me M'AM"

2011-10-13T11:24:00.000-04:00

It seems like all I've been able to think about or talk about lately was my 10 year high school reunion. I was really excited, but also extremely nervous. I loved my school, Bolton in Alexandria, LA, and I loved the time I spent there. Some of the best years of my life. As much as I loved it, I have many, many regrets. So, time to get honest. I was the kinda shy, quiet girl who was nervous about joining any groups or making friends. I guess it was the fear of rejection and the fear of failing at something. Bolton was funny though. While there were cliques, everyone was still friends with everyone. So I had many really great acquaintences.. not a lot of friends. Don't get me wrong, the friends I did have were fabulous. None of which were going to the reunion. Insert fear here. How was it going to be when I see everyone? Would it be awkward? Will there be cliques? I've become friends through facebook with people who I considered my high school acquaintences. Somehow, we've become closer now than in high school. But that's through facebook. How would it be in person?

And I knew I had to face my senior yearbook picture. I avoided it for 10 years. (You can read why I was terrified of it at this link. http://jessicacharlesphotography.blogspot.com/2011/08/ten-years-in-making.html) I was all-around a nervous mess.
I was a nervous mess for no reason!! It was so much better than I could have imagined. Everybody was friends with everybody. And it was fun!! I genuinely enjoyed the entire weekend, and so glad I got to see everyone that went. After the weekend was over, I began to reflect on my regrets, wishing I was more assertive and outgoing in school, as I am now. Maybe it's just one of those lessons that we learn as we grow. And now I have new friendships that I am so thankful for.
Our class president, Molly is also one of my former brides. http://jessicacharlesphotography.blogspot.com/2010/12/molly-and-jebs-wedding-day-part-1.html And our class couldn't have wished for a better president. She, along with the rest of the planning commitee, went so above and beyond to make this weekend out of this world.

First on the agenda, game night.

Then some of our former cheerleaders decided to do a cheer 'back from our day'. HEY BEAR FANS!

JUMP shake your booty.. JUMP JUMP!!

Cute as a button. Molly, you haven't changed!!

Cheesin' it up for the camera.

At some point during the game, some students were going up to people asking if they wanted to buy T-shirts. I asked if I could look at them & the inevitable happened. They called me "m'am". They said it, and I swear the world went silent. Sure, I've been called mam before, and I've hated it then too, but this was different. I was at my reunion, already feeling old, and these KIDS call me that word. Sitting there in shock, I felt my eyes get a little wet.. Are these tears?? Hold it back, hold it back... Why the heck am I tearing up?? I think it was a mixture of emotions. I was emotional to be back at this school, having fun with people I haven't seen in a decade. And there was also the sad emotional part of it.. Where has the time gone? Has it really been 10 years? But God, I wish I could have not teared up. Really. I was mortified. One of the girls looked at me and even pointed it out.. "Oh no, are you crying???" Ugh, if you don't know, that just makes it worse. Don't ever point out to someone that they're crying. I'm laughing at the same time, well, because it is funny. So I just play it off, I'm sure not nearly as cool as I wanted it to be. Along with "move the chain", the anthem of the night was "She called me 'M'AM'."

I adore this picture for so many reasons.

SENIOR SENIOR SENIOR SHOUT... it's been 10 years since we've been out. (haha, thanks Molly!)

It's senior yearbook picture time. Granted, it's not nearly as bad as I remember BUT it's still embarrassing. I'm channeling Diana Ross and Bozo the clown.

This is the front of Bolton. So many memories.

Yup, 1926. It's part of what makes Bolton so special.

Also, so many memories of this auditorium, singing. Man, I miss those concerts with all of my heart.

Some members of the danceline performed for us. It was nice.. and a little creepy. Bryan and I were sitting in the front row. I felt like some kind of teenage dancer groupie.

The students now have a lounge. Why didn't we have a lounge?

The bear in the lobby.

I loved the archways in the entry way. I have this same picture from 10 years ago.

I can't imagine having a cell phone as a student. Texting and facebook would be waaay too tempting!

I don't know why, but the letters are exactly the same. Wonky.

I thought this was very sad & sweet.

Party time, aka Bear Bash Part Deux.

The details that have been saved are incredible. I'm telling you, Molly is the best class president. EVER.

Till this day, my favorite book. A Prayer For Owen Meany. I cry and laugh hysterically each time I read it. Crucial part of my senior year in high school.

Jeb, the Spirit Boa King

I still get the phrase "Hellooooooo Dolly, well, helloooo Dolly" stuck in my head.. quite often.

The photobooth was SUCH a hit. So perfect.

Here is our photobooth picture of the night. I heart.

I have to quote what my friend, Emily, said about this picture.

"You see, the old school trays used to have a circle here for the corn and a rectangle over here for the square pizza...." (Poor Molly shaking her head, feigning fascination. Lol.)"

The calender of a class president. Busy girl! Note.. BRACES OFF!!!

We were all so excited that Billy (on the left) was able to make it all the way from Germany, where he is currently serving our country. You, Billy, are amazing.

My new/old friends. Lauren and her new awesome fiancee, Tony! I love this couple!! We got to hang out in New Orleans after this and had a blast. A few pictures to come.

I know this was an extreeeemely long blog, and thank you for sticking around till the end.

I just want to say thank you again to Molly, Lauren & the rest of the reunion team that made everything so special. It was a weekend I'll never forget. I can't wait till the next time I get to see everyone again. Hopefully it won't be another 10 years!!

Abier & Bryan are ENGAGED!

2011-10-12T11:47:00.002-04:00

Abier contacted me on facebook to do an engagement shoot. As soon as I looked at her picture, I couldn't wait. Little miss gorgeous over here reminds me of my sister. Cute as a button.

We had a blast in Downtown Sarasota. Abier and Bryan are the exact kind of couple that makes me love what I do. Fun, cute.. not afraid to laugh & act up. And they were up for anything, as you will see in the last picture. I feel in love with photographing them, and I didn't want the session to end. We squeezed every last bit of sunlight out of that day.

I hope you like looking at their pictures as much as I loved taking them.

So freaking adorable.

L.O.V.E.

Smile of the year award? What do you think?

Has to be one of my favorite pictures ever.

Such a cute idea. Loved it!

At the end of the day, Abier jumped into a fountain and had a little splashing fight. It was a little perfect. :)

Vasquez Family Shoot

2011-10-01T22:21:00.000-04:00

I fully admit, family sessions intimidate me. My comfort zone is completely with couples. When my friend Cindy said she wanted to do a family session with her kids & grand kids... I kinda froze. Not that I didn't want to do it. I've worked with Cindy before & I knew how much fun she was. But this was a lot of people & a lot of kids! I should have known better to worry. The whole family was just as perfect & fun as Cindy is. My nerves calmed immediately.

This was about the highest the kite got off the ground. Not a real windy day, but we'll pretend for the sake of the picture.

The grand kids!

I honestly think the two youngest were terrified. You see the terror in their cute little faces? I promise I'm nice!

Little Olivia decided this was the perfect time to take her first steps. I couldn't be more thrilled that I was there to capture it.

Wild child threw off her clothes and started sprinting for the water.

Perfect family. Perfect day. Perfect shoot.

Miss. N's Boudoir Session

2011-09-12T17:22:00.001-04:00

Hottie alert. Get ready.
I'm so loving this boudoir thing. We have so much fun goofing off and taking fabulous, sexy pictures! And Miss N's fiancee loooooves them! Of course he would. He's marrying a hottie!

Her fiancee is a Saints fan!!! My kind of guy!!

I love these zebra heels. LOVE

Va-va-voom.

Etsy & Pinterest.. OBSESSED

2011-09-08T14:37:00.000-04:00

If you can't tell by now, I'm obsessed with weddings... but what kind of wedding photographer would I be if I weren't, right?? I'm quite in love with DIY/Vintage chic. If I was married longer than 3.5 years, I would sooo want a vow renewal. I'm craving another wedding. Seriously, I would do one every year if I could. I should probably clarify that I want another wedding because I love it AND because I love my husband more than life. :)

So I'm in wedding planner mode and I have two links for you. I started an etsy favorites page dedicated to my favorite wedding items. And I also started a pinterest page with a wedding inspiration board. I hope you love it as much as I do, and I can help you get inspired.

http://www.etsy.com/people/jessicacharlesphotog/favorites?ref=si_fav -- My Etsy page. Make sure you check out both my favorite items AND shops! You're going to want to order EVERYTHING!

http://pinterest.com/jessicacharles/ -- My Pinterest page. Follow my wedding board for wedding inspiration, and follow my style page if you want inspiration on what to wear for your engagement shoot... or any day that ends in Y!

Welcome to my obsessions.

My "kids"

2011-09-02T16:25:00.001-04:00

For those who don't know, I have a dog that's about 1 1/2 years old. Her name is Jazz. She's a Shar-pei mix. We're thinking she may be mixed with some Ridgeback.

For the past month or so, she has had an infected paw. She couldn't stop licking, so we got her a cone. But don't feel bad for her! SHE LOVES THE CONE!!! No lie. We'll take it off, thinking she deserves a break from it. But when it's time to put it back on, she runs up to it, BEGGING for it. I almost feel bad when it's time for us to get rid of it. Maybe I'll put it back on her for special occasions. I think she thinks it's a crown. Maybe I should decorate it with pretty jewels and ribbons.

And here's Doo. She's the older sister. She's fat. She doesn't do much but sleep in one spot, get up and sleep in another spot.

She wants you to believe she's prim and proper.

Thanks for indulging me, haha. I'll tell them you said hello. :)

New Packaging!

2011-08-29T17:38:00.000-04:00

What do you think of our new packaging for the discs??

Ginger & PJ are ENGAGED!!!

2011-08-26T19:01:00.004-04:00

Immediately, I fell in love with Ginger & PJ. So unique, and fun.. Ginger is a FIRE HOOP DANCER!! And PJ loves to surf and dress up in funny costumes and outfits! Ok, be honest.. Didn't you just fall in love with them too? During our consultation, we were brainstorming on some eshoot ideas. Being the fabulous and unique couple that they are, a plain jane shoot wouldn't do. No, no no. I think it was PJ who brought up the surfboard idea. As soon as he mentioned the word "surfboard", I was all about it. GENIUS!!!!

The day of the shoot rolled around. I was so excited, I couldn't contain my excitement.. until I looked outside. It was dark, and it was hours before sunset. We decided to give it a shot anyway & we'll make it work. I was so bummed because I had this beautiful SoCal image in my head. Yes, I realize I'm in FL, but I had a image in my head. So let me be. But you know FL weather, one spot will be rainy and a 1/2 a mile down the road, it's completely sunny. I was still worried, because I know how fast things can change. Luckily, not only did it stay rain-free but it was completley cool. It hasn't been that nice since early March. And just wait till you see the sunset!

I don't normally have my clients pick me up and drive to our location, but I'm so glad we did this time, because I got this picture.

Hehe, don't try this yourselves! I was scared out of my mind, between PJ's driving and this gigantic surfboard, which literally touched the back window and the front windshield.

Bryan laughed at this picture. He said, "Where are they going to surf? There's not one wave!" Party pooper, I like this picture very much, thank you.

GINGER!!!! You are STUNNING! Ugh, I both love and hate you.

SO glad we didn't reschedule the shoot. I want to keep this sunset in my pocket.

We were wrapping up, when PJ spotted some dolphins in the water. So into the water they went. LOVE THEM!

My favorite. Two dolphins playing together. <3 <3 <3

So the park is closing. We need to leave. But this sunset is so beyond perfect, I'm still snapping away. I couldn't resist. Besides a slight vignette, this photo is untouched. Gorgeous, right?

So, we're walking to the car and Ginger looks at me. She takes a deep breath, and says, "Jessica. Don't. Move." Those are dangerous words. I know what those words mean. There is a bug on me. I looked down, and on my shootsac, there is the world's largest grasshopper/locust monster, literally staring at me, so ready to pounce. I go into panic mode. I try throwing the bag on the ground, but I know any slight movement, it's going to jump on my face and eat my brains. I try to shrink, duck my head, shut my eyes as tight as they can go & flat out panic without moving. Ginger, my hero, with one swift movement swipes it away. I don't know how she did it, mentally. I wouldn't have been able to do it. Hero. There are no words.. Ginger, I owe you.

And no, I did not get a picture of the monster.

But I did get one more shot...

This shoot is defintely one of my all time favorites. A gorgeous couple, surfboard, amazing sunset and wild dolphins... How in the world does it get better?

Can't wait for the wedding!!!!!!!!

Hope

2011-08-25T11:36:00.000-04:00

When I knew photography was what I wanted to do, I couldn't sleep. Literally, I would stay awake all night brainstorming on shoots.. who, where, poses, etc. I couldn't turn my brain off. And I would often be thinking of photographing my good friend Hope & her boyfriend Jason. (Did that sound creepy?) Gorgeous redhead & total rocker guy. What photographer wouldn't be obsessed with them?

Hope & Jason are such dear friends. Bryan and I always have the best time when they're around. Jason plays the drums for Soul Circus Cowboys, a country band about to make it big. They just came back from Nashville, where they made their first video. I can't wait to see how it comes out.

Hope came to me, wanting to do something for Jason. So we combined a Trash the Dress session with a Boudoir session, and we came up with this. Hellooooooo gorgeous!

Working with one of my best friends was so much fun. I can't wait to do it again, and next time it will be with Jason!!! Ohh, that will be awesome. Just wait.

Kenisha and Marcus are MARRIED!!

2011-08-24T17:53:00.005-04:00

Kenisha was one of the first people who started following my blog, when I started my business. She wrote me, saying that she's getting married but she had no idea when, and she wanted me to do her wedding. I remember thinking, "OMG! SOMEONE LIKES MY WORK!!" It was an amazing feeling, and she was so super sweet. Fast forward a year later, and I get an email from her, saying that they set a date! I was so excited, and thrilled that she remembered me! It was such an honor to meet the two of them and their little girl, Victoria. So, so cute, let me tell you.

My awesome friend and former bride, Jeanine, was my second shooter for the day. She's an amazing upcoming photographer in the area. I LOVED having her assisting me. She is a dream! Thanks again, Jeanine, for everything. I can't wait to work with you again!

Jeanine and I were getting ready for Kenisha to put on her dress, when someone turned on some music and they all started dancing!!! I LOVED IT!!! I can honestly say, that's never happened to me before, and what a perfect way to shake off some nerves.

Probably my favorite picture. Jeanine, you rock. And Kenisha, your legs are KILLER!

I took Kenisha down to the lobby and took some pictures before we left for the church. This lobby is gorgeous! I love this fabulous wall!

Victoria sees her mommy for the first time. She said, "Mommy, you look beauuutiful!"

I'm in love with the movement in these pictures.

I love this idea that Kenisha & Marcus had. Since their last name is Madison, they wanted to take pictures by the street sign in Downtown Tampa. Love this!

Also, let me say that this is the bridal party of the year. So much fun, and so incredibly helpful. It was SO HOT, but they were amazing and chose to have fun instead of being miserable. Seriously, best bridal party ever. Thanks guys for rockin' it!!!

The reception was at the Tampa Club. This was an experience in itself. You shot up 41 flights within SECONDS. I had no idea we were going up so high, and all of a sudden, my ears started popping!! I'm thinking to myself.. well, that's weird.

In this picture, you can see we are higher than the Sykes building, aka The Beer Can, and you can see the University of Tampa in the background!

My favorite part of the night. Marcus belongs to Omega Psi Phi. At one point in the night, the brothers gathered around Kenisha and serenaded her with the sweetest song, while Marcus was at her feet, singing too.

And there was some stomping.......

It was something I've never experienced before. It was quite amazing. I loved every moment of it.

Marcus got some air!!!

Night time view of the city, with the reflection of the dance floor. I love this picture, Jeanine!!

Jeanine, you rock. I'm in love with your talent and so blessed to have you come with me!

Kenisha & Marcus, you finally did it!! I was so honored to be there, and I had so so so much fun. The whole day really flew by. I can't wait to do your Rock the Dress session. It will be AMAZING!!! Yall are the best!

Ten years in the making

2011-08-19T14:42:00.003-04:00

It's that time. Breathe in... Breathe out... It's time to go back.
Bolton High School, Class of 2001.. It's reunion time.

I started going to Bolton my sophomore year. I transferred from the rival school, Alexandria Senior High aka ASH is Trash. :) I walked onto Bolton's campus for the first time, completely overwhelmed and scared out of my mind. Here's this GORGEOUS, historic school.. 3 gigantic floors of old hard wood floors and tall ceilings. A student showed me around the campus and showed me where all my classes were. We started on the 3rd floor. My first class was on the first floor in another building. FOR TWO WEEKS, I didn't know how to get to my first class from the first floor. So I would hike up three flights of stairs where I first started my tour, and go back downstairs to my first class. Haha, I can laugh about it now, but it was exhausting! It didn't take long to feel right at home at my new school. I immediately was swollen with school pride, something I couldn't feel for ASH.

It's safe to say that one of the main reasons why I fear my reunion is having to face my senior yearbook picture. It's so bad, I've refused to look at it since I graduated. For all of my life, my hair has never been my friend. It's a mixture of wave, frizz and curl. I straighten it now, I should have straightened it for picture day. Oh, how I should have. Instead, I decide to go the curly route, but when the curls didn't work, I did the thing that has haunted me until this day. I brushed. Yes, I brushed the curls, which then turned into a mountain of frizz. But it doesn't end there, unfortunately. In the picture, the legacy I left behind, my eyes are the size of golf balls. It's oh so horrifically awful. All I can do is pray that no one remembers me as this frizzy haired deer in headlights girl.

A few months after I graduated, my mom, sisters & I moved down to New Orleans. And I haven't seen most of my old classmates since then. Last November, I had the honor of photographing our Class President and another classmate's wedding. (Molly Cook & Jeb Britt) I'm crazy happy that they are married, and I had such a great time at their wedding. I got to see a bunch of old classmates... it was kind of a mini-reunion. It was awesome!

What have I accomplished in the past 10 years? Would my 18 year old self be happy with who I am today? Has facebook helped maintained friendships and help me become friends with people who I never really talked to back then, or has facebook already reunited us, and add to the awkwardness of seeing everybody in person.

What should I wear?

I wish I had pictures to show from back then. Unfortunatley, I lost all of my old pictures and projects in Katrina... not so unfortunate about the yearbook.

But here are two pictures I got from google & facebook.

The front of my beloved school

That's me with my dear, old friend J.R. just after one of our choir performances. Yes, that is a choir dress, not a dress from my personal wardrobe.

I'll end this with a little Bolton tradition, the Alma Mater, sung at the end of all the school functions, including all football games.

"We stand and pledge our loyalty to you.

All of our best, we gladly give to you.

Fair will we keep thy fine umblemished name.

Bolton go forth.

Win honor and win fame!"

Class of '01, I'll be seeing you soon!!