Lathon Photography :: Blog

Kaitlynn | Little One

2010-12-07T16:23:00.007-06:00

Just a few images of the first-born of my good friends Scott and Charnell.

2009-12-03T17:06:00.004-06:00

The Blogger/Reader Covenant

2009-09-11T16:18:00.002-05:00

Let's just pretend that I've been actively blogging for the past 4 months.

Great! Glad we see eye to eye on this!

Amanda & Louis | Wedding

2009-05-26T19:58:00.013-05:00

It's settled. I have the coolest clients on the face of this little planet! Louis and Amanda have been a dream to work with and I'm so grateful that they've trusted me to document their wedding. There are dozens and dozens more that I'd like to throw up on the blog but I'll stick to these:

Louis' Thumbs-Up™

I wish I could shoot at the Joule Hotel every weekend:

Congrats, guys!

Beware - a blog post!

2009-05-03T13:17:00.006-05:00

Wow...neglect is the only word I can use to describe the way I've been treating my poor, poor, barren weblog. Forgive me!

I've got much to catch up on. Lots of wedding and portrait posts coming in the following days and weeks; some plans for the future; rants, raves, and everything in between.

For now:

My brother has recently gained enough strength to leave the hospital! Things still aren't the best but Rome wasn't built in a day. He's a strong dude!
Correspondingly, I'm thinking of training for a cycling century or two with this as the goal.
Filming for The Perfect Picture Show, a reality show for which I'll be a judge, begins in just a few weeks! Check it out
Swine Flu Circus = A fear monger's knowledge that people aren't truly happy unless they are absolutely hysterical! Ironically, I'd been reading bits and pieces of The Culture of Fear shortly before this craziness began. Where is this hysteria every year when seasonal influenza outbreaks kill 40,000? Sure, I'm not immune...but I'm really just not that worried.
I love Pictage!!!
My brides are still cooler than your brides!

Israel & Annamarie | Wedding

2009-03-07T20:13:00.009-06:00

I can't say enough about the tremendous time I had with these guys while shooting their Hawaiian wedding. What a beautiful place for a ceremony! Anna and Israel are the best!

I've had hell trying to pare down to just a few favorites, so I just kept adding images to this post until the little voice of impending excess said 'okie doke'.

Needless to say, I was excited to shoot come wedding day...and knowing that we had a day-after shoot planned made me salivate all the more. This was also reassuring, as things backed up a bit during the wedding day and with the time constraints we were only given 20 minutes (!!!) to do the formals and other portraits after the ceremony. That has to be a record for me. Cool...we'd have plenty of time the day-after to get creatively crazy...

Unless Israel slips and seriously fractures his leg! Poor guy...ended up with plates, screws, the works.

bouquet, bouquet, and bouquet:

Coolest kid I've ever met. He had me in stitches all week :

A hug from her father as he gives her away:

Words cannot express such beauty:

I can't thank you enough, guys!

Natalie & Keith | Wedding

2009-02-11T07:27:00.002-06:00

Just a few of my favorites!

St. Andrew's beautiful sanctuary:

the exit:

three generations:

Amanda & Louis | Engagement

2009-01-27T13:33:00.007-06:00

I promised Amanda I'd blog her e-session before I take off to shoot Israel and Anna's Hawaiian wedding this week. So, here's a sneak peek!

They decided to do the session at Hickory Street Annex, the site of their wedding reception. I loved shooting there!

I'm looking forward to working more with these two! They're a breeze to photograph!

Jonny & Sarah | Engagement

2009-01-25T13:11:00.009-06:00

Jonny Carroll is a successful wedding/portrait/fashion/aerial/you-name-it photographer that I've blog-stalked for a while now. So when he contacted me about doing an engagement session with him and his lovely fiance, Sarah, I was a bit nerve-wracked! The pressure was on!

Fortunately we lucked out with a beautiful day and had a lot of fun! Having a good time seemed to be at the top of their agenda. And that was just up my alley:

this spot on the campus of UNT is very special to Sarah and Jonny:

playing in traffic isn't always a bad thing:

great laughs:

I had a blast spending time with these two, while getting some great images in the process!

Oscar

2009-01-19T12:14:00.008-06:00

My good friend Oscar contacted me saying he needed some fresh images for his soon-to-be-updated website, oscarpassley.com, so we got together and made it happen!

tech info: strobe - one SB-24 (usually at 1/2 or 1/4 power) inside a 28-inch softbox. camera - Nikon D300.

Claudia & Osiel | Wedding

2009-01-04T18:23:00.013-06:00

We managed to squeeze in another gorgeous wedding before the year was up! Claudia and Osiel were great to photograph...and they made sure I had as much fun at their wedding as possible!

Claudia . Ravishing:

I really dig this image, taken as they exited the sanctuary:

first dance:

their beautiful reception was held at the Pegasus Room at the Magnolia:

then Son Yemaya kept the party going all night!:

Congrats, you two!

Keya & Wade | Wedding

2008-12-30T19:07:00.008-06:00

A few of my favorites from their Weatherford, TX wedding:

ring bearer...cute little guy:

Keya's entrance:

I guess, theoretically, I'd be able to continue breathing without my PocketWizards. But would that be a life worth living?:

The Jordans

2008-12-13T13:00:00.003-06:00

Holiday portraits!

Colin, Preston, and Nolan

2008-12-11T09:44:00.006-06:00

These guys were too much fun! Every time I do a shoot involving kids I'm reminded of how great it was to be one:

see what I mean?:

tag:

you're it:

the lady killer:

on top of the world:

iOLAP Christmas Party

2008-12-10T10:47:00.003-06:00

The folks at iOLAP know how to party! Great group of people. I had a great time covering their Christmas party this year:

'tis the season

2008-12-06T16:59:00.002-06:00

Two and a half hours at malls and whatnot...

...all I can come up with is a couple of pairs of socks:

I hate shopping.

Toss up

2008-12-05T13:35:00.002-06:00

The dilemmas never end; decisions to be made; ~~toys~~ tools to be purchased.

Front runner - Nikkor 85mm f/1.4:

The sexiness of this lens is self-evident to my fellow Nikon shooters. Can't wait to get my hands on one. I'm in the grips of an all-out obsession with ultra-fast prime lenses (gimme). The creamy bokeh produced by this beast is unparalleled by anything in the Nikkor line. It's a head shot machine...

BUT...

Since I've gone full time with my business I've been spending more and more time at my not-so-comfy workstation. And my aching back, shoulders, and neck are painful reminders that I've got to do something about my posture/seating.

I'm considering the Herman Miller Aeron:

Seems these are hard to beat in the ergo/comfort department. My wallet's telling me 'don't be silly' but my back is screaming 'do not sit again until it's on one of these.' I guess my health and longevity are worth it, eh?

Not sure which way to go first. Anyone have any long term experience with the Aeron?

honorable mentions:
Canon Sd1100 -- I don't really have a knock-around P&S camera for fun pics.
PocketWizard PlusII -- I could stand to have a few more of these lying around.

Santa needs to roll through here early this year...and maybe more than once.

Site Updates

2008-12-02T08:26:00.007-06:00

Updates to my website have been long overdue. Now that the wedding season is just about over, I've had a chance to give the site a little TLC. I've added a few featured galleries, a new kids gallery, and updated images.

LathonPhotography.com

Jasmine's many faces

2008-11-28T07:23:00.000-06:00

My niece is such a silly one:

Happy Turkey Day

2008-11-27T00:00:00.000-06:00

Sara

2008-11-25T12:04:00.001-06:00

Head shots of an amazing pianist:

For the Strobist army out there: SB28, 1/4 power, through a 43" brolly. White reflector in some cases.

After we got the head shots done we made a few more images.

My personal favorite from the session:

My head shot sessions are generally around 1 hour and include one 8x10 for reproduction. The files are also available for purchase. For more info email me at info(a)lathonphotography.com

2008-11-25T07:34:00.004-06:00

Storage: The Never-Ending Quest

2008-11-23T15:10:00.005-06:00

Project: I'm thinking of building/buying a RAID.

Problem: I have NO clue what I'm doing!

Any suggestions out there? My main concerns are discerning which level of RAID will work best for me. I'm thinking mirrored. I'm also concerned with speed. I shoot JPEG primarily so 2-3 TBs will probably do me just fine for now.

Any ideas, my techie friends?

Megan & David | Wedding

2008-11-22T16:41:00.014-06:00

This was destined to be an enjoyable wedding! My baby sister, Macy, served as Megan's matron of honor. It was great being able to spend time with her...even if I was working!

gotcha:

I think David's dad smiled the whole day:

The Two Beauties, Macy and Megan:

Natalie & Keith | Engagement

2008-11-22T16:07:00.007-06:00

Just a few favorites from our session on the campus of UNT and other parts of the Denton area:

Natalie was hilarious, as usual:

Denton is filled with tons of little beautiful nooks:

we had beautiful autumn weather:

It turns out that this spot is very special to them. They've spent a lot of time here over the years:

Israel & Annamarie | Engagement

2008-11-21T14:10:00.012-06:00

You could say this e-session was a little different than most!

When Anna and Israel first discussed their January '09 wedding plans with me I was told it was their wish to be the last couple to be married in the soon-to-be replaced Texas Stadium OR the first married in the Cowboys' new digs. They're Dallas Cowboy fanatics, you see. I was thrilled, of course, at the idea of being involved in such an out-of-the-ordinary wedding.

Well, these guys, being the incredibly fun couple that they are, decided to move their wedding destination to Waikiki. I know, I know...I love my job.

But their fan-hood wouldn't allow for a lack of Cowboys related photos, so we headed out to Texas Stadium for some of the engagement pics:

being a fan of 'America's Team' myself, we had to include the Ring of Honor...and the 'Triplets':

the tunnel:

Israel found this in the pro shop:

love the light:

Katrina & Tyler | Wedding

2008-11-19T16:37:00.017-06:00

Tyler and Katie are married! And I couldn't have asked for better conditions out at the beautiful White Oaks Ranch.

*note - An independent study has shown that my brides are in fact cooler than yours:

nice moment just before heading down the aisle:

Katie was all smiles during the ceremony:

I'm a sucker for sunsets:

love this one:

sorority sisters:

I'd be a fool not to mention Katrina's incredible letterpress work. Check it out!

Congrats, guys!

Scott & Charnell | Wedding (and more!)

2008-11-18T15:38:00.010-06:00

Some favorites from their wedding! I had such a great time hanging with them and their families during their cruise. I'm glad to have such great people as friends!

beaches of Cozumel:

I love Mexico:

Chichén Itzá:

prepping for the wedding:

Hopefully this will 'break the seal' on the flurry of blog posts that is far over due!

Zack & Alli | An Update

2008-10-23T15:52:00.010-05:00

Check out their album design!

Hopefully I'll be able to catch up on some blogging soon. Things have been a bit hectic to say the least!!!

I shall return...

2008-08-22T23:01:00.002-05:00

I'm off to shoot Scott and Charnell's Caribbean cruise wedding! Hopefully I'll be back next week with a bunch of cool images...and some sand between my toes.

Jodi & Kipp | Wedding

2008-08-16T00:00:00.020-05:00

What a beautiful wedding this one was! You simply can't lose on the gorgeous beaches of the Mayan Riviera. Paring my favorites down for this post has been a bit of a task...so be sure to check out the slide show as well!

Oh...have I mentioned that I have the coolest job in the world?

We did a quick family session the morning of the wedding...and it was great! Kipp, Jodi, and their daughter, Kella (a real sweetheart, by the way), hung out on the beach while I snapped away:

the stunning bride:

the groom:

Kella wanted to help with Mommy's preparations:

first kiss:

the light nerd in me wanted to hang out here all day:

fun with rings:

It may take a while to load...it's worth the wait!

Charnell | Bridal

2008-08-15T15:38:00.001-05:00

Just a few favorites from her recent bridal session:

Her Caribbean cruise wedding is next week, so expect some photos soon!

More blocks

2008-07-22T15:37:00.006-05:00

looks like I've got a full-blown hobby.

a third painting:

Megan | Bridal

2008-07-17T23:35:00.011-05:00

*note* - Not for David's eyes at all. You know who you are.

Megan's such a beautiful bride-to-be! Something tells me getting great images at her wedding is going to be a breeze. Here are some of my favorites from her session:

I've been getting some great files out of the D300:

My brides are cooler than your brides:

Wytha

2008-07-17T18:06:00.009-05:00

This session was way too much fun. Wytha's got such a great little smile and had so many kooky faces for the camera:

grass is no fun:

ok...it's not so bad:

I love this one! She means business:

Wytha's workin' the chompers. Check out Alicia's face:

an infant's universal truth - fingers taste good:

call me crazy...but this is cute:

A second painting

2008-07-16T16:01:00.010-05:00

entitled 'Steven Jackson Ruined My Fantasy Season'

This was too much fun...reminded me of being kid again. I think I would have liked it better without the orange and blue. Maybe I'll do another like it one day.

*update*

round 2

101 in 1001 | an update

2008-07-15T15:11:00.005-05:00

After much procrastination I get to check another item off my list, thanks to some incredible inspiration of late:

#2 - paint a picture.

'A Sonnet's Silhouette'

It's hard to believe I actually got around to completing my first painting! All it took was a canvas, a few brushes, and some acrylic paints. I had so much fun doing this one I think I'll try at least a few more soon. Maybe I'll post them if they're not too embarrassing.

Sticks & Stones

2008-07-07T14:21:00.006-05:00

Word cloud made up from stuff on this blog. Check 'em out.

New Camera!

2008-07-05T08:05:00.001-05:00

...and I absolutely love what Nikon's come up with. I'll spare you all the nerdy details as there are proper reviews all over the net. But I will say that I'm sure this camera will change what I can do...especially in low light. The high ISO performance is WAY better than anything I've been using. Not quite up to what the D3 is capable of but great nonetheless.

And the custom menu is ridiculous. My D300 is basically just a really smart extension of my arm after tweaking things just how I like 'em. I'm in love with this camera!

It's only been a few days but it feels like I've been shooting with it for years:

sexy...yeah, I know:

Bukowski @ ISO 3200:

Barkley, the superstar, @ ISO 1600. With the D200 or D70 this would have been a noise disaster:

the man. the myth. the clown:

I'm very pleased with the images it produced from the first gig I used it on, which I'll blog in a few days. Until then...

James & Kendra | Headshots

2008-07-04T12:55:00.012-05:00

Sometimes I'm amazed at how many incredibly talented people I've been lucky enough to know over the years.

James is definitely in that category. He's a multi-talented musician and singer (freakin' Dallas Opera!) who's got nothing but great things ahead of him, I'm sure.

He and his wife, Kendra, contacted me about updating their headshots and getting some fun photos of them together.

one SB-28 into a 36" Photek Softlighter (which goes with me everywhere now). Reflector for fill. I like to keep it simple:

This one probably doesn't work too well as usable headshot but I dig it:

clamshell lighting:

off-camera, CTO-gelled flash. Zoomed the flash beam to isolate them. I should get around to making that snoot:

an SB-28 used as a rim light:

Little Man

2008-07-01T21:46:00.008-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I got a chance to hang out with my good friends, Ben and Kris, at Ben's dad's annual par-tay. Besides enjoying the festivities I also got to finally meet their newborn, Toby. It's nice to see how proud these two are of the little guy. They make a beautiful family!

T.J. soaking it all in:

proud parents:

motherly love:

I challenged this 7-week-old kid to a staring contest and lost:

This little dude doesn't miss a thing. He's got upper management written all over him:

three generations:

livin' the life:

gotta shoot the tiny toes:

Nikon keeps pushing

2008-07-01T01:44:00.001-05:00

this is too sexy.

The little things...

2008-06-29T23:17:00.016-05:00

About six months ago I went about creating my '101 in 1001' list. Simply, it's a list of 101 things I'd like to accomplish, be them big or small, in the the subsequent 1001 days. I ran across the concept a while back and thought it was a great idea. So far I've been able to cross off quite a few, such as:

#45 - sell my old car
#49 - write a letter to a friend
#67 - visit my big sister
#86 - watch the Indiana Jones movies (can you believe I'd never seen them???)

But, believe it or not, #1 on my list is to start a potted herb garden.

I love to cook. And any good cook will tell you that fresh herbs are better than dried. However, in the absurdity department, the supermarket prices of fresh herbs are rivaled only by that of petroleum and those silly coffee beans eaten and pooped by lemurs. So, somehow, it was the first thing that came to mind when creating my list. Now I can cross it off:

Rosemary - I went for a cool, creeping variety. I can taste the lamb chops already:

Basil - tomato/basil pizza sounds like a winner:

Mint - Can anyone say Mojito?

I look forward to adding a few more herbs soon like dill, cilantro, thyme, and chives. And I'm sure I'll get a kick out of using them. Without my '101 in 1001' I wonder if I'd ever have gotten around to it. Who knows?

Joey Lawrence

2008-06-25T08:16:00.000-05:00

...and I'm not talking about this has-been, butt-of-nostalgic-pop culture-jokes, 90's reject:

no, no...not that guy (who now, ironically, has absolutely NO hair at all).

I'm referring to wiz kid, 18-year-old, photography superstar Joey Lawrence. The real Joey Lawrence, if you ask me. You have to check his stuff out...then pick your jaw up off the floor.

Don't worry...

2008-06-24T16:14:00.003-05:00

I'm still alive. Hope to update soon with some new images and other exciting news! Lots of great new opportunities are on the horizon as well as some fancy new equipment *big stupid grin*. So, don't give up on me!

If you simply must be entertained until a proper blog post presents itself go ahead and check this out:

just a snippet of the never-ending greatness that is Kige Ramsey.

Remember...go get tested.

2008-05-26T12:22:00.000-05:00

Ha.

obligatory hump day post III

2008-05-21T15:30:00.005-05:00

1. Why??? Maybe it's just a bad dream.

2. Did you know Exxon Mobil made $1300 per second in 2007? Sickening...

3. The Spurs, once again, have nullified any and all enjoyment that I may have experienced during the '08 NBA playoffs. Really, do they have to be in the mix every season? Boooo Spurs.

*game 1 update*

I'm smiling...for now.

*game 2 update*

The smile is almost permanent.

a quick trip home

2008-05-21T14:04:00.007-05:00

It was so nice to spend sometime with my family over the weekend. My sister, brother-in-law, and niece came in from Florida. I was so glad to have seen everyone! We even got in a quick 10 minute family photo session...starring Jasmine, in all of her 18-month-old glory.

she's all grown up now. As sweet as they come...a little diva, too. Just like her mother.

Macy, David, and Jasmine:

they both pout pretty well:

I'm fairly sure she's daddy's girl:

of course by the time my turn came around she was pretty much fed up with the whole situation:

"Uncle 'Mayne, did I ever tell you how goofy you are?":

"ok... I'm done."

salmonella

2008-05-11T22:15:00.001-05:00

...hurts.

I don't recommend contracting it, as I have.

*update*
ok...it really hurts.

My top 5 daily blog reads...

2008-05-07T15:30:00.004-05:00

There are tons more that I read everyday but here's a list of the five I wouldn't do without. Check 'em out:

1. Strobist
- A must read for me. In the realm of photography-geekdom it's as good as it gets. I'm always learning something from this blog.

2. Becker's Blog
- Ask any wedding photographer about Becker. You'll get the same answer: The man.

3. Joe McNally
- When photojournalism students fantasize about 'one day shooting for National Geographic' what they really mean is that they want to be this guy.

4. Post Secret
- Great spot to laugh or cry.

5. Marmaduke Explained
- a very guilty pleasure...also pure, unadulterated genius.

obligatory hump day post II

2008-05-07T08:00:00.002-05:00

1. Congrats to Ben and Kris on their baby boy!

2. My niece, Jasmine, is growing like crazy...what a big girl! Already in the pocket book, I see:

3. I've had an epiphany...a multifaceted one:

Watching the Hornets win this series will please me greatly.

There is only one thing that would please me more.

That thing will be to watch the Spurs lose this series.

Diana & Jason | Wedding

2008-05-06T17:57:00.019-05:00

Here are a few shots from their Friday evening wedding in Plano:

all smiles in the dressing room:

I've been playing with some layer blending in PS:

the ladies:

tell me this isn't the cutest thing you've ever seen:

Molly didn't catch the bouquet but it's OK...I already shot her wedding!:

these two had fun at their wedding...and so did I!

obligatory hump day post

2008-04-30T15:24:00.001-05:00

Today after lunch I got a chance to goof off with one of my new Photek Softlighters.

I like it...should get a lot of use. I think I'll pick up one of the large versions, too.

in the back yard working on overpowering daylight with my strobes with my only willing model:

I love my mama!

2008-04-30T13:31:00.003-05:00

I received a surprise package from her today: fresh new bath towels...just because! I've got the best mother in the world! Love you!!!

J.T. & Whitney | Maternity

2008-04-30T12:08:00.005-05:00

This was a lot of fun to do...can't wait to get together to photograph their newborn, Landon Michael!

I love this image:

here's the star of the show, born Apr 10, 2008 (stole this one from Whit's myspace profile...don't tell):

Good lookin' kid, eh?

I can't congratulate these two enough!

Molly & James | Wedding

2008-04-24T02:08:00.013-05:00

What a beautiful weekend! This was one of those situations where everything came together: gorgeous weather, a lakeside ceremony, two wonderful people surrounded by people who love them... That it was the wedding of one of my best friends made it all the better. I can't thank James and Molly enough for allowing me to document their wedding day.

on the docks out at Sneaky Pete's on Lake Lewisville:

Molly's eyes are deadly. Beware:

mother of the groom:

mother of the bride (wonder where Molly got those eyes?):

the bubbly:

Mr. & Mrs. Mann and Mr. & Mrs. Mann:

this will make a nice double-page spread in their album:

hells yeah:

Molly and her father. I really like their serene expressions:

Molly's brother and father:

Diana caught the bouquet! I guess it worked because I'm shooting her wedding tomorrow!

exiting the ceremony:

Speed Junkie

2008-04-23T00:32:00.015-05:00

*third-party success*

This little bundle of greatness just arrived today... and I love it already. It's tack sharp, constant f/2.8, and takes up minimal room in my bag. Did I mention it's nearly three times less expensive than Nikon's 17-55mm f/2.8 and way sharper than the 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5? It also feels a lot more substantial than I had imagined, which pleases me; I'm not rough on my equipment but I use the hell out of it.

I'm not a tech-nerd. Distortion tests, chromatic aberration, fall-off...who cares. I've never looked at an image and thought, "barrel distortion's a little much, eh?" I want speed and brutal sharpness in my lenses. So far I'm thinking this one delivers.

I guess value is the word that comes to mind concerning this Tamron. Why spend $1,200 when you can get similar performance for less? Besides, that frees up the budget for more cool stuff.

Here are the first three frames taken with my new 17-50mm:

"When I discover who I am, I'll be free." - Ralph Ellison

say 'cheese':

Happy Hump Day!

Diana & Jason | Engagement

2008-04-19T11:36:00.003-05:00

What a beautiful day...check out their slide show!

Congrats to J.T. & Whitney!

2008-04-18T23:14:00.006-05:00

They're proud new parents to Landon Michael, born April 10!

Here's a shot from J.T. & Whitney's maternity session we did not too long ago:

a plan to post some more soon so stay tuned!

Allison & Zack | Wedding

2008-04-18T13:47:00.011-05:00

I'm a sucker for the details of a wedding day...the little stuff that brides/planners agonize over for months. This beautiful wedding was chock-full of 'em! There were simply too many of my favorites to choose from..but here are a few.

April from Princess Bride Productions did an amazing job:

a couple of ring shots:

how cute is this kid?:

beautiful bride + great window light:

the guys played a little poker to pass some time:

I really dig this one:

Alli and Zack, I wish you the best!

Toit...like a Toiger

2008-04-17T17:30:00.000-05:00

So, I'm back on the old diet-and-bowflex routine. After a few months of eating whatever I wanted and pretty much avoiding exercise at all costs, I've been back on the wagon for about the last three weeks. Feels good.

If you're a dude who's concerned about his weight do yourself a favor and read The Testosterone Advantage Plan. Before Miguel recommended this book to me 3 years ago I was 50 pounds heavier. Because of what I learned I've been able to keep it all off.

I highly recommend this book to the waistband-challenged.

one down...

2008-04-17T11:47:00.001-05:00

Today is the 1st anniversary of Lathon Photography! This first year has flown by... I've achieved some of my goals, missed a few, learned a lot, and best of all I've met some great people along the way. And don't get me started on how much fun I've had...

I'm excited about the future! I think I'll celebrate tonight.

Angela & Doyle | Engagement

2008-04-16T23:06:00.001-05:00

It seems like yesterday I was roaming the halls of Bryan High School...back when Hilfiger was in, gas was still under a buck a gallon, and I was munching on deadly pizza pockets and sipping Capri Suns everyday at lunch. That was almost ten years ago...these two, my classmates, have been together all this time! And I'm pretty sure it shows in their photos.

my favorites:

I'm looking forward to their wedding in August. I've got a feeling I'll see some familiar faces.

happy tax season!

2008-04-14T12:49:00.001-05:00

Damn the man.

*click the image for a bigger view*

WTD

I've seen the light

2008-04-13T22:33:00.000-05:00

An old friend of mine, her mother, father, grandmother and I got together at their home for a quick portrait session not too long ago. I did the shoot, which lasted about 30 mins, packed my gear in about 3 minutes, then hit the road, pleased at the portability of the set-ups I'm currently using.

You see, I used to lug around my big studio lights and softboxes because for a light nerd like me there's nothing more coveted than the light from a huge softbox...but they're hell to drag around! For now, as I work nearly 100% on-location, I'll stick to my Strobist-inspired set-ups.

Two light set-up. One strobe shot through an umbrella. One bare, camera right:

Single shoot-through:

the light from the 43" shoot-through is soft, but I'm thinking for even better softbox-quality lighting (portable is the key here) I'll pick up a Photek Softlighter or two:

I've got a portrait special running through May 31st! For more info email me at info(at)lathonphotography(dot)com!

Pablo Neruda

2008-04-12T12:21:00.000-05:00

A gift to any and all LP blog stalkers. Beautiful:

Enjoy the weekend!

Matt & Kelly | An Update!

2008-04-11T02:38:00.000-05:00

here's a sneak peek at their album design:

Megan & David | Engagement

2008-03-27T00:04:00.000-05:00

It's not puppy love!

Megan and my little sis have been really good friends for ages...so I was really excited to hear that I'll be photographing her wedding!

These two are huge animal lovers and couldn't resist bringing along their three pups for their engagement session:

order:

chaos:

-Canine closeups-

Chloe:

Flash:

Jeff:

I really dig this one:

Jeff's a good boy:

Erica & Matt | Wedding

2008-03-07T18:28:00.000-06:00

I'm almost sad this one is over! It's always nice getting to know a couple...over the course of several months to a year; through engagement session, bridal sessions, and of course, the wedding. It creates a really cool dynamic that I really dig. Here are a few favorites from Matt & Erica's big day:

Erica was one of the most relaxed wedding-day-brides-to-be I'll probably ever encounter:

Erica's makeup map:

Matt was getting plenty of love from his parents:

groom's cake:

the above photo should offer some explanation of the below:

the red-headed step child

2008-02-13T17:10:00.000-06:00

Poor blog. I've been neglecting you, due to my condition as a busy man (...a very welcome condition). Do not fret. I will again, one day, enlist you for the purpose of disseminating jibber-jabber to the few who look to you for said jibber-jabber.

Poor, poor jibber-jabber blog.

A dissedent's Bowl..

2008-02-03T22:01:00.000-06:00

Super Bowl party in Philadelphia
+
Cowboys fans
+
Eagles fans

=

a collective disdain for both of this year's Super Bowl teams

for us there are no winners.

I'm still here!!!

2008-02-01T08:51:00.000-06:00

This is one of those moments in which I'm kicking myself for ignoring my gut feeling. Something told me not to book with AirTran. I'd advise against it. I'm not the type to go around bad-mouthing but I'll NEVER fly with these guys again. There's a difference between being a crappy airline and just being negligent.

I've been at this airport since 8:30pm...all the while lounging at my specified terminal. A about 20 mins before the boarding time printed on my ticket, I went to customer service to check for any delays. I find out that there aren't any delays...in fact the flight had been changed to another gate and left 15 minutes prior! No announcement, no warning, no nothing! Not even an 'Oh...sorry.' People are raising hell left and right. If I weren't so exhausted it would almost be funny.

These guys burn me up...

Many, many frustrations...

2008-01-31T23:51:00.000-06:00

So... I should have been in Philadelphia three hours ago. Instead, I'm spending the night at Hartsfield International in Atlanta. Not so much fun. And in case you weren't aware, the Department of Homeland Security has set our current threat level at ORANGE!!! And just in case you weren't aware, I'm shaking in my threat level boots.

And just in case you weren't aware, my threat level boots are made of 100% genuine, grade A sarcasm. The threat level recording at the airport plays at what appears to be 4 min intervals. By my calculations I've been subjected to it 75 times during my short time here at ATL. Only 122 more to go!

To place a big putrid cherry atop the whole situation, my cell phone carrier (who shall remain nameless...rhymes with 'squint') has placed some silly code on my account that has prevented me from making or receiving calls, texts, pics, vids, smoke signals...they'd love to help but I need to call from another phone that I don't own (?)

AND THEY'RE PLAYING A MICHAEL MCDONALD TUNE RIGHT NOW!

The only way this could get any worse is if the flight I take tomorrow ends up marooned on a mystical island, leaving me to the other survivors to fend for ourselves against the malevolent forces of the others who inhabit the same place...which reminds. I missed the season premier!

Lucky for me there's a Vonnegut novel in my possession just waiting to be tackled...and there's always YouTube. Lots of YouTube.

Kelly & Matt | Wedding

2008-01-30T13:45:00.000-06:00

Shooting this wedding reminded me of why I love doing this!

Here are just a few of my favorites:

having a laugh with Kelly's grandmother:

Kelly's gown was beautiful:

a moment with Dad:

seconds before heading down the aisle:

just after the ceremony:

Kelly = Greatness:

the flower girl was a cutie:

the reception was held at the 100-year-old Scottish Rite Cathedral in Dallas. Check out the beautiful woodwork:

a wonderful place for first dance as man and wife:

Recession?

2008-01-24T12:57:00.000-06:00

sounds like a grand idea to me.

test post from treo

2008-01-18T16:10:00.000-06:00

blah

More Lightroom kudos

2008-01-02T21:15:00.001-06:00

I can't put into words how much I recommend this software. It's almost like it was designed to alleviate all those little post production pains in my neck.

Importing files is a piece of cake. Auto backups and auto file-renaming are just a matter of a few clicks.

Editing no longer trudges along. I've gotten pretty fast with Photoshop by using custom actions and shortcuts, but LR flies! This is the reason I considered incorporating LR into my work flow and I've not been disappointed. I flew through 1,400 images from my last wedding in a matter of a 3-4hours. All that's left is just a few finishing touches to my favorites in Photoshop. I'm sure once I'm more accustomed that time frame will shorten still.

a recent bridal session:

About 80% of the time I'm shooting in manual mode. With the consistent files I get as a result, LR's 'sync' function is like a gift from above. Adjust one image from a group of similar images, sync them...you're done.

Really well-designed and fun to work with, I think.

01.01.08

2008-01-01T21:57:00.000-06:00

The best part of the holidays for me is getting to spend time with the family - something I don't get to do often enough.

My niece, Jasmine, is growing so fast. Crazy what 14 months will do. Her little personality is just busting out (mostly in the form of gurgles):

she loves granny:

R.J., my nephew, is one of the most hilarious 8-year-olds you'll run across. Every time I see him I'm reminded of how much fun it was to be a kid...especially on Christmas day:

Happy New Year! (and my late Christmas)

2008-01-01T00:39:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year to any and all LP blog-stalkers out there. I'm sure an eventful, and fruitful 2008 is in store for us all!

What better way to celebrate than with new ~~tools~~ toys?!?

1. Adobe Photoshop Lightroom - I'm in love with this software. In fact, I'm positive it's the best investment I've made in my business so far (besides my beloved 80-200mm 2.8). This was designed with the high-volume photographer in mind and it shows. I'm really excited about having it. Kinda kicking myself for waiting as long as I did!

2. Western Digital 500GB External HD - more storage is always a good thing.

3. Western Digital 250GB Passport Portable HD - this thing is so, so sleek and slim. And thanks to the wackiness of retail I got it at an insanely good price. Couldn't resist.

4. Off-site storage/hosting with Zenfolio. Cheap service. Clean design. UNLIMITED space. I've become fairly picky about redundant backups...this should give me another level of security.

Amanda & Scott | Wedding

2007-12-27T20:54:00.001-06:00

These two have been waiting patiently for this...I'm not quite done editing but I'm posting a few of my favorites so far.

This was a cold one! It was tons of fun,though, and quite beautiful:

gotta love the details:

looks delicious, right?

Amanda and her mother shared a quiet moment before the ceremony:

Sisters:

if you look close you can see the freezing rain:

to be continued...

Living Blues

2007-12-13T13:54:00.000-06:00

The oldest and most respected magazine dedicated to the world of blues has published one of my images! It's part of a really cool story on Pops Carter, so be sure to pick up a copy of the December issue.

I made this image during the Denton Blues Festival back in September. *Click here to see more*

a random Tuesday...and a little boost from J.C.

2007-12-10T23:49:00.000-06:00

this was a good jump-start to my day...thought I'd share it.

I loves me some Coltrane...almost as good as a nice cup of coffee...well not really.

Now I'll brew some up and get back to work.

Erica & Matt | Engagement

2007-12-02T18:52:00.000-06:00

...yet another really fun engagement session. We chose to meet in Dallas' fine arts district to take advantage of the interesting architecture and what-not. Turned out to be a beautiful day!

I'm very eager to shoot their wedding in early '08. Erica and Matt are two of the nicest people you'll come across...and they welcome my silly portrait ideas with open arms! I'm going to have a ball.

I've been digging silhouettes lately:

When?

2007-11-29T02:17:00.001-06:00

I've been burning my proverbial candle at both ends and will be glad to see a little rest and time off when I can.

It's the little things - I miss reading as much as I'd like to (I've got a pile on my must-read list) and it'd be nice to get back into an exercise routine. And salsa! It's been a good while since I've danced and I'm missing my friends.

When will I find the time to breathe, think, and do? "Soon," says the little, optimistic voice of self-motivation in my head. I'm pretty drained right now but the weirdest part is that it doesn't feel like I'm working. Reminds me of a Richard Bach quote I ran across:

"The more I want to get done, the less I call it work."

I guess I get it.

Yum...

2007-11-22T22:00:00.000-06:00

I like turkey. I like beef more. I prefer a grilled ribeye to most other foods on earth.

Behold, my first (and probably not my last) 'ribeye and dressing' dinner.

...besides, you can't eat turkey rare.

Kelly & Matt | Engagement

2007-11-22T21:16:00.000-06:00

I love this job.

I get to play with fancy photo equipment, immerse myself into the one thing that I'm most passionate about, and most importantly, I get a chance to interact (goof off) with some of the coolest couples on earth. My idea of heaven.

Kelly and Matt definitely fall into the cool couple category. The weather was great and we just roamed around the campus of UNT for the afternoon.

these guys are UNT alums and true fans. Matt scored access to Fouts Field:

Matt's turn...the guy's pretty funny:

Turkey Day 'Top 5'

2007-11-21T23:37:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

This has to be one of my favorite holidays on the calendar...a short list of why:

5. It's one of the few days of the year I consume cranberry products that aren't in the form of juice.

4. Spending time with the fam (I vow to myself this will be the last Thanksgiving I spend away from my family)

3. Cowboys/Lions - an NFL tradition

2. The 'A Christmas Story' marathon - do they still do that?

1. My mother's incredible dressing...and everything else.

honorable mention: tryptophan

Enjoy the holiday!

Jasmine's 1st

2007-11-17T23:18:00.000-06:00

Nov. 16 marks my niece's 1st birthday. She's growing up so fast. My sis sent this pic from her party:

my girls:

cool fact: Jasmine shares her birthday with my older brother! Happy birthday to 'Meathead', too!

Three random (very) questions...

2007-11-15T16:18:00.000-06:00

How did I ever make it without a Palm Treo?
How 'bout them Cowboys?
What's the hold up?

a Flickr find...

2007-11-13T01:37:00.001-06:00

2 ((Три красных шара)), originally uploaded by Seeking Ariadna.

blog-worthy, I'd say. Love it.

Gigi & Billy | Engagement

2007-11-10T18:31:00.000-06:00

We had a great time doing this one! We shot the entire session at Meritt Bois 'd arc Buffalo Ranch, which is also the location they've chosen for the ceremony. I'm sure they'll have a beautiful wedding day there.

Gigi and Billy have a really cool, funky energy that made them really easy to photograph. Hopefully we'll get to work together in the future! I had a ball:

my favorite from their session:

another Lathon Photography signature sunset portrait:

the reception hall at the ranch has a huge bar. we couldn't resist:

the gang - Gigi, Billy, their stylist (she got shanghaied into holding my lights, too!), and yours truly: