http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm Jeremy Lawson Photography Blog en-us http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=651 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=651 Tue, 15 May 2012 18:37:00 GMT

RAWR! Felix lets out one of his most menacing growls.

Look at how jaw-droppingly scared Charlie is! Mission accomplished, Felix!

Don't feel bad, Charlie. You'll have a chance to get even soon enough.

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=650 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=650 Tue, 15 May 2012 18:26:00 GMT Antique Taco's grand opening is May 16th!

This brand new Wicker Park eatery is owned and operated by Ashley and Rick. I had an engagement session with this super fun couple last summer.

They asked me back to shoot a private Grand Opening celebration they were hosting for friends and family.

Ashley and Rick love antiques and vintage decorations. They found everything on display in the restaurant on their own antiquing trips.

Here's Rick, the owner and chef, prepping one of the inaugural tacos.

Rick's creation looked and smelled delicious. I couldn't wait to try one for myself!

Ashley, who's on the far left, was mixing up some specialty cocktails.

There were a ton of goodies for the guests to enjoy...

...including this Habanero-seasoned popcorn.

Agua Fresca with pureed fruit, simple syrup and fresh lemon juice.

A mouth-watering (and vegetarian-friendly!) market mushroom taco.

This crispy fish taco was screaming my name.

I had a belly full of tacos, but you know I saved room for a treat. Abuelita's Pop Tart? You don't have to ask me twice.

Congratulations on your restaurant, Ashley and Rick! I'll be back soon to get my taco fix! And everyone check Antique Taco in Wicker Park- they'll be open on May 16th!

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=649 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=649 Wed, 25 Apr 2012 21:06:00 GMT

Bongo is a natural in front of the camera.

And his owners aren't too bad, either.

Taking photos is hard work...

...and it was time for a snack.

Arrrgh! It's always so hard to decide. I'd like one of everything, please.

But a shake hit the spot on this day.

I had a great time spending the afternoon with you, Brad and Emily! I'm looking forward to photographing your wedding!

Emily and Brad met up with me for their engagement session a few days back, and I was excited for the shoot. I had been scouting new locations through the down months and was ready to try some of them out.

Watch out for Kool-Aid man!

He actually busted through the wall. It was crazy.

Oh, boy. I lost control of another engagement session.

I'll give you three guesses to figure out where Emily grew up.

Givin' the panda a belly rub.

Brad needs love, too!

You knew this was going to happen. I love a good play on words.

Brad and Emily show off their fresh moves by Doing The 'Urkel'.

We were having a great time... but it felt like something was missing...

I know! Their pup Bongo!

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=648 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=648 Tue, 24 Apr 2012 21:09:00 GMT
Janai's dress was hung up on the special hanger that bore her new name, "Mrs. Howard". She was at her hotel room downtown, getting more and more excited about her wedding to fiancee Ryan as Nika Vaughan put the final touches on Janai's hair and make-up.

Janai slid into her dress, which was designed by Maggie Sottero,...

...and one of her bridesmaids made sure the back of the dress was tied in a perfect bow.

Janai's mom was in the room, too, overseeing her daughter's preparations.

Gotta make sure that hair stays! One of the maids of honor gave Janai some hair insurance.

Ryan was in his hotel room getting ready at the same time. A quick shower, a careful shave, strap into the tux...

...and then time for the first meeting with his bride.

Ryan couldn't keep his eyes off of Janai. I hated to break up the moment so we could leave and get in some pre-ceremony pictures.

We started off in the nearby Art Institute gardens.

Their energy was contagious, and I could tell it was going to be a special day.

Ryan, Janai and I made our way around the grounds of the Art Institute.

As we left to meet up with the wedding party, we got photo bombed by this Stefon look-alike.

A quick pic at the El stop...

...and we jumped in a cab to head further downtown.

Then it was back to the hotel to meet up with the wedding party. Ryan's groomsmen were excited to see him!

It was a big wedding party- 9 groomsmen, 10 bridesmaids, 3 flower girls and 1 ring bearer- and the very definition of 'the more the merrier'.

The entire group were good sports as we posed around downtown for group shots.

You can't pass by the Chicago theater and NOT take a photo with the iconic marquee.

We were making great time!

But a glance at Ryan's very cool timepiece showed that it was time to get back for the ceremony.

The guys took the red line...

...while the girls rode in the limo. Janai's mom was along for the ride, making sure everything ran smoothly.

When Janai arrived at Loft on Lake, where the ceremony and reception were held, she was covered up by her bridesmaids so arriving guests wouldn't see her.

The guests didn't have long to wait to see her though, as soon after she was escorted down the aisle by her mother.

The bride and groom were overcome with happiness.

I love this picture of Ryan's mother. She looks so peaceful and nostalgic, reflecting on this most wonderful moment in her son's life.

Ryan and Janai locked eyes and smiled as the officiant began the ceremony.

The couple delivered their vows to each other in front of their friends and family.

Janai's mom had a huge smile on her face as her daughter and new son-in-law exchanged rings.

They both said "I do" and that was that! Congratulations!

Immediately after the ceremony, everyone moved into the reception area. J ... L Catering was there to provide guests with food and drink.

The wedding party makes their entrance...

...and the newlyweds were close behind. Janai was showing off her bouquet, which was designed by Natalie at Zuzu's Petals.

One of the best men took the mic to toast the new couple.

The other best man was up next with his speech.

Janai's first Maid of Honor shared some special memories with the guests...

...the other Maid of Honor had some loving advice.

Ryan was the last one up, and he thanked the guests for their love and support.

And then it was time for their first dance as husband and wife.

Once the first dance was over, the guests were quick to join them on the dance floor.

Dena from Toast ... Jam provided the soundtrack for the party.

Is she challenging me to a sing-off?!?! I don't think she knows what she's getting into...

I caught this moment of Janai with her grandfather as I began to make my way to the door.

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=647 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=647 Tue, 24 Apr 2012 21:07:00 GMT
Oh, boy. When someone gives me this look, I know I've given them some unclear direction.

Luckily, Benjamin's an experienced actor and knew exactly what to do. We were back on track in no time.

Benjamin contacted me to photograph his new headshots.

He's been in several Broadway and off-Broadway productions, including "Les Miserables" and "Sweeney Todd".

We were shooting around the Evanston area and ran into something you don't see everyday...

...a small herd of deer!

We finished up the session by taking some pictures of Benjamin with his cello.

Thanks for having me take your headshots, Benjamin!

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=646 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=646 Tue, 24 Apr 2012 20:47:00 GMT

Sparkles on the shoes...

And one happy, sparkly bride.

Reva was absolutely glowing as she prepared for her wedding to Jon. Mixed Company Salon had just finished with her hair and make-up, and the big moment was getting closer and closer.

Her bridesmaids and parents were right by her side in the dressing room of Salvage One.

Reva's Mom and one of her bridesmaids helped her finish by buttoning up the dress.

Reva had a quick minute to kick back and pose for a photo...

... and then we were off to meet up with Jon.

Jon was waiting for us in the garden courtyard of Salvage One, and he couldn't wait to see his bride.

I love it when couples cry at the first meeting.

After a few moments alone, the wedding party joined the happy couple for a group shot.

Reva and her girls took a few pictures...

...while the groomsmen showed off their stylin' socks.

There are two responses you can get when you ask people to pose in the courtyard well at Salvage One. Some people will go for it...

...and the rest give you this look. Actually, I get this look a lot.

Jon's Grandma couldn't have been happier for her grandson and Reva.

Reva's dad was all smiles, too.

The whole gang was having a good time posing for pictures, but it was time for the wedding party to go out for photos around the neighborhood. Reva's Mom gave her son a smooch good-bye and we were off.

This spot should look familiar to those who check my blog regularly. We went to take the train shot but found another photographer already there with a large wedding party. My secret spot has been found! No worries, though...

... there were a ton of great photos waiting to be taken back at Salvage One.

Like this mirror shot. How fun is that?

Jon and Reva played a round of air hockey. Jon scores!

But he got put in the penalty box for excessive celebration.

A quick look at the clock revealed that it was time for the Ketubah signing. The family gathered and Reva's mom presided over the ceremony.

I love this picture of Jon's grandma watching the Ketubah signing ceremony.

And have you ever seen a prouder papa?

Reva and Jon signed the Ketubah...

... and then got ready for the ceremony. Jon made his way to the altar while Reva got a hand taking down the bustle of her dress.

Reva looked radiant as her parents escorted her down the aisle.

Jon got a big hug as Reva's father gave her away.

Jon's dad looked on as the ceremony began.

Reva's stepmom read a special passage to begin the wedding.

And a close friend of the couple's presided over the ceremony.

Reva held Jon's ring in her hand as she made her wedding vows to him.

And Jon places the ring on Reva's hand after making his promise.

It was wrapped up with a big kiss.

Congratulations to the newlyweds!

The happy couple snuck away for a few moments alone...

...and the rest of us went downstairs for cocktail hour.

The guests, along with Jon and Reva, sipped cocktails and mingled while the final reception details were put into place.

I snuck upstairs to photograph the details while the cocktail hour wrapped up.

The tables were prepped, complete with centerpieces from Fleur.

Jordan's Food of Distinction had a delicious, personalized menu ready for guests to enjoy.

I was dying over the mini shakes. Jordan's had chocolate and orange for the guests to enjoy.

Mmmmmm.... pies...... Hoosier Mama Pie Company had baked nearly 20 varieties for dessert.

Cocktail hour wrapped up and all the guests made their way upstairs to take their seats. Everyone found their tables, but there were two seats left open...

The bride and groom, just before they make their big entrance.

Reva's dad was the first one to make a speech, thanking the guests for coming.

Jon's mom was up next with her toast.

Reva's mom had a great joke- Reva had asked that everyone keep their speeches short. They couldn't hold back laughs when Mom unrolled her scroll.

Reva's brother had some loving words for his sister and new brother.

The best man had the guests laughing with his speech.

Last up was the first of Reva's two maids of honor.

The final toast was given by the second maid of honor. There was a lot of love coming from all of the toast-givers!

After the speeches concluded, Jon and Reva enjoyed their first dance as husband and wife.

Next up were the traditional parent dances. Reva and her father enjoyed a laugh while they were dancing...

...while Jon and his mother reflected on the day.

Hora time!

Dancing the hora has to be one of my favorite wedding traditions. So much fun!

Dustin from Toast ... Jam was the DJ for the evening, and he made sure that everyone had a blast.

Party on, Reva and Jon! Congratulations on your marriage, and thanks for inviting me to spend the day with you!

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=645 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=645 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 16:34:00 GMT

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=644 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=644 Tue, 10 Apr 2012 20:31:00 GMT

I photographed Olivia's parent's wedding a few years ago, and while they were in town they asked me to do some family photos.

Olivia was trying her best, though. Some playtime with mom and dad helped out.

Olivia climbed some of the playground equipment...

...but that was it for the outdoor stuff. It was too cold out and she ready to relax.

We packed up and headed to Grandma and Grandpa's house. Ahhh... that's better.

Olivia tolerated a few more pictures...

...but she wasn't really feeling it.

Her dad had to laugh at her moodiness.

Then Olivia gave me a direct signal. It was my cue to leave.

Don't worry, Olivia! Your parents and I have already arranged for another photo session some other time. It was good to see you and your family, and I'll see you again soon!

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=643 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=643 Tue, 10 Apr 2012 20:25:00 GMT engagement photos and wedding two years ago. The happy parents were excited to have some photos taken of the newest addition to their family.

Selah was all smiles and giggles as her daddy got her ready.

The first place we went was the beautiful garden in Selah's front yard.

I didn't even ask for a pose. She's a pro!

Selah is curious and unafraid to explore the world around her! Here, she's tasting some flowers. You never know... could be delicious.

In the end, though, she decided it's more fun to play with flowers than taste them.

Whew! Playing works up an appetite. Time for a snack.

The fruit tasted way better than the flower.

All done! Selah's mom wiped up her face a bit...

...and then we headed inside for a few pictures.

Selah wanted to show me her favorite toy, a wooden spoon. She put on a great concert!

After the concert it was nap time.

Selah snuggled into her bed and said good-bye before dozing off.

It was wonderful seeing you and your family, Selah! I hope you continue to have fun as you explore the world!

]]> http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=642 http://webmail.jeremylawsonphotography.com/blog.cfm?postID=642 Tue, 10 Apr 2012 20:21:00 GMT baptism last year. She's a pro now, for sure. Elizabeth and her entourage (and teddy bear) arrived right on time and ready to work.

It was a beautiful day to be shooting by the lake, too.

Elizabeth looked adorable with her pigtails.

I thought she looked like Boo from that movie "Monsters, Inc."

Elizabeth was exploring the park and discovered a lake! Who knew?!?!

She carefully navigated the shoreline.

Her exploration was cut short when she had to take a phone call. Mom was on the other end with an important message: "It's sugar time!"

The treat was well-deserved after all of her excellent modeling work.

That's a wrap! Elizabeth rounded up her entourage and hit the road.

It was great seeing you and your mom again, Elizabeth! Have a happy and fun spring!

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