I first met Megan when I took her pictures when she was graduating from college. I was struck then by her calm easy demeanor and of course how beautiful she is, and as I usually do, I talk with my clients about their lives when we are shooting and ask lots of questions. Her eyes lit up when she talked about her guy, and how well he treated her. Then when we met again after she became engaged and we were talking about the photography for their upcoming wedding, she told me about the elaborate scavenger hunt he planned for her to pop the question. This young man certainly knows a thing or two about women! When I met him for the first time during this engagement shoot I saw instantly what a gentleman Brendan is, and how in love these two are. Brendan posted one of these images of the two of them throwing leaves on Facebook with the caption “This is what it is like marrying your best friend.” There isn’t really much I can say to top that! I can’t wait for their November wedding, it is going to be as gorgeous as they are together!
TALIA AND JOSH’S CROSS CREEK RANCH WEDDING
The first thing that comes to mind when I think of Talia and Joshua and their wedding is sunshine… and I don’t mean the weather related kind because the weather forecast for the day of their wedding was concerning to say the least. They chose the beautiful Cross Creek Ranch for their ceremony because of it’s beautiful outdoor location, and yet it seemed it was fated to rain. I think it was absolutely fitting that despite this, the sun came out for these two on May 16th and it was an absolutely perfect day! The truth is… sunshine, happiness, laughter and joy seem to follow this couple wherever they go… and on this day their many friends and loving family gathered round to share in their glow.
So many of the details from this wedding were made by Talia and her family… and I just love that! Notice the beautiful hand lettered signs, and the adorable wooden tags on the gift boxes. Everywhere you looked there were things that reminded you of how much thought, preparation and love went into this day. And that is the other thing that comes to mind when I think of this wedding… the love amongst everyone there. It emanated from Talia and Joshua at it’s center… but their family and friends overflowed with it as well… and I have to say, I don’t think I’ve ever seen a mother-of-the-bride happier for her little girl! Every time I looked at Talia’s mom Paula she was glowing with pride and joy. Talia was walked down the aisle by both her Father and her Step Father and it was beautiful… and the kindness and respect with which they all treated each other was so lovely. Josh’s parents were equally supportive and the prayer circle during the ceremony involving all five parents was such a moving part of the day. And there was laughter… so much laughter! Talia and Josh enjoyed every minute of their day and there were laughter and tears mingled together during their ceremony.
Talia and Josh’s bridal party consisted mainly of a core group of friends that have been together since high school! It says so much about this couple to have so many people who love and support them.
I am an incurable romantic and am adamant about taking adequate time for the couple photos on the wedding day… after all… that’s what it is all about… right?! These two are so enamoured with each other that that part was easy!
This reception was such a ball! There was amazing food, music and company and everyone danced into the night… I was especially charmed at the way Talia danced with her dad’s… singing the whole time!
Talia and Josh you will always be dear to us and I feel confident we will always be friends! You have spilled your sunshine onto Celeste and I and we were honored to be your wedding photographers! xoxo
Venue-Cross Creek Ranch/ Florals Cross Creek Ranch and Celia’s Florist/ DJ- SoundMasters/ Cake-Delicious Cakes and Great American Cookie Company/ Photo Booth- Bullseye/ Photography/Tamytha Cameron Photography
COURTNEY AND KEITH’S ROMANTIC DECEMBER WEDDING
Courtney and Keith are such wonderful people… warm, real, intelligent and very obviously in love. The first time I met them at Starbucks to talk wedding photography I knew I liked them. It was such a joy and honor to work with them through the engagement, bridal and wedding photography process… and even though Keith shared with me that he never really liked having his photo taken, you would certainly never know it, as he was a natural in front of my camera. Their ceremony was held at the lovely Perkins Chapel on the SMU campus and their reception at the beautiful Meadows Museum. I had so much fun with the family and friends surrounding this couple on their special day… so much connection and love was swirling about on this December day… and it was just wonderful to be a part of it.
The girls got ready for the ceremony at the chic Highland hotel and then made their way to the dressing area at Perkins Chapel, and as usual, these photos are some of my favorites… I am such a big fan of the camaraderie of women friends…
And just like that it was time for that once in a lifetime walk down the aisle… this couple did not do a first look so this was Keith’s first glimpse of Courtney in her dress…
I just love how romantic these photos of Courtney and Keith are… so beautifully intimate…
And the celebration began…
With well wishes, hugs and fond farewells… the couple made their way into the night…
We wish you every happiness you two!!!
THE BEST OF 2014
The intention was to have this post up and running the first week of January… but alas… crazy life got in the way and now January is almost over. Nevertheless I said I was going to do a “Best of 2014” blog post so here it is… and the old words ring true… better late than never! It is always a challenge and a joy to choose my favorite photos from a year of my work. I put my heart into every photo so there is a little something of me in every one… These 125 photos were chosen from a pared down pool of about 20,000 photos. I can’t always explain why I love a photo… suffice it to say that sometimes it’s simply aesthetics, sometimes meaning, and sometimes it is something personal… no matter the why I hope you enjoy these photos as much as I do.
BRITTANIE AND RAY SAY I DO!
Brittanie is one of those girls whose smile literally lights up a room. I met her some time back while on another job and we just clicked… not long after she contacted me, and told me that she wanted me to be her wedding photographer. It’s always an honor to be asked to be a part of something so very important to someone… and in this case especially so because I have a special place in my heart for this bubbly bride. I knew Britt for at least a year before I met Ray, but only a few days before the wedding this sweet couple had me over to their home for dinner and immediately upon meeting Ray I just loved him… he is so full of life and genuineness that you just can’t help it… and he so obviously is crazy about his bride. Their wedding took place at the lovely Marty Leonard Chapel in Fort Worth… full of amazing light and architectural beauty… and their reception was held at the Times Ten Cellars… what a perfect love filled celebration.
I met the girls at the Omni downtown for what is always one of my favorite parts of the day… the getting ready time… and not only were these girls having makeup and hair done… they were making bouquets, and doing all manner of crafty artsy things for the reception. This is a talented bunch of ladies.
Once everyone was suitably gorgeous we all made our way to the chapel where Britt would put on her dress and she and Ray would have a first look before the ceremony. There were so many lovely personal details to this wedding… most made by the bride and her loved ones…
There is something so symbolic and wonderful about a bride’s mom, sister and best friends helping her into her dress… beautifully clothing and adorning her so to speak for that next phase of her life…
Such a sweet first look… Celeste and I always feel a little bit like intruders into these moments… but now Britt and Ray can relive it again and again…
It was finally time for that walk down the aisle in front of all the loved ones…
As Britt and Ray were exiting this happened… they both reached for their dad’s hand… and I just love this image…
This group was so happy and so willing to pose for photos… and the results were well worth it… this dreamy gray and white color palette made for such lovely photos!
You would never have known it was 90 something degrees… everyone looked spectacular… and so happy!
The knot was tied… the photos, mostly taken… time to celebrate! Notice the adorable cupcake tower and the special details like the display board made from wine corks filled with well wishes from guests…
So much joy… laughter and tears… and an amazing time was had by all! We were so honored to capture it for you two! xoxo
Ceremony Venue: Marty Leonard Chapel/ Reception Venue: Times Ten Cellars Fort Worth / Catering: Johnny Carino’s/ Florals and Decor: The Bride and her friends and family/ Bridal Gown: Watters / Groom and Groomsmen’s attire: Al’s Formal Wear/ Makeup and Hair: Legacy Salons Adrienne Schoech/ Cupcake Tower: Len Thomas with Sweet Toppingz/ Photography: Tamytha Cameron Photography
CATHY AND LEN ARE NOW MR. AND MRS. … AND THE JOY OVERFLOWED…
Cathy is one of my very best friends in the world… actually, she is more like family. My two girls and I lovingly call Cathy and her two sons Chris and Stephen our twin family… because we all have so much in common and we regularly have twin family dinners whenever we are all in town… the kids in from various universities over the recent years. Of course we gladly welcome Len into our twin family and we are pretty crazy about this man who treats Cathy like a queen and always has… the man buys her shoes for heaven’s sake! And this aside Len is so caring toward all of his and Cathy’s friends and if there is a need he can meet or he can connect you with someone who can, you can consider it done. Cathy and Len are two of the most loving, interesting, nurturing people I have ever known, and we laugh so much when we are together. So it was thrilling for me when Celeste and I were able to photograph the ceremony on the day that they became husband and wife. Len is a very talented musician, a percussionist, and Cathy is the producer of several local cable shows, About Towne, Profiles, and Discover Irving. She is also a very talented storyteller and actor. They are definitely a couple who are comfortable in front of others, but during their wedding ceremony they only had eyes for each other. They have been together for many years and all of their friends and loved ones were anxious to be there to celebrate with them. They were married at the canals at Las Colinas in the city of Irving, where Cathy has worked for over 20 years, and it was a lovely June day in Texas.
Once everyone had gathered Cathy arrived in her stylish red dress… which is so very appropriate for Cathy as she is so regal and vibrant and filled with a passion for life… her two sons stepped up and walked her to her groom…
I get a little emotional every time I look at those photos of Cathy and her boys… she is so happy and they are so happy for thier mom… sigh…it melts the heart. And then the ceremony began… with loved ones gathered round… and the vows were exchanged…
It may be true that youth is wasted on the young… but I can assure you that passion isn’t… I photograph a lot of weddings and have rarely seen a more passionate kiss…
Everyone was basking in this couple’s happiness… and Len warmly thanked everyone for being there… I swear I don’t think I’ve ever seen a man happier… And when Len mentioned how long it had taken them to actually tie the knot, Cathy had some opinions to interject… just a few of course.
When your best friend is a wedding photographer, and you are wearing a killer new dress, you have to pose for endless romantic couple photos on your wedding day… But I don’t think Cathy minded. And Len… well few men are as stylish and dapper as Len. This man can walk into a thrift store and walk out looking like he has stepped out of Brooks Brothers. He is rocking the seersucker and bow tie for his summer nuptials. Some dear friends had brought kazoos to provide mood music for the photo shoot… so a snappy rendition of “here comes the bride” ensued…
Couple photos complete, the wedding documents were signed and the party commenced! There were hugs all around and a lot of smiles and laughter…
I love these people and these photos so much. Cathy and Len we wish you every joy and continued happiness… and of course lots of laughter! xoxo
ASHLEY AND TREVOR’S DREAMY BEACH WEDDING
Ashley and Trevor are one of those couples who are so easy around one another, so affectionate and sweet, so obviously in love… that just being around them makes you smile. It was such a joy for Celeste and I to travel to Cancun to photograph their wedding day at the lovely Fiesta Americana Condesa Resort. Both Ashley and Trevor’s families are such warm, kind, fun people and there was so much love all around that we all just rode the wave of happiness. The light and the colors of a beach wedding are so exquisite, so bright and fresh and vibrant. The colors Ashley chose and her lovely, lacey empire waist gown and foot jewelry were perfect. And as they always say… a picture… or in this case a whole bunch of pictures… of all this loveliness, are worth a thousand words.
Girls are not the only ones who primp before the ceremony… over in the guy’s room there was some serious tie tying going on… also, notice the cool cuff links the guys wore!
Ashley did a first look in her dress with her Dad… which is always so sweet…
And then it was time to go down to the beach… where Ashley and Trevor’s life as husband and wife would begin by the ocean…
This was truly one of the sweetest ceremonies I have ever witnessed… so genuine and full of love…
Along with the shots of the girls preparing for the day… my favorite shots from any wedding are the romantic shots of the couple… and these are truly some of my favorites of all time…
Once the vows had been said and the kiss had occurred, everyone was ready to celebrate. There was a gorgeous reception set up on a veranda overlooking the beach, with the most beautiful flowers and linens. Notice the adorable cake topper from Etsy that says “To the moon and back,” which was one of my favorite details… and the couple had provided colored wayfarer sunglasses for every guest. As it turned out, umbrella’s might have been in order. As nature often does, a summer rain came through and tried to dampen everyone’s spirits… but this group’s spirit couldn’t be dampened. Even though it was necessary to move the party indoors Ashley and Trevor rolled with it with such grace and good humor… and everyone had a wonderful evening.
One of the best parts of any wedding reception is the dancing… and this group certainly knows how to hit the dance floor!
What a perfect wedding day… the rain didn’t even put a dent in Ashley and Trevor’s joy and they enjoyed every moment of their day. What an honor to be there to capture it for them… we wish you and your families every joy!
Ceremony and Reception Venue: Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun Mexico / Wedding coordination: Timeless Elegance Weddings, with Kim Kenney / Florals and Decor: Timeless Fiori / Videographer: Brian Gaffner / Dresses: Stardust Bridal / Bride’s Shoes: Kate Spade / Jewelry: Nordstrom / Save the Dates: Paper Planet / Details: Etsy / Photography: Tamytha Cameron Photography
RACHEL AND BEN’S ROMANTIC JUNE WEDDING
Rachel and Ben tied the knot in a lovely June ceremony at Marie Gabrielle in downtown Dallas under a beautiful canopy of trees. Every detail was the epitome of style and down-to-earth prettiness… words aren’t really sufficient. Rachel was certainly one of the most beautiful brides I’ve ever seen and Ben made such a handsome groom. Surrounded by family and friends it was more than evident that as the adorable card on each chair said, “true love is a big deal.” This couple met at Texas Tech and it wasn’t long before Ben knew that Rachel was the one for him. They are so sweet and easy together and it’s a joy to watch, and if anyone near them might have lost hope in true love… odds are they will make you believe again. The group dressed for the big day at the Stoneleigh Hotel, a gorgeous 1923 Art Deco building which was the perfect backdrop for the photos of one of my favorite parts of the day. I have to say that I have shot quite a few wedding dresses, but this dress shot is my favorite one to date.
The girls definitely weren’t the only ones putting on their finest. Over in the guys’s space the proper way to tie a bow tie was proving to be a bit of a challenge. Notice the monogrammed bow ties that each groomsman is wearing… these are the kind of details that make a wedding so special. There is something very ceremonial about the putting on of the wedding dress… and something so nurturing about the way women come together to care for one another at these times…
The gray bridesmaid dresses that Rachel chose from BHLDN are so ethereal, and perfectly complement her Vera Wang dress that she had altered to her specifications.
I am always jazzed about shooting outdoor ceremonies, being an outdoor enthusiast myself, and this one did not disappoint. Details like the eucalyptus, fern and jasmine chandelier that hung above Rachel and Ben when they said their vows, the sprigs of lavender tied to the aisle chairs, and the soft guitar music playing in the background were so lovely and created the perfect serene environment for a wedding. There are few things prettier than crisp white chairs in a green space. All the stationary for the wedding set the tone for the day and the cards and fans on the chairs added just the right personal touch.
The stage was well and truly set for two people to join their lives together before witnesses…
After the exchange of vows and an amazing kiss, Mr. and Mrs. Taylor stole away to cool off before the group shots…
And then the time had come for food and conviviality held in Marie Gabrielle’s beautiful space… everyone just basked in the love that was overflowing, and I think it’s safe to say that a wonderful time was had by all.
And of course there was dancing… and more dancing. If you want to know the truth of someone’s heart, watch them when they are dancing.
As exits go, this one was spectacular… sparklers and smiles all around as Rachel and Ben headed off to Italy. Really… it couldn’t have been more perfect. Bella… absolutely bella. We wish you every joy!
Lighting: Astounding Sounds / Music: The Revolvers / Flowers & Centerpieces: Kate Foley Designs / “Guest book” painting: Custom, Simone (New Orleans) / Hair & Makeup: Fairy Godmother Bridal & Kate Rodriguez of The Rodriguez Salon / Bridesmaid Dresses: BHLDN / Bridesmaid Earrings: Stella & Dot / Calligraphy (invitations & seating chart): Nicole Black of The Left Handed Calligrapher / Ceremony & Reception Venue: Marie Gabrielle / Wedding Dress: Vera Wang w/ custom alterations / Bride’s Earrings: Gurhan from Ylang23 / Bride’s Shoes: Givenchy / Cakes: Frosted Art / Programs, Sparkler Sleeves & Matchbooks: Sue Corral from Design Corral (online) / Small Business Cards w/ App info: DIY using Makr app / Groom & Groomsmen Tuxes: Culwell and Sons / Groom & Groomsmen Custom Bow Ties: Great Knots (online @greatknots.com) / Bride & Bridesmaids Robes: Gap Body / Hotel: The Stoneleigh / Wedding Planner: Amanda Connolly from After Yes / Photography: Tamytha Cameron Photography
ASHLEY’S ROMANTIC BRIDALS AT THE CRESCENT HOTEL
Celeste and I have known Ashley for many years, as Celeste and Ashley were in the same class in school. She and her lovely mom Julie are friends and so it was a special honor to be asked to be Ashley and Trevor’s wedding photographers, to accompany them to their destination wedding in CanCun. We just returned from their absolutely gorgeous wedding and as beautiful as the scenery was I have to say that the people were even more beautiful. These images are from her bridal session, shot some time ago at the Crescent Hotel here in Dallas. Ashley has such a sweet spirit about her and it shows through these images. She is just as gorgeous on the inside as she is on the outside! The classic elegance of the Crescent made the perfect backdrop for Ashley and her romantic Grecian inspired gown.
I think almost every girl has a twirling instinct… especially in a romantic gown… and Ashley is no exception!
We had such a good time on this shoot and Ashley is so wonderful to photograph and so willing to be fully present in the midst of the process… something tells me that being a bride agrees with her.
The wonderful thing about the Crescent is all the nooks, hallways and lovely outdoor groomed garden spots that perfectly compliment the spirit of bride… and Ashley really shone in this environment…
There are few things in life lovelier than a woman in love… than a bride… and I am quite certain that Trevor is going to cherish these images of Ashley for years to come. He is one lucky man.
BECCA AND GREG’S LOVELY FEBRUARY WEDDING
Becca and Greg are one of those couples who have eyes only for each other. They are so sweet and romantic together that it almost feels like you are intruding when you are photographing them at close range. I had never met Greg before I shot their engagements, but when I observed how this quiet young man treated Becca and the way he looked at her, I formed a great respect for him very quickly. They had their February wedding at the chapel at Prestonwood Baptist Church, which was very appropriate as they both went to Prestonwood Christian Academy and met and dated there for many years. Their lovely and love filled reception was held at Gleneagles Country club.
We always love photographing the girls getting ready for the day… there is something about the way women tend one another that is just so beautiful… the way Becca’s bridesmaids, her sister, future sister-in-laws, and friends help her dress is the perfect picture of female friendship. Women are so nurturing… and I love capturing it with my camera. Also… we must pay homage to Becca’s beautiful shoes!
Not every couple chooses to do a first look, but Becca and Greg did. Becca told us that she wouldn’t be easy about her day until she had seen Greg, and that once she did, her day would be made. This was such a beautiful and private moment that it almost seemed a sacrilege to be there…
The Ceremony was beautiful and meaningful and one charming detail is that right as Becca moved up the stairs to join Greg she lost her shoe… and it pretty much stayed off until the end of the ceremony when Greg helped her back into it and down the stairs and back down the aisle. 🙂
After the I Do’s and the kiss everyone is pretty aflutter with excitement… and after hearty congratulations all around, it’s time for some group photos.
And now on to the reception… the softly candlelit room, the grand entrance by the couple, the first dance of the couple and the bride dancing with her father… and the long held tradition of the cake cutting. Notice that in addition to the beautiful bride’s cake, the groom’s cake honors Becca and Greg’s Alma Mater, Baylor University and the Baylor Bears.
Those of you familiar with our work know we love photographing the dancing at the reception… I mean who doesn’t love a good party?! It has to be said also that Greg’s mom is a pretty great dancer as the first two photos in this set attest… and the garter removal and toss had everyone laughing! Best of all the night ended with a rousing rendition of Don’t Stop Believin’ with everyone singing along!
Becca and Greg exited the reception in a cloud of bubbles and well wishes. It was an honor and a joy to capture your special day you two! Anniversary Shoot next February we hope!
Photography: Tamytha Cameron Photography | Flowers: A Man and a Woman Floral Design | Cake: Delicious Cakes | Ceremony Venue: Prestonwood Baptist Church Faith Chapel | Reception Venue: Gleneagles Country Club | DJ: Cameron Fox with iEntertainment | Makeup: Lauren Katz | Hair: Dry Bar Plano