journal

As you may (or may not) know, I have officially launched my photography workshop called The Real Talk Workshop. We get it Kir… you’re hosting a workshop. So why then am I writing a blog post about it? Well, I don’t really think a landing page on my site is doing this event justice. I want to really dive in and explain the passion behind this project. 

March 23, 2018

My Workshop Why | Real Talk Workshop Details | DC Photography Workshop

Ah yes, the age-old question: Do I need a wedding planner? The answer is an overwhelming YES. What most brides don’t realize is that, no matter what, you will have a wedding planner. If you don’t hire a professional, this job will either fall to you, your photographer, your mother, or a team of drunken bridesmaids. This is not to say that any of these people can do this job or are in the least bit qualified for it… but one way or another, your wedding will go on. Whether you want it to run smoothly without stress is up to you. 

February 12, 2018

Should I Hire a Wedding Planner? | DC Wedding Planning | Couples’ Education

Amanda and Heikki knew exactly where they wanted engagement photos: right at the spot where he proposed. Heikki got down on one knee right at the Lincoln memorial and asked Amanda to spend forever with him. It only seemed right to have a snowy session on the mall! 

February 7, 2018

Lincoln Memorial Engagement | Snowy Washington DC Engagement | Amanda and Heikki

When I first Skyped with Ashley & Michael, the first thing I heard was their pupper in the background! You know I am immediately going to love a couple that loves animals as much as I do! Ashley and Michael will be tying the knot in October on a plot of stunning Virginia family land.

February 5, 2018

Bear’s Den Engagement | Northern Virginia Wedding Photographer | Ashley and Michael

When Rebecca showed up wearing this Lulus sequin gold dress I nearly had a heart attack. How stunning does she look!? Rebecca and Christian were in town on a little vacation up from South Carolina. She is a wedding photographer herself, and as such, this couple treats themselves to anniversary photos once a year! I was honored to be able to capture this session for them!

January 29, 2018

Washington DC Wedding | Jefferson Memorial Anniversary Photos | Rebecca and Christian

When Kathy sent me inspiration photos for this shoot, I happily referred her to studio photographers in the area. Kathy would not take “I don’t shoot studio” for an answer and oh, man am I so happy she didn’t! I LOVE trying new forms of photography and am thrilled that she put her trust in me to nail this studio session. 

January 27, 2018

Washington DC Studio Engagement Session | DC Engagement Photos | Kathy and Paul

2017 will forever be the year I remember building my ideal business. I shot 19 weddings, 5 styled shoots, took on 3 second shooting gigs, 52 engagements, 3 proposals and 12 lifestyle shoots. I rebranded, hired an associate and (fun fact) still was tutoring full time.

January 7, 2018

Destination Wedding Photographer | 2017 A Year in Review | Personal Post

It’s our second Christmas as husband and wife and good news… we’re still married! This year has been filled with travels, family time and good old fashion couch time.

December 24, 2017

Washington DC Wedding Photographer | Merry Christmas From the Tubens

Courtney and Eddie are two people who just deserve to be married. Because of Eddie’s commitment to our country, these two have put miles on their relationship. They have Skyped and bought expensive plane tickets for years all over the states including Florida, DC and now finally are settled in their new home in North Carolina. 

December 23, 2017

United States Naval Academy Wedding | USNA Wedding | Annapolis Wedding Photographer | Courtney and Eddie

I had the most wonderful morning in the city with Melissa and Calvin. After tons of location chatting, we decided to take a few snaps at the Capitol & Union Station! These two have lived all over so I loved that they chose locations that represented their new home together in DC!

December 20, 2017

Union Station Engagement | DC Wedding Photographer | Melissa and Calvin