KatieLeonard.com

We’re off to NYC!!! Where should we go???

Katie — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 05:37:22 +0000

We’re staying in Brooklyn most of the time with John’s brother. He’s pretty cool, here are his two websites: Left as Rain–Music and Remember Paper–graphic arts.

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I live out of a Car.

Katie — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:20:40 +0000

My traveling schedule is out of control lately. Here’s a rundown of where I was and where I’ll be:

February 11th: Drive to Lake Oconee, GA

Feb 12th: Wedding in ATL (in the SNOW)

Feb 14th: Drive to Saint Simons Island, GA to meet John for V-Day

Feb 15th: Junkyard Pinups in JAX

Feb 14th-19th: Saint Simons Island

Feb 19th: Drive back to Gainesville, FL

Feb 20th: Drive to JAX to look for houses. Then E-Session in St. Augustine.

Feb 22nd: Head down to Tampa, FL for John to take the bar.

Feb 22nd-24th Tampa

Feb 25th: Drive to JAX to 1)Show John favorite houses, pick one, sign Lease. 2) Fly out of JAX to NYC.

Feb 25th-March 4th: NYC and DC

March 5th-7th: MOVE to JAX!!! (Any Help will be Greatly Appreciated!!!)

March 8th: John starts work.

March 10th-14th: Saint Simons Island w/the Girls.

March 13th: Gate River Run 15k in JAX

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Michelle+Matt Sneak Peek

Katie — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 16:10:58 +0000

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Junkyard Pinups

Katie — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 16:07:23 +0000

Today Shannon and I headed to a junkyard with other photographers, models, and hair and makeup people to do a fun junkyard pinup shoot. The weather wasn’t cooperating too much, but we had a ton of fun! I’ll post a few more soon or go to my Facebook Page.

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Q&A Sunday

Katie — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 04:55:24 +0000

I bought the book Fast Track Photographer by Dane Sanders for myself for Christmas. I know, you’re not supposed to buy yourself anything for Christmas. It’s just so hard to shop that much and not get anything for yourself. In the book, Dane Sanders talks about the “Signature Brand Photographer” and offers a few questions about branding my uniqueness. I wanted to answer these questions on my blog to not only share with my current and future clients, but also so you could hold me accountable to being the best photographer I can be.

What is the strongest/most colorful aspect of your personality? I’m very laid back. I’m not going to get stressed out if things are running behind, it snows on your wedding day, or your new brother in law shows up in a cutoff Hooter shirt. No wedding goes exactly as planned, and I love the uniqueness of each one. Yesterday, at the wedding I was shooting it SNOWED–in Georgia!!! Basically my world was turned upside down. The bridesmaids were an hour late, the coordinator was stuck in traffic, and most importantly: I almost always shoot the formals outside–in natural light. So much went wrong with this wedding–but it was absolutely spectacular! I mean, who has wedding pictures in the snow in Georgia?!?! Basically what I’m saying is: ”C’est la vie.” We’re going to have a great time and you’ll have amazing images!

What style of clothing do you look best and feel best in? LOL, this is a funny one. I either look like I’m heading for the gym in full Nike attire or I’m dolled up in a Bebe Dress. There really isn’t much in-between for me. For weddings I typically wear a modest dress and my hair pulled back. I will go barefoot if needed (to move quietly around the church during the ceremony or if I’m jumping in the lake to get the perfect shot.)

What kind of music do you love? Is it an important part of your identity? I have weird taste in music. I love country, Pop (R&B mixed with Rap), and my favorite artist right now is Patty Griffin. Actually I fell in love with one of her lyrics last week: “I don’t necessarily buy any ‘key to the future’ or ‘happiness’, but I need a little place in the sun sometimes or I think I will die.” The song is Moses, by Patty Griffin. It’s spectacularly sad, but deeply heartfelt lyrics.

What style of art do you prefer? I obviously love photography, I’m dying to learn pottery, I paint sometimes… I guess I don’t prefer any specific style or type. It’s kind of like music–everything has its place.

What defines a celebration for you? P-A-R-T-Y!!! Love is a celebration. I love dancing, singing, and sharing the special moments with those you are close to.

What food and beverages do you like and identify with? WOW, where do I start? I do love food. I guess I can start with what I do not like: olives, steak, cantaloupe. Everything else is fair game. I LOVE sushi, pizza, sweet tea, brownies, cookies, cheese, shrimp and grits. In a perfect world (where I didn’t kill every plant I own) I’d grow my own vegetables. I’ve tried gardens the past two years and only the jalapenos were edible. But don’t worry, I’ve already started my tomato seeds for this year… I’m not a quitter!

Do I have a philosophical outlook that I feel strongly about and want to share with the world? I’m not really sure this counts, but I believe strongly in spaying and neutering your pets. I adore my dogs (even though they are quite bad). I pick up dogs off the street and re-home them. I tear up when I look on craigslist at all the dogs that need new homes. There are so many free or cheap spay/neuter programs out there. PLEASE save lives!!! I will pay for your dog to get spayed or neutered if you can’t. I donate part of my proceeds from Badogoodog to Operation PitNip. I especially believe in spaying and neutering pit-bulls. I do love the breed, however there are many people that do not need to own this type of dog.

What are my thought of marriage? Marriage is different for everyone and I accept that. For me it is a partnership that is working toward a mutual goal. John and I want the best for each other personally and professionally. This takes a lot of communication, work, and trust. There should also be LUST

What kind of _______ gels best with your personality?

Car: My last few cars have been hondas and I like them. I’m a low key, dependable, good gas mileage, dog toting kind of car girl. Whatever that is.

Restaurant: One with locally grown, organic food. And with great martinis! There is one right outside of DC that is amazing.

Magazine: I loved “Gourmet”, “Dressage Today”, “Self”, and Maxim is great inspiration for TeaseME.

Musical Instrument: I played the clarinet in Middle School, but I don’t identify with it. My musical instrument of choice is my iPhone.

Musician: Right now I love Patty Griffin and Zac Brown Band (He’s from GA too!) In the past, I loved Jewel.

Writer: My 2 favorite authors (with my favorite book by each one): Greg Isles (True Evil) and Paulo Coelho (By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept). I also love Jane Eyre.

What segments of society do you feel most comfortable with? Is that the group I wish to market myself to? What level of education are you comfortable dealing with in others? I’m the first person in my family to go to college (extended family included) and I’m married to a guy who graduated magna cum-laude in Law School. Education in the end is just a (very expensive) piece of paper. I feel most comfortable around people that laugh, support me, and encourage others.

How would I describe my ideal client? My ideal client is fun and easy going. I LOVE clients who are willing to play in the snow/water, be silly, and try new things. I’d love to spend a day photographing a couple doing what they love to do.

What sorts of activities is that person involved in? Well, I love horses, dogs, running, boating, hiking…. and anyone who does these things is cool with me. However, I love when clients are totally different from me and I get to see what their world is like. This past weekend the groom and his groomsmen are all cage-fighters. How badass is that?

Which celebrity’s public image are you most attracted to? Why? This is a hard one. Uuuuummmmm……. I like pretty people with awesome bodies. There really isn’t anyone that stands out to me on more than their looks. I’ve never been one to have a role model, so I’m not sure this applies. I’m more of a pick and choose parts I like and make it my own. I think “public image” is basically there just to sell a person. I like real people. I can tell you who is my favorite on the Bachelor. :)

What indefinable quality do you possess that makes you bigger than the sum of your parts? I think this is one for my mom to answer. I don’t think there is any one part of me that makes me super special.

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Long Ride Home

Katie — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 07:49:53 +0000

“Long Ride Home” is actually one of my favorite songs by Patty Griffin–and today, it fits my day.

8 Hours in Jacksonville driving around in the rain looking for a place to live. My FAVORITE house on the MLS turned out to be absolutely HORRIBLE. I guess that’s good bc it was 50k higher than John’s price range (it fit perfectly in mine). I did find a stunning high rise on the water and a few houses in San Marco so now we have at least 3 choices. So, at least it wasn’t a waste of a day considering due to the rain, our TeaseME PhotoShoot was canceled. Finally I arrived home at 9pm, just in time to run 5 miles with Huan and Christina (and the “herd”–Tango, Cash, Nala, and Keeli). Yes, if you see someone being pulled down the street by 220lbs of puppy power–it’s probably us. Give us a little shout out! :0) We need all the encouragement we can get training for the 15k.

After an hour of running, time to eat, then edit… until now (2:46am). It’s totally a rainy, blah, too much time in the car song. GOOD NIGHT!

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Apple loves Carrots

Katie — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 05:50:49 +0000

Today I headed to the barn to photograph a few of Mary Beth’s babies and around the farm for her new website: www.evrso.com Here are a few I snapped:

Mary Beth feeding her favorite TB Broodmare on the Farm.

They just look like TROUBLE! These three weanlings are pretty new to the farm.

This one is named Katie! The other 2 are Stryphen and Sprite.

Apple and Rococo

Rimar

Mary Beth and Rimar

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5k was a Success!!!

Katie — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 02:03:55 +0000

YEAH!!!! We did it!!! Surprisingly, I finished 3rd in my age group, and Huan finished 1st. :) My time was 31:22

My Goals for Today:

I was REALLY hoping to make it in 30 minutes or less

To beat all the ladies over 65

And to not stop running.

One of 3 isn’t that bad.

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Thanks Body, I Thought We Were Working Together on This :(

Katie — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 03:50:04 +0000

Today I work up weighing more than I ever have–in my life. I’m not naming numbers here, but more than some of my friends ever did when they were 9 months pregnant. Seriously.

Like everyone else, I decided after the holidays, something needed to change. I wanted to be back to my former “glory days”. Back to the days were ALL of my pants fit, not just the super strecthy ones.

Well today is not the day. And tomorrow is the 5k. Bummer. :(

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TeaseME Photography is LIVE!!!!

Katie — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 18:44:21 +0000

Shannon and I have been so excited about our new adventure together–www.TeaseMEphotography.com Check it out!

www.Katie-T.com and www.ShannonWphotography.com

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Big News Coming Soon!

Katie — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 22:26:19 +0000

Shannon Whitaker and I are teaming up to bring you something new… Here’s a sneak peek:

Any Guesses?

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Silly Girls…

Katie — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 04:55:25 +0000

Today Shannon and I headed to the Gainesville Bridal Expo to hang out. I guess it sounds a little weird to “hang out” at a bridal expo, but we’re wedding photographers. Those are our people! We “met” a few photographers we know on facebook, chatted with a few caters and planners, and had a little fun in the photobooth:

PS. Shannon and I have big news! Stay tuned for more info!

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Rainy Saturday–What to Do?

Katie — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 01:06:15 +0000

Today is a boring rainy Saturday. John’s taking a practice bar exam all day and the dogs are about to go stir crazy. I ordered a new template for our new adventure! Keep a watch out for super exciting news from Katie-T Photography and Shannon Whitaker Photography. (Oh, I am switching my business name over to Katie-T Photography–YEAH!) Other than that, I’m learning how to cook a Vietnamese dish called Pho. My super nice neighbor Huan is helping me out. Right now I have cow bones boiling on my stove. I’m not really sure how I feel about that seeing how I hate bones–and these are huge, but Huan assures me this is the only way to prepare Pho properly. Oh yeah, almost forgot, we can actually eat it tomorrow night! It’s 2 days of cooking for a noodle soup.

I did find some pretty funny candy (YanYan–pictured below) at the asian market that teaches english. Examples: “Horse–Giddy Up” ”Beetle–Love It” “Squirrel–Best Friend” Yeah, these little snacks will probably be my Valentine’s presents this year. :)

Huan helping me shop for Pho ingredients:

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Pics from my iPhone

Katie — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 07:19:59 +0000

I figured you could learn a lot about a person by seeing the pictures they took with their iPhone. Here are mine:

Possible dress for the Christmas Dinner: (Not the winner.)

Actual dress for Christmas dinner: (Me and John)

This is the amazing deal on wicker at Home Depot: (I always snap pics to see if John likes it.)

My artichokes: YUM!!!

Clams:

Yes, I’m still amazed at a tiny fluff of snow on the ground. (In GA)

Teens in FL? :(

Tango riding back to FL in his “throne”. This is the wicker I ended up with, handed down from my parents. Our house is looking quite snazzy!

Apple wearing the surcingle for the first time. (Non-Horse people, the surcingle is the belt like contraption holding the purple saddle pad on her. As far as training goes, it was quite a milestone.)

Trying to clean out the closet… :( Now it’s done! And I’m ready to take pics to put our house on the market–and drop off a ton of stuff at Goodwill.

Guess. :) I thought it was pretty.

Dinner at Chop Stix

Our new breakfast nook table! :) We still need something to go on the wall.

The shoe I’m considering buying to train for my 5k’s.

Tailgating

Tango when he looked like Quazimoto.

Christina and I getting ready for the Falcons vs Bears game.

More tailgating–this time with the dogs.

Tango is quite the cuddler–John snapped this one while we were in Charleston over Christmas.

So, that’s it. Nothing much exciting going on here. :)

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Bye Bye Nene

Katie — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 05:58:56 +0000

A great woman passed away a few days ago. She’s the grandmother of one of my best friends. I don’t want to make this a sad post, she lived and loved a very full life.

Nene was married 63 years and her words of wisdom to me at my bridal shower was “Keep your mouth shut and always smile.” :) I’m not so sure that I listened very well, but I did learn quite a few things from Nene over the years. The main thing I saw in her every time I was around her is the “Wife of Noble Character” that Proverbs 31 speaks about. Those verses mean so much to me as a wife and woman.

This is the infamous bridal shower w/Nene, Carol, and JoAnne Sanders.

Proverbs 31

¹⁰ A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.

¹¹ Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.

¹² She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.

¹³ She selects wool and flax
and works with eager hands.

¹⁴ She is like the merchant ships,
bringing her food from afar.

¹⁵ She gets up while it is still dark;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her servant girls.

¹⁶ She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.

¹⁷ She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.

¹⁸ She sees that her trading is profitable,
and her lamp does not go out at night.

¹⁹ In her hand she holds the distaff
and grasps the spindle with her fingers.

²⁰ She opens her arms to the poor
and extends her hands to the needy.

²¹ When it snows, she has no fear for her household;
for all of them are clothed in scarlet.

²² She makes coverings for her bed;
she is clothed in fine linen and purple.

²³ Her husband is respected at the city gate,
where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.

²⁴ She makes linen garments and sells them,
and supplies the merchants with sashes.

²⁵ She is clothed with strength and dignity;
she can laugh at the days to come.

²⁶ She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

²⁷ She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.

²⁸ Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:

²⁹ “Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all.”

³⁰ Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.

³¹ Give her the reward she has earned,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

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The First Dance and other Wedding Day Tunes

Katie — Sat, 09 Jan 2010 04:47:00 +0000

I love the first dance. It’s the moment that the couple can express their musical preferences, knowledge, humor… For our wedding, we danced to Peter Gabriel’s “Book of Love”

Lyrics:

The book of love is long and boring
No one can lift the damn thing
It’s full of charts and facts and figures and instructions for dancing
But I
I love it when you read to me
And you
You can read me anything
The book of love has music in it
In fact that’s where music comes from
Some of it is just transcendental
Some of it is just really dumb
But I
I love it when you sing to me
And you
You can sing me anything
The book of love is long and boring
And written very long ago
It’s full of flowers and heart-shaped boxes
And things we’re all too young to know
But I
I love it when you give me things
And you
You ought to give me wedding rings
And I
I love it when you give me things
And you
You ought to give me wedding rings
And I
I love it when you give me things
And you
You ought to give me wedding rings
You ought to give me wedding rings

I absolutely love the song, however it didn’t pack the punch that some other songs would have. The song is very slow, and while being quite witty, didn’t translate well to 125 people melting in my in-laws back yard. I give our first dance song a big fat thumbs down. Now, my friend Melissa danced to “At Last” and that was THE song for her wedding. Her band preformed it beautifully, she looked beautiful, it was a beautiful thing to watch and be a part of. Isn’t that what we all want for our wedding song?

I found our song later in the evening. Our band (an awesome bluegrass band from Saint Simons Island), played a song they had learned just for our special day: “Swept Away” by the Avett Brothers. THAT was our wedding song! It was later in the evening, it wasn’t so stinking hot, and the only people left celebrating with us were our closets friends. It was amazing.

If I had it to do all over again… #1 I would not plan a wedding in June. #2 I’d pick a song that had drama, that we’d have fun with, and that set the tune for the rest of the wedding.

My list of favorite wedding songs are:

At Last–Etta James

What A Wonderful World–Louis Armstrong

My Best Friend–Tim McGraw

Gotta Have You–The Weepies

Look Heart, No Hands or Forever and Ever, Amen–Randy Travis

And for a few funny ones:

Lay you Down–Conway Twitty

Beast of Burden–Rolling Stones

Anyone Else but You–Juno Soundtrack

What will your First Dance song be?

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Successful Cooking for Guests!

Katie — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 02:06:40 +0000

Last night we cheated–we ate the $3.99 buffet at Hungry Howies. I had been in the car for over 5 hours and couldn’t bring myself to cook. To redeem myself, I did cook for the in-laws in Charleston the night before and I cooked tonight for Asghar (pictured below–middle, one of John’s classmates also studying for the bar). This pic was taken this summer at one of the baseball games in Jacksonville–we had box seats! He does look a little skeptical in this photo, don’t worry, he was quite pleased with my cooking!

Today’s recipe was: Red & Green Pork Chops I did swap out the green beans for asparagus bc John isn’t a fan of green beans. I roasted the asparagus for 15 mins and made an asparagus sauce–2 Tbsp Melted Butter, 1 Tbsp Balsamic Vinegar, and 1 Tbsp Soy Sauce. (It really is the BEST asparagus sauce I’ve EVER had.) I cheated a little bc I stayed out table shopping too long and bought the starch from Fresh Market. The dish was spectacular!

For the in-laws I made: Pork Tenderloins with Pears and Shallots It was also a success.

PS. My artichokes are looking pretty stinking sad and 3 of my Lemons are already MOLDY!!!

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Crazy Dog Lady Here Again

Katie — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 19:07:49 +0000

Here comes “The Herd” again! This time it’s Tango & Cash with their “cousins” Nessie and Wimbley. More on Facebook.

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1st Day of the New Years Resolutions

Katie — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 05:25:17 +0000

I did make it to the grocery store–you know the place I haven’t seen in 2 months. I bought $85 worth of delicious ingredients to make healthy yet nutritious meals for my bar-studying husband. So far my meals this week consist of pretty normal ingredients, a WHOLE chicken and 2 artichokes. I have NEVER cooked a whole chicken, but tonight I dismembered it, skinned it, and surprisingly I ate it. I normally don’t eat meat off the bone, but seeing at how a whole chicken was only $3.01 tonight, I made an exception.

Tonight’s recipe was Chicken Masala. The “putting my kitchen shears to work” dismembering the poor little chicken was quite impressive. I felt a little odd since my last time I had been around any meat still attached to the bone was when we were dissecting cats in A&P2. I was pretty sure that by the time dinner was served, I wouldn’t be hungry bc this is all I can think about:

This is two of my lab partners for A&P II Matt Ellis and Cary Hillier.

Well I did end up finishing the dish, I started prep work at 5pm and finally ate at 830pm. It wasn’t that good.

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New Years Resolutions

Katie — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 01:47:28 +0000

So today I was thinking… what will be my new year’s resolutions? First, like a ton of other women, I want to lose weight.

As I was thinking further, I realized that owning my own business I needed to think about what others would choose to be my New Years Resolution.

Along with losing weight:

I’d like to run a few more 5k’s–and this time run the whole time. I ran my first on Thanksgiving and did exceptionally well in my mind. I ran most of the first mile, half of the second, and all of the third. Out of the 5,000+ people that ran that day, I’m sure I beat a few of them. I feel like I’d be in pretty good shape if I ran 3+miles 3x a week.

I want to cook more–well, really I don’t want to cook. I want to save $ and eat healthier. So, in order to save $$$ and lose the gut, I will be cooking fun and delicious stuff. For now my inspiration will come from Tastespotting, a blog that compiles all kind of cooking blogs. I just have to click on my favorites and I have recipes for the week.

For my business, I want to have much more to offer. I plan on opening “Badogoodog Photography” and “Tease Me Photography” I also plan on offering many more albums, wall hangings, metal murals, and photobooths. Samples will be available in the near future.

What others probably want my resolutions to be: Wake up earlier, answer my phone, and be more aware of time.

What are your new year’s resolutions? What do you think others would choose for yours to be?

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Today is the Day I Have Been Waiting For!!!

Katie — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 03:08:51 +0000

Today is the day my husband John finishes law school. It’s taken 3.5 years of dedication, long nights, and basically putting everything else in his life on hold to make it through. Going in to law school we were newly engaged, just moved to DC, and had very limited responsibilities. The first few weeks in DC we visited the Smithsonians, went to the Zoo, and traveled around the vineyards in our free time. Today we’ve been married for a year and a half, own a house, and have our 3 “kids”. Our free time now is spent going to the dog park, home improvement tasks, and going to the beach. It’s strange to see how much we’ve changed in so little time and at times it’s not easy to accept someone you are so close to changing so much. There are plenty of time I miss the old us, but I find the new us so much stronger, more mature, and well on our way to becoming adults.

I bet you are wondering if I planned anything special. I wanted to have a party, that was vetoed. A cake? No, we’re about to gorge ourselves for Christmas & NYE. I settled for a UF Alumni shirt. John picked it out himself.

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I Heart Faces–Pets Entry

Katie — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 21:26:56 +0000

Here is my I Heart Faces pet entry for this week. This is Cash. He’s a blue heeler, 1.5 years old, and LOVES water/mud/pools/ponds… He’s very much a boy. This is one several I took of him playing with a bulldog a few months ago. Other pet blog posts can be found here and here and here and here. Please leave comments!!! I love to hear from other pet lovers!

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Christmas Party!

Katie — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 01:14:21 +0000

I LOVE Christmas parties! I love the music, food, people, and the horrible Christmas sweaters. Unfourtunatley, there were no horrible sweaters at last nights party. But here is a pic of me and the hubby. (Sorry, end of the night and on the iPhone)

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Charlie Says…

Katie — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 03:28:33 +0000

Isn’t Charlie adorable? She was part of a family session I shot tonight in Gainesville, FL. I couldn’t help myself, I just HAD to post a pic of her Hopefully this weekend we can get around to taking a few Christmas pics of ourselves. Until then, this will have to do.

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LUCKY ME! :)

Katie — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 20:48:26 +0000

Crissy & Brian’s Beautiful Eclectic Wedding is featured on LuckyMe’s blog today! LuckyMe is a blog that has inspired me creatively since I first found it over a year ago and I am thrilled to be a part of her blog. Check it out, she has so many great ideas for real weddings, fashion, and sometimes cooking

Congrats Crissy for all your hard work putting together this fresh, creative, and most of all–fun wedding!

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Baby Emma Sneak Peek!

Katie — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 18:49:37 +0000

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Crazy Dog Lady

Katie — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:41:14 +0000

Last night my good friend Jenn came to watch Cash and I in our agility class. This morning I wake to see her new Facebook status is:

Back from Dog agility class and dinner with Katie : ) I wish Apple would hurry up and turn 2 before Katie turns into the crazy dog lady!! LOL

Too Late! Here is our “herd” on the beach last week.

PS. Only 2 are mine.

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I’m going to Cavalia in ATL!!!

Katie — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 05:18:06 +0000

I’m not really sure when it started, but horses have always been on my mind. I begged and begged my parents for a horse. We lived on 5 acres….horses live on 5 acres…. we should have a horse, right? I mean, why not? They eat grass. My dad wouldn’t have to mow… free fertilizer, it really seems like a win/win for everyone. I guess it was in a way–but not in a way that anyone was expecting.

It’s not like I woke up one day and decided I was going to ride horses, they have been part of me for as long as I can remember. I don’t know why. No one in my family rode, I didn’t have any friends with horses, I just knew I needed to be around them. Learning how to ride has given me more than I can express in written words: I blossomed into a confident, compassionate, tough, organized, calm, creative, reflective, thoughtful, crazy horse person.

Horses brought me more confidence than anything I have ever know. And for this, I will forever be grateful.

Thankfully, I have the amazing opportunity to see the show Cavalia in Atlanta around Christmas time with my husband and family. It is a tremendous gift to see these amazing athletes–horses and riders.

Here are a few pics of me from the EARLY years:

It is not enough for a man to know how to ride; he must know how to fall. ~Mexican Proverb

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My boys and Me!

Katie — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 02:17:53 +0000

We headed down to Ocala today for a test shoot in the pumpkin patch and I just had to have one made with my boys! This is Tango & Cash for those of you who don’t know me, Tango is the boxer and Cash is the Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler. More of my baby model Kaylee to come soon!

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Fall Mini Sessions This Weekend!

Katie — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 17:53:50 +0000

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Baby Connor visits Gainesville!

Katie — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 20:53:00 +0000

Here is one of Baby Connor. He’s 1 Month old, which is a little older than I normally like for newborns bc they are not as small, squishy, or sleep as well–however I think his came out awesome! His parent’s brought several props, blankest, and outfits to add to my every growing collection, so we had plenty to choose from. More on Facebook and my Proofing site.

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Crissy’s Eclectic Vintage Wedding

Katie — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 04:43:27 +0000

Here’s a sneak peek of Crissy & Brian’s Wedding, I LOVE the colors More to come soon.

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Jennifer & Brian Sneak Peek!!!

Katie — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 20:12:21 +0000

Jennifer and I grew up riding horses, going to school, and church together since we were about 14. Planning and bring “girly” was never Jens thing, she’d call me and talk about how she wasn’t really the wedding/girly/pink planner that most girls are expected to be. however, just take a look at the pics on Facebook or My Proofing Site, I think she did an amazing job! Congrats, Jen and Brian

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Lindsay & Josh Sneak Peek!!!

Katie — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 02:08:46 +0000

I just love it when brides want to look sexy on their wedding day!!! This is my little cousin Lindsay. Isn’t her hubby is a LUCKY man? My favorite comment on the pic so far is, “I love the dress!” I normally ask brides if they want to take a few risque photos before they put on the wedding dress. It’s not for everyone, but it sure makes the groom smile

Check out more on Facebook!

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Jessica & Ben’s Wedding on Lake Oconee

Katie — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 20:00:08 +0000

Jessica and Ben were married on a gorgeous day on Lake Oconee at Cuscowilla Golf Course. Cuscowilla is known for a more natural feel, native grasses, and extremely difficult golf course. There were so many places beautiful places, it was hard to choose where to go next. Cuscowilla did an amazing job with the catering, planning, and bartending–I would recommend that location for any weddings >300ppl (plus it’s close to my parent’s).

Check out a few of my favorites, more on Facebook!

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New Website BADOGOODOG

Katie — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 03:44:05 +0000

Hey Guys! Check out my new Pet Photography Website: Bad Dog Good Dog

http://badogoodog.showitsite.com/

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Kaylee Ann Turns 1!

Katie — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 20:23:00 +0000

Here is another one of my best friends daughters, Kaylee Ann. Her mom found the adorable tutu on Etsy.com I highly suggest checking it out! Photography is always more fun with props!

All images were taken in Winter Garden, FL

Baby Avery

Katie — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 19:14:00 +0000

Isn’t she a cutie?!?!? Avery is the daughter of one of my best friends in the whole world! She’s 10 days old in these pics and came out 10lbs!

Facebook Me!!!

Katie — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:03:00 +0000

As a photographer, I feel like I am continually updating blogs, Facebook, my website, and maybe one day Twitter! Facebook me and you will be updated every time I shoot a wedding, receive thanks from a recent bride, or just have an awesome day! Specials and Promotions will also be announced on Facebook. Feel free to drop a note, I love hearing from fans, clients, friends, and especially family!

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Victoria & Matt Sneak Peek

Katie — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 17:05:00 +0000

Here’s a few of my fav’s from Vickie & Matt’s wedding this past weekend at Haile Plantation in Gainesville, FL. They traveled all the way from Orange County, California to have their wedding in Matt’s home towm. For more from this wedding, check out my Facebook page!

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She’s Growing Up!

Katie — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 22:09:00 +0000

Apple is a little over a year old now and I ust had to share how awesome she’s looking! She’s been going through a very ackward stage (pre-teen) and she is finally coming out of it and looking amazing!

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Nichole & Todd E-Session

Katie — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 01:43:00 +0000

I LOVE shooting e-sessions at the beach, especially when the couple is willing to get a little salty and sandy! They had a blast with each other and kept me laughing. Can’t you see the love?

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Pamela & Kollyn

Katie — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 02:31:00 +0000

Pamela and Kollyn were married last mid-last week on a Tuesday. They were down here from Canada visiting Kollyn’s brother and decided to tie the knot. They had a very low key, intimate wedding at Kanapaha Gardens in Gainesville, Florida. Luckily, a rian shower had just passed through to cool everything off for us!

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DIY Flowers

Katie — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 01:54:00 +0000

Here’s a short little post showing off my bride’s talents and determination. Lately, I’ve been noticing brides gathering up the bridesmaids and putting them to work… arranging flowers!!! I was actually one of those brides myself. The process is actually quite simple. Depending on the time of the year, you might have an awesome selection of fresh flowers at Fresh Market or Whole Foods. (That is where I found my flowers.) If the selection is not great locally, you can always order online. The flowers below are all examples of DIY flowers. A few pointers: Gerber Daiseys, Roses, and Ranunculus are hearty choices for the south. Hydrangeas are not so great in the heat–make sure you have PLENTY of room in your refrigerator and order extras just in case. Floral tape can be found at any fabric store along with a pretty ribbon to wrap your arrangement in.

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Nichole & Todd Sneak Peek

Katie — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 22:17:00 +0000

Don’t you just LOVE the parasols?

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Nice Words: Nichole & Todd

Katie — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 22:10:00 +0000

I was so excited today to receive this message from Nichole & Todd:

Thank you so much for everything. Everyone raved about how friendly you were and how much fun it was to work with you.

We had a wonderful time and can’t wait to see the finished product. But more importantly we can’t wait for much needed sleep!!!

Thank you again for everything. You were fabulous to work with!

Have a great day,

Todd and Nichole

They were married this past weekend in Charleston, SC at The Magnolia Plantation. It was BEAUTIFUL! Pics to come soon!

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Who ACTUALLY uses the Treadmill…

Katie — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 04:27:00 +0000

So for my B-Day I asked my parents if I could have their treadmill. My fist response was NO, you’ll NEVER fit it in your car (Honda CRV). Seeing as how we had just moved out of the JAX apartment right before heading to GA for the weekend (with the 2 dogs), it was probably a reasonable thought. I however consider myself quite crafty and wasn’t ready to give up just yet. Basically I pulled everythign out of my car, drove the golf cart to the neighbor’s house and picked up the only person in the neighborhood more capable of moving a 700lbs treadmill than my mom and me. (Middle of the day, not many people were around). So my mom, the neighbor (Thanks Kenny!), and I struggled and DID manage to stuff it in my car. I made Tango a doggie bed on the top and Cash had to ride on the front seat all the way back to FL.

Finally we arrive at home to The Hubby saying it will not fit in out house. Well it did, right next to his stationary bike in the living room.

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Baby Liam 3 Months

Katie — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 22:46:00 +0000

Here is Baby Liam @ 3 Months. He is officially my 2nd baby model and son of a friend and co-worker of my hubby’s. Liz (mommy) is so gracious about letting me photograph her adorable baby boy and keeping me informed about what is happening around town.

Don’t you just love the Gator colors?

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Baby Jonathon

Katie — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 21:56:00 +0000

Here is little tiny Baby Jonathon. He’s just 5 days old and just adorable!!! He’s my 3rd baby model and I couldn’t be more excited about how him images came out. My good friend Shannon is a local photographer and she is teaching me all I need to know about babies and photographing them If you know of any babies or soon-to-be-mothers, send them my way, I’m offering drastiocally reduced prices so I can build my portfolio.

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Happy B-Day HBB!!!

Katie — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 03:17:00 +0000

Happy B-Day HBB, aka. John Thomas (my hubby). Here are a few pics that are really quite old, but good.

I thought I would dedicate a blog post to him and why he is so wonderful:

1. He’s really cute.
2. He’s talented. He played #1 for his tennis team in College–Swarthmore.
3. He is SUPER smart. He’s in the top ten out of over 400 of his law school class.
4. He saves bugs. Yes, he saves bigs. When we have a bug in our house, he traps it and releases it. Even the gross bugs.
5. He loves to travel.
6. He loves animals (well at lest dogs-Apple is growing on him).

Here are a few pics of us from our first few years of dating:

Here we are for the Phish concert in ATL:

Our last ATL Braves game b4 we moved to DC.
Sailing in Saint Simons Island, GA.
LOL
Concert in Macon, GA
In ATL, GA.
In Rome, GA.
At Great Falls, MD
Our Engagement Party–w/ John’s Parents
John with Otto and Georgia, our landlord’s dogs when we lived in DC. Apparently they were earless at that point.
At a smithsonian in DC. John had just bought me my “Tourist” camera. I carry it everywhere

JT playing guitar hero! He was a star!!!

Me cleaning off John’s car after a snow storm in DC.
John cleaning off Snowball (The Accord–My last car) after a snowfall.

Us with Beck
Prob one of the first pics of us–from FOREVER (aka. 2004) ago.

How Cute!!!

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Lorra & Kyle’s Wedding

Katie — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 04:22:00 +0000

Lorra & Kyle were married on Lake Oconee at Reynold’s Plantation. The day was beautiful, the bride was beautiful, the food was amazing (thanks Hallie Janes), and the band was probably the best I’ve ever seen.

Here are a few of my favorites:

(Lorra and Kyle decided to see each other before the ceremony, so we finished all but 15 mins of family pics before most people arrived. This allowed everyone to go and enjoy themselves as soon as the ceremony finished.)

Isn’t she such a beautiful bride:

I love the emotion in the next two:

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I’ve Determined I have a Twin.

Katie — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 03:52:00 +0000

I’ve Determined I have a Twin.

She must be a fit model for BEBE because EVERYTHING

I tried on today fit amazingly and I loved each beautiful piece.

So just in case anyone is wondering what to get me for

my B-Day (August 15th), I included two of the dresses here:

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Sunday at the Dog Park

Katie — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 23:17:00 +0000

The Hubby had to work on Sunday (boo!!!), so the boys and I headed to our favorite location–the dog park!

Here’s my man:

Tango doing his EVIL face:

Tango looking like the cuddle bug he really is:

Cash leading the pack:

Tango in the lake cooling off:

Cash pretending he’s an Alligator/Shark:

What a team:

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Happy B-Day Apple!!!

Katie — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 19:57:00 +0000

So with the lack of sufficient Internet service, I am a day late posing Apple’s B-Day. Yesterday she turned 1. Here are a few of my favorites from her 1st year:

This one was taken just a few weeks ago.

Here is a shot with my “Tourist Camera” today at 1 year, 1 day:

(She grew about 2-4 inches in a few weeks–and I had to run from her in the pasture bc she wanted scratches and kisses–she’s not a good model)

She is about 5 days old here. She was named Apple because of her “Apple Butt”. She was a better model then, she liked to kick.

Here she is about 3 weeks old and learning how to halter and lead for the first time.

Here is Apple at 3 months:

She loves her ear scratches, well, all scratches

Here is her big sister Pip picking on her, and her not budging. She’s a tough one.

Now starts the Uglies. 7 months old and it was raining and cold in GA.

She looks a little like Alf.

Apple finally makes it to FL at 9 months. Here she is still pretty fuzzy, but loving the scratches.

This is the first time John met her:

(He likes to bribe with grain.)

Saying BYE!

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Megan & Chris

Katie — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 21:34:00 +0000

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Baby Liam

Katie — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 21:25:00 +0000

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Christina & Alex E-Session

Katie — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 21:24:00 +0000

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Tango!!!

Katie — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 21:19:00 +0000

Hello all! Here is the newest addition to out family: “Tango DiMango”

He was give to me and John after a friend decided Cash needed a bother. Tango loves to play, chew, sniff, bark… basically all things puppy. He eats tomatoes and thought this past weekend (the 4th) was heaven with all of the treats and dropped food he managed to ingest. Cash seems to like him, until he had to share the crate with him.

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Sad Sad Stuff

Katie — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 06:19:00 +0000

“To call him a dog hardly seems to do him justice, though in as much as he had four legs, a tail, and barked, I admit he was, to all outward appearances. But to those who knew him well, he was a perfect gentleman.”

Hermione Gingold

So, if you know me at all–I’m an animal person. I love Cash more than anything, Apple is a close second. I totally fell in love with Beck and when she had to be put down at 10 weeks old i was absolutely devastated. I remember not eating, sleeping, and I still miss her. Loosing a pet is loosing a family member. My parents live on Lake Oconee, close to I-20. DJ was chasing some crazy wildlife that lives out there and made his way to the interstate.

Saying that this dog will be missed is an understatement. He was known and loved by almost everyone in the neighborhood. He was part of the family and I know we will all be in morning for quite a while.

I came up with the pics I had of him. If you would like to contribute, please e-mail me.

Boxers are a special breed and have an amazing joy to spread around.

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Ashley & Brendon E-Session

Katie — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 05:48:00 +0000

I can’t believe I forgot to add Ashley & Brendon’s E-Session to my blog!!!

Well here you go: I drove down to Orlando the week before their wedding in GA. This was the first time I had ever met either of them and I was quite surprised to find out they are both international swimmers. Ashley and I talked about her mom riding horses a little bit, but I had no clue I’d know her so well (look at the wedding entry). We played around their beautiful neighborhood for a few hours then headed to Houston’s where Brendon proposed to Ashley It was the most romantic location (and awesome food!).

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Happy 1 Year Anniversary!!!

Katie — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 02:57:00 +0000

John and I were married 06.07.08 in Gainesville FL. This past weekend we were celebrating our 1 year anniversary and while driving around downtown Jacksonville, we ran into this beautiful mural. I set up the tripod and a light and snapped a few pics before the sun went down completely. I love the feeling of the mural–it’s so colorful and romantic with the buildings falling in around you.

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Me & Parker

Katie — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 15:44:00 +0000

If I’m not with my camera or on the computer editing, I’m probably at the barn. A couple of weeks ago I was tired of everyone other than me having awesome pics of themselves riding. So, I set up my camera, gave it to Dori and told her how to use it. Luckily it shoots at 8 frames/second, so she didn’t need to worry about much.

This beautiful horse is Parker, a Imported Hanoverian gelding. He’s a Weltmeyer son and competes 4′6″ jumpers, hunters, and 4th level dressage. He’s pretty nice

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Me & Cash

Katie — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 15:34:00 +0000

I find that a lot of people are confused with my blonde hair pic fom my wedding on my website, so I decided to put up a pic of myself (and Cash).

And here is one of my family

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Tess & Tim

Katie — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 04:07:00 +0000

I think everyone can tell, but this couple was fun!!! Tess and Tim were silly, light hearted, and really seemed to have a good time with each other They SMASHED the cake all over each other, we were constantly trying to get Tim to put his coat back on, and I really think they are consideing jumping off the dock into the quarry for a TTD session.

Oh, I almost forgot the best part: Dragonfly catered their reception YUM!! Tess has really good taste

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Kristen and Alex

Katie — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 03:57:00 +0000

Kristen and Alex were married on hot day at the Baughman Center in Gainesville, FL. It did rain for a week straight starting the Monday after their wedding, so I guess the hot was a blessing

I keep trying to find the perfect ways to describe their wedding and one thing keeps standing out: They were REALLY excited to get married! The love between these two was so apparent, it was striking. (Being a wedding photographer–that says a lot.)

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Ashley & Brendon

Katie — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 03:30:00 +0000

Ashley and Brendon were married a few weeks ago at the John Oliver Michale House outside of Athens, GA. There is so much to say about this amazing couple–let’s start about 10 years ago.

I don’t think I ever met Ashley, could have, I had met her older sister, but I don’t remember Ashley. She was probably in the pool while I was on a horse. He mom Kathleen and I rode at the same farm, Beaver Springs Farm in Loganville for years together. I actually took this pic when i was probably 16 of Kathleen’s horse:

She still has it framed in her house

So, back to the beautiful couple. Ashley and Brendon are both international swimmers. Everyone at their wedding were all swimmers. I think my mom (who was my assistant for the wedding) was wishing my (single) sister was attending due to the multitude of attractive athletes

Note: NOT her wedding cake. Somehow the cake maker got a little confused and dropped off the wrong one!!!

This is one of my favorite pics I have ever taken! The look so in love!

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Flourish Workshop

Katie — Tue, 12 May 2009 17:39:00 +0000

I attended a workshop a few weeks ago in Gainesville. Here are a few of the images from the day. We were located at Sweetwater Branch Inn, the site was perfect, the weather was perfect, the food was great, and the instruction and fellowship was AMAZING!!!

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They Don’t Come Any Cuter!!!

Katie — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0000

While at SEPPA (Southeastern Pro Photog Ass) this weekend I also took a few moments (hours) to spend by the lake. I did work on my tan, and as everyone should know my mom commented saying: “You are the palests person I’ve ever seen come out of FL”. FML

As most people who have read my blog know, Cash–the cutest man alive–LOVES water, mud, lakes, sprinklers, ect… Here are a few of him and his cousin DJ playing at my parent’s house. It was actually gettting a little dark, and I wanted to keep the DOF open a little F-4.5, so the ISO is way up 1200-2000, shutter at ~1/500 sec. It’s a little grainy, but I love it!!!

We will have a new addition to the family soon, so keep an eye out (still the 4 leg variety)

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Cara & Dustin

Katie — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 04:49:00 +0000

Cara and Dustin got married in beautiful Ocala. They had dream weather, good food, and plenty of dancing. Here are my favorites:

Jenn snapped these two:

Yes, all of those people were in the “choo-choo” konga line

Dustin is a pilot, so as they were leaving the guests whished them off with paper airplanes

Yes, they did fly off on a private plane to the Bahamas. I was trying to sneak on in the back…

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Crissy & Brian E-Session

Katie — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 03:16:00 +0000

Sorry this post took so long, I was sick last week Here are a few of my faves from Kanapaha Botanical garden. We actually had a 2-day E-session bc the crazy storms came in! It worked out pretty well though, Crissy and Brian were pretty relaxed and ready for the wedding day by the time we ended Sunday.

Beefy:

That’s a HOT one!!!

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Megan & Chris E-Session

Katie — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 22:22:00 +0000

Megan & Chris are both from Starke, FL. Every person we ran into, passed on the road, or saw at lucn seemed to know these two! I almost forgot what it’s like to be in your own hometown since John and I move around so much.

Chris is inthe Coast Guard and Megan is a Barrel Racer and works in the ER. This couple is full of stories and I could hang out with them all day long Here are a few from Megan’s farm and around Starke

Riding Roadhog

Chris had to steer so you can barely see Megan, she’s so tiny!

Walking along this road is where Chirs decided this was the woman he wanted to spend the rest of his life with

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Lorra & Kyle

Katie — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 20:13:00 +0000

I met Lorra and Kyle in Douglas GA at Lorras parent’s house, where they got engaged They are getting married on Lake Oconee, GA at Reynold’s Plantation in late May.

Cash got to play with their Westies

And Lorra’s niece

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Yasmeen & Lenny

Katie — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 15:37:00 +0000

Yasmeen and Lenny got married at the Thomas Center a few weeks ago (I know I’m way behing on Blogging). Here are a few of my favorites from their wedding…

These boys were all smiles

Isn’t she georgeous!?!?!?

The rings…

Father of bride, flower girl, and daughter of Yasmeen and Lenny.

Daughter of the couple, she danced the night away :)

Father Daughter dance.

Before set up, it’s a beautiful place for a wedding and reception.

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Cara & Dustin Engagement Session

Katie — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 03:05:00 +0000

Here are a few from Cara & Dustin’s engagement session last week. Dustin is a pilot in Ocala flying the race horse owners around, so we got to go to a STUNNING farm for a few shots Their wedding is coming up really quickly, get ready to see more of this cute couple!

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Yasmeen Gets Painted

Katie — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 05:46:00 +0000

Yasmeen is a beautiful bride I photographed last weekend. I decided to give Corel Painter a try today and LOVED the results! Isn’t she beautiful? More pics of the wedding to come soon

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Kristen & Alex

Katie — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 18:13:00 +0000

Kristen and Alex

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Roxie Needs a Home

Katie — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 19:10:00 +0000

On my last trip to GA, I not only came home with my bridesmaids dress for Mellissa and Dan’s wedding, I came home with a foster sister for Cash I’m assuming she is a Pitt Bull Terrier around 2-3 years old, 45lbs, female. I will have her spayed, give her a rabies vaccination, and deworm her. She seems to be in really good health, no fleas, good teeth, never been fought or hit. She is house trained, loves to cuddle, play fetch, and even knows sit, shake, and lay decently well. I crate her at night and when I leave the house. At night she’s very quite, but she dosen’t like to be left alone. She is very tolerant of Cash and his puppyness and she loved on everyone when I took her to Petsmart to have her scanned for a microchip.

If you know anyone who is looking for a little cuddlebug,
please call me @ 404.488.0328 or e-mail me @ katie@katieleonardPhotography.com

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PUG Practice Night Shoot

Katie — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 01:00:00 +0000

Tuesday night Megan and I packed up our gear and set out to San Marco in Jacksonville FL.
Take a look at my favorites I took that night

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Baby Leo 2 Months Old

Katie — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 00:32:00 +0000

Here is baby Leo. He’s 2 months old and a whopping 15lbs. The mother Tess is one of my future brides and I couldn’t help but ask her if I could photograph her baby. At our initial consultation, he slept. Today he wiggled; the whole time He was a very good sport, didn’t seem to mind the camera at all, and didn’t cry the whole time he had his photo shoot.

These are some of my favorites:

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Let’s Eat Cake! For St. Jude’s Children Hospital

Katie — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 04:35:00 +0000

Let’s Eat Cake! is a wedding cake competition benefitting St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Our goal is to donate at least $50,000 to this deserving organization. 100% of our proceeds will be
directly donated to St. Jude’s.

Let’s Eat Cake! will include a cake design and taste challenge as well as a live cake auction. The most coveted award is a “crowd’s favorite” award, which will be determined by our
guests after trying all of the delicious cakes.

Professional pastry chefs from all over the southeast are invited to compete. Aspiring pastry
chefs and at-home bakers will also be invited to compete in the amateur division. So, if you have been taking those classes at Michaels.. now it’s time to show it off!

Local and celebrity judges have volunteered their time to judge the event. All participating bakers will be asked to make a faux wedding cake to be displayed and judged. There is no theme for the wedding cakes, so the pastry chefs are encouraged to use their imagination. In addition to this, all participating chefs must prepare sheet cake to be tasted by the judges and the crowd. Cakes will be judged on appearance, attention to detail, taste & flavor combination, and texture. We will have a tasting station set up for our guests to try all of the participating cakes and cast their vote for the professional and amateur divisions. The winners of each division will be announced at the commencement of the event. We have four categories in each division; Best of Show, Most Beautiful & Creative Design, Tastiest Cake, and Crowd’s Favorite.

If you’d like to attend (and get to nibble on all those fab cakes), donate or just want more details go to:
Let’s Eat Cake Blog

AND…

Just for this week!!! You can make Melissa pay. She has pledged to donate $1 for any blogs on which “Let’s Eat Cake” details appears. So pass it on and be sure to send Melissa DiStephano a link (info@masterpieceweddings.net) so she can pay up!

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Happy New Year!

Katie — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 02:19:00 +0000

Nothing noteworthy in this blog, just some pics that make me smile

Someone else wrote this in the sand near the pier, it made my night!

My hubby John and Will, our 2nd cousin Christmas Eve fighting over THAT hat.

John and Chris @ a bar on Folley Beach, SC watching the Falcons win!!!
***note: I am a Miller Girl, not a Bud Girl!

Cash wanting to get loose on the beach in Charleston, SC

Cash loose on the beach @ Saint Simons Island, GA w/friends Cooper and Ace.
Yes, we did manage to catch them. It took a minute.

This guy modeled for me at the marina on SSI.

Farewell 2008! (Me, John, & Cash on SSI, GA)

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Cassandra & Garrick, Part 2

Katie — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 01:52:00 +0000

I am FINALLY uploading more images from Cassandra & Garrick’s wedding in Athens GA from December 2008. Sorry, my Blog is the last one to get updated!

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Cassandra & Garrick

Katie — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 04:00:00 +0000

I’m in the process of editing their pics, but here a a few from the portraits.

Aren’t they adorable?

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Kaylee A. McGraw

Katie — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 21:25:00 +0000

Kaylee A. McGraw is here! I tooke these a few weeks ago of my good friend Jennifer and Jon McGraw’s new baby girl. More will come when we have some extra time!

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Wendy & John Engagement Session

Katie — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 22:45:00 +0000

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Joanne & Shane @ Kanapaha

Katie — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 21:59:00 +0000

Here are a few from Yesterday @ Kanapaha Botanical Gardens. Joanne and Shane both live in Gainesville and plan on getting married in Tampa in 2010. Joanne is finishing her undergrad @ UF and Shane is a tennis pro @ DB Raquet Club.

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My Assistants (NICE) View

Katie — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 20:10:00 +0000

Here we are getting down and dirty shooting Wendy & John’s Engagement session @ the Anfinsen house. More pics of the actual engagement session coming right up!

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Cash gets Ready for Halloween!!!

Katie — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:25:00 +0000

He’s not impressed with his outfit.

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Melissa & Dan

Katie — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 17:02:00 +0000

Melissa and I have been great friends for around 15 years. She asked me to photograph her engagement pics and be one of her bridesmaids! How lucky am I? She met Dan while attending Berry College (also my Alma Mater). All three of us were on the Equestrian Team and still share the love of horses.

These pictures were squeezed in during her engagement party in Madison GA at her parents farm. It was very overcast and starting to drizzle, but we got it done I can’t wait until the wedding in Madison @ The Oaks.

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This weekend in Bushnell, FL

Katie — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 03:50:00 +0000

Saturday was another AWS breed inspection. We had a great time seeing all the beautiful babies. And Sunday was a local dressage show. Both days were beautiful, the footing was wonderful, and the people there very supportive. I’m still working on uploading Saturday’s images, but I did want to share one beautiful mover with everyone. Look at him go!

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AWS Inspections @ GIHP

Katie — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 17:11:00 +0000

We had a big weekend, there were beautiful babies everywhere! The American Warmblood Society had their annual inspection at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, GA last Sunday. I was lucky enough to be chosen to be their photographer for the day, and I loved it! I will also be photographing the AWS Inspection in Florida next weekend in Bushnell @ Sumter Equestrain Center.

This one was my favorite, her name was Zip, but we renamed her Meatball

Loved this mare! Song of Songs
We’re going up!

Say Cheese!

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We Graduated!!!

Katie — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:15:00 +0000

Cash, Cooper, JoAnne, and I recently graduated from puppy class at Pet’sMart! We will be continuing on and starting the Intermediate class in October. I will also be photographing our class instructor and her border collie soon. I’m sure those pics will be fun

For those who don’t know what Cash and I look like, we are the ones on the right.

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Berry College Engagement Shoot

Katie — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 03:44:00 +0000

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Oh good Lord, That’s MY Dog!!!

Katie — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 02:59:00 +0000

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Tennis @ DB Raquet Club

Katie — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 01:24:00 +0000

Somehow I got suckered into photographing something I know nothing about, tennis. See what you think, John thought they were pretty good!

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Cash the Destroyer

Katie — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 02:43:00 +0000

Here is our new puppy Cash. He is named after Johnny Cash because he has a little white guitar on his forehead. He is basically bad to the bone, but his cuteness covers all sins.

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Tammy & Mike

Katie — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 03:47:00 +0000

Tammy and Mike had their engagement session last weekend at Kanapaha Gardens.

I love the pics with the dogs, they were having no part of posing for me.

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Another one of DJ

Katie — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 03:01:00 +0000

So here he is being a “bad dog”. It was super cold and he had been locked in the car most of the day, so when I got him out I let him pull on the leash (plus it made for a really cute pic).

Here is another one that I accidentally left the indoor arena (horse show) settings on and took it. The colors came out crazy and I loved it.

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Autumn & Tyler

Katie — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 03:06:00 +0000

This wedding my fiancee was in (look below). Look at how cute he is I snapped a few before of the groomsmen and bridesmaids. This wedding was held in Rome GA at the best place in the world Berry College (my Alma Mater).

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Jen’s Wedding

Katie — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 03:02:00 +0000

I was actually in this wedding, so there aren’t too many (none of the groom). I just couldn’t help snapping some of one of my best friends in the world Jennifer McGraw This wedding was held in St. Augustine FL.

The other bridesmaids (acting like bridesmaids).

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