New Camera, New Coffee Shop, and New Beginnings!

Wow. I am seriously embarrassed by how long it has been since I formed my last blog post. But in the past year or so, I've finally figured out why! You see, before, I was using this space as a place for me to simply"post pictures". But no more.

I've finally realized, thanks to the help of the insanely talented Jasmine Star, that my blog is my "voice" as a photographer. This is the place where I get to share with the world what's behind the lens...not just what's in front of it.

So since it's finally springtime here in the Washington, DC area (thanks for the false hope Phil), I figured it was time for some new beginnings on the blog. So here's a quick and dirty list of what's been going on in the past year.

• I made the long overdue discovery of two new favorite music artists - who are now on my go-to editing Pandora station: Florence and the Machine and Lindsey Sterling. Girl power!!

• I discovered a new, local coffee shop that I love...and it's within walking distance to my house. Since I live in the car-centric suburbs of Northern Virginia, I honestly never even dreamed this would happen. Thank you Henry (i.e. Cuppy's Coffee)
• My husband finally left the restaurant industry, so we now have this brand new pastime entitled "weekends together". I'm smitten. 

• I finally took the plunge and bought a Nikon D700, a camera I've been salivating over for years now. 

• And finally, I learned that I apparently need to lift some heavier weights so that I can support the Nikon D700 and a 70-200mm lens...as the 8 pounds of equipment somehow made my arms hurt after a few hours. See you tomorrow fitness center!

My camera has also been quite busy since the blog and I last met up. I will leave you with a small taste. Enjoy!

Mama and baby Brinkman. So glad I could be there for this sweet moment! ~ February 2012

The incredible and energetic Hamilton Family. Even their shadows were photogenic! ~ April 2012

The handsome and talented Alex Aanderud. ~ May 2012 (This headshot was used for his new book, check it out!)

The most adorable flower girl ever, courtesy of our friends Chad & Hazel Bray. ~ May 2012

Adorable baby feet. Thanks Moore Family! ~ July 2012

I flew to Colorado to photograph the incredible Joyce & Elias Molen! The scenery wasn't too bad either. :) ~ July 2012

Liam turned 1 in February. Thanks for the cake and the dose of cuteness Turner Family! ~ February 2013

The best part of this new beginning...is new friends! Like Megan, of Megan Chase Photography. Love her! ~ April 2013

The brand new couple basking in newlywed bliss. I love how it seems that nobody else is even there! ~ March 2013

Last but not least is this GORGEOUS Couple. And yes, they did in fact paint the walls to match their outfits. ~ April 2013