CHAVIAGRAPHY

Ruel and Johannah Tyer

2012-01-20T14:02:00.000-08:00

My sister Johannah got married, and asked me to take a few portrait shots for her. She had me as a bridesmaid in her wedding, so I couldn't completely shoot it, but I was able to catch a few worthy of putting on the blog. I was able to also shoot with my brother Israel Groveman, and some of the shots in here are due to his creative eye. Hope you enjoy!

Sylvester Family!

2011-11-24T14:07:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I love you guys, and am so thankful that I get to be a part of all of your lives. Enjoy the pictures! :)

Mills Family Shoot

2011-11-16T19:22:00.000-08:00

I had the privilege yet again of shooting this wonderful family. I have done a photo shoot each year for them in 2010, 2009, and 2008! Every year I am so blessed by the kids hugs and excitement to see me, and the love they have for each other. I have seen them grow from little babies to mature children. They are some of the best behaved kids I have done photo shoots of. I love them! Enjoy! :)

Ruel and Johannah

2011-10-17T19:33:00.000-07:00

My sister and best friend is getting married! Johannah, I will never forget what a friend you have been to me. God has blessed us with such a good relationship, ever since we were both young.

You have always showed me how much you love me, whether it was by making up stories, or holding my hands when I was scared at night, can't believe you let a three year old sleep with you every night :) Thanks for sharing the same bed and room with me for 18 years.

Being in the same Bible study group for 7 years and discipling me.

I think about all the many adventures and road trips and mutual good friends we have had over these past 7 years.

Johannah, selfishly I am glad that you just now met your husband, because I know that we wouldn't have been able to have all the adventures that we have had over the years. :)

I love you so much and am so excited that you are starting a new life with Ruel, he could not be more perfect for you!

Johannah's life has been characterized by a faithful passionate walk with the Lord. She has had the desire to get married for a long time, but has given that desire to Jesus. In the process she has poured into many people's lives and been an example to many.

God is so good, and has brought her a man in His own time, and they could not be more perfect for each other!

She and Ruel met almost a year ago, and they will be getting married on the year anniversary of their first date! The cool thing is their relationship is centered around dates of 10. Both of their birthdays are on the 10th of the month, and they will be getting married December 10th! This time is bittersweet for me, since Johannah will be moving away, but I am so happy that she is starting her new life with her husband in Charlottesville :)

I wish you guys the best and am so excited to see you two get married! :)

I love you so much and will never forget our times together!

"A sister is a forever friend." -Author Unknown

Drew and Karen Bickle

2011-07-12T14:57:00.000-07:00

Angel and Lindsay

2011-06-27T20:48:00.000-07:00

Beware this is a gangster post. Don't be fooled by the start of it, these two love reading, but they have a real edge. Angel knew where all the best graffiti in town was, so we risked our lives to get some shots, and man was it worth it!

Enjoy!!! Can't wait to see you two get married July 9th!

Sacrifice

2011-05-08T17:58:00.000-07:00

This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down His life for us, and we also ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. 1 John 3:16

How can I even begin to express how you have affected my life. The verse above talks about how Jesus came to earth to lay down His life for us. I can truly say that you have been a firsthand example of laying your life down for our family. Day after day, you taught us what true servanthood and love looks like.

You have many people who love you sooo much!

She is worth far more than rubies. Proverbs 31:10

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

She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue. Proverbs 31:26

Your example of a woman who loves people and loves your family shines to everyone who comes in contact with you. After raising all seven of us, and homeschooling day in and day out, you would think that you would want to take a rest. But no, the first thing you do is go find a job at a school for severely autistic children. The heart you have for each child at your school is so provoking to me, as you pray for them and carry them on your heart, as if they were your own.

Most of all, I feel beyond privileged to call you my Mom. You pray for me every day, and you tell me. Often, if I don't see you, you will take the time to text me or call to let me know you are interceding on my behalf.

"Rejoice in hope, be patient in affliction, and constant in prayer." Romans 12:12

I want to be like you, and if I live half the life that you have lived for Jesus so far I will have done well. Your heart for people is something that has always impacted me. I know that your love for the people you come in contact with will never go to waste.

“Many women do noble things,

but you surpass them all.” Proverbs 31:29

I love you so much Mom, and I want you to know you are the best.

Ziggy and Jennifer Engagement

2011-04-18T21:11:00.000-07:00

Ben and Joy Frank

2011-01-23T15:15:00.000-08:00

"With Christ being the center of our lives, amazing things have happened, we are so grateful. Such a beautiful thing to watch God work in the most beautiful ways." Ben and Joy

These two lovebirds met three years ago, and the rest was history. They were friends for a while before they fell in love. They have both waited for this day for a long time! Congratulations! I am so happy for you two!

Miller Time!

2010-12-09T19:56:00.000-08:00

Family shoot coming soon, so happy this little guy is born! Stay tuned! :)

Barrisford Family 2010

2010-11-28T17:17:00.000-08:00

Here is another family from last year! Loved getting to see you again, and spend time walking through beautiful Brookside Gardens! Enjoy the pictures!

Mills Family

2010-11-01T13:19:00.000-07:00

You may remember this family from last year's shoot or the year before. I have had the privilege of shooting this family three years in a row now! I always so enjoy being with them, and seeing the kids grow from year to year. That is one part of my job that I love, I get to capture memories so that people can have them for years to come.

My goodness they are a model family!

Ryan and Jen Campbell

2010-10-10T13:25:00.000-07:00

I had an awesome time shooting this wedding. These two met in college, and both share very similar interests. The reason I particularly like this couple is the fact that they love snowboarding. You may remember this post from a year ago. Their wedding was everything I thought it would be and more. I wish you two the best life together, and am hoping we can connect to ride on the slopes together this winter! :)

Gorgeous!

Getting ready for the ceremony

Steve and Caity Gill

2010-09-13T20:58:00.000-07:00

He was her best friend's brother. She was afraid of what her best friend would think, if she told her. Finally, she did and the rest was history. They liked each other for six years before anything happened. Now they will be spending the rest of their lives together! I wish you two the best, and loved seeing how much you care for each other. Thanks for letting me share your special day!

Beautiful!!

Getting ready before the wedding!

Sooo happy! :)

Dancin Time!

Paciorek Family

2010-09-01T19:37:00.000-07:00

It was so much fun doing the shoot with you guys, your kids are adorable! Thanks for being such awesome clients, hope you enjoy the pictures!

A little photographer in the making..

They are going to be good friends, I can tell!

Peter and Ruth Skillman

2010-08-21T11:48:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much for letting me be a part of your day! Peter and Ruth, I wish you all the best in your new life together. It was a lot of fun shooting your wedding! :)

Hope you enjoy the sneak preview!

So in love!

The church was beautiful...

Kwame and Sarah

2010-07-27T11:30:00.000-07:00

I got to shoot a wedding in 95 degree weather. The only thing that made it bearable was that the couple who got married were awesome! Kwame and Sarah met playing sports together, and became good friends. As the months went by, they grew in their affection for each other. They said they both just knew it was supposed to happen. You two are an awesome couple, and I so enjoyed getting to know you better.

Congratulations you guys! :)

Seth and Courtney Ranneberger

2010-06-25T07:38:00.000-07:00

Thanks so much for letting me be a part of your special day! Hope you enjoy the pictures :)

Seth when he saw Courtney for the first time :)

So happy!!

Courtney and her sister have a really close friendship, and it was awesome to capture it throughout the day...she gave a toast that really honored her sister, and they both were in tears by the end of it.

Dancing time!

Arlington National Cemetery

2010-05-18T08:12:00.000-07:00

"I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country." Nathan Hale

"We have enjoyed so much freedom for so long that we are perhaps in danger of forgetting how much blood it cost to establish the Bill of Rights." Felix Frankfurter

Arlington Cemetery is such an awesome testimony to how many people have given up their lives for freedom. As you walk around the graves there are thousands upon thousands of gravestones for as far as your eyes can see.

My Mom's brother died when his jet crashed, he was an Air Force pilot. I never met my Uncle Stephen. He died before I was born. My Mom often talks about him, and what an amazing guy he was. We went to go find his gravestone, and it was a very sobering experience.

My boyfriend David Rivera fought over in Iraq and Afghanistan, and had many friends die in combat. This gravestone he was looking at was his lieutenant.

I am so grateful for the privilege it is to live in a country like America, and I often forget how much men and woman have sacrificed for our country and the freedoms we enjoy. Going to the cemetery was such a reminder that life is short, and very precious.

Andrew and Brittany Cleveland

2010-05-05T19:18:00.000-07:00

I shot a wedding in Savage, Md this past weekend, I hope you enjoy the shots!

It was a pleasure meeting you Andrew and Brittany!

Steve and Caity

2010-04-18T19:53:00.000-07:00

I had an awesome time hanging out with this couple. They are so laid back, and are so great for each other! We did the shoot at Havre de Grace, which is where Steve proposed to Caity. They were so cute as we walked to the spot where he asked her. It was the first time they had been back, since the big day!

Here are some pictures of the mini shoot!

Love is like a battlefield? ;)

Where Steve proposed to Caity, so romantic and special!

Ryan and Jen

2010-02-24T16:29:00.000-08:00

A girl who snowboards. A guy who snowboards. They get together, and decide to get married.

As we were walking and talking Ryan says, "All of my friends are always asking me...how did you get such an awesome girl? She is awesome at snowboarding and loves sports. What guy wouldn't want a girl like that?"

When Ryan and Jen first emailed me about doing the photography for their wedding, and we set up the mini engagement shoot, they wanted to have the pictures taken in an old antique ice cream shop. Well, plans changed. We got the blizzard of 2010. The ice cream shop changed its mind. We had to reschedule the shoot several times, and than a lightbulb turned on in my head!

We decided to do a shoot of them with their snowboards!!!

We did some normal shots!

Ryan and Jen I had an awesome time getting to know you guys better, and I can't wait to shoot your wedding in September!

Matt and Cat Watson!

2009-11-10T08:38:00.000-08:00

This wedding I had the privilege of shooting for my friend Catherine, was one of the most laid back, yet classy weddings I have been to. It took place at Catherine's house in Gaithersburg, which was a beautiful property!

The whole morning the house was filled with activity in every room. Father of the Bride was playing in one room for the kids, while in another the bride was getting ready...

The makeup artist :)

In another room, preparations were being made for flowers..

I love this shot, because Catherine had no idea I was taking it...

Gorgeous.

Beautiful Bridesmaids!

The new Mr and Mrs Watson!!!

Time for the partyyyyy

Dancing to Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus :)

The best bartenders ever!

CONGRATULATIONS MATT AND CAT!!!!!!

Matt and Cat!

2009-11-06T16:12:00.000-08:00

This was the most last minute shoot I have ever done, because this beautiful couple's wedding is TOMORROW!!!!!! They have a beautiful baby girl named Evelyn. She is the cutest thing ever.

I can't wait to be with you all tomorrow on your big day! Hope you enjoy this mini shoot!

The Sylvester Family

2009-11-03T14:20:00.000-08:00

My how they have all grown. I started nannying for the Sylvester family about four years ago, and ever since they have been like my second family. I used to always take my camera to work with me, and for good reason...this family is a model family! I had the privilege of doing a shoot of them a couple days ago, so here are some of the shots. Enjoy!

The Barrisford Family

2009-10-13T18:32:00.000-07:00

Isaac and Christen Lee

2009-10-10T17:50:00.000-07:00

I love family shoots! :)

Raising the little guy to be a Redskins fan!!

Mitch and Allie Paredes

2009-10-06T13:40:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of shooting Mitch and Allie's wedding this past weekend. I wish you all the best, in your new life together!! :)

They are MARRIED!!!

Clayton and Melissa Welch

2009-09-20T16:36:00.000-07:00

North Carolina. The best place in the whole wide world. I got to shoot Clayton and Melissa's wedding this past weekend!

Clayton is the manager at a toy store, and Melissa is a full time nanny. Guess who their wedding was centered around? That's right! KIDS! Let me tell you, it was one of the most fun weddings I have been to. They had everything from bubbles and crayons, to a pinata, and a mini people bouquet and garter toss! You will see further down :)

Clayton and Melissa I had so much fun getting to know you two better, and I wish you all the best in your new life together!

Aren't they a gorgeous couple?!

This little girl was so cute, she wanted to be a part of the ceremony, so she ran up in the middle of it!

Kids everywhere :)

The Grooms Men.

The beautiful ladies!

Vintage.

It was so cute at the reception...instead of tossing the garter to the single guys, Clayton tossed a stuffed bear to all the little men. Look at their little faces!

Clayton and Melissa would like to say

To all the guests! :)

Lotinsky Family

2009-09-06T10:54:00.000-07:00

Went to downtown Frederick to get some shots of this awesome family, I had fun with you all! They are avid Steelers fans, as you will see further down :)

The couples of the family :)

Hard core Steelers fans!

Mitch and Allie

2009-09-01T10:48:00.000-07:00

They are engaged! Mitch and I have been friends since wayyy back when, and I am so happy to be able to have the privilege of shooting his wedding! His fiancee Allie, is a bright, happy girl, who is perfect for Mitch. I am so happy that you two are going to spend the rest of your lives enjoying this awesome gift of God! :)

Can't wait to see you two married!!

My life the past two months....

2009-08-19T09:51:00.000-07:00

So much has happened in my life in the past month, and it has been a very busy summer! Here are a few pictures to catch you up on what has been going on! I am in a relationship with this awesome guy, and so far it has been such a blessing from the Lord! We have both learned so much since we started courting, and have enjoyed talking about the Lord, and growing in our faith together, and just hangin out and having a blast.

He is planning on moving to Maryland in November!

We all went to Boston, to visit David a couple weeks ago, here are a some shots from that trip!

The models :)

David fought over in Iraq, as a Marine. I am so thankful that he is back safe and sound. When he came back he joined the Coast Guard. He gets out of that in two months!

Here are some shots I took at the Montgomery County Fair this past week

The infamous pig races

Hot, sweaty and tired pretty much sums it up!

Mauricio and Sonia Velarde

2009-08-16T16:06:00.000-07:00

Just a little sneak peak of the wedding day!

Getting married!

First kiss, it was adorable :)

Just married!

Dan and Meghan Lake

2009-07-24T13:18:00.000-07:00

Let's start this post off with a kiss!

Getting ready for the big day!

Sooo pretty!

Waiting for the wedding to start!

More shots of the gorgeous bride!

The ceremony was outside, on the lawn of this beautiful mansion, the setting could not have been more perfect!

I looked at the guests, and saw this little cutie was ready for the reception to start already! Time to eat the fan.

This picture has a story behind it. I told the little boy, to give the girls a hug, and they apparently got really embarrassed, because we all know, at that age boys have cooties! Their reactions in the photo, were priceless...

Back to the ceremony!

They both started crying in the ceremony...

Mr and Mrs Dan Lake!

Mmmm the cake!

Apparently they are friends now!

Perfect ending to a perfect day!

Bogdan and Leslie Wojtsekhowski

2009-07-12T17:56:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of shooting the wedding of Bogdan and Leslie yesterday! They have been dating for ten years, and yesterday they decided to go ahead and tie the knot! It was very cool to see them interact, and see how much they loved each other.

It was awesome working with you guys, enjoy the pictures! Thanks to Liana O'Connor for second shooting with me! Check out her page at http://whatisee-photography.blogspot.com/

A few shots of the beautiful bride Leslie!

The wonderful couple!

Walking down the aisle, to marry her best friend!

Exchanging of rings, and the kiss!

They are man and wife!

The Mills Family

2009-06-15T10:12:00.000-07:00

I got to shoot another session for this family, you may remember seeing their beautiful faces on my blog last year! I hope ya'll enjoy the pictures! Thanks for being awesome clients and referring me to people, you guys are the best! :)

So adorable!

Cheesin for the camera

Look at those baby blue eyes :)

The Vivians

2009-06-08T16:07:00.000-07:00

My first memory of this family was when I was 8 years old, raking my neighbor's yard. I remember them driving by in a minivan looking for their dog who had run away.

Since that long and distant memory, the Vivian family and I have become really good friends. Partly because we have all grown up in the roughest area known to mankind...Wheaton, Maryland baby!

Christie (the oldest in the family) and I have been pretty much best friends since we were both ten. We always hung out, because well, Christie and I were the definitions of tomboys, we loved everything to do with sports, and prided ourselves on being tough. ;) You need to be tough when you live in Wheaton. You just have to be!

Billy and Katie are my buds! I have gotten to know them both a lot better this past year, and I love hanging out with them! They always make me laugh.

Here are a few shots of the BEAUTIFUL Vivan family :)

Ok, so funny story. We wanted to find some graffiti walls to take pictures in front of, so we drove to this place where the MS13 gang hangs out. But of course, they had just painted it with fresh paint when we got there, so no graffiti! But here are some tough pictures, to represent.

Ok, now for some normal shots :)

Mauricio and Sonia

2009-06-07T19:19:00.000-07:00

I just recently met Mauricio and Sonia, and they are an awesome couple! I had a blast with you guys at Brookside Gardens, thanks for being great models :)

Stay tuned for more pictures from the wedding day, countdown to August 15th!

Ian and Angelita Lotinsky

2009-05-31T16:15:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful day. Oh wait. No, it was raining, actually POURING as I took pictures of Angelita getting ready on her big day. As Angelita was getting her hair and makeup done, the hairdresser said, "I hear its good luck to have rain on your wedding day, its a sign that your marriage will be great!"

As we ran out to the car under an umbrella, with buckets of rain pouring down, Katrina, (Angelita's sister) says, Angelita, sing that song that you always sing when you are going to weddings! Today is YOUR wedding!!!

Goin to the chapel, was the song of choice. As we all piled in the car we sang and sang as the rain kept coming down. We prayed, Lord please help the rain to stop!

And than, a miracle! Right as we reached Bethesda, the place for the ceremony the rain stopped and the sun came out! It was, at last a beautiful day.

A perfect day to marry your best friend, the love of your life.

Rain, rain go away! Come when its not my wedding day :)

Drop dead gorgeous

What's a wedding without kids?

And family and friends of course ;)

The groom and his wonderful Mom!

And the two shall become one....

Sooo in love

Geez you guys are a good lookin couple!

Partyyyyyy time!!

What an adorable little girl :)

Dad giving a toast..

Goodbye!!!!!

Wedding Coming Soon...

2009-05-29T23:19:00.000-07:00

WAIT FOR IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ian and Angelita

2009-05-14T17:55:00.000-07:00

"Our relationship is like a rollercoaster!" Direct quote from the bride to be, Ms. Angelita Harder :)

You see, I have had an up close view of this couple's relationship since they first started going out, two years ago! Angelita is in my small group at church, and we spent many counseling sessions with her, when she wasn't quite sure whether she liked Ian. They actually broke it off for a while, to see what they should do about the relationship, and whether it should be broken off for good. I remember Angelita crying that night to us girls, saying she missed Ian, and how hard it was that they were taking a break. Now, if that's not a sign that you are falling in love, I don't know what is. I spoke my mind that night(what else is new), and told Angelita she was crazy to think that she didn't have feelings for him, and yet was crying that they couldn't communicate!

The poor boy was smitten with her, and thank God he kept pursuing her! They ended up getting back together, SURPRISE!

Now, tonight as I post this Angelita is a completely different person around Ian. They are so in love, and the chemistry was flying through the roof in our session ;)

Hope you guys enjoy this mini engagement shoot.

Can't wait to shoot your wedding in two weeks!

Mother's Day

2009-05-10T18:15:00.000-07:00

Homeschool? That was definitely not the first thing that was going through my Mom's head, when she first had us. As the years went on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, and then of course the 7th child which was me, made our entrance into the world. Mom, being young and generally inexperienced with teaching (she would say...definitely not the case), decided that she was going to homeschool every single one of us, all the way through high school. All of us would say, without a doubt she was the hardest teacher we ever had. :)

I still remember those days, waking up at 5 in the morning to memorize Scripture, practice our hour of music, and then of course the breakfast table. I still remember Mom would read a passage of the Bible to us, and then share everything that she learned from that passage. My Mom has always had a way of bringing things in the Bible alive, and applying them in very real ways to every day life.

If you don't know my Mom and you are reading this blog, let me tell you about her. She is by far the most passionate about Jesus, faithful, diligent, loving, unselfish person you will ever meet. She sacrificed her whole life to raise us. She taught us about the most important thing in life. Mom, the best gift you have ever given me, is telling me that I am a sinner and need to be saved. Thank you for daily and consistently praying and speaking truth into our lives. You are a woman of prayer, and when you tell me you are praying for me, I know that you will.

My Mom is like a teenager still in many ways :) She dresses better than I do, she likes Hannah Montanna (how cool is that) she LOVES the gym and working out, she loves the outdoors, and she is an incredible writer! Here is her website if you want to see what I mean! http://magroveman.xanga.com/

One of the most wonderful things about my Mom, is that after 30 + years of teaching, raising and instructing us, she decided to work full time at a center for severly autistic children. The heart she has for those kids is incredible. Many nights she will come home crying, and express to me how she hurts for them, and how she just wants them to experience a normal life.

Mom, I love you sooo much and I will never meet someone who has more faith and love for the Lord than you. Your heart for others and your complete lack of selfishness have always been an example to me. Thank you for loving me for 22 years, and investing your time into my life. Happy Mother's Day!

P.S. No family post would be complete without showing off my adorable nephew....

Jamie and Corinne

2009-04-27T20:17:00.000-07:00

These two are probably the coolest couple I have shot in a while. They seriously are some of the most genuine people I have worked with. As we were talking and getting to know each other, I found out that they go to Outback Steakhouse a lot, and apparently it is their favorite restaraunt in the area! I am a waitress there, and they were nice enough to come in and visit me two days after the wedding! I was so encouraged that night, because they gave me the best tip I have ever gotten! :)

Jamie and Corinne I hope you like these photos, and I want you both to know I really enjoyed being at your wedding, and seeing the love you have for each other, and for other people! Love you guys! Enjoy the pictures...

This first shot, is probably my favorite from the wedding because it is the style I am shooting for as a photographer. If you look closely at the little boy in the picture, his face is classic!

The beautiful dress

Getting hitched! :)

The ceremony was very short and sweet which I thought was awesome, that is totally how I will do mine when the time comes!

This was during the special song for the both of them, I thought it was adorable how they were both just looking at each other:)

Now for the fun shots :) Here are a few pictures of gorgeous Corinne!

Now on to the reallllly adorable shots, are you ready? :)

The reception was on a cruise ship going around the Potomac River in downtown Washington DC. It was so much fun, though I got very dizzy when it started, I haven't been on a boat since I was three years old :) Here are a few shots from the reception!

This little boy was really cute, he kept taking pictures of me with his small little camera, and laughing, saying I got you! He was giving me a taste of my own medicine I guess!

A few last night shots outside on the ship..

Aimee Cleveland

2009-04-12T20:04:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Aimee for graduating from college this spring!!! :)

We went out back in her yard and took a couple last minute shots before she went back to school today...

Joe and Julie Giove

2009-04-11T22:08:00.000-07:00

This is where it all began a year ago, on the steps of the Capitol! Joe and Julie recently had their wedding anniversary, CONGRATULATIONS you guys! Hope you enjoy the pictures :)

Little Lechner Girls

2009-03-16T11:44:00.000-07:00

I did a photo shoot for Jeanie and her little girls at Rekindle, it was a last minute fun thing. I loved hanging out with you guys Jeanie! :)

Enjoy the pictures!

Rekindle 2009

2009-03-14T15:34:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know, I went to Laguna Beach, Florida this past week for a retreat with some awesome friends. It was a great time, the weather was beautiful, sunny and 80 degrees all week! The messages were powerful, refreshing and convicting, and the whole week was absolutely a blast. To all my Rekindle friends old and new, I LOVE YOU GUYS! Enjoy the pictures!

My new friend Elaine, we are twins.

There were some sweet games of volleyball goin on every day...

As well as basketball....

And ping.........pong.

This picture is blurry but i adore it. Oh, and if you notice that we are wearing the same thing in all the pictures, that is because I panicked and took all of them on the last day, realized I didn't get any pictures with friends, only scenery ;)

There were baptisms, which were really cool to watch!

Charlotte Dixon, doin her thing.

There were a ton of cute little babies there...

Like mother like daughter...

My friend Lizzy Honea's little baby, I can't believe she is a mom already, I am so old!

Photo shoot coming up with little miss Alathea and Abigail Lechner...wait for it!

My buddies...

Erin Smith

2009-03-04T15:07:00.000-08:00

My brother's girlfriend from Canada is here visiting!!! She is the top hairdresser in her town, and so I thought, why not do a little exchange...you give me a haircut, and I'll do a photo shoot of you! Needless to say, I got the better end of the deal with my awesome hair cut. But we had so much fun being creative and playing in the snow :)

I had so much fun taking pictures for you today and hanging out, Erin!

Hope you enjoy these! :)

Liana O'Connor

2009-02-12T19:09:00.000-08:00

I took some pictures for my friend Liana today, we had a blast driving around town, looking for some good spots to do a photo shoot! Here are a few of the shots I got today, with my 18-200mm lens.

This song by Kelly Clarkson, is new and I like it a lot. The words are NOT true though! My life would suck without Jesus :) Call me cheesy. DO it. Enjoy the pics!

SO cute!

The Paciorek Family

2009-02-02T11:07:00.000-08:00

I had a lot of fun with you guys! Enjoy!!! :)

Babysitting :)

2009-01-30T21:03:00.000-08:00

I had so much fun babysitting tonight for the Lee family. They all have so much personality, and they were so good! :)

Here are a few shots I got from the night...

March for Life

2009-01-22T21:40:00.000-08:00

Here are two shots I got from today's rally on the mall in Washington DC...I think the thing that had the biggest impression on me today, were people's signs. I saw one sign, that said,

9/11-3,000 deaths
Abortion- 3,000 deaths every day

The statistics are crushing, and heartbreaking. To think that every day 3,000 innocent little babies die for no reason, other than the selfishness of the human heart, for convenience. I believe we need to stand up for what is right. Here is a paragraph I wrote on abortion, a couple of months ago, after I visited the Holocaust museum. I hope it serves to burden your heart for the magnitude, and seriousness of this problem we have in our country.

:Life:

I went to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum yesterday. It was a beautiful sunny day, and the world was going about its every day business as usual. Centered in the heart of Washington D.C. the museum stands, as a reminder of years gone by. I enter into the dark building, and its vast blackness smothers me. The building itself is breathtaking and gorgeous, however, my spirit is heavy for I know what this building is here to remember. I take one courageous step after another, knowing what lies ahead of me. As I reach the elevator, I am immediately handed a card, upon which is the detailed story of a person who really lived through the terrible time. However, most of these cards end in death. Upon entering the elevator which takes you up into the top level of the exhibition, I encountered four other people, who like me, know what they are about to experience. Their faces are cheery and warm, filled with delightful thoughts of every day life. "Jay, I shot a 95 on the golf course the other day!" as his friend congratulates him; our attention turns to the monitor at the top of the elevator. There displayed is a video depicting the life of Adolf Hitler and how he rose to power. Immediately a dark cloud envelopes the elevator and its inhabitants, as our attention is riveted by history. Suddenly, that golf score, doesn't seem quite so awesome. A hushed silence takes over. The elevator doors open, and we step out into the exhibition hall. Masses of people, milling back and forth, examining artifacts, reading pieces of history. I make my way slowly, very slowly, reading each little panel of information. As I go further and further, my heart grows heavier. Suddenly it hits me. Today, in history we are fighting an enemy as big, or bigger then Adolf Hitler. That enemy is the silent holocaust of unborn babies. I see grown men and women being treated terribly during the Holocaust, and it saddens me terribly.

I am even more saddened to think that people, who are living today, are going to museums of remembrance such as the Holocaust museum, and these very men and women, quite possibly might be part of the holocaust of killing unborn babies. I believe that someday, we will look back at this time, when abortion was common place, and be absolutely horrified. They have no voice. Let us be the voice for them.

My friend, we are at a very important time in history, and God calls each and every one of us to stand for what is right, regardless of the cost. Will you join me in fighting this way of life?

"I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live."

Deuteronomy 30:19

Kurt and Naomi Shenk

2009-01-03T14:40:00.000-08:00

I had the privilege of going to one of my friend's weddings today, we have grown up together and known each other since we were both about eight years old. I was not the photographer this time, so I got to sit back and enjoy the wedding which was awesome! Here are just a couple shots I got, unfortunately I didn't take too many...

Christmas 08

2008-12-25T23:30:00.000-08:00

My awesome Mom, who decorated the house so nicely....

Quinn was having a ball, and eating tons of candy...

His Grandma and Grandpa got him a rocking horse for Christmas, and he absolutely LOVED it...look how everyone is gathered around him, that pretty much sums up our times as a fam with him around :)

Me and my buddy :)

Uncle Dan

Uncle Judah, i love the expression on Quinn's face, he is thinking about that beard, I bet!

Later on a friend of mine, Liana came over to hang out and I did a little photo shoot with her and Johannah...

One last shot of his pure joy to be on his horse!

Merry Christmas Everyone!

A Few Bridal Shots

2008-12-23T10:41:00.000-08:00

More of My Little Sylvesters :)

2008-12-19T21:59:00.000-08:00

Anddddd my personal favorites....

Mr Quinn

2008-12-10T14:05:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to show ya'll some of the pictures I got of my little nephew over Thanksgiving. He is growing up so much, and every day he is doing something new, he so much fun! He is such a reflective, deep little guy, and you can really see that in this series of pictures...

Colton Sylvester

2008-12-07T18:01:00.000-08:00

Here he is! The long awaited little guy :)

Colton is one of the cutest newborn babies I have ever seen, I LOVE him to death, just like the rest of the Sylvester family :)

Enjoy the pictures!

I just love this picture, because all of the boys faces look so peaceful, and then there is Colton screaming his little head off :)

Opening Day at Wisp

2008-11-29T09:43:00.000-08:00

I went snowboarding yesterday, and it was suuuuuuch a blast! I brought my camera out on the slopes and took a couple shots so enjoy!

Daniel Josiah Groveman

2008-11-26T15:25:00.000-08:00

My brother and I went out today to get some shots for his music. He is a very talented writer, and I am a huge fan of his songs. He wrote this one song called Wildfires, and I listened to it over and over and over. I still listen to it every day, it is on my top ten favorite songs. I am going to try to figure out how I can put it on here so you all can hear it!

I love you Dan! Hope you like these shots! :)

The Kim Family

2008-11-24T20:24:00.000-08:00

We scheduled this shoot about a month ago, and we originally had planned to have it at Brookside Gardens. The day of, was very bitter cold outside, so we quickly changed our minds. We decided to stick around my house, and try to get some cool inside shots, and run outside every once in a while to get some better outdoor light.

Thanks for being such good clients and braving the cold! :)

Ricky and Jenn Alcantar

2008-11-16T22:10:00.000-08:00

On Saturday I had the privilege of shooting one of my good friend's weddings. We (Jenn and I) have been in the same care group for three years, and have shared so many memories together. I just had to get a picture with the bride, because not only was she getting married, but she is also moving to Texas with her new husband!

I love you Jenn, I am so excited and happy for you and Ricky and your new life together, and I was privileged to be able to shoot your wedding! :) I will miss you sooooo much, you have no idea. LOVE YOU!!!

Enjoy the pictures!!

Diiiip her Ricky!

Christmas Lights! ;)

Reflection...can you find it?

Preparation Time!

Jenn's bouquet, so pretty!

Kate peaking through a locked door :)

one of the groomsmen had this sticker for ricky on his shoe...representing!

the guys wanted to pose in front of this dumpster. guys will be guys....

they had some awesome shoes...

almost a married man

sooooo beautiful!!!!

Ricky's face when Jenn was walking down the aisle :)

my beautiful sister!

soooo pretty!

So awesome, they were tearing up the dance floor :)

Bridal Shot Preview....

2008-11-09T18:47:00.000-08:00

Derbez Family

2008-11-02T19:24:00.000-08:00

You guys were soo fun to shoot! You all were seriously entertaining, and fun to be with. Hope you enjoy the pictures! :)

Once again, I am sorry that the pictures are cut off....still need to figure out whats wrong with my site!

loves those leaves!
what a cutie. seriously look at those eyes.

love her face in this one!
awwwwwww!!!!

she looks like her mommy!! :)

love how they have the same expressions on their faces....

Happy Birthday MOM!!!!!!!!

2008-10-27T07:08:00.000-07:00

Where do I start? This morning I woke up, and read the day by day calendar of Bible verses that my mom has in our kitchen. It usually

has an inspiring quote followed by a verse that is related. Here is what it said....

"What a few words can't say, a lifetime of action can."

"Let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth."

1 John 3:18

Mom, I believe it was God's plan to have this verse fall on the day of your birthday, so it would encourage you! This exemplifies your life. Day after day, month after month, year after year, you have faithfully loved us in deed, by homeschooling

us, driving us all over for sports and music practices, faithfully cooking dinner every night, caring for us when we were sick, and on top of that you had seven of us! Having a nannying job, I get a small taste of how much you sacrificed for us.

Day after day, month after month, year after year, you have faithfully loved us in truth. Memorizing Scripture every morning, breakfast devotionals, waking up in the morning to worship music blasting, and PRAYER. If i could think of one spiritual quality in your life that stands out like a sharp tack it would be that you are a woman of prayer. Consistently you are asking me ways that you can be praying for me, and the best thing is I know that you will pray for sure! I think of all your spiritual qualities, and prayer is the one I most desire to emulate, because it really shows a heart of humility, knowing that NOTHING we do is apart from God, all we have is from His hand. I also so appreciate your heart for your co-workers, and the little children that you love and care for. The fact that you work at a center for severely autistic kids, after a lifetime of homeschooling and raising seven children is AMAZING.

God is going to richly bless you for all that you have poured into them, and you are showing them His love, each day you go into work. Mom, you are one of my best friends, and you have been consistently since I was very young, in love with Jesus and wanting others to experience His love. I want to be like you, if I even reach half of what you are, I will consider myself blessed. I love you!

P. S. This music is Bob Dylan, my mom's all time favorite singer, besides Celine Dion of course ;)

Mom and my little nephew Quinn :)

They were both wearing camo pants it was perfect! wasn't planned!

Sylvester Family!

2008-10-25T12:35:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of shooting the family I nanny for the other day. They are like my second family, and Heather the only girl in the fam, is way outnumbered by the 'men' :) She is pregnant with her fourth son, and is due in November. I can't wait to meet the new little guy! I LOVE you guys! Enjoy the pictures, which I was finally able to post ;) I apologize for how the pictures are cut off...I am having some problems with blogger :/

Cam man. what a cutie!!
Isn't she beauuutiful??
Nate giving Mommy lots of loving

i love them so much.

future little heartbreakers...

the dawn of a new day :)

Britney

2008-10-19T19:38:00.001-07:00

We did this photo shoot in Washington DC! It is quite a challenge trying to get pictures without other people in them in touristy places, but it turned out working for our good!

I had so much fun with you Britney, thanks for your heart for the Lord. This song that is playing in the background was a special request by Britney herself. I had no idea what song she was talking about when she told me the name, but after listening to the song, I think it very much reveals Britney's heart and love for the Lord. Thanks for the example you are, girl!

I like this one, because of the people:) I like how they are looking up at the monument, oblivious of the photo shoot..

Pink, Britney actually thought of this photo :)

The Davidson Family

2008-10-11T17:25:00.000-07:00

What a fun family! I had so much fun with you guys today, enjoy the pictures!!! :)

I just love this one...it reminds me of a Norman Rockwell painting :) he was a great little boy the whole time, except for this one point ;)

Africa 2009'

2008-10-05T20:55:00.000-07:00

So, I officially have the awesome privilege of going back to Uganda this year with a team of about 25 people! We will be going to minister to the church out there, as well as sharing the Gospel throughout the villages. We are hosting a youth camp for the young people there as well. The faith, and desire to know more about God that the people have, is inspiring. Some of them last year, walked for more then two days to attend this conference. Praise God that we get to be a part of increasing their love and passion for Jesus!

The reason I am putting these pictures up, is because I am selling them to try to earn the money I need for the trip. My dream and desire for the future, as a photographer is to take pictures for mission fields, and somehow through pictures to give people here in the United States, more of a desire to give and support people of other nations. Also, I want to capture somehow the emotions and feelings they have, through a snapshot.

So I am asking you. If you read this blog, and you have a desire to help by buying a photo, email me and I will give you the prices. Our trip leaves the beginning of January, so the sooner you buy the pictures the better! I have numbered each one, so that you can tell me which one you want! Now, even if you can't buy a big picture, EVERY LITTLE BIT helps, and all of the proceeds from these sales will go towards Uganda. If you live in another state, thats ok, I can still send you pictures in the mail, just send me your home address!

My email is Chavia@gmail.com

Thanks so much for taking the time to read this, and if you can't afford a picture, please keep our team in your thoughts and prayers as we go!

How often do you get to invest in ETERNITY, through buying a picture?? :)

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Robert and Maggie Campbell

2008-09-23T08:58:00.000-07:00

My brother and I got to travel to Texas to shoot this wonderful couple's wedding. Congratulations to you guys! I am glad we could shoot your wedding! Here are a few shots from the day.

Maggie's Bridal Shots

2008-09-22T10:44:00.001-07:00

I always love it when the bride wants to take bridal pictures. In a way there is a very mystical aspect to a girl in a wedding dress, especially on the day of her wedding. There is a special glow that the bride always has, when she is about to marry the love of her life! The scenery in Texas was AWESOME. I thoroughly enjoyed the new surroundings, and tried to capture it the best I could. Enjoy some of these bridal shots, and check back for more pictures later on, of the wedding day!

Coming Soon...

2008-09-20T23:56:00.001-07:00

Sylvester Boys

2008-08-26T12:53:00.000-07:00

Today was a fun day in the Sylvester house. I came to the house at the usual time, and Gigi (their grandma) says...got any plans for today? Our usual tradition is to go to the pool, or the park or something outside, or having to do with sports. We can't ever let the summer weather go to waste :) Today was different though, because next week all of them go back to school, and the busy life of preschoolers, and kindergartners will start. We only have a few more precious days where we will all be together during the day.

Naturally I thought of a photo shoot. We all got in the car and headed out to the "country." Naturally I blasted the country music, and then followed that we rolled all the windows down, including the sun roof. The kids LOVE country music. They have been trained well. ;)

Tyler just turned six years old, and is going into kindergarten at Covenant Life. He is soo excited about it. I appreciate your sweet spirit buddy, and I know God has big plans for your life!

Nate...how much you have grown in the past three years! I appreciate your sense of humor and your hugs, how you love to be outside and play:) My kind of boy!

Cam Man! Cam is hilarious...can't you tell with that face?? He keeps us all laughing, and he LOVES sunglasses. Did I mention he won't go any

where without them?

I let the kids take some pictures with my camera, and they actually turned out really good! Tyler took this one of Nate, and I LOVE it! Nate took the one below of Ty and I. Tyler has told me several times that he wants to marry me...I told him I'm a little old for him. We'll see what he thinks about that when he is in high school and too cool for me :)

I took them to Mcdonald's after the photo shoot, because they were so good! I love my buddies...they are seriously like my brothers now, after nannying for them for almost three years.

Eric and Hyun

2008-08-17T13:28:00.000-07:00

My brother and I shot a wedding on Saturday, and it was unique in the sense that the bride was the first one in her family getting married. Needless to say, there was much excitement and anticipation! Eric and Hyun, I wish you guys the best in your new life together! The first shot below, I just couldn't decide which one I liked better so I put them both up :) Enjoy the pictures!

Jessica Almonte

2008-08-15T17:41:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of taking pictures of another one of my friends from Outback today! Jessica is going to be interning with a magazine and needed pictures for her portfolio. I had fun with ya today girl! Thanks for being willing to do whatever I asked, even if it meant lying in the street;)

Katherinne Sepulveda Barrera

2008-07-16T17:24:00.000-07:00

I did a photo shoot with one of my good friends from work this afternoon. We met each other a couple years ago, through working together. She left for Chile, and we lost touch for a while and now that she is back its back to the good old times:)

Katherinne, I so appreciate your friendship, and I know God had us be friends for a reason. I will miss you, when you go back to Chile, and I am praying you move back! ;)

Lazy Summer Days

2008-07-09T08:11:00.000-07:00

Wells in UGANDA!

2008-07-07T12:35:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to tell you all the good news that after six months of fund raising, Sovereign Grace has raised enough money for these precious children in Uganda to have a well in the village.

I am so excited to see how the Lord is going to use these precious children for His kingdom.

I had the unique privilege in January to go serve these people. I will never experience anything like it ever again. My hope is to go back there again this year, Lord willing.

Wedding from back in June

2008-07-06T14:26:00.000-07:00

I shot a wedding about a month ago with Kristen

Check em out!

Family Photo Shoot

2008-06-21T20:22:00.000-07:00

Family Shoots are my favorite. Enjoy these pictures in high resolution!

New Attitude Lovebirds

2008-06-01T20:01:00.000-07:00

This couch is where it all began. Danny and Reema met each other exactly a year ago at the last New Attitude conference, and how fitting that they chose to have their engagement photo session there!

Can't wait to shoot your wedding in August! You guys are awesome!

MY NEPHEW!!!

2008-05-18T16:54:00.000-07:00

This is a post just to show off my cute little nephew, Quinn. Seems like every day he changes and gets cuter and cuter. This little boy LOVES wires and cords and oh yes, he loves hats. He has huge dimples when he smiles, you are pretty much guaranteed a smile if you play peek a boo with him. I love my little nephew sooo much! He is already a Nationals fan as you can see:)

Oook right about now your probably wondering why I have the random Indiana Jones music playing. Israel, my brother and Quinn's daddy LOVES the Indiana Jones series of movies. I came home today to Quinn holding and chewing on a special Indiana Jones spoon that came in the cereal box. Like father, like son!

Kaylie Joy Zaal

2008-05-13T19:34:00.000-07:00

The newest addition to the Zaal family. CONGRATULATIONS you two! Love you guys:)

Will and Alycia Engagement Shoot!

2008-05-04T19:20:00.000-07:00

My sister Alycia is one of the people that I look up to the most in my life. I took her engagement pictures today, and what a cool thing it was! She has honored the Lord with her life and has kept herself pure for many years, trusted Him with her life and surrendered everything including marriage to His hands. She is going to get married in June and her husband to be, Will is the lucky guy:) Will, I appreciate how you make us all laugh, and your love for the Lord is evident in your life. I am sooooooo happy for you guys! Love you!