Meet Kat and Tad! These two are geeks after my own heart, and extremely talented cosplayers. In fact, Tad proposed to Kat while the pair were cosplaying Flynn Rider and Rapunzel. The photos are as adorable as you imagine, and obviously she said yes.
To celebrate the recent purchase of their new home, they decided to book a portrait session with their kitty, Binx. Yes Binx. As in Thackery. Dost thou comprehend?
Naturally, geeky details abound in their home. I was delighted to see a sword display on a beautifully stenciled wall. Fantasy maps of Equestria and the Four Nations from Avatar the Last Airbender were mixed in with various cosplay photos and a Lord of the Rings clock. Be still, my nerdy little heart.
You might notice a couple of additional details in Tad’s outfit. I spy with my little eye a darling bronze fox pin and a matching tiny arrow on the boutonniere. And peep the adorable fox socks. Together, all these lovely details are a cheeky little nod to Disney’s Robin Hood.
Without further waffling on my part, check out their gorgeous photos!
Mary and Jourdan: A North Georgia Wedding
Mary and Jourdan tied the knot in a festive, Christmas-themed wedding at Juliette Chapel in Dahlonega, GA.
This darling venue was all decked out in wreaths, pinecones, and touches of gold, making for a cozy, charming backdrop for the couple to exchange vows.
I was deeply honored to be part of this celebration, as I’ve known Mary for several years. We’ve been on the same GISH team several times, and while GISH itself is no more, the spirit of GISH will forever live on in the friendships that were built fulfilling all the zany tasks set forth by our benevolent-yet-almost-certainly-mad leader, Misha Collins. If you know, you know.
Congratulations, Mary and Jourdan! And thank you for choosing me to be a part of your big day.
Of Mushrooms and Llamas
Sometimes, I get so caught up in client sessions that I forget to take on creative projects just for fun. Don’t get me wrong. I LOVE weddings and portraits, but variety is the spice of life isn’t it?
Well, it doesn’t get much more creative than a mushroom cosplay session at a gorgeous house with LLAMAS IN COSTUME. This delightful foray into whimsy was hosted by the talented and lovely Victoria of The Phaneron Fae. She made most of these amazing mushroom hats and costumes!
We kicked off the shoot indoors while everyone was still putting the final touches on costuming and makeup. I loved that each mushroom had a distinct vibe and character, and, thanks to all the talented models, I think it really came through in the photos. We were all having a really great time with this shoot, just vibing really.
And then the llamas arrived.
The squeal I squealed when I witnessed the majestic fluffy goodness that was Pie as he alighted from the van was only rivaled by the follow-up squeal upon seeing his friend Briar. I was the heart-eyes emoji personified.
But consummate professional that I am, I refrained from launching myself at the llamas and resumed the shoot.
Without further ado, here is but a small sampling of the photos I snapped that day.
Credit:
Phaneron Fae: Victoria
Red Mushroom: Erin
Orange Mushroom: Courtney
Yellow Mushroom: Michelle
Green Mushroom: Cassandra
Blue Mushroom: Aaron
Purple Mushroom: Autumn
Pink Mushroom: Alexandria
Llamas: Wit’s End Llama Consortium
Hunter and Kyle: An Atlanta Wedding
On October 22nd, 2022, Hunter and Kyle tied the knot at the beautiful Dunwoody Nature Center in Atlanta, Georgia. Surrounded by jewel-toned florals under a hexagonal gold arch, Hunter and Kyle exchanged vows in a romantic outdoor ceremony.
I think the bridesmaids' velvet gowns may be my favorite to date. The varied autumnal colors perfectly matched the fall theme, like the changing leaves in the trees.
Hunter and Kyle looked absolutely amazing, of course. Their love for each other was palpable, and it was an absolute joy to witness their union. The reception was filled with laughter and a surprise, choreographed performance, as friends and family celebrated the newlyweds.
Congratulations, Hunter and Kyle!
Ten Years in Love: A Blue Ridge Anniversary Session
10 years of marriage is definitely something to celebrate, and that’s what this sweet couple decided to do with an autumnal anniversary session in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
I absolutely loved Jennifer’s gown and how it contrasted beautifully with the orange leaves. We were treated to an unseasonably warm day and the most gorgeous sunlight filtering through the trees.
Congratulations on this marriage milestone! Here’s to many, many more.
Fall Bridal Session
It may still be eighty degrees outside by noon, but we’re starting to get just the slightest hint of chill in the mornings here in Georgia. And honestly? That’s enough for me to consider it well and truly fall. Bring on the crunchy leaves and sweater weather. I will join my basic-bitches-in-arms and embrace chunky knits and flannel.
I draw the line at pumpkin spice, though. Apple > Pumpkin. Fight me.
But I digress. In celebration of all things autumn, I’d love to share this gorgeous bridal session from 2018 that I never got around to sharing! Better late than never?
Anyway, enjoy this deliciously boho Reclamation gown in scenic North Georgia and dream of cooler days to come.
Model: SoYun
Gown: Reclamation
Jaleesa and Miranda: An Atlanta Engagement
Happy Pride weekend, Atlanta!!
I’m so excited to share Jaleesa and Miranda’s engagement session at the gorgeous Atlanta History Center. I love this location so, so much. The gardens are spectacular, and the historic Swan House is the cherry on top.
We spent their session getting to know each other and cracking jokes and having a great time, and they just radiated chemistry and joy.
I cannot wait to photograph their wedding at the Wimbish House in midtown Atlanta next year!
In the meantime, here are some of my favorite shots and a cute little GIF.
Congrats again to you both!
Location: Atlanta History Center
Haley and Bradley: An Atlanta Engagement Session
I love engagement sessions at Piedmont Park. It’s such a quintessential part of Atlanta, and it even has a pretty view of the Midtown skyline.
So when Haley and Bradley reached out to schedule their session and asked to stick close to the Old Fourth Ward area, I was pretty stoked!
Haley was an absolute trooper walking all over the park in high heels, and passersby were happy to share well wishes with the nearlyweds. In fact, we kicked off the session to an enthusiastic shout of “BEAUTIFUL!” from a cyclist as he whizzed past.
I cannot WAIT to photograph their gorgeous Wimbish House wedding in April. Congratulations, you two!
Hunter and Kyle: An Atlanta Engagement Session
I’m nosy. Like, really nosy.
Always have been and probably always will be. I get it from my mother’s side; she’s all about the “chisme.”
Anywho, every time I meet a new couple, usually at their engagement session, I HAVE to get their proposal story. And y’all…Hunter and Kyle might have the cutest one yet.
I’ll be the first to admit that I’m more of a glamper than a camper, but their adorable camping proposal story was absolutely perfect, down to a really cool DIY ring box hand made by Kyle himself.
Congratulations on the engagement, you two! I can’t wait to photograph your wedding next month.
Tristan: An Atlanta Birthday Portrait Session
Turning sixteen is such a momentous occasion! I was excited to hear that Tristan wanted to celebrate this milestone with a photo shoot at one of the most glamorous Atlanta locations.
The Atlanta History Center is an absolutely gorgeous spot, and we got started with a dreamy floral gown in the Goizueta Garden. As someone who struggles to keep a humble pothos alive, I’m always in awe of beautifully manicured gardens like this one, chock full of gorgeous blooms even in a sweltering Georgia summer.
We wrapped up in the gardens, and it was time for an outfit change before heading to the Atlanta History Center’s crown jewel: The Swan House.
This historic mansion boasts a gorgeous fountain flanked by sprawling steps, and Tristan looked absolutely stunning in her black floor-length gown.
But why take my word for it! Check out the session below!
Venue: Atlanta History Center
Hermione: A North Georgia Maternity Session
This darling mama-to-be was pawsitively radiant during her North Georgia maternity session.
At her initial consult, she let me know she was partial to wildflowers, boho vibes, and belly scratches. I was only too happy to oblige!
Can you believe how amazing she looks considering her due date is THIS WEEK?!
Congratulations, Hermione! I can’t wait to meet your babies.
Michael and Quinn: An Atlanta Wedding
Remember these two cuties from their engagement session last year?
Well, these two dapper grooms just exchanged vows and said “I do” at The Wimbish House in midtown Atlanta! This glamorous historic venue was decked out in burgundy and navy for the celebration, and DIY details throughout the house added a personal touch to the decor that really reflected Michael and Quinn’s personalities.
After a wholly unsuccessful trek to the Midtown letters (which I’d hyped up at their engagement session, unaware that they’d been removed), we ended up taking a few photos at Colony Square before deciding to return to the classic white sandstone beauty of the Wimbish House for more portraits.
As far as venues go, The Wimbish House is special. She has such a beautiful, quiet elegance amid the hustle and bustle of Atlanta. And she’s in fantastic shape for being 116!
In any case, her stately 1920s ballroom was the perfect place for Michael and Quinn to celebrate their union, and I’m thrilled I got to share in their big day! Congratulations again to you both!
Venue: The Wimbish House
Catering: Fox Brothers Barbecue
Madeleine and Ralph: A North Carolina Wedding
You may remember Madeleine and Ralph from their cozy engagement session at home.
Well, I’m pleased to share that they recently tied the knot at a gorgeous little alpaca farm in the North Carolina mountains. Yes, you read that right. ALPACAS!
The weather kept us guessing ‘til the last minute, but luckily the rain stopped long enough for the outdoor ceremony and some gorgeous mountaintop photos afterward.
Congratulations again, you two!
Venue: Hawkesdene
Mary and Jourdan: An Arabia Mountain Engagement Session
I’ve known Mary for a few years now! She’s been a member of Lady Geeks of Atlanta, a social group I started back in 2015 for fellow geeky folks in the Atlanta area (yes, this IS a shameless plug), and we’ve been on the same GISH team a few times. If you’ve not heard of GISH, you are definitely missing out on a good time for a good cause, and I encourage you to check it out!
Anywho!
I was excited and flattered when Mary reached out not long after I saw her share a video of Jourdan’s proposal video on her Facebook!
After a little planning, we decided on Arabia Mountain for their autumnal engagement session with their sweet pup and kitty. A big “Thank you!” to our official animal-wrangler Sarah.
Congrats on the engagement, you two! Can’t wait for the big day!!!
Sandra and Joe: A Dahlonega Wedding
You may remember Sandra and Joe from their dreamy waterfall engagement session in July.
Their wedding was every bit as dreamy, with gorgeous mountain views, a spectacular sunset, and two of the cutest ring bearers I’ve ever seen.
The ceremony, officiated by their good friend, centered around their love story, and they exchanged the sweetest, most heartfelt vows. Happy tears flowed freely, and I was delighted to be a part of such a beautiful celebration of a love that flourished in a time of pandemic uncertainty.
I’m so excited to share this sneak peek from their day.
Congratulations, Sandra and Joe!
Today is Indigenous Peoples Day, and I thought it was important to address a recurring issue in the photography community.
In recent years, it seems that “tipi sessions” have become increasingly popular. You know the ones. A chubby-cheeked cherub seated in front of a tipi-style tent, sometimes bedecked with flowers or lace or [insert cheesy decor item here].
We’ve also seen the rise in popularity of the feather headdress, both in the photography world and in the music festival circuit.
The trouble with both these elements is that they appropriate indigenous culture.
I know my platform is small, but I felt it necessary to share this information and these resources so that my fellow photographers and our clients can educate themselves on the harm that is caused by cultural appropriation in tipi sessions and by using feather headdresses in photo shoots.
Starglass Photography will not participate in any photoshoots depicting cultural appropriation. I will, however, strive to honor all cultures and capture their unique beauty on camera when called to do so.
Barnyard Bridal: An Anne of Green Gables Inspired Session
Every once in a while, I start a project that’s just for me, something to feed my soul and keep my creative fires burning.
Anyone that knows me knows that I’m a sucker for anything vintage or antique. I am powerless to resist the nostalgic allure of a bygone era. So it should really come as no surprise that I impulsively bought a beautiful 1970s Gunne Sax gown several sizes too small for me to actually wear. I couldn’t help it! It was just so pretty, and it was practically screaming for a photoshoot.
Time passed, and the gown hung in my closet while I tried to dream up a photoshoot concept. Initially, I had grand visions of a stately Victorian home, lush peonies, and a classic cake. But the longer I waffled on the details, the more daunting the project became. Months turned into a year, life happened, and still, the gown hung unused in my closet.
One year turned into two, and I found myself deep in the throes of a creative rut. I felt stuck and uninspired. And then…then I remembered the dress. I reached out to two very talented women and asked if they could help me bring my vision to life. I decided to keep it simple, and dispensed with the grandiose ideas I had started with. A vintage ladder, some baby’s breath, and some of my very own barnyard critters and boom….we made MAGIC.
Model: Adeline Troutman
Make-up: The Vanity House
With guest appearances by Sokka the dog, Cheese the duck, Cassiopeia the goat, and Torvi the chicken.
Aaaand a bonus shot of Adeline enjoying the goats because, and I quote, “I want a shot SURROUNDED by goats!” Wish granted. =)
Sandra and Joe: A Waterfall Engagement Session
Although I’ve lived in Georgia for about 19 years, I find the state still manages to surprise me with hidden gems. Three weeks ago, I was delighted to find that this cute little waterfall is located a mere 30 minutes away from where I live now.
When Sandra and Joe mentioned they loved the waterfall shots in my portfolio, I knew this would be the perfect spot for their engagement session. The day arrived, and we all met at the falls bright and early to beat the promised rain.
Now, it’s not every couple that is willing to dirty or wet, but Sandra and Joe were totally up for it! Their photos turned out every bit as dreamy as I’d hoped. Congratulations to you both! I can’t wait to photograph your wedding in October.
Michael and Quinn: An Atlanta Engagement Session
I love engagement sessions because they offer the opportunity for me to meet my couples in person in a relaxed, casual environment, free from the restrictions of wedding day timelines. It’s also the perfect way for couples to get to know me a little bit, so I’m not some random stranger that shows up to their wedding shoving a camera in their faces.
I was delighted to spend some time with Michael and Quinn during their Atlanta engagement session a couple of weeks ago. Together, we braved the unrelenting Georgia humidity and swarms of bloodthirsty mosquitoes to get these sweet photos. They indulged my barrage of questions about wedding colors and their proposal story and their cats. What can I say? I like to get to know my couples before their big day!
I can’t wait to see them again in 2022 for their Wimbish House wedding. Congratulations on your engagement, you two!
Anna: A Marietta Graduation Session
Anna reached out to me to celebrate her hard-earned college degree with a fabulous photoshoot! I was thrilled she chose me to showcase her confidence and hard work, and we quickly decided on a date and location.
After our original date was rained out (and when I say rain, I mean TORRENTIAL RAIN), we ended up rescheduling to a much sunnier day. And what a beautiful day it was!
She was a very good sport and allowed me to drag her all over Marietta in the muggy Georgia summer heat. When I asked her for a power stance, she gave me all the Gal Gadot Wonder Woman vibes, and a well-timed breeze added to the super-heroine look. I’m so excited to share some of my favorite shots from her session!
Con-GRAD-ulations, Anna!
I wish you all the best in your career!
