A&L - August 4th, 2018

When my parents were married it was tradition to tell the local newspaper of the event. Many times engagements would also be announced to the world via newspaper. And sometimes if you were fortunate enough the local paper would send someone to document your wedding and write a little tale. It reminds me of the movie "27 Dresses" where many of the brides coveted the documentation of their big day. 

Today I've realized many weddings are documented and talked about but in very different ways. I can admit, I do not receive the local paper. So it may be that weddings still get covered by the paper, I just haven't noticed it. What I have noticed is how much of a role photographers play in weddings. 

A photographer has the opportunity to spend the majority of the day with a person, their closest family and friends on one of the biggest days of their lives. I realize that as a photographer I have played an intricate role in many people's weddings. I have viewed moments first hand and been able to capture them that some people's closest family and friends will only see in photos. In addition I have the opportunity of writing about my experience from an observer's standpoint who was there just to notice every little detail.
What an honor!

A week ago I was incredibly fortunate to spend my Saturday with A & L and their families. From the salon to getting ready at the church, all the way to dancing the night away. The day was filled with so many beautiful moments, laughter, minimal stress, much joy, and a whole lot of love.

The ceremony was beautifully done. L had picked a gorgeous floral print bridesmaid dress that looked fabulous on all of the bridesmaids. It was a great pick for the heat of the day, and for post wedding use as well! Decor was simple and elegant with greenery and candles. 

Following the ceremony during family photo time the groomsmen stepped up to the plate and assisted with bringing great smiles to everyone's face. How did this happen you might ask? The all got in a line and sang 'Baby Shark'. This may be added to my wedding photographer back pocket of tricks when I need to get kids' attention again.

The bridal party then took a detour on the way to the reception and grabbed some ice cream. Another great idea for a wedding day! It made me thankful that there are still a few people in my family to marry off that I can share these tips with.

The reception was held outdoors, under a tent and bistro lighting. There were lawn games and many quaint seating areas spread around, a little bit of something for everyone. So many things stood out making it such a great gathering. I would have to say the glamour potties were one of the coolest things I have seen. They are porta-poties but built into a trailer complete with air conditioning and nice furnishings. I definitely recommend these for events. 

Hugh, the DJ, did a fabulous job of connecting with me when it came to the order of events, where everything would be taking place so I could get the best shot, etc. This was amazing! It reiterates what I learned many years ago, communication is the key to happiness! (maybe not the only key but a very big key). The evening progressed with delicious ribs, touching speeches and dancing. Words can only touch on the love that flowed in all of these things. I documented, and as I have gone through and edited I have been able to relive these moments. I see the looks shared between everyone, pure love and joy.

I left the party feeling so blessed to have been a part of it all. Getting to see it progress over the entire day. I was reminded of why I love getting to do what I do. Even if every dress were the same, all decorations were alike and every photo was posed the same way, every wedding would still remain completely different. The people make it. Each unique relationship brings something special to the day. And there is just something about gathering all of your favorite people together into one place at one time that makes the planning and stress completely worth it. 

A&L may your years ahead be filled with more beauty and joy than you could ever imagine and all of those people who love you so dearly! Thanks for letting me take part in your big day!

Self Portraits

These days it is easier said than done to get out and take photos. Yesterday I listened to a webinar on photography tips. I've also been pouring over photos from various artists and freelancers on Instagram. It was inspiring to see so many good photos making their way around the world. 

Today I wanted to go take some self portraits, not only because I wanted to try out new tricks with portraits but also because my child and husband get very tired of being my models all the time.
The day began as usual, I make a wonderful list of all of the things I would like to accomplish in the day. Since having the baby I have found that I make the list shorter and shorter so I don't set myself up for failure... I was going to get the baby down for a nap then get all ready and run outside and take some photos.
Of course it never goes the way you imagine it all to work out. The baby didn't sleep so I had to pack him up and bring him along.

I am so blessed to be able to live where I do. The fresh snow and magnificent trees worked amazingly as a back drop. Not to mention, the snow was a perfect natural reflector!
There were more failed attempts that successful shots. We are our biggest critics. I didn't like the poses, or my expressions. Then there was the whole issue with my focal point and getting that spot on while running back and forth on 10 sec. timer.
The best thing about the day, I got out and made it happen!
When looking at the photos I was reminded that I am a good photographer. I am pleased with my work.
Some days I get so discouraged that I'm not good enough and everyone else is so much better. So today, though a struggle with my scheduling not going the way I wanted it to, was a good day.
I am thankful. I am blessed.
May your day be just as blessed! 

This past summer I was able to get a wedding shoot in around the baby being born. It was a very fun and eventful summer. Here are a few shots of the wedding. It was a beautiful day and a fun group of people to work with. I had the joy of having my sister as my assistant and we were able to capture some great moments. Enjoy! 

Today I find myself singing the High School Musical song, "Something New". It's the start of something new... 

I cannot say that I am proud that I have most of that song memorized but that's the way it goes. 

I have finally created a website for my photography business and an Instagram account to boot! You could say that I am getting serious about spreading the word. It is quite a feat to accomplish these seemingly simple tasks with a little one. 

My website can be found at: http://mhulsphoto.wixsite.com/photo

There may be some photos up that you haven't seen yet so check it out! 

My Instagram account is @maggiehulsphotography

Feeling accomplished today! 

Fall is in the Air

The greatest place to begin any fall season is in the midwest. 

 I adore the old farms and the excessive amount of trees that all have leaves changing to a full spectrum of colors.

Not to mention the flowers and other fall foliage. 

Fall has the crisp mornings and the perfect weather for bonfires and outdoor activities. Oh and the amazing drinks and baked goods! What a great season! 

Aluminum Reflections

The other day I was doing a fairly common task of feeding the dogs. When much to my surprise I was reminded of Edward Weston's green pepper photos. I grabbed my phone and snapped a photo of the great refractions of light and thought I'd share. 

It's those little things in life that make it great. We just need to keep our eyes open, because they come when we least expect it... even when we are feeding the dogs. 

Frosting Days and Unbelievable Sunrises

It's been a frosty winter full of snow and cold weather. With each passing day the desire for me to trade in my front wheel drive car for any four wheel drive vehicle increases. Apart from the snow drifts, icy roads, tire chains, and tow ropes there is beauty beyond compare. It is kind of fun living in a winter wonderland every now and then... 

A small explanation of the above photo: my grandpa's cows like to rub on the barbed wire for a good scratch. Hair gets onto the wire, just like any of our hairbrushes. The cool thing about this is that it looks about three hundred times cooler when it frosts over.