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Being Inspired

February 12, 2015

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GAAAH!!! THESE BEAUTIFUL IMAGES FROM THE SHOOT & SHARE CONTEST

I just recently entered this contest, as did many of my other photographer friends. We could each enter 40 images into many different categories. People from all over the world have entered and just the other week they  let us vote. We don’t know the photographer behind the photo, but can only see the image which is the BEST WAY TO GO. From like 9:30a.m. to 1:00p.m. I had to finally cut myself off the day voting began. I was on and off voting- taking lunch breaks, bathroom breaks, stretch breaks, lol. I then realized we had until March to vote (sigh of relief).

I realized something- I was hooked. Not so much on voting (well kinda) but on seeing the BEAUTIFUL images. I sometimes get so consumed in my work that I don’t embrace others but in embracing other’s work I feel like there are some rules live by :

Be Inspired- Not Envious

Be Inspired- Not A Copycat

These are things I tell myself because, I’ll flat out admit it, I’ve been there. I’ve copied, I’ve been jealous and ya know what? It didn’t do me any good. The times I have tried to edit like someone else….I ended up coming back to how I like to edit and thats great!!! It means I’m beginning to find my style!!  I think I’m starting to discover my voice in this industry and its awesome!

There are so many AMAZINGLY, SKILLED photographers around me I’m seriously in awww of their work. I have to remember something- we are all at different places in our journey as artists.  You can’t compare your beginning with someone else’s middle. Being jealous of someone’s work only does damage to who you are as a person, and an artist. God gave SOOOO many of us gifts in art/photography so I say why not embrace it? Being someone’s cheerleader is a much better feeling then comparison.

So to all of these ROCK’N photographers in this contest- I’m blown away. Whether I am staring at the computer for five minutes voting, or three hours, I want to run, grab my camera, and shoot!!! You guys inspire me. Thank you!!!

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HI SUNSHINE!

I'M NICKI

I see the beauty in imperfect things. As a Christ-follower, faith is central to my life, work, and connections. I am fueled by joy, known for my bubbly and sunny disposition, and always with a warm hug. Imperfect beauty inspires my love for all things vintage, abstract art, and real love stories. I love moments full of grit and emotion; life off the beaten path; stunning views along the shore; and the juxtaposition of New York grunge and laid back Cali-vibe. 

As a mother of two, I am very familiar with how quickly life’s most important moments fly by too quickly. I will calmly and seamlessly guide you through frames that will endure. I strive to capture your memories with one-of-a-kind images full of meaning. I cannot wait to connect with you! 

I bring all of these elements to my time with my couples. With over a decade of experience in the industry, I know how to gently guide you through poses that are natural and beautiful. The transition into this sentence doesn’t make sense. Throughout your day, you will feel the love from those there to celebrate
 you two. 
When I’m not photographing weddings, I enjoy long walks in the neighborhood with my husband, my kiddos Tuxie and Sunny, and my labradoodle Hokie.. Also, I am a huge dog-lover! I’m pretty sure heaven is full of dogs. I can’t wait to connect with you, and yes, your pup is always welcome here! 

RICHMOND & CHARlottesville WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

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