c.h.o.c.o.l.a.t.e

Baby Zoe

2012-01-24T19:04:00.000-08:00

What can I say about this lovely little girl! She is so beloved, it is beyond articulation. She is blessed beyond belief!

Aunty Yinka loves you and looks forward to next time :)
x

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JEREMY!

2012-01-19T06:01:00.000-08:00

A cute little burst of energy who looooves his mama ;), Jeremy just turned two and I was glad to be there to have some lovely cake and be surrounded by loads of cute kids again... you'll love his colorful, cute Korean traditional dress sent by his loving grandparents who live in Korea!

Calling all 2012 Brides a.k.a So you are thinking of having a wedding this year... Pt One

2012-01-18T07:44:00.000-08:00

Hey y'all this one is a little long....oh dear. Please bear with me... :) - smh I realize that I have become one of 'those' people who somehow (very erroneously) believe that putting a smiley face before, in, around, after any and everything magically makes it ok! LOL

Well you will understand why there was need for this tome you're (hopefully) about to read. It's that season, that time again y'all when TV ads are filled with weight loss remedies, programs, drugs and measures to quit smoking, the bottle, food, name it and of course somewhere around all those ads are also the wedding venues ads, the David's Bridal ads, don't forget those...wait a sec, I zoom in on the David's Bridal ads. What could this mean? *having a 'coulda had a V8' moment* - of course silly, this is January and it's the aftermath of the happy engagements that occurred on new year's eve and a precursor to a frenzied wedding season 2012!

So you know, now I'm a bit more interested, excited even, on the edge of my seat (ok maybe not quite but you get the idea...). This is the time when things get to a feverish pitch, everyone is trying to get some frazzled bride on board whatever it is they're selling. At the same time, being in the industry, my email inbox is deluged with emails about various bridal fairs coming up over the next few weeks. Dear Bride, you have to think of your venue, your cake, your flowers, the band, your dress...aaah your dress, you will have to say yes to some dress out there with your name stamped all over it, whispering your name! And while you're at it, sure can't forget your shoes, your favors, your decor, lighting, cake tasting...YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER!! Heck! Your photographer - someone almost forgot about your photographer!!!!

Now, some brides, bless their dear heart will delegate this aspect to the poor groom and while many of you lovely grooms are more than capable and equal to this err herculean task, I just think this is where you both gonna have to just each take one for the team; yep both of you need to be involved in this aspect, afterall, photos are the ONLIEST things you will have left after the cake is eaten, band finally stopped playing, the flowers are dead, the tux is returned, the dress is stashed in some old closet in your mom's house (lol like my sister's dress that I just saw after 5 years in questionable condition in some closet at home (sorry sis heheh). Therefore everything media around the wedding is arguably one of the heavyweights.

All of that said, I do realize not everyone is very 'photographer hiring' savvy - yes some might need a bit of help along the way. To that end, while you mull over the other very important details of your wedding, I figured I'd pass along some unsolicited advice, sorry err, nuggets I have gathered over the last couple of years around the business, about choosing the photographer that is right for you.

Here we go.
1. So, thinking of having a friend shoot the wedding? Ummm, q for you: do you want photos of your wedding?!?? I am just asking because except they're a professional wedding photographer, sorry to break it to ya but your (very well meaning) friend will be a guest 1st and a photographer 2nd and they might miss key moments. Period. Add to that the fact that there might be no contingency plan if there are any mishaps or malfunctions with their gear (again no fault of theirs - after all they are not a pro). Side note to well meaning 'photographer friends' out there: Not to knock your hustle, but if you haven't gone pro yet, then at best be a second shooter and hone your wedding photography skills. All the big hitters started out this way. Yes they did...

2. Decide on and choose (both of you) the style that is right for you. What's your pleasure? Wedding Photojournalism - Unobtrusively capturing real moments as they happen. Traditional - Emphasis on posed pictures, lots of direction. Art/High Fashion - Stylized, studio type photography. Fusion - a mix of two or more styles. Figure out what style of photography you would like, ok fine, at least have an idea :)!

3. Get Referrals! I have found that nothing beats word of mouth. Some of the weddings I shot last year were from word of mouth, referrals from other clients I had worked with, or vendors I worked with. Not that there is anything wrong with finding a photographer off the internet, nothing at all but then you step up your photographer hunting game when you actually have real life live testimonials too...

4. You have gotten your referral but you still want to see for yourself. No worries. Contact the photographer, go to their blog to see their recent work, check out their portfolio to see if their style works for you! Viewing their work needs to evoke some emotional response; are you smiling, feel like you were a part of the moments the photos are presenting, ok so maybe not feel anything earth shattering, but you must have some sort of sentimental reaction to their work.

5. So you have pored through tons of blogs, websites, portfolios, it is all looking like a blur. There are soo many lovely wonderfully talented photogs out there! Geesh what to do? Strive to narrow down your search to the top 5 blogs/websites and find out starting package rates, lol now that always puts things in proper perspective :)

6. You checked prices, terms, rates, and all the blah sorry, fun stuff and narrowed down to at least two that fit your style and budget. Next thing is to contact them and let them know you are interested in their work for your wedding. Do it fast. Run , don't walk to your email/phone. I say this because it would suck if your photog of choice doesn't have your date available because just 4 hrs before you decided to stop putting it off one snazzy bride already snagged your date complete with a retainer to keep the photog on lock...oh snap.

7. Anyway you were lucky and they had your date open. What next? Call them, talk to them, and if time and space allows, have coffee with them. Any photog worth their salt would not gawk at the opportunity to meet a prospective bride even if she is still shopping around. I know I wouldn't. Get to feel them out, their style, do you click on a personal level? I mean not like you must 'bond' with your photog like something out of a scene from a daytime soap opera but it is important to feel comfortable with this person. Why? Well, would you want this person in the room when you're stressed out, frazzled, or nervous? Would you care if they were there to witness a mini bridezilla moment or meltdown (jes sayin)? You have to feel comfortable enough to allow this person all access to your most private moments, I mean this person will probably be the only one in the room while you're down to your skivvies who doesn't know you from grade school:). Also while you have them on the phone or in front of you, now is the time for the questions you always had but were afraid to ask! While it aint supposed to be the Spanish inquisition or nothin' like that, you are thinking about signing a check with three zeros on the end (oh I hear its four for some rock star photos, my bad lol); they owe you an interview at least. Also feel free to share about your wedding, your vision, what you are looking for, the kinds of shots that interest and intrigue you, how you met your fiance, etc. Get the photog excited because the more they learn about you, the more invested they will be on your wedding day and the better they can deliver! Trust me, I know. Couple of years back I was at a wedding and when we vendors were sent to our little vendor dinner room (fun fun :)), we were all talking about how lovely the day was going and someone asked the videographer a question, I don't remember what, but all I know is his response made me almost gag- he said "...oh I don't know them or what their deal is, all I know they got a good deal so they hired me..." Oh dear. Could he have been more impersonal?! I wondered if it was him or the couple (he seemed like a meatloaf so I decided it was him lol). See, not to 'overemotionalize' things, but this here, your life's most memorable day, is more than just hiring someone. Get each and every of your vendors invested in your day by sharing with them your wedding day vision and some of your background.

8. Prices, packages and contracts. Ok so there isn't nearly enough time to really dive deep into this subject, at least not without sounding like a broken record, but I will try to cover a few things you have wanted to know but were afraid to ask about this fun, fun aspect lol. Here goes *deep breath*
a) Ok I said it before, I'll say it again. Remember, photos are the ONLIEST things you will have left after the wedding. So budget accordingly and when I say accordingly, I mean, better not to leave photography till everything else is paid for and there is some change left over.
b) After you reviewed and did all of your ground work in picking a photographer you have to know, you are paying for talent, experience, time and the bells & whistles (prints, beautiful photobooks/albums). I'll expand on time: Here is some quick math for you - I can tell you that 1 hour of shooting usually means at least 3 (give or take) hours of post production (not to mention the other logistics around presentation, album design, heavy retouching, etc). So think about how much time a 12 hour wedding would translate to after the fact. I remember joking with a DJ friend of mine after a wedding was over, that his work was over right then but ours as photographers, really only just began!
c) If you are having a large wedding (over 200 guests), consider your photographer's second shooter offer (usually at an extra charge) but it will be worth it if you want wider coverage of your wedding. Your photographer is only one person, she will be most focused on your and the actions of the day and can only be in one place at a time through the day. One photographer sure can do a great job but for larger gathertings, a second shooter will help make sure that other bases are covered.
d) Retainer: don't take this for granted. If you are really interested in holding down your date with the photographer, make sure you provide their retainer and fulfill terms of payment after careful review of course. This leads to the next point...
e) READ YOUR CONTRACT!! Every last word. I know everybody knows about this but please read your contract! Remember what your mama said. Ok maybe there are a few contracts out there that are more comprehensive than mortgage papers yikes lol but most photography contracts shouldn't exceed 3 at the most 4 pages. So read every last word and ask your questions before you agree to the terms.
f) Albums,photobooks, prints, etc. Don't get bogged down just yet with all of that. The most important thing at this point are the photos themselves that will go into such album or print or what have you. Don't place too much weight on the dazzling album offers, etc as much as the real product you want to get, the story telling, the photography. Definitely check to be sure that your package includes the high resolution copies of your photos so you can make prints and do whatever you want with it. My services include this; only a few photogs refuse to release those these days. Most will, but at an extra charge (a charge you want to be sure you'd be willing to pay if push came to shove, just sayin') so check!

9. Dum dum dum ! Yaay you met me and you clicked with me, you would like me to tell your story! Again, yay (that's how honored I am!). Next up - and here is where the fun begins, is the engagement session. Don't dull on this one brides. Most photogs will usually include this as a complimentary throw into every single package they offer (very few do charge for it), it is that important. Please don't try to negotiate it out of the deal to beat down the price (the price would usually stay the same whether or not there is an e-session hence the word 'complimentary' lol) It is a lot of fun and makes a ton of sense functionally. For starters, you both get to meet me, your photographer in a setting that mirrors your wedding day. Further, I get to help you get accustomed to being photographed to smithereens and how to pose for the camera (by the time the wedding rolls by, you'll be pros!), I get a better feel of you as a couple and as individuals because each story is unique and no 2 couples are ever the same even if I shoot 200 weddings a year, it will never be just another wedding or engagement session for me! We get to discuss anything you might want me to be privy to, you can give me heads up to help me avoid any awkward wedding day situation or also help me know who you would like me to focus on to get an amazing photo of on the day, things like that. I would usually spend a whole afternoon with you because now, for me it is more than the shoot, it is us getting to hang out and most importantly have fun all while discussing those all important nitty gritty details you need me to know.

That's it for now but wait, there is a part deux coming soon covering the big day!! Well I have to break it into two part, I don't want to be guilty of information overload because I know you haven't got that much time on your hands now; you have a freaking wedding TO PLAN!!! :))
In the meantime, enjoy a collage of some of the wonderful, beautiful brides I shot last year- some of them while on second shooting duties. 11 was a good year; 12 is gon be even better!
x

Hello Baby!!

2012-01-06T19:06:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! New Year, New Baby. Well I thank God, 2011 was phenomenal. I can't say enough about all the lovely couples I met shooting and also second shooting on occasion with other photographers. Here's to another great year 2012 and I know it will be amazing - I will blog better this year and share more of my work with you all. Thank you for sticking with me. The encouragement of all the couples, babies, children, friends and family along the way have certainly helped keep me going. As anyone who follows this blog by now would've deduced, I love dem babies and what better to open the new year with but the most scrumptious newborn shoot! Meet Jordan...

And let me say here, seeing as it's a new year and there will be new babies this year; mommies: 14 is the magic number for a newborn shoot. I repeat: 14 is the...lol but seriously, newborns are best captured within the first 14 days of life if you are looking for a newborn shoot (one day, no, one hour after that, well let's just say we got to call them "oldborns" and you will understand why when you have your baby!). So I said all that to say, holla at your girl soon as your baby lands and I will fit you in the calendar - shameless plug I know :) but I will make it happen I promise.

Look for more details on the newborn/baby/toddler sessions Chocolate Photography NYC will be offering in 2012 in a future post.

Now this baby was a Christmas season baby :). Jordan here is a super heavy duty chunk of joy, a tank of cuteness lol (he weighed in at 9lbs and then some). He is big and strong, don't mess with him, I did and found out soon enough what heft I was dealing with lol. Indeed I looked very forward to meeting this bundle of joy as I shot his mommy's maternity session last year. His mom is half of one of my fave sets of twins :) so that makes him pretty special too. Time for the photos to do the talking - enjoy my fun afternoon with Baby J!

WHAT A YEAR and MERRY CHRISTMAS

2011-12-24T15:52:00.000-08:00

Dear Diary...

Well, so, Jesus' Birthday is almost here and I am editing like crazy tonight so I can take some time off tomorrow to celebrate the birth of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and thank Him for making 2011 an amazing year for me, Yinka and for Chocolate Photography; not to mention His unfailing love and protection over my loved ones, friends and family and all my clients each and every one of them world over!

2011. What a year for the business and I am grateful to you all my lovely clients and viewers of this blog. I wish you all peace in your corners of the world and a happy healthy 2012 ahead. Get set because I know 2012 will be another astounding year and I look forward to working with more fabulous people and couples!

ONWARD!

PS: I always like to try to write a little piece on my Christmas perspectives but alas I ran a bit behind schedule this year so, if you will, enjoy this little piece from 2009 (sorry, sending out old bits won't be happening too often, I promise ;-) )
http://clickmama.wordpress.com/2009/12/23/deck-the-malls/

Also enjoy this sneak peak of Marjorie and John's Punta Cana wedding. It is long awaited I know but the wait will be worth it - another promise!

Thank you and all my best!

Sights and Sounds of Punta Cana

2011-11-22T22:25:00.001-08:00

Enjoy some scenes from my recent trip to Punta Cana for a wedding. New from Chocolate Photography, prints for sale! Contact me if interested in any of the prints below!
Thanks!

Nigerian Entertainment Awards (NEA), NYC

2011-11-22T14:15:00.001-08:00

Sights and scenes from the NEAs in NYC -Sept 2011

Back to Punta Cana: Marjo and John teaser

2011-11-07T00:03:00.000-08:00

Whirlwind is what I can call it. A journey of love by two special people and I can't wait to picture-tell all about it.

Speaking of picture-telling, I am soo behind on blogging it no longer makes any logical sense. All I have on the blog are teasers teasers teasers! Ok I will stop complaining and actually do something soon but in the meantime will you still love me if I left you with these from the super gorgeous wedding of Marjorie and John in Punta Cana, DR?

Welcome Zozo - one week old

2011-11-01T21:05:00.000-07:00

My darling Zozo, this past summer it was a pleasure finally meeting her in real life as it was anticipating her arrival during her mom's belly shoot HERE

Get a load of all that cuteness...

Photoshoot : Actress Ebbe Bassey

2011-10-28T22:25:00.000-07:00

So what do you get when you combine striking good looks and oh so sublime talent?

You get prolific actress Ebbe Bassey and I am honored she asked me to take some promo portraits of her for her upcoming movie "the ties that bind", also starring Kimberly Elise and Omotola Jalade Ekeinde. As usual Ms. M, she brought it to a shoot that rocked like none other! We had a short burst of a blast! Kudos to Flora for doing such a fab job on the make up and Audrey for that rocking hair mohawk style!
Go ahead like her Facebook page here and check out the movie trailer on youtube. To learn more about her and her work go to www.ebbesdream.com. Some of these pictures will make a debut on the site soon. Tres excited!

A NYC girl through and through...

Am I badazz, or what?

Make Up - Flora Fernandez
Hair - Audrey Smith/Above All Salon
Clothing and Accessories Styling - Ebbe Bassey Manczuk

DAWN + MICHAEL

2011-10-20T21:45:00.000-07:00

Right about now, somewhere in a sunny Tuscan countryside or perhaps on a most romantic gondola ride in Venice is my latest couple Dawn and Michael :) Have fun guys and happy married life my dears!

Santi - SIX WHOPPING MONTHS ALREADY!

2011-09-23T19:10:00.000-07:00

Well Santiago (we like to call him Santi) and I go way back ...from belly to baby heheh - his mom's maternity shots are here, then when he was exactly a week old, I got to meet him at his rocking newborn shoot which he totally rocked, fine boy that he is, and now he was due for his six month shoot and he got one!

He brings his mom so much joy, I am so happy that she is enjoying motherhood so much because of him. He was baptized just the other day and what an affair it was, I can't wait to blog about it. In the meantime enjoy some peeks at his rocking shoot.

Taking it from the top - Marjorie and John's engagement session

2011-09-21T20:23:00.000-07:00

Wow what can I say. This post should be subtitled: What Yinka did last summer (yep, it is 'last summer' now if the current sweater type climate has anything to say about it). From Long Island wedding to Punta Cana wedding to Nigeria weddings to NYC weddings to Jersey weddings to Westchester wedding, to TUM DC, to portrait sessions and baby portraits, it is all kinda like a blur. Many thanks to the Lord for keeping me and also my deepest gratitude to all supporters, mentors, family and friends, couldn't have come through without you all so thanks.

Well now that I gave my little speech, I need to address this - I know there have been tons of previews, coming soons, sneak peeks and rah rah rah. I looked back and stopped counting at like 5 lol so I figured I'd take it from the top and start with the sweet Marjorie and John who are getting married later this year. I don't know any two people who fit each other more than them. They have such lovely souls and are so generous. I wish them a lifetime of happiness and joy!! I am happy I was able to make it to their lovely wedding shower (first photo) where we took some engagement session photos.

Marjorie and John

2011-09-21T05:10:00.000-07:00

Lovely couple alert!! Hitting a bloggity near you soon!

Coming soon: SANTI IS 6 MONTHS!!

2011-09-21T04:43:00.000-07:00

Ok I know I have promised soo many coming soons, my head is swirling but I couldn't resist another. Pls bear with me.

So excited for this lovely lovely boy. Such a tank (lol), such a joy...

Can't wait to bring you the rest. He had his christening last weekend and it was a blast! Almost like a wedding we joked. Love you handsome!

Now, how can anyone resist that face! :)

Coming soon: Babyart

2011-08-28T08:53:00.000-07:00

Nothing like a momma's love.

Coming soon: Love in Punta Cana.

2011-08-14T13:54:00.001-07:00

...and just like that I am a destination wedding photographer.

Thinking TUM DC 2011

2011-08-03T16:44:00.000-07:00

Well that's ALL I did for the last few weeks leading up to the event of the summer for me and my business - thinkin' TUM. Not that I had a choice if Ms. George had anything to do with it lol and my my what an outing. I am glad I was a vendor at this here event! So kudos to my girl DeeDee who together with Somachi and a few other partners successfully put on a most exquisite, quintessential premium wedding and lifestyle vendor showcase in Washington, DC on Sunday, The Urban Marketplace (TUM) DC 2011.

Delectable DeeDee!

Sizzling Somachi!

Stuffed swag bags filled with goodies for event registrants!

The table setting.

Chocolate Photography NYC in the house complete with a vintage road studio! I had so much fun connecting with the guests who were so gracious and appreciative of my work. I had some couture hot chocolate and some heavenly godiva brownies (just a few of my favorite chocolately things I wanted to share with my guests and friends...heheh)

It was also such a great opportunity to meet and greet some awesome and creative vendors! I had a blast with my inspirational and childhood friend Dee, mother to my lovely godson, a business mogul in her own right who was there right next to my table! Shout out to Exquisite Guests, your one stop shop for your next event's guest list coordination, I mean they literally take the hassle off your hands and make it theirs, if you'll just let them!! Check her out here and below...

Shout to the other vendors some of whom are old friends I got to reconnect with:
par example the absolutely sublime Tunji Sarumi, who needs no introduction really, whose albums and photobooks literally blew me away. I mean his current work which I regularly peep on his site/blog floors me every single time, but then seeing his work in print takes it all to a whole nother level I tell you! Thanks for stopping by my stand TJ!

When you want to talk about style and styling and fashioninistinction ( I had to make up a word for this, yes I did...), you cannot talk about anyone else but the perpertual gingered swagger that is Ms. Bola Odegbami, CEO of Threads! Represented in full force with a table that was darn near well empty (homegirl made a killing with those uber stylish hybrid combined african print (ankara) designs!!) by the end of the showcase as she displayed her classy fashion forward designs! You never catch this lady in anything less than fab! Holla at her at bolaodegbami@gmail.com if you would like to be styled within an inch of your life! Fiyasity guaranteed (QB you should patent the word - lol jes sayin'!)

Shout out to principal baby planner, the gracious affable Kemi Macaulay-Newman of 9jamom.com! Such a pleasure to meet her and her sweet spirit - holla at her site for everything you wanted to know but were afraid to ask about being a 9jarian mommy, mom to be or dad to be...

How can I forget the sweet Tea, sorry Tia hehehe, of Lyrics by Tia who together with her adorable son and devoted hubby, Wale of Dr.Ajao fame were such a support to me on Sunday! Tia was at the showcase too to promote her creative writing and journal, LyricsbyTia check out her blog for some inspirational anecdotes and enlightening spoken word/poetry.

...just to mention a few! Shout out to the fellow photogs who were front and center at the event, Uche of Matrixx Photography, Folashade of Shardayyy Photography. Shout out also to the lovely Lola Giwa of Master plan events who brought her deftness with studio set up (good training from her beau Wale was on display lol here) in helping me overcome my "frank spencer' moments in the set up of the mobile vintage studio! Thanks girl!

To learn more about the many creme de la creme of vendors that were at the event, go to the website of TUM DC.

Shout out to everyone who came by my stand and road studio, and being such great sports and trying out the vintage portrait theme/look I was going for lol. I had a box of assorted fascinators and pearls for the girls to play with. No one was exempt...lol well so maybe the guys but hey who says a man can't wear pearls, or a fascinator...no? Oh well a girl can try :)

So yes. Much fun was had by all :) Thanks TUM DC! Let's do it again! TUM NYC sound good? (or maybe I'm pushing it no? LOL think about it at least? Ok... :))

To see the full album, go here

If you stopped by for your vintage portraits and would like to download the high resolution digital copy (negative) OR purchase professional quality prints: go here

Coming soon: Welcoming ZoZo

2011-07-23T19:21:00.000-07:00

Maternity: Oochie's havin' a baby!

2011-07-05T19:12:00.000-07:00

My darling Uche is great with child...remember this teaser?

'patiently' waiting ... lol

any day now baby!

a most adorable little girl is coming this way...

a most exquisite bee themed baby shower was underway...great job by the baby momma's sisters and friends

and it was time to hit the great outdoors

Absolutely cannot wait to get my lens on this girl and to welcome her to the world, to life. Look out for the bumper baby post. Warning: the cuteness overload might be too much for some to handle LOL

xx

Coming soon...

2011-07-04T05:51:00.000-07:00

Ok. This is dear dear dear to my heart. I don't know where to begin with this one. I do know that I flew thousands of miles for this priceless shot...my dear friend's joy on her life's happiest day yet. Frankly I still don't know how to thank Nike and her hubby for having me shoot their lovely wedding.

More to come. It feels great to be back from the motherland...

...and the clock keeps ticking

2011-06-06T04:17:00.000-07:00

coming soon to a bloggity near you.
xx

Coming soon: Baby makes four!

2011-05-27T12:49:00.001-07:00

My dear girlfriend just had her second son recently. Before the stork made its rounds, B had called me up and invited me over to beautiful sunny Florida for a beach maternity shoot. It was during the 'spring today, winter/blizzzard tomorrow' phase of NYC weather so was I glad to be away for a few days to some sun! It was also great going back - the last time I was there was years before as B's maid of honor at her wedding. Time does fly and voila she is a lovely mom of 2 beautiful boys! She and her family are dear to my heart and I congratulate them on their latest delivery. I hope you enjoy a peek at their fun family/maternity session.

ife + Billy - The engagement session - Pt Deux

2011-05-18T18:07:00.000-07:00

Ok I am back y'all...no I was not going to make you wait too too long to see the rest of this lovely session with Ife and Billy. We had so much fun. From Midtown to Central Park to the Meatpacking District and oh don't forget the quick pitstop at Pinkberry- and now these two made sure I was hooked back onto frozen yogurt, just when I was about to swear off dairy in general...hold up how did this turn into "about me" again? lol

Everyone, allow me to (re)introduce the Huxtables...oops sorry (inside joke) Ife and Billy...Power couple extraordinaire. I am honored that these two who will become one, have allowed me to be a part of their special day...

Ife + Billy - The engagement session - Pt I

2011-05-11T20:02:00.000-07:00

Ok. I have to warn you. HOTNESS OVERLOAD!!!! Fair warning - not only is this a BUMPER post, this post might be too hot to handle, the chemistry between these two lovely people was literally coming off on every shot! You don't believe me? Fine. Photos don't lie - check them out!

Our fun day started off at the swank Tudor hotel in Midtown - they were so nice to let us shoot there - shout out! Ife and Billy are such a power couple, so I felt, what better ambiance to capture that essence than the Tudor...

Hmmm Ife, this girl looks hot in every frame without even trying!!!

Vamping it up for her man's camera ;)

Off to the park...
I mean, you are in NYC afterall...
Heheh, and no paparazzi please

Central Park just has so much character to it...
Watch this space - part deux is coming right up, served hot of course ;)

Hitting the Bloggity soon!

2011-05-06T23:00:00.000-07:00

Whoa. I have come up for air. Finally the wedding day of Lindz and Erik - remember them? arrived and I cannot say how honored I am to have been a part of it. The happy couple is on their honeymoon right now - have a blast guys and can't wait to show you your images! Right now my heart is so full of such a beautiful day they had but I can leave you with this preview. Check back soon for the full blog post/story!

The Real McKoys...

2011-05-01T20:04:00.000-07:00

Hey there. Happy New Month! There are many reasons why I love the month of May. Well the most obvious of course is we say a proper hello to summer, and also I was born in May and 2 other members of my family! So very grateful to God for this month and all the other days of this year!

Well you might remember this preview...? Yep it's them, it's the REAL MCKOYS again and I can tell you these guys are the real deal.

I went out to Jersey for a lifestyle shoot of the family and these are the images I came away with. They capture the essence of the kids and their dad so well heheh. You have to know them to understand fully, what I'm talking about...

Anyway I had a blast, my girl Autumn was my road dawg and paid me the most attention lol so let's start with my girl.

She's a sweetheart and daddy's girl and she don't play when it comes to him! Bests not try to talk smack about her daddy within her earshot or else you'll hear "That's my daddy!!!" lol m jes sayin (Honest it did not happen to me... ;P)

The boys! Check out their swag!

The house the McKoys built....

Guys I cannot wait to this again by then the boys will have more smiles for me I hope but then I heard the cool kids don't smile for photos. Oh mehn... ;)

Lola's orange and pink shower

2011-04-15T12:45:00.000-07:00

Bursts of pink and orange, guests were requested to kindly turn out in white attire...if you would remember I showed you the preview of a sweet shower to remember a couple weeks ago. Now I bring you the full story! I thought I was blown away by the thought, panache, class and creativity that went into this bridal shower (not that I expected anything less of a fashionista like the bride to be...) till I heard that from the sweet candy bar to the place settings to the gorge centerpieces, the bride did all by hand! Yeah baby, DIY!!

Wow. So Lolita dear, I think someone might have missed her calling and should just segue into signature events lol. She would be super fab. The attention to every detail was just wonderful.

Ms. Funmi Ajao, CEO of Impressive Events left no stone unturned in making sure the orange and pink theme was recurrent throughout the shower. From the games on orange paper to the orange and pink signature drink, to the gifts for participants she did an amazing job keeping everyone entertained. Kudos to maid of honor extraordinaire, Ms. Debbie (if all MOHs were like you, there would be NO bridezillas in the world lol. Honestly!) who worked tirelessly with the bride to help realize her vision for the event (and the wedding day!). Thanks also to bridesmaid Oyinade for helping pull off this lovely affair.

The bride herself was bedecked in orange and fuschia/dark pink (at the shower there was the argument on the exact color to call those fab shoes!) and of course her bling. The food was umm ummm goood! It was such a fun affair, complete with games and the vibe of company that would make you not want to leave! This past weekend was the wedding event and my can I wait to tell that story on here!

Would like to wish Lola every congratulations and every blessing that accompanies marriage! Started on a great note and will continue forever in Jesus name! AMEN!

sugar overload...

The sig drink was amazing - Ciroc Lola (actually exists heheh)

Kudos to Funmi for this guestbook. Guests took a polaroid photo of themselves and slotted it into the pages with their written well wishes!

foood glorious food ;P

Maid of honor caught winding down heheh

The lovely faces of guests...

Coming soon...

2011-04-05T04:32:00.001-07:00

sweet love...

btw I looooove natural window light!

A simply eventful and delightful affair!

2011-03-29T20:20:00.000-07:00

Okay. Today's post is some detail overload, and I LOVE IT!!! Recently I photographed this classy swank upscale affair, Lily's phenomenal 50th birthday celebration! The venue was a swanky loft like space which was transformed into upscale lounge ambiance...

Big up to event planner and organizer extraordinaire Ms. Lashanda Washington of Simply Eventful and Delightful Events for putting together this exquisite event! I met Lashanda at a sweet sixteen extravaganza that I was privileged to photograph last year (will be blogging soon!). It was a movie themed affair and I was blown away at how the theme was incorporated into every aspect of the event. Lashanda and her team were tireless; they left no stone unturned and transformed another empty space into a popping party.

So of course I was more than happy to photograph her most recent event, and again I was blown away. I will let the photos tell the story. Apparently all you have to do when you are thinking of an event is tell Lashanda your thoughts and she will bring it to life with such attention to detail. From the great food to one of the best cupcakes I have ever eaten, no joke, I HAVE to shout out to Kelly's cakes here *gosh* to the upscale bar set up, to the lights - big up to the lights man Lee (contact Lashanda if you want his great work to transform your party); I can't say enough how much fun I had at this affair! Lashanda I look forward to the next groove!
I can say enough actually - the photos really tell the story.... :)

Lashanda's team will craft the most creative signature drinks for your party...

Oh these red velvet cupcakes were the yummiest ever!

the red hot ladies at the bartend...
yummy cocktail eats!

great lighting theme! Great job by the lights man, Lee

more nosh

okay this guy here, I am sure he thought I was sent to stalk him at the party! Isn't he the cutest!?

This was a fun fun part, when the lovely birthday girl made her grand entrance! All eyes were on the star of the evening as she danced to Pretty girl rock by Keri Hilson.

Then things got interesting as the celebrant danced with her sweet mama! Pretty touching moment...Momma got rid of her walking stick to do her thing heheh

It just seemed like a great time for friends and family of the celebrant to reconnect

Preview: The Real Mckoys - better ask somebody!

2011-03-24T21:40:00.000-07:00

More coming soon. I have a lot to say about this shoot! I loved every minute!

Preview: A sweet shower to remember and meeting of a photographer.

2011-03-21T22:01:00.000-07:00

Wow where do I start, where do I begin to talk about this shower. Well I am saved by the bell so to speak because this is just a sneak peek of what transpired at the bridal shower of a dear friend, which was just absolutely darling. I SAW your vision girl heheh!! I sure did see...and what a lovely vision it was. I cannot wait for the wedding. Shout out to my girl who emceed, Ms. Funmi Ajao, CEO of Impressive Events! More details on the shower in the full post.

Don't want to give it all away, you know this being a preview and all :), so let me move into the other main attraction of my post today.

So I am sitting there minding my own business and in saunters photographer wunderkind, Dotun Ayodeji and soon as I recognized him I'm like phew, pressure's off because I KNOW he was not exactly in there to have a fun time at this gals only shower lol. Leave it to my able CEO to question his mission "Ah Mr. Dotun, how are you, are you here to attend or are you here to work?" she asks. He murmurs his response, which I think was something like "ummm work..." LOL. Apparently he had just worked a full day wedding the day before, he explains, and was beat but still came to surprise the bride by shooting her bridal shower for her. Top customer service right there I'll say...

So just like that I formally not only meet but work with and learn a whole lot of tips from, Ddot! I inform him that I had seen him once or twice before at some wedding or two in the last five years but never introduced myself, even though I always visited his blog from way back from his shutterchance days with my gesticulative commentary on pretty much every other photo he would post LOL, to his current photoblog, yep call me blog stalker lol. "Oh" he says, 'if those occasions you'd seen me were whilst shooting a wedding, then probably I wouldn't remember fully..." he is in the zone when working and does not have that much time to socialize...oh well I totally understand!

For the first few minutes we exchange notes on our photography experiences, he more than me of course with the loads of weddings he's shot and then he opens his bag of tricks, sorry toys, sorry trinkets, oops I mean glass (for non photogs, I mean , lenses); I gasp and have to step back like 'whoa...' and then he quips, 'Oh I did not bring all of my lenses to this shoot" and I'm like, wait there's more?!?! LOL

We get to shooting and I see him do that voodoo that he do lol, live in a smaller, more relaxed setting (no wedding day mode here, phew thank God lol) and I have to say his shooting style is no frills, unobtrusive and almost invisible. For the most part, I did not really even see him in the room, it was like he was not there, oh but he was and he has his stellar images to prove it -I hope he blogs the shower...he quips that he is not very much of an obsessive compulsive blogger you see - I daresay if he had to blog every wedding, commission or event, he would have to blog almost every day of wedding season...

I could go on and on but I'll say Dotun it was a pleasure to meet. Thanks for the tips on flash lighting, angles and of course your willingness to be nice and share your glass...

Yap got some few funny shots of Dotun doing his thing.

Santi, Baby - The full newborn post

2011-03-10T21:54:00.001-08:00

Caro had a baby na na na na na :)

So yeah my dear Caro who had a splashing smashing maternity memoir sometime back had the baby boy and his name is Santi!! His arrival has been much anticipated by all and I enjoyed his cute scrumptuousness the other day when I went to have his newborn session! Everybody say hey to his cute self! God bless you Santiago!

Family time...

More family time - methinks Santi is still wonderin' 'where the heck is this place?!?' LOL!
With big bro Sebas (remember him?) :)

Daddy's little football star...
or, baseball star! :)

Caro's men..

Bun's out the oven! Yaay!

Mommy time...

Wedding Library Event in NYC

2011-03-04T21:59:00.000-08:00

Last January I was lucky enough to score two complimentary tickets to The Wedding Library and Martha Stewart Wedding magazine's Wedding Party at the New York Palace through 100layercake.com, an awesome bridal blog (Thanks 100layercake!), always brimming with great wedding ideas and vendors. I find 100layercake to be a great resource for keeping up with current trends in wedding planning and details, they also have great giveaways from time to time, so I go there often to see what's new. Well this one particular day was my lucky day when I received the email informing me I'd scored tickets to the event. So, I grabbed my dear friend Ms. A who is engaged to see what was what at this posh affair...and what a lovely day it turned out to be! Kudos to the organizers - The Wedding Library and Martha Stewart Weddings!

Scenes from the day.

Carte Blanche from Elan Artists, I love these ladies; sorry I have to gush about their talent and finesse that comes with each performance!

Claudia Hanlin and Jennifer Zabinski of the Wedding Library, one of the top wedding/event planning agencies in the US
Darcy Miller, editor of Martha Stewart Weddings Magazine
Panel with other notable people in the wedding industry
which included NYC renowned cake designer, Slyvia Weinstock
I tell you she was just so very interesting to me, I had to shoot her so many times, I was mad at myself for not bringing a longer lens so I could steal a portrait...
lol ok I was lucky to catch this very ahem enthusiastic expression of this lucky prospective groom. LOL dude, you proposed ok so suck it up :) - I keed
Z100 radio personality Carolina Bermudez, who just got engaged herself, moderated the panel discussion and wow I was like starstruck! Been listening to the morning show for years and wow it was such a trip to finally see her in the flesh and wow funny story I actually got up to her and wanted to speak but the words were just not really forming. Carolina sorry if I startled you with dork like behaviour, I am not always like that, I guess being starstruck happens to best of us afterall.
after the panel we moved to the other pavilions in the palace to view the vendors and their amazing presentations:
Lights
Delectable looking and tasting cakes

gorgeous placesettings
creative lithographics/invite cards

Dylans Candy is just the bomb diggity! Always brings such color and life!
And here was another fun fun part of the day for me: Meeting photogs whose work I admire. I met Jen Huang who just has the most peaceful spirit and I am not just saying that so she can decide to have a giveaway for her next workshop and nominate me... :) actually, not just that, it was a real observation. Very lovely lady I'm glad to have met. I also met Mel and Co. Mel Barlow and Allan Zepeda are photogs whose work have been inspiring to me as a photog. That was fun too.
and then if was off to the Kleinfield Bride/Groom fashion show!

Elan Artists had such a slamming bands showcase! I love Elan Artists! I can't tell you enough how much I enjoy the events they put on periodically in the city to showcase their bands and artists! You should go sometime. We had so much fun jamming to the different bands, from old school to hip hop!
My roadbride for the day Ms. A

I was a sucker for the seersucker dress and shirt (on the groom) in this set!

Oh Joshua!

2011-03-03T22:02:00.000-08:00

I said it before, I'll say it again. How I managed to resist the urge to gobble this bundle of effervescent excitement that is Joshua up, I'll never know. Actually maybe it's because we go waaay back, Josh and I, see we met about a little over a year ago (a year is "waaay" in the life of a toddler...) when he was still kicking his mom's belly - you can see that on my defunct blog here. I had a most lovely maternity shoot with Mommy and now he is about to clock the big 1 and of course he is going to get his portraits.

I should use this opportunity to introduce a new package I am offering with respect to babies and toddlers! I always lovvve capturing the innocence and wonder and excitement of a baby/toddler. Those are the shoots I really enjoy! I always leave alive, happy, full of hope for the future (trust me it's that deep heheh). Anyways, pls read more here, the first item under "Special Packages". Then call me :)

Now there were TONS of faves from Josh's shoot that I was beside myself trying to pick which to share. I tried my best....enjoy !

yes it does take a village to dress a child (I'd forgotten...;P)

Lights on!!!

2011-02-28T19:00:00.000-08:00

Hello World!

Hope y'all like the new look. Now now it is still work in progress and so you will observe subtle changes over the next few weeks so please bear with us as we make renovations towards continuous improvement! Please leave your comments and let me know your thoughts about the new look.

As the blog gets fleshed out, I will be making posts to notify you all about the new pages, sections, etc. I am very grateful to all who made this new look possible!

Now, I can't think of a better way to launch the new look than to share the feature written by make up artiste extraordinaire Tamara Figueroa on Plush Nylon Magazine that featured the photos taken by yours truly at the Emerging Designers Fashion Show I shared last week! PlushNylon is a digital magazine focusing on fashion, art, beauty, and culture, offering the perfect mix of cutting edge fashion editorials, insightful articles, and interviews with emerging icons. I would encourage all fashionistas out there to bookmark this magazine!

Big up to the talented Tamara and wow I do appreciate her encouragement and kind words about my work! I look forward to working with her in the near future again (yeah yeah I know I said that before but you'll see why shortly ;))...

You can read her article here

Bola + Alex : Wedding Pt Deux

2011-02-24T21:17:00.001-08:00

The final of the trilogy. The last of the series of posts on Bola and Alex 's once in a lifetime day. But their story will never end...

Wedding events

2011-02-23T20:58:00.000-08:00

Every now and again I get whiffs of wedding events/showcases for brides and I try to attend to see what's new. It's always so much fun so when I have time I try to go and also snag some detail/food shots. Here are a few of my faves. Enjoy...
Yep, that's a cake folks...

Coming soon: Santi Baby

2011-02-23T10:19:00.001-08:00

Hello baby, we meet again...only this time I am meeting you in the flesh! Love doing new born shoots and I had an awesome time this past weekend with America's next top baby model Santi. Here's a preview of the full post coming soon!

He even got his self a lil mohawk...oh la la do you see how delish he is??

Hello Holga: Flirtin' with Film

2011-02-22T17:35:00.000-08:00

Wow sweet lovin yummy film and I am toe splashing in the water with the plastic 'toylike' HOLGA medium format camera. Got 120 film and after I remembered how to install film in the camera (throwback to the days I could do that in my sleep back in the day), I hit the road and went to the market at Union Square.

I think I found a new vice (it's a bit hard on the pocket processing film and all) and I didn't realize how much I'd missed the anticipation of how the photos would turn out while waiting to get them back from the lab. There is this cult feel to the photos that I find most interesting. I will be doing this again sometime! Can't wait for the next roll of film...

Bola + Alex : Wedding

2011-02-21T14:14:00.000-08:00

Bringing to you the second posting (of three) of this glorious day.

Bola and Alex had a very New York City wedding just as they wanted and I am happy I was a part of bringing their vision to life! A downtown Manhattan wedding at the beautiful, renowned Trinity Church (where they streamed the wedding ceremony live online!), a reception on a yatch on the East river that made a stop at the Statue of Liberty where the wedding cake was cut on the deck and just a lovely city ambience). It was an extra perk to the groom to have his wedding photos taken around the Wall St. area given that he works in the financial district. Needless to say, I had a field day with this wedding!

I always try to capture all the happenings of the day rather than try to orchestrate too much for the sake of photo ops - I hope I am making sense. I am old fashioned like that. Not that there is anything wrong with setting up of scenes, heck there is a lot to be said for it but there is also a place for allowing the day to go as it was supposed to and just being on hand to capture what happened for their memories for life.
Just the other day, I had the honor of being in their home and I could not help but marvel at the greatness of God in their new life as one. Words are really just not enough so, again I go back to the pictures...

Rogue Gallery Presents: Emerging Designers

2011-02-19T15:39:00.000-08:00

Around New York Fashion Week I was invited to join the photog's pit of Rogue Gallery Fashion Show by uber talented make up artist and fashion writer, Tamara Figueroa. For super professional and high fashion make up artistry at it's best Tamara is the go to person. A former New York model with an artist's eye, she does high fashion and editorial make up work and I was lucky to work with her on a shoot earlier in the year. I cannot wait for the next opportunity to work together and was delighted that she asked me to photograph the show for her article which I cannot wait to read.

Rogue Gallery has a mission to showcase emerging designers and that they did. There was a total of 14 designers! FOURTEEN!!! Not that I have photographed that many runway shows but NEVER have I seen so many designers in one show! Such fun indeed and I can tell you being in the photog's pit aint as pretty as being on the runway but for me it was such a riot, the adrenaline rush of getting each shot just so (since it all really happens so fast) was fun for me plus let's not forget all o dat eye candy heheh and I really loved the designs - to me, these were outfits, everyday people could pull off and not contraptions that were doomed to be stuck on a mannequin for life. Also I admire the mission of the gallery to cast some light on a lot of erstwhile little known, upcoming designers, whose work can go toe to toe, head to head with some of the big names...see for yourself.

Happy Birthday Mikey!

2011-02-18T14:10:00.000-08:00

Ok everyone sing happy birthday for my darlin' godson who turns the big 2 today!

Awww aint that just cute. The doting big bruh that he is! God bless you good my dear! Just a bundle of joy. Always exudes excitement and he is really sensitive too (mmmhmmm lil girls revisit this post when y'all turn 21, heheh you will remember I said that about him when he was just 2...)
Happy Birthday son! God bless all the days of your year!

New from Moo...excited about new business cards! Pls don't smh at me :)

2011-02-11T13:39:00.000-08:00

Hello, we are taking a break from regularly scheduled programming (I just had to) bring you the new improved business cards that just arrived from the lovely people over at Moo! Here goes...

Why hello Moo. Nice to see you again too.

I just about squealed when these arrived ya know what with this whole New Year New Everything thing going around ;P. So, new Business Cards from Moo.com yaay!

There were the cards from last year. No photos, just graphics and lots of colors (there were about 10 colors but I gave them all out, forced them on poor hapless unsuspecting friends and family heheh

These are the new ones.

I love them and thank all the lovely models and clients for featuring!

Call me. Satisfaction guaranteed (no not that, silly! heheheh)

Bola and Alex: Love and the city - Pt 1

2011-01-27T22:19:00.000-08:00

Once in a while, right in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy tale ~ Anonymous

Wow...take that rewind it back! Way back to this glorious fall day in Oct 2010! This is one blog post that has taken me a minute to share. Maybe because the couple is so special not only to me, but to every single person that was involved in the wedding; and I wondered the best way to present their story. Each time I contemplated it, I realized, there are really just no words and so boy am I glad that there are photos.

They had a lovely New York City fall wedding and yours truly was handed the honor of covering the story. Bola and Alex what can I say? Thank you so much for letting me share some of your joy and document your lovely New York City Wedding (that was the theme of the day and my was it really an NYC wedding - you'll see more and why in Pt Deux of this wonderful day!). I wish you love and joy and peace and unity all your days.

Here is the first part showing the behind the scenes of the bride and groom before the ceremony. I had help with this one. My darling friend Oby was assistant for the day. You can see her in one of the photos, adjusting the dress! Great job girl and thanks for saving a life that day!

Enjoy!

Braving the storm - Snowpocalypse 20.10!

2011-01-19T21:40:00.000-08:00

Stuck in Jersey during the great blizzard of 2010 and couldn't have had a grander time! My girls know how to battle the elements and WIN!!! Love you mihas!!! Thanks for posing for my lens...

A yummy mommy shoot: Caro's maternity session

2011-01-07T07:58:00.000-08:00

I use the word "yummy" in it's literal sense here. I take poetic licenses and liberties in doing so. You'll see why. When my dear friend Caro told me she was expecting, I was terribly excited and couldn't wait for her to become great with child...

The most fun I'd had in a photoshoot for years (sorry all others, I love you too but geesh!). Many thanks to Caro's dear friend Vanessa (hey Vane!!) for her assistance with the shoot!Thank you so much Caro for putting your confidence in me and my puny camera lens. Isn't she just amazing!!?!?!? as in freaking awesome! I am so excited and can't wait to meet the bun in the oven. Love you miha (heheh)

Events: TAPT (The Artists' Playground Theatre) New Plays Staged Reading Series.

2011-01-03T19:20:00.000-08:00

Late last year I had the pleasure and privilege of covering a play reading staged by TAPT, a theatre production company based in NYC that creates and produces new works, thus encouraging a dialogue within the artists' community. I had a whale of a time and I'll say if you are a lover of the arts, you should check out their website for more information on this brilliant company established to support the growth and sustainability of the arts in NYC and beyond. More details on the readings for this year will be on their website so if you are in the NYC/tri-state area, check out the website for more information.

TAPT is the brain child of Nichole Donje, a talented actress, and her husband, Scott Allinson (also a photographer). She was one of the actors in the reading and was absolutely phenomenal. Due to union rules I was not allowed to photograph the reading of the play itself but I was able to document the scenes and faces at the event. All in all, as someone who appreciates the arts, it was an honor and I would like to thank TAPT for having me. Look forward to the next one!

Event name & date: New Plays Staged Reading Series, Dec. 7, 2010
Play: An Appearance of Desire
Playwright: Vanda
Organized by: TAPT (The Artists' Playground Theatre)
www.TAPTheatre.com

Happy New Year!!!! - and the many faces of Chi....

2011-01-03T10:15:00.001-08:00

Any other word for a Birthday girl...

Vivacious, spritely and full of life. That's what you get when you combine a birthday with 5 Pointz, NYC, a camera lens and a Chi lol. CrAzY MaD FuN! Bananas!!!! Personally, I can't think of a better way to kick off what promises to be a slamming year on my blog! My dear friend Chi is a such bundle of joy - never a dull moment with this chick (you'll see what I mean by the time you reach the end of this bumper post!) and I am not just saying that because I know she is reading this ;))... (hey girl). The occasion was her birthday late last year and as you can see she had a blast...

We were having so much fun these random guys HAD to join in!

LOL nope she don't know him like that! See what I mean by never a dull moment with my girl?! LOL

Yeah she especially appreciated the "joker" background. One guess why that was?!? hahah

Happy Birthday Chi and thanks, for letting me share in your day boo! Here's to many more!

Sebas!!

2010-12-17T20:38:00.000-08:00

Well I finally met him- Sebas' fame had preceded him and I soon found out that it was no mere legend! I mean not only is the kid at least 10 kinds of cute, he's such a natural in front of the camera, the boy literally gave me two dozen faces and poses in ten minutes! No sooner had I even brought my camera out the bag had he begun hamming it up for my lens. I see modeling in your future kiddo... but college first of course heheh!

So, I finally met Sebas and I think y'all should meet him too...

Love her, love her belly...

2010-12-16T09:40:00.000-08:00

yep, don't get it twisted ;)

So my girl just had a baby! Nostalgia of when she was preggers with the baby moons ago :)

I love maternity shoots...I mean, EVERYTHING about motherhood is to be celebrated, every single thing.

Congrats to my dear friend and yummy mommy...

Introducing another sign and wonder of God...

2010-12-14T20:21:00.000-08:00

Omigosh isn't she like soo scrumptious, like I wanna eat her...what? oh c'mon now not literally - before you clutch your mother pearls... :)

Introducing a sweet little girl we call Tammy. Everyone say hi, she is a dear wee little girl and dear to my heart - can't wait to see her again soon!

owwww so precious. God is wonderful. Lil Miss Tammy was just a week old and so delicate, I was not sure how to handle her sef...

Aunty will see you soon boo. Keep being the good kid that you are!
xx

Oh what a lovely boy!

2010-12-14T19:10:00.000-08:00

The many faces of my guy ...

Mommy I said I can do this myself...

owwwweee he's so cute and ruff n tumble

even when he cries there's a hint of a smile...

cleans up nice when he wants to ...
:)

Oh but isn't he just a little bout of joy and energy! Love this kid. He's a good kid. And my godson! Love you Mister M - you'll make a great big brother!
xx

Mariam & Ladi : Wedding a.k.a "the big fat blog post"... :-)

2010-12-07T21:09:00.000-08:00

Rounding out the final post in the trifecta of Mariam and Ladi's wedding weekend. Last post was the traditional engagement and I am no less pleased to bring you their classy and fun wedding where I provided back up assistance to Olufunmi of S67 Photography, it was a pleasure to work with him and meet these great people.

Ok I just hope y'all aint tired of all my raving. No? Phew *wiping brow* cos here goes :)

Ok there were so many real, poignant moments in this wedding and yet a wonderful mix of fanfare, laughter with myriads of friends and family and of course all o that fabulous food heheh. I was blown away by the detail put into the planning of this wedding. I can't say enough about the panache of the decor - my girl Dee of MSarah Weddings and Events pulled out all the stops on this one - from the lovely rich bouquets for the bride and her train, to the boutonnières for the groom and his men, to the chapel decor, to the reception hall decor - brilliant! ...and all done in record time!

I wish the new couple a life filled with love & joy, humor & grace and, peace & tranquility! No two people could be more deserving...

Now. You'll have to forgive me for the million and one photos from the wedding, I just loved it so much - generally I like the photos to tell the story because, well as you already know, I can't shout... ;P BUT I might throw in a caption or 2...

Waiting patiently for his bride

..who had a hard time blinking back tears on her walk down the aisle

the look on his face as she approached says it all

Cocktail hour...

the celebrities of the day en route to the cocktail hour

stopped by paparazzi...

toast offered by maid of honor, the bride's sister

followed by the groom's brother

and a most romantic first dance

then it was off to the reception!

couple dancing in - owww so cute!

Sororrrr sistas always representin'

c.h.o.c.o.l.a.t.e

Baby Zoe

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JEREMY!

Calling all 2012 Brides a.k.a So you are thinking of having a wedding this year... Pt One

Hello Baby!!

WHAT A YEAR and MERRY CHRISTMAS

Sights and Sounds of Punta Cana

Nigerian Entertainment Awards (NEA), NYC

Back to Punta Cana: Marjo and John teaser

Welcome Zozo - one week old

Photoshoot : Actress Ebbe Bassey

DAWN + MICHAEL

Santi - SIX WHOPPING MONTHS ALREADY!

Taking it from the top - Marjorie and John's engagement session

Marjorie and John

Coming soon: SANTI IS 6 MONTHS!!

Coming soon: Babyart

Coming soon: Love in Punta Cana.

Thinking TUM DC 2011

Coming soon: Welcoming ZoZo

Maternity: Oochie's havin' a baby!

Coming soon...

...and the clock keeps ticking

Coming soon: Baby makes four!

ife + Billy - The engagement session - Pt Deux

Ife + Billy - The engagement session - Pt I

Hitting the Bloggity soon!

The Real McKoys...

Lola's orange and pink shower

Coming soon...

A simply eventful and delightful affair!

Preview: The Real Mckoys - better ask somebody!

Preview: A sweet shower to remember and meeting of a photographer.

Santi, Baby - The full newborn post

Wedding Library Event in NYC

Oh Joshua!

Lights on!!!

Bola + Alex : Wedding Pt Deux

Wedding events

Coming soon: Santi Baby

Hello Holga: Flirtin' with Film

Bola + Alex : Wedding

Rogue Gallery Presents: Emerging Designers

Happy Birthday Mikey!

New from Moo...excited about new business cards! Pls don't *smh* at me :)

Bola and Alex: Love and the city - Pt 1

Braving the storm - Snowpocalypse 20.10!

A yummy mommy shoot: Caro's maternity session

Events: TAPT (The Artists' Playground Theatre) New Plays Staged Reading Series.

Happy New Year!!!! - and the many faces of Chi....

Sebas!!

Love her, love her belly...

Introducing another sign and wonder of God...

Oh what a lovely boy!

Mariam & Ladi : Wedding a.k.a "the big fat blog post"... :-)

New from Moo...excited about new business cards! Pls don't smh at me :)