Nine years ago, I walked into the office at the historic Trinity Episcopal Church in Upperville, Virginia, and practically begged a commando church secretary to let my friend Angel get married there, even though she wasn’t a member of their local congregation. Even though my audacious move (born out of some seriously fierce loyalty) didn’t pan out, this spot became one of our favorite locations for meeting, photography, living a little outside of our everyday lives.
I’ve done quite a few shoots here over the years; it felt a bit like coming home to open my last round of Virginia sessions up at this church. I was so comfortable with the setting that I even dared a few shots on the roll of film I’d installed before leaving Charleston. I’d been putting that off, tying my brain in knots trying to figure it out. Learning film by pushing the buttons isn’t so easy – or so inexpensive – as digital pushbutton learning.
I still had to edit my film shots (apparently I need a light meter because metering as I would meter for digital is a no-no), but at this point, I’ll claim victory for trying. Film, I am coming to understand, has a mind of its own.
It was so wonderful getting to see Angel again and meet her two little guys, Liam and Luke. California is too far away. I have a hard time keeping up with my two, but I don’t have a tornado like Liam, who brought his daddy into the shoot in miniature – he was a hard one to nail down for photos!
After all my years of moving and all the friendships I’ve had, Angel is one who stays close to my heart, maybe because she is one of the most amazing people who ever let me into their lives. Some people are just like that.I am in awe of my friend, but I always have been. She’s one of the most incredible people I know, and now she is mom to two more incredible people. We’re both bad at long distance relationships, but being full in the moment together counts for a lot.
P.S. I owe a special thanks on this shoot to my sister (also Angel’s friend, who misses her even more than I do!), whose mad kid-wrangling skills saved a bunch of these photos. Kate, you are the awesome.
FILED UNDER: Family, Lifestyle, NOVA Portraits
Such lovely session. I think I may have met her once. Not sure, I remember hearing about her and seeing her picture.
And what is it about Episcopal churches? I think they have THE coolest architecture. Whenever I see a pretty church even before I see the sign it’s always Episcopal. :)
Pictures shot at a special location make the results so much more meaningful.
These are beautiful, Kelly.
oh wow, Angel! They look so much alike! Gr8 job as always, Kels. My fav is the one of Liam kissing Angel or Luke on Angel’s lap sitting on the stone steps or Liam hanging upside down
Beautiful work!!! Gorgeous setting and beautiful color!
So purty, miss Kelly. And the textures in these images are amazing, especially the softness of the mommy and her babes.
Blessings.
Oh Angel is so beautiful! Kelly, I am daily surprise by how many people you know that I know! Angel used to babysit the me and my siblings when I was younger. :) These are excellent shots!