Ann and Brian's Backyard Garden Tour
Ann and Brian’s portrait session at home in Baltimore was candid and laid back. We explored their garden and spent time in a beautiful room with blue painted trim and masks on the wall.
Whimsical Campground Wedding in Germantown
Everyone gathered at Elizabeth's family church, Wellspring Conference and Retreat Center, a series of intimate A-frame buildings lined with warm wood planks. Over the course of summer, she'd thrifted for mismatched tablecloths, vintage floral china, and carefully placed family wedding photos in vintage frames. She even made the flower bouquets herself!
He proposed to her "over grapefruit at breakfast and conversations about furniture," which I think set the tone for their relaxed, genuinely lovely wedding day. It was simply about bringing family and friends together for something that felt like a late summer potluck- and of course- an excuse to wear a wedding gown little girls dream of.
Everyone gathered at Elizabeth's family church in Germantown, Wellspring Conference and Retreat Center, a series of intimate A-frame buildings lined with warm wood planks. Over the course of summer, she'd thrifted for mismatched tablecloths, vintage floral china, and carefully placed family wedding photos in vintage frames. She even made the flower bouquets herself!
But probably the most meaningful element of their wedding was their ceremony. Under two enormous trees in the center of an empty field, Elizabeth and Lee exchanged vows. The clouds moved so quickly that day. They covered the entire sky one moment and the next it was radiantly sunny. If their ceremony was a play (these two have a background in theater) the lighting design impeccably added to the story.
Their parents read poetry, a close friend played the accordion, hymns were sung, and at one point, every person there held hands at the same time. Two friends choreographed a zen-like dance routine that represented marriage through movement- the ups, the downs, but most of all the centeredness that marriage provides and the special way it encourages two people to be their best selves, side by side.
Relaxed Mansion House Wedding at the Baltimore Zoo
Sophie and Greg had not one but TWO weddings. The first took place prior to their Baltimore ceremony with Greg’s family across the country. A week later, they few back for round two with Sophie’s family at The Mansion House at the Maryland Zoo. They were so relaxed and easygoing about the whole day, which put the focus on taking fun photos around the zoo (we took a tour via golf cart) and spending quality time with family. They even walked each other down the aisle while everyone cheered!
Sophie and Greg had not one but TWO weddings. The first took place prior to their Baltimore ceremony with Greg’s family across the country. A week later, they few back for round two with Sophie’s family at The Mansion House at the Maryland Zoo. They were so relaxed and easygoing about the whole day, which put the focus on taking fun photos around the zoo (we took a tour via golf cart) and spending quality time with family. They even walked each other down the aisle while everyone cheered!
Mother's Day Mini Session at Golden Hour
I really wanted to capture some mother-daughter affection, so we played a game called "telepathy" and it worked like a charm!
Rachel and her daughter Amelia met at my house for a day of spring mini sessions. Like many four year olds, Amelia has no shortage independence and being cuddly is definitely not her usual state of being. I really wanted to capture some mother-daughter affection though, so we played a game called "telepathy" and it worked like a charm! We started by picking flowers together, and then when she was all warmed up I asked them to put their foreheads together and challenged Amelia to read her mom's mind. I love using tricks like this to get photos like THIS:
Spring Mini Session Picking Flowers
Diana and her boys enjoyed a golden hour family session on a beautiful spring evening. They picked flowers, played in the creek, and pushed each other in the tree swing.
Bright and Airy Lifestyle Newborn Session
This cutie pie was wide awake during the majority of our session, wide eyed and cuddly. She stared at her mama and papa as they did what all new parents do- fawn over the peachfuzz, the rosy cheeks, and every last finger and toe.
This cutie pie was wide awake during the majority of our session, wide eyed and cuddly. She stared at her mama and papa as they did what all new parents do- fawn over the peachfuzz, the rosy cheeks, and every last finger and toe. I think that's what's so special about lifestyle newborn photography- being in the frame with your little one gives you the ability to remember what it felt like to hold something so small and precious and new. During Aubrey's newborn session, we bounced between her nursery and the bedroom. Both rooms had gorgeous morning light and we mostly just snuggled the baby until she finally fell asleep in mama's arms. I'd call it perfect.
Commercial Photo Shoot with Annie Howe Papercuts
Go behind the scenes with Annie Howe Papercuts in this intimate look at an artists’ studio.
Rustic Old Town Alexandria Wedding in the Fall
Their first look was at the Wilkes Street Tunnel, and much to our surprise, another wedding party was getting ready to do their own photos at the same spot when we arrived. Thankfully we squeezed in and got some amazing shots (and memories) in about five minutes!
Sarah and Ben's wedding is a perfect example of merging where you come from. Sarah grew up in a historic rowhouse on a quaint Old Town street so she always dreamed of having a classic Old Town wedding. Ben grew up on a farm in Iowa- the same place they were engaged- and wanted to bring some country charm to their big day.
Their first look was at the Wilkes Street Tunnel, and much to our surprise, another wedding party was getting ready to do their own photos at the same spot when we arrived. Thankfully we squeezed in and got some amazing shots (and memories) in about five minutes!
Because Sarah and Ben had a first look, we were able to knock out ALL family and wedding party formal photos before the ceremony even began! They had a classic church ceremony and mass, and then we walked down the street to Virtue Feed and Grain. There was a slight drizzle which made everything all the more romantic. I love umbrellas at weddings! The couple looked like they belonged on a vintage Old Town postcard with the cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and glowing street lamps.
By the time we arrived at the reception venue, it was pouring! Everyone felt so cozy in the candlelit loft with dark wooden walls and giant windows overlooking the city. Dinner was casual (and delicious) and everyone had a blast mingling with each other and dancing. I was totally impressed by the hip older ladies at this wedding! They had some serious moves!
VENDORS
ceremony venue- St. Paul's Episcopal Church
reception venue- Virtue Feed and Grain
dress- Lian Carlo
shoes- Jimmy Choo
suit- JoS. A. Bank
rings- Forrell C. Jewelry
flowers- The Enchanted Florist
hair and makeup- The London Bob Hair Design
cake- Pastries by Randolph
Fun Vintage Wedding at Lithuanian Dance Hall
Michelle and Danny were married in a classic family church and then we headed to their first Baltimore City rowhouse apartment rooftop to take 1950’s vintage inspired portraits. Their reception was held at Lithuanian Dance Hall, a gem of a venue in Pigtown. There were vintage sci-fi table settings and a lime green decorated donut cake!
Winter Engagement Photos at Loch Raven Reservoir
Aubrey and Jason chose to take their engagement photos at Loch Raven Reservoir in Baltimore County on a cold spring evening. There was still snow on the ground and the sunset warmed us to the core.
Fun Loving Engagement Session at Patterson Park
I met Katie and Zach at one of my favorite places in Baltimore, Patterson Park, for a casual and carefree engagement session. The grass was dotted with buttercups and they didn’t hesitate when I asked if they’d lay down in it!
Winter Wedding at the Historic Admiral Fell Inn
Laura and Patrick live in NYC but travelled to Baltimore to celebrate their wedding with family and friends at the Admiral Fell Inn in Fells Point. They gave out Old Bay wedding favors and even had a cigar bar! We had about 30 minutes before their ceremony (and before dark!) to take some quick waterfront and rooftop portraits. Instead of a typical first look, Laura asked if we could organize one with her grandma. It was definitely my favorite part of their whole day! Well, that and all the spontaneous portraits the guests asked me to take during cocktail hour! This crowd was SO. MUCH. FUN.
Laura and Patrick live in NYC but travelled to Baltimore to celebrate their wedding with family and friends at the Admiral Fell Inn in Fells Point. They gave out Old Bay wedding favors and even had a cigar bar! We had about 30 minutes before their ceremony (and before dark!) to take some quick waterfront and rooftop portraits. Instead of a typical first look, Laura asked if we could organize one with her grandma. It was definitely my favorite part of their whole day! Well, that and all the spontaneous portraits the guests asked me to take during cocktail hour! This crowd was SO. MUCH. FUN.
VENDORS
Invitations: Minted
Officiant: Rev. Samora Smith
Florist: Nutmeg Flowers
Caterer: Admiral Fell Inn
Bakery: Sugar Bakers
DJ: dstraxnmedia
Live Musicians: Bachelor Boys Band
Makeup: Beauty by Jacs
Bow Tie/Pocket Square: Seigo Neckwear
Cufflinks: Curated Basics
Linens/China/Cutlery: Select Event Group
Cigars: Casa De Montecristo (NYC)
Eagle's Nest Country Club Wedding in Phoenix, MD
This wedding at Eagle’s Nest Country Club was defined by Lindsay and Adam’s infectious and child-like giggles anytime they were near one another! I arrived in time for a few detail shots, but mostly, this couple wanted their day documented just as it unfurled with an emphasis on connections between family and friends. These dance floor photos are some of my favorites to date!!
This wedding at Eagle’s Nest Country Club was defined by Lindsay and Adam’s infectious and child-like giggles anytime they were near one another! I arrived in time for a few detail shots, but mostly, this couple wanted their day documented just as it unfurled with an emphasis on connections between family and friends. These dance floor photos are some of my favorites to date!!
VENDORS
Invitations, Placecards, and Signs: Minted
Officiant: Anna Marcus (friend)
Florist: Dundalk Florist
Venue and Caterer: Eagles Nest Country Club
Bakery: Graul’s Market
DJ: Music Masters
Bride's Dress: BHLDN
Bride's Shoes: Keds
Wedding Rings: Brilliant Earth
Hair + Makeup: Gaby Vinas (friend)
Groom and Groomsmen’s Suits: Generation Tux
Tie/Bow Tie/Pocket Square: Knotty Tie
Bridesmaids' Dresses: Brideside
Casual Newborn Session with Twins in Hampden
Crystal and Renee live in a cozy little row house in Hampden with exposed brick, beautiful hardwood floors, and charming stained glass windows. I love that the aesthetic of in-home newborn sessions is always defined by the style of a person's home.
Crystal and Renee live in a cozy little row house in Hampden with exposed brick, beautiful hardwood floors, and charming stained glass windows. I love that the aesthetic of in-home sessions is always defined by the style of a person's home. Some homes are bright and airy, some are patterned and colorful, but this special home lent a warm, glowing quality to the photos. Since life with twin newborns is all about snuggling, that's what I asked these sweet mamas to do. Not surprisingly, we mixed things up with burping, feeding, and a whole lot of giggling at all the adorable smiles and coos. Relaxed, low-key newborn photography is my favorite.
Pierce's Park Family Session with Brothers
Photographing kids in their element means following their lead, getting down on their level, and occasionally enticing them into situations where they're cuddling up on mom. (That often takes creativity, since running around independently is pretty exciting!)
Diana and her boys met me at one of their favorite downtown Baltimore playgrounds, Pierce's Park. If you're local and have never been there, get on it! This was my first visit and I was totally blown away. It's a unique mix of giant interactive sculpture, a music garden, and luscious landscaping. I also love this location because you can see the beautiful architecture of some famous Baltimore landmarks off in the distance. The boys came dressed in dragon wings and- like all devoted moms- Diana showed up lugging a couple scooters and helmets and very likely snacks and band-aids in her backpack. We had so much fun running through the willow tunnel and pretending to fly.
Photographing kids in their element means following their lead, getting down on their level, and occasionally enticing them into situations where they're cuddling up on mom. (That often takes creativity, since running around independently is pretty exciting!) I asked Diana to sit still, close her eyes, and gave the boys the "secret" task of running up from behind and tickling her. And as our session came to a close, the three were rolling down a huge grassy hill and collapsing into each other with laughter.
Baby Lia in a Mt. Vernon Row House
Grace and three month old Lia are visiting from Turkey, so grandpa hired me for an at home photography session to document this precious time in Lia's babyhood.
Grace and three month old Lia are visiting from Turkey, so grandpa hired me for an at home photography session to document this precious time in Lia's babyhood. It was a very cloudy day, and the light was dark and moody which matched the decor of the living room so well. After I shared these images with Grace, she shared this sweet sentiment:
“I asked McKenzie to photograph me nursing because I didn't want to forget how intimate and deep these moments with Lia are. How could I have photos taken of her at this age without covering this thing we do so many times a day and during which we exchange such pure love with each other? Sometimes we just gaze into each other's eyes. Sometimes we make each other laugh and joke. Nursing is the definition of ‘quality time’ for us right now so it had to be documented.”
Grace, it was an honor. Thank you so much.
Timeless Ceremony at Chase Court in Mount Vernon
A few weeks before Sherie and Duvall’s wedding I got a phone call from Chase Court, a wedding venue in Mount Vernon, asking if I was free to photograph a one-hour ceremony. David, the venue owner, was offering a new package for couples on a budget. The deal is this- invite your closest family and friends to a one hour, midday ceremony in their beautiful courtyard and get flowers, a photographer, and a musician to serenade you down the aisle for one flat rate. Pretty darn good if you ask me! I had the afternoon free, leapt at the opportunity, and have zero regrets. Sherie and Duvall were the absolute sweetest!
A few weeks before Sherie and Duvall’s wedding I got a phone call from Chase Court, a wedding venue in Mount Vernon, asking if I was free to photograph a one-hour ceremony. David, the venue owner, was offering a new package for couples on a budget. The deal is this- invite your closest family and friends to a one hour, midday ceremony in their beautiful courtyard and get flowers, a photographer, and a musician to serenade you down the aisle for one flat rate. Pretty darn good if you ask me! I had the afternoon free, leapt at the opportunity, and have zero regrets. Sherie and Duvall were the absolute sweetest!
Classic Newborn Photos at Home in Roland Park
For all of my in-home sessions, I like to walk around a house and scope out where the loveliest light is. At Mary's house, the nursery and living room were absolutely beautiful and filled with natural light. I loved how bright and airy they felt!
Oh, how I love a good newborn session! Walking into a home that has a new baby is such a calm, quiet sensation. It's always such an honor to be invited! Grayson was born a month early, so Mary decided to give him a few extra weeks to grow before hiring a newborn photographer. Most of that month was spent snuggling, so that's exactly what I asked them to do while I was there!
For all of my in-home sessions, I like to walk around a house and scope out where the loveliest light is. At Mary's house, the nursery and living room were absolutely beautiful and filled with natural light. I loved how bright and airy they felt!
Rainy Day Mini Session at Rawlings Conservatory
Even though it was a cold, rainy afternoon, we stayed warm and dry in the beautiful Rawlings Conservatory in Druid Hill Park. I'm normally down to make photos in almost any weather, but when tiny babies are involved, that can be tricky. I'm so glad this amazing venue exists!
I've had the honor of photographing Louisa (and now Morris) every six months of their lives. It's been a joy watching their parents settle into new roles and these kiddos reach new milestones- smiling, walking, running, talking. I'm humbled by the idea that someday this family will get to look back on a visual reminder of all the joy that these fleeting years were filled with.
Even though it was a cold, rainy afternoon, we stayed warm and dry in the beautiful Rawlings Conservatory in Druid Hill Park. I'm normally down to make photos in almost any weather, but when tiny babies are involved, that can be tricky. I'm so glad this amazing venue exists! Both toddlers and big kids love putting quarters in the gumball-turned-fish-food dispenser and feeding the koi. It's a calm and peaceful environment and almost has the quiet air of a library. There are stunning archways made of vines, sweet-scented tropical flowers, giant banana trees (with real bananas), lemons, limes, cacti, a whole room dedicated to orchids, and a two-story greenhouse filled with enormous palm trees. It's the perfect place to wander around as a family. Slow, adventurous, and full of magical discoveries!
Modern Waterfront Wedding in Canton
Chris and Hattie were married on a breezy summer's day in the heart of Canton, Baltimore's historical industrial district. Their ceremony was at St. Casimir Church and then everyone walked across the street to the waterfront. There was a mashed potatoes bar, an ice cream sundae station, and each guest signed a Jenga block instead of a guestbook.
Chris and Hattie were married on a breezy summer's day in the heart of Canton, Baltimore's historical industrial district. I don't often photograph traditional church weddings, so I'm always humbled by the slow and thoughtful pace of a Catholic ceremony. After the mass at St. Casimir Church, it was fun taking advantage of the beautiful exterior architecture for family portraits. The reception was an easy walk across the street to a public park for a bayside reception. Hattie's dad had carefully carved each wooden centerpiece and filled them with tiny monogrammed glasses for sampling craft beer. There was a mashed potatoes bar, an ice cream sundae station, and each guest signed a Jenga block instead of a guestbook. I love all the personal touches this wedding included, and that at the end of the day, it was all about relaxing and having fun with family and friends!
