An Update

Confessions of an Ivy League Transfer Student

Who is also a wedding and portrait photographer, running her own business, trying to figure out a new city, making new friends, working as a communications intern, and passing class at the same time. If that seems to be a mouthful, imagine living it and loving it at the same time.

One of the most peaceful times on Penn's campus is at 8 am on a Saturday morning. It's just about the only time you'll find Locust Walk empty; the college students are still sleeping from the night before, professors are home for the weekend, and the restaurants have yet to open for the day. It's silent. It's beautifully silent.

It's my perfect break from the crazy life that I've been living these past few weeks. Weddings, photo sessions, an internship, new friends and classes constantly calling for my attention. As much as I love every single moment of it, it's nice to have a little time for myself. It's quite ironic how the one thing that keeps me so busy - my camera - is the same thing I run too when I need a little peace.

This weekend will include a train ride back to Maryland, two weddings for two absolutely amazing couples, driving back up to Philly, and somehow finishing all of the reading that I need to have completed by Monday. So if I've been a little slow to respond to your emails or maybe I haven't been calling you back as quickly as I'd like to -- please forgive me! I'm still here, I promise! Haha!

Here is where I need your help! I want to plan something this winter to implement for Summer 2010 as a way to give back using my photography. Maybe having an essay contest for a free session, organizing a marathon session day for a charity, or donating a portion of my profits during a certain month to your cause of choice. If you have any fun, creative ideas please send me an email! After all of the craziness in my life, I want to have something philanthropic to look forward to doing this summer. So talk with your friends -- create an idea -- and shoot me an email! :)

All the best,

Natalie Franke

Kaitie & Alan's Session

On Sunday I photographed Kaitie and Alan at a fun lifestyle / senior session in Philadelphia. We covered 6 blocks of old buildings and walkways in the gorgeous morning light. It is easy to see how much they care about each other. I love photographing couples like that! Here are just a few images from the shoot.

Kait is also a photographer! She brought her camera along for a few pictures.

Kaitie has such a gorgeous smile!

Paisley Turns Two!

Yesterday, I met up with Steven, Katie, and their daughter Paisley for a family photo shoot in celebration of Paisley's second birthday! Steven and Katie drove up from Maryland to visit art galleries in the city and have a family session! They came more than prepared with tons of toys to keep her happy & a gorgeous hot pink petticoat! This was my first shoot in Philadelphia (yay!) and we never even left Penn's campus. Here are just a few of my favorites from the session!

Katie & Paisley!

The squirrels on Penn's campus are too familiar with people!

This little guy thought that we had food and kept running up to us!

Steven & Paisley!

Hugs for Paisley!

I love the curiosity that children have. Everything is so new to them & they aren't afraid to explore!

Katie & Steven -- Thank you so much for driving to Philadelphia! I had an amazing time at the shoot and it was great to see you both again! :)

Amy & Jason's Wedding

I photographed Amy and Jason's wedding last Sunday at The Inn at Mitchell House in Chestertown, MD. This amazing couple took every step they could to make the wedding "ecofriendly" and it was an absolute success. Each friend and family member played an important role in the day; including the amazing catering by Mark Bourne and a gorgeous wedding cake made by Amy's sister Marie Donahue. Never before have I felt such energy and excitement at a wedding! Both families couldn't be happier and it shone throughout the entire day!

Amy with the adorable flower girl, Caroline.

Amy and her gorgeous bridesmaids!

All the groomsmen!

Jason and his brother Greg doing the robot! Oh, you just have to laugh!

Amy and Jason are one of those couples that are truly meant to be.

Two pieces of a puzzle that fit perfectly together.

The Reception!

Instead of throwing a garter, Jason threw a frisbee! :) So fun!

Thank you to Amy, Jason, and both of your families! I feel so blessed to have photographed this special day in your lives! :) Enjoy this new journey together & the many beautiful years to come!

Vendors that I loved!

-Inn at Mitchell House located in Chestertown, MD. The Innkeepers Jim and Tracy Stone were incredibly welcoming and helpful! One of my favorite locations!

-Mark Bourne Catering

Finally Getting Settled!

I am finally getting settled in after last Wednesday's move to Philadelphia! If you've been waiting for an email back or for your gallery to go online, I'm so grateful for the patience! I'm extremely behind schedule and doing my best to catch up. I also photographed Amy & Jason's beautiful wedding on Sunday & hope to have it on the blog by the end of this week! Check back soon! :)