Ashley & Erich's Engagement Session

Ashley and Erich are absolutely meant to be a couple. They fit together perfectly, as if they were born soulmates and spent their lives destined to find one another. Erich knows exactly how to make Ashley laugh and the way the look at one another is electric! I can't wait to shoot their wedding this October in Washington, D.C. -- It's going to be fantastic! We did their e-session at Sandy Point State Park and did our best to avoid the overwhelming crowds of beach goers that swarmed the entire complex. Check it out!

Isn't she gorgeous! I just loved this shot.

I love a couple that doesn't think twice about doing something crazy. Lets chase sea gulls.

I had a great time shooting this e-session. Even after puncturing my knee in an attempt to get the "perfect shot" -- I wouldn't have changed a thing about this session! I can't wait to shoot your wedding in October! :)

All the best,

Natalie Franke

Doxiepoo Puppy

I have always loved puppies. When I was five, I memorized nearly every dog breed in the canine encyclopedia. I spent hours watching Animal Planet and researching breeders online. I was that annoying child that begged her mother three times a week to go to the SPCA. So - - When my aunt and uncle called me while I was in Florida announcing they had adopted a Doxiepoo puppy (half daschund, half poodle), I couldn't wait to snap some pictures of her. My three cousins named their new puppy Jazz & she is absolutely precious.

She only weighs two pounds, but is always trying to climb on things as if she were a big dog. This is a shot of her jumping up on my knee while I'm taking pictures. I guess she wanted her close up!

Puppies seriously melt my heart. They are too cute. :) I'm hoping this won't be the last post I do on this little angel! She is adorable.

Yours Truly,

Natalie Franke

Spontaneous Florida Vacation

Last week I was out to dinner with Shannon and her friend Becky that flew in from England to visit for a few weeks over the summer. We were talking about how much fun it would be to plan a spontaneous trip & just jet off into the sunset... the following morning - Shannon called me with a plan. Before I knew it, my bags were packed and I was holding a ticket to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This short vacation turned out to be one of the best I've ever had & I wanted to share a few pictures from our adventure!

My first mirror shot when we got to the hotel!

I promised Becky that when she came to the US - we would have a photo shoot! :) It was a blast!

Lounging by the pool.

These lizards were everywhere. When we would walk on the sidewalk, dozens would dart out of our way.

My friend Shannon rocking her favorite sunglasses.

The best friends! :) Separated by the Atlantic Ocean.

Becky & I after a long day at the beach!

Our last sunset!

The view from our balcony at night, overlooking the Intercoastal Waterway.

If you are one of the many people who emailed or called me over the last few days, I am doing my best to get back to you all! :) I'm hoping to finish responding to emails by tomorrow morning. Thank you for being so patient!

All the best,

Natalie Franke

Amanda & Josh's Wedding

Amanda & Josh are one of those couples that are absolutely meant to be together. They look at one other like they have everything in the world & indeed they do! Their wedding was held at the Grachur Club in Pasadena, MD overlooking the beautiful Magothy River. Amanda took an immense amount of time to prepare each beach-themed detail herself, a true creative bride! :) Josh and Amanda are going to be stationed in Washington State in a short amount of time & I wish them the best of luck as they begin this chapter of their lives together. I also want to thank Natalie Obringer & Michael Jewell of Natalie Jewell Photography for assisting as a second shooting/videography combo! They were absolutely fantastic!

I couldn't get enough of how cute her garters were!

Most of the "getting ready" time was spent smiling and laughing. Amanda has an incredible personality!

The gentlemen were looking sharp and classy.

And the girls were going to have a blast no matter what! :)

One of the great aspects of the ceremony was the creating of the unity "sandle" rather than the traditional unity candle lighting. The blending of the sands represented the creation of a new family from two separate people.

Amanda also made the place cards for each guest! :) They were beautiful

There were a few moments in the ceremony where all they could do was laugh,overfilled with happiness.

And it's official! Mr. & Mrs. George! :)

Oh & completely forgot to mention that the look like a pair of models! Seriously.

And they know how to have fun! Perfect jumping shot!

The cake was not only delicious, but beautifully decorated.

Next Stop: Forever.

One of my favorite send offs yet.

Thank you again to Amanda and Josh for having me photograph their special day! I hope you both are enjoying your honeymoon! ;)

All the best,

Natalie Franke