Welcome to my blog! My name is Natalie Franke and I'm a wedding photojournalist and portrait photographer in the Philadelphia, Baltimore, & DC metro areas!

I specialize in capturing candid moments as they unfold and finding real emotion in each image that I produce.

I love my job & feel so blessed for all of the incredible friendships that I have gained through photography. I'm happy that you've come across my little piece of the universe! Take off your coat & stay a while!

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Ashley & Erich's Wedding

From the minute I met Ashley and Erich early last spring, I knew that I wanted to photograph their wedding. When Ashley told me about their plans for the ceremony, Erich kept looking over at her and smiling. It was a simple, "you are my entire world", kind of smile. The type of smile that can only come from a deep and honest love. It's the little things about Ashley and Erich that make them so perfect for one another... the way he makes her laugh, the way she lights up when she is around him, and how his hand always seems to find hers when they are standing side by side. Their wedding day was absolutely beautiful and I feel blessed to have been a part of it! Congratulations Ashley & Erich! :)


In the taxi on our way to the church.

Their "first look" before the ceremony.Firstlook

The ceremony was held at the beautiful International Student House in Washington DC.



I love when brides where cute shoes... especially when those shoes are their "something blue".


The reception was held at Washington DC's Tabard Inn. All of the details were beautiful and the food was delicious!

One of my favorite moments during the course of the day was when Ashley's sister and Erich's brother gave the toasts. Everyone was laughing and it really captured the joyful emotion of the day! :) I would be lying if I said that I didn't laugh a little myself!




I also want to thank the amazing Natalie of Natalie Jewell Photography for second shooting! :)

Giving Back

It was just a week or so ago that I sent out a post asking for suggestions on how I can give back to the community using my photography. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and it holds a special place in my heart. In honor of the many women in my life that have battled or are battling breast cancer, I'm proud to announce a partnership with Think Pink Photography.


Think Pink Photography was founded in October 2007 to support individuals and their families who have been touched by breast cancer. We are a charitable organization that serves two main purposes – celebrating life and supporting the cause.

Through our professional photographer network, we are helping breast cancer patients to celebrate life with charitable photography sessions. Individuals may choose to document their fight against the disease before or during treatment, or prefer to capture their victory by scheduling a session within 12 months after treatment is completed. Photographers world-wide are now available to donate time and talent to celebrate life and support the cause. There is no cost or obligation to the breast cancer patient. Clients participating in a Think Pink Session will receive a complimentary photo session, as well as a set of 10 small prints from the session. They will also receive a discount on any additional portraits they wish to purchase, although there is absolutely no purchase required at any time.
If you, or someone you know, would like to schedule a Think Pink session, please contact me for details.
I'm extremely excited to become a part of this amazing organization! Thank you to all of my amazing friends & clients that emailed me with suggestions for 2010.

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Sarah & Steven's Wedding

Steven has always known how to make Sarah laugh. During their engagement session, I can't even begin to tell you how many times Sarah was laughing and Steven was smiling at his bride to be. Their wedding day was just as, if not more, joyous and beautiful. The ceremony and reception took place at the Historic Savage Mill Manor in Maryland. Every detail fit together perfectly and Sarah looked absolutely stunning in her dress. Congratulations to you both! I feel so blessed to have shared this day with you and here is a sneak preview of many more images to come! And I want to extend a huge thank you to the amazing Meghan Vince of Meghan Lynn Photography for being an amazing second shooter.


I loved the groomsmen's shoes! ;)

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Sarah's mom didn't come as merely a guest in the wedding. She was the officiant that presided over the ceremony. Every story she told and word she spoke painted the beautiful picture of Sarah and Steven's love. It was all from the heart and eloquently spoken.




They are always smiling when they are together.

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Sarah's Dad surrounded by a group of gorgeous ladies! :)
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Saturday, October 3, 2009

Vendor Spotlight

A few weeks ago I was browsing one of my favorite sites on the web (Etsy) when I came across Beth Sapafora's page and fell in love! When I saw this absolutely adorable camera necklace, I couldn't resist! :) Definitely an artist to check out for the shutterbugs as well as any lover of vintage jewelry. Just thought I would share!

Friday, October 2, 2009

Marci & Brian's Wedding

Last Saturday, Marci and Brian were married at St. Mary of the Mills Parish in Laurel, Md. The entire day was filled with friends, family, and love for the happy couple. The reception was held at the Marriot Renaissance Hotel overlooking Baltimore's beautiful Inner Harbor. They integrated Polish traditions into the reception in order to celebrate Marci's heritage and it had all of the guests dancing together. Noah Hayes did a fantastic job second shooting the day for me and photographing the groomsmen as they prepared before the wedding.

Marci works as a producer for the Lou Dobb's Show on CNN. Monday night, he congratulated them on his broadcast with a photo that I had taken from the wedding. Lou Dobbs summed it up by saying: "Marci and Brian, we are delighted for you both. We wish you congratulations. All the very best, all the happiness possible." This is exactly how everyone present that day felt. Marci and Brian are so happy together, so in love! I have no doubt that this new chapter in their lives will be blessed and filled with happiness! Congratulations Marci and Brian! :)


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Noah did a fantastic job photographing Brian and the groomsmen getting ready. I loved this shot!baltimore inner harbor photographer-15

Leaving for the church!



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One of the highlights of the night was the Polish babushka tradition. (The babushka is a veil worn by the bride.) Marci danced with her guests as they encircled her and threw money into her veil. The bridesmaids kept Brian away until he threw his wallet into the veil signifying his commitment to the marriage. He then picked Marci up and ran with her out of the room! It was fantastic!