MATT'S SENIOR PHOTOS [tampa photographer]

Matthew loves three things most: his car, basketball, and FSU. This future Nole comes from a family history of basketball (his dad played for USF and is a successful coach) and competiveness. And yet, Matthew is also laidback and knows how to have fun. He loves to joke around and hang out with his friends. You'll find him raising school spirit at football games or at the beach. We tried to capture all of this for his senior photos. From playing ball in his high school gym to chasing the sun in the countryside, I think we were able to do just that... It ended up being more fun than it was work. Congrats, Matt, on your graduation and future at FSU! Best of luck and God bless.   

THOMPSON WEDDING IN OCALA [tampa wedding photographer]

There's an old wives' tale that promises that if it rains on your wedding you are blessed. So if rain equals good luck, then Jessica and Bob's marriage will be one that goes down in history.

It was a cold, rainy day in Ocala, Florida at Hidden Oaks Venue, yet somehow, it made the day more magical and special. The bridal party hoped to wait out the rain, but it was one of those days where the clouds and water drops were here to stay. The original waterfront location was drenched, decorations were blown over, flowers were waterlogged... So around sunset time, we huddled under a small tent-- surrounded by Jessica and Bob's most beloved family and friends-- and witnessed two people become one.

The wedding was sweet, intimate, and full of a passionate energy. The bad weather didn't dampen the bride and groom's spirits at all; they were focused on one another and what the day meant. As a wedding photographer, you'd think shooting unplanned in a small dark tent during a downpour would be the kiss of death, but to be honest I feel blessed, too, experiencing the day exactly how it was. It grew me as a professional, and because of the rain, we were able to get an intimate, earthy feel that suits Jessica and Bob exactly. Together, they are the salt-of-the-earth kind of people, and I think their wedding day represented them exactly. The day was full of love, energy, laughter, and dancing. And I'm sure the Thompsons wouldn't have it any other way. Jessica and Bob, God bless you in your marriage and all the beauty this life holds for the two of you. Thank you for including Phinney Photography in your special day.     

ALL WORK IS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED AND MAY NOT BE USED WITHOUT THE EXPRESSED PERMISSION OF THE PHOTOGRAPHER.

From the Bride:

Bob and I met working together at a restaurant, but it was only after a whole year of working together, after Bob took the MCAT, that we started dating. We went dancing to celebrate a coworker's birthday and, as they say, the rest is history! After a year and a half of dating, we got married at the courthouse, just us two. In the first two years of marriage, we were challenged and shaped by so many unexpected things (moving to a new city, medical school, finances), but we have only grown deeper in our love for each other and for the Lord. It was extra special to celebrate our two years anniversary with a big wedding with our family and closest friends! The chaos of the rainy day echoed what we've learned in our first two years of marriage: Don't sweat the small stuff, and always always be thankful for what you have.

Hair and Makeup: Bride and Bridesmaids
Venue and Dress: The Event Warehouse (http://www.eventwarehouseco.com/)
DJ: KC Webb Entertainment (http://www.kcwebbentertainment.com/)
Cake: Bevita Events (https://m.facebook.com/Bevita-Events-468044429995005/#!/Bevita-Events-468044429995005/)
Videographer: Amanda Walter

Clare's Senior Photos: Part I [tampa photographer]

Being an English teacher, it's rare I am speechless when it comes time for me to describe one of my brides, or a family, or my sweet senior girls I get to work with. But when it comes to Clare, I certainly am. And it's not because I can't come up with words; it's because I am overwhelmed by wanting to say too much. There are so many words that come to mind. Clare is a rarity among her peers. She has overcome tremendous difficulties and setbacks in life, and she is the most strong, optimistic, faithful, talented young woman you will ever meet. She's an artist, excelling at creative writing and photography. She's an advocate, speaking up for those who struggle with Usher Syndrome and "deafblindness." She's the girl who says, "I want to change the world," and you believe her. On the lighter side, she's got the best sense of humor, knows all of the good movies to watch, and will talk your ear off about all of her many passions. As you can tell, I am a BIG Clare fan! And I can't wait to take more photos of her. Here's just Part I of her deluxe senior photo package. We'll be meeting up later this month to hit up downtown Tampa and have a great time making photographic magic together. Until then, I hope you enjoy!