MICHAEL'S BAPTISM

One of the many reasons I love photography is that I get to experience and see first hand new and interesting family traditions and religious rites. This was no exception. My first Greek Orthodox Baptism was a beautiful and educational event for me. Did you know that they dunk the baby in a basin of warm water rather than the catholic tradition of simply pouring water over the baby's head? It is beautiful!
The ceremony is also a personal one. One baby at a time allowing the family to really be present and feel a true connection with the sacred rite of their loved little one! There is stimulating Greek chanting and singing and the incense that is shaken through the censor makes the experience awaken all 5 senses. A little note about the censor that I just learned from Wikipedia! "It hangs at the end of four chains representing the Trinity. The lower cup represents the earth and the upper cup the heaven. There are 12 bells hung along these chains representing the 12 apostles. The censer is used (swung back and forth) by the priest/deacon to venerate all areas of the church." I guess this is one of the most visible traditions and I have always wondered about it! NOW I KNOW!
Now on to the photos!

DESIGN IN A BOX

This is the brainchild of a fabulous designer in Calgary. I was lucky enough to be a part of the project by photographing some images for her site. Nyla Free designs is an upscale interior design firm that creates subtle, contemporary and tremendously beautiful spaces. Nyla has decided to offer her incredible talent in a new and innovative mail order design service. You simply fill out a basic questionnaire on your design requirements and Nyla will deliver to you a gorgeous box filled with swatches, a source guide, floor plans and stunning ideas for your room. The best thing is that you can finish the room at your own pace as budget allows. The best of both worlds....professional design service at your own budget! CHECK IT OUT at www.designinabox.ca

Adriana + Phil 16.10.09

Adriana and Phil, don't love the spotlight....but boy did they rock it on their wedding day! Gorgeous! It was a bright, sunny day in October and Adriana picked a fabulous location do do her photos. The Burlington Town Square. This location had so many little spots to shoot it....I was in heaven! Congratulations, and may your lives be forever filled with the love and happiness you had on this day....

AUTUMN leaves and PUMPKINS!

This is by far my favorite time of year for photos! The weather is great, the leaves are gorgeous and you can wear a pretty scarf and sweet little sweater. The colours of the season make a humdrum backdrop look stunning! I was so happy to get a call from Vido and Lauren to do family photos in a pumpkin patch! Before their daughter was born, we did some maternity photos in a pumpkin patch and they wished to return there again for Abbi's first birthday. We had a great time shooting in the gorgeous evening light. Thanks to the lady at the patch on Derry Road for staying open while we shot!!!

NEW LIFE

This little bundle of cuteness was less than 2 weeks old when we took these. He was already so strong and had such an amazing personality. Congratulations Marsha and Dan! Your boy is beautiful!!

HIGH KEY DAY AT THE LAKE

I love high-key photography. It is so fresh and draws attention to the relationships of those in the photograph by removing unnecessary detail. The Howie's love to laugh and play and it was so much fun recording their connections!!

BEACHFRONT FAMILY FUN!

We had some amazing sun for this shoot in September and it made the lake sparkle like a jewel. It was so much fun to meet all of you and to spend some time playing on the beach!

GORGEOUS LIL' MAN!

Welcome baby Noah! What a sweet boy he is...hardly made a peep the whole time I was there. Best wishes to the proud new mom and dad!

LOVE IS IN THE AIR....

Congratulations Paul and Emily! We took these photos at the historic Don Valley Brickworks. What a great location for photos. Thanks for a great day!

ITS A BOY!

As Marsha and Dan prepare for their little boy to arrive, we got together for a photo session to capture these precious days before baby arrives! I wish you both and your son-to-be all the best!

ANTICIPATION and LOVE

As Alanna and Owen expect the birth of their first baby all you can see is love, hope and a strong sense of togetherness. May the days to come be filled with wonder and joy.