I had a super great time at Britt and Crystal’s wedding, and I’m going to miss the times we had shooting their engagements, Crystal’s bridals, and of course running from the chainsaw guy at the end of the Haunted Hotel, haha. I hope that we can stay in touch long after this two have been married. There were some first for me with this wedding and reception. The ceremony took place at First Freewill Baptist Church in North Little Rock. The reception was in two parts, the first was cake and punch on the campus of the church immediately following the ceremony. We decided to let the guest have cake first before we did the formal photos. That seamed to go over well. The real reception though, was the after party, after the sun had set everyone met up at The Little Rock Club. This was the 30th floor of the Regions building downtown. I’m glad I’m not afraid of heights, pretty incredible view to say the least. My first time at both of these locations. The wedding was beautiful, the view at the reception was crazy, and the food was awesome. Crystal found The Calm Coming out of Conway to play some live music, this is my kind of party. Mark G. helped me out again as my second shooter. Here are some of the photos from the night. Congrats Britt & Crystal, enjoy the photos!
Today was Veteran’s Day, a day set aside for us to remember and honor our veterans. A lot has changed in 233 years of our great nations life, but one thing is still the same. We still have many, many, freedoms that we should be thankful for. I had an opportunity to spend the day with the VFW Post 9095 here in Little Rock. I spent most of my time talking with Sergeant Major Clifford Burks of the U.S. Marine Corp. He spent 32 years serving our great nation and fought in three of America’s bloodiest wars. The Sgt. Major’s uniform was completely covered in metals and patches, two purple hearts and the highest ranking one can receive in the Marines. I was most impressed though, with the Sgt. Major’s memory. I can’t remember most of my early highschool, but Burks was recalling dates and names from his past like it was the alphabet. We sat and talked inside the post as we looked at the wall of photos in front of us. Hundreds of heros decorated from past duties. Burks has 2 daughters and 2 sons. Both sons served in the Military. Before dinner Burks prayed for the food and also lifted his grandson who is currently stationed in Iraq. I felt very welcomed from everyone at the post. Despite the memories of past wars and fallen brothers, the atmosphere was practically upbeat. I was also reminded that Veteran’s Day is only one day of the year and I should stop by more often.
Even though my grandfather, brother, and uncle all served in a branch of the military, I know that I’m guilty of taking for granted how great our country is due t0 the men and women that fight for our freedoms. Today was a wonderful reminder of that. I know that giving away a few portraits to the veterans and their families I met today was a tiny gift in comparison to what they have done for us, but I hope that these photos can bring a few smiles in the least. Here are just a few of my favorites. Enjoy, and the next veteran that you come in contact with, tell them thanks.
Eli
VFW Post 9095
Clifford Burkes
Sgt. Major Clifford Burkes U.S. Marine Corp
John D. Fee 173rd Airborn
Sgt. Bill Harris U.S. Marine Corp
Odell Strickland
Vietnam Vet
If anyone is interested in donating to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9095, you can contact Jim Smith at vfwpost9095@att.net
I first met Lauren at a wedding 3 years ago. It was her sister’s wedding. She was a bridesmaid and I was the videographer. I also met my girlfriend of 3 years at that wedding. It was a busy day for me. Who would have figured that Lauren would soon be getting married as well, and I would have a unique opportunity to take part in her family’s celebration again. There is one more sister in her family, the youngest. She’s not engaged yet. Third times the charm? Haha. Ryan and Lauren are a wonderful couple, constantly making each other laugh and playing around. The engagement session went by so fast. I was snapping away like crazy. I didn’t want to miss anything. The explosive laughter, the spontaneous kisses, the unexpected shoulder seat. They defiantly kept me on my toes. I can’t wait for the wedding in January! A lot has changed in my career since I first met Lauren three years ago, but one thing’s the same. I’m still having a lot of fun capturing couples in love. Enjoy the pics everyone and leave me some love. Congrats Lauren & Ryan!
Eli Murray Photography
Engagement Ring Photo
Look how great these two are together.
Engaged Couple Hugging
Engaged Couple Kissing
Here’s that really old phonebooth in Downtown Little Rock. Believe it or not, this was actually the first time I photographed it.
I am going to be taking part in Help-Portrait on December 12th. I encourage all other photographer to check it out too and help spread the word. I can’t wait. This will be a wonderful way for us as photographers to give back. Thanks to ML Baxley for first sharing this link with me.
I’ve always really enjoyed taking family portraits. I love when I can just be in the background and capture the family as they interact together. Especially if I can meet the family at the setting of their choice. I know that if everyone is comfortable, the photos will show that. I met the Bratcher family at their backyard play gym. Little Jackson & Riley were right at home, I was just there snapping away with my camera. These were two of the most adorable siblings I’ve seen. I know that Mom and Dad will cherish these times forever, and I was honored that they asked me to photograph it. Here are just a few of my favorites from the day. Enjoy!
