PORTRAIT :: Brittany at Sunrise

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Sunrise Portrait by Chip Bunnell PhotographyWhat do you call a young, determined, successful woman with a giving heart and joyful smile?  In addition to a thirst for adventure and travel, she is also excited about trying wholesome new experiences.  The world knows her as Brittany.  I am one of the lucky that is able to call her my friend.

On one particularly wonderful spring morning, she agreed to be my willing model for a sunrise beach photo session.  We arrived  just as the sky was a rich, deep blue, about 30 mins before the sun would meet the new day.  After a quick survey of the conditions and an overview of upcoming fun, we took our positions – me behind the camera and the lovely talent on the soft cool sandy beach.  The waves gently rolled in and out, adding to the feeling of the true paradise we were standing in.  As the sun slowly began its climb, Brittany found her “zone.”  Pose after pose, she showed grace, playfulness and even a little teasing look to taunt her would-be suiters.  I limited our session to only 1 hour which forced me to quickly make the images I knew she would enjoy.  It also allowed us to keep our growling stomachs in check as the smell of fresh bacon and pancakes wafted down the beach from a near by diner.

…and yes, the bacon and pancakes were amazing!  After all, you must have a treat to reward your hard work, right?

Photo Stuff:  Single frame, with off camera speedlite fill flash on the subject.  Processed in LR5

www.ChipBunnell.com

 

MATERNITY :: 7 Month Sunrise

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Maternity photography by Chip Bunnell

Click to Enlarge – See the Details

When I first learned the wonderful news of Emily’s pregnancy, I immediately thought how incredible it would be to capture her journey. She happily agreed to allow me to do a series of photographs, capturing the miracle of her changing body from month to month. Years from now, she will be able to share with her son how he grew and, for a very brief time, how they were literally one. A couple days ago, I had the privilege of continuing our project in a fun, very Florida location.

Several hours before the sunrise, we both awoke in our respective homes and prepared for a photo session on the beach. My goal was to capture her beauty in a natural place that she enjoys. Fueled by excitement, we met and found a wonderful stretch of sand. The air was calm and the seas flat. In the distance we could see the blackness of the sky turn to a dark blue, followed by oranges and yellows. After firing a few test shots, we went to work. All went smoothly as the mom-to-be smiled and posed more naturally than an experienced model. The sun rose quickly while we varied looks, outfits and scenery. Soon, we had a memory card full of images that would soon become precious works of art.

During our action packed morning, we kept hearing a strange, yet familiar sound in the distance. It started ever so faintly. As the clock ticked on, the sound became louder and more pronounced. Yes, it was the call of the wild pancake. The sound lead us to a wonderful local cafe with truly wonderful pancakes. Much to my surprise, I was even treated to this morning feast by my hard working talent. It just doesn’t get any better!

Each moment will only happen once – ever. The question is if we will notice that moment and truly live it to the fullest. It is an honor for me to be entrusted to capture a few special moments and help the memory last for generations to come. 7 months down and a lifetime to come; Emily will be an exceptional mother.

Single Frame, Processed in LR, PS and Topaz Clarity

www.ChipBunnell.com