SweetBee Buzz

We've moved!!!

2011-12-20T05:11:00.001-08:00

That's right... we've moved!!!!

SweetBee Photography has a new home!

Update your bookmarks, your readers, your feeds!

Do whatever you have to do and see all of the exciting things that are coming at www.sweetbeephotography.com/blog !!

A little peek at a holiday minis...

2011-11-09T17:02:00.000-08:00

Don't you just want to steal him?

And to think when I saw him this year he was just this big!!

This past weekend was so fun to see some of my favorites!

We still have a few spaces available this weekend so email me if you would like a slot!

I can just feel the holidays around the corner:)

Halloween Wrap-Up

2011-11-01T20:26:00.000-07:00

Halloween has to be one of my favorite holidays. Why is it my favorite? Because along with the Fourth of July...yes there is something in common here... it has no great expectations. It is just a holiday you get to enjoy for the candy and fun. Halloween this year was especially fun. Not only did I thoroughly enjoy my daughter, but I also was able to participate in this super fun shoot with Libby Lane Press. Nicolle designed this awesome crow inspired shoot which was featured on the amazing Amy Atlas' blog, as part of her Halloweekend Countdown. Check out the feature here!

After much anticipation...

2011-10-28T07:58:00.000-07:00

Mini Sessions are here!

I am excited to announce Sweetbees Holiday Mini Sessions!

I have had numerous requests for holiday photo sessions over the past few weeks. As a result, I have partnered with the talented Nicolle, from Libby Lane Press to make a weekend out of it!

These sessions are perfect to capture your updated family photo and to get a

jump start on your holiday to-do list!

Sessions will be held in Gaithersburg, MD and at Fletcher's Boat House in Washington, DC. We will be at Fletcher's Boat House on Saturday and Gaitherburg, MD Sunday.

Sessions will begin at 9:00AM and occur in 30 minute intervals.

Spots have already started filling so please contact me by email or phone to see what is available.

All sessions will include a disc of edited image, as well as a custom-designed holiday card.

Additional print packages and sample cards will be on-site for selection.

We look forward to seeing everyone there!

Happy Holidays!!

Sweet Moments

2011-10-13T21:37:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the moments in between posed shots, end up being the sweetest.

I was lucky to be able to witness these moments...and to call these two(three) my family.

Lindsay and Kurt

2011-09-12T19:28:00.000-07:00

I met Lindsay and Kurt for their beautiful engagement session at Black Ankle Vineyard in Mount Airy, MD. Not only was this couple absolutely stunning, but they were such a blast to photograph. Lindsay is so laid back and fun loving and was up for anything! I can't wait for their gorgeous winter wedding in January! Congratulations and thanks for such a great day Lindsay and Kurt!

Ginny and Dave

2011-09-02T19:38:00.000-07:00

One hot summer day, I met Ginny and Dave in Arlington for a fun QueenBee session. There new little bundle of joy was fast approaching and they were eager to get some photos! I was particularly excited because Ginny is a good friend of mine from my first job out of college and was one of the first people to know about SweetBee! It was fun to capture this exciting time for her and Dave and I am super happy to share there sweet little boys pictures soon! Congrats Ginny and Dave!

Taylor and Madison

2011-08-10T15:25:00.000-07:00

I recently met these sweet girls and their parents for a session at Baker Park in Frederick, MD. All personality, they were a little camera shy at first. After a few fairy tales and some egging on by Mom, they eventually decided to ham it up! (Way to go Mom!) There was so much I loved about how this session turned out- the colors, the gorgeous curly blonde hair, and the obvious adoration that they have for their Mom! It was a great morning. Thanks girls!

Maisie Blair

2011-08-01T19:22:00.000-07:00

Meet Maisie Blair. Affectionately referred to as Maisie B., she is one of my most anticipated babies this year. This is because her mom and I are long time friends and were able to speculate about the arrival of little ones together. Like my husband and I, Maisie's parents didn't find out she was a girl until she arrived. That made it even more fun to speculate once Adalynn was born if she would have a new best friend or a crush;) I couldn't be more excited that Maisie is here and that Adalynn has a new friend! Congratulations Lee Family!!

Coming Up: Maisie Blair

2011-07-31T09:55:00.000-07:00

Miss Ellie

2011-07-21T15:57:00.000-07:00

I met Miss Ellie for her first birthday. This little girl was so much fun. Her parents wanted photos at a park they used to live near in northwest DC. Not only did I have fun exploring the park for the first time, but it's clear this little one did too. Happy Birthday Ellie!

Coming Up: Miss Ellie

2011-07-15T06:57:00.001-07:00

Jenna and Chris at McDaniel

2011-07-11T15:28:00.000-07:00

Jenna and Chris met at McDaniel College in Westminster, MD. It only seemed fitting for them that they return to their alma mater and go back to the very spots they met. This session was a fun one for me because not only were Jenna and Chris super fun, but Jenna is a dear friend. She and I sang in gospel choir while we were at McDaniel and she made my wedding day special with her amazing voice. I am so excited that I will have the privilege of capturing her special day for her.

Can't wait to celebrate with you Jenna & Chris!

Little Joshua

2011-07-08T07:58:00.000-07:00

You may remember Joshua's parents from this fun session. It was so great to see them again with their new addition. The DC summer weather proved perfect for lulling this little one to sleep so we could sneak in some outdoor shots. Congrats Tanya and Chris. He is beautiful!

My Husband

2011-06-15T06:48:00.000-07:00

It is no secret that I am the biggest fan my husband Sean and his recent guest blog at the National Fatherhood Initiative explains why. I think he is just the best.

Read the post here.

Adalynn Elizabeth

2011-06-09T19:19:00.000-07:00

Meet my beautiful daughter, Adalynn Elizabeth:)

I am so in love.

Thank you to my amazing husband for helping

me to capture these and more importantly, for being an amazing dad:)

A little peek...

2011-06-06T16:24:00.000-07:00

More of Miss Adalynn to come this week.

Finding the Perfect Photo

2011-05-19T11:40:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here searching through the photos from the first week of my little girl's life. I am trying to find just what photo captures her perfectly to introduce her to the world. I have not done her official photo session yet, but you can bet, regardless of a 22 hour labor and a c-section I have had my camera in hand and I still want to show her off.

I have an entirely new perspective on motherhood and what all my moms go through in prepping for that perfect picture. I know I am lucky to be able to photograph my own daughter, but I still have the nerves and anxiety of getting her together and finding that perfect photo.

My husband and I had just a few hours of sleep last night. We of course want the baby to sleep, and when she is sleeping it means we should be sleeping too. I am sore, exhausted, emotional and wanting to savor every second of her tininess. I have a whole new respect for what my moms do when they let me into their homes to try and capture that perfect moment and for that I am very thankful.

In the end, I know it's not perfection that will matter to me and the "perfect" photo I often think I created for my client is not their favorite photo at all. It's really just about capturing that real moment in time that is personal and means something to each family.

The photo above was done just before dinner last night. It was done in the middle of our living room after she had eaten with no fancy lighting, background or outfits. I love how happy she looks and how my husband's hands cradle her and push her forward as if to say "Here she is world." That is what it is all about.

Adalynn Elizabeth DeFrehn was born May 12th, 2011 at 5:55AM.

She was 8lbs 4oz. and 20 inches long.

It's time!

2011-05-10T11:09:00.000-07:00

It's time!

Tomorrow this little one will be entering the world. I can't believe the day is finally here. It has been such a journey to experience with you all and I am excited to be able to join the ranks of motherhood. I will be taking time to enjoy this sweet little face in the next few weeks, but will be back in action at the end of June. Please feel free to email me and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

Thank you all for your kind words and support and certainly be on the look out for photos:)

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T11:47:00.000-07:00

To all the amazing mothers of the world and especially my gorgeous QueenBees,

Thank you for all you do to make your little ones days brighter and dreams sweeter.

I can't wait to join you.

Happy Mother's Day!

A little London in Honor of the Royal Wedding

2011-04-29T11:46:00.000-07:00

In honor of the royal wedding today, I thought this super sweet maternity session would be appropriate.

Tanya and her husband moved here from the UK in November.

She was eager to capture document her pregnancy so her family back home (especially her mom or "mum") could see how gorgeous she is.

We started at their beautiful home in Georgetown and then headed out to explore the town a bit.

I loved how relaxed and comfortable they were and

I can't wait until the little one arrives in the next few weeks!!

Thanks for a fun day Tanya and Chris!

Carnival of Chocolates to Benefit The Dwelling Place

2011-04-28T11:43:00.000-07:00

Every year, The Dwelling Place hosts it's annual Carnival of Chocolates. The Dwelling Place is a local Montgomery County non-profit that provides transitional housing opportunities and support services for families experiencing homelessness. My amazing husband spent several years as the President for this organization and currently sits on the board, so it is an organization that is near and dear to our hearts.

The Carnival of Chocolates is a night of chocolate confections and hors d'oeuvres donated by the area's top restaurants, bakeries and caterers. To make it even better, you spend the evening bidding on great auction items and drinking unlimited champagne!

This year, in the current baby state, I will not be able to attend. I am excited however, to contribute a Whole Hive Session to this fantastic event!

For more information on attending or to learn more about The Dwelling Place, go to www.dwellingplaceinc.org

Meredith and Steve Part Two: Fun in the Rain

2011-04-27T14:15:00.000-07:00

A few weeks before Meredith's wedding, she called me and told me she had just bought boots and umbrellas in case it would rain. It was a sunny day then and rain seemed impossible. However, Meredith's planning paid off. When it rained on this bride, she grabbed her umbrella and her bridesmaids and headed outside for pictures anyways. Not only was this bride stunning, but she was super fun to photograph in the rain. She and Steve were surrounded by their friends and family as they danced the night away and despite the rain, the day was absolutely amazing.

Meredith and Steve, I am so happy for you. In the words of your Dad,

"May your marriage be something you love, crave and just can't get enough of."

Best to you both.

Make-up: Aimie Decker Beauty
Flowers: Blossom & Basket Boutique

Meredith and Steve Part One: It's All About The Bride

2011-04-26T14:39:00.000-07:00

You may remember Meredith and Steve from this super sweet engagement session. Meredith is a sorority sister of mine from college and I was so excited when she asked me to photograph her wedding. She was such an absolutely STUNNING bride. There was no doubt in my mind that she deserved a post of her own...isn't it all about the bride anyways? Meredith you were beautiful.

Stay tuned for more of this fun wedding.

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T17:14:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful Easter!

Skinny Jeans

2011-04-20T10:23:00.000-07:00

I met Aiden last year as SweetBee was just really starting. You may remember him as Buzz Lightyear or the one who I would affectionately refer to as "The kid with the glasses!!" (I have a soft spot for kids with glasses. It's just too cute.) I couldn't get enough of Aiden last year.

Now a year later, and a year older, I still can't get enough him. He is all personality. When the first thing out of his mouth was "I can't wait to get a picture in my skinny jeans!" I knew it was going to be a great session! Thanks Aiden for such a fun day!

BJ and Merlynn

2011-04-18T11:48:00.000-07:00

I met BJ almost 15 years ago when we were both kids- he was playing the cello and I was giving speeches. BJ and I have been lucky to be able to stay in touch over the years, so I was extremely excited when his fiancee asked me to photograph their wedding.

The couple was surrounded by family and friends from around the world for their ceremony at the George Washington Memorial in Alexandria, VA.

Here are just a few from the day that show just how gorgeous this couple is.

Congratulations you two! Wishing you a lifetime of happiness together.

Aimee

2011-04-17T17:05:00.000-07:00

I met Aimee and Scott down at the Cherry Blossoms. Cherry Blossom season is always busy in DC and this Saturday was no exception. As beautiful as the Cherry Blossoms were, I couldn't find a photo where Aimee's glow didn't demand all the cameras attention. She was stunning.

Congratulations Aimee and Scott! I can't wait to meet your new bundle of joy!

Disappearing

2011-04-03T19:33:00.000-07:00

I have not been good about taking photos of my own belly over the past few months, but I took this a few weeks ago as my toes were disappearing. Only my manicurist can see them now;)
Just a few more weeks to go.

Precious little Jack

2011-03-28T19:23:00.000-07:00

From the smile to the cheeks...so precious.

It's going to be amazing.

2011-03-28T18:46:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, I was lucky to have two amazing maternity sessions with two gorgeous queenbees. Both are due within weeks of me (one within days). Beyond the conversation about pregnancy and preparation, there was this unspoken understanding. It was an understanding of "I know what you are going through. I know how excited you are. I know how nervous you are. It's going to be amazing." It is a different experience for me photographing expectant moms now that I have been where they are. I understand the preparation and the anticipation, but it even more special that I will get to experience their first pregnancies and meet their babies at the same time I get to meet my own.

I can't believe we get to meet these little tiny beings we have been carrying for nine months in just a few weeks...it's going to be amazing.

So tiny and sweet.

2011-03-02T18:47:00.000-08:00

You just can't get enough of the sweetness.

One Happy Family

2011-02-24T16:49:00.000-08:00

This is one happy family.

A large part of that is because the dad is involved, responsible and committed. These are the three things National Fatherhood Initiative believes every child deserves from their father. When I am not photographing fun families like these, I am working to help the 24 million children in the US who are growing up without a dad like this. This dad is actually my boss:) If you don't know about the National Fatherhood Initiative then you must check it out. It will help you to be a better dad, your husband to be a better dad and make a difference in the lives of the children growing up without a father in their lives.

Thanks for such a fun session DiCaro Family:)

Film.

2011-01-30T14:47:00.000-08:00

Something about it makes everything seem whimsical and warm.

(Especially when they are shots of summer you decide to develop in January.)

Brand new.

2011-01-26T15:49:00.001-08:00

This is beautiful little Max. He is the son of this gorgeous queenbee.

He is so sweet and perfect, even when he cries.

Welcome to the world Max.

Around the corner...

2011-01-19T15:42:00.000-08:00

Spring is going to be here before we know it. And I can feel the warm weather calling my name. This weekend, I met my friend, and gorgeous bride-to-be, for a walk through of the Ceresville Mansion for her upcoming wedding. April will certainly be much different than three of us with coffee in hand trudging through snow. I can't wait!

Expectant Happiness

2011-01-18T17:09:00.000-08:00

There are days when I do not want sessions to end. This was one of them.

Sneak peek: Max and Looking Ahead

2010-12-31T13:19:00.000-08:00

Today, I finished the year photographing this sweet little newborn, Max. At 12 days old, his sweet little face was such a great reminder of how precious life is. It was a great way to end a whirlwind of a year. I am so thankful for each of the families I have met this year. I never imagined that so many people would invite me into their lives to capture some of their happiest moments. They say the way you head into the new year is how you will end the next. With a baby on the way, if that means spending the day with a little one and photographing lots, I am certainly looking forward to 2011. Thank you all for such a wonderful year!

SweetBee Holiday Specials!

2010-12-01T16:26:00.000-08:00

Can anyone believe it is December already?! I hope everyone enjoyed their Thanksgiving. I just wanted to let everyone know about SweetBee's Holiday Specials. All current SweetBee families can enjoy 25% off their entire print orders from their 2010 sessions. In addition, if you book before December 31st, you can enjoy 25% off your 2011 session sitting fees. This is open to both old and new SweetBee families! And don't forget SweetBee Gift Certificates make a great holiday gift! I hope everyone enjoys the holiday season!

Introducing Senior Sessions: Courtney

2010-11-17T14:45:00.000-08:00

SweetBee is proud to introduce senior sessions! This year I have focused on photographing families and small children with the occasional wedding. Lot's of photographers add senior sessions their offerings so I decided to give it a whirl. Can I just tell you just how fun these sessions are!? So fun! Courtney came and interned for the non-profit I work at for a few weeks in August (yes I know...I am behind in blogging) and it was obvious she was just too gorgeous not to photograph. Her smile and fantastic sense of style made for a great combination! Senior sessions are so fun because teenagers aren't afraid to just be who they are with the camera. Let's be honest...by the time we are adults...we have mastered the perfect smile, the perfect chin out and we think we know what our best side is. Teenagers each have a unique sense of style and are who they are; a perfect combination for the camera. I look forward to many more senior sessions.

Thanks for such a fun session Courtney!

SweetBee Buzz: Baby DeFrehn

2010-10-24T15:06:00.000-07:00

For those of you who follow my blog, you may have realized that my posts have been few and far between over the past few months. There is a reason for this! I am extremely excited to announce, that Baby DeFrehn is on the way! My husband and I are expecting our first baby in May. Everything has been going smoothly, with the exception of my energy level, but I have "rounded" the first trimester corner and have started to get my energy back. From Christmas cards to senior sessions, the next few months are guaranteed to be busy, so make sure to check back for both SweetBee and baby updates!

Logan

2010-10-24T14:52:00.000-07:00

Logan is certainly the king of personality. He was a blast to photograph! His mom is a good friend of my husband and I's and she contacted me in June to set-up a session. It wasn't until October that she was in town from Philadelphia and we could finally get together, but boy was it worth the wait! Logan's eyes and cute personality stole she show! Thanks for such a fun day Logan!

Sneak Peek: Logan

2010-10-20T15:54:00.000-07:00

Elliot

2010-09-28T16:54:00.000-07:00

I met little Elliott and his family at Glen Echo Park. For those of you who haven't been I highly recommend it. We were there on a Saturday and there were lots of fun activities going on. It was the perfect place for a two year BumbleBee session. Elliott was everything you can imagine in a two year old...fun...energetic...and absolutely certain nobody could keep him from running all over the park. Elliott was determined to find every manhole in Glen Echo Park and make sure to stomp on it. Thankfully for him...and for me...his parents were all about capturing his little personality and up for a fun and relaxed session!

Sneak Peek: Elliot

2010-09-27T16:44:00.000-07:00

Meredith and Steve

2010-08-30T17:15:00.000-07:00

Meredith, like Lindsey, was another sorority sister of mine from college. She contacted me when she got engaged to photograph her wedding and I was thrilled! I love getting to know my clients, but it is something special when you get to photograph people who you have known over the years. We headed out to a beautiful area in Mt. Airy, MD just walking distance from their house. Meredith looked so beautiful and I adored her red shoes. I am so excited for you Meredith and Steve and I can't wait to document your big day!

Sneak Peek: Meredith and Steve

2010-08-29T16:33:00.000-07:00

Theresa

2010-08-04T17:33:00.000-07:00

As I write this, Theresa is currently celebrating the birth of her babies...yes...babiessss. Theresa is 8 months pregnant with twins in these pictures! I was lucky enough to meet Theresa and her husband Ben, the day before they moved to Louisville, KY. A previous client of mine had bought a QueenBee session as a baby shower gift (such a great idea!) and we were able to set-up a session on their last day in DC. Theresa and Ben were so fun to photograph at the "W" Hotel. When I left, I definitely felt sad that I didn't know them sooner. They are going to be such fun parents!! I can't wait to hear if these little ones are boys or girls. Best wish to you and your new additions Theresa and Ben!

Sneak Peek for Tomorrow: Theresa

2010-08-03T19:06:00.001-07:00

Part 2 of 2: Katherine and Juliette

2010-08-01T15:12:00.000-07:00

Juliette was born premature. When I first met her she was so tiny, her pacifier was almost wider than her tiny face. It was so great to see her again. One of my favorite parts about working with Katherine and Juliette's mom is that she really appreciates capturing every important moment of her sweet girls and is open to taking standard pictures in a different way. The outdoor lighting and scenery added a new twist for these pictures capturing Juliette in her Christening dress. Juliette has become such a pretty little baby that she even looks cute when she cries. Thanks so much Audrey for sharing your girls with me!

Part 1 of 2: Katherine and Juliette

2010-07-31T14:29:00.000-07:00

So in deciding what photos to include in this post of each of these sweet girls, I decided they each really deserved their own post. Katherine's photos captured everything about being two. She started off perfectly dressed and entirely sweet. Soon after she had ran around enough to require an outfit change and was focused on her crown and cat. As the older of the two, she enjoyed being the center of attention.

Sneak Peek for Tomorrow: Katherine and Juliette

2010-07-27T19:32:00.001-07:00

Jackson

2010-07-23T18:47:00.000-07:00

Ashley, like my previous post, was another one of my QueenBees. This was baby number two for her so needless to say, she was a pro! In June, her family welcomed little Jackson!! At 8lbs 13oz, Jackson wasn't so little, but definitely sweet. Ashley wanted both newborn shots and a whole hive family session. We headed to a local part and enjoyed the day. Thank you for sharing your family with me Ashley!

Sneak peek for tomorrow! Jackson

2010-07-22T17:59:00.000-07:00

Lauren and Hunter

2010-07-21T19:40:00.000-07:00

While on vacation, I was able to do a shoot with two of my favorites, Lauren and Hunter. For those new to SweetBee, Lauren is my sister-in-law and Hunter is my niece. You don't get to pick your family...and you certainly don't get to pick your sister-in-law, but I definitely hit the jack pot. Not only do I feel lucky to have another girl who married into the DeFrehn family, but I also feel lucky because I have someone that loves pictures as much as I do and is so extremely fun to photograph. For our first family vacation with me now an official DeFrehn (almost one year married) and little Hunter's first family beach trip, it was only appropriate that we document it with a photo session. I look forward to many more sessions to come! Love you both!

Atticus

2010-07-21T04:28:00.001-07:00

Atticus is the new addition for one of my favorite QueenBees, Sheri. You may remember my earlier session with Sheri and her husband Brian. On July 3rd, they welcomed little Atticus into the world. He was such a great sleepy baby for his session and gave me some great expressions. Congratulations Sheri and Brian, he is precious!

Vacation

2010-07-07T19:45:00.000-07:00

Need I say more? A few days at the beach to rest and recoup from quite a month means a lot of sessions about to come out. Check back for details! Until then enjoy this sweet shot of my adorable niece.

Lindsey and Rob's HunnyBee Session

2010-06-25T22:24:00.001-07:00

This session may seem strange knowing my specialty is children's photography. However, I every now and then let myself drift into the wedding world. This time, it was with a special person I wouldn't want to miss out on. Lindsey and I met during her freshman year of college. Not only did we grow into great friends, but she became my "little sister" during our sorority days. Of course I squealed, screamed and jumped for joy when they asked me to do their engagement session! So a few weeks ago, I headed out to meet them in downtown Frederick where we walked around the canal and historic buildings. Then we headed out to where Rob proposed. It was gorgeous! The day was so fun!!! Congrats Lindsey and Rob and thank you for letting me share such a great time with you both!!

Baby Tyler and Family

2010-06-23T05:41:00.000-07:00

Kristen was one of my QueenBees. She was so great for her QueenBee session that I shouldn't have been surprised that she would be amazing for little Tyler's ItsyBee session. At two weeks old, Tyler was beginning to get out of the sleepy baby phase and didn't want to sit still for his pictures. Both Kristen, and her husband were so patient waiting for the perfect shot. It was quite an entertaining morning. I loved both the way Tyler's ItsyBee photos came out as well as the Whole Hive photos of the family.

Kristen, thanks for sharing your beautiful family!

Tyler Sneak Peek

2010-06-22T20:57:00.001-07:00

A look at what's to come tomorrow, Sweet baby Tyler.

Sheri

2010-06-22T20:30:00.000-07:00

I met Sheri and her husband Brian in Old Town Alexandria for her QueenBee session. Though they have lived in the DC area for quite some time, they have only recently moved to Old Town and thought it would be fun to explore for our photo session. From the farmer's market, to the cobble stone streets and quaint shops it provided the perfect backdrop for us. Sheri was so fun to photograph. I can't wait to meet the new little one!!

Sheri Sneak Peek

2010-06-21T21:24:00.001-07:00

A look at what's to come tomorrow!

Sydney and Jordan

2010-06-21T17:01:00.000-07:00

I had been waiting for these beautiful girls for almost two months! My original session with Sydney and Jordan scheduled for back in April! But the rain kept it from happening...on several occasions! Finally we had a gorgeous day and it was certainly worth the wait! Thank Angela for sharing your two beautiful girls.

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T19:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day to all the counterparts to my amazing QueenBees. This weekend was a great weekend for photography. I worked on editing a session where I had photographed 4 year old twins and I took pictures of a new QueenBee with twins on the way!! Here is a sneak peek for tomorrows post.

Baby Rion

2010-06-13T20:15:00.000-07:00

Stephanie may look familiar to you. She was one of my favorite QueenBee sessions to date and you can find her on my SweetBee site. This new Mom gave birth to baby Rion just a few weeks ago. He is absolutely precious!!

Rion was just as easy going as his parents which made my job super easy.

It was so great to finally meet him! Congrats Stephanie and Eric!

Exciting Times Ahead

2010-06-06T20:08:00.000-07:00

SweetBee Photography has some exciting times ahead. I have been packed full of sessions and I am catching up on lots of things, but we have new packages, printing options and a fresh look.

Keep checking back for more sneak peeks, sessions and exciting news.

Summer 2010 is going to be great!

Take a lot of pictures...

2010-06-02T05:58:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows me knows two things...I take a lot of pictures...and I love my dogs. (Ok well maybe a third thing...I love my husband tons and think he is amazing.) But that third thing is kind of obvious. Two years ago my husband and I took in a little white dog. Her name was Abby...and she was a westie. I fell in love with westies when I lived in Budapest and wanted one when I came home to the states. It took some time to find the perfect dog, but she was certainly that...the perfect dog. I always took tons of pictures of Abby. Most often...the camera phone. What else would a camera phone be good for?? I always asked my husband to look at her...and to take more pictures. I loved her cute face so much. Yesterday Abby died tragically. I will miss her terribly. Last night, my husband and I went through our phones and laughed at all the silly pictures we had. Life seems so short and with only two years we feel cheated from enjoying a longer life with the little white dog. So today...love your animals...your friends and your family....enjoy the little moments and take a lot of pictures.

Happy Memorial Day!

2010-05-31T19:44:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial Day and thank you to all those who serve and have served! This weekend was a busy one! From editing, to shooting a wedding with Abby Jiu of Abby Jiu Photography, SweetBee Photography was busy. Today I managed to enjoy the warm weather and some time with my husband. Since last year we didn't move in until August, we never really got to enjoy the pool. Our friends Chris and Megan along with one of my favorite little Bumblers, Madelyn, joined us for a swim today. (Of course I had to take a few pictures!) Summer is definitely in the air and it's going to be a busy one!

Ashley and Family

2010-05-29T00:09:00.000-07:00

When Ashley and I were first discussing her QueenBee session it was back during the snow (hard to think of on these 90 degree days). Her exact words to me were, well let's wait so I can get a little bigger. Maternity photos are typically best around 6-8 months so this seemed all in line. I didn't realize just how much baby her tiny frame would come to hold when we finally met in May. At month nine, Ashley was glowing anticipating the arrival of little Jackson. With her husband and daughter, Colbie this session was both fun and sweet. I love the vibrant colors mixed with the playful atmosphere that little Colbie created. Congratulations Ashley and family. I can't wait to meet little Jackson!

Featured in Expecting Inside The Beltway

2010-05-24T18:48:00.001-07:00

Cara, blogger for Expecting Inside the Beltway, contacted me this weekend to ask if she could include me in an article about DC Maternity and Newborn Photographers. Of course I was both excited and flattered. She based who she included on ratings, price and location. I highly recommend checking out her blog. If you are an expecting, new or experienced Mom she has great info on DC doctors, articles about all the crazy things about pregnancy, and anything else you need to know along with a good laugh. Definitely a must read.

Thanks Cara for including SweetBee today!

Megan and Madelyn

2010-05-23T22:00:00.000-07:00

Madelyn made her appearance early on my blog. She happened to be one of the first little bees I photographed and I am enjoying watching her grow. Her Dad wanted a photo session for her Mom for Mother's Day (isn't that the best) and we headed over to Brookside Gardens with their amazing scenery! I love the brightness of these photos. Such a beautiful day!

Laura and Family

2010-05-23T21:39:00.001-07:00

I have known Laura for quite some time. When I was originally in search for QueenBee's to photograph, I turned to her to point me in the right direction, thus I was extremely excited when it was time for her QueenBee and Whole Hive session. We met at a local state park which has a beautiful peony garden. Laura and her husband currently have a sweet little boy named Bennet (who apparently like to do yard work...go figure) and they are expecting a sweet girl, Marie, in August. Congratulations Laura!

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T21:04:00.000-07:00

This weekend was a Mommy marathon with lots of sessions. It was such a blast. I literally laughed and cried my way through the weekend. From hugs, to images that made us all tear up a little, this was a weekend I will never forget. The images above are just a sneak peek of what we did and what you will be seeing in the coming week (And believe it or not I have one more Mom to document tomorrow!) To all the wonderful QueenBee's I have met through SweetBee and the Moms I worked with this weekend Happy Mother's Day!

And to my own Mom who is amazing and all the other strong women in my life...

Happy Mother's Day and thank you for all you do!

Lauren and Hunter

2010-05-07T17:41:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day weekend is here...and boy is it going to be a fun one!! Not only will I be celebrating with my own amazing mother and grandmother, but I will be capturing four different families in three days!!! In honor of new Mom's, the picture above is from a NYC visit to see my adorable 6 month old niece Hunter. Lauren was certainly the queen that day and Hunter the princess (as she always is;). I absolutely fell in love with the glowy feel and soft colors of these photos. QueenBee sessions always seem to have such a glow whether it is for a new, expecting or experienced Moms. This QueenBee session in particular is so fitting with such a great little princes. To all my QueenBees out there, enjoy your weekend-It's going to be a beautiful one!

The Gause Family

2010-05-03T20:36:00.000-07:00

I started talking to the Gause family a few months ago (when there was still snow...remember that?) and planning out a time when we could document their adorable children, Jillian and Jonas. Months later, we ended up with a perfect day in DC and Miss Jillian certainly stole the show! At one point I looked over at Jillian and she was smelling dandelions. Her Mom looked at me and said "Yea...basically anything she does is good for a picture." She couldn't have been more right! The entire day was both fun and really required no direction on my part. The entire family was so relaxed and it certainly shows in their pictures. Thanks for a great day Gause family!

The Dwelling Place: Carnival of Chocolates

2010-04-30T05:52:00.000-07:00

Every year, The Dwelling Place, a local non-profit that assists homeless families in the Montgomery County area, hosts the Carnival of Chocolates. The Carnival of Chocolates is their primary fundraiser. Local businesses donate their talents and services to create an evening of chocolate tasting and fun. SweetBee Photography is proud to donate a Whole Hive Session to this years event. If you do not have plans tonight then head out to Rockville's VisArts at 7:30PM. We look forward to seeing you there. Read more about the Dwelling Place and their mission at http://www.dwellingplaceinc.org/

Zaki

2010-04-29T20:28:00.001-07:00

As spring has sprung, the desire to head down to the Tidal Basin to see the Cherry Blossoms is one of my most popular requests. During a recent venture, I don't know what was more eye catching, the Cherry Blossoms, or little Zaki, trouncing around the paths of bustling tourists. This little guy is quite stunning, but has a personality that stands out above all else!

The Hill Family

2010-04-27T18:23:00.001-07:00

I was able to join the Hill Family to celebrate the birthday of their grandmother. It was very important to them to both document the day and capture such a fun stage of all the grandkids. Aside from being extremely warm and inviting, it was very clear what made this family stand out...their gorgeous blue eyes! Happy Birthday and thank you for sharing your family!

Welcome!

2010-04-26T14:20:00.000-07:00

Today I am proud to introduce SweetBee Photography and our new blog...SweetBee Buzz! This will be the place to follow along with what SweetBee Photography is up to on a regular basis. We hope you will follow along with us through all of our favorite moments, events, specials and everything else we love about life, babies, families and photography!