Last Tuesday evening, National Fatherhood Initiative hosted its Fatherhood Awards Gala in Washington, D.C.

I've photographed this event since 2005, and always enjoyed myself. Photographing an event like that presents a technical challenge and unique pressures, similar to that of a wedding: low light, active subjects, and a one-time-only chance to catch the moment.

Taking pictures of people while giving speeches presents a unique challenge: you want to catch the person talking, but not in a part of a sentence where their mouth appears odd or makes them look awkward. And some folks have more dynamic speaking faces than others, which you want to exploit whenever possible. This requires listening to what they're saying, and also reading their body language to anticipate when they might next move their hand a certain way, or even turn their head towards or away from the camera.

Event photography, for me, is people-watching on steroids.

For those who are interested, you can view a small gallery of the photographs, and see for yourself!

This past Saturday, on a gorgeous day in downtown Annapolis, Danielle and Arthur tied the knot at St. Mary's Church.

After the ceremony and the family portraits, the couple, bridal party, and I, wandered through the busy downtown streets. People shouted their congratulations. Young girls, especially, excitedly pointed to Danielle and oohed over her dress.

We dismissed the bridal party, and then I had a few moments alone with the couple in the backyard garden at a historic house. Arthur and Danielle were so very low-key and fun to be around. They were up for almost anything, and took direction very eagerly and naturally.

It's so marvelous to be a part of someone's special day, especially when they're relaxed and enjoying themselves; that energy transfers to the pictures while at the same time helping to make the day a beautiful memory.

Remember Alex and Jay?

They tied the knot!

I witnessed a beautiful Catholic ceremony, followed by shenanigans on Federal Hill, and then a lovely indoor/outdoor reception at the Evergreen House.

My favorite shots, of course, are the ones taken of Alex and Jay on Federal Hill, when they had the chance to enjoy each other and celebrate their nuptials. In spite of the heat (it was nearly 90 degrees), the whole bridal party held up well on the hill.

And I must say, I witnessed one of the most energetic and lively receptions I've ever been to; lots of fun was had by all (including me!).

Ladies and Gentlemen, like I told you before, my Portraits of Light series, (viewable here), is now up at Yellow Dog Tavern.

So, come one, come all, to the official opening on Tuesday, September 16th, 6-8pm.

I even wrote a press release and created an Evite for people to attend. Oh yeah, I hit Facebook too. YES, I am that organized.

So I'm hoping a lot of folks will show up next Tuesday evening--it's bound to be fun. Plus, you get to meet Ruthie, who will be tagging along in the baby sling. She's cute.

Benjamin & Kim had a wedding in the Bahamas. I didn't get to go (boooooo), and neither did some of their beloved family members (boooooo), but these two wonderful lovebirds threw their family a wicked killer reception at Centennial Park in Columbia, renting out an entire pavilion, and decking it out with amazing elegance.

Everything was so scrumptious-looking, I wanted to eat it! The afternoon was heavy with humidity and the grass was wet from rain all week, but the sun stayed out and shone happily upon everyone that day.

Ben and Kim had a second cake to cut and celebrate (made by a neighbor), their dog had a little too much fun romping in the mud, and they created orange-flavored candy table full of old-fashioned goodness for favors for everyone! Too sweet!

Being the adventurous people they are, Kim and Ben were up for a little walk around the slightly muddy field; I took some quick portraits before we walked over to the gaming area for some horseshoes.

I'm no good at horseshoes, but it's fun to photograph!

Lastly, Ben and Kim danced their "first" dance again together, complete with choreography! Man, these guys were good. And their family all watched with love as they embraced tenderly.

Thanks for making me a part of your celebration guys! Many years of bliss to you.