Cariann and Andy's Engagement Session!

I wanted to post Cariann and Andy's photos tonight because...they're getting married tomorrow!!! We shot their engagement session on July 5th at Robert Moses Beach and the Fire Island Lighthouse. Every single amazing element that could have been present definitely was! You'll see for yourself, but during out shoot we encountered great weather, a stunning sunset, a couple of run ins with some deer, fireworks in the distance (not close enough to get them in the photos, but still awesome!), and an AMAZING moon! We kept shooting well into the night (my husband actually called to see where I was!) because the moon was casting such an amazing glow, and the building around the lighthouse provided us with even more amazing lighting.

Shooting with Cariann and Andy was like I was shooting with friends I've known for years! We have some common bonds and were talking and laughing the entire time. I had such a great time with this couple. I can't wait for tomorrow! See you two in a few hours to capture you exchanging your I dos!!!!!!!!

(don't forget--click to enlarge!)

Jen & Kevin's Engagement Session!

Jen and Kevin were the lucky winners of my Valentine's Day free engagement session contest! They sent me a really sweet story about their relationship that was incredibly moving.

These two decided to have their shoot at Avalon Park & Preserve in Stony Brook, Long Island. I had never been there before, and was totally blown away! This park is absolutely gorgeous. It has beautiful paths, bridges, boardwalks, and even a labyrinth! There's also a big beautiful lake, which made a great backdrop. It was hard to find a spot that wasn't gorgeous!

Jen and Kevin were so much fun to shoot. They were one of those couples that listens to all of my crazy requests without staring at me as if to say "Seriously?" Their connection was undeniable, and I love the way Kevin kept Jen laughing throughout the shoot.

Here are some of my favorite shots. Enjoy!!!








This little guy ran into our path while we were heading to the lake...

Catherine and Eirik's Engagement Session!

For this shoot, I'm going to start at the end...After we *almost* finished up with the shoot, we were walking along the boardwalk to head back to our cars. Eirik and I were discussing his interest in photography, and he asked me what I liked about wedding photography. Though I knew the answer, it was the first time a client had ever asked me. The answer? It's simple. I love love. I love being around it, I love capturing it with my camera. I love being in love and being near love. Weddings are emotional for me, and I try to let that emotion come across in the photos I take. I feel the same way about engagement sessions. It's just me there, watching this couple so madly in love...preparing to exchange vows and declare their love for one another, and celebrating that excitement right in front of my very eyes (and lenses!). It's such an awesome feeling to be surrounded by so much love all the time. Every shoot I do reminds me of my husband and I, and there's an instant connection to the couple I'm shooting-a connection I want nothing more than to capture. And that's kind of the theme of this post.

I've selected a lot of images of Catherine and Eirik kissing, though I've got tons of shots of them smiling, looking at the camera, looking at the ocean, etc... But I thought the love and kissing theme was perfect for them. These two were so much fun to watch! They each got a little smirk on their faces each time I asked them to kiss, and in a lot of shots you can see that they're still smiling. Even though it was a bit chilly, and somehow I was the only one to get soaked(!), I had an absolute blast with these two! All my best to you both!!

Enjoy! And as always, don't forget to click to enlarge the images (I promise with my new blog, you won't have to!)
















And here's what happened after our stroll on the boardwalk...As we were walking into the parking lot, I was struck by the lighting in this tunnel against the bright blue sky. These are the results:

Contest Reminder!!

First I just wanted to remind everyone that my contest for FREE engagement photography ends in 2 weeks!! Make sure to skip down a few posts or click here for the details and enter as soon as possible! Spread the word!

Just a few favorites from recent shoots (click to enlarge):

Time for a New Contest!

I know it's hard to believe, but Valentine's day is less than a month away! With it being my favorite holiday, I figured I'd celebrate with a contest! The grand prize? A FREE engagement session with yours truly!

The details:

Do you know someone deserving of a free engagement session? Do you think YOU deserve one? Tell me why! Send me an email at PiconePictures@gmail.com nominating a couple (and yes, the couple can be you and your fiance!). Let me know why this couple deserves the shoot, what the ideal location would be for the shoot, any creative ideas you may have, or whatever you think is best! Feel free to tell me about the couple, what they like to do, how they met, when the wedding is...anything goes! There is no limit to what you can include. Make it fun and be creative! You don't have to include a photo, but feel free if you want to. Also, make sure to include your address (or the couple's address if nominating someone else) in case you win! My favorite stories may just end up on the blog!

Judging:

I will be judging this one all on my own! Location for shoot will be discussed with winner, some restrictions do apply. Winners of past contests, as well as anyone who has received a free shoot from me in the past, are not eligible. But don't worry, there will be more contests in the future!

Prizes:

The prizes will be announced on Valentine's Day! The winning couples will be sent gift certificates via USPS for their prizes!

Grand Prize:
-One 2-hour long engagement session with Amanda Picone, and a DVD of all images (edited as needed)

First Prize:
-One $100 gift certificate good toward an engagement session with Amanda Picone

Second Prize:
-One $75 gift certificate good toward an engagement session with Amanda Picone

Third Prize:
-One $50 gift certificate good toward an engagement session with Amanda Picone


And one final note..............

I am now taking bookings for Spring and Summer 2009 engagement sessions!!! And I'm feeling rather generous today...SO...

For all sessions booked before March 1st, 2009 (session can occur ANY TIME in 2009, you just need to reserve a date by 3/1/09), I am offering special pricing!!

2 hour session with DVD of all images: $200
4 hour session with DVD of all images: $350
-Add on a 20 page custom hardcover photo book for an additional $100
-Inquire about special pricing on all add-ons (save the dates, sign in posters, guest books, table numbers, etc...)

Effective March 1st the price of these sessions will be:
2 hour session with DVD of all images: $250
4 hour session with DVD of all images: $400

So book early for the best deals, and to secure the best dates!!

GOOD LUCK to everyone entering! Can't wait to read your stories!

Dolly & Kevin

When Dolly and Kevin told me they wanted to start off their shoot at the LOVE statue, I was really excited. We then moved up to a few spots in Central Park. No matter how many times I shoot there, I always love it! It was a bit chilly, but Dolly and Kevin were good sports!! These two are getting married in just a couple of weeks in India, so this was kind of a last minute shoot. I had a great time with them, and wish them all the best for their upcoming wedding!

Finally got to get some photos at the LOVE statue!


My favorite bridge in the park...look at that reflection!


Dolly wanted to get some photos in a tunnel, and this one has the greatest shape!


I love the way the arch frames them on the step...so romantic!


The jump was Kevin's idea. Turned out great!


Stop! In the name of love....Okay, fine, I'll stop with the cheesy jokes!




I couldn't pick a favorite of these three, so I'll show you all of them :)




How cute are they?


One more shot on the steps by Bethesda Fountain...


More photos to come soon!