Award Winning Boston Wedding Photographer

Award Winning Boston Wedding Photographer serving Boston, Cape Cod, Newport and New England. Celebrated for her empathetic understanding, meticulous organization and impeccable time management, Deborah brings a distinctive collaborative approach to her craft.

Wedding Love

The First Look

**Disclaimer: I do feel the need for a disclaimer before I dive into this long post. While I do have strong opinions about a First Look, I completely understand that it is not for every couple. People have varying thoughts, ideas and traditions about what a wedding day should look like. And though I'll say it again later in the post I'm going to say it here before we begin: I would NEVER force a couple to have a First Look. While I do have specific opinions about the First Look, at the end of the day YOU have a specific vision for your wedding day, a vision that is IMPORTANT to protect. As a Bride turned photographer my hope is only to educate you on the First Look to help you make a decision that is right for you.**

With that out of the way, let's begin! Here's a candid First Look from this Liz and Pat's wedding this past weekend. The Groom could not have been any more adorable than when he saw his Bride!

I want to tell you a story. A story about my wedding experience.

Dave and I were married in 2006. I was 22 and he was 25. I was fresh out of college (by a few months) and he had just finished his first year at GE. We were EAGER to get married. We planned our wedding on a budget and did the best we could. We were some of the first of our friends to tie the knot and I remember thinking that I had no idea what I was doing. I just wanted to be married.

When it came to planning out the timeline of our day, I didn't even give it a thought. I knew when the ceremony would start and stop and when the cocktail hour would begin. My poor photographer as I think back on it now! He did the best he could with what little we (and the thunder-storming weather) gave him. We did everything in a traditional manner from our attire to our vows to not seeing each other before the ceremony.

Because THAT'S just what you did. There was no such thing as First Look (back in the days of 2006 ;)). We didn't even know that was an option.

This is how our "First Look" unfolded. I was a ball of nerves before the ceremony. I was a WRECK. And all that was getting me through was knowing that I would see Dave at the end of that aisle. That we would have "THAT MOMENT". Ya know some how time would magically stop, all Zach Morris style, and we would speak to each other the things that we were feeling. Well guess what, that didn't happen. Because do things ever go exactly the way you imagine them? Things like, my dress getting stuck in the doorway, my dad and I barely fitting down the aisle, the snot pouring from my nose, the makeup running down my face. As I brought my eyes to Dave to have our MOMENT, there was the look I'll never forget. HE WAS FROWNING. Dave was SO nervous that he forgot to smile. His best man had to lean over and nudge him, "Don't forget to smile!" Before I knew it I was at the end of the aisle and the ceremony began. No words were spoken to each other except for a whispered "You are beautiful" and we were off. That magical moment, yea that didn't exactly happen.

What did happen though was my Father walking me down the aisle telling me "Let's do this!" What happened was a beautiful moment as my Father gave me away. What happened was Dave came and replaced my Father's arm with his and walked me to the alter. Those moments were beautiful and memorable and ones I'll never forget. But believe you me there was no magical Zach Morris style moment for Dave and I.

If I could go back in time to the 22 year old bride getting married, I would have begged her to consider having a First Look. I would have told her about how it would save her timeline. I would tell her how seeing her groom BEFORE the ceremony would calm her nerves and give her a confidence of "Let's do this!" I would tell her how she would have amazing pictures in her album of her and husband, embracing one another instead of just the afforded "posed" shots. I would tell her just how special being able to speak to each other the things your heart is feeling really is. In short I would tell her "Have a First Look."

Now, a lot of people will say that having a First Look takes away from that first time moment when you see each other as you walk down the aisle. And I have to be blunt. I disagree. Because that moment as you walk down the aisle, nothing can compare to that. That moment when your Dad gives you away to your husband is a special moment in of itself and a First Look is not meant to replace that. A First Look is not meant to replace that moment when your Groom watches his Bride make her way towards him. A First Look is only meant to compliment those moments. And while I know that it's hard to understand that NOW, trust me. Whether you see each other before the ceremony or as you are walking down the aisle, those moments are both equally special and beautiful and moments you will never forget.

Still with me?:) Let's fast forward from 2006 to 2011. Because Dave and I had a RAINY wedding day, because our timeline didn't afford many pictures, because we didn't have a First Look, our wedding day images are not truly indicative of us. We were always longing for images that truly represented who we are as couple. So as an anniversary present Dave arranged for one of my favorite photographers Katelyn to come to New England and "retake" our bridal portraits. And guess what we decided to do: Have a First Look.

You may ask WHY we decided to have a First Look. Dave and I had been married for five years at this point. He'd seen me at my best and he'd seen me at my worst. My friends, the mystery was LONG gone. Besides it's not like he hadn't seen me in my wedding dress before! Why would we have a First Look??

Because a First Look is NOT about when you see each other or how many pictures you can take before the Ceremony. It's about HOW you feel as your Groom watches you come around the corner. It's about the butterflies dancing in your stomach as you watch the smile on his face. It's about falling into his arms as you share in a moment you'll never for get. It's about having the TIME to speak to another what's on your heart. It's about creating the space and the time to express to one another how you truly feel. That is what a First Look is meant to do. And it's just as special on your wedding day as it is five years later. That moment NEVER changes because it's not centered around a tradition, it's centered around YOU.

As I look at this picture, I remember exactly what I was thinking as I walked down those steps. I felt like a little school girl, wondering if the boy I liked thought I was pretty. I remember the butterflies dancing in my stomach as I made my way to him. I remember falling into his arms and having a moment we NEVER shared on our wedding day. Five years later it was as if we were reliving our wedding day, making a memory we never had the chance to create. This is the moment I realized just how special the First Look truly is. On the wedding day or five years later.

Look at his face! Look at that smile! After five years of marriage and he STILL looks at me that way! Swoon;)

I'd like to make one more point before I get off my First Look soap box. Dave and I are very traditional people. So much so that we didn't live together before we got married. We did almost everything in a traditional way from our courtship, to engagement even down to our wedding day. And if I were to get married again today, I would do it all the same. Except for one thing, I would have a First Look. If you are a Bride or Groom who wants to have a traditional wedding, I understand! I was that Bride too! But I hope that what I've shared with you will help change your perception of what a First Look is and how that CAN fit into your traditional wedding day without taking away from the traditions that are so important to you. Remember a First Look doesn't take away, it only enhances.

I'll end by saying that I would NEVER force a couple to have a First Look. While I do have specific opinions about the First Look, at the end of the day you have a specific vision for your wedding day, a vision that is important to protect. As a Bride turned photographer my hope is only to educate you on the First Look to help you make a decision that is right for you.

For us a First Look, even five years later, was incredibly special. In that moment I fell in love with Dave all over again. It's a moment I'll cherish forever. It's moment that was captured by a camera to be relived for years to come.

Did you have a First Look? What was your experience like? Are you considering having a First Look? I'd love to hear your story in the comments below!

July's Self Portrait : A Look Behind The Scenes

It's behind the scenes for this month's self portrait. Mostly because I needed to multi-task. As in Dave take my picture while I answer emails. As in I don't have time to put on makeup so don't shoot my face. As in I might as well take a picture of what life is really like right now.

It's that time of year where I feel as is my life is swirling around me and I'm just trying to keep up. As a photographer I don't just photograph amazing weddings and fabulous engagement sessions, I also have to run a business. It's a lot of work. And while I can't dream of doing anything else, there are times, like this month, where life just swirls.

So June and July have been a month of weddings and engagements and portraits. But also a lot of emails, blogging, Quickbooks, budgeting, coffee runs and upkeep. Yet as I battle with my computer I can't help but smile. Sweet, slobbery kisses are given to my knee. And I remember that it's all worth it. I love this job and the freedom is gives me. To work from home, to take my dog for a walk, and most of all, to enjoy puppy kisses in the middle of the work day. Happy Weekend everyone!

June Self Portrait

A Look Behind the Scenes

Jon & Emma's Copley Square Engagement

Without much expectation Jon and Emma looked to me for guidance when it came to the specific locations for their Boston engagement session. "Show us your Boston," they told me. A photographer's dream come true, I thought! Immediately I got to work thinking of all the wonderful and fabulous locations that I would show them. My secret little spots that I loved. I would show them my Boston. But as the weekend neared the weather took a turn for the worst. Because Emma and Jon were visiting for just a few short days there was no time to reschedule. We would have to make due. Suddenly my grand ideas and secret spots flew out the window. It would turn out to be an afternoon of extremes and nothing that I expected!

First we battled the heat. The sun was BRIGHT and the humidity was HIGH. We tried to find shade the best we could and made the best of what the weather dealt us. Though we were dying in the oppressive heat, secretly I was overjoyed it wasn't raining. I showed Emma and Jon around Copley Square and Trinity Church in all it's touristy glory. And despite having been to this area of the city a hundred times over, we made it our own that afternoon.

With an outfit change I brought my sweaty but amazing couple to the Boston Public Library. A hidden gem I called it, lauding it's marble staircase, beautiful courtyard and quaint library. I couldn't wait to show Emma and Jon one of my favorite spots in Boston. But as they were quickly changing in the bathroom my worst fears came to life. An unruly security guard began yelling for everyone to get out, the library was closing. This can't be happening I thought. I racked my brain thinking of some place that would be just as wonderful as the Library trying to get Emma and Jon away from the unruly security guard as quickly as possible. Suddenly my Boston wasn't looking so great.

As we (and many others) were hurried out of the library we were met with a gruesome looking sky. In a matter of minutes the weather had turned from hot and humid to dark and stormy. Thunder and lightning filled the sky and we RAN for cover. Only to find ourselves, and many others, seeking shelter in the beautiful, but now crowded, Fairmont Copley. We snuck around for a few photos and then decided to make the rainy trek back to the parking garage.

A church, a closed library, a hotel and a parking garage. That is my Boston. And while the conditions weren't perfect, we made it work. Emma and Jon rolled with the punches (and the weather) and made even a dimly lit, gloomy parking garage look fabulous. I can't thank you both enough for trusting in me and being so willing to go where I suggested, even if it seemed crazy. And the weather? Well this is New England after-all, it does what it wants. We take what it gives us and make it fabulous!

To view more of Jon and Emma's images, click here.

deborah zoe photography boston engagement session copley square engagement session boston public library engagement session boston wedding0001

I've got some stylish grooms who love Bonobos! Jon is the second groom of the month to sport these fun shorts!

Wedding Tresses did an amazing job with Emma's hair and makeup. She looked flawless! Emma decided to have her wedding hair and makeup trial coincide with her engagement session. A great way to not only look amazing for your session but also get in a trial run for the wedding day!

The two images we snuck in before the security guards kicked us out :-P

Before we headed into the Fairmont the skies cleared for a glorious five minutes before suddenly opening up again.

Right as I was taking a close up of Emma's amazing JCrew pumps, the skies opened and we ran for cover!

Emma has a GORGEOUS yellow diamond engagement ring that I was coveting;)!

Many thanks to The Music Bed for providing the music for Jon and Emma’s slideshow “Pink Champagne” performed by Lovedrug.

Jon & Emma Engaged

A Copley Square Engagement Session

But as the weekend neared the weather took a turn for the worst. Because Emma and Jon were visiting for just a few short days there was no time to reschedule. We would have to make due. Suddenly my grand ideas and secret spots flew out the window. It would turn out to be an afternoon of extremes and nothing that I expected!

To view more of Jon and Emma's images, click here.

I've got some stylish grooms who love Bonobos! Jon is the second groom of the month to sport these fun shorts!Wedding Tresses did an amazing job with Emma's hair and makeup. She looked flawless! Emma decided to have her wedding hair and makeup trial coincide with her engagement session. A great way to not only look amazing for your session but also get in a trial run for the wedding day!Definitely my favorite of the day!The two images we snuck in before the security guards kicked us out :-PRight as I was taking a close up of Emma's amazing JCrew pumps, the skies opened and we ran for cover!Right as I was taking a close up of Emma's amazing JCrew pumps, the skies opened and we ran for cover!Emma has a GORGEOUS yellow diamond engagement ring that I was coveting;)!

Many thanks to The Music Bed for providing the music for Jon and Emma's slideshow "Pink Champagne" performed by Lovedrug.

Embracing Who I Am Not

Recently I was chatting with a friend. Talking about our dreams for the future and where we'd like to see our businesses in the coming years. I have a clear direction of how I want to grow and where I want to push myself. But as I spoke to her my dreams I had to be careful to make the distinction between who I am and who I am NOT.

The reality is that sometimes I see myself not as who I am but as who I think I should be. As if I'm not content with who I was created me to be and rather desiring to be someone I am not. I see what other people are doing, I see what other people are achieving and I see who other people think I should be. I listen to those voices and then align my dreams and hopes for the future based on untruths. I base my future on the things that I am not.

As I've grown in age, as most of us do, I've realized that I am who I am. And with each year older, I am steadily becoming ok with who I am not. I am slowly learning to let go of dreams and aspirations that just don't line up with who I am. That doesn't mean I've stopped dreaming or stopped trying to grow. I've got a long way to go. It just means that I'm learning to align those dreams and goals with the unique person that I was created to be.

Are you with me?

This might not make sense to anyone but me. But I hope that if you're out there and struggling to find balance between where you want to be and who you ARE, just let it go. Let go of your expectations, your this is what I must be thoughts. Let the character and person that you are dictate how you live your life, not some predestine thought of a stranger of who you have to be. Maybe I'm the only one who struggles. But I have found freedom and release in learning to embrace who I am not and running head first into the things that reflect who I truly am.

Who am I? A frizzy haired red head who loves her dog, a little to much ;)

Embracing Who I Am Not

But as I spoke to her my dreams I had to be careful to make the distinction between who I am and who I am NOT.

Are you with me?

Who am I? A frizzy haired red head who loves her dog, a little to much ;)

Ask Anything : Mint.com

Things I Can't Live Without

Y'all know that I LOOOOOOVE organization. So anything that allows me to be even more organized than I already am, well of course it has me smitten! Let me introduce you to Mint.

Mint.com is a a free online budgeting application/tool that allows you to track all of your finances giving you a universal view of your budgets.

Budgets are nothing new to Dave and I. We have budgeted since the beginning of our marriage. But up until now it's been on a confusing excel spreadsheet that only my husband and a NASA rocket scientist could understand. Working out our monthly budget could be a stressful and confusing process and would often leave me feeling discouraged. And while I was happy that at least one of us understood what was happening with our finances, I desperately wanted something I could understand too!

So when friend after friend told me that I HAD to check out Mint.com it was a no brain-er. Finally a tool that allowed us to track our finances creating monthly budgets and yearly goals all within a platform that made sense to BOTH of us!

Now we easily track all of our finances online and on our phones (ahem, my phone;)). We can quickly see if we are underspending or overspending in any of our budgets as well as keep track of our savings and financial goals! Talk about one application that I can't live without!

And don't just think that this is only for your personal finances! I use this for my business finances as well! This was the catalyst for me to actually build a real financial budget for my business. Because I can easily SEE and UNDERSTAND where finances are being spread, I can easily understand how to budget for the future. And if there is one thing we should be doing as business owners it is budgeting for the future.

So, like my friends before me, I encourage you to check out Mint. Nothing feels better than having a REAL handle on your finances and financial goals. And nothing is better than using an application that makes that process easy and accessible. Happy Monday, now get out there and budget!!

What are some of your favorite tools to help you keep track of your finances?

Ask Anything : Things I Can't Live Without (Mint.com)

Y'all know that I LOOOOOOVE organization. So anything that allows me to be even more organized than I already am, well of course it has me smitten! Let me introduce you to Mint. Mint.com is a a free online budgeting application/tool that allows you to track all of your finances giving you a universal view of your budgets.

What are some of your favorite tools to help you keep track of your finances?

Jason & Amanda's Downtown Newburyport Engagement

Amanda and Jason's engagement session was hot. I mean we're talking sweating bullets kind of hot. How we managed to make it through, well that just goes to show you how amazing my couples are. And the fact that they didn't run screaming from my frizzed-out-drenched-in sweat-appearance is beyond me. People, it got to the point that I was SO hot I couldn't even form coherent sentences. Thank goodness for amazing people like Amanda and Jason! I knew from the minute we first Skyped that we could get along famously. Amanda with her big smile and warm personality and Jason with his awesome sense of humor were a match made in heaven. And our time together only confirmed to me just how great these two are. Like the time Jason joked that in fact he was going to open his OWN coffee shop and name it Circlebucks and make millions. And with that I just about died. I love people who live life with a sense of whimsy and humor. And Amanda and Jason do just that.

Thank you guys for keeping me on my toes, for your playful spirit and of course your amazing attitudes despite what the weather dealt us. August can't get here soon enough! Enjoy your images!

If you would like to see more of Jason and Amanda's images, please click here.

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0001

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0002

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0003

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0004

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0005

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0006

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0007

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0008

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0009

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0010

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0011

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0012

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0013

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0014

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0015

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0016

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0017

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0018

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0019

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0020

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0021

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0022

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0023

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0024

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0025

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0026

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0027

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0028

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0029

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0030

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0031

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0032

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0033

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0034

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0035

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0036

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0037

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0038

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0039

Many thanks to The Music Bed for providing the music for Jason and Amanda’s slideshow “Running Back To You” performed by Matt Wertz.

Jason & Amanda Engaged

A Newburyport Engagement Session

I knew from the minute we first Skyped that we could get along famously. Amanda with her big smile and warm personality and Jason with his awesome sense of humor were a match made in heaven. And our time together only confirmed to me just how great these two are. Like the time Jason joked that in fact he was going to open his OWN coffee shop and name it Circlebucks and make millions. And with that I just about died. I love people who live life with a sense of whimsy and humor. And Amanda and Jason do just that.

Thank you guys for keeping me on my toes, for your playful spirit and of course your amazing attitudes despite what the weather dealt us. August can't get here soon enough! Enjoy your images!

deborah zoe photography newburyport wedding downtown newburyport boston wedding photographer0039.JPG

If you would like to see more of Jason and Amanda's images, please click here.

Many thanks to The Music Bed for providing the music for Jason and Amanda's slideshow "Running Back To You" performed by Matt Wertz.

Happy Anniversary House!

Three years ago yesterday we moved in to our quaint little home. I can hardly wrap my head around the fact that it's been three years since we closed. So much has happened, so much has changed. These past three years have gone by so quickly it's left me wondering if they even really happened. Life moves by quickly, so quickly. It's only deepened my resolve to stop and live in the moment every chance I get. The past two years I've celebrated our house's anniversary here on the blog. You can read them here and here. So I only thought it fitting to continue the tradition into year three. But this time around I thought we'd take a trip back in time to see what our house looked like BEFORE we moved in and ya know, adopted a dog. So get ready for some before and afters and glimpse inside our little world.

This was the first time I stepped into what would become our home. We had the opportunity to walk the property with our realtor and having just come for work I only had my point and shoot to take pictures with. This is the BEFORE of the entryway to our home.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0044

And this is the AFTER. Not much has changed, except for a few details here and there.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0045

This is the living room's BEFORE, right off the entryway. The paint color was awful but we LOVED the hardwood floors!

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0046

Here is the AFTER with the beginnings of our gallery wall.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0047

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0048

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0049

On the day we closed and moved in Dave surprised me with flowers and champagne to celebrate in our new kitchen! Here is the kitchen's BEFORE.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0050

And here is the AFTER. Finally my red kitchen accessories looked normal!

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0051

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0052

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0053

My friend Tricia says every kitchen needs a rooster. Mine has two:)

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0054

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0055

Our bedroom is probably my favorite place in the house. We've worked hard to make it a sanctuary. Here is the boring BEFORE.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0056

And here is the AFTER three years later.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0057

Just recently we finished the downstairs bathroom. Here is the BEFORE.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0058

And here is the AFTER.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0059

We have a bathroom upstairs as well that is adjacent to my client meeting space. Here is the BEFORE.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0060

And the AFTER.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0061

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0062

Here's the guest bedroom. To be perfectly honest we don't spend much time in here AND this is pretty much where all the junk in the house goes if people are coming over;). But nevertheless here is the BEFORE.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0063

And here is the AFTER.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0064

One of the biggest transformations is my home office and client meeting space. Check out the BEFORE.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0065

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0066

And the MUCH better AFTER.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0067

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0068

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer house tour0069

I didn't share with you the dining room or our backyard or our creepy basement. Our house, even three years later, is still a work in progress but I'm proud of what we've accomplished so far. Mostly I'm excited to see what life we'll live in this house in the coming years. Thank you house for becoming our home, for providing us with shelter and giving us a place to escape. Three years later you're still one of the best decisions we've ever made:)

What do you love about YOUR home?!

Happy Anniversary House

Three Years Later

The past two years I've celebrated our house's anniversary here on the blog. You can read them here and here. So I only thought it fitting to continue the tradition into year three. But this time around I thought we'd take a trip back in time to see what our house looked like BEFORE we moved in and ya know, adopted a dog. So get ready for some before and afters and glimpse inside our little world.

And this is the AFTER. Not much has changed, except for a few details here and there.

This is the living room's BEFORE, right off the entryway. The paint color was awful but we LOVED the hardwood floors!

Here is the AFTER with the beginnings of our gallery wall.

On the day we closed and moved in Dave surprised me with flowers and champagne to celebrate in our new kitchen! Here is the kitchen's BEFORE.

And here is the AFTER. Finally my red kitchen accessories looked normal!

My friend Tricia says every kitchen needs a rooster. Mine has two:)

Our bedroom is probably my favorite place in the house. We've worked hard to make it a sanctuary. Here is the boring BEFORE.

And here is the AFTER three years later.

Just recently we finished the downstairs bathroom. Here is the BEFORE.

And here is the AFTER.

We have a bathroom upstairs as well that is adjacent to my client meeting space. Here is the BEFORE.

And the AFTER.

And here is the AFTER.

One of the biggest transformations is my home office and client meeting space. Check out the BEFORE.

And the MUCH better AFTER.

What do you love about YOUR home?!

Ocean House Rhode Island Engagement Photos

Have you ever met people that just immediately put you at ease? People who exude warmth and charm? That's Fred and Ashley. The first time we met was at their engagement session at the Ocean House where they will be married next year. Honestly, whenever I meet people for the first time I'm always a bit nervous. But with a hug and kiss on the cheek Ashley and Fred welcomed me with open arms and put my nervousness to rest. That's just Fred and Ash, sharing their warmth and kindness with those around them. They are a wonderful couple, people who compliment one another perfectly. Fred, who makes Ashley shyly giggle under breath and Ashley who makes Fred's heart melt. It was a joy to watch these two just love each other.

We spent a fun afternoon walking the property at Ocean House taking in the sweeping ocean views and the classic New England charm. Fred and Ashley, thank you for being the perfect pair and for sharing your warmth and love with those around you!

Fred was a constant surprise, like the time he suggested to climb up on the life guard tower. Turned out pretty awesome!

I was diggin' Fred's blue Bonobos pants and their B logo!

deborah zoe photography ocean house wedding rhode island engagement session boston wedding photographer new england wedding photography 0031

Gosh Ash, could you be any more beautiful?!

Wedding Love : Being YOU In Front Of The Camera

Welcome Monday, you sure are dramatic! Nothing like a crazy lightening storm to kick off the work week! Today I'm sharing my thoughts on posing in front of the camera. Over the weekend I had two amazing engagement sessions with two amazing couples. For both couples, it was more or less the first time they had ever been professionally photographed. They needed direction and guidance and most of all REASSURANCE that they were fabulous in front of the camera. Because guess what, "being yourself" while being photographed is HARD. There is an art of being in front of the camera and it's definitely not something that comes naturally, to me at least. I feel for my clients and work hard to make them feel as comfortable as possible and reassure them that they are fabulous!

Because I'm a visual learner I thought that today along with some tips and tricks about posing, I'd show you some images that have been taken of ME over the past few years. Like my clients, I had rarely ever been in front of the camera before my first real photo shoot. I didn't have ANY idea on how to pose or ACT while being photographed. The first time I had professional portraits taken I was a mess. I was so nervous and I had NO idea what I was doing. Luckily, I worked with an amazing photographer and friend, Shyla, who put me right at ease. That leads me to tip number 1:

1. TRUST. You MUST trust the person who is photographing you. You must trust that they are going to take good care of you and that they will make you look your best! I went into my portrait session with Shyla trusting in her completely. I knew that she was a talented photographer who knew what she was doing. But I also knew she was charismatic, friendly and could care less if I looked like a total idiot. I knew that working with Shyla would be a great experience, and it was. I was more confident to try different things and be myself in front of her camera because of the trust I had placed in her as my photographer.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer justin and mary katelyn james shyla new england wedding photographer0001

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer justin and mary katelyn james shyla new england wedding photographer0002

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer justin and mary katelyn james shyla new england wedding photographer0003

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer justin and mary katelyn james shyla new england wedding photographer0004

I definitely learned from that first portrait experience. After seeing those images I began figuring out HOW I worked best in front of the camera and practiced in front of the mirror at home. Yep, I worked my model eyes for myself. And while I felt like a complete fool at the time, I slowly began to understand how to move my face and my body to positions that were flattering. Which leads me to point number 2:

2. PRACTICE. I know it probably sounds CRAZY, but practicing in front of a mirror or a friend's camera is actually a great way to learn how to pose. Practicing allows you to see how you move, how you smile, how you laugh. For example, what I thought was my "Model" face was not in fact model-esque at all. I just looked mad. Like run away for me right now kind of mad. I've learned that I look best smiling. That I look best moving and that I really enjoy a LOT of direction from my photographer. I also learned that I can't just stare at the camera and smile. There HAS to be LIFE behind my eyes. If there is one thing that makes or breaks an image, it is within the person's eyes. Bring life to the eyes and the entire image will come alive. Practice in front of a mirror you'll see exactly what I mean. Watch as your eyes move, change, react. I know, I know, it really sounds crazy, but believe me it will pay off! Practice, practice, practice.

By the time Dave and I had our portrait session with our friend Katelyn, I had been in front of the camera numerous times. I had begun to learn how to move and pose my body. And most importantly I had gained confidence in myself and how I looked. I found out that indeed I could take some risks and "work it" for the camera. With each person that I worked with I gained more and more confidence to just have FUN and enjoy myself. Which leads to point number 3:

3. HAVE FUN. The best images come when people let down their guard. When they let out a giggle or a sigh, when they spontaneously embrace or kiss. You're allowed to have fun and to enjoy your time in front of the camera! A great photographer will make that easy for you, especially if you trust them to capture you in those fleeting but wonderful moments! Some of my favorite images from our time with Katelyn was when Dave unexpectedly pulled me close and whispered in my ear. Love that guy!

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer justin and mary katelyn james shyla new england wedding photographer0005

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer justin and mary katelyn james shyla new england wedding photographer0006

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer justin and mary katelyn james shyla new england wedding photographer0007

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer justin and mary katelyn james shyla new england wedding photographer0008

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer justin and mary katelyn james shyla new england wedding photographer0009

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer justin and mary katelyn james shyla new england wedding photographer0010

As you can see in the above images, sometimes things can go wrong. My veil started doing it's own thing. My hair was blown all about. My lipstick wore off about halfway through the shoot and I ripped holes in my dress. And I could have let all of that ruin what ended up being an AMAZING portrait session. Of course this leads me to point number 4:

4. LET GO. At some point you just have to say, I'm letting it go. Because nothing is ever going to go exactly to plan. Your hair may blow in the wind, your dress my get a rip (mine sure did!), you might get makeup on your husband's suit, I could go on and on. If you let those things get in the way, you could miss the chance to make some amazing images! Of course you want to look your best during your shoot. But how could you NOT look your best wrapped in your fiances arms? How could you not look your best laughing at your run away veil? Learn to let the little things go and you might just end up with some of your favorite images ever.

My final set of images to show you are from my portrait session with Justin and Mary, images taken for my new branding. Having now spent a LOT of time in front of the camera, I felt that I had a good sense on what to expect. I knew how to move my body and position myself. But I was also keenly aware of those little imperfections that drive me crazy. But despite my own insecurities, I knew that in order to get the best images possible, I had to ignore my own self doubt and just go for it. My final tip for LOVING your time in front of the camera is to embrace your imperfections.

5. EMBRACE YOUR IMPERFECTIONS. Too often we let our self doubts get in our own way. For example, I have bright red FRIZZY hair. I have man-ish hands, I'm not super skinny and I have large arms. Oh and I have size HUMONGOUS feet, plus I'm pale, have acne and some of my eyelashes are shorter than the others...I could go on and on. These things used to PLAGUE me and I was terrified to be in front of the camera. Because (especially to girls), your worst features are what seem to be highlighted in every image taken of you. But guess what, you are the ONLY person that sees that. Everyone else only views you as beautiful. So know your strengths and your weaknesses of course. But don't let that ever stop you from just being YOU in front of the camera. If I had done that I would have never these images below with my husband. These are images that I cherish. Are they perfect, absolutely not. My stomach is sticking out, my skin is SUPER pale, my hair is blow all about. But that is NOT what matters in these images. What matters is the love we share for each other. What matters is that our true selves were captured, preserved for years to come. And while I may not be perfect, to me, these images are.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer justin and mary katelyn james shyla new england wedding photographer0011

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer justin and mary katelyn james shyla new england wedding photographer0012

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer justin and mary katelyn james shyla new england wedding photographer0013

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer justin and mary katelyn james shyla new england wedding photographer0014

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer justin and mary katelyn james shyla new england wedding photographer0015

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer justin and mary katelyn james shyla new england wedding photographer0016

Having your picture taken is challenging. But the more time you spend in front of the camera, the more comfortable you will be and the more confidence you will gain. Remember to trust your photographer, practice your posing, have fun and let go and embrace your imperfections! If you can do those things, I promise you'll end up with images you'll cherish for years to come!

Did you find this helpful? For those of you who have been in front of the camera before, what was the one piece advice you found most helpful? What would you say to someone getting their pictures taken? I'd love to hear!

Wedding Love

deborah-zoe-photography-boston-wedding-photographer-justin-and-mary-katelyn-james-shyla-new-england-wedding-photographer00041.jpg

Being YOU In Front of the Camera

Welcome Monday, you sure are dramatic! Nothing like a crazy lightening storm to kick off the work week!

Today I'm sharing my thoughts on posing in front of the camera. Over the weekend I had two amazing engagement sessions with two amazing couples. For both couples, it was more or less the first time they had ever been professionally photographed. They needed direction and guidance and most of all REASSURANCE that they were fabulous in front of the camera. Because guess what, "being yourself" while being photographed is HARD. There is an art of being in front of the camera and it's definitely not something that comes naturally, to me at least. I feel for my clients and work hard to make them feel as comfortable as possible and reassure them that they are fabulous!

Mike & Monica's Wedding at Seven Mile Road Church and Boston Marriot Peabody

Over the weekend long time friends of ours, Mike and Monica tied the knot. I remember when I first met Mike, long before he ever met Monica. I remember talking about girls, past relationships and his hope for "finding the one." Several months later a fiesty Colombian entered his life and he would never be the same. Mike and Monica are the ying to each other's yang. They compliment one another perfectly. Monica brings the zest for life while Mike balances out her energy. Surrounded by their close friends and family Mike and Monica promised to love, honor and cherish one another come what may. And while I was shooting the wedding, I couldn't help buy cry happy tears for our two friends. Mike and Monica, welcome to the club;)! Marriage is an adventure, hold on tight and enjoy every minute! We're so excited for you guys and what the future holds! Felicidades!

If you would like to see more of Mike and Monica’s images, please click here.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0001

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0002

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0003

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0004

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0005

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0006

Monica's parents blessed their daughter before she left for the ceremony.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0007

My good friend Erin joined me for the day and started with the guys as they got ready.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0008

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0009

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0010

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0011

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0012

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0013

Mike and Monica wrote their own vows. They were filled with tears...

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0014

And laughter!

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0015

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0016

Married! My view of the first kiss and Erin's.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0017

A bubble exit!

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0018

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0019

Off to the reception!

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0020

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0021

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0022

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0023

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0024

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0025

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0026

Monica is simply stunning.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0027

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0028

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0029

They sure did have a fun bridal party!

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0030

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0031

A few more intimate portraits.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0032

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0033

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0034

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0035

Time to party!

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0036

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0037

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0038

The father daughter dance was so special!

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0039

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0040

The dance floor opened and the tables cleared!

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0041

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0042

Oh gosh internet, that is my HUSBAND.

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0043

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0044

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0045

Don't hate, he's got moves;)!

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0046

Sorry guys, I had to post, this was to awesome!

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0047

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0048

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0049

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0050

Monica's nephew Christopher danced a solo to Smooth Criminal... oh hey MINI MICHAEL!

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0051

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0052

I'll end with their beautiful rings!

deborah zoe photography boston wedding photographer boston wedding new england wedding photographer 0053

Mike & Monica Married

deborah-zoe-photography-boston-wedding-photographer-boston-wedding-new-england-wedding-photographer-00181.jpg

A North Shore Wedding

Mike and Monica, welcome to the club;)! Marriage is an adventure, hold on tight and enjoy every minute! We're so excited for you guys and what the future holds! Felicidades!

If you would like to see more of Mike and Monica's images, please click here.

Monica's parents blessed their daughter before she left for the ceremony.

My good friend Erin joined me for the day and started with the guys as they got ready.

Mike and Monica wrote their own vows. They were filled with tears...

And laughter!

Married! My view of the first kiss and Erin's.

A bubble exit!

Off to the reception!

Monica is simply stunning.

They sure did have a fun bridal party!

A few more intimate portraits.

Time to party!

The father daughter dance was so special!

The dance floor opened and the tables cleared!

Oh gosh internet, that is my HUSBAND.

Don't hate, he's got moves;)!

Sorry guys, I had to post, this was to awesome!

Monica's nephew Christopher danced a solo to Smooth Criminal... oh hey MINI MICHAEL!

I'll end with their beautiful rings!

Sam & Diana Married

deborah-zoe-photography-codman-estate-wedding-boston-wedding-photographer-new-england-wedding-photographer0003.jpg

A Codman Estate Wedding

Diana could light up a room. Just look at that smile, she just beams. And her smile could not have been any bigger than on Friday when she married her best friend, Sam at the Codman Estate. Childhood sweethearts, Diana and Sam have known each other for 12 years and have been together for nine. Their coral inspired wedding was culmination of their past and the beginning of their future. It was a day filled with family and friends who celebrated with the couple, roasts and all. Memories were made, laughter was shared and of course there was dancing. Oh the dancing! Diana and Sam could not have been more happy than on their wedding day and I am honored to have been there to capture it all. Congratulations Diana and Sam! I hope you're enjoying your honeymoon in Puerto Rico!

If you would like to see more of Sam and Diana's images, please click here.