Leah Mae Photos

The Largent Family

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Sun, 10 Nov 2013 03:06:00 +0000

Cassie & Tim's Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Tue, 01 Oct 2013 03:14:00 +0000

Cassie and Tim's Wedding was gorgeous. Every detail so elegant and classy. This couple has amazing taste! We started out at Our Lady of Grace Church. What a breath-taking place to have a ceremony, the pictures speak for themselves. The reception was held at Revolution Mill Studios, which also happens to be where I used to work. I LOVE this venue. Especially the exposed brick and pipes and the beautiful wooden floors. I have to say, this reception was amazing. It was one of, if not THE, most easily flowing parties I've ever been had the pleasure of photographing. This is I'm sure thanks in huge part to the awesome DJ they hired! Anyway, enough talk and onto the beautiful photos!!!

Awesome toast by her sister, great advice! :

Her dad's toast and his super sweet words about Cassie's mom had everyone in tears:

Ashley's amazing capture. Love it. :

Special Mother, daughter, daughter dance! :)

Another shot by Ashley. :

Also Ashley's beautiful shot:

Beautiful beautiful night. Thanks for having us, Cassie and Tim!

Dad's First Look at Cassie!

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Sat, 28 Sep 2013 19:10:00 +0000

Full blog post coming very very soon! While you wait though, I had to post this sweet sweet series that touched my heart so much. I had a little trouble seeing this through my viewfinder with the tears blurring my vision!! But I'm so glad I caught this beautiful, priceless moment. Enjoy!

Jillian & Jimmy's Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Sat, 29 Jun 2013 03:38:00 +0000

This will be my longest blogpost to date!! I just had so many favorites I couldn't choose!! So many sweet emotional moments. What a precious couple, fun party, and beautiful beautiful day!! You'll see what I mean. Check it out:

The bridesmaids first peek at Jillian all ready to go. So sweet!!

There were quite a few photographers at this wedding!! I love this paparazzi moment. ;)

Loved their super peaceful first dance. It was lovely.

Jill's sister Zoe getting emotional at her Dad's toast.

Jimmy's Brother Steven brought down the house with his toast. He made everyone crack up laughing and cry as well. It was beautiful.

Poor guy (who caught the garter) was tricked into thinking he was putting this on bridesmaid Zoe (who caught the bouquet)'s leg.

He was a great sport about it. :)

Thanks for letting us be a part of all the fun!! :)

Kerri & Ryan Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 03:30:00 +0000

Kerri and Ryan's Wedding was a blast. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves, but don't miss their super beautiful first look and amazingly fun reception. Also, the coolest cufflinks I've ever had the pleasure of photographing (a piece of text from Harry Potter). Kerri and Ryan, thanks for being one of the sweetest couples we've ever had!!

Emily & Brett's Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Sun, 05 May 2013 00:48:00 +0000

Enjoy the photos from this beautiful day!!

Ashley's gorgeous detail shots:

Cute candid shot of the bridal party by Ash :) :

More details by Ashley, she's the best! :

Sweet moment Ashley captured of the last dance. Loved this moment:

Thanks for letting us be a part guys! Ashley and I had a blast! :)

Sweet Caitlin plus Sister Love

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:45:00 +0000

This post needs no introduction. It was just a beautiful day for a fun shoot. Enjoy.

Adam's Proposal to Maggie

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Sat, 12 Jan 2013 16:34:00 +0000

This was my very first proposal shoot, and I couldn't have chosen a sweeter couple! When Adam called and asked me to photograph one of the most important moments of his and Maggie's relationship, I was absolutely flattered. The proposal took place at the Graylyn House in Winston-Salem. Such a beautiful location and an absolutely gorgeous day. Both Adam and Maggie's families were watching from inside of the house as Adam popped the question. Please enjoy these images from this sweet sweet moment on Sunday.

The Boys

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Thu, 27 Dec 2012 10:27:00 +0000

When I told people I was moving to Nicaragua for a month many of them asked me "Why?". Well I addressed the "Why?" in the post before I came here. The next question I got the most was, "What will you be doing there?" This was always something I just had a vague answer to. "Teaching english, taking pictures, mentoring, helping the ministry in any way I can." The truth was, I didn't know what I would be doing here. The only thing I knew was that I needed to be here. That Jesus wanted me here. This was scary, with this question being asked so often. In my mind it morphed from, "What will you be doing there?" into "What can YOU do there?" This has been one of Satan's main tools of discouragement as I've been here. I have done all of the things I mentioned above. But sometime last week it finally dawned on me. I'm here to love them. That's why I came. If I make no more impact other than to show these 5 boys how much they've touched my heart and how much I loved and needed them in my life, then I've done what Jesus sent me to do. He promised me many brothers after Noah died. And I've just gained five. Five brothers who have laughed with me, pulled my shoulder back as I was about to walk into oncoming traffic, Picked and opened fresh coconuts for me to eat, swam in the pool with me, just plain sat with me, walked with me, gotten me candy, prayed over me, but most of all, loved me.

This past week was the first week that all five of the boys were out for their "School Break". It's in the winter time down here. I've started to do devotions with them every afternoon. I wasn't sure how much of what I was saying was being absorbed. They are teenage boys after all with a short attention span. Especially if the subject doesn't cover music, soccer, or girls. I've taught them everything from, declaring good things over their lives, to prophesying over one another, to laying hands on people when they pray. And I have to say, they have absolutely floored me in learning these things. I told them to declare things as simple as: "I'm going to have a good day today." Noel's declaration was: "I will have correct thinking in my life." Now if that isn't maturity, I don't know what is. They absolutely have an understanding of what I taught them and I hope they are able to use these tools in their lives.

So I'm leaving here with much more than just an understanding of what it's like to live in a third world country for a month. I'm leaving here having formed 5 new relationships. With boys that I truly love like they are my brothers.

Life in Nica

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Sat, 22 Dec 2012 21:06:00 +0000

Life in Nica has been mostly good. The only not good part has been that I've been a little under the weather since Sandra and I got back from Costa Rica last week. But I'm taking some antibiotics so I'm on the mend and looking forward to spending Christmas in another country. Following their traditions and just experiencing something different. The Lord has shown me so much while I've been here. It's been a very different experience than living in America. Not everything is at your fingertips and some things you just have to do without. Period.

I was feeling a bit discouraged the other day. Believing the things that Satan was whispering in my ear. Like my trip here has been pointless, I've made no difference at all, etc. So we took a walk to a local park. They had a small "zoo" there, complete with raccoons, deer, a warthog, sheep, something that looked like a giant hamster, and monkeys! The animals were so docile, you could hold their hands/paws and pet them. I gave one monkey a good rub down on his neck and back. He was loving it. Anyway, it may sound weird, but this totally lifted my spirits. The Lord knows how much I love animals. It touched my heart to get to see them so up close and personal and even pet and hold them. "I could never do this in the US." Is what I kept thinking.

So even though I'm a bit homesick and missing the people I love, and the cooler weather, I'm excited for Christmas Eve here. We have a plan, another family is coming to spend the day with us. We're going to swim, barbecue, sing Christmas Carols to an acoustic guitar, and set off fireworks. Then on Thursday I'm headed home. Not sure what to expect with the "culture shock" of coming back into the US. I've heard it can be jarring.

I already know it's going to break my heart to leave the boys. I love them all so much. They are each different, but all so sweet, loving, and accepting. It just shows what an impact Sandra and Preston and The Lord have already made, because before them these boys were never loved, accepted, or treated with kindness. What I'll miss the most about them is the solidarity I feel towards them. Most people in the US have not experienced the loss of a young immediate family member (like myself). These boys have lost family members young and old. Their family was never truly put together. It makes me so thankful for what I do have. So it will be hard to leave, but I know I'll be back. I know I'll see them again.

A Short Walk in my Nicaraguan Neighborhood

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 16:30:00 +0000

Just some more images I wanted to share. They were all taken on a walk a couple weeks ago in my neighborhood here. Except the first one of Noel just lounging a bit in the morning. :)

La Purisima

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 02:25:00 +0000

So, a couple of nights ago was La Purisima. A catholic holiday celebrated here in Leon, and all throughout Nicaragua. The people of Nicaragua pretty much celebrate the entire month of December. Now, I think the United States should take this idea into consideration. They set off fireworks every night here this time of year. Anyways, back to La Purisima. What an experience, let me tell you! It was crazy and I was not prepared for all the excitement. We had a blast. The people decorated altars to honor Mary. They were beautiful. Sandra explained to me that people also make dummies to fill with all the sins of their past. Then at midnight they set them on fire. Of course, I believe that Mary was a great woman of God, and nothing more. Jesus is the reason we should be celebrating this time of year, or everyday for that matter. We decided to go and enjoy the festivities anyway. The whole night reminded me a bit of the version of Romeo and Juliet with Leonardo Dicaprio and Claire Danes. Probably because of the fireworks and the fact that it's set in Brazil. There is also a very Catholic theme to that movie. Anyway, It was a fun night that I will never forget.

The boys trying to capture the fireworks on their cellphones.

I think the pictures above and below need a little bit of explanation. This display of dangerousness was called: "The Bull". Two men paraded around pretending to be bulls while fireworks shot off of the boxes they had on their heads and bottle rockets went flying into the crowd. I'll say one thing about Nicaraguans, they aren't worried about lawsuits. It was shocking and one of the coolest ways to shoot fireworks off that I've ever seen.

I had to hand it to this photographer, he wasn't worried about getting hit. He was gonna 'Get that shot!' Anyway, another fun night in Nicaragua. :)

Pieces of Nicaragua

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 18:07:00 +0000

Yesterday was an awesome day. Preston allowed me to tag along with him, Noel, and Israel to go check out a friend's house building project, and possibly offer a hand. We had to take the bus into town to get to his neighborhood. I really enjoy it when we get to go into the city of Leon.

I wasn't going to include this picture, but after seeing the lady in the back I totally had to. I think she likes me.

Once you leave the main streets of the city we had to walk a bit to get to where he was building.

The neighborhood they are building in.

Peeped in on their neighbors yard and found a little friend. :)

Noel standing in what will be their house.

Israel picking a flower. He's so so sweet.

Beautiful little girls that live in their neighborhood.

This house is in our neighborhood. Coolest fence and tree ever!!

This horse also lives in our neighborhood. No fence. He just hang outs.

Okay well just wanted to share some of the shots I took yesterday. Hope you enjoy these little pieces of my trip here in Nicaragua.

Nicaragua Week One

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 19:22:00 +0000

My first week in Nicaragua has been wonderful. I thought the adjustment would be difficult. But it's been like a beautiful vacation where I get to hang out with people I love and talk about God with them. I cannot complain at all. Sandra and Preston have taken such wonderful care of me. Below is some of the fruit I've been talking about. Those are mangos.

This is Douglas. He hates having his picture taken, so I had to be sneaky to catch this shot of him!! Yesterday I sat with him on the bus coming home from church and he told me about how he hopes to go to college where his adopted mother lives in West Virginia in the United States.

Engel and Noel. Two of the original boys who stole my heart in March. :)

Freddy loves being in front of the camera, even though he would never admit that. He's always posing for me!

Noel and I comparing skin colors. The boys call me Chela. Apparently this is an affectionate way to say 'white girl'. Noel and I have gotten the closest of all the boys. We have a special connection. We just seem to understand each other. As I told a friend recently, he is the most precious thing that lives on this earth. He truly is my brother.

Sandra and Preston grabbed some shots of us before we headed to church yesterday morning. Church was wonderful and we got to walk through the market a bit afterwards and even though it was hot it was fun.

Nicaragua: I'm here.

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 15:59:00 +0000

So here I am in Leon, Nicaragua. It didn't seem like I would ever get here, but through your support, prayer and otherwise, I made it. Yesterday and today have been very laid back. Sandra and Preston have allowed me some time to settle in and relax which has been wonderful. One thing about Nicaragua is it's not nearly as fast paced as America. Everything is relaxing and it's almost as if you have permission to take things slow. At home I feel guilty for sitting down and watching a movie, or even laying down for a few minutes when there are other things to be done. So this has been a treat.

The pictures above are just a few shots I took around the home I'm staying in. The flowers are called birds of paradise and I'm jealous that we don't have them in the United States (Except maybe in Florida). When Preston found out I liked the flowers he brought them to me to put in my room. It's incredible, I have come to serve these people and they treat me as an honored guest. Jesus has truly given me a beautiful Nicaraguan family.

The boys have been keeping me on my toes already. Telling me I must say things in Spanish. I must repeat after them. Yesterday Noel came into my room and said: "Te gusta arana?" To which I replied: "Sure!!" Thinking he said: "Te gusta naranjas?" (Do you like oranges?) Which wouldn't make sense anyway because naranja is orange the color, the fruit is spelled (and said) differently. (Hey I never said I was good at Spanish). So I proceeded with him to the front porch where they showed me the most giant spider I have ever seen. A tarantula, I'm sure. After I flipped out, he stomped on it with his flip flop which scared me to death. Anyway, I think the boys are warming up to me. Freddie talked to me the whole car ride back to Leon, so we became instant buddies. Noel remembers me and keeps giving me hugs. Engel has been shy but is beginning to open up again. The other two have been tougher, but I'm working on it.

Israel is in the purple. Then there's Freddie being shy.

Freddie again. And lastly, caught a few pictures yesterday afternoon of Israel picking some mangos!

Absolutely loving the fresh fruit here straight from the back yard. Mangos, coconuts, bananas, grapefruits and more. So that's about it for now. This afternoon I'm headed into town with Sandra to get some things. I'm excited to see more and more of the way of life down here. Keep checking back here for updates!!

Erin & Josh's Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 16:55:00 +0000

The weather could not have been more perfect for Erin and Josh's big day. The whole day was gorgeous. I had trouble choosing my favorites from this sweet outdoor wedding. There were so many great shots. Beautiful moments from a beautiful day. Such a sweet family. Ashley and I were so honored to be a part of everything. Hope you all love them!!

The flowers were gorgeous!!

Has to be my favorite cake-cutting to date. Josh's face is absolutely priceless.

Such a sweet toast from the maid of honor!! It had everyone in tears.

Nicaragua

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 04:53:00 +0000

People keep asking me why I want to go live in Nicaragua for a month. I'm never quite sure what to tell them except for very simply put, "I have to." Going there in March was an extremely different experience from the other two times I was able to go. The Lord decided to break open my heart and rearrange the way I thought about people, life, and missions. I know!! I was incredibly emotional and couldn't stop sobbing for days. It was a first for me.

These three faces probably don't mean a thing to you. I only wish I could make you fully understand what they have meant to me.

I lost my brother in May of 2011 in a tragic and life-altering way. He was 32 years old. There are no answers for me, my family, and my brother's friends as to why this happened. But I remember someone talking about how the Bible tells us of God's promise to restore back to us what the enemy has stolen. I scoffed through tear-filled eyes, "How can He ever restore what's been stolen from me? You can't restore my brother." At the time it felt like a knife in the gut. Not only have I lost my brother and my friend, but now they were reminding me that nothing will ever replace him. Well, nothing will ever replace my brother.

However, this is where the three faces come in. These are three boys that lived with Sandra and Preston (The missionaries I will be staying with) on our last visit. I remember meeting them at the airport on our first night there. Sitting quietly in the back of the dark van as we made the trek back to Leon. I wasn't quite sure what to think of these boys they were ministering to, housing, teaching, and restoring. I never imagined the depth of the love I could feel for the three of them over the course of the next few days. It simply had to be God. My heart was bursting by the time we had to say goodbye. The only thing I could manage to say was: "Te amo...te amo.." (I love you). It wasn't until I was back in my home church on a Sunday Morning listening to the worship that I again broke down into tears. There was no question about it, He was confirming it in my heart. I heard Him whisper softly, gently, "You will have lots of brothers." I was overwhelmed with emotion at the realization that He was restoring my brother through the brothers I would gain in Nicaragua.

In that moment I knew I was supposed to go back. Long enough to make some sort of difference. Although if I'm really being honest, I know I'll be more impacted than they will be. I already have been.

So those three faces mean so much more than I could ever explain. They speak of the restoration God has brought to my heart and to my life.

I never thought I would be counting down the days until I saw this sweet land and people again. But He had something different planned. He wanted me back there by the end of this year, teaching english, taking photos, and helping Sandra and Preston with their powerful and life-changing ministry. The past few months have not been devoid of trials, distractions, and just plain hard and emotional moments. So here I am, a month out from leaving for the amazing experiences to come.

November 27th -December 27th is when I will be with them again. Trying my best to serve in any way I can to help these boys who have been given a second chance at life. The one thing I'm lacking is a portion of the funds I need to go. Asking for support is not my forte, but is an undeniable part of missions. A little bit of money goes a long way in Nicaragua. Everything is cheaper and I don't need much to live on at all. If you would like to be a part of what God is doing there through me and donate I would be beyond grateful. I appreciate any gift you are able to give and thank you so much for your generosity. You can give by sending your check to: The Father's Love Ministries, 3409 Briarbend Dr., Greensboro, NC 27410

The Father's Love Ministries is a 501 c3 organization. All Donations are fully tax deductible.

I will need support in prayer as well. So please keep me and my mission in Nicaragua in your prayers. Thank you for taking the time to read this to all who do.

Kerri & Ryan's Downtown Engagement

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 19:23:00 +0000

I had so much fun shooting Kerri and Ryan's engagement. These two were definitely made for each other. They just fit together. They were also a blast to hang out with. It felt more like hanging out with friends than work to me. And, oh my goodness what a beautiful couple! This is why I love my job!! Hope you love them as much as I do.

Megan & Keith's Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 17:30:00 +0000

Megan and Keith's Wedding day was absolutely beautiful!! After shooting Kevin and Caroline's beautiful day last year I knew Kevin's brother Keith's wedding would be just as wonderful. Ashley and I had such a blast shooting it. I've never met sweeter people in my life! We definitely felt like family at this wedding! Even though everyone is married now, I so hope to continue taking pictures of these families for years to come. Bring your babies to me!!!

Thanks to Ashley for these two beautiful exit shots!!

Ashley caught this beautiful moment of Megan's mom having an absolute blast. Love it.

Brittany & Bryan's Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 02:31:00 +0000

I felt so privileged to be a part of Brittany and Bryan's special day. Every inch of their wedding was gorgeous. The day started out at Meredith College's beautiful Chapel. I was overwhelmed by the beauty of the campus. It was a bit rainy but it didn't stop us from having a blast. The wedding was small but absolutely stunning. To top it all off Brittany and Bryan are so incredibly in love it made my job a piece of cake. So without further ado, here they are!!

Thanks again for letting me be a part. I enjoyed every moment!! Best wishes for a long and happy life.

Lissett & Dan's Sweet Ceremony

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Mon, 16 Jul 2012 21:05:00 +0000

Lissett and Dan's Ceremony was held at the incredibly beautiful Grandover in Greensboro. It was an absolutely gorgeous day. Their lovely little ceremony is smallest I've shot to date. The only people in attendance were their minister, their parents, and me. I felt extremely honored that they decided to include me in this intimate little ceremony. The afternoon was definitely filled with emotion. There was a lot of laughter and happy tears. We took the time afterwards to use the stunning grounds and took tons of beautiful portraits, some of which you will see below.

Loved this moment when Dan first saw Lissett coming down the aisle. So sweet!! :

Thanks again to Lissett and Dan for letting me witness your vows! Hope you are enjoying being newly-weds. :)

Merry Christmas Mackie!

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 21:21:00 +0000

So, I bet the title of this post is probably confusing you a little. Let me explain. Ryan emailed me last fall hoping to give his sweet wife, Mackie, portraits of the two of them for Christmas. Mackie loved it, but wanted to wait until it was warm outside to cash in their session. So in June they did!! I must say these are some of my favorite couple pictures to date. Who wouldn't enjoy photographing such a beautiful couple? Okay enough talking, I'll let the pictures speak for themselves.

Loved this because it was absolutely not staged. Ryan picked her some flowers and I just kept snapping this sweet sweet moment.

Thanks for a beautiful and fun session!!

Heather & Austin's Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 15:12:00 +0000

Heather and Austin got married on a beautiful June day this year. This wedding had so many gorgeous little details. The best part about it was that they were all very personal touches by the bride and groom themselves. Austin designed the programs/invites and a few more handmade items throughout the wedding. Heather spent so much time making sure everything flowed together beautifully. The day turned out to be a major success, not to mention a ton of fun. Hope you enjoy these images from their day as much as we did. This first two amazing shots are details captured by Ashley. This is why she is my "detail girl". :)

Heather and her dad sharing a sweet moment:

Loved the first look! It was perfect!:

I also loved the idea of having engagement photos lining the aisle instead of flowers. These two are so creative!:

The first dance was lovely:

Everyone was loving the fact that they had cornhole. Ashley's shot:

Thanks to Ashley for this shot of the entire reception area as well:

Congrats Heather & Austin!!

Whitney & Iain's Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Mon, 09 Jul 2012 17:47:00 +0000

Whitney is a very special client to me. We both weathered the biggest loss of our lives in 2011. I lost my brother and Whitney lost her sweet dad. We connected instantly. She has seemed much more like a close friend than a bride of mine. I was honored to capture her and Iain's gorgeous Wedding day this past May. Special thanks to my assistant/second shooter Ashley. Her beautiful handiwork is all up in this blogpost!! It was such a beautiful day and the images were so stunning, I had to include a bunch of her shots along with mine.

Wedding TOMS!! Love!:

Iain was teaching all the boys how to tie their ties. Such a sweet moment captured by Ashley:

Their beautiful first dance:

Loved Whitney's different idea of having "Yay" flags instead of the usual bubbles or sparklers:

Thanks so much to both families. Ashley and I had a blast!!

Caitlyn & Andy's Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (leah_mae) — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 22:19:00 +0000

So finally, as promised here come some major blog posts. Caitlyn and Andy's wedding took place at Castle McCulloch on May 4th of this year. It was a beautiful day and Ashley and I really enjoyed shooting it. I'm not a huge talker when I have pictures to share, so without further ado, here are the pictures.

Gorgeous shot of one of Caitlyn's girls by Ashley:

Ashley's shots of the beautiful venue:

Connor stealing a kiss from Mom at the reception. :)

Thanks to Ashley for the last shot. And a huge thank you to Caitlyn and Andy for letting us be a part of your day.