Behind the scenes @ MykalMPhoto

Tanner & Andrew tie the knot!

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 19:57:00 +0000

Had a great time photographing Tanner & Andrew's wedding day this past Saturday, April 14, 2012.

Here is their day... in photo form...

I truly wish these two and their families the best of luck in the future!

Oh, and before I forget.

First. I got winked at by Tanner's dog, and I want the world to see it.

Second. Andrew's dad, also a professional caterer and chef, came up with the idea to make cotton candy alcoholic. Don't ask me how, but it's pretty amazing.

Another great year

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 15:10:00 +0000

I just wanted to take a moment to thank all of my 2011 wedding clients. It was an absolutely amazing year! This year I was able to travel all over North and South Carolina working with some of the best clients a photographer could ask for. I wish you all a very happy holidays and may your best years be ahead of you.

Best of luck,
Mykal

Here are a few of my favorite images from the year:

Their story through engagement portraits

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Thu, 19 May 2011 20:18:00 +0000

I really enjoyed this shoot! Sally, the bride-to-be, had an idea to shoot inside the classroom her and Drew, her fiancé, had class in in college at Clemson University. The classroom is in one of the oldest buildings on campus which has kept its vintage look (<--I believe from the 1900's). They sat in the actual seats they sat in during that class and we went with it. I had the idea to shoot their engagements more like a story. FYI, Drew did not propose through a "circle yes or no" note, obviously... he text it... just kidding.

Amy & Ross

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Thu, 19 May 2011 20:17:00 +0000

It was such a pleasure working with Amy & Ross on their wedding day. From Amy and the girls getting hair done at Wilson's on Washington to Ross enjoying a beer with his buddies at the Carolina Ale House. You can usually sense a little bit of nervousness out the bride and groom, especially on the day of the wedding, but I didn't sense it with them -- they were ready as they could be!

I've Been Selected for the Bride's Choice Awards 2011

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 16:38:00 +0000

Mykal McEldowney Photography, LLC has been chosen to receive the Bride’s Choice Awards^™ 2011. This award recognizes the top 5 percent of local wedding professionals from the WeddingWire Network who demonstrate quality and service excellence in the wedding industry.

International Portrait Award

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:08:00 +0000

So excited to announce that my portrait of Katie Sholler-Dusel won 11th place in the WPJA (Wedding Photojournalism Association) International Q3 Contest for Lit Portraiture. Here is the image that won!

3 quick tips for great holiday photos

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 00:42:00 +0000

No matter what camera you are using, great photos are always just a shutter click away. Here are a few tips to make sure you capture your setting, family and friends at their best!

1) Everyone knows two things about kids - they move a lot and they're short. So, with kids I always suggest bending those knees and get down to their level. Instead of standing up and making them look up at you, try capturing them as they're opening a gift - not posing them yet getting a more candid photograph. A general rule of thumb is to make sure your camera is no higher than 5 inches above their eye level.

2) If the subject you are photographing doesn't move, use a tripod and not your flash (If you don't have a tripod, set your timer - frame your shot - prop your camera on a book and press the shutter button). Taking images of Christmas lights, trees and decorations will look MUCH better if you use your tripod. Make sure to set your camera to the "Landscape" setting - sometimes it looks like a mountain. In most to all other cases, use your flash.

3) Try not to pose every photo you are taking- step outside the box and try a different angle. Its the digital age people, its OK to make mistakes. Shoot shoot shoot!

If you're having trouble capturing that perfect photo at any of your gatherings, please feel free to shoot (no pun intended) me a quick email at mykal@mykalmphotography.com or text me at 864.293.4065 - I'll respond asap with some tips!

Happy shooting!! Post your favorite photos on my facebook wall, I'd love to see - just click HERE

A Photographers Holiday Wish List

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 16:26:00 +0000

Because the equipment a professional photographer uses is so expensive, I often get asked by friends or loved ones -- what gifts can you really get a professional photographer? I decided to help out all of the spouses, girlfriends, boyfriends, friends, parents of photographers with a quick list of cool, affordable gifts for photographers.

1) Cameras come with boring advertisement type shoulder straps so why not create a Custom Camera Strap - prices tag $25-35, head to www.phatstraps.com

2) Yes everything is digital now but most photographers still like to shoot film every once in a while. That is why I suggest a HOLGA - price tag of $50, head to www.holgacamera.org for more details.

3) Photographers need to sharp and on their toes constantly. A nice cup of coffee is a nice why to jump start the energy needed, hence this gift. The Canon Lens Mug - price tag $75-400, head to www.canonmugs.com

4) Life is full of shortcuts and we as photographers like them too. For art photographers, adding special effects to photos is a daily ritual. Well, the people over at Totally Rad Actions have created the shortcuts we all crave. Purchase Photoshop actions, price tag $150.00, head to www.gettotallyrad.com/

5) Wearing your camera daily sometimes rubs holes in your shirts, with this idea, you can still sort of wear your camera without the wear and tear. Check out thits Camera Strap T-Shirt - price tag $20, head to http://photojojo.com/store/awesomeness/photojojo-camera-strap-tee/

6) Passing along info from computer to computer has never looked so cool. Check our this 4gb Camera USB Drive - price tag $20, head to http://photojojo.com/store/awesomeness/camera-usb/

7) This is just fun right here and I bet your photographer doesn't have it. A 35mm camera that spins a complete 360 degrees for epic panoramas. The 360º Spinner Pano Camera - price tag $145, head to http://photojojo.com/store/awesomeness/spinner-360-pano-camera/

Isabel & Richard | Greenville, SC Wedding | October 18, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 23:38:00 +0000

Working with Isabel and Richard was awesome. SOO down to earth, easy going and kind. I arrived to Twigs Tempietto to find Isabel already getting her hair and makeup done by amazing local artist Katie Cotton. I have worked with Katie on a previous wedding and I'm amazed everything with her work, plus she is very friendly and quick.

Now, for brides and anyone who has every helped a bride get into a dress, you know how hard it is to latch those button things (and excuse my lack of dress terminology) on the back of the dress. Let me say this, you should hire Isabel's sister, she was amazing! I've seen people use those tools to help get the loop around the button but nope, she just used her fingers. I actually had to tell her to slow down so I could get some pics, ha!

Well, after the 8.9 seconds it took Isabels sister to button her up, the ceremony got started. The pastors, bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girl and finally the ring bearer passed down the aisle. I looked up at Richard to see his reaction and you could see a tear (of happiness of course) as Isabel walked down the aisle herself, with her dad in arm. The ceremony was beautiful.... I think.... The ceremony itself was all in Spanish and let me say my 1 year of high school Spanish did nothing but teach me how to say "hello", "goodbye" and "my name is Mykal." The whole time I had camera up, waiting for something to happen. Who knew when that kiss was coming.

One of my top 5 "Beautiful Moments at a Wedding EVER" came shortly after Richard walked his wife down the aisle. When Richard was young he and his family lost his mother. So, Isabel set up and hid a memorial for him that they walked to, alone, after the ceremony. I know I am supposed to be a fly on the wall, capturing moments but this was so sad and emotional. A beautiful moment and I praise Isabel for thinking of doing something so kind.

After making a few photos of this moment I stepped away so they could have a moment to themselves. After, we got all of the wedding party together to do some portraits. Richards brothers are characters - I'm just gonna throw that out there. Ha. A blast to work with these guys (and of course the bridesmaids too).

The night continued with heavy h'ordeuvres and when finished Richards oldest brother had a few words to say before the cake cutting. Both Richard and Isabel shared a tear during his emotional speech.

Before they knew it (as I reminded them earlier in the day) the day/night was coming to an end quickly. The people in attendance lined the hall and got ready to wish them well.... with bubbles. I will say that getting hit in the face with birdseed isn't near as pleasant as bubbles (much softer). I loved the fact that no one stopped blowing the bubbles after Richard and Isabel passed them as they headed to their car. EVERYONE chased them, blowing bubbles at Isabel even in the car. So much fun!

I truly enjoyed working with Richard and Isabel and both of their families. I wish them the best of luck in the future!

*To check out more of Isabel & Richard's Greenville, SC wedding photography, head to http://www.mykalmphotography.com or CLICK HERE.
**We also did a separate shoot with just them in their wedding attire, CLICK HERE to view the shoot.
***If you like what you see, please, become a fan on Facebook - CLICK HERE TO BECOME A FAN

Studio shoot with Paw Paws USA

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 22:28:00 +0000

Just wanted to share a quick pic. Anne Nutter, owner of Paw Paws USA and client of mine in Greenville, SC, asked to do an in-studio portrait session for her upcoming catalog. She rounded up a "puppy" which turned out to be more of an adolescent but still very cute. The pup did about as well as a pup can do, as far as holding its attention -- I think this shot turned out great!

To check out more of Anne's Greenville, SC studio photography, head to http://www.mykalmphotography.com

If you like what you see, please, become a fan on Facebook - CLICK HERE TO BECOME A FAN

The Cook's Station offers Gift Registry

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 20:27:00 +0000

During a photo shoot today at The Cook's Station in Greenville, SC I saw that they now offer Wedding and Gift Registry services. I wish they would have had this option when I got married, this store has everything you can think of for the kitchen - gadgets, pots, utensils, etc. Just thought I'd pass this info along to all of you brides and grooms - to - be.

Go check them out at www.thecooksstation.com/wedding_and_gift_registry.php
For more information on Mykal McEldowney Photography, CLICK HERE

Eric & Katie | Greenville, SC Wedding | August 28, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 18:06:00 +0000

Talk about a perfect day. The church, the trolley, the reception - all just simply amazing. The day started off as usual, everyone arrives and the portraits are started. If you've never been to Christ Church Episcopal it is a very beautiful church. High cathedral ceilings and tons of history. We started shooting Eric with his guys first then moved to the girls. Katie and Eric wanted to get their party portraits done before the wedding so after they could get to the reception fast (you'll see why later).

After the party portraits (which you can see more of here) everyone headed back into the church, the ceremony was getting close. I will say this. I work with lots and lots of brides and most to all of the time they are always nervous. Maybe Katie was but to me she seemed cool as a cucumber (did I really just type that?).

Christ Church is very strict, which I think is kind of a good thing, about their photography. There could only be photographs taken from the balcony and only during certain periods of the service. I have heard stories and have been to weddings where photographers are walking up behind the pastor, using flash, etc during the ceremony. To me, this is very distracting and it takes away from the couples moment. So, good for CC for keeping it about the couple.

After the ceremony it was time to head onto the trolley. They had the trolley stocked with champagne for all. Such a great idea to get people from one place to another - especially in a city with little public parking.

Once the trolley got us to our destination, we met up with Alexandra Barham, wedding planner/coordinator with Upstate I Do. She did such an amazing job decoration the Wyche Pavilion, the location of Katie and Eric's Greenville, SC wedding reception.

Once the happy couple made their entrance, cut the cake and had their first dance it was time to dance. There were definitely some dancers at this party, one specifically being Erics brother. Wow, what a dancer.

One of the coolest trends I've seen lately is having a photobooth with props at your wedding. Katie and Eric had just that and it was a hit. If you're interested in having that for your wedding CLICK HERE.

Before the night was over, Erics brother made a great speech before the couples last dance. It was such a great moment.

After the last dance, the couple made their way through a sparkler tunnel. These weren't your normal sparklers either, these things were HUGE.

Such a beautiful night in Greenville, SC. I loved every second of working with Katie and Eric, as well as both of their families. I wish them the BEST of luck in the future. To check out more of Katie and Eric's Greenville, SC wedding photography, head to http://www.mykalmphotography.com or CLICK HERE.
If you like what you see, please, become a fan on Facebook - CLICK HERE TO BECOME A FAN

Katie's Bridals | Greenville, SC Wedding | August 2010

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 15:33:00 +0000

Katie has a very distinct style that no one can pull off but her. She wanted to display that during her Greenville, SC bridals portraits and asked for a location that said "vintage." Just so happened that I worked in an art studio, White Whale Studios and Gallery in Greenville, SC a couple days prior to our shoot that was perfect and fit this need. We first started out at the Wyche Pavilion in Greenville, SC, the soon to be location of her and her fiancé Erics wedding reception.

The bridal portraits at Wyche turned out amazing, the lighting was absolutely perfect. After shooting at Wyche, we moved to our next locations, White Whale Studios. The look of this old bungalow style home, with its white-washed plaster-cracking walls worked perfectly for the style we were going for.

We had a great shoot on a beautiful day. We couldn't have asked for much more.

**Become a fan of Mykal McEldowney Photography on facebook HERE
**To see more of Mykal's work go to www.mykalmphotography.com

Kara & Ryan | Greenville, SC Engagement Portraits | August 15, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 21:48:00 +0000

With Kara and Ryan, we just decided to walk Main St. Greenville and find different scenes to shoot their engagements. To me, as a natural light loving photojournalist I enjoyed this idea. Here are some photos from out shoot.

** To see more of my engagement portraits head to this link HERE
Like what you see - connect with me on Facebook - become a fan HERE

Shautonja & Marcus | Greenville, SC Wedding | July 23, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 21:34:00 +0000

What a special day with these two and their families on an absolutely beautiful day. The day started at Twigs Tempietto here in Greenville, SC. All of the girls were getting ready in one wing of the building while the guys waited in the common area -- the only thing dividing them were a couple 4-panel room dividers. I could tell Shautonja was nervous -- not the nervous "OH MY GOD WHAT AM I DOING" but more of the "Wow, its all finally here, its all coming together" nervous. The thing that was making me nervous was that in between working with both Marcus and Shautonja getting preparation/pre-ceremony shots, I kept seeing them trying to sneak peeks at each other. Although very sweet - everyone knows that's bad luck.

With preparations out to of the way, it was ready for the ceremony to begin. The beautiful part about Twigs is that they have an amazing covered area for an outdoor wedding - even in the South Carolina summer heat. I think on this particular day we were at about 105º. I have to show this, sorry Marcus, but with the coordinator ready to start, Marcus took a shot for good luck and headed out with the Pastor and his groomsmen.

Once Marcus and the guys all got up and ready I peaked over at Marcus's brother and he gave me this look. It was so funny and really hard not to laugh at - I wanted to but never asked what it was for - haha.

Shautonja didn't make it one step without letting out her tears of happiness. Her father was just smiles - ear to ear. Once she made it down, her father handed her to Marcus and the pastor started his ceremony. The highlight of the ceremony (other than the rings, the kiss, etc) was that the pastor went through the whole thing, got to the end and pronounced them husband and wife.... yep.... he forgot the whole "You may kiss your wife" section. So, Shautonja said "Can I kiss him and smiled" the people in attendance just laughed and laughed. Moments like that will be something that they can remember for the rest of their lives and just laugh when they think about it.

After the ceremony, we headed to The Westin Poinsett in downtown Greenville, SC. The wedding party jumped into a limo (which just so happened to lose its AC -- remember it's 105º) and drop to the hotel. I got their before them so I could get them pulling up and all that good stuff. When Marcus got out I remember him saying it was actually cooler outside than in the limo.

Here are a couple of their wedding party photos --

Because of the heat, we finished up our photos of the wedding party and headed inside. The reception area was beautiful. They had 3-4 different food stations that people could go to but someone actually tossing different pastas with ingredients.

After the first dances, cake cutting, etc, the dance party began and let me say -- they were some DANCERS. Some weddings, it takes awhile for everyone to get movin' - not this party. It was so fun, I bet they just had a blast.

Throughout the whole process (engagements, wedding, etc.) I had an awesome time working with Shautonja and Marcus. I wish them nothing but the best in the future!

**Become a fan of Mykal McEldowney Photography, LLC on facebook, CLICK HERE
***For more information on Mykal and his photography go to http://www.mykalmphotography.com

Wedding Outtakes - The not so perfect moments on a perfect day

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 22:05:00 +0000

Although every wedding day is perfect in its own little way, I've added an "Outtakes" gallery to show you the lighter moments. I hope you get a little kick out of them. You can check them out HERE

Missy & Zach | Greenville, SC Wedding | August 7, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 19:49:00 +0000

I started working with Missy and Zach this past winter and they have been awesome clients. One of my most memorable moments with them was when I finally saw Zach smile, about halfway through our first engagement portrait session (ha, just kidding Zach, you knew I was going to bring that up). As the months got closer to their wedding, everyday there was a new post on their facebook pages about starting their life together. They are truly in love and you can see it in their photos. My documentation of their wedding day started with some early preparation photos with Missy and the girls. There was food, music and laughter, sharing of old times and ideas of the new to come.

Meanwhile, the guys arrived and started to get ready themselves. "What the hell are these (cuff links)?" "Do we have to wear black socks? All I have are white." "Does the tie go inside the vest?" These were just some of the questions coming from the groomsmen. I honestly laughed so hard watching them get ready -- Zach and his friends really know how to have a good time and joke around with each other.

Once the time of the wedding really started to get closer, I suggested Missy go ahead and get her dress on and tied so we could get some shots of that process. She got it on, tied and ready to go (a 20+ minute process) then figured out something was tickling/poking her on the side. Quick fix - metal hanger.

Yes, I know, I could post the most beautiful photos but I think it's fun to see behind the scenes every now and then.

Wedding time arrived - people were sat, the candles were lit (even though that may have taken a little longer than expected - side joke, people in attendance will know what I mean). I decided to pop out just to make sure I wasn't missing any photo and saw this. Zach and his best man, peeking in, awaiting their turn to make their way to the altar.

The ceremony began and the vows were stated, Missy and Zach then lit their unity candle. When the song was over the pastor made a joke that during that song, everyone could see Missy and Zach talking but in reality Missy was actually telling him what he had done wrong so far. He then suggested to play the song again to let her finish. Everyone laughed, good moment.

Soon after, the ceremony was over and Zach and Missy made their way to the reception.

We started off shooting the bridal party, trying to finish that up first so Missy and Zach, along with the bridal party, could cool off, relax and enjoy the food, drink and company.

See I told you they like to have fun.

After we finished up with the party portraits, Zach and Missy were announced and the reception began. There was all kinds of good food, and the cake looked amazing.

The reception continued with the garter and bouquet toss (both recipients were already predetermined) which was really fun. The series of photos with the bouquet toss are really funny, follow the link below to see the whole thing.

Their wedding reception ended with a bubble send-off and a freshly painted/decorated car.

Missy and Zach were amazing to work with -- I had a great time during each and every shoot we had. I wish them the best of luck and many happy years together.

*To see the rest of the photos from Missy and Zach's Greenville, SC Wedding, CLICK HERE
**Become a fan of Mykal McEldowney Photography, LLC on facebook, CLICK HERE
***For more information on Mykal and his photography go to http://www.mykalmphotography.com

Kelly & Kyle | Charleston, SC Engagement Portraits

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 18:17:00 +0000

After shooting a wedding on Friday evening here in Greenville, SC, I took off early Saturday morning to catch up with Kelly and Kyle in Charleston for their engagement portraits. They both are from Cincinnati, Ohio (I myself am from Ohio) which made this an important shoot for me. I cannot upset the Who Dey Nation with bad photos engagement photos right? We started off shooting in The Battery, a park at the end of Charleston peninsula that use to serve as defensive batteries to protect the city if Fort Sumter fell. Here are a couple of my favorites...

After The Battery, we took off into the streets of Charleston with no real destination in mind. It seems like you could walk one block of Charleston and have multiple opportunities for varying photos. There are so many beautiful homes with amazing architecture and character.

A part of me always wonders when I shoot with couples on the streets of Charleston is what do these home owners think when they see people kissing on their front porch. We definitely saw a couple home owners peeking out of their windows. My opinion -- Don't make your house so awesome if you don't want people to take photos in front of it.

We finished up a few more photos and made our way back to The Battery for just a couple more poses. As we were walking up we saw two pit bulls playing with their owners, unleashed. Now, I love dogs, I have a really big dog but there is something about pit bulls that makes me feel very uneasy. I ask Kyle and Kelly to pose around a light pole and I worked around them getting the photos I needed and finally ended up in a kneeled position with my back to the dogs. I put my cameras down, said that's a wrap and turned around to see two pit bulls sprinting at me -- so obviously I jumped up (and maybe screamed a little). Kelly, being the carefree-relaxed girl she is, went right up to them and started petting, meanwhile, I turn around and Kyle is throwing a 40-yard touchdown pass to one of the owners. Needless to say, my first experience with this couple was awesome and I cannot WAIT to work with both of them again soon.

*To see the rest of the photos from Kelly and Kyle's Charleston, SC Engagement Portrait Session, CLICK HERE
**Become a fan of Mykal McEldowney Photography, LLC on facebook, CLICK HERE
***For more information on Mykal and his photography go to http://www.mykalmphotography.com

Eric & Katie | Greenville, SC Wedding Shower

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 18:53:00 +0000

Eric & Katie | Greenville, SC Wedding Shower : This past Saturday, friends/wedding clients of mine, Eric and Katie had their wedding shower. The Bridesmaids did an amazing job on food (everything was made by the bridesmaids) and location. They had the shower in one of the galleries at the Pendleton Arts Districts here in Greenville, SC.

These cheesecake bites were to die for -- absolutely delicious. Katie and Eric showed up -- greeted everyone and sat down to open all of the presents people brought. On the invite to the shower it stated that they have all of the material goods they need, so provide something that will educate or culture them. It was neat to see what everyone brought -- vinyl records, homemade pottery, original art pieces, beer, and an actual hand-drawn portrait of their first home.

The night continued with food and drink -- It was a great time and I cannot wait to shoot Katie's Bridal Portraits here in Greenville, SC soon and also their Greenville, SC wedding at the end of August.

To see more photos go to my facebook fan page HERE, while you're there -- become a FAN!!
Visit www.mykalmphotography.com

Jeremy & Sarah | Greenville, SC Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 20:55:00 +0000

Jeremy & Sarah | Greenville, SC Wedding Photography - I worked with Sarah and Jeremy on their engagement portraits way back in April. When we first shot, I could see it in both of their eyes that they were so ready to be married and start their life together.

The day of their wedding started out fun and interesting. Sarah was getting her makeup done at a family friends house by professional stylist. The fun started when she first saw herself with all of the makeup on. The thing was, she NEVER wore makeup - ever - not to mention eyelash extenders. She took a look in the mirror and gasped and said "I look like a clown." She really didn't though, she just wasn't used to it -- she looked beautiful and everyone around quickly reassured her of that. One of the flower girls, around the age of 5 (who I will bring up again later) said, "I don't like your eyelashes, they're too long. I don't like your makeup you look different." I just watched Sarah to see her reaction and laughed thinking in my head "uh oh, lets get this little one outa here."

Remember when I told you I was going to "bring up that little girl again"? When here we go. Soon after Sarah had her makeup finished, a few bridesmaids and her mother of course, started to help her get her dress on. It was a beautiful, shape fitting dress with long train -- it was a wonderful dress. Well, the little flower girl didn't think so. "I don't like it! Its too long, it looks weird." I quickly decided to step in and say "Sarah is a princess today, that is why she is wearing such a BEAUTIFUL dress. Don't you think its beautiful for a princess?" After that she was in love with the dress and couldn't stay away from Sarah.

Once Sarah had her dress on I took off to the church, conveniently located 2 minutes away, to catch up with Jeremy and his groomsman. Jeremy, being the great guy he is, warmly welcomed me when I got there -- you could just tell he was SO excited. He was hugging and chatting it up with everyone there.

Basically, here is the wedding in a few photos.

Got it?Alright, lets move to the party portraits. In Greenville, SC some of the best places to do portraits, especially downtown is Falls Park. That is where Sarah and Jeremy decided to do theirs - so I didn't argue. We started off basic and moved into the more fun shots.

Alright, after I saw the guys had flasks I knew I had to use them. I though I saw them sneaking some nips. Here is what we came up with. I told them to "act" like they were drinking out of the flask, some actually did and I felt so bad because I had them posing like this for a good 30 seconds. Ha.

Here are a few more.

Ok, time to get them into the reception. They chose a beautiful venue for a Greenville, SC wedding reception (especially for the photographer). The Westin Poinsett is a gorgeous hotel, located at the heart of downtown, lots of ornate details and one of the most sought-after locations in Greenville for wedding couple portrait. Here is the reception in a few photos.

And finally, my favorite picture of the cake cutting. I love that technology has given literally everyone the ability to take photos and video -- but does this look like some sort of paparazzi gathering? I love it! The quirky things about weddings that no one thinks about.

I wish Sarah and Jeremy the best of luck in the future. To see more photos by Mykal McEldowney Photography, located in Greenville, SC, please go to Mykal McEldowney Photography [dot] com

Become a fan of Mykal McEldowney Photography on facebook HERE

Ryan & Erin | Charleston, SC Engagement Portraits

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 16:00:00 +0000

Charleston, SC Engagement Portraits: Where do I start with this couple. They are genuinely the nicest/southern people you'll ever meet. If you remember, this is the couple that got engaged on the 50-yard line of Memorial "Death Valley" Stadium in Clemson, SC in February (2.18 carat on 2.18.10). Anyways, Erin had the awesome idea to split their engagement shoot into three categories -- Ryan and Erin | Ryan, Erin and Cotton | Ryan and Erin cooking Shrimp n' Grits.
First, we started at the Battery. The Battery is a park at the end of Charleston peninsula that use to serve as defensive batteries to protect the city if Fort Sumter fell. Today it's a peaceful park with monuments reminding of its past use. Here are a few photos from that area --

After the Battery we moved onto the engagement shots with Cotton. He is the most lovable dog, so well mannered and very easy to work with -- dogs, and any animal for that matter, are usually pretty tough to work with. Here are a couple shots from that series.

One of Erin and Ryan's friends was so kind to let us use their BEAUTIFUL home for the Shrimp n' Grits portion of our shoot. It was a nice Charleston-style home that sat right on the marsh. One of Erin and Ryan's favorite things to do as a couple is make this dish -- which I had never had -- its not a huge northern thing. Once they pulled out all of the ingredients my mouth started to water immediately. Take a peek at some of our images from cooking!

If you cannot tell, the shrimp touching above obviously is a heart... We had so much fun, it was a blast working with them and I hope to work with them again soon!!

To see more from out shoot head to Mykal McEldowney Photograph [dot] com

Become a fan of Mykal McEldowney Photography on facebook > CLICK HERE

Wow, I need to catch up

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 14:57:00 +0000

OK. I've been out of commission on blogging here for awhile -- let me catch you up on what I've been up to recently. As of early this week I registered Mykal McEldowney Photography, LLC with the Greenville Chamber of Commerce. As part of joining this month, each business registered was put into a drawing to win different things and I won (which NEVER happens to me) a two night stay at the Hyatt in downtown Greenville, SC. Awesome, I know. I joined the chamber to not only network and spread the word of Mykal McEldowney Photography but to support business growth in Greenville and to get more involved in the community in which I live. I've made some really great contacts already and it seems to be the next big step in making my business grow.

A brand new thing

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 16:58:00 +0000

Today, I added a new incentive on every wedding package listed on www.mykalmphotography.com. As of today, every bride and groom will get their very own, personal website. They are fully customizable with 8 different, stylish and modern templates. You now can add photos, your story, wedding date, RSVP info, links to hotels in the area and much more!! Best part, its all free for the couple!!

Baby Davis

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 12:08:00 +0000

Davis was a wonderful baby to work with. He had such a great little personality, just so happy. For his first birthday, his mother Marsha decided to have some professional images done. So her father made us a #1 sign and it just so happened that Davis learned how to make the number one sign with his hand.

We went through quite a few changes of clothes but the thing I love about working with babies are the props. Marsha brought some really meaningful things that will make every image different yet personal. Here, Davis is playing with a toy his father used to play with.

Here is one of my favorite images from the morning of shooting. I had Marsha help Davis try to walk and you get a pretty nice moment with momma and baby. To see the rest of the photos CLICK HERE or just or go to http://www.mykalmphotography.com

The Rochester-Snipes wedding

noreply@blogger.com (What we do) — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 16:12:00 +0000

Knowing an outdoor wedding is exposed to mother nature I found it necessary to check the weather all week for the Rochester-Snipes wedding. 90% chance of rain all week our meteorologists said, Uh oh... until that Saturday morning that is. 30% and everyone that lives in SC knows that if it isn't at least an 80% chance of rain not to believe it.

Greenville's Kilgore-Lewis House, built in 1838 by Josiah Kilgore, was the setting of this special day. The house was actually moved to its new location on April 24, 1974, from its old Buncombe Street location.

Soon after I arrived -- Elizabeth got a glimpse of what Kim and team @ All in the Details put together, then proceeded to get ready. What most didn't know-- Elizabeth was actually suffering from a stomach bug. Luckily her father had her on some medications and she started to feel much better.

Elizabeth's dads first look of her in her dress.

As the girls got ready to guys started to trickle in to get ready themselves.

Off to the ceremony.

After taking their first walk as Mr. & Mrs. Wes Rochester, they walked back over the white bridge and had a moment to themselves.

And after, Elizabeth knew who she wanted to catch her bouquet and didn't waste a second throwing it to her (sister).

Take a peek at some of their group shots. You can see more HERE too!!

After we finished up our group shots, we all made our way down to the reception area. It was so beautifully put together. Dance floor, stings of lights, amazing details, chefs, etc.

First dance time! AKA some of my favorite images from this whole wedding...

(I love their noses squished together)

Triple Lindy, the band, was awesome. Check them out HERE

Got to love the post-first-dance-fist bump. HA.

After their first dance, Elizabeth invited her father and Wes invited his mother to come and dance. I loved the idea of having both dances at the same time. It was cute to see each Wes and Elizabeth take peeks at each other during the dance.

Here are a few more photos I enjoyed.

Thanks for taking a look behind the scenes @Mykal M Photography. See more photos at Mykal McEldowney Photography dot com