Sometimes when I sit down to write a blog post, the words just don't come. But as I stare at the pictures, emotions well up and feelings push to become words...  

Words that I want to say about that one night on the beach in Maine when we lit a Chinese lantern together.

The moment: well, it was hurried. I was the photographer, you were the assistant, and we wanted photos of us actually enjoying being guests for 2 minutes.

We were exhausted, but overwhelmed with the beautiful day, the beautiful ocean, the beautiful bride and groom, and the beautiful lanterns.

But when I reminisce, I wish I would've been more in the moment. Less the photographer and more the guest. Less the planner and more along for the ride. Less the I-want-this-photo-to-be-perfect-so-I'll-smile-and-stand-like-this and more just being.

Because as much as I really do want the beautiful photos of us... a beautiful photo means absolutely nothing without a beautiful memory.

And beautiful memories are only made by being all there. Enjoying every moment. 

So please... Enjoy your Friday and have a lovely weekend. :)

Sunil and I are super busy this summer and fall - we're both volunteer staff at our church now, I have several weddings coming up, and we're making a bunch of roadtrips! Despite all the craziness, I absolutely LOVE summer because it's when I do most of my family sessions; which you all know are my favorite. :) To give you guys all a head start on booking your family photos (Christmas is around the corner - craaazy!) I'm having a sale which is effective immediately: 15% off any session in August!

To take advantage of this sale, click here to fill out my contact form, or simply email me at: amanda@amanda-joy-photography.com to schedule your session for August!

Can't wait to see all your smiling faces! :)