It was an overcast and rainy day, but that didn’t damper anyone’s moods. The first part of the day was slow and intentional. We took our time taking photos of all of Shelby’s precious details from her dress and veil, to the custom engraved ring box that housed both her and Cheston’s wedding bands. All of the girls wore matching satin pajamas as they took their time preparing their hair and makeup.

The groom’s cabin was on the other side of the lake. Cheston received help from his Best Man (his Papa) and his dad in putting on the finishing touches of his suit. I always find it so special when a family member is chosen to be a Best Man or Maid of Honor. Cheston read a note from his future bride and as well as opened gifts from her and also from his parents.

Now was time for the couple to have a “First Touch.” Shelby and Cheston opted out of having a First Look before the ceremony, wanting to go the more traditional route. However, they still wanted to have a special moment between the two of them. We cracked open one of the barn doors at the venue to allow enough room for the pair to hold hands and have some photos taken. This was such a special moment between the two of them to say a quick hello as they prepared to exchange vows.

Luckily, the rain held off long enough for us to have their ceremony outside in front of a beautiful arch created by Lynbeck Events. These guys not only planned the most magical wedding day for Shelby and Cheston, but they also created ALL of the florals outside of Shelby’s bouquet. And they all turned out stunning.

The ceremony was authentic and full of love. Both sets of parents watched on from the front row as their children exchanged vows. The couple created a symbolic moment where they poured dirt into a shared plant to remind them of their unity.

After the ceremony I caught a glimpse of the new Mr. and Mrs. sharing a sweet and intimate moment that was too perfect not to photograph. We then took some incredibly couples portraits. I know they were absolutely starving so luckily Lynbeck Events brought them each a sandwich to snack on in between shots!

The rain continued to hold out for us long enough to take some gorgeous sunset photos. We had to be VERY careful watching for cars on the street. A police officer even drove by and gave a “congratulations!” to the couple on his intercom. These photos turned out to be some of my favorite of the entire day.

We concluded the night with a gorgeous sparkler exit where all of their friends and family cheered on the newly married couple. Shelby and Cheston were headed down to Daytona, Florida the next morning to enjoy a fun and relaxing honeymoon.

I am so honored that Shelby and Cheston chose me to photograph such a monumental event in their life. I will never take my responsibility as a wedding photographer lightly. I hope you enjoy these beautiful images!

Venue: The Owls Landing

Planning: Lynbeck Events

Photographer: Deep South Photography

The post Romantic Southern Wedding in Killen, Alabama – Shelby + Cheston appeared first on Deep South Photography.

When I received an email from her soon after the expo, I was THRILLED. I wanted to know everything. How they met, what they’re into, all their plans for their dream elopement. She told me how her and Chris both live in Nashville. Carleigh grew up in Alabama, and Chris in Georgia. Chris was a sound engineer for a band and often found himself on the road touring, so they were trying to figure out exactly when their elopement could take place. They decided on the end of September and I officially got them on my calendar!

As we planned out their engagement session, Carleigh told me she wanted something unique. They were both major foodies, into music, and loved hanging with their friends. So they chose the best location to suit their vibe as a couple. A local bar and restaurant in East Nashville that is run by one of their friends – Rosemary and Beauty Queen. We were able to do the session before opening so we had the entire place to ourselves. 

This place absolutely rocks. It oozes with personality from corner to corner. Even the bathrooms have the most aesthetically pleasing wallpapers. There were so many awesome corners to take photos in and we took advantage of every inch of Rosemary. Take a look!

Rosemary has the coolest bar inside. I love the dark green tile along the bottom of the bar and the stained glasses window.

This front room has the most retro velvet, yellow chair. I had Carleigh and Chris alternate sitting in the chair, and even took some shots of her gorgeous ring with the velvet backdrop.

Rosemary has the best outdoor seating/bar area. Like I said, there are so many awesome corners to explore at this place. We took some shots of Carleigh and Chris outside with their shades on.

I mean, this front room is just…..a dream. These two look like an oil painting.

Carleigh and Chris told me that the first time they danced together was at Rosemary. So I asked them to demo some of their dancing skills so I could capture it all.

This is Rosemary’s 2nd bar area. They have the neatest stretch booths with mirrors covering the walls. I whipped out my flash so we could get some nightclub-esque type shots.

Thank you Carleigh and Chris for allowing me to capture this amazing time in your lives.

The post Retro Engagement Session in Nashville, Tennessee – Carleigh + Chris appeared first on Deep South Photography.

We started by planning out their engagement session, and where exactly they wanted to do it. I proposed a few different locations and Alix chose the one location I was HOPING deep down she would choose – a waterfall in Bankhead National Forest!

We met up at a Dollar General about 20 minutes from the trailhead so we could carpool together and get to know each other more on the drive. My husband Tim accompanied us to provide moral support, take behind the scenes footage, and MOST importantly, carry all my gear on the hike. Let me just say, my husband is an absolute trooper. Thank you, Tim.

When we got to the trail head, we were greeted by a father and son who owned the property where most hikers park to reach the waterfall. They were friendly, hilarious, and even offered us bug spray. True southern hospitality at its finest.

The hike took us about 20 minutes (if you subtract the 5 minutes or so where I got us all lost!) – it is confirmed, I am a photographer, not an outdoorsman. It was a brisk walk, and I was thankful the temperature was in the 80s that day and not high 90s like it’s been here in Alabama!

When we reached out destination, we all stood in awe for a moment at the absolutely beautiful waterfall in front of us. I had Alix and Billy remove their shoes and get comfortable for our adventure session. They were so down to earth, and happy to try all sorts of silly posing I threw their way. To say I am beyond excited for their wedding this October would be an understatement. I so enjoyed our session, and even more, getting to know the two of them while hiking through the woods of Alabama. Thank you both for trusting me to capture such a special time in your lives. 

The post Romantic Waterfall Engagement in Double Springs, Alabama – Alix + Billy appeared first on Deep South Photography.

I met Sam at a wedding expo in Florence, Alabama earlier this year. She struck my interest when she told me she loves non-traditional weddings – I said “sign me up!”. We connected shortly after that and chatted about the details of their dreamy downtown wedding planned for the fall of this year.

Sam and Jamie asked if we could take their engagement photos at the place they had their very first date – Turbo Coffee. I basically lived off of Turbo’s “Samoa” acai bowls when I was pregnant, so I was all for shooting at this local coffee shop. Sam got herself a green matcha latte which was fitting with St. Patrick’s Day fast approaching. Jamie sipped on a hot drink out of Turbo’s classic coffee mug. I asked the duo to think back to their first date – how it felt, what they talked about, anything and everything. I love to help a couple reflect on the history of their relationship in hopes that it shines through in their engagement session.

Sam and Jamie rocked out in their matching Nike tennis shoes. Their outfits were casual yet trendy – giving me of a cool 90s vibe. To say these two looked like they walked straight out of a magazine would be an understatement. They looked amazing.

After Turbo Coffee, we walked around downtown Florence, Alabama. We stopped outside of an old Piano shopped called Ryan Piano Co. We enjoyed beautiful lighting as golden hour was upon us, as well as some perfect weather. Sam mentioned to me prior to the shoot that they were a tad nervous to have their photos taken. But, you’d never know it by looking at their photos. They are both extremely photogenic and very natural in front of the lens.

Their wedding will be held at Pickett on Court in Downtown Florence and I am SO pumped for it. November cannot get here soon enough!

I love the aesthetic of Turbo Coffee. It has a casual yet modern feel.

I couldn’t help but snap a photo of their matching tennis shoes. Especially against the awesome tile flooring at the coffee shop.

Sam kept getting a green matcha mustache from her drink! She said it was delicious though so I’d say it was worth it.

Sam’s engagement ring is absolutely stunning.

I love capturing candids of couples from hidden viewpoints.

I told Jamie to run up behind Sam and pretend like he was kidnapping her. It made for some adorable photos.

The post Downtown Florence, Alabama Engagement – Sam + Jamie appeared first on Deep South Photography.

We decided on an open field filled with wild high grass for their session. The sun was out and shone perfectly on the expecting couple. I’ve photographed Sarah and Stephen before and they are honestly some of my favorite people to work with. They put so much trust in me and my direction during a session. They are so clearly in love with each other and that shows in every image we captured together. They have the ability to get silly and playful in one moment, then more loving and intimate in another. I appreciate that they are so trusting of my direction and vision for their sessions.

People often explain to me that they feel extremely nervous and uncomfortable leading up to their first session in front of the camera. I always tell try to comfort them by explaining how incredibly common this is! My biggest advice? Focus on your partner and be in the moment. I mean, REALLY be in the moment. Reflect on your relationship. Think about how fortunate you are to have that person in your life. If you’re expecting new life, imagine what your child will look like. What their interests and favorite color will be. Being in the moment is so vital, whether it be a maternity session, engagement session, or even you wedding or elopement day. If you’re unsure what to do – look to your partner. Just live in this special moment together as a couple. At the end of the day that’s what it’s all about. Capturing the moments between you two.

If you’re feeling unsure and would like to read some more tips, feel free to check out my blog post on preparing for an engagement session (but don’t worry, these tips apply to all couples sessions!).

The post Intimate Maternity Photoshoot in Florence, Alabama appeared first on Deep South Photography.

ECOSYSTEM

Positive growth.

What is a first look?

Traditionally, a couple would first see one another on their wedding day walking down the aisle. A first look allows you to see your partner BEFORE the ceremony – to have a special moment between the two of you and to capture some beautiful images. 

I personally always recommend a first look to all of my couples. Here’s why.

Why have a first look?

#1 – Eases your nerves

Instead of seeing your partner for the first time in front of a crowd of people, we can make this a more intimate moment for the two of you. Having a first look means you can release those wedding jitters that have been building up all morning as you were getting ready.

The pressure will officially be off of you and your partner when the ceremony begins. You’ve already seen how amazing you both look and now you can just focus on getting married!

The post appeared first on Deep South Photography.

Traditionally, a couple would first see one another on their wedding day walking down the aisle. A first look allows you to see your partner BEFORE the ceremony – to have a special moment between the two of you and to capture some beautiful images. 

I personally always recommend a first look to all of my couples. Here’s why.

Why have a first look?

#1 – Eases your nerves

Instead of seeing your partner for the first time in front of a crowd of people, we can make this a more intimate moment for the two of you. Having a first look means you can release those wedding jitters that have been building up all morning as you were getting ready.

The pressure will officially be off of you and your partner when the ceremony begins. You’ve already seen how amazing you both look and now you can just focus on getting married!

#2 – More time after the ceremony

Something most people don’t think about is how the logistics will work if you DON’T have a first look. Taking the traditional route means you are cramming your couple’s portraits, wedding party portraits, AND family portraits in after the ceremony. Think about it – you just said your “I do’s,” and you’re on Cloud-9. You probably are itching to go have some fun at cocktail hour with all of your friends and family. BUT, now you’ll need to take lots of portraits with a lot of people in a very small window of time. If you have a first look, you can take a lot of those portraits before the ceremony even begins, meaning more time at cocktail hour and more time socializing with your guests!

#3 – You’ll get more photos

Since you now have more time because you’re not cramming all your portraits in after the ceremony, you’ll likely get more photos of you and your partner. These photos will also feel more intentional and relaxed since you won’t be in a rush. 

#4 – It’s more intimate

As a photographer, one of my absolute favorite things to photograph is a first look. The moment your partner turns around and sees you dressed to impress is just….priceless. You’ll likely get a more authentic reaction from your partner than you would in front of all your guests. With a first look, you two can slow down. Take each other in. And really be in this moment that you can never experience again.

#5 – You can freshen up before the ceremony

Lastly, a first look allows you to freshen up before the ceremony. If you or your partner shed some tears when first seeing each other, you can fix yourself up and be 100% ready to go come ceremony time. 

Conclusion

At the end of the day, this is YOUR wedding day. No one else’s. If you can’t imagine not seeing your loved one down the aisle for the first time that day, then go the traditional route! That’s absolutely OK, and any experienced photographer will be more than confident to help you work out the logistics of that. But, if the above points are really speaking to you, or you’re just on the fence, let’s set up an immensely special and beautiful first look for you two. I promise it will be worth it.

Meet the photographer

Kathleen Kirby is a wedding and elopement photographer located in Florence, AL. She specializes in truly in love couples who want their day to reflect their genuine selves. She is inclusive to all people who want to capture their love story in a beautiful and authentic way.

Reach out!

The post Top 5 Reasons to Have a First Look appeared first on Deep South Photography.

Let me help answer some of your burning questions and hopefully alleviate some unnecessary stress.

What the heck should we wear?

If you aren’t physically comfortable in your outfit, let’s try something else. I want you in something that you feel like a million bucks in. No matter how dressed up or dressed down that is. Maybe it’s your “comfy shorts” (yes, I have those too), or your worn in converse. If you’re comfortable and happy, I’m happy.

Instead of wearing what you think you’re supposed to wear, or wearing what’s trendy, let’s think about what YOU actually like. Sometimes looking at too many Pinterest ideas can get us into trouble. We all have different styles and tastes. This session should reflect your personal sense of style.

Where are you getting photographed? Is it your bedroom? Wear your comfy clothes. Is it a retro arcade? Let’s look for some 60s inspo. A beautiful field? Skip the heels so you can skip around and frolic.

If you really have no clue what to wear, go for neutrals. Or if you’re like me who naturally gravitates towards neutrals because you absolutely love them, do it. Neutrals look great on all of us, and they can help the images focus on you and your partner rather than your outfits.

• What are some accent pieces you can incorporate to show off your style a bit more? Maybe it’s your favorite statement earrings, or some suede boots, perhaps an old school scarf. Don’t be afraid to try out different accessories.
• Let’s skip on the whole matchy-matchy thing. Many of us naturally think we need to perfectly match our partner for our session. Instead, let’s think how your outfits can complement each other.
• Avoid large logos. It can easily turn into a Nike ad if we aren’t careful.
• Remove distracting elements. That apple watch you’re wearing might be distracting and date your photos when you look back on them in a few years.

We are so awkward in front of the camera, what do we do?

TRUST your photographer. Odds are you like their work, right? Trust that they know what to do with you to achieve the look you’re after. For me what that looks like is getting silly, getting messy, getting intimate – experiencing a whole range of emotions during your session.

All I ask is that you trust me and try your best to be in the moment and not in your head. The majority of us are NOT models, and even professional models feel self-conscious at times. Realize this is normal. I don’t need OR want you to be perfect. I want you to be real. Interact with each other like you normally do. Pretend like you’re at home on the couch eating Chinese food, being silly. Being sweet. Being you. We’re gonna photograph that and it will be great. Promise.

My partner isn’t really feeling having their photos taken, what do I do?

We really need both of ya’ll to be down for this adventure. If it’s a matter of them feeling awkward, read the above blurb. If they still aren’t convinced, show them another couples’ session or two so they can get a full taste of what they’ll get from your session. We’re telling a story of your relationship for you to look back on years from now. And if they’re still not convinced, have them talk to me. As someone married to a person who is less than thrilled to have his photos taken, I totally get it. But at this point he fully understands the power of photographs and how we’ll never get these moments back. And plus, 10/10 of people say they actually had fun at the end of their session. I bet your partner will be one of them.

What about weather? What if it…..rains?!

This is something on most people’s minds if they’ve decided to have an outdoor session. I get it, we fear the unknown, and even more, we fear what we can’t control. This is another chance to exercise trust in your photographer. Every photographer is different, but for me, we will shoot rain or shine, unless of course there is truly dangerous weather forecasted. I have a couple clear umbrellas on deck for you and your partner to get nice and cozy under. 

Having a plan B may be smart though. Is there an indoor space we could move your session to? A coffee shop you two had your first date at? A brewery you like to hit up after work after a stressful day? Maybe it’s just your home where you two are starting to build your life together. Let’s brainstorm.

And if all else fails, we can discuss the possibility of moving your session to another date that works for all of us. I want you to be more than thrilled about your session location!

Conclusion

Meet the photographer

Kathleen Kirby is a wedding and elopement photographer located in Florence, AL. She specializes in truly in love couples who want their day to reflect their genuine selves. She is inclusive to all people who want to capture their love story in a beautiful and authentic way.

Reach out!

The post How to Prepare for Your Engagement Session appeared first on Deep South Photography.

Eloping is near and dear to my heart since my husband Tim and I eloped in 2019. As a photographer, I love ALL sorts of weddings – elopements, small intimate weddings, bigger traditional weddings, you name it. What matters is that you and your partner make it about YOU. You’re the ones who will look back on the day and remember every little detail. Why not make those details the things that you love?

A common misconception about eloping is that it needs to be 1.) last minute/rushed and 2.) in a remote location in a foreign country. But eloping in the modern day means those two things aren’t always necessarily true.

Most couples I work with who choose to elope are very open with friends/family of their choice and they often spend just as much time planning their elopement as couples planning more traditional weddings.

Sara and Chase wanted to get married in the place where their love story started, Florence, Alabama. They wanted a unique anniversary so they chose 2.2.22 for their big day. When I first chatted with Sara I asked her “what do you guys like to do as a couple?” We talked about various parks and restaurants in the Shoals area that her and Chase frequent. As we got closer to the big day there was rain forecasting alllll day long. We whipped out some clear umbrellas and had the most magical day hitting up different spots in Florence.

We started the day at Sara and Chase’s house in Florence, Alabama where we took our time getting ready and listened to a shared musical interest, Alt-J. I was greeted by 2 of Sara and Chases’ FOUR cats. That’s right – four. Being a cat momma myself, I absolutely welcomed this greeting.

After some sweet and stress-free getting ready photos, we made out way to Wilson Park for the pair to exchange vows. This is one thing I really loved about Sara and Chase’s elopement day. They chose to say their “i-do’s” at a park in town that was so meaningful to their relationship. Talk about an easy ceremony location! Eloping in a neighborhood park downtown is such a brilliant move. Especially if you choose a slower day of the week like they did. You can almost always have the place to yourself and it becomes to much more intimate.

A quick trip to a notary, and then the Florence courthouse made it official. In the state of Alabama it’s actually quite easy to elope. You just need to head to their web site and download a form which you’ll sign with your partner in front of a notary. Exchanging vows is technically optional although I HIGHLY recommend it. It’s such a special moment between you and your partner where you can profess your love and make the promise of a lifetime of love. And I will be there documenting the entire thing and help cheer you one when you exchange your first kiss!

We made our way back to Sara and Chase’s home to celebrate with some homemade cheesecake that Sara made. They even got a custom cake topper with themselves and their 4 cats!

We then stopped by Rivertown Coffee in downtown Florence. Out front of the restaurant is a large metal heart with several locks. The couple purchased their own lock and marked it with their anniversary date. I love these photos of them putting the lock on the heart!

The day was finished at one of Sara and Chase’s favorite restaurants – Taco Mama . The pair split some chips, salsa, and a refreshing margarita.

I then said my goodbyes to the newlyweds to enjoy the rest of their special and unique day as husband and wife.

The post Downtown Florence, Alabama Elopement – Sara + Chase appeared first on Deep South Photography.

Muscle Shoals Sound opened in 1969 and has recorded more top hits from a variety of artists than I can name. There’s so much history in this little brick building located at 3614 N Jackson Hwy in Sheffield, AL. It really is a magical place to be, and even more, have the pleasure of taking photographs at.

Elizabeth and Hunter were the absolute sweetest. I cannot wait to photograph them tying the knot in Birmingham, AL this coming October!

The post Muscle Shoals Sound Studios Engagement – Elizabeth + Hunter appeared first on Deep South Photography.