Merry Christmas From The Hills

Benjamin, Willie, Eddie Mae, Tracey, Christy, Jazmine, & Dana

Although this portrait was taken just a few days ago, it has already become a family heirloom. How so? Because FINALLY I have an image that contains ALL of my children and grandchildren. As I'm getting older I'm realizing more each day how significant it is to have these type portraits updated on a frequent basis. And, I say that not because I'm a photographer. It's a historical fact. I have tons of snapshots of my kids and grand kids growing up, but none of us all together in one image.

Therefore, although I'm sharing this Christmas portrait with you and wishing you a Merry Christmas from my family to your yours, don't let 2009 go by without having a professionally created family portrait. It may be the last opportunity to create your family heirloom. Merry CHRISTmas and Happy New Years!

Willie

P.S.: I know a great photographer who can take that family portrait for you.

Jaime Allen (aka Solaris)

Several blogs ago I introduced my readers and clients to Solaris and mentioned that a future portrait session of her was in the works. If you recall Solaris is the stage name of Jamie Allen who is a professional singer. Well, if you liked the images I created of her on-stage, then you're going to love the wonderful images I created of her during a recent portrait session.

For the photographers reading this blog, the majority of the images were created using my Ray Flash ring light and a few were strictly available light. I'm still conducting tests with the ring light and I really like the results that I got this time. In a future blog I'll tell you more about this piece of equipment.

Enjoy!

Willie

Jaime has a stunning face with captivating eyes.

Jaime could ALMOST pass for Marilyn Monroe in this shot.

One of my favorite images of Jaime. Nice!

One of the few available light shots I took.This is one flattering pose for the female form.

I love to create spontaneity in my images.

This is another technique I love...high angles.

Inspirational Thought #6

As God leads our lives, he will do the right thing at the right time.

Max Lucado/Willie Hill, Jr.

Inspirational Thought #5

Tears represent the heart, the spirit, and the soul of a person.

Max Lucado

Jamila & James' Wedding

Most of you know that I'm fairly tall---6'5" to be exact. My height suites me well as a photographer because I can cover subjects high and low with little problem. Very seldom do I have to look up to my subject in order to get a great image.

Well, photographing Jamila and James' wedding was plenty of fun because James is made out NFL stock and Jamila is made out of "sugar and spice and everything nice". Now, James has me by a couple of inches and pounds, but to see him in action as he interacts with Jamila is both poetry and humorous. James' sense of humor and comical banter had me laughing all day during their wedding, too. I'm still laughing. In addition, when he hit the dance floor there was no stopping him. He virtually danced circles around everyone. I don't think the DJ could keep up with him and he was orchestrating the music.

Jamila and her mother, Irene, set the pace of the wedding from the onset with elegance and style that graced the ceremony and reception. The ambiance of the Westin Hotel was immaculate, too. One of the defining moments during the wedding was when Jamila and James dedicated their children to their marriage. Make sure you see that image below.

Jamila's court were elegantly dressed and beautiful.

This angelic portrait of Jamila is priceless.

Irene's last moments with her daughter.

This iconic image of James is sobering although

he has a sense of humor that is just as captivating.

James, his son (in the middle), and best men.

Dana has a sense of relationship with
the guys that always allows her
to create powerful and storytelling images.

The Westin Hotel was an idyllic setting for their wedding.

The entire bridal party.

A girl just has to have fun!

The joining of two families was one of
the emotional highlights of Jamila
and James' reception.

Dad's final dance with his daughter was romantic.

There's a story behind the penguin,
but you'll have to ask James.

James performing his garter removing strut.Somebody turn out the lights, please!!!!!

With the help of DJ Al Jones (in the
background), James pulled off the
most authentic lip syncing I have
ever heard. Check out Jamila's
expression.

Thanks, Jamila and James, for inviting
Dana and me to your special day. It
was incredibly fabulous!

Willie