Richard came to the U.S. in 2009 on a full scholarship to play soccer at the University of Rio Grande. The interesting thing about Richard was that he did not know the English language whatsoever. He and I met at a college social event that November, and the instant attraction was mutual. He was able to understand my name and say hello, but our conversation was pretty much at a standstill from that point; however, that’s where our story begins.

We managed to hang out the entire night and dance, laugh, and enjoy one another’s company without knowing one another’s language. At the end of the night, we went our separate ways. Due to him not having a cell phone in the U.S., we were unable to exchange phone numbers. We essentially lost our contact after that night, and it would not be until March of 2010 that I would receive a text message from an unknown number…it was Richard. We began talking via text, and the first thing I noticed was that he was able to hold a conversation in English. He had learned in just a few short months how to speak the language.

Our relationship wouldn’t really begin, however, until 7 months later in October. We only hung out once from March to October, and it was a short lived evening with friends due to Richard leaving for New Orleans for the summer for soccer. We kept in contact throughout that summer, and once he returned to Ohio, he immediately started asking to see me. I really wasn’t trying to play hard to get, but subconsciously, I was. I finally decided to say yes to meeting up with Richard. We, with our friends, went out together on October 30, 2010, and we have been together ever since.

We knew only 3 months after being together that we were soul mates. He said, “I love you”, and I did too! Then, just 6 months into our relationship, Richard got down on one knee at the University of Rio Grande where we met and proposed! Of course, I said, “YES!!!” And on June 30, 2012, I get to say, “I DO!” to this amazing man! It has been a wonderful journey with him to this point and cannot wait to continue into the new chapters ahead of us together as husband and wife.

. . . . . . . . . .
You’re both remarkably beautiful people inside and out. We can’t wait to document your special day. Love and appreciation to you both…

Maya and Thai . . . don’t you ever grow up.

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Come join me and Lauryn Byrdy of Lauryn Byrdy Photography on March 29th for a 2-hour Beginner’s Photography Workshop. This is for non-professionals looking to learn the ins-and-outs of their DSLR and how to get the best image from it. We’ve changed up the format quite a bit from last year to include more shooting and demo time. During the workshop, you will be hearing from Lauryn and I about the how-to’s of shooting technique and camera function using class time to practice and discuss your shots, we’ll send take-home information on how to go from on-camera, to computer (editing and archiving), to print and share photos in an image-safe, organized way. There will be a short demo on editing basics and ample time for photography Q&A.

Who: This class is for anyone with a very basic understanding of their DSLR interested in learning how to take better photos.

When: Thursday, March 29, 2012 from 6 pm to 8 pm

Where: Lauryn Byrdy Photography studio at 2134 Arlington Ave, Upper Arlington, OH 43221, corner of Guilford and Arlington Ave. We’ll be meeting in the newly added on workshop room.

Cost: $75

Includes: 2 instructors, workshop presentation including demonstrations, instructed shoot time, a take-home package, Q&A, light snacks and drinks, and some great photography giveaways from both Lauryn and I  PLUS more great giveaways from Midwest Photo!

Bring: your digital SLR and any equipment you have related to the camera that you might have questions about

I love how down-to-earth the Beten family was and Sydney was incredibly funny – what a hoot. Pretty soon little Sydney will be a big sister and I can’t wait to document their lives together. Congratulations to the Beten family on their soon to arrive little boy. Here are some moments from our recent session.  I especially love story time with mommy and daddy…

I wanted to take a moment and share a bit of news we received from The Knot. I’m extremely excited to be able to officially make the announcement that Open Image Studio is the recipient of The Knot Best of Weddings 2012 Pick. This is one of those special awards that would totally not be possible without all the incredible support from all of you, our friends and clients. It’s a wonderful honor and privilege to receive this recognition once again and I thank you all wholeheartedly. Much love and appreciation to everyone of you, THANK YOU!

Say hello to Enzo.  Spend five minutes with Enzo and I promise you’ll want to take him home with you.  Here’s a few from his backyard.  Simple and lots of fun…

Another amazing year spent with some of the most incredible people.  It was a year filled with so many emotions that I couldn’t even begin to describe.  Through it all though, it was a year packed with beautiful connections, laughter, and love.  I feel so fortunate to have had the privilege to work with some extraordinary clients this year.

So, this is my toast and thanks to all those who have graciously entered my life this year and made it that much better.  Thank you to all my amazing clients, without you it would not be possible for me to continue doing what I love most. Thank you for including me in your lives, your families, and your journey.

It has been an honor and privilege being your friend and photographer. Thank you for allowing me to capture so much of who you are.  I’ll always remember your laughs, your hugs, high fives, and yes – low fives too.  I am so grateful for each and every one of you. Much love and appreciation to you all.  Cheers to a great 2012.

THANK YOU.

P.S. Highlights from 2011 soon to follow and a post wouldn’t be proper without a photo. Say hello to the adorable, Harper Violet, photographed just a few days ago…