In photography, the term “The Rule Of Thirds” refers to the composition of a photo.  A photographer is challenged to envision an imaginary grid that divides the scene into 3 rows and 3 columns, forming 9 equal parts.  Then, we are told that if we place our subject, or other important compositional elements along these lines (or, bonus, their intersections) we will have composed a more interesting photo.  It’s all quite technical, and to be completely honest, I have always found that my best images are created when I don’t “over-think” it.  What?  Julie is capable of NOT over-thinking something?  Crazy talk!

The Rule of Thirds is a helpful rule of thumb for photographers, but it’s not what I’m referring to today.  Today I’m talking about thirds, threes, a few.  When talking about family, three really is company.  When I first met with Amber and Jay to discuss their photography needs, they brought Amber’s adorable eight-year-old son, Roman.  They mentioned how important it was for Roman to be involved in their photos, because this union wasn’t really just about them, it was about the creation of a family.  Becoming a threesome.

I immediately loved this couple for several reasons:  1.  They laughed at my jokes.  2.  They were having a beach wedding, and really who doesn’t love a beach wedding?  3.  They were the sweetest, most easy-going people I have met in a long time.  4.  Amber starts her emails to me with phrases like “Dear Sweet Jewels”  GAH!  LOVE HER!  4.  Did I mention that they laughed at my jokes?

Amber and Jay wanted their engagement session to be in a more urban setting, so I scouted a few locations downtown and in the end we ended up spending a lovely afternoon together in Shockoe Bottom.  I loved the lines of all the cool old architecture and overpasses, and  how the city juxtaposed so nicely with the softness of Canal Walk.  Perfection.  Amber and Jay pretty much laughed the entire time, and Roman had a great time collecting little souvenirs like bits of railroad, and other general “boy things.”  One of my favorites parts to our time together was watching the way that Jay and his soon-to-be-stepson related to one another.  It may not be on paper yet, but those boys are already family in every way that counts.  Amber and Jay are such an incredible couple, and their love of life and laughter is obviously reflected in their parenthood.  Roman is a lucky young man.

So here are a few of the photos we captured during my engagement/family session with these lovely people.  I hope they had as much fun as I did (how could they not, with all my hilarious jokes, right??)

Amber, Jay, and Roman: You guys are absolutely amazing.  I had such a great time laughing with you guys all afternoon, and I can’t wait for your wedding.  You guys are truly  beautiful people and it’s an honor to be working with you (and thanks for laughing at my stupid jokes…I know it was a chore…my ego appreciates it.)

Hugs,

~Jewels