There was this "pose" I wanted to try. I wanted to capture one series with the focus on the fiancé. So I instructed Paul to look at me with somewhat of gentle face, with less focus on Chelsea in the background. This is the shot we were going for... do you hear a but coming?
But to get there... Chelsea knew Paul's weakness and began whispering secrets in his ear and well... These were the bloopers for us to get there. I wouldn't quite call them bloopers, this is truly their personality shining bright!
And here are more facets of what makes Chelsea and Paul's bond so beautiful. oxox
oxox, L
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There's not enough room in this blog post space to share the game changing moments we've created together. So just a few personal posts.
Your family...
Us...
"Out of your Brilliant mind!" A shout out to graphic artists, John Decuir of LA and Nathan Else, for your help with this legendary poster.
Andrea Bocelli & Eugene Kohn
Maria Aleida
Caroline Campbell
Heather Headley
The genuine love, laughter, and tears of joy being blessed over them and with them by all their guests was overwhelmingly something to behold.
Nicole & Mike, ThankQ it was an honor!
Mike's father's honorable rite of passage to assist him.
A few of Nicole's details...
Nicole's sister and Matron of honor Jessy, assists her with her final touches.
Just a Mommy Moment!
Nicole met Mike on a private dock for his first glance.
St. Francis De Sales
Her father's rite of passage
Priceless moment, as Nicole's father watches watches his little girl leave the church.
Celebrating their love with 280 of their closest friends and family
Her father toasts and blesses their lives together!
Her baby sister Jessy toasts her love and respect
Mike's brother summarized and revealed Mike's childhood to 280 guests with a speech that had the entire room laughing with happy tears!
Mike and Nicole Graham's First Dance as husband and wife.
Nicole's father added the perfect touch of spicy and joy to his first dance.
Mike's beautiful mother Kathy has such a wonderful spirit.
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Kristina had no idea when she was planning her wedding that it would be a day full of rain. Most bride's greatest fear is rain on their wedding day. Not Kristina, she embraced it as she embraces her husband Jason. They were married outdoors under a white tent, even the sermon was surrounded about rain, the Pastor had Jason open an umbrella to "protect" Katrina - not just from the evening's rain, but from the unexpected that may come their way. Some people dance in the rain, other's sing, Jason and Kristina were married in the rain! And they embraced it! May you always embrace whatever life brings you. oxox, Lynne
When I first met Lisa in Cancun at her renewal of vows, those words she spoke could not be more true, I felt so blessed to be there witnessing and photographing 25 years of love, the kind of love that made it through the beautiful mess life brings. Their two children Jake, and Kennedy walked her down the aisle to their father, and stood as their maid of honor and best man, with 22 family and friends witnessing, blessing and celebrating with them.
There was no escaping the Caribbean sea wind that day nor their love! Here's to you Lisa and Jim O'Neill.
There was no escaping or stopping the Caribbean Sea wind, nor their love, as a couple and a family...
Lisa and Jame's little happy dance!
Family and friends who came from IL to to celebrate, support and bless their continued love.
THIS is what 25 years of love and endurance looks like...
How fun is this! Seeing a father and son laughing and hugging on the beach because the tide decided to take Jake.
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Anytime I photograph babies and children this song comes to mind. It IS my prayer for my own children.
Recently I photographed Harper, 4 months old with her parents Lisa and Geoff. I want to share the love, laughter and bonds of their family, in pics and in video.
Lisa and Geoff, this is for you!
Your personal youtube link: (click the link) A Mother's Prayer
And enjoy the moments below, thankQ for allowing me into your world. oxo, L.
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Surrounded by family and friends, blessings and laughter, here is their beautiful love story. You can also find their guest's photojournalism on social media at #eatdrinkandbeblevins.
Wishing you both a life FULL of life, oxox L.
A castle...
With a beautiful gown...
And a few accessories...
Friends that love you enough to pray over you...
Until happy tears pool up on your shoulder...
The same friends that will wipe them dry so your make-up doesn't smudge, and stand by your side watching guests arrive...
Sometimes joy requires TWO tissues...
His father awaits, and helps him with his cufflinks...
And his mother pins his boutonnière...
Bidding him one last hug...
A groom who knows, "She's his!"
A mother preparing to gift her daughter with her grandmother's bracelet...
A grandfather who handcrafted the wooden box that will hold their rings...
A father who awaits his first glance, before he will give her away...
Whitney smiles as she looks below at Brandon awaiting his first glance...
As the grandfather clock strikes 4pm, she looks out over her the guests below... It's time...
Mr. and Mrs. Blevins!
50 years of wisdom, for them to call upon...
And at the end of a beautiful day, someone to hold you...
To Dustin and Jeffery, I wish you a life time of, "Vows" and "New Year's Eve Dates! oxox, Lynne
Dustin, My Love,
Today I give you the rest of my life. With my whole heart and mind, I promise forever to love you, support you, and lean on you. I will treat will you with kindness and care, and I will give you all of me every day.
I will laugh with you and cry with you.
I will be scared with you and I will be brave with you.
I will fight with you, and I will make up with you.
I will wonder with you, ask with you, pray with you, decide with you, and learn with you.
I will spend with you and save with you; plan with you and play with you.
I will build you up, not tear you down.
I will hold you, not push you away.
I will be faithful to you, and I will have faith in you.
I will be open to you, and I will cover you.
Good times and bum times.
You are and will forever be my one and only love, and I promise that as long as we are living, I will live to create and maintain a home and family life with you that is fulfilling, joyful, and filled with love. And if ever again I win as precious a lottery as I did when you chose me, I will share it with you.
Jeffrey,
The day that we first met was mostly an ordinary day, except we started rehearsing a show together. How was I to know that I had just met the love of my life.
The day that we realized that we were in love was mostly an ordinary day, except it happened to be New Years Eve. How was I to know that that love would last forever.
Today is mostly an ordinary day…except we just so happen to be getting married. It’s, once again, New Years Eve, and this time, I know exactly what I'm in for. From this day on we will grow as a team, and no longer as individual players, and before we know it; no one will remember when we were separate.
I stand here in front of you and all of our friends to bear my soul and promise that you are the thing I can't bare to lose. These promises are a bargain of love; despite all odds - trip us or trap us; we will always be there to catch the other!
So, My promise to you is:
to always be your date on New Years Eve.
to comfort you in times of sorrow, especially during a rough Seahawks season.
to always listen to you, even when you’re wrong.
to always be right, even when you think I’m wrong.
to always yell when I’m mad.
to always apologize when it turned out that you were right, after all.
I vow to be the best parts of me that fit perfectly with the best parts of you.
Although I will be imperfect, I pledge to be sensitive and respectful of your unique talents, abilities and quirks.
I pledge to lend you strength to make all of your dreams come true, and to pressure you when you are ignoring them.
You are my love, my best friend, and my partner. Together we will do more than I could ever do alone. I believe in you, I believe in me, I believe in us.
A day in the life of “Front Row Phyllis,” Chicago’s heartbeat of entertainment news... Last week I had a wonderful time photographing her while she was filming at the Jam Lab, more pics to come. Phyllis brings vivacious to another level; her energy is contagious, knowledgeable, and informative. She’s just one more reason to love this beautiful city of Chicago! Here are some upcoming entertainment acts coming to Chicago, that Front Row Phyllis shares with Fox News and the world!
Phyllis Klein with Corey McPerrin and Darlene Hill on the set of Fox News (below)
Trans Siberian Orchestra coming Dec. 27th ALLSTATE ARENA
LeeAnn Rimes Dec. 18th to the ARCADA THEATER
The Newsies Dec. 10th through Jan. 4th to the ORIENTAL THEATER
Cinderella The Musical Dec. 16th through Jan 4, at the CADILLAC THEATER
Kiss FM Jingle Ball Dec. 18th to the ALLSTATE ARENA and Trans Siberian Orchestra Dec. 27th to the ALLSTATE AREA
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During the CBS interview, Sharon Osbourne stated that it was her husband Ozzy’s idea to bring the show back. She stated, “He looked back on his life and he said, ‘I wish we could have done ‘The Osbournes’ now where I’m clean and sober.’”
Of course, I was not aware of the fact that all of this was happening when I photographed the Osbournes at a Brent Shapiro Foundation event recently in Beverly Hills, California. What I was aware of however, was a visibly close family who was incredibly supportive of each other.
I was introduced at the event on the media press list as Bo Jackson’s photographer. For those who aren’t aware, The Brent Shapiro Foundation was created in honor of the Shapiro’s son, Brent, who died as a result of an overdose. In giving back, Robert Shapiro and his wife, Linell, have dedicated themselves to raising awareness through education; removing the stigma and isolation associated with the disease of addiction, and supporting parents, teachers, and caregivers with the tools for communicating the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse effectively.
Ironically, it was during the reality show, “The Osbournes,” where Jack Osbourne, according to press interviews, states that his misuse of prescription medication and alcohol took him over. In an MTV interview discussing his addiction and recovery he states, “I had smoked pot and drank every day for two years.” He added that he was using a lot of opiate based drugs like OxyContin.
In 2013, Osbourne sought treatment for his addiction. Since that time, he has been clean and sober and has continued to be open about his addiction and subsequent recovery. During a brief red carpet interview at the Brent Shapiro Foundation’s event, he talked about the importance of giving support to others who are in trouble. He expressed that “coming from a loving place” is the approach that needs to be taken when helping someone through recovery.
Jack Osbourne received the Spirit of Recovery Award for Service that night. When he took the stage he shared his story. He was courageous and incredibly down to earth. He spoke about his support system and the importance of helping others who are in trouble.
I was able to capture the moment where the loving place he talked about on the red carpet met the loving place in Robert Shapiro, as well as in the visibly proud Osbourne family sitting in the audience. All of the emotion I saw took my breath away.
Above Jack Osbourne accepting his Spirit of Recovery Award from Robert. He then sat down and proudly held his award for me to photograph.
Quite often I am asked what it is like to have the opportunity to meet and photograph so many celebrities. My answer to this question is always the same. I don’t see any of them as celebrities. I see them as people – Having several as friends, they experience the same light and darkness as all human beings do.
The experience at the Brent Shapiro Foundation event was no exception. I saw men and women young and old, from every area of entertainment, come together for a cause that is so important. My lens captured smiles, laughter, and tears … it even caught me with some of Brent's club kids. However, what my lens caught on stage between Jack Osbourne and Robert Shapiro said it all; love, support, courage, and hope for generations to come.
Robert and Linell are true humanitarians; aiding children and adults around the country!
I ask that you join me in supporting the Brent Shapiro Foundation. Every dollar makes a difference. After watching their story, you will most definitely understand its importance. Please follow the link here:
Sources:
Jack Osbourne @ 2014 Brent Shapiro Foundation Gala Red Carpet | Black Hollywood Live Interview
The Brent Shapiro Foundation
]]>Matt Slauson, at a mere 6' 5", 315 pounds, saw his son, Montgomery James, approach the sideline with his wife. As Matt approached his family, plays and scores no longer had any significance. Matt took off his helmet, walked over to his son, knelt down on one knee, and embraced the place where his real riches reside. As I captured the moment there was a smile on my face and water beading in my eyes, much like the sweat that beaded on Matt's brow.
The media has spent a great deal of time discussing various NFL players and alleged abuses. While I applaud the fact that domestic abuse awareness has come to the forefront, it saddens me that it had to take “abuse caught on tape” for it to become a National conversation. I can only hope that the media continues this conversation. Domestic violence is everywhere; it doesn't start and stop with professional sports. It is in every corner of every neighborhood and it is deplorable.
That being said, it is time that the media and the public sees the other side of this story. It is time to see the tenderness I caught on my camera. The majority of players in the NFL are upstanding citizens in their communities, great partners, and loving parents. Love resides everywhere, and the NFL is certainly no exception. The embrace between Matt and his son was a vivid reminder of that fact.
He spoke of how the Artist chose the specific wood he uses from a forest in PA., then whittles, chisels, and sands the canoes until they become an object that propels he and others through the waters. Bill canoes every weekend in this vessel at least two miles, with the exception of a couple of months a year.
Soaking in his wisdom and feeling the art as I ran my hand down the canoe's belly, there was energy I couldn't deny. Thank you Bill for giving me this moment! #LivingInTheMoment
Check more of J.W. Swan’s vessels out at
http://blogs.houstonpress.com/rocks/classic_rock_corner/
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Check out Jim's website for more book signing tour dates. http://jimpeterik.com
Of the thousands of photographs I have taken of her I feel this one describes her in a still frame. Jeans with a simple white shirt, her sleeves pushed up, barefoot, sitting how she feels most comfortable. She was sitting on the floor in her home against her bedroom wall conversing with me, and I asked her to look up. (Click)
(below) I think the pictures below will speak for themselves, the compassion for her family, yet fun-loving feisty, spontaneous woman she is. Her flowered head band wasn't planned, one of her children put it on her head. I love and share her free spirt!
(below) Is the way the world see's her - (rarely seen still photography) behind the scenes footage from the dressing room on the set of Star Wars. Many hours goes into graphic design, Orli and I worked endless days choosing which ones to use and different graphic techniques. copyright 2014 Lynne Peters, all rights reserved. Orli Shoshan, Starwars films, Lucas films. used with permission. Learn more about her on her website http://www.orli-shoshan.com
As she walks in, she is applauded and photographed by many fans.
(below) In the make artists chairs, molding a mask to fit her face.
(below) Awaiting in her dressing room for her scenes to begin.
(below) Another quiet moment alone in her mind thinking about her script
(below) This profile shot (not even in full wardrobe) is the one that that inspired her famous graphic poster.
One of my favorite posters of her I had the privilege to work on.
(below) Various posters and scenes from her roles in Star Wars
(below) On the set...
(below) You know you've made it in when people are tattooing your image on their bodies... We giggle!
Most recent work with Orli. To see more of our recent work together visit her site http://www.orli-shoshan.com
But my favorite times shooting with her are when we are doing silly selfies!
To my Client, my dear friend, and integral piece of my life. To many more years of love and laughs! This one's for you! oxox, L.
]]>From my view, the answer is no. I am currently in New York City accompanying Jim Peterik as he releases his long-awaited autobiography, "Through the Eye of the Tiger". Most of us remember Peterik from his years with the band “Survivor,” but some may not know that he actually started his music career as a teenager, fronting the Ides of March. His story reflects many atypical aspects of this life that we never immediately assume and our eyes are open to another view – one where artistry of the soul creates relationships that last a life time.
While accompanying him the last few days, my lens definitely sees a rock ‘n’ roller on the surface. More deeply, however, I see a spirit filled with love and loyalty. We had a photo session last night, where I captured a man devoted to his family; married for over 40 years, whose only vices, as a blog states on his website, “seem to be the love of fast cars and vintage guitars.”
When you photograph people like this, you cannot help but absorb some of what is there. I went to bed feeling grounded somehow, by a man that many would see merely as a musician.
This morning we were eating breakfast together and talking about the interviews he had for his book.
We were discussing the recent death of his friend and band member, Jimi Jamison. I felt his great loss as he spoke and was reminded of the deep sadness Peterik and so many of us had after receiving the sudden news of his leaving this world. Suddenly, he handed me his phone and asked me to look at a video shot by a mutual friend, Greg Bizzaro, during a recent Ides of March tribute in Chicago.
I was brought to tears when I watched; hearing Peterik talk about Jamison saying, "he was my voice." This was followed by chills seeing and FEELING the emptiness in Peterik as he sang, "The Search Is Over," with film clips of their journey together as his backdrop.
Yes, it's rock 'n' roll ... but it's so very much more! I want to share this incredible moment with all of you. "The search is over - you were with me all the while ..."
Pre order your books on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Through-Eye-Tiger-Survivors-Founding/dp/1940363160
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To Robert and Linell, my condolences, my personal thank you, for the courage to share your story, the dedication, love, and endless hours of work put forth in this Foundation, to save the life of a child!
Unknown to me, while I was photographing the ceremony, they had the box sitting on the alter, and during the ceremony, after lighting the unity candle, they put their first memory in the box, the pieces of paper with their vows on them. I was crying behind the lens.
Today her parents stopped by my home and we talked and laughed for hours.
Chris and Correna I wish you all God's Blessings, love, and laughter, Thank you for trusting me with the most important day of your life. With Love, Lynne
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]]>Chicago is one of the most beautiful cities in the world!
Chicago’s first permanent resident was a trader named Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, a free black man apparently from Haiti, who came here in the late 1770s. In 1795, the U.S. government built Fort Dearborn at what is now the corner of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive (look for the bronze markers in the pavement). It was burned to the ground by Native Americans in 1812
With Independence day being about Freedom and paying tribute to our Great Nation. Our Nation has evolved with more freedom and liberties over the years. I find it appropriate to dedicate this picture Taken from Adler Planetarium in Chicago, overlooking Michigan Ave. to the first permanent resident of Chicago who was a FREE black man, Jean Baptiste Point du Sable. I wish I could see a picture of what the City looked like to him.
This one's for you Jean!
Goodnight World! L.
]]>When I stand before my God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have one single bit of talent left in me, and I could say, 'I used EVERYTHING you gave me'.
I will also leave you with one of my favorite still shots, not taken by myself, but by my brother, Greg. It was a warm October day and we surprised our Dad who lived in NE with a visit. We sat in white wicker chairs in the warm sun telling old stories and laughing until my dad became tired and nodded asleep sitting up. When I leaned my head on his, smiling in his easily elderly restful state. My brother stopped the most beautiful moment in time! The following day, my father had a stroke, and 5 days later, he now rests with my Mother.
Capturing REAL moments of life and love is what I will give you. From it's darkest moments to it's joyous light, Life is Beautiful!
Did I mention that out of 4 siblings, I'm my Dad's Favorite!!! :)
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