Best Photos of 2017

How has another year already gone by? This year was huge for me! I learned so much about myself and grew in ways that were inconceivable to 2016 Virginia. My work has transformed into a style that I am so proud of. It has been an evolution of finding my voice as a photographer. I've been so blessed to work in commercial projects, be printed, and see my work on the cover of a magazine. I've photographed weddings, new babies, love, life, and even travelled overseas to Ireland. This year has been a year of magical growth and I've loved every minute of it! I've decided to compile a list of my own personal favorite shots of 2017 and hope you enjoy them!

Sweet Amelia was the perfect Elsa for this fun shoot. I found so much joy in doing a little magic for myself this year. 

I had the pleasure of photographing some of our best friends as they became husband and wife. It was so beautiful and such an amazing honor to document Brian and Jessica's love.

My sweet girl turned 5 this year. She is so smart and kind. She's the one who brought the magic of motherhood to my life. It is the greatest honor to see her grow into the beautiful person she is becoming. 

This year I tried something a little different and offered specialized unicorn sessions with the help of Kim and Artie from CTRP. I donated $500 from these awesome sessions to the program. Seeing the kiddos delight as Artie transformed into a unicorn was so worth it and special. Can't wait to offer them again in 2018. 

Gorgeous Whitney and baby Addison were on the top of my list for favorites this year. Mother nature cooperated in ways neither of us could have even dreamed of. Little Addison is extremely blessed to be born into so much love. 

Ali was like something out of a dream. Motherhood looks so joyous and serene on her. This shot was taken the day of the eclipse and the sky was so brilliant on Wrightsville Beach. 

The Krueger family and I boated out to Mason Inlet on what looked like a dreary cold winter afternoon. We waited for the sun to show up and I am so glad we did. 

I believe in the quiet moments between shots. Oh, how I believe in them. There is so much magic in letting children explore, interact, and live unposed.

I love capturing families in their special spots. The Bardsley family loves Lea Island. It's their happy place. So there was no question that we should boat out on location there. The birds just were the icing on this shot.

Dancing feet in the sand and surf. Father daughter moments are some of my favorites. 

Ashley and Talladega are a once in a lifetime pair. When I shot this I knew I wanted it to look like an oil painting. It's so classically beautiful and timelessly stylish, just like the two of them. Adore working with them each year! 

Oh, Ireland. How my heart yearns for you every time I see this image. Ireland taught me to be brave, to trust myself, to allow painful growth in order to move beyond the limitations of my anxiety and depression. I met some of my best friends and most talented photographers. I stood on my own two feet, nervous in my craft, and learned I could do it. One of these days I will blog the rest of my images and share my adventure with you. 

Getting dark and moody in the mists of Ireland with Savannah Kate Morgan and her husband Wayland for the House of Flynn workshop. I was given the creative space to be myself, the safety of being vulnerable with my questions, and encouragement to push out of my shell. The experience of this workshop is so beyond words. Adventure and education and finding my tribe of women. If you ever get the chance, go! 

Savannah in a Finfolk tail in the lagoon of Ross Castle. How on earth was this not a dream? 

Our own slice of heaven, the boat my husband built with this own two hands that launches every adventure and wonderful family memory. 

Jacquelyn and Karl had such a beautiful and intimate elopement in Columbia, SC. Bearing witness to their love was an incredible honor. 

My best friend and her gorgeous family downtown Wilmington. A dreary day but a cool backdrop. I love the monochromatic colors here. 

Beautiful Belle Amie. These glamour shots will always be some of my favorites, but this image is one of my best. 

So, here's to 2018 in all it's opportunity and glorious newness. May it bring you prosperity, adventure, and so much love.