A real look at young family photography… and the magic of photoshop.
Holiday Mini Sessions are here!
Saturday, September 30: 8AM - 7PM Fall Mini Sessions by Christina Young Photography
Birthday's are a big deal in our house... we throw parties, we bake cakes, and we spoil. It's just how we operate. As a very important birthday to our family approaches, I've been searching for a way to celebrate, and the best way I could think of was to get behind the lens. I think she would approve, and would love that it would mean that one lucky family gets to make and capture some new memories for free this summer! So, in honor of the incredible Ashlee Rollins, who we miss every day in every way, as her birthday gift I'm offering one free Family Photoshoot this summer! The only rules are that the winners must be able to travel to Londonderry, NH, and that they either fill out the form below or that they are nominated by a friend or family member filling out the form for them, before Sunday, June 4! All entries will go to Ashlee's brother, who has graciously agreed to choose the winner, that will be announced on Ashlee's birthday, June 11.
In order to enter, please complete the form below:
All entries must be submitted by Sunday, June 4 at 12 PM ET. The winner will be announced on Sunday, June 11 on our Facebook Page.
2016 Holiday Mini Sessions
DUE TO RAIN- RESCHEDULED FOR OCTOBER 8 & 9! Same time slots and location.
Back by popular request- October Mini Sessions, just as the foliage is at it's peak! Join CYP at Mack's Apples in Londonderry for a 20 minute shoot. These sessions are quick, easy, and perfect for Holiday Cards! From the 20 minute shoot you'll receive a gallery of images to chose your top 5 for edit and digital download. Full print permission included. Simply fill out the form below if you'd like to reserve your spot today!
Calling all seniors! Do you want your senior photos to stand out, but don't want to go through the full session to get them? Take advantage of our mini-sessions to make sure you get that headshot that you want to be remembered by. For only $150, and a quick 20-minute shoot, you will receive a teaser and five images edited with a digital download and full print permission.
Enter here for a chance to win a free mini-shoot! Make sure to share the love and nominate your friends too! All entries must be submitted by September 30, 2016 at 5pm EDT.
As many of you know... we lost a dear friend this summer. To be truthful, we're still putting together the pieces, and will continue to do so, for a very long time. She was an intricate member of our family, a light that brightened any day, a very special aunt to our boys, a younger sister to my wife, and a best friend to us both. We were so lucky to know her, and just so grateful for everything she brought to our lives.
This year, the proceeds from the September Mini-Sessions will go to support the cause she believed in so strongly. As part of the #weARestrong team for the Jimmy Fund Walk on September 25, 2015, we'll walk with her friends and family, and donate a minimum of $1500 to the cause. Even if it cannot all be raised through these mini-sessions, we've committed to that amount in her memory.
You can read about our dear friend here. If you aren't able to do a mini-session, but would like to purchase a gift-certificate, with the proceeds to go in honor of Ashlee, please email me at christinayoungphotography@gmail.com, or you can make a donation straight to the team in her honor here.
This year's mini-sessions will be offered on Saturday, September 17, 2016 from 8am until noon, and then Sunday, September 18, 2016 from 8am until noon as well. They will be taken at Mack's Apples, across the street at the Willow Tree.
Each session will last 20 minutes, from which you will get two teasers, and a gallery of images to chose your 5 images to be edited for digital download. The session comes with full print-permission.
Book your session today by completing the form below.
In honor of Ashlee, I'd also like to offer one free mini-session to a family who deserves it. But not because I think they deserve it, because YOU think they deserve it. Although the purchase of your mini-session is not required to enter a family, a donation in her memory would be appreciated. No suggested amount, whatever you are willing to do is amazing. Nominate who you think deserves it at this form here, if you are not planning to purchase a mini-session.
The winning family will be required to travel to Londonderry, NH for the mini-session. Please make sure you keep that in mind when you make your nomination.
Couldn't get enough of this incredible wedding... hope you love the teasers as much as I did! Emily and Mike, we wish you all the happiness this life can bring you during your incredible next chapter! XO
Dear Ashlee,
My sweet, sweet girl. This will be one of the most difficult things I’ve ever had to write. But as you asked, for you I will. I will remain positive, I will focus on what you asked me to, I will make sure that these photos spread like wild fire and that this is how you will be remembered.
When you asked me to do this, you knew I would never say no to you. Your positivity and belief that these would merely be what got you through losing your hair (although you had one sexy bald head), and would remind you that you were a beautiful and happy girl no matter how hard it got, made it easy to agree.
When you arrived at the house, with your ten outfits (you know I’m not exaggerating), you shouldn’t have been surprised when I picked your original top two choices. Classy and sophisticated. Nothing too flashy, but elegant and full of glam. We wanted YOU to shine through the lens, not the clothes. And girlfriend, you rocked it.
It was just your average New Hampshire winter afternoon… but remember how when we trecked out in the snow in our hideous snow boots (that stayed out of the photos), how the sun came out with all its strength through the trees to lie it’s warmth on you. (Maybe your Nana saw you in your short sleeves and said, “Ashlee, put some clothes on- you’ll freeze out here.”)
As we moved our way around the yard, you made our background melt away into beautiful bokeh, and your smile was breathtaking. My heart skipped a beat when you looked at the shots from the back of my camera and whispered, “Awe, I am beautiful.” You were baby girl. Every minute of your life, you were beautiful.
My favorite moment of the shoot was when you turned to me, and said, “Ok, make me laugh.” I know you laughed when you saw my face as I came out from behind the camera, “make you laugh?” I asked you. You stood tall and still, got all serious on me, and said, “I want the photos to show me laughing. I want to be known as the girl who always had a smile on her face… who was always happy and laughing.”
So we went to work. We joked, we teased, we faked it a little bit, haha… But then, it happened organically. Then there was your smile, you laughed, I snapped, and we got it. This, my beautiful girl, this is how you will be remembered.
You will be remembered as the most positive person we know. No matter what would happen, you would always respond with a “glass half-full” answer, always focusing on what you can do in a situation - never what you couldn’t. Your energy was infectious. Yes, I will agree with you - however adorable it was, you did have quite the laugh! Haha… but it was your laugh, so we loved it.
You were an extremely talented and determined young woman. I know that recently you shared with Steph that the best day of your life was when you graduated from St. A’s. We were so proud of you. Some of our favorite moments with you were working on your resume, and hearing the interview updates as you navigated your career. Our many conversations of the challenges of working with different types of people, making choices in your career to better your life quality, while focusing on your career trajectory… we were so proud of the incredible woman you were becoming.
You were FUN. You were the definition of fun. You could make any tough day better. You always knew what to say to make us laugh or smile.
You were a fighter. You were determined that cancer would not get you. And until the very end, you never stopped fighting.
You were an amazing friend. Everyone would attest that you knew how to keep a secret, give sound advice, be an incredible listener, and always gave more than you took.
I can remember the day I met you. My wife (then girlfriend) mentioned this adorable girl at Sports Authority who had become her fast friend. I immediately got defensive, because she spoke of you with such adoration, that I slightly worried I may have some competition on my hands! :P But when I met you, I got it, because immediately I loved you too. Throughout the years, as our friendship quickly turned to chosen family, I was always grateful for what you brought to Steph’s life as her adopted little sister, and selfishly to my own.
Thank you for being such an important person in our lives. Thank you for being one of the boys' favorite people. Thank you for our time together the last few months, but especially for letting us have our time with you this weekend. Thank you for the extra kisses and love for our boys as we left you. You leave your magic with them, and I promise you they will always know about their Auntie Ashlee. I promise you they will grow up knowing Emma, and that we will make sure we take care of your soulmate, Stacy. I promise you, that we will make you proud by living this life the way you would want us to- by being silly… being honest… being kind.
Looking over these photos, the following song is the only way I could close out this post. We love you baby girl. We are so incredibly proud of the woman you became, and the way you refused to be anything other than the incredible you. Rest in peace sweetheart, and we will see you in our dreams.
SMILE
"Smile though your heart is aching
Smile even though it's breaking
When there are clouds in the sky, you'll get by
If you smile through your fear and sorrow
Smile and maybe tomorrow
You'll see the sun come shining through for you
Light up your face with gladness
Hide every trace of sadness
Although a tear may be ever so near
That's the time you must keep on trying
Smile, what's the use of crying?
You'll find that life is still worthwhile
If you just smile
That's the time you must keep on trying
Smile, what's the use of crying?
You'll find that life is still worthwhile
If you just smile" - Nat King Cole
This could easily be one of the longest blog posts I have ever posted! Simply because my beautiful friend, and fellow Regis sister, Kate, married an amazing man, Eric, on a beautiful day, with amazing friends and family surrounding them. At The Bedford Village Inn in Bedford, NH, the two tied the knot on May 23, 2015. The day was perfect, truly! The bridal party was way too much fun to work with, the weather stayed gorgeous, and the Bride and Groom were as stunning as could be. Thank you for your patience in my getting to post these, Kate and Eric! Please know that we were so honored to be a part of your day, and hope you can remember the incredible moments that took place for years to come. Decades of happiness to you both! XO
When I first met Melissa and Brian at their consult over a year ago, I liked them IMMEDIATELY. There was something tentative but charming about the way they spoke about their wedding. As the days got closer, they were so relaxed and easy going, and I couldn't wait for their special day! The fall themed wedding was stunning at this Derry wedding venue. From the super brave wedding party who toughed out the cold for formal portraits, to the FANTASTIC and I mean FANTASTIC wedding guests who took advantage of a phenomenal dj and never left the dance floor, second shooter Lori and I had a BLAST. Seriously an awesome way to end the streak of 2014 weddings.
Melissa and Brian, thank you for letting us be there that day. It was incredible to watch Brian's eager smile as Melissa took those steps toward the alter, the laughter and nods throughout the ceremony, and the hearts that melted as your friends and family watched your first dance as husband and wife. We wish you so much happiness in your years to come and hope these images help you remember the beginning along your incredible journey to come. All our love. XO
First, before I start- thank you Jenn and Andrew for your patience as you were the last summer wedding of a long stretch, and you've had to wait longer than any of my clients ever have to wait to view their photos! I hope that what comes next you will consider worth the wait!
Now, introducing Jenn & Andrew's wedding. I will admit, I have a serious spot in my heart for the Arria family, and all associated with it. So it was a distinct honor to do another wedding with them! It just makes me sad that now they are all married... alas, what a wonderful wedding it was. At The Smith Barn, on a beautiful day, the ceremony took place in the gardens, followed by an incredible reception in the barn. Right after the couple decided to have their first look, two of my favorite Arria ladies surprised this beautiful bride with a release of butterflies in memory of those who could not be with Jenn and Andrew on that day. It was breath taking- and one of the hardest things to photograph as all I wanted to do was watch in awe, and had to remember to stay behind my lens.
Jenn and Andrew, if the smiles seen on your wedding are any indication of the life you two will hold together, it is so beyond full of happiness and love, and we wish you all the laughter and joy it may bring you along the way. Thank you for letting us be with you for your special beginning. xo
What an amazing wedding this was! I can't describe how incredibly impressed I was with the way these two beautiful people, with the help of their families, truly made their day everything it turned out to be and more. From the stunning renovation to Kelly's parents' barn, to the hand-painted signs, the mason jar chandelier, and oh so much more! There was so much love worked into every inch and moment of this day. Kelly and Steve, I can't thank you enough for letting us be a part of your amazing wedding. We wish you so much happiness and joy for the future ahead. If the work you put into your wedding is an example of the work you will put into your life together, than the two of you can simply accomplish just about anything together! All our love. XO
This stunning wedding took place at The Saphire Estate in Sharon, MA. When we pulled up to the venue, we were speechless. And every detail that followed continue to simply compliment the perfect day.
Weddings like this one, for favorite Regis alumni, have become this added bonus for me. I absolutely LOVE working with friends from our days at Regiville, and Renee was no exception. She's such an awesome person- someone who's so easy going, so friendly, and so fun! I will admit, I had not had the pleasure of meeting Dave until this amazing day- pretty sure I introduced myself during formals, actually- haha. But oh, is he awesome. When I watched Renee walk down the isle, and his expression went from excitement, to pride, to joy- to such happiness he could have cried- I knew he was a good guy. I mean, Renee made an incredibly stunning bridge - but the way he looked at her- it was out of that genuine place where she literally took his breath away.
I hope you enjoy the snapshots from this fantastic day, and Renee & Dave, we can't thank you enough for letting us be a part of it! We wish you nothing but contagious laughter, spontaneous date nights, strong shoulders to bear any pain or sadness, fingers that interlock for both the hard moments but the intimate and special ones, and above all- love. Lots, and lots of love! XO
Do you believe in fate? Well, if you've read any of the "About Me" section on my website, you'd bet money that I do. And it's true. I do. Why do I believe in fate, you ask? Well, because in this life, I've had too many reason's not to. And this post, this is about one of my most recent. So put on your romantic hats, snuggle up with a warm blanket, and read on...
I am one of those people who, if a year ago you told me I'd be where I am today because of a chance seating on a flight home from San Francisco - I wouldn't say "no way", but would probably smile back at you with a smart reply like, "cool", or even, "bring it on." On my way home from an alumni trip in San Francisco, exhausted from visiting with so many people for a week, only wanting to plug my headphones in, finish whatever hunger games book I was into, and maybe even sleep! As the flight began to fill, and the seat beside me stayed empty, I thought - hey, may be a comfy flight! But then, haha, fate stepped in. Laurie sat down beside me, asking if it was alright she took the seat- to which, I of course said, not a problem, and took out my headphones to be polite. (I know Laurie is laughing to herself as she reads this, because I'm smiling writing it.) What I thought was being polite, turned into a multiple hour long conversation/confessional/start to an awesome friendship. We talked about EVERYTHING. But most importantly, and this I remember clear as day, how she was ready for the real kind of love, and wasn't willing to settle.
We stayed in touch after the flight, I introduced her to some friends, and I just remember wishing she could meet someone because I thought she was so awesome. Well, as fate would have it, a spontaneous trip to Ptown by herself, would allow fate to bring Ali into her life. I remember getting the text after that weekend she was down the cape saying, "hey, I met someone..." and I squealed for her. Who knew it would turn into the incredible story below.
I'm so thankful to have been part of their incredible wedding weekend, especially because my wife and I stayed at the same Inn the ladies did, allowing us extra time together over drinks, and breakfast. These two women are incredible, and the joy and love that happened that weekend in Maine scream from these photos, so I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.
Wouldn't you know it? Next week, I start as one of Laurie's full-time employees... so next time fate starts screaming you in the face- take my advice. Just smile and say, "bring it on", because only great things will come.
Laurie & Ali, all my love. xo
Since today is Baby O.'s mom's birthday, I thought what better gift then to get Baby O's blog up! This precious newborn was just stunning! Oh my did her gorgeous lashes and perfect porcelain skin make me swoon! This beautiful girl went right to sleep, and was pretty much up for anything! Happy Birthday to Baby O's mom! I hope your next year is full of incredible first moments for your family as Baby O. grows through so many milestones! Introducing Baby O....
This gorgeous newborn was just over two weeks old when we took her photos. Typically we try to meet little ones like Baby R. before the two week point, but boy was she adorable! Once she fell asleep she was so easy to work with. And her mom had all of these awesome props, as you will see below! I hope you enjoy her awesome session! Can't wait to watch her grow up into a beautiful young girl! Congrats Matt & Jess, she was perfect!
Since these two love birds will be tying the knot this weekend, I thought it was about time to post their engagement photos!
Kelly and Steve are simply adorable. I love everything about the way they interact together - especially how they look at each other and how they laugh together. Like simply sweet and totally on the same page.
The venue for this shoot was at a family's house where the actual wedding will take place- and I can't even express how excited I am for Saturday's wedding! It has this amazing rustic feel, which is why Kelly asked for a few photos in the sepia tones you will see below.
Enjoy the engagement photos because their wedding is going to blow you away!
And a special photo of Kelly's favorite cat... xo
Special thanks for her willingness to be featured about goes to the gorgeous Sarah Scoville Menard. xo
The All About That Bass: Redefining Beauty Project
This year has been pretty amazing – and it’s not even over yet. Sometimes I have to pinch myself when I look at how crazy fast photography became such a defining role in my life. But when I look back at starting this side-business two years ago, I remember why I started it, which got me to thinking. As this year has been so amazing, I want to find a way to give back – but in a way that truly represents why I do the work I do. The reason why I focus behind a camera, trying to freeze real life in a way that can be captured in its purest form forever, is because I learned the sad way that our memories aren’t always remembered as long as we think they will be.
Ten years ago, one of my favorite people on this earth was taken away to be among the angels. When I first met my cousin Rachael, it wasn’t in the conventional sense that cousins meet – as Rae was a gift from my Uncle Fran’s marriage to my pretty spectacular aunt Patti (Rae’s mom). She and I met when we were teenagers, and as I came from a large Italian family where the girl cousins were out numbered by boy cousins in a 1:4 ratio, it was not only refreshing, but amazing to get another girl in the group who was my age! Rachael and I hit it off right away and were pretty much inseparable at family gatherings. We’d stay at each other’s houses for long weekends, have long marathon movie days, walks and talks like lifelong friends – and when it mattered most, she was simply there. I can remember the first Thanksgiving after my parents got divorced, I didn’t want to be around anyone. As soon as we made it through dinner, she told her mom she had to drop something at a friend’s house, and snuck me out. She never made me talk about it, but instead distracted me the best she knew how, driving around until I was ready to go back and face the crowd. Now… at this time – I don’t even think Myspace was big yet, and we definitely hadn’t heard of Facebook, which means, a “selfie” was a far-off dream. When Rachael passed away from a peanut allergy on October 29, 2004 – I was devastated. It didn’t take long to realize that she and I hadn’t taken any photos together. In fact, I didn’t even have any of just her. This was mind-blowing to me. How could someone who was so important to me, had meant so much to my life, be gone, and yet, I barely had anything to remember her by?
One of my favorite photos of my cousin Rachael, stolen (with love) from my Aunt Patti's facebook page, that's also displayed in my living room. Wasn't she beautiful?
I started this company in the hopes that I could help people capture their memories forever, so that they can cherish the moments without fear of losing them like I felt I did. I’d give anything to have a photo of Rachael and myself from when we were younger. Sure, I could probably Photoshop one – I am that good (wink wink), but it’s not the same thing.
Rae had always teased – calling me her beautiful Italian princess. You see, Rachael was beautiful – stunning in my eyes. She was this tall, freckled-faced, pale skinned, exotic looking girl, who had dreadlocks! Something I never could have pulled off in a million years – but it was a look that was unique for her. I think she always felt like she stood out in our Italian crew of cousins – but it is my hope and belief that she knew we considered her as not only part of our group, but just as much an “Aprea” as any of us. So in honor of Rae, on this 10-year anniversary, I wanted to start a project that could represent her in a way she would be proud.
One of my favorite artists, Colbie Caillat, recently put out a video for her new single “Try”. That video is part of the inspiration behind this project. (If you haven’t seen it yet, please check it out here - it’s amazing.) I just love how she shows the beauty behind the makeup and the extra efforts women go through to feel beautiful every day.
The other inspiration, hence the title, is Meghan Trainor’s new song: “All About That Bass”. I seriously can’t get enough of it, and even though it’s a little trendy- I love that it emphasizes to all women out there “every inch of you is perfect from the bottom to the top.” So between wanting to honor Rae, give back to the amazing client base who has helped my business grow so quickly over the last two years, and incorporating the concept that the every woman is beautiful no matter their age, size, skin tone, style, height, etc., I proudly introduce to you the “All About That Bass Project.”
THE ALL ABOUT THAT BASS: REDEFINING BEAUTY PROJECT
What I’d like to do is work with five women, all different ages, and showcase why they are beautiful for one day. I’ll be working with incredible vendors to assist in pampering each woman that morning before their photo-shoot that afternoon. Each participant will receive a cd with five edited high resolution images for their keeping, as well as some other goodies.
Participants can nominate themselves, or be nominated by someone else, and fall into one of the following categories. (One woman will be chosen from each category.)
5 – 15 Years Old
16 - 21 Years Old
22 – 34 Years Old
35 – 49 Years Old
50+ Years Old
In order to enter, share this blog on facebook, leave a comment that you've entered, and then please email christinayoungphotography@gmail.com with the following information:
Your Name:
Your Email and Phone Number:
Name of Your Nomination:
Age group nomination is in:
Why you are nominating that woman?
What is beautiful about her that you think this opportunity could capture?
The contest will be open until September 30. At which time we will take a week to review the nominations and make our choices. The winners will be announced by Friday, October 3, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. The participants are required to be present in Bedford, NH on Sunday, October 19, from 9am to 4pm.
If you are interested in participating as a vendor, please email christinayoungphotography@gmail.com, as I'd be happy to work with you!
Thank you for reading, and please, feel free to share on facebook even if you aren't nominating anyone. Perhaps someone who hasn't heard of the project yet will be interested!
Rae, if you're watching - I hope you are smiling, and proud...
All my love. XO