almondleafstudios.com bio picture

Welcome to the Almond Leaf Blog!

I (Elizabeth) am a photographer who loves to see people relax, laugh and enjoy life. I thoroughly enjoy the simple delights of life, and love having the opportunity to capture them through my lens.

I see my camera as a means to reveal the beauty I see in people, objects, and Light that usually go unnoticed. While I adore children, weddings, and families enjoying life together, the driving force behind Almond Leaf Studios is a deep desire to see that same freedom and joy realized in the lives of women and children suffering injustice throughout the world. Photographing your family, your engagement, or your wedding day directly contributes to my ability to help in the fight against human trafficking and other social injustices throughout the world. 

In this blog you'll find professional posts about what we're doing at Almond Leaf Studios, silly details about my quirky little life, and hopefully a funny story or two that'll put a smile on your face. Check back regularly for the latest happenings, and don't forget to leave a comment! 

2011 Weddings {contest}

Let the voting begin! Here’s a recap of our 2011 weddings, which are all up for vote. Be sure to check out the full wedding posts (links attached) for any you’re considering voting for. Each session is up to win an 11×14 gallery wrap of the image of their choice.

To vote, leave your comment on this blog post with your selection. One vote per person, but you are welcome to spread the word and have friends and family vote for your favorites! Voting ends Monday, February 6th, at midnight.

 

 

 

Meigan and Jeff’s classy, bold Charlotte, NC wedding:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

 

Chad and Jenn’s destination wedding in Mexico:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Mexico, Asheville, Chicago, NYC

Enya and Darik’s lovely Castle Ladyhawke wedding in the NC mountains:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

Nate and Kate’s Rock Quarry, white sand beach wedding in Mooresville, NC:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

Lisa Dawn and Dominick’s crazy, creative DIY wedding at Vanlandingham Estates:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

Chris and Jill’s Southern, military-inspired wedding:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

Miriam and William’s local, laid back wedding:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

Emily and Matt’s Symmes Chapel wedding in the NC mountains:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

Lauren and Sam’s southern, private barn wedding:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

Jason and Kristen’s Biltmore wedding in Asheville, NC:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

David and Rachel’s stunning Asheville, NC wedding:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

Brigette and Andrew’s Shelby, NC wedding:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

Matthew and Lauren’s stylish, elegant Raleigh, NC wedding:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

Ashley and Spencer’s creative DIY wedding in SC:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

Abbey and Steve’s Waxhaw, NC family farm reception:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

David and Lacey’s lakeside ceremony:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

Allison and AJ’s classy Orangeburg, SC wedding:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

Erin and Burke’s Old Salem, NC wedding:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

Phil and Courtney’s Dairy Barn wedding:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC.

Wes and Lisa’s Peninsula Yacht Club wedding:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, NYC

Contest winner

Congratulations to the adorable Baby Boone who took the win by just a handful of votes!

It’s not difficult to see why, with those chubby cheeks, bright blue eyes, and two tiny teeth poking through that big huge smile of his. To see a little bigger glimpse into his life, check out his full shoot (and be ready for his chubby little cheeks in a Santa suit that will rock your world!)

NC child photographer.NC child photographer

2011 portraits {contest}

It’s that time again! Here’s a recap of our 2011 portrait sessions, which are all up for vote. Be sure to check out the full session (links attached) for any you’re considering voting for. Each session is up to win an 11×14 gallery wrap of the image of their choice.

To vote, leave your comment on this blog post with your selection. One vote per person, but you are welcome to spread the word and have friends and family vote for your favorites! Voting ends Thursday, February 2nd, at midnight.

Note: wedding contest coming soon.

 

 

Andrew Daniel:

Charlotte infant photographer

 

Sasha and Larry‘s stylish engagement session: 
Charlotte, NC fine art wedding lifestyle photographer

 

The adorable Oosterman family:

 

Philip Christopher:

Charlotte, NC fine art family lifestyle photographer

Darik & Enya‘s engagement:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.

Lindsay & Mackenzie:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.

 

Max:

Charlotte, NC fine art family lifestyle photographer

Fabio & Annina‘s maternity shoot in Switzerland:

Fine art destination wedding and lifestyle photography in Switzerland.

Precious little Raleigh Grace:

Miriam & William‘s engagement session:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago

Sweet little Reid’s family shoot:

Charlotte, NC fine art family lifestyle photographer

Newborn Juliana and her big brothers:

Charlotte, NC fine art family lifestyle photographer

Nate & Kate‘s wine-lovin’ engagement session:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, ChicagoChris & Jill‘s Waxhaw engagement session:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago

Jenn, Chris and Kayna‘s family session:

 

Levi’s infant shoot in Durham, NC:

Luke & Emily’s engagement session:

 

The Smith family:

The adorable Abbey and Steve’s engagement session:

Charlotte, NC fine art family lifestyle photographer

The fun-loving Hicks family:

Fine art wedding lifestyle photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.

Laura & Gaetano‘s Philadelphia engagement:

Kristen & Jason‘s New York City engagement session:

NYC fine art wedding photographer

 

The giggles of Addison:

Charlotte, NC fine art family lifestyle photographer

Jamie and Dan’s creative southern-inspired session:

Fine art wedding lifestyle photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.

The model-esque baby Boone:

Fine art wedding lifestyle photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.

Pilar & Rob‘s engagement session:

The Dudley family:

Fine art destination wedding and lifestyle photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago

Ryan & Cristina‘s Zurich, Switzerland session:

Jeff & Meigan‘s Charlotte engagement:

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.

 

Jeff & Meigan {wedding} – Charlotte, NC

Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.

Ceremony venue: Dilworth United Methodist

Reception venue: Myers Park Country Club

Dress: Nicole Miller, J Majors

Shoes: Manolo Blahnik, TOMS

Bridesmaids dresses: Rachel Pally

DJ: Split Second Sound

Cake: Cheesecake, etc.

Flowers: The Blossom Shop

DIY items: All decorations and bridesmaids bouquets

Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.Charlotte, NC fine art wedding photography.

Meigan {bridal} – Charlotte, NC

Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, NC.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, NC.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, NC.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, NC.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, NC.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, NC.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, NC.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, NC.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, NC.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, NC.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, NC.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, NC.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, NC.

Jenn & Chad {Destination Wedding} – Cancun, Mexico

Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.

Here are a few favorites from the amazing time we had with Jenn and Chad for their gorgeous destination wedding in Cancun, Mexico. April and I had the honor of spending the week with Jenn, Chad, and their closest friends and family at the gorgeous, amazing El Dorado Maroma where we were spoiled with so much beauty, fun, delicious food and tasty beverages.

Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.Fine art destination wedding photography in Cancun, Mexico.

Jamie & Dan {J&J Photography} – Dunn, NC

Meet the lovely team of J&J Photography, based in Dunn, NC. Jamie and Dan were looking for some updated images of the two of them for their website and for their home, and I was honored to capture this stage of their lives together. Be sure to check out their site, see their wonderful work, and read a bit of their story! Don’t forget to leave them some love, too.

Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.

Jamie dreamt up all the fabulous details of this shoot. She wanted to capture who they were with their southern soul and creative taste. From sweet tea to homemade apple butter from grandma’s apple tree to biscuits and mason jars, she had it covered.

Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.Fine art wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago, Indianapolis.

Enya & Darik {wedding} – Castle Ladyhawke, NC

Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.

Enya and Darik were married this Fall at one of the loveliest hidden treasures in the mountains of NC – Castle Ladyhawke, a re-created Scottish border castle filled with European furniture personally collected by the former owner. Every corner of the castle is filled with elegance and style.

We couldn’t have been more delighted to take a trip to the NC mountains for this Fall wedding.

Congrats, Enya and Darik. Your wedding was absolutely gorgeous and we were delighted to be a part.

Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.

Enya’s mom is a talented hair stylist and did a fabulous job on Enya’s hair, along with all the bridesmaids.

Fine art destination wedding in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.

So sweet and tender.

Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.

The ceremony was cozy and intimate.

Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.

Rustic, gorgeous details everywhere.
Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.

They brought their entire collection of beer steins that have been in the family for years and years, and invited guests to choose one to use for the evening.

Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.Fine art destination wedding photography in Asheville, Chicago, Charlotte, NC.

Pilar & Rob {engagement} – Charlotte, NC

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.

Meet Pilar and Rob, and their two adorable pups. We can’t wait for their wedding this Spring!

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Chicago, Asheville.

Nate & Kate {wedding} – Rock Quarry at Carrigan Farms, NC

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.

Being in the wedding industry, my life is often surrounded by the celebration of love between two people, and I delight in the opportunity to rejoice with two individuals deeply in love, making the choice to pursue a life together. Rarely, though, do I get to attend or be a part of the weddings of my friends and join in the celebration with them (I often have a wedding already booked.) Nate has been a very good friend of mine over the last few years and I can’t say how excited I was to see him and Kate falling in love.

I was honored to even know that the engagement was coming, and to get a play by play of how Nate hoped for the day to go. Kate obviously said yes, and when they decided on a date that I had available, we began dialoguing about options that would allow me to be able to capture their big day but also get to enjoy the reception as a friend and guest.

A big, huge thanks to my talented friend, Jenna, of Red, White, and Green Photography who teamed up with me for the day and allowed me to find the perfect balance, allowing her to take over once the reception started.

I can’t say enough about this happy couple. Take a peek into the beauty and fun of their wedding day, which was held at the Rock Quarry in Mooresville at Carrigan Farms.

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.

There were so many adorable kids running around the whole day that made the day so much fun.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.

… And so many fun, crazy friends! Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.

Thanks to the talented, hilarious, fun-loving Rodney (above, right) of Rodney Scot Photography for grabbing my camera and snapping these next few of me! There were so many talented photographer friends and this wedding, and I can’t thank Rodney and others enough for helping me to feel comfortable enough to relax during the reception and know that they were grabbing amazing shots. It was a treat to get to enjoy some time with friends at a wedding for once! Thanks, Rodney, for making that possible.

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.

Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.Fine art destination wedding photography in Charlotte, Asheville, Chicago.