Jon D. Bowman Photography

THE OLD HOME PLACE

2010-08-27T06:56:00.000-07:00

Jamie's mom Bina grew up near Boone in the community of Tripplet. In other words: "back in the holler". The old home place was sold so we took one last trip to visit. Bina's sister Merrill came in from Arizona and it was a reunion of sorts. It is always sad when you say goodbye to the place you grew up in.

Merrill and Bina, sisters reunited.

The old home place.

Jamie's dad Earl.

Jon D. Bowman Photography

CLOGGING IN MAGGIE VALLEY

2010-05-19T11:47:00.000-07:00

Here are some shots from a clogging competition I covered for Smoky Mountain News. The Stompin Ground in Maggie Valley holds several of these each year. I really enjoy this type of documentary shooting. Everyone is in their element and not paying much attention to me.

Jon D. Bowman Photography

CONGRATULATIONS TEAM BEBO!

2010-05-19T11:19:00.001-07:00

A belated congratulations to team BeBo for taking second place in the relay division at the Lake Junaluska Duathlon on April 17th! Michael Beadle did the run and I did the bike leg. Thanks again Michael!

Team spirit?

Michael starting out strong.

The transition.

Photos by Jamie Cogdill

AFRICAN LILY

2010-05-11T10:12:00.001-07:00

Jamie's mom was so excited to see her neighbors African Lily bloom that I just had to go over and photograph it for her. It really is a very cool flower.

Jon D. Bowman Photography

OPENING DAY OF TROUT SEASON IN CHEROKEE

2010-04-07T11:09:00.001-07:00

The good folks over at Smoky Mountain News asked me to cover opening morning of trout season in Cherokee. There are a string of ponds over there next to the KOA campground that are heavily stocked prior to opening day. I have never seen so many stringers full of fish! It is shoulder to shoulder but everyone is having a good time and taking home dinner. I also did some shooting on the trophy trout section of Ravens Fork where a 20+ inch trout seems to be the norm!

All images Jon D. Bowman Photography

SPECIAL MENTION AT APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION

2010-03-31T06:11:00.000-07:00

OK, this is the last time I mention this photograph. Jamie and I spent the weekend in Boone and attended the photographers reception for the 7th Annual Appalachian Mountain Photography Competition held at the Turchin Center For The Visual Arts. My photograph "Late September, Graveyard Fields" received a "Special Mention" award! After the reception we attended the Banff Mountain Film Festival which featured some outstanding short films. I want to thank everyone who took time to vote for my image in the peoples choice category and also Smoky Mountain News for all their support.

Late September, Graveyard Fields

Jon D. Bowman

CRAZY EYED GOAT

2010-03-24T06:08:00.000-07:00

Here is part two of my "Crazy Eyed" series. You may remember the crazy eyed rooster i did last year. I had the rooster hanging in The Sweet Onion Restaurant in Waynesville and someone purchased it so I have replaced it with the goat. The waitresses say it scares them?

Crazy Eyed Goat

Oil On Canvas, Jon D. Bowma n

ELK AT DAWN

2010-03-23T06:31:00.001-07:00

The image "Elk At Dawn, Cataloochee Valley, Smoky Mountain National Park" is now available at Earth Works Gallery in downtown Waynesville and at www.jondbowman.net

Elk At Dawn

Jon D. Bowman

THANK YOU LAKE JUNALUSKA!

2010-03-22T08:59:00.000-07:00

I want to thank Lake Junaluska and special events coordinator Rebecca Dean for including several of my photographs in The Mountaineer Wedding Guide that came out last week. I always enjoy shooting at the lake and appreciate the exposure.

Lake Junaluska Images

Jon D. Bowman

FINALLY!

2010-03-20T06:18:00.000-07:00

Need I say more?

Crocus

Jon D. Bowman

I NEED VOTES!

2010-03-19T06:11:00.000-07:00

Help me win the peoples choice award in the Appalachian Mountain Photography Competition by logging on and voting for Late September, Graveyard Fields.

Voting ends Friday, March 26th.

Thanks!

You can vote here:

http://pca.appmtnphotocomp.org/

Late September, Graveyard Fields

Jon D. Bowman

NEW LANDSCAPE PRINT

2010-02-26T06:29:00.000-08:00

This is the view from Melissa and John's wedding ceremony. They were married in June of 2008 on Purchase Knob in Smoky Mountain National Park. Melissa asked me to blow this image up to hang over their mantle. It came out so well I am going to make it available on my fine art site, www.jondbowman.net and at Earthworks Gallery in downtown Waynesville.

Jon D. Bowman Photography

VALENTINES DAY EXCURSION, BY JAMIE COGDILL

2010-02-22T08:47:00.000-08:00

Jamie and I went for a little drive in the country on Valentines Day. We took the Montero up route 215 to the Parkway. Saw lots of cool snow and ice and even helped a guy who had his truck stuck.

All photography except this first one by Jamie Cogdill.

Blue Ice.

Headwaters of the Pigeon River.

We tried helping Athena's master get his truck unstuck.

The stare down.

MUSEUM OF NORTH CAROLINA HANDICRAFTS

2010-02-19T07:35:00.000-08:00

I like this shot Jamie took of the Shelton House. The official North Carolina Museum Of Handicrafts. Here is the description: The Shelton House was built in 1875 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum features comprehensive exhibits of 19th Century crafts and furniture. Artists who have participated in the North Carolina State Fair’s Village of Yesterday have a selection of crafts displayed. There is also a fine collection of Native American artifacts. The museum collection includes hand-woven coverlets, quilts, sculptured porcelain, dulcimers and masterpieces of pottery work. It's only a few blocks from our house in Waynesville. Well worth the trip if you are in the area.

Photography by Jamie Cogdill

ICE BIKING WAYNESVILLE

2010-02-16T11:11:00.001-08:00

Being an avid cyclist can be hard in the winter. The best way to combat bad weather is to just modify your riding. I have an ice bike I break out when conditions are right. I enjoy the strange looks I get from people. Sometimes it's hard to get out the door but after the ride I'm always glad I went.

Followed by the Police. Photo by Jamie.

The cross at Lake Junaluska.

NEW OIL PAINTING

2010-02-11T11:50:00.001-08:00

I'm pretty busy Spring through Fall so I like to do some painting during the winter. I just finished this one and will be posting more as I create them.

"Rogers Farm" Oil on Canvas by Jon D. Bowman

WISH ME LUCK!

2010-02-09T11:27:00.000-08:00

The image "Late September, Graveyard Fields" has been selected for exhibition in the 7th Annual Appalachian Mountain Photography Competition in the landscape catagory. It was chosen out of over 1,100 entries! I will be sending a framed print up to Boone for exhibition at the Turchin Center For The Visual Arts. The show runs from March 5th-June 5th. Awards will be given out March 27th so wish me luck. Along with the Turchin Center this competition is presented by ASU Outdoor Programs and the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation.

Late September, Graveyard Fields

Jon D. Bowman

WEDDING FESTIVAL

2010-01-26T06:59:00.000-08:00

I'd like to thank all the brides that stopped by Jon D. Bowman Photography at the Wedding Festival in Asheville. The turnout was great and we met lots of nice couples. I'd also like to thank all the people who help put on the Wedding Festival. Well done!

Jamie manning the booth.

KRISTE & JASON

2010-01-26T06:17:00.000-08:00

Kriste & Jason live in Michigan but have family in Haywood County. They chose to come south to tie the knot. The ceremony was held at the very quaint Fines Creek Methodist Church. I was told it was the first time a Limo was ever parked in front of the church. We took the limo back to The Gateway Club in downtown Waynesville for the reception. A great day spent with great people. Thank you again Kriste & Jason for letting me be a part of it!

All images copyright Jon D. Bowman Photography

SNOW STORM OF THE DECADE HITS WAYNESVILLE!

2010-01-26T05:45:00.000-08:00

December 18th., 2009 will go down as the biggest snow event of the decade in Waynesville, NC. We received 14 inches downtown. Lots of lost work but also lots of fun. I wouldn't have changed a thing.

All photos by Jamie Cogdill.

Mayor Foys' residence.

Poor Rudolph.

Police parking lot.

Downtown Waynesville.

CRYSTAL & ROBERT

2010-01-25T11:29:00.000-08:00

I really enjoyed shooting Crystal & Robert's wedding. The ceremony was held in the Memorial Chapel at Lake Junaluska with the reception at Maggie Valley Club. They were very relaxed and down to earth and so were their family and friends. I wish you both a long and happy life together!

All images copyright Jon D. Bowman Photography

CHARLESTON IN DECEMBER

2010-01-25T10:33:00.001-08:00

Jamie & I spent a long weekend in Charleston this past December. It is without a doubt one of our favorite cities to hang out in. We stayed at the beautiful Church Street Inn at the cornet of Church & Market downtown. We had great food, great walks around town and to much fun!

All images copyright Jon D. Bowman Photography

KRISTE & JASON ENGAGEMENT SHOOT

2010-01-22T09:19:00.001-08:00

We did Kriste & Jason's engagement shoot at her parents home in the Fines Creek area of Haywood County. Fairly remote and very beautiful with lots of great backgrounds. Despite being pretty chilly we had fun exploring the property.

All images copyright Jon D. Bowman Photography

MY LEGS ARE ON A KODAK BOX!

2010-01-22T08:53:00.000-08:00

My old college roommate Jim Forward owns an advertising agency in Rochester, NY called Forward Branding. One of his clients is Kodak. They needed a photograph of a mountain biker riding through mud with a big splash for a new waterproof sport camera they are coming out with. Jim knows I'm an avid mountain biker so he asked me to shoot it. I created a "set" in Jamie's parents back yard and had my friend Jim be the model. Turns out the lighting wasn't quite right so they asked me to re shoot it. Jim wasn't available so I did the riding and Jamie did the shooting! This time it flew. Here are the results:

The final design.

Shots of me by Jamie. My favorite second shooter!

The original shoot using Jim.

LIBERTY & CHRIS, A HALLOWEEN WEDDING

2010-01-20T07:37:00.001-08:00

Liberty & Chris were married on Halloween. I shot Liberty getting ready at The Old Stone Inn near downtown Waynesville. From there we took a limo to Lake Junaluska for a traditional wedding at the Memorial Chapel. Another limo ride took us back to The Gateway Club in Waynesville. The reception is where they decided to use lots of cool halloween accents. I did lots of long exposures to let the ambient light create a very warm halloween feel. It was a great day.

Thanks again Liberty & Chris!

All images copyright Jon D. Bowman Photography

4TH PLACE AT THE CHURCH STREET ARTS FESTIVAL!

2010-01-20T07:28:00.001-08:00

The image "Fallen Leaves" helped me take 4th place at the Church Street Art Show in downtown Waynesville, NC.

I GOT THE COVER OF SMOKY MOUNTAIN LIVING MAGAZINE!

2010-01-20T07:16:00.000-08:00

My good friends at Smoky Mountain Living Magazine asked me to submit some images for a four page spread in the fall 2009 edition. They ended up using one for the cover! The poetry accompanying the photos was written by the very talented Michael Beadle.

"Late September, Graveyard Fields, NC"

Inside spread photo essay.

OUR 8TH ANNIVERSARY!

2010-01-20T06:55:00.000-08:00

Jamie and I celebrated our 8th anniversary on September 8th.

Jamie's beautiful engagement ring. (Picked out by her of course!)

I love you.

JAMIE

2010-01-20T06:52:00.001-08:00

I was doing a few tests with my Nikon last fall and I was using Jamie as my test subject. I like this shot.

IMAGES USED FOR WAYNESVILLE AD!

2010-01-19T08:45:00.000-08:00

In December 2008 I roamed the Waynesville Christmas parade with my camera and got lots of cool shots. The Downtown Waynesville Association ended up using some of those images for an ad in The Laurel of Asheville magazine.

CATCHING UP!

2010-01-18T12:03:00.000-08:00

I'll be catching up on all my missed blogging this week. But I wanted to start by posting the Christmas card Jamie and I created. We design a custom card every year featuring ourselves in the shot. This one generated lots of comments and is going to be hard to top next year. We actually used the suits as our Halloween costumes. We had a blast doing it (well, Jamie did anyway!).

"Relax, let the elves do the work"

CRYSTAL BRIDAL SHOOT

2009-10-28T10:33:00.000-07:00

Crystal was absolutely gorgeous for her bridal shoot, which made my job easy! We hit several spots around Lake Junaluska and got some pretty dramatic images. Thanks Crystal! See you in November.

A ROARIN' MYSTERY

2009-10-28T10:11:00.001-07:00

I had a blast photographing the "A Roarin' Mystery" fundraiser for The Health Adventure. The mystery dinner theater was set in the 1920's and most of the attendees dressed for the occasion.

The Health Adventure was founded in 1968 and is a family health and science attraction. Located in downtown Asheville in Pack Place, The Health Adventure features two levels of hands-on exhibits, a changing exhibits gallery with top-notch and blockbuster traveling exhibits, and enriching programs that seek to improve health awareness, promote wellness lifestyles, and increase science literacy.

If you've never checked it out I highly recommend it!

Yours truly.

Some of the actors.

Checking for paranormal activity.

Paranormal detector.

One of the actors chats with guests.

The Cast.

Someone has poisoned the moonshiner!

His angel makes an entrance.

One of the guests in costume.

ALLISON & TONY

2009-10-15T09:40:00.000-07:00

I have been friends with Allison and Tony for almost fourteen years so it was a total honor and joy to photograph their wedding. It was only the second wedding held at the Asheville Arboretum. Needless to say it is a beautiful place to get hitched!

If you want to see more of Allison and Tony's images you can view a cool slideshow here:

Allison and Tony's Slideshow

(Turn off website sound when viewing slideshow.)

HAYWOOD COUNTY FAIR

2009-10-15T09:31:00.001-07:00

There is nothing quite like a good county fair.

These images are from the Haywood County, North Carolina Fair.

Jamie made a friend.

PRAYING MANTIS

2009-10-15T09:29:00.001-07:00

I found this guy on my front porch a couple of weeks ago.

BALD RIVER FALLS, TENNESSEE

2009-10-15T09:13:00.000-07:00

Jamie and her niece Allison wanted to go on a bike ride so we loaded up and drove over to Tennessee on the Cherohala Skyway. About ten miles over the Tennessee line we made a left at Bald River and parked. From there it is a pretty easy bike ride up to the falls and back. The weather was beautiful and the whole day was spectacular.

Jamie, Allison and Yours Truly.

JOYCE KILMER MEMORIAL FOREST

2009-10-15T08:55:00.001-07:00

Jamie and I took a trip to Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest with my brother David and his family. It is on the edge of Lake Santeetlah near Robbinsville, North Carolina. If you've never been there it is a great day trip from anywhere in western North Carolina. You will find some of the largest Poplar and Hemlock trees in the eastern United States.

Except for this first shot taken by my brother David all photos were shot by Jamie.

Love this shot.

Jeremiah and Nathaniel.

Robin, David and the boys.

Me and a tree.

LIBERTY & CHRIS - ENGAGEMENT SHOOT

2009-09-22T11:01:00.001-07:00

Liberty, Chris & I took a drive into Cataloochee Valley to do some engagement shots. The weather was perfect and we just missed seeing a bear! I love working with relaxed down to earth couples like Liberty and Chris. I had a great time hanging out with you two. Thanks again.

JANESSA & CHRIS - HOT AIR BALLOON WEDDING

2009-09-10T14:06:00.001-07:00

If you think going for a hot air balloon ride is cool, well, you're right! Janessa & Chris tied the knot during a balloon ride and I was lucky enough to be their photographer. One of the highlights of the summer for sure. Thanks again for the experience Janessa & Chris.

5 POUND FIRE

2009-09-09T11:33:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure of hanging out with my friends from the band 5 Pound Fire the other night. They needed some new shots for their press kit so in between songs I grabbed a few.

You can check them out on myspace here: http://www.myspace.com/fivepoundfire

Caleb, Lead Vocals & Guitar

Ben, Drums

Doug, Guitar

Josh, Bass

5 Pound Fire

JANESSA & CHRIS

2009-08-28T10:51:00.000-07:00

Since Janessa and Chris were staying at The Grove Park Inn I suggested we hop on the parkway and head up to Craggy Gardens for their engagement shoot. The weather at 6,000 feet is always unpredictable and almost always dramatic. We got great shots while waiting for the sun to drop and although the clouds rolled in we ended up with some pretty cool sunset photos. I love a couple that isn't afraid to go to extremes! Oh yeah...I'll be posting some images from their hot air balloon wedding soon! Thanks again Janessa and Chris.

Na-Bers Drive In

2009-08-11T07:46:00.000-07:00

Jamie and I took a trip over to Bryson City last week to photograph Na-Bers Drive In for an article in Smoky Mountain Living Magazine. A very cool place to grab a burger and shake. Very old school!

Our car hop Dixie Hughes bringing the goods.

Na-bers classic burger: Cheese, tomato, slaw, bread & butter pickle and ketchup.

James Howard cooking up the burgers.

The drive up call box receiver.

The drive in parking area.

BROOKELY & ZACK

2009-07-30T09:14:00.000-07:00

Brookely & Zack were married at The Farm in Candler. A very nice photo friendly venue. I've known Brookely for a while so it was nice shooting a wedding where I knew lots of people. We definitely had a good time! Thanks again Brookely & Zack.

ALLISON & TONY'S ENGAGEMENT SHOOT

2009-07-08T09:12:00.000-07:00

My good friends Allison and Tony are getting married in September. We did an impromptu engagement session at their house in Canton. They had everything we needed: a really cool river rock house, a red and white barn and a motorcycle. Thanks guys!

LAKE SANTEETLAH

2009-06-24T08:05:00.000-07:00

There is a beautiful lake in western North Carolina called Santeetlah. I made two boat camping trips there this Spring. The first with my friends Dan and Doug in Dan's small motor boat and the second with Jamie in a canoe. We had perfect weather on both trips. Lots of relaxing and fishing.

TRIP #2:

Jamie and the mighty Montero getting ready to launch.

Nice campsite! Photo by Jamie.

Largemouth Bass. Photo by Jamie.

Catawba Rhododendreon. Photo by Jamie.

Jamie relaxing on "The Sittin Rock".

The view of Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest from our campsite.

Graveyard dating back to the early 1800's near our campsite.

TRIP #1:

Dan doing some sunrise fishing.

Moonrise. Shot from the boat on the way back to camp after evening fishing.

Evening Panoramic.

The magic lure!

Beautiful spring color.

A nice Largemouth Bass.

A Bald Eagle nest. Shot from our campsite.

CATALOOCHEE.....AGAIN.

2009-04-21T07:54:00.000-07:00

I was going to spend Sunday night camping in Cataloochee but we got rained out. I took these shots on the way home. I'm pretty sure the Elk are yearlings. One of them had slipped his radio collar so I made sure to get some close ups.

NEW ELK IMAGES

2009-03-30T09:29:00.001-07:00

I photographed these Elk in the Cataloochee area of Smoky Mountain National Park last October. I'm just getting around to playing with some of the non wedding images I shot over the past year. If you have never been to the park to see the Elk I highly recommend it. They are very majestic animals.

NEW MEETING ROOM FINISHED!

2009-03-30T09:10:00.001-07:00

I have finally finished transforming a spare room into a space to meet with brides. It is adjacent to my studio so I can now take brides on a quick studio tour and then we can relax while we look at samples of my work.

A couple of before and after shots:

NEW PAINTING

2009-03-20T09:05:00.001-07:00

I recently finished a new painting and thought I'd share it. Something different for me. 30"x30" Oil on canvas. Not sure what to title it?

CHOCOLATE & WINE AT THE HEALTH ADVENTURE

2009-03-11T07:45:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure of shooting a fundraiser for The Health Adventure last Friday. It was a chocolate and wine tasting event. Chocolates by French Broad Chocolate Lounge were paired with wines from Vaso De Vino wine shop. What can I say, it was the best of both worlds!

Chocolate by French Broad Chocolate Lounge.

Wine was provided by Vaso de Vino.

This girl is turning pennies to gold.

Copper to gold!

Jamie before the tasting.

LATE WINTER SNOW IN WAYNESVILLE

2009-03-03T09:08:00.000-08:00

Our home in Waynesville after the March 1st. snow.

ICE BIKE 2009!

2009-01-24T06:40:00.000-08:00

Most people who know me know I am an avid cyclist. Both road and mountain. Every now and then when conditions are right I break out the "Ice Bike". The Ice Bike is my old mountain bike fitted with "Ice Tires" that I made myself about 8 years ago. As you can see by the close up shots they will go anywhere. People up north actually ride them on frozen lakes. Needless to say it's always an adventure when the Ice Bike makes an appearance.

These shots were taken on the Flat Laurel Creek Trail in Pisgah National Forest, Haywood County, North Carolina.

Flat Laurel Creek

WPJA SELECTION!

2009-01-22T08:54:00.000-08:00

I am proud to announce that I have been selected to join the WPJA!

The Wedding Photojournalist Association is a worldwide organization of esteemed wedding photographers specializing in documentary style wedding photography. Needless to say I am in some very good company.

You can check it out at: www.wpja.com

NEW CARD DEDIGN FOR 09'

2009-01-22T08:35:00.000-08:00

A new year brings a new business card. A few color changes and a dandelion graphic. I think it turned out great.

Thanks once again to Amy Pryor Graphic Design!

WNC MAGAZINE BRIDAL PARTY

2009-01-21T09:04:00.001-08:00

Here I am chatting with a bride at the WNC Magazine bridal party last Thursday night in Asheville. They had lots of vendor displays, a bridal fashion show, food and drink. Proceeds went to the charity Climbing Towards Confidence.

Photo by: Camilla Calnan

Thanks Camilla!

BOOTH FEATURED ON CITIZEN TIMES WEB SITE

2009-01-12T10:37:00.000-08:00

Jamie and Jon D. Bowman photography made the Asheville Citizen Times wedding festival photo gallery!

Check it out here:

http://www.citizen-times.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Site=B0&Date=20090110&Category=NEWS01&ArtNo=901100803&Ref=PH&Params=Itemnr=16

2009 WEDDING FESTIVAL

2009-01-12T10:16:00.000-08:00

I'd like to thank all of the beautiful brides who stopped to chat and check out my work at the Wedding Festival in Asheville this past Saturday. Jamie and I had a great time with everyone! I would also like to thank Jamie for helping me get my display together. From conception to completion, I could not have done it without you.

Here are a few shots of the booth:

Notice the color coordination going on here!

WEDDING FESTIVAL!

2009-01-05T10:57:00.000-08:00

Come see me at the Wedding Festival show this Saturday in the Asheville civic center!

Here's a sample of the postcard my friend and graphic designer Amy Pryor and I did for the show:

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM JAMIE & JON!

2008-12-27T09:40:00.000-08:00

I know it's after Christmas but Jamie and I wanted to wish everyone a very happy holiday season!

Every year I create a card for Jamie and I to send out. With this blog, and more recently my facebook page, I can now share it with everyone.

COMMISSIONED PAINTING FINISHED!

2008-12-18T07:38:00.000-08:00

My friend Sandra asked me to create a painting of some Mayan ruins based on a photo from her brothers honeymoon as a wedding gift. I actually finished it back in September but it takes oil paint a very long time to dry! Anyway, it's dry and being picked up today.

Thanks again Sandra!

PISGAH HIGH SCHOOL YEAR BOOK CLASS PRESENTATION

2008-12-13T11:21:00.000-08:00

Last week I helped my friend and writer Michael Beadle give a presentation to the Pisgah High School (Haywood County, NC) year book class. I used my experience shooting weddings and my love of "decisive moment" photography to help motivate the students into being more creative behind the camera. We also talked about composition, shutter speeds, apertures, etc. Michael gave them lots of tips for writing captions for their photographs. The kids were very attentive and we had a great time.

Michael is an excellent speaker and instructor.

After our talk I gave the students my camera and told them to do some shooting. Here is some of what they got. Pretty cool stuff!

I don't remember who took this shot of me but I think I'll be using it.

WAYNESVILLE CHRISTMAS PARADE

2008-12-12T06:34:00.000-08:00

There is nothing quite like a small town Christmas parade. I attended the Waynesville parade Monday night. It was their first ever night parade so everyone was lit up.

CUMBERLAND ISLAND TRIP

2008-12-10T11:54:00.001-08:00

OK, time for vacation pics. Jamie and I spent Thanksgiving backpacking on Cumberland Island off the coast of south Georgia. We were joined by my brother, his wife and my two nephews. It was my fourth time on the island and every trip has just been awesome! I highly recommend it.

Jamie on the ferry ride over.

Jamie walking to the beach.

My brother David on the trail.

Jamie hiking up the beach. Notice how crowded it is.

Horseshoe Crab.

Jamie took this one at the campsite.

Not a bad campsite huh?

Nathaniel.

Wild Horses.

Jamie and I taking a break.

Live Oak and Spanish Moss.

Me kicking it old school on the beach.

I want to be free.

Armadillo Jumping.

Armadillo Running.

Jeremiah, David, Robin & Nathaniel

Again, notice how crowded?

Nathaniel.

Last shot. From the Riverside Hotel balcony in St. Mary's, Georgia

COLLIN'S FAMILY, CATALOOCHEE VALLEY

2008-12-06T06:40:00.000-08:00

Okay, so Cataloochee Valley is fast becoming one of my favorite shooting destinations. The Collins family was yet another down to earth, easy going experience. What a beautiful day we had. We just hung out at the old Palmer Homeplace, had a picnic and got great shots. Thanks for being so easy to work with guys. You did a great job!

EMILY & KEVIN, CATALOOCHEE VALLEY

2008-12-05T14:29:00.000-08:00

Emily & Kevin are not getting hitched until next July but they wanted engagement shots with fall color. Cataloochee Valley in Smoky Mountain National Park is one of their favorite spots so we spent a chilly morning shooting. I love going to remote locations! We had Elk and plenty of color. If you've never been there I highly recommend checking it out. I seem to be lucky in getting to know so many relaxed and down to earth couples. Looking forward to the wedding guys!

COURTNEY & JORGE, BANNER ELK, NC

2008-12-05T13:40:00.000-08:00

I traveled to Banner Elk, NC to shoot Courtney and Jorge's wedding. They had a very, very intimate wedding with just close family in attendance. I had a great time hanging out with them all day. By the time I left I really felt like one of the family. Thanks again for letting me share your day. We got some great images despite the rainy weather.

TIME TO GET CAUGHT UP!

2008-12-05T11:53:00.000-08:00

Back from our Thanksgiving trip and I am committed to catching up on this blog. I can't believe how behind I am on this!

OK - First, Erica and Doug. You guys were so cool and laid back! It was great getting to know you (and your dogs!). The ceremony and reception where held at Brahma Ridge Event Center. A beautiful, natural setting just outside of Asheville.

Here's the link: www.brahmaridgefarm.com

CUMBERLAND ISLAND TRIP

2008-11-21T06:56:00.000-08:00

We are very excited about Thanksgiving this year! Jamie, myself, my brother, his wife and their two boys will be spending the week of Thanksgiving on Cumberland Island. In case you've never heard of it (and most people haven't), it is an island and national seashore of the coast of southern Georgia. In my opinion the best kept island secret in the United States. Including the west coast. The island is 10 mile long and 1.5 miles wide and requires a 45 minute ferry ride to get there.

You can check it out here:

http://www.nps.gov/cuis/index.htm

2008-11-18T10:49:00.000-08:00

My mother in law asked me to take a picture of this giant cow in front of the new super wal-mart in Waynesville for her. So I did:

2008-11-17T12:17:00.000-08:00

NEW BLOG SPACE.

OK, I've moved my blog to this new space. It's actually a real blog spot where people can leave comments. My old blog was more of a photo journal then a blog. So I didn't lose any of my old entries I copied and pasted them to this new space so they all appear as one giant blog. I'll be adding lots of stuff in the next few weeks. Finally getting caught up from a busy October. More later.....

2008-11-17T10:59:00.001-08:00

Welcome to “The Blog”

I’ll try my best to keep up with the current events of my life on this here blog.
You may notice a lapse in entries from time to time but I’ll get to it eventually.
Like how I’ve had a blog since last year but am just now putting this little
introduction thing on it! Hey, we’re all busy right?

Anyway, thank you so much for taking the time to check it out.

Jon

Mattie & Max

Gone but not forgotten.

November 15th., 2008

BRITTANY & MONTE

Brittany & Monte had their ceremony at the Lake Junaluska Chapel and the reception at Grove Park in Asheville. It was a great day and I had lots of fun shooting. We even got to see Barack Obama taking a walk around the grounds! He was making a campaign stop in Asheville and was staying at Grove Park. Anyway, you guys were great. Thanks again for letting me be a part of your day.

Oh Yeah, these are some fantastic shots:

October 5th., 2008

LATE GARDEN HARVEST

As much as I love a fall garden I decided to pick the remaining peppers and tomatoes and cut my herbs to hang up to dry today. I’m using a hallway closet to dry them for a few weeks and then I’ll put them in jars and have them to use all winter. Much nicer then store bought dried herbs. Check it out:

Got some late Banana Peppers, Cayenne Peppers, One Jalapeno and a few Grape Tomatoes
Framed by Oregano on the left and Thyme on the right.

A very aromatic closet!
Frome Left to Right: Sage, Basil, Rosemary, Thyme & Oregano

A late blooming Zinnia

September 11th., 2008

ROUGH CREEK HIKE

About two weeks ago Jamie and I hiked the Rough Creek Watershed area of Haywood County. Formerly the Canton Watershed it has only been open to hiking and biking since this spring. After 4 miles you reach the top of the mountain and some spectacular views. That makes an 8 mile hike! We’re getting in shape for a backpacking trip to Cumberland Island National Seashore over Thanksgiving so we needed the exercise.

Butterlfy and Bull Thistle

Jamie: Extreme Hiker

View from the top.

Another view from the top.

September 10th., 2008

RIVERVIEW FARM

I went to Riverview Farm last month on assignment for Smoky Mountain Living Magazine. If you’ve ever gone to the state fair and enjoyed some home made apple ice cream this is the guy that makes it. They grow organic apples, blackberries, raspberries and asparagus. Look for the article in the next issue.

Asparagus

September 8th., 2008

STEPHANIE & JIM

I really enjoyed shooting Stephanie and Jim’s wedding. They both have a wonderful sense of humor and loved goofing around in front of the camera. I think I could include their friends and family in that also! The ceremony was held at Inspiration Point, which is at Lake Junaluska with the reception at Waynesville Country Club. Once again everyone, including me, had a great time. I was glad to hear that they are moving to Asheville. I’m hoping to get Jim out on some bike trails. Thanks again guys!

September 1st., 2008

THE PATIO

OK, I'm going to brag on the patio I built one more time. My vision for it has finally been realized. I've got flowers, herbs and vegetables going and it just looks awesome right now. Check it out:

August 28th., 2008

MEG & WILL

I've been spending a fair amount of time out on trails and in rural settings with my couples so it was really cool to do an urban shoot. Meg choose downtown Asheville for her bridal portrait. Downtown Asheville as tons of great spots to shoot. I love peoples reactions when they see a bride in her wedding dress. "Congratulations" and "Your so beautiful" were the words of the day. Thanks again Meg! It was great working with you!

Meg and Will had there reception at Coleman Place in Asheville. Very relaxed and friendly. I had a great time and I’m pretty sure everyone else did to!

AUGUST 18th., 2008

MELISSA & JONATHON

Melissa & Jonathon got married in a small country church in Haywood County. They had a great vision for the shots they wanted between the ceremony and the reception. Jonathon's family just happens to have a beautiful farm and also own the oldest cabin in Haywood County. Add a couple of horses and an old tractor and what you get are some fantastic photographs. The reception was at a place called "The White Barn" which is just that. Very cool. Thank you Melissa and Jonathon, you guys rock!

JULY 31st., 2008

Another Cover Shot!

My friend and talented writer, Michael Beadle is coming out with a new book of poetry entitled "Friends We Haven't Met". He asked me to shoot the cover for it and Amy Prior did the design. Pretty cool.

You can check out Michael at: www.beadlepoet.com

JULY 26th., 2008

MELISSA & JOHN

Melissa & John had their ceremony on Purchase Knob which is now part of Smoky Mountain National Park. Have you ever seen a better spot to get married? Once again I have to thank Melissa & John for choosing me to capture their wedding. You guys are awesome!
Here are a few I liked:

Need I say more?

Nerves of steel.

Greg, the proud papa.

Melissa's son Ryan during the ceremony.

Groom's cake.

I guess you guys were meant for each other.

I love it.

JULY 24th., 2008

Cover Shot!

Check out my cover shot and the summer wildflower spread in Smoky Mountain Living magazine:

JULY 10th., 2008

Proof That I Work!

For all you doubters out there, here is proof that I actually do work.

Well, I guess you could call it that?

At Melissa and John's ceremony on Purchase Knob. What a place to tie the knot!

Self portrait with a bunch of goofballs. Especially you Megan!

JULY 9th., 2008

BROOKE & RICH

As I mentioned in my previous entry, Brooke and Rich were wed at our home on June 21st. It was an awesome experience to both host and photograph a wedding at the same time. It rained everywhere but at our house. I guess we were in the wedding bubble. Got some great shots, and had fun hanging out with old and new friends. It was definitely a night to remember. Enjoy:

JULY 7th., 2008

Our Yard and Patio

OK, I know I have been a very slack blogger lately but there are lots of things to come.

The wedding my wife and I hosted at our house has come and gone. Everything went great and a good time was had by all. Brooke and Rich made a lovely couple and I wish them a lifetime of happiness. I'll be posting wedding photos soon.

We now have a completed patio, which I have been working on for a year. We also painted our gazebo and did tons of yard work. Everyone thought we should make our home a small wedding event center. Here are a few pics of the grounds:

Our gazebo with a fresh coat of paint and a wedding cake.

The finished patio built by hand, by me. It took a year working on it off and on but was well worth it.

Back yard set up and ready.

JUNE 17th., 2008

Brooke & Rich's Rehearsal

I mentioned earlier in the blog that our good friends Brooke and Rich are getting married at our house. Well it's this Saturday and they had a little rehearsal last night so I got some practice shots in. Look for the real thing soon.

Rich's daughter India.

Rich, Brooke, Trent, India and the ham, Megan.

Practice makes perfect!

My wife Jamie relaxing during the rehearsal.

JUNE 17th., 2008

Elk in North Carolina!

Melissa and I had a first and probably a last during her bridal portrait shoot. While on our way from the Heintooga Spur Rd. in Smokey Mountain National Park to our next location on Waterock Knob we ran into a group of four Elk! They had made there way from Cataloochee Valley where they were originally released as part of the parks Elk reintroduction program. They seemed healthy and happy and we grabbed a few shots while we could. These may be the first and only bridal portrait shots with Elk outside of Cataloochee Valley.

JUNE 14th., 2008

Melissa's Bridal Shoot

Melissa and I decided on Heintooga Spur Road in Smoky Mountain National Park and Waterrock Knob along the Blue Ridge Parkway for her bridal portrait shoot. We found some great spots and came across some Elk while we were up there! Here's a few of my favorites.

MAY 20th., 2008

Meg & Will's Engagement Shoot

Meg & Will decided on the Arboretum at Bent Creek for their engagement shoot. We had lots of fun checking out all the gardens and walkways and came away with some great shots:

MAY 12th., 2008

Melissa & John's Engagement Shoot

Every now and then you do a shoot when everything comes together. The engagement shoot I did with my friends Melissa and John was one of these shoots.
Aside from getting lots of great shots this was one of those shoots that has helped define my style as a wedding photographer. I was able to capture the ideas in my head with my camera, which is not always an easy thing. Thank you Melissa and John for being so easy to work with and for sharing my vision for your engagement images. I have created a separate gallery on the web site just from this shoot. Below are a few of my favorites.

APRIL 14th., 2008

Haywood County Special Olympics

Last week I had the honor of volunteering at the Haywood County Special Olympics. I told the organizers I was a photographer and they suggested I just roam the event with my camera because they are always in need of good pictures. I was actually hoping that's what I could do. I got lots of really great shots and had a great time hanging out with the athletes. If you ever get the chance to volunteer for the Special Olympics or just attend and cheer the athletes on it's an experience you will never forget. I'll let the photographs speak for themselves:

APRIL 9th., 2008

Spring

I went into the back yard the other day and LOW AND BEHOLD! Spring had sprung. Our yard is full of what they call "Money Plants" or "Silver Dollar Plants". In late summer and fall they have all these round shiny discs the size of silver dollars. This is what they look like in the spring. Very pretty and photogenic.

Secret Daffodil 1

Secret Daffodil 2

Our back yard & gazebo

APRIL 1st., 2008

Five Pound Fire

OK, I've never done much band/rock n roll photography but my friends in "Five Pound Fire" needed a group shot for their press kit so I thought I'd give it a shot. Here are a few that turned out pretty well and I think the guys liked them to.

PS - They play all original material and it's really good. If you get the chance go see them live.

Five Pound Fire

MARCH 28th., 2008

Brooke & Rich

I just wanted to share this cool engagement party invite that I developed with my friend and graphic designer Amy Prior. Amore Infinito is Italian for Infinite Love.

MARCH 25th., 2008

Our Home

On the business side of things I've booked weddings for June, July and September this month! My wife Jamie and I will actually be holding a small wedding at our home in Waynesville in June. It should be interesting. We are fortunate enough to have a beautiful, historic home with a nice yard and a Gazebo. Who knows, maybe we'll start having more weddings at our home. Here's a shot of it:

Our home in Waynesville

MARCH 22nd., 2008

Amy & Blackie

My friend and neighbor Amy asked if I could shoot her portrait for her mom's birthday present. Nothing fancy just some quick shots around my house. She brought her dog "Blackie" along and we got some pretty cool shots of the two of them. I've also posted a few of Amy in my portrait gallery.

Amy & Blackie in the Breezeway

Amy Lovi'n on Blackie

Blackie relaxing after a hard photo shoot

Winter farm in Haywood County, NC

February 28th., 2008

Hello and welcome to my new blog page!

I’ll use this blog to relay my latest adventures in the world of wedding photography and my life in general. I never thought I’d have a blog but after checking out some other ones I came to realize it’s a great way to get to know a photographer/person before contacting or meeting with them. I think your personality comes through on the page and it also gives people a glimpse into your personal life they may not see otherwise.

OK, here goes.

If you’re reading this you probably know I’ve been a professional photographer for over 25 years. I started in the commercial field and when I tired of the “big city” I moved to Western NC and pursued my love of nature/landscape photography. Now I’ve added wedding and portrait to the list.

If you follow this blog you will be able to experience my wedding business growth with me. I launched this web site last year. I’ve done several weddings, some portraits and even a retirement party. I really am enjoying the whole process. So far this year I have weddings booked May through August and I am getting lots of inquiries.

Well that’s the business side in a very small nutshell.

And now for the personal side:

I’ve been married to my lovely wife Jamie for 6 years now. We live in beautiful downtown Waynesville, NC and I have a really cool studio above our garage. I’m an avid cyclist so I’ve been riding my bike whenever it’s warm enough. I enjoy both mountain biking and road riding although I like getting out in the woods on my mountain bike the best. We love to travel and if you’ve seen my other web site you know I fell in love with Italy and can’t wait to get back.

I’ve got to go but I will be making regular blog posts so check back and thanks for reading!

My friends Caleb and Doug from the band Five Pound Fire

Jamie in downtown Waynesville at Christmas