It's been awhile....I know.

I know that it has been some time since I last blogged. I find that my days fill quickly and by the time the sun sets, so does my desire to sit behind the computer and blog. In the age of social media, I do recognize that many of you, both new, old and prospective clients, rely on photographer's blogs to gain insight on the photographer you are about to hire or interested in hiring. Believe it or not, photographers are just as interested in these blogs as well. We gain inspiration from them. And we can all use a little inspiration every once and a while. If you have ever googled a particular type of photographer, whether wedding, senior or newborn, you will be amazed at the talent that is out there. I am completely amazed and often in awe of what others are doing. It inspires me to be a better photographer and gives me something tangible to shoot for. If I tear up or laugh or smile while looking at a talented photographer's images, I only hope that someone who is looking at mine, finds themselves doing the same. I will admit....I have a lot to learn about photography. I will always consider myself a student. Photography is dynamic. The lens capture and freezes an instant. The art of photography is just as dynamic. Don't believe me? Look at photographs from your parents wedding day and look at your own. See a difference? Look at photographs from when you were young and compare them to your own child's photographs. Need I continue? The immense changes in technology has created amazing photographic quality. Digital photography itself has created mind numbing options when it comes to photographing and post processing.

So where am I going with all this mumble-jumble......every time I step into a client's home or into my small residential studio, I am blessed with a talent and a passion that allows me to create and capture images that will last a lifetime and beyond. To celebrate life and love through the art of photography is the inspiration that drives me to push harder and work harder. The privilege to enter anyone's life, even for only a short time, is a humbling and blessed feeling. Thank you to my clients for making me who I am today and what you make me in the future!
Blessings-Patti

Melanie & Matt::e.session {Patti Maravolo Photography::West Michigan Wedding and Portrait Photographer}

{Fade in} Gun Lake, on the dock at sunset. Melanie turns to find her boyfriend of 9 years on bended knee. Matt asks, "Will you merry me?"

The one thing that still gives me goosebumps, makes my heart skip a beat, and puts a high school, giddy girl smile on my face, is hearing a couple's engagement story. I love it!

I had the chance to catch up with the Phoenix couple while they visited their Michigan based families for the holidays. Though living in the warm desert, Melanie and Matt were both great sports, as we walked the very cold streets of downtown Grand Rapids. A much needed coffee break at Biggby (mmmmmm....peppermint stick mocha!), offered us time to chat! Melanie mentioned that, though together for many years, they have only 3 photographs of themselves....together!!!!! Well.....problem solved, Melanie! You'll soon have an album and a wall full of photographs of you and Matt!

It was a honor to photograph this beautiful couple! I cannot wait for their July wedding on Gun Lake!

melanie and matt

sassy and playful

a stolen kiss. timeless.

Rebecca {Patti Maravolo Photography::West Michigan Wedding and Portrait Photographer}

In the best attempt to catch up with the blogging world, I cannot leave out Rebecca! I had the honor of being Rebecca's first professional photo shoot and she was an amazing little girl! Born on November 21st, she for sure has stolen the heart of her daddy and mommy! From the fine spiky hair to the wrinkles and baby smell....I, too, was smitten! Who can resist the power of a new born baby?! Thank you to Carrie and Josh for this beautiful opportunity! And to Rebecca, too! You have an amazing future before you! Happy Birthday, precious one!

This is my favorite. Need I say more?!

New Year, New Look

Happy New Year! Yes...I have returned to the blogging world. I tried to simplify my time in front of the computer, but I missed blogging! The good news, in addition to returning to the blogging world, I have created a fan page on Facebook! So, if you have not become a "fan", I invite you too! Join me and follow me on Facebook and be entered in a chance to win a free portrait session (basic sitting session). Winner will be announced February 1! Good Luck!!!!

Not only have I returned to blogging, you will notice that I have a new blog page as well. Not sure how it happened....but it did! And it goes well with the new year! :) I do hope you enjoy and find yourself visiting often!