JPG Photography

A few of my new Favs

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PhiladelphiaPhotojournalism.com is the NEW BLOG

2008-12-18T04:25:00.002-05:00

I have very much appreciated Google's Blogger for my needs the past two years, but it's time to switch to a great blog to display the work of JPG Photography. As of today, the new site to keep up with JPG Photography is: www.philadelphiaphotojournalism.com

Over the next six weeks, you'll see lots of great visual changes for JPG Photography. I hope you'll check back weekly to see what we've been working on.

But as of Dec. 17, Blogger is NO LONGER being used. Please change appropriate bookmarks and links as necessary.

Here's to wishing you lots of love, luck and laughter in 2009!

Best,
Joe G
JPG Photography

Photojournalistic Family Portraits in Bucks County

2008-12-15T04:32:00.004-05:00

OK, one of the best parts of being a photographer is documenting your friends and family grow up with you. Last month, I had this very opportunity with Sara Franco and her family. Sara and I were friends in high school, me at La Salle and her at Gwynedd-Mercy and I had the pleasure of her company during one of my dances. I think it was junior year, right Sara?

Anyway, as a very sweet gift, her, and her two great sisters, decided to give family portraits to her Mom. Despite some of the cold weather, we went out to Tyler State Park in Bucks County, PA, and just had an amazing time. We found wonderful light and candid moments with everyone.

When everyone has fun and is truly happy, (NOT cheesy), is the time when the best images are captured. And that’s photojournalism…

We had a great afternoon. Thanks Franco’s! Happy birthday to Mom!

Puppy photographs from Virginia

2008-12-14T15:50:00.014-05:00

With the holidays coming near, no doubt a lot of people will be picking up new puppies, and that, of course, means a ton of puppy pictures will be clogging e-mail from coast to coast.

Count me among those people.

Meet Bear:

Kristen and I got him as an early Christmas gift from my parents over Thanksgiving. He's a chocolate lab. The name fits since he looked kind of bear-ish in the first photos we saw, and he has a bit of a ferocious streak when he's playing hard. Plus, it's a name he'll grow into, too; his father weighs 100 pounds. All in all, he's a good little fella.

One thing about him, though, is he's hard to photograph. Composing an image involving a critter that wiggles this much and this randomly really is challenging, and it's not like I haven't dealt with moving subjects before -- wedding dance floors can get pretty crazy! So, I'm challenging myself to capture the moments that describe Bear as he is in puppyhood. That way when he's nearly the size of a real bear we can look back at how goofy he was as a tot.

For those of you also wrangling with a little fur ball, don't be afraid to grab your camera and roll on the floor with him (or her). You'll be glad you did.

Here are some of the shots I've pulled off so far. Hopefully the images get better as I get up to his speed!

He still hasn't learned to walk down the stairs, but he's hop down a few with some encouragement from Kristen.

It's a love bite. ... Promise.

This is pretty much the only time he REALLY listens.

This is a new thing he's doing. He gnaws on the bowl hoping morsels will magically appear.

Nap time. ... And Kristen, by the way, is utterly smitten.

So admit it, he's freakin' adorable.

I'm sure we'll be busy over the holidays keeping up with Bear. We'll keep y'all posted in the coming months as he grows and (hopefully) matures.

Have a wonderful, safe holiday, and a prosperous New Year.

Warmest Regards,
Dan (& Kristen & Bear)

Penn's Landing Wedding in Philadelphia with Deanna and Wes

2008-12-13T17:02:00.013-05:00

For all the good reasons, this wedding at Penn's Landing in Philadelphia looked and felt like a true October wedding. The leaves were great, the weather was brisk, and we had amazing colors all day to work with.

Deanna and Wes live in South Jersey (but we won't hold that against them) because they're true Philly fans at heart, especially the Phillies. They're such great fans that I got to go over their wedding schedule the week before the wedding while watching the Phillies win a playoff game in their beautiful Gloucester County home. Any couple cool enough to watch the game and talk weddings during commercials is AWESOME in my book.

That's why we HAD to shoot this at the wedding:

The day of, the two of them didn't let me down. Totally relaxed. Totally cool, calm and collected. Just a pleasure. I got started with the dress shot above, had some great getting ready moments and moved on to a beautiful portrait of Deanna before we left.

(One of Faye's)

This is at the Hyatt Regency -- Penn's Landing. A great hotel!

Then there was a beautiful ceremony at this beautiful historical church, St. George's UMC.

(One of Bec's)
(One of Faye's)
(One of Faye's)

We had some fun on Independence Mall after the ceremony!

And then on to the great party at the Hyatt Regency: This place is beautiful. It was classy and had plenty of space and bars for a great party!

(One of Faye's)
(One of Faye's)
(One of Bec's)
Congrats you two. We had a blast! you're love is amazing, and thanks for a classy day!

Union Station Engagement photos in Washington D.C. of Kate and Mike

2008-12-12T05:12:00.008-05:00

When a couple advises you prior to shooting that they 'TRUST' you, and want to do some non-traditional types of photos, you know it's a good day!

This Philadelphia photographer and photojournalist was pretty thrilled that Kate and Mike called me, explaining that they wanted to start at Union Station, but take time to focus on the trains because Kate has family who worked on the rails. Of course, we took time on the National Mall...but we didn't overdo it. Then we followed it up with ice skating at the Sculpture Garden which is part of the National Gallery of Art.

Honestly, if anyone wants to make me happy and get extra time shooting for free, I'm a sucker for ice skating. I love it. My mom instilled it in me when I was younger, and I used to know as many figure skaters as I did the starting lineup for the Philadelphia Phillies.

So Kate and Mike rocked, did everything I asked, and just had so much fun. It was frickin cold, but hey, we got out of the wind pretty fast, took time to get warm, and of course, enjoyed some hot chocolate. My assistant, Jason, also got some good shots, and we all had a great afternoon in our nation's capital.

Thanks guys. Congratulations!

Enjoy their images on Pictage: www.pictage.com/598750

Philadelphia engagement shots in Love Park

2008-12-09T02:22:00.005-05:00

Aanchal and Nitin are quite a couple. Besides being completely in love in the frigid Philadelphia temperatures, they're up for many of my wacky ideas! Boy were they in trouble. Don't trust everything this Philadelphia Photographer says!

Just kidding. These two were great. I only tempted fate for a second and had a pre-teen skateboarder jump over their head a Love Park. Killer shot!

This long distance couple is madly in love, and I'm proud to part of their story. He works in Philly. Her in North Carolina. Have to respect their love over that distance. Bec and I, as many of you know, have been long distance most of our relationship. So gave them some tips and wish them the best!

We also went to the Art Museum, and took advantage of SEPTA at Surburban Station. And of course, City Hall.

Great job guys. We're thrilled. Can't beat this Philly Skyline either!

Enjoy their images on Pictage: www.pictage.com/594683

Great job you two! We had a blast!

Backyard wedding photography with a pig roast in Maryland

2008-11-30T18:15:00.007-05:00

Classy indoor weddings with the artwork, candles and mood lighting are great. You all know I love them. But I experienced one of the ultimate American traditions in October with Karen & Rick ... the backyard wedding.

I'll admit, I was a bit skeptical at how nice the day would be. On outdoor wedding in October carries some risk. But I couldn't have been more pleased, and I had the honor of being involved with an amazing family who enjoyed rural living, beautiful skies and nature at its best. This Philadelphia Photographer is thrilled with the results.

Karen and Rick had the wedding at a family member's house in Hampstead, MD and the scenery was fantastic. The weather was perfect, and I don't know if the sky could get more blue.

One of the best parts of the day, for all of us, was the extra time set aside for pictures on these old Minneapolis Moline tractors. They're rusted over, but so hott in pictures. And of course, much credit must go to the wedding party for being so open with sitting on dirt, rust and logs.

They even had a pig roast and beer truck, which were perfect accompaniments for everyone. The guests were pleased. The food was amazing. It was a blast. Congrats you two. We're thrilled!

TO VIEW ALL OF THE IMAGES WHEN RELEASED, sign up at Pictage. Click here: www.pictage.com/540250

Possibly my best dress shot...ever
Hard to beat this sunset.

They look smokin' good

The pig blesses the rings...

My job is so easy when working with families like this...
Karen enjoyed this a bit too much...

Best Wishes!

Joe G (& Bec)
www.jpgphotography.com

15 minutes of photojournalistic family portraits with the Townley's

2008-11-26T04:39:00.006-05:00

It was not an hour I'm not used to shooting at, but by 8 a.m., I was snapping away, watching the newest Townley take to her parents, my wife and their hardwood floor. These are my kind of family pictures and photojournalistic family portraits. Just relaxed and come as you are...it's purity!

Rebecca and I had a wedding in D.C., so we decided to catch up with Danielle & Rob the night before. This couple, now a family living in Maryland, was one of my first clients back in 2005, and we've become great friends since. We're so proud to see how their family has grown with their first child, Anna. We hope to be there for the first steps, school and her future!

This beauty is going to steal the show, just like her parents. She already has a smile which lights up the room. The family dog, Scout, isn't too bad either. He's just like our GusMAN, so we naturally love him like our own, too.

Thanks so much for a great night Townley's!

Best,
Bec & Joe

P.S. Still can't believe the Gidjuni lost so quickly at Monopoly...haha!

A few with Anna on Rebecca's lap...

Scout and Gus are the same size...too cute!

Gotta love the toes.
Look at that smile!
Watching the "Bride Falls in Pool" video from my Blog site. We still crack up over this one.

A nice one of the kids.

Check out these, and a few more images on Pictage: www.pictage.com/590062

Wedding Photography in Hampton Roads with Marissa & Brock

2008-11-25T11:49:00.007-05:00

When planning a wedding, please remember to think of the seasons. I was nervous when Marissa and Brock decided to have an outdoor wedding around Hampton Roads in Cape Charles, Virginia...in October. But, the weather the two of them had was nothing short of spectacular. It was warm, sunny with just a touch of wind. It was if God touched these two with a killer wedding present, perfect weather.

Then they had to go and spoil the day by having one of best ceremonies and reception parties I've been to. Just unbelievable guests on the dance floor...and by the bar. Everything took place at the Bay Creek Resort, and both Dan and I were impressed with the accommodations and smoothly things ran. They have it all there.

Now what is so difficult about these two are how photogenic they are. These are only my shots. Dan shot with me, and he has his own faves. Just too much going on! We were honored to be there Marissa and Brock. The love you share is amazing, and we were so happy to be there!

Marissa looking truly elegant...
Before...
After...

This was NOT staged. Ask Brock. He just did it. Yeah baby! Loving it.
GQ all the way
Hard to beat this sunset on your wedding day!

The two of them took a trip on a boat after the reception. The boat is named for Brock's grandmother, and Marissa got to meet two of the uncles and later had a dance.

Great Baltimore Wedding Photographs...even under the weather

2008-11-18T13:49:00.006-05:00

Some people fall in adversity. Others crumble. But not Elizabeth and Scott. These two didn't allow anything to get in the way of their great Baltimore wedding plans!

On Sept. 27, I faced the third hardest rain storm in my 10 years of photography. It rained, and poured and rained some more. But the two of them didn't allow it to interfere with their day. They kept positive, vibrant, and in Elizabeth's case, radiant! All day, she looked amazing. Scott wasn't too shabby either, but you have to give credit to the joy Elizabeth shared with everyone all day! The two of them are great.

It was an honor for me to be a part of this wedding because Scott and I went to high school together at La Salle College High School. Yes, it was all boys. Don't remind me...haha. But it was a great experience, and it was great to catch up with so many La Salle gentlemen. It became a mini-reunion, with of course, the guests of honor stealing the show.

They chose a great hotel, the Intercontintal Harbor Court in Baltimore, to get ready, allowing us to get fantastic shots like this of Elizabeth below, and the guys outside:

As you can see, the rain was sizeable...
But then we got inside the St. Ursula Catholic Church, and everything panned out beautifully!

What a great party. So proud of you both. Congrats!

Best,
Joe G

Spiritual wedding day with Mollie & Jon

2008-11-11T03:51:00.006-05:00

Mollie and Jon held a wonderful spiritual ceremony at Grace Church in Lititz, PA. And even in Lancaster area, they chose a Philadelphia Photographer to capture the moments!

Why? Well, I always tell my couples that the ceremony is so important. It's your announcement to God and the community, including your friends and family, that you're committed to one person. You're vows are a thank you, and respect to God, for putting this perfect compliment for you on this Earth. ((Love you REBECCA!))

Mollie & Jon shared a moving ceremony for themselves and family.

Then, of course...we started to PARTY!

They chose a beautiful new location, the Leola Village Inn & Suites, and the lighting, backdrop and dance floor was just killer. We got great moments all night, and then had a great sparkler exit.

We even met a great videographer who we recommend. We worked side-by-side without any problems, so this is really a compliment! His name is Derek Dienner, and he's with High Medium Productions.

It was a perfect night! We're honored you two! Thanks so much!

Best Wishes!
Joe & (Bec)

And these last two great shots are by Bec!

Chadds Ford wedding photography with Julie and Chris

2008-11-09T15:01:00.023-05:00

Last month we shot great casual and classy wedding photographs with Julie and Chris! Both of them are so polite and nice.

What they did well to keep costs down, is getting ready at home. Now typically, this is a logistical nightmare for us, as the photographers. See, Bec and I only take one car, and we need to be near it with all of our gear, backups, lights, ladder, etc. But they both got ready only a few miles from each other! Problem solved. Rebecca dropped me off at Julie's and then drove to Chris' place. After 45 minutes, an hour, she came back to get me at Julie's, just in time to head to the ceremony.

They held it at The Gables of Chadds Ford, an absolutely beautiful and classy location for everything. Food was great. Service was great. We highly recommend this place, and we're so grateful to Julie and Chris for choosing such a wonderful spot. All of their guests had a killer time, and so did we. We're so honored to have been a part of their day. These two really are some of the nicest people we've ever met. Thanks so much!

Love this shot of her dad! Yes, a wedding IS this tiring...

Great dress!

One by Bec beforehand...
I love her smile before her dad gives her away.
Perfect positioning from one of our new photographers, Jason, who came with Bec & I.
Great lighting!
His grandma is so cute.
His dad plays a wicked accordian! The whole room stopped what they were doing and piled around him for this moment. It was one of the best moments of the whole day!
On the dance floor!
They're nutz for getting married!
His niece is adorable! One of about 20 pictures we got of her.
Gotta have one with the guys...
Best,

Joe & (Bec)

If you attended, we use Pictage, for viewing. Please register at www.pictage.com/540246 for a free $5 print credit.

Barack Obama wins!

2008-11-07T23:49:00.007-05:00

All Hail to the Chief! The Chief-to-be, that is...

As a newspaper photojournalist and reporter for the Courier-Post, election night is always work. Getting quotes from this candidate. Interviewing voters about their thoughts. Finding the non-cliche photo. Now, being at a local paper, we don't exactly have access to the big names. There is no reporter covering the presidential race. Instead, I had the 1st Congressional District of New Jersey between Rob Andrews and Dale Glading.

But, for this year's presidential election, as soon as our newsroom realized there was no doubt that Barack Obama would become this nation's first African-American President, and take over the White House, it became clear we needed to find an Obama Party before the news media would make the call.

I found students huddling around big-screen TVs at Rutgers University-Camden, a school with a large Black population. So I just waited...but I didn't have to long. When CNN called the race, the crowd erupted. None of this was posed. Obama didn't win. They had. The energy was brilliant and overwhelming and beautiful, regardless of which candidate you supported.

What I'm proud of is that I'll always go down in the history books for working on this historic day. On the front page of my paper, there are only two pictures, one of Obama, and one of my shots from above. I also grabbed some quotes, but I'm really pleased with the last-minute photos. I'm proud to be an American, again...

Joe G

P.S. My contributions are meager, so I recommend a few other links, one from the New York Times: Damon Winter Photo Essay

And another from Getty

Wedding photojournalism at its finest and funnest

2008-11-01T13:59:00.017-05:00

What a blast we had with these two! I knew the ever-effusive Mr. and Mrs. Wade were my kind of folk when I did their engagement shoot back in August. It was pouring rain when we were supposed to start the shoot in Great Falls State Park. Were they bummed? Hardly, we just shifted the venue to the Museum of Natural History to get some face (fossil, really) time with one of Pam's passions: dinosaurs.

The wedding was no different. They were relaxed and oh-so-fun. Both of them are seasoned performers -- they met in the a capella scene in college -- so camera shyness was never a threat.

Some of their extremely talented friends performed during ceremony at the gorgeous St. Aloysius church, and the reception at the Meridian House was stunning. Very classy.

It's hard picking favorites from such a beautiful wedding, but here's a quick take of a few that struck my fancy.

Congratulations guys!
- Dan

Yep, that's Pam's mom and dad in the background there.

The Meridian House had this snazzy courtyard area. Couldn't resist it.

That mirror is a family heirloom.

Nerves of steel on this fella.

Funny thing is, the baby Jesus in that stained glass at the top looks like he has a beard.

I didn't catch this guy's last name, but I'm pretty sure his first name is Stud.

Phillies World Series Parade in Philadelphia Oct. 31, 2008

2008-11-01T11:05:00.015-05:00

I had the privilege to photograph the Philadelphia Phillies World Series Parade yesterday for my newspaper, the Courier-Post.

I nailed some killer photographs on the parade route. I had all the turf between 20th and Market and Philadelphia City Hall. I often became part of the show during the 3 hours prior to the start of the parade as I helped toss beach volleyballs and tennis balls, back into the crowd. I also got cheers, boos and a couple cat calls as people were trying to get me to shoot some shots of them. I ended up shooting 14 gbs of cards and about 900 shots. I still haven't gone through all of my wide angles, but here a some of my favorites:

Hold that trophy proud Mayor Michael Nutter

I love this one with the Comcast Center in the background:

As a lifelong Phillies lover, and baseball fan (MLB), it was an opportunity I would never have passed up. I felt like I was part of history, and I so proud of my team. In one fell swoop, they turned Philadelphians into winners. Thanks Phillies! We're behind you forever!

Best,
Joe & (Bec)

Delaware Wedding Photographs with Jenn and Jimmy

2008-10-29T13:43:00.010-05:00

Take a beach, a bar and tons of fun people, and you get a party. That's what Jenn and Jimmy lined up last month in Delaware, and I was able to shoot some killer Delaware wedding photographs. These two have had a heck of a time between Jimmy being a big-time video production guy for NBC sports. He was sent to China for the Olympics one month before the wedding. Talk about long-distant planning. And Jenn had duel responsibilities between her great job working for kids, and putting the finishing touches on the day.

While they could have chosen a day in the summer for this beach, bar wedding, they chose September, and I have to say, killer decision. Beautiful weather. Absolutely stunning sunset. Great location at the North Beach Restaurant, too, right on the water. But hey, if you don't believe me, see below:

We had such a great time you two! Congrats. We were thrilled to be there. Love the surfboards!

Best,
Joe & (Bec)

Bride falls in pool ... Should the groom have jumped in after her? & Wedding Tip of the Month

2008-10-20T22:53:00.012-05:00

Wedding Tips: Bride falls in pool

... Role with it and have fun!

I laughed so loud when I saw this tonight that I woke Rebecca up. She's in bed, trying to get some Zzzz before her 5:30 a.m. alarm.

I know it's wrong to laugh at this, but I had to call her down the stairs. She hated me, until she saw it, and started laughing, too.

But this got us thinking, what should the groom have done? Jump in, of course. We agreed.

So our conversation went like this:

Rebecca: "I hope that bride was cool about the whole thing."
Joe: "I do, too, but from the looks of that wedding, I picked up a traditional bride vibe. I bet she saw it as the worst moment in her life, instead of the funniest."
Rebecca: "If I fell, you should jump in after me."
Joe: "I know. That would be fun."
Rebecca: "They should have done their vows from down there."
Joe: "Absolutely. But instead of a first kiss, they should ad lib a dunk kiss and play some Marco Polo."

And here comes our tip:

One of my own quotes is this, I'll die happy if I never shoot another cookie-cutter wedding for the rest of my life."

For the record, I'm NOT wishing horrible moments on my brides. On the contrary. But I warn them that something bad may happen, and to role with it when it does.

Here is an example from last month. Elizabeth and Scott, two great people had quite honestly the second worst rain I've had in my four years with JPG Photography. They could have sulked, but they didn't. They went with it. They even took shots in the rain. They were great.

Look at the size of that rain off that umbrella!

As Bride and Groom, your guests and family members take their cues on how to behave from you both. If you are stressed or angry, so are they. Only, during the day of the wedding, there is usually little to nothing they can do. So things get worse because they're trying to fix something, only they're helpless.
So keep cool the day of the wedding. Have fun, and don't let anything (including getting tripped by the best man) get in the way of it.

Best,
Joe G

P.S. A special thanks to my buddy, Ron Solimon, at Litrato Photography, for sending this to me.

Pet Portraiture

2008-10-16T20:42:00.005-05:00

The other photojournalist in the JPG Photography household felt inspired today to take pet portraits of our growing boy, Gus. Many of you remember our favorite dog/son/boy when we adopted him last November. Well, he's healthy and growing and oh so cute! I'm quite certain these are some of the best pictures Bec has ever taken of him, but then again, I'm a proud dad who's full of bias!

We love the yawn and stretch!

Gus striking a pose. He turns his head just when we need him to...umm, right?!?

We think he looks scholarly in this one...

He's too sexy for this shot...

And now he's spent, done, fin. He walked off set and shouted, "Mooommm. I'm outta here."
Best,
Bec & Joe & the Gusman...

Photojournalistic family portraits outside Philadelphia

2008-10-13T02:06:00.010-05:00

What a perfect portrait photography weekend! (Couldn't ignore the alliteration.) So much going on. October is certainly the month everyone wants pictures, but that's good for me. I'm a fall guy. I love mid 60s weather. It just so happened that Sunday, it stayed in the 70s...it was like May or June. No matter, it was a great day for pictures and having a blast. Just so nice to be out of the office, right!

I've been blessed with some great families this weekend. One was the Ginter's (see post coming Tuesday) and the other are the Shaffer's. Lori, Mike and their adorable son Drew. This 3-year-old loved the camera, but not in a hamm or obnoxious way. He's just so darn cute! Come on, look at these pictures. Don't you just want to take him home, too!

We had a brilliant pumpkin picking at Johnson's Corner Farm in Medford, New Jersey just outside Philadelphia, PA, and not far from where I work in Cherry Hill at the Courier Post. (Also had the lead art and a lead story Sunday.)

Lori and Mike were perfect. They had fun. They laughed. They were patient, too...(Drew only liked the dirty pumpkins...lol)

This is just a sample of the great moments I'm proud to share with the Shaffer's. I hope to be around more to watch Drew grow up! Thanks again! Such a pleasure.

Come on...look at this face. Pretty darn cute!

Caught the rainbow!I'm digging this shadow!
No, it's not heaven. It's not Iowa either...
Loving the golden light in this spot!

Loving the fade away! Thanks so much guys. Had a great time!

Joe G

Classy Wedding Photography in New Hope, PA

2008-10-10T02:22:00.009-05:00

I had the pleasure of shooting a wedding with a buddy of mine, Craig Single, with Single Exposure Photography Sept. 28. OK, to be honest, it was wonderful not to be in charge and just be a second shooter!

But he had a slight issue with another photographer. So I filled in. Hey, it's the (good) photographer's code. I know he would be there for me. So one day after an 11-hour wedding in Baltimore (Yay Elizabeth and Scott), I was in New Hope for a glorious (slightly soggy) but still awesome day.

Seriously, the day turned out amazing, and the couple, Dana and BJ handled it like pros. I always tell my couples to stay happy and everything will work out. It did! Craig helped them plan a classy wedding in New Hope, at Holly Hedge Estate. Killer venue!

So congrats Dana & BJ. It was an honor being part of your day! Wonderful party, and that's my kind of wedding. Everyone had a blast!

Congrats!

Best,
Joe
(P.S. These are just my wide angles! So fun to experiment more!)

Pure Philadelphia Wedding Photojournalism with Jen & Julio

2008-10-03T01:04:00.012-05:00

WEDDING PHOTOJOURNALISM: This was a day of purity. Purity for us and the couple. So we do what we do best: capture fun wedding moments.

Jen and Julio are friends. OK, they're better than friends, they're great friends! Jen sang at our wedding, was a bridesmaid, oh, and, has been one of those dependable, there for you friends almost as long as Bec and I have been dating. AND I shot her brother's wedding during my first year of business (it seems so long ago.) And yes, some of you might remember them as the couple in front of the yellow wall who served as front image on my old business card!

(I can't believe I found this on my computer...)
So when Jen finally met this killer Latin guy named Julio, we started partying Puerto Rican-style. And did they have one bad as* party. Outside, gorgeous location at Strawberry Hollow Farms in Phoenixville. But forgive me, this all was preceeded by a moving ceremony at The Church of the Good Samaritan. I'm so proud of you both. We both are.

I hope you enjoy these shots for a life time, and I hope we're all part of 50-plus anniversary dates to come! Love you both!

A moment I'll cherish with Jen and her dad!

This little girl was perfect for Jen.Got to give a shout to Jen's long-term roommate Jonelle for keeping the day on track...
Yeah, possibly the best dress shot ever!And here's one of Julio being a big bab.., I mean, perfect groom...Seriously, these were real tears. Great moment for everyone!
Good Sam Church
At the farm

Guys kickin it
Yes, the animals appear to be kissing, and demonstrating to Julio how to get some...

Jen looking particularly hot! (Had to say it Jen!)
Jen can move it, move it...

The two are dancing pros. No, seriously...they're a sight on the dance floor (AKA grass). I wish I had them at all my weddings to get the party moving!

They love wine...NOW YOU know the real reason we adore them...

LOVE YOU BOTH!

Thinking outdoors? Think fall!

2008-09-27T09:26:00.012-05:00

We photographers love outdoor weddings. Give me a late afternoon ceremony with a few light, happy clouds cruising along the sky (sorry to sound like Bob Ross!), and I'm in heaven, baby. But there's a catch: Make that day in July or August and you've taken a page straight out of Dante's "Inferno."

Don't get me wrong. I love all my weddings. Each and everyone one is an absolute joy, and I wouldn't change a thing about any of them I've photographed. There are just a few
where I was bit sweatier at the end than others.

If you're thinking you want to hold your ceremony or reception, or both, outside, you might want to consider a date before May or after mid-September. Personally, I love fall weddings. This might be because my wedding was on a perfectly comfortable November day, but I like to think it has more to do with the season itself.

Fall brings such relief after weeks of getting scorched by that unforgiving July and August sun. The light is a little better, too. Summer afternoon light can look just like it feels, and it takes up more of the day. Autumn light is a little less severe, and with earlier sunsets, a wedding around 4 p.m. can take advantage of that delicious afternoon light and those awesome sunsets.

Stuart and Krista apparently channeled my brain when they planned their wedding. Theirs could not have been held on a better day -- perfect temperature, slight breeze. Robert Frost would have loved it. I certainly did. The climate was a perfect complement to the the relaxed, sunny couple. Plus I wasn't sweaty at the end!

These are a few photographs from their wedding showing that stellar, early fall day (OK, it was technically two days before the start of fall, but who's counting?). I also added a couple other images that just made me smile.

Wedding Photography Tip: Searching out the light for your wedding photographer

2008-09-23T10:59:00.004-05:00

Great light is so important to every photographer. That's really what makes the difference between an amateur and professional photographer -- light. And making the job easier for your photographer is choosing venues, rooms and other locations with great light. Probably the best room JPG Photography ever worked in for getting ready shots was at The National Museum of Women in the Arts. The light was incredible. And it's not just strong light. It was dramatic. What makes dramatic light. Well, I'm not exactly sure, other than to say you know it when you see it. But honestly, the room, and the condition it's in, makes the light dramatic or not.

So, if this room at the museum was cluttered and in shambles, this light would not have been worthless, but it's presence would not have been as appreciated.

When you choose your locations, look at the light. Try to find natural light. Just make sure the room isn't dark. This goes for hotel rooms, venues, and outdoor locations. We'll talk more about light throughout the year. But appreciate it, look for it, find it, and make sure you have it!

(Don't forget that the sun eventually sets, even on your wedding day, and if you're checking out a venue at 1 p.m., the same light won't be there at 8 p.m during your reception.)

Washington D.C. Wedding Photography at National Museum of Women in the Arts

2008-09-23T10:40:00.005-05:00

We had an incredible day as wedding photographers with Jenilee & Josh in Washington D.C. at the National Museum of Women in the Arts. I was honored to their photojournalist, but I did have an edge since I went to college with Josh as he was a Big Man on campus running for elected office and organizing community events like a machine.

Well the two of them had an amazing day, putting together a classy day in D.C. Everyone partied, everyone danced, everyone had to walk home because nobody was fit to drive!

Congrats you two! It is a pleasure and honor!

Great Bridal Expo, Philadelphia

2008-09-22T02:07:00.007-05:00

What a show, what a show, what a show! JPG Photography had a great, Great Bridal Expo in Philadelphia Sunday at the Sheraton Hotel, in Center City. (Sorry for the cheesy line.) But Bec and I had such a blast talking to couples about wedding photography and wedding photojournalism. We met 80 couples, and if you're one of them, please contact us again! We'd love to hear from you.

We're offering discounts as high as 15 percent to couples we met at the show. And everyone, just for saying they met us there, can get 5 percent off the total package. In this economy, everyone can use a little help, so don't forget to mention this!

Thanks again for making it a wonderful show for us. And how about that fashion show! Wow, great dresses and designs for '09! Let us know which was your favorite dress...

Philadelphia Sunset

2008-09-22T01:49:00.005-05:00

This is a wonderful shot of a Philadelphia Sunset I saw while driving home from a school board meeting in Camden last week. I love taken sunset shots. While there are many great ones, the ones you shot are always your favorites because they capture the spirit of that peace and harmony in the world that you witnessed. Remember, when taking sunset pictures, always shoot darker, and never use a flash...

OPRAH!

2008-09-04T03:16:00.005-05:00

It was a last minute event over the weekend but it was well worth it the time. I got to cover the one and only OPRAH Saturday. She was fantastic, and Rebecca, who is a huge fan, got to stand and hear her speak from the front row. We did not get to meet her, but I did get within about 18 inches of her. You'll see from my shots. I could have grabbed her tasteful yellow sandals right off her feet! Pretty sweet. And what her and long-time boyfriend Stedman Graham offered was amazing...you'll have to read the story to find out.

All of my images and the story, are courtesy of The Courier-Post:

The Story:

Oprah makes visit to Whitesboro memorable

By JOSEPH GIDJUNIS • Courier-Post Staff • August 31, 2008

MIDDLE TOWNSHIP — Oprah Winfrey and her longtime boyfriend, Stedman Graham, rode into rural Whitesboro's community festival Saturday as legends.

They left as heroes.

At least 500 people from across the region came to hear the Queen of Television speak at a reunion of Middle Township School District alumni and members of the Concerned Citizens of Whitesboro, a group dedicated to improving the small town.

Whitesboro is a tiny, rural community founded in 1901 as a settlement for African Americans leaving the South.

Graham, a native of the area and graduate of Middle Township schools, has been involved in many of the group's initiatives, including renovating public facilities and sports fields.

Winfrey commanded the podium with stories about the importance of voting, the necessity of education and the all-knowing spirit of Jesus.

Most of the crowd jumped to their feet and cheered Winfrey at least a dozen times, and even sang in unison a verse from "I Surrender All," an old gospel hymn. Then Winfrey offered a miracle of her own, pledging $1 million to local educational scholarships in the coming years. She left the first installment of $220,000.

"We grew up when getting straight A's didn't mean you were trying to act white, but you were trying to act right," Winfrey said to the crowd's cheers. "There is no greater chance for success than education."

Before she made the announcement, which brought several community members to tears, Winfrey complained at how society was allowing mediocrity to prevail, failing children and watching too many students fall through the cracks. Without education, she and Graham would not be where they are, she said.

She implored people to find the possible in the impossible, and strive for your dreams. Winfrey, who had just flown back from the Democratic National Convention in Denver, said they cannot fight and make change without voting, and of course, Illinois Sen. Barack Obama is the man for the job. But just the performing the act of voting would please her.

Winfrey emphasized that she is rarely political, but she has been compelled to act.

"But if you're not willing to stand up for what you believe in, then you can sit down and shut up," said Winfrey, who last gave a speech in the Cape May County town in 1998.

During the two-hour ceremony, several members of the community were honored, including Camden School District Superintendent B. LeFra Young, who is a product of Middle Township schools. Young gave a rousing speech, where she said she took the job in Camden because she saw the possibilities for greatness in the cash-strapped and tarnished city.

Community leaders declared the day in honor of Graham, and everyone thanked his mother, Mary Graham.

"It was a nice day. I liked it all," Mary Graham said after the presentations.

Rose Wynne, and her 21-year-old son, Jimmy, of Deptford said they have come to the festival for the past 10 years trying to see Winfrey because they're big fans, and Saturday's festivities were a great summer-ending treat.

The festivities continue through today.

Reach Joseph Gidjunis at (856) 486-2604 or jgidjunis@gannett.com

Europe, oh me oh my!

2008-09-02T04:18:00.008-05:00

We had a killer, needed, well-deserved, vacation FINALLY in August. Bec and I really lived it up with a cruise in the Eastern Mediterranean, hitting Italy (Rome to start) then Sicily and the Messina Port, Athens, Greece, Ephesus, Turkey and then Crete, Greece. We went with our families, which in itself is a story, but that's probably better to hear over a drink and some good food... Thought we'd share just a few with you...

Parthenon

Vatican Museum
Trevi Fountain
Cappella Sistina
Handsome guy in Athens

A real beauty hanging out on the Acropolis
Sicily

La Pieta

Ephesus, you know, like Ephesians from the Bible. Yay Paul...
A really old library! This city in Turkey was mad impressive. It had running water before most of the so-called great civilizations of the world...

Some random hot couple making out in Italy...they have such nerve! (P.S. our past couples will recognize OUR patented dip move.) Look at that distance on that horizontal plane.Sign to Virgin Mary's house where she is believed to have lived the final 8 or 9 years of her life.

Great light from our favorite room on the ship!The Crew. We call ourselves National Lampoon's Honeymoon Vacationers because, well this is twice in a row we've gone on a cruise, and both times, it's sort of been a honeymoon present for someone on the trip... (And yes, I physically took this shot and was in it...Wicked good!)

ON VACATION

2008-07-30T03:03:00.006-05:00

Hey all, Bec and I will be on vacation from July 31 to Aug. 11. We'll return, hopefully relaxed, and we hopefully haven't landed in jail after murdering any or all of the seven family members we're on vacation with!

But we'll happily be unreachable. If there is an emergency, contact Dan, dan@jpgphotography.com

To tie us over into August, I'm posting some of my submissions (in no particular order) for the latest WPJA competition. Enjoy!

Megan-Dan

2008-07-18T01:46:00.008-05:00

This might have been the best beach weather Bec and I ever seen in 4 years of beach weddings. Up in Rehoboth Beach, Del., Megan and Dan got married right in the heart of town, Memorial Day weekend. Gutsy. But WOW! What a great day! Hundreds of guests, the bluest, blue sky, I've had the good fortune to shoot under, and a couple that couldn't have been more relaxed, calm and hospitable to everyone! These two are so sweet, and they made everyone around them have good time! It was such a pleasure, and keep the DANCING DIPS coming. The men in this family know how to work it. Great day guys. It was our pleasure!

Best,
Bec & Joe

Proof Book

2008-07-18T00:38:00.004-05:00

We're proud to introduce new products we're offering in the latter part of 2008 and all of 2009. They're called -- Proof Books. Bec & I love these things because they're thin and easy to carry around and show everyone your wedding images. JPG Photography has always offered online viewing as an option for families to see wedding images anytime, anywhere. But not everyone has an internet connection. So until we all get a 3G (darn you Apple for ruling our brains) we thought it would be nice to have a smaller book option for our couples to carry their images, too. It's good to feel the images.

So, starting immediately, all couples ordering a 2009 wedding packages have a hardbound Proof Book included (standard in car talk) with their coverage, on top of online viewing and owning the personal copyright of their images. In addition, we're offering the cute, concise cousin, a softbound Proof Book, for engagement sessions. These puppies are great, and of course, our dog Gus, approves!

We know these are going to be great additions! And please note the very convincing shot with the nickel! I'm a dork (AKA sucker) when it comes to showing pictures with loose change. I'm like a bad infomercial, I know. But this helps give some perspective. Also, please ignore my ugly fingers in the hardbound Proof Book showcase. LOL. Let us know your thoughts!

AND FOR THE RECORD, these are NOT our albums. For them, please see our Album post from last September. Album Post

Best,
Bec & Joe

Kara-Mike

2008-07-18T00:24:00.006-05:00

Wow! OK, this wedding has some lifetime memories attached to it! Kara and Mike had a fantastic wedding in Maryland, and boy did they party. On the way, on the way back. Their limo bus ride was one of the craziest transportation experiences I've had in some time! All I'm going to say is WonderBread shirt! Enough said. Anyway, Kara and Mike are going to be together for a long time because they understand each other, and accept their partner's craziness, eh hem, Mike and his love of girl bands. But the dude can sing, so I won't talk. It was the perfect follow to Rachel and Jason, (Kara and Jason are sibs). Great wedding guys! So many moments! Honored to have been there.

Lynell & Mike in Va. Beach, Va.

2008-07-01T01:10:00.004-05:00

From almost the second Rebecca and I arrived, this wedding was the party to be at on the beach! This would not have been a good wedding to be at if you were a recovering alcoholic. The bar was open, and there was always a line. Now, all of this is said with respect for Lynell & Mike, a couple demanding their guests have a blast. Mike is a catering manager, so toss in some great entrees and appetizers, too. It was a tasty evening! The only thing left is the love, and the two of them showed how much they adore each other on the beach, on the dance floor and especially when they had some alone time. We're so proud of you both! What a great night!

Sheila-Jeff in Cape May, NJ

2008-07-01T00:10:00.003-05:00

Bringing families together isn't the easiest exercise, especially when you have kids involved. But Sheila and Jeff found a way to make it look easy. Jeff has three boys, and they all adore Sheila, and it showed. They had a beautiful day, and in a killer location in Cape May, NJ. Great job guys! So glad to be a part of it!

Christina & Jeff

2008-06-23T21:55:00.005-05:00

Wow, another great day in D.C. Christy & Jeff rocked it out in April. They combined traditions from both sides and had a killer day. See people, I'm not kidding. Make the day yours, and not some cookie-cutter replica, and you'll have a blast!

They wrote:
"Thank you so much for the pictures – we absolutely love them and have spent countless hours looking at them (over and over and over). You two are so talented at what you do in terms of pictures but also what you bring to the day. Thank you for capturing all of the events from the day. Now the hard part is picking the ones for an album!!
All the best,
Christy and Jeff"
Thank you both so much! You're going to be happy for a long time!

Rachel and Jason

2008-05-15T02:17:00.005-05:00

Our thanks and congrats go out to Rachel and Jason who helped us kick off 2008, and wow, did they set the bar high. Amazing weather in D.C., fantastic locations (Kennedy Center and the National Mall), and party after party! Now, I will admit that getting married on my alma mater's campus, The George Washington University, might be swaying my bias meter, but truly, they had a blast and so did the entire guest list. Congrats to you both. You made the day yours, and told your story.

Bec & Joe

On the MallInside the Kennedy Center
Perfect angels prior
The Processional

1st Dance

Outside Western Pres
The night was very much like this!
AND LIKE THIS!
Back at Western Pres
A killer moment Bec shot
Perfect kids

SUCCESS!

2008-05-07T08:34:00.002-05:00

Wow, what a month. JPG Photography is rolling!

We've had bridal shows in Delaware and Virginia. We've shot five weddings. And we're preparing for the always hectic summer rush. Oh yeah, and we moved!

The good news is that the transfer is complete. Bec & Joe have set up shop in Philadelphia, and by the end of May, we expect to have our first clients come into our studio and enjoy our work.

We're also getting back to customer service and checking in with the dozens of happy clients from the past. So we're offering our friends discounts on future work and unlimited gifts for referring friends who end up booking with us.

So, a few more weeks, and we'll be settled. Wish us Luck! And if you're a former client who's moved, send us your new address!

Best,
Joe

Moving...NO INTERNET...

2008-04-11T21:54:00.003-05:00

This is just a service reminder, that JPG Photography, (the Bec & Joe portion) are moving to Philadelphia this weekend. I'm told I may not have internet service until the middle of next week at the earliest. So please be patient with me if I don't return your e-mail or phone calls immediately. Thanks, wish us luck, oh yeah...keep us in your prayers too. Lots going on!

Best,
Joe

BIG NEWS! Moving...and staying the same

2008-04-01T01:18:00.006-05:00

Bec and I have some big news.

Some of you know that Rebecca and I have been married for a few years, but we haven't been able to live together. No, no, not like that! I mean, she has either been in graduate school in Virginia, or I have been in Maryland working at my newspaper as a reporter and photojournalist. Even after she earned her degree last May, she was hired as an Assistant Professor of English in Philadelphia at her alma mater, Eastern University in St. David's, PA. (It's near Villanova.)

Since then, I have been searching for journalism jobs which would get us closer together. I turned a few offers last fall because they weren't the right fit. But 10 days ago, I obtained a reporting and photojournalism position in New Jersey, at the Courier-Post, in Camden/Cherry Hill. The paper, about 80,000 circulation on Sunday, is the third largest in the Philadelphia Metro area by my calculation, only following the The Inquirer/Daily News and the Wilmington, Delaware News Journal. It's also three times the size of my current paper.

Being in Cherry Hill, the distance from my office to Bec's is 37 minutes! That's a tad closer than the 2 1/2 hours commute she had been making a few times each week.

Over the weekend, we found a place to call home ... and studio. It's in the East Falls section of Philly, right off Kelly Drive and next to Manyunk. It's a great 3 bedroom rowhome on Fisk Avenue, and we're going to be able to create a real home studio.

This is JPG Photography's 4th year of solo wedding business, and my 10th year of shooting, but this studio will be my first. We're going to make it cozy and workable. We want our clients to (eventually) come see us and meet our son, Gus, our favorite mini Shepard mix!

Below are some VERY QUICK photos of the house as we went through it today with family. We move in April 12. (PLEASE BE merciful on these photos. They are all literally, a single frame, boom, lets-move-on type shots.)

Since we just signed, we're still debating how to use it all, so if you have any ideas, let us know. Especially thoughts on our office, and how to make it homey for couples like yous.

****And, just so nobody is worried, this move for us does NOT mean a change for you. JPG Photography is staying the same. This has actually been part of my dream since I took on Dan as my partner back in late '05/'06. Both he and I travel up and down the Mid-Atlantic and call it home. Both of us have D.C. weddings, Baltimore and PA weddings. I'm still coming to Virginia Beach for couples. He'll see me in Philly. With our locations, however, we're trying to stay more to our own turf, and dedicate each other to a region. My location in Philadelphia will continue to be the hub, but both of us will meet couples in our homes, out for coffee or in the comfort of your home.

JPG Photography is still family. We do weddings because we love them. We sign up to participate because we still feel the joy and excitement that is inherent in the day. We don't tire of it. We relish it. We want couples who are going to have a blast and plan a party for the both the spirit (the ceremony) and body (the reception.) We know this will serve us and you better!

Best,
Bec & Joe

The soon-to-be office

The dining room (first angle)
The dining room (second angle) ** Notice the piano.
Kitchen
Back room between kitchen and yard (still debating how to best use this space.)
Yard for our Gus. Maybe an herb garden?
Master bedroom
One of the other two bedrooms
Do I really need to label this shot?
Basement (hopefully a game room.)

Building from a new Foundation

2008-03-11T17:15:00.010-05:00

As Joe mentioned, JPG went all cowboy recently and turned our wagons to Texas for an intense learning experience alongside some of the best photographers the Wild West (or East, North and South) has to offer. The Foundation Workshop -- brainchild of the amazing Huy Nguyen -- truly was an amazing opportunity to pick the brains of those who have had uncanny success behind the lens and to sharpen our own minds when it comes to capturing your memories. I wish I'd learned so much in college!

I spent two days amongst a herd of alpacas (hairy cousins of the llama) at a small farm just outside Dallas. The workshop had its share of frustration and anxiety on my part, but that's what learning is all about, right? And bottom line: it made me a better photographer. Ever since getting back my mind won't stop swirling with ideas and excitement, and I can't wait to start this wedding season.

Here's a few shots from my time with the critters. To see the full slideshow, including music and a brief, slightly awkward voiceover from me, go to www.fworkshopblog.com.

Kat & Matt

2008-03-11T08:49:00.005-05:00

I am honored to be a part of a relationship which blossomed in front of me in the newspaper world. I'm proud to say I helped things a long a little by helping Matt realize how much he loved Katherine even before he did!

I know Kat and Matt well from The Daily Times where Kat was my city reporter colleague in crime, and Matt the great photojournalist. Matt and I have even shot together a few times.

But Sunday was their day to be stars with an engagement party celebrating their love. And together, they're going to be an amazing couple. Congrats to you both! I'm so proud of you!

P.S. Thanks for loving the pix on the cake and wine bottle! Glad to be a part of your lives!

FW

2008-03-11T07:43:00.003-05:00

WOW! What an experience, again. I always have a blast, and I come back more confident and ready to shoot! Here's my slideshow, courtesy of the wonderful and amazing HUY and his Foundation Workshop, www.fworkshop.com.

Thanks for another experience I won't forget!

www.fworkshop.com/joeg.mov

Theresa-Scott in NYC

2008-03-11T07:33:00.005-05:00

OK, so reaping the benefits of my FW trip first are Theresa and Scott. Their wedding is this June in Delaware, but they live in NYC, next to the always hoppin Union Square. We had a blast!

And, so did they!...
"Joe, those pictures are beautiful!! We love them!!! You guys are amazing and if anyone ever asks for a photographer I am sending them straight to you! I cannot believe that you guys did that so quickly- we were just so happy with what a great job you! Anyway, thank you so so so much for everything, we cant wait for the wedding!!!
Theresa"

Family and friends can go onto Pictage, www.pictage.com, and see them all...

JPG heads West

2008-02-25T01:35:00.002-05:00

Joe and Dan have headed out to the wilds of Texas for a few days of intense training. We're working alongside some of the best photojournalists in the country to hone our skills. Check out the workshop Web site here: www.fworkshop.com

There's also a blog here: http://fwforum.blogspot.com/

If you need to get in touch with us, we'll be checking our e-mail as often as possible, but considering the days at the Foundation Workshop run well into the wee hours of the morning, we might not get back to you immediately. We'll be back in town this weekend, recharged and ready for another amazing wedding season.

If you need to reach Joe immediately, call him on his cell phone (215) 962-6411. Likewise, Dan can be contacted at (757) 375-3409.

Michelle Obama in Maryland

2008-02-14T01:03:00.003-05:00

I know these are a little late, but I wanted to share some fun stuff I shot of Michelle Obama when she came to Maryland Monday. She spoke at the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore. I wrote about the story for my newspaper, search "Gidjunis" at www.DelmarvaNOW.com.

She spoke well. As I describe, it was high on inspiration, although low on substance. The Obamas are inspirational for sure, but their speeches are still lacking on policy specifics. I, as a reporter, of course have no opinion. LOL! But I did vote Tuesday. I hope you all do your civic duty too!

I shot these. She got the crowd going!

Coming to Wilmington

2008-02-11T05:42:00.000-05:00

JPG Photography is heading to Wilmington this weekend for the Upstate Bridal show. Now, be fair if you see us, we've NEVER done a bridal show before. I know, I know, shame on me.

Even when Rebecca and I were planning our own wedding, we knew so many vendors that we didn't need to meet a lot of people, and we skipping the fairs.

But for any couple who wants to support us/meet up, we'd love to see there: Delaware Today and Delaware Bride's 18th Annual Bridal Show

If you have any thoughts too about Bridal Fairs/Shows, you know, the do's and do not's, let me know please...We're going in kind of blind. We've signed up for the Downstate show too later this year.

We have a decent set up thanks to our former client Jhoanna (Gomez) Fernandez. She put together killer postcard and banner designs for us. Way to go Jho!

Yes, at her wedding, it was hi Joe and hi Jho ... well it was funny at the time.

Wish us luck!

Best,
Joe

WPJA selections

2008-02-02T21:23:00.000-05:00

Some of latest submissions to the Wedding Photojournalist Association contest:

Wish me luck!

Best way to end the year

2007-12-30T16:07:00.000-05:00

I shot my brother-in-law's wedding Saturday, and it was amazing! Bec and I love his new partner Shelly, and we're so proud of them both. It was a beautiful day, it was about them, and they customized it to make it special and their own day. No copy cats here. We couldn't be happier for you Shelly and John! Love, Bec & Joe

Oh, and you have to know Matthew to realize that these two frames were BACK-TO-BACK in less than 5 seconds a part...God bless him! Love you all! Congrats! What a great way to end 2007!

E-mail FINE!

2007-12-30T15:13:00.000-05:00

Sorry everyone. A few of you have been e-mailing JPG Photography in a few places as instructed in case our e-mail was down. Whoops...holidays got so hectic, I forget to say everything was cool. Our e-mail was only down for 48 hours, and I just forgot. My bad.

So we are in contact with everyone. If for some reason, however, you have not heard back from us, please e-mail us again. We are aware of a few issues that took place during the changeover, and we believe we have resolved everything. But if you haven't heard from us, send us another e-mail.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Joe

New WEB SITE up; E-mail down

2007-12-04T09:41:00.000-05:00

To all of our wonderful clients and families, I'm proud to say that JPG Photography is about to enter it's fourth year, and we are starting off early with a big bang -- A new Web site!

We are showcasing more of our work, and more of our photographers! It's a great day!

But, in the transition, which could last until Wednesday, our e-mail systems are down. So, if you are trying to e-mail me at jpg@jpgphotography.com or dan@jpgphotography.com, the e-mails ARE NOT coming through.

I encourage everybody to e-mail me personally at jgidjunis@gmail.com, in the meantime. I'll distribute the information.

Thanks again, and please, tell us what you think!

This testimonial made Rebecca cry

2007-11-08T04:53:00.000-05:00

No really, this is a good thing. First, congrats to Colleen and Jake for their partnership and sealing it on Aug. 18. We got them their images last month, and they were thrilled! So were we.

We've had a series of great couple's since June and no issues. Really awesome. Well Colleen and Jake said they would write something for us. When they sent it to us, Rebecca cried. I was moved. And what Rebecca and I said was..."They get it!" It gave us such joy to realize we're touching people as much as they touch us! Thanks guys!

"From start to finish, our experience with JPG Photography was not only professional, but extraordinarily personal. We had spent quite a bit of time meeting with various photographers, but we often felt that they were trying to fit us into their customer mold rather than being flexible with our needs and desires. We had just about given up hope when I came across a JPG’s award winning photo on the Wedding Photojournalist Association website (wpja.org). And, from my first conversation with Joe, I could tell he was different. He listened to what we wanted, asked questions about wedding details, was willing to travel out of state for our event, and was candid with his opinions without ever being pushy. He even worked with our personal budget to help us create a package that was all the things we wanted (and nothing we didn’t)! As the big day drew closer and planning the wedding details was nearly making me dizzy; Joe was always available and walking us through the process.

When the wedding day arrived, I became convinced that there is not a better wedding photographer out there! It wasn’t long after Joe and Rebecca walked through the door that I had already forgotten their presence. This was a relief to me, because I had been a little concerned that the photojournalistic style would make me feel like a celebrity victim of the paparazzi! Their relaxed manner and quiet presence allowed for some amazingly authentic candid shots of the wedding party, my family, and guests. And, when it came time for formal shots, Joe and Rebecca were able to quickly direct large groups while also being patient enough to get the perfect shot! One of our favorite moments from the day was when the two of us slipped away with Joe for the personal shots. He somehow made the time intimate, and we were finally able to be "alone" together (at least it felt like it!) and reflect on what the day was really about. When we got to finally see all of our photos -- we were amazed! The moments and memories that JPG Photography was able to capture are truly irreplaceable. We could not be happier with Joe’s results!

I could not more highly recommend JPG Photography for special event photography. They went far beyond our expectations while still allowing our day to feel personal, relaxed, and authentic. A dream come true!!"

New JPG Photographer...well, subject

2007-11-08T04:43:00.000-05:00

After years of debate and desire, Rebecca and I decided to add a member of our family. We have been searching for dogs for a few months, and we came across Mutt at the Whimsical Animal Rescue in Seaford, Del. When the owner found him, he was living on his own in an abandoned and dilapidated apartment. They thought he was five weeks old. Turned out, he was 7 months! Tammy at WAR (yes, odd acronym) has taken great care of him, and we adopted Mutt on Monday.

Now, Bec and I aren't thrilled with the name, although he responds to it. So we're going to trial, and some error, on names, but we think he is liking Gus! He's just beautiful, and everyone is loving him. He hasn't barked once since he's been with us and he cuddles with everyone.

Please wish us luck with our child ... OK, while many of our couples are moving onto children, we're taking it a bit slower. But this IS a big step for me because I've never had a dog. My whole life, I've played with my friend's canines, but I never had one for me. Well, now I'm doing it. So, I'll also take tips too...

My fourth USA Today piece

2007-11-08T04:29:00.000-05:00

I wanted to offer a quick update on the newspaper side of business. My fourth USA Today piece came out Monday. It's still online at USA Today's Web site, just search for Gidjunis, or click the link above.

I've had a couple other pics in The Baltimore Sun too:

The first is of Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley discussing his massive reform plan to balance the state's budget. The second is of Maryland Attorney General who came to the poultry-heavy Eastern Shore and told Perdue and other chicken-industry reps that farmers need tougher penalties and enforcement.

In 10-11-07 Post

2007-10-11T06:09:00.000-05:00

I've had some pretty good press lately. OK, that's funny for me and to most of you who know that I'm in the Salisbury, Md. newspaper every day, but when I get in the national papers, it's a bigger deal. For those who see The Washington Post, and of course, you can check it out online at www.washingtonpost.com, I've been given a huge color image of Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley while he was on the Eastern Shore Wednesday. It's on B2. Now I didn't write this story, but my version of the story is online at www.delmarvanow.com. I'll check out other papers across Maryland today because I uploaded a few other images. This one just had the nicest color. If anyone picks up The Baltimore Sun, let me know if you see anything today.

Thanks!
Joe

WPJA award for kids being kids!

2007-09-24T02:09:00.000-05:00

I was honored with my third Wedding Photojournalist Association award this week with a 9th place for Kids being kids.

I have to offer a special shout out to Sindi and Brad who got married in June. I hope you guys are doing well. Thanks so much for the tounge...from you and the kids!

Best,
Joe

JPG Photography Album FAQs

2007-09-16T15:04:00.000-05:00

We've been getting a lot of questions about our albums lately, and while I was hoping to save the full explanation for a JPG Photography Web site redesign, (which should be coming quite soon), I think it's important to take care of some answers now.

I think the biggest confusion is visualizing a professional wedding album. These are NOT your parent's wedding albums. They use the latest digital printing and design technology to create a magazine-style design on archival materials.

First of all, JPG Photography does not do its albums ourselves, locally or through Pictage. Many of our clients may notice that Pictage, which hosts your wedding images, creates their own albums, and may offer you to make their own. These albums on Pictage are good quality, and long lasting, but they're not top of the line, in our opinion.

My wife, Rebecca, is also a long-time Creative Memories scrapbooker. She didn't understand spending hundreds of dollars on albums until she saw the ones we use now. Now she completely understands why they're sooo expensive. But top of the line costs money.

The company we've found -- and we've looked around the world -- which offers the best product, for the most reasonable price, is Laguna, a California-based company. They're Web site is www.albumdesigners.com.

They print on the Durst Lambda, the Rolls Royce of digital laser imagers.

We have had a perfect two-plus year relationship with them, and we've only had one bad album. When we told them about the smudges on the cover, they replaced the ENTIRE book for free. This is a company that doesn't skimp on with quality.

Now, let me explain some of the differences between these and self-publishing houses:
1. These cover are several millimeters thick, as are the pages they print on. The cover is leather, or something elegant based on your preferences. They offer cover styles, cover colors, page edge colors and imprinting. ((The cover is twice the thickness of this dime. The pages are thicker too!))

2. The book feels good in your hand. It has weight to it. It's going to last!

3. The designs are spectacular. You can check out some of designs on their Web site, but you can see some below from a recent couple, Beth & Nate. I want to thank them for being awesome, oh and congrats because we recently found out they're pregnant with their first child!

If you have any questions, always feel free to ask, but as you can see, we go with the best. And we swear by them so much, Rebecca and I had OUR WEDDING ALBUM printed by them too!

Best,
Joe

USA Today Front Page

2007-08-24T08:47:00.000-05:00

OK all, this is just too exciting to skip. Many of you know about my other job as a daily reporter in Salisbury, Md. I also serve as USA Today's Maryland correspondent.

Well, today, Friday Aug 24., my first national front page story is in USA Today. So if you can, check it out, please do.

Hundreds of phone calls and interviewing about three dozen people, finally, the story is in, and the editors gave it 1A placement. It's a huge deal.

Enjoy! Image courtesy, USA Today.

Nadine & Jeff - Why you block out time

2007-08-08T02:44:00.000-05:00

Nadine and Jeff,

First, congratulations! Nadine, I met you the day of, and you were wonderful every second of the day. Jeff, you're quite lucky, because Nadine was wonderful every second of the day! No, Jeff was great too. Actually, they are extraordinarily kind people who ensured everyone had a blast. Thanks so much for letting us be a part of your day. Now, Nadine and Jeff did several things different from the pack, and I want to show how it fit them and made their day better.

What I was truly grateful for is the nearly 3 hours of blocked out time in between to drive from Arlington to Old Town Alexandria, spend two hours having fun, and then driving back. For those not around the DC area, we figured 30-45 minutes one-way for the drive alone. Surprisingly, we hit no traffic, and it only took us about 20-25 minutes each way. So this left more time to relax and take great pictures around the area at different locations.

Here are a few:

The Car ride over
Along the Potomac
Using the Car
And using the car

Now I know not everyone can do this. But when you have time, your chances for a real gem dramatically improve. (That and trust in your photographer.) This painter graciously agreed to let Nadine and Jeff be her subjects for a few minutes! This is also one of those rare, but perfect spots where color and black/white are acceptable.

I'm going to cherish this moment. I love it! And it captured their feeling too right after the wedding.

This post isn't meant to convince couples to change their schedule. But, take note that in the 15 minutes some couples allocate, you can't experiment or take many risks. We took LOTS of risks. Not all worked. But so many did! I recommend couples think of a spot away from the church or reception spot for another location. I recommend couples block off time for special shots. Maybe this means doing more things early. Maybe this means pushing the reception back a little or not making any of the cocktail hour. But each couple should think about what they want, and how important these fun/post-ceremony shots are.

Here's two more from the day:

The dreaded LIST

2007-07-31T11:31:00.000-05:00

I know I'm behind on tips, but this is certainly warranted right away. The dreaded list, otherwise known as the formal shots you want of you, your spouse and your family and friends.

I want to thank Faye and Keith from California for being an amazing couple July 21 in Va. Beach. What they did was great. They they illustrate why my recommendations work.

What I recommend, and what happened. And this is the same advice I give everyone:

We are a photojournalism studio. We let the day flow. We know formal pictures are important, but they should not dominate the day. Post-ceremoney, we take about 1o shots, and try to never go over 15. Why? Shots take 2-3 minutes each. Sure, a shot of the bride and groom takes a minute, but a shot with grandma, uncle Bob and aunt Rita and the bride and groom takes 2. Then add in more people -- getting them to the altar and posed properly, takes 3 minutes. It averages out.

We will take as many formals as you want, but we recommend that you limit the shots. And here's the reason why: You get tired. You get sick of pictures. You, the bride and/or groom are standing in the same spot while everyone else has to maneuver. Your jaw starts to hurt. Seriously, it does after so many frames.

So, we work to minimize the post-ceremony shots by adding time during the getting ready shots to get each side's family beforehand. Any shots we can't fit, we move to the reception.

Now, honestly, I take a couple of shots beforehand, about 10 or so after the ceremony, and another couple at the reception. This is pretty typical, and it works well, so long as there is time scheduled for it all.

Faye and Keith put together a list of shots six pages long for me on July 18, a few days prior to the wedding. It actually wasn't as astronomically bad as it sounded. But I called to explain what I wrote above. And then I gave this piece of advice:

How many times do the same family members need to be in the pictures? Do parents need to be in multiple shots, sometimes yes. But do grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and other friends need to be in two or three pictures?

Will your friends and family want a shot of your wedding? Of course. But do you think they're going to buy two or three formals? Likely, they're only going to need one. So just put them in one picture.

Also, Faye and Keith didn't do this, but other couples have forgotten to put their wife or husband in the shots with them. REMEMBER, you two are getting married. You BOTH should be in EVERY FORMAL SHOT TOGETHER. Maybe one or two a part, but really, be there together.

So Faye and Keith took my advice and narrowed down the list. We still had shots before, after and during the reception.

But again, and time after time, this happens, nobody wants to have formals at the reception. You want to have fun, and drink and eat. So that's what you should do. Faye and Keith scrapped all four reception formals. And they have no regrets. They had a blast instead!

Think about this when you're making your list. And do the following:
1. Formals are must-have shots. Not an excuse to get a formal of every person you ever met.
2. Include both of you in the shots (except beforehand getting ready if you're remaining traditional.)
3. List the shots with every person's name in the shot. If there are 2 people, or 20 people, put all of their names in. Realize that anything over 10 people takes about 4 minutes to set up and take.
4. Think, do we really need this shot, or will the people in it really buy it?
5. Can we combine our shots? Can you put both families together for one group shot? Can my siblings and your siblings be in it together, etc. This speeds things up.
6. Is my jaw ready for this?
7. Did we play accordingly? If you have a one-hour cocktail hour immediately after the ceremony, we need 30 minutes for 10 formals, and 30 minutes for fun shots.
8. TELL EVERYONE on the list to be around for formals. Don't let them leave before being in the shot.
9. If possible, have a close friend or relative stick around to help round the families up for the shots. This too makes things run much faster!

OK, hope that made sense! Enjoy!

Hilary and Michael

2007-07-15T13:35:00.000-05:00

Besides being madly in love with each other, Hilary and Michael, put together a very classy wedding for more than 100 May 12. They did a bunch of things right in my book like leaving lots of time beforehand for getting ready shots. They served fantastic food throughout the reception. They even had a great band play so nearly everybody danced at some point. The candles, the lighting, the dress. Really well done! Everyone had a blast. And look at Michael's girls! They're perfect in these! Hilary is so good with them too!

They had some help with arrangements from Paige Cortes, a new coordinator in D.C. If anyone is looking for a good coordinator, let me know and I'll get you in touch with Paige. I don't like working with many coordinators, but she knows to make it about the couple, and not her!

Nicole & Tom

2007-07-15T13:23:00.000-05:00

Nicole & Tom took advantage of Virginia Beach's sand May 5 to celebrate their day! They had a beautiful beach wedding, and something they did that worked perfectly with the photography, was having Tom also wear white. Not all guys can pull it off (me for one) but Tom and the guys looked great against the sand. You could tell they really thought about their colors, from the clothes to the flowers and of course the decorations. They had a great day, and we were honored to be a part of it! Enjoy you two! We had a blast!

Rene and Joe

2007-07-09T11:41:00.001-05:00

Ahh, Rene and Joe. Another classy wedding to keep the season's mojo going. They had their reception a few blocks away from Elaine and Kit, at the infamous Cavalier! Essentially, they rocked the house with a cute church, lots of great time in between on the beach and then solid dancing at The Cavalier. They are tremendously good for each other, and I'm so proud to have been a part of their day.

And I have to send this big shout out to my wife, Rebecca, who has been kicking major tail lately with her shots and editing. She is now proficient enough to edit the shots you see here, and shoot this to help diversify the day. I have to admit it, her shot of Rene and Joe's church exit is better than mine. I've trained her so well! Of course, she'd say, she's trained me so well, but I say tomato, she says tomata...kind of thing!

Oh, and you gotta love the bars! Any time a couple can do this on their wedding day, you know they're ready to party! Love the passion guys!

Elaine and Kit

2007-07-09T11:31:00.001-05:00

Elaine and Kit really started off the hectic spring schedule well. They got married at a great spot in Virginia Beach, with cool light and a nice breeze. Most of you know that I love to celebrate our armed service personnel, and Kit is in the military. I want to thank him for his service, and for putting the pressure on me. See, he's a photojournalist too, and we were able to get some great shots of him having a blast with his very sweet partner Elaine. The two of them make an excellent couple, and they had some wild dancing at the end of the night. It's been fantastic to work with them. You can tell they know how to have a good time! And I had to throw in the shot of them passing the people at the pool. How many couple's let me do that!!!

Personal Accomplishments

2007-07-09T11:22:00.000-05:00

WOW, what a spring. As if JPG Photography couldn't get any busier with seven weddings in seven weeks for me, and another four for Dan in that same time, we've had personal accomplishments and responsibilities to contend with.

As you all know, I work for a daily newspaper in Maryland, The Daily Times. Well, if you're wondering why I've been behind, it's because my newspaper, which is owned by Gannett, (it publishes USA Today) named me USA Today's Maryland Correspondent May 1.

On top of my regular duties, I have to help USA Today reporters with news from Maryland, and I get to write a few stories myself. I've been published twice already, with a story and a picture each time, and I'm working on my third right now. I've also been given the reigns of a political blog for the region, Shore Politics, at www.delmarvaNOW.com.

I also received five writing awards from my state's joint journalism body, including one from the Associated Press for investigative reporting. I had my first picture published in The Washington Post in late June too. It was a shot of Md. Gov. Martin O'Malley with local officials, in full color, and it ran across three or four columns. That's journalism talk for a medium-large size picture. That's a cool feeling!

Dan also earned his share of awards from the Virginia Press Association. He's covering stories with national interest, but with a local feel, and readers are loving them, along with his pictures. And he's doing all of this while living with his in-laws because he and his wife are building a new house in Suffolk, Va.

So, thank you all of your patience with the Blog. It's been an eventful three months.

Holly and Andy

2007-07-09T06:32:00.000-05:00

The murky weather and a less-than-tidy room for the bride to get dressed in notwithstanding, Holly and Andy's wedding went off without a hitch. This was a unique wedding for me since Holly's family has known my wife since, well, forever, and it was an honor for me to have the chance to shoot it.

Here are a few teaser shots from the day. The full package of photos should be through the editing process soon. Holly and Andy's friends and family can go ahead and register at www.pictage.com (don't worry, it's free) so they can receive an e-mail notice when the pictures are up. All you have to do is go to Pictage and search for the Goodman-Bennett wedding. The rest is self explanatory.

- Dan

Damp, but delightful

2007-05-18T15:04:00.000-05:00

My string of weather-stricken weddings continues. Kate and Mike were a couple of the most recent victims, but they didn't seem to mind. In fact, they were great sports about the dreary skies; anyone planning to get married in the spring -- those April showers always carry into May -- should take a page from their book and be ready to roll with the punches, err ... clouds, as it were. We photographers can control a lot of things, but alas, the manufacturers have yet to build a camera capable of meteorological manipulation. So on with the show!

Kate and Mike Carpenter chose to get married at a church near the University of Virginia since they're both Cavaliers, and their reception was in the Alumni House just down the street. It's a beautiful campus with so many fantastic places to shoot -- when there's not a monsoon, that is.

All in all, everyone seemed to truly enjoy themselves, including the photographers, and all the relatives and guests were a dream to work with.

The dancing was enthusiastic to say the least ... check out the joint articulation on this next shot. As much as I talk to folks about my years as a college athlete, I can never boast about being able to do this without hurting something.

There'll be plenty more shots like these once we've finished the editing process, but I hope those tide you over in the meantime.

For Kate and Mike's friends and family, the edits will be posted to www.pictage.com. If you want to go ahead and register there (it's free), you'll get an email notice when the images go up. All you have to do when you're on the home page is use the search box to look up "Kate Ashford" or "Mike Carpenter." That'll pull up there listing, and ten it will ask for the pass code, which is this: 050507. Easy enough, right? Enjoy!

Shelly-John Engagement

2007-05-05T00:11:00.000-05:00

OK, I have a small confession to make. I love my brother-in-law. Yeah, weird. I know. You might also notice a resemblance of him to the lead singer in Saline. Well, that's because HE IS the lead singer of Saline, the excellent band who does all of JPG Photography's music!

John Messner is one of those singers who's so talented that everyone in a room doesn't move, fidget or sneeze. And now he has found his love, Shelly! These two can't get much cuter. They've been together for several years, and they rekindled a friendship after a few years of separation. They met in their teens as fellow campers. Yes...campers. Rebecca, my wife, actually had Shelly as a camper one summer when she was acting as a counselor. The little things!

They are creating this theme with board games and family-centered activites for their guests, and we started getting it all together during a shoot in central-Pa. last month. It's going to be a blast!

We're so proud to add you to the family Shelly! I'm psyched about shooting your wedding. Thanks so much for this honor!

Featured on WedPix!

2007-05-04T22:31:00.000-05:00

JPG Photography has earned the honor of being featured in this month's issue of Wedpix! Wedpix, www.wedpix.com, is the online magazine for the Wedding Photojournalist Association.

I was contacted about 5 weeks ago about being interviewed about Web site music. I was then interviewed, and now the article is up. The writer did a fantastic job.

I spoke about my relationship with Saline, a Christian-rock band based out of Pennsylvania. I talked about how our relationship formed, and how I love their sound for the Web site. JPG Photography has exclusively used Saline music for the past 18 months, and we continue to add new tracks. I've contracted with Saline to complete another track for me soon, and, as Paris Hilton would say from Jail, It's Hott!

Anyway, let me know what you think of the story and our music. Check out the article too:

http://www.wedpix.com/articles/010/music-on-wedding-photographer-web-sites/

Best,
Joe

Words from a Hokie

2007-04-20T17:18:00.001-05:00

I want to thank Josh Clowers for taking a few moments to share his thoughts and emotions during this historic tragedy. Please spend some time reading and thinking about his words and what it means to be a Virginia Tech Hokie. If anyone would like to respond on this BLOG, or send any private thoughts or messages to him or his family, please e-mail me. His fiancee is Beth. They're getting married in September.

""As far as what happened at Virginia Tech, it's difficult for me to adequately speak about it. I know how hard it's been for me, and I'm not even there anymore. I can't imagine how much worse it was to actually have been to be in the middle of it. My mom and dad graduated from Tech -- I graduated from Tech -- my sister is a senior there now, due to graduate in about 3 weeks. Beth's dad and sister both graduated from Tech, too. And the list goes on for my extended family and friends. So, it's obviously very close to me...

What I do know, though, is that a lot of people didn't understand Hokies before this all happened. It's impossible for someone who's never been on campus, or never been to one of our football games, or never just immersed in what Hokies are like, to really "get it." It felt to me that the overwhelming majority of the media came to Blacksburg trying to find fodder for pre-fab storylines -- they wanted to find students that were angry at the police and the administration, or scared, and who just wanted to leave forever and forget that the place ever existed. But, what they found in Blacksburg, beneath the shock and mourning, was a tremendous pride and love that Virginia Tech students, faculty and alum have for their school and their community. We honored our victims and our heroes, rather than "made for a good story."

We are so proud of our school and the students, and that pride has shown up again and again in the wake of these recent events. In a lot of ways, even after we've left, Blacksburg is our home, and the Virginia Tech community is a part of our family. And, tragedy does not break a family or a community apart -- I think it's something that has brought us closer together.

I also know that I've never been prouder to be a Hokie than when I saw the drill field overflowing with candles. The chants of "LET'S GO HOKIES!" that echoed all over campus -- we all felt that, no matter where we were. That's kind of what Hokies do best, though -- tailgating, football, and long-past-borderline-obnoxious school spirit. And, in that singular expression of pride and honor, our battle cry that screams "YOU CANNOT BEAT US," the Hokie Nation found some small comfort and solace, and most importantly, unity. Frank Beamer, our head football coach, summed it up best when he said "If I know anything about Hokies, we will become stronger, tighter, together."

While pride and love has held us together, the response and support from people around the world has been what has held us up. I talked to my sister last night. She and her roommate were going to Charlotte to just try and catch their breath a little bit. They had their VT flags flying out of their car windows, and they had hardly stepped out of her car before the bellhops at her hotel had hugged them, told them about how sorry they were, and given them gift cards for free food and massages from the hotel. And, since they've been there, everyone has been so gracious and supportive, and no one has let them pay for anything -- food, drinks -- they even got job offers. They also happened to run into Michael Jordan at their hotel, who hugged them both, expressing his condolences.

And, that's not even to mention the extraordinary support from other individuals, groups and campuses across the world -- each of them declaring genuinely that "We are all Hokies today" -- especially from the students at UVa, our in-state rival. For people around the world to be wearing burnt orange and chicago maroon today -- as trivial as it might sound, I can't find words to express what those things mean, and how it has helped to give Hokies everywhere, but particularly the students, the strength to stand up.

However, nothing can truly remedy this tragedy or the incalculable impact it has had on the lives of the victims, their families, and their friends. The killer's acts were so inhuman, and he himself so lacked human characteristics, that it is impossible to rationalize or understand what he did. The best we can do is to offer our support and prayers to the victims and their loved ones just as we would for our own family, to do whatever we can to carry on and honor their memory, and to make them as proud as we are that they are Hokies. With what help we can give -- maybe they can find some semblance of peace, knowing that the entire Hokie Nation, and now the entire world, is behind them, remembering them, and honoring them.

That's really all I have to say about it. I guess I could also throw in that it was entirely inappropriate and unnecessary to put out those pictures/videos from the package that the killer sent. Also, as usual, the Westboro Baptist Church/Fred Phelps "protesting" at the funerals of victims is about as morally reprehensible as anything I can think of, and I am pretty sure there is a special layer of Hell reserved to deal with that whole situation.

Ok, I'm really done now.""

Small world, enormous tragedy

2007-04-18T19:53:00.000-05:00

There's little I can say about Monday's atrocity that hasn't already been said. We all know by now that what transpired was beyond horrific, beyond shocking, and I've no light to shed on how or why someone could come to that.

It astonishes me, though, how close it came to so many people. It seems everyone either went to Tech or knows someone who does. I'm in the second group.

My buddy Charlie was a groomsmen at my wedding. He's younger than me by a couple years and is still in school -- at Virginia Tech -- finishing off his degree in industrial engineering. Yep, engineering. Charlie had class that morning; luckily, he skipped it. But for a few moments I shared the terror of uncertainty with so many others. He didn't answer when I first called, and while I knew the odds were he was O.K., it's amazing what the brain can do in a couple of minutes. Trying work when you're wondering if one of your best friends is alive is beyond difficult. Charlie rang me up a few minutes later, and I nearly lost it.

Trying to analyze what would push someone so far as to carry out what happened is beyond my abilities, and I'm not going weigh in on the political and cultural parsing that's started up over the past week. But I will say that I envy the Hokies.

In the midst of unspeakable pain, the Tech community came together like few other groups I've ever seen. The river of support pouring from each student, teacher and alumni amazed me. People I never knew were Hokies called up the newspaper where I work to express their support. It's an enviable thing despite the tragic circumstances, and it left much of the state in awe.

Could more have been done to prevent what took place? Maybe. Will we learn something from it than can head off future tragedies? Hopefully. Is the Hokie Nation stronger because of its pain? Definitely.

I think Virginia Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling summed it up well at a recent speech in Wakefield:
"My friends, we are Virginians, and today, we are all Hokies."

- Dan

VT Tragedy, call for thoughts and comments

2007-04-18T12:32:00.000-05:00

(image courtesy, The Virginian-Pilot)
To the entire JPG Photography community:

The news of tragic incident in Blacksburg has now touched the entire world. This senseless act is unfortunately a history making event, one that will be with the country for days, months and years.

The good news is that people and organizations are coming together and will work to correct and prevent similar future incidents from happening again. Simultaneously, we realize that the insane free will of one can ruin the lives of many. We hope that reforms are put in place to prevent the ease for this one gunman to carry out his crimes.

In this awful time, Dan and I offer our prayers to the friends and family of the victims, students, alumni and community of Virginia Tech.

We also are asking for your prayers, thoughts and patience. While Dan and I are both fortunate to not have lost anyone close to us, as journalists, we are now interviewing the friends and family of the deceased.

As many of you know, Dan and I met in Smithfield, Virginia, and one of the 30 student victims, Nicole White, 20, graduated from Smithfield High School in 2004. Another one of the wounded also came from Smithfield. Dan has spent time interviewing family and friends for The Smithfield Times. I also will be conducting follow-up coverage for my newspaper in Maryland.

We have friends who are photographers and clients across Virginia and near Blacksburg too. One client graduated from VT, and our prayers go out to him and his family too. We're with you Beth and Josh, who are scheduled to marry this September.

To grieve for the victims, as well as friends and family of VT, we will be posting messages of our experiences on our BLOG: jpgphotography.blogspot.com. WE INVITE you, or anyone you know, who has a message or story they would like to share to contact us. We are looking to share stories and help because even our tiny community can overcome the tremendous pain and sorrow that the entire country is feeling.

Thank you for your time.

God Bless!

Joe And Dan