Downtown Disney...was a blast

Forgot to mention yesterday we had a blast just taking our kids to downtown Disney with their cousins. We had the (pleasure) of being accompanied by one of my favorite sister-in-laws (pays me to say that) visiting from the ATL!. Her kids are REALLY cute, kind and filled with love. Ck out the look my my nieces face when she found out hot dogs were the meal of the day.

DTD as we refer to it is a nice way to spend a few hours w/o the huge expense and long lines at the "real" Disney this time of the year. 

I`m not sure what it is but put 2 boys w/ Dinosaurs and get have a recipe for FUN!. My Daughter on the other hand is a real girl who LOVES and I do mean LOVES princesses. As a matter of fact she changes princess outfits 2 to 3 times A DAY!. Then of course she needs to have her nails done to match each dress...LOL.

Disney is a magical place and every time we go I try to capture there enthusiasm and just the joy on there faces. It`s what keeps my heart beating.

Till next yr!

Scott

Christmas Morning ROCKS!!!!

I`m a little late with this posting as a matter of fact make that several postings. One of my news resolutions is to blog more and on time!... is it to ealry to say that might be one of the 1st that gets scratched off my list.

Anyway just a couple of my (adorable) kids. They were stoked w/all there presents and Raquel (my beautiful wife) were stoked to see there joy!!!

Merry Christmas and have a safe new yr. will blog you more in the new yr...I hope!

SC

Happy Birthday Jerome at Luxautica

This was a special event for Elizabeth and Jerome. 2 fold, 1st, Elizabeth went through a lot of shhhhhh! in her emails as she planned this beautiful surprise party for Jeromes`50th Bday. Held at Luxautica car "warehouse" at the Millenia mall in Orlando. This place has @20mil in cars right on the floor. It is a VERY exclusive car club as well as a fantastic place to party and relax at the same time. Want to see the ((worlds)) most expensive production car....the Buggatti clocks in at (2 MILLION)). It is the fastest Car in the World the BUGATTI VEYRON w/ a top speed of 253MPH. They had 3 of them, but I think the others were the "cheap" versions at only 1.5 Million ea. LOL!. Anyway, we were able to get pictures of Lambos, Ferrari`s, Masserattis some of which I have never seen nor heard of as well as a night of GREAT Family and friends all there to share in Jeromes surprise party.  

I saved the BEST!!! for last. Elizabeth and Jerome are engaged to be married this coming year. As a photographer and specifically a wedding photographer. I cant help but look for "love" between couples. And w/o question they have it. Several times throughout the night I caught (on camera, I am always looking) at several sweet moments between them while it may have been a little kiss to the cheek or Jerome grabbing for Elizabeths hand, or even how they looked at each other for a fleeting second. It was very clear to me that they are a special couple in love.

Elizabeth, you looked phenomenal. I can only imagine how "breathtaking" you are going to look on your wedding day. 

Happy Birthday Jerome and congratulations! on your future marriage to this sensational girl Elizabeth.

Happy Holidays,

Scott Craig

Bring in the NEW Year...I`m ready & excited!

As we approach the end of this fabulous year. Even with the present economy situation I am VERY thankful for this yr. I could dwell on all the negative...but you don`t want to read that nor do I. So, instead I want to take a few minutes just to express my sincere love and appreciation for this departing year.

1st. a HUGE thank you to my wife Raquel who is my inspiration & my "Roc" my nickname for her. She has supported me not only in business but in life. In everything I do she`s there for me. Which also includes a TON of time on the computer with marketing, typing and more typing. We have 2 of the ABSOLUTE best kids you can ask for and she is the glue that binds all of us together. Thank you Ethan and Sophia my 2 amazing children. Just your smiles, silly faces and little hands squeezing me so hard that sometimes, I try sooooo hard to hide my tears (of love) that I feel for you. Your UNconditional love and affection that I could not live a second without knowing I always have it.

Chris ...AKA (Boy Genius) a big part of my success and quite possibly the most reliable co-worker I have ever had assisting me in every way w/o ever missing a day or having an excuse. He`s with me at every wedding and contributes in post editing the day after to give that "Scott Craig look" that so many of you, my clients appreciate. A very special person that I consider a friend!

Finally, I LOVE what I do and it`s because of YOU my clients (for lack of better word) I get to earn my living and provide for my family. I owe you my sincerest appreciation for allowing me to document  and capture what is considered to be one of the most important and special days in your lives. Every wedding is extraordinary and very special to me! Getting to know each couple and watching for those intimate moments between the two of you, a whisper in an ear or a kiss on the nose, the 1st time you are announced "mr & mrs"... capturing that split second in time that I KNOW that every time you look at it. You will both "feel" something or remember that specific moment. And, even if you don`t remember it. You will be thankful that I was there to capture it for you and future generations to appreciate. 

Many of you I still keep in touch with and have become friends and this is another reason I love what I do. I thank you for ALL the FABULOUS Referrals you have sent me. I know that is a HUGE gesture of trust in me. And one that I GREATLY appreciate. 

As we get ready for 2009, we bring in a new year, new president, new hopes and loves, new goals and my favorite new FRIENDS. Make 2009 better then 2008 & make 2010 better then 2009. Get those wedding plans in order, don`t stress over little things, it will work out. Live, Love and NEVER forget to laugh.

Happy Holiday and Best wishes,

Scott Craig

Americas next top model

Although, I am mainly known for wedding and portrait photography from time to time I like to photograph other areas of interest to me. This past week I had the pleasure of doing a small fashion model shoot in Orlando. I met Julie, the model for the 1st time and was impressed with her willingness to give 100%. For a short time we stood outside in (freezing) temperatures while in a mini dress and shivering, teeth chattering, goose bumps etc, we were able to get some REALLY great images. Julie, is w/o question a natural with quite possibly the longest legs I have ever seen on a girl.

Good Luck to you Julie.

Scott

Ke`Shea & Kelvin journey from Jacksonville

Although they will be getting married in Jacksonville in 2009 Ke`Shea & Kelvin met up w/me in winter park a couple of Sundays ago to do there Esession which I REALLY love to capture. It gives us all a chance to get to know each other and my style. So that on the wedding day we have some comfortability w/each other.

It was a fantastic day w/great weather to get some beautiful romantic images. Although Ke`Shea is quite beautiful, but she took a little time to warm up and not smile everytime the camera was pointed her way. But, within a few minutes of lite talk she was ready for the BIG TIME. Kelvin on the other hand was like...BAM! I`m ready for a TV show. He was very natural and really better then I expected...LOL. These are 2 great people that you can truly see the love they have for each other.

Regards,

Scott

Sooner vs. Later: Is there an Ideal age for Marriage

As a wedding photographer I always try to keep aware of all things related to marriage. When I found this article I thought it was interestingly funny and had to share it with you. How many of our parents were getting married at 20 with kids to follow soon after...my how times have changed.

By Sharon Jayson, USA TODAY

Emily Becker wanted to be married by age 30. In June, at age 28, she and Joe Becker, 29, were married. They were the last of their group to tie the knot.
Even though they began dating in 2003 — around the same time as most of their friends — "it took us almost twice as long to get married," she says. "We both knew we wanted to marry each other. We just kept having to put it off."

The reason? Careers. Both are doctors. They spent four years in medical school. Three years of residency were in different cities. They got engaged in October of last year and now live in San Francisco.

"If we had been together in the same city, I think maybe we would have married sooner," he says.

Like many young adults today, the Beckers waited to marry until they felt the time was right. Others are also holding off while maintaining a single-but-together status that can last years. That may be one reason the age at first marriage has been climbing steadily for all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups. The median age is now the oldest since the U.S. Census started keeping track in the 1890s: almost 26 for women and almost 28 for men.

And as young people wait longer to marry, there is growing debate over whether waiting is a good idea, and if so, how long is best. Those who advocate marriage in the early to mid-20s say that's the age when the pool of possible mates is larger, it's when couples can "grow up" together and it's prime for childbearing. But others favor the late 20s or early 30s, saying maturity makes for happier unions and greater economic security — both of which make divorce less likely.

To read more, visit USA Today

Intimate Wedding at The Maitland Art Center

The theme to this wedding was "Vintage" & fun. 

This couple was fun and not concerned with the "traditional" wedding plans. Infact there was no limo to whisk them away, but instead they rode away on John`s "vintage" looking vespa.... How FUN!!!!. 

Anyway,On what was a beautiful Saturday and made for a wedding which was held at the Maitland Art Center. With about 45-50 guests, some of which came as far away as Germany to be a part of this and to see Christina and John exchange vows. John, was looking very cool in is pinstriped vintage look. As a matter of fact I think the dress Christina wore was a true vintage dress from the 1940`s. As many of the images will show there was a lot of tears from not only Christina & John, but many of the guests as well. It was not my ordinary "venue" style that is typically held at big, hotels or ceremony halls. The small and intimate setting is outdoors with lots of trees and spanish moss dripping from every branch. We were able to take images at several different locations all within the area. By the the way several of the images were taken of them at speeds of @45mph. Chris my assistant was driving while I hung out the passenger window to get these. ((I Love my job)) even if it means risking my life. If you have never been nor seen the Maitland Art Center you should.

One last note, the reception: Held at the "Funky Monkey wine company" & restaurant in Orlando. This too is a small and very stylish place, from american to sushi, from beer to many types of wines. I was very impressed with not only the ambiance but how good the food was. Thanks for making me feel so comfortable around all your friends and family. 

You guys are AWESOME!

Best wishes,

Scott 

Meet the Hooters

Last week on Halloween I had the pleasure of photographing this sweet family. Kelly contacted me through the internet expressing that they would be at Disney world on Halloween and wanted to have some pictures for family memories. Ironically, Oct 31st is a special day for the Hooters. It is their wedding anniversary as well as the day the flew to Russia to adopt their oldest son. He was soooo sweet and a real ham for the camera. Although, when at Disney most kids are not really interested in taking pictures, but more concerned with seeing Mickey. So, a little "bribery" had to be used to get the kids to "cooperate" Who could blame them. But we were able to get a few very cute pictures that will really be funny in a few years.

Thanks Again guys! 

Rachel & Jonathan at Mystic Dunes

On Saturday Oct 26th Rachel & Jonathan exchanged vows at Mystic Dunes in Kissimmee. Rachel, Looked stunning and looked very relaxed. It was a beautiful day filled with lots of friends and family there to witness this union.  With Great music provided by White Rose entertainment from some country (save a horse ride a cowboy) loved it!..to rap, they shook there money makers. And let me tell you, I was surprised by Jonathan`s "great moves".

Congratulations guys you looked great and had a beautiful wedding filled with love.

Best Wishes,

Scott

BOO...It`s Halloween time (candy warnings)

Hi Everyone,

Just a quick note. I was emailed from a client of candies to avoid for "reasons". Basically, stay away from any candy made in China. I told her I was going to hand out Spinach and Broccoli candy. That would be a big hit w/ the kids...LOL

Meet the Grohes

Recently I had the pleasure of documenting this family gathering. All from different parts of the country. We met in the Orlando college park area at a (beautifully) restored vacation home. I can tell you that the grandparents were sooooo overjoyed and absolutely in love with their grand children. Thanks for a great time and the opportunity to capture your life.

Best Wishes,

Scott Craig

Ashley & Reggie in the BIG game

Small world story: My 1st contact as most often is from my website. So, upon scheduling our first meeting I like to meet with both the bride and groom if possible.  Upon our meeting and introductions, I learned Reggie`s last name was Kohn. Now the small world part... Reggie`s dad was my wife`s high school P.E. coach, and then my wife taught with Reggie’s mother for 10 yrs. This is a small world.

Both Reggie and Ashley are beautiful, down to earth people from GREAT families and a long line of educators. Reggie is a High school basketball coach just like his proud father, and Ashley is an elementary school teacher. They exchanged their vows at the First United Methodist Church of Winter Park with about 250 friends and family present to celebrate this union.  The reception was at the beautiful ballroom at Church Street in Orlando with enough food for all of the county and followed by enough dancing to work off the calories.

Reggie this was the game of your life and BOTH you and Ashley are the winners.

Congrats Again,

Scott

Serving in Iraq ( with big boots to fill)

Every now & then a photographer gets a little more inspiration. This was one of those occasions for me. I had the pleasure of meeting this wonderful couple at a wedding I did a few months ago. Jen, was a bridesmaid who was so friendly and photgenic that is was easy for me to "take her picture" and Mike her husband, serving in Iraq and the brother of the (beautiful) bride who was also a groomsman caught my attention and admiration when I saw him in uniform. I had instant respect for him and what he is sacrificing to serve our country. Put yourself in his position leaving his wife Jen and ABSOLULTEY adorable daughter Katelyn while in the middle east for who knows how long. 

So, after the all weddings I post images online for all to see. I guess Jen liked what she saw enough to contact me for there own family pictures. We planned this for a couple of months since they are currently living out of state. For me it was something that excited me from the first time we talked. 1st) I have a TREMENDOUS respect for all of our armed forces and the sacrifice they make for all of us.  2nd) Jen, explained that these images were going to be extremely emotional for the memories they will preserve for everyone for a very long time.

We took time to photograph Mike in both his military uniform and civilian clothes. I also thought it would be nice to take some "grown up" shots that Jen and Mike could have for themselves. As anyone with kids knows it is hard to have "adult" time only. this was a great opportunity to give this to them. We were able to get many images of the family as well as the "grown ups" alone.

When Mike came out from changing into civilian clothes he put has (actual) Army boots here wears in (combat) on the ground. It was then I got the idea to "connect" Katelyn to her father that will be forever!

You guys are GREAT!.

With respect,

Scott Craig

Meet the Inmans

I know I have said this b4, but I am still amazed at how important and powerful the Internet is. Here is another FANTASTIC experience I have had. Regina was looking to have some photos taken while on vacation in Daytona from Georgia with her family. She had expressed the importance of this occasion & I was really honored to be the one to capture these memories. We emailed and spoke over the phone for a couple of months and while we originally decided to meet in St Augustine in the late afternoon the weather was a big concern for all. So, at the last minute we decided just to stay in the Daytona area and meet in the morning instead. I am glad we did. As minutes after the session ended and I was driving home... & BOOM came the hurricane force rains which most certainly would have put a damper on the original location and time of session.
Anyway, Upon meeting the whole family which included 3 BEAUTIFUL children I was able to “connect” with them on more personal level then just photographer there for a job. I found a several common bonds between Milton the husband and myself...not just being a parent and having kids of similar ages, but the LOVE of motorcycles especially dirt bikes. If you ride you understand. It is something that is indescribable.
The session/experience ended with many beautiful images that will be cherished for generations. And I feel I met new friends.
I thank you for a wonderful time and allowing me to be the one to capture these memories. And to show me just how powerful the internet is.

Best Wishes,
Scott

Expecting Maya

This past week I had the pleasure of photographing my Niece & Nephew Dennis and Maruxa who are expecting their 1st child a baby girl who they are naming Maya. It amazing to me seeing my “little” niece who I 1st met 15 years ago when she was about 10 years old now preparing to be a mother. Both she and Dennis are going to be fantastic, caring & very loving parents. Murph, get ready for a lot of sleepless nights and changing diapers. You know you have a HUGE support group in all os us, your family!
We all can`t wait for Maya to have a sibling.

With Love, your family

It`s The Law

This past week I was commissioned to photograph Chris & James. The Attorneys of Payer Law Group Located in Orlando & Miami. The images are to be used for there advertising. So, Ok I admit I was a little nervous when working for a Attorney you automatically have FEAR!!. But, I gotta tell you....We had a GREAT! time with lots of laughs. I am a Big sports fan and from the moment I saw Chris` office with football memorabilia I knew this was going to be a good time. Even though Chris is a Nole fan (I didn`t hold that against him). And then I met James the one standing who is Hurricane fan (so am I) Don`t hold that against me. All said we got some fantastic images that they are using for there advertising.... GO CANES

Florida Hotel & Scott Craig Photography

Back in May I had the pleasure of photographing a wedding at the Florida Hotel. After most weddings I will send some images to vendors so that the can enjoy them or use them for advertising. I guess the Hotel enjoyed the pictures so much they asked me if they could display them. It is an honor and if you are looking for a venue I would give the Florida Hotel a look.

Jackie & Jose at the Rosen Hotel

Held at the Rosen Hotel in Orlando. This was a magical night. The lighting and ambiance was spectacular. With Latin music playing that even inspired me to dance (well maybe not) but it was good. I`m not sure I ever saw this many “good” dancers in one place. I will have a few more images posted on the wedding page very soon.

Thanks Guys!

Comment:

We just want to share with everyone how wonderful our experience has been with Scott. We were truly lucky to have found him!! His personality, charm and experience is worth a million bucks! He is really easy to work with, very easy to stay in touch with, and knows great poses and places to photograph. He also does a wonderful job with retouching pictures and adding awesome filters to enhance certain aspects of the pictures. We had a good time taking pics at our engagement session and at our wedding! He didn't miss an important moment or a cute smile or funny laugh. Definately recommend him for any occassion! Jackie and Jose Maldonado

Jackie & Jose at the Portofino Bay Hotel

Had another fun E session over the weekend. These guys are getting married next month at the Rosen Hotel in Orlando. They were so relaxed. I didn`t see any signs of stress...for real!.. well not yet...LOL.
The Portofino Hotel was a spot they decided to make these memories at. On the wedding day we will have images taken at several locations including Winter Park. It is going to be a very busy day for Scott Craig Photography, but one that will be welI worth it. I LOVE what I do. I can`t wait for the wedding day. I am already jazzed about getting a ton of romantic and phenomenal images. Ck back at the end of August to see.

Hi Scott,
I have been meaning to email you, yes I did receive the E session pictures. They came out soooo nice, and thank you for doing the extra enhancements, the pics with the enhancements came out awesome!
We are trying our best to narrow them down.
Jacqueline A. da Silva

Dean & Shellane at Leu Gardens

This past weekend I had the pleasure of photographing a wedding at the beautiful and romantic setting of Leu Gardens. Dean a fireman who showed not a sign of nervousness and Shellane a fitness instructor and a “very” fit one at that. She was absolutely a magnificent looking bride. Which you will be able to see in a few more days. The ceremony was held outdoors and luckily the rain held off until the reception. If you have not picked a ceremony or reception site yet, consider Leu Gardens. Also, A big thanks to Keisha at Classic Celebrations the wedding planner for Dean & Shellane who kept things running smoothly even though a few hiccups happened along the way. At the end of this day I think we all had a blast, good memories and I got a chance to meet some fantastic people.

Thanks Again guys!

Scott Craig is not only a wonderful photographer but he is also incredibly funny! His charm and personality helped ease everyone's nerves. It was incredibly hot and yet he still managed to keep everyone smiling. He is very creative in his poses and prides himself on snapping not only beautiful portraits but the comical candid ones as well. I will use him again and my next event. He is worth his weight in gold!

Alison, Scott and Bugsy

Just got finished with Scott & Alison`s Engagement session. First of all I’d like to extend a warm congratulations on their engagement and best wishes for the future. Spending time with them I got to see why they will do well together, they compliment each other so well and I was really happy with just how well that came through in the photos. Getting Married at Timacaun country club in Lake Mary 2009

Thank your soooooo much for the DVD I LOVE THE PICTURES!!! Alison and Scott

The Gertner Family Visits New Smynra

The power of the internet and having a website. These folks found me on the web and and wanted some photographs to document there vacation to New Smyrna beach. We met late in the day when the sun was low and thankfully not very hot. I was able to get a lot of spontaneous pictures that will be cherished for a lifetime. 

Beatrice & David St Augustine

This past weekend I had the pleasure of attending a beautiful wedding in St Augustine. This city has an unreal amount of history and countless settings for unbelievable pictures with buildings and original streets that are well over 200 years old. 

But what eclipsed the beauty of the city was the wedding of 2 beautiful and wonderful people. Held at the Lightener Museum which was once a Hotel, Located only minutes from Jacksonville and Daytona beach. David and Beatrice from Miami exchanged there vows in the courtyard of this historical site.

Best Wishes!