It seems as though spring has decided to give it a miss this year and summer has taken over a little before time.  But, hey, who am I to complain?  At least I get to make the most of the early mornings and later evenings.

On the subject of the new seasons, here's a quick post from Natalie's and Brandon's gorgeous springtime wedding, at Oakfield Farm.

It is always pleasing to do something a tad out of the ordinary and Natalie's and Brandon's Chinese wedding, with 280 guests, definitely qualified!

Throughout the day, one of the key things that struck me about Natalie's and Brandon's rite of passage, is just how important family, friends and tradition are - all wrapped into one delightful bundle. For instance, the traditional tea-pouring ceremony not only made for some really fantastic photographs, it was quite simply a privilege to behold.

I should also mention I was pre-advised that both Natalie and Brandon were not duly fond of the camera, but, once again, looking through the awesome photos Stella and I captured, I can not, for the life of me, see any symptoms of IHTC (I hate the camera) in evidence.

A bit of a whopper of a post (in terms of images), but, I wanted you to really experience what it was like to be at Natalie's and Brandon's wedding, as well as to demonstrate what rock stars both Brandon and Natalie are!

How gorgeous are the bridesmaids orchid baskets - made by none other than Coral from Blooms on the Boulevard

That look says it all.

The tears....

...and the laughter. For me, the two bridesmaid's laughing in the background finishes off the image.

 I could not decide which one I prefered, curious or chilling? so posted both of this little boy.

We are one week into September.  How did that happen? 

Well, August was insane.  Amongst everything else, it also happened to be the month we had to enrol Oliver into school. (Yep, big school next year). 

Finding a decent government school in our area proved to be a rather time-consuming and nerve-wracking exercise!  Fingers crossed, however, we will finally get him into our school of choice.

I found a spare few minutes, (that statement in itself is incredible), so I thought I would share:

This image of Julian was rewarded 3rd place in the Portraits category of the African Photographic Awards, announced two weeks ago.  I have been oblivious to this, as I was unable to attend the awards evening. So, a little happy dance in celebration of the belated news.

...and here's to September being a less stressful month!

A few weekends ago, I photographed Deidre's and Ramon's wedding.  I have been waiting for just the right moment to blog this event, but, to be perfectly honest with you, August has been totally manic!   Even so, here you are, Deidre and Ramon, your post - finally!

It was an utter pleasure to photograph both of you.  We laughed, we dodged ferocious labradors, walked through burnt veld and visited all the lesser-known nooks of Kloofzicht Lodge and yes, Roman, we did indeed manage to get your shoes all dusty!  But, I am certain you'll agree, it was all worth it in the end!

We were looked after so well by everybody, so thank you both for everything.

We- Had- A- Ball!

Here is your eye-feast of the day;

Those of you who've ever delved into the archives of this wee blog, will be familiar with our light-hearted take on Jake's limp-wristed inclinations (luckily, he can't read yet, so it's still safe). Well, as I was putting together the final touches of this dispatch, with Jake sitting on my lap, whilst in the throes of an unpleasant bout of tonsillitis and feeling quite the worst for wear, he did manage to muster up the following: "Those shoes are Blootiful Mama" - Say no more!

Last week I was especially fortunate to host a second workshop with Dror and, on that note, I’d like to extend my many thanks to all 25 participants and our Rockstar, who attended Re.Invent II at Forum Homini.

To be totally honest, I was yet again a nervous wreck, but, after the first few questions my nerves seemed to settle.

Here’s my shot from the day, but, from what I’ve seen coming in for critique, the participants’ images blow mine to smithereens.

I feel somewhat awkward typing this wedding post onto my almost 2-month wedding-free blog.

As far as wedding ceremonies are concerned, June and July are considered the inactive months - although, I might add, it has been anything but quiet or idle on my side, with lots of paperwork, editing catch-up and a 6-year-old's pirate party to organise.

Anyhow, I think the bulk of the 'to do' list is over and done with and seeing as the new season's about to start, normal blogging will resume.

Rumbidzai and Bandile were my inaugural couple of the 2010 season and it was a nice, mellow wedding to kick-start proceedings.

I've so many favourite photographs and below are just a handful to allow you a modest glimpse into such a memorable day. I will save my words and let each frame paint the picture.  I'll say one thing though: I have been blessed with having had the opportunity to witness and photograph this beautiful couple.

Not my Shtyle*;   On another note, during one of my productive spurts, I managed to click onto a photoshare link that was sent through to me. My curiousity got the better of me and upon registering, I noticed the "shtyle.fm" website e-mailed my entire contacts list. Please ignore this request - it'll certainly  teach me not to get so easily distracted.

* Copyright Trevor L