Posts Tagged ‘erica dotson’

Saturday Steal // Arkansas Wedding Photographer

Saturday, October 9th, 2010

I have been bookmarking blogs like crazy so be sure to expect some good stuff around here!  Let me know if you have any ideas for posts or if you would like to see something on the blog!

Saturday Steal…..Again from Martha because she’s that awesome!

mwd104971_fall09_05_22_09_041_xl

This is super cute!  Why just have the “Just Married” sign on the back of your car and why not post one at your reception?  Download the template here….

mwd105786_fall10_ties1_xl

I love this advice about the ties!!!  Read more.

mwa103424_wi08_framedrecipe_xl

Find out how to make this frame!!!  So cute! Read More.

mwd105619_sum10_jan155_xl

Ring Bearer book………I think YES!!!  Read More.

mwd102896_su07_postcard_xl

You know we could totally create these for you!  Let me know if you are interested before we start your engagement shoot and we can work this into the design!!! Read more.

a100771_sum04_confettipouch_xl

This would be a post my mom would be proud of (she’s an environmental engineer)…..BIODEGRADABLE CONFETTI!!!!  Awesome!  No mess to clean up! Read More.

If there’s anything you’d like to see featured please let us know!  We write these things for you guys anyways!  :)  I’d love to hear from you…..(AKA please leave comments!!!)  :)

Enjoy!

-erika

What to Wear // Senior Style

Wednesday, September 1st, 2010

I decided to start something new…..are you really that surprised?

To kick off the new school year I wanted to make some What to Wear samples for your upcoming SENIOR PORTRAITS!!!  Check back weekly to see some new styles and be sure to book your sessions because my fall sessions are booking up quickly!

I recommend for each session something:

//DRESSY//

//TRENDY//

//CASUAL//

*All styles available at Forever 21

All you 2011 Seniors let’s schedule your portrait session now for all the beautiful fall weather!  Email (erikadotson@gmail.com) today to start booking your session!  Hurry our spots are limited and running out!

Enjoy!

-erika

Elizabeth and Andrew // NW Arkansas Engagement Portraits

Saturday, August 28th, 2010

Hey, Donnally here! I’m a new intern for Erika Dotson Photography, find out more about me here.

Meet Elizabeth and Andrew, a ridiculously cute couple! Erika threw me a camera, and I started snapping pictures… a great way to learn the ropes! Erika gave me a ideas for themes, I chose a first date theme for the couple because I thought it would be perfect for them. It was a fun shoot, complete with cupcakes from Bliss Cupcake Cafe, balloons, and lots of laughter. We shot the mini-session with them in downtown Fayetteville. Elizabeth and Andrew, recently engaged, were great to work with!

NW Arkansas Engagement Photography

Bliss was a cute place to begin the shoot, owner Shelley Cassar, was happy to have Bliss as the set for the first date theme.

NW Arkansas Engagement Photography

To set up the first date theme, Elizabeth and Andrew picked out their cupcakes.  Their taste of choice was chocolate milkshake and carrot cake. Yum!!!

NW Arkansas Engagement Photography

*Erika here –  It was such a treat to be able to teach Donnally what I knew about photography this day.  I’m super excited to have her on board as an intern here!  Can’t wait for what is to come!  Be sure to check out her about page.

NW Arkansas Engagement Photography

Yes, old fashion Coca-Cola was a must for the shoot!

NW Arkansas Engagement Photography

I’ve got nothing for you… but meet the cupcakes.

NW Arkansas Engagement Photography

Andrew kept blowing bubbles in the Coca-Cola, making Elizabeth all smiles.

NW Arkansas Engagement Photography

*We thought it may be a bit awkward if Donnally wrote about herself, so here I am again.  I loved how she just jumped onto this table to shoot!  She’s learning already one of the most important factors on a shoot…..not worrying about your surroundings and how silly you look propped up on the table!  I love it!  :)

NW Arkansas Engagement Photography

Gorgeous lighting.

NW Arkansas Engagement Photography

I love the way Andrew looks at her.  So sweet.

NW Arkansas Engagement Photography

And forehead kisses… bonus!!!

NW Arkansas Engagement Photographer

This picture sums up the couple.  Perfect.

Enjoy!

-Donnally

Sarah and Ryan // Springfield Wedding Photography

Thursday, August 26th, 2010

Sarah and Ryan are such a lighthearted fun loving couple!  They were such a treat to work with!  I’m pretty sure they were more concerned about everyone else on their wedding day than themselves!  Let’s get to know them!

Springfield Wedding Photography 1

There’s a big ol rivalry in their new marriage…..you’ll see more later, I just want you to note what kind of garter Mrs. Sarah is wearing!  :)

I love when I get to arrive early and shoot the girls and guys hanging out doing their thing, special thanks to Tanja who was able to shoot the boys! (literally glad they didn’t shoot her!)

Springfield Wedding Photography 3

Since we didn’t do “official” bridals I decided to capture a few while we were getting organized.  We got to take the bridal party photos in the back yard, bonus!!!  She’s so fun and just makes me want to smile!

Springfield Wedding Photography 2

We hurried on to the wedding at the gorgeous Immaculate Conception Church in Springfield Missouri.

I just think it’s adorable when my couples rent or borrow old classic cars for their getaway!!!

Springfield Wedding Photography 6

Then we all stopped off at a local park and took some super fun bridal party shots!  Let me tell you I’ve never had such a fun and outgoing bunch before!  It was a pleasure to work with this crew, they were up for any of my crazy ideas!

Springfield Wedding Photography 5

Oh of course we got some beautiful wind and amazing couple shots!!!!!!  I just LOVE LOVE LOVE when my brides wear long veils!  These shots are stunning!

Springfield Wedding Photography 4

I’ll be honest when Sarah told me about this place that has a cool cave I wasn’t too enthralled, but you better believe when we got up there and started shooting I was!  I just love how they turned out!

Yes I posted an out of focus image……oh no……the world is going to end……..ok not really but there was just something about this image I couldn’t just toss it out!  I love it.

Springfield Wedding Photography 9

Ok so show us the details!  First off I must say I was totally impressed…..Sarah’s mom still has the penny she put in her shoe when she got married and now Sarah was able to use the same one!!!  Adorable!

I loved the wedding day  emergency kit they put together too cute!

The cake was provided by Julies Chewies and while I’m mentioning it, of course I had some and it was delicious! :)

So I explained a little bit earlier there was some rivalry but this should explain things a bit more!!!  The football helmets were perfect for their ring shots! LOVED IT!

Springfield Wedding Photography 7

Then off to the reception where we got LOTS of dancing done with many thanks to Rick of  Hits and Grins Entertainment.  Ok does the little old lady not just make you all warm and buttery inside?!?!?!  She’s adorable!  I also want to point out that these two have some super proud mommas and daddys!!!!

Springfield Wedding Photography 8

I love this image too!  I just adore the sparklers and the color!

Springfield Wedding Photography 10

Ramada I couldn’t have said it better myself!

Enjoy!

-erika

What to Wear Wednesdays!

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

Hey everyone!

One of the most popular questions I get is what to wear……hence I’ve created a whole link just for you guys up there!  But that’s not enough, I’d like to take it a bit further and show you what some good examples are!

Fall is coming up and I know everyone wants to have their family portrait made this time of year, hurry and book quickly since those beautiful fall leaves come and go so quickly so does my availability between senior sessions and family sessions and everything in between!

Now booking for mid Sept and Oct.  Please contact me at erikadotson@gmail.com to book your session!  I’m trying to schedule sessions on Mon, Tues, Wed, Thur.  let me know if you need a weekend date and we’ll try to work something out!

Below is an example for a family of five, but could be adapted for a couple session as well.  You can see the color palette below.  Using accessories is a great way to add individuality to each family member.  Maybe a grey scarf for mom?  What about some cute ruffly socks for little sister?  Or could you see dad in a fedora?!?!?  :)

Copyright Erika Dotson Photography

Copyright Erika Dotson Photography

Please leave some feedback.  Let me know if there’s something you’d like to see.

Enjoy!

-erika

Ashton and Adam // Mena Arkansas Wedding Photography

Tuesday, July 27th, 2010

Ashton and Adam were married in Mena, which is where I graduated high school!  It was nice to drive back down there and visit again!  Their wedding was held at the Herod home.  They had so many lovely wedding day helpers!  I could tell these two families were very welcoming and just amazing!  It’s always good to feel accepted and taken care of at a wedding!  :)  Thanks guys!  You two are beautiful and I know the Big Man upstairs has a lot in store for you!  Congratulations on your new life together!

Let’s start with all the BEAUTIFUL details!

Mena Arkansas Wedding Photography

The flowers were created by a local florist that is just starting out in the area her name is Lauren Frost.  She’s super stylish and adorable!  If you are planning a wedding and would like her info please contact me.

Arkansas Wedding Photographer

For some reason I love this photo!  Guys just have no idea how much work it can take to get that beautiful gown on do they?

Arkansas Wedding Photography

Isn’t she a beauty?

Arkansas Wedding Photographer

This image along with the next few pretty much sum up a “First Look”.  I just LOVE LOVE LOVE when my clients decide to do a First Look!  You still get ready as usual without seeing each other beforehand.  We set up in a pretty location with good lighting before the ceremony begins.  A First Look allows you to relax and send a little time with your future spouse before the ceremony, you can talk, touch, kiss, laugh, hold, hug, etc. all of which are things you usually aren’t doing at the altar.  It also allows for more time for creative portraits as well as getting all those family portraits out of the way so you can move right on to the reception without leaving your guests waiting!

Mena Wedding Photography

Wedding Photography

She’s so happy and relieved to be able to see her groom before the ceremony!

Arkansas Wedding Photography

And then you get yummy pictures like this!!!!!  LOVE!

Arkansas Wedding Portraits

Meet Mr. and Mrs. Herod!  :)  Ashton that has a nice ring to it!

Arkansas Wedding Portraits

Arkansas Wedding Photography

Don’t they look so happy together!?!?!

Arkansas Wedding Portraits

Arkansas Weddings

I just love these purple bridesmaid dresses!

Arkansas Bridal Portraits

What a gorgeous dress!

Arkansas Wedding Photographer

Ashton’s smile as she sees her groom……

Arkansas Weddings

Along with Adam’s smile!  :)

Arkansas Wedding Photography

Love this shot I was able to capture!  Some dad love!

Erika Dotson Photography

What a beautiful day and location for a wedding day!

Arkansas Wedding Photographer

These two little girls were adorable!

Erika Dotson Photography

They look a weee bit happy to finally be married…..  :)

Now on to the reception……..just a few more detail shots for ya!

Arkansas Weddings

Mena Wedding Photos

I’m telling you this Lauren Frost girl did an amazing job on the florals!

Wedding Photos

Mena Wedding Photographer

What a beautiful wedding cake too!

Mena Wedding Photography

Razorback Weddings

Some more cake cutting…………..

Mena Weddings

The whole crowd called the Hogs while they cut their cake!  Too cute!

Mena AR Wedding Photography

Awww and a cute Hog kiss to seal the deal!

Mena Weddings

Perfect toss Ashton!

Mena Ar Photographer

And yes Adam you did well too!

Mena Ar Photographer

What a beautiful happy couple!

Congratulations you two!

Enjoy!

-erika

Alyssa and Seth // NWA Wedding Photography at Pratt Place Barn

Monday, July 26th, 2010

Hey there everyone!  I know I’ve disappeared off the face of the earth for a bit but I’m coming back in full swing!  Alyssa and Seth were the winners of our contest we held nearly a year ago at the Democrat Gazette Bridal Fair in Rogers.  If you remember there was a whole lot of people following what was going on.  I had the participants submit a letter explaining them as a couple.  Then we selected a few participants to take a picture with their fiance and incorporate Erika Dotson Photography into the photo somehow.  It came down to two girls and I had the opportunity to meet with them and I chose Alyssa and Seth as the winners of the Free Wedding Photography package.  I am certain that was the right choice as well!  Alyssa and Seth were perfect and glowing on their wedding day.  Their special day was something out of the ordinary as well which was another reason I chose to volunteer my time and talents in their behalf.  Alyssa and Seth both lost their father’s in a relatively close time period and decided that there was no other day that would honor them as much as Father’s Day.  These two set themselves aside to commemorate their amazing father’s.  I hope through these images you can see that same selfless beauty that I saw the moment I met Alyssa and Seth.

Let’s start with some getting ready shots……

NW Arkansas Weddings

I just love her cute little shoes!  She even had her brother (the lucky guy that walked her down the aisle) put a penny in her shoe just before the ceremony started!

Arkansas Wedding Photography

Her dress was stunning!  The entire gown was made of lace!  Gorgeous!

(Just a little tip to all my brides out there……remember a cute hanger for your dress shot!)

Arkansas Wedding Photography

I loved the color of these bridesmaid dresses!  I think green was a pretty popular color this year!

Arkansas Wedding Photography

This is one of my favorite images of the day!  Seems silly I know, but just take a minute to look into the photo.  This image tells a story.  You’ve got the bride making last minute preparations before her finally gets her dress on, while mom and maid of honor are carefully getting her dress ready for it’s big debut.  This is a beautiful photograph!!!!

Arkansas Wedding Photography

This is just too cute!

Arkansas Wedding Photography

This image is so timeless to me!

Erika Dotson Photography

A little attention for Seth as well…..lookin sharp.

Erika Dotson Photography

A little brotherly love….

Erika Dotson Photography

To be followed by sisterly love!  I’ve got some more lovely lit photos for you!

Erika Dotson Photography

First let’s finally met the lovely couple……Alyssa and Seth Pitts…..Congratulations!

Erika Dotson Photography

LOVE.

Erika Dotson Photography

What a stunning bride!

Erika Dotson Photography

Gorgeous couple + gorgeous light = wedding perfection!

Erika Dotson Photography

Their wedding was held at the beautiful Pratt Place Inn.

Fayetteville Wedding Photography

NW Arkansas Wedding Photography

Anticipation.

Pratt Place Barn Wedding Photography

What a gorgeous ceremony inside the barn.

Pratt Place Barn Wedding Photography

They seem a little excited!

Let’s move on to some detail shots!!!!!!…………….

Fayetteville Wedding Photography

Alyssa chose to use a local florist from Prairie Grove.  Their flowers turned out beautifully.

Fayetteville Wedding Photography

At their reception Alyssa and Seth set up this beautiful little table to make Father’s Day cards.  It was such an original and cute idea!  Pictured above is Seth’s father on the left and Alyssa’s father on the right.

Arkansas Wedding Photography

I started thinking which led to this idea!  I just love when my wedding clients add personal touches to their wedding because it allows me to capture meaningful memories for them to truly bring out their character in their photos!

Arkansas Wedding Photographer

As soon as I saw those stamps I knew what my ring shot was going to be for the day!  I think it’s perfect!

Fayetteville Wedding Photography

What an amazing wedding cake!  Love it!  It was quite tasty too!  Thanks guys!

Arkansas Weddings

They had these cute little tins with candy surrounding the cake.  Too sweet!

Arkansas Wedding Photographer

These are just too cute!  I loved all the little details that Alyssa and Seth incorporated!

Wedding Photographer

We can’t leave out the groom’s cake!  I’m pretty sure Seth is a pretty big razorback fan!  (He should be excited to know that Baby Dotson’s room will be Razorback themed then!!!)

Arkansas Wedding Photographer

Alyssa seems to be a pretty hardcore fan herself!

Arkansas Photographer

Alyssa was all grins as they shared their first dance together!

Arkansas Photographers

The Best Man whipped out his speech from his phone……I just love how technology is changing the wedding scene too!  He gave a great tear jerking speech!  Way to go!

Arkansas Wedding Photographer

I love how Alyssa’s looking back at all her single friends.

Fayetteville Wedding Photographer

And Seth with all his single friends!  I just love this shot!

Fayetteville Photographer

Seth’s facial expression here is just great!

Fayetteville Wedding Photographer

They had a live band that really rocked out their reception!

Arkansas Weddings

I love how much fun they are having together!

Fayetteville Weddings

Looks like this guy surprised everyone with his awesome dance moves!

Fayetteville AR Wedding Photographer

What a fun grand exit!

It was wonderful to work with you two!  I hope you have many happy years together!

Enjoy!

-erika

Ashely Avra // Northwest Arkansas Bridals

Monday, July 19th, 2010

I couldn’t wait to post these, but now since Ashley and Jim are finally The Clarks I get to share!!!  What a wedding last night!  (You’ll hear all about it later I promise)  For now I’m going to share how beautiful Mrs. Ashley is.   Now these are just bridal portraits (taken at The Inn at Carnall Hall) long before the wedding day, and as gorgeous as she is in these photos she unbelievably was far more stunning last night……..must be all those giddy love emotions oh and Jim (that probably had a little bit to do with it!)  ;)   Enough blabbing let’s see those photos!

NWA Bridal Portraits

Is she not just gorgeous?  I love the smile here!!!!

NWA Bridals

NWA Bridals

Can you believe her mother made this bouquet for her bridal portraits!?!?!?  Well done Mrs. Avra!

NWA Bridal Portraits

I think this one is my favorite!

IMG_7439

NW Arkansas Bridals

I love how the lighting captures her beautiful dress!

Arkansas Bridals

Adorable shoes!

Arkansas Bridal Portraits

Arkansas Bridals

Great job Jim!  This ring is magnificent!

Enjoy!

-erika

Cristy and John // Utah Wedding Photographer

Wednesday, June 23rd, 2010

Hey everyone as promised I am posting more images from Cristy and John’s sealing in the Draper Utah Temple!  I got to tag along with Doug Larson their Utah Wedding Videographer and he showed me all the hot spots at the temple grounds.  Cristy and John had so much family and friends there to support them and witness their beautiful sealing!  The weather was perfect, other than being a tad on the cold side (but no one can tell that from pictures!  :)  Cristy and John are such a beautiful couple inside and out and I’m pretty sure someone has got big plans for them while they are here!!!  After their sealing they attended their reception held at John’s parents house in Heber City.  Their family did lots of work preparing for the reception and it looked great! Congratulations Cristy and John!

Utah weddings

Utah Weddings

I just love how happy they are in this shot!!!  Exactly how they should be after leaving the temple! Utah Wedding Photography

I love how John steals one from Cristy to show off for the camera!  :)  Shots like this make me smile! Utah Weddings

Beautiful couple at a beautiful temple! Utah Weddings

This is definitely my favorite shot of the day! Utah Weddings

I just love the lighting in this little nook!  The warm glow from those doors is amazing! Utah Wedding Photographer

Utah Wedding Photographer

Here’s the famous cupcakes!  All of John’s sister in laws spent the entire day creating these beautiful little cupcakes so I had to give them justice and feature them on the blog!

Utah Wedding Photographer

So who would have thought this old rusty chair that I spotted outside would make the perfect backdrop for Cristy’s bouquet? Utah Wedding Photographer

Or how about a tree stump to provide such a detailed ring shot? Utah Wedding Photographer

I love how happy everyone is in this photo as the couple enjoys their first dance together. Utah Wedding Photographer

This image is priceless to me…..it’s as if John has had a moment to really stop and think as he holds his new wife close.  I can see so much love and care for her here. Utah Wedding Photographer

Let’s end with this playful shot of dad and son making sure they “get” the new couple as they make their get a way!

Enjoy!

-erika