Jeffrey Stoner Video - Stuff and Nonsense

Jacqueline & Tony's Wedding Trailer

2010-05-04T09:47:00.000-07:00

Orlando locals will no doubt know the name Jacqueline London, as she is a well-known, well-respected, and well-liked anchor for WKMG Channel 6. Jacqueline seems to be the kind of person for whom the phrase was written -- "as beautiful on the inside as the outside".

It was an a privilege to join her wedding team of Lisa Konecny of E-Events, Garrett Nudd Photography, Ian Prosser of Botanica, Shannon Caine of Beautiful Music, and DJ Car l.

Please enjoy her wedding "teaser" trailer, which was produced within 36 hours of her wedding at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes.

Erin & David's New Year's Eve Wedding Trailer

2010-01-04T22:44:00.000-08:00

Some people simply don't like to work on major holidays, and while I am typically one of them, I do appreciate the elegance and mood of a New Year's Eve wedding. The anticipation of counting down those last few minutes to the new year brings provides a heightened sense of excitement to the wedding!

Just 4 days ago, I had the pleasure to shoot the wedding of Erin & David Eichenbaum at the Ritz Carlton Sarasota. It was a flawless day, and this was one to remember. Erin and David inspired us all with their love for life, for family, and for each other.

On board for this event were: Lisa Konecny and her team at E-Events, Garrett and Joy Nudd, Ian Prosser and his team from Botanica.

Enjoy!

"My Favorite Holiday Gift" with Lisa Konecny

2009-12-25T05:43:00.000-08:00

In this season's final installment, here's the one and only Lisa Konency talking about her favorite holiday gift. That's quite some "buddy" she has!

"My Favorite Holiday Gift" with Ricky Sylvia

2009-12-20T09:01:00.000-08:00

Ricky Sylvia of The Buzzcatz has been a friend since 1993 (my first year in business!) and so it was fun for me to document this latest installment. Ricky is a hard-core Miami Dolphins fan, and so it's no surprise what his favorite holiday gift turned out to be.

The question is ... will the helmet still fit?? Watch below and find out!

"My Favorite Holiday Gift" with yours truly

2009-12-15T06:59:00.000-08:00

It's a cliche' that those of us who spend our time behind the camera are typically uncomfortable being in front of it, and it's definitely true in my case! However, if I have asked my friends to talk about their favorite holiday gift memory, I couldn't pass up the chance to talk about my own.

So, here I am for a rare appearance on the convex side of the lens!

"My Favorite Holiday Gift" with Ginger Midgett

2009-12-10T20:16:00.000-08:00

Now this is recycling! My pal Ginger Midgett apparently loved this gift so much that it remains in the family (in her Mom's basement) where her kids still play with it.

Please take a few minutes to enjoy Ginger's photography -- she's far too modest to admit it herself, but I think she's tops!

90 Seconds in NYC

2009-12-08T18:25:00.000-08:00

Jordan and Dom were married at the New York Botanical Garden , and it was my honor to document their day alongside photographer extraordinaire Ryan Joseph, for whom I am always grateful for his talent and generosity on the job.

Post reception, it was our intention to head into Manhattan for some fun footage, but the weather had other plans for us! We all ended up soaking wet, but it was worth every New York minute.

Shot in a hand-held style befitting our (brief!) time in the city, here is 90 seconds in NYC with Jordan and Dom ...

"My Favorite Holiday Gift" with Susan Southerland

2009-12-01T07:13:00.000-08:00

Ladies and gentleman, my friend Susan "Pinball Wizard" Southerland, discussing one of her favorite holiday gifts! Susan, you were such a cute little girl!

"My Favorite Holiday Gift" with Maria Shafer

2009-11-19T06:21:00.000-08:00

Oh, Maria Shafer. How long have we been friends now?

Maria enthusiastically raised her hand to volunteer for this video, which will be part of a pre-holiday blog series. I simply asked Maria to tell me about her favorite, or most memorable, holiday gift. Her sad story is something that could only happen to Maria.

If you have a fun or interesting story about your favorite holiday gift and want to tell me about it in this series, let me know and we'll set it up!

Please enjoy the first installment of this mini-series ... and then go shopping!

Lisa & Keith's Grand Cayman Wedding Trailer

2009-11-16T11:49:00.000-08:00

Seems that the trend toward producing a "wedding trailer" -- a quick-turnaround teaser of the past weekend's wedding -- has gone through the roof! I've produced 3 in just the last 6 weeks. What a rush to assemble the footage mere hours after the event has ended.

This past weekend I had the incredible pleasure to spend the weekend with Lisa and Keith Hargrove at their Ritz Carlton, Grand Cayman wedding, and I am proud to release this teaser clip for them.

Helping Lisa and Keith to create this stunning event were Tami Corday of the Ritz Carlton, Lisa Konecny and Jessy Rivers of E-Events Design, Garrett Nudd capturing the photos as only he can, Lindsey Luxa of Dragonfly Custom Design and Celebrations in Grand Cayman.

Tanya & Carl Eldemire's Wedding Teaser

2009-11-09T13:10:00.000-08:00

Tanya and Carl laughed and smiled on their wedding day as much as any couple I've ever seen. Oh, and Tanya may have shed a few tears, too!

Their wedding was textbook-flawless thanks to a great team consisting of John Beran at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, DJ Carl, JR Sterling of Sterling Photography, Tommy Hart of American Audio Visual, and the creative floral design of Flowers of Winter Park.

This "teaser" clip was produced and online within 24 hours of their wedding.

Congratulations, Tanya and Carl!

E-Events Team Photo Shoot

2009-10-28T17:20:00.000-07:00

The ladies of E-Events recently commissioned photographer extraordinaire' Abby Liga to update their promotional material via a fun afternoon photo shoot, and I was invited along for the ride! The still images in this piece are courtesy of Abby.

Special thanks to Lisa, Nancy (or Nan-C, as is her rap name), and Jessy (who was the very first to call me J-Stone) and of course Abby for inviting me to put this piece together.

Ashley & Justin's Wedding Trailer

2009-10-24T07:04:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, Ashley & Justin were VERY married at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes. What a couple, what a party! Assembled by Susie Weiss of Wonderful Weddings, floral design by the always-remarkable team at Flourish Productions, and music by the rockin' Malones, Ashley and Justin danced the night away at an unforgettable wedding.

This wedding "trailer" was produced and online the day after their wedding.

Q & A with Brandi Zrallack

2009-05-06T14:12:00.000-07:00

Brandi Zrallack - Bridal Czar indeed! Watch the video below; you'll understand.

Because of her connetions to both Central Florida Bride magazine and The Perfect Wedding Guide, Brandi is one of those people that sometimes appear to be everywhere. She must be one of the busiest people I know!

And yet, she always has a great smile and great laugh (as evidenced below!) and I was so pleased when she offered -- yes, offered -- to be my next victim in my fun Q & A series! Just last week, I stormed into her office, set up the tripod and rolled tape. There was just as much laughing left on the "cutting room" floor!

Ladies and gentlemen, I hope you enjoy learning a bit more about my friend Brandi Zrallack!

"Just Abby with a Camera"

2009-05-05T11:33:00.000-07:00

Good friend and colleague Abby Liga recently approached me about producing an introductory video for the impending launch of her new website, and there was no way I could decline! I was confident that together we could produce something that reflects her talent, as well as her fun personality. Mission: Accomplished!

Take a look at her video below, and then visit her website. Great work, Abby!

CLICK BELOW TO PLAY

Q & A with Tracy Marini

2009-02-18T07:06:00.000-08:00

From the inception of this off-the-cuff Q & A series, I've had my eye on Tracy Marini of Eventfully Yours. I knew she'd be a perfect subject! Tracy is always a ball of energy and laughs, and if you don't know her personally, you'll feel like you do after this fun session! In fact, this is the first time anyone has threatened to "kick my butt" during an interview. Love ya, Tracy!

Tracy and I are nearly neighbors, living just 2 miles apart in East Orlando. Aside from being a seasoned professional on the job, I always appreciate her ability to keep things light and share laughs (big ones) through the wedding day.

As always, the idea behind these clips is almost a "hit and run" mentality -- low tech, maybe even "no" tech, no rehearsing or do-overs, camera on a tripod and off we go! The entire session takes less than 20 minutes. Hey, wedding professionals, I'm always looking for volunteers, so don't be shy!

Ladies and gentlemen, the one and only Tracy Marini ...

CLICK BELOW TO PLAY

Music I Love -- The Damnwells

2009-02-16T09:12:00.001-08:00

Ok, fair enough. That's a terrible name for a band.

The Damnwells have released 2 outstanding CD's of melodic, wistful music that have the sound of pure Americana. They've garnered great reviews and expectations were high for their new release, "One Last Century", but they were dropped by their record label at the last minute.

In an effort to take control of their career, they are making their excellent new release available for free download. Yep, free! Zero dollars! It's music that I consider impossible to dislike and I hope everyone will take a listen to one of their older songs below -- "Golden Days" -- and then download the new CD. All they ask in return is that you share it with friends! That's fair, isn't it?

Hope you enjoy!

Lights ... Camera ... Color!

2009-01-23T05:08:00.000-08:00

I set out to assemble a collection of clips to highlight the crucial relationship between camera and light, which I hope will provide some inspiration for how to light your own wedding reception!

In addition to focusing on the foreground subjects, notice the warm and romantic background glow provided by the inspired use of multi-colored spot and LED lighting. Through creative lighting, your wedding design will spring to life, enhancing every nuance of your floral decor, cake design, and dance floor.

Nothing will bring out the eye-popping potential of your wedding video and photography in quite the same way as the creative use of background color!

CLICK BELOW TO PLAY

Kirby and Jesse Filar's Ritz Carlton Wedding

2008-12-22T07:43:00.000-08:00

This past weekend I was priveliged to document the wedding of Kirby and Jesse at the Ritz Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes. What a great couple, great setting, great families, and great team of vendors!

Providing exceptional service for Kirby and Jesse was a dream team of good friend Lisa Konecny and her always entertaining cohort Jessy Rivers of E-Events, John Unrue and Ricardo DeVengoechea of Unrue Photography (check out John's new website!), Plumbfun Photobooths, Flowers of Winter Park, and of course the always exemplary staff of the Ritz Carlton.

Kirby and Jesse commissioned me to produce this "teaser" clip to be online within 24 hours of their wedding. The full wedding documentary is yet to be produced, but this short form clip is already making the rounds through their many friends and family!

CLICK BELOW TO PLAY

"Glitz, Glamour, Reveal" - E-Events and Liga Photography

2008-11-05T12:55:00.000-08:00

Last night, Winter Park opened its arms to a fantastic Grand Opening celebration for my great friends Lisa Konecny of E-Events, and Abby Liga of Liga Photography. Their new office -- 230 S. New York Ave in the heart of Winter Park -- was an open-air, under-the-stars cocktail party of the highest order! Fingers were crossed for a great evening, and Lisa and Abby predictably delivered in style!

Congratulations ladies, I can't wait to see what the future holds!

4th Annual Halloween Party

2008-10-24T12:35:00.000-07:00

Halloween -- my favorite holiday! Primarily because it signals the arrival of the annual Halloween party here at the house. Last night's rager was a blast, the house was PACKED with friends and family -- about 60 people -- and I had the best time. The theme, as always, was "wear your favorite t-shirt", and this year the bar was certainly raised. Many of them can't be shown in this PG-13 forum!

To those of you who came, thank you for hanging out and making this year's party the best one yet. To our friends who couldn't make it, you were missed but we look forward to seeing you next year!

Special thanks to Tommy Murphy of Greenery Productions for providing some of these photos (and bringing the wigs!)

Q & A with Richard Streitler

2008-10-14T08:43:00.000-07:00

How better to follow-up my fun Q & A with Brian Joyce than this one with Richard Streitler of Flourish Productions? Continuing in the tradition of these quick-edit videos (or "hit and run" as someone recently called them!), Richard and Brian's sessions were shot back to back before we all went to lunch at Houston's. Need a few hours of laughing? Have lunch with Richard and Brian.

Thanks for being such a great sport, Richard, and for having a really infectious laugh!

Q & A with Garrett Nudd

2008-09-14T21:25:00.000-07:00

My friendship with celebrated photographer Garrett Nudd is valuable to me for several reasons. Not only is he a gifted artist who inspires me on a creative level, but he truly seems to have found the secret to balancing his professional career with his personal life. It's a delicate trade-off, but Garrett and his wife Joy seem to have it figured out.

It's a great time of new beginnings for Garrett and Joy -- not only are they expecting baby #2, but they've also just opened a new couture portrait studio, Cobblestone Rue, in their hometown of Chattanooga, Tennessee. It's gonna' be a great year, and I wish them spectacular success!

Garrett was kind enough to invite me to tag along on a recent fashion shoot here in Orlando, and we shot this fun interview during one of his (very few) breaks!

CLICK BELOW TO VIEW

Everything Old Is New Again

2008-09-07T21:50:00.000-07:00

With all of the recent advances in video technology, I actually feel that video can sometimes look too good; the pristine image sometimes lacks "warmth", for lack of a better term. So, it's always fun for me to produce brief segments that incorporate an entirely different look.

The old 8mm film style that we associate with home movies can be a novel way to liven up a piece. Incorporating less-than-steady camera work, and overexposed, desaturated colors that are all hallmarks of a an old "home" movie, this segment is from just after a couple's wedding ceremony at the Sarasota Ritz Carlton as they were shooting their formal photos.

It's a very distinctive look, and I try not to overdo it with more than just 90 seconds worth. Hope you like it!

CLICK BELOW TO PLAY

Music I Love - Bleu

2008-08-26T23:05:00.000-07:00

Ok, so most of what I listen to is in the "alternative" category, whatever that means. How can music be "alternative", anyway? But I digress ...

I am still a sucker for massive ballads, like the tune below from a guy named Bleu. Stylistically he's capable of anything, but this song from his upcoming new cd is a great, sweeping ballad that I really like. Really melodic and ... well ... melancholy.

The song is called "Go", and I hope you like.

Happy Birthday, Sally

2008-08-20T14:35:00.000-07:00

Sally is my Shetland Sheepdog, and this week she turns 15. Unbelievable. I am so happy that she's still keeping me company in my office every single day. She's mostly deaf now, and is a bit slower to stand up most of the time, but otherwise she's in good health and manages to find me really interesting on a daily basis.

This clip is compiled from VHS footage of the day I brought Sally home in 1993.

Michele jokes (or maybe she's not) that someday when Sally is gone, they're going to have to bury me right along with her.

I really love my dog.

... and this is Sally at midnight, just as she turned 15.

Music I Love - "Je t'aime, au revoir"

2008-08-15T08:57:00.000-07:00

It must be tough for a musician being a "one-hit wonder". Y'know, having that massively popular song and then being identified with it for the rest of your career. More often than not, that one song isn't representative of the rest of an artist's oeuvre, which is definitely the case with Thomas Dolby.

Yeah, everyone knows that dippy 80's hit "She Blinded Me With Science", but it's totally out of place with the rest of his catalog, as evidenced by the song below. "I Love You Goodbye" (below) is fantastic. The lyrics are about some (mis)adventures in New Orleans that are so unusual that it simply must be a true story. More intriguing is the instrumentation, and I particularly love the long opening which features Cajun fiddle, and if you listen closely, a bit of banjo. If nothing else, listen to the first minute or so.

The chorus is sad: "Some words are sad to say / some leave me tongue tied / but the hardest words I know / are I love you, goodbye".

Q & A with Brian Joyce

2008-08-06T22:15:00.000-07:00

I've received many admirable guesses regarding the identity of the mysterious self-portrait, but the time has come to reveal the subject of this latest installment -- Brian Joyce from Flourish Productions.

Kudos to Tracy Marini for being the only person to guess correctly!

Typically, the only time I get to see a florist on the job is just before the reception begins -- the florists are finishing up the details of room decor just as I am arriving to gather the all important room shots. They're on the way out just as I'm arriving. However, even in this short time of frantic activity and fine-tuning, Brian and Richard always have a great attitude and never fail to give me a laugh or two before they reveal their amazing handiwork to the arriving guests. It's always cool to see them doing what they do so very well.

So, without further ado, heeeeere's Brian ... !

CLICK BELOW TO PLAY

Because I Have No Shame ...

2008-07-25T21:53:00.000-07:00

In honor of my recent class reunion (which I didn't get to attend), ladies and gentlemen, my high school senior photo. Hairstyle courtesy of 1983.

All Work And No Play ...

2008-07-23T21:20:00.000-07:00

The "Down The Aisle" experience in Denver was lots of work, sure, but we all managed to have great fun as well. In addition to my existing friendships, I'm especially grateful for my new friends Rolly, Awny, Angela, and the rest of the staff at the Ritz Carlton Denver!

Here's the whole gang, after hours and behind the scenes, making the most of our trip! Thanks to my pal Garrett Nudd for supplying some of the photos.

CLICK BELOW TO PLAY

Q & A with Susie Weiss

2008-07-05T11:32:00.000-07:00

The first installment of "Q & A" was a great success, thanks in no small part to Stephanie Rounds of Nu Visions in Photography being such a good sport. Thanks to my many wedding friends who have expressed an interest in giving it a go!

Round Two goes to the always lovely, always elegant Susie Weiss of Wonderful Weddings. Susie is one of the most highly-respected wedding professionals around, having worked with the area's elite clientele for many years. It's always fun to share laughs with her on the job (Susie, remember the girl with viking shoes?), and together we've participated in some truly wonderful weddings!

Ladies and gentleman, the one and only Susie Weiss.

CLICK BELOW TO PLAY

Off To Denver!

2008-07-03T07:11:00.000-07:00

Two years ago, the Ritz Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes hosted the "Down The Aisle" wedding showcase, which was unlike any other wedding event I've attended. It was a real career highlight for me, working alongside the area's best wedding professionals.

The brainchild of Lisa Konecny of E-Events, the whole "Down The Aisle" shebang will be resurrected in Denver Colorado next week, and I couldn't be more excited to be on her team again. Also returning is Austin Scarlett from season 1 of Bravo's "Project Runway".

As a nifty bonus, the Denver Ritz Carlton is homebase to my good friend Kristy Chenell. In addition to participating in the show, Kristy has also contracted me to produce a video of their executive chef (maybe that will be in a future blog post...?). I anticipate a week of hard work as well as rewarding down-time with friends.

The video below was produced to kick-off the evening's events.

CLICK BELOW TO PLAY

Warren Dietel's 40th Birthday Party

2008-06-25T09:26:00.000-07:00

Unquestionably, the hot ticket last week was Warren Dietel's 40th birthday bash at Church Street Station. While most of us know Warren as the owner of the peerless Puff n' Stuff Catering, many of us also know him as an all-around great guy, fun and friendly, and as you'll see in the video below, he can really rock a white fur coat.

Hosted by his always stunning wife Melissa, the party had an 80's theme and guests were encouraged to dress from the era (which explains my dubious choice of hairstyle for the evening). Vintage videogames, stage performances, and even a mock-up of Orlando's beloved and long-lost diner, Ronnie's, were there, as well as guests dressed as everything from Richard Simmons to Devo to the cast of "The Love Boat". My favorite was Warren's sister Heidi, who wore a classic (?) 80's style wedding dress, complete with puffy sleeves and baby's breath in her hair.

Thanks to Kristal & John of Unrue Photography for the images!

It was a totally good time. Like, totally.

CLICK BELOW TO PLAY

Q & A with Stephanie Rounds

2008-06-15T22:10:00.000-07:00

It recently occurred to me that -- *duh* -- I'm in the video industry, and maybe I could create some content specifically for the blog. I wondered if I could call upon my wedding industry friends to help me out by agreeing to a lighthearted Q & A to learn more about them. Knowing I was shooting with Stephanie Rounds of Nu Visions this past weekend, I asked her to be my first subject. She was a very willing participant, and did a great job by getting into the spirit of it!

I've already compiled several of these and will be posting them periodically, so check back for new installments! And, wedding vendors, if you want to do one just let me know!

CLICK BELOW TO PLAY

Best Music Video EVER

2008-06-03T14:33:00.000-07:00

I am humbled by the brilliance of acclaimed director Michel Gondry. I don't know that I'm even capable of comprehending what goes on in that crazy head of his, so suffice it to say that he is a slightly mad visionary. If you're interested in this stuff, I highly recommend this collection of his work. The more you watch, the more complex it is. Best of all, very little of his work is accomplished through CGI, but through good old fashioned clever camera work.

Here's the best example.

Upon first viewing, it may appear that you are watching 2 different video clips below -- one on the left half, one on the right. In reality, it's just one video -- played forward on the left side, and played in reverse on the right. Same video, shot all in one take. But, the brilliance of it comes from the idea that it is something like a video palindrome, because things happen at the same point in the video in both the forward and reverse versions.

See? It's so hard to explain and yet it's such a simple idea. Remember, it's just one video clip! In fact, it may be more interesting to cover up the right half of the screen the first time you watch it so you can see how it was actually shot, and then watch it again watching both versions.

Does this all make me a giant geek?

Just Marry! Wedding planning DVD

2008-05-27T10:59:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that one of the first contacts I made in the wedding industry was Susan Southerland of Just Marry!. That was 1993, and we remain good friends to this day. I've experienced so many unforgettable weddings with Susan at the helm, and I respect her forward thinking in both the luxury and destination wedding markets.

In keeping with that, she has produced a wedding planning DVD that will surely be of assistance for any bride looking for invaluable tips from the area's top wedding professionals.

In a recent review, Jean Patteson, fashion editor of the Orlando Sentinel wrote: "One of the best DVDs I’ve viewed is JustMarry!: Wedding Planning Secrets by Orlando wedding planner Susan Southerland. She covers everything from selecting a gown, invitations and venue, to working with vendors — photographers, musicians, bakers, caterers and more. Packed with no-nonsense tips for saving time, money and stress, the DVD is aimed at both do-it-yourself brides and those working with professional planners."

Well done, Susan!

CLICK BELOW TO VIEW PREVIEW

"Down The Aisle" ... again!

2008-05-22T20:11:00.000-07:00

One of my professional highlights from 2007 was the "Down The Aisle" wedding show at the Ritz Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes. Spearheaded by Lisa Konecny of E-Events, the show was a fantastic assemblage of fashion, music, floral design, as well as some of Orlando's best wedding artists. It was a great night.

When Lisa shared with me her idea of taking the showcase to the Denver Ritz Carlton in July and asked if I would be interested in re-joining her team, I couldn't say yes fast enough. Signed, sealed, delivered.

This year's show will bring together Project Runway's Austin Scarlett (returning from his appearance last year), photography by Garrett Nudd and Ryan Joseph, Botannica, and DJ Carl. I can't tell you how pleased I will be to see my old buddy Kristy Chenell at her new Ritz Carlton property in Denver.

In addition to creating the opening video presentation, I was also honored to produce the piece of the entire show. It's in 3 parts: pre-show production (including interview with Austin Scarlett), room decor, and finally my favorite part, the fashion show. I love editing this stuff!

CLICK BELOW TO PLAY

Music I Love -- Pugwash

2008-05-19T13:30:00.000-07:00

Oh how I love "power pop". It's a certain sub-genre of music typified by stick-in-your-head melodies and inventive arrangements. As an example, you need look no further than the Beatles because they are the reference point for just about all great power pop. It's not a genre that gets much airplay or garners many sales, but my iPod is stuffed with it.

Here's an excellent example, "Take Me Away" by an Irish band called Pugwash.

A Tale Of Two Sisters

2008-05-12T06:38:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I had the honor to cover the second of two spectacular weddings for Orlando's Dello Russo family. What a great bunch they are, and man, can they throw a wedding!

Thanks to John Unrue for the photo of me and mother-of-the-bride(s), Diane Dello Russo.

In 2004, oldest daughter Tracy was married to Jeff at the Ritz Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes, with a wedding team consisting of Wonderful Weddings, John Unrue Photography, Raining Roses, Beautiful Music, About Face, Weddings Only DJ Entertainment, and yours truly. When a wedding comes off as beautifully as Tracy's did, there didn't seem to be a need to re-invent the wheel when youngest daughter Kelly announced her engagement last year!

It was deja-vu all over again -- in the best possible way -- when we reconvened last weekend for Kelly and Steve's breathtaking wedding. It was so nice to get caught up with the family, and to meet Tracy and Jeff's young daughter Ava! I tell ya, that's one good lookin' kid (and another is on the way!).

My only regret is that we are now officially out of unmarried Dello Russo daughters -- they have the best weddings!

This quick-edit, "coming attraction" clip was online for them the day after their wedding.

CLICK BELOW TO PLAY

Classic Rock; Classic Wedding!

2008-05-09T20:56:00.000-07:00

Below you can experience the highlights from the wedding of Joan and Tom, who hosted an unforgettable wedding at Isleworth Country Club. All of the stops were pulled out for this one! An outdoor evening reception, full fireworks display, and entertainment provided by 60's rock legends Jefferson Airplane. Yep, that Jefferson Airplane. The evening ended with the band changing the lyrics to their hit "Jane" to "Joan", and the bride dancing in the fountain.

Our wedding team consisted of Weddings Unique, John Unrue Photography, Lee James Floral, and Beautiful Music.

CLICK BELOW TO PLAY

Demo-liscious (part 1)

2008-05-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

It's been a 2 month gestation period but my 2008 demo compilation is here! Actually I have another one in the works too which will have an entirely different feel (for that one I'm using music from an Icelandic band called Sigur Ros -- the most otherworldly and indescribably beautiful music you'll ever hear). I'm sure I'll blogblogblog about it when it's done so keep checking back if you'd like to take a look.

Crank up your speakers!

CLICK BELOW TO PLAY

Music I Love -- Amy Winehouse

2008-04-27T23:10:00.000-07:00

I think it's really unfortunate that Amy Winehouse is known more for her tabloid exploits than for her really terrific music. I always try to consider the art separate from the artist. Yeah, she seems to be quite a mess, but take a listen to this excellent track from her current CD "Back To Black". This is music that is alive and vibrant, current while still undeniably having one foot in the soul music of the 60's.

This song is "Tears Dry On Their Own".

Music I Love -- Carbon / Silicon

2008-04-23T11:14:00.000-07:00

My frequent concert mate Curt Littlecott texted last week to inform me that musical legend Mick Jones (formerly of the Clash) was performing with his new band Carbon/Silicon at the Social in downtown Orlando, which happens to be my favorite concert venue. It was a great night, and we were both a bit awestruck seeing one of our heroes up close.

Dig one of their newer songs, "The News". Are the lyrics optimistic or cynical? Maybe neither. Probably both. Either way I bet you're tapping your toes within 20 seconds.

"Impress - Indulge - Inspire" at the Ritz Carlton Wedding Show

2008-04-05T10:31:00.000-07:00

The Ritz Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes hosted a characteristically flawless wedding show recently and I was honored (and humbled and flattered and privileged and grateful) to produce this promotional piece for them. Jennifer Sharpe had the idea to interview past clients about their wedding experience, and I ended up with easily an hour's worth of incredible testimonials. Cutting it down to this 8 minute piece was painstaking!

The video also features photographs by John Unrue and Damon Tucci. Thanks dudes, couldn't have done it without your help!

CLICK BELOW TO PLAY

Music I Love -- The Kills

2008-03-03T10:48:00.000-08:00

"The Kills" are a way cool band from the UK. Well, they're a "band" in the loosest sense of the word, because it's really just 2 people -- male guitarist and female vocalist. Clearly there's a drum machine in there as well. Their music is minimalist, dark, and sexy and I highly recommend their new CD, "Midnight Boom".

This is a track called "Sour Cherry".

From The Archives - "Il Bel Matrimonio Di Italiano"

2008-02-26T11:34:00.000-08:00

Please, please feel free to correct my Italian.

Found this fun clip in the archives today and thought it was worth showing! I had the incredible opportunity to shoot this destination wedding in Southern Italy along with fotografo insano John Unrue. After the ceremony, Mary and Sean (bride and groom) walked across the street to the magistrate's office to sign the wedding register, and were presented with an honorary plate bearing their names. I thought this montage would look great shot in an 8mm film style. An unforgettable experience!

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Mark Pennington and Joi Perkins

2008-02-01T20:16:00.000-08:00

Mark Pennington is a picture-taker in the Jacksonville area. I'm not particularly fond of him, but I do really like his girlfriend Joi (I'm kidding -- Mark is a great friend and a heckuva' photographer). Recently shot a wedding with them in Ponte Vedre, and while shooting some fun stuff on the beach with the bride and groom, Joi took a tumble over a sand dune. I gallantly grabbed her by the arm, and, let's just admit it, I probably saved her life. Mark snapped these photos to commemorate Joi's balletic grace as well as my chivalrous gesture.

By the way, Mark and Joi are responsible for my head shots on my website too. Thanks!

Arf arf arf

2007-09-11T21:29:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows me knows that I really love dogs. What is a blog for if not to immortalize your dog? No? Well, it's my blog. Anyway, my Shetland Sheepdog, Sally, is the best dog ever (runner-up: Lisa Konecny's dog Lola). I can't believe she's 14 years old and still going strong. Ok, she's almost entirely deaf and takes an extra few seconds to stand up, but she's doing remarkably well for her age.

She's always in my office. If I have produced any video work for you in the last 14 years, you can be certain that Sally was in the room when I produced it. Recently she was having one of those "dog dreams" where her feet and eyeballs twitch so I shot a few minutes of this footage.

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