Photo Art Workshop Coming Soon! Stay tuned for details
Mat Crawford
Amy and Eric - Are Going To Get Married!
2010-06-02As a wedding photographer it is common to shoot a bride and groom exiting the church in a sea of bubbles. When Amy and Eric told me that they brought bubbles for the end of their engagement shoot I immediately thought these bubbles would be like wedding bubbles. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that they were huge bubbles, and toy story ones no less. Shooting a couple in love and topping the evening off with a huge bubble fight was a great experience. Right from the get go, Eric and Amy were comfortable enjoying the moment with each other and as a photographer I could not ask for anything else.








Good luck on all the preparation for the wedding, and we can't wait to be a part of your day.
Beth:
These are excellent, especially the second one that is all curvy :)
Emily:
Super cute!! Congrats!!
Alexia:
Amy,
These pictures are beyond perfect. I think they represent your personality as a couple. Also--I am loving your color choices. It makes it even more adorable (if possible)! Thanks for sharing!
Jazmine:
Amy these are really beautiful pictures!
emily:
so great, i love the one when youre walking away--so pretty, and this park or whatever it is looks beautiful.
Eric Sacia:
Pictures look awesome! Thanks for your work on them! Amy and I had a great time!
Eric Sacia:
Pictures look awesome! Thanks for your work on them! Amy and I had a great time!
Jenn:
The bubble pictures are adorable! perfect for a chem-e and early ed teacher :)
Whitney Millenbaugh:
Nice pictures! They look great and are really creative!
Becky Nied:
Nice shots, they arent the old stand there and smile shots. Liked how he arranged the shots. Cant wait to see the ceremony and reception pics!
Jami Florin:
You two look so happy! The pictures are beautiful, I cant wait to see pictures of your big day!!!!
Joe Kalis:
WOW, My little girl looks like a movie star. The photographer really did show the true Amy & Eric.
Britt:
You two are adorable!!!!!! Love the pics. Gorgeous <3
Amy S:
Absolutely beautiful photos! I can tell how much in love you are!
Jen H:
Love the bubbles, you guys are so cute.
Amy Baratuci:
I looooove the bubbles :) You two are so adorable, Im so happy for you!!!
rachel rathjens:
Amy, you look gorgeous! You both look so happy! Congratulations
rachel rathjens:
Amy, you look gorgeous! You both look so happy! Congratulations
Candice :
Amy! You are gorgeous! Everything about these pictures is stunning! How exciting :)
Thomas:
I find it sweet that you two are blowing bubbles together, but I find that using a large amount of bouncy balls more effectively creates fun and mayhem.
Mary Beth :
These are beautiful!!!! Looking forward to the big day!
Cara :
Love, love, love these shots! So happy for you two :)
Evan:
They look good! I hope your feet didnt get too muddy. I remember the ground being a little soft that day.
Jean:
These are super cute, you guys. I LOVE the bubble shots -- Amy, you look especially adorable in the last of the bubble photos. Cant wait for the wedding!
jboone:
Love the bubble shots
Amy:
Mat, these turned out so beautifully! I am beyond excited! Thank you!
Mallory:
Wow! These are marvelous! Amy, you are beautiful, and you guys really do look so natural and at ease in each and every one. I especially love the pic of you guys behind the flower - a very unique shot! Where the heck are you?
Thanks for sharing the link!
Amy:
Mat, these turned out so beautifully! I am beyond excited! Thank you!
Mat Crawford
Stephanie and Jonathan Married
2010-05-29It takes a special person to not only have the intelligence to become a medical doctor or a veterinarian, but also have the desire to care for people and animals as well. Stephanie, who is beginning her residency as an emergency room doctor at Emory, and Jonathan who recently completed his education to become a veterinarian have these rare qualities. I was only able to spend a day with them, but that day was enough to see that Jonathan and Stephanie were not only great people, but they are great for each other. It was a pleasure and we wish them luck in Atlanta.












I have been wanting to try out this next photograph for a while. I was pleased with the results.


Stephanie and Jonathan were real troopers. When we arrived at the church Kristin and I noticed this fire escape on the side of a building covered with ivy on the church grounds. Stephanie, high heals and all, with the assistance of Jonathan hiked up the escape. even though they ran into a few gnats up there, the pictures were worth it.

These next few shots remind me of an old mission out West. I think the shot on the right below is my favorite of the day.

Although this is the second time we have photographed the wedding party in a tree, this one was a bit taller than the last. One of the bridesmaids asked if they qualified as one of the most adventurous groups I have shot, and the answer is yes.





I am a huge fan of the cake smash. You only get to do this once, so why not have a ball?


Night shots are quickly becoming my favorite thing to shoot. It is certainly tricky, but I love it. It is not possible with every reception venue or schedule, but when it is right it is a great addition to the day.


Barb :
Unbelievable pictures!! I have NEVER seen anymore beautiful wedding pictures than these!!! I am literally sitting here in "awe"!!!
Kate Hamm:
Just wonderful, happy photos! Congratulations! Happiness always
Dolcee Hoffman:
The pictures are beautiful. The photographer did an awesome job.
Dolcee Hoffman:
The pictures are beautiful. The photographer did an awesome job.
Rhonda:
These are so creative, unique, and well done - but the real reason I love them so much is you both look like you are enjoying yourself so much! What a wonderful way to capture your wedding! Best wishes....
Stephanie:
Thank you! Thank you! I love them!
Gina Wargo:
My favorite was the bubbles. I agree that you really look happy. What a wonderful wedding.
May you be blessed with as much happiness going forward. I also liked the guys in the trees, and the multiple exposure. My hubby just loved your camera lens!!
GW
Angie Absten:
These are some of the most special and very professionally presented wedding shots I have seen. You both look so genuine and happy and not stiff or tired. Bless you all.
Russ:
Fantastic photos that were classic as well as creative! All the shots were superb and I loved the fire escape photos.
Karen:
What wonderful photos! You look SOOOOO Happy!
nicole:
Cheers to the Bride and Groom! What stunning pictures you two beautiful people took.
Jesse Boone
Davy and Angela Engaged!
2010-05-28Never have I had more fun at an engagement session. Part of that has to do with my new mentality. Since going to WPPI this spring and spending a week with Mat and Jim I've re-evaluated my business and my life. I realized that I was treating my art like a job, and although I do think it is the best job I could ever have, I don't want to be a "factory photographer" doing the same things over and over and just making money. I want to give people an experience that they will remember. I want to use my camera and my eye and my heart to show people they are loved.
Another huge reason this shoot was so much fun has to do with this amazing couple as well. Davy is one the best friends I've ever had. I was really close to him and his family through-out high-school and beyond. They introduced me to skiing and snowboarding and homeschooling and big families. He and his family (Davy is one of seven kids) took me in when I was in need of friendship and support at the age of 15 and we were close ever since. My siblings also grew very close to Davy's family and my brother David will soon be in Davy's wedding on July 24th. A great tragedy hit Davy's life and his family on December 28, 2000. His Mom, sister Kilty, sister Arundel, and brother Tully lost their earthly lives in a car accident on the way to go snowboarding. Kilty was my age and is responsible for introducing me to my wife Nelli. She and Arundel, who was my sister and brother's best friend, were two of the most remarkable people I will ever meet. No words can ever describe impact of their loss or their lives. A couple years ago Davy met Angela. She has brought such joy to his life that I have not seen in years. They just had twin boys together who were appropriately named Tully and Talon. These boys are such blessings to Davy and Angela. Nelli and I loved seeing how these two interacted with their boys.
This was an unusual session for me. We originally planned on just getting Sushi and catching up, but when Davy asked to do the engagement pics I knew it would be special. However, I was limited to my one lens with no light modification. Normally, my art is substantiated by my tools. This time would have to be different. We started the session with Me, Nelli, baby Zoe, Davy, Angela, baby Talon and baby Tully at Sushi Hana in Missoula - a great way to start! We all enjoy trying to blast our heads full of as much wasabi as possible until you feel it at the top of your brain.

We then decided to go for a walk. And I could almost hear the Red Hot Chili Peppers when I took this shot.

Next, we headed to the orange street bridge where you can see the city of Missoula in the background. Supposedly Angela is not the type who likes her picture taken, but I couldn't tell. I think we all felt like it was more of a double-date anyway.

They enjoy being with each other so much. I know that emotion can fade in years of marriage. Having been married for 11 years, I can say that this joy and love is still possible deep into a marriage. Nelli and I were fortunate to be inspired by the love that Davy and Angela share.

Soon the boys had to get involved. Nelli is the best person I could ever shoot with. Not only did she have some great ideas, she kept 3 babies completely chill for the whole time.






Here's a shot of us all together. Nelli and I couldn't stop talking about how great this experience was. Photography is about capturing beauty and love, so that it can be remembered and constantly inspire us. Davy and Angela, you are awesome together and we love you. We wish you the very best with your family and with the upcoming wedding. It was a treasure to see you and spend this time with you and I'm sure we will do it again.

Mom:
Jesse, I was so close to tears while looking at these pictures and reading what you wrote. I felt so blessed to see this, I still might cry. Its pure joy - this gift.
Vicki Voegelin:
Davy told me all about this day and what a great time all of you had!
Jessy - You captured not only the experience that Davy spoke of but all of the emotion that he told me was there too! Well done!
I am so glad that all of you had that time together and that you got to meet THE BOYS!
Maryann Koopman Kelly:
Jesse, youve got such an amazing talent for photography! These images are awesome and your words and descriptions made me feel like I got to watch from the sidelines. Keep up the great work - youve got a gift!
Davy and Ang - I am so happy for you guys. Beautiful boys and a great life ahead of you. Ive been married for a year and a half and I wouldnt ever go back. Now you just have to come visit us in Ireland so my Evey can play with the twins! :)
Take care and much love,
Maryann
Jesse + Dani Gilge:
Congrats you guys, awesome pics and a beautiful family.
jesse:
Super Fun engagement shoot and an awesome time with a great friend. I think every engagement session should start with wasabi as well.
Shani:
Congrats, Davy & Angela -- on the babes + engagement. Another lovely photo shoot by Jesse & Nelli! These were so fun to see.
Jesse Boone
Shani and Roger
2010-05-27I grew up in a small town called Seeley Lake, Montana where boys ride bikes on back woods trails and built forts. When I was 14, a couple kids moved in behind my house. There were some woods and a trail between our houses, and before long we were traveling that trail often. Joel and Shani became good friends. When I became reconnected with Joel a couple years ago through facebook, he told me Shani was getting married in Portland. She looked at my work and decided to have me come out and photograph her special day in Portland, Oregon. I nearly went to college in Portland and really like that city. I was excited! I knew it would be a super cool wedding, but I underestimated. It was a great time! Shani and Roger were the perfect combination of romance and humor. We had such a good time together that I think we were two of the last people that left. Here's a preview of their day...
Roger is an artist with wood. He made Shani the most amazing wooden bowl that told the story of their relationship.


Here's a bit of the Romance I spoke of...
And here's a bit of the humor...

The whole event was at the same location in downtown Portland, so we instantly were drawn to this red wall across the street.








We decided to go outside late at night. These were two of my favorites by far. Fortunately we got out of the tracks just in time. 
Thank you Roger and Shani for bringing us to Portland. It was such an awesome experience. May your marriage be blessed. I'm really happy I was able to see you and your family again.
Mom and Dad Hodge:
Beautiful Bride + Handsome Groom + Adorable Wedding Party + Happy Family and Friends = An Absolutely Wonderful Day! Thank you, Jesse and Nelli, for capturing their day so beautifully! Anxious to see the rest!
Caroline Harris:
What gorgeous pictures guys! You will always treasure those. God bless you both.
Caroline
Quenty:
A very nice wedding! It was my favorite of all my daughters. I like the blue star-lite effects on the street photos.
Heather Crockett:
Just beautiful! It shows your personalities so well!!! Congrats to you both!
Tyler Fitch:
The pictures on the red wall are phenomenal and I wish we didnt have a schedule conflict and could have been there to celebrate the day.
Tim Harris:
These are some of the most beautiful wedding pictures I have ever seen. What an amazing day and an amazing couple!
I was blessed to be a part of it!
Tim
Jesse:
Hi Shani and Roger and Joel. Thanks for everything. What an amazing experience. I should have your full gallery up where prints can be ordered by the end of the week. Hope you have a wonderful honeymoon
Jesse:
Hi Shani and Roger and Joel. Thanks for everything. What an amazing experience. I should have your full gallery up where prints can be ordered by the end of the week. Hope you have a wonderful honeymoon
JP Bridlewood:
I taught Sunshine Roswell everything he knows... congrats my brotha.
Monte Griffin:
Great pix, looking forward to seeing the rest!
Rosanne:
Well of course the pictures are great, their in Ohio! :P Congratulations on a beautiful day!
Chris:
Awesome pics of an awesome day! Congrats you kids!
Chad:
very nice, love the shots out on the middle of the street with the whole wedding party
joel:
jesse and nelli....
what a wonderful eye both of you have. thank you for sharing shani and rogers wonderful night with us. i know i have a photographer someday if i ever tie the knot!
Nina:
WOW.
Amazing and awesome!!
How do we get copies?? :) Well done.
Neat to meet you both - safe travels to you!
Nina
Jim:
WOW...GREAT PICS!!! I absolutely love them all but Id have to say the ones with Shani & Roger in front of the red wall are my fav; both of you just came alive. Hats off to Jesse & Nelli, you definately knew how to capture a special moment in every photo! Roger & Shani, thx again for letting us all be there with you...love you both.
Dori:
Wonderful photos!! So full of personality.
Congrats Roger and Shani!!!
Shani:
Jesse + Nelli -- THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! We love them all! It was so great to see you again, and this blog was definitely a bright spot in my crazy week. Words are not enough. Bless you!
Kristi:
Jesse, thank you so much for coming out. It was good to see you again and meet Nelli. What a lucky man you are! Your pictures captured Shani and Rogers personalities so well, and the shots of Shani and her Dad- priceless! Bless you both!
Yelena Thayer:
I love those pictures ,You guys so much fun....
and both look goooooood...I would like to have some picture of you.Hope to see you soon for a dinner.
Love, Travis and Yelena and of course JACOB..
Sam:
I LOVE them!!!!!! you two are tooooooo cute and we were one attractive bridal party!
Joanne:
These photos are absolutely beautiful and bring tears to my eyes! I love you kids!
Roger Hodge II:
Thank You all for being there for us! Jesse and Nelli you two are so awesome! These are amazing! Cant wait to see the rest! Thank you!
Miranda:
I LOVE the last 2!!! What amazing photos!
Nelli:
Shani, you were so beautiful! Thank you so much... Roger and Shani for letting us be part of your day.
Christina:
So great to finally see the photos! Such a fun day!!!! :)
Mat Crawford
Kristy and Mike Married.
2010-05-23I once had a professor remark to another professor that I am one who almost bites off more than he can chew. It might be fair to say that, but I believe the old analogy that just as pressure turns coal into diamonds, so does pressure lead to greater results. Most wedding photographers do not finish editing all of the wedding pictures within a month of the wedding. I do not have statistics on this, but I have gathered that it takes a while for most photographers to edit and post a wedding. At Finest Moments we take all the photographs from the wedding day (from 1,200 to 2,400), delete any unwanted shots, crop them, adjust lighting, and then do touch-ups and creative lighting options. If we only take two minutes on each shot it will take a minimum of 40 hours. This is all before we custom design the album from scratch. The pressure comes in when we give our selves a goal of one week to accomplish this after a wedding. It usually takes two weeks, but it is faster than the industry standard. Why do so you ask? The answer is simple. Wedding photography is not only our livelihood (which causes us to never sacrifice our quality), but it is also our art. And, it being our art, it gives us great pleasure to hear of the joy of our clients when they see our pictures so soon after the wedding day. We know they will have our album to cherish for the rest of their lives, but it is in the time right after the wedding when the honeymoon is not really past that we as photographers are able to share in that joy.
With that, I give you the wedding of Kristy and Mike. I hope all who know them are able to relive their great day through these photographs. And for the wonderful couple, I hope they can experience that day afresh.

























mike and mom:
MIKE AND KRISTY: The photographer really captured your special day. The black and white photos are sharp. Kristy, you look so pretty.Congrats...
Terri & Mike:
Mat,
You did a great job on the pictures. Mike and Kristy will have
wonderful photo memories . Congrats to both of you!!
Terri & Mike
Jen:
You guys look great. What a fun day!
Cindy:
Great job. Really captured their day!!
Jeremy:
One of a Kind! They did an amazing job capturing your day like they captured Kim & Is day.
Mike:
Great pics and great wedding!!
John:
Great photos and awesome wedding!
Nicole:
Wonderful pictures! You did an amazing job! Congrats, Mike and Kristy!!!!
Kristin Flickinger:
Beautiful pictures. Congrats, Kristy and Mike!
Cecilia:
Beautiful pictures, and a beautiful wedding!!
Brenda:
This pictures are amazing! You guys did a great job, again! I loved the outside ones! And it was a very fun wedding!
Renee:
I love these pictures!! Kristy, you looked so pretty!!
Diana and Dad:
Mat: You did an awesome job capturing my son and daughter-in-laws special day! We loved your creative eye! Looking forward to viewing the rest of the photos. You created a casual but professional atmosphere!
Danijela:
What a fun wedding! Kristy looks absolutely stunning!
kendra kalkeuth:
BEAUTIFUL pictures. I especially liked the outdoor shots.
Kristy - you were a lovely bride.
The last of the 4 great Ks to be married!!!
Kendra
Kathryn:
you both looked great! Congratulations!!!
Kim :
Wonderful as expected! They are amazing.
Elizabeth Basel:
Kristy&Mike,
Your pictures look absolutely amazing! I love the one in the park when everyone has their umbrellas up! You both look stunning, not to mention insanely happy! Congratulations! I hope your life together is full of love and happiness with nothing but good things to come!
Gabrielle:
Amazing photos Kristy!!! You look absolutely beautiful!!!
Kate:
Great photos. Kristy looks magnificent!
Katie:
Gorgeous pictures! Totally worth going out in the rain!
Slaz:
Mat,
Superb job on all these photos. I am sure Kristy and Mike will treasure and enjoy them each time they view them through the years. Ill be sure to recommend your services to anyone I run across that is seeking an excellent wedding photographer.
Slaz:
Mat,
Superb job on all these photos. I am sure Kristy and Mike will treasure and enjoy them each time they view them through the years. Ill be sure to recommend your services to anyone I run across that is seeking an excellent wedding photographer.
Dave:
Mat,
Looks like you really did a solid for Mike & Kristy by doing such a fantastic job! Keep up the good work, mate.
Mike:
Mat,
You did an awesome job with the pics (including having to deal with the rain). Thanks again for your help. Great Work!!
Deb:
Mat: You captured the day for Kristy and Mike just like you did for Kim and Jeremy. We couldnt be more pleased. Cant wait to see the rest of them. Thanks again, deb
Miranda:
I love the Father Daughter dance one... really looks like you captured the moment!
Kristy:
Mat,
I have been checking the blog religiously to see if you posted our pixs. I do not have words enough to say how much I love them!! They look fantastic! Thank you so much!!
Previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 Next








