Archive for May, 2008

Indian Christian Fellowship Alumni Reunion
- May 29, 2008 -

The Indian Christian Fellowship is a college ministry at the University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign), which I had attended through my college career there. A couple weeks ago we had a little reunion with graduates from years past (about a decade covered!), and it was an awesome time to reconnect, play some games, eat some food and here what was going on and how things have been changing and transforming over the years. Here are some shots from the night:

A future Illini…

A few reflections…

Yes…it is a mustache! He’s doing a bit of a fundraiser at his church where the elders are growing mustaches (no beards, goatees, or anything like that) for 6 weeks! I think he should keep it even after the 6 weeks :)

The entire gang:

It’s great to be connected with such a rich organization that transcends yourself. Hopefully we’ll be able to get even more of the alumni to come out!

be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.

natemathai | filed under: Modern Events

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[05.26.08] Monday Night Recap
- May 26, 2008 -

• [Photo Challenge] There’s about a week left in this month’s challenge! This one takes a bit more ‘creativity’ and possible ‘work’ than the earlier ones, but I know my blog readers can do it! Looking forward to seeing your work!
• [Cubbies] We’ve hit a bit of a slide lately, but no worries. Still holding strong at #1 in the NL Central…you can’t win ‘em all, right?
• [LinkedIn] I’ve been trying to expand my network/’net-worth’ in many ways, as well as broaden my connections with others. My latest attempt is through the online professional network of LinkedIn. I’ve avoided it before just because I didn’t feel like joining another online network, but I recently recognized just how beneficial it could be. The biggest thing for me is realizing what everyone does! I have many friends in many different industries (medicine, teaching, engineering, business, etc.), but I really never knew what it was specifically. By knowing other people’s industries and abilities, we can find a way to see how we can benefit them, or they might be able to provide help for us. So get connected!
• [Surprise Party] On Friday, I shot Ajoy’s surprise birthday party thrown by his sisters, held at Bin36 in downtown Chicago. Everything was beautifully set up and everybody had a great time. Here’s a detail shot to hold you over until i get them all processed:



• [2 Years] On Saturday, my girlfriend and I celebrated our 2 year anniversary. We don’t always have tons of time to spend with each because she’s normally out in Champaign and we both have busy schedules (even in the summer), but we were able to take a day trip together downtown to Navy Pier. For her sake, though, I left the camera at home (…but I do plan on making another Navy Pier trip this summer for the purpose of taking pictures). We wandered the loop, went to Millennium Park, had dinner at Capi’s, saw a Vaudeville Magician, went on the Ferris Wheel, and took a Seadog boat ride (note: wear many layers on that thing…it’s cold!) All in all, it was a blast and very well needed.
• [CMTC] On Sunday, it was a special time at my home church, as we had two of our diocesan bishops visiting. Because of the occasion, we had a combined service with both our church and the St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church, held in Evanston Township High School. Here’s one of my favorites…:



• [Nap Time] I used to take a lot more naps when I was in college, but I was so drained yesterday afternoon that I took one after church…for 5 hours. During that time, I missed out on a softball game (we try to play softball on Sundays when people are free…first time this summer) as well as an after party/hangout. But I don’t mind…I needed the rest :)
• [Memorial Day] As you probably noticed, this is an early post, because of Memorial Day. I’ll be heading over to my girlfriend’s place for lunch, and then going to my sister’s inlaws for dinner. I like these extended weekends, but I’m dreading a bit to go back to work…going to be some busy times this week. Ah well, so is life…Happy Memorial Day Everyone!

be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.

natemathai | filed under: [MNR]

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Nisha and Joel’s E-Session
- May 22, 2008 -

(Seriously on a roll with this blogging thing! Is it too much, too fast?)

Nisha is my sister, and Joel and her will be getting married this July, so it was about time they got their e-session taken care of (I’ll be standing in the wedding, so I sadly won’t be shooting it)! We all grew up together…myself and my older sisters, Joel and his older sister, and my brother-in-law and his brother. We called ourselves the “Saturday Night Family”…as we basically would spend our Saturday nights together since we all lived within 5 minutes of each (…we were really cool, I know). We all grew up, and these two grew closer…from really good friends to soon to be husband and wife. After I got over the initial awkwardness of my shooting my sister, it turned out pretty well, I think. I figure if I can shoot an e-session my sister…I can shoot anyone! So bring it! :) They braved the semi-cold-not-really-warm weather out here, so mad props to them.

Alright all, got a busy weekend ahead, so you probably won’t see an update again to Monday…that should give you more than enough time to review the recent posts and leave comments :)

be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.

natemathai | filed under: Couples Lifestyle Sessions

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Jane and Alan’s Wedding
- May 21, 2008 -

I am on a roll blogging this week! This past weekend I attended the wedding of my good friends Alan and Jane. If you remember, I shot their e-session and engagement ceremony last year, so it was so great to finally see the ‘culmination’ of it all with their wedding. The wedding was held at the St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church in Lombard, IL, with the reception being hosted by Venuti’s Banquets in Addison.

The arrival (the bridesmaids were singing “Going To The Chapel..” on the way in)…

Hairstyles by Gigi…

This is what happens when you show up late…you are only allowed in after the processional…get with the program, people! :)

The first dance…beautiful…

Alan and Jane…congratulations again! The wedding was great, and I can’t wait to see you guys when you get back!

be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.

natemathai | filed under: Personal

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Dawn and Richard’s Wedding
- May 20, 2008 -

A couple weeks ago I second shot for Kenny Nakai for the wedding of Dawn and Richard, and since he just posted about it, I figured I should get on that too! This was an amazing wedding, with the ceremony being held at the Ss. Cyril & Methodius Church in Lemont, IL. From there we went downtown to the gorgeous Sofitel Hotel for their reception. I talked about it this before, but Dawn had EVERYTHING consistent, which set it up for beautiful night and fun pictures.

The bridesmaids and flower girl carried these hanging boquets, which I hear is less painful on the arms for a wedding:

Speaking of gorgeous, they traveled in style with a classic black and red Rolls Royce, and here’s a glimpse from the drive into downtown:

A few portraits:

I think a favorite:

They hired the 80′s band “The Brat Pack” to dance the night away, and boy was it a blast! Although I was but a few years old during those days, I feel like I grew up on these songs, and these guys were awesome! Everyone had a blast on the dance floor:

Doesn’t this just scream fun times? I LOVE it!

Dawn and Richard, I had a blast at your wedding! You guys sure know how to party and I know you guys are going to have some awesome times to come!

be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.

natemathai | filed under: Personal

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[05.19.08] Monday Night Recap
- May 19, 2008 -

• [Photo Challenge] We’ve got a little over a week left in this month’s challenge. This one requires a bit more ‘creativity’ on your part as the photographer, but should be tons of fun! Get ‘em in!
  
• [Twitter] I tried doing this before, and after one tweet (is that what it’s called?) I stopped. But I’m going to try to get back on this again. Maybe I’ll even start updating my Facebook away message with twitter as I seem to be a bit bad about updating that one either. Soooo…FOLLOW ME!
  
• [Equinox] It happened. I renewed my contract with my gym (after going like 5 times in the past 6 months). But I’m determined now. I met with a Personal Trainer (complimentary) and they told me just how out of shape of was, which will hopefully kick me in the right direction. Wish me luck and make sure I go more regularly!
  
• [Cubbies] Still flying high in first place in the NL Central. Today we take care of the Astros 7-2, capped with an inside-the-park home run by our catcher Geovany Soto. I definitely need to find a way to make it to a couple games this year. Please take me!
• [Children's Museum] So, it seems that through my work, I get free access (along with 3 guests) to the Chicago Children’s Museum. I think it might seem a bit shady for me to walk around there taking pictures of random children, so if anyone is interested in going on a Saturday when I’m free, I’d be more than happy to get you in (…s long as you don’t mind me photographing you and your child).
  
• [Playoffs] I feel like I haven’t been as ‘into’ the NBA playoffs…but its reaching the end. We got Boston vs. Detroit and the Lakers vs. the Spurs. Who you got? I’m not much of a fan of any of these squads, but I think I’d like to see KG get one…he deserves it.
  
• [Podcasts] I have about a 45 minute trip to and from the city everyday, and so many times I try to read during the train ride, but sometimes it’s just not feasible to pull out a book. So I’ve been quite into listening to podcasts, and decided I might as well give you guys a list of a few that I listen to quite regularly (in no particular order):
• Photoshop User TV (video) – Before I even started photography, I’ve been following these guys because they provide quite of few interesting tips and tricks in using Photoshop.
• The [b] School (video) – Becker (photographer) has been putting out these video shorts in prepartion for his online [b] school for photographers. I recommend any into photography as more than just a hobby to check out these videos as he covers many things from contracts to organization and many things in between.
• Desiring God Sermon Audio - A great preacher and author in John Piper provides these sermon podcasts that are very deep and powerful. It takes a bit of focus to really understand, but its amazing and challenging to hear the passion of this man.
• A New Beginning with Greg Laurie – Pastor Greg Laurie is from California and I’ve been following his podcasts for a few years now. He has a pretty laid back approach in his preaching style, and is able to speak clearly and simply well not watering down a message.
• TEDTalks – TED stands for Technology, Entertainment and Design, and it’s been an conference that’s been held for years bringing together the greatest thinkers and doers of our age to share their knowledge. These keynotes have all been posted online, and its very inspirational. Topics can range from advancements in medical science to using the Wii as a virtual white board. It’s amazing to see the potential of our world through these talks.
• Let My People Think (RZIM) - This podcast is from Ravi Zacharias, who is one of the most powerful Christian apologist I have ever heard. His theology and explanation is extremely profound, but again requires focus to truly understand. It’s not something you can multi-task with (…at least I can’t without getting confused).
  
• [Jane and Alan] Last year I had the pleasure of shooting an e-session and engagement ceremony for my friend’s Jane and Alan, and this past Saturday was their wedding! I attended as a guest, but I just had to bring my camera out. I’ll post more later, but here’s a little teaser for you:
  








• [Nisha and Joel] For those who don’t know, my sister is getting married this summer, and so on Sunday I did an e-session with them out in Prospect Heights. Again, I’ll have a more detailed post when I process all the images, but I feel it’s only right I leave you with another teaser:
  






• [ICF] After the e-session, I made my way over to an alumni reunion of the Indian Christian Fellowship, which was a ministry I served in during my time at the University of Illinois. It was a great time to reconnect with many of the alumni as well as recent grads…and you guessed, more images will come later, but for now a tease:
  

be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.

natemathai | filed under: Couples Lifestyle Sessions, Modern Events, [MNR], engagement

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Cabin and Deb’s Wedding
- May 16, 2008 -

I posted a couple teasers earlier about Cabin and Deb’s Wedding in St. Louis a bit ago. I second shot this wedding with Kenny Nakai and he recently posted a bunch of images on his blog, so be sure to go over there to check those out. Here’s a handful of my faves throughout the day. What do you guys think…any favorites from you? I’d love to hear them!

This seems like a good idea, two pairs of shoes! One for the ceremony…

…and something a bit more comfortable for everything else…

Quite possibly my favorite set of images from the whole day. They opted to do a ‘first look’ before the ceremony, so we set Cabin up and brought Deb to him…and then just let them enjoy each other on their wedding day :)

And then a couple more from the relaxed portraits afterwards…

Deb and Cabin, I had a blast shooting your wedding and wish you guys all the best!

be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.

natemathai | filed under: Personal

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[05.12.08] Monday Night Recap
- May 12, 2008 -

• [Photo Challenge] April’s is posted…got anything yet? Have FUN with it!
  
• [Busy] Yep, another busy week ahead. Wedding planning tonight (I know…a year and a half away…madness), physical fitness test tomorrow (so someone will officially tell me I’m overweight), family time on Wednesday, birthday party on Thursday, wedding Saturday…hmmm…I think I have a break on Friday? That’ll fill up, I’m sure.
• [Diversity Day] Have you guys seen the ‘Diversity Day‘ episode in Season 1 of The Office? HILARIOUS! I bring it up because I just had a diversity training meeting thing last week at work, and I couldn’t help but smile. It was more like the guest speaker than the way Michael ran it, but entertaining nonetheless. I did get this nice book of different actions/words that can trigger the buttons of others…I’m thinking of trying a few out soon :) I wish I could go through all of them, but here’s one of my favorites…has this happened to you?



• [Cubbies] 12-3 tonight. I love it…we’ve won 4 straight at home…how can you NOT love it?
• [Kids] On Saturday I went over to my girlfriend’s place to visit since she’s finally back from U of I for the summer, and there were a handful of children under the age of 3 there which was entertaining. (the one in the Old Navy sweatshirt is not under 3, just so you know…)








• [Goodnight] I wish I had more to post for you, but I’m tired. Got anything you want me to post about? Let me know!

be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.

natemathai | filed under: [MNR]

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NMP Challenge Submissions: April-Symmetry
- May 9, 2008 -

This is quite a bit overdue, but here are a handful of images from those participating in April’s photo challenge with the theme of “symmetry”. I thought this would be a bit more difficult than the first, but you guys were able to pull together some quality shots here. To start, my favorite has to go to Taffy out in Philly…I’m a sucker for ring shots…

…side note: reflection shots of tables etc. can be very difficult to set correctly. It all begins with good light (as is with all aspects of photography)…

The rest of these submissions were brought in by Marily (photo credit to Yliram), Leena T and Briana.

[Marily]

[Leena T]

[Briana]

Remember, May’s challenge has already been posted, and I think it’s SO FUN! Get all your friends involved to do some exciting stuff. The theme is music/movie titles, so get creative, set things up, and start shooting! Image you are creating a CD/DVD cover…what would it look like? I’m so excited!

be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.

natemathai | filed under: Personal

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[05.05.08] Monday Night Recap
- May 5, 2008 -

• [Photo Challenge] If you missed the announcement last weekend, the new photo challenge is up, and it’s the most fun to date (at least to me)! I’ll get last month’s submissions up shortly for ‘symmetry’.
• [Dawn and Richard] On Saturday, I second shot with Kenny Nakai for the wedding of Dawn and Richard, with the reception held at the Sofitel Hotel in downtown Chicago. Let me tell you, everything was GORGEOUS! Dawn had consistency from her bouquets to the centerpieces (and everything in between). Here’s another teaser as I go through the images:








• [Nieces] Madelyn is now almost 7 weeks old, so the parents decided to do a little photoshoot of the sisters. (For reference, I think the best time to do newborn pics are around the 12 week mark, when the baby is able to hold their head up steadily for the most part) People say they look like me…what do you think?



• [Another Niece] My family just keeps growing (a bit premature)! Last Thursday my girlfriend’s sister had their second child, and I was finally able to get a glimpse of baby Seylah. Obviously I can’t see a baby without taking a few snaps. I love when baby’s yawn:



• [UPS] You know, I don’t understand why they make their deliveries during normal business hours..especially if they require a signature. I’ve missed my 70-200 because of this…sadness. I need to start sending shipments to my work address.
• [Interviews] Lately I’ve been reading about a lot of photographers being interviewed and such…so I just wanted throw my name in the hat as well! A friend of mine did an interview about my for a paper. It was actually very insightful for me and I recommend everyone to do it consistently even for your own benefit. It made me reflect on my foundational passion for photography and purpose behind it all. It’s good to do this for whatever you are doing consistently as it will keep you more focused and grounded. Oh, and she got an A on the paper! I love knowing my life is worth an A. :)
• [Cubbies] It’s been a tough streak so far, dropping 8 of the last 11. But that’s why it’s a 162-game season…much more to go and we’re still in 2nd in the division. Keep hope alive!
• [Busy Week] Just a heads up…you probably won’t hear much from me this week as I’ve got a bunch of meetings and such throughout. Hope you don’t miss me to much!

be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.

natemathai | filed under: Modern Portraits, [MNR]

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NMP Photo Challenge: May
- May 2, 2008 -

I believe you guys care more about what the next challenge is than what the submissions were, so I think I’ll get into the habit of posting the next challenge earlier, and then the previous month’s submissions. Sound good? Here we go for May:

THEME: Movie/Song Titles

Switchfoot – The Shadow Proves The Sunshine

This is where you guys get creative! The basic premise of this challenge is to think of a song or movie title, and capture an image that best represents that. When you submit your image, please provide the name of the movie or song and the artist as well (as that’s the most important part!).

Simple rules again (I feel like I keep getting more relaxed with this):
- E-mail your submission to challenge@nmathaiphotography.com, with “May Photo Challenge” in the subject line
- Provide a link to your blog/website so I can link back to it
- Image should be a maximum of 500 pixels on the longest side
- Unlimited submissions per person

I’ll hopefully get last month submissions up by Sunday (Monday at the latest). The weather is starting to get better here in Chicago (and I’m sure everywhere else), so no excuses! Get out there and start shooting!

be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.

natemathai | filed under: Personal

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Don’t Waste Your Life
- May 1, 2008 -

In the spring of 2007 I started my corporate job in downtown Chicago, and Binil was interning down there as well. Within my first days there he asked to have lunch together, and it soon became a regular occurrence, both alone and with other friends downtown. Throughout the summer we would talk and share about our lives, our visions for our church, our future, our friends. It was good to have regular conversations to talk to and share openly about perspective.
As the summer drew to a close, he was planning on leaving the city for another job. But he had a vision that went much farther than basic living. He shared with me how he read this book called “Don’t Waste Your Life” by John Piper, and it really challenged him in living for more. He didn’t want to live a comfortable life…he didn’t want to simply go through the motions. He wanted to make drastic changes in the world, spreading the message of the love and saving grace of Jesus Christ beyond our general comfort zone.
He was one of the leaders of our creative arts ministry, and I remember him talking about it many times, as if it were his own child. He wasn’t able to take on the full burden of that ministry in the coming year because of other life callings, but was desperate to make sure it kept pushing through. He shared about how he wanted to do so much more with it. He wanted to evolve the ministry from being one that puts on skits for our church events, to becoming a missions based ministry, making trips to India to perform dramatic plays in areas that don’t know Jesus. And I remember I laughed, because I’m a much bigger ‘realist’ than others. But his passion encouraged me so much. He set his goals high, and the only thing I could do was encourage him to push forth…I didn’t want to be the one to quench his fire. I was so impressed with him, as even just hearing him talk and share, it moved me to really seek more and do more.
He had a vision for many years down the line, but God had different plans to bring him home sooner. Although he’s physically gone from our presence, I can honestly say that his passion still reverberates within me on a regular basis. As I say many times…there is so much more to this life than what our eyes see and perceive. I want to live with an even greater vision. I want to see this world transformed.

be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.

natemathai | filed under: Personal

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