double teaser! : Ann & Jim [modern portraits] // Ann & Greg [modern wedding]
- July 26, 2010 -
On Saturday, I headed downtown with Ann & Jim for their e-session- while most of their session is NSFW (not-safe-for-work) because of Jim, I was able to find a safe one ;)
Then Ann & Greg tied the knot on Sunday- and I’ll tease that one with one of the more timeless moments of the wedding day: the father-daughter dance. Enjoy!
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 Portraits ann & greg, ann & jim, chicago illinois, chicago wedding photographers, e-session, meadows club, modern portraits, Modern Weddings, nate mathai, navy pier, rolling meadows illinois No Comments | add a comment
Ann + Greg : modern portraits [kenosha, wi]
- May 31, 2010 -
Though many times I’m able to meet with my couples during the consultation prior to the wedding, sometimes it’s not possible and we do much of the communication over e-mail. From the first message I got from Ann, though, I knew we’d be a great fit! By the time I met up with the for the portrait session, I felt like I had already known them, which made everything so much easier :)
The weather called for rain, but Ann and Greg were willing to do whatever was necessary to pull off the shoot, and I happily obliged. We were lucky to get the rain to pass us early in the day to give us a short gap of dry times to work with.
I love the way she looks at him-
This is what it looks like just 1 second before a huge wave crashes over the pier :) They were GREAT sports!
Not gonna lie- I hired the bird to make a cameo in this image.
A downpour won’t slow us down from taking a quick stroll along the shore…
Ann and Greg, you guys were troopers braving the cold and the rain. I’m so excited for your wedding this summer!
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 Portraits beach, chicago wedding photographers, e-session, kenosha, lake michigan, modern portraits, nate mathai photography, shore, water, wisconsin No Comments | add a comment
Ann + Greg : modern portraits {teaser}
- April 25, 2010 -
They told the rain to stop for a bit. So it did. And we made amazing images.
True story.
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 Portraits ann and greg, chicago wedding photographers, e-session, greg and ann, kenosha, lake michigan, modern portraits, nate mathai, teaser, wisconsin No Comments | add a comment
Shaina + Aby : modern portraits {elmhurst, il}
- December 16, 2009 -
You probably remember Shaina and Aby from earlier in the year with their proposal/mini-session from earlier in the year. I was able to get back together with them for part two of their portraits a short while back. Shaina is in nursing school at Elmhurst College in Elmhurst, IL, so we worked our way around that campus- I was surprised at how much is around that area!
I love simple body language.
These two are so chill…straight baller. I think this one’s my favorite:
Such a peaceful moment…
There’s something about beautiful architecture/buildings that just grabs me every time.
We then made our way over to a nearby park…who doesn’t like playing in a park?
Sadly, I won’t be shooting the wedding since I’ll be a groomsman, but I’m still looking forward to next July!
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 Portraits chicago wedding photographers, Couples Lifestyle Sessions, elmhurst, elmhurst college, illinois, jungle gym, modern portraits, nate mathai No Comments | add a comment
Susie + Shawn : modern portraits {ann arbor, mi}
- December 9, 2009 -
The drive to Michigan was worth it. :) After a late night wedding the night before, my wife joined the road trip to shoot Susie and Shawn’s session, and they totally rocked it out. It feels kind of weird saying this since these two are only a little bit older than me, but they are DEFINITELY a cute couple. It didn’t take long for them to get comfortable in front of the camera and start putting out some awesome shots!
We started out near at the beautiful Gallup Park in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and the weather was absolutely perfect for us!
I mean, seriously!? How cute is this?
Susie, you made my job really easy. (Shawn…you’re a stud, too)
We then headed out to a local “unnamed” university nearby. :) I must say, I LOVE shooting in campus towns…such great architecture, tons of people…it’s a beautiful place to be.
Their wedding was just a couple weeks later, so I’ll be getting those images up here in a short while too! And that was some MASSIVE fun times, so get ready. :)
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 Portraits ann arbor, chicago wedding photographers, Couples Lifestyle Sessions, gallup park, michigan, modern portraits, susie and shawn, u of m, university of michigan No Comments | add a comment
Jaimy + Sijin : modern portraits {chicago, il}
- December 4, 2009 -
These guys are starting to feel like you’ve all seen enough of them (proposal, e-session 1, engagement party), but you’re not, right?! I mean, you better not be, because we still got their wedding next spring! :)
We chose to go a bit more urban and took to downtown Chicago, hitting up a few of the regular spots (Millenium Park, Navy Pier, Pritzker Pavilion) as well as a few back alleys…we ran the gamut!
After a quick outfit change we were starting to lose some light and wanted to get a couple shots by the water, when I saw this little shed- I fell in love! I could have shot at this one spot all day…
Good thing we didn’t, though, or else I wouldn’t have been able to grab this fave…
Jaimy and Sijin, you guys did it again…you make my job very easy. I’m so looking forward to April 2010!
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
Shaina + Aby : e-session {teaser}
- October 19, 2009 -
I’m not going to lie. I randomly found these two standing like this and covertly took their picture. They might be models.
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
natemathai | filed under: Couples Lifestyle Sessions chicago, chicago wedding photographers, Couples Lifestyle Sessions, elmhurst, elmhurst college, engagement, illinois, lifestyle, photographers, teaserSusie + Shawn : teaser
- October 12, 2009 -
I headed up to Ann Arbor, Michigan for the e-session with Susie and Shawn, and they were a BLAST to work with! I’m excited about their wedding coming up in 2 weeks, but for now here’s a quick tease from the shoot:
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
natemathai | filed under: Couples Lifestyle Sessions ann arbor, chicago, chicago wedding photographers, Couples Lifestyle Sessions, lifestyle, michigan, park, photographers, teaser, wedding No Comments | add a comment
Jaimy + Sijin : teaser
- October 7, 2009 -
My clients make my job ridiculously easy.
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
natemathai | filed under: Couples Lifestyle Sessions chicago, chicago wedding photographers, Couples Lifestyle Sessions, downtown, lifestyle, millenium park, photographers, urban, wedding No Comments | add a comment
Rolly + Ben : e-session {evanston, il / glencoe, il}
- August 12, 2009 -
I knew from the first time I met with these two that they were going to be an awesome couple to shoot, and boy did they come through! We did two separate sessions for them in July, one near the Lake in Evanston, IL with a more casual look, and then the second at the Botanic Gardens in Glencoe, IL where they went a bit more formal. Regardless of where we went or what they wore, they were still amazing in every shot.
We got them started in Evanston…
This one makes me laugh every time I see it :)
Are you kidding me? definitely a favorite…
We then went out to the beautiful Botanic Gardens in Glencoe, IL, where the put on some more traditional garb. We had a bit of a scare with some rain early, but it cleared up right when we started walking and led to some gorgeous shots.
Since the shoots were in two different locations, I can have multiple favorites right?! Because this is IT! I’d want to blow this up and put it above my couch, but I don’t think my fiancee would like that to much :)
I seriously just told them to go stand up against this building, and this is what they gave me.
Oh, and we’ve got to finish it off with a little hula fun times from the first session! :)
Rolly and Ben, you guys were AWESOME! I’m looking forward to shooting the wedding after I get back from the honeymoon- it’s gonna be off the hook! :)
***now that I am all caught up with my shoots, I will be officially taking me leave from the photography world until the end of the month for my own wedding/marriage. Thanks for your patience as I will be a little delayed in responding to any inquiries during this time. I’m getting married on Saturday!!!***
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
natemathai | filed under: Couples Lifestyle Sessions beach, ben, bontantic gardens, engagement session, evanston, glencoe, illinois, lifestyle, photography, rolly[2009.08.03] Monday Night Recap
- August 3, 2009 -
- [Wedding Planning] Yep, that’s pretty much where all my time has gone. I have nothing else to write about, so sorry if you were expecting more :) It’s less than 2 weeks away, though, before I’ll officially be considered a “husband”. Doesn’t that sound crazy?!?!
- [Still Editing] Though I’m done with shooting until after the wedding, I’m still working hard to get past shoots edited and posted. Don’t think I forgot about you all! :) So here’s another tease of the last two shoots that I’ve been working on…they should *hopefully* be hitting the blog soon:
{Alphy + Sony : Wedding}
{Rolly + Ben : E-Session}
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 Weddings, [MNR] No Comments | add a comment
Rolly + Ben : e-session {teaser 2}
- July 27, 2009 -
On Saturday, we had the second part to Rolly and Ben’s e-session. I’m so excited to show you guys all of them, but for now…
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
natemathai | filed under: Couples Lifestyle Sessions No Comments | add a comment
Rolly + Ben : E-Session {teaser}
- July 6, 2009 -
Here’s a quick tease from the mini-session I had this past weekend with Rolly and Ben out in Evanston, Illinois-
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
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Nimisha + Shibu : E-Session {Evanston, IL}
- June 11, 2009 -
I don’t travel much- the farthest west I’ve gone is St. Louis, MO. Outside of family trips to India and Canada (and flight changes in Europe), I haven’t really been outside of the US. So I sometimes get jealous of people who do. Like Nimisha and Shibu, who’ll be having their formal engagement out in Africa! How cool is that?!?! Nimisha’s family is out there, so they get to take a nice trip there at the end of the month, and I’m very excited for them. One day, I’ll get out there…one day.
The three of us got together a short while ago to get some pics of them – we started out at Old Orchard Mall, where people thought they were some sort of Bollywood celebrities, I think! I’m just really blessed with good looking clients, I guess :)
Have I ever told you what my favorite tree is? Oh, its SYMMETRY! (bad joke? I was a math major, deal with it) Seriously though, I love the lines and balance in the next two images…
We then headed out to get more pictures near the lake in Evanston, IL. I have much respect for all the ladies who choose to take “by the water” pictures- It seriously gets cold out there, but you could never tell with the way they look!
We finished off the shoot at the Ba’hai Temple, where the gardens were a bit under construction but were still able to get some awesome shots.
Favorite? Yep, I think so, too!
I had a blast wandering the area with you guys, and wish you all the best with your upcoming wedding this winter. Have fun at the engagement!
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
natemathai | filed under: Couples Lifestyle SessionsJeanne + Phil : E-Session {Chicago, IL}
- June 2, 2009 -
I shot the e-session of Jeanne and Phil a little while back, and like most of my recent shoots there was a threat of rain that wasn’t fulfilled (phew!). Jeanne flew out from Cali so we wanted to make sure we got the shoot in while she was in town, and luckily (outside of a cold breeze as the night progressed) we were blessed with great weather. These two have been doing the ‘long distance’ thing for awhile, and I always have much respect for that because it’s a tough thing when you don’t see your fiancee all the time- but you could obviously tell the distance truly made the heart grow fonder for these two.
We met up at Millenium Park in downtown, Chicago, and made our way around the area.
This shot makes me smile everytime I see it :)
Love it!
I loved the lines in the Pritzker Pavilion…
The storefronts in downtown are always beautifully lit – and Phil was pretty interested in trying to get some new outfits too!
We ended the night with none other than this BALLER shot! :) I must say – the skyline in Chicago looks good from wherever you shoot.
Phil, I’m glad we got to give you a bit of Chicago to take with you to Cali. Congratulations to both of you, and good luck with all the planning for the upcoming engagement ceremony, and more importantly the wedding in September!
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
natemathai | filed under: Couples Lifestyle SessionsWeekend Teasers!
- May 25, 2009 -
I’ll leave the commentary for when I post the full sets from this weekend’s shoots, but for now a little tease!
Jeanne + Phil {Chicago, IL}
Nimisha + Shibu {Evanston, IL}
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
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Alphy + Sony : E-Session {Elmhurst, IL}
- May 12, 2009 -
After Alphy and Sony’s awesome engagement ceremony, they regained their energy and we headed out for a portrait session at Eldridge Park in Elmhurst, IL. The whole week leading up to it, we were slightly concerned about rain in the forecast, but luckily we were met with beautiful skies and great weather this day!
Isn’t she just stunning?!
This is quite possibly my favorite set from the session-
I LOVE the way she looks at him here…
BALLER! (they seriously were models in a past life or something :))
You guys were a blast to work with, and I’m so excited for June 20th!
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
natemathai | filed under: Couples Lifestyle Sessions No Comments | add a comment
Alphy + Sony : E-Session (teaser)
- April 20, 2009 -
This past Saturday, I spent the day with Alphy and Sony shooting their formal engagement ceremony during the day followed by their e-session. It was such a fun day from start to finish, and we were blessed with beautiful weather in Chicago finally! Here’s a little tease from their e-session that afternoon.
I’m looking forward to posting their full set soon enough, so get ready for that!
Still To Come:
- Young & John’s Proposal
- Life Community Church’s In-Between Service
- Jaimy & Sijin’s Engagement Ceremony
- Alphy & Sony’s Engagement Ceremony/E-Session
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
natemathai | filed under: Couples Lifestyle Sessions, Formal Engagements, Modern Events, engagement No Comments | add a comment
Aby + Shaina : A Proposal (Arlington Heights, IL)
- April 16, 2009 -
I had known Aby pretty much my entire life, but we only got close near the end of our senior year of high school – the decision of choosing a place of higher learning started conversation. We both attended the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, were roommates starting our sophomore year, had the same group of friends, served in ministry together – pretty much watched each other grow up. And it was great to hear that he had found the love of his life in Shaina, friends from the same home church. And I know say it every time, but I love hearing about relationships that grew out of a friendship – those are the best!
I took a couple pics of the ring for Aby, so that he’ll have something tangible after the whole proposal :)
They are going to be having a formal engagement ceremony in June, so they wanted to take a couple quick pictures for their save the date cards – at least that was the story Shaina heard. Little did she know that, while they were ‘waiting for me to show up’, Aby would pop the big question!
I got to Lake Arlington and got into my position to avoid being seen (its rough when the girl knows who you are!). Here’s a look at my view while I waited (massive props to Jaimy and Sijin for getting me some Starbucks, as this was immediately after their e-session):
I got a text from Aby when they arrived, and then the sniping began.
Their close family/friends were there hiding out to be the first to congratulate the newly engaged couple!
As promised, we did a quick photoshoot to give them some save-the-date images to work with. I think this first set really pictures their relationship:
Shaina’s sister and her college roommate supposedly had a “picture with them sitting on a rock” that she requested…might not be the same one, but it’s a nice “picture with a rock” right? (might just be my preference, but I’d make this a 20×30 canvas to hang in a hallway)
LOVE IT!
Their wedding will be in the summer of 2010, so we’ll be having a ‘fuller’ e-session later this summer, so definitely keep an eye out for that!
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 ProposalsJaimy + Sijin: E-Session (Part I)
- April 8, 2009 -
You guys might remember Jaimy and Sijin from the New Year’s Eve proposal earlier this year. They are going to be having a formal engagement ceremony soon, and so we recently set out to have a mini-session to get some images for their save-the-date cards in time for it. We’ll be shooting the second part of their e-session later this summer as they’ll be getting married early 2010, so definitely keep an eye out for more to come!
I’ll do a bit more commentary when I post the second session so you get to know these two a bit better (I’ve known them for most of my life!), but for now, I’ll just let the images do the talking with a few of my faves. We headed out to Elmhurst College where Jaimy went to school to get these awesome shots. Enjoy!
Decided to have a little multi-exposure fun with this…what do you think?
Shortly after entering a stairwell, a nice security guard came in and told us the building was closed. Luckily it was “open” long enough for us to get a couple shots :)
Gotta give some props to Jaimy for spotting this building as we were leaving Elmhurst. I really think they’ve done this before…
We ended off with a quick trip to a lake- the dock had a gate, but that didn’t stop Jaimy and Sijin. This next one could have been my favorite…
…if we didn’t get this one! BALLER!
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 PortraitsTeaser #3: Jaimy + Sijin (part I)
- March 30, 2009 -
You guys might remember Jaimy + Sijin from earlier in the year with their New Year’s Eve proposal. We got back together last weekend for part one of a two part e-session, so here’s a quick tease for them as well!
I LOVE TEASERS! Maybe instead of ever posting a full set, I’ll just continue to do some teasers on and off…what do you guys think? ;)
One more shoot from last weekend to tease later in the week…
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
natemathai | filed under: Couples Lifestyle SessionsNate Mathai Photography | 2008
- December 25, 2008 -
I’m a bit of a people watcher. I find myself in an area, watching the subtleties of the interactions between people. What I see is not simply the kiss between the couple, but the shy smile and glance she gives him immediately afterward. It’s not the laughter of a child being thrown in the air by her father, but the look of anticipation right before she is lifted up. It’s these moments before and after ‘the moment’ that get my attention, and play a huge role in the story that I tell through my work.
Throughout the past year, I’ve had the honor and privilege of being asked to participate and document the important moments in the lives of many. Here’s a recap of 2008 (I also have done a handful of family sessions and events, but I wanted to keep these images more…couple-y… ;)).
[04.26.08] Deb+Cabin for Nakai Photography
[05.31.08] Dawn+Richard for Nakai Photography
[06.07.08] Namratha+Lenie
[06.07.08] Dianna+Joe
[06.20.08] Nisha+Joel
[06.28.08] Soumy+Jiju
[07.05.08] Linu+Sunil
[07.12.08] Linzy+Christiaan
[08.23.08] Sherry+Phuc for Nakai Photography
[08.24.08] Sudha+Stinson
[08.30.08] Liza+Shibu
[09.13.08] Carolyn+Chris for Nakai Photography
[10.04.08] Susan+Jason
[10.11.08] Julie+Mark
[11.29.08] Michelle+Suresh
Once again, a big thank you to all of my clients (or as I like to call them, friends) for allowing me to have the greatest job ever. You all make it so easy for me! :)
2009 is right around the corner, and I’m looking forward to some awesome things to come. If you are interested in learning more about my services or availability, head over to the contact section and drop me a line! I’m looking forward to connect with all of you a bit more in the years to come.
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 Portraits, Modern Weddings, engagement[08.04.08] Monday Night Recap
- August 4, 2008 -
- [Photo Challenge] Was the last challenge that difficult? I haven’t received a single entry…how sad is that?!? Well…as always, there’s a grace period, but I’ll have August’s challenge up in the next day or so.
- [Wedding Photographer] Especially when you are a photographer, one of the most common questions asked is “Who’s going to be your wedding photographer?”, which is commonly answered with “I am. I’m going to set up the cameras on tripods with a remote in my hand and get everything I need.” Seriously though, it’s a tough choice…I know of so many amazing photographers that it’s hard to narrow it down. Setting a budget helps a bit (but you’re always willing to bend on it!).
One thing I plan on doing from now until the wedding is ‘feature’ a couple photographers that I would have loved to shoot my wedding if money/location/time/etc. were of no issue whatsoever. And it would have been cool to have it all lead up to the actual photographer chosen around my wedding next year, but it’s not possible, because I’m going to post some images of his shortly :). I’ll probably still ‘feature’ him at the end with an explanation of why we chose him, but for now, here he is: Kenny Kim (of Kenny Kim Photography).
- [The Proposal] People have been asking about the who/when of the proposal for quite some time now (including my now fiance :) ). It was quite difficult planning one with the busy-ness of our schedules this summer, and more so my sister’s wedding last weekend (can’t steal her thunder…that’d be mean of me). When I met with Kenny earlier in the year, we were trying to find a time for a mini e-session because we wanted to get a couple of images in time for our traditional engagement ceremony/party in a few weeks. He was able to find time for us this weekend in the midst of his nationwide travels, and I immediately knew what I wanted for the proposal.
We scheduled to have our e-session at the beach, and God blessed us with some BEAUTIFUL weather (more on that to come). And so our plan was to meet up with Kenny at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum in Lincoln Park, and then walk over to the beach. Nithya and I got to the museum a little early, and I texted Kenny to see how long he was going to be (we’d been texting back and forth for the moments prior to set everything up). In the back of the museum was a pond and a bit of a cross-platform over it, which would have been a perfect place for the proposal. The only problem was there was a wedding being held at the museum, so everything was closed off…there were some people from the wedding party hanging out on the platform too. So I took Nithya around the back to walk around while we ‘waited’ for Kenny (…Kenny was making his own pathway through the bushes and found a way up on the platform). Nearby that area, I found a little rocky area just next to the pond, so I stepped in to see if I could get on the platform from there…sadly we couldn’t. But it was a nice enough place, and I knew Kenny could see us there (I spotted him because I was searching for him to make sure, luckily Nithya didn’t)…
After a few more random words, I turned, looked at Nithya, (insert words here), got down on one knee, (insert more words), pulled out the ring, asked her if she’d marry me, she said yes, I put it on her finger, and stood to hug her with the applause of the wedding party. By that time Kenny moved into plain view where Nithya saw him. Here’s one of the shots he got:
- [The E-Session] We carried on the rest of the day as planned. We headed over to the beach to get a handful of shots and call it a day. Let me tell you, it’s very awkward being on that side of the camera. With a camera in front of my face, I never have to worry about my facial expressions or what not…luckily, weddings/e-sessions are all about the girl so I’ll be out of focus in a majority of them :) . There will be more to come, but here’s one that Kenny got to us so far:
- [The Cubbies] As I posted before, Nithya bought us Cubs tickets for my birthday, and we went on Sunday afternoon (after church and getting her ring sized). We had a great view and experienced a great win…Zambrano pitched a decent game, back-to-back-to-back doubles, after being down 2-0, and then after the Pirates tied it up with 3 in the 8th, the Reed Johnson hit a pinch-hit two-run homer to put us back up by two, followed by a solo shot by Soriano. And then Marmol closed it off for the win as expected. For my first (and probably only) Cubs game this season, I can say I was satisfied.
- [The Power of the Ring] I’ve noticed that there is a lot of power that comes with a diamond engagement ring. Prior to the proposal, the perception was it being in my ‘possession’. And with that, I got a lot of attention…everyone asking me about it, when’s the proposal, how am I going to do it, etc. Now that she has the engagement ring, I get nothing. The occasional congrats, but that’s it. Now, its all about her. Every question is now directed to her and I’m all alone. Woe is me…woe is me. :)
A model?
This fun friend helped lead the YMCA in our area…here he is donning the construction hat and the cowboy hat…
The anatomy of a swing, by Derrick Lee (I seriously think he has one of the most beautiful swings in all of baseball – if he would just stop hitting into so many double plays)…
The anatomy of a close, by Carlos Marmol…
version2…
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
natemathai | filed under: Couples Lifestyle Sessions, Personal, engagementLenie & Namratha’s E-Session
- June 20, 2008 -
I knew Lenie and his family growing up, but then awhile back they moved out to Atlanta. After graduation, he found a job as a Math teacher in the Chicago Public School which brought him back around, and we re-connected since I came back from U of I. Lenie and Namratha met while they were in college, and have been doing the distance thing for a bit as she is still out in Georgia, but she was able to come down for a recent weekend so we made sure we got a session in for them. We took a stroll around downtown Chicago in some great weather (though the weatherman told us we’d experience rain…silly weathermen). The wedding is going to be out in Atlanta on July 12th, so it’s right around the corner!
Now I don’t do many images with textures, but I knew I had to with this one right when I snapped the picture…
And I love this set…It’s great when my clients are willing to stand in the middle of the road just before a truck comes at them…
Lenie and Namratha, I had a blast with you guys and wish you all the best on your wedding day and married life to come. See you guys back in Chicago in the fall!
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
natemathai | filed under: Couples Lifestyle Sessions[06.09.08] Monday Night Recap
- June 9, 2008 -
I know it’s past midnight, but I just got back from a fun dinner with the Bebbs and some others (I’ll update with links to their sites/blogs when I have a bit more time).
- [Photo Challenge] I know I’ve been very delayed on the last results (apologies), but remember: the new one is already posted!
- [Summer League] Last year we had an amazing time at the first annual Summer Basketball League, and since it was met with such great enthusiasm, we’re doing it again! Get the word out because registration ends June 30th and the season starts on Sunday, July 6th. We can only take a maximum of 90 players, and we’re a third of the way there (in only about 2 days), so hurry up! (side note: for anyone who registered this weekend prior to 10am this morning, you need to re-register as our system went down and we lost your info…sorry guys!)
- [Things To Come] You’ve probably noticed a few changes going on here, most obviously with my new imge brand. It’s just the beginning, as I have some changes coming up hopefully at the end of the month. Keep an eye out…here’s a blurry teaser…
- [Boda Bag] I ordered the original Boda Bag and I got it in the mail this past Friday, just in time for an e-session and wedding. I borrowed Kenny‘s when I second shot with him and I knew I needed it…I’m happy!
- [Lenie & Namrita] On Saturday morning I shot an e-session for Lenie and Namrita in Chicago, who are getting married in Atlanta July 12th. Here’s a quick favorite:
- [Dianna & Jeff] After the e-session, I had a quick break before heading over to shoot the wedding of Dianna and Joe. Of course, I’ll do a more thorough recap later, for now I’ll let a few picture talk:
- [ABDCv2] Anybody watch the live casting of the second season of America’s Best Dance Crew? I’m impressed with a couple groups, but a little upset with a few of the crews that advanced. What do you think? I’m thinking its Supreme Soul will take it all…quote it here.
- [The Bebbs] The Bebbs were in town all the way from Vancouver, Canada for their Bebbinar Seminar this week, so a bunch of the photogs got together for a dinner at Weber Grill downtown. It’s always a blast hanging out with everyone. Sadly, regardless of how late I get in…I still need to wake up early. Ah well, so is life. Goodnight everyone!
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
natemathai | filed under: Couples Lifestyle Sessions, [MNR] No Comments | add a comment
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 No Comments | add a comment
[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"After" & After…
- December 20, 2007 -
I normally don’t post the process of my image corrections and things of that nature, but I decided I would post this one just to give an idea of the type of retouching that’s available. Now, this isn’t “Before & After”, as the retouch happened on a partially processed image already. This was taken from an earlier e-session with Jane & Alan.
Originally, I performed some basic adjustments and color correction to the photo, as I do with all images. Then, I performed my secondary processing, what I like to call my “creative” or “artistic” processing. I don’t do this with every image, and it varies from shoot to shoot. Some people go crazy with these things, and although I do enjoy them, I only try to make these types of adjustments when I feel it will truly add to the image. At this stage, this is what the general final print would look like:
I really liked this picture, but there were a couple of things which jump out that could be improved. If I could go back in time, I would have moved the yellow cones out of the way, as well as asked the drivers in the cars to move (where were the drivers?…who knows…but I still wished they moved). Instead of just giving up on the image, though, it proves to be a great example what a little extra time and effort can get you. After a bit of editing, I was able to get this:
Many people who just saw the first one image might be pleased…but doesn’t it feel better knowing what’s possible with the second?
My goodness it’s late…good night everyone!
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
natemathai | filed under: Couples Lifestyle SessionsJane & Alan’s E-Session
- November 5, 2007 -
So you’ve seen me blog about these guys a few times now, and this past weekend we were finally able to do their e-session. The weather was great for a stroll through downtown, so I had a lot of fun with them. It took a bit of time to get comfortable with being followed around with a camera, but they eventually warmed up to it.
For those that know them, you know how fun and entertaining they are in and of themselves…put them together and it’s so much more entertaining! It was a blast wandering the city and seeing them interact, and hearing their story. I must say, it has to be the greatest thing when people start out as friends and grow into a relationship. Such an interesting past, a fun present, and an exciting future to look forward to. I can’t wait to shoot their actual engagement in a few weeks. I love this job!
be sure to visit the contact page if you’re looking for a chicago wedding photographer, available nationwide.
natemathai | filed under: Couples Lifestyle Sessions No Comments | add a comment
