Mariel Garza Photography

Abigail - 1 year {Plano, TX}

2012-01-13T16:16:00.001-06:00

This precious one year old has grown up so fast! It is so fun to see babies reach various milestones, especially if you only see them a couple times a year. I met the Gross Family a year ago when Abigail was just 10 days old and she was a doll then. Now this beautiful baby girl has more personality than ever before.

Katrina told me that she was quite the flirt now, but sometimes kids get camera shy. Not this time. She was smiling and laughing all the way through our two hour session!

Lucas {Baton Rouge Newborn Photographer}

2011-11-08T21:43:00.001-06:00

15 hours in the car for a 36-hour visit. Without a doubt, it was worth it to help welcome baby Lucas to the world.

Barbara and Zach had so many cute outfits for Lucas -- "My First Halloween", "Little Monkey", and "Pumpkin Head" to name a few.

I cannot wait to watch this little guy grow up!

Madeline + Gracie {Richardson Children Photographer}

2011-11-05T18:13:00.001-05:00

The holiday season is upon us! Now with Halloween out of the way, we are on a collision course with one of the busiest and most rewarding parts of the year. How will you celebrate this year? What traditions will you continue -- or will you start a new one?

This morning we met Elizabeth and Michael to take pictures of their family with the newest addition, Gracie. Their oldest daughter, Madeline, has grown so much since our first session a year and a half ago.

Joey and I love seeing our clients grow over the years, especially when they are as cute as this family.

We still have availability for family sessions before the holidays, but reserve your spot now before it's too late! Please send an email to mariel@marielphotos.com to schedule a session.

Jackson { Arlington Newborn Photographer }

2011-11-03T23:20:00.001-05:00

Jackson was hoping to have his pictures taken on the day the Rangers won the World Series, but unfortunately the game was postponed...and no World Series Championship was brought back home to Arlington.

Though at times it takes a little more patience, there is something about needing to tiptoe around a sleeping infant just days after coming home for the first time. Watching dads skillfully change diapers and mothers soothe their first born child so naturally, as if it is second nature, warms my heart.

PEACE. HOPE. UNCONDITIONAL LOVE. I think these are perfect words to describe the thoughts and feelings of all parents toward their children -- especially new parents as they embrace their newborn child.

I love being able to witness these priceless moments and capture portraits that will freeze that moment in time forever.

"A baby will make love stronger, days shorter, nights longer, bank balance smaller, home happier, clothes dirty, the past forgotten, and the future worth living."

All of his little hats were just too cute! I hadn't seen this dinosaur one before and it was precious!

Lucy {Dallas Newborn Photographer}

2011-10-06T20:30:00.001-05:00

I take full credit for the birth of this precious doll baby...well, at least the joining of her parents. Therefore, anything good that comes from this marriage is an instant pat on the back for me:) Now introducing Lucy Bosco Milner.

Despite occasional halts for a diaper change or feeding, Lucy was a perfect angel. Seriously. She whimpered a bit while being given a bath, but other than that she was perfect!

Yvette {Austin Senior Portrait Photographer}

2011-10-03T23:26:00.001-05:00

It's that time of year again, calling all Seniors class of 2012! I couldn't think of a better setting than the Texas Hill Country and Downtown Austin to kick off my first senior session of the year. I could get used to waking up every day to sixty-degree weather with highs in the upper seventies. Not only was the air crisp, the morning light coming through the canopy of trees was incredible. I think I am made for Texas fall weather.

Not everyone can pull of the soft smile with as much light behind the eyes as Yvette, but let me tell you, she was rockin' it! I swear she must have been practicing her poses in front of the mirror before our shoot:)

Although I could have happily stayed at the park all morning, we decided it would be fun to add some versatility and color to the pictures and head to South Congress.

Yvette's three-year-old little brother didn't think it was safe to take pictures in the middle of the street, but I am glad we took the risk! I wish we had been a little closer to downtown for this shot, but I think it still turned out great.

If you or anyone you know is interested in taking senior portraits, please contact us at mariel@marielphotos.com. We are traveling gypsies so please don't hesitate contacting us even if you are outside the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex.

West Family {Plano, TX}

2011-09-09T00:47:00.000-05:00

Oh my! What a perfect way to spend the first pleasant day we have had in a LONG time! The West Family is a creative bunch, as you will quickly find out from the photos. They were all such naturals. I hope you enjoy looking at the photos as much as I did taking them.

Genuine is a vocabulary word of the week for my 1st graders and I can't think of a better adjective to describe the West Family.

The boys did not think the whole "let's read a book" was genuine at all… but I thought it was cute!

Take a look at the grin Simon is giving his mom… That smile just might keep him out of trouble:)

The WEST family!

Launch of our wedding brand {Mariel & Joey | Wedding Photography}

2011-08-27T09:01:00.002-05:00

Thank you to all our amazing clients in the past year and a half! Due to all of your support, we are very excited to announce the launch of our wedding brand, Mariel & Joey | Wedding Photography:

The story begins in the Fall of 2009 shortly after our wedding. It's a simple story: boy marries girl, girl loves to take pictures, boy buys girl a new camera. The camera purchase was treated in the same manner used to buy Mariel's engagement ring - we read every single book, article, and online forum we could find! Finally, after much deliberation, we took the plunge and bought our first "grown-up" camera. Little did we know that this decision would snowball into many more to follow.

With even more studying and practice (Joey is a geek at heart), we decided to follow our "gut" feeling and start Mariel Garza Photography. Our goal was to help others capture the love and joy in their lives (while also growing our business). We have been lucky to work with great clients varying from newborns, families, and weddings. All of the sessions had their unique impact on us, but the weddings really touched us and strengthened our own marriage. In order to dedicate the time and energy needed to shoot weddings, we decided to launch Mariel & Joey | Wedding Photography.

Mariel & Joey | Wedding Photography is composed of a husband and wife team, Mariel and Joey Garza. We compliment each others strengths and supplement each others weaknesses. We believe that having two photographers at a wedding is essential and enables us to capture not only every detail of your style but also the range of emotions that will take place throughout the day -- from the first spritz of hairspray until the last sparkler goes out.

Photography is the one cost that will leave a lasting memory. Hopefully with a great photographer, all the other details and events that are a blur at the end of the day will be captured by us to tell YOUR story!

Overall, we tend to have a photojournalism approach and try to be as non-obtrusive as possible when capturing every aspect of your style including priceless candid moments and the good ol’ fashion formal photo to put on the mantle. Our style is reflective of your style.

We would love to meet you for a cup of coffee and discuss in more detail our rates and services and customize a package that fits your needs.

Sarah & Jeff: Wedding {Alvarado, TX}

2011-08-16T21:48:00.001-05:00

"I can't tell you how much I love all of our photos. You and Joey captured the best day of our life just as I had hoped. They are amazing, thank you so much!!" --Sarah. This is the type of response we strive to get from every client. So without further adieu. I will let the photos do the talking!

Slideshow:)

Schwarz Family {Fort Worth, TX}

2011-08-15T18:27:00.001-05:00

As I opened the door Saturday morning my reaction was similar to one of a child who saw snow for the very first time…only it was RAIN! Thankfully we had planned to meet at the Schwarz's house and go from there, depending on the heat. Little did we know it would be raining. Have no fear, the rain did not stop us from having a phenomenal session. Chris and Bethany live in a cute old house with loads of character, so we were able to snap great shots in the comfort of their own home. Jonah was a perfect angel through the entire session and fell right to sleep for his morning nap once we wrapped up. Stress free -- just how I like them:)

Dollar Days at the Dallas Arboretum!

2011-08-14T20:57:00.004-05:00

Although we had some doubts about taking pictures outside in August, it turned out to be the "coolest" day we have had in a while. There were actually a few clouds in the sky! It just so happened that Thursday was also the day that broke our streak of ALMOST record-breaking days of temperatures over 100. It worked out perfectly for us, but I think many people were actually a bit disappointed since we were only one day shy of tying the record. Oh well!

These little munchkins had a good time cooling off with the frogs once we were all done!

Mr. & Mrs. Taylor: First Look { Alvarado, TX }

2011-08-09T23:15:00.003-05:00

Sarah and Jeff weighed the pros and cons of seeing versus not seeing each other before walking down the aisle. After some contemplation they decided to go the non-traditional route. Although not traditional, "first looks" tend to be very intimate. Brides and grooms are able to soak up the moment without having 200 sets of eyes on them the first time they lay eyes on each other! No one likes to miss their own party, but you don't want to rush photo opportunities either. First looks allow the bride and groom to take all of their formal portraits before the wedding begins and get some alone time that they wouldn't get otherwise. Quite frankly, I wish I had done this at my own wedding.

More to come soon!

Sarah {Fort Worth Bridal Portraits}

2011-08-08T22:09:00.001-05:00

Sarah was wise enough to have her dress altered and ready to wear in the spring before the Texas heat hit in full force. Not to say that it was "cool" at noon in April, but it was significantly cooler than a STEAMY July day for sure. Sarah and Jeff go to the Reata for their anniversary every year. Thus, it was only fitting we started on the rooftop of Reata before we made our way around Fort Worth!

More to come from their wedding soon!

Elijah: Newborn {Austin, TX}

2011-08-03T18:56:00.001-05:00

I've come to the realization that with every newborn photoshoot, you have be prepared for a few things: some peeing, pooping and an occassional feeding. Cheesecloth can be your best friend and is cheap enough to throw away. Bean bags are really comfortable and newborns feel like they are in the womb when properly placed...Be sure to buy a vinyl one -- they are a lot easier to wipe down:) Another requirement in your bag of tricks is PATIENCE! As many of our best friends and siblings are having children the question has been posed to Joey and I when we are going to have kids... we are open to God's will.... That being said, in an ideal world our twins aka 5D Mark II a & b are our pride and joy right now:)

On the other hand, Joey and I couldn't be more proud to be the Godparents of sweet Elijah! As if his preciousness wasn't enough for us to melt, he was an angel during the entire photoshoot! He even brought tears to my eyes when we "dressed" him as the Hungry Caterpillar! My favorites are when he would smile after his mommy or daddy kissed him or said his name!

Sarah + Jeff: {Show Us Your Style}

2011-07-19T22:17:00.009-05:00

As wedding photographers, we think it is very important to get to know both the bride and the groom before the hustle and bustle of the wedding day, aside from the initial wedding consultation. Recently, Joey and I met up with Amy Karp, a seasoned and well-respected wedding photographer in Dallas. One inspiration we gained from our time with her was to offer a “show us your style session.” About a month before the "big day" we schedule a time with the couple to make sure that we are all on the same page for the wedding day and also give you a mini-engagement session. This gives couples the opportunity to get to know our style behind the camera and us the opportunity to find out what makes them smile:)

Jeff and Sarah will be tying the knot August 6, 2011. Joey and I are both looking forward to freezing moments in time for them to treasure for the rest of their lives.

Lucy & Penny {Dallas, TX}

2011-07-18T13:54:00.004-05:00

The Armbristers decided that, while they were taking care of their two sweet granddaughters for the week, they would surprise their son and daughter-in-law with a priceless gift for their 10-year wedding anniversary. As far as I know, Penny and Lucy kept it a secret for two months. Today I got an email from Mrs. Armbrister saying "Cody and Brooke loved the photos. They were so surprised and touched. Brooke kept saying it was the best gift she had ever received." I love making memories and putting smiles on people's faces!

Paige & James {Plano, TX}

2011-07-05T21:58:00.003-05:00

I know I say this often, but when I have such cuties to work with it really makes my job easy! I had just been to an adorable infant/children's boutique, Little Lam Boutique, oohing and ahhing over tutus and headbands, deciding if I should buy some to keep in my bag of tricks. When I arrived at the Baumgartens, I found out that Paige had a wall full of bows and headbands! Jorja said she didn't buy a single one -- they were ALL gifts! If you ever want to give a precious gift, a tutu, matching headband, and pearls are too sweet for words, especially on a sleeping baby. For the cherry on top, you could make it last a lifetime and buy a newborn session with Mariel Garza Photography.

Abigail {Plano, TX}

2011-06-30T18:34:00.002-05:00

WOW, it's amazing how much a baby changes in six months! I had the privilege of taking Abigail's newborn photos when she was just 10 days old and six months later here we are again. Abigail had the "model" look down. She was able to show her beauty without even cracking a smile:) Okay, maybe we got a few. I know at times this can be stressful for parents when they smile all day every day, but I will take a precious baby just "taking it all in" over tears any day! I am excited to see how much she grows over the next 6 months!

Evan {Dallas Arboretum}

2011-06-21T17:34:00.002-05:00

Keys rattling, bubbles blowing, silly faces being made, songs being sung, favorite toys given and taken away and peek-a-boos coming from behind the camera lens. After walking around the Dallas Arboretum early on a Saturday morning, I have been inspired to go back. Only this time not for a photo shoot, but primarily to make a video montage of all of the parents and photographers trying to get small children to laugh, just as they would any other given day. By the way, I am no exception to any of those above techniques! If you decide to make a video give me fair warning, so I can really ham it up!

If you are ever contemplating what to give a loved one, I can guarantee a portrait session will be one they can appreciate for a lifetime. We will even customize a digital card for you:) Julia, I hope you enjoy the sneak peek and can treasure these moments for a lifetime! Aaron, give yourself a pat on the back for thinking outside the box!

Jacqueline & Brandon {Dallas, TX Wedding}

2011-06-16T19:18:00.008-05:00

Brandon and Jacqueline met while attending graduate school at SMU, so it was only appropriate to for them to get married on campus. The Allens' had a very intimate wedding ceremony at the magnificent gothic-style Cox Chapel inside of the Highland Park United Methodist Church. After the wedding the two braved the heat and took photos around their favorite spots on campus before heading over to Del Frisco's for their reception dinner.

slideshow

Braxton {Georgetown, TX}

2011-06-13T14:32:00.003-05:00

In the last month, we have taken portraits of five one-year-olds -- with each session we have increased our ability to keep the kiddos happy and capture them in their true element. We have also decided that technology is our best friend:) We love Yo Gabba Gabba and most one-year-olds do too! One of our first clients was Braxton's older brother Nathan. Braxton and Nathan are almost exactly a year apart. It is eye-opening to reflect on how much our business has grown in the last year.

Golberg Family {Richardson, TX}

2011-06-04T10:26:00.002-05:00

As my first official day of summer, I felt it was only fitting to post a family from the school where I teach, Northwood Hills Elementary. The Goldbergs were the lucky winners of the NHE auction item donated by Mariel Garza Photography. Thanks for your contribution to NHE. I hope you all have a splendid summer!

Alberts Family {Las Colinas, TX}

2011-06-02T23:28:00.002-05:00

Memorial Day weekend is generally known as a time for friends and family to get together, eat a little, drink a little, and perhaps catch a few rays poolside. This year Mariel Garza Photography had great joy capturing priceless moments for several families who were in the area for the holiday weekend. The Alberts were visiting all the way from New York! Aunt Adrianne decided that, for Aidan's 1st birthday, she would buy her sister a gift to treasure for a lifetime;) Thanks for sharing these special moments with us and enduring the Texas heat, humidity, and unusually high winds.

Horner Family {Allen, TX}

2011-05-31T07:14:00.003-05:00

Aside from 50 mph winds, this session had all of the key components! A crisp morning, a family full of laughter and joy, a precious one-year-old who was quite the model, and, to top it off, clean restrooms;)

Kiefer Family {Grapevine, TX)

2011-05-16T22:58:00.003-05:00

Could the weather this weekend get any better? I am thoroughly enjoying the crisp and cool mornings while they last. Summers last a long time in Texas! I have decided anytime small children are involved in photos, a fun grandpa is key to success! Between Drew's baby blue eyes and his infectious smile he got when Grandpa and Dad made him laugh, we had a perfect setting!

Wille Family {Grapevine, TX}

2011-05-11T00:04:00.001-05:00

I met Karen and Mike along with their sweet family last summer when they celebrated their 40th Wedding anniversary! This time around the kids were even more adorable than I remembered and the weather and overall setting was perfect! I love customer loyalty and being able to watch kiddos grow up over the years. I hope to continue this yearly tradition with the Wille family:)

Sahar {Dallas, TX Bridal Portraits}

2011-05-08T20:56:00.003-05:00

The moment you've all been waiting for…OK, the moment I've been waiting for! Sahar and Rob tied the knot last night, thus now I can post her stunning bridal portraits. These photos were taken in the courtyard of Stanley Korshak as well as at Off the Grid, a fantastic South Dallas wedding venue! So great that Joey and I got married there! It truly is a hidden gem:) Thank you Bruce for opening your place up to us for a couple hours.

jessica + carlos = elijan {Austin, TX}

2011-05-05T21:31:00.003-05:00

After a delicious brunch at Z Tejas, Joey and I had the pleasure to take some fun maternity photos of Jessica with her husband, Carlos. As my first Maternity session, I wasn't quite sure what my style was, but Jessica and Carlos were the perfect candidates to help broaden my portfolio, especially Jessica! In honor of Mother's Day we have special rates for Maternity portraits sessions. Please contact me for more details:)

Anne & Joe {Fort Worth,TX Wedding}

2011-05-04T21:56:00.008-05:00

Anne and Joe tied the knot at the Belltower Chapel and Garden in Fort Worth, Texas. If you are looking for a quaint chapel with picturesque stained glass, a distinctive belltower and enough space for both the ceremony and reception, then check this place out. Not only did they find a gem of a venue, but Joe & Anne hired a band that played the crowd. From cocktail hour classics to upbeat party tunes, Trey and his crew know just how to get the party started. Trey & The Tritones were rated "Best Party Band" in 2010 by the readers and staff of Fort Worth, Texas Magazine. Congratulations to Anne & Joe on a beautiful wedding! Thank you for choosing Mariel Garza Photography as your wedding photographers and allowing us to capture your big day!

Gerschefski Family {Waco, TX}

2011-04-29T21:56:00.002-05:00

Last weekend we drove down to Waco to meet the Gerschefski family on the campus of Baylor University. I had never been on the Baylor campus and neither had they, but we decided that might be our best bet in Waco and it turned out great! 8 a.m. on Easter Saturday and campus was lifeless but the boys were full of life and brought us much joy!

Jake & Colin {Downtown McKinney}

2011-04-14T23:16:00.002-05:00

I could follow these two around all day, especially Colin! He started posing as soon as he got out of the car. Most three year olds want nothing to do with photos, but Colin couldn't get enough! Jake was a trooper too. Never too cool for school and a terrific big brother despite the occasional beating by his three-year-old brother!

Sarah {Grapevine Bridal Portraits}

2011-04-09T09:58:00.001-05:00

Sarah came to me about a month ago inquiring about bridal pictures. She felt a bit embarrassed because she has been married a couple of years, but didn't like a single one of her wedding or bridal pictures. "I had just moved to Dallas and went to the bridal show and picked a random photographer… I should have known when he didn't even have an off camera flash that the pictures wouldn't be good." Being a girl who displayed pictures of her grandmother and mom in their wedding dresses at her wedding, she didn't want to have regrets about never retaking her bridal portraits. How could I pass up an opportunity to take pictures of a beautiful bride whose portraits I could show off immediately! Sarah said her she isn't going to preserve her beautiful Maggie Sottero dress because her favorite childhood memories were playing dress-up in her mom's wedding dress, and she wants her future daughters or nieces to have the same opportunity:)

Sandler Family: {Dallas Photography}

2011-04-06T22:57:00.000-05:00

I can't believe my little buddy Chase has already turned one! It seems like just yesterday I took impromtu "maternity" pictures for Amy, the week she was due, on our school playground! I'm looking forward to taking annual photos of the Sandler Family and watching Chase continue to grow:)

Mike + Rachel {College Station,TX}

2011-03-02T21:42:00.010-06:00

Between Rachel's killer smile, rockin' bod, fabulous heels and Mike's sheer charm, these two made waking up early on a dreary Saturday morning seem so effortless!

Rachel and Mike are planning to tie the knot in the Dominican Republic on February 24, 2012!

Andrew: Class of 2011

2011-02-14T20:51:00.001-06:00

After a week of snow days and freezing temperatures, it finally warmed up enough to not only be bearable enough to leave hibernation bright and early on a Saturday, but it turned out to be a beautiful day!

I couldn't have asked for a better candidate to kick-off my senior sessions than Andrew. He started off a bit shy and before I knew it he was getting honked at by all the traffic going down Main Street.

Andrew is a senior at Legacy High School and will be attending Texas A&M University next year. WHOOP!

Now is the time to start scheduling and taking senior portraits. So if YOU or anyone you know needs some done, please do not hesitate to send me an email. I have a limited number of senior sessions I will be taking this year, so ACT NOW:)

Cards for every occasion!

2011-02-12T16:18:00.004-06:00

We can turn any photo from a photography session into a greeting card to share with family and friends. Whether it be a wedding, engagement, graduation, or birth, we can personally design a unique card to fit your needs. The cards come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials so the possibilities are endless!

What a Difference

2011-02-04T12:27:00.002-06:00

"What is professional editing?"

This is a frequent question I field from my clientele. Basically, I make the photograph really "pop" by increasing the levels, contrast, and sometimes vibrancy during my editing process. As you see below, this makes quite a difference. This type of editing is included in the first round of edits.

I have also included some of the color treatments I can provide for you photographs. For the most part, I try to keep the images true to original color with an occasional black & white treatment, but many options are available. I have demonstrated some of the more popular options below.

Be on the lookout for a post in the future showing how I can remove blemishes, even out skin tone, smooth skin, brighten eyes, and whiten smiles.

Abigail Rose { Newborn: 10 days old }

2011-02-02T19:33:00.003-06:00

The challenge in taking infant photos is all of the "unknowns": what will the client's house look like, will there be good natural light, should I expect the baby to be colicky or sound asleep, or how controlling will the parents be? Needless to say, patience is always a must for all parties involved. Katrina and Geoff had a beautiful house, great props (bows, blankets and baskets), easy-going personalies, and a precious baby girl who was so comfortable her parents decided they would reenact the photoshoot when she wakes up in the middle of the night!

sahar + rob {Dallas, TX}

2011-01-23T12:32:00.014-06:00

Sahar is one of the funniest, most witty people I know and Rob is a perfect Prince Charming who has won her heart of gold. These two have been a model couple for Joey and I since the beginning of our relationship. We are thankful that they are back in Dallas and are now getting hitched after spending the last 3 years in New York.

I knew when Sahar asked me to take their engagement pictures that I wasn't going to have to do too much coaching or posing, because their natural chemistry around one another is more legit than anything I could try to create. The love between these two is the "rough tough real stuff!"

Abels Family {Addison,TX}

2010-12-28T23:22:00.003-06:00

Ellington Family: {Arlington, TX}

2010-12-12T14:55:00.002-06:00

Because the Aggies beat the Cornhuskers this year, I decided that I could agree to take pictures of these die-hard Nebraska fans decked out for the Big 12 Championship. I am glad that I was able to snap a few photos before heading up to Jerry World, because once we got to the tailgate, there was no way these boys were going to pose for more than a couple of pictures. I believe the exact quote was, "Please mom, Nebraska fans don't do this!"

JOY: The Stewart Family {Grapevine, Tx}

2010-12-05T16:52:00.005-06:00

As I look back at these photos the first word that pops into my head is JOY, and what a joy it was to capture the Stewart family! For most young boys it is like pulling teeth to take pictures, but Ben and Sam had no problem hamming it up for the camera:) As a matter of fact, they pretty much ran the session! It makes my job easy when people feel comfortable around the camera and are able to truly express their personalities. As you can see from the photos, the Stewarts were naturals!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

2010-12-04T16:52:00.000-06:00

It's not too late!

2010-11-28T21:25:00.001-06:00

Tired of doing the same ol' cheesy holiday cards from the local drug store, or would like to surprise your parents or grandparents with a recent family photo? Good news, we have a few more sessions available!

So, if you were thinking about getting family photos done before Christmas act NOW!

The Hodge family had so much fun the first time we took photos that they braved a second session; this time with their extended family.

'Tis the Season: Martin Family

2010-11-02T22:33:00.002-05:00

Here is a sneak peek of my latest family session. If you would like to know more about our holiday packages please don't hesitate to contact me. There is no gift more precious than the smiles of your loved ones!

Add caption

kelsey = 1 month

2010-10-24T16:53:00.009-05:00

Kelsey is the sweet baby girl of Chris and Katie. When we arrived, Kelsey was eating and beginning to doze back off into her morning nap. We had every intention of Kelsey being asleep for these photos, but she had other plans, and I am glad she did. After a few good stretches, she became quite the show-off. She showed us all how well she could track or follow an object. “Object,” in this case, being a huge camera that was trained on her for over an hour. She had quite the personality for a one-month-old and was so calm throughout the entire session. I can’t wait to see her grow up!

"Add party to the end of anything and they will be much more compliant!"

2010-10-17T21:10:00.003-05:00

Kathy and Mark are the proud parents of two precious 2-year-olds, Mimi and Jake. We got a few urban shots in Deep Ellum, but cigarette butts, bright sun for tired eyes, The Good Guys flyers, and dropped skittles on Malcolm X just did not bring the smiles that we needed from these two adorable twins.

As the sight coordinator for the TV show Chase, based out of Dallas, Mark knew of some great locations to shoot! One of which was the Main Street Garden Park http://www.mainstreetgarden.org/. I have passed by this park a few times and always wanted to check it out, so I was very excited when Mark made the suggestion. Not only are their children adorable, but Mimi and Jake know all of their letters, know the sounds for each letter, and know correlating words! I know several kindergarteners that don't even know the alphabet yet -- they're quite bright. These two fearless kiddos were on the go and exploring all that there was to offer in the great city of Dallas. Thank goodness for a last minute decision to get sprinkle donuts. I don't know of a kid that can't be bribed by a "donut party" at the park! It was a beautiful morning so we continued our "party" up the road at Central Square Park. If you are looking for perfect grass and a canopy of trees, this is the place to go. The grass was a bit wet but the little ones enjoyed the playground and our "picnic tea party!"

baby chase = 6 months

2010-09-26T23:00:00.001-05:00

kimberly+matt

2010-09-07T22:13:00.006-05:00

View Full Album

Bridal Session: Emily

2010-08-14T20:14:00.012-05:00

As the beautiful bride of an aerospace engineer, Emily could not resist the opportunity to take her bridal portraits at the Cavanaugh Flight Museum in Addison. Little did either of us know, we were going to get the royal treatment. The staff at Cavanaugh went above and beyond our expectations. They drove us around in a golf cart, told us the history of the planes (specifically which ones Jared would like) and moved the ropes out of the way so we could get better shots! It may or may not have helped that the manager was also an Aggie, WHOOP!

Emily joked that she wasn't sure if Jared would be looking at her or the planes, but clearly she steals the show!

View the rest of the album here

miller & granger

2010-07-28T21:31:00.003-05:00

What a pair of jokesters! I brought out my bag of tricks (literally) and we had a ton of fun with silly faces, bubbles, hats, and lollipops. I think the only time these two were not smiling is when they were busy blowing bubbles. Miller and Granger sure know how to make a girl laugh!

emily & jared - engagement session

2010-07-22T21:25:00.010-05:00

Jared proposed to Emily at a castle in Napa Valley, so it was only fitting that we start the night at Farina's, a wine bar located in Historic Downtown Grapevine. From there we braved the July heat and took a few pictures around Downtown Grapevine before finishing up at Lake Grapevine.

Attention Seniors: Class of 2011

2010-07-03T18:46:00.005-05:00

I was lucky enough to help capture some great memories for the Class of 2010. It's never too early to start booking for senior portraits! Come on Class of 2011, let's see what you've got!

Lauren + Andy {Fort Worth, TX}

2010-06-26T05:56:00.012-05:00

Muy caliente! This engagement session took place in Fort Worth with temperatures hovering around the triple-digit mark. Despite the heat and the occasional bead of sweat or two, we were able to find some great locations and capture the true love that Lauren and Andy share.

New Product Line!

2010-06-15T00:55:00.007-05:00

Wille Family

2010-06-13T18:34:00.005-05:00

What a great family! Here's a sneak peek of the session.

I Heart NY

2010-06-08T22:38:00.002-05:00

Before Kelli moved to the Big City, I had the pleasure of taking some great shots of her in Dallas. She is a natural in front of the camera and her cool, blue eyes just seem to pop off the page. I wish only the best for Kelli as she continues her journey in New York.

To view more of our photos, please visit our portfolio site.

Paradise

2010-06-05T14:12:00.007-05:00

Viva la Mexico! What a blessed event that Mariel and I had the chance to witness, the marriage of two of our great friends, Matt & Kelly. If you took away the white sands, crashing waves, and blue sky, the wedding would still have been beautiful, but add it all in and then you have an EPIC wedding at http://ranchopescadero.com/

Words alone cannot describe this event, so check out the albums on our portfolio website

Suit Up!

2010-04-29T21:37:00.016-05:00

I know it's been a while since Mariel has posted, so I have decided to grab the reins and take this puppy for a test drive! Well, where to begin? A week ago we found ourselves in Austin visiting Mariel's dad as well as her brother and sister-in-law (Campbell is their pride and joy). Before we left town, we met Mariel's cousin for a session of her first born, Nathan, at Zilker Park's Botanical Gardens. If I learned anything from this shoot, it's that hazy, overcast days produce some great natural light. We didn't have to deal with any harsh shadows or squinty eyes. I also learned that you will always look good in a suit at any age.

Don't forget to check out the new galleries in our proofing website.

Oh, what a day!

2010-04-26T20:15:00.055-05:00

This past weekend we went up to Wylie for a family/ senior portrait session. Armed with our new Cannon 24-70 f/2.8L and 580EXII flash we hit the streets of downtown Wylie. Unlike Nathan's session (which I'll blog about next) there wasn't a cloud in the sky and the sun was beaming brightly. Fortunately, with the flash we were able to get some fill light to reduce some of the harsh lines created by the sun. This was our first formal family portrait session and we quickly discovered how hard it is to avoid the dreaded "closed eyes" or more prevalent "awkward face" when you're taking group pictures.

You can see all of our past sessions at our new portfolio website. Just go to http://www.marielphotos.com/ and click on 'portfolio' on the right.

Let me know what you think!

Campbell Hope

2010-04-24T08:03:00.001-05:00

Avery Brooke & Ayden Grace

2010-04-07T23:07:00.002-05:00

After spending the day at the soccer fields chasing butterflies, the girls jumped in the tub to get ready for a photo shoot with Aunt Mariel. We passed these beautiful tulips at TCU and couldn't resist! The girls suited up in their Sunday best, and we frolicked around the park and posed in front of the finest flowers Fort Worth has to offer. April showers bring May flowers? Looks like we won't have to wait for May!

Reggie - Senior Portraits

2010-04-04T23:45:00.002-05:00

What a trooper -- an 8 a.m. portrait shoot on his day off. I met Reggie and his mom bright and early on the streets of Deep Ellum. Reggie started off acting a little shy, but by the end of the shoot he was busting out poses without being prompted like a true model! The early start gave us plenty of sunlight before the rain came and as always, the scenery at Deep Ellum never disappoints.

Remember, if you get the chance, check out our website!

Nephews

2010-04-01T22:04:00.003-05:00

Last weekend I went with Joey to his parents' house and had a great time with his nephews, Timmy and Stephen. The weather was great and we were able to spend some time outside on the giant swing set as well as play "legos" with actual bricks. Stephen was celebrating his second birthday and he found himself a styling pair of shades. He was definitely rocking out while Timmy was busy building with his big boy "legos". At the end of the night, after eating cake and opening presents, the boys decided to play Hide-and-Go-Seek. As you can see, Stephen could use some practice finding good hiding spots!

On a side note, I have made a very simple realization -- if I want to become a better photographer, I need to take more pictures. By this I am not saying that I need to take hundreds of pictures of my nephew swinging, but that I need to start taking my camera with me so I won't say to myself, "That would make a great picture. I wish I remembered my camera." I need to challenge myself to take fewer quality pictures more often. I think that makes sense, right?

Two babies!

2010-03-31T09:54:00.006-05:00

No, not twins. This past week or so we had two new arrivals into our lives, first being the nephew of one of our dear friends. Mariel could not pass up the chance to give baby Luca his very first photo shoot, so she rushed over with camera in hand. Luca was a natural and seemed like a seasoned veteran in front of the paparazzi. All photos were taken with natural lighting and a Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II lens.

What about the second baby? Well, Mariel and I are proud to announce that our website is up and running! Mariel Garza Photography is now on it's way and both of us could not be more excited. If you have the chance, check out www.marielphotos.com and then drop us a line via the contact section and tell us what you think. The site is still under construction so we would love any and all comments.

Kelly + Matt engagements

2010-03-23T15:25:00.002-05:00

Excited, anxious, and nervous.

More to come.