Dear 2011 (Happy New Year)

Dear 2011,

Thank you for an amazing year. In this past year, I established new business connections, stronger friendships, growing partnerships, and overall a more positive outlook about myself. There were plenty of challenges that were presented; some were met and easily conquered, while others left me with lessons learned. I began this photography venture shortly after the passing of my grandmother in 2006, as a springboard to get out there and do more with my life. I was inspired to tackle something different; to work to create art and not just live in it.

Well six years later, I can proudly say...I am doing it. And with all of you guys, thankfully not alone. Being a photographer allows me to live out my dreams - dare to hope, and challenge myself to be a better person. For this, I'm thankful. However, I realize without the love, happiness, and support of clients who believe in my ability, I'm nothing.

To end every year, I often celebrate with a wonderful party at my house and open the doors to anyone who wants to ring in the New Year with Mr. Poteat. This year, I had the pleasure of meeting many new folks, and of course some of my regular buddies. I hope you enjoy viewing these pictures, as much as we had taking them.......................................and there were a lot taken. Happy New Year!!!
~L. Poteat



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Michelle & Scott's Maternity Shoot

I met Michelle and Scott, thru one of my dearest friends.  Scott is a libra (like me), and Michelle is amazing (like me), so......the awesomeness of us producing such an amazing shoot was DESTINED.  DESSSSSSSSSSSTIIIIIIIIIIIINED!  Now, a little disclaimer, since this shoot...baby lucas has been born, has tested out of second grade, and is preparing to take his first date to the ice cream parlor..........sike!(basically, i am hella late in posting this amazing shoot).  Buuuuuuuuuut, the wait is well worth it.    Thanks again Deel Family, it was a pleasure to be a part of such a special moment.

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Nikki & Rufus Wedding

I entered the room and heard, "Hey Lucky"...(an old college nickname I used to go by while attending U. Pittsburgh).  There she sat, radiant and beaming from ear to ear as she waited for Beaute to do her make-up.  The room was packed with gorgeous women -also known as her Bridesmaides -  and the Bride herself was not to be outdone.

Her dress by Mori Lee hung in the corner of the SOFITEL suite in downtown, Philadelphia.  The couple chose to have their before pictures taken at the Hotel before hoping in their caravans of love...and heading over to the outdoor ceremony, at Curtis Hall, in Wyncote, PA  The weather couldn't have been more perfect....and as a photographer shooting outside, This is one of those #SWEETJESUSHALLEILUJAH for not raining on the parade type of moments.

After a few formalities, and a  couple of "hey haven't seen you in a while" I picked up my camera and began doing what seemed effortless---capturing an absolutely beautiful woman marrying a handsome man, in a ceremony I will never forget.   

They say, like father like daughter.........well, i think they say it???  Point is---you would think this was a magazine shoot, as stylish as both of them look. Dad escorting his daughter, and daughter beaming at the sight of her soon-to-be husband. 

This is that moment that I looooove capturing, it's......."The Look".  As a groom, I'd imagine it hard to put into words, how you felt the moment she turned the corner, the doors openned, or while she was walking down the aisle to meet you. If I had to guess, what was on Rufus's mind............i'd say, "winnnnnnnning".

                                                   

 I love this bridal party picture.....it really captures the mood and feel of the day.  Relaxed, casual, and stylish.

 Bridal Bouquet designed by Chrizelle

Special thanks once again to Nikkia and Rufus, for entrusting me the task of trying to match their natural swagger in photos. Wish you nothing but the best!

Please enjoy the video of the day as well :)

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DASoul Underwear Line

Its collaboration #2 for Mr. Nowell and Leonard Poteat.  After a very successful turnout with the JET spread magazine (shown here JET Magazine Feature ), Mr. Nowell entrusted me with his latest project---a underwear line---DASoul.  We worked with models Adam and Eddie on this shoot---and they did an amazing job.....and just for you nosey folks------------"I was not only the photographe, but I am also a client" hahahah 

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Tekeah & Tron Engagement Session

Every now and then, you meet a couple that looks in you the eye.... squares up shoulder to shoulder, and screams-----"CHALLENGE!"  Well, i am exaggerating a bit here, but this couple's engagement shoot definitely challenged my comfort zone (ummmmmmm shooting in the forest of Nottingham -- filled with bugs, mosquito's, and slavelikeheat).  Was I prepared for the heat...of course not.  Was I prepared for the bugs flying in my face as i tried to get a good shot...nope.  Was I even prepared for the sweat staining my eyelids and making me create a funk unGodly---no no no.  BUT, what i was prepared for, is to shoot a longtime friend---Tekeah, her fiance--Tron, in what I deem an AMAZING EXPERIENCE IN CHALLENGING CONDITIONS PRODUCING ART THAT IS MOVING AND LONGLASTING... copyright that :)  

All in all,  I am extremely elated and proud to have documented such a shoot---and such a dynamic couple.  They kept me moving, and inspired the whole time while out in-----Nottingham. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this session, and i hope you do as well.

And be sure to check out the video, where they make shooting in the woods sooo sooo easy and BEEEE YUUU TEEE FUUL

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Grammy Nominated Artist -- Carolyn Malachi

The shoot was made possible because of stying by Ayanna Scott, hair by W Salon VA - Sue T. Lawhorn and Cindy Soung, Photography by Leonard Poteat, Barber YHYF, and makeup by ink...cosmetics, Anna Castillo.

Behind the Scenes Photo Shoot----------OOOOOOOOOH, AAAAAAAAH

For more information on the talented artist--Carolyn Malachi, please visit her website at:
http://carolynmalachi.com

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