How is 2017 already over?! I can’t believe I had the opportunity to spend another year doing something that fills my heart. I am thankful for everyone who made 2017 special for me and Jontell Vanessa Photography. To my friends and family who believed in my business (even when I didn’t), thank you for keeping me grounded and inspired. To my sweet clients, I can’t begin to tell you how thankful I am for the opportunity to capture such an important moment in your life. Thank you for trusting me to tell your story – I hope that in the years to come, your images will always bring back the sweetest of memories. Here’s a little (or not so little) recap of some of my favorite moments from this year!

I started the year by launching my new and improved website thanks to GoLiveHQ!

In May, I spent a lot of time at the University of Virginia’s Rotunda capturing graduating seniors. (Class of 2018, I’m ready for you!)

I also attended the Hope Taylor Photography workshop in May! I got to meet other talented creatives from around the country. Hope’s workshop was an amazing educational experience and we also got to capture some gorgeous images during the styled shoot (you can view more here!)

In October, Manali and I dreamed up a Fall styled shoot that was published on Cake & Lace a few weeks ago. We got to work with some amazing local vendors and I love how well everything came together!

I spent the summer second shooting for some amazing photographers. It was wonderful to have the opportunity to learn how other photographers approach a wedding day and continue to strengthen my work. Also, it’s just fun to meet new creatives! I got to hang out with Jess of Jessica Green Photography and Hope of Hope Taylor Photography to shoot some stunning weddings for some wonderful couples. One of my favorite wedding days was when I had the opportunity to second shoot for Leah Adkins Photography at Morais Vineyards, one of my favorite wedding venues in Virginia. Just look at this beautiful Disney inspired wedding!

And of course, the best part – my wonderful 2017 JVP brides & grooms! I tried really hard to narrow these images down, but it was SO difficult. There were so many beautiful moments that I got to capture; these are just some of my absolute favorites!

My best friend since 6th grade got MARRIED this summer!

Okay y’all, I’ve shot and second shot almost 50 weddings and prayers are still the only thing that will actually make me cry at a wedding. I loved that my second, Myesha, and I got to capture these moments for Ashley and Justin!

 

And if you’ve scrolled this far, here are a few BTS/ fun images from this last year!                      2018, I’m ready for you!