Babies everywhere!

Recently I have photographed lots of babies!  Most of them have been 9 months, but I have had a 13month old and 1 month old as well.  In three more months, there will be lots of partying going on!  Six to nine months is one of my favorite ages to photograph.  The child can sit on their own and are usually very happy.  Once they start walking, we are all over the place!  There isn't a calm moment again until the age of three.  These babies are part of my "Watch me grow" club.  I have four different sessions to choose from.  "The Transition Session"  is a pair of sessions: one to capture the end of the pregnancy, and one to celebrate the newborn.  " The Newborn Session" is a single session to document every detail of your newborn.  "The Basic Baby Session" is three portrait sessions:  Newborn, 6-8 months old and one year.  "The Ultimate Baby Session" is a collection of five sessions throughout the baby's first year.  Each session includes a customized framed art composite and the maternity session includes a ten image book.

Be sure not to miss out on documenting your baby's first year of life! 
Gift certificates are available.

They grow up so fast

Well it's that time of year again, time for school to start.  All the parents that who were praying all summer for the kids to go back to school, are sad now because their little ones are growing up way to fast!  Well they do grow up way too fast!  Eighteen years ago, I was walking my "little ones" to their classes and now I just hope they are GOING to their classes.  I have decided that I do not like August because it not only is the end of summer, it is the end of another chapter in our lives.  Once school starts back, everyone is so busy that they forget to enjoy the little things and the next thing you know, another year has flown by!  You should really sit back and enjoy this time in your children's life because tomorrow they WILL be all grown up!

Of course, one way to capture this time is those priceless portraits from me!

Family portrait

The family went to Myrtle Beach recently and we took a family portrait.  The only time we could do it was one of the hottest, brightest days we had.  After reminding everyone to wear their white shirts and kakies, we head out to the beach.  The sand is so hot, we can't go barefooted and I didn't have my flip flops so I had on bright yellow socks.  My children reminded me that I was not dressed appropriately.  I get the camera set up and the light with a sand bag to keep it from blowing over and set the self timer.  Everyone is in place.  I push the button and run to get in the picture.  Little did I know that I had forgotten to take the camera off of bracketing, so it was taking five pictures back to back.  After several attempts to remedy the problem, (not to mention that the sun was so bright that I couldn't see the back of the camera!)  I finally got it fixed.  By this time I was tired of running so I told my husband it was his turn to push the button!  The kids were really getting hot and cranky by this time.  Molly of course said that this was going to take forever!  By the end everyone was jumping for joy to be through.  On the count of three everyone was supposed to jump.  Obviously, some people can not follow direction!  There's always one (or more) in every family!


http://youtu.be/W3dL1_ZyqaI

The mosquitoes are here!

A couple of weeks ago, between downpours of rain, I photographed a beautiful senior named Taylor.  After completing her indoor session, we braved the great outdoors to go to Mike's Farm in Kinston for her outdoor session.  When we got there Mike said he had just killed a rather large snake earlier that day so to be careful.  Reluctantly we ventured into the woods to find the beautiful clearing at the end where the sun was peaking through.  As soon as we stepped into the woods, we were attacked by killer mosquitoes!  They swarmed us like nothing I have ever seen before.  We covered with bug spray but that didn't seem to phase them! Taylor's step grandmother  braved the attack with us while her mom and granddad had the car close by for a quick get away.  We could hardly stay more than a few minutes, but we got some incredible shots!  I have to say that was one of hardest outdoor shots I have had to do.  Taylor did a great job putting up with the bug life and her pictures turned out great!

Let it rain!

Ok, the past couple of weeks it has done nothing but rain!  Nevertheless, I have still gotten some awesome senior pictures!  In between showers, in the studio, and even in the rain!  The summer is going fast, so be sure to book your appointment before school and all the activities related to it start.


Here is what your classmates have said about their experience at Martha Peoples Photography:

"My experience was a lot of fun.  Mrs. Martha made the entire process very enjoyable!  I will definitely recommend her to my classmates." - Sydnee NLHS

" I would recommend MPP to my friends because she was very creative and friendly!  She also is really good at doing all that she does." - Taylor NLHS


" All her pictures look amazing" - Trey NLHS

" My favorite part of the whole day was acting like a model.  I have never done it before and it was so much fun!" - Hannah NLHS

"She makes taking senior pictures a great experience." - Michael NLHS

DON'T WAIT TILL THE SUMMER IS OVER!  GET YOUR PORTRAITS TAKEN WHILE THE DAYS ARE LONGER AND SCHOOL IS OUT!

I have what you want in Senior portraits!

Your senior portraits are the most important photographs you will ever have taken!  I know you want them to be the best they can be.  This is your once in a lifetime chance to feel like the model for the day!  Even boys have fun!













 Great senior pictures should have 5 things to look for:

1. The background should coordinate with your outfit and your style.
2. Posing that looks natural and flatters your body type, yet looks spontaneous.  It takes a professional to make you look your very best.
3. There should be beautiful light in your eyes.  My work stands out because of the extra time I put into my lighting technique.
4. Beautiful skin tones that have been retouched to perfection that don't make you look plastic or fake.
5.  Always look for the
   

Senior portrait time!

Summer is here and this is the time for senior portraits!  Come in during the summer for your senior  pics so we will have plenty of time to plan your session and lots of daylight.  Having your portraits taken during the summer also enables you to take advantage of any discounts available.  These discounts are only available before school starts back.  Check with the studio or your school's spokesmodels to find out about these discounts!

Clothing tips:

• Think about having one of your outfit selections repeat your eye color.  Navy and gray are popular colors, but tend to photograph a bit dull.  Look for stronger, richer colors.
• Have at least 1 or 2 outfits with long or medium sleeves unless you want to feature your armpits and elbows.
• Darker clothing, especially pants make you look slimmer.  Avoid horizontal strips!!!  Shoes with heel will lift and slim.
• Shorts show a lot of leg and plaid can add bulk.  Short sleeves emphasize the upper arm.

• Bring an outfit that is classic that won't be outdated soon.  Bring an outfit that makes a statement about you and your style. Bring something that has fall colors in it for outdoor shots.

Make-up tips:

• Use both SPF free moisturizer and foundation to prevent reflection and to enhance skin's natural glow.  Use a translucent powder to set.
• Well groomed eyebrows are a must.  Enhance eyelashes with a BLACK waterproof mascara.  dark brown eyeliner is a natural alternative to heavy black eyeliner and compliments all light shimmery eye shadows.
• Don't be afraid to have a little color on the apples of the cheekbones(petal pink).  It will really brighten up the appearance of the face.
• Use glossy shiny color on the lips!  Lips are best in reds, berries and browns.  No frosty pink.  Buy glosses in any berry color.

20th anniversary

This week I had an opportunity to photograph a couple for their 20th wedding anniversary.  To commemorate this event, they wanted some intimate studio shots and some outdoor fun shots with their pride and joy, Abby.  It's heart warming to know there are still people who believe in the institute of marriage and have stayed together thorough all the ups and downs.  I enjoy photographing couples as they celebrate these important milestones of their lives!

School's almost out!

Well it's hard to believe another school year has come and gone!  It has been a busy year with senior portraits.  To finish off the class of 2013, I had twins!  Whitney and Will were such a pleasure to photograph!  They brought their sports equipment, cap & gown, dress clothes and casual.  We got it all done in one session.  The weather was good except for the tornado like wind conditions!  At least the rain held off.  Will was a great sport putting up with all the women there fussing over him.  Whitney was a natural in front of the camera and her inner beauty came shinning through.

The class of 2013 from all the area high schools was great to work with!  I look forward to working with the class of 2014 this summer!  Best wishes to all my graduates!

Fashion for Life 2013

Well the show was a great success!  We raised about $600 for Relay for Life!  I want to thank JC Penney, H. Stadiems  and Weeping Willow Boutique of Kinston, Maurices of Goldsboro, Charlotte Russe and Che Bella of Greenville for donating clothing for the event.  A big thanks to Robbie Sutton of Twin Gables Hair Salon and Brooke and Erica from Hair We Go for hair and makeup.  Ginny Moody of Dance Expressions was a fantastic emcee.  Of course, backstage moms and dads were invaluable!  The models did a great job!  It was a lot of work, but we had a great time and it was for a great cause! 

Fashion for Life's top model of the day: Wes

The last top model for Fashion for Life is Wes.  Wes is a senior from North Lenoir High School and his favorite color is green.  His favorite movie is "Footloose" and his favorite TV show is "Friends".  Wes likes photography and acting in school productions.  He has a cat named Charlie and a dog named Kelly.

Four things people might not know about Wes:
1) He wears contacts
2) He thinks friendships are the most important thing in the world
3) He fears sadness
4) He thinks first impressions are very important

Wes plans on attending UNCW in the fall and taking film studies.
Two words to describe Wes are optimistic and happy.

Fashion for Life's top model of the day: Alex

The spotlight is on Alex today!  Alex is a junior at North Lenoir High School and her favorite colors are teal and navy blue.  Her favorite movies are "Les Miserables" and "The Lion King".  Alex likes to watch "Glee" and listen to Christina Perri.  She likes to sing, act and play soccer.

Five things people might not know about Alex:
1) She has seven pet snakes
2) She has four brothers
3) She loves doing crafts
4) Her grandma Kate is one of her biggest heroes
5) She likes to write

After high school, Alex would like to attend UNCW and major in musical theater.
Two words to describe Alex are loud and outgoing.

Fashion for Life's top model of the day: Courtney

Courtney is the top model today!  She is a junior from Eastern Wayne High School.  Her favorite color is hot pink and her favorite band is Easton Corbin.  Courtney is a "Duck Dynasty" fan and her favorite movie is " Remember the Titans".  Courtney enjoys shopping and hanging out with friends. She is an Instagram fan. She has a dog named Daisy.

Five things people might not know about Courtney:
1) She loves the Tarheels
2) She dances to silly music
3) Shopping is her favorite thing to do
4) Carrie Underwood is her idol
5) She likes to swim

Two words to describe Courtney are funny and loud.

Fashion for Life's top model of the day: Taylor

Today's top model is Taylor.  Taylor is a junior at North Lenoir high school.  Her favorite colors are yellow, pink and zebra print.  Her favorite movie is "Tangled" and TV Show is "Beverly Hills 90210".  Taylor likes to listen to Luke Bryan and she is a Pinterest fan.  She enjoys dancing, being in school plays and cheerleading.

Five things people might not know about Taylor:
1) She puts a Bible verse on Facebook each day
2) She lives off Bo Jangles chicken n' biscuits
3) She likes watching sunsets on the beach
4) She doesn't like a lot of change in her life
5) She was named after both of her great grandmothers... Alma Taylor and Sally Daniels

Taylor plans on attending college after high school and she would like to pursue a career in graphic arts.
Two words to describe Taylor are optimistic and considerate.

Fashion for Life's top model of the day: Jake

Today's Fashion for Life's top model of day is a junior from South Lenoir high school, Jake.  Jake's favorite color is orange and his favorite movie is "Forrest Gump".  He likes listening to Three Days Grace and he is an avid "Duck Dynasty" fan.  Jake plays the trombone in the school's marching band.  He also enjoys basketball and playing X box.  He has a beagle named Bucky.

Five things people might not know about Jake:
1) He loves bright colored shoes
2) His favorite restaurant is El Azteca
3) His favorite bible verse is Philippians 4:13
4) His favorite bible story is "The Parable of the good Samaritan"
5) His dream car is a camouflage camarro

Jake plans on attending a four year university and studying Music Education.
A word to describe Jake is
determined.

Fashion for Life's top model of the day: Jordan

Jordan is in the spotlight today!  She is a sophomore at Spring Creek High School.  Jordan's favorite color is purple and her favorite movie is "Safe Haven".  She likes to listen to Taylor Swift and is a fan of  "Glee".  Jordan likes to dance and her favorite website is Pinterest.  She has a dog named Gracie and two cats, Oreo and Josie. 

Five things people might not know about Jordan:
1) She is scared of balloons
2) She has danced since she was two years old
3) She took gymnastics for four years
4) She has a scar on her toungue
5) She is scared of two wheeled objects

Two words to describe Jordan are outgoing and loud.

Fashion for Life's top model of the day: Madison

The spotlight today is on North Lenoir junior Madison.  Her favorite color is black and her favorite movies are " Aqua Marine" and "Ocean's Eleven".  Madison listens to Marina the the Diamonds.  On Tuesday nights she can be found watching NCIS.  Madison is a life guard and a talented artist.  She helped paint the sets for North Lenoir's production of " The Wizard of Oz".  Her other hobbies include talking, traveling and journalling.  Madison has two dogs, a cat and a parakeet.

Five things people might not know about Madison:
1) She went to Australia by herself when she was 13 as a PTPA(People to know ambassador)
2) She does not like it when people touch her neck
3) She was named after the mermaid from the movie "Splash"
4) She love to take naps.  She's pretty sure she's actually 5 years old.
5) She has enough book to fill up a library

Madison plans to study journalism after high school.
Two words to describe her are loud and creative.

Fashion for Life's top model of the day: Jenna

Today's top model is Jenna.  She is a sophomore at North Lenoir High School.  Jenna's favorite color is lime green and she likes listening to the Artic Monkeys.  Her favorite movie is "Olympus Has Fallen" and her favorite TV show is Spongebob.  Jenna dances, sings, plays the piano and enjoys reading.  She has several cats and chickens.

Five things people might not know about Jenna:
1) She has pet chickens
2) She has taken dance since she was four years old
3) She likes playing basketball
4) She can sing
5) She can play the piano by ear

Two words to describe Jenna are tomboy and funny.

Fashion for Life's top model of the day: Hailey

The spotlight today is on Hailey.  She is a junior at Bethel Christian Academy.  Her favorite colors are purple, mint green and coral.  Hailey likes to listen to Eli Young Band and Brantley Gilbert.  Her favorite movie is "Hunger Games" and her favorite TV show is "Duck Dynasty".  Hailey loves to dance.  She has a cat named Crybaby and two dogs named Izzy and Gracie.

Five things people might not know about Hailey:
1) Her room is the only painted room in her house
2) She is terrified of horses and cows
3) She has been dancing for twelve years
4) She likes hot drink even in hot weather
5) She loves cats

Two words to describe Hailey are clumsy and outgoing.

Fashion for Life's top model of the day: Rachel

Today the spotlight is on Rachel.  Rachel  is a junior at South Lenoir High School.  Her favorite colors are yellow and blue.  Her favorite band is Matchbox 20 and her favorite movie is "Hunger Games".  Rachel plays volleyball and runs track for school.  She also enjoys reading.  She is a "Pinterest" fan.  Her favorite TV show is "Friends".

Five things people might not know about Rachel:
1) Not only does she play volleyball, she also runs track
2) She has a makeup addiction
3) She love Harry Potter
4) She wants a career in the medical field
5) She is pretty much an open book(people know most things about her)

Rachel plans on attending East Carolina University after high school.
Two words to describe Rachel are smart and radiant.

Fashion for Life top model of the day: Carly

The feature model today is Carly.  Carly is a junior at Bethel Christian Academy.  Her favorite color is Carolina blue and her favorite band is Tenth Ave. North.  Carly plays basketball, golf and she dances.  Her favorite movie is "A Walk to Remember" and her favorite TV show is "Criminal Minds".  Carly has four Labrador Retrievers.

Five things people don't know about Carly:
1) She has been in People Magazine
2) She owns a shotgun
3) She can drive a tractor
4) She has participated in "Brain Games"
5) She loves to bake

Carly plans on attending Liberty University in the fall of 2014.  She hopes to become a teacher.
Two words to describe Carly are passionate and dependable.

Fashion for Life top model of the day: RJ

Today's spotlight model is RJ.   RJ is a senior at North Lenoir High School.  He will be attending Lenoir Community College for two years, and then transfer to East Carolina University.  He hopes to become an English professor.  RJ's favorite colors are blue and orange.  His favorite band is Mayday Parade and his favorite movie is " Secondhand Lions".  RJ enjoys playing soccer, reading and writing.

Five things people don't know about RJ
1) He is a superhero fanatic
2) He loves the ocean
3) He is an aspiring English teacher
4) He is a Pokemon trainer
5) He is a bow tie collector

Two words to describe RJ are different and humorous
.

Top model of the day: Carrie

Carrie is the top model of the day. She is a sophomore at North Lenoir High School. Her favorite color is red and her favorite band is Florence & The Machine.  Carrie likes to draw and sing.  She is playing Glenda the good witch in her high school production of  "The Wizard of Oz".  Carrie's favorite movie is "Les Miserables".  She has a goldfish named Gilbert.

Five things people might not know about her:
1) She loves to paint
2) She likes to organize things in baskets
3) She is severely allergic to cats
4) She enjoys singing and acting
5) She is scared of the ocean

After high school, Carrie plans on attending ECU and majoring in something in the medical field.

Two words to describe Carrie are bubbly and creative.