Camping Model Session | Chatham, Virginia Senior Photographer

"We didn't realize we were making memories, we just knew we were having fun."

This model shoot was SO much fun! I am so thankful that we took it back to nature and just hanging out with friends...a shoot I'll never forget!

I love these girls...and that they love spending time in front of my camera. We set up a campsite by a pond and brought out the smores and "hot chocolate!" I loved the pines in background and the calmness of just being out there...the woods were calling! 


 

I loved every second of this shoot and could share SO many more photos, but these are some of my favorites:) Kelsie, Kailey, Tori, and Taylor are beautiful, inside AND out! 

I'm sensing a shift coming to MBP. Will you be a part of that? And have you booked your senior session yet? It's not too late. I can't wait to work with you to plan your custom senior session! AND I'm running a sale for the rest of 2017, so contact me ASAP to get in on that! :) 

-Megan

London | Virginia Custom Senior Photography

London's session in Altavista, Virginia was SO much fun! London traveled to me from northern VA just for her senior photos! It was exciting and we spent the whole evening walking around town and the park:) 

London's smile was infectious and she and her mom were such a pleasure to be around! Enjoy a few faves from her senior session: 

LOVE LOVED working with London! If you're wanting to book a custom senior experience with me, just use the contact tab to send me a message! I look forward to planning out your session location, wardrobe, and more!! 

Senior pictures are such special memories to have from one of the best times of your life...

-Megan

Parker | Danville, Virginia Senior Photography

Parker's downtown Danville senior session was one for the books! We had so much fun, he was so photogenic, and I'm telling yall, I enjoy working with guys just as much as the girls! 

I loved his blazer jacket...

The last 2 images are my faves:) Downtown Danville senior pictures always seem to bring variety to a session! 

Megan Bryant Photography is still booking 2017 seniors, so if you waited until the last minute, it's ok! We can make it happen:) I look forward to planning your custom senior session with you! 

-Megan

Welcome Winter...and Happy Holidays!!

I always enjoy getting my Model Crew together...these girls all hold a special place in my heart and will never know how amazing I truly think they are! We decided to do a holiday shoot, but then I decided I didn't want it to scream Christmas, so we scaled it back a notch. I told them to think plaid, boots, fur, etc and they planned their own outfits. It was SUPER windy the day of the shoot, but these girls toughed it out...and of course I gave them "heat breaks." I love the look of the pine trees and was thankful for the greenery the photos:)

Here are a few from our session: 

These girls are SO much fun, but can totally switch on the fierce in a split second! We are planning another group shoot so I can't wait to work with these girls again:))) 

My Spring calendar is now open for booking, so be sure to contact me if you're interested in a custom senior session! 

-Megan

Go VOTE | How I Feel | Virginia Senior Photographer

Election Day is quickly approaching...and I think we can all agree that we can't wait for it to all be over. This election has perhaps been the worst for mud slinging in history...everyone is sick of it and just ready to move past it.

Some people are very firm in their belief for who makes the best candidate...others, like myself, are rather conflicted, as no one seems like an option to define as "best." 

Whether you're a Hillary fan, Trump fan, 3rd party fan, or "let's close our eyes and check a box" fan....it's still imperative that you go out to the polls on November 8. 

There are numerous reasons why this election is important:
-the White House is an open seat, no incumbent is running. Therefore, a new President AND Vice President will take their place in January. 
-the VP is a tie-breaking vote for the Senate, which is looking to be split 50/50 after this election. Hence, making his role rather significant this go-round.
-the Supreme Court is sitting at a split as well, hence making the elected President's appointment(s) vital to the balance of the court system for years to come. 

The above are just a few reasons of the importance of this election in regards to our branches of government. However, we all sometimes feel like there are other "way more important" things going on in the world that should receive more attention than politics...

Like the current racial issues plaguing our nation---our civilians, our police officers, etc.
Or the threats to nations around the world from ISIS and other terrorist groups...
Or the national debt. And more on my level----student loan debt that seems to drowning many students who have completed their studies. 
Or unemployment. 
Or taxes. 
Or insurance. Ohhh, insurance. Such a HUGE mess. 

I could go on and on naming issues that need a resolution that instead seem to be getting worse. The current state of our nation is simply sad. Anyone who says we are thriving is completely brain washed. 

I have never been so conflicted about an election. I normally let my deciding factor be abortion---I vote for the candidate against it. However, this year I've watched, listened, read, and ignored so many debates, campaigns, social media rants...people are seriously CRAZY. 

1. Criminals should not be allowed to run for President. 
2. Women deserve respect, as do all people really. 
3. Don't endorse someone today that you totally threw under the bus last week. 

I know I'm kinda all over the place at this point, but that's exactly what I mean! It's crazy! And honestly, this could be the election where a 3rd party becomes a major party...but people are so afraid to vote for those candidates, believing its a wasted vote. Which, I can see the strategy there, but still, make your voice heard. Don't vote for someone just because you don't want the other candidate to win. 

Moving on...

In the midst of all of this turmoil, I called in a model to work on studio lighting with me. We were just having fun and playing around with different techniques. 

I asked her if we could do an editorial for the election...to share feelings about how conflicted we feel, how torn this nation is, how sad so many people feel....just pure, raw emotion over the angst of the approaching Presidential election. 

Lindsay was game for doing whatever I wanted, as was her Mom, who was present during the shoot. 

I hope that this image makes you feel what I feel. Raw. Torn. Upset. Bitter. Conflicted. Angry. Disappointed. Sad. Doubtful. Wrapped in a nation that has forgotten its foundation. Looking for answers. Not finding them. Clinging to what's left. Fearful of the future. 
 

Thankfully, I have a God who is King, regardless of who is President. And regardless of the results of the election, I'm still gonna pray for our President. He or she will definitely need that...

I'm not gonna sling mud on here at any of the candidates...enough of that has happened already. I just wanna portray how I feel. How so many of you feel. 

Please go out and vote on Nov 8. If you don't, your voice isn't heard. And pray. Pray hard.

-Megan

Fall Wardrobe Inspiration | South Central Virginia Senior Photographer

Fall is here and with that comes cooler temps. As I was browsing Polyvore, I thought that I would share some of my findings with you all:) There are some new trends this year and I kinda just like fashion so yea, I wanted to share and talk about it! HA! 

Sometimes, its just hard to let go of summer. I know it has been very hard for me this year. I just didn't want the sunshine, tan lines, and pool time to end! If this is the case for you too, layering is a great option. One thing I do is just add a jacket....yep, shorts on and throw on a jacket. 

~Summer to Fall Layering~ Top Set Aug 30th, 2016 by amethyst0818 featuring framed wall art

Maybe you're a simple gal who doesn't like to go over the top with her outfits. Graphic tees are awesome (and fun) and go with anything! Jeans, shorts, even some skirts. 

Teens fall outfit by karieveretta featuring slip on shoes

One thing that is on trend for this fall is velvet. And this is with everything...tops, bottoms, shoes, etc. And I really love the merlot/burgundy color palette so this set is so rich:) 

Falling into fall by aribah-siddiqui featuring dolce gabbana fragrances

I've also noticed that chokers are on trend this season. And they've already made an appearance at a senior session! 

Where are my boot lovers at? You just can't go wrong in the fall with boots. Add a little sass with boot socks/cuffs:)

Fall Boots by rachel-beth featuring shirt tops

So yea, I may not wanna let go of summer, but I can definitely have fun with fall fashion no matter the style! And of course, a good variety is fun for your senior session too, right?! I always get excited to see the layered pieces that are brought to senior photo shoots:) Boots, scarves, leggings, sweaters, jackets, vests, hats, everything! 

Which set above is your fave??

-Megan

Sunflowers and Kelsie | Gretna, Virginia Senior Photographer

Kelsie alone is a ray of sunshine. Pair her up with a sunflower field and you can't not smile at her! We enjoyed shooting these SO much.

Kelsie is a junior this year at Gretna High. She is a member of my Model Crew and I just love her:) Kelsie is a talented singer, cheerleader, and the reigning GHS Princess. 

Here are a few favorites from our sunflower shoot!

"Keep your face to the sunshine and you can't see the shadows. It's what the sunflowers do." -Helen Keller

She may be fierce, but she's FUN too!! 

 I love this hat! It's part of my accessories collection that is available for all of my seniors to pick from during their session!

Kelsie also modeled the MBP Model Crew tshirt for me:) Simple but perfect! And they're oh so comfy.

I even shot a little video during our shoot too! One of my fave mini films that I've done!! 

Kelsie and I had a blast at the sunflower field. Special thanks to Mark & Hillary Marstin for letting us use the field:) 

I still have a few slots left for fall sessions!! Just use the Contact tab at the top of the page to get started.

I can't wait to hear from you! 
Megan

Summer Senior Pictures | Custom Senior Photography in Chatham, Virginia

Summer is winding down and I just wanted to share a few of my favorite images from this summer so far:) 

Back in July, I attended the PUSH conference in Indiana through Senior Style Guide. It was such a great week of classes, engagement, learning, collaboration, and friendship. I loved meeting other senior photographers and learning from some of the top of the industry! 

This image below was style by the amazing Brooke Daniels, the same photog who styled the Destination Shoot I went to in June in the Isle of Palms. 

This image is also from the PUSH conference, and was styled by Devon J Imagery.

This image is probably my fave from the PUSH conference, and was taken during my rotation with Dan Brouilette. I love the movement and the editorial vibe.

Kelsey is a junior model on my Model Crew. I LOVED working with her at the sunflower field! She's a junior at Gretna High and a very talented young lady!

Erin is also from Gretna, and one of my 2017 seniors. Her family loves this photo just as much as I do! 

Working with 2 seniors at the same time was new for me, and sisters at that! Courtney and Carly currently hold the record for hottest session to date...it was brutal but they fought through it with me and we got some great images!

Lindsey is a 2017 senior from Carlisle. She was actually blessed with one of the coolest days of the summer...78* during her session in August!! Crazy! We thoroughly enjoyed it though:) 

2017 seniors, if you haven't booked your session with me yet, get on it! I still have some availability for this fall, so contact me ASAP to secure your spot:) I can't wait to work with you and plan your custom senior experience!! Use the Contact tab at the top of the page.

-Megan

Back to School | South Central Virginia Senior Photography

It's that time again ALREADY and summer is winding down. School supplies have been purchased and backpacks are ready to go. But what about your wardrobe? Does it need a few fresh new pieces to kick off this new school year? OF COURSE! 

Here are a few tips for back to school clothing shopping: 

-Shop sales (more for your buck!)
-Thrifting and consignment stores (again, more for your buck) often have top brands at lower prices, some even still have the tags!
-Go with pieces that can mix and match....not all prints

Pinterest is so amazing not only visually, but to be able to find the exact content I'm looking for, especially when it comes to clothing:)  Here are some helpful links/images:

Jeans: 
Errrrybody wears jeans. They're easily dressed up or down too. Here are a few neat looks that I found on Polyvore:) You may already have jeans, so just pair them up with cute tops, add a jacket, or throw on some wedges to dress them up a bit! Mix and match:) 

Don't let summer end yet...wear colored denim!!

Colored Jeans in the Summer 1583 by boxthoughts featuring clear iphone cases

Denim on denim...

Jeans by abecic featuring a 3 piece painting

Sandals with jeans....

Back to School Outfit by hannahcoalson-1 featuring apple iphone cases

Dark denim...

Combination for school by caleb-hogan-330 featuring low top sneakers

How about white denim? Lindsey nailed this outfit, giving these white jeans a dressy look by adding such a chic top! 

Back to school usually brings a lot of tension....but when you're wearing a cute outfit or know that you have comfortable but fashionable clothes, you can feel SO much better about returning to your studies. 

Happy First Day of School to the locals here! I hope you all have a great year! And enjoy mixing and matching outfits with your jeans:) 

-Megan

Model Crew Shoot | Lakeside | Chatham, Virginia Senior Photography

Part 2 of my Model Crew session took place over by Elkhorn lake. We didn't shoot long, as a strong storm was quickly approaching, but we did manage a few:) Each model chose her own outfit and the hair & MUA (Dara Pettiford) relaxed the styling a bit after shooting the vintage pool party. I am so thankful for these girls, for their desire to be on my Model Crew, and for their willingness to fight the heat the day of this shoot. Working with them is so much fun and I hope that they can remember our time together as a highlight of their high school years!

Let's get started with Cami, she is such a sweet girl! 

Brooke got us all access to the lake, so thanks girlie! I just love the shot of her laughing:) 

Chandler has so much personality, I just love where she's kicking her foot up out of the water!

Haley is such a ray of sunshine! Her smile is infectious! 

Lindsay is fierce and fabulous....that last image of her is my fave:) 

Obsessed with this skirt...

These girls had so much fun and I did too! I look forward to getting them all together again...

Have you booked your senior session yet? There is limited availability remaining for the rest of this year, so don't wait to contact me! 

Just scroll back up to the top and click "Contact." I can't wait to talk with you and start planning your custom senior experience! 
-Megan

Vintage Pool Party | Group Model Shoot | Senior Photography in Chatham, Virginia

Yall. I have had this session in my head for months...and honestly thought that it would never come to be because I knew that a swimsuit shoot would be looked down upon. And I didn't know exactly where to do the pool party shoot either. 

So long story short, during my 2017 Model Crew meeting, I shared with them my idea of a vintage pool party...and they LOVED it! I knew I was on to something, so I knew somehow we would just have to find a pool. One of the model Moms approached me and shared that they run Elkhorn Lake and Campground in Chatham, Virginia and that I could use there! The planning began and we were all excited for the big day. 

The day of the shoot was HOT. Our hair and MUA (Dara) came on location to style and touch-up the girls. Each model picked her own swimsuit (I just simply required that they be somewhat of a vintage style...no stringy bikinis!!). We were missing one model, Kelsie, who unexpectedly ended up in the ER. But she is fine and I have done a separate model shoot with her, so look for that on the blog soon:) 

Now without further ado...here is our vintage pool party session! 

I absolutely LOVE these sunglasses on Brooke!

Cami's black and white suit was perfect to go with the swan float:) I just love her classic look!

This image below is one of my total faves from the day...and it has kind of made Haley Instagram Famous! She has been featured on NAPCP Seniors, Senior Year Magazine, Senior Inspire, and Seniortographer! 

Chandler has the bubbliest personality and I loveddd how she slayed this look! Fierce, girl! 

Lindsay was a junior model last year...and I'm stoked to have her on this year's Model Crew as well. I loved her bubble gum pink suit! Doesn't get much more classic than polka dots!

It was def hot, so the girls were thrilled to see me whip out and cut that watermelon! 

What's a party without balloons??! This group image below was featured on Senior Chic!

This group image below was featured on Senior Year Magazine!

Here is a video of the fun we had during the shoot!! 

We wrapped the session by the lake....look for those photos to come soon on another blog post!

So now you've met my 2017 Model Crew: Lindsay, Haley, Brooke, Cami, and Chandler! (Kelsie too, just not this session:) I can't wait to spend more time with these ladies! 

Have you booked your 2017 Senior Session yet? I have limited availability remaining for summer and fall...spring dates are already being booked as well! DO NOT WAIT! You don't want to miss out on south central Virginia's most sought after custom senior experience! 

I can't wait to hear from you:) 
-Megan

Downtown Summer Model Session | Chatham Virginia Senior Pictures

I wanted to do a senior model session to play around with video, so I called up Lindsey and asked her if she'd like one last go at it before she graduated. Of course, she was game for it, but we didn't quite make the model shoot happen as soon as we had planned, lol. The weather was a challenge, but once the actual day of the shoot came, it proved to work out really well! Lindsey is one of my 2016 senior models and just graduated from Westover Christian Academy in Danville. 

I just love Lindsey's sense of style. She always has the most fab outfits and completes them with the best accessories! Here are a few of my fave shots from our shoot in downtown Chatham. 

Watch this mini-film...loveeee the personalization on the back of her hat! 

 I just loved her straw hat! 

We changed outfits a few times for this shoot. This fuschia dress was the perfect color-pop! 

Here is another mini-film...

I will always remember Lindsey's squinch-nose face! 

Thanks, Lindsey, for going along with my ideas! I love you and am really gonna miss you being on my team! You're now an alumni though, so we will see each other again!

Looking to book your custom senior experience? Use the Contact tab at the top of the page to get started:) I can't wait to hear from you!

-Megan