This past April, I enjoyed shooting the Nashville Symphony Fashion show at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center for Gus Mayer Nashville. You can find that post here. Thank you Atlanta Social Season Magazine for putting us on the cover of your current Summer 2017 issue.
Thanks to the incredibly talented team of friends who made this shoot happen and to Birmingham Magazine for putting us on the cover of their Summer/Fall 2017 Weddings issue. And, if you know me well, you know how happy I am that it’s turquoise!
Be sure to pick up a copy on news stands now, and stay tuned for the full blog post to come…
Photographer: Heather Durham | 1st Assistant: Andi Rice | Stylist: Mary Beth Wetzel | Hair & Make Up: Kerri Bunn of BOMA Beautiful | Models: Anna Kathryn Fitch with Elite and Ellie Martin with NEXT
Savage Interior Design, was recently named Best Design Firm by the Nashville Lifestyles’ Home Awards, and I was able to see Jonathon Savage’s incredible talent first hand, while shooting one of the Brentwood Homes he designed. The images of this lovely home are featured in the current issue and on the cover of Nashville Lifestyles At Home magazine.
It’s a real testament to Nashville and its friendly, welcoming and encouraging creative community, that I was given the opportunity to shoot my first cover for one of Music City’s magazines after living here only 8 months. I’ve always enjoyed shooting editorial work, especially for my home town. It’s such a great way to really get to know the city where you live work and play and the people and places that make it unique.
Be sure to pick up a copy of Nashville At Home on newsstands to read the story about this Brentwood beauty.
It’s always a pleasure to shoot for my friends at Twin Construction in Birmingham, AL. This home was especially fun to photograph, since I know Rachael, the owner and love her personal style. Laurie Fulkerson, interior designer for Twin, did an exceptional job capturing and bringing Rachel and Dax’s style and personalities into the details of the home design. My favorite elements? The incredible black crocodile wallpaper in the study (slight obsession), the luxurious blue velvet sofas in the living room, the butlers pantry filled with natural light, the steel folding doors that open the dining room onto the screened porch for indoor/outdoor entertaining and finally the perfectly organized master bedroom closet with lighted shelving. There’s so much more…Pick up a copy of Birmingham Home & Garden to read the story behind this amazing Homewood (Edgewood) remodel.
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It was a privilege and a pleasure to photograph Nashville Designer of the Year, Jonathon Savage of Savage Interior Design and his client’s beautiful Brentwood home, featured on the cover of the current issue of Nashville Lifestyles Magazine At Home. More images of this home to come in a later post. In the meantime, be sure to grab a copy of the spring/summer issue now. You don’t want to miss it.
Excited to share some new black & white studio work with a moody vibe.
Model: Ashley Owens, Nashville TN
Newly, is a Nashville based eCommerce venture created by five local entrepreneurs. Their home products are 100% recycled with clean and modern styling. I photographed the owners and some of their products for an article in Nashville Lifestyles Magazine‘s February 2017 issue. I’m thrilled to be shooting for my new hometown magazine after living here for only 6 months and grateful for the opportunity to get to know Nashville even better through my lens.
You can read more about Newly’s mission in the article here.
I’m excited to finally blog about my trip to the South of France last summer, shooting for author, Larry Taunton. In case you missed my last post about Larry and our trip to NYC, I’ll include his bio again. Larry is an American author, columnist and cultural commentator. A frequent television and radio guest, he has appeared on CNN, CNN International, Fox News, Al Jazeera America, and BBC. You can find his columns on issues of faith and culture in The Atlantic, USA Today, CNN.com, and The Blaze. Mr. Taunton has been quoted by Rush Limbaugh, The New York Times, The Chicago Tribune, TIME, Vanity Fair, and NPR, among others. He is the author of The Grace Effect and The Faith of Christopher Hitchens.
Mr. Taunton is also the founder and executive director of the Fixed Point Foundation. In that role he has debated such high profile atheists as Christopher Hitchens, Daniel Dennett, and Michael Shermer as well as Muslim cleric Zaid Shakir. He has organized or chaired debates on science, religion, and ethics at Trinity College, Oxford University; The Edinburgh International Festival; the Melbourne Town Hall in Melbourne, Australia; Princeton University; and the Oxford Museum of Natural History. He currently divides his time between the United States and Europe.
Larry and I met because of some work I had shot for his friends Rick and Sherri Burgess. He was in the process of rebranding and revising his website and needed P.R. images of his work in Birmingham and Southern France. I jumped at the opportunity. Not only would I get to see France through my camera lens, but I would also see the work of Larry’s ministry there and benefit from being with the best tour guide, who has a vast knowledge of European history.
I brought along my good friend and fellow photographer, Emily Kicklighter, as my assistant and travel companion. Can’t think of anyone else I’d rather do work travel with. She so much fun and keeps me laughing all the time!
Larry, his family, staff and The Fixed Point Institute students were the perfect hosts at the grand French estate, which was once owned by one of Napolean’s generals, Jean-de-Dieu Saoult, who later became a Prime Minister of France. Guests are quite comfortable in the well appointed rooms, furnished with Country French antiques. The gardens are a wonderful place to lounge, read or take a nap in the hammock. We enjoyed the gorgeous scenery, excursions to nearby villages, historical tours, delicious food and interesting conversation…all in the name of work! Have camera…will [gladly] travel! And, you can experience this amazing experience in the French Countryside as well! Find out how at the end of this post.
Fresh french roses, hydrangeas and lavender, all on property, are clipped and used in vases as centerpieces for long and relaxing dinners al fresco.
Step out the back iron gates of the estate, and go for a walk or take a jog on the path that meanders for miles through villages and rural farmland.Or, take the winding road above it to the gorgeous flower covered mountaintop overlooking the villages below.
(Instagram photo from running trail)
(Instagram photo from running trail)
(Instagram photo from running trail)
Look at this incredible view!
Our visit to the city of Albi and the largest brick structure in the world, which happens to be the cathedral in the center of this village.
After spending a day touring nearby villages, it’s back to the estate for a lovely dinner prepared by staff and Fixed Point Institute students. 
The French love 2 hour long meals with lots of bread and wine. (Did I mention all the fresh bread from nearby bakeries?! You don’t count carbs while in France! It would be quite rude.) 
Crepes are a specialty in France, whether savory or sweet, and Larry has mastered the art of crepe making. Here he’s making me a sweet crepe filled with speculoos, which is like cookie butter. Oh so delicious!
Larry’s lovely wife Lauri, daughter Sasha (read The Grace Effect about Sasha’s amazing life story and adoption from Ukraine) and son Chris are delightful hosts.
During the day, Fixed Point Institute students attend seminars, led by Larry and guest speakers, in the upstairs classroom. When they aren’t in the classroom, students work on projects around the house and on the property, cook, clean guest rooms, read and study.
I looked forward to visiting nearby villages each day. When I could get a minute of spare time, I would sneak away looking for unique doors and shutters to photograph. The soft palettes, muted colors and perfect patinas in southern France are amazing! It’s quite different than Paris. Paris has more formal architecture, whereas southern France is more rural and buildings living is more quiet, casual and relaxed. If you were following my trip on Instagram or Facebook while I was there, you know that 6 out of the 7 days we were in Southern France, we did not have our luggage! We got very good at rinsing out clothes in the sink and leaving them to dry on the window ledge. We also borrowed clothes from some of the staff and students until we could purchase a few necessities when we went into town. Quite the adventure! We were glad (and relieved) when our luggage arrived the day before Emily and I left for Paris.
I spotted this house with orange shutters and cute little truck as we were driving up the very windy Black Mountain. I begged for us to stop just long enough for me to grab these shots. 
The medieval fortress of Carcassonne, which is one of the most visited towns in all of France.
Inside this medieval fortress was a modern amphitheater for concerts and events. 
From the top of the fortress you could see miles and miles of vineyards.
One of our excursions was to the Clos Bagatelle Vineyard and Winery. Owned by the same family since 1623, their story was interesting and the wine diverse. Christine was a lovely hostess for our tour and wine tasting. One of the vats was from the 18th century! If only it could tell stories about all the people who have enjoyed its wine!
We also made a visit to the village of Minerve, a 13th century medieval fortified village, which is situated on top of the gorge of the River Cesse. Population, approximately 150 people. I’ll remember it for its handmade pottery, french soaps and delicious bruschetta.
We all looked forward to experiencing the lovely meals when we arrived back at the estate, never knowing where on property we would be dining…on the lawn, in the mill or in the gazebo, with Frank Sinatra serenading us. This beautiful dinner was set in the Old Mill.
If you would like more information about traveling to this beautiful place to experience tours with Larry, or you have a college student who might be interested in the Fixed Point Institute, contact Fixed Point Foundation. Phone: (205) 414-6311
Floral Design: Tiffany Robertson of Studio Flower
It’s always a privilege to shoot a Twin Construction home…they are such great people, who do quality work and have fun while they are doing it. I’m always inspired and walk away wanting to use some elements in my own home…whether it’s unique hardware, gorgeous paint colors, interesting light fixtures or sleek modern lucite counter stools, there’s always a “take home” idea. It’s all in the details. This beautiful Homewood, Alabama cottage is no exception and it’s featured in the September issue of B Metro Magazine. Enjoy!
Heather Durham Photography was recently asked by Borrowed and Blue, a locally-focused online wedding resource, to give couples everything they need to know about my photography services.
“Birmingham weddings are their own brand of gorgeous—filled with Southern charm, refined rustic touches, and natural beauty. Trust us when we say that couples are going to want to preserve that beauty for a lifetime. That’s why today we are talking with Heather from Heather Durham Photography about all things wedding photography.” — Stephanie, Borrowed & Blue’s Market Specialist
Q&A Borrowed & Blue with Heather Durham:
How did you first get into photography? My work experience in the fashion industry and as an art director for a magazine publisher, inspired me to pursue photography. During those years of working with other photographer’s images for catalogs and editorial layouts, I became fascinated at lighting and the power of an image to tell a story, affect our emotions, and influence our behavior. I believe every work experience since college led me to this. I started my business almost 14 years ago and I can’t imagine doing anything else!
What single photo sums up your aesthetic? An image with dreamy natural light and an emotional connection…for the subject and the viewer. Here’s a few of my favorites…
As a storyteller, what draws you to a particular subject? Whatever it is that makes them unique…whether it’s their dramatic eyes, freckles across their cheeks and nose, gorgeous red hair, or maybe it’s their personality that comes out through their laugh. I just know it when I see it and it becomes my mission to speak that life into their images.
What is your favorite moment to photograph at a wedding? The First Look and moments right after. I absolutely love seeing the look on the groom’s face when he sees his bride in her wedding gown for the first time. There is so much authentic emotion in that moment. I use a long lens because I want them to completely forget I’m even there and get lost in the moment. This is their moment and their words to each other. I want to respect that.
What makes or breaks a bridal shoot? First and foremost, lighting. Beautiful light is the difference between a good image and an incredible image. I especially love back lit portraits. Rim light gives brides a lovely, ethereal glow. Second, a professional hair and makeup artist. They are worth their weight in gold. The best make up and hair artists (MUAH) know how to help brides look their very best, especially on camera. You’ve dreamed of this day all your life, invested in a gown, and so much more. Your hair and makeup should be perfect and last the entire day…from the very first getting ready shot, to the ceremony, thru dancing and finally the sendoff shot. In my opinion, MUAHs should be a non negotiable item in your budget. Yes, I feel that strongly about it.
What are some of the most photogenic spots for Birmingham engagement shoots? There are so many great spots downtown that are iconic Birmingham…the new Rotary Trail Magic City arch has been one of my favorite’s lately, Railroad Park right before sunset on the elevated bridge with the city skyline lit up behind it, The Alabama Theatre and Lyric Theatre district, Morris Avenue and the BIRMINGHAM sign at Regions Field, just to name a few. I’ve hit all of those in one shoot and love the variety it gives and the story it tells…especially if you’ve lived in Birmingham most of your life. I also love the view of the city from The Club atop Red Mountain. For natural settings, Aldridge Gardens, The Botanical Gardens and The Preserve are beautiful. And, I always love interesting bridges and a good, shallow creek like the one along Jemison Trail. The light that reflects off the water is amazing!
Where else do you love to photograph? The beach towns along Hwy 30A…Rosemary, Watersound, Carillon, Alys, Seaside, Seagrove and Grayton. I’ve grown up vacationing there since I was a young girl, so I know the area well and have seen it grow and flourish over the years into a beach haven. There’s just no place quite like it! I could work there for months on end and never run out of beautiful places to shoot. It’s my happy place!
What’s your favorite photograph you’ve ever taken? I view every shoot as the possibility for a new favorite shot! I guess right now it’s this one because it made the cover of the current issue of Birmingham Weddings Magazine. There’s nothing more gorgeous than natural light streaming in from a window or doorway. For this shot, I sat the bride on the settee in this amazing wallpapered foyer, grabbed the pillows from another room in the house and opened the front door. My assistant held a reflector to add some fill to her face. I sat down on the floor and shoot from that low angle to make the dress look more dramatic…bigger than life. The shadows bring out the detail and the highlights compliment her dewy skin. So simple, yet so lovely. (Makeup and Hair: Celine Russell | Wardrobe Styling: Mary Beth Wetzel | Photo Assistant: Andi Rice | Wedding Gown: Anne Barge from The White Room)
What’s your favorite wedding that you’ve shot? Oh! That’s so hard! I love so many! One of my favorites in the past year was Lindsey & Grant’s wedding last August. They got ready at The Tutwiler Hotel, with ceremony at St. Paul’s Cathedral downtown and reception at Iron City…such iconic Birmingham buildings on a beautiful summer day. And, the chemistry between them was a beautiful thing to watch through my lens. I’ll never forget their First Look in the gorgeous sanctuary at St. Paul’s, and Grant’s adoration through tears as she walked down the long aisle towards him.
What’s your favorite out of all the Birmingham wedding venues to shoot? I’m not sure I can name just one! There are so many amazing venues in Birmingham. The Club atop Red Mountain and Vestavia Country Club have beautiful ballrooms and views. The Tutwiler is such a beautiful historic hotel with a lovely terrace and courtyard for photographs. Iron City are B&A Warehouse are wonderfully roomy venues for big crowds and guests who enjoy a good party and love to dance. I also love Swann Lake Stables for an outdoor refined rustic setting and look forward to shooting a wedding there again in a few weeks.
What is the first thing you ask couples when they approach you? I always ask how they met. I love to hear their story, so if possible, I can incorporate that location in their Engagement Shoot. The couple below had their first date at City Cafe in Tuscaloosa while they were in college at The University of Alabama, so I was excited to be able to include that memory in their Engagement images. I also want to know the couple’s expectations for their photographer and details of their wedding plans and wedding style to make sure we are a good fit.
What’s the biggest mistake that couples make when choosing their photographer? Not looking at a photographer’s entire wedding day gallery from getting ready to departure. I encourage all couples to look at a full gallery, not just the select shots photographers post on social media and portfolio websites. It’s important that a photographer know how to perform in every lighting situation that’s thrown at them. A photographer may have beautiful natural light photos, but then when they find themselves in a dark, candle lit reception room or outside at a dark sendoff, they don’t have the skills or lighting equipment to make those images look beautiful too. By looking at an entire wedding gallery you can make sure there is a consistency in the photographer’s work.
What makes Heather Durham Photography different from other wedding photographers? Wedding photographers are with the bride and groom more than anyone else on their wedding day. And prior to the big day, we exchange, emails phone calls and texts about details. I’ve become friends and still keep up with so many of my brides from over the years. To me, it’s about more than just doing my job as a photographer. I’m a storyteller, a problem solver, a fixer, a stress reliever, a veil attacher, a dress bustler, a face blotter, and a tie straightener. I’ve even let a mother of the bride borrow my earrings for family portraits when she forgot hers! I’m whatever a bride and groom need me to be on the wedding day to help them relax and enjoy the day. I think brides would say that my attention to detail and willingness to serve sets me apart from other photographers.
What tips do you have for couples who have never been photographed before? Relax, have fun, don’t always look at the camera, look at each other a lot, talk to each other, and don’t be afraid to move. Flip through magazines and see what shots/poses you are drawn to. Movement and shots where you are unaware of the camera feel more natural and editorial. Even if it’s doesn’t feel natural or come easy for you, it’s my job to make it look like that way.
What are some of your upcoming projects for the future? I just returned from France where I was shooting for a commercial client. I can’t wait to finish editing the images. It was a dream job! Stay tuned for the blog post…
Also, two months ago I moved to Nashville after living and working in Birmingham all of my life. I will still be shooting wherever in the world my camera takes me, and I’ll always shoot in Birmingham, because that’s home and where all of my family is; but my goal for now is establishing and growing my business in Music City. My focus will be on editorial and commercial assignments and weddings. For years, I’ve had this secret little career goal to document behind the scenes of a musician’s life on tour. I guess I’m in the right city now to pursue that dream. We’ll see what happens…I’m thrilled for new adventures with my camera and new locations to shoot in this exciting town!
Feeling inspired? Book Heather Durham Photography today.
For the rest of your wedding planning needs, be sure to check out Borrowed & Blue.
