Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Getting ready for the Tough Mudder!!!

This is TOTALLY unrelated to photography...well I take that back...its slightly related if your wedding date is March 12, 2011. If it is, while you are getting married, Leigh and I will be competing in one of the toughest events on the planet - the Tough Mudder!

The Tough Mudder in March is being held just outside of Atlanta the weekend of March 12th. Its a 10 mile course that involves multiple obstacles designed by British Special Forces.

Check out the Tough Mudder website at www.toughmudder.com and watch some of the videos...its AWESOME!

Friday, October 22, 2010

Nexis Photography Review - Kayla and Shane!

All I can say is WOW! We have had some amazing clients, and many have written us some fantastic reviews and testimonials...but I've got to say this one is up near the top! Kayla and Shane were married in Florida in May of this year and she recently wrote us the following review. This is what makes us love what we do...doing anything we can to make our bride and groom have the wedding of their dreams. To us, that means so much more than just taking pictures...check this out:


"We chose Nexis Photography as the photographers for our wedding based on previous friends that had used them with amazing results. My husband and I first met them at a bridal fair in Prattville, and immediately we felt at ease with them. We had spoken to other photographers at the event but none of them seemed to reach out to us like Matt & Leigh did. My husband, (who has never been one that liked to take pictures) was so excited after meeting them that he would not leave the event without booking them for our upcoming wedding. And I have to say that this was the best decision we could have made in regards to the wedding planning.

We wanted our engagement pictures to be special...as most couples do, but we wanted our pictures to incorporate baseball, since my husband played in college at the time. Matt came up with the idea of having some pictures taken at the Biscuits Stadium downtown, and he even got in contact with the administration and made it happen.

We had the best time ever taking our pictures and we were absolutley amazed at the end product. We had never seen any pictures like these before and we were so proud to show them off.

As amazed at we were at our engagement pictures, we could never have imagined how beautiful our wedding pictures were to turn out. It was a gorgeous Saturday in May (in Florida) so of course it was a little hot. We had made it through the ceremony and were on the way to the reception. Upon arriving to the ceremony I quickly noticed that something was not right with my family...mainly my dad. As it turns out he had to be rushed to the emergency room and ended up missing the entire reception. Needless to say I was an emotional wreck and Leigh stepped right in ushering me away from the crowd, taking me aside and talking to me. She was a shoulder for me to lean on while managing to keep me calm. After I was ready to re-enter the reception I had so much on my mind that the last thing I could think of was the reception agenda (cake cutting, first dances, and etc). But thankfully I didn't have to Matt and Leigh stepped in and quickly got the reception flowing smoothly again. I was so grateful to have them there, because without them I would have been a wreck as well as the reception.

We kept hoping by the end of the reception that my dad would make it back so we could at least have our father-daughter dance. Unfortunately my dad was not able to make it back, but that didn't stop Matt and Leigh. Even though the reception was over they offered to come to the hospital, along with our dj, and take pictures, so that me and my dad could have our first dance. Now I know I can say that not many photographers would have even offered this, especially considering how late it was in the night at an out of town event. This just proves that Matt and Leigh are truly special people. They do things out of the kindness of their heart, and they genuinely care about others...it wasn't about the money to them, it really was about making our wedding day special...and it was apparent that they would go to any length to make this happen.

You can imagine how upset my dad was that he missed the reception, but what we didn't count on was how the pictures would allow him to be a part of every moment of the reception. He was amazed at the story that the pictures told and upon finishing he was in tears. The pictures allowed him to experience the reception, although he was not physically present. For pictures to speak that loudly, you know you must have some amazing and truly gifted photographers.

There are not enough words to express our gratitude towards Matt and Leigh for all that they have done. Our wedding was a very memorable time, but we are especially thankful to have such beautiful keepsakes to remind us of that special day. We are so lucky to have had them as photographers, and now we are even luckier to be able to say that they are our friends. Not only have we been able to see how wonderful they both are from a professional/business aspect, but now we have been able to experience their genuineness and appreciate their character, personalities, and spirit as friends.

Anyone that chooses Nexis Photography will not be disappointed. Not only will you have amazing pictures that will serve as great memories forever, but you will have excellent proficient photographers that will take every effort in ensuring your day is special and is everything you ever dreamed of." - Kayla & Shane Moye


Thank you guys...you two are the best!
- M &L

Nexis Photography Review - Kristina and Jacob!

Here is another great review from some great clients that were married last year. Things were so crazy this year with Leigh's pregnancy so we are just now getting around to asking our clients to write us a review.

"I highly recommend Nexis Photography to anyone and everyone! I have been in many weddings and have never been apart of picture shoots that were so organized as Nexis, especially with the family shoot. Most family shoots take an hour. Ours took 30 mins. They were wonderful to work with, very layed back, creative, and their pictures are beyond what we could of asked for. After every picture shoot we walked away feeling like Matt and Leigh were old friends instead of photographers we hired." - Kristina and Jacob

Thanks guys!
- M&L

Friday, October 15, 2010

Review from Jessica and Cory!

Jessica and Cory were married on May 1, 2010. They were an awesome couple, and we had so much fun shooting their wedding. They recently wrote us a review...check it out!



"If you are looking for AMAZING pictures and photographers with a sense of humor as well as a complete professionalism, then look no further! Matt and Leigh were beyond wonderful. I first met them at a bridal show in Prattville, AL and fell in love with their photographs. When it was finally time to start planning, I called Matt and Leigh and fortunately they had our date available. For me, the pictures of our wedding were the most important aspect of the planning and I couldn't be happier with our results. From the bridal session to our "big day" I have received so many compliments on our pictures. Matt and Leigh were there the moment I started getting ready until I told them to go home. They definitely calmed my nervousness with their humor and went out of their way to be amazing. Leigh even helped me get my dress and shoes on and Matt bought me and my bridesmaids and Leigh taco bell!!! My husband left for Basic Military Training ten days after we were married and took some of our wedding pictures with him. I went to his graduation in San Antonio and the whole weekend all I heard from the people in his military flight was about how amazing our pictures were and who took them. Matt and Leigh are definitely worth the time and money!! In the end, we not only have amazing pictures but we have made two wonderful friends."
- Jessica


Thanks Jessica and Cory!
- M&L

Monday, October 4, 2010

Introducing Kelsey Reese!

She's here! Kelsey Reese Abele was born at 2:32pm on Friday, October 1st. She was 7lbs 6oz and 20 inches long.

Leigh and I didn't find out the gender of our baby, so it was a wonderful surprise when she came out and we found out we had a daughter. Labor and delivery could not have gone better...we had been praying about that and for a healthy baby for 9 months, and we are so thankful the Lord answered our prayers in that way. We actually had a photographer friend photograph some before and during the delivery, but we did take a few snapshots throughout the last couple of days. Here are just a few of our pics to share with everyone.


This is Leigh, aka - Superwoman, only a few minutes after labor. She looks like she just put makeup on for hot date...doesn't exactly look like a woman who labored for 11 hours.

Mommy checking out her little bundle of joy...

Sweet little Kelsey...she was very calm after birth.


Daddy and his little girl...

Nothing like holding your daughter in your arms...

Love the look on her face...she is already very expressive.

This is one of my favorites. She was just so calm and content with Leigh holding her. She just looked around the room wide-eyed and coo'ed a little here and there...it was so sweet.

haha...making faces....awesome!

One of my favorite moments of the day...Leigh and baby resting quietly.

So sweet!

She was suckleing while sleeping...it was so funny listening to the little "popping" sounds she was making with her lips. You don't get the full effect with the picture, but its still cute.

Sleeping...being a baby is hard work.

My little girl...

I can get used to this dad thing...

Don't let her fool you...this chick has a serious grip. I wonder how early is too early to start boot camp? Future boot camp champion in the making :)

Hand on the face...it looked so comfortable I figured I'd try it too...

She is a cute one! I give Leigh 100% credit for that :)

...at this point Kelsey is wondering what is that big black thing dad keeps sticking in my face. It clicks alot....hmmm....

A flash of a smile...it was probably gas...but I'll take it! I can't wait until she is smiling and laughing all the time...its gonna be fun.

More looking around...all kinds of new stuff to check out. Although newborns can't see that far, she is definitely looking at something.

Just a little kiss from mommy...

I don't know if you can tell from the picture, but she was looking at me out of the corner of her eyes...it so cute...and it made me laugh.
Alright, so its official...I'm one of those parents that just gushes over every single thing his daughter does. I'm gonna try hard not to spoil her...its going to be tough :)
Continue to keep us in your prayers...we covet wisdom to raise our child properly and take care of all her needs. We also want sleep...which is a rare luxury these days :) Thank you to everyone who has given us gifts, come by to see us, prayed for us, or just wished us well. We are incredibly blessed and look forward to the upcoming days, weeks, and months as Kelsey grows.
-M&L


Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Video Blog Update!

First video blog update...check it out!

- M&L

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Haha...who is updating this blog???

First of all...yes...both Leigh and I are still alive :)

Wow...I can't believe its been almost 3 months since I've updated the blog. In case you didn't know...Leigh (my beautiful wife) is pregnant and we are expecting our first child in about 4 weeks!

We decided early in the year...well actually, late last year to only book weddings through May of 2010 so that Leigh wouldn't have to shoot weddings when she was uber-pregnant. It worked out well, because an all day 8+ hour wedding can be physically tough on anyone, let along an 8 month pregnant woman.

Anyway, are now booking weddings for the 2011 year starting in April. I will try to update the blog with a video post later in the week...that should be fun :)

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Abbe and Josh's Wedding - Opelika, AL

Abbe and Josh's Wedding was a great way to cap off a short, but fun wedding season for us. As I'm sure everyone knows, Leigh and I are expecting our first child in October...and since we truly believe in having 2 photographers at a wedding, we decided not to book any weddings for 2010 after May. Don't worry, we'll be available for weddings again starting in March of 2011.

Abbe and Josh were married at First Baptist Church of Opelika. These two were so great to work with...they were accomodating, friendly, and relaxed, even though there was definitely some nervous anticipation right before they saw each other for the first time in the day.

Some of the things we'll remember most from this wedding: Abbe's grandmother...super nice lady, the hilarious groomsmen, Abbe's beautiful dress, the expressions on Abbe and Josh's face when they first saw each other, the awesome Jordan-Hare and Toomer's Corner cakes, Josh leading the final WAR EAGLE cheer before they left the reception, and taking some final pictures at Samford Hall.

Abbe and Josh, we wish you the best as you start your married lives together. We hope you enjoy the slideshow above of some of our favorites. All of your wedding images are online in your gallery which can be accessed by going to www.nexisphotography.com and clicking on "Client Proofing" and then looking for your gallery.

Congratulations!
- M&L

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Anna and Patrick's Wedding - Lake Martin, AL

Anna and Patrick were married on a sunny May afternoon at a beautiful lake house on the shores of Lake Martin. The ceremony was very cool...Matt got to shoot it from a pontoon boat floating out in the water, while Leigh was left on land to do most of the hard work :)

Talk about a FUN wedding...these guys know how to throw a party! After a somewhat traditional reception filled with dancing, speeches, cake cutting, garter/boquet, etc...the wedding party stripped down to their swim suits and jumped into the lake together! From there, the reception turned into a lake party! We loved the way Anna planned out her wedding...it was beautiful and elegant, but also very comtemporary and cool all at the same time!

Anna and Patrick, congratulations on your wedding and we wish you guys all the best as you start your married lives. We hope you like the slideshow of some of our favorites listed above. All of your pictures are available in your gallery which can be accessed by going to www.nexisphotography.com and clicking on "Client Proofing" and then looking for your gallery.

Congrats!
- M&L

Monday, May 31, 2010

Kayla and Shane's Wedding - Pensacola, FL

Kayla and Shane's Wedding took place on a beautiful, sunny afternoon in Pensacola, FL. This was our second Florida wedding of the year...and just like the first, it was beautiful!

Ceremony - Old Christ Church
Reception - Pensacola Yacht Club

Kayla picked a beautiful church with a large stained glass window behind the altar...we loved the way it lit the church and provided some stunning backlight in the afternoon sun. The church was packed too...obviously Kayla and Shane have developed alot of great friendships over the years, because it was standing room only. The reception was beautiful as well, and everyone had a great time eating, talking, dancing, etc. There were a few hiccups throughout the day, but at the end of the day, two beautiful people who love each other were married surrounded by their family and friends. Kayla and Shane, thank you for allowing us to be a part of your special day! You two were so much fun to work with, and you really made us feel like good friends who were there to enjoy the day with you. We wish you the best as you start your married lives together. We hope you enjoy the slideshow of some of our favorites above...it may move a bit quick, but we had so many favorites that we had to put them to a fast moving song to get them all in :) All of your pictures are now online in your gallery, which can be accessed by going to www.nexisphotography.com and clicking on "Client Proofing" then looking for your picture!

Congratulations, and all the best!
- M&L

Sunday, May 9, 2010

Jessica and Cory's Wedding - Montgomery, AL

Oh man...where to start with this wedding? First off...it was AWESOME! Jessica and Cory are two of the most fun people I think we've met. They cracked us up the entire day...which if you know us...we love to joke around/goof off...while always remaining professional :)

Ceremony - Maxwell AFB Chapel 1

Reception - The Alley Station

Leigh has unofficially awarded Jessica with our "Most Organized Bride" award. Jessica had everything planned out to the tee...and even knew her formal poses like the back of her hand. She made command decisions and didn't waffle back and forth when someone asked her anything. In other words...she was the freaking Bomb!

Cory was hilarious...and was a trooper taking pictures all day long. He also is one strong dude...you have to see this pose these two did for us...are you kidding me??? WOW...he didn't even break a sweat...coulda probably held her there for 10 minutes. Jessica probably deserves some credit as well...I don't know many (or any) girls who could do that!

Jessica and Cory...thanks for allowing us to be a part of your special day...we thoroughly enjoyed working with you. We also want to thank both of you guys for the sacrifice in your service to our country. Cory is going to be a para-rescue trooper (hope that is the right term)...and is going off for training in a day or two. We wanted to get these pictures online before Cory had to leave so he could see them. We hope you guys enjoy the slideshow of some of our favorites above. All of your pictures are online in your gallery which can be accessed by going to http://www.nexisphotography.com/, clicking on "Client Proofing" and looking for your gallery.
All the best!
- M&L

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Sarah and Kevin's Wedding - Montgomery, AL

Sarah and Kevin's Wedding was simply amazing! We had so much fun shooting this wedding that we would do it all over again!

Ceremony: Landmark Church of Christ
Reception: The Waters

You can tell a lot about the personality of the bride and groom by their wedding party...and Sarah and Kevin's wedding party was HILARIOUS! We probably spent as much time laughing and joking around as we did taking pictures. Sarah and Kevin obviously love each other and love the Lord…that was evident in their wedding ceremony…something we always appreciate and enjoy seeing out of another young couple. They are also HUGE fans of the TV series “Lost” and had their own little tribute to Lost by using the same intro music for a “Lost” episode to lead into their ceremony. Sarah and Kevin, we really enjoyed being a part of your special day, and we rejoice with you as you begin your new life together. We hope you enjoy the slideshow of some of our favorites above. All of your pictures are online in your gallery which can be accessed by going to: www.nexisphotography.com and clicking on “Client Proofing” then looking for your gallery.

Congratulations!
- M&L

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Alane and Andrew's Wedding - Enterprise, AL

Alane and Andrew were married on March 6, 2010. You couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day...especially as crazy as the weather has been lately. This was a beautiful wedding...both venues that Alane picked for the ceremony and reception were perfect. Alane and Andrew were great to work with...they were relaxed and let us follow them around all day like paparazzi without complaining even once :) Alane and Andrew, we wish you guys the very best as you start your new lives together. We hope you like the slideshow above of some of our favorites. All of your pictures are online in your gallery which can be accessed by going to: www.nexisphotography.com and clicking on "Client Proofing" and then looking for your gallery.

Congratulations!
- M&L

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Sarah's Bridal Session - Downtown Montgomery, AL

Alright...since Sarah and Kevin were married last Saturday, we are finally allowed to post her bridals for all to see! We had a great time shooting Sarah's bridals, and loved the way they turned out! Sarah has a beautiful smile, and was so easy to work with...and she also brought along her soon to be mother-in-law and sister-in-law to help...they were amazing too! We can't wait to get Sarah and Kevin's wedding pictures uploaded...they are gonna be awesome! In the mean time, enjoy the slideshow of some of our favorites from Sarah's bridal session!

Thanks!
- M&L

Friday, February 26, 2010

Mikaela and Zac's Wedding - Ft. Meyers, FL

Wow...where do I begin with this blog post...there's so much to say. Zac is a great friend of ours, he was good friends in high school with Leigh, and then after Leigh and I met, he became one of my best friends...he was even a groomsman in my wedding. About 3 or 4 years ago, Zac felt God call him to Ft. Meyers, FL to study in music ministry. Since then I've only seen Zac a handful of times, but always enjoyed catching up whenever possible.

Not long ago Zac let us know he was engaged to the "most amazing woman in the world" he said...and asked us if we would be willing to fly down to Ft. Meyers, FL to photograph the wedding. Let me think about this, fly down to sunny South Florida in January where the temperature in Alabama is in the 30's and in Ft. Meyers its in the 70's....hmmm...tough call. Long story short, Zac flew us down and put us up for a brief, but awesome weekend! We met Mikaela, and immediately congratulated Zac on this amazing feat he had pulled off. Mikaela is a beautiful woman whose personallity is just as attractive, and loves the Lord...Zac...bullseye brother!

Anyway, I'm making this post far too long so let me wrap it up. The wedding was awesome, there were far too many incredible moments to list them all, but here are a few that stuck out in our minds: Moes at the rehearsal dinner...AWESOME, Julie's handmade alter, the groomsmen's prank...tiny pants for Zac, Matt Lynch...nuff said...haha, Zac's song to Mikaela, the beautiful reception location (someone's back yard...wow), the awesome cake, Zacman dancing...Zacman's dad dancing, and the last minute decision to go with a reception tent that totally paid off due to some showers (good call Mikaela). Zac and Mikaela, we really enjoyed being part of your special day. Mississippi isn't too far from Alabama, so we hope to see you guys every once in a while. God bless you, and we love you!

We hope you like the slideshow above of some of our favorites, and all of your pictures are online in your gallery which can be accessed by going to www.nexisphotography.com and clicking on "Client Proofing" then looking for your gallery.

Congratulations!
- Matt and Leigh

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Maconica and Michael's Wedding - Auburn, AL

Maconica and Michael's Wedding was beautiful! Maconica and Michael had an awesome wedding party...all of the bridesmaids and groomsmen were hilarious and alot of fun to be around throughout the day. Some of the groomsmen even took to Leigh a bit and everytime they saw her at the reception called out her name and asked her to take a picture...it cracked her up! Maconica and Michael you guys were great to work with and your wedding was amazing. It is a testament to how much you have touched other people's lives to see how many friends and family came out to celebrate your wedding with you (...despite the bitter cold that evening)! Congratulations and we wish you the best as you start your new life together. Check out the slideshow of some of our favorites above...and all of your images are now online in your gallery which can be accessed by going to: www.nexisphotography.com, clicking on "Client Proofing" and then clicking on your picture to enter the gallery.

Enjoy
- M&L