Hampton Roads, Virginia Documentary Photographer | Jess Nicole Photography
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the blog

where stories are told

Norfolk Couple's Day in the Life Session | Norfolk Photographer

8/31/2023

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When I arrived at this couple's home, we had a roundabout idea of what the day would hold for us. But I never knew it would take us all over Hampton Roads, exploring the ins and outs, and back home! But boy, did we have a good time.
couple walking along high street in portsmouth virginia
We first arrived in Portsmouth and browsed the Farmer's Market. We saw lots of local vendors and artisans, picked up some fresh fruits and vegetables, and even found some new eco-friendly kitchen products to use. 
couple walking in norfolk library
From there we took the scenic route- the ferry across the Elizabeth River- to the Waterside District of Norfolk. We enjoyed some wings before heading out to explore Slover Library (this place is incredible, a true Norfolk GEM!), Prince Books, and Selden Market- all must do's when visiting Norfolk! 
couple walking in suffolk backyard
The ferry back was just as beautiful as the way there. The breeze off the water was amazingly welcome. We went home and hung out for a bit, grabbed up their perfect furry sidekick and headed off to the dog agility course in Chesapeake for a little training session.... and if you're wondering, the pup was pretty amazing. She clearly loved being there and doing all of her exercises. 
girl walking dog in suffolk backyard
Your Day in the Life Session can reflect you. It can be all home, all adventure, or a little of both.  It's all up to you what you want to do. 
Wanna talk about what a Day in the Life session can look like for you? Schedule a call with me! We can have a zero pressure chat about what your needs are and how I can best help you tell your story. Click here to schedule a call or send me a message. 
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Coffee + Baby Bumps | Hampton Roads Photographer

7/23/2019

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Maternity sessions hold a very special place in my heart, it's like the beginning of a new chapter in a couple's life. Instead of shooting this session in-home, we decided to take it outdoors! This maternity session took us to downtown Norfolk, Virginia. Honestly, Norfolk has so many hidden gems to see and explore. With a vibrant art community, even just an evening stroll downtown can bring you breathtaking historic architecture, art, stunning views of the Elizabeth River, great food, and incredibly diverse neighborhoods.
historic brick home along the stonemason streets in downtown norfolk virginia
We decided to stop for coffee and tea at The Cure in Norfolk and then take a little stroll. Nothing was really planned, you know me, I just go with the flow. I shoot what I see and I don't typically guide poses. This couple had no fears about being in front of the camera and let me capture some super sweet moments. They shared stories about how they met, how they got together, and how part of their relationship was long distance. But now, a whole new adventure is beginning and they have no idea the way their hearts will expand and grow with undeniable love once their sweet baby boy is born.
couple sitting at the window bar at the cure coffee house in downtown norfolk virginia
We left the coffee house and strolled down to the riverfront. They love taking walks downtown and taking in the city (and I have a feeling baby boy will love it too!) Dad is a fellow photographer and videographer, so he brings his camera along on all of their dates and documents a lot of their daily lives. It was important for them to have me capture that aspect of their relationship.
We walked, we chatted, we drank fantastic coffee, we watched the sunset over the river, and even saw the cutest 3-legged dog out for his evening walk with his owner!
pregnant couple walking along the riverfront in downtown norfolk at sunset.
pregnant woman walking holding hands with her husband in downtown norfolk
pregnant couple sitting on bench in downtown norfolk beside elizabeth river
gingko tree leaves in japanese garden in norfolk, virginia
couple taking pictures in the japanese garden overlooking the koi pond in norfolk, virginia
tree with cream colored blooms in downtown norfolk virginia
Stay tuned for their newborn shoot coming soon!
Also, if you're in the area, stop by The Cure- the coffee and tea was absolutely fantastic.
If you'd like to schedule a newborn session with me, use the contact tab above and let's get something scheduled for you!
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Intimate Farmhouse Wedding | Hampton Roads Photographer | Jess Nicole Photography

9/17/2018

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I think Hampton Roads will always remember the 2018 Hurricane Season; I think we will all remember it as "the time we dodged the bullet". Hurricane Florence was headed straight for us as a raging, massive Category 4 hurricane. And if you've ever been to Hampton Roads, you know we have some serious flooding issues. We're knee deep in water at the first sight of a raincloud. I've seen people kayaking the streets of Downtown Norfolk. 
Whenever I think back to Hurricane Florence, I'll always remember my "hurricane bride". We nervously watched the news and anticipated the storm. Each day it got closer and I said, "Okay, I've got to call my bride. We need to make a plan." And when she answered, she was the epitome of cool. Absolutely calm, collected, and totally unworried about the impending natural disaster just off our coast. She assured me that she had already had her freakout and was now at peace, but it took her a whole lunch break to calm me down. I'm not kidding.
She assured me everything would be fine, the venue was far enough north that we might get rain, but no flooding. Hurricane or no hurricane, this wedding was happening. Why? Because this union was 10 years in the making. So, I sat and watched the news religiously for the next 72 hours. And wouldn't you know, the giant monster shifted- we were in the all clear. Just like she said. Crazy how things work out like that, huh? It must be fate.  
bride and groom walking in field of tall grass
It was my favorite kind of wedding. The kind where everyone is your friend. The kind where you feel like you belong. The kind where you feel like you are welcomed into their family. Intimate and warm, filled with love and laughter. Fourteen people gathered there that day to witness the union of this couple and it was absolutely beautiful. I stepped out of the car and was immediately greeted and hugged by everyone. That's the kind of wedding it was. 
The grey skies and remnants of Hurricane Florence were brightened by bold yellow sunflowers, lush greenery, floral accents, and twinkling lights hung around the front porch giving the perfect ambiance. Truly an evening to remember. 
close up detail of bridal bouquet of sunflower blooms
The old English Manor style farmhouse sat on 23 private acres and made the perfect venue for this small and intimate wedding. From the mammoth fireplaces to the ivy covered walls, the farmhouse oozed country charm and understated elegance. The candles and strings of lights gave the perfect romantic touches. Throughout the breezy evening on that big farmhouse front porch, there were stories shared, tears shed, good food, and a whole lot of smiles. There was even a lost dog, a search party, and an emotional, happy reunion! Also, fabulous cupcakes. Let's not forget the important things in life. What's a wedding without cake after all?

bride and groom share their first dance as husband and wife on the front porch of farmhouse wedding venue
Here's a few more images from their special day. Feel free to leave a comment and congratulate the Mr. & Mrs.!
My personal note to the newlyweds is this: I wish you many years of happiness and adventures. Truly, you two are were made for each other. Come hell or high water (sometimes literally), I know that you two will embrace whatever life throws your way because you've got each other. Thank you for including me on your wedding day, my Hurricane Bride! 

Make sure to follow me on Instagram and on Facebook. If you'd like to book  your small wedding, courthouse nuptials , or elopement with me, use the contact tab above and let's chat! 


bride and groom exchange rings in an intimate ceremony
close up detail of wedding cupcakes illuminated by candlelight
bride and groom kiss after intimate ceremony
wooden sign with bride and grooms name engraved
old English manor style farmhouse with screened in front porch lit with café lights and candles
close up details of brides dress and grooms hand resting on her knee with wedding rings
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    Jess is a photographer serving families located in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. She specializes in documentary and storytelling photography.

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" Jess came into our home and captured beautiful memories for us that we will cherish forever. She made us feel at ease and just captured us as we are- you could actually see everyone's true character in the shots. These are the moments that make up the good stuff of life. It's what's real. It's what matters."

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family photographer Jessica Hubbard located in Chesapeake, Virginia
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  • Home
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