I headed to the Progress Energy Performing Arts Center and Fletcher Hall for a unique engagement session in downtown Raleigh this week. I’ll be honest with you that this was the first time that I’ve done a photo shoot that involved vehicles but I’m always up for a challenge. After Melanie and David booked me to photograph their wedding this September, David shared with me his love for motorcycles. The Ducati 828 is next on his list for purchase.
As all of us discussed how we could possibly work that into a session I shared with them an idea for a session that had a “secret rendezvous” feel to it. My inspiration was driven by James Bond and a few graphic novels like Frank Miller’s “300″ and his use of muted colors and vibrant red. So far I haven’t treated any of the images with spot color toning but I really like how a few of them turned out. It’s basically your classic story of “Girl calls boy… boy races to meet her… boy and girl pose for pretty pictures… girl escapes on the boys motorcycle… gets pulled over for speeding… they both live happily ever after though.” You know how it goes…
A special thanks to Elizabeth from Sweet Life for helping out and for providing the fabric tulle. Also a HUGE thank you to the following companies that let us borrow their vehicles.
Ducati 828 provide by: Matison Motorsports
Porsche provided by: Leith Porsche of Cary

We found a painted mural that perfectly complimented their outfits.



I wanted to photograph them jumping because the graffiti wall behind them reminded me of wind.










Some marriage advice David… never keep a lady waiting for you at the ballet. :)



“Revvin’ up your engine… Listen to her howlin’ roar… Metal under tension… Beggin’ you to touch and go… Highway to the Danger Zone! Ride into the Danger Zone!”


Melanie makes this red Porsche look smokin’!

A red Ducati 828 never looked so good! This might be my favorite…





I’d like to point out the license plate on this engagement photo. They are getting married 9-5-10. I thought this was a fun idea. I even used an NC plate for authenticity.

Busted Melanie!



Get a room already… Geez… :)



The Raleigh skyline and the metal wall of the Convention Center show off the giant tree mural.








7 comments
Hi Melody,
Just had time to review your photo’s. Stacey and Bruce is here and she thinks you look so much like your mother. Those pictures are so nice. Now, relax and get ready for that big day. You both look so good together.
Your aunt Sandy
Hey girl, picitures are really neat. Grannie would liked your red shoes I do also Love Aunt Dorene
Hi, Melanie! I finally had time to see your pics. These are uber gnarley! It’s like film noir meets futurama. (Carrie Bradshaw, watch out!:) It reminds me of Rome so much. I can’t wait to meet David and to see you at the shower. You two appear to have mucho corazon and a lot of passion for each other. Keep it forever. Hope you guys are well. Don’t stress out too much, just enjoy the journey of wedding planning and the fun details that go with it.
Wow… simply awesome!!!!!!
Wow, Craig! You just kicked it up a few notches! Excellent work!
Fantastic! Great concept, excellent execution. Thanks for letting me hang out! (Your favorite is my favorite too — that is a killer shot.)
I don’t know the couple, but this is a fabulous shoot! I’m a fan of your work, but this is by far my favorite!! Great job!