So. I’ve mentioned my ever-growing affection for long lenses in a couple of posts recently. I’ve been spending more and more time using my 105 mm at portrait sessions (and getting results like this, this, and this!), but that focal length is a little bit too long for some situations, and since it’s technically a lens meant for macro photography, it doesn’t focus as fast as my other prime lenses. It also doesn’t have as wide an aperture, and being able to open a lens up in a dark setting is essential to getting crisp, clean shots in churches and reception venues. So we finally did it: We bought the Nikkor 85 mm f/ 1.4 G. It’s been sold out at most online retailers and in most camera shops, but after calling nearly every Nikon dealer between Florida and Virginia, we found one in Burke. Let the heavens sing! Since we got it on Saturday, we’ve shot two engagement sessions, and that 85 hardly came off my camera either day. I’m hooked.

Speaking of hooked — I am not a coffee drinker, nor do I have plans of ever becoming one, but oh my gosh, meet my new best friend, the frappuccino. I’d had a couple here and there in the past, but they didn’t really do it for me back in the day. About a month and a half ago, on a super hot day, I decided to try Starbucks’ new Caramel Ribbon Crunch frappe. Hooked, I tell you. If I could afford it, I’d probably be getting 90% of my daily calorie requirements and 200% of my daily sugar needs from those things.

And I have no segue planned to transition to my last topic. So I’ll end this simply: Blue Ridge Mountains, I love you.~ Laura