Tomme Hilton Gallery

chronicles. of. life.

Tomme — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:31:47 +0000

If you do not know me, I am Erica Billingsley, Tomme’s assistant. I have been working with her since JUNE and love it! Absolutely love it! But besides all that… this post is about My Chronicle of Life with Tomme. So brace yourselves… as this is a L-O-N-G post about each stage of my life with her.

{Stage 1} engaged.

I got engaged in August of 2007. I had seen Tomme’s work before hand and set her website aside for when I become engaged. Photography was the only thing I wanted to spend money on. It is my most important feature of my life. Not as a skill. No No… That, I am still learning. But more because of the moment each photograph holds. Photographs are irreplaceable. And I LOVE to look back on moments and remember that ’special day’.

I met Tomme and knew right away that I wanted to sign her. I didn’t even have to meet with any other photographer… just her. So, I signed with her and Tomme did my engagement photos that November.

{Stage 2} bridals.

I had thoroughly analyzed her work before I chose her… knowing she would produce wonderful unique images. BUT, in order for them to be as AWESOME as I wanted… I knew I had to get dirty… And I did.

For my bridals, I was in a field with grass, crickets, spiders (yuck) and mesquites (i think i ended up with 14 bites)… then I rolled around in the middle of a road… Dont worry ladies… the dirt comes out!

{Stage 3} the wedding.

Once your wedding day arrives, there is nothing to do but put your faith in your photographer. It is ALL in their hands. Because THEY ARE THE REASON YOU REMEMBER YOUR WEDDING.

{Stage 4} maternity.

My husband and I found out shortly after our wedding that we were expecting. SURPRISE to us! And of course the first thing I did was contact Tomme. DUH! Its another big moment in my life. You think I dont want me captured when I am 30+ lbs over weight! Many think not… but to be honest… Tomme made me feel like a SEXY pregnant woman. Let’s just say I walked away from this shoot feeling more confident than I did the entire pregnancy! Come on, any woman who gains 30+ lbs doesn’t feel ’sexy’ or ‘pretty’… EVEN IF THEY ARE PREGNANT! I walked away feeling like a MODEL!

{Stage 5} baby.

And then came baby… HOUSTON! A couple weeks ago Tomme and I scheduled for her to come and shoot my baby, Houston’s newborn photos. Sigh. Didn’t work as planned. Let’s just say Newborn photography has a different skill… PATIENCE! and more PATIENCE! and then waiting. This was our first attempt at ‘Newborn’ photography. And well… ahem, yea.

Although, I wouldn’t say it was a complete failure. Our first mistake was trying to shoot his photos during the main time Matt and I keep him awake… Oh well… But, as always, Tomme still got some great shots in between the crying…

Tomme and I called it a night. So the next day I started thinking… since I had started shooting with Tomme in October (2009), my confidence was not quite up there… I still get a little jittery before I shoot. So, I knew I had to grow a pair of… you know… and try to shoot on my own. SO, I tackled this shoot myself. AHHH. Dont worry, I did good! So good, I impressed myself! And Tomme!

{Stage 6} Family

My family (entire family) is having a photos session with Tomme this spring! So, I will be sure to post them soon!

Thanks for staying with me and reading my chronicles of life. I think its very important to develop a relationship with your photographer. Because, they are the ones that help you remember the important moments in your life. Before I was Tomme’s assistant, I told myself I would use her for every important moment in my life. Because the first time I met her, she was not just a photographer, she became a friend.

Baby Bump

Tomme — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 02:22:32 +0000

I believe if you’ve seen my blog before, you know how much I adore Jaime and Reggie. They are the most dynamic people you will meet. Shooting their wedding then getting to shoot their newest addition, London is the best thrill I can imagine.

London should make his grand entrance in April and I hope I get to get some images for them to post. I remember Jaime’s aunt Kim writing me on Facebook telling me they were expecting a girl – I didn’t realize they had a change of plans. I had bought pink bows and pink paper and all kinds of girlie props only to find out he would have more parts than than i was bargaining for.

Erica and I are working hard on adding more to the portfolio. Newborns are what we have been encountering lately, so if you know of a new family - encourage them to contact us to have images of them as new angels in this world.

Until next time.

under construction

Tomme — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:28:33 +0000

We are in the process of redesigning our blog. Please bear with us as it gets up and running!

Do you have a VD story?

Tomme — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 02:51:42 +0000

No No No.. we aren’t really concerned about that one scary call you got from the clinic. This is VALENTINES DAY!! The best Valentine Day Story wins a free SESSION of your choice (value 400.00) Just for being you, in a creative, cuter, wittier way in written form. Did he make you heart shaped pancakes for breakfast? Did she wait on you hand and foot all day long? What did someone do special for you for Valentines day? It doesn’t have to be couples related. Get creative. For all the free world to vote on and will decide if you are indeed, WORTHY of a *FREE* photo session! WE know you are.. but you gotta prove it.

There are some rules! *YAWN* They aren’t crazy rules tho. These are easy rules to ensure that everyone gets the best possible shot at a win. There are no rules for the stories you submit, but for the sake of internet space please keep it concise instead of a timeless classic novel. Your stories will be posted so make sure you edit correctly. Spelling and grammar should be legible and correct. Your stories will be posted as-is.

But let’s look at the ways you become eligible to WIN!!

Submit all stories to: gallery.tommehilton@gmail.com. Entry deadline is February 28, 2010 at midnight.

All entries will be posted and voted on by your friends/family and anyone exposed to this contest. Start spreading your VD germs!

Good luck, writers! xo

{M & M} not the candy.

Tomme — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 15:44:08 +0000

I met Morgan at her brother Brice’s wedding May of 2007.
They are all quite a good looking family.

Morgan is an artist in Charlotte. She also works at this super chic store there. We did some really cool bridal shots in the store. She also has a pretty entertaining blog. The blog entries are pretty funny. I think you will enjoy following her. And someone needs to talk her into getting some of her artwork on here! I keep looking for paintings/images and find myself continuously searching. Check her out: http://morganelvington.wordpress.com

Morgan and Michael were one of the top contender couples on my facebook ‘Best Engagement Photo’ Contest. AND it was a SUPER close race. They kept me on the edge of my seat the entire race.

The wedding was like a homecoming for me. Seeing so many familiar faces and open, warm smiles. It’s so much more fun when you are doing the electric slide amongst friends instead of strangers. (You don’t get as many.. ‘Why is your photographer so weird’ looks when they already KNOW you are). And just so you know, I can do a mean ‘Thriller’ too.

Let’s just say, M&M’s wedding was a blast!!

Until next time. xo

THE VUE from here.

Tomme — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 01:26:56 +0000

As you figured, the wedding of Robyn and Matt – all the way from New Jersey got married at The Vue here in Charleston. Now, normally the weather here is somewhat mild in January…well, in comparison to NJ this time of the year. I have to laugh b/c it was one of THE coldest days (only to soon be figured out as one of the coldest Charleston stretches in decades). So Robyn had on her beautiful strapless and then we dodged being outside as much as possible. Being indoors the entire time can be somewhat limiting but I think we did great despite.

This is Robyn’s sister helping her get ready. I love the expression on Marissa’s face. So proud of her sister!

Let’s not forget Matt. He looked pretty dapper as well. My guess is he was looking out that window grateful he was indoors instead of in the blistery cold.

We did get some alone time together before the ceremony. I love this shot.

The chandellier over this cake just gives it this really romantic, feminine touch. Those little details make such an impact. See.

We had our ceremony and the reception at the Vue so there wasn’t much outdoor time necessary. The decor inside was actually beautiful. They decorated the windows with beading that really did find glamour that danced in the lights.

Again, as I go through some of these. I realize I have so many good images to choose from and this makes it hard for me to be selective in choosing images and not be over zealous and posting chronically instead of selectively.

How awesome was this light. I literally only got this because it was FROM the limo to the Vue. So thankfully I was able to utilize that little bit of outdoor time to catch the sun coming down. This looks like the hollywood strip behind her.

The KISS!

Look at that skyline back there. I loved that!

And I love this one. This is prob one of my favorite send off pics. I placed lighting behind them because it was really dark and I wanted to emphasize the faces of the senders. I think it just adds a special element I prob couldn’t have gotten otherwise.

And since this obviously could be full of pics and post, I will end here.

Congrats Robyn and Matt, who went to Thailand for their honeymoon.

Enjoy your new life as Mister and Mrs.

Houston… We have a BABY!

Tomme — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 22:08:04 +0000

Congratulations to Matt and Erica!

Charles Houston made his debut into the world last Monday, January 18th!

Here is Erica’s blog. I’m sure she will keep us updated on his progress!

Had to include a before and after, well… because that’s just how I ROLL!

Much love and Peaceful Cat Naps, Erica! xo

FAQ’s

Tomme — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 21:45:42 +0000

What describes my style of photography?

I would describe my work as a fusion of candid (PJ – Photojournalistic style) as well as employing my education in lighting, posing and art to choreograph the most optimal shots possible. This is where hiring the professional becomes significant. Having experience and education means these are the foremost thoughts of a true professional and completes a skilled vision.

My work is Romantic, Intimate, Fun, Quirky and all those things that couples have used to describe their relationship.

Where are the majority of your weddings shot?

Charleston is the number 2 wedding destination capital in the United States. I do several weddings here locally but I’ve also been hired to go to Maine, Atlanta, Maryland, Barbados and several other out of state venues. What intrigues me most about wedding photography is every single venue is different. Even if you’ve shot at this venue on several occasions each wedding has been decorated solely for that couple and can seem like a completely new, fresh location. This is one of the reasons Wedding Photography appeals to me. It’s new each and every time.

There are so many photographers. What sets you apart?

I’m educated in photography but an expert in people. Relationships are fundamental to my work and I place great emphasis on what your relationship is like. Getting to know you as a couple and people individually is my niche . I want to know if you are a fun, quirky couple… or if you are serious and love the intimate magazine shots. I love photography not only because I love what I do but because I make friends out of my clients and they become my extended family. That is beyond gratifying to me.

Do you work alone?

No. I generally have several interns/assistants and will more than likely always have at least ONE other shooter at your wedding. There may be several more but at least one extra shooter will be at your wedding.

I can’t afford you!

Never say never. I’ve made accommodations in the past for couples and I acknowledge their specific situations. I also run specials and annually a FREE WEDDING CONTEST for lucky couples. There are also military and off day discounts to consider. However, something to consider when hiring a photographer is it should be one of the principal vendors in your budget. Everything else you utilize for your wedding will be a distant memory but the photos last GENERATIONS!! Some of my favorite family photos are of my great grand parents and their wedding photos. This is how I know them, through those photos. They have long passed but the couple I know in those photos are forever my memory of them. Scrimping on wedding photography has been the biggest regrets of many brides. Consider great Wedding Photos an Investment to your family heirlooms.

Where do you prefer to take the portraits?

I try to arrive to your venue early if possible to determine possible locations to get the most distinguished location. Sometimes it’s on the grounds and other times we drive a few minutes to a location that is unique and will add diversity. I certainly prefer not to take photos at the church altar. PERIOD. The lighting is usually awful and dark while the altars have all sorts of distractions. Taking the family outdoors for a couple fun family photos is quick and painless and looks much better in the long run. Let the church remain a sacred location for your vows and take your images at another location. Trust me.

What’s included in your packages?

I love getting to know you, remember that from earlier? So, engagement sessions are so fun for me. I get some one-on-one time with you and you get to play model for the day. Engagement sessions are included in every package. All post processing is included. A second shooter. Online gallery for all friends and family to view images without you having to be the mediator to direct everyone to the images.

I can only afford your 4 hour package. Won’t we miss several opportunities?

Not necessarily. When I’m hired for the minimal package my time is just more condensed. I generally get as many images as full day coverage but what happens is you or your planner realizes my time is limited therefore scheduling events you want photographed within this timeline. Honestly, it just takes making a list of what you consider important photos and maximizing your time with me. You won’t miss as much as you’d think.

How do you feel about guests taking photos?

I don’t have a problem with them taking images that day as long as they are courteous and watch their flash. I can’t be responsible for images over exposed due to flashes from other cameras. That’s always something to consider but during my 6 years in the business. Knock on wood. I’ve never had a problem.

What do you recommend to wear for Engagement Sessions?

I’m a big fan of similar color schemes. The best choices are ones that will contrast your hair. Maybe him wear a solid grey shirt and you wear a patterned grey shirt with splash of another color (Example:http://www.flickr.com/photos/tommehilton/3077920095/ ). I never recommend white. You can choose another outfit for 2 looks if you’d like some diversity. Some couples decide on a themed engagement for phase 2 ( second outfit change ). Are you football fans? Wear a jersey. Are you a fan of the 20’s era? Try a Flapper dress for you and a fedora and trench coat for him. I feel that the best engagement sessions are the ones where you incorporate yourselves. Bring props that incorporate your personalities. Remember you are a model that day. Play. Have fun!

How soon before the wedding should we do our Engagement Session?

In order for all products to back for the wedding I recommend about 2 months prior to wedding.

Do you recommend a bridal session?

Hands down! YES!! The bridal session is a run through of your day. You should get hair and make up done as you planned for the wedding. Wear the shoes you planned. Have the florist do a bouquet for you. Have the spanks on! Wear the panties you planned on wearing. This will give you the opportunity to determine if you dress fits. If your shoes are too tight and you won’t be able to stand in them for more than ten minutes. You may have thought you liked your hair in that certain style but when you saw it in photos, you actually didn’t, or it just didn’t hold up under the humidity. This will also spare you time during the wedding day not to have to concentrate on bridal photos and maximize time for you and him. I mean, this is the reason for the wedding right? The bride/groom photos!

Most girls have used the bridal session as a way to gauge the day and many have thanked me in the long run for knowing these things in advance.

When should we do the bridal session?

After the last fitting/alterations are completed.

What about my dress getting dirty?

It will get a little dirty. I take measures to try to keep it clean but you make plans to have it cleaned after the session. The images are definitely worth a little dirt. And, if you’ve seen my work. I’m not very traditional so there will be bending and moving and laying. Please bring someone with you that can help with the dress and the sheet placements.

How many photographs will we receive?

You can expect 50-100 images per hour at your wedding.

Approx 100 bridal and engagement images.

I really want my wedding to be the event everyone talks about! Any suggestions?

PHOTOBOOTH. PHOTOBOOTH. PHOTOBOOTH.

There is no age limit on the photobooth. I’ve had babies and I’ve had 90 yrs olds. The photobooth ensures people aren’t running FROM my camera at the reception but running TO IT! I bring props and most brides usually have a table set up of props they’ve incorporated as well. They are fun and by far the funniest photos of your wedding! If you want the photobooth, ensure that your venue permits this as well as has a dedicated area complete with electrical outlets that is somewhat out of heavy traffic flow. (This is one w/o props but fun, nonetheless). These produce those memories you are sure to never forget!

How long does it take to get our photos back?

Generally 2 to 3 weeks for Engagements and Bridals.

And 4 to 6 weeks for Weddings.

Why are products so expensive?

Believe me, there are plenty of less-expensive products. They are popping up everywhere. I’ve gone through several companies before I settled on the products I use. I’m insanely particular about the products I chose to use. Nothing less than perfection! I refuse to use less than professional grade products which in turn, can be a little more costly. These products will certainly stand the test of time. The binding is high quality on the albums, the pages are thick and matte to prevent fingerprint oils from breaking down. The cover is genuine Leather in a cloth dust case as well as a presentation box. The canvases are treated in advance and carefully constructed to be ready to hang. They are once again, an investment of loving and preserving your photographs. No one knows the life expectancy of digital imagery. How long a disk will retain wear and tear deterioration. Your products are what last forever. Don’t neglect purchasing professional products.

I want to surprise him on our wedding day with a special gift. Any ideas?

Ummm, YEAH! He will love seeing the boudoirs you did and that album made JUST FOR HIM! He didn’t know you had this sexy side!! You were wearing his favorite football jersey! You were wearing his favorite white shirt. You were wearing nothing!! Believe me. This will be the best groom gift he could possibly receive.

What vendors do you recommend?

I will be happy to send you to some of the best of the best in the wedding industry. Just drop me a line!

Dang it! You aren’t available on our date!

Is your date set in stone? Is there any possibility to maneuver dates and venues? If absolutely impossible, drop me a line and I’ll send you names of some really great photographers whom I trust.

What equipment do you use?

I have recently sold my Canon gear and I’m now a Nikon shooter. We use the best equipment by today’s industry standards.

For any other additional questions or if you want to just say hey. Email me at: gallery.tommehilton@gmail.com

R. and M.

Tomme — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 00:51:34 +0000

Meet ROBYN & MATT:

Matt had his bachelor party the night before our engagement shoot.. for you future couples…. this is not the best time to decide to walk around Charleston in the elements if you aren’t quite feeling up to par. But he cheesed it up for me quite well… and nearly got attacked by a pigeon but was all worth the while.

OH, the things you do for love!

Now, take a look at this couple-in-love before they TIED THE KNOT!

{Guest Blog} by Heather & Steve

Tomme — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 00:45:51 +0000

The holiday’s are over and I am settling back into my ‘normal’ life… back in my ways… back to routines… back to… wait… who am I kidding! I dont have a normal life! OR a routine! Everyday is different and crazy!!

BUT, one thing I do have is ANOTHER {GUEST BLOG}! Remember Heather & Steve? Read their post about the day of their wedding and the relationship we developed!

…..

Our wedding was October 3, 2009 at Magnolia Plantation for the ceremony and High Cotton for the reception dinner.

Tomme Hilton was our photographer and she was no less than amazing in every way. We had never met prior to the actual wedding, because we live in Raleigh, NC and she is based out of the Charleston area. Our wedding planner recommended her to us after knowing the style we were looking for. We wanted romantic, sweet, fun, different, and also some traditional in the mix. Tomme Hilton is all of the above and more.

We kept in touch threw out the whole time before the wedding and felt very comfortable after seeing her beautiful work on her websites and facebook page. Tomme was very professional and was great about getting back to us with any questions or concerns we had along the way. I had commented on various photos on her facebook page that we really liked and she made a note of all of them to apply to our day. We were very impressed on the day of our wedding, because it was a scorcher that day. It was so hot and sticky, but she took control of the situation getting in all the various shots that we wanted plus so many more amazing ones. Tomme is a bright, bubbly, funny, artistic photographer with so many ideas and visions. We felt so comfortable with her the whole day. My husband does not like taking pictures and so we do not get that many together that he actually likes, but we had so many to choose from.

Tomme had various photos back to us to get a sneak peek just a few days after the wedding. It was such a surprise and we were so happy. The actual photo disk was back to us way faster than we expected and we were so happy to be able to share with our family during Christmas. We are so glad to know Tomme as a person and not just the photographer. She is just a great person to know and work with and we feel so blessed that we had her as our photographer for our big day. We will for sure be using her for maternity photos down the line and anything else that way come up.

Heather and Steve Grissom
Raleigh, NC

…..

Thanks Heather and Steve! I had a great experience shooting your wedding and a great time getting to know you two as a couple! Congratulations on your marriage and best of luck in the future! I look forward to working with you again in the future!