Happy Birthday Austin!

Man, it's been tough getting around to the whole photography thing but every time I get the chance, I never regret it. As 2012 is coming to an end, I'm looking back a my blog and realized that compared to 2011, I have about half the number of posts in 2012 than I did in 2011. Is this a lack of photography opportunities or a lack of dedication on my part? I must confess that it's a little of both. As I'm going through my senior year, I'm finding it tough to find opportunities to really stretch my photography career. Between school work, SATs, ACTs, college applications, and work itself, it's been pretty tough to just pick up camera and do what I love.

This past Saturday, November 5, 2011, I was able to do exactly that. This past Saturday, about 30-40 of my friends and I put together a surprise birthday party for our good friend Austin. To be completely honest, I was never SUPER close with Austin, but he has always been one of those close acquaintances who, when we hung out, we always interacted as close friends. With that in mind, me photographing his birthday party was of no burden what so ever. I'm constantly amazed to see how much an individual can be loved by his friends and family. I was so encouraged to see the love and care put into this party from both his parents and his friends. I am so blessed to have been given the opportunity to serve and photograph the birthday celebration of a good friend of mine.

As I have in the past, I must give a shout out to...

• Mr. Spickard: I don't think I've ever seen a father more proud and loving towards his son. To see the desire in your heart to put together a surprise party for your son makes me kind of jealous honestly... haha. 
• Amanda: I am so proud of you. I have never been more proud and blessed to call you my friend. To see the love, effort, and stress that you went through to put together such an amazing birthday party for Austin reminds me of why I can call you one of my best friends. The party, decorations, presents, and everything else was P.E.R.F.E.C.T! I'm so proud of you and proud to call you my friend.

In case you guys are getting bored by now, here are the pictures. Enjoy!

Happy birthday Austin!

The decorations were phenomenal! 

While there were not many photographs to take, but it looked amazing.

And we wait for Austin to come....

And we wait some more....

And finally, at around 7.20PM, SURPRISE!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUSTIN!

After a night of food, fun, and lots of dancing, I set up a nice photobooth where people could grab a bunch of friends, some props, and take some pictures for Austin.

Overall, the night was an awesome time of fellowship and bonding. 

Happy birthday Austin!