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About AK

AK is short for Amber Knowles. I'm a photographer based in New York
City. I'm keeping this section short because as my blog grows I will
reveal more about myself than I can sum up here. This blog is where I
get honest and hope to grow as an artist and entrepreneur. Please send
me your genuine comments and feedback.

"Why weddings?"  Because I'm a romantic. Because I tear during the father-daughter dance. Because shooting happy people makes me happy.

~AK


Starring… Pierre Downing

Some of you may remember Pierre from the first season of BET’s Harlem Heights. In case you don’t, let me jog your memory. He was the tall, handsome young man working in community development. These days you can find him pursing his love of acting and modeling. And in general, leaving a lasting impression with his infectious smile.

~AK

Stylist: Marian Ingram | Art Direction: Betty Kim

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Nick Nack - Great pictures Amber ! I love how you captured the essence of a working man in NYC. ;o) I also love the train shots as well.

Starring… Erin L.

She’s fiery, she’s perceptive, she’s compassionate. And in the 90’s, she was once a fugitive in my backyard. We were both grounded for that one.

It’s true, you really do look back at things in life and laugh! Haaaa! Although, there was nothing funny about our punishments. Which gets me thinking… what shenanigans will I have to look out for from my future young ones.

And again, I am reminded here to let go and laugh more.

~AK

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Snow Day!

Today is a snow day! How cool is that? In LA, we might have gotten an El Nino day. But never a snow day. Living on the east really makes me appreciate what each season has to offer. I have to admit when my client in VA mentioned the snow they got last week, I was a wee bit jealous. Okay honestly, more than a wee bit. I LOVE SNOW. Love it! It makes me feel like I am seeing the world through a new set of eyes, like I am a child all over again learning what this world is about.

Miles and I just came in from a romp in the park. I am sitting here working, studying, watching the snow fall and eating my first PB&J sandwich in the last decade. Wondering, since when did these become so tasty?! Could it be the honey wheat bread and green tea addition?

And look what we found in Marcus Garvey Park, a snowman! What?! How cool are the kids in Harlem USA for this?!

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2009, An Exceptional Year

With each day that we get closer to 2010, I can’t help but remember that this time one year ago, I could have never imagined all that 2009 would become. All my struggles and accomplishments, as cliche as that may sound. But seriously, I am thankful for the encouragement of my family and my friends. I am thankful for all the tough lessons that have helped me to grow and tackle life in a way that I never did before. And I am thankful for God’s love.

To celebrate 2009, I have included some of my favorite images from weddings this year.

May the good things in life be yours in abundance. Happy New Year!

~AK

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Dancing & Giving

Yesterday’s post reminded me of the Youtube wedding dance video that went viral this summer. And I wanted to watch it again, because it makes me smile.  When I Googled for it, I found this website www.jkweddingdance.com. I am so happy to see that Jill & Kevin, the couple who married, decided to turn all the unexpected attention they got for the video toward a cause. They chose to support the Sheila Wellstone Institute, which focuses on ending violence against women, for reasons related to the song’s performer.

Just in case you’ve been living under a rock, or even if you’re like me and just want to smile, here is the video. (If you do not see it below, hit Refresh till you do.) While I watched the video, all I kept thinking was… “I really hope they prepped the photographer beforehand to be ready.”

~AK

Abbie & Jamal, a Wedding in Brooklyn

Abbie & Jamal were married at the Plymouth Church of the Pilgrims in Brooklyn Heights with a reception that followed at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens. She wore an elegant, one-shouldered Vera Wang gown with flower details that was reminiscent of Michelle Obama’s inauguration gown.

I love to see how each couple makes their wedding their own. For Abbie and Jamal, it was their first dance. Jamal, a dancer, choreographed it. It definitely set the whole tone for the wedding. Their guests love to dance and worked it all night. Thanks to Jen Davis for letting me work with her on this wedding.

~AK

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TheBlogsmaid - Oh! How lovely! I've knew Jamal in college and am so excited to see that he and Abbie had such a gorgeous wedding! Congratulations and great work.

Lindsay & Brice, Engagement in the Military

Love finds you when you least expect it. Lindsay & Brice met in Pismo Beach, CA. Brice, originally from Missouri, was working there at the time and Lindsay happened to be visiting.  She lived in Phoenix, AZ. After not being satisfied with long distance, he moved to be with her. And just a couple months ago, they were engaged.

Lindsay contacted me because at the last minute Brice was given an unexpected 4 day pass, which they planned to spend together in NYC. Brice is in the Military Police in the United States Army. A couple weeks ago, he deployed to Iraq, beginning a one year tour of duty.

I am honored that they chose me to capture their love at this time in their relationship. My gratitude is enormous for the men and women whose hearts lead them to serve. Thank you Brice for your courage and passion, and to your family for their strength.

Our session started in the heart of NYC, Times Square, and we walked to Central Park. Although, by the time we reached the park, it started to rain. It was a light rain but consistent, so we still got wet, and decided to end at the Columbus Circle Mall. Lindsay trooped it out and threw her hair into a ponytail. I love a girl who rolls with the punches.

~AK

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Gloria Samuelson - I am proud mother to the groom and just as proud to know lindsay. I too am proud of his committment to the time in Iraq even tho my heart is sadden that he is gone for a while.See you later son.Love momma

Brice Box - WOW !! That's the first word that comes to mind when I look at these photo's. Thank you soooo much Amber for making this day perfect !! I couldn't be happier with the way everything turned out.All is well here in Iraq and will be seeing you again soon at our wedding !!! LOVE YOU LINDSAY MARIE !!!

Karmin Box - What a beautiful site. I am so glad to just know Brice let alone being his sister in law. Our family has been through a lot through the years and I am so happy for Brice to have found his bride. Lindsay is a blessing and I am so pround to be able to welcome her to our family. I love them both and thank Brice everyday for fighting for our country! Miss Lyla Mae is lucky to have her Uncle Brice and Aunt Lindsay.