Our First Mother’s Day - SC Botanical Garden in Clemson

This photo was taken right where we got married!

As the sun kissed the horizon on a chill Sunday morning, I couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. This was Alicia's first Mother's Day, and it was going to be a day filled with love, appreciation, and those laid-back moments we cherish as a family.

From our sentimental stroll at the SC Botanical Garden to a delicious lunch at Alicia's parents' house, every step of the day was all about soaking up those delicious spring feels and making memories.

(A photo session with a baby isn’t complete until you’ve had a little hair pulling.)

Our day kicked off with a trip to the SC Botanical Garden, a total sanctuary of natural beauty. It was the perfect spot to start our Mother's Day celebration, surrounded by the love that Alicia and I had scattered all over the gardens. Camera in hand, we strolled through the gardens, capturing epic photos of the Alicia and Luca along the way. Luca stayed stoked the whole time! If you have a little one, then you know how rare this can be!

After our botanical adventure, we cruised over to Alicia's parents' house, where we decided to fire up the grill and create a spread that would blow our Mommas taste buds away. The aroma of sizzling chicken and grilled pineapple permeated the air, while laughter and good times filled the back deck as we reminisced about our journey as new parents.

As lunch came to a close, it was time for the Mother’s Day surprises! I handed my wife the envelope with cards from Luca and myself. I even took Luca’s little hand and “wrote” one to Alicia from our 6 month old. But the ultimate surprise was about to drop. Are you ready?

As Alicia unwrapped the gift, a look of awe washed over her face. It was a custom piece of art that captured our tight-knit crew of three. On the back, there were tiny imprints of Luca's hands and feet, a symbol of his presence in our lives and at this age and the love he brought us. The front of the artwork rocked the phrase, "Mom, you are the piece that holds us all together," with three puzzle pieces completing the picture.

In the center puzzle piece, "Mom" shone bright on the walnut, representing Alicia's crucial role in our tribe. The outer pieces had "Luca" and "Dad", symbolizing the unbreakable connection we all shared. It was a heartfelt tribute to remind Alicia of the love, support, and unity that flows through our home.

It was a day to celebrate not only Alicia but also the indescribable bond we shared as a family, our little Partyof3. As Luca and I gazed at her, feeling admiration, we knew she was the heart and soul of our tribe—the piece that held us all together. What a day!

Written by Nicholas

A Sweet and Fun-Filled Third Birthday Party

Last Saturday, we had the pleasure of attending Blake and Keith’s daughter's third birthday party, and what a delightful celebration it was! From delicious cake to giant bubbles and playground fun, it was an afternoon filled with laughter and joy. As photographers, we couldn't resist capturing the moments that truly make life so joyful.

We snapped some photos of birthday girl blowing out her cake, including the proud smile on her face as her family and friends cheered her on. As the kids enjoyed opening gifts, we took some candid shots of them giggling with each other.

One of the highlights of the party was definitely the giant bubble station, where kids (and adults!) could create bubbles of all sizes with wands and solution. We captured some fun shots of the colorful bubbles floating in the air and the kids' expressions of wonder and amazement as they chased after them.

Of course, no birthday party is complete without some playground time, and the kids had a blast climbing and sliding to their hearts' content. We loved capturing the energy and excitement on their faces as they played together and explored the playground.

As photographers, we're always inspired by the way that children see the world. Everything is new and exciting, and every moment is an opportunity for fun and discovery. It was a joy to be able to capture that spirit in our photos and share it with our friend and her family.

Overall, it was a wonderful afternoon filled with sweet treats, fun activities, and plenty of laughter. We feel grateful to have been a part of it and to have captured these special moments for our friend and her family. If you're looking for a photographer in Clemson, South Carolina or the surrounding areas to capture the magic of your own special occasions, please don't hesitate to get in touch with Rios Tegen Photography.

Senior Portrait Outfit Ideas

Hey there, graduating seniors in Clemson, South Carolina! If you're getting ready to take your senior portraits and you're wondering what to wear, you've come to the right place. As photographers at Rios Tegen Photography, we've seen it all (or so it feels like it!), so we’re here to give you some ideas and inspiration for your outfit that will make you look your best in your senior portraits.

When it comes to choosing an outfit for your senior portraits, it's important to consider colors that look great on camera. Solid colors tend to work better than patterns and stripes. Neutral colors like black, white, and gray are always a safe bet, but don't be afraid to add a pop of color to your outfit too! Jewel tones like emerald green and deep purple can look great in your portraits. You can choose to bring your cap and gown if you’d like but it’s completely up to you!

For guys, a simple button-down shirt in a solid color looks great paired with jeans or khaki pants. You can add a blazer to dress it up a bit. If you want to add a pop of color, try a bold tie or a fun pair of socks.

For girls, a flowy dress or a skirt and blouse combo always looks great. Again, stick to solid colors, but don't be afraid to play with different textures and fabrics. A denim jacket or a leather jacket can add some edge to your look, or you can dress it up with some heels or statement jewelry.

Here are some specific outfit ideas that will look great in your senior portraits:

For guys:

• Dark jeans, a gray button-down shirt, and brown dress shoes

• Khaki pants, a navy blazer, and a light blue button-down shirt

• Black pants, a white button-down shirt, and a bold patterned tie

For girls:

• A long flowy white dress with a denim jacket and sandals

• A midi-length black dress with a statement necklace and heels

• A high-waisted skirt in a bold color with a white blouse and strappy sandals

At Rios Tegen Photography, we want you to feel confident and comfortable in your outfit, so remember to choose something that makes you feel like yourself. And most importantly, have fun with it! Your senior portraits are a celebration of all your hard work over the past four years, so embrace your unique style and enjoy the experience.

If you're looking for a photographer to capture your senior portraits in Clemson, South Carolina, look no further than Rios Tegen Photography. We specialize in capturing timeless, beautiful portraits that you'll treasure for years to come. Contact us today to schedule your session!

Capturing Carter Janse's Clemson Graduation Senior Portraits during Golden Hour

We recently had the pleasure of photographing Carter Janse, a recent Clemson University graduate, for his senior portrait session. Let us tell you, this dude is the real deal! He was such a natural in front of the camera, and his mom and their adorable pup joined in on the fun. We couldn't have asked for a better session!

To make things even better, we scheduled the shoot during golden hour, which is basically photography gold. The lighting was just right, and it gave us the perfect opportunity to capture Carter in the best way. We roamed around Clemson's campus, using the gorgeous scenery and architecture as a backdrop for the photos. I mean, check out that gorgeous light!

We're still offering sessions for those who missed the chance to book before graduation. It doesn't matter if you're still in school or you've recently graduated, we believe every senior year deserves to be celebrated and documented. Our goal is to create images that you'll cherish for years to come, images that capture your unique style and personality.

So if you're interested in scheduling a senior portrait session, now is the perfect time! The summer months provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor shoots, and we're happy to help you find the perfect location and time of day for your session.

Don't miss out on the chance to capture your senior year memories with Rios Tegen Photography. Let's make some magic together!

Clemson Photographers - Should I Hire a Professional Photographer this Spring?

Spring is here! And you know what that means - it's time to get some gorgeous photos taken! As Clemson-based photographers, we know how beautiful this season can be in South Carolina. So why settle for phone selfies when you can have stunning, professional photos to cherish forever?

Here are five reasons why you should book a photo shoot with Rios Tegen Photography this spring:

1. Capture the essence of Clemson in springtime: From the blooming azaleas to the lush greenery, there's no shortage of picturesque spots in Clemson to capture your springtime memories. Need help finding the perfect location? We’ve got you.

2. Spend quality time with your family: Spring is the perfect time to gather your loved ones for a photo shoot and have some fun together. Let us capture the candid moments that will make you smile for years to come.

3. Get a personalized experience: Our photography style is all about capturing your unique personality. We work with you to make sure your photo shoot is tailored to your preferences, so you get photos that you'll love.

4. Boost your confidence: We all feel a little better about ourselves when we have a set of gorgeous photos. Whether you're updating your social media profiles or looking for professional headshots, feel your best in front of the camera this spring.

5. Create lasting memories: Photos are not just images - they're memories that you'll treasure forever. As professional photographers, we can help you create a legacy that you can pass down to future generations.

Don't settle for just selfies or phone photos this spring. Book a photo shoot with Rios Tegen Photography and let's capture the beauty of the upstate in all its springtime glory. Check out some of our work in our portfolio, and contact us to book your session today!

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Introducing Rios Tegen Photography: Your Elopement and Intimate Wedding Photographers in Clemson, SC

Hi there, friend! We are Alicia and Nicholas, the coolest husband and wife photography duo in town, and we happen to be the faces behind Rios Tegen Photography. Our photography style is all about natural light and capturing those candid, magical moments that make your love story unique and special.

We are all about elopements and intimate weddings, and we know how to make them truly epic. You can count on us to capture those breathtaking views and those intimate, heartfelt moments that only happen when it's just the two of you or surrounded by your closest friends and family. Trust us, we've got the skills and experience to make it happen.

Oh, and did we mention we are super affordable? We know how expensive weddings can be, and we want to make sure you can have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank. So, whether you're planning on eloping to a mountain top or having a small, intimate gathering at your favorite coffee shop, we've got you covered. Is it last minute? Not a problem.

We got married ourselves under a tree in Clemson, South Carolina, so we know firsthand the power of love and nature. Plus, we've been in the wedding photography business for over 15 years, so we've seen it all (or at least most of it). We are experts in capturing those unique and unforgettable moments that make your love story unique.

So, what do you say? If you're looking for a photographer that is fun, relaxed, and knows how to capture the best version of you and your partner, then reach out to us. We promise to make your wedding photography experience unforgettable and we guarantee you'll have a blast.

Thanks for reading, friend! We can't wait to hear from you and start planning your epic elopement or intimate wedding.

Clemson Elopement Photographers, Clemson Elopement Photography, Intimate Wedding Photographers Clemson SC, Greenville Elopement Photographers

Kelsey Grace’s Bridal Shower

As I sit down to write this blog post, I am filled with excitement and joy for my sister in law, Kelsey Grace, who is getting married in just a few short weeks. I have only known Kelsey for a short amount of time, but she has quickly become a very important person to me. Now, I have two sisters and she is my baby boy’s auntie!

And as we prepare to celebrate her upcoming wedding to Jake in beautiful St. Augustine, Florida, my husband and I cannot help but feel all of the happiness for the two of them. One of the things I am most looking forward to is photographing Kelsey and Jake's wedding on the beach (their favorite place!) I know that the location will be stunning, but I also know that Kelsey herself will be absolutely breathtaking. She has a natural beauty and radiance that shines through, and I have no doubt that she will be a stunning bride. But more than that, I know that Kelsey and Jake's love for each other is genuine and deep, and that their wedding day will be a beautiful reflection of that.

Cannot wait to capture all of the happy tears and dance moves!

Thinking back on Kelsey's bridal shower, there are many fond memories. I think the photos say it all. Her family and friends know how to throw a beautiful event! The dessert bar, mimosa bar, and flower bouquet making station were all such thoughtful and unique touches that made the day feel truly special. And it was such a joy to meet so many of Kelsey's close family and friends, as well as many of her lovely bridesmaids.

Congratulations, Kelsey and Jake!

We can't wait to see all the amazing things that your future holds and to celebrate you two so, so soon!

See you in Florida lovelies!

Written By Alicia Tegen

Kathleen Tegen’s 100th Birthday Celebration

Last Saturday, family and friends gathered to celebrate Kathleen Tegen's 100th Birthday! The event was a great success and we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who came to celebrate this wonderful occasion, especially the out of town guests who made the effort to travel to be there with us. We would also like to thank our family members who poured their time and heart into putting this event together. You did a wonderful job!

Kathleen and two of her four children in the 1950’s

The celebration was filled with joy and laughter as everyone came together to honor Kathleen's life and legacy. There were many heartfelt conversations, and memories shared at the Bryant Lodge on Southern Wesleyan’s campus.

It was truly a momentous occasion, and we are grateful to have been a part of it. We hope that everyone who attended had a wonderful time and will cherish the memories for years to come.

For those who were unable to attend, we have created a gallery of photos from the event, which can be accessed through the link below. We hope that you will enjoy the photos and feel as though you were there to celebrate with us. You are able to download the images of your choice from this link. If you have any questions please feel free to email Alicia at contact@riostegenphoto.com.

Link to all photos from Kathleen's Birthday Party

Again, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended Kathleen Tegen's 100th Birthday celebration. It was a truly special event that we will always remember.

Valentine’s Day - Roses, Coffee & Pink Blossoms

This year, my family celebrated our first Valentine's Day in Clemson, South Carolina, and we proved that Valentine's Day doesn't need to be extravagant to be special. We exchanged small but thoughtful gifts such as roses and chocolate, and enjoyed a lovely picnic under the sunshine at the South Carolina Botanical Gardens. My husband organized the picnic, and although we didn't take any pictures with our Canon, it was a beautiful day! My sweet mom watched our son while we were out, and it was the perfect way to spend the holiday.

Pink Blossoms in Patrick Square

Creative and Low-Cost Date Ideas for New Parents

Creative and Low-Cost Date Ideas for New Parents

Life is hectic! As first time parents, my husband and I have to be mindful to think of creative and low-cost date ideas that can include our tiny one. Here are a few ideas for our area that can be translated to wherever you live:

1. Have a picnic in the park - pack a blanket, the stroller, sandwiches, fruit, and drinks, and enjoy the beautiful weather and each other's company. This one is a personal fav! We did this at the South Carolina Botanical Gardens in January of all months and guess what, it was perfect! It happened to be a beautiful day in the upper 50’s with sunshine. We had our first trip to the gardens since our son was born and yes, he came along and loved the fresh air.

2. Take a walk or hike in nature - find a nearby trail or park and spend the day exploring and admiring the scenery. The upstate of South Carolina is full of trails and parks. Just a few to mention are Paris Mountain State Park in Greenville, The Swamp Rabbit Trail, and the Issaqueena Lake Trail. One of the main reasons I moved back to this area is because of the nature in this area. Strap that baby on and go! We use this Infantino Carrier from Amazon.

3. Have a game night - play board games, card games, or video games together for a fun and relaxed evening. As an adult, I find that game-nights around the living room seem more fun now than ever. If I feel silly playing them, even better!

4. Cook dinner together - pick a recipe, buy the ingredients, and enjoy cooking and eating a meal together. We feel like we have had to grow additional arms and legs after having our son. This includes cooking dinner but we do it! (And it saves us money!) We bring him in the kitchen with us and pray he will chill for the duration of the cook time. If he needs feeding, we can do that while being together in the kitchen.

5. Visit a farmers market or street fair - explore the sights, sounds, and tastes of your local community. Babies are little sponges, you know that! They are memorized by all the new things. A short trip out to a farmers market or street fair is a great way for us to get out, support the community, and introduce our little guy to new experiences.

6. Have a movie night at home - stream one, pop some popcorn, and snuggle up together. So, this one we do a lot. It goes without saying that new parents are stuck inside a lot. To make it more fun, we turned our living room into a movie room. My husband has set up fun LED lights all around the house so we can dim them and change colors whenever we want. Blanket forts and floor beds are always a win with movie night. Plus is that little guy sleeps through most of it.

7. Have a photography walk - bring your camera or smartphone, and capture memories and moments together. This is an obvious favorite for us! We love to connect over taking photos of our new little one to document how he is changing. And boy does he change quickly every week!

8. Try a new hobby together - whether it's painting, pottery, or woodworking, trying something new can be a fun and unique bonding experience. My husband has brought painting and refinishing furniture into my life. Watching him do this has been that bonding experience I’m talking about. Not only do we bond but we learn together and that is what the creative process is all about!

Free Things To Do in Clemson, SC

Free Things To Do in Clemson, SC

Clemson, South Carolina offers plenty of free activities for those who are looking for something to do without spending money. Here are a few options:

1. Visit Clemson University campus: Take a walk around the beautiful and historic Clemson University campus, which features stunning architecture and a lush, natural environment. We are available to take photos of you and your family on the Clemson University Campus!

2. Walk the Botanical Garden: The South Carolina Botanical Garden is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the beauty of nature. It is free-of-charge and open year round from sunrise to sunset.

3. Explore the Clemson Farmers Market: Enjoy the fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts available at the Clemson Farmers Market located in the beautiful community of Patrick Square off of Issaqueena Trail. The Clemson Farmers Market is open to the public on Thursdays from 4:00-7:00pm May thru September. Keep an eye out for specialty market events held on the First Thursday of each of these months as well as the First Thursday of October, November, and December. These markets include music and special sponsors. We love supporting local and purchasing healthy food options at the Clemson Farmers Market.

4. Enjoy Lake Hartwell: Go for a swim, take a boat ride, or just enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Hartwell, one of the largest and most popular lakes in South Carolina.

5. Hike at Issaqueena Falls: Hike the trails and enjoy the stunning scenery at Issaqueena Falls, a beautiful waterfall located near Clemson.

6. Take a walk through the Clemson Experimental Forest: Take a walk through the Clemson Experimental Forest, a protected area of forested land that is used for research and education. Insider tip: bring your pup! It’s a great walk for pet-owners and their furry companions.

7. Visit Patrick Square: Clemson’s charming little city within a city. Patrick Square is located just a couple minutes away from Clemson University campus. You can walk around for free and enjoy the preserve area that connects to Nettles Park (Clemson’s largest park). While in Patrick Square you’ll get to see tree-lined streets with sidewalks, historically accurate architecture, and cozy front porches. For just a few dollars stop in to Stumphouse Creamery. Stumphouse Creamery is Patrick Square’s new ice cream shop! Located inside the Inn at Patrick Square. Stumphouse Creamery offers Mayfield’s Icecream and is open Monday - Thursday from 1-8pm, Friday - Saturday from 1-9pm, and Sunday from 1-5pm.

These are just a few of the many free things to do in and around Clemson, South Carolina. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure, historical sites, or family experiences, you're sure to find something to enjoy! Contact us today to join you on your adventure in Clemson.

All photos are copyright of Rios Tegen Photography 2023

Meghan - The Cliffs Family Portraits

Chilly weather doesn’t stop us from getting out there and taking gorgeous family portraits. Grab your mug of coffee or tea and let’s go!

Anna - Clemson University Senior Portraits

No matter the time of year, we are happy to photograph and share a senior portrait session. There are few things as special as the feeling of completing a chapter in education. This memorable moment is so worth capturing!

Congratulations to Anna for graduating from Clemson University!

We are now booking for 2023 senior portraits at the Clemson University campus. For more information on booking and availability please contact us.