tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48181750990423536542024-02-21T02:34:46.205-08:00Vaughan PhotographyUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-79831642020182302482011-01-04T12:07:00.000-08:002011-01-04T12:07:39.811-08:00Valentines Day!It's almost that special time of year! Well, one of those specials times of year anyhow - the time to celebrate the one that you love! I have had several timid inquires about Boudoir Sessions, and I thought a blog post was in order to clear up some of the questions, and of course to unveil the Valentine's Day Special! <br />
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Let's start out with boudoir. Boudoir Sessions have gotten a bad rap. They are thought of in almost the same category as pornography in some circles, which is an insult to a type of art that has been around for a very long time!! We're going to go over the basis of a typical Boudoir Session to get you on the right track. ;) <br />
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Boudoir is most often done for one's significant other. The photos are tasteful and classy. Some of the best boudoir images I have ever seen have had no nudity in them. It is about capturing the beauty of the women no matter what she is wearing. Many women choose to wear clothing that is special to the man in their life, or just favorite outfits of any type that make them feel gorgeous. Theses sessions can be done anywhere, even outdoors, but are normally done in the client's home where they are the most comfortable. The atmosphere surprisingly relaxed and comfortable, and they most often turn out to be a lot of fun.<br />
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While boudoir is the most popular Valentine's Session booked, there are also many other options! It's a great time to do a couple's session that is totally unique to who you are, or to get photos done of your children - along with some wallets instead of the mass Valentine Cards you buy in the store. And if your single on Valentines Day? No problem! I love best friend sessions!! It's a great time to document this fun, unattached time in your life! If you want some updated photo's of your significant other, then a session would be a GREAT gift. You can book a session at the reduced V-Day rate and give it as a gift - via a pretty Valentine themed Gift Certificate of course!<br />
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And now that we have all of THAT covered......let's see the special!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5010/5324858334_b1c6c555ca_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="502" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5010/5324858334_b1c6c555ca_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-16735409991892804312010-12-28T19:05:00.000-08:002010-12-28T19:05:44.544-08:00Snowy Family PhotosIf you've been following my blog, you know that I am officially on Christmas Vacation until January 3rd. Seeing as how I spend a lot of my time going a hundred miles an hour, I relish the time when I don't have anything pressing to do. So what does it take to pull me from vacation and time with my family? A photo session with family, that is no where close to being work. :)<br />
My cousin is serving is the army in North Carolina, and doesn't get to come home to visit very often. Seeing him is always a blessing, and taking photos of him and his family made it all the better. It takes some awesome people to venture out in the cold and snow, but the photos we got were worth it! <br />
I thoroughly loved this session, probably because I love the people in it so much! Enjoy!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5048/5301302524_5a1ef853fc_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5048/5301302524_5a1ef853fc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-22789825884348495892010-12-21T09:58:00.000-08:002010-12-21T09:58:47.813-08:00Christmas Vacation!Tis' the season!!!! I will be taking off until January 3rd to spend the holidays with my family. :) Keep an eye on the Facebook page as I will be updating it with fun photos, and probably weather photos of all this crazy weather we have been getting! For those that are expecting orders for Christmas, the lab (and my slightly obsessive UPS tracking habit) assures me that they are on their way, and I will be getting them out to you as soon as I receive them. <br />
I look forward to all kinds of (good!) changes with the new year, and to capturing more memories. I hope all of you have a wonderful holiday season!<br />
Merry Christmas!!!!<br />
~HollyUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-868123695259722272010-12-09T12:18:00.000-08:002010-12-09T12:18:21.728-08:00Just For Fun!As much as I love taking that "perfect" photo for clients, I think I sometimes get so caught up in it that I forget how much fun my camera can be. When we put up our tree a couple of weeks ago I got a quick reminder! I was using slow shutters to make the lights on the tree sparkle in the photographs, and was reminded of a fun exercise that I had heard about but not gotten around to trying. Here is the result of this exercise + our Christmas Tree!<br />
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If you look close at this one you can see hearts and music notes. :)<br />
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And you can obviously see the cross in this one.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4108/5198899814_fbc1cd6ff9_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4108/5198899814_fbc1cd6ff9_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>I would love to see some of your shots like this! Link us in the comments!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-91256793367855189662010-12-08T11:19:00.000-08:002010-12-08T11:19:23.923-08:00I've Been BusyThe holiday season is upon us! I have been busy with card designing, processing, and tons of personal stuff. It seems that when I get super busy, this poor blog is the one that gets neglected. So here I am, trying to make it up again. FYI - one of my business goals for the new year is to keep up with my blog better. Since this is only December, then that means I don't have to start pushing myself on that JUST yet..right? Nonetheless, I'm going to try. <br />
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Since I've been preparing for Christmas for my family, I've been slacking on posting photos here. I will be trying to catch up on that, but that is not the purpose of this blog. This blog is actually geared toward my other photographer followers.<br />
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Since I have started my business I have participated in a nationwide holiday movement of photographers called Help Portrait. I encourage you to google it and check it out, and do what you can to help. It helps others and makes you feel good. The main date was actually December 4th, but I am naturally a bit behind this time of the year. This can be done anytime, and is a really good way to use your talent to give back. <br />
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For my part, I will be doing portraits for three families this year. I urge you to get into the spirit of giving, and join me in making someone's dream of custom portraits a reality. :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-73311979581288642002010-11-15T09:55:00.000-08:002010-11-15T09:55:14.741-08:00Mindy and Justin!Finally a blog post on these two!! I have been swamped the last month, and am finally catching up! This post is a mix of some wedding candids, and their Day After photos. We had a blast with the Day After photos - gotta love a bride that will lay in a field in her wedding gown! :)<br />
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Here's some from the wedding day:<br />
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And now some from the Day After! :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4130/5179171016_4c0d042b29_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4130/5179171016_4c0d042b29_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4127/5179160698_b2f260e5af_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4127/5179160698_b2f260e5af_z.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1030/5178563461_b4c9a182da_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1030/5178563461_b4c9a182da_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4133/5178560309_ba74eac42f_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4133/5178560309_ba74eac42f_z.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1038/5178550327_5b6ba32a52_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1038/5178550327_5b6ba32a52_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-75771144422614040352010-10-11T11:01:00.001-07:002010-10-11T11:01:55.280-07:00Halloween Mini-Sessions Have Arrived!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Be sure to contact and reserve your slot today!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4086/5072546614_8879d9a6f6_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4086/5072546614_8879d9a6f6_b.jpg" width="510" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-57962351360470191142010-10-09T18:15:00.000-07:002010-10-09T18:15:47.555-07:00Krystina's HomecomingIf you follow my blog you know that I never miss a chance to take photos of this gorgeous girl. :)<br />
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Oh yeah............<br />
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GO ACES!!<br />
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Anyhow....<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/5065910065_eae65320e2_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/5065910065_eae65320e2_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-32461985639168800212010-10-07T10:09:00.001-07:002010-10-07T10:09:54.306-07:00Don't be Scared!!!My disclaimer: I did not write this blog. This is borrowed (with permission of course!!!) from my good friend and fellow photographer Danielle McCann, who I adore. :) Thanks Danielle!<br />
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<h3 class="post-title entry-title"> <a href="http://dmccannphotography.blogspot.com/2010/07/bigger-is-better.html">Bigger is Better!</a> </h3><div class="post-header"> </div><div><br />
We all know that size doesn't matter... or does it?<div><br />
</div><div>Maybe it doesn't matter. I am here to tell you, though, that when it comes to portraits on your wall, sizes need to be used in such a way that they create a presence on your wall.</div><div><br />
</div><div>This can be done in several ways -- one way is to purchase a large print right off the bat. An 11x14, you ask? No. 11x14s are TINY!! A single, large print on the wall should be no less than a 16x20 in size. Even at that, some wall spaces make the 16x20 look like a grain of sand. Another way to ensure that you're utilizing your wall space is to create a collage of images in various sizes. Combine some 20x30s, 8x10s, and 10x20s for an amazing focal point in your living room.</div><div><br />
</div><div>How do you know where to start? Easy! Look at these images of a standard-sized couch with some typical image sizes hanging above them. We'll start with an 8x10, one of the most popular print sizes available.</div><div><br />
</div><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4123/4794257250_9b4dee29e1_z.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4123/4794257250_9b4dee29e1_z.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 568px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 640px;" /></a><div>Wow. That's... small! All my life I grew up thinking that an 8x10 was huge. Why do we think that? It's not even a foot long on either side! A single 8x10 image would get absolutely swallowed on the wall, even if you have a very small living space.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Now let's try to beef up the 8x10... Just for curiosity's sake, how many 8x10s would it take to cover the length of a standard couch?</div><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4134/4793611175_5c3f2f53cf_z.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4134/4793611175_5c3f2f53cf_z.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 568px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 640px;" /></a>EIGHT 8x10s!? Wow! Honestly, when I was putting together this little "project", I didn't expect these kinds of visuals! I can definitely tell from the first image to the second one that if I'm planning on using smaller wall prints, I need to have several of them to create a "feel" to the wall space rather than slapping a picture on the wall and being done with it.<div><br />
</div><div>For your viewing pleasure, here are some other individual prints versus collages to mull over:</div></div><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4114/4793614251_5a5e02643f_z.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4114/4793614251_5a5e02643f_z.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 568px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 640px;" /></a><br />
<a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4134/4793612265_7e6f452d52_z.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4134/4793612265_7e6f452d52_z.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 568px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 640px;" /></a><br />
<a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4143/4794248180_03bffabdab_z.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4143/4794248180_03bffabdab_z.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 568px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 640px;" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4081/4794254970_18c8884f64_z.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4081/4794254970_18c8884f64_z.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 568px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 640px;" /></a><br />
<a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4116/4793618483_d7079a8730_z.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4116/4793618483_d7079a8730_z.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 568px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 640px;" /></a><br />
<a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4135/4793625235_76fdf91aec_z.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4135/4793625235_76fdf91aec_z.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 568px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 640px;" /></a><br />
<a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4073/4793626215_06cd663d33_z.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4073/4793626215_06cd663d33_z.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 568px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 640px;" /></a><div style="text-align: left;">I know that large sizes can be intimidating, but clearly small sizes can be the ones intimidated -- by all of the furniture in your living room!! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">When planning your photo session, ask yourself why you are getting these portraits done. Is it to share new images with family & friends? Is it to replace some old portraits on the wall? What kind of statement do you want these portraits to make? If you need help, don't hesitate to ask!! I would be more than happy to look at your living area and help you choose the sizes that are best for you. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">But please, if you order an 8x10... don't leave it alone and lonely on the wall!! He may get scared up there by himself. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-14040125659547829862010-10-06T16:44:00.000-07:002010-10-06T16:44:40.150-07:00Johnson Kiddo'sWhen the mama of these adorable kiddo's told me she wanted the grungy feel to her photos, I couldn't have been more excited. Anyone who follows my work knows that I LOVE LOVE LOVE bright colorful photos, and this was the perfect opportunity to really show that off. Add in three gorgeous little models, and you have a winning combination!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4085/5054989762_992b3faf42_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4085/5054989762_992b3faf42_b.jpg" width="510" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4112/5054367593_592458be05_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4112/5054367593_592458be05_b.jpg" width="510" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-31523935972649764742010-10-04T07:05:00.000-07:002010-10-04T07:05:04.124-07:00A boy and his dog....My nephew got a new puppy! What better time for a photo session?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4131/5051200998_12eb64f425_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4131/5051200998_12eb64f425_b.jpg" width="510" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4110/5051198896_2c2482c7ec_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4110/5051198896_2c2482c7ec_b.jpg" width="510" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4126/5051196268_0fd60e89ec_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="510" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4126/5051196268_0fd60e89ec_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-37948815483869234752010-09-30T08:49:00.000-07:002010-09-30T08:51:23.449-07:00Time to play catchup!!It's been busy over here! I had three awesome sessions this week, and haven't had a chance to blog them, so I thought it would be fun to put them all in one big post. So here we go!!!<br />
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First of all -Mindy and Justin. I love these two, and they are so much fun! We had a great time, and one big *adventure* that shall remain a mystery. :) Any session that starts with a fire truck and ends with mexican food is an A+ session in my book!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4105/5027672379_de62d8a059_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4105/5027672379_de62d8a059_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/5027668649_e7e941426e_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/5027668649_e7e941426e_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4152/5027675985_9fa53cf08f_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="510" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4152/5027675985_9fa53cf08f_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
The next session was all about adorable little girls, nature, and animals! SO much fun!!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4108/5030346658_07de7a0429_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="510" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4108/5030346658_07de7a0429_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4092/5030348984_d80efc6758_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="510" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4092/5030348984_d80efc6758_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4154/5029727941_5438e25acc_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="510" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4154/5029727941_5438e25acc_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Annnnnd finally.....this little boy is just as sweet as he is adorable! We had a TON of fun, and even some playtime afterwards!! And we didn't find ANY crocodiles. ;)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4150/5037429817_0ee961a76a_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4150/5037429817_0ee961a76a_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4087/5038789655_d0f9ac0a63_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4087/5038789655_d0f9ac0a63_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4147/5038792535_31f1d98fd6_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4147/5038792535_31f1d98fd6_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Thanks again to ALL of my awesome clients! You are the ones who make my job such a joy! :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-23037204981566924002010-09-15T09:27:00.000-07:002010-09-15T09:27:21.333-07:00Waterball TournamentI have been so slow in posting these, but am finally getting it done. I was fortunate enough to photograph our local fire department's waterball tournament on Labor Day weekend. It was a blast to watch, and good to see these local heroes able to have a good time. :) Here are a few of the images!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/4965344076_10cbb93396_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/4965344076_10cbb93396_z.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-67781179561875004562010-09-03T19:33:00.000-07:002010-09-03T19:33:36.059-07:00Happy Labor Day!!Just a quick post to say that I hope everyone has a wonderful labor day weekend, and a reminder to be safe! It's about time I got back on track and posted a post with PHOTOS! So here are a few from a session that goes with the theme of Labor Day!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/4955376147_51da83aed8_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/4955376147_51da83aed8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4106/4955966914_da800254b5_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4106/4955966914_da800254b5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-18488396114248145452010-09-01T09:47:00.000-07:002010-09-01T09:47:16.341-07:00I'mmmmmm Baaackkkkkk!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!I have been SO busy, and also a bit under the weather. This all has led to me neglecting my poor blog, and other social networking sites. HOWEVER, now I'm back and getting ready to catch up in a big way with sneak peeks, and some awesome information! Stay tuned!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-64643266517387184652010-08-11T13:46:00.001-07:002010-08-11T13:46:09.869-07:00Voting has begun!!!I have been neglecting my poor blog here lately..because I've been busy with the Cutest Kids Contest over on the Facebook Page!!! Go check it out and VOTE VOTE VOTE!!!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-86846641284812180652010-08-05T08:06:00.000-07:002010-08-05T08:06:35.568-07:00Rain!It was 106 degrees here yesterday...with 120 heat index. In a word...miserable!!!! Today, however we woke up to storms. Kind of refreshing, if you don't consider the fact that the humidity is now out of this world! It's a lazy dreary hot day, so today's post is just a couple of snaps of the weather. :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4079/4863425262_44f622144b_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4079/4863425262_44f622144b_z.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4080/4862806851_ba754d8719_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4080/4862806851_ba754d8719_z.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-60657503967517593512010-08-03T10:19:00.000-07:002010-08-03T12:24:36.908-07:00The Difference a Professional Makes.....I got this idea from my good friend Jen of JMPNY. In the age of everyone owning a camera, it seems that our industry is flooded with people who forget that this truly is an art, and not a quick buck. The actual definition of photography is "painting with light." Not that there is anything wrong with having photography as a hobby..it's a great hobby! It's a great way to express yourself, and capture memories to last a lifetime; some of the most precious photos I own are out of focus snapshots. <br />
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With that said, I put a lot of time, effort, and money into learning my craft, so I, like many other photographers, want to protect the industry the best I can. The thing is, no one really realizes when they are undervaluing the art of photography....it's just taking photos right? You hold the camera, press the button, and load them on the computer. It IS the digital age after all!<br />
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But really there is so much more to it than that. This post is aimed toward helping people see the difference that a professional photographer can make. I've blogged before on the importance of getting the shot correct in the camera, and the importance of a photographer that shoots in manual mode, so I won't go over all that again. This post is going to focus on what happens AFTER the session is done.<br />
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I had a fun session at the fair the other night that I am going to use as my examples. This first photo is just showing the difference between the shot right off the camera, and my minimal basic processing that is done to all images.<br />
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The next photo has just a tad more processing done to it, but really not all that much. I just saw a lot of colors hiding in that building and wanted to bring them out. It is worth mentioning that I didn't add any color to that photo. I simply enhanced what was already there and begging to be seen. <br />
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And finally....who doesn't love a classic black and white photograph? The problem with the digital age is that most people, unless properly taught, do not know how to take a true black and white photo. Back in the days of film, it was actually easier. Black and white film did not produce greyscale results. Most digital conversions, however, turn your photo gray. Here is an image to show you the difference.<br />
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Notice that the true black and white photos has actual shades of black and white. The blacks are blacks and the whites are whites with no gray tint.<br />
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And there you have the difference that professional processing can make in your photos. Now you can see for yourself if the difference is worth it. Mix these results with professional papers and printings, and I'm sure that you will find that it is more than worth it!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-56217971649243551942010-08-02T17:11:00.000-07:002010-08-02T17:11:02.148-07:00It's Fair Season!!If you read my blog the other day, you saw that I took some portraits at the fair!! This blog isn't about the awesomeness of using the fair as an awesome backdrop however...it is about how pretty the fair can be in general. And how much fun it can be - no matter what your age! Enjoy the photos!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4138/4854721771_0fa587ce9f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4138/4854721771_0fa587ce9f.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4143/4854723585_ffefcbc32c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4143/4854723585_ffefcbc32c.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4078/4854726839_981d339e07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4078/4854726839_981d339e07.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4097/4855349868_bbefbafa3c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4097/4855349868_bbefbafa3c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-66136898897114077722010-07-30T09:06:00.000-07:002010-07-30T09:06:07.418-07:00Cute Couple!Before I show you the sneak peek of Krystina and Dillan, I feel it necessary to re-apologize to Dillan for shutting his finger in the door. He is obviously a trooper, seeing as how the photos don't show any pain. :P And thanks to Krystina for convincing him that having photos taken really is painless. :D<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/4843982944_03ccd623a6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/4843982944_03ccd623a6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4089/4843356343_1dcc41be7e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4089/4843356343_1dcc41be7e.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4084/4843340555_c8aa53ee57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4084/4843340555_c8aa53ee57.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4152/4843335125_e5f45c5e1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4152/4843335125_e5f45c5e1a.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4086/4843968166_6f00ebddd3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4086/4843968166_6f00ebddd3.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4145/4843328603_bf44dac7a8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4145/4843328603_bf44dac7a8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-18911302536102895942010-07-29T11:35:00.000-07:002010-07-29T11:35:18.446-07:00Summer Storms.............We're having a lot of them here in Southern Illinois this year! They're haven't been many of the severe variety, which we are thankful for, but they all seem to have a knack for the same thing....knocking out the power! Even if it's only out for a few seconds, it still results in...blinking clocks!!!! We have a lot of clocks in this house, and fortunately only one of them is inconvenienced by this. All the rest are backed up by batteries. The one that can't be back up, however, happens to be the one on my stove. The one that can't be ignored. The one that HAS to be set before you can use the oven. My husband and I spend alot of time standing at the stove, resetting that clock. I guess it could be worse...we could have to reset them ALL every time. :P<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4149/4840968677_ac3427df4a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4149/4840968677_ac3427df4a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-62382440817507159442010-07-28T13:25:00.000-07:002010-07-28T13:32:00.850-07:00Custom Photographers VS Chain Studios There seems to be a lot of questions anymore about the difference between hiring a custom photographer (such as myself) or going to a chain studio (such as Sears, Olan Mills, Walmart,etc). I figured that maybe blogging about it would clear up some of the questions that any of my followers may have.<br />
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Let’s first cover what you get when you choose a chain studio. Most chain studios have no pre requisites for their photographers. They will take whoever comes first and “train” them. The problem is that a chain studio’s training consist of showing them which auto modes to use on the camera and how to switch between backdrops. Your portraits are generally taken with a consumer grade, variable aperture lens. All of the lighting remains the same through the whole session, and you must pay for additional backdrops or poses. Then, after they are done shooting your session, they upload them to a screen, with no processing, and let you pick. Some of the higher end chains will do a batch process on all of your photos and make you wait a couple of weeks for proofs. <br />
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Let’s not forget to talk about the chain studio’s biggest attraction: the print prices. I know how fantastic that deal that you got in the mail is. Trust me, I really do understand. I know that getting all the photos they promise for that small amount of money is amazing. But let’s look a little closer shall we? If you notice the fine print it usually says “on the first pose only.” I myself fell for that little trick when my first child was born. The first pose ended up being an out of focus shot of my baby sliding out of a wicker basket. That is the only pose that qualified for the “special.” The other poses I had to pay their normal price for, and let me tell you that when you really delve deep the chain studios actually cost you more. They hide behind their package specials, and “pay per sheet” specials. When you really look at their print prices, you are paying them more for substandard work than you would pay a custom photographer for professional portraits. They know that you adore your children, and that any photo of them is beautiful in your eyes. They also know that you will pay for it. That is why, before you know what has happened, you have spent $400.00 without blinking an eye. Seeing as how the amount of time they have invested in you is only the time it took to shoot your photos and upload them they are making a huge profit. And your little one was so adorable in that lacy dress or bib overalls that you don’t even notice that orange tint to their skin, or the fact that you can see the railing of the backdrop stand in the photo. <br />
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Now let’s talk about custom photographers. I certainly cannot speak for all of my colleagues, so I will just tell you how my normal workflow goes. When I get an inquiry about a session, I try to respond the same day. There is a consultation with the client, either in person or by email/phone, about what they are looking for in their portraits and what kind of location they would like. Almost all of my work is shot on location, indoors or out, to suit the client’s needs. This forces me to really know my stuff since I face many different lighting situations; not just the same lighting for every session. <br />
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After the consultation and booking of the session, it’s time to plan out what I will need and get it all set and ready to go. On the day of the session I load all of my camera equipment, along with any backdrops, stands, and props that I may need, and drive to meet my client. We spend as much time as needed to get the desired shots, moving from area to area, maybe changing clothes, and even setting up a backdrop outdoors to get both outdoor and studio shots. The whole session is shot by me, with my camera and professional lenses, in manual mode. This way I control the look of your photos instead of the camera. When the session is over, I load all of my stuff back up and head home. At this point, the client is done with the session. I, however, am just beginning. <br />
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Post processing is what can really make or break a photo. I shoot in RAW, so even though I am all digital, I literally have to develop the photos the same way a film photographer would in a darkroom. The difference is that I do it on a computer instead of with paper and chemicals. After I have loaded all of the images on the computer, I go through and do the “developing.” Then I open them in my processing program and I enhance them. There is a big difference between processing a photo and editing a photo. Processing is simply enhancing all the great qualities that you got right in camera. Editing is changing the photo, making it different, fixing problems. But I digress, that is a subject for another blog. I personally process each and every photo for the session. When they are ready to be proofed, I usually pack up my calibrated laptop and meet with my client to proof their photos. I do this so the client sees the photos at the colors and sharpness they are meant to be seen. Their home computer may not be calibrated, and they would not be seeing what I see. Of course I still offer online proofing if it is necessary. After the client has seen their proofs in person, I upload them to the online gallery so that they may show them off, and let anyone else who wants to order get a look. <br />
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After all that….I am still not done!! I help the clients decide on what they want if they need it, maybe even going to their home to check their wall space and show samples. Then, when they order, I load and specify every item to my lab, receive and inspect each item from the lab, package the order, and finally deliver the final product. <br />
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So as you can see I have a lot more time invested in the process of getting that photo on your wall than your local chain studio. I also have more invested in relevant equipment, and most of all, knowledge. I went through way more to learn how to produce the work that I do than a one day workshop at a studio. More than that, I continue to learn all the time. The changing environments that I shoot in make sure that I am constantly learning. <br />
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Now to be fair, I understand that not everyone can afford a custom photographer, and that is why chain studios have their place. I myself have used them in the past, and I’m sure we all have photos of ourselves when we were younger that were taken when chain studios first began. This blog was inspired simply by the lack of information that is out there on the difference between the two options. I hope it cleared up some of the questions, and for the next blog I will try to have a topic that has photos. It is after all..a photography blog. ;)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-85546278979146827662010-07-26T09:11:00.001-07:002010-07-26T09:11:36.387-07:00Cutest Kids Contest!!!!It has arrived!!!!!!!!!!!!!! See my Facebook Note for all the details!<br />
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http://www.facebook.com/note.php?created&&suggest&note_id=140100712678412&id=342690989972#!/note.php?note_id=140100712678412Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4818175099042353654.post-40951627577394700372010-07-12T14:42:00.000-07:002010-07-12T14:42:30.483-07:00It's been awhile!!!<span style="font-size: small;">It has been quite a long while since I ran a special!! So, in honor of my faithful and deserving clients who allow me to be a part of their lives, I think it's time to run another one!</span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">For the next two weeks, previous clients qualify for the client appreciation special!! If you have previously had your photos done by me, and need more photos taken, this is for you! If you book your session in the next two weeks, (they don't have to be shot in that time frame, just scheduled), then you receive 30% off the session fee and a free sheet of wallets with your order!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Email me for more details or to book a session! </span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4100/4736396445_d278dffce8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4100/4736396445_d278dffce8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4075/4736394707_8bf746952c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4075/4736394707_8bf746952c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4101/4736397781_5f2de853ea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4101/4736397781_5f2de853ea.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4117/4737036206_b996ded9d6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4117/4737036206_b996ded9d6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span>Phyllis...the photos should be done in the next couple of days!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0