Jill's Blog

And so it begins...

2012-01-05T17:54:00.000-08:00

It's going to be a great year! That's what we all tell ourselves. In this case, though, I have to say it's true! The year is starting-off with a huge cover contest with our high schools, spearheaded by Mrs. Urrea's Advanced Marketing class at Lambert High School. Be on the look-out for the March cover of Up in Cumming and see how we do!

Last year was another great year of growth, both in my business and in my skill as a photographer. I had some amazing teachers, a lot of support from family and friends, and super nice clients. I continue to love what I do and wake-up amazed at how everything keeps growing (especially my children!) Of course, this is not without a lot of hard work.

I am presented with some new challenges this year. First is how to continue to improve an already great business. To accomplish this, I am happy to announce that Claire McDonald will be joining my staff. Between Claire, Nicole and I, I believe we will achieve the lofty goals we have set for ourselves and have a blast working together. It all starts with a trip to Imaging USA in New Orleans in January. I personally can't wait!

I am also challenging myself with the completion of a bucket-list item. I will be competing in my first triathlon! I have joined the folks at Team In Training which benefits the The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Fundraising is involved, so watch for some great promotions coming your way that will benefit this cause. I look forward to accomplishing my financial commitment, but more important, I look forward to crossing that finish line!

I hope you enjoy the "year in review" of some of my work from 2011. I wish all of you a peaceful, prosperous and blessed 2012!

Jill's Family Photography 2011 Year in review

Autumn, Family Portraits, and FOOTBALL!

2011-09-09T05:58:00.000-07:00

My son, James, started football this year. I was apprehensive as he's 7, in second grade, and it's tackle. I didn't think I'd be one of those overly protective moms, but you can't help but worry when they run around with the helmets and pads that make them look like little bobble-head dolls. Smashed fingers, bruises, broken ankles are all part of the game. But then I got out of my own way (something I should be doing more of) and watched them play. Our coaches are wonderful in encouraging the spirit of the game and developing the skills necessary for them to be safe. And he's doing a great job, when he's not doing somersaults or handstands between drills.

My other son, Jeb, started kindergarten this year. He is adapting beautifully! I chalk it up to having great pre-K teachers and the personality of a politician. I am sure this year is going to fly by for him, and me as well.

Both of these milestones are even more apparent to me in their meaning as I have been helping a lot of parents with their high school student's senior ad for their yearbook. There are pictures of them as babies, on their first day of kindergarten, in middle school, and then suddenly they look like a young adult. I am ever mindful that the time with my own children is precious and fleeting.

In light of that, I will be doing family portrait specials throughout September, October and November. It is the perfect time with the summer heat finally easing into cooler temperatures. If you want the Fall color, call soon! People are already filling-up those precious weekends.

In the meantime, I am off to a week of continuing education that I take every year up in Clarksville. This year, I am taking “High End Weddings and Portraits" from Thomas & Mario Munoz. The wonderful thing about this class is that it applies to how I approach my high school senior photography. Weddings are about capturing the story of a day and the essence of the relationship, one moment at a time. When photographing my seniors, I try to capture the full range of personality that makes them unique. I look forward to learning alot not only from two of the indstry's top wedding photographers, but from all of my classmates and friends as well. For those not familiar with my own wedding photography, here's a sneak peek!

Don't Blink...

2011-06-01T06:30:00.000-07:00

Wow. It's graduation day today. Not sure what happened to April! Between taking a much-needed break with the family over spring break, and trying to keep up with my seniors before graduation, it's been nuts.

To all of the 2011 graduates, my favorite Irish Blessing: May the Lord keep you in His hand, and never close His fist too tight.

Jeb, Lilly and Jack. We need to teach
Jeb how to loosen-up!

Speaking of graduation, my youngest, Jeb, just graduated from pre-school. I had to share what he chose to wear the the luau - keeping in mind his class award was for "King of Debate".

My other son just lost his upper front tooth yesterday, too. It's pretty cute. Can't wait for both to go, then I will be able to do my Christmas card (and for all of you with "All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth" stuck in your head now, I apologize!).

So as with the last post, I find myself looking at new beginnings. Both of my boys will be in the same grade school in the Fall. This amazing group of 2011 graduates will be going away and the 2012 graduates are already stepping-up to make their own mark. I have been meeting a lot of new babies, too! They are precious and tiny and growing so fast. It is a privilege to help document their first year. The year is already half over and I'm not sure where the first part went!

With everything moving at the pace it does, I hope all of you (and me, too!) get a chance to enjoy a few slow, summer days. Of course, it's a great time to get the family together for that portrait you've been putting-off for so long, too! Stay tuned for the adventure that was my family's portrait at the beach...

New Ideas, New Chapters, and New Season

2011-03-30T08:24:00.000-07:00

I just returned from SEPPA (South Eastern Professional Photographers Association) and I am so motivated and inspired. I am reminded at every turn that our most valuable asset is time and the way we spend it is critical, both in our business and personal lives. I wish I were 4 people so I could impliment all the ideas I have after a week of learning. I have narrowed it down and will be using a few starting now to continue to improve both my skill and service so I can make my client's experience even better.

I am proud to report that the images I entered in print competition did well on our state level, with all four receiving merits. I look forward to posting them after they enter national, but as some of the judges are friends I don't want to ruin my chances before then by letting them see (they are not allowed to judge if they know the maker).

On another note, it's always interesting to me when April fast approaches and suddenly graduation is around the corner. Some of the seniors I have gotten to know will be moving on to their next chapter in leaving home for college soon. Every time it seems like the year has flown by, and this year is no exception. This group of 2011 graduates continually amaze me with their involvement, work ethic, academic excellence, service and tallent. I cannot wait to hear how they do in their next venture and have high expectations for their future success in all they put their minds to achieving.

And it comes at a time when there are new beginings all around us. I love Spring in the south. The dogwoods are creating an artistic canvas in the forests and the azelas are all showing the beginning of color. My son, James, was born in April and these images always bring me back to the time when I started my new beginning as a mom.

Now we have our annual charity event with bunnies. This year our session proceeds will be donated to the Teacher Grant program created by the Junior League of Forsyth. They are helping teachers to create programs that will support learning in the classroom. There are studio and outdoor sessions available, just call to schedule.

I am sure I will see the students who benefit from this program when they are seniors, and will be just as proud of the adults they will become.

Getting Ready...

2011-02-17T07:20:00.000-08:00

The end of the year is always crazy busy for most photographers and I was no exception. After some much-needed downtime in January, a trip to a national photography convention for inspiration and to test for my Certification (I passed the test, now submitting images for review - I'll let you know!), and creating a marketing plan for the year, I finally feel ready for the year. Well, almost.

I look forward to print competition in March where I will be able to see my images rated and critiqued by my peers. This is always a nerve-wracking experience, but well-worth the investment. I have some strong images this year. They either will do very well, or get critiqued enough to go re-work them. Either way it is a great experience.

I am getting my reps for the class of 2012 scheduled. If you know of a rising junior who is interested, just let me know. We have charity events with our Easter bunnies and Santa at Wakoola Water Gardens again. I am already scheduled to volunteer at a few events and look forward to lending more support as opportunities arise. I am working on fundraisers and promotions and contests. I'm creating family portrait promotions and am starting to take more pictures of babies - I love the newborns!

There is always so much to do. It seems no matter how prepared you are, there is always more. I am trying to do a better job of turning out the lights and spending more evenings with the family. The eternal struggle for balance is ever-present in my home.

I leave for a business seminar next week with one of the - no, THE top trainer in the industry. It is an honor to be accepted into this class given my business has only been going for 2 years as of March. I am hoping to be fully prepared for all that comes my way this year. Looking forward to growth, taking lots more pictures, and meeting the people I get to call my clients.

A year in review

2010-12-29T12:57:00.000-08:00

2010 was a great year of growth, both personally and professionally. While it's never easy to start a business with young children, I have great clients that made the efforts worth it. Here are just some of my favorite images to share with you.

I wish you a peaceful and prosperous 2011.

Many Blessings,
Jill

I am so thankful...

2010-11-19T07:29:00.000-08:00

This is an amazing time of year. I love when the air is crisp and the colors are vibrant. I love wearing sweaters and I love boots. Mostly, I love Thanksgiving.

This is the one holiday where no one "gets stuff". There are no presents or candy or even more candy, no expectations to rush and "buy" something of use or significance for others (the pressure of finding the perfect gift - ugh!). It's the one time a year where we all can just be thankful for those around us and the blessings in our lives.

I am very thankful for the opportunities that presented themselves to me in my business this past year. My family has been a source of strength and laughter and I am overwhelmed by the joy and contentment they bring to my life. I feel blessed we have weathered the storms of the economy and the difficulties that brought about for us. I have witnessed personal stories of survival and am thankful for gift of health, the benefit of circumstance, and the value of freedom. I feel fortunate to have known those who are no longer with us, even while missing their presence. And I am grateful to have the support of dear friends who know just what to say to me at any given moment.

I look forward to the upcoming week helping a few capture memories of their own family visiting from all over the country, so they can always look at the blessings that surround them. I hope you have a moment to breathe in all that you have to be thankful about.

Many Blessings,
Jill

My Family: David,(I would be the only girl in this picture!)
Jacob - 13, James -6, and Jeb -4
Taken by my dear friend, Zandra Horkan

A Past President, Charities, Santa, Families...

2010-10-18T15:15:00.000-07:00

It has been a very busy time at the studio lately! I just returned from working in Las Vegas for an event. I was hired to be the photographer for the event and for the "meet and greet" session with former President Clinton. It was truly an honor. It was humbling to go from never even seeing any of our presidents in person to taking pictures of one. I was also able to take pictures of him speaking, the only photographer cleared to be inside the ropes. I got amazing images and look forward to sharing some once they are approved by his staff. And for the record, he was charming and professional and very tired. He is working to do a lot of good for Haiti and other causes, and had just finished a 7-country tour. His staff, most of them 30+ years his junior, said they could barely keep up with him!

Our studio is currently holding two different charity promotions.

The first is our 2010 Charity Event, Portraits with Santa. We are holding it once again at Wakoola Water Gardens. It is a beautiful location and the children really get a chance to speak with him.

We have several session times available. Just call to schedule yours!

The Second is a Family Portrait Fundraiser for Lambert DECA Chapter. They are working on creating a scholarship for a deserving 2011 graduate and also to raise funds for the national DECA competition. I hope you can support them.

I Look forward to this busy season and all the wonders it can bring. I hope to hear from you and your family as you prepare your Holiday shopping list. We have lots of solutions for meaningful gifts. If you want more information, please just call and ask us!

Whatever happened to the experience...

2010-08-21T18:01:00.000-07:00

So I FINALLY went clothes shopping the other day. Typically I have my two young boys in tow, go through the store like a tornado, and end up returning 90% of what I purchased because I didn't have time to try them on before I bought them. Not this time. After working really long hours (and thankful for the business!), I took the time to meet a friend for coffee. With not enough time to go back to the office and work, but too much time before getting the kids, I went shopping. I was SO excited.

I went it one store and told them what I was looking for. They were wonderful in fawning all over me to try and make me feel really good about myself. And while the styles they choose were not really "me", I spent about 30 full minutes just trying new looks on, feeling awkward most of the time. I walked out with a great blazer that was on sale, but didn't feel the sales people understood me or my style as opposed to trying to make their daily sales quota.

Then I went to the store next door - the real reason I was even in the shopping center to begin with. There were out of 4 different items in my size. They weren't even on sale, they just were out. So I tried something comparable on. The person at the register had to leave her post to let me in. When I needed a different size, no one was there to help leaving me stranded to get dressed, go grab the new size, try on that item, get dressed again, and leave the store completely deflated. Turns out the rest of the staff was in the back planing for a big visit from "corporate".

Have we learned nothing in the recent economy - customer is king! Who cares if corporate is coming if your inventory is off and your customers are miserable!

I always try and say, "Yes!" to any request my clients make. It's not always easy or convenient to have a portrait taken. If your trying to get the whole family together, the kids can be difficult, dad hardly ever wants to have it done, and mom is stressed because she understands the importance of what they are doing.

Your time is so valuable to me. Helping you create a memory to smile at every time you look at the wall is important. These moments don't happen again. Ever. Whether it's a wedding, a family portrait, the first precious images of a newborn, or a high school senior about to leave for college, they all matter.

I promise to always do my best to understand you and what your expectations are. I will not influence to purchase anything outside of the amount you have to invest. I will understand what you are looking for and make sure you will be happy with it for years to come. And I promise that I will never do anything that would make my clients not feel like they are the most important part of my business.

I appreciate all of you and I love what I do. Thanks for shopping with me!

Seniors! Lots of 2011 Grads...

2010-08-01T11:44:00.000-07:00

Working tirelessly to finish the last details in the studio, but having a lot of senior sessions in the meantime. And man, it's been HOT. I mean HOT. These guys have been troopers, managing to look beautiful in 105 degree heat index and sun beating down. But they did it, and I can't wait to post the images after the come in to see them.

In the meantime, here are a few sneak peeks... Stay cool, people!

Doorways, babies and vacation...well, a working vacation.

2010-07-01T14:01:00.000-07:00

Still finishing a number of pesky details in the new studio design, but it's looking sooooo good. I've been shooting in the studio, even though I just picked-up my doors today. So now I not only have walls and ceilings, but a room with actual doors for clients to change in. I'm sure they will appreciate the privacy.

Actually, I'm having a lot of fun with the details. It's great having a blank canvas such as an unfinished basement to work with. There is a lot of big things that make a quick impact, but I'm finding it's the details that are making it all come together. And there is an order to it. We are picking-out lighting this weekend so I can choose paint colors. It may seem backwards, but there are so many options for lights, all that produce a certain mood and I want the total design to reflect the impact of the details. Then we're finally hanging the doors and I get to hang the casing around the door, all of this needs to be painted as well.

We went to PA last week on a working vacation. I meet some really wonderful people that my husband works with. Got some great images of their plant. We were able to take some time for fun as well. We took the boys to the Hershey plant where they made their own chocolate bar. I'm thinking we're all going to have almost as much fun eating them this weekend.

Oh, and all this while I keep scheduling bookings (which I am very happy to have). More class of 2011, a lot of corporate work and quite a few babies lately. Here are a few of the young ones. I've been taking Sarah's picture since she was 3 months old. Sophie is growing fast and is a total charmer. Alayna is really developing her personality and she sure did great with the hats! Here are a few of "the girls". I'll post some of the seniors later.

More progress...

2010-06-17T12:56:00.000-07:00

As usual, I have taken on a monumental task that is twice as long and a bit more than I planned on spending right now, but it's working out beautifully. Although, it does have me feeling a bit overwhelmed. The studio looks great, have some finishing touches to put on, like doors, paint a couple rooms, and hang all of my samples. I moved my office to what was the dining room and it is starting to settle-in nicely. The good news for the kids is they now have their own area where my office once was. It's nice for them to have some space where they can just be themselves. Unfortunately, the only person not getting more space is my husband, but at least I will finally be out of his office 100%. I know he's looking forward to that.

In the midst of all this, I've still had my sessions. I appreciate all of my clients who have been patient with me the past few weeks. It's very appreciated.

Here's some of what I've been doing...

Progress...(Yea!)

2010-05-26T06:12:00.000-07:00

I have been working really hard clearing out my space. It's been great going through everything getting rid of things no longer needed. I now have a clean space to work with and design as I need it. For those that have been in the studio, there is no longer a pool table. I'm sad, but my kids aren't really old enough to play it and it was in the way of my shots. Now there is so much space!

Along with the studio being remodeled, we are adding a lot of new looks for your sessions. Lindsay and Laura, who will be interning with me this summer, will be creating some custom backgrounds with me. This is in addition to a bunch on new ones I recently invested in. This means more options to create several unique looks. I can't wait to start paining.

We are also creating a new space for looking at your images after your session is done. You will be able to see your images projected to the actual size they will be on your wall and in the frame of your choice. It will help you make decisions on what size, color, grouping and finish without any of the guesswork. I am really excited about this.

I will keep you posted on the progress as I go. Here is the studio space now. I will have more pictures of our preview room later!

This is the studio. It's a very long room perfect for lots of camera options and shooting areas. We are putting walls in, will be fixing the ceiling to a cool "loft" finish. We're keeping the cement, though - it's a great background!

Our work and framing room:

IT'S TIME FOR 2011 GRADS!

2010-04-21T19:33:00.000-07:00

I am so excited for the new high school seniors this year! I have new stuff in the studio, a few new locations to shoot in, and some amazing reps at the schools talkin' about all the ideas we have going on to make their senior portraits even more fun. Look for info on my senior reps in the next week...

In the meantime, been having fun with some of the 2010 seniors. Making sure they get their pictures done before graduation and creating some cool announcements. Look at some of Mallory's pictures and just wait to see what we do with them!

Hike For Hyde

2010-04-18T16:09:00.000-07:00

I had a great time at the Hike for Hyde this weekend! If you aren't familiar with Hyde, he is a 3 1/2 year old boy with a terrible disease - Atypical HUS. Bryan Hearn and Kegley Hubbard are two other local boys who suffer from this disease and who were also honored at the event this year.

In the United States, there is believed to be between 300 - 600 cases. Most cases occur in young children, although some adults may suddenly get hit with the disease. There is no cure for Atypical HUS. In fact, there is no standard treatment, as each case is different. For more information about Hyde, Bryan and Keagley, please go to http://www.hikeforhyde.com/.

For more pictures of the day, go to: http://jharrelson.photobiz.com/cart/event_select.cfm?eventID=403187 . I am so grateful to have been part of this event.

Check out the video!

Ah Spring... and the pollen is here!

2010-04-10T05:44:00.000-07:00

I love love love the spring in the South! It's absolutely beautiful. The pear and cherry trees are done blooming and the dogwoods and red buds are starting. My azaleas are about ready to add a burst of color in my garden. It's finally warm, and it's finally a good time for outdoor pictures!

I’ve been telling people to wait a week or two until it's pretty outside. Well, it's pretty! No need to wait any longer! Yea!

Of course, there is the 2" of pollen on your car every day. Seriously. I didn't know it could be worse than last year. It's unbelievable.

At home we're finishing our spring break and my kindergartner is actually excited to go back to school - as is his mom! It's been great being with them this week, but we are all ready for our normal routines again.

Don't forget to become a fan of ours on Facebook. We are having weekly givaways! You will want to see what we're up to!

Here's hoping you have a wonderful week!

SENIORS! CLASS OF 2011 - IT'S YOUR TIME!

2010-03-23T09:32:00.000-07:00

You Will Not Find Another Experience Like Ours ANYWHERE! I'm starting to book sessions for the class of 2011. You have to get your yearbook pictures from that school photographer, but YOU DON'T HAVE YOU BUY THEM!!!! Get your senior pictures your way. Call us.

And just for reading my blog, I'm offering my most popular session, "THE 90" AT NO CHARGE - ONLY for 2011 GRADUATES. The complimentary session must be booked and shot by May 31, 2010. Sessions will book fast, and when they're gone, well, can't create time (although I've tried), they're gone...

Tell your friends and share the love. To get your free session, just mention the code "Jill Rocks" when you call. (I had to have some fun with the code!)

Have a great day & enjoy the new Senior Video! (Click below)

http://animoto.com/play/B6ivc6Z4GmxhIA5eSbiIjA

A Great Week Ahead...

2010-03-15T05:24:00.000-07:00

The time change... ugh! If I wanted to wake up this early, I would be doing it and working out before my children get up! But, I am finding it does have it's perks. It feels like you get a lot more done when you start your day in the dark. The birds are just starting to chirp, the sun it just coming up, and it's my favorite light of the day. I wish I could get some of my high school seniors to meet me at 7:30! Not sure that's possible...

I had a great weekend with glamour and senior sessions - here's a sneak peak at a couple of them...
Have more to post later! Looking forward to a lot of cute bunny pics this weekend as well!

A "Sunny" Celebration

2010-03-09T10:53:00.000-08:00

I was blessed to witness the celebration of a wonderful life last week. Sunny was a loving wife with a twinkle in her eye. She was adored by her family, her friends, and all that were fortunate to be touched by her - and she left us all too soon. I am lucky to be close friends with her son and his wife, and, because they are like family to me, I was blessed to know her.

I had the honor of photographing her funeral - a first for me. I wasn't sure how people would react to a photographer at a funeral. I guarantee that some must have been surprised to see me there. But, when I arrived at their beautiful home, I started to notice something. Amidst all the beautiful antiques and exquisitely decorated rooms were images of her family. Some were ones I photographed over the years, some were in paintings that a relative created, and others were those taken from many years past. To her, these images were more valuable than anything she owned. When her precious grandchildren couldn’t be with her, she had their images near her at every turn. These pictures comforted her and brought her joy.

At the end of what we hope is a full life, many funeral services include a slideshow - snapshots of happy times and memories of who we were. And this was the case for Sunny as well. There were the friendships (and the Gainesville Girls!), her childhood, the courtship and wedding with the love of her life, the images of a mother, the campaigns with her husband, the days as a teacher, and the fun times along the way. Not to diminish the material things we earn and are lucky to enjoy during our time here, but the things that matter most are the memories we create and the joy we bring to another. These images, whether from a professional or just fun snapshots, are truly priceless.

I was honored to help capture those memories for her over the past few years. I hope the images I created brought her joy. She touched my life and work in a way few will understand, but I will always look at certain images I create and say, "Now, Sunny would love this one!"

Much like those pictures throughout the home, I believe that the images I captured at the funeral will help comfort the family. It will help them see some of the over 400 people who paid their respects. It will help them see the the impact of her life.

Warm Fuzzies...

2010-02-25T17:04:00.000-08:00

As I write this, my son is getting ready for bed and is excited to put his warm, fuzzy jammies on. I hope to join him soon, as I would like nothing better than to be warm and comfy with the satisfaction of a full, productive day behind me. I have experienced a lot of warm fuzzies this week.

Today, I was very fortunate to receive a lot of amazing stuff from a photographer named Scott - somewhat of a rock star in my line of work. He and his wife have committed to raising over $100,000 for charity this year. They choose a different charity each month to put their efforts toward- so long as it pertains to a child. This month, the charity is Maggie, who is in the hospital. Scott has materials and seminars for photographers, and I was able to bid an insanely low amount and get an amazing amount in return - and all the money goes to Maggie. They were able to raise over $2,000 in one day with their efforts! Talk about a warm fuzzy.

It makes me so grateful that my children are healthy. A friend of mine isn't so lucky. Her son, Hyde, has a rare disorder that there is not a cure for. To raise awareness and funds, they are holding the second annual Hike for Hyde on April 17 : http://www.hike4hyde.com/. If you're available, it's a wonderful day for everyone. And you certainly will go to bed with a warm fuzzy - because nothing feels better than being able to help another who could use it.

I'm going to be working with some photographer friends in the near future to do some things for our community. I have a few ideas, but welcome yours. What would you like to see? Is there a charity you'd like me to support? I have lots of ideas! Just call or email me when yu have a moment - I'd love to hear from you.

2010-02-19T10:11:00.000-08:00

Bunnies and seniors and families... oh my! Look for some great products that we will offer only to our Class of 2011 Seniors. In the meantime - I am looking at the sweetest bunnies I've ever seen! I'm getting ready for our bunny sessions in March. If you purchase a Spring Bunny Session, you'll receive a complimentary family session to be used later in the year!

I'm also working hard on the studio. I'm adding new sets and a new sales room. I look forward to showing it off in the near future.

Here's to hoping you have something as sweet in your life as these bunnies! Enjoy!

The outlook for 2010...

2010-02-02T10:10:00.001-08:00

A few weeks ago I drove to Nashville to attend Imaging USA, the PPA's (Professional Photographers of America) annual photo expo. They estimated that over 12,000 photographers registered for the show. It was packed! The seminars were informational, the people I met were energetic and optimistic, and the overall experience was invaluable to me. I was honored to attend. I look forward to next year in San Antonio!

I was also very grateful to meet a few photographers from around here. It's funny how sometimes we go a long way to get to know people in your own back yard. In addition to my friends Zandra (a wonderful photographer in Buckhead) and Debra (another from Madison, GA), and Susan from Virginia, I got to know Keith and Sandy Key from right here in Cumming. I feel very lucky to be in the same town as them and look forward to getting to know them and their beautiful family even more.

Most people would be shocked that I am mentioning a "competitor" on my blog. But, I will tell you that we have a wonderful community of many talented photographers here in Forsyth County. And we only compete with ourselves. We all have unique styles and focus our talent in the way that both allows us to express our passion for our art and run a business doing what we love. And what we do truely is art.

We create images that inspire you, move you, document a life, and preserve a memory. Our images are priceless and only increase in value over time. As a photographer, I am passionate about these moments and love to create them for my clients.

I feel very lucky that I can call my "competitors", "friends". I also feel truely blessed to earn a living from my passion.

I am looking forward to the energetic optimism continuing throughout the year. What a great beginning!

Time for a suprise wedding!

2009-07-21T15:49:00.000-07:00

Wow - I still can't believe I have a blog. It's been in the works for ages (in my head, that is), and it turns out it only took a few minutes and a phone call to make it happen. It reminded me of what it's like to plan a wedding - so many ideas and details that only are a call away. Then there are all the little details that take forever to get sorted out. It's fun and challenging and a bit overwhelming, but in the end worth all the effort. Next challenge...an actual newsletter.

My best friend and college roommate is getting married in a surprise ceremony (only a few of us are in on it). She's throwing a casual "End of Summer Bash", at which she will surprise her guests with her wedding! I have the honor of photographing it and I can't wait to share it with you. Many couples are choosing a more casual route - especially older or second-time brides. By having a surprise wedding, there is no fuss, no registering for gifts, no constant inquiries about your plans, nothing to worry about besides having enough food and ensuring that all key people show-up. It's a fabulous option. Now if my friend can only find a dress by Aug. 23!

Welcome to my blog...

2009-07-10T08:42:00.000-07:00

Well. It's finally time and I am proud to welcome you to by new blog. We've been working hard and are so excited with what we have in store for the rest of the year.

We have great new ideas for our high school seniors - sure to please both senior and mom at the same time. Look for our new Seniors gallery on our web page coming soon.

Look for the Fairies and Frills special sessions. We have some great pettiskirts for the girls to wear or they can bring their own outfit - sure to be a fun day!

On a personal note, I am so excited about all the recent family portrait sessions we've ben doing. It just keeps getting more fun. I can't believe how lucky I am to be able to take portraits for a living!