Saturday, October 31, 2009

Portrait Party Portfolio

So, last Sunday was my Premier Portrait Party hosted by my great friend, Crystal. She had 5 of her friends over for an Open House style party and in the relaxed, party atmosphere, I spent 20 minutes photographing each of the families as the kids played in Crystal's backyard. It was a blast!! The kids got to play, I had a ball, and all the Moms seem to be happy with their images so overall a great success!! I hope to do a lot more of these in the future.

If you're interested in learning more about Portrait Parties, please let me know and I can send you a hostess package. Did I mention that the hostess earns FREE PRINTS!! And your guests get access to great Portrait Party Exclusive Collections and Specials. It's truly a great experience for everyone!

Below are some of my favorite shots from the afternoon. Enjoy!



Friday, October 23, 2009

Holiday Mini-Sessions Announced

Are you wondering how you're going to get a family photo for your Christmas card this year? Problem solved!

I'm am excited to announce that on November 8th, Illustrations Photography will be offering special holiday mini-sessions. This is a great opportunity for anyone looking for Christmas card images or Christmas portrait gifts. Just sign up for a 30-minute time slot and come ready to smile. Approximately one week after your session, you will receive 7-10 finished proofs in your private online gallery. Choose your favorite photos and select the package that's right for you. All packages include prints and at least one high resolution digital image and prices begin at just $150 with no session fee!

A La Carte gift prints and wall art will also be available ON SALE.

I have received a lot of requests for holiday family photos and only have a limited number of sessions available so I expect these sessions to book up! Tell your friends and contact me today to reserve your time.

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Second Set of Sisters


These little cuties are just 14 months apart and I bet they keep Mom very busy! We had a great time playing in the back yard and some got some great giggles when they were together. Lots of fun...thanks Lisa! I know you're anxious to get your photos - I'll get them to you soon.

In the meantime, enjoy...

Girl Power


Yesterday I had two sessions and both of them were two sisters. I have an older sister so I always enjoy seeing the dynamics of how sisters get along. I really enjoyed my time with these two sweeties and Mom got some great outfits. Thanks so much for sharing them with me, Laura.

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Winter Wonders

Today was meant to be a lovely fall shoot. Unfortunately for three terrific little boys it felt more like winter than fall! They were great and braved the cold weather though and they looked just adorable. Thanks for being such great troopers, guys.....and Mom and Dad, too!

BTW, I think maybe this family is hoping to be seen on future Illustrations Photography marketing materials....they're wearing my colors! Good thinking, Amy...that just might work.


Sunday, October 4, 2009

When All Else Fails...


I mentioned that I love a challenge, right? Well, today I got one! :-) Sweet little Sam is your typical 5 year old who wants to please by offering his perfect smile for the camera. I tell ya, that kid could talk, laugh, probably even eat with that same smile on! My goal is always to get beyond the "canned" smile and get to the real kid....we got there but not without me having to create a few new tricks...including bribing him with a lollipop. I love that kid!! I'm posting several so mom, Jen, can relax. There are loads more cute ones to come. Emily, on the other hand, was too easy. I'm learning that 7 - 9 year old girls are my easiest targets and so fun!!

Thanks for letting me play in the field and for letting your kids play on the train tracks, Jen!

Friday, October 2, 2009

Sorry for what?


I realized tonight, as I was smiling while reviewing pictures, that at almost every session I do I hear the same thing...."Sorry". Not from the kids, of course...from the Mom's. Mom's always think their kids are tough and feel bad for me that their kids won't sit still and smile but you know what? I have the best time! The truth is that if they sat down and smiled easily, there would be no need for me. :-) I consider it my challenge to figure out what makes a kid smile. I admit, some are easier than others. But I love a challenge!! So, Mom's - listen up.. Absolutely no more apologies necessary!!! I'm honored that you would share your families with me and believe me, I'm loving every minute of it!

So, the pictures I was reviewing while smiling and thinking all this were of three lovely children that I got to know today. We had fun hiding leaves under our feet, checking out grasshoppers and the local cat, eating tomatoes (I'm going to miss those when they're gone), and getting some beautiful shots. Enjoy the sneak peek, Kris, and thank you!