Baby Addison

Sorry, I just couldn't resist this adorable tush as the first slide in Addison's slideshow! Addison's portrait session was the 3rd furthest distance I've traveled for a session (McDonough, GA) and wow, was the trip worth it! Addison and her parents are fantastic. Really nice people and she couldn't be more cute. She was getting over being sick and although she was napping when I arrived, after she woke up she quickly lost energy and almost fell asleep twice. Her mom says that it takes a while before she finally gives in and falls asleep even if she's exhausted. Which explains why I was able to photograph her dozing off to sleep in her crib and then wide awake and smiling. So funny! I'm sure many of you mommies can relate.

Click the picture to view the slideshow and enjoy!

Portrait Day 2008 - some details

After last year's successful first Annual Portrait Day, I have my sites set on a bigger event filled with local children's shops and companies that provide services to families and kids. In addition to a larger all-day event where you can mingle with other parents and the kids can meet and play together, we will be donating a portion of the proceeds to a worthy non-profit. I've placed a poll at the top of this blog because I'd love your input on which organization you think we should donate to.

If you have suggestions of business you think would like to be involved, please write it in the comments section below. This year's Portrait Day will be in September so check back to learn more about the fun event!

Carly's Bat Mitzvah

Carly's Bat Mitzvah and Reception were fantastic! Although I didn't attend the actual Bat Mitzvah, I heard that she did an amazing job leading services and reading from the Torah. In fact, her dad said that she thrives under pressure so the nerves I saw at the rehearsal must have helped her do an outstanding job.

Just a couple weeks before the big weekend, we did some portraits of Carly on the tennis court and at their home. Then with the help of her mom and a friend, she chose three images for the sign-in board at the party. You'll see a shot of that in the slideshow. I love that they wanted to do something a bit out of the ordinary and include more than just one photo.

All the details that were meticulously put together were great. From pink Gerber daisies to Carly's name in lights, from jewelry engraving to green-screen photos, from flat screens showing the party to festive lighting throughout the room, the party was fantastic and it was great to be a part of it.


Services were held at The Temple.
The reception was at the newly renovated W Atlanta Midtown Hotel.
Catering by W Atlanta Midtown
Event Coordination by Sharon at It's My Party, Inc.
Music and Entertainment by EventOvation

If you'd like to be notified when the Preview Website (with all the pictures from the portrait, rehearsal and reception) is released, click here to add your email address.

Click the picture below to view the slideshow.



Mazel Tov Carly!

Alyssa & Anthony

Another beautiful day of adventure at The Roswell Mill. Alyssa and Anthony are 8 year old twins who's personalities definitely came out during our shoot. Alyssa is pensive, calm and cautious while Anthony is talkative, curious and adventurous. Despite the heat, we had a great time playing in the Chattahoochee River.

This portrait session brought to you by ...... Alyssa and Anthony's Great Aunt who gave the portrait session as a 10 year wedding anniversary to their parents. What a great way to celebrate such a wonderful occasion. While I photograph mostly babies, toddlers, young children, and weddings, and I look forward to my own wedding this fall, 10 years sounds like a huge and amazing accomplishment. So, congratulations!


Enjoy the mini slideshow below and the full version here.

Discount for FunFest

I just received an email about a great discount on tickets for Saturday's FunFest.

Use the coupon code "NEWSLETTER" and pay only $7.50 for each ticket ($10 regular price and on the day of the event). Click here to purchase your tickets now.

Am I looking out for you or what?!

Kids' FunFest this Saturday

FUNFEST 2008!

This Saturday I'm participating in a festival celebrating kids and healthy living.

Join me for a great afternoon at
The Frazier Center
Saturday, June 14
12pm - 6pm.

Visit the Children's Wellness Network website
for more information and purchase your tickets here.
Kids are FREE!

Activities include:
Puppet-making with The Center for Puppetry Arts
Bird Show
Belly dancing
Cooking
Yoga
and a Documentary Film by Two Angry Moms about improving school lunches

Some of the sponsors and other businesses involved include Sevananda, Flying Biscuit, Get Outdoors America, REI, and Captain Planet.

The event is located at TheFrazier Center
1815 Ponce de Leon Avenue
Atlanta, GA 30307
Between Virginia-Highland and Decatur
Get Directions

Hope to see you there!

Ryen at the Park

The last time I photographed Ryen was September. When I met her, her parents and grandparents at Peachtree Heights Park in Buckhead last weekend, I couldn't get over how much she has grown in just 9 months. She has become a beautiful little girl and I just loved capturing her laughter.

She had me laughing when her dad handed her some bread to feed the geese and instead popped the bread into her mouth. But she learned that the geese would like some too and did offer them some of the yummy bread.

I was feeling that some retro & antique effects would enhance this series of images. And l love how they turned out.

Enjoy the min-slideshow below or the full size here.

June 1, 2003 - Day 0

Sunday was a BIG DAY for me. It's hard to believe but Sunday, June 1st marked my FIVE YEAR ANNIVERSARY. It's been 5 years since I took the plunge and started Sara Speert Photography back in 2003. My memories of that day are somewhat vague but I do remember exactly how I felt that morning I woke up without a job to go to. Let me rephrase that, without a job to go to with someone else as boss. It was a REALLY exciting and invigorating moment because I had been unhappy with my full-time job for sometime, but it was also really scary. The thought of not receiving a bi-weekly paycheck was terrifying. But I guess not terrifying enough not to take the risk. I was definitely naive to the reality of what I was about to take on, and it's probably a good thing that I didn't know all that I was about to face because I may not have done it. Since then, I've realized that I have to think a while before making big decisions. the pros and cons, whether I can actually picture myself succeeding, blah blah blah. So I have a feeling I would have been swayed by the fear of the unknown and of failure, and never begun.

Good thing I didn't! The last five years have been amazing. I have learned so much about stretching myself artistically, technically and about how to better run my business. I have also learned a tremendous amount about myself, about balancing personal time and work, and how I handle stress. (And after 5 years, I can safely say that I have perfected all these things...... yeah, right.)

I have also learned how amazing the photographic community is. When I first started pursuing my then hobby for photography, I found that there were a handful of pros in the Atlanta area who truly enjoyed sharing their experience and knowledge but overall, most kept things close to their chests. When I first moved to Atlanta and decided photography may be something I'd like to pursue, I opened the Yellow Pages to "photographers" and found an ad for a photographer in Roswell, GA. Little did I know that a simple cold-call to him would open up a world of opportunity and a chain of events and decisions that have led me here. John Haigwood was so generous to open up his studio to me. He offered advice, his experience and opened his darkroom to me so that I could work on my technique and art. At the time, he was still operating from the basement of his home and his wife and kids were so great to me.

I remember John's daughter was having a birthday party at their home and John asked if I'd like to come by to take some pictures and play with some of his amazing lenses. I took a photograph then with the first wide-angle lens I'd ever used of his daughter enjoying her cake with a flurry of kids and families around her all there to celebrate her birthday. It is still one of my favorite images for the moment it captured and how the angles of the ceiling "point" at my adorable subject.

Early images like this one convinced me that photography was not only something I enjoyed, but it was something I did well and really could be a career. Thanks to John for his vote of confidence in my talent and perseverance and to the countless other photographers and family and friends who have shared ideas with me and taught me so much.

Here's to 5 more!

Flick-on-the-Deck

The newest reason why Nick and I love our new house. OUTDOOR MOVIE THEATER!

After having some friends over for a Memorial Day grill-out, we decided we wanted to watch a movie. Not an unusual occurrence in our house, but I came up with the idea of projecting the movie onto the side of the house so we could continue to enjoy the beautiful evening. And of course, we had to choose a scary movie. So, Nick set up the stereo so that we could hear each little detail of frightening suspense as we huddled together for What Lies Beneath. (Harrison Ford plays the villain for once.) With every little noise in the bamboo next to us, I jumped. :)

Here are some pictures of what will definitely become a monthly tradition. Now we just have to figure out how we can fit more people on the deck to watch the next flick with us.

The deck is wrapped by our house on three sides and bamboo on the fourth so it's a really great space for watching movies without bothering all the neighbors.

The lovely bamboo. :)

Personalized Father's Day Gifts

Can you believe how quickly Father's Day is going to be here? June 15th is right around the corner. If thoughts of boring ties and impersonal electronics don't do it for you, may I suggest something that he'll not only use but cherish?

We have some fantastic personalized Father's Day gifts. These items are ONLY available for Father's Day.

Willard Keychain - $60, This leather and pewter keychain is simple and fun. And the best part is that he'll be reminded of his favorite people each time he uses his keys.

Thomas Wallett - $85, The modern design of this leather wallet leaves ample room for credit cards, while cash is safely tucked away under a sturdy magnetic clip.

Use pictures of the kids, the family pet or the whole family to personalize these great gifts. Order by June 4th to receive it in time for Dad's Day or add it to any of our Portrait Packages by June 15th.

Client Designs

This week I've been busy working on collages and albums for some of my fantastic Growing Baby Portrait Package clients. It's been so fun to watch William and Patrick grow over the last year. One of my favorite moments is walking into my clients' homes on the 2nd and 3rd visits and see how much he has grown. It's so fun to see which features and personality traits remain and which ones adapt and change as the little baby grows into a child.

Here's William's 9-image collage.

And Patrick is getting our newest album - the Carry-About Album. I actually used pictures from Patrick's 2nd portrait for the studio sample and what mother could say no to this adorable album?! Patrick's mom opted for the 5x5 album with leather cover. Check out the entire design by clicking the image below.

Have a great holiday weekend! Yay, BBQ time and beautiful weather!

Elijah and the parade

At Elijah's portrait I experienced a FIRST. Soon after we arrived at the historic Grant Park we heard a marching band in the distance. It was the 125th anniversary celebration for the park and we got a treat when the parade marched right past us. Of all the times I've photographed portraits in parks, this was a first and I loved it! It added to the photojournalistic style of the portrait session with such exciting activity going on.

After the fun time at the park, we headed back to the house. Elijah had a great time swinging on his swing on the front porch and playing on mom and dad's bed.

Thanks for a fun morning! View the full size slideshow here or view the mini version below.

New Sample Album!

It finally arrived! The new 3x3 Carry-about Album and it is so CUTE!!! Yes, you read right....3x3 inches. It's perfect for carrying around with you and bragging to everyone you know (and don't know) how cute your kids are or how beautiful the wedding was.


This sample album was all about Patrick. This adorable 1 year old had fun riding his tricycle and playing all over the house on the day of my second portrait with him. The full-bleed images, hard-backed pages and leather cover make this a great add-on to any of our packages.

Also available in 5x5 and 10-20 pages.

Feel the Joy

I met Avery and her parents in Spring 2005. Avery was just 6 months old and mom and dad couldn't have been happier to have her home. They adopted little Avery from Guatemala and although I know I'm biased, she is just so much fun! Throughout the last 3 years I've had the pleasure to watch her grow from the little munchkin who sat on the bay window chair with the infectious smile to her latest love - being a ballerina.

This portrait session was an especially meaningful one because Avery has a new sister and a new brother. Lucy and Jack were also adopted from Guatemala and in fact Jack had been home for only three weeks. This is such a special time for this family and it was really a great honor to document it at their home. What I love about these images is that you can feel the joy in this family with their hugs, their laughter and simply watching the kids play. Kelly and Chris's love is boundless and has created a warm home where all three kids will grow and flourish. And I couldn't be happier for you!

Thanks again! Here's the full size slideshow and the mini-show below.

Our Engagement Session

So, we've officially started the countdown to the wedding in October. When Nick reminded me that we have five months to the wedding, I couldn't believe it. I still can't believe it. I have so much to do!! And I am so excited!

A couple weeks ago we felt like a real engaged couple when Chris and Katie met us to photograph an engagement portrait session. Wow, was it weird to be in front of the camera! I had to keep telling myself to "live in the moment" with Nick instead of thinking of what the images were going to look like or what I would be shooting. I had to step back from my creative side to just BE, what a weird concept...

Choosing our photographers was a really tough decision, as you can imagine. I'm a little picky when it comes to this stuff! But we are so excited with the images they captured. We went to Atlantic Station, where Nick proposed on one foggy December night and then to Piedmont Park, one of our favorite outdoor spots in Atlanta.

Below are some of my favorites. And check out the slideshow here.

Dancing in the park.

Love this one - this is Nick's engagement ring. Yes, he has one! I think it is only fair that guys get a ring too. I mean, marriage is supposed to be an equal partnership so why don't they get rings?

One of the many laughing kisses. I think by this point we were just feeling so funny kissing-on-demand that we couldn't contain ourselves.

I'm planning to put together a sign-in book for the wedding with the images from our session. If it works, I may start offering it to my own clients... Love how my experience through this whole process is helping my wedding photography business. Can't wait for wedding pictures! Thanks, Chris and Katie!

Performer Mag Loves My Fiance'

Today, Nick received an amazing review of his latest blues-rock CD (online release only) "Live in 2007." It's a compilation of live performances while he was on tour last year including an on-air performance on WUGA in Athens. Performer Magazine LOVED HIM! I am so excited for him that I just have to post the review here to share the news.

Athens music native Nick Edelstein takes the listeners on a terrific ride through the world of blues with an online release of live recordings held in venues throughout the Southeast.

A record chocked full of strong blues material, including classic blues standards such as “Crossroads,” “Stormy Monday” and “Hound Dog,” the artist’s handywork on lead guitar is impeccably precise, as each live song spills with fervent balance, delivering
punchy lead solos galore.

Edelstein also shows his intimate and personal side with soft-spoken material, on endearing works such as originals, “Sign from Above,” flawlessly recorded at Athens radio station, WUGA-FM, and “Ripple,” recorded at a bar in Charlotte, N.C.Although much of the live recordings are very murky and muddy, what is most important is Edelstein’s craftsmanship on blues guitar. “Crossroads” churns the album from the start, launching the album’s fiery energy and tenacity from the get-go.

Edelstein is sloppy in some places on his lead guitar improvisation, yet only true guitarists know, and not the audience. Certainly a highlight displaying his most superior guitar work falls in the intro and throughout “Red House,” a dazzling, mesmerizing statement of guitar-driven blues-rock.

Much of the record has some breathtaking guitar work, and his voice suits the blues man, with performances of liquid gold, compared to the swift speed of a dozen horses at Churchhill Downs, as notes flourish like a roaring freight train.

Though he has much room to grow and improve, his potential is boundless. He even throws in some great riffs and chops that speak of his influences, possibly reminiscing Eric Clapton, Eric Johnson and Stevie Ray Vaughn. Santana’s artistry comes to fruition in a frighteningly well-spoken version of “Europa.”

It’s good to hear much of Edelstein’s background through short bits of interviews on WUGA-FM, as he dwells into his work, and his further studies in comparative literature. (NESS Records) www.nickedelstein.com

-Shawn M. Haney, www.performermag.com

How cool is that!? I swear he didn't pay for that! :) Performer Magazine is one of the industry's top trade magazines so it's huge that they love him that much.

Check him out at his website - www.nickedelstein.com - (photos complements of yours truly) or download the CD at www.discrevolt.com. His CD is featured this week on the home page of the site, so you can't miss it.

Some Puppy Love

At Carter's baby portrait a couple weeks ago, I was reminded of one of my favorite things to photograph. Adorable pets! I met his adorable dog, Hero, (love that name....when does Heroes come back on anyway?) and felt the NEED to photograph his adorable face. These are some of my favorites...

Doggy nose!

Have a great rest of the week and weekend! I am headed home to Baltimore, MD for my bridal shower! Can't believe it's already here but then again it has been 18 months since we got engaged. :)

The Traveling Wedding Album

I heard from Courtney and Michael after they received their wedding album a couple weeks ago. Their destination wedding in St. Augustine, Florida was so beautiful and fun. I am so flattered by Michael's comments about the album that I wanted to share his thoughts with you, my wonderful blog-readers.

Courtney let me (yes, I had to get permission to take it away from her!) take it to work, daycare, the bank, post office, Zaxby's, the UPS Store, Shane's Rib Shack, and a few other places where people know me on a first name basis yesterday...everyone LOVED it! I really am still in shock over how you were able to capture each and every feeling and moment that we had that day/night!

How cool is it that he took it everywhere. I bet the UPS Store employees were ready to pack it up and ship it for him when he walked in!

It seriously makes my day to hear such great feedback from clients after all the work and love I put into their photographs and their album. So thank you, Michael and Courtney, for the awesome feedback!

View their wedding album here.

William's Third Portrait

It's hard to believe that it's been a year since I started photographing William and his parents. This third portrait was just days after they celebrated his first birthday. (Thanks for the jelly beans party favor!) This summer William will have a new brother or sister which is really exciting. And I am thrilled to continue documenting this beautiful family.

During the session, it was great to see the canvases and framed enlargements from previous portraits around the house. And the best part was watching William point at himself in the pictures and smile.


Click here to see the full size slideshow or view the small version below.

Love the slideshow? It's available on DVD or in digital download for your video IPod. Simply click the CD icon in the menu bar of the show.

Accolades from unexpected places

You know when you receive a complement from anyone it can change an average day to amazing. " You look beautiful," or "Nice job on that presentation" can often give you the boost you didn't even know you needed. But complements from complete strangers has that unbiased ounce of awesomeness (is that even a word?!)

I received an email from a photography hobbyist in Florida recently. He claimed that he googled "World's Best Photographer" and found my site listed second. (Yeah!) After looking through my website, www.saraphotography.com, he sent a message to say hello and ask for some advice on purchasing some new camera equipment. As I read his entire email I was blown away by his words...

"I hope you don't mind, but I rank your shots right up there with Joe Buissink." - David Shaw

Wow, what a huge complement! If you don't know who Joe Buissink is, you have probably seen his images. Take a look at his website. He has photographed some of the biggest celebrity weddings all over the world, including J. Lo., Kelsey Grammer and Christina Aguilera, but more than that, his work is so powerful. He's able to truly capture the essence of the people he photographs.

I recently heard him speak at WPPI (Wedding and Portrait Photographers International Annual Conference) and I was amazed that although I hadn't ever heard him speak before, that he described his photography exactly the way I describe mine. In fact, he used many of the same phrases. Capturing the essence of personalities .... capturing moments that many would simply not notice .... capturing moments that bring my clients right back to the moment, not just the event, but exactly what they were feeling at that moment.

Joe has been in the business for years and has accomplished so much. For my work to be compared to his work is a real honor. So, thank you David! You made my YEAR!

Big News - Part Arbah (that's Hebrew for FOUR) in honor of Passover starting this weekend

We've had an exciting Spring! Throughout the last three weeks, we've announced some of our new additions for 2008 - a new line of Sterling Silver Photo Jewelry, New Portrait Packages and a new Bonus Gift Program. This week, new options in papers for wall art.

Wall Art from Photography

We have carried Matte finish paper for a long time for it's low sheen and durability.

Fine Art Canvas has been one of our most popular items and now we offer it as gallery wrap or ready for framing traditionally in wood or metal. With the images printed directly to the canvas, your images become a bold work of art.


The third option is Watercolor paper. Similar to painting paper, watercolor is textured cotton rag matte paper. Opt to have the Watercolor paper edges hand-torn for a soft look.

And finally, our most unique paper is Metallic. It is iridescent glossy paper with a surprising 3D effect. You'll be amazed when you see the detail pop off the paper.


If you'd like to learn more about these papers or receive samples, give us a call at 404-966-7272 or shoot us an email. sara@saraphotography.com


Happy Passover! Mmmm, matzah time!

Baby Carter

Last weekend I had the pleasure to meet some awesome Decatur neighbors. Amy, Jonathan and baby Carter live just on the other side of town, only a 5 minute drive! (That was a nice change of pace from most of my portraits on the north side of Atlanta - Smyrna, Vinings, Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Marietta, Duluth, etc.) Carter is 7 months old and is so adorable. This was the first session of his year-long Growing Baby Package and it's always so fun on the first visit to my clients' homes to learn what life is like there.

We had planned my arrival during the end of Carter's nap so that I could photograph him sleeping in the nursery, then off to play in the front room and read books together, then to the backyard to enjoy the new deck! Their dog, Hero, was definitely feeling the change in attention. Amy said that he used to be the center of attention in their house and now that Carter's here, he's definitely feeling ignored. Being the animal lover that I am, I just had to make him feel special too! It's amazing how much you can feel just by looking into his eyes.

Carter has the cutest smile. When his daddy kisses his cheek, his entire face smiles. You'll know what I mean when you see the slideshow below. Click here to view the full size slideshow or watch the mini-show below.

Some of my favorite images - those kisses from dad, nursing with mom (for mom and dad's eyes only), and mom and dad's laughter as they read That's Not My Puppy for the millionth time.

Big News - Part Trois

Do you work to live or live to work? It's a cliché but a great question. With so many of us bogged down every week with more things than we can handle and the stress to go along with it, our portrait photography offers a reminder. Our families mean the world to us and having sentimental, genuine and artistic portraits of them at home and in the office will remind you everyday of what's most important. We are honored that you trust us with the great responsibility of documenting your family year after year. So, we'd like to thank you!

The Bonus Gift Program rewards you for investing in your family’s visual history. Receive fantastic bonus gifts at different levels of purchase. Gifts include DVD slideshows, jewelry, note cards, brag books and albums. As if free stuff isn't awesome enough, you can also receive a discount on your holiday cards order. It's our way of saying thanks.

Only one week left to save on Mother's Day sterling silver photo jewelry! Save 15% on these beautiful pieces of personalized wearable art.

Contact the studio for more information.

Patrick's 3rd Portrait

Since I started photographing Patrick a year ago, with the Growing Baby Portrait Package, he has grown a lot. Take a look at his first and second slideshows. I can't believe how much he looks like a little man now! After about 15 minutes of unusual quiet, Patrick became his usual playful self. We played throughout the whole house, including golf in the backyard, so it was an active morning. Aside from some beautiful close-up portraits of Patrick, I think my favorite image is of Patrick standing with one hand on his hip and the other holding a bag of Goldfish crackers. His adorable attitude made me laugh at that moment and each time I see the image.

In the after-processing stages, I added some fine art textural effects to some of the images of Patrick and I love how they turned out. It adds something antique and rustic to these emotion-filled images. These type of effects can be added to any image and look especially great on our fine art canvas pieces, watercolor paper and in our custom-designed albums.

Click here to see the full size slideshow or view the mini-version below.

Big News - Part II (that's 2 for those of you that don't read Roman)

If you are on our e-newsletter mailing list, you already know the news (hint, hint, time to join! Sign up for e-newsletters).

Over the past 5 years, (wow, are we grateful for 5 whole years!), we've had some fantastic clients who enlightened us about what is most important when it comes to photography of their families. Capturing the moments that have the ability to express a child's personality or the love a father has for a newborn are what it's all about. But what do you do with all these great images? That repeated question led us to restructure our portrait packages to include our most popular items and some of our new products as well.

The goal is to offer the same high quality images & fantastic customer service without confusing you with all the available products.

So, we now offer a choice of 5 portrait packages for single sessions and 3 packages for growing babies, and annual kids and family portrait. With names like "The Brag to the Grandparents" Portrait Package and "The Growing Baby Bling! Package," you are guaranteed A LOT of FUN and beautiful displays of your portraits that you can enjoy every day!

The Portrait Menu (our package price list) is now available here. You must have the password to open the document.... So contact us by email - sara (at) saraphotography.com to receive the password.

In other news...

Your response to the sterling silver photo jewelry was fantastic! Thanks for all your emails and calls. In preparation of Mother's Day which is right around the corner, May11th

All jewelry is now 15% off!

Order by Friday, April 18th to receive the discount. Talk about a great idea for Mom's Day. Necklaces, bracelets, belt buckles and cell phone charms will become instant family heirlooms with photographs from your family's portrait. Regular prices range from $30 to $400 so they're perfect for every budget.

Contact us by email [sara (at) saraphotography.com] or phone [404-966-SARA] to order.

Big News - Part 1

Announcing
New Portrait Packages for babies, kids and families
New Products that will wow you
and a fantastic Bonus Program that rewards your investment in your family's visual history

We'll be announcing all the details throughout the next 4 weeks, so join our e-newsletter list for all the specifics. The link is on the right side of this page.

-----------------------------------

The item we must mention first is a product we are so excited about, we can hardly stand it. This is really the most excited I've ever been about a new product!

We are now offering Sterling Silver Photo Jewelry. And the pieces are so gorgeous and unique that you'll find yourself constantly responding "Thank you!" to all the compliments.


Plus they make wonderful gifts for everyone. With Mother's and Father's Days right around the corner, they make the perfect "no-brainer" gift. Many of these are included in our new portrait packages and the Bonus Program, too! (More info about that in the weeks to come.)

Bracelets, necklaces, cell phone charms, belt buckles and wine bottle charms.

Leave a message in the comments section at the end of this post if you'd like to stop by to see them. You can also view the Products section of our website for more details.


More news soon.... Have a great weekend!

Big News Tomorrow

Tomorrow is going to be a BIG day! We will be releasing new Portrait Packages and a new Gift Shop Catalog. It's big news that we're really excited about because as we approach our 5th year anniversary, it's great to stir things up a bit and add some products that we know our clients are going to LOVE!

Join our family and receive this information through our e-newsletter by clicking this link.


Stay Tuned!

Las Vegas - continued

My last post must have left you hanging for all the details! :) so here they are. I attended Wedding and Portrait Photographers International annual conference and trade show in Las Vegas last week and it was amazing. It's the first time I've attended this event although I've been to other photography conventions, like the Professional Photographer's of America, in Las Vegas three summers ago. I must be honest that I really don't like Las Vegas. I'm not a gambler and all the artificial details, smoking everywhere, and the sheer size of the place makes me really uncomfortable. But this convention was jam packed with seminars and the trade show from 8am to 9pm so I really didn't have time to even think about it. Plus staying at Paris Las Vegas did help a ton. I love it there. So quaint and awesome crepes and sweets.


Basically the convention is a great opportunity to learn all that you'd expect: new gear, new ways to approach my business and new products. But I was surprised to find that I was also really inspired by some of the photographers' seminars to do more and stretch myself as an artist. Jesh de Rox presented a unique and inspiring seminar about creating the best self we can and improving our interactions with those around us. He implored us to stop having superficial conversations and make more of the moments we have with everyone around us. As photographers, we must strive to find the amazing characteristics of each of our clients and explore those with our images. Imagine finding the good in everyone around us. The world would be a better place for everyone. He urged us to think that the world is on the verge of a significant change if everyone could engage in finding the best in others and honoring that. Pretty substantial and moving stuff.


Jerry Ghionis presented his work and the way he approaches each wedding he photographs. He has an amazing ability to take ordinary scenes and make the extraordinary. Sometimes we don't have the most stunning rooms to work with as on-location photographers, but Jerry has been able to use things like fans, glass sculptures and reflections to create gorgeous images that transcend the room in which they were taken. Truly inspiring...


I went to Vegas without my pro camera on purpose. I know! Crazy to attend an event like this without it. But I felt that I wanted to focus on learning, meeting new people and improving myself and my business and not focus so much on the actual photography. I don't know if that makes sense... Anyway, I did bring along Nick's point-and-shoot camera just to take some snapshots here and there. After Jerry's seminar, in particular, I was inspired to get creative. I found it pretty difficult with a camera that I couldn't control very well (no manual mode or ability to change things up) but I did have a great time playing.


In addition to all the great information, a ton of new products I wanted to buy and being inspired by some fantastic photographers, I had the opportunity to hang out with some friends and meet new ones. While I don't have a picture, spending time with Ernie and Chris Russell was great. Ernie made me laugh even when I was feeling so sick. (A nasty cold hit me the day I flew out and stayed with me through the whole week. Fun stuff!)


Dinner at Mon Ami Gabi at Paris Las Vegas. Katie and Chris Torres (6 of Four Creations), Amanda and Nate Reynolds (Turtle Pond Photography), Megan Resch (thanks for the picture!), Shelly Valentine Photography, Jerrod Brown Photography, Regis Photography, Sticky (Brandy J Photography), Jen Odom, Garrett Nudd Photography.


And here's another of Jen Odom and me. Although I've met Jen a bunch of times, this was the first time we got to hang out a bit. Since our significant others couldn't make the trip, she was my date! :)

Also had a great time hanging out with Lacour and the Shoot Q group. Rachel, Andrew, Mark, Erin, Jen, Adam and Will. This pic is Lacour's from their blog.


Hope to see all you soon!

Now back to work.....

What Happens in Vegas...

Sitting on the tarmac, I am waiting for my flight back to Hotlanta from Vegas. I had an unbelievable time here at WPPI. I learned so much, met so many great photographers; I laughed, I cried but most of all I am completely re-inspired to create better art than I ever have. I actually feel like I have grown quite a bit throughout the last 5 days. It amazing to me how generous the community of photographers is. I'll go into more depth in my next post and be sure to include some photos.

I can't wait to get "re-started!"

Mandi & Mark - March 1, 2008

Last Saturday was Mandi & Mark's wedding at The Renaissance Waverly hotel. They are such a cute couple and we had a fantastic time photographing their beautifully simple and elegant wedding. I had the pleasure to photograph the day with my friend, Matt Yung. So fun to work with photographer friends. I just love seeing how we can be in the same place at the same time but capture the moment completely differently.

Matt helped me break a personal record for the number lights we used at the reception. We had 1 on each of our cameras and 5 set up around the room on stands. Wow! Toward the end of the night I realized that the light by Gale, the DJ, was so blinding to him and Margie that they were seeing spots all night. Ok, I didn't exactly "realize;" it was more like Margie "pointed it out to me." Sorry, you guys! Just trying to light up a really dark room. I think the results of all those flashes were worth it.

One of the reasons why I love photographing Jewish weddings like Mandi and Mark's is all the rituals that are repeated from generation to generation. For one, Mark wore his father's tallis (prayer shawl) and they used Mandi's parents rings during the ring ceremony. (There is a Jewish tradition that the wedding rings must be a continuous piece of precious metal without any stones or adornments to symbolize the continuity of their marriage and their commitment to one another.) I love that they used these items to include their families in the ceremony of the wedding.

When we went off to photograph Mandi and Mark's wedding portraits after the ceremony, I was excited to use the grand architecture of the huge atrium and wide open marble floor for some beautiful portraits, BUT we were disappointed to find about 150 people mingling around the hotel bar and tables covering the entire wide open space. Oh well! Plan B it is.... Thanks to the hotel staff, we were able to use the check-in desk for some fun shots. I love the one that Matt caught of the hotel guest completely oblivious to what was going on just 5 feet from him! And we had a great time in the glass elevator too. Thankfully none of us got sick riding up and down.

Check out the Sneak Peak slideshow below. To see it full size Click Here.

Venue: Jill Kantor, Renaissance Waverly
Coordinator: Margie Sikes, Affairs of Elegance
Flowers: Rich Larson, Creative Events by Sunflowers
Ceremony Harpist: Julie Albertson
DJ: Gale Fulton, Grand Affairs

New Stuff

So it's 2008 and in June we will be celebrating a whole 5 YEARS IN BUSINESS! Still crazy to me that I get to do what I love for a living. I am so lucky to have met so many fantastic families throughout the last few years and to be invited into their homes and their lives to capture a short moment that will now live forever. I especially love following a family as it grows and changes. Being a family's OFFICIAL photographer for every life event, big accomplishments and small, is a huge honor that we don't take lightly.

In our 5 years of business, we've learned a lot about what our clients want and need from their photographer. So, at the end of March, we'll be releasing some new products, new enlargement packages, offering new papers and even a bonus program. If you'd like to be informed of the news as soon as its released, sign up for our newsletter to the right. And if you planned to purchase something from us and life has gotten in the way, be sure to contact us soon to place that order from our "old" price list.

Stay tuned!

My Rock Star Fiance

Nick going to be on the radio this afternoon! Yeah, really!

He's doing an in-studio performance and interview on WUGA. Check him out with his band on http://www.uga.edu/wuga/. Listen live at 4pm to the "It's Friday!" show.

Visit his websites for more music, downloads, and merchandise (....and GREAT photos of live shows and press images.)

www.nickedelstein.com
www.myspace.com/nickedelstein
Itunes

Playing with Light

Throughout the last week, I've been experimenting with ways that light can completely change the mood of an image. Ben Vigil and I had a great time playing with silhouettes. Check out these cool shots I took of him.

Rockin' the halo...

Ben's new baby - the new Nikon D3. I can't believe he's such a traitor!
I thought us Canon people stuck together! :)

Matt Yung and I are shooting Mandi and Mark's wedding this weekend. We had a little "scout-out" meeting at the venue and decided to play a bit with the glass elevators.

Love the melting atrium...

Excited to do some more playing - I'm such a kid sometimes.

Band Shots

The second band that Nick's in (other than the Nick Edelstein Band) is The Moody Jews. Last weekend I photographed some band photos for their press kit, website, Myspace page and more. It was fun to get together with this crew of guys. I have to thank them again and again for asking Nick to be in the band three years ago. It was after a show with them that Nick and I met at an outdoor festival, The Atlanta Jewish Festival. Without that show, I don't think our paths would have crossed. Amazing what how a short moment can change your life forever.

Anyway, here's the band. They play Jewish rock putting a twist on traditional Jewish prayers.

Steve, Nick, Andy, Dan, Al and Scott

They play next on March 30th. Check out their Myspace page for details.

Fool's Gold and The Crimson Moon

Stopping the work clock and taking a night off is often difficult for me. But I've been making a much stronger effort since my birthday. (Nothing like a birthday to remind me of what is really important to me) In fact, I worked out four times this week. Yay, me! I even made it to yoga on Wednesday. So, Nick and I planned a date on Friday night. Sushi and Fool's Gold, the movie with Matthew McConaughey and Kate Hudson. Yes, I got my way and dragged Nick to a chick flick. :) Fun movie... If you are looking for an escape of a movie with no serious undertone or politics, I recommend it. Saturday, Nick played at Crimson Moon in Dahlonega for a third time. This place is amazing for live music. Really fun and friendly staff, great vibe and amazing musicians. (I must say!) I was excited to see that one of my favorite artists, Lucy Kaplansky, is playing there in two weeks. So cool that Nick played the same stage as so many greats. Today, I spent most of the day having a typical Sunday. As my only day off during the week, I usually find myself cleaning the house. I had ITunes cranking and the windows open and danced through the house while I cleaned. Cleaning isn't so bad when accompanied by Michael Buble.

Let the Celebration Begin...

The wedding celebration has begun! Our engagement party was on Saturday and it was so fun to hang out with our friends and parents. Our amazing friends, Arrie and Dan, threw the party for us at Java Vino in Virginia-Highlands. It's a wonderful family-run place offering up fantastic wine, delicious home-made desserts and coffee that was grown on their family farm in Nicaragua. They have a wonderful private party space on the third floor of this renovated home. It was the perfect place for our casual and "homey" gathering. Wine, cheese, chocolate and friends... our favorite things. With all the chaos of our kitchen remodel, planning the wedding and our businesses, we haven't seen much of our friends recently. So it was especially nice to toast a glass with everyone.

My mom played photographer for the night with her point-and-shoot camera.

Nick and me

Jen Goldin and Arrie Sherr

Chef Hilly Blondheim, Nick, Michele Blondheim, Heather Trell and Todd Shlesinger


Dad and me

Nina Edelstein (Nick's mom), Dave Dunay, Larry Bowie and Lizette Dunay


Dan Schlossberg, me and Jenni Taussig

You guys are the best! Thanks for partying with us and can't wait to party again in October.

Moms and Daughters

Sarah contacted me a few weeks ago. She said that she would like a portrait with her 16 year old daughter to capture this moment in their relationship. She described their relationship so eloquently - "intensely raw - at times we are ready to kill each other and at times we are best friends." For all parents of teenagers reading this, you completely understand that contradiction. No explanation needed, right?!

In addition to Sarah and her daughter, Sarah's dad and sister joined in the session. It was so enjoyable to photograph this family. Since the majority of portraits I photograph are of little ones, under 5 years old, it was a inspiring change of pace to spend some time with them. It became clear that they are an extremely close family so it was meaningful to capture that intimacy for them.

Here's your slideshow!

Boutique Children's Clothing Sale - Super Deals!

I just received an email invitation that I thought you fashionable mommies might be interested in. The Works is holding their Children's Boutique Clothing Sale at the end of February. Some of the fantastic local boutique stores get together a few times a year for this unbelievable sale. Up to 70% off retail prices! Click here for full details. Pick up some new clothes for your little ones and contact us to schedule a portrait in the new clothes! :)

What: Children's Boutique Clothing Sale
Dates: February 22-23, 2008
Times: Friday 10-5, Saturday 10-5
Locations: World of Rugs - 1510 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd.

Participating Stores:

Baby Cakes

Pink Lemonade

Addy’s Closet

BailaB

Florence Eiseman

Sugar Plum Kids

Small concept

Limetree/Little Squeeze

Jack and Grace

Kangaroo Pouch

Cutie Pies

Divine Consign Show

Marshmallows in the Closet

Victoria’s Children’s Boutique

Isabel Greika

Monkee Moos

Kate and Libby

The Wholesale Boutique
Admission: $5 (Portion goes to CARE)

Happy shopping!

A Family Gathering

The Pollard's had a family reunion of sorts this past week. With work and school schedules you know how difficult it is for large families, especially when they're spread across the country, to get together on a regular basis. So, Nancy, mom and grandmom, contacted me to come to the house to capture this rare time. In addition to getting everyone together, they were also celebrating the birth of the newest member of the family, Hayes. Hayes is only 7 days old and is immensely loved by this large family. The house was bustling with excitement and energy so it was great to capture some natural and candid portraits of the kids, as well as more posed group pictures.

Thanks again, Pollards! Here is your slideshow.

Jayden's First Portrait

On Saturday, I met Jayden and his parents Kelli and Jason. It was a perfect occasion to photograph Jayden because his grandmothers, Nadine and Martha, were visiting from out of town. He is only 7 weeks old and so adorable. As our session wore on, Jayden got so sleepy, he managed to fall asleep while we continued to photograph him. His handmade crib (the handiwork of Jason) is a beautiful and cozy space for little Jayden.

It is always such a pleasure to photograph growing families and capture moments like doting grandmothers and kisses from everyone. I hope that I was able to capture the laughter, smiles and love that this family is radiating.

Thanks again Kelli and Jason! Here's your slideshow.

A Wrench in my Plan

Nothing like car trouble to put a wrench in things. I was on my way to witness a Bris for my friends' brand new baby boy, when I turned the key in the car and ....... nothing. Dead battery. Totally sucks because I missed Rachel's baby shower in December and I was so excited to celebrate with them. Ok, so I admit it, it was my fault. I arrived home last night after a frustrating trip to the post office. (Two lost packages that were delivered to the post office but never to my box.) After I pulled in the driveway, I turned off the engine and pulled out my trusty mileage journal to make a new note. I turned on the dome light in the car to write my entry and forgot to turn it off. Never looking at the car again the whole night, I only realized my error when I hopped in this AM to only hear clicking when the key turned. I think it's time to call the tow truck again and see what's taking so long. I got celebrating to do!