The Season

At the start to the Christmas season, we are excited, giddy for the things that lead up to Christmas. Our minds are full of happy Christmas music, wrapping beautiful gifts with bright bows, watching the snowflakes fall from the windows of our warm, cozy homes, and sitting, laughing with family while sipping hot chocolate. Eeeeeerrrrkkk.  That's how Christmas starts, but about mid way through the season we find ourselves rushing around town like wild turkey's trying to find last minute gifts for Grandma Mable or lil nephew Jacob all while trying to do the regular day to day living things. This season is especially fun for photographers. If you are a professional or aspiring photographer you know exactly what I am talking about. What I am beginning to understand is that when you have a plan, your business will run so much smoother during these insanely busy days, leaving more time for you to focus on your personal life and your family. So, where do you start? Well, I am about to give you all of the juicy details so that next Christmas you will be like Mary Poppins flying around on your umbrella, feeling like you are on top of the world, all while making your clients beaming with joy because of your outstanding work.

1. Create a deadline for sessions. My last session this season was December 3rd. It is best to choose toward the end of November, assuring you have time to give your session images the adequate time they need in editing, sharing/blogging and print in order to arrive by Christmas. Many clients want me to create Christmas cards for them or order our unique frames as gifts. In order to give them enough time to get their cards and send to their family, the session should be no later than mid November.
-Share your session details by FB, Blogs, or a mass email to your client email list-hopefully, you have this already in a group in your email.

2. Create several Christmas card options for your clients, preferable 5x7 in size, 5x5 cards can require more postage. Start early by creating several different formats of cards. Creating psd templates can be extremely time consuming. By creating layers in photoshop, you can save yourself a lot of time when it comes to creating cards. Also, create layers for colors, giving yourself options when it comes to color choices on your cards. Not good in photoshop? Simply Couture has some great psd templates. http://www.simplycouturedesigns.com/shop/

3. Have packaging for your images ahead of time. This is VERY important. How will you present your clients with their images this Christmas? In professional packaging, that's how. Tissue paper, bows, portfolio holders or Christmas boxes are all great ways to make a lasting impression. I like to go the extra mile and have my logo printed on my packaging. Check with your local packaging store or Rice Studio is a personal favorite of mine. Don't forget about the extra large images some of your customers are going to be wanting.

4. Think about the New Year special you will run. Whether you offer a beginner class for new moms on how to work their fancy camera or run a January family session special, have an idea on marketing at the beginning of the new year. I will be offering a special on our unique frames.

5. Enjoy the holiday with your family!

Happy Holidays From the Stewart Family

Meet Gina, Adam and Adorable Baby Nolan! I truly enjoyed meeting this kind and genuine family for the first time. We started off with Nolan in his Santa hat indoors. In these poses, I was able to capture his incredibly beautiful blue eyes. He was such a happy baby, especially when his mommy and daddy were close by, making him laugh. Afterwards, Nolan wanted to take some pictures with his buddy, Empire, and another friend, made especially for him by his grandmother.

After the indoor session, we ventured to the outdoors to start the family session. Gina color coordinated the outfits perfectly with her baby blue scarf, Adam's blue shirt, and Baby Nolan's blue and brown checkered hat. I captured a lot of natural shots with this beautiful family. My goal was to capture their natural selves, where they felt the most comfortable. From my angle, I could see how easy it was for them to be simply happy. Adam & Gina, I hope you enjoy!

In the end...

I think that the quote above by Mother Teresa really says it all. There are definitely times in life where doing what feels the best at the moment may not be the "right" or "good" thing to do. Instead, let whatever it is go, and give the best you have. Forgive with no expectations, give without the applause, and live each day like it's your last. 

Spencer turns ONE!

Spencer did terrific for his one year old session! At the session, I got to know him and his favorite things. He enjoys cheerios, singing stuffed animals, balloons and CAKE! He was so excited to eat his own little smash cake for the first time! I really enjoyed taking this little guy's pictures and hope you enjoy his adorable slideshow.

Easton

"Those who are hardest to love...need it the most"

What a great photo and saying! A little love can go such a long way for those having a bad day. I am a strong believer in creating our own happiness and having a positive attitude, but I also know that sometimes it's not that easy. Sometimes, people don't know how great they truly are and it's important to let them know that they are loved and can succeed in whatever it is that they want to do. It amazes me how what we say and do on a daily basis can strongly effect people, whether it is positive or negative.

 I ran into a lady several months ago at a wedding I was shooting. I hadn't seen her in years. In fact, the last time I had seen her was in one of my yoga classes. It was one of the first classes I had instructed, which made it about 5+ years ago. We talked a bit and she was just as kind as I had remembered. She told me she was still practicing on her own and that she would never forget what I had said to her the first day she came into my yoga class. She said "I was nervous joining your already established class and after the class you came to me and said "I saw you moving through the poses and you are a natural. You did fabulous."" And, she was a natural, moving fluidly and peacefully through the poses. I was amazed that she had stored away my one little comment from 5+ years ago. The one little comment had stuck with her and effected her in a very positive way. Whether we know it or not, we have a huge effect on one another. Next time you have the chance, effect someone in a positive way. It can be as simply as a smile or a hug.

Christmas Countdown 2011 - Find out how many days until Christmas 2011

Christmas Countdown 2011 - Find out how many days until Christmas 2011

I love the festivities involved in Christmas. I love listening to Christmas music while decorating the tree, setting up the Nativity Scene, baking sweet chocolaty fudge at Grandma's house, and standing at the end of the driveway making the drumroll sound while my husband plugs in the Christmas lights for the first time (this is us reenacting Christmas Vacation). All of these little things bring me much happiness and I'm so very thankful for them! It's the little things that count right?

The magic that Christmas brings makes me smile. This holiday reminds me to believe! Believe in what? It reminds me to believe in miracles (now if you don't believe in miracles it's time you start-go here to start believing http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjTob53BElQ). It reminds me to believe in happiness, in goodness and giving. It reminds me that there is so much to this life, much more than what my mind can see. It reminds me to slow down and see what's truly important in life...the true meaning of Christmas and that is the incredible act of love. For me it is a majestic time to remember the birth of Christ and share the gift of giving.

What traditions do you have for Christmas?

Nikki & Nolan

Nikki & Nolan had a beautiful wedding and were wonderful to work with. The ceremony was decorated with lovely flower arrangements, including sunflowers.  I loved the eggplant color Nikki chose for her wedding party. It was perfect for bringing out a pop of color in her images, but still kept the softness. When Nikki entered through the church doors, she immediately locked eyes with her groom. Her eyes were sparkling as she walked to the alter to meet her husband to be. The couple stood strong, hand in hand, as they read their vows to each other. They said "I Do" and looked at each other for the first time as husband and wife.

When Nikki and Nolan exited the church their family and friends were waiting outside to congratulate them, including Nikki's grandpa with his  old, antique, red car. Thanks to Nikki & Nolan for letting me be part of your extra special wedding day! Click the comments button below to leave them a special comment!

Ready, Set, Actions!!

I am expanding! I have started creating my own templates and actions and am extremely excited to launch them at the beginning of the year for other professional and aspiring photographers. Although us photographers would like to spend the bulk of our time taking pictures and simply uploading, that is just not the case. Photographers spend 80% of their work time on the computer! We spend hours upon hours on editing in order to create the perfect image! We may work on things like enhanced lighting, skin retouching, eye sparkles, sun flares, color enhancements, resizing, watermarks, and so much more. Manually setting your camera to the correct settings in the beginning is crucial as well, but creating that perfect image involves retouching and enhancing.  Having a simple "go to" action can be a huge time saver when it comes to editing and that's why I'm creating them for YOU! You can look forward to a variety of actions, from basic to advanced, in the near future. I can't wait to share my new products with you! Look for the launch to begin January, 2012.

Season's Greetings from the Bowmaker Family

This family was so incredibly nice to work with. I honestly walked away feeling like a better person just from having the opportunity to work with them. They were kind and genuine to me and to each other. The children were playful and such good listeners and it was easy to see that they loved each other unconditionally. I wish them all the happiness in the world, although it seems to me they already have it!

Happy Holidays from Andrew, Melissa & Hunter

I've had the opportunity to photograph Hunter since he was a newborn. Now, he is 6 months old! It's so fun to compare children's last sessions and see how they are growing. He is such a happy little boy and has parents that absolutely adore him. Hunter looks like he could be on the cover of Parent's Magazine with his smooth and creamy skin and his beautiful blue eyes. I love some of the poses from the family in this session, so relaxed and playful, yet full of emotion and love. Don't forget the music for the full effect!

Family Full of Love

Angela and her boys were so easygoing. They were relaxed and full of smiles. I love that these boys had a clear bond of brotherly love. They were making each other giggle throughout the session. I could see that they love their mom unconditionally! They were always looking to her for guidance and wanted to be near her, whether that meant sitting on her lap, kissing her or giving her a big bear hug.

Baby Josie & Proud Big Brother Colt

This little lady was just seven days new when I had the opportunity to photograph her. She was born on Thursday, October 27th, and greeted by her proud mom, dad and big brother Colt. Once she got cozy, she was quite the poser. I especially love the ones of her smiling, what a sweetheart! Baby Josie will make you swoon. Enjoy!

Brittany

Wow! Brittany is an incredibly beautiful girl. Several times while editing her senior session, I had to take a step back, just to look at her gorgeous expressions. Her beauty inside more than matches her beauty on the outside. Her personality is extremely fun-loving and so very sweet. I imagine she has an array of people who love her kind soul and whom she will captivate with this video.
*click the rectangle in the lower right hand corner to see full screen mode and don't forget your sound.

Beau & Sophia

Beau and Sophia were so much fun and full of smiles. They kept me on my toes with their playful personalities which let me capture their true essence. They laughed, they played, they ran...they did all of the wonderful things kids do while I chased them with my camera:) Beautiful, beautiful children!

Notre Dame Pride

When this family showed up with their Notre Dame outfits, cowboy boots, and baby Uggs on, I was so excited to photograph them! They even brought a football for a little family football fun. The boys ran around on the football field with mommy while the girls were keeping warm with their daddy. After a few huddles and hikes prince charming took his princess off into the sunset and they lived "happily ever after."

1K Giveaway

We did it! We made it to 1,000 fans! Thank you so much to all of our fans for helping us reach this goal! The winners are announced below next to their prize. Contact the vendor in order to receive your prize. 

All winners must contact the vendor directly associated with their prize for information on receiving the item they win.  All decisions are FINAL. 



Here's are the AMAZING sponsors are winners! (item will be shipped directly to you for FREE. you must contact the vendor yourself to collect your winnings.)


1.   Stuff So Simple-Banner-Laura Dassance


















2. Lemonade Couture-Pink Peony Infant Hat-Dawn Parsons

3. Sariah Finn-Full Size Scentsy-Stephanie Heglan

4. Daisy Kay Boutique-Aqua Embellished Petti Lace Romper-Mrs Emory

5. A Lil Loopy-Rose Red Princess Hat (choose from 0-3 years)-Kelly Williams

6. Buggy Creations~Teddy Bear Beanie-Heather A Trujillo

 

7. KNP Actions~Eye Candy Action-Brandy Walker

8. Lemondrop Backdrops-$25.00 Gift Certificate-Lisa Sturgis

9. Country Bumpkin Photography~$25.00 Gift Certificate-Brenda Bennett

10. In-Over-Your-Head Boutique~2 Headbands-Courtney Kaloyanides

11. Popcorn Pixels~$50.00 Gift Certificate-Angie Alford

12. Horse-feather Gifts~Pink Crystal Swarovski Pendant-Mary Trimmer

13. Izzy Couture Designs-$25.00 Gift Certificate-Kathleen Price

14. Sew Whimsey-$25.00 Gift Certificate-Dolores Island

15. Aydens Treasure Trove-$10.00 Gift Certificate-Erin Noie

16. Yummy Designs-$15.00 Gift Certificate-Annie Jane

17. On The Spot Studio-35% Discount to store-Kindra Baron

18. Love That Crochet!-Kimberly Deegan

19. Designer Jules-Nursing Cover-Rebecka Lozano

20. Giggles and Love-$10.00 Gift Certificate-Danielle @MVP Artistry

Facebook rules:

You will not be notified publicly via Facebook if you are a winner. You MUST be 18 to participate. You MAY NOT reside in Belgium, Norway, Sweden, or India according to Facebook rules. International players may enter but may be responsible for the shipping in order to receive their prize. This promotion is in NO WAY sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook.

The Franklin Family Session

This is one of the nicest families I have met. Their session was relaxed, easy going and filled with smiles and laughter.
"Nobody cares if you can't dance well. Just get up and dance." Dave Berry

Jillian and Brad

A few words about the session: Jillian and Brad were full of personality, liveliness, happiness and love. The video captures it all!

Benny's Slideshow

Baby Benny's Session

Baby Benny made me swoon. What a sweetheart! He was snug as a bug from the moment he arrived for his session. I couldn't stop capturing this perfect little guy behind the lens. He has perfect eyes, perfect lips and a perfect little nose! It was so nice to meet little Benny.

Tis the Season...

Erin

Erin was oh so cute during her senior session. Every once in a while I would ask her for a serious shot (shmise is what my Goddaughter calls it-smiling with your eyes). Erin would giggle at me when I asked her this, which gave me the opportunity to capture her laughing. Her clothes were hip and her smile perfect! I can't wait to share her senior images with her. Until then, here's a little debut.

Children Shoot

These kids are stunning! Each of them has a special story to tell...

              

Koby Joseph, 5th grader~ The quiet thinker. He loves organization and trivia. On a rainy day you will find him putting together 1,000 piece puzzles! 

Kaden Allen, 4th grader~The life of the party. He enjoys sports and taking care of his little sis. He's a hard worker and likes to finish first. 

DeLaney LouAnn, 2nd grader~Her soul is as soft as the texture of her skin. Her smile is contagious and her style vibrant. She likes to wear her hair down, so that her playful side shines through. Her friends call her Laney.

Apparel: Dillards

Giveaway

Don't forget we are part of a giveaway tomorrow with Ayden's Treasure Trove on facebook. They will be having some major discounts, new items and incredible giveaway's. Stop in tomorrow for the fun.

Website Facelift is Complete!! Check it out www.brandyhensonphotography.com

Holiday Mini Sessions

Holiday mini sessions are in progress. It's not too early to start dreaming about your family holiday cards sitting on your friends' mantels. Our little elves are working away on organizing several holiday mini-sessions with beautiful holiday scenery. It only comes once a year so start planning what to wear for your holiday family session! Contact us to reserve your spot. They will go fast!

A New Life Is Here

Baby Coti

Born August 14, 2011

Stumbleupon

Stumbleupon is a unique website offering pages, videos, photos and more, all geared toward your likes and interests. Very cool!

www.stumbleupon.com

Sweet Baby Elizabeth Rose

Elizabeth Rose Lesher 

Born August 12, 2011.

Weighed 8 pounds 12 ounces

21 inches long

What should I wear??

It seems to be one of the most difficult decisions for me. What should I wear? I'm sure it is difficult for my clients preparing for a photo session, so I'm giving a little insight here. Don't forget to accessorize!

Logo

I have a NEW logo that is here to stay! I am so happy with it! Thanks to On The Spot Studio. Tiffany did a fabulous job.

Pricing Article

http://www.takeoffyourmommygoggles.com/consumers/about-pricing/

Coti's Shoot

Coti was such a beautiful little newborn to shoot. I can't wait to post some of the pictures I captured of her. Watching a newborn reminds me of how amazing life really is!

The latest

So, there always seem to be a project or work in progress. Here's the latest:

~Exclusive Premier Night with Dessert, which leads me to...
~Premier Night Dessert Menu
~New Collections and Session Pricing-the switch will take place September 1, 2011
~Website Facelift
~Logo is in the works! It needed a MAJOR facelift! Wahoo!
~Packaging, my, this took me a while, but I think I've finally figured it out! So long to paper sacks, hello to prestigious presentation packaging! Double wahoo!
~New baby props-So CUTE!
~Senior Mailing-Checkarooni!! This one is in the mail!
~Edits, orders, sessions, bridal consults and follow ups!

Senior Session

Premier Night!

We are so excited to be offering our clients our exclusive premier night! It's time to roll out the red carpet, sit back and relax while I do ALL the work! You will absolutely love premier night! Contact us for more information!

Special thanks to Leah Remillet at Go 4 Pro!

Referral Program In The Works

New Referral Program

New IPhone Cases Showcasing Your Favorite Image

Click on image to see enlarged

New Website Look

Our website is getting a facelift! Galleries will be will not be shown using flash player, thus making it easier to navigate. We are all about USER FRIENDLY. You are going to be thrilled with the new changes. Stay tuned for our newest website launch!

Pricing Alert

Session and collection/product pricing will increase September 1, 2011. We are completely revamping the products we offer and you are going to be WOWED by our collections!

Last Weekend in July

This past week has been productive, but I can't believe it's already the last weekend in July. You know what that means? Only one more month left of Summer. Don't miss out on some of my fave summer activities before it's too late.

~Stop the ice cream truck for an afternoon delight
~Put your toes in the sand
~Blow bubbles
~Star gaze
~Listen to some summer tunes ("If You Like Pina Colada" is one of my faves)

I will be combining some of my favorite summer activities tomorrow...swimming and photography. My lovely God-daughter will be having part II of her photo shoot at the river and then the pool. Stay tuned for some cool pool pics. We finished up Part I with some silver, sparkly stiletto's, skinny jeans, and an off the shoulder 80's top...epic outfit for an old-town shoot. I'd say we finished the week with a BANG. Have a great weekend and don't forget to make some time for a little R & R.

Mandy's Expecting!

Accomplishing Being Overwhelmed

watercolor by BeckyKazana

I came across this picture while being inspired by another photographer and felt a sense of accomplishment in myself and in my work over the past 14 months.  In the beginning year, I worked more hours than I ever had before and I felt overwhelmed. It seemed as if I had 35 plates spinning out of control and I just kept piling on more. I thought I needed more time...it was always more time. The truth is all I needed to do was adjust a few things and designate certain times to do certain jobs, rather than trying to do everything at once. I needed to slow down and relax. I thought that all of my plates always needed to be spinning perfectly as I stood well composed and balanced. I realized that wasn't reality, or if it was, it wasn't a reality that I wanted for myself. I think all businesses experience this feeling at the start of opening and finding a routine. It takes time to research, organize and act on your visions. Thankfully, I have made it through those beginning plate spinning stages and now have those plates nicely stacked away. I am now on a pathway to what I envisioned when I started this. Rather than stacking the plates higher and higher, I can now work precisely on one task, finish it, put the plate away, and grab a new plate. I have been famous for having 12 plates spinning at once, but the lightbulb suddenly came on for me.  It's about quality, not quantity. I am so excited that I know now exactly where I am going from here. I know that I am choosing to be amazing for my clients and give them the time and talent that they deserve. I know that in doing this, I will continue to thrive in what I love to do.

I've revealed a fire underneath me, a new motivation, and I hope this post leads you to putting down the less important plates and concentrating on the ones that mean the most to you. I did, and I feel the best I have in months.