eyefull photography

NEW BLOG PAGE

2011-09-22T13:59:00.000-07:00

Hey you guys! Check out my new blog site here. THANKS!!

So you want to get married...Part 4: Tuxedos!

2011-07-25T15:15:00.000-07:00

You absolutely cannot plan your wedding without also considering what your man is going to wear on that day. What he wears is just as important as what you wear and giving it some thought and consideration will be worth it in the long run.

You can't really go wrong with a man in a nicely cut tuxedo or tailored suit. The tuxedo is always a classic. A good tuxedo is formal wear at its very best. Simple, elegant, and classic. Think 007, Cary Grant, and Sinatra. And military is always super fly!

Do you buy or rent your tuxedo? The best way to decide is to ask yourself whether or not you see yourself attending a lot of Black-Tie events in the future. If you see yourself in this position, buying a tuxedo is probably the best decision. A tuxedo that is purchased can be tailored to your specifications. This makes for a tux that will fit and look a whole lot better. On the other hand, if you don’t see yourself attending anything that requires a tuxedo, renting is your best choice.

(taken from http://www.thegroomguide.com/dress2kill1.html)

Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

-Gray or white tuxedos are strictly wedding attire, whereas black tuxedos can be used for multiple events.

-Please keep the Cummerbunds in your high school prom photos and out of the wedding chapel~! Go with a vest. No Colors. Black or Silver, as they may be easier to coordinate with flower. Pattern or not, it’s your choice. Don’t forget the matching handkerchief.

-Either Bow ties or long ties are appropriate. I love a man in a sharp tie! Its both safe and classic; modern and sleek.

-Collared shirts please (that might go without saying). Even if your wedding is casual, say on the beach...stick with the collared shirt.

-If you go with a real bow tie, make sure you know how to tie it or have some one who knows how to be at your wedding.

-Tails are for conductors and penguins!

Sources: Pinterest.com

eyelets: new blog (to come)

2011-07-22T10:23:00.000-07:00

So I am a little bit of a dork and not technical at all.

I decided to add Wordpress as my new Blog...for many reasons. But when I set it up, I pointed my website address to the wordpress (which isn't up and running yet) so at some point today, is anyone puts in www.eyefullphotography.net what they are going to get is crickets....that's right...nada!

So I called and got it all sorted out but these things have to go in stages and in another 24 hours it should all be placed right.

Until then, just hang out here on this blog. Look at a few photos. Leave me some love (PLEASE! I'm not talking to myself am I?) Well maybe....that's okay too.

And I am hoping that my Saturday afternoon, my web address will be pointing in the right direction and I can start working on the new blog site! woo hoo!

Photo found on Pinterest.com

So You Decided to Get Married....flowers!

2011-07-19T09:03:00.000-07:00

Please don't ask me for a formal name. What you might get back is "Well, its pretty and purple!" The extent of my "flower power" is reminding my children not to pick them. I don't KNOW flowers, but I love to look at them and breathe in their fragrance. I may not be a florist, but I know that choosing your wedding colors will probably be one of the first things you do (outside of announcing to the world that you just got engaged!) And once you pick your colors, you may start to consider flower choices that will compliment and enhance your wedding day palatte.

I am by no means a floral expert. But, there are so many really good florists around, choosing the one (florist) that is right for your wedding, will help to bring your vision to fruition. As a wedding photographer, I would say that there is no wrong way for flowers. Anything goes. You can choose bold colorful flowers, or dainty flowers...it all depends on what you want and your budget.

I love Pinterest and all of these photos came directly from there. Pinterest is a great place to help you define what you like and what you don't like.

Talk to recently married friends and family and use local resource guides Once you have a few options, call and make appointments to visit your choices. This is your opportunity to make sure the florist is someone you feel comfortable with.

During your appointment, ask lots of questions! This is your time to get to know the florist and determine if they will be able to adequately capture your vision. A few questions you might want to ask are:

1) who will actually create the arrangements?
2) how many other weddings they will be working on around your wedding date?

Also, ask if the wedding florist has done events at your venue before. And, if you are able, take some photos of your venue so they can see what they are working with.

In-season flowers can dramatically cut your flower costs, so before you get your heart set, ask your florist if there is another variety that will give you the same look and feel for what you had in mind. Maybe its the color of the flower that you like, or a certain texture of flower. Be flexible. And any florist worth their weight, should be able to help you figure out what types of flowers work best for your style and budget.

Don't wait too long to do this -- the best florists fill up fast!

If you are looking for something a bit different, brooch bouquets are so popular lately. Did you see that gorgeous one in the first set of photos? I would love to own one, just to have for my collection of pretty things. You can check etsy for brooch bouquets. I did a quick search and found several pages of vendors who specialize in them.

Also another alternative would be something like this.
Designed by Miss Ruby Sue, photo credit to Innov8 Studio.

This piece is gorgeous! It is made with several different feathers, flowers, and lace. I had hoped to get a photo of this in color so show you how brilliant Miss Ruby Sue is, but couldn't. So I hope you can use your imagination with this one. I am certain she would be able to do one in any color of your choice. I am going to just have one made, to keep and use as a photo prop. I am a bit biased, I love anything Miss Ruby Sue makes.

Be creative! Find your style!

Vendors: Style Me Pretty, Pocketful of Dreams, Green Wedding Shoes, Wedding Gawker, Whole Blossoms, Project Wedding, Wedding Chicks, Sugar Bee Flowers, Bellethemagazine, Elizabeth Anne Designs, Brittany Griffin, Rock My Wedding, Love and Lavender, Tiny White Daisies

eyefull: a girl and a piece of watermelon Phoenix| California| and wherever else my camera takes me!

2011-07-18T12:40:00.000-07:00

How much can a child have with just a piece of fruit? Apparently, A LOT!
Check it out.

I had a thought of doing a quickie shoot with a watermelon. Good thing my girl likes watermelon.

NOTE: When you are photographing children and you want to use food, make sure to bring something they will like to eat and shoot fast! Before you know it, what they are eating may be gone.....

eyefull: So you decided to get married...Part 3: Wedding Dresses!

2011-07-15T12:47:00.000-07:00

Dresses.
Every girl has worn them.
Some have worn them against their will, but most others have relished the fact that you just feel prettier when you are in a pretty dress. And twirling is awful fun too!

Weddings.
Every girl has thought about getting married.
Some won't (for many reason), but most will make that walk down the aisle.
And what dress could make them feel more prettier. More glamorous. More like a princess than a wedding dress?

Months it takes to find the perfect one. I remember buying up every wedding magazine I could find, tearing out and carefully noting where I would be able to find that dress. I went to many gown show rooms and tried on so many beautiful dresses...I had a style in mind for what I wanted and that's what I went after.

There are so many dresses, colors, fabrics, textures, styles to choose from. The prospects are endless for todays bride. Since brides come in all different shapes, sizes, skin tones, so should dresses. And they do! Dresses come with different skirt styles (A lines, full) and different bodices (scooped, scallopped, straight, high necklines, low plunges). There are dresses with lace, dresses that are rouched, dresses with tufts, dresses that are straight....the combinations are endless.

Before you start trying on gowns , you need to confirm a few logistics: What time of year will the wedding take place? Where will the reception be? This will keep you from buying a dress that won't feel right on the day of (high neck with lots of lace for a outside garden wedding, a princess cut skirt for a reception in a small restaurant). But don't wait too long to begin shopping. It takes four to six months to have a dress made and fitted, sometimes longer for one with intricate handwork. If you start shopping eight to twelve months in advance, you won't feel rushed -- or encounter rush charges.

Its important to set a budget. Yes, the "B" word is back. If you do this you won't be likely to have your heart set on something that you can't afford. And just remember, if you go over budget in this area, you may have to cut back in another area.

Most bridal boutiques recquire an appointment. So making and keeping this appointment at the boutiques you want to look at is crucial. It would be helpful to arrive at your appointment with some examples of the kinds of dresses you are interested in. This way, the associate will be able to locate dresses that fit your style more quickly.

Decide on a silhouette. Know which type of gown will flatter your figure the best. Look at photos of each type. You can browse wedding website message boards and member profiles for photos of real women wearing gowns, rather than relying on professional photos of models wearing them. Here is a list of the 4 basic gown silhouettes:

Ball gowns have very full skirts and generally will look beautiful on any body type, theyvgenerally either have crinolines built in or a slip you must wear to support the shape of the gown. Be advised that this extra fabric can be heavy and bulky and will require extra care to wear.

A-lines usually have a fitted bodice with a skirt that flares gently from the waist to form an "A" shape. They generally work for everyone as well, and are a terrific choice for someone who would like to hide lower body flaws, but does not want a ball gown. A-lines are not as full as ball gowns.

Sheaths flatter women with slim, balanced figures. They shouldn't be worn by brides who dislike their figures. This gown will not hide any flaws. If you think your thighs or butt are too big, you'll be miserable in this type of dress. Don't try to pull it off because you found a gown you love in this style. You don't want to risk being uncomfortable or self conscious on your wedding day, or regretting your choice every time you look at wedding photos.

Empire waist gowns have a skirt that falls from just below the breasts. Although usually listed with various waistline types and not always considered a type of silhouette, they are a wonderful choice for a casual, non-formal wedding, or weddings in a tropical climate. They're usually made of light, flowing fabric. They're also excellent for pregnant brides, because they provide extra room in the waist, making them a comfortable choice. They also won't draw as much attention to the belly as a dress with a lower waistline would.

Make sure you are comfortable in the dress you choose. Lift your arms up over your heard, do a little jig...make sure you can move (and breath) in the dress. (Info taken from http://www.wikihow.com/Choose-a-Wedding-Dress)

NOTE: Most stores require a deposit, with the remaining balance due when you pick up the dress!

Oh! Make sure you take someone with you.

Maybe a few someones (hint: a brides maid or two, mother, grandmother)...someone who knows your style and your taste and will give you an opinion based on that information. Your sales clerk will also be very helpful, they certainly should not want you walking down the aisle in a dress that is ill formed for your BUT your girlies are the ones who will know right away if you have "found the one."

Vendors: BridePower, Pink Preppy, Ian Stuart, Rock N Roll Bride, Vera Wang, Ivy and Aster, Vintageous, Monique Hullier, Theia Coutre, Judd Waddell, Amy Kuschel, Demetrius, Maggie Sottero,
Wedding Inspiration, Disney Bridal, Eden Bridal, Marchesa, Oscar de la Renta, Nicole Miller.

Next time: Grooms, Bridesmaids/Groomsmen, Flowers and gifts!

eyelets: Meet Damaris Mia of Damaris Mia Photography

2011-07-13T08:21:00.000-07:00

What first drew me to Damaris Mia was the clarity and the "realness" of her photos. Are you following me when I saw "realness"? Her photos tell a story and draw you in. Each one. And I have to be honest, I want to photograph like her. That's what first attracted me. Second, her name! I have a daughter named Damaris and I just loved that they shared a name. I think the first thing I may have asked Damaris Mia was how she pronounced her name and where she was from that she was named "Damaris." (and on a side note, my BFF growing up has an older sister named Damaris too). Third, as I was reading blogs and looking at photos. It all stopped. And up popped a new Damaris Mia. She wrote a letter to herself and shared it with all of us. In it she explained her reasoning for dropping the pretense and starting over from scratch. That resonated so loudly with me because it mirrored what I was dealing with (and apparently what others are dealing with) that I knew that Damaris was the real deal. So here we go! Let's meet her.

1) Introduce yourself and get the visitors “in” on your work!

Hi :) I am Damaris of Damaris Mia Photography. I live in beautiful Orange County, CA with my husband and furkid named Nala. I’ve always been creative and into the arts but it wasn’t until May 2009 that I actually got into photography. I’ve been exposed to it my entire life because of my dad (who took his camera everywhere) but really didn’t show interest in photography until late 2008. I purchased my very first dSLR camera in May 2009 and have been shooting ever since!

2) I love your work. LOVE it…which is why I look at it often. How did you get started in the photography business, and when?

I got into photography in May 2009. In the beginning, I saw photography as a way to make some quick and easy money. However, the more I learned, the more I realized that it wasn’t so quick and easy. I jumped full force and did whatever I could to get my name out there. But over time, I came to realize that photography is so much more than making money. Many people have this misunderstanding of the photography business. I know I did. I have since taken a step back to think about where I want to go with my photography. I want to take it in a different direction than the direction I’ve been going. I can’t say where that will be just yet. You will have to follow me on my blog to find out :)

Im excited to see what you have in mind. I bet all of your fans are as well.

3)When was the first magic moment that you knew you wanted to be a photographer?

I was drawn to nature photography when I first started out. In May 2009, I took a trip to Hawaii and knew then that this is what I wanted to do. There was something about capturing God’s creation on camera and being able to enjoy it later, long after I left the island. There was this peacefulness of shooting nature that I was really drawn to.

4)When did you make it a full time thing?

I still haven’t made it a full-time thing. Right now, my photography is being taken in a new direction and am not ready to make it a full-time thing. I also work full-time at a different job. But if I’m being honest, I like it this way. And maybe that’s because I love the job I have right now. But photography will always be a passion of mine.

5)And I have to ask, because it’s a question that people are asking themselves anyway, what do you shoot with and what is your favorite lens?

I shoot with a Canon 7D and one of my favorite lenses to shoot with is the 35mm.

Me too! Though I don't have the 35mm...but its on my list...somewhere!

6)Describe your style.

Fun. Modern. Fresh. Clean. Classic.

I would definitely describe your work in that way. It is so very attractive. And I love it.

8) What is something that you are still learning?

I’m still learning everything! Haha. I can’t say that I fully understand one specific thing. I think there is just so much out there to learn. I thought I fully knew my camera and come to find out until I came across some cool and interesting tips! But really, I’m still learning everything.

I am quite certain that I don't use half of the functions that my camera is capable of. As of late, I have just been getting outside (or inside...its just so darn hot here) and taking pictures of the same thing, over and over, changing my setting, changing my position, changing the lighting, with the hopes that I can see what this camera is capable of what I can make it do when I know how to use all its functions.

9)What is the one thing that you LOVE LOVE about what you do?

This is hard because there are so many things I love about what I do. But I would probably say documenting and capturing those moments that would only be just a memory if not captured by a photographer. Also, I love creating art.

11) When you have nothing scheduled, where are we most likely to find you?

Playing soccer, at Disneyland, at home watching Netflix, hanging out with my husband and family, at the beach, hiking, or shooting for fun.

When we lived in CA I had Disneyland passes. Honestly that is one thing I miss so much. Arizona just doesn't have anything near like it. I am trying to come back to Cali and back to my passes!

12) As a photographer, I look to others, their work, their business model, who they seem to be as a person as viewed through their blogs or FB posts; if I look to you, who are YOU looking to?

When I first started out, I followed Jasmine Star like crazy. Not so much now though. But I do like to check her work from time to time. I love Lara Casey (she’s not a photographer but the editor for Southern Weddings Magazine). I admire Mike Colon (a photographer out here in Newport Beach, CA). I’ve simmered down looking at other photographers because I wanted to develop my own style and not beat myself up for not being at their level.

13) Coke or Pepsi?

Dr. Pepper. Haha. But if I had to choose between the two, it would be Pepsi.

You know what? I just discovered Cherry Dr. Pepper....its is YUMMY!

14) Knowing what you know now, what is something you would have done differently when you first started out?

I would have slowed down and focus on my art rather than try to get my name out there. It’s not a popularity contest but I didn’t see it that way when I first started out.

15) Something that I would like to know is, if ever, at any point in your career, have you thought about quitting, or doubted yourself, or hit a wall and wondered how to get over it? If so, can you give a little background? How did you overcome that hurdle?

I felt like quitting so many times. This all stemmed from being envious of other photographers in my area. I wasn’t envious of their work. I was envious because it seemed like they were always getting clients and I wasn’t. It was a really low point for me because I really beat myself for it. I almost put my camera away in the box. But I overcame that by taking a step back and reevaluating what I wanted out of photography and what I wanted out of life.

16) Who are YOU, other than a photographer?

I am a lover of Christ and a doting wife. I’m a momma to Nala, my furkid. I’m a family person. I love to eat. I’m a tomboy who isn’t afraid of heels. I’m a shoe addict. I’m athletic and competitive. I’m a lover of life.

Yay, I think I found that out early on reading blogs. I am so amazed at how God has drawn me towards other Christian photographers before I knew they were Christians. People like you and Arden Prucha, Style Image Studios, so many that I have had the privilege of 'interviewing."

17) I have a huge purse love, do you have any fun or extraordinary talents or obsessions, that you’d like to share with us?

I have a ridiculous obsession with buying high heels. I have heels that I’ve never even worn. It’s bad. And they’re not the easiest shoes to walk in either. I like the 5-inch heels because I’m short (5’3”.. hubby is 6’1”)

18) What has been your best marketing strategy?

Oh goodness, I don’t think I’m the right person to answer this. For me it’s just been putting myself out there on the internet and word of mouth. I’ve never paid for any type of advertising. It’s worked so far :)

19) What is the one piece of advice you could give that could be invaluable to someone starting out?

I don’t know if I can give just one, haha. First and foremost, I really and truly believe that one should practice, practice, practice. Like, REALLY learn your camera. Learn all the things you can do. And I don’t think you can learn all that just by reading a manual or watching videos online. You NEED to go out and shoot. Go practice what you’ve learned. You will make mistakes and lots of them. But you won’t learn unless you make those mistakes. You won’t grow if you’re idle so always try new things out. It’s a learning and growing process. Also, don’t try to be like someone else. You will most likely end up disappointed. Don’t try to imitate other photographers. Be yourself.

20) Lastly, what is one word in the English dictionary that describes you?

Scattered? Haha. In a good way though ;)

Where can people find you, like you, and love you just as I do?

blog: http://www.damarismia.net/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/photography.damarismia

Twitter: http://twitter.com/damaris_mia

eye color: Hazel/Green

Blood type: Beats me! That’s bad, huh?

and favorite food: Romanian and Asian food.

So you decided to get married: Part 2...Wedding Shoes

2011-07-12T13:53:00.000-07:00

I don't know if I should admit this or not...but Im really not much of a shoe girl. I have shoes because I don't want my feet to get dirty. But when it comes to picking them out, its kind of a "as needed basis." If I need a pair of sandals, I go and look for a pair of sandals. If I need tennis shoes (if you remember my tennis shoe debaucle here, here, and here) then I go out and find some. But I know there are some people for whom shoes are an obsession! And that's cool. Shoes can definitely make or break an outfit.

On your wedding day, shoes are just as important! Maybe even more so. As a wedding photographer, I love to see shoes that push the limit and are outside of the box in terms of colors and style. They tell me a little bit about your personality...hmmm, will your rock some cute flats, or go all out with the embellished stilleto's? Its all about personal taste, what you like, and most importantly, what you will feel comfortable in.

What comes first? The dress or the shoes? Well, for my purposes, I am posting shoes first? Why? Because in my search on Pinterest, I found some smoking hot shoes, that just might make me turn into a shoe kinda girl after all!

Traditional wedding shoes are usually white, satin and medium or high heel. That’s usually because most wedding dresses are white, long and of a satin-like material. But you might want to do things differently...just because the majority go with the white dress and white shoes does not mean you have to. And as a photographer, if you choose to sport a pair of blue high heeled stilletos, more power to you! Check out these styles!

Certain details require your personal attention, so don’t leave it to others. You spend so much time perfecting your wedding dress, you must spend at least a quarter of that time deciding your wedding shoes.

Go ahead, start the beginning of your new life as a married girl with the best pair of shoes that you can buy. All eyes will be riveted on you when you make your grand entrance and when you are confident in what you are wearing you will have the courage to move on and walk confidently along the aisle.
(In fact, that cute pair of pink bedazzled keds? One of my brides wore those as she walked down the aisle! These shoes were all her and she worked the look all the way to her groom!)

Generally brides wear white shoes but you don't have to. Subtle and elegant colors will only enhance your outfit. Ivory colored shoes are a great option. Or blue, red and pink. The choice for wedding shoes is one and many and you can choose between silver stilettos, white wedges or flip flops.

I found a few pair of shoes that I am like "Yes, I want to rock that look." Haha! Maybe I should get married again. Or maybe, I can just buy the darn things and rock the look with my camera photographing your wedding! Or...just maybe...Im wearing them as I type this article...;)

Everybody will be looking at you; your dress, your hair, your make up, your accessories and your shoes. Your shoes can be both comfortable and fashionable, but only push the fashion in as much as you can bare it. If you can't rock the shoes with confidence, choose another pair that you can!

And don't forget about your best girls standing next to you at the front. They want to rock a look too...
So go out there, and find yourself a pair of shoes for your wedding day!

Oh and lest I forget...men's shoes are equally important as the bridal shoes. The same rules apply though. Work the shoes, but feel comfortable and confident while you're doing it!~

vendors/highlights: ecrater.com, Style Me Pretty, Nina Shoes, Weddingiluv, Citified, StephanieFay, Light in the Box, Zappos, Kate Spade, DSW, Hey Lady, Nordstrom

mens shoes: BergdorfGoodman, Gucci, Dies Van Noten, Burburry, Prada, Calvin Klein

Next? Gowns, Bridesmaids dresses, Flowers, Tuxedos, Groomsmen/Bridesmaids gifts

eyefull: So you decided to get married...Part 1:

2011-07-11T17:53:00.000-07:00

Part 1: Rings and Venues

So you have finally decided to make the jump and get married!
Congratulations!!
I am so excited for you.
I remember when I got engaged and started planning my wedding...oh so many years ago. It was exciting, overwhelmings, lots of discussions and planning. It was like having a second job. Every weekend we were going out to do something wedding related. Wedding have come a looong way since then. Honestly, if I were to get married today my wedding would look so different than it did (clear my throat) years ago :D.

I am loving Pinterest. Have you checked it out? It is a great place to find inspiration and ideas on a variety of endeavors, from house decorating, crafts, food, and YES Weddings!! You "pin" and "repin" your favorites to your own boards and then you can go back and review them, move them around, or whatever. It has been helping me to find my style, my likes and dislikes.

If you haven't already, choosing your wedding rings can be an amazing activity. It gives you both a chance to talk about what you like what you don't like and the style you like. This might be one of the first indicators of how your wedding and reception will proceed, your decorating styles and your tastes from food to bow ties! Wedding rings range from a few hundred dollars to many thousands of dollars. So its good to set your budget early to make sure that you don't go over when you are out shopping. There are so many different styles to choose from. Below are just a few that I found on Pinterest in preparation for this article.

You can go sleek and classic with simple wedding bands, or do something bold. Its all up to you. The couple.

The next step in planning your wedding, would be securing your venues for both the church and the reception site and also your photographer. As an Arizona portrait and wedding photographer, of course I would LOVE for you to choose me to photograph capture your day. Realistically, your photography budget may be between 20-30% of your entire budget, so when you spend that much money for one vendor, you want to make sure you choose someone who you get along with, who you like as a person, and whose style of photography best reflects what you want. That's right, I said "style". Photographers are not cookie cutters. We all have different ways of approaching our craft, from equipment to editing. Once you view some wedding photographers websites and blogsites on line, make sure that you speak to them, if not in person, at least on the telephone. That will tell you a lot about personality and vision toward wedding photography, and whether or not you think you can get along with them for the next 6-9 months as you plan your wedding~! Here are a few basic questions you might want to keep in mind when discussing your photography needs:

1) How long have you been in business?
2) How many weddings have you photographed?
2) Can I see photos of the weddings? Both candid and posed?
3) Do you have any referrals that I can call?
4) What is your approach toward wedding photography and protratiture?
5) What is your turn around time for photos?
6) What is your backup plan?

VENUES:

Whether you choose an indoor venue, an outside venue, or something inbetween, the details will help what make your wedding day wonderful. Choose a competent and established wedding planner to help you plan your day. (In the weeks to come, I will be interviewing wedding planners in the Phoenix area or their business and their vision when helping a bride plan their wedding). Wedding planners that I have followed through FB, Blueprint Affairs, LLC or Karen Doan Events do an absolutely gorgeous job of planning events from start to finish. Check out these cool wedding venues. Some are elaborate and some are simple backyards, but its the details that make it special don't you think?

As you can see, though each venue is different, the use of light, both natural and articifical, coupled with tiny details and special touches create the ambience on your wedding day. If you are a country girl, you might choose a barn wedding and have details that reflect your love of country. If you want a more traditional wedding, glass and china, might be what you decide will make your day special. Even if you are having an english style of wedding...all of these will play into WHERE you have your wedding and the TIME of your event. But, whatever you decide, make sure it reflects you...You and your fiancee. THAT is what will make your day special and memorable. If you are looking for someone to help you fine tune details with creative flair, contact Creative Occasions, they specialize in taking your vision and making it reality with colors and creativity!

Vendors: marcusdesigninc.blogspot.com, i01.i.aliimg.com, Karen Doan Events, Blue Print Affairs, Creative Occasions, Style Me Pretty

Up next? Flowers, wedding dresses, shoes, hair, grooms tuxes, bridesmaids/grooms men and gifts!!

eyelets: Price Guides

2011-07-08T12:29:00.000-07:00

As a Arizona portrait and wedding photographer, I really want to try keep up on the trends in the photographey business. That does not just mean that I want to stay sharp skill wise, but also I want to stay on top of things with my product and media management.

This project has been a labor of love. It all started with a conversation I had with another photographer about making automated price guides. When I priced them through a another company, I couldn't afford it. But then I remembered that I had some templates that I had purchased from The Album Cafe and I thought that I might be able to make my own automated price guides using the templates and Issuu. You can see the automated portraited price guide here and the wedding guide here.

But that wasn't enough!

I really wanted to have the guides printed.

Again, what I thought would be an easy endeavor turned out to be more difficult.

I figured out a way that I could take panels from the auto guide and put them onto a 4 panel front/back card. However, the company kept sending it back to me because my dimensions were off! ACH! About 10 tries later, I finally got it.

I had them printed and I cannot wait to start giving these out to clients.

I am so excited! They are 4 panel, 4x4.5 accordian cards. They look fabulous!!

Digitally printed on standard paper....the texture and feel of these are amazing. They come in batches of 25...so I have 25 of each style. And when those are done, I will get 25 more. This is how you build a business people! Little bit at a time! :D

I am looking forward to increasing my boutique style with custom bags and boxes. From start to finish, you will have a wonderful experience with this studio!

eyefull photography- Happy Birthday!

2011-07-07T11:44:00.000-07:00

Why did I become a photographer? Well one of FOUR reasons...this reason being #2.

On May 27, 2011, I gave birth to my second daughter. I actually went into labor the night before and delivered Grace early on the 27th. I am in awe of how quickly time has flown by and how much she has changed since she was born.

Some of Grace's best attributes are her sense of humor, she is quite talkative, she is fiercely loyal, and she has a great big heart full of love. She is an amazing girl and I am thankful for her (always).

And the winner is.....

2011-07-06T11:09:00.000-07:00

The winner for all of these prizes is entry #2!!

The number was chosen using random.org.

Mmmanduh said...
"Omg Omg Omg! Went to Missing Pieces Studios, added them to my circle and they have a BATMAN necklace. I am seriously buying it right now. I am not kidding! lol my name on etsy is mmmanduh. "

Mmmanduh you have 48 hours to contact me at dawniele@eyefullphotography.net to claim your prize! Please send me your address and your email address so I can pass it along to the participating vendors!~

Thanks to everyone....

contest updates

2011-07-06T07:51:00.000-07:00

The contest is now CLOSED. Winner announced shortly~

Yep! I've done it. I've gone and decided to hold a contest of my own. A few months ago, I won a contest and I was so excited to receive the goodies. I hope that you will be too.

I was able to get some fantastic people to join in with me on this contest! I am so thankful for the vendors that have agreed to participate. Fun Fun!

I am so excited about the lineup of vendors for this giveaway.

1) From eyefull photography! YOU can win a mini session, 45min-1 hour, for FREE. That's right! For FREE. This is the last one I will giveaway for awhile, so get in on this stat!!

2) I can't help it. I absolutely love love love me some Miss Ruby Sue. She is an amazing designer that puts together incredible headbands and hats, creations...love it. Check out some of what she has right now, but keep reading for YOUR chance to win a gift certificate for one of her remarkable creations. You soooo don't have to be a photographer to appreciate these items. Anyone can win. I won one a few months ago and I put it on my girls all the time. Photographer or not, you've got to have one of these. No daughters? Only sons? Well maybe you can gift it to a beautiful girl in your life.

Miss Ruby Sue has agreed to give a $50 gift certificate to her etsy store~! If you haven't seen any of her creations, look below at this head band in a contest that I won from MissRubySue. Go on over to her FB page here and like it.

3) My dear friend Kim Johnson, also has an etsy shop, called KM Designs. She not only makes beautiful jewelry, but she also makes photographic equipment and has agreed to give away a CUSTOM MADE camera bag insert. This is a $45 value. The winner will contact Kim and let her know how you want it made...that'sit! It is custom made to order. Here is her etsy page Like Kim's FB page, K & M Designs, let her know that eyefull photography sent you!

4) One dear lady I know is a stylist for Jewel Kade 09. Have you heard of them? Fabulous and funky interchangeable neckaces and bracelets and charms. Rhonda is offering a JK Bracelet!

It is super cute! A $28 value and it can be yours, by just checking out the Jewel Kade catalog and letting me know what your favorite item is. AND if you want to order anything more, contact Rhonda! She's awesome.

5) This super cute little knitted hat is from Sweet Pea Toad on Etsy. You can see the full line of what is offered on the etsy site! Go check out what they've got and come back here and leave some love. Sweet Pea Toad also has a FB page...so go there and tell her eyefull photography sent you! Thank you Cathy!!

6) Spoiled Rotten Kids is including the cutest lavendar Pettiromper that I have seen. So cute! Take a look!

Too much cuteness don't you think? Check out all Spoiled Rotten Kids on their website . Seriously! go the etsy shop, check them out and come back and tell us what you think? I have already eyed a t-shirt there that I need to get for my "spoiled rotten kid"!

7) I love love this little necklace its from Missing Pieces Studio on etsy! Is it too cute or what? I want one so bad and the owner has agreed to give one to you! Lorinda said, and I quote, "Well...since I'm from Arizona and all I feel compelled to participate. Plus, I checked out your photos and they're awesome! Just let me know where to send it. Thanks!" woo hoo! Thank you Lorinda and Missing Pieces Studio!

Go and check out their stuff. Very cute. Highly affordable!

8) I found another super cute item! And because I found it, I got two sets. One set for me, one set for you :D
How much fun would you have with these? I can't wait to use mine.

9) So excited~! Camera Creatures on Etsy has agreed to giveaway a Furry Red Friend. Look at how super cute these are! I love them!

What you need to do though is go to Camera Creatures facebook site and tell her that eyefull photography sent you. Go on over to the etsy page too and start looking at the Creature you might want to choose if you win. Come on back here and leave some love that you did all of that.

10. Thank you to Lily and Lime Boutique on etsy for giving this adorable hand knit cap! You can see all that is offered here.
This photo was taken by Jennifer Nace Photography and used by Lily and Lime Boutique with permission

Here is what you have to do to win.
1) "Like" and leave a comment at my eyefull photography FB fan page here.
2) "Like" and leave a comment at MissRubySue's facebook page here.
3) "Like" and leave a comment on K&M Designs facebook page here.
4) Go check out Jewel Kade and see what you like.
5) "Like" Sweet Pea Toad's facebook page and tell them eyefull sent you, here.
6) Go on over to Spoiled Rotten Kids on etsy. Find something you like. Come back here and say you did that. If you have an etsy page, add this one to your favorites! Expand your circle!
7) Go on over to Missing Pieces Studios on etsy, find something you can't live without...come back over here and say you did it. If you have an etsy page, add this one to your favorites! Expand your circle!
8) Go to Creature Creations on FB, like the page...come back and say you did.
9) Go to Lily and Lime and "like" their FB page here . If you have an etsy page, add this one to your favorites! Expand your circle! on Etsy here.

REQUIRED to ENTER:

LIKING and LOVING all of those pages...is one entry! Come back and say you did it (we will check to verify the winner).

Additional Entries: Tweet, FB on your page, or blog about it and come back, leave a message with the link. That will add THREE additional entries for you. You will need to leave an additional entry for each of these 3 items.

You can have a total of 4 entries to win!

Someone is going to win this and be sooooo happy~!

The contest ends midnight, July 5th, 2011. The Winner will be randomly chosen and announced on my FB page and blog page, Wednesday, July 6, 2011. After we verify your entry, you will receive all of these prizes! You will have 72 hours to respond to dawniele@eyefullphotography.net with an email saying that you won and your address. Then, just sit back and relax and wait for the goodies to arrive!

Here is the legal: This contest is in NO way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by Facebook. FB will NOT notify you if you have won. You must be 18 to enter and you MUST leave all of your responses on this blog page...not the FB page...THIS blog page! Prizes do not have any cash value and are subject to the rules by the grantee.

If you have trouble leaving a comment, please reach me at dawniele@eyefullphotography.net

Fundraiser: For the Lyons family.

2011-07-01T13:06:00.000-07:00

My dear friend's mother was recently and suddenly diagnosed with a brain tumor. She has undergone one surgery but there is more that is needed to move toward her recovery. On July 21, 2011 I have been asked to partner with another photographer to help raise money for medical expenses, treatment, and after care.

Please call the number listed to make your appointment today!

Referral Thank You card!

2011-06-30T10:55:00.000-07:00

As a Phoenix are family and wedding photographer, I would NOT be where I am without the help and support of you...my clients. I would like to offer you a thank you for all of your support. So thank you!

But that's not enough! Read on :D

This is good any time. Just let me know and I will start a card for you.
Thank you again
and again
and again!

eyelets: Contest! Its time to win~!~

2011-06-30T08:03:00.000-07:00

4) One dear lady I know is a stylist for Jewel Kade 09. Have you heard of them? Fabulous and funky interchangeable neckaces and bracelets and charms. Rhonda is offering a JK Bracelet!

8) I found another super cute item! And because I found it, I got two sets. One set for me, one set for you :D
How much fun would you have with these? I can't wait to use mine.

9) So excited~! Camera Creatures on Etsy has agreed to giveaway a Furry Red Friend. Look at how super cute these are! I love them!

eyelet: my evening snack

2011-06-28T12:50:00.000-07:00

I have gotten into this crazy habit of having an evening snack every night.
An evening consitutional, if you will.
See that beautiful black beauty in the middle? That's my Keurig. And I love her.

I just purchased this cup (two of them), as well as (2) Vente cups, and (2)Tall cups from Starbucks. They are my new favorite mugs to drink out of. They make my evening consititutional so grand.

Aw, my new cup and my lovely Keurig. Now what to make....

Well, I love toast and strawberry jam. This particular jam is made by my neighbor Joanna Crowley, she lives behind me (remember the sunflowers) and she is a fabulous cook and she does things like this, get strawberries and can them. She also has fabulous recipes! You can meet Joanna and her try her yummy recipes here and for the record, her Baked Potato Soup is yumdelicioso.

Whenever she posts that she has something to sale, I tell her to meet me at the fence. Everything she makes is always so good.

Everything is prepared and ready to go...

Look at all these yummy varieties of coffee for the Keurig? I have more, but these were the ones in the box I grabbed, so I used them. You can try these varieties at Big Cat Coffee. I love them because they let you put together your own variety pack. You can choose 5 of any of your favorites, up to 25 per box. So in one box, you get 5 different kinds of coffee and teas. Yummy. Delivered right to your house! Yea Boy!

Tonight, I choose Chai Tea...!

Load the Keurig.

While my water is heating up (in about a minute) I butter my toast.

The Keurig brews in less than 60 seconds. So fast. So perfect.

I wanted creamer in my tea. But its hard to get good depth perception when you are taking your own photo and pouring at the same time.

Yep and Chocolate makes anything taste better.

Aaah....

Oh that's so good!

eyelet: meet Theresa Knight of Theresa Knight Photography!

2011-06-23T09:23:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to interview Theresa of Theresa Knight Photography. I am simply captivated by her images. They are remarkable. Fine pieces of art. When I first saw her work several months ago, it was a boudoir shoot, and I thought "WOW!" From the image to the processing, Theresa has got it. I think I just posted to her FB page that I loved loved her work and a friendship was made. We live far apart from each other, but I do hope to get up to Northern California very soon and I will definitely look up Theresa when I am there.

Preparing for this interview, sending emails back and forth to one another, Theresa states that she was humbled by all the remarkable photographers that have been featured during my summer of interviews. And I am thinking in my head, "Theresa! You belong right up there. You are one of those remarkable photographers!" When you see her work, you will think so too!

1) Introduce yourself and get the visitors “in” on your work!
My name is Theresa Knight and I run Theresa Knight Photography out of the San Francisco Bay Area. My work ranges from maternity, family, senior, and boudoir sessions to engagement sessions.

(note: This is actually her-above-)

2) I love your work. LOVE it…which is why I look at it often. How did you get started in the photography business, and when?

In 1988, I assisted a photographer in Philadelphia and worked mostly in award ceremonies and local news. He became a mentor for me in photography and inspired me to take photography classes.

I have been strong arming photographers into becoming my mentors. Thankfully they have agreed to help me out and give advice when I need it. I currently have one who is kind of a defacto mentor because she lives out of state, but she has been so great for me at this stage in my business. Finding someone who can do that, without feeling threatened or annoyed with all the questions, is important I think. It is great that you found someone early on in your career to be that for you.

3)When was the first magic moment that you knew you wanted to be a photographer?

The first magic moment that made me know I wanted to be a photographer was my first time in the dark room. The anticipation of seeing the photography you developed was exciting and unforgettable.

I have never developed film. But it is something that I would like to do for sure!

4)When did you make it a full time thing?

Since I am still working for the business for twenty years, I don‘t consider photography my full-time job. I became more serious about it two years ago after taking photographs of my own family on father’s day.

5)And I have to ask, because it’s a question that people are asking themselves anyway, what do you shoot with and what is your favorite lens?

I shoot mainly with two cameras: Canon 50d and Canon 5d Mark 2. My favorite lens would have to be the 50 mm. I have been canon loyal since the 80’s!

My "wish list" just keeps getting longer and longer. The Canon 5d is on it, but its a little further down the list :D. I know you just got yours and I am guessing you have been loving it!

6)Describe your style.

I’m in love with the vintage style, whether it be the 30’s or all the way up to the 70’s. I love the tones and style depicted in vintage photographs.

That was the first thing I noticed about your photography. I love your vintage style processing. I have tried it and its a little more than juust running an action over a photo, so I am so excited that you are developing your own vintage style processing and have given me a few to play around with. I am excited for you with this new piece of your business. Vintage processing is no easy notion and when someone who loves the style develops some actions and processing, it helps a lot.

7) Your subjects range from newborns and children to seniors to newlyweds and families… what is your favorite subject to photograph?

My favorite subject would definitely have to be women!

8) What is something that you are still learning?

I’m still learning more about poses; I’m learning how to come up with new poses and how to make the photographs my own.

(BTW, this photo above is spectacular).

9)What is the one thing that you LOVE LOVE about what you do?

I love being able to make my clients feel beautiful and glamorous- something that everyone deserves to feel.

10) I don't have a studio, so for someone who is looking to bulk up her studio creds, would equipment should I get first?

The first two things you should invest in are backdrops and good lighting (strobes).

11) When you have nothing scheduled, where are we most likely to find you?

If I have nothing scheduled, you might find me treasure hunting! I love to visit thrift stores and see what I can find for future photography props.

12) As a photographer, I look to others, their work, their business model, who they seem to be as a person as viewed through their blogs or FB posts; if I look to you, who are YOU looking to?

I get a lot of inspiration from magazine spreads and television shows, such as America’s Next Top Model.

13) Coke or Pepsi?

Pepsi, it reminds me of when I was a kid.

Oh Theresa, here we have to part ways! Interview is over! J/K. Im just a Coke girl :D

14) Knowing what you know now, what is something you would have done differently when you first started out?

I definitely would not have waited to start my photography business. I would’ve started then and not wait as long as I did.

I am soo glad you started when you did. But always, better late than never. I didn't think I would be able to do start and here I am. Its a process for sure....as they say, "a marathon, not a sprint" and that has proven true for me. But I am learning to be okay with it. And plus, sometimes waiting gives time to forumlate you know. I think your waiting has given you a wonderful eye and processing for NOW.

15) Something that I would like to know is, if ever, at any point in your career, have you thought about quitting, or doubted yourself, or hit a wall and wondered how to get over it? If so, can you give a little background? How did you over come that hurdle?

Yes, sometimes I have felt like I didn’t make enough time for myself and my family; I felt like I was losing myself. Sometimes I don’t get enough sleep and feel burnt out. I overcame this by taking a break from my work and spending time with my loved ones.

It is hard when you are first starting because you pour your heart into building it up and it does become consuming. I have had to take a step back. Not only was I becoming consumed, I was becoming unhappy. And I always only wanted this to be a pleasureable experience. Family is great in helping you re-prioritize right? Especially husbands!

16) Who are YOU, other than a photographer?

Before I am a photographer, I am a loving mother and wife.

17) I have a huge purse love, do you have any fun or extraordinary talents or obsessions, that you’d like to share with us?

If I let myself procrastinate on my work, I would easily become a reality show junkie! With Judge Judy being number one.

haha! Is Judge Judy still on? I love reality shows too, but I am a Housewives junkie.

18) Looking back on all you have done to date, what has been your favorite moment as a photographer?

The moment I realized that I could be a professional photographer.

19) What has been your best marketing strategy?

Hands down, word of mouth has been the best marketing strategy, followed by being flexible for clients’ schedules.

20). You and your camera, across time and space, where would you go and what would you photograph?

I would love to go back in time and photograph Paris in the early 1900’s.

21) What is the one piece of advice you could give that could be invaluable to someone starting out?

Be yourself, find your inspiration, but make it your own, something I heard from another fantastic photographer, Latenia Bryant.

Latrenia is AWESOME! Thank you for sharing her with me. You guys can check out Latrenia at Latrenia Brant Photography because seriously, once you see what she does, you will be amazed.

22) Lastly, what is one word in the English dictionary that describes you?

Passionate.

Where can people find you, like you, and love you just as I do?

website site: http://www.theresaknightphotography.com/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Theresa-Knight-Photography/139030779470964

eye color: brown

and favorite food: Sushi!

So typically I like Sushi. Typically. But a few weeks ago I had an experience with a bowl of noodles that sent me to the moon and back and now I think I have lost my apetite! My husband and I went out for dinner to a local sushi restaurant. I wanted to get these noodles with shrimp (because I really wasn't feeling like I wanted sushi). So the waitress brings me this bowl. the first thing I notice is that there is something on top of the noodles, like shavings or something. But since I didn't know what it was, I was trying to scrape them off. In the mean time, my husband says, "Why is your plate moving?" I look down. And literally all I see are these fat noodles that look like earth worms and this movement on my plate. I was up and out of my seat and at the door in like 5 seconds flat because all I was thinking about was, they served me worms! The waitress comes running over and tries to explain to me that the "movement" is the shaved dried noodles on top that when the heat hits them they waver from side to side. I am shaking my head "no" and my husband is confused and she whips my plate away to bring me out another one. So it was the combination of the stuff moving on top and these fat (worm like noodles settling) on the plate and to this day, I am known (I am sure) as the "noodle lady" and have not been back sense!

eyelet: family fun | Phoenix, AZ| CA| and wherever my camera takes me!

2011-06-22T07:31:00.000-07:00

I am a photographer who seems to have hit a lull in the ol' business plan. I am sitting here asking myself, "what more I can do to bring people to the website, to look at the photos, to make a decision that they want photos taken? But not just any photos by any person. Photos by me...Dawniele Castellanos...owner/photographer of eyefull photography?"

And the answer is clear?
Nothing.

I can't make anyone do anything. I can only do what I do and hope that someone spies an element in my photography style that they want hanging on their walls (of course with their family and loved ones and not mine-necessarily...unless you are Grandma or Nana and of course you want my family hanging on your wall). But thankfully, I can do ALL things through Christ who gives me strength. And as long as I feel like He is still moving me forward, lull or not, I will continue to do what I love to do. Savvy?

In the meantime, I still need to stay stay in the game.
So what did the girls and I decide to do?
Make faces....

We started out wanting to make cross-eyed pictures, but #4 can't cross her eyes on command.

#3 can only cross her eyes when she is not thinking about it. But since she is NOW thinking about crossing her eyes, she cannot cross her eyes.

Props are what #2 needs to cross her eyes. Not able to do it on her own, she uses her fingers to guide her eyes into place.

#1- well, in her own words, "I can't do it. I just can't do it."

LOL! I love these girls and this is why I do what I do.

And then there's me. Handing over my camera to my #2 to snap a photo. Crossing my eyes is not a problem...its just getting them uncrossed that might be trouble.

Have a great day!

eyelets

2011-06-18T09:32:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here, kind of lamenting and feeling a little bit sorry for myself for a number of reasons. I don't know. Sometimes I get in these moods and they are hard to shake. I click on a FB photographers group that I am a member of and the first post I see is about another fellow photographer, whom I have never met, named Erin Phillips. Yesterday, Erin's 3.5 year old son fell into a pool and yesterday she lost him.

Now, that snapped me right out of my lamenting. And I am so so sorry for her loss. I have never met her and my heart goes out to her and her family yesterday, today, and for the months to come.

Another photographer set up a donation site for her and her family. If you are able, donate here.

And I know you are you able to do these next few things. First of all, PRAY. Pray for her, her family, their loss. 2) I don't know the details of how he fell into the pool. Does it matter? But I do know this....WATCH your children with diligence that you never knew you had when you are around bodies of water: bath tubs, pools, whatever....

I will pray for Erin today.

eye on Kristen Weaver of Kristen Weaver Photography

2011-06-17T12:14:00.000-07:00

As a portrait photographer in Arizona, I have learned to follow the best in the business in terms of their photography style and [what I perceive as their] business acumen. I have been lucky enough to have been granted permission into the lives of another such wonderful photographer. I have followed Kristen Weaver on facebook for months! Months! Her photos are so amazing that I would sometimes find my nose pressed right up against the computer screen trying to figure out how she did that. But strangely enough, it was these next photos that I mustered up the courage to ask her to consent to a blog interview.

Strange uh? That it would be photographs of details...gorgeous details...that would send me over the edge? Well, over I went and I am glad that I did. Its time to meet Kristen Weaver!

1) Introduce yourself and get the visitors “in” on your work!

Hi! I'm Kristen Weaver, and I take pictures. Some would probably call me a photographer, but I've always just been a girl with a lot of dreams, an obsessive work ethic and a passion for color-coding and traveling. I take a lot of pictures, but I think it's more my way of being crazy in love with the dynamic of different relationships. I love to capture that emotion and feeling - showing what makes every couple different. In my "free" time, I do fashion photography. I fell in love with the freedom and creativity of producing fashion shoots that spoke to my emotions at any given time. My fashion portfolio is more of a personal diary that I can reflect on different moments in my life and the emotion I was feeling during it.

2) I love your work. LOVE it…which is why I look at it often. How did you get started in the photography business, and when?

I can't remember a specific time when I "got started" - I mean, I've been taking pictures for as long as I can remember. But officially, I started my full time venture in photography just 2 short years ago, in the fall of 2009, after being laid off from a job as a marketing director. I was 28 at the time, and pretty much decided it was "now or never". Luckily it worked out for me!

It seems like sometimes the moments of making the best decisions of our lives comes when we should (logically) hunker down and take cover! Sometimes it is called "destiny" or "providence." I call it "God" all the way...sometimes He needs to get our attention and the only way to do that is to take away something that we find security in.

3)When was the first magic moment that you knew you wanted to be a photographer?

I don't think I had a magic moment - much like I can't remember the specific time I decided to start photography. I never took any photography classes and I have no professional training. I actually encourage others to focus more on business and marketing, not photography. You just can't teach someone to have the "eye" or creativity - so you either have it or you don't... but the business of the industry is brutal and I've seen many incredibly talented photographers close up shop because they just didn't have the right tools for the legal, marketing and finance side of photography studios.

That's interesting perspective to me, because you have such an amazing eye. So, I need to mull that one over in my mind a bit because I know I get caught up in the photography side (which is important) but the business side sometimes boggles me a bit. I am taking from what you said that I need to really know the business side...that will help us become better at photography.

4)When did you make it a full time thing?

I think I already covered this, but I started full time in October 2009. I'm coming up on my 2-year anniversary! Yay!

Only two years and such a meteoric rise. WOW!~

5)And I have to ask, because it’s a question that people are asking themselves anyway, what do you shoot with and what is your favorite lens?

I shoot entirely Nikon and my favorite lens is the 85mm 1.4. I shoot a variety of lenses - but I stick almost entirely to primes. I hate zoom lenses (and no, I've never owned a 70-200 and believe you can still shoot weddings without one!)

That's funny Kristen because that has been stated as the go to lens for weddings. So now I wonder what you DO shoot your weddings with, particularly when you can't get up in someones grill during the ceremony~

6) Describe your style.

Oy. My style, huh? Well, I'm obsessed with relationships... so my style focuses on the dynamic of the couple. I love details though, too. I think my editing style is crisp and clean, with colors that show exactly how I want the day remembered. I find myself leaning more towards the soft, romantic moments. I think there's a place for vintage and tinted editing, but I try to keep it out of my editing process as much as possible... just not my style.

I know that your editing style is what drew me in to begin with. I think it resonates with many of your fans.

7) Your subjects range from newborns and children to seniors to newlyweds and families… what is your favorite subject to photograph?

My favorite thing to photograph creatively is fashion. I love weddings, but there's a lot that I have to do that is "required" and sometimes I find myself stuck creatively because I'm a slave to the timeline of the day, moods, nervousness, etc. I think my second favorite thing to shoot is any kind of "couple" moments - engagements, trash the dress sessions - it's the place where I can really bring out the relationship and take my time with them. It helps me to be inspired!

I feel like I am commenting a lot, after every question, but I wouldn't have guessed that fashion was your favorite. I would have guessed weddings hands down. Your weddings are amazing, but now I want to look closer at your fashion photos. I have friend whose passion is fashion and it just screams loud and clear. But maybe its because I know her personally and so we have talked about it in the past.

8) What is something that you are still learning?

Everything?! I'm a sponge - I try to really learn as much as I can about the technical side of what I do. Since I was never trained professionally, I had a lot of ground to cover and I'm still finding out little things here and there about my camera and flash. I'm also still trying to get the hang of taxes. Thank goodness for accountants!!

9) What is the one thing that you LOVE LOVE about what you do?

I LOVE pleasing people! There's nothing like getting a card, note or email from a client raving about my work. It makes me feel SO good and like I have made an impact on their lives, no matter how minor it may seem to some. I just like making girls feel pretty. When they look at pictures and can't believe its really them - that's the most amazing feeling. I get to show everyone else the beautiful person they are!

10) I don't have a studio, so for someone who is looking to bulk up her studio creds, would equipment should I get first?

I started with Alienbees for my first studio equipment. I'd say you can't go wrong with a couple basic strobes, light stands and a good soft box. I've since branched out quite a bit, but I only use about half of the studio equipment that I've bought. It all has specific purposes, and I don't get to shoot studio as much as I'd like sometimes.

There are a few things on my list for this year, some studio lighting is one of them.

11) When you have nothing scheduled, where are we most likely to find you?

It's an incredibly rare day when I have nothing scheduled, so I don't actually have much time "off". Generally speaking, I like spending my down-time catching up on reality tv shows, or going out to dinner. I've actually been thinking a lot about taking a little non-work-retreat (just by myself) to refocus and clear my head. After 2 years, I think it's time that I'm due!

12) As a photographer, I look to others, their work, their business model, who they seem to be as a person as viewed through their blogs or FB posts; if I look to you, who are YOU looking to?

My 2 favorite photographers are Elizabeth Messina and Jose Villa. On the other side, I'm a fan of Sean Armenta and Babak. I also love Jeremy Cowart for his non-profit work (I also started a non-profit called Images for a Cure - so he's a big inspiration for his work with Help Portrait).

Wow, so many really great photographers to stalk :D. That's awesome about your non profit organization. I linked it on this interview so I hope people will click on it and find out more about it. Its an amazing way to give back when you have been given so much.

13) Coke or Pepsi?

Coke. (regular - not the diet stuff! ew)

Ohh good girl! I am drinking a coke right now and I am reading through this interview (sigh) so good.

14) Knowing what you know now, what is something you would have done differently when you first started out?

I would have brought in an accountant much sooner to help figure out sales tax and all that. I was pretty clueless when I started and took the advice of others instead of seeking professional help. I learned my lesson early on in my business, but I really had no idea how much was involved when it came to that.

15) Something that I would like to know is, if ever, at any point in your career, have you thought about quitting, or doubted yourself, or hit a wall and wondered how to get over it? If so, can you give a little background? How did you over come that hurdle?

Oh yes. Absolutely. Yes. (did that get the point across!) Every time I would see these other "big name" photographers and the work they were doing, I doubted that I was good enough to make any kind of name for myself. I would get jealous almost! It was crazy. The best advice I had ever gotten was to stop looking at other photographer's work. It has saved me soooo much sanity! Now that I'm more confident in my own ability, I love looking at other inspiration - I just had to be more confident in MYSELF, first.

I think I am going to have to take that advice too. Its is crazy making. Especially for someone like me who just wants to be successful in my own right and tend to get discouraged in comparing mine to theirs or his to ours....

Kristen, what is this ring sitting on? sequence?

16) Who are YOU, other than a photographer?

I think my biggest role is that I'm a daughter. I have always been really close to my parents and hate how far I live from them. It doesn't help that I'm answering these questions on the way back to Florida from a week visiting them in Northern Ohio... so it's top of mind, I suppose. My personality is a bit of a mashup - I'm shy in big groups, a talker in small groups, I love to teach, I love to learn. I'm a bit OCD and really organized. I love Microsoft Excel and office supplies. I'm passionate about love and that "high school romance" feeling. I'm a huge fan of reality TV shows like So You Think You Can Dance, America's Got Talent, Dancing with the Stars and Project Runway. I also love shows like Jerseylicious, Law and Order SVU, and my favorite - GLEE (although this last season was a little disappointing).

Oh I love my reality shows too. My family loves America's Got Talent...we watch it from first episode to next the last. America HAS talent. I've had to stop watching shows like SVU, with 4 daughters, it was getting to be too much for me. My mind was running rampant with what could happen to them...so cut that off.

17) I have a huge purse love, do you have any fun or extraordinary talents or obsessions, that you’d like to share with us?

I think I'm obsessed with nail polish (OPI and Essie) and office supplies. I also have a prized collection of international fashion magazines and my mom's 'TEEN magazines from 1970.

Your Mom kept her teen magazines? Was she in them or collecting them? Come to think of it, I like to peruse the office supply aisle myself...I have three notebooks in my garage (of all places) that I bought just because I liked the covers...

18) Looking back on all you have done to date, what has been your favorite moment as a photographer?

Photographing my best friend's wedding. Not only did I get to be there with her, but the pictures are some of the most stunning that I've ever taken. It was both a personal and professional accomplishment for me.

19) What has been your best marketing strategy?

My blog. I hosted a workshop the other day and I explained it like this - if your name is your brand, then your blog is your personality. I can show people my images all day long, but that doesn't show who I am as a person. Photography is a really personal experience for my clients - I'm asking them to be completely vulnerable in their relationship, and I'm asking them to do it in front of me and my camera. It's not an easy thing to do! So I like to have them feel like they're with an old friend - and my blog makes them feel that way. I book more work from my blog than any other source of marketing or advertising.

20). You and your camera, across time and space, where would you go and what would you photograph?

That's a tough one! I think I'd go back in time (I love history and the fashion of different time periods) - so it would be more about the clothes. I have these old photographs of my grandma from the 30's, so I'm really intrigued by that time period. I also LOVE the way women were becoming frisky in the 50's.... and who doesn't love the swagger of the Marie Antoinette era?!

hahaha...that's fly.

21) What is the one piece of advice you could give that could be invaluable to someone starting out?

Take your time and be confident in your craft. It won't come overnight. We all have to start somewhere, and we're all still finding our way. No one knows it all. Use jealousy as healthy competition to make yourself better; don't dwell on what everyone else is doing because you'll never move forward. Take control of your business and your shoots and your clients will respect what you do for them. And most importantly.... don't discount yourself, your service or your value! You're only worth the lowest price you charge.

22) Lastly, what is one word in the English dictionary that describes you?

Ambitious. I've got some big goals and can't wait to make them happen!

Where can people find you, like you, and love you just as I do?

website site: http://www.kristenweaver.com/
blog: http://www.kristenweaverblog.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kristenweaverphotography
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/kristenweaver
eye color: Brown
Blood type: AB+
and favorite food: Anything with cheese!

eyefull photography with Creative Occassion!

2011-06-15T16:02:00.000-07:00

I think eyefull Photography and Creative Occassions are going to work well together. Through a series of fortunate events, I have been able to partner with a local party decorating to photograph the details of her amazing creations. I am very excited! Corinne is amazingly talented. All of the items in this blog? Hand made. In her driveway (woot!) Can you dig that or what? Corrine also decorates for weddings, parties...anything and everything. This Alice in Wonderland was for a slot tournament at one of the local casinos. Amazing! I can't wait to photograph more!~ You can find out about Creative Occassion at www.creativeoccasions.com.

eyefull: News ALERT

2011-06-10T19:46:00.000-07:00

My wedding photography deal seen here is EXTENDED to include ANY of the first seven brides, whether your wedding is in 2011 0r 2012~

Doesn't matter! 2011 or 2012...be the first seven to receive the wedding photography deal as outlined in the post.

Book a wedding with me and be one of the first seven do it...and receive some extra goodies as well! Including a free guest book! Check it out here

Open publication - Free publishing - More book

eyelet: new website

2011-06-09T19:13:00.000-07:00

This Arizona photographer is so happy.
My new website just went live! So go and check it out~
But hum to yourself, because I haven't figured out how to add music yet LOL.

www.eyefullphotography.net

and because a pictures with a post is always better!
This is a photo taken in a almost completely dark gymansium for the outgoing seniors Grad Bash 2011 celectraion

eyelets: eyefull spotlight

2011-06-08T15:23:00.000-07:00

As a new Arizona Wedding Photographer trying to make a business out here in the Valley of the Sun, imagine my surprise when he administrator of a blog called Disney Weddings emailed me a few weeks ago and wanted to know about a resource that was available for photographers and other vendors with Disney Weddings.
I am from California.
I love California.
And I love Disneyland and would be thrilled to be able to photograph engagements and weddings in and around the Disney property in Anaheim, CA.

Luckily, I had just finished photographing Wayne and Jamie's engagment and I had some photos to share.

My post is up here, go check it out.

Note: Carly, the administrator, is in no way affiliated with the Disney company, just an avid Disney lover providing a service.

interview with Stella Crowl of Style Image Studios!

2011-06-07T08:26:00.000-07:00

I first met Stella about 2 years ago back when I was just starting and she was gaining her stride. I think I first met her at Hamilton Pool for a Mommy group thing and then learned that she was a photographer when she took my families photo for baby dedication day. I swallowed my pride and asked her if she would mind giving me some help in getting started, and she did! To me, Stella was a drink of cool water in a dry place. So very helpful and giving of her time and her knowlege...without fear, which some of us in this field tend to operate from. If I had a question, Stella could give an answer. But thankfully, I have ran into more successful photographers like Stella than the other.

1) Introduce yourself and get the visitors “in” on your work!
Hi, I’m Stella Crowl, owner and lead photographer of Style Image Studios. I’m a very passionate self taught photographer who has researched and worked my way up to where I am now.

So I seriously love this photo of you. I know it was taken by our friend and fellow photog Angel Cupp of TCupp Photography.

2) I love your work. LOVE it…which is why I look at it often. How did you get started in the photography business, and when?
After I had my first child 3 and half years ago, I had taken her to a department store photo studio and it was the worst experience. I told myself that I could do this myself. So, I did. I started taking photos of her, then family, then friends and it just spiraled from there.

3)When was the first magic moment that you knew you wanted to be a photographer?
When someone said to me, Wow! These are really good, you should do this for a living.

4)When did you make it a full time thing?
I was working fulltime for a local magazine while doing my photography on the weekends and I just started getting busier. I didn’t mind my magazine job but my love wasn’t there. I became pregnant with my 2nd child and I told myself that when I go on maternity leave, I’m not coming back. I wanted to do what I loved and be with my children full time instead of being gone all day from them. So, I’ve been full time now for about 2 ½ years.

5)And I have to ask, because it’s a question that people are asking themselves anyway, what do you shoot with and what is your favorite lens?
I shoot with a 50D and my backup is an Xsi. I love the 50mm lens and my lens I use all the time is the 28-135.

6)Describe your style.
My photography is a mixture of fine art, traditional and photojournalistic photography while adding a stylish, glamorous flair to every image. I love to make my objects glow, I love the beauty in a photo.

I LOVE the glow! Sometimes it just makes the picture.

7) Your subjects range from newborns and children to seniors to newlyweds and families… what is your favorite subject to photograph?
My favorite to photograph is newborns. It’s such a beautiful experience. Especially, when you get shots of the mom and dad with the precious baby. Just amazing. I love the challenge of it, too.

While newborns are my favorite to capture, outside of this setting, my absolute favorite to capture is Fashion. I’m fashion photographer at heart. Runway is an addiction to me. I’m so proud to say that I’ve just recently joined the Phoenix Fashion Week Media Team. I’m now complete. lol
Thats awesome! Congratulations. I must say that your fashion photos are my favorite. I can definitely tell your heart is in those pictures!

8) What is something that you are still learning?
This career along with many others is a work in progress. You can never be done learning or teaching yourselves new and exciting things. With technology things are forever changing, so its all about keeping up and keeping it fresh. Learning different editing techniques, posing and designing, branding, etc.

9)What is the one thing that you LOVE LOVE about what you do?
I love all the perks that come with being a fashion & event photographer. I’ve had the opportunity to do some pretty amazing things…Kardashian event at the Playboy Mansion, Gene Simmons event in Dallas and much more. My assistant/husband isn’t complaining either.

10) I don't have a studio, so for someone who is looking to bulk up her studio creds, would equipment should I get first?

All you need to get started is a couple backdrops, triggered lighting and your camera. As, you go you’ll start building your props pile (which I’m sure you have plenty of by now), different backdrops, seats, tables, etc.
Well, I do have some props...that goes without saying LOL.

11) When you have nothing scheduled, where are we most likely to find you?
If nothing is scheduled, then it means I’m home editing.

12) As a photographer, I look to others, their work, their business model, who they seem to be as a person as viewed through their blogs or FB posts; if I look to you, who are YOU looking to?
Hmm..good question. For wedding photography, I look to photographer Jasmine Starr for inspiration. For my fashion photography, I’m an “America’s Next Top Model” addict. I watch it religiously, I memorize, I listen to the advice. I watch the artists work and get inspired from there.

13) Coke or Pepsi?
Lol Diet Pepsi. As of a month ago I was drinking this all day everyday. I made a change and I haven’t had it since.

Oh I am with you there on the diet part of the diet coke...! But I am all about the coke man. (Wait, that sounded kinda weird...you know what I mean).

14) Knowing what you know now, what is something you would have done differently when you first started out?
I give less images and I charge a little more. Lol After realizing just how much work goes into what we do, we have no choice. There’s a big difference between a department store photographer and a professional photographer.

15) Something that I would like to know is, if ever, at any point in your career, have you thought about quitting, or doubted yourself, or hit a wall and wondered how to get over it? If so, can you give a little background? How did you over come that hurdle?
I’ve never gotten to that point where I feel like quitting but I have doubted myself before. There was one client that wanted a reshoot but it was because she didn’t like how she looked in the photos. One thing that clients think is that we’re magicians and we can make them skinny and beautiful with the click of the mouse. A re-shoot isn’t the answer because it would be the same. I talked with her and asked exactly what she didn’t like and we worked it out without shooting again. She was a very happy client in the end.

That's great! I have run into a few tough customers myself, you have helped me with at least one of them! But it always is better to work it out with the client so that its a win win for both.

16) Who are YOU, other than a photographer?
I’m a Christian woman first, a wife, a mother and in my spare time I love to sing and dance.

17) I have a huge purse love, do you have any fun or extraordinary talents or obsessions, that you’d like to share with us?
I’m a huge purse person, too! Other than that, something that keeps me even more busy these days is my obsession for couponing. No, I’m not a fan of the Extreme Couponing show. That show is horrific. I do love to save money and I plan to be debt free soon! lol

Why didn't I know that about you? I should have guessed! I bet though we had better not go purse shopping together. Especially with the debt free thing too, which I am totally down with.

18) Looking back on all you have done to date, what has been your favorite moment as a photographer?
I would say my favorite moment, that I still get butterflies thinking about was arriving to the Playboy Mansion as the event photographer. It was a celebrity-filled night and it was great to be at this beautiful mansion while raising money for a worthy cause.

19) What has been your best marketing strategy?
One of my best marketing strategies would be networking. I’m a firm believer that networking is the way to go. I don’t pay for advertising, so this is the best route to get to know new people and bring them to your business. Other strategies, such as referral rewards, contests, etc, work just as well.

I am learning this as well. I am starting a little late in the game, but at least I am trying to figure this out NOW rather than a year from now. I believe this will make a big difference, though it can be hard and intimidating too; asking someone else to come along side you as you both build your businesses.

20) You and your camera, across time and space, where would you go and what would you photograph?
I would have loved to photograph the world towers before the tragedy occurred.

21) What is the one piece of advice you could give that could be invaluable to someone starting out?
Keep the passion.

22) Lastly, what is one word in the English dictionary that describes you?
Go-Getter.
Okay, so I am going to admit that I actually went to the dictionary to see if "go getter" was a word in there. I was thinking it was an idiom! But there it was...right there on the page, with a definition! go-getter definition 1.n. an energetic person.
However, why did I doubt? You creme me every time we play WordFeud on our phones...every time LOL

Where can people find you, like you, and love you just as I do?
Website site: www.styleimagestudios.net
Facebook: Style Image Studios
Eye color: Brown
Blood type: Negative 0
And favorite food: Asian!

Stella has also won:
Reader's Choice Award Winner~PCL Magazine
and is the latest member of the Media Team - Phoenix Fashion Week
www.phoenixfashionweek.com

eyefull: Hula Dance Studios, Maricopa | Arizona | California | and wherever else my camera takes me

2011-06-06T14:50:00.000-07:00

About a month ago, I was asked by the owner of Hula Dance Studio here in Mariocpa to photograph her dancers for their recital. And being an Arizona Portrait and Wedding photographer I said "of course."

Myriam has worked really hard building her studio and her students have worked very hard learning dance routines and sewing costumes this past year. In this set of photos, you will see both Hula Dancers and belly dancers. That's right, belly dancers! Ringa ringa!

Here is Myriam Valenzuela. She is the owner/operator and instructor at Hula Dance Studios.

The inaugural class of 2011, Hula Dance Studio students!

eyelet Interview meet Arden Prucha of Arden Prucha Photography!

2011-06-01T08:44:00.000-07:00

Well, I first "met" Arden on a forum that I belong to called I heart faces. I put "met" in parenthesis, because I have not actually met her face to face. But I have chatted with her on the i heart faces forum, groups, and on FB. I am simply amazed at how stunning her work is. I hope to graduate to her level soon and I swear, if she ever started having classes (hint hint) I would be on a plane in a second. I have family and friends in Texas...wouldn't be a problem!

I had such a hard time choosing images for this post. Every one was just gorgeous!

1) Introduce yourself and get the visitors “in” on your work! Let me introduce myself… I am Arden Jenkins of Arden Prucha Photography. My life is a little chaotic – 2.5 kiddos, my mate, a dog combined with a very flighty brain. We have a boy, a girl and a surprise baking! I love great food, snuggling with my entire family (who happen to all have P names, including our dog) and laughing. It is funny to grow up and never think of yourself as an ‘artist.’ I danced growing up, enjoyed art-related tasks, but would never have told you I was artistic. Photography, come to find out, is what really completes me.

Arden in action.

2) I love your work. LOVE it…which is why I look at it often. How did you get started in the photography business, and when?
Looking back, it all started when I was in elementary school. I would pose my neighbors and Barbies and photograph them. I even staged and entire Barbie wedding and photographed it – going down to the detail of holding the bouquet mid air while Barbie’s arms were in throwing position! I knew in 2006 that I really wanted to pursue it and was hooked up with a couple of girls who helped me grow. One being Heather Essian, who allowed me to second shoot with her for a year and a half!

That is so super cool that you photographed your barbies. It would be awesome to see those shots! I used to make houses out of books for mine with multiple rooms and passageways...maybe I should have been an architect! I think its equally "neat" that you had such a wonderful mentor to bring you along. I think it would be nice to be under someone's wing (so to speak) as you learn to develop your own style.

3)When was the first magic moment that you knew you wanted to be a photographer? In 2003 my son was born… I was enamored with him, picked up any camera around and began capturing. So technically I was a ‘mom-tog,’ but was only 22 and it was so long ago that it wasn’t ‘cool’ yet. I kept shooting, upgrading cameras and LOVED it.

4)When did you make it a full time thing?
In 2009 I had been teaching for 3 years and loved my students, but didn’t feel ‘gifted’ at teaching. I knew it was time to end that chapter and begin another. I have NEVER looked back.
I think I know how you feel with this one! And then to still be in a "field" that isn't where you want to be, is difficult. But, there is a season for everything under the sun you know?

5)And I have to ask, because it’s a question that people are asking themselves anyway, what do you shoot with and what is your favorite lens?
I am a Canon girl now. I have slowly progressed through equipment, but have the 5dMarkii. My favorite lens? Probably my 85mm 1.2 and I also love the unique quality of my 45mm Tilt Shift… though that is a difficult sucker to get spot on focus!
I would love to get a tilt shift...for now, will leave it to the computer to create this for me.

6)Describe your style.
Oh gosh, shouldn’t someone else? My friend Heather described me as having creative edge… I also think I have a modern twist and adore color. My goal is to show my clients’ love, personality and fun!
I think you described how [i at least] see your style, which is what attracted me initially to your photography. Clean, crisp, modern and color!

7) Your subjects range from newborns and children to seniors to newlyweds and families… what is your favorite subject to photograph?
This has been unfolding for a while now, I think after you do this enough you really get a feel for what you are ‘good’ at – or feel ‘good’ at. I really adore couples, brides and seniors. I believe it’s because I can put a fashion twist on those sessions!
When I first started out, I wanted to shoot only newborns. Newborns. Newborns! But as I started shooting them, I learned that I really liked holding them more than I liked photographing them. It really takes a certain level of patience with those little people and I just don't think I have either. I just saw one of your tutorials on newborns, which taught me some PS techniques that I didn't know about before- thank you! But, I love weddings and I hope to photograph them more.

8) What is something that you are still learning?
BUSINESS! Gosh, one of the hardest things I have ever done in my life. Running a business – but doing so legitimately, legally, and properly. It’s actually quite humbling, to say the least.

9)What is the one thing that you LOVE LOVE about what you do?
I love setting up moments that make me sigh - in love. There is nothing like looking at your work and smiling because you LOVE what you see. I get to create something that no one else can – my brain is unique, as all artists are – and my clients are amazing, beautiful, fun and photogenic. I am also grateful to be able to not work ‘for the man’ and stay at home with my kids!

10) I don't have a studio, so for someone who is looking to bulk up her studio creds, would equipment should I get first?
I actually don’t own a studio space, something I go back and forth on. Honestly it would depend on if you want a natural light studio or a studio filled with off camera lighting. I think the most important thing is making it professional, warm and comfortable. If we decide to go that route my space will be built on our lot, might as well spend the money for our own space rather than spend a lot of dough on renting!

11) When you have nothing scheduled, where are we most likely to find you?
Out eating with my family – we live in a great part of Fort Worth that is growing like crazy. I am so ecstatic about the wonderful restaurants that keep opening. Often times we are out in our front yard hanging out – sometimes camera in hand sometimes not!

Arden with her beautiful family.

12) As a photographer, I look to others, their work, their business model, who they seem to be as a person as viewed through their blogs or FB posts; if I look to you, who are YOU looking to?
I love the Lyons’ work – Amelia and her husband. Very unique and edgy. Something about Bobbi + Mike… I think they would be a blast to get to know! Light and Truth: Red Leaf Studios has some AMAZING and inspirational work. I stay connected with some DFW photographers and Stacy Reeves is a great business woman with wonderful advice!

These are some great photographers. I may need to add them to my list of ones to watch!

13) Coke or Pepsi?
I am not a soda gal… typically I will be drinking: water, wine or coffee. Healthy right?

14) Knowing what you know now, what is something you would have done differently when you first started out?
I would have focused on the business side FIRST. Seriously, it’s so important to get that stuff down and HIRE anyone you need to to help. Trying to do it all adds so much weight on your shoulders. Doing it all as an after-thought makes it so much more difficult.

15) Something that I would like to know is, if ever, at any point in your career, have you thought about quitting, or doubted yourself, or hit a wall and wondered how to get over it? If so, can you give a little background? How did you over come that hurdle?
I still go through that. I am really nervous about adding a third babe to this fast paced life. When this little one arrives we will have a 7 year old, a 22month and a newborn just before the busy fall season. Last fall was my busiest season yet… not sure I will be able to hang this year! I don’t want to quit, but if I need to slow down to focus on my family I am completely okay with that. They will not be tiny for long and I really want to cherish this beautiful time and make sure my marriage is strong and stable. Nothing else is more important than that.

16) Who are YOU, other than a photographer?
I am a lover of Christ, an unorganized, crazy, mommy and wife. I am a giver, a forgiver and an open book. I enjoy many things, but don’t take the time to actually do them – perhaps the procrastinator in me? I am also imperfect… beautifully made in Him.

I didn't know this about you, being a Christian, and that just draws me closer :D! I am a lover of Christ as well and I can't help but be drawn to other Believers. That's awesome!

17) I have a huge purse love, do you have any fun or extraordinary talents or obsessions, that you’d like to share with us?
I am really good at purchasing expensive things for less. Even my Beemer was 50% off! Basically I refuse to pay full price for items, seems so silly. I also love dancing around the house and laughing like a grackle. Is that a talent or a curse?
Uh...LOL. Now I wish I had some audio for this blog so we could take a listen and decide for ourselves!

18) Looking back on all you have done to date, what has been your favorite moment as a photographer?
Honestly, my favorite moments are when clients or strangers send me the kindest words. I don’t think there could be a greater gift. To hear the gratitude and compliments of others really solidifies why I am doing this gift I have been given. So many thanks to all of my supporters!

19) What has been your best marketing strategy?
Not sure if I have one really. Facebook has been the best marketing for me. My goal on my FB Business page is to connect with my ‘fans.’ Asking questions and getting conversation going is something I adore. I also think contributing input on I Heart Faces and The [B] School have helped me connect with other photographers.
Yep, I first found you on iheartfaces.com. That is a neat forum. I am also on B School but I am having a hard time getting into the groove over there, not sure why.

20). You and your camera, across time and space, where would you go and what would you photograph?
Realistically: Europe, the beauty, the people, the free life and love there. They appear to enjoy life more than Americans. Simple things like dining at a café at 2pm, travel and have month long vacations or have 3-4 hour dinners just talking, drinking, laughing, and loving. Sounds perfect to me!
Fantasy: Document Jesus’ life on earth… how amazing that journey would be!
That would be awesome! I think if we had pictures, more people might believe...but then again, its about faith in what we can't see!

21) What is the one piece of advice you could give that could be invaluable to someone starting out?
Do NOT sell yourself short. Practice and grow as quickly as possible and do not be the under-priced photographer. Trust me, you will be sorry in the end. There are too many of “those” now and as artists we must be faithful, confident and provide GREAT work even during the process of growth.

22) Lastly, what is one word in the English dictionary that describes you?
Fitting enough: Ardent 
(of which I was not named after)

Where can people find you, like you, and love you just as I do?

website site: http://www.ardenprucha.com/
blog: http://www.ardenpruchablog.com/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ardenpruchaphotography
Twitter: www.twitter.com/ardenprucha
eye color: gray-blue
Blood type: Um, I have no idea! However I am RH-Negative, which means my body can attack my babies if I do not have a certain medication during every pregnancy.
and favorite food: Right now I am loving scallops along with fancy salads, sandwiches and wraps. Mmmm, food is my BFF at this moment!

eyefull: Birthday Cake Smash! Arizona|California| and whereever else my camera takes me!

2011-05-30T08:25:00.000-07:00

Meet Colt.
That's right. Colt.
Such a yummy One year old. Today actually. One.
And today, I get to celebrate his first birthday CAKE SMASH! with him. It was quite providential that I got to do this. His family was a referral from a friend of mine (Terri Decanter) who could not photograph his birthday CAKE SMASH! She was sad not to be able to do it, but knew that she had placed him into capable hands.

We met at a park for the birthday CAKE SMASH. Colt just woke up so he wasn't quite sure what was actually going on!

Yes, we live in Arizona yet he is wearing a Washington jersey. So, the first question one might as is, "Are you from Washington?" Nope! Not this family. Born and bred here in Arizona. Its just Washington has been Dad's team since he was a young boy and he is passing the love of the team onto his son.

Thaat's right Colt, I am a little bit weird.

There's a smile.

Ok, I love this black and white. His face just screams "Humilation." But he is so stinkin cute in his Redskins diaper cover and matching hat. But as you can see, he soon perked up.

Yep, tha'ts right...even the cake was Redskins colors. Go Skins!

Happy Baby.

Thank you to Colt's parents for taking a chance on me. They had never met be before, so I am grateful that they trustfully took the referral from their photographer, my friend, Terri and allowed me to photograph Colt.

i love weddings. LOVE THEM! arizona|california|and wherever my camera takes me!

2011-05-29T15:52:00.000-07:00

I love weddings.
<3 them.
LOVE!
And I want to shoot more of them.
Being an Arizona Wedding Photographer has been great. I have been able to travel to California and Utah for weddings as well, and would love more opportunities to capture beautiful weddings for couples at an affordable price.
Beautiful brides.
Handsome grooms.
Everyone there to support and love the couple. Call me a romantic, but I love weddings! So here's the deal....

"The eyefull Wedding Rules" are simple:

Your wedding MUST take place in 2011.
Must be wanting to do a first look
You cannot enter if you have already booked with me.

To enter:

It is really simple, the first three brides who contact me, has a consult regarding their wedding day photography AND schedules their wedding with eyefull, will receive their wedding day photography for HALF OFF...yep, I said 1/2 off...do I need to say it again?...thats 50% OFF the package they choose.

The 4th bride will receive 40% off
The 5th bride will receive 30% off
The 7th bride will receive 20% off

(open to anyone in the United States, but does NOT include travel fees.)

So you will get HALF OFF the wedding package you choose. HALF!

Email dawniele@eyefullphotography.net or call 520.483.6913.

All eyefull wedding dates are extremely valuable, so a deposit will be required to hold your eyefull wedding date. All weddings MUST occur within 2011 and cannot have already booked with me.

I am so excited.
I <3 weddings. LOVE them~

Give me a call. Tell Your Friends.

eyelet Interview: Meet Erin from Studio-Boudoir!

2011-05-23T07:18:00.000-07:00

I can't remember EXACTLY when I first saw Studio-Boudoir on FB. But immediately, I knew I loved it. I actually went to the website to see if maybe the studio was located in my immediate area because I thought to myself, "Oh! Well! Wouldn't it be fun to have some boudoir photos done?" However, I am a complete chicken. Put me in front of a camera and I forget everything that I tell my own clients to do. But, it does give me a bit of perspective for what my clients go through when I am putting them through the paces to get the shot.

I have never met Erin Michelle before. But, when I decided to do a series of interviews over the summer, I simply thought about those photographers who work I liked and Studio-Boudoir was was of them. So I sent Erin an email about doing an interview and she said "Yes!" And I am excited to learn a little more about Erin, her business, her style, and her life.

1) Introduce yourself and get the visitors “in” on your work!
My name is Erin Michelle and I run STUDIO-BOUDOIR out of my home studio in Denver, Colorado. We specialize in classy, beautiful boudoir photography.

-I would love to visit Denver (someday soon I hope). Colorado seems like an amazing place with lots of areas to visit and explore.

2) I love your work. LOVE it…which is why I look at it often. How did you get started in the photography business, and when?
Thank you! I’ve loved photography for as long as I can remember. But I started boudoir a little over a year ago. I read about it, thought “I can do this!” and gathered some girlfriends as guinea pigs. We rented a hotel room and I took their photos. It was SO much fun and the images came out so great that I was HOOKED!

3) When was the first magic moment that you knew you wanted to be a photographer?
I think I had a magic moment when I thought I COULD be a photographer. I’ve always loved photography and dreamed of doing it. But there was definitely a moment when I thought, maybe I can actually do this and make some money. I reached out to some friends of mine who had successful photography business and they were kind enough to share their knowledge with me.

4) When did you make it a full time thing?
I quit my part time job about 7 months ago and have been doing just photography ever since. Best decision ever!

5) And I have to ask, because it’s a question that people are asking themselves anyway, what do you shoot with and what is your favorite lens?I am a Canon girl! My favorite lens is my 50mm 1.4. For boudoir it is AWESOME!

6) Describe your style.
I am all about colorful, dramatic boudoir images. I love big, funky accessories, animal prints, rhinestones…anything gaudy! Though I love shooting softer, more vintage style photos as well, the trendier style is really my favorite.

7) Your subjects range from newborns and children to seniors to newlyweds and families… what is your favorite subject to photograph?
I do shoot regular photography as well, mainly weddings and engagements. But my heart lies with boudoir! Making women look and FEEL beautiful is the best feeling in the world.

8) What is something that you are still learning?
Oh, I am constantly learning! You can never think you know it all, especially in photography. I never want to pigeon-hole myself and say, I just shoot outdoors or I just use constant lighting. I want to constantly be learning and adding to my skills so I can offer whatever my customer wants. I try to go outside of my comfort zone a lot. Lighting is a world unto itself and I am constantly trying to push myself to learn more about it. I don’t ever want to be so comfortable in my shooting style that I stop trying new things.

9) What is the one thing that you LOVE, LOVE about what you do?
Getting feedback from the women I shoot about how their session made them feel. Boudoir is a unique type of photography because your client is really putting herself out there and trusting you! Hearing from past clients how amazing they felt after their shoot and seeing them display their images proudly on facebook just makes my day!!

10) I don't have a studio, so for someone who is looking to bulk up her studio creds, would equipment should I get first?
I have a home studio that is about 10x10’. At first I thought I couldn’t do it, but it has worked out perfectly. The first purchase I made was my studio light kit from Wolf Camera. They are Smith Victor KT500 500-Watt Thrifty Photoflood 2-light Kit. I use them in every shoot and they have been great. When I started making money, I slowly started adding different lights/ reflectors. Also, backdrops were so expensive when I first started, so I had to get creative. Some of my favorite backdrops are shower curtains I bought at Target!!

-I know! There is one backdrop in a recent set of photos that I love see it here.

11) When you have nothing scheduled, where are we most likely to find you?
With my husband and three daughters! Being a mom is my #1 job =)

12) As a photographer, I look to others, their work, their business model, who they seem to be as a person as viewed through their blogs or FB posts; if I look to you, who are YOU looking to?
Some amazing photographers that I look at daily are Ashley Maxwell (http://www.ashleymaxwellphoto.com/), Junichi Arakawa (http://pixelartphoto.com/) and Brian DeMint (http://www.eyeworksphotography.com/). They are all different styles, but each one of them is a master at what they do!! For business, Sandi Krakowski (http://www.arealchange.com/). This woman is a genius.

13) Coke or Pepsi?
Coke!
-Girl after my own heart!

14) Knowing what you know now, what is something you would have done differently when you first started out?
When I first started out I was constantly bummed out when business didn’t come pouring in. It has taken me about a year to get my name out there and start gaining the client base I really wanted. I would say, be patient! Don’t settle. Your ideal clients will eventually come if you keep putting out your blog posts, contests, photos etc. Having no clients for a little while is better than having the wrong type of client on a regular basis!

15) Something that I would like to know is, if ever, at any point in your career, have you thought about quitting, or doubted yourself, or hit a wall and wondered how to get over it? If so, can you give a little background? How did you over come that hurdle?
Honestly, even when I hit a wall and was discouraged I never wanted to give up. I have a HUGE support system. My husband, parents and my makeup artist/ good friend Lindsay Ambrosio (http://www.makeupmadame.com/) have supported me from minute one and they’re always there to encourage me!

16) Who are YOU, other than a photographer?
Most of all, a wife and mother. I have a wonderful husband and three beautiful girls and a boy on the way (due in July!) Being a photographer is just icing on the cake!

17) I have a huge purse lover, do you have any fun or extraordinary talents or obsessions, that you’d like to share with us?
I LOVE the Muppets. Absolutely love them. Always have and always will =) Beaker is my favorite. Having kids is a great excuse for me to watch all my favorite Muppet movies!

-my girls (4 of them) have recently fallen in love with the Muppets too! I am busy sending Nana all over town locating different Muppets movies...I think we have like 5 of them now. But MY personal favorite is Muppets Take Manhatten. I remember watching that one as a kid.

18) Looking back on all you have done to date, what has been your favorite moment as a photographer? Probably seeing my images from my very first boudoir shoot. I was so nervous, I worked so hard and when I saw that they looked on the computer screen how I had envisioned them in my mind was the best feeling. It gave me the confidence to keep going!

19) What has been your best marketing strategy?
Word of mouth and social marketing. I don’t spend money on advertising. But I am constantly reading up on and taking webinars about social marketing. I don’t just write up a blog post and put it out there. I research the best keywords to use, the best time to release the blog post etc. Facebook and Wordpress have been my biggest tools for getting my name out there. And referrals are HUGE. If I get a customer who is putting my name out there and saying how great I am it does NOT go unnoticed!

-I would love to get some of that info from you. I am in the process of trying to do this as well. I find it can be hard when you don't necessarily have access to the "market" that you want. I would love to find out how you have been creative with your marketing strategies.

20). You and your camera, across time and space, where would you go and what would you photograph?
I’d love to travel more and dabble in scenic photography. Greece, Italy, New Zealand, the Caribbean…they would all be amazing!

21) What is the one piece of advice you could give that could be invaluable to someone starting out?
Photography is 20% being a good photographer and 80% business. If you don’t know how to price yourself properly and don’t have a marketing strategy, don’t say you’re in business. You need to sit down and think everything through so you aren’t going into debt or working for pennies with each shoot. Joining PPA has been invaluable to me. On the other hand, you do need to know your equipment!

Also, BE ORIGINAL! It’s great to have mentors whom you admire, but don’t copy! You’re only cutting yourself short and you won’t be in business very long!

22) Lastly, what is one word in the English dictionary that describes you?HAPPY =)

Where can people find you, like you, and love you just as I do?

website site: http://www.studio-boudoir.com/
blog: http://www.makingdenversexy.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/studioboudoir
Twitter: http://twitter.com/studioboudoir
eye color: Brown
Blood type: A+
and favorite food: Chicken fingers

Thanks Erin for sharing with me. If any of you [readers] currently live in the Colorado area, or you have a chance to visit, check out Erin at Studio-Boudoir. I bet she will make you feel pretty and beautiful and your photos will be amazing! If you have already been to Studio-Boudoir, tell me about it here by leaving a comment on this blog or on the FB page. It is great to virtually interview Erin and I hope to actually meet her very soon.

Maybe get in front of the camera myself for a session :D

my life...

2011-05-21T20:07:00.000-07:00

I want to make this blog, not only about the amazing people I am privledged to photograph, but about my family. my life.

Today, our family baked a pie (from scratch) for our church's Annual Pie Auction. This auction goes to help support the youth programs throughout the year and is the first time we actually made a pie to enter. And I need to find our ticket, or else the pie will be there but we won't!

Here are some of the pics from the process. Sraight of the camera. I don't want to get into the habit of editing every day photos.

The crust is made from crushed Do Si Do peanut butter cookies. That's Girl Scout cookies peeps!

Chocolate for the filling.

I bet you didn't know I had an egg seperator. I am actually a kitchen gadget junky~ Pampered Chef parties beware!

Stirring the chocolate mixtures so it went from this....

tothis.

Whipping the mergengue to make it light and fluffy. This was actually the second batch. Let's just say the first wasn't light and fluffy...and while I tried to stay on the side lines, Momma had to step in to whip them into shape!

We made two pies. One to keep and try out at home (delish) and one for the auction.

We hope that all the pies bring in money for our churches youth. They need us. We need them~!

Jamie & Wayne | Disneyland Vintage Engagement-California!

2011-05-19T22:02:00.000-07:00

The first time around wasn't enough...I had to go back for more!

I love traveling to California, especially when I can go to Disneyland to photograph engagement sessions or weddings! Like this engagement session at Disneyland Resort in California this past May. The first time that I photographed Jamie & Wayne (here) we were a bit rushed and it was crowded. I am talking wall to wall people. This time? Still crowded. I was like, "aren't all these kids supposed to be in school?!" Who knows? But it did seem fairly packed for a random Wednesday in May. But somehow it didn't matter all that much. It was a wonderful day. Visiting Disneyland and photographing an engagement session is always fun.

Last time, I was on vacation with my family and had to leave sooner than I wanted. This time? Traveled all alone and had all day to play. So I asked Jamie & Wayne if they would be willing to go back to Disneyland to finish the session.

Can I just say first off is that I love Jamie's smile. I know when she is having a great time because she wrinkles her nose. When I get a nose wrinkle, I know I've caught something magical.

Second, I love the way Jamie looks at Wayne. Be still my beating heart...this girls in love!

Love the Snow White Bridge in front the of Castle turned out to be a great place for private photos. This next set of photos are some of my personal favorites from the day. I think we captured the vintage feel that Jamie wanted to capture in both the engagement pics and at her wedding. I can't wait for November!

Last time, we didn't get to have any time for Mickey's Toon Town, so we wanted to make sure we got back there for a little light hearted captures.

The instruction for was Wayne to dance with Jamie. I was standing a few feet away and I made a twirling motion with my hand, to indicate "dance." I don't know that Wayne was feeling me....

Who holds the lock on Wayne's heart?

After a few hours, the wedding party started to show up. The guys were first! This shot is particularly poignant because Wayne works at Disneyland...at what ride you ask? Yep! Captain EO! Wayne did you realize where I had set you up?

Josh "The Best Man" and Jesmond "The Second in Command",

I have the hardest time posing men.
I am not a man.
I am not particularly versed in the way men stand in relationship to other men.
My instructions to a group of men typically are something like this... "Sit like a man sits" or "stand like a man stands." Which usually brings a few smiles, because in all honesty, I want men to feel comfortable and like men when I am photographing them.

This is what we got. I like it :)

This set of pictures makes me smile.
All throughout the day, I was lugging my rolling camera bag around with me. So for this shot, I set it aside and walked a ways a way from it.
Did I tell you that Wayne works for Disney? Well, I got a lesson in how cast members are to respond to a bag left unattended and if the cast member couldn't get my attention, they would confiscate my bag and it would be difficult for me to get it back! First of all, I wasn't really concerned about cast members, I was concerned about someone walking off with it, so I made sure to keep it close.
Jason, no I mean Josh, no I mean, "The Best Man" was really helpful in keeping his hand on it for me.

Details...

The Girls: Big Sister, Middle Sister, and Little Sister....maybe by the time of the wedding I will remember their names. Middle Sister (KC) and Little Sister (Shelby) are actually Waynes biological sisters, but soon enough (maybe even now) these girls are tied together in love already. Sisters in Love. Big Sister (Cari) is actually Jamie's Big Sister, Maid of Honor, and standing on Jamie's left.

a fun shot! Check out the heels!

The wedding party.

I love these pictures of Jamie and Cari. Being the only child, I am drawn towards the relationship of sister to sister. Its fascinating to me. I enjoy the interactions between two women who have shared parentage and history. Being the mother of four daughters, I just hope they are close and loving like these two...

And that is it. Until we meet again. November 5th! So excited!

But of course that's not it!
I would never leave out three of the most important girls in Jamie & Wayne's lives....Jamie's 3 nieces of course!

This is Nicole. I already love Nicole. Because Nicole is my middle name :)

One huge happy family...sisters in love...and friends in love! See you all in November!

eyelets: Giveaway

2011-05-13T11:17:00.001-07:00

The Maternal Lens is having a great contest with Bad Sass backdrops! Love them. Go enter and win!
If you win, and you don't want...show your favorite photog some love! Here

Kristen & David in Casa Grande, AZ- Arizona|California|and where ever else my camera takes me!

2011-05-11T08:39:00.000-07:00

As I am close to finishing the editing of the photos for Kristin & David's wedding, I am struck by a few more photos that have caught my eye. I already made one blog post here, but I do have a few more to share from their wedding day. These particular moments in time remind me of that day so vividly. Candid. Vivid. Joyful.

Kristin's girls were in charge of decorating the car. Which was a total riot because they didn't know what to say. But I think "Just Married" sums it up so well.

Kristin's simple decorations added to her beautiful day. Blue and Pink. Boy and Girl. Perfect.

Grandparents! Both were so sweet! Up until the moment they walked into the ceremony, they were back stage, putting together bouquets, helping to set up...the wedding was a genuine family affair.

These two guests watched me running back and forth, inside and outside. I had to capture their image too because they were giving me such a hard time.

This is the book that the Pastor gave his wedding ceremony sermon from. I believe the sermon was delivered by another family member.

David and his Mother. Is there anything better than that? I love this photos.

Yum! Food is always a good thing. This food was provided by Big House Cafe in Casa Grande, AZ.

So I had an idea to take Kristin & David out onto Cottonwood, one of the major thoroughfares in and out of Casa Grande. The sun was completely down. It was dark! But we had some fun and was able to capture the last bits of sunset in this frame.

A few more wedding portraits. Love these pictures of Kristin! From the bit I got to spend with her, THIS is her personality...sassy, fun, devil may care!

A couple from Father and daughter dance.

Let the party begin! Yes, we had Ken and Barbie dance, back spins, and the moon walk! You know its a party when someone busts out the moon walk!

Do not be alarmed folks. These Ken dancers are brothers.For laughs, I suggest you DO try this at home.
If you want to see a video of this dance, stop here. Such a fun time!

eyelets: changes

2011-05-10T10:06:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you need a moment to sit back and take stock.
Take a really good look of who you are.
I have been so busy running after the Joneses, looking at the neighbors grass, wondering if I should, could, or would....watching my FB friend number go up and down...all the while becoming more and more anxious as the days have passed.

I'm being truthful here. Here I go...

If you have seen me lately, you have noticed that Dawniele did not look happy. The truth is, I have not been. I have been wracked with worry and anxiety. The Bible had it perfectly right (funny how it usually does), "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, make it known to God." (Phillipians 4:6) It says be anxious for nothing. NO THING. Could God really mean my photography business too? If Im not anxious [about it] who will be? Yes, faulty, illogical, irrational thinking. Definitely not trusting. Definitely not thankful. Definitely not faithful. But I don't want to stop there. It goes on...whatever is true, noble, just, pure, lovely, of good report...meditate on these. I have not been meditating on these...

After all, why did I want to photograph people anyway? Because I love it. I love their faces, I love their smiles; their eyes. It brings me joy to be in the moment, photographing, and enjoying people who trust that I can capture their vision in pixels. I started photography because it has been something I have wanted to do for at least 20 years, and especially since my first daughter was born. Since I got my first SLR (not digital). But, my confidantes can attest to this: I have wanted to quit. Shut down the FB page, shut down the blog, turn off the camera. Even as early as last week, I was quitting. I LOVE taking pictures but wasn't happy with who I was becoming as a result of it.

Then friday.

Looking at my calendar, I saw that I had nothing booked and started to worry. But then a voice inside of me (it was my voice...I wasn't talking to myself, but you know how that goes)...a voice inside of me said, "Give one away." So I did. It felt awesome! Two days later? Gave two more away, and it felt really good.

Am I anxiety and worry free? Even as I set here writing this...fears creep in. But like the "Good Book" has shown, time and time again, God is faithful to those who are faithful to Him.

So here's what I have decided to do. Not only am I having a attitude adjustment, Im doing a business make over as well. Stay tuned. Im excited. I hope you will are too. You may not see me on FB a lot. You may turn on your computer to find that the FB page has gone and a new one is in its place. I read a blog post by Damaris Mia Photography back in March. She seemed to have a similiar epiphany a few months ago as I am having today. But is it really important to have 600 people who could care a little bit or 60 who care a lot, who know me? Know my heart? And know how much I love doing what I do. After all, what does it serve? What is my purpose here on earth? Serve God or serve man?

Be anxious for NO THING...love that!

P.s. I was going to put a picture of myself here doing something cooky, but I don't have any of myself! Crazy...that must be changed immediately ;)

peace.

eyelet: freak out!

2011-05-03T21:57:00.000-07:00

Here, I am sitting here, editing....its silent. Its wonderful. And what do I see in my photo? Take a look!

I may have been a little further than 50 feet...I don't know...I just think its awesome! I am still smiling! Love this lens!

p.s. Before you start to wonder, I did take it out of the final photo :)

eyelets: a Interview....with myself! (yep, I interviewed myself!) LOL

2011-05-03T10:07:00.000-07:00

How did you get started in photography? I was known as the family photo historian growing up. Not only did I photograph every event, I also scrapbooked them, like with albums and paper and scissors! While I don't scrapbook anymore, I still photograph! 12 years ago, we had our photos taken by a mom tog and I was hooked. I bought myself a SLR (film of course) and started photographing. Not for business. Just for fun. My kids. My friends kid. The kids of my friends friends. When we moved, I saw an opportunity to possibly start a small home business. My husband agreed and eyefull photography was started. It has been abotu two years and I am still growing, learning, and enjoying what I do.

Do you have beautiful photos you’ve taken displayed all across your home? No....I take a bunch of my family and then I get distracted and I forget to hang them. Plus, this house has almost non existent wall space and so where do I put them? The bathroom? The pantry? I probably could, couldn't I?

Where do you find inspiration to keep your photography creative and unique? My inspiration comes with those that I photograph. I love the people I work with. I have said before that I "fall in love" with them, particularly when I am editing. I am looking at their images so long, that I start to see the beauty where I previously wouldn't have even looked. I tell my clients, "You know...your husband is quite handsome..." and they just smile, because they know that I have been editing their photos and staring at their faces for so long. Its all in good fun.

Whose work inspires you? There are so many that I admire! Its hard to pick just one. Some of the indy's I like...Damaris Mia,from California is amazing! Studio Boudoir -If I had any guts at all, I would fly out to Denver and have Studio Boudoir photograph me...but alas, I have NONE! But I am tempted. I know they would rock it~. Chelsy Cardin, and I love love Arden Prucha out of Texas (I wish she would hold some classes or something! I would be there in a hot second!). One of my friends from my high school summer camp days has a business in Kansas, Ali Mocabee and another from my college days Robert Bell out of Riverside, CA have been so instrumental in helping me across the miles. Giving tips and support. Style Image Studios has also been very encouraging to me when I got started. I love when photographers can help photographers! Truly my FB wall is full of remarkable photographers.

Do you have your camera with you wherever you go? No, but I need to carry just my point and shoot I think. I have my camera phone but it takes me like 10 minutes to figure it out and the moment has passed. Funny how I can use my Canon easily and I can't figure out where the button is on my camera phone to take the picture.

A favorite quote to share? Sometimes I think Americans must have invented the exclamation mark-its in their state of mind." Monika Kochhar....Isn't that just wonderful?

How about a “most stressful” photography moment? My most stress photography moment occurs in the car heading to the venue. I start to freak a bit, praying that I remember everything I need to remember and I can keep my part of the wedding moving, and capture the best images I possibly can....and hopefully the couple will fill comfortable with me...and and and....but the minute I step out of the car, I know I was born to do this and I feel completely at ease. When I am shooting, I am calm, cool and collected

...I want my clients to be the center of my attention.

Do you have any major likes? I majorly like purses. I think its a fetish. I also majorly like chocolate, coke and bacon...not necessarily in that order and possibly not exclusively :)

Is there anything else you want to say? Well, no, not at the moment. But if you have any questions...just ask!

Thanks for reading this. I hope you have learned a little bit more about me.

Kristen & David in Casa Grande, AZ - Arizona | California | and anywhere else my camera takes me!

2011-04-28T14:17:00.000-07:00

Here's how it happened.
I am sitting at my desk and I notice that there is a message on my cell phone. Now, I don't always pick up my messages right away, so who knows how long that has been sitting in my "in box." I listen. Its from Chef Michael and his daughter is getting married on Sunday. Who is Chef Michael you wonder? Well, he is the owner of a restaurant in Casa Grande called Big House Cafe. Apparently, its quite an iconic establishment in Casa Grande. Their photographer bailed out on them and my friend Rosemary from Desert Rose Images has referred him to me. His question? Am I available on Easter Sunday to photograph a wedding?

Well! YES! Yes I am! I love weddings.

And that is how I happen to be photographing a wedding on Easter Sunday.

Meet Kristen. The Bride....isn't she beautiful? On the happiest day of her life, still planning details of the day and getting ready. All smiles! She knows she is marrying her best friend!

I found this red chair in the cafe and just fell in love with it. You will find it showing up in various pictures all afternoon!

I met David literally minutes before we took some of these pre wedding shots. He is a great man. Very easy going and kind of like "yea, okay, let's do it." Again, he knew that he was marrying his best friend so everything else was just easy.

Standing with David were his older brother, younger brother and best friend. These guys were really a lot of fun too.

Her best girls.

A great example of "you don't exactly know what you have until you get it out of the camera and take a look." Oh, and THIS is Chef Michael (Father of the Bride). Oh and yes, I do love the 70-200 f2.8...I think I will keep it.

a few ceremony shots.

Love love this shot.
Look at his face!
Can you stand it? I can't....oh the love there...so magical.

Here's Kristen again. Smiles everyone smiles.

a few ring details.

and of course the cake!

The first dance photos were just magical.

Thank you to Rosemary for the referral.
Chef Michael for the phone call.
Kristen and David for the experience! Congratulations you two!

eyefull: Bradstream Family

2011-04-20T15:31:00.000-07:00

Beautiful family...

made by this beautiful couple...

which made these beautiful kids...

Nope, don't change your dial...you are seeing two beautiful twin sisters...

and even after making these six beautiful kids...
The couple? Still beautiful.

and in love.
Isn't it awesome?!

eyelet

2011-04-19T11:44:00.000-07:00

Holy Schamolly!
www.cravemyphotography.com is giving away a fantastic 2 day training. I would love to particpate. But maybe you will win it! Go check it out here!

eyefull:eyelets

2011-04-17T14:25:00.000-07:00

Well, its been a busy few weeks.
Not anything in particular.
Just busy.
For one, I can't find the computer cord to our little point and shoot from Olympus and I have been looking all over for another one. Thanks to Olympus, you can only get the chord FROM Olympus...hmmm, I see that this might be a marketing ploy.
But, locked in statis ON that camera are all of our Disneyland Spring Break pictures and videos. So I will have to break down and purchase a new one from Olymps, though I may try ebay first.

Second, we have been working on trying to launch the website for the business. Finally launched here so go and check it out! My dear husband worked very hard on getting this ready for me.

Third, well, just busy with life. The end of the school year is proving to be more busy than ever. My question...why can't teachers just put all of the important, MUST DO projects at the beginning of the year? Maybe even the middle? But at this point in the school year, I really don't have the energy or the cares to do a science fair project, a project on ancient greece, and a book report complete with a tri-fold poster board! Really? And to make it 100% of the grade is just killer...

Anyhow, here are a few photos from our Disneyland trip, but this portion of the trip I took with my big girl camera and that is why they are here on this blog and NOT stuck in the camera still.

Have a nice day!

eyes on!

2011-04-12T19:10:00.000-07:00

You may rememer this family. Remember this and this? Well, thankfully this family didn't think I was too weird and asked me to photograph their family again, but this time with Mom's brother and his family as well. Seriously? This is the most laughingest family I know. They are always making jokes, laughing and loving each other. It makes for a great session when all I have to do is stand there and they crack themselves up [without me]. You may be asking yourself, "What is this?" Well "this" is Dad acting as my assistant. The sun is so bright out here in Arizona. Whether you shoot at the beginning of the day or the end of the day (like we did) sometimes it is just too bright and warm looking. And on this particular day, my stand wasn't going to stay upright (it was also blustery...the joys of living in the desert). Anyhow, Dad held my diffuser so that I could capture some soft photos of the rest of the group. Thanks Brad! Here he is again, holding the diffuser, but this time he is trying to get sister to laugh. I don't know about her, but I was sure laughing.... And finally, the reason why we came together. To take some shots of mom's brother and his family. Unfortunately, little sister came down with a nasty virus the next day, but we were able to capture a few of them all together. In sisters defence, they had only just arrived the day before (from the midwest) AND she was already feeling poorly. But thankfully, she was able to see a doctor here and felt better for the remainder of her visit with her aunt. This family is truly a fun one to hang out with. Thanks for coming back for more. Next time I want to go to Key West with you...show your favorite photog some love!

eyelets: new website! yayayayaya!

2011-04-07T07:32:00.001-07:00

Finally! Let me tell you, it was a labor of love. AND, if you really want to test the commitment of your relationship, do two things 1) paint a room together and 2) build a website together! Thankfully, we were "good" to start with anyway, but I seriously needed a bowl of Frosted Flakes after! :) Anyway, My website is live now...yay! Go check it out at www.eyefullphotography.net. Thanks!

2011-04-04T12:39:00.000-07:00

This beautiful Mommy is the youngest of 4 sisters of one of my most favorite families that I have met since moving to Arizona. In fact, one of her older sisters, I consider one of my dear friends. So, of course I was thrilled to photograph Bobbi and her two best boys one beautiful afternoon here in Arizona. Little brother is so stinkin' cute isn't he? Mom told big brother that he didn't have to smile during his photo ops. He looks so super cool (and I think I did get him to smile for a few pictures!) It was fun giving little brother prompts and cues...I would whisper in his ear and off he would go. Its great fun working with 4 year olds! Big brother tried to play it cool, but I think he secretly enjoyed this opportunity with his mom and brother! Or, at least, I like to tell myself that (haha!) Beautiful day. Beautiful light. Beautiful family!

And boys wouldn't be boys without wrestling in the grass!

eye on Seniors: Madison P.

2011-03-28T15:32:00.000-07:00

Meet Madison P. from the graduating class of 2011. It took us a few minutes and several phone calls to find one another, but when we did, it was instant friendship. As you can see, Madison is always full of smiles. She was willing to try anything with me and I appreciated that so much. Madison is looking forward to attending Scottsdale Community College for her first two years of college and then hopes to become a teacher. Until then, she is wokring her heiny off to save money so she can move out in the Fall to her own place. No roommates for this girl, she wants to live alone! DC Ranch is such a cool shopping center. Every building and store front has a different texture or color. This place is a treasure trove for photographers and works great for Senior photos. Congratulations Madison!

eyelets: Me and Tennis shoes part- the end

2011-03-26T14:13:00.000-07:00

Nary a few months ago, I was lamenting having to buy tennis shoes and why was I lamenting? Because, while at a health fair, I had my archs analyzed...they stand you on this machine and it analyzes how you carry your weight. And while I thought all the pretty red was good...uh, it was bad.

So last month I decided to make the plunge and I bought a pair of Nike's. It was really out of necessity, as my family was traveling to Disneyland for Spring Break. And while I would have loved to have been foot loose and fancy free, I knew that my feet could not take take two days of Disneyland and California Adventure and a third day of Lego Land, so I bought these! And because I couldn't decide on whether I wanted the black pair (pictured) or the white, silver and black pair, I got both :)

And by golly, a star was born!

Yes, I loved my tennis shoes and at the end of the day! Aaah! Sweet heaven, I would slip my shoes off and still want to walk some more.

I went from having no tennis shoes, to buying another two pairs of shoes! Yes, two!

Well, it was all very innocent! I went into Dillards because I wanted to see whatever there was to see in there (you know how it is) and they were having a sale on the Reebok Easy Tone. I figured if I have to wear tennis shoes, they may has well work for me as well (and get those legs and butt in shape as well)...so I got these babies. Yep, on sale!

They were actually cheaper than what Reebok listed as their sale price and they are called Inspire...I guess to Inspire me to wear them...but I digress...

Except mine are cuter...instead of the blue, they are pink...(ok, just trust me!)

and then I saw these! Super cute...Light weight (not on sale) but since I saved so much money from the first pair!

So now I think my tennis shoe needs have been filled.

My feet will be happy in whatever situation I find myself LOL!

Now on to a new purse for summer! :)

eyelet

2011-03-25T15:37:00.000-07:00

I know! I've been posting a lot about contests these past days, but winner takes all! I am a huge purse fan, so camera bags watch out!

Check it out here.

Good luck!

Sweep!

2011-03-24T18:21:00.000-07:00

I entered this contest! Its fabulous!! Go check it out!! Kameio Photography!

eyefll: 6 month old

2011-03-22T19:11:00.000-07:00

I photographed Brynn briefly when she was just a few months old. That photo shoot was for Christmas. This one was all for Brynn. At 6 months old, this little lady has stolen hearts! I started out with this photo, well because it is stinkin cute, with the crossd eyes and the raspberry blowing.

At one point, she had had enough of me! LOL and this little toy was all that was keeping her happy. So, it had a photo shoot too.

Are you in love too? Hope to see Brynn very soon!

eyefull: {Vintage Engagement}

2011-03-20T15:16:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to photograph Jamie & Wayne's engagement photos at [none other than] Disneyland...the happiest place on earth! Both Jamie & Wayne work there and wanted to take photos at a place where they spend a lot of their time, both professionally and personally.

Gorgeous girl! Can't wait to photograph this vintage wedding in November!

These were "love notes" they wrote to one another...without showing the other, until the message was revealed in the photograph.

eyefull:faves!

2011-03-11T13:15:00.000-08:00

I have to do this early becuase I am heading to the land of "Faith, Trust and Pixie Dust" and I won't be around on Monday.

Check out pet photographer Stephanie Riedel Photography ! I wish I had a pet, this would be great! Though, we are in the market for a bull dog! I guess I would then have to get up to Dixon, CA to have the photos taken. Hmmmm....

Lovein Boudoir photographers Studio-Boudior and Gretchen McFarland Photography! Awesome! I don't shoot this style and I am so glad that I don't...leavin it to the pros who know how to work the inner sex kitten.

eyefull: 2 to 1: Interrante

2011-03-10T13:29:00.000-08:00

Lets begin with a few details....
I was born in October...a cold month!!
OH wait, details about this wedding...OK, sorry (ahem!)

I have known Stephannie for a few years now. Our daughters have been in Girl Scouts together since they were in Kindergaren, but she is most known to our family as our community librarian. She gets us books when we need them...and being avid readers- we ALWAYS need them.

Anyway, Stephannie asked me to photograph her wedding and I was so honored. There are so many photographers around...so many really good choices to choose from. It is a blessing to photograph someones special events and moments in time.

We got together and I was able to meet Joe (he's the groom) and he is a super cool guy. Watching these two together, made my heart smile.

The wedding day was perfect. It had threatened rain, but thank goodness none fell from the sky (that's Arizona for ya).

Gettting ready...moments before the ceremony is to begin.

Joe was flanked by his son, his soon to be step son, and a friend.

Here is Stephannie's best girl. Her daughter was the flower girl.

I think they both started crying the moment the ceremony began and didn't stop until after it was over.

Love this shot with the cross infront of them.

Exchanging vows.

This is the brides father. I am always amazed at how a parent, giving their daughter or son away, can then stand up in the ceremony and speak. I will be a complete mess I am sure!

After the ceremony, we moved to one of the parks in their neighborhood for a few family photos shots.

I just love love this shot of Stephannie. It smacks of a 1800 Southern lady. The love and contentment, dress, the shawl...just makes this a gorgeous photo.

Stephannie with one of her best girls.

with her other best girl....;)

Gangsta cool!
OK, maybe that's not the most "appropriate" term to use in a wedding, but that is what I think when I see Joe in this thread of photos. Super cool, with his best girl on his arm....LOVE THEM!

After the park, the reception began at their house. It was an intimate affair, family and friends coming and going, giving lots of love and laughter. (SMILE) thinking about it.

This idea was so super cool. I just want to do it for anyone who visits my house.
So, instead of having a "guest book" Stephannie opted for these guest rocks. Smooth stones, that guests could write their well wishes and love on. Such a great idea!

Like I said, family and friends pitching in wherever needed to help make this day memorable for Joe and Stephannie.

Yep, this is the father in law...making pasta!
Love his southern drawl. He's from West Texas :)

These litle duckies floating in the pool.

What can you say....
boys will be boys...

eyefull....

2011-03-08T15:55:00.000-08:00

Lots of visitors...
not a lot of comments!
Leave a girl some love. I want to know who you are! and where you are coming from!

eyelets: Me and Tennis Shoes part II

2011-03-07T13:11:00.001-08:00

So you may (or may not remember) a few months ago where I posted my adversion to tennis shoes. If you don't remember it, read all about it here. Anyway, I finally, [with my family vacation to Disneyland, California Adventure, and Lego Land in the near future] broke down and bought some tennis. I actually bought two pair. Black and gray, but today, I wore the gray. What do you think? Not too bad and pretty comfy too.

[Monday} eye on...

2011-03-07T12:27:00.000-08:00

a few more of my most favorite photogs to look for every week!

Elizabeth Fiore Photography is located here in Arizona too. She is amazing! And I have found her (emails to be very sweet and kind). I can't wait until we can finally get it together and meet for lunch and a shoot. I hope very soon!

http://www.elizabethfiore.com/

Cardin Creative takes some beautiful wedding photos and hails from Nevada! They have some great spots for capturing portraits! http://http//www.cardincreative.com/

I "met" Twinflower Photography through one of my many groups I have joined since opening up shop two years ago. Twin Flower is a photographer team of twin sisters and they live in Houston. Next time I am in Texas, I hope to meet up with them and get some photos done.

http://http//twinflowerphotography.com/

I like Northern Accents maternity and newborn photography. Beautiful work!

http://http//northernaccentphotography.blogspot.com/

One of my favorites beyond favorite is Theresa Knight Photography. She is out of northern California. Her style is amazing and distinctive and beautiful. Another one that I can't wait to get up to that part of the state and have her take some pictures...maybe boudoir? I don't know, but would love to have her lens and editing style capture me! http://http://www.theresaknightphotography.com/

eyefull: Happy Birthday!

2011-02-28T19:58:00.000-08:00

Another one of my "babies" all grown up. You might recognize her, she made the "headliner" of this blog!

I met this little girls parents when Mom was 8 months pregnant! (click http://http://eyefullphotography.blogspot.com/2010/01/eyefull-of-baby-l.html)

At 2 weeks I met her (click http://http://eyefullphotography.blogspot.com/2010/03/eyefull-of-ms-lay.html)

and again at 6 months (click http://http://eyefullphotography.blogspot.com/2010/09/eyefull-lay-family.html)
and now, one year.

Mom wanted to do some studio style pictures, so I said, "Yep, okay!" and I love how they turned out.

Had to throw a few of big brother in.

Its HIS birthday too.

Yep, big brother and little sister share the same birthday!

Cake time! She only wanted to eat cake off the number 1.

Happy Birthday Zoe girl!!

(had to throw one in of Dad getting Zoe amped to eat the cake! too cute~)

[Monday} eye on....a few new faves

2011-02-28T09:25:00.000-08:00

I recently joined an online photographers forum for new photographers.
Not only is their knowledge to be shared and had, but there is INSPIRATION in spades. There are some very talented photographers around our country and I would like to highlight some of the ones that really BRING it with their "eye".

(I hope you photogs don't mind, but I know good photography when I see it).

Check out these photogs!

Kenzie Kate, is in high school but has talent all over the place! Check her out at www.kenziekatephotog.com

Damaris Mia, not only do I love her name! But her talent is off the hook. She's out of L.A.
www.damarismiaphotography.com

Jennifer Wilcox is brilliant with the babes www.jenniferwilcoxphotography.com

TLP Photography already has a huge following, so she doesn't need my endorsement, I just love her style www.tlpphotography.com

and lastly Tales of Love, a pet photog! www.tailsoflovephoto.com

Come back every Monday, where I will highlight a few more of my favorites! My list is long :)
Love my job!

eyefull: The Best Family

2011-02-27T14:22:00.000-08:00

Im sure this family gets this all the time...but they really are the BEST family :)

I met this family 4 years ago when we both moved to our current town, they from New Mexico and we from California. We attended the same church and then Cherise and I in a women's bible study for a few years. I think I had just had my second and she ws pregnant with that little red head you see in the pictures! This family has such a heart for God and a tenderness for others, I am like a moth to a flame every time I am with them. We don't spend near enough time with each other (and we live about a mile from each other).

This little lady is the 3rd BESTest child. So sweet. I was happy to meet miss A!

One of my favorite shots. I was also trying a little something new with the editing ;)

A sweet girl.
A lovely family.
Congratulations on your newest addition.

eye on this one year old!

2011-02-27T13:54:00.000-08:00

I have had the pleasure of photographing Jaden since he was just a few weeks old. Every three months, for his first year of life, I have gotten to photograph him. So, it was with bitter sweetness that I took thesse one year old photos.

I must say though...chasing a one year old around with a camera is much more work than photographing a three month old!

But Jaden's disposition remains the unchanged. He is such a sweet little man. And I must say his family is in.love.with.him...about that I do not doubt!

Hmmm, I wonder what this is....

Jaden did NOT wonder what this was. He dug right in.

and shared his cake with Dad, Mom, and Sissy....

Happy Birthday Jaden.

Oh My Bride!!!

2011-02-25T10:10:00.003-08:00

I was flipping though one of my new favorite young photographers to follow, Kenzi Kate, check her out http://www.kenziekatephoto.com/blog/ and she is only 17! Walla!!

Anyway, checking out her blog and came across these GORGEOUS wedding gowns...YES please! I'll take one! http://www.bhldn.com/

If you are getting married, or know someone who is getting married, give me a call!
520.483.6913 or dawniele@eyefullphotography.net

eye: on the Smith Family

2011-02-17T21:59:00.000-08:00

eye on the S Family...

2011-02-17T21:50:00.000-08:00

I met this lovely family, through this equally lovely family [seen here http://http//eyefullphotography.blogspot.com/2011/02/eye-on-smith-family.html] and what a great time we had together at this little spot called Scorpion Canyon at the bottom of South Mountain.

Is little Emma cute or what? Im just going to stick with cute!

Nothing a snack can't cure.

eye on the Rapp Family

2011-01-25T07:44:00.000-08:00

This family is one of my favorite families ever! No lie...I love them.

Enjoy.

And in order of greatness!
Big Sister DeeDee is so sweet. Always ready with hugs.

Big Brother...this kid is one smart cookie! Came in 8th in his entire class of 300+ students. And I just love this picture of him. He's so super cool don't you think?

Need a laugh? Look no further to middle brother.

Baby Sister...what can I saw about her? Another great kid. Youngest in the pack.

I added this picture, because I love the spontaneity of it.

I love this picture of the girls. Dee is looking straight on at the camera, Abba is super cool and then there is Mom...its just a fave.

Another favorite...I don't know why. It just stirs a smile within in.

Not to be outdone by their kids....
It took us several takes and changes of scenary to get this shot. Mom had saw some other photos that I had done in a similiar way...but of course all pictures are different, even if it is a similiar set up.

Getting into position.

eye on the Williams Family

2011-01-19T09:26:00.000-08:00

In case you weren't already aware.... 2 + 6 = 10!

These two....

plus these six....
Equals 10

What a fun session this turned out to be!!

eyelets: me and tennis shoes

2011-01-14T12:32:00.000-08:00

You may not know this about me, but I have kind of large feet. They didn't start off large. In fact, before I started having children, they were average sized. Normal. But four children later...and one size bigger (ugh). For the most part, that doesn't bother me. You know, whatever, its fine. Feet [are typically] a good thing to have no matter what size they are.

But recently, I have been having problems with my feet. It could be a combination of a few things...age, wear and tear, but I have come to the conclusion that I need to sometimes wear tennis shoes (with some kind of arch support) as opposed to flat shoes, like flip flops every day. In the summer time, this is near impossible. I live in flip flops and sandles; its too hot to do anything else. But for the rest of the year, at least part of the time, tennis shoes need to grace these feet.

BUT,

Remember, I have big feet. So to me, looking down to see my size xx encased in white leather is just not appealing. The other problem? The colors of tennis. While I don't want all white shoes, I don't want all black ones either. So I could get a combination of colors, but the color combinations for the shoes I am going to get are like white and neon green, or gray and hot pink (sigh)...

Haha! But its inevitable. So I will be purchasing, this weekend, a pair of Reebok Easy Tone.

I'm probably not getting this pair...because they are all white and all white with size xx = no good. But, they are pretty comfortable and wearing them around the store my mind was screaming, "Look at my big feet!" but my feet were saying, "aaaahhhhh, so nice."

That is until Summer hits...

or I need to wear a super cute outfit....

whichever comes first :)

Ciao!

eyelets

2011-01-12T14:54:00.000-08:00

I was looking at my handy dandy Oriental Trading Company Calendar, it was free with an order! It has all these little details and holidays and "special" days on it. So tomorrow is "Make Your Dreams Come True" day. Interesting.

So I thought to myself, what can I do today to make my dreams come true tomorrow?

Well, I don't know about tomorrow, well, why not tomorrow?:)

So today, I had a fabulous brand analysis session with The Joy of Marketing. It was very helpful to me. Starting out on my second year, I want to make sure I am stearing a clear course for my business that I am building and the brand I am trying to sear into the minds of those who meet me and photograph with me. So, there may be some changes coming. Good changes- change doesn't always have to be bad right?

I would recommend having an analysis done. Either by The Joy Of Marketing http://www.blogger.com/www.joyofmarketing.com or with another company that understands branding and marketing.

So that's what I did today, for tomorrow. But tomorrow is the actual Make Your Dreams Come True day. Hmmmm, I guess I will have to do some thinking tonight when I have dinner with my college roommate while she is in town :)

But for now, I would love to hear what you plan on doing to make your dreams come true this year....

eyefull: Cote Family

2011-01-11T08:35:00.000-08:00

I hope you enjoy looking at the photos of this beautiful family, as much as I enjoyed taking them.

This is a special time for this family...as a new brother joins the clan.

In 2010, I loved taking photos of the parents. These two are no exception.

One of my favorites from the session.

eyefull: Ms. H

2011-01-04T07:52:00.000-08:00

My second time photographing this little cutie girl. If you remember, I photographed her first birthday party. This session, was just for her as well.

The set up was minimal, as the photos were of Harmoni and not my set up. Besides, it was neat to see what she would do with the elements and how she used them for the session. I know...she's just one years old, but this little actress is going places and I am happy to be on board from the beginning.

Harmoni has got so much personality. Her mother wanted me take a series of photographs that might go in a modeling and acting portfolio.

Love this series of shots.
I just put her in the case and she did all the rest...

eyefull: weddings 2011

2011-01-03T14:39:00.000-08:00

Below is an example of what a "stand out" photograph is. Basically, it is a contemporary means of displaying your portraits without a frame.

eyefull:eyelet

2010-12-30T09:11:00.000-08:00

Gosh its been awhile since I have just sat and written a short eyelet about things going on in my life. The hours turn into days and the days into weeks and before you know it...bam! Its the end of the year! I can't believe it, can you? I remember thinking last New Years Eve that we had a long school year still left (with very few days off) and wondered how I would ever make it...now, I am like, "can't I have just one more week of vacation? Im not ready to get back into the routine."

First off, thank you thank you for helping to make 2010 a success for eyefull photography. It has been a wonderful year from beginning to end and I cannot express my gratitude to you enough. For 2011, I hope to continue building momentum, moving forward, charting a new course... And when the problems come (as they are sure to because we are not promised a happy life) well, then, that is why my eyes are set on Jesus. I can set all the goals in the world, but if they do not align up with what I believe the Lord has for me, well then, I may as well stand in one place.

So, where do I see myself in 2011?

Well, to start off, my daughter turns 2 on the 3rd, so I guess some kind of party to celebrate her birthday would be in order.

But larger goals?

*strengthen my walk with the Lord through daily devotion and prayer. The Bible says, draw closer to God and he will draw closer to you. OK, I think I will give that a try in 2011!

*stop with the negative self talk. I am my worse critic and I sure can tear myself down in my own mind.

*Take my head off the swivel. I know its hard, but comparing yourself to someone else can be dangerous.

*Teach my daughters to be ladies. Psalsm 144:12 says, "[my] daughters will be like pillars, carved to adorn a palace." I am charged with helping to grow them into strong, Christ loving, beautiful women.

Those are personal goals.

Professional goals?

For some reason, these are a little bit harder for me to figure out. I don't know why they are, but they are:

1) Move the business in the direction and the genre I feel that my talent and passion lie.

2) Don't be afraid if things look like they are not moving forward.

3) Continue training and learning. Do not stop. This will grow confidence and skill.

I hope that you are able to set some goals for yourself as well and give Thanks to God for all he has done and will do.

Happy New Year.

*

eye on the Jacksons....

2010-12-29T07:27:00.000-08:00

I thought about starting off this blog post with photos of the kids, individuals and groups...but then I thought NAH....my eyefull parents are awesome, so I want to start with two of my favorite photos from the session of the parents!

The reason I like this one, is that I barely got the words out of my mouth, "now we are going to Ki..." and they were like, "Yea, we like that!" and I was able to snap this one before the actual kissing began.

Love the softness of this photo. Being with the one you love should be like a breath of fresh air, soft, and fresh. Love it.

Let's not forget their 3 amazing children. I have known little sister for a few years now, but spending time with her brothers was a hoot too.

Little sister definitely loved having her picture taken; and I loved taking it.

Ok, so brothers, maybe not so much [wanting their photos taken] but, being handsome young men, I had to snap a few of them.

This session was for Christmas cards and the family had recently returned from a trip to Disneyland. I think the hats and the frame worked out nicely.

Who is this you ask yourself? And why isn't he in any of the "family" pictures?

This is big brother's friend. He was over to hang out with the family and where they went, he went...hence, why he is sitting on the fabulous couch wearing a hoodie. But he was a huge help to me, holding my reflector and everything. Thanks friend.

eyefull: Ortiz

2010-12-18T22:16:00.000-08:00

The first time that I met Cheryl was last year when she asked me to photograph Addie. Over the past year, my family and hers have become friends and I know that [we] enjoy our friendship with them very much.

Their son and daughter are super cute and very loving toward one another. Little sister adores big brother.

Love this picture!

I love this picture because it is so opposite of how I know these two. Cheryl always has a smile on her face and is so postive and encouraging. So when I see this photo, I smile...its like their alter egos.

Handsome brother.

Dad and his "mini Mike." You know how I love love Dads with their kiddos...this set of photos is no exception.

eyefull: Surek Family

2010-12-16T12:23:00.000-08:00

Meet the Surek Family: Dan, Kim, Danielle, and Kara.
I have know Kim for about 8 months, first meeting her in the Spring early this year.

This set of photos may be my favorite ones of the girls.

I like this set of photos with Kim and her husband. I tend to have a mini panick attack when I take the parents off to do some shots of just them. I wonder in my head...all in a matter of seconds mind you..."to kiss or not to kiss" or" are they going to get where I am going with this set of photos?" or "how can I capture them in their natural way with each other and still get the shot?"...and many others. As you can see, Dan had his role down pat...Kim? (hahaha)

Another pretty shot of the girls.

eyefull: preschool

2010-12-07T12:31:00.000-08:00

Got to take some cute photos of the kids at my daughter's preschool.
These are the "funny" faces they came up with (and yes, I did take straight smiling faced photos too).