eyefull photography with Creative Occassion!
15 June 2011
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
10 June 2011
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
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
eyelet: new website
09 June 2011
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
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
08 June 2011
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.
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!
07 June 2011
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
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
06 June 2011
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!
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!
01 June 2011
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!
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!
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