Mitzi's Studio Blog

cropping

2009-01-23T12:38:00.001-08:00

**click to enlarge**
I can't remember if I have posted about cropping here on the blog before. If not, it's worth revisiting. This is the same image cropped to various sizes. A 4x6 allows for the most room on the long end of the image. 16x20 and 8x10 crop into the image the most. This can be frustrating if you have a portrait of a child standing and using most of the vertical space. Cropping to an 8x10 might chop off part of the head or some precious little toes. If you get a cd from me and find that printing a certain size is cutting too much into your image, let me know and I'll help you through it. There may be more space in the original file or I might be able to add more digitally.

cute bookmarks!

2009-01-19T19:47:00.001-08:00

Just thought I'd share Megan's Valentine's. :)

LOVE Letters

2008-12-31T13:39:00.000-08:00

Wow, it's been a while. My New Year's Resolution is definitely to keep this blog updated. It was quite a busy and stressful Fall in the Mandel house. I am ready for 2009! Our LOVE Letters mini-sessions are just around the corner. This year, there are several digital packages to choose from. Each one has a freebie or popular discounted product.

The Hug - $300
This includes:
* 30-minute session
* A high resolution cd of gallery images including one image spelling out a
LOVE letter word
* Your choice of 25 postcards, 50 bookmarks, or 50 mini-folding cards

The Kiss - $400
This includes:
* 30-minute session
* High resolution cd of gallery images including one image spelling a LOVE
letter word
* One framed storyboard

The Whole Package - $500
This includes:
* 30-minute session
* High resolution cd of gallery images including one image spelling out a
LOVE letter word
* Your choice of 25 postcards, 50 bookmarks, or 50 mini-folding cards
* One framed storyboard

To book your session, a $150 deposit is needed. The other $150 is due at the time of your session. After you view your proofs, you can decide which package you'd like to go with.

Apple Farm

2008-10-03T22:14:00.000-07:00

Last year I posted about Riley's Farm. It's so much fun. This year, we went to parts of it that we've missed in years past. It wasn't crisp and cool like usual, it was hot! I met up with some photographer friends and their kids. I thought I'd share some photos from our day. ;)

Since it was so hot, we let the kids run through the sprinklers. I love this shot of my friend's little girl. Getting wet sounded fun at first....

Colors!!!! And a Mini-Session Update....

2008-09-12T13:41:00.000-07:00

I was recently asked what color backgrounds are available so since I made this little guide, I thought I'd share it here on the blog. The paper backgrounds (everything except black, white, and multi) are best for babies and close-ups. Click the image to enlarge:
An update on Fall sessions....Saturday mini-sessions are booked through November but I will be starting a waiting list. If there are just a few families on the waiting list, I may just add them at the beginning or end of one of the days that is already scheduled. Or I might do a day in early December. Weekday sessions are still available.

Fall Schedule Updates

2008-08-11T19:56:00.000-07:00

I hope some of you still check this blog. It's a lot easier than doing a newsletter. I wanted to let you know that there will be no more weekend dates added to the calendar until December. If you would like to book a session on a weekend day that is already a scheduled shooting day, please contact me and we'll do our best.

Also, I have gotten a very good question recently regarding print credit vs. cd for full studio sessions, park and beach sessions. You do not have to decide ahead of time whether you want the cd or the print credit. You can't possibly make a decision until you see your portraits. You might have a couple that you love and want as big canvases and would want to use the print credit. Or you might love every single image so much that the only logical choice is a cd. The cost is the same so the decision can wait until you see your gallery.

I just think this is cool :)

2008-08-08T20:58:00.000-07:00

I finally have my name as a domain name. If you can't remember www.photobymitzi.com or you keep putting in extra letters or words, your problem is solved! Now you can just type in www.mitzimandel.com and you'll find me!

If you didn't receive the last newsletter (sign up for it over on the right to stay in the loop), new holiday mini-sessions have been added to the calendar. If things go smoothly, I *might* do another day in December but those are definitely IT for Sept-Nov.

It's never too early to think about Christmas!

And because every post needs a picture, this is my Logan and his future wife after posing so lovely dovely for their portraits. I told them they could give each other a little kiss and this was their reaction!

PS...Logan picked his own outfit after MUCH thought.

another sneak peek

2008-08-03T07:06:00.001-07:00

sneak peek

2008-08-02T22:02:00.000-07:00

My tech guy is out of town so I can't post today's sessions on the website. I thought it would be fun to post a little preview. Here is the first beach family today....I love these kids because they are the same ages as my three. And they are SO well-behaved and beautiful!

What's Coming Up....

2008-07-12T16:38:00.000-07:00

For those of you who are not signed up for my newsletter, here is a recap....

July Sessions

I will be taking a few weeks off in August to adjust to my new teaching/photography schedule. The last day for a session to take place at the current prices and availability will be August 1st. Email me or call as soon as you can if you are interested in a studio, beach, or park session between July14th and August 1st.

What's Coming up?

What will sessions and the shooting schedule be like once the school year starts? I will be shooting 3-4 times per month to start and will decide whether this is too much or too little once I get rolling. The days will be pre-selected and will include at least one Saturday per month. I will no longer be selling prints smaller than 16x20 because every session will include a cd with all the high resolution images from your online gallery. This way, I can focus my time on shooting and editing rather than ordering and packaging. And best of all, you can print any size photograph up to 11x14 beautifully for your walls, scrapbooks, websites, or relatives. You will own the rights to the images and will have them forever.

New Pricing

The cost of a regular session (studio or beach) will be $600 and a mini-session will be $300. Mini-sessions will still be themed - Santa, fairy, bunnies, etc. All of the sessions will include a cd with the printable gallery images.

What about canvases and collages and frames? Anything you can't print from your cd will still be available from me: wall portraits 16x20 and larger, framed collages and storyboards, canvases, and press-printed cards and announcements. Those prices will pretty much stay the same.

I will occasionally run specials like our popular Mom and Me charity event. The best way to stay informed is to subscribe to the newsletter. This is how I will announce the shooting dates each month. As soon as I know my teaching days, I will release the shooting schedule for Fall and we will get started with our 5th annual Glimpse of Santa and holiday card sessions.

If you have a newborn under two weeks old, please call me and I will do what I can to fit you in for a regular studio session asap.

the rumors are true!

2008-06-28T21:34:00.000-07:00

At least the ones I've heard. :) Just wanted to stop by to let everyone know that I accepted a part-time teaching job for next year. It's for 7th grade math, what I taught for 10 years before doing this, and is at a block schedule school. That means I will be teaching every other day. I will STILL be doing photography. Naturally, there will be some changes. I am working on a newsletter and will send it out as soon as I get my teaching schedule for the fall. Make sure you are signed up for the newsletter (you can do that by entering your email in the box to the right). Don't forget, I'll be out of town July 5th-12th.

free summer movies

2008-06-12T06:22:00.000-07:00

In case you haven't gotten this summer's schedule....here are the free kids' movies offered at Edwards in Canyon Country on Tuesdays and Wednesdays @ 10AM this year. See you there!

06/10/2008-06/11/2008	Clifford's Really Big Movie (G)
	Firehouse Dog (PG)
06/17/2008-06/18/2008	Charlotte's Web (G)
	Alvin And The Chipmunks (PG)
06/24/2008-06/25/2008	Jonah: A Veggie Tale Movie (G)
	The Martian Child (PG)
07/01/2008-07/02/2008	Adventure Of Elmo In Grouchland (G)
	Water Horse: Legend Of The Deep (PG)
07/08/2008-07/09/2008	Doogal (G)
	Shrek The Third (PG)
07/15/2008-07/16/2008	Everyone's Hero (G)
	Open Season (PG)
07/22/2008-07/23/2008	Carebears 2 (G)
	Over The Hedge (PG)
07/29/2008-07/30/2008	Pirates Who Don't Do Anything - Veggie Tales (G)
	Monster House (PG)
08/05/2008-08/06/2008	Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium (G)
	Bee Movie (PG)

precious girls

2008-06-10T15:26:00.001-07:00

Long time, no blog! Wow, this has been a busy time of year for me and I wasn't expecting it to be. Look at these two precious, precious girls who visited me today in the studio. This baby's mommy sang in my wedding 10 years ago. I am so happy she's here. :)

And my almost-niece...my brother's wife's brother's kid. Confused? That's why I just call her my niece. :) Love you, big girl!

slowly but surely

2008-05-22T08:14:00.000-07:00

It looks like my email is working again and I am able to ftp to my website (which doesn't help because the site still isn't up). It gives me hope that the problem is getting worked on. Rob says it's on "their end." I'm trying to be patient. If it isn't up by tonight, I will find a way to show this week's sessions to those of you who are waiting.

In the meantime, I want to share my prints from last Saturday's SCVPA's print competition. I entered four and they all got some sort of ribbon. I was so excited!
"raindrop" - 2nd in macro, high scoring print, and got a judge's choice award
I've never gotten a judge's choice award so I was super-excited about that. There were 130 prints entered and this was one of the four judge's favorite!

"safe in daddy's hands" - 2nd in studio and a high scoring print

"so hoppy together" - 3rd in studio and high scoring print"sugar and spice" - high scoring print. I love this one....it makes me smile. :)

website is down :(

2008-05-21T16:16:00.000-07:00

And so is my email. We are working on figuring out why. If you need to reach me, you can call me at (661) 755-2242 or email me at mathcat@ca.rr.com. Hopefully, I'll be up and running soon without being too far behind!

SCVPA Print Competition

2008-05-15T08:54:00.000-07:00

I want to invite you all for wine and cheese, live jazz, and a print competition this Saturday from 5:00pm to 8:00 at the Bridgeport Clubhouse. This is the SCVPA's big annual event (in the past, it has been in the Fall but we've moved it to the Spring). Come see some fabulous photographs from professionals and hobbyists all over Santa Clarita. If you'd like to watch the judging, that takes place at the clubhouse on the same day from 9AM until noon.

limited weekend sessions

2008-05-12T09:13:00.001-07:00

I hope everyone had a fabulous Mother's Day! I had a great time doing four Mom and Me sessions in the morning before spending the rest of the day with my family.
You may have noticed some changes to the studio calendar. It's something I have promised my family I would do for a long time but it's been hard because I am such a "yes" person! I will no longer be taking appointments on Sundays and I will only be shooting two Saturdays per month. There will be a price increase in weekend mini-sessions (from $50 t0 $75) and weekend park sessions (from $75 to $100) beginning June 1st. Anything booked and paid for this month (even if it takes place after June 1st) will be at the current price. I will still do weekday afternoons at the weekday rate to accommodate working families and school aged children.
I am spending most of this week preparing for the arrival of new carpet - it's about time! Have a wonderful week!

my fairy

2008-05-08T21:46:00.001-07:00

Mom and Me Update

2008-05-08T09:36:00.000-07:00

The Mom and Me calendar is full and once again, I received a bigger response than I was expecting. Remember to hug your moms on Mother's Day for me! :) A BIG thank you to the following families for participating....

The Herb Family
The Stefanelli Family
The Black Family
The Pierson Family
The Brady Family
The Klugman Family
The Egleston Family
The Barreto Family
The Onori Family
The Burrill Family
Bob Mandel
The Mather Family
The LaVallee Family
The Russo Familyi
The Fernandez Family
The Bartel Family

{sneak peek}

2008-04-26T23:06:00.000-07:00

We had a busy day in the Mandel house today - 2 tee-ball games, four park sessions, and three parties. I am not done editing today's sessions but there were some images I just *had* to work on before going to bed. Here are some sneak peeks for today's fairy sessions.

Mom and Me Sessions

2008-04-21T12:26:00.001-07:00

Hello Everyone! Mother's Day is around the corner so I've decided to do three days of Mom and Me Mini-Sessions to raise money for my mother's memorial fund. We did this last year and raised over $2500! I promised everyone that I would do them again but have just been so busy. The three days are on the calendar - one before Mother's Day, one the morning of Mother's Day (for those of you who will be getting together and dressing up anyway!), and one after Mother's Day. Gift certificates are available if you'd like to present your mother with one.

Mom and Me mini-sessions last 30 minutes and include an 8x10 portrait and your choice of a 4x8 mounted mini-storyboard and easel or a second 8x10. Your entire $100 fee will be donated to the Maureen Burrill Memorial Fund for Breast Cancer Research and is entirely tax deductible.

Click here to read all about my mother, her memorial fund, your tax-deductible donation, and the mini-sessions themselves.

reminder: free movie Friday at COC

2008-04-17T21:38:00.000-07:00

Hi Guys! Just a reminder that COC is showing Peter Pan tomorrow, Friday the 18th, at 4:00. It's free and fun. :) There is a presentation tomorrow before the movie at 3:00, featuring Kathryn Beaumont who was the voice of Wendy in the 1953 film. Also, Margaret Kerry will be there. She was the live-action reference model for Tinker Bell. Sounds like an interesting afternoon followed by a kid-friendly movie!

Think BIG!

2008-04-10T14:54:00.000-07:00

I've always wanted to offer the 3x3 collage in a bigger size. Here it is - framed as a 20x20! This collage will now be available as a framed 14x14 or 20x20 piece with. Like always, the finished product will have a mat with nine openings and come with a sealed back ready to hang. Megan is holding the 14x14 and the 20x20 is by her feet for comparison.

Congratulations, Amber!

2008-04-10T06:46:00.001-07:00

Some people just don't enjoy being kissed by a bunny!!
Your family will receive a free beach session!

VOTE NOW for the Cutest Bunny Photo of 2008!

2008-04-06T15:18:00.001-07:00

Here's how it works...choose your favorite bunny portrait from the choices below. Use the corresponding number to vote and help that family win a free beach session! Voting will end on Wednesday, April 9th at midnight. If your child is in the contest, feel free to have all your friends and family place a vote. One vote per household, please. Have fun and good luck!

***Click Image to Enlarge***

new wings, new backdrop

2008-04-03T19:14:00.000-07:00

I am so excited about my new wings & halo and backdrop! I still have ivory wings and a second backdrop coming. I felt like trying something new and I'm thrilled with the results. My seven year old angel. She's growing up way too fast (I'm sure you can all relate).

bubblefest!

2008-04-02T15:28:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone -
The kids and I just got back from the Discovery Science Center (that big cube you see off the freeway by Angels Stadium). I had never been there before and it was really fun! We went to the Bubblefest show and it was amazing! The kids LOVED it. I had no idea so many things could be done with bubbles. You have to pay extra for the show but it was totally worth it. Bubblefest runs through Sunday. :)

what's the email newsletter all about?

2008-03-31T10:22:00.000-07:00

I'm glad you asked! A long time ago, I sent out email newsletters about once a month. Then I started the blog and that replaced the newsletter. There are some families who prefer the newsletter so I have decided to do both. If I have your email, I will be adding you to the list over the next few weeks. If you'd like to add yourself, please do so in the box to the right. After the first newsletter, you will be able to "unsubscribe" if you'd rather not receive it.

cutest bunny photo contest update

2008-03-30T20:20:00.000-07:00

HI everyone! Since I added one more bunny day, I am going to wait until it's complete to start the contest. So keep sending entries all week. I think I have the bugs worked out of the poll system to keep it from getting out of hand this time! :)

away for the weekend

2008-03-28T11:49:00.000-07:00

Hi All! Megan and I will be gone Fri-Sun so I will be able to answer calls and emails on Monday. Keep those bunny entries coming!

Cutest Bunny Photo of 2008 Contest

2008-03-26T14:37:00.000-07:00

It's that time again - The Cutest Bunny Photo Contest! To enter, you just need to email me with the image number or description of your favorite photo. The only requirements are that it needs to be from this year and have a bunny in it! :) The contest will begin on Monday so entries should be in by midnight Sunday night. We will put it to a vote and the winner will receive a free beach session! Good luck!

fairies

2008-03-10T22:13:00.000-07:00

Three Fairy Mini-Session days have been added to April. There are two outdoor days and one studio day. Fairy sessions at the park are recommended for princesses who can stand on their own. :) There will not be any more days added for these mini-sessions.

As always, I have lots of fairy costumes and pettiskirts to use but since many of you like to bring your own, here are some places to find cute things!

Lily Anna for Girls (tutus, wings, and fairy accessories)
The Beloved Child (pettiskirts)
FAO Schwarz (fairy costumes)
Chasing Fireflies (pettiskirts and the cutest stinking clothes!)
Heart to Heart (fairy costumes, tutus, wings, and more!)

free movies at coc

2008-03-10T22:00:00.000-07:00

*click to enlarge*
COC is hosting free family fun nights one a month. Actually, they are family fun afternoons. :) We went last month and it was great. They TELL the kids that they don't have to stay quiet which is great since mine usually don't. The staff is planning a couple of surprise guests at some of the upcoming movies so if you have the time, it's a nice way to spend a Friday afternoon! The next one is this Friday and starts at 4:00.

charlotte's web

2008-03-03T19:54:00.000-08:00

My long-time friends, Tony and Dorie Sanders, are part of a children's theater group called Shine. We have been to several performances and are always so thrilled! I thought I'd share their most recent production - Charlotte's Web - playing this weekend and next. We'll be going the last weekend - can't wait!! Click to enlarge.

meet lucky, roley, and sally!

2008-02-29T21:40:00.000-08:00

It's time to meet the rest of the bunnies! First up is Lucky. He got his name because someone abandoned him and he was lucky enough to find his way to our driveway last year. He is the sweetest guy. He loves to be held upside down like a baby and has trouble staying awake for sessions! How cute is Sally? She has grown a lot since last year and is still just the softest, most adorable little lop ever!

This is Roley. He was born here last March so this will be his first official year. He has cool little markings on his head - a lighter diamond-shaped patch and a little bunny mohawk!

There are a couple more bunny days on the calendar for April. I know that's after Easter but if you are like me, you aren't ready for Easter yet! Soon, I will be adding fairies and beach days to the calendar.

meet brandy

2008-02-23T07:15:00.001-08:00

It's time to meet the bunnies! Yesterday was my first "official" session this year with a bunny involved. I brought in Brandy since she is the most experienced one. This will be her third year. As most of you know, her original name was Brandon but then she had babies so we needed to change it to something more feminine! Here are some shots of her with yesterday's little cutie.

Not all kids like to be kissed by a bunny...

Stay tuned for more bunny bios!

5 free tickets to legoland - TAKEN

2008-02-19T15:35:00.000-08:00

Update: The tickets have found a home. :)

That's right. I have five tickets that have to be used by the end of the month. I realize that's only 10 days away but I really thought we'd use them. We are just out of free time for the month. The first person to speak up gets 'em! :)

give me attitude!

2008-02-16T16:14:00.000-08:00

Logan got new glasses today so of course, I had to have a session with him to document the big day. I shot this at Mentryville, an abandoned oil town at the end of Pico Canyon. That would be a funky, different place if anyone wants to go there for a park a session. :) I told my kids to give me attitude and this is what I got!

as promised...

2008-02-09T20:10:00.000-08:00

Here's our first "trash tie" creation from someone who is hair challenged. We'll have to practice some more... =)

weirdest kid tip yet

2008-02-03T09:22:00.000-08:00

You're all going to think I am so weird after this post. I know so many of your little ones get that red, chappy skin with this winter weather. Logan used to get it SO bad. I'd drop off a perfect little boy at school and pick up a miserable, red-faced guy later on. I finally found something that works. On the night of his worst cold weather rash ever, I put this Aquaphor on his face before bed and he woke up completely better. Now I put a little bit on his face every single day to prevent rashes. Logan has really sensitive skin - breaks out with most sun screen, soap, and lotions so this stuff is really gentle. Available at any drug store. There's my little tip of the week. :)

cool hair ties

2008-01-27T07:39:00.000-08:00

I just ordered some of these. Once they come and I try them out, I'll post pics. You have to check them out if you like to style your girls' hair or your own! :) They're called trash ties...see the website here and the styles you can create here.

new chairs!

2008-01-24T19:11:00.000-08:00

So, you all know I love kid chairs and use them a lot in my sessions. Last week, I found a super-cute one. Then another. Then 7. :) I think it will be good to have a couple taller stools because so many of my favorite little people are getting big!

I broke out the new white stool today and gave my kids lolipops as bribes. :)

As always with my kids, things got crazy fast.

My favorite chair, the one that made me start hunting for more, is this little pink leather one....

I thought this little wooden stool would be great for fairies to sit on top of. But look how cute it will be with bunnies! This guy, by the way, is Roley. He's the baby that was born last March and was solid light gray like his mommy. They change so much the first year, just like real babies.

critters

2008-01-14T09:01:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I posted something fun to do. Lots of you will already know about this pet store because you are the ones who told me! :) But many of my families have new parents so we have to let them in on all the fun little secrets around town....

These were taken at Valencia Pet, on the corner of Newhall Ranch and Copper Hill. They let you hold anything that can survive in a kid's hands. It's a pretty exotic little store - no puppies or kittens usually. Lots of fish and reptiles. Out of all the critters there, the only thing I could get talked into owning is a frog. But NEVER tell my children I said that.

Here is a little (tiny - like a quarter) blue tree frog.

and a green one

We found Nemo!And Dory!

And this crazy guy. He had the run of the store. The boys wouldn't touch him.

Oh, but we all LOVED the baby turtles. I could get talked into owning one of these if they didn't grow to be 4 feet across! Those are Nathan's hands. =)

Who wants to see pictures of my "other" kids?

2008-01-10T14:44:00.003-08:00

Diego and JoJo, my other models.....

And speaking of animals, Easter is March 23rd. Can you believe it? I just put away my Christmas stuff! I added Bunny Session dates to the calendar yesterday for the end of Feb/beginning of March.

See the posts below this one for fun new Valentine's Day offerings!

new goodies for Valentine's Day

2008-01-09T13:14:00.000-08:00

We have a couple new items just in time for Valentine's Day. Anyone who books a LOVE Letters session will be able to purchase mini folding cards or double-sided postcards. The mini folding cards are about the size of a bookmark folded in half. They are super-cute as Valentine's for school, mommy & me classes, playmates, Sunday School friends, dance & sports friends, and family! Samples will be here in the studio for you to see when you come for your session!

**click on each image to see it larger**

The other new item is a double-sided postcard. This is printed on cardstock, not photo paper, and is sized 4 x 5.5 (a little smaller than a 4x6 print). Envelopes are included.

And as we've done in past years, the 10x20 framed LOVE storyboard is offered at $50 off for anyone who comes to a LOVE Letters session.

who wants to see pictures of my kids?

2008-01-04T15:18:00.001-08:00

Well, since I can't hear your answer, here they are! :) We did our LOVE letters yesterday so I don't have to worry about it later. I figure that as long as they still call it, "ValentiMe's Day," I can still use them as models. =)

fun new things for Valentine's Day!

2008-01-02T14:03:00.001-08:00

I'll be back in about a week to post some pictures of new cards that will be available for the LOVE Letters mini-sessions, but right now I want to show you some fun new props we have this year. Joining our letter collection, are these fun purple polk-a-dot LOVE letters....

and these giant red HUG letters....

I also added a couple new pettiskirts . Now available to use are plain red, red with white trim, light pink, hot pink, teal, and brown with blue trim.And look at these fabulous new wings! I have red in big and little sizes and purple in a big size. FUN stuff! I am getting excited about our next mini-session event.

A few new posts have been added to the blog in the last week so read below this to catch up!!

changes for 2008

2007-12-31T18:39:00.000-08:00

I published a new post but it's below the "make-your-own-blog" post. I think since I started working on it a few days ago, it appears older. Anyway, to check out what's new this year, read two posts down. :) Happy New Year, Everyone!!

A New Year's Challenge

2007-12-28T11:15:00.000-08:00

I'm back! :) January 1st is in FOUR days! I did something in 2007 that was so much fun for me, my kids, and all my faraway (and nearby!) family and friends! I created a FREE, user-friendly photo-of-the-day blog. You can make one, too! In fact, I challenge you to take a photo each day of 2008 and post it on your 365 blog. Many of you joined me this year and I had a great time seeing all the fun you had with your kids! There are several places that host blogs. Typepad.com and Wordpress.com are a little fancier and charge a fee. I use Blogger.com because it is fast, free, and easy. Maybe if enough of you join me, we can add links to our blogs right here on this one! Here are the details:

To see my 365 blog, click here.
To view my family blog, click here.
To start your own blog, click here.
To email me with questions or to tell me that you made a blog of your own, click here.

HAVE FUN!!

Changes for the New Year

2007-12-28T07:16:00.000-08:00

Each year as my business grows, there are changes I need to make to keep things running smoothly. There will be several changes for 2008 and they are pretty random so I will just make an old fashioned list.

1) Plan ahead for the holidays! I won't be shooting anything in December next year. I am thankful for being so busy this year but I am only one person and I'll admit I took on more than I should have. I ended up getting sick and having to cancel several sessions with no time left to reschedule in time for holiday cards. I have to leave December open for ordering & packaging, and unforeseen hurdles such as reprinting, illness, and storms that delay packages. So, no shooting in December. I always make exceptions for newborns though.
2) Santa sessions. These have gotten super-popular so I'd like to start them sooner so no one gets turned away next year. Santa sessions that take place in August and September will be at the regular mini-session price of $50. Santa sessions that take place in October and November will be $75. That should help get you revved up for Christmas sooner and help me by spreading my Fall sessions out.
3) Jewelry. I will no longer be offering jewelry. As I type this draft on December 28th, I am STILL waiting on 9 pieces that were promised to me by Christmas. There truly was an act of God, an ice storm and loss of power to the jeweler's town for a week that caused this. Although completely out of my hands, I feel responsible and so sad that many of you did not have gifts in time for the holidays. I like to have control. :) I still LOVE the jewelry and am a little addicted to it as you all know. It's beautiful and worth the wait in my opinion. If you ever want to order something, I'd be happy to do it for you, just don't count on it for a certain date.
4) Session fees. In 2007, I required half the session fee as a deposit and the other half at the session. This was a great change because no one left me hanging this year! There were several times when I forgot to collect the other half of the fee at the session and all that extra "business stuff" takes up valuable shooting time when we are on a schedule. So, for the new year, the entire session fee will be required up front to book a session. Cancellation policies (on the "details" page of the website) have not changed and will still apply.

5) Beach Sessions. I have decided to make beach sessions longer and take fewer appointments in one morning. Instead of 30 minutes, they will last 45 minutes and I will only take 2 families in a single morning. The beach session fee will now be the same as a studio session, $100 on weekdays and $150 on weekends. I am looking forward to having more beach time with you and being able to capture both posed and fun candid images of your family.

6) Collections and CDs. I sold lots of cds this holiday season and I am aware that this is something more and more families like to have from their session. My concern has always been the quality of the finished print. The same image printed at five different labs, will have five different looks. The pro lab I use is calibrated with my monitor and everything you get is approved first by me. I am in the process of re-doing the collections to include a cd instead of a set of proofs. It's important to me that the cd be available only after prints are purchased that reflect the quality of my work. Expect to see those changes soon. :)

2008 updates coming soon!

2007-12-27T18:50:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone! I hope you had a wonderful holiday with your families. I want to thank each of you for letting me be a part of your precious memories this year.

Congratulations to the Valentino Family for winning the Cutest Santa Photo contest. There sure were some fun shots this year!

The LOVE letters sessions are booking now - there is one more weekend spot left.

I am working on fine tuning some things for 2008 so I'll be back in a few days with announcements & a fun New Year's challenge!

VOTE NOW: Cutest Santa Photo of 2007

2007-12-21T21:35:00.001-08:00

Below are some of my favorite Santa images from the season. Vote for your favorite one! If your child is in the contest, feel free to tell everyone you know to vote! The winner will receive a FREE LOVE Letters Mini Session in January and a set of 50 new mini-cards to use as Valentine's (pictured below). Voting will close at 6AM on Christmas Morning. Have fun!

PS....this is a cutest PHOTO contest, not a cutest child contest because as we all know, every single one of these kiddos is adorable!

**click images to enlarge***

baby legs

2007-12-19T21:56:00.000-08:00

Have you guys heard of Baby Legs? I haven't seen them in real life but I've noticed lots of babies wearing them in portraits on the photography forums that I frequent. Looks like they are also available at Target so I'll have to look tomorrow. It says they fit babies - 10 years. I'll post pictures if I find some. I just think they are so cute and would make diapering a baby in cold weather easier and would keep a picky seven year-old's legs warm (especially if she hates socks like her mommy).

elf on the shelf

2007-12-17T20:40:00.000-08:00

Well, I did it. I bought The Elf on the Shelf. My friend Dawn has been telling me to get it and then I found out (thanks, Jen!) that they are available at the Hallmark store in the mall. You can read all about the elf by clicking on the link above. My kids are convinced that this little guy is watching their every move and reporting back to Santa each night. It's fabulous!

Cutest Santa Photo Contest

2007-12-16T21:52:00.001-08:00

It's time to get those Santa photos entered in this year's contest. All you have to do is email me with a number or description of the image you'd like to enter. It just has to be one with Santa in it from this year. Once I have all the entries, I will post them on the blog and the readers will vote to select a winner. The winning family will get a free LOVE Letters mini session and a set of new mini- folding Valentine's Day cards (samples coming this week). To see last year's contest, click here. Or to see the Cutest Bunny Photo contest, click here.

You have until FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21st to enter!

ice storm and jewelry

2007-12-14T10:41:00.000-08:00

More ice storm news. The jeweler I use is in Iowa where the ice storm is. Melissa, bless her heart, has been without power since Saturday but is still managing to make jewelry. I probably have about 10 orders in with her right now and most were submitted before December. According to her blog, those should be ready to ship soon. She sounds confident that, despite the conditions, holiday orders will be delivered on time. Thanks for your patience. Again, there isn't anything anyone can do but wait. Contacting her by phone will only slow her down and she does not have email capabilities now. I'll keep you all posted!

'Tis the Season!

2007-12-12T21:24:00.000-08:00

Those of you waiting on orders might have to wait a day or two longer than usual. I have about 12 completed orders in route with UPS that are stuck in Iowa in that ice storm. Orders that were shipped after that group have been re-routed and will beat them to California! I'll keep you all posted and will contact you AS SOON as your things are ready to be picked up! Think warm and fuzzy thoughts!

UPDATE: The packages have started moving again! I have been tracking those things like crazy! Looks like I'll have a huge UPS delivery tomorrow. A lot of you will be getting calls on Friday!

holiday craziness & a contest

2007-12-08T07:17:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone - I just wanted to let you know a few things.

* Your holiday orders should be in. If they aren't, I need them NOW as the lab is sure to get backed up.
* Here is a link to something I am hoping to take the kids to this year. I haven't been so I'm throwing it out there in case anyone wants to check it out. The Griffith Park Light Festival. * The Gentle Barn out here in the SCV is having a holiday party on Sunday the 16th with real snow! It's a great place that rescues abused animals.
* If you and your family find any other fun holiday activities to do with the kids and want to share them, please email me the info. I'll put it here on the blog.
* If you haven't checked out the blog in a while, there are several new posts below this with fun family activities and a slideshow of some of this year's cards.
* Gift certificates are available in any amount for the holidays.
* If anyone has a leftover holiday card this year and would like to mail one to me (:)), email me for my address. I always love to enjoy them and then use them as samples for next year.

**************************************************************************

And lastly, it's that time of year again for The Best Santa Photo of 2007! If you'd like to enter, email me and tell me which image you'd like to put in the contest. There are just two requirements - it has to have Santa in it and it has to be from 2007. I will put them all on the blog and the readers will choose the winner. The winner will receive a free LOVE Letters session for Valentine's day and a set of new mini-cards to use as Valentines! Very cute! The deadline to enter is December 20th.

Enchanted at the El Capitan

2007-12-07T21:20:00.000-08:00

Megan and Nathan didn't have school today so we went to see Enchanted at El Capitan Theater in Hollywood. I've seen a number of movies there over the years and it's always fun. But this was the best time we have ever had there. The movie is fabulous (although the kids and adults laughed at different times!). The ticket included "the enchanted experience." Disney has a new 24,000 square foot facility next to the theater where you go after the movie. This is the first thing we saw when we went in....There was free "princess make-up"...

Free dress-up time...

free princess crafts....Then we walked around and met the six major princesses (Cinderella, Snow White, Belle, Sleeping Beauty, Jasmine, and Ariel) plus Giselle, the princess from Enchanted....

Nathan loved the princesses but if you have a boy who wouldn't, they had remote control cars, jumpies, rock climbing walls, and an arcade!

If you've already seen Enchanted, it is seriously worth it to see it again at this theater. We were amazed at how much there was to do. We only left because the kids were starving! =) While we were there, we bought tickets to see the 3-d Hannah Montana concert movie in February!!

The North Pole Express

2007-12-02T21:49:00.000-08:00

We took the kids out to Fillmore tonight to ride the North Pole Express train. Before we boarded, we had dinner and then went to Santa's little fair. There was fake snow:

free jumpies....

There were also rides that you could buy tickets for and craft booths but the kids just wanted to jump! Then they said "All Aboard!"

They brought everyone some cookies and milk, read a story, gave every passenger a jingle bell, and sang Christmas carols. Then we made a stop at the North Pole to pick up Santa.
He rode back to the station with us, visiting with the kids on the way.

We were super-excited!

After we got back to the train station, we got to see Santa one more time!

The Fillmore Railway does a lot of fun things all year...pumpkin train rides, murder mysteries, Thomas festivals, dinner with Santa, tree cutting trips. Fun stuff.

Check out the holiday card slideshow below!

Christmas Cards

2007-11-29T13:05:00.000-08:00

I'm still here - swamped! I see the light at the end of the tunnel though. I have help coming tomorrow to package up your orders. Enjoy this holiday card slideshow in the meantime! :)

fall print competition results

2007-11-15T07:02:00.001-08:00

Tuesday night was our local photographers' association's print competition. The Print Expo that normally happens in the Fall has been moved top the Spring since the photographers who put it on are all so busy this time of year. I went back and forth on what to enter this time but it looks like I made some good choices. This one, "Holiday Magic," took first in the studio portrait category. It is one of my all-time favorite Santa images.This one, "Beach Boys," took first in non-studio portraits. Love these boys, they are always just as happy as they look in this photograph.

And this one, "Three Wheelin'" took second in the non-studio portrait category (losing to "Beach Boys"). I love this one because that's my baby. :)

swaddle me

2007-11-14T22:53:00.000-08:00

I am probably way behind the times here but a couple of newborns now have come with these great blankets called Swaddle Me. Why, oh why did they not have these when I had babies? The nurses at the hospital did the best burrito wraps with those receiving blankets and then when I got home, I couldn't do it. These keep newborns from startling themselves awake. You've probably already heard of them but just in case you haven't.....

Santa Sessions are Booked

2007-11-13T07:18:00.001-08:00

Wow, it's been crazy around here! All of the spots for A Glimpse of Santa are booked for 2007. In fact, there are very few times left in 2007 that I am able to squeeze anything else in. As always, if you have a newborn under 2 weeks old that you'd like to get in, I will make time. Thanks to those who have already come and those who will be here soon for their holiday portraits!

FUN for Girls: Sweet & Sassy

2007-11-04T20:48:00.000-08:00

Have you been to the new place between the mall and the library (by the fire station) called Sweet & Sassy? I've been meaning to go see what it's all about. Today Megan went to a party there and it was so much fun. It's a lot like Libby Lu but bigger and with a runway to walk down after you are all gussied up. Parties there can include dress-up, hairstyle, nails, facials, etc. There are party rooms to eat in, too. If you are into girly things, there is lots of fun stuff to buy. You can also go just for a haircut or for a special spa day for your daughter. Definitely worth checking out! Here are some snaps from today....

the runway

getting a polish

getting a style

wondering why mommy always has her camera

doin' a little danceeach girl walked out and accepted a trophy for Best Actress or something and got to thank the little people for their success

FUN Game for Kids!

2007-11-02T09:26:00.001-07:00

My friend Cindy brought this game up for my kids and they LOVE it. Everyone, from 3 up loves Zingo! You can get it at places like Target. My kids play this every single day!

NEW Collections and Cards!

2007-10-25T11:33:00.000-07:00

Just in time for the holidays - two new collections and a new folding card have been added to our price list.

The new card is an accordion-style folding card with 8 printable sides. It is 4 x 5.5 and comes with envelopes. This is perfect if you have LOTS of images you want to use or two different themes you'd like to incorporate. Here is a peek at one of our Christmas cards (yes, I did say one of - I'm a little nuts)...

I couldn't decide which set of photos I liked better for a card this year so the accordion card let me use both!

And here is a recent birth announcement using the accordion card...

It flowed a lot better with the color images on one side and the black and white on the other.

To see the prices for these and all of our other holiday cards, click here.

And now....two new collections to introduce!
These collections are the result of your suggestions and requests. One is designed for those of you who are scrapbookers and includes unmounted photographs for you to use in your albums. The other includes a cd of low resolution images instead of a proof set. Low resolution images are perfect for emailing to family and friends or posting on your family's website, blog, or myspace page. They look fabulous online but will not produce high-quality prints. Both collections will be here through the holidays and then I will decide whether or not to make them a permanent offering. Click here to check them out.

lombardi ranch

2007-10-25T07:44:00.001-07:00

As you all know by now, a lot of Lombardi Ranch was destroyed or damaged by the recent fires. It's been there since all the mommies around here were kids and has been the place all of our preschoolers go for their very first field trip. During the fire, the pumpkins remained on the ground, unharmed. They are opening their gates to the public beginning today and through the weekend for anyone who would like to still buy pumpkins and show their support.

3 more "A Glimpse of Santa" days added

2007-10-24T12:51:00.000-07:00

And then that is absolutely all I can handle!! :) New dates are pink on the calendar.

Fire update: we are okay!

2007-10-22T20:27:00.000-07:00

I hope you are reading this from your home, safe and sound. What a scary couple of days! We were on mandatory evacuation earlier today but we are back now and fine. I can't believe how many of you called or emailed to check on us - thank you so much for your concern. Sessions that were scheduled for yesterday, today, and tomorrow will obviously need to be rescheduled so I will be in touch. Here is a shot from the Castaic Industrial Center - this is the Stevenson Ranch fire that is heading out of the SCV - taken around 8:00 tonight. Stay safe! :)

FUN Shirts for Babies and Toddlers

2007-10-19T11:36:00.000-07:00

This is a quick fun thing to look at. I LOVE these shirts and onesies from Ellabee Baby. They are cute, funny, and so so true. It's one of the things I found once my kids were really too big for them. I did get a shirt for Megan that said "Lovee" because I call her that all the time. She was able to wear it for kindergarten and part of first grade anyway.

Holiday Announcements

2007-10-19T11:28:00.000-07:00

Things are going to start getting crazy around here! Mid-Oct to Mid-Nov are always hectic. There are a couple of things you can do to help your portrait process run smoothly. The first is to pay the deposit to reserve your session time and once you do, make sure I have marked it as "paid" on the calendar. The second is to place your orders within 10 days of your session. That will not only secure your free print but it will help me keep only the most recent sessions online. There is only room for so many and with a lot of sessions about to take place, I need to take the older ones down. Thanks for your help! I am looking forward to seeing everyone this season! :)

A Glimpse of Santa at the Park

2007-10-14T20:34:00.000-07:00

This year, in addition to Santa sessions in the studio, we will be doing two days of park sessions with Mommy or Daddy in the Santa suit. These two little dolls helped me shoot some samples last week. Thank you to the whole family for being such good sports!! Check the studio calendar for dates/times.

Apple Picking Info

2007-10-14T16:06:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone! We're back and I wanted to let you know that if you plan to go to Riley's Farm for apple picking, call first. Apple picking is winding down but pumpkins are still growing on the vines! This is their phone number....(909) 797-7534.

Weekend Away

2007-10-13T09:06:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone, just wanted to let you know that I will be out of town this weekend and as shocking as it may be, I will not have my laptop with me so I won't be getting emails. I will have my cell phone if you have an urgent question. Everything will be back to normal when the kids return to school on Monday! Here are some of our photos from this year's trip to the Riley's Apple Farm.

The Boys of Summer

2007-10-07T16:30:00.000-07:00

Congratulations, Lisa! You win the Joe's Crab Shack gift card.

You may have noticed that the studio is closed this week. My kids have Fall break and we have filled up our days with Disneyland, the apple farm, a weekend trip, and doctor's appointments. So there won't be any sessions but I will be able to answer emails and voice mails and will be able to send orders to the lab so feel free to keep in touch!

FUN Home Depot FREE Kids Project

2007-10-03T10:05:00.000-07:00

Home Depot (on Newhall Ranch Road) has a monthly free kids' project. It's always the first Saturday of the month so October's is THIS Saturday from 9-12. You can come anytime during that time period. This month's project is a firetruck. They get a Home Depot apron, a project kit, a certificate, and a pin! The best part, for my children, is they get to use real tools. Here are some photos from last month's project, a football wall hook thingy.

Logan - ALWAYS with the mouth open when concentrating on something.

Our friend Alex!

Oh, this was right up Nathan's alley. He loved every minute of it.

Alex - hard at work!

Alex's dad giving a little guidance to the little guys

girls can do anything boys can do!

All done! Then we went to Michaels to buy paint and painted them at home.

Fall Calendar

2007-10-01T10:08:00.000-07:00

Wow, things are getting busy around here. I decided to add available park and regular studio sessions to my calendar for those of you who are still deciding what to do. I don't plan to add any other dates to the calendar. If you have a newborn under 2 weeks old or a baby celebrating his/her first birthday and would like a session, please contact me and I will do my best to fit you in. There are more Santa sessions, holiday mini-sessions, park days, and full studio sessions on the calendar. This is going to be a fun, fun couple of months!

There are several new posts below this so check it out!

You Vote!

2007-10-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

The pressure is too much and the ideas are so good! I'll let you pick your favorite photo title. The voting ends on Friday at midnight and the winner gets a $20 gift card to Joe's Crab Shack.

Disney Clearance Warehouse in SCV

2007-09-30T20:46:00.000-07:00

This isn't the fun tip I planned to post this week...it's an urgent fun tip! =) On the corner of Soledad and Sierra Highway, next to Kindercare, there is a temporary Disney Warehouse with discounted clothing, toys, collectibles, costumes, etc. It's only there until November 11th and since they don't get new merchandise in, the sooner you go, the better the selection will be! Don't forget the post below this - only a few more hours to enter the "Name that Photo" contest!

Name That Photo CONTEST

2007-09-28T07:42:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our second "Name that Photo" contest! All you have to do is come up with a name for the photograph below and leave your entry in the "comments" section of this post. I've changed the comment criteria so anyone can leave one even if you don't have a google account. Don't forget to sign your name so I know whose title it is! One entry per person, please. I will choose my favorite title (with the help of trusted family, friends, and fellow photogs) based on its cleverness and probability of catching a judge's attention. The author of the winning title will win a $20 gift certificate to Joe's Crab Shack! The contest will end at midnight on Sunday night. Here is the photo in need of a great title....good luck!

Choo Choo TRAIN Fun!

2007-09-25T10:16:00.002-07:00

Travel Town...we used to go there when I was a camp counselor at Sunshine and I thought it was sooooo boring. But if you have a little train lover or if you go there on Thomas Sunday (1st Sunday of the month) with a Thomas fanatic, it's so much more fun! AND, just before you get to Travel Town, there is another place with a miniature train that kids and grown ups can ride together! It is so much fun to go on a real train ride for free that lasts 15 minutes and goes over bridges and through tunnels! They do that on Sundays from 11-3. You have to be 34" tall to ride. Both Travel Town and The LA Live Steamers train are free!

Name that Photo Contest

2007-09-20T22:43:00.000-07:00

Got Milk?

Time's up! Congratulations, Maggie! You win the Stomp Rocket! Look for another Name that Photo contest on Friday...I have two more in need of names and hopefully, they will be easier than this one! =)
***************************************
Welcome to our very first "Name that Photo" contest! Titles are required for print competitions and I am always stumped when it comes to giving them names. All you have to do is come up with a name for the photograph below and leave your entry in the "comments" section of this post. I've changed the comment criteria so anyone can leave one even if you don't have a google account. Don't forget to sign your name so I know whose title it is! One entry per person, please. I will choose my favorite title (with the help of trusted family, friends, and fellow photogs) based on its cleverness and probability of catching a judge's attention. The author of the winning title will win a prize. For this first "Name that Photo" contest, the prize is a stomp rocket like the one featured earlier this month on the blog! The contest will end at midnight on Saturday night. Here is the first photo in need of a great title....good luck!

New CONTEST coming this FRIDAY!

2007-09-17T10:24:00.001-07:00

Check in early on Friday for your best chance to win the next contest. It will only last for 2 days!

Apple Farm FUN

2007-09-17T10:01:00.000-07:00

Another fun place to take your kids this Fall! These photos are from last year's trip to Riley's Farm. We won't go again this year for a few more weeks but I wanted to share now so you can plan your October! First though, you should know that this is a day TRIP. I think it took a couple hours total to get there - directions are on the site above. Riley's Farm is a beautiful place where you can pick your own apples and other fruits and veggies. Not only is it a fun time for the kids, it's a photographer's dream. Two of my competition prints last Fall were taken at Riley's Farm. If you spend a whole day, like I plan to this year, there are other farms nearby where you can pick your own pumpkins right off the vine! I can't wait! Oh this is important - Riley's Farm is closed on Sundays. =)

I had a lot of fun last year processing my images in photoshop. I was trying out a bunch of new actions I had just purchased so that's why some are color, some are popped color, some are vintage....I took a Kaiya Eve skirt along...anyone shocked? Hee Hee. Megan loved it. And we found this broken chair in the field - the perfect prop!

My friend's sweet little girls...

My sister-in-law Jennifer took these of me and Meg.
I love this one - her sparkling eyes!

a FUN place to eat

2007-09-10T08:09:00.001-07:00

My neighbor and friend, Colleen, discovered Joe's Crab Shack in Ventura. Between Rob fishing, me doing beach sessions, my father-in-law living there, the easy drive, and the cooler climate, we head out that way about once a week. Joe's Crab Shack is like a date night without the sitter. If you eat outside, your view is of the ocean and Ventura Pier.

And the kids have a place to run and play while waiting for their kids' meals.

And dessert for the kids is so much fun. This is a build-your-own ice cream sandwich:

And this is the wildly popular paint-your-own rice krispy crab:

Now, of course, no place is perfect. Someone thought the ideal playing surface for the playground was gravel! If there are little rock-throwers present, that's not fun. But if all the parents supervise their kids from their tables (you have a perfect view of the playground), everyone will have fun!

To get to Joe's Crab Shack from Santa Clarita, take the 126 until it turns into the 101. Exit Seaward and turn left. Make the first right onto Harbor and then a right onto Sanjon (just before the pier). You will see Joe's right away on the left. Have fun!

Oh yeah, they serve all kinds of food, not just seafood. =)

There are several new posts below this one if you haven't tuned in lately!

~~~~NEW Holiday Cards~~~~

2007-09-06T10:30:00.000-07:00

The holidays will be here before we know it! For me, they've already arrived. Santa sessions are booking and my fun holiday things are out of storage! This year, we're offering some new custom holiday cards. We've offered the folding cards in the past, but now they will come with a glossy finish and UV coating to ensure longevity. We're also offering a tri-fold card with 6 printable sides, and a postcard style with two printable sides. And, my new favorite thing - an optional pearl finish to any of the folding or postcard style cards. Regular one-sided photo cards will still be available as well. Ask to see samples next time you are at the studio! The images below can be seen larger by clicking on them. =)

Above is a 2-sided 5x7 postcard with a pearl finish. It is printed on heavyweight cardstock, not photo paper. These are sold in sets of 25 for $65 and come with envelopes.

Above is a sample of a 5x7 folding card with 4 printable sides and the new UV coating. What some families have done in the past with this card is make one of the four sides a full image of the kids. Then when Christmas is over, your family and friends have a new 5x7 portrait to display in their home. 5x7 folding cards are sold in boxes of 25 for $75 and come with envelopes.

These are the 5x5 tri-fold cards with the UV coating. With 6 sides, there is plenty of room for a LOT of images! Tri-fold cards are sold in sets of 25 for $80 and come with envelopes.

It's really hard to see the pearl finish in a photograph. It's best viewed in person. The pearl finish is sort of a textured, soft metallic look. It's gorgeous! This finish can be added to any of the above cards for $10.

Check out yesterday's new post below this one to see a fun toy for your kiddos!

a FUN toy!

2007-09-05T20:15:00.000-07:00

I have decided to add something new to this blog. You all know I have three children, ages 7, 5, and 3. We love finding fun places to go, activities to do, toys to add to our collection, and clothes to wear. I've decided to share my "finds" with all of you because having fun with kids is what it's all about! My friend Dawn told me about this great toy - the Stomp Rocket. I got ours at Costco for about $15 and there were a lot left. {*update* Costco is all out and won't be getting more in. :( It's still worth keeping your eyes open for!} You can also buy it from their website that is linked above. ANY child who can stand can do this. You just stomp (or jump or sit) on the pedal and a nerf-like "rocket" zooms HIGH into the sky. It's super-soft and fun to try to catch. It's great at the park and the beach. We pay the kids $1 per catch so that they are just as excited to "field" the rockets as they are to launch them. Don't worry, so far, it's only cost us two bucks. It's not as easy as it looks!

Here is Logan sitting on the pedal.

watching one take off...

Megan trying to get a lot of air for her jump.

I know a bunch of you are teachers and I saw this book on the stomp rocket website. It looked pretty intesting.I have so many more things to share with you so check back often. Tomorrow I will have photos of our new holiday cards ready to post on the blog as well.

And the winner is.....

2007-09-01T00:15:00.000-07:00

#2! I can't believe I am even UP at midnight to end the voting - it was all that scrapbooking tonight! =) Congratulations, Jenny! You win a free holiday mini-session - Santa, Halloween, Christmas - just let me know! This was a fun contest. I usually don't get to see your portraits once they leave my hands. I really enjoyed finding out where they are hanging out. We will definitely do this again!

VOTE NOW for the August Contest!

2007-08-27T11:11:00.001-07:00

Here are the entries for this month's contest. Please vote for the display you like the best. Voting closes at midnight this Friday (the 31st). The winner will receive a free holiday mini-session this Fall. Good luck! Click on the image to enlarge....

a wall display with images spanning nearly 4 years

This mommy bought the digital files so her friend at inababycarriage.com could design a birth announcement

just two of MANY scrapbook layouts made by this mommy

a wall display from one of my favorite beach sessions last summer

a wall display with images spanning almost 6 years

a wall display from one of my favorite little sweeties who shares a name with my daughter!

A Glimpse of Santa at the BEACH!

2007-08-24T20:36:00.000-07:00

**August contest deadline extended to Sunday - read two posts down for details on how to win a FREE mini-session!**

This year we are trying something new with our popular Glimpse of Santa sessions. We are taking it to the beach! If you want something different on your cards this year, the beach is the session for you. A Glimpse of Santa beach sessions are $100 and include a 30-minute session and a 5x7 with prompt orders. There are two dates on the calendar - one in September and one in October. Here are a few samples.....

We will also spend some time getting the family or just the kids on the beach so you have enough variety to create a holiday card. We will have our assortment of holiday hats, scarves, and skirts, too!

cute cakes!

2007-08-22T09:57:00.001-07:00

Only a few more days to enter our contest to win a free holiday mini-session (see the post below this one for details!). Keep those photos coming - they're awesome!I just wanted to share these cute cakes from S&S Donuts on McBean and Decoro. Wouldn't they be adorable for first birthdays? You have to order them 24 hours in advance and they cost $15-$18.

~August Contest~ win a FREE Holiday Session!

2007-08-12T08:27:00.000-07:00

Yes, you read that correctly, it's time for this month's CONTEST. If you would like to enter, all you have to do is email me a photo of how you have cleverly displayed your images that I have taken. Your display can be on the wall, in a scrapbook, or any other creative use of photographs. They can be from any session you've had with me; recent or old, color or black and white, studio or natural light. Just email a photo to mitzi@photobymitzi.com by Sunday, August 26th. I'll select a few of my favorites and then we'll put it to a vote! The winner will receive a free holiday mini-session this Fall! Good luck!

Fall Holiday Dates are now Open

2007-08-05T08:13:00.000-07:00

I'm back! Thank you for your patience with orders, emails, and phone calls while I was gone. My brother's wedding was perfect in every way. My kids made it down the aisle without a tear or a scene of any kind! =) This week I will be packaging up orders that arrived while I was gone and sending new orders to the lab. I opened up the September and October calendars for holiday mini-sessions. As always, if you'd like a regular long studio or park session, please contact me for your own date. Two new mini-sessions are coming this Fall - A Glimpse of Santa at the beach and at the park. I have a new "old time" Santa suit with a long coat for a parent to wear during those sessions. I'm expecting them to be a lot of fun!

Here are a few photos from our trip. My babies all dolled up and one of them together in Lake Huron looking off at Mackinac Island where we spent a day with no cars (they are not allowed on the island).

Mom and Me Donation Receipts

2007-07-20T21:34:00.000-07:00

Hello - Everyone who wrote a check to my mom's memorial fund should have received a confirmation letter from Michigan State University this week. Several of you wrote checks out to me and I then wrote a check out to the fund. If that is the case, let me know and I will get a letter to you for your tax records. Thanks again to everyone!

going on a trip and a new camera

2007-07-13T13:03:00.000-07:00

As you probably noticed on my calendar, we will be out of town for 2 weeks for my brother's wedding in Michigan. All 5 of us are in the wedding party! We're leaving July 23rd. If you need to pick up an order, please do so before that date. If you are waiting to place an order, please do that by Monday, July 16th so I can try to have it ready before we leave.

In other news, I purchased a new camera this week and will be able to offer larger prints soon! Here are a couple of recent images with that new camera (I am positively in LOVE with it):

More Holiday Specials

2007-07-06T22:59:00.000-07:00

The free Christmas on the Beach sessions are taken. I came home to more than enough emails about it and am just responding to them now to figure out who is on board for that.

Beginning in the Fall, the mini-session fee will be $50. I have opened up three September dates for holiday mini-sessions which can be used for A Glimpse of Santa or using my many holiday props. Any September holiday mini-session that is booked and paid for in the month of July will be at the old mini-session price of $40 and will still include a 5x7 with prompt orders. So, all of you blog readers now have the inside information. =)

2 free sessions available

2007-07-06T06:54:00.000-07:00

I am working on an idea for this Fall and am looking for a couple of families to model for me in order to get sample shots. Your session would take place at the beach on Friday, August 24th at either 9:00 or 9:30. The theme will be Christmas at the beach. You must be available on that date to take advantage of the free session. Your shoot will last 30 minutes and will include 20 folding holiday cards as a thank you. You are are not obligated to purchase anything more. If you are interested, please email me. I will only be taking two families that day so obviously, the first to contact me will get those spots.

Check back today or tomorrow for more holiday specials.

pregnant? count those kicks!

2007-07-02T12:48:00.000-07:00

I know so many of you are pregnant right now. I want to share a website with you that was set up by a fellow photographer whose son was tragically born still last year. Counting your baby's kicks, particularly towards the end of your pregnancy, takes just a few minutes and could save the life of your precious little one. Click on the image below to find out more.

on display at the hospital

2007-06-21T15:27:00.000-07:00

Today was the grand opening ceremony of Henry Mayo's new bridge that connects the two main buildings of the hospital. Local photographers submitted photographs to be considered for hanging in the corridor and three of mine were hung! Megan, my niece Kari, and I went over today to see them. Next time you are there (hopefully for a happy occasion, like a birth), check it out!

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