I, Because.

I realized sometimes I'm quite the complainer, then a dose or perspective hits me and I'm like....ok, I have so much to be thankful for and acknowledge.  We complain about having to work out or about our job or about our family...but those are things we might just have to be the most thankful for...

I work with passion, 

because there are women that live in a place where that opportunity will never be presented.

I choose to be fit, eat well and take care of this body

because there are those who would jump from their wheelchair to run with me.  

I mother with all of my heart, 

because there are those who are childless.

I eat well, because tonight there are those who can only dream of fresh vegetables.

I create art because some never lived long enough to do so.

I give, because I can (and should)

I love Jesus, because there are who who will never know Him and that's what inspires me.

I was a little bummed this week about it...

Every professional photographer faces it.  Every one trying to earn a living through photographic art nods their head when they hear about it. It's a small part of the industry that is kind of a bummer.

I love wedding and teen/senior portraits.  I seriously get excited with every new inquiry because it's another person to meet with and create with and oh the possibilities!!!

So you can imagine when I get the inquiry, set the date and get ready to roll and then receive the email:
"So sorry, my sister got a nice camera so...."
"My Uncle Bobs takes great pics and he's free so..." (Does everyone have an Uncle Bob??)

Out of the 10 inquiries this week, 3 backed out because they knew someone who "took good pictures." I was bummed.
But I wasn't bummed for the reason you would think.  I was bummed for them. Not myself (ok maybe a little for myself but I get so excited).

Why? Because "taking good pictures" isn't what I am here to do.  I better take amazing images if I'm going to charge money, but I love the experience with working along side people to create images I know can't be done as a hobby.

I don't want a hobby.

I am bummed for them because they are missing out.  Yes, of course they are saving some money, but we spend money on what is valued... (Starbucks vs. Green Mountain anyone?).  I am bummed because they will miss out on the awesome hair and make up crew we have.  They will miss out on the TONS of laughter and the behind the scenes bloopers.  They will miss out on creating a memory and enhancing these images to go above and beyond a "good picture".  They will miss out on art and wall portraits and amazing albums.

I know beautiful portraiture isn't for everyone, that's why we have created a business that caters to those who truly define art and photography as one and KNOW they are investing in a memory whether it's weddings or seniors or whatever!

So, bummer.  But alas, I have an exciting fall to produce all sorts of amazing images for these clients that have taken the plunge and have trusted me with this moment.  I am not bummed for them, heck no.  I am way too excited!!!

Tips on How To Make Your Flower Girl Experience Effortless and Fun!

That moment when the flower girl does her thing! It really can be one of the highlights of the wedding ceremony! Although, let’s face it, if that little cutie isn’t prepared for her debut, it can turn on you!  Let’s start with the selection process in this very important role.  Cuteness factor is where we all like to go of course! However it is not the only thing to consider. 

 The best success comes with children four years of age and over (usually, it falls within a 4-8 year range).  Your two year old niece might be the next Mary- Kate Olsen circa “Full House”, but might not be able to handle or like being the center of attention, even if for a moment.  Or being dressed up in frills through the entire event!  When you do make your choice, consider the following:

MAKE IT SPECIAL

·       Make it a special day for her too! Most every little lady wants to be a bride, so a little”mini-bride” treatment can work wonders! Leading up to the big day, make her a part of her dress selection process.

ACCESSORIES AS A GIFT
 ·       Find a way to figure out what accessories she likes-maybe a tiara or a children’s bracelet that she gravitated towards while shopping for the dress.  Give it to her as a gift the day of the wedding!

MAKE UP
·       If you are getting hair/make up done on the premises, have her parent(s) drop in with her when everyone is almost done (usually when everyone is getting final touches), and get one of the artists to put a wee bit of glitter or blush on her face.  Maybe a curl or two in her hair.  Make sure you clear it with the parents, and the artists – they are on a timeline! She’ll get comfortable with the wedding party, and feel pretty to boot!

SETTLING NERVES 
·       Sometimes, it is not a bad idea to pair your flower girl with one of your bridesmaids, a Junior Bridesmaid, to alleviate nervousness for her.  It’s also a nice touch, if she is walking alone, to give her something to carry with a little activity associated with it (i.e. basket with rose petals).  It ironically is a “nervousness alleviator” due to the fact that the concentration is not on all the people in the room gazing at her!

      Last but not least, have a familiar adult there when she starts her walk down the aisle, and another waiting for her when she completes it. Somewhat obvious, but often overlooked!

We would love to see YOUR flower girl:  tag us on Instagram @amberjphoto. 

My Favorite Accessory for Senior Portraits and Weddings. Thanks to The Floral Garden!!

PART 1.

We are honored to feature Tom Hofmeister, owner of The Floral Garden in Delmar, N.Y. this week.  Tom graced us with his gorgeous and ethereal floral crowns for our senior portraits featured in this blog! A beautiful and unique touch for your senior portrait, in addition to any special event, where you want to shine!

We really don't have to write much more just look at these images with our Amber J Senior Model Rep, Abby. 

 One of my all time fave shots (Shelly Wood grabbed this moment and I'm in love)

 When you get the flower crown to match her eyes !

The Floral Garden opened originally in 1993.  After a career in the corporate arena, Tom purchased the business in 2013.  Tom is self described as being an individual who has had a lifetime passion for flowers, whether it be growing them, arranging them, or always having an arrangement in his office during the corporate days of his career. Having grown tired of the “corporate world”, the opportunity to buy The Floral Garden presented itself, and he made the leap!

Tom employs seven talented staff members  (including the original owner).  They pride themselves with “high end results to fit any budget”, and a knack for tailoring their work to the client’s unique and special vision.  Their services range from Teleflora or wire service products, to in home decorating, private parties, weddings, funerals, and proms. They will also travel within a 100 mile radius to serve you from their Delmar, N.Y. location.

Can you see why I am in love with them?

Some behind the scenes for your view pleasure :) haha

I will be posting more about this shoot on my senior portrait(amberjseniors.com) site soon.  We had a LOT of fun. Thanks to Jessica Wynia for this stellar make up job!

“A creative design with a personal touch”

Please visit:

The Floral Garden

340 Delaware Avenue

Delamar, NY 12054

(518)478-7232

(800)478-6478

www.thefloralgarden.net

Elite 8 Child Model Reps Wanted :)

As we grow and expand we listen to what people would like to do and see and we aim to make it happen.
As our Epic Teens and Styled Senior Portrait Business Grows we KNOW there are some amazing children out there with rockin' families!

So, we will be launching our Elite 8 program.

Who: For kids ages 6-11.

What: A model rep program that allows kids to delve into the world of photography, fashion and new experiences.

When: Our first meeting will be held at our Studio on #341 Main Street, Tues Aug 25 at 7 pm.  Our second meeting will take place Tuesday Sept 1 at Prof. Javas in Albany at 7 pm.

These meeting we will explain how the program works, what is involved and how we can design some awesome sessions with your child!

This program also lends the opportunity for unique family photos before the Christmas season.  The Elite 8 will be given  various opportunities to work in front of the camera as well as earn family sessions and did I mention have TONS OF FUN!!?

So, if you are interested please click HERE!

Why Make Up For Your Portraits?

It can be a little daunting! However, capturing that look for your portrait can be a little less intimidating with a few simple steps. If you are not a makeup wearing, couture donning individual, then don’t try to be the day of your shoot. Alternatively, if you are a fashionista, be your authentic self. The first step in all of this is to embrace your own individuality, and capture it.




Here are a few simple beauty tips to capture the best YOU possible! -
While it sounds obvious, take care of your skin! Wash your face, once in the morning, and then before bed.
 A solid option for all skin types (and organic to boot) is Coconut Oil! Coconut oil acts as a “smart bomb” for your skin – if you tend to have dry skin, it moisturizes, if you run oily, it regulates the skin by keeping oil glands and sebum production in check! It also acts as a sunscreen, and is an antibacterial agent! -

Three words. BROWS, LIPS, LASHES.
In that order of importance! If you do nothing else, a little makeup application in these zones will make your features POP!











In makeup application, there are no rules! 
Many will tell you there are. Yes, standard rules work
( i.e. bold eye and downplayed lip vs. bold lip and downplayed eye). If it is your own personal style, downplay or “bold-up” whatever your see fit.







If you choose to go with a professional stylist or makeup artist for your shoot, these are helpful tips:

  * If you choose to wax your eyebrows, or any facial hair, make sure you do so more than 72 hours before your makeup application.  Waxing removes the outer layer of skin, leaving it “slick” and difficult to retain makeup.

 * If you decide to get a facial, or give yourself a facial, do it at least a week earlier than your shoot.  It is very typical to have an initial breakout after your facial, which means its working!  However, it’s nice to avoid having blemishes on your special day! 

Don’t wash your hair the day of styling!

That’s it for this week!  Enjoy your shoot, relax, be yourself!  Your photographer has it all handled!

Welcome to the #341! (Oh and check out our feature with Flower Ally!)

Welcome to #341. Thank you everyone who stopped by #341 Saturday and said hello to our new home and studio.  It meant a lot to see those who took their time to wish us luck and just show us support. #smalltownawesome.

We did it! Knotsvilla Weddings chose to feature us in their Top 10 Wedding Bouquet highlights!  I would love to take credit for this master piece, but I cannot, I merely snapped the pic.   Allison Sanganetti (Flower Ally) was the artist that brought to life the featured creation!

Check out our feature here: Knotsvilla  (the pic below is a hint!)