Photography, An Investment.

Everyone is picking up a camera these days, and why not? It's a beautiful thing!!! I can't even tell you how many articles I have read on the pricing, anchoring and questions about photography and the business it entails. With everyone wanting to be a photographer- it's awfully hard to stay focused and stick to what you love to do.
I have simply come to realize one thing. I want my clients to hire me as an investment into their lives and memories.  I don't want them to compare me to prints at Wal-Mart or the inexpensive photographer down the street with new DSLR who prices well below everyone else in town.
I want the people who come to me to believe that I cherish their time, their visions and that photography is a work of art and a reflection of WHO they are, not just what they are wearing.
How do I do that? That's an evolving journey.  However, I want each person that hires me to feel that they are my ONLY client.  I promptly answer emails, texts and go on location when and where I can.  I eagerly share my ideas and wait to hear about yours.  It's not just a scheduled appointment to get your pictures taken, it's moment set apart to create something amazing.  It's not just another a wedding to get through, it's your wedding and it's an immense responsibility to me to make sure it's all you ever dreamed it would be.
I say all that because I have heard more than once about pricing (not just my own, but others as well).." I just don't get it, it's just a picture".  That's ok though, those aren't my clients :)
When my clients DO ask about pricing, I gladly explain what is entailed and how I run my business.  The shoot may last only an hour, the wedding just a day or two....but the behind the scenes is what hopefully will separate me from the others...including the grocery store prints.
I am so excited for this spring and summer. I plan on spoiling my brides (and grooms) like crazy and indulging in some ideas and photo shoots like never before.  I have so many ideas in my head, I can't wait to unleash them...so get ready folks.... It's gonna be a crazy, fun and creative ride in 2012!!!

Caring Caterers!

I am only going by personal experience on this one, so if you know or recommend another caterer in your area feel free to contact me and let me know at amberjphoto@gmail.com

Catering is a crazy business especially in the wedding industry where good food is demanded and delivery is expected to be right on time.  Not an easy to feat to conquer, but those who do it earn my absolute respect!

Heather Clark owns T.P's cafe in Stamford, NY. I have attended several events in which she has catered. I can say no one has left hungry or disappointed.  She delivers promptly and her food is absolutely delicious.  She has experience in catering large and small venues and her staff is always courteous, kind and helpful. 
I might be a little excited when I arrive on the premise and I know it's her food that coming on in!

Vern's Restaurant In Davenport
My first introduction to Vern's was last year at a wedding reception.  I can't even remember how many different choice there were, but I will admit...I went back for seconds.  Their menu is versatile and their staff was prompt in delivering the food on time.  They are capable of hosting on site parties as well using their own venue for receptions and gathering.
I do remember they had this shrimp salad I fell in love with and the meat they prepared was done just right.

Brooks BBQ
The name speaks for itself. However, no one can go wrong when Brook's comes.  Their family owned operation is phenomenal in it's service and passes any taste test.  The owners are kind and willing to do whatever they can to make sure your event is catered with top notch diligence.
I have never had a piece of chicken or potato salad I didn't enjoy. Best of all, it's service with a smile.

Best Western In Cobleskill

Service here is a must.  The wait staff is efficient and attentive, but they don't monopolize the event. They are always available and I never lacked for food on my plate.  I entertained a chicken parm here and finished every last bite.  The food was fantastic, but even better I watched them accommodate a wedding party that arrived a little later than they were supposed too. Despite the delay, this staff was ready to go, the food was served up with a little extra deliciousness and the evening went beautifully.

Some other places I have enjoyed amazing food and catering services:
Grapevine Farms in Cobleskillhttp://grapevinefarms.com/
Mallozis Ballroom and Catering in  Schenectady http://www.mallozzis.com/

Thinking of Child/Family Portraits? It Doesn't Have To Be Stressful

Many times parents put off getting family portraits done or even having their children photographed because they feel their children won't behave or are too shy. They also have a hard time FINDING time...I hear ya on that one.

I have a few varying opinions on this.  First of all, I know heading into a family setting with young children, that their attention span is limited and posing is NOT fun.

Family and children photography sessions don't have to be stressful. Think of it more like inviting a photographer along for a family outing.  Have a family day scheduled, invite a photographer along for part of it.  I actually have never really posed a child, they pose themselves and I love shooting on location.
So if you are thinking of family photos or child portraits these are a few ideas :
1. Let's go where they can play. Play with your children, you find the most beautiful moments aren't planned.
2. Dress them comfortably. They can be cute and comfy at the same time!!
3. Allow for time. I take the time to talk and play with the child before the camera comes out. Once they are comfortable, the smiles will come
4. Laugh with your children.
5. Patience. After having two boys of my own, I know children work on their own time schedule and any good photographer will have the patience and kindness to garner amazing shots of your child.
6. Don't stress. Photographers know what they are getting into photographing children, haha and we love it :)
7. Plan the day around it. Go on a family picnic, go fishing, go for a hike, play at the park...there will be a million moments to photograph just by simply being a family,.
8. All in all, photo session in the morning or after a good nap are always great. Well fed and well rested kiddos are happy ones!!! ( I mean, aren't we all that way!?!)

:)

 I picked out the outfits, I told them to go play...and then I asked them to quickly look at me...and hello cutie pies!!

 I let this handsome guy pick up apples off the ground. This series was to die for! Just followed him around!!

I loved this shot. We were actually almost done with the shoot and she went and stood by the door. She wanted to go in and get her little bike, but she paused for a moment by the door...and something about this shot is very nostalgic to me!
If you are thinking of scheduling a shoot...go for it.

Finding A Good DJ Just Got Easier

Please check out these DJs for your next event!!

Picking a Disc Jockey is like inviting one the most important guests to your wedding or other event. It shouldn't be taken lightly.

The partnership between a DJ and a photographer at a wedding or any event, is crucial.  After photographing numerous events and working with several professionals, it became clear that a DJ can pull everything together or they can leave people cringing!
The DJ and photographer should be able to  choreograph your event with a seamless effort so you can enjoy your day without a worry.
I highly recommend the following :)

Pat del Rosario - http://www.djpatdelrosario.com
Email
djpatdel@hotmail.com

Jameson Duncan -  607-222-7447

Jennifer Insetta - 45 East St, Oneonta, NY 13820 - Phone: 607-349-0494 jenniferinsetta@yahoo.com.

These DJs can pull together an event with charisma and a fluidity that puts everyone at ease  and at the same time can get everyone on the dance floor.

If you are on the fence about having a DJ at all, I would suggest contacting one of them and talking to them about your concerns or needs.  They can be the thread that ties the entire day leaving you well- pleased with your investment. 

Good luck in you endeavors!

Jewelry By Hope! Just look and see!

Hope Knapp and her jewelry design will blow you away...better yet, her prices will keep you coming back for more.
Hope owns her own jewelry business E.Claire Jewelry which can be found on Facebook as E.Claire Designs.  The entrepreneur commenced her journey in jewelry making in 2008 being inspired by the beautiful items in the back of her "mom" magazines.  However, the prices attached to the hand crafted items suffocated any desire to purchase!  She began to research supplies and ideas as well as tutorials and jumped in with the idea to design custom jewelry which was affordable.
Hope's line is unique and refreshing. No two pieces are the same, so when a piece is designed for YOU, there is none other like it.
"My jewelry is created by me through you with your children’s names, birth crystals or even sayings that inspire you. Each piece is hand stamped by me so no two are ever the same," said Hope.
Here are some ideas to utilize Hope's incredible talents!
 - Brides desire these for their save the date necklace, bridesmaid gifts and bridal jewelry..
- Moms of all types! Grand, Great etc..these pieces are made for you to wear your most precious possessions in the world, your children
- Kids love to have their name on display especially those are hard to find names with unique spellings
One of a kind sterling silver pieces with copper, aluminum, and Swarovski crystal embellishments. Each piece is uniquely yours with your personalized information.
Hope is from DeLancey NY and she can be contacted a number of ways!
 www.facebook.com/E.ClaireDesign
o My Etsy store is http://www.etsy.com/shop/EClaireJewelry
o My website which is under construction is http://www.eclairejewelry.com/
o Email is e.clairejewelry@gmail.com

Attention Brides (Esp. ones planning a July Wedding), Businesses and Artists...

 It's been quiet blogging through the holidays, but we are gearing up to feature some fantastic ideas, places, businesses, artists... the list goes on. However,  we can't be everywhere, so ideas? Have you seen something inspiring or unique that we could share?
  We would love to give a shout out to businesses as well. This month we will be featuring small business, DJ's and and a beautiful venue for your special event. Can't wait to get started!
OH! and If you are a July 2012 Bride...check out our super fabulous, incredible deals on www.amberjphoto.com.  There is a link just for you :)

Happy New Year! Let's be inspired!

Random Wednesday - cute ideas!

As a photographer I have the beautiful opportunity to see creativity in it's most enlivened moments.  Brides (and sometimes grooms!) create unique weddings they will cherish forever because it represents them.  I encourage every family and couple to depict something they love about who they are  in their photo shoots. Someone told me once to look at your clothes, what you like, what you don't, the colors you enjoy most and your favorite graphic t-shirts :) From there, let your imagination go.... It was a great jumping off point for sure!
I opened this blog in hopes in finding the creative gems that live and work in our area and I have been overwhelmed!! How talented  you all are!
I did want to give a few spotlights to some unique ideas and personal favorites.

 Heidi Barton's Jewelry still have me in awe. Check out THIS piece. Plus, it's one of my favorite colors :)  Check her out here

Debbie Foster from Middleburgh designed my stationary.  Her homemade touch was fantastic. She took my logo designed by Sam Dunnings (Margaretville grad!) and ran with it. I highly suggest her cards to anyone!! Please contact her at sfoster@midtel.net for information and pricing!

 

I shot a wedding with Kristin LiCalzi and thought this was cute for a fall wedding. I am lucky to get eyes and a nose out of pumpkin for my kids' jack-o-lanterns. So naturally...this is impressive to me.

 

Loved this too. The cork bowl was available to wedding guests. Each guest was to hold one in their palm during the wine ceremony. The bride and groom poured wine from their separate glasses into one in which they drank from the same glass and their guests held tightly to their corks to wish them well!

If you are going to personalize chocolate..it's going to be an instant winner with me.

A themed photo shoot? Newsie style? yes please. Oh wait..those are my kids! How'd they get on here? :)
Have you seen a unique and creative idea in your travels? Let me know! We can feature it on our next Random Wednesday selection!