Type A Images

New Blog? Ohhhh yeah.....

2011-02-20T13:25:00.002-06:00

I'VE MOVED!

I've had this here freebie blog since 2008....and its seen me through 2 kids, my grandmother passing away, the start of Type A.....and lots of late nights. You've been a good friend, little buddy, but it's time to move on. I feel bad. Kind of feel like I'm dumping the not-so-cute but really nice guy for the hot jock with the nice car.

But, them's the breaks.....

Check it @

http://www.typeablog.com

Friday Fractured Thought | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2011-02-18T09:42:00.004-06:00

-This week I did my FIRST (and...let's face it, probably last) bridal show. Now, don't get me wrong...it was okay. I met a lot of couples and vendors as well. But, I don't think it's my thing. For one, putting together a workable booth is a LOT harder than it looks. I am no interior designer. I was just hoping I could come away with something that did not resemble a 6th grade science fair display. For another, because by the time I did the show I was nearly booked for 2011, I found I had to turn a lot of people away for dates....which sucked. Also, I had the booth right next to Simma's bakery....and they were giving away cake. Which was just mean.

I put together a little "Anatomy of My Booth" tutorial here.....enjoy.

- This week was also punctuated by illness. I was sick all last week and through the bridal show (I tried not to shake anyone's hand or sneeze on anyone...and if I sounded a bit looped, blame DayQuil). Then, Betty got sick.....and we got to experience our first "big girl" throw-up episode. TMI, perhaps...but there is a large, marked difference between baby puke and big girl puke. Large.

- We also had the Grammy's this week, which I watched in its entirety for, I think, the first time since high school. Gaga.....gotta love her. Music needs a little ridiculousness. However, I do not think music need Bieber.....I mean, I'm sure he's a nice kid and all...but I guess I'm old. I don't get it.

- Valentine's Day came and went (and while I'm on the subject, can we please stop calling it VD?). Typically the husband and I don't really celebrate this Hallmarky-ist of holidays. But this year I got candy...and flowers...and a pack of pacifiers. The husband sure does know how to woo a lady.

- How great was Ken Jennings back on Jeopardy....even if he DID get his butt kicked by a computer (I call shenenigans).

-The bridal world was all a-twitter (and a-Facebook) about Anthropologie's new bridal line. Where the hell was this when I was getting married? I could have escaped the lameness of David's Bridal!

- Did my taxes this week.....and that's all I'm gonna say about that. Let's just put it this way. I LOVE being self-employed. LOVE it. I wouldn't trade it for the world. But I miss getting tax refunds. Self-Employment tax is no joke.

- I have some major web-based changes in the works for Type A....which should be completed in the next month or so....a new look, a new space....and some birds.

- And speaking of Type A....I'm running a Smugmug sale now through the 1st day of Spring (March 20th)...so some of you folks can get a deal on art for your home! Just enter the code: SPRINGCLEAN during your Smugmug checkout.

- 2011 is fast becoming full for weddings. My goal was to only take 25 this year....but I will probably surpass that....especially if something super-awesome comes along : ). But getting your inquiry in NOW is heavily advised.

- Also, I'm opening up bookings for Spring portrait sessions. Booking those now assures that you will get today's pricing.....pricing will be going up this spring.

- Now, I would be pretty flippant if I didn't at least mention the historic protests happening in Madison this week. I will not, however, get all political on my blog.....it's not the time nor the place. I will say it is fascinating seeing it all unfold, and I have some friends who have taken some AMAZING images. I think, no matter what side of the political spectrum you fall on...when things like this happen it really is an interesting time to be a photographer. Especially if, like me, you're really into documentary photography. I wish I could have made it up to Madison to watch it unfold in front of my lens. Alas, sick kids and hubby's on business trips have kept me home...but I love that my friends have made the time to go out and document this historic event. Because, that is what is at the root of our jobs: documentation. No matter what our belief system, we can take that perspective and apply it to the art of photojournalism. How cool is that?

- I said I wasn't going to whine about it anymore...but I lied. A large portion of my pals are hopping on planes this weekend and heading off to Vegas for the WPPI Convention. I missed it last year.....I missed it this year....Next year I really don't care if my husband has to take 4 days off of work and sit with the kids...I am GOING. TO. WPPI.

- This weekend. I have a newborn session in Chicago, and I'm REGISTERING. BETTY. FOR. 4K. No way.

This week I also got a new seamless paper color. A little odd, because when I ordered it the color looked mint green.....when I got it....it's pretty grass green. But what-evs. Got a few shots of the kiddo.....enjoy : )

The Interrogation | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2011-02-15T09:39:00.007-06:00

When I was in grade school, I was that kid that would remind the teacher that she had promised a test or homework.....I was that kid who sat in the front row and shot my hand up at any chance...I was that really annoying know-it-all that hated group projects because I wanted to do it all by myself. Yep...I was THAT kid. (Yeah, my business name is beyond fitting, folks)

So, when it comes to sitting down in front of a potential client, part of that Goody-Two-Shoes kid comes rushing back. I WANT to answer all the questions right....so when the client pulls out some list they copied from Brides Magazine of "What to Ask Your Photographer" I get kind of giddy. Bring it on! I love being tested! Am I insured? Yes! Yes I am! Do you have back up equipment? Oh yeah! I do! A+!! GOLD STAR!!

It's like I'm that kid, all over again.

But, I have found that some of the questions the magazines tell you to ask are a bit....odd (especially if you're meeting with someone who is a professional....of COURSE they should have backup equipment!!). Unnecessary even. So, I thought it would be helpful to all the engaged folks out there to go over the "interrogation" portion of hiring a wedding photographer. What should you ask? What should they tell you? How should that meeting go?

1. Punctuality is Next to Godliness...Or Something.

Be on time...on both sides (client and photog). This is the first impression you're going to give one another...and you don't want that impression to be "This person can't show up on time....what if this happens the day of the wedding".

Picture: Disney

2. Talk Details.

The first thing I like to do when sitting down with a potential couple is find out about their wedding. The whole purpose of the meeting is to find out if you're a good match for one another. Hearing all about their plans, theme, etc. is a great way to lay that foundation.

3. One Size Does Not Fit All.

You want to get to know your photographer, too. You want to make sure that you both have a similar vision for your day. It could spell absolute disaster if your shooter is thinking "Classic Vintage Tinge" and you are "Modern Bright Saturated Color". The magazines like to use buzz words like "Photojournalism" or "Editorial" but you need to pick your shooter's brain and find out if they think those words mean what YOU think they mean. I've had some clients ask me what IS "photojournalism"....which is great...because it can mean SO many different things depending on who you ask!

Wedding Photographers or Photojournalists?? Depends on who you ask.....

Picture: Chemistry Daily

4. Are you a Bossy Betty or a Hands-Off Hank?

Some people are total naturals in front of the lens. They need little to no direction and all the photographer has to do is point, shoot, and magic happens. Poof! However....these people are few and far between. In MOST cases this will be one of the only times you've had a professional photographer following you around all day....which could make even the most secure person a bit squicky....You need to find out how your chosen photographer directs on the day of. Are they completely hands off? Are they WAY in your face? A great way to do this is not only to ask but to have an engagement session with your package. Having an engagement session done will allow you to get comfortable with your photographer and vice/versa.

Picture: Bakati.com

5. How Much, How Many, What Do I Get?

Now, getting down to the nitty-gritty of dollars, numbers, and expectations can be an awkward conversation. One way to AVOID it being awkward is to only make appointments with photographers that are in your price range. I've said it a few times before, but don't go into a consult intent on talking a photographer down. I don't care what the Bridal Magazines tell you to do (because I know they're out there telling you to go in there with your negotiation guns blazing!) . Most photographers are happy to share all of their pricing with you prior to a face to face meeting. And there are shooters in a variety of price ranges. Part of a shooter being a good fit for you is financial as well. We understand this. But, photographers are priced the way they are for a reason. Keep your budget in mind when setting up face to face meetings.

When it comes to How Many....it's often hard for a photographer to tell you how many pictures you will get. Each wedding is a different beast....and, as it is, some just have more moments to be photographed. Obviously, if I'm with you for 12 hours you're going to probably have more pictures than, say, someone who hires me for 4. Concentrate on QUALITY over QUANTITY. This will lead to happiness.

Talk to your photographer about "deliverables". If an album is important to you, seek out someone with great samples. If a DVD is important to you, seek out a photographer that is okay with offering this. Trying to talk a DVD out of a photographer that doesn't offer one isn't the route to go. Remember, this is ALL about "good fit"! Make sure you understand your deliverables...your rights and what remains with the photographer...and how you're able to use your pictures legally.

Finally, HOURS....try to understand how much time you need to allot for awesome shots. Giving your photographer 15 minutes to shoot your formals is just....oy...not very workable. It CAN be done....but it's all about expectations. If you want an awesome collection of shots, you need to allow time for the awesomeness to develop!

6. Keep Your Expectations in Check.

It's really important to KNOW your expectations, relay those to your photographer, and to understand if your expectations are realistic. This will probably be the only time you're going to hire a professional photographer for such a huge event so sometimes people don't know WHAT to expect. Be frank with your photographer when interviewing them, and expect them to be honest, open, and frank with you as well. This is the best way to establish a great, mutually beneficial relationship.

7. In Case of Emergency.

Most professionals have a part in their contract (and can I just say if there IS no contract...RUN!)...about what happens if they get sick, keel over, or if the Earth opens up and swallows them whole. Make sure there is an emergency provision in the contract, to protect yourself.

What it all boils down to is this: Don't be afraid to throw questions at your potential photographer. Any professional should be happy to answer your questions and to explain what to expect the day of your wedding. But, let the conversation happen organically.....you want to create a great, friendly relationship with your photographer.

But, if you want to bust out that exhaustive list of questions....I'm game! Just don't forget the Gold Stars : )

Friday Fractured Thought | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2011-02-11T00:45:00.005-06:00

Welp, I capped off this week with a cruddy cold....FAIL. However, the little screamy one (read: Molly) actually SLEPT through the NIGHT. This, I'm sure, is a complete fluke. I think the only reason she did it was because she knew, in her little baby subconscious, that my husband had volunteered to get up with her all night so I could Nyquil-up. Well played, Baby. Well played.

- The diet, for anyone bored enough to be keeping track, has been one big fat failure this week. I was sick, run a bit ragged, and just didn't give a crap to be honest. So I ate quite a few naughty things. Like Cinnabun Cereal Bars. And mini- Kit Kats left over from Halloween. Next week? Back on the wagon. Hold me to it.

- Thankfully, because lack of appetite has seemed to come along with this cold...I've maintained my weight loss.

- The husband and I are all set to rock for the bridal show this weekend. Well, set as I'll ever be for someone who has NEVER done a bridal show before. We've gone with a kind of "Grandma's House/Kitchen" theme with the booth. We'll see if it flows or is a major disaster. Either way, I'll be at the Wedding Show & Tell on Sunday (THIS Sunday) from 11 to 3:30. It's at the Schlitz Audubon Center in Milwaukee. Be there. Get fun swag.

- I haven't bought Photoshop actions in a REALLY long time, but on a whim picked up Jesh de Rox's action set. I LURVE this set....very much up my alley.

- Although I am far from a football fan (and quite glad the season is over), it would be pretty crappy of me not to at least acknowledge the epic Packer win this week. I actually watched the whole game (so did Betty....Molly cried). Not only is it kind of cool that our team won, the end of the football season signals to me that Baseball (and with it....summer!!!) is right around the corner!!

- Speaking of Super Bowl, how terrible was the talent? Holy cow. First Christina botches the anthem (too much concentration on her various vocal runs...not enough on the actual words, methinks).....Lea Michele gives a very "BAR-BARA" performance....not terrible, but not exactly fodder for football fans, and then Fergie. Oh good lord, Fergie. I mean...really? Sweet Child O' Mine. She should be booted from the music industry for life for defiling such a great, classic song. It would have been AWESOME to see Axl (even though he's all bloated and braided now) up there with Slash. AWESOME.

- In closing, I really learned this week the value of our local community, how beneficial it is to have like-minded folks you trust to bounce ideas off of, and how great it is to have friends who have a shared passion for shutter clicks and common sense business approaches. It's such a UNIQUE community, and that is why I love it. Computer hugs to all of you, you know who you are.

Molly, Betty, black blanket.....simplicity. (Betty has also mastered the art of the fake smile):

Brotherly Love | Milwaukee Family Photographer

2011-02-05T16:55:00.004-06:00

Today I took a quick trip up to Milwaukee ('Stallis to be exact) to capture Kari, her hubby and their two adorable little boys Max and Henry. The two boys were natural as could be in front of the camera, which is always big relief (having a 3 year old I know how unpredictable they can be, mood-wise)

We even let the boys climb on their bedroom dresser.....

Enjoy the sneak peek! : )

This one slays me. How CUTE is this kid?!

Friday Fractured Thought | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2011-02-04T10:14:00.004-06:00

- First off, in super-exciting news, I've lost SEVEN (well hello there collarbone....long time no see!) POUNDS on a combination of the 30 Day Shred, the Last Chance Workout, and a low calorie diet. BOO YAH!

- The really big news this week? Snowmageddon of course....which wasn't really that big of a deal. We hunkered down in the house. Betty and Daddy played cards. I guess it's not THAT exciting if I don't get to miss work because of the weather. Just another day for me.

- The husband and I went and saw Ben Folds last Friday. GREAT show....very much subdued (and he did The Luckiest, very cool). However, BOO to The Riverside in Milwaukee for making the concert goers stand outside in sub-zero temps. You couldn't have let them wait inside? Really?

- We're currently on the hunt for a part-time nanny in the Beloit/Janesville area. So, if anyone knows any reliable nanny-type folks, hit me up on email. It would only be until May or so.

- In keeping with my New Year's Resolution (so far, I'm keeping ALL of them...which is nuts)...I signed up for the Flashbus Tour Workshop that is coming to Madison. Very excited.

- I had some major business related nuggets floating around in my head this week. A storefront space in Beloit that would be PERFECT for Type A opened up. I really really seriously considered it. A storefront is my main goal for the business....and I know it's all about pulling the trigger at the right time. After a talk with the hubby, we decided now is not really that time. Kids are too young and there will always be perfect spaces.

- This weekend I have a family session coming up, a few meetings, and next week I get to do my taxes.....fun for all! : ) I also heard a rumor that there is some sort of football game thingie going on this weekend, but don't know what that's all about.

A moment with Betty and Molly:

Molly looks super-duper thrilled here. Kind of looks like Betty is talking her ear off and Molly is thinking "I...DON'T...CAAARREEEE"

Ben Folds from the HTC Evo. I'm all techy now.

FormSpring-y | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2011-01-31T20:47:00.001-06:00

So, I'm hunkering down for the world-ending snow storm we're supposed to get....which leads me to trying to find new and fun things on the Interwebs to play with.

Enter Formspring......you can ask me whatever you want...I promise to answer...(well...I promise to consider answering)

Ask about photography. Ask about weddings.....ask anything that could be on your mind about me or Type A.

Could be fun!

http://www.formspring.me/typeaimages

98 Candles | Kindred Spirits Hospice Photographer

2011-01-30T15:28:00.002-06:00

Celebrations are a part of life, and I can't think of anything more worth celebrating than 98 birthdays.

This sitting was part of the Kindred Spirits Hospice Program. If you know someone who is a patient with hospice, Type A Images offers free portrait and documentary photography to patients and their families.

Friday Fractured Thought | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2011-01-27T23:09:00.004-06:00

- Shot my first wedding of 2011 this week and I am really excited to get back into the swing of things work-wise. As I remarked to one of the wedding guests, I was just super excited to be having a conversation with someone that didn't involve talking about baby poop or sippies or "No, you CANNOT watch WALL-E for a 10th time today"

- With a lot of my friends gearing up to attend WPPI soon, I realize I have to concentrate on that as one of my goals: attend WPPI 2012...because lord knows by that time I'll need a vacation.

- I ordered some new stickers as a handout to visitors to my booth at the Wedding Show & Tell on February 13th ....they are SUPER cute...at least I think so. You'll have to come visit the Schlitz Audubon Center on the 13th to check them out.

- I am NOT a Football fan, by any means (I'm more of a baseball gal)...but that game on Sunday was pretty great.

- The wedding photography world (yes, we have a "world") is all "abuzz" with news that CPI, the company that runs the Walmart Portrait Studio and Sears Portrait Studio, has purchased the well-known and somewhat loathed wedding photography mill Bella. So, it's official...Bella is now truly the Walmart of wedding photography. So much for that high end feel of the Denis Reggie experience. Honestly, I'm not sure why any bride/groom/client would ever want to play Russian Roulette with the memories of their big day by hiring on Bella and taking a chance on who their shooter will be. Get to know your photographer, believe me...they'll be with you all day long. Last thing you want is to be stuck with some poor schmuck who is more concerned about how badly his parent company is treating him than capturing your day artfully and completely.

CPI isn't exactly known for treating their photographers well. And in the end, do you really want to book your wedding photographer in the same place you can pick up Preparation H and leggings designed by Miley Cyrus? I don't think so.

- I've lost a total of 4 lbs. of baby weight on the "Shred" so far....was kind of hoping for more as January comes to a close...we'll see how February goes. My husband...who has NOT been working out as much as I have...has apparently lost 6 lbs. He also gets more calories per day than I do. Shenanigans...seriously.

- I've watched two full seasons of The Biggest Loser in the last two weeks....serves as a bit of motivation in case I don't feel like moving my lazy behind off the couch.

- Tonight the husband and I are heading out on the town in Milwaukee to see Ben Folds. Really excited...not only to see Ben again, but to have a night out without the kids! Much needed!

- This week is shaping up to be busy, with a Kindred Spirits hospice sitting on Sunday, Molly's 2 month doctor visit (where hopefully we can try to get to the bottom of her screaming obsession), and a few bridal meetings to top it off.

Don't forget, photographers book up quickly...sometimes up to a year and a 1/2 in advance...2011 is nearly booked full so if you're getting married and haven't secured your shooter yet, email me and let's set something up! It's high booking season!

It's official...I have two Ginger Kids.....

Molly looks downright snooty in this picture!

Trip to the Dentist | Milwaukee Corporate Photography

2011-01-26T14:58:00.004-06:00

I am one of those rare folks who really kind of likes going to the dentist. For one, nothing beats that "just from the dentist" clean teeth feeling. For two, I am one of those types that likes getting praise whenever possible...and I'm a diligent flosser...something my own dentist remarks on each visit. It's nice to be noticed : )

Today I headed up to Glendale to do some shots for Stephanie Murphy, DDS and her staff at her new office located at 7040 North Port Washington Rd Suite 410. I don't get the opportunity to do too many corporate type shoots so it was a nice change of pace. The office is GORGEOUS and I loved that they had TV's above the dental chairs. So, if you're looking for a new dentist to call your very own, I highly recommend giving Dr. Murphy and her staff a call.

The shots taken today will be featured on the practice's website @ http://www.milwaukeewidentist.com/

Enjoy!

Cheesy Copied Press Release | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2011-01-25T10:59:00.003-06:00

Beloit, WI 1/25/2011

WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, is thrilled to announce Type A Images has been selected to receive the prestigious annual WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 for Wedding Photography

Recognition for the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 is determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from over 750,000 WeddingWire newlyweds. Our past clients are among those that shared their experiences on WeddingWire, the largest wedding review site in the nation.

Type A Images stands among the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire community, representing quality and service excellence within the wedding industry. Awards were given to the top wedding professionals across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, and were based on the overall professional achievements throughout the past year.

“WeddingWire is honored to celebrate the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire community,” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “With the annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program, WeddingWire has the unique opportunity to recognize the best wedding professionals across the US and Canada. We applaud Type A Images for their professionalism and dedication to enhancing the wedding planning experience last year.”

We are happy to announce that Type A Images is among the very best Wedding Photographers within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites WeddingWire, Martha Stewart Weddings, Project Wedding and Weddingbee. We would like to thank our past clients for nominating us to receive the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011.

For more information on the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.

Come Away With Me | Madison Wedding Photographer

2011-01-23T10:06:00.009-06:00

nd I want to wake up with the rain

Falling on a tin roof
While I'm safe there in your arms
So all I ask is for you
To come away with me in the night
Come away with me

-Norah Jones

So, it's a New Year and I'm kicking off the 2011 wedding season with a winter-centric celebration in Madison (that's right...winter-centric. I can make up words...because its my blog)

Page and Adam were married at the lovely Lake Windsor Golf Club in Madison. The room was absolutely stunning with branches, snowflakes, and candles adorning each table. Following their intimate ceremony we even managed to venture outside in the "so cold I couldn't think straight" night.

The reception held some great personal touches. Page's dad gave one of the most touching Father of the Bride speeches I've heard in a long time. But the kicker was when Adam got up and instead of giving a speech, sang the beginning of their first dance song ("Come Away With Me" by Norah Jones) to Page, before leading her out to the dance floor. It was beyond sweet.

Adam and Page, it was a pleasure capturing your big day. Thank you for helping me kick off 2011 with a bang! Enjoy your sneak peek!

"Luke....I am your cufflink"

Adam and Page elected to have a "First Look"...I HIGHLY recommend this. I know it goes against tradition in some sense, but it makes for beautiful images.

Everyone together now: "Awwwwwww"

Yeah....it was cold.

Ceremony and Reception: Lake Windsor Golf Club

DJ: DJ Magic

Friday Fractured Thought | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2011-01-21T03:24:00.005-06:00

Funny how things change.....and how something the size of a large meatloaf (that would be Miss Molly) can shift your schedule in an instant. It's 3:27 AM right now....and I'm taking the moment of relative silence I have while Molly fights sleep to quick write my blog (she's sitting here staring at me....as if to say "I DARE you to put me to bed.....go ahead....try it....."). I used to really pour over my Fractured Thoughts blogs and try really hard to at least make them flow well...and entertain people. Now, I'm lucky if everything is simply spelled correctly and relatively coherent.

- As you can see from my "intro"....yes...I'm still complaining about the lack of sleep. You can count on this to be a regular theme until this kid decides to get herself a pattern. If this becomes too tiresome for you, dear readers, I am glad to recommend some other blogs to read in the meantime.

- The diet is going relatively well...(as I sit here stuffing my face with a 3AM pretzel snack). I've lost 4 lbs so far on a combination of the 30 Day Shred/Last Chance Workout and a 1200 calorie diet. My vice? Sodium. I'm a salt JUNKIE. So....I've been trying to counteract that by drinking a ton of water....so we'll see.

- Wedding Season 2011 officially kicks off tomorrow with a Madison shindig. It's supposed to be bitterly cold this weekend so that'll make things interesting.

- I added a new member to my Type A equipment family....a D700. I've wanted to upgrade for quite some time but was holding out for Nikon's much anticipated D800...which has yet to materialize. So, I bit the bullet and decided on the D700. Haven't had a chance to shoot with it just yet but I'm pretty excited to give it a whirl.

- How great were the Golden Globes? Oh Ricky....so very funny. And I'm very glad the Social Network took home so many honors...much deserved. I've heard some folks were unimpressed by Jesse Eisenberg's performance but I thought he was fabulous. My one complaint about the Globes was the lack of award for Michael C Hall. Even though Dexter was a bit lackluster this season, he still deserved it.

- Just got the heads up that the next Jeopardy test is coming up....I try to audition online each time. Once I got all the way to the 2nd round of tryouts in Chicago before losing terribly to an incredibly smart man who knew a lot about Opera. If I had a bucket list....which I really don't....being on Jeopardy would be on it.

- I just found out that I will be registering Betty for 4K next month. This BLOWS. MY. MIND. My kid cannot be ready for school. No way.

- I finally got out of the house and had some adult interaction time with my fellow photographers in Madison last night. MUCH. NEEDED. let me tell you. We discussed goals for the coming year and it was great to hear what everyone wanted for their businesses. I think I'm well on my way to tackling my various business related endeavors for 2011. A lot of the women in the group spoke about balance and I wish I would have thought to write that down as well. I know right now balancing kids, home, and a full-time self-employment isn't TOO difficult because I'm not busy....but I'm anticipating some real soul searching come June when I'm starting the busy season. Juggling everything is going to be a challenge. One I welcome, but I realize I may need to start really prioritizing....better than I do anyway.

- And speaking of business related items, hubby and I will be at the Wedding Show & Tell show being held at the Audubon Center in Milwaukee on February 13th. I welcome y'all to come out and see us! Putting together my first bridal show booth has been a trip....mainly because I admittedly have no CLUE what I'm doing. It may end up being a design disaster.

- Coming up this week? Back to work! (THANK GAWD). Wedding on Saturday followed by a corporate shoot for a dental office next week. I am SO looking forward to getting back into the swing of things, even for a little bit.

And to top it off...here's the gals.....

Molly....chillin' in her crib

Friday Fractured Thought | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2011-01-14T02:15:00.006-06:00

So, I'm a bit bleary eyed and not so bushy-tailed this week. In fact, I'm writing this blog at 2:16 AM while I listen to my kid grunt and spit and fight sleep next to me. Yes, I'm becoming one of those parents who can really think of nothing more than how little sleep I'm getting and the various issues with my kids. This will change, I'm sure (hopefully soon!) but it's all-consuming currently.

- Kidlet #2 has a nasty case of the colic. This has lead to blood-curdling screaming nightly from about 6pm until she konks out around 10pm....and then is up pretty much every 2 hours or so with more of the same. We're running the gamut of "cures" currently, from Zantac to wraps to new food to ColicCalm. Hoping against hope that one or some combination is the magic cure. It really makes you reevaluate your choices as a parent. For one, I used to be pretty anti-pacifier. I'm just not a fan, especially in older kids. But, if it helps the kid fall asleep peacefully...at this point I'm willing to buy stock in Binkies if it works.

- One thing I learned NOT to watch while up in the wee hours of the night? The show "Infested!". It's on some science-y channel (or animal-y channel, not sure). It's all about various infestations people have dealt with: mice, rats, bugs, snakes. You name it. It is straight up GROSS. But I was hooked. It was fascinating...especially the amount people will just deal with before packing up and moving.

- On a similar note, a mouse (which I consider to be the grossest creatures alive) took up residence in our garage for the winter....and scared the life out of the me the other night when I opened the door to our garage to throw out some recycling. He leapt (leaped?....ah, whatever) from our recycling bin after I startled him and I screamed like a little girl. I. Hate. Mice. So , I promptly went and got some mice-killing stuff. Goodbye mouse.

- The "Lose the Baby Fat by Wedding Season Kick-Off" Diet (yeah, that needs a shorter name) is in full swing. I've worked out 8 days in a row (alternating the 30 Day Shred with another workout from some lady whose name I'm spacing on right now). I've lost 3 lbs. since I started. I'm also on a low-calorie diet, which means no more stacks of syrupy waffles in the morning...and no more soda, which is a gigantic feat for the this girl. I never needed to diet before having kids. I also never worked out. I was one of those people who walked the Mile Run in grade school...out of shear laziness. So, the fact that I've been sticking to this workout routine is a miracle. Here's hoping it continues.

- I got all my studio light stuff in the mail this week. I haven't had much of a chance to play with it, but I did some test shots of Betty. I'm hoping to get more time with the stuff once we figure out the Molly-Never-Stops-Screaming situation.

- I took Miss Betty on a "Girls Day" to see Tangled....what a CUTE movie. Probably up there with a favorite Disney flick.

- Teen Mom 2!! Yes please!

- I took the girls out for our first "outing" yesterday. It was relatively successful in that Molly only cried on the way TO our destination and Betty didn't throw any massive tantrums. I even threw in a trip to Target to further test my abilities as a "Mom of two". Not bad....except I learned that fitting a 3 year old and a baby carrier into a cart and expecting to have room for purchases is...well..expecting too much. I had to squeeze everything I bought into the seat next to Betty....which led to her poking a hole in my goat cheese package. Fun.

- I'm still on maternity leave, for the most part, but I am itching to get back to work. I have a wedidng coming up on the 22nd which cannot come soon enough. Back to the land of the living!

- So, that being said, I'm taking bookings for portrait sessions...give me a jingle and lets set something up because if I don't photograph something soon I'm liable to freak out and start, oh I dunno, selectively coloring artistically tilted pictures of my kids.

- Wedding season 2011 is fast becoming completely booked.....which is early for me. I'm twice as booked as I was this time last year, which is surprising...so if you're looking to get Type A for your 2011 event I would contact me sooner rather than later. I'm looking to only take about 5 more weddings for the year.

- That being said, if you're a 2012 bride, hit me up! Plenty of space!

- Don't forget to vote! http://wibride.com/best-of

Up this week? Not a whole heck of a lot. Finding sleep where I can get it. I got 10 hours of housekeeping for Christmas and that starts next week and not a moment too soon. This whole housewife/mom thing is a lot harder than I thought....and I can't imagine how much I'll have to complain and whine about once work starts back up! Oh lucky readers!

Here's your moment-o-Betty and Molly.....enjoy!

My life at the moment. Good times!

The kiddo testing out the new studio lights.

Friday Fractured Thought | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2011-01-07T11:46:00.003-06:00

-Another week and no more sleep was to be had. We took Molly to the doctor last week and he confirmed acid reflux, changed her diet and we also added in this product called ColicCalm. Nothing really seems to be working for long-term, really. The ColicCalm was a lifesaver on Night 1, but last night the kid just wanted to scream....and scream....and scream some more. It'll all catch up to me soon, I'm sure.

- The hubby and I actually WENT OUT for New Years. This never happens. For one, I typically work on NYE. For two, we rarely go out as it is. Symptom of having 2 kids, a job where I work mostly weekends and...well...laziness. We were still home by 10:30. Party on, Wayne.

- I sent out a shameless vote grub post on Facebook earlier this week, but no harm doing it again. Wisconsin Bride is holding their annual "Best Of" voting right now. It runs until March (I believe) and they finally got with the program and added a Best Photographer category (which wasn't there when they launched the contest earlier...I swear!). You can vote here: http://wibride.com/best-of

- This week I attempted to put together an album for my husband and I using our own wedding pictures. Epic. Fail. I guess I never really LOOKED at my wedding pictures with a good eye before because I am willing to bet about 75% of them are out of focus and I noticed that about 90% of them (including outdoor shots) were shot at ISO 1600. Very disappointing, because I had to do some major fixin' to the files to make them even usable. Oh well, live and learn!

- I had a dream about shooting a wedding last night. I am DYING to get back to work and some semblance of normalcy!

- I started the 30 Day Shred this week....and whoa Nellie am I out of shape...but I'm sticking with it. So far anyway. Yeah, me and every other New Years Resolution-er. I had to laugh at how PACKED the gym by our house was. I can't do the gym. I have to work out alone, in the dark depths of my basement, where no one can see me looking insane and struggling to breathe after 10 jumping jacks.

- Along with the "Shred" I dumped Mountain Dew (going on over a month, so far). I know, I know...nuts, right? Mountain Dew was my life-water....the only thing I drank....my go-to beverage. But, with the high blood pressure and wanting to dump the weight, it was sayonara friend.

- The Monkey turned 1 month old this week. She's still puny. Very stumpy, like her sister.

- The inquiries for 2011 and 2012 weddings have been NUTS this week...I know, EVERYONE says that (look how popular I am!!) but seriously, I think everyone and their brother got engaged this month. It's awesome.

- I'm working on finalizing all the plans for my booth for the upcoming Wedding Show & Tell being held at the Audubon Center in Milwaukee on February 13th. It's a nice, intimate show and I'd love to see some of you out and about!

This week? RELAX. I have very little going on outside of sales taxes, income tax paperwork gathering and trying the eek out some sleep wherever I can get it.

And now, your moment-o-my kids:

Finally got Betty a haircut. Much needed.

This is pretty much how Monkey looks all. the. time. Cranky and crabby and screaming.

I got my new studio lights and backdrop stuff in this week....so I pulled Betty aside for a bit of practice with the softbox.

WE HAVE A WINNER | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2011-01-02T10:34:00.003-06:00

It was a close one, but we have a winner for the Best of 2010 Contest!

Congrats to Angela and Kevin! The shot of Angela in the church basement was voted as the year's favorite out of 476 votes!

For being winners, Angela and Kevin receive a 16x20 gallery wrap of any of their wedding images they choose (though this one is quite nice!)

Congrats again and thank you everyone for a fabulous 2010!

(Angela and Kevin, let me know when you've picked your image and I'll get your canvas wrap ordered!)

Friday Fractured Thought | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-12-31T10:14:00.003-06:00

You'll have to excuse any typo's or lazy grammar in this post. I. AM. POOPED. I'm working on about 2 hours of sleep right now (insert world's tiniest violin playing the saddest saddest song right here). The baby? She has the acid reflux....and it makes her none-too-happy.

We're getting massive payback for gloating about how wonderful Betty was in the sleep department. Ok....point taken, Karma Bus. You can stop now.

- First off, Christmas! This year was rather subdued. We went to my inlaw's church on Christmas Eve. I had never been to a non-Catholic Christmas service before, so I was a bit out of my element. This church gives the kiddos toys to play with during the service and this caused Betty to be rather....loud and obnoxious during the service (at one point she yelled out "THESE TOYS ARE MUPPETS!!" mid-service). Add onto that the LONGEST. SERMON. EVER. (and that's saying a lot coming from a Catholic). By 8:30 I was ready to hit the hay.

Christmas morning was a study in consumerism run amok. I didn't really realize how MUCH we bought for our kid (I mean...Santa bought...). Our living room has been strewn with cars, trucks, Barbies and dinosaurs ever since.

- As I mentioned above, Kid 2 has come down with a case of acid reflux...which leads to bloody-murder screaming and spit-ups galore. Not. fun. It's a good thing she's cute.

- I got myself a new phone for Christmas! This is BIG BIG news folks. I am not a phone person. I don't really text (though I'm learning) and prior to last week I was rockin' a pay-as-you-go flip phone that served my purposes....well, not so well...but it made phone calls. Now I got myself a fancy-shmancy HTC Evo 4. And once I learn to use it I'm sure it will make my life easier. So, take note 2011 clients...you can now text me and I may actually text back instead of calling you back to let you know that I don't really know how to text!

- I am officially in "must lose this baby weight" thought-mode. I didn't gain nearly as much with Molly as I did with Betty, but I feel all out of sorts being quite a bit larger than I normally am. So, I went and got myself Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred DVD...and the hubster set me up in the basement with a TV and a workout mat. It's ON.

- I've been dragging my feet with doing my taxes for the end of the year this week. I don't use any kind of bookkeeping software, I do it all on my own with my handy-dandy color-coded spreadsheets. It's daunting come December though. And I'm still amazed at how many work-miles I put on the poor Saturn this year. Methinks a new car is in my future come wedding season 2011.

- I've purchased all the stuff for my home studio this week. I intend on holing away for the remainder of the winter and mastering some lighting if it kills me. Hopefully by spring I can start having some non-Betty models in to test it all out.

- Following along with my resolution to educate myself, I signed up for Dave Jackson's portrait workshop for this March. Totally jazzed about that, and hopefully I can fit in another workshop with someone this summer (I'm eyeing the Zack Arias Chicago shop in June)

- This February 13th I'm going to be doing my 1st bridal show in Milwaukee (the Wedding Show and Tell)...and I have 2 tickets for the show if anyone is interested.

- In Type A booking news, I have about 8 2011 openings remaining before I close it out for the year. I did 32 weddings last year and I'm wanting to maybe scale that back a bit for this year as I adjust to the whole "two kids...one who screams all the time" thing. I say maybe because I said that last year too and had a bit of a hard time saying "no".

And I usually think people are kind of full of it when they post non-stop, everyday about how many inquiries are coming in....but it's that time of year, folks. People are getting engaged like mad and, well, those inquiries ARE going to start pouring in....so time is of the essence if you're getting hitched in 2011.

And with that, I leave with your moment of Betty & Molly....

Finding out how dinosaurs say goodnight.....a rare moment where Molly isn't screaming like Ronnie James Dio.

Don't we look as tired and worn out as your would expect us to? Christmas morning scrubbiness!

Yes...I'm hip now.

You Say You Want a Resolution | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-12-28T12:16:00.003-06:00

Happy Almost 2011!

As "Miss Type A" I delight in making lists. I am, in fact, a compulsive list maker. So, when it comes to the end of the year and I have to sit and come up with resolutions for the New Year, I welcome the task. I believe that just by writing it down I am held to following through on the resolution, no matter what.

Of course, it doesn't always work out that way...

I tend to aim a bit high...and I tend to expect WAY too much of myself. Not necessarily a BAD thing, but because I aim a bit TOO high I tend to abandon most of my resolutions by March.

So I'm going to try something new this year. I'm going to make my list....and I'm going to ask you, dear Interwebs, to keep me accountable. Kick my arse into gear, if you will. I'm putting my list out there in the public forum in hopes that if I promise to commit my time to something and then fail, some Internet pal will email me and say "Hey! Get with the program!"

Accountability. Trying something new.

So, coming into 2011, I hope to:

1. Focus on lighting. I want to learn the ins and out of lighting portraits, lighting weddings, and getting the most out of off-camera flash. It's something that kind of scares me a bit, and I'm taking it all on as my biggest challenge this year. I'm building a studio in my basement as a practice "hub"...in hopes that I'll hit my stride by this spring.

2. Dress better. No more pink plaid jackets. Seriously.

3. Be more patient with my kid(s). Now, being that you (the Internet) don't live with me you'll kind of just have to take my word for it that I'm increasing my patience in 2011. But, I'm trustworthy!

4. Education! I resolve to take at least 3 workshops this year. First up? David E Jackson's portrait workshop in March.

5. Learn to say "No". This is important...even though I hate to do it. In order to maintain my sanity and have time in my life to, oh I dunno, sleep...breathe....just be. I have to learn not to accept everything that comes along, work related or not...and to let go of the guilt that comes with saying "No".

So there it is....kind of a tall order, I know, but here's hoping I can at least make it to, say, June before I abandon all hope!

I'm looking forward to 2011...it's going to be a fabulous year for Type A....I can just feel it. I'll see you all in the New Year!!!

Friday Fractured Thought | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-12-24T05:08:00.006-06:00

Happy Christmas Eve!!

I'm really looking forward to Christmas this year. It's our first in our new home, first for Molly, and first year that Betty really "gets" the whole Santa thing...which makes it lots of fun. We're going to have a great holiday! We figured out how to use our fireplace and with the stockings hung and fake holly adorning every square inch of our living room, we're ready for the festivities! One of the best things about Christmas is it gives you permission to be straight-up tacky without shame.

- Molly is settling in nicely...but is a bit "fussier" than Betty was...or at least from what I remember. We seem to be experiencing a bit of parental amnesia. It's funny how easily you forget the effects of sleeplessness. Having two is a whole new level of tired.

- I'm finally off of bed rest, after about 2 weeks of spiking blood pressure and lots of napping. I am NOT good at doing nothing all day. After all the trouble I had this go-around, I've decided that 2 kids is enough....

- Decided this week to pull a "What Not to Wear" style clothing dump on my closet. Got rid of a LOT. Then I realized I now have no pants left that actually fit me. Probably not the best idea to clean out my closet only 2 weeks post-partum.

- I broke my maternity leave this week for one infant sitting, and realized how different my leave is this time around. With Betty, I couldn't even THINK about returning to work before my 12 given weeks. I dreaded it and when the day did come I was a mess. So much different now that I actually love my job. I felt lost without photographing something besides my kids. I can't believe I still have another month before my next wedding....

- Haven't gotten my own copy yet, but the new Wedding Planner & Guide has been released! Check out the Madison copy for Type A Images' new print ad!

- Got an email this week that Type A Images has been named one of The Knot's "Best Of" Weddings for 2011. How this came about? I have no idea. I don't advertise with The Knot, so it kind of surprised me I was even on the radar...but pretty cool!

- One of the cool things about being forced to get up in the middle of the night with my new kid....Tivo'd geekery. I've been "taping" all sorts of fun, geeky shows to watch as I'm up late at night. It's currently 5:16 AM and I'm indulging in a History channel show about John Wilkes Booth. Good times.

- The 2010 Best Of contest is still running until the first of the year. See below and make sure to vote for your favorite shot!!

- Twilight: Eclipse Riff Trax? Oh. My. Goodness. HILARITY. Seriously, I know I mention Riff Trax quite a bit, but if you haven't heard of or seen Riff Trax, DO IT. It's the only way to watch Twilight....or any other horrible movie.

- Speaking of horrible movies, Betty and I attempted to watch Santa Paws the other day. I made it about 5 minutes in and just couldn't do it. It was too stupid even for a 3 year old. I hate to say it, but I prefer Santa Buddies. If I have to choose. Of course....in a perfect world, neither would exist.

- My thoughts this week have turned to New Years Resolutions....working on an actual list (because I'm Type A like that and actually write my resolutions down).

- On kind of a bummer note, I found out recently that my elementary/middle school is closing at the end of this school year. I went there for 10 years (it was a private Catholic school, pre-K through 8th grade). I also have aunts and uncles that went there. My dad went there as well. They just didn't have enough kids (there were only 9 kids in my 8th grade class, and that was years ago....so I can imagine how bad it got). Sad to see that end....

- On the booking/work front, I've got 16 weddings booked thus far for 2011....which is 6 more than I had booked at this time last year, so it looks like I'm booking faster and earlier than 2010. I do have some prime summer dates still open so give me a ring if you're still looking for a photographer for your upcoming nuptials. I will be stopping at 25 this year just to give myself some room to...you know...breathe and sleep and stuff.

I hope everyone has an amazing holiday and wonderful New Year. The last two New Years I was shooting weddings, so I may actually make it a date night with the hubby this year. After the stressful last month we kind of deserve it!

Betty and I did an quick "sitting" in our kitchen the other day, and I love the results. My kid is so fun to photograph....completely effortless, I'm lucky she loves the camera. I hope Molly follows suit, but so far everytime I put the camera in her face she gives me "poop face"...which is all scrunchy and purple...not exactly photo-worthy. I did manage to get a FEW decent shots off however.

Have a VERY Merry Christmas!!!

No "poop-face" here.....and check out the awesome "do".

I take a lot of pictures of Betty. Like....a lot a lot. But this has to be, hands down, one of my favorites. Think I may actually get this one printed. Just goes to show that sometimes all you need is a big window, good light, and a blank kitchen wall.

Ok....So I Lied | Rockford Infant Photographer

2010-12-21T17:46:00.003-06:00

Rules are made to be broken. And, in my life, maternity leave is meant to be ignored sometimes. I am not the type of gal who can just rest on my laurels and NOT photograph anything for an entire 6 weeks. Just can't do it.

So when my former bride Stacey contacted me and let me know she was going to be in town for the holidays and wanted pics of her adorable new bundle Reagan, how could I say no? Far from it...I jumped at it...especially after not leaving the house for anything but doctor visits and a quick, painful run to Walmart in 2 weeks. Routine? Back to work? Yes please!

Reagan made it a dream session. She was wide awake but super-still and calm. The perfect infant model.

So, totally worth breaking maternity leave for! Enjoy the sneak peek Stacey and Tony and have a GREAT holiday!

Location: Private Home

Best of 2010 Contest!! | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-12-19T17:55:00.003-06:00

So, when one is on bed rest (and not supposed to be using the computer...shhhhh) one has time to do more "administrative" type tasks. Such as sifting through 32 weddings worth of images to pick out my favorites. Then, taking those images and narrowing them down to 20. This is what I did last week. Good times.

This is not easy folks. I love all of my weddings like little children, and I really wish the contest could just include every picture I took. But, I did get it down to 20...somehow....and here they are. My favorites of the past 12 months.

Each is a "favorite" of mine for a different reason. Either I love the story behind it....or I just really think it was a neat capture....but whatever the reason, these are the images that jumped into my head when I started compiling this list.

Now, this is a contest. At the end of this post you'll find a poll. Let me know which of the 20 images is your favorite. Voting runs through 1/1/2011. The winning couple will receive a 16x20 Gallery Wrap.

1. Take a larger than normal bridal party....add one of my favorite stateline destinations (Dari Ripple Ice Cream Stand) and mix in one simple direction: Act really bored. Lord knows WHY I told them to do that....I thought it was just kind of funny. Ended up being one of my favorite group shots of the year.

2. There are really few words to describe how much I love this picture. I think it just tells a story all on its own.

3. Weddings are days full of emotion...and can range from deliriously happy to bittersweet sadness. I think this picture just captures the roller coaster of emotion associated with the average wedding day.

4. The First Dance is one of those wedding moments that lends itself to great, intimate pictures. I just really like the simplicity of this picture. Because in that moment, all there is in the room is the couple. Nothing else.

5. The dog makes it, I think.

6. I was a few months pregnant when I took this picture....and as soon as I shot it I "chimped"and looked at the back of the screen and got teary. Because I was all full of hormones and it was a daughter and her dad and such a sweet moment. Then I blubbered like an idiot for the remainder of the Father/Daughter dance.

7. Some pictures are just a matter of happenstance. Like rainbows that appear out of nowhere and then vanish in a heartbeat. So glad we caught this one.

8. Another father/daughter moment....except it's dad's wedding this time.

9. Kids often create great photo moments without meaning to. Like this one who bellied up to the bar and shot me this quick look.

10. When you can get a bride on skates....you know it's going to be a great wedding day.....

11. Beautiful locations deserve a nod as well....because they, obviously, MAKE the image. It doesn't get more amazing than St.Josephat's in Milwaukee.

12. This was one of those shots that was just "luck" really. It was before the ceremony, and the bagpiper was taking a bit of a break. I think he knew I was taking his picture, but like a true professional he stayed looking straight ahead. That, or he was ignoring me hoping I'd go away. Either way....love the shot.

13. Another first dance image. I just really like it. Again, it's just the two of them, enveloped in one another, soaking in the day.

14. This particular bride had the most amazingly beautiful dress. It curled around her like some sort of sugary confection and it was completely photogenic from every angle.

15. The story here? Mom....sweet, crying mom. Poor thing, I just wanted to hug her. But, I photographed her instead.

16. I said this in this particular wedding's blog, but this shot just reminds me of Little House on the Prairie. This bride, Sarah, was just a natural beauty and her heirloom dress was simply beautiful. One of my favorite bridal shots of the year.

17. Moms...they make such great images sometimes. You can just feel the "happy" here.

18. Dads make great images too.

19. The thing I love about this picture is you can't really tell where it was taken. I'll reveal the secret: church basement....mustard brown/yellow-y walls....and a clump of plastic "decorative" flowers in one corner. Bust out the 85 1.4, add an effervescent bride, and VIOLA! Love!

20. This is one of those pictures I love because of the subject and the story. This particular wedding had just a fun, funny bridal party that was FULL of ideas and suggestions. When I took this I had one of the groomsmen holding a flash for me, and another was "directing" the shoot trying to get a reaction out of the groom. His direction? "Someone just gave you a puppy!!!"

Snap! This is what that looks like. Puppies and Happiness!

Friday Fractured Thought | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-12-17T14:35:00.004-06:00

So, I'm slowly but surely easing back into my regular, yet slightly modified, routine. Thank goodness....I am a creature of habit, and I hate unexpected wrenches in long-held plans. Like bed rest. Totally not in my schedule!

I'm so "off my game" this week that I had nearly forgotten it was Friday! How tragic would THAT have been? : )

So, without further delay......

- Let's first talk about Dexter. The finale? I was a bit...underwhelmed. After last year's gigantic cliffhanged (hello....dead Rita in a bathtub!)....this year's was a bit....yawn-fest. But, I am not abandoning my show. Still fabulous.

- On the same note, I was a bit surprised to hear Michael C Hall and Jennifer Carpenter of Dexter are divorcing. Sad....but, hey....that makes TWO guys on my "5 Guys It's Okay to Crush On" list that left their women this week (the other being Zac Efron).

- I got off bed rest on Wednesday. I tell you, I never want to be on bed rest for anything ever again. I am SO not the "bed rest" type. It drove me nuts to just SIT. Couldn't stand it. I also watched more Law & Order: SVU than any person ever should.

- My kid learned to write her name!! How? I have no idea. She just busted it out this week. This is the best picture I have of the results. My Mother in Law took this picture with her point and shoot....and it's prompted me to offer her use of one of my spare DSLR's : ) She also made an attempt to write "Molly". I know, it's the Proud Mama in me, but pretty good for a 3 year old!
- It was quite the feat, but I compiled 20 of my favorite wedding images from 2010 for my "Best of 2010" contest. I will be posting the picks soon and open voting through the end of the year. The winners will win some awesome prizes!

- I got to give my Grandfather his early Christmas present this week: his 1941 High school yearbook. His response? "I don't think you know how much this means to me".....Awwww...it's what I love about this season. Finding that once-in-a-lifetime kind of gift. It was pretty neat. He went through the book and told me stories about some of the folks. Amazing how sharp the memory can be when presented with a 70 year old reminder of your past.

- I've been working on compiling an Amazon Wish List of clothes for next season....again, part of my New Years resolution to dress a bit better. Why didn't anyone ever clue me in to Modcloth.com before? LOVE that site! Very cute stuff!

Coming up this week: Final preparations for the holiday with a MUCH overdue hair appointment (my roots are abysmal....seriously. Trashtastic). A few bridal meetings that were postponed several times due to the arrival of Molly, and I'm actually squeezing in an infant shoot next week for a former bride (because I can't stand going so long without photographing something, apparently!)

Then, I'm getting my relaxed, stress-free Christmas on. Can't wait!

Miss Molly.....who I've taken to calling "Monkey"...because...well...as much as it may scar her for life, the kid does look like a little baby monkey with all that spiky hair. A cute monkey, of course. Not a weird, red-butt monkey or something.

Betty has been pretty cooped up lately, so we busted out the messiness and made Christmas cookies the other day. She enjoyed herself....obviously.

Molly meets her Great Great (yes, TWO greats) Aunt Rose this week.

Monkey. In a rare awake moment.

Friday Fractured Thought - Bed Rest Edition | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-12-10T15:45:00.003-06:00

To a busy mom, there are few things that sound more calming than "bed rest". I used to think so anyway. All day...in bed...nothing but bad TV and snacks and sleep.

I was wrong.

It's not calming, really. It's boring. Really, really boring. I wasn't even supposed to touch the computer all week....I don't think the doctor quite understood what he was asking.

- So for those not aware of my current condition, I developed pre-eclampsia and was induced last week. We welcomed little Molly....and then the pre-eclampsia decided to hang around...and get worse. Instead of re-admitting me to the hospital I was put on strict bed rest. I had a visit with the doc today and was hoping things would have improved...but no dice. So more laying and thinking of how bored I am. *sigh*

- So, not much going on this week, obviously, unless you want the run-down on all the TV I've watched (What's Love Got to Do With It? was on TV this morning. WIN)

- The husband has been invaluable helping this week...and my in-laws have jumped in to help watch the girls (doesn't that sound cool? THE GIRLS! ) It's great to have family available for times like this.

- I had been planning a small get-together for the photographers in the area for this week, which obviously had to be cancelled...totally bummed me out. I had been really looking forward to getting everyone together. Hopefully I can reschedule.

- Molly is adjusting well and her sleep schedule has been as wonky as can be expected for a newborn. She sleeps ALL day. Like a cat. Very nocturnal.

- Still not quite done with my Christmas shopping, so hopefully I can get some online shopping done while laying here useless in bed.

- BTW, Beloit Hospital? Their food is pretty good. But they forgot my ice cream three times.

- I have a new show I just love: Raising Hope....HILARIOUS. It does, however, strike me as the type of show that probably won't last very long.

- I'll be keeping people posted on when I'm back to working order, I feel terrible as I have several couples that have been waiting patiently as I've had to reschedule our meetings. All I can say is thank you so much for you patience! All of this mess is certainly inconvenient.

And to leave you on an adorable note, here is Miss Molly....all fuzzy hair and cuteness. I'll be on and off the internets (I'm supposed to be keeping a calm, no stimuli-type enviroment...but really, no internet? Who are we kidding? As long as its quiet, I suppose).

Friday Fractured Thought - Baby Edition! | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-12-03T07:27:00.004-06:00

Molly Anne Reseburg

6 lbs 0 oz 18 "

Born December 2, 2010 4:14 AM

Well, what had been shaping up to be a relatively quiet week took an unexpected turn. So, I give you the Friday Fractured Thoughts.....Baby edition!

Tuesday morning I woke up with an OB appt. on my schedule...and a raging sinus infection. I felt absolutely terrible as I trudged my way to the doctor's office. The nurse gave me a sympathetic look as she got my weight (181!! Eeeek!) and sat me down to take my blood pressure. My only thought was "let's get this done so I can go home and collapse into bed".

Well, not so fast there....my BP was up. And my limbs were all swollen. I had been seeing sparkly spots. I had a massive headache. All that added up to one thing: pre-eclampsia.

Wonderful.

They admitted me to the hospital for observation. I wasn't worried. I figured they get everything stablized and send me home to finish up all the stuff I still needed to do before baby's due date.

Hours passed....my BP fluctuated....and after 24 hours my doc came in with a look of "So...you thought you were going home, eh?"

Not so fast!

He recommended inducing. Oy. Vey. My first thought was "I don't even have CURTAINS for the baby's room yet!"

My 2nd thought? Jon...who was away on business.

After some tense calls and sending my father in law down to Chicago to pick up Jon, we prepared to go ahead. They started the Pitocin drip. Nothing really happened. After a few hours I got an epidural (ouch) and then...more waiting. And sleeping...and waiting. Finally, I sent Jon off to sleep in my other room and I tried to sleep as well. I had gotten next to no sleep in the last 24 hours...and I certainly hadn't planned on having to labor on top of it all.

I was getting impatient after 6 hours and wondered when things would start to get going. I decided to try and shift my position in bed and WHAM!!!!! The baby dropped and I was ready to go. Evidently the epidural worked so well I had no idea the baby was RIGHT. THERE.

Everyone sprung into action...they went and woke up Jon and literally about 5 mins later Molly Anne Reseburg entered the world. Easy as pie.

She was teeny weenie and had a full head of fuzzy dark brown hair.

So, the week didn't exactly unfold as I had planned. I have TWO KIDS. Wow. It's going to take some adjustments to get used to it all, but it's kind of like riding a bike. A very demanding bike that deprives you of sleep.

I am so so happy that she's here and healthy and safe. And I am so so happy to not be pregnant anymore, I have to be honest. I'm looking forward to getting home, getting into a routine (do you expect anything less from a Type A gal?) and getting Miss Betty acclimated to Big Sisterhood. So far, so good. She's very into "can I take care of the baby?" and being a "big helper". Hopefully she doesn't tire of that too quickly. I think once she realizes the squeaky thing isn't going anywhere she may put up a bit of a fuss. I mean...it's not like Betty is the center of attention or anything....really!

I promise lots of pictures to follow (of course!) and thank you everyone for the well-wishes and support! I can't think of a better early Christmas present!

Time of Arrival

She has super duper tiny feet. Obviously not taking after me.

The HAIR. Cracks me up. It almost looks highlighted.

A family of four.

All Maternal and Stuff | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-11-28T23:32:00.002-06:00

A little updating for my current and prospective clients, I am now officially on "Maternity Leave". I am taking a few more prospective client meetings but I will not be taking any sittings until January 22nd, 2011.

If you are interested in booking a sitting with Type A Images after the New Year, feel free to contact me any time and we'll get you booked.

If you are looking to book a wedding in 2011, I am still happy to send out any and all information you would like and set up a time to meet and discuss plans after January 22nd. I am about 1/2 booked for 2011 and prime dates will get snatched up soon after the first of the year, as many people get those rings on their fingers during the holidays.

I will still be updating via the Blog and Facebook and keeping everyone in the "loop".

25 days to go!!! I cannot wait!

Why Can't We Be Friends? | Beloit Family Photographer

2010-11-27T13:10:00.006-06:00

Why can't we be friends, why can't we be friends?

- War

Oh Lauren, Lauren, Lauren. Someday, my dear, we will be buddies. You will look forward to our yearly meeting with rapt attention and excitement. You will pose willingly, happily. You will love "picture day".....someday.

Today....well, not that day. But, we tried something new this year: ninja sneaking and confinement to one area. Keep her busy....try to sneak in what I could....and if all else fails? Begging.

We actually did pretty good, with Lauren's mom and dad helping we got some good shots.

Someday, Lauren. We will be friends : )

She looked up and I snapped this and was so stinkin' happy I got it that I could have packed it in right there! : )

Lauren is a master at face-hiding.

Location: Beloit Public Library

Friday Fractured Thought | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-11-26T12:37:00.004-06:00

Can you believe Thanksgiving is over and we're on our way to Christmas already? Seriously, since wedding season ending it's as if time is moving at warp speed. Doesn't seem to be enough days in a month to get everything done.....

- I actually mixed things up as far as the holiday went this year. In 30 years, I've never deviated from my Turkey Day plans (except for the 1 year I lived in California). Yesterday, I went out of town for Thanksgiving and spent it with my in laws, kiddo, and husband in Chicago. It was REALLY relaxed, fun, and the food @ Fulton's on the River was EXCELLENT. Whoever thought to put roasted marshmallows on top of sweet potatoes is a GENIUS....talk about the ultimate pregnancy food.

This holiday season is going to be a study in new traditions, I think....and I'm excited about that. I can only hope that come December 25th I have a new baby to cuddle.

- I am running a Black Friday sale (me and everyone else, apparently). To save 25% on any Type A Images SMUGMUG order enter the coupon code "BLACKFRIDAY". It's only good until the end of the day today, so jump on it! Go to your pictures here: www.typeaimages.smugmug.com

- If you're not a Facebook "fan" of Type A Images yet, hop on over to www.facebook.com/typeaimages and add yourself. It's the best way to get a heads up on specials, new sitting sneak peeks, and tons of cool info.

- I watched a very small snippet of the American Music Awards. The Bieber Snippet. Maybe it's a sign of my age. I just. don't. get. it. The appeal of Bieber does not resonate with me. Plus I'm LOL'ing that they sat the kid in front of a piano to make him look all serious and artsy.....and once he stood up to do his "thang" the piano kept playing. FAIL.

- I'm going to spoil a bit of Dexter for you folks....I think 5 days is sufficient buffer. How AWESOME was Dexter beating up the stepdad of Astor's friend!?! I wanted to yell at the TV "GO DEXTER GO!"......so cool. I love it when he loses his mind and goes all crazy. It's good TV.

- Took Betty to the mall a bit early this week to get her Santa shot ($25 for a bad pop-up flash snap of the kiddo.....really?). She told Mall Santa she wanted a puppy and the new baby wanted diapers.

- Speaking of holiday shopping, I'm trying to get it all done before I get too huge to want to move. And I'm getting there, believe me!

I did get my grandparent's high school yearbook in the mail the other day, which thrills me to no end because I searched for it for a number of years. I'm excited to give it to Gramps.

- I have one session left before maternity leave...and its tomorrow morning. I am taking a few more client consult meetings, but that's the extent of it. I'm pooped, and I cannot wait for this pregnancy to be over. Hopefully then I will be able to fit into my shoes and not have to keep hiking up my pregnancy jeans.

- Just watched a special on PBS the other night about the White House official photographer. What a COOL. JOB. It was really interesting to watch him work. They said at one point the amount of pictures the guy takes in a month (I don't recall the exact number, but it was over 10,000). Made me feel better about the amount I typically bring home from a wedding shoot!

What was even MORE interesting is the "official White House photo editor" (yes, this job exists) is NOT allowed to delete any of the shots. This I find fascinating. What if it's just terrible? What if Obama is making a funky face or he blinked? It all goes in the archive!

- I did NOT attend any Black Friday sales in person. I shopped from the comfort of my couch with the dulcet tones of Spongebob Squarepants wafting through the background. The only way to do it, if you ask me. Once the hubby returns from the road we'll hit up Toys R Us and finish off shopping for the Peanut and then we're done!

- Things are grinding to a halt on the work-front. I'm finishing off the last of the editing and album orders...getting everything out in the mail. Tomorrow is my last sitting until January (the famously camera-shy Lauren! We're planning a sneak attack at the library)...I have 3 prospective client meetings and then it's nothing but relax and enjoy.

And here's your moment-o-Betty Turkey Day Style:

We woke up SUPER early on T-giving day...and I actually got to watch the parade which has never happened before. Betty was quite taken with the Rockette's. And the outfit? Well, that's what happens when Mama is just far too tired to care if her kid's pajamas match.

We finally got to spend Turkey Day with Jon. Every year he is away in Chicago for the holiday for work, and he's missed 5 Thanksgivings. We ate at Fulton's on the River in Chicago and it was really really good.

I'd like to title this picture "Fatty and the Cheeser". I think pregnancy has caught up with me. Holy puffy-ness!

Betty playing @ Fulton's. I picked up that stellar outfit the night before @ Target. Betty's take? "It's weird and it doesn't match". She didn't seem to mind once it was on.

"Knight" Before Thanksgiving | Beloit Family Photographer

2010-11-24T14:52:00.007-06:00

Ok, so it's a cheesy title...I'm allowed a bit of cheesiness sometimes!

I met with the Knight family at Beloit College today...and we struck out in the freezing weather (was it NOT 66-some degrees just 2 days ago?!) to get some fun family shots.

I've done sittings with Maurion and his wife Kami (and their little one Nolia) a few times and this time we got Maurion's whole family together. And they are naturals, let me tell ya....some people just KNOW what to do when a camera is on them. I am not one of those people...but the camera loves this whole family. Makes my job easy!

We made a stop by the family's church for a quick outfit change and some more shots as well. I hope you guys have a great Thanksgiving and enjoy your sneak peek!

Work it out, Maurion. Work. It. OUT.

All I have to say is, what did I do before OCF? Solves all sorts of funky lighting issues. Like dark ceilings with no bounce-ability.

Locations: Beloit College

Lighthouse Fellowship Church

Thankful 2010 | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-11-23T10:27:00.005-06:00

Thanks for the memory

Of sentimental verse, nothing in my purse

And chuckles when the preacher said "For better or for worse"

How lovely it was

- Bob Hope

Thanksgiving is upon us...and with it comes the kick-off of the holiday season. I'm thankful for that in and of itself...it means Second Shooter will be here soon and I can stop being so darned uncomfortable. Yes, I'm whining.

So, as a bit of a reflection this week...here is what I'm thankful for in 2010....(of course, this list could be incredibly long, so I've condensed to the truly important).

A Healthy Pregnancy....and Here's Hoping a Quick and Painless Birth!

Hey, I can dream....right? Thus far this pregnancy has been pretty good. Not TOO terrible...although I'm not really a big fan of being pregnant in general. I feel very out of sorts...like I'm lugging around a bowling ball under my shirt that I can't put down. Here I am at 35 weeks 6 days (otherwise known as this morning). 29 days to go! THANK GOODNESS!

The Rugrat

I really do have the coolest kid ever. I know, I'm mom...therefore I'm biased....but if she isn't the cutest thing on Earth to me......even when she's being straight-up evil. Three years old is a challenging age...but I'm thankful my kid is who she is....independent, adorable, and listens most of the time.... : )

The Memories

It's been 2 years....and it still stings. It really does...but a little less every day. I'm thankful I have so many fabulous memories....so many captured on film/digital image....and so many stories to tell my kids. She is the reason I am the woman I am today....and I learned so much from her. I'm so thankful I had her....and I'd rather go through the pain of losing her than to have never had her in my life at all.

The Fam

I really do have the best family. My husband is awesome...my kid is awesome...I'm sure this next kid will probably be pretty awesome. I'm thankful every day that I have such a supportive group of people surrounding me. My hubby...my inlaws....I am a lucky, lucky gal. I hope they know how much I appreciate them and everything they do.

Best Job Ever

I really do have the best job ever. I just wrapped my third season and I still marvel all the time at how lucky I am to do what I do for a living....full time. I had some really amazing clients this year and I connected with some people from the community who have really helped me appreciate our craft and grow in leaps and bounds. I'm really looking forward to 2011 and all the fun it's going to bring. (I am not, however, thankful for that coat. I know I've mentioned it before but what the heck was I thinking?)

Girly Crushes

I am thankful for Jim Adkins. Because every girl needs a famous person to get all school-girly and crushy about. And he's mine. : ) (Photo by Joel Meine)

Oh What Fun It Is To Ride | Beloit Family Photographer

2010-11-21T17:18:00.003-06:00

Today I had the pleasure of capturing a holiday party thrown by one of the nurses for the hospice program that hosts my Kindred Spirits Hospice Photography program. It was a joyous gathering with friends and family, good food, and carriage rides.

The weather even held out a bit, despite a bit of a mist, allowing the party-goers to take tours around the block with the horse and carriage.

This sitting kind of kicks off the holiday parties for me, and marks the beginning of the last of my sittings before maternity leave. I have to thank Eve for inviting me out to capture this gathering. I had a great time!

Enjoy the sneak peek,and to the folks over at Hospice...thank you for all you do!

Little touches. Eve offered carriage rides in exchange for canned goods for charity.

Eve, showing the festive mood of the day : )

Kentucky Derby hats : )

Location: Private Home

I'll Tumble For Ya | Milwaukee Family Photographer

2010-11-20T17:16:00.004-06:00

I'll tumble for ya, I'll tumble for you

- Culture Club

So, there are a few things that go hand in hand with having an infant: drool, babble, and bumps on the head. It's bound to happen....but let me just put it on record that I'm not much a fan of it happening during my photo sessions!

Poor little Cole got his first good noggin bump during our sitting today when he took a bit of a spill off of the window seat we had perched him on......scaring the bejebus out of me (and I'm sure his parents) in the process!

Thankfully after some ice and cuddles he was fine and good to go....save for a bit of a bruise on his melon, a keepsake from the sitting!

The rest of the sitting went off without a hitch. We hit up Lake Park for a bit, braving the cold and getting some good outdoor shots for the family.

I hope Cole is recovering well, and I hope you enjoy the sneak peek Fuchs Family! : ) Next time I promise...no window seats!

Locations: Private Home

Lake Park Milwaukee, WI

Friday Fractured Thought | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-11-19T08:48:00.003-06:00

It's Friday.....you ain't got no job........

Ok, totally not true. November is shaping up to be JUST as busy as October was, surprisingly...with holiday and album orders up the wazoo and the last few sittings before our family of 3 becomes a family of 4 (scary!).

So, on with the Fractured Thoughts...and then its time to get some work done!

- Last night I had the supreme pleasure of networking with some Milwaukee Collages CLASS members. The Collages CLASS meetings are a chance for professional photographers to get together, talk shop, trade stories and ideas, etc. I've been attending the Madison area meetings since June and it's just a fabulous way to have your finger on the pulse of the photography community in Wisconsin.

- I bought Second Shooter her first vintage dress on Etsy this week....a little pink frock with a matching jacket. Can't wait to see it on her.

- My kid came down with her first illness since she was 1 year old this week. No joke, the kid is NEVER sick...ever...and its a good thing, because I told her this week that she was so crabby and out-of-sorts that I was going to sell her to Gypsies. I meant it too. She would be born in the wagon of a travelin' show if she kept it up. Man oh man. Good thing the cold is going away.....

- The hubster and I hit up Menards and got some holiday decor last weekend. It's a new experience for us living in a neighborhood where people actually go all out and decorate, not fearing that all of their decorations will be stolen overnight. I have a feeling competition in the 'hood is going to be fierce.

- Has anyone had a chance to check out the show Downsized on WE? I was actually kind of jazzed for this show, having a penchant for shows about budgeting and saving money (yes, I'm a dork...we've established that). But holy moly...these people are MORONS. Yes, I said it. They're MORONS. This chick waltzed up into a meeting with a financial advisor about their abysmal finances sportin' Chanel earrings. I wanted to throw something at the TV (or shoot it...because apparently in Wisconsin that is how we roll when something on TV doesn't thrill us).

Here's a thought, Downsized family. SELL THE CHANEL EARRINGS. It would be a start.

- I did my first "Trash the Dress" session (Encore session, Fearless Bride Session....etc. People have different names for these) on Sunday. It was COOOOLLLD, but it was a BLAST and I really really want to do more of these, so after January 22nd hit me up and let's plan to get some dresses dir-tay.

- Since 2008 I have been periodically looking online for my grandparent's high school yearbook. They both graduated in 1941 from Austin High School in Chicago, which doesn't really "exist" anymore (well, it does...but it's apparently a completely different type of school). I had no luck, at all, but have...in the process...amassed a small collection of old yearbooks.

Well, this week I found 1 on Ebay that could be promising (its 1942, but they did 1/2 years back then...so some 1941 students could be in it) and THEN I get an email this morning from a woman in Chicago who HAS the 1941 book. I am SOOOO excited! It's kismet, seriously. Right before the holidays. Now, crossing my fingers they are in the book.

- I bit the bullet a tiny bit and added a D700 and grip to my Adorama cart this week. Not lets see how long it takes for me to hit "buy".

- I got a MASSIVE amount of album deliveries this week and I have to give major props to Miller's once again for their fine service and turn-around. Love my lab.

- I started weekly doctor visits this week! EEEEEEKKKKKKKK.

- The other day I had an entire day of sitting on my bootay watching TV and eating. I haven't done that in a really really really long time and although it felt really naughty and not overly productive, I needed it.

- Ok, a little PSA before I get to your weekly moment o' Betty. This week I got a nice email from the photo manager of a store letting me know that someone had grabbed pictures off this here blog and was attempting to have them printed.

First off, I am SUPER impressed by this photo manager. Because the pictures had my watermark on them, she knew they were copyrighted and found my email address to alert me. This was very cool on her part.

Second, don't try this at home, folks. For one, it's stealing. This is why I give personal reprint rights to my clients who buy the DVD (or all wedding clients) because I do think it is important to have access to your pictures. You can also legally buy or download the pictures you'd like from Smugmug.

For two, the pictures on my blog are teeny weeny resolution. Very small. They are resized to fit here and they have my watermark on them. If you were to print these, they would not look good.

So, as a heads up, if you're wanting a copy of a picture from an event or sitting and you are not the subject of the picture, hit me up on email and I can let you know the best way to go about getting quality prints and products.

- This week? Things are not really slowing down too much. I have a family sitting tomorrow (a do-over from last week's rain-out), a Hospice event on Sunday to photograph (with carriage rides, how fun!), and a family sitting next week before I head to Chicago to celebrate Thanksgiving with my hubby for the first time in SIX YEARS. Yup, we're mixing it up a bit this holiday. Every Thanksgiving my husband is gone working the biggest trade show of the year for his company, and he misses all the fun. So, this year we're joining him. Can't wait!

And here is your moment o' Betty...I took her Christmas card pic this week, despite her stuffy, red nose. We decided to throw in my vintage Anne book and make it kind of a "theme-y". Enjoy!

Little Darlin's and Little Brothers | Racine Family Photographer

2010-11-18T15:05:00.005-06:00

Go back to sleep now

My darlin

And I'll keep all the bad dreams away

Breathe now, think sweet things

And I'll think of all the right words to say

Because we made you

My darlin

With the love in each of our hearts

We were a family, my darlin

Right from the start

- Wilco

I've done numerous sittings with this family, and their little girl Olivia was one of my first newborn sittings ever. Time certainly does have a way of flying by...and Olivia has just welcomed baby brother (or as Betty would say, "brudder") Everitt into the family.

I drove out to Union Grove today to meet week old Everitt and snap some pictures. He hung in there like a champ once we got him cozy. Olivia was a bit camera-shy today, but we still managed to bribe her with some Mickey Mouse and Marshmallows (which I endorse as bribe-food because of the low-mess factor).

It was a pleasure, and I can't wait to see Everitt grow just like Olivia has! Enjoy the sneak peek!

Good things....small packages....you know the saying....

Is there anything better than fuzzy little baby heads?

Mouth full o' Marshmallow...that's okay! Whatever works!

Location: Private home

Waitin' For Somebody | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-11-16T08:53:00.005-06:00

I'm waitin' for the day

Waitin' for the day

That you'd come my way

- Paul Westerberg

T-minus 36 days until my due date...which based on the last time I did this probably about 30 days or so before Second Shooter joins our family. I came to the realization earlier last week that I wasn't really READY yet (or at least didn't FEEL ready yet). I've been so busy, and admittedly a little distracted from the pregnancy stuff, that I haven't given this go-around the same attention and obsession that my pregnancy with Betty received.

I'm thinking this is probably normal with #2....you're less freaked out, less stressed about "what do I do?!?!"....Plus, last time I was pregnant I had the most boring day-job known to man, so I had little else to do but sit and obsess (and eat.....). This time I've had the busiest November I can remember in a long time (awesome!) and it's kept my mind occupied.

So now that things are slowing down, I'm realizing I better get on it and get ready. Thank goodness for my mother in law who has taken the reigns a bit in getting Second Shooter's room ready (and to hubby and father-in-law for putting together the crib). So, I thought I'd give a bit of a sneak peek to Second Shooter's room in progress....and hopefully the next month goes by fast, and without a hitch!

EEK!

Ok, now it's a well known fact I am far from being a clothes horse when it comes to my own wardrobe. But, I have a weakness for baby outfits.....especially little baby girl outfits. Because Betty and Second Shooter were opposite seasons, most of what I had saved from Betty wasn't going to work with a winter baby. So...oh dear, that meant I had to go shopping. And shopping I went.......

A smattering of socks that some very generous and wonderful local photogs got for Second Shooter. Lots of fun!

I had forgotten how incredibly tiny the newborn diapers are. They are insanely small. The fact that they ever fit Betty just baffles me.

Oh yeah...you know it. Representin' 1991.

Hint ! Hint ! .....a few clients have been privy to the name we picked out...so let's keep those lips sealed, ladies! I have one more month to drive my mother-in-law nuts!

Dirty Dress | Milwaukee Trash the Dress Photography

2010-11-14T18:18:00.003-06:00

Where do you intend

To go with dirty dress?

- Jimmy Eat World

There are many ways to "trash a dress"....or interpret a "Trash the Dress" session. The level of "trashed" can vary, from a little dirty and dusty to lighting the thing on fire.

I fall somewhere in the "little dirty and dusty" area. What is so great about "Trash the Dress" sessions is I don't have to feel bad about asking the bride to plop down on a dirty downtown alley ground. It's the point of the shoot, so I go for it. And a fearless (and very brave) bride like Liz is just what completes an excelled "TTD" session.

Today was a challenge for one big reason: It was stinkin' cold. Cold and WINDY. Liz didn't feel too sorry for me, I was wearing a coat...2 sweatshirts...and carrying around an extra human being so I was relatively warm. Poor freezing Liz worked it out though, and rocked her session.

I'm super excited about these images and can't wait to get to editing! Enjoy the sneak peek!

This shot reminds me of Drew Barrymore in Firestarter

Locations: Beach along Lincoln Memorial Drive Milwaukee, WI

Third Ward Milwaukee, WI

Extra special thank you to Liz's friend Amanda for helping us out today, you were a stellar dress mover/driver/light holder : )

Issue Free | Racine Family Photographer

2010-11-14T17:42:00.003-06:00

I used to say, "I", And "Me"

Now it's "Us", Now it's "We"

- Michael Jackson

Last time I met with little Ben and his family, his latest learned word was "issues"....and he was certainly having some issues with the lady who wanted to take his picture (read: me).

This time was relatively issue free....and we caught some great little "Ben" faces. Maybe it was the comfort of his living room that let him chill out and invite me to be all up in his face with my equipment, who knows.

Ben is going to have a little brother later this winter, which is exciting...so we snuck in some maternity shots along with the family session this morning.

It was a pleasure and hope to see you again in a few months when the new one comes along! Enjoy the sneak peek!

We indulged Ben's dad here a bit with a shot in his "hunting room".....I'm always a sucker for a "theme" shot

Location: Private family home

Friday Fractured Thought | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-11-12T12:25:00.003-06:00

Could it possibly be?! Is the end of the year in sight? Yes! And with wedding season "officially" over, I'm feeling a bit out of sorts. I don't quite know what to do with myself. Luckily, album orders have been the name of the game this week, so I've been busy regardless of having no weddings in the next month or so.

Which leads me to.....

- Albums! I need to put together a full album blog post showing all the great features of the new album selections, I think. I've been blown away by the album orders this past week...super-excited! Albums are the BEST way to show off your pictures, and its my humble opinion that everyone should have one.

- SmugMug Sale: STILL going on, but ends on Monday...so if you want to order prints, canvas wraps, thin wraps, or any print product from your event or sitting, waiting will do you no good! Save 25% with the coupon code SEASONEND10 and let me know if you need your sitting/event loaded onto Smugmug to take advantage.

- On one more "business" related note, I'm about 1/2 booked for 2011 and already moving into 2012 bookings, so if you have a wedding coming up for 2011 or 2012, again...waiting is not the way to go!

- The Peanut has been struck down with her first cold since she was 1 year old. Poor thing...she's taking it like a champ though.

- This Thursday the Collages CLASS groups from Madison and Milwaukee are coming together to meet. It's going to be epic. That's a lot of fun and talent in one area. The restaurant may explode from the awesome-ness contained inside.

- I don't even want to think about Christmas shopping right now. It just seems like a massive undertaking at this point. So, TV can knock it off with the pre-Thanksgiving Christmas shopping commercials any time now.

- I did order Betty's new Etsy frock for her Christmas pictures though, so hopefully I'll get those done soon.

- I had one of those parenting moments the other day....Betty was asking about the baby coming at Christmas and I said "Yes, the baby will be here at Christmas" and she asks "So how are they gonna get it out of there?"

I'm guessing "Magic" probably wasn't the best response.

- Can I complain a TINY bit about companies/websites/whatever making changes for the sake of changes that benefit NO ONE. For one, Facebook. First, they take away the "View Comments" button for fan pages, which is just pointless and stupid. THEN, they make the type on the walls teeny weeny tiny. Why? Just because they can.

And Smugmug....with the new uploading options. Are you serious? I've never seen anything more inefficient. And I really don't like going to load a wedding and having it die 1/2 way through. Just sayin'. Sometimes, leaving well-enough alone is preferred.

- I had to do my first "1 date, 2 clients" turn-away this week. It always sucks. I know most photographers have a "first who pays gets the date" policy, as do I...but I really hate to disappoint anyone. There are just not enough dates in some prime months....and I am a people-pleaser. I want to take all of their weddings. It's kind of a bummer part of this job. Thankgoodness for a great referral list....so I can pass those along to people I know will rock it out. Another plug for creating community among photog-friends!

- This week is shaping up to be another one full of holiday order fulfillment, album building, and the like. I have a family sitting tomorrow, one Sunday, and a fun "Trash the Dress" on Sunday as well. But, I am knocking out the holiday orders in between shooting, so get those album gift orders in ASAP, folks!

And now, your moment-o-Betty. We decided to play Betty's version of "hopscotch" in the foyer yesterday. All went well until she had a meltdown when she believed I had stolen her "rock" (which was invisible....so...yeah, she had no proof!)

And I'll leave you this week with evidence of how very very cool my husband an I are. Working the last wedding of the season and deciding to hop into the photobooth for a little fun.

What It's Like Having Two | Milwaukee Family Photographer

2010-11-07T15:48:00.009-06:00

I've found myself paying closer attention when I have sittings with families that have two kids (especially two girls) because it's starting to become very clear that in a little over a month I will be joining their ranks....and it's a thought that, frankly, scares me a bit. What is it LIKE having two?!?!

I've done several sittings with Stephanie, Jarrott, and their two girls Kennedy and Reagan. It's so neat to watch them reach new milestones (Reagan is walking like a champ!...ok, a wobbly champ...but a champ nonetheless).

Today we hit up the Audubon Center in Milwaukee and I took the chance to observe and ask a few questions about exactly what it's like having two. One of these days someone is going to say "Oh, it's SUPER easy!!! Really! Piece of cake!" I swear. I'm waiting for it. What I learned today is hugging and choking your sister may be about the same thing to a toddler and your sense of awareness must be sharpened....because once one sits down and cooperates with the task at hand...the other is off and running.

Eeek!

Thanks for the quick lesson in "having two" today, ladies. Enjoy the sneak peek, it was great to see everyone!

I super-LOVE this picture. Big time.

Little girls in Mary Janes. Is there anything sweeter?

Location: Schlitz Audubon Center Milwaukee, WI

When the Dance is Through | Chicago Wedding Photographer

2010-11-07T09:18:00.007-06:00

All the best DJ's are saving

the slowest song for last

When the dance is through

It's me and you

-Jimmy Eat World

Andrea and Derek's Chi-town wedding marked the end of a busy and fabulous 2010 Wedding season for Type A Images. It was the perfect send off for 2010 with new places to shoot and a great group of people as subjects.

Andrea and Derek live just a stone's throw away from Wrigley...I cannot IMAGINE how nuts their neighborhood gets during a ball game. So, after their ceremony at St. Mary's of the Lake in Chicago it was an absolute must to quickly hit up Wrigley Field. Now, I am not a Cub fan....need to make that PERFECTLY clear here...the Brewers are my home team and I have my loyalties....but I have to admit the "Chicago-centric" nature of Wrigley is just really neat to use as a back-drop. So much history there (but we still have a roof that opens and closes....so we win).

From Wrigley we headed to Millennium Park. I've never been to this notable area either...and it was a photographer's dream, let me tell you (evidenced by the OTHER wedding photographers there vying for spots). It was PACKED....and on the way in the bustling downtown traffic we even made time to be involved in a hit-and-run accident. Through no fault of our bus driver, mind you. This dude hit US.....and then proceeded to take off and run a red light. So, Chicago people, if you see a red Volvo with scrapes down the side and front-end damage....that just may be our guy : )

Andrea and Derek's reception was held at the Dank Haus ...and I was really excited to find that Kristin from Toast & Jam was DJ'ing...they are one of my favorite DJ groups and Kristin had previous worked with me at Mysi and Craig's wedding from 2009...so it was nice to see her again!

The night was full of fun, fabulous music, and some massively cool dancing. I'm so glad such a fun group helped me close out a great season. Thank you Andrea and Derek! I hope you had an amazing night and enjoy your sneak peek!!

Andrea is a girl after my own heart....Chucks are the best shoes ever. In fact, I'm toying with the idea of wearing Chucks to weddings all next season and just making it my "thing" : )

Look at that smile......

I have never seen anyone use vinyl records as a guest book, and it's one of those ideas that you see and say to yourself "Ohhh...I wish I would have thought of that!!!" Very cool.

This completely cracked me up..... :) Who knew the Pope made a record?

Now, you know those kind of movies where there is a dance scene and people dancing just seem to instinctively KNOW the dance everyone is doing....and suddenly it's a "dance number". I've always watched those scenes and said "Uh...yeah! right! Like they all KNEW the dance...."

Ok, these two....they KNEW the dance....it was awesome...they had their own choreographed dance routine. Awesome-ness.

Ceremony: St. Mary's of the Lake Chicago, IL

Reception: Dank Haus Chicago, IL

Hair: Salon Slice Chicago, IL

Makeup: Rock Candy Stylist Chicago

DJ: Toast & Jam

Photobooth: Magnolia Photo Booth

Friday Fractured Thought | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-11-04T23:21:00.003-05:00

It's Friday...you know what THAT means.....(besides, oh...I dunno....Four Weddings is on tonight, which is, like, the greatest wedding show ever.....)

Other noteworthy new nuggets:

- Our first Halloween in the new 'hood went off without a hitch....well, except for that whole "your neighborhood is the place to be!" hitch, which forced us to make a last-minute candy replenishment run to Shopko. Who knew? We couldn't PAY kids to hit up our house in Milwaukee!

- The Peanut's first Trick or Treating experience was fabulous. She LOVED it....she was all about getting right in there with the big kids and demanding her candy. She only wanted to stop at houses that had decorations, which was kind of a funny. The best part? Betty isn't much for candy, so I've been able to raid her bucket guilt-free all week.

- On the subject of Halloween, maybe it's just the mom in me...or maybe I'm just a gigantic out-of-touch prude...but there were some costumes the neighborhood gals were sporting that my daughter would not be caught DEAD in at their age. Seriously...your 12 year old does not need to be a "sexy cat" for Halloween. She's 12. Also, all the kids over the age of, say, 8 were Trick or Treating WITH cellphones...and seemed to do more texting than Trick or Treating. Sad state of affairs.

And yes, I sound old and crabby. I know this.

- This has been a challenging week, for a number of reasons for sure. I'm a lot busier than I had anticipated for a November (good thing!) but I'm starting to get sluggish...and tired...and I'm looking at a fairly un-ready baby room and feeling a tad overwhelmed.

So, when I made a visit to my "local" camera store (local being Rockford) I was vulnerable....I think the sales guy knew I needed to acquire SOME sort of equipment to ease my somewhat irksome week.

I went in for an umbrella and light stand

I came out with a new lens.

Ugh...dangerous stuff, those camera stores.

- I'll be taking my new lens buddy out for a run this Saturday at the season's LAST WEDDING. Insert big-eyed "I can't believe it" stare here, because whew!! What a season! 32 weddings...countless awesome families...and having to hear the Black Eyed Peas "I Gotta Feelin'" more times then I can really recall or ever count. I've eaten my weight in awesome cake and can probably do the Cupid Shuffle in my sleep by this time.

I'll be back at it in January but I am looking forward to some slow, laid-back Saturdays coming up.

- Just a reminder, I'm still running a sale on SmugMug purchases (any purchase off the SmugMug site). 25% off with the coupon code SEASONEND10. This sale ends November 15th, so get those Christmas orders in quickly to take advantage of it!

- Speaking of the holidays and orders, if you are going to be wanting your album by Christmas, it is very important that you get your picture selections in by November 15th at the absolute LATEST. I beg of you! I'm working diligently to get all albums designed and off to the printers in time for holiday delivery!

- On another holiday note....Gift Certificates make AWESOME stocking stuffers, so contact me about ordering a Gift Certificate for your family or friends. They can be purchased in any amount.

- I was getting a bit concerned about Dexter. I adore this shore...LOVE it....but it had not been really holding my interest much thus far this season. However, last Sunday's episode RAWKED. Very cool. Keep it up, Dexter!

- I just did a sitting last night doing portraits for Beloit's Finest (the BPD). I tried to get them to agree to write off the two speeding tickets I got in August. No dice. : )

- The Mini-Sessions went great and we got some awesome shots out of the day (even though it was cold....and a football game was going on). I may reconsider the late fall date if I decide to bring out the Mini next year.

- 16 and Pregnant is BACK! Awesome-sauce, seriously. Could this show be any more entertaining? Babies named Genesis.....16 year olds getting married in racing uniforms....it's just good watchin'.

- I'm going to be unloading some camera equipment this week that I just don't use (a few lenses....etc) so stay tuned. If anyone is REALLY into the color pink and needs a fashion camera bag for 1 camera, boy do I have the bag for you........keep tabs on Facebook for sales : )

- Up this week: Shopping for the baby room with my mother-in-law tomorrow.....the last wedding on Saturday in Chicago...fun filled family session on Sunday in Milwaukee, two bridal consults this week....whew-wee!!! Who said it was slow season?

And now, your moment-of-Betty....

Trick or Treat!!! For the first time! She was quite into it.

Patiently waiting.

Shooting huge. Last week's wedding. Sad the only time I have to take "belly pics" is when I'm working and find a good mirror! LOL

This, my friends, is BIG NEWS. Betty.....eating FRUIT. Now, if you don't know my kid let me fill you it. She eats one thing: macaroni and cheese. That's about it. The kid is pickier than all get-out. So, my dear mother-in-law actually got this kid to EAT. AN. APPLE. As you can see, she documented the moment for proof. I was STUNNED. Stunned, I tell ya!! (Picture courtesy of Mother-in-Law)

Hey! Portrait Clients.....Cmere! | Milwaukee Family Photographer

2010-11-02T11:43:00.011-05:00

It's been another great summer season chock full of family portrait sittings. I've met some super-duper families and I cannot WAIT until next season when it starts all over again. It really made me think about making things as stress-free and easy for clients next year. A lot of clients may be "first-timers" to the on-location photography experience....or the professional photography experience. Some may only have their run around with Walmart Portrait Studio (SHUDDER) to go by.

So.....for this week's photography related blog, I thought I'd go over some simple "guidelines" for getting the best out of your portrait sitting with Type A Images (or anyone else, for that matter....though I am super fun and I highly recommend me).

I have to thank Betty Claire for providing the "example" pictures here. She's my model-of-many-example-poses.

1. Dress for the Weather.

Wisconsin weather is highly unpredictable (and sometimes downright cruddy). So, even if you envision a portrait of your little one frolicking through the meadows in nothing more than a tutu and tank top, if it's 40 degrees....I really don't recommend it. Because hypothermia does not make for good frolicking.

Dress smart....you can look cute and still be comfy and warm (or cool).

Modeling the latest in snow-suit fashion

2. If You're Sick....Stay Away From Me!

I know that when you schedule a sitting...it can be hard to wait. The excitement is tangible! I understand, believe me. Photo sittings are super-fun! : )

But, if you are struck down with plague-like symptoms, please reschedule. A sick baby/kid is not a happy baby/kid...and Photoshop can't cure the common cold.

3. Bring Kleenex

Kleenex is a wonderful tool....especially in any job where kids are involved. There's snot. There's boogies. There's food leftover from breakfast.

So, come prepared. Bonus points if you actually bring baby wipes, for those more stubborn snot issues.

See Guideline #2 regarding what to do if the snot cannot be contained by Kleenex alone. : )

This is only cute at birthdays.

4. Be On Time...and ALLOW Enough Time!

A rushed kid is an unhappy kid. And a photographer who has to wait is...well...an unhappy photographer. Be on time for your sitting and allow enough time to get a nice, relaxed session.

5. Let It Be.

I cannot stress this ENOUGH....you have to just let your kid be and let them do their thing during these sessions. The more you urge them to "smile this way" or "pose that way" or "fix your hair" or....whatever...the more uncomfortable your kid is going to look. When I shoot, I'm looking for a natural, relaxed look to the image. Not a forced smile, and not absolute perfection. Because, let's face it...they're kids!

So, if your photographer is stepping in to give gentle direction, let them go for it. Stand back and let the shooter do their job. Try to resist the urge to "Stage Mom" the bejesus out of the shoot : )

I know its hard......

Believe me! I'm the worst....I can tend to go all Joan Crawford on Betty if I'm looking for a certain reaction....but even with my kid (who, let's face it, is totally used to the camera by now) resists the direction. The more I tell her "do this!" the more she does something else.

What happens when I say "Smile!" to Betty. This is why we should try to not direct our own kids.

6. Food is NOT a Good Bribe

This kind of goes along with the whole Kleenex thing. Unless it's something super-not-messy (like...I dunno...water. Or carrot sticks...but who are we kidding?), using food to bribe your kid into behaving can really backfire.....in the form of food all over the face and a gigantic mess and more stress for the parents. Which then leads to complete photo-session meltdown.

If you must bribe, bring cash : )

Spaghetti. NOT a good bribe.

7. Avoid Nap Time.

Tired kids (much like over-directed kids or kids covered in goo) are unhappy kids.

Work with your photographer to schedule a time where your kids will be well rested and fed. Now, if its a newborn session...typically asleep IS preferred. Talk to your photographer about what is best.

Kid with no nap = bad portrait.

8. Don't Bring Your Own Camera.

This one always kind of surprises me. You hired a photographer to take your picture, I'm hoping you did so because you love their work and want that look for your pictures. So, why are you toting along your own P&S to document someone else taking pictures? Not to mention the copyright issues that could be attached...but that's a story for another blog (that I think I already did!)

Bringing your own camera to portrait sessions is not cool. Save it for home. Let the professional you hired work solo : )

(Unless, of course, you're Betty Claire Photography and you do whatever you please! Right Andrea? Andrea from Andrea Paradowski Photography was totally "Uncle Bobbed" by Betty at our family photo session. So, looks like my kid needs to learn to practice what her mommy preaches!)

My kid: There's Momtographers....are there such things as Toddlertographers?

9. Just Be Yourself.

I've talked about this before with regards to weddings ...but if you're trying to pull off something that just isn't you, it's probably not going to work too well. If your little girl is a rough and tumble tomboy and you want a portrait of her being a delicate English Rose.....she's probably going to either fight it, or not perform to "satisfaction"...producing less than stellar results. If you just let them do their thing and be "them" (and you do the same), the pictures will be relaxed....natural...and probably more fun for everyone involved.

Betty is who she is. Cowboy Hat and all.

What's most important to remember is commissioning a professional photographer to do studio or on-location portraits for you is very different than toting the kids in their Packers finest for a quick snap with the teenager at the mall. Professionals want the best out of your session, and they are willing to put the time, talent, and effort into getting the best results.

To help them along, follow the simple guidelines and when in doubt, ask for guidance from your chosen shooter. I'm sure they will be happy to fill you in on how to get the best from your session.

Just Not Havin' It | Beloit Family Photographer

2010-10-31T15:54:00.003-05:00

Now, being in the profession I am...I'm pretty much used to kids wanting nothing to do with me. I am simply this lady with a big camera wanting them to "perform" to my satisfaction to get the best shots possible.

However, its usually a bit different when the kids "know" me....like Madelyn and Avery. Now, granted, Avery is only 1...so she gets a pass. Her short-term memory probably isn't fully developed. So, she was having none of it today. Family member or not, her outlook on the day was "Forget you lady...I'm taking off....just TRY to get a shot off....MUHAHAHAHA!"

At least, that's what she probably would have said. You know...if she could talk and stuff.

Regardless of Avery's outlook on the situation, we managed to get some great shots for Matt, Beth, and the girls. Enjoy!

Don't let the smile fool you. Avery was plotting my demise.

You don't want to know.

Mini Sessions 2010 | Beloit Family Photographer

2010-10-31T15:21:00.006-05:00

Today I held some Holiday/Halloween Mini-Sessions @ Sweet Allyn Park in Shopiere, WI. I think if I decide to do these again next year I may put some more thought into time chosen (as in...not during a football game!) and date (it was a TAD chilly!)...but I had some real troopers come out for some mini-fun!

Enjoy the sneak peek, great to see everyone!

Location: Sweet Allyn Park Shopiere, WI

All 4 Love | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-10-31T13:26:00.008-05:00

I'm so glad you're my girl

I'll do anything 4 U

Call U evry night

And give U flowers 2

I thank the Lord 4 U

And think about U all the time

I ask him everyday

That you'll 4-ever B mine

- Color Me Badd

I had to use this Color Me Badd song, simply because the DJ's from Sound By Design played it at Katie and Tim's wedding last night. I hadn't heard it for probably a good 15 years...and now it's stuck in my head.+

Yesterday was a study in pop-culture references for Katie and Tim's Milwaukee wedding. The day kicked off with a beautiful full-Mass ceremony at the Church of the Gesu , which is one of my favorite Catholic churches in Milwaukee. Its just gorgeous.

We followed up the ceremony with a quick trip to the Art Museum, where the wind was kickin'....big time. We did get in one "must-take" shot, requested by the groomsmen, of a football play. This photographer knows so much about football than when I asked one of the guys to come in a bit closer, he looked at me and said "Uh...I can't. I'm the tight end!"

Shows how much I know!

We hit up the downtown area surrounding the reception location, The Grain Exchange, where the excellent ideas from the bridal party really took off. An homage to West Side Story was a must...as was a recreation of the fight/dance scene from Michael Jackson's "Beat It" (complete with sound effects compliments of the groomsmen). Gotta love a wedding party with ideas!

The reception was decorated to the hilt with gorgeous flower arrangements mixed in with pumpkins and cupcakes topped with bats....a bit of a nod to the weekend festivities. The speeches were especially note-worthy...as both the Matron of Honor and the Best Man decided to do visual aids with their toasts....the comparison between the groom and Golom was a highlight, for sure!

It was a wonderful evening, and Katie and Tim were surrounded by supportive, loving family and friends. It was also my 2nd to last wedding of the season...a season that went FAR too quickly!

I hope you enjoy your sneak peek! I had a blast with your group yesterday!

Church of the Gesu. Absolutely STUNNING.

This little guy decided to take a bit of a stroll during Communion

SHARKS!! JETS!!!

"Showin' how funky strong is your fight"

Direction from the groomsmen: "You've just been given a puppy!" ....um...okay!

Ceremony: Church of the Gesu Milwaukee, WI

Reception: Grain Exchange Milwaukee, WI

DJ: Sound by Design

Catering: Bartolotta

Audubon Babies | Milwaukee Family Photographer

2010-10-29T18:58:00.005-05:00

I absolutely love shooting at the Schlitz Audubon Nature Center in Milwaukee. Especially later in the day when there is just something about the light hitting the tall grass and various plants that is just so gorgeous. Stick a family or a few cute kids among the beauty and you have instant magic.

Today's subjects were no exception. I first met Kaitlyn and her family when I photographed her sister's wedding in 2009. She and her husband Jason just recently added baby Gavin to their family. Older son Quinnlan is just a NATURAL, in every sense of the word. I remarked to Kaitlyn that he doesn't seem to have a "fake smile" in him....very sincere and adorable all the way. A joy to photograph.

I hope the family enjoys this little sneak peek, it was great seeing you again!

Baby Gavin

Location: Schlitz Audubon Nature Center Milwaukee, WI

Friday Fractured Thought | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-10-29T10:20:00.002-05:00

Another week down and I cannot BELIEVE it is starting to feel like late fall.....just. not. ready!

- Holy WIND STORM. Our house escaped unscathed. However, I did end up with recycling products all over my yard because of the inept garbage folks in Beloit Township. Recycling bin that they failed to pick up vs. wind storm of the century = BAD IDEA JEANS.

- The hubby and I decided to watch the show Modern Family from the pilot episode all the way to the current season. What a hilarious show! LOVE it...how did I miss this one? Gives me something to watch on Wednesdays too.

- I have two spots open for the mini-sessions this Sunday. Yes, I realize there is a Packer game on and asking folks in my neck of the woods to miss part of the game in favor of having their pictures taken is pretty much akin to being sacreligious, I'm hoping there's at least two families out there who care about football about as much as I do and will snatch up the last two spots.

- Woke up this morning and realized my daughter had drawn people all over our entertainment center with crayon. Thanks Betty.

- I've decided to bite the proverbial bullet and place an ad in the Wedding Planner and Guide (Madison edition). Keep a look out for it soon. : )

- So glad 16 and Pregnant is back on for another season. I love trainwrecks on TV. It's good watchin'.

- Speaking of TV....Really, Project Runway? REALLY? All I'm going to say is....yuck.

- We're finally kind of, sort of getting Second Shooter's room ready. I've also been going back and forth a bit on the name we've chosen for her. For one, I know several people with a dog named the same thing. Kind of makes me think "Is this a dog's name"? But, after going back over our lists again and again, it's still the name the hubby and I come back to. So, there's your hint, Internet. It can double as a dog's name.

And no. It's not Fluffy.

- Don't forget, Clients...I'm still running a 25% off Smugmug sale...so now is the time to get those holiday print and product orders in. Again, if your sitting or event happened prior to June 2010 and you'd like to take advantage of this sale, hit me up on email and I'll load your pictures for you.

- I have two weddings left for the season. I cannot believe how fast this season went....where did my summer go? Seriously. Tomorrow is Last Wedding #1 in Milwaukee and then my final wedding (making 32 for the season...eek!) is in Chicago. Hubby will be coming with me so I don't have to waddle AND carry bags....

- Bookings for 2011 are coming in....I have 11 booked already for next year and inquiries typically start to pick up right after Christmas (all those shiny new rocks). So, contact me ASAP if you have a 2011 date you're interested in....

- I am super excited for Halloween...I finally get to take Betty Trick-or-Treating...it will be her first time, so I'm going to be sure to snap a lot of pictures! The kid is not too big on candy, so bonus for pregnant mom!

- This weekend, in addition to the 2nd-to-last-wedding, I also have 2 family sittings and the Mini-Sessions. Hoping to get some rest next week, as sleep has been escaping me a bit lately.

Here's your small moment-'o-Betty.....playing with off-camera flash and the chunk of trees by our house.

Learning on the Job 2010 | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-10-26T11:13:00.004-05:00

With the season winding down and my thoughts turning towards maternity leave, the end of the year, and 2011...I thought it would be a good time to revisit a blog post from last year called "Learning on the Job". I'm still relatively new to this game and I always find it interesting to learn from others, see what they've picked up, and maybe share a few nuggets along the way.

So, here's what I've learned this year....and hope to carry on to 2011.

1. Shiny, Happy People Make My Job Easier.
I'm a bit of a people-pleaser. There is nothing that makes me happier than to hear that I did a good job for someone, that they loved what I did, or that they noticed that I went the extra mile. When my clients are happy, I'm happy. This has been a REALLY great season and my clients this year have been just tremendous. It thrills me to no end....and it makes me want to seek out new and different ways of bringing them a fabulous photography experience. In my old job, I came from a background of dealing with unhappy people all the time. Part of my job was to try and make them LESS unhappy....but it was an uphill battle that was hard to conquer (I worked in health insurance...it's really hard to make people happy when they feel like they're being taken advantage of).

But, now...I get to work with people on the happiest days of their lives...do you know how lucky that makes me? Do you know how fortunate we are to do what we do as wedding photographers. I try to remind myself of that when I'm knee deep in paperwork....or it's the middle of winter and I haven't shot a bride/groom/couple in weeks. We are lucky lucky folks. We shouldn't forget it. We participate in happiness. There is no better job on earth.
2. Stop and Smell the Roses. Or Just Take a Nap.

I have to be constantly reminded to slow down. If I had my druthers, I would be a total workaholic. However, that is a difficult row to hoe when you have kids...and a husband....and, you know, stuff to do outside of work.

I tried, this season, to really not be holed away in my office every night. Some nights this worked...and I got to catch up on my TV shows and spend some time with the hubby. Some nights it was a futile effort. Sometimes, work beckons...especially in the middle of a busy season. But, I have to give myself a bit of a high-five for staying relatively on top of things this summer....even with a big move to a new city and a pregnancy. Part of that making clients happy-vow is quick turnaround. I try to always keep that as my goal.

But, this year, I think I did do a better job of slowing down and taking a bit of time for myself and my family, and I hope to do an even better job of that next season.
3. Don't Fear the Reaper....or the OCF.

Off-camera Flash was my nightmare. I love the look....the drama it can bring to a scene/set-up...but the whole concept of TTL and triggers and what-not scared the living bejesus out of me, to be honest. I'm not a math person.....I'm not good with geometry (just as my high school teachers...I think I failed basic geometry three times).....I just don't think in angles and percentages.

This year...late in the season...I decided to give it a go....better late than never. And the concept is still new. But thanks to a few photo friends and the ease of use brought on by Scott Robert triggers I'm finally NOT as scared of OCF as I used to be. I'm hoping to really use it to my advantage in 2011.

The lesson? Do something that scares you....even if your first few attempts royally suck. New skills take time and patience to master....and patience is a concept that is new to me as well, sometimes!

One of my first OCF attempts EVER....

4. Silence the Inner Critic.

I am my own worst enemy at times. When I present a final product to a client, or even shoot for fun, I find myself being incredibly nit-picky. Its the perfectionist in me....and part of me has had to learn to kind of let that go.

For one, if I continued to be as nit-picky as I want to be I would never get anything done. I need to learn, big time, to ignore what other people are doing...the good and the bad....because it doesn't help further my work in the slightest. It's so easy to become preoccupied with how awesome someone else is...and it can easily make you feel pretty self-conscious.

I'm still working on telling that little voice inside to shut up and go away. It crops up every once in awhile.....but I know that I've done some work this season that I'm really proud of....and I have to remind myself that next year is a new chance to rock it out.

Picture courtesy of Betty Claire Photography

5. Don't Dress Like a Sad Clown.

I've been putting off my need for a new work wardrobe until after Second Shooter is born and I get my old pre-pregnancy size back (oh...it WILL happen....believe me!). Until then, I've been kind of making do....which has led to some..shall we say...interesting combinations.

One thing I learned at the WPPI Road Show this year is, in a sense, dress for the job you want. If one were to see some of my ridiculous get-ups...you would probably think my goal was to join the cast of Cirque du Soleil.

So, one of my biggest goals for 2011 is to stop dressing like a frumpy hobo clown. Because my luck is terrible, and the day I decide to just throw on the first hot-pink coat I can find that fits is the day that my husband decides to take pictures of me "in action".

Awesome.

In last year's post I lectured about shoes. Apparently taking my own advice wasn't in the cards because I went through about three pairs of shoes this summer alone and they were all cheap, cruddy shoes that left my feet in massive amounts of pain.

Come March I'm buying some decent flippin' shoes. Mark my words. Hold me to it, Internet.

Style. It eludes me.

Looking back, I think I'm right where I want to be with Type A this year. I had 32 weddings on the books this year (2 remain....can't believe the season passed so quickly!) and countless family sittings. I met some AWESOME clients and expanded my network around the Madison area....picking up some tremendously wonderful pals in the process. That is invaluable really. The community we have going around here for professionals is really amazing. I can't say enough good things about it.

With 2011 looming, I'm hopeful and feeling very positive about the good things that await. I'm taking on my first bridal show in February (something I've been putting off out of, again, fear mostly....)...and I'm looking to really do some great things with the branding and "look" of Type A during the slow season. So, keep an eye out for some fun updates and changes.

And...if anyone wants to call up Stacey London and Clinton Kelly and get me a new $5000 wardrobe....I'm all for it.... : )

Holiday/Winter Portrait Sittings | Milwaukee Family Photographer

2010-10-25T14:07:00.003-05:00

As you know, I'm getting rounder by the second and due to give birth on December 23rd. With Peanut I went into labor 3 days early (if this is just TMI.....I apologize...but, hey...its nature! )....and since this pregnancy is going along swimmingly I'm assuming I'll be right around my due date this time as well (here's hopin!...I know there's no way of really knowing, but I'm an optimist!)

So, what does this mean for scheduling Christmas/Holiday and Winter portrait sessions? Well...it means it's business as usual until about the 2nd week in December.

I have a chunk of open dates for portrait sessions. Remember, I come to you and locations are completely your choice (I have a massive location list that covers most of Southern Wisconsin if you need help).

So yes, I am STILL shooting...and plan to until I get down to the wire.

Weekday sittings are ALWAYS an option and I welcome them, but I know weekends are often most convenient for people, so here are some open dates to take a look at!

NOVEMBER: Weekdays are pretty open with the exception of Nov. 18th and Thanksgiving (I will be out of town from November 25-27) Weekend openings include the late afternoon of the 7th, and the 20th & 21st. If you would like to order prints, products, or albums for the holidays from your fall sitting, I highly recommend snatching up one of these November dates.

DECEMBER: December is pretty open. I think people fear my going into labor at their sitting. Fear not the Labor Fairy, folks! : )

Open dates include any weekday until the 15th and the weekend dates of the 4,5,11,& 12th.

As most seasons, if you are looking to get holiday cards or gifts made, time is of the essence.

Contact me @ typeaimages@gmail.com to set up your family/portrait sitting.

Daytripper | Chicago Family Photographer

2010-10-23T18:56:00.006-05:00

I woke up this morning feeling like I was "missing" something...or that I forgot to do something. It's not a good feeling....a feeling like you need to be somewhere but you're not sure WHERE....

Then I realized it was Saturday...and I had no wedding to shoot today. After a busy busy summer season it's such a bizarre feeling to have a Saturday practically off.

I did, however, get to take a leisurely "day trip" to Schaumburg, IL to photograph the Sostak family. I've done several sittings for the family...their kids are beyond adorable (and they play up to the camera, lucky me!). We hit up Busse Woods Forest Preserve in IL, and beat out the rain (a little sun even poked through...BONUS!).

Little Miss Edy just turned one and she was all smiles and cute-ness....Cal was a perfect subject and more than willing to throw clumps of leaves at me for "effect".

So glad we got a break in the bad weather! Enjoy the sneak peek!

DISCLAIMER: Edy has the bluest eyes known to man...seriously. So blue, in fact, that they look "enhanced". Just want to put it out there that I did not mess with Little Miss Edy's eyeballs. They are THAT blue...and THAT gorgeous by nature. Ok...enjoy!

"Hey Cal....throw a big clump of leaves at me! Really....do it!"

Ooookkayyy Lady....if you say so!

Seriously...those EYES...they're just amazing.

Ok....a little cheese-tastic...yes....but really, what good is being a family photographer if you cannot embrace the cheese sometimes? Life is short.... : )

Location: Busse Forest Preserve Schaumburg, IL

Friday Fractured Thought | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-10-22T12:19:00.004-05:00

- Allow me to start this week's Fractured Thought off with a bit of a pregnancy whine. I think I am housing a budding gymnast....that, or she's running out of room and fast. This kid doesn't stop kicking. Ever. All day long it's "bop bop bop....WHAM!" with her pointy little feet. Wonderful...miraculous....yadda yadda....it's kind of just uncomfortable at this point. Yeah, I've got 9 weeks to go....I'm so ready for December 23rd to get here! And if she decides to make an early entrance (not TOO early...mind you) I'll be all for it.

- Project Runway....again, I won't spoil it. I know how annoying that is. But, I think the judges are pretty much on crack this season. That or they have been struck blind.

- My hubby brought home an Ipad from work (he has to learn the in's and out's so he can support them....yay for us!). I can see how it MAY be cool...as kind of a novelty item at bridal meetings or something....but thus far the only real use it's getting in the Reseburg household is from Betty and her enjoyment over a bug-squashing game. Kind of an expensive play-thing.

Pass.

- Speaking of technology, I'm about THIIIISSSS close to getting a "real" cellphone. I've been on the "pay as you go" lame-o phone track for quite a few years.....fervently resisting things such as texting or Ap's or anything of that nature. I hate cellphones...I am a complete technophobe when it comes to cellphones. As long as mine can call people I'm a happy camper...but start me on a texting route and I'm pretty much all thumbs. It takes me a good 20 minutes to send a quick text.

But, I'm realizing I need to just bite the stinkin' bullet and get a real phone. One with a Qwerty keyboard so I can text without fear of ridicule over my need to properly write out most words and explain everything in long, drawn out sentences.

- How cool was it that they got Ben Gibbard (of Death Cab for Cutie fame) and my favorite girl Zooey Deschanel to sing at the Giant's game the other night? Ben did a really stripped down, beautiful rendition of the National Anthem and Zooey's version of God Bless America was quite beautiful. I love her voice.

- My husband informed me that I scheduled my Holiday mini-sessions smack dab during a Packers/Jets game. Shows how much I know about football schedules. Go me! Well, if you decide to come on out for a quick 20 minute session on Oct. 31st, I promise to make it a good one : )

- Kind of sad Teen Mom is over. How cute are Catelynn and Tyler? I just want to take them home and give them stability. Seriously.

- I have to give a huge, big, awesome shout out this week to my lab Miller's Professional Imaging. Holy COW are they on the ball. I ordered a gigantor flush mount album for a client on late Tuesday night. It was on my doorstep, looking gorgeous, by Thursday morning. Miller's rocks.

- Speaking of Type A type-stuff, if you read below I'm currently running a 25% off SmugMug orders sale for clients, client pals, family, etc. This applies to prints, canvases, thin wraps, and downloads. Coupon code is : seasonend10. The sale is good through November 15th, so spread the word!

- Also, I have a few openings still for sittings in November. I will be working on portrait sittings up until my due date (Dec. 23rd) so get those holiday sittings booked : )

However, I am trying to get all album orders for the holidays in by the next 2 weeks, so if you can send me your orders/picture choices ASAP that would be great!

- The holidays are also a popular time for Kindred Spirits Hospice sittings. If you or someone you know is a patient of Hospice and would like a free of charge documentary hospice sitting, email me at typeaimages@gmail.com and lets set something up.

- This week I took Betty to the pumpkin patch in Caledonia, IL. This place is adorable...and its free admission during the week! She loved it, and it gave us a chance to get out of the house while the weather was still decent!

Coming up this week: RELAXATION. A sitting scheduled for tomorrow (which hopefully still goes through...it's supposed to rain...big BOO!)...bridal meetings...Madison CLASS get-together (YAY!) and another family sitting on Friday. WHEW!) I have two weddings remaining for the season...this season SPED by. 32 weddings later...I'm ready for a NAP!

Here's your weekly moment-o-Betty. Enjoy!

Trying out her Halloween costume. She's a "Nice Giraffe" (I say Evil Giraffe is still cooler)

Forgive the "orange-y-ness of this picture....our living room has a very warm hue and I was too lazy to white balance properly. Bad, bad me...I know. But any-whoo....this is Betty...shakin' her tail feather to Jimmy Eat World. That's my girl!

Hittin' up the corn at the pumpkin patch in Caledonia. After we had done the corn maze several times I realized you were supposed to buy tickets for it. Whoops.

25% OFF SMUGMUG SALE!! : )

2010-10-21T16:30:00.000-05:00

NOW What Do I do | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-10-19T16:09:00.006-05:00

Once your Type A Images pictures are all nicely edited and finalized, and you get your excited little hands on that DVD of proofs, you may be wondering "Well...NOW what?"

The confusing part about commissioning a professional to take pictures for you, whether it is for a wedding, a portrait session, or something entirely different, is that each professional does things just a bit differently. This will account for the wild range of prices you may find out there when looking for a photographer (well...that and....there's that whole "ya get what ya pay for" thing, but we won't go into that!)

A lot of people offer just the "shoot and burn" approach. Shoot...and burn you a disc (some will just hand you their CF or SD cards!). Warts (and bad exposures or out of focus images) and all. That's it. After that, you're on your own. Take it on over to CVS and get your prints. Easy peasy? Sure! Cheap? Probably! Professional and a great experience to rave about....well.....meh. Probably not. It's the drive-thru at McDonald's approach to photography commissions. Serves a purpose, cheap and fast, but McNuggets are probably not going to be winning any Michelin Stars any time soon...and shoot and burn isn't exactly the most high-end or dedicated way of approaching a customer's memories. A lot of newer photographers on the scene take this route for a number of reasons: low overhead (discs are cheap and editing software is expensive) and they think this is what customers want.

Some customers....sure! But, in this case...what kind of unique and professional experience is the customer getting? With DSLRs being so affordable these days, it doesn't take much skill or know-how to simply shoot machine-gun style and burn off a disc.

So, moving on....what CAN you do with your images?

Now, I offer a high-resolution DVD of proofs to my clients. This DVD has tweaked images that have gone through a culling process, eliminating the ones where you look like a goober or the flash didn't fire...you know, stuff of that nature. I painstakingly go through your pics to make sure the ones I hand you are work that I will stand behind...that I'm proud of.

Not every photographer offers the high-res DVD, and that's kind of a personal thing for each photographer. Some are album focused (which is awesome, and I'll get to WHY its awesome in a bit) and some want you to buy physical prints first. I offer the DVD of proofs for a number of reasons: I'm a tech geek and I think its important that you have your files to put on your computer and back up that way and, truth be told, I want you to stick those suckers on Facebook and spread the word of my awesome-ness. : ) Word of mouth, baby.

But, I do think physical prints ARE important...and I do my best to guide my clients in a way that will get them the best results for their hard-earned cash. It makes me a sad panda when I think of my images being printed out at Walmart or Walgreens, in all honesty. Why? Because these are not professional prints. The machines used to print out the images are not going to be able to tell if I wanted the image to BE as saturated (or un-saturated) as the file shows....and the kid running the machine is probably going to assume I want everything jacked up to major-saturation. They won't look at each images as a separate entity...but the batch as a whole, and they will all be processed the same according to the machine's settings. You may get lucky with the drugstore routlette and end up with some halfway decent prints....but I wouldn't count on it.

Type A Images offers professional lab images via your online proofing site SmugMug, and I have to say I continue to be impressed with the quality of printing I get from the professional lab. It's just heads and shoulders above the Fuji machine at Walgreens. Plus, when you commission a photographer to do a sitting for you, you are paying for that photographer's eye...their vision...their take on the subject. THAT is the price you plop down for the 8x10. The image printed on the paper. So, when you question why a Walgreens 8x10 is $1 and mine, well...are more than that, the reason is you are paying for the BEST representation of the image you hired me to make. In the color, clarity, and form I intended it to be in.

To make another food analogy, you wouldn't have Wolfgang Puck make you a steak and then smother it in Hunt's Ketchup, right? Well...you might...but I'm sure Wolfgang wouldn't be too pleased...and you would have wasted the price of the steak, because all you're going to taste is ketchup. Cheap...unappealing....ketchup.

Canvas gallery wraps are another great way to put your favorite images to use. These suckers are GORGEOUS and always a conversation piece. I have several, and I've gifted several to family members featuring my cheeky little Peanut, and they always love them. There's just something to be said for seeing your darling little mug blown up on canvas. I recently ordered a bunch for my office from the lab and I was really blown away by the color quality and sharpness. Just fabulous. So, I do highly recommend picking up a few...especially with Christmas coming because these make awesome presents that are sure to beat the pants off any Snuggie or Slap-Chop you can stick under the tree.

On to albums, I'm a big believer in albums. I wrote a blog about the importance of an album a few months ago and I stick by that sentiment. We never got an album from our wedding and its one of my biggest regrets. Sure, you may say, I'll make my own.....blah blah blah. Let me just share this with you: no, you probably won't. After the wedding is done you're going to move on to other things and that disc of images is going to start collecting dust. If you're not having your photographer build you an album, you're missing out.

I was there...I saw your whole day...typically from start to finish. So, presenting my vision of your wedding day story is part of my job description. Binding this all together in a beautiful, professional album or press print book is a great part of my job. It's presenting you with the final telling of your story...in a beautiful, heirloom way.

I just started offering new album choices and I'm really excited about them. Everything from press print guestbooks with linen paper (GREAT way to show off your engagement session) to leather bound flush mounts.

I know it can be a daunting thought with all of the option out there. So, no matter who you hire to capture your day or photograph your family, sit down and talk with them about the options they offer to get the most from your images. You hire a professional for a reason: to get professional images. Take that all the way to the end of the experience and get professional level prints and products to show off your images. You'll be happier with your experience in the long-run.

Leather flush mount with hinged, lay-flat pages

The new guestbook option with linen texture paper (no smudges!). These are also great for parent albums.

See how linen-y? : )

Gallery wraps.

Abandoned Buildings and an Entourage | Milwaukee Engagement Photographer

2010-10-17T21:30:00.006-05:00

Whenever I have more than 1 sitting in 1 day, I always challenge myself to come up with something different for each....I try not to repeat the previous "performance" and I try to keep things "fresh".

Today, Katie and Brady (my 2nd couple for the day) made it easy by not only being open to trying out a new venue for me...but by bringing "help" : ) . This allowed me to do some off-camera light stuff that I'm testing the waters on....and I really like the results.

We met at the couple's home in Milwaukee...which isn't too far from where I used to live (and the location my GPS still calls home....awww...sniffles). After a few shots there we ventured over to the Menomonee River Parkway with entourage in tow to help with hair mishaps and flash-holding. It was quite awesome. I may travel with an entourage more often.

From there I wanted to hit up the abandoned buildings on Swan Blvd. The buildings (which if you live in Milwaukee you've probably passed a zillion times) used to be an agricultural school and an orphanage at one point (not a sanitarium, like some have suggested, that is a different building off of Mayfair apparently). But, they are super cool looking and with the sun setting behind them, I was completely jazzed to try them out.

I have to thank Katie, Brady, and their "entourage" for being major troopers and following me all over as I searched out parking and walked them through the fields to the destination. I hope it was worth it, I certainly think it was!

Enjoy the sneak peek!

I big huge pink-puffy-heart this picture. Not sure what it is about it that I just adore, but I LOVE it.

The "entourage"

Locations: Private Home

Menomonee River Parkway/Hoyt Park

Eschweiler Buildings

Fields of Gold | Kewaskum Engagement Photographer

2010-10-17T20:53:00.003-05:00

You'll remember me when the west wind moves

Upon the fields of barley

You'll forget the sun in his jealous sky

As we walk in fields of gold

So she took her love

For to gaze awhile

Upon the fields of barley

In his arms she fell as her hair came down

Among the fields of gold

- Sting

Now, I am not much of a country gal. Animals kind of freak me out (especially up close), I'm allergic to most flora and fauna, and I've never been on a four-wheeler. So I was a tad out of my element visiting Jarrod and Courtney on Jarrod's family farm. But holy COW is their property gorgeous. So, photographically speaking I was in heaven.

I was greeted in the driveway by the biggest dog alive....this dog was practically bear-sized. Harmless, however, I learned. We hopped in the farm vehicle (not a four-wheeler...but it had four wheels....and got us around the property) and visited the one remaining cluster of trees in the vicinity that was still holding it's blaze-orange color. I think we still got the feeling of fall Courtney was going for.

We got everything done with enough time to spare to watch at least SOME of the Packer game, I hope!

Enjoy the sneak peek, guys, and thanks for inviting me to spend the afternoon with you on the farm : )

Jarrod resembles someone famous and I just cannot place it. Any pop culture geeks out there wanna help me out?

How's this for some color?

Location: Private Residence Kewaskum, WI

Well It's About Time | Beloit Engagement Photographer

2010-10-16T20:13:00.004-05:00

We go back so far,

Swingin in your back yard,

All the things that we used to do

We were cool back in high school

Ooh I really liked you,

Must have been your attitude.

- Natasha Bedingfield

The title of this blog is oh so appropriate...because it's EXACTLY what I said when I got Mike and Jessie's wedding invite in the mail last April.

Well, first I said "Wow...that's a REALLY elaborate April Fool's Joke!" (probably should have picked a different day for those to arrive in our mailboxes)

Then, after confirming that the two were actually getting married I said "Well...it's about time!"

Mike is my husband's cousin and he's been with Jessie since high school. He turns 30 this year, so that will give you some idea of the length of their courtship. The two will be married in April 2011 in Mexico and then have a hometown celebration for all of those who can't make it to the beach nuptials.

We chose Beloit College for their engagement session. Jessie is a former student and the campus is pretty lovely this time of year. We were working around a bridal party AND groups of awkward teens gearing up for tonight's homecoming dance (all accompanied by their moms snapping photos...oh so cute).

The family is SO happy for you guys and I cannot WAIT for the party next summer. Enjoy the sneak peek!

I call this Mike's "Toothpaste Commercial" smile.

Location: Beloit College Beloit, WI

Friday Fractured Thought | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-10-14T23:56:00.002-05:00

A bit early (ok, 5 minutes early)...but I'm up late kicking bootay and taking names tonight with some boring administrative type stuff...so I thought I'd get the blog post up while I was up and at it.

- Making some minor changes to the blog/site/Twitter/etc....just color wise really, to kind of match new branding and identity stuff that will be going into affect. I had some grander plans for a new custom website, but life being how it is (babies being priority and all....) that has been put on temporary hold. But, the ideas are still swimming in my head...so I'm doing what I can with what I know about HTML and customizing my Photobiz site. Not exactly what I'm going for, but its getting there.

- Speaking of spending money, we got ourselves a new vehicle this week. For the last few years my husband had been driving my old beater....a Suzuki Aerio (don't feel bad, even the guy at the dealership had never heard of them). I think Aerio may be Japanese for "Crap Bucket"....not quite sure. We finally got him a new car that didn't scream "TEENAGER". We got ourselves a Mazda6. Nice little vehicle, if I do say so myself.

- Like last year, I'll be offering Type A Images Gift Certificates for the holiday season. These make awesome gifts and they are completely customizable for any amount. Shoot me an email and I'll hook you up!

- And while we're on the topic of Christmas/Holiday/Festivus gifts, albums and prints also make fab presents...but not if you wait until the last minute to order them....just sayin'.

- How sad about Courtney Cox and David Arquette. Not SO much about Christina Aguilera and Jordan Bratman, only because that whole union was kind of....off. Because she's, well...a hottie and he's kind of weird looking. I know....I know...looks are not everything....it's subjective. But cmon.....he lucked out. How long could he expect that luck to last?

- I won't spoil Project Runway (because I know some folks don't get to watch it right away), but I will say that I'm happy with the results thus far. Sort of. How's that for vague?

- Funny Betty-ism for this week (since I...GASP!!...don't have any new pictures of her to share)

Betty: "Mama, my potato fell under my bed"

(note: not a REAL potato....a fake, plastic tomato that she calls a potato)

Mom: "Can you get under there and reach it?"

Betty: "No, can you get it?"

Mom: "I'm a bit busy right now, Betty. Can't you get to it?"

Betty: **BIG SIGH** "Okay....but I have really little arms"

Man, I love her.

Since I'm sans-Betty-pics this week, a picture of the new ride will have to suffice. Enjoy.

This weekend is shaping up to be pretty relaxed. Three engagement sessions this weekend...a little break in the marathon of weddings leading up to the end of the season.

I Will | Milwaukee Wedding Photographer

2010-10-11T12:36:00.008-05:00

Who knows how long I've loved you

You know I love you still

Will I wait a lonely lifetime

If you want me to, I will

- The Beatles

Natalie and Andrew landed the coveted date of 10-10-10 for their wedding...a date that I had no less than five other couples contact me for. Very popular day and it couldn't have been better for this couple. It was beautiful...and the fall leaves were blazing orange, yellow, and red. The perfect fall day, which I think is exactly what Natalie and Andrew were hoping for.

The late afternoon ceremony kicked off at the War Memorial Museum in Milwaukee, which overlooks the lake and the Art Museum, making for a stunning setting. The late afternoon light was the perfect companion to the intimate vows and funny moments (mid-ceremony the art museum closed the Calatrava "wings" and accompanied this with what can only be described as weird marching music blasting from the building.....made for a nice moment).

The party continued at the War Memorial later that evening with massive amounts of boogy-ing down.

I hope everyone had a fantastic evening and enjoyed the unseasonably warm weather. Enjoy the sneak peek!

I LOVE this shot. LOVE it. Natalie's poor, sweet mom! This is what weddings are all about.

Killer color.....man, I love fall.

I had just watched possibly the worst movie ever the night before this wedding. Sex and the City 2. Do yourself a favor and PASS...big time...but when I saw the city street the only thing I could think of was the "struttin' down the street" a ' la Carrie and the Girls.....

Natalie said the ground floor of the War Memorial was very "elementary school chic". I agree.

Ceremony and Reception: War Memorial Museum Milwaukee, WI

Flowers: Locker's

DJ: Elite Signature DJs

Caterer: Chef Jack's

Transportation: Cream City Rickshaw

Over the River and Through the Woods | Beloit Family Photographer

2010-10-09T11:52:00.007-05:00

To grandmother's house we go....

Today I had the pleasure of an early morning sitting with Traci, her husband, her boys, and grandparents at the family home in Beloit. The sun was spilling over the fields and through the trees and it made for a great fall scene all around.

We started with some tractor posing....a must for any farm-centered shoot, I think! The boys were a bit...how should I say....hesitant to play up to the camera. Nothing some granola bars and a little trickery couldn't fix : )

I actually have a rare, easy-peasy Saturday today so it was nice to get a relaxed, family-focused shoot in before I take the rest of the day off!

Enjoy the sneak peek!

How great are grandmas? : ) Traci's grandma is teaching her how to cook, so she thought a shot by the stove was fitting.

Location: Private home

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