2009 in Review…

It’s hard to believe that there is only 2 weeks + left in 2009!  It seems to always start to fly by once the Fall hits.   Many of you know that before photography – I taught elementary ed. in Niskayuna.   It’s a regular practice for a teacher to self-reflect.  Now I’m not talking about requirements, just day to day, or lesson to lesson reflections.  Although my teaching days are behind me – I still find that routine very much ingrained.   I love looking through proofs from a session – and discovering what I walked away with.   I mentally prepare before a session – and generally do have an idea of what my client is looking for, as well as ideas I have in mind.  However, the best photos are always a result of just letting the session unfold in front of me!

In preparation for 2010 - I’ve had the chance to go back through the sessions from the year.  I really was honored to meet and work with so many wonderful families!  Maternity and Newborn sessions begun 2009 – working with many expecting mothers, and some absolutely beautiful newborn babies!  As I reviewed these images, I really noticed how much I do stick to my style, or maybe better said – my vision of what should be documented during these sessions.  I LOVE the lines that my eye is drawn to.  The roundness of a belly – the delicate wrinkles of newborn fingers.  These details are so precious – that I  focus on them.   Two words to sum it up…. ”detailed simplicity” 

Boudoir was a new area that I worked with this year – and how much fun it is!!!  The nerves were always there – but quickly diminished and turned to laughing, joking and relaxed smiles!  The women I worked with were stunning. And I’m thrilled to know how beautiful they felt when they viewed their images.   Hoping to really work in this are more next year – keep the idea in your head … it’s the perfect gift – and although it sounds crazy…Valentine’s Day isn’t far off!!!

As we moved into the warmer months – the family and children sessions became more popular. I met the owners of Felthousen’s Greenhouse and Florist in Niskayuna, and joined them for their Spring Event.   Not much cuter than little kids and baby chicks!    Again, looking at the families I worked with this year - there’s a common thread to their images.  Playfulness!  Of course I’ll pose everyone and ask that everyone look at the camera – but that’s not my goal.   Natural interactions – squealing laughs and tickles….those are the elements that make amazing Family Portraits!

In addition to family sessions, the summer brought some High School Senior sessions as well!  One of my favorite thing to do, is to help Seniors really celebrate who they are!  I love hearing about their hobbies, seeing their clothing style, and seeing the excitement in their eyes as they talk about what the next fall will hold for them!!!

September, October and November were loaded with family sessions, generally with the “HOLIDAY PHOTO” the number one priority!   So many great families!!!

I honestly can not say enough about the wonderful people I’ve worked with this year.  I’m honored that so many of my clients have chosen to work with me year after year – and am appreciative of those who contacted me for their first sessions.

Best wishes for a delightful holiday season – full of laughs, good health, and of course wonderful photos!

Looking forward to seeing you in 2010!

I LOVE Maternity sessions – I know I’ve said it before, but the lines of a pregnant woman’s body are so beautiful! And although I do process in color sometimes too…the simplicity of Black and White just lets the belly stand on it’s own.

This will be baby number 2 for this gorgeous mommy. Not too far off now! Simply a stunning belly to photograph!>