Angie Starr Photography

Birthday Girl Shoot!

2012-01-29T17:17:00.004-05:00

One and loving it!

I got to take pictures of this cutie yesterday :-)

Newborn photos in Niskayuna

2011-07-09T13:13:00.000-04:00

What a beautiful family I was able to photograph this last week. This little guy looks JUST like his dad, to me. Can anyone else see it?

This little girlie was just adorable to watch with her new baby! She loved to give him kisses on the head, play with his feet and just look at him. Adorable!

Every mom deserves to have a beautiful picture with her new baby.

Yes, dad was a Pro Football player at Utah State. So, I wanted to show how much smaller his new little man was next to him (notice the hands). I loved watching him enjoy all the small things his baby would do.

Mom was so good at getting the little guy to calm down and I was grateful to catch the tender moment of her soothing him.

Saratoga Springs Wedding

2011-06-14T14:19:00.001-04:00

Maura and Derek are two easy to like people and so were their families and the bridal party. I really enjoyed my day with them at the Saratoga Dance Museum for their wedding.

We shared lots of laughs and oohs and awes as all the girls finished getting ready.

Then we set up for Maura and Derek to have their first look since they wanted to see each other before the ceremony (which was a fantastic idea to perhaps calm some nerves).

Derek may have been slightly emotional when he first saw his stunning bride.

After the first meeting and a quiet moment together, we brought the whole bridal party together and the young group let me get some energetic shots!

These guys would not let me stop laughing at the things they'd come up with as I guided them through my ideas for photographs.

All these girls are so beautiful, add a gorgeous dress, a great hair style and dash of makeup and we captured some very memorable shots.

Then, they got married.

It was a beautiful, custom ceremony by Reverend Joy Burke; she was a pleasure to work with and clearly puts her heart into the work she does.

After the ceremony there was a cocktail hour and then the reception. I loved how the couple had a family of paparazzi's taking pictures at their entrance.

The flowers were perfectly designed to match the theme of the Museum's decor, Maura's dress and each of the the bridesmaids. Simply put, they couldn't have been better! Splendid Stems did a fantastic job putting this all together!

I loved seeing a shot from our Engagement photo session at the sign in table.

Next we danced the night away with the Karen Lawrence Band keeping things lively and upbeat.

Ilion, NY Wedding

2011-06-06T18:06:00.002-04:00

Chrissie and Chad:

High School Sweethearts (grew up a mile away from each other) +

Mom's are great friends +

Energetic and beautiful Bridal Party =

Unforgettable Wedding!

I loved watching Chad (groom) and his father interact while getting ready. There is an obvious close kinship there.

Chrissie told me about this great place so we took a short drive and got some great shots at the entrance of Forest Hill Cemetery.

They just played it up as a few cars drove by honking.

This flower girl was just a doll!

Phoenix Zoo photoshoot

2011-03-09T01:45:00.000-05:00

I was able to attend Wedding and Portrait Photographers International or WPPI in Las Vegas a couple weeks ago with a good friend, Leigh. To describe it in one word, I'd have to say: OVERWHELMING! Can overwhelming be good too though because it was a good kind of stress. I really dug down inside myself in figuring out which direction to take my business. I don't know that I have all my questions answered, but I feel that I have a pretty good idea for how to continue to grow from here.

I feel that I've been rejuvenated as a photographer to pursue my passion, to capture individuals as they are and not how they tend to act in front of a photographer and camera. On our 5 hour drive home from Vegas to Arizona, Leigh and I revamped our photography businesses to run more efficiently and to apply the new ideas we'd molded from other photographers techniques. We set goals and committed to each other that within a month, one thing we were going to do is to shoot two photo sessions for people we did not know, with the new techniques implemented.

So, the day after getting back from the thrill of the Vegas trip I was at a play date with my sister in law and met an amazing woman who has 5 children under 10! I felt particularly drawn to her and after chatting a few moments she agreed to let me photograph her family. I called and we talked about her family's interests and we set a date to meet at the Phoenix Zoo for a photoshoot! How fun is that? So, just last night we met there and shot till the kids were asking about dinner. We had so much fun and got so much energy out in that hour and a half.

We started at the bridge looking at the turtles and ducks.

And from there, I let the kids guide us to where we should go and what places looked fun because I figured if they were happy with where we were, they'd be happy for the pictures as well.

Don't they just look like a fun bunch?!

This little guy is a twin and just as energy filled as his older brother. I caught him here at a mini tantrum moment, but love the curly whips of hair that are glowing in the sun. Adorable!

I'm not sure if he was just playing with me with the pouty face because no more than 30 seconds later, I captured this great shot as he jumped up from a hiding spot.

This cutie-patootie is a twin to the curly haired boy above and is so tender. She was a great listener and just small and darling.

This girl is just a doll! She was so much fun to take pictures of because of her porcelain like facial features. She was a sweetheart as well.

And she knows how to play!

And to be adventurous!

This big guy was as adventurous as ever! When I saw his enthusiasm as he jumped off this bench, I could almost see a flash of his future being a rock climber or an Olympic high jumper. One word to describe him: ENERGY. (I'd love for him to pass some of that over to me!)
Also, his face is priceless in this picture because you can see that every part of him wanted to jump as high as the sky.

As the oldest, this boy was a great help and full of smiles and a good attitude. He was also first in line as we played follow the leader on the way back up the path. He's definitely going to grow up to be a heartbreaker!

Some of the kiddos were upset because the pen where you can pet the goats was closed by the time we got to the barn, but the shut doors sure made a nice backdrop!

On our way out, I couldn't help but snap a shot all together with a sunflare of the evening sun.

I had a great time getting to know the Smith family even better and enjoyed being with their children. Thank you for letting me be apart of your afternoon!

One year portraits

2011-02-03T13:33:00.000-05:00

This little guy is the nephew of a brides wedding I shot and he just turned one. He was so much fun to play with!

The Rees's Christmas Photos

2011-01-24T20:22:00.000-05:00

Baby Issy

2010-12-28T20:28:00.000-05:00

So, I'm several photo shoots behind track on here, so I better get started with one of my latest sessions. A little one I've nicknamed, Izy. I enjoyed this session because watching Izy's mom and dad was precious. They were both so acutely aware of baby's needs. I also enjoyed getting to know mom and dad as well and discovered the unique way in which Izy's mom found my work.

Here's the story: So, I shot a wedding at The Van Dyck in Schenectady and this Izy's mom happened to be the bartender. I don't remember seeing it, but she was probably 7 or 8 months pregnant at that time. So, she never asked for a business card then (I don't know that she knew I did portrait work for infants), but she was chatting with a friend later about getting pictures of her newborn. Her friend referred her to me because her hairdresser (who is also my hairdresser) has talked about my work and has pictures I've done for her at work as well. So, from this friend, Izy's mom got my website. As she was looking around, she came to the blogpost of the wedding I shot at the Van Dyke (where she works!) and low and behold, she found a picture of herself (you can see the post here)! Wow! How crazy is that?!

Izy is just a cutie pie who loved to bundled in her purple blanket and to stay warm.

Supermodel Sunrise

2010-09-24T09:33:00.000-04:00

So, technically they're not paid super models, but I could swear that because they regularly watch Americas Next top Model, this couple was perfect to shoot. Of course they are very good looking and so maybe that played into it all too, but I think I'm gonna have to start recommending my clients watch a season of the show before coming out for a shoot.

We carpooled out to John Boyd Thacher State Park and arrived about 20 minutes before sunrise. The view was magnificent on this clear day! From the lookout we were at, you could see downtown Albany's tall buildings.

They were so comfortable with each other; I loved it.

And then the sun came up!

It was mesmerizing.

Don't they look wonderful together?

After the sun rose we walked down to where there is sometimes a waterfall. It was out of commission at the time, but we did find a neat cave! Here we are at the entrance.

Maura wrote their initials on the rock for this one.

Downtown engagement session

2010-09-21T13:07:00.000-04:00

Chrissie and Chad are a very sporty couple and we had a good chat while taking engagement pictures in downtown Albany. We stayed pretty close to the Hudson River and found a lot of unique designs and structures in buildings. I am definitely looking forward to their wedding in their hometown of Ilion, NY next May.

Here are their Save The Date's I put together; they turned out really great!

They also ordered a Silhouette Sign in board. It's kind of like a guest book, but something they can put up on their walls after the wedding day. They ordered it to be a 16X20 (at the outer edge) so there will be plenty of room for their 100 guests to leave messages.

(I used the picture below to create the above print.)

Family Portraits

2010-08-31T22:08:00.000-04:00

This family lives in what I call the ideal neighborhood with the ideal backyard! It's a terraced yard, they've got a pool and even room for a softball field. Beautiful!
It was really fun getting to know each of the three kiddos. Ultimately, they are looking for a large "oil painting" canvas gallery wrap to hang on their wall.

This girlie was the cutest thing, EVER!

New Gallery Wrap options!

2010-08-23T11:40:00.001-04:00

You know those coffee table albums that are about $1000 a pop? Well, I've come up with a more cost effective way to incorporate many pictures of your wedding day (50 to be exact) and for half the price of an album!
So, for $500 you can now order a 30"X30" gallery wrap to hang on your wall that features your top 50 photos!

Although the picture may look small on your screen, in actuality this canvas gallery wrap is very large. The center square alone, is 14"X14" and each smaller square is 3"X3" (the size of a standard post it note).
Also note that the bride and grooms names are wrapped around the side of the gallery wrap and so are visible from the side, below or above.
I'm anxious for the actually gallery wrap to get here, though it's probably another week till it arrives. I will definitely be taking pictures of it hanging in my office.

Wedding in Vermont

2010-08-12T13:22:00.000-04:00

Chris and Jen were a pleasure to work with. Really, I couldn't think of anyone more relaxed yet fun than this couple! Chris told me a few times that the two most important things on the wedding day was beer and fun; I think his wishes came true. Everyone had a great time and there was plenty of drinking.

We first met at the Fushion Salon in Saratoga Springs where Jen, her bridesmaids and mother all had their hair and makeup done. Melanie Ghobrial was the great makeup artist who applied on Mom and Jen. She doesn't work full-time, but she told me she always comes in for weddings because she loves them.

Jen and her hair stylist could have been longtime friends by the way they talked with each other and were excited for the wedding that evening.

All the bridesmaids were anxious to be in on the dress donning and to help with the many buttons.

The West Mountain Inn is in Arlington, Vermont. They had the great idea to rent the entire Inn for the weekend for friends and family to stay at. Actually, about 2/3 of all the wedding guests stayed there for the weekend!

Jen couldn't help but laugh at the struggle to get Chris's ring to fit.

Jen hand folded each origami on this tree outside the reception barn for each person to find their table number. What a cute idea!

They had a live band at the reception, Andy Avery Entertainment, who were actually REALLY good! They sang many love songs in several eras and genres from oldies to country.

The Hipples

2010-07-19T22:08:00.000-04:00

What an adorable family these friends from church are. Baby Ethan was born less than 2 weeks prior and is as cute as can be! After a little work, Mom got baby to sleep and he was a champ the rest of the session. He could have slept in this basket forever I think.

Van Dyck Wedding

2010-07-15T15:06:00.000-04:00

It's been such a pleasure getting to know Kelly and Jack. He is the classy gentleman type who tenderly cares for his sweetheart and she equally loves and adores him. They were wed at the Van Dyck Lounge; a beautiful, newly renovated restaurant and bar in Schenectady, NY.

A big thank you to the DJ: Ben with BH Design Studio for doing a great job with the songs.

He even got Kelly and Jack to get out on the dance floor together.

Which made for some great photos of the two of them enjoying each other.

I love the way he loves her... ahhh...

I wish the best to Kelly and Jack, I'm sure they will be happy with each other for many years to come! Thank you for allowing me to witness the happiness couples can share.

Fun at the Park

2010-07-08T22:27:00.001-04:00

The Rees' are an adorable family I attend church with and she is also my hair dresser. We had a fun day at the park and enjoyed the anticipation of whether or not it was going to rain on us or be sunny. Within the hour and a half we were there it went both ways; threatened rain, sprinkled for 5 minutes, and was sunny.
The Rees' loved this shot at overlooking the lake just as much as I did and actually ordered a large canvas gallery wrap of it.

Don't you just wanna kiss those cheeks?

Sun-flare Mania

2010-07-08T22:11:00.000-04:00

I recently had the opportunity to take engagement photos of Chris and Jen. They really looked so good together and I thoroughly enjoyed taking pictures of them. They literally live less than 2 miles from Saratoga Spa State Park so it's where we met for the session. We met at around 7:00 in the morning so the sun had already been up at least an hour and a half, but because the trees were so thick, I was hardly aware of the cloudless sky.

I just couldn't get enough of the sun rays shining through the trees behind them!

Can you tell I'm a fan of the flare?

Graduation Shoot

2010-05-09T00:11:00.002-04:00

So, this is my first Graduation shoot, but it turned out well. I was amazed at how different it was compared to an infant or family shoot. Unlike toddlers, I didn't have to chase her down the street or entice her with treats after the shoot. She looked good because she's just that good. I swear, she could probably hold a pose (smile and all) for 10 minutes if I asked her too. As we took pictures she told me stories of being at photography studios for hours and hours while her and her siblings waited for each other to get there pictures so they could have a turn to be in the spotlight. Thanks Kait, for the fun session!

Why can't they all be like Baby D?

2010-04-15T22:32:00.005-04:00

Baby D is darling and was probably the easiest baby I have ever photographed!

Mom said she had been very cranky for a couple hours prior so by the time she came over to play was wiped out; perfect.

Big sis is just as cute and photogenic.

Almost candid. She really loves kissing little sis's feet.

"Peek-a-boo!"

Too precious!

Christmas Cards! Order by Nov 28!

2009-11-21T15:19:00.002-05:00

For all those of you interested in Christmas Cards; I've got several templates to choose from on my website: www.angiestarrphotography.com. Click on the Clients tab and enter in password: "Christmas Cards" and you'll see several different templates in size 4X6, 5X7, 4X8, and 5X5. Order by Nov 28 and you'll receive them in time to send them out as Christmas Cards!
Here are a few examples:

The Owens

2009-10-29T13:34:00.003-04:00

While out in AZ for a month, I was able to get several photo shoots in while my dear mom helped with my two boys. My sister and brother-in-law had a baby just days before I arrived and I was able to get pictures of him and some of the siblings at his baby blessing. What an energetic family, even with a mom running on little sleep with a newborn!

Love the propped knee! He did that on his own and I ran in for the shot.

Is there anything more tender than seeing a mother admire her new baby?

Vegas Wedding

2009-10-11T10:15:00.012-04:00

Okay, Vegas, but not Vegas... Lyndsay and Aaron chose to have their wedding and reception at a Golf Resort which seemed to be as far from the strip as possible, while technically staying in Las Vegas. What a beautiful location they found!

The doors leading to the ceremony location. You can see a reflection of the chairs on the left door.

Love the shoes!

Let me introduce you to the bridal party...

The men and all their studliness

For as much as a fuss as these guys put up getting this shot, I think it looks pretty exciting and truly portrays the energy they had that day!

Bride and her bridesmaid's

The Ceremony

I love how she knew to look at Mom for a picture

(and what mom couldn't resist taking a picture of such a darling little girl).

"I now pronounce you husband and wife..."

A few of the portraits

Aaron's ring was so shiny; I tried to get a reflection shot of the two of them kissing.

Can you see it? Double click on the image to see it enlarged.

"I want that cupcake!" (that's what the girl behind him is thinking...)

Barbie and Ken... I mean, Lyndsay and Aaron were magnificent! I loved meeting them and their family. How beautiful they all are inside and out.

What I wouldn't give for NY to have AZ sunsets!

2009-09-29T01:38:00.009-04:00

Wow! I've never been so busy with photography as I have in the last month (that's not complaining BTW, just an excuse as to why some of you are still waiting for your pictures). Although I haven't had a lot of time to finish projects, here's one I have managed to; it's of my Uncle Jared and his fiance, Vickie.

My Uncle Jared is engaged to be married Oct. 9 and I was fortunate enough to be their photographer for the engagement session. What an in love couple they are!
Uncle Jared actually scoped out a great place near the four peaks turn off and at bear rock just off the B-line (sp?) highway.

I couldn't pass up several sun-glare shots.

The sunset was quite literally breathtaking! In fact, this is almost straight from the camera (meaning there is minimal editing).

The colors you see here are what we saw from our view! It was really that colorful!

Quick Question for those of you willing to respond to this post (I will post a reply soon): In this last picture, what do you think is behind her back?
And just in case you're wondering why I care, it's because I strategically place it there, but was wondering if a stranger to the picture would know what it is....

Allee and Brandon (video)

2009-09-12T03:43:00.005-04:00

Allee and Brandon, what a special couple they are! If I were to give a phrase to explain them, it'd be, "Laughing Cures All". They are so light-hearted and caring. We took these pictures Wednesday (the day they got married) and I've spent most my free time putting together this slideshow for their reception. Take a look!

www.angiestarrphotography.blogspot.com

I'm BACK! Anyone still there?...

2009-09-07T23:53:00.005-04:00

I'm getting back into the photography groove after having a baby, and was able to shoot an adorable family, the Clarks. Cindy Clark, Mom of the clan, designs and creates hair clippies, binky clips, and other baby decorations and sells them on etsy, the growing "homemade" website: www.cranberriesandcapers.etsy.com Ben is in school to be a nurse anesthetist and I believe this is his last year till he's able to practice!

Little Maddie was just a doll and by the end of the shoot was bustin' the poses as if it were second nature to be in front a of a camera. Camden is just about the cutest 3 year old around and Hazel is the most petite, darling little 8 month old you can imagine. To the Clarks, thanks for making my day!

New family blog!

2009-07-14T20:08:00.003-04:00

Hey all! It's been a few months and several life changing events later but here we are, in NEW YORK! Duane is a new resident at Albany Medical Center and we have a new addition to our household...Tristen Dean! Please check out our new blog at Duaneandangiesworld.blogspot.com to see the news.

Last day for outside portraits, May 9th!

2009-04-20T18:54:00.003-04:00

Hello Blog Followers!
What a HOT week it's going to be, which reminds me that I really don't want to be outside while it's so flamin' and I'm so pregnant. So, the last day for outside portraits is Saturday, May 9th! I'm due only 10 days later and will be moving soon after, so if you're interested in outside pics, let me know ASAP to get on the schedule!
Indoor pictures will be available till baby #2 comes (I'm due May 20) or until further notice... :)

Baby Raquel, straight from heaven!

2009-04-15T17:55:00.004-04:00

What a tender experience it was to photograph such a little sweetheart! My sister-in-law Dia, just had her first baby, a darling girl, Raquel. Their home was so inviting and Raquel's room was in perfect order with tubs labeled for their category and black and pink everywhere! After a few short feedings, Raquel was off to sleep; perfect for the photos!

We're leaving, wanna come along?

2009-04-07T17:52:00.002-04:00

I've decided to separate my photography and family blog so family and friends from good ol' AZ can keep up to date on our little family's life while we're away in Albany, NY for the next 4 years. If you would like your email to be added to the "update" list so you'll automatically be sent emails when the family blog is updated, simply leave a comment or reply.
For those of you who use blogspot yourselves and would like to become a follower, our new blog is http://duaneandangiesworld.blogspot.com/.
Thank you all for your love and support. We are sad to leave, but will surely visit AZ and hope you will keep in touch through, email, snail mail, blogs, and facebook.

Peppercorns are one thing, but the lid to my nice wok is another....

2009-04-02T14:58:00.003-04:00

So, Kalvin and I are driving to Show Low to see Daddy today and I was in my room packing, when I heard a crash come from the kitchen, seconds later Kalvin came in the room holding the top of the lid to my nice wok. He was not hurt and I was happy for that, but I'm sad to say good bye to my wok lid...

Upon walking in the kitchen I saw glass everywhere! It seriously spread EVERYWHERE! It had even turned a corner and was down my hallway... How in the world did that happen?

I guess it's pretty dangerous to leave Kalvin alone, I better get back to him...

Don't always answer the phone... especially on April Fools Day!!!

2009-04-01T14:05:00.006-04:00

It started off like any other day. Kalvin and I were eating bagels and eggs for breakfast, when I noticed the peppercorns had run out in the pepper crusher, so I got the large container of peppercorns and screw driver to open the crusher.

then the phone rang...

So, what did I do? I answered it and walked to a quiet room, leaving behind the screwdriver, pepper crusher, peppercorns, and KALVIN.... Bad idea.

As I was just finishing my phone conversation, Kalvin came in, and I notice a few black pebbles by his foot, but thought nothing of it, till I walked back in the kitchen to finish my project. This is what I saw...

Kalvin's April Fools joke to Mommy.

An empty peppercorn container, pots and pans everywhere, and Kalvin trying to use the handheld broom and dust pan to clean up the mess.

Boys will be boys.

Happy April fools!

What's the difference between a yard, garage, rummage and moving sale?

2009-03-26T11:52:00.008-04:00

Not much, but we're having a sale this Saturday that's more than just Spring Cleaning!

There are a lot of things Duane and I don't want to haul to New York and have decided to have a moving sale and this Saturday is the best weekend for us for many reasons. If you have anything you'd like to add to our collection of items, please contact me and I'll come pick them up Friday evening. Whatever is not sold Saturday will be taken to Deseret Industries that afternoon.

What: Moving Sale!

When: Saturday from 6:30-12:00

Where: 2111 W. Galveston Chandler 85224

A little later, I'll post pictures of some things that will be included in the sale.

New York, here we come!

2009-03-23T02:06:00.002-04:00

We'll be moving to Albany, NY!!! This last Thursday Duane and I had a family get together and opened our "call" for residency! I could hardly believe it! It wasn't our first pick, nor our second, or third, in fact, it was our last choice for residency and I had never imagined moving there, but the idea is growing on us.

After living in sunny AZ for my entire life, it will be hard to leave for many reasons: we'll have a 4-6 week old baby, ALL our immediate family lives in the valley, and for heaven's sake I don't even know if they have good Mexican food out there!

We'll move sometime in the middle or end of June, just in time to escape the hottest time of year. For months I've been building up a large garage sale/Deseret Industries pile and hope to have a sale in about 2 weeks after I finish going through all the rooms. Whatever we don't sell will swiftly be sent to DI. Let the house cleaning, and decluttering begin!

If anyone happens to come across winter clothes deals, let me know. I'm afraid my winter wardrobe is not up to freezing cold standards!

After doing a little research we've found that the total cost of living is slightly higher than AZ. The houses are less expensive, but the utility costs are 44% higher than here, crazy!

Duane and I are trying to decide the best way to find a home in Albany. We've searched on CL to get an idea for what houses are going for, but need to talk with someone who's lived or is living there to get a feel for what neighborhoods are ideal for our needs and so forth. It'd be nice to buy a home, but I'm afraid we'll end up renting first for 6-12 months and then purchase a home since we don't have much time to shop around and airline tickets are not cheap. Any words of advice for us in this area would be greatly appreciated because we've got close to no clue what we want to do or what all our options are! Duane will contact a couple residence up there, who are members of the LDS church for advice, but we're open to any ideas at this point.

We're very excited, anxious, and nervous for this big change in our lives, but with the Lords help will be able to endure all things!

Lindsey's Baptism Pictures at the temple!

2009-03-08T17:03:00.006-04:00

What a beautiful women Lindsey is, inside and out! She was baptized yesterday, March 7 into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. A couple days before the big one, Lindsey, my sister, April and I all went to the Mesa Temple and took pictures. The weather couldn't have been better, overcast and cool. April was there as a friend to Lindsey and an assistant for me! We put April's skills to the test by holding umbrellas for flash, and helping lug around the other camera equipment. What a trooper at 7 months preggers!
Lindsey was looking for fun, upbeat pictures and I think we got just that, mixed with symbolic and ironic photographs as well.

Fav. shot; simple, yet powerful!

Here, Lindsey is holding her little CTR ring.

As soon as we saw this grassy area, Lindsey said, "It makes me want to do cartwheels!" though she claimed to not having done one for years.

Love the tat and mystical, historical stone!

Always beautiful flowers at the temple grounds!

The first words that come to mind after composing this picture was, "I love to see the temple, I'm going there someday...".

Lindsey is a dancer, so I told her to dance with the silk scarf.

A candid shot of Lindsey laughing at herself or was she laughing at April...

Lindsey, thank you for letting me take these photos and for sharing you sweet spirit with me, it's contagious!

FREE Wedding Video, no purchase necessary!!!

2009-02-20T09:42:00.005-05:00

Hello All!

Lately I've been very interested in adding video interview DVD's to my wedding package. I've created many videos in the past and love it, but never for a wedding. My SLR camera has HD (1920 X 1080) capabilities and I'd like to put it to good use. The first engaged couple to contact me will receive a FREE interview and DVD! Depending on when your wedding is, I'd like to have it ready for your reception. Tell Friends and friends, friends! This is something they won't want to miss!

A little more about what I had in mind:

* The interview will be held in a place that is special to you!

* I will ask several questions to both of you (separately) and a couple with the two of you together

-How you met

-When you knew it was love

-Your favorite characteristics about the other

-The proposal

-and so on... we'll get the ball rollin' and have a blast!

I can hardly wait to get started!

A few requirements...

1. Your wedding must be before June 2009.

2. I need pictures of the two of you growing up, dating, and if possible engagement pictures.

3. You must be madly in love with your fiance.

Kevin's last few days...

2009-02-12T16:18:00.006-05:00

My brother, Kevin, left yesterday to serve a two year mission for the LDS church. How proud I am of him to make what may seem like a huge sacrifice for his faith. He'll be a great missionary in the Colorado Denver North Mission. The weekend before he left my mom had a series of family events planned: Sunday night was a BBQ for friends and family, followed by Monday nights extended family farewell breakfast-for-dinner (put together by Aunt Sue), Tuesday nights "last supper" potato bar for immediate family (all 22 of us), and finally Wednesday morning (4:00) at Denny's just before his flight left for Salt Lake City (where the Missionary Training Center is located). He was very excited to get out there and I'm sure he'll give his full effort in serving hte Lord.

At Tuesday nights potato bar I was able to gather everyone for one final family picture. It was actually my sister, Ruth's idea and she helped out a great deal in preparing for it. She asked everyone for their height and set us up according to it, from tallest to shortest. We got a sweet silhouette shot.

Good luck, Kevin, you'll be in our thoughts and prayers!

Teens ROCK!

2009-02-03T23:50:00.007-05:00

Ruth and Emily were inspired by several female dancers from the show, "So You Think You can Dance" and wanted a shoot dressed like them. Not even teenagers are too old to play dressup! We had a blast playing with lights (flashes and spotlights). By the end, I think we were all physically wiped out, yet could hardly wait to see the pics on a big screen. These were a few of my favs. from that night.

Angie's version of the touchup

2009-01-24T15:18:00.002-05:00

Duane sent this pic over to me and I played with it in Photoshop. Very fun! Which is your fav? Let's get a vote.

Roxborough Park, Colorado

2009-01-24T14:55:00.004-05:00

Duane here! I decided to tryout some landscape photography at Roxborough State Park. It was 22 degrees when we arrived and the fog hadn't dissipated until later in the morning. I really like this shot because it appears as if the rock formations are damming up the fog.

Playing in the leaves!

2009-01-21T01:47:00.006-05:00

I really should be sleeping right now, but this is too fun, plus Duane is out of town and I tend to stay up late when he's not here (though I pay for it in the morning when Kalvin gets up early).

Last week as I was over at my in-laws house letting the kiddo play outside, I noticed the trees had lost most their leaves (isn't it funny how fall doesn't hit in AZ till January) and had the brilliant idea to get the grandkids together for an exciting playing in the leaves, photoshoot. Good times! I think I had a better time than some of the kids though.

Adaira could hardly stay out of the leaves long enough for us to rack them back into a pile. Anyone could see how much she loved this game of throwing the leaves up to let them rain down on top of her. She is a darling little girl. That same day I saw her pick up a dandelion, pause while looking at it and say, "I wish to be a princess!" Then she blew and blew till all that was left was a bald stick. Then, she looked up to see another dandelion which she was thrilled to find, ran and picked it from the ground and without a moments hesitation said, "I wish to be Sleeping Beauty" as she blew with all her might. How precious!

The leaves were too crunchy for this little guy to immerse himself, but he did like compacting them in his hands to show his dominance.

As cushiony a leaves can be the little tike was not too fond of them unless in Mom or Dad's lap. Poor little guy; stuck in the leaves while Mom, Dad, and I try to convince a smile.

What a stylin' family! Actually, the physical closeness they show in the picture exemplifies their closeness as a family.

Mom and Dad love their little boy so much!

Darling!

They're just naturally photogenic! I hardly had to tell them how to sit. They fell right into place.

Ultrasound!

2009-01-06T16:02:00.004-05:00

Duane, Kalvin and I went to the Doctors office to see my ultrasound on Dec. 23. We are having another BOY and are all very excited! Just now I pulled out the CD the technician gave me of the ultrasound and realized each image was saved as a "jpg". I kept putting off looking at the pictures because I thought they'd be in some strange format since every time I've had been given x-rays on a CD they've been unreadable. Anyway, here are a couple of my fav's of Baby Boy Ellsworth!

Mickelson Family Pictures

2009-01-05T14:51:00.007-05:00

A couple days after Christmas the Mickelson family got together and had family pictures. It was cold, but we had a good time especially since there was dinner after! Thank you all for your support and especially for your patience! Here are a couple shots that jumped out as being exceptional.

Mom is going to have this one blown up to 17" X 59"! NICE!

What a cute family!

What'd you say to him, Vaughn?!

Awwhhh...

Father and Son

Good lookin' family!

Silly lookin' family!

April and Blake

There are other shots and I'll get them on CD as soon as I can. Thank you for being patient! Here are a couple from Caroling.

Pope Randy II

Kalvin was very curious about the luminaries and wanted to blow out all the candles.

Who wouldn't love something this adorable?!

Family Pictures!

2008-12-24T14:17:00.004-05:00

With just a few days till Christmas, Duane and I, finally took our "Christmas" pictures. Duane and Kalvin were both great sports as I tested different angles and settings on my camera. What entertained them the most was probably the fact that they were able to see me back and forth for EVERY picture. I'd get the camera settings just how I wanted them, make sure it was on 10 second timer and run over for "Cheese!".

We are blessed to live about a block away from a beautiful park, Desert Breeze. There is a train that rides the circumference of the park, a huge covered playground, a splash pad for Summer and very large pond in the middle of it all.

This time of year is very hard to find a green grass. It's almost like no one wants to take the time to plant winter grass if Winter only lasts a couple months. Desert Breeze's grass was patchy but had some green to it with a few nice spots for pictures.

I think what I love most about this picture is that it was not meant to be taken. I was playing with some settings when I hit the "take the picture" button. How cute!

This tree is awesome! I wonder how many hundreds of years old it is because it's so huge! Around 50 years ago or so one of the branches fell over, but kept growing. What a neat spot for a group!

These last two pictures were taken in Duane's parents backyard.

Kalvin has the typical "cheese" face here.

The Talbotts

2008-11-25T12:03:00.004-05:00

Easton is the cutest little two week old. Marisa and I had a great time working with the Talbotts. They are so in love with their little boy. They brought some festive outfits for Christmas and Fall pictures. When Cortney Talbott called the morning of the scheduled shoot, she let me know that Easton had been awake most the morning (which ment he'd probably be sleepy for the pictures). He was a litte sleepy, but what a trooper with all the outfit changes! Plus, the sleepy pictures turned out really cute!

How precious! Sleep away, Easton.

This is always a cute pose

Easton and Daddy

Love it!

Cortney brought these fall leaves which made for a darling shot.

What a special family!

Mommy and Easton

Breena

2008-11-25T11:52:00.005-05:00

The last couple weeks have been absolutely crazy, but I'm finally getting Breena's picture up! She is a very cute little five week old. Let me share a few of my fav's with you.

Gotta love a few crying ones. She has to be one of the cutest criers!

Love the simplicity, yet adorable little face.

Fairy wings!

Bridget and Robert are two wonderful parents. I was able to see them work together while here. They were so careful with their little Breena and did whatever they could to keep her happy and safe. She was born into a wonderful family.

Courtney and Aaron

2008-10-29T10:51:00.006-04:00

Courtney and Aaron are absolutely in love! What a romantic love story they have. The two met in High School and were very good friends, but soon after he left to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. After two years with no more than being able to write letters to each other, Aaron returned to find that his High School Sweet-Heart was still in love with him, too. On October 25, 2008 Courtney and Aaron were wed in the Mesa, Arizona temple. I and my husband, had the opportunity to capture the spirit of their special day! Here are some of the fav's.

Courtney, gazing into her new husbands eyes during the ring exchange.

A couple of Courtney's very good friends from High School. What an animated group of girls!

Love the shoes!

I saw this mirror and knew I had to get them in it!

A couple of Courtney's bridesmaids in the Brides Room.

As a parent it's sometimes hard to see your baby cry,
but as a photographer it makes for great pictures!

I wish Courtney and Aaron the best of luck and can only image bright paths for their future together.

#2-On it's way!

2008-09-24T15:05:00.006-04:00

Hello All!

Duane and I found out Monday that #2 is on its way! According to an online pregnancy calculator I am due early May and I'm about 8 weeks along. Duane and I are very excited for Kalvin to have a little playmate.

To break the news, we printed this picture and showed the grandparents and some family.
It's ironic that the day after I found out, I started feeling a little queazy. If I didn't know, I probably wouldn't have even noticed feeling sick. It's not really that bad... yet.
When Duane came home from work Monday he brought me a bouquet of beautiful flowers. I love when he brings home flowers!

Kalvin's continued adventures

2008-09-18T13:17:00.012-04:00

Kalvin knows that if he has his shoes on he's allowed to go outside, so he'll frequently bring me his shoes from the closet and sit in front of me. Yesterday morning he did just that, but before we could get outside he found his cowboy boots in my room. He reached for them and I couldn't resist, but take his other shoes off to put these cute boots on him. I took his onesie off, grabbed his matching cowboy hat and my camera, and outside we went.
I tried to let him play and when I saw a perfect picture, I'd call his name so he'd look at me (though sometimes he was too busy to look up at me).
Here are a few of my favorites.

Getting to the other side of the patio, I saw this puddle. Perfect for reflection!

I like the ripples in the water as he's running away to get his hat.

Too cute! I love taking pictures of Kalvin, he's great for the camera!

These other pictures are from a few days ago. After every meal, Kalvin gets a rinse in the kitchen sink. I was watching him have the time of his life and noticed his reflection in the faucet. You can see me in the background, also... hehe.

"Who is this in the faucet looking at me, Myself?"

I love the distortion of his face in the faucet as he looks at himself.

My favorite! He loves sucking the water as it comes out and I caught it just before he put his mouth on it.
We live about five houses down from Desert Breeze park, which is absolutely beautiful! We visit frequently and Kalvin could probably get there himself. Actually, the other evening we were all outside and he kept wanting to walk in the direction of the park. I wonder if that's where he was trying to go... lol. Cute kid!
Anyway, this last weekend, we went to the park because we heard the train was open on the weekends and sure enough it was. I ran back home to grab our camera because, surprisingly, I left home without it.
Kalvin loved the train! He wasn't as excited about the ride, but he loved crawling under the benches, standing on top, and looking over the edge.

He stopped scrambling, to look up at Mom for a split second.

I love how Duane caught the sun behind us.

Loved the light and then wanted to climb on the train.

After the $9.00 train ride, we played on the jungle-gym. Here I caught him blowing kisses just before sliding down.Kalvin is a very fun-loving boy and it is so amazing to witness his growing mind.

A little over a month ago we went to the park and I forgot to post these pics. Kalvin had a lot of fun feeding the ducks. It was scary, but his curiosity often dominates his fears.

The next three pictures are a series of pictures taken right after the other (within 20 seconds).

Duane is helping Kalvin face his fears. His face looks like he thinks they're going to eat him!
But then he laughs after.
I liked this picture of Duane's shadow on the trash can. The duck is cute, too.

Costco Digital Print vs Epson 4800

2008-09-11T20:02:00.005-04:00

Since Angie and I own an Epson 4800 professional inkjet printer, we decided to do a test. We printed out a test print and then had costco print the same unaltered picture. We then compared the prints to what it looks like in Adobe Lightroom and we have a clear winner...

The picture on the left is from Costco, the color looks dead...the grass is more yellow and the skin tones are pasty. This goes to show that it you have nice pictures that you want to preserve and look their best from day one, don't get them done at your local print shop for pennies a print.

This is a test!

2008-08-21T15:43:00.001-04:00

Sry guys, a quick test only.

Show Low... Fun. Beautiful. Rainy. Stuck!

2008-08-17T15:15:00.007-04:00

Duane here:
Angie and I have been in Showlow for two weeks now since I am doing an emergency room rotation at the local hospital. Last night we decided to go to the Movie Gallery to rent a movie, it was a beautiful night and had been raining lightly for a couple hours...Unfortunately, older cars like Geo Prizms don't have antilock brakes and we slid into the back of a truck at about 5mph when someone in front of them couldn't decide if they wanted to turn left or not and never moved over into the center lane. The truck's tailhitch did a number on our hood and radiator, so we can't get very far right now...Maybe Angie will post a picture ;)

Angie's jumping in:
A lot has happened since we got up here a couple weeks ago. I probably wouldn't have noticed how many interesting things we've seen and done, except I've been documenting our time here with the camera.
First, here is the car... the radiator was a little smashed in, so it'll probably only go a couple miles before overheating. Basically, we're stuck up here till someone else can come get us.

Here's Duane assessing the damage the morning after. I'd say there's something wrong with that hood...

I'll have you know, just before the accident we were having a lot of fun downtown at the Family Fun Park! Kalvin had a blast on the toddler bikes and arcades.

The storm is rolling in!

We could hardly wrip Kalvin from the race car arcade!

Who's having more fun here?

Don't mess with Mama!

Here are some from earlier in the day and week.

Watch out for the prickly caterpillar!

Bath time fun!

You can see we're having a good time in Show Low. Now, if we can just figure out a way to get home...

Duane here, just thought I would post to let everyone know I'm real.

2008-08-06T02:58:00.002-04:00

When Angie expressed interest in photography, I jumped right into the internet to find her some equipment. I can't help myself, I love buying gadgets!

Tonto Natural Bridge

2008-08-05T23:13:00.007-04:00

I'm new to blogging, but I'm way excited to get into it! It looks like so much fun!

My family took a trip to Tonto Natural Bridge (ten miles north of Payson) a couple weekends ago and I loved it so much that Duane and I took my sister, Ruth, and her friend, Emily, the next week for a photo shoot. We had a blast!
Everyone wanted to know who these models were and questions like, "What magazine is this for?", "Is it Prom or a Wedding?" and "Is this for REI?". The girls soaked in all the attention and really got into the mood. Check out our fav's.

Replicating the arch.

I love how she blends in.

After an hour of of staying dry (even with a dripping ceiling), the girls went under the misting waterfall and got wet. What great sports!

The only thing that would have made this trip better was to have hiked in water. oops! By the end of the shoot we were all very thirsty... and we still had to make our way back up the winding trail (good thing the trail isn't too long).