f.8 photography

New Blog!!!!

2010-06-22T07:17:00.000-06:00

We are so excited - we have a new blog! This one has been home for 3 years now & has been great but we have moved over to a new improved, snazzy blog which you can find at
www.f8photography.com/blog

All the old posts from this blog have migrated over there as well so nothing is lost - just relocated. Please remember to change your bookmarks to the new location & check it out!

Featured on Weddings in Alberta

2010-06-18T11:43:00.003-06:00

A new wedding website has been launched & some of our fabulous couples have been featured on there - I am so excited & proud. Check it out at the weddings in Alberta website

Rockin' Realtor Portrait

2010-06-08T08:53:00.001-06:00

Elizabeth Lock asked me to do some new updated realtor headshots for her last week. What started out as more traditional headshots at the studio soon evolved into some relaxed & really great shot of Elizabeth. What fun. Thanks for trusting me Elizabeth & letting me take you outside your comfort zone a bit. I think we created some awesome images.

Ridiculously Adorable Rex

2010-06-07T08:43:00.001-06:00

You know when you see a little kid who's too adorable? When everything they do is super cute & when they smile your heart melts a little & you find yourself saying 'aaaahhhh' in a voice a few octaves higher than normal way too many times? Even if they puke or cry it's still stinkin' cute? Rex is that kid. Shannon & Mike are wonderful people & parents & their little king is a reflection of all their best parts poured into a gorgeous little baby boy. Check him out at 7 months old.

Andria & Braidon's Wedding Slideshow

2010-06-03T10:41:00.001-06:00

click here for slideshow

Naughty & Nice Nolan

2010-06-02T08:49:00.004-06:00

4 year old boys can be notoriously difficult to photograph & with Nolan's shoot last week this definitely was the case. One moment he was super sweet - kissing him mom, saying please & thank-you & the next minute he was off running, cranky & un-cooperative. I've been photographing Nolan for years now & as we wandered around the park Shannon & I laughed about his stubborn streak & as she wanted me to, I captured him for just who he is - a wonderful, strong willed, stubborn, loving, sweet 4 year old boy. Enjoy the photos Shannon - you have so much patience & love - you're doing an amazing job!

Andria & Braidon's Juicy Details by Lynn Fletcher Weddings

2010-06-01T14:05:00.008-06:00

‘Miami nightclub’ was the theme of Andria & Braidon’s gorgeous reception at Spruce Meadows & the room was transformed. While the band, ‘Living in Swing’ was playing in the background guests were swept away enjoying delicious appys & candy liquor drinks. Crazy pinks, green, purple, turquoise set over black accentuated with butterflies & feathers adorned the room. The color slowly changed in the room as it was illuminated behind floor to ceiling translucent drapes from blue to green to pink to purple providing amazing ambiance. The custom designed crocked wedding cake was a feature - as was the monogrammed ice luge for martinis. Though we were only there to take photos for a short time the events of the evening included Chilean & burlesque dancers & more live music along with the traditional first dance & cake cutting. Lynn Fletcher from Lynn Fletcher Weddings was the master planner behind all this & wow - I know it was a night to remember for everyone who was there!

Nancy & Jeff e-session

2010-05-31T09:36:00.004-06:00

I have been waiting to shoot an e-session with these guys for over a year and last holiday Monday we finally got together down at Fish Creek park. Nancy & Jeff were super laid back and really seemed to have a great time just being together.As you can see from these awesome shots, they were all smiles and laughter and very affectionate.

Andria & Braidon's Wedding

2010-05-28T08:07:00.010-06:00

When Andria told me her wedding was going to be really colorful I knew we were in for a treat. Then I saw her stunning blinged out flowers & shoes I totally fell in love with her style & passion for life. Braidon is so caring & genuine & obviously in love with his gorgeous bride - their day was simply beautiful in every way. The weather held out for us (even though it was supposed to pour) and surrounded by their family & friends it was a long awaited dream come true for this wonderful couple.

why so emotional?

2010-05-27T08:46:00.001-06:00

I loved this series of images Matt captured from the wedding we shot last weekend. The brides face as she walked into her reception & saw for the first time the amazing decor by Lynn Fletcher Weddings...what better response could you want than this?
Check back in the next few days for much more from Andria & Braidon's wedding & all the beautiful details.

Lynn & Rebecca from Lynn Fletcher weddings

Forsythe Family

2010-05-19T08:45:00.000-06:00

Sandie & Tye are the very busy parents of 3 adorable kids. Ella (6) & Isobelle (3.5), the 2 sisters, were so sweet & happy to share their smiles with me (they also have 2 of my favorite names ever!). Little Brandon, only 2 months old was happiest when he was in mommy's arms, or naked on some black velvet for a few shots. Bob & Wanda, the proud grandparents, got in on a few photos as well & it was lovely to see the whole family relaxed & comfortable, hanging out on a beautiful Spring day. Enjoy the photos guys.

Her Morning Elegance / Oren Lavie

2010-05-17T20:47:00.002-06:00

I know this has been circulating the internet for awhile - but again - something so magical about this video....happy Monday!

Nicole & Martin's slideshow

2010-05-13T08:54:00.000-06:00

click here for slideshow

Nicole & Martin's Wedding

2010-05-10T12:36:00.015-06:00

Nicole & Martin were our first wedding of the year & it was fabulous! Beautiful bride, good looking groom, wicked wedding party, wonderful weather & cool locations - what more could we ask for? Nicole was totally relaxed, gorgeous & happy while Martin was attentive, caring & having fun. Both these guys were comfortable in front of the camera & very comfortable with each other & the images are a beautiful insight into their love. Enjoy your honey moon in Thailand & Bali guys - I hope these photos bring back wonderful memories of the day.

Sydney's 1st birthday & trash the cake!

2010-05-06T12:32:00.000-06:00

Another fun shoot with the Rambran-Flacks! I am loving watching these guys grow as we're in year 3 of family photos. Big brother Isaiah was full of smiles & energy & 1 year old Sydney - the fashion girl - is even more adorable with each passing day. Noelle is expecting her 3rd in July (!) & I don't know where she gets the energy (& the patience) and still looks gorgeous while doing it. Good thing Bryan is by her side, solid as a rock & his love for his family is so obvious - you can feel it just by being around these guys. Thanks for letting me document your lives & your love, it's a true pleasure. Enjoy the photos :)

"Days Go by"- Dirty Vegas

2010-05-05T10:25:00.002-06:00

Something about this is just so beautiful - had to share. Enjoy. "Days Go by"- Dirty Vegas

andria & braidon e-session

2010-05-04T14:32:00.017-06:00

Hi everyone, Matt here, I have been waiting soooo long for the weather to improve so that I can start shooting again! After having to cancel because of a blizzard, Andria & Braidon met up with me at their favorite dog park with the two little loves of their lives. After a quick stroll around the park we headed over to a more urban location to shoot just the two of them. They were both pretty nervous, but quickly warmed up to the camera resulting in some sweet images. After this warm up shoot we are looking forward even more to your wedding later this month.

The happy dance!

2010-04-26T09:24:00.007-06:00

A friend of ours (Brandon - proud daddy of Thai) recorded this little clip on the weekend in our kitchen using his iphone and the Slowmo App (in fast forward). It makes me smile every time I watch it. Hope it makes you smile too!

Welcome Thai Fredrick Harris

2010-04-20T12:50:00.009-06:00

Marcia & Brandon are very proud parents of a new little boy Thai. What an unusual name you might say & it's true. Both Marc & Brandon love Thailand (& have travelled there several times) & were in the process of adopting a baby from Thailand when Marc found out she was pregnant - hence the name. At 2 weeks old Thai was terrific to shoot, alternating between sleeping, feeding & some minor fussing he was totally adorable. Congrats guys, I am so happy to see your family grow from 2 to 3 & to share your proud smiles.

Happy Heffernan's

2010-04-01T12:16:00.000-06:00

When I first met Ina & Steven at Natalie & Joe's wedding back in October they had an almost 2 year old boy & Ina looked like she was going to give birth any second. They are the proud parents of 2 beautiful boys; Max - 2 months old & big brother Ben, now 2. Ina asked me to capture some fun shots of Ben's personality & Max's darling little newborn stage, though he did seem more like a 4 or 5 months with the amount of hair & his size! It was a fun shoot & so nice to have this lovely little family in front of my lens - enjoy the photos guys!

The Viczko Family& Sloane's smash the cake

2010-03-24T12:52:00.002-06:00

I have enjoyed shooting the Viczko family for just over a year now through Shannon's pregnancy to their youngest daughter Sloane's 1st birthday. Each shoot has been super fun & filled with energetic kids - each with their own personality. Big sister Leora (6) loves the camera & dotes on her younger siblings, always trying to help out & such a sweety. 3 year old Joe was a bit of a challenge to photograph at the beginning of the year - NOT liking the camera at all & just generally avoiding being in any photos & if he was - it was with a scowl. I think my persistence has worn him down because at this last shoot he wouldn't get out of the shots! He loved looking through the camera with me & was cranky when I wasn't focusing on him. Little Sloane has been a great subject through her newborn & 6 month shots - but 1 year old...NO way. She's gotten some Independence & personality over the last year & does not like the camera or to be directed at all. When it came to the smash the cake portion she was hesitant to do any smashing but loved eating it! The whole family is wonderful & always such a pleasure to photograph & share a few smiles with. Thanks!

Fabulous Favour

2010-03-18T09:01:00.003-06:00

15 year old Favour needed some head shots for her acting portfolio & I was only too happy to oblige! We got together at the studio under her mom's watchful & supportive approval captured some beautiful photos. She has the most beautiful smile & is simply stunning - also a sweetie to boot. Good luck Favour - I know you'll do well.

Happy St. Patrick's!

2010-03-17T14:45:00.001-06:00

Hope you're all feeling lucky today & wearing green!

Rex & Co.

2010-03-10T09:00:00.004-07:00

Little Rex has been getting around! I first photographed him when he was just newborn & then with his mom Shannon's side of the family. Now dad's side of the family (the Macleod's) wanted photos of their first & only grandchild so he was once again the star of the show. Luckily he's a pretty easy going photogenic little dude :)

Here he is with the family;

With his happy grandparents;

The 3 generations;

Uncle Jeff;

mom & dad;

The Macleod's;

The brothers;

and the superstar himself;

The beautiful girls

2010-03-02T09:25:00.000-07:00

I am extremely biased but I have the most beautiful kids around! I took advantage while setting up for a family shoot at the studio last week to capture a few quick shots of Molly & Ellie. Molls wasn't feeling that great & Ellie was her usual colorful self. This is what 5.5 & 7.5 looks like to me:

Marcia's Marvellous Belly

2010-02-26T08:54:00.003-07:00

Marcia is one of the most beautiful people I have ever met both on the outside & on the inside. She is generous, thoughtful, supportive, funny, direct & considerate. Being an artist, she is also incredibly creative & stylish. We have know each other for more than 15 years & the only thing missing from her & Brandon's happy life for the last few years has been a baby. After several years of trying Marc & Brandon had begun the adoption process & before long - Marc was expecting. She is due in 5 short weeks & I couldn't be more excited for them both. The final element will be in place in their happy lives & I can't wait to see them in the new role of parents.
Brandon & Marc's place has many cool elements that were super fun to incorporate into the shoot. I also got to play with my new Totally Rad Actions - love the results.

Terrific Tuer Clan

2010-02-24T09:23:00.004-07:00

Through the years I have captured weddings, pregnancies, newborn baby shots & family portraits of the Tuer family. It was great to see everyone in the same place for a wonderful family shoot.

We have the whole crew;

The immediate family:

The grandkids:

The siblings:

The individual families;

And the people who started it all - Linda & David.....

Thanks for making us feel like part of the family guys - your house & hospitality are simply fabulous - enjoy the photos!

Gorgenyi Family

2010-02-22T11:06:00.008-07:00

Capturing the Gorgenyi family is always a pleasure & the kids just keep getting cuter & cuter as time goes on. We did a shoot last week at the studio & I was excited to incorporate a new prop we bought for the shoot - a lime green kid size chaise! 3 year old Ava, the little lady, is so sweet while 6 month old sister Kayla is totally adorable & very loved by her big sister. Dave & Kim just keep getting better together as their family grows & as friends & clients we are so happy to be a part of their lives. xoxoxo enjoy the photos guys!

Ben - the very busy boy!

2010-02-10T09:13:00.005-07:00

Photographing 2 year old Ben was such a great way to spend Monday morning. He's like most boys his age - non-stop. He played cars, jumped on the bed, had a snack, made some (fake) fruit salad, played with Elmo, ran around the house & did an ABC puzzle - all in the span of an hour while I captured him just being himself (& a few with mom, Allison as well). I love my job so much when I just get to have fun. Enjoy the photos of your busy little boy.

The Mystery Wedding

2010-02-08T13:35:00.006-07:00

So, in the summer you may remember we had an engagement session for a 'mystery couple', 2 very private people who did not want their images on the internet. After we shot their wedding last summer I didn't post anything from their very lovely wedding (as they requested) but recently reviewing their images I found a few detail shots I could post without identifying anyone. These images make me wish the dreary cold winter days were over & we could be back into the beautiful summery sunshine. Hope they brighten your day a bit!

Happy Hillas'

2010-02-01T12:36:00.006-07:00

Little Maxwell is 1! I can't believe it's already been a year since I took his newborn photos & now he's grown into quite the little character. He's definitely a mommies boy & not too sure about me taking photos but I managed to get some great shots of this very happy little family. Both Amanda & Jesse are teachers & you can definitely see how much they love kids & especially their beautiful boy (of course). Enjoy the photos & Happy Birthday Max!

Table Talk - Charmaine's Paris Memories

2010-01-29T09:06:00.000-07:00

Charmaine Walls
Table Talk
charmaine@tabletalk.net
403-312-3505
403-541-1077

Haute Wedding Design - 'I love you snow much'

2010-01-28T08:48:00.005-07:00

Lisa is part of Table Talk's sister company - Haute Wedding Designs

Lisa Genest
Haute Wedding Designs
lisa@hauteweddingdesign.com
403-519-7138

FAQ - How to start in a photography career?

2010-01-27T08:34:00.000-07:00

We've had this question a few times so I thought I'd share some info. about our background in photography & how some ideas of to get started in a career in photography.

That's cool you are planning on pursuing photography. It's a wonderful job - you may be thinking.... 'point-shoot- how hard is it?' This is literally what Matt said to me the first night we met & I told him I was a photographer. Luckily he has a charming Aussie accent & was pretty cute so the evening progressed :) My education has spanned many years & sources & continues everyday. I have a degree in Fine Arts with a major in photography (BFA) from U of C - you can also take a program at ACAD or courses at SAIT. After my degree I assisted for years for various different types of photographers (food, architecture, lifestyle & stock, commercial & weddings) trying to figure out which aspect of photography I wanted to focus on. I eventually become a studio manager of a commercial photography studio for 2 years, which taught be a lot about the business of photography & the proper way of quoting for jobs, pricing & the overhead of running a business. I learned more from assisting other photographers than I did in any courses - though having the education was what got me the jobs in the 1st place. I also took night classes in Photoshop as that area is constantly evolving & a now huge part of being a photographer. We attend seminars every year put on by photographers we respect & have travelled in Canada & the US to learn about the constantly changing art & technology of photography.

Matt approached photography completely differently. He has taken no formal training or courses in photography & was literally thrown into it after we met. He spent a few years carrying around gear & learning what, when & how to capture images. With shooting weddings you have to be prepared for every & anything & have back up plans A, B & C. As his familiarity with equipment, lighting & composition grew he began shooting. It was a few years after assisting me that he felt knowledge enough & comfortable shooting on his own. With photography you need to be confident that no matter what the weather, timelines, lighting & situation is, you can deal with it & get the shot. With weddings there are no do-overs - you have to get it right no matter what the situation or obstacles. Throughout these years Matt also had a full time job so we could pay the mortgage & eat :) It was in Sept. of 2007 that he quit his job & committed his skills & talents to f.8 photography full time so we could operate the photography business together. It was getting to be way to much for me to run the business on my own while raising 2 kids & having a husband who's energy & time was being drained at a dead end day job.

Photography has been an exhilarating, terrifying, joyful, expensive & rewarding career. I do it because I love it & when I got my first film camera at 19 years old I knew it was what I was meant to do. It is not an easy career choice & it can take years before you make any money - thats why for most people it's a hobby & they do it for the love of photography, not the money. If you're interested in photography it's a great start to read your camera's manual, take your camera off auto - set it to manual & learn how to use it properly. Shoot lots - shoot everything & practice, practice, practice until the shots you are seeing in your mind & trying to create are what you are able to capture in camera. Take some photography courses & find someone to learn from who's work you love & inspires you. Attend seminars or even take an online photography course (I have heard through the grapevine that this is possible, though haven't tried it myself).

I can only tell you what worked for me & for Matt - ask other photographers as well - they may have gone down different paths - but there's no quick route to success if you're serious about being a photographer. It takes a lot of passion, patience & constant progression - the technology is always changing & there's lots of competition out there, determination is key.

I hope this helps if you're thinking of starting a career in photography. Matt & I have been exploring the idea of doing a 1 or 2 day seminar on photography - would anyone be interested in attending something like that at the studio? We're just in the very begining stages of exploring it & would love to see if there's any interest out there for it. Please let us know.

Have a great day & good luck!

* The photo is a snap shot a friend of ours took of Matt & I while we were shooting a wedding on Eagle Eye mountain in Golden BC. We do love our jobs!

Table Talk - Melissa's Miami Chic

2010-01-26T08:58:00.005-07:00

Melisa Vandenberg
Table Talk
Melisa@tabletalk.net
403-888-5827
403-541-1077

Table Talk - Katrina's Rustic Romance

2010-01-25T09:00:00.002-07:00

A few weeks a go the ladies of Table Talk asked me to photograph some new table designs - lots of details. Of course, I was thrilled. Table Talk does an amazing job of wedding planning & decor & I love to capture all the artistic little details at weddings. It's exciting to see what creative magic has been inspired by the couples that are getting married. There were 4 separate designers & tables so I will blog 1 at a time so you can fully appreciate what each of these ladies can do!

Rustic Romance by Katrina Kiegelmann:

Katrina@tabletalk.net
Table Talk
403-312-3506
403-541-1077

Wedding Fair booth

2010-01-23T17:45:00.005-07:00

I took a few shots with the iphone (not that great of quality with the Round up centre lighting) a sneak-peek of our fab booth. Come by & say 'hi' tomorrow.

Website Updates & Bridal Fair

2010-01-21T10:00:00.008-07:00

So, in preparation for the big Wedding Fair this weekend I have updated our website! Chances are if we've shot your wedding or engagement session this last year you are now on our website. Take a few minutes to check it out & let us know what you think.
The fabulous Wedding Fair is this Sunday Jan. 24! from 9:30 - 5:30 at the Round Up Centre - stop by & say 'hi' - we're in booth 106. I'll try to post a few images after we set up on Sat.....it's going to look great.

And just because posts are better with an image...

p.s. I will be working on updating the portrait side of the website in the next few weeks :)

Realtor Portrait - Shannon

2010-01-19T09:33:00.004-07:00

Shannon asked me to take some realtor head shots for her last week (something a little non-traditional) & I was only too happy to oblige. I've been shooting Shannon for years now in life's big moments & it is always a pleasure to capture her smile once again. Check it out:

The b-sessions

2010-01-12T09:00:00.003-07:00

There's a new area of photography that I am very excited in pursuing but it's sensitive material & people are very selective which images are shown on the blog...understandably. Boudoir photography (b-session). I know, sounds terrifying, but my experience in shooting these has been really positive & amazing. For the ladies it's very empowering to have a boudoir shoot & such an incredible gift/memento/record to give as a gift to your fiancee, boyfriend, husband - or just do it for yourself.
As a special promotion for the month of January & through until Feb.5 I am offering $50 off any b-session* (* booked during a weekday) & it's just in time for surprising someone special for Valentines Day....
Here's an e-mail I received from a very happy client after her b-session.

Hi Trish,

The book looks great! I am so pleased with how everything worked out. You did such an amazing job with the whole project and I can't wait to share it with my husband - since that's what this whole thing was about in the first place :) I can't believe that just a few pictures can completely change how you look at yourself and I'm so glad I decided to do this for myself as it has really helped my self confidence.

I will definitely recommend your services to all of my family and friends - you are so amazing at what you do!

Thanks again so much for everything you have done!

These are just a few images that she felt comfortable sharing on the internet. We'll keep it classy not trashy - so don't be shy, book a b-session - it'll be fun, I promise....

Grayson is Great

2010-01-11T15:38:00.008-07:00

Little Grayson was 2 months old when I came to shoot his newborn photos last week. Usually this can be a tricky age but Grayson truly was great. He was mellow & easy going - just like his mom & dad. Chris & Baillie were like most first time parents - so happy & totally captivated by their little boy, it's so wonderful for me to be a part of capturing these moments in people's lives. Thanks for sharing him guys - he's amazing.

Marvelous McKennas

2010-01-05T14:20:00.007-07:00

The McKennas are some of our closest friends & best people we know. When Kiley's parents were in town from New Brunswick for the holidays they asked me to capture the whole family, I was honored. Maggie & Zoe are the only grand kids on either side of the family & their grandparents, Bernie & Jessie, just adore them - who could resist these gorgeous girls? Photos with grandparents are so important & invaluable to all generations.
We had a super fun shoot & my favorite shots were the last few outside in the winter sun.
Enjoy the photos guys!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-22T17:18:00.003-07:00

We will be closed for the holidays from Dec. 23 through Jan.4th.
Happy Holidays & we'll see you in the New Year!
xoxoxox trish & matt

Lovely Lavalee Family

2009-12-16T13:36:00.006-07:00

Craig & Jennifer have their hands full with 3 kids 5 & under. Nathan (5) & Cale (3) love playing hockey & roughhousing around while little Marin, only 2 moths old, is a total momma's girl & didn't like being out of Jennifers arms for more than a minute. We shot Craig & Jennifer's wedding back in 2003 & I love seeing couples go from newly married to parenthood & the happiness that comes with sharing a life together. Thanks for sharing a little piece with me. Enjoy your photos.

Happy Hollsteins

2009-12-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

Two sisters Callie (9) & Torri (7) could be twins but they most definitely are not, they'll be the first to tell you. They are both very happy girls & loved having their photos taken - especially when mom gave the ok to jump on the bed. Gayle & Kelly obviously adore their daughters & the whole family was even brave enough to head out side in a snowstorm for the last shot in the hot tub - I don't think any of us realized how nasty it actually was outside! Thanks for a fun shoot guys - enjoy the photos.

Rost Family

2009-12-10T08:27:00.003-07:00

Having 4 kids is a tough thing to handle I imagine. Having 2 of them 18 months old twins would be near impossible. Somehow Amy & David do it with smiles & patience. 12 year old big brother Brendan is a huge help & 4 year old Caitlyn is so sweet & the family just works together. We did this shoot last week at the studio & I brought along both my daughters Molly (7) & Ella (5) to help with keeping all the kids entertained, but I think they had more fun playing & making new friends between shots, which was equally helpful. David & Amy, I have so much respect for you guys - you're doing a wonderful job. Enjoy the photos.

Kaitlin's Trash-the-Cake

2009-12-08T12:37:00.008-07:00

I have been capturing Nicole, Joey & Kaitlin for several years now & when it came time for Kaitlin's 1st birthday shoot & trash-the-cake I was so excited. Kaitlin was great during the family portraits & my helper, Ella (my 5 year old daughter - who insists on coming to all trash-the-cake sessions - for quality control, of course) kept her smiling. Nicole baked a super adorable giraffe cake & Kaitlin totally went for it. She LOVED getting into the cake & wasn't hesitant at all, most kids take a little convincing that it is ok to goop right in. Enjoy the photos guys - so much fun!

Cool Connor

2009-12-07T16:38:00.008-07:00

Jeremy & Krista are big hockey fans which means little Connor is following in their footsteps & looking so cute in his tiny jersey. At 2 months old he was not so interested in smiling for photos but loving the snuggles with mom & dad & cuddling with his stuffed monkeys. Enjoy the images guys - this stage won't last long.

Flack Family Four

2009-12-02T09:12:00.001-07:00

It is always fun to capture the Flack family & since little Sydney's newborn shoot she's not so little anymore. She's a super roly-poly adorable 7 month old & just adores her big brother Isaiah. Noelle & Brian are doting parents & there's always smiles & cuddles going on over at the Flack house. Thanks for another lovely family shoot guys - keep up the great work ;)

Love Sydney's dimples in this shot! Too cute.

Art Opening - Nov.20, 2009

2009-11-18T09:42:00.003-07:00

The annual show is on again - I won't be there but there'll be some great art & it's always a good time. Pop by if you can.

Well-Loved Logan

2009-11-13T09:54:00.002-07:00

1 year old Logan is extremely cute & though he can't quite walk yet the kid does not sit still. Once again I am reminded how busy little boys are & how wonderfully patient parents are at this age. Giselle & Jeremy were excellent. We tried everything to entice Logan to smile, look at the camera & co-operate - even my 5 year old daughter Ella came along to help but Logan is a free spirit & was busy entertaining himself. Thanks for a fun shoot guys, enjoy the photos of your beautiful little boy!

Cutey Kara

2009-11-12T09:08:00.000-07:00

Sheila & Neil welcomed their darling daughter Kara into their family about 3 months ago (just a few hours after buying a new house!) & they are just thrilled. Kara is adorable & such a good little girl, very happy for most of the shoot until the end when she'd had enough & needed some snuggling to settle down. The new little family is now in their new house & I couldn't be happier for them, I look forward to capturing them as Kara keeps getting cuter & cuter.

We're Away.....Off to Mexico

2009-11-11T10:27:00.001-07:00

We're off to Mexico for a family vacation! Horray! Our studio will be closed on Nov. 11 & re-opening Nov. 30th. There will be a few posts while we are away however we will be un-plugged during our trip so please e-mail us when we're back in the country at the end of November.
Remember Christmas is fast approaching & there's still time to book in for a family portrait before then. Let us know if you're interested & we'll set it up!
Have a great few weeks, we'll have a pina colada for you all :)

Some excited girls for you - the beautiful Molly

& Ella

Carter's Trash the Cake

2009-11-11T10:07:00.004-07:00

Carter is 1! Wow - this year has flown by & I was happy to reconnect with Josh & Melissa to capture their busy little boy for a family portrait & a trash the cake session. Carter is super cute & VERY interested in everything - he didn't sit still for more than a second at any given moment & I was reminded of how much energy is needed to keep up with kids this age. Josh & Melissa are up to the task & it was fun to spend an hour capturing this energetic little family again. Love the cake shots too :)

Baille's Big Belly

2009-11-10T21:16:00.005-07:00

Baillie is a beautiful girl with a very big beautiful belly. Baille & Chris are expecting a little boy (their 1st baby) in a few weeks & she is ready. The rooms all prepared, daddy's got time off work & mom is ready to get this little guy out to meet him. Good luck guys - can't wait to see him when he arrives!
p.s. Update - little Grayson arrived before these photos were posted - congrats Baille & Chris - I look forward to capturing the little guy when we return from Mexico!

Kirsten & Dave's RUSH Wedding

2009-11-09T08:55:00.001-07:00

No, they didn't get married in a rush, they've been together forever - over 11 years, but they did get married at RUSH Restaurant here in Calgary & in a very short time line for photography. They are good at planning - their getting ready location, ceremony, photo locations & their reception were all within a 2 block radius - how nice. Kirsten & Dave were great to work with, after about 5 minutes they both relaxed & just enjoyed being hanging out with each other, it's as easy as that & look what we captured. Enjoy!

George & Co.

2009-11-05T09:26:00.002-07:00

This is the 4th year I've gotten together with the Boyce family to capture their son George as he grows. 6.5 is a fun, energetic & a bit of a goofy age which makes shooting interesting & fast paced. Gillian & Larry adore their son & are continually laughing, tickling, teasing & enjoying his antics. Thanks for another memorable shoot guys - I love capturing your family each year - enjoy the photos!

Rex the little King

2009-11-04T09:21:00.000-07:00

I LOVE to shoot newborn babies. The excitement, exhaustion, amazement & pride on the new parents faces is such an incredible thing to be a part of. Shannon & Mike definitely felt all those emotions as I captured their beautiful little boy, Rex. At 1 week old he had more hair than many 1 year olds I've photographed & had been gaining weight since the day he was born, & so cute! I always feel that as your family grows so does your love, especially for your partner as you see them in a whole new role as parent. Shannon & Mike are friends of ours and it's wonderful to keep witnessing their love grow, it's a thing of beauty - just like their little king, Rex.

ps. The huge M in the image below stands for their last name :)

Wells Portrait

2009-11-03T09:03:00.003-07:00

Jasmine called us wanting to book a session with her family as a gift for mothers day. Moms only request was that we had some photos by the water which, at this time of year, is pretty chilly. No problem! The whole family trudged through the snow and we captured some awesome images down by the river on a brisk October afternoon. Although Mom was a little nervous, I am thrilled with the great shots we captured together. Nice work guys!

Fabulous Fehres Family

2009-11-02T11:07:00.001-07:00

Axel & Natalie are fabulous parents. You can see it as soon as you walk into their home - the Halloween decorations were out, play areas set up everywhere & a whole room for the kids trains, toys & games! They are all about the kids & spending time together as a family & it shows. The 2 super cute little boys Liam & Avery were typical brothers wrestling & playing & loving/fighting each other hard. Photos were not high on their list of favorite things to do but they co-operated as much as possible when you're 4.5 & 2.5.
I met Axel about 17 years ago & we have just recently had the pleasure of reconnecting for this photoshoot. It was wonderful to see him & Natalie happily in the roles of parents & having fun with their boys. Thanks for sharing your wonderful family guys - enjoy the photos.

Natalie & Joe's Slideshow

2009-10-30T08:51:00.003-06:00

click here for slideshow

Natalie & Joe's Wedding

2009-10-29T08:32:00.005-06:00

To say that Joe adores Natalie would be an understatement. Natalie & Joe share an old fashioned kind of love. The romantic, think about each other before yourself kind of love. The kind where Joe would run out in the snow without a coat to get Natalie's sweater from the car because she's cold - before she even asks kind of love. Being near Natalie & Joe is a true pleasure, they can't get close enough to each other or say 'I love you ' enough times in a day to truly express how deeply they care for each other. It is the kind of love that people are drawn to to. It's the kind of love that started with their parents (Natalie's parents have been happily married for 37 & Joe's 48 years!) & it will continue when little Natalie & Joes start arriving.
These 2 had a huge wedding party - 20 people! - so it was a bit chaotic to shoot them all but a totally fun crew. The day was very chilly & overcast & even a few flurries were flying but Natalie was an absolute trooper - never complained once. She was glowing with happiness & with Joe by her side I can't see that ever changing. Congrats guys - we are so happy for you both!

I love this shot I captured as they headed up to their room for a few minutes alone with some champagne & strawberries Joe arranged for them - so sweet!

Michelle & Andrew's Slideshow

2009-10-28T13:08:00.004-06:00

click here for slideshow

Michelle & Andrew's Wedding

2009-10-27T09:18:00.003-06:00

Michelle & Andrew wanted to do something a little different for their wedding...so they decided to get married on the S.S. Moyie boat on a sunset champagne cruise at Heritage Park. It was a beautiful warm sunny September day...until we set sail. Luckily we had done the majority of the photos prior. As the ceremony started the wind picked up (howling actually) & the clouds rolled in dark & turbulent. As the guests sat shivering, the groom joked 'This isn't a sign of our marriage' there was a warm feeling spread among the crowd as everyone laughed.
Andrew & Michelle are self-professed geeks & both love Star Wars, Star Trek, Simpsons & Guitar Hero, they have a wicked sense of humor together & smile at each other as if they're always sharing a private joke. I think Andrew summed it up best as he toasted his new bride with ' It wouldn't be our wedding if I didn't say 'You are as beautiful as Princess Leia & as smart as Yoda'. (It is taken from the Simpsons - Homer says it to Marge).
Congrats guys, hope you share many, many years of laughter & love.

Darling Danika

2009-10-26T09:04:00.001-06:00

6 month old Danika has a wonderful collection of headbands which were so much fun to shoot. She wasn't a very smiley girl on photo day but very content & curious. Candi & Sean are totally in love with their beautiful daughter & it shows. Danika had a rough start when she was born (open heart surgery!) but is now the same as any other happy healthy curious 6 month old little girl. She is absolutely perfect just the way she is. I love how cute she is when she sticks out her tongue :)

Pam & David's Slideshow

2009-10-23T16:07:00.000-06:00

click here for slideshow

Pam & David's Banff Wedding

2009-10-22T08:57:00.005-06:00

Pam & David were married in beautiful Banff on Sept. 6, 2009 & it was nothing short of amazing. Both David & Pam are 'avoid-the-spotlight' kind of people & definitely not comfortable being in front of the camera & the focus of everyone's attention. Pam kept looking at me & laughing as if to say 'can you believe this is me? It's me wearing this fancy white dress & getting married? really?' As the day went on they began to relax & enjoy themselves & their wonderful personalities & close connection was revealed. I am so amazed at what we captured with these 2 private people. The whole day was a reflection of the couple - understated & elegant. There were a lot of great details from the reception - co-ordinated by Yvette & Darren at Avant Garde Events so check back for the slideshow.
Pam & David you guys are great - thanks for trusting us & letting us capture 'you'. Enjoy the photos!

Cindy & Paul's Wedding Slideshow

2009-10-21T08:19:00.003-06:00

click here for slideshow

Cindy & Paul's Wedding

2009-10-20T07:50:00.000-06:00

I know Cindy has been very eagerly anticipating this post so I am so happy to finally have finished their gorgeous wedding & able to post it (I hope it's everything you've imagined & more!).
Cindy & Paul are the kind of couple who smile easily & laugh often. They enjoy delicious food, quality bed linens & good time with friends & they laugh a lot - did I mention that? Paul's very quirky sense of humor, many crazy expressions & high energy are perfectly balanced by Cindy's solid, warm, serious side - she's always laughing & shaking her head at Paul. In many ways they're the ying & yang of each other, in many ways they're like 2 pieces of a puzzle that fit together seamlessly. Paul has a love of converse shoes & that was his gift to his groomsmen to wear on the wedding day - Cindy was all about the details, lovely centerpieces of fresh herbs at the reception, her grandmother's broach on her bouquet, custom made bridesmaids dresses & my favorite detail - her wedding dress - it had pockets! How cool is that? Guys, you are 2 of the coolest people ever, we are so deeply honored to have been the ones to capture you wedding day & your unique personalities, enjoy the photos...the wait is over!
ps. check back & view the slideshow in a few days to check out so many more details & great shots from the wedding...

Jennifer & Curtis's Slideshow

2009-10-19T13:08:00.003-06:00

click here for slideshow

Stellar Sloane at 7 months

2009-10-17T08:53:00.000-06:00

It was so much fun to see the Kary family again & see how big little Sloane has grown in the last 7 months! Her big blue eyes & roly-poly thighs are so delicious! Big brother Joe (3) was as thrilled as ever to participate in the photos (not!) & Leora (6) is still the doting beautiful photogenic big sister. I love shooting at the Kary's - each time I've been there Shannon has changed the decor in some way & it all feels new again - so much fun. Thanks for another great shoot guys - enjoy the photos.

Christmas Orders for Graphi Album Deadline

2009-10-16T09:45:00.001-06:00

To all our lovely clients...

The deadline to get your custom designed Graphi Albums from Italy - guaranteed to arrive by Christmas - all revisions & orders must be done by :

Halloween - October 31, 2009

You can still order albums after that but it is not guaranteed to get here by Christmas. The online gallery is always open so you can order prints, canvases, enlargements, mugs, aprons etc. etc. anytime & the turnaround is much shorter than coming from Italy!

And because blogs are so much nicer with an image:

Jennifer & Curtis's Mountain Wedding

2009-10-15T09:03:00.002-06:00

Do you ever wonder?....... That was the e-mail Curtis received from Jennifer. It was enough to make Curtis' world stop for a second until he quickly replied YES!
They had been apart for 6 years after being inseparable as high school sweethearts, keeping in contact but busy pursuing different lives in different cities. They wasted no more time after that e-mail & a gorgeous little baby & a wedding later these 2 soulmates made it all official in front of a group of family & friends at the RimRock in picturesque Banff. Jennifer & Curtis, you have wonderful families, wonderful friends & a wonderful life in store. Enjoy the photos.

Kristella & Tung Wedding Slideshow

2009-10-14T09:50:00.001-06:00

click here for slideshow

Kristella & Tung Wedding

2009-10-12T09:26:00.001-06:00

Kristella & Tung share an amazing confident, strong love. They are not showy or goofy, but quiet & secure, smiling often at each other throughout the day. They also both have a strong sense of style & no detail was overlooked as Kristella's vision for the wedding day unfolded (literally). She spent months folding over 1000 oragami cranes for the reception decorations - which is also said to bring good luck & the effect was magnificent. We chose several unusual locations for these guys as they are a very urban couple & we wanted to portray that with their images. Mission accomplished. Enjoy your images guys - we hope they bring you much joy & a lifetime of memories.

Tiffany & Jamie Slideshow

2009-10-09T08:15:00.002-06:00

click here for slideshow

Tiffany & Jamie trash the dress

2009-10-08T09:07:00.000-06:00

Tiffany was so excited to destroy her wedding dress in an very unusual way at the end of the day & it was amazing to capture. Thanks for being so adventurous Tiffany. Too much fun!

Alicia & Patrick e-session

2009-10-07T09:25:00.002-06:00

Alicia & Patrick meet up with me on a blustery day at Indigo, one of their favorite hangouts in Westhills. I must admit that I had never shot an e-session at a book store before but it turned out to be a lot of fun especially since it has a little boat in the kids section to play around with! Afterwards we ventured out into the wind and captured some awesome images around the back of the building (loved it!). Although both Alicia and Patrick were super nervous at first, they warmed up to the camera quickly and Alicia started to show her beautiful smile that lit up her whole face (don't worry Mr. Cool, you did great too!) Thanks for a great shoot guys, check these out!

Tiffany & Jamie Wedding

2009-10-06T08:51:00.004-06:00

Tiffany & Jamie decided to have their wedding EXACTLY how they wanted to. A quiet, tear filled intimate ceremony in a friends backyard in front of their 2 best friends as witnesses. That was it. The rest of the day was devoted to photography & enjoying the day together. It was a dream come true for Matt & I & we spent a relaxing, fun, laughter filled afternoon cruising around to several unique locations & capturing this amazing couple.
We are so honored to have spent such an important, intimate day with you guys & just being so close to the love, trust & enjoyment you two share was a real pleasure. Thank-you so much for trusting & inspiring us...enjoy the photos!

ps. Tiffany & Jamie did a colorful trash-the-dress session (horray!) as well, so I will blog that separately in the next few days.

Melissa & Jesse's Slideshow

2009-10-05T10:12:00.000-06:00

click here for slideshow

Trash the Dress

2009-10-02T09:54:00.003-06:00

Jesse & Melissa had a great crew & we were so excited when they all agreed to jump into the pool for a shoot the morning after the wedding. Love the images that came from it!

There's something dreamy about this image that I just LOVE!

Thanks guys! You rock!

The Wedding Planner Decor

2009-09-30T11:06:00.001-06:00

As promised...the amazing work of Lisa Hanslip from The Wedding Planner for Jesse & Melissa's wedding;