It's official!

The 2023 holiday sets are complete!

Check out the sets here! Many photos below!

For pricing, scroll to the bottom of this blog.

Our Christmas season in the studio will begin in just over a month! Each year I post a blog in September with the final sets so that my clients can see what they look like before purchasing their outfits for Christmas photos. Below are the choices for this year! I am very excited about every one! We have a few new ones, a few repeat faves from last year too! If you are ready to schedule your session reach out to me now! Email me at [email protected] or click here

SET 1

This set is an antique couch with my non-traditional take on red/green decor. I love the vintage look of this, and the images you see below have been taken before the set is actually 100% complete. By the time our holiday season starts there will be more strings of lights, and some additional pine added. The clothing colors I would suggest on this set are brown, gold, deep red/maroon, deep green, olive green, tan, burnt orange, sage green, black.

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SET 2

This set on blue with vintage ladders and green winter decor is perfect for kids and families as well. It works great with clothing in the following colors... brown, white, blue, green, ivory, tan, or a DEEP red/maroon. I would avoid a bold red on this so as to avoid a 'red/white/blue' look unless you want to have that Americana look on purpose of course!  Sweaters, casual looks, mittens/gloves/scarves OR even elegant clothing can work on this.

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SET 3

This cozy warm set is designed for a lighter, softer vibe. Clothing suggestions for this set are ivory, tan, brown, light or dark blue, navy, light or dark green, red, maroon, and more. This set is very flexible on clothing styles and colors. You could be elegant, but I think a casual "warm winter" vibe is best, such as cozy ivory sweaters, or a nice pop of color like blue as you see below.
 

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Our snow machine will make a return this year as well! :)

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SET 4

This set is a repeat from last year, it was a favorite among everyone so I decided to repeat it. I suggest clothing that is elegant for this set - colors such as gold, silver, black, deep green, and/or pops of red work great. 

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SET 5

Another repeated set from last year will be the white boxes and giant snowflakes. Clothing for this can be varied! It is all white so feel free to be creative! 

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SET 6

Also we're having our New Years set again! Clothing suggestions for this would be elegant, sequins, black, gold, silver, or red!
 

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AT HOME SESSIONS...

A special holiday experience - at your own house or location of choice!

pricing separate from our studio sessions

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2023 HOLIDAY SPECIAL RATES

[STUDIO]

*DATES AVAILABLE THROUGH EARLY DECEMBER, PLEASE NOTE TWO WEEK TURNAROUND FOR PHOTOS SO SCHEDULE EARLY IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO USE YOUR PHOTOS FOR HOLIDAY CARDS!

5 SETS / 3 OUTFITS / 90 MIN SESSION  - $799 +tax...  includes session & copyright license release w/ digital files

4 SETS / 3 OUTFITS / 90 MIN SESSION  - $699 +tax...  includes session & copyright license release w/ digital files

3 SETS / 2 OUTFITS / 60 MIN SESSION  - $599 +tax...  includes session & copyright license release w/ digital files

2 SET / 1 OUTFIT / 30 MIN SESSION  -  $499 +tax...  includes session & copyright license release w/ digital files 

Siblings only - suggested 30-60 mins

Family of 3-4, or young children who need extra time - suggested 60 mins 

Family of 4-7 suggested for 60-90 mins

[OUTDOOR]

*LIMITED DATES, inquire for openings.

60 MIN SESSION / UP TO 4 CHILDREN - $650 +tax...  includes session & copyright license release w/ digital files

[AT HOME]

MAGICAL AT HOME CHRISTMAS SHOOT - A FULL EXPERIENCE WITH A CATALOG OF PHOTOS YOU'LL CHERISH FOREVER 

2 HOURS - MAKING COOKIES,  DECORATING TREE, HOLIDAY LIGHTS OUTSIDE, YOUR CHOICE!

PRICE $999 

INCLUDES: 2 hr session, all digital files, copyright release (approx 200-300 photos)

Fall sessions have begun booking! We are so very excited for the fall foliage to arrive again in Pennsylvania, as it is truly the most magical time of the year for photography!

This blog has all of the info you're probably searching for, but don't hesitate to email me with any further questions! Thanks and can't wait to photograph you! -Autumn

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FALL PHOTOGRAPHY Q&A ...

DO YOU HAVE A FALL COUCH OR PUMPKIN/PROP SET THIS YEAR?

This year I've decided to go back to basics for fall photography. "Fall sets" and couches in the woods have all been done before, and to be honest I found that the images were beautiful but were lacking personality and connection in my subjects because there are only so many poses to be done on a couch setup with props or pumpkins, before they all seem to be redundant. Without props I am able to concentrate more on connecting my subjects together via beautiful poses and moments with wonderful PA fall foliage color and sunlight as my "prop"! This makes the photos truly timeless. It helps personalities and love really shine through the photo.

I enjoy taking a walk through the woods and fields with my clients to find pockets of colorful foliage and light beaming through. Each session then has its own look and uniqueness as well. It is now much less about the vintage couch or props and pumpkins in the woods and more about the connection of you and your relationships with your spouse/children, as well as beautiful portraits of the kids individually of course! I have found this to be more preferable to not only myself but my clients as well.

ARE YOU DOING MINI SESSIONS?

I also do not not have mini sessions, because I truly believe it takes about full hour to get all of the family combinations captured and children's personalities to truly shine through. As well as get to all of the great locations (both woods and fields) so that you have amazing images in all of those spots, with combinations of both posed and candid photos. Although if you have children who are a bit older or feel that a half hour is enough for you, I do have a shorter session option on sale (see below).

WHAT TIME SLOTS DO YOU HAVE OPEN?

I have various dates between Oct 21 and Nov 4. The color always peaks in Westmoreland County closer to Halloween, with an exception in 2021 of being about 5-7 days early due to weather that year being colder earlier. We are predicting normal foliage dates this year. So I usually just plan to start around oct 15 at the earliest! if the color changes significantly early, I will contact you. It is never later than that final week of October however. The magical light are the sessions that take place at golden hour, so book early for the best lighting slot! Midday sessions are great for lighting too, because the early sunset time in fall allows for nice daylight starting around 3pm each day (golden hour will be closer to 4-6pm timeframe)

WHAT ARE YOUR LOCATIONS?

Sandhill Berries apple picking - date TBD (one day only)

Bushy Run Battlefield - fields + forest - dates various available

Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve - available for fall fields earlier in October 

SPECIAL RATE PACKAGES

Option A)

$550+tax  

Included: 30-40 min session, editing/post processing, online album, flash drive, all digital files with copyright release to do your own printing. 
 

Option B)  60 m Session + all digitals with copyright release

$700+tax

Included: One hour session, editing/post processing, online album, flash drive, all digital files with copyright release to do your own printing. 

Option C)  90 m Session + all digitals with copyright release  *families over 6 suggested for this session length.

$900+tax

Included: 90 min session in studio, editing/post processing, online album, flash drive, all digital files with copyright release to do your own printing.

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HOW TO SURVIVE THE CHRISTMAS SEASON

~ TIPS FROM A PHOTOGRAPHER+MOM ~

People ask me all the time - how do you survive the holiday season? I'll admit... its rough, it's not easy, but it can be managed with planning. I have the most weddings all year long in fall, then we go straight into fall foliage portrait week (which is really like 2 weeks honestly), holiday sessions start Nov 1st, and I have a daughter with an early December birthday on top of that. If I can do it, anyone can. Here are my tips to surviving the holidays, making memories last through photos, and having fun while doing it all. 

My tips are more like a timeline. Follow along and I hope this helps bring some enjoyable memories to you and your family! 

Early September

Call your photographer to schedule an appointment for your family Christmas card. Start planning styles of clothing with your photog, based on what they suggest for their sets/locations they are offering this year. I suggest planning your photo shoot as soon after Halloween as possible. Your photographer will need time for post-processing, then delivery, and of course either he/she or you will need time to create your holiday card + order + write out envelopes and ship by early December.  I am a big fan of doing these in small batches, which you'll see more below. 

Once you have scheduled your photo shoot - Call to schedule your hair appointments for 2 weeks before your photo shoot.  Everyone in the family should be cut, trimmed, and color touched up if necessary.

Start shopping for Christmas gifts. 

Mid September 

Start ordering outfits for your family for your photo session, props for baking cookies (will explain more below), as well as jackets/coats/mittens/hats. 

Shop a little more for Christmas gifts!

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Early to Mid October 

If you plan on doing your own Christmas card on a site like Mpix, Minted or Shutterfly - start looking at the templates now and pick a few you like. Narrow it down. This process can take a while and finding the template you want now can save you time later when its holiday crunch zone time. 

Have everyone try on their outfit for family photos to be sure it fits. If something doesn't look right, you have a little bit of time to scramble and find something new.

Shop a little more for Christmas gifts!  

Purchase your postage now for your holiday cards to break up the spending that is to come later in November! 

Order toe and hand warmers! You can buy them in stores usually starting in late fall, or can order online. I like to have these on hand for photo shoots (if doing outdoor), going to see holiday lights, and setting up Christmas lights in my yard.

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Early November 

Put away your fall decor and start pulling out your Christmas decorations. In my house, we put them up over the course of a few days because if we wait for that one full day we are completely free - they'll never get put up. If you have a busy household, I think it's best to do it in parts. We have lots of decorations so we'll do strings of lights outside one day, then yard decor like our reindeer and light up moose on another day.  We also divide and conquer - my husband takes on certain parts and I'll do others.  We even break it down even more, such as one day we do nothing but get everything out of the garage, test light strands, and then set it aside ready to be put up the next day.  For us, small pockets of time work best. 

Your photo shoot will be taking place around now - or soon - so be sure you have everyone's haircuts completed. Manicures are a good idea, even if just DIY at home, for everyone. Be sure that kids nails are filed - dad too! 

Buy wrapping paper. It will be on the shelves Nov 1st, if not sooner.   Start wrapping!  But I do suggest putting post it notes on wrapped gifts, or making a list somewhere secure that no one will find.  If you wrap a lot of things you'll forget, and start guessing whether or not you have enough for certain people. 

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Mid November

Everything Christmas related will be on the shelves in the store by now. If you need anything for your home decor, photos, props for photos, frames, etc - grab it now.  The one thing I usually get this time of November is everything to make our holiday cookies and gingerbread house (a kit is great!). Sometimes these things will sell out once December hits and I like to have my props ready to go.

Start marking off your calendar for a few dates that might work for your family to go see holiday lights. I like to make it a point to write "go see lights" on a few dates of my calendar, because its so easy to forget about it until late December and then suddenly its too busy and the lights are closed up for the year. 

Order your Christmas cards as soon as your photographer has delivered your photos. Either through your photographer's lab, or if you purchased digitals then through your choice website - like Mpix, Minted or Shutterfly.

Plan for light up night. There are many options for light up nights - local and in the big city too. We don't typically venture to Pittsburgh for theirs, but will definitely do so in the future when my daughter is a bit older. This past year we had a great time at the Westmoreland Museum Light Up night. It was local, they had outdoor firepits with marshmallows, hot chocolate, live music and scavenger hunts. Everything was free and we had a great time. 

Continue wrapping gifts! 

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Late November

Address your holiday cards as soon as they arrive, take a few days to do it if you need to. Or put on a Christmas movie and finish it in under 90 minutes. Last year I found it helpful to have them out on the dining room table and each time I had 15 mins to spare, I did a handful of cards. I was done in a few days and I barely felt like it was a huge task at all. 

Holiday lights begin everywhere! Kennywood, Phipps, Overly's, Oglebay, you name it - the lights are up everywhere by Thanksgiving weekend (sometimes the week before).  Remember to bring cameras, dress warm, pack extra socks and layers! Photos with holiday lights are so much fun, so you may even want to inquire with your photographer if they are willing to do a photo shoot at one of these locations. 

I think its a good idea to order New Years Eve outfits around this time! Don't wait until too late! 

Thanksgiving Weekend

I like to put up my tree on Thanksgiving weekend, and gives us a really great break from being super busy to take two days to complete the interior of the house if necessary. One thing that I always decorate my mantles with are past Christmas photos of my daughter. She has had four Christmas's to the date of writing this blog, and I absolutely love having all of those different holiday sessions displayed in one spot. I pick up a few new holiday frames each year for the new photos around this time.  I also know some clients who frame their Christmas cards every year and those become decorations every year thereafter. 

Here are my tips for photographing your children decorating the tree! 

1. Enjoy the process of decorating, don't photograph too much. Put the camera down most of the time. 

2. Start decorating in daylight, so you can capture some great natural lighting in your photos.

3.  As you finish the tree,  it will likely be dark outside and you can get some great glow to the images as well. 

4. Capture details - like your children's hands on the ornaments, their expressions when you open the ornament box, a mug of hot chocolate on the table next to a family heirloom like the tree topper. 

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If it snows... 

GO outside! grab any images you can of your children in the fresh falling snow.

Don't assume that darkness means you can't capture any more photos. Try using your car headlights to illuminate the kiddos.

If its daylight, try capturing them right at dusk when its light enough to see their faces, but dark enough to capture your Christmas lights in the yard. 

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First week of December 

Mail your holiday cards. Also, order any last minute photography gifts. Canvas, prints, calendars, blankets, mugs - are all wonderful gifts for grandparents! 

Finish wrapping gifts if you are all done shopping. 

Find out about local events or Santa visits! For example, our local fire department comes through our neighborhood with Santa on a firetruck passing out treat bags every year, so I make sure to contact them around the first of December to ask what date they will be doing it this year. I add it to my calendar so we remember to stay home that day. 

I like to make holiday cookies a few times throughout December. We do it just for fun, but also to have some homemade sweets throughout the whole month, rather than an overload of TOO MANY cookies all at once the week of Christmas.  You can freeze them as you make them, saving them for the holidays when you start visiting too.  I also love to photograph the process of baking cookies.  Here are my tips for DIY cookie making photos.  

1. Remember to have fun, and let your kids enjoy the process without making it all about the photos.  

2. Have towels handy because you'll be switching from messy flour hands to handling your camera a lot. 

3. clean your camera or phone really good before you start, so you don't transfer germs from phone to cookie dough! 

4. Pick the time of day when the sun is most bright in the room you plan to make the cookies. If using your dining room and the window faces east, plan on morning.  If you prefer to do afternoon but the light is best in your living room then, consider moving a table into there if its not too much hassle.  You can even use your Christmas tree as a wonderful background for lights.

5. Capture several angles - down as low as you can go to the table, directly overhead looking down, and details of their hands alone. 

6. Photograph the whole process. So grab some photos right at the start, then midway kneading dough, then cutting out shapes, and after they have come out of the oven and ready to decorate - and don't forget the best part, a photo of your children eating them! 

7. Let them get messy!! 

8. Use your timer and get photos of yourself with your kids too.

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There are tons of great at-home activities that we love to do starting early in December, other than just baking. All of these things are great opportunities for capturing amazing photo memories. 

- Set up a train under your tree 

- Turn sugar ice cream cones upside down, paint them with green icing and decorate with candy and sprinkles to look like Christmas trees. You can make an entire tree farm! 

- Build and decorate a gingerbread house 

- Make a Christmas chain with 25 links made of paper. Hang it up and start ripping them off one a day til Christmas. I think making the last 7 in blue/white/silver is fun so you can continue the fun until New Years.

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Second week of December

Make holiday plans. Talk to family and decide where and when everything will go down!  I also think its a good idea to plan your food that you'll be cooking now. If you are hosting or not - likely at some point you'll be making a dish for dinner.  I suggest buying your non-perishable items (or long shelf life stuff) at this time like spices, baking ingredients or canned goods that you'll need in your recipes.   If you wait to buy a can of pumpkin until Dec 23rd, you probably will be bringing a cherry pie instead to family dinner.  Make your list for the fresh ingredients you'll need and mark your calendar for Dec 23rd now to get those items. 

START TO enjoy the season's festivities.  Plan family nights out to do everything you can that is happening around Pittsburgh. Here are some ideas...

- Outdoor ice skating downtown Pittsburgh

- Visit Santa 

- Mall shopping 

- Outdoor lights (Kennywood, Phipps, Overly's etc) 

- Charity events such as volunteering for Toys for Tots 

You can also make up your own events... 

- Cook a meal and deliver it to someone in need 

- Take a neighborhood walk to see all of the lights around your own house. Pack a wagon with hot chocolate in a thermos, snacks, blankets, extra mittens and hats, a bluetooth speaker playing holiday music - and your dog too! :) 

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Third week of December

Remember to start making your New Years plans and buying props like hats, noisemakers and outfits now! 

ENJOY THE HOLIDAY!!! Don't stress over the things that didn't get done, or that you should have bought more presents. Whatever you did was perfect, and more than enough. 

Fourth week of December 

If you haven't gotten a chance to go to see any holiday lights, go this week!

Have a fun New Years Eve!

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Autumn’s Photography Guide to Visiting Maui!

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In February, I traveled to the west side of Maui to explore, capture, photograph the area, and help film a documentary that I am co-producing. I wanted to share some of my favorite places to photograph. So, if you are planning to visit there, you can use this guide to help you plan your trip!

VIEW OF COASTLINE AT LAHAINA FROM THE WATER:

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Winter in Maui, specifically late January and early February, is peak season for breeding humpback whales. I’ve been whale watching in Alaska and Cape Cod, but was not prepared for the sheer number of whales we would see in the basin off the west coast of Maui. Do not skip out on seeing this once in a lifetime experience. My recommendation for a whale watching company would be Ultimate Whale Watch; they are eco friendly, respect the rules and regulations of the whale reserve, and are affordable.  If you have the funds to spend a little more, I highly recommend scheduling a private boat tour for 3 hours with them. It is worth every penny and much better than fighting to get a glimpse on a boat with 25 others.  The private boat is the same vessel they use to film shows and research/rescue whales. They provide meals and incredible service for an experience that is unmatched.  
Whoever you plan to tour with, be sure to ask them if they have a hydrophone so that you can listen to the singing whales.
*Photography tip: have a zoom lens on your camera, because unless the whales choose to come toward the boat on their own, the boats can not approach the whales closer then 100 yards.

PHOTO OF BILL RECORDING A BREECH:

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THE SIZE OF THE RAFT BOATS THRU ULTIMATE WHALE WATCH, LIKE YOU SEE BELOW, MAKE IT EASY TO SEE WHALES OVER & UNDER WATER: P1366170 _1036488_edit1 LR - Copy

A little more about whales before I move on to the rest of my blog about Maui…

In the Maui Nui Basin, there is more than half of the humpback whale population who will migrate for breeding and birthing their calves. This was the third whale trip with my husband Bill as part of his efforts to record their singing and communication. We started several years ago in Alaska, then tried some more in Cape Cod and completed the multi-year process in Hawaii.  Bill's project is called Earthtones  - an amazing creative blend of earth sound, music & visuals. Several years ago, we started filming the process of how he creates his music through the recording of sounds in nature. Most of this documentary we are producing was self filmed by Bill, himself, while hiking the areas he records, but I've also been a part of the filming process in many locations. Can't wait to share when the project is complete!
I would estimate that we had over 80 whale sightings total (not sure how many were the same exact whale). We had a variation of private boat tours with expert whale guides as well as some group public boats as well. Here are some fun facts about the humpback songs that I've learned!


- Males are the singers, although the females can and do communicate, only the males sing their "song". Researchers do not know why they sing. It was originally thought it was for mating purposes because they only do it in mating season, however when they sing it only attracts the other males and not the females. Many theories exist as to why this happens - one is that they are teaching the family song to the others to pass it on (I like to think its their family history being passed down through stories). Some believe that it is when a whale is lonely and the other whales come to sing with it perhaps for a sense of community. One of the top researchers in Maui says that after 40 years of studying the whale song, he knows less now than he did when he started.  That makes me realize that whales are so much more intelligent than we realize.

- The song they sing is specific to those whales and they all sing the exact same song within that whale group. For example, the whales in Mexico do not sing the same song as the whales in Maui (who migrate to Alaska for feeding in summer, then return in winter for breeding).

- The song they sing is in a chorus like an orchestra with many parts. They sing it in round, repeating certain parts and coming in and out like a symphony with movements - all in tune with each other. It is a song repeated exactly the same all year long, then it changes slightly the next year.

- Each year they add and/or remove one part of the song. It is the same symphony with just a slight change. I was told that this year the part added sounds like a microphone feeding back (very high pitched).  The different parts can sound like a screech, a low bellow, a growl, a creaky door, an opera singer, a clicking, and much much more.

If you plan to be in Maui, Alaska or Cape Cod and would like a referral of a trusted company to hire for sight seeing (public or private), please reach out to Bill and I anytime. We would love to connect you to any of our amazing guides. A special thank you to Derek and Meaghan, our Hawaii guides who gave us the best experience and taught us so much (they will also be in Seward, AK in summer!)

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Lahaina is where we made our home for several weeks while in Hawaii. I suggest staying here for accessing most of the island that I have listed here in this article, as well as getting on the boat to visit the whales. Not to mention, you can see whales spouting and breeching from the beach and shore anyday, anytime.  We spotted many just driving along the coast. If you are like me, I like to have a home away from home with bedrooms and a kitchen etc. So I always book a VRBO or Airbnb, which is what we did for this trip. We had an apartment and lived with the locals in a real neighborhood which was lovely. I am sure a resort would offer an amazing experience as well, so whatever type of travel you are looking for, you’ll surely find options there. But keep in mind, accommodations book up very quickly and there are more travlers than places to stay in Maui!

You’ll hear a lot of buzz about driving the Road to Hana. But if you don’t have the time to do so (it takes all day), another wonderful day trip by car is the Road to Kahakuloa. I personally found this drive to be more beautiful in certain ways than the Road to Hana.  You can make so many stops at overlooks while adding stops at the Nakalele Blow Hole, Karen Lei’s Gallery, and the Waihee Ridge Trail. The way we did this daytrip was to take the southern route from Lahaina to Waihee Ridge along Rt 30. We arrived in morning and did the trail until about noon (I loved this trail! It was challenging but not difficult at all, my 4 year old even managed the entire way to the top!). We then drove back to Lahaina via the northern route which is the road I referenced at the beginning of this paragraph, through Kahakuloa - stopping at the gallery and blow hole I mentioned on the way. Keep in mind the gallery was literally the only public place we found to stop and use a restroom or purchase a drink. There is no gas or food along this route (as is the same with many roads in Maui so be prepared always!) Try to time it you so that you leave the blow hole as your last stop approximately 1 hr before sunset, because the drive along the west coast from the blow hole to Lahaina at sunset is very magical! Be aware that the drive from the Waihee Ridge Trail to around where the blow hole is can be difficult for some who do not like winding roads, steep cliffs or narrow roads where barely 2 cars can squeeze past one another! However the adventure of that road was quite exciting!
 

NAKALELE BLOW HOLE: blow hole

OVERLOOK ALONG THE ROAD TO BLOW HOLE FROM LAHAINA (ROAD TO KAHAKULOA)
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OVERLOOK ALONG THE ROAD JUST A FEW MINS NORTH OF DRAGON'S TEETH
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Every beach is simply amazing! They are all SO different. Baby beach was loaded with sea turtles! Slaughterhouse Beach was simply gorgeous and very natural. Kaanapali Beach was beautiful too! There are many beaches, so I suggest you google them all and hit up as many different ones as you can, even if its just for a walk at sunset. Some beaches are pebbles or rocks and some are soft warm sand. There are some black sand beaches, but that is at the end of the Road to Hana and does require timed entry/registration.

Photography tip: bring an underwater go pro to capture the turtles, but remember to not get too close or touch them. Always respect their space and natural environment under the sea.

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There are many MANY chickens and roosters all over the island! You'll see them walk under your car as you pump gas, hang out on the beach, and cross the trail in front of you on the way to a beautiful waterfall! They're very friendly (and so cute!!), but as with any wildlife... don't touch or feed them! 

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The Road to Hana is amazing! But it is quite long and takes time just to get to the start of the road from Lahaina. If you plan to do this, beware that you should start your day at sunrise and expect it to take until sunset. If you don’t want to travel the entire road, consider just doing the first 15 miles or so. You can see some great places in the first 15 miles and then turn around and return to Lahaina! Here is a short list of a few great spots in that beginning stretch:  Twin Falls, Garden of Eden Arboretum, Waikamoi Nature Trail, and the Eucalyptus Rainbow Trees. I would estimate even just the first 15 miles with these stops is at least a half day if not more.
Photography tip:  stroll through Garden of Eden with a camera to capture every flower and plant you can imagine that Hawaii has to offer.  Practice slow exposures on the many waterfalls on this road to get that soft streaming look of the rushing water
Hit up Mama’s Fish House on the way home from the Road to Hana - but be aware you need to make reservations months in advance.

GARDEN OF EDEN ARBORETUM:

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A few things that are close to Lahaina you will also want to check out are Dragon’s Teeth, Kapalua Coastal Trail, the Honoapiilani Food Truck Park and the amazing jungle trees at the Honolua Bay Access Trail.  You could hit up these four suggestions as well as Slaughterhouse Beach in one day.  Photography tip:  Get to Dragon’s Teeth 15 mins before sunrise and capture the golden light hitting the waves.

HONOLUA BAY ACCESS TRAIL:

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SUNSET AT DRAGON'S TEETH: dragons teeth (2)

KAPAULA COASTAL TRAIL: kapaula coastal trail

The last location I would highlight is Haleakalā National Park. I almost did not take the trip there but couldn’t be happier that I did. I felt the magic of watching the sunset from on top of this volcano. It's something you will never forget. I suggest leaving Lahaina around noon or 1pm for this trip. It will take you a few hours to drive from Lahaina to the top of the volcano. The switchback drive to the top was not too bad in terms of car sickness or steep sides and cliffs! Very easy to drive and wide enough for two cars to pass each other! You’ll want to arrive at the top at least 1 hr before sunset, if not earlier if you want to park at the summit and/or walk around to explore a bit. Once you reach the top there are two areas for parking. If you arrive close to sunset, the top parking lot (actual summit of the volcano) will likely be full, so you can park in the lower lot near the bathrooms and walk to the summit. There is also a trail we discovered that went to a very similar high point from that lower parking area, which we chose to take instead of fighting the crowd at the actual peak since it was packed full. Capture the sunset from this point, you’ll be above the clouds and watch the most magnificent display you can imagine. Be sure to bring WINTER clothing - coat, hat, gloves, etc. It is extremely cold at the top especially after the sun goes down. After the sun has set, make your way back to your car and take a rest for a few minutes. Let the other cars rushing off the peak go ahead of you and enjoy the ride down without traffic. This gives you a chance to let the stars come out. About halfway down the switchbacks you’ll begin to think that someone speckled your windshield with magical white dust until you realize it is the most dense display of stars you’ve ever seen. Plan to pull over at an overlook and get out of the car to take it all in. We took our time coming down that volcano and still made it back to Lahaina by 11pm.  Photography tip:  get there early for sunset, bring a tripod if you like star photography!

If you plan to go there for sunrise you must get a timed entry ticket, or book a tour! 

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Before going to Hawaii, it is important that you do some research on best ways to respect the culture, locals, and rich history.  The Hawaii Vacation Guide is a wonderful site written by a married couple who lives there and not only do they have the best guides on what to do, they also have great tips on respect for Hawaiian culture. https://thehawaiivacationguide.com/

Lastly, I suggest supporting the local photographers who live there (Or bring me along with you, wink wink) to have a family photo session scheduled while you are there! 

PHOTO CREDIT BELOW: SEA LEVEL PHOTOGRAPHY, MAUI

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LAST PHOTOGRAPHY TIP...

Always always have a camera ready to go! This shot below in the rain happened because we had a tripod set up for a family photo in the sunset lighting, and as we pushed the shutter and ran back to the spot it suddenly began to rain and this was truly the most magical photo I could have imagined! sometimes you gotta take those lemons in life and make some sweet lemonade :) 

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If you are going to Maui... Have a wonderful time! I hope this guide will help you plan. Remember, be courteous to the locals and culture in Hawaii... we are guests there and must treat it as so! DSC_5097

I hope you enjoyed this virtual tour of my trip to a very special little island in the Pacific :)

This spring wedding at the Oglebay Resorts in West Virginia had the most picture perfect day on Cinco de Mayo! From stunning bridal details and sunny skies, to an amazing lighting display at the reception - this wedding was just beautiful! These two were beaming with smiles and love for each other the whole day through.

Congrats to Ashley and John on tying the knot!
 

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Dance Mini Studio Sessions - MAY, JUNE, JULY 2023

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We've been approached by many parents who want photos of their dancers, so we've decided to have a community-wide dance school photo day! If you're dance school isn't offering a photo day, or if you just want some professional and fun dance photos, this is your opportunity to book them!  Reach out through the contact page or email us directly [email protected].

Price: $100 for half hour with product credit

DETAILS: Your package includes the 30minute session fee($25), up to 2 outfits, two full length backdrops and one headshot, and an online gift card code worth $75 which you will be able to use to purchase ANY print/product and sizes/quantities that you wish through our website. Additional a la carte prints available beyond your initial investment.

ADD ON:  $20 SESSION FEE PER ADDITIONAL OUTFIT

DATES AVAILABLE IN MAY, JUNE & JULY 2023

Location: SkySight Photography 409 Coulter Ave, Greensburg, PA 15601

Link to our studio

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www.skysightphotography.com
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I come from a family of cooks. My mom has passed down all the ways of the grandmothers' (plural) cooking tips over the years, and making homemade pasta is one of them. We've made homemade pasta in my home since I was a kid, because well... its easy, cheap and tastes amazing.  The Italian side of my family was from Italy only a few generations back so the way we do it is how Nunny showed us.  

My mom told me the "recipe" as we made the pasta, and I photographed her hands.  I'll explain it as we go below...  Just a warning, if you like real measurements, this isn't the recipe for you LOL.  Me? I love recipes that are a little pinch of this, a dash of that, a juice glass full of this, and a "lot" of that.  Especially recipes I can learn from heart and make over and over. 

Even if you don't want the "recipe" (if I can even call this that) - I hope you enjoy this beautiful photographic journey of my mother's hands making a classic meal enjoyed in my family for generations.

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Start off with some eggs, milk, salt and flour.  Mom says to keep the eggs and flour equal.  One cup of flour? Then you use one egg.  For this shoot, we used two cups of flour and two eggs.  It made about four servings for dinner that night.

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You don't need a mixing bowl, but you could if you want. The way Nunny did it was right on the table.  Pour out the two cups of flour onto the table, then make a little hole in the middle like you're building a little pool.  

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crack the eggs right into the "hole"  (yup, thats official recipe language)

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start mixing it up with a fork, like your scrambling the eggs

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If the wall caves (above pic), just pull it back in (below pic)

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As you mix the eggs, start to fold the flour from the sides of the walls into the middle. Slowly keep going...

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Pretty soon you'll notice it getting thicker and closer to a dough you can form and roll.

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Add a big pinch of salt.  We added a few big pinches. How much? Ummm... Told ya this isn't a recipe for those who need exact measurements haha.

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Soon enough you'll be able to start working it all together with your hands into a ball of dough. Now its time to add the milk.  Nunny's recipe said a "juice glass full of milk"....seriously. So you can interpret that the way you want. Remember a juice glass from the 40's or so? Little things.

Mom says to add the milk slowly and you'll see how much you "need" to make the dough the right consistency and not too dry. Basically, little splashes here and there. work the dough, a few more splashes. Ok you're good.

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Form the dough in a long roll. 

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Cut the roll into segments, like this...

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Add some flour so it will be smooth and roll easy through the rollers of the pasta maker.

If you don't have a pasta maker you can obviously check online, but usually Italian stores like Delallo's in Greensburg or Labriola's in Monroeville/PennHills/Wexford will have them, you can call and ask.  My brother bought this one for me years ago for Christmas, I'm pretty sure from Labriola's! 

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The segments get rolled through the pasta maker. Start with the flat roller set on the widest setting first. Roll it through, then close the gap and roll again, and again. Each segment will go through about 3 times. You want it really thin! 

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Keep adding flour generously to the pieces you are rolling through! 

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When you get them thin enough, they're almost paper thin and really long! 

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Switch your handle over to the pasta side and choose which you want - we decided to go with fettuccine. 

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Dont forget to keep the dough covered in flour!

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And important tip, be sure to catch it when it comes out the other side. One hand to crank, one to catch and lay flat immediately. 

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Remember - crank and catch! Its a quick moving process, so be prepared. Two people is even better/easier.

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When its all done you'll have a mess that is the stuff dreams are made of. You can let it dry out and save it, give it to friends and family, or cook it right up for dinner that night. We only let it sit about an hour and it was into the boiling water. I noticed it cooks quicker than store bought pasta, so be careful not to overcook it. I pulled it from the water just a smidge after it tasted al dente and it was absolutely perfect. 

Bon appetit!
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HELLO WORLD! 
MEET LEXI...

Lexi has been a model with SkySight Photography for about 10 years, since she was a preteen! Our latest shoot was too good not to blog, so check it out below! 

PS: Hey High School Seniors... Outdoor photo shoots are definitely beautiful in every way, but if you want something different and unique you may want to consider a studio model session like Lexi did! 

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FULTON COMMONS HEADSHOT DAY PART 2 ! 

Our first day SOLD OUT! and we've had a great response to more people wanting more headshots here so we've booked a second date at this wonderful unique spot in Pittsburgh! Take a peek below at some of the photos from our shoot and at the bottom of this blog you'll find out the details and pricing on the upcoming date! 

FRIDAY, APRIL 7th   10am to 2pm   *Slots are booking fast, only 7 total available  (half hour blocks!) 

Here are a group of samples from our last shoot at FC! :)  DSC_4183-Edit

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And here are the rooms! 

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TOTAL COST FOR A SLOT  $475 

TIMELINE TO GET THESE AMAZING HEADSHOTS FROM BOOKING TO FINAL DELIVERY! 

OPTION 1) 

(1) EMAIL TO BOOK A SLOT! You will pay a non refundable deposit of $75 when booking 

(2) After deposit is paid, a payment of $200 will be due at session 

(3) proofs will be delivered approx 2 weeks after session

(4)  $200 will be due after proofs are delivered to get full gallery download of all files. You will get to choose 5 images for extra retouching. More images are available at $5-10 each for editing depending on request.

OPTION 2 

(1) non refundable deposit of $75 when booking 

(2) AFTER DEPOSIT IS PAID, payment of $400 due at session. If you do this you’ll get an extra file for editing (total of 6) 

(3) proofs will be delivered approx 2 weeks after session. You will get the full gallery download of all files. Then you will get to choose 6 images for extra retouching. More images are available at $5-10 each for editing depending on request.

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Spring is right around the corner!

It might seem hard to believe, because as I write this, the weather outside is certainly full blown W-I-N-T-E-R.  But I'm positively ready to "think spring" and can't wait to see those temps start to rise and before we know it, the blooms will appear. 

This spring I've decided to host a special set for a combination spring special / Mother's Day event. I've absolutely loved doing the Mommy & Me sessions last year on the bed, so I wanted to bring that event back, but add an amazing new set as well! I finished the new set just a few days ago, so I jumped in to model it myself. I know you'll love it as much as I do! I've been wanting to try a more boho floral vibe for a few years and finally decided to design one with my own spin on it. 

The special is your choice between doing it as a Mother's Day session, or just the kids for a spring session. You can do either, or both! read more below and I'll explain further!

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So here are the details! 

There will be two sets. You can choose one or two, but I highly suggest doing them both for a longer session, they're both so beautiful and very different.  You can also choose if you want to do it as a mother/child set, or just the kids which I am calling a spring set.

The sets are:

Set 1) Boho floral ladders (shown above)   

Set 2) Loft white bed (shown below)

Clothing:

You can bring your own attire or look through the studio closet to wear something that I have. I don't have every size available, but many common sizes for moms, and young children (boys and girls).  You can do different clothing for each set, or the same if you wish.  Feel free to inquire on what styles and sizes are available.

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Pricing:

Package will be based on the length of your shoot that you pick, and if mom does photos with children, or only the kids as simply a spring session.   Be sure to let me know what you plan on choosing when you schedule so we can book the appropriate amount of time for you.

OPTIONS FOR SESSION WITH MOM:

- Mom & children together on 1 set  $425

- Mom & children together on 2 sets  $525

- Add portraits of children alone to session  $75
 

OPTIONS FOR SESSION OF JUST THE KIDS:

- Kids only, without mom on 1 set $400

- Kids only, without mom on 2 sets $500

Scheduling/Dates: 

Various dates available in March 15th - April 12th! Email [email protected] to find out more or to sign up!

*After April 12th, we will be moving into our outdoor spring blossom sessions!

Discounts

Early Bird Signup - If you book your session in January, get an 8x10 free!

I welcome you to take a stroll through the gallery below to view more of the set sample photos!

Set 1...
 

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Set 2...

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Easter 2023 

Egg dying sessions

For the last few years I've captured some amazing moments of my daughter dying Easter eggs, a tradition I remember so fondly from my own childhood and excited to pass on to her. I decided that this year I will offer Easter Egg Dying Sessions! The sessions will include candid moments of your children, close ups of their adorable small hands and their proud faces when they see the results of their amazing eggs! 

You can schedule a regular one hour photo session at your house, and we will capture not only some egg dying, but family portraits at your house as well! For pricing on home sessions, visit our rate information page.

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This year's spring blossom sessions will take place between April 14 and 18th, which is when these gorgeous pink blooms will appear! the sessions take place in Pittsburgh (Location revealed before session) so if you are interested and available these dates, book early to secure a spot! 

Pricing for these sessions as follows... 

OPTION 1)  

30 mins - $500 including digital files

OPTION 2) 

45 mins (two outfits or for larger families or engagement) - $650 including digital files

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HAPPY VALENTINES DAY! 

February 14th is one of my favorite days of the year! Its all about L-O-V-E ! ! ! 
Our sets are ready for 2023, and if we get snow we'll have the bonus of outdoor sessions too! I will only be taking sessions through Jan 29th, because I am heading to the amazing island of Maui for February :)  Check out some sneak peeks below for set pics! 

If you're interested in a Valentines Day session, you can schedule: 

one set $275

two sets $375

45 mins - outdoor/snow with props $450

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Our boudoir sessions are back!

PERFECT FOR VALENTINES OR AN UPCOMING BIRTHDAY OR ANNIVERSARY IN 2023!

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This is the time to get boudoir photos taken & store that gift for your loved one's next big day that you plan to celebrate together. Perhaps this Valentines day! Or maybe to give to them at your next date night as an unexpected surprise! Or even save it for your upcoming anniversary this year!

ONE DAY ONLY!

FRIDAY, JANUARY 20th 

$250 per slot, $200 for second slot
Makeup artist $95 extra or $125 for makeup + hair
 

Details:

There will be several sets for you to choose from... a bed, a vintage couch, and more. Each slot you pick is priced for one set and one outfit. For example, you can choose one 20 min slot and wear one outfit on the set of your choice, or you can book more slots. So, if you book three slots you'll get three outfits and three sets! All sessions come WITH your digital files and also a discount code to order albums and prints online as well! You can do just one slot, or several!

**Time slots vary, email Autumn to reserve your spot now! 

[email protected] 

Check out the sample sets below! 

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NEW YEAR, NEW HEADSHOTS! 

Come join us for our headshot mini session day! 

date 1 - Jan 18

date 2 - Jan 23 

***1/11/23: UPDATE!!! THE JANUARY SESSIONS ARE ALMOST SOLD OUT (2 SLOTS LEFT AS OF TODAY) SO WE HAVE DECIDED TO ADD A THIRD DATE WHICH WILL BE IN FEBRUARY ON 2/21!!

You can do one outfit per time slot, feel free to purchase additional time slots. Each slot will be 20 mins, and you will receive a collection of proofs online to choose from, then 1 image of your choice from the proofs will be fully edited and emailed to you as digital file for your usage however you wish (print, online, etc).

Cost $125 per slot , $100 for each additional slot.

I encourage you to consider a double slot, which will be 30 mins for $225! Two outfits, two sets, lots of proofs to choose from, and two final chosen images > having a little more time will definitely yield more variety and choices for you, as well as give you an additional photo for later this year when you want to refresh your look for the second half of 2023 on social media.  A headshot for now, and one for later! 

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Congrats to Kaela and Steven on your wedding and best wishes for a beautiful future together. Bill and I had the most wonderful day photographing you and your families! 

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Holiday Portraits 2022
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Our holiday sets are ready to go! We had a visit from Buddy the Elf and in one night, the studio was transformed into a beautiful holiday portrait wonderland! Well, not really but I totally wish that was true! Great news is, the studio truly IS ready to go for portrait sessions so email ASAP to get your session booked. The best time slots (weekends, evenings) tend to get booked up first so keep that mind - and call early! Ready to see the sets for this year? Scroll down to view all of the options we have in store for you. Several color options, sets for both Christmas, winter, and/or New Year's eve, snow, and more! Don't stop scrolling, check out all the options. All special packages are listed at the bottom! Please reach out with any questions or to schedule by emailing me at [email protected]

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WHITE SNOWFLAKE SET WITH MOD BOXES:

The white snow set is modern, simple, and bright! its fun and cheerful, and will match any holiday card you choose. You can do this set with a suit/tie and ballgown, or with casual clothing like a white wool sweater! The theme of this set is winter and snow! Guess what? We have a real snow machine! So much fun for a family, a couple, or even just a headshot for a social media influencer photo shoot! 

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GREEN & GOLD SET:

The green set is classic, and can include the green/gold bench or nothing at all if you prefer to do a fun photobooth effect! I love the different options this simple set has to offer - either dramatic and timeless, or fun and goofy! Perfect for a family or couple set as well! The gold elements make it elegant so I suggest dressy attire for this set - black, green, silver, gold and even gray will work wonderful on this set. Or try red if you want to make it more of a fun holiday cheerful shot! Reindeer can be removed if you prefer to not have holiday elements.

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This set can be done as a fun photo booth style as well! 

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RED SET:

The red set is a simple and gorgeous small settee, sized for a single person or very small family or siblings. This set is gorgeous when wearing red or black! Its timeless and one of my favorites for this year. We used this set for Valentines day last year, and can be on your wall all year long without looking like a holiday set to be honest.

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VINTAGE LADDERS, TREE, GARLAND AND LIGHTS SET:
 

The ladder set is back after a year being benched for the holidays. I changed it up a bit and we'll have more ladders, and lots of lights! this sparkling favorite is always a big hit with everyone. I love this set for children and families, but the lights also make it romantic for a couple photo as well! If you love the blowing hair look, just request the fan for your shoot!

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ROCKING HORSE:

A very simple classic, brown backdrop and a vintage rocking horse! this set is for a single child, or possibly two siblings. Age range is 2-5. 

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REAL SNOW ***WEATHER PERMITTING***
Yes we do have a snow machine in the studio this year!!! But, if the weather cooperates by bringing an early winter, we'lll have some opportunities for outdoor snow as well! If you are interested in doing outdoor shoot with snow, you must get on our snow list to be contacted when snow arrives, and be available on short notice. We can't plan for it much more than a few days in advance of course! Below are shots from the last few years of snow sessions at Bushy Run and Twin Lakes.

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BRICK WALL AND WINDOWS SET: 

This set is done easily with either our small trees or the large wreath! I love this set for casual setting and clothing.

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PINK SET:

Due to other sets being up in this room we won't have the pink set exactly as shown below, but a simple version of this can be set up for you by request.

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REINDEER: 

This is such a fun idea and last year was my first time trying it. It was a big hit when we shared this on social media so I figured I'd offer it for a client if anyone were interested! If you want to try this amazing Reindeer portrait session, we just need to schedule the makeup artist to come to your session about 45 mins prior to do the hair and makeup. Extra fees apply for the MUA.  Props provided!

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NEW YEARS EVE:

The New Years set for this year is similar to last year but we've added 2023 sunglasses to wear, new crowns and hats, and champagne glasses! (Ginger ale for the bubbly!) We're keeping the fun confetti of course - the best part of this set! This is one of my favorites, it is SO fun and everyone loves adding these to the back of their holiday card. It is perfect for a couple, family, a single child or even an adult who wants a fun photo of themselves for social media.

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SIMPLE GRAY:

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IN HOME SESSIONS:

Your own lights, your Christmas tree and baking cookies in your own home. Just inquire for pricing on these sessions, the rates for in studio holiday sales do not apply.

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2022 HOLIDAY SPECIAL RATES

[STUDIO]

*DATES AVAILABLE THROUGH EARLY DECEMBER, PLEASE NOTE TWO WEEK TURNAROUND FOR PHOTOS SO SCHEDULE EARLY IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO USE YOUR PHOTOS FOR HOLIDAY CARDS!

4 SETS / 3 OUTFITS / 90 MIN SESSION  - $800 +tax...  includes session & copyright license release w/ digital files

3 SETS / 2 OUTFITS / 60 MIN SESSION  - $600 +tax...  includes session & copyright license release w/ digital files

2 SETS / 1 OUTFIT / 30 MIN SESSION  -  $450 +tax...  includes session & copyright license release w/ digital files 

Siblings only - suggested 30-60 mins

Family of 3-4, or young children who need extra time - suggested 60 mins 

Family of 4-7 suggested for 60-90 mins

[OUTDOOR]

*LIMITED DATES, inquire for openings.

60 MIN SESSION / UP TO 4 CHILDREN - $650 +tax...  includes session & copyright license release w/ digital files

[AT HOME]

MAGICAL AT HOME CHRISTMAS SHOOT - A FULL EXPERIENCE WITH A CATALOG OF PHOTOS YOU'LL CHERISH FOREVER 

2 HOURS - MAKING COOKIES,  DECORATING TREE, HOLIDAY LIGHTS OUTSIDE, YOUR CHOICE!

PRICE $999 

INCLUDES: 2 hr session, all digital files, copyright release (approx 200-300 photos)

Wishing these two the BEST in their long happy marriage ahead! XO! 

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