Occasions! Photography Blog

2012 Charity Model Search for America's Cutest Kid!

2012-01-03T16:12:00.000-05:00

Occasions! Photography is participating in theCharity Model Search to select America’sCutest Kid and to raise funds for the non-profit Now I Lay Me Down To SleepFoundation. (NILMDTS.org)

Is your child America’sCutest Kid? We’ll give you the opportunity to prove it! The prizewinnerswill receive a generous savings bond and gift cards!

ModelSearch Special:

$45entrance fee includes a 30-minute model session and one image submitted to theinternational gallery.

Finalists will be determined by online votes. Eachvote is $1 (no limit on the amount of votes you can cast), and all proceedsfrom votes benefit Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep (NILMDTS.org). The top 25 vote receivers will move on to thefinal judging round to determine the winners.

Grandprize winner and runners up will be determined from the 25 finalists. Thewinner and runners up are selected by photography experts.

Call 317.997.5009 now to enter your “Cutest Kid” in thisexciting contest.

*Contestopen to residents of the US. For more information, visithttp://www.charitymodelsearch.org.

2011 Entries:

First Steps

2011-11-07T22:40:00.002-05:00

So every photographer says, "I want to capture your memories." That is our goal, capture a moment in time and freeze it for our clients to treasure forever. Most of the time, that consists of a smile, a goofy grin, the kids posed for that perfect picture. So this Sunday when I went to clients home to take some pictures of their two little ones, this was what I expected. I'd photographed them before in the studio and we decided that we'd do the next session at their home so the kids would be a little more comfortable and they were. It started out as a typical session. Getting Tenley and Ty to smile was my mission.

Then something really cool happened:

Tenley took her first steps! Her dad looked at me and said "she's never done that before!" So he had her do it again, and again...then called mom and grandma in to see! It was so cool and we captured it! We truly froze a moment in time that is priceless....her first steps!

It's time like this that I feel so blessed to be able to do what I do! I love my job!

Caitlyn - class of 2012

2011-11-07T22:20:00.003-05:00

Wow! What a month October was! How many days in October? 31? Ok, I had 32 sessions in the month of October!!!! It was a busy, busy time but let me tell you I loved every minute of it. My poor knee may not agree, but oh well. Between fall family sessions and seniors I have been busy as can be.

So I'm now trying to get caught up on my editing and finishing all these session, but my blog needs updated as well. So I will try to start at the beginning of the month.

First up was Caitlyn - Taylor High School - class of 2012. Believe it or not, this young ladys mom and I went to elementary, jr high and high school together. I feel so old that this is her 2nd child graduating from high school; but it was fun spending the day with Caitlyn and her mom and Nana. Caitlyn has an awesome look that just came across so natural...Here are some of my favs....gorgeous!

Fall Family Sessions have begun!

2011-10-05T20:24:00.002-04:00

After a week delay, thanks to 38 degree weather last week, we cancelled out family sessions and moved then to this week and next weekend. Today was the first session, so glad we waited, we had a perfect day today and PERFECT lighting! Kim, Jeff, Casey & Lyndsey were great! I haven't had time to really look at them yet, but just glancing thru here are a few that I'm already in love with!

What a great looking family!

Kim & Jeff

"Mz. Thang" What a gorgeous girl, she had was posin' up a storm for me!

The "Cool Dude" typicla tweener, didn't really want to be there but was awesome anyway!

Thanks guys for a great session! Lots more to come :)

A Week In Review ;)

2011-09-05T18:41:00.000-04:00

So for the past week I have been working a "temporary consulting" job so for the first time since July of 2010 I have had to get up at 6am, get dressed (in dress clothes) and drive to an office! I was really dreading it, and am still dreading doing it again this week, but it hasn't been that bad. Would I rather be home in my studio? Absolutely, but I think the worse part has been having to wear shoes! Seriously, I hate shoes unless they are my old ratty flip flops and I'm thinking they don't make the "dress code" in the office. To be honest I've been in a pretty bad mood all week because of it and probably took it out on my husband and kids when they really didn't deserve it.

All in all the week went pretty fast and as the week came to a close, I received a call from Riley Hospital of a family requesting the services of NILMDTS. Because I was working, I tried to find one of our other photographers to take the session; but I was not having any luck and time was running out for us to get there. So I ran home, got my camera and went back to do the session.

I don't give details of NILMDTS sessions because it is a very emotional and private expereince for the family and the photographer, but as with the other 19 beautiful babies that I have had the honor to photograph, this little angel takes a special place in my heart along with his beautiful family. I spend a very short amount of time with these families, but in that brief time I feel a connection that runs very deep as they allow me to share and capture some very special moments with their child.

As I have spent the past few days editing their images and getting them ready for them; that process puts me into a complete and total different mind set. As with every session I take for NILMDTS it brings me down to earth and back to reality about how precious life is and I step back and look at my blessings.

As we start a new week, this family prepares to lay their first child to rest and my thoughts and prayers are with them hoping that they have peace and love to guide them through this difficult time in their lives. And as I start this new week, I will do so not with dread of having to "go to work" but with thankfulness for my family and all the wonderful things that God has given to me.

I'll leave you with a picture that brings a smile to my face every time...this was drawn at Disney this summer of my two kids...and it's fitting, the artist captured it perfect...JT is always looking at Lauren like "what the heck are you doing?" and she is always smiling that little onrey smile! Have a wonderful week :)

Beautiful Emma - Isn't she a doll!

2011-09-04T22:19:00.000-04:00

This session with Emma was so fun, she wouldn't stop moving, but we got some great shots! LOVE THESE! She is such a good model!

Fall Specials.....hurry and save!

2011-08-30T18:15:00.000-04:00

Act now and save big on all kinds of sessions!

Brides: Book your 2012 Wedding with Occasions! Photography by Nov 1st and save $250 on your wedding package and 10% off a print package!

Mommies to be....Book a My First Year Session and get your maternity session for free! My First Year inlcudes Newborn/3mo/6mo/1yr sessions + a 1 Year Framed print that include an image from each session! This program will be changing in 2012, get your's booked today!

Seniors.....book your Senior session by Nov 1st (we'll shoot in the Spring) and save 15% off session fees!

Families.....Fall Sessions are a great time to update your your family portraits. I have some set fall days at locations around town or you can schedule a session to meet your timeframe. Fall Sessions special, through Nov 15th is $55 (save $25) + $20 in print credit and 15% off holiday cards.

Meet Julie - Cardinal Ritter Senior Rep Class of 2012

2011-08-28T22:05:00.000-04:00

I have a fun shoot today with Julie....what a gorgeous girl! Julie and her mom spent the afternoon with me and we couldn't have asked for a better day! It was beautiful out there! Mindy Kennen was in to do Julie's makup....WOW! She did an awesome job (as always) and Julie looked amazing!

Since Julie is a Senior Rep and will be "working" for me :wink wink: she will have a few other sessions over the next months of her senior year. Today's session was the "Studio Shoot" and the "Summer Shoot" We spent about an hour int he stuido and then headed out to one of my favorite secret shooting spots. I'm loving what I'm seeing from her shoot so far....here's a sneak peek:

Fall Family Sessions, book your sessions now!

2011-08-24T10:33:00.001-04:00

Fall is a great time of year for family pictures. It is beautiful outdoors, there are so many options for loctions. Some of my favoirte images have been taken in the fall! Earlier this summer I did Family Days at specific locations...it was a great idea, but it was so hot and humid it just didn't work out well. So I decided that we'll do them in the fall too when it's cooler and more comfortable to get outside.

So, here's the deal...$55 session fee (Regular price is $75), 1 hour time slot, up to 6 people ($5 for additional persons), and $20 credit towards print purchase.

October 1st

Forest Park in Noblesville
Several different options here, covered bridge, trees, fences, etc.
Time Slots: 9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm & 5pm

October 16th

Shadyside Park in Anderson
Several areas of the park to choose from
Time Slots: 9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm & 5pm

October 29th

Locations TBD, have an idea? Let me know
Time slots will depend on location

Call today to schedule your time slot, these will go fast!

317.997.5009

Changes are coming.......if I blog it I have to do it right?

2011-08-24T10:21:00.000-04:00

So Monday night I attended my 5th Sandy Puc' seminar. Each one has been different, there have been topics from Babies to Weddings....she covers it all and in a fun, interesting and unique way. Listening to her speak is just energizing....she is so full of experience and knowledge and passion for what she does. When I first saw her I said, "I wanna be like Sandy" but the more I see and hear her speak I realize that I don't want to be like her I want to take her passion and knowledge and reinvent me to bring out my own passion and excel at what it is I love...Photography!

The show Monday was all about Kids photography....how to be creative and unique and how to build your business to suceed. Many of the things she talked about have been discussed in previous shows, but hearing them again just drives home the points that I have make some changes. Good changes...for me, my business, and for my clients.

I'm not going to rush these changes as I know that I need to do it right, so I'm giving myself a timeline of 6 months to prepare and do the things I have to do. Some may go beyond 6 months, but I think that is a good start. This will be happening in the background and I will be doing "business as usual." You might see some new pieces of the puzzle pop up here and there, but I hope to have everything in place by early 2012. If you have small children, this is going to benefit you the most, but all clients, wedding, seniors, family will gain from the changes.

Some things I plan to do.....

Branding....anyone that knows me, knows I HATE corporate buzz words like "branding" however I need to do it...all marketing materials need to be redesigned and given a "look" that is unique to Occasions! Photography.
The First Year Baby Program....there is so much more that can be added to this
Referral Programs....give my current clients more incentives to refer their family and friends
Products....streamline my product list, add unique and cool items that you want

Those are just a few things but I have so much going thru my head right now it's impossible to capture in a blog. Watch for more details over the coming months....I will need feedback and may have a few contests to help me decide on styles and products and who better to help me out than my wonderful clients!

Sandy said during her show Monday that she continually has people come up and say to her, that they put ideas in place and did the things she talks about and their business is better today because of it. I hope to be able to say this to her when I see her again :)

Wish me luck....here I go!

Baby Graelyn

2011-08-14T22:00:00.001-04:00

Wow this summer has flown by...in April, I photographed Graelyns Mom very very pregnant...

In May I went to Fort Wayne to meet & photograph Baby Graelyn, She was only 7 days old....

Fast forward to today...and I mean fast, her mom brought her in for her 3 month session. She's such a doll, can't wait til her 6 month session!

"We'll try it for a year....."

2011-08-14T18:55:00.001-04:00

"We'll try it for a year..." is what this groom said to his bride when they got married.......40 YEARS AGO! Too funny! I photographed their anniversary party Saturday night and this was written on the cake. It was a good time enjoyed meeting everyone.

The Happy Couple - Chuck & Eloise

The Cake 40 years ago....

The Cake today

Happy 40th! Go ahead try it another 40 years :)

The cake today...

Drum Corps Family Visiting Indianapolis

2011-08-14T18:39:00.002-04:00

On Friday I received a phone call from a lady that is in town attending the Drum Corps at Lucas Oil Stadium. She said all of her kids and grandkids were also in town and they wanted to see if I would be able to take family pictures of them Saturday morning. How fun! I already had a 40th anniversary party to shoot Sat, but as long as we did it early we could make it happen. I met them downtown at their hotel and we did the shot outside of union station and inside union station at the train! Who knew there was an actual train in there (I didn't!). Of coursethe sun was bright and blinding so the outside ones we did on the west side againt a really cook stone wall. What a fun family...Mom & dad, 4 adult children. spouses and 4 grandchildren. The adult kids were my "behind the camera, get the kids to laugh" people! They did a great job!

I'm still working on their shoot, but here are a few from the session:

NILMDTS

2011-08-10T22:24:00.001-04:00

I had a NILMDTS session today and met a wonderful family that is suffering the loss of a child. After each and every session that I do for NILMDTS, I always step back and look at my life and thank God for everything I have. In the wake of a families tragedy and loss one seems to find that those little things that seem so bad, really aren't that bad.

I can't give specific details about my session out of respect for the families, but today's session was a little more difficult than other sessions I have done. He was beautiful and I could feel how much his family loved him and see it in every image I took. He will take his place in my heart right next to the 18 other beautiful little angels that have graced my life over the past 4 years I have been part of this organization.

Many of you know of my association with the organization Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep (NILMDTS) but I don't think I have ever actually explained what it is or why I do it. For those of you that don't know what NILMDTS is, it is an incredible organization that provides families of babies who are stillborn or are at risk of dying as newborns with free professional portraits with their baby. Before you say, "OMG! Why would you want that?" This is a sample of the type of portraits that are created for the families.

To see more or learn more about how you can contribute to this organization go to www.nilmdts.org

In 2005 a Colorado family had to make the excruciating decision to take their 6 day old baby off life support. But before they did, they called a local photographer to take black and white portraits of them cradling their son. Those tender photographs documenting the child's eternal connection with his parents inspired the mother, Cheryl Haggard and photographer, Sandy Puc' to found this nonprofit organization.   The Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep Foundation (NILMDTS) administers a network of approximately 7000 volunteer photographers in the United States and nineteen International countries. To read more about Cheryl's story and letter she wrote to her baby boy Maddux, click HERE .

I am so proud to be one a member of this organization, I joined the organization 2008 and it has been one of the hardest, but yet most rewarding things I have ever done. I have provided this service to 19 families.  Each family has touched me in many ways and I will never forget them. I'm so sorry for the losses that they have suffered, but so honored that I was allowed the privilege to meet and photograph their beautiful babies and give them something to treasure of their precious child.

Today I am one of two Area Coordinators for the Indianapolis area. We service all Indianapolis hospitals and surrounding areas. There are 15 wonderful, giving, caring photographers that donate their time to provide services for these families and I can truly say I am a better person for knowing these wonderful people and being part of this organization.

Many people hear about this and ask me how I can do this.   The answer is almost impossible to put into words, it's a feeling that is indescribable. The only way I think I can make it make sense is to say this......I am blessed with two beautiful children that I can hug and kiss day and night, these families have lost that ability, they will leave a hospital with nothing more than a memory of their child that they held in their arms for a short time. I can give them something tangible to take home, if only a portrait to hang along with their other family portraits to say "that's my son/daughter, a part of our family." Those final memories of their time with their precious child, we capture and preserve....Always loved; never forgotten.

New Business Cards....finally :)

2011-08-09T13:03:00.001-04:00

I have needed to redo my business cards for a while now, but just never had the motivation to do it. Well a friend asked me to design her some and that got my motivation going (thanks Justina)!

I'm happy to report that my new cards have been ordered!

What do you think?

Front of card

Family

Maternity/Infant

Weddings

Seniors

Meet Kristen - Senior Red FCHS Class of 2012

2011-08-09T07:56:00.000-04:00

Had Kristen's first proofing session yesterday, she wants to be a model! How fitting as she is a Senior Rep for Occasions! Great practice! Can't wait to do her Fall session, we will be doing pix with her red VW Bug and heading downtown for some cool stuff as well. Here are the images she picked for her wallets so far:

Lindsey + Jonathan = Engaged!

2011-08-06T22:58:00.001-04:00

Today I met Lindsey & Jonathan in Brown County - one of my favorite places :) They are getting married in September and we were shooting their engagement pictures today. When I say I "met" them, that's literal, because we had never met in person. What a great couple! They got engaged right there in Brown County State Park so we started the shoot right where Jonathan popped the question.

What a great couple they are, during the shoot I found out they are foster parents to 5 kids! WOW! And they have horses and dogs and they even put up with having my 6 year old daughter tag along today (see picture below). You know they have to be patient and awesome to deal with her ;)

Here are few quick ones I pulled....more later, time for bed :)

Good thing this pix was blurry and I took a 2nd one after Ms. Thang moved! See what I have to put up with ;)

Love the views in Brown County!

This is about the spot that he popped the question!

Looking for Senior Reps!

2011-08-05T09:31:00.001-04:00

Are you a senior graduating in 2012? Do you need to find a place to have your senior pictures taken? Do your parents want to save some money on your senior pictures? Would you like to earn some $$$ for doing nothing more than taking great pictures and showing them to your friends?

Well....do I have a deal for you :) Be a Senior Rep for Occasions! Photography! I am looking for 2012 Seniors from Warren Central, Southport, Beech Grove, New Pal, or any other school you might attend.

What's a Senior Rep you ask? Well, you would be my "spokesperson" at your school to help get other seniors to have their pictures taken here. In exchange for you sending your freinds and classmates to me, you get The Ultimate Senior Experience Session for about 1/2 price, professional make-up for your session, PLUS extra sessions and lots of extras. AND....for every referral you send my way, you get a $20 gift card....and not a gift card to spend with me, but a gift card YOU want....iTunes, Gas Cards, Visa Gift Cards, etc.

Here are some of the items you get for being a Senior Rep:

Keepsake Box - great for keeping grad announcements, pictures, jewelry,etc

100 Senior Rep Cards - personalized with you senior pictures to give out to your friends. Each one that makes it's way back to me with a booking senior you get a $20 gift card.

You choice of an Aluminum Water Bottle, Dog Tag or Accordian Book all personalized with your senior pictures

AND MORE....Aluminum Wallet Tin to hold your wallet prints or Rep Cards and great discounts on prints and other products! I'm always changing the Senior Rep Kit up and adding new products!

Call me today @ 997-5009 or email me to find out more about becoming a Senior Rep for your school!

Peyton & Spencer - IMA July 2011

2011-08-03T10:56:00.002-04:00

These are from a shoot earlier this summer at IMA....such a cute little kids. Peyton has the modeling poses down, she might even give my daughter Lauren a run for her money :)

Dan & Rosie - Their Wedding Album

2011-08-02T19:02:00.001-04:00

A big thank you goes out to one of my April couples for their patience. They decided at their proofing session that they want an album and I had wedding almost every weekend after theirs and told them I'd get their draft album pages done and to them....well what's today? August 2nd and I finally got them finished :) Here are a few pages from their album telling their wedding story...

Daniel & Rosemary

Jamie & Nate - Married 7-9-11

2011-08-01T19:39:00.003-04:00

Jamie & Nate came over tonight along with Jamie parents to see their wedding pictures for the first time! I love it when I leave the room for them to watch their video and I can hear them laughing....I know I did something right :)

They had a very beautiful wedding at Valle Vista Country Club and we got some awesome images and it wasn't too hard when you see what a gorgeous bride she made and he was a pretty "sharp dressed man."

Waiting for his wife 2 be....

Mr & Mrs !

And the fairytale begins :)

Class of 2013 Senior Models

2011-08-01T11:31:00.001-04:00

Along with some great seniors this summer I also had a chance to have some fun with some soon to be Juniors. We really had a lot of fun with these girls.....they were so into it and I can't wait to take them to some other places this fall like Grafitti-Land and downtown.

Savannah

Kelsey

Darci

Senior Rep Program is underway!

2011-07-31T18:13:00.003-04:00

School is about to start and I have three great Senior Reps that will be starting their senior year with some pretty cool senior pictures to show their friends. I have had so much fun with these gals and look forward to doing more with them for some more senior rep sessions!

Lacey - Senior Rep Madison-Grant High School

Kristen - Senior Rep Franklin Central High School

Emily - Senior Rep Madison-Grant High School

I'm gonna give this Blogging thing another try :)

2011-07-31T16:21:00.003-04:00

I keep going back and forth on the blogging thing, well, I'm giving it another go, we'll see how it goes.

Blog Updating - MIA! Facebook vs. Blog - Facebook wins for now :)

2010-09-18T00:46:00.001-04:00

So I have been very bad at keeping up with my blog and apologize for this. I'm trying to find value in having a blog AND a Facebook page. I feel like if I post on my Facebook page it would be a duplication on my blog. Sooooo.....at this time, I'm using my Facebook page as my "blog" for the time being. So check it out and I'll keep you updated when I get my blog back up and going.

Occasions! FaceBook Page

Baby Theo

2010-01-13T19:46:00.001-05:00

I'm trying to catch up on my blogging....this session was back before Christmas. This little girl was sooooo good! I couldn't believe it, she only cried when mom and dad changed her cloths, once she was changed she was all happy! Here are a few of my favorites...

I love the look on her face in the middle picture - it's like "what in the world am I doing in a stocking?!"

Peek-a-Boo

Too funny, she looks like she's ready to fight!

Halloween, Fall Leaves and Beautiful Baby Lia!

2009-11-01T19:41:00.001-05:00

Great weekend! Despite the rain friday, it was a good weekend. Friday took Lauren to her school for the "Spooky Stroll" They watched a movie then Trick-or-Treated to all the classrooms then made cookies! Lauren wanted to be Dorothy this year:

for the real Trick or Treating she got really into character - with the wig!

Kinda creepy - don't ya think?

JT was scary pumpkin guy

Then today John worked in the yard and JT and Lauren helped (I think!)

I captured this pix of Lauren and I LOVE it!

Then I had a photo an in-home photo shoot with Lil Miss Lia! 6monts hold and she just learned to set up last night - just in time for pictures - woo hoo! I just got the pix downloaded, but here are a few - more to come!

Now football is over - Yea Colts - still undefeated! Yea Bears better weekend than last week. Now I'm shutting down and relaxin'. Have a great weekend.

My Family

2009-10-30T22:59:00.001-04:00

Thanks Justina for taking these for us and letting us take them at her property! As with all pix I'm in....I prefer to be behind the camera, but I must be in front every now and then.

More to come, first pass thru....

I don't care what he says, he loves his lil sister

Street Family Fall Photos - UPDATE

2009-10-30T22:53:00.002-04:00

UPDATE: Gallery is now up. Click here to view edit and all pix.

I'm partial because this is my nephew and his family - but these look good. Again, not fully edited, working on these but they are close.

Mahurin Family

2009-10-30T22:47:00.000-04:00

These pictures turned out really good. The fall colors really popped and the setting is just beautiful anyway! These have just been color corrected and cropped, still have some editing to do and some of them need turned to black & white.

Johnson Anniversay - 10 Years of Marriage

2009-10-30T22:35:00.000-04:00

This was a really sweet event that I got to be part of. This couple was celebrating 10 years of marriage by hosting a dinner for their friends at Sullivan's steakhouse. Instead of making the night about themselves, they brought in people that were special to them and that they credited as being a huge part of their 10 year marriage. It was a very cool thing to witness. They are a very generous and caring couple and I'm very glad I got to share in their evening.

Jamie - Senior 2010 Part II

2009-10-30T22:25:00.000-04:00

Final galleries are done! Jamie is coming over tomorrow to go thru and pick her favorites! here are some of mine!

Pumpkin Patch Update for October 24 (Saturday)

2009-10-23T17:04:00.002-04:00

I know some people were planning on coming out to the pumpkin patch tomorrow for pictures. Because it's supposed to be raining and cold I will not be out there on Saturday. I do plan to be there from 1-5 on Sunday - supposed to be much nicer.

The weekends just didn't cooporate like I wanted to for the patch this year! Very windy and cold - not a good mix for pictures.

Anyhow, Sunday will be my last day out there, so if you are wanting your free pictures come on out!

Jeremy & Maddie - Sneak Peak

2009-10-23T11:38:00.000-04:00

These are from a shoot on Wed afternoon! Just getting started - but here is a sneak peak! I just love fall!

My daughter had to have a pix wiht Maddie! Seperately these two take great pix - put them together I don't know what they do!

Jamie - Senior 2010 Part II

2009-10-20T22:21:00.000-04:00

Today Jamie and I took a little road trip to finish up her senior pix. We went downtown to "grafito-land" and then out to a nice park to capture the fall colors. I pulled out a few from shots for the blog. Can't wait to get started on these.

Shots from Boudoir Shoot!

2009-10-19T12:07:00.001-04:00

Yea! I have been given permission to post a few of the pictures from the first "Boudoir" shoot a few weeks ago. I am very happy with these shots, I think they turned out great and her husband-2-b is gonna be thrilled when she gives them to him the night before their wedding! Can't wait to hear what he thinks! Here are a few of my favorites.

I think this is my favoirte shot! Sexy, yet very classy.

Jamie - Senior 2010

2009-10-11T02:44:00.002-04:00

What a great day this turned out to be for outside shots! Jamie and her best friend Shelby came over and we had an awesome shoot. This is Part I, Jamie w/ straight hair. Part II will be in a few weeks = Jamie w/ curly hair. We plan to go to "graffiti-land" and do some shots around a pond. Hopefully we have a day like today! Here are some of my favs from today- Jamie has beautiful eyes - without much editing they just POP!

Pictures from the pumpkin patch

2009-10-06T15:31:00.001-04:00

Thanks to all those that came out to the pumpkin patch! Next weekend will hopefully be a little warmer and sunnier! Here are a few pictures from the first weekend:

This dog, Pete is his name, is awesome. Those of you that have known me for awhile, know that this looks like Snuggles, my Aussie that I had for 15 years. Seeing Pete brought back great memories.

These two little girls were so proud of their lil gourds they found.

What a cutie! She was moving gourds from one wheel barrow to another and back and back and back....whatever keeps 'em happy!

Lark Ranch - Cold and Windy, but a good first day!

2009-10-03T21:18:00.000-04:00

I spent 4 hours out at Lark Ranch today, boy was it chilly, would have been perfect if the wind wasn't so bad. It was still a nice day, we took about 100 pictures and they are all posted out on my gallery page.

Hopefully the wind won't be as cold tomorrow - I will be out there from about 12 - 2:30, then me and my husband are going to see Sara Evans in concert. Woo Hoo!

Here are some pictures of the property and what they have going on out there.

Two of the areas that we did pictures at today.

Treasure Mine - kids can mine for gem stones.

Entrance to the Corn Maze

Pony Rides

Hay Rides

In the barn they have a bouncy balloon, crafts, & face painting for the kiddos

Snack Shack - popcorn, hot dogs, hot chocolate, drinks, etc.

First Boudoir Photo Shoot

2009-10-01T21:48:00.000-04:00

Well, I did my first "boudoir" shoot tonight. Intimate photography some call it. It was really fun. Wasn't sure what to expect neither was my subject, but we got through it and it was fun. She is doing this for a gift for her husband-to-be. We took so many pictures I can't wait to get started on these and see what we got. With her permission I will post some later.

Liam - September 20, 2009

2009-09-26T23:21:00.001-04:00

This little guy is one of my 5 great nephews. It is so weird because with Liam, I feel like I'm taking pix of his dad - he is a mirror image of him! Those eyes are just mesmerizing!

Peyton & Spencer

2009-09-26T23:18:00.001-04:00

These two were so sweet!

Erin & Jeremiah - September 19, 2009

2009-09-26T23:15:00.000-04:00

Still working on these pics, but here a few of my favs from my last wedding of the month!

The kiss!

The relaxed groom.

The beautiful bride.

The church has beautiful stained glass windows! Just awesome.

Yea! Their married!!

The First Dance.

Fall Photos at Lark Ranch - Greenfield

2009-09-25T22:32:00.001-04:00

Lark Ranch

We visited this pumpkin patch last year and it was really fun. I just got back from there this evening and they have even more neat stuff this year. They have a huge corn maze, hayrides, bonfire, food, pumpkins and plenty of stuff for the kiddos! It opens tomorrow and will be open every weekend through Halloween.

I will be out there weekends during October (10/3 - 10/25) taking pictures from about 12noon until 5 or 6 in the evening. Come on by, enjoy the activities and stop by and see me and have your family picture taken in a really cool fall atmosphere. There is no charge for the pictures, this is a promotion that I'm doing to gain some exposure and expand my client base. All pictures will be posted on a special Lark Ranch website and you will receive a discount coupon for a free 5x7 print from the website.

Hope to see you there!

Carie & Andy - September 12, 2009 - Part II

2009-09-20T23:25:00.000-04:00

Almost finished! Have some final edits to do and will be ready to post the galleries. In the mean-time here are some more images to check out!

Carie & Andy - hope you are enjoying your honeymoon!

The Happy Couple's First Dance

The Girls at the hair salon.

Getting ready to get hitched!

The best man making sure the groom is ready to go.

The guys chillin'

The groom with his boys!

Carie & he mom

Carie and Mom & Dad

The flower girl checking out the flowers

How beautiful were these girls?!

Beautiful Bride

She doesn't look excited does she?

The guys at their finest.

Everyone's excited - Carie & Andy are married!

The beautiful couple

Stealin' a kiss

You can't keep 'em apart!

The frist dance

Upcoming Fall Photography Events

2009-09-16T13:08:00.000-04:00

Look for more details coming next week as to WHEN & WHERE.

Some of you may remember back a few years ago, Jeff Johansen from Johansen Photography and I did a collaboration called Pictures in the Park at Holcomb Gardens over on Butler Univ campus. We have been asked numerous time if we will be doing that again and the answer is Yes - but we are working out the details now.

Also, we will be setting up at a pumpkin patch in Greenfield several different days throughout October and taking fall photos - this would be a wonderful opportunity to get a nice family photo taken in the beautiful fall colors and enjoy a great day at the pumpkin patch.

Keep watching my blog for more information - we hope to have things in motion and dates, times and specifics next week!

Carie & Andy - September 12, 2009

2009-09-13T22:56:00.000-04:00

Last night was Carie & Andy wedding and it was beautiful. I wish all my brides, grooms, wedding party, families were this great! For the first time in my 4 years of doing weddinga - everyone was ON TIME, DRESSED, and IN THE CHURCH to start pictures! It was awesome! Carie, Andy and their families are the sweetest peaople - it was truly an honor to share in their special day, it's events like these that make me love my job - it doesn't seem like work when it's fun and entertaining.

Here is a sneak peak: thanks Jeff Johansen (my 2nd shooter) for getting these processed and posted so I could spend today (My Wedding Anniversary) with my wonderful husband.

Jeff getting his cake and eating it too!

The Wedding Pary

The beautiful flower girl.

Andy searching for the garter.

The wedding party's reacting when I said, "okay, you are ALL done!"

Flip flops and flowers - doesn't get any better.

The girls giving the groom a lift!

The bride getting ready to throw the bouquet.

Jeannie & Todd September 5, 2009 Part II

2009-09-07T21:47:00.004-04:00

I just couldn't wait to get into these pictures! I knew they were going to be awesome!

The two pictures just melt my heart! The two boys are the grooms sons, and the bride hugged and kissed them both at the conslusion of the ceremony! It was priceless and you can just feel the happiness between them all.

The bride and her father dancing.

The beautiful Bride

Such a gorgeous setting for a wedding! Just beautiful!

Stolen moments after the ceremony between the bride and groom.

The bride and her attendants.

The Groom and Best man prior to the wedding. Not sure what is up with the hat.

Worth the wait - the groom seeing his bride for the first time.

What a unique setup - In the Round! not a bad seat! It was really awesome!

Again - could this setting be any more beautiful?! Amazing!

Jeannie & Todd September 5, 2009

2009-09-05T22:39:00.003-04:00

Finally! I can post these! We did a secret "Bridal Shoot" with Jeannie about three weeks ago. These pictures were for a special book that Jeannie gave to Todd as a gift tonight. So, just in case Todd went out to my site, I couldn't post these, but now I can!! Yea! It was so awesome to see Todd's reaction to the book - Thank you Jeannie for allowing me to be there to capture it. The wedding today - ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL!!! Great day, wonderful people - Jeannie and Todd are just the best and sweetest couple - their love for each other just radiates! I am downloading the wedding pictures now - I bet there are about 2000 that I will have to sort threw - can't wait to see them. This was a gorgeous outdoor location and the options were endless! Will post more later when I get threw some! But for now here is the beautiful bride...

Sweet Baby Lia

2009-08-30T14:58:00.006-04:00

I got to meet Baby Lia today! Such a pretty little girl! How precious. She was baptized today and we took some quick shots of her in her dress and with her mommy & daddy. Will post more later, but just had to get a few up - isn't she just precious?!

For being off her schedule and all the stuff she had to do today, she really was a good baby - got fussy a few times, but mommy and daddy soothed her back to smiles.

andn grandpa or grandma were there there to help - I think she was eyeing grandpa in this picture.

Just beginning to process will have more to post later :)

Ray Family 2009 - Cubs fans? Ya think?

2009-08-23T14:52:00.000-04:00

Jeremy & Maddie

2009-08-22T22:28:00.000-04:00

Outdoor Fun

2009-08-06T09:02:00.006-04:00

Abbie was loving life in front of the camera on Sunday! There aren't many pictures where she isn't smiling, because she wouldn't stop smiling! Not a bad thing, but most 12 year old kids I have to beg to smile. Not Abbie! She was a lot of fun.

Noah - 3 months already!

2009-07-31T16:32:00.004-04:00

Quick look at Noah's 3 month pictures - I can't believe how fast he is growing! Here are a few straight outta the camera. Hope to have them edited and posted over the weekend.

Benjamin

2009-07-15T23:18:00.004-04:00

What a sweet baby! Benji didn't know quite what to think at first, but give the kid some paint brushes and chair and I think he would be happy for hours. I'm not exactly sure what the paint brushes taste like (that's not really paint on them btw), but they seem to be a big hit with the kiddos. Still editing this shoot, but here are some works in progress.

Jackson - They grow so fast!

2009-07-09T20:58:00.000-04:00

This little guy is already a year old! I remember doing his newborn pix when he was like 2 weeks old! I love seeing how they grow. He was such a good little boy for this shoot, happy and fun and ON THE GO! He was everywhere - had me working up a sweat!

Cousins - Lauren & Makenna

2009-07-06T23:16:00.004-04:00

I took the girls shopping and we bought these beautiful dresses, they were so excited to dress up and do their hair! Here are a few SOC (straight off the camera) Think I'll do these in Black & White and they will look awesome.

2009-06-28T01:08:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone! There are lots of changes in progress at Occasions! Photography and I wanted to send out a quick note to let you know about them! My husband is awesome and has done (and is doing) a great deal of work to help me with the changes - I'm so lucky to have him!

Just a quick list of some of the changes....

My new home studio is almost ready to go – It’s bigger and brighter than the previous areas in my home. I'm still getting used to being able to NOT have to stand in the closet to get the whole shot! Be looking for an invitation to an open "studio" in August or September!
An outside area at the studio, trees, flowers, etc. - you'll never know you're in my front yard - LOL!
Many new props, backgrounds, and themes for family, babies, toddlers, and seniors.
New website coming soon with updated galleries (see my blog for recent shoots).
I’m officially blogging & twittering now or at least trying – follow me to keep updated on what and when things are happening.

Thanks to all for your business over the past years, you have all made this journey fun and exciting! I’m looking forward to creating more wonderful portraits with you in the future! Also remember, if you refer a client to me, you will receive a free print from a previous or future session!

Call and schedule your appointment today to update your family pictures, birthday pictures, senior pictures, maternity, whatever “Occasion” you have going on.

Follow me.....
Blog: http://occasionsphotos.blogspot.com/ Twitter: @occasionsphotog
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/crisspayton

Jacobs Rep Cards

2009-06-26T15:25:00.002-04:00

Jacob 2009

2009-06-21T08:09:00.001-04:00

All finished with Jacobs pictures. He is a riot - the faces just crack me up.

The many faces of Jacob

2009-06-16T22:41:00.003-04:00

Jacob is so cute and funny! I think I was laughing the entire time we were shooting. I can't wait to get through the pictures and count the number of different faces this kid has.
Here are a few to share....

Making Changes...for the better....

2009-06-08T23:11:00.005-04:00

For those of you that have been to my home studio, you know my area is pretty small. It was functional, but small and cramped. Well, thanks to my wonderful husband, we have moved my studio into a bigger and better room in our home. The room doubles as our game room, so yes, there is a pool table in the room, however, it is on wheels and rolls right outta the way - my husband is a genious! This room has one brick wall, hardwood floors, and 2 hugh window seats. It may take me a little while to get it all how I want it, but we will get there.

We got the backdrops hung last night and I spent time tonight organizing and arranging things. I have a few more things to do, but I'm excited with the change. I had Lauren, my 4 year old pose for some pictures today to test out the space and lighting. There are windows on 3 of the 4 walls so my lighting struggles might just be over - Yea!!!

Here are some of Lauren's shots from today....

Seniors, Senior, Seniors!

2009-06-01T14:41:00.003-04:00

It's really a cool thing for me to see my work in the hands and homes of others. This weeked I attened my first 2 open houses of five 2009 seniors. It was really nice to walk in and see my portraits framed and hung in their homes. That truly is a sense of satisfaction! How cool! Next week I have 3 more to attend also!

Great Friday Family Shoot

2009-05-30T00:39:00.006-04:00

I am doing this couple's wedding in September. A year later than they planned, but after a lot of hard work and patience they are on track to have their wedding this fall.

Tonight they came over and brought their 2 boys and we had a great time doing family pictures as well as their engagement pictures. The boys were great! Patient and well behaved and funny!

As for Jeannie and Todd, they are such a great couple! I can't wait for their wedding, it's gonna be a beautiful day!

Here are a few shots from tonights shoot:

Pictures in the Park - Ray Family

2009-05-29T17:51:00.003-04:00

The Ray Family Pictures are done! On-line web gallery (password protected) is up. Here are a few of the final shots.

Pictures in the Park

2009-05-26T23:34:00.008-04:00

What a beautiful family! I first met this family in October of 2007. I was blown away by these two little ones. They were so easy to photograph and just adorable - Corbin wasn't even walking at the time. Since then I have taken their pictures a few times and seeing how they grow is awesome.

We have tried several times to set up family pictures, but timing just hasn't worked out, until Saturday. We finally did it - we got Dad in the pictures!

I have just done a quick pass thru but I think they are going to be great!
Here are a few that I have pulled out to share....

Los Angeles Trip

2009-05-13T23:42:00.006-04:00

I am in Los Angeles for the week on Lilly business. It's been a busy week, but I got to go out today for awhile and do some sightseeing. Believe it or not I did not bring my "good" camera, I have a small point & shoot with me so forgive the quality of some of these. I am in Los Angeles for the week on Lilly business. It's been a busy week, but I got to go out today for awhile and do some sightseeing. Believe it or not I did not bring my "good" camera, I have a small point & shoot with me so forgive the quality of some of these.
my hotel
Huge Jackman's print at the Chinese Theatre
Hollywood sign
Universal Studios
Dr Phils House

Beautiful Baby Boy Ryan

2009-04-27T14:58:00.001-04:00

I did this little guys pictures when he was just a few months old and he was a cutie then, but OH MY! Look at those eyes...he is just adorable. We had so much fun. He was in a great mood, laughing and smiling - mom, grandpa and grandma did a great job getting some great looks from him. I haven't officially started editing this shoot yet, but just glancing thru I had to pull a few out and post.

I can't believe that she is this grown up!

2009-04-25T14:50:00.003-04:00

This is Kayla! I have known Kayla since the day she was born. Her mom and I have known each other since kindergarten. I was just in sheer amazement as we were doing these pictures. She has grown us to be a respectful and beautiful young woman and as her "Aunt" Criss, I couldn't be more proud. Although after we were done I realized with her being a senior, how old that makes me!

She also brought her boyfriend Beau. What a sweet couple they are!

Amber's Senior Portraits

2009-04-18T14:26:00.002-04:00

What a sweet girl Amber is. She was so excited and had so much fun and we took TONS of pictures! You can see what a great personality she has from the sax picture. For the first time with a senior I had to change out my 8GB card! I'm still working on the finals proofs, but wanted to post a few of them for you to see!

My New Great-Nephew is Here!

2009-04-15T22:43:00.004-04:00

Meet Noah! It seems like we have been waiting on him forever. I think his mommy found out she was pregnant at about 3 weeks - but finally......he's here! He is so precious. I am working on getting his pictures done, I'm taking a few here and a few there. We'll get them done. Here are a few of my favs so far.....

Kristin Senior Pictures 2009

2009-04-13T18:00:00.002-04:00

Kristin was an awesome model! Her mom told me that she used to take tons of pictures when she was little - you could tell, she knew how to pose and she just worked great behind the camera. It was the easiest shoot because I didn't have to tell her what to do or how, she just knew!

Her shoot was done on 2 different days. Day one was in the studio and day two was outside at Garfield Park. I'm excited to get thru her images, I think they are going to be stunning! Here is a sample of what I have so far!

Tristan 2009

2009-04-11T15:45:00.001-04:00

Tristan's senior portrait session was fun. He was a good sport and did a really great job. It was a sunny, but chilly day, but he took it in stride and handled it well. We had a good time. Here are some of the shots we ended up with.

Courtney 2009

2009-02-27T22:20:00.010-05:00

Courtney was my first senior shoot of 2009. She had lots of cool outfits to change into. By the time we were done I don't know who was more tired -her or me! I'm sure me, she is young and full of energy!

I'm pleased with how the images are turning out and hope she will be too. Here are a few of my favs from the shoot.

I have to include this one. My studio is in my home and we have 2 black labs. Well, Bubba (our male lab) just needs constant attention. We are in the studion and all of sudden there is Bubba in the room and he just walks over and sits right down in front of Courtney and looks at me like, "what cha waitin' for, take the picture." So I took it and it's great! Doesn't he look like a Big Sweetie?!

This is why I love photography! It can make me feel better no matter what!

2008-10-29T11:18:00.004-04:00

I will be quite honest, I was not looking forward to shooting last weekend. I had 4 shoots scheduled for Sunday and it was going to be a beautiful day. However, I got a call mid week from my best friend that her father had passed away. This was unexpected and desvastaing news. I've known this man since i was in the 4th grade. The funeral was scheduled for Sunday. I had shoots scheduled at 10 am Engagement Shoot, 1pm Senior Shoot, 3pm Senior Shoot, & 5pm Senior Shoot. Well the 3pm was for my best friends daughter, so that was cancelled obviously. I cancelled my 1pm shoot, but didn't want to cancel the other two as they had been scheduled for awhile and I wanted to get them in. But I really wasn't up for shooting, so I thought. I got up Sunday morning, dreading the day that I go to be with my friend as she buries her father. My 10am appointment Carie & Andy show up and my day begins. I had the best time with this couple! They are young, energectic (well sorta, Andy wanted to nap everytime I had them get down on the floor) and just a very cute couple. They have been together for 3 years and they are planning to be married next fall. They just glowed with love for one another. They instantly made my outlook on a gloomy day better. We did some studio shots then headed outside, the day was brisk, but beautiful and the fall colors were perfect.

After Carie & Andy, I had to get ready and headed to the funeral. My next appointment was at 5pm. It was a senior shoot for twin girls! I have been looking forward to this for awhile and after some scheduling conflicts we finally got it together and they were coming. I got a call for their mom on my way back to my house asking if they can bring some friends with them to be in a few of their pictures. What a fabulous idea!!! "Buddy-Pictures!" The girls arrived and the fun began. I had a blast with these girls! I got all 6 of them (yes! I said 6) outside in my front yard and we did a lot of different stuff using the trees, the brick on my house and my front porch. The girls had so much fun they were jumping!

We did some great stuff with all the girls - here is another one:

Then it was time to get down to business with Kasie & Kylie. They came prepared, with their letter jackets and cheerleading outfits to their formal prom dresses. We went to town! They definetly were the highlight of my day!

Occasions! Photography

2008-09-10T11:45:00.003-04:00

Hello, welcome to my blog. This is my first venture into blogging so bear with me. I'm sure it will be an adventure.

A little bit about me....I am a 37 year old (am I really that close to 40?!) wife, mother, corporate america peon and Photographer. If that sounds like a lot - it is!!! But I love my life! I love my family! I love my friends! And I love, love, love being behing the camera.

I got serious with photography when my daughter, Lauren, was born. At the time I had the typical point & shoot digital camera and since this was my first biological child, I was very “shutter happy.” Always taking pictures!

After taking my daughter to a children’s photo studio for her first “professional” portraits, $210 later, I left and was stunned at how little I had to take home. I studied the portraits and compared them to snapshots I had done and I realized that this is something I can do and something I love to do.

I invested in a professional digital camera, signed up to take some classes, joined a photography club and began shadowing other photographers to gain knowledge. I began taking pictures, lots of pictures! The best part was the fact that I did them, this was my work, and that was very gratifying. Being able to see that memory on the wall of my child became a point of satisfaction for me.

As friends and family began seeing these photographs of Lauren and JT, they began to request that I take their portraits, their children's portraits and before long, requests were coming from friends of friends.

My primary goal is to do something I enjoyed and at the same time, give my clients affordable, quality portraits. To see the joy that these portraits bring to mothers, fathers and grandparents energizes me to move forward and offer my services to others that desire to capture life’s precious memories...for today, tomorrow and forever.

As my journey into photography moves forward, I have learned so much from so many people and I know I have more to learn. I wil try my best to keep my journey posted here and share the ride.

Thanks to all of you that have supported me in the past, present and future!

Criss :)