Jamie Ward Photography

Baby Sophia : Bedford Michigan Newborn Photography

2012-01-04T15:29:00.000-05:00

Oh what a way to close out 2011! This was our last session of the year and one of our cutest!!! How I love when we get to work with little babes. Sophia was an angel. We were also very honored to be able to use some military items from Sophia's momma and grandpa. Sophia's Grandpa barely made it home from Iraq for her birth. What a homecoming gift! Welcome Sophia and welcome home Mark!!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T10:04:00.002-05:00

from me and my family to you and your family. I have been truly blessed this year to have the opportunity to do what I love to do. None of this is possible without the support of my family and the continued support of my amazing clients!! Yup, that's you! Merry Christmas and all the best in 2012!!

Yes, we hire a professional photographer every year to do our family photos. This year our awesome portraits were taken by Ashley Hunt Photography. Thanks Ash for the outstanding job! I wish you hadn't moved :>(

Christmas at the Mansion : Toledo Ohio Family Photographer

2011-12-23T18:43:00.001-05:00

This year we decided to host our first annual Christmas Mini Sessions. We decided to book the event at the stunning Mansion View Inn in Toledo. It was quite a festive backdrop. For some of our clients it was for first time having a family portrait done. WHAT? I know we were shocked too. I know it won't be the last after the fun time we had! Thanks to all the families that came to see us decked out in there Christmas finest. Can't wait to see you all next year.

Rowin : Bedford MI Newborn Photography

2011-12-17T18:59:00.007-05:00

What can be said about the sweetness of a 4 day old baby?

So yummy!! I could just eat those cheeks!!

we do what it takes to get a smile... : Lambertville MI Family Photographer

2011-12-14T09:53:00.002-05:00

and usually that means a booty dance! When you're working with sisters sometimes that booty dance can end with two booties on the photographer's head. Yes we do what it takes to get the shot! A BIG thanks to the Thomas and Hansen Families for the fun!

Did you know it's beard season?

Dowe Family : Toledo Child Photographer

2011-12-12T09:45:00.002-05:00

Photographing little kids is hard. It just is. Little ones are only fascinated by me for about 1.75 seconds, story of my life. Now let's try photographing 3 kids under 3. Yup, you guessed it harder to the 3rd degree. But I'm always up for the challenge and I totally rocked it if I do say so myself! So cute....

those Dodds : Southgate Michigan Family Photographer

2011-12-10T16:18:00.005-05:00

It's always fun to be able to work with your friends. I've known the Dodds for YEARS!! If I'm shooting a wedding you'll find Mrs Dodd right by my side assisting. As my passion and business grew so did Mrs Dodd's. {It's so funny to think of her as Mrs Dodd, because my kids call her Jamiedodd, all one word.}

I've been photographing the family since Meghan was little, good to see the crying streak continues. I almost thought it wouldn't happen this year and our on going joke would be done. Way to pull through NeeNee. LOL

end of the year senior session : Michigan Senior Photography

2011-12-06T15:11:00.002-05:00

We barely made this session before all the leaves were gone. After 2 weather reschedules and a split session due to rain, the results were surely worth it. Good luck next year at college, E!

homecoming with my kid

2011-12-02T14:58:00.001-05:00

Homecoming was the only time my 16 year-old thought that it was cool that I was a photographer. Could that be that EVERY 16 year old girl likes a photographer and my kid really likes this girl? Whatever I'll take it!!!

A smile from my kid. Holy Smokes!!

My Little Friend Tanner : Toledo Ohio Family Photographer

2011-11-28T01:49:00.001-05:00

Tanner's momma and I are great friends. She was one of the first friends I made after we moved to Michigan six years ago. She has been busy these passed six years. Graduated from college, got married, bought a house, had Tanner and is expecting baby #2 any day. It's been my great pleasure to capture many of these milestones along the way. Happy 2nd birthday Tanner. Can't wait to meet your new brother or sister. I voted for a sister, even though I wasn't technically asked to vote.

I thought you would have orange hair like last time....

2011-11-25T13:30:00.001-05:00

The {E} kids are those kids that you look forward to seeing every year because you never know what they will say. Apparently my hair color might have been a little off last year. Sometimes I catch Momma {E} shaking her head, while I laugh. I can only be so professional. Sometimes fart noises are funny. And yes I realize it's funnier when it's not your own kids. See ya next year!! Hopefully my hair will have a better review this time.

Mom-Tog Request

2011-11-20T13:09:00.001-05:00

Occasional, I will have a client ask me to enhance their photos. We all have those photos that we snap in the backyard of our little sweeties that we love but the image could really use a little help. Miss C's Momma LOVES this image but it could use just a little bit of photoshop pop and snap, so I was happy to oblige. It's sorta fun to edit images that I didn't take.

Hover your mouse over the image to see the before and after.

T Squared : Bedford Michigan Child Photographer

2011-09-12T09:17:00.010-04:00

I have been photographing Li'l Miss T since before she was born and Master T since the time he first starting walking. Now, they're both getting SO big; Missy T will be 2 very soon. Don't blink because time sure does FLY.

Fall What To Wear : Michigan/Ohio Family Photographer

2011-09-09T08:38:00.002-04:00

Well you've done it... you've decided to get fall family photos done. You've committed to it {it has been YEARS for some of you} you've gotten the hubs on board after much begging and pleading, you've promised all the grandparents that great photos are coming soon and you've found a great photographer ME. yippee.

Now the HARDEST part; What To Wear? I totally realize dressing everyone for photos is the hardest part, it's the hardest part for me too when we do our annual family photos, I feel your pain. But fear not, I have come up with some great little story boards that are really going to help you conquer your photo wardrobe fear.

Most importantly be YOU! If your family is a jeans type of family, rock the jeans. Wear clothing that makes you feel good. DON'T be matchy, matchy. Please, I beg you don't put everyone in the family in jeans and black shirts or khakis and white shirts. It's just bad.

Here is what I like to do when I am putting together my family's photo wardrobe. I pick 2 colors and make sure that everyone has one of the colors somewhere. Then I buy what I like, cuz if momma ain't happy ain't no one happy, and then build for everyone else. Think layers, think textures, think patterns, think awesome photos. This year I am LOVING ME some brown and orange. Enjoy, now let's get those photos done.

Mr and Mrs Cook : Wyandotte Michigan Wedding Photographer

2011-09-04T10:32:00.001-04:00

I first met Rachel and Andy when Rachel was a bridesmaid in a wedding I photographed in 2010. I was so honored to be asked to photograph their wedding. To make the day even more special, the happy couple tied the knot on her parents 28th wedding anniversary. From vintage cars, to perfect weather, to the cutest little Grandma ever, to a reception room packed with love and laughter the day was PERFECT! Congratulations to the Cooks!!

Landscapes

2011-09-04T10:12:00.000-04:00

As the summer draws to a close I thought I would share some images from our summer. We were very blessed to have traveled a lot this year. We vacationed at the Oregon Coast, Boston and Plymouth Massachusetts and on my family's farm in Arkansas. That's a whole lot of miles logged from Michigan, I'm glad school is starting so we can take a break. :-)

Deiter and his kids : Toledo Pet and Family Photographer

2011-08-30T10:34:00.000-04:00

Deiter is the BIGGEST German Shepard I have E.V.E.R! seen. EVER. When I pull up to his house he is tall enough to look right in my car window. That being said, he is the goofiest and most loving dog, loyal and dutiful to his little people. That dog makes me laugh!!

Miller : Toledo Ohio Family Photographer

2011-08-14T20:30:00.002-04:00

What's not to love about twins and lollipops and big kids that really WANT to have you take their photo and family laughs and a smokin' hot mom and dad?! Yup that's right it's the Miller Family. We're already planning a snowy winter session, cannot wait.

Thanks for the fun and I LOVE all the photos up on your wall D. Nothing better than seeing my work framed on walls and smiles on clients faces, gets me all giddy.

Lincoln : Toledo Newborn Photographer

2011-08-12T18:07:00.001-04:00

I had the chance while I was in Oregon to shoot some sessions. Lincoln Jackson Percy was by far the snuggliest and cutest. At 6 weeks old he was still such a peanut. Most of the newborns I have be photographing lately have been in the 9-10 pound range and this little sweetie wasn't even there yet. What he was, was WIDE awake. I bit of a change for me since I generally do newborn sessions before 10 days old. But with a lot of tooshie patting and shushing he finally fell asleep and gave me a whole 15 minutes to shoot before he woke himself up. Oh well the images turned out great anyway!

Can't you just smell the ocean air in this one?

Dylann : Toledo Ohio Child and Family Photographer

2011-08-04T10:49:00.016-04:00

Oh, 18 month sessions. It's that tricky age where you never quite know what you'll get. There's absolutely no amount of pleading, begging or bribery that will work... you just have to sit tight and be patient. Eventually you all will find your groove and have beautiful photos to show for it!!

My Boys : Toledo Outdoor Photographer

2011-08-01T10:46:00.000-04:00

I like to show off pictures of my kids too. hehehe

What A Cheeky Baby (Newborn) : Toledo Ohio Newborn Photographer

2011-07-12T13:58:00.000-04:00

Little Littins (Children) : Toledo Child Photographer

2011-06-22T23:05:00.002-04:00

Don't you just love kids that are full of personality? Kids that are fun and feisty and funny? Well the Littin Kids have that in spades! And did I mention C.U.T.E.? Yup that too! If you love cheeks well then hold on.

Toby (First Breath) : Toledo Birth Photography

2011-06-13T14:44:00.000-04:00

I have no words... only tears of joy for my dear friend. Welcome sweet Toby!

(just a little disclaimer that tissues will probably be required)

Lucas (Newborn) : Ohio Newborn Photography

2011-06-12T19:55:00.000-04:00

Even though Lucas was only 4 days old when he came to see me for newborn photos, I felt like I had know him for months. Maybe that's because I had hung out with him HERE and HERE!!

Congratulations to the T family. I know Lucas will fit right in and be such a blessing to everyone.

Lucas Matthew (First Breath) : Birth Photography Toledo Ohio

2011-06-09T15:24:00.000-04:00

I was so blessed and honored to be invited to the birth of Lucas. What a gift to be able to photograph a baby's very first breath, to capture pure joy and love. These are memories that I will cherish always.

Baby Bump : Ohio Maternity Photography

2011-06-07T14:47:00.000-04:00

Babies are in the air and I had the pleasure of photographing Dana's perfect baby bump. We had an absolutely stunning sunset as her backdrop and the backdrop fit absolutely perfect with Dana's stunning beauty.

Momma Drama : Toledo Maternity Photographer

2011-05-31T15:59:00.001-04:00

Sometimes you just need to add some drama to a 37 week belly.

Earth Momma : Toledo Maternity Photographer

2011-05-25T15:46:00.000-04:00

Seems babies and bumps are in the air this spring. My friend Sarah and I decided to pack up early on a weekend morning and snap a few maternity photos. We decided to go with a mother earth theme even though nature sorta rubs me the wrong way some times. Bugs and me no getty along. We ended up taking most of these right off the main road here in Bedford. Some times hooting and hollering from passing cars is just what a girl needs!

Rachel and Andy : Monroe Michigan Engagment Photographer

2011-05-23T15:37:00.000-04:00

Ahhh...love! Can't wait for their wedding in July. Andy and Rachel are such a great couple, they compliment each other perfectly. One of the things I like most about my job is being able to tell a story through photos. Rachel and Andy's story is about Love, with a capital L.

Baby G : Bedford Michigan Newborn Photographer

2011-05-21T15:32:00.000-04:00

I don't believe there was ever a more cooperative baby in the history of photography. At just 4 days old he is such a cutie!! ps I love my job.

and baby makes five : Bedford Michigan Maternity Photographer

2011-05-09T16:01:00.000-04:00

and that means 3 kids under 3. and the Dowe Family just takes it in stride. HERE is last maternity session I did in '09. Can't wait to meet the new baby T.

Also a special "THANKS" to the very kind people at Erie Orchards. {I have photographed many a fall session there and I love everything about that property} The orchards were technically closed until July but I had my heart set on photographing in the apple blossoms. After a nice chat with the farmers at the orchards they graciously offered us use of the most beautiful orchard. THANKS again.

Professional

2011-04-14T21:28:00.000-04:00

Last week another potential client wanted to know why I wouldn't just burn all the session images to disk for her so she could print them at Costco for 29 cents. This is a question that I get asked ALL the time. Here is my answer.....

I think this simple comparison explains better than I ever could. I would just C.R.Y. if I saw this Walgreens' image on a client's wall. Printing is not all the same. Far from it. You can only get professional quality from a professional photographer.

Laney and the Boys

2011-04-05T19:30:00.000-04:00

Laney and Papito

2011-03-29T16:23:00.000-04:00

Don't these just make you SMILE??

Your Whole Heart : (Toledo Wedding Photographer)

2011-03-22T12:48:00.000-04:00

Since the 2011 wedding season is upon us I thought it would be fun to take a look back at some great weddings from 2010.

Spring What To Wear : Michigan/Ohio Photographer

2011-03-19T07:46:00.000-04:00

Photo wardrobe... it seems stressful, but really it isn't. Here is the one thing to remember; don't match COORDINATE! Choose a couple of your favorite colors and make sure everyone has that color somewhere in their outfit. Select clothing that tells your story, be comfortable and be YOU!

If you're a visual person like me these little samples might help.

Now take these ideas and make them your own. Happy spring photo sessions!

*storyboards graciously provided by i heart faces and Melinda Brookshire.

Miss K Turns 2 (children) : Toledo child photographer

2011-03-17T11:17:00.000-04:00

I met with lovely Mrs B last night to deliver Miss K's photos. This morning I stopped by the ol' blog to look at the photos again and low and behold I had forgotten to post them. I blame it on the Michigan weather, I believe it is sucking the smarts out of me. These are toooo cute not to share.

I LOVE LOVE LOVE all her expressions!

and I even got big brother in on the action!

Thanks for the great session B family! Is my job the greatest or what?

Baby S (newborn) : Toledo Newborn Photographer

2011-03-02T20:11:00.000-05:00

Don't you just LOVE new babies? I do and Baby {S} was no exception. I had the honor of photographing his big brother and sister in the fall; another awesome session.

Baby {S} slept the WHOLE time! I know right,that's crazy. AND the only newborn session ever that I wasn't peed, pooped or spit up on. I think he's a great addition to an already awesome family.

This momma look full of love melts my heart.

Bedford Beauties (children) : Toledo child photographer

2011-02-05T13:15:00.000-05:00

I recently upgrade my studio lights and wanted to do a little fun shoot with some of my favorite beauties from right here in good ol' Bedford Michigan. Thanks for a wintery afternoon of photo fun!

Engagement Session Tips

2011-01-21T22:50:00.006-05:00

We want you tofeel comfortable for your engagement session so that your photos reflect thereal you. My first piece of advice would be to wear something that you feel youlook HOT in. If you don't feel hot in it... then the photos will show it. So behot! Same goes with your significant other. You should help them pick somethingout but make sure they feel attractive in it as well!

Whatnot to wear:

- Heavy Patterns

- Stripes

- One single color outfits

- Tank Tops/Tube Tops

- Bermuda Shorts

***Shirt tip for women***

The shorter the sleeve the more of your armthat is exposed in the photograph. So if you aren't comfortable with the wayyour arms look in photographs I would recommend a 3/4 link shirt. I'll show youthe difference using the same outfit. The reason I suggest a 3/4 link shirtover a short sleeve shirt if you have this problem is because a short sleeveshirt often times cuts into the upper portion of the arm drawing more attentionto the problem area. If you have no idea what I'm talking about with the armissue then you are one of the lucky ones that don't have this problem. So JUMPfor joy and be lucky you can wear a short sleeve shirt! Lol

-Skirts {If you absolutely must that is ok! We just say this because we oftentimes ask you to sit on the ground/grass/floor in our poses.} So if you dodecide to wear a skirt sit down and make sure you can move without it being aproblem! :)

How to look HOT:

Selecta color that is appropriate for the season. I'm more prone to bright colors becausein photos the bright colors POP and you'll love them.

Ifyou go for a dark colored sweater/shirt, brighten it up with a chunky colorfulnecklace or scarf.

Well-fittedjeans always look awesome. If you opt for jeans, both people should wear jeans.

Ifyou are comfortable in heels I would definitely suggest them. Having heels orstilettos on when posing make you look slimmer. If you aren't comfy in heels gofor some cool looking flats! I definitely wouldn't recommend casual plain flipflops.

Layerslook awesome. Don't make them too bulky though.

Ifyour session is in the winter, I would suggest a cute coat with brightaccessories. Also make sure to wear some clothes underneath (sweater and whatnot) that you feel attractive in as well.

Ifone person wears shorts the other person should wear something complimentarysuch as capris or a sundress. I find that dressing up always looks better inphotos rather than the casual approach, if you would like both types of looks.Bring a change of clothes that are easy to change into.

***TIPFOR MEN***

Ifyour man tends to be on the hairy side have him stick to pants and remind himto wear an undershirt under whatever shirt he decides on.

Locations:

Don'tworry about locations. If you have a place that you guys like to go, fabulouslet me know and we can go there. Your engagement session is about yourpersonality so however we can get that into the photos we are totally up forit! If you can't think of anything, no problemo! We have many locationsthroughout Michigan and Ohio that will be perfect for you!

Things to note for session day:

Trynot to bring a lot of bags. If you have your purse I would lock it up in thetrunk of the car. That frees up the assistant/2nd photographer to be able toshoot more photos of you. If you need to bring a lipstick/gloss, feel free tobring that and a compact and we can keep it in our bags.

Pleaselet me know beforehand if there are any health conditions I should be madeaware of that might affect the way I pose. Things like if it's hard for you tosit on the ground or walk up/down stairs.

Most importantly relax because we are going to have someserious fun!

The Question I Get Asked The Most....

2011-01-02T19:59:00.000-05:00

Preface: someone I know just got a new dslr.

The first thing out of any new camera owner's mouth to me is, "Now I can take great pictures just like you." The next question is always, "How long did it take you to learn your camera?" They are always shocked to learn that I spent one straight year doing nothing but learning my camera. Then I spent the next year begging people I know to let me take pictures of them and their children. AND that I am still learning to this very day.

Then they are even MORE shocked when I tell them if they don't intend on learning and investing the time to REALLY know their camera and what all those funny symbols on the dial do they essentially have just purchased a $700 point and shoot.

So here is the answer to the question I get asked the most.

Read. Read everything you can get your hands on.

Then Practice. Practice. Practice. You should practice so much that your hand is permanently molded in the shape of your camera grip!

Don't be afraid to fail. You learn twice as much from your mistakes as you do from your successes.

The internet is such a great tool, utilize it. I read several photography blogs and forums everyday. Here are couple of my favorites.

digital photography school

chasing picture perfection

and

These sites only scratch the very surface of internet resources.

If you happen to be a hands on learner take some classes. You can always hire a professional for private lessons or take classes in a group at your local community college.

What I have found in the photography community is that other photographers are generally willing to help. Join a local group and hang with other photographers, you'll be surprised at how much you can learn and be inspired by others.

And lastly a camera doesn't make a photograph any more than a hammer makes a house. It's the person's creative talents using the tool!

Best of luck to all those new camera owners who Santa left a shiny new camera for, you must have been really good this year!

Tips for a Stress Free Wedding Day

2011-01-01T23:39:00.001-05:00

See each other before hand. I know I know…tradition. Just read this article, if you don't see each other before hand no big deal, just be informed.
Wear comfortable shoes at your rehearsal/day before. Normally the rehearsal dinner is the day before, don't wear shoes that are going to make your feet kill the next day (because that next day is your wedding day and you're going to be on your feet for the WHOLE day). If it was me, I'd much rather wear comfy shoes at the rehearsal & hot shoes that kill me on my wedding day. :) If you can do both - you rock - give us some advice on how to do that! ;)
Have two pairs of shoes for the wedding day. If you are like me you can't wear high heels at all. No problemo! How about you have two pairs of shoes. One so you can get some cool shoe shots and then take those bad boys off and wear something comfy. People, for the most part, only remember what they see in your photos, so if you had hot smokin' shoes in the photos, then hey that's what you had on the whole day. WOOOOT!
Eat something. I don't know how many times I have to say this but your wedding day is not a day to turn all anorexic on me. I mean seriously, you should have been doing that in the months prior not the day of! (note the sarcasm). I can't have any passed out brides, unless you rock a stretcher, avoid this.
Have an emergency kit. If you don't do anything of this list. DO THIS. You will thank me later. Here are some items I think are necessities. Just remember if something looks completely bizarre, and you're thinking why in the world would I need that?! Think about this, it's on there for a reason. So just trust us. :) If you click here they have a great list of things you can print off. Think that's too much work? I found an already made bridal kit on Amazon!
Find a person who knows how to pin the boutonniere on the groomsmen. This is an important job and I'm telling you no one knows how to do hardly. I mean, I don't even know how to do this. No one will know what those flowers looked like if there's no photos of it. :) Here's a great site to learn how to do this. Remember, people like to feel important and like they have an important job, so this is a great job for Aunt Sally! This is a great how to video to ensure your flowers don't look jank!
Designate one person with the rings. I know some of these tips sound like a no brainers but sometimes we forget the simplest of things. Now I don't know about you and I'm not trying to put groomsmen down, but I think I would trust a trusty bridesmaid over a groomsman who's had a case of beer before noon. I mean, I'm just sayin’. I've seen this happen.

Have 3 people know how to bustle your dress. Ok, 3 people may be pushing it. But most times the bride is only one who really knows how to bustle their dress. That might be good, but not really, unless you have some mad flexible skills. Have 2 other people go with you, so that they will remember. Ask your bridal store if they have a how to guide or tip card, they just might and then you won't have to worry about forgetting. I don't know how many times the reception has started late because they forgot how to bustle the dress. Even if your bustle is color coded, just trust me.
Get ready first. Seems easy enough but most bridesmaids spend so much time caring about how they look, they end up making you run late for everything. So make sure you get ready first, get your hair done first, your makeup done first, that way you will have that extra time to relax and not freak out. :)
Rehearsal Dinner: Give everyone info guide. Well, you may come off as anal but who the heck cares. I would rather be anal and have a perfect wedding then have it turned to all sorts of crazy. :) Give everyone who is an important part of your wedding day a guide with the following info.

Ceremony Venue/Address
Reception Venue/Address
Everyone in your immediate family & bridal party - cell phone #'s
Vendor Name & Contact # (cake, flowers, church coordinator, dj)
Schedule of Events

Tell them to put this in their caror something they know they will have the next day. Will all of them remember,no, but hey, one person remembering this might just save you big time ifsomething happens! :)

10-1-10

2010-12-19T21:18:00.000-05:00

Introducing Mr and Mrs Christopher Culter!

It was such a honor {and a heck of a good time} being a part of Chris and Nichole's wedding.

It's not often that I follow a big tractor and hay wagon filled with the bride, groom and wedding party to the formal portrait location. What a blast!

Congrats Culters!

Why are your prices so high?

2010-12-06T10:10:00.000-05:00

There are always those who use money as an excuse not to hire a professional photographer. I understand ALL about the bottom line, I'm raising 4 hungry and ever growing kids.

Overall experience aside, let's REALLY look at the bottom line. {although I would give anything NOT to take the aforementioned children and grumpy hubby to a chain studio to spend my allotted 15 minutes trying to create a family memory!}

I did some comparison shopping:

A single 8×10 print costs $18 at Picture People. My 8x10 luster coated mounted 8x10 print with my smallest collection is $26.

Canvas prices start at $149 at Sears. Mine start at $210. I am one step above in price over the yucky chain stores in the pricing food chain.

Check out the cost of a specialty 10×30 print that can’t be printed within 10 minutes in the back of the store, won’t you?

Perhaps you’d like a chain store 10×10 print with a nasty Photoshop action applied for only $79.99, every image I create is retouched with Photoshop for FREE!

Oh and that 16×20 wall print of the whole family is $99.99 at Sears. But remember it's not mounted or retouched and not everyone is looking. Mine $80. That's right LESS than Sears.

You’ll fnd Sadie’s pricing similar to the others…about $20 per 8×10 print.

Even JCPenney up sells the disc for $39.99 with minimum $199.99 purchase – no throwing it in with the session fee!

Need those photos to stick around for a while? That will be $9.99. (No free archiving, at those chain stores)

Did you want your portrait finished in black and white or to include a vignette? That costs extra. $1.99 per image. I assess EVERY image for what artistic process would look best. Is that vintage, high key, desat, boosted, drama, lovely, warmer, cooler, glazed, chocolate or popped? Every image is important to me to create a well rounded story of your photos!

Oh, you need RETOUCHING? That requires a quote. And will add a few days to your 1-hour portraits.

These chains are all based on volume to achieve profitability. Of course, even Wal-mart gave up on this volume mentality, closed 500 of its studios, and now sports PictureMe Portraits, which is run by CPI Corp, who also handles Sears’ studios. And Kiddie Kandids.

I don't wish to be a chain studio, I don't wish to complete your session in less than a hour {my typical time on a session start to finish is about 12 hours}, I don't wish not to know or care about my clients and I don't wish to take YOUR family memories granted. Bottom line is I am NOT more expensive than the big chains, and I provide so much more for your hard earned dollar. Did I just change your mind and your bottom line?

~Jamie

Vintage Fun

2010-11-28T13:37:00.000-05:00

If you are diabetic you are in trouble, because these photos are so sweet you may get knocked into a coma!

I had such a great time with the Brady Family. Mom Brady put such thought and effort into the style of the shoot I was blown away. I dig a chick that "gets" that it's all in the details! There's a new Brady on the way and I can't wait until I get my lens on Baby Brady in February. Might even persuade momma to do a maternity session! That's a hint Janel.

I love to shoot by the railroad tracks and I'm so lucky to have great tracks right here in my backyard in Temperance. You might have noticed these same tracks in my Dillon's 3 year old photos. Just another reason Bedford Michigan rocks. I don't have to look far for inspiration.

Nicolasora Family

2010-11-18T08:51:00.000-05:00

This family is a hoot. We had a beautiful day for shooting both inside and out. The kids really liked me. {well... eventually after like 2 hours!} I'm no quitter if it takes a whole day to win kids over I WILL stick it out until they finally give up and like me!

The funniest thing about this session was the phone call I got on the way home. A friend called and said the shoot looked like it went well and the kids were super cute. I asked her if she had been out at Sidecut Metro Park on this glorious afternoon and she said, "No, Dr. Nicolasora was posting updates and pictures from his phone to facebook of YOU working." Oh great. I'm sure those photos are keepers!

Thanks {N} family for all the fun!

Oh So Dilly

2010-11-12T09:51:00.000-05:00

Yes sometimes I even take pictures of my own children. It's much harder than working with other kids. They rarely listen to me and find no humor at all in my booty shakin'. Happy 3rd Birthday Dilly Boy!

One Year Later

2010-11-11T09:47:00.000-05:00

1 Year Ago.... my how things change!

Rinna Twins Senior Session

2010-10-31T15:09:00.000-04:00

What can I say about the Rinna boys?? 2 words...Sick Flow!

Flow {noun}

describes a person's long, wavy or curly hair.

Flow must be maintained at the perfect length.

Flow that is too long is called over-flow.

4 is fun times 3

2010-10-30T14:44:00.000-04:00

It's so great to see the Ketola Triplets each year.I love to see how they have changed and grown and oh how they have grown and changed this past year. They are so full of spunk and personality, it's always fun to spend an afternoon photographing them! Happy 4 kiddos!

Senior Photos and

2010-10-26T23:09:00.000-04:00

Re Senior Photos and

Family Photos and

Christmas Card Photos and

I Hate School Picture Photos and

I Got A New Boyfriend Photos

I think that should just about cover ALL the bases.

Thanks Young Family for a whole lot of FUN!

The Dodds

2010-10-25T22:58:00.000-04:00

Sometimes things go smooth and sometimes thing don't. With Meghan the sometimes things don't is a always things don't. My little Meghan HATES the camera and she REAAALY hates me with a camera. She has cried for her last 4 sessions with me. But we just deal with it and move on and I work and work and shake my booty {literally} until I get the shot. And when it's over and the tears are gone who really knows? Well, just you I guess! lol

Teagy Turns 1

2010-10-19T20:55:00.000-04:00

Cuz in the MI....

2010-10-19T20:46:00.000-04:00

they bleed blue & gold.

Dylan

2010-10-17T20:58:00.000-04:00

I love Dylans they are so funny and full of "it." You know "it", the "it" that makes you smile and wonder what the heck is going on inside that little head. This Dylan reminded me SO much of my Dillon it was uncanny!

and then there was Trevor

2010-10-17T19:06:00.000-04:00

The good big brother. The teller of jokes, the giver of hugs.

Barney Girls

2010-10-05T10:10:00.000-04:00

Ohhh, cute girl awesomeness makes my heart melt. Can you get much sassier than these girls?

Ollie

2010-10-04T10:10:00.000-04:00

Don't you just Love that name? I think it is so cute and so was the little boy that has that name. If I had another child {which I won't} I might just name him Oliver and hope for a cutie just like this Ollie!~

Sweet E

2010-10-03T09:44:00.000-04:00

Emma and her mommy and daddy came to see me when E was just a wee tiny little babe and then again when she was 3 months old. I never get tired of saying that one of the best things about my job is being able to witness families grown and change. Emma is a gorgeous girl with bright eyes and MANY expressions. Can't wait to see her again when she's 6 months!

The Cox Family

2010-09-24T19:16:00.000-04:00

Amanda is just like me. On the day of our session she brought me photos and said, "I'm sure what I do want, but these are what I DON'T want." And just like that I knew what she was talking about! We had such a fun and relaxed session, I wish all sessions could be that easy. A BIG thanks to Jimmy who came bearing only smiles even though he was running on 2 hours worth of sleep! Plus he does piggy tails.

Truly Madly Deeply

2010-09-19T21:20:00.000-04:00

A family full of Love!

Class of 2011

2010-09-18T19:02:00.000-04:00

I have great feeling about the Class of 2011! I've meet such a awesome bunch of kids this year. Bethany is no exception. She drove almost 2 hours to come see me because she wanted "something different." I'm so very glad she did.

Hannah

2010-08-30T14:02:00.000-04:00

First word...Fashionista.

She was more than ready to get her senior photographs done. She had plenty of ideas, plenty of wardrobe & plenty of personality!

Last word...Stunning!

Ashley

2010-08-29T09:33:00.001-04:00

Ashley was such a good sport and did everything I asked her to do. She over came bugs, "blind side" shouting people, honking passerbys, wardrobe changes in the back of a van and psychotic poop tossing pigeons. All in all I think it was worth it, Ash's pictures are Gorgeous!

Tanner

2010-08-27T10:47:00.000-04:00

Big T is now 9 months old and I totally dig this kid. He did make yearn for the days of babes with all his hugs and baby laughing. He is so sweet with the bluest eyes. Some how all my favorite images of this session were black and white. Oh how I love black and whites. See you for your 1st birthday big boy!

Rachell

2010-08-25T10:37:00.000-04:00

Senior session are in full swing now. I was lucky to get to work with Rachell this past week. She was easy going and fun and said, "just do whatever." So we shot all over. The viaduct, tracks, historic Mason House and the yacht club where Rachell rows. Good luck Rachell, have a great senior year.

Just for clarification this is NOT an oar, but rather a spoon.
I learn something new every session. Thx Rach!

Vintage Babes

2010-08-24T15:41:00.001-04:00

Sometimes I Actually Take Pictures

2010-08-22T15:11:00.000-04:00

of my own children, but never it seems when my oldest is around. Funny how a 15 year old boy can avoid getting photographed like the plague!

Those Murphy Kids

2010-08-21T14:57:00.000-04:00

Did you know I have an affinity for red heads? Well, hanging out with the Murphy Kids is like hitting the red head jackpot!

SJ

2010-08-19T14:34:00.000-04:00

I've said it a million times, but I'll say it again. Why do babies have to grow so FAST?! Seems like only a moment ago when everyone was waiting for Sadie Jane to arrive and now look as this precious girl!

Hot Dog Jones

2010-08-11T14:26:00.000-04:00

Hey!! Look there's a bear over there in his underwear!

A Dad will say just about anything to get a kid to look at me
& it usually works. Thanks Daddy Jones.

Now an Allie?

2010-08-07T14:21:00.000-04:00

This past month I photographed a Logan and now an Allie. I guess 13+ years ago I picked out some pretty popular names. This sweet Allie reminded me so much of my Allie. Tiny and sweet with dazzling blue eyes. D.O.L.L!!

Picture Perfect

2010-08-02T14:11:00.000-04:00

Sometimes you get the perfect storm. Perfect weather, perfect location and perfect baby. Ahhh, I dig my job!

What is it about a boy

2010-07-30T14:06:00.000-04:00

named Logan, that melts my heart?

Dustin

2010-07-25T10:03:00.001-04:00

Class of ~~2010~~ 2011. A little inside joke!

Sam

2010-07-20T11:03:00.000-04:00

Through my partnership with Kids Cancer Crusade I was matched up with SAM and his family for an afternoon of farm foto fun!

Sam is battling Progressive Brainstem Glioma.

But what is most important to know about him is that he loves turtles, the color green and his sister Gabby.

And that his family is completely in love with him.

And that I am a better person for having the chance to know him!

Also a BIG THANKS to Evelyn's grandparents for letting me use their beauty farm for the afternoon. I have the best friends and clients in the world!

Richie

2010-07-19T10:47:00.000-04:00

When you are 2

You have good days

Inquisitive days

Shy days

And days that just really suck.

And usually all these things happen on the same day!

That's what it means to be 2!

Mothers,Daughters, Friends and Hot Shoes

2010-07-18T10:28:00.000-04:00

I am very bless to have such great {super good looking} friends. All these photos were taken during a party at my house a couple of months ago in my front yard with one of my dining room chairs. I LOVE every single one of these photos. Just goes to show that it is the people that make the pic. Well people and really kick A$$ shoes!

Babe in a Bucket

2010-07-17T10:17:00.001-04:00

And her brother too!

My Whole Heart For My Whole Life

2010-07-16T22:10:00.000-04:00

Sarah and Greg were the cutest couple ever! My team, {Me, the other Jamie and Nicole} had a great time sharing in the big day. I can't believe the entire wedding was planned in just 2.5 weeks. I guess with love all things are possible. A BIG thanks to Greg who leaves behind his new bride to serve our country in Iraq. Next up...baby bump?

Sarah and Greg

2010-06-25T12:49:00.000-04:00

A completely ADORABLE couple!

I can't wait to share in their wedding day on Saturday.

Semaiah

2010-06-18T10:55:00.000-04:00

Semaiah is such a fun and funny little girl. I believe she was actually striking a pose in many of her photos!

Can you believe how fast babies grow?! This was Semaiah last time I saw her. Seems like only last week. I guess it wasn't because she's so big and almost 1 now.

I like CAKE, too!

2010-06-13T09:37:00.000-04:00

And so does...

Those Cute Sharbo Kids

2010-06-12T07:49:00.000-04:00

I had such a great time with the Sharbo kids. They are funny, clever and full of photo ideas. It was a nice change of pace to work with older kids, not one shed tear the whole time! I hope to do a family session with all the Sharbos soon!

Confirmation

2010-06-06T09:21:00.001-04:00

Boys can be a bit tricky to photograph sometimes, but not Brendan. He was a dream! It's harder with boys because mostly they would rather be doing anything {homework and chores included} other than having their picture taken. I do have to say that Brendan probably fell into this category as well, but after we chatted {and I helped negotiate a pretty sweet deal for a cash pay out from mom} he was all in! His confirmation photos turned out amazing!

Have you ever seen more dreamy brown eyes ever?

This bible was his father's childhood bible.
I LOVE to incorporate history into my pictures.

Thanks Brendan for a great session and congrats on your confirmation!

Better Than New Car Smell....

2010-05-25T10:18:00.000-04:00

New Baby Smell. This cutie was only 9 days old and she stayed awake for the entire 3 hours I was trying to get her to go to sleep. I guess she just really wanted to play with me. :>)

Tanner

2010-05-18T00:30:00.001-04:00

Oh I could eat this kid UP! He is just that yummy. He reminds me of an eighty year old retired man living in Boca Raton. Put some black socks and a pair of sandals on him and I swear he could pass for my granddad!

I love the way motherhood looks on my beautiful friend.

Seriously, the gut.
I love love love it!

Look how much he's grown and changed in the last 5 months.

Man, do kids grown up fast or what?!
Next thing I know I be shooting his senior pictures.
Sorry, Janelle, just kidding. Don't have a heart attack, he'll be a baby for ever!

The Perfect Mother's Day Gift

2010-05-06T00:13:00.000-04:00

What could be a better surprise Mother's Day gift than a photograph? I have to admit that I was a little bit teary at the end of this session knowing how much joy a photo of her two favorite guys would bring this hard working mom. I also have to admit that I was a little bit impressed that the guys would take it upon them selves to book the session, get cleaned up, dressed up, shaved and hair trimmed up and meet up with me all on their own. All on the sly. Mom didn't know a single thing about it.

Oh, did I mention that we also had to wait out rain, terrible thunder and lighting, hail and some weird guy on a bike? Well, we did but it was SO worth it.

Rylan

2010-05-01T18:49:00.000-04:00

After plodding along with this photography business for the last year, I am starting to see more and more repeat clients. Rylan was one of my very first "pro" sessions and boy has she changed.

What hasn't changes is how cute she looks in a tutu!

Speedy Feet and Sissy

2010-04-30T18:36:00.000-04:00

I am a sucker for red hair. We had hoped that our last baby would be a red headed girl. We ended up with a blondish boy. I guess you get what you get. So I enjoyed Gavin and his awesome red hair more than I can tell ya! His Sis is pretty adorable too!

Angry Man

2010-04-30T13:53:00.000-04:00

Family sessions are just plain fun. I love to have several generations all together and capture the family dynamics.

The Daniels family is full of dynamics!

Family.

The oldest and the youngest.

The Mom and Dad

The grown kids.

The new families.

And that brings us to "Angry Man"
I did not find him to be angry at all, but who am I?
With Angry Man came the brilliant idea to do an angry shot.
Everyone angry expect Angry Man.

So we tried.....

And tried.....

And tried...until

we sorta got it right!

But it was F.U.N. for sure.
Thanks Daniels Family!