J Conner Photography

2008-05-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a night! Yesterday afternoon I headed north to the Hilton to help Sandy 'Sam' Puc and her team set up for the Bellies-n-Babies Seminar. It was a ton of work, and I have an all new appreciation for 'tour roadies'. Working with another photographer, the two of us registered over 450 photographers for the event! The most exciting part of the night was watching Sam work, and as I've mentioned before, Kavanaugh and I got the best seat in the house - on the stage as models! Unfortunately, I couldn't see the projected images as Sam was shooting them, but I know they are going to be awesome because everytime she snapped an image, the crowd let out a collective 'ahhhh'. With Sam's permission, when I receive the images, I'll post a few here.

The other great part of the evening was meeting up with other professional photographers. I got a chance to meet one of my heroes, Jason Domingues. His work is incredible! It inspires me, challenges me, and pushes me to get even better to provide my clients with the best!

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So, in addition to playing Tour Roadie for Sandy Puc, I've also been putting on my commercial photographer hat, with the help of my Dad. We went on-location, set up a full studio, complete with at least five strobe lights. Those of you who have worked with me know that I prefer to just use natural light, with my reflector, and occasionally throwing in a little flash - this was a lot of fun for me, but I don't think I'll be adding a gazillion lights to my studio anytime soon! Here are a few images I'll be submitting to the authors/editors:

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Last, but not least, I alluded to some changes here at J Conner Photography. Behind the scenes, changes are taking place. I'm excited to share them with you, and I will as soon as everything is in place. Be prepared for beautiful new products, outstanding new images, and the stars!

2008-03-25T13:09:00.000-07:00

Hey, what do you know? A PHOTOGRAPH on a PHOTOGRAPHY blog... LOL! Here's my little guy!

I want to thank everyone for being so patient with me during the last half of the pregnancy - it certainly knocked me for a loop. I'm so relieved to be able to say that ALL PHOTO ORDERS are in the mail! If you do not receive your order by the end of the week, please give me a call or drop me an email (I have tracking numbers).

I'm taking a little bit more time to recover and enjoy my new bundle of joy. If you're interested in a session, please be aware that I'm booking into the last part of May.

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UPDATE

GREAT news! I just received an email that the Bellies & Babies Seminar with Sandy Puc' has reached the sold out level, BUT Sandy is securing larger accomodations. There are now 79 spots open. I don't think I need to tell you that if you are even entertaining the thought of attending - sign up NOW! Sandy is an amazing speaker. Not only will you learn her techniques, but you'll be inspired by this incredible woman. She is the most giving person I know. While other business owners are brainstorming ways to make money, Sandy spends her time brainstorming ways to give. Sign up at www.bellies-babies.com.

2008-03-19T06:49:00.000-07:00

Thank you for all the well wishes! The newest member of the Conner clan joined us on Friday, weighing in at 9 lbs, 2 oz. I'm sure you understand that I haven't had time to pick up the camera because I've been busy holding and loving on the beautiful boy.

2008-02-14T02:03:00.000-08:00

Stick a fork in me, I'm done! I'm beginning my official maternity leave since my youngest son told me that I look like an elephant. (Sorry, no pictures of the elephant!) All orders have been completed and I'm just waiting on them to be delivered from the lab. I'll be mailing orders via USPS with tracking info (recently learned my lesson on that one).

I know that a few of you are still browsing your galleries to submit your orders. I will process those orders and get them out to you as soon as possible. Please allow a bit extra time, especially if I'm in labor. :)

If you're wanting to schedule a session, the soonest available times I have are in June. (May seems to be the month for weddings this year!) Please, go ahead and contact me at jconner@jconnerphotography.com BEFORE March 1st and we'll get you on the schedule.

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Bellies & Babies Seminar with Sandy (Sam) Puc

This amazing seminar will be held on April 30 in Kansas City. If you have an interest in photographing maternity or children, this is for you! At last check, we were almost halfway sold out and we have not yet even started advertising in Kansas City. Please go to www.bellies-babies.com to learn more and register now! A special little guy will be making his debut and modeling for Sam. I'm not sure if I'm more excited about the seminar or having photos of my newest little guy by THE Sam Puc!

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One last announcement - I'm probably jumping the gun a bit, but I'm excited about the direction of J Conner Photography. My wonderful, extremely talented husband, Shan (whom many of you have met), will be taking a more active role in the business. He is ultra-organized (helping to keep my artsy, oh-look-there's-a-squirrel brain on track) and has a fantastic way of seeing shots. Most importantly, he has terrific ideas and knows how to implement them to bring you the best service and products. I know that custom portraiture is special and to be cherished. I want to make sure that your experience with us is special and that you feel cherished. I want you to have the BEST products from the BEST vendors and photographs from my BEST! I've already been able to unveil a few really special things, including a killer album, to a few clients. When I get back from maternity leave, you can bet I'm going to be showing off all the cool new stuff!

2008-01-10T11:38:00.000-08:00

What a start to the New Year! I had such a blast photographing my latest senior! Meet Troy - he's headed off to college in Chicago and was up for an urban session to reflect his cool personality. We met up at Union Station and photographed all over the place! He was an awesome sport and up for anything - it made for such a fun session! Thanks Troy!

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Coming Up: More Celebrating Adoption photos and Sandy "Sam" Puc registration information!

2008-01-02T08:54:00.000-08:00

I'm back!

I hope everyone had a blessed holiday season. I took a much-needed break after a VERY BUSY first-half December and it feels good to head into the New Year with a fresh mind and spirit. The break has re-charged me and I'm looking forward to the sessions that are already on the books!

A couple of things to note:

- Prices will be changing ever so slightly in July. Don't worry - they won't be huge jumps - just little adjustments due to lab costs.

- I will be taking my maternity leave during the end parts of February, all of March, and most of April.

- Photographers and those of you interested in Photography: I will be assisting the world-famous Sandy "Sam" Puc at her Kansas City "Babies n' Bellies" seminar on April 30th. This will be a can't-miss event! I'll be posting more information soon, but in the meantime, here's the seminar site: Bellies n' Babies We are expecting a sold-out crowd of 200, so start planning now on attending!

- Last, but not least, I want to thank every single one of my clients from 2007! I can't begin to express my gratitude to you. You've taught me so much over this first full year in business. I plan on providing you even more in 2008 - more creative and fun photography, more opportunities to take advantage of specials in the photography wold, and more moments to capture on film! THANK YOU!

Now, to begin 2008, I will tackle that long list of emails in my inbox. :) I look forward to hearing and seeing each of you, along with new faces, this year!

2007-11-15T07:47:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh, it's so refreshing to photograph High School Seniors - they don't run from the camera. That's a big plus when it comes to photography... hehe!

Okay, I don't want to embarrass anyone, but this Senior is smart as a whip, talented, has a great sense of humor, and is cute, to boot! Thanks C. and Mom - we had a great time at your session! Enjoy your sneak peek, C! I'll be in touch by Saturday - it's taking me a little longer than usual to edit the images because there are so many fabulous ones!

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If you still need to order your Holiday cards, please contact me this week! Time is running out!

2007-11-12T08:26:00.000-08:00

Peace on Earth!

I'm trying to stay focused on Thanksgiving before I even start thinking about Christmas, but it's so hard when you get a shot like this:

A sleeping baby, gently sucking away on her fingers... oh, if I wasn't already pregnant, I would have baby fever! Doesn't it just make your heart ache?

Here's the little lady in her wide-eyed glory! She reminds me of a little pixie - so petite. (Michelle - this one is for you!)

And I stuck to fairly traditional posing, but I couldn't help but sneak this in:

I love the casualness and ease of this shot. It's decidely UNtraditional, but all fun! And what better way to show off just how tiny the little lady is? Sometimes when we photograph babies by themselves, we miss the scale of just how tiny they are. Her little toes-ies next to Mom and Dad's are so precious.

2007-11-06T09:14:00.001-08:00

I said last week that I have the BEST CLIENTS IN THE WORLD! Well, apparently, I also have the CUTEST CLIENTS IN THE WORLD, too!

This little girl is an angel - a really FAST angel! She had no intentions of posing for the camera. She had places to be and things to see! I have a feeling that Mom might have been a bit concerned that I may not have gotten one of those adorable close-ups, so just to easy your mind, Mom, here is one for you:

The rest of the family is just as cute! And in honor of my November BLOG ONLY SPECIAL here is a sneak peek at the family in a Gallery Wrapped Canvas.

Thanks M. Family!

2007-10-30T13:27:00.000-07:00

BLOG ONLY SPECIAL!!!

Isn't that image gorgeous? It's another sneak peek from my session Saturday. When I saw it, I knew it would be perfect for announcing my Blog Only Special! Notice how the image has a 3D quality to it? This is a mock-up of a Gallery Wrapped Canvas. Gallery Wrapped Canvas prints are printed directly onto canvas, stretched over a wood frame, and are ready to hang - no frame needed. They are jaw-droppingly gorgeous! Your family and friends will be drooling over it!

During the entire month of November, when you order a Gallery Wrapped Canvas, you'll automatically receive 10% off. If you order two canvas prints, you'll get 15% off, and three canvas prints earns you 20% off. Additionally, if you decide to order more than one canvas print of the same image, you'll get the second print for half price!

This offer is good only for orders received during the month of November. The prints will be ready in time for Christmas. You do not have to have a session in November - if you've had a session with me anytime in 2007 and are interested in ordering, please contact me at jconner@jconnerphotography.com and I will reload your online gallery for ordering.

2007-10-27T20:12:00.000-07:00

I have a confession.

Before every session I have butterflies in my stomach. I review my posing ideas, double-check my equipment, and try to remember everything I've learned.

And then I meet my newest clients. Hugs, handshakes, beautiful brides, fun-loving teens, and adorable children calm my nerves. I swear I have the BEST CLIENTS IN THE WORLD! Thank you to every single one of you!

Today's session was no different! I walk away shaking my head in awe and thanking God for giving me a heart for photography. To S. and T., thank you from the bottom of my heart. It was an honor for me to photograph your beautiful babies today!

Ooooh, I just want to pinch her cheeks and eat her up!

This doll was quite serious, but then she let it all out and I caught it with my camera!

2007-10-25T10:12:00.000-07:00

Enjoy some of my faves!

2007-10-08T09:32:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm supposed to be showing you some engagement photos, but the shoot didn't happen. Instead, I have WEDDING images!!! I'll be back to show more. I've literally just downloaded the memory cards and pulled up a few images that I thought would be stunning.

Picture-perfect bride!

The happy couple!

Funny story with this shot - the bride's friends (whom I'm sure are all natural photographers) were having fun posing her. I stayed off to the side and caught this gem. I l-o-v-e this image - it's one of my new favorites!

**Little side note - this is how I like to photograph weddings. I like to stay to the side and capture the action as it happens instead of directing the wedding.

The dance - the black and white along with a bit of grain captured the romance!

I'll be editing my little heart out this week. I have to come back and show you the elegant, yet simple wedding, the beautiful location, and so much more!

2007-09-25T09:51:00.000-07:00

Oooh, I've been playing and havin' some fun! This family was completely adorable!

We had fun jumping on beds...

then relaxing on the floor in total exhaustion...

and capturing little sis taking steps!

Thanks for inviting me, L. Family! I had so much fun!

COMING UP SOON: Engagement photos!

2007-09-10T14:21:00.001-07:00

Wow! To say that I've been busy would be an understatement. Before I put up some recent images, I need to announce that I'm now booking into DECEMBER! Yes folks, you heard correctly! All of my scheduled sessions are booked until December. If you were really hoping to get a family photo made in time for Christmas, contact me at jconner@jconnerphotography.com and I'll see what I can do as far as opening up more shooting time. However, there is a $250 minimum order requirement on any last minute sessions.

In other news, the word is out about Celebrating Adoption. Apparently it hit the online message boards and has taken off. Congratulations to all the new parents! If you have adopted a child within the past 12 months (regardless of the child's age), you're eligible for a complimentary session and a Session Album (a $225 value!). Contact me at jconner@jconnerphotography. Due to the nature of these sessions, I'm quite limited on the number of sessions I can take per month, so call early! I know all you Mom and Dads have been waiting forever, so call before you even pick up your newest bundle of joy!

One more announcement and then we'll get to see the cuties. J Conner Photography will be closed for the months of March, April, and possibly early May 2008 due to the arrival of a stork. :) If you're a senior wanting those last minute senior images, please contact me NOW! The precious time I will devote to shooting is going to go quickly.

Okay, now for the cuties! I'm posting my two most recent sessions, both of which happened to be children! Enjoy your sneak peek (or in the case of one Mom, a little nod to your cutie-pie since you've already seen the proofs)!

2007-06-14T13:23:00.000-07:00

It's the HOT NEW trend in Weddings and J Conner has it!

Oh my goodness! I can't hold it in any longer. Here's a sneak preview of my NEW engagement book! This book, either hard-cover or soft-cover full-bled book can be used in place of a guestbook at the wedding OR use it during the reception. It's the perfect way to A) show off your awesome engagement photos and B) let your family and friends leave you a personal message.

You'll want to take this book with you on your honeymoon just so you can read all the anecdotes and tips your family left for you. When you get home, it's the pefect coffee table book for your new home and life as Mr. and Mrs.

You will cherish this book!

Every page is unique and customizable. You can pick your favorite questions/sayings or choose from my list. You also pick out your most-loved photos from the session to include in the book. I'm currently working with my wonderful professional lab to develop the pricing. I'm estimating the price beginning at $250 (costs vary depending on type of paper, total number of pages, and cover options), but unlike the wedding and session albums, there will be NO minimum order! Woo-hoo!

Sample pages (all pages shown below are TWO-page spreads):

Sarah and Mark, believe it or not I still have MORE photos to edit. I keep finding more I want to include! :) I'll be in touch with you before Monday.

2007-06-11T18:23:00.000-07:00

Sarah & Mark

Woo-hoo! I got to take these two down to the Plaza and have fun with them! I had previously photographed them in a mini-session, but when they called and told me they were engaged, I just knew that I had to do a full session with them. They were so awesome. They karate-kicked, they jumped, they put up with my nit-picking to get just. the. right. shot. :)

Unfortunately, I'm already booked for a wedding on their wedding date. :( But that's okay - I can't possibly photograph every wedding no matter how much I want to. And believe me, I really want to! I just have so much fun! Anyhow, this blog entry is about them and not my desire to shoot all the weddings I possibly can. So, without further ado - check out this hip shot of Sarah and Mark standing in front of the stone work at The Melting Pot!

Congratulations Sarah and Mark!!!

Which reminds me... you know those boring guestbooks at weddings - well, you should see what I'm cookin' up. It's going to blow those guestbooks out of the water! What I have in mind is not going to be put into a box and filed away with other wedding momentos, oh no! This is going to be picked up, thumbed through, read and re-read over and over again. You're going to laugh. You're going to cry. And it will be the talk of your wedding. Stay tuned. I've got to iron out the details and then I'll provide some sneak peeks.

2007-05-30T09:46:00.000-07:00

More wedding!!!

I hope everyone had a great Memorial Day! After taking a few days off, I'm back to editing wedding images. I thought I had my favorites all picked out, then when I came back to it, I have all new favorites.

Check out this beautiful cake! It was topped with gorgeous real flowers. As pretty as it looked, it tasted even better.

Mark, the groom, handmade 1000 cranes for his bride. Isn't that awesome? There were cranes everywhere, including this large pit overflowing with cranes.

Here's one of my new favorites. Yes, the veil over the heads pose has been done before, but there's a reason it's a classic - you get beautiful images like this!

Doesn't Amanda just look radiant? This was during the ceremony, right after Mark read the vows he wrote to her. I LOVE it when I can capture a moment in time!

Congratulations again Amanda and Mark!

2007-05-22T13:24:00.001-07:00

WARM FUZZY FEELING

You know that warm fuzzy feeling you get when you meet someone for the first time and you immediately click? I got to experience that feeling this past weekend with a wonderful, fun-loving family. By the time I left their family reunion / graduation party, I felt part of the family.

We have some nice posed shots, but I love this one! High Fives All Around!

This is K. The party was in her honor. She's off to GERMANY! How cool is that? I'm pretty sure I talked her into coming back to see me for a Let's Get Trashed session in July. Ooooohhh, we're going to have so much fun! K is spunky and fun and sweet, all mixed together.

I'm fairly certain that this little guy is the one who rules the family. Isn't he so cute?! Since he was the only one at the party under the age of 16, he got lots of lovin', holdin', and kissin' from all his aunts, uncles, and cousins!

Thanks T family! I hope you enjoyed your sneak peek!

2007-05-15T14:59:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS AMANDA AND MARK!!!!

Ahhhh, my second wedding is under my belt now. It was WONDERFUL! The bride looked like a princess and the groom was a stunning knight in a tux! I'm currently up to my eyeballs in images to proof, but I couldn't resist giving a little sneak peek. Don't worry - I'll be posting more of my favorites.

The first dance (photo by my incredibly talented second-shooter, Shan) (All my wedding packages come with TWO photographers - me and my DH!)

I haven't been through all the images yet, but this is most likely my favorite! There's just something about it. Something so passionate, but yet pure and simple. I love the way she's holding her dress as she exits the chapel.

In a future sneak peek, I'll have to show off the cranes! Stay tuned.

2007-05-09T11:46:00.000-07:00

Let's Get Trashed!!!

I'm so excited and honored to be the first contributor to Mark Eric's Let's Get Trashed Blog. Mark Eric is the creative genius behind the Trash the Dress Blog. Trashing the dress (or day-after photography) is THE hot, new trend in wedding photography. Check out the Trash the Dress blog to see some of the amazing, romantic images!

But WAIT, this blog entry is for Let's Get Trashed! Let's Get Trashed is for the high school senior and his/her prom dress/tux and cap & gown. How do you want to remember this time in your life - posed in front of the generic corny backdrop that every-prom-photographer-in-the-world uses OR how about you enjoying life, having a blast with your best friends in your best attire? After you've danced the night away at prom, after you've walked across the stage to receive your diploma, it's time to celebrate! Go ahead, jump in the pool with your tux on, drift on the lake with your beautiful gown floating around you, run through the fountains downtown, just make sure I'm there to snap away with my camera!

PS - Moms are not allowed to cringe at the thought of getting these dresses dirty. How many times did YOU wear your prom dress? Uh-huh. Exactly! Why not have fun?You're also allowed to remind me of this when my daughter hits 18. :)

PPS - Laura, my awesome senior, thank you so much for being up for anything. If it wasn't for you, I wouldn't be part of this awesome group of photographers!

OKAY - SO WHO'S UP FOR IT???!!!! I have access to a pool in a few weeks. I could sure use a bunch of gals and guys to jump in. Contact me at jconner@jconnerphotography.com.

2007-05-02T10:30:00.000-07:00

Check out these two gorgeous sisters! The beautiful long flowing blonde hair, the piercing blue eyes, the long legs (sorry, no pics of the legs). Yep - just put my little five-foot, brown-hair, brown-eyed self out of my misery... hehe! They were a dream to photograph!

Technically speaking, they aren't really MY clients. I accompanied my super-talented husband to his portfolio-building shoot. He asked me to shoot some frames as back-up, as this is just one of several great shots I got from the two of them. And ooohhh, does it make me want to take them around town and do a total rock-star session!

Thanks S and J! We had a great time!

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In other news, now that the nicer weather is upon us, my calendar is starting to fill up for those awesome on-location sessions! Send me an email now (jconner@jconnerphotography.com) to book your session.

Also, 2008 Seniors - contact me ASAP! I have some new ideas and I'm looking for a few adventurous souls to help me out!

2007-04-23T13:46:00.000-07:00

J Conner Photography was honored to participate in the American Liver Foundation's 5th Annual Fashion Show and Silent Auction held at The Legend's in Kansas City, Kansas on April 12th. One lucky person bid and won a complimentary session and a print credit! Congratulations to my mystery client! I look forward to hearing from you.

2007-04-10T14:34:00.000-07:00

Anton and Tina have seen their photos, so I wanted to share a few of my favorites from their wedding. Enjoy!

2007-04-04T18:26:00.000-07:00

My life has changed! Over the past five days, I've been attending the Heart of America convention. Not only did I become a member of the Kansas Professional Photographers Association, but I've had the chance to meet and soak up information from the BEST photographers in the country!

On Saturday, I met one of my personal heroes, Sandy Puc'. If you're not familiar with her, you must check out her work! She started the organization Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep. I first became familiar with this awesome group of photographers after Allie Scott passed away due to AML leukemia. Sandy's story about infant bereavement was so touching and sacred, that there wasn't a dry eye in the convention. Sandy is also the photographer for the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Seeing her alone was worth the price of admission!

On Tuesday, I met THE senior photographer in the country Gary and Pam Box. Their information on posing, lighting and post-processing work was incredible. I have a whole new arsenal up my sleeve to give you the best portrait ever!

Today, I finished up with the rockstars of the photography world Jeffrey and Julia Woods. Okay, this is a bit embarrassing, but for those of you that know me, it's totally something I would do - I bawled and blubbered introducing myself to Julia! I know, I know, I know - go ahead, make fun of me - I deserve it. I was just so grateful and overwhelmed (and we had just watched a touching video) that my emotions spilled out all over the place. Jeffrey and Julia have released something inside of me and it's going to have a HUGE impact on my entire life - not just my photography. I don't want to go into everything right now, but I can say that you'll need to stay tuned because some VERY BIG changes are coming. I'm headed down a path that fits my style, and this blog is just a little glimpse.