J Conner Photography

2009-09-19T06:14:00.000-07:00

Dollars spent on advertising this year: 0

Updates to the website this year: 0

Updates to the blog: too embarrassed to count

A year that far exceeded all my goals and expectations, 100% due to word-of-mouth and client referrals: PRICELESS!

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Thank you, thank you, thank you! Because of our wonderful clients, this year has been huge. We've become known for our wedding photography and it's all due to our wonderful clients - THANK YOU! It has brought us to the point of go big or go home. And after much thought and prayer, we have decided to go, or in our case, STAY home.

So, what does that mean? It means that we are not accepting any more 2010 weddings. If you're a bride and would like a photography referral, shoot me an email and I'll hook you up with some of KC's best known (and sometimes unknown-but-will-be-big) awesome photographers.

Thank you to all of our clients. We'll still be around, and hey, I might even update the blog and website once in a while.

2009-02-05T09:15:00.001-08:00

Wow - I didn't realize it had been since October since I last updated the blog! Unbelievable!

Well, it hasn't been because I've been sitting around twiddling my thumbs. :) After an overly busy holiday season, and not much of a break in January, I'm happy to hit the photography slow-season. I have lots of behind the scenes work to catch up on.

For today, I want to share with you some very special people. Shan and I went to high school with the groom, and we can't imagine a better bride for him. She's absolutely beautiful on the outside, and even more gorgeous on the inside. She has a heart of gold. And yeah, the groom is pretty cool, too. (Just teasing you, T!) These are some of my faves from their special day.

The day started out nicely, but by the time the wedding got started, the ice storm had moved in. I love this shot of the ice forming on the trees. It's like the whole world started glistening and sparkling for them.

My husband, the rock star, pulling out his rock star poses for the guys. Unfortunately, due to the weather, we weren't able to get the girls outside.

Running for the limo... it was a total snowstorm at this point!

You know I'm going to have to throw in a shoe shot!

The beautiful bride in classic black and white

Okay, I debated to show this one or not, but showing it won out. I knew the moment I took this image that I would want to age the photo with a texture. It's probably my favorite image of the entire day, but I almost didn't show it because it needs some extensive photoshop work first. I won't point it out to you, but two points for whoever sees what I need to remove before it's printed. :)

LOVE it...

Details of the cake - I love cake, I love taking pictures of cake, I love eating cake

I love watching the bride's face as she walks down the aisle to meet her husband.

The reception site and the very last shot of the day - took it from my car window... hehe! It was slippery out, and I knew that I'd end up on my bottom if I tried to walk down the hill to get this shot.

2008-10-15T11:38:00.000-07:00

Check out this little cutie-pie! He's 7 months and on the go! He's a fast crawler and is already starting to stand. Isn't he a heartbreaker?

Photographically speaking, this was a challenging shoot. First, it rained. And then poured. We stuck it out under the gazebos, but then it began to get cold. And then colder. And then dark clouds rolled in and it rained more. But Little S was such a trooper. He hammed it up for the camera and made for a great session in the end!

Enjoy your sneak peek, Mom and Dad. You'll be hearing from me on Friday!

2008-09-23T10:27:00.000-07:00

I barely finish up one couple before the next couple is queued up and ready to go! We're actually going to skip over my October bride - more on her wedding next - and go to the engagement shots of our November bride and groom. I have to tell you, I wasn't so sure about her. Since we drove out to Manhattan, I wasn't quite sure where to photograph. She suggested an apartment complex. Ummm, not my usual location, for sure. But wow! When we got there, I was blown away. This was nothing like the rinky-dink apartments I lived in while in college! Fabulous light, gorgeous setting, beautiful landscaping. This bride has an eye for the beautiful! I can't wait for her wedding!

Meet K & C! I hope you enjoy your sneak peek. Shan & I had a blast - we can't wait for your wedding!

Rockin' the sunflare!

Yep - we hopped a plane for a gorgeous beach and island light.

Moving in for a smooch

Shan got this shot of them playing while I messed around with the other camera. This is one of the Top 5 for me!

I love cool architecture.

2008-09-12T13:28:00.001-07:00

I sat down to blog a bit about our most recent wedding. I've been sitting here staring at the screen for quite some time. Everything I typed seemed silly and failed to describe the beautiful, thoughtful day that A & R put together for their family and friends to celebrate their marriage.

A couple of high points:
- A's best man was his Dad. One of the photos below is Dad getting ready. The set of Dad's jaw sets off the emotion of that photo.
- R and her bridesmaids. I'm pretty sure they're all beauty queens and the best of friends. I wanted to go hang out with them rather than do my job... LOL!
- The ceremony was lit with hundreds of candles. They were all across the stage, behind the bride and groom, and down every aisle. It was soooo beautiful!
- And on a purely selfish note, I got to show a slideshow during the reception. On the big screen. Of the ceremony. It rocked! I was an editing fool, pulling together images moments after they were captured, to process into a slideshow. It was a complete blast! Huge thanks to my wonderful husband, Shan, and to my 3rd shooter, Ron Grant (www.rongrantphotography.com). Yeah, so he also happens to be my Dad. :)

Sharing a moment right after the kiss.

The cutest little ringbearer!

Getting ready to walk down the aisle with Dad.

I want these flowers in my home.

Best man and Father.

The gorgeous bride and her attendants.

Enjoy your sneak peek, A & R. I'll most likely have the images in your hands sometime next week.

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OFFICE MATTERS

I'm in the process of rearranging my work schedule. I'll be answering emails, taking phone calls, and scheduling ordering sessions on just a few days per week (most likely it'll be Monday, Wednesday, Friday). If you don't hear from me right away, give me 48 hours. I promise to be in touch. Brides, if it's an emergency, you have my home number. Feel free to use it, just ignore the four children playing in the background.

Also, I'll be out of town this weekend meeting with and photographing our newest bride. It's a destination wedding! MANHATTAN

Okay, not NYC, but Manhattan, KS. :)

2008-08-30T18:55:00.001-07:00

Welcome to Babyland!

I have some precious curly little people to share with you. First, I'm so excited to introduce little E. Her Mom and I are good friends, and I couldn't wait to get my camera on her beautiful little squishy face.

I love it when they are still curly.

And I had to make a collage of her room. Her Mom has mad home decor skills.

Next are not one, but TWO beautiful babies. My very first set of twins! I was quite pleased with the final result. I admit I was pretty nervous - I know what to do with one baby, but posing two, focusing on two, highlighting two of everything was a fun challenge.

My favorite snuggly face images

I love these types of images

All my newborn sessions are on location only. The last thing you want to do is take your newborn out to a studion that has had who-knows-how-many-kids coming through it. I bring my camera, some props, and my magic pop-up backdrop. And I clean everything after every session. Once you have a newborn session with me, you'll understand why. Diaperless babies and all. :) I recommend that you call your photographer (me, of course) as soon as you get home from the hospital. Newborns grow very quickly and it is best to get those first images within 14 days of birth.

NEXT: More weddings. Oh my gosh, I love weddings!

2008-08-05T09:43:00.000-07:00

I promise I'm still here, even though I'm not updating as much as I'd like. I have a lots to share today.

First up - a sneak peek! I'm so excited to photograph this couple's wedding. They are the kindest, stylish, funnest couple! Enjoy your sneak peek R & A. Just a few weeks to go!

Next - another engaged couple! Shan and I become friends with all our couples, but the cool part is that we are already friends with K & Q. K has babysat for us on many occasions. (Warning: nerdy photographer-speak - check out that backlighting! The texture practically jumps off the page!)

Check out this little guy! He is adorable, and I'm not just saying that because he's my client. This session was a blast. We ended up with so many fantastic shots, we had to put together an album for his Dad. From cover to cover, this book was a celebration of the energy and youth of little E. We also had his gorgeous Mom jump in for some precious images of the two of them together.

Last for today, a super-fun family that traveled from Southeast Kansas to have me photograph them. I'm truly honored. Let me tell you a little bit about the L Family. They are all super-fun, super-cute, and super-smart (I like the word super today). I tried to get some parenting tips from Mom and Dad, because they have obviously done a great job with their three children!

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Please allow me to get all fuzzy and gooey for a moment about photography. Each of the images above is why I love photography. I'm excited about my clients viewing their images when I first create them, but I get done-right all teary when I think about my couples pouring over their wedding photos 25 years from now; little E's parents thumbing through the pages of his album when he graduates from college; and the L's family having a keepsake of their family as their children leave the nest. If you haven't taken the time for professional protraiture, this fall will be the perfect time for you to capture those memories. I know we're all busy, but I promise, you won't regret it.

NEXT UP: Babies! Little, itty-bitty, squishy newborn babies! I'm headed off to a newborn shoot tonight, and then twins this weekend. After that, it will be weddings and families. My fall is booking up quickly. For my own sanity, I will only take on one more wedding this fall. I do have some slots available for families/children sessions. Oh, and I'm throwing a maternity session into the mix as well.

And yes, there are some VERY BIG CHANGES coming up for J Conner Photography. It's all good! I can't wait to share with everyone.

2008-06-09T10:30:00.000-07:00

We had the pleasure of photographing a drop-dead gorgeous couple recently. Their wedding was classic and pure and joyful. Thank you to D and C for sharing your day with us. It was our honor to capture your beautiful day!

D and C created the day with their guests in mind. They arranged for the trolley to tranport everyone to the wedding venue - Loose Park.

You know what I love about this photo? It captures the fun of this wedding. You know it's a great wedding when the bride, groom and officiant are all smiling!

They are a timeless couple.

D has a fun, classic style. I love this shot. Not only does it show off her shoes, but it tells the story of her poor feet and the fact that we went all over Loose Park to make sure the day was well-documented.

You can't have a wedding at Loose Park without getting the bridge shot.

I'm a sucker for selective focus images. Isn't her bouquet fantastic? I have some close-ups of it, and they make me drool.

The cupcake cake. How fun!

Thanks again! I should have all the images edited by the end of the week. I can't wait to share your slideshow with you!

NEXT UP: Family shots - some have to wait until after Father's Day so I don't ruin any surprises!

2008-05-22T08:43:00.001-07:00

Just a quick note to say thank you to all my clients! The Spring/Summer sessions are in full swing! I'm looking forward to starting my string of weddings this weekend, so be prepared for lots of fantastic wedding images popping up here at the blog. Also, look for family images - I have quite a few booked - it thrills me to capture the love of a family.

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And now for your entertainment and amusement...

meet "Vulcan Toes" Conner. This beautiful image was created by Sandy Puc' of Expressions Photography at her Bellies-n-Babies Seminar. I learned so much at her seminar and am looking forward to utilizing my new skills, including the secret move to give your baby that perfect Vulcan Toe look - it's all the rage! If you have a newborn, please contact me!

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.