February 22nd, 2010

Hello Class of 2011!!!

Hey you . . . yeah the one with the pending senioritis disease!  This is a shout out to the Juniors – Class of 2011!

So, I know you’ve already thought long and hard about how YOUR senior portraits are going to look.  You’re thinking about your clothes, how your hair is gonna look, where you’re gonna take pics . . . I know you well!  You’re gonna make me work . . . and I CAN’T WAIT!!!!

Believe it or not, I’m thinking about you guys A LOT lately, too.  I want to make sure I’ve got plenty of time to get all the sessions I possibly can get done before school starts next year.  SO if you book your session early, I’m going to give you a great gift!   Book a senior session to take place BEFORE  July 15 and you’re going to get some exclusive goodies.

Want some extra wallets?  How about 4 sets of wallets (sets of 8, up to 4 poses = 32 wallets)?!  This bonus is valued at $80.00!   Oh, and how about a special storyboard.  I think you deserve one!  That’s valued at $175!  So now you’re up to $260 in goodies!   How do you take advantage of this offer?  You will need to book a senior session to take place BEFORE July 15, 2010.  The session fee needs to be paid in advance to hold your date and is non-refundable.  There are some simple guidelines in order to get these fabulous goodies, so for more information or to book your session, drop me an email. deesouza@aol.com

This special is even good for 2010 seniors who haven’t had their senior portraits taken.  Still want photos taken to send out custom graduation announcements?  Take advantage of this special.  There is still time to book.  All portraits must be scheduled before March 31 in order to take advantage of this special.  Don’t wait!  Times are filing fast!

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February 20th, 2010

A snow adventure with a senior! {Tulare/Visalia High School Senior Photography}

Her mom called and said, “You’re gonna love my daughter!  She’s different and doesn’t want to be like the rest.  What can we do different than anyone else has done?”

Immediately I got excited!  OH BOY!!!!  Wants something adventurous and exciting . . . how about Yosemite?  I’ve only lived in this valley for 40 years and have never been there so I’m totally up for the adventure!  (Please people, save your comments about this.  I know!  It is at the very top of my bucket list . . . but I don’t do real well on windy roads cause I get car sick . . . read on.)

Now, this all sounded great and grand at the time . . . October.  We tentatively planned a date in hopes that snow would be abundant.  That date came and went without a rain . . . or snow.  Then our next date came and it was raining, which also meant snow in Yosemite!  Yeah snow . . . boo driving to snow for photo session.  Postponed, again.  This song and dance pretty much went on for like a couple MONTHS!  But we were both determined to find snow for at least a couple of shots.  So we waited, until January.

By now we were getting panicky and a little desperate because we were actually working up against a few deadlines.  We conceded and decided to stick a little closer to home, and areas that I know, and made our way up the mountain to the beautiful Sequoia National Forest above Three Rivers.  Actually, I knew we could find snow, just wasn’t quite sure how far we’d have to go.  Regardless, I was actually just excited to meet a high school senior that not only has an enormous amount of patience but also had the vision to want to be a bit different than anyone else.  This was definitely one of the more exciting and eventful senior portrait sessions I’ve done!

So Karlene and I met up and ventured to the snow.  We got a little side tracked along the way though.  We found fun backdrops, a few wildflowers, huge boulders, and a meadow that made you really say, “God is truly amazing.  He had such a vision for this place!”

But the end all was when we reached the gate to the Sequoia National Park and the park ranger said we wouldn’t hit snow without chains.

Now, you would think that anyone going to the snow would have thought about that, right?  Sure, I’ve got chains for my little car.  Uh  . . . no.  The feeling of defeat just about killed me.  And Karlene.

“Oh she’s just an old grumpy lady and has no idea what she’s talking about.”  And we drove off.

Now, should I mention here that I get car sick?  Even if I’m driving?  So you can only imagine how both of us were feeling.  Maybe just a little on the queasy side!  LOL!!!  Plus I think it was the first time either of us had seen sun in about a month so that was a bit of shock too.  I had to pull out the Channel sunglasses!

Once we finally found snow (as in a small little patch on the side of a very windy road), I set up.  I don’t typically use flash but I’ve been studying a lot on how to use flash in situations like this, where it’s super sunny and reflective and my good friend Michael at Mike’s Quality Cameras in Visalia is going to be so excited when he sees that I used my Ultimate Light Box!  I was pleased with the results and happy to begin embracing a new technique!  ;)   (that was for you Michael Alvarez)

After I set up, I had a bit of a disaster on my hands.  Remember those Chanel sunglasses I had to put on because it was so sunny?  Well, they had to come off before I could start taking pictures.  And when I took them off, apparently I forgot that I was on the side of a CLIFF and my sunglasses went tumbling down the mountain!  For the reals . . . I could have died trying to rescue the sunglasses!  I did it all in the name of fashion and not wanting to leave a couple hundred dollars on the side of a cliff!  Who knew that a tripod could also serve as a fishing pole for sunglasses gone awol?  I know, brains . . . right?

Regardless of the delays, disasters, and discouragement from the park ranger, we got some great snow pics!  Genuine smiles here and genuine fun because this was just one funny episode after another!!!!  

Karlene, I had such a great time getting to know you and hearing all about your life plans.  You are such a smart girl and have a great head on your shoulders.  I loved that you were up for the adventure and so patient as we tried to accomplish it.  I hope that you love your pictures as much as I do and had as much fun with me as I had with you!  Best wishes after graduation!  Whatever you decide to do in life, I’m quite certain you’re gonna be fabulous at it!  Keep in touch, k?  :)

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February 11th, 2010

ENGAGED – Eric & Piper!!! {Visalia/Tulare Wedding Photographer}

Have you ever seen someone that you thought was so amazingly beautiful that you couldn’t take your eyes off of them?  I’m kinda thinkin’ that Eric had a little of this same thought when he first laid eyes on Piper. I know I did!  And that Eric . . . we’ll he’s pretty handsome himself!  ;)

I will have the fabulous pleasure of capturing all the memories of the wedding day of Piper Robertson and Eric Lucio in March.  And I’m sure that Piper and Eric are going to be stunning just like they were during their engagement session.  Eric wasn’t too fond of the idea of engagement pictures, but because of LLLOOOOVVVVEEEE, he conceded and obviously the camera loves him!  And so does Ms. Piper!  I mean, after all . . . I think she’s got an amazing “bridal glow” going on and that can only be contributed to LLLOOOVVVVEEEE!

I always include an engagement session in every single one of my wedding day packages.  You may or may not want it, but really, it’s the greatest way in the world for me to get to know the bride and groom before the big day!  I’m excited to shoot the Lucio wedding because we had a blast taking engagement pictures!  If we can get through that day . . . make you laugh a little . . . and walk away saying, “that wasn’t so bad. . . ” then we know the wedding day is going to be about a million times better!!!!!

Eric and Piper, enjoy a little peek into the fabulous engagement session pictures!  I’m excited to put together your guest book.  These pictures are gonna make it a breeze cause you look so fabulously in love!  ;)   xoxoxox

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February 5th, 2010

She oozes sweetness! {Visalia/Tulare Senior Photographer}

Yeah . . . she ooooozes sweetness.  And I may have just made up a new word (oooozzzzes) but you get my drift.

I had the crazy crazy ultimate pleasure of photographing one of the sweetest, most outgoing, full of bubbling personality, and absolutely precious high school seniors I’ve ever met.  (OK, I know I say that about them all but really . . . I’m not kidding.  The kids these days just rock my socks!)

AND . .. . she just happens to be this year’s Homecoming Queen for Central Valley Christian High School!!!  So now do you believe me that she oozzess sweetness?  I mean she must be at least PART of that, right?

OK maybe she’s pretty HOT too!  Miss Kylee Rogers . . . I just adore you!  If ever there was a picture next to “All American Girl” in the dictionary, it would be you!    I swear . . . whenever I think of you, I think of your smile . . . that voice of your going a mile a minute . . . and all the big dreams and plans you shared with me!  I’ll never forget the moment you were crowned Homecoming Queen and you looked at me and said, “I cannot believe this.  What just happened?”  What just happened Kylee was that a ton of your schoolmates sent a huge message to you to say, “thanks for being our friend and for being you!  We like you a lot!”

So Kylee . . . congratulations on all the successes you had in high school.  You are gonna be missed . . . but the joy of watching you blossom is gonna be the greatest!  May God be the light and fore front of your life in everything you say, do and think.  Thanks for choosing me to capture your personality . . .  and your incredible beauty!  xoxoxo

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February 4th, 2010

The heart just fits her! {Visalia/Tulare Senior Photographer}

Have you ever just looked at an object and said, “That reminds me of (insert someones name here)”?  I promise that just because Valentine’s Day is around the corner, that is NOT the reason I thought heart balloons would enhance these pictures.  PROMISE!  Read on . . .

I’ve known Kinsie for a long time.  I remember when her mama was pregnant with her.  I used to work with her mom in one of my “previous” career adventures of real estate.  Her mom has always been one of the hardest working women I’ve ever known and busy as a bee.  I’ve always admired her business sense and her drive!  So when I first met Kinsie, I never expected this sweet sweet sweet voice to come from one of Ida’s children.  Her heart and personality is just as sweet as her voice.  But people, don’t let that voice fool you!  The girl has drive just like her mama!!!!  She’s adventurous and a proven leader!

I’ll never forget when Kinsie was in my Community Service 4-H Project.  We had HUGE dreams of doing HUGE things for our project.  She was so enthusiastic about serving her community.  I even remember one day when she went to a service group and asked for donations so that we could work on our community project.  In all honesty, I really feel guilty about not continuing with that project because she truly had a passion for serving people.  I, on the other hand, did not have the time that was needed to do it correctly.  I’m sorry Kinsie that I let you down as a project leader!  I’ve always felt guilty about that, but trust me, I’ve been so amazed at your continued effort to help all the kids in 4-H grasp the passion you have developed for leadership.

Kinsie just spent the last 6 months or so on an adventure of a lifetime!  She went to Australia as an exchange student!!  Honestly, I was absolutely SHOCKED that she went on that adventure.  I never in my wildest dreams thought she would go.  She’s super close to her family!  But you know what happens when you have a hobby and a personality with drive like Kinsie’s . . . you begin to dream about far away places and what it would be like to be in another place, in charge of yourself . . . on your own adventure.

I’m sure that Kinsie has taken herself to many many many faraway places through the power of a book.  When that combination is mixed with her will and intelligence . . . LOOK OUT!  When I asked her if there was any ONE thing she was into and always wanted to remember she immediately said, “I love books!”  So I told Kinsie, bring about 20 of your favorite books and we’re gonna highlight them the way books should be loved!

So back to the heart balloons.

Her heart is huge.  She wears it on her sleeve and loves everyone and everything she meets.  So when I saw these heart balloons I truly thought of Kinsie.

Kinsie, your heart, your mind, your talent, your brains, your adventures,  and your future is limited to the sky . . . which is so unlimited.  I’m so in awe of the young woman you are and can’t wait to see the woman you become.  Never loose the love you have for life!

Thank you for having me capture your senior pictures!  I had so much fun having you all to myself!  I love you Miss Kinsie and wish you all the best in your future!  God Bless You!!!!

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February 3rd, 2010

Sharing the Love . . . {Visalia/Tulare Children’s Photographer}

Can I just share something with you that’s been heavy on my heart? You know . . . since Valentine’s Day is all about love and stuff, I decided that I truly want to show the love to all of you. And there’s a reason why that goes pretty deep. So here goes . . .

About a month ago, I lost one of my dearest friends to that crappy disease – Cancer. I had the honor of taking her family picture for her Christmas cards this year.

I know that many, if not all of you, have lost someone you are close to.  It sucks!  (and by the way, those were her words . . . and now mine.)  I’ve been in a real funk . . .  you’ve probably noticed because part of the funk has been wanting to post to the blog!  And you know what . . . my friend AJ would be FURIOUS with me if she knew this!  She used to always say to me, “Whose coming up  next on the blog????  Hurry up!  I can’t wait to see who’s next!”  She was definitely one of my biggest cheerleaders.

So with that being said, I just want to thank all of you, past, present, and future clients for being cheerleaders for my business . . . for always letting me know how much you enjoy reading about the families, kids, seniors and weddings I photograph.   I have felt like a huge cheerleader is gone and you all have truly helped in filling that void.

So with that being said, I want to show you some LOVE LOVE LOVE for Valentine’s Day.

Now, I KNOW this is super short notice, but if you don’t already have something planned for Valentine’s Day, I would love for you to come take advantage of what I’m offering.  Even if you’ve NEVER had me take your kids pictures before, it’s OK!  I want EVERYONE to take advantage of this!!!  So here’s the scoop!

Way back when, like over a year ago, I came up with this crazy idea that I wanted to find a REAL graffitti artist to paint up a Valentine’s Day backdrop for me.  I have no idea why, I just seem to be drawn to the colors they use!  When I finally found the guy for me, I commissioned him to paint up these super fun backdrops for me.

So here’s the scoop;

FEBRUARY 6

8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Location: TBA

QUICK QUICK QUICK Valentine Photo Opp

Cost: Free (well, kinda  . . . . not really . . .see below)

I’m conducting this photoshoot on 1 day only.  There is no session fee, it’s absolutely free.  The only thing I ask is that you make a donation to the Visalia Rescue Mission.  I’ll have you write out your check direct to them.  Any donation!  No amount is too small!  If you would like to purchase these cute little 4×5.5 Valentine’s for your child to pass out at school, you’ll purchase them that day for $25/25 cards.  5×7 prints and 8×10 prints will all be available to purchase that day.  No orders will be accepted after Saturday, February 6.

SO why Visalia Rescue Mission?  Because it was near and dear to my good friend AJ’s heart.  She would have wanted it that way!  I hope to see TONS of these cute little kiddos on Saturday (yes, this Saturday).  Come . . . even if you’ve already figured something super cute to pass out.  If not, be in the IN-CROWD and get a Valentine that supports a local cause!

MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT RIGHT HERE

And call me if you’re afraid to make an appointment but then all of a sudden decide you can come!  730-6100 . . . I want everyone that can come to be there!  it’s for a great cause!!!!!!!

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January 31st, 2010

Steven & Lisa Hettinga!! {Visalia/Tulare Wedding Photography}

On one date, he pulled the car over and asked her to dance in the middle of the road.  When she left for college, he flew her home a few weeks later, just because he missed her.  And then on another, he took her up in a hot air balloon . . .and proposed.  So does it really come as any surprise that he wanted to marry the love of his life on New Year’s Eve?

I had the ultimate pleasure of being the photographer for one of the most amazing and beautiful weddings I’ve ever seen.  The guests in attendance were in for an amazing treat!  It was probably the most amazing New Year’s Eve party I’ve ever attended.  And what a beautiful way to end a year and start anew.  The night was all about new beginnings . . .  new love . . . and new hope for the future.

Steven and Lisa Hettinga, married on New Year’s Eve 2009, were married at Tulare Community Church.  The evening wedding began with a beautiful photo slide-show of the bride and groom’s life put together by John & Val’s Video in Tulare.  The stunning church decorations were provided by Sweet Memories.  Lori DeHaan of Tulare made the most beautiful church aisle runner.  It was personalized with Steven and Lisa’s name.  GORGEOUS and so unique!

After the ceremony, we all headed over to the Visalia Convention Center where almost 500 people were served and amazing candlelight dinner.  Kathleen Burke was the brains behind decorating the reception venue.  The draping of the ceiling and walls was MAGNIFICENT!  Oh gosh . . . and I can’t forget about the SNOW MACHINE that greeted the guests as they walked in.  The lighting, by Lighting Resources in Fresno, was probably one of the most elegant touches to the room.  Very different . . . yet so very Lisa!  ;)   On all the table, beautiful curly willow sticks adorned with crystals and flowers were provided by Sweet Memories and Details Party Rentals provided some of the decorations including the large round crystal globes.  The catering of the DELICIOUS food was done by Sue Sa’s Creative Catering.  YUM!!  And  the beautiful cakes were created by Shelly Wade of Gourmet Desserts in Visalia.  Absolutely stunning and the groom’s cake was just perfecto!

Other important vendor who provided services for this wedding were Erin’s Announcements, the creator of all the invitations, programs, thank yous, drink tickets, table numbers, EVERYTHING!!  They were so so special!  It was so exciting to receive such a special invitation!  Lisa’s beautiful wedding dress and the “midnight dress” was purchased at Annabelle’s Bridal right in Visalia.  And probably one of my favorite special touches added to the bride’s wedding day attire were the bling bling CUSTOM shoes.  Of course, I don’t think I’m partial or anything because Miss Glitzy Bella herself is one of my dearest friends, but the shoes were TO DIE FOR PEOPLE!   The family was so HAPPY with the service that they received from everyone listed.   Isn’t it great to know that you can get such great service right here in the valley???  You would have thought we lived in Southern California with such fabulous wedding vendors!!

Thank you Steven and Lisa for choosing me to be your wedding photographer.  I absolutely ADORED getting to know you and sharing all the special moments of your amazing wedding day.  I had absolutely no doubt that it would be a wedding to remember.  The date couldn’t have fit you better!  What a fun and special way to spend New Year’s Eve.

To see just how fabulous the wedding day was, click here to see a photo slide show on a new page. Or just watch the smaller one below . . . but the big one is fantastic!  ENJOY!!!  (for best results, let the slide show load entirely before viewing)

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January 25th, 2010

Win a Free Wedding? Baseball Style!!! {Tulare/Visalia Wedding Photography}

So I’m pretty excited about this and wanted to share it with you all!  I was contacted by the Visalia Rawhide Baseball Team (the Advanced-A, California League Affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks) to see if I’d be interested in promoting a wedding to be held at the newly renovated Recreation Park in Visalia, CA on May 15, 2010.  Heck yeah!  I’m always up for something different and funky!

So if you think you might be interested in a FREE wedding . . . I’M TALKIN’ FREE . . . to be held before the actual game, on the baseball diamond, in front of a huge crowd, and your invited guests, then click here to get the scoop!  Applications are due March 15th.    In the meantime . . . enjoy a few images for the promotion of the wedding and see just how fun your wedding day images could be.

Now sing it with me . . . “Take me out to the BALLLLLLL GGGGGAAAAMMMMMEEEEEE . . . . “

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