studio 60 photographic art

W.I.N.T.E.R.

2011-01-15T13:04:00.001-06:00

It's cold.

I don't like cold.

I'm ready for warm summer days, but I'm not ready for the stuff that comes with summer…

It's nice just 'being' for a change!

It's nice having Hubby around in the daylight hours!

It's nice having hot meals and warm blankets.

I guess I do like winter, because everything is bright and simple and clean… refreshing.

I don't mind the 'slow' season, either. It gives me a chance to think creative thoughts and day dream and do crafts…

January – before you're through… Thanks for giving me time to ponder and reflect and look forward, too.

2011-01-07T15:19:00.000-06:00

Are YOU a Savvy Photographer??

Check out this inspirational and very informative website! {and all the cool stuff they offer!}

Ok.... where has the time gone?

2010-11-20T08:47:00.000-06:00

Wow. I have been TERRIBLE at staying connected to this BLOG!

I'm hoping to have all the updates from all summer / fall up here soon!

Right now I'm working on a few sessions to get out to clients and also contemplating how I can get a {large} handful of TuTu's made up so I can get them on the storefront for other fabulous photographers to purchase.

The super wonderful thing about them is that they are totally original pieces. No two will look alike as I'm not focused enough to make a pattern! Of course they will be cute enough to duplicate, but still... they will be somewhat different!

Check out our site to purchase the TuTu's....

This is a sneak at the set to be given away on the PhotoProp Floors & Backdrops Giveaway!!! So excited to be part of such a WONDERFUL vendor pool...

October? Really?

2010-10-17T09:22:00.003-05:00

I looked at the date of my last post on this little ole' BLOG and about died! OOPS! Seems these days between 3 kids, Fall Sessions, editing said sessions and of course those mommy duties... like FEEDING THE KIDS! I can't even keep up with Facebook! How sad is that?

OK. But bonus for me, I envision being able to have something to blog about for a couple months while I get all my summer sessions on here plus lots of new photos on the website! PLUS all those model sessions I sneaked in for my new Baby Portrait Collection! YAY!

Exciting times!

Hubby is in between harvesting beans and corn, so hopefully this year will make good for harvesting before the snow flies! Nothing like harvesting corn TWICE in one year! Yes... Really. It got too wet and too late last year, so this spring before anything else, they had to combine corn... before all the spring tillage and planting... UGH. It was a long spring... especially when Maya was born literally the day before they started in the field!

...Harvesting this spring... and hopefully this fall too!
ANYWHO! Here's some Sunday cheer to the fact that I'm still alive and the kids are well {minus their snot noses} and hopefully I can get on here more than what I have!

My little nephew... {perham, mn photographer}

2010-09-17T08:58:00.003-05:00

I just want to eat him up.

Believe it or not, he and Lilly are 6 months apart, funny thing is... they could really pass for twins. Brother/Sister/Fraternal twins... but hey, who's keeping track!?!??! :)

Anyway, just had to show this one from earlier this summer when ALL the kids were over one evening... which doesn't happen often enough.

...sitting on Uncle Dean's tractor, of course, was a HUGE hit.

A little reminder for ya... {perham, mn photographer}

2010-09-16T09:43:00.002-05:00

The Fall Portrait Special is planned for September 27th - October 8th...

FACEBOOK

2010-09-16T06:26:00.003-05:00

... the most distracting thing on the PLANET.

Oh well, it's a fun way to connect with clients and old friends and be nosy.... uhm, yeah.

Regardless.... be a sport and 'LIKE' studio 60 on Facebook. For the person who suggests the 325th 'LIKER' {I hate how they switched that from 'FAN'} there is a super cute Custom Sterling Silver Holiday ornament and a MINI Session to fill said ornament with a cute photo for them!

Some BABY LOVE for you this morning.... {perham, mn photographer}

2010-09-16T06:22:00.003-05:00

I'm photographing the different stages and ages for my redesigned Baby Portrait Collection... and I had this little sweet heart in the studio...

Not quite two weeks old and she was WIDE awake! What a little beauty with all that dark hair!

Goodbye Skye.

2010-09-08T03:52:00.002-05:00

Our beloved dog, Skye, passed away yesterday. She was a rescue from the Humane Society that didn't go near men until she met my dad; she was as skittish as the day is long and a FANTASTIC hunter... although, not on command but by her own right. She never played fetch and we always dubbed her a 'ditzy blonde', but she was pretty and loving and always crossed her paws when she lay down, like a princess. A great traveler and a not so great listener. Afraid of thunderstorms and over the years suckered 'Grandma' Paulette into letting her sleep in the house in the winter. She made the perfect house dog. Protector. Lovable girl. You will be missed old friend...

SEPTEMBER? {perham, mn, child photographer}

2010-09-06T16:16:00.002-05:00

I have not been abducted by aliens. Really.

I have a FULL schedule of things to do and suddenly have this overflowing urge to do CRAFT projects. Uhm, yeah. I know what I'll be doing this winter, THAT'S for sure!

Anyway.

I totally SUCKED at keeping up with the 365 project. I think I made it.... what? 5 days? Geesh.

Yes, I photographed lots of things between then and now. Yes, I have lots of stuff to show off. Yes, I'm behind on most of my stuff. Yes, my life is crazy with Faith going back to school. Yes, my husband is gone again harvesting the crops in the fields. Yes, it sucks being a stay-at-home-mom-with-two-small-kids-who-don't-nap-whilst-trying-to-run-a-business-while-trying-to-suffocate-the-urge-to-do-CRAFTS and yes I have lots of sessions lined up this month, too.

Did you catch all that?

Photo #5

2010-08-19T21:45:00.003-05:00

My baby girl.

This is her batting around the dangly things on the bouncer chair. While her child-endangering-parent-who-leaves-her-in-said-bouncer-unstrapped watches, thinking that it's just too cute to see her toes and her hands flailing about. Also, 2 seconds prior to her flipping herself nearly out of it.... Don't call the police. I do watch her....

Her rock hard gums sprouted sharp little fangs today... I'm not ready for those either; amongst the 100 other things she seems to be doing at break neck speed. :( Where is my sweet baby going?

Photo #4

2010-08-18T22:31:00.003-05:00

I bet you thought I'd already be a day late with a photo, huh?

I bet you thought that this would be a showcase of my greatest images?

Well.... nope.

These are what I see, hear, do, and accomplish on a daily basis. Sometimes it's not always work, but that stuff always takes a back burner to my children and their doings.

Today was exceptionally chaotic for some reason, yet I managed to sneak in a little nappy when the two little ones did.... YEAH for me!

We had breakfast with Jen and Kadence and then went to town to drop Faith off for band practice... Have I mentioned that she took up the trombone?? Yep...

THEN back home, lunch, naps, wake up, supper, wash all the dishes, feed baby, put babies to bed... and well... here I am.

Regardless.... this photo is of my little peewee who is getting to be more of a chunky monkey... pissed at the world because she's hungry and I wanted to grab a photo. Dean wasn't impressed. :) What do you do?

Photo #3

2010-08-17T10:37:00.003-05:00

There are people whom you know all your life and love just because they are family. Such is true with a lady that I want to be when I'm 90+ years old.

My Great Aunt. My dad's aunt. My Grandpa's sister. A spitfire to say the least and never lacking for conversation. If you showed up at her house in the morning, you were guaranteed a cup of coffee. Show up when lunch was ready and you were sure to get your own plate... To make a long story short, due to some health reasons I got to spend lots of time with her, helping her and doing some daily chores in exchange for not only a little pay, but wonderful conversation and stories about my dad and grandparents growing up...

This Christmas Cactus is a branch off of the one that was in her sunroom for YEARS. It is actually a plant that my GREAT Grandmother had... It's trunk resembled a small tree and looked like it had actual bark on it. This thing was huge! So when she passed away last winter I wanted a little part of her but didn't feel it was my place to say anything because she had her own kids and their families and such... I cried like a baby at her funeral...

However, I was surprised to know that the Cactus was split between a couple of us green thumbs and THANKFULLY it is growing and looks wonderful. It means a lot to me to know that with umpteen others to think of, that her immediate family thought of me too...

I know it's kind of dumb to rely on physical, material things to remind you of someone, but every time I look at it I think of her and all the stories she shared with me. Hopefully this can last as long as the next generation and I can pass it down to my girls...

Photo #2

2010-08-16T16:05:00.003-05:00

I absolutely love my little Maya.

I don't know if it's because my husband and I have made a mutual decision to not have any more children... and this may be the last time I get to snuggle this little baby chub. She's growing up too fast! But how I love her huge grins and her hearty giggle and the way she wiggles her way to somewhere she wants to be {yes, already at 4 months!!}

Anyway... this morning before her nap when she was getting comfy, she found her fingers and within a couple minutes dozed off...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

2010-08-15T09:12:00.004-05:00

It's my 31st Birthday today.

Somehow, I still think there's a slight chance that the balloons and confetti will fall from the ceiling when I wake up and there will be the smell of coffee and breakfast in the air and a vase of flowers on the nightstand, with all my children sleeping peacefully so as I could have just a few minutes of quiet before the house erupts.....

Sadly. That doesn't happen!!

It was a whirlwind LAST minute decision to have 9 extra people over for supper last evening for my in-laws anniversary and leaving to go shopping at 5pm when supper is at 6:30... well... let's just say my husband is amazed at my efficiency! :)
We stayed up WELL past {ok, midnight is late for me} our bedtimes... especially since I wanted to hit the flea market this morning. However, Maya was up at 3 because she was hungry and then decided that she wasn't going to be happy at all for a couple hours. Lillly was up at about 6 because she had a little accident, which is like... the third since she's been wearing those 'big girl' panties for the last 2 months... grrrrrrrr. and Maya is awake again. Hungry.

The house is a wreck and the kids need baths and I'm sooooooooooooo tired!

I might just attempt to make it to the flea market yet this morning... and the thought that my Momma baked me a cake makes me smile! {Of course, it could have been the wining about not having a birthday party planned that did it... } LOVE YOU MOM!
Oh well, all is not lost.

Today I'm starting a 365 project. Nothing new for the world, except that I've never done one. A photo each day to tell a little story. Probably about the kids. A personal 365 photo journal of what will happen up until I turn 32...

Here is a photo of a canvas from my office that is going to find it's way back to Wisconsin where this pretty lady lives... that peewee of a baby was only 8 days old in the photo, and now she's expecting a new brother or sister soon! Can't wait!So, for now, it's off to the races and I really gotta find that cup of coffee! :)

Happy Anniversary...

2010-08-14T05:49:00.003-05:00

My in-laws are celebrating their 40th Anniversary today! Congratulations and thank you for not killing your eldest child so I could marry him. HAHA!

That's not nice!

It's been just crazy around here lately! Although I almost feel like I've been on a vacation because I have had 3 weekends now in a row without weddings scheduled. It's been kind of nice! Next weekend starts the weddings again and then all of a sudden it'll be September. Yikes!

Last weekend was my Mom's birthday and we thought it would be nice to head out, just the two of us and do something together. Usually if we do something, there's a mission involved, not just going with the flow... We decided on Carlos Creek Winery near Alexandria, which is totally different than what I expected! It was wonderful! However, it was hotter than hell outside and that just drains your energy... so after the wine tasting we probably would have been more in the mood for naps, however we drove into town and scoped out a couple antique/junk shops. Saw lots of great stuff that I would have been MORE than happy to drag home with me had I had a larger vehicle and a fatter wallet!

Oh well!
On the plus side, we RARELY stop at random garage sales because well... it can be a total waste of effort, but on the way towards the winery I saw a garage sale that had paper lanterns hanging in a tree... and I made the off comment about how I had a great idea for some of those things and needed to find some... Mom said to turn around and go back because they may have been for sale... Now normally, I would have just said forget it and kept driving but this time we DID turn around and head back only to find a WHOLE BOX of paper lanterns {which was exciting to me} and other miscellaneous wedding items that were from a pretty upscale wedding {we got to see photos} and we called my cousin who is recently engaged and told her about all the stuff and to make a long story short... we ended up getting some stuff for her. YAY for not paying full price for silly things like candles and and paper lanterns! :) LOL!

As for my idea, you'll have to wait until I get all my ducks in a row... It'll be good, I promise!

But alas, I'll leave you with a photo of Mom at the winery... It's 6am and I have to go and pick 12 dozen ears of corn for a gal, and then meet a lady in town and then bake some cupcakes and probably let 'the Lilly' go swimming a little in her pool... Tomorrow is my 31st Birthday! The crazy deal of the day is if you book your SEPTEMBER session TOMORROW {August 15th} you will get your session for only $31! But just by booking it tomorrow, Sunday!

Have a great weekend!

Facebook | Zorbaz on Little Pine Lake's Photos - Wall Photos

2010-08-09T16:08:00.000-05:00

Facebook | Zorbaz on Little Pine Lake's Photos - Wall Photos: "- Sent using Google Toolbar"

Dum, de Dum....

2010-07-20T11:40:00.002-05:00

Good grief! July is on it's way out the door... Where did the time go?

I feel totally scatterbrained today for some reason, like I can't concentrate on any one thing too long for fear I might forget the other million ideas running around in my head...

For instance : A photographer friend and I are exchanging photo sessions for our families because well... DUH. Like the proverbial mechanic who always has a broken down car, we never have family photos. We have photos OF our family, but rarely are we IN them! :) So, then that took a turn to, 'Hmmm... what are we going to wear?!?' and holy Moses, either I'm really lacking in the clothing department, or I'm over thinking this WAY too much. More than likely the former because I see myself buying a whole new set of coordinating duds for this adventure...

AND then there's the trip Mom and I were planning for this fall. Nothing fancy, but just to get the heck out of dodge for the weekend... However, due to some procrastination on my part, we might have to rearrange plans a smidge. Well, really, there are a bazillion things to do in this beautiful state, so where to start has my brain a mess! Any suggestions welcome!

Then there's Lilly who's been wearing big girl panties for a week now and doing MAGNIFICENT! Wow, total 180 degree change from NOT wanting them 8 days ago.

Maya is rolling around and getting so much bigger and I'm sad to say that I haven't scheduled her baptism yet... Maybe today I should get on that.

I haven't talked to Faith in almost 2 weeks... Thankfully {for me} she'll be home in two weeks-ish and I'll get to finally talk to her!
Dean is STILL busy all the time and I'm craving some adult time {aka: DATE NIGHT} with him, since that hasn't happened since before we were married I don't think. Even for our 1st anniversary we already had Faith AND a new baby, so being relaxed and enjoying our time together hasn't happened in eons.

So! Now that you know my life story in a nut shell! Add in all the weddings and other studio 60 sessions that are happening and it seems like life is whizzing by at break neck speed...

Here's a little photo of Maya and my VERY sad attempt to do her '3 month' photos. Trust me. This is one I adore, but that's all I got and it really does take 12 hands to get things done... I swear! LOL! What a little ham, though. She's already giving me that... 'MOTHER' look.

Tyler + Andrea {Perham, Minnesota Wedding Photographer}

2010-07-15T11:23:00.007-05:00

I wish all weddings and wedding parties were like this one. Super sweet, super nice and just plain super... HA!

It was just a perfect day that started out with the uncertainty of rain, but we lucked out and got great cloud cover instead that held off the sunshine long enough to get some great photos at the family farm.
Andrea did her best modeling for the camera with the coaxing of her friends and myself doing some fancy maneuvers and if I do say so myself, she is just gorgeous!
What a sweet couple!
Tyler and his men doing the 'flying V' as it was referred to.... what a bunch of handsome guys! Love the gray suits! They were a nice change from super formal black and they made the metallic purples pop!

Hellooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!

2010-07-12T09:16:00.003-05:00

Oh my GOSH. I am so behind on sneak peeks and posts it's not even funny! However, those are usually the first big chunk of computer time to go when I'm busy and can't get everything done.... Imagine that! But I did feel the need to stop in and say that I'm still alive and that there are some GREAT photos coming this way!

Tomorrow I have a NEW project that I will be tackling... so excited to share it with you as I've never quite done anything like it before, but it should be fun! Can't wait! You'll see what I'm talking about later in the week I'm sure!

studio 60 definitely has some GREAT things in the works lately, like.... the month of July is FAMILY month! What a great thing to have memories of your family. Truly, very important... and also, in July, FAMILY sessions are only $59! With that you receive a complimentary proof book of your session! How great is that?!?

Hmmm... other that that... I'm still missing my Faith as she is in PA with her grandparents. Actually as we speak, she is at a horse camp getting all learned to come home and beg for a horse, I'm sure of it. Not out of the question, but maybe out of the budget a little! HA! Someday!

Went for a boat ride with my mom and brother the other day. Strangely, it was just so nice and I know my mom really enjoyed herself. Since when do both her children congregate in the same place, let alone in the boat. ;) It was absolutely the perfect evening and the weather was glorious. God how I miss living there and boating all the time. Took some photos and I'd love to put them on here for you, however... they're on my mom's camera.... duh.

Anyway! OK! Gotta get on it! Enjoy your day!

Welcome July! {perham, mn photographer}

2010-07-02T19:13:00.003-05:00

Oh wow! So I missed the 1st by a day, and tomorrow is the 3rd... and Sunday is the 4th already and this weekend is DONE. Amazing!

Just thought I'd say a big Happy Birthday to my friend Em today! Many more to you also!

Going to a wedding tomorrow as a guest for a change and the weather is looking UGLY. Ninety-five {95} and thunderstorms? What the hell? Oh, and did I mention I think it's an outdoor wedding?

What do you do?

Not much is new here except I'm missing Faith... she left last Sunday for Pennsylvania to spend the month of July with her grandparents, her ponies and to go to an actual riding camp... Nah, she's not spoiled at all! Oh well, I'm happy she's doing things that I never did when I was a kid.

Lilly, Maya and myself are just chilling out in the blast furnace and being bums. It's too hot to do anything else. No, BTW, we don't have AC. Yuck. Oh well, what do you do?

Other than that! Looking forward to a GREAT month of FAMILY sessions at studio 60.

**All Family Sessions booked in the month of July are only $59!**

Yep, you heard me. Call or email me for dates of availability!

I had better get getting, I think I hear Lilly upstairs 'washing her hands' which I think is her new favorite past time...
Don't you love the photo of my mom {Check out her website HERE} with my girls?? This was at Itasca State Park... and yes, Lilly went swimming in the Mississippi River. Go figure.

Jason + Rose {minnesota engagement photographer}

2010-06-27T15:24:00.009-05:00

A few peaks from Rose and Jason's engagement session at the park... How I looooooove the evening light. Mosquitos suck... uhm, really, but we managed! Can't wait for you wedding in August!

Michaela + Brett {minnesota wedding photographer}

2010-06-23T14:52:00.010-05:00

These two were so wonderful on their wedding day! We couldn't have asked for better weather, even if it dribbled and dripped a little outside... I think I could have taken photos of this girl all day!Michaela has these intense blue eyes that you could just stare in all day...And I don't know about anyone else... but I can see a HUGE canvas of this over their bed in their new home, right??? Right! MY FAVORITE!Isn't she so pretty!A great group of family and friends...A little silliness goes a long way... BTW, those are the new shades that M bought for B... smokin'.Some handsome fellas!

Prayers {perham, mn photographer}

2010-06-18T10:26:00.002-05:00

...go out to all of those affected by Mother Nature's fury yesterday in the little town of Wadena...

A couple things..... {perham, mn family photographer}

2010-06-16T18:03:00.005-05:00

First of all... I was playing around with my BLOG and am not really that excited about the new layout I got myself into... AND right now I don't think I have the time or enough brain juice to figure out how in the world to get it back to the way it was before. BUT! Anyway!

In other news! I CAN'T WAIT! to show you sneaks from Michaela and Brett's wedding... They're on a {hopefully} fabulous honeymoon in Hawaii and I'm hoping to have them done before they return to their crazy hectic lives... as in... they just moved to a new city in a new state like... the week before the wedding. Enough about that! I can't tell all their secrets! :)

During the month of JULY, 2010 studio 60 is offering ALL family sessions for $59! Yep, you heard me. I've been struggling with the fact that I have no photos around our home of our family. Kids - yes. Family - no. Well, not recently anyway! Lilly was just 8 months old during the last ones! Now she's getting closer to 3 and we have Ms. Maya!

I want to make an effort to get families doing what they love to do in the summer... boating, camping, fishing, going for a picnic, swimming, making s'mores... WHATEVER it is that makes your family come together. You all know by now that I'm a photographer who doesn't mind if no-one looks at the camera because I'm in it for the EMOTION and connections that are happening. So no worries over a formal, matchy-matchy photo shoot... I want FUN!

I think of my Dad this time of year because it's been 6 years since he's been gone. And it was sudden and unexpected. No family photos of us all together. Well, not since I was probably 19... And I cling to the image of him and I together at a family Christmas. Crappy exposure, hand in front of my face, bad clothing choices! But it's all I've got and the expressions on our faces are genuine and therefore priceless.

...I bet you can't tell which side of the family I get my looks from, eh?

SO! Enough of the sob story! Let's get to makin' some memories of your family!

Vintage Baby Girl Wall Art {Perham Child Photographer}

2010-06-15T13:22:00.006-05:00

How great would a canvas of one or more of these images {collage style} look in your little girls room? What color paint does she have on her walls? Match it with a pretty, frilly tutu and make something that totally coordinates! How sweet!

Memorial Weekend!! {baby photographer}

2010-05-29T08:25:00.005-05:00

It's the end of May! The weather has been exceptionally pleasant and for some odd reason, it feels like summer is well under way. Hopefully we can hold onto these nice days and fall won't come too soon!

It's been crazy the last (almost) 8 weeks... Maya isn't a teeny peanut anymore and I am just trying to savor all those baby things but excited for the coo's and giggles that are emerging.

Lilly is chomping at the bit to get outside and SWING! which is her favorite thing to do... She runs up to the swings and practically does a belly flop onto them and does her 'airplane' move. She's so funny. Such a helper with Maya too... there isn't too long of a time gap between the baby fussing and a precisely placed paci inserted into her mouth. I wonder if Maya will be a tough cookie like Lilly. So far they have had everything in common from looks, sleeping habits... excellent disposition... Does this mean I'm in for it when the Terrible Two's come around??? :) Well, by then, Lilly will be in preschool and hopefully all is well, right?? Uh-huh. Sure.

Faith is finally done with school! I asked her if she were a shiny new 5th grader and she said, 'Well.... I think'. Duh. I'm sure. If they hold a kid back for getting straight A's, then I might be concerned, but she's such a smart kid that it almost scares me. She does more things than I ever did! Just the other night she went roller skating and she's in dance and she spends the weekends at Grandma's and travels across the country... I told her she's pretty darn lucky because I doubt her sisters will get the same lifestyle she does!!! HA! I'm just sad thinking about the month when she'll be gone on her vaca because what in the world will I do without my helper?

What do you do?
Anyway! Enough about that.

I had a GREAT time photographing little Ms. B for her 1st Birthday shoot! We had balloons and grass and bugs and bubbles and it was great. I love summer evenings.
I can't wait for more.... :)

MAY!!! Don't LEAVE!!

2010-05-18T10:21:00.003-05:00

Holy!

Where has this month gone??? I'm still wondering where April went!! Amazing how time can fly when you're slightly preoccupied with those little ones... Will I ever regain a life? :)

I just looked at my calendar and after June 12th I am busy every weekend until the middle of July! What the heck?

Faith is done with school next Friday already! It just means that she's getting older and more mature! Yikes!

Lilly will miss the preschool boat for this year because she was born in the fall, but that's alright, I don't know if I'm ready for her to leave the nest quite yet.

That's my ramblings for right now, good thing I can type quickly so it doesn't take too long!

Warm weather...

2010-05-16T13:17:00.003-05:00

The things that warm weather does to your brain!! The sun makes you lift your head up to the heavens to soak in the rays instead of burrowing down in the chilly rain. It's nice to have these days finally. This summer I'm looking forward to spending family time. I don't know why, but it feels like it's going to be different than it usually is. I want to take my kids camping, or even on picnic for that matter... Let them run and swim and ride bike. Summers like I remember growing up.

It's so hard when you marry someone who doesn't appreciate living by the water and fishing and relaxing and spending time together! I know he appreciates it, I guess I should just say that I don't feel time is spent wisely enough for us to be together. On the other hand, I did marry a farmer didn't I? But there are days when he's not so busy, and I think he feels like he can't leave the shop for fear of something not being done!! Who knows. It's just me being jealous that he's married to the farm way before he's married to me and even on Sundays when families should be spending time together, he's gone... What a pity party I'm throwing for myself huh!!!??

Enough about him! Ha! :)

Maya is a wonderful baby and I couldn't be more thrilled with her, she's such a little dolly! Last night she slept for about 6.5 hours!! Crazy!

Lilly is my wild child... She's spending the weekend with Grandma and for some odd reason, I just miss her so much! I want to just hold her, but she's not into that very much. She'd rather be running and jumping and playing and chasing the dog! Such an energetic little being, I wonder how and where she gets it from.

Faith? Oh Faith.... My young lady. I came across some photos of when she was bout 5 or so and just can't believe how 5 years can make a child turn into an almost teenager! {Ok, we have a few years for that, but still!!!} Such a smart girl... I don't know how in the world I've been blessed with her as my daughter! She's such a great helper with the little ones and I don't know what I'd do without her.

I can't believe I'm just rambling like this!

Business is going slowly right now... Working on sending out products and gearing up for the summer. The first weddings of the season are right around the corner, so I'm excited for that! I've got different venues this year than usual, so I'm looking forward to all the new places I get to see.

Other than that.... I'm sure I've forgotten something, but we'll save it for another day.

Thanks for stopping by!

The birthday girl....

2010-05-03T13:34:00.008-05:00

I have taken photos of this little lady since she was just a peanut. Needless to say... I DO believe that my child portrait techniques have come a LONG way since then :) Thanks K for being my model on many occasions. Here are some photos of her about a week before her 3rd birthday.

Baby Brain

2010-05-03T13:07:00.003-05:00

Whoa NELLY! Time is flying by!

Ms. Maya is 4 weeks old today. I would say that I can't hardly believe it, but that would seem a little redundant, right? I think the thing that is more amazing is that it's May 3rd and looking at my calendar, it seems that there are a multitude of things popping up. Faith's last dance performance is this Friday... Bars to make for Grandparents Day, baby showers, meetings, sessions, birthdays, Memorial Day weekend {which always makes me jealous because I think I have the only husband in the world who's not into camping, fishing, boating, swimming or anything like that... especially when my kids and I are all about that stuff! That's how I grew up and how I want my kids to grow up...} Oh well. 'Tis the life of a farmers wife I guess. Being single all summer.

Anyway!

All is well otherwise and I have some great images from some recent sessions to show you... That will be the next time around... :)

Baby...

2010-04-13T11:26:00.004-05:00

... is not as demanding as the 'Middle One'. While I could have caught up on my sleep a week ago with the babe... Lilly is ALL over the place and not at all accommodating.

That's all I have to say about that.

Dean is gone to work for 12-14 hour days already and that is tooooooooooooooo long for my patience to deal with! Especially when we got home from the hospital and 2 hours later he mentions that he's 'gotta go'. Oh well. Comes with the territory I guess.

So, this sounds like a whine session, but really, just a place to vent a couple frustrations with the world. I haven't yet figured out HOW in the world I'm going to manage ANY sessions, weddings or anything this summer with a baby AND a toddler. Faith will be helping, but there's only so much I can ask her to do... Should be interesting!

Anyway!
Maya Lee Schultz was born on Monday, the 5th of April and is the sweetest little baby... she loves to just hang out and look around at the chaos that surrounds her! Thankfully, I firmly believe she has been acclimated to Lilly's..... uhm... existence. Noise and all.

Here's a couple Hospital pics... Hopefully going to get some more done this week.

Baby.

2010-03-30T13:24:00.004-05:00

...is not here yet.

But anyway! I thought I would jot a note down here because I've sure been slacking lately on the BLOG! Yikes. I've been totally preoccupied with wondering which day this little bambino will arrive I guess! Hopefully I won't have to go to my OB appointment on Thursday!

Anyway! The weather is finally getting nicer out, but the WIND is cold, so we still aren't outside as much as we'd like. The yard looks horrible, so I apologize in advance for the neglect of the place. Help may be needed in that area this summer, as I'm the one usually in charge of keeping the place mowed! I'll have to teach Faith how to run the lawn mower!

In other news... It's almost Easter. I'm prepared for the spiritual end of it, which should be all that matters. However, there's a birthday party for my nephew and the darned Easter Bunny, too. I'm hoping to be either, a) in the hospital with a baby; or b) just coming home FROM the hospital with a baby! We'll see what He has in store.

Alright. Enough about that. I don't even know if I have a picture to post... I should find one as this is SUPPOSED to be a photo BLOG, not just my diary... but... maybe next time! A baby picture?!?!

Another Birthday Girl! {perham, mn photographer}

2010-03-19T05:58:00.005-05:00

This tot is finally two and she and her sister stopped by {with their momma} for some new photos! Where does the time go? Our babies aren't babies anymore! These girls don't belong in a studio, but need to be running through the tall grass with the wind blowing in their hair! I'm sure we'll have a chance to do that this summer... but for now we got some closeups of those big brown eyes that just make you melt! I love it!

Birthday Girl 'T'!

Aren't they cute?
Big Sister 'M'!

My lens gets me the most serious of looks.... {perham, mn child photographer}

2010-03-16T07:59:00.006-05:00

'Do you see something in there???'
'Is there a puppy in there???'

Yep. I use a 'shorter lens' and get nice and close to the kids so I can interact with them while shooting... I ask them to look in the lens and if they see something and the giggles and wiggles go away and the wide-eyed... 'Are you serious?' looks come out. I'm a sucker for those... EVEN though I know Mom wants their baby smiling and sayin' cheese. It's all about the eyes for me. Really!

I love it.

Here's a sneak at Mr. C and his 18 month photos. What a little charmer. The last time I photographed him he had the cutest baby cheeks and now he's stretching out to be a handsome little toddler! How those times fly by and they grow up so quickly.

Happy Baby! {Perham, MN Baby Photographer}

2010-03-09T12:43:00.005-06:00

As I was gushing that I could have taken pictures of this little sweetie ALL DAY.... I realized that the great sessions really out weigh the not so great ones! :)

Ms. K is joining in the Baby Portrait Collections at 6 months old, so we'll be seeing more of her in the future! I can't wait!

Don't you just LOOOOOVE that hat? Oh my GOSH! It's my favorite!

Birthday Boy {perham, mn photographer}

2010-03-04T10:20:00.005-06:00

Another graduate of the Baby Portrait Collections! Mr. Michael has the most amazing blue eyes and is just a handsome, mellow, sweet baby boy! His Momma brings the cutest clothes!

Here's a sneak at a few from his recent visit!

I TOLD you!! {Perham, MN Child Photographer}

2010-03-03T11:46:00.007-06:00

I can't resist sharing these images with you because they're just so darned cute! Ms. Brenna is 10 months old and a serious candidate for the cutest kid ever!
Ms. BravePants taking a few shaky wobbly steps on her own!
She didn't mind the fluff 'n' stuff too much... although it looks a LOT like Cotton Candy!

MORE Cuteness.....

2010-03-03T09:06:00.002-06:00

...on the way to the BLOG... if you're a FAN on facebook... well, then you've already seen them... and can follow A LOT quicker... :) Just saying!

I love balloons!

2010-03-02T04:46:00.005-06:00

Really... balloons are even more temperamental than flowers! It's sad to see them sitting on the floor when you wake up in the morning! Good thing they at least lasted through some photos.... {and a little ohhh-ing and ahhhh-ing from Lilly} We got to visit with Ms. Megan for her 1st Birthday photo session. Has a whole year really flown by? Wow! She's such a cutie and although we didn't exactly succeed in the TUTU department... it was a fun time!

Getting out of the BLAH's.... finally....

2010-02-22T13:18:00.002-06:00

So : If you've been within ear shot lately... {or keep up on Facebook, or had an appointment or session} you probably know that I've been dealing with a MASSIVE sinus infection that basically knocked me on my ass for a week. In ADDITION to being sick for about a week before that didn't help any either! My poor husband is glad I'm up and mobile and not so whiny, but I'm sure the constant nose blowing is getting annoying. I know it is for me! HA!

Anyway, I'm still alive and can't wait for this week to unravel because I have some cute 1 year 'Baby' girl images for you and this week we'll have a new friend in the Baby Portrait Plan, too. Sure to be busy!

studio 60's MINI Spring Sessions are planned for the week of March 8 - 12th, so if you're interested, get on the stick because they're booking quickly.... Only $49 and you get 25 photo cards for FREE! {Something for Easter?!?}

Other than that....

About 5 weeks left for the bun in the oven... I'm nervous, excited.... a little scared! I don't feel prepared, but I know I am. It's all in God's hands and I am sure His plan is good.

So : Really, just wanted to 'check' in with everyone! Take care and I promise there will actually be some PHOTOS in the next post!! :)

Where the green grass grows...

2010-02-05T09:57:00.004-06:00

It's been pretty quiet around here lately. Well..... if you AREN'T counting the constant jabbering from a 2-year old and the regular day to day madness!

I've got babies graduating out of the Baby Portrait Plan which makes me sad, but a couple new ones to tide me over and the ones who are in the midst of their sessions.... It's so fun to see all the different ages!

My desk is filled with GARDENING books and notes about things that need accomplished this summer... we'll see how that goes! I'm starting to think of ways to get in my volunteer hours for being a Master Gardener this year. Shouldn't be too hard. I like helping people; I like to talk and I like to garden. SO! When you combine those 3 it doesn't take much effort. Right now I'm just wishing that I had my permanent garden space figured out, but instead we've been traveling around the yard trying to find the best place where there won't be future construction or traffic... Good soil... Easy watering... So far it's been kind of wash. I mentioned to my husband that the old farm house site would make an EXCELLENT area for a garden. We just need to move the house... Any takers?

I just long for the warm days. Sitting outside in the evening... Watching my garden grow. Sounds like I'm reminiscing, but really... this time of year I'm in a mental FUNK from not getting enough sunshine and it's like I can TASTE the summer coming! Busy, wonderful, warm, sunny summer! If you can't tell, I'm a complete summer child. Born in the middle of August when it's the hottest! I crave the smell of lawns being mowed and the vibrant green life all around me!

But enough about that! Here's one of my favorite images of the girls.... I can't wait to see this again either... Faith pulling Lilly in the wagon. For SOME weird reason or another, she likes to lie down in the wagon and stare at the sky. Funny. :)

February 1st!

2010-02-01T15:16:00.006-06:00

So I'm sure you all knew the date already, but holy smokes! Wasn't it just Christmas yesterday?? Now I'm thinking about Spring and writing gardening articles! Geesh. I don't know if I could ever work at a magazine where you do things 3-4 months ahead of time!

Had a Dr. appointment today. In and out. Everything's good. Only 8 weeks to go. Oh. My. God.

Just got a great album in the mail today... Oh yeah. Love how different they all are! These are the albums that are included in *most* of the studio 60 Wedding Collections... uhm, yeah. Everyone should have one of these babies!

Notice the pretty wrapping it comes in... FROM THE COMPANY!
I love the color combo on this one! Matches the wedding perfectly.
Definitely something to display and since it's REAL leather, it's meant to be touched and looked at all the time.
Can you FEEL the texture? Yes, it's that cool.
Thick, sturdy pages. Don't be eating your Buffalo Wings whilst looking at your book and it will last you forever.These are available for ANY session, big or small and can be coordinated to your own whims and desires! Love them.

Where did January go?? {Perham Photographer}

2010-01-28T11:03:00.002-06:00

Wow, to think that in 2 months... Yes, only TWO MONTHS!! It'll be time for the Schultz family to expand by one. It doesn't seem possible, yet it gives me a little excitement knowing that until then, the days are getting longer and the temps will be getting warmer {well, maybe...}

I wanted to extend the Baby Portrait Plan invitation to all of you who are expecting or know someone who is... It's such a super offer that it's almost ridiculous, but I KNOW how difficult it is to keep track of photos, and those little milestones of Baby's First Year... This is the definite NO BRAINER of all photo opportunities!

5 Sessions : Newborn, 3, 6, 9 and 12 Months all for $159!! Regular individual sessions are $99! Plus you receive a complimentary 5x7 Gift Print with each session... and no obligation to buy anything else. At the end of the 5 completed sessions, you are entitled to your choice of one of MANY great gift options, exclusively from studio 60!

Email me for a complete brochure / and Collection pricing or just to ask more questions!

The wonders of a Newborn...

2010-01-26T04:56:00.004-06:00

I can't begin to explain why the wee babies amaze me so much... Is it because they're so perfect and little? Is it because I'm a mother {somehow, I don't even think the BEST Dad's even comprehend the miracle of it all} and I know that after 9 months of being uncomfortable and gaining weight and going through what could be the most painful experience that should happen to a person without drugs.... it all gets forgotten when that little person arrives in this world. When they're little and just sleep and eat because they're growing and pretty soon running and in school.... but when they're tiny for such a short time, nothing else matters...

I had the honor of meeting this little man last week, and to be honest... As much as I feel like I've "done THAT before" and also getting prepared for #3 in our house in a couple months, I just can't help but get happy and goo goo eyed... Weird. I know. Especially when my 10 and 2 year old were arguing upstairs during the session {much to my frustration}.... Go figure.

Anyway! Here's a sneak at Mr. R's session. Thanks Mom and Dad for choosing me to capture his First Year.

Lots going on!

2010-01-19T09:15:00.002-06:00

Oh for the love of everything that's good... I've been terrible at Blogging lately! Too many things to do, too much procrastination, too many distractions... TOO MUCH FACEBOOK! Ha! No really...

On Saturday I attended the funeral of my Great Aunt... someone who was like another Grandmother to me, but strangely like a long lost best friend! I've obviously known her my whole life, but recently, as an adult, had the chance to reconnect with her during a recovery from a heart attack... We talked about anything and everything, from soup to nuts and she just inspired me so much... I know I was completely partial to her and her whims because as my Dad's aunt, she always thought of him as a favorite... I loved when she would tell me stories about her childhood and also anything that related to my Dad and Grandfather... Dad's been gone for 5 1/2 years and Grandpa will be 10 in a few weeks... The Old Lady had a Christmas Cactus that belonged to her mother, my Great-Grandmother, and I received part of it after the funeral... What a way to start a conversation about the cactus that will HOPEFULLY grow and continue to bring back memories of my time with her!

Anyway, I cried like a baby, and I'm sure got some strange looks, but she really was an inspiration, being a widow for 37 years and raising 7 kids! Oh yes, I could go on and on and on... I'm just glad that the Lord intervened in her life, so I could have the chance to spend time with her... She'll be dearly missed.

I don't even have a photo for you, even as I'm looking outside and seeing some of the prettiest frost on the trees. I should venture out and get a few photos!

Today marks Week 30! I really can't believe it! Yesterday we had an ultrasound and watched 'Baby' puckering her lips and it was so cute... Amazing. The next few weeks will fly by, I'm sure.

Lilly is with my Mom and Faith is at school, so the house is quiet, except for the rumble of the dishwasher and my Husband of 3 WHOLE years {today!} is listening to Swap 'N' Shop in the Jacuzzi... ??? Yes. This is our life! Crazy.

I {HEART} YOU!

2010-01-03T22:49:00.004-06:00

Valentine's MINI Sessions!

Did you somehow miss sending out Holiday cards with photos this year? Or are you just in the mood for a little something different? Spread a little bit of sweetness around with a MINI Valentine's session for your little heart throb! You'll receive super deals available exclusively during the studio 60 MINI Sessions... Call or email today!

1/2 Hour Sessions available February 1st - 5th!
Receive Collection Pricing {a 20% discount} on all orders!
Only $49, regular sessions $99

ALSO! During the month of January, receive {4} 4x6 Gift Prints FREE with any Collection Purchase! A $30 Value, available to NEW January Sessions only. Expires 01.31.10

Bring on the Babies!

2010-01-02T15:06:00.006-06:00

Here at studio 60, one of the hardest clients AND possibly some of my favorite... are the babies. Sweet innocent little angels. One of the Good Lord's perfect miracles we can witness almost everyday. Of course all God's children are miracles, but when attitudes, tempers and even some degree of 'adultness' sets in... It's hard to believe that... HA!

No really...

I'm super excited to hear about the new babies arriving in 2010, and even more excited about the ones that will be visiting me for their portraits!

Here are some of the GREAT new announcements available at studio 60. Remember! These are totally custom to suit our clients needs and all of them are available in, of course, Blue or Pink, making for about 12 new designs all together! Love them sooo much!

Last Day of 2009 {perham, mn photographer}

2009-12-31T15:53:00.004-06:00

Do you have a New Year's Resolution?

I have MANY for throughout the year, but needless to say, I usually stray from the path of goodness because 365 days is a LONG time.

But this year, my goals {'Resolutions' make it seem like a chore} are to enjoy my family, even if there are many moments that I want to pull my hair out, and to be a better wife, parent, daughter, sister and of course friend. 2010 will bring many changes to our lives... Such as around the Easter season, God willing, we will welcome a new addition to our family. My business is steady, which is great and my calendar is looking to be filled again with weddings and seniors and families and babies, OH MY! I can't wait.

To all of my clients, past, present AND future!, I'm looking forward to another year of watching your families grow; to providing you with great service and even greater products!

Here's wishing you Happiness, Healthiness and most important... Love. Without that, nothing else is worth it.

Happy New Year!

{Aaaaaaaaaaaand I know I posted this picture already... it just makes me laugh every time I look at it!!!}

Check out these fun Canvas Ideas.... {perham, mn photographer}

2009-12-28T16:40:00.008-06:00

Love, love, LOVE these products.... You know me and my canvas craze... I have 10 of them hanging in my office!!! Here's an extremely super way to get the most from your session and make a true statement in your home. Choose from 10 custom designed clusters... symmetrical or asymmetrical designs as well as unique circular clusters.

AND!!! With the the addition of the new Portrait Collections added to the list of studio 60's products for sale, you can get these Canvas Clusters at a 20% discount when purchasing ANY of the other Collections. THAT'S A HUGE SAVINGS!

My girls...

2009-12-14T08:14:00.004-06:00

So I had asked my husband if he would help me out with the girls in trying to get some updated photos of them. He's looking at me like I'm an alien.

Really.

Until I tell him that it's virtually impossible to be the Mom, and 'fix' things and 'help' when you're behind the camera trying the get the kids' attention. And be the 'fun, happy photographer' !!

Now, I know every parent on the planet has those times when the kiddos just don't cooperate. I thought at 9am that it would be smooth sailing. Let's just say we ended up having candy for breakfast to get through the 'session'... as mini as it was. :) I love my girls, but they have a tendency to roll their eyes and want to run away from because of course, they've been my guinea pigs to test new lights, new backgrounds or whatnot... so for actual pictures? Good Luck to me. So, anyway... Here are few that we caught of the two.

The both of them... of course the little one ran around dancing when she FIRST had the hat on... but 3 minutes later when I asked her to SIT, off it came, but this is so totally her it's not even funny!...and you've seen this expression and pose a hundred times with Lilly... Smiling is for laughing otherwise we're DEVIOUS!...and of course my other baby who you don't see much of because she's in school and all those other good things... She just had her 10th birthday... Wow, time does fly!

1 Year Old! {perham, mn photographer}

2009-12-07T07:44:00.004-06:00

Little Ms. K stopped by for her 1 Year visit of the Baby Portrait Plan... Kind of a bittersweet moment I must say! It's just amazing to realize how these kids have changed in the last year! I am in love with watching them grow... It's a perfect gift for someone if you don't know what to get them, OR yourself!! and are expecting... because really... what else could you give a new mom that lasts a whole year?? 5 Sessions {Newborn, 3, 6, 9 and 12 Months} with a freebie 5x7 at each visit and a great gift at the end. You can obviously purchase anything you need in that entire year, or always be reassured that you have an updated photo every 3 months, because HEY, those babies take up a LOT of time!! Call or email me for more info!!

Here's a sneak peek...Hats just aren't her thing.... but ohhhhhhhh so cute...AAAAND quite possibly my favorite photo in a LONG time!!! {Ok, that's a lie, there are lots!}

December 1st... Already?!?!

2009-12-01T12:14:00.004-06:00

This last weekend surely flew by and now it's already Tuesday! On Sunday we went to a hotel that has a great water park for Faith's birthday. It was a nice trip as my mom, my in-laws, our family and our 4 nieces were able to splash and play and hang out. All too soon it was over though! Imagine that!

It hasn't snowed here yet, and even though I'm glad for the 'extension' that the Good Lord has given the farmers out harvesting, I am SOOOOOOOO ready for it to snow. And be white. And clean. And bright. I'm getting a little burnt out on the dead grass and brown.

Whewww! There are still so many things to do in just a short amount of time!! I have to get my Holiday cards figured out... I would like to put a few more lights up, and get the tree up and done.... carpets cleaned and... and... and...

Oh well, in the mean time, I get to see the cute babies who come in for their sessions, and I love each and every stage that they're at. So much fun. So here's a little sneak at Ms. M and her 9 month visit... So cute.

Ohhhhh.... the Holidays {perham photographer}

2009-11-20T12:03:00.007-06:00

I love them so much. I love getting together with family {really} even though sometimes I'd like a quiet evening alone with husband... BUT! Since quiet isn't a word that describes our home... we might as well go and spend it with others, right?? :)

I LOVE gift giving. I LOVE seeing the kids' eyes opening gifts. I could care less if I ever got one as long as I made someone else smile and be happy.

This is partly why I love 'capturing your moments'... It's a mini break from life to forever capture a moment that will never happen again... It has been documented and with the wonderful choices available these days, can be preserved in so many ways...

It's all we have when our memories fade... It's all our children and grandchildren will have when we're gone. Pictures. Important, funny, loving, storytelling pictures...

Take more. Talk less. Enjoy life. Smile.

Here's a sneak of Little Ms. B who is in the Baby Portrait Plan at her 6-7 month visit... How I adore watching these little ones grow...

Being SICK is a PAIN in my..... everything...

2009-11-12T13:59:00.005-06:00

So maybe one of these fine November days I'll get rid of this cough and the headaches and the totally lack of energy and be normal again!

Chasing after a 2 year old with the energy of 30 Energizer bunnies doesn't help either. Not to mention that one fine day I got the grand idea to change her crib to a toddler bed... Uhm. There are days I regret that decision! :) But she's doing fairly well, so I can't complain TOO much.

Regardless... I had a few ideas for pictures of the girls in mind ALL fall, and just haven't had the energy to set up, dress them and then be the super cheerful photographer instead of the 'Mom-zilla'... Let's just say that none of the aforementioned got accomplished in one day!

I did however get some shots of Lilly during the daytime, and expect to get some of Faith this weekend while she's home from school, then I can get them together and update a few frames around the house.

SO! This is what I got. Trust me. A whopping 3 images is a VERY good day for Lilly... Don't ask how many I actually took to get these though.... Yikes.

FALL MINI SESSIONS!!!

2009-10-22T14:57:00.003-05:00

A GREAT way to update your portraits since studio 60's Spring MINI Sessions! A great time of year to get out those cute sweaters and jeans for some cozy portraits, or bring your Holiday favorites for some up to date Christmas Card photos!

studio 60 Fall MINI Sessions will be available the week of November 3-7 {Tuesday - Saturday}.

**Just a note, sessions aren't necessarily 'Fall' oriented**

MINI Sessions are only $49!!
Included in the cost is:

- Free ONLINE proofing for 1 week
- 24 Wallets
- $10 off any Holiday Card order!

ALSO! Image CD's for $149!!! That's a savings of $350!

Call/Email to schedule your sitting!

218.346.5420 -or- amanda@studio60photographicart.com

Adventures...

2009-10-16T08:16:00.007-05:00

Ok, if you're reading this and you live somewhere in the upper Mid-West, you know we haven't had the most spectacular Fall weather lately. In fact, it's been down right crappy. I'd use the other word, but for the sake of things....

October has presented me with lots of issues! Rain, sleet, snow, below normal temps and not much sun. YAY for the photographer who does 90% of her sessions outdoors, huh?!

Anyway, to give that cloud a silver lining, I met up with these two, who are planning to get married next summer. Aaaahhhhhhhh summer.... ;) Can't wait!

Looking at these photos, you'd never guess that it was sort of gloomy/overcast out, with traces of snow on the ground and the leaves mostly still green on the trees in a place where there should be brilliant reds and golds and fiery oranges... And to take the cake; it was about 32 degrees outside!

Anyway, here are my heroes of the week for 'just doin' it!' Enough crying over crappy weather!

Cuteness!

2009-10-14T08:52:00.005-05:00

I'm so fortunate to have the the most smily babies to photograph! This little man is definitely one of them! Here's a QUICK sneak at his recent 6 month session. I really love watching the babies grow, and what better way to do it then with the Baby Portrait Collection? Hop on over to the website to find out more. {Shameless plug = I know}

Ahhhh.. the warmth of it all...

2009-10-12T10:28:00.006-05:00

This wedding was back in August when it was, well... WARMER outside. Actually, this particular day was just about perfect.

Vijay and Missy were married at her families lake cabin and talk about adding to tradition! Lots of memories made there and lots more to come, I'm sure. Here's a little sneak at their day...To me... There's nothing like HOT pink in the summer to perk up the day! Love that color!

The Holidays will be here before you know it!!

2009-10-01T13:29:00.003-05:00

Hello folks!

Just a shout out to get all you hot Momma's something different to think about instead of chores that need to be done, or what to make for supper!

This time, it can be all about you... Time to relax, get beautified and definitely kick it up a notch. studio 60 offers Sexy Moments {boudoir} sessions to bring a smile to your face and possibly the person on the receiving end of such photos...

Tailored to fit your needs, your lifestyle, your modesty {or sometimes not} I will work with you to create a collection of beautiful timeless images that you will be proud of. Get some adorable head shots your husband can show off, or get a little naughty... How about some of each? It's all up to you. Get your hair and makeup done at your favorite salon, paint your toes a hot shade of nonsense... anything to make you feel sexylicious.

Sexy Moments {Boudoir} Sessions are $199. You receive FREE online, private proofing, shooting at a location of your choice {ie: hotel, your home, studio, etc} and a sexy little album full of your favorite images...

A little skeptical? Check out the website for testimonials from a few clients. Call me to schedule a chat about what you have in mind, or to see some samples albums and other items available. It's all good!

Genuine.

2009-09-23T14:44:00.005-05:00

I can't ask for more than that. If I feel like I've known people forever, then it just works, right? When I worked at the nursing home, Karen had these two lovely little babies... I remember seeing Taylor when she was just this little dumpling of a baby! It seems like time flies way too quickly and that they shouldn't already be as old as they are... but I guess I haven't worked at the home for two years!

Here's a sneak from their family session 'on the hill'...

PS: It was really cool because while we were traipsing around we saw about 6 deer running through the woods... And NO. I didn't get a picture because we were trying to point them out to the kids!...and just a note... I SO didn't tell the kids what to do in this picture {besides stand behind the fence} and it's just perfect! I love it!

What's for supper?

2009-09-18T13:44:00.004-05:00

HOLY Cats! Where in the world have I been for two weeks??? Uhm. Nowhere.

Not too terribly much happening right now besides loads of editing, sessions here and there, the husband being gone ALL day and night harvesting crops, meetings, appointments, a random wedding and of course the start of school, and after school snacks and HOMEWORK that needs checking and dance classes and making supper and cleaning house (ok, that one's a lie), chasing after a toddler who thinks she wants to go 'potty', and making sure someone pays attention to the dog, TRYING to visit with a friend here and there and wow.

I'm pooped.

I've got orders ready to ship on my desk, a 'DOODY' list a mile long and somehow, I can't figure out how anything gets done AT ALL!! Oh well....

C'est la vie, n'est pas?

Ok, I'll shut up now because I should get some things ready to go for Monday and tomorrow the babe is going to visit some relies and I am hopefully going to get the yard under control again. It's looking a little jungle like AND to all my clients who've SEEN it like that recently... My apologies!

Anyway.

Have a great weekend!

PS! Can't WAIT to travel up north(east-ish) to Bayfield and gather me up some more wonderful apples and cider and.... of course... the wine. :)

{2009} Holiday Card Designs!!!

2009-09-02T06:03:00.008-05:00

I'm so excited about these card designs.... Elegant, fun and completely customizable! Whether you like the traditional folded, funky flat or a great tri-fold... It's here... 8 great designs to start with, but the options are endless...

And the WINNER is!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-09-01T07:55:00.005-05:00

Bob & Jenifer Schempp for booking a Family Session with studio 60... All Family Sessions booked May through August were eligible for winning.

See how easy that was?!?!? ;)

They won a $100 gift card to spend anywhere they like! Congrats guys! It'll be in the mail soon...

Who wouldn't want to just SQUEEZE these cheeks!

2009-08-31T14:20:00.006-05:00

OMG, I just giggled when I saw this curly haired little bundle of cuteness when she visited for her 3 month pictures... She babbled away and tried very hard to shove that little fist entirely into her mouth... Drool, cuteness, giggles... What more could you want from a happy baby!?!?Gettin' a little air time with Daddy! She loves it!

Ohhhh... they grow too quickly!

2009-08-31T12:38:00.005-05:00

This little peanut is growing sooo fast! But I love it because I think it's my favorite baby stage... The "sitting up and really attentive and curious about their surroundings" time... Here's a sneak at Ms. M's visit...The tutu was uncharted territory and was OFF in no time flat!She ALSO went to her first TWINS game!! We need to mention to the higher ups to get some PINK jersey's! :)

studio 60 GETAWAY WINNER!!!!

2009-08-29T10:47:00.002-05:00

... to be announced September 1st... So you have to wait until then!

ALSO!!

The {2009} Holiday Card Collection! YEAH!! I promise you'll love them! They're great. Eight great styles to choose from.

SO STAY TUNED!

2009-08-29T10:38:00.005-05:00

Here's a sneak at Amanda & Sean.... Relaxed, casual... FUN :) The only girl I know willing to risk a cow pie for some pictures!! LOL! No really, I'm excited to photo their upcoming wedding because it's going to be in one of the area's beautiful state parks... So pretty!

Stephanie & Kevin {the WEDDING}

2009-08-26T08:44:00.007-05:00

An absolutely beautiful day for a wedding, in probably one of the prettiest churches I've seen! I loved that the bride wore Grandma's pearls and Mom helped her into her dress... Here's a a glimpse of their day...A fun bridal party is always a good thing!The blessing is one of my favorite parts of the ceremony...

Coming SOON!!!

2009-08-24T11:49:00.002-05:00

...to a BLOG near you!

Amanda & Sean {the Engagement}

Baby Megan

Baby Brenna

Darren {the Senior}

Missy & Vijay {the Wedding}

the Ahrens-Wetmore Family {vacation}

and maybe even some family pics from Grandma's Birthday party if you're lucky. :)

Stay Tuned!

Location, location...

2009-08-17T16:20:00.006-05:00

In lieu of NOT repeating myself and making my images look all the same... I moved down 5 feet to the next section of building.... HA! Coming from a small town and trying to get some great looking shots requires a little thinking. There are no bad alley's to walk through... There aren't any 'dark' area's of town... So. You just make do with the junk {I, uhm, mean STUFF} on the side of the road and embrace it. I think we did just that! 'D' was such a goof and it was fun directing him in each shot... I love making it feel like a model shoot instead of a typical Senior Portrait Session... Ya gotta have a little fun! Here's a sneak!

AMAZING. all I can say...

2009-08-14T18:06:00.008-05:00

This girl is such a natural... A natural beauty. A natural on her horse. A natural super personality. AND best of all.... Natural in front of the camera. I couldn't have asked her to do anything that she did any better... she just DID it. These are the sessions that I could do everyday. Thank you K! I hope you love the little sneak of your pictures!Yeah, I'm lovin' this one with her in the lake!Fun how the colors change so quickly.... The images above and below where taken like.... 3 minutes apart...

BLOG BOREDOM!

2009-08-12T11:59:00.002-05:00

So with the serious addiction to FACEBOOK... yes, you heard me... I find that my BLOG gets a little less love than usual. I do realize that not ALL of my adoring fans are on FB... {HAH} and I still put the same amount of love and photos on here... What I do love about my blog is that it's more of a story line... it's a commentary about life and what's going on and the 'this and that's' of studio 60... CHEESE, but that's ok.

We finally have summer around here... weather warm enough to make you want to sit in the lake ALL day and do nothing... I miss living by the water. I miss taking a morning swim while the water is smooth like a mirror and the air is still cool. I dream about the smell of the fresh lake air and the sound of the loons in the evening... Right now? I am surrounded by fields and a busy highway... BLEH. :) I'm working on hubby to see the light and at least THINK about a piece of heaven on a lake somewhere... even if not to live.. but to enjoy. {and partly because then the kids could play and splash and swim and I could get a laptop and work from shore or on the dock.... uhm, yeah right!}

Someday...

Enough about that daydream! It's been a crazy busy month already and it's only the 2nd week! I have loads of work to do. LOADS. My house is being neglected. The baby {who's not a baby anymore} is boycotting naps and life is CrAzY! Faith is thinking about school and already planning a Halloween party! Geesh! One thing at a time!!

Oh well... come Friday I hope to be able to take some time to chill and relax... Saturday is my BIRTHDAY!! 30 already... Where does the time go?

But in the mean time! Stay tuned for some SUPER SENIOR sneaks because we've got some great ones coming your way... And and wedding.... and an Engagement.... and yeah... like I said. BUSY!

Shades of Summer

2009-08-10T09:33:00.008-05:00

It's finally starting to feel like summer around here... and LOOK like summer too... when C + J came over with their boys we went on a nature hike... similar to most sessions... but I love how depending on the time of year, everything looks so different. In a couple weeks the wheat will be gone and the vines and grasses will be turning their fall colors of red and gold... Kind of depressing thinking about the end of summer, but everything puts on a new show for the next season. Here's a little sneak at their family!This is my favorite image of all!! It's so them... I suggest big wall art for this one! :)

fa . mi . ly

2009-08-04T16:15:00.007-05:00

The rain let up just enough to let us meander through the park for some great family images. I adored how cute they all were! As with any session, my only suggestion is to COORDINATE, but not to match. Super perfect. And funny??? My kind of people. Here's a sneak peek! BY THE WAY!!! The image below is deserving of a huge canvas on the wall baby!! :) ADORABLE!L.O.V.E. it!!

Weather or not....

2009-07-31T07:53:00.004-05:00

I usually anticipate August weddings to be those that require a shower half way through because it's so darn hot out... but the way this summer has been going... I might need my jacket!

These two are getting married tomorrow and I think they're going to have a spectacular day!

Here's to you S & K for a beautiful day and great start to your life together...

A GREAT place.....

2009-07-27T13:07:00.002-05:00

... to get the CUTEST outfits for your kids... LOVE the simplicity and the fact that they put a few cute outfits together and most everything there coordinates so you don't even have to try too hard! Great for us busy parents.

PS : they're VERY reasonable.

www.childrensplace.com

Check them out....

New Toys...

2009-07-22T13:59:00.005-05:00

So I'm glad I have Lilly around to test things on... because well... the rubber chicken just doesn't sit very nice!

I've had some things posted for sale lately and some fellow photo friends were curiously wondering if I was just throwing in the towel or what in the world was going on.... But no... I was clearing out the stuff that I've probably only used about twice in the last 5 years... So!! Adios! And with that I could afford to buy some new toys. Like... Some new lights! :) Yeah! NOW, I know I'm in love with natural light, AND I would probably shoot a session outdoors in the rain before doing anything else.... BUT, until I have a permanent {as in... separate from my home} studio that has a huge wall of windows for me to use all the time... I am going to move my operation down a level in the house {where it's cooler} and where I can keep my things set up and ready to go. There you have it. The secret is out.

So, in the mean time, I needed Lilly to model, and I love the bright colors on her, so in them she went and sat for a least 3 seconds so I could get a shot... :)

On the path to organization.....

2009-07-18T08:38:00.004-05:00

... of course... It's not like I don't veer off said path from time to time... HA!

Oh well, what do you do?

My ASSISTANTS desk...
The new shelves in my office.... They won't stay empty too long! If you're wondering.... or, well, even if you're not... that black board in front holds 30 of my favorite frame samples. That means that you don't have to wonder where you could get a frame, or wonder if you have to drive long distances to get that finished product... NOPE. studio 60 does it all, so you don't have to worry about that. I {Amanda} even come to your home to help measure for an appropriate size, assemble, AND HANG your prints as well, all included in the cost. Talk about service!

B.O.R.I.N.G.

2009-07-16T09:21:00.003-05:00

....or maybe just too busy... I can't decide which!

It seems I've been running in every direction this week and accomplishing NOTHING! How does that work? I've had some new studio equipment for 2 whole weeks and have not got to play with ANY of it! My mom, my two nieces, Lilly and myself went camping near Alexandria with about 90% of my mom's relatives for the family reunion... We had loads of fun, but when you just move your 'parenting' operation into a tent, I don't think it ever escalates into a vacation... So, I could definitely use one of those soon! :)

Work may be beginning on the shelving in my office, which would be lovely because I have everything strewn across the floor in my office. Waiting. Patiently. Ok, not patiently, but I'm not a carpenter, but I sure wish I were. I should have paid more attention to my dad when I spent countless hours with him in the garage while he built stuff.... :(

Anyway! I am happy to report that August is nearly booked for sessions, so if you're still on the fence, you had better call to see if I'm available...

So. In the mean time, yes, I'm still alive and if July would slow down a bit, I would feel a little better!

I'll leave you with a photo of Lilly while we were camping... she needed to get the sunscreen and bug spray out of her hair... So funny... Splashing with wild abandon....

KC's sneak...

2009-07-08T15:16:00.006-05:00

Ahh.... I will admit the cheese right now by saying... I believe this was the BEST senior session I've ever done. Maybe not 'technically' speaking, but from the clothing, location and fun factor... Uhm, yeah. Ringer.

This girl has the most gorgeous blue eyes and yeah... See for yourself...
Her only request.... This was executed very gracefully I might add!! :)

Divide and conquer!

2009-07-03T10:36:00.003-05:00

This is just a reminder to all of our customers, even if we haven't met yet...

studio 60 offers custom albums, awesome framing selections, wall art and design services to enhance your portrait sessions. We understand that these sort of things don't happen often, and sometimes it can be a considerable investment. This should not deter your initial ideas about ordering something that you know you love. Pricing for any of our wall designs, framing, etc all comes with me, Amanda coming to your home to assist you in placing and hanging the arrangement correctly.

As with any substantial purchase, while it is very nice to have those items paid for at the time of ordering, sometimes it isn't feasible. We live in a society where, now more than ever, people are watching their dimes and sometimes can't afford to use up all available funds on a purchase.

Just like ordering furniture, or a new TV or how about your house or vehicle payment? Most of us don't have the means to just write out a check for those either! This is where the difference is. I WANT you to have that family portrait displayed in your home. I WANT you to have an album of your wedding day, or your baby's first year. I WANT you to be able to enjoy those precious memories without feeling like you just erased all grocery shopping for the entire month because you purchased something outright...

Ask about making payments. Use your credit card. Earn free points or miles or whatever it is that you earn. Here's how it works:

1} Put your session cost on credit card, too! Why not?

2} You have the option to pay for your order in full via cash, check or credit card. No fees for any of those options.

3} Should you decide to make installments via credit card, please note there is a $15 surcharge to cover additional processing fees.

4} Make your initial payment of 35% of total cost + surcharge

5} Be billed monthly until remainder is paid in full. studio 60 also requires having 2 credit card numbers on file to avoid the unlikely instances of a rejected card or NSF.

AND AS ALWAYS! Take your purchases home to enjoy them immediately.

If you have any questions, please contact Amanda

I need another June

2009-07-03T10:13:00.003-05:00

Where in the world did June go? Just a few days into July and it already feels like it was a lifetime ago... I guess it's because the days seem terribly long when Hubby is away farming {and whatever else that entails} for 15 hours a day...

Faith is in Pennsylvania visiting her grandparents... So it's doubly quiet. It hasn't sank in quite yet, because she spends a weekend with my mother here and there but the fact that she's across the country and won't be home until the end of July makes me miss her even more.

I have so many projects that need to get done.... Photos, of course... but the yard is starting to look like a jungle, and I profusely APOLOGIZE to any soul who wanders in because although it's a nagging chore, it's been neglected. I'm in the process of moving my equipment down a level to keep the chaos upstairs to a minimum.... however, the basement is resembling that of a lumberyard right now with many 'good intentions' there as well...

So, on that note... :) It's just been a bit more than chaotic around here and oh well, such is life, right? Life is too short to sweat the small stuff.

Here's a quick snap of my kiddos. God I love my girls!

Quick POLL!

2009-06-22T15:42:00.003-05:00

Which version do you like better??? I'm lovin' both of them...

Karleigh

2009-06-22T15:17:00.005-05:00

I can't hardly believe that this little basket of smiles is 6 months old already... She is sooo inquisitive! I love her expressions too, as she has LOTS of them.... and cute outfits?? Oh yeah... My favorite.

My baby.

2009-06-17T17:29:00.005-05:00

It never fails. Ever. I just wanted to go out and play with the camera and Lilly's cute little dress that {by the time it warms up enough for her to wear it, it'll be too small} she has. Outside. Between the showers. The taller pasture grass is mosquito heaven so we didn't spend too much time... I'd say about 5 minutes. Tops. She is just a goof...

Oops.

2009-06-16T17:09:00.004-05:00

Sooooooooo........ while I was farting around with my SPLASH page on the website... I may have left a few people wondering where in the hell the proofing website went to.... SO! Thanks to someone who brought it to my attention, it is now back where it was previously! :)

That's it. TTFN.

Here's a couple pics of my Bleeding Hearts... Didn't get very big this year, but they're still pretty!

Mark + Stacy {and baby}

2009-06-15T19:21:00.006-05:00

Nature Hikes. It's what I do. Even if it's not very far. :)
Here's a sneak at some baby bump goodness...

"Hey Stacy : Come hang off this branch and do something sexy.... If it bends... well... Bend it... "
{I'm sure she's thinking WTF?!}

fam{ily} time

2009-06-15T18:54:00.001-05:00

{Answer:} Toddler . Dog . Hubby ...
{Question:} Name 3 things that could make a family photo shoot short and sweet!

These have to be some of my favorite images of all times.... I just love outdoor pics. Especially helpful describing an active outdoor family. Beautiful.

Isn't this just the most truthful image ever.... Where ever you are... your babies are always there with you!
How wonderful and personal it is to have portraits taken at your home... A true refection of personality and completely custom. These are possibly my favorite family images to date.... I love the casual familiarity of it all... This [to me] is what life is all about!PS: Small fry had enough by then and even though bribed with $1, she had other plans!

Obsessions. Good ones!

2009-06-12T00:23:00.007-05:00

I have to admit that every day that goes by I find myself learning and growing and defining who I am in the WWAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYY trendy {STAHM-turn-photographer} business / lifestyle that I've chosen for myself... and I finish a stellar session with a perfect child / with great parents who took the time to remember the names of MY kids {even the little one who's unloading the purse and diaper bag that AREN'T hers (or mine...)} and I think to myself... I really love what I do. :) I love wedding photography but it just doesn't compare to the heart string pulling puppy dog eyes of a child. And to be honest, I love watching them grow. I like to see people who I knew before they had kids showing the most uncanny amount of love and devotion... not only to each other but to the new miracles they've created... It totally gets to me! The last few sessions I've had have blown me away.

Here are some sneaks from a little man who gave me smiles the minute we 'met'! So completely adorable. So completely the reason I love what I do for a living. So excited because this is the newest member of the Baby Portrait Plan!!! ;)

I think he looks like a porcelain doll... So cute.He was totally mesmorized by those toes...Can we say adorable? :)

RMH Motorcycle Ride, New York Mills, MN

2009-06-10T14:28:00.002-05:00

I can't forget to put a mention in for the Ronald McDonald House Motorcycle Ride this weekend starting in New York Mills... I got the opportunity to photograph there a couple years ago and let's just say... You have to see it to believe it... Bikes. EVERYWHERE. People from all walks of life. Some hard core bikers, others... weekend riders. All gathering for the same cause. It's really an awesome sight to see (and hear, because I like the thunder...) LOL!
Check out their WEBSITE for more information about how you too, can donate toward an awesome charity, drop off your pop tops, AND of course win a brand spankin' new 2009 Harley Davidson FLHRC Road King Classic...

studio 60 & Head Quarters on Main went together and donated a framed and matted print to auction off at the pre-ride party 2 yrs ago... We were happy! It auctioned for more than $400! All proceeds going towards Ronald McDonald House! (it's the motorcycle pic on the right, here)

So get your leather on and make sure to get to Mills this weekend! Don't forget about all the EVENING FESTIVITIES ALSO! Some great bands, plenty to eat and drink and camping in the cool spring air.........

L.I.F.E

2009-06-08T12:08:00.003-05:00

...is what happens when you make other plans.

Wow, isn't that the truth. I'm sitting here doing the 'light' work, checking/replying back to email checking my shipment dates, etc... while waiting for Lilly to FINALLY fall asleep for that nap she hasn't taken yet... In my effort to be a stay at home mom and to also run a business where I have paying clients, I rely on her napping to get a little work done during the day. Sometimes there are 148 different things I need to choose from that I should be doing in those precious 2 hours that I might get... Cleaning, meals, laundry, clients, editing, lawn mowing, time spent with Faith or my husband, ordering, learning, organizing... you name it. I love photography. I thank God every day for the people who have helped me grow and for the things I've learned. So thank you for listening as I really wanted to get that off my chest and let it go... It's 1:00 and I finally get to start on things for 'me'... :) Wish me luck! Here are 2 of the reasons that work can wait... and I love them both.

L.O.V.E

2009-06-01T12:40:00.007-05:00

.... is exactly what momma and daddy poured out towards their precious little princess... It's always amazing to see that in someones eyes... I'm so excited to watch the little Miss grow up as she is a new addition to the Baby Portrait Plan... Here are a few sneaks from her visit...Safe in daddy's hands....

{MINI Moments}

2009-05-27T09:39:00.006-05:00

Just in time for Father's Day... What a great little surprise for hubby! Not quite as sinfully delicious as a full out Sexy Moments {Boudoir} Session, but at least he could put these on his desk, or actually whip out the wallet, show a picture and say... THIS is my wife!!

This little bit of goodness is only available until June 8th, so give me a shout. MINI Session with a 5x7 framed and matted image from our custom frame line, and 8 wallets.

Adam & Nikki (the WEDDING)

2009-05-22T12:53:00.010-05:00

So it was a little chillier than we had anticipated on their wedding day... But I guess, it's Minnesota, what do you do?!?! :) Lots of laughs and tons of fun, these guys had a beautiful day! Here's a sneak...

Another Graduate!

2009-05-21T17:50:00.008-05:00

It's always kinda sad when your baby turns one. They aren't really a baby anymore as they venture on to toddlerhood... Being more independent, starting to talk, or babble anyway... and then there is the case of forever ON THE MOVE. This little man is quick! and those big blue eyes just make you melt! Here is a sneak of his '1 year' session from the Baby Portrait Plan...

fa . mi . ly

2009-05-18T10:31:00.006-05:00

Here's a sneak at a recent family session.... I love me some momma's who can coordinate their clan... YAY!

And don't forget!!!! FAMILY SESSIONS booked (and of course COMPLETED) May through August are entered for a chance to win a night away (with or without the kiddos!!!) at Thumper Pond Resort courtesy of studio 60.....

Just Horsin' Around...

2009-05-15T11:16:00.007-05:00

Ashley visited studio 60 for her Senior portraits and brought a friend along... ...this beautiful boy...
Ohhhhhhh how I wish I had more time, more money... more time.... oh. and a fence. :)

She's my kind of girl as we were traipsing across the yard for various scenery... She was up for anything... except when I asked her to sit on a roll of barbed wire... Yeah, I guess I can see that!

Here's a sneak from her session...And not just anyone can rock out the dilapidated wood shed... Love it!

Children. Especially when they're your own...

2009-05-14T12:27:00.005-05:00

I know that my kids hate it when I 'boss' them around while trying to take a few snaps of them. I know that I get the scowl and the eye rolling every time I say... 'Just ONE more!!!' I know no matter how hard I try to get them to do something I wouldn't subject a paying client to... I just need to chill out and get them being them. Point taken. Here's a few of Faith from yesterday while I was out in the wicked weird Thunderstorm-on-both-sides-of-us-but-clear-in-our-yard kind of light.

Faith : Do I have to sit there???
Me : Uhm. Yes. Yes, you do...
So half way across the yard she yells.... MOM! Take a picture of me like THIS!
Ok. That's Faith.

Some Ideas for Dad...

2009-05-12T17:21:00.004-05:00

...And this is so not a gift from the kids.... Hey you ladies... why not surprise your hubby with some great headshots for Fathers Day!??! I was hoping to have time to do some Sexy Moment Sessions before then, but alas... wouldn't have the albums in time... This made me think that although the Sexy Moments are hot, hot, HOT!! let's give him a little something that he can actually carry around in his wallet and show off! :)

Let's get our glam on (for those of you who know me.... I'm just a pretend princess and SOOO not glamorous!!)Get your hair done... Get your makeup on...
Come see me and I'll hook you up for a sweet little session.

$79 : Includes a 5x7 Matted & Framed
Desk Print of your fave image + 8 Wallets
~ Just mention the Father's Day Frame special when booking your appointment

Or, if you are considering doing the Sexy Moments... the cost is $199 and you receive a 5x5 album with 20 images from your session for free... Upgrades to a larger album are always available.
WHICH by the way aren't guaranteed to be here for Father's Day, which is June 21st...