Call for "Ignore the State of the Dress" Shoot

Well, 'Trash the Dress' is a little harsh; I've seen ones with dresses on fire. I don't think we'd be taking fire to anyone. Although Joel is an Eagle Scout, not sure he got his 'Putting Out a Bride on Fire' badge. But I bet if there was one, it would be a sweet graphic.

While the weather is still gorgeous, or maybe when it's sloppy snow time, we'd like to offer Trash the Dress sessions. Inquire for rates; past brides, this includes you! We're up for running around town, crawling around in junk yards or flea markets. Where ever you'd like to tromp around in your dress. We'll brainstorm and come up with a cool location and something fun that fits in your comfort level. This is an opportunity to do more choreographed shots that aren't usually our normal wedding day documentation style. (Groom/Husband welcomed to be included!) Shoot us an email if you'd like to discuss!

To check out what other photogs have done: www.trashthedress.com

Slightly to the Left of Photojournalism

Normally, our included editing is very minimal, involving color correction and black and white conversions. We keep it fairly simple so that it's as true to the moment as possible. However, this doesn't mean it's not fun to play and enhance images every so often. With our new packages we're offering processing similar to this for those that would like to see something a bit more 'detached' from the original image, yet retain it's narrative feel.

KayAnna (Our First 'Destination' Sr. Pics!)

We were in Oregon last week visiting family, and the beautiful beach. (A separate entry to come on that.) Hence, all the posts as it's been a busy week trying to get caught up.

Okay, so an untouched subject here are senior pictures. *dun, dun, duuuunnn* Personally, I think of 80's shots of people standing in front of a brick wall wearing jean jackets.

In an effort to avoid their pictures becoming outdated or cookie cutter, we strive to bring something more out of them than just posing. One where they can look back at the pictures in 10, 20 years and still see part of who they were at that time. Just themselves at a chapter in their life and enjoying not having to 'know' who they are yet. (I am still enjoying that in my own life!)

Amanda, from Amanda + Brian, has an aunt in Portland who contacted me about Senior Pictures of her daughter, KayAnna, while we were in town. (Talk about coincidence!) We met them at IKEA, which we've been to like four times in the last two months, and then drove about and basically pulled over whenever we saw something cool. Here are a few shots I know they've been excited to see!

River Market Artfest

Seems I've got some catching up to do on the design end of things, as far as posting goes. Last month, we had the opportunity of working with Friends of the River Market here in Kansas City. I got to design their poster for the artfest this year and enjoyed every minute of it. Sadly, I haven't worked on posters in awhile, so it was a welcomed change of format for me. The bold color combinations were exciting to work with and I loved how they all turned out. Thanks for allowing me to be a part of the Fifth Annual Artfest!

Danielle + Dan

(Here is also a shot of the invitation I designed for them. This was really a fun one with my beloved floral things and texture. Notice the postmark; I edited it to make it their date.)

We keep working with these amazing couples. When we first tell people we photograph weddings, some gasp, turn white, and obviously have flash backs to You Tube videos and TV shows of 'Bridezillas.' Soon they get to, "I bet you have your fair share of horror stories."

Then it's our turn to gasp and turn white as all we have are shining reviews of glorious, emotion-filled frolics with couples; our cameras in hand. (Although cheesy sounding and needs to be visualized in slow motion, is not far off from how we feel about all of our brides and grooms.)

In continuing awesome couple fashion, Danielle and Dan were our kind of love. Although it stormed well into their day, soon after their vows, the sunlight flowed. I can't believe how much they laughed together! The day flew by for us and we feel quite honored to have shared it with them.

P.S. The flowers were beautiful. So many rich fall colors and cool little berries, puffs and blooms just begging to be fondled. Although I've probably mentioned it before, and know I will again, Bridget has a brilliant design sense that makes my eyes giggle. I both respect and envy her. Onto the pics!

Amanda + Brian

Usually, couples find us through advertising or, our favorite, by word of mouth and referrals. In this story, we met Amanda at our local Kinko's. I was having a proofbook bound (back before we did the linen ones) and getting ready to ship when our cover caught her eye. When she and Brian got engaged, she dusted off the business card I'd given her and contacted us. (And how glad we are she did!)

Their ceremony was at the beautiful chapel in Powell Gardens; the morning light in there was so lovely. It seems I've been getting all misty-eyed more than I used to at weddings. I think the longer it's been since our wedding, the more moving it is to be reminded of that 'first dance' feeling. (Or maybe...it was allergies? ;-) Their first dance was like they were the only people in the room. There was no announcement or spotlights, everyone was talking and having brunch, and they just started dancing to the music of dj ipod.