Category: Personal

On July 12, 2013 we welcomed our beautiful BABY GIRL into the world!!! We didn’t know what we were having, so when little Miss Gracie came out, I was over the moon!! There will be lots of cute outfits, bows and hairpieces in our future :)

Here are a few photos taken by either myself or my friends Leslie & Melanie!! So thankful for these priceless pictures of our sweetness! You can expect to see more of Grace as she gets older. We love her to pieces!

Grace Elizabeth Greff        ~       8lbs 1oz, 20.25 inches

I will be back to work in early September. I am soaking up every minute with Gracie, but looking forward to seeing all of my sweet clients soon! Feel free to email me if you are interested in a session. September has 1 spot left, October has a few, so please contact me soon if you are looking for fresh portraits before the Holidays!! Nov, Dec & Jan are filling up as well. Taking in 4 sessions per week only. XOXO!

Well I am officially on Maternity leave! I am completely wrapped up with all shoots and editing until early September! I’m sorry I haven’t posted many personal entries lately, I can honestly say that my head has been so focused on preparing for baby, wrapping up work with my clients and building a house. I look forward to sharing more with you guys soon once the baby is here :) I am currently 38 weeks pregnant, so honestly it could be any day now. I am pretty sure baby is quite comfy in there, I’ll probably go until my due date or maybe a little over?

I wanted to share my Maternity photos with you all. My good friends Tim Pham and Corine Tran took these of us when I was 32 weeks. I will cherish these forever. I am so so grateful to have this special time documented. I rented some furniture to add a little something extra!

I am enjoying my Maternity leave – just relaxing, getting ready for baby and taking it one day at a time. I will return back to work in September and I will be shooting Tuesday/Thursday sessions at 10am and 4pm. I am booking up quickly, so please shoot me an email if you know you are interested in a session :) Of course, I will still be keeping up with my email while on Maternity leave.

So here is yours truly with a baby bump….

Well I guess it’s finally time I told the blog world our wonderful news. My husband Randy and I are having our first little one this coming July. I am 13 weeks pregnant :) If you follow my facebook page, I made an announcement on there around Christmas time… but I figured I would post something here, too. I haven’t blogged here in a couple of weeks because I gave myself some time off over the Holidays to enjoy being with family and friends. I plan to do this every year. Next December I am going to try and do a mini session so I can fit in more clients.

So here are some prego announcement photos that our great friends Beebe & Corine Tran took of us a few weeks back. We are so thankful for these :) We used some on our Christmas card this year! Well I just wanted to share our news and let you know that I’ll resume soon with client images and postings ASAP. I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and New Year!

Just wanted to say hello and tell you thank you for visiting my blog! I’ve been having some wonderful sessions lately and really looking forward to my upcoming shoots over the next 2 weeks. I’m trying my hardest to deliver sessions within a weeks time. I will have EVERYONE finished up with before Christmas. I have a little over 10 sessions to photograph until I will be taking off for two weeks. I haven’t given myself 2 weeks off from shooting since I got married over 2.5 years ago. Sometimes you just need to say no and give yourself time to enjoy the Holidays. Last year, I didn’t get to enjoy them as much as I wanted – I was too busy working. This year, I turned over a new leaf to remember to work hard, but also take time for myself. Thank you to everyone who booked early, I appreciate you! And my sincerest apologies for being unavailable for all the people who’ve inquired over the past few weeks. I am now booking for late January, I have a few spots left. Feb-June have scattered dates open too. Don’t put it off, if you are thinking about a shoot… please book early :) Starting in 2013, I’m standing firm to only booking 3 to 4 sessions per week. Once they are full, you can either book for a later date or be placed on waiting list for that particular month.

I hope all my clients and blog followers know how thankful I am for you! It’s been a wild ride these past 5 years as a photography business owner. I would be nowhere without my clients! THANK YOU! Remember to take time this Holiday season to spend time with your loved ones. Bake cookies, make a few homemade and crafty gifts, get together with friends, laugh and celebrate the passing of another blessed year. Decorate your tree, turn up the Christmas music and just enjoy it! Sometimes Randy will walk in a room and I’m like in my own world. Dancing and acting crazy with the dogs… radio blaring and dancing around. He just stands there and laughs. After long days.. I need the comic relief :)  I thank God everyday for giving me this life. I’ve been having a few of those…. “everything happens for a reason” days lately. You know when you get your hopes up about something and then it’s like POOF…. GONE! Nevermind. At the end of the day I realize it’s all in God’s plan and timing. He will show us exactly where he wants us to be, we just have to be patient. I am a firm believer in that :)

I can’t wait for my upcoming shoots, there will be lots more to share here on the blog coming up! Merry Christmas to everyone! I hope Randy and I can get a photo taken soon to make a Christmas card.. I’ll be sure to share it here!

I had the honor of photographing the birth of my best friends baby last week. I’ve known Dana and Tim for over 10 years and they have been wonderful friends to my husband, Randy and I. They welcomed their first little baby into the world and it was such a beautiful day! I loved getting to document this for them. It was a very emotional day, I am so happy they allowed me to be there.

I took over 300 photos, but here are just a few….

I’ve blogged Monday-Friday for as long as I can remember! This past week has been a bit of a whirlwind so excuse my absence. My best friend gave birth to a beautiful baby boy named Noah Jackson! It was amazing experiencing all this over the past few days with her. Tons of photos have been snapped! Sometimes its nice to slow down a bit and enjoy the beauty going on around me. Thank you to all my clients who’ve been patient with pictures…. it’s been a really busy past two weeks of photographing portrait sessions. I’ll finally get back to editing, blogging and releasing online galleries today. These next couple of months are going to be fun with the Holidays, my Birthday and we have a ton of Showers & Weddings coming up for friends. Looking forward to seeing all my clients for their Nov/Dec sessions :) Just know that I’m working as fast as possible to get things back to you all in a timely manor. Thanks again for all the love and support.. more pics coming soon!

It’s probably been over year that I’ve taken a full week off from blogging – maybe even longer. Those of you who follow my work are most likely wondering where I’ve been! Well here in New Orleans, we’ve had a bit of a pause in our usual routine. Hurricane Issac has been the only thing on our minds this past week. Monday I photographed a twins newborn shoot in the morning and afterwards went straight to stock up on the necessities: food, water, gas, candles, etc.  Tuesday morning was spend picking up the yard, loading my children’s portrait chairs into the garage and then unloading my car from all the newborn props. Tuesday was a waiting game, the wind and rain began to pick up in the afternoon. Tuesday night we lost power – slept at home all night with no power and AC. I say slept… it was soo hot! Woke up Wednesday morning to a flooded street, some trees down, etc. We were kind of back and forth between my in-laws house and my parents house. It’s truly been a joy to spend time with our families over this past week. As terrible and destructive as storms can be, I’m grateful for the break. Finally back at home now with power and working air. Our A/C also went out due to the storm, thankful that the parts were changed out yesterday and we have cool air again :)

Bummed that I had to reschedule 4 out of 5 of my sessions last week :( Tomorrow I’ll get back to emails and editing, then probably blogging again on Tuesday. Looking forward to my upcoming sessions. A big thank you to my clients for being patient while we get back to normal here in NOLA! I know there are soo many of you still left without power.

Today I enjoyed a lovely day with my friends at a Bridal Shower for my friend Noelle. We were not letting Issac ruin out plans! Happy to be in her upcoming Wedding this December. We had lots of fun planning for her shower, it turned out so cute! Next up, is my friend Dana’s Baby Shower which is this coming Saturday.

I can’t tell you all how much I am enjoying my weekends again with family and friends. I love spending time with them, planning upcoming parties, going to dinner and lunch, cooking, shopping, dreaming and just having more me time. I feel like I’m able to be a better wife, friend and daughter now. Who wants to go through life with their attention being focused on 8,000 different things. That’s how I felt when I was working all week and just about every weekend. Simplicity is freeing. It’s a nice feeling when you don’t have to worry anymore about missing out on things. Life is short… cherish it :) I read something the other day that really hit home…. “Follow your dreams, not someone else’s.” For so long I always felt like I needed to be a certain type of photographer to be “successful” – you really do find so much happiness when you just live your own life and stop feeling like you need to be just like someone else. I am in a good place in my life – happy with my career and thankful for the opportunities I am given. Photographing children brings me so much joy. It takes all different kinds of people to make the world go around. If you are smart  – thank God for that. If you cook well – thank God. If you are a good speaker – give thanks. We all have our own special things that make us who we are. Been thinking about starting a personal blog lately to separate my life from my business. I would love to hear some feedback – do readers like a mix of myself along with my photography? Do you enjoy getting to know me as a person behind the photos? Do you ever relate? Should I separate the two … does it really matter? I have so many personal journals that I keep because I truly love writing when I have the time. Some stuff I want to share but don’t know if it’s the right place. However, personally as a blogger – I love reading about other people’s lives through their posts.

As crazy as the past week has been, I feel refreshed. It’s nice when you can give yourself time to collect your thoughts. Mother Nature gave us a little break in our normal routine last week. Thank you Jesus for keeping us safe.

I haven’t done my hair or worn makeup in a week. It was actually nice to get presentable today, haha! This past week, we’ve laughed, shed a few tears, grew closer with family, drank wine, cooked, cooked more, baked, watched the rain, listened to the wind, dressed up the dog, picked up leaves and broken tree limbs, watched movies, snuggled our puppies, laughed some more until we couldn’t breathe, and loved….. but most importantly made memories! Here just a couple of iphone photos from the past week.

Just wanted to say thank you to all of the people who check in to see what’s new on the blog. I keep saying one day I’m not going to work so much so that I’ll have the time to post more personal things about my life, my family, etc. I always put client editing first before posting anything about ME! I just can’t seem to find the time. As most of you can tell, the blog has been nothing but kids, family, maternity, and engagement pictures popping up! Where have the Weddings been? I photographed my last Wedding about 3 months back. About a year ago I realized that it was time for me to get my weekends back. It took me over a year to work through all my contracts. After 5 years of being a Wedding photographer, I realized it was time to start spending time with my loved ones and giving myself a break. You only live once! I’m not saying that I’ll never go back to shooting Weddings, but right now my heart is leading me in another direction. I get so much enjoyment from photographing portrait sessions and working Monday-Friday. As I’m sure most of my clients can attest….. getting to spend time with them is like spending time with an old friend. These days I’m more relaxed, more easy going and truly enjoy each day to the fullest. I really am addicted to my career. I am so thankful for all the people that call and email looking for me to be their photographer. Although some days I can get overwhelmed, when I stop and smell the roses….. these people have molded me into who I’ve become today.

So here I sit, after a long, tiring day and I’m content. I am living out my dream and I thank God for giving me this life. I am blessed to have such a wonderful family and support system. My friends, my husband, my inlaws… I am lucky. I can’t wait until the day I’ll be photographing my own children. What will they look like? How will life change? There are so many questions that run through my mind, but I am happy to be where I am now. It’s funny how I think back on certain times in my life and I can remember what I was praying about during that time frame…. Guidance, Family, Business, Marriage, Strength, etc…!

It’s so easy to get caught up in the midst of day in and day out routine. I’m really looking forward to our beach vacation with friends next month! I know many of you feel the same way about needing a break. Sometimes I just go sit outside and let the sun hit my face. I hear the birds chirp and I just soak it all in. That’s how I feel at the beach…. just calm and collected.

So these are my thoughts… August 7th, 2012. Where has the time gone? I’m sad that 2012 is vanishing so quickly!! Until next time… here’s a couple of photos of life lately over the past few months ;)

For Sale :

I am slowly making the switch over to Nikon. I’ve sold off a good bit of my gear already, but here is what I have left :) I have bags and boxes for everything listed below. All of this is in great condition! I know there are some local photogs that follow my blog, so please email me if you’d like to buy anything: jenamatophoto@gmail.com

Canon 5D … $600 – SOLD!!

Canon 5D Markii Extra Battery … $25 – SOLD!!

2- Canon 5D Extra Battery … $25 –  BOTH SOLD!!

Canon BG – E6 Battery Grip for 5D Markii … $100 – SOLD!!

Canon BG – E4 Battery Grip for 5D … $100 – SOLD!!

Canon CP – E4 Compact Battery Pack (like brand new) … $100

2- Canon 580ex ii Flash (like brand new) … $300 each – BOTH SOLD!!

Canon 50mm f/1.2 Lens (my baby!) … $1000

Canon 24-105 f/4.0 Lens … $800

Canon 100mm f/2.8 Macro Lens (like brand new) … $400 – SOLD!!

Canon 15mm f/2.8 Fisheye … $400 – SOLD!!

This past weekend my friends Tim & Dana had a ‘Gender Reveal’ Party! They are expecting a little BOY in November! This has got to be one of the most exciting things ever, I think I was as nervous as them before cutting the cake! For those of you who don’t know how this works. Dana had her ultrasound done on Friday, without looking at the gender photo – she took that straight to the bakery. The bakery made her a cake filled with BLUE icing. Tim & Dana cut the cake to find out that they were going to have a little boy! You may remember their Bahamas Wedding back in 2010? Anyway, just wanted to share a few photos from the day! We had such a great time with our friends :)

6.12.10! I can’t believe it’s been 2 years since I married my best friend. It seems like yesterday. Thank you God for blessing me with Randy, I am forever grateful to you. We took this photo last year for our 1 year shoot ;)

I’ve enjoyed the nice little break I gave myself this past week. Although, I edited and blogged every day, it’s good to put down the camera every once and in while. I cleaned house, did laundry, lunched with friends, read for hours, went for a few runs and just enjoyed having more time in my day. For so long all I knew how to do was rush rush rush to make sure I got everything done. Slowly, I’m learning to let go of the fast paced lifestyle. I’ve truly enjoyed having some weekend time off lately, too. Life is good!

It’s been a while, huh? :) A lot has been going on lately and I feel like I’ve been going a mile a minute for quite some time now. This weekend I really enjoyed spending quality time with my husband, my family and inlaws. I can’t wait for my upcoming road trip next weekend with my best friends. All the girls are headed to see our friend Amy who lives in Alabama. It should be pretty entertaining – this is our High School group that has been friends for about 14 years! Never a dull moment, that’s for sure!

It’s hard to believe that Randy and I will be married for two years next month, where has the time gone? All I prayed for when we got married was that God would lead me in the right direction with my business – I wanted to dive in full force. And that’s exactly what happened. I shot 5-7 portrait sessions a week and a Wedding every other weekend. It was probably sometime late last year when I realized something had to give. I couldn’t keep up this fast paced life anymore. I am being completely open and honest here… I missed my loved ones. And for what? To feel like a hamster on a circular wheel? Some extra money in my savings account? We have everything we need and you surely can’t take it with you! I will continue to work hard, but not at the expense of my happiness. If any of you have followed my blog for a while – you’ve witnessed first hand the amount of work I was taking in. I run this business 100% on my own – from emails, to wedding appointments, photographing all portrait sessions, editing every single wedding and session, burning CD’s, making client packages, creating online galleries, blogging my favorites from everything I photograph, designing Wedding albums, all album ordering, all mailings, photo orders, website updating, hosting, buying business supplies- the list could go on for miles I feel like. I’m not trying to say how great I am, I just want people to know how hard it is sometimes. There are lots of new-by photographers out there today that only see the glitz and glam. This is a business that requires attention just about 7 days a week. I also don’t go run off to the mall all the time, I come back to my office after every single session and work a 9-5. Most of the time it’s late hours in the evening, too! Since we’ve been married my business has been my baby. It’s like having a child. I tell God thank you every single day for blessing me with this career. I am not complaining because I know this is what I was born to do. Sometimes it just takes time to figure out what works best for you. Over the past 5 years in business – I’ve learned so much about myself.

I thought back on what I had prayed for…. a business that would take off. Well it did and then I realized how greedy it can made me sometimes. When I felt like I needed to take in every little inquiry that came through my email, it surely began to catch up with me. Then I started praying for clarity and for guidance on how to change the things that weren’t making me happy anymore. I wanted to live a life that revolved around love, carrying for people and making the most out of everyday. I didn’t want to come up for air in 10 years and realize I missed the best days of my life. So I slowly started cutting back. Taking in less and less Weddings, saying no to Portrait sessions that were going to put too much stress on my already booked up week. And then it all seemed clear. My stress began to diminish and my calendar didn’t look like a bomb went off anymore.

Thank you God for continuing to bring people into my life to photograph, thank you clients for allowing me to live out my dream. You guys bring me so much happiness :) So I just wanted to fill you all in on my schedule and how things are changing. Starting in June, I will only be booking 4 sessions per week. I will take in 1 extra last minute session per week if my schedule allows for it and I am caught up with work. I am taking a break from booking Weddings to focus on my portrait sessions for a while and enjoy some weekend time. Thank you to all of my past couples who have trusted me with your Weddings. Your special day is forever in my heart –  I am honored to have been able to live and celebrate that moment with you. Now lot’s of my past brides are starting families – so it’s exciting to hear from them again!!

I am looking forward to this summer. More time with my loved ones makes me want to cry because I am so happy. I plan on exercising more, eating healthier, cooking dinner, baking, yoga and just plain out enjoying life. I hope you all will continue to follow my journey. I am much more than a photographer – I can’t wait to have the time to share more of my life with you all over the upcoming months. I hope there’s no hard feelings with the decisions I’m making with my business, this is just where I am in my life right now. I just need a little time for me. Don’t we all sometimes? Just to step back and soak in this beautiful life? God Bless and thanks for continuing to check in to see what’s new. You’ll be hearing more from me soon!

If any of you are feeling stressed out and the days all run into each other. Take a step back and pray about it. Ask God for help and begin to make moves in creating a life you truly want for yourself. One that revolves around love, happiness and relationships. When I slow down is when I notice all the beautiful things I was missing out on before. The little moments that sneak up on you and make you realize how good you have it. That’s God talking to ya ;) I have been trying to find the words to write this blog post for months now… it wasn’t until I went to the beach for 5 days last week that I had some time for reflection. To clear my head and make sense of everything. If any of you have free time during the day, start listening to Joyce Meyer Ministry Broadcasts. Joyce is so funny, tells it like it is and really knows how to put things into perspective! Much love to you all!

If you are thinking about booking a session, here is an update on my availability. I am only booking 4 sessions per week. I know there’s a few people who inquired about sessions, but still haven’t gotten back to me. I am unable to reserve your date if you haven’t confirmed yet. Also, if you are interested in newborn sessions – most Mom’s reserve a space asap to insure they get a session, I am no longer accepting last minute newborn shoots.

CLICK HERE to view all updated pricing and portrait session information.

June – 2 spots left

July – 2 spots left

August – 3 spots left

September – 5 spots left

October – 1 spot left

November – booked

December – 5 spots left

**If you are contracted into my ‘Grow With Me’ plan, please don’t panic – I already have your session space reserved on my calendar. **

I am so fortunate to have such wonderful Mom’s in my life. I only hope to one day be HALF the Mom that my Mom and Mother-in-law have been! Even though I don’t say it enough, they mean so much to me! I am truly blessed and I thank God everyday for giving me this life. Sometimes I wonder how I got so lucky?

This past Thursday, I gathered my 3 Brothers, my Husband Randy, my sister-in-law Jen, and my brother-in-law Dustin! We headed to City Park at 7pm for some family portraits for our Mama’s! My grandmother took us all out to dinner afterwards, which was such a treat!! Although none of of us have children yet, it’s never too late to do something special like this.

Many of you might wonder why people spend so much time, effort and money on pictures. THEY ARE PRICELESS!!! I believe it’s one of the best gifts that you can give. I loved seeing their reactions, it’s the best feeling in the world! I hope one day that my photography allows you to feel this way. Loved, appreciated and celebrated!! Life is short – embrace it!

My Mom said this afternoon….. “JEN! I look at your pictures every day! Finally a shoot of my own children!!” Then…..I melted….

Please enjoy these pictures of my family! For this session, we played PASS THE CAMERA! I set all the camera settings and we just took turns photographing each other :)

Remember this post? Latest news on my cousin Courtney: I am happy to report that the prayers are working as I send out the best update yet.  Courtney’s recovery has been nothing short of miraculous to this point.  Courtney is coming home Wednesday.  She is able to walk with a cane, and can climb stairs with the help of a banister. Obviously there is still much work to be done, particularly in her leg, but she has good mobility in her upper extremities.  She will return to outpatient rehab for a couple hours a day.  Currently her rehab focuses on helping her get up off the floor as she cares for Eden. (her youngest of 4 children)

As I continue to pray for my cousin Courtney who lives in Sante Fe, NM, I am reminded of how important it is to have faith. Every single Sunday I attend mass because it’s truly what helps me get through my week. A fellow photographer said the other day…. “My marketing plan: obey God and He will always provide!” Isn’t that the TRUTH? I wanted to jump for joy when I read that. I’ve thought that very same thing a million times over in my head, but was never able to put it into words. It applies to my life and my business. I haven’t advertised in a really long time…. which proves that God hears my prayers and gives me strength for my photography. He keeps me motivated to push forward. Happy clients = happy Jen!

Always remember that God hears you. I am a FIRM believer on God’s timing. Sometimes I can be so impatient with things in life – that is until I realize that I just need to wait my turn. You can’t have it all. I go to bed every night thanking God for the positive things in my life. I’m the first person to go to sleep when I have a REALLY long day of work ahead of me, but I’ve truly been soaking in my free time. Being responsible will always pay off, you just have to remember to have some fun, too :) It’s all about balance and learning to work hard and celebrate life. I’ve been enjoying the crawfish boils, nice weather, home cooked dinners at home with my hubby and time spent with family and friends. I realize in the future months as I decide to cut back on work… this will only lead to a new road ahead. Thank you to the clients who will continue to come back and keep their faith in me!!

In my free time lately, I’ve been listening to Joyce Meyer Ministries. She gives extremely motivating sermons just about every day on her website. When sitting at my desk editing, often times this is what I am listening to. Good, positive, encouraging thoughts! It’s amazing what our minds are capable of soaking in…

I sit here tonight and I am thankful for this life God has given me. I am reminded sometimes that life is short and we truly need to soak in what we have around us. So today on my way home from my Engagement session at almost 6pm – I stopped at the grocery. I bought filets, veggies, sweet potato fries, and a bottle of wine. I came home, sat at the island in my kitchen while sipping on my glass of pinot, and talked with my husband about life. About how it passes us by too quickly and that I wish I had more time to enjoy whats around me.

I am so in love with my job that it’s often VERY hard for me to tell people no. When I do, I feel guilty.  At some point, I will need to make a change and that change is coming this summer. My goal is to only take in 3 shoots per week. To be completely honest  – that probably won’t happen for a while considering all the ‘Grow With Me’ children I have booked for 2012. I will only be taking 1-2 more GWM babies this year. I just can’t fit anymore in my schedule. You do the math… 20+ GWM kids that will shoot 5 sessions per year. I want to make sure I keep spots available for Engagement and Family sessions as well.

I am so glad that God put me on this Earth for a reason. Although my impact on people’s lives may be small – I still feel honored to at least make someone happy a few times a week. My clients are so wonderful to me which is the reason I stay addicted to my job, Photography. The sweet emails and hand written notes in the mail, the kind gestures and referrals to their friends is what keeps a smile on my face. How could you not want to stay in this very moment forever?

Tonight I came home from my Engagement session and read this email….. which honestly put things into perspective.

I took this studio photo of Coco, her husband and 4 precious babies back in 2008!

Here’s a photo from the Orpheus Ball we went to last night :) We had a blast with all of our friends! Best way to watch a parade!! The Mardi Gras Balls are the way to go! Back to business tomorrow with emails, editing and blogposts!!

I have so much to reflect on tonight as I sit here and realize the importance of a brand new year. A fresh start always feels good, doesn’t it? My favorite number is 12, its the date I was married back in June of 2010. So I’m certain that 2012 has some special things in store!! Twenty Twelve! It has a nice ring to it. Last year I really learned a lot about myself. Anything is possible if you just stay focused. Sometimes working alot gets hard, but the rewards can be so sweet. I constantly remind myself that nothing comes easy! If you want to succeed, then sometimes sacrifices need to be made. After I got married, I remember saying how much I wanted to dive into my career. I did that and accepted all I had hoped and prayed for in 2011. I wanted to see what I was made of, I learned my strengths, my weaknesses, and everything in between. This past year was the busiest of my life. I photographed 26 Weddings and nearly 200 portrait sessions. There are days where I wanted to crawl under a rock and there were days where I felt like my heart was going to beat out of chest I was so excited, proud and happy.

I honestly think you have to go through certain life experiences to see what you are made of and what you really want in life. What makes me feel alive and what are the things that make me wish I had done things differently? I have hundreds of blogposts from 2011 that can put a smile on my face at any given moment. I have no regrets from 2011, I’d rather call them experiences that have helped mold me. As I sit here and reflect on what I want for myself in 2012 and the years ahead… I see the world a bit differently. Looking forward to slowing down and being able share more of myself. I want to spend more time with my loved ones in 2012. This means giving up some control and learning to listen to my heart. Sometimes you have to sit still long enough, then it’s loud and clear. I want to travel more, love more and take care of myself more. I want to FEEL. You ever just have the craving to FEEL life and experience it with every ounce of your being? Bliss, God’s Grace – whatever you want to call it! I find this in the simplest of moments. Being kind to strangers, laughing til I cry with my girlfriends, the way my husband looks at me sometimes, when my dogs are happy I’m home and when clients tell me they have tears in their eyes after viewing their photos. These are just a few examples of how I feel this feeling. There are days where I need to remind myself that I am more than just a photographer. Over the next several months I’m really going to try and concentrate on the simple things in life. I hope to share some of my experiences here with you. I have struggles just like many of you out there.

I am so appreciative of the support of my clients over the past year, the relationships I’ve made are priceless. Thank you to the clients who send sweet words after viewing your photos, who still follow the blog, who hire me as their Wedding photographer then again as their baby photographer, for the trust you have in me, the list goes on and on. You all hold a special place in my heart. I am so happy to have you all in my life. You are the main reason why I can still call myself a photographer after almost 5 years of business. Without you all, there would be no business. As each new year approaches, I still wonder how things will go and if people will continue to hire me. I sure hope so. If not, “God will provide in my time of need.” I feel like I say that to myself ALOT. It usually helps vanish any kind of fear of the unknown. No matter what, he will take care of me. There is a reason I go to mass every Sunday, I truly believe its gives me my strength for the week. Being human, I have doubts. I realize this could all be taken away tomorrow. I don’t have a boss that I clock into everyday. I am self-employed. As a self-employed person, the only logical thing to do was make God my boss. He’s where I find comfort and direction when I’m not sure what to do!

Just wanted to say THANK YOU to each one of you. My clients, my blog readers, my family and friends. I will continue to grow over the upcoming year and learn a little more about myself and about this beautiful thing called life. I will continue to go through ups and downs, but as long as I have God’s strength I can do anything. I wish you all a happy, healthy, memorable 2012! I look forward to sharing my journey who you all ;)

Just wanted to say thanks to all of you who check in regularly to see whats new! I can’t believe 2011 is almost over. I have my final two shoots of the year tomorrow and then I’ll enjoy a nice, relaxing New Years weekend with my family and friends. I counted the portrait sessions I photographed over the past 12 months and my jaw dropped. I honestly had no idea how many, I’m just on cruise control all year until I actually sit back and look at my calendar. I am so thankful to have all my clients support and also the support of my friends and family who spread the word about my photography business. Last year I started blogging everything I shot. Weddings, Rehearsals, Special Events, Portrait Sessions, some Personal photos, etc! It’s fun for me to look back on this past year and see my work here on web. Blogging in my last step when editing someones session. My work is not complete until that’s done :) That’s why when my website was giving me trouble last month, I almost had a heart attack. Needless to say, I was a bit lost!

I am currently booked solid for the month of January, I have a couple more spots for February, and mostly booking for March and afterward. My “Grow With Me” kids always get top priority with scheduling, so that’s the great thing about signing up. Their availability is guaranteed. If you are a past client who didn’t sign up for GWM, but still would like 6 month or 1 year photos, please be in touch at least 2 months in advance to book your date.

Also, just a heads up… after 2 years of having the same portrait pricing, my regular sessions are now $350. I changed this about 3 months ago for a few reasons. With the cost and time of travel, the hour long shoot, all editing, photo CD of high-resolution photos, and blogposts of the session – I had numerous people tell me it was time to raise before I wore myself out. I spend between 5-8 hours on each session. I am slowly learning to say no and to only take in what I can handle. I hope 2012 brings lots of new and old faces to photograph. I am truly blessed to call this my job. I work hard because I enjoy making people happy. I hope that my dedication, patience, and consistency shines through here on the blog. Without you all – there wouldn’t be anything to share. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

I hope all of you had a wonderful Christmas, I really enjoyed spending time with my loved ones. I took some time out to make a couple of small appetizers and desserts from pinterest! I can’t wait to get back to working out and eating healthy. The Holidays are filled with splurging left and right. One last weekend to make it all count and then back to focusing on being healthy :)

Much love to you all! Here’s a few things I made last week…..

Greek Appetizer Stacks! (Feta, Cucumber, Kalamata olive Olives, Grape Tomatoes)

http://pinterest.com/pin/123215739774671502/

Mini Bacon and Egg Desserts! :) How CUTE are these?!

http://pinterest.com/pin/123215739774659779/

Festive Chocolate Dipped Pretzel Rods!

http://pinterest.com/pin/123215739774613458/

Most of us run around everyday trying to make sure we get everything done on our to-do list. Wearing ourselves thin, not remembering to take a step back. That is until you get a wake up call. Whether it be hearing about a sick friend, someone getting into an accident or just a story that reminds you to be thankful for life. Some people may not understand why I chose to start cutting back next year and honestly, I’m okay with that. My faith is what leads me to make certain moves in life. I’ve learned to wait for God’s presence before making life changing decisions. If you pray hard enough and focus, you will hear your answers. There are times in life when you just need to slow down. I’m learning how to do this and trying to reprogram my brain. I spoke of all this a few days ago when I talked about needed some balance in my life. It’s funny the people who texted me, called or emailed just to say hello or check on me after reading my blog. I am fine and I so lucky to have people in my life that care so much about me. I’m just wearing myself out chasing my dreams. But honestly- isn’t that the best way? Things could be way worse.

I wanted to share a story with you guys that touched my heart. I debated talking about it in yesterdays post, but I figured the more prayers the better. Do you remember the session I posted yesterday of The Trouard’s? Scroll down to the post beneath this if you missed it. Since Renee left me such a heartfelt blog comment, I figured it was okay to share their story. I received an email several weeks back from Renee asking for a photo shoot for her family. Her Dad had recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer. My heart was breaking for her when I first read the email. So, without a doubt in my mind- I made time for their session and we drove up to Bay St. Louis, MS last Saturday morning. It was my first Saturday off in 8 weeks from shooting all those Weddings. It didn’t matter. This family and their story mattered way more than having a day off. I photographed their session that morning and Renee’s father smiled the entire time. His whole family was together and he was happy. I was so incredibly honored to be there to document this special time. Here’s Renee’s comment she left on the blog after viewing her pictures.  I read this and had tears in my eyes.

Jen,

They came out AWESOME!  We can’t thank you enough.  I wanted to tell you that the timing was perfect.  On Sunday he began to run a very high fever and has been in the hospital all week.  He is doing much better now though.  He started losing his hair and his beard on Monday and is almost bald with no facial hair now.  It is crazy how fast it happened.  He was teasing telling me that he wanted me to take a picture and send it to you. He said you would really would have had to work some photoshop magic if he had looked like that on Saturday.

You know, when we are doubting and asking God to show his presence to us during our hardships, I believe he often reveals himself to us through certain people.  Just the fact that the photo shoot was possible, everyone was healthy, and you went out of your way to make yourself available, lets me know He is listening.  He is shinning through you!

Thank you for capturing such a special moment for our family.  You will never know what it means!
Renee

Thank you God for blessing us and allowing the shoot to happen on that particular day. Thank you for bringing The Trouard family into my life. For holding my hand and guiding me, for allowing me to feel your Grace. I will forever be thankful for the many gifts you have brought into my life. I will continue to live in your name, follow you and show my appreciation. I will be praying for this family and remembering how precious life can be. Hold your babies tight, tell your family and friends how much you love them and just be thankful to be alive. Lately I’ve really tried to work on being a more positive person, hoping in turn it will make a difference in my life and for those around me.

Be safe this weekend and remember how much God loves us. Sometimes other people are brought in your life so you can feel God’s presence. I will be praying for Mr. Trouard and his entire family. Please keep them in your thoughts as well. Hugs to you all!

Although it’s just a low-res iphone photo… I took this heading home from Bay St. Louis last Saturday. Sunsets remind me of God’s power and presence every single time!

Well, hello! :) It’s been a while since I’ve written anything personal here on the blog. I’m not going to lie, I’ve been really busy over the past few months. As you can tell from all the recent posts. Alot of time, I meet myself coming and going. There are days were I want it all… I want a successful business, time with family, friends and husband, time for crafty stuff, time to shop, time to workout, time to relax, etc… It’s really hard to find balance when you own your own business though because there’s always something that needs to get done. Always. However, something has to give.

Being the control freak that I am, things need to be done on certain days in order for me to move on to the next thing, or take in more work, or to have time to treat myself to that manicure, etc. I’ve been ignoring my needs and over doing it. I just finished up the busiest 2 months I’ve ever had, I’ve shot a Wedding the past 8 weekends and have had about 3-6 shoots per week. Still somehow finding the time to get Portrait clients images back within 1 week and Wedding clients images back within 2 weeks. To be completely honest, somewhere in the middle of all that work – I had a mini breakdown. It was alot of pressure and I just wasn’t making enough time for myself. I got out some tears and let out my frustrations, fears and emotions all on Randys shoulder one night. I am human and sometimes yes, I hit a breaking point. Which is why some things needed to change. For me. For my marriage. For just plain out living life and feeling normal. I can’t do everything. Sometimes it takes things happening to put whats going on around me into perspective.

I decided to turn some things around when I started feeling blah. I started bootcamp again after taking a few months off. I began going to the morning classes and pushing my shoots back a little later in the day instead of starting so early. I wake up and go there 3 times a week and I am starting to feel good again! I also starting buying more organic foods and really trying to focus on being a healthier person. I’m down about 6 pounds and convinced it’s been a combination of eating breakfast every morning, followed by my vitamins, a bottle of water and then heading to sweat it out at Bootcamp. Small meals throughout the day, portion control and only cheating every now and then. I started keeping a private journal which has helped alot too with just getting it all out of my brain. I also signed up at Massage Envy and really going to try and get a massage twice a month. Between carrying around heavy equipment and camera bags combined with 40+ hours of editing at a desk per week… my back and shoulders are filled with knots. Little things along the way and changes in my routine will help me find balance again.

I am so in love with my job, that it was really easy for me just to keep overbooking myself. Some days I just can’t get enough and I hated turning people away. However, I knew some things needed to change in order for it not to feel like work work work all the time. Starting next month, I’ve decided to only take in 2 Weddings per month and 4 portrait sessions per week. I want each person that books with me to get the proper attention, taking in more than I can handle is not the option for myself or the client. I have turned down dozens of Weddings over the past year. Truthfully, this is a decision I made back in Jan 2010 that is just now coming into effect. Brides book really far in advance, so I knew I needed to make some changes and it’s now finally happening. I am looking forward to the upcoming months and being able to have a little more time on my hands.

I am so thankful for each one of you who has hired me as your photographer, you mean more to me than you know. I am just hoping that this upcoming year will continue to bring in past and new clients in order for this change to happen. I have about 15 people on a waiting list right now in case something opens up before Christmas. When I look at that list is takes me back to the day several years ago when I wanted to just give up because this wasn’t working. Note to self: with enough drive and dedication you will push forward and succeed. You just have to want it. Some days you may even need to eat, live, breathe and sleep that particular goal in order for it to happen. It will happen if you don’t give up. I am looking forward to what the next several months will bring. I will be transitioning into a different work schedule, but deep down it’s for the better.

Throughout my life of ups and downs, I am still reminded to put God in the center. Whether I’m doing awesome and things are great, I’m overworked, tired, or just feel like running … God is there. I’ve noticed God working through me several times in the past month. Little instances of people in need and I’ve been given the opportunity to either help or ignore. I’ve chosen to help and I had felt God’s grace poor over me. Sometimes so much that I get emotional and teary. I am so thankful for the many blessings I’ve been given, that my only way to show appreciation is so share my time and talent. I leave those situations with a happy heart and a refreshed mind. I want there to be more good in the world, less fighting, more loving. It begins with a positive attitude. It’s amazing what God can do. I will be right here waiting to see what he has in store for me. Not giving up, just holding on for the ride. Knowing he will provide in my times of need.

Thanks to all of you for continuing to follow my work, my life, my passion. It’s amazing how far this little old blog has gotten me in the past couple of years. It’s changed the way I do business and has helped me grow as a photographer, its helped me make new friends along the way, and hopefully it’s been a source of entertainment or inspiration for you. I am human and this is sometimes my place to let it all out. I am so glad I made it through the past couple of months. Being the sweet age of 26, I often have to remind myself that this is exactly where God wants me, this is his plan. Sometimes you have to come full circle in order to know what is and is not working. This is me and this is where I am right now. I am so thankful and proud. Everyone is in different places and stages in their lives and all I can do is stay positive. As soon as I took a step back, started trusting myself, and quit comparing myself to others and what they have – – that’s when the world seemed to make more sense. I am so happy for what I have and through all this, I’ve found more meaning in life. Hard and hectic times make the good times sweeter. Remembering to thank God every Sunday at mass and a few extra prayers is what gets me through ;)

So it’s that time of year again when the weather is changing and everyone is ready to book photos! I put an announcement up on facebook today that I only had a couple of spots left for 2011 and I got about 15 calls, emails, texts and facebook messages about people needed to be squeezed in. You don’t know how bad I wish there was another month in there between November and December just so that I could make this work for you guys. The second half of January is currently booked too, so please get in touch with me soon if you are thinking about having your session done in the near future. I currently am shooting a Wedding almost every weekend and 4-6 shoots per week. Somehow in there I’m still needing to find time to edit and spend time with my loved ones. Bookings will change a bit next year to make sure I keep some balance in my life, but for now I am working like crazy.

If you are a person that recently inquired and I gave you a few possible dates, please get back with me so you can be guaranteed that spot. They will all be full in a couple of days. Right now I only have about 3 days left in December. I will be taking off for a week or so around the Holidays to spend some time with my family and refresh for the new year. And… also to try and enjoy Christmas :) My lower back is finally healing after time spent at physical therapy, a new back brace to wear while I’m editing, and some light exercises. I am really hoping I don’t hurt it again! It’s hard because I just want to keep my head down and keep moving right along but sometimes our bodies just tell us we need to slow down!!

I can’t thank you all enough for the love and support you’ve shown me. Thank you for hiring me as your photographer or just stopping by the blog to read and see whats new!

Thank you to my wonderful assistant, Kacie for taking these photos for us at my brother’s Rehearsal Dinner. I really got to have fun and let Kace do all the work! It was at Mother’s Next Door and we had a great time! Erin Steen, the same florist who did the flowers for my Wedding, also did the flowers for their Rehearsal. Beautiful! I was so happy to be able to spend so much time with Chris and Jen during this special time. I took a whole week off of work! :) Thankfully they picked a Wedding date that was during my slow season, so I thoroughly enjoyed myself and was able to soak it all in. Now it’s back to the grind! I can honestly say though, I have loved every minute of my free weekends, vacations, time with family and friends, home cooked meals, etc.. The next 3 months are my busy season and I have never been so ready to go for it!! I am feeling refreshed and inspired since I had a little time off. Back on the saddle — here we goooo! I love my job and I am so incredibly blessed to be surrounded by such wonderful people!

The favors we made: little bundles of Hubig pies, Zapps, Crystal Hot Sauce & Barq’s Root Beer – NOLA Favs!We draped their Engagement photos across the favors table. Loved this idea!Beautiful flowers by Erin SteenAll the Bridesmaids! Me and My Momma!!My brother Chris… his sister Jen Amato to the left, his wife Jen Amato to the right! Beautiful couple! Love them!They gave us these adorable painted wine and beer glasses that looked like us!Me and my brother! Can’t believe he’s married now!My family, love them to death!Here comes the waterworks! Speeches! This picture makes me tear up…LOVE LOVE!Chris, Jen, My cousin Erin (my godson Reed is in her belly) & Justin!

It’s been a really busy week with wrapping up last minute details for Chris and Jen’s Wedding festivities. As most of you know, my brother is marrying his long time love, Jennifer tomorrow! We had the rehearsal last night at Mother’s and everything was wonderful. I just wanted to share a quick photo of my family. I’ve done a little editing this morning and about to head about the door to get a manicure with mom. I really want to bake Jen some cupcakes for tomorrow, too! She loves funfetti! Enjoying this time with my family and soaking it all in!

It feels weird to not be blogging every single weekday. I can usually plan out my blogs up to 2-3 weeks in advance and I know exactly what will be posted. Right now, I made sure to give myself some time off to enjoy my brother’s Wedding festivities. We had the Bridesmaids Luncheon this past Sunday at Metairie Country Club, the Rehearsal is this Thursday and the Wedding is this upcoming Saturday. I’ve been helping my mom plan the Rehearsal, which tonight we are making all the favors. Looking forward to sipping some wine and relaxing with the girls.

I woke up the other morning with a really bad backache that had been lingering since last week. Well after running some tests and 2 hours at the doctor’s yesterday, I got no news but ‘Oh, you must have pulled a muscle!” AWESOME! So, I put a medicated back strip on last night and that seemed to work a little bit. I can only sit at my desk and edit/do work for about 2-3 hours at a time without needing to go walk around and stretch my back. I am really hoping this passes by the weekend. I need to go take some more Advil!

I am excited about the new props that my mother in law bought me for my newborn shoots. It’s 3 adorable animal crocheted outfits to swaddle them in with matching beanies. My godson, Reed will be born in about 2 months- so I’ve been trying to think of some new ideas. I joined Pinterest a few days ago and my creative juices are flowing. I wish I would have joined earlier. That site is amazing!!! I am also on the lookout for some thin fabric in assorted colors to swaddle the babies in. Lot’s of new ideas in my head!

Well we finally have our guest room complete, it just needs something to hang over the bed. I found this idea on Pinterest that is an old picture frame with yarn draped across the center. You clothespin old black and white photos across it. I thought this would be an awesome idea for that bedroom. It’s amazing how finishing that bedroom has seemed to make our house a little cozier. I can look around our house now and see all of my and Randy’s hard work. He built our wooden headboard with his own hands. I am so proud of the way it came out. I did the distressing and I’m really pleased! I need to take some some photos of it soon. I wish I could have documented the whole process- but I got busy and blew it off. He said he wanted to make another one, so hopefully I snap away for the next one. There’s so many little areas in our house that make me smile – things that we’ve created together. That’s worth more than buying pre-made art or furniture any day.

I can’t wait to share my sister in laws Bridals with your guys, I had so much fun! She looks amazing in the photos! Another one of my brides, Sylvia had her session a couple of weeks ago, too! She’s another one… I was like OMGoodness while editing, breathetaking! I can’t wait to shareeeeee!

So I’ve taken over Randy’s little shed/workroom outside. My props were EVERYWHERE! So he went and bought ceiling hanger hooks from Home Depot. You walk in now and all of my props are hanging from the ceiling.. looks kind of crazy! But at least you can walk in there now and find things easily.

Okay enough typing for now, my back is starting to ache. Sometimes it feels good to just talk and get things out in my head. There are some many hours a day when I’m not shooting… that I’m sitting here alone in my home office. Often my blog is my platform and speaking space. Even though I have no clue who most of you are that read this, my blog is my voice and storefront. Thanks for stopping by! More posts to come soon :)

Here’s a peek at my cousins shoot from last week!

Just returning home from my future sister-in-laws Bachlorette trip in Florida. Enjoyed a nice little 4 day trip with all the girls. I am finally back in the office, so I’m sorry if you sent me an email and didn’t hear back yet. I’m working on sifting through them right now :) We had a great time in Destin just relaxing, soaking in some sun, riding on the boat we rented, eating dinner, having girl talk, etc! My upcoming October/November Wedding season is going to be pretty intense so I am really trying to relax and take it all in right now while I have some down time. I have shoots to edit from last week and I have several shoots coming up this week.

This time around to Florida I can honestly say I only took a couple of photos on my phone. I think I was just ready to take a little break from the camera. Sometimes its hard when I take my good camera to the beach because I constantly have to keep my eye on it – making sure its safe from sand and water. However, here are some of the photos I took while there. I am obsessed with instagram now! If you have an account, come find me! My user name is: jenamatogreff

When we first arrived to our rental house, there was a Wedding happening right outside on the beach. It was so cute!

Me, my friend Chrissy (college roommate BFF) and Mindy (grew up with her in River Ridge!) We rode up there together and roomed together, lots of fun! This is when we were headed to dinner.

We had dinner at Harbor Docks! My favorite restaurant in Florida!!

We went to this danceclub which was pretty random but the music was awesome!!!

The following afternoon we rented a pontoon boat and enjoyed the water – headed to Crab Island!

Pretty sailboat!

The original Jen Amato and the soon-to-be Jen Amato! Yes, my brother is marrying his longtime girlfriend named Jennifer!

Every year all of our friends get together to go the beach. Most of us have been friends for over 10 years! We typically go to Destin or the Fort Walton area, but this year we went to Pensacola. Last year, you may remember our Bahamas trip? Instead of Florida, all of our friends saved up for the Bahamas to see our friends Tim and Dana get married!

Although my website it typically for adventures in my photograph business- I like to share a piece of me every now and then. At 26, I am happy where I am in life. A business that I am proud of, newly married, a house that we are slowly turning into a home, a wonderful family and a group of friends that remind me how important it is to just relax and be a kid again. Sometimes it takes going on vacation soak this all in. Time away from the weekly hustle and bustle to just reflect and pray.

I look at these photos and realize how much we’ve grown up over the past several years – all of us have big boy/big girl jobs that were waiting for us back home. But when we go to the beach, we cut up and have fun! This was an awesome vacation and I hope we continue to do this. Marriage, babies, you name it — I just pray that we all stay close and never forget about our yearly summer vacation!

Here’s a few from our trip :)

Morning #1 at around 6:30am, I woke up and just relaxed on the balcony  – – soaking in the sunrise.

Ready for the beach!Randy’s candid shots he always takes in between!Going to dinner!Cobalt was amazing! If you are visiting Pensacola, FL area- check it out! The sunset dinner was fabbbbulous!Me and the love of my life ;)Being 10 years old again and writing our names in the sand!Crazy looking storm that passed right over us!!

Yesterday my family went to Sunday mass at Immaculate Conception on Barrone and brunch at Jackson on Magazine to celebrate my Mom’s birthday. We missed Randy though, he had signed up for an RC Race a month or so ago and didn’t realize it would fall on the same day. So, my mom…. I can’t imagine my life without her, she has motivated me to be the person I am today. It’s funny how as I get older I find myself becoming more and more like her. She loves to entertain, enjoys the simple things in life and strives to be a better person day in and day out. She has given so much of herself to us four kids that I wonder where she found and still finds the strength to do it all. It doesn’t matter if its midnight and we need something – she’s right there. I can remember getting really really sick about 6 months ago. I woke up in the middle of the night feeling like death. I got hit with a 24 hour flu bug and it really knocked me out. Ya know those times when all you need is your mom? I called her up and she was over in 5 minutes. She is so selfless, loving and kind. Anyone who meets her loves her. She’s sweet to everyone, just one of those plain out genuine souls. Just don’t mess with her kids! She jokes about that all the time and would put up a fight for us.

No matter how old we get, we still need her. Everyday. She’s someone I look up to and who I can trust. When the day comes, I only hope to be half the mom she is. I always dream about having a little girl – she looks like me and sounds like me when I was young. I hope that one day I can have a daughter, so I’ll know what it feels like to have one of my own. So I’ll finally understand the connection my mom has with me.

Mom, thank you for being you. For loving me and understanding me. You’ve always let us four kids be us. Never judging us, never pushing us to be someone we’re not. You let our gifts lead us to where God wanted us in our lives. Thank you for remembering that even though my job gets busy some weeks and I don’t get to see you that much- that I’m still right here loving you guys. I’m just trying to chase my dreams and make you, Dad and Randy proud. Thanks for the motivation and for being such a great role model. You’ve made me a better person, I love you!

Enjoyed our Sunday outing yesterday and another home cooked meal tonight at my parents to celebrate my Mom! I love getting the chance to spend quality time with my family :)

Just wanted to apologize for the website being down most of the weekend. I know many of you were trying to access your online galleries and the site was not working. In the 4 years of having my photography site, its never been out of commission for that long.

I noticed several weeks back that the site was running really slow. When you would arrive at the home page, it was taking at least 10-15 seconds to fully load. I contacted my hosting company and they suggested I upgrade and update several different things. To my knowledge, this was something that was going to be seamless and almost do its magic without any web downtime. I was wrong. A few things went crazy and it took me just about all day yesterday to recover everything.

I woke up Sunday morning with no site, needless to say I was flipping out. This is my storefront. This is were I spend countless hours writing posts and sharing photos from each and every one of my sessions and weddings. To think that all of it could be gone really worked me up. Well about 10 phone calls later and hours on the phone with my hosting company, it finally started working again. It took talking to the right technician to help with all the issues.

Thanks for your patience to those clients who emailed me about it! Now it’s back up and I have a ton to share this week, stay tuned :)

You ever have those days where you just wake up and have pep in your step and the world seems a little bit brighter? Today was one of those days, not because everything in my world makes sense right now and not because I have it all figured out. That is surely not the case. It’s because I felt God through other people today. He was just reaching out and waiting for me to listen to him. Sometimes you just need people to enter your life at the right time to put things in perspective, whether it be meeting a new friend or just having a conversation with someone you’ve known your entire life.

Over the past few months I’ve done alot of soul searching on what really matters in life and what brings happiness. Maybe it’s my age, maybe its being newly married? Is it money, material things, God, nice cars, clothes, a fancy house, success, having family, good friends, a lasting relationship? What makes people happy? What makes me happy? Having gone to church every Sunday for several years now I see that my only answer is that I owe any sort of happiness to God. He should be top priority – in doing so everything else will fall in place. I will be straight up honest- there are days when life gets in the way and my focus is off balanced. Those are the days when I’m stressed, blue and I can feel the weight of the world on my shoulders. Pray.

Since I was younger I’ve always had this desire to live my life to the fullest. I wanted to get the very most out of every single day. Which is why I somehow manage to cram as much as possible into the hours per day when I’m awake. There are days when I find it hard to just chill out. I would like to awake every day with a positive attitude and refreshed mind. The first thing that should hit my brain when my eyes open is to give thanks and not…….. let me see how fast I can brush my teeth and eat breakfast before I need to run out the door.

There are days when I feel like I just needa “get through this” in order to “do this” and feel happiness. I want to wake up everyday and just be in the present moment, enjoying it. It’s really funny to find myself thinking of these things lately because for some reason it’s always God’s way of telling me to “straighten’ up!” He seems to know when everything is all out of whack and my priorities aren’t in the right place.

Well since getting alot of this off my chest, I am brought back to putting God in the center. Some things need to change in order to feel love, to feel grace and all the wonderful things in my life. You ever look at someone and think wowww, that person has it all! Really? Do they? Personally, I feel like the ones who have it all are the ones with very little. Faith makes up for what money can’t buy. I’ve thought long and hard about just simplifying my life. I am content with where I am in life and with what I have. However, anyone that knows me well knows that I want larger house. This is my goal in working hard and I feel like that should be okay. Not even really about the house, just a kitchen and den that open up to each other :) For no other reason but to fit my big ole’ Italian family comfortably under our roof eating meatballs and spaghetti. I feel like I can picture that day in my head and what it looks like. Randy tells me all the time that I am a combination between Giada De Laurentiis from Food Network and Leah Remini from King of Queens. Seriously, he hit the nail on the head. God has a plan for us and I will be patient. It feels good to want to rip down all the walls of any sort of competition or negativity brought on by material possessions. I am working on this. It doesn’t happen over night. I am so looking forward to refocusing my energy. There is so much of my life to be LIVED!

I just hope I’ve reached one of you, someone, somewhere reading this. When things are bothering me, my first thought is how can I fix it or what can I do to make myself feel better? I’ve been putting in alot of effort towards eating well, excersise, and regaining control over whats most important. Remembering how important Randy, my family and friends are. This is a journey that starts today for me. I will continue to grow, change and mature as I age. Each day is a blessing and I need to remember that. I can’t wait to see what God has planned for Randy and I in the future. For us, our families and our friends. I just want everyone to be happy and to feel the power of God’s love. It just takes stopping long enough to listen to him!

These photos below are from several months back…. the first time I made meatballs and spaghetti in our renovated kitchen, we had about 15 of us in our house that night, it was so much fun :) Those are the kind of days that bring me happiness. Even all crammed up in our itty bitty house! I love spending time with our families. Meatballs! Randy’s are the ones with the toothpicks because he doesn’t like peppers and onions. This good little wife made some special for him.I had to borrow my moms Magnalite pot that night. Everything I had was too small. Needless to say, my wonderful Ma-Maw bought me my very own Italian Family sized Magnalite pot. It’s so big it stays on the floor of my pantry, it doesn’t fit in the cabinet. She thought I had earned it, haha. It is HUGE and I love it.

So at the end of every 4 week Fitcamp session, we always have some kind of special treat! We either have a big BBQ with the whole crew, get smoothies or like tonight we went to my brother’s Tutti Frutti in River Ridge. If you guys haven’t been yet – what are you waiting for? It’s pretty addicting ;)

It feels weird to be caught up with work right now. I usually go to sleep every night with 20 things on my to-do list. Today I edited a session, designed a wedding album, and made two print orders. Laundry’s done, bed is made, house is picked up, went and worked out, made dinner for Randy and I, and now I’m just playing around with some of the photos from our little yogurt trip. Look forward to sharing Newborn Madi’s photos with you guys tomorrow.

So I guess I’ll take advantage of having a little breathing room this week to just enjoy the down time. The next month is going to be really busy, so I’ll soak it all in while I can. Maybe tomorrow night Randy and I can go on a little date downtown somewhere?

So here’s a few quick photos of getting yogurt, the light was pretty rough in there around that time – so picture quality isn’t the best, but that’s okay! I love this fitcamp because our group is so much fun. It makes me want to be a healthier person. I can’t believe I’ve been doing this for over a year now. Come join us! :)

Anyone want to sign up? Call Guerre! He is about to start offering a 8:30am along with his 6:00pm class. I’ll most likely alternate between the morning and evening class. That is Guerre to the left and Jennifer on the right. Jen owns Louisiana Running Company on Canal, off Carrolton! Best place to buy tennis shoes!! She runs with us several times a week. She’s the reason why I can run distances like did back in High School! She kicks our butt in a good way!

We had a great time with our friends at the beach this past weekend, it wasn’t long enough! When I get home, I’m always wishing we could have stayed longer. I’m not going to lie- it was great to just be cut off from my computer, cell phone, technology and the everyday hustle and bustle of doing 100 things at once. We really just enjoyed each others company, grocery shopped, made lunch and dinner, rode on the boat we rented, layed out on the beach, laughed alot, played board games, etc. SO RELAXING!

View from our balcony:

Ashley and her little girl Sophia! ;)Toes!Our mound of sandwiches we made for our boat ride!That water was gross out by Crab Island!Enjoying our little boat ride back in to the dock!The crew we had! Fun times!Chicken & Steak Kabobs for the pit when we got back!Enjoying our last day on the beach ;(Happy 4th of JULY!!!

Wow!! I am finally up to date with my portrait sessions. It feels nice to head out the door on vacation and be caught up with every last bit of editing :) I just wanted to give ya’ll a heads up that I will be out of the office from Friday, July 1st – Tuesday, July 5th. I will be bringing my laptop and checking my email periodically, so please don’t hesitate to contact me. I will get back with you guys as soon as possible.

Looking forward to a little rest and relaxation on the beach. Our good friends are bringing their little girl Sophia, remember her? It’s going to be her first time to the beach and I can’t wait to see her play in the sand and ocean! I see her so much it’s as if she’s related, love that little girl! I bought her a red lady bug fold up beach chair today, haha! I’m looking forward to snapping some photos just for fun. Should have some pics to share when I return home. I hope everyone has a happy and safe 4th of July weekend! I am already looking forward to my shoots once I get back home :)

So it’s been a long time coming! I’ve watched my brother turn on old cleaners in River Ridge into a place that our community really needed! Over the past week, I’ve seen dancing school girls, sports teams, parents, kids and grandparents all gathering together to enjoy a cup of yogurt. Laughing, smiling, and happy to be in each others company!! My brother made the decision to purchase a Tutti Frutti franchise about 6 months ago. It was a name and a brand that came with a reputation. An unbelievable reputation. It’s known for it’s bright colors, delicious yogurt and fun toppings. You can please the ones who are health conscious with original tart and fresh fruit. Then you can please the ones who love peanut butter and cake batter with candy toppings! Yogurt is something that does our body well, the probiotics are necessary! Yogurt strengthens the immune system, helps prevent colon cancer, lowers blood pressure & cholesterol, prevents infections, reduces inflammation, improves mineral absorption, prevents harmful bacterial and growth under stress. I’ve lost of couple of lbs since they’ve opened!!

The first day of the opening was amazing. I had just finished up a shoot that morning and headed to the store to spend time with my family and help get things ready. It was fun to see all of us in our Tutti Frutti shirts greeting people! I was so happy to see a good bit of my photography clients walk thru the door. THANK YOU!! I am so proud of my brother and it’s really nice to see so many people supporting him. This is something that is going to do well in our little River Ridge community- we’re all like family around here! Everyone knows everyone. People were evening coming from the St. Rose, Destrehan area, as well as down in Jefferson. Awesome!

So here is a peek at Opening Day. June 7th, 2011. It’s been a world wind around here, spending lots of nights hanging out over there now. It’s brought our family closer together and I can’t wait to see all the great things that are to come!

9029 Jefferson Highway in River Ridge, come check it out guys!

My grandmother in her glory!! She has owned a Snowball/Ice cream Stand for 30+ years!! Yogurt is HER THING! She has been an amazing help over the past few months! We love her so much!My fav toppings!!!First customers!! They even rode their bikes there :)Special thanks to my future sis in law Jen Russo for printing these awesome shirts!! Email me if any of you guys need shirts, she has a professional t-shirt press machine and does great work!!A very happy dude! Congrats JIM!!!Proud Mama!! ;)Some of the Tutti Frutti crew!!Happy customer!My mom and her best friend of 40+ years!!! Mrs. Roxie’s daughter Bridgette works at Tutti Frutti and has been such a HUGE help!!Checking out how the machines work in the back kitchen!Mamaw and my Uncle Pat!Some of the Bootcamp crew!!

Some of you may have noticed that now when you type in WWW.JENAMATO.COM it sends you straight to my blog :) This is something I’ve been contemplating for months now, realizing that barely any of you visit the main website. I would say most of you come to the blog to see whats fresh and new. For almost 3 years I have been updating the blog several times per week. The blog is a direct reflection of me as an artist to the date. I update after every single Wedding and Portrait Session. Here is were you will find me in the current. I don’t think I had updated the “main” website it about a year. It just became hard to manage both.

So please if you are someone inquiring, feel free to search around and stay for a while! If you are looking for particular sessions, then click the CATEGORIES section, that should take you right to where you want to go :) If you’d like more detail, then feel free to use the “SEARCH” bar at the top right hand side of my blog. You can type in more specific searches. For example: ‘6 month sessions’, ‘Beverly’s Wedding’, or ‘Pavilion of the Two Sisters’. Those detailed words will pull up the exact posts you are looking for or it will give you samples of sessions I’ve photographed at 6 months or weddings I’ve photographed at that venue. What ever it is that you are looking for.

I swear guys, sometimes its hard for me to wrap my head around it all. For the month of May, I have shot 3 Weddings and 19 portrait Sessions. I wonder how all of this went from zero to sixty in just a few years. I try so hard for each of you. I try to get better on a daily basis, to think of creative ideas, and to stay on top of my editing so that I have something to share here regularly. I kind of have a system down pat now so I know how to manage the work flow. I never thought a girl who grew up in River Ridge and starting up this photography business would turn into this. I shoot, edit, design all my albums, fill all photo orders, update the blog, answer all the emails and phone calls, mail out orders and CD’s…. all by myself. I don’t have a team working under me, I somehow have managed to find the time to get it all done. This does mean turning a good bit of work away so that I am able to still have a life. For Weddings however- I have 3 wonderful alternating second shooters that give me a huge hand during the 8 hour Wedding days! Couldn’t do it without them!

Randy asked me the other day how many people did I think were viewing the website? I told him I had no idea. I pay for this thing called “Website Traffic” from my hosting company which breaks down lots of areas of where people are viewing from, for how long, which city, etc. I never even think to check it. I don’t really have the time to sit there an analyze it all. However- what I did see is that I was averaging around 15,000 hits per month. THANK YOU! That means you guys are coming back regularly to see whats new. I just wish more of you left comments ;) I would love to learn more about you guys and where you are from. It takes alot of work to keep this little ole’ blog FRESH!

There are several photo blogs that I follow and I often leave comments, it’s a great way to say hello and tell them that you enjoy their work. I’ve met some wonderful people through my blog. People sometimes email to tell me thank you for inspiring them to go after their dream of photography. That makes me feel really good inside. Like I said- I never thought I would get to this place. I think it’s weird that people know my name sometimes. Who am I? I just like to take pictures and I am so thankful to those people who have allowed me to document their lives. There is still SO MUCH MORE I want to do, and share and explore! The world is so big, our opportunities are endless and I will continue to push myself to be more creative in every aspect of my life. It’s who I am. I hope to be able to show a lot of it here on my site. Each day is a journey!

Just wanted to say thanks again for all the support- I am happy that this blog is a place where some of you check in to see whats new. To take a break from work, or unwind after a long day. I appreciate each one of you who continues to visit, you have helped me become who I am today.

Much Love on this Memorial Day Weekend!

I don’t really have too much to share picture wise today, just trying to get caught up and organize myself for the upcoming weeks. Been an editing, album design, and photo ordering fool lately when I’m not out shooting. I’ve been back at bootcamp full force too which is always a nice release to just let my mind be in the present moment. I had taken a good month or so off. There is an upcoming race at City Park that our whole workout crew is planning to attend together. As rough and tough as “bootcamp” sounds- it really isn’t. It’s a place where we leave everything else at the door and come to give it all we have. I’ve made some great friends in the group, we now have a running coach named Jennifer that owns Louisiana Running Company. She comes out there with us sometimes and kicks our butt. This morning she emailed us a quote that really hit me. Thought I would share it with you.

“There is no limit to what you can imagine. And with commitment, with effort, what you can imagine… you can become. Put your mind to work for you. Believe that you can do it. The world will tell you that you can’t. Yet, in your belief… you’ll find the strength, you’ll find the ability, to do it anyway.” Ralph Marston

I’m sure we can all apply that to our lives in one area or another. I’ve seen so many dreams become a reality for not only myself but for many people around me. It takes waking up every morning with a different attitude, a certain hunger for something better in life, yearning for a challenge and not stopping until you get there. I think about this all the time. Wondering where I’d be if I didn’t become a photographer – the world would look different to me. It wouldn’t be as happy. I’ve experienced so much in the last several years. Each day I learn something new. I learn what I want for my life. Things I really love doing, things I want to change. Areas of my business that I’d like to re-evaluate, etc. I get down on myself sometimes because I wish there were just more hours in the day to get out all this creative stuff I have jumbling around in my head. One day I will find that balance and things will begin to make sense in my brain. Until then I will continue on while I live out this journey. The growing process is sometimes the best part right? Painful and uncertain, but completely necessary to reach the place we want to be in life. I am working towards a certain goal. Are you? We talk about this a lot in bootcamp. Reaching certain goals – – whether it be physically or in everyday work life.

I can always tell when I have alot going on because I dream alot, do you guys do that? I wake up in the morning and think to myself… what the heck was that all about?? I think my mind is always moving so fast that when I finally do fall asleep it’s like a jumble of thoughts! My latest dream was my dog Lexie swimming at the bottom of the ocean, yet somehow she could breathe under there? (Like a little fish! So freaking weird? LOL!)

Anyway… Happy Wednesday! More posts to come soon ;)

Just wanted to say hello! :) Things have been a whirlwind over here in Jen Amato Photography land. It’s a great time of year for Weddings and Portraits! My mom just left- she came over to help me stuff 100+ dancing school packages, there were photos all over the place! It would have taken me 3x as long if she didn’t come over. Tomorrow I need to edit 3 sessions and design a Wedding album- we will see how far I get! I know I won’t finish, I never finish my to-do lists because I always make them impossible to accomplish in one day! My calendar looks like something blew up, along with my desk and this house. Just kidding- I like to exaggerate. I think I’m delirious from looking at a million photo prints! Off to fold clothes, shower and hit the hay.

Here’s a couple of little sneak peeks that will hit the blog soon. I have several Bridal sessions too that are waiting to be blogged. One is my bride Beverly who’s Wedding I will be photographing on Saturday! She is gorgeous! Can’t wait to post those!

Christina & Eddie’s Engagement Session!

Alex is ONE!

I’m sure most of you will recognize Jen, she is my brothers fiance. I just photographed their Engagement photos last month. It was my pleasure to help host a party for Jen along with my Mom and Aunt Brenda. My Aunt has a beautiful garden that was the perfect setting for what we were going for. It ‘s been fun putting together the little details. (Tissue paper balls, clay pot & seeds party favors, tags for cupcakes and food, sign for the street, baking, making dishes, etc). If anything, it was fun to go back to my creative roots. It kind of felt like arts and crafts at one point. Always enjoy spending quality time with my family, too. Overall, looking back though the photos, I think it turned out really cute. I can’t believe Chris and Jen’s Wedding is just 4 months away. Happy to be welcoming Jen into our family!

Here’s a little peek of our Saturday afternoon:

Just wanted to take a second to say Happy Cinco de Mayo! This is one of my favorite days of the year. I mean who doesn’t like an excuse to eat Mexican and drink Margaritas?! Well maybe some people. But not this girl! I hope everyone is having a great day. I had an awesome newborn session this morning with my friends Larry & Leslie’s little baby boy Tripp! Headed to the grocery to buy taco fixings for tonight. Love low key dinners with friends ;)

Here is a peek of cute lil Tripp!

A couple of updates really quick: I have a pretty heavy schedule this week, 5 sessions and a Wedding this Saturday. Editing every moment in between, just trying to keep up. Looking forward to a little mini R&R trip next week with friends. I’m afraid I won’t be able to take many more sessions until June. With the weather change: April and May booked up really fast. If anyone has been thinking about booking a session with me, please get in touch with me soon. Right now I am booking portrait sessions for June & July, in hopes to take the month of August off. (minus my ‘grow with me’ kids who have first priority with their shoots if any fall in August). I will not be taking any more Weddings for 2011. Right now for Weddings, I am only booking 1 year in advance, which is April 2012. As always, thank you for the constant love and support! Look forward to sharing a ton of new shoots and weddings with you guys in the upcoming months!!! :)

1. The next few months will be the busiest yet, I am looking forward to diving in head first! I love what I do so much, but I can tell you I’ve been giving a lot of thought to taking off for a few weeks this summer to get refocused and refreshed!! Ever since Randy and I went on our honeymoon roadtrip last year, I’ve been itching to do something like that again. It was so creatively inspiring and just good for the soul.

2. Bootcamp has been kicking my butt, it’s always this time of year when I get hard on myself. It’s time to put the winter fat jeans away and get ready for summer. I decided this year for lent I was really going to make an effort to get healthy. It’s so easy to cheat and give up but I figured if I offered it up I wouldn’t back down. I jokingly have been calling it the “L40x” diet. “Lent 40 days xtreme!” No sweets, no white carbs, no beer! It’s Abita Strawberry time- so that’s kinda difficult. I’ve been to 3 crawfish boils where I’ve had to turn it down! It’s okay though, hopefully I’ll shed some pounds.

3. Weeknight dinners at home with friends and lazy Sundays have been my favorite lately. I’m not sure how to explain it- I just get this sense of relaxation and comfort.

4. We have a really big family and I wish we made more time to see each other. Some of my cousins now have little ones and it’s so easy to let life and the everyday routine get the best of you. We decided the last Wednesday of every month we’d get together and have a pot luck themed dinner, all 20+ of us! Next week it’s Mexican themed, I can’t wait to see everyone and truly hope this is something we stick to!

5. I’ve been having my eye on this camera since we went to WPPI! Fujifilm FinePix X100. It hasn’t hit stores yet though! I am so used to taking photos a certain way while shooting my sessions with my professional camera that I HATE using that little mini flash camera in my purse, the quality just isn’t the same. I am hoping this little beauty will give me the effect I’m looking for! Old school look with new school functions! :) I CAN NOT wait to buy it!

6. Looking forward to planting some new flowers in my Garden this Sunday. I love this time of year when you see everything blooming and colorful. I’ve been waiting to have the warm sunny weather for a long time! This is a photographers favorite time of year with lighting too, I’ve been getting some beautiful evening light lately!

7. If all goes well with weather and what not, I’ll be photographing my brother and his fiance Jen’s Engagement photos next Friday! I am so excited, I have lots of ideas brewing! Sometimes I wish I had more time to organize a team who wouldn’t mind styling a shoot. Hair, Makeup, Wardrobe, Props, Location, etc… I wish!

8. Besides my random tidbits here on the blog, I’ve started a personal journal to document thoughts that I just need to get down and out of my head. Ideas for the future, struggles, what I’m currently excited about, life events I can’t wait for, etc.  I think it’s important to get certain things out and stay focused! If I kept everything inside all the time I’d be really miserable! I have to have an outlet!

9. You read my blog, ever wonder who’s blogs I read? Here are some of my favorites:

Lauren Clark Blog

Sarah Rhoads Blog

Jasmine Star Blog

Mark Brooke Blog

Promise Tangeman Blog

What draws me to these blogs? They all post several times a week, the consistency in their work, they blog about photography as well as their lives, they are open and honest, each is inspirational in their own way.

Are there any blogs that you also follow that you think I’ll like? If so, SHARE! :)

10. Ummm, it’s 11:30 and I am sitting on the couch while Randy watches something random on TV. I think it’s time for BED!

You ever have one of those days where you are just all over the place? Your mind wonders in 10 different directions. Gotta to this. Gotta do that. You get worked up. Get emotional. Then you’re like bummed out, then you’re happy. It’s like the weirdest thing. Today is one of those days for me- when I can’t really pinpoint how I feel. Seriously, doesn’t it happen to all of us every now and then?

Well my future sis-in-law randomly emailed me this quote today and everything sorta just made sense after that.

“May today there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others. May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content with yourself just the way you are. Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us.”

After reading that I thought about it. Why can’t I think about this quote each and every day. It summed it up completely. Thank you Lord for all the wonderful people you have surrounded me with. Through you all things are possible and faithfully I will follow were you lead me. There are things that change in life that sometimes test our strength. There are days where I feel really weak – it’s those days I ask for extra guidance. I put my trust in the Lord knowing everything will be fine.

And just because I love my dogs, here’s a photo of our oldest. An Aussie Mix. A rescue :) Her name is Shortee. She is a girl. Don’t ask- Randy named her. Her nickname is “Beans”. She likes when I call her “Beansy girl”. She is attached my hip at all times when I’m home working. (When I get a glass of water- she’s behind me. When I check the mail – behind me. When I get up to use the bathroom – behind me!) She is a big baby and the sweetest thing ever!

Whenever your feeling down, just think about that quote. It sure snapped me out of it today. Have a good weekend ya’ll!

It’s Sunday and I’m just getting home from church, I parked myself at my computer right when I got home to answer emails. The weather has been beautiful lately and I am very thankful to not be bundled up in gloves, coats and hats for my sessions anymore. It definitely can be a little restricting! I wanted to give a little update on some things. Right now I am booked until the end of May. From now until then, I have 8 Weddings, 25 portrait sessions, the 16 Mini Easter Sessions at the beginning of April, the dancing school I photograph every year at the end of April consisting of around 100 girls, oh and a few showers and parties to help plan for my brother and future sis in law! Easter is in there somewhere too, which I hope to take a few days off for. Looking forward to doing the Crescent City Classic the day before Easter as well.

So here I am….. sitting at my desk… so very very thankful. Wondering how I got to this point? Wondering how I can look at my calendar and see nothing but PHOTOGRAPHY on it. I hate turning anyone away and I want each session to be special for each client. It’s hard having to respond to emails to say I don’t have anymore spots open until such and such date. I never thought I would be where I am now- I am just being open and honest. I pray every single Sunday about my business, he must be listening. I pray when I can’t figure things out, when I need some guidance, and when I need help.

Lately, I’ve been taking it one day at a time, one session at a time because it can easily be overwhelming to look at my calendar and wonder how I’m going to get through it all. I’m just human- and there are days when I can get a little stressed. It’s just the time of year, there are long days ahead and lots of editing to be done. The one thing I have managed to be able to do it stay on top of it all- which is why I feel like I am able to take on what I do. Each clients session is edited in the order it was taken and I try not to take any longer than 7-10 days for each person. “To Do” lists are my best friend.

My blabbing is almost done- I just want everyone to know what page I’m on right now. Why do I write this kind of stuff on my blog? Because a year from now I’ll get to read this and reminisce about where I was at that very moment in life. I am so grateful for my family, friends, clients and those of you who just stop here daily to see whats new. The support is why I’m able to do what I love- thank you! I am so excited to start back up at Bootcamp tomorrow! This is my favorite time of year when we have longer days of sunshine! :)

Aright- I’m heading outside to get some fresh air take the dogs for a walk!! I have 3 Engagement sessions and a Maternity session to blog about this week! Whoop Whoooop!

I’ve been back from our trip to Vegas for about 2 weeks now, but I’m just getting a chance to upload some photos. Shame on me for only taking a few pictures. I carried my camera around the whole time too. At the end of everyday, my back was killing me! I’m not sure why I didn’t take more. I’ve been in sort of a funk lately with taking personal photos. I am so busy with staying on track with everyone else’s photos, I forget about shooting for myself. This is something that needs to change. I was always the one with the camera in my hand whenever we had “girls night out” or it was someone’s birthday. I think my problem is that I hate my “purse” camera. I really need to invest in a new camera for personal shooting. Not my big ole’ large one I carry around for sessions and weddings, but one that is lightweight and easy to carry around. Once this little beauty I’ve had my eye on reaches stores, I think I may just have to buy it for myself. I saw this little camera at the tradeshow, which by the way was awesome! It was nice to get to see the companies I am used to ordering from on a weekly basis.

So on to what I soaked in at WPPI. I went to a motivational seminar by this photographer Jasmine Star that I follow from Orange County, CA. She updates her blog just about every day. She has definitly inspired me to be personal here. She reminds me that people will fall in love with you just as much as they will fall in love with your work. And the ones who don’t like you, who really cares? I’ve somewhat held on to this way of thinking and it’s helped me to look at the bigger picture rather than just being this robot that photographs people. There is so much more to me than that.

Since I forgot my paper and pen in our hotel room, I just used the notepad on my iphone. Here are some things I typed that struck a cord with me. Stopping work at 6:30pm. There comes a time when you have to separate life from business. I have a problem with this and I really need to work on it. I am so afraid of letting people down or taking too long with their images. I am a tough boss on myself. Truly I am. She searches for inspiration from magazines instead of other photographers websites. This is something I need to start remembering to do. I am thinking of turning one wall of my office into an inspiration board of cool styles and poses from magazines. She takes her little dog for a walk 3x a day just to clear her head and get out of her office. Once again, this is something I need to do- I forget to take breaks and I just feel like I need to work work work. She talked about creating a unique web presence, learning to say no, daring to dream, breaking the rules to be more creative, and reading more. She talked about how easy it is to get bogged down. We picked this profession for a reason, so we need to take advantage of it.

I am just sharing a bit of what I learned, I hope I’m not coming across as if I am venting. Sometimes I just need to type things out to almost hear myself think. This is a career I chose for myself and I am so thankful for those of you out there who have allowed me to carry out my dream. I just need to start making better decisions so that I’m not overworked. Doing so, I will become a better person… a better photographer. I have so many dreams in mind for 2012 that I’m not really ready to talk about yet, but I just can’t wait to get there. I can’t wait to take the business to a new level. However there are certain things I need to do and get through this year in order for that to happen.

If anything, going to WPPI opened my eyes to a new way of thinking. It reminded me that it’s okay to be me. To the honest and open. To put myself out there. To get critiqued. To be hard on myself. To learn from my mistakes. To have patience. To keep my head up. To keep dreaming.

Our 3 nights and 3 days in Vegas went way too fast. We spent some time with our friends Dana and Tim walking the strip and hanging out. We also caught up with our friends Beebe, Corine, Dayna, Chad, Rachel and Jared – enjoyed the views at tip top of Vegas! We joked about how you couldn’t pay us money to do the bungie off the side of the Stratosphere Jump, it’s like 108 floors or something crazy! No thanks!

Overall- trip was great, here are a few photos I snapped along our travels! Oh yea…. and Happy Mardi Gras!

Hey Guys! Just a little reminder that I’ll be out of town from Sunday 2/20 – Wednesday 2/23 for WPPI (Wedding & Potrait Photographers International) in Vegas! Looking forward to seeing all the new things at the trade show. Having a couple of days off with Randy and our friends will be nice too! Much needed after a realllly long week. 4 sessions over the past couple of days and then we shot a Wedding tonight. I have nothing packed and it’s almost midnight. I’m sitting here typing this as I wait for the pictures to load on my computer from tonight. Leaving at 8am and have a million things to do- better get started!!!! Randy made me eat Sonic on our way home tonight because for some reason we feel like we deserve 3,000 calories after standing up/running around with camera equipment for 8 hours. Not so much, now I feel sick! Wondering why I do it to myself?

I’ll be checking my emails periodically, so I’ll try my best to respond when I can. Hopefully I’ll be able to do a little bit of personal shooting too! Our friends Dana and Tim with be there with us. I want to take “After The I Do” photos of those two around Vegas… however they hate being in front the camera. Maybe I’ll get lucky and knock some sense into em’??

Hey Yall! I just want to say thanks so much to each of you who follow my photography on facebook. It really has become such a great place to keep in touch! Since, it’s been so great I wanted to give you a heads up if you live in my area of River Ridge. My brother Jimmy is opening up a Tutti Frutti in River Ridge. Should be open in the next couple of months. I am so excited because I think we’ve been talking yogurt in my family for over a year now. Dreaming of this and dreaming of that…. It’s been awesome to live the journey of it all through Jimmy. Lot’s more progress to go and I’ll hopefully be able to post the process once it’s all finished! I helped put up some construction photos today of the location, they are viewable from the facebook page. I’m so glad I won’t have to drive 20 minutes to get my Tutti Frutti fix anymore!

Here is is, click “LIKE” to be notified of updates. (Opening date, new flavors, contests, upcoming events, etc)

Tutti Frutti River Ridge

Just wanted to let you all know that I’m still here! I feel like I haven’t been updating personal posts as much, but somehow I can always find a million things to talk about. These colder rainy months defintely slow things down. It’s a blessing because it gives me a little time to reflect on life and to play a bit of catch up. Although I usually don’t take any longer than a week or so to get all my clients their images back, I haven’t been caught up in about 4 months, there’s been a constant flow coming in. Caught up just meaning nothing on my “to-do” list. Sessions or Weddings, editing, burning CD’s, uploading galleries, designing albums, assembling albums, blogging, filling photo orders, etc. It’s been great and I am super thankful for everyone who supports my business. I am in the middle of editing last weekends wedding, then I have one more shoot to go. I should be caught up by Friday until the next wave rolls in. If you are a past bride who still needs to pick photos for your album, please do so. It is the perfect time so you can get it back faster than usual.

Well Randy and I enjoyed his birthday last week. We walked around the French Market and did a little shopping in the Quarter. We had pre-dinner drinks at Gordon Biersh, then headed up to our hotel room at Harrah’s to get ready for dinner. We ate at Ruth’s Chris, then went to play at the casino after. I shouldn’t be allowed to gamble, seriously whether it’s slots, a card game at home with friends, or a football pool- I NEVER WIN. It’s almost stupid that I even attempt to push my luck.  Not that I loose that much $$, it’s just annoying.

I am going on week number two with eating healthy. I’ve just about given up eating all white bread, potatoes, white pasta and sugar. I’ve tried to start eating more fruit when I need something sweet. More omelets, salads, protein and vegetables. When I need a snack, it’s usually jerky, peanut butter, a handful of nuts or some light sting cheese. I’ve only lost a couple of pounds but feel like I have more energy. Now I just need to stick with it!

Lexie is going to get groomed again this Friday, she looked so darn cute last time- she is due for a cut!

I have reached my 25 Wedding max for 2011, the reason I do this cut off is to make sure I still have time for the Grow With Me Kids, the Engagements/Bridals for my Wedding clients, the Dancing school shoot of 100+ girls that I photograph every year, but most importantly so that each client gets the attention that they deserve ;) Note: I will probably still take a few more weddings on the slower months where I only have one wedding booked, or daytime weddings because I love them so much. So I’m not cutting them off, just accepting certain dates.

Our house is still undergoing renovations, we have moved on to the guest bedroom now. It’s the last and final room. We started priming the walls about 2 weeks ago, needless to say- it’s still primed with nothing else done to it. I’ve been busy playing catch up and Randy has been sick for the past 3 days with flu symptoms :( I have been nursing him back to health as best as possible. He likes to walk in my office and tell me how he’s already lost 6 pounds from eating just soup and drinking gaterrade. Get outtta heaa, it’s taken me 2 weeks to loose 2, haha!

I’ve reached over 1,000 likes on facebook, thank you to everyone who follows my photography on there- it’s become one of the best ways to keep everyone updated on my recent work!

We only have about 10 days until we are headed to Vegas for WPPI. Wedding & Portrait Photographers International. There is a huge photography tradeshow with the latest equipment, albums and tricks of the trade. Also lots of mini workshops and speakers. Looking forward to learning some new things and getting to hang out with friends too.

Enjoyed playing a big game of Bonko last night with 15 girls over at my friend Melanie’s house for her 26th Birthday. We had a great time and hope to try and do this at least once a month. I love weeknight dinners with friends, it’s the best!

Soooo, I think that’s about it! I would love to get into another crafty project however we don’t have much wall space left and not much room for any more furniture.

Here’s a couple of shots I took from our little french quarter day last week. Wish I would have had more time to play around and get more photos, hopefully in the next couple of weeks I’ll have some more time to do some personal shooting downtown.

Today my husband Randy turns 28! Can’t wait to enjoy the day with him and play tourist in the city this afternoon, we don’t do that enough! I wouldn’t be where I am today without his constant love and support. We are so alike and so different, but it’s what has made us Jen & Randy for the past 9 years. He’s honest, loyal, passionate and caring. His family, friends and music mean the world to him. He rarely has a bad day. He brings the sunshine when I can’t seem to get out of the rain. I love him more than I can even explain. Looking forward to what’s in store for our journey ahead. All I know is that I’m excited I get to hold his hand while we’re along for the ride. Some days I wonder how I got so lucky? Happy Birthday my Love!

A few photos from Randy’s show a couple weeks ago:

Last Wednesday night was a memory that I will hold close to my heart forever. We watched the videos from our Wedding for the first time. The Wedding came to life again, it was as if I was seeing it with a whole new pair of eyes. All 15 of us in our itty bitty house made for quite a cozy night, I wouldn’t have it any other way. It was a celebration, it was a time to slow down and remember that this is what life is about. My Mother in Law suggested I cook every Wednesday night. Ya’ll, if my schedule allowed for it and I knew I wasn’t going to get backed up, I would do it every single week for all of us. I would do and it and love every minute of it. I don’t really know what it means to do anything quick and easy though because I am my mother’s daughter. Flowers, table clothes, tea light candles, were put out that night. What I made? 40 handmade meatballs and Red Gravy from scratch. “If you’re going to make the effort, at least do it right.” These are words I heard often while growing up. I always have backup everything too- because I hate running out of anything. HAHA! It starts to become second nature when I’m at the grocery. Gotta get backup! I enjoy going to the grocery, have fun cooking, and love spending time with my family.

In 2012, a few things will be changing with my schedule and bookings so I look forward to slowing down a bit. Until then, 2011 is my year, our year! I am working my booty off and going to challenge and push myself more and more each day. I swear there are some weeks I wonder how I got through it. I am excited about this year, I look at my calendar over the next few months and it’s almost completely booked. Between the weddings, E-sessions, Bridals and the Grow With Me kids- yall keep me busy ;) Thank you x 100!

Work was put on hold last Wednesday. It was fine. Life goes on. I cooked. Cleaned house. Laughed and cried watching our video. Enjoyed every minute of my family being over. Prayed that I’ll have many more days like that night.

So guys, I guess it’s time to share my wedding, a view into my world for a minute. Me on the other side.

I owe a million thank you’s to everyone involved!!

Preparation: My parents house & Randy’s parents house

Ceremony: Our Lady of the Rosary Church on Esplanade Ave.

Reception: Pavilion of the Two Sisters – New Orleans City Park

Photographers: Studio Tran – Beebe Tran, Corine Tran, Leslie Pendleton, Eric Bordelon, & Jason Cohen

Videographers: Blink Video – Melanie Talley & Wendy Saucier

Florist: Erin Steen

Makeup: Suzette Stuprich with UpSa Daisy Salon

Hair: Shannon Diaz with UpSa Daisy Salon

Church Vocals: Aria Mason

Church Organist: Tommy Zanca

Church Trumpeter: Gary Hotard

Reception Band: The BoogieMen

Reception Coordinator: April Laughlin

Girls & Girls Chuck Taylors: Famous Footwear

Girls Button Down Shirts: Men’s section @ TJ Maxx & Marhshalls

Girls Monogram Totes: The Knot

My Dress: Romona Keveza – Town & Country

My Shoes: Badgley Mischka – “Randall Pump”

My Custom made Hair Flower: Etsy – Byrdferth

My Veil: Same one my Mom wore when she married my Dad 34 years ago :)

Bridesmaids Dresses: Jcrew

Wedding Cake: Haydels

Grooms Cake: Holly Bratton with Couture Cakes

Reception Photobooth: Squareface Photobooths

Candy Buffet Jars: Walmart & Michael’s Crafts

Chinese Takeout Boxes: Uline

Sticker’s on Boxes: Zazzle

2nd Line Handkerchiefs: Augie Leopold Advertising

Koozies: Inman Promotional Team

Vintage Signs: Etsy – The Back Porch Shoppe

Old Time Camera’s for Guest Sign In: Ebay

2nd Line Umbrella’s: Luna Bazaar

Guy’s Tuxs : John’s Tuxedo

Guy’s Avitor Sunglasses: Amazon

Engagement Ring & Wedding Bands: Ramsey’s

Randy’s Bass Guitar Wedding Gift: Marcus Miller Fender Jazz Bass – Musician’s Friend

Here are my pieces of advice for all my future couples: I totally hammed it up. I will be the first to admit. When I saw the camera in my face, I smiled, danced or grabbed whoever was next to me to take a picture. I know what it’s like to be the one taking the pictures and I love seeing my couples interact with each other. When they hold hands, kiss or just a simple smile. I was somewhat nervous in the beginning, which is seen on my face a bit during prep. During the ceremony Randy broke the golden rule and chomped gum the whole time, I twirled my hair way too much on the alter. During the Reception, I laughed, cried and danced my rear end off. I look at the pictures and I’m thankful I did bootcamp for 6 months before the wedding came. It really did relieve so much stress all while getting in shape! I wasn’t a twig for the Wedding, I’ll never be a twig. I’m a healthy girl. I’ve gained some lbs since then and I really don’t care ;) Well yes, actually I do. But I’m working on that! I’m happy, we like to cook and enjoy ourselves. It’s what you do when you’re from NOLA. However, I do still exercise and still go to bootcamp. My last words to say are just to soak it all in. I reminded myself a couple of times on the Wedding Day to just chill out, take a deep breath and enjoy the moment. I will remember this day for the rest of my life, I am so happy I have these memories, both my photographs and videos. I can’t stress how important this is. Weddings are expensive, don’t skimp on two very important things. It’s what helps preserve that special day. Make the best of it ;) One last thing- no two weddings are ever the same, it’s all about what you make of them! Every couple has their own vision and their own plans of how they want the day to unfold. The cameras help to preserve that special day. Make the best of it ;) HAM IT UP, you’ll be glad you did!! haha.

Love you guys, hope you enjoy! I had ALOT TO SAY and lot’s of Vendors to thank!! Now you can see what this post took me so long to get up!

My Video Montages – THANK YOU Melanie & Wendy!

Click the links below to view all 4 of our Montages.

Prep Montage

Pre-Ceremony Montage

Reception Montage

Ending Recap

My Wedding Photos – THANK YOU Beebe, Corine, Leslie, Eric and Jason – the 5 of you worked your MAGIC!!! Here are just some of my favs, around 150 – I didn’t want to put too many up and jam up the blog.

Partied out. Yep. That’s how I feel right about now. This is the first night I’ve been home sitting here doing nothing in about 10 days. When I say mini vacation that I scheduled myself, I meant it. It’s almost been a marathon of how much fun I could have. Exhausted. I’ve never been so exited to be sitting here in a clean house on a Saturday night with nothing to do and nowhere to go. I also just got back from the grocery store, needless to say it’s all fruits, vegetables, milk and protein. I think I’ve eaten so much, I might turn into a big fat Italian meatball. Well now that I’ve gotten that out of my system, I’m looking forward to a new start. That involves healthy food, water and lots of exercise.

I really can’t believe it’s 2011. Where did last year go? It feels like the blink of an eye. Looking forward to thumbing through my images from last year and pulling my favorites out. It’s crazy to think how much I’ve been shooting lately – I am forever grateful to each one of you who has asked me to photograph for you. I never in a million years thought I would be where I am today. I look forward to photographing the 24 Weddings I have booked for this year, my special ‘Grow With Me’ kiddos and all the new people I’ll be meeting this year.

In 2010 I married my best friend, road tripped to Vegas, LA, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Napa, San Fran, and witnessed our best friends Dana and Tim marry in the Bahamas. I captured some sweet moments behind the lens, and also experienced what it was like to be on the other side of the lens. Learned that a handful of the brides I’ve photographed are now expecting their first child :) Watched my business mature to a new level, made some great new friends, watched the Saint’s win the Superbowl, laughed, cried, gotten sick a few times, called my mom to help me out more times then I can think of, experienced turning a house into a home. Had fun remodeling, decorating, buying and refinishing. Enjoyed picking out our first Christmas tree. Gotten in 2 wrecks this past year, one was the other persons fault – one mine. Cried some more. Read some amazing books. Worked my butt off. Edited more hours than I can count. Celebrated, danced and enjoyed the company of my loved ones. Gained some more responsibility, turned 26. Planned and organized as best as I could. Set some new goals for 2012. Grown richer in Faith and really enjoyed going to church every Sunday. Prayed and given thanks for everything I’ve been so fortunate to receive.

Here’s a toast to you all- I thank you for your kind works and comments over the past year. For allowing me to follow my passion of photography. For checking back to see what’s new, for supporting me and being my friend. THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart.

Here’s how we rang in the new year last night. 5 couples, Tony Angello’s Restaurant for dinner, laughs, jokes, reminiscing about when we were young and first became friends, toasting to a new year! At midnight, we were still at the restaurant, so we headed outside with our champagne and watched the fireworks!

Much love, happiness, health, success and blessings to you all in 2011!

Love, Jen

Just wanted to wish you all a Merry Christmas and say Thank you for continuing to read my blog!

This is my favorite 2 days of the year. All the shopping and craziness is done and now it’s just time to celebrate with family and friends. I wanted to share with you guys our first Christmas card as a married couple! It was strange not putting Amato anywhere on this card. We are now The Greffs, which is funny to say… I’m sure eventually I’ll get used to it!

Since we don’t have kids yet, it seemed like the cool thing to do was take pictures with your dogs, haha! So here are our babies: Shortee is a Collie/Australian Shepard mix and Lexie is a Maltese. It took us about 15 shots to get the one below! It was drizzling outside, the dogs weren’t cooperating, it was cold and Randy’s patience was running thin with the self timer on my camera!

Here’s what we got…. take 20! HAHA :)

My scan job wasn’t so great, so here’s what the photo by itself looked like:

What I’m thankful for at this very moment in life: a husband that loves me way too much, even on the days when I am crabby and not fun to be around. He still finds a way to make everything right in my world when it feels upside down. A family that has always been supportive of me, loving and there whenever I need something. My mom is hands down supermom and has been someone who I’ve looked up to my entire life. I slowly find myself turning into her even though I’ll probably never live up. I would have some big shoes to fill.

I look around my office and I’m overly thankful for this career that God’s blessed me with. And this house… its a home that we fix up one step at a time. I’m thankful to be going through this renovation process. Some days I wish I could just move into the house of my dreams. Yet I look at the big picture and realize speeding it up would be less exiting. Randy constantly reminds me of that… we’ll get there, be patient. There are process’ we go through that are little stepping stones to make us who we’re going to be become, how we act, how we treat people, etc… I’m convinced house renovation only makes you stronger, haha.

I am so lucky to have in laws like I do, who treat me as their own and have for the last 9 years. I am spoiled with their generosity and they are one of the reasons I am where I am. Along with my dads business influence, the Greffs have also been a great example of what it means to work hard and be successful. I am thankful to have such great role models in my life. If you want something bad enough, go after it with everything you’ve got.

I am thankful for my relationship with God, for without his guidance I wouldn’t be typing this right now. There is nothing like the peace you feel when you know He’s right there with you all the time. Faith is something that I work on everyday and every Sunday at mass. For me it’s like a little house of Faith that I’ve built, it constantly needs to be cared for and protected. If I lost it, I would feel like my life would crumble into a million tiny pieces. Without God’s grace, I just wouldn’t feel strong enough. It’s become a safe place where all my worries vanish.

I am so thankful to have the friends we do. Each one of them being completely unique and of their own. Whether it’s fancy dinners or home cooked meals at each others houses. We always have fun no matter what. There’s something to say about having friends you can completely let loose and unwind with. I love each one of them.

There’s probably a million things I’m forgetting but that’s what comes to mind right now. Remember to give thanks for all your blessings, cherish those around you, and say a few extra prayers. I am thankful I was able to spend the day with my cousin Shawn. Last Thanksgiving things were different.

Thankful for all of you as well. Thanks for always supporting me! 2011 is going to be one heck of year!

Our 5 days in the Bahamas was a vacation that will always hold a special place in my heart. Tim and Dana’s Wedding was one to remember that’s for sure! There were so many emotions I felt while being there it’s hard to get it all out in words. We are blessed to have such a big group of friends that have all remained so close. Besides Randy and I’s Wedding, this was the first couple out of our group to get married. I can’t wait to see who’s next. I met Dana back when we were freshman at Dominican and we’ve been close ever since. I met Tim when I was somewhere around 12 years old when he played JPRD baseball with my cousin. Dana and Tim started dating forever ago, just like we did. It’s great to see how far all of us have come.

The majority of our trip was spent surrounded by 30+ of our closest friends sipping cocktails, eating, laughing, losing/winning money in the resort casino, celebrating, reminiscing about old times, soaking up some sun, hearing the sounds of the waves crash, and starring at the beautiful blue waters and swaying palm trees. Paradise is right.

Our second day, we took van taxi’s over to Atlantis were we rode waterslides, walked the beach, and floated in the lazy river. Which honestly was one of my favorite parts of the trip. There is something about swirling through the bends and curves of the lazy river where you and all your friends link tubes and scream and laugh at every bumpy edge. As we floated we asked each other…. “If you weren’t here doing this, where and what would you be doing right now?” It was a Thursday afternoon; so needless to say, every answer included something work related. My answer was if I weren’t here, I’d be sitting at my desk editing or out on a photo shoot. We all agreed that at that moment in time, there wasn’t anywhere else we’d rather be.

Whenever I go on vacation, it gives me the time to think about life back at home, how I spend my days, and what is most important. There is nothing like being surrounded by the family, friends and the people you love to make you realize what actually is. There is so much life to be lived and honestly I have days where I feel like I’m a spinning top and the hours fly by faster than the blink of an eye. Over the past few months, work has seemed to take priority. I love my job and I am so thankful to do what I do, however there are days when I need to re-evaluate some things. Randy always tells me I need a closing time.

One moment sticks in my mind as I reflect on our vacation. I never wanted to take photos so badly before then I did at this particular time… Right when the ceremony ended, Dana and Tim went off with their photographer so he could get some shots of them. They had just said their “I Do’s”, the sun was glistening in the background and he was taking their pictures on the beach. I couldn’t help but keep looking over there to see what was going on. Mind you, Randy and I were in the wedding, so I was limited to what shots I could get. (My best friends, perfect setting, awesome lighting, just married…) I was like a kid in a candy store that couldn’t eat anything! :-/ This was the first time I’ve experienced this photographer’s envy or whatever you want to call it. I would never have stepped on the other guy’s toes because I surely wouldn’t want someone to get in the way when I’m doing my job. So I quietly stood back from a distance, sipped my cocktail, listened to the live band play and watched my beautiful friends during such a special moment. I took the time to soak it in and observe. I guess you could say, I mentally took the picture. Which honestly sometimes is just as good.

Our vacation was too short. Yep it was just too short. We had a great time with our friends making memories. I’m thankful I was able to capture what I did and write this post to remember a few of the details. I left wondering when the next time we would all be together again for something like this. I hope its soon because we really enjoyed ourselves. I love each one of my friends just a little more now after spending this vacation in the Bahamas. Congratulations to our friends, Dana and Tim! Oh yea, I almost forgot. I turned 26 this past Saturday. It sure was a great way to spend a birthday :)

Here are some special moments from our trip to The Bahamas…. (a good bit of these were taken with my point and shoot purse camera so quality isn’t perfect…  but it really doesn’t matter anyway, now does it?)

I’m in the middle of editing my wedding from this past weekend. It was the day before Halloween, needless to say- it was Halloween themed!! I’m loving these pics and can’t wait to share! Anyway, so I get kicks when I’m editing and I’ll find us hiding in the photographs somewhere. It’s like where’s Waldo? Out of hundreds of photos, we’re bound to show up somewhere! Anyway, I really should get back to work!! A couple of random shots from their second line to the Reception. Randy’s in the first one, I’m in the second one.

Hard to believe we are already halfway through October, it’s crazy how fast this year has seemed to slip away. As I work my way through busy season, I can’t help but think of 2011 and the 20 weddings I have booked already. It’s going to be a great year and I am looking forward to working with some very special couples! I will only be taking 5 more weddings for next year, main reason being is to still be able to photograph family, children and maternity sessions in between. Along with having the time to shoot all the engagement and bridal sessions that are included in those 20+ booked weddings. I mentioned a few months back that 25 would be my wedding cut off and I hope to stay true to my word. There’s a few things that I have to be mindful of as the new year approaches. As with every business, there needs to be rules set. Burnt out photographer = not good! There are certain things that are really important to me: keeping clients my priority, giving photos back in a reasonable amount of time, having complete control from start to finish and every step in between, attending workshops, blogging my sessions, and lastly remembering to take time to reboot my creativity in between busy seasons. I hope that I can continue following these simple guidelines I’ve made for myself. It’s proved to be a very important part of my business and I hope it’s why so many of you have put your faith in me as your photographer. Thank you.

Looking forward to the Holidays… who has their decorations out already? I bought some pumpkins at the grocery for the porch and I have a Saint’s wreath on our front door. That’s about it! Can’t wait to put lights up this year for Christmas and get a tree! It’ll be Randy and I’s first Christmas as a married couple, living in the same house, decorating and celebrating together. I can’t wait to pull out all of our Wedding ornaments and to pick out a tree together. What I would really like to do is…. drive to Mississippi and find the place where you can pick out and cut down your own tree. I am seriously daydreaming right now, I still have a couple of months to go. I’ve been editing a lot lately, so I often find my mind wondering about the upcoming Holidays/Special Occasions while I’m sitting at my computer. One in particular is being in the Bahamas this year on my 26th Birthday as I watch our best friends Dana and Tim walk down the aisle. I get goosebumps thinking about Dana in her dress on her wedding day, I will be there to document what I can, but since Randy and I are both standing in the wedding… I will be limited. (Who knows, maybe I’ll be the crazy bridesmaid that walks down the aisle with my camera in my hand, ha joking!)

Thanks for always checking back in to read and see whats new :) Happy Thursday! For all you Jersey Shore fans….. It’s tttt-shirttt timmme!! Champagne, YEA, Champagne, yeaaa! Randy hates that I love reality TV shows so much, however he does watch Jersey Shore from time to time. It’s just hysterical and mindless. It makes my Thursday nights… they come up with the stupidest sayings, its always a good laugh!

The extent of my Halloween Decorations…

It’s been a while, huh? I feel like I haven’t blogged much lately. Blogging rut and being busy are my excuses. Having a hard time telling people no lately, I’ve never really been good at that game. No matter if it’s photography, my friends, family or Randy. I’ll always seem to make it work or find the time. I am so overly thankful, as I’ve said a million times for so many people wanting me to take their pictures. I never thought I’d be at this point right now. January will mark my third year in business as a professional with an LLC. I’ve been shooting since I was a teenager, but 2008 is when Jen Amato Photography was born. Just this past weekend I was talking about when it all began. When I wanted to give up. When I had no friends in the industry. When no one wanted to book me. When I was only photographing family and very close friends. It feels like yesterday I was crying on Randy’s shoulder that I felt like I was going nowhere with my business. I had my doubts. I was ready to quit and go back to school, I was ready for something to just happen already! I learned real quick that it doesn’t happen over night. I can honestly say I’ve put in countless hours of shooting, editing, learning, listening, researching and planning to be at this point. I’m still not there, but now I’ve come to enjoy the process rather than want to speed it up. I will continue to grow as a photographer each and every day.

In December of 2008 is when Randy and I got engaged in New York. We took the trip to celebrate my first year in business. It was then that I decided to turn over a new leaf. I expressed my plans about wanting to take my career to the next level. Once January of 2009 began I knew some things needed to change. I started going to church every Sunday and I prayed about it. I always pray for guidance, but never forget to say thank you for what I’ve been blessed with so far. It was then that I started attending workshops regularly, started a blog and was ready for the upcoming challenges. It was then I realized how powerful God is and how much he had healed me. Both spiritually and mentally. I am a better person today because I’ve chosen to put God first. I am nothing without him. He is the reason I am where I am today.

I’m looking at my calendar for the next 2 months and wondering how I’m going to get through it. I have weddings every weekend until the end of November and 3-4 shoots per week. It just means I’ll have some late nights and early mornings ahead. I am so afraid of getting behind, I do it to myself. Half the time I’m the one who drives myself crazy! When it comes down to it, I still manage to always have photos back quickly for my clients. Busy first couple of weeks in December are busy as well, I hope to be able to take off a week for Christmas. I’ve been doing bootcamp for almost a year now and I can honestly say its what helps me stay sane, that and church! (Randy’s reassurance and my moms home cooked meals don’t hurt either!)

In other news, I’ve started my health kick again for the 100th time! It always takes a weather change to get me motivated. I’ve been trying to eat really healthy. This past weekend I went to Sam’s and bought more fruits and vegetables then the law allows. I am still so bummed that we don’t have a farmers market near by. I swear some days, I dream of living in the country. With big open fields, some killer old rusted trucks and objects to photograph in front of, a farmers market to visit every week, some chickens that lay eggs and I can’t forget… a house full of random mismatched aged vintage furniture. Maybe I’ll be rich enough to have this as a second home one day….. HA! Sure!

Lately, I’ve been daydreaming about taking another road trip vacation. Randy and I’s honeymoon was amazing and I would do it all over again tomorrow if I could. Having my camera there to capture it all made the memories even more sweet. I need to promise myself to take a vacation like that at least once a year. There are a lot of promises I need to make to myself, I should get a list going! Another thing I want to do is go shooting just for fun, just the two of us or maybe with some of our photographer friends. I am craving something different and wouldn’t mind taking a drive to find it!

Right now, I have 2 Bridal Sessions in que waiting to be blogged, but they can’t be shown yet. I also have a wedding from this past weekend that I’m working on right now and I hope to have them up by the end of the week. Since every post is better with a picture, I leave you with random shots of Randy and I from this past weekend only because we like making fun of each other!!!

After a long week, I am looking forward to spending some time with the girls tonight. HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my great friend, bridesmaid and college roommate CHRISSY!! She gets this special post because she tells me she reads my blog everyday! She lives in Baton Rouge so this is how she keeps up with whats going on in my life and my photography! Love ya Chrissy boo!

Life has been busy lately. Alot of.. go go go. Maybe it just feels that way because of whats been going this week. The 6 month old dishwasher went out (good thing its under warranty), someone sideswipped my car the other night coming home from dinner (rental cars, insurance claims, etc…), and then Randy decided he wanted to redo the garage and it looks like bomb went off in the backyard (yippie). When stuffs not in order, I just feel a mess!

Sometimes I forget how to slow down, stay home and do nothing. The other night, Randy and I just sat on the front porch, sipped on a beer and talked. Every now and then we get too busy to talk and tell each other whats going on. Random stuff like: planning the next time I’m going to cook for the whole family at the house, about possibly going up to Baton Rouge this weekend to visit friends, the cat needs more food, we need to pressure wash the house, our upcoming schedules, etc… The days slip away fast.

On another note, I brought Lexie to the groomers today. She has always had long long hair. She’s been trimmed but never shaved or clipped short. I decided she needed a little change, its just so darn hot outside lately! Well they cut a couple of inches off and she looks so cute! I picked her up and you would have thought she was a puppy again! Jumping around and acting crazy. Randy and I baby talked to her when she pranced in the door… “Ohhh my little lexie lou, you look so cute! awww girlie! come here!” As we fluffed up her hair. She loved it. I can’t believe miss priss is already 5 years old! Her cut today reminded me of the first day I brought her home. So white and clean!

My little peanut Lexie :)

It feels like Superbowl Sunday all over again! Business’ are closing early today, the kids are able to wear Saint’s attire to school, facebook is blown up with WHO DATS, and everyone I talk to is making their plans for the game tonight! It’s season opener game at the Dome tonight! I’ve been up late all this week trying to finish up work so I can actually enjoy myself tonight! I am addicted to PJ’s Wedding Cake iced coffee, it’s how I’m still going after only getting 4 hours of sleep last night. Well…. since everyone else is leaving work early…. I guess I will too. Gooooo Saints!! :)

Today I relaxed and enjoyed spending time with Randy and my family. Labor Free and Diet Free ;) Tomorrow I’m looking forward to my morning PJ’s iced coffee, editing, bootcamp and going to the grocery to load up on fruits and vegetables. I’ve been trying to keep more fresh foods in the house. We need a farmers market around here. When I lived in Baton Rouge, they had one and it was awesome! Wish there was one close by. The key is to cut everything up and put it in plastic containers right when you get home so you are less tempted to eat junk. Instead you’ll reach for something fresh.

One of my favorite things to eat is Carrots dipped in Hummus. However, Hummus from the grocery doesn’t always taste good in that plastic container. Here’s a reciepe that I found online that I really love. If yall like Hummus, try this one out. I make it all the time.

:: HUMMUS ::

• 1 – 16 oz can of chickpeas or garbanzo beans
• 1/4 cup liquid from can of chickpeas
• 3-5 tablespoons lemon juice (depending on taste)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons tahini
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Drain chickpeas and set aside liquid from can. Combine remaining ingredients in blender or food processor. Add 1/4 cup of liquid from chickpeas. Blend for 3-5 minutes on low until thoroughly mixed and smooth.

Place in serving bowl, and create a shallow well in the center of the hummus.

Add a small amount (1-2 tablespoons) of olive oil in the well. Garnish with parsley (optional).

So today we are at my cousins with the family eating BBQ and just enjoying each others company for Labor Day. I flung my hair off my shoulder and happen to touch my ear. I notice one of my diamond earrings was missing. So I’m sitting there with one earring? Here’s the story on my earrings… Randy bought me my first pair of diamond studs a few years ago from Ramsey’s for my birthday. They are very special to me. I am searching all over, I am missing one earring. It’s no where to be found at my cousins house. I came home and was thinking that maybe I lost it while I was sleeping last night. It wasn’t in the bed. It wasn’t in the bathroom or on the floors in the house. I am thinking its gone the whole time, so then a few hours later, I was like hmm… maybe it fell off while I was getting dressed. Sure enough, I opened my closet and there was my earring and back laying on the floor. Gotta love when that happens. So be careful with your jewelry, I’m just lucky I found the other earring today! Random stories by Jen Amato…..

Tomorrow is back to work. I’ll be editing photos from this past weekends shoots. I hope that you all enjoyed spending time with your families today. It’s days like today that we need to soak in all that’s going on around us and remember to be appreciative of the life God has given to us. I’m thankful to have a career that allows me to take off on days like today, it was really nice to spend a Monday with my loved ones.

I have a sweet post coming tomorrow of Gabby girl that I photographed last week!! She is precious and I can’t wait for you all to see her 1 Year Portraits :)

This morning I headed over to Mandeville/Covington area to visit my good photographer friend, Melanie Talley. It’s always fun to hunt around for new props to keep things fresh. We found some really cute stuff, wish I could post but I like to wait until I use them for shoots. We’re both a little obsessed with distressed looking shutters, stools, picture frames, candle stick holders, etc. Sometimes I wish I could decorate the whole house like that. I’d either be broke or the house would begin to look a junkyard, whichever comes first, just kiddin! ;) I seemed to have picked up the shabby chic thing from my Aunt Lydia who has a very unique decorating eye. I love her house! My ideal backyard would be full of greenery, a ratty old broken/falling down fence, and lots of decorative odds and ends. Anyway, so as we were browsing today, I snapped a few pics with my iphone of things that caught my eye. I wish I would have bought more! I like artsy, funky, crafty, creative stuff!

Overall, we had a great trip, it was nice to relax and just enjoy each others company. In 4 days, I did alot of eating, baking in the sun and laughing. Did I mention I ate way too much? Seriously, I have GOT to get back on track! Vacations ruin me! I didn’t take too many photos with my good camera because I always feel like I have to have my eye on it. Too much sand and water near by when I take it to the beach. My iphone seemed to be the easiest thing available for this quick little trip. I feel refreshed yet I hate the feeling when you get home… you almost need a day to just sleep that vacation brain off! It’s amazing how lazy you can be, haha! Anyway, some fun shoots coming up that I’m really looking forward to. The next month will be filled with lots of portrait session, then beginning October 1, I’ll have a wedding every weekend for about 9 weeks!! Craziness!

Wanted to share something…. On Sunday morning, I woke up and went to church in Destin. It was nice to visit someone elses church for a change. The priest started his homily with this funny story. (I just googled it and found it online)

Heavenly Bran Muffins

An 85-year-old couple, having been married almost 60 years, died in a car crash. They had been in good health the last 10 years, mainly due to the wife’s interest in health food and exercise.

When they reached the Pearly Gates, St. Peter took them to their mansion, which was decked out with a beautiful kitchen and master bath suite and Jacuzzi.

As they “oohed and aahed,” the old man asked Peter how much all this was going to cost.

“It’s free,” Peter replied, “this is Heaven.”

Next they went out back to survey the championship golf course that the home backed up to. They would have golfing privileges every day, and each week the course changed to a new one, representing the great golf courses on Earth. The old man asked, “What are the green fees?”

Peter’s reply, “This is Heaven, you play for free.”

Next they went to the club house and saw the lavish buffet lunch with the cuisines of the world laid out.

“How much to eat?” asked the old man. “Don’t you understand yet? This is Heaven, it’s free!” Peter replied with some exasperation.

“Well, where are the low-fat and low-cholesterol tables?” the old man asked timidly.

Peter lectured, “That’s the best part — you can eat as much as you like of whatever you like, and you never get fat or sick. This is Heaven.”

With that the old man went into a fit of anger, throwing down his hat and stomping on it, shrieking wildly.

Peter and his wife both tried to calm him down, asking him what was wrong.

The old man looked at his wife and said, “This is all your fault. If it weren’t for your bran muffins, I could have been here 10 years ago!”

Thought that was a cute little story :)

Random pics … a little glimpse from our trip.

We are here in Destin enjoying our little break from work. The weather has been a little blah, it starts out beautiful in the morning and then around 3:00 it starts to rain. By that time we are all ready to come in from the sun anyway, so it’s not too bad. Last night we took advantage of the yuck weather and went to the outlet malls for a little bit. It was then I realized that I hadn’t bought new clothes since the wedding. I swear it felt like every weekend there was something to do, so I was constantly at the mall. Now and I look in my closet and realize I’ve got some shopping to do! I have a problem with finding things I love yet telling myself…. I realllly don’t need it. (Like my 3rd Michael Kors watch . . . not necessary) Right now, I am just hanging out, waiting to go to dinner. We are about to go to our favorite restaurant, Harbor Docks. Sometimes I feel like we only come to Destin to go eat there ;)

I hope the weather is looking up for tomorrow since it’ll be our last full day here. Enjoying the time spent with Randy, my brother Chris and his girlfriend Jen. We have so much fun when we get together! My brother is a constant source of entertainment with his random dance moves. Last night, we just hung out, grilled some steaks and watched the Saints game from the Condo.

We are staying at Destin Towers, we have a beautiful view!

The view from our condo balcony:

Boy did I have a lazy day yesterday or what… and it felt good. I didn’t need to be anywhere or do anything! Lately if I’m not shooting, editing, or designing albums, there always seems to be something going on. Yesterday, I enjoyed being a BUM! By 7pm, I realized I hadn’t left the house all day and I plain out looked a mess! I think sometimes we just need a day like that, no plans! My work was right here waiting for me this morning, HELLO Monday! Because all my shoots where rescheduled last week from the rain (minus the Rehearsal Dinner I shot), I was actually able to catch up on most of my work. It felt good to be back on track…. rain isn’t always a bad thing. (My palm trees need it, too!!)

I’ve been reading alot of books lately about business and setting yourself apart… being the “Purple Cow” for instance. We’ve all seen the Black and White Cows, but how remarkable are the Purple Ones? The Purple Ones are what people talk about. I can tell you that about 95% of my business is word of mouth and still sometimes it blows my mind. I just recently started advertising on TheKnot.com vendor list because I felt it would be good for me to stretch out my wings a little. After a few months, I’ll decide if it’s worth it.

After doing a lot of reading, I want to address something that I think is super important in my line of work. It’s been weighing on me. I’ve been thinking about how many Weddings I should shoot per year. As I talked about in a recent blogpost, I’ve booked quite a bit of Weddings in the past couple of months. I have about 9 Weddings booked for the rest of this year and I have between 15-20 booked for 2011. And then some for 2012. Per year, I think 25 is a good number. I want to make sure I keep time for all my portrait sessions because I love them so much! And to be honest, I am so afraid of not being able to handle booking more than 25 Weddings. ALOT goes into each Wedding from start to finish. I want to make sure that my business keeps its personal touch, because to me, its very important.

There are certain things I’ve learned from my mom as I’ve watched her handle my Dad’s business for the past 30+ years. Staying organized, always being kind, hand writing notes, making to do lists and also reminding your clients how important they are to you. She has taught me how to be responsible from a very young age, including paying every bill on time: meaning sending off a paper check, putting a stamp on it and dropping it in the mailbox. (Randy is having a hard time convincing me to do automatic draft for our bills) I just can’t, ya know why? Because my mom and grandma still do the mail method, DUH! Control freak, yes I think so. Sending a hand written note out with my contracts is something I feel is very important too, I don’t want anyone to feel like just another client or just another bride – so like I said, 25 is a good number for me.

There is only one of me and I can’t imagine giving up control of the things I’ve worked so hard at. Ranging from taking extra time at shoots when we need it, editing, emailing clients, phone calls, photo orders, shipping things out, organizing pick ups, typing each and every contract, blogging as much as I can, balancing my business checkbook, doing my taxes, attending workshops, etc….. I want to make sure non of those things fall short. I am so thankful to have Randy and Dre as my wedding second shooters, they are the best and I am so glad I get to work with them. However, the behind the scenes stuff is ALL me :)

There are different ways that I try to handle my work flow to make sure the client stays the top priority. I always work on client editing from the order that they were taken. I try not to book more than 3 Portrait Sessions per week. On weekends I have Weddings, I know that I will be doing alot of editing the following week, so I may limit it to just 1 or 2 sessions that next week. It depends on the time of year too, I don’t always have a perfect schedule, sometimes things get busy and sometimes I’m free for a week or so. (Which is usually when I dive into some type of creative project for myself) My goal is to make the best of every week.

With all this being said, I wonder where I would be if I wasn’t a photographer. It makes me really sad to think about. I truly enjoy every bit that goes into it, even the mornings I am up until 2am working. I feel like this world of photography and blogging my journey has become an extension of me. It feels nice to call something my own, if that makes any sense? I’m really happy and proud, I guess it’s similar to what it feels like to have a child? This business is my baby and I’m a bit protective of it.

Thank you to all of my clients and future clients who read my blog. This is just another way that I try to stay close to you guys and let you know more about how I do things! I want you to know what I’m up to, just as you all keep me informed about your lives. Congrats to my friends Bridget and Ryan, who’s Wedding I photographed in February of 2009. They are welcoming their first child in March 2011, Bridget already has me all lined up for Maternity and Baby pics ;) Can’t wait to capture another wonderful stage in their lives!

Bridget & Ryan

I guess better late then never, right?! I wish I was able to stay on top of all my personal photos. I have so much stuff I need to get printed its not even funny! Every now and then I bring my good camera with me for family get togethers, sometimes I forget things I’ve shot until I later find them on desktop! My brother and his girlfriend Jen hosted the party, its become an annual thing. Jen went a little Martha Stewart on us and made a ton of handmade decorations. The wreaths on the front door, the table cloth runners, the big poof tissue balls under the tent, the dessert table American Flag…. a ton of stuff! I don’t even think I was able to capture it all! It’s always a good day when you’re surrounded by family and friends. There are lots of little rugrats in our family now so they always fun to photograph! These are the days that I cherish!

Here a tiny peek from our 4th of July :)

I guess it still feels like a dream that it happened. Getting Married. It’s been over 6 weeks and yet it feels like forever ago! When does it start to soak in? Some days I still feel like I’m in Wedding La La Land! I’ll look at a photo and be like hmmm, yes… I guess it did happen and it sure was a success! :) As the whistles and fireworks blast off in the background. J/k!

Sometimes I feel like re-living memories as if I were in a movie, yes pictures are beautiful and lovely to frame but sometimes I crave that next level. Sometimes I’ll be editing clients photos with music playing in the background and I just get into this zone. It’s like the photos flow, the music flows and everything makes sense in my head. Kind of weird, yes I know. So I decided to turn our Honeymoon photos into a slideshow.

Here we are…. from Las Vegas, to Los Angeles, Venice Beach, Santa Monica, to Morrow Bay, San Luis Obispo, Napa Valley and lastly San Francisco! We had a BLAST! Watching this video makes me want to do it all over again, real soon! I’m thinking about taking off one month per year entirely. No weddings, no portrait sessions, no album orders. Just road tripping along photographing this wonderful world with Randy by my side. Everyone needs room to breathe and room to feed their passion. This trip allowed me to see lighting and angles a different way. It’s nice to photograph something new for a change! This trip reminded me of how important it is to take time for yourself!

Here’s a peek at our lives the week after we said… I DO! :)

Jen & Randy – Honeymoon! from Jen Amato Greff on Vimeo.

I wanted to share some of my Engagement and Bridal Session photos with you guys. I have a bunch of stuff I want to put up actually, but it’s just finding the time to do personal posts. I still need to edit my getting ready shots that I took the morning of our Wedding and also our honeymoon pics. I’ll get to posting those soon hopefully. I’ve been busy with all the kids sessions lately and just playing catch up from my time off. I’m working on some new studio albums at the moment, too. Also, cooking dinner tonight for my dad and brother’s birthday- guess what it is? A huge pot of Red Gravy and Meatballs! I’ve officially broken this kitchen in and it smells like an Italian lives here! I sorta took the day off to cook and catch up on some “me” stuff, so that’s why there are two posts today.

So about my portraits, I became friends with Beebe and Corine Tran over the past couple of years from just running into each other at New Orleans Photography workshops. Well over time, I was able to form a friendship with Beebe and Corine so my decision was easy. We just had lunch last week with a big group of Wedding Industry people. It’s nice to network, to talk as friends and bounce ideas off each other. Looking forward to more get togethers and workshops that we are planning to attend soon. I am blessed to be a part of this special little bond us photographers have here in NOLA. I am thankful to be friends with Beebe and Corine because they along with several other photographers keep me on my toes. They make me want to be a better photographer and a better business person. At 25, I still have alot of learning and growing to do!

I am a very honest person and usually wear my heart on my sleeve which often comes out on my blog. Being in this line of work, I can be my own worst critic. I can tell you that I don’t always have the best of days and I can be really hard on myself. Yes, I am human and I wake up on the wrong side of the bed sometimes. I don’t always start each day thinking I am the coolest person ever, who does? That would be ridiculous! I make mistakes and I try to fix them the best way I know how. I ask God on a daily basis to help me with my family, my marriage, my business- everything! Having crappy days comes with the territory and this is something I am still working on. There are several photographers whose blogs I read and they often talk about the same things… being hard on yourself! I look at their work and think, OMG how could they even second guess themselves? Their work is amazing! I will continue to do workshops, grow as a photographer, learn from my fellow industry friends, and push myself each and everyday. This blog is not only a place for my pictures, its a place for you to really get to know me. I met with a bride last week who said she loved my photography, ya know what else she loved? My post about my kitchen renovation. That kind of made my day. You know, I don’t get alot of blog comments but at least I get feedback every now and then that lets me know someone likes me for more than just photography. Cause honestly, there’s a wholeee lot more to me than that!

Thanks again to Studio Tran for taking good care of me! From one photographer to the next, the other side has been a great experience for both Randy and I. I’m sure I’ll be one of those photographers that has our portraits done once a year, especially when I have kids- I think that’s so important. It’s time that you can’t replace, I consider it like treating yourself to the best present ever, ONCE a year!

Well it’s been almost 3 weeks since I’ve entered this new married world. It’s a wonderful place and it feels warm in my heart, there’s just so much to be thankful for. I’m not sure how else to explain it. I guess I could go ahead and try or at least get out some of things that are going on in my head right now:

I am content, full, happy, filled to the brim with excitement about diving into my career, nothings holding me back, thankful for so much, missing my family, missing the room that I grew up in, chores are weighing on me now, dishes, laundry, garbage, making the bed, eating breakfast, feeling like a real grown up, making coffee in the mornings, making this house a home, impulse decorating purchases, loving the way that wedding band looks on Randy’s finger, but more importantly loving that he likes wearing it, grateful for such wonderful friends, excited about all the new ones I’ve made in the past year, fortunate to have such awesome clients, there’s wedding gifts everywhere, there’s no more room for them, Shortee (our big dog) needs a haircut because I’m tired of sweeping up hairballs, she’s getting one tomorrow, I’m now a wedding vendor member on theknot.com and I’ve gotten almost 10 wedding inquiries in 2 days, I’m really happy about this, I miss my friends now that the wedding festivities are over, I refuse to get into that ‘down in the dumps’ period now that the big day is over, my future brides keep a smile on face because there’s a ton more to attend, I like how I feel like I have more ‘me time’ now, I’m rambling and it’s kind of relaxing because I don’t have to type in perfect sentences, it’s Thursday night and I can hear Randy’s band playing really loud outside in the practice studio, I will never know how the neighbors have put up with it for over 2 years, it’s loud, I’m excited about my friend Dana’s wedding in the Bahama’s on my birthday this year, I’m a bridesmaid, getting fitted for my dress tomorrow, having lunch and a girls day just because, my office looks a wreck, the house needs more work, I want to renovate the bathroom next, I need to chill out and not try to do everything at once, I know this, I need to weed the garden, another chore, go figure, I need to get my butt back to bootcamp on Monday, I swear I’ve gained 5+ pounds, I don’t really care, its happy weight, ha!, I need to start cooking more, I need to make dinner and have the entire family over soon, I had an amazing time on our honeymoon, I can’t wait to go back to Vegas for WPPI this upcoming year, looking forward to a workshop that is coming to NOLA in October, I’m still rambling, I need to go edit, I’ve been tired this week, the rain has got to go!, looking forward to my brother and Jen’s 4th of July party this weekend, I can’t wait to see everyone, lastly, I love my husband more and more everyday!

My photographer friend Jason Cohen from Lafayette crashed our wedding and took these with his Leica M9! Totally made my day yesterday. Being a wedding photographer I can tell you this, I get chills when I see photos of myself on the other side, it’s like it almost doesn’t seem real.

Hey Everyone! I will remain JEN AMATO PHOTOGRAPHY even though I am now married and have a new last name. I am back to the grind today with wedding meetings starting this afternoon. I really missed working and shooting, but I am appreciative of the break during this memorable time in my life. Thanks for all the love and support!

This is the day I’ve been waiting almost 9 years for. Today I am marrying my high school sweetheart and I honestly can not wait for Randy to be my husband. I feel so blessed to have him in my life. I am looking forward to being married, eventually having children, and growing old together. He is my soul mate and my best friend, I can’t imagine my life without him. I have grown with Randy and we have helped mold each other into the people we have become today. All I can do is thank God for bringing someone into my life who loves and cares about me so much.

I can’t believe the day is finally here. Right now I am sitting in bed with my laptop just documenting some last minute thoughts before the busy day begins. Thank you for all the love and support that so many of you have shown me over the past few years. Not only with my photography business but throughout my entire engagement. I am so fortunate to have such wonderful clients who just accept me for being me.

Hey Everyone! Just wanted to give a little heads up for when I will be returning back to work. Wednesday, JUNE 30th will be my first session back. I’ve started booking now for end of June and July, so if you are interested in scheduling a portrait session, just shoot me an email. All current brides, if you have an engagement or bridal session included in your package and your wedding is approaching… please email me to schedule it. I need to make sure I get you guys on my calendar before the next rush comes in.

I plan to change some things this summer with my prices and packages both for my portrait sessions and weddings. I will be revamping some album choices once everything with my wedding is over and I have a little time. (All current brides- your contracts are signed and you will get everything included in your booked package- ya’ll are good to go!) After 3 years in business, I am able to see what is working best for me and what isn’t working so well. Sometimes its trial and error!

New prices and package changes will most likely go in effect in early July.

Sorry I haven’t blogged much, I’ve just been really busy with finishing up everything for the wedding. Today was my bridesmaid’s brunch at Metairie Country Club- I was excited to give all the girls their gifts. We’ll have some fun little props and such for the wedding day. I’ll share some photos soon once I get them off my camera.

It’s all winding down and the wedding is just next weekend, hard to believe. I really can’t wait to see all the work come together. Couldn’t have done it without all the help from my family and friends. Randy went on his Bachelor party to Pensacola this past weekend with over 20 guys… Hmm.. to be a fly on the wall in that place!

Here’s some other photos that are going in the slide show for Thursday night- I definitely had fun pulling the photos for it! I CAN NOT wait to see how it came out!

The days have been slipping away faster than I can blink. I am trying to check as much stuff off as possible so the final week I’m not running around like a mad woman! I can not even believe in a little over 2 weeks the day will be here. I wrapped up work on Monday… finished all photo orders, client shoots, editing, current album design, photo uploading, etc.. I am officially off for one month and I will pick up right where I left off when I get home from the honeymoon.

I check my emails and answer phone calls all day so please feel free to contact me if you are a past bride who needs to finish up album photo choices, a past portrait session client who needs to order prints, or if you are a potential client who is interested in booking a portrait session or wedding. I am still scheduling wedding meetings while I am off. When I say off, I just mean no shoots at this time, however I am still able to get everything else done for you guys!

I’ve gotten a lot of things checked off my wedding to do list over the past few days. However, some things I really had no idea would take me so long! The wording for the church program took forever to get right. My mom helped big time with that, just writing it all out for me, then I needed to pick bible versus, pick readers, type it all up and send it to get proofed by the wedding vocalist. She approved it, then it was sent to the same company that made the wedding invites. You all saw what those looked like- so needless to say they will be similiar in design. Now comes a ton of emailing back and forth until its correct, which is what I’m in the process of doing right now. Tip to my brides: get this kind of stuff done early so it’s not weighing on your shoulders right at the end. Start outlining your church program at least a couple of months before. (Correct spelling of everyone’s names, middle names, bible verse picks, musicians, etc..)

Another thing is the photo slideshow for the rehearsal dinner. WOOOWZAA… do I have a lot of photos to pick from!! I am not even joking, it probably took me nearly 6 hours today sifting through old digital files and scanning in old images. I might have close to 5,000-10,000 personal images on my computer since my first digital camera back in 2004…. I’m not sure I wanna know how many pictures I have. Thankfully my wonderful cousin Casey who lives in California and who is involved with the film industry will be making our slideshow. No doubt- it’ll be awesome! I’m still not done. More scanning to do tomorrow and picking music. Another note- don’t wait til the end to do this!! Start setting aside your favorite photos all throughout your engagement :)

Today we met with the florist again to finalize flower arrangement and bouquets. Tomorrow we meet with the reception location again to walk through where everything will be set up the day of! Afterward, I need to buy some fun wrapping paper to start wrapping the bridesmaids gifts. I can’t stop thinking about how my past brides did it? It takes ALOT OF EFFORT to pull off a wedding. I’ve shot lots of stunning ones, so I know that there was alot of hard work put in. Big props to all my past brides!

I guess I’ve done enough rambling. Thank you all for reading, I guess it helps you to get to know me a little better. Hopefully my posts are entertainment for you! Maybe they will get you thinking about something you’d like to try or read, maybe you’ll start doing crafty things, or maybe you’re one of my bride’s who is taking this journey with me?! Whatever it may be, thanks ;) My GoDaddy Website Traffic Reader is saying that I’ve had nearly 6,000 hits so far this month. Craziness!

By the way…. check this picture out that Randy and I stumbled upon tonight. AHHH hahahahaha! Randy went through a long hair stage his first year at LSU. This was taken at my High School Graduation. (He might not ever talk to me again after posting this!!) But hey it was 8 years ago. He’ll get over it ;)

Last night one of my best friends graduated from Law School! Ty, I am so proud of you! Tyler and I have been friends for over 10 years. We met freshman year at Dominican where we both attended High School. We then moved to Baton Rouge and went to LSU. We lived together all 4 years while we were there. We had so many fun times together over the years, I can’t even remember them all! I cherish her so much and I am honored to call her my friend. She is always there for me, through the good and bad. She is always so understanding and listens whenever I need someone to vent to. Many times throughout the wedding planning process, she has taken the reigns when she knows I need help. No questions asked, hands down- she’ll get it done!

We are so alike and so different at the same time. We both work hard, stay extremely organized, and obsess about little details. On the other hand, as far as our personalities, I can be a bit sweet and spicy ;) were as Ty is always calm, collected and easy going. She is one of the smartest people I know and my favorite part of all is that… she knows it :) She helped me countless times writing papers all through college!! She always seems to know the words to songs, the titles of movies and the dates of weird things that happened in the history books. (It’s funny because Randy is the same way, they both retain random information)

Sometimes I think I could write a book about the personalities of each one of my friends. It’s crazy how much you learn from them and how they play a huge impact when it comes to molding you into the person you become. I always look at it like this – okay, if they’re busting their butts, I want to make sure I’m doing the same thing! I really think we all push each other along. My friends are part of the reason why I have chosen to pursue my passion of photography. I can remember throughout college, they were always my guinea pigs for photo assignments and what not! Over the past few years, I’ve noticed now that my group of friends and I have moved into the real world and we now have our labels. (The photographer, the pharmacist, the lawyer, the teacher, etc…) Time flys.

Here’s a couple of pics from us last night from my point & shoot camera:

Tyler & her proud Mama!

After the graduation, we had a delicious dinner at Cafe Giovanni downtown- YUM!!

Today I feel like a frog that is playing leap on lily pads. I’ve gone from one thing, to the next, to the next, to the next. I woke up this morning and went to the eye doctor to check out these good ole’ eyes of mine and to make sure my contact prescription is still kickin. Because who wants a photographer that can’t see clearly?? Anyway, that was first up on my list today, then editing, stuffing the final packages for the dancing school, a child portrait session, delivery of all dancing school packages, bootcamp and then a wedding meeting! I thoroughly enjoy being busy, but I think my favorite part is scratching things off my to-do list. I’ll purposely write things on my list, just to scratch them off :) I feel accomplished when everything is done!

So anyway, this is a totally random post and I have so many fun photos to share- but I just wanted to remember this past weekend. Let me fill you in. Randy and I are getting married in one month. So last weekend we went to Engaged Encounter. (Mandatory by the Catholic Church) It’s a one day class where you go and listen to someone talk about all the things you already know :) The morning started off great because we had something bad to eat for breakfast. It never fails- whenever we are going on some type of “mini road trip” …. McDonald’s breakfast it is! Why you ask? Because its bad for you and the guilt of eating it some how disappears when your roadtrippin’!? We went to LaPlace.. it really wasn’t that far, but let’s pretend like it was.

After our ridiculous breakfast, we got lost and went the wrong way a few times and I’m convinced Randy did it on purpose because he WANTED to be late! So we get there, just in time as “Deacon Dave” starts talking. He talks, we reflect and write, he talks, we reflect and write- you get the idea. About midway through, Randy kept telling me- I’m sooooo ready to go!! (He was ready to get back home and play golf!)  All I could do was roll my eyes! Anyway, I took my camera because honestly it kills boredom :) I brought it so we could document a little bit of our day. When we couldn’t take it anymore, we just whipped out my camera and started taking pictures and goofing off. I’m convinced people thought we were weird- but I’m fine with it.

Overall, it wasn’t my favorite place to be, but as long as I’m with him it didn’t matter where we were. It was a memory for us! We talked about some key things but being together for 8+ years there’s a whole lot we already know about each other. And a wholllllle lot we’re going to learn :)

Seriously, how good is the Bacon, Egg & Cheese McGriddle?

Randy, we need to do the WORKBOOK!!! Get up!!!!

There’s me in his sunglasses :)

Yes, we wore nametags. Cool. Cooler. Coolest.

Hey Yall! Wow, its been a really long time since I’ve posted a personal entry. Work has been my main priority lately and getting things back to my clients in a timely manor. It’s Wedding Session and this year my Wedding falls right in the middle of it all :) So my work load has doubled to say the least. I’ve been up late every night either working on Wedding Guest lists with my mom or working on photos. Just last week I photographed Martha Mayer Dancing School. Over 100 girls, over 100 proof envelops to fill, then photo orders to make, then print order envelopes to deliver. Life has been crazy lately. Bootcamp 3 times plus adding Crossift one day a week. I should be a muscle woman, HA! But I’m far from it! I feel better, the workouts have helped me find balance over these busy last few months. I miss Randy- we haven’t had a fun date night in weeks. I am so glad that he is so patient with me when things get busy. He never has a problem with finding something to do or calling his friends to hang out while I’m cooped up in this office.

I frown every time I walk in the kitchen because on the table there lays 3 craft projects that I’ve half started. They are calling my name, but I have to just keep telling them no…. maybe next month? I’ve missed blogging but decided today to just put the work on the side for a bit and type. I wanted to share some photos of my Bridal Tea this past Sunday at Windsor Court. When it comes to my bridesmaids- there has not been one of my wedding functions where we haven’t gone out after. Lately, everyone has been so busy- its our only excuse to see each other. It’s like we’re never ready to go home, we enjoy the company. I love my friends so much. They remind me that working hard is worth every bit of being tired, moody, and stressed because when you’re surrounded by the people you love it makes that time 100x more enjoyable.

I don’t want to sound like I’ve gone mad, but there is a reason behind why I’ve been working really really long days. Most people would think, geeze I mean take a break already!! I am taking off for 6 weeks. From May 12th- June 26th. I will not be taking any portrait sessions or weddings. That will be exactly one month off before the wedding to wrap up all loose ends with my clients (album designs, wedding photo CD’s, print orders, etc..) then I will be getting married on June 12th. A week long honeymoon and then the following week until June 26th – -  I will be packing up all my things and making the big move to Randy and I’s home. I need this time for myself to refresh before and after the wedding. I will make a couple more announcements before then so my clients know I will be unavailable for shoots during those 6 weeks.

Anyway, here are some shots from my Bridal Tea this past Sunday. Let me tell you how the day panned out before I even got there…… (I went to mass, went straight to get a manicure and my eyebrows waxed – – my upper eye lids were red all day, I think I scuffed every manicured nail, I left my cell phone at home that later my Aunt went to get for me, the one set of batteries I brought for my flash were dead and lastly my dress was uncomfortable all day long) Nothing that a monsoon at Port O Call didn’t solve later on that day. At that point, I had no worries :) But anyway- despite all my mishaps that day I still really enjoyed myself.

The famous Windsor Court Tea Parties

All the Bridesmaids minus Amy and Tyler :(

My flower girl, sweet Caroline!

Just one of the 3 plates of yumminess that we ate!

Overloaded on gifts lately and super thankful! These will come in handy for my fabric project I’ve been working on.

I love my mom so much- can’t tell you how much she has done for me throughout this entire wedding process. She is so self less and loves us to the moon and back.

Afterward at Pat O’s

Strolling the streets of the French Quarter

So over the past few days, I’ve read a really great book that was worth sharing. A Million Miles in a Thousand Years by Donald Miller. As mentioned in a previous blog entry, I went to the book store last week because I had some free time. I left with a bag of books and a new attitude. My main goal was to look for business inspiration and motivational books. I also purchased a Hungry Girl cookbook- but that’s another story ;)

Certain times of the year my plate runneth over and I realize that my calendar looks like I had a pen and highlighter explosion. So last week I decided to turn over a new leaf. I work and edit for a certain amount of time per day (typically about 8 hours, depending on how busy my schedule is) and then the rest of the day I spend with Randy, my family, friends or just alone time relaxing. I need the time to just regroup and get my head on straight. In this line of work, this is something that photographers constantly struggle with. That is until you find balance. It’s hard to find a closing time when your office is in your house- especially when you have a go go go complex like I do.

When I was younger I really couldn’t stand reading. School book reports and summer reading- pshhhh! Where’s the cliff notes? I really really hated it. I would have to re-read the page 8 times until I could really focus and comprehend. A bit of ADD, I suppose. Now, its a different story- its like I can’t get enough. I’ll finish an entire book in one sitting. Well that’s if I don’t wind up falling asleep from my eyes getting tired. It’s kind of weird to think how much I’ve changed and how I’ve really gotten into reading over the past few years. I think it has something to do with the teachers MAKING me read when I was younger vs. me just WANTING to read. Now that no one is forcing me to do it, its more enjoyable. So lately, craft projects and reading have become my relaxing pastime when I need an escape. Cooking too!

Anyway, back to the book. It’s all about creating a good “story” in life. Do you ever feel that life is getting monotonous and its just the same thing over and over and nothing special is happening. Or that you are dealt this hand of cards and you just have to make the best of it. This book is about flipping the script. Turning it up a notch. Finding a hobby, a passion, a goal. Reaching for it. Overcoming the “conflicts” in life to ultimately wind up on the other end having learned something. Taking the long road because it hurts and its painful and its more work. Taking the long road and riding your bike up the hill and not driving your car. You know why? Because when you reach the top- the sunset it 100x more beautiful. Nothings free. Anything good is worth fighting for. The author is funny, honest and real. I experienced alot of emotions when reading it- I was laughing, anxious, curious, happy, and I even cried a little. I was just overall entranced in the book. It’s a good read. It really gets you thinking about your life and how to take it to the next level. How can I change my story? How can I make my life tell a better story? How can my personal style and my outlook on life leave an impact?

For me, here’s what I’ve done lately to change my story. I haven’t watched TV much at all lately- I’ve decided to do crafty things instead. Things that are mindless yet comforting. When someone calls me to do something- I’m there. I don’t want to sit back anymore. When I have a free weekend- its full. If I have some spare time for lunch- who can join me and where do you want to go? Having faith and making it a main priority in life. On Sundays- you’ll find me at church. God has become the center of my life and I’ve watched how easily he can transform your world if you just put him first and remember he’s always there for you. When I’m anxious, I twirl my rosary ring on my finger and pray for comfort. As far as exercise-  I am off the sofa and on my bike. If I’m not doing that, I’m at Bootcamp or the CrossFit Gym. When I’m working at my desk and editing- music is on. Music that fits me and my style and fills my brain with good energy. I want “my story” to be unique. I want to be one of a kind. I want to be someone that people enjoy being around. I want soak up the last 2 months of this Wedding Planning and embrace every moment of it. I want all of this to be part of my story. Part of what makes me, me. I want my struggles to make me stronger, to make me wiser. I want my bad days to be few and far between, but to also remind me of how INCREDIBLE it feels to have a really good day. I want the same for my family, friends and clients. I want them to create a beautiful story too.  I want them to inspire me, to teach me, I want to share in their story. I want to cherish the relationships I have and look forward to creating new friends as we cross paths. Life is about making memories. Photos help to protect those moments in time that you can’t replace. They help me reminisce and celebrate life.

The Book.

French Quarter Fest this past Sunday

Celebrating my grandmother’s 70th Birthday Sunday night. Family all around, enjoying the company, making memories. Creating Stories.

I hope that after you read my post today, you will want to go out and read this book or maybe just think about what I’ve said a little bit. It’s never too late to change your story and take a turn for the better. Embracing life, saying Yes- I’ll be there, enjoying our gorgeous weather, laughing, praying. Creating your novel.  Happy Wednesday! – Jen

Right now feels like the calm before the storm. I’ve been diving into little projects this week because I had a some extra time to spare. I guess trying to soak in the relaxation and me time. I am all caught up with editing and album design and I must say, it feels nice. Tomorrow starts the rush of things that are coming up this month. Over the upcoming weeks I have shoots scheduled, three weddings to photograph and the dancing school pictures. I photograph Martha Mayer Dancing School each year which consists of about 150 girls over a 2 day shooting period. I photograph the front and back cover for the dance program as well as each students photo and some group shots of teachers, ad winners, etc… The girls also purchase packages which consist of 2 poses each – 5×7 photos and wallets. It is so much fun to see this process come together from start to finish. By the end- my office looks like a factory. Editing, sending files off, packages being delivered, filling photo orders, stuffing envelopes, organizing which student goes with which package x 150! Organization is key! There is like a million check lists. The reason this is one of my favorite things to shoot is simple. I danced for 11 years when I was younger. It brings back a flood of memories as each cute little tiny thing strolls up in her flashy costume and strikes a pose. And to think that I am on the other side of the camera capturing it all for them, is amazing! I still have every single year of dance photos from when I was little. It’s a great experience to be a part of it all again!

Right in the midst of my crazy month, my brother Jimmy who lives in California is also coming to visit for the first weekend of Jazz Fest. I will be needing a little break so I hope to be able to go along with him and some friends to relax a bit! I talk to my brother a lot about business related things and yesterday in particular we had a really great conversation. He is thinking of moving back to New Orleans to open his own restaurant- its very exciting and more details to come soon! Anyway- we’re always reading books and bouncing ideas off one another. I have found it very comforting in my three years of my photography journey. I come from a family of entrepreneurs, so there is no surprise that I’ve chosen to do what I do. It feels natural, its comfortable, its normal, its what we do, its ME! I can’t imagine living my life any other way. Having your own business takes a lot of time, patience, dedication, will, want, hunger and responsibility. I could talk about this for days but I’ll save it for another time.

I went to Barnes and Nobles a couple of nights ago and bought some new books about business inspiration/motivation. I don’t ever want to just sit back and let it ride. How boring is that? When I get free time, the first thing that pops into my head is… what can I be doing that is productive? What can I be doing to make my business better, make my outlook better, make my life in general BETTER! So, I headed to the bookstore. Grabbed a few books from my list of good reads I had been keeping and found a big comfortable chair. I read the first few pages in each book and was sold. I couldn’t wait to get home and begin filling my brain with knowledge. I started one when I got home, read about half the book and feel asleep when my eyes could no longer stay open.

On another note. Besides reading, I love doing little crafty things. Do ya’ll like fabric? I went to the fabric store yesterday and was like a kid in a candy store. I have a cool project brewing up! I bought a mix of different colors and textures- I just picked a handful of materials that really caught my attention and represented my style best. I am going to be making something for the new kitchen- we need some decor!  I haven’t really thought of exactly what its going to look like, but its going on the wall. Hope to share some pictures of the process once I get started :)

Have a great weekend! I am off to shoot a portrait session and then to a wedding meeting! And to go along with my rambling post- I figured I would post a photo of some things I talked about.

My brother Jimmy and I

One of my craft projects I’ve been working on…. I’ll show a whole post once I am done :)

We had a wonderful time at our Couple’s Shower this past weekend. Randy and I are so appreciative of The Ramsey’s for giving us our Shower. They are my parents neighbors and have been great family friends. They were in my parents Wedding 30+ years ago! My mom mentioned the other day that if feels like just yesterday that they were doing all this Wedding stuff with all their friends! We have 79 Days to go and everything is coming together! Happy to be able to share some personal photos with you all – fun things that go on when I’m not working. Well….. I am technically stillllll working! ;) At every party, you’ll usually see me lugging around my big ole’ camera. Everyone’s like geeze, you just can’t put it down huh!? It sort of becomes an extension on my arm. I’m always thankful for my friends who take over every now and then and say.. Gimme’ that thing- let me shoot some!! So here’s a peek at our friends and family- so silly and fun. I couldn’t ask for better! Love you all!

I loved the wreaths for the front door- too cute!

Not the greatest photo, but I thought the colors were cool- this is what happens when the flash doesn’t fire and needs fresh batteries. You get something to this effect.

Mom and Dad- wouldn’t be where I’m at today without them!

Some bridesmaids and some friends

All the girls in the family. Group 5 as Ma-maw would say, plus Jen R. who is basically like my sister!

Me and my love with a fresh haircut – LOL! If you know Randy, this is a rarity! :)

Me, Mrs. Beth (hostess with the mostess) and Mom!

Randy with the boys and acting crazy as per usual! GOOFBALL!

All the girls before a Champagne toast!

Cling Cling….. CHEERS!

Me and My Beautiful Future Mother in Law! She has the prettiest eyes! (Hopefully our kids get in on that blue eyed action – yea Mrs. Terri that comment was just for you!!! Oneee dayy…)

Randy and Best Man… his brother Dustin. LOVE THIS PICTURE so much!!! Laughing photos are priceless! Emotion Overload~

HAPPY THURSDAY!

So you’re probably wondering where I’ve been. I’ve barely posted anything this week! Wow, its been a crazy past few days. I have made lists for every single day just to make sure I don’t forget something important. I’ve been up early every morning and I’ve been to bed late every night. There just wasn’t enough hours in the week. I’m not complaining it’s just sometimes I overdo it a little! Since the weather is nice, everyone has been calling and emailing like crazy for photo sessions. I have 7 sessions booked next week. That may be a record for me? I’m not even sure anymore. I CAN’T wait! Lots of awesome shoots coming up and I’m looking forward to sharing some with you all! This is my favorite time of year, the weather has been gorgeous and we have sunlight until at least 7pm! YES!

As for today, Randy and I shot our engagement pictures! Wow, I finally understand what it feels like to be on the other side of the lens. Now I know what all my couples go through when I shoot their engagement pictures! I didn’t think planning coordinating outfits would be so stressful and time consuming! But overall, we had a really great time, I was surprised. I was soo nervous about it! I kept thinking I was going wig out and forget what to do! When we got there all my nerves went away, I just rolled with it and reminded myself to live in the moment. Just to enjoy it! This is what being engaged is all about. Savoring these little memories that make this particular time in life so special. So I decided to do that, I said a couple of prayers on the way there and we just made the best of it.

So tomorrow is the Easter Session! 22 Sessions booked, some sessions have more than one child. It’s going to be soo fun! I can’t wait to see everyone- past clients and even lots of new ones! I have to tell you that it was alot easier this go round. I still have the Easter Shoot Scene fresh in my mind from last year. So I had everything put together within a few hours. Randy helped me grab the hay from my Dad’s stables in my parents backyard. (Yes, we have horses and a big red barn in our backyard). So the bales of hay were first, then the white picket fence, next the bench, old time wagon and birdcage. Lastly, my mom and I went to Home Depot and bought lots of pretty flowers! The 2 bunnies and 5 chicks are awaiting their close ups tomorrow! Treats for the kids are ready to go! I am so excited just thinking about it!

So tomorrow evening is Randy and I’s Couple’s Shower. (Umm, did I mention how insane my week has been?) Yes, well tomorrow is another party and time is just flying right along! We are definitely getting close! Looking forward to seeing our family and friends tomorrow night and relaxing after a busy week for both of us. I’m sure I’ll have some photos to share from this too!

As for Sunday, besides Church, I have no plans…. I may even sleep til noon? I may stay in my PJ’S for the majority of the day? Who knows. I’m not really worrying about!

So I leave you with a couple of photos of us after our Engagement pictures tonight. Taken on my iphone, nothing fancy! I just wanted to remember what tonight felt like, what we looked like, what we ate, what was going on in my head, etc!! Sooo… we went to SLICE on St. Charles, it was so good! All I wanted was Pizza and Beer! I had eaten good ALL WEEK, didn’t cheat once! This was a like mini victory meal after our photos :)

So it all started when I gave up Starbucks and PJ’s Coffee for lent. I was like what am I going to do? (Seriously, any normal person would buy a regular old coffee pot. All I kept thinking was how wasteful that would be in the mornings – because one cup is about all I can handle!) And who am I kidding- Randy likes regular old coffee and I’m all about the flavors! (Vanilla, Hazelnut, Cinnamon, Pecan, Chocolate, etcc!!) Many mornings I was fueled by the over caffeinated beverages that are oh so conveniently located to my house! It was my routine- wake up, drive straight to get coffee then sit at my desk and begin my day of editing or shooting. So then my Bridal Shower came along and Randy’s Mom gave us one of the greatest gifts, we just had to start using ASAP – a Keurig Single Cup Coffee Maker! It makes waking up and making your own coffee FUN again! Starbucks who? It’s basically like a little mini at home coffee shop. Within a week- it became an addiction. So I’d like to give you a little peek into how this awesome thing works! If you don’t have one – they are really fun to use! It basically pays for itself after a while :) You fill up the tank on the side with water, it takes about a minute to get boiling hot, then you pick your flavor, pop it in the top and within seconds it pours in your cup. Add some splenda and Fat Free Coffee Mate! DONE!

Yes, a whole kitchen drawer dedicated to the k-cup selection!

They offer so many good flavors now!

My Aunt Brenda gave me this cup for my Birthday! I love it and drink out of it every morning!

Reflection is fun in this one!

Love the back of the mug- its a little photography darkroom tray – reminds me of countless hours in the LSU photo darkroom!!

1. I miss my grandmother who passed away when I was in grammar school. I saw a photo of her last night at my Aunt’s house and it just brought back a flood of old memories. You know how sometimes you pick up a photo of someone who isn’t with us anymore and you just have to fight back the tears. She was so rich in her faith and always just had a glow about her. She is someone that I wish was still around today because I know she would be able to teach me so much. When we were younger, my family lived with my Mimi for a little while when my parents were building their new house. My mom always says that she taught her so much and left a big impact on her life. So I guess in a way- my mom is able to pass this on to me today. Sometimes I dream of my Mimi and I wake up feeling enlightened and fulfilled. I wish I could dream of her more often.

2. I like the cheap pink shimmer lip glosses from the Dollar Store, they are my favorites for some reason. MAC doesn’t have anything on them! I always find them in my old purses and rolling around in my car. A girl can never have too much gloss!

3. I do all my editing on my iMac desktop, but I am really annoyed that my MacBook laptop battery decided to no longer take charge. Now I have to be extremely careful while using it because if I make a wrong move and it comes unplugged, then BOOM is shuts off. It’s only like a year or so old, this shouldn’t have happened already!

4. I love etsy.com. Being in the creative line of work- I can really appreciate the time and dedication people put into their handmade products. I seem to be a sucker for anything artsy. Knowing I could probably make half the stuff by myself, its nice to support someones talents. Thats exactly how I feel when I go to the Palmer Park Art Markets on the last Saturday of every month. They have the most unique gifts and crafts- I always wind up buying something I realllllyy don’t need but feel like I can’t live without. Hmmm – that would be a good definition of ART!

5. I think its weird that dogs take after their owners. I mean how many people do you know that have dogs and they act just like them? This fascinates me and I would love to learn more about it! I’m sure there is a book out there somewhere.

As promised, I wanted to share some photos from the little Ocean Springs trip this past weekend. We arrived up there too late on Friday to get any photos of the cute little town, maybe next time! However, I was able to snap some photos of Randy’s band alias:orion . It’s so nice to photograph something out of the ordinary, its like a new spark of energy and excitement takes over. I was reading something last week about how photographers get on a “photography high” – almost as if you’re on cloud 9 after you shoot something that you really really love. I’ve been hanging out on that cloud alot lately.

I’m always honest here and its often were you will find the REAL me. Often the good, the bad, the emotional, the happy, the loved, the grateful, etc, etc….. I blab alot about wedding planning, I hope that some of my current brides that read my blog can relate a little bit. There are days, YES it gets stressful. But its always manageable! Let me tell you, I am a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to certain things, so if anything- I add more stress on myself for no reason. Don’t want that to scare anyone away. I’ve gotten a few emails that have started off – “Hey Jen, I know you are super busy with Wedding planning right now, but I was interested in…” Let me apologize and I promise to turn the wedding planning down a notch! Never too busy for photography, NEVER!

Sooo, on to what I wanted to share! Photographing Randy’s band :) Here’s the thing with them, they do this as a hobby- they aren’t worried about making money, being famous or being cool. They do it for fun, they practice a couple of nights a week and do it because they love it. It’s nice to listen to them play a show. Every time Randy plays, I fall in love with a him a little more. This is one of my top 5 emotions… watching someone you love expressing themselves in a way that shows their passion, drive, and dedication. It’s a good feeling and I’m happy that I’m able to document this for them. That’s what Randy always tells me when he sees that I brought my professional camera to their shows. He tells me he appreciates that I care enough to capture their craft.

Just about every one of these shots were taken with no flash. I always shoot in Manual mode – so that means I’m able to take these without a light source, the room was almost black. I was shooting at like 6400 ISO – that is how much light your camera allows you to take in without using a flash. 6400 is very very high. In turn, it causes a bit of “grain” in the photos, a hazy effect. It’s pretty cool and it gives the pictures that extra flare that concert/band photos are used to having.

The first few shots are of them setting up, I like the movement in them.

Taking a little road trip this afternoon and getting out of dodge. Bag and Camera are packed and car is ready to roll. Even if it is for just one night! Randy’s band Alias:Orion and their friends band Makeshift Lover are playing tonight in Ocean Springs, MS. It’s right near Biloxi, but I heard Ocean Springs has a cute little town. I’ve been looking for something different to shoot, so hopefully I can get some good pictures.

Thank you to all 22 clients that booked with me for the Easter Shoot on Saturday March 20th. I sent out an email yesterday to everyone letting them know all the details for the day. So if you booked and maybe didn’t get it – check your spam folder. Sometimes when I send announcements out in bulk it gets sent there :( Deposits are to be mailed in by March 10th, if I don’t receive it then the open spots will be filled with the people on my waiting list.

Looking forward to a great weekend filled with beautiful weather, great company and lots of laughs. I hope to take some fun pictures to share with yall next week of my little road trip. Even if its just photos of a quiet little town and Randy’s band rocking out. Haha.

Today I am taking a personal day – I blame it on Chrissy and Erin. They took off work so I decided to follow right along. Lunch and manicures is on our agenda today. I say its a great way to start of the weekend!

Happy Friday :)

I’m always looking for a good read. I went to Walmart with my mom the other night and decided to buy this book. I picked it up and just started reading a few pages, it has short bible versus in it and then a paragraph that explains the verse. It has all types of stories that deal with everyday things like: emotions, fears, love, encouragement, contentment, faith, worship, hope, prayer, etc.. When I just need a break from work at my desk, I’ll skim through it. I use it for guidance with meditation, prayer, relaxation and peace of mind. These kinds of reads are always good to keep around when you just need a little pick me up. I can remember growing up, my mom always bought us little books like this. She would write a message in the inside and we would keep it in our nightstands. Sometimes she would send me little books like this when I lived in Baton Rouge just to tell me she was thinking about me. I guess that’s why I like to read them so much.

So today I thought I’d share a little passage with you. They give an introduction, the bible verse, then an explanation.

Focus on God, Not Circumstances

You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. ISAIAH 26:3

Lord, so many times it seems as if a thief is trying to steal my peace. My circumstances can be overwhelming- and they shake me up. I don’t want to be robbed of happiness and emotional stability. I ask that You would keep me in perfect peace as I choose to put my eyes on You rather than on my problems. Let my mind be steady, not racing. Let my heart trust that You will see me though.

Here’s a picture of the book is anyone thinks they may like it.

Wow! All I can say is I have a whole lot of people who really care about me! My Bridal Shower was amazing. The food was delicious, the company was great, the decorations and attention to detail was spot on, and my gifts were wonderful. My Godmother (My Nanan as I call her) offered to have the Shower at her house. I owe a special thanks for my 8 awesome Bridesmaids, my cousin Charmaine, my Mom, my Grandmother and my 2 Aunts, Crystal and Colleen. It was funny because 2 nights before the party they were all at my Nanans setting up. I kept calling them to aggravate them and tell them I felt left out! All the girls were hanging out, drinking wine and having fun! My job was to sit home and have it all be a surprise on Saturday! So finally, I get a phone call and they say….. ohhhh just come over!! Nothing major will be set out until the Shower Day, so just come! I think I got there in .25 seconds! I hate missing out on girl time :)

So here are a few photos I figured I’d share with you all from my fabulous party! Thanks to everyone that helped out, it truly means alot and your generosity, kindness and love for me was on great display on Saturday. I love yall very much and don’t know what I’d do without yall!

Here is my cake – it was unbelievably delicious! It was from Chez Ru Rene Bakery in River Ridge.

Here are the Shower favors – they were almost too beautiful to eat. I am all about attention to detail, look at the tags! Thanks,  Just Dippin.

Really? How yummy do these look?

These were from Lolli’s Chocolates in River Ridge as well.

My and My Mom :)

And the Gift opening begins!! I love how Erin, Amy and Noelle are busy at work helping me out – too funny!

Me and all 8 of My BEAUTIFUL Bridesmaids …. I mean COME ON!

Me and My cousin Erin, My Matron of Honor

Lovin’ my Party Favors!! :)

Hope ya’ll enjoy when I post some personal photos. It gives you a little peek into my life. I’ve been thinking a lot about my blog posts and what my readers want to see more of. Do they want more Photography or do they like the mix of both worlds? As for me… I love the Photography blogs I read that fill you in a little about their personal life. I get a good bit of Wedding Photography Inquiries throughout the week – some weeks more than others – it just all depends. Sometimes Brides book me right away without even knowing me or meeting me! They feel like they know me well enough from reading my blog that 1. They know they will be comfortable around me, 2. They pick up on my personality and style and know that its a good fit, and 3. They love me for being me! However, sometimes I get emails from Brides who are just inquiring and aren’t sure about booking yet. Sometimes those don’t pan out, sometimes we’re just not a good match. Maybe their style is different, maybe they are in a different place in their life and don’t feel that they relate to me very well. HEY, you know what! I am completely FINE with that. That is something that I have had to get over, something that I have to keep reminding myself – some potential clients just weren’t meant to be MY clients! Here’s the thing – this is what winds up happening…. I wind up booking people who LIKE me for me! It’s a win/win situation – the Bridals, the Engagement Session and the Wedding Day will be great because they just knew before they even booked. Anyway – this is just me letting ya’ll know how I feel about this blog and the things I post. It gives you a glimpse into my world for a bit, it lets you know who I am when I’m not holding my camera. I know that I have blog readers who check back in for all different reasons and I am totally grateful for that. Thank You! I am looking forward to shooting many more Weddings and Portrait Sessions for people who just plain ole’ LIKE me for being me!

I hope you all are having a great week! :)