L Photographie

A NEW BLOG IS HERE

2009-03-25T22:20:00.003-05:00

Time to update your bookmarks... we have a new blog! So excited!

Quick, go check it out: http://lphotographie.com/blog

Canvas is Awesome (by kristie) St. Louis Children's Photographer

2009-03-14T18:21:00.005-05:00

I have been meaning to post this blog for a while now... My sister-in-law got inspired by my "Wall Inspiration" piece I give clients after their photo sessions. It is a little file I send out to get the creative juices flowing of ways to display your photographs. Lifestyle photography is great for storytelling, and what better way than to group your images together to tell a story.

One spin that she put on her "inspiration," that I absolutely love, is she added canvas prints to the mix. I have always liked canvas prints, but don't think I REALLY knew how much until I saw these two hanging in their window light. Here's the awesome thing about canvas prints... they don't glare in light, they don't fade, they don't need frames, and are super easy and lightweight to hang. And even another bonus... down the road if you decide to add some more canvas prints to the same wall or same room... you don't have to go hunting for new frames that match. Or if you change up the look of your room, no need to get photos re-framed. Yes, canvas is more expensive than standard prints, but when you take out the cost of custom matting and framing... totally worth it! So, that's my "Canvas is Awesome" thought for the day :-)

Now on to the photos... First, the inspiration page that she pulled her ideas from. Next, her new living room photo display.

WANTED: SENIORS CLASS OF 2010: Model Reps (by kristie)

2009-02-25T11:28:00.005-06:00

I have one spot left! (Maybe two if I get a flood of emails ;)
I'm searching for Seniors, Class of 2010, to be Model Reps for L Photographie.

Model Reps will get a free two hour session with Kristie, unlimited locations, outfit changes and creativity, as well as an option to earn print credits.

What I need in return... tell all your friends!

I am looking for Reps who love to get their photograph taken, have a fun personality and stylish wardrobe. Email a small photograph of yourself, with a quick note of why you'd be a great Senior Rep and where you go to High School to:
kristie [at] lphotographie [dot] com

Thanks!
Kristie

Worst blogger ever (by liz)

2009-02-22T14:53:00.005-06:00

I realize I have been completely MIA for awhile. Which I feel has earned me something close to the worst blogger ever award. BUT, it's going to get better...much better! We have all kinds a big things on the horizon. A couple of featured weddings with The Knot, a modeling shoot, some prenancy photos, a trash the dress session and some more shoots for Alive Magazine. I hadn't mentioned that yet had I? After the fall Fashion Week runway shoot, Alive Magazine asked us to start shooting the monthly restaurant and nightlife features.

So I thought I would start sharing some of them with you! Crepes are all the rage right now, and this place in Maryland Plaza does it right. Crepes Etc has such a wide variety of crepes to choose from! Steve and I LOVED the one below. It tasted like a lasagna crepe! And it was even better than actual lasagna (which I didn't think was possible!) Definitely check this place out sometime...

St. Louis Children's Photography : Dec '08 Recap (by kristie)

2009-02-16T14:17:00.006-06:00

Playing catch-up. Here are a few sessions that flew right past the blog during my crazy month of December...

Funny story about this little fish...

So, Gage had left it behind at our shoot. I stashed it in the front pocket of my camera backpack so I could return it later. One day at home I was sitting on the couch, and here comes my cat, Pace, marching right on by me with it in his mouth. He was prancing on by like he just found his favorite new little toy. Nice try, buddy! We did return the fish to Gage (my cat has PLENTY of toys, don't worry). But I couldn't stop laughing that he dug it out of my camera bag!!

Wall Decoration (by kristie) St. Louis Children's photography

2009-02-02T11:04:00.005-06:00

I'm a little behind on the portrait postings... I have a few sessions to share that I'll post later this week as my "wrapping up 2008" in photography.

But in the meantime...

Wanted to share a great little find. If you're redecorating a room for the little ones, you must check this out. Super easy and great design. WallCandy Arts. They are wall decals - sort-of like a sticker but it won't ruin your walls! They are easy to apply and easy to move if you make a mistake, or want to move your design to a different room. Here's the site, and a few of my favorites below! Mix and match and create your own room masterpiece... with a few favorite photos in the wall design mix (I'd suggest multiple small square canvas wraps) you'll have a posh room for sure ;)

http://www.wallcandyarts.com

Hallmark Photo Cards (by kristie)

2009-01-20T10:10:00.005-06:00

Just sharing a little something I found...
Here are some pretty cool photo cards that you can buy as singles from Hallmark. (I thought photo cards only came in bulk packs). As most of my family and friends know, I am a little bit of a card-Natzi and usually read every card in the store before I choose one. I just love a good card. That's why I got so excited about this :) Here is the link. Go have some photo fun!

And just in time for Valentine's Day, here are some of their designs...

Julie & Matt's Wedding (by liz)

2009-01-11T18:56:00.013-06:00

Wow - I feel like I haven't done this in awhile. Please forgive me - I tend to go in spurts when it comes to blogging. It's kind of like dieting...nothing but veggies for one week and nothing but cheeseburgers and cookies the next. Ok, diving in...Julie and Matt were married in December surrounded by the beauty of the holidays. Christmas trees, poinsettias, lights and all! Historic St. Charles was all sparkly (is that a word?) which complimented the sparkler send off at the end of this memorable evening.

This was another perfect wedding from the gals over at Alred Wedding Consultants. If they are involved you can bet everything goes off without a hitch...or at least no one will notice the "hitches" if they happen to occur.

Julie and Matt are so comfortable together. It may have something to do with them being together since they were...wait for it...in junior high? Or was it grade school? I mean, "high school sweethearts" always amaze me but this might be a record! I'm pretty sure they started going steady about the same time I had a crush on Joey from New Kids on the Block. :)

The wedding was at the same Methodist church where both Julie's parents AND Matt's parents were married years ago (how cool and rare is that?) and the reception was at the Foundry Art Center in St. Charles. I hadn't been there since it was very new a few years ago and they have made some beautiful improvements! I already liked it to begin with.

To finish off the evening, Julie surprised Matt with a Rolls Royce from Best Transportation to carry them away. Loved it. All of it. Congrats guys!

Introducing the Mémoire Collection by Eric Scott (by kristie)

2008-12-30T22:54:00.007-06:00

Yes! It has finally arrived. I've been talking about these goodies for a while and am excited to share a new product I will be offering in 2009.

The Mémoire Collection by Eric Scott.

Wander over to their website, surf around the products and let me know if you need one of your 2008 images created "stat". A little post-Christmas gift to yourself ;) Yummy leather with your photo printed directly on it. It is really top notch! (I must say... much better than the canvas versions I've seen wandering around).

And, to all my clients who let me show off their photos in Eric Scott's samples and marketing materials - a BIG Thank You! I will be sending you an email soon with a little something.

Here are a few faces you may recognize... and many more on the Eric Scott website: www.ericscott.com , so go check it out!

And Happy New Year!

L Photographie Holiday Wishes...

2008-12-23T14:14:00.006-06:00

to you and yours!

We had a good laugh at ourselves baking cookies, attempting to draw with icing (WHOLE NEW respect for wedding cake artists by the way!), being blonds and taking a trip to the 50's with our goofy holiday cards for our clients and friends. We hope they gave you a good laugh and an "oh my" as you opened the cards. Now we have one year to try and top it ;)

And just so you can share in some behind-the-scenes ridiculousness, here are a few outtakes. Feel free to laugh at us. We did.

We wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, Yuletide Greetings and a very Happy New Year! To whatever you're celebrating, we wish you and your family all the best.
Happy Holidays!

St. Louis Children's Photography: Hayley & Grace (by kristie)

2008-12-18T17:28:00.007-06:00

Another Holiday card session share... these two girls are just too beautiful for words, so on to the photos :)

St. Louis Children's Photography: Cannon (by kristie)

2008-12-09T13:25:00.010-06:00

Sorry I've been a little quite lately... it has not been due to lack of photo taking. It's been a busy holiday shooting season - so Thanks!

Here is a little guy I captured late November. I had a group of kids this day and decided they may be at that age where Santa might bring out some tears ... so instead of hanging out with Santa, I let the kids dress as Santa if they wanted. Cannon was perfect! Although with Santa's coat on, I think he looks like a little wizard from Harry Potter :) Love it.

(more from this day to come later!)

This is one of my new favorite photos of all time! Bonnie, I recommend this one very large in your new place :)

Michelle & Jason (by liz)

2008-12-07T12:16:00.022-06:00

You may have seen Michelle & Jason before...I think I posted some of their engagement photos...oh, about a year ago. How time flies...now they are married! I know I've mentioned how much I LOVE fall over and over again...ok, just a couple more times to go. Promise. The colors are just so beautiful and warm, the light quiality is amazing, & the weather is just cool enough that you want to cuddle up next to someone. And it's certainly the perfect time to cuddle up next to your new husband or wife! Here we go...let's start with the sparkly shoes...

Finishing up with a little last minute dress fluffing...

Putting on that dress makes every girl feel like a beautiful princess. I think you'll agree she fits the bill! I can see it on her face...

Michelle and Jason decided to see each other before the ceremony so that we could go out and get some great photos. So we headed off to the Muny and she's about to walk up behind him...

You can already tell this is going to be a great day.

This is one of the maids of honor who you will be seeing more of next year when I have the honor of photographing her wedding. Congrats Emily!

Location 2: Kiener Plaza - it was really a great day for it (again with the quality of light during the fall season.) You will see that Michelle and Jason did a lot of kissing all over St. Louis. Some people are just good kissers...it looks natural and they are comfortable with each other. And then I just can't help but keep asking them to do it!

Location 3: My favorite alley. I just can't seem to stay away! It looks different every time I go based on the time of day and the weather. I love this one...

And this one is just plain playful.

Location 4: Grand Basin. More kissing (and dipping!) Perfect lens flare (those little colorful circles) is something I find tough to acheive, but I love it in this shot.
Location 5: Our final stop and the site of both the wedding and reception. The World's Fair Pavilion at Forest Park. It is truly one of my very, very favorite venues. Actually, if I HAD to choose one favorite (which is tough because St. Louis has so many beautiful options) I am pretty sure I would choose this one. A sunset, fall wedding in Forest Park. Stunning. Details first...the whimsical cake, engagement photo embellished programs and charicatures for all!

I really do love the way these yellow roses with a hint of orange show up in all of the photographs. They are the perfect little ball of color!

The centerpieces were comprised of gold flaked coffee beans in vases filled with curly willow sitting on wavy orange mats. The table numbers were enscribed on the vases in gold. 10 points for creativity!

And the reception...I think I will stop talking now. Michelle & Jason - congratulations! Your wedding was beautiful and thank you for choosing me to capture it! :)

Gobble Gobble! (by liz)

2008-11-27T12:52:00.005-06:00

Just a quick note to say happy Thanksgiving! Ever make cut out sugar cookies? My mother always made the best sugar cookies (little shout to to Linda!) So I figure, as her daughter, that gene should have been passed down right? I mean, if I get the recipe from her and follow the directions (I can read - yay me!) how hard can it be? Yeowsers...I have a whole new respect for sugar cookies. Four and a half hours later with dough sticking everywhere and flour flying around the kitchen like smoke, we have some beautiful leaf shaped sugar cookies to take to Thanksgiving. I just thought it would be cute. Leave it to me to underestimate the sugar cookie. My husband Steve actually looked in the mirror and freaked out that he was getting gray in his beard but it was really just some rogue flour that landed on his face. Who am I kidding?! I totally put it there. :)

I hope you get to gobble up some cookies this Thanksgiving! But before you do, take a close look at it, appreciate the love (and time...and mess) that went into it. I know it will. :)

St. Louis Children's Photography: Henry (by kristie)

2008-11-19T21:14:00.005-06:00

What a perfect little face! Meet Henry... only home from the hospital for a few days in these photos, but I definitely caught him at his "awake" time of day. He is so precious and has some very proud new parents!
And I just LOVE the pumpkin sac his mom found! Would it be weird if I hung the photo of him on their dining room chair in my dining room? Just kidding ... sort of ;)

Holly & Nick (by liz)

2008-11-16T21:12:00.012-06:00

This was one of those perfect late summer/early fall days. We got lucky this year - we had more of them than usual. Usually I think that people who say they like living in St. Louis because they get to experience all four seasons are crazy. In my opinion, when it comes to spring and fall, two weeks does not a "season" make. Holly and Nick got one of these few days or their wedding day...and seeing as it was an outdoor wedding with a partially outdoor reception at the beautiful Artists Guild, it was a good thing! These two make a nice looking couple...Nick with his funky hair and Holly with her perfect skin. I am sure you will agree! And I would be remis if I didn't thank the talented Tim Gau for filling in for Kristie as my second shooter. If you've met me then you know I'm vertically challenged...Tim however is not. It was nice to have someone along who could actually reach things and hang a wedding dress from a window. :)

I love these next couple of shots. I have a whole set of these...one which I am using in my next ad in Saint Louis Bride Magazine...keep your eyes peeled!

Fabulous purple shoes. My first pair of purple wedding shoes ever...love it!

This is Nick's face when he sees Holly for the first time. Normally I get a smile or a loving look but this wrinkly little smirk is truly endearing.

Off to the riverfront for some great textured shots.

And my new favorite alley.

Shoes again!

Ceremony at the Artists Guild. Perfect time of day for light...the sun hasn't technically set, we are just sitting low enough that it seems as if it is under the horizon.

I love this cake....it is so unique. AND the lighting in this shot along with the chandelier and the decor make it feel antique. Like it was a taken on a romantic evening in 1820.

Thanks guys - this was a beautiful day!

St. Louis Children's Photography: J David (by kristie)

2008-10-31T14:07:00.004-05:00

My last post before heading to the Big Island of Hawaii. Oh yeah!

And let me just start by saying I LOVE KIDS IN HATS. This family was so much fun. I really could have just photographed this little guy all day long... can't get over his big smile.

And what is at the end of this cord that keeps tugging ...

A puppy!

Mom brought along a birthday cake for the big "1" and we got to tear into it. Awesome! And by tear into it, I mean he carefully pulled the dots off and licked them :) What a good little guy.

The Kells (by kristie)

2008-10-30T17:35:00.001-05:00

A late afternoon in sunny Francis Park... Here is Trevor, a should be gap kids model, his beautiful mother and dad with a mohawk :)

seriously... he dove down this huge slide head first... came around that corner and went air borne... and loved every minute of it.

Kristie or the Christmas Fairy? (by liz)

2008-10-30T15:39:00.009-05:00

Kristie, Kristie, Kristie...oh how I love this photo! I randomly came across it online. And when I say random I mean random. She never told me about it (keeping secrets isn't healthy Kris.) I was actually searching for a person who just happened to be on the commitee for Christmas in St. Louis. So I'm searching for this person and google brings me to http://www.christmasinstlouis.org. I started clicking around for no reason really (besides the fact that I LOVE the holidays and everything to do with them!) And then I click on apparel looking for some cute scarves or hats or something (because I have a shopping addiction) and what do I find? It's Kristie modeling red and green on every inch of her upper body! I think to myself..."Could that really be her? No, it couldn't. But it is! It is! And the Christmas spirit threw up all over her!"

It's too bad Kristie is headed to Hawaii for a couple of weeks and won't be needing her festive holiday garments. :) Keep an eye out for her on the streets in December though...she will be tough to miss. (I'm literally cracking myself up right now.) liz

Charlie (by kristie)

2008-10-29T20:52:00.014-05:00

HOW CUTIE-CUTE is this little guy!
I love his little feet. (definitely some of my new favorite baby feet photos)
Hope you enjoy the preview mom & dad :)

And a HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
(Charlie wishes you the same...)

Liz & Mark (by liz)

2008-10-22T20:24:00.025-05:00

This was a really cool and different wedding. It took place over in Illinios (I don't get to shoot over there very often - it is odd that the river truly is a great divide in this city!) and it was at a winery called Villa Marie which JUST openend. Actually, this was the first wedding there!

They had so many neat little touches including a fabulous ride in a Rolls Royce and a sparkler exit. Props to wedding planner Renee Joshu for a fabulous job working in all of the details and making sure the day went off without a hitch! Well these two got hitched...you know what I mean. :) It was so obvious how much these two care for each other and how happy their families and friends were for them. Take a look!

Beautiful programs, flower girl and cake...yum.

A few finishing touches...

These next two shots captured Liz & Mark seeing each other for the first time...

The beautiful tropical flowers designed by Rich West...

This was such a touching moment. The girls all gathered around for a prayer before the ceremony...

And the beautiful ceremony. It was originally supposed to be outside but we got a ton of rain overnight and in the morning making the ground way too squishy. Luckily the space inside is gorgeous as well.

After the ceremony Liz, Mark and I took a ride in the Rolls to go get some ice cream, or um custard (makes it sound healthier doesn't it?!) at Bobby's. I totally snuck in the bulding to take some photos of them ordering - I was so stealthy that we got a good laugh out of me popping up out of nowhere!

Then we had a fun photo session around the winery and a nearby barn...I LOVE the texture on this barn. Side story - Kristie had actually broken bones in both of her feet the night before and the fabulous Von DeVore filled in for her in a pinch. Von and I had a great time working together...we even climbed around in some weeds and got all of these crazy little sticky green things all over our pants! Always something new I tell ya...

Cute shoes eh?

Off to the reception!

This might just be my favorite shot of the day. Can you say "tear"? sniff...sniff...

And a sparkling exit! Congratulations guys!

Bret & Buddy (by kristie)

2008-10-20T23:13:00.005-05:00

Check out these two... Bret couldn't be sweeter and Buddy couldn't be fluffier. What a cute pair! We ran all over the yard just trying to wear Buddy out a little bit. And I don't want to even mention how many treats he got. Ha Ha.

St. Louis Children's Photographer: Can't get enough... (by kristie)

2008-10-19T22:48:00.010-05:00

of these two little girls! My top models... and my nieces :)
You may recognize this little face. (Still makes me crack up every time I look at it)

And here she is now! With the cutest little pig tails I just want to squeeze off her head. I love it. So darn cute.

They had a family photo session while we were in Chicago visiting. We shot on the grounds where "My Best Friend's Wedding" was filmed. A great spot for photos. I was most excited about a hill flooding in sunlight ... that really could have been anywhere actually. It was a good sunlight day! And I always love photographing these hilarious girls.

And Uncle Mike looking for some attention ;-)

Gift Cards are here!

2008-10-16T16:00:00.003-05:00

Just in time for the holidays...
available with L Photographie Portraits and L Photographie Weddings.

Send a surprise to the happy couple, a friend, or family member to purchase extra prints, special products, or a photo session.

Gift Cards are available in any amount starting at $50.
Your digital gift card will be emailed to you for printing and wrapping.

Contact Liz for Wedding gift cards and Kristie for Portrait gifts.

St. Louis Fashion Week (by liz)

2008-10-10T09:59:00.021-05:00

I've been doing a little reminiscing and it just dawned on me...St. Louis has really come a long way in the last 5 years or so. Does anyone remember what Washington Avenue used to look like? Do you remember when the first loft development was a crazy idea? I mean who would ever live in a boarded up, crime ridden, abandoned downtown with no simple amenities like a grocery store? But turns out it wasn't crazy and they've sold like hotcakes and now the developers are slowly running out of old buildings to make into lofts! Our little city has even been noticed in the culinary arts for some delectable dishes being served up at local restaurants that continue to pop up around town. I hear people say that St. Louis and this hip crowd of city dwellers, foodies & fashionista's are "New York wannabe's", but I really don't see it like that at all. I see St. Louis trying to find it's identity again. Something that was all but lost with the mass exodus to the suburbs. And I really think when it's all said and done, St. Louis is going to be a great mix of cutting edge thinking, creative design and Midwestern values.

Which brings me to one of the latest trendy events to hit St. Louis in the last couple of years...Saint Louis Fashion Week presented by Alive Magazine. I went to go take a few shots last night with Charter Media and ran into the fabulous Pam from Signature Studios. My first chance to shoot a runway was way too fun. I got to get some "behind the scenes" shots by tagging along with Charter Media as they interviewed Alive execs and designers. The designers featured for the night were Humanity for All, miacro and Wrath Arcane. Check out the photos below and don't forget to watch the Fashion Week coverage in Charter On Demand under I Want More!

First a little behind the scenes action as the designers put the finishing touches on their models...

As the show is about to start, show staff pulls the protective coating off of the pristine white runway...

And now Humanity for All...

And miacro...

And last but not least, Wrath Arcane...

After the show I tagged along with Aaron, Emily and the Charter Media team for a few post show interviews and the evening wrap up. Total blast - it felt great to shoot something so dfferent!

Little Elliot (by kristie)

2008-10-08T19:17:00.006-05:00

Look at this precious little girl! I had the pleasure of photographing her while I was in Chicago this past weekend visiting family. Her big, blue eyes were just intoxicating. She's so sweet...

(photographer's favorite... I love this one of Elliot with her Mom!)

Holiday Cards are Here!

2008-10-07T18:42:00.002-05:00

Dare we say... the Holidays are right around the corner.
We are excited to announce our 2008 Holiday Card collection.

5x7 inch folded greeting cards on quality card stock with white envelops. Sold in packs of 22, you can choose from 10 different designs, with photos possible on all four sides.

Click Here to view designs and more information.

Valerie & Bob's wedding day (by liz)

2008-10-04T22:18:00.015-05:00

Oh how I loved this wedding! I was having flash backs left and right to my own wedding. It all started when I realized Val and I had the exact same shoes...and we both splurged on these fabulous little suckers. Oh how I love them. And then we had the same colors...champagne and ivory tea length bridesmaid dresses. Did I mention they have good taste?! They even had a trolly! The only difference was they took the chance on the open air trolley and it turned out to be a beautiful day for it. Everything was gorgeous..enjoy the pics!

First of all...the shoes. The fabulous shoes. I have to find a reason to wear mine again.

Getting ready and on the way to the Jewel Box. I love that Val was perfectly happy to have her hair blow in the wind! Usually pre-wedding most brides are afraid to move for fear of messing with perfection. That was why I personally had an updo and a ton of hairspray.

And a beautiful ceremony with lots of happy tears.

And then off to Forest Park for a few photos and trolley fun. The sun peaked out for us for just a few...

And then off to the Old Post Office downtown for the reception. I hadn't shot there before and it is a truly beautifully rehabbed builidng. I just love what they have been doing with so many of the buildings downtown. We took this first one right in front of the Old Post Office...I think it's so romantic.

You'll see below that they also made their own candied apples for the favors. I'm not sure Bob knew when he was getting into with this whole wedding thing. :) But I am sure that he was the happiest man in the world that day. Congrats guys!

James, Timmy & Daniel (by Kristie)

2008-10-02T21:59:00.008-05:00

Now this was a crew I definitely had to keep up with. (I think Mom was a little nervous that we didn't get a single shot, but I hope she'll see here in her sneak preview we got quite a few!) They are some handsome boys. I did have fun hanging out with them...

I love this one! It makes me crack up every time I look at it...

And these few are for you Jamie J...

Little Eddie (by kristie)

2008-09-29T19:04:00.003-05:00

This little guy is WAY advanced for his age ... of only 2 weeks in these photos! He was alert, looking around, making eye contact with my camera, and EVEN at one point was holding his own bottle. I'm not kidding! I was expecting a 2-week-old "sleeping the whole time" baby and he was ready to play. (I'm guessing he's going to grow to be full of energy like his Mom ;-)

He is a super cutie Mom and Dad. Congrats! I hope you enjoy the sneak peek...

And this one he can blame on his Dad when he gets older! :-)

I've been Tagged (by kristie)

2008-09-24T10:46:00.004-05:00

Real quick... sorry for the delay in the full DSA Walk in the Park photos. I had to escape to Boca Raton for my 'day job' and am here working all week, away from all my photos. I will have them up next week and send out a notice.

So I've been blog "tagged" by my friend Kristen. She has a great baby and design blog going on, so check it out especially if you've got "one in the oven."

Quick simple rules:
- I have to tell 6 quirks about myself.
- And tag 6 other bloggers to do the same.

--
Here we go:
1. I am ADDICTED to chapstick... actually Blistex or Avon's vanilla lip balm. It is all over my house, in my purse, in my camera bag... with me at all times.

2. When shopping for greeting cards I will read every one in the section before choosing. I have even gone to another store if I didn't find a card that I loved. I am strangely serious about giving the right greeting card... which I think scares Mike, my husband, whenever he is card shopping with me :)

3. I am always on the lookout for the perfect day planner. I have never found one that I'm satisfied with. Most are too boring, or ugly designed for my taste, or don't have enough room on Saturday and Sunday for my life. One day I'm just going to create and publish my own.

4. Which brings me to... I love office supplies. Stylish ones that is. I have a really hard time not blowing a ton of money at Office Max, Container Store, etc. (weird place for a girl to have a shopping spree, I know.)

5. I don't mind doing laundry, I HATE putting it away. Maybe if I had a makeover from the St. Louis Closet Company I'd feel different :) ... Maybe.

6. I don't like watermelon. People think I'm strange for this one. I just really don't like it.

My tags go out to the following:
Liz (right here)
And other fellow photographers:
Bunn
Betsy
Jennifer
Tera
Joanna

And, just since this is a photo blog... a quick photo of Mike and I in Venice (my favorite city!) on our trip this past spring. I love that the bird on the left side got my "fly" cue ;-)

DSA "Walk in the Park" at Busch Stadium (by kristie)

2008-09-07T22:44:00.010-05:00

The weather was great and the Cardinal's won today for the Down Syndrome Association's Walk in the Park! Lots of photos to share (with a full gallery of even more coming next weekend), in the meantime here's a preview:

Jessica & Josh (by liz)

2008-09-04T20:55:00.014-05:00

This was just too cool...growing up as a military brat I have a soft spot in my heart for men in uniforms. The bride and groom may actually be overseas by the time I'm writing this. They are being stationed in Japan and planned the wedding during the short window they had before the move. It was a very special day and what they are doing for our country is not only commendable, it is admirable. Most weddings have a few happy tears involved...a father giving away his daughter always tugs at my heart strings, but knowing that both of them would be leaving their families and friends in a few short weeks made this day extra special.

Ok, enough sappy stuff, let's move onto the fun stuff! We took some great photos in Busch Stadium and then headed to Forest Park...check it out!

A few last minute getting ready shots. The bride looked beautiful in her Lazaro gown. I love the motion in the second shot.

And of course the groom looked dashing in his uniform.

Check out these military inspired shoes the bridesmaids wore...

And red and white flowers to match.

I know a photographer that likes to call beautiful things "yummy." I'm going to borrow from her and say that the lighting in the church was certainly yummy! Which is actually rare for churches which usually lack light in general.

And now off to the ballpark. Red seats & red shoes go well together.

Albert swings and it's going...going...

GONE!

Some more fun photos around the park...

And off to Forest Park for just a few more...

And last but not least...if I did this I'm pretty sure I wouldn't be able to walk for days. Congrats you two! Take care of each other over there!

The Proposal Undercover Investigators (by kristie & liz)

2008-08-31T17:51:00.011-05:00

Thursday night we got to have some photo fun! We had the pleasure of secretly covering the engagement of Manoli & Jessica. The entire evening was just so romantic. (Nice work Manoli! And congrats you two!)...

The set up:
Jessica received a letter & a rose before she left the house with her sister. The letter contained clues directing them to the Bread Company...where Liz was waiting patiently to photograph the unsuspecting bride-to-be. Another letter and rose was waiting for her at the bakery counter. I'm pretty sure she was looking around for Manoli, so Liz kept having to duck and hide behind walls, tables, people, you name it. (This undercover deal is more difficult than it looks!)

The girls left for the next stop...The Boathouse in Forest Park where Kristie was setting up the patrons to use as her "cover" for the photos. She actually pretended to take someone else's photo while capturing the girls receiving another letter & rose at the hostess stand.

Final stop...the beautiful gazebo in front of the Muny. Manoli had a friend row her out to the water surrounded gazebo where the groom-to-be was waiting at the top of rose petal covered steps, with romantic music in the air. It was beautiful, and well, absolutely perfect. And of course she said YES!

After we knew it was a "done deal" Manoli's and Jessica's parents, Liz and Kristie came out of hiding from the tall grass. This was so much fun for us...thanks for inviting us be a part of it Manoli. Many congrats you two both and your families!

Now on with the photos:

Jessica & Sam (by kristie)

2008-08-30T14:32:00.005-05:00

Here is a sneak preview for Jessica & Sam. They were so much fun to photograph! We just ran around their backyard the whole time and came up with some silly ideas. And I have a new favorite quote ever... when we were close to being finished with the shoot, Sam says... "Are we really almost done, because I'm starting to enjoy this." That was great :-) Cracked me up. Hope you enjoy the photos:

And these two are for Jessica and Sam! :-)

411 for the Seniors (by kristie)

2008-08-23T13:09:00.008-05:00

A new product for the High School Senior crowd... 411 Cards.
(they may look like business cards, but have nothing to do with "business" ;)

Instead of passing out wallets this year to all of your friends, pass out cards with your contact info to keep in touch Senior year and into college!

Each card is custom designed to fit your style. Below are just a few examples.

Sold in packs of 100. You can find out more under the portraits / pricing tab here.

What a fabulous digital photo gift! (by kristie)

2008-08-18T19:05:00.003-05:00

This is the coolest digital frame I've seen yet... It makes an AWESOME gift for Grandparents (or the digitally challenged). You don't even need a computer or the internet to have it change photos daily for the owner! This little baby hooks into a phone line, and other family and friends can upload photos straight to it. It really does make the perfect Grandparent gift, especially for those out of town. Every day they can wake up to their digital frame with new photos sent from the family. Check it out at www.ceiva.com

Cordes Family (by kristie)

2008-08-13T21:16:00.006-05:00

What beautiful weather we've been having in St. Louis! I feel like my Grandma that I keep talking about it, but come on, it's crazy for August! And we had another beautiful day for this family session.

Which by the way, they have the coolest swing set - well, you can't call it a swing set - coolest playground I have ever seen in a backyard. Right when I pulled in the driveway I actually said out loud to myself... sweeeeeeet!

Little Maggie just turned one and is quick on the move. And her big brother Henry is showing her how it's done. They are so cute and so full of energy... I'm actually not sure how mom and dad keep up. I only had to try for an hour ;)

Hope you enjoy the preview...

Gage (by kristie)

2008-08-11T20:49:00.007-05:00

Some of you may recognize this photo... my favorite baby in a bowl...

WELL, look at him now! It has only been since January... man has he grown! He is such a smiley baby. I had so much fun photographing him again. And I am happy to see he is a Mizzou fan :-)

Jessi & Alan, Hope you enjoy your small preview. There are a ton more to come!

And his "big" cousin came by to say hello... what a cutie with that red hair!

Claire, Kristen & Evan (by kristie)

2008-08-04T20:42:00.008-05:00

I love photographing this family! Has nothing to do with the fact that I've known their mom since 6th grade ;-) They are such cute, fun kids! And Evan plays along like I'm not torturing him, which I appreciate. He even got to see some of my sweet trampoline moves. Ha. Well, they were sweet when I was like 12. Not so much anymore. Enough chatter... on with the photo fun!

and we finish the shoot with cookies... gotta love that!

Amy & Dave (by liz)

2008-08-02T19:35:00.010-05:00

So the first time I met with Amy and Dave we really hit it off. They loved the new website, I love everyone who tells me they love the website, it was a match made in heaven. :) Totally kidding...about everything except the hitting it off part. They were married in the Bahamas and just so happened to be at the same resort where Julie Roberts was shooting a movie. How do I get one of these beach gigs?! I got to see the photos afterwards and it looked beautiful...and they looked beautiful, tanned and relaxed when they got back. I got to shoot the afterparty...which wasn't so shabby either. They had been working for months on building their new house and after changing locations a few times, decided to have the party at their beautiful home. What a great choice it was! As I was driving down the street to their new home I had no idea what to expect...and then suddenly this mansion was upon me. Every choice they made in building was beautiful...I have a photo of it below. It was a pleasure to take photos of the newly married couple in their gorgeous home. Congrats you two!

Julie & Matt (by liz)

2008-08-01T20:01:00.006-05:00

Check out this "extreme engagement" session with Julie & Matt! I love it when I can talk people into being a wee bit crazy...most of my friends have unfortunately learned how to say no to my outlandish requests. So I've moved on to some kind, trusting people that don't know me as well. :) This is the same waterfall we like to use for trash the dress photos. Turns out it makes for some pretty sexy engagement photos too!

Stephanie & Peter at Oliva (by liz)

2008-07-27T13:22:00.010-05:00

A few of you may have read the post I wrote back in March about the opening of Oliva on the Hill by Catering St. Louis. Stephanie and Peter gave me my first chance to shoot there now that all of the beautiful details have fallen into place. And what a wonderful couple they are. So comfortable with each other and both so easy to laugh and smile. When you look below you will see exactly what I mean. Congrats you two!

And for those of you who want a little taste of Napa in St. Louis, here are a few photos of Oliva on the Hill! Holds up to 150 and is a perfect, comfortable space for a small wedding, retirement, birthday or rehearsal dinner. Or as I like to say, it's not "banquety"...yes, it's a new word. :)

Liv (by kristie)

2008-07-20T21:14:00.004-05:00

Holy cow... How cute is this little one! She lives in Florida, but I had the pleasure to photograph her while she and Mom were in St. Louis visiting Grandma. And let me tell you, she has the proudest (and the coolest;) Mom and Grandma around.

Here is a little preview of her session, and her 18x18" gallery collage photo. (a great way to showcase the story of your photo session ... sorry, had to throw in the sales pitch)

Adrienne, She couldn't be cuter. I'm so glad I got to meet her while you were here!

Christy & Dan (by liz)

2008-07-14T20:44:00.006-05:00

Ok, I'm not even going to tell you Christy & Dan's wedding date because I'm horribly embarrassed about how far behind I've gotten with my blogging! This was a very fun wedding party - not the usual beer on the bus...they had flavored vodka. Yum! :) The wedding was at Samuel Church, then we swung by Wash U, the Grand Basin at Forest Park and the ruins at Tower Grove. The reception was at one of my favorite places - the Lemp Grand Hall. It's just so full of history and character. Everything was beautiful - especially the bride and groom. Take a look!

Trevor (by kristie)

2008-07-10T09:14:00.005-05:00

What can I say... He's a cutie! I love those shiny blue eyes.
We battled rain, runny nose and teeth growing pains, but Trevor makes it look like fun. We seriously had to run inside the house twice because it started raining on us in the backyard.

serious determination...

And I think I know who taught him this one... Dad...

Here's my favorite. WWF stuffed-puppy-style.
Probably the funniest thing I've ever seen. Rolling tackle, body throw against the wall, more tackle and a nose bite. Hilarious.

'09 Seniors Rule! (by kristie)

2008-06-30T10:54:00.009-05:00

At least that was probably written on my jeep when I was driving around my Senior year (I won't mention the real year) :)
But seriously, Sarah here Rules! I had a great time Saturday photographing Sarah around the Loop in St. Louis. There are so many great little spots around there, it may just be my new favorite place to take photos. Sarah is one of my Senior Reps this year, so she will be the face of my Senior business cards going out around town.
Thanks Sarah! Hope you enjoy your preview here... This was tough to narrow down, so I've got more than I usually show:

sidenote: one thing I love about taking Senior photos, is playing with some fun photo effects!

my new favorite wall in St. Louis! ...

and we finished up with some waterfall shots. love it!

Proof Print Photo Box (by kristie)

2008-06-27T15:54:00.007-05:00

I am too excited about this Photo Box not to share... And I just found it today!
Check it out - Totally custom designed (which I love doing!) - And will perfectly hold 5x7 prints. So... to my portrait clients... When you order your online gallery of 5x7 proof prints, this photo box will be custom designed for you!

(Image by Design Aglow. Boxes by Finao.)

Bobby (by kristie)

2008-06-22T23:16:00.005-05:00

How cute is this little guy?! We took a stroll around the Missouri Botanical Gardens on a Wednesday night before the Jazz fest started playing. We found all sorts of spots for him to explorer. And... I have to mention that Dad here has the best animal noises I've ever heard. They had Bobby cracking up! And I did my best not to get too many of Dad's face mid-animal :)

Buddy Walk 2008 (by kristie)

2008-06-19T14:37:00.005-05:00

If you've been checking in for the full day of Buddy Walk photos, click here.

Go Green (by kristie)

2008-06-18T10:59:00.005-05:00

I'd like to interrupt this blog for a "green" note (and tote).

Last time I was grocery shopping with my husband, he wanted to grab some of the reusable bags to buy instead of plastic. While I feel bad for saying "not yet" at the time, I was waiting to find a bag that I knew I would carry around proudly - and actually keep using. Well, here it is. With my easily-amused sense of humor, I will laugh every time I go to the grocery store. And it is a true statement. Hopefully it will make someone else laugh and go buy one (or a few) as well!

reusablebags.com
ACME Bags™ - Plastic Bags Blow™ Dual Handled Tote: $9.95

They also have a lot of other cute, modern ones on their site - check out the "shopping bags" area. But I personally find this one the funniest, so I had to have it :)

And if you're still not convinced, scroll through this link.

DSA round 8: Ryan and big sis Reagan (by kristie)

2008-06-16T23:00:00.003-05:00

Last one, but certainly not least! These two were great fun. We got a couple posed shots then headed straight for the playground. Woo hoo! I don't think I've ever seen someone have so much fun swinging, and I am so glad I was there to see it. Ryan is going to grow up to be an entertainer of some sort, as he loves the camera and kept giving me the cutest little looks. Melted my heart for sure.

I had fun with all of my portrait families! Thanks for sharing your family photos with the Down Syndrome Association and helping their advertising and marketing campaigns. You will all get links to your full sessions this week!

DSA round 7: Vivien (by kristie)

2008-06-16T22:55:00.003-05:00

Here is my twirling master, Vivien. After my tiny model on a blanket, Vivien kept me on my toes and off exploring with her around the park... we had fun :)

DSA round 6: Lila (by kristie)

2008-06-16T22:42:00.004-05:00

Sorry for the delay between the DSA portrait posts ... I snuck off to Chicago this past weekend for Father's Day.

Here come the final three from my Sunday session. First up, my tiniest little model, Lila. So precious...

Amy & Joel (by liz)

2008-06-14T10:33:00.014-05:00

I had a really fun day wandering around St. Louis with this couple. They had a small, quick wedding at the Botanical Gardens so we had the opportunity to run around to all kinds of places for photos. We started at Forest Park at the Grand Basin, headed over to the Jewel Box, popped by the World's Fair Pavilion and then off to MoBot for a few more! The ceremony was under a beautiful gazebo surrounded by their family members. Did I mention that it was supposed to pour down rain all day? Dave Murray may have been rooting against us, but the weather gods were definitely on our side that day. We had a few little sprinkles here and there, but it was just enough for that wedding day good luck. After the ceremony we wondered around MoBot for a few more and then headed down to Kiener and the Renaissance Grand for a few final shots. Amy's baby blue converse shoes were totally the hit of the day. I think we heard "love the shoes" as often as "congratulations" as we wandered around town. So congrats you two! PS - love the shoes. :)

Lisa & Brandon in The Knot Magazine (by liz)

2008-06-12T12:42:00.007-05:00

Lisa and Brandon's wedding from last year made it into the most recent issue of The Knot! It's so fun to be published. Again. :) Hey Lisa - I bet you're stoked they chose to print a photo of your favorite shoes huh? Take a look!

DSA round 5: Campbell

2008-06-10T19:30:00.004-05:00

Back to the portrait sessions...
OK - This was a tough one to narrow down! I have so many funny photos of Campbell laughing it is making me smile at my computer. What a cutie!

Buddy Walk in Forest Park (by kristie)

2008-06-08T19:49:00.006-05:00

Today was the annual Buddy Walk for Down Syndrome in Forest Park. It was a super HOT one, but hey, at least it didn't rain! Here is a little preview of the fun... I will post everything from the day on the L Photographie Portrait "client proofing" page (link here) next week, so check back with us. Thanks!

(p.s. More DSA portrait sessions will be up this week too. Four more families to come!)

EJ & Cindy (by liz)

2008-06-06T22:29:00.011-05:00

So the amount of brain power at this wedding was second to none. These two Wash U grads are both scientists (in real life - sounds like something I would have said I wanted to be when I grew up!) I swear I can't remember what they are experimenting with exactly, but I'm pretty sure there are plenty of molecules involved. And there I was taking my "artistic" logicless photos all day! Now, taking photographs does not require a whole lot of brain power, but I do have a unique skill set. And this was a beautiful day to put it to good use. Such a fun wedding party group...at one point the men did the "blue steel" face from Zoolander while the girls shouted out "BAM!" And then I started laughing so hard I missed some good photos. :) Enjoy! Wedding at Washington University Catholic Student Center and reception at Windows on Washington.

DSA round four: Abby & Allison (by kristie)

2008-06-05T23:22:00.004-05:00

Next up... the lovely, lovely Abby and Allison...

DSA round three: Zach and family (by kristie)

2008-06-03T23:24:00.006-05:00

This family is so much fun! (honestly, I can't imagine how mom and dad keep all the sports schedules together! but, I can relate to Mackenzie, as I grew up with four brothers and no sisters. she's a tough little soccer player)

This session FLEW by, as we were all over the place - some quick posed shots, off to pretend the train was running over us (which I personally find HILARIOUS), playing soccer and softball, then crashing in the grass.

I probably was out of breath when I went to meet my next session, hopefully I didn't scare them ;-) wink.

Zach and his family preview:

DSA round two: Catrina (by kristie)

2008-06-03T20:38:00.003-05:00

Here is a preview of the second session with Miss Catrina. She was a little shy at first, but by the end she was whipping out all her fabulous model poses for me :)
Thanks Catrina!