Intuitive Images Photography

A Delicious Exclusive.

2012-03-03T10:11:00.000-08:00

Am I really blogging about food?

Yes I am.

My lovely friend Claire, and her husband Johnny, invited me to Break of Dawn for their monthly chef's dinner. Unfortunately we had no babysitting, so my handsome foodie husband had to sit this one out. But Evonne stepped up and got to be my date for the evening.

(You can read a little more about Break of Dawn here.)

Basically they do only breakfast and lunch, and close at 2pm, serving some really spectacular and unique dishes out of a completely non-assuming strip mall location. They type of place you'd pass on your way to get a new purse at Marshalls. But there it is, a secret little gem, turning out some mind-blowing food and drawing crowds every day of the week. Once a month, Chef Dee Nguyen hosts a single dinner service, with two seatings. It's his opportunity to create on the fly, with a limited and vague menu from which he can play and improvise. We ordered almost everything on the menu for just four of us, and I swear, we could have had more if we just waited a little longer to let the foie gras rest in our full bellies. It was a really special thing to see, and I'm so incredibly glad to have been there. Thanks Claire and Johnny! Now on to the photos...

The incredible Chef Dee Nguyen

Claire, Johnny, Evonne, and me (on a food high)

Some of our menu favorites:

Americanus Egg

Dungeness Crab, Spaghetti Squash, Abalone mushroom, Shallot

Foie

Corn cake, Cilantro, Saba, Mexican Chocolate

Wagyu Pork Belly

Korean Baked Bean, mustard and Kimchi cabbage

Duck Skillet

Taro, Aged Cheddar, Duck Sausage Fried Egg

Lamb Shank

Fenugreek, Beet-Garlic Confit, Sweet Potato, Pinenut

Onyx Rice

Pudding, Mango Creme Brulee, Thai Basil

Sesame

Chocolate, Honey Powder, Speculoos-Tahini Ice Cream

See you next month!!!

Surprise! Let's go outside!

2012-03-02T10:21:00.000-08:00

Last minute surprise March Mini-Sessions!

So many folks are waiting to book a session, but my calendar is getting so full. So this is for those of you who want a quick session for your little ones!

Session includes:

20 minutes for up to four children under age 10

online viewing gallery

cd of 10 edited images

2 5x7 prints

Only 5 spots are available, so act fast! The absolute last day to confirm your spot will be Friday March 9th- all invoices must be paid by then, or your spot will be released to the next family on the list. Session location will be announced to participants once invoices are paid. Location will be in Orange County.

Double the Love.

2012-02-26T15:24:00.000-08:00

I don't usually blog images from a session within hours of the session happening. But these were just too good to hold back.

Thank you Evonne and Ramai for asking me to be the one to help you welcome Satva and Naryan.

I love them already.

But seriously...

2012-02-21T10:33:00.000-08:00

... why do babies smell so good??? :)

Lilly Belle Love.

2012-02-09T23:05:00.000-08:00

Sneak peek from Wendy and Jeff's engagement session at Disneyland!

This is your first look inside the elite LillyBelle railroad car. Look here to learn more about this very special private railroad car we had the amazing opportunity to use.

More images coming soon!

Move!

2012-02-07T09:29:00.000-08:00

Just one little peek at yesterday's incredible Movement session with Nick Williams.

For...

2012-02-04T18:10:00.000-08:00

... Kylene and Eric.

Eyes on the back of my head.

2012-01-24T21:55:00.000-08:00

People ask me all the time what the advantages are of hiring a second photographer for your wedding. Someone to not just assist the main photographer, but to actually shoot and capture images from a second vantage point. I could go into a lengthy explanation about why it's worth the investment to have a second point of view, or about how one person can't possibly be in every spot at once, but I think I'll just let this set of images, of the same part of a ceremony, speak for themselves.

First gorgeous image by my friend, the always incredible Kym of Kym Vitar Photography, second shooting for Intuitive Images Photography. Second image by yours truly.

That glow. {Orange County Maternity Photography}

2012-01-10T09:01:00.000-08:00

You know how they say pregnant women have a "glow"? Yeah, I didn't have that. I was uncomfortable, sick, tired, and all around yuck. With all three.

Dana, on the other hand, looks like a Roman goddess.

She's calm, serene, and she really does glow. It's like love is radiating from her, from the inside out. I hope I did her beauty justice in these images.

Love you, Dana- can't wait to see that little love bug you're growing in there.

New Life.

2012-01-08T22:26:00.000-08:00

I don't have words for this one yet.

I'll write more when I can find more synonyms for the word love.

Just a little peek...

2011-12-21T09:05:00.000-08:00

... at the ever fantastic Laura and Jeremy.

I love when I have an image in mind, and clients just go there with me.

So many more to come.

Commitment.

2011-12-19T20:59:00.000-08:00

It's not often that I ask my clients to trample through fields of thorny bushes, snagging their clothes and skin, causing possible scarring and bleeding.

But when I do.....

It's totally worth it.

Thanks for committing to the image with me, Katey.

I'll send you a package of Band Aids. :)

Candy Canes

2011-12-18T15:26:00.001-08:00

Are yummy.

(I hope you're enjoying my eloquent blog entries as of late.:) )

Somebody waits for you...

2011-12-18T14:19:00.000-08:00

.. kiss her once for me.

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas.

Just Like Mommy. {Lifestyle Portraits}

2011-12-07T10:52:00.000-08:00

My mother was the making of me.
~ Thomas Alva Edison

The trouble with muses....

2011-12-07T08:57:00.000-08:00

... is that they never stop inspiring you.

Okay, I guess that's not necessarily trouble.

Shine.

2011-12-06T13:55:00.001-08:00

What's that? Three blog posts in one week? What is happening? :)

I just wanted to take a second to say for all the interwebs to see... I love my family. I am so beyond blessed to have a partner who works hard and does so much for our children. Kids who are funny and smart and loving. A home that, while we've outgrown it, meets the necessities- keeps us warm, safe, and protected. My hubs, Ivan, is on a new project at work and travels at least one full week out of the month. It's difficult to be without him for that amount of time, but it's worth it financially and in knowing that his career is secure and stable. Our kids are young, and I don't have any help. It's just me and three kids, including two little rambunctious boys who think the word 'No' is a direct challenge. This business of mine has taken off in ways that I can't even believe. It's provided so much for my family- even beyond what we need. I know how lucky I am that there are so many people who want to trust me to do this for them. I don't take it for granted. Every session I do feels like an honor. That's the truth. But with Ivan being gone so much, my business thriving as it is, and my kids refusing to stop growing and eating (ha!), I've been struggling to get it all done.

I am so grateful to those of you who understand that this business of mine is personal to me. It's not Walmart. You don't get to just pick something off a shelf and take it home. It's long hours of me sitting in front of a computer, trying to edit just a few more photos while my kids are waiting for lunch. It's storing the beautiful new packaging under the dining room table because I don't have my own studio yet. It's receiving dozens of emails a day that need and deserve replies, and me doing my best to reply to six or seven of them in between washing dishes and picking up my 7 year old from school. I work on every single image that you receive. It's a labor of love, not commerce. The photo of your little girl tilting her head to the side? I spent real time making sure the color was corrected, resizing, sharpening, smoothing skin, making sure you got not just the visual but the emotion from the shine in her eyes.

I know it's the holidays. I know you want to share these images that we've created together. But when you're growing impatient, please take a second and remember that I'm doing the same things you are- consoling sick toddlers, waking up at 3am to give them medicine and trying to get them back to sleep, making three meals a day for them, cleaning up after those meals, doing laundry, changing diapers, trying to pottytrain a stubborn three year old, trying to get grocery and Christmas shopping done, helping a gifted seven year old with math that already eludes me, missing my partner and feeling alone. There's a reason why you chose me. Why my style of photography is what it is. I'm a mom. I see the world through the eyes of my children.

Thanks for listening, and don't forget to look for the shine in your own kids' eyes.

Here's a little peek at my little family.

Nighty Night.

2011-12-05T21:39:00.000-08:00

A moment.

2011-12-05T13:38:00.000-08:00

I'm trying to get more images up here on the blog, so I thought I'd share one of my recent favorites. It's been a rough couple of weeks in my household, and many times through the day I need to take a second and just be.

This image of Jaime with her brand new son, Dylan, just radiates peace and tranquility in a way that inspires me to take that deep breath.

Pause.

2011-12-01T21:28:00.000-08:00

The other day when taking my own kiddos out for some photos (the first time I've ever actually done that with my own three) I asked my sister to come along. After we were done, we were driving around the perimeter of the park, and this little arch in the foliage over the road just spoke to me. So, yes, I will admit it. I stopped the car and asked her to get out and hit the spot with her gorgeousness.

Totally worth it. Love you Aunty Sarah!

Holiday Canvas Sale!

2011-11-29T12:11:00.000-08:00

I rarely do promotions, but my lab is having a great sale on canvases right now so I thought I'd pass the love on to you!

Starting right NOW the next three clients (who have already had their session with me) can order a 16x20 Canvas Gallery Wrap at $199! (regular price is $295!)

*This promotion is only good through Friday Dec. 2nd, so hurry!*

This is a fantastic gift option for family members this holiday- or just a great way to deck out your own halls! Ask anyone who has one of these- they are just the best product out there. Frameless, modern, and they come ready to hang.

To be one of the three lucky clients, just send me an email at stephanie@intuitiveimagesphotography.com and let me know which photo from your set you'd like. First two clients to order and pay will get the deal! Happy Holidays!

Some family love.

2011-11-28T17:11:00.000-08:00

Well, I know I am the world's worst blogger. I post images from about one in every 15 to 20 sessions. The ones I post are random, and I really do need to get more consistent, as Facebook just screws with the quality of the image. But here on the blog, you have the opportunity to see photos in all their glory!

The S family are friends of friends, in the swing dance scene, and feel like an extension of my own family. You know, that cousin who moved out of state that you spent that one really awesome summer with, and now email occasionally? It was like a reunion with that person. Familiar, joyful, and nothing but smiles.

Truly, not only are my clients bringing the serious cuteness these days, but they are styling themselves like pro models! I love these guys, their style, their vibe, their joy.

Thanks for a beautiful day at what is quickly becoming one of my favorite locations!

So Very Thankful.

2011-11-04T09:03:00.000-07:00

This year has been incredibly challenging for me, as this business has taken off in ways I couldn't have imagined. I have three small children, and a husband who travels for work, which means my time is limited more than you even know. Trying to run a business, respond to the dozens of emails and inquiries I receive a day, and still give my children the time and attention they deserve has proven to be a balance that I have not yet mastered.

But I will.

I love this job, I love this art, and I am determined to become more efficient to better serve my clients and my family.

To those of you who have stuck with me, and been patient in scheduling and in receiving your products, my heart just fills with love for you. Thank you for your patience, your support, and for letting me into your lives.

As a thank you to you, who have stuck it out and waited patiently, I've decided to do ONE more mini-session day this year! Spots will be on a first come first served basis, and past clients and those who have inquired in the past will be given priority.

There will be only 6 spots available, and this will be my last portrait availability until next year.

The details will be the same as the Fall Minis:

$99 for a 15-20 minute session

2 5x7 professional prints

5 high resolution digital images

with print release

The date will be December 3rd, location to be announced.

To book a spot, please email stephanie@intuitiveimagesphotography.com

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com

I don't even have a title for this one.

2011-09-16T11:51:00.000-07:00

I had a dream. Literally. And in that dream was this photo of Marilyn Monroe:

I wouldn't say I'm a HUGE Marilyn fan. I do love her, I do admire and adore so many of her photos and images. I enjoy her movies. But I don't know much about her, and I certainly don't spend much time thinking about her. That's why this dream was so curious. What was even more curious was that as soon as I woke, I had a flash in my mind of my friend, professional Lindy Hop dancer, Nikki Marvin, wearing her Lindy sneakers while posing as Marilyn. Weird, right? I know. What can I say? Sometimes creativity comes from weird places in the brain.

Lucky for me, Nikki was down for the cause. She threw together a vintage outfit (all purchased at local vintage shopping mecca, Elsewhere Vintage) and spent all day doing her own hair and makeup. Commitment, people. That's why I love this woman.

Here are just a few of our impromptu shoot. Nikki does such an incredible job of capturing not just the look, but the energy and essence of what I love about the original photo. She's casual, but elegant, and even though she spent hours in hair and makeup, she looks like she just rolled out of bed looking like a superstar. I couldn't be more ecstatic.

Thank you so much, Nikki. Love.

2011 Fall Mini Sessions!

2011-09-12T10:31:00.000-07:00

An Elegant Backyard Wedding - Part Two {Santa Ana Wedding Photographer}

2011-09-09T17:18:00.002-07:00

I won't distract you with silly words when the images of these two celebrating their love can speak for themselves. I will say, however, that when the groom's wedding vows include the phrase 'smokin' hot', you know you're in for a good time.

Shawnee and Evan, my wish for you is that the love and support you were given by your family and friends on this day will carry on through your marriage, and that for the rest of your lives, you will look at each other just like this.

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com

An Elegant Backyard Wedding- Part One, the Details {Santa Ana Wedding Photographer}

2011-09-07T10:26:00.000-07:00

When I met with Shawnee, she told me the plan for the day. Evan, her groom, has family that owns three different houses on one block. Not just ANY block, mind you. A historical, beautiful, landmark street in Santa Ana, where every house is different, every house is stunning, and every house is a small piece of history. (not to mention massive, by Orange County terms). Their plan was for the bride and bridesmaids to get ready at one house, have the ceremony at another house, then have the reception at the last house. A progressive wedding day. It sounded epic.

I couldn't have even anticipated the gorgeousness that is these homes. I couldn't have guessed the generosity that it takes for not one, but THREE families to open their homes completely. I couldn't have even imagined how loving, supportive, and surrounded by joy this day was to be. But it was all this, and more.

Here's the first look at some of the wonderful details that helped make this day so special for Shawnee and Evan.

Hair & Make-Up: Tami Ball; Mane Moves & Body Works

Cake: Ginger Amalong

Flowers: Erica; Albertsons - Irvine Blvd

Tuxedos: Friar Tux

Wedding gown and Bridemaid Dresses: David's Bridal

Linens: Anar Party Rental

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com

Housekeeping

2011-09-07T10:01:00.000-07:00

Okay, first thing's first. I'm changing up my workflow a bit, and hopefully it will have some great results for my clients. Admittedly, my turnaround time has been slow at times, and I'm doing my best to get your images edited and in your hands faster and faster. Software, scheduling, and internal admin stuff will all be re-vamped, and re-adjusted. Part of that new process is blogging weddings within two weeks of the event. I appreciate all of you who chose me, all of you who want me to be the one to capture the images of your life, your family, your love. I take that responsibility personally, and I feel that I can now deliver to you the products and service that you deserve.

Thanks for choosing me.

Steph

Shawnee and Evan {Sneak Peek}

2011-09-05T15:58:00.000-07:00

Shawnee and Evan, thank you so much for asking me to be a small part of your incredible day. Here's your sneak peek- many more to come from your beautiful wedding!

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com

A New Little Life- Kaiser Permanente Orange County

2011-08-30T11:33:00.000-07:00

This might be the hardest post for me to articulate. I don't really know how to sum up the impact this woman has had on me and my life, but I'll do my best.

Claire and I went to high school together. We were in drama together, we shared friends, a love of the arts. I wouldn't say we were best friends then (I was crazy jealous when she had to kiss my boyfriend in a play). A few years after high school, we reconnected (remember myspace? Yeah). And, lucky for me, I haven't let her go since.

We've both become wives and mothers, and we both keep one foot in the creative field. But I can honestly say that in my own daily life, when I am having a hard day, or when I think about what kind of mother or friend I aspire to be, I think of her. Her patience is unlimited. Her kindness is unrelenting. Her love for her family and her friends is overwhelming in the most humbling way. She was meant to be a mother, and last night she became a mother of two.

Claire and Johnny are beautiful, loving parents to Israel. (My favorite little model, and handsome dark-haired star). When they found out they were expecting again, they decided to keep this baby's name a secret. Friends guessed, moms interrogated, but they held out. Michael, Jackson, E.O.... all very viable options. I suppose I should explain the connection. When Johnny was little, and his mother was expecting her second son, she asked Johnny what they should name him.

'Michael Jackson', was his reply. Of course.

So Michael it was. (Johnny's brother, Mikey Pedroza) Well, Johnny and Claire's first son Israel has been obsessed with Captain E.O. since time began. even before Disneyland brought it back to the theater, Claire would let him watch it online, and the little guy would dance and sing just like the gloved one.

So, when baby #2 was on his way, they continued the family tradition and asked Izzy what they should name him.

'Captain E.O,' was his reply. Of course.

So yesterday, when I got the text that Claire was on her way to the hospital, I couldn't help but ponder this new child's name. To my surprise, when I arrived in the waiting room, Claire's sisters informed me that it was Michael Jackson's birthday. Of course it was. We should have guessed.

After hugs in the waiting room, and a few quick photos, I went in to see Claire. The woman defines strength. And Johnny was so supportive and gentle- caressing her hair, holding her hand. The epitome of the word partner.

Her first labor was quick, so we knew the new one would be arriving quickly. He didn't disappoint. After two and a half hours in the hospital, Xavier Leandro Pedroza made his entrance. With one hand by his face, and legs as strong as can be. His little boy voice filled the room, and we were all blessed.

Congratulations to Claire, Johnny, Israel, and your extended families. I will never forget what an honor it was to be a witness to this moment.

(For best viewing, choose the fullscreen option.)

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com

I do believe.....

2011-07-11T11:37:00.000-07:00

... it's Summertime.

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com

Overlays 101

2011-07-05T17:57:00.000-07:00

By popular demand, here's a little tutorial on overlays- what they do, and a couple of free ones from me to you.

Overlays are basically just images with abstract shapes and colors that you can apply to an image to create a certain effect. In Photoshop CS, Elements, or whatever layering software you use, just select and copy the overlay, paste it on top of the photo you want to apply it to, and change that layer to 'overlay', 'soft light', or 'multiply'. You can change that layer to anything you want, actually, but the best effects are generally achieved through those three layer types. Then just drop the opacity to your desired look, and erase, smudge, or mask it off the sections you don't want it on. Easy peasy! You can use overlays with lots of texture, with warm colors, with different light patterns to achieve different lighting effects. Some of my favorites are by Florabella and Kaleidescope, but you can certainly make your own!

Here's a little subtle before and after using the Sunburst overlay:

and here's the overlay image itself: (feel free to download this image from this link, or you can get three free overlays from the link below)

My 3 free bokeh overlays are here:

http://www.mediafire.com/?n9c4e2tc79zwe

rock em out, and show me what you come up with!

xoxo,

Stephanie

Erika and Mark {Wed}

2011-06-30T12:17:00.000-07:00

So, there's this girl. She models.

I started seeing her images on the facebook pages of the photographer's groups I've been involved with.

And from the first image I saw, I thought.. Yeah. She can model.

There's just something about her. Some models just want to get attention. Some might even be beautiful. And then there are the rare few who just emit a light from within.

Erika is one of those few.

Now, I hadn't shot with her, I hadn't even met her in person. So, when she informed me that she bought one of my Groupon portrait sessions, I was so incredibly honored! And so excited to finally get her in front of my camera.

She later informed me that her session would be her engagement session, and that she and her fiance, Mark, actually knew of me through my ties with the swing dancers over at Atomic Ballroom! How incredible!

Must be fate, I thought. :)

So, we went to Old Towne Orange and shot some beautiful images of Erika and Mark for their engagement, some of which can be seen on their wedding website, http://www.erikaandmark.com/. Take a moment and browse around there- you can also see the actual video of Mark's proposal, at our very own Atomic Ballroom in Irvine!

So, after our engagement session, Erika and Mark graciously asked me to shoot their wedding. Now, I consider myself a portrait photographer first, so I am always so blessed and grateful when a couple ask me to be a part of that big day. But for these two to ask me, I was even more blessed. When a couple knows so many photographers, it's a complete honor to be the one they choose. It's sort of like being chosen first at dodgeball in fourth grade. And I take that honor as seriously now as I did back then. (No, really. I took it SERIOUSLY.)

So, without further ado, here is a little look into the beautiful wedding of Erika and Mark Schwartz.

Congratulations Erika and Mark!!!

May you dance every dance hand in hand.

xoxoxo

Stephanie

Orange County Headshots

2011-06-21T12:19:00.000-07:00

I rarely do a headshot special, but I've had so many requests as of late, I thought I'd hook all you showbizzers up! So here's the low down:

2011 Headshot special

$200 includes:

up to two hours on location, 4 different looks

All images in low resolution for online posting and sharing

3 images of your choice in high resolution with a limited commercial license and print release for your own printing purposes (glossies!!!)

PLUS

You can purchase the high resolution disc with all your high res images for just $75!

(normally $100)

So if you're a dancer, actor, model, singer, musician, business owner, or just want great looking professional images to spruce up your online site, jump on it! This offer is only valid through the end of 2011!

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com

Forever and a Day

2011-06-17T09:52:00.000-07:00

A very happy anniversary to these two lovebirds! Enjoy your European vacation~ here's to another 40!

Dreams.

2011-06-03T09:15:00.000-07:00

There are days when I wake up, and I know I've dreamed.

I feel as though I have been standing in a flowery field all night, the scent of grass still in my bedroom air.

I wish somehow I could photograph my dreams, to tuck them away in an album, to visit when I need inspiration.

I suppose this will have to do for now.

Shooting for Hope

2011-04-29T08:37:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you know I have become close with some of the world's best Swing Dancers- International Lindy Hop champions Nikki and Shesha Marvin, and many other of their stellar swing star friends. A few years ago, Shesha started a charity event benefitting the City of Hope cancer center. The event was a brilliant concept- a 24-hour Dance-a-Thon. Move over, Dick Clark! The event is held yearly, and has raised over $33k.

This event hits close to home for me, as cancer is rampant in my family, and one of the most amazing Uncles I ever had was a longtime patient of City of Hope. My Uncle Willybill, son of my grandfather's brother Welcome Albao, flew from Kauai to City of Hope for months and months before he lost his battle. He was too young when we lost him, and I remember how devastated we all were that someone so sweet and kind could be gone. Unfortunately, he's not the only special person I've lost to this disease, and certainly not the only person in my life who's had to face it head on.

This year's Dance A Thon will take place November 12th and 13th (from noon to noon). And until then, I'm offering you a special deal.

If you donate $50 or more through this link- http://www.danceathon.org/donate/?loadbody=mip&mid=1008, I will give you $75 off your regular price photosession. So, not only are you doing something good, supporting an important cause, making a 100% tax deductible donation, but you're also getting an amazing deal. Feel free to dedicate your donation to someone in your life who's fought this battle.

(About 1/10th of the family at the 1983 family reunion on Kauai- Uncle Willybill is front row, second from left)

I really truly hope you'll take advantage of this, and help us support an organization that really does offer hope to the hopeless.

2012 Wedding Rate Change

2011-04-25T16:02:00.000-07:00

Heads up, boys and girls! I'm pretty booked for weddings through October- I'll only be accepting a few more weddings this year!

On January 1, 2012, wedding pricing will be going up. For 2012 weddings, I will honor this year's pricing for events that book and confirm by June 1st, 2011!

So book now to secure this year's rates!

By popular demand.....

2011-04-18T20:47:00.000-07:00

A beautiful May Day in the park- and the option of horseback riding!

Session is open for portraits of babies, children, maternity, and families up to 4 people, horseback riding at additional cost.

Email for details: stephanie@intuitiveimagesphotography.com

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com

The Santos Boys

2011-04-14T15:54:00.000-07:00

First of all, I gotta say- I am so lucky that so many of my friends are having kids at the same time! Second of all, I am doubly blessed that they would want to entrust me with taking photos of their new little families.

Lucinda was part of my main circle of buddies in high school. Even though she was a cheerleader, I loved her. :) After high school, like many of my friends, we lost touch. She grew up, got married, and had a little boy. We found each other again, when she was pregnant with her second, both of us mommies, both of us (sort of) grown. I'm so grateful that she asked me to photograph her ADORABLE little boys. Of course, we stayed in San Pedro, hitting up the old Korean Bell. Stomping grounds, for sure. After our session, I'm pretty sure I spied my first beer can from 1995 back behind the bunkers.

San Pedro is laced with memories for both of us, and it's the only place I could ever legitimately call home. Thank you, Lucinda, for letting me be a part of this, and here's to you and your family making new memories in the neighborhood we shared.

Ozark Minis- The Details!!!

2011-03-25T14:45:00.000-07:00

This July, I'll have the honor of watching my little sister, Beth, walk down the aisle to marry her true love, Clayton. It makes me so proud and so sentimental to see her grow into a beautiful woman with a family and a career. It truly feels like just yesterday we were sharing a bedroom with green carpet and pink unicorns on the wall.

What does this mean for you, you ask??

It means I'm havin a good old fashioned Ozark homecoming! I haven't been back in the old stomping grounds for YEARS, but I couldn't be more excited to see some of my junior high and high school friends, who have all stayed in my heart. And even better than just a regular old reunion? I'll have the honor of photographing my friends, their family, their children. When I say it's an honor, I hope you know how true that is.

Here's the details:

Thursday, July 28th, and possibly Friday July 29th, I'll be holding Mini-Sessions in the Springfield area. (One rural location, possibly one urban location if interest is high).

A $125 session fee will get you: a 30-45 minute photosession with yours truly, on location (tba), for up to four people. I'll have props, accessories, and fun things to play with. You'll get a private online viewing gallery, a cd of your 10 best edited images (web-ready), and TWO prints of your choice up to size 8x10. Sessions must be paid in advance to reserve your spot. If you need some help styling or getting ready, I'm more than happy to help and walk you through it.

***UPDATE!*** DEADLINE for booking your session is May 14th! Book now or miss out!

Sessions are now available for booking. To grab your spot before they're all gone, shoot me an email at stephanie@intuitiveimagesphotography.com

Can't wait to see ya, friends. :)

Baby Tess

2011-03-21T09:39:00.000-07:00

Oh, that's right- I have a blog!!

Sorry folks- it's been B.A.N.A.N.A.S. here at IIP.

Do you know anyone without children who you just KNOW will be an amazing parent?

That's my friend Alyssa.

My high school friend and volleyball team co-member (I believe we were both First Team all League, right Lyss? :)), we lost touch after high school. But she was always one of those girls who I just knew would be a fantastic mom one day. Calm, cool, and collected, nothing phased the girl. Tough as nails, but sweet as pie.

So when I found out she was pregnant, I could not have been happier for her. She's the kind of woman we need having children.

She and her husband Anthony welcomed their little bundle of sweetness, Tess. She's petite, but feisty, and loves to snuggle.

Thanks, Alyssa, for letting me capture this amazing time in your life. Can't wait for her six month session!! (or sooner- I can just move in and photograph her all day :) )

xoxo,
Stephanie

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com

March Minis!!!

2011-02-26T15:45:00.000-08:00

***UPDATE- MARCH MINIS ARE ALL FULL!!! THANK YOU!!! ***

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com

B and A Day!

2011-02-08T12:09:00.000-08:00

One of the more dramatic Before and Afters. Not because of the subjects- they were amazing, and looked fantastic. But because the weather conditions were not on my side.

On the morning of this family session, there was a thick moody layer of fog blanketing the marina area. Well, blanketing most of Southern California, really. And, while it's great for diffusing light on your subject's face, it's terrible for getting attractive surroundings.

This image was the very first shot of the session, and I knew a little punch was all it needed. This was edited using nothing but level layers and sharpening.

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com/

Here's a little peek at the rest of their session:

Impromptu Mini Sessions!

2011-01-29T18:54:00.000-08:00

I haven't done a location Mini-Session Day in a while, and I've had some requests, so let's do it!

Ready, set, go!

Saturday, February 12th, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

For just $99, you get 20-30 minutes shooting for up to three people (big or little:) ), an online viewing gallery, up to 10 edited images on cd sized for online sharing, and a $20 print credit!!

Can't go wrong!

Space is gonna go FAST, so if you want in, email me ASAP!

Location will be emailed to you at time of booking.

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com

B and A Day!

2011-01-25T21:04:00.000-08:00

Has it really been this long since I did a B and A? Wow, guess so. Happy New Year! :D

This is a shot from yesterday's impromptu photoshoot with the amazing Megan Bibbo, highlighting the hair accessories from my new line, A Vintage Vibe.

The image on the left is straight out of the camera. Pretty darn good, if you ask me. (Thanks to Megan's killer modeling skills!)

I used Florabella's Sharpen/Defog action on the whole image, then added a tiny bit of Gaussian Blur and erased it on her face, leg, and torso. Paint The Moon's All in One action retouched the skin and popped the eyes. A little warming filter, and we were done!

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com/

Behind the Ballroom

2011-01-22T09:32:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, Intuitive Images will be opening a new studio space inside Atomic Ballroom in Placentia. The Placentia location is the second Orange County location for Atomic, with it's first flagship location still rockin over in Irvine. Both locations are owned and operated by Shesha and Nikki Marvin, both internationally acclaimed competitive dancers and teachers, and pillars of the dance community here in Orange County. They've been my clients, my friends, now my partners in business and new opportunities, and it's time I introduce you to them.

Here's a little Q and A with the taller half of the First Couple of Atomic, Shesha Marvin.

1. When and how did you get started dancing, and what's your background with the late Frankie Manning (one of the founding fathers of Lindy Hop)?

I started dancing when I was dragged out onto the dance floor at Disneyland one Saturday night Jan 1996. A few months later I took my 1st class from Frankie Manning and I was instantly converted from a spazzy swing kid to a lindy hopper with a clue.

2. How did you meet your beautiful wife, Nikki, and when did you two acquire The Atomic Ballroom?

I met my beautiful wife Nikki at dance class in the summer of love 2003. She was my student. We were married in 2006 and purchased ATOMIC Ballroom in 2008.

3. If you could be born in another decade, which would it be, and why?

I'm happy with my decade. If I had to play your game I would choose the 1920s so that I could see the true progression of charleston to lindy hop.

4. What drove you to open the second location for Atomic in Placentia?

Opportunity knocks and you open the door. I've known it was the next step for me for over 2 years.

5. What class or program is most exciting for you at the new Placentia location?

Argentine tango is ON! I've been trying to get into this personally for years. Friday nights, me, and Tango.

(The Argentine Tango series will be kicked off on Friday Jan. 28th - click here for more info on a stellar night of Tango, including basics, musicality, and workshops.)

6. Favorite thing to eat at home, and favorite thing to order at a restaurant?

Spaghetti and Spaghetti. Why fight it.

7. Do you hope your beautiful daughter, Anjali, will take over the Atomic empire when she gets older?

Anjali might just hate dancing. We could sell it and retire, who knows. I think of the ATOMIC empire as a small stepping stone in my life.

8. What are your hopes for the future of social dancing?

I need to keep pushing my basics and fight for more freedom.

9. You're somewhat infamous for your 101 Hat Tricks. Any plans to teach others via class or workshop?

Teaching hat tricks to geeks has been a long standing activity for me. I'm sure I will continue as requested.

(Here's a little taste of Shesha's Hat Trick Magnificence)

10. What would you say to someone who wants to get into social dancing, but has no experience?

I can't imagine living a life without social dancing. It fulfills so many human needs at once while also being fun. Any hopeless, clueless dancer can achieve competency starting at any age.

Thanks Shesha!

For more info about any classes Atomic offers, visit http://atomicballroom.com/ , and look for more articles in the Behind the Ballroom series, as I introduce you to more of the friends of Intuitive Images.

~Steph

Be there or be square.

2011-01-15T08:01:00.000-08:00

Introducing.....

... Vintage Valentine Pin-Up Mini-Sessions! ONE DAY ONLY!

Grab a spot on January 29th, and give your love a special and unique gift- Pin Up photos of YOU! Session fee includes hair and makeup styling by the great Claire Pedroza (check out the Pin-Up Gallery on my website to see other PinUp sessions with her amazing work). Only a few sessions are available, so if you're thinking about it, book your session now!

2011, a Renaissance.

2011-01-07T20:23:00.000-08:00

New year, new beginnings, new friends, new HOME.

Intuitive Images Photography will have a new home at Atomic Ballroom, Placentia! The new studio will be set up in-house, and available for any studio portrait sessions- family, baby, even Pin-Ups! Not only will we have a great space, and be more accessible for studio portraits, but we'll be building a partnership that will allow us to give you a full and complete experience- from wedding photography and wedding first dance packages to portrait specials for Atomic members. I'll also be there covering the Strutter's Ball in it's brand new home, every Wednesday!

Once set up, the studio space will be available for photographers to rent hourly as well. So, if you're interested in anything from ballroom dancing lessons to studio rental to a pin-up portrait session, we can help you out!

I'm incredibly excited about the new partnership, and I hope you are too!

Here's a little glimpse at the amazing dance floor area.. :)

Can't wait to see you all there!!!

~Stephanie

Round and Round.

2010-12-09T10:19:00.000-08:00

I had an INCREDIBLE session at Disneyland the other day with one of my besties, Claire, and her family. I'll blog more images from that session later. But for now, I just wanted to share this one.

When I got my first DSLR, I spent a LOT of time shooting at Disneyland. A LOT. It really helped me hone my skills and define my eye. So it holds a special place in my heart, not only because of the memories it holds for me as a child, or the fun I have there with my own children now, but because it helped me find this passion. So it was a special treat to shoot Claire's family there- because she has been so instrumental in allowing me to do this as well. She always lets me experiment and play, and I've learned so much with her support.

Here's a shot of the Mad Hatter's Tea Party ride (aka the Teacups) on a long exposure.

A personal touch.

2010-12-04T14:10:00.000-08:00

I seriously LOOOVE when clients incorporate personal family items into their sessions with their kids! What better way to tie in past generations to this new life?

This is Mr. R, happily tucked into his grandfather's letterman jacket. I'm sure his grandfather will be so proud to have this image, a great representation of just a couple of his life's great accomplishments. :)

Diamonds in the rough. Sometimes, very rough.

2010-12-03T13:46:00.000-08:00

It's true. They're not all gems, folks.

There are so many reasons why a photograph may not work. Maybe the client is uncomfortable or self conscious, maybe what they are wearing isn't working with the background, maybe I'm even off my game and the creative juices just aren't flowing. In fact, it's not uncommon for the first few shots of a session to be unusable. 'Slipper Shots' I call them.

You know how in the 50's, men would come home from a hard day's work in the office, and their little wife, in makeup and heels, would fetch their slippers? Or, was that the Golden Retreiver? I don't know- I've only seen it on old sitcom re-runs. Anyway- the slippers were always this transitional item- sort of symbolic of going from the stiff and respectable 'Work' image to the comfortable, relaxed, 'Home' image. So, sometimes it takes a few 'Slippers' to get into the groove. A forced smile, a stiff hand, a deer-in-headlights look. It's understandable. And kids tend to let go of those insecurities or ideas of forcing a look much easier. Honestly, I have more trouble with adult men! It's normal!

So don't worry if you're feeling awkward when we start out- I'll try to help you relax. (within reason, people. I'm not going to sing the ENTIRE sing library of Yo Gabba Gabba. ..... Okay, I might.) But once you can take a deep breath and just forget about everything else, we'll get some incredible stuff.

And, just for laughs, check out this page of some REALLY awkward photos. Anyone wanna re-create any of these, just to amuse me? Anyone? Okay, fine. :)

http://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/

2010 Available Dates

2010-11-21T19:45:00.000-08:00

Well, my friends, 2010 is quickly coming to an end. I only have the following dates and times available for sessions, so if you're looking at booking a session, please choose from this list. To book your session, please email: stephanie@intuitiveimagesphotography.com and don't delay!!!

**BLUE= Location date

**RED=Studio date

NOVEMBER

~~Sunday 28th- 2pm~~

~~Monday 29th- 3:30pm~~

~~Tuesday 30th- 3:30pm~~

DECEMBER

~~Friday 3rd- 3:30pm~~

Saturday 4th- ~~10am~~, ~~2pm~~

Sunday 5th- 10am, ~~2pm~~, 5pm

Thursday 16th- ~~3:30pm~~

~~Friday 17th- 3:30pm~~

Sunday 19th- 10am, 2pm, 5pm

Wednesday 29th- 3:30pm

Peas in a pod.

2010-11-17T08:36:00.000-08:00

Susan and Mike were supposed to have a great little mini-session on the beach. We talked wardrobe, style, worked out details. And then Southern California decided to have a season. The rainy season. So, the beach was not an option.

We rescheduled, and they chose an amazing little community lake, with beautiful houses on the water, each complete with their own docks and boats. And, for our flexibility and patience, Mother Nature rewarded us with the most amazing weather I could have asked for.

These two have been married for almost five years, but if you had asked me at the end of our session, I would have guessed they were newlyweds. You know how sometimes you see a couple, and you just get it? You see why they fit. Yeah. That's these two. They have never had a professional photo session, not even on their wedding, so they figured it was time. I definitely agreed. :)

Enjoy, Susan and Mike! I hope this is just our first session together. You have some catching up to do in the photo department, and I am most happy to oblige!

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com/

My favorite thing.

2010-11-12T08:24:00.000-08:00

I read this article over on Photofocus, and thought I'd throw my two cents in. Photography is such a personal thing to me, and I feel it has many levels, so to pick my one favorite thing about it is pretty daunting. It's sort of like asking Santa Claus who his favorite child is. :)

But I've had quite a few sessions lately where the parents of small kids have been really focused on getting their kids to 'behave' or 'sit still and smile'. And while I totally get it as a parent, as a photographer, it's just not ideal. My favorite photos are those in which the kids are being themselves- playing, laughing, jumping, being rambunctious. And those usually end up being the parents' favorite as well, not just because it's a great moment in time to be able to capture, but because that's how we KNOW them. We play with them every day, we run and jump with them, we tickle them till they laugh and drool. And when they get older, start talking back, dating, and generally growing up, we can sit on the couch while we wait for them to make curfew and look at those photos and remember how it felt to hug them and swing them around in our arms. We can smell the sweet sweat of their little baby neck, feel their soft little chubby hands holding one of our fingers.

So, while it's not necessarily a one-sentence answer, that is probably my most favorite thing about this, as a business and as an art. It's the ability to freeze something so fleeting and so intimate, and the ability to crack open those emotions and memories every time you see an image.

What's your favorite thing???

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com/

Taking a deep breath.

2010-11-11T10:10:00.000-08:00

My weekends are full! Yes, that's a good thing.

Okay, It's confession time. Prepare yourself.

On top of pouring my heart and soul into photographs for incredible clients, I also have another job. I have three kids. Under seven. (Yes, thank you for your sympathy.) :) My kids are beautiful, intelligent, rambunctious, loving, and mostly all smiles. They're my everything. So fitting editing, marketing, client communications, blogging, shooting, ordering prints, learning, and all the other photography things that exist with a business like this into a schedule already packed with bottles, diapers for two little boys, feeding, helping my 10 month old learn to walk, taking my 6 year old to school (getting all 3 in the car at 8 am is a feat of massive proportions), icing down the goose egg on my two year old's forehead from when he jumped off the couch, washing dishes, doing 3 loads of laundry a day.. well, the list is never-ending. The list of sessions that are 3/4 done in the editing process at this time is... 6. I have six sessions that I am in love with, that I am making finishing them, getting out the cds and prints, and sending virtual hugs to all those patient clients a MAJOR priority this next week. Of course, I also have three photoshoots this weekend as well. :)

On my own facebook page, I've been trying to post something every day that I'm thankful for this month. From the ridiculous to the sincere, it's been helping me really live a more grateful life, day to day. So, when I'm trying to finish editing, the kids are hungry, the hubby is playing Call of Duty and tuning out the world, the laundry needs to be folded and put away.. well, I try to remind myself that soon my silly little kids will be in high school and won't even return my phone calls, that we're lucky to have so many clothes to wash and fold, and that even though they're a little whiny right now, my kids have never gone hungry.

I'm thankful for many things in my personal life, but I'm also thankful for my clients. For people who choose me to document their lives. For people who wait patiently for my laundry to be folded and my dishes to be done to get their cds and prints. I'm thankful to be able to do what I absolutely love.

Hope you enjoyed the sappyness. It doesn't happen often, but when it does.... :)

And just because I hate entries with no photo, here's one of my kiddos.

Thanks for listening. Now back to editing......

When love and beauty collide...

2010-11-08T10:09:00.000-08:00

A beautiful beach, a beautiful sunset, a beautiful bride....

What more could you ask for?

The clouds parted and a warm orange sunset broke over the ocean just before they kissed as man and wife. I don't know who you have coordinating the weather for your wedding, girl, but they came through. ;)

Congratulations to Michelle and Josh (and Alyssa).

May your marriage be as beautiful as your wedding.

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com/

stephanie@intuitiveimagesphotography.com

http://facebook.com/intuitiveimagesphotography

The bee's knees!!!

2010-11-05T08:57:00.000-07:00

Announcing our very first.. PIN-UP SPECIAL!!!

Your loved one won't know what hit 'em this Christmas!! ;)

Limited dates available- so book early!!!

Did I mention- MAKEUP AND HAIR IS INCLUDED?!
;)

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com

stephanie@intuitiveimagesphotography.com

http://facebook.com/intuitiveimagesphotography

Nothing constant but change.

2010-11-01T12:48:00.000-07:00

As the mom of three small kids, I've come to realize that the title of this blog post is more than truth- it's one of the meanings of life. Change is hard for people, myself included. The unknown can be scary, letting go of things we like and love can stress us out. But change is necessary. Necessary for growth, for love, and to be able to be open to the blessings that life has for us.

With all that spiritual life lesson stuff out of the way, I have a small announcement. There are going to be some minor changes around here starting in 2011. I say minor, because they are. They're nothing earth-shattering, but I thought my clients deserve a heads-up rather than a New Year surprise.

These changes are really all about taking control of this business that has grown by leaps and bounds this year. I couldn't have anticipated the amount of work I've been blessed with, nor could I have expected to meet such incredible people and families. Because I value my clients so much, I need to be able to streamline my business to better meet their needs- more efficiently and more specifically. So each of these changes is about becoming more efficient, more available, and more professional for those who love my work and who continue on this journey with me.

So here they are- the policy changes that will be effective starting January 1, 2011.

1. Other than a few family friends and those who have already booked me, I will no longer be shooting weddings or events (NOT including dance events- those will remain). I WILL continue to offer engagement photos, couple photos, and bridal portraits. It's just not my passion. I've realized that my absolute best work is portraits, and it's just too painful for me to do my best at an event, hand over perfectly good images, but know that it's not my best work. Weddings and events carry with them a huge amount of time pressure, stressed people, and things that are WAY beyond my control. I hate feeling like I missed an image of something, a candid opportunity, or anything else that occurs organically at events. I know, I know- it's the inner control freak in me, but I want to be able to be in control (to a degree) of the images I produce. And at weddings, I just can't control so many things. My photographer friends have tried to encourage me to keep shooting them, because of the financial opportunity, but I'll be honest- that's not why I do this. And I am not going to take a large amount of money from a couple, who will ultimately be perfectly satisfied with my work, when I know that it's not my best, and there are other people out there whose passion is wedding photography. If you need a wedding photographer, I know some INCREDIBLE ones (and my standards are high!), so don't hesitate to ask for a referral.

2. The cds. Sessions will now include only web-ready cds, and high resolution print-ready cds will be available for purchase. This one might be hard for you guys. And I get it. So I'll do my best to explain it as much as possible. I spend alot of time editing my portrait images. They are edited with a final product in mind. I want you to be able to display them in a way that we are both proud of. And I've seen some folks get WalMart prints of images that took me hours to create, and they looked awful. Really awful. The same print through my professional lab on professional paper for less than $10 was absolutely beautiful. And it broke my heart to see something I cared about and spent time on look so cheap and worthless. I keep my print prices low for a reason- I want you to take advantage of them and have prints that you are proud to show to people you love. I also want you to be able to share your images online through social media and emails to family- I absolutely understand how important that is. So that's why I'm going to include a web-ready cd with every session. These images will not be suitable for printing. But they will look great online. And they're meant to be shared. If you really, REALLY want to get your own prints somewhere, you can purchase the high-reoslution images on cd separately, which will come with a print-release from Intuitive Images. And if you decide to get your own prints, I hope you have a quick conversation with me about how to get your prints looking their best. I'm more than happy to talk to you about it. So just ask- I want you to be happy, not disappointed! And I can take no responsibility for the print quality of places like WalMart or Target.

3. The number of final edited images you receive will be limited. This one is tough for me. I do this because I love it. I love meeting you guys, spending time with you, taking your photos, and I love editing them. But I can't edit every one. I just can't. And to be honest, not every one deserves to be edited. Especially when photographing kids, who move at the speed of light, I take way more photos than the ones that deserve to be on your wall. Until now, I've been editing and including every photo I love, even if it means 90 images from one session. I've been doing that because I LOVE WHAT I DO! But it's time consuming, and it's just not realistic. You're not going to put 90 photos in an album. But if I give you 10 AMAZING images, you can do a million things with them. That's my intent- to give you only photos that you can't live without.

4. As of right now, my prices won't change. Self-explanatory. There's no need to raise prices just because.

5. There will be a monthly special. Sometimes for families, sometimes for couples, sometimes for newborns, and sometimes for my boudoir line, Intuitive Images {Intimates}. Be a fan on Facebook, and you'll get first notice. :)

Well, that's it for now. I hope you are excited as I am for this holiday season, and for the opportunities that next year will undoubtedly bring. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being a fan of my work, a client, a friend, and part of my world.

xoxo-

Stephanie.

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

And now for something completely different. I mean, awesome.

2010-11-01T08:06:00.000-07:00

This month I'm offering something I've never done before. And I'm hoping lots of people take advantage, cause I don't know if I'll do it again! Ha!

Are you ready for it? Ready?

November is.....

A MONTH OF MINIS!!!

That's right- ALL MONTH LONG you can schedule a mini-session. On location (in Orange County) OR in the studio! They're short, they're sweet, and they're HALF THE PRICE! Mini-Sessions in the month of November will be $125 and will get you 30 minutes of shooting, an online viewing gallery, a cd of your 10 best images, AND a $10 print credit towards any print product, INCLUDING HOLIDAY CARDS!!!!

I honestly don't know how you could pass this up. ;)

Mini Sessions include up to five people, at an approved location of choice, or in the studio, 30 minutes of shooting, a cd of your 10 best images, and a $10 print credit. To receive your photos in time for the holidays, please book your session as early as possible.

to book your session, email stephanie@intuitiveimagesphotography.com

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

B and A Day!

2010-10-19T09:31:00.000-07:00

Haven't done a B and A in so long! Here's a recent shot of my sister, Sarah, taking a photo with her old Canon 35mm. I'm so excited she's getting into photography- she has such an amazing eye. Plus- I get one more person to talk nerdy photo stuff with! Bonus! :)

So for this one, I used a Florabella action- Gypsy from the Luxe collection. I thought it would really work nicely with the red tones in her hair.

I tweaked the layers, turning off the 'Lighten' layer, since it was so bright to begin with. Turned down the warm tone, brought down the Dull Pop layer, darkened a tad, and flattened it.

Then I sharpened the image using MCP's High Definition action. MCP has both a high def sharpening action for full-size images and an action that re-sizes images and sharpens them for the web- both free by the way. I have found that for me, I prefer to run the High Def sharpen action on the full-size image, then run the Web-resizing action, and just turn the sharpening layer off. It seems to be clearer and less grainy when I do it that way.

The results aren't super dramatic, but gives the image just enough 'Ooomph'.

CLICK TO ENLARGE:

P.S.- This was taken at with my 35mm 1.8- which hasn't left my camera since I got it.

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com/

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Current Specials

2010-10-18T16:48:00.000-07:00

Costumed Cuties Mini-Sessions!

Now through October 31st, 30-minute sessions in studio of up to three kids in their Halloween costume!

$75 gets you a session, cd of up to 10 images, and 8 wallet prints!

2010 Print Special

Now through December 31, 2010, prints for all session attendees are buy one, get one free!

(Up to size 8x10, does not apply to specialty print products)

HOLIDAY CARDS!!!

Customed designed Holiday cards- use a photo from our session or a photo of your own!

25 custom designed double sided photo flat holiday cards on luxury paper with envelopes, for $50

or get 50 cards for $85!

(please allow ample time or design, design approval, and delivery! Don't wait too long!)

(and as always, our Referral Bonus Program is also in full effect- refer a friend, and when they complete their session, you receive a $20 print credit of your very own!)

To book any of these specials, please email stephanie@intuitiveimagesphotography.com

Thank you!!!

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

The winds, they are a-changing.

2010-10-12T10:11:00.000-07:00

As Facebook announced changes to its photo hosting applications, we as photographers must adapt and change with it as well. Facebook now allows you not only to upload high resolution images, but also allows anyone and everyone to download those high resolution images as well. For free. Anywhere, anytime, without our knowledge.

This concerns me for a few reasons.

Not for my clients, as I trust them, I respect them, and I include the high resolution images with every session anyway, for their personal print use. I know my clients have nothing but good intentions. My concern is for other people. People who originally would only be able to right-click and save a web-resolution image can now download a large copy of any photo on my (or anyone else's) Facebook page. This is a huge copyright liability. I will be uploading only web-resolution versions from now on, but my clients DO get the high-res images of their own session, and can essentially upload my high res images to their own page. *GULP!*

I have already had to deal with people using my photos to promote their business without my authorization, now I have to be concerned about strangers all over the inter-web saving my highres images, for any unauthorized use? Yikes!!! I have already heard horror stories of photographers who have seen their images plastered in mall kiosks without their consent, images being hijacked and stolen for promotional use, etc etc. This new change makes me very nervous, Facebook.

So here's my solution. It's based on the honor system. From now on, each and every session will include TWO cds. One will contain the high resolution images, with express language stating that they are for personal print use only. The second cd will include web-resolution images. Clients may use these images on their personal sites, blogs, facebook page, etc. The web-resolution images will be much smaller and not able to be printed without being grainy and fuzzy, but will be the correct size and resolution to look great on the web. This new change means a little more work by me, and a little more work from you, my clients. Because I'm basically trusting you. I'm trusting you to not give away my high resolution photos for free to the world.

After all, you paid for those images. They are as much yours as they are mine. And I hope you feel as protective of them as I do.

Thanks.

Stephanie:)

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

The Dance.

2010-09-20T09:53:00.000-07:00

I am such a slacker blogger!!! My apologies. Apparently, the busier I get, the more incredible client sessions I have, the harder it is to just sit down and type. Who knew?! :)

So you remember the Lindy Hoppers, Mikey and Nikki? Well, Nikki and her husband also dance together, and have been on a whirlwind cross-country tour of competitions, exhibits, and workshops. Nikki and Shesha own the Atomic Ballroom in Irvine- Orange County's premiere swing dance location, offering events, dances, lessons, and general awesomeness. Nikki and Shesha are both U.S. and World Champions in different styles and categories, and it has been such a pleasure to watch them do their thing. I'm brand new to the swing dance world, and I gotta tell you- it's UNBELIEVABLE. The style, the grace, the strength, the authenticity to the period. And these guys do it on the highest level. If you EVER have a chance to see them or pay a visit to the Atomic Ballroom, don't hesitate. (P.S.- If you're getting married, this is THE place to come for 'first dance' lessons. You'll KILL it at the reception!)

Nikki and Shesha came totally prepared- that's what I love about sessions with dancers. They prepare for performances down to the smallest detail, so they bring that same preparation to their photoshoot. It makes it so easy! These two know what they're doing, and it shows. Thank you, Nikki and Shesha, for being so incredibly prepared, so incredibly kind, and so incredibly fun to work with. Can't wait to do it again!!!

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com/

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Intent.

2010-09-14T10:17:00.000-07:00

I find it really interesting that the word 'design' is a synonym for the word 'intent'. So many people, especially people involved in the creative arts, seem to believe that happy accidents are a design tactic. They throw every color, pattern, shape, texture, and composition at one space and seem to expect it to look good. These people have never studied art, i'm guessing.

If you look at a Pollock and think, 'I could do that', you may need a few more art classes. If you look at a Dali and think 'this is just a bunch of stuff thrown together', you may want to pick up the museum brochure before you leave. If you watch Baryshnikov leap into the air and think, 'so what- he's just jumping', well, I might personally have to talk to you.

With artists, intent is key. You can have all the passion and drive in the world, but without intent, your work will display a tone of ennui whether you see it or not.

Let's take clothing for an example.

You can put together color combinations and patterns all willy-nilly if you like. 'Hey, this pattern has pink in it, that'll match the pink in THAT one!!!' But what is your intent? Is your intent to come across as a Raggedy Ann doll? Well then mission accomplished.

There are color rules for a reason. There are universal goods and bads. Complementary, secondary, tertiary. Why does the Fibonacci sequence occur so often in nature? And why does using it create a more pleasing composition? If you don't know what a Pantone color chart is, but you make and sell things that work with color, then you are an amateur. Do your homework. Learn the rules. If you don't KNOW the rules, you aren't breaking them, you're just making a mess.

This may sound harsh. But it should be. I'm getting so tired of seeing people who think they want to do something, only to flail about without INTENT.

What does this have to do with me?

Well, I said earlier, intent is key. I try on a daily basis to figure out what the intent is. With many of these dance couples I've been shooting lately, my intent is trifold. 1) To make an image influenced by the authentic period of dance that they represent. 2) To make them look good 3) To make the client happy, both with the process and the results. All the technical things have become secondary, and that's intentional. Refer to number 1. When you see old photos of swing dancers doing their thing in little roadhouses and dives, is your first thought, 'wow, great focus!'? Of course not. In fact, in many of the authentic documentations of this style in that era, there was much that was out of focus. Much that was grainy, improperly exposed, secondhand composition. That's because the photographer's intent was to document, to show the energy and life that these dancers were displaying. (not to mention the technical issues with cameras in dark and sweaty roadhouses)

My business is called 'Intuitive Images'. Even that was highly intentional. My goal, with every image I take, is to rely on my own intuition. When you see my photos, I want you to feel something. To see the emotional connection in a tangible way.

When you act with intention, you may not always hit your mark. You may not always get desired results or convey your intent as clearly as you'd like. But to have intent is to be an artist of a higher form. I'm getting there, I have more to learn, but with everything I present, just know, there is INTENT.

A photo of my daughter on her first day of school, displaying the Fibonacci or 'Golden Spiral':

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Holiday Mini Sessions!!!

2010-09-01T17:52:00.000-07:00

Well, since we now have the studio as an option for portraits, I decided to offer TWO different Mini-Session days! One beach day for those who want a casual California-cool setting, and one studio day for those who want a more traditional and formal feel for their family portraits.

We're doing these in October this year, so you have plenty of time to get your prints and/or cards ordered and mailed. And luckily for us, the beautiful California climate stays beach-worthy long after Halloween!

Not only am I offering two location options, but I'm also offering two package options for each location! There's one basic package that includes the session, an online proofing gallery, and a cd of all your edited images, and there's also a more deluxe package that includes all that PLUS an 8x10 professional print and 25 CUSTOM DESIGNED holiday cards!

Can't wait for these- they're gonna be GORGEOUS. :)

(Beach location will be announced closer to the Session Date.)

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Patrick and Echo....

2010-08-21T08:18:00.000-07:00

These two are so incredible. I've known Echo for a few years now, since we danced Polynesian together. She and Patrick have such a comfortable, loving, and honest bond. I was truly honored they asked me to shoot their wedding. Family is the most important thing to these two, and it's apparent. Their family loves and sustains them, and they were all a big part of this day.

Side note- if you've never been to a Samoan wedding, you are seriously missing out. These guys can PARTY. :)

Thanks you two for letting me be there.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Swingin'.

2010-08-16T18:27:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to catch up here- so bear with me!

So Mikey contacted me to do some dance promo shots. Mikey and his partner, Nikki, have been Lindy Hop partners for a while, and needed some updated shots. Nikki is co-owner of The Atomic Ballroom in Irvine, and she and her husband are deep in the circuit. Nikki and Mikey both teach a variety of dance styles- including wedding first dances- so go look them up if you have ever had the hankerin' to learn. They are so incredible. They also have a group, Hot Club Stomp, which performs at events and functions, can do private instructions, choreography, the list goes on and on... (check Nikki and Mikey's profile pages on that link for more photos from this session!) Anywhooooo, these two rock. Not only are they an award-winning couple, they are both have award-winning personality. And it shows. :)

Can't wait for our next session- I loved every second of this one.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Brand New Babies!

2010-08-09T22:05:00.000-07:00

If you or anyone you know is expecting a new little addition, check out our Baby Steps Program. It captures the entire first year of Baby's life, including a maternity session with Mama! (You know, so the new parents can put the camera away and get some sleep...)

http://intuitiveimagesphotography.com/

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Ahutoru Nui: Te Ao Maohi

2010-08-06T11:49:00.000-07:00

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Ahutoru Nui

2010-08-05T12:03:00.000-07:00

I've been delaying writing this post because.. well, there's just too much to say. Ahutoru Nui is a group of dancers and musicians from Tahiti, under the direction and tutelage of Anthony "Coco" Tirao. They hosted my dad and sister when they traveled there to compete in Tahiti's Heiva, which is the largest, oldest, most respected Tahitian dance and culture competition in the world. Ahutoru Nui is a group that embodies what I love about the Polynesian culture- they are warm, funny, generous, loving, talented people who give of themselves to the fullest. The dance and music just pours out of them, directly from their heart. They traveled here to the United States, and for many of them it was the first time they had ever been off their own island. I had the honor and pleasure of photographing their only Southern California performance at Pearson Park in Anaheim. It was a beautiful exchange of culture and art, and I am so blessed to know them and to be a part of it.

The Dress Rehearsal

Next post: the actual show. :)

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Double the Love

2010-07-20T10:07:00.000-07:00

I've known Lauren since high school. Well, actually I guess I should say we knew each other in high school. We lost touch after she graduated (a year before me) and just recently reconnected through Facebook. She was expecting twins and on bedrest, and let me tell you something. I could not imagine a better mom. She is the most patient, kindhearted, sweet person I think I have ever encountered. And of COURSE she s a teacher. We need more like her. Anyway, I was so excited she allowed me to photograph her beautiful babies. They were born healthy, strong, and around six pounds each! Matthew and Lena are so blessed to have each other (automatic best friends!), such incredible parents, a network of grandmas to help love them, and I am so blessed to have met them.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

LA Shoot This! Craig Park

2010-07-20T08:49:00.000-07:00

So this was my very first Shoot This! event. Not only that, but it was really my very first group event of any sort. If you aren't familiar with this type of event, it's basically a portfolio-building opportunity. The photographers get to try new things, new lenses, work with some professional models, and the models get images for their portfolio. I've had my reservations about this type of forum, but Joelle Leder is tough to argue with. The woman's a force to be reckoned with. So I gave it a try. And I learned many things. MANY things. Not just about photography, not just about the business, but about myself. I discovered some strengths and weaknesses when it comes to shooting. Things that I probably wouldn't have discovered for a long while had it not been for being in this environment. I learned that it can be helpful to see what everyone else is doing, then do the opposite. But most of all, I learned the value in community. It's so intensely gratifying to be able to speak with other professionals and share knowledge and stories and experience back and forth. It makes me better. And it makes my photos better. So thank you to Joelle, who has been paramount in building this family of photographers, this commune of creativity. Our work is all better for it.

Kerry Garrison of Camera Dojo giving a lesson on white balance

:: Sponsored by http://FolioMojo.com/ ::

Event produced by http://JoelleLederPhotography.com/, founder of the Shoot This! Photo Group and LA Shoot This! events.

:: LA Shoot This! Partners ::

~ Canvas on Demand - http://CanvasOnDemand.com/

~ ProPhotoBlogs - http://www.ProPhotoBlogs.com/

~ KISS Wedding Books - http://kissweddingbooks.com/

~ Patty Cakes - http://www.pattys-cakes.com/

~ ShootQ - http://web.shootq.com/

~ JLP Model & Talent

~ JustDaisy Handcrafted Jewelry - (http://www.facebook.com/pages/JustDaisy-Handcrafted-Jewelry/316979452646?ref=ts)

SPEAKER - Kerry Garrison with http://CameraDojo.com/ & OC Photo Club

GROUP LEADERS - Kerry Garrison, Allen Taylor, Derrick Yazzie, Lloyd Graves, Isaac Trotter, Stephanie Albao & Sarah Caperton

FASHION STYLISTS - Rachel Amara, Sharon Kohout & Marissa Pipitone

MAKEUP & HAIR ARTISTS - Michelle Cheng, Julia Cheng, Sheena Rush Roark, Jamie Elise & Reanna Rozunko

MODELS - Rachel Amara (LEAD), Lindsey Cloud, Devon Ligus, Chelsea Tados, Mera Zero, Ashley Rush, Maite Imbert, JK Delapp, Dean Karasinski, Harper Allen & Evan Harney

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Catching up

2010-07-20T08:05:00.001-07:00

Ok, I swear I'm gonna blog for real this time. Cross my heart.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Time out.

2010-07-04T10:16:00.000-07:00

A few thoughts on branding.

I'm not a graphic designer. But there are some ideas here that I've been putting on the back burner for a while now, and it's time to let 'em loose.

First of all, I understand that the idea of branding and marketing eludes some folks. You wanna just do your thing, have fun, and not worry about the business side. But these folks are the ones who, after a year of having their "business" look around and wonder why they aren't successful or aren't reaching their goals. Branding, especially in a creative field such as photography or art, is paramount. It's a matter of how people view you. Do you appear to be some stay at home mom, making little crafts in your basement, or do you come across as a professional in whom they can have confidence? This concept must carry across all aspects of your professional presentation. Do you write entries about your personal life, like sick kids or money trouble, on your business page? UNACCEPTABLE. And even beyond acceptance, it's stupid. How do you expect anyone to want to pay you for your services when you present yourself as a scatterbrained, unprofessional, ADD-having, short-sighted amateur? Truth is, you can't. You can't expect anyone to pay you. Put yourself in your client's shoes. Would you pay someone who behaved in such a manner? Never. So the first point I'm making, I suppose, is that branding is more than just paying someone for a logo. It's about deciding what image you want to reflect, and presenting yourself as that brand, at all times.

The second topic is the logo and actual brand. Now, here's where I might lose some of you. There's a TON of cutesy, curly, pink, precious little logos out there. You know the ones. Little pink ducks holding hands, a little curly cue shaped like a heart, the list goes on and on. But here's the thing. Who are you appealing to? Are six year old schoolgirls going to buy your product? Are you going to present your wedding albums to Hannah Montana? If so, then power to you. Go ahead and make your logo look like a commercial on the Disney channel. If not, then consider this. Appeal to everyone. Men, women, professionals, stay at home moms, international, affluent, middle-class, and blue collar alike. If a woman's husband is embarassed to carry your business card, then perhaps you should re-think your design strategy. Create something unisex. And let it say something about your business. If my business is photography, why would I have a logo of a pink teddy bear? It makes no sense.

The third concept here is simplicity. A graphic designer once told me, "You should be able to draw your logo in the sand with a stick." He was absolutely dead on. This is somewhat self-explanatory. If your logo has so many curls and intricate pictures and designs that you can't replicate it easily, then how are you using it? Is it overwhelming your actual service or product with it's complications, or is it a simple, powerful stamp of who you are?

I'm in no way telling you how to run your own business. I'm simply trying to get you to think about what you do with your audience in mind. After all, when you have a business, you aren't just out to please yourself. It's imperative to think about who your clients are, what they would want, how they would view you. You can't please everyone all of the time, but you can damn sure market yourself and still stay true to who you are.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Nolan is One. And lovin it.

2010-07-01T10:02:00.000-07:00

Nolan has made numerous appearances here, and will continue to be a star player in my portfolio. He is an absolute doll, with eyes that sparkle like you wouldn't believe, and a cute little bow of a mouth that begs for kisses from Mama. Last month, he turned one. I was so honored to photograph his birthday party, which was one heck of a shindig, complete with DJ, Moonbounce, Taco stand, and more! This kid's got one heck of a party precedent to live up to... Here are some shots of that day, as well as some of his One Year Old session in the studio. Both days, he had absolutely no interest in the cake. Go figure! (I, however, had to restrain myself from grabbing the cake with my bare hands both days...) Enjoy these shots, and when you start craving cake, you can blame me.

More after the break

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

LA Shoot This! Event 6.27.10

2010-06-29T13:44:00.000-07:00

Just a preview. Full post to come...

:: Sponsored by http://FolioMojo.com/ ::

Event produced by http://JoelleLederPhotography.com/, founder of the Shoot This! Photo Group and LA Shoot This! events.

:: LA Shoot This! Partners ::
~ Canvas on Demand - http://CanvasOnDemand.com/
~ ProPhotoBlogs - http://www.ProPhotoBlogs.com/
~ KISS Wedding Books - http://kissweddingbooks.com/
~ Patty Cakes - http://www.pattys-cakes.com/
~ ShootQ - http://web.shootq.com/
~ JLP Model & Talent
~ JustDaisy Handcrafted Jewelry - (http://www.facebook.com/pages/JustDaisy-Handcrafted-Jewelry/316979452646?ref=ts)

SPEAKER - Kerry Garrison with http://CameraDojo.com/ & OC Photo Club
GROUP LEADERS - Kerry Garrison, Allen Taylor, Derrick Yazzie, Lloyd Graves, Isaac Trotter, Stephanie Albao & Sarah Caperton

FASHION STYLISTS - Rachel Amara, Sharon Kohout & Marissa Pipitone

MAKEUP & HAIR ARTISTS - Michelle Cheng, Julia Cheng, Sheena Rush Roark, Jamie Elise & Reanna Rozunko

MODELS - Rachel Amara (LEAD), Lindsey Cloud, Devon Ligus, Chelsea Tados, Mera Zero, Ashley Rush, Maite Imbert, JK Delapp, Dean Karasinski, Harper Allen & Evan Harney

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Stu Stu Studio

2010-06-23T10:41:00.000-07:00

Did I mention I have a studio?

Yep. In Fullerton. It's become sort of a photographer's co-op, with people at all levels learning and sharing and growing. It's freaking exciting.

So I met up with some others there last night to learn about studio lighting (since I have never touched a studio light in my life!) and got some quick shots.

The whole studio environment is so new to me, but I do have some quick thoughts about it I wanted to share.

It's all about composition and lighting. Like, ALL about composition and lighting. Because the background is gone, the focus is squarely on your subject. This freaked me out a little bit. I generally like to incorporate the environment and have subjects interact with their surroundings. So, having no surroundings threw me off.

The lighting. Dear God. This shit is even more technical than I had thought. I swear to God, there was a point where Marcus metered in nine different places for one shot. WTF. Nine places. One shot.

So, yeah.

I come from a place where I like to just have my subjects play and relax and be themselves, and here, in this new place, it seems I'm going to have to plan. Hmmmmm. It's a little addicting, having complete control, however. Being able to move lighting, change lighting, move backgrounds.. I can see why photogs enjoy that part of it. Control freaks, pssssshhhh.

Anyway, I'm so new to this, but I am pretty proud of some things I got last night.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Pluggin away.

2010-06-22T13:49:00.000-07:00

Ordered the Ringflash, got a bajillion new business cards in three different styles, got the promotion postcards for the Te Ao Maohi event on July 10th, meeting Joelle and others at the Fullerton studio tonight for some lighting discussions, prepping for Sunday's OC Shoot This event....

Lots going on backstage in the Intuitive Workshop.

Stay tuned.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

By Popular Demand

2010-06-21T13:46:00.000-07:00

Due to the high volume of requests, we are doing our first ever Boudoir Mini-Sessions day!

Perfect chance to use the new studio, and I gotta say, it is a killer deal since it includes makeup artist as well.

Contact me at stephanie@intuitiveimagesphotography.com to book a spot!

http://www.intuitiveimagesphotography.com/

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Ia ora na!!!!

2010-06-20T20:35:00.000-07:00

If you don't know me personally, you don't know that I have an extensive background and history with Polynesian dance. I've danced since I was five, and the roots run deep. A few years ago, I danced for a group that eventually went to Tahiti to compete in the Heiva 2009 (I, of course, wasn't with them, as I had just had another baby!). The Tahitian group that hosted them was Ahutoru Nui. Ahutoru Nui is Tahitian. Real Tahitian. Next month, they will be making their first trip to the U.S. (complete with a trip to Disneyland!) and while here, they will be performing in a one night only exhibition of Tahitian dance and culture.

I'll be photographing the event.

I'll also have a booth there, with products and a special deal for attendees only.

If you're anywhere near Anaheim on July 10th, you won't be disappointed if you choose to spend the evening with us.

Buy Tickets HERE.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

B and A Day

2010-06-18T17:02:00.000-07:00

From a recent boudoir session:

All manual editing: skin smoothing, airbrushing, eye pop adjustment, sharpening, lip color adjustment, add wallpaper texture and vignette.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.