Merry Christmas!

A Very Merry Out of the Ordinary Christmas from The Greene's!
~ Holly, Jim & JD

Rakus Raves

I just wanted to make a shout out to Heather & Chris for their patience and Heather for always having rave reviews. What a wonderful couple and always leave comments along the way. It's a joy to revisit their wedding while processing. Some latest updates for fun!

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Finishing Rakus photo processing, slideshow so after.
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Rocket Man by Elton John
CRAVING: hot tea & ice water with a non-sensitive tooth!
NEEDED A MOMENT: OK... no novacane - I can do this... I think. That was a little weird.
BEST MOMENT: excepting things as they are

A Hot Mess

As in fever.
Wow, finally I feel better. I had some type of cold/flu for over a week and now just starting to recover with antibiotics. So I've been a little slow with postings and updates. Nothing like a heavy-duty sickness to slow ya down. Then add in Windows 7 upgrade and that's a whole 'nother blog entry.
The last wedding was awesome, Andy Pratt rocked the house and it was the first snowfall of the season. Got one shot with the snow falling around the bride & groom.

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Rakus Wedding
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: happy songs
CRAVING: to feel 100% better
NEEDED A MOMENT: hard drives and printers
BEST MOMENT: collecting myself one disc at a time

Perhaps he's hired as a professional dancer?

Ok, either this guy knows a lot of people or he's a wedding crasher. Perhaps he's hired as a professional dancer? In any case I have so many photos of this man dancing it's almost like he's at every wedding. I spoke to him recently at the Corkrey wedding and we chatted and laughed about it. Keep up those moves & I'm guessing I'll see you at another wedding sometime soon! lol...

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Hladik Wedding
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Always by Bon Jovi
CRAVING: to feel better
NEEDED A MOMENT: funky family issues
BEST MOMENT: Seeing JD in day-to-day life and him making me laugh til my stomach hurts

Photo Enhancement of the Month - November

Photo Enhancement of the Month - November
www.outoftheordinary.biz/enhancements.html

Good job JD!

We are so proud of JD for making the best grades ever in all his classes... "Rock On" JD!

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Finishing Klotz wedding
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: All things Beatles
CRAVING: something different to drink
NEEDED A MOMENT: Trying to simply buy a new vehicle (for Jim since the '94 Jeep isn't the greatest right now) - they make it impossible, we've decided to wait another year hopefully, what a waste of our time.
BEST MOMENT: JD doing so well in school

Photo Enhancement of the Month - October

Photo Enhancement of the Month - October's!
www.outoftheordinary.biz/enhancements.html

If I could only be a fly on the... leaf?

I am finishing processing on the Klotz wedding and while doing some artsy versions I noticed I actually caught a fly on a leaf during the ceremony and didn't realize it, what are the chances of that?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY WAYLON!

HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY to my nephew Waylon! We love you! ~Holly, Jim & JD

Pamela's Parasols - Something Cool

I saw these at a wedding recently or something similar, I believe the Rakus wedding possibly?
Anyway, I thought they were the coolest thing and I have been on the hunt for them ever since. I finally found them in a Martha Stewart Weddings Magazine and they are even neater than I realized. They have monograms available and other styles, simple or fancy. I love them! They would be extremely trendy for a Spring wedding! Have fun browsing... http://www.pamelasparasols.com/new/home.html

Common lighting misconceptions

Although I can handle many lighting situations I am amused to hear the opinions of everyone about what lighting is perfect for photos. So here is my own myth/truths from my experiences.

myth: "I'm so excited, the sun is shining so brightly, it will be perfect for photos."
truth: Not really. In fact, solid sun is usually the worst possibility to deal with. But I love the sun for creative shots.

myth: "A cloudy day is a photographers dream."
truth: Depends. If it's one of those days where the sky is hazy, solid white-grey, the answer is no. It creates a high contrast like you would not believe (especially with digital cameras)... then add in a bright white dress and it is bling bright and I can lose detail if I'm not careful with manual settings. If it's one of those days where the sun goes in and out of puffy pretty clouds, then yes, it is a photographers dream come true for lighting (with preference towards the clouds covering the sun temporarily).

myth: "The shade is too dark, isn't it?"
truth: The shade is the best lighting to have! If it is sunny in the background it is easy to lose the background all together by being too bright compared to the shade but this can be helped with manual settings.

myth: "It is so dark in the church and I'm even using my flash!" [referring to their camera]
truth: Unless your internal camera flash can travel across the entire dark area the flash actually makes it worse. Try to hold it steady with the flash off.

myth: "Doesn't other people's flashes mess you up?"
truth: Rarely. Flash away! Once in a great while it will produce too much light at once but I take so many in a row it avoids missing something, plus sometimes, it's really cool to catch another's flash because it creates a neat effect. Red eye happens on it's own with or without other additional flashes, red eye has other causes such as very light colored eyes, teary eyes and/or dark rooms.

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Klotz Wedding, James & Jennifer Engagement photos
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Apologize by One Republic
CRAVING: everything
NEEDED A MOMENT: baby photo, no plans, no transportation, drama & teens
BEST MOMENT: Jim telling me about a Smart car comment online. Someone asked how good they were in the winter snow. Someone wrote: "Forget about driving it in the Northeast snow, first you have to find it!"

A chilly morning sunrise

When you just have to go back; you have to go back. After dropping Jim off at work I saw these awesome views, went home, grabbed my camera, drove back before the foggy moment was over and walah!

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Working on Lesperance wedding. Banowetz Family Photos done. Conway Coffee-Table Album design & sent to print. Finishing Dineen Baptism this week.
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Tequila Sunrise by The Eagles

CRAVING: peace
NEEDED A MOMENT: too many to write
BEST MOMENT: getting a "close enough" sunrise shot I envisioned

I don't understand that it's not understandable

I guess we are never meant to understand everyone and what they do, that's just life. Lately I've been getting some new inquiries and actual bookings where they love my work but don't understand the creative detail or decor photos I take. So let me try to give you a couple reasons why I take them and then maybe you'll understand and want them. If not, I'll still will take them anyway and then you can delete them after you get them. Secretly I think I take decor shots for my own wants and artistic reasons anyway but here are the reasons I found along the way:

1. Ever read or see a wedding magazine? Take a look at the photos inside. Most of them are of detail and decor ideas. If you like those and don't even realize it, you'll probably love your own.


2. I hear most couples say that the reason they hired me was because I take those detail shots and no other photographer they've come across ever takes them.


3. I witness countless times where the bride and groom never even got to see anything because they are so busy visiting and things go so fast they they missed the details and decor, making the entire day a whirlwind. I've even heard of the bride and groom never getting to eat their own cake and the waitstaff takes it away before they even get a chance... but guess what? I probably got a photo of it though.


4. Many, many, many times I get the venues or caterers asking me to take a few photos for them. They ask me to send them some photos of their location site and set-up so they can show how fabulous they are and what they can do for future customers like you. I'm not one to turn down free advertisement - are you?


5. On that same idea, newspapers, magazines and wedding planners also ask to use them, how cool would it be for your wedding to possibly get published someday? And guess what photos they ask for?


6. Lastly, it's just plain cool and trendy. It doesn't hurt in any matter. And if you don't want it or understand my type of work, then I ask, why are you hiring me? No offense to be taken either way, just an honest question that maybe it's not the right fit. I never want to take on work where I can't do what I do best. That's like asking Mozart to not play the piano in the way he did because you don't understand it.

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Finishing Hunt wedding and Conway Coffee Table album design
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Feel Good Inc by Gorillaz
CRAVING: a non-sensitive tooth
NEEDED A MOMENT: it's hard to eat lunch when the waitresses are talking about their friend having bypass surgery, mmm yum, more grease please...
BEST MOMENT: getting off that high horse and letting go

Hibernating

I'm hibernating all this week to get weddings done. Jim is answering all emails and phone calls.

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Nowosielski Wedding
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Adele songs
CRAVING: a really good salad with cranberries like at Mohawk River CC (I still crave the Hanna wedding salad, eh, what was that cheese topping?)
NEEDED A MOMENT: RAIN RAIN RAIN
BEST MOMENT: being with my love most of the day & us being able to see some really cool sculptures by Mike Willig

FAQ: Do you have a foot fetish?

No! Personally I think foot fetishes are a little on the creepy side. I just love shoes and they always photograph artistically well.

Digital Polaroid

So we went to Best Buy today for a special cable of sorts and while Jim searched for that I snooped around in the camera department as usual. I came across a NEW digital Polaroid camera and it all makes complete sense now why it seems suddenly all other Polaroids have somehow vanished from the earth. Everyone keeps asking me why and now I know!

It's called the Polaroid PoGo Instant Mobile Printer and it looks pretty high class for a Polaroid. I may get one next summer and take it on vacation with us. They range around $50 each and the refills range around $15 or less for 30 prints at 2x3in. Just too cool.

It's also another great idea for those that are thinking of doing the guest book as Polaroids. Just buy a couple of them to put on a table with your book and stock up on the refills, then your set. It's always good to have the option of a friend volunteer to man the station and help out for numerous reasons. It also may be cheaper than the large rental machines as another option or at least something to price out the difference. Although you cannot replace the awesome magnet man, this is definitely a cool, hopefully lasting, trend. Visit their website for more info: www.polaroid.com/pogo


Also, thanks out to ALL of the wonderful Birthday wishes that came my way this past week. You are all so sweet and I can't help but be flattered!

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Finishing Belarmino photos, then album choices and slideshow
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Irreplaceable by Beyoncé
CRAVING: a strong alcoholic drink
NEEDED A MOMENT: our third hard drive malfunction, that's why we have extra!
BEST MOMENT: Jim making me crack up in Best Buy over "aliens landing" noise.

Turning 31

Turning 31 on my birthday this past Tuesday was so much different than 30. It means I'm in my thirties, not just 30. And it means I'm in a new age bracket. Who ever decided on making age brackets anyway? Maybe doctors but then everyone else went on board from everything to buying a cell phone to online surveys, what's next shopping for clothes and rides at the fair?

I also entered the latest world of texting this week with a new cell phone and I gotta say I love it but it's one of those things that actually makes me feel old and out-of-date. I had it about 4 years ago but it's already changed so much and I have to be careful because it's amazing how much technology can consume every orbit of time in your surroundings. You add a few new numbers in, change your ringer and write a text message and the next thing ya know it's 2 hours later, wow, so not fair but so much fun.

Jim took me to dinner at my favorite Mexican restaurant El Mexicano in Hudson Falls where they sang me Happy Birthday in Spanish twice, put a real fancy sombrero hat on me and gave me a really neat dessert with a single candle. Jim wanted to take a photo so bad and... I know - a photographer without her camera - can you believe it? Don't worry, I've heard it enough. Anyway, their dinners are to die for and luckily for Saratoga Springs they just opened up another one on Broadway right outside of town. They are still waiting on their liquor license at that location but I still highly recommend them. Not only is their food, drinks and murals fantastic but their customer service is the best around which is really important to me lately.

Here is a photo of me on my birthday at home after dinner with our traditional Mexican hats we use on every occasion.

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Belarmino Wedding
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: I need a miracle by Fragma
CRAVING: to warm up, not used to the cold
NEEDED A MOMENT: JD's inconclusively broken thumb and technology beeps
BEST MOMENT: being able 2 txt Jim at all Xs bc I simply cnt live 1 sec w/out him lol...

A tango twist and jump joke

What a weekend! A tango twist at the Brown wedding and a planned surprise jump at the Passarell wedding were just some of the highlights from the past two days.

The best tango wedding dance I have ever seen to date. I myself have taken ballroom dancing including the tango and was extremely impressed from all my days of seeing so many couples do the tango. Especially given that they were all dressed up and still pulled it off so smoothly (as a surprise for the guests). I see so many weddings that had a great dance down but it's hard to plan for the poof of the dress and rented dress shoes. Take my word, the best first dance wedding tango. Below are a couple photos from their dance.

Then Sunday was so much fun when the groomsmen all planned a prank on a fellow groomsman. They all pretended they were going to jump for the photo, counted to 3, and stayed in place while the very excited groomsman happily jumped alone. It was so comical and well planned. Thanks for the laugh and great pic guys!

Photo Enhancement of the Month - September

Running a little behind in posting still... October's coming soon!
Photo Enhancement of the Month - September 09
www.outoftheordinary.biz/enhancements.html

Why I hate taking staircase photos

OK, so they aren't all bad but who ever first started this trend of photography, well, good riddens. In my opinion, it is not flattering, it gives instant double chins and the line up slowly kills me inside. The exception to this are elongated stone staircases, large spiral ones and wide open fancy ones where you can fit a large group. Also, when you only have a small group of just the bride and groom only or 1-4 people then it works fine, especially at different angles, above or straight-on rather than below. If it is a family tradition I understand and like to match those but it is by no means a new idea and quite overused. And although I can compensate most lighting, depending on how the staircases are, you get too much light in the front and not enough light towards the back and it makes zero sense to me in the flattery category.
The fascination of the staircase has always amazed me so I decided to do some research on it which I found very little on. I'm assuming it comes from back in the day when they had more intricate designs and they put so much more work into the spindles and the carvings. Historically staircases are a beautiful site and I love the huge ones like at the capital buildings in downtown Albany. Overall I give a thumbs down but will still do them upon request as I get with my other pet peeve: the 1970s "put the bouquets on the train" look ... makes me cringe but I will do it no questions asked because I understand that everyone likes different things.

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Belarmino Wedding and spray painting our new gas stove pipe
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: SexyBack by Justin Timberlake
CRAVING: some R&R
NEEDED A MOMENT: AA rechargeable batteries
BEST MOMENT: crawling in bed

Full Circle

You may recall the story I have on my "ordinary us" website page about how my wedding business started and how I link much of it to the Banowetz wedding. Well I had the privilage to capture them once more... plus two. They have too little boys and it was such an amazing experience for me to photograph this new phase of their life. After all this time and all these weddings it was just so neat to see this before and after reality. So much of weddings are fantasy and dreamy; we never really think of it more than that. It made me realize that my business has really come full circle and I am thankful to have such wonderful couples that last thoughout the years. Below is just one photo, more to come...

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Belarmino Wedding
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Fidelity by Regina Spektor
CRAVING: sleep
NEEDED A MOMENT: pushing myself
BEST MOMENT: sweet words from Jim :)

amazingly wonderful scary schedule

If for some reason you talk to or see me outside of doing a wedding and I seem like I've completely lost my mind, it just may be the case. I have at least one thing going on EVERY day of the first two and a half weeks of October, literally. Weddings, engagement and bridal shoots, meetings for bookings for next year and a few family things going on. All in the midst I will be turning 31! Ah, how's that for aging, lol... :)

Anyway, this is not as much as an update as a warning that I simply cannot fit in anymore foliage photoshoots, until possibly November. Remember I also have previous weddings and photoshoots to process during this time too. I really want to do my best for holiday turn-around this year, I'm hoping for better than last year. October, November and December weddings will most likely not be finished until after the new year, this seems to flow the same every year no matter how much I try.

Jim has been awesome at replying to most of my emails and this will probably continue for the rest of the year, as well as setting up meetings, etc.

And to think I planned to send out holiday cards to all my customers - hm... probably not this year.

MY CURRENT PROJECT: 3 weekend weddings & finishing Hans wedding
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Dr. Worm by They Might Be Giants
CRAVING: warmth
NEEDED A MOMENT: feeling overwelmed
BEST MOMENT: Jim & JD making me laugh until my stomach hurt

Joel & Lauren Engagement Session

Wanted to share a recent engagement session of Joel & Lauren. I had so much fun with this naturally charismatic couple! We went to Saratoga Congress Park and was able to use many of the areas. Although it was a really windy day, the wind actually added to the shoot making even more interesting. It's all about working with the surroundings... see more at: www.outoftheordinary.biz/joel_lauren.html

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Hans Wedding and a photo book
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Ain't no Mountain High Enough by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
CRAVING: an iced BK Joe
NEEDED A MOMENT: sigh
BEST MOMENT: sighing

For Sale: Defiant Wood Stove

We've decided to sell our wood stove and replace it to a gas stove model. It will be safer for JD and easier to use for all of us.

It is pick up only and yes, it is heavy so I recommend some helpers! But it would be a great addition for those looking for one or nice for a camp. It is used but still works, a 1975-1988 Model. Newly sealed and has a new thermostat chain/coil. If you know anyone that is interested please let us know. (518) 338-3333.

Here is our listing on Ebay:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Vt-Castings-Defiant-Wood-Parlor-Stove-1975-1988-Model_W0QQitemZ320428686748QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item4a9b09bd9c&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14

They say...

They say, when you can't sleep, just get up. But what do you do when your body is exhausted and your mind isn't or vice versa?

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Hans Wedding
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: At Last by Beyoncé (by Etta James)
CRAVING: to catch up on my website
NEEDED A MOMENT: stove designs
BEST MOMENT: spending the entire day with Jim shopping and having a German dinner :)

Tracking the sun

You'd think because railroad tracks have been one of the most historical backdrops for photographers that I would have tried it years ago or at least in college... but it wasn't until this past Sunday that I finally did! Thanks out to Karilyn for her patience while driving us around in her wedding gown as I gave bad directions the first couple times around! ;)
We also had some fun with the sun... here is a preview or two.

Down a new exciting path

I can finally share some news that is going on in our personal lives. I was holding off on telling everyone until everything was official. Plus when running a professional business it's not always good to share day-by-day emotional feelings that may change on a constant basis.
Last week it was agreed that Jim & I got physical custody of JD, which JD has wanted for the last couple years. It's been an emotional and trying process for us all and we are thankful for how everything turned out. As we take things slow in the new transition we realize our environment will even out and this will be an opportunity for Jim to finally feel complete in his role as a dad.
I'd be lying if I said it didn't effect my work a little between all the past court/lawyer visits, emotional up & downs, and as I adjust to being a full-time stepmom, so thanks to everyone for your support and understanding as we are going through this new and exciting life changing adventure!

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Finishing Conway wedding photo processing (reception)
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Say Hey by Michael Franti
CRAVING: focus
NEEDED A MOMENT: swaying
BEST MOMENT: absorbing information slowing

PicPals ~ Welcome Keri

Just a quick note ~
I am very excited to welcome Keri Hladik as a new addition to PicPals (and she just happens to be a recent bride newlywed I photographed last month too)!

Here are her first two images but look for more in the upcoming weeks.

More than just a photographer

I know you are excited and I know it's hard to wait but please remember, when you hire me, you are also hiring a designer to do the artistic renderings such as color accent, b/w versions, touch-ups, etc. I go over every photo to be sure it is print ready -- the first time around.

By touch-ups I mean acne, mosquito bites, bruises, shave burn, shine/sweat, or other unavoidable things. This takes time and I can only hope you try to understand that I want to do the best work possible. The beauty is that you never notice that you had to have a touch-up done! If for any reason you do NOT want any touch-ups done and do NOT want any artsy versions I can send them as-is unprocessed but will not discount and will not later process the archived images.

Other photographers have different procedures and may not release print ready images or can take a year to process so I don't think 10-14 weeks is unreasonable. To compare me to other photographers is like apples to oranges because I am so different in the process. I do my best to still get your images returned to you in a timely manner. In the end, just as I will probably never understand what your job entails, some things will never be understood by those who do not do this line of work and I ask that you please trust me in mine. I guess that I will never make everyone completely happy and there will be opinions either way but at least I keep my process consistant and that is one thing you can count on.

In the meantime, if you need a couple images for a newspaper or such, I don't mind sending them ahead of time. Please send me a note.

If you are interested further, check my calendar for the latest wedding schedule, this too effects processing time and I apologize if this offends anyone but this is what I do for a living and that is how I was able to do it for you. And yes, someone has complained about this in the past.

I love you all and enjoy what I do. I couldn't ask for better couples so thanks again for your patience!

Announcement for 2010

Out of the Ordinary has decided to focus 100% on wedding, engagement and other bridal photography. Starting January 2010 we are discontinuing coverage of family, senior portraits, children, baptisms, maternity, business, pets, on this day, adult and boudoir sessions until further notice as we plan to build a studio in the next couple years. Our success is growing at such extreme amounts and for that we are thankful. But at this time, it is too difficult a process to rearrange our home continuously for studio purposes and keep our house feeling like a home for Holly, Jim and JD. It is also becoming hard to schedule in these occasions and be able to have a timely turn-around time on all photoshoots.

I have enjoyed capturing couples and individuals throughout their lifetime of changes and once the studio is built we will slowly introduce all occasion photography back in again. Within the next couple months you will see website changes made in regards to this. Until then, I wanted to thank everyone interested in other occasion photography and for understanding as we redirect our focuses.

In the meantime, I have a few photo friends to refer some of this coverage to who do fabulous work. Please contact me and I will refer you the best person for that particular capture.

~Sincerely~ Out of the Ordinary

A new computer

It's amazing how much a new computer can not only pause your life but be so enlightening at the same time. I was starting to suffer with a slow computer and honestly, my computer rocked before but with adding over 40,000 photos on there and any system would slow down. So we revamped everything and got a new system with a new way of working and backing up. Hopefully this will help speed up the processing. Oh but now it shows too many details to fix, lol... jk, it actually makes processing enjoyable again!

Here is a photo from the last wedding, congrats to Mr. & Mrs. Sheldon!

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Conway Wedding and boudoir pics
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Eternal Flame by The Bangels
CRAVING: water
NEEDED A MOMENT: the common cold and learning a new computer all over again
BEST MOMENT: enjoying the new computer

A look at Jewelry...

Jim & I stopped over at Ship Shape to send an international wedding package (which, btw, was the best customer service experience I've had in a long time). Anyway, how does this have to do with jewelry? Well, let me tell you. I walked into Ship Shape and what do I see glimmering from the counter but BEAUTIFUL jewelry. I tell you... I forgot why I was there for a moment as it gleamed back at me calling my name. I wanted to buy every piece I saw and would have... had my husband not been with me to control the situation. Who knew such pretty stuff existed?!

It is designed & custom made by MJ's Creations ~ Mijung Savale and she is so creative. She also does bridal pieces and although currently has no website, they are a must see in person anyway. It's at the same address as Ship Shape & same phone number: 97 Glenwood Ave, Queensbury, NY 12804 • (518) 792-0867

Oh & while you are over that way... if you haven't tried FIVE GUYS BURGERS & FRIES, you are missing out! That's all for now. Hope all is well with everyone! Thanks for all the comments lately.

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Conway Wedding & 2 other occasion shoots
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: She is love by Parachute
CRAVING: not to multitask
NEEDED A MOMENT: school clothes... all clothes
BEST MOMENT: a small date with Jim

Photo Enhancement of the Month - August 09

Running a little behind in posting... September's coming soon!
Photo Enhancement of the Month - August 09
www.outoftheordinary.biz/enhancements.html

Crue Fest 2 Tickets 9/3/09 NY State Fair, Syracuse

We have tickets for Crue Fest 2 up for grabs! As it turns out Jim has to work and we can't go. It's at the NY State Fair in Syracuse. If anyone is interested in these tickets, let me know!

Both tickets are Grandstand Right and are seated together. Section: GSTD 2 Row: AA
No Video/Rain or Shine. Thursday, Sept. 3, 2009 at 5pm. The Syracuse Event is sold out so take this opp if you really want to go!

See our listing on Ebay.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=320417834028&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT

Official Mötley Crüe site features sound and video clips, photos, interviews, and more.
Motley.com // Crue Fest 2

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GNfMQ7sm_p8

Blown Away

I am so excited about the last two weddings I captured this past weekend!
First on Friday, how 'bout this sunset! Mr. & Mrs. Bain trusted me on so many ideas & the rain stopped for this wonderful moment ~ always helpful!

Then on Saturday, with the help of second photographer Nicole Egan, we were able to be, literally, blown away by Mr. & Mrs. Stelmack... unbelievable!

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Welliehausen & other small photoshoot processing
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Private Eye by Hall and Oates
CRAVING: Frosted Mini-Wheats
NEEDED A MOMENT: The dumbest thing about family court is when we are awkwardly in the waiting room everyone suddenly pretends they don't know each other ~ it's so stupid!!! Can't we all just get along?!
BEST MOMENT: Looking forward to Jim & I having our first weekend off together from work & a busy wedding season...

A Wedding, Baptism & Engagement

I was all over the Capitol Region this weekend from Lake George to Albany! It was worth the hours in the hot sun.

The Rakus Wedding was full of beauty and just about everything you can imagine.

The Dineen's are one of my earliest couples for wedding photography and now I had the honor of meeting their daughter and capturing her baptism.

Also - Julie & Michael - you were a blast with the engagement session! The historic buildings, your dogs and your enthusiasm was amazing! Can't wait to capture your wedding in November!

Below is a sneak preview from all three!

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Welliehausen Wedding
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Right Now (na na na) by AKON
CRAVING: no allergies!
NEEDED A MOMENT: odd numb painful leg cramp, different than usual, early this morning
BEST MOMENT: rofl w/ JD

Hibernating Trends: Starting a family photo tradition

I see more and more brides and grooms starting a family photo tradition of their own. One of them being with photographs of their family's past. This year I've had a couple newlyweds ask me to duplicate their family photos and pose in the same place or just like their parents did. I think it's really neat and Mrs. Karilyn Lesperance was able to provide me with the original photo of her parents who were married October 18, 1980. Below that, the one I took recently on thier wedding day on July 25, 2009.
If you want to use this idea, have copies handy the day of or send me digital copies.

Pictured in front of the family home spiral steps:
First photo: Parents of the Bride. Mr. & Mrs. Larkin
Second photo: Newlyweds Mr. & Mrs. Lesperance

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Welliehausen
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Nothing Else Matters by Metallica
CRAVING: fresh air
NEEDED A MOMENT: mildew smell in basement (the past wet weather has been terrible for it)
BEST MOMENT: Finishing a slideshow

Lauryn, Leah & Christopher

Once again I had a great time seeing my friend Kathy and her daughter Lauryn, but then also had the privilege to see her twin sister Karin again and meet her two little ones for the very first time! These cuties gave me a good laugh at their facial expressions and turned out to be such characters together. Hopefully I can continue to capture them throughout their lives.

Oh & thanks for the DD gals! Until next time... enjoy your wine! ;)

http://www.outoftheordinary.biz/gibney_lynch_family.html

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Williams Slideshow
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Just the two of us by Grover Washington Jr.
CRAVING: chocolate milkshake & ice water
NEEDED A MOMENT: teeth hurt from swollen sinuses from allergies, eg.
BEST MOMENT: Jim making me laugh...

Rosey Red Shoes

I just love this past weekends' wedding combination: vibrant red shoes with a poofy white princess dress! A great wedding and beautiful weather...

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Williams Album Choices & Slideshow
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Fire Burning by Sean Kingston
CRAVING: less
NEEDED A MOMENT: seasonal allergies
BEST MOMENT: Jim randomly slow dancing with me twice this past week! :)

Short Veil

My first wedding to capture a bride wearing a short veil. Another goal I wanted to get for 2009! YAY!
Klotz Wedding 8/1/09 ~ Thanks for a cool wedding on a hot day!
MY CURRENT PROJECT: Williams Wedding Photos, Slideshow and Album selections
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: I Got A Feeling by Black Eyed Peas
CRAVING: a burger
NEEDED A MOMENT: Sun burn
BEST MOMENT: "I think I've got sun damage" lol

Wildflowers

I finally got a field of wildflowers shot at the July 25th wedding! One of my goals for 2009...

Reminder: I work weekends.

I'm not sure why this is forgotten or not realized but that's OK, I'll remind.
Lately I've been getting a lot of folks wondering why they can't reach me on the weekends and seem a bit antsy. The same with why I can't always set up meetings on weekends and if I do, the times seem don't work with everyone. The fact is, I work weekends, that's what wedding photographers and other vendors do. I do my best to accomadate answering emails as promptly as I can and set up what works best but it's just the way it is. For example: If I have a wedding on a Saturday, most likely it will go til around midnight, sometimes later, plus the drive home. Usually I am exhausted after a wedding and need to sleep in and rest to catch up on sleep when possible. So if I make an appt on the following Sunday or Monday, it may not be until late morning, afternoon or evening. I have made acceptions and it's fine, just be aware that you may not hear from me on Fridays, Saturdays and/or Sundays.

Thank you! :)

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Williams Wedding, website updates and paperwork organizing
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond (I'm so tired of this song!)
CRAVING: ?
NEEDED A MOMENT: A week of discoveries and amazingly disturbing things
BEST MOMENT: Getting business paperwork done

When it rains...

it pours.

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Williams Wedding
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: I Ran (So Far Away) by A Flock of Seagulls
CRAVING: nothing
NEEDED A MOMENT: where do I start?
BEST MOMENT: What is up with the P.O. Box? lol...

Best. Wedding Entrance. Ever.

Read the full article here.

Photo Enhancement of the Month 7/2009

Photo Enhancement of the Month - July 09
www.outoftheordinary.biz/enhancements.html

Life Through A Lens - Nicole Egan

I am so proud of my friend, photographer, mentee, assistant, and other times vent buddy, Nicole Egan. Many of you already know of Nicole through doing photography with me at some of the weddings I've captured and others may recognize her through her own wedding I did back in June 07. I'll never forget how Nicole and I met because I missed a meeting with her, not once, but twice when she was hiring me to do her wedding. Finally the third time I made it and she told me her interest in photography then. Like many meetings she expressed her love for photos but it was different because we connected and there was something unique about her. In the end she never gave up on me and I never gave up on her. Over the years we became close friends and I believe we will always share the love for extreme creative photography. Nicole eventually started her own business and created a website to display her portfolio. Check out her latest photos of a recent wedding she did as well as many other occasions: www.lifethroughalensphotos.com

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Finishing Pendergast Wedding
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Surrender by Cheap Trick
CRAVING: tomato sandwich and corn on the cob
NEEDED A MOMENT: sounds like there is a monkey next door?
BEST MOMENT: Seeing Nicole come full circle on her own with artistic photography

Tip: If you have a wedding site of your own...

Please share with me. Especially if we are communicating over email or long distances. I love to see the photos and directions for things, it's a great way to keep in touch!

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Pendergast
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: When I'm 64 by The Beatles
CRAVING: coffee
NEEDED A MOMENT: i didn't even notice!
BEST MOMENT: chatting

Instant enemies

Officiants. If you are unfamiliar with this term it means the person that is marrying you that leads a service or ceremony. Whether it be a Judge, Notary, Justices of the Peace, Celebrants, Reverend, Paster, Preacher, Priest, Friend, Professor or other religious bodies.

As a professional photographer, they either work good with you or don't. There really isn't any in between. Not all of them are bad or hard to work with, in fact, I'd say overall, they are fun and open to what I do. But the ones that have a bad hair day, forget it! I understand they may have had bad experiences with prior photographers or videographers but there is no good done by anyone with yelling or scolding without even knowing who we are individually and how we work. But it happens and quite often. At least a few weddings a year I get yelled at, literally, before I can even raise my hand to introducing myself. It's like a camera is an instant threat if you wear one. I'm never ready for it and it's always ironic to me because most are supposedly so called religious "caring" figures or icons, yet they are just plain uncaring to me and treat me like dirt that has no brain or feelings. It's like one of those things that front of the bride & groom they are pleasant as can be but as soon as the bride/groom leave the room they give you an evil eye. Very freaky movie-like. As I write this, it in no way reflects the bride and groom in ANY way, so never feel like it's your fault.

I had one yesterday in fact and that's why I've decided to vent about it. He told me to stand in one place only with no movement, which is fine, I can do that. Although the term movement has many different meanings to me. As they run through my mind I'm thinking, can walk over one step to center myself? There is movement in place: up, down and turning, can I do that? Can I breathe? Be specific dude. So then he proceeds asked me what I normally do while taking photos. So like any human, I started to answer and show my routine (in the one selected spot chosen) and I said I'll do my best from this angle and he raised his voice in front of guests and yelled "I'M NOT ASKING YOU! I'M TELLING YOU!!!" And then I think, "Well excuse me for being nice, now I want to purposely offend you because you're being a big jerk!" I just don't understand why we can't work together and find balance, what happened to make him so bitterly opposed?

I am one of those people that if you respect me, I'll respect you but the moment you set me off, I'm done. The only reason I don't leave at that point is because I realize that I was hired and it's not my day. Otherwise, I would walk out so fast and not cover it at all. I think it's extreme to treat others working that day like dogs and it's just plain not right. It used to effect me greatly and I'd cry when I got home and take it personal but now I shrug it off, it's no big deal, I'm used to it and I've hardened over the years. I realized, it's not me, it's them with a power trip. Along with all the other photographers in their world that chose to push their boundaries and ruin it for everyone else.

I have an understanding. I know how distracting movement can be so I limit it without request. I know how flash can blind you for a split moment when your trying to read so I try to flash when the reader is looking away or use indirect flash to help when possible. I know all these things so I do my very best while keeping in mind that I was also hired to do my job and I can't not take photos. I've had ceremonies that don't allow any photos taken, fine for me, maybe not for you but you should find out before your wedding. I've had some that allow flash only during the beginning and end with the wedding procession and recessional, which I listen. I'm pretty respectful and easy to work with so I don't understand why I get judged based on others' actions, it's truly unfair. But with all jobs, I deal. I am a true believer in letting things go but if it effects you from what they request, I refuse to take the blame when I know I could have done my job differently.

All in all, just keep in mind, it's not always rosy behind the scenes and I may mention there is "tension" or set rules have been in place so you are aware of the outcome of your photos and the reason behind it. I will never go into detail because I don't want to stress you out on your day, you have plenty of other things to worry about and to enjoy.

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Pendergast Wedding
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Calabria by Rune
CRAVING: light food and refreshing drinks
NEEDED A MOMENT: phone
BEST MOMENT: feeling balanced

A New Look at Boudoir

Here is a great PDF article link on boudoir photography.
www.ppmag.com/current_issue/pdfs/0907/0709divas_web.pdf

FAQ: What time do you want me to do my hair?

For a while I thought this was only going to be asked a couple times but it looks to be an on-going question so let me address it.
The answer is: I have no idea. I'm not being sarcastic here, I'm being honest. Because I don't know your hair type or hair dresser and how long it takes them, along with what style you are doing. Even if I did know the style, I'm not a hair dresser, that's their expertise. I leave that up to you two to determine. I just show up and take photos of it in any shape or form. You could be half ready and the show must go on! Some want photos of their hair being done, some want photos of their hair after only. Some want make-up being put on and some what it already on when I arrive. Up to you.

I cover up to 2 hours of getting ready, what you do in that time is up to you and I take photos as it happens. If you want formal photos taken of girls only, allow a half hour for them before the ceremony or before the limo picks you up. If you want formal photos done of you and your future husband before the ceremony, push getting ready up by 1-1.5 hrs before the ceremony starts or the limo picks you up. Simple as that.

Happy 70th Birthday MOM!

Wish we could be there. You may be miles away from me but you are always close to my heart. Enjoy your day and we love you!

Holly & Jim

Announcement: 108 Weddings!

I was just thinking the other day that I should be around my 100th wedding captured... and sure enough eight weddings ago we reached it! Mr. & Mrs. Welliehausen was our 100th wedding!

It's you but it's not.

What happens when editing goes too far? It's in every photographer magazine I see and it bothers me. I am a true believer that you are who you are and it is very hard for me to understand those that what to be someone they are not. I mean, after all, they did marry you and not someone else. Everyone sees you as you are, wouldn't it be strange to show your photos and something about you is dramatically changed?

Sometimes a graphic license is misused and it is getting out of control. I see more and more filters and programs out there that are manipulating images so much that it doesn't even end up looking like the person that it's supposed to be. Making a fine line between cool and creepy. Suddenly they have fuller lips, a nose lift, no face lines and an unnatural chin. I personally cannot stand it and have hard time adjusting mentally to anything that changes them into someone different. I occasionally get a bride asking for some of these changes and I may try a small selected few but mostly I say no. Let's be honest, it's not easy to do all these enhancements and it takes a considerable amount of time. In any case, what happened to real life? What happened to being who you are and preparing for your day with diet, exercise, tanning, make-up? What is too far and what is OK? These are all questions I ask on a weekly basis. I was discussing recently with a fellow photographer friend that said most brides end up not even looking anything like themselves the day of their wedding. Where have our traditions gone and is it really a real day or is it in fact just a fantasy day?

Some touch-ups are a given and I do basic editing such as acne, lighten dark circles and decrease some wrinkles, stretch marks, shine or age spots. But I keep it real. If you are unhappy with the natural idea, please don't have me take your photos unless you plan on enhancing them yourself. I've considered in the future to only do them on request on a limited basis at an extra charge per photo. Some forget that I take an average of over 1,000 images per wedding, it can take months to do such enhancements so I would never offer every image.

I recently saw in the media about Kate Winslet, she was upset about a cover photo that was printed and the graphic artists made her into a shape she is not in real life and wanted her photo to be reprinted as the original on the cover. Finally someone stood up to this new fabricated way! I agree with her on this, although I don't think they reprinted it.

The mural of the story is, just because we can doesn't mean we should.

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Bill & Sarah Engagement Photos
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Halo by Beyoncé (out to my husband)
CRAVING: to dance. and to turn the tables.
NEEDED A MOMENT: Family Court? I mean REALLY.!? So, we are cool enough for you to think you can try to get your wedding photos done for free by your ex-husband's wife but you can't approach us about your child's braces who's father has had braces twice in his life? REALLY? Wow. The sad reality is this effects JD the most, we're adults.. well some of us are.
BEST MOMENT: An awesome day with my husband 4Wling

New prices

New prices in effect Monday, July 13, 2009.
www.outoftheordinary.biz/prices.html

In-basket

If you haven't noticed the new in-basket page, check it out. It gives you a look into my world and work load left to do. It shows where your event is on the list and is updated every day or two. I process everyone in order to keep it fair. The only exception to this is sometimes small events such as family photos or engagement photos. I can usually squeeze those in between depending on the deadline because I take less photos for them. But I carefully analyze what is doable without throwing me off schedule too much. I've added this icon to every new page I'm working on so it is always easily accessible to you. I think it's kinda fun to see who moves up on the list!

MY CURRENT PROJECT: Tesoriero Wedding and Bill & Sarah Engagement photos
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: I need you by Faith Hill & Tim McGraw
CRAVING: more
NEEDED A MOMENT: the dempsey fish going crazy in the tank
BEST MOMENT: my sweetie sleeping

Happy 12th Birthday Michaela

HAPPY BIRTHDAY (to my niece) MICHAELA!
I see not much has changed in expressions over the years... :)
Hope you have an awesome day!
~Aunt Holly
LMY CURRENT PROJECT: Tesoriero Wedding
SONG STUCK IN MY HEAD: Hey Sexy Lady by Shaggy
CRAVING: thirsty
NEEDED A MOMENT: <--sigh-->
BEST MOMENT: talking to mom and getting caught up on little things

Best of Michael Jackson Dancers

At weddings I see many things. Lots of great dancers... but one thing always stays consistent and never tiring. It's those that have the thriller claws, the moon-walkers, the leg twitch, biting their lip, finger snapin' and the tip-toe stance. Micheal Jackson's music has and always will be a part of weddings and as much as I am tired of hearing it in the media I have to admit a little part of me will miss the idea that a legend will be gone. The past dancers and future dances will continue and I believe his songs will live on for generations to come. Maybe his wish of peace, love and laughter already came true. Here is a collection of just a few of those captured at weddings. And to think, there are so many more that I could find but would have to search through thousands of photos. Until then; RIP MJ.