Jenna Rose Photography

Jasmine: Class of 2012 (Grand Rapids Senior Photographer)

2012-01-31T10:06:00.001-05:00

January 29, 2012

Even though the end of the school year is in sight, I still have a little more senior work to do. Jasmine is one of the lovely ladies I am working with on her portraits. I met her and her mom in the middle of a snowstorm at the studio. That kind of put a damper on our plans for outside photos that day, but we rocked the studio session nevertheless.

Jasmine is a gorgeous girl, and knows a thing or two about working the camera, I'd say. Beautiful smile, great attitude, and she took direction well. You'll see her again when we get that outdoor session rescheduled, but for now, enjoy this lovely lady's indoor smile!

^Give me some of that attitude! :-)

^Love it!

^Awesome boots, Jasmine!

^She's a natural.

^One of my favorites, I think. Gorgeous.

^Finishing up with a comfy outfit.

Bride's Choice Awards 2012

2012-01-23T12:37:00.001-05:00

{Grand Rapids,MI} – January 23, 2012 – WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding Marketplace, is excited to announce Jenna Rose Photography has been selected to receive the prestigious WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2012 for Photography!

The esteemed annual awards program recognizes the top local wedding vendors from the WeddingWire Network who demonstrate excellence in quality, service, responsiveness and professionalism within the wedding industry. While many industry awards are selected by the organization, Jenna Rose Photography was selected based on its stellar reviews from past newlywed clients.

Jenna Rose Photography is recognized as part of the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire local vendor community, comprised of over 200,000 wedding professionals throughout the United States and Canada. The Bride’s Choice Award recognizes the best local wedding vendors across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, based on their overall professional achievements throughout the past year.

“WeddingWire is thrilled to honor the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire Community,” said Timothy Chi, CEO, WeddingWire. “Since the launch of the Bride’s Choice Awards™ program four years ago, thousands of outstanding wedding professionals have been recognized by the bridal community for their supreme service and dedication to the wedding industry. It is with great pleasure that we congratulate Jenna Rose Photography for their continued professionalism and commitment to enriching the wedding planning experience for engaged couples.”

We are happy to announce that Jenna Rose Photography is one of the very best Photographers within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites WeddingWire, Project Wedding, Brides.com, Martha Stewart Weddings, and Weddingbee. We would like to thank our past clients for taking the time to review our business on WeddingWire. Thanks to their positive feedback we were able to receive the WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ for 2012.
To learn more about the Bride's Choice Awards™, please visit http://www.weddingwire.com/.

***Thanks to all my 2011 brides for making this possible!

Baby Avery Elizabeth (Michigan Baby Photography)

2012-01-23T10:07:00.000-05:00

January 20, 2012

Angela and Cody (two of my friends from high school) had a baby this past November. Little Avery (I LOVE that name!) is so cute, and just barely two months old, but she was SO good for us when she came to my house to have her photos taken with Mom. Angela is visiting home for a few weeks -- Cody is stuck at work in Pennsylvania and couldn't make it up with his girls. We chatted for a long time, while unsuccessfully trying to get a real smile out of Miss Avery. She would only oblige when the camera wasn't in her face.

Cody and Angela got married WAY back in 2006, and they were actually the first wedding I ever went to where I had my "big fancy DSLR" with me. I wasn't their wedding photographer but I had just gotten my D50 and took a few shots as a guest. It was the first time I even did anything that might loosely be described as wedding photography! It was great talking about this and lots of other things with Angela, since I think it's been years since we've seen each other! And of course I was thrilled to meet her daughter. Such a doll! Let's get to the cute baby, shall we?

^She's such a pretty little girl, and so good too!

^First she was fascinated with her toes, and then the fuzzy blanket. She wouldn't look up for us!

^My parents' cat, Puddles, came along to check out the baby.

^Haha, it's not a great photo but it's definitely a funny one!

^She just didn't want to smile much for us!

^But we occasionally caught a coy smile or two!

^So cute! We couldn't get many tummy photos because Avery isn't a fan. But we snuck a couple in.

^Baby toes!

^I think she's getting bored of this!

^Smiling for Mom.

^And she's out! Thanks for being so cute, Avery!

Doug + Sarah: Engaged (Grand Rapids Wedding Photographer)

2012-01-18T10:25:00.000-05:00

January 14, 2012

I've been dreaming of this shoot for years. Then Doug and Sarah came along to make it happen! I met these two back in October, where we discussed their wedding for THIS October, and they mentioned that for their engagement session, they'd like to do something with ice skating. Yay! I FINALLY get to do my ice skating session at Rosa Parks in downtown Grand Rapids! Up until this weekend, we haven't had any snow sticking on the ground here in West Michigan, so I was worried our cute little city shoot might be a little gray and gloomy, but just as Sarah predicted, it started snowing on her birthday -- the Thursday before -- and just wouldn't stop. The result was a gorgeous winter wonderland in downtown Grand Rapids.

Despite the cold and snow, we spent the better part of two hours hanging around about a two block span of downtown, hopping from one location to the next, with me there all giddy and excited. Took a quick stop in a coffee shop to wait for the ice rink to open, and traipsed around in the newly fallen snow. You know I'm dedicated when I even lay on the freezing cold ice to get a shot! Even though the most of the session wasn't actually spent skating, it was great fun and we had a blast. Life is good.

Sarah is a girl after my own heart. She's excited to plan the exact wedding of her and Doug's dreams. Not to mention it's going to be at Castle Farms in Charlevoix (yay!) and feature DESSERT as the main course. Exciting! She's got some great ideas for her bouquets and colors, and I just cannot wait to work with her and Doug in another seven months or so. But for now, enjoy their engagement session!

^This blue wall (AMAZING!) has been eluding me for months. However, it turns out it was hiding in plain site all along!

^Ahhh, it's love!

^A good way to warm up.

^Sarah did this cute scrunchy face when Doug kissed her cheek. I love it!

^I think this is my absolute favorite!

^Don't let them fool you; it's cold out there!

^Loving me some candid snow walking shots.

^Time for some skating action!

^The burden of the seasoned skater... when you skate with someone less seasoned, you almost always have to lace up their skates for them ;-)

^This is about the only time Doug can toss Sarah around with out too much in the way of repercussions!

^Really like this one too!

^From down on the ice ;-)

^Time for the Red Wing's game!

Couple of the Month - January

2012-01-11T16:35:00.000-05:00

Dennis and Jacquie - March 30, 2012

Every month, I will be featuring a new couple of mine! This month, I'd like to introduce Dennis and Jacquie!

Dennis and Jacquie are tying the knot this spring. The two of them moved to Jacksonville, Florida, just this past May after Dennis accepted a job there. It just so happens that a bunch of Jacquie's family live in the state, so it's nice she gets to be closer to them now. Jacquie's sister is one of my best friends, and I've been heading down to the Sunshine State quite often to do photos of their ever-expanding family. I'm very thrilled to be getting to go down for Jacquie's wedding. What better excuse to visit Florida than visiting friends and wedding photography?

They chose March for their big day and I am super excited about their wedding. It will take place at the Jacksonville Golf and Country Club (which looks just gorgeous!) and will be my first wedding of the year. I am so excited to get started! And they might even have a second reception for me to attend back here in Michigan for the family members who couldn't make it, since they are both from the east side of the state. Keep an eye out for these two again in less than three months!

Gill Family

2012-01-05T13:27:00.000-05:00

January 1, 2012

Over the new year, my boyfriend and I drove down to North Carolina to visit his sister and her family. Paul is a Marine and works at Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville. Mike has never been down to visit since his sister got married 15 years ago, so we figured it was about time. As part of our Christmas gift to them, we did some photos of all of them! I just love the kids, Tyle and Corin. Corin was my little shadow all week, and Tyler is full of knowledge of things you never knew you didn't know :) Billie Jo and Paul were nothing but hospitible and we had a blast spending time with them (which included a trip to Duplin Winery, which was awesome!). Thanks to the Gill Family for putting up with us and we hope to see you all again soon!

^I forget that even though they are a lot further south, it's still winter in NC. No leaves on the trees!

^Tyler and Corin, tolerating each other for the camera :)

^Tyler's almost as tall as his dad already! He's only 13!

^I think this one is my favorite.

^Now Uncle Mike can get in a few photos.

^Billie is Mike's big sister, but I think he wins in the "big" department!

Katie (Grand Rapids Maternity Photographer)

2012-01-03T15:34:00.004-05:00

December 26, 2011

Back in December, we ran a contest to give a couple very deserving families-to-be a whole year's worth of photos; from before their baby was born, all the way to their first birthday, with four sessions in between. Our first winner recently had her maternity session done. Katie is probably the cutest pregnant lady I've ever seen. She's a gorgeous girl and I am so excited to see how gorgeous her baby will be. She and her husband haven't found out the gender, but they are excited to meet their little one.

Even with the holidays getting in the way... I wanted to get Katie's photos posted before her baby is born! We had to hurry because her due date is just next week! Katie met me at my studio to get some awesome shots of her baby belly. She brought along a bunch of cute outfits, as well has her equally gorgeous sister (who had a few helpful suggestions and style tips as well), and here's what we came up with. Stay tuned very soon to catch Baby Stitt's newborn portraits!

^Katie is absolutely gorgeous. Can you believe she is within two and a half weeks of her due date?

^Leather jacket, looking good!

^Such a beautiful momma-to-be!

^Katie and her twin sister, Jessica, who is also expecting! Their babies will be just 7 months apart! Exciting!

^Perfect placement of the flower on her shirt :)

^GORGEOUS!!!

^If the baby is a girl... little Miss Raygan!

^And if it's a boy... little mister David (after Daddy!)

^Can't wait for baby!!!

^Little Raygan or David will be back very soon for her or his newborn session :)

Eric + Shaelyn: Engaged

2011-12-29T22:58:00.001-05:00

December 23, 2011

When I met Eric back in August, it was for a quick interview about their wedding. He is heading up a lot of the planning as Shaelyn is finishing up vet school way out in Iowa! The lucky lady has a very involved finace! She was in town this week so it was great timing do get an engagement session in. It was off to the east side of the state this time for my second "day trip" in the week before Christmas. Smooth sailing, albeit a bit COLD, but our indoor location, the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, made that no problem at all!

I'm not always partial to shooting so much indoors. The museum is awesome, though, and even without a lot of available light for non-flash photography (which I prefer of course :), we had a lot of things to use! I would have loved to have been able to try some off-camera flash, but it wasn't in the cards with time and space constriction (the museum was busier than we expected!), but we made it work. Even though the car section of the museum was under construction (much to Eric's disappointment!), we had a lot of other photo opportunities. We finished up our time at the Henry Ford in the well-lit hallways, and got some of my favorite images of the day!

One more stop before I headed back to West Michigan; the place Eric proposed to Shae. I love it when you can add that extra touch of meaning to a photo shoot! They showed some love for alma mater SVSU and finished up our session, chilly but satisfied. Thanks to the two of you, I'm very much looking forward to your wedding in October!

^I was in awe at the size of these trains! Dating back to the 1800s, some of them!

^The museum was a lot busier than it looked in this shot!

^Very cute!

^They are such a cute couple!

^Navigating to our next stop in the museum.

^This is just awesome! Such a cool perspective shot!

^The bus Rosa Parks road on.

^Ahhh, natural light again :-)

^We dodged out in to this cute courtyard for a few shots. Cold, but love how Shae's hair was blowing!

^Coolest room ever... but we weren't allowed to go up the stairs. This will have to do.

^Looked like a little bus or train station. And there's my "&" again!

^The hallways were GORGEOUS. Absolutely love it.

^Ahhh overcast, how I love you!

^We are right across from the bench where Eric proposed. How sweet!

^Great way to end an engagement session!

Top 100 of 2011

2011-12-27T14:47:00.000-05:00

It's the end of the year again, and it was SOOOO hard to weed through all my photos and pick ONLY 100. I just figured any more than that and you guys would get bored so... Just so you guys know, this is REALLY hard to do! Picking out only 100??? My VERY favorites list was into the 200 range! I had a lot of weeding out to do... But without further ado, enjoy my favorites from this year!

100. Calvin and Kim - Glen Arbor, MI

99. Katrina - Grand Rapids, MI

98. Hope - Gladwin, MI

97. Jessica and her puppy, Lexie - DeLand, FL

96. Jessica and Jason - Allendale, MI

95. Monica and Duke - Gladwin, MI

94. Kyle and Suzy - Gladwin, MI

93. Eric and Shaelyn - Dearborn, MI

92. Mason - Grand Rapids, MI

91. Latesha - Grand Rapids, MI

90. Claire - Grand Rapids, MI

89. Ashley (and Braelyn) - Grand Rapids, MI

88. Kaitlyn and Brent - Grand Rapids, MI

87. Kylie - Grand Rapids, MI

86. Candi and Paul - Mount Pleasant, MI

85. Ryan and Alexys - Harrison, MI

84. DeMari, Class of 2012 - Grand Rapids, MI

83. Andrea, Class of 2012 - Grand Rapids, MI

82. Julie - Grand Rapids, MI

81. Emily and Jon - Grand Rapids, MI

80. Catholic Church - Hamtramck, MI

79. Laurelye - Longwood, FL

78. Erica and John - Ypsilanti, MI

77. Dan and Lisa - Grand Rapids, MI

76. The Latunski Family - Rockford, MI

75. Monica - Gladwin, MI

74. Nick and Amber - Lowell, MI

73. Rings - Rochester, MI

72. Gladiolas - Ypsilanti, MI

71. Katrina - Grand Rapids, MI

70. Wedding tent decorations - Lansing, MI

69. Jenna and Charles - Harrison, MI

68. Jolene and Brian - Longwood, FL

67. Candi - Mount Pleasant, MI

66. Karla - Leonard, MI

65. Blossoming trees - Kentwood, MI

64. Rowan - Newago, MI

63. Butterfly mini cakes - Glen Arbor, MI

62. Baby J'aime - Longwood, FL

61. Jenna and Charles - Houghton Lake, MI

60. Baby Noah - Grand Rapids, MI

59. Angela and Pete - Novi, MI

58. Charles - Houghton Lake, MI

57. Emily - Gull Lake, MI

56. Dennis and Jacquie - Plymouth, MI

55. Brent and Kaitlyn - Grand Rapids, MI

54. Jason and Jessica - Rochester, MI

53. Kara and Dustin - Frankfort, MI

52. Pete, his groomsmen, and the Renaissance Center - Detroit, MI

51. Jenna - Harrison, MI

50. DeMari, Class of 2012 - Grand Rapids, MI

49. Jessica and baby J'aime's feet, Longwood, FL

48. Joe and Kim - Lansing, MI

47. Latesha - Grand Rapids, MI

46. Maynard and Karley - Harrison, MI

45. Suzy and Kyle - Gladwin, MI

44. Wedding jewelry - Rochester, MI

43. Julie - Grand Rapids, MI

42. Brandon and Whitney - Gladwin, MI

41. Lisa - Harrison, MI

40. Bridal bouquet - Rochester, MI

39. Jessica and Jason - Allendale, MI

38. Baby Hadley - Harrison, MI

37. Karla - Leonard, MI

36. Kara - Honor, MI

35. Jenna and her bridesmaids - Houghton Lake, MI

34. Lisa - Harrison, MI

33. Dustin and Caitlin - Comstock Park, MI

32. Paul - Rochester, MI

31. Jared and Ashley - Grand Rapids, MI

30. Jenna - Harrison, MI

29. Dan and Lisa - Grand Rapids, MI

28. Eric and Shaelyn - Dearborn, MI

27. Foilage - Kentwood, MI

26. Jon and Emily - Gull Lake, MI

25. Jessica - Rochester, MI

24. Dustin and Caitlin - Comstock Park, MI

23. Off-camera flash workshop - Grand Rapids, MI

22. Pete and Angela - Novi, MI

21. J'aime and Jennie - Ponce Inlet, FL

20. Jerad and Ashley - Even though we didn't get to do the wedding, I loved this huge shoot we did together!

19. Dan and Lisa - The willows were a perfect setting. Cute couple didn't hurt either!

18. Blake, Class of 2012 - I can't even put my finger on it, but I know I love this shot of Blake!

17. Allie - She has a beautiful smile, but I love her serious face!

16. Jon and his groomsmen - These guys kept the day interesting. And I LOVE the gray tuxes!

15. Glen Arbor - Took this while second shooting with Misty. Love the depth and all that color.

14. Jenna - Not every bride will take her wedding dress in a pond for a perfect shot...

13. Haley - Love her smile, and fashion sense... (We can thank Mom for both :-)

12. Jon and Emily - Love these two. Such a great couple... and I love this colorful shot of them as well.

11. Baby Noah - he's just so adorable with his cake!

10. Jenna and her bridesmaids - Love the way they composed themselves... and the yellow on black!

9. Luke and Haley - These two kids were awesome, and I just love this vantage point.

8. Rowan - He was so content just playing with his fishing pole, even though he knew he wouldn't catch any!

7. Allie - She just rocks it, 'nuff said.

6. Baby Hadley - It took her awhile to warm up to the camera, but she did! Love this shot of her in her tutu!

5. Jon and Emily - I knew these two were going to give me some awesome photos. My fave from their day.

4. DeMari, Class of 2012 - This guy should model.

3. Charles and Jenna - My favorite wedding of the year... and you'll find this shot on my biz cards in 2012.

2. Dustin and Caitlin - Love the backdrop here. If I love this shot, I can't wait for the wedding!

And the top spot this year goes to.... drum roll please...

1. Jason and Jessica - The wind took her cathedral veil just perfectly. The field was perfect, the couple was fabulous. The shot is a winner... THE winner!!! Thanks guys!

Kyle + Suzy: Engaged

2011-12-22T11:12:00.000-05:00

December 20, 2011

As the year draws to a close, I've been looking back on a lot of things that this year meant to me. And I've also been looking forward to what 2012 will bring as well. It's exciting to be able to grow a business from the ground up, and while doing it, make people happy. It really adds another level of importance to the work I do. I am very excited to so far have NINE weddings booked for 2012, and hopefully there will be more to come! I truly love my couples, and I love being able to give them what they are looking for on their wedding day.

It's been almost a month an a half since I had some real photography work, and I was more than thrilled to be getting to do TWO engagement sessions the week before Christmas. Those out-of-town couples are heading back home, so you have to work with that schedule. Not a problem for me.

Kyle and Suzy were first up this week. Suzy is another alumni of my high school. Back when they were in middle school, her sister and mine were best friends... very creative (and somewhat hilarious) best friends, as Suzy and I discussed on the ride to our location. She met Kyle while the two of them attended grad school down in Indiana. She recently completed her Masters in music, and he is one semester away from earning his Doctorate. Impressive! We chatted all things wedding on our ride, and got a chance to catch up with Suzy a bit as well, which is always nice.

We started inside, but did most of our photos outdoors. It wasn't QUITE as chilly as it had been earlier, so we did all right, I think. Kyle and Suzy were both great sports while I got back into my "groove" as I like to call it. I love meeting couples that are obviously so perfect for each other. Kyle was so sweet with Suzy, and he's a wonderfully helpful guy. We had a fun time, and I'm now even more excited to be a part of their wedding this coming June. Congrats to the both of you on finding such a great match, and thanks for thinking of me!

^Hanging out by the fireplace. A real fire would have been nice!

^I had Kyle "squeeze" her. Quite a cuddle here!

^My new "&". I still love it, but I kind of forgot about it after this shot!

^We took the bulk of this shoot in my Great Aunt's backyard. I LOVE the birches!

^Apparently "owling" is a new trend? Haha.

^This has to be one of my faves. I just love the candid feel it has, and Suzy just looks so happy!

^Awwww!

^The way the bricks on the front step were placed gave this shot a false fish-eye look. Neat!

^We made our way to the Riverwalk for a few more shots before heading home...

^Thanks, Kyle and Suzy, for a great shoot! At least we know it will be warmer for the wedding!

Beautiful Brides of 2011

2011-12-19T14:42:00.001-05:00

Here's to all the girls who chose me to be a part of their big day this year. Here are some of my faves from all the weddings I headed up throughout the year. Thanks again, ladies!

^Jennie married J'aime this year in my first out-of-state and first beach wedding this past September. Jennie chose her favorite color, blue, and J'aime's favorite, purple, for her bright and casual beach wedding.

^Whiteny got a gorgeous day for her early fall wedding in Septemeber, when she married Brandon. Browns and oranges were the fashion for the day, and we had lots of time for great photos down by the river after the ceremony.

^Cloudy skies and a little rain didn't stop us at Jenna's wedding to Charles in August. The lighting was perfection! And the bright yellow layer with black and white was just the way to get some bright color out of an otherwise flat lit day.

^Oh wow, was it hot for Candi and Paul's June wedding. She looked stunning, you'd never know it was in the upper 80s! Lots of purple accompanied them along with the heat, as well as a little class :-)

^My little sister, Kara, tied the knot with Dustin in September, where the showed off the fall colors before the leaves were ready to change in northern Michigan. While I wasn't the main photog, I put the D3 to work for portraits!

^My first May wedding featured the beautiful Monica, who married Duke despite the rain and mud. She chose to use bright oranges, which I am really into this year, for her bouquet and it really brightened up the drab weather that day.

^A little chilly but a beautiful day for Karla, when she married Chris. Fall was still in full swing even at the end of the month and the colors made for some great photos, even thougth it got dark before the couple shots were done.

^My cousin, Jessica, married Jason in October. Purple and black was the style they chose at a cute little location on the east side of the state. It was chilly and very breezy, but paired with her cathedral veil... amazing!

^Gull Lake was fabulous on Emily and Jon's wedding day in August. The day was sunny, the colors were bright. I loved the pink... and they gave me so much time to photograph. And to top it off, a sunset shoot really made my day!!!

Coming Up Roses: Spreading Good Cheer

2011-12-14T13:19:00.004-05:00

My new tradition is doing some sort of photo giveaway around Chistmas time. This year's ideas was to hold a contest to give deserving parents-to-be free photo sessions to celebrate the birth of their newest family members! We had lots of nominations, and thanks to three fabulous judges (who knew nothing but the nominations about each of the Mommies), we have our winners. We actually had a tie for the top spot, but since I planned on two winners, I figured it was fate. Check them out below!

Maria

Maria was nominated by one of her good friends, Allie, who I've worked with a couple times in the past. She has a bit of a sad story leading up to her current pregnancy, and I think she is a very deserving choice! More about Maria and her baby-in-the-making.

Allie: "Maria has been one of my best friends for a long time now. She dated her boyfriend, Chad, for about six years before they got married a year and few months ago. They are such a sweet and loving couple, and also very hard-working. He works long days and sometimes nights. It depends, as his shift changes every few months. Maria works full time as well. She is always thinking about other people before hersle and rarely does any spoiling for herself. She does deserve to be spoiled because of how amazing, caring, and loving she is. This baby is extra special. They have been trying since the wedding. She was pregnant before but sadly has a misscarriage. They found out just the other day that they are having a little girl. Maria is so cute and just starting to show. She deserves pampering through photos for her and little baby McConnell!"

Katie Jo

I met Katie at shoot last year, and while that was the only time we've worked together, she has some amazing friends who were all about making sure she was recognized as someone who is going to be a great mother. Not one, but THREE people nominated Katie and her husband, Dave, for this honor. They also have a great story and definitely desever it as well! Thanks to Claire, Abby, and Missy for sending your nominations in. Without further ado, more about our second winner!

Claire: "Katie deserve this because she is a hard-working military wife. She got pregnant while her husband was home for his two week R-and-R and spent the first 4 to 5 months of her pregnancy without her husband. They are a young couple, just starting their family, and have just moved into their first house. Katie is very active in her church and community. She is extremely sweet and willing to help others whenever possible. She is an amazing woman who has done her part to serve our country as the wife of an American soldier."

Each of these ladies and their hubbies are first time parents and I am so excited to work with them. They each received a free maternity session, as well as newborn portraits, with more sessions at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months for their babies. They will also get a book of all the sessions after they are completed. A years worth of memories! Exciting.

Thanks also to our two runners-up, Stacy and Melissa, another couple of deserving moms who we will see more soon! Thanks to everyone who nominated and was nominated. It's going to be a year full of babies!

Mike & Jenna (yes, me!)

2011-12-06T10:27:00.000-05:00

By Misty Minna Photography

Every now and then, I feel it's only fair that I get a chance to get in FRONT of the camera. Despite my boyfriend's obvious dislike for having his photo taken (you think he would have softened up with being around me for three years...), I decided we should have a session done for Christmas cards this year. My great friend and fellow fabulous photographer, Misty Minna, was happy to oblige me in my need for some of my own face time! She met us in Rockford, where we live and Mike's good ol' hometown and we wandered around for awhile in the FREEZING cold, looking for some great shots. I think we succeeded. Sure, I don't like the face I make most of the time, and you can totally tell Mike's not nearly as into it as I want him to be, but I think we're pretty darn cute anyway. Thanks again, Misty!

^I LOVE the brick on this building. One of my favorite places to shoot in Rockford!

^"Adoring" Mike, since he was pretty nice to me today! Haha.

^Love this crazy Christmas tree!

^Snuggles!

^We're not that big on the kissing in public thing, but I love this shot of the dam so... I'll share!

^My personal favorite :-)

^At least he can fake it, right??? :-)

Boudoir Marathon

2011-12-05T10:40:00.003-05:00

January 28, 2012

In case you missed the big one last year, we are doing it again! One day full of awesome boudoir fun... at the new City Flats Hotel in downtown Grand Rapids. Email me at jenna@jennarosephotography.com for more information or to reserve your spot!

Packages will include an hour of photography at the hotel and online review. Choose the one that works best for you:

Package 1 - hi-res disc only for $200
Package 2 - hi-res disc with three 8x10 mounted prints for $275
Package 3 - hi-res disc with 8.5x11 20-page album for $350

Pete & Angela: A Detroit Wedding

2011-12-01T09:04:00.001-05:00

October 8, 2011

So this one is a long time coming. I had to wait for my "first" to post before I could post my "second" work, which was fine, since I haven't had the time to go through these until this week! Misty had me tag along to help one last time this year back in October. I headed over to the east side of the state to meet Pete and Angela, a really cute couple. Pete was SOOO tall and he and his guys, who I was responsible for during portraits, were having a little too much fun. Still, we made it happen. We did a lot of running around (Novi to downtown Detroit to Hamtramck back to Novi) and I got so tired (and I'll admit, a little cranky), but the images turned out great and I had a blast, as usual, working with Misty again. I'm also kind of glad I had to wait so long to edit these. Makes me miss wedding season already. By the way, if you know anyone getting married this winter, I'm available! :-)

^This little guy will be around in a lot of photos, can you blame me?

^We even gave little guy a shot! They are all water, though, secret's out!

^First look!

^I love the monotone white bouquets. Gorgeous.

^The guys along the Detroit River.

^Tell me the Renaissance Center is NOT an awesome backdrop!

^The guys wanted me to take this shot as the older guy rode through. Happy, boys?

^Epic :-)

^Haha, look at this cute little face!

^This old Polish Catholic church in Hamtramck was gorgeous.

^PERFECT!

Kylie (Grand Rapids Portrait Photographer)

2011-11-28T10:43:00.001-05:00

November 19, 2011

Recently, I signed on to use a new studio in Grand Rapids. It's in the same building as my old one, just a new floor and space. I haven't had much of a chance to use it yet (and to be honest, I've been kind of enjoying the post-season break I've had!) but it wa finally time to break it in. Kylie likes to have her photo taken, and I like to take her photo... It's a win-win! So while she wanted to have some portraits to use for her dad's Christmas present, we went ahead and did a litle shooting. Here's what we came up with!

^Such a pretty young lady!

^Sassy!

^LOVE her boots! I have some similar, but a different color. Thought about stealing them right off her feet though!

^We thought this crazy orange chair would be a nice contrast to the purple shirt :-)

Dooge Veneers: Company Christmas Card

2011-11-22T10:57:00.000-05:00

November 21, 2011

I spent the entire day at my regular job working on this... helping set up the tree, taking the photos (with me in them!), editing, designing, and ordering our company's Christmas card for this year. How'd I do?

Coming Up Roses: Baby Photo Contest Nominations

2011-11-17T16:23:00.002-05:00

Recently, I started to put together a new package for parents-to-be. And to showcase it, I needed to figure out some way to show how fun it is going to be. What better way to do it than a contest! And a little pay it forward...

First of all, I'll explain the package. The "Baby's First Year" package includes SIX photo sessions! To start, a maternity shoot, to show the "baby in progress". Then of course we'll do a newborn session, and then 3-months, 6-months, and 9-months... finishing up with 1-year-old photos! Cake action perhaps??? All at an amazing price and savings you wouldn't get if you did each session separately.

Now onto the contest. I'm looking for some expecting parents who deserve a little something special. Maybe it's a sister who has always been a great role model to you. A best friend who has been through some tough times and deserves a little love. Just about anything will do! I am going to choose TWO winners of the contest who will get all SIX sessions and either a photo book or disc at the end of the year of images. They are welcome to order photos from each of the sessions, but it's not a necessity!

I need one little boy and one little girl on the way. Mom needs to be expecting between January and May of 2012. They also need to be able to travel to my Grand Rapids studio for the sessions. Send a brief email to me (jenna@jennarosephotography.com) about why you are nominating them and a photo of the baby belly so far and you have officially entered the contest! The winner will be announced before Christmas (December 20, 2011)!

If you are expecting yourself, please let me know if you are interested as well! I can email you more information on this awesome package.

Good luck to all you expecting parents out there... and the babies almost ready to see the world for the first time!!!

^Ashley... almost time for baby!

^Baby Braelyn... newborn!

^Little Laurlye, a little past three months!

^Baby Hadley... close to six months!

^Baby J'aime... around nine months!

^Happy 1st birthday, little Noah!

Blake: Class of 2012

2011-11-15T10:34:00.000-05:00

November 6, 2011

In honor of today being opening day for firearm deer season here in Michigan, it feels perfect that I am able to feature Blake's senior portrait session. Blake is, as you might notice, a hunter himself. What timing! Recently, I headed up to Harrison to do a few different shoots, including Blake's. I first met Blake a LONG time ago. His family is close with one of my best friends from high school and her family. I was thrilled when Blake's mom, Angie, gave me a call late this summer to ask if I could do his senior portraits. It took us quite awhile to get them scheduled, but as I mentioned before, the timing couldn't have been more perfect.

As per usual with a lot of young men, photos are not their favorite thing in the world to be doing. However, once we got going, Blake warmed up and we had a good session. We featured a few of his kills, his crossbow, and then did the usual "nice dress shirt" photos, which I think Blake pulls of very nicely. He's got the BEST serious look, very impressive. It was great to see Blake again, to chat with Angie, and I hope to get to again in a couple years when Blake's little sister, Christian, is all ready to graduate. Thanks to the Meylen's again, it was great working with you!

^A few trophies here. The buck on the right was one Blake's grandpa shot, but the other two are all his!

^Taking aim...

^Normally I don't prefer to be on the business end of a crossbow, but it wasn't loaded and I don' think Blake hates getting his photo taken THAT much!

^A little "almost smile". Lookin' good, Blake.

^Love this one!

^Also love this one!

^You made my day, Blake! Thanks for the great shoot!

Luke & Haley

2011-11-14T10:59:00.001-05:00

November 5, 2011

The Cooper kids are awesome. They are already seasoned JRPhoto pros, as I took their photos back in July. It was MUCH warmer back then, but their mom, Mary, had Luke and Haley prepared with long sleeves and smiles... and climbing skills handy. I don't know how it happened, but they ended up climbing on something every place we went! We had them on a low branch at the back of my old elementary school, on the playground there as well, then at the state park, they both climbed on walls, trees, and even in a very overgrown tree that we couldn't figure out HOW to get into! It wasn't my idea... haha!

Anyway, I can't tell you how fun working with these two is. Even with a little extra energy, they were having a blast and coming up with cute spots for me to snap photos of them at/in/on... They even did a little sparing for me, even though they obviously get along great, which is wonderful! I love working with the Cooper kids and I hope that we get to do some more photos together in the future!

^Who needs background colors? These kids don't!

^Dare I say this little guy might break a few hearts someday!

^Such a little sweetie! She might break some hearts too!

^Haley is well prepared for my "sassy pose" request now!

^Silly face from Haley!

^Awww, they like each other!!!

^Getting ready for the Christmas card season!

^I love this one of them!

^Getting a little more silly now! Haha!

^See?!? We are climbing everything now!

^We had to get Mom in at least a couple shots this time!

^This is after (and before!) a game of "knock your sibling off of the cement curb" :-)

^Haha, you guys are so much fun!

Ryan & Alexys

2011-11-11T15:46:00.000-05:00

November 5, 2011

This past summer, at her brother's wedding, Nichole suggested later this year I take some photos of her family. We FINALLY got around to it, although her husband is out of town currently... so we decided to do some photos of just their kids, Ryan and Alexys. Due to some schedule rearranging, our session started at 10am. And it was COLD! Ryan and Alexys were surrounded by frost, and in their awesome outfits wouldn't be appreciated inside their coats. Instead, we did quick sets of images and put them back in their jackets between shots.

Finally it warmed up, and we had a great time finishing up the session. We did some shots in the woods and founds another cool path out behind the high school, where we were doing our session. Ryan was being quite a ham, especially near the end. And Alexys was totally rocking her new boots. It's always fun to get to work with older kids who don't mind having their photos taken. Thanks Nichole, I am glad we finally got to do this session. And thanks to my subjects, Ryan and Alexys. You guys are awesome!

^I felt so bad... look how freezing they are!!!

^Look at that cool frost. We got lucky, despite the cold.

^Totally cool kids.

^REAL smiles after Ryan made a funny face!

^This young man is going to drive the girls crazy someday!

^This is our in-between norm, warming up in the coats.

^LEAPING!

^Beautiful young lady!

^Little stud muffin.

^Great job, guys!

Chris + Karla: A Wedding (Addison Oaks Wedding Photographer)

2011-11-09T13:50:00.000-05:00

October 22, 2011

Every now and then, no matter how hard you try, you just can't make your schedule match with a couple's, and you don't get a chance to meet before their wedding day. That happened more frequently to me in past years, and I try to prevent it now as I grow as a wedding photographer. But as the case went with myself, Chris and Karla, it just wasn't meant to be. Karla and I spoke on the phone a few times to iron out a few details, but that was the extent of it. It wasn't until the big day that I met the two of them.

The wedding was held at Addison Oaks in Leonard (which is near Rochester), Michigan. If you remember WAY back in 2009, I did Ryan & Jessica's wedding there... still one of my favorites from back in the day. I was SO excited to shoot there again, as it is an amazing location. Even though we were at the end of October, the sun was out, the temp wasn't too chilly, and Addison Oaks was gorgeous, as usual. We worked with the guys before the girls arrived, got them dressed and photographed in time for the late ceremony. Even though it was a little chilly, it went off without a hitch in the courtyard.

By the time the wedding was over, the late October sun was already setting. I've never had to do an entire couple portrait session in the dark, but I suppose there's a first time for everything! Even though I don't particularly like shooting in the dark, our location made it a whole lot easier with all the ambient light available in the background. Since I've learned a few tricks in the past few years when it comes to light, we were able to make the most of it.

Enjoy the photos! It's my last wedding of the year, and it makes me sad, even though I'm ready for a break! Thanks to Chris and Karla for making my last one of 2011 a good one!

^Gorgeous location on a gorgeous day... what luck!

^Chris likes to fish.

^All the centerpieces were pumpkins covered in sparkles. Love it.

^Chris told me he's not a big photo guy, but he knew it had to be done. Thanks Chris!

^Our pretty bride finally arrives!

^Bridesmaid flasks... classic.

^Karla, you are so pretty!!!

^One of my favorites!!!

^I forget what was so funny! Haha.

^The bridal party after dark.

^So lucky with all that ambient light.

^This is a throwback shot from two years ago! Look it up.

^Kind of love that bit of motion blur in the background.

^Nice shot of a smooch by Josh.

^Love it when people spice things up. The father/daughter dance started out normal, and then they broke into a special routine!

^The back to normal! Great job, you two!

^Party time!

Availability of High Resolution Discs from Sessions

2011-11-08T13:51:00.001-05:00

New policy begins on January 1, 2012

Due to an increase in people wanting high resolution disc images of their sessions (of all kinds), I am implementing a new policy to make this happen. I've upgraded my policy and added a few other options to keep things cost effective and to fit each client's needs perfectly!

Hi-res discs will always come with reproduction rights. This is NOT copyright. You are given the rights to reproduce images for personal use ONLY, while still allowing me to keep the rights of use for myself as well. It's so nice to share! When you purchase the disc, a page will arrive with the disc stating your rights to get your images printed wherever you like (although I suggest http://www.unitprints.com/ for some good, professional, and cost effective prints).

All your options are outlined below:

Option 1 (for weddings ONLY): All wedding packages come with a high resolution disc of all edited images and reproduction rights. You do NOT need to add this to your package (valued at $200).

Option 2 (for regular portrait clients): You may purchase the hi-res disc with reproduction rights of all edited images for $200 with any print order of $100 or more (to clarify, that is a total of $300 for disc and any prints you choose). This is best if you wish to print 5x7, 8x10, or 11x14 images. Please consult me with images of 11x14 or bigger to ensure higest quality!

Option 3 (for regular portrait clients): You also have the option to purchase a disc of 4x6 sized images (all the edited images at standard 4x6 print size), also with reproduction rights. This disc is only $100 with any print order of $100 ore more (total $200). Perfect for regular sized prints or web sharing.

Option 4 (for engagement clients): A special deal applies to your engagement photos if you are booking your wedding with Jenna Rose Photography. You may purchase your hi-res disc with reproduction rights for $200 without a print order required. This is available ONLY if you book your wedding with JRPhoto.

Option 5 (for engagement clients): If you wish to purchase the 4x6 disc of your engagement images, and you are booking your wedding with Jenna Rose Photography, the price is $100 with no other print purchase required.

Please remember that your disc is subject to the standard 6% sales tax as per usual. Thank you all! Feel free to ask me questions if you have any! Have a wonderful day.

DeMari: Class of 2012

2011-11-03T09:56:00.001-04:00

October 30, 2011

DeMari's mom, LaTanya, and I have been trying for months to get our schedules to match up. And finally, we succeeded! This past Sunday, I met them to do DeMari's senior portraits in downtown Grand Rapids. DeMari was a great subject. He was a great sport for the photos, great at posing, and had a perfect assortment of smiles and serious faces for me. A natural!

We wandered around by the Ford Museum and the river, then headed into the city for a few shots around. I wanted so badly to find this cool blue tile wall I've seen in shots, but I still have no idea where it is! Oh well, we found a nice bright blue painted one that worked well instead. Thanks to both LaTanya and DeMari for finally making this shoot work. DeMari, you were awesome! I can't wait to give you your finished package!

^DeMari plays football and basketball for the Kelloggsville Rockets.

^Rockin' the pigskin.

^What a good looking young man!

^We still had some fall colors to work with down by the river.

^Absolutely LOVE this shot!

^Outfit number three... DeMari does casual. Perfect.

^Amazing!

^So serious! Not everyone can pull it off, but DeMari... he's another story!

^Even though he does a great serious look, he's got a fab smile too!

Sneak Peak: Chris & Karla's Wedding

2011-11-02T08:50:00.000-04:00

October 22, 2011

Chris and Karla's wedding is coming along nicely, but until then...

Allie: Trash the Dress

2011-11-01T08:45:00.000-04:00

October 21, 2011

Something about those Kzoo girls... I just love them all! Allie found my website a year and a half ago and referred me to her good friend, Claire, one of my most fun weddings yet. Allie got married herself just this past June, and although she didn't have me as her photographer, she was still a great "fan" and referred another friend of hers to me for a wedding next August, Dustin and Caitlin. All three of these girls are great, fun, and adorable. So it only seemed right that I should finally get to take a few photos of Allie like I have of her friends. Since she has referred TWO weddings to me, her Trash the Dress session was on me this time!

Allie and her mom met me at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids. It was a VERY chilly day, all cloudy, but that's perfect lighting for photos! Allie was a trooper and hardly shivered at all throughout the shoot. Her wedding dress is just beautiful (and we kept it pretty clean), she had tons of awesome shoes, and we each had lots of props to put some color in the photos. All in all, it was a great time, and I'm so glad we finally got to get together. Thank you SOOOO much, Allie, for referring me to both Claire and Caitlin. I hope you love your photos (your are just gorgeous!!!), and I can't wait until the wedding next year!

^Rockin' the red shoes! Looking good, Allie!

^Gorgeous, Allie!

^One of my very favorites!

^Princess crown!

^So cold, and yet you'd never know it from looking at her!

^Love the colors.

^So many great shots under the willows.

^Wearing hubby's hat.

^Allie really did great with the "serious" shots, even though he smile is so natural!

^Before this umbrella became part of my Halloween costume... :-)

^A little bit of sassy!!!

Happy Halloween!!!

2011-10-31T10:36:00.000-04:00

October 31, 2011

I have loved this holiday since I was a little kid. My mom (who I recently found out really hates Halloween. Sorry Mom!) would always be so great about making our obscure Halloween costume ideas for my sister and I, and for years when I was younger, I would plan and put on a haunted forest for family members in honor of Halloween. Now that I'm an adult, my (former) roommate and I have put on FOUR Halloween parties in the last five years! It's a good excuse to make your friends dress up and take photos of them! Below are the great costumes from this Saturday's Haunted Halloween!

^Kristin's mother, Donna, playing the sad role of the Phantom of the Opera (winner of Scariest Costume).

^This is Jason, and he's a nice cowboy!

^John as the Scream guy... in a bathrobe? Hmmmm.

^My friend, Judy, stepping out of the Roaring 20s as a flapper.

^My boyfriend, Mike (also not a big Halloween guy), dressed up in his waders as a fisherman.

^Brady doing a pretty convincing Rauol Duke (winner of Funniest Costume)

^My photographer friend, Misty, is rocking out in her 80s garb!

^Our other friend, Kristin, as a Cigarette Girl (mostly offering candy :) (Winner of Most Creative Costume)

^My friend, Brian, as a fabulous 50s style accountant.

^My co-party planner, Oole (that's Kristin to you!), as Arwen, elf from Lord of the Rings.

^Oole's boyfriend, Andy, as Aragorn from Lord of the Rings. That's a SERIOUS sword there!

^And this is me! I'm a jellyfish (can you see it??!?). Yay!

Nick + Amber: Engaged (Lowell Wedding Photography)

2011-10-26T13:44:00.000-04:00

October 19, 2011

When Nick, a guy would I work with at my "regular" job, asked me if I could do his engagement photos for him, I was of course excited. I always love working with people I know. It's a fun way to get to know them a little better and show them my "photo girl" side. Nick is a great guy, and although I've only ever met his fiance, Amber, in passing a couple times, I had a blast taking their photos for them. I chose the location, Fallesburg Park in Lowell, with hopes that the trees on the river valley would still have kept their leaves after all the wind we had that weekend... as you will see, I was wrong. However the subdued light and the gray background actually made for a great shoot.

Nick had another Lowell location in mind for us, so we, in our three cars, went in search of it. Well, it turns out it was in an entire other part of the area, and instead we stopped by the home of a coworker of Nick's and mine. He wasn't home, but his wife was and let us use their backyard for a few more shots before we wrapped things up. The light was almost gone by then, so we only got a few, but it was worth the stop anyway.

Thanks to Amber and Nick for letting me be a part of your pre-wedding festivities. They will be getting married in Jamaica next October, I may need to discuss that further with them ;-) Congrats, you two!

^I kept putting poor Nick in these awkward positions, but these two still totally rocked it!

^REAL laughs, my favorite!

^I was going to put them back on the rocks, but Amber's shoes weren't having it. This was a fine compromise.

^So dang cute!

^You already saw the color version of this shot... totally my favorite!

^More laughs! Hehe.

^Trying to catch some of that dying light on top of the hill.

^LOVE!

^Thanks Nick and Amber! You totally made my evening!

Dustin + Caitlin: Engaged (Grand Rapids Wedding Photographer)

2011-10-25T09:08:00.000-04:00

October 16, 2011

October is a beautiful time of the year, but the weather is ALL OVER THE PLACE. Case in point, yesterday I posted my engagement session, it was chilly, windy, and cloudy. Made for great lighting but brrrrrrr! The very next day, we had somewhat warmer temps, beautiful sunshine, and just a bit of wind here and there. Two days later, another engagement shoot... cloudy, no breeze at all. Don't you just love Michigan?

Anyway, I was very excited to see Dustin and Caitlin again. We met at the beginning of the month where the officially booked me for their wedding next August (the week before Brent and Kaitlyn). I already love Caitlin. She's very organized and detail oriented, on top of everything! Just like I would be planning my own wedding! Not to mention she picked her wedding date partially because I was free on it. Thank you, dear! I was so anxious to do their shoot at Thome Farms in Comstock Park, where my assistant photographer, Kristin, and her family are in the apple business. It's a gorgeous place and we found some amazing locations to shoot.

We did some fun Save the Date images first. Caitlin made the adorable signs on her CriCut machine. They were so cute! We made sure to get a few good ones including the apples we were surrounded by. She and Dustin then followed us around the orchard, finding some amazing spots amongst the apple trees, the corn field, and we even found some gorgeous leaves that hadn't been knocked out by the wind yet! All and all, a great shoot.

Next August is going to be a blast with all these awesome couples! I have three weddings right in a row, so I'll be busy. Thanks Dustin and Caitlin for coming back up north to do the shoot with me. I absolutely love these images, and you guys too. Your order will be on it's way shortly!

^Guess who I'll be with on August 11th next year!

^Thanks to Kristin, for putting this huge box where we needed it!

^Trees with leaves still! Yay!

^I was giddy to find some of this gorgeous color!

^Featuring Kristin's "Apple Love" apple!

^The breeze was cooperating!

^This shot reminds me of something, but I just can't figure out what! I love it, eithe way!

^Hanging out, smooching in the corn :-)

^So cute! Love you guys!

Brent + Kaitlyn: Engaged (Grand Rapids Wedding Photographer)

2011-10-24T10:35:00.000-04:00

October 15, 2011

Brent and Kaitlyn spotted my work when they saw Charles and Jenna's wedding photos. Kaitlyn goes to school at CMU with Charles. And I'm so glad they found me! They chose me as their wedding photographer for next year and I was excited to meet them for their engagement shoot a couple weekends ago. Both Brent and Kaitlyn went to college (for their undergrad degrees) at Aquinas College in Grand Rapids. So while they both live out of town, they came back down to tour the campus for their photos.

Aquinas (celebrating their 125 year anniversary this year!) is a gem! Depsite being just east of downtown GR, I've never been there. I was so excited when I stopped by for a visit. The location is gorgeous, so many beautiful old buildings, with some new things thrown in here and there. I loved it, even in the high winds we had to put up with! We had so many great spots to take photos, I couldn't get enough. We also picked a great weekend to visit as it was the students' fall break. So we had lots of time to wander and very little distractions.

It was so fun chatting with Brent and Kaitlyn, snapping awesome photos of such a great couple and getting to chat about their August 2012 wedding. Afterwards, they were off to watch the UofM vs MSU game with friends, so we snuck in some sporty shots at the end! Thanks so much to the two of you for choosing me for your wedding and engagement photos. I can't wait to head up to Traverse City for the wedding next year!

^On the steps of the acedemic building... it was awesome!

^Cute!

^I LOVE ivy!!! See? Isn't it awesome?

^The wind kindly left a few nice leaves on the trees for us. Love the color!

^Perfect!

^Administrative office at Aquinas. Used to be someone's home. Amazing!

^Getting silly. Laughing shots are so fun because you break up the monotany of the sit-and-smile posing :)

^Alma mater!

^In honor of the MSU & UofM game that took place that day, we did a few sporty shots!

^Notice their jerseys... Save the Date! 08.20.12

Dustin + Kara: My Little Sister's Wedding

2011-10-20T14:43:00.000-04:00

September 17, 2011

It took me FOREVER (mostly because the fall is always my BUSIEST time of the year) but I finally found the time to edit my little sister, Kara, and her husband Dustin's wedding. It took place in mid September up near Frankfort, MI, which is a gorgeous area along the northwest side of the lower pennisula. The only other time I'd been there was in some dreary weather. It was great to see it in it's true form... gorgeous! The temperature was perfect, the sky clear, a beautiful day for a wedding.

We arrived the night before for the rehearsal dinner, and got up early to start the wedding festivities. Since I'm a wedding photographer, I was in charge of making sure all that happened and at least attempted to keep things on schedule. Two of my frequent assistants, Jessica Furrow (of Jess Furrow Photography) and Kristin Huyck (designer extraordinaire), were on hand to capture most of the day, the parts I couldn't do myself, as I was doubling as photographer and maid-of-honor all at once! We started getting ready in the salon, which unfortunately ran a little late, thus making us unable to do the girl's portraits. It didn't help that all the bridesmaid dresses were lace up... we had lots of helpful people there to make sure we got it done though! I had time to run to do the guys' portraits with Jess and get back in time for the ceremony.

The church was almost too small to hold all the guests that showed up, but it all worked out. Thankfully it wasn't too hot out or we would have sweat ourselves to death! The ceremony, officiated by Dustin's dad, Tom, was short and sweet, and pretty fun too. I even saw my dad tear up a little bit (he looked nice in his tux, by the way!). Afterwards, the couple greeted the guests and exited the premisis in my dad's 1967 Chevelle, but came back to do a load of family portraits at the church. The bridal party then rushed off to the beach for a few more photos and it was on to the reception!

Greystone Mansion was where we held the party. Dinner was fab, my speech went well (phew!) and we even finally had some time to get the girl's portraits in before it got too dark and we all started partying. It was great to see so many of my family members all in one place! I danced with my cousin Nicole, hung out with a few friends, and generally took the night off from photography from that point on. Jess and Kristin picked up the slack for me, thanks girls. Overall it was a good day, couldn't have gone much better. Thanks to everyone who was there! And congrats to Kara and Dustin!

^Our flower girl, Miss Madison, and her gift for being in the wedding... Kitty.

^Jess took this photo of Kara's hair in a box... extensions, that is.

^Kristin's awesome shot of Kara's shoes.

^Kara's dress, by Jess.

^Also love this one of her bow by Jess.

^Jess snaps Molly helping Kara put her necklace on.

^Danielle (Dustin's sister), Kara, Laura (Dustin's brother's girlfriend), and Ashley (Danielle's daughter).

^Cute one of Madi and Kara (by Kristin).

^Me having some fun with the bouquet.

^My Dad's Chevelle was the get-away car!

^My new brother-in-law.

^Dustin and my dad, Joe.

^Being that we were at a golf course, golf carts were a must.

^A great shot of the church by Kristin.

^My mom and Kara (by Jess)

^Some of Dustin's family (by Jess)

^The next few ceremony shots are by Jess.

^Kristin captures the first kiss from the balcony...

^...and gets this fun photo of my boyfriend, Mike, ringing the church bell to end the wedding.

^LOVE this shot Jess took of them walking back down the aisle.

^...and this one too.

^The shot of everyone in the two families.

^The wedding party (by Kristin).

^Having fun on the beach! (by Kristin)

^Cute one by Jess.

^My standard walking away shot :)

^Another good one by Jess.

^Looks like sunset! Not quite! (by Jess)

^Jess's shot of one of the centerpieces.

^Finally we make it outside for the girls' portraits (all by Jess)

^Got my camera back again... bridal portraits!

^This is me getting Kara to turn her head the right way. I am glad Jess took it! Love Kara's face!

^See? Perfect!

^Cake tasting ;)

^These figurine represent Ernie (the basset) and Kathy (the orange tabby) who couldn't make it to the wedding.

^Our awesome Grandma Wanda!

^First dance time.

^My last shot of the night... its a good one, so it's time for a break for me!

^A cute one of Madi by Kristin.

^Myself and cousin Jeff partying! Hope you all enjoyed the wedding!!!

Andrea: Class of 2012

2011-10-18T08:57:00.003-04:00

October 9, 2011

I love doing senior portraits, but it's not something I get to do too often. Most of my clients are engaged couples and young families. But I love photographing seniors and am more than happy to introduce to you my first 2012 senior, Andrea! She is a senior at Thornapple Kellogg High School down in Middleville. She's a very down-to-earth young lady and it was fabulous to do her headshots in the studio.

This is only part one of her session. We did the indoor shots first because Andrea would love to do a winter session, but she's got to get her yearbook headshot in before the snow will fall (hopefully, at least!). Andrea and her mom thought up a few great ideas to showcase what makes Andrea herself. She likes to draw and sketch, read, and she is also on the swim team at TKHS. So we made sure to include all this in her photos. Not to mention she's got a great smile, so that's makes her even easier to work with!

I am looking for to when Andrea will be back when the snow falls for the outdoor portion of her session. It will get me back to work during the slow season. Great idea, Andrea!

^Working on her latest creation...

^A girl after my own heart! :-)

^Her "dreamy" look. One of my faves!

^This shot was kind of a mistake with the flash, but I liked it anyway!

^Showing off that TK team spirit!

^Are we done yet... only for now! See you in the winter!