Abstract Art: Part 1

Have you ever heard of the secret sound on the radio stations? I love them, although I seldom listen to the radio now that I have an iPod. So to hold us over until I hit 400 posts I thought I would start a little blog competition. I'll take an abstract image of something. You have to tell in fairly good detail what it is. Don't be vague here, these aren't meant to be easy. I will give hints and/or vague direction when I think you need it.

So let's have a purse that grows. We'll start with a nice little $10 print credit and work our way up. Let's see how the guessing goes, but we may up it each guess or each day or something. Depending on how into it you all get. I'm not above this purse growing big as long as serious guesses are made. The credit may be used on previous or upcoming sessions/weddings or on a print of the abstract image for up to 30 days after you win.

Now don't try to be tricky and not guess until 4 weeks pass, cause well I'll just call the whole thing off. Post your guess in the comments (all anonymous guesses will be deleted) and you'll be able to track the previous guesses.

300.

Another day at the pool

In the midst of editing like crazy and filling orders I have been taking the evenings to play with my babe. So last night we headed to the pool once again. This time we brought Brayden and Ema with us and met Caden and Nash there.

Ema is training to be the next SI swimsuit model and the boys, well their just being boys.
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Pool Day

The Brookings Pool got a major overhaul this year and added a very fun area for the little ones. As well as some big slides for the older kids. We went yesterday evening during family time for a little fun. Here are my boys...

If he were smart...

... my hubby would find a way to strut around in uniform looking all authoritative on a regular basis. Yeah go ahead and laugh at me, but I guess I'm attracted to it. Here he is in his pt uiform of all things directing soldiers during a training exercise yesterday. Plus his nice legs were showing too. Shhhh. don't tell him.

Andy is a soldier at the 323rd Chemical Co. in Sioux Falls. He's been in the Army Reserve since he was 17. I met Andy while I was also in this unit about 7 or so years ago (maybe I should go check), so I know some of the other soldiers still. Well they busted their butts wearing plastic suits in the heat for the last four days getting certified to decontaminate us should something happen.

This training exercise was big! Other units, instructors, and the mock patients were all flown in. A general showed up. Real ambulances where on contract and helped make it all the more real. And the local news even showed up. I was impressed with the whole operation.

Here are some images. Andy, Barber and Wade. The last one I'm not sure who it is, but can you imagine being in that plastic suit with a gas mask on in the heat working? Not me, no thanks. I'm glad to be on the outside looking in now.

Great job everyone.

Intimates of J

I have done a few intimate sessions lately. Like everything else I don't blog them with out permission. But these need special approval, and for some I have to wait until after all the products are delivered and their dear husbands know about the little treat. Well I finally have one I can share. Just the unrecognizable parts for now.

Who's next?

South Dakota Boudoir Photography

Lake Day

We had some fun at the lake this weekend. Ayden so much that he stayed an extra night with the fam while I came home to work. Here are a few images.
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Friends

Well we've lived here forever now. And finally Ayden has gotten to make some friends. These are the Rehder children, which you see on my postcard coupons. And on here occassionally. They've become a bit of a model family for me too. For my forum buddies, they are my "Brackens". Well they came over to play as mom and dad celebrated their wedding anniversary with a pedicure after work. They also go to the same daycare as Ayden. Jessica is how I found out about Holly.

Anyway the perk to having Cory Ann watch your children... well images of course. Here they are.
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Happy Anniversary Andy and Jessica!

Music on Main again

Dennis and Daniel Bielfield entertained the crowd last night. They did a wonderful job. I wish I could play an instrument. Some people just have all the talent.

And you know where Ayden and I had dinner.

Wedding Tip: #2 Talk to your officiant

Yes I know this is a long time coming. I've been a bit busy. So anyway, wedding tip #2 is to talk with your officiant. In particular about your wants and desires about your wedding photography. Many churches or officiants will have their own rules about how the photographer must conduct themselves. Many of these rules have been established with out your wants in mind.

I will do my job however told, but if given the choice I would much prefer to have free reign. I very very seldom have used flash, only at the beginning and the end. So "no flash" is never a problem. It is when I am told to stay at one location in the rear of the church or to not have the camera seen as it is a distraction.

I have included some images from weddings where I have been allowed to roam and some where I haven't. In case you are thinking what are the drawbacks... if I am required to remain in one location at the rear of the church I will only be able to document from one angle and will be able to do little more than document the venue rather than the emotion you share. The first time I have ever been allowed behind the officiant was at Amber and Eric's wedding this year. O my gosh what a difference it made. Simply amazing how I was able to see their faces, the bridal parties faces, their parents faces, the guests watching on. The images really do make the ceremony coverage 100 times better.

I do my best to be as discrete as possible. At our wedding the photog was all over and even behind the minister and you know what, we were too wrapped up in the happenings to be distracted by it. After the fact I'm pleased to have those images. I think the big distraction usually comes to the officiant. And I think (sorry if I offend here) they should suck it up and do their job it's not their day.

Keep in mind if you want me to stay at the rear for personal or religious reasons I will do that no complaints. I just want you to be aware of what you could otherwise get. Please let me know if you have any questions or would like me to also communicate with your officiant.

If any of you want to chim in about your experience one way or the other that would be great. Give me some more bride insite please.
CA

1. St. Joseph Cathedral in Sioux Falls: allows me to roam all over, just be respectful and stay off the altar. It's large enough that I can do this and still get wonderful images.

2 & 3. The view from the rear of the church where I was told to stay. I wasn't even allowed in the aisles or sides. Sometimes I can get some cool images from back there and do every wedding. I can also zoom, but it's just not the same as being right there for those big moments.

4 & 5. Photographed from the very front of the church. I was allowed complete reign to go anywhere. I love that I was able to get Amber and Eric's expressions as well as the family. And I do have one awesome images of the entire church from back there and wow! Can you imagine what I would have missed standing in the back?

Today

Today Colton came to visit and since he's getting close to 6 months I got a few images of him. Here he is getting bigger. He is such a happy baby, I had him giggling like crazy.
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My boy

Cause I know you just can't get enough Ayden.
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3 girls

What do these three girls have in common, other than being georgous and photographed by me of course? Stay tuned to find out.
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Isabelle 07.18.06

Today with the help of Ayden we were able to capture the many faces of the darling Isabelle. Ayden says he's going to marry her. Holly and I are both ok with that. Except I do think she is going to be high maintenance. We love her all the same.

Happy Birthday Luke!

Holly, thank you for taking such fabulous care of my baby!
CA

PS. Ayden says you both are beautiful.

Chantelle + Ben 07.15.06

You know you two had to pick the absolute hottest day of the year (112deg). That's ok, it matched your hottness!

After a wonderful start to the day with a flat tire, Becky (my new assistant- I need to get a pick of) and I still managed to get there an hour early as planned. And no I did not drive that fast. So since we were early and unpacked we headed from the church over to Chantelles childhood home for some getting ready pics.



The plan was to do the formals half before and half after. Well with the heat we opted not to do any before. I promised Chantelle and Ben that I would get them done very fast. And while I thought I had taken longer than anticipated Chantelle told me she didn't even have time to get frustrated. Well looking back at the images it's because it took us a record 11 minutes for the all the normal groups. Howz' that?

Ok so back to the day. The ceremony was short and sweet. I loved the rings being on a big ring rather than a pillow. Too cool! After the ceremony and formals we headed out to the reception in Huron. We did stop along the way for an image in the sunflowers. (Anyone know why they all face away from the sun?) I loved it when one of the bridesmaids said do you want something under your dress and Chantelle replied it didn't matter now.... That's my girl! I thought. Last we played in Huron for some final images. Loved all the opportunities there. I'm hoping to shoot there again.

As we arrived at the Crossroads Hotel and Huron Event Center I was amazed at how lovely it was decorated. Chair covers always dress up a room and these were adorned with beautiful pink bows. The centerpieces with wonderful candle holders that had an antique feel. And since the electricity went out for a short period of time they provided the perfect ambiance. Location can be everything, but it also must be decorated well. And this was exceptional.

As we were leaving the dance floor was packed and everyone was enjoying themselves to the fullest. Thank you Chantelle and Ben for choosing us to be part of your day. Can't wait till the bridal session!
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Music on the slideshow is kindly provided by: Micah Wetzel

Berreths 07.14.06

Friday evening the Berreths and I went for a little jaunt in the fields. Here is the result.
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We're getting close...

... to that big 300 post. I know some of you haven't read all the old archives, so for you newbies blog junkies out there, go back to June and you will see.

Now let's up the anti. How bout we make this a nice 8x12 image. Yeah I know it's an odd size, but I'm an in-camera cropper and this is the standard ratio. Heck maybe I'll even throw in a mat if I am able to breathe (from under my pile of work) at that time. And I've been trying to take some more abstract/random stuff for all you out there that haven't had a session with me yet.


On another note:

- I've got some great new wedding and portrait products in the works. Call, e-mail or schedule an appointment to see. They rock!
- Graduate special still in effect. Call for details.
- $25 off coupons are located in many Brookings businesses to include: Tuli, Bloomingvilla, Hagmans, Mad Jacks, The Ritz, Sunflower and I think a few more.
- Calling all you ladies who can still fit into your wedding gown. If you are willing to get that bad boy dirty, wet or just completely demolished give me a call we can work something out. I have some ideas burning inside and should have time soon for some fun shoots. This is open to everyone. You do not have to be one of my past or future couples. If you want to do something a little fun, get a bit more use out of all that material, then lets create some kick a** images.

Ok, off to bed. Big wedding tomorrow. Have a wonderful weekend!
CA

And since no post is complete with out an image. Here is Andy when Ayden was 3 months old leaving for active duty (stateside). Taken with my point and shoot and published in the Army Times. Long before I ever thought about doing this as a career.

Danae + John 07.13.06

Another beautiful evening and fabulous couple. I love e-shoots! They are so fun and these two had me laughing the whole time. I'm just happy the images are in focus... it's hard to hold a camera still and laugh at the same time you know. Here they are. I'll save the hot stuff for later.
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Alicia 07.11.06

Yesterday I had the pleasure of photographing another beautiful graduate. Here are two of my favorites.
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PS. I'm offering a couple of grad specials so be sure to call and ask.

Sara + Jack 07.08.06

Love, lots and lots of it! There was so much love between these two, their family and their friends. You couldn't help but tell how much everyone loved these two. If I could really ask for one thing at a wedding it would be for the love to show... becuase the camera does see it.

Do not blink or you will miss Wilno. I did. But fortunately I left in enough time to still get there on time. Sara told me I couldn't miss the church, it was the only one. Really though she failed to tell me I could miss the town. I just had to laugh, because I didn't think the blink thing would ever be true.

At the church we did the formals very quickly and tucked away and waited until the start of the ceremony. The flowers by Main Street Florist in Hendricks were lovely. And their custom designed programs showed how a simple clean layout can look so lovely. I did get to sneak Sara off to this little area with incredible light while we waited. I think these two just have fab light following them, there e-shoot was the same way.

After the ceremony we left with the bridal party to take some fun images on the way to the reception. It was a bright sunny day and the sky was as blue and clear as could be. The wind turbine of MN served as our backdrop, along with their Camero SS

as a prop. Love this car! Panty dropper indeed.

The reception was at the Swiftel Center. This was the first time I have photographed a reception at the Swiftel Center. I was pleasantly surprise that this typically sterile room was transformed into a lovely reception site. The light was beautiful once again. And Sara being the smart woman she is took my Wedding Tip #1 and put the head table in the center of the room. They had all the details perfect... small cute little floral arrangements on each table to go with the tall center pieces which create an opportunity for guests to see and talk to each other. A kids station with crayons, coloring pages and a word search. A candy station, complete with candy necklaces, hard candy sticks and rock candy, The big and little kids alike both loved this!

It was wonderful! The speeches were amazing. Both families share and show so much love for each other and their children. It just radiated throughout the room. These two have wonderful role models and they knew it and appreciated it. I can't wait to work/play with these people again next year!

Sara and Jack you two are amazing, thank you so much for making me feel so welcome and allowing me to share your day. I'm looking forward to your bridal session! In the meantime here is a brief view of your day.
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The H Family 07.10.06

4, yes can you believe it 4 kids? They wore me out and I was only there for 2 hours. Teresa, you go girl!

Here are the H Four. Little Luke is the newest edition and was so mild mannered and let all the others just move him around like crazy. I think he will be the calm in the storm.
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Emerson 07.10.06

Patience is a virtue when photographing babies. I love it when they are sleeping. Once Emerson got to sleep I got to have a bit of fun. Such a sweet little girl.
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Brookings Arts Festival

Yesterday Ayden and I went to the Brookings Summer Arts Festival. We go every year. It is a good time, if you haven't gone I would suggest getting there next year. They not only have some amazing artists and craftsman, but also entertainment for the whole family and some reinactment people.

Here are some images of some of my clients I happened upon and some of my favorite vendors.

I've linked to some really cool artists as well. This image of the patterns is a plate, all done with glass over glass. One of my favorite pieces.

Ayden in an Easy Times chair. We now have three of these. They fold up great as Ayden demonstrates, are waterproofed and just plain cool.

O and the girls sporting their ac ellis tattoos. Way to go girls!

If a stranger took your picture or a pic of your kids it was probably me, just e-mail and describe what you were wearing and who you are and I'll e-mail you the image.
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Waterfield Young Amazing Art with Paper
Steel and Stone Wonderful metal work of trees, awesome.
Snyder Studios Metal work again. I love metal.
Cronin Art Metal and glaze paint.
Easy Times Chairs

Music on Main

Last Thursday Ayden and I stumbled upon Music on Main. We had a good time sitting and listening to the music in the wonderful summer evening weather. So we decided to go again this week. And I was sure to bring my camera.

If your interested it is every Thursday night from 5-7 right next to Nick's Hamburger Shop, until August 24. It's a great outing for young and old! And there are hamburgers near by at Nick's and ice cream at The Lodge. Next week Dennis and Daniel Bielfield.

One of my favorite things about downtown Brookings in the summer.... The flowers!

From Denise (friendof Carrie + Ernie)

I came home this evening to read this wonderful e-mail. After reading it I had to go back and look at my images to make sure she was talking about me. It gave me goosebumps

Denise, thank you so much for your kind words. They are greatly appreciated, you are too kind. And thank you for recommending me.

You asked that I add it to my Cari and Ernie blog, but I thought it deserved it's own.
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(Please add this to your Cari and Ernie blog.)

"Wow. I applaud this photographer. She's a true artist. She not only turned the stark, Wyoming environment into a fascinating melange of raw grit versus feminine fairy tale beauty - she created a National Geographic winning, photo documentary of "love in the plains..." From the saturated colors and drama of the outdoors - to the wedding venue itself, so lovely in it's pure simplicity and white light, both were captured with an acute sensitivity to "place" and with such creative flair - the contrasts between the two, matching so perfectly their personalities. The close up images of the still life, rival Martha Stewart's best and the poignancy of the found moments caught between the couple - breathe life into the day of union between these two people whom we care for deeply. Most importantly - they both look gorgeous. One cannot walk away from these images without a tug at the heart, feeling as though they were there, and that it was special. "

Corey Ann - you did a fantastic job. From one professional "location" and people photographer to another - I applaud you! I had a hand in choosing you above the others, and am thrilled to see the results of your "art" exceeding our already high expectations. Thank you for taking such great care of our very dear friends, Cari and Ernie - and for treating all of us who couldn't be there to this visual feast and your fabulous eye.

Sincerely,

Denise George

Camilla 07.07.06

My couples are making the most beautiful babies!

I photographed Joe and Linde's wedding last year and this evening I had the pleasure of photographing their first born, Camilla. What a little sweetie. I love newborn babies, their soft skin and little bitty feet. So sweet.

Here are a couple to hold those grandma's over.
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The Fabulous Jim

I am so fortunate to be a photographer, not only because I get to have so much fun on the job, but becuase I get to pick and choose from the best photographers around to do our images. I have been begging Jim of Fuglestad Photography to do our portraits for some time now. He is simply fabulous and his style is all his own and is a reflection of what we love!

A few weekends ago, on my first free weekend since the first of May, Andy, Ayden and I took a little mini vaction to MN. We went to the zoo, the museum and got to BBQ and swim with a wonderful group of photogs I am proud to call my friends. Well Verna went with us to the zoo ( and I'll share her images soon) and before we headed out of town Jim took us on a little photo shoot.

It was so much fun and Jim is fab. I can't wait to plaster these all over my house. If you are going to the cities schedule an appointment with him! It is well worth it.

Here is a link to them all. Hope you love them like I do. Thanks Jim your the best.
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Cari + Ernie 07.01.06

OMG What a trip! I left Friday for Douglas, WY for Cari and Ernie's wedding. It was a long drive, but I still had some life in me and after checking in to the B&B and got to meet them for the first time at the hall. I felt so honored that they decided to bring me all that way to photograph their wedding!

Wanna hear something cool? Doing not one single formal image was AWESOME!

So your wondering what we did then aren't you? Well we spent about 30-45 minutes on location after the ceremony with the B&G and the bridal party. Other than that all the family and friend images were taken through out the reception as they mingled. It was so much fun and I like the images so much better. Now to get more of you to do this.... it saved a lot of time too by the way.

Everything about this wedding was so personal. Ernie's dad was the preacher. Many members of the families sang (including Ernie), Cari chose every last little detail down to the confetti with their images on them.

This was a wonderful celebration and I was lucky to be part of it.... other than Eric and Dan of course (just kidding guys). O there are stories to be told here. Too funny, I'm laughing thinking of them.

And then the next day I got to finish up with a day-after shoot. This was another cool thing. Even though I had to combat the high sun and WY heat it was fun to go out and about to get some more images in their attire. Very worth it!

It was a great time, thank you for having me! Your slideshow.
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Independence Day

Here's a little post to hold you over while I prepare some images from my weekend wedding. After driving back all night on Sunday I relaxed Monday by only downloading and trying to catch up on all my missed sleep. And then when Andy came home form work we headed to the lake for a wonderful holiday celebration. Here are some pics for you. Check out Ayden's long hair, he's getting curls like his dad. It sprinkled and the boys played with my oversized umbrellas. And then of course there were the fireworks. The last image is lit only by the fireworks going off above.

I know there are a lot, but I haven't posted any of Ayden in so long.... been busy with weddings.
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