Creative Image Collections

New BLOG!!!

2007-07-09T14:56:00.000-05:00

Hi there! I am very excited to share with you my NEW BLOG! Like I said below...I have been working very hard the past few months on planning all the new changes and they are, little by little, falling into place. I hope you will follow along with me on my journies! Enjoy!

Creative Image Collections

2007-07-07T10:56:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to share that I have technically changed the name of my business and have received the okay from The State of Connecticut!!! Very exciting for me as this marks a milestone in my career. A few years back when I started my business (from scratch...literally) I had wanted to pick a name that was a bit more catchy than my actual name, Megan LaBarbera Photography. BORING!!!!
No offense to my husband (sorry hon!) but LaBarbera isn't really the easiest name to remember or even say. In fact most phone calls I get people sorta just stumble over the last name hoping that I won't notice the fact that they completely messed it up. It really doesn't bother me though! So don't feel bad if you happen to do it too! I am very easy going :o)
So for years I racked my brain and I came up with CREATIVE IMAGE COLLECTIONS.
But I had to wait for the right time to change it. So here we are. Officially I have changed the name. I have a graphic designer, Lauren Gardner, who has designed a really sweet logo for me. Anyone that wants her contact info just let me know! She is an excellent designer and super nice too! A great mix.
Anyhow, I am planning on making this a very gradual transition and will actually be keeping my website address the same for the next year! I will slowly be introducing the changes over the next year and have been working super hard on adding a bit of flair (like from the movie Office Space) to my business. So keep checking back to see what changes I will be making along my journey!

Jessica and Edward: Married March 9th...Partied May 28, 2007

2007-07-02T22:08:00.000-05:00

On May 28th I shot Jessica and Ed's reception held at the Fox Hill Inn in Brookfield, CT. The couple got married on March 9th of this year in Bora Bora...Lucky ducks! They had a private and intimate ceremony on the beach and the pictures were so beautiful and romantic. It was just the two of them!
Although I wasn't present for their ceremony (I will have to speak to them about that :o) I was able to be a part of another special day for them...their reception! It was so much fun and I got to see my long lost friend Gabby (from my senior portrait session back in April), who just so happens to be her sister! It was a fun event and it was a beautiful and special day!
And since they are A-1 clients...I gave them a top-dog blog! Enjoy!
-meg

The beautiful bride...Jessica

I love this image. Think maybe because of the lighting...

The handsom groom Ed...

Sometimes right before the kiss is the best pic ;o) It usually provides a very sexy, passionate feel to the image!

the Fox Hill Inn

Seeing that they got married on the beach...the favors were very appropriate.

the cake...

for some reason I just like this one...

A private toast with the girls a few minutes before entering the reception...

Here is Gabby singing her heart out! She sang the FEVER song and a beautiful solo for her sister that made me secretly cry! I sometimes can't help it at weddings...I am a sucker for emotional stuff. ;o)

The couple's first dance...

The bride's mom shared a little dance with Jessica!

the bride sharing a moment with one of her self-appointed bridesmaids!

Cutting the cake!

Jessica sharing a dance with her grandpa and Ed is in the background dancing with her grandmother...a very nice moment.

I love this shot of Jessica...

What little girl doesn't like to have a twirl with the bride? I know I thought brides were cooler than cool when I was little.

And a cute snap shot of the bride and groom getting their picture taken-so cute!

Thanks Jessica and Ed...Congratulations!

Vickie and Jeff: Married May 12th

2007-06-19T15:55:00.000-05:00

Vickie and Jeff got married on May 12th at the Waterview in Monroe CT. It was a very fun wedding and I got a lot of great shots for them to enjoy for years to come! I started over at Vickie's parent's house in Newtown CT. Here, which had some cool backgrounds for me to use for some detail shots!

Vickie is the one on the right! ;o)

A cool shot of the dress of one one of the bridesmaids on some really cool stairs!

Another against some pretty cool furniture...

the bride...

the shoes...

when I was trying to hunt for a cool shot of the rings I stumbled upon a picture frame, so there you have it!

the flowers...

Jeff arrived in an antique car that basically was just about the coolest of cool cars...here he is at the wheel...

The waterview has some cool architecture to it...

and they passed out these refreshingly colorful drinks to guests before the ceremony began...

I like this shot of vickie right before she headed out to the ceremony...She looks so excited!

I believe this was the part of the ceremony in which it was discovered that a certain someone (not mentioning any names ;o) left the bride and groom's rings at a location other than where they should have been...if you notice you can see the reaction on the best man's face to the left :o) I have to say that was the first wedding I photographed in which the rings went MIA...

Using some architecture at the Waterview...

And a decor shot as well...

Vickie and her Dad during their dance together!

And a couple of fun shots of the bride and some friends cutting up the dance floor!

Congrats Vickie and Jeff!

Family Portrait

2007-06-04T19:59:00.000-05:00

A couple weeks ago I shot a fun family portrait in Newtown CT. These two boys were the most well behaved kids I have met in a long time! Not only that but they are super handsome and lots of fun! I always love shooting sessions with kids because they are usually doing something adventurous and kid-like! They make a good team! :o)

The fam:

There were some discoveries along the way ;o)

I'd say he got some good height with that jump!!!

And some good ole swinging your little brother around!

I had lots of fun and hope you did too!

Teresia and James: Engaged!!!

2007-05-25T20:47:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday I got the espleasure of shooting Theresias and Jim's engagement session in Brookfield CT right by Candlewood Lake. This was an extra special engagement session since it was Theresias Birthday! Happy Birthday again!!! It was also extra special because Theresias and I used to work together a while back. And here we are again, crossing paths!!! I am so happy that she has found Jim, and they were so fun to shoot. They were so comfortable in front of the camera and were such naturals. I also got to see Marie, who I also worked with, and she was shooting me while I was shooting them! It was so much fun! The location was at a neighbors of Marie's and the home was absolutely gorgeous with lake views beyond belief!
So enjoy...

I think they look so cute here!

They started dancing right on the dock...I was all for them jumping in too so I could get some action shots...but oh well ;o)...maybe on the wedding day?!!!

Thanks for spotting the little people Marie!

There was a cute little dog there at the house...

Can't wait for July guys! Hope you had fun!

Coffee Table Book: Senior Portrait Session

2007-05-16T21:18:00.000-05:00

I shot a senior portrait session for Gabby a few weeks ago and I was so pleased with the images that I decided to make it into an album. I am offering a new album, which will be an alternative to the Leather Craftsmen Albums that I offer now. This album is a 14 page/28 sided album that has magazine style pages. It is the perfect gift for that graduating high school senior that you love dearly! :o) They are also a great alternative to parent albums and guest books (for all those future brides out there). If you are interested in viewing one feel free to give me a call or contact me through my site and we can set something up! Enjoy!
Now, tomorrow in between about 10 a.m. and Noon I should be expecting a call from my mom pointing out what words I have misspelled, as that seems to be the routine of things! ;o) So---how did I do ma?

Here ya are...the blank pages are the inside covers of the album...

Gabby:Senior Portrait Session {Part 2 of 2}

2007-05-09T22:37:00.000-05:00

This is the second half of a senior portrait session that I had with Gabby- a fun, easy-going, talented and beautiful High School Senior. The images I got were amazing, but I honestly have to leave the credit to Gabby herself, since she did all the work and I was the lucky one who got to just press the shutter on my camera! I rarely had to tell her to do stuff...She was a natural natural and as you can tell...the camera loves her!

When I met Gabby at the M.A.C counter where we got her make-up done, the first thing she said was that she was having a blonde moment and that she forgot all her clothes. Minor detail and a blessing in disguise, since I then got to scope out her closet, which is way big, and pick out stuff Iliked! I found these funky shoes...it was like I struck gold! :o)

The last location we shot at was a small field up on a hill right across from my neighborhood. The light right before sunset is always warm and is great for photographing in. I was a bit worried about little creatures roaming around in the tall grass...but that is the price you pay to get a good shot!

This is moving back into the beginning of the shoot at the trailor...sorry not in order ;o)

And another series with some dress action...

Gabby: Senior Portrait Session {Part 1 of 2}

2007-05-08T22:15:00.000-05:00

Okay...Here is the story! I met Gabby in American Eagle last year or the year before-I forget. We were both out shopping with our mom's, who work together, and to make a long story short, the second I saw Gabby I knew I had to ask her if I could take pictures of her sometime for my portfolio. It took me a LONG time to finally ask her. I am a big dork and was afraid she'd say "NO...GO AWAY!!!" but she didn't! In fact she was very excited about it. So for a long time I kept in touch with her about it and then the day finally came. I hooked her up with an awesome Danbury Macy's M.A.C makeup artist, named Kristin (who I highly recommend by the way-very good and super sweet :o) We were blessed with gorgeous & sunny afternoon light, my favorite!
Gabby was the BEST to work with. She jumped right in and did everything I asked her to do which made for some great shots. This is the first set...tomarrow or Thursday I will be blogging the 2nd Half. So here ya are...

This is a trailor I found on State Street in Danbury, behind Walgreens on Main ST.
As soon as I saw It I knew that was stop number 1!

Who Knew her eyes were the identical color of the trailor? Not me...seriously ;o) It was a very pleasant surprise!

This was in back of St. Peter's school...in a quiet little nook.

I think Gabby looks like an ABERCROMBIE model here...could be the shirt but I am thinking more like the hair ;o)

This picture was actually taken at the very end of our shoot and I knew we were both exhausted, but I had her run for me anyway...down the hill that is...four times! I love this picture because it really captures her free spirit...something I have always admired in people!

I saw the Van Halen Logo on the walls of St. Peter's School, which may be considered a no-no...but I liked it and Gabby agreed to liking Van Halen. In fact she is a musician herself...

A series...

And a series of probably my most favorite pictures ever so far...The Hair Toss...which is a great way to relieve any bottled up energy you may have! I asked her to swing her hair around and I figured she might not be that into it...but as you can see...

...she was!

And so this concludes my entry for today...the rest of the shoot will be blogged tomarrow or Thursday! So stay tuned!

Thanks again Gabby, and I don't think you'll have any problems fitting in with those pretty blondes you were talking about in California!

Hair Shoot

2007-05-01T20:32:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I had the opportunity to shoot for a hair stylist who wanted to put together a portfolio for herself. Lauren is a super talented, young and hip stylist who does magic with hair! She organized this whole thing and even put out a spread of food for her models! Her friend, Lindsey, did the makeup and Lauren cut, colored, and styled all the hair!
Here are a few...

I just think the sissors in the pouch were neat!

An awesome color job and I just like the way the hair is angled and falls off the shoulders...perfection!

This is what I would call a sexy, touseled and playful up do. I love it!

There were a couple guys too...

And a couple short do's that made me want to cut my hair again!

A shot I just thought was cool.

This to me says fresh, clean, fun!

Lindsey, the make-up Art-teest...

And the magic hair stylist...Lauren...

Thanks so much Lauren! I had a great time doing your shoot!

Happy Birthday!

2007-05-01T20:20:00.000-05:00

This entry is a bit late going up, but better late than never. I shot a First Birthday Party for this handsome little one below. It was a lot of fun. Great food, swimming, and some killer cake!

Who doesn't love goodie bags? Especially ones with a cool pair of shades!

Elmo dropped in for a visit!

M's expression when watching Elmo...

Happy First Birthday!

Leah and Corey

2007-04-16T20:09:00.000-05:00

Saturday I had a fun engagement shoot at Wickham Park in Manchester, CT with Leah and Corey. They are getting married this July and I can't wait for the big day! They picked a great spot for some engamement photos! So here are a few of my favorites...

We shot on the 14th of April...hence the number marker...unfortunately the numbers stopped at 16 and they are getting married on the 21st of July. So this way, they will always remember what day we shot on!

Some of the very few green trees around...I took advantage!

The ring!

Leah has great hair...

As soon I drove by this "Thing" (binoculars???), as I would call it, I wanted to incorporate it into a picture or two somehow...the result...

Thanks Leah and Corey...I am looking forward to July!!!

Time Line!!! (Steph and Kevin)

2007-04-13T13:42:00.000-05:00

This is just something I couldn't help add to the post! It is a tradition, as I understood it, to down some colorful alchoholic beverages when one of the guys gets hitched!!! It is put together in a time-line form so you can share in their festivities!!! Click on the image below to enlarge!

Stephanie and Kevin

2007-04-13T12:48:00.000-05:00

I was so excited to be shooting Stephanie and Kevin's wedding on March 31st, because not only did I know a few of their friends and groomsmen, but also because I grew up spending lots of time at the church where their ceremony took place, St. Gregory the Great Chuch in Danbury. I went to Kindergarten through 8th grade there and it brought back good memories for me! I also enjoyed shooting their wedding because they seem to really appreciate the important things in life, such as friends and family! What a fun occassion it was. You could feel the LOVE in the air!!! Like always, I was happy and honored to be a part of it!
So here are a few of my favorites of the day!!!

The flowers were so gorgeous:

Steph's dress, which she had made from scratch, had a silk bow that was as smooth as butter...

The men wore pin stripes and looked very sharp!

Kevin...the groom...

A fun shot of the men at the church...

The rings...

All the little ones in the wedding party were so adorable and fun to photograph...here is a really cute shot I couldn't resist posting...

Stephanie and Kevin christened my new Polaroid camera that I bought! We used it just to add some fun stuff into their portraits...

I love Steph's expression here...

The cake...

And a detail shot of their reception at The Fox Hill Inn in Brookfield, CT.

Congratulations Stephanie and Kevin!!! I hope you enjoyed your Honeymoon!!!

Jill and Simon

2007-04-03T21:16:00.000-05:00

I had the pleasure of shooting the wedding of Jill and Simon on Saturday, March 24th at the First Congregational Church in Norwalk, Connecticut and then at the Greentree Country Club in New Rochelle, New York. Their wedding was such a joy to shoot as many great photo opportunities arose all day and into the night! I love that about weddings. They are such a happy and exciting occassion and I always feel so honored to be a part of it! Jill and Simon are such a great couple and after shooting their engagement session back in October I knew this was going to be fun!!! Anyone who knows Simon knows how funny he is and how Jill and him bring out the best in each other! I had a blast! So here are a few to share with you...enjoy!!!

A shot of her dress:

Jill was so cute trying to get into her dress...

She has a very graceful/classic bride look here!

Jill looking absolutely stunning...

A couple detail shots...the rings...

The boquet:

Simon looking snazzy!

As I pointed my camera up to the steeple of the chuch a bird flew above just at the right moment...Another reason why I love my job so much!!! These are moments that just can't be planned.

Walking arm and arm for the first time as husband and wife...

A few shots from their "not so formal" Formal session...I like to keep things fun and always moving so the bride and groom doesn't get bored! Simon helped with that too!

Their introduction into the reception!

Their first dance!

And this is later into the reception as Simon entertained us with some pretty cool dance moves...

Congrats Jill and Simon! Can't wait to show you the rest!

Free Contest!!!

2007-02-16T20:33:00.000-05:00

Well, last weekend I went to the CPPA's 58th Annual Photography Convention held in Cromwell, CT. It is always a nice treat to really submerge myself completely in photography and surround myself with people that are just as passionate about it as me! And Although my husband has been my number one supporter of my business since the get go, he can only take so much about F-stops, finding the light, and creating actions. So like I mentioned...What a Treat!!!!

Well, Monday's seminar at the convention was what I really had been waiting for -for such a long time. I spent the day listening to Kevin Kubota speak and it was more than worth the wait. He is such an inspiration to me and such an awesome photographer. He really was so interesting to listen to (not to mention down to earth). He touched on all aspects of a photography business that really could be applied to any business or just to life in general.

To make a long story short...He is the creator of the Kubota Image Tools, (actions in photoshop)which tons of professional photographers use on a daily basis to achieve the artsie well- enhanced images they present to you! And since he is such a great guy he offered some free ACTION t-shirts at his seminar. However, it came with a price.

NOW, I am going to remain professional, since my blog is mainly used for my showcasing of my latest works of clients, and not tell you what I did in order to score a Kevin Kubota ACTION t-shirt. I will leave that up to your imagination!!!

What I will tell you is that for the first person that asks what I did to get this shirt - I will give you one 5 x 7 photograph on me ...that's right...for FREE!!!! So let's see how many of my clients, or prospective clients (hint-you have to hire me to receive the free image ;o), will take me up on this offer (and actually read my blog) and be the first to ask how I got "ACTION" at the seminar last weekend!!!

But, don't expect the answer!!!

I have a couple of ideas as to who it will be too!!! :o)
I will also be 100% honest with awarding the winner-as it would be bad Karma to do otherwise!!!

To participate click HERE

Good luck- and may the best man win!!!

p.s - I was having a bad hair day today- please don't laugh ;o)

2007-02-10T22:41:00.000-05:00

I finally figured how to write before the first picture while blogging. I know-I am kinda slow in some ways. I am the kind who is driving along 3 days after someone said something to me and I am suddenly so excited I finally figured out what the heck they meant. So months after blogging I finally figured out I don't have to put in a whole seperate blog entry just to give a little description about my clients!!! What a spectacular day it is!
Not to mention I went to the CTPPA convention today and learned lots about colors and monitors...WHAT???? Not for you? Not so exciting?
Okay, well anyway, here are a couple extras from Vickie and Jeff's shoot...fisheye fun! TTFN!

I love creating storyboards for my clients. I do them when I have some spare time ;-)

Vickie and Jeff

2007-02-08T14:41:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday I shot an Engagement Session in Newtown, CT for Vickie and Jeff. Vickie happened to know my husband from years ago-it is such a small world! Anyway, the temperatures were bitter cold and the wind made it feel about ZERO outside! However, they braved the bitter temps and held on! I was prepared to shoot into the night if I had to, but they might have turned into popsicles!
I did get some great warm & cozy shots-despite the "brrrrrrrrrrrr" cold!
Check it out:

2007-02-08T14:03:00.000-05:00

Here they are enjoying the beautiful sunshine :o) !

I like this shot of them:

There was a turtle at the park and Vickie wanted to jump on! Aren't they cute?!

They made footprints in the snow!

And hung out by some pinetrees that shielded them from the wind!

I absolutely love this shot! Their love and the the late day light really created such a warm feel.
p.s. we trespassed to get this pic! Vickie swears she saw a lady peeking out the window of her house at us! I just took her word for it and shot quick! :o) It was fun!

And one more for good luck!

Great Idea!

2007-02-01T19:16:00.000-05:00

Well, for a while now I have been wanting to have some kind of photo project that keeps me shooting on a daily basis. By a while I mean more like a couple years. Many a times did I take a picture and say " I am going to go with this" but then time goes on and days blend into each other and two years later...NADA...so I am announcing this one...that way I feel obligated to keep my word. AKA...I am trying to trick myself into it!
Also (and I am not trying to make up excuses...) I have been a bit pre-occupied with "life" on my time away from my shoots. Like having a second kid, buying a house that needed tons and tons of work (and still does) and well, just dealing with everyday life happenings...so needless to say I have had my hands plenty full!
So in trying to find ONE subject to shoot continously I became quite discouraged. I was stumped. I kept saying "If I could only"...and "If I had the extra time" and then so on and so on. After time goes on and you hear yourself say all those things you begin to think...my God...look how I sound. My favorite one is when I complain to my husband that I never go out and do something for ME Does that sound familiar? No. Okay -well it does to me! So I noticed everytime I had some free time it would be night time-not exactly when photographers like to go out and begin a shoot. But then it struck me... Night time =really cool pictures.
So from that point on I said that is it! That is my golden ticket! Quite a challenge at that as well...since night time photography has its limits and forces you to think outside the box and at times use the unthinkable...a TRIPOD!
So there you have it...and I will post some as I move along in my journey! I am giving myself sometime to work on them...like a year give or take...and I will be putting together a little photo show somewhere, as well as creating a coffee table book to go along with it...which will be up for sale! It will be challenging for me...but I am ready to take on the NIGHT!
Until next time!

Just for HaHa's!

2007-01-31T15:07:00.000-05:00

I was debating on whether or not I should even be making this storyboard...at the moment I thought to myself "Naaaa" my little one hopped on my lap and thought it was the funniest thing! So I figured that that was a SIGN! So I made it...then my husband (the one in the pictures) saw it and I think it went down the drain from there! So to be a prankster I am posting it until he finds it and orders me to take it off! HeHe!
I think it is the first of the three images that he is questionable about!
Anyway, enjoy while you can, you may just meet him on a shoot someday! I swear he is really sweet! That's why I married him!
Meg

2007-01-31T15:05:00.000-05:00

CPPA Convention

2007-01-31T14:15:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone! I am very excited to be attending the 58th Annual Convention held by Connecticut Professional Photographers Association Next Saturday and Monday. I am heading up to take a seminar by one of my favorite wedding photographers, Kevin Kubota. I can't wait to learn all sorts of good stuff from him and from others at the convention. I always come home revved up and ready to go! Not to mention I keep up on all the latest trends for albums and marketing and all that stuff! It is like an island oasis for me, I come home feeling so recharged and refreshed ( "86" the Tan) and I get so many cool ideas to apply to my photography that I sometimes think if I don't do them all I may explode! Does that sound too crazy? I hope not! Anyway, just letting you all know that I will be experiencing that next weekend and I will keep you updated on what I learn and take home with me!
Take care and keep warm!
-Meg

P.S. "86" is a term used for "No" in the restaurant service world. ( I was a Ruby Tuesday's girl) :o)

Portrait Session

2007-01-22T19:10:00.000-05:00

This post is actually very late going up, so sorry for the delay. This is from a portrait session I did back in December. Note that they are wearing light shirts and vests! Yes, anyone who lives in the East knows how crazy warm it has been for winter. And might I add that on the shoot we noticed a man at the park we were shooting at was walking in shorts and barefoot. Not too sure it was warm enough for that!
I did some bartering with our electrician and they chose to have a portrait session done of their boys, who were just the cutest. They were saying the funniest things, like wanting to be a "bushman" and "oh look a coconut" when one saw an acorn. I absolutely love kids.
Well, here are just a couple of pics for you to enjoy!

2007-01-22T19:03:00.000-05:00

Holiday Train Show!

2007-01-11T13:39:00.000-05:00

Last weekend my family and I went to see the Holiday Train Show at The New York Botanical Garden in Bronx, NY. What a site to see...It was gorgeous and all I kept saying was "WOW" I am so glad we went!
Here are some shots I got -mostly just for fun...I was mostly on Mom duty!
Enjoy!

2007-01-11T12:45:00.000-05:00

The beautiful architecture on a gorgeous 75 degree January day...

After waiting in line for about an hour we headed on into the greenhouse area...don't know the right word to use so I will play it safe with greenhouse area ;-) I was on a roll with seeing some shots but had to keep the bus moving since I was with my family. Anyway...the reflection pool as I called it:

A texture shot of some type of tree...Also want to play that safe... not too sure what kind it was-but it was cool!

Knew what shot I wanted the second I came upon this tunnel you had to walk through...so I snagged a quick one with my mom, husband and son. Just to let you in a secret...I wore the wrong kind of shoes to spend an afternoon at the botanical gardens...My new Nine West boots with a 3" heel { got 'em on sale ;-) }...imagine trying to play catch up in those all day!

A detail shot of the roof of one of the buildings in the train show. The buildings were all replicas from real NYC buildings and were made of natural plants and things, from flower petals and sticks to bark from trees and glued together using bees wax...pieces of art...it was amazing! Totally beyond what I expected it to be! It was so crowded and I only brought my 85mm with me so I got mostly close ups! Didn't feel like lugging all my equipment around PLUS a diaper bag!

One of the buildings:

A bridge in NYC dated back a ways before updates were made...early 1900's I believe...again, don't quote me on that!

An angel:

My fav of the day...Our lady of Liberty! Her dress was made of corn husks!

Then I took some "Just for Fun" shots:They are not perfect because I was being scooted along and playing catch up with my family...in the summer
I am going back to get some serious shots...then all will be blooming, if the weather cooperates!

Some curly action..

Some tall grass in some gorgeous afternoon light...

The entry way into the Gingerbread House area was decked with ribbons swaying in the breeze. I can imagine if I got as excited as I did when I saw them-how a kid must feel ;-)

The ceiling at the Holiday Train Show...

Self portrait in some large decorations at the gardens...

New Years Resolution...

2006-12-27T20:13:00.000-05:00

I told my husband that I have a few goals this year. Then I corrected myself and told him I have a few resolutions this year. And he seems to think they are different...So of course I have to do my job as a woman and prove him wrong so I looked it up in the dictionary! I know - I am such a pain in the you know what! ;o) Anyway, as I typed it in my computer and began my search, I came up with this:
Resolution-

Refers to the sharpness and clarity of an image. The term is most often used to describe monitors, printers, and bit-mapped graphic images. In the case of dot-matrix and laser printers, the resolution indicates the number of dots per inch. For example, a 300-dpi (dots per inch) printer is one that is capable of printing 300 distinct dots in a line 1 inch long. This means it can print 90,000 dots per square inch.

Found it ironic since I was actually trying to find out something other than photography info on line!!! ( ugggh-dpi talk!)

Anyway so here is the real definition of Resolution:

A course of action determined or decided on...
(hmmm. Interesting...)

Also I found this one:
Resolving to do something...
(never understood why they use the same word you are looking up in the actual definition...how does that help?!)
Anyway...here is mine...
To get and stay more organized, which should be challenging with two kids in tow!
And also, to eat healthier...and last but certainly not least...
To find Balance in life between work, family, and self! This one should keep busy enough! Ha Ha!
Take care and hope you come up with a new years resolution too! Good luck and Happy New Year!

To all Clients...

2006-12-27T20:01:00.000-05:00

We are heading fast into the New Year.
I think now would be a good time for all my wedding clients to call and set up your engagement/bridal shoots. March starts my busy season this year so it would be great to get dates all set up before things get crazy and hectic. So I hope since you booked with me that once in a while you stop by my blog and check it out so you can read this!
Talk with you soon and have a safe and happy holiday!

;o) Megan

Athena & Jeff

2006-12-13T21:52:00.000-05:00

I had the pleasure of shooting Athena and Jeff on Saturday in downtown Danbury, CT. It was so great of them to brave the bitter temperatures and it really paid off for a great shoot. I think JCrew needs to hire these two...they complained never and they are absolutely beautiful people...inside and out...If I needed to describe them in one word it would be "Genuine". They are as good as gold!

2006-12-13T21:30:00.000-05:00

Some wintery shots were a necessity since the temperature on Saturday was frigid.

Gotta love this door :) It is at a bank on Main Street in Danbury. I used to live one block from and never knew it existed. What kind of idiot am I? No robbers are getting in this way!Anyhow-the light ended up being perfect when we got there-totally not planned, just meant to be!

Shoes can tell alot about people, and since Jeff's dad own a shoe repair shop, it seemed quite appropriate to get a shot of them. I think these
shoes have l-o-v-e written all over them!

Headed into the Danbury Public Library for a little pit stop and couldn't resist stealing a couple shots...

Back outside for some fun Christmasy shots:

And just a little fun with night shots-so worth the wait of my husband running to the car for the tripod!

And my fav of the day, and sorry but it comes with a story too!
I originally told Athena that I was so excited to be shooting them in downtown Danbury b/c Christmas lights were going to be EVERYWHERE...well they weren't...well not like I had imagined in my head...so disappointed I thought I can't hype it up and them let them down...so on my way home from the grocery store the night before the shoot I had a fanatastic idea as I passed Pier One Imports..
So like mimes we communicated through glass and got some awesome shots like this:

What good sports! Happy Holidays!

Before and After...

2006-11-23T18:48:00.000-05:00

For all you Home and Garden channel watchers...I have taken some pics of our newly renovated home...Here is the story...
Well, I once drove by and thought "I love this neighborhood, and this house is just too cute...but boy is it neglected". And with good reason. The woman who lived here was old and passed on. Her husband had passed some 10 to 12 years before her. So there was a house that was once kept tidy and was now let go. Typical elderly home owners story. So that is where we came in. And once again this home has life to it. I can't begin to tell you the blood, sweat, and yes, tears too, that went in to re-doing this house. My husband worked on this house night and day for 6 weeks, and we had a shlew of men who pitched in, including my father in-law, and a neighbor, and his kids too! And the many days of me only having conversations with only an 18month old and a 4 month old...AHHHHHH! You can only imagine...but here we will start with the living room...

2006-11-23T17:55:00.000-05:00

After: you can't tell what justice opening the wall there has done for this space...i really should have gotten a better shot...and I still need a rug there and some pics to hang up and stuff...If you are interested...I used mostly Pottery Barn colors who collaborated with Ben Moore paints...love this color...it is I think called Shanedoah Taupe...don't quote me on that...but everyone seems to comment on how they like it...if you can't remember the name...Just think of what dirt looks like dried...in between grey and brown...looks awesome with my Lichen green curtains and chocolate brown couch...(hmmm...now I am in the mood for some M&M's) also we need to rearrange some furniture to accent the room better...we are working on that...

Before: The lovely kitchen...I really wanted to salvage the pink curtains...but they had their day! I think they are from the 80's and the kitchen maily was last updated in the early 60's when they put that addition on the house...The floor was shot-although you can't tell from this picture...

After: We redid the floors with Hardwood --didn't get quite the same angle but you get the idea...it is actually the one room that we didn't really do the whole shabang to. Money stopped! Kitchens aren't a cheap update...so we settled with painting cabinets and doing the floors...replaced the fridge, which we took from our apartment, new stove and hood, but kept the old wall oven, which is way tiny, but still tickin'. And soon a new dishwasher will be installed(I have 2 kids and would be permantly attached to the sink w/o it)...but all in all...it is a bit cheerier I'd say!

I think they updated this last in the 60's...It wasn't quite as bad as our upstairs bath...but I wouldn't walk barefoot on it...It failed the Meg LaBarbera inspection for sure! If it ain't Meg LaBarbera clean then it just ain't clean...

After:Much better...went diagnal with the tile and am so happy I did...also got that idea from the Home and Garden Channel. Gotta excuse our upscale mirror...the one that came with the vanity didn't quite fit in between the sink and the lights above. So for now we are using Eckard's pharmacy's finest!

Before: Ugly, Ugly, Ugly...and very closed in...And actually totally unsafe...I could have knocked it down with my pinky!

After: The staircase was an easy decision to knock that ugly wall down and open it up...I learned a few things from watching the Home and Garden channel and one of them is if you would like to add value to your home, updating bathrooms, the kitchen, and opening up room for more space is the sure way to do that... So that is what we did...We put in new stairs and railings-we hooked up with my Husband's friend Travis Rigney who owns Rigney Stair Company. I highly recommend him! He is so good at what he does...and loves what he does...and it shows!

Before: Mmmmm! Yummy...gotta love this bath...talk about luxery living! Not only is the bathroom draped in grey wood (or woodlike)paneling...but it has a blue toilet and fresh blue carpeting! I don't think that bottle of comet and clorox wipes on the back of the toilet are going to help!

After: As you can see, we still have a bit of work to do with it yet...like take the sticker off the toilet! You can kinda get the jist that we are going for...like Clean!

Make-up Artist...

2006-11-22T09:42:00.000-05:00

Well, I have told clients in the past that I am on the search for a really good make up artist that I can refer, and hopefully soon, incorporate that into one of my packages for the bridal shoots...and I have found one!
I recently did a lingerie shoot for a client of mine who had her make-up done for the shoot. Her name is Susan Zaleta and she is a M.A.C. girl and she is GOOD. Actually I have to say she is great! My mom and I happened to be in Macy's the other day and we stopped by to find out who she was. My mom asked to get her eyes done, and so I asked if she happened to be the one who did the make-up for the shoot, and she was! So I made an appt. for myself...as I love Make-up and couldn't resist! I have to say, she is a miracle worker. She does weddings and basically make-up for any occasion. You can contact her either through me or you can also contact her by calling the M.A.C. in Macy's Danbury Fair Mall( She is the Retail Manager)...the number is 203.731.3500 EXT.2148

Tom and Jolene Wedding

2006-11-17T10:23:00.000-05:00

Like I promised...here are a few more shots from Tom & Jolene's wedding on Oct. 14th. They got married at St. Mary's in Ridgefield & the reception was held at the Lounsbury House in town there. It was really such a fun day and everyone was so friendly. T & J are super nice people and I loved being a part of their day...

2006-11-17T09:54:00.000-05:00

The rings, taken on a couple glasses provided by the Sheraton: I think I can see myself in there!

Detail shot of her shoes:

Tom's sister was the florist-She is so talented ( she sings too!)...the flowers were gorgeous and full of "fally" colors and berries. I recommend her highly-and will be getting her contact info soon I hope!

This picture I love for two reasons...One- b/c it is cute and I love the colors! & Two-it was funny b/c Jolene had just pulled up in the limo and I shot a few before this one, and Melissa(second in from the left) thought it was great when I said "Let's look SEXY"!!! So I was trying to juggle getting shots of Jolene approaching the church while hearing Melissa yell "Wait Wait-let's do that one again!" And so here is the result:

At the reception there were sconces on the Walls and Jolene happened to be standing in front of one and the light was just glowing. She had no idea I was taking this picture, but isn't that light just so perfect?!

The happy couple during the Matron of Honor's toast speach:

Congrats Tom & Jolene! Hope you enjoy Jamaica!

We've Moved!

2006-11-15T21:59:00.000-05:00

Finally! The day has come and gone! Packing was painful and unpacking was even worse! But the worst is over and we are settling in. My computer is up and running again. My apologies to all those trying to reach me either by phone or email. The phone situation was a task in itself, but my old number now directs you to my new number. ( We have gotten to know the AT&T customer service dept. quite well these past few days! :) So I can be reached now by phone as well. My new number is 203-791-8969 and is also located on my contact page on my website as well.
Thanks for all your patience and understanding!

Tom and Jolene

2006-11-05T23:29:00.001-05:00

I have to say first that this entry is being accompanied by just one picture from Tom and Jolene's wedding. I am finishing up with the final enhancements and then more will be posted at a later date! I picked my favorite pic from the wedding...I couldn't wait to share it! We took this shot in between two buildings up in Ridgefield, CT. The sun shined through the clouds at just the right time for us to do the shoot and get them back on the limo bus! When I first went to scout out the nearby park they picked for formals...I was driving out from the lot I parked in and noticed this little nook! I asked Jolene if it was okay for us to do some extras at that spot and she was up for it! I love when whoever I am shooting just goes with the flow! That is the best way to live life!Don't ya think!
So more to come Tom and Jolene! I am chugging along!

2006-11-05T23:26:00.000-05:00

Moving!

2006-11-04T16:54:00.000-05:00

To all my clients: I will be moving this coming Friday November 10th. My new contact info will be on my contact page of my website...phone number and city. So keep checking for the change. If you need to reach me to find out about proof pickups and such, please be sure to email me in addition to phoning so I am sure to catch you. My email is not changing, of course, and I am running a bit behind schedule due to all the craziness. I will let all you know when proofs are ready ASAP! Thanks for understanding! Have a great weekend! :)

Friday...

2006-10-27T21:41:00.000-05:00

AHHHHHHHHHHH! I am blogging with out a pic. What am I thinking? HAHAHAHA! Well, I was on the computer and just browsing around, which I rarely have time to do, and figured I would blog. I am giving my clients a heads up...I will be moving to my new home in about 10 days give or take. It all depends on how things go. Who knows what other surprises can arise in this house!!! Really we are blessed with a beautiful home that I have to say is really going to be totally Pottery Barnish!!!
Although the only thing that will be pottery barn are the shower curtain and the living room curtains...and oh yeah...the duvet cover too...but we don't need to go there!
I also have to say thank you to all the wonderful, talented, hard working men that have been making this house a reality for us. I think you are all doing wonders there, But I want to freakin' move in ! Hahaha! No really doing great work! I will recommend you to anyone!
Have a great weekend! Happy Halloween if I don't blog before then!

Jennifer and Ken

2006-10-24T19:58:00.000-05:00

Jennifer and Ken got married on Oct. 7th ( I am slow with this due to having kids, rennovating a house and running a business...:) ) in Ridgefield. They ended up with a beautiful day, so beautiful you would think it was summer...Jen was a glowing bride!

2006-10-24T19:41:00.000-05:00

the bride's father stepped outside to make a quick call to see when she'd be arriving...She was running fashionably late!

the flowers :

I just liked the way the shadows fell from a nearby trellis:

The Le Chateau has beautiful grounds:

A really cool solo done by a really talented group called The Heartbeats
I highly recommend them-they Rocked!!!

Portrait Session

2006-10-16T23:59:00.000-05:00

On sunday I got to shoot the cutest little baby boy! Well, I guess he is actually a toddler, since he was on the "GO". During the shoot he was chatting up a storm with his Mom and Dad. I was very impressed. He was definitely a good sport through the whole thing. I think the cookies in between the shots helped a bit...Although I did have to do some retouching in Photoshop to remove the evidence from his chin! Here are a couple of pics from the shoot, which was taken at their weekend house by a lake! After a couple of postponed shoots it was finally nice to meet you!

2006-10-16T02:56:00.000-05:00

He had such a personality - so full of life!

Jill and Simon-Engagement Session

2006-10-10T09:54:00.000-05:00

Sunday I had the pleasure of shooting Jill and Simon's engagement pictures. I have three words that describe this couple...FUN, FUN, and FUN!!! I had such a blast with them, and they were willing to do anything I suggested.
I found out that Simon went to high school with my cousin, such a small world!
I think these guys were the nicest people. Actually the whole family was!
After shooting the session at their home we headed up to her parent's house for some more shots and much to my surprise some pretty tastey homemade apple pie! Manifique! (I probably spelt that wrong)

2006-10-10T09:29:00.000-05:00

A little afternoon glow...

Simon making Jill laugh...These two were so into each other!

This one is one of my favorites...Jill had these awesome huge canvas prints in her kitchen. Ahhh! LOVE - one of the many fruits of life!!!

The rest is yet to come guys! Can't wait for the big day!

2006-10-03T10:33:00.000-05:00

he paused for a minute...(well actually just for a second.)

My little one running through the pumpkins... He thought he was hot stuff!

a little girl there was tugging a wagon full of pumkins and
I thought "How adorable!

Portrait Session

2006-10-02T22:29:00.000-05:00

Saturday I got to photograph a graphic designer and an AR-TEEST!
We headed on up to a local park and shot away! We got a little drizzled on but all in all we had a lot of fun! I love the textures in the old barn and the random rusty wagon wheel adds a bit of character! The AR-TEEST wasn't so sure about incorporating his drawings into the picture...but I say anything goes!!!

2006-10-02T22:18:00.000-05:00

Who Wants Money????

2006-09-23T14:14:00.000-05:00

I knew that would get your attention! Well, I am looking to find someone that likes making money. I am looking for a new assistant. Anyone? Anyone? You should have an interest in photography! I think I may make that a requirement! If you in the least bit interested please contact me via email or phone...Go to my website go to the contact page and get my 411 there! A few requirements are: reliable { key :) } , have interest in photography, able to work weekends, since weddings are on the weekends!, and do occasional small shoots during the weekdays.

New House!

2006-09-21T20:17:00.001-05:00

Yesterday , Brian and I closed on our first home! We are so excited and have already begun to make it our own! As you can see, it needs some TLC, which thankfully we have plenty of :)
Not only are we in love with this "full of potential" home, but the neighborhood is absolutely adorable and so friendly! We have already had visitors from next door!!!
Soon my new studio will be up and running and I will be there to greet you with a smile :))))
And if you are straining your eyes to see if that is a cat up on the roof, you are correct! It is indeed! However, real it is not!!! That cat has fortunately been moved to a new location! The trash!

2006-09-21T19:59:00.000-05:00

New BLOG once again!

2006-09-19T19:10:00.001-05:00

Well, I know I know! You are not seeing things! I did change my blog AGAIN!
I think this is cleaner looking and easier to look at!
Anyway, I got my new lens in today! 85mm 1.4 Nikon lens! It is fantastic! I am in love! You get some really great images with this baby! Sharp as can be!
Well, even though the price tag was not as HOT as the results, I would recommend it to anyone!
Enjoy!

New Blog Once Again!

2006-09-19T18:54:00.000-05:00