Jenna Domingo

MOVING!

2011-09-18T11:54:00.000-07:00

Please excuse my absence! There seemed to be a baby boom in June and July and I was super busy with newborns shoots in NJ! (I promise to blog them soon, soooo many good images!)

I do have some BIG NEWS - we found out in July that we were going to be relocating down to North Carolina for my husband's job! We are more than thrilled about this news! I know NC is a beautiful place because my sister is down there and I have visited many times! Oh and my sister just had a baby girl (another session I need to blog) and I am so excited to spend time with her and my new niece Emmie!

So anyway - we will be living in the Winston-Salem/Clemmons area and I will starting up the business very soon…hopefully by October! A perfect time to do some fall sessions and holiday sessions. Please pass my information on to any friends you have down there! Thanks!!!

Ok and here are 3 sneak peaks from my nieces photo session - isn't she a beauty?!

A Tented Baby Shower

2011-05-15T15:41:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful spring day on Long Island, the sun was shining and there was a nice cool breeze - perfect for a tented baby shower! This party was super cute had a "Lady in Waiting" theme - i.e. you'll see the ladybugs throughout, but it also signifies the baby girl on the way!

This definitely had to be one of my favorite baby showers to date! I loved the decor, the food, and the DESSERT or should I say DESSERTS (plural) and all the handmade special touches. I have so many photos to share but tried to post my absolute favorites - which was really hard to do! Enjoy and try not to drool!

I loved the advice tree!

The food was delish!

The Bellini's were a fab touch

These awesome french macarons were from etsy seller NicoleLeeChocolates

The cupcakes were by SugarChic (Long Island)

The beautiful cake was by Sugar Sugar in Westhampton Beach, NY

Like I said, desserts were a plenty…

Beautiful mama-to-be...

…and her high heels!

Tina's Baby Shower | Redds Restaurant in NJ

2011-05-15T14:54:00.000-07:00

Tina, the mommy-to-be, is the cutest little pregnant girl you will ever see! Her baby shower was this past March at Redd's Restaurant in Carlsdatd, NJ and was such a fun party! Tina is super excited for the birth of her daughter, Gabriella, and was honored at her shower with lots of cute, pink gifts!

Also a quick side note - there must be something in the water out here….there were 5 pregnant girls at this shower! WOW! Tina thought it would be cute to take a photo of everyone together, such a good idea!

T - I cannot wait to meet your little bundle of love and also I am excited to do her newborn photos!

All the guests brought books for baby Gabriella!

Opening the gifts!

Lots of clothes!

The cake...

All the pregnant ladies, lined up in order!

Riya's 1st Birthday Party

2011-05-02T23:22:00.000-07:00

I photographed this little beauty a few months ago and also had the pleasure to photograph her 1st Birthday Party! Let's just say she lovvvvvvved the cake! She is still beautiful, even with frosting on her lips!

My sister

2011-05-02T22:56:00.000-07:00

Dana. She is 24. My little sister. Going to grad school. She runs. She bikes. She works out. She has a job. She cooks. She bakes. She cleans. She walks the dog. She pretty much does everything.

Sooo any guys out there? Kidding! She will kill me for that one.

Anyway here she is in all her beauty.

She never lets me take pictures of her…after 3 snaps, I get this.

Maybe the beer warmed her up for a bit?

Nope, got the hand and the whiney "Stop that!" Oh Dana I still love you!

Big Photography Giveaway!!!

2011-04-26T11:41:00.000-07:00

Thank you everyone for participating! The winner has been announced and I am very excited to meet her and her baby boy!

Please keep an eye out for another contest this summer!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-Contest is now closed-

I am giving away a photography session and MANY other fun goodies! All together this package is valued at over $700! This giveaway is to thank all my supporters and past clients who got me to 300 people on facebook and helped me to have a successful 1st year in business! The package is a Mommy-&-Me theme and the winner will be drawn on Mother's Day, May 8th! Not a mommy? It's ok...dads and others can apply too!

Here is what is up for grabs! At the bottom I will tell you how you can apply!

Grand Prize
(1 winner will be selected for this entire prize package)

Portrait Photo Session with Jenna Domingo Photography - $450 value
-1 hour outdoor photo session
-30+ high resolution images on a disk
-All photos from your session printed on premium 4x6 paper
-Two 5x7's of your choice
-One 8x10 of your choice

You can see Jenna's recent work on her website: http://www.jennadomingophotography.com/

Brag Book Photo Album
From Etsy vendor: Flymama
-personalized with child's name, initial or family name...
-holds 36 4x6 inch photos in acid and PVC emission free sleeves
-wooden button and ribbon closure
(substitutions on color/design can be made)

Two Flower Headbands
Hand sewn by Etsy Vendor: Sew Whimsey
-You pick your favorite 2 headbands
-You pick the size (newborn - teen)
(substitutions can be made, if for instance you have a boy a hat will be ordered instead)

Newsboy Hat

Boutique quality, handcrafted, adorable hat from Etsy vendor: Kidinthehat

-You pick the size (infant, toddler or child)

(Photo credit: Andrea Crabb Photography)

Brother/Sister Set
Pillowcase Dress with Matching Tie Applique T-Shirt from Etsy vendor: OkiRoo
-You pick the print
-You pick the size (newborn - 4T)
(substitutions can be made)

BIG Box of Pampers Baby Dry Diapers (100-200 count)
-You pick the size (1-6)
(substitutions can be made)

BIG Box of Huggies Unscented Baby Wipes (360 count)
(substitutions can be made)

For Mommy:

Mani-Pedi at salon of your choice

Box of Godiva Chocolates - 27 pc. Dark Chocolate

$25 Starbucks Giftcard

$15 iTunes Giftcard

______________________________________________________________________

Here's how to Enter:

Step 1: Become a fan of Jenna Domingo Photography's Facebook Page by clicking "like" at the top of the page
Step 2: Enter a comment on Jenna's facebook page of why you would like to win and who will be in the shoot
Step 3: Please post this exact message in your personal news feed "Enter to win a photoshoot and other goodies with @Jenna Domingo Photography" Please be sure to use the @ symbol and select my photography page.

BONUS!
To gain a 2nd entry into the contest, post in the comment section on this blog with your name and "This is my 2nd entry"

GOOD LUCK and keep an eye out for a Christmas Mini-session giveaway later this year!

RULES
-Anyone in the NJ/NY area can apply for this giveaway. Travel fees may apply.
-Winner will be chosen at random on Sunday, May 8th 2011
-If you do no have a facebook you are welcome to enter under a friend or family member's page but you must include your first name and last initial and you should also email the details of how you entered to jennadomingo@gmail.com
-The portrait package must be booked and used in 2011.
-If you already have a session booked with me, you can use the above credit towards your session
-Gift baskets must be picked up in person. May take 3-6 weeks to assemble basket as some items are custom made.
-Substitutions are allowed on above mentioned products and will be discussed with Jenna Domingo.

Gorgeous Riya

2011-03-07T19:31:00.000-08:00

I absolutely loved this baby girl! Riya was just about 7 months old in these photos and just a dream to photograph…just look at her big brown eyes and that beautiful skin! She was also a great baby and did not mind outfit changes or scenery changes so we headed outside to a park in Edgwater, NJ and got some nice fall photos.

Check out this cutie…

Now you know where she gets her beauty from….

This pictures were from the fall, so we did a little holiday set up too..

These next two photos were her mother's vision and I totally dug the idea!!!

These below are also the mother's idea, she wanted a few shots of Riya in her crib…again I was so into it and loved the outcome!

Then our few outdoor photos!

Holiday Photos (finally!)

2010-12-31T22:33:00.000-08:00

Well, well, well…where have I been?! I have actually been CRAZY BUSY! I literally disappeared from the blogging world during the months October through December. I was doing shoots almost every single weekend and literally spent every waking minute editing and getting everyone's CD's out so they could make beautiful Christmas cards! Whew, it was a whirlwind but so fun at the same time. I got to meet some great people and photograph some really adorable children and babies!

I have been wanting to share some photos from these shoots but had to wait for the right time. 1) I was super busy and 2) many of the parents asked me not to blog or post or facebook any photos until after their Christmas cards went out. So that brought me to late December and then I took a short hiatus for the holidays and now I am finally back at it! Below are photos from 7 shoots I did which took place all over: from NYC, to NJ to Long Island!

First up was James, just short of 2 years old…what an adorable little guy! We did his photos at my "secret location" on Long Island (one of my fav spots to shoot) and I really loved the light and my gorgeous little subject. He has some killer eyes and eye lashes…

Second up was 2 year old Angelina. This photoshoot was also out on Long Island in her cozy home which was so beautifully decorated for Christmas. Angelina was is super photogenic and is also the sweetest little girl! When our session was over, she grabbed my hand invited me to come play with her - awwww!

Third was 14 month old Avery Quinn…another Long Island session. This was my 3rd time taking Avery's photos and my camera just loves him. Is he not perfect?! His hat is just too cute and I love all his expressions!

Ok so there was one meltdown…lol…he hated the bucket!

Fourth up - photos on the Upper West Side: Hayden (2), Jake (1) and baby Luke (2 weeks old)! Everyone was dressed to the nines and they all looked like they could have children's clothing ad! This family was super cute and we had a really fun time taking photos!

Ohhh this is a favorite!

Fifth - onto Jersey City for 7 month old George's photos. This little guy has perfect skin and the cutest dimples and was just so lovable and cuddly. There was also some beautiful light in their condo and it made for some great photos!

Sixth - I did photos of Anthony (2 & 1/2) and Adrian (9 months) at Old Westbury Gardens. What a perfect setting and a nice fall day for photos. These cuties have been on my blog before and it is SO fun watching them grow up!

Love this one of mom and dad...

And last but not least…baby Braydon. Just 5 days old and cute as a button! These are a few holiday sneak peaks from his newborn shoot…more photos to come in a separate blog post!

Nathalie Maternity in Hoboken

2010-12-20T23:36:00.000-08:00

Nathalie was 7 months pregnant in these photos and not only was she gorgeous but she was also a trooper! Doesn't it look like these were taken on a nice fall or spring day? Nope - think again. It was a cold & windy December day but Nathalie rocked it like it was 70 degrees out! AND she worked the camera like a real model, yeah girl!

We took these down near Pier A in Hoboken and had a blast, despite the cold temps. Congrats Nathalie and Jim - you guys are going to be great parents!

They even brought their adorable doggie along for some photos!

Nathalie a Steelers fan. Jim a Giants fan. Both teams played eachother that day!

The infamous Hoboken wall that everyone loves (including me)!

Ofcourse I had to snap a few of the doggie...such a sweetie!

E's Maternity Photos (studio)

2010-12-15T21:26:00.000-08:00

I shot these beautiful maternity photos when E was around 33 weeks pregnant - she looks amazing and was a natural in front of the camera. We did these photos in my home, which I am starting to do more of. I have great natural light here and I am really loving it and I think the set up works very well! Feel free to come on over for your pics ;)

PS - These were right before Christmas…hence the ornament!

These are daddy's shoes from when he was a baby!

[IMG]http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l124/Jreoch/Evelys-14.jpg[/IMG]

Gorgeous!

Uh-oh, a Red Sox fan in Yankee territory! EEK!

I love these last 3, my favorites!

Baby Braydon - 6 days old!

2010-12-02T20:43:00.000-08:00

Here of some pictures of beautiful baby Braydon at just 6 days old. I shared a few of these photos on my holiday thread but wanted to post a few more. Isn't he just absolutely perfect?! I love his little squishy lips!

Family Photos in Hoboken!

2010-11-16T21:37:00.000-08:00

I love, love, LOVE doing family photos! Especially when the families are as cute and as fun as this one! We did these photos down at Pier A in Hoboken and just had an absolute blast! I am not going to write a long winded post but instead just going to let these photos speak for themselves!

Meet 3 year old Townshend and the E family!

…and some cute ones of mom and dad alone :)

Kitties!

2010-11-14T14:52:00.000-08:00

Wow - now these are some beautiful cats! These three furbabies are all from the same house and just really really gorgeous. They are all so different yet they each have such unique features. They were very well behaved too let me move them around and position them and were just so mushy and lovable! I decided I love doing pet photos, specifically cats! This is one of my favorite pet shoots to date!

Miata...

Kitrina, a.ka. "kitty" - love her eyes!

Harley….

I love her fluff!

Fall family photos

2010-11-08T20:42:00.002-08:00

Not too long ago I was out on Long Island for a fun-filled day of photos!!!! This was my 2nd stop and we decided to do photos in the client's backyard. Yes this is someone's backyard and it is huge! The leaves were just starting to change and it made for a nice backdrop. The kids (Emma - 10, Anthony - 4, and Lucas - 2) were adorable and really fun to photograph! The weather was also really nice for photos, not too sunny and not too cold yet!

So without any further a-do….some fall family photos!

Here is Emma…so sweet and I really loved her outfit!

Anthony - he had the best smiles and expressions!

Lucas - omg he is so cute and I want to eat him up!

Ok and this is their tree house - so cool right? I would have died and gone to heaven if I had one of these when I was growing up. It is like every kid's dream!

Yup - even this bench was in their backyard! I want to set up shop back there and do all my photo sessions in their yard!

A few family photos

This one is sort of an out-take but I LOVE it!!!!

Maggie's Christening in Hoboken

2010-11-08T20:42:00.001-08:00

I had the honor of photographing a beautiful Christening down in Hoboken of a gorgeous little baby: Maggie Grace. The details of the day were so amazing - first of all Maggie wore a dress from Ireland that was over 100 years old! Wow, just wow. And it was in perfect condition and so well preserved by her family. Second, the buggy they use for Maggie was over 30 years old and very very cool as well. Ok and the weather was so nice, the church was beautiful and the venue where they had the party was just perfect and had such gorgeous light! I felt so lucky to be hired at this event! I do love photographing events and hope to do more in the future. I just think it is so fun to float around and capture the emotions and moments of the day. I especially love all the photos of the baby sleeping in her buggie, they are just so sweet!

Ok this is a big big post but I was with the family for 3 hours and took tons of photos! Enjoy!

Love this pic!

This is the buggy!

Clinton Social is where they had the reception…great little restaurant!

Laura & Kevin * Love Photos * Edgewater

2010-10-27T20:18:00.000-07:00

Recently I did some "love photos" for a really cute couple down in Edgwwater, NJ. Laura and Kevin were married two years ago and wanted some updated photos of the two of them and also a photo for their Christmas card! After speaking with Laura a few times over email I found out she has a Bichon/Poodle mix named Skyy and I just suggested they bring the pup along for some photos too!

We started in Edgewater down near Palisades Park which is SO gorgeous for photos! It is so pretty there because there are so many trees and natural landscapes but you also have the GW Bridge and NYC skyline right across the river! After that we headed over to West New York which is even better for NYC photos because we were right inline with midtown! I had so much fun doing this shoot and really am inlove with all the locations we chose!

Laura and Kevin - it was great to meet you guys and I hope you love the photos!

These were over in West New York...

I saved some of the best photos for last! LOVE THESE! The lighting was so creamy and perfect!

Baby Girl Siena

2010-10-26T18:56:00.000-07:00

Baby girl Siena was born almost 5 weeks early and was just as tiny as can be! I did her shoot at around 4 weeks old and she was still a good sleeper and a wonderful little model! She barely made a peep during her shoot and when she did wake up she was wide-eyed and happy! Her parents were so sweet and we chatted like we were old friends. They live on the upper west side in NYC in a gorgeous place with a balcony! I could not resist the beautiful views so we went outside for a few family pictures! I always like to spend a good amount of time getting photos of mom and dad with their new little bundle…I feel it is so important for clients to have these in their collection of photos.

Enjoy!

She definitely had a few smiles...

My new red blanket that I am loving…

The gorgeous views at sunset…

Family Photos - Belmont State Park

2010-10-20T22:27:00.000-07:00

Well isn't this family just stunning? We took these photos back in October at Belmont State Park and had such great weather and beautiful fall colors. Not to mention, some cuties to photograph! Micah 7, Nicky 5, Ella 3 and Lucy 10 months were all such a dream. Both girls are fair skinned and blue eyed and the boys, dark skin and dark eyes - total opposite but just adorable!

Also, mom brought along an antique chair from the 1940's! It was her grandmothers and is a family heirloom and just fabulous to have for photos.

Enjoy the beautiful photos…

Ella

Lucy…

Micah…

Nicky…

The kids…

The Family…

One blooper/crazy pic for fun!

Mom & Dad…

…and they lived happily ever after!

The twins in Hoboken!

2010-10-19T22:00:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure to photograph Caroline and Julia for the 2nd time this year! Some may remember when I did their newborn photos when they were just tiny little premies earlier this year. I can hardly believe they are 8 months old already - they are getting so big and so beautiful and really just developing really cute personalities!

We met up down at Pier A in Hoboken for this session! It was a bit windy and there were some hair raising moments, lol, but overall I am very pleased with this shoot and with these photos. I loved capturing their smiles and cute moments - too sweet!

Enjoy!

Melody & Leo's Wedding | Round Hill House, NY

2010-10-10T13:51:00.000-07:00

I worked with the lovely Jayd Gardina and photographed this gorgeous wedding at in the Round Hill House, in Washingtonville, NY. The mansion where they got married was beautiful and Melody and Leo were glowing with love all day.

Here are a few of my favorite photos!

So close to Jeter...

2010-10-08T23:58:00.000-07:00

While I am on the topic of sporting events - I thought I'd share a quick post of where I sat at a Yankee game a few weeks ago....

7 ROWS FROM HOME PLATE!!!

Can we say boo-ya! These seats were a-mazing and the view of players wasn't half bad either ;) I took my dad as he is originally from Michigan and the Yankees were playing the Tigers that night. I also had to make up fathers day in a big way and this was the perfect opportunity! I thought it would be quite fitting to treat my dad to a game because always took ME to ball games when I was a young lad, umm girl. (I think my dad would secretly pretend I was the son he never had, lol.) I didn't care though and really loved this time with my dad. He bought me special baseball earrings, the big foam hand, cracker jacks, ice cream in the plastic hat, etc! He taught me "Take me out the ball game" and had me participate in the wave (which I still love to this day). It was always so much fun to go to games with my dad and this was a GREAT opportunity to treat him and also reminisce!

This was my 2nd time at the new Yankee stadium and I was VERY impressed. Here are a few pics from our fun father/daughter date!

and for old times sake....we got the icecream in the hat!!!

Newborn Nicholas

2010-09-22T00:19:00.000-07:00

It was SO good to see my friend Kim and get to meet her new little bundle of love, Nicholas. Kim is someone I have known almost my whole life and was also a close soccer buddy of mine. We played on a few different teams together growing up - travel team, school team and a LI Select team- so yeah we saw eachother a lot, 7 days a week at certain times! I did some maternity photos for Kim when she was pregnant with her first son and also a little mini session of baby #1 but we went all out for this session! Baby Nicholas was a tiny little peanut weighing in at just about 6 pounds at his photo session (5 days old)! He was nice and sleepy when I got there was a good little model! He did have a few crying moments and I thought they were so cute actually and snapped a few shots of that as well.

Kim - your little babe is just so handsome and I cannot wait to watch him grow up! Thanks for having me photograph him and for buying me pizza as well! Feeding me while on the job with my favorite food = happy photographer! I am going to keep the contests running here so if we can get 10 comments from different people in the comment section on this post in the next 2 weeks, I will gift this family a 5×7 photo of their choice!

AlsoI wanted to give a big shot out to the Etsy shop, "I'll be yarned" for all the awesome hats and cocoons used during this shoot. Visit her amazing shop here ----> illbeyarned

I love this little cry-face one!

Big brother Anthony is the cutest

I just LOVE these hand-painted decorations she had done in the baby's room - so cute!

J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS

2010-09-21T23:44:00.000-07:00

Well the Jets are off to a good start this year and let's hope it stays that way! My husband, is a die hard Jets fan, was indeed at the game on Sunday and he came back in quite the chipper mood (not that he isn't always chipper).

Anyway a few weeks ago I went to a preseason game and got to check out the new stadium. It is pretty nice and I really enjoyed myself. My only disappointment was the concession stand - there was NO line at all but my I still had to wait for my food! It seemed like utter chaos back there and I have no clue what was going on but it took forever. Other than that we had a good time and I cannot wait to go to another game this season!

Leslie - Family

2010-09-13T21:48:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I had the chance to take photos for fellow friend/photographer/mentor Leslie Simmons! Her family is just adorable and I just want to take Taylor-bug home with me. She is at such a cute stage in life where she smiles a lot, stands up on her own and even dances! She is sweet as pie and I love her to pieces!

Leslie thanks for asking me to do these photos for you - I was very nervous but also honored. Also thanks for letting me use your Canon 5d Mark II - which I then decided I needed too and so I ran out and bought one the next week - lol!

PS - All photos were edited by Leslie

Michigan sky

2010-09-13T20:48:00.001-07:00

We were out in Michigan Labor Day weekend had the chance to go to my uncle's lake house. What an amazing spot and I am always awestruck every time I go there. Their house is gorgeous, the views are beautiful and it is just complete serenity there.

Until you hear the laughter and chuckle of our huge family. I repeat HUGE family. There are 18 first cousins, and I have lost count of the second cousins but it is somewhere in the 20's. We all got together for a big reunion and it was an absolute blast. I decided to leave my good camera behind on this trip because I felt I needed a break. I really just wanted to have fun and hang with everyone and didn't want to be click-click-clicking away. I did however bring my point-and-shoot and happened to capture these two AMAZING photos:

We had an absolute blast in MI and I really wish we could get out there more often. My grandparents are both doing well and my g-pa (who is 88) even golfed 18 holes with Matt. Amazing. Thank you g-ma and g-pa for having us out and to my aunt and uncle for opening up your house for 50+ people! We love you and miss you already! (PS - isn't my hair huge in this pic, haha.)

A Vintage Firetruck!

2010-09-13T17:10:00.001-07:00

Jaime and Billy. They are both volunteer firefighters on Long Island. They work in neighboring fire departments and met at Christmas party at his firehouse. They were married on August 28, 2010 and he used this family vintage firetruck to take him and the groomsmen to the ceremony. I was there to capture it all and loved every minute of it! This is why I love photography - it is always something different and it just keeps getting more and more interesting!

I have known Jaime since elementary school and was so excited that her and Billy hired me to take some photos of the guys getting ready and this 60+ year old firetruck. Billy comes from a family of firemen where his father, grandfather, uncle and two cousins have all volunteered at the same firehouse! As a matter of fact his grandfather was the previous owner of this 1942 Ahrens Fox Piston Pumper which was a one of a kind from it's time. It turns out the manufacturing company stopped making trucks between 1942 and 1946 because they had to focus on making parts for the war. This truck was the only one made during those years and later was named the "War Baby." This truck is now owned by Billy's uncle and he is also the owner of another vintage firetruck as well as a Ford Model-A chief's car!

I do have a secret love for vintage cars and trucks and I think I got this from my husband who makes me watch Barrett Jackson and Mecum classic car auctions. You know the ones where the guy talks a million miles a minute says seventy-thousand, seventy-five-thousand, seventy-six-thousand, seventy seventy blahbitty blahbity blahbity, going once, twice, sold sold sold! Yes those are constantly being DVRed and watched in my house…over and over again, lol. Well I guess they have grown on me and I now have a new found love for anything vintage and muscle cars, especially Camaros and Corvettes. My dream car would be a 1957 Corvette Convertible in Cascade Green - so dreamy. Anyway my point here is that it was so cool to see this vintage firetruck in person and learn about the history of it! It is something I definitely have an interest in and feel honored to have photographed it as well as three generations of firemen.

Congrats to Jaime and Billy on your wedding - you had a beautiful day and the lighting was oh-so-awesome. I am sure your reception at East Wind was nothing short of amazing and I cannot wait to hear all about it. Much luck and love to you guys.

Also I will continue the contest I have been running - if we can get 10 comments from different people in the comment section on this post in the next 2 weeks, I will gift Jaime and Billy a 5×7 photo of their choice!

By the way, these photos were all taken in his parents' backyard - can we say AMAZING?!

Here is the beauty...

And it is time to go..

Madison & Jacob

2010-08-31T20:21:00.000-07:00

I love cute kids and I love doing beach shoots! I especially love when the client has access to waterfront property and their own private beach - it really was amazing to have the whole place to ourselves! Madison and Jacob are both adorable kids who love playing, exploring and running around. The kids were a bit camera shy at first but I just let them do their thing and then clicked away. I really love being able to capture the fun action shots as they happen and really enjoy these photojournalistic-type sessions. It is just kids being kids and what more could you ask for?!

Thank you Kasey and Neal for your wonderful and photogenic kids, I hope you love the photos! If we can get 10 comments from different people in the comment section on this post in the next 2 weeks, I will gift this family a 5×7 photo of their choice!

This next one is a favorite!

Stop by the Trendy Treehouse where I entered the kiddies in a laughter contest!

Fist Pump

2010-08-25T21:07:00.000-07:00

Yes he is a Jersey boy and he is practicing his fist pump already at the tender age of 5 months! I think his parents may watching too much Jersey Shore! Kidding, kidding. Isn't this one cute baby though? He is all over my blog and website and I cannot get enough of him!

Avery at the beach!

2010-08-23T18:14:00.001-07:00

I met up with my friends and their adorable son Avery for a beach session at Smith's Point a few weeks ago. Avery at 10 months old is a very curious fella! He was so intrigued by the cars that were driving on the beach, the dogs running by, the waves crashing down and oh how could I forget…the sand! He was obsessed with eating the sand!

We really did have a good time during this photo session and Avery was just an angel. The sun was blazing hot but Avery and his family powered through and as a result we got some amazing photos! I am so excited to share these photos and I have been dying put up this blog post! I am actually so pumped that I am going to run a contest!

If we can get 10 comments from different people in the comment section on this post in the next 2 weeks, I will gift Avery's family a 5×7 photo of their choice! Please post using your google account or if you don't have one you can post a comment anonymously but just include your first name! Woohoo!

This one is so cute…is he looking at his shadow?

I also am entering Avery into an "I Heart Faces" contest!

Maternity photos in Italy

2010-08-23T16:20:00.000-07:00

How could I not take some maternity photos of my dear friend Caroline who was pregnant while we were traveling in Italy together! She was SUCH a trooper and powered through our 11 long days of sightseeing in Venice, Florence, Cinque Terre, Sorrento, Pompeii and Rome! I was so impressed by her amazing energy and how she never complained! There were actually many days where I omplained about being tired or my feet hurting however she never made a peep! Go Caroline!

We did have some quality R&R time while we stayed in Sorrento at La Favorita - a little gem of a hotel, with an amazing rooftop pool, gorgeous lounges and beautiful rooms! This place deserves a blog post all in itself but I don't have time right now! Ok so not only did our hotel totally rock but it boasted some awesome Mediterranean views and some really great sunsets. One night before dinner we headed out to watch the sunset and also take a few maternity shots of Caroline. There are only a two and I wish I had more but we were tight for time. I am dying to do another sunset maternity session so if you are interested, please let me know!

Jenna runs the marathon - AGAIN!

2010-08-23T16:18:00.000-07:00

Yes you read that correctly, I will be running the NYC Marathon again this year and training is in full effect! I am so excited to have the opportunity to run such this amazing race again. Many people have told me I am nuts and they cannot believe I want to do it again! After the grueling training + injuries I endured last year I was not so sure if I WOULD ever run another marathon. There were days when I came home in tears and told Matt I wasn't sure if I could do it. And then there was the stress fracture in my foot that set me back in the last month, but I didn't let that stop me! I was determined to run the race and finish with my goal time of 4 hours 30 minutes and that I did!

As soon as I took my first few steps on that Verrazano Bridge, I knew in my heart that I had to run this marathon again! It was such an amazing experience and I get all teary eyed just thinking about it. For starters I ran for a charity in honor of my grandmother who I lost to liver cancer. The charity I ran for, Fred's Team, raises money for Sloan Kettering in NYC where my grandmother was treated. Since I raised over $5,000 (I raised $7,800 to be exact) - I was awarded a two night stay in at a hotel in Times Square during marathon weekend - score! The night before the marathon, Matt and I decided to do some touristy things like visit FAO Swartz and the L-O-V-E sign and then we got burgers and fries (my favorite pre-race meal) at the Burger Joint in Le Parker Meridien. We then met up with a friend who lives near Columbus Circle and watched the some fireworks from her apartment building!

Marathon morning came fast but don't worry I was well rested. When running a marathon you should get a good night sleep 2-3 days in advance and I definitely followed these orders. That morning I took my nervous and jittery self down to the hotel lobby too meet up with Tina and Lori for our Fred's Team breakfast. While eating, we were approached by a cancer survivor turned volunteer who thanked us for running and raising money - tear, the waterworks started early. We then boarded our buses and were off to Staten Island at the wee hour of 5:30am! We also met up with Liz, who I know from Hoboken - I had forgotten she was a charity runner and so glad I bumped into her! Ok so once in Staten Island it was a waiting game - I won't bore you with all the details of sitting on soggy grounds. Instead let's get on to the race recap!

I started in the 2nd wave, which was around 10:00am and was put on the lower level of the Verazzano. Some people complained about this but I actually really liked it! There was lots of room on the lower level of the bridge and were still able to sneak a few peaks of the Statue of Liberty! Lori, Liz and I were all in the same wave and I am SO lucky I had them by my side for 26.2 miles! Once we hit Brooklyn, the cheering and amazing crowd support started. I could not believe the number of people out in the street cheering all the runners on. There were people handing out water and bananas, there were bands, people singing karaoke, church choirs, oh and I will never forget the group of people that were doing the YMCA on the steps of their building - so fun! I wore my name on my shirt and ran near the sides because I needed/wanted people to cheer for me! Go Jenna! Yeah Jenna! Go Jenna, Lori & Liz! It was so cool to hear this and have total strangers smiling and throwing their arms in the air when we ran by.

The first 13 miles were a breeze, we were running fast but new we'd eventually slow down. I could not wait to see my family on 1st Avenue but still had to conquer Queens. I actually had a surprise in Long Island CIty - my friend Elise and her husband stopped there to cheer me on - so AMAZING! I found out ahead of time because she texted me to to look out for her. (Yes I had my phone with my and was sending out pre-typed texts with my locations and times.) Anyway I bumrushed Elise with the biggest hug ever and then was on my way. Queens was a bit quieter than Brooklyn and the 59th Street bridge was so incredibly hard. I kept on pushing through because I knew 1st Avenue was right around the corner and I could hear the yelling and cheering from a 1/2 mile away!

I'd have to say I flew down 1st Avenue and saw all my friends which made me SO happy. My biggest cheering squad was around 90th Street (mile 18 or 19) where I had 11 people waiting for me! I ran over to hug and kiss Matt and waved to the rest of my family and friends. (I tried to hug everyone but there just wasn't enough time - I didn't want to lose my friends I was running with!) I cannot tell you though how much it meant to have all of them there. It helped me to push through those hard miles and gave me something to look forward to! Everyone said it was such a cool experience to watch the race and one of my friends even cried after I ran by!

Ok ok I am rambling here…let's move on….I headed into the Bronx and mile 19-22 got pretty hard. At one point I felt nauseas but Lori said "hang in there, you'll be fine!" I also knew I would be seeing my family and friends again at Central Park East and that I'd I also be seeing my girls from the Hoboken Elysianette's Running Society at mile 23! Ahh more happy faces and waving to everyone. Now at this point I only had a few more miles to go and I kept on trucking. I turned on my ipod in the Bronx and had it full blast through the last few miles. I actually finished the race to Metallica's Enter Sandman which will forever hold a special spot in my heart! I had my goal in mind for my 4:30 marathon and really wanted my name in the paper the next day (haha) so I really tried to pick up the pace! I ended up losing my friend Liz at the end and I almost lost Lori too because she took off really fast but she did wait for me at the finish line. I saw her as soon as I was done and we flew into eachother's arms where we cried hysterically and hyperventilated at the same time. We were so tired but also on SUCH a high. It felt so amazing to finish 26.2 miles and do it all in the 5 boroughs of NYC with fans cheering the entire time. I couldn't have asked for a better marathon and cannot wait to do it all again!

Later the night I met up with my friends and family again for a post-race dinner at Tony DiNapoli's - yum! It was so good to see everyone and to thank them for supporting me and cheering me on! The NYC marathon definitely ranks as one of the coolest things I have ever done in my life. I cannot describe the feeling that came over me that day but I know I want to feel it again! This year I got in through the lottery and am really looking forward to running it again. I am not so excited about the training but am grateful that I have many running buddies to train with this year!

Here are some photos from my marathon weekend…enjoy!

Pre-race festivities

Pre-race fireworks in Central Park

Fred's Team group photo in Times Square at 5:30am

Lori, Liz and I in Brooklyn

The awesome signs my friends made me (which totally helped me to spot them)

Me going crazy when I spotted my running friends at mile 23

Me back at the hotel, wearing my medal proudly!

Celebrating with my friends and family

Here are a few cool shots my friend took of the professional runners!

Stick your tongue out!

2010-08-17T09:21:00.000-07:00

The Wishful Lamb is running a photo contest this week and I thought it would be fun to enter! The contest is pretty straight forward...to post a picture of tongues! I immediately thought of at least 3 cute photos that would work for this contest! I actually feel so lucky to have my Digital SLR camera with a fast shutter because I am able to capture these exact moments (which sometimes happen too fast to catch with my point and shoot).

Anyway...hope you like them!

This is Barkley, he is a Bijon Frise

This Penny, she is a Cock-A-Poo

This last photo is a tad out of focus but I still thought it was cute! This is a stray cat I saw in Cinque Terre!

Joey aka #1 Eagles Fan!

2010-08-15T18:33:00.000-07:00

My good friend came up to visit from Philadelphia this past weekend with her beautiful baby boy! Joey is 4.5 months old and just has the sweetest face. He is also a really great baby and allowed us to change his outfit 4-5 times without making a peep!

Here he is (below) in his favorite Eagle's garb. Now we do have Jets-only house but we allowed this cutie to be dressed up for his photoshoot :)

I wish he could sit up on his own because this picture is priceless!

Thomas - 8 months old

2010-08-12T09:19:00.000-07:00

This little guy just may be one of the CUTEST babies I have ever photographed - Ok I think I say that all the time though! Look at his big blue eyes and his beautiful skin - he is flawless in every way! I asked his mother, and my good friend, if she is just awestruck by her beautiful baby? I told her I would stare at him for hours every single day, which I am sure many new moms do anyway!

Anyway, I was out on Long Island this past weekend to attend his christening and also was able to sneak some photos in before they went back to Vegas. Quick side story, I know her husband from high school and she is also a Long Island native but we really got close when they moved out to Vegas about three years ago. I was living there too and us NYers stick together like birds of a feather so we became good friends. She is still living out there but we keep in touch and try to see eachother whenever I am out there or she is here! Ok back to the photo session - I actually took the photos at my mother's house on Long Island and the lighting was just perfect, even at 1:00pm! We found some shaded areas and we just let Thomas do his thing. He was super smiley and I loved his two little teeth that are coming in - just so adorable!

Eat your heart out...

Little Thomas has been entered in a beautiful eyes contest!

Eat, drink and be crabby!

2010-08-10T01:01:00.000-07:00

Ever since we have been together, Matt and I take yearly a trip down to Ocean City, MD. It is actually ironic that we both have a connection to this tourist destination but I will get to that in a minute. Ocean City is such a great spot to visit and we have friends who live near the Delaware beaches so even more of a reason to go down there! We love to hang at the beach, go shopping, walk the boardwalk, eat the infamous Thrasher's french fries, as well Fisher's popcorn, go out for fresh crabs and seafood and the list goes on.

Ok now for the quick side story…when Matt and I first met out in Vegas, he asked me where I went to college and my quick response was, "A small school, I am sure you've never heard of it." Now Matt is from the west coast and not many people out there have heard of the small east coast school I went to but he said, "Try me." I told him Salisbury University and he confirmed that yup, he had heard of it and he knew the area very well! Score! Not only did he know the area but he spent many a summer down there with his grandparents - so yeah he probably knows it better than I do! (For those of you who STILL haven't heard of Salisbury University, it is on the eastern side of Maryland, about 30 minutes from Ocean City.) So every time we go down we always reminisce and visit our favorite attractions. We HAVE to go to the boardwalk and usually wander aimlessly with french fries in our hands and huge smiles plastered on our faces. Matt and I are always amused at how NOTHING has changed there and that is why we love it so much. Some of the neon signs on the look like they are from the 70's and some of the rides look even older!

OC is the ultimate playland for adults and kids! There are tons of fun bars that I have been going to since my college days and plenty of yummy places for crabs like Waterman's and Old Mill. I am not much of a crab person but Matt is so we always hit up one of our favorite spots. Don't get me wrong, I do like crabs but just hate all the work that goes into getting them open!

We had a great time and I wanted to share some photos from our trip. We made a mess at Old Mill Crab House in Ocean City and I thought it made for interesting pictures. We went with two sets of friends and their kids and boy did we get our hands dirty! The girls got peel and eat shrimp and the guys got all you can eat crabs! Sorry in advance for so many photos but I couldn't help myself and love shooting freely like this.

Beers and bottles...lol

What a mess! The guys' hands were actually pruney from hours of cracking crabs open!

The aftermath...

Later on, Matt and I went to walk the boardwalk. I love taking pictures down here - I cannot wait to look at them in 20 years from now and see how/if anything changes.

The best french fries in the world...Thrasher's

This is one of the signs that has not changed in 30 years. By the way...what is up with the bananas that look like pickles!?!?

Happy times

The rides...

Photos of Natasha

2010-08-10T00:33:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago I got together with my friend and fellow photographer, Natasha Montero. We decided to barter services and take a few photos of eachother for our websites and other stuff. We met up in midtown where we had a great time shooting at a street fair and also in Bryant Park. The lighting was amazing and Natasha look hot! I loved her dress which she informed me she got at Lulu's - check them out, they have such cute stuff!

If you are ever interested in having headshots or a similar type shoot, send me a note!

Here are some favs:

Favorite!

So pretty

Sexy

We called this one our commercial ad: "Maybe it's Maybelline!"

Carmel Ann's Bridal Shower

2010-08-03T07:36:00.000-07:00

Wow - I was so blown away by all the love and thought that went into this bridal shower. Carol (Carmel Ann's mother) went ABOVE and beyond with the decorations and details at this party. Everything you see below was handmade or wrapped by Carol herself! She did such a great job and to think she had to hide all of this from her daughter because they were living under the same roof - that is an accomplishment in itself!

The party was held at Cono & Sons in Williamsburg, Brooklyn and the food and service was outstanding! Carmel Ann was completely surprised and shed several tears as she entered the room. She was glowing in so many ways and had so many loved ones in attendance that are excited about her upcoming marriage. I was hired to stay the entire party and took many many photos of Carmel Ann and her guests...too many to post but here are some highlights!

Congrats to Carmel Ann - you will be a beautiful bride!

The cake was insane! The cake topper was made of white chocolate, yum!

I loved this next gift - it is for their honeymoon!

This was one gift from her sister - so creative!

This little bus is full of rolled money! Her mother is paying her bus fare to get to work for the next year, score!

Trash the Dress!!!

2010-07-25T09:38:00.000-07:00

This was my first "trash the dress" session and it was so much fun! Camille and Tim were married in Antigua and I attended their ceremony and party where I played photographer and practiced my skills! No I was not hired - but happened to be on vacation when I met them just days before their wedding and could not resist taking some photos at this beautiful setting. The sunset on the beach was beyond gorgeous and I got some beautiful shots of the newlyweds who took a dip in the warn Caribbean waters while they were still fully dressed! It looked so exhilarating and romantic at the same time.

Here are a few of my favorites!

Camille working it…

Tim watching his wife and soaking in the sun

They got into the water

These are two of my favorite shots

Oh and love these last few :)

A wedding in Antigua

2010-07-21T07:22:00.000-07:00

Last June I was so honored to be invited to a beautiful, quaint wedding in Antigua! Tim and Camille were married at Sandals in Antigua, a gorgeous island in the Caribbean. It had rained a lot that day and they kept pushing back the ceremony but eventually the clouds parted and the sun came through blazing! The lighting was beautiful and I went nuts taking pictures of the two! The resort at Sandals is so beautiful and lush and it really shows in these photos. Antigua is just a really breathtaking island and has such blue water - click here for a few more pictures I took while on vacation!

After the ceremony they had a little party at their private rondoval (a mini house with a private plunge pool) where food and cocktails were a plenty! When the sun went down we did some trash the dress photos on the beach but I will save that for another post!

Congrats to the bride and groom and thank you for letting me us be a part of your day!

They both have heirloom wedding rings which I always think is so special

First dance :)

It rained again, but only for a few minutes!

The after party and celebration!

We're married! No, actually he was calling the butler to have him bring some coffee and more champagne!

Matt looking so cute!

Stan (telling a joke I am sure)

Camille laughing at Stan

Tim enjoying the bubbly

A cute lizard who came to the party!

The End

Events: Adrian's Christening

2010-07-16T07:03:00.000-07:00

A beautiful day in June...a lovely family...a Christening AND a Birthday party...two amazing cakes - what more can a photographer ask for?! I am so lucky to be doing what I am doing and to have repeat customers! I did Christine's maternity photo's last year and was honored to shoot her adorable son's Christening. Adrian is such a little cutie and a really ham for the camera! He slept through most of the ceremony and barely made a peep during the times he was awake - what a great baby! His big brother Anthony was celebrating his 2nd birtday and the after party was held at Il Classico in Massapequa. After I was done shooting, Christine invited me to stay for dinner and I thought that was so sweet! The food was delicious and I got to meet a few of her awesome friends!

I sat next to and chatted with Elizabeth from For Goodness Cakes! She made both of the below cakes and cookies and has done some amazing stuff. Her business is based in NJ but she serves the entire tri-state area! I am definitely going to look into using her for cake smash photos and maybe the next time I throw a party! Check out her facebook fan page, For Goodness Cake, and definitely contact her for your next event!

Cute little Adrian

Anthony - the birthday boy!

The awesome cakes and cookies/favors by For Goodness Cake

His outfit was too cute for words

Party time!

3 Eyed Monster!

2010-07-14T01:00:00.000-07:00

Oh my god, can I just say that I LOVE etsy! There are so many great finds on there and I am about to go broke because everytime I go browsing I find something so cool.

A friend of mine found this cute little guy to put on the end of my lens and I really think it will come in handy when shooting kids! I cannot wait to try it out! If you want the seller's information, definitely email me and I will pass it along!

Guess who's back?

2010-07-13T08:19:00.000-07:00

Back again? Penny's back! Tell a friend! Guess who's back, guess who's back, guess who's back, guess who's back. LOL - I woke up with that song in my head and decided to work it into this post today. I always wake up with random songs in my head, I find it odd actually - but sometimes it is uplifting because I will start singing to myself as I get ready! Anyway, this was definitely ironic because Penny's mommy, Samantha, is a big Eminem fan so what are the chances that I wake up with that song in my head the day I am blogging about her dog?!

Anyway I had another shoot with Penny at her 5 month birthday! Penny's first shoot went really well and this one was even better because she has had all her shots and and is allowed outside! I am starting to really LOVE pet photography too by the way. It is a real challenge, especially shooting little hyper puppies but I really enjoy it and am loving this set so much! Penny is so fun to be around and it's cute to see her running here and there and biting on on the cuff's of Sam's pants, picking up one toy, then dropping it and immediately picking up another one, etc. I think she finally tired out at the end and settled in for a few portraits with her mommy! Much love to Sammy and Penny!

Manhattanhenge 2010

2010-07-12T18:58:00.000-07:00

Ladies and gentlemen…I present you with Manhattanhenge! This cool phenomenon only happens twice a year and I finally got to experience it! For those of you who don't know what it is…Manhattanhenge occurs when the sun sets in perfect alignment with Manhattan's east/west grid streets and like I said it only happens TWICE! I believe there are a few other days where you may be able to see partial sunset but I wanted the full thing so my friend and I ventured out yesterday to set up shop on the 42nd street overpass by 1st Avenue near Tudor City. Apparently it can be seen anywhere north of 14th street but I liked the idea of being high up on the overpass when it happened and I also happen to LOVE the Chrysler building so I was thrilled to get that in the shot too!

Ok so as many of you know, I am obsessed with sunsets and this has been high on my list of things to do since I moved back to the NY area. Manhattanhenge happens once in May and once in July and it is tricky to catch because I always seem to be on vacation when this mystical occurrence takes place! (In May it usually happens around Memorial Day weekend and I am usually on the beach and not anywhere near the city.)

I did try to witness it once back in 2007 but it was cloudy that day and there was nothing to see! I actually got nervous that we may miss it this year too as it was raining earlier in the evening and there were some clouds, however we lucked out and it was quite spectacular to see! I went with my dear friend and photographer, Natasha Montero, and we fought the crowd to get a prime spot on the bridge. A few people got nasty up there, not with us, but it's a shame that some photographers can be so rude!

Ok so without any further adoo…Manhanttanhenge….July 11, 2007:

I love the lens flare in this one…

The End

Natasha and I (me rocking the straight hair for a change!)

All the crazies on the bridge who must have gotten there 1-2 hours beforehand

Everyone trying to get "the shot"

Thanks for stopping by! Let me know which you love the best!

Molly Maternity

2010-06-14T12:31:00.000-07:00

Back in April I met up with beautiful Molly in Hoboken, NJ for her maternity photos as well as some family portraits! She lives in a gorgeous apartment right on the Hudson with pretty views of NYC. I did some outside photos of her and her cute family and then moved inside to her adorable apartment - which by the way had AMAZING light!

I really enjoyed this shoot and thought Molly was very super photogenic! Don't you think she looks great for being in her eighth month of pregnancy?! I really love doing maternity photos and being able to capture that amazing glow that mothers-to-be have. Molly was radiating that glow the whole day and was just so natural when it came to poses. She would just adjust her position on her own and I would say, "Wait, hold that", snap, snap, snap! She was just a dream to photograph!

Her daughter Tate, who was SO sweet, was also very photogenic so I took a ton of pictures of her! She takes after her mother with that gorgeous milky, almost ceramic looking skin! Tate was such a great little model and I loved meeting her and getting her to smile!

Here are some of my favorite shots of the day...there are many...

This is one of my favorite shots of the day!

I love this shot too :)

Just a few more of little cutie Tate...

Just look at her skin - it is perfection! Absolutely no photoshopping was done here.

My sunset collection

2010-06-08T21:07:00.000-07:00

I don't know anyone who doesn't love a good sunset but I have to say I am a real sucker for them. Not completely obsessed but I do have a real love for watching them and capturing them on my camera. Whether it's on my Canon or just my point-and-shoot - I cannot let one happen without taking a photo! And lucky for me I've been able to witness some really great ones all over the country and now I can say all over the world too (just got back from Italy)!

I love to watch them with my husband - we cuddle up next to each other and settle in for the beautiful picture that is about to be painted in the sky right in front of us. Splashes of red, orange, purple, pink - it is like a fire in the sky and it is amazing. Everything changes so fast, as the minutes pass, the colors can go from one thing to the next. I love how the the clouds in the sky add to the photo - the clouds really make the picture if you ask me! It really is awesome to watch and just so romantic. Until I pull my camera out. "Oh honey" I say, "I am just going to snap a few pictures."

Click.

Click click.

Click click click.

Change a lens.

Click click.

Oh can we just move over here for a minute.

Click click.

Change the settings.

Click click.

Ok you get the point, I guess I am obsessed and thank god hubby is ok with this obsession. I have four of my favorite sunset photos framed in our guest bedroom and I think I may need to add a few more after my recent trip! I am going to post my favorite sunsets from Italy as well as Arizona, Florida, Antigua, etc…bare with me because there are several favorites! Ok so without further ado, I present you my SUNSET COLLECTION!

Sorrento, Italy (May 2010) Just breathtaking

Another Sunset in Sorrento Italy, taken from the roof of our hotel. I love the clouds in this one

Florence, Italy (May 2009) up at Piazzale Michaelangelo

Cocoa Beach, Florida - looking west over the bay (Jan. 2010)

Another Cocoa Beach one, shot exactly 2 minutes later, same settings, all I did was zoom out a bit! Isn't it so cool to see the difference in color here in just a matter of 2 minutes?! I think it is a lot brighter and more orange because the sun came down past the clouds a bit more.

Phoenix, AZ (Jan. 2007) This one is framed and one of my favorites. I took this right outside my in-law's house and guess what - I took this with my handy dandy Casio point-and-shoot camera using the "sunset" setting.

Same spot in in Phoenix, AZ - 2 years later (Nov. 2009) Shot this with my Canon…different colors but still so cool.

Hudson River, NY/NJ (Oct. 2007) These next few are not necessarily sunset shots but I liked how the sky looked and how the sun was hitting the water. I went on a 1 night cruise out of NYC and took these with my Casio point-and-shoot.

Statue of Liberty

Have you ever seen NJ looking so beautiful…now you have!

This is several minutes later as the sun got lower over the Hudson or maybe at this point we were in the Atlantic Ocean.

Antigua, Caribbean (June 2009)

Not a great sunset this night but I love this one - look at those clouds and the moon peaking out!

Another night in Antigua

Here is the sky a few minutes after the sun went below the horizon

Last one for Antigua :)

Phoenix, AZ (Jan. 2008) - Had to throw another Arizona one in there…look at those colors!

Newport, CA (Jan. 2006) Taken with point-and-shoot camera.

And last but not least - San Diego, CA (May 2009) Not a masterpiece but there is something I love about this photo. I like the surfers waiting for waves and the hazey sunset - it gives it such a mysterious feel.

Avery Quinn

2010-06-08T20:19:00.000-07:00

When I showed up to do this shoot for little Avery, I was so excited to see that both he and his parents all dressed up in Giant's gear! Even though I am a Jets fan at heart I still have a soft spot for any NY team and love seeing babies dressed up in their parents' favorite team. It was game day and the little man was all ready to start learning all about football!

I did this shoot back in October but am still getting caught up on my blog! I had a lull over the winter and some serious computer issues but now I am back up and running! Little Avery was only 1 month old in this shoot and was very precious. He actually proved to be pretty strong too - he could already hold his head up and he turned over by himself which I think may be a new record! I have never seen that happen at such an early age! Go Avery! We did more of an informal shoot for Avery and I think we got some cute shots of him.

I wanted to thank Tatiana from Tiny Clicks for coming along with me on this shoot and also Christine from Christine Melissa Photography for help with editing! I love working with other photographers because I feel like I learn something new every time!

Avery's 2nd Birthday Party

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

The last time we were in Arizona, we had the chance to attend Avery's 2nd birthday party! We really enjoyed spending time with good friends and hanging out with little Aves and watching her open up some really cool presents! I think my inner child was just dying to play with some of these toys - especially anything doll related as I used to have an obsession with Barbie Dolls! We also enjoyed the cuisine - yes I have pictures of the food, all of which was homemade by Avery's mom Leslie!

You may recognize some of these kids from a previous post - click here to see the old post and see how much they have grown!

The white chocolate covered pretzel rods were a HUGE hit with the kids (and adults)

Avery opens her gifts!

Meet Makena - little sister to Connor who can be seen below

She loves to stick out her tongue!

Connor playing with the dog

Janessa's Baby Shower

2010-06-06T21:45:00.000-07:00

She is a 5'0 foot tall gymnastics champ and a real beauty, he is a 6'4 football pro and a handsome guy - I cannot help to wonder what their little baby will look like. All I know is that he or she is going to be so darn cute! Actually you may recognize this couple because I took some of their wedding photos about a year ago and also did her hubby's "getting ready" pre-ceremony photos. They are both such great people and are going to make awesome parents!

Janessa and Eric are expecting baby #1 and I was a guest at her baby shower at the Terrace Club in Mahopac, NY. Of course I was extremely happy to take some photos at the event and document this beautiful day! The weather was great and the lighting in this room was oh-so-amazing and really made for some great pictures!

I really loved the centerpieces her mom had done - they were so vibrant!

The favors were also great and had such a fresh, springy feel

Isn't Janessa the most elegant pregnant girl you have ever seen?

Yes…the baby will be decked out in his/her parent's alma mater: University of Michigan

These cupcakes were amazing! I had two :)

Here are my sisters enjoying the cupcakes!

Janessa's cousin Kim is also pregnant so I had to grab a photo of the two of them!

I got a few pictures of Janessa alone…

and also a few pictures of her and Eric out back

Little Puppy Penny

2010-06-06T20:48:00.000-07:00

I cannot get enough of this dog! One of my best friends just got the most adorable dog, a mixed breed Cocker Spaniel and Poodle, aka "Cockapoo" and she is just the sweetest thing! I think she may actually be part teddy bear because she really looks like a stuffed animal in some of these pictures!

Penny was less than 2 months old in her first photo shoot and just a bundle of energy! I actually managed to get her to sit still for a few shots and think I really captured her doggy beauty! Congrats to my bff Samantha on your new little baby - I cannot wait to document Penny's growth throughout the year and probably for the rest of her life! Thank god she is not camera shy :)

Leslie's Baby Shower

2010-06-03T21:03:00.000-07:00

I was very honored to attend and take photos for a dear friend of mine, Leslie, at her baby shower back in October 2009. Leslie is not only a friend but also a photography mentor to me and I am so lucky to know her and to have worked with her in the past! Leslie has had a big year so far because not only did she welcome a baby into the world but she also launched her own company earlier this year: Leslie Simmons Photography! Go Leslie!

Her baby shower was beautiful and she had the most amazing cake I have ever seen! She also had awesome pink & white cookies which were quite delicious! I think my favorite touch was her dollhouse style bookshelf and her reading book wishing well - what a great idea! I had a blast at this shower which was held at Brentwood Country Club and think she had a really amazing party!

I really loved that her mother and mother-in-law brought baby photos of Leslie and Mike and also displayed their "take home from the hospital outfits!"

I love cool wrap jobs like this one!

Somebody's a Steelers fan!

The dollhouse bookcase

One of Leslie's old photography teachers sent the baby a first camera, too cute!

View of the the golf course

Newborn Twins!

2010-05-11T23:58:00.000-07:00

Ah yes - so Elizabeth gave birth to her darling twin girls back in January and I was there 2 weeks later to do their newborn photos! I went down to her beautiful townhome in the north end of Hoboken and spent around 3 1/2 hours working with the girls! I'd say this is about the average time to spend with newborns because they need time to be fed, have diapers changed in between shots and I also like to leave time for them to fall asleep because they are very easy to pose that way!

The girls: Caroline (darker hair) and Julia (lighter hair) were all of 5 and 6 pounds and oh so precious! They were definitely on different sleep schedules so it was easier to do their pictures separate rather then together but i think I managed to squeeze a few cute ones in!

Caroline:

Look at those cute toes!

Julia:

Together:

Their parents are both runners and they both joked that Julia has some long runner's legs!

I had to get a few shots of the girls in their personalized Pottery Barn chairs!

I always like to get a few shots of mom + babies and dad + babies - I love these next few!

The End.

Christine - Maternity (Long Island)

2010-05-11T21:21:00.000-07:00

Ok so this post is a little past due but I am finally back into blogging and want to get caught up! So I had the chance to work with another photographer on Long Island back in December. Matt was at a Jets game all day so I decided to make a trip out to the island for a few maternity shoots! It was really fun to work with someone else because we had the chance to bounce ideas off each other and compare photography notes!

First up was the lovely Christine, who was so calm an composed. She had such a natural way about her and every pose came so easy. I feel like the setting was so tranquil and I think that really shows in these photos! She makes pregnancy and motherhood look so easy! Yes, she is already a mommy to dear Anthony who I snapped a few photos of as well! What an adorable to little family and I am so happy I had the opportunity to meet them and take their photos!

It is always so hard to pick the best shots but these are a few of my favorites!

Elizabeth Maternity on the Hudson

2010-05-04T22:34:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth and I had an amazing time shooting together back in December after a huge snow storm (yes I know I am very behind). Ok first of all, can you believe she was 7 months pregnant with twins? Yes you read that right...TWINS! She is a runner and one of the tiniest people I know so no wonder she looks so good! (Although she did stop running several months after she found out she was pregnant but still managed to stay in shape by walking instead. Either that or maybe she is just lucky!)

So I met Elizabeth about a two years ago when I joined the Hoboken Elysianette Running Society (HERS). She is actually one of the founders of our all girls running club and she has done a phenomenal job of gathering members, organizing runs and social events - the whole nine! I can never keep up with her at our weekly runs because she is super fast and I am super slow but she really motivates me to kick it up a notch! Actually I have gotten faster since I started running a few years ago so I am pretty happy about that! The club is great because you can go at your own pace and distance and you also get to meet some fun girls in the process! It has really been a great experience for me so far and I encourage you to come out and run with us if you live in the Hoboken area! Click the link above for more information and meeting times!

Ok so back to the shoot - despite the snow storm and her doctor's orders to stay off her feet, she still wanted to get out and have some maternity photos done. We met down by the Hudson River in the Weehawken/North Bergen area and had NYC as our backdrop! The weather was chilly but Elizabeth had no problem shedding her coat for a few great photo ops!

Afterwards, we went back to my house and continued with the photos. Below are a few of my favorites from that day!

Stay tuned for a blog update with Elizabeth's twin newborn shoot! The little girls were born in January and I was there 2 weeks later to snap up some precious moments!

Don't you love her Kate Spade gloves? They say "Hi" and "5"