{Life with Jen-nay}, Jennifer Mott Photography Toledo, Ohio

New Blog, update your links please!!

2008-04-28T07:15:00.002-04:00

I've been working on a new blog for a while now...doing a little here and there while images were processing and things like that. It's still not done, but I love it and wanted to put my last few session up there instead of here. You'll see why when you visit:

http://www.jennifermott.com/blog

I will not be updating here anymore. All of my old posts have been transferred to the new blog. So I'll see you there :)

First Class of 2009 Senior Spokes Model

2008-04-23T01:19:00.005-04:00

My first senior spokes model session of the year was tonight, and the weather couldn't have been more perfect! We had the most beautiful sunlight and sunset.

N is so gorgeous it took me FOREVER to narrow it down to a few to show off. I don't think I had a single shot that wasn't perfect!

We had a blast, N is so much fun! And very attractive to the passing truckers, ha ha! It was one honk after another all night.

I love backlighting, the light was perfect...she's glowing!

Love this spot:

This spot too:

Doesn't she have the best smile and eyes?

And finally, some FUN:

Don't forget to click to view them larger! I am working on a new blog that will show them off big, hopefully soon...

New prop and my little mommy

2008-04-21T02:00:00.002-04:00

I had another reschedule today since it looked like rain... it's going to be busy this week, I now have something every single day. But the weather is supposed to be beautiful! Since I had my camera all ready and a new prop I haven't used yet, I took Lulee (her latest nickname) out to snap a few.

Here is my favorite new find:

She is really a mini-mommy, it's so cute!

I treated this one a little vintagy to go with the outfit and stroller:

And finally, I had to add this one in, she is really the queen of the pout! She knows how to work it! (some tell me she gets this from me, he, he...)

I know I have some emails to get back to and I will tomorrow... I decided to enjoy the weekend, and then took tonight to get the ton of orders that came in out.

Fun maternity tonight

2008-04-18T00:29:00.003-04:00

I had a maternity session tonight...isn't mom so pretty? She is due in exactly a month, I can't wait to meet her baby girl!

I love sun flare, can you see the rainbow on their jeans? I love the light at this time of day...so gald the weather has been warming up!!

I REALLY love this shot... hopefully mom likes it too. I think her expression as she looks at her dog is priceless! It's a better watch it dog look :)

Something different, but I think I like it:

Tonight was fun guys! Can't wait to get together again in a few weeks!

I'm so excited for a nice weekend! 80 tomorrow, did I hear that right? yeah!

Back to normal

2008-04-16T23:00:00.002-04:00

Hi! Well, my house is cleaned and organized, the dishes and laundry are done, and the fridge is full of leftovers...all signs that my in-laws just left!

And I have my computer set back up again and after a little head banging, back to normal.

Some news:

1 - The May child for the Emma Louise contest has been chosen and I will contact the family tomorrow. The rest of the families will be entered for June, that winner will be chosen April 30, if you weren't in the May drawing, email me and I will sign you up for June. Don't forget the drawings will be the end of each month now to allow more time to get the sessions scheduled in as I am "thisclose" to being fully booked until July.

2 - I am catching back up on sessions and email. I should be back on schedule with proofs and responded to all my emails tomorrow. If you are waiting for something from me please let me know!

3 - This has been in the works for a while, but I wanted to share with you all now that I have started ordering the displays... I am completely redecorating the Associates for Women's Health lobby and all other rooms. Check out their web site: http://www.associnwomenshealth.com/
They are a wonderful group of midwives and an OB in Sylvania...I know there were several of my past babies that were delivered by this group :)

4 - I know I had a 4 and now have forgotten... I suppose I can talk about the weather! Thank goodness for this warmth and sun, yeah!!

5 - Oh yeah, I am "thisclose" to being fully booked until July. Contact me soon before I close sessions to newborns only.

6 - That reminds me about the maternity special, I've had questions from the moms who have booked so far. Your maternity and newborn sessions can be any time the rest of the year, you just need to contact me before April 30.

IF you read that all, thank you!! Pictures again tomorrow yeah!

Sal's Pals Cystic Fibrosis event last night!

2008-04-13T19:48:00.003-04:00

Agh! With all that is going on here, I forgot to mention the auction I participated in last night... I just got this email, and I'm so excited that they brought in so much!!

"Thank you all that helped support Sal's Pals. We appreciate all that you do for us. We are SOOO happy to announce that last night's event made $63,500.00. Our event raises the most money in the area, and we are in the top 20 in the country! People were so generous last night, the Pinardo's are all very grateful."

Visit here: http://www.salspals.com/ for more information!

We had built in babysittters and got to go out last night! We tried the new Granite City Brewery (yummy) and saw a movie out at Fallen Timbers. Leatherheads... I loved the old time imagery, and mmmm George Clooney LOL!

Back to visiting :)

Little break, in-laws visiting

2008-04-12T15:57:00.002-04:00

I'm a little disconnected right now... my in-laws are in town from the West coast and their sleeping area is my computer area. I have been moving my computer at night to get some work done, or I would get really behind!! But I don't have internet access when I do that. So I am checking email sporatically, if you need to talk to me ASAP, call me, my number is on my website.

I also had 3 reschedules this last week, between the weather and out of town trips. So lots to come in the weeks ahead! It also means my weekends are starting to look really busy...definitely call or email me soon if you're thinking about a session.

Ugh this weather!! I got a cool new prop I want to try out soon, but outside!!

OK...until later, enjoy the weekend if you can! I'll attach a few new favorites from the proofs I just finished:

MacQueens again!! Special mini-sessions...

2008-04-09T12:48:00.003-04:00

These are going to be gorgeous, I'm so excited! I've contacted MacQueens again and got permission to hold mini sessions there again... I'm holding them in early May when the apple trees are all in full bloom...can you picture it?

I've got some great ideas for the shoot, but you'll have to contact me for more information!

This will be one of the limited mini sessions I offer each year, so if you are interested definitely let me know as soon as possible!

I know the blooms might appeal more to parent of girls, so I am going to cook up one more mini session this spring geared toward boys. I got a few good ideas and will be making phone calls this week...stay tuned and email me to hear more!

Growing up too fast...

2008-04-07T23:26:00.004-04:00

Today I went out to see how much little B has grown since he 6 month and Christmas sessions, I can't believe he's 1 already!

We have an outdoor session scheduled for later this month, but mom and I wanted to get some in the same spots we had him for his earlier session. I LOVE doing this, I love taking photos in the same chair or bed, seeing how fast babies grow and change.

Remember this one? I use it on my materials a lot, I love it:

Here he is 6 months later:

And walking!

I love his baby blues and mom has the best hats:

Mr. Wiggles :)

2008-04-06T22:51:00.002-04:00

I had a newborn session today... Mr. M was born over a month early! But he was doing well and while I thought he was teeny tiny at around 5 lbs. he was bigger than his older brother had been!

Little M was a real escape artist and wiggle worm. Whenever we put him down, even when he was sleeping, his legs and arms immediately popped out and started waving all over the place. I think his mom and dad are going to have a busy little guy when he can move around on his own.

Mom is a graphics artist and has the best taste in decorating her house! I wish I had gotten the boys in more of it! Definitely next time :) I had to include this ottoman, I want one!

I love new baby wrinkles:

Big brother was such a sweetie!

I had a chance to use my New Zealand wrap, doesn't he have the best hair?

It was so nice to meet you all!

I had caught up on my emails yesterday, but I have a ton of new ones... we went to Sidecut this morning, it was so beautiful out. Then working around the yard... then my session, then dinner, then bath and bedtime. The day just flew by. And now I am going to work on getting back to everyone. If you don't hear back from me today, tomorrow for sure!

Need to buy lottery tickets

2008-04-05T20:27:00.003-04:00

(Warning...cheeseball ahead.)

I swear my oldest, Duncan, is the luckiest person I've ever met. He wins everything! The first sign was when we went to an indoor waterpark a few years ago, he was probably 3. We were at the arcade. One of the first games we go to, you put the token in, it rolls down and has to go in a slot to win anything. He somehow managed to hit the jackpot right away! My husband stood there for at least half an hour while the tickets kept spitting out. While we were gathering up the tickets for that one, Duncan wanted to go do the claw game. You know the one where you never win anything? Well my 3 year old runs over there, puts in one token and runs back with 2 prizes at once!

Ever since then we've seen this happen all the time. He's extremely lucky!

The latest in his string of wins happened earlier this week. Our dentist office, Dr. Zouhary and Dt. Fisher over in Rossford has a monthly contest for a stuffed animal. They've been doing this since I was a little kid going there. My brother and I never won. It sucked :P So Wednesday we got a call that Duncan won!

When he went to pick up the animal, it got even better...it was his favorite animal in the world, a turtle! Duncan has been collecting stuffed turtles for years. He's even been called a turtle, Duncan is a little pokey... always dragging behind in his own little world. But better yet, Duncan won Yertle the Turtle...the king of everything he can see. Duncan promptly told us Yertle would be king of his other stuffed animals :)

(I'm just glad my now 8 year old is still a kid enough to love his stuffed animals. I hope he hangs on for many more years)

And we ARE going to have him give us some numbers for the lottery soon!!

Senior Spokesmodels Wanted

2008-04-04T00:16:00.005-04:00

The search is on! Apply now to be one of the limited Senior Spokesmodels from the class of '09

I know I have a lot of moms reading, do you know any juniors in high school? Your babysitters? nieces or nephews? My spokesmodels will get cool rewards and you'll get a referral credit for your own maternity, family, baby, child, or engagement session.

More details finally!! I apologize for the delay, I had to finish proofing a few sessions, get some orders in, send out my newsletter (you did get it, right? If not sign up at the right!) and now I have a few new pages worth of email replies to the newsletter...so if you are waiting on an email from me, I am working through them and will get back to you soon!!

OK, what does a Senior Spokesmodel get?

• 2 Free Session Fees - 1 now and 1 in the summer or fall when you are tan and the grass is green!
• 50 spokesmodel cards to hand out to your friends
• Proof Book
• 10 web sized images with my watermark to post on your myspace and facebook
• Photographs on my website & blog.
• $30 print credit OR 8 wallets per booked referral.
• Optional gift certificates in place of print credit

Contact me for more information and an application!

Fun girls from Sunday morning

2008-03-31T01:41:00.005-04:00

I will write more tomorrow, but I wanted to put this sneak peek up for the fun fun family from today!

These sisters were toooo adorable! Love their shirts too...I forgot to ask mom about them.

It was so nice to meet you all! Talk to you more soon!

NEW! Maternity special and belated Easter pictures

2008-03-29T15:37:00.012-04:00

Happy last weekend of March!! Hopefully the snow leaves with it! It's been a while since I had a special, so I wanted to put up my favorite kind for this month:

MATERNITY SPECIAL

All maternity sessions are FREEwith the purchase of a newborn session!

Sessions must be paid and reserved before April 30th, sessions may be scheduled for anytime this year.

I'm so far behind... I finally got to my Easter pictures :) Of course Lulu was the only one dressed up and the only one who let me get some pics. Can you tell how much I enjoy having a girl after my 2 boys??

I will be back tomorrow with another new family :) After that I reserved a little time off to catch up on my mile long list and clean for my upcoming visit from my in-laws...

Speaking of cleaning, I finally got the OK to get some help cleaning, so I would LOVE for some recommendations please!!!! I'm so excited about this!

Saturday's session and a Happy Birthday to my oldest!

2008-03-24T23:21:00.006-04:00

I am finally getting to my sneak peak for my Saturday session, I apologize to the family again!!

I had a blast, it was so nice to meet you all! And mom is a fellow artist, I really love her work...and their house was so beautifully decorated! My favorite was some of the stained glass in the windows, and the paintings of course. Mom also has the most beautiful necklaces, and offered that I could put my pictures on them, you all would love them and they would truely be something you couldn't get anywhere else :)

Here is their youngest, he was so cute with the biggest smile and dimples!! But a typical toddler, fast, busy, and easily tired out! Isn't he sweet here?

(Definitely click on these to make them larger! I've increased the size but the smaller pics don't do them justice)

I was so excited when mom and I talked about waiting for dad's tattoo to be done for a shot with his little guy... love this!

And here is their oldest, she is so adorable! She talked my ear off the whole time...so fun!!

I spotted this wedding dress hanging up, mom uses it for her art inspiration... I thought it would be so sweet for a little dress up! Isn't she stunning??

I am gearing up for Senior picture season!! I don't have all my details, but I am plan to have some reps... limited per school. The reps will get perks not available to anyone else!! Contact me now if you are interested! I will be putting up the details soon and I know the opportunities will be snapped up!

And last but not least...Happy Birthday to Duncan! I can't believe I've been a mom for 8 years now!! I've loved it so much!

Yesterday's adorable toddler :)

2008-03-22T23:05:00.005-04:00

Yesterday I had the pleasure of meeting Miss M and her mommy. Little Miss M was all smiles until the camera came out. It was hilarious, camera down...smiles, camera up...serious face! After a little while, she became my best buddy and wanted to climb all over me :) She also likes to sit under her crib. She was so darn cute cute cute!

Such a pretty room:

Played with some textures:

She was quite the dancer, but wouldn't you love to twirl in that pretty dress?

I met with another family today, but I am a little bit behind... my brother is in town, so we had a Wii bowling tournament last night Aidan is so obsessed with this game, he also scores up around 200 and it's so fun watching his victory dances... and watching my grown brother trash-talking a 4 year old.

I met another wonderful family today...so hopefully I will get another sneak peak up soon! But I need to go dig the Easter baskets out of the attic first.

Hope you all have a Happy Easter!

With 1 hour left...

2008-03-17T22:46:00.004-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's day!!

I had to pull Lucy's new dress out for a little shoot in honor of today...

Back to working on proofs :)

Birthday baby and a princess :)

2008-03-16T23:46:00.005-04:00

I'm on a color roll... maybe it's because Spring is around the corner. But these were too pretty in color to convert to black and white yet.

You will probably recognize these two from my website at the orchard. Little sister is a St. Patty baby, so I made a trip to their house for a little cake and cute-overload!

Big sis is definitely princess material. And mom made these adorable covers for their chairs:

I'm not sure if this translates to the smaller web version, but this next one was so dreamy once I processed it that I gasped!

And the birthday girl:

Big sister was showing off her room and friends:

Doesn't she look like she belongs in a magazine in the next one? I think this is a new favorite!

Finally, the birthday girl, her crown, and Wixey's cake! Sweetness!

I hope you had a great party! It was so fun to see how much the girls have changed since the fall.

got some great shots before she crashed...

2008-03-15T18:12:00.004-04:00

I traveled down to Napolean today and met a wonderful family! They just built a beautiful new home...

check out the big shot on the free throw line! (this is in their basement! it's from an old gym that was being torn down, how cool!)

Isn't she gorgeous?? I usually do a few in B&W, but the color was too pretty! (don't worry, I will do some for your gallery!)

I think mom looks like a model in this one:

Such a beautiful family!

Little Miss A had a really rough night last night. When I got there she was all smiles, but she got really tired really fast.

And finally crashed:

It was so nice to meet you all! And I can't wait to come back out to see the par 3 :)

Expecting something special soon...

2008-03-09T22:59:00.008-04:00

I finally had a chance to get a sneak peak ready for the second family from this weekend. They are expecting a new addition before too long... I had a great time with them all, mom and I had so much in common! (and she'll appreciate knowing I stayed up for the whole movie last night! It was Gone Baby, Gone... good movie! Not a feel good movie, but really good!)

I just loved big brother! He is so much like my oldest, they need to get together to draw some comics and put together an animated movie :)

You all know how much I love big windows with my maternity sessions:

Mom is so gorgeous!

Lots of love in store for this new little girl:

Cute cute brother and sister!

2008-03-09T16:21:00.008-04:00

I had 2 sessions yesterday in the ugly weather... but it was so worth it to meet these 2 wonderful families! Although I am not sure if the first family still thinks it was worth it, I left their house probably during the worst of the storm and took their mailbox out!! I was so embarrassed!!

Here are some sneak peaks, little J was the cutest little ham:

And little C was adorable and sweet:

I told mom I am going to steal her chair...she did such a great job redoing it: (and isn't he so handsome?)

And such a pretty smile:

I will definitely get my materity family out later today... but I need to head out for some errands...

Did you get an email??

2008-03-06T01:30:00.005-05:00

If you didn't get an email from me, sign up at the "sign up for our newsletter" selection on the right side of my blog. And don't forget to sign up for the Emma Louise contest for the month of April! The deadline is March 10.

Is this snow crazy or what? I'm ready for spring! I love in home sessions so much, but it would be so nice to step outside for a little while too.

Toooooo adorable!!

2008-03-02T22:19:00.005-05:00

First, I want to say Happy Birthday to my mom!!

I had the 6 month appointment for my first baby plan this morning, I just love this family and this little guy!! I have so many amazing shots, it was hard choose for the blog... But I have not had much time today, so I had to.

Remember my "famous" maternity in front of the window? I get soooo many comments on that silhouette. I've done the maternity, newborn, and now 6 month in the same spot, it will look so good together in a coffee table book at the end of the year:

I love nakey babies:

Mom's request, love it!

And I have adored this room since I first saw it, and she keeps updating! Mom and her 2 best friends actually make these wall hangings and will be selling some soon! I will be first in line and will definitely have a link or info for you all...I do have to say, I think this is my new favorite:

Ahhhh, I missed it!

2008-02-28T22:26:00.004-05:00

I wanted to tell you all about another charity event...this one is so close to my heart. I thought it was tomorrow, but I just realized it was tonight! Who gets to go out on a school night?? Not me...

Tonight, there are lots of people having fun at the Toledo Children's Hospital Wizard of Oz themed event. Someone will win a session and a really cool coffee table album from me. I know it's too late to go to the event, but it is never too late to donate. Did you know they take toys? I never thought about it before I spent a week there with Aidan (11 months ago) and that wonderful playroom and library were lifesavers when you had a scared cranky little one. I really can't imagine the poor families that have to stay longer and the poor little kids who have to stay alone when their parents have to go back to work... They have a huge playroom and take all kinds of toys, they have video players and a library of videos they deliver to your room, video games, and books. It really kept Aidan's mind off of everything and was a good bribe tool to get him to cooperate with the nurses :)

Back to work... I tweaked my back a little, and my husband had been out of town all week so I had all the kid lifting duty myself...the computer chair was not where I wanted to be once they went to bed. but now he's back and I am feeling better but a little behind and trying to catch up!

Happy Leap day tomorrow!!

Bribed my middle child...

2008-02-27T01:04:00.004-05:00

I love his hat but he never will let me take pictures. One brownie and ice cream this weekend and he was happy to cooperate! I was thinking I needed to get the hat pictures in before it gets to warm out, but after today I don't know why in the world I was worried!

Beautiful little girl

2008-02-24T17:58:00.003-05:00

I had my contest winner session this morning... this little cutie is a year and a half old, has the most beautiful curls and blue eyes.

She's fast too...we had to keep catching her, she was having so much fun. I really love this family shot!

She has the sweetest personality too :)

I'll let you all know when she is up at Emma Louise. It was a pleasure to meet you M, S, and L!

I have a ton of emails, I will catch up tonight! It was a busy weekend...

All I have to say is...

2008-02-23T01:07:00.003-05:00

if you don't have tickets to the Lion King yet, BUY THEM NOW! OMG amazing show. Had a date night, but regretted that Duncan was missing it, he would have loved it...I will probably be buying tickets soon to take him (and I want to see it again!)

OK, one more thing I just got a package in the mail today and I'm dying to try it out... one of my photographer friends in New Zealand has her nanna knitting baby wraps for our group out of some of the best wool in the world. I got two and they are sooooo pretty and soft... I may have to borrow a dolly and do some test shots over the weekend!

Watch for the contest winner sneak peeks this weekend.

More from yesterday...

2008-02-17T22:33:00.004-05:00

Now that the little ones are in bed, I can finish what I started yesterday! I met this wonderful family...with an absolutely precious little guy. Here are a few more:

I'm going to catch up on emails now... hope you are all having a nice long weekend!

2 weeker

2008-02-17T17:56:00.004-05:00

This little guy was so adorable!! and wiggly :) Mom and dad are in for trouble!

I have more, but I have a "helper" on my lap right now and she's ornery!

Happy Valentines Day!

2008-02-14T13:08:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to say Happy Valentine's day to everyone!!

You have probably already seen this, but what better shot for today?

The rest I promised...

2008-02-11T01:11:00.001-05:00

A cool chair, a squishy face, and the leather couch. I tried to not go over-board with the vintage look and texture, so you'll have to click on it to view it larger and see what I did...

Sweet 1 month old

2008-02-10T22:08:00.002-05:00

I met the most beautiful family in a gorgeous old house today. I have such a thing for old houses, I love the character... I grew up in old houses , but my first house (out in Portland) was brand new...after that I appreciated what my parents saw in the houses I grew up in. And have a great old house myself now. So I get extra excited when I pull up to a great old house like I did today.

:) And then the sweet little baby girl, I definitely got my baby fix. She is so pretty, isn't she?

Here are the first few sneak peeks for mom and dad, I have about 3 more to share, but I want to get some out for mom and dad to see before it's late late. I'm having fun with a cool leather couch, giving it a vintage feel with some texture. I'll try to put that up later tonight.

But for now, I'll share a little of my baby fix with you:

New lens

2008-02-08T01:51:00.001-05:00

Just playing with my new lens that came in the mail today. It's perfect for newborns...I've rented it before, and I'm so excited to use it this weekend with 2 new babies.

Perfect for eye details :)

And look close at this one, the light from the windows make a really cool pattern in his eyes.

To help with my email issues, I now have a newletter sign up. I will only use this newsletter once or twice a month, I don't want to bother anyone! But please sign up to the right or you will no longer receive my news and specials in your inbox! I appreciate you taking the time :)

Still having email problems

2008-02-07T01:26:00.001-05:00

This time I've had a client get a failure trying to send me an email... if this is happening to you, please call! I will be contacting a few of you tomorrow, but if you are expecting an email from me and don't have it, let me know. I am all caught up on my replies back to clients. (my friends, yes, I know I am horribly behind!)

I just finished my first 5x5 art album for the 1 year old twins... it's so adorable, I am going to check with mom and dad about getting another one for a sample...

Just 1, cutie pie 1 year old

2008-02-04T01:11:00.001-05:00

Quick 1 and then bedtime... She's so adorable! Another repeat...I love watching the babies grow up! Went for a film grain look to my black and white, love the old feel to this.

Lucy has a cold and was very cuddly this weekend. Poor thing, but I do love her sweet little head on my shoulder. Her nap time was cut very short today, so I am a little behind on album designs.

Email Issues and custom wrap

2008-02-03T01:49:00.001-05:00

It's come up recently that a client wasn't receiving emails from me. I tried emailing myself and it went to my Bulk folder...well that isn't good!! So please, if you were expecting an email from me and didn't receive anything, call or email me and let me know!!! And check your Bulk/Spam/Jumk folders or blocked address list (I hope I'm not in there!)

In the meantime, I did too much research into what could cause this tonight. One thing I found is that some email filters don't like when you link to the site I use to blog. I've taken that link out, emailed myself again and it went through to my inbox, yeah!!! SOO, hopefully that is solved, but I am now wondering what all got lost. I apologize to you all!!

I've been busy trying to work this weekend on some albums and canvas custom orders... and I have another session to get to and put a sneak peak up here, hopefully I can get that up tomorrow!

One last thing...I've been working on a sample for the 12x12 decorative canvas to bring along to show. I just found this program where I can show you what it will look like until you see me next! Cool huh? I'm working on this one for Lucy's room, two birds, one stone :)

New Store

2008-02-01T22:43:00.001-05:00

Thinking about the benefit, I almost forgot the other news I wanted to share...

The new Emma Louise store is open!! Still in Levis Commons, closer to the main strip, right near Fiddlestix if you know where that is. I went in today to deliver the contest winner picture and I just ADORE the new look! I will have to get the name of the talented lady that painted the designs on the walls... you have to go in and see. And I was excited when I saw some of the new things they're selling, more gift items. The cutest rain jackets and matching boots which I will have to get for some fun puddle splashing sessions! Spring will be here soon!

And check out the new contest winner gallery on my site and don't forget to enter for next month!

I will have some new pictures tomorrow!

A great cause!

2008-02-01T22:29:00.000-05:00

If you are looking for something to do tomorrow night and help out a local family at the same time, consider going to the Share Your Love Benefit for the Babcock family. You can bid on a session with me and some other great auction items and enjoy a great meal. While I don't personally know the Babcocks, my heart goes out to them and I hope the benefit is a huge success!

Here are the details:
Saturday, February 2, 2008 - 5 – 8 p.m.
Held at Maumee United Methodist Church
Spaghetti Dinner - Silent Auction Entertainment for ALL ages
Plan now to share your love with Valerie, Eric & Lydia Babcock as Eric recovers from surgery and treatments for cancer. A fund-raiser spaghetti dinner, silent auctionand an evening of entertainment is planned for Saturday, Feb. 2nd. You can help by:
This benefit is being hosted by MUMC members, Preschool Board & Friends in conjunction with Thrivent Lutheran Brotherhood which will match funds raised through this event.

The contest winner for Feb...

2008-01-27T23:03:00.001-05:00

The winner this month is a February baby...years ago! She's also a repeat client and I love visiting their house, they have the most beautiful light and woodwork!

And she is such a fun girl!

Although mom wanted a serious look... I think she'll LOVE this one!

But we were quickly back to Miss Smile:

I have a ton of emails to get back to and I am working on them! Please be patient with me! With the big birthday boy's parties, running errands, cleaning, and shoots I didn't even turn the computer on until this afternoon!

I did see that the Junior League Chocolate Soiree was a big success! I'm so excited for them and to meet the family that won the session and coffee table album!

One last thing, if you haven't noticed yet, I have a new look! I've gotten some great response to my new site... just realize it is still under construction! I have to resize all the pictures and have been working back from my more recent sessions before I go to the older ones on my external drive. So keep watching for changes!

Don't forget to email me to get in on the next contest! The new Emma Louise store will be open in a week!

Just Lucy

2008-01-24T00:48:00.000-05:00

Just a few of Lucy, most from today...

Thanks Grandma! Lucy loved her Christmas gifts!

No smiles for me today...she knows all my tricks.

Aww baby...

She dumped the whole box of legos and then gave me this look:

Stay tuned for the contest winner's session! Don't forget to sign up for next month...

I am working on my website and I am *this* close! So check it out, let me know what you think, but ignore the mess!

Aidan turns 4 tomorrow...I mean today! Whah! I can't believe it! We've got 3 days in a row of partying so I apologize if it takes me a little longer to get back to you...but I will get back to you!

Still here!

2008-01-20T22:55:00.000-05:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a while... I am still here just very very busy! Working on sessions, web site, updating the ordering system with the new packages, learning some new software that will rock once I get the hang of it!

I got my coffee table sample album in! I took a few pictures today because this will be going to the Junior League soon to display for their auction. Which is Friday, here is the link for more info: http://www.jltoledo.org/toledo/npo.jsp;jsessionid=01330E28C892304B84184535B86CD63A?pg=fundraiser&article=505

The auction will be for a session and one of these albums! You can get so creative with them too. Simple and modern, bright and fun, vintage or shabby.

I am probably including too many shots, but I LOVE these books! I will be ordering a 5x5 inch sample soon and a few for myself.

The cover and frosted sleeve:

The cover without the sleeve:

The back cover:

Some inside pages:

New prices and the Chocolate Soiree

2008-01-14T23:26:00.000-05:00

Well, I finally broke down and put my new prices up on the current website. I had wanted to launch the price changes and the new site at once... I am working hard to get the new site done, but I am such a perfectionist it's slow going. Plus I am working on so many other things!

So you can check out the new prices, collections, packages, and offerings here: http://www.jennifermott.com/

The main things I changed

I lowered the prices of my 11x14 and larger prints and canvases. I think these look so much better on walls...I want to see more ordered and really show off those adorable kids!

I've added a Boutique section. This includes all kinds of specialty items like those coffee table albums that look like scrapbooks, or styled in simple art book form to show off the images. I have sets of low resolution digital files in the boutique so you can put the pictures on your iPod or myspace or those digital frames you got for Christmas.

I'm designing square canvas wraps that will be customizable to your child's room decor.

The collections and baby packages are now totally flexible. Each has a credit you can spend however you want. I also increased the value of all the collections and packages.

AND all the collections include digital files and a release to print them as many times as you would like.

I'm not done with all my changes, so watch here for more soon!

I thought I would share some of the calendar pages that the contest winners are going to receive, I love these calendars, so cute!

And finally... I want to share some information about a wonderful program I am excited to support! The Toledo Junior League are throwing the Chocolate Soiree fundraiser on Jan. 25. The event features chocolate dessert tasting and live music by Johnny Rocker and the Hitmen...what more could you ask for? The fundraiser supports all the wonderful community work the Junior League does right here in Toledo. There is also a silent auction which will include a session with me and a custom 10x10 inch coffee table album!

Winners

2008-01-09T22:16:00.000-05:00

The top three images were all so close, there were many many times when they all had the exact same number of votes... so I have decided that both 2nd and 3rd place get calendars!

Soooooooo in 3rd place is this yummy chubby baby:

In 2nd place was little Mr. Serious:

And in a come from behind win is Miss I Am So Done With That Camera:

Congratulations to you all! I will be emailing you with the details! Thank you to everyone for voting!

WOW!

2008-01-09T21:08:00.000-05:00

Man, that was soooo close! I am trying to see if I can show the results to you... give me a couple minutes. 1st place won by 1 vote!

I'll be back in a couple minutes... meanwhile don't do this:

OK...I have figured out a decent way to show you how close it all was... look at these charts (I like charts)

I'll reveal the winners at 11...

22 hours left to vote!

2008-01-08T21:50:00.000-05:00

I just have to say how much fun I've been having watching the votes come in! It is soooo close it's pretty unbelievable.

At one point yesterday there was a 3 way tie for 1st. Just a vote or two seperate them now and it's constantly changing!

OK, back to work...

First newborn of the year...

2008-01-06T18:56:00.000-05:00

...was supposed to be my last newborn of the year. This beautiful little girl was only 17 days late! She had the biggest, most beautiful eyes! Which more than made up for her not wanting to sleep for me at all. Definitely click to see these eyes bigger!

Now, I am amazed by these next ones... she was only 8 days old and giving big real smiles to her mom and dad!

I have so many more...it was so hard to pick for the sneak peak! I haven't had much time this weekend to work, but I wanted to get these out and see what her mom thinks to get started on her birth announcement. I may share more soon.

Don't forget to vote and get your friends to vote! I am having fun watching the results, they are SOOO close!

I have a bunch of emails to return and will try to later tonight after the crazies, um kids, get to bed.

Favorites of 2007

2008-01-03T23:31:00.000-05:00

OK, the contest is on! I tried really hard to narrow it down to 10, but I just couldn't, so we have 20 entries!! I limited it to 1 per family so you won't have to split your votes. Choosing the images was so hard and I apologize to anyone left out!

First, the prizes! First place gets to choose the pendant of their choice! Tile or frame, excluding the "All My Heart Locket" Lots of others to choose from, check them out here:

http://jennifermott-products.blogspot.com/2007/10/jewelry.html

Second place is a 5x7 calendar from my favorite designer. Includes 12 prints, you switch them out of your frame every month. See examples here:

http://jennifermott-products.blogspot.com/2008/01/calendars.html

Next the rules/details. One vote per computer...I can see if you cheat :) Voting ends Jan 9 at 8PM EST Email your friends and family, post on your forums...whatever you want to do is fair game. I will be having my friends, family, and photographer friends vote as well to get some impartial votes too.

And now the entries:

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Blog_Contest_11:

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Blog_Contest_20:

Happy New Year!!!

2008-01-02T12:30:00.000-05:00

A little late with my wishes for the new year, sorry! I hope you all had a safe and fun holiday season!

I've been crazy busy as always! Since I started the business early in the year, I've been told again and again it will slow down after Christmas... I'm still waiting! Just kidding, I am so grateful for you all and love what I am doing!

Lots to share today... first is that I am still waiting to put the January winner up at the store. I didn't get the session in before my lab closed for the holidays (I also didn't realized they closed for 10 days in a row...) So as soon as I get her picture up I will let you know! Don't forget to email me or sign up in the store!

Next is a new offering, custom coffee table books. I am designing them myself with you in mind, and we can go modern and let the images stand out on their own or go for a fun creative scrapbook feel. I just sent in my order for my sample book (they were closed until today too!!) and here are the cover and first page:

Cover (back/binding/front): (definitely click to see larger, it looks tiny here...)

First page:

These books will be available in 10x10 and 5x5 versions. Standard are 20 pages, but more pages are available. I will put some pictures up when I get mine in, you will love them! They are definitely the highest quality and such a cool way to show off your kids...

A new website and new pricing are also coming soon! Don't worry, I will not be raising prices on my 8x10s, 5x7s, wallets... I am trying to make my collections simple and add more digital file options. I'm also adding one of a kind things like the new books and square decorative canvases!

But wait, there's more! Ha ha... the best of 2007 contest will start soon! First place will be a photo pendant and second a 5x7 custom calendar using images from your session... stay tuned and get your friends ready to vote!

Finally, some pictures of Lucy (she was the only cooperative one) for Grandmas:

Twins :)

2007-12-29T18:14:00.000-05:00

Aren't these two just the cutest ever? I wanted to sneak them home with me...I always wanted twins, but I came to my senses when I thought about 3 one year olds at once! They were all smiles for most of their session :)

One quick sneak peak...

2007-12-28T01:28:00.000-05:00

Just one, not too close up, because if I post too many, I will get another flood of emails wanting to set him up like my last set of bachelor portraits! :)

Hopefully he will see it before he leaves on his yacht tour of the Caribbean (OK so I am bitterly jealous!!)

Did some urban shots for his construction/contractor business website. Amazing how much he has done with old buildings already...

Soooo... the year is wrapping up, and one of my friends from a photographer's group had a brilliant contest idea that I will be stealing! (with permission of course because stealing is bad!)

I am going to let you all vote for the best images of 2007! Since I have 2 sessions left this weekend, (and I still need to figure out how to get the vote thingy set up here) the contest will start early next year... I will pick my favorites and let you and your friends and family vote. There will be some great prizes for the winning families...

One more thing for you all to think about...Valentines day! It will be here before you know it! Ladies, have you any ideas what to get your favorite men? I have an idea that will knock their socks off... shoot me an email if you are interested and I will let you know what I have in mind :)

She can't be in 7th grade!

2007-12-23T21:55:00.000-05:00

I could swear this was a high school senior going over these shots this weekend! Isn't she beautiful??

I had the best time with M and D yesterday! Miss. M is my contest winner for January, so watch for her up at Emma Louise soon.

They were up for anything in the cold... I was so glad it was warmer than usual, but I'm sad now that it doesn't look like a white Christmas is going to happen!

I had the hardest time picking just a few to show, I have so many I loved! I had to ask her for a serious look:

But she had a beautiful smile, so I got many, many more of these:

And a fun retro look to end!

Don't forget to enter the contest for Febraury! Don't worry I won't make you go out in the cold... Also, check out my main page of my website if you haven't yet, I have a little holiday message.

And have a very merry Christmas! I can't believe it's here already! Be safe and have fun with your families!

In the middle of crazy :)

2007-12-18T12:50:00.000-05:00

Are the days and nights going faster and faster or is it just me? As much as I go and go, the list never gets shorter...hmm.

I am waiting on one more order to come in, but the rest are packaged and ready. I've got delivery times set up for almost everyone... If not I will be calling in the next day or two.

I am almost done shopping. Just a few more to go. Of course they are the hardest to shop for...

Then wrapping. Sigh.

I've updated my website a little in the last few days. I hadn't put any new pictures up in a long while so I rotated some in. Check out my new slideshow on the homepage, it will only be there a short time and it is my version of a holiday card to all of you! http://www.jennifermott.com/

Also, check out the product page... http://jennifermott-products.blogspot.com/ I put a picture of my DVD and Brag Album up and forgot to post here to let you know.

I have some baby announcements I need to add, same designer as most of my Christmas cards. I will be making up one for Lucy to put in her baby book since I am a bad mother and never got around to sending one out for her. Poor 3rd child. So check back for those...

Look for the contest winner for January this weekend...and don't forget to email me or sign up in the store for February's contest! And possibly a newborn this weekend too, just awaiting her arrival :)

And a picture to end it, my favorite from my Christmas card, because this one is my hardest to photograph lately, I finally got a good non-cheesy smile:

Digging back to November

2007-12-14T00:41:00.000-05:00

I wanted fall pictures of all my kids, I have this spot in the dining room... but I've been so busy. Tonight I took a break for a few minutes to dig back through my files to find these 2 of Lucy.

Couldn't decide, color or b/w...

Weekend session...last day for contest!

2007-12-12T00:22:00.000-05:00

Had a session this weekend at some of the coolest spots around. Mom preferred not to have pics on the blog, so I thought I would share the OTHER adorable little girl I shot that day:

Your cards are all in, mine are on the way, yeah! I can't believe Christmas is less than 2 weeks away!! Time for me to get moving on that shopping stuff!

Tomorrow is the last day for the contest this month!! I want to try to get the session in this weekend... good luck!

Holiday magic

2007-12-07T23:24:00.001-05:00

Tis the season :) Well, I got it up! Now for the rest of the decorations. Maybe this weekend...

I finished our cards, I'm feeling accomplished! I just checked and the last of my client's cards have shipped as of tonight. Yeah!

Check back this weekend, I have a fun session tomorrow!

Finally those sweet girls from Sunday!!

2007-12-05T01:09:00.000-05:00

Just a couple quick ones... I am going to bed before 2 for once... Still have a couple things to do too.

Aren't their holiday decorations GORGEOUS??

They were DONE! I love these type of pictures though :) Real life, oh yeah!

That's it...tomorrow I hope to get to those pics of my kids I took for our cards. Hopefully I can get my cards out before the year ends, we will see!

More Christmas sessions

2007-12-03T00:24:00.000-05:00

These two are from my 2nd session Saturday... I only have younger brother this time. I'll have to put older bro up, he's so cute too! But right now I only have him on the card and I don't want to put names up...

Here is the baby brother from the adorable little boy I posted yesterday. So stinking cute!!

More tomorrow, I had 2 beautiful girls in such pretty dresses today...

Festive

2007-12-01T14:53:00.000-05:00

The first pic from 2 sessions this morning... probably the only one I'll get to until tonight...my cling on, I mean, Lucy is up...

What a cutie, huh???

If you didn't see my email, the contest winner for December is up at Emma Louise and in the galleries on my web page...check her out!

Email me or go into the store if you want to enter for January. Drawing is Dec. 12 so we can take the pictures Dec. 15-16 weekend before Christmas.

Lucy in her room...and a birthday

2007-11-27T13:33:00.000-05:00

First I want to tell Tim Happy Birthday!! I mean Happy day you were born on but we're not celebrating...

I don't think I've shown any pictures of Lucy in her room yet... dad did a beautiful job as always of completely remodeling it.

In the background you can see her name letters from Emma Louise, I will focus on them next time, turned out so beautiful. Her room is pink with lots of blue... so I got half blue with white polka dots and half white with pink and blue flowers, perfect!
I love my new camera too... I would have never been able to get these shots with my old one. This camera is full frame to allow me to take it all in, her room is small. Look at this goof:

I am working late late nights to get proofs out and orders in...just wanted to say thanks again for everyone's understanding of this busy time!

Contest Winner for December!

2007-11-26T00:16:00.000-05:00

Well, I didn't blog about the winner being chosen this month because I wasn't able to schedule with the original winner. (And if the first winner is reading this, please contact me and we will work something out)

With my deadline quickly approaching, I drew a second name and set up a session with a beautiful 4 month old baby girl.

Here are a few shots from our session... the display portrait has been ordered for Emma Louise, very Christmasy and adorable! I'll send something out when they hang it up.

If you would like to enter the drawing for the month of January, please email me or go into the store and enter! The session will be mid- to late December.

From Friday

2007-11-25T22:48:00.000-05:00

Hope you all had a very nice Thanksgiving weekend!

More bedroom shots...a theme huh? I just thought I could show you all how much fun an indoor photoshoot can be for your kids in your home...I love these kind of sessions, so much personality:

Isn't she absolutely adorable?

I've got more, probably later tonight...

Had to share from proofing

2007-11-24T01:42:00.000-05:00

I've been working on proofing...and I have to share this little collage I made. This little guy was so expressive, so cute! I was cracking up at some of the faces he was making... so I put the best ones together. He was being really patient while we were trying to get his younger brother to cooperate.

I haven't had time to get a sneak peak up from this morning, sorry A and M if you've been looking...I will try to get one soon, they were sooo cute!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2007-11-22T23:55:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to get this posted before the day ends, Happy Thanksgiving to you all!!

I'm so thankful for my family and friends, the wonderful families I've met this year through my photography, and for the wonderful life I'm so lucky to be living.

I've been so busy getting proofs done, cards designed, and orders ready. I've been really bad about putting pictures on my blog, I'm sorry!! About one more week of craziness...then it'll be time to catch up on Christmas shopping, cleaning, decorations, and my cards!

I have some sessions this weekend, so look for some pictures. I have a bunch of my kids too...but haven't had time to look at them... off to work some more :) Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

More jumping :)

2007-11-19T01:42:00.000-05:00

Trying to get you all in the mood for fun indoor shoots this winter! Here are a couple from today:

I had an outdoor shoot too, perfect day! But I am sooo far behind that will have to wait! Thank you for being so understanding, I know you have all been patient!

Just a quick reminder...

2007-11-15T01:00:00.000-05:00

Only 23 hours left to get in on the contest to win a mini session, 8x10, and your child's picture displayed in Emma Louise for the month of December!

Just email me, jennifer@jennifermott.com

Last one tonight, well this morning :)

2007-11-14T00:16:00.000-05:00

What's more fun than being allowed to jump on your bed??

Adorable little guys!

2007-11-13T23:04:00.000-05:00

Still catching up on everything!

We had to reschedule these brothers because of rain...and this day wasn't much better! We lucked into a lull in the rain and were only sprinkled on once! Too bad we didn't have a magic ball to see how beautiful it was going to be today! But we did well in Mission Impossible...I mean Mission Get a One Year Old and Three Year Old To Stay Close Together and Smile!

This was the first shot of the day, I took it as a good sign:

Big brother was so patient while we worked to get little brother to cooperate. But I am going to put together a collage of the various faces I got of him. He has to be the most expressive 3 year old I've seen! And he has the dance moves!

I can't wait to show you the rest... It was a pleasure meeting you all!

Newborn baby boy

2007-11-13T01:04:00.000-05:00

Here are two I couldn't resist of the sweet little guy...The little teddy bear was too cute! He was a very happy baby and put up with a lot from me! Great to meet all of you!

I am not going to get to my other sessions tonight, I'm sorry! Very soon, thanks for your patience!!

Last of the Christmas cards are on my product blog!

2007-11-13T00:01:00.000-05:00

Click the link on the right...I put the last couple up. One more from my favorite designer and the others in some different styles from some other wonderful designers.

I am working hard to keep up with proofs and sessions! I'm three sessions behind on my blog sneak peaks. I've been editing the first one so I should have at least one up tonight. A newborn :) I was telling mom, I love newborn sessions because I get my newborn fix, but I get sad that mine are getting older and I won't be having any more...

I will add some pics of my kids that I did a few weeks ago but never posted. I recently got a new camera and these were what I got when I was testing it out:

(Make sure you click to see them better, blogger makes them look fuzzy)

6 month old sweetie

2007-11-06T22:28:00.000-05:00

This little guy was sooo active! I am still laughing about how tough mom and dad will have it when he's 2... six months and crawling all over the place. And he fakes coughs to get a laugh! I just love getting to know the kids I shoot (that sounds bad!) and their personalities. Isn't he so adorable? I love his eyes!

We were originally going to have an outdoor session, but man was it cold today! So Grandma and Grandpa offered up their downtown loft. I felt like I was in Chicago! I was in love...I am all about architecture and old renovated places.

He warmed up to me by the end and I got big smiles:

I think this is a new favorite:

More from the mini sessions

2007-11-05T00:39:00.000-05:00

More gap girls! I haven't had time to go shop yet either... man are these outfits so so cute!!

These two were the sweetest, happiest little girls! And just gorgeous!!

I went home and told my oldest son I've got a girlfriend lined up for him :) And they managed to meet hours later while we were out running errands!

And this little one did not stop smiling! Loved her!!

Again...busy day. I didn't get on the computer until late late. I planned on a night off, but I had to write a note for my son who missed school last week, and then I decided I wasn't tired anymore. But now I feel better about getting some more sneak peaks out, so bedtime!

Crazy day...one orchard sneak peek

2007-11-04T00:43:00.000-04:00

It was a busy day today... the mini sessions at MacQueens were perfect! The weather, the wonderful families!! I this it is so beautiful out there too...I keep finding cool new spots.

It was Gap ad day too :) I LOVED the clothing choices everyone made and I am planning a trip to get some new clothes soon!

Here are two from the first session, these outfits couldn't be any more perfect for the orchard...the red boots are amazing with the apples, and I am in love with sweater dresses right now. And these girls could not be any more adorable! Beautiful, beautiful!

See? Total Gap ads! You can blame my Lucy for not having more. We had our school carnival this evening...get home at 9, which is normal bed time. The kids were wound up, and we figured with the time change we could let them stay up later. The boys were in bed by 10. And Lucy? She was busy busy until 11:30! So, I will work on some more shots tomorrow... and don't forget to change your clocks!

Halloween...

2007-11-02T12:59:00.000-04:00

Just a few days late! But I had to share these :)

My oldest was Optimus Prime, from transformers. While trick or treating people were either confused about what the heck he was supposed to be, or were transformer fans who loved it. I would have been in the first group...

Then my middle child. He wanted to be the other transformer, Bumblebee...but those costumes are only available in Australia for $90, and that doesn't include shipping! So after trying to convince him that an actual "bee" costume would work, he saw this Bob the tomato costume online and all was well...

Then my baby girl... after years of star wars and spiderman...I had to go pink princess! (I actually thought the raggedy ann ones were adorable, but sold out)

The hat did not go over well...

But take that off and give her a milky way and we were good to go!

I sent an email out, but if you didn't see it... the winner of the Emma Louise contest for November is now on display at the store! And I have added a gallery on my webpage with a few of the other shots from his session! You should really make a trip to the store to check out the picture, he is adorable and it looks great! Send me an email for the December contest if you want to be entered and haven't already!

Tomorrow is MacQueen's mini sessions! For those coming, please try to not laugh at me as I have seemed to lost my voice! It's coming and going and the kids will probably get a kick out of me sounding like a frog :)

Apple Orchard

2007-10-29T23:20:00.000-04:00

I had a mini session at the MacQueen apple orchard tonight. Little C was such a cutie pie! He had the most adorable curls!

This shoot made me even more excited for my sessions Saturday. There are so many beautiful spots there...

It was so nice to meet you D and C!

I have one spot left for Saturday, left me know ASAP if you are interested!

Shhhhh...

2007-10-27T23:37:00.000-04:00

Don't tell mom :) This brother/sister pair were so sweet to do this for their mom... and they braved the ugly weather. I want shots like these when my kids grow up.

I also want to set up a studio on their property. Gorgeous! Loved this shed behind a little bridge over a stream... the whole gang:

Who says skipping is just for kids?

Then we got a few with their boyfriend and girlfriend and dog...

I really enjoyed meeting you all today! And guys, I hope it wasn't too painful :)

And I want to say hi to my new favorite Tennessee resident! Another photographer let me know you are complimenting me to your clients! THANK YOU :) (and wow, what a small world!!) Drop me a note if you have a chance and let me know which of my clients is your nephew... and hey, I travel and have never been to Tennessee he he...

Some of mine

2007-10-26T22:29:00.000-04:00

From the pumpkin patch last weekend. Missing my oldest as usual because he was being too goofy. I'm going to try this weekend, he's got a new hat and looks so grown up in it.

Lots of stuff I am behind on, so I am getting back to work!

Try again...

2007-10-23T07:42:00.000-04:00

Whew... it's been crazy just since I posted last! I thought I was going to sleep...Miss. Lucy had other ideas. She's usually a great sleeper too. Luckily Tim was able to finally calm her down early early this morning. THEN...my tire blew on 23 in the rain and dark this morning. I totally freaked out as I was swerving in heavy traffic...made it to the tireman at the exit, and walked for half an hour in the rain. Now I'm just waiting for them to open. Funny thing is Tim gave me a hard time for wearing my ballet flats this morning in this weather, and I didn't think it was a big deal since I wouldn't be out in it! My feet are squishing :)

OK, the rest of my weekend sessions...

I LOVE H's piggy tails here, isn't she adorable? I love that coat too, I wanted to get it for Lucy but they didn't have her size...the more I see it the more I love it, I might have to search online, hmmm...

Sunday I had my session with 3 year old twins that had been postponed twice for weather. We couldn't have picked a better day! The girls were so gorgeous...and fast! I was exhausted by the end, there were too many stairs at this park!

Meet C:

I came home with a purse full of leaves, sticks, pinecones, and those long pod-things. They were so sweet!

And S:

We were checking out the geese on the way out:

If you look close at this one you can see goose spit/drool lol! I can't believe she got so close!! Mom and dad seemed ok with it, I was a little bit nervous this would turn into a wild animal attack shoot...

Some more from the rest of my weekend

2007-10-23T01:05:00.001-04:00

Quick post, time for bed again... after I get all the school paperwork out of the way. Where does the time go??

Ugh, I have tried 5 times to upload pics and keep getting errors. I will try again first thing in the morning, I am sorry for those who are waiting!!

Sneak peek from the November contest winner!

2007-10-21T22:08:00.000-04:00

I haven't had time to get on the computer for more than 5 minnutes all weekend...til now! Time to catch up.

First, I wanted to go through my shots from my session with G, the 9 and a half month adorable little boy who won the first child of the month contest! I got sooo many great pictures of him during our mini session, but I am going to hold back my favorites until I choose THE portrait for the store display...I want that one to be a surprise on November 1. So here are 2 for now, and mom and dad, don't worry, I won't hold them back from you...I will email you soon with the rest.

Time to go work some more... J and L, I will try to get a sneak out tonight for you too, but it may be tomorrow.

More cards!

2007-10-20T01:05:00.000-04:00

Two more Christmas cards! Let me know if you like all of them if you have a chance!

http://jennifermott-products.blogspot.com/2007/10/christmas-cards-part-3.html

Had another reschedule tonight because of the weather. Lets cross our fingers for the weekend... tomorrow I get to meet my little contest winner!

Incorrect emails and Christmas cards

2007-10-18T13:14:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to let you know I put some new Christmas cards up last night. One of them is my favorite...guess which! click: http://jennifermott-products.blogspot.com/2007/10/christmas-cards-part-2.html

And, I sent out the email about the contest winner and next month's drawing. If you didn't get one, you either only gave me your phone number or I messed up your email address and I got a failure notice.

I received failures for Jill with 2 (kids! lol maybe that will help everyone figure out if I am talking about them!), Marjie with 3, JacQue with 2, Celina with 2, Heather who is expecting, Karen with 2, Lori with 1, Shawna with 1, Heather with 1, Andrea with 1, Serena with 3, Sue with 2, Staci with 2, Susan with 3, Melissa with 2, Amy Jo with 2, Beth with 1, Barbie with 2, and Pam with 4.

Either way, if you want to get in on the contest and win a mini session and 8x10 free and have your child be a star at Emma Louise during December, email me here: mailto:jennifer@jennifermott.com

The rest of my year is almost booked up, so let me know quick if you're interested so we can fit your session in!

Winner and the orchard

2007-10-16T15:43:00.000-04:00

Whew... I just want to thank everyone for the overwhelmingly wonderful response I received at the festival Sunday! I had a great day and I really enjoyed talking to and meeting as many of you as I did. I know I got cut short with others or didn't get a chance to get to some of you... you can always call or email me! I really think this is the best job in the world :)

I ended up putting 379 entries into my database after the weekend, what a wonderful turnout for a brand new contest! The random software choose #245, and I will be trying to get in touch with the mom of that child very soon...

I will send out an email to everyone tonight, if you do not receieve it I either did not get your email address or I had a hard time reading it and accidentally typed the wrong address. If you do not get something by tomorrow and would like to be on my list, please let me know! I don't like "spam" type emails any more than you do, so I promise I only send emails out when I have something good!

I have a few spots left for the MacQueen apple orchard mini sessions...I know there were some waiting to find out if they won or not first... so let me know ASAP if you are interested or you will miss out! I have one more weekend day open before the Christmas deadline, and will either set up more mini sessions or one full session based on what requests I get first...

Also, I added this to my mini session information on my website, but I want to let you know here too... based on a request, the mini packages with cards can be upgraded to full sessions for larger families for an extra $50. Great deals and only available until Thanksgiving weekend!

We went to an apple orchard Saturday and while my boys were off searching, I took a few pics of Lucy... I wish she had let me take her coat off, but they are still cute :) And she has definite photographer's child syndrome, she will not look at the camera...my kids are the hardest to work with!!

PS - L , I am so glad we postponed today, yicky weather!!

Booth and orchard pics

2007-10-16T01:11:00.000-04:00

Real quick before I crash... Here are a few pictures of my booth for those that were asking:

And a few of Lucy at the apple orchard Saturday. The boys were off trying to find golden delicious...the trees were almost bare. OK, those will have to wait, blogger is giving me errors :(

Tomorrow!

PS - Contest for the November child of the month has ended! I will announce the totals and let the winner know as soon as possible!

ZZZZZZZZ...

2007-10-14T22:45:00.000-04:00

OK, can you tell I am ready for bed??

WOW! What an exciting and long day! The Applebutter Festival in Grand Rapids was a blast! I really enjoyed meeting all the new families and kids and seeing lots of familiar faces!

It was really such a great way to show off some of my products that you can't get a good feel for ordering online. The canvas was a HUGE hit, as well as the brag book (the accordian style book) and the session album. Oh and the mounted storyboard with the beveled edges really got attention too!

And of course my gorgeous past and current clients in my pictures were a big draw. I want to thank those moms and dads who allow me to display their children's portraits.

I actually ran out of the 500+ business cards I had and went halfway through my stack of postcards...which were geared toward babies, but apply to any session.

I also have tons of entries for the Emma Louise contest to add...tomorrow is the last day! The drawing will be Tuesday unless I am not able to enter everyone in time...will try my best!

But for now I am crashing, it's been a very long day and week and month :) I have a lot of emails to get back to, I didn't get a chance to get on my computer all weekend...so I apologize and I promise to return them tomorrow.

OH! And I decided to put Christmas cards up bit by bit, I haven't had time to get to all of them. These two are by a wonderful designer named Tina. I just love them:

http://jennifermott-products.blogspot.com/2007/10/christmas-cards-part-1.html

Watch for more soon!

Mini package

2007-10-12T13:52:00.001-04:00

There are a limited number of mini sessions available at MacQueens apple orchard on Nov 3. These sessions are suitable for one or two children, 6 months and up. I have a pretty brown blanket, perfect for fall and/or a basket for them to sit in at that age. Depending on interest, I may set up another mini session day, this time at a park. I will also offer limited mini sessions at your homes, contact me for details.

Mini sessions will only be available until November 25.

I will post Christmas card examples tonight or tomorrow. They are really beautiful and will stand out...the flat cards are not your typical card. They have designs and pictures on both sides. I like to put an out-take or feet picture on the back. They are printed press quality not photo paper.

Announcements!

2007-10-09T23:34:00.000-04:00

OK, I feel like I am the principal at school or something...so sit down and pay attention please!

He he...I need some sleep!

I have been working crazy hours the last few weeks. I've had several "projects" in the works in addition to my normal sessions and editing.

First... This is the LAST week to enter the Emma Louise Child of the Month contest for November!! Next Monday Oct. 15 is the deadline. We've had a ton of interest and I am so excited to find out who wins and set up our mini session! And then to put up a big print in the store and on my website! (which means I need to update my website...) So just email me your info or stop in at Emma Louise!

That all reminds me, have you heard Emma Lousie in the news when they are talking about the new shops opening at Levis Commons? I'm so excited to see what their new layout looks like. Did you know right now they are off to the left when you enter, way over by the apartments? I discovered a new fun kid spot 2 doors down too, the East of Chicago over there has mini bowling lanes!! With little 3 year old friendly sized balls. Aidan was in heaven! (he went through a bowling obsession not too long ago...)

OK, back to announcements! I would not make a good principal!!

Second! I am going to have a booth at the Grand Rapids Applebutter festival this Sunday! I will be over by the Jr. High school, so come find me! I will have some recent shots printed up big, gift certificates, shower gifts which include gift certificates, sample albums, canvas, and sign ups for the contest and sign ups for sessions! So come visit and say hi...I'll be the exhausted one as set up starts at 4:30AM!!

Third... I have set up a fall mini session day for Saturday, Nov. 3. I have VERY limited openings, the sessions are 20 minutes, and this will be set up for 1 or 2 children only because of the time limits. If time allows I will do a quick family shot as well. $50 will reserve your session, and I will be publishing my packages for this tomorrow. Oh, I forgot the location is at MacQueen's orchard in Holland! I have a session next week where we were initially discussing the orchard as a location, but settled somewhere else...since I had already gotten permission from Marlene at MacQueens (Thanks Marlene!!) to shoot there, and thought it would be perfect for these sessions, the rows of trees, pond, and buildings are so beautiful...

The following Saturday will be my cut off date for Christmas card orders, so plan ahead!!

OK, back to work...

These boys wore me out!

2007-10-06T23:09:00.000-04:00

I am so tired after chasing these cuties around! Dad graciously offered me a juicebox...who would have thought it would be almost 90 in October? These two little guys were busy...and adorable!

Neatest story about this shoot. Mom saw the article about me in the July Toledo Parents news. Speed ahead to September when she decided to book, she noticed a few of the kids on my website looked familiar. It turns out that her oldest son is in my middle son's preschool class! She recognized him and one other little girl who had her family pictures taken. I thought that was pretty crazy alone, but it gets better!

So at the session this morning we were talking, and somehow she remembers that I used to live right down the street from her Grandmother and we used to play together as kids! I have the worst memory, but I do remember how excited I was when she was around to play girl stuff because our neighborhood was full of boys. It's wild what a small city this is.

I love how they shared the trike:

Big bro dropped Woody and did a little dance, so cute!

He has such a sweet shy little smile:

And I LOVE the little guy's big brown eyes:

Now, if this isn't the cutest thing I've ever seen...he rides the trike by sitting on the foot rest and using his feet instead of the pedals.

I hope you have a great vacation! Talk to you when you get back!!

Check out the products blog for jewelry

2007-10-04T23:52:00.001-04:00

Start thinking about Christmas gifts! Grandmas love pictures of their grandchildren, give them something they can show off to their friends. Or start hinting to your husband, I know mine has a hard time with gift ideas...

Click http://jennifermott-products.blogspot.com/2007/10/jewelry.html to see what I have to offer.

Not a good post without a picture, so here is one I took Monday while I was playing with a birthday lens :) You can see how Lucy's lip is all swollen, she looks like a duck poor baby...and you can see the blood on her shirt, that has stopped for now...until she hits it again, she is such a daredevil. She likes to climb up on the couch and jump. at 13 months. we're in trouble.

B&B&B&B

2007-10-02T23:48:00.000-04:00

And for G, and I know C and M are looking too :)

I could have stayed up all night proofing these shots from today...these boys are over the top handsome! Little B was the focus since he just passed his big half year milestone, and we caught some of Bigger B while he went along his busy way.

I had a hard time making myself try black and white on these because little B's eyes are incredibly blue...and this hat goes so well with them. and hello, what a hat!

I love this one in color, but yes mom they are girly colors...so a black and white here. Don't you wish you were still flexible enough to bend like this?

Big brother, don't you love his hair?

And another PERFECT nursery! I need to put together a decorating book with some of the baby rooms I have seen lately :) And what a doll this little guy is here!

OK, I am tearing myself away...I loved meeting your family today, I hope you like your sneak peek!

No. I lied. I posted this and then saw I had this one minimized and I had to edit it to show this too...

Tooth and a sucker...

2007-10-01T13:13:00.000-04:00

Well, I took Miss Lucy to the dentist this morning and all they could tell me is, yeah it looks bad! There's a lot of gum damage. So all we can do now is wait and see... poor baby girl seems to be feeling better unless I pull her shirt over her head and make her gums bleed...I felt so horrible last night!

I was trying to go back through some older pictures last night that I haven't touched... I have something coming up in 2 weeks and will be displaying a ton of my work. This is from back in May and I decided I love it. So Lucy.

And last night I made Aidan go out for a shoot with me...I have nothing of him lately since I'm much more boring than whatever he is looking down at all the time. It was pretty bright out, which is hard to believe with all this rain today, feels like a different world! He was still being a big old goof, but I love it! Definitely click on this one...his expression is priceless!

Long night...

2007-09-29T01:34:00.000-04:00

Well, the plan for tonight was to watch Knocked Up. But here I am. Why, do you ask? At about 8 tonight, Lucy fell and knocked one of her top front teeth up into her gums. You can barely see the tooth anymore and it looks like it twisted. Not good. Both our white shirts were covered in blood.

I talked to the after hours nurse at our pediatrician's office and two dentists...all we can do is wait. It's pretty likely she will lose the tooth or it will move back down but turn yellow because the blood vessels that connect to it are damaged.

After all the trama, I finally got her to bed late and wasn't in the mood for a funny movie. Instead I worked on a really cool new way to get my welcome information out to new clients!

And I wanted to give you a sneak peak of one of the great Christmas card options I am going to offer! Now this picture is really old, and this is actually cropped from a photo of this picture in a frame...but I think the picture fits the sentiment perfectly!

Couple quick things!

2007-09-26T00:31:00.000-04:00

I have a really busy week... working on a ton of stuff, but I wanted to make sure I get these out there before I forget AGAIN!!

1st, check out my display at Emma Louise in Perrysburg. We put it up on Saturday and I keep forgetting to mention it here. When you go into Levis Commons, go to the second left and take that road past the shops and restaurants to the last set of buildings on the left across from the apartments. Make sure you sign your kids up for the contest! Lots of entries so far!

2nd, Chicago sessions are closed. Let me know if you want to be on a waiting list. I will probably come back in the spring...

3rd, start thinking about Christmas cards! I am going to set up some mini sessions with card packages. I will give out more details soon, but I have some gorgeous designs in the works. I want to get all card orders in before December starts...

No pictures that I can share tonight, sorry!! Soon :)

I've been tagged

2007-09-21T00:59:00.000-04:00

I wrote almost all of this last night and had to save as a draft and then forgot!! so here goes a long-winded one!

There's been a game going around the world of photographers and their blogs. I've been tagged by the super talented Amanda, http://amandaprince.wordpress.com/

So I have to give 8 facts about myself...stuff most of you might not know. hmmm.

1 - If you couldn't tell by the time of most of my posts, I am a night owl. I get a second wind at 9 or 10 and make myself go to bed at 1 or 2 even though I'm not tired. 6 AM wake up sucks though!

2 - My degree is in electrical and computer engineering. But most of the time my brain feels like I didn't get through 6th grade...I don't know if the bars on campus or the kids have done more damage to my brain!

3 - After being desperate to leave the boring cold city of Toledo all my young life...I am back here, less than a mile from the 2 houses I lived in from 1st grade on. And I like it here! Except for winter...then I want to be back out west, the rain wasn't so bad.

4 - I rowed in college (you know those 8 person boats?) and then again at clubs in Portland and Toledo. I even rowed at times when I was pregnant, which I am sure was funny to see. I haven't gone out since Aidan was born because I don't get enough time with the kids as it is.

5 - Height is an advantage in rowing. I'm 6'0" tall. Which is why the coach came running down the street after me at freshman orientation! I hated being so tall growing up...I still do a lot of the time.

6 - After years of telling my husband no...yes I did want to name Aidan after the character on Sex and the City. He was cute and the perfect guy...he always did and said the right things. Darn that Carrie for breaking his heart!! (and it's a cute name so there!)

7 - My favorite TV show is Survivor. I even applied a couple times... I always watch it and think about how I would play better and beat them all. Of course lately it's a bunch of young punks they put on, not so much fun to watch anymore...

8 - And...I am horribly bad at keeping up with emails to my friends. I have a ton in my inbox and when I think about replying I stress out about who to write back to first and then what if I don't get to them all?!? LOL...I am sorry! And they know I'm pathetic and still are my friends, so thank you!! :)

I will tag some others, but will have to go see who hasn't played yet!

And I finished proofing one of my sessions late last night. I will email mom this weekend once I have time to upload the pictures and get the slideshow finished. Here are one of each for you M:

It cracked me up when she was doing this: so cute!!

I had happy ones of her before, so I don't feel bad sharing a serious one because she is stunning:

And so I don't get in trouble with my mom, here are mine. 1st, I can't believe how long and skinny Duncan is getting:

Aidan, I got some where he was looking at me and smiling for once, but this one just is so him. If you look close you can see the fuzz on his forehead too, still my baby :)

And Lucy. So strong-willed and independant at just 1 already. So into her yogurt as you can see here: (and mommy brag, she very clearly says yogurt. every.single.time.we.pass.the.fridge!!)

Excited to announce...

2007-09-19T01:18:00.000-04:00

OK, bed time...if you can't read this, check out my website!

Entry forms will also be at Emma Louise by the end of the week...

Chicago trip

2007-09-14T12:55:00.000-04:00

I promised details of my Chicago trip...I've been so busy, so I apologize for the delay.

The dates are October 12-13. I will set up 1 hour sessions on Friday afternoon and all day Saturday (with breaks of course)

We will pick 2 or 3 locations, a park with the fall colors, the beach, and somewhere in the city. I'm sure Robert can find a place for me, think cool brick alleys, old wrought iron, stairways, cute shops, even graffiti - lots of variety! If there is bad weather, his front room with the big windows and hardwood is perfect. (Or umbrella and puddle-splashing shots if you're brave!)

All ordering will be online, I have a shopping cart similar to Amazon's on my website. I will then ship directly to you. Early October will leave plenty of time to order Christmas cards if you would like. I will have samples up on my website before October, I have around 10 designs to choose from in all kinds of styles.

I will set up more formal times and details once I know how much interest there is. When you email me, could you please let me know if you would like to schedule Friday afternoon/evening or Saturday and if you would prefer park, beach, or city.

Edited to add one more thing... I got asked about this, I will not be charging for the extra distance with my session fee.

Gorgeous little girls...

2007-09-14T01:03:00.000-04:00

Totally wore me out! You would think I'd be prepared having 2 kids the same age...they were both so excited to explore, I just tried to keep up!

They were so adorable and so sweet, I had a great time!

I love the just learning to walk poses :)

She looks like a model here, I couldn't decide between black and white or color, they were both gorgeous!

A smile to start out before the serious running started:

She wasn't happy...

But it didn't last 30 seconds:

She coordinated her flower grabbing with her tutu...at least she didn't eat this one :) I love this age, it's so much fun!

Proofing...

2007-09-10T00:07:00.001-04:00

I've been busy proofing and I just have to share this one...look at those eyes! My goodness, you can see her whole front yard in them.

And I tried this one in black and white...not sure why I didn't the first pass, but I love it this way:

Crack-up

2007-09-05T23:35:00.000-04:00

OK mom, you wanted real smiles...here's what you get! I just love it, she is such a good, fun girl :) I couldn't resist this one tonight, put a smile on my face after a long day!

I changed my blog header too. I was trying to think of a good catch-phrase, and it occured to me that I am always working and posting when the rest of the normal people I know are sleeping... so it just fit, and looking for a good sleeping picture, I couldn't resist this recent newborn!

I am going to post some details of how my Chicago sessions are going to work tomorrow... I'm really excited, I just love Chicago, and especially all the amazing scenery to shoot around. You can go to the beach, a park, cool alleys, neat old architecture, wrought iron fences, cute storefronts...all within a few blocks!

I'm going to bed before 1 for once, see you tomorrow!

Sweet, sweet baby...

2007-09-04T16:00:00.000-04:00

Doesn't she look like she belongs in a magazine?

I just loved this one from yesterday, had to get it up for a sneak peek :) I'll have more of her and her big sis later...

A had his first day of preschool today so we took the day off. After a brief screaming tantrum before breakfast, the rest of the day went amazingly well!

I started a new blog for products, to give you an idea what my storyboards, canvases, albums, etc look like. And I will put some Christmas card examples up there soon too. Not yet though, I can't think about cold and snow just yet!