kelli jane photography. the blog. kelli seeley

The new kelli jane photography blog...

2009-12-04T13:04:00.000-08:00

The new blog is finally finished so I will no longer be posting here!! Wondering why it tool a bit longer than expected?? Well, head on over to find out the good new :)

Here is the new URL: http://kellijanesblog.com/ or simply click HERE

Also, be sure to check out the little giveaway I'm doing!!

We're back!

2009-09-22T23:40:00.000-07:00

we made it back to Sacramento after spending a beautiful weekend in Paso Robles for my sister's wedding! I can't wait to share all the images with you! For now, here is my very beautiful sister on her wedding day!

Also, updating my blog this week is going to be minimal because I'm going to be devoting a lot of my time working on the final touches of my new one!! Starting tonight!! Let the midnight oil start burning =)

sisters

2009-09-13T23:15:00.000-07:00

My sister is getting married in just 6 days and my heart feels all giddy inside for her! Is there anything better than being surrounded by friends and family....making fun memories....laughing.......dancing....celebrating? I don't think so.

On a different note, this was the second year I got to go to Lake Tahoe and photograph a few of my favorite families. These girls are so cute together and so much fun to photograph....and I can only imagine all the fun memories they will share and make in the years to come!

Thank the Heavens for sisters and Happy Monday!

Friday Photo Tip: Doorways

2009-09-11T21:46:00.000-07:00

Today's Friday Photo Tip is about finding good light around your home. There are a lot of good places to look but today I wanted to let you know about doorways. Did you know that your doorway is a great place to find pretty, soft, flattering light? Well now you know that it is :)

So open your front door, have your subject/kids face or sit toward the light (faces facing outside), turn OFF your flash, and snap away. And here is a little demonstration so you can see what I'm talking about.

And the picture (which to be honest, I took it about 1 minute before we made this video because I didn't think I could get a good picture of Riley in the 10 seconds I was shooting her in the video).

This file is straight out of the camera (no photoshop) except for I gave it a square crop.

Happy Friday! Happy shooting!!

The end of Summer

2009-09-09T22:46:00.000-07:00

Favorite Summer Memories:

spending quality time with Ryan shooting weddings.

warm nights

taking my puppy on walks

BBQ's at our friends houses

going to all of Riley's friends birthday parties

watching her run through the sprinklers

staying up late and watching movies

meeting new Sacramento friends

working in my (newly designed) studio

good conversations with friends

eating frozen yogurt

talking with my neighbors while our kids have fun running outside getting nice and dirty

daily walks to Compton's Market

celebrating 4 years or marriage

...my list could go on and on. As I say goodbye Summer, I welcome Fall with open arms. The fall is beautiful here in Sacramento and I can't wait for the gorgeous auburn tree's and cooler weather...not too mention, Fall fashion is the best (scarves...boots...warm latte's...yum). The start of a new season is like a mini new beginning....and I like that feeling.

Farewell Summertime!!

weekly polaroid share

2009-09-08T21:03:00.000-07:00

From Riley's birthday party:

I was in Tahoe a few weeks ago for a family shoot and took these while I was there:

and my little Remi:

Happy Tuesday!!

This video just made my day!

2009-09-06T10:10:00.000-07:00

Good morning! I saw this on youtube this morning and thought you might like it. It's a baby french bulldog that can't get up. Enjoy his overwhelming cuteness!

Friday Photo Tip

2009-09-04T18:26:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love babies....I mean really, who can resist their chunky goodness and those big toothless smiles. Yes, sometime they don't sleep when we want them to and yes, their high pitched cries can sometimes make us want to cry ourselves.....but the love and joy they bring to our lives far outweighs the temporary stress that comes with raising a baby. I promise.

Okay. So.

Here is my photography tip for Friday {which btw, going to try and do this every Friday}. When I photograph older babies {to be honest, this seems to work with my 3 year old too}, one way I get them to look at me and smile is to play peek-a-boo behind the camera. Basically, I hide my face behind the camera and then pop it out to the side, and say "peek-a-boo"....and yes, I'm pressing the shutter the whole time, even while not looking in the camera. So far, this seems to work every time. So go photograph one of your favorite little people and see how it goes.

Happy Friday!

50%

2009-09-02T19:26:00.000-07:00

If we're friends on facebook or twitter, then you may already know that this week started out a little (okay, a lot) stressful.

So here's the story. Our puppy, Remi, tested positive for Parvo. I didn't know much about Parvo except that it usually kills....my eyes filled with tears when the Vet told me. She continued to explain that he would have a 50% chance of surviving this....my eyes filled with more tears and all I could think was, "how did this happen....he can't die...he's only 6 months old!!! The Vet told us his best chance of making it through this would be to have him check into the hospital where he could receive IV fluids and nutrients. So this is what we did. And then we waited....and waited...and waited until finally 7pm came and we could pick him up. The report was good...but he still wasn't out of the woods. We got to bring him home that evening knowing that the next morning, we would have to bring him back for another day of treatment.

He woke up at our house in good spirits (which was refreshing because all night, it seemed as if he might just stop breathing right there on our floor). So we got ready to bring him back to the hospital for day 2 of treatment. The real test for day was to see if he could keep his food down without vomiting. So I left the hospital at 8am praying that he would survive this. I was nervous all day. Finally, around 5 o' clock, I called for an update. He was BETTER!! He kept his food down all day...and the vet told me he had so much energy he tried to escape!! Hallelujah!! I'm so thankful for all of my twitter and facebooks friends for keeping Remi in their thoughts and prayers...I'm confident they helped him get through this.

So you may be thinking, isn't there a vaccine for Parvo? And the answer is Yes. Remi had received 3 vaccines already for Parvo but he still had one more to go...and my understanding is that they aren't 99.9% protected until they have all of them.

Knowing that he didn't have all his shots yet, I didn't take him around other dogs unless I knew the owners and knew that their dogs had received all of their shots. I did however take Remi out on walks around our neighborhood. Knowing what I know now about Parvo, I wish I wouldn't have ever taken him out of the house until he had all of his shots. But not taking your dog out of the house still doesn't mean they are safe from getting it. As I've learned in the past week, Parvo can live in your own backyard....for up to 10 years!! Since we are renters and have only lived in our house for a year, it's quite possible that he could have got Parvo from digging in the dirt in our backyard.

There's one other place he could have gotten it: The Del Paso Vet Clinic. When I went there for Remi's shots (just 5 days before he came down with Parvo...and also, this was my first time going to this Vet), I had a bad feeling. I noticed that a lady came in the waiting room to clean after we had been sitting there for a good 10 minutes. I also saw several sick looking dogs leave the clinic while we were there too. So although I can't be sure, I have a gut feeling that he may have picked it up while we were there to GET his Parvo shot.

Needless to say, I did not take him back there. Now I know that there are also a lot of negative things that have been said about Banfi eld, but they were the ones that treated Remi through all of this and our experience with them was nothing short of wonderful. I have them to thank for saving our dear puppy.

It was hard preparing ourselves for the fact that our 6 month old puppy might die....especially since Riley would repeatedly say things like, "Mommy, Remi is my best friend...I miss him"....and... "Mommy, Remi is my brother right?" Thankfully, this story ends well, because right now he is happily wagging his tail running around our house looking for things to get into (hopefully not my shoes).

We have to keep Remi quarantined for the next week while it passes through his system...but only so other dogs can't get Parvo. We also have to mix 2 parts water with 1 part bleach and clean our entire backyard with it...again, this is so we can prevent any other dogs from ever getting it.

"What I really wanted to say was how this animal had touched our souls and taught us some of the most important lessons of our lives. A person can learn a lot from a dog, even a loopy one like ours....Marley taught me about living each day with unbridled exuberance and joy, about seizing the moment and following your heart. He taught me to appreciate the simple things- a walk in the woods, a fresh snowfall, a nap in a shaft of winter sunlight. And as he grew old and achy, he taught me about optimism in the face of adversity. Mostly, he taught me about friendship and selflessness and, above all else, unwavering loyalty'"

-from Marley and Me

sx70 polaroids

2009-08-24T18:19:00.000-07:00

We went to the California State Fair this weekend.

Riley rode a pony and then cried for an hour about how she wanted "daddy to buy her a pony!" She had a hard time understanding that a pony could not be her best friend and sleep with her in her room every night. I feel for her....I wanted a pony when I was little too.

Answers

2009-08-17T22:10:00.000-07:00

The other day I was lying on my couch staring aimlessly up at the ceiling, pondering different marketing strategies for my business when Riley tapped me on the shoulder and said, "mommy, what are you looking for?" to which I replied, "answers" and in her charismatic little voice she skipped away shouting, "I'll go find them for you mommy, okay?"

Just like that, she was confident she could find the answers.

And you know what....she usually does!

3 years ago today I gave birth to my beautiful little girl....and I would go through all 24 hours of natural labor time and time again just to have her as my daughter. Every afternoon when she wakes up from her nap and says, "mommy, I had a wonderful nap today" I feel like my heart might just break because I can't possibly handle her cuteness and all the love she so freely gives.

Her spirit is so pure, not yet tainted by our world....and even though she is only turning 3, I still find myself praying each night that I might be wise enough to help her become the type of girl....woman....who will have enough strength and courage to overcome adversity with grace, without loosing compassion for others. As much as I wish I could protect her from heartache and loss, the rational part of me knows that I won't always be able to....and I hope that she will have the understanding to learn and grow from difficult situations.

But in the meantime, I will cherish each day I have with her and do everything possible to make sure she experiences all the joys and laughter of being 3 years old....which is sure to include (but not limited to) riding her tricycle...running across her slip-n-slide with her best friends....taking ballet lessons....blowing bubbles...and most importantly, playing dress up and living in the world of make-believe (have I ever mentioned that every day for the past 3 months she dresses up like a princess?)

My dear Riley,

You've given me more answers in the last 3 years simply by being you....more so than anything I could ever go searching for. You show me what it means to be a family, and you show me what it means to unconditionally love.

Happy Birthday my sweet girl!

from Saturday night's party:

making cupcakes today for her actual birthday:

...and a little trip down memory lane...1 week old:

Weekend festivities | Sacramento Newborn photographer

2009-08-14T16:23:00.000-07:00

Hi friends! What are you up to this weekend?

Tomorrow we're having an "unofficial" birthday party for Riley (OMG, she's turning 3 on Monday!!) because her "real" party with her friends is going to be on a weekday. And since Ryan and I love any excuse to bring our friends together for a good ol' fashion BBQ, tomorrow is really just a party with our friends...but there will be cupcakes...and we'll sing Happy Birthday...so therefore I'm calling it her "unofficial" birthday.

I hope that you make the most of your weekend.

"When people say: she's got everything, I've only one answer: I haven't had tomorrow"

--Elizabeth Taylor

updates!

2009-08-13T14:56:00.000-07:00

Have I been a bad blogger lately or what? So I'm just going to get to the point and share a few things with you

1.) So you know how I've been telling you forever that I'm getting a new blog? Well--it really is close now...I promise!! I've seen it...and as I write this, it's being "built." The building of the blog isn't what has taken so long, it's the design. I've spent the last few months doing a little "soul searching" in terms of the brand I want to create. I've been eating, breathing, and thinking about branding the past few months and it's incredibly cathartic to see all of my ideas being built into something concrete. Needless to say, when everything launches...I want to celebrate? How should I celebrate?

2.) Also in the works is a new website--stay tuned!!

3.) Facebook! Goodness, facebook is addicting! So to be quite honest, this feels a little awkward to announce...but I've created a Fan Page for Kelli Jane Photography. I guess it's the thing to do these days if you're a business owner. I've just started it so please be patient with me as I figure out ways to make it fun.

If you want to make my day a little brighter, click HERE to become a fan (and if you click on the link, you'll also see a little sneak peek of my new logo that will make it's "official" debut when my new blog does)

4.) And here's a little reminder that if you're interested in booking a portrait session for the fall, contact me NOW. I've already begun booking sessions for September and October and would love the opportunity to work with you! kelli@kellijanephoto.com

5) I'll be in the San Luis Obispo area the week of September 16th-20th....so if you're interested in booking a session, shoot me an email! I'm also working on booking a weekend in SLO for October as well, but the dates haven't been determined.

And how about a picture? Here is little R when she was just a wee little baby:

and now, she's matured to the ripe old age of 1:

Rem-doggy dog

2009-08-03T19:37:00.000-07:00

Remi is my first dog...well technically, I had a puppy when I was 3 but we had to give him away because I had allergies.

I never thought I would worry about Remi like I do about Riley, but good lordy, this pup has stolen my heart! Although, I sort of wish he would stop growing so fast...can you believe he's just 6 months old in these pictures!

Pictures that make you feel something

2009-08-02T00:53:00.000-07:00

When I look at this picture of us together, I can feel her soft little cheek up against mine. I will always feel that when I look at this picture. I know it.

This is what a good picture does, it makes you feel something:

A loved ones presence even when they're not there.

The sound of their voice....or the sweetness of a giggle.

Pictures can motivate, inspire, and cause change. They can be visual reminders of hope and love....and sometimes that's all you need to make your day a little brighter.

The Next Survivor: Dads

2009-07-29T01:08:00.000-07:00

So my friend Kathryn sent this out in an email last week.....

THE NEXTSURVIVOR SERIES : DADS

Six married men will be dropped on an island with one car and
3 kids each for six weeks.

Each kid will play
two sports
and either take music
or dance classes.

There is no fast food.

Each man must
take care of his 3 kids;
keep his assigned house clean ,
correct all homework,
and complete science projects ,
cook, do laundry,
and pay a list of 'pretend' bills
with not enough money.

In addition, each man
will have to budget in money
for groceries each week.

Each man
must remember the birthdays
of all their friends and relatives ,
and send cards out
on time--no emailing.

Each man must also
take each child to a doctor's appointment,
a dentist appointment
and a haircut appointment .

He must make
one unscheduled and inconvenient
visit per child
to the Urgent Care.

He must also
make cookies or cupcakes
for a social function.

Each man will be responsible for
decorating his own assigned house,
planting flowers outside
and keeping it presentable
at all times.

The men will only
have access to television
when the kids are asleep
and all chores are done.

The men must
shave their legs ,
wear makeup daily,
adorn himself with jewelry,
wear uncomfortable yet stylish shoes ,
keep fingernails polished
and eyebrows groomed ..

During one of the six weeks,
the men will have to endure severeabdominal cramps, back aches,
and have extreme, unexplained mood swings but never once complain or
slow down from other duties.

They must attend
weekly school meetings,
church, and find time
at least once to spend the afternoon
at the park or a similar setting.

They will need to
read a book to the kids
each night and in the morning,
feed them, dress them,
brush their teethand
comb their hair by 7:00 am.

A test will be given at the end of the six weeks, and each father will be required to know all of the following information:
each child's birthday,
height, weight,
shoe size, clothes size
and doctor's name.
Also the child's weight at birth,
length, time of birth,
and length of labor,
each child's favorite color,
middle name,
favorite snack,
favorite song,
favorite drink,
favorite toy,
biggest fear and
what they want to be when they grow up.

The kids vote them off the island
based on performance.
The last man wins only if....
he still has enough energy
to be intimate with his spouse
at a moment's notice.

If the last man does win,
he can play the game over and over
and over again for the next 18-25 years
eventually earning the right
To be called Mother!

After you get done laughing,
send this to as many females as you
think will get a kick out of it and
as many men as you think can
handle it..
Just don't send it back to me.... I'm going to bed.

***********

You know I love you Dads--but this had me laughing out loud! *Sigh* And to be quite honest, I think Ryan may even do a few of these things better than me (but only a few).

And here is a little sneak peek from a recent newborn session:

Gratitude

2009-07-27T23:08:00.000-07:00

I suppose I tend to do most of my thinking at night, you know, when the 2 year old is asleep and it's finally calm and quiet in the house.

So tonight, I've been thinking about gratitude.

I'd like to think that for the most part, I don't take my family, friends or health for granted. But as I sat at my desk this evening, staring at my daunting gmail account, it occurred to me...there are a whole-lot-of people that I sincerely appreciate...and if they don't know it already, they hopefully will now.

I want to let all those who have supported me and my business...not only financially, but those who have offered advise, and lent a helping hand, thank you. To everyone who has hired me to photograph all the wonderful moments in the lives of their children and families, thank you. To all of those who have trusted Ryan and I to be there to capture the precious memories of your wedding day, thank you. It is you that helps make my dreams come true and it is your support that helps me to stay "at home" with my daughter. Thank you!

Since I've been updating my website right now, I've been pouring through images I took a couple years ago...so I put together this little wedding inspiration board (ps--can you tell which picture is the polaroid?)

"Brainstorming"

2009-07-26T15:40:00.000-07:00

So Ryan tells me he needs to go do some work.....and when I saw what he was really doing, I got my video camera out...

TGIF: with a few album spreads. Tiburon Weddings

2009-07-24T18:00:00.000-07:00

I like my album designs to be 2 things: 1) clean and 2) timeless.

When I design albums, I don't incorporate a lot of "bells and whistles" into the design, I simply like it to "read" smoothly and tell the story without a lot of distractions. Wedding albums are beautiful heirlooms that will hopefully be passed down for many generations to come, and when those future generations flip through the pages, my hope is that it will still be relevant and the memories created will still speak to the heart.

Here are a few spreads from a recent wedding album I designed...

And to see the entire album layout, click HERE

It's been a while...

2009-07-23T17:17:00.000-07:00

since I posted a few polaroids!! I miss my little sx-70....no no, nothing has happened to her, I just haven't shot with it recently. I think it's important to make the things you love to do a priority...and one of those things for me is shooting with my vintage sx-70 polaroid camera. Some of my family members think it's a bit strange that I love polaroids so much (hi Dad), because digital camera's are "so much better" but I don't know about that, I think I'll always have a big big place in my heart for all film....especially polaroids.

The Big Day

2009-07-16T18:29:00.000-07:00

Planning for the Strawberry Shortcake 3rd birthday party has officially begun....

That Happy Feeling

2009-07-15T16:41:00.000-07:00

You know when you're doing laundry and you discover that $20 bill you forgot all about.....and it gives you that happy feeling inside? Well, finding this picture was like that for me. I forgot I had even taken it....and as I was looking through some old files, I saw it....and it gives me that happy feeling.

wedding sneak peaks

2009-07-14T14:21:00.000-07:00

Did you have a good weekend? We did.....we spent it in beautiful San Luis Obispo. After a little hotel confusion on Friday night due to the fault of the hotel, we were offered an upgraded Suite...and let me tell you, this suite was awesome! It was bigger than our first apartment, but the funny thing was it looked like it was straight out of a 1982 Macy's catalogue (and I secretly kinda liked it...and I think Ryan did too). We had the most beautiful views of the creek that runs through SLO and it was both peaceful and nostalgic to listen to the sound of the running water and the cricketing frogs as we slept....it reminded me of when we use to live on Peach St.

view from the balcony:

We were in San Luis to shoot Rachel and Jeff's wedding...here is a little sneak peek:

and coming up soon is Rebecca and George's wedding....here is a litle sneak peak from their wedding:

I LOVED her sweet heart cut dress....

My Little Riley Jane

2009-07-09T17:28:00.000-07:00

As she approaches turning 3, her energy level seems to be multiplying by 333 to the 10th power....but so too does her cuteness. Instead of a "princess" party, she's decided to have a Strawberry Shortcake party...so we're having fun preparing for that spectacular event :)

I'll be out of town this weekend to shoot a wedding, so I'll return all emails and phone calls when I get back on Monday. Have a great weekend dear friends!

L A M A R T I N É

2009-07-08T23:56:00.000-07:00

Kimberly let me know today that her new studio/shop is now open....and I just love it!! She is such a talented floral designer and I love her eye for vintage treasures. You may remember that the whole reason I found my studio space is because of her :) If you're getting married and looking for a florist, be sure to check her out.

Here are 2 pictures that I took from her blog...but be sure to stop by and see the rest for yourself: http://lamartinefloral.blogspot.com/

Marie and January | Sacramento Wedding Photographer

2009-07-06T00:50:00.000-07:00

"Sometimes I still can't believe that I get to spend the rest of my life with him. And that after all these years, I still get those butterflies." -Marie

If you've been following my blog, you may remember just how much we adore Marie & January. From the very first emails Marie and I exchanged, I knew we were going to get along wonderfully! When we first met and started talking about wedding photography, I loved that she valued the relationship that a couple builds with their wedding photographers...because Ryan and I could not agree more that a good relationship allows for everyone to feel comfortable and at-ease....which yields great captures and beautiful photographs :)

Seriously, we just love these two! They are such a joy to be around and witnessing their love serves as a blessing to us all.

Their ceremony and reception took place at the lovely, Sierra Sun Cloud Inn Bed & Breakfast. This quaint little bed and breakfast has little touches of vintage charm, and the views are simply breath-taking....Marie and Jan's wedding was a perfect summer night.

getting ready.....

Ryan's shot:

love January's smile upon seeing how beautiful Marie is...

Ryan's shot:

love this real moment that was captured just as Marie glanced my way

Marie hired a designer from Etsy to make the bridesmaid dresses....

loved the little vintage bottles she used for her center pieces....

Marie and Jan's wedding was filled with beautiful details that made their day truly unique and memorable....and I love that she went to Etsy for not only the bridesmaids dresses but for the gifts she gave her bridesmaids and to find a calligrapher for her invitations and labels. Documenting this beautiful day and being part of the celebration was truly an honor.

To see more highlights from the day, be sure to check out the slideshow by clicking here.

Happy Birthday America

2009-07-04T23:54:00.000-07:00

Hope you had as much fun as we did celebrating the birthday of our Great Country....one things for sure, the Seeley household is exhausted right now from a full day of excitement!! Our annual block party (you can see a few pictures from las year's party by clicking here) was the perfect summer celebration with neighbors and friends....we are blessed!

Flower Girls

2009-06-28T13:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Riley made her debut as a flower girl...and here's how we got ready for this big day in her little 2 year old life:

1) Preparation

So I figured, why not show Riley some youtube video's of flower girls so she gets the idea right? Well, the only thing is that 90% of the video's are of what flower girl are NOT suppose to do (as seen in ehxibit a). I know I know, that is what makes flower girls so cute...but I felt a responsibility to at least teach her the right way to do things. I ended up cutting most of the video's off halfway, for fear that she would copy the behavior on the actual wedding day...lol

exhibit a

2.) Safety

Yes, I would highly recommend the day of the wedding, keeping an extra close eye of your little one....wait, who am I kidding....kids are bound to get hurt right? Why oh why though, do kids always seem to get hurt at the worst times!! As you see in exibit b, the morning of the wedding Riley took a huge face plant into the cement of our backyard. This picture doesn't really show just how swollen her bruised lip and cheek was....but you get the point.

exhibit b

3.) Lots of Love

We made sure she gave the bride to be lots of love...and lots of kisses too...

4) Bribery

I admit, a pack of skittles was involved in making sure she made it down the isle.....and it worked like a charm as seen in exhibit c. Her expression while walking down the isle was rather serious, although I did find it kinda cute that she kept her intent focus on me the entire walk

exhibit c

In all honesty, I had no idea what she was going to do when it was her turn to walk down the isle....but as I suspected (because I'm her mom), she was nothing short of fabulous!! Watching her throw petals down the short Chapel isle, I was a little surprised by how mature she seemed. She's not a baby anymore. She's a thoughtful, intelligent, beautiful little girl that Ryan and I are so blessed to call ours.

Sacramento Wedding photographer

2009-06-24T16:41:00.000-07:00

Dear Summer--Please slow down!!

Hhmm, I suppose the fact that we've been shooting weddings every weekend has a little something to do with the fact that the summer is moving as fast as Edward Cullan can run (okay okay, I'm sorry for the bad Twilight joke...but hey, it was the first thing I thought of when thinking of "fast things" ).

But here's the truth--this has been one of the best summers yet! I know Ryan and I were meant to shoot weddings together...because nothing else could be this fun and bring such smiles to our faces. The other day I asked Ryan if he was having fun shooting weddings (confession: I already knew the answer but wanted to hear him say it again) and his response was, "it's better than watching sci-fi"...and if you know my husband, his idea of a perfect day would involve many hours of sci-fi watching (read: Arnold Schwarzenegger movies).

and here's a few pictures of my boys...

(okay--well minus Riley's feet)

value

2009-06-18T00:56:00.000-07:00

Some of the most important gifts anyone can give a girl is a belief in her own power as an individual, her value without reference to gender, her respect as a person with potential.

-- Emilie Buchwal

Monday

2009-06-15T11:54:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday....for the most part, I might be apart of the slim population that actually enjoys Monday's.....I think its the feeling of a fresh start to the week that I like. My littlest sister is here visiting and as I type this we're watching season 2 of The Office......all while Riley is running around in a princess dress pretending to be Sleeping Beauty. Yes, Monday's are good.

And a little sneak peek from a recent session....more coming soon....

San Luis Obispo wedding photographer: Cassie plus Chris

2009-06-14T16:38:00.000-07:00

Cassie and Chris' beautiful wedding took place a few weekends ago...and Ryan and I had the best time witnessing and capturing the wonderful day as it unfolded. Cassie and Chris are simply perfect for one another and it was an honor to capture this day for them. There's nothing better than photographing people and couples when they are relaxed, and simply having a good time....and that's what their wedding was filled with.....good times!

a few getting ready details...this ring is what Chris surprised Cassie with as she was getting ready

she used her grandma's gorgeous broach on her bouquet

her dad's eyes swelled with tears upon first seeing his daughter

Ryan's shot:

Just Married!!

I rode with the bridal party in the limo on the way to the reception....boy oh boy, was that one fun limo ride =)

The reception room was breathtaking--I loved the low romantic light!

Here is a picture of the sign-in album I designed for them

so it wasn't the bride that did this....but one of the groomsman...it was pretty funny

Last shot of the night!

He turned 30

2009-06-11T22:37:00.000-07:00

Today Ryan, my dear husband, turned 30. We celebrated with friends, had a BBQ and then we watched (and are still watching) movies. I love you Ryan and I pray that God will bless us with 30 x 30 more years here on earth together!

I took these tonight in our backyard....my loves....

And as I write this post, I can't help but think of the amazingly talented, fellow photographer Amy Wenzel and her husband David who just found out that he has a brain tumor. Please pray for them as they walk this journey and drop by their blogs to find out more!

Amy's blog: http://blog.amywenzel.com/

David's blog: http://www.jumpdavidjump.typepad.com/

chocolate or flowers?

2009-06-08T19:47:00.000-07:00

Hope you've been having a nice Monday =) I've been recuperating from the amazing wedding we shot this past Saturday....and oohhh, I can't wait to share the last 2 weddings Ryan and I shot!

So a couple of weeks ago, my friend Rachel posed the question on twitter: chocolate or flowers.... which would you rather have your boyfriend/spouse bring you? FLOWERS is what I instantly thought of! Why? Don't get me wrong, I love me some good chocolate...but I guess flowers just seem more meaningful to me and they aren't something I get everyday (yep--because I think I eat chocolate just about everyday)

So here is a shot of some flowers that are in my house right now....my favorite...peonies! Nope, Ryan didn't get them for me (he's still a good husband though), I got them at Trader Joe's yesterday because it's not often that you can buy them at a grocery store.

Marta + Joel: Married!

2009-06-05T00:50:00.000-07:00

Marta and Joel's wedding was sweet, elegant, intimate and full of love! Ryan and I had the honor of capturing their special day in Tiburon (right across the bay from the city of San Francisco) back in April. They decided to only have their close family in attendance and it was a beautiful day of celebrating their union. The weather was perfect and everyone's joyous energy made our job of capturing this day a true blessing.

a few portraits before the ceremony...

The views from their beautiful ceremony site, The China Cabin.

flowers: http://www.susansflowers.com/

Catering: Jed Cote

A few more highlights from their wedding can be seen by clicking HERE.

sneak peek

2009-06-04T21:23:00.000-07:00

Just a teaser from the wedding we shot this past weekend on the central coast....I got to ride with the bridal party...in the limo...it was fun!

Love

2009-06-02T23:10:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday (well, technically it's almost Tuesday....so Happy Tuesday too)

10 while 26

2009-05-27T10:32:00.000-07:00

Birthday's are a good time for recaps....for acknowledging how you've grown over that past year and documenting the lessons you've learned. While I could probably come up with at least 100 lessons, here is a list of 10 things that I've learned in the past year.

10 lessons I learned while being 26

1) I've learned to let go of being perfect and to ask for help. I can't do it all. Thinking I can be the best wife, mom, photographer, business owner, cook, maid, friend, Christian all at the same time only leads to disappointment. If I fail at one role one day, I try harder the next. I've become more realistic in my thinking of what I am capable of.

2) I've learned the value of social media (i.e facebook, twitter, flickr) and not just as a means to help market my business, but as a way to really connect with and form loving and supportive relationships. Because of social media, I have made some awesome friendships both on and offline and for that, I am grateful!

3) I've leaned that the reason my business is successful, is because I have a supportive husband, family and friends.

4) I've learned a lot more about politics. For the first time, I watched every single presidential debate and asked questions when I didn't understand. I heard from both conservative and liberal points of views and was committed to understanding the differences in belief systems. I also learned that sometimes peoples emotions get in the way of their ability to reason.

5) I've learned that you don't have to have the best and newest photography equipment to make images that are spectacular. I've met amazingly talented photographers who shoot with all types of cameras...both old and new, different brands, some still shoot film, and all have different points of view about how to make the best images possible. It's the PHOTOGRAPHER that makes a beautiful image, not the equipment. Sure equipment can make a difference, but it's not the deciding factor as to what constitutes a great image.

6) I've learned that it's my responsibility, as the communicator, to make sure the person I'm communicating with, gets the right message.

7) I've learned that having a puppy is a lot like having another toddler.

8) I've learned that marriage is hard work (although, don't be surprised if this lesson is on the list every year). Marriage requires time, energy, effort, and unconditional love to solve problems. Many times I would assume I understood what Ryan was trying to communicate to me, but each time I was shown just how egocentric my thinking was. I've learned to assume nothing, and hear him out.

9) I've learned that what makes where you live great, is not how pretty it is, but the community around you. We love where we live because of our friends, and our awesome neighborhoods...everything we need is just a walk or bike ride away! Being in a loving community, spending time with friends and family, and learning from others is what makes where we live so great!

10) I've learned that although many of my dreams have come true, there are still so many more yet to be accomplished. I visualize my aspirations coming true and it motivates me to work hard and make them happen.

{ here are a few bonus things I've learned}

a) the fabulosity of etsy.com

b) you can get some awesome vintage/antique finds if you are adament about searching craigslist

c) why most of the female population loves Twilight...and as of this past month, I now join them (Edward--duh)

d) Target is dangerous if you don't go in there with a list of the exact things you need...I also recommend bringing someone with you who will help you stick to your list

e) backup all your pictures to hardrives/dvds/online backup sites and have them printed :)

And speaking of birthdays, in just a few months, this little one will be turning 3! The planning of a "princess party" is in full effect!

It's his fault!

2009-05-25T22:02:00.000-07:00

Okay, well not entirely...but he is a large reason why my little world has been turned upside down these past few weeks...and my poor poor blog has been neglected!

Meet Remi, short for Remington Glen Seeley the 1st, our new chocolate lab puppy. I had been wanting a dog for quite some time and when an opportunity arose for Remi to join our family, we took it! Now, here me out--this is my FIRST puppy...and while I am absolutely in love with him, making sure he is trained properly is stressful! Figuring out our life with a puppy has taken me a few weeks, but now that we've established a routine, life can resume back to it's normally scheduled program. However, I must say. Remi has been WONDERFUL and the perfect fit for our family. If there's anything I've learned about labs, it's that they are the most lovable, sweetest and caring pups anyone could ask for and we are so happy Remi has joined our family :)

Along with Remi, here are a few other new happenings that you will be hearing more about it the future...

1) The studio is being completely re-done

2) I have an assistant!

3) Yes--we're still working on the new blog. What can I say, it's taking a lot longer than planned...but hopefully, it will be that much better :)

4) I'm going to be speaking at an upcoming workshop on social media

5) We're making a few administrative changes (going paperless!)

6) Lots of fun spring sessions to share

Things have definitely been busy around here! And guess what, tomorrow is my birthday! Yes, today was my last day as a 26 year old....I'll be posting more of my birthday thoughts tomorrow. Speaking of posting--look for a post each day this week :)

And last but not least, Happy Memorial Day!! God Bless our Vets and all of those who have lost their lives fighting for our country...and bless those who continue to fight, support and work for keeping this country wonderful and free!

Susan G. Komen Race for a Cure, Sacramento

2009-05-13T12:30:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday was the Susan G Komen Race for a Cure which I had the honor of photographing everyone as they passed the finish line. The women you see in the pink shirts are the survivors--the hero's!

What Cancer Cannot Do

Cancer is Limited,

It Cannot cripple love

It Cannot shatter hope

It Cannot corrode faith

It Cannot destroy peace

It Cannot kill friendship

It Cannot suppress memories

It Cannot silence courage

It Cannot invade the soul

It Cannot steal eternal life

It Cannot conquer the spirit

Author Unknown

Right before everyone started crossing the finish line

when the survivors crossed the finish line, there was a cheerleading team from one of the local high schools giving them medals.

3 years cancer free

...and there are still so many more pictures I wish I could share right now! I am inspired.

Seeing Double?

2009-05-09T01:19:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog,

I'm sorry I've been ignoring you lately...but please know, I have been thinking about you. There are many stories I want to tell and pictures I want to share. I want to make it up to you tonight by sharing these extra special pictures! Why are they extra special you ask? Well...as you can see, there is not only one sweet little baby but two...and chances are, you won't be able to tell them apart! Yep, that's right they are twins who happen to have some of the most beautiful features I have ever seen! I'm even going to share the slideshow from their session because their cuteness cannot be contained in just 3 pictures!! Enjoy, and please know I will try very hard not to ignore you this coming week!

Thanks, Kelli

and here is the link to their slideshow: http://kellijanesblog.com/darkroom/share/?n=magandlana or click HERE.

The Best Day

2009-05-04T03:36:00.000-07:00

When I first heard this song a few months ago, I knew she had written it about her mom--and I loved her even more for it! Now she has recently released a video for Mother's Day and...well, it's about the sweetest music video I've ever seen. I think at about the 3:40 mark is where the tears started rolling down my cheeks. They were happy tears.

Here is Miss Taylor Swift:

Addictions and Cocoons

2009-04-22T21:37:00.000-07:00

Hi, I'm Kelli, and I'm an Etsy addict. Have you heard of Etsy? I usually assume that most people have, but indeed, it has been brought to my attention that there are still those missing out on the goodness.

Do you love to create, knit, sew, bead (is that even a verb?)--if you do, then you'll love this site. Etsy is basically an online market place for artists & crafters to sell their work. It's all about supporting handmade products and independent shops (oh, and brides--there is tons of stuff for weddings too)!

Take this as your *warning* though --once you discover Etsy--be prepared because most likely, you will be spending a lot of time on this site, just like I did last year when discovering it!

I've bought quite a few wonderful things from different sellers--and I promise I will be sharing these fabulous finds and artists over the next few months!!

First up, is the wonderfully talented Jennifer from Moonlight Creations. Her designs make the PERFECT gifts for babies...especially newborns. When I first saw this beautiful orange cocoon she created, I knew it was one of a kind! I just love everything about it and so wish I would have had one of these when Riley was a newborn! In her Etsy store, she also has the cutest little diaper covers and hats...I believe she'll be adding more of her creations to her store soon, so stay tuned. Be sure to check her out here and here.

It's hot!

2009-04-20T16:28:00.000-07:00

So apparently summer has come early here in California {especially Sac-town} because it's been in the 90's all week! I took Riley outside today in hopes of having her burn off some of that wild woman 2 year old energy she has...but it was just too darn hot!! So we blew a few dandelions and retreated to our cool house for an ice cold glass of lemonade.

It's Friday

2009-04-17T12:09:00.000-07:00

What are you up to this weekend? Ryan and I will be spending the day in San Francisco for

Marta & Joel's wedding tomorrow--have I told you that SF is one of my most favorite cities in the world?

It's just under a month until Mother's Day...which is what this picture reminds me of. Have you made plans already?

Jenna + Adam

2009-04-16T00:21:00.000-07:00

Jenna's bubbly and fun personality is the perfect match for Adam's easy going self.....together, they make one cute couple! We met at Redondo Beach for their session and I have to say....I miss that fresh ocean air!

Jenna and Adam, Ryan and I had such a great time getting to know you better and we are really looking forward to your wedding this fall!!

{love her pink nail polish}

Did the Easter Bunny come by your house....

2009-04-12T18:22:00.000-07:00

...he came by ours :)

behind the scenes

2009-04-11T12:50:00.000-07:00

Another sneak peak from our engagement shoot (aka e-session) from last weekend in Redondo Beach! Oh...and the bag I'm wearing is my favorite shooting bag { aka the shootsac} I've had it for just over a year and love it!

Starbucks {my work displayed}

2009-04-07T19:48:00.000-07:00

I like coffee because:

1) It's the perfect start to my day

2) It smells good

3) It taste good (granted I have to add vanilla creamer and a pack of sugar)

4) It makes for a good date

5) Great conversations can occur over coffee

6) If you're cold, it can warm you up

7) If you're hot, you can get it iced for a cool drink

8) It has health benefits like curing my occasional headaches (it also has antioxidants)

9) It can turn my good mood great...or improve a not so good mood!

10) It gets me through a challenging day with a toddler!!

I haven't come across a coffee shop I didn't love...but a certain one I am absolutely loving right now is the Starbucks on 38th and J right here in Sacramento. WHY? Because they were kind enough to let me display my work in their store :) It's the Starbucks next to Koukla Kids (the best children's boutique in Sacramento) and across from Sacred Heart Church. My favorite Starbucks drink is a grande, vanilla soy latte...what's yours?

{and here is my cutie pie husband who hung all of the pictures....it took almost 2 hours!!}

catching up

2009-04-07T01:24:00.000-07:00

We got in from Orange County this evening after a nice trip visiting with family....and we also shot a beautiful engagement session while we were there too. Now that we're back, I have lots of emails to return and phone calls to make...if you've recently contacted me, I promise you will hear back in the next 48 hours.

Here's a polaroid from the engagement shoot we shot on Saturday....more from their session coming later this week :)

Tea Party Anyone?

2009-03-31T23:10:00.000-07:00

A little cup of friendship
With a bag of tea
When you drink this
Think of love from me.

-source unknown

When you’re feeling sad & blue
And have no clue what to do
Sit down and have a cup of tea
And a hug or two or maybe three
Feel those troubles melt away
And start you on a better day.

-by Paulette, 1998~~TLC Creations.

I know when a little girl wants to have a tea party, it's going to be a great shoot! What a precious little soul she is! And guess what? She has a brand new baby brother...I'm swooning over his jet black hair..

and his tiny little feet :)

For my Mom-in-Law

2009-03-27T18:03:00.000-07:00

My mom-in-law Linda signs up for my blog to be delivered to her email and she told me that whenever she see's picture's of Riley in a new post, they make her really happy! So I took this for her today! If you're the praying type, please keep her in your prayers because we found out earlier this week that she has breast cancer. I believe very strongly in the power of prayer and I have seen miraculous things happen both in my life and in the lives of many other because of the power of prayer! I love you Linda Jane!

If you want to find a Susan G. Komen race for the cure, click HERE to find one in California. I just saw that there is one coming up in May in Sacramento.... =)

Specs

2009-03-24T16:33:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the movie "Horton Hears a Who" ....we love that movie and if you've seen it, you'll know what I mean when I say that Riley was super excited about all of the little spec's she was blowing off of the dandelion... ;)

Have a wonderful Monday

2009-03-22T23:40:00.000-07:00

As some of you know, I was struck with an evil sickness last week...as in temperatures that reached 102! My bed was definitely my bff ....and thankfully, my very wonderful husband was able to stay home and watch the little one while I rested!

I'm much better now but am a bit behind on some of my work. So if any of my dear clients are reading this, and are awaiting a response from me...I promise you will be hearing from me this week.

Have a Happy Monday!

our first kiss

2009-03-21T20:37:00.000-07:00

I was reading the wonderfully talented Elizabeth Messina's blog tonight and in her most recent post, she asked her readers to share their kissing stories...and I couldn't resist sharing the story of me and Ryan's first kiss...

I remember my first kiss with my husband like it was yesterday (it was 8 years ago and we were just dating then)…yes, it was *that* memorable! You see, I didn’t think we were at the stage where he should be kissing me yet…in my mind, we were still becoming really good friends…even though I had a huge crush on him ;)

As we were both staring up at the sky engaged in some type of philosophical conversation, I noticed him getting a little bit closer to me...and all I could think about was how LOUD his heart was beating! As I mentioned earlier, I wasn’t in anyway thinking that he would want to kiss me yet…so I looked at him and said, “why is your heart beating so loud…are you okay?” And that’s when he kissed me =) It was magical...the best surprise kiss ever!

He later told me that he was a little embarrassed when I had asked him why his heart was beating so loud (and fast)…because obviously, the reason it was beating so LOUD was because he was nervous to kiss me.

So if you're feeling up to it...head over to Elizabeth's blog and share your story (oh, and share it with me too....and you don't have to be married to share your story ;)

Here are a few of my favorite pictures from our wedding...taken by our most wonderful photographer julie wilson photography

2009-03-17T14:45:00.000-07:00

the best photography advice I was given

2009-03-16T21:24:00.000-07:00

Sure, my passion is documenting the lives of kids, pregnancy and weddings....but another passion I have (that I don't get to do as often) is traveling and wondering the streets of cities with my camera in hand! It's a thrill..a challenge...a way to learn!

The best advise I've ever been given in terms of how to become a better photographer is to shoot as much as possible...as in, bring your camera *everywhere* you go! I remember one of the photographers with the VII agency showing us this simply amazing picture of an owl he took in New York city, and when he told us he captured it as he was taking his trash out....I couldn't believe it!! Yes...he even brought his camera with him as he took out the trash!

I don't bring my camera with me everywhere...but I really try! It's true though, if you want to become a better photographer...shoot, shoot, shoot and then shoot some more!! Even if your specialty is babies...shoot other things than that....it will help you be better at photographing babies. Constantly having your camera around will help form how you see the world photographically....it will help you notice foregrounds and background, how objects are being framed, and you'll be more aware of how the people around you are feeling and acting. Not only these technical things, but you'll have some great moments and memories documented!

So back to traveling! I posted a few of these images on my blog back in 07' from a trip we took to New York....and going through them again tonight made me yearn to do more traveling! Although it's not really practical, I daydream about spending the rest of my life with my family traveling the world and just taking pictures everywhere we go!

I took tons of pictures of things a typical tourist would take while in NY...but here are a few not so typical shots

Fleet week-Times Square

On the subway

On our way to Brooklyn

Ground zero

random plaque in NY

In the Financial District

Fleet week-Times Square

ryan and ri napping in central park

Central Park...on a very sweltering hot day!

times square

The Bronx

Her first subway ride...she's 9 months here

in a coffee shop

Self-portrait while getting pizza (see Ryan and Ri in the mirror to the left of me =)

simple pleasures

2009-03-12T01:30:00.000-07:00

What simple things bring a smile to your face? Here are a few of mine:

-scratching things off my to-do list

-laying in the sun and feeling nice an warm (w/ sunscreen of course)

-being around funny people....you know, the type of people who can make you laugh till your stomach hurts

-going to antique stores and finding really great pieces for a really great price

-finding money in my pockets that i forget about

-getting all dressed up and going out with my friends

-dancing...especially if it's to a justin timberlake song

-writing in my journal and feeling better when I've "gotten everything off my chest"

-meeting a friend for coffee and having a good conversation

-staring at my daughter when she sleeps

-taking pictures of sleeping newborns and their mama's

-stretching

Have a Happy Weekend!

2009-03-06T18:01:00.000-08:00

"Don't sweat the small stuff...and it's all small stuff"

-Richard Carlson

I've got a ton of work to catch up on this weekend...good thing I LOVE what I do! Another thing that I'm LOVING about this weekend...is that we're springing forward!! Don't forget to set your clocks!

staci + andy: part 1

2009-03-04T01:23:00.000-08:00

Some of my very first memories as a child are of my little sister Staci...and...well...let's just say they weren't very pleasant ;) You see, my life was good at a ripe old age of 4...I didn't have to share my toys, my parents lovingly gave me all of their attention, and overall, my days were stress free! Well, all of that changed one fall day when I realized that this new baby my parents had brought home...she was here to stay. Let me tell you, I was MAD!! And yes, I really do remember all of this! I would get so jealous watching my parents "oooh and aww" over her that I would secretly plot ways I could passively aggressively get their attention ( I'll spare you the details of my plots).

I think it was another 4 years before I finally came to accept that I better start being nice to my little sister because she might actually be fun to play with. Indeed, that is what happened. We would play "house" and "school" and I would also make her be my audience as I performed songs from "The Little Mermaid." When bedtime came, I would make her sleep right next to me because I got scared... and knowing she was right there made me feel safe.

My sister is one of my best friends and sadly (for me anyways), she lives all the way in Mississippi now! This fall she'll be getting married to Andy and I love listening to all of her weddings plans. We took these shots here in Sacramento when they were visiting a few weeks ago. It rained on and off all day, but this was the only time before their wedding that we would be able to do engagement pictures, so we had to make it work...and I'm so glad we did! I'll be sharing part 2 from their session soon!

button nose

2009-02-28T12:36:00.000-08:00

My sister to Riley: "You have a cute little button nose"

Riley: "NO I DON'T!! This is my nose (points to nose) and this is my butt (points to butt)"

Hidden Greatness, by Henri Nouwen

2009-02-26T00:56:00.000-08:00

"There is much emphasis on notoriety and fame in our society. Our newspapers and television keep giving us the message: What counts is to be known, praised, and admired, whether you are a writer, an actor, a musician, or a politician.

Still, real greatness is often hidden, humble, simple, and unobtrusive. It is not easy to trust ourselves and our actions without public affirmation. We must have strong self-confidence combined with deep humility. Some of the greatest works of art and the most important works of peace were created by people who had no need for the limelight. They knew that what they were doing was their call, and they did it with great patience, perseverance, and love."

-Henri Nouwen

Look what I saw today...

2009-02-24T18:47:00.000-08:00

cherry blossom tree's!! I'm so excited that they've started to bloom all around my neighborhood...I feel all warm and giddy inside when I see all of the pretty pink tree's. Good thing I had my polaroid camera with me today...doesn't it look almost like a painting? I swear I didn't do anything to it in photoshop!!

I'm just about booked for kids sessions through March...so if you're thinking about scheduling a session, email me now! I can't wait...this is going to be a great spring!

hair envy

2009-02-23T13:06:00.000-08:00

i'm always swooning over my daughter's hair...i love her wild women curls and sun kissed highlights! she has no idea how beautiful i think she is...

i'm back...

2009-02-22T20:16:00.000-08:00

I got in from Vegas this past Friday after being gone all last week at a photographer's convention/tradeshow called WPPI (wedding & portrait photographers international)...and oh my, I don't know where to begin in telling you all how fun it was. I met some of the most amazing people and listened to a few of the most wonderful presentations! And at the tradeshow I got to see some beautiful album companies that I am excited about using this year!

Here is Tracy from Tracy Routh photography who was my beautiful and fun roomate for the week...

And then on the last night we were there, a bunch of us girls got together and had a fabulous dinner...you know those types of get togethers when your stomach hurts from laughing so much...yep, that's what it was like.

Top row left to right: me, kelly freese, kelley holder, tracy routh; bottom row L to R: amanda balzer, michelle huesgen

I've got lots to blog about this week so stay tuned!

happy valentine's day. words that feed us

2009-02-14T01:17:00.000-08:00

Tonight Ryan reminded me how important it is to focus on the positive things in life....not always an easy thing for me to do. I had been feeling down bc of all of the loved ones who died in the plane crash last night in NY...and then today, I came across a few other heart-breaking stories of young families who had lost family members to cancer and car accidents. It was a lot to take in for one day and I was having a difficult time processing everything. Thankfully, I have my husband, who is the perfect yin to my yang. It's not that he's not sympathetic to the tradgedies in life, but God has blessed him with the gift of always being able to focus on the good things in life and the ability to live "in the moment." Tonight I am thankful to Ryan for reminding me that worrying only robs us from experiencing joy.

Here is a little sneak peak from my SISTER's engagement shoot...I thought it was appropriate for today =)

If you still have enough focus to keep reading, here was the daily inspiration that I got emailed to me today...it's by one of my favorite authors, Henri Nouwen:

Words that Feed Us

When we talk to one another, we often talk about what happened, what we are doing, or what we plan to do. Often we say, "What's up?" and we encourage one another to share the details of our daily lives. But often we want to hear something else. We want to hear, "I've been thinking of you today," or "I missed you," or "I wish you were here," or "I really love you." It is not always easy to say these words, but such words can deepen our bonds with one another.

Telling someone "I love you" in whatever way is always delivering good news. Nobody will respond by saying, "Well, I knew that already, you don't have to say it again"! Words of love and affirmation are like bread. We need them each day, over and over. They keep us alive inside.

cassie + chris engaged!

2009-02-13T01:06:00.000-08:00

Cassie is one of my long time friends...oh yes, we go all the way back to the days before high school...and boy oh boy, do we have some great memories together!! Let's just say that Cassie and I were always partners in crime...in a good way of course =)

This was the first time that we got to meet Chris...and right from the beginning, we could tell how absolutely perfect Cassie and Chris were for one another. They are such a fun and laid back couple and we can't wait to photograph their wedding in May!!

Cassie and Chris, thank you for choosing us to be apart of your upcoming wedding...we are honored and can't wait!

they already have 2 furry kids:

christmas in feb?

2009-02-09T18:15:00.000-08:00

i'm not gonna lie...i've had a rough day! i usually like monday's bc of the fresh start to the week..but this one...well, it just didn't go the way i envisioned it. nothing too terrible happened, just LOTS of laundry piling up, a mile long to-do list that didn't get anything crossed off, and a 2 year old who not only refused to take a nap today...but also decided to do the opposite of everything i told her....and i'm still debating whether or not she somehow managed to steal my coffee and drink it this morning. my usual mantra's like "you can do it" or "this too shall pass" just weren't cutting it today....but that's okay, bc i know tomorrow is a new day, a chance to start over. i also know that this time next week, i'll be in las vegas at wppi...and that is definitely something to look forward to.

Ya, I know Christmas was a long time ago...but better late than never right?

we went to Disneyland a few days before Christmas, and had a blast. Riley loved everything...even the Pirates of the Carribean ride. It was so BUSY though..which was expected but annoying!

i lived by the beach for 25 years and definitely took it for granted...i miss it now!

moi

2009-02-06T00:40:00.000-08:00

i feel a little akward sharing this bc i'm in all the pictures...but i'm working on a little project and a few of these are some of my all time favorite pictures with ryan and riley...

isn't she looovely...

2009-02-04T00:44:00.000-08:00

....isn't she wooonderful? yep, that's the song I was singing out loud as I was editing this recent session (unfortunately for Ryan, I don't sound anything even remotely close to Stevie Wonder).

This sweet little lady though, was such a delight to photograph...she made my job way too easy by sleeping away and looking pretty. I know I write this every time I blog about newborns...but there is something so sweet about the first few weeks of a babies life...something very surreal! Lucky for me, I get to photograph another little newborn sometime in the next couple weeks!

(on a side note, i have a VERY good reason for why my blog wasn't updated last week....it was BROKEN!! i'm not sure what's been going on but it's been so wonky lately...I finally got it fixed yesterday. And it's looking like my new blog may not be ready until March...it's so hard to wait...but I know it will be worth it)

sleepy...

2009-01-23T14:58:00.000-08:00

the weather here lately has been really grey and gloomy...and it's kinda sad! I know we really need the rain...but the problem i'm having with it is i DON'T want to get out of bed when it's like this! I'm one of those people that just loves the sun and without it, I have a really hard time feeling motivated! PLUS, I had to post pone a photoshoot today :(

Alright, enough complaining...I thought this picture perfectly depicts the mood around here lately. don't you just love those little newborn yawns?

Have a good weekend...I'll be back on Monday!

kelli jane photography is looking for...

2009-01-21T21:03:00.000-08:00

(comments section still isn't working)

so there ya have it! email your friends and let them know =) oh, and Happy "day after the inauguration" Day! didn't all the Obama's look so cute? loved the little crewcuts outfits the girls wore! "...we have chosen hope over fear..."

-Kelli

did ya hear the news...

2009-01-19T16:57:00.000-08:00

polaroid film is being SAVED!!!

my sleeping baby

and here are a few more recent polaroids...

i'm back...again. sacramento wedding photographer

2009-01-17T13:52:00.000-08:00

i know i said i would be back to blogging in my last post...but this time it's for reals! i thought i was going to lay low for the month of jan...but i was a lot busier than i had planned. i had a lot of house work to catch up on (or should i say never ending housework)...photography stuff to do, and i also went to go visit my parents for a week but their internet wasn't working so i wasn't online very much...with the exception of my iphone.

(**thanks to my sweet blog readers for letting me know that the comments section hasn't been working...this makes me sad bc i love hearing from people. i don't know why this is yet but i'm working on fixing it**)

so i've decided instead of blogging everyday...4x per week is my new goal. so check back often...AND..pretty soon here, I will have a brand new blog...but it's looking like it may not be ready until March! I've hired the very talented crew at into the darkroom to help put it all together...can't wait!

so yesterday my friend and super cute photographer alex (alexandra frankel photography) came over and while our girls played we chatted and took pictures =) there are still tons to go through but i loved these two of ryan and i...

and this next one is one that i'll always treasure...he gives the best hugs ever and i never want to forget what that feels like! i know it's cheese ballish but hey, i'm kinda like that. (speaking of cheese ball, did you see bride wars? i did....i thought it was cute and fluffy but i liked it. i thought the dance scene at the bar was really funny and i wanted to steal all of the clothes that anne hathaway wore. i love ann hathaway btw!)

back to the swing of things

2009-01-04T15:37:00.000-08:00

i'll be getting back to work this week...slowly but surely. the past few weeks have been fun and very very relaxing. i think the dark circles under my eyes might have even become a few shades lighter...guess getting a little sleep will do that to you =)

san francisco: marta + joel

2008-12-31T00:45:00.000-08:00

well, i think this is officially my last post of 2008... and what an awesome couple to end the year with too...marta and joel. i meant to post it a few weeks ago, but i didn't realize how hard it was going to be to post during the holiday's. i first met marta at cal poly when i joined alpha chi omega and i loved how friendly she was to me and everyone else. i remember being really nervous meeting all the girls in my new sorority but that quickly went away bc they were all very welcoming =) anyways, a few years passed after we all graduated from cal poly, and i surprisingly ran into her again at a mcgeorge law school formal that i had gone to with ryan. as it turned out, marta was going to mcgeorge (which is where ryan was going too) and so did joel. a few months ago marta contacted me about engagement pictures for her and joel...and I was so very excited that we would have an opportunity to all get together again. marta and joel are now working in sf and ryan and i were more than happy to go into the city to meetup with them!

we had such a great time walking through the marina hanging out and capturing them...oh, and did i mention that the weather was *perfect* in san francisco this day! marta and joel are such a cute couple so they made our job pretty easy ;)

i'm working on an album for them right now, and when i'm finished i'll be sure to post pictures bc it's a really pretty album!

this next one was taken on the top of the building where they live

wishing...

2008-12-30T21:38:00.000-08:00

it would rain. i usually don't like rainy days but lately i've been in the mood for one. my mom got me some rainboots for christmas and i really want to wear them. here are riley's latest rainboots...she is obsessed with these things!!!

(my mom also got me lots of polaroid film for christmas...i was SUPER happy about that)

what did i do over christmas break?

2008-12-27T21:02:00.000-08:00

perfected my rock band singing skills of course =) LOL! i just got back to my house after spending way too many hours in the car ....i'll be catching up here on the blog soon!

my little one...

2008-12-20T14:32:00.000-08:00

has been quite stubborn lately...but...

she no longer wears diapers! yep, it's been a week straight since she's worn one so i think i can officially say she's potty trained.

blog break

2008-12-18T23:23:00.000-08:00

ahh, i think the day has come where i'm not sure if i can continue to blog everyday....at least for this month anyways. there are still some very important things i want to add to the blog before the year is over...but for now, i just can't promise i will have a new post everyday. starting in january though...i'll continue to update the blog daily (btw...i've been working really hard on designing my new blog and i'm so excited with the way it's been coming along. since i have a major case of creative a.d.d i tend to change my mind with the design every other day...but i think i finally came up with something that feels like me)

with that said, here was our Christmas card this year....i had a lot of fun designing it. I somehow lost my address book in our move so quite a few of my cards just went out yesterday...and there are still some address' i need to get (i know i know, i need to add all my address' to my computer/phone)...and if you want me to send you one...send me your address and i will =)

close call

2008-12-17T23:04:00.000-08:00

before I write this post, let me first just say that everything is OK. i got a call from ryan saying that he thought riley might have taken some medicine. the medication he was referring to was out of her reach but she pushed a few of our chairs around and climbed up and got it. since we weren't entirely sure, we decided to take her to the ER as well as call the poison control center. she was acting like her normal, happy self the entire time...but we just wanted to be sure. the dr. checked her out and seemed to think that everything was fine, but wanted us to stay for a few hours for observation just to be safe. in the mean time, one of our friends went to our house to look for the missing tablets and thankfully, he found them in one of our chairs!!! she had indeed gotten a hold of them...but didn't take them, praise the Lord!! even though they were up and out of the way....tonight's extravaganza was a reminder that we have to be EXTRA conscious of where we put things bc we all know how much toddlers like to be curious little monkeys. since i just got home, i think i'm going to call it a night and get some sleep!

photographic essays

2008-12-16T23:56:00.000-08:00

i saw this photo-essay last week and it struck me so i thought i'd share. it's by photographer, phillip toledano, and it's called, "days with my father." Here is the web address: http://www.dayswithmyfather.com/. The way he writes about his father paired with the pictures he takes will make you think...it made me think about a lot of different random things (his father has no short-term memory). To go through the story, click on the the bottom right hand corner of the pictures. Here is a screen shot from the website:

a few polaroids

2008-12-15T23:35:00.000-08:00

you all know how much i *heart* my polaroid camera...maybe i should start a blog solely dedicated to polaroids..hhmmm?

this next one is of my desk at home. i loooove finding vintage goodies...especially ones with a little shabby chic flare. i got my desk at a little antique shop down the street as well as the chair. the chair is actually a lot brighter but the polaroid sort of dulls it a bit. the 2 pictures you see at the top of the photo (yep, the ones that are cutoff) are vintage too...they're of ballerina's. i originally got them to just use the frames...but i ended up not wanting to change anything.

i posted pictures from this engagement session a while ago...but I never posted this polaroid i happen to take. doesn't it seem like this picture could have been taken 20 years ago? love polaroid film!

the happiest place on earth

2008-12-14T22:08:00.000-08:00

my weekend just got a whole lot better......why?? well...we just found out we're going to disneyland next week!!!!! this really is a huge blessing from God bc I didn't think we were going to be able to go for quite some time. i absolutely cannot wait to see riley's expression and reaction to seeing minnie and mickey...and all the other disney characters. oh, i can't wait!! ryan and i have been working so much the past few months, it's going to be nice to leave all of our stresses and work for a day and simply enjoy being together with our family at disney land. *sigh* i'm feelng very thankful tonight.

Tis the season...giving is awesome!

2008-12-11T23:55:00.000-08:00

this post will be left up through friday and the weekend

*a big thanks to my fellow forum member and photography friend kristin of essential imagery for starting this wonderful project. This holiday season, many photographers in the nation are now offering the joy of photography for a very special family, with Kristin’s lead. Now we would like to extend the gift of giving to you!

The quote that led her to this creative spark was the following “Be grateful for everything. Even your debt. People in some nations would be happy to have debt, as it means they have a way to provide for their families."

How it works:

You know someone. You know someone who's experienced a tragedy, is struggling to stay afloat, is volunteering selflessly despite extenuating personal circumstances, is raising kids while holding down more than one job. You know someone who may not be able to afford custom photography, but who would cherish it this holiday season. You know someone who deserves a year-round reminder of their family's spirit, love, and beauty.

You know someone. I guarantee it.

I want to know who they are, and I want to give them the chance to experience complimentary custom photography – $1000 worth, to be exact. Whether it's canvas or albums, prints for Grandma, or a slideshow to watch over and over...it's in your power to give them the artwork they deserve this holiday season.

The person who nominates the winner receives a $200 print credit toward a future session. What better reason to show some love could there possibly be, people?

The rules:

The nominee must reside in Northern California (Bay Area-Sacramento-up to Tahoe) Tell me who you know, what they're experiencing, and why they deserve my artwork. Please include a way to contact both your nominee and yourself as well. Also, you cannot nominate yourself.

email me the full story: kelli@kellijanephoto.com

The winner will be announced the day after Christmas...get nominating! I can't wait to read all of your entries!

Open your heart to someone this holiday season – and thanks for giving me the opportunity to open mine.

20/20

2008-12-08T23:41:00.000-08:00

is soooo far from what my eye sight is. i'm not sure what my actual vision is...but for those of you who are part of the contacts/glasses world my prescription is a -5.25...yep, i can barely see when i don't wear my contacts.

WELL, yesterday one of my contacts popped out of my eye and I never found it. since I wear hard lenses (btw, i switched to hard lenses a few months ago bc they are suppose to improve your vision and you can sleep with them in. and yes, they totally work. my vision has been slightly improving and it's suppose to continue to get better over the course of the next few years) the only option was to get a new one made bc it's a custom fit to my eye. Since my glasses are broken, I went about a day without being able to see (it gives me a bad headache to just wear 1 of them). I'll be honest....I was very grumpy bc of this as well as SO unmotivated to get anything done bc I couldn't see.

All of this made me think about what I would do if I didn't have the gift of contacts. Would I even be able to be a photographer? Probably not. We also decorated our Christmas Tree the night I lost it, and it made me so sad that I couldn't see clearly what the entire tree looked like all lit up and decorated. I felt so bad for taking the gift of sight for granted all these years...especially since without it, I couldn't do one of the things I love the most...photograph. Lesson of the day: I'm thankful I can see....even if it's by artificial means. I'm thankful for the technology we have to make contacts or even lasik surguries too (LOL..*side note*...as I wrote that last statement, I had a flash back to napoleon dynamite's brother singing..."yes, i love technology" LOL)

now to a few pictures. oh how i adored this session. this little guy and his family are some of the most genuinely kind people i've met. thank you, thank you, thank you, to all of my clients this past year for choosing me to photograph your children. I've loved getting to know each and every one of you as well as catching up with those who i hadn't seen in a while...relationships are so important to me and I value all of them!

bedtime stories

2008-12-07T23:54:00.000-08:00

i asked riley to tell me a story tonight before bed...

riley: once upon a time there was a momygirl

me: a mommygirl?

riley: yes, and the mommygirl went into the forest for goodness sakes. the end

25...

2008-12-06T16:26:00.000-08:00

is the number of polaroids i just finished scanning to my computer. took this one this morning. despite how much i disdain the winter (I know i shouldn't complain...i live in california where it doesn't go below 45 degrees) i like how our trees blossom with hundreds of oranges this time of year.

flickr

2008-12-06T09:54:00.001-08:00

i was hesitant to join flickr a few months ago bc i knew that becoming part of one more thing online would most likely distract me from getting things done....plus, it seemed a bit overwhelming. I'm so glad i didn't listen to myself bc flickr has inspired me sooo much! it's one of the reasons i got my polaroid camera and since joining I've started to do a lot more personal photography projects. not to mention that flickr is FULL of talented photographers who are nothing short of amazing! The other day I was "flickr tagged" to share the 5th picture in the 5th folder on my computer and then I had to tag 5 other people.

so here is my 5th picture which was under my 5th folder called "personal photography projects." I took it in feb. 2006 at the san luis obispo mission...we use to live right by the mission.

(btw, on a completely different notw...i'm starting the POTTY TRAINING process today with riley. i *think* she's been ready for a while...but I guess I shall see right?

little sneak peak

2008-12-05T23:44:00.000-08:00

a few weeks ago ryan and i went to San Francisco for a shoot. here's a little sneak peak until next week:

been reading a lot of his books lately

2008-12-04T23:44:00.000-08:00

Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is youer than you.

Dr. Seuss

today

2008-12-03T14:47:00.000-08:00

this is what riley insisted on wearing...a "fur" coat and hat

and we decided to take a self-portrait

yummy

2008-12-02T23:45:00.000-08:00

when i eat cinnamon rolls...this is how i do it. only the middle...yummy =)

(shot with my iphone the morning after thanksgiving)

3 things...

2008-12-01T23:19:00.000-08:00

1) sacramento magazine featured la martine in their holiday gift guide this month for their "year of flowers subscription". kimberly is so talented and i love seeing the way she puts together flowers...i wish i would have know her when i got married. you can check out her blog by clicking HERE.

2) when i see this next picture, the first thing that comes to my mind is "slug bug no punch backs"...and then i think of how cute little "H" is...she is by far one of the cutest little balls of happiness i've ever known=)

3) somehow over the weekend, my inbox became very full....so it might take me a few extra days to get back to you if you emailed me. i promise i will get back to you though. also...just a little reminder, i'm taking the month of December and the first part of january off from shooting...but if you're interested in setting up a portrait session, please email me asap to set it up in the new year.

tales of a 2 year old sleep talker

2008-11-29T08:50:00.000-08:00

riley talking in her sleep last night: mommy...mommy...i DON'T WANT coffee anymore!!!

me: huh?

riley: I DON'T WANT coffee anymore!!!

me: okay riley, you don't have to have to have anymore coffee.

riley: okay mommy, thank you.

she falls back asleep. btw, she's never had coffee.

candlelit dinner for 3

2008-11-28T23:38:00.000-08:00

this was the first year we didn't spend thanksgiving with any of our extended families...it was bittersweet. we of course missed being with our families, but ryan and i also enjoyed our little quiet thanksgiving much more than we thought we would. it was also the first time either one of us had ever made a turkey. much to our surprise, our turkey came out absolutely perfect (thank you martha stewart). i do have to say though...i will never look at a turkey the same way! as ryan was cleaning out the giblets and i was working on something else, i heard him laughingly shout, "i found the head" ...WHAT? so i go over to see what he is talking about and sure enough, inside the turkey was a little bag with the HEAD in it...eyes, beak and everything!! eewww!! none the less, we had a good time learning how to make a turkey and it was fun doing it together. here are a few snapshots:

first, ryan and i doing a really good job of pretending to know what we are doing:

our menu:

roasted turkey (recipe from martha stewart) with homemade stuffing (and gravy)
salad with goats cheese, candied pecans, and dried cranberries
another type of stuffing with cranberries (thank you trader joe's)
mashed red-potatoes (i figured if i added enough butter and sour cream i couldn't mess it up)
steamed carrots with brown sugar
we also got cranberries and sweet potatoes but forgot to make them.
warm rolls with butter
champagne

dessert: pumpkin and pecan pie & cookies and cream ice cream

happy thanksgiving

2008-11-27T23:36:00.000-08:00

wishing everyone a very happy thanksgiving! i'll post pictures from our night tomorrow...for now, I'm off to watch a movie =)

newborns make me happy

2008-11-26T23:41:00.000-08:00

they're always so cute and snuggly and i can't help but smile behind my camera when i photograph them. there's nothing like the first few days of having your first baby...not knowing what to expect, adjusting your life in a major way, not too mention all the emotions you experience. there is just something surreal about that time...which is why i think it's so important to document it. whenever i look back at pictures of riley as a newborn...i am flooded with a lot of emotions. isn't it amazing how a simple photograph can bring out so many different feelings?

he woke up for a little bit...love this little look he gave me

aahh, back to sleep. i love his little hand.

definition of beauty right here:

i'm healed!

2008-11-25T23:30:00.000-08:00

my sinus infection is *finally* gone! have you heard of these things called a netti pot? they work wonders...and also are one of the stangest things i've ever done to cure an ailment.

i saw this demo video of how they work on youtube and actually...the girl giving the instruction is kinda funny...but she does a god job of explaining how it works. after i got use to how it works, i looked forward to using it.

i realized too it's been a while since i posted something related to photography! this is always a really busy time for photographers bc of the upcoming Holidays...and there is so much I want to share, i almost don't know where to start. so for now...i'm just going to keep posting these little sneak peeks until i can post more from each session.

1 person

2008-11-25T04:31:00.000-08:00

i usually have very mixed emotions about stories like this. on the one hand, it pains me to hear of stories where children are sick...but on the other hand, i know i shouldn't run away from these realities and that this boy's story deserves to be heard. i saw this story on the news tonight and at first i wanted to change the channel bc i knew i would start crying...but something inside me couldn't change the channel. i'm glad i didn't. to say that this little boy is *nothing but amazing* feels like an understatement. his story is such a reminder of what life should be about....helping and loving others, living without fear, and knowing that one person can make a difference. so while this story will probably make you cry, i encourage you to watch this news clip of how Brenden made a difference this past week in Seattle.

I wish I could be more like him.