Hair and Make-up: Gracey for Hope Artistry
Styling:  Gracey/Sarah

Photography: by Nicole

For fully gallery click (HERE) 

DO

Shop your closet. You most likely don’t need to buy anything new; you just have to look at what you already have with a different eye. Layering with tank tops is hot, and you can be just as sexy in a nice dress as you can in lingerie. Fishnets  and patterned tights are also an easy inexpensive way to bring the sexy. If you really want to make a statement with your images, then consider adding a stylist to your package. They can help make the most of your existing wardrobe.

Kehrin Hassan {Jet-Set-Wed}

Consider the favorite part of your body, is there anything you don’t want to show or showcase? If your breasts are your favorite, then look at corsets or bras. If you like your toosh, consider thigh highs and garter belts, high heels and other items that might help emphasize your assets.

Think of props of whatever kind that interest the person to whom you are gifting these sessions to, even if that person is you. What would make these photos feel like ‘you’?

Having your make-up done is STRONGLY advised, and may soon become mandatory. When you have your make-up done please have false eyelashes put on. I have a list of professionals I would highly recommend and would love it if you used one of them. (Click for links to their websites.) If you decide to use one of our talented Artists, arrive with clean hair and clean face.

-Hope Artistry                                                            -Faces by Frohmberg

Drink a lot of water, it’s good for your skin and makes you glow.

Search out images that you enjoy and make me a composite or a pin board on Pinterest. It gives us both a good idea of your comfort level and style.

Wax or shave a full day before your session to allow time for redness and possible irritation to settle down.

Don’t

Please don’t tan excessively before your session. Tan lines can be fixed, but it makes everything take a bit longer.

Please don’t wear anything tight to your session. Even a bra strap or jeans will leave a mark.

If your session is in a private home (other than yours) and not a hotel, please don’t wear perfumes.

Please don’t drink too much alcohol. It could make you puffy and your eyes will glaze.

Don’t bring your children for any reason. Please don’t bring your significant other (unless it’s a couples session) or more than one friend. Too many chefs in the kitchen can ruin the dish. And often lighting and space are concerns. If you are interested in planning a party around your session, I offer group rates and parties are available. In fact, if you can book a large enough party, your session could be free.

Don’t forget to eat on the day of your shoot. Not eating can lead to you shaking and that just makes things hard. A good meal will make no difference to your size, and it’s better for you to be happy and feeling well.

Most importantly relax and have fun. This should enjoyable not stressful. And don’t hesitate to contact me or one of the talented artists mentioned above if you have any questions. 

(This session was styled with help from Margaret Short of Margaret events, with make-up by NARS.) enjoy….

Call or e-mail today to book your own steamy session HERE

Images hold power. Of that we are certain. Museums are full of images, paintings, sculptures all making you feel something, evoking some type of emotion. The advent of the internet and the addition of social media has made the potential of this impact grow tenfold.

Something I discuss with each boudoir client and each bride whom opts for “getting ready images” is, “Do you fully understand the far reaching implications of having your image posted on Facebook or used in my portfolio?” 90% of my clients opt not to share their images online or in any media. This is limiting to my portfolio so you would think I wouldn’t post something like this. The common conclusion would be that I would try to encourage clients to share images. However I get emotionally attached to each image. I love sharing the images, I think you’re all beautiful. I don’t like making marketing materials or removing images with positive comments on them. That hurts my business more than simply not sharing in the first place. It gives the public the idea that there is something shameful or embarrassing about what you have done shooting with me, and that could not be farther from the truth. I understand fully the sensitive nature of intimate images and I would NEVER use or sell your images without your permission. There is the select few however that want to share the images, or want to help me expand my portfolio because they are proud of the images or they can’t believe how amazing they look. What I want each client to do before they sign off on use is to understand how far reaching the internet and specifically Facebook actually is.

As of today (April 17^th 2012) Facebook has over 845 Million Users covering the globe. The average age of users spans from 21-44 in it’s higher numbers and it’s closely followed by older ages. That means not only are your children on Facebook, your Grandparents are too. Facebook is a wonderful media for connecting and keeping in contact with friends and family, but in a survey of 1,500 Facebook users, 60% said they no longer knew 20% of their “friends” and 50% said they only speak with about 20% of them. Facebook has made minor tweaks to the way they handle images, which most people don’t even notice. The default choice for posted images is “friends of friends” and from a mobile device it’s public.  The following graphic shows the potential number of viewers for a single image posted to my business page.

The Power of Facebook on a single image

These numbers are compounded by the possibility of shooting in the town in which you live and work. Where society used to have 6 degrees of separation from each person it’s now more like two.

I don’t want to dissuade you from signing a full model release; I want you to consider it fully. If a full release is something you are interested in, it can deeply reduce costs involved and I offer a discount to those willing to do so. But signing a full release is not renegotiable. If you decide at a later date that you would like your images removed from this date forward it requires payment in full for your session and the replacement costs involved in reprinting any promotional materials in which your image was used.

When you shoot with me and sign your contract you are able to choose from the following options….

Here are the selected options….

• Please keep my images private, do not share with anyone

• I will allow the Photography studio to use images show other potential client(s) samples (only books in the studio & only lingerie shots, no nudity)

• I will allow the Photography studio to blog or showcase lingerie images on websites and Facebook as long as it is associated with the studio (including blogs for boudoir & photography sites).

• I will allow the Photography studio to use lingerie images for promotion (prints, emails, books at lingerie stores, websites social networking).

• I will allow the Photography studio to use nudes (tasteful of course) on the studios personal website.

• I will allow the designated Make Up Artist / Hair Stylist to have lingerie images for their portfolio or website.

NO ONE IS REQUIRED TO SIGN A FULL RELEASE

Thank you for reading this, and other photographers are welcome to use the graphic image. -Nicole Inskip (Nik)

When I started shooting boudoir, it was in a similar vein, not of a place of empowering anyone; more selfishly for the love of the form, human, male or female. I love the skill level required. (And there is quite a bit more than your average portrait photography).  I love the light shaping and posing. I love the retro feel of pin-up and the history behind burlesque.  While the fad of taking engagement photos in a field with a bunch of balloons next to a rail road tracks, may go out of style, “girly photos” like my Grandma calls them are timeless and not a fad. Contrary to what the up and coming Photographers may tell you. Yes, a crop of us are popping up and we now live in a time period when it is ok to hang a sign with a title proclaiming it to the world, but there have been just as many of us behind the scenes doing it for the love of the art form and maybe even for the strong beliefs that our body’s are not to be hidden or ashamed of . Betty Paige is famous for a reason, a good one, and behind her (or in front of her) was a crop of talented Photographers. What I had not anticipated when I took this on, was the empowerment angle of this gig. Betty Paige was a gorgeous bad ass, but she likely felt like one too!

I am lucky enough to have a Husband who tells me I’m beautiful often. But, let’s be honest his taste is questionable at times. (I wish I was kidding, I am a little ). I was not particularly a wall flower in school, but I wouldn’t call myself Miss Popularity either. So, no matter how many times he say’s it, low and behold even Mrs. I-don’t-care finds herself caring, and thinking about it. I don’t think you (as a woman) can help it. You wonder, am I pretty enough to do something like that? Am I thin enough? Yet, I have had clients say things like “That was so fun!” or, “I had the best time” but I’m not lucky enough to have had anyone expound on that until recently. A recent client told me, “I felt like that was more for me than him” and it struck me as funny at the time, but it’s true.  More often than not, women book a session for their significant other. My first time shooing boudoir was for a Groom’s gift and Valentine ’s Day is a very busy ‘gifting’ time of year for me. This year I even booked my own session for Valentine’s day. I wish I had done it sooner. It gave me valuable insight into what it felt like to be on the other side of the camera, but it also gave me a sense of how awesome it is as an experience. I’m so proud of my photos. I look amazing! I could hardly believe it was me for the first 20 or so photos and then at the same time I have people telling me that I look exactly like I did 16 years ago. A big part of this is, (and I can NOT stress this enough,)  working with very talented Photographers and hair and make-up, which I was lucky enough to do. But most of all, it was nice to see that person again, ME. I was not so much transformed as reawakened. It’s as if someone dusted off the goldfish crackers and red rimmed eyes from raising children and the weight of my household off my shoulders and allowed me to be ME for those few hours and best of all, there was someone there to record it on film for all time. My Husband was thrilled to see the photos, but after the dust settled on the gift, he looked at me and said, “That must have been so fun for you”. “If I had purchased a gift certificate for you to do that, would you have liked that?” and the answer is a resounding yes!

So what I am proposing here is, that we stop looking at boudoir as a gift for someone else and start thinking about it as a gift to yourself. Next time your husband/wife/lover/boyfriend/girlfriend asks what you want for Valentine ’s Day or Mothers day, or you’re turning 40 and your fabulous tell him this, “A boudoir session.”  And when you reach that goal at the gym, or you’re one year sober, or decide you’re happy exactly like you are and you just want to remember who that is, give me a call I’m good at dusting off goldfish.

There is no time like the present, if you would like to enter to possibly win a FREE session with Hair and Make-up click HERE (offer ends April 2nd 2012)

Click this link to enter: Watch for your referral code (not supported on mobile devices)

https://www.facebook.com/NicoleInskipPhotography/app_150794994973742

And since it’s Hunger Games week! “May the odds be ever in your favor” -Nik

This session was so much fun. Mom only had a mild heart attack. Not the full blown one we expected. You can see every image from this session HERE. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do. -Nik

Boudoir is shot at your comfort level. You decide how much or how little you would like to share. See this previous post on how best to prepare for a shoot Here.

"Personal Peepshow View Master"

Prices are subject to change without notice. Special pricing ends, Feb 8th..This is my lowest price EVER on boudoir! as always, larger packages and parties are available call 239-784-3196 or e-mail me at nicole@929designstudios.com to book.

Holiday mini sessions are priced at $100.00. They included a 20 minute session and 5-10 photos. But they also include custom designed holiday cards and envelopes. 25, 5×7  flat (pearl or linen) holiday cards are included in your session fee, additional cards are available for $1.75 per card each 25 cards.

Some of your design choices are here:

Mini session pricing is aplicable to your own session ideas. If seeing these cards gives you an idea of your own, you can design your own mini to fit your needs. Call 239-784-3196 or e-mail nicole@929designstudios.com today to book.

The speakers:

Charmed Weddings and Events

Kakes by Karen

CaterMasters

Signature Florals and Gifts

Model T Chauffer Services

Florida Talent Consultants

Atlas Party Rental

Nine29 Design Studios (Me!)

NOVP hdv

The properties have a Wedding Seminar and Lunch planned for Sunday October 9, 2011 at the Naples ZOO. Each bride is charged $35.00 and can bring one guest. This fee includes a brunch as well as entrance to the seminar. You can purchase tickets here.  (Ticket sales close at 3pm on Wednesday, October 5, 2011. Tickets MUST be purchased in advance).

Each vendor will have their own presentation, giving them time to give tips and ideas for each portion of your planning. The Ladies from Charmed will have a separate lecture where they will impart their wedding planning wisdom.  In my opinion, 30 minutes with a wedding planner is worth the $35 right there. The properties themselves will also have a panel discussion.

Lunch will be provided by CaterMasters and you will be eating with the vendors, giving you a chance to bend our ears a little more.

The cards are simple and cute. They have a link to your personal gallery and your password. They save you time and energy when you don’t have to forward your gallery to all your guests; and along with your Facebook sneak-peek help you share your day with more than just the ones who could make it

In my mind Allyson Strong as a tiny little spitfire; a seven year old tomboy who never takes off her Knicks hat and stood up as “best man” in her Mothers wedding to her step father Jimmy. It’s funny how that happens, how some people get stuck in your mind at an age and they never get any older. Ally is now a woman of 24 years old; In September of 2010 she was diagnosed with a rare form of cervical cancer. Although Ally was under Radiation and chemotherapy treatments at Sloan Kettering they have not yielded the desired results. And that is why I am writing this post today. The bills for Allyson are mounting and additional treatments are being sought.

In honor of one of my favorite {not so little, anymore} girls, I am offering this Mothers Day Special, which strangely enough falls on Ally’s birthday this year!

Mothers Day Mini Session AND contest!

Minimum $50 donation yields: a 20 minute session with your favorite mother and children {furry children and grand kids count too!} Including a web gallery for sharing and choosing prints! Print prices starting at only $4 for a 5×7. ALL PROCEEDS go to Allyson Strong and to raise awareness of small cell cervical cancer, worldwide!…book today by calling 239-784-3196. This special price is available now through June 13th with the contest ending on June 15th.

And that’s not all!!! My favorite photos from each shoot will be uploaded to my Facebook fan page. The family with the most “likes” on their photo, wins a DVD of ALL their photos on disk.

So I expect all you women to tell the hubby this is what you want for Mothers Day, and all you husbands and son’s to make it happen. I can’t think of a more perfect way to honor your Mother, Allyson and Women everywhere.

If you are too far away from Naples for a session, or just want to make a donation instead, donations {of any amount} can be made by using the following PayPal button.

Every little bit counts. Help for Hope, Hope for help.

If you can’t  book a session, and you can’t donate, I ask only that you share this link, as many times and places as you can!

*Family and Friends*You can click the orange “view gallery”  link to order any of these shots or download them {free} by viewing large and right clicking. Enjoy! -Nic

*confused clients* This is a wedding photo booth set up I did for my friend. You TOO can have this at your wedding starting at $800.00. Actual physical photo booth starting at $1,300.00. Call today to book 239-784-3196 or e-mail nicole@929designstudios.com 

Calling all lions,lambs and boudoir bunnies. It’s spring and I am in the mood for another boudoir special. My boudoir package normally $300.00 has been temporarily slashed in price down to $200.00. Even the mathematically challenged such as myself can tell that’s $100 off! These session fees include an online gallery for choosing prints, a custom printed DVD {no case} and a discount code for $150 off a 4 x 4 leather KISS album. (normally $300) bringing this amazing add on down to only $150.00. So…..to recap….what would normally run you $600 dollars, has been reduced to $350.00.

If you have been on the fence about booking now is the time to jump down. This price will only be in effect till, May 31st.

As always, you can sign a full release of photos for an additional discount! Call today for information. 239-784-3196 or e-mail nicole@929designstudios.com

Congratulations to those of you who voted for the Tropical Mosaic Garden for the Naples Botanical Gardens 11.11.11 wedding. You WON!
{From the Naples Botanical Garden website}
“The Date Palm Allee is the perfect venue for your wedding with an entrance within the Tropical Mosaic Garden that creates a spectacular promenade for the bride towards the ceremonial stage of the Grotto or the oval lawn under the vine covered pergola. The Grotto is a perfect location for a small intimate ceremony for up to 35 guests. Our Tropical Mosaic Garden can host up to 300 for corporate or private cocktail reception or dinner. The newly remodeled indoor Windstar Garden Room, a 3,000 square foot air-conditioned space, can accommodate up to 150 seated and 300 for a cocktail reception.”

The next item to be voted on is the wedding dress. The dresses are provided by Loretta Bridal in Bonita Springs.  To vote, simply click here. You can vote daily for your favorite. I can’t wait to see what you pick! * Pick the pockets, pick the pockets {The Mimi}* The dress choices are ”The Mimi” {my favorite} “The Diana” and “The 8702″ I have a few never before seen photos of the dresses here to help you choose! enjoy! <3 -Nik

Coming soon……a sneak peek of the invitations….

This is an excerpt from the Gardens website which you can also access by clicking here.

”

Congratulations to the Winning Couple – Princess Moody & Gabriel Davis!

About the Couple:
Princess Moody is a 26 year old student at Simmons College in Boston, MA in her final year pursuing a graduates degree in Social Work. She is currently working as an intern at an outpatient program for women in recovery from substance abuse. Though born in Columbus, Georgia, she moved to Columbus, Ohio when she was 13 and tries to get home to visit her three siblings and the rest of her family, who she’s very close with.

Gabriel Davis is 25 years old and currently attending Harvard Law School in Cambridge, MA. The Ohio native is very involved in his school, serving as the treasurer for the Harvard Black Law Students Association and contributing to school law journals. He has also participated in various legal clinics, including one serving indigent clients in danger of being evicted from their homes. The jazz lover, who also admits to being a bit of a bookworm, is looking forward to marrying his sweetheart in a classic ceremony with a reception that is filled with laughter, dancing, cake, champagne, of course jazz, and the couple’s closes family and friends.

Their Story:
The couple met through an AmeriCorps program one summer doing work at the same Cincinnati nonprofit that provided assistance for those with health challenges. The cause was one that hit close to home for Princess. After losing her father and trying to care for a disabled mother, Princess admitted she hadn’t been looking for love, but found it, none-the-less, in Gabriel as they spent more and more time working together.

“Falling in love with Gabriel was a fresh breath of air,” explained Princess. “He brought happiness into my life after I had experienced so much loss and sadness.”

Less than a year into the relationship, Gabriel proposed one muggy June evening in 2008 alongside the Ohio River as they gazed over the Cincinnati skyline. Their education and passion for public serve, however, has remained their priority. With the debt they accumulated between the, they knew they had little chance at any kind of wedding in the company of their beloved friends and family.

How YOU Can Help – Get Involved
You can help make Princess’ and Gabriel’s special day a beautiful celebration by voting!  Friends, family and the public will have a chance to get involved in the wedding plans of the winning couple by submitting their selections for several key elements of the wedding in a voting process. Each month from March 2011 – August 2011, the public will have the chance to vote on their choice for the following items:

• Ceremony Location – Provided by Naples Botanical Garden
• Stationary – Provided by Arabesque Stationer and Gift Shop
• Wedding Dress – Provided by Loretta Bridal Boutique
• Floral Bouquets – Provided by Grace Lakes Florist
• Wedding Cake/Pastries – Provided by Be Happy Cakes

I have the photos of the items to be voted on and will be posting more sneek peeks in the coming days.

See my next post for extra photos of the ceremony locations, you won’t find anywhere else!

Congrats Gabriel and Princess!! I can’t wait to meet you! <3 Nicole

If you are on the fence about booking today, know that the albums included in your package are just as sexy as the photos they will hold. The colors in these designs can be changed and fonts as easily removed and or, altered.

I have made endless attempts myself, tripods and handheld remotes. They always look stupid. I have had some over time a few that I could live with but I get bored of them quickly. I absolutely refused to have the (obviously obligatory) photo of me taking a photo. I was honestly confused how an entire group of creative professionals can be so, not-creative. I came to realize on Saturday morning it’s not lack of creativity but a profound fear of being on the other side of the camera.  I felt ridiculous and it speaks to the abilities of the photographer I am about to tell you about that you can’t tell in these photos.

I had the pleasure of working with Monet on her logo for her emerging photography business. Monet’s style is very simple, clean, no fuss no frills, let the photo speak for itself. I knew right away I wanted her to take my head shots. How can you get bored of something like that.

I am really pleased at the way they turned out. Monet specializes in Children and Families, as well as Birthday Parties and Special Events…. check her out today at Monet Layton Photography.

I have been doing this for a while now and I have been to a lot of weddings but Kamii and Mathew’s hand written vows made me cry. (A hazard in my line of work as using my eyes is kind of important.) I am sure it had a lot to do with just how much I adore Kamila. She is just as amazingly beautiful on the inside as well as the out.  Mathew and I turned out to have a few things in common as well. I wish these two all the best going forward and I can’t wait to see what life has in store for these two.

To Matt and Kamila’s Friends and Family…

You can share this link by clicking one of the share buttons below. When I am through editing, there will be a link available to view and purchase all of these photos, as well as the rest of the nights. If anyone needs help, please don’t hesitate to ask.  -Nicole

Now if you would like you have another more earth friendly option. The following photos are of a wonderful new natural media packaging. This company also provides the most amazing albums, I hope to show you soon. Loktah is a collection of Eco-friendly paper premier albums and DVD cases. The craftsmanship on these products is outstanding. Even the string used to tie them is coated in bees wax to protect it. This a little clip from the sites about section:

These books come in a number of different colors and the leather is very soft and smells wonderful. I dare you not to rub it on your cheek!

The pages are very thick and full color wonderful quality prints that lay flat. This prevents you from having to do any sort of odd cropping.

 They are wonderfully bound to limit wear on the fold.

This style of album is priced as follows (it may be added to your existing wedding package more economically) The price below is based on 20 spreads (2 pages) (on average 30-40 photos)

4 x 4 for $300 and $2.00 per extra spread

One of the things I am most curious about with this project (aside from the prospective couples) is how the items will be chosen. Each main design element will be voted on by the public. Dresses (see previous post) cakes, invitations, location (within the garden). Each of these pieces have such strong thematic elements to them, I can’t wait to see if they all match up or become a melange of awesomeness. (Once again, I wish I could vote. )

Because the contest is not open to local brides, one of things I hope people get a grasp of, is just how amazing these vendors are.  The vendors involved in this project are quite literally the best of the best in Naples wedding planning. Kim at Be Happy cakes for instance makes her cakes for some of the hottest restaurants in Naples. Arabesque works with some clients so exclusive their names can’t be mentioned.  Grace Lakes is the top choice for wedding planners and brides all through Collier and Lee counties.

The application period for this amazing opportunity is coming to a close so fill out this application today! Because time is up on January 31st 2011.

And now, some sneek peeks at these amazing choices from Kim at Be Happy Cakes.

To view the rest of the gardens website, please click the reciprocal link on the right of this page. And share this link!  please share this link with any and all prospective couples.

You are not alone in this. In fact many professional photographers who have been doing this for years had trouble when they moved to digital files. The trouble with digital SLR’s (Single-lens reflex camera) is that they capture images in 2:3 ratio and compact cameras (your point and shoot) capture in 3:4 neither of which match the 4:5 ratio of an 8 x 10 image.

One way to fix this is to try to watch your cropping. As you add your photo to your cart in my web galleries you are given the option to crop your photo. If you don’t hand crop your photo the center of the photo is most often chosen by default, in some cases this is ok. In most it’s not.

My suggestion is that you choose another size. Unfortunatly frame makers and sellers have yet to discover the trouble with 8 x 10′s and fidning a frame may be troublesome.  But you will find it far easier to print your photo in 4 x 6″, 6 x 9″, 8 x 12″, and 12x 18″. Matting your 8 x 10 can also be a problem resolving decision but it often requires custom framing which can also be expensive. If you find these resolutions to be troublesome, please call. I can hand crop your photo to 8 x 12″ and have it sent to you in any number of beautiful frames and it’s comes right to your door,taking the guesswork out of all of this.

As soon as they decided that every kid should get a similar card, meaning you could no longer make sure your BFF got the She-ra and your arch rival got the Tri-Klops (I know I am dating myself,); The first thing I thought was, why not do photo cards? It’s a cute way to do the same card for every kid. It identifies the card as having come from YOUR kid. Bonus! I don’t have to fill them out for my 2 year old.

We can do these adorable cards in wallet size 24 cards for $15.00 as a bonus you can order them same design in 5×7 (with envelopes)  for the Grandparents and special friends $2.00 each for the first 25 (min) and $1.75 each additional 25.

I am reducing my session fee in the spirit of the holiday and to make the small cards more affordable. Mini Valentines sessions starting at $100 for ½ hour session and two photos for your holiday cards.

You can get him a card and some candy, but let us be honest he does not want that. OR, you could get him something sexy and sweet he can treasure for years to come.  A pocket album he can carry with him, a Voluptuous  black, Passion  pink or Forbidden green (I could go on) leather album, a calendar with your photos, the possibilities are endless and range in price from insanely affordable to very luxe and high end.  

The whole process is about to become more affordable. I am opening up a Valentines Boudoir  session special. On January 21^st from 9am till 7pm your session fee is $175.00. (Normally $300) Your one hour session includes the following:

A password protected gallery of fully edited photos.

A pocket sized 3” x 3” pocket album of 7 to 10 images.

A custom printed DVD and DVD case of all of your images.

Many ala-cart options are available as well. If your session is booked on January 21^st you save 20% on those items as well. A leather mini Kiss album normally $300 dollars would only be $240 !!!

If you are feeling nervous or apprehensive about a boudoir shoot see this previous post with answers to many FAQ.

Call 239-784-3196 or e-mail nicole@929designstudios.com today for pricing.

Please have the happiest of holidays and enjoy your friends and families. From our house to yours Merry Christmas!

I will be back Monday to finish those New Years cards and book those boudoir sessions in time for Valentine’s Day I will spend my time off considering a Valentines promotion I have a big specials planned for the weekend of January 22nd.  Call 239.784.3196 to book now!  Most albums have three week turn-around time.

A boudoir is a lady‘s private bedroom, sitting room or dressing room. The term derives from the French verb bouder, meaning “to pout“.[1] ”A great deal of “boudoir” is now created in luxury hotel suites, where it has become very fashionable to create a set of sensual images for women in “boudoir style”.  Other common themes for boudoir photography are anniversaries, birthdays, Valentine’s Day, weight loss, maternity, any form of body change or alteration (breast augmentation or reduction, etc.), and for soldiers overseas.”

So Wikipedia said it, it must be so… Valentines day is a great time for boudoir sessions.

Now booking with Valentines Day Pricing. $300 flat session fee on location. Affords you a password protected gallery and custom printed DVD of your images as well as a pocket sized accordion album of 7 to 10 images.

Get together with your girlfriends and get better pricing. $200.00 per girl minimum of 5 maximum of  10 and I will book a luxery hotel room for your session and provide refreshments. Also including a pocket sized album and custom DVD of ALL your images.

call: (Nicole) 239.784.3196 or e-mail nicole@929designstudios.com

* Add a Boudoir Shoot to your wedding package for only $200 dollars !

Boudoir FAQ: 

Boudoir means bedroom in French. As a photography style the concept is slightly broader. These are romantic photos taken of you generally in your bedroom or some women prefer a tastefully appointed hotel room.  Boudoir images are meant to be tasteful not trashy and a professional photographer is the key to attaining that look.  Familiarities with lighting and posing and extensive Photoshop skills are used to make you look glamorous and sexy. Some things to expect from your shoot:

• Your limits and what you feel comfortable with set the tone for the day.
• Fine details of your pose are watched and you are often told to move to cover up bit and pieces you don’t want exposed.
• You may be nervous about the session but I assure you, I am 5 feet tall and a married mother of two. There might not be a less intimidating person on earth.  

I want my shots to be private?

Your online gallery will be protected by a password of your choosing. Unless you agree and sign paperwork to the effect, your photos will never be posted on our website or used in advertizing.

I don’t want to be alone, can I have someone there?

Yes. I ask that you limit the other people involved to one, due to space and lighting issues. But I understand and want you to be as comfortable as possible.

Getting Ready

• Please make a folder of images to e-mail to me of styles you would like to emulate.
• Pamper yourself; get a manicure and pedicure the polished look will enhance your photos. If you are not having your make-up done, please try to wear fake eyelashes
• If you normally wax please do so the day before to avoid irritation marks
  • Wear non-restrictive clothing the day of your shoot. Underwear (even socks and sunglasses) can leave marks on your skin.
  • If the shoot is in your home turn the heat up or air down to make yourself comfortable in less clothing.

What to wear

• Cute and fun undies, boy shorts and knee socks. Items that fit your lifestyle,
• Does he have a favorite team? A jersey or hat can be fun. Is he in construction ? a hard hat. Army ?
• Lingerire, corsets, stockings, garters, ECT.
• Swimwear, jeans, skirts can all be useful.
• His clothes, long jackets,ties,his dress shirt all work well
• Accessories, pearls,lolly pops, costume pieces
• Most important!!! SHOES the higher the heel the better the brighter the color the better, shoes, shoes and more shoes.

Shhhh….. it’s our secret (and the people I hope your share this link with and my Facebook Fan page.) 

These are sneak peeks of the dress choices for the Naples Botanical Gardens 11.11.11 dream wedding give away. These are close ups of the three options to be voted on around June 3rd. I have my favorite! I can’t wait to see what everyone picks. These dresses were graciously provided by Loretta Bridal  Boutique in Bonita Springs. Loretta Bridal has a beautiful selection of dresses. The dresses are of such a wide selection there is something for everyone. Carina and her staff are very knowledable and share years of experience in the bridal business. I fell in love with at least 4 dresses in the short hour or so I spent with them. In fact one of the new textile love’s-of-my life, happens to be one of her give-away choices!

Feel free to share this link and don’t forget to go to this page to discus the give-away the choices and your wedding plans !

Branding your business properly is a lesson I learned the hard way. I started out as a full service design studio. I offered wall murals and custom art for children’s rooms, graphic design and as an afterthought photography. Photography quickly became both my passion and my bread-winning offering. Simultaneously my brand began to make less and less sense and become more and more recognizable. Now I am in a slow transition to regroup and swing into a logo/name/brand that makes more sense to what I am offering. I could have jumped into nine29 Photography, makes more sense and keeps the name I have established, but I can’t do that. nine29 photography is used by a photographer in Oregon doing well for herself.  

I am telling you this story because I hope that going forward with your intentions to become a professional photographer you will consider better than I did where you want to go in looking to the future. Consider the applications of your logo, from watermark to business cards to web and print. Your name and logo should be permanent. This is not an area to make mistakes. I would like to help others not make the mistakes I did. I plan to take my skills as a graphic artist and help my fellow emerging photographers identify themselves going into business for the first time as professionals with style and grace. Photography is a business like any other. It requires work in marketing and sales, you must handle people well and you must treat yourself as a CEO from the very beginning, you are selling a brand and that brand is YOU.

The Vendors:

nine29 Design Studios, Grace Lakes Floral, Cater masters, Loretta Bridal (dress), Decanted, Be Happy Cakes, Party Time Rental, No Worries Events, Arabesque (invitations), Springhill Suites, and Gryphon Jewelry

 The give-away encourages guest participation in the voting on of everything from the bride and groom who win, to the cake that is chosen. The voting public will choose the couple, the location in the garden, the dress, the invitation, the flowers, and the cake with three choices in each category. I have already posted a sneak peek of one of the cakes that will be chosen from on my Facebook fan page. Over the next few months I will have small snippets of more choices to be offered. So stay tuned to this blog as well  (and become a fan) to see what is to come for the couple lucky enough to win. I have seen some of the items to be chosen already and I can say I wish I could vote !

Be sure to share this page with your friends who would like to enter and to like this on Facebook.

Click here for the application

and submit by mail or email (weddinggiveaway@naplesgarden.org).
*Applications must be received by no later than 11:59 p.m. on January 31, 2011 to be eligible.

Rules

And here to blog,vote and check out the garden.

* Napkins

* Wedding Website

* Save the date cards

* Thank-You Cards

* Invitations

* Favors

* Stickers

* Stamps (for thank you,save the date,invitation, paying vendors)

* Address labels

* Wine/water bottle labels

These monograms are easily interchangeableso they are also very affordable at $10.00 per. ( I gladly accept pay-pal). If you would like your own custom job, they are $30.00.  I am constantly working on designs (between holiday cards) so more designs to follow.

Next Post: Pre-made logo designs for your photography business.

Sometimes in season a sunset shoot can be trying. You and everyone else in town wants sunset photography, there will most likely be a wedding on the beach (especially on the weekend) these are all things to think about when planning the best possible time to meet. As an additional option you might consider a morning shoot instead of sunset. The colors will be different but just as lovely, blues and greens instead of oranges and reds. I have had much success with daytime beach photo shoots as opposed to nighttime. There is something to be said for being different than everyone else.

You won’t find classic backgrounds here. The same heavily manipulated and layered style as my portfolio consists of,tailored to packaged printing. Tons of package options to choose from to fit any budget. Online Galleries to be shared with friends and family and for additional purchases and specialty products like key chains, magnets, even Christmas Ornaments.

These packages and options would also be perfect for your sports team. I have playing card options as well as faux magazine covers for almost every sport you can imagine.

The more families involved the more cost-effective the process becomes.

I could spend some serious time here using a lot of ten-dollar words to describe why I think April and Amanda are so wonderful and fun to work with. That would prove nothing more than I did indeed get as high as I claim on my S.A.T’s. Instead I will show you…being a photographer and all….

Do you not LOVE these ?

I took my kids, and some good friends out to my secret weapons (locationally speaking) house for a Christmas Card photo shoot with one of the couples many amazing cars. I won’t be posting too many of my own kids because I would not want to spoil the fun of seeing them in the Christmas Cards. These are a few of my other favorites.

I don’t often do selective color anymore. (I think it’s overdone and well…..overdone) but this picture (above) called for it, I think.

I am reasonably sure that they will kill us for the above photo when they are old enough.

What do you imagine happening if everyone from flowers to cakes finds themselves equally inspired ?

The result can be no less than spectacular.

Now Offering Naples Floridas best Photo Booth !

I am Proud to offer Naples Florida’s most authentic photo booth experience. Many photographers can offer a photo booth set up, we offer the actual booth ! Many features found with us won’t be found with other companies. Options for color or classic black and white photo strips. Customized photo strips available for corporate functions or utilizing your custom wedding monogram. Flash cards with your entire events photo strips  loaded. Custom DVD slide shows of your event set to music. A photo strip guest book with every rental. Fastest photo turn around time of any photo booth in the state ! 42 seconds. MOST  IMPORTANTLY 2 Booths sent to every event ! No fear of breakdown or malfunction.

 You will need a 6′x6′ space in your venue and a table for the guest book. Approval from your wedding photographer would be appreciated. Please note many wedding contracts stipulate only one photographer may be at your function so please read the small print.

I look forward to working with the amazing team they have assembled. I hope if your planning a wedding in Naples, you would consider the Naples Botanical Garden. My husband David and I were married there yesterday years ago and it will always hold a special place in our heart.

The past year the garden has continued to grow and there are a number of amazing locations throughout the garden to stage your event. Even if you don’t have your wedding or ceremony at the garden, the location can be booked for photography. I can’t imagine a more perfect setting than that for wedding photos. We were very happy with ours……

The product photography is mine. The photography FEATURED in the products is not. These are press samples.  

Any excuse to use HDR is a good idea.

June 4th Naples Highschool will graduate Spencer Hartwell. He moves on to serve in our Army with honor. I wanted to come up with an idea to show the two faces of Spencer right now. Highschool is such a turning point for people. Your foot is half in the door of life.  Somewhere in my travels I saw this done. In the background Spencer is wearing his ARMY shirt, given to him when he enlisted. In the phone photo, the one his Dad (and Aunt) made him buy for the photo shoot.

I had a good time with Spencer and his family. I wish him all the best in the future and I sincerely thank him for his service…..These next two are simply my favorites of the night.

Top 20 Wedding Photography Mistakes

1. Not Finalizing the Wedding Day Schedule
“Talk to your photographer before finalizing the schedule for your wedding day. There is a lot to consider in terms of photographing and natural light. Certain times of day are more photogenic than others (midday sun casts harsh, unflattering shadows on the face while late day sun casts a beautifying warm glow on everyone).”

–Hillary Harvey, Hillary Harvey Photography  I agree with this, I would simply add that if you plan on a sunset wedding in Naples, make sure your standing in shadow and let me adjust for the light.

2. Not Sticking to the Finalized Schedule
“Pay attention and respect the schedule you and your photographer discuss prior to your wedding. Being an hour late can make or break your images. Don’t just assume it only takes 10 minutes!”  I have a photo I could post to prove this, but that would just be mean

–Alison Clinton, Horizon Photo

3. Letting Relatives Get in the Way
“We have a name in the industry for a guest who shows up with pro photo equipment and takes ‘unofficial wedding photos’ — we call him Uncle Bob. Uncle Bob may think he’s doing you a favor by taking more shots for the couple, but usually he just gets in the way and makes us miss our shots. Tell Bob to leave the camera at home and just enjoy his time at the wedding without working.” Good god ! I could kiss this woman for mentioning this. Please, please, please head this advice. You pay good money for us to get the shots with quality equipment and we will be responsible if we don’t. I do not however feel comfortable telling your family members to get out of my way.

– Sandra O’Claire, Eau Claire Photographics

4. Not Explaining How You Like to Look in Photos
“Beauty is really very subjective. I ask my clients to send a photo of themselves before the wedding that they like and one that they don’t.” Blegh I don’t know about this one. I can make you look lovely…trust me.

– Dorie Hagler, Dorie Hagler Photography

5. Focusing Too Much on Taking Photos
“A good photojournalist can capture the story of their day and capture some artistic portraits while keeping the time away from loved ones to a minimum.” Agree !

–Alex Fagundo, Candidly Elegant Photography

6. Not Getting a Second Shooter
“Sometimes brides want to save a little money or feel that it is too obtrusive for more than one photographer to be present on the wedding day. But consider this: The second photographer offers another unique point of view throughout the entire day that you would not have had photographed.” I use this old line all the time, “I can’t get a photo of you (first) walking down the aisle and your husbands face when he sees that magical moment at the same time.” But two of us can !

–Chris Leary, Chris Leary Weddings

7. Not Getting Help Organizing Your Guests
“Designate someone that you trust and who knows your family and friends to be in charge of organizing people for portraits. That person can gather the people needed, direct them on what shots they will be in, and then release them when they are done. It keeps things moving quickly, smoothly, and enjoyably.” <—- That right there, that’s good stuff. Makes everyone’s life MUCH easier.

–Erica Natali, Natali Photography

8. Trying to Make Things “Perfect”
“Just have fun — whether it’s getting a little cake on your face or some little detail that didn’t turn out 100 percent like you had hoped, go with it, have fun, and keep smiling. The photos will be so different if the bride is scowling at her new hubby, don’t you think?” The revenge of Bridezilla.

–Jennyfer Huff, Florida Weddings Photography

9. Skipping the “First Look”
“A ‘first look’ [aka taking your couple photos before the ceremony] is so much better than trying to rush bride and groom portraits after the ceremony — especially if your ceremony ran a little late (which most do). You end up trying to hurry up and get to the party.” Disagree…. It better to get those first look shots although I suppose there are ways to do that with you two alone I would opt for a post wedding shoot on another day. 

–Ashley Nardello, Cleopatra Photography

10. Trying to Pose
“A good photographer gives direction for a reason: to get the best moments and shots from the day. The best thing to do is relax and act naturally. Be in the moment. Be hopelessly in love with each other — the pictures will turn out smashingly!” Not sure if this one needed to be in the top 20 but ok……”Have fun! “

–Brook S. Hollis, Lucent Photography

11. Waiting Too Long to Book Your Photographer
“If you find a great photographer, book them! Good photographers book a year or more out and won’t be available forever. Nothing is more frustrating than choosing a wedding photographer and then finding out that they booked out your date a week prior.”

–Jeff Livengood, Digital Dreammakers

12. Looking at the Camera All the Time
“Some couples want candid photographs, but they always feel like they need to look up at the camera and stop what they are doing. It could be an instinct, but remember — unless the photographer asks you, try to act natural for the best journalistic shots.” I hate that term “journalistic” it is like code for profile and the back of everyone’s head. I get it, crooked and black and white and candid is fun but not the whole day. If you do want candids I would say LOOK. Look at the camera every once in a while it’s helpful.

–Dina Konovalov, A Dream Picture

13. Not Providing a List of “Don’t Takes”
“Let the photographer know before the wedding if there are certain photos you don’t like. It can be anything such as ‘I don’t like the photos you took of us not smiling’ or ‘I don’t like wide-angle close-ups; they make us look weird and fat.’ It totally throws off a photographer’s creative approach when a bride spills her feelings while you are in the zone.” although I kind of agree with this the statement seems contradictory. It’s like they said, “tell me what to do, but don’t tell me what to do.”Personally, I would like to know that you hate the jump in the air shot and you like black and white but once you pick me, you have chosen for a reason, let me do my thing.”

–Tony & Natasha, Artistique Photography Productions

14. Asking for Too Many Shots
“If clients have done their homework and have chosen an experienced and reputable wedding photographer, then chances are that photographer does not need to be provided with a two-page spreadsheet of every combination for family portraits.” I like some basis of an idea, but I don’t want it to be my bible for the day. Saying something is “can’t miss” is almost sure to make it harder. Side note: Those can’t miss times are the biggest time for Uncle Bob’s to get in the way. Would you rather me get that cake shot or Aunt Nancy and her Kodak Easy Share ?

–Millie B., The Studio Weddings

15. Not Choosing a Photographer You Connect With
“Make sure that we get along. I work with clients for sometimes two years or more. If we don’t get along, it’s going to be a very long and very bumpy ride.”

–Gillian Reinhardt, Carolina Studios

16. Skipping the Engagement Session
“Engagement sessions increase the confidence and comfort level of the bride and groom in front of the camera and allow the bride and groom to practice having their photo taken in a fun, no-stakes atmosphere. Ultimately, an engagement session will let the bride and groom see why the photographer might tell them to do something funny, and this leads to wedding day comfort and trust in the photographer.”

–Heather Cook Elliott, Heather Cook Elliott Photography

17. Not Hiring a Professional Photographer
“Choose someone who is a professional and not just anyone with a digital camera and a website. Make sure the photographer you choose has an education as a photographer, has apprenticed or interned with other photographers and paid their dues, and has the experience and ability to consistently capture the moments of your wedding no matter what situations may arise. You should expect to spend between $2,000 and $6,000 for any decent wedding photography.” This is SUCH bull !!! This is what is wrong with the whole industry. because you don’t charge as much you’re not as good ?? I am a professional photographer, sometimes I get paid, sometimes I don’t. I get to do what I love. I am constantly learning and creating new things. I work with the same stuff This guy does and I charge half of that. You have seen my stuff, and hired me because you like it. I have some credentials and awards but a painter would not need to show them to you before you purchased a piece nor would a sculptor. What makes these PRO photographers think they are so special ???

Chris & Dawndy, Bendet Photography

18. Falling for Photography Trends
“Too many times, brides fall for something trendy in photography. It is critical that these images stand the test of time and are valued for each following generation. Trends are fun but rarely last! Look for a photographer with a classic shooting style, and be wary of too much Photoshop and digital ‘tricks’ and manipulations.” See my last post to see how I feel about this guy. I have a sinking suspicion this guy has a hard time in Photoshop or is 100 years old. My Name is Nicole and I am a modern evangelist. I have a severe addiction to heavy manipulation in photos, which also happens to be popular for good reason.

–Brie Castell, Castell Photography

19. Forgetting the Details
“Think about spending a few minutes to decide what other elements are important to photograph — did your sister make special wedding favors? Are you carrying important heirlooms with you? Bring an extra invitation, and try to keep those special elements easily accessible for photos.” Ohh I love this one. I have forgotten this in the past. This is an important one people.

– Nick Coleman, Dave Cross Photography

20. Not smiling — All the Time
“Tell all of the individuals walking down the aisle to look up and smile. If they are too nervous to smile, they should at least keep their head up and stare down the aisle. This helps keep the face from forming the ‘evil double chin’ look that happens when you stare at the floor while walking!” Agree…. and if they could take a second to look right at me, that would be good too.

–Christin Berry, Blue Martini Photography

– Justine Lorelle Blanchard

Posted on: May 07, 2010

 I take pictures because I enjoy the ‘art’ of it. I am an artist at the basic level . My love of a photography comes to me in a slightly backwards way though, it  stems from my love of digital editing and computers. I enjoy the post processing. When I am setting up a shot I am thinking of the filter I will add in lightroom and the tweaks I will make in Photoshop.  When I shot that photo (above), I got a smile immediately thinking of the perfect texture and filter I knew I had in my collection. I would never have made it as a film photographer and I am honest with myself (and you) about that.

Trash the dress shoots or Mess the dress shoots. A big movement in  wedding photography over the last three or so years is a post wedding shoot. In the past Brides were worries they would dirty the dress. I can say from experience, “You wear that dress once in your life you will never wear it again.” These post wedding shoots give the bride and groom time and privacy to have fun and get the good shots. Personally I like the idea of not having ten “Uncle Bob’s” over my shoulder or IN FRONT of me…trying to get a shot . Professionally…. these shots can be far steamier and beautiful often being shot in contrastively dirty or grungy locations earning them the title of trash the dress shoots. They offer time to light perfectly and most important, you’re not missing your cocktail hour !

BYE,BYE  disposable cameras !!! Photo Booths and Polaroid guest books. I have to say I love the idea of photo booths. They make great videos when streamed together and make a nice modern approach to guest books. They replace the disposable cameras on the tables in a fun new way. They give your guests a truly immersive feeling in your wedding as being part of the day. In addition to the fact that it’s impossible to get a photo of every person at your wedding and this way you get one !

Beware of stylistic words candid, journalistic,classic. Whatever style you would like to use, be clear when discussing it with your photographer. Be aware saying you want candid shots leads to a lot of the back of peoples heads and side profiles. Saying you like photojournalistic means you may not ‘get’ everything that happens (every moment.) Saying you want traditional or classic means you will spend a lot of time posing.  Finding  a photographer whose style you like and admire and allowing them to ‘do what they do’ ensures you will be happy with the results. By the way…I am calling myself a Fashion Fantasy Photographer these days tee hee …. 

Attention Naples High Golden Eagles! Senior portrait special. $175.00 includes proof (spiral bound) proof portfolio and web gallery for prints. Ala carte print prices are as an example)* 4×6 $5.00 * 8×10 $9.00 * $10.00 each for social networking rights.Offering 96 different products from stamps to prints to canvas wraps. The latest in photo printing options metallic prints and acrylic bolt hung. REFER YOUR FRIENDS ! If two friends book you get your session FREE ! Book WITH your friend two people for $200.00.
Photoshop professional, major to minor Photoshopping available and fine art work done on request. nine29 Design Studios http://www.929designstudios.com

If you are already a fan, place a review for a special discount.

This is the large

I have also expanded to include metal prints as well. A recent trend in albums is now off the coffee table and on the wall. These are simply beyond words. I am so excited about these I can’t even tell you, you have to see for yourself.

Take THAT boring canvas

And last……(drumroll please !)…….

Virgin White

Sultry Blue

Forbidden Green

Smouldering Brown

Passion Pink

Voluptuous Black

Red light Red      

*Muah* KISS Albums

Book today space filling up quickly !!

$100.00 Includes a 45 min. session with online gallery and 25 cards.  (aditional prints can be ordered easily online) 

She works for the chamber of commerce, he is a high school football coach and I am their biggest fan. This is one for the ages folks. It was a real honor to get to chronicle it. These are a few of my favorites so far.

Did you know that the Naples High football field is made with recycled tire ? Laying down for some of these shots was like being wrapped in an elecric blanket in 90 degree weather. I would do it again in a second. These shots were worth it.

I put a few on here as I work. I have soooo many good shots this might well be my longest shoot yet.

OK, so back to work on my second set of three hundred photos !

Was not sure we would, but we saw some sun this morning. I could only shoot in one direction on the beach today. As is typical to Florida you could see where the rain started. Had we chosen the peir in lue of 7th Ave, we would have been rained out. I was optomistic that we would still get some good work done and we did. My first few set ups were ruined due to rain drops falling from the canopy above. The later ones MORE than (in my mind) make up for the first few. These children were so much fun. Good smilers, good listeners and still ready to shoot after the full hour. I think Cassidy might like me to follow her all day.

My alter ego

I always fancied myself a bit of a writer. Not one bit of a “speller” however. This predisposition to “mangle” the English language has held me back in my literary pursuits.

I find myself in need of a blog to stay ahead of the pack. It apears that you need one to maintian a steady business these day’s. I admit a part of me likes the idea of being able to publically post a few shots from each job (with permission.) And being the every ready fisher of comments, this might just work out for me.  So lets try this again. Maybe this time we can skip the spam ?