Cyber Monday Deals {North Texas Photographer}

WhoooHoooo!  Monday is the DAY for our BIG "Cyber" DEALS.  It's for one day only {Monday December 2, 2013}, so be ready to grab your DEAL of choice.



 

To grab a deal simply call the studio 972.877.4778 or email us at deanna@specialtyphotography.biz and we will take care of you.  If we do not pick up; please leave all your info and we will return calls in the order they are received.  It's a big day; so we will be close to the phone & email so that we cant take care of you asap.   Enjoy your day!

PS.... We have a brand new online gallery, so if you need your login info to select photos for your canvas or purchase, please email us and we will get that to you.

Love & Laughter -

Deanna

Happy Thanksgiving from Specialty Photography {North Texas Photographer}

Wishing you all a Thanksgiving filled with much laughter as you celebrate this time of year with family & friends.



 

Our studio will be closed Thursday November 28 - Sunday December 1, 2013.  We will re-open on Monday December 2, 2013 just in time for our fabulous CYBER Monday DEALS!  Check out the blog on FRIDAY for all the scoop.   See you then!

 

Love & Laughter -

Deanna

Teddy Bears & Toys for Christmas {North Texas Photographer}

Hi SP Friends...

It's that time of year when we are gearing up for the Fall & Christmas Season, and this year we wanted to include a little GIVING BACK into the mix of it all.    If you have a session scheduled between Now and December 15, 2013 (or you will be scheduling one)  you are welcome to participate in our Teddy Bear & Toy drive for Cook Children's Hospital.   To get involved all you have to do is bring a new Teddy Bear or unwrapped toy with you to your view & order appointment here at the studio to donate it.  You will in turn receive one of our 2014 Portrait Calendars; in digital format.  You can share your calendar on social media, email to friends & family and even print them for New Year gifts to your closest friends & family.    It's just our GIFT to YOU for being so awesome and joining us in the effort to gather lots of Teddy Bears & Toys to drop off to the hosiptal the week prior to Christmas.    It is just a great way that we can bring SMILES to the faces of children and warm a parents heart during a difficult time of facing a child's illness.

So help us get the word out.  Feel free to tweet & tag our post wherever you choose.  We would love to have lot's of awesome Teddy Bears & Toys to deliver :)



Oh!  Be sure and check out all the beautiful calendar choices you have to pick from below.

 



 

Have a blessed day!  and I will chat with you all soon.

Love & Laughter -

Deanna

Family session booked! Now... What to Wear? {Venus, Texas Family Photographer}

Hi my SP Friends...

One of the biggest concerns for family portrait sessions is... What to wear?   So, I thought I would share a few tips for you to consider when preparing your look for your upcoming family session.

• Be Comfortable...  You want to select outfits for your entire family that not only make you feel great, but that they also allow you to feel comfortable.  You want to be able to move around easily, and be comfy whether you are sitting or standing.   You will want to make sure you  like the way you look in your outfit from head to toe and from every angle.   With families we like to get many different looks and shoot from many different angles and of course to capture fun expressions and activities from you and your family.


• Coordinate, Compliment { but not so matchy, matchy}... In selecting the outfits for your entire family consider having your color scheme coordinate with each other rather than match to the point of looking like you are wearing a family uniform lol :)  You want to blend together nicely, and give a complete look to your portraits for sure, but you don't have to all wear the same thing to do that.  I find that if you start with the children's outfit first, that possibly have a pattern to them or multiple colors,  you can then layout the rest of the families look by pulling out coordinating colors.  One example would be... your daughter is wearing a floral print dress and then you pull out all the colors that are within the floral pattern to create the color scheme for the rest of the family.  Another example would be... your son and hubby are wearing the same plaid shirt and the ladies of the family are wearing colors that go well and compliment to patterns that they men of the family are wearing.    You can choose to all wear jeans, or you can mix that up too and have the ladies of the family wearing dresses and/or skirts while the men in the family are wearing jeans or slacks.    Mixing it up while blending together is the best way to go.  Colors, textures and even a few small prints always look great when the family blends together in a color scheme.


• Accessorize...  accessories are a great way to change up your looks and add a little interest to your portraits.  Consider adding  a flower to your daughter's  hair, a trendy fun hat for your son, or how about adding a scarf and/or jacket if it's cool enough outside.  


• Props... are always fun to add into a session.  Consider including vintage suitcases, old quilts (made by grandma or great grandma), old vintage chairs, or a couch out in the middle of a country field.   The main idea here is to keep it simple, fun & unique for your family session.


• Patterns... are OK!  really!!  as long as they are used in moderation.    Patterns work great if one or two people in the family are wearing them and they coordinate together well.  Consider small floral prints, small checked prints, etc.  Then pull the colors for the rest of the family out of the pattern outfits to give a complete look to your family.


• How will they be used?... think about your family images and how you will display them.   Example... if you are wanting your family portraits displayed in your family room with a framed print or a collage of canvas gallery wraps, you may want to coordinate your families look to match the decor' of your home.  However, if you are wanting whimsical fun images of your children playing, twirling & laughing to hang up in the play room or bedroom, you may want to go with a more playful clothing choice for you little ones.  

 A few things to avoid...

• Clothing with logo's, graphics, characters, and/or labels.  These always distract from the main focus of your image... the family.


• Major hair changes before your session.   It's best to not  have a drastic change in your hair style prior to your family session.  If you end up not happy with your hair you will not like your photos.  So avoid getting a new color or cut within a week or two of your session.


• Everyone wearing white shirts.   I love how white shirts and jeans look; however, in portraits the human eye will always view the lightest part of an image first and then see everything else in the image.  So if you are all wearing white, that will be the first thing you notice about the image and not the faces in the image.  Your portraits are all about YOU.


• Wearing white or light colored socks with jeans or dark colored pants.   This is usually something that people tend to overlook, but it is worth remembering.  You can have the best family portrait and be wearing those white or light colored socks with jeans and/or slacks and guess what?!  those socks are going to stick out first.  It will be distracting again from YOU, so be sure and put on dark colored socks or if it's warm outside, why not kick off the shoes & socks all together.

I hope this is helpful in helping you prepare for your upcoming family photo session.  Remember, when you book your session here at SP, I will always work with you and help you with clothing, locations, props, etc. to get the images that you are wanting for your family.  It's truly all about you and capturing the wonderful, amazing bond that you share as a family.

Love & Laughter -

Deanna

 

If these walls... {Venus, Texas Portrait Photographer}

Hi SP Friends...

Happy 4th of July!  I hope you each have a wonderful day filled with fun, laughter and good times with your friends & family.  We are truly blessed to live in the land of FREE and I am so thankful for the life that I have and for all the men and women who sacrafice so much for me to live FREE.  Thank YOU to all of you who serve our great nation.

Today I thought I would share  few of our old barn and house photos that my hubby and I have taken.  This is a project that we work on from time to time just for fun, because we love these old structures that once had life and are just sitting in a beautiful country field.   We often wonder about the life that was lived there and the family that shared so many memories in these old barns and/or homes; which always leads us to think about the stories these walls could tell if they could talk.  Such heritage and history just sitting there.   It's amazing to be able to capture them before they are destroyed and to create a beautiful piece of art out of them.

Hope you enjoy them as much as we do...























Have a wonderful and safe day celebrating!

Love & Laughter -

Deanna

I Design Baby Collage {Venus, Texas Newborn Photographer}

Hi my friends...

Today I have another new product that is sure to excite all of our expecting momma's.   Our I Design Baby Collage is a  unique and fun way for you to create your own one of kind Heirloom Keepsake that you are sure to enjoy for all time.



Isn't that adorable?!!  Now for the fun part... designing your very own I Design Baby Collage.  The first step is to select your layout design and select the photos {this is all done with my help at your view & order} however, if you have already had your view & order and you want to order one, we can design this via your online gallery.



The second step is to select the colors for your collage.   One tip would be to pick colors that blend well with the images you select and/or go with your nursery colors.  The choice is up to you.



The third step in designing your collage is to select the fun shapes that can add a nice little touch to complete the entire look of your design.



The final step is to select your size.  These fit perfectly on a 12x12, 20x20, 24x24, 30x30, 40x40.  Each I Design Baby Collage can be printed and mounted on art board for long preservation of your design.  You can then frame the image and hang on the wall or you can prop it up on an iron easel for another fantastic display.  You can also choose to print these on a Canvas Gallery Wrap as well, which would come to you ready to hang on the wall.

Hope you love this new print design!  I can't wait to see your little one featured on their very own I Design Baby Collage.

Love & Laughter-

Deanna

Kotori Jewelry - Something NEW at SP {Venus, Texas Photographer}

Hi my friends...

I am thrilled to share an awesome new product addition that we are offering here at the studio... Kotori jewelry.  What I love about Kotori Jewelry the most is that it is a fashionable way for you and I to showcase the one's we love the most... our family.  Plus... who does not like jewelry?!! Right!!

Kotori jewelry only sells to professional photographers and they totally understand the  industry, our clients and they are 100% committed to making sure that the jewelry they produce is top quality;  so that each individual piece of jewelry will not only showcase your loved one, but it will stand the test of time.  Kotori jewelry uses sterling silver and guarantee's NO yellowing on the jewelry.   Here's what they have to say about that guarantee:  "We've had our coating tested by an independent lab using an environmental chamber for the equivalent of 20 years of exposure... including UV light exposure.  Our jewelry showed absolutely no yellowing even under such intense conditions.   And, because we get our photos processed on Kodak Endura paper, you can feel confident that they are archival quality and will resist fading." - {Kotori}

Want to see all the JEWELRY options?!!!  CLICK HERE to check out the catalog.

Here are a few of my favorite's...  but, actually I love them all!

 



 

This first one is called the "Story" Necklace.  I love it!  You include your image and then you can have hand stamped charms with important dates and/or initials included into your piece.

 



This second one is called "Heirloom" Necklace and it is beautiful.  I love the simple, classic design and what a way to showcase your precious little newborn or growing child.

This third one is a leather "Wrap" bracelet.  They come in black and red and I just love the fashionable way to display one of your loved one's.  I believe our High School Seniors will love this fun new look.

I hope you enjoyed this fun new preview of a great new product coming to SP.    I look forward to seeing your images displayed in a whole new way.

Love & Laugther -

Deanna

Oh No! Where did my image go?!! {Venus, Texas Portrait Photographer}

Hi Sp Friends...

Today I thought I would share some helpful info with you when it comes to printing your images and/or how your final printed images from the studio will look when you receive them.  Many times I am asked why an 8x10 print doesn't look just like the one that you previewed here at the studio during your view & order appointment and so I thought I would take a little time today to explain Aspect Ratio to you the best way that I know how.  I am truly a visual learner {creative} and if you were to ask my family they would laugh & tell you that I am not a math person at all (as in I don't figure up numbers in my head)  I have to see it visually for me to get it.   However, in the world of photography you use math all the time and I totally understand how it all works, but explaining it is a totally different thing, so I am going to give it a shot and best of all I have photos to SHOW you (lol) so that if you are like me, you can totally get it too.

First of all let's define what Aspect Ratio is?  Aspect ratio is the relationship of an image's width to height, or its proportions.

I shoot with a canon 5D Mark II and my hubby shoots with a canon 50D and both of these camera's have a aspect ratio of 3:2.  Which means that the image is a rectangular shape and if printed on a standard 4x6 nothing gets cropped, it comes out just as we photographed it.  However, when you want to print a bigger size, something has to give.   In fact, I never just print 4x6's here at the studio as most of our clients want large prints for the walls, prints for framed gifts and of course custom canvas designs.  So we do all sorts of shapes and sizes here, which is why I felt like sharing a little more with you as to what actually takes place when we go to these larger wall prints, etc.

You see Aspect Ratio is really all about the relationship of one side of the image compared to the other side, it's not at all about the measurement of the image.   The camera's that we use here at the studio have an aspect ratio of 3:2 so let's multiply and see how it works out... Since my aspect ratio is 3:2 we are going to multiply by 2.  3x2 = 6 and 2x2 = 4  which would equal 6:4 ratio giving us a print printed as a standard 4x6 and nothing is being cropped off the image.  However, many of our clients want to print an image as a 8x10 so let's see how this works out.  We'll take 4x2 = 8 and 6x2 = 12 which would equal a 8:12 ratio giving us a print printed as an 8x12; that means that when you print that image as an 8x10 you are actually loosing 2 inches of your image.   Woweee that's when we wonder where did my image go?  That doesn't look like my preview image?

As a professional I really do try to take this into account when shooting and to allow extra room in my shot for cropping, but I also like tight shots or to capture the moment with close ups.  So sometimes the image that is selected to print as a certain size will have to be cropped.  That's when your trust in me as your photographer comes in quite handy.  You see I always check and double check all the images that we produce here at the studio before we submit them to our lab for printing.  I always print the image that best displays the emotion of the moment and showcases the beauty of you and your family.  That's what I do best and I have to say that so far in the years that we have been in business, everyone is always thrilled with their final prints.    I just wanted to help answer the question as to why your final image may look a little different in a particular printed size than it did in the preview room and you can always thank that little thing called Aspect Ratio.  Plus... this info is helpful if you have purchased your high resolution images from the studio and are having them printed elsewhere and you get them back cropped, you will totally understand why that is happening now.

Ok hopefully you go it!  but if not... here are some quick visuals for you to soak it all in and to see how the aspect ratio does indeed effect an image

 

 

 



Hope this helps my friends.

 

Love & Laughter -

Deanna

Why we are different | Venus, Texas Photographer

Hi Friends,

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Today I thought I would share a little bit about my  process here at the Studio and how that makes me different.  I hope that you feel my heart, see my passion and love the options that my studio provides for you my fabulous clients and potential clients.

The studio is indeed a Custom Photography Studio, I offer both studio sessions as well as location sessions, however, each and everyone of them is customized for YOU the client.  I am not a huge retailer that markets to the masses and provides sheets of images that many times are printed on site.  If that is what you are looking for than my studio may not be the right fit for you.  As a custom photographer I work with each individual client to set up the session date, time & location that is best for each client to yield the type of imagery that you are looking for.  I like to learn a little bit about you and/or your family, what your goal is for your session, for your images, what your budget is and to help you with clothing and so much more to insure success at each and every photo session that I offer.  It's truly all about YOU the client.  I have the passion, the vision, the experience, the art and I put all that together to work with you to create a one of kind session.    Plus I like to kick back and have some fun, who want's a stuffy rushed session that no one actually wants to be at anyways?!  Yuck!  No... you should be relaxed, laid back and know that our time together is just for you... NO rushing and fussing.

After your photo session I do have you come back into the studio the following week where I host your ordering appointment.  Again this appointment is just for YOU, there is not a line of clients waiting for the next appointment, so there is no rushing.    This is an investment, not only of your time and all the preparing for the session itself, but now you need time to plan out exactly how you want to display your favorite images.  I offer amazing Canvas Wall Galleries that are simply breath taking and will totally delight you when you have the opportunity to see the ones you love looking back at you each day from your walls.  Oh the smiles that will cross your face :)   All  products that I offer are custom designed and I love the fact that my clients get to come into the studio and watch a multi media presentation of all their images (and I get to hear the oooo's and ahhh's and see the happy tears) and then you the client get to see, feel and touch actual products and then I help you pick just the right products for your home and for your families.  It's a wonderful complete process start to finish.   I do not ever want my clients to be left with only a disc of  images and then have to figure out where to take those digital files and what to actually print from those digital files and left to wonder what the final product will look like, that is actually passing part of my job onto you the client and that just is not what I choose to do.  It's the full service that I provide to my clients that they love and appreciate, that is totally something that I believe sets me and the studio apart and makes me unique.

So if you are looking for a complete total professional service for your maternity, newborn, children, family, high school senior photo session and you love my work, then I just might be the right photographer for you!  I do offer a variety of amazing products that are sure to delight you and last a lifetime.

I truly believe with our professional lab PRINTING  the difference is clear...

You may be thinking yeah all that is cool, neat and sounds wonderful but... how are your prints any different than the local place down the road?  Below are a few of the differences when printing at our professional lab versus the lcoal one hour lab...

The Process...

Your photos will be created with printers that expose light sensitive paper that is then run through a chemical process.  The results are true photographs, not inkjet prints.  A professional lab carefully monitors this process to ensure that the photos replicate the digital negative.

One hour photo labs are designed for speed, not consistency, and the results are only as good as the person operating it at the time.

The Materials...

Your photos will be printed on high quality paper.  This paper has an increased color gamut, excellent skin reproduction, sharpness, and brilliant image quality.  As added protection all of our images are mounted to ensure a smooth framing process and also to keep your photos bend and wrinkle free.  Mounting the photos also prevents separation and sagging that sometimes occurs to images when they are framed.  We then apply a Lustre and Linen finish to protect against fingerprints and slight scratches.

One hour photo labs use near consumer level paper that doesn't hold color as well, and lower grade chemicals to keep their operating cost down.

The Oversight...

Before we send your files to our lab, we carefully overlook each one to ensure that it will print well,  and that cropping will occur appropriately for sizes that are not the aspect ratio of the original photo.

Photos that are done by the one hour lab are printed just as they are with no regards for cropping.  Exposure (the lightness of the picture) is based on an average from the batch and not per photo.

Supporting local business...

By ordering prints through your professional photographer not only ensures that you end up with a high quality product, but it also helps support me your photographer and my local small business.  Photography is a very expensive profession and we're not able to cover all of our costs (equipment, insuarnce, time - before, during , and after the session, etc) entirely with session fee's.  Ordering prints provides additional income for us to run a business, and in exchange I am happy to provide you with TOP NOTCH photographs that look exceptional and will last a lifetime.

Love & Laughter -

Deanna

 

Newborn Safety {North Texas Portrait Photographer}

Hi SP Friends...

I know that you guys see a lot of newborn portraits around on facebook, pinterest, and other social media sites.  So, I thought I would take a little time out to share our view on Newborn Safety here at SP.  I consider it a privilege to work with you and to capture this amazing new life that you have been entrusted too.  Therefore, it is of utmost importance that everything we do here at the studio is for your newborns safety and protection.  We take every precaution for safety.

Our techniques will NEVER compromise the safety and well-being of your sweet little baby.  You are always welcome to be present and to see what is happening in the studio at all times.     While we do create amazing art with your little newborn being the center of attention we take great pride in creating a SAFE environment for you and your newborn.

• We NEVER use props that are made of glass or any breakable materials.


• We NEVER use props that have any protruding sharp edges.


• If we use a basket, crate, box, etc to place your baby into a scene we always make sure that prop is properly weighted from the bottom and that it is padded, heated up and ready for your little one to safely curl up in.


• We ALWAYS have an assistant that is close by to your newborn at all times.  Your baby is NEVER left alone at any time.  We understand that all newborns have reflexes and that at any time they can lunge unexpectedly.


• Many of our more complex poses actually come from us compositing two or more images together (via photoshop) and creating the final image.  This is so that our assistant can have a supporting hand on your baby's head and body as needed.


• We realize that not every baby likes to curl and tuck in the same way, so we stay tuned to your little ones' comfort level at all time.  We will NEVER force a pose,  we prefer them to be relaxed, warm, cozy and natural.


• We watch their little limbs to make sure that circulation is not compromised for the sake of a pose.


• We keep the studio nice and warm and even pre-heat each set for your little one before they arrive.


• We clean and sanitize everything we use before & after every newborn session.

I encourage all parents to let us know if at any point you feel uncomfortable or concerned about anything during your newborn portrait session.   I  truy want you to love your Newborn Art,  I want your experience here at SP to be a happy and safe environment at all times.

Love & Laughter -

Deanna

Digital BRAGBOOKS {North Texas Portrait Photographer}

Hi SP Friends...

While at Imaging USA I found an awesome new product that I will be offering here at the studio with view & order appointments beginning the week of January 28,  2013.  I am super excited about this amazing new option to offer you my fabulous clients and I am pretty sure you are just gonna flip!

The SP Digital Bragbook is actually your very own personalized app that you can download into any smart phone and/or tablet.  I know in this day and time you simply cannot go anywhere without seeing everyone using their smart devices.  Including all of us here at SP - we are definately hooked :)  It's simply an additional way for you to quickly show off your favorite images from SP with your friends and family while you are on the go.

When you download your SP Digital Bragbook you will see an icon save right to your smart phone and/or pad.  This will have the SP logo, but the app itself will be filled with a few of your favorite images.   Each little brag book is a work of art all on it's own; created with you in mind.

Here is a view of inside the app itself.  You can actually play a slide show of the images or you can scroll through them one at a time,  just like you currently scroll on your phone photos now.  How cool is that?!  Plus...Another fabulous feature from inside the app is how you can contact the studio with just a click.  At the top of the app you can click on our phone number to call us right away or click on the mail icon and email us.    We are always within reach :)

Another awesome cool feature is that you can click SHARE right inside the app and share your images with friends & family via facebook, twitter, pinterest, text message or through email.  Makes it oh so quick and easy to share.

 The final page in each and every bragbook will have a studio referral page.  I love referrals and I want to reward you for sharing the studio with friends & family.   With each referral you and the person you refer will recieve a print credit here at the studio that can be applied to your next booking.  So, SHARE! SHARE! SHARE!

I can't wait to show you this fabulous new Digital Bragbook in person.   So, if you see me out and about stop me and ask to see our Digital Bragbook.  I will have it handy for sure :)   Are you super excited?!  Can't wait to have your very own?!  Here's how you get one....

Each time you purchase our RED LABEL print package this little gem is included or you can simply add this to any print package here at SP because it is a BONUS BUY.    So, this awesome new product is available to you when you purchase any print package here at the studio.   Yea!

Enjoy!  More new stuff is coming!  So, stay tuned friends!

Love & Laugther -

Deanna

Happy Thanksgiving {North Texas Photographer}

Small Business Saturday {North Texas Portrait Studio}

Hi SP Friends...

I am delighted to share with you our plans for Small Business Saturday.  Check out the deal and make plans now to stop by and tour the studio and chat with us.  We would love to see you.

Between Black Friday and Cyber Monday sits Small Business Saturday®, a day dedicated to helping small businesses and their communities. We at Specialty Photography are proud to take part in Small Business Saturday this year and we want to encourage you to Shop Small® with us on Saturday November 24.

On Small Business Saturday, we are excited to offer you 50% off any session that is booked on this one day. That makes any portrait session just $49 and yes you may use your session in 2013; you simply have to book it on Saturday November 24th to take advantage of this deal.

Visit ShopSmall.com to learn about other ways to get involved and support your favorite small businesses. Also, don’t forget to “Like” and recommend us on Facebook at facebook.com/specialtyphotography!

To book your session you can call the studio at 972.877.4778, email us at deanna@specialtyphotography.biz or you may stop by the studio from 10am - 3pm and book on the spot. We will have some yummy treats for those that stop by and tour the studio. We would love to see you, so make plans now to stop by.

Thank you for supporting Small Business Saturday 2012.

Love & Laughter -

Deanna

Specialty Photography's FAQ's {North Texas Custom Portrait Studio}

Hi Friends...

HaPpY  mOnDaY!!   I hope you each had a fabulous weekend :)

I thought I would share our FAQ's with you today, as we get questions about these things often.   This page is actually located on the bottom of our blog page and on our website under the "Details" tab.   Feel free to visit it often, as we try to keep this updated with current policies and helpful information for clients.  

I am ready to book my session, what do I need to do now? Awesome! You can call the studio, Monday - Friday to book your session 972.877.4778. Have your calendar ready so we can schedule your portrait session as well as your view & order session.

What payment methods do you accept? cash, check, visa, mastercard, discover & american express.

Do you photograph sessions in a studio or on location? SP actually does both. Our studio is located on our personal property behind our home. Our metal barn/building is newly remodeled for our camera room, dressing suite, prop storage and waiting area. Plus, we have 4 acres of land that provide many creative outlets for shooting outdoors at our studio. We also shoot many sessions on location throughout the DFW area. We work with each client to make sure their goals are being met for each and every session.

Do you offer Digital Images where I can print my images myself? Yes, we offer digital images that can be purchased on a individual basis (fee per file). We also have a couple of collections that offer a few digital images in them.

What if I need to reschedule my session? We totally understand that things happen sometimes and appointments need to be rearranged. If you need to reschedule we just ask that you give us a 48 hour notice and go ahead and reschedule your appointment. While our session fees are non-refundable, you may use it for a one-time reschedule.

When do I pay my session fee and what does this cover? Your full session fee is due when you book your appointment. Your session fee covers the time and talent of the photographer, our time in the studio to professionally prepare your images and your view and order session. The session fee is non-refundable, but can be applied towards a rescheduled appointment.

Can I have my items shipped to me? Yes, of course. However, all shipping and handling charges for your order will be added to your invoice.

When do I get to see the images from my session and place my order? The most important decisions in the portrait process occur during your view & order session. We take great pride in providing our clients with a fun and interactive way to place your order. When you schedule your portrait session, we will also schedule your view & order session for appoximately 7 days after your portrait session. It is very important that all decision makers be present during this time, as this is the time where your final decisions will be made on which images you are going to purchase. Our ordering sessions generally take about 1.5 to 2 hours (sounds like a long time, but it goes by so quickly). At your view and order session we will show you a video of all your images and then go through the images one by one and help you select your favorite images. (all images are projected on a large screen for your viewing) At this point we will work with you to select wall images, gift images, books, frames, etc. We have many collections and bonus items that we offer clients during this session.

How long does it take for me to get my order? Orders are generally ready to pick up at the studio within 2 weeks of your order date. However, if you have some custom design work that is going to be taking place, it can take as long as 3 to 4 weeks. We always send out a proof to you via email for custom work and you have to sign a print approval form, before we can order. So sometimes, this is a little more time consuming.

When is payment due for my order? At the time your order is placed. We do offer payment plans, with 50% of your order being due at the time of your order. Orders are non-refundable once the 50% payment has been received.

How long do you keep my files at your studio? We keep all purchased images/files for one year from the session date in our current computer system & backup system. All unordered images/files will be deleted from our *system 30 days after the online gallery posting. *once removed from our computer system your ordered images are stored on a DVD and filed away for up to 5 years.

What if I want to make a copy of my images? All images remain the property of Specialty Photography and are protected by federal copyright laws. Duplication in part or whole (wheather by scanning or reprinting) is prohibited and will be prosecuted by law.

What is a Wall Collection? These are collections of images that truly make a statement on any wall. It's art for your home or office. Usually these are created using our Canvas Gallery Wraps or Print Wraps, but you can select to do the same groupings with framed portraits as well. We offer many groupings and layout designs that we share with you at your view and order session.

Do you offer custom framing? Absolutely! Specialty Photography offers a variety of custom frame options for you to select from. SP is also a authorized dealer for Organic Bloom frames and we have many wonderful unique options for you to choose from.

Love & Laughter -

Deanna

Happy Birthday to me...

Hello SP Friends...

Last week my hubby and I celebrated our birthday!  Yep!!  You got it... we celebrate the same birthday!!  So, if you know me you know that I have been looking for a fabulous new addition to the studio in the form of a old truck or car that I can use for photo shoots.  We are always on the look out and well my fabulous hubby surprised me with a 1948 Plymouth (all rusty with glass broken) which is totally what I have been wanting.  Whew!!  he DID GOOD!!!

As my car was being delivered I grabed my camera and headed outside to watch it land to it's new resting place at the studio.  Here are just a few of my favorite shots...



The front and side view of the car



The car arriving to the studio and my hubby working to get it removed from the trailer and onto the ground.



just a few of the details...The dash board, the engine, and the trunk.    I simply LOVE IT!!  Thank you honey!!!  I can't wait to use this in a photo shoot :)

We can tell that the plymouth was blue back in it's prime, some of that original color still shows through on the inside of the car.   We have all the original hub caps and the first project is going to get some tires for the car and get those hub caps in place.  I don't plan on doing to much to the old beauty, as I totally love the rust and character that this old car has as it is.

Have a fabulous Labor Day weekend :)

 

Love & Laughter -

Deanna

 

 

 

God Bless the USA! finding ways to give back {North Texas Wedding & Portrait Photographer}

As we celebrate our nation’s independence, it’s important to remember the service men and women and their families who sacrificed to give us our home and our freedom. It’s hard to choose just one charity that serves veterans, as there are many wonderful organizations out there who do a variety of essential work for veterans. However, among the good, there are also some that do not do what they claim.

[embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LSarhZpnMs[/embed]

Consider this as you decide how to give back.

Sandra Block of USA Today covers a lot of tips for researching a veterans charity before you donate to avoid scams:

Click here to read Sandra Block's article

Here are some awesome charities, all of which received a four-star rating from charitynavigator.org:

Operation Homefront
http://www.operationhomefront.net/

Hope for the Warriors
http://www.hopeforthewarriors.org/

Homes for our Troops
http://www.homesforourtroops.org/site/PageServer

Canine Companions for Independence
http://www.cci.org/site/c.cdKGIRNqEm...dependence.htm

God Bless the USA, and God Bless our brave veterans!  THANK YOU to all the men and women, along with their families, who serve and protect our coutry each and every day so that we can all live in FREEDOM.

Happy 4th of July!  Enjoy your day :)

Love & Laughter -

Deanna

Wall Galleries and the View & Order process

The best thing about being a professional photographer is providing my clients with Portraits of their loved ones, you know the ones, the photos that make your heart melt.  That photo that simply puts a smile on your face because you are looking right into the soul of the person you love so much.  Yep - that's the one... that is my goal, to get those images up on the wall, on the lamp table, and even on your desk at work so that YOU can enjoy them daily.

One of the ways that I work with my clients to provide them with spectacular images for their walls, is to hold a view and order session following their portrait session (scheduled one week after the portrait session).   If you are a current client you are already aware of this process, but if you are new (or it has been a while since you have been in) you can get a little glimpse into what we provide our clients.

The View & Order session is scheduled at the same time that I book your portrait session.  At this session I show clients a multi-media presentation of all their session images, all set to music.  I simply love this part, because this is the first time they get to see their images and I truly enjoy seeing their expressions and listening to the family interaction that takes place here.  It's a priceless moment!  That's also why you are not seeing sneak peek's on our studio facebook page and blog anymore, because I was totally missing out on this expereience with my clients.  However,  You will see session highlights on all our social media pages once the view and order session is completed.

Ok onto the view and order process... after the multi-media presentation I show images two by two and work with each client to select their favorite images.  Once we have the favorite images selected, we then work with the client to create just the right collection of images for the home, office, friends & family so that each client is sure to get the images that they want and need.

To help our clients to be prepared for this session, we provide a Portrait Planning Guide immediately following the photo session, so that they are better prepared for selecting their images once they arrive at the view and order session.  The guide gives a few visuals of Wall Galleries and a few helpful tips to consider prior to coming into the view and order session.  One of my favorite parts of the Portrait Planning Guide is that each client has a place to write down a few locations in their home that they might like to display portraits.  The worksheet has space for the client to list the rooms they want to place portraits in, available space for the portraits, and then leaves a space for them to write down the image # once they are at the view and order session.  Makes it super easy start to finish.

One of the NEW options for our clients during the view and order session is Wall Galleries.  I simply LOVE these and can't wait to help clients create amazing pieces of art for their home using their session images.  These are going to look amazing!!  What I love about the Wall Galleries is that I can simply slide client images into them during the view and order process and they have the freedom to change them around until they get just the right look.  (All of this is done on a large projection screen) Plus... clients will be able to see what their images will look like Framed, as Canvas Gallery Wraps, or as Standard Mounted Prints.  Each one gives a clear perspective on the space it will take on the wall and what it will actually look like all together.

Here are a few samples of Wall Galleries for a Living Room (we have other room views too)...



 



 



 



 



Whew.. aren't those awesome!  I hope you have some creative juices flowing of what you can do with your images here at SP.  I look forward to working with each and every client to put images on the wall that bring Joy to their heart and a big ole' Smile to their face.

Until next time...

Love & Laughter -

Deanna

Copyright - It's the Law

Hi Everyone -

I ran across this valuable information written by a fellow photographer Marinda Fowler and I thought that this would be great to share with my clients.  Most of the time when a client violates a copyright law it is purely by not knowing what they can and can't do with a a copyrighted image.  So, bear with me as we dive right in.  Grab that cup of coffee or diet coke now.

What is copyright?

The U.S. Constitution and the Federal Copyright Act give "copyright" protection to "authors" for their "origianl works," such as photographs.

What does that mean?

Simply that the law protects the original works and gives the exclusive rights to reproduce them to the author.  When the copyright has been violated, the author can pursue legal action and the offender can be held liable and fined.

So, what are the rules regarding the prints I purchased from my professional photographer?

Here are just a few examples of things that you may not do with your professional photos:

• Scan them - for any reason


• Copy them


• Reprint them


• Crop watermarks out of photos and repost them on the web


• Edit them - in any way


• Take pictures of your printed professional photos (especially with your cell phone) and post them on the web


• Throw dars at them.  Ok, fine.  Do it if you must!

Well, why can't I scan them?  The photos are of me and my family?

While the photos might be of you, they are not yours.  The images belong to your professional photographer; who owns the copyright.  Granted you may have purchased a print of the image, and you are encouraged to display that image and enjoy it.  However, it is not at your disposal to make copies of them by scanning or any other means.  It's actually against the law.

Also, most professional photographers like to maintain quality control over their work.  There is a large qualty difference between a scanned photo and the one that your photographer creates and sizes for use on the web.  We do not like to see our work all distorted and wonky because it has been scanned.

What's the big deal?

The big deal is that your professional photographer works extremely hard at creating the beautiful images that you see.  Everything from lighting, posing, and post-processing goes into one single image.  In that regard, your photographer will price their work to maintain a profitable business.  When clients start scanning images and reprinting at home or worse, local one-hour labs, they have basically stolen the ability for the photographer to make a profit from that image.  Since selling their artwork is how professional photographers earn a living, it tends to make us unhappy when clients steal images from us.

Aunt Susie saw my photo and just wants to have one little copy of it.  Now what?

Great!  Your photographer will be thrilled to help you get one little copy of that photo for Aunt Susie.  It's always a great thing to hear that your family and friends love our work!

I bought the disc with the printing rights.  What can't I do with these images?

On the print release form, there will be instructions on what you can and cannot do with the images contained on the disc.  However, just for the sake of education, I'll give you a quickie list of those things.

Things you can do:

• make prints for personal use


• make greeting cards for personal use


• make photo books or photo gifts for personal use


• upload the images in the WEB folder onto the web to share with your family and friends (however, please do not remove the watermark)

Things you cannot do:

• enter the photos into contest - nope, not even those "cute baby" contests


• post full-size non-watermarked images on the web


• alter the images - part of the photography experience with your professional photographer will include the photographer's time and talent in editing/processing your images.  If you do not like the style in which your images were processed, it might be time to look for a different photographer.  I'm just sayin'

What about the images on your blog and facebook?

The images on my blog are meant to be enjoyed and viewed.  If you would like to share the images on my blog, please do so.  All you have to do is share the link (URL) with your family and friends.  Or, you can simply find the share buttons included in each post and share them anywhere you'd like.

The images on facebook are also meant to be enjoyed and viewed.  I welcome and encourage you to tag yourself in the images on facebook or share the link to the images.  I also welcome and encourage you to use the images on facebook as your profile photos as long as you do not remove the watermark in the cropping process.  To avoid removing the watermark, simply drag the cropping bars all the way to the edge of the photo.  Easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy!

Okay, I get it.  I might have violated your copyright policy.  Now what?

Hey, don't sweat it!  We all make mistakes and I'm sure that you did not intend to do so.  However, now you know.  I simply ask you to make an attemt at rectifying the situation.  If you've scanned images and posted them on the web, please take them down.  If you need a watermarked copy of the images to use on the web, please contact me immediately and we can get that taken care of.

And please, please, please....promise to never do it again!  xoxo

For more information on the issue of copyright, please take a moment to read through this FAQ... http://www.photolaw.net/faqs.html

Love & Laughter -

Deanna

*This Copyright info is listed on our Blog homepage on the bottom right - Feel free to share.

Specialty Photography FAQ's

Hi everyone!  I hope your week is going fantastic - I am having a great one!! I thought today I would share our New FAQ area that is located here on our blog with you.  You can always find these listed in a link at the bottom right hand corner of the blog.  This area will stay up to date with all the little FAQ's that we receive here at SP.  I decided to put together this list to help you our current clients out, but to also help those of you who may be considering using our studio.  I know that it is helpful to simply find answers to your questions ahead of time.  Feel free to call me or email me anytime you have a question about using our studio 972.877.4778 or deanna@specialtyphotography.biz.

FAQ:

I am ready to book my session, what do I need to do now? you have a couple of choices.  You can click the link above that says "Book My Session" and complete the whole process online or you can call the studio, Monday - Friday to book your session 972.877.4778

What payment methods do you accept? cash, check, visa, mastercard, discover & american express.

Do you photograph sessions in a studio or on location? SP actually does both.  Our studio is located on our personal property behind our home.  Our metal barn/building is newly remodeled for our camera room, dressing suite, prop storage and waiting area.  Plus, we have 4 acres of land that provide many creative outlets for shooting outdoors at our studio.    We also shoot many sessions on location throughout the DFW area.  We work with each client to make sure their goals are being met for each and every session.

Do you offer Digital Images where I can print my images myself? Yes, we offer digital images that can be purchased on a individual basis (fee per file). We also have a couple of collections that offer a few digital images in them.  *minimum print purchase required before making digital file purchases.

What if I need to reschedule my session? We totally understand that things happen sometimes and appointments need to be rearranged.  If you need to reschedule we just ask that you give us a 48 hour notice and go ahead and reschedule your appointment.  While our session fees are non-refundable, you may use it for a one-time reschedule.

When do I pay my session fee and what does this cover? Your full session fee is due when you book your appointment.  Your session fee covers the time and talent of the photographer, our time in the studio to professionally prepare your images and your view and order session.  The session fee is non-refundable, but can be applied towards a rescheduled appointment.

Can I have my items shipped to me? Yes, of course.  However, all shipping and handling charges for your order will be added to your invoice.

When do I get to see the images from my session and place my order? The most important decisions in the portrait process occur during your view & order session.  We take great pride in providing our clients with a fun and interactive way to place your order.  When you schedule your portrait session, we will also schedule your view & order session for appoximately 7 days after your portrait session.  It is very important that all decision makers be present during this time, as this is the time where your final decisions will be made on which images you are going to purchase.  Our ordering sessions generally take about 1.5 to 2 hours (sounds like a long time, but it goes by so quickly).  At your view and order session we will show you a video of your all your images and then go through the images one by one and help you select your favorite images. (all images are projected on a large screen for your viewing)  At this point we will work with you to select wall images, gift images, books, frames, etc.  We have many collections and bonus items that we offer clients during this session.

How long does it take for me to get my order? Orders are generally ready to pick up at the studio within 2 weeks of your order date.  However, if you have some custom design work that is going to be taking place, it can take as long as 3 to 4 weeks.  We always send out a proof to you via email for custom work and you have to sign a print approval form, before we can order.  So sometimes, this is a little more time consuming.

When is payment due for my order? At the time your order is placed.  We do offer payment plans, with 50% of your order being due at the time of your order.    Orders are non-refundable once the 50% payment has been received.

How long do you keep my files at your studio? We keep all files in our current computer system, and our digital backup system,  for all sessions during any given calendar year.  At the end of each calendar year, your images are archived on DVD and filed away for safe keeping.  We do clean off our computer system each and every year.

What if I want to make a copy of my images? All images remain the property of Specialty Photography and are protected by federal copyright laws.  Duplication in part or whole (wheather by scanning or reprinting) is prohibited and will be prosecuted by law.

What is a Wall Collection? These are collections of images that truly make a statement on any wall.  It's art for your home or office.  Usually these are created using our Canvas Gallery Wraps or Print Wraps, but you can select to do the same groupings with framed portraits as well.  We offer many groupings and layout designs that we share with you at your view and order session.

Do you offer custom framing? Absolutely!  Specialty Photography offers a variety of custom frame options for you to select from.  SP is also a authorized dealer for Organic Bloom frames and we have many wonderful unique options for you to choose from.

Until next time...

Love & Laughter -

Deanna