Julie Afflerbaugh Photography

Johnna and Ian {Part 2} Engagement Photos in Boulder

 This shoot reminded me again the importance of letting go of thoughts and ideas in order to really BE CREATIVE.  The nature of creativity is that it has to happen spontaneously.  Every shoot offers new surprises, even if the location is an old favorite. But this location was new to me and I really had no idea what to expect.  And I had never shot horses before! What a dream. I love the way being with the horses allowed everyone to be even more vulnerable and present. Some of my favorite shots of the day are of Johnna with horse.  

 When we got to these last shots under the stormy sky, Johnna and Ian were so unguarded and you can see it in their expressions - they're relaxed, they're enjoying the experience together, their kisses are authentic, the way they touch each other is authentic. It was a photo shoot AND it was a genuine experience for all of us, there was nothing contrived about it.  Johnna and Ian, thank you, from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to be on this adventure with you.  I am in awe. 

 

 

Johnna and Ian {Part 1} Engagement Photos in Boulder

On every shoot for me there is an element of trusting the process to unfold... letting it be an experience. At first we are all kind of nervous. Johnna giggles and asks if everyone is this awkward at first. Yes.  But I always keep shooting even though I know I won't keep any of those first frames. Slowly the nerves begin to settle. I know the moment it happens during this shoot.  I ask Johnna to twirl under the tree and I actually see her personality come to life. She is so lovely.  And the way Ian is completely delighted by her...it is so endearing. After awhile, I ask if they want to wade in the river. Of course. How could you not?  It is so unbelievably beautiful. So beautiful, I just keep yelling.  Like nothing I've ever photographed before. But they can't hear me over the sound of the water!  This is where is all starts to unravel...all the trying to look or act a certain way.  It's just love now.  Love and inspiration. 

 

Photo Camp Friday- Travel Photography

Several folks I know are gearing up for summer travel abroad which makes me dream of my next destination. Perhaps Scotland?  My cousin is going to Italy with her husband (and leaving the kiddos at home!) and wondered if I had any tips for travel photography. I thought this may be a fun Photo Camp topic since traveling is such a great time to see things in a new way and practice technical skills.  Here's what I came up with:

1) BE A DOCUMENTARIAN

Travel photography is more interesting if you think of it as storytelling.  Try to document the story of your trip through the small details.  Sometimes one can get so fixated on trying to photograph a big landscape or building that we miss the cool little stuff.  For example, my husband had the idea to photograph people's shoes in Italy.  If you've been there, you know why. 

2) LANDSCAPE BASICS

When you are drawn to photographing a particular landscape (eg. the rolling vineyards), try to take a drive or a walk in the evening with your camera.  Stop all the time and take photographs.  As you know, the light at dusk is just gorgeous and it will be well worth making the intentional effort to get out at that time.  You may want to carry a small tripod with you for these shots.  You will want to set your aperture to f/11 or even f/16 to get everything in focus, so your shutter speed will get pretty slow (too slow to hand hold without shake).  That's why landscape photographers always have tripods!  If a tripod isn't an option, use the top of your car and if the technical stuff is too overwhelming, use your landscape setting on your camera.  Make sure you focus about 1/3 through the frame (ie not the tree right in front of you)

3) EMBRACE THE TOURIST WITHIN

Have fun and shoot a lot.  Don't be afraid to "look like a tourist."  You'll be bummed later that you didn't just have your camera hanging around your neck at all times.  Ask people if you can photograph them (respectfully, of course).  Get in close at markets, street shows and tours and let yourself BE a photographer. 

4) FIND A LOCAL 

Whenever I travel, I try to ask the locals as many questions as possible.  They will tell you where to get the best meal or find the hidden gems.  You may find that getting off the beaten track a bit really inpsires your creativity. Don't be shy!

5) MAKE IT YOUR OWN

I'm going to add this last one because it's something that I've been thinking a lot about myself.  Let yourself be drawn to the visuals that you personally connect with.  Let go of how you think someone else would photograph Italy and instead make your photographs your own.  Even if that means you take shots of random strangers and details!  It's your story.  

Happy Travels!

{All about Charlie} Boulder Kids Photography

The Kennedy family are so much fun!  When big brother Jack was 3 months, I starting documenting his family.  I photographed his major milestones through the first 18 months.  Then sweet Charlie was born and now it's twice the fun!  This was Charlie's second "Inch by Inch" session, so he was the star of the show, but I have this special bond with jack now, so I couldn't help grab a few shots of him as well.   Sometimes a session like this can be challenging (with two little guys at such different, yet active ages) but we just played and sang songs and picked dandelions and nobody complained a bit. Phew. 

All natural maternity session {Boulder, Colorado}

I feel lucky to have met Miranda and her family who recently joined our babysitting co-op!  From what I learned about Miranda, this mountain location outside of Boulder seemed the perfect place to document her pregnancy (just one day before her due date!)  She is clearly a natural beauty who shines in front of the camera.Because she was so relaxed, I gave very little direction and we captured very authentic images. I am honored that I will be able to photograph the family over the next year as part of an Inch by Inch package.  Newborn photos coming soon! Miranda gave birth to her new baby just a couple of days ago.  Congratulations and blessings to you all! 

 

 

{Sweet Evelyn} Boulder Baby Portraits

The Munson Family invited me into their home to document how much life has changed since Evelyn was born 4 months ago.  It's really a treat to meet people in their own homes for portraits, as I find people relax into the session so much faster.  Babies are comfortable and usually able to "hang" with photos for a bit longer.  Evelyn is such a happy baby and her parents are so delighted in her every move.  What a joy to photograph that love!

 

{Baby Andrew} Boulder Newborn Photography

Thank you sweet Turner family for visiting me in the studio and allowing me to be a part of this lovely little time.  I truly enjoyed our chat while we waited patiently for Andrew to find his way to dreamland. You are such calm, present parents.  Andrew is a lucky boy.  

Rhubarb + Inspiration

Recently, I went location scouting.  As a photographer, this is something you would think I do all the time.  But, actually, I don't really ever do it.  I mean, I notice light all the time, everywhere.  But, on this particular day, I got in my car, with no destination (and the company of a good friend) and went to see what I could see.  That was my only intention.  And I fully expected to have nothing to show for it...that was a big part of the practice for me. No outcome. But, in the end, I had found something unique.  A little peice of colorado soil that spoke to me.  So, a week later I went back. And this time I mustered my 20 seconds of courage and drove up the long drive to ask the owner if I could take some photographs. Not only did I meet some lovely new friends (one who happens to be a photographer and a lover of film), but I had permission to use their land.  AND as a bonus I came home with a huge bunch of fresh rhubarb.  There will be another story coming soon about the shots I took on this gorgeous land I discovered.  But for now, here is the cake I made with the rhubarb.  I made extra rosemary caramel sauce to share with my new friends.

The recipe for this delicious rhubarb upside down cake and rosemary carmel sauce is from Sunset Magazine. Find the recipe here:

http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/rhubarb-upside-down-cake-with--50400000110971/

Maternity Photos- Boulder

What a perfect setting for a spring maternity session.  Willow trees are perhaps my favorite tree...hemlocks are right up there too.  I remember playing under the willow trees as a kid and feeling like I had escaped to a magical place.  This session has so much sweetness and genuine love...and the light...and the willow branches...magic, right?

Lisa and Her Guitar

For 15 years, this beautiful woman and talented musician has been a friend in my life.  I shared a house with her during an incredibly pivotal time in my life, she sang at my wedding, and by some magic we both ended up in Boulder many years later.  Our friendship has rolled with the tides as all bonds do..taking us closer and then farther apart.  But, on this particular monday in march, I believe our deep friendship and knowing of each other stirred in us both something wonderfully creative.  The session became about much more than shooting an album cover.  I am so excited for Lisa to be re-emerging in the world of music after a long hiatus and I encourage you all to check her out.  http://www.facebook.com/LisaHunterProfile

Registration Now Open for Spring Photo Camp

Join other Moms who share a love of photography for a weekend filled with connection, creativity and learning.  In the comfort of Julie’s Boulder studio, you will boost your confidence with handling your SLR digital camera, develop an eye for creative composition, and master a few simple “professional” tricks.  The goal: Take photos you LOVE.

Itinerary

Friday, June 8 - 6 to 9 p.m. 

Moms’ night out: This is your time to learn the basics and gather tips from a pro.  Enjoy wine and cheese with other Boulder area moms while you get camera savvy. 

Saturday, June 9 - 9 - 11 a.m.

Mamas bring the kiddos (6 months and older) for a fully interactive learning experience.  While the little ones are playing, you get to practice your new skills on the subjects you love most! Julie will demonstrate how to use available light, offer tools for engaging your subject, and provide one on one support.

Details:

 

Cost: $160 per person

{Includes Friday and Saturday sessions, kids’ activities on Saturday and refreshments.}

Participants must bring a digital SLR camera or point and shoot with full manual capabilities.

Both sessions are held at the Julie’s Studio: 1012 Hawthorn Ave., Boulder CO 80304

Happy Camper:

"Photo Camp is exactly what I needed to feel more comfortable with my camera. As a mom I have little time to read manuals or books (other than parenting ones!). I left Photo Camp feeling like I had gained the skills to take my photography to the next level and to actually capture those moments of my kids that I'd been trying so hard to capture before."  

 For Registration call 303-704-9999. Pre-payment is required to hold your spot at camp. Sign up with a friend and you BOTH receive $25 off your registration. 

 

Photo Camp: Quiet Moments

You can probably tell there is a theme to my winter shooting: Quiet.  There is so much opportunity in the warmer months for capturing exuberance, but in the winter I am drawn to the more this:

 I find the more I can shoot while my subject doesn't know I am there, the more success I have capturing the shot I really want.  That means a lot of times the subject isn't even facing the camera.  But look at how sweet his little feet are tucked up under his bum.  Who needs a smile when you have that?  Give it a try.  Do a little sneeking around and see what you find. 

Technical Notes: Even though this post is really intended to encourage you to pay attention to the quiet moments in your children's lives, I recently had a question on my facebook page about ISO, so I'll stick a bit in here about that.  Liam's bedroom only has natural light from the one window in the background.  If I had shot this in AUTO, my flash would have certainly gone off, so I turned off the flash and bumped the ISO up to 1000, giving me enough light to keep my shutter speed above 1/100.  

Couture Colorado- Featured Wedding

What a lovely thing to see our images published on Couture Colorado this week.  Emily and Jim's Frog Belly Farm wedding in Boulder was just too sweet.  Keep an eye out for new Frog Belly Farm marketing materials which will also feature our images. Fingers crossed for more farm weddings in the near future! 

If you haven't been over to peek at Couture Colorado, what are you waiting for? It's not just for weddings, you know.

http://www.couturecolorado.com/wedding/2012/03/09/old-macdonald-had-a-wedding/

Photo Camp: Backlight Before and After

Learning to shoot in backlight, in my humble opinion, is key to creating interesting photographs.  In order to shoot in backlight, you first have to learn to see it! So, here is your homework assignment for the weekend: Pay attention to how light is falling on your subject.  Where do you see highlights?  Where do you see shadows?  

In this image, can you see the highlights on top of Liam's head?  This is backlight.  Now do you also notice that his face is in shadow?  Sometimes, as the photographer, you may decide that you like the feeling the shadows evoke and so you'll choose to keep your exposure kind of dark.  

But what if you wanted the face to be brighter?  Lots of times people ask me why the faces are dark in their pictures.  If the sun is behind your subject, your camera's meter will expose for the highlights, leaving the face dark.  But, if you can master using your camera's exposure compensation scale, you can outsmart your camera and CHOOSE to have the faces brighter.  Of course, this means that the highlights will be brighter too.  We call this "Blowing out the hightlights".  So now you can sound cool the next time you are out snapping pics.  

"Check me out, I'm using my exposure compensation scale to blow out the highlights!"

Take a peek at your manual to help you with the exposure compensation scale...or come to Photo Camp this spring.  Here's the gist:

Once you locate the scale and learn which dial on your camera controls it, you can add more light or less light to your exposure just by rolling the dial in one direction or the other.  You will need to take some time to get used to using this feature.  As a place to start, the shot below was overexposed by 1 stop.  That means I rolled the dial to +1 on my exposure compensation scale.  {Note: On most cameras you will need to switch into Program mode or Aperature Priority mode to use the exposure compensation scale.  It is not available in full AUTO mode.}

Cool, huh?  Neither of these images were worked on in Photoshop.  This is the beauty of learning to work with backlight.  Try it.  And be sure to post questions here! 

 

 

The Rhythm of a Year

Liam and I have been attending a mama and toddler class (morning glory) at blue sky for about a year and both of us have fallen in love...with the circle of friends, the warm and cozy space, the rhythm and ritual, and the playful spirit.  I do not consider myself a writer and it is at times like this when I wish I had that gift.  The experience at Blue Sky is so rich and sweet and thoughfully directed (by the lovely Doreen and Kimmerie) that I wish I could describe it for you.  Instead, I will take some words from the philosophy written by the owner, Mindy.  Liam will be in Mindy's class in the fall.  I am so grateful that his first days at school will be filled with the tenderness and creativity of this incredible woman.  

"Each Season has its mood, which the child energetically mirrors. The busyness of Harvest, the inwardness of Winter, the antsiness of Spring all find their expression through story, song, and meaningful work. In the Fall, the wheat is threshed, winnowed, and ground into flour for the baking of the Harvest Loaf. A golden sword is cut, hammered, and rasped to bring the last rays of the Summer Sun deep into the approaching dark of Winter. Each child makes their own lantern to house a spark of dwindling light. A Festival of the Renewal of the Light is celebrated at the Solstice with our Spiral Garden Ceremony. Winter finds us building fires and dipping candles. We wash, dye, card, and spin a wool fleece into yarn for our finger knitting, felting, and weaving projects. In Spring, we live in the garden: planting, weeding, composting, and investigating all of Mother Earth’s helpers."

And a few photos too:

Photo Camp- How to make a photo wall

Happy Friday!  If you are looking for a project this weekend...I've got just the thing.  We've been moving furniture around in our house since the remodel which means I had to re-hang my family photo wall AGAIN. In the past this has been a big pain and I know my clients struggle with this, too.  So, I pulled together some step by step instructions to make the job easier.  The great thing about this method is that you can create your photo wall without pictures or frames, so if you're not sure yet how big the frames need to be, this will help you decide. 

Materials:

Newspaper or butcher paper, Scissors, Pen, Ruler, Painters Tape, Pictures and Frames (optional for the first two steps), Hammer and nails.

Step 1:  Estimate how many pictures you want to hang and the sizes of the frames.  Use your ruler and measure and cut templates out of newspaper or butcher paper.  

Step 2: Hang your templates on the wall with painters tape and tinker around with the layout.  (This part took me a awhile.  I actually left them up overnight and came back to look at it again in the morning.  I chose to have my frames be about 2.5 inches apart and I tried to keep this consistent around the layout. 

Tip: If you know what pictures and frames you are using, it's helpful to mark on the templates which is which.  For example: "4x6 horz, white frame, grandpa and ryan"

Step 3: Once you have the layout how you want it, you will start nailing pictures to the wall one at a time.

With each frame, you will need to measure the distance from the top of the frame to the hook.  Use this measurement to make a mark on your template on the wall.  This is where your nail will go.  Hammer the nail in exactly at your mark.  Remove the paper and hang the picture.  If your frame requires two nails, you will need to make two marks and use a level to ensure the picture will hang straight. 

Voila. One down.  Repeat the process for all the pictures you want to hang.   

Note about leveling:  Using the templates allows you to line the frames up without using a level.  However, if you are using all the same size frames and you want the tops to line up exactly, I would reccomend using a level on the templates to make sure they are lined up right.  

Feel free to post questions here and I will try to help.  

 

Oh Ada!

These images just make me happy!  Liam is lucky he'll get to grow up being pals with Ada. She's so much fun! 

Photo Camp Friday

Slowing Down 

I picked a topic for today that I have been working on myself for quite some time.  On the particular day these images were shot, I actually made it my intention to slow down and just notice.  I wasn't striving for to compose a perfect image or chasing liam's every expression.  I was just walking and seeing.  Winter is such a perfect time to try this exercise because everything is so still and quiet.  I find it easier to stay present and take in the little details.  And since so much is dormant, your eyes get to work a little harder at finding signs of life.  

One way to open your eyes is to ask yourself, "What if I had never seen this before? What if I knew I would never see it again?"

- Rachel Carson

Bowling Family- Winter Portraits in Boulder

Liz and Jimmy are truly magnetic people.  The more time you spend with them (and sweet Ashlyn!) the better friends you want to be.  I have been so lucky to photograph their wedding and Ashlyn at one week old.  When they came to see me this weekend for the next of their Inch by Inch series, I was so excited.  Thanks for inspiring me to make great photographs, you three!  

Dreaming of spring

Anyone else beginning to long for green grass and long days?  This lovely shoot gave me a little taste of summertime that I thought would be fun to share. Back when the sunflowers were blooming, these sweet sweet friends of mine were waiting for TWINS to arrive.  The two babes, Anya and Marco, are now so big and so amazingly cute.  The big sister, Yvie, who I adore beyond belief is so full of personality.  She is becoming so independant.  I love these photographs of her, especially, because I feel like they capture an innocence that will begin to fade as she gets older and older.  

Photo Camp Friday

Composing the "Moment"

Admittedly, I chose this photo to teach about because I LOVE it so much.  I also chose it because I find from talking to people about photography, that most people who photograph people are interested in capturing the moment first and foremost.  They don't want to miss the moment, but they also want to make a photo that is interesting to look at.  Here's why this photo works:

1) Before Liam and Daddy even started down the hill, I knew the photograph I was hoping to capture.  I, of course, didn't know I was going to get these expressions, but I was expecting something funny to happen and I took a second to THINK about where I wanted to be.  I positioned myself low and slightly to the right so that I wouldn't get plowed down, but also so that I could have the mountains in the background.

2) I set my aperture to about f/5.6 because I wanted BOTH liam and Daddy to be in focus and I was pretty sure one of them would be slightly in front of the other requring a bit more depth of field than my usual f/2.8. 

3) I made sure my "multiple exposure" setting was on, allowing me to rapid fire.  Some people mistake fast shutter speed for rapid fire.  It's not the same thing.  Your shutter speed will automatically be fast in this case, because you are outside with plenty of full sun.  Rapid fire means that you can hold down your shutter button and take 5 or even 10 shots in a row ensuring that you catch the expression you want.

Aren't my boys cute!

 

Sewing

I'm finding that inspiration is pulling me in all sorts of new directions.  I saw this tee-pee project here and thought it looked relatively easy to make.  Never mind that I haven't used a sewing machine since college! With the confidence that I could figure it out, some irresistibly cute bike fabric, and the company and brainpower of a good friend, I embarked on my first real sewing project.  Et Voila!  It was so addictive, I have already signed up for a sewing class with this lovely teacher. Yippee.  Hopefully I will have more creations to share soon!  P.S Liam seems to be very pleased with his new tent/rocket ship/train/restaurant/outhouse!

 

Creativity

Here's a quote from my favorite book of late:

 

"As parents, we are truly blessed to have in our lives both the most natural and intuitive "teachers" of creativity.  I do believe that as human beings, we are all born with  the ability, the desire, the passion, and the drive to be creative."

- Amanda Blake Soule, The Creative Family

 

Photo Camp Friday

For awhile I have been trying to keep regular "Tips for taking photos you LOVE" up on my facebook page but it just never seems to happen.  So, here's my new idea:  Photo Camp Friday.  Come check out the blog every friday and find new tips for a weekend of great photos.  

SHOOT THROUGH STUFF:

This photo was taken in my backyard during the last huge snow storm in Boulder.  I took lots of shots before this one that were just your typical snapshots of Liam playing.  Don't get me wrong, they were cute, but I wanted to try something a little more abstract.  I found this big branch lying in the yard and I dragged it over to where Liam was playing.  I hid behind it and shot through the branches.  I really like the affect that it gives the photograph.  Here are a couple of tips for making this technique successful:

1) You need to be aware of where your camera is focusing.  Make sure you have the focus setting on "single area" rather than "dynamic area"  so that you have more control and your camera doesn't force you to focus on the branches instead of on your subject.  If you are not sure how to do this either come to PHOTO CAMP this spring or try looking up focus area in your manual. 

2) In order for the branches to be out of focus like you see in my shot, they need to be at least 6 feet from your subject.  If you have the branches too close to your subject, you won't get the same results. To minimize your depth of field, your f/stop should be set as low as possible (f/4 or f/5.6 at the highest). 

Give it a try and post questions here.  I would be happy to help you!

Happy Friday!

Kitchen Remodel

The kitchen is definitely the heart of our little 1900 farmhouse and even before the remodel, it was the reason we bought this house.  Charm.  I'm a sucker for charm every time.  However, we probably started discussing the remodel immediately after moving in...5 years ago! After many many months of gathering ideas, meeting with contractors, and cooking in the toaster over, it's finally finished.  Here are the things that I love about it:

The old fridge that we retrofitted into an island; the butcher block counters finished with waterlox; the industrial glass pendants from schoolhouse electric; the turquoise door that I painstakingly painted; the farmhouse sink from IKEA; the original hood and 6 burner stove that we went round and round about replacing (thanks mom); the window view of our little apple orchard; light light light!

Sweet Axel

I have been meaning to post these images for so long.  Axel is one of Liam's best pals, so when his lovely Mama asked me to do 2 year portraits, I was delighted.  And nervous.  You would think it would be easier to photograph those you know and love...and it is...once you get started.  In this case, Axel opened right up to me and we had so much fun playing in the leaves.  So much expression.  Gotta love 2.

Meghan and Matt- Crooked Willow Farm

Oh what a lovely wedding. I was so pleased that Meghan and Matt were featured recently on Couture Colorado.  What fun!  Go take a peek and read more about the wedding.  Posting this wedding in particular reminds me that I want to give a big THANK YOU to my assistant Beth who took several of the shots below. Beth is not only works tirelessly on the day of the wedding to make sure we don't miss a single shot, but she is also a huge part of helping my business run smoothly behind the scenes.  I am so grateful. 

Wedding Planner: Colorado Wedding Company

Flowers: Delilah's

Venue: Crooked Willow Farm

Snowy Day

It is on this snowy day in Boulder that I come back to the blog.  I think for good this time, but you never can tell.  Way way back, six years ago in Santa Barbara, I created my first blog called Julie's Tea Room. I can't remember exactly what the deal was with the name, but I know my intention was to create a blog (before blogs were quite so prolific) where people could find creative ideas and inpiration of all kinds.  Shortly after, I started my photography business and Julie's Tea Room became Julie Afflerbaugh: Behind the Scenes.  I have really enjoyed sharing posts about the incredible families and gorgeous weddings I have the pleasure of photographing.  However, somewhere along the way, I lost my inspiration for blogging.  I stopped sharing about the little moments inside the big moments, you know?  I'm not sure exactly why this happened, but it's not really important anyway.  What's important is that I'm back.  As Liam says, "Oh yeah, baby!" I'm excited to share...well lots of stuff...but for starters, the little inspirations in my life.  Here's one. 

Lynne and Jesse

Lynne and Jesse were married in Boulder with a spirited reception at the Rembrandt Yard. There are so many fun pics from the day, but I especially love these portraits.  It was literally 100 degrees, so we were seeking shade and shooting fast!  We'll save the shots of the Banjo Billy bus tour and the reception for another post!  Stay tuned.

The Borden Family- Fall Portraits Boulder

Check out this sweet family!  I am so lucky to have the BEST clients.  And, this fall was one of the most incredible I've seen in Boulder.  One of the fun things about my  job is I am much more aware of the way the landscape changes through the seasons.  I love how these tall grasses turn red in the fall.  What are they called, I wonder?

The Friedrick Family- Boulder Fall Portraits

The fall portrait season is coming to a close.  What fun we've had!  Thanks to the Friedrick family for bringing your smiles and genuine affection. You guys make my job a breeze!

The Dewitt Family- Boulder Outdoor Portraits

I have been photographing the Dewitt family for a long time!  It was so much fun to have the chance to capture all the kids now that they are all walking.  I tell my clients all the time...don't forget to bring them back when they are 4 and 5 years old.  The photos just get better and better!  I got to be super silly with the two boys and we got some great smiles!

Holiday Cards 2011

We have some fun new photo ornament card designs this year.  What a fun way to share your good tithings with friends and family!  They can hang your ornament on the tree year after year.

Don't forget to place your order by Nov 25 to allow plenty of time for stuffing and licking!

If you would like your gallery re-activated in order to place orders for holiday gifts and cards, please let me know as soon as possible! 

 

 

The Strong Family- Maternity Photography Boulder

Angela came all the way from Texas for maternity shots in Boulder!  She got married in the mountains and thought it would be a fun way to document the new baby on the way.  What a pleasure to photograph this lovely mama and get to know her a bit, too.  These shots are some of my all-time fav belly pics.

The Trabant Family

A lovely morning shoot! How fun to see the sun rise through the cottonwood trees.  It was a bit chilly, but sweet little Emma was a trooper!

The Beig Family

What a lovely family! Jumping roping, fly fishing, tea party and sweet merriment.  Thanks Beig family, it was my pleasure to document you all.

Flatiron Family Portraits

This shoot was a little bit different from my usual routine since teenagers were involved!  Luckily Sean and Andre are sweet guys and didn't give me too much trouble!  This location is a favorite walking spot for the family and they wanted a very classic portrait with mountains in the background.  A fun lighting challenge for me!

The Reed Family Portraits- Boulder

I adore this family.  I photographed Ethan when he was in his mama's belly and now he is going to be a big brother.  Seeing each family grow is one of the best parts of my job! 

Colorado Mountain Ranch Wedding- Gold Hill, Colorado

Debra and Danny are an amazing couple and I truly enjoyed getting to know them both.  This wedding was also extra fun due to the vintage truck story.  I attend the darling fourth of July parade each year in Gold Hill and this year I spotted this old truck amoung the hippy vans and fire trucks.  I followed it up the road to the owner's house and had the pleasure of meeting it's owner, Pete.  The sweetest man ever.  He was delighted by the idea of driving a bride and groom to their wedding reception and so these images were made...

 

Welcome Fall

Such a sweet sweet family and a lovely fall day at the barn.  I love the change of season in Colorado. 

 

 

Family portraits in the Colorado landscape

Jenn, Rob and Ryland love to camp and raft, so I thought Betasso Preserve outside of Boulder was the perfect place for some family portraits.  Love the little pop of orange in the muted fall landscape.

Bird Dog Press

Check out these lovely letterpress invitations made by Alison Bozeman at the Bird Dog Press.  Her designs are so sweet and creative...you simply must hire her for your wedding!

Also, that reminds me that this weekend is the Gypsy Farm Market where Alison and other crafters will be selling their handmade wares.  I'll be there shopping for unique christmas gifts!  

Registration Open For Fall Photo Camp 2011

Join other Moms who share a love of photography for a weekend filled with connection, creativity and learning.  In the comfort of Julie’s Boulder studio, you will boost your confidence with handling your SLR digital camera, develop an eye for creative composition, and master a few simple “professional” tricks.  The goal: Take photos you LOVE.

Itinerary

  

Friday, October 7 - 6 to 9 p.m. 

Moms’ night out: This is your time to learn the basics and gather tips from a pro.  Enjoy wine and cheese with other Boulder area moms while you get camera savvy. 

 

Saturday, October 8 - 10 a.m. to noon

Mamas bring the kiddos (6 months and older) for a fully interactive learning experience.  While the little ones are focused on a supervised art project, you get to practice your new skills on the subjects you love most! Julie will demonstrate how to use available light, offer tools for engaging your subject, and provide one on one support.

 

Details:

Cost: $160 per person

{Includes Friday and Saturday sessions, kids’ program on Saturday and refreshments.}

Participants must bring a digital SLR camera.

Both sessions are held at the Julie’s Studio: 1012 Hawthorn Ave., Boulder CO 80304

 

Happy Camper:

"Photo Camp is exactly what I needed to feel more comfortable with my camera. As a mom I have little time to read manuals or books (other than parenting ones!). I left Photo Camp feeling like I had gained the skills to take my photography to the next level and to actually capture those moments of my kids that I'd been trying so hard to capture before."  

  

For Registration call 303-704-9999. Pre-payment is required to hold your spot at camp. Sign up with a friend and you BOTH receive $25 off your registration. 

 

 

 

 

 

Meghan and Matt at Crooked Willow Farm

One of my favorites from Meghan and Matt's lovely wedding at Crooked Willow Farm.  The location was a dream and the couple could not have been sweeter.  There will be more to come from this one!

Newborn Portraits in our natural light studio in Boulder

Welcome Baby Henry!  What a pleasure it was to meet you. 

Pregnancy Location Portraits

Some sweet belly pics of Norah at my favorite location.  LOVE THAT LIGHT.

Emily and Dan- Grand Lake Wedding

Emily and Dan are a truly lovely couple, full of warmth and joy. I was delighted to photograph their Grand Lake wedding since this was a new venue for me.  The views are spectacular!  At weddings I find there are often magic moments that I will always remember.  At Emily and Dan's wedding, Emily walked down this long hill to the ceremony site with her Mom.  It had started to rain, the bagpipes were playing, and everyone stood silently watching the bride. She was stunning.  For a moment, we all wondered whether we would need to delay the ceremony and take shelter under the trees.  But, then the sun pushed through the clouds, the rain stopped and the impressive peaks came into view.  These are a just a few a my favorite shots from the day (a few shot by the talented Rachel Olsen). 

Coordinator:  The fabulous Kara Delay at www.lovethisday.com

Flowers: Kara Delay

Dress: Ivy and Aster

Makeup: Girls and Curls

 

 
 

Emily and Jim- Frog Belly Farm Wedding

Oh what a dream!  I adore farms, and tall grass, and cottonwood trees, and chickens and affectionate couples! Emily and Jim put so much thought into creating a wedding day that represented who they are as a couple and the best part was they were clearly enjoying every minute. The ceremony was held at the Star House in Boulder and the rollicking reception complete with hayrides and a bouncy house was at Frog Belly Farm.  Perfect Petal created the gorgeous flower arrangements. 

 

 

 

 

Jen and Salvo- Boulder Backyard Wedding

Jen and Salvo's wedding was special for so many reasons. Despite the fact that they live in San Francisco and Salvo is from Italy, they choose to be married at the house where Jen grew up here in Boulder. It was really fun for me, because it happened to be in my neighborhood.  Jen's Mom is a wonderful gardener and thanks to her, the location portraits were some of my favorites ever.  More of the details of Jen and Salvo's lovely wedding will be featured on Style Me Pretty in a few weeks. 

Caterer: Amelia at Savory Cuisines

Flowers: Painted Primrose

Dress: Catherine Devillo

 

Sweet Yates Family