Capturing More

This Blog

2010-12-07T22:40:00.000-08:00

I will no longer be using this blog for business purposes.

I want to save my posts here, for memory's sake, but will no longer be blogging about my business in this format. After 7 years of running my photography business, I am taking a step back. I have found that working full-time is not conducive to being a homeschooling mom, and right now that is my priority.

Thank you for 7 wonderful years, Reno :)

Humbled

2010-06-13T22:26:00.000-07:00

Tonight, I am sitting in the quiet of my home. Every sleepy head is sleeping, and I'm taking a break, resting up for a very busy week.

I have been so moved by this blog post by photographer Deb Schwedhelm, tonight.

Majorly moved. We're talking tears on the keyboard.

I'm left to sit here, in the silence and think about the importance of a mom's presence within her family.

We all struggle in our own unique ways. We look in the mirror and grimace at the sight of ourselves. We resent the work we do. We tire of the mundane nature of our role as a wife and mom. But tonight I am humbled by the story of Kirsten Sandstrom and the stories of others whose time with their babies was all too short. Tonight, I'm going to let go of those little self-criticisms, and bitter feelings.

It's so easy to look at a photograph of yourself and point out the problems. You forget that the photograph tells so much more about the wife, mother, and WOMAN you are, than the size of your thighs, or how long it's been since you've seen the hair stylist. Every little part of you (and of me, too!) is loved. In some way, even the things I'd prefer not to look at, are lovable and beautiful to the people who love me.

As I've thought this through, I've come to this conclusion: Avoiding being photographed doesn't make me invisible, it doesn't make anyone see any less of my roots, or thigh-size. It just makes me a smaller dot on the map of my own family history.

Time is short and to quote Deb Schwedhelm's blog: "In 20 years, your children are not going to say, 'I really love this photo of my family, but I wish my mom had waited until she lost some weight'."

This is not a sales pitch. It's a call to action.

Please don't shy away from the camera anymore. Let your beauty shine through your imperfections. Look into the camera, and smile your happiest smile. Hand the camera to someone and ask them to take a photo of you with your kids. When you look at the photo don't dwell on anything bad. Admire the good and move on.

Memories are important and we just don't get a second chance to make them.

In closing I would like to share a photograph of myself - thighs and all - with my lovely family, who love me everyday.

Goodnight, friends.

Busy Season

2010-05-31T16:44:00.000-07:00

That whole busy season is starting to come down on me. This is the time of year, where I start to think that it's almost Christmas time, because I realize I don't have any free time until Christmas time. Heh.

That said, I suppose it would be appropriate to announce here that, except for mini sessions, I am completely booked through mid-July. If you want a summer session, call soon. If you want a fall session, you can book that now, too. Since I've stepped back my availability and taken on some weddings things are going to be a bit different this year.

I'll finalize the July beach mini session plan very soon, too, so that those of you who are interested can book that as well.

Now for the good stuff!

Dancey portraits of my sweet girl:

A baby plan 6-month-er. SO DELICIOUSLY CHUBBY! :)

And finally - head to the wedding blog to see more of this engagement session:

Somewhat homebound

2010-04-21T22:31:00.000-07:00

Ah! Car troubles are . . . troublesome. Aren't they? Our old friend Cooper is in the shop FOR THE SECOND TIME IN A MONTH. I'm not overly amused. But I will live. I'll get a lot of computer work done! Maybe I'll even venture into the realm of Spring Cleaning. Should be lots of fun.

For now, I'm pretending that I'm stuck at home because of a volcano in Iceland. It makes the whole thing seem a lot more adventurous.

I've been having lots of fun doing fun springy photos. Lots of surprise Mother's Day and Father's Day sessions! Which of course I can't post any sneak peeks from BECAUSE IT WOULD RUIN THE SURPRISE!

But mentioning it does give me a good opportunity to mention to you that Now Is The Time to book, if you'd like prints for Mother's Day. You can use your Mother's Day photos for Father's Day gifts, too!

It's also First Communion season, and I finally got an opportunity to photograph a couple of adorable little ones on the morning they celebrated their First Communion. Here they are:

Portraits for a family with baby #3 on the way!

and a little peek of a wedding album I recently delivered:

An album like this is available at any time - not just for Brides and Grooms. I recently did a similar album for a newborn session, I've done albums with several years of family photos, and for baby plan clients at the completion of their baby's first year.

A couple visitors to my house who insisted they be photographed, okay, I insisted . . . you know how it is:

And finally, for fun, a few odds and ends:

Little Faces

2010-03-08T17:36:00.000-08:00

Minor change of plans

2010-02-23T16:16:00.000-08:00

Hi There!

This weekend's snow sessions will be IN TOWN. Call me if you're interested :)

Laid Up and Snowed In

2010-02-22T19:20:00.000-08:00

I guess I should begin at the beginning.

That would be Wednesday the 17th - all beautiful and warm - the kind of day that makes you happy to live in this great little town. We took our pup to the marina for the first time and decided we'd blow off our nights' plans to stay home and enjoy dinner and a movie as a family.

When we got home the kids got their bikes out and went for a ride. I had gone out to check on them twice, and thought I'd call them in, in just a couple of minutes. I was preparing to cook dinner and Drew went out to the store, to fill a few empty spaces in our pantry.

I had the TV on, and hit pause to listen more closely to what sounded like crying outside. "No, more like screaming." I waited half a second. "Yes, that's definitely screaming". I started to walk to the front of the house to investigate. Then started to run when it didn't seem to be stopping.

I got to our entry way right as my frantic, horrified daughter got to the porch. My son had been hit by a car at the foot of our neighbor's driveway. He was alert, but probably pretty shocked at what had just happened. He had a bloodied mouth and said his shoulder hurt. The police, firemen and ambulance came - and we took a ride to Renown Trauma Center where he was diagnosed with a broken collar bone. He also had the gnarliest fat lip I've ever seen and lots of scrapes and bruises.

It wasn't until we got to the hospital that it really sunk in how lucky we were. All I can say is that I am SO EXTREMELY GRATEFUL that he'll heal and be back to himself before too long.

(On the mend, staying close to the couch, watching lots of bobsled, planning his future as an Olympian)

As you can imagine we've been staying close to home, doing lots of resting and napping and Olympics watching. On Sunday we did have plans to attend church, but that was about it.

Then on Saturday night, we watched the snow as it collected out back.

And out front.

My inner child demanded that the children (along with a friend who came to spend the night) come outside with me for a moment to catch snowflakes and admire the silent, snowy night.

It snowed all night without stopping - and all morning too. I measured Sunday afternoon and we had 19" in our backyard.

Now to the task of getting myself back to routine.

I've been taking it easy on myself these past few days, but I'll be catching up this week. I am still planning for snow sessions this weekend, if anyone is interested.

I'll keep it brief. I have a couple of positive confirmed participants, and could take 1-2 more.

If you are interested in having snow portraits done this weekend call me up. I'm here, fluffing pillows and practicing my skills as the deciding TV-show-vote. What will it be Hannah Montana or Women's Biathlon?

My phone is nearby, and I am usually free to answer.

I have a fair number of you out there who have orders to place or little strands of unfinished business to tie up. You can call me, too, if you'd like. I have appointment availability next week, if you need to meet with me. Your galleries should be open, if you have one. Call me and I'll open it up, if it isn't.

And finally: Living and running a business here in Reno is such a blessing. You, my clients and friends, have offered me such comfort and encouragement this week. I am thankful for each of you, for your kindness, concern, and loving words. You mean the world to me and to our family.

Snowy!

2010-01-29T16:03:00.000-08:00

Hi There!

I am officially calling the mini sessions tomorrow afternoon due to weather. The forecast is calling for snow and high winds at the summit, which might make our pictures a little less-than-awesome :(

If you have a session booked, I probably already talked with you, but if you didn't, the new date will be during the weekend of February 20th.

If you'd like snowy photos in February, call me!

Much Love!

Snowy Sessions and More

2010-01-21T16:35:00.000-08:00

Hi There!

Wowie are we ever getting a lot of snow this year! Hopefully this will all add up to a beautiful snow pack for all of you skiers and snowboarders, and lots of fun snow for our snow mini sessions on January 30th.

Weather permitting we'll be meeting at Tahoe Meadows on the Mt. Rose Highway starting at 1pm that Saturday. There are still a few sessions available, too!

For those of you who might be interested I am also offering a FOUR SEASONS package, which will give you four mini sessions during 2010! Your first Mini session will be Snowy sessions on January 30th, Spring Flowers in April, a beach session at Lake Tahoe in July and a Fall Leaves or Pumpkin Patch session in October. You'll get your choice of a storyboard with one image from each session or 25 Christmas cards at the conclusion of the year.

If you're interested in either option, please don't hesitate to call me at 775.830.1065!

I am still looking for destination weddings, small weddings and elopements, as well. I have availability throughout the year, but just one slot left in June, so if you're thinking of having a wedding with fewer than 70 guests, please call me! I am an experienced wedding photographer, but I am charging portfolio building rates through Spring and Summer 2010, as I am looking to increase my wedding clientele.

Finally, how about a few photos! :)

And Happy Birthday to my little girl who turned 8 years old yesterday. She bought this dress with her own money, and selected it because of it's sensible price! So cute!

I think that means she is growing up.

January 7, 2010

2010-01-07T16:11:00.000-08:00

Hi There!

A couple items of business.

1. The often promised, but never before delivered SNOW mini sessions will take place on Saturday January 30, 2010 at the Tahoe Meadows snow play area on Mt. Rose Highway.

There are still spots left! The price is $55 and includes a 5x7 print. Your session will be 20 minutes long and I'll show you 7-10 finished images 2 weeks after your session. You can select your free 5x7 from any of those photos, and order any additional prints at that time as well!

Call me if you're interested!

775.830.1065

2. I would also like to schedule a business portrait mini session event, based on interest. The price will be $90 and that price includes 7-10 finished portraits on CD with full copyright release. Your business portraits would be excellent for use on a business website or business card.

Of course you can expect my same relaxed, casual style. This is not your typical business portrait, but I think it will fit the needs of lots of you young professionals out there. Especially those of you who want to set yourselves apart with a different, more interesting business card!

I have had a few inquiries, but I don't know how much interest there really is in a product like this.

So, if you're interested, give me a call and we'll put a date together!

Here is an example of business portraits I've photographed in the past:

Finally, my full session dates for January and February are filling up quickly. If you've already called and inquired I've made sure there is room for you in my schedule. If you haven't called or we haven't communicated, call soon. I'm just about fully booked for both January and February.

Much Love!

Now Accepting . . .

2010-01-02T23:04:00.000-08:00

I'd like to try something new - and I'd like your help, if you can.

I'd like to photograph a few weddings this spring and summer.

Here's what I am looking to do:

Small Weddings
Destination Weddings
Elopements

So, if you know anyone who is eloping, having a small wedding or taking their entire wedding on the road, have them call me! I have lots of availability and the price will be nice!

Happy New Year!

2009-12-30T17:02:00.000-08:00

Hi there!

I am copying the text of an email I sent out to those of you who are on my mailing list, today!

If you're not on the mailing list - add your address here to join:

For Email Marketing you can trust

2009 was another whirlwind year here and I couldn't be more grateful to each of you for your patronage, support and kind words.

I've got some cool promotions as well as big changes brewing for 2010. Read on!

Over the past six years you have supported me and my photography. You've given me highest complements through the referrals of your friends and families. I have spent these past few years working to build a business that would bring moving, beautiful and unique memories into your homes. To that end, I think I've had a lot of successes.

Today, I feel I am at a crucial stage in the growth of my business and what I need to foster now, is one simple thing: Balance. As you probably know balancing a career, family and a little bit of free time isn't an easy thing to do. It's especially not easy for the artistic parts of my personality.

I need to balance my business, and my life, in order to serve my clients, my family and myself better.

I have come up with a list of new years resolutions, of sorts, that I believe will help me to create this much needed balance!

1. Host MORE Mini Sessions and Events. I'll be offering a wider variety of mini session events and organized location portrait sessions. I'll be doing this to create new, lower cost ways for you to use my services more often. It will also provide me with a much needed schedule that I can adhere to.

2. Communicate deadlines. All deadlines will now be communicated in writing, so that you know with 100% certainty when your portraits will be ready to be reviewed, orders can be placed and your finished prints will be placed in your hands. My communication will be clear and consistent and I'll back that up with a guarantee:

If for any reason I am unable to stick to a communicated deadline, you'll get $20 in print credit PER DAY over the quoted deadline

3. Be present in the moment. What does this mean to you? It means I'll be keeping more regular hours both at home and at work. My new business hours will be strictly adhered to. I commit to taking only the work I can manage in the time I have available to complete it. This means I'll be taking on fewer individual sessions, and instead using those mini sessions and events I talked about in item 1, above, to accommodate the majority of my workload.

and finally,

4. Do more of what fuels me. I commit to giving back to the community and being available for the needs charitable organizations. I commit to doing a quarterly personal photography project, to keep my creativity sharp and fresh.

I respectfully offer these commitments up to you. They'll provide solutions for a few trouble spots, and hopefully make the sweet spots a little bit sweeter.

Have the happiest of new years, all!

Much Love!

Happy Christmas!

2009-12-23T20:52:00.000-08:00

Hi There!

I hope you're all having a wonderful Christmas.

The snow and cold has been so . . . out of character for this early in the year. For a minute there, I was starting to think we would definitely have a White Christmas, but weather.com just told me there's a 0% chance of that. Oh well!

We're finally all wrapped up for Christmas deliveries, now! I mailed out a few odd cards and gifts today and I'm ready to settle in for a memorable Christmas. It was wonderful to see a few of you last week when I came around to deliver a few special surprise gifts!:

I have some photos to share, just for fun. I also wanted to tell you to watch the blog and your email inboxes for a whole boatload of new information on what to expect in 2010, over the next couple of days. I have BIG TIME plans for new contests, discounts, mini sessions and lots of other stuff.

Finally, I'd like to say THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart to each of you who read here, and show me your support. Whether you're a client, friend or just somebody who reads for fun, I want to say Thank You. You make this all possible and I'm forever grateful!

On to the photos!

A wonderful, small, Monday afternoon wedding I photographed!

The pup likes the snow! (also, she's getting SO BIG!)

Snow Bunny

Have the Happiest of Christmases!

Almost there . . .

2009-12-02T20:50:00.000-08:00

November is always such a whirlwind for me. It kind of just snowballs right smack into December, which just snowballs right smack into next year.

I suppose it could be the fault of my chosen profession, though. I start selling Christmas cards in August!

November whings by without me even noticing it most years, it seems. I do have a tremendous photographic record of all the work I've done, and fun things I've been a part of, though. And without it I'm not sure I'd remember November.

I thought that in today's blog post I'd share a selection of the photos I've had the opportunity to create this past November:

(I could post about a trillion photos from this wedding, but I'll stop for now!)

And a kitty cat for good measure!

Ah! November is gone. Now we're neck deep in Christmas, I suppose. I am so excited to be saving a few little gems for after the holidays, including a really fun after-Christmas sale that you should probably prepare yourselves for (!) and an upcoming Friends and Family sale that you won't want to miss either.

Thank you so much, to those of you who have invited me into your homes this year. I am so blessed to have an opportunity to photograph your families, and have a small part in helping you to document your family history. My loyal clients mean the world to me, and I'm glad to count you (YES! YOU!) among them! :)

Happy Autumn!

2009-11-18T16:20:00.000-08:00

Hi There :)

Two quick things: 1. My email is fully operational again, so we'll go back to the good ol' Emily at EmilyLoftus dot com email address.

2. I'll be away over the weekend, photographing a wedding in San Francisco. (!!!!!) If you need anything please leave a message and all calls will be returned on Monday.

Lots of love! Now, enjoy all these yummy, autumnal images!

And a sweet newborn baby for good measure:

Hi There . . .

2009-11-16T23:58:00.001-08:00

Please temporarily direct all emails to ellphotography@gmail.com

I'll let you all know when I get my webmail back in order and running as it should run. :)

Thanks!

A New Look!

2009-10-29T16:28:00.001-07:00

I have been using my logo for the past three or four years, and have been generally happy with it. I have always been looking for something just a little more memorable, though. I had never really hit the nail on the head with a logo idea until I took these photos of my children a few months back:

It was an idea that hit me in a sudden moment of inspiration, something I was photographing almost as quickly as I thought it, then processing rather than eating dinner that night.

Sometimes the inspiration comes and you just have to go with it.

It was a couple months ago that I decided I thought I'd like to use the photos as inspiration for a new logo. I went to work on it myself, but ultimately called in a real professional to make it all work correctly for me!

I'm super happy with the design we've come up with here!

Have a look!

I'll be implementing it bit by bit over the next few weeks. New cards and a new logo sticker for the 'ol Mini Cooper are in the works!

Enjoy!

The Annual Portrait Event is Upon Us!

2009-10-16T22:47:00.000-07:00

Hello there faithful readers :) It's Pumpkin Patch Portrait Event time, once again.

For those of you who are new clients or weren't able to make it in the past, here's how it works:

We meet at the Pumpkin Patch, for 20 minute sessions. The scenery at the pumpkin patch offers a lot of autumnal variety. There are pumpkins, as well as old fences, and barns, bales of hay and lots of fun scenery. (There are activities that the kids can participate in after their sessions, too!) I'll book six clients per night. Sessions are for groups of up to four people, if you have more than four or you want extra images, you can always book two time slots. Within a week of your session you will have a password to your very own, private online gallery where you'll see 5-8 images from our time together.

The cost for a mini session is $45. The price includes one 5x7 print.

There are special discounted mini session collections, as well, that offer a significant discount on our regular family session pricing.

Sessions will commence at 4:20 pm, each day, and will continue in 20 minute increments until we're all done. I am going to start with two dates, and if they fill up, I'll add a third! Don't wait to call and book as we booked up last year in a VERY short amount of time.

In addition to all of this: This year, our portrait event is also a Breast Cancer Awareness fundraiser. $10 from your mini session fee will be donated to a local cancer charity, in addition I'll offer a special PINK mini accordion book for purchase and the proceeds from the mini accordion will also go to charity.

The dates are October 22nd and October 26th. Time slots are 4:20, 4:40, 5:00, 5:20, 5:40 and 6:00. As I said before, I'll add a third date if need be. If neither of these days work for you, please let me know and I'll take your schedule into consideration when choosing the third date.

Thank you all so much! Please call or email me to book your time slot. emily@emilyloftus.com or 775.830.1065

I'll leave you with a few mini session photos from last year :)

What a Ride

2009-09-04T02:11:00.000-07:00

I guess, after this weekend, we can officially call Summer over, ha?

From where I sit I'd call this one a good one! I've been here, there and everywhere and somehow managed to remember and appreciate a little bit of it.

I have lots of photos to share since I haven't posted in a coon's age (ha!), so I won't blab too much. I wanted to share a little hodge podge of what I've been photographing in the past couple weeks, including a first for me: Yogurt.

Just so you know, the yogurt was all photographed on location for a new locally owned shop called KiiWe. (Pronounced like Kiwi) The yogurt and the fruity toppings they offer are super good for you. I'm a fan! My children recommend the Pomegranate yogurt with fruity pebbles, strawberries and white chocolate chips.

(By the way, KiiWe is adjacent to the movie theater at the Summit Sierra Mall, if you want to try it out.)

Now, on to people! :)

Finally, meet my new best friend:

Her name is Jordyn and I kind of love her a whole lot!

Adventures in Weather Prediction

2009-07-29T18:46:00.000-07:00

Awhile back I reconnected with a client who I hadn't seen in a couple years.

We booked a session at Donner Lake for mid June . . .
that had to be canceled due to weather . . .

so we rescheduled for the next week . . .
and had to cancel due to weather . . .

so we waited until some time went by, and rescheduled again . . .
and ended up having to cancel it again when it looked like weather would be bad once more.

Finally, we had our session scheduled for yesterday, July 28th.

It was hot outside all day. Scorchingly, cloudlessly, NO SIGN OF RAIN hot.

Until I walked out the door for my session at approximately 5:27pm.

I stepped on my front porch, and could immediately smell that smell. You know The Smell. The Rainy smell. Hmmm . . . and then I heard thunder. NOOOO!

WHAT?

So I called her to see if she agreed that we were jinxed.

"Hi, I'm coming either way and I'll take photos in the rain, if I must!" I told her. (okay, that's not really what I said, but you hear me, right?) But she TOTALLY MADE MY LIFE by saying that the skies at the lake were clear.

So, total best of both worlds experience: I had an amazing, scenic drive to Donner Lake, all clouds and lightning and tiny droplets.

And then a relaxing evening at the Lake, with three superawesome little ladies:

And when I drove home the clouds towered overhead and lightning lit the sky daylight bright, glittery purple, and I said, "OH WOW!" outloud, inside my car.

Any sight that causes one to speak aloud to oneself, enthusiastically, is pretty cool in my book.

Some Things . . .

2009-07-18T22:33:00.000-07:00

FIRST OF ALL:

I want to say CONGRATULATIONS to Kim and Alex who are the winners of the Mommy and Me package we raffled off for the folks who bought their photos at In Motion during the week of dance portrait sales!

Enjoy your SOAK massage and Build-a-Bear gift card, ladies!

Emmitt Smith is my homeboy:

For the second year in a row Wire Image hired me as a Stringer to cover the American Century Golf Tournament Gift Suite. This year we were right in the clubhouse at Edgewood in the middle of the action. The view was gorgeous and the company was wonderful. I even got hassled by Edgewood security and got to flash a credential and move right past! FUN!

If you'd like to see my photos, please check them out on the WireImage website.

Day 1

Day 2

Last year I made friends and connections with so many people, this year I got to reconnect with many of them and make new friends. I will gladly work for Backstage Creations and WireImage as often as they'll have me! I just can't even tell you how much fun this event is to work.

Another Summer of Dance, Dance, Dance is here:

More from this session with a dancer and her dancer momma!

Stay tuned . . .

One of my favorite little places . . .

2009-07-10T16:14:00.000-07:00

Hey guys, go to http://www.soaklounge.com and check out their new website.

Photographs courtesy of Emily Loftus Photography! :)

Go to SOAK, too, and tell them we sent you!

Oh Hi There!

2009-07-09T14:32:00.000-07:00

Hey Dance Studio Families!

Your photos will be delivered to the studio TODAY at 4 pm, so feel free to pick them up at your convenience any time after today.

Folks who are on my online gallery list, you'll receive an email from me with your password and information on ordering tonight, and galleries will be opened in the morning. If you still need to see your dance portraits, please email me today, if possible (emily@emilyloftus.com) and I'll put your name on that list!

I just finished packaging all of the orders, and thought I'd share with you my largest pile of packaged orders ever: (this is also a good chance for me to unveil my new packaging, which is 100% recycled!)

Secondly, The Black Rock Dance Company (which is affiliated with In Motion Studio of Dance) is offering a free performance at Wingfield Park on Thursday July 30, 2009 as a part of Artown. The poster and postcard were photographed and designed by yours truly:

Please, if you can go and watch Black Rock perform on the 30th. They are a tremendous group of people, all very talented dancers.

Support the arts in Reno!

Finally, I have a bazillion little loose ends to tie up today so I can't write much more, but I would love to give a little taste of the rest of what I've been up to lately:

Just Dance

2009-06-18T19:26:00.000-07:00

The weekend of June 6th I photographed over 100 young dancers at In Motion Studio of Dance, this week we have been at the studio every day showing all the dancers their images, and helping Moms, Dads and Grandmas make decisions!

Have a little look at a few of our favorite images:

If you're out there reading this, and you haven't placed your order yet, don't forget that tomorrow is your last day to order! We will have representatives at the studio tomorrow from 2:45 until 7:00 p.m.

And Thank you to all of you who've already come to see your photos.

Your smiles warm our hearts!

Oh my neglected blog!

2009-05-20T23:07:00.000-07:00

I have big blog changes brewing, and thereby have been neglecting this wonderful little corner of the web.

Forgive me, my lovelies!

The good news is: I've been busy! Which I won't complain about. :) I've been making a better attempt to keep the website fresh and new-car-smell-ed (whatever that means!)

Check it out to see some new stuff!

I really can't believe that we're about to cross over into Summer. Summer seems an eternity away until Mid-March, then you blink and it's here.

So, do you want to know what I've been up to?

Our old friend Cooper got to go to San Francisco:

She brought me there so that I could photograph this amazing lady, who just so happens to be my cousin:

I got to spend some quality time with this darling lady. After we hung out her Momma asked me if I babysit! I think that means I did a good job.

And finally, a photo to prove that I also have a male child, who sometimes allows me to photograph him. But only sometimes.

Welcome Back!

2009-03-09T20:11:00.000-07:00

I think our Winter Fog may finally be lifting, Reno! I can tell, because my allergies are starting to flare up! Wheee! As of today, I am counting the days until I can go outside barefoot!

I have a few new photos to share!

I spent this past Saturday afternoon with an adorable little lady, whose Momma just so happens to be an amazing hairstylist! MY amazing hairstylist. Together with my sister, we had a grand time down at the little league fields. Three girly-girl-meets-tomboy girls, playing with tutus and running the bases.

I photograph this family regularly, and I'm very lucky to be their "Picture Emily." The youngest member of their family is this little man who at 10 months old and might outweigh his 3 year old sister. If he doesn't already, he will soon! Is he not the cutest? I feel like this photo is a window into his big-boy self.

Over Christmas I got a call from a mom wanting to book a newborn session for the baby she was expecting. I got to go and meet the little man last week. He's just pink and perfect as a baby can be. 5 days old. Expect to see lots more of him over the next year.

Finally, the gorgeous couple with whom I had the most adventurous session of my entire career, so far. There were at least two pairs of pants torn in our adventures. You'll just have to wonder what it is that happened! You get to see one of our less adventurous photos for now!

Old Friends

2009-01-18T00:38:00.000-08:00

Growing up and living in the same town for my entire life has afforded me some beautiful opportunities, not the least of which is the ability to maintain life long friendships.

In fifth grade I was but a shadow of the totally put together and with-it woman I am today. (ha!) Silly? Yes. Awkward? Often. Luckily for me, I had a silly/awkward soul mate. Even more luckily for me, I still have her. Since the fifth grade we've given each other counsel, since the 8th grade we've colored one another's hair, we've always thrown food at each other on a pretty regular basis.

Our lives are intertwined, and so are the lives of our families. Each of the women in this photo serve an important role in my life, and in my history. Who are they to me? You already know about my Best Friend and Confidant. The others are many things, including sister-entertainer, nanny, accountant, model, person-to-tease, there are more answers to this question. Years ago we taught each other how to make messes. Not just any messes, but real, actual MESSES. They kept my sister out of my hair back in the days when she was an annoying baby, so that us mature older sisters could throw eggs at each other in the kitchen.

One of them was born the same day as my brother, two hospital doors down the hall. One of them comes to my house every quarter and helps me do things I'm not very good at. One of them is probably the best babysitter known to mankind.

The history we have together cannot be faked. In many ways, these women are my sisters, too.

And aren't they all growing to be such beautiful women?

Back in the swing

2009-01-07T11:14:00.000-08:00

I'm delusional!

I really thought I'd get some work done while the kids were out of school. Yeah, that didn't happen. I tried, I truly did. Now that they're back at school, though, I'm happily catching up!

For me right now, Catching Up means lots of things, not the least of which is editing the MANY photos I took at Matt and Megan's wedding. Sorting through thousands of photos is a bit different from sorting through hundreds, like I normally do. It's rewarding to watch the story as it comes together, though. I'm used to jobs I can finish in a matter of an afternoon.

All of this work is made a bit easier by the MANY Starbucks gift cards I got for Christmas, and The Little Mermaid Original Broadway Cast recording. I'm cool. Please remember that.

I digress: All this work on my part means, you all get to have a peek! Enjoy!

Mickey was here and there . . .

Back!

2008-12-26T01:38:00.000-08:00

I am home from Florida and I've made it through Christmas alive!

Stay tuned to your email tomorrow, for news on a sale that will be happening the 26th through the 31st. Email me if you want your name added to the mailing list!

In the meantime enjoy a little wedding photo sneak peek! I can almost guarantee you that you'll see more!

Almost done

2008-12-14T13:37:00.000-08:00

LAST CALL!

Hey folks, this is your last call for Christmas orders. I am leaving for Florida on Tuesday morning at 6 am - so any last minute orders should be placed no later than 2:00 tomorrow! Okay?

Thanks much!

Catch you on the flip side.

Are you yet living?

2008-12-09T01:27:00.000-08:00

GUESS WHAT?

I am actually alive.

Alive and working.

A lot.

Like a lot more than ever before.

Like every time I ever said "wow I'm busy!" in the past . . . NO! Actually, I wasn't.

Blogging is not so much on my schedule these days. I will be back in action soon, though.

I leave for The Disney World Wedding of a Lifetime in one week exactly.

And can I just say something?

You clients of mine: YOU TOTALLY ROCK MY WORLD!

Glad I got that off my chest! :)

I'm Thankful for . . .

2008-11-27T00:27:00.000-08:00

This year, I am thankful for you.

Each and every one of you. I'm thankful that you've trusted me with your memories. I'm thankful that you laugh with me, entertain me, and let me play with your babies and puppies.

Because of each and every one of you, my clients and friends, my life is richer.

I pray that I'll be able to make yours richer as well.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Almost there . . .

2008-11-23T11:07:00.000-08:00

My days have been f-u-l-l, full. I'm powering through and I'm just about ready to have all my galleries posted, and deliveries taken care of.

Less than a month now until I head to Florida for Matt and Megan's wedding in DISNEYWORLD! So. Excited.

Look for so many exciting things coming after the holidays.

First of all, A gift certificate sale that's going to rock your world. Secondly, You'll be seeing a little more of our work around town. I'll share more details very soon.

For now, check out this article that features me!

Out of nowhere update

2008-11-14T23:55:00.000-08:00

I changed all but two photos in the connections gallery tonight. I included a lot more examples of family portraits than I had included in the past. If anyone was looking for samples of family photos, they're there now :)

Thanks again!

Emily

I think . . .

2008-11-14T11:10:00.000-08:00

Okay folks, I think it's time to close the gates on Christmas sessions.

My phone has been ringing nonstop these past two days and I have booked pretty much every session I think I can handle.

I may have room for two more - at most. Of course it will all depend on when we're both available.

So if you've been waiting to call THIS IS YOUR MOMENT!

Thanks so much everyone!

A little update from me

2008-11-09T19:59:00.000-08:00

Things are definitely buzzing here! I am muti-tasking like you wouldn't believe.

I do still have some time slots available, though, so please call now if you're still wanting photos in time for Christmas! (quite a few weekday sessions and a weekend session or two left!) I'll take sessions up through the end of November and first week in December, for Christmas print delivery.

I also have a couple announcements:

Mini session galleries will all close on Monday at midnight, so for the few of you that haven't ordered yet give me a call or email sometime tomorrow! All of you should have receieved two emails from me, one last night and one tonight giving you the last minute information you need. If anyone hasn't receieved that information please let me know asap!

AND

I will be out of town all day on Tuesday, so all of my messages and emails from late Monday and Tuesday will be returned Wednesday.

Finally, I leave you with a couple more images of my precious little twins from last week!

Enjoy:

There are no words

2008-10-31T00:24:00.000-07:00

- only photos:

My first twins ever. Sweet baby boys born on the 25th of this month. Tiny, warm and sweet smelling.

Love.

Thirteen down - None to go

2008-10-26T00:08:00.000-07:00

Well, we seem to have made it out alive and well! I can say for sure that another October will not pass without me hosting a pumpkin patch portrait event. I had So. Much. Fun. For real. Both days were pure delight. There were so few bumps in the road, so-to-speak, that I couldn't stop talking about how quickly it flew by and how much fun I'd had.

It was a tremendous joy to meet all the new families, and catch up with old friends.

Thank you again to all of you who came out to celebrate this beautiful autumn with us. Hopefully the dirt in your shoes will remind you of me. Galleries for the portrait event will be posted by next weekend.

I'll be in touch with the rest of you who are waiting on things from me by Tuesday! I'll be out of town Monday.

Love you all!

One Down, One to Go

2008-10-22T00:30:00.000-07:00

Last night went amazingly smoothly! Thank you to all of you who came out and played at the Pumpkin Patch with us. It was great to meet new people and see old friends. All of these babies are getting so big!

I look forward to seeing another group of you on Friday. We are totally booked, and everyone is confirmed, so all should be set to go! I am expecting more people, in general, at the Pumpkin patch on Friday, so make sure you give yourselves some time to park and find us as we wander. We'll be watching out for you, too.

Thanks all, and here's one tiny sneak peek from Monday!

See you on Friday!

Portrait Event . . .

2008-10-18T23:46:00.000-07:00

We are officially BOOKED for TWO portrait events, one on Monday the 20th and one on Friday the 24th. Both portrait events booked in a day. I'm amazed. I'm so excited to meet those of you who are new clients, and to touch base with some old clients I haven't seen in awhile.

I have had family sessions all week, a senior this weekend and today I was at the Ronald McDonald House taking family portraits for Christmas cards for families whose kids are in the hospital.

It's a very busy week, but I'm here with ya! Call me if you need anything.

I still have two weekend days open in November - and I MAY have October 25th open, I have one person interested but no confirmation yet. Give me a call if you still need a weekend session or if you need anything at all. Even if you just want to talk :)

I leave you with one fabulously adorable little girl:

Fall Portrait Event

2008-10-11T15:18:00.000-07:00

Last night I sent an email out to my email list about my Fall Pumpkin Patch Portrait Event and by this morning all but one of the time slots were full! Crazy, no?

I am thinking that I may put another day on the calendar if there is more interest.

Let me know if you're interested in a $40 mini session at the pumpkin patch next week - and if enough of you are, I'll put more dates on the calendar!

Also - there's ONE MORE time slot for Monday the 20th open, if you're interested!

Thanks all,
Emily

Ready!

2008-10-07T10:01:00.001-07:00

I got ready for Christmas so very early this year, that I think I'm already burnt out.

Not really.

But it already seems over in my mind. Almost like there's at time limit on Christmas - I get one month - Since I started in August, my month is over! haha!

I have made a really big decision for the new year. Really Big! I am excited to announce it when the time is right. But for now, I'm just going to get you excited about it, too. Stay tuned for that.

I have been busy as ever. This is a tiny taste . . .

Enjoy:

We went up the beautiful aspens on Monitor Pass to scout a photo session location, unfortunately the Aspens won't work out - but they sure are beautiful. The problem is the 10 million yellowjackets who inhabit this gorgeous wood, this time of year. Yeah, something tells me a terrified five year old won't really give great photos.

My little model here wasn't scared, but she's a rare brave little girl. I know for a fact that my daughter would FREAK.

AND - I did get bit - and I am allergic to the bites - so no more aspens in the fall for me, which makes me very sad!

My last little dancer for the dance studio display! We were at the location a little late, and the street lights were already coming on, so I used it to my advantage!

A little friend of ours turned one year old! HOW CAN THIS BE? She sure did love that cupcake.

And finally a new baby who happens to be simply gorgeous. She's tiny, and delicate and has tons of thick dark hair. Momma and Daddy are so very proud. You'll be seeing more of her as this next year passes.

We got SOAK'd

2008-09-14T21:17:00.000-07:00

Before I talk about this past weekend, I should tell you how the idea came about.

It started with an idea of how I wanted to celebrate my birthday. My thought process was that I should use my birthday to thank my friends, who help me out with my business and at home on a very regular basis. The idea was that I should take the lot of them to SOAK for a pedicure.

It was less than an hour later that I decided that it might be even more amazing if I could use this event to thank my friends AND my very special clients.

After an afternoon of discussion with all the decision makers here, I made the final call, we're doing it! Soak was available for my chosen day, September 13th, and everything began to come together.

Three months of preparation brought me (and my helpers) to yesterday, at an adorable little nail spa on 2nd street near downtown Reno. Four of us women arrived at SOAK at noon, and began to set up all of our stuff. Prints on a table in the entryway, an amazing collection of gift bags in the main room, and lunch in the back room. Lunch was sandwiches and salads catered by The Spicy Pickle in Sparks. (Natalie treats us right! Tell her we sent you!)

How did we decide who to invite? I came up with a little equation that took into account the number of times a client has hired me, and how many times they have referred me to their friends, and narrowed my list down from there. My final list included ten guests, each with a friend, and five of my own dear friends. Everyone arrived starting at 12:30. One by one they made their plates, (holy cow was the food ever delicious), sat down and relaxed for their pedicures. Together we enjoyed conversation and Soak's famous Pink Drinks, as well as a gift bag for each attendee and a wide array of door prizes that were given away one-by-one throughout the event.

First, I should tell all about the gift bags:

Each of our guests received Philosophy 3-in-1 products (If you're not familiar, RUN to Sephora and get some. All of them smell like delicious foods and drinks. The Pumpkin Pie is fabulous and is only available during the fall and winter), Tea Forte, a Sephora Loofah, a new -event exclusive- referral packet, and a post spicy pickle breath freshener. Oh, and how can I forget their big present? Each VIP got UNLIMITED, FREE sessions for the next year. Their guests each got one free session. I love these women, truly, and I cannot wait to see more of each of them over the next year.

We assembled the bags, at my house, on my office futon over the course of three evenings, leading up to the event. Don't they look pretty all together?

Secondly, I can't continue without saying that the staff and SOAK was nothing short of perfect. Everything ran very smoothly, every guest was carefully attended to, and we are more than satisfied clients.

You can probably see all the delicious Spicy Pickle food on the tables behind Amber, here. Is this back room not the most adorable thing you've ever seen?

Laura and Heather relax, after the rest of our guests have left. These two women make so many things possible, not the least of which is MY SANITY, so it was a true pleasure to watch my dear friends as they relaxed.

Of course, they talked me in to partaking as well. My original plan was ONLY to be the hostess, but I was convinced (not that it was too hard to convince me) to have a pedi of my own. Of course, I waited until the end. And of course my toes are Mini Cooper blue, now!

Happily relaxing!

I think the best thing about this day was knowing that each of these women, all of them mothers, got to enjoy an afternoon, feeling loved and pampered. Because they SHOULD feel that way, because I do love each of them.

Someone said to me that it felt like mother's day - and I thought, "Perfect! That's exactly what I wanted them to feel!"

I would also like to say that I was able to share my experience at Childhood Cancer Awareness Day with my guests. I shared the photographs I took and the stories of my experience at the event last Saturday. Most of our guests also decided to give a donation to the Reno Cancer Society.

I really can't think of a better way to support our community than to show our valuable clients our appreciation, pamper the people in our lives who deserve it most, and help a worthy cause all at the same time.

Wow! What a day.

I'd like this to serve as a formal announcement that I plan to do this again next year.

This is just the first of what I hope will become very regular events showing my personal appreciation not just for these clients, but for each and every client. There will be more where this came from!

Finally, I feel like now is an appropriate time to say that Emily Loftus Photography just wouldn't be at all possible without the amazing support of Drew, Valerie, Laura, Amber, Heather, Cassie, Trevor, Austen, Cliff, Patti, Tom, Conny, Kelly, Carl, Melissa, Amanda, Holly, Tara, Pamela and every single person who calls me just to talk, gives out my card, sits with me while I work, or waves when I see them around town. I love you all. Thank you for being you.

Christmas is Coming

2008-09-04T12:11:00.000-07:00

I thought it was Friday all morning today, semi excited, I anticipated dawn patrol and my last two dance studio sessions.

It's Thursday. Oopsie.

So I pass the time with chicken tenders and the remnants of a delicious bottle of BBQ sauce. Today, for me, BBQ sauce is the answer. Not for any particular reason, other than the fact that it's really good. BBQ Sauce and Missy Higgins. If you're not familiar - run and download. Please.

Okay, so the title: I know, Christmas isn't coming right this minute, but I'm already feeling the pinch. Calls are rolling in and weekends are filling up. I just booked a session for October today, and one for November yesterday. Next weekend I have an event that I expect will completely fill my available weekend days for holiday sessions, so now is the time to call!

If you are interested in Christmas cards this is the week to book. Here's what I am offering, now through September 12th. Give me a call, book your session, and pay in full and I'll include 25 flat 4.5x5 Christmas cards with your paid session fee. That's only this coming week, though, so if you're interested now is the time!

I am still a busy little bee, trying to keep up with all of the super fun, super crazy sessions you wonderful folks have been sending my way. I am more grateful than you know!

Here's a little peek of what I have been up to since my last post:

Beautiful 3 month old sprite. Expect to see more of her adorable little fauxhawk.

One of the most delicious babies EVER. My sister said, upon seeing this photo, "Pass me the BBQ sauce!" Apparently I'm not the only one who appreciates that delicious condiment.

He is 7 weeks old, and slept like a newborn for me. In an interesting turn of events, none of my newborns last week slept - like - at all. :)

More for the dance studio. We tied the Aerial Silks fabric in a beautiful tree, and Lindsy did the rest of the work. There are so many photos from this session, and I could probably write an entire post about just this one, but this will suffice for today. I do not take credit for the idea at all. It was all her.

Probably the most photogenic girl EVER. This is another session I could talk about all day.

Crazy shenanegins with a super fun little boy. Another Jeffery Pine lover.

How 'bout that hat? I photographed this one in between clothing changes and it just kind of worked out, don't you think?

Tootsies! This little man was previously seen in a bathtub, looking adorable and chubby. Now he's grown up, and has a brand new little brother to tend to.

I didn't mean for most of these to be b&ws, it just worked out that way.

There's so much to tell and so little time to tell it.

Stay tuned for more.

In the future I'll be blogging about:

Kids Cancer Awareness event this weekend
My VIP event next weekend
More new babies
Families
and
The completed dance studio display

Pet Sessions

2008-08-18T01:37:00.000-07:00

I love dogs.

I love them a whole lot.

Right now, I don't own a dog of my own. I have an extremely elderly kitty who I think would prefer to live in peace, in his last years, so for now I am a dogless dog lover. I call my kitties "puppy" regularly, though. Does that make any difference? Didn't think so.

When we found out our friends Ryan and Natalie were getting a Golden Retriever I sent Ryan a message. I'm pretty sure it read "Please, please, please, please, please let me come take photos of the puppy!" Of course he let me!

This was a couple months back, but I am just now ready to get the ball rolling toward MORE PUPPY SESSIONS! I am asking YOU to bring me your puppies, your doggies, your best friends, and your horses and kitty cats, too. (You actually don't have to bring them anywhere. I will come to you, as always.)

Call me or email me now, book a pet session for September, and I'll throw in a massively awesome gift! Sound good?

Of course, I am leaving you with photos of the puppy!

I am still incredibly busy. A ton of you got calls from me this weekend. I am trying to tie up about seven thousand loose ends. I'll be in and out every day this week, with sessions almost every single day, but I will make it a priority to answer when you call!

Thanks for reading!

Up to my Eyeballs

2008-08-14T14:27:00.000-07:00

It's a quiet day here in the Loftus house. Daddy is at work. Baby #2 is spending the day with Grandma. Baby #1 is happily occupied playing games on shockwave.com. I am working, working, working.

It's been a busy few weeks for me. Probably the busiest I have ever been, to be honest with you. At least as busy as I was last Christmas, which is sort of difficult for me to wrap my mind around. So far in August I have traveled to the other side of the country for a session, photographed my first 3 month baby plan session, hosted my family's family reunion, traveled to the Sacramento area for my cousin's (who is 28 weeks pregnant with TWINS!) baby shower, and photographed a session on the beach in Tahoe.

I believe photos are in order. This is, obviously, a tiny sampling of all I have, and yet, probably one of my biggest photo posts ever, here on this blog :)

First, DC:

What can I say? I am truly blessed to have been asked to photograph this engagement. Matt and Megan are a wonderful, beautiful couple and I can. not. wait. for their wedding at Disneyworld in December. I had never been to DC before and they were amazing tour guides. I feel like I came home knowing more about my country, on top of being given the opportunity to create photos for them.

And here we have my wonderful cousin and cousinbaby (whose relationship is Grandma and granddaughter)

Aren't they adorable? Such a happy Grandma! She's got twin grandson's on the way, and a granddaughter who just turned three, too!

Look at that adorable little red head! Expect more red headed goodness over the next year!

And another talented dancer for my studio display. I'd say, comfortably, that I am 55% finished with the photography for this display. I still have prints to select, order and hang. The majority of the work is ahead of me, and I am definitely neck deep right now.

but I'm okay with that.

Thank you for reading!

On July 29th

2008-07-30T00:46:00.000-07:00

This morning I was overcome with the emotion of the summer's end. It's less than dread, but more than avoidance, laced with sadness and kind of a happy preparation for a new beginning.

Then I realized it's not even August yet.

I am getting a little ahead of myself.

We have FOUR full, beautiful, amazing weeks of summer left. I won't clockwatch. I won't over think.

I'll Live.
*********************

I have had the most amazing couple of weeks.

Largely because of this amazing young dancer:

I am working on a display for the most amazing dance studio, and this wonderful young woman will be a part of it. We had so much fun working downtown yesterday, and we even had an audience. But who wouldn't stop and watch?

When the display is up, I'll post an official unveiling. I don't know if this is the photo I'll use, but time will tell. It's a finalist for sure.

Want more stuff? Okay!

Another totally wonderful little dancer!

Personality-o-rama at a seriously fun family shoot!

Our old friend is completely mobile! (This photo doesn't tell the whole story, because she's actually already walking really well!)

And of course, a little something for me. Trash the Dress Emily Loftus style.

This photo would not be possible without my amazingly beautiful sister, and cheap wedding dresses on ebay! There are so many photos from this shoot, but this is the only one I'll share for now. Yes we did ACTUALLY trash the dress, by way of laying in the river while wearing it. When I came home that night, I threw it in the washing machine and washed it on delicate. What did I have to lose?

IT CAME PERFECTLY CLEAN. And it still looks amazing. Expect more dress trashing in the future.

I leave on the 2nd for a few days to Washington DC. I promise to come back with photos to share.

Any calls will be returned when I return.

I am booking about a month out right now, so if you have a date in mind, call soon!

Opportunity

2008-07-11T21:37:00.000-07:00

I keep going around and around on what to say about my experience at the American Century Championship celebrity golf tournament these past few days, and I think I have to let the photos speak for themselves. I had so much fun. I met so many amazing people. I hope they ask me back next year!

Please go to the WireImage website to see them.

Wednesday's Photos

Thursday's Photos

I was one of two photographers there, so mine are credited to E. Loftus!

Sometimes

2008-07-06T21:03:00.000-07:00

People always ask me, "Do you have tons of amazing photos of your kids?" and I always tell them the truth: No, I do not.

My children are beyond jaded. They know me, they know my tricks, they're more than hip to my game. It's so rare that I get an amazing photo of them, but when I do, I treasure it.

I bought curtains for my master bedroom in August of 2007 and they have been sitting in a drawer ever since. I bought the rods to hang them in February of this year. They have been sitting on the floor in my bedroom since then.

Miraculously, yesterday, I got around to hanging them. Go figure!

They're sheer, flowy, and white and they reflect a lot of beautiful light around my room. Anyone who knows me knows that I leave no beautiful light un-photographed. And if I can photograph beautiful light, and my kids all in one shot, then I'm lucky momma, indeed.

Add one more to the Great Photos of My Kids column. :)

Time Flies

2008-06-13T00:38:00.000-07:00

I met Kelly when we were in the Fifth Grade. My best friend from fifth grade, had been her best friend from fourth grade, and we were fast friends at said friend's slumber party. We bumped into each other throughout the years, most notably at UNR where we ran in similar circles. She and her boyfriend had a class with my boyfriend. Though it seems silly to refer to either one of those men as "boyfriend" because both of them became our husbands very soon after. We lost touch at some point after each of us got married. It was years later when I was invited to a party at a friend's house, and I happened to recognize the name on the invitation. It was Kelly.

Ever since then we have remained in close contact. She's just had her third baby and I couldn't be happier for her. She is kind enough to allow me to document her family's history through portraiture and every six month, like clockwork, she books an appointment. She's faithful, appreciative and a wonderful client. Tonight, I'm burning the midnight oil editing her portrait session from today because I just can't seem to set it aside. Her children are beyond delightful.

Here's a little side-by-side comparison of photos from our session this time last year, just because I thought it was fun.

My, how a year changes things. She's grown so much. Believe it or not, this is NOT the same location. I guess there are only so many kinds of flowers that actually grow in Nevada. Haha.

Well isn't that Clever!

2008-06-01T15:09:00.000-07:00

Please, click here, and have a look at the June edition of Clever Magazine. The fashion spread on pages 12, 13 and 14 was shot by me! You can also flip ahead to page 19 to see my beautiful ad, featuring a lovely little girl in a lovely little hat.

I had an incredible time working with all the people from Clever, the models Crystal and Andi, and our wonderful makeup artist Kelly Deen. I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to work with everyone, and just to see my photos in print!

Please, let me know what you think of the issue, when you see it.

Also, have a look at a couple of outtakes . . .

A day for mothers

2008-05-11T17:35:00.000-07:00

Mother's day is a pretty cool day in our house. It's special to me, not because I'm huge on celebrating Mother's day, but because my husband has made a special point to teach the kids that it's an important day. All week long my daughter has been telling me that Mother's Day is her favorite holiday. She's been Christmas Eve Anxious all week about it. It's the cutest thing.

This morning my family treated me to a hot breakfast, my dad came by with flowers and a card, then I took the kids out for some summer clothes shopping. When we got home I got to take photos of them as they played in the front yard, the neighbor's automatic sprinklers added to the fun. There are rumors that The Man is bringing delicious take-out dinner home tonight. That's a pretty good day in my book.

So, happy mother's day to all of you. Especially you, my wonderful girlfriends, amazing clients and fabulous family, I love you all so much. I hope you've had an amazing day.

In closing, I thought I would share a happy memory about my mom.

First, you have to know a little bit about her. She initially comes across as quiet and laid back. In truth she can be quiet and laid back, but oh! when she's not.

The truth is, my mom is one of the most hilarious people I know.

My Memory:
I am nine years old. We are walking together, across a quiet street. We are on vacation. We're discussing how you can swing a bucket full of water upside down and the water won't fly out. Mom says, "Why is it when I swing my purse around like this (swings purse) nothing falls out?" We laugh. She continues, "But when I do this (opens purse, turns it upside down, shakes vigorously) everything falls out?"

Happy Mother's Day, Mom! I love you!

This is my favorite photo of my her. I took it at my son's birthday party a year and a half ago. He was born in October, and that year we had a costume party for his birthday. My mom doesn't usually wear a hat, but for Halloween my mom, my sister and I all dressed up as my little brother.

So New

2008-05-07T11:16:00.000-07:00

Last week was the busiest week I have had so far this year. All of it has carried over into this week and I'm still tying up the loose ends over a cup of coffee and loud-ish music. I have the house the myself, windows open and a kitty cat for company. Life is good.

Things come in waves, I have noticed. Lately, all of my sessions are for babies, all but one of those babies are girls, too!

But it had been awhile since I've photographed a First Born. There's something different about your first baby. Everything is new. Beautifully naive, you wake each morning to a new adventure. As a mom of two who are growing way too fast, it was neat for me to be given the opportunity to remember the first days of my first born's life in a new way.

Here she is. The most beautiful strawberry blonde baby, ever!

This second shot was inspired by the photo I am about to post, from my first session of the week. I love both variations of this image.

The second baby of the week was the first baby boy I have photographed in quite some time. The third child in his family and the very first boy! He's a big guy, gorgeous hair, full fat cheeks. I didn't set this image up intentionally at all. She was actually rocking him to sleep and I just could not resist.

Expect more photos of both of these beautiful babies in the future!

The other things I did last week are so super fun and exciting that I am saving a certain special day to share them with the Whole Big World. I really can't wait!

That Shot

2008-04-19T16:53:00.000-07:00

There's a little girl who lives here in town, who I happen to adore. Not only is she gorgeous, with a beautiful smile and delightfully chubby thighs, she's also super easy to take cute photos of. Last time you saw her, she was a tiny-tiny little thing, all curled up and new.

This time, she's . . . just . . . adorable:

Who can resist that sweet face? WHO?

So, with the posting of this photo, I would like to add: Millers Photo Lab is having a photo contest for babies and kids under 12 years of age. I can enter one photo per session, until June 21. The grand prize winner gets $5,000! There are smaller monetary prizes for the category winners, too. No the money is NOT for me, it's for you! So, I will enter my favorite photo from each session between now and June 21, into the contest for you. I'll pick the photo that I think is most likely to win, and keep you abreast of your standings in the competition!

If you've already had a session this year, I went ahead and put an entry in the contest already, including the above photo of our gorgeous friend!

Everchanging

2008-04-14T12:02:00.000-07:00

I have so many exciting things brewing, not the least of which is the new Baby Collection. I am so excited to offer this, finally! I've been thinking about it for quite some time, but finally got the jump start I needed, so I am on my way. The extra exciting news is that I already have a couple of takers! Yay!

Here's what you need to know: for the price of $299 you get THREE photo sessions in your baby's first year. They can be used whenever you like, but 3 months, 6 months and 1 year are when I recommend them. Then, at the end of the year, you get one photo from each session framed together in a beautiful custom matted frame.

BUT THERE IS MORE!
If you book while you're still expecting you can add a maternity or newborn session for free! So that's a total of four sessions, plus 3 prints in the matted frame for $299! Pretty good deal if you ask me :)

Also, since this is a new creation, I'd like to extend a gift to my first group of takers: 25 custom birth announcements free! They will be available to all clients who book their Baby Collection by June 1, 2008.

This is the fine print - which is totally normal sized, in case you didn't notice.

Baby Collection sessions must all be used for the same child.
If you would like to add parents or siblings to the shoot, you may do so at a fee of $40 per session.
Baby Collection sessions expire when your child reaches 16 months of age.
Free newborn sessions MUST take place before the newborn reaches two weeks of age.
I reserve the right to change the conditions of this offer at any time, prices are subject to change without notice, blah blah blah.

I think you should join! :)

I Am Such A Lucky Neighbor/Auntie/Photographer

2008-04-05T20:08:00.000-07:00

I am so blessed to have an amazing array of gorgeous people to photograph everyday. In this case, these people, are some of my nearest and dearest.

First of all, meet my delightful, wonderful, beautiful cousin. She and I have been the best of friends, well, forever. She trusted me with the most important photography job of all, her wedding, two years ago. Now, she is due to have her first baby, a sweet little girl, on June 2nd. Last weekend I made her let me take photos of her, which she didn't mind. She's kind of a ham that way.

Second, meet Petunia. You've seen her before, you probably just don't know it. Her Momma, who happens to be my neighbor and dear friend, brings her over frequently so I can make Petunia giggle, and she can pee-pee on my bed.

Her real name isn't Petunia, in case you were wondering. Her momma is cool, but not that cool. As far as I'm concerned, though, it's All Petunia All The Time.

Enjoy:

Bear With Me

2008-03-25T21:57:00.000-07:00

I am doing a lot of changes on the website tonight, so if you log in and find white text on a white page, or some other semi-annoying in-between-ish sort of thing, forgive me.

When I am finished you'll see new colors, new photos and a new gallery just for newborn photos. I hope to make the blog look like it fits the look sometime soon, too. But I seem to run out of time everyday.

I wake up in the morning, positive and completely convinced that I'm going to accomplish everything there is to accomplish. Somewhere between waking up optimistic and going to bed completely zonked, I realize that I set my standards higher than I should. Somewhere between 7 am and 11 pm I realize I still haven't taken the pirate flags from my daughter's birthday party in January, down from my kitchen window. It's true. I'll own it.

With any luck, all of the website updating will be finished by weeks' end.

If you received a post card from me last week, now is the time to go ahead and call to book your sessions at the discounted rate. In the meantime, please enjoy a photo of my beautiful new packaging materials.

Of Babies and Birthdays

2008-03-18T16:36:00.001-07:00

When my daughter turned six in January, I endeavored to make her birthday cake myself, for the first time. I wanted to make it for a variety of reasons, the primary reason being the memories of my mom-made cakes as a child. Nearly every one of my childhood birthdays was punctuated by the 9x13 cake in a Pyrex pan, glowing with the appropriate number-candle, unpolished and simple. I wanted to make the cake because it felt like the perfect way to pass a bit of who I am on to her.

So I constructed six dressed-up cake mix layers into three gold doubloon cakes for a girly-pirate birthday party at home. The cake was a hit, and I felt more accomplished than I thought I would. It's the same sort of accomplishment I feel when I pack a special lunch for no important reason, or think up a game on a Sunday afternoon. A special sort of mommy-accomplishment. I never feel it when I buy something expensive or do something extraordinary. This sense of accomplishment is reserved for the beautifully imperfect, the extra-specially normal. The best thing about being a mom, is that these moments are always present, if you watch for them.

Myself

2008-02-29T19:29:00.000-08:00

At this moment I am sitting down to a mountain of post processing, a glass of diet pepsi and John Mayer. My office is messy, as usual, but cleared of unwanted distractions. The music is probably louder than you'd think and the images as physical objects are secondary to the process of creating them and the memories therein. These are the moments when I feel the most content, the most at home. When I feel the most like myself.

I am myself when I can sit and think, and when I can create without rules or restriction. I am myself when I can dwell in the fullness of the meaning of a photo.

Every session is deeply meaningful to me. I annoy myself sometimes with the amount of time I'll spend talking about every minute detail of every session I do, with every person who will listen. God bless my husband! Every session stirs something within me and I just can't keep the stories to myself. I like to talk, what can I say? Anyone who knows or has worked with me can attest to that. (I apologize! ha!)

After what has turned out to be a rather lengthy vacation, I had my first opportunity to shoot an entire session in 2008, last week. A very special, rather important session, at that.

My amazing niece Holly's senior portraits.

As I sit here working on the images from her session, I laugh, remembering a semi-obnoxious 7 year old in the backseat of the car, demonstration her dolphin laugh for us, over and over and over again. I remember Christmases and birthdays, holding her the day she was born, and last 4th of July when we laughed uncontrollably in my mom's living room for at least an hour straight.

All of this makes me realize the weight of a portrait. A frozen moment. When I see a beautiful photo I remember that day, the days before it and after. My emotional memory fills in every blank with perfect accuracy. I don't know a better way to document my own history.

I hope you document yours, too.

Take photos often. Print them! Look at them and remember. We won't ever have today back.

New Post, News Post

2008-02-07T22:51:00.000-08:00

As of this afternoon, nine framed Fine Art prints from Yours Truly are hanging at The Purple Bean Too on Robb Drive in Northwest Reno.

I don't know for sure how long they'll be there, so please go check them out! The prices are super cheap, partially because it's my first big exhibition of artwork, but mostly because I really just want to see most of the pieces sold. Prices are as low as $35. I think it's worth checking out, but of course I do. I'm me! haha!

If you have an occasion to grab a coffee, pass on Starbucks just this once and stop on in to The Purple Bean. Have something to drink, take a look at the artwork and tell everyone I said hello!

Down Time

2008-01-07T20:35:00.000-08:00

Down time can be equally as stressful as it is satisfying for me. Somehow, with all the craziness of Christmas it just doesn't seem right to literally have NOWHERE to be, just a couple weeks after the fact. Nowhere at all. The snowstorm has complicated matters further by making it ridiculously difficult to get out and about. Cabin Fever is a term I have become very familiar with this past week.

So I am home, hard at work on new marketing materials, a possible showcase of my artwork photography, and an entirely revamped pricing structure that will include packages for the first time ever.

Just tonight I've discovered a whole chunk of blogs that interest me. Namely, the blogs of a wonderful group of old friends. I don't know how I have been in the dark this long, but I'm all inspired now, to keep things here looking brighter and updated more regularly. Who knows how long inspiration will last, but for now, it's alive and well.

The sad news? There are NO new photos to share. Not one.

Do you want to know why?

So did I!

I cannot load any photos onto my computer. Nothing from Christmas has even seen the light of day. I asked the husband for help, and in the least-most helpful way, he told me that I was having "motherboard issues." Thanks darling, glad to know it. What's a motherboard?

I'm only half-serious, of course. In theory, I know exactly what he's talking about. In practice, I'm hopeless. All of this amounts to me getting a new computer by week's end. After completely filling a hard drive this year, I was due, anyway.

Look forward to more photos, faster, in 2008! ha!

Since my artwork is on my mind, enjoy these two photos from the summer of 2005:

I can breathe again!

2007-12-28T12:52:00.000-08:00

The holidays were just beyond crazy for me this year. Don't get me wrong, now, that's a good thing. A very good thing. But at the same time I am very glad to be able to breathe again. I had wonderful sessions with many wonderful people this year and truly cannot wait to see what 2008 will bring.

After I finished 2007's 45th session and delivered the last of my orders, I caught up on laundry. In the days leading up to Christmas I washed an embarassing 23 loads and, once again, can see the floor in my laundry room. It's just as beautiful as I remembered it was. I even mopped!

I am planning to be officially off the clock through January 10, and catch up on everything else that I got behind on, including bedtime story reading and momma's-lap-webkinz-marathons.

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday and will have a great new year. If you want a session in January or February, give me a call. I'll return phone calls, but probably won't mess with e-mails until I get back on the 10th.

Thank you all so much for making '07 a great year for me and my family, and I look forward to this next year.

I send you off with the most glorious thighs I have ever laid eyes on:

More Tiny Babies

2007-09-30T16:17:00.000-07:00

Dear Pregnant Women,

Please have me come take photos of your brand new babies, because I'm really growing to love it!

Sincerely,

Emily Loftus

These photos, and the ones in my previous post were both taken before the little one was a week old.

Midnight Oil

2007-09-05T23:11:00.000-07:00

Well, it's not midnight yet, but I may be pulling an after midnight-er tonight. Proofing stacks up sometimes and now is the perfect time to get myself caught up.

I am really excited about some new, exciting things that are happening this fall. The first big news is my new (to me) Emily Loftus Photography mobile. It's a super cute Otter-Pop-Blue Mini Cooper S, that will soon bear my logo. Keep your eye out for it around town, but don't laugh at me when you see me stall it 9 times in an intersection. It's my first car with a clutch.

There is more news, too, but I'll save it for another day. Right now, though, I should remind you to think about Christmas card photos soon! The last date to book a session for by-Christmas delivery is December 2nd. There are still lots of dates left, so no worries yet, but do think about it.

So now, enjoy this tiny little angel. I am pretty sure my kids were never this little:

You Can't Plan These Things

2007-08-17T13:09:00.000-07:00

I often tell people that doing what I do is just about being ready with the camera when the moments happen. You can rarely coax a kid to do That Perfect Thing, in order to get That Perfect Photo.

Most every session, though, I have a moment. Usually I'm not completely paying attention. I'm chatting away with a young client's mom, when I see something perfect. I usually approach the shot calmly and just let the child be themselves.

This shot developed that way. Girl 1 was being herself, Girl 2 saw that Girl 1 was having her photo taken and jumped in on the action, then Girl 3 came along and gave the pair of them a big squeeze. There is no way on earth I could have posed this shot.

Sometimes the best advice I can give to Moms who want to take great photos of their kids, is just have your camera ready when moments happen all on their own. Don't pick up the camera with big plans, pick it up with a willingness to observe and create. These moments can't be faked or re-staged, so be ready!

Deep Breath

2007-08-09T23:03:00.000-07:00

Someone please tell me summer isn't almost over. Tell me that I still have weeks to enjoy the yard, and the kids, and the weather. Please.

Do you want to know the truth? The truth is that I'm kind of having a hard time knowing I am sending my baby off to Kindergarten in a couple weeks. Kind of, a lot. I suppose the drawback of having your babies just barely over a year apart is that you get all the big milestones thrown on you all at once. So now I'm sort of rolling the emotion of it all around in my head and digging in my heels.

I'm breathing deep, sighing those long, heavy sighs, and hanging on to every last moment. I really don't feel ready. But maybe I'm just being dramatic. I have been known to be dramatic from time to time, go figure.

There, I said it.

On to business: I had one of the craziest sessions I have ever done on Tuesday. The crazy index is indicated by the sheer number of blurry photos I sorted through to pick out the goodies. These three (gorgeous) children were active, happy and downright hard to keep up with! They were also a ton of fun.

They climbed trees, spun me on the merry-go-round and let me push them on the swings. Oh, and they also let me take their photos!

Lucky Shot of the Day:

The Last Week Wrap Up, a couple days late!

2007-07-03T13:27:00.000-07:00

The portrait event went satisfyingly well. Despite a few last minute cancellations everyone arrived on time and in great spirits. My wonderful helpers really worked hard and I was able to accomplish a lot in a very short amount of time. I only got a little behind on the first night, but all subjects and parents were understanding and patient. If I'm being honest, my biggest fear was not being able to get the promised ten proofs per kid, but there wasn't a single problem in that respect. In fact, I didn't give any family less than 12 proofs and some got more!

I have to laugh because 12 proofs seems like hardly any to me now. I keep thinking, "That's all? Just 12 proofs?" Then I think about my days as a mall-photo-studio-rat and remember that we only got five photos in a 20 minute session. ONLY FIVE! I can't imagine asking my clients to choose from five photos now!

So here they are, a little taste of the Portrait Event.

Thank you to EVERYONE who came! Let's do it again sometime!

Longest Day of the Year!

2007-06-21T18:52:00.000-07:00

I'm tempted to sit outside and wait until the exact moment the sun goes down tonight, just so I can really soak in the last moments of this Longest Day of the Year. It's hard to believe that 2007 has reached it's peak and the days will slowly begin to dwindle from here on out. I've never marked the first day of summer in any meaningful way before, maybe this will be the year.

Today was hot and cloudless, just as the first official day of summer should be, I suppose. My kids talked me into a trip to Reno's brand-spanking-new Build-a-Bear Workshop and we came home with one pink kitty cat, one brown bear, take-out chicken and a video to pass the evening.

Tomorrow at this time I'll be at Rancho San Rafael with a crowd of my favorite people, doing my thing, as it were, and undoubtedly having a total blast.

So, enjoy the first day of Summer! Roast a marshmallow for me, and I'll see you all tomorrow night!

Portrait Event

2007-06-14T23:26:00.000-07:00

Well, we're getting down to the wire for the portrait event and I still haven't had a lot of interest! It's amazing that sometimes you do things that you really think won't amount to much and they blow up - and others seem like they'll be HUGE and they just . . . aren't.

So, if you want to book an appointment for the portrait event call me, asap! I'd like to keep it as scheduled, but if interest isn't there, I'll likely just cancel it.

In other news I have several sessions this coming week, so be ready for fun new pictures!

Chelsea Williams

2007-06-04T20:15:00.000-07:00

About a year ago my favorite independent singer/songwriter Chelsea Williams generously allowed me to use her song Follow Me Too on my website. I have gotten so many compliments on the site music and feel truly blessed to be able to use Chelsea's amazing song along with my photography.

She's a little Jewel and a little Patty Griffin. Beautiful songwriting with a clear, honest quality to her voice. For me Chelsea is as good as they come.

Chelsea's primary fan base is on Myspace, but I have a feeling that she'll be seeing some much deserved recognition very soon. Starting now, her songs are available on iTunes. So please, show Chelsea some love and download a song or two. My favorites are I'm Rubber, You're Glue, I Can See It Now and of course, Follow Me Too.

http://www.myspace.com/chelseawilliams

I'll leave you with that for tonight. For your viewing pleasure, a couple sneak peaks at my new marketing materials . . .

Update-o-rama

2007-06-01T16:59:00.000-07:00

Let's just get something out of the way here:

I'm so loving this shot. Seriously, it is such a gift to be able to look at this image and feel like it belongs to me, but blesses someone else. I feel like an idiot for gushing over my own photography, though, so I should probably zip it right . . . now. Just look at the photo and pretend I said nothing :)

Ok, on to topic #2:

MEET INES!

Ines is an incredibly beautiful, intelligent and talented Class of 2007 graduate and she's going to work with me this summer! She'll be off to Washington for school at the end of the summer, but before we lose her to academia, she's decided to dedicate some of her time to learning natural light photography with yours truly.

There is no hiding my appreciation for this young woman. She's down-to-earth in the perfect way for a teenager to be, she loves photography, and aspires to amazing things. Hopefully all of you will get a chance to meet Ines this summer.

Topic #3:

The plans for the Portrait Event are firm and printed on real post cards! Expect one in the mail sometime soon, and if you don't get one, e-mail me your address. I am also putting them in several Starbucks locations around town along with a couple other places us moms frequent.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Finally, I leave you with this piece of CUTE to ponder:

There will be more this weekend

2007-05-25T17:02:00.001-07:00

But right now I want to say that I am 90% certain that the location for the June 22nd and 23rd portrait party will be Rancho San Rafael.

What Emily? You say. What? You're shooting at Rancho San Rafael? I KNOW! I always tell people, "I don't shoot there, if I can avoid it." But I think this is the perfect occasion to work there. It's centrally located, public, there are shady places to shoot before the light is right. I think it will work well, and will be a good starting point for my first official portrait party. Sound good?

I have checked every city calendar I can find and it appears that there aren't any major special events there, so it should be set. I will call on Tuesday to double check that there isn't anything scheduled that will put us in the middle of a mess.

That's all for now.

Ah Youth!

2007-05-24T11:33:00.000-07:00

Man, what I wouldn't give to have a newborn baby session every week, I don't know. Newborn session are just so - so - PERFECT. Peaceful, beautiful and intimate. Everything perfect portraits should be, in my humble opinion.

I was blessed to be able to take portraits of this gorgeous 6 day old baby yesterday and I just can't stop working on these images. My poor children would like to eat sometime today, but I can't tear myself away from the computer. Ok, not really, that's a complete joke, but seriously - have a look. You won't be able to tear yourself away, either:

I'm in love with this session right now! And there are so many more! (There are some on the website, too!)

On a more personal note, we still don't have grass, but we have a patio, patio furniture, edging and a couple shrubs! We're almost there. The dead shoes were sent to shoe heaven last night, as a matter of fact, and now I'm down to vans and flip flops for summer. ha! Now I'm off to put two things together - post cards for the portrait party on June 22 and 23, and invitations for my nephew's first birthday party in July.

What are you doing June 22 and 23?

2007-05-22T18:59:00.000-07:00

Am I busy? I honestly don't even know anymore. I'm doing something, I just don't remember what. heh. I just finished up what I think will be my last senior portrait session for the class of 2007. Congratulations to all of you graduates!

I have a little Kindergarten graduate of my own this year, too. But I'd better stop talking about that or I'll start crying. Again. That's actually a complete exaggeration. I haven't even cried yet. I guess we'll save that for The Big Day.

So on to business:

The good news is that I have news.

Item #1:
Portrait party! FINALLY! I realize I have been saying that this would happen for MONTHS now, and I'm finally getting my act together and doing it. Cards will go out next week, but here's the information I have as of now. The party will be held two evenings - Friday and Saturday June 22 and 23. Parties will start around 6 pm and will last until the light does. Probably 8:30 or 9pm. Location TBD. Soon. Very soon.

Sessions will last approximately 20 minutes and will cost $60. The session INCLUDES an 8x10 print, so this is a great way to try me out for the first time, or get a little portrait fix between bigger sessions, without a big financial commitment. Sessions are for no more than 3 people and only for people 18 and under, since I really need more time to get a good variety on a family portrait session. If you have more than three kids, give me a call and we'll figure something out.

Everyone will get 8-12 proofs in an online gallery (on my website! in my fresh new online gallery section!)

Call if you want to book a spot for your children now!

Item #2:
I am starting to get lots of calls for Class of '08 Seniors. If you guys want Fall sessions, call now, because my days are already filling up in September and October. (this goes for everyone else, too, I suppose)

Item #3:
Pretty soon I'll be formally introducing my fabulous interns to you guys! I just need to get these kids out for sessions so I have photos of them to share!

Isn't this picture very James Dean-esque? I thought so.

Pretty New Website!

2007-04-23T23:25:00.001-07:00

It's live and it's very pretty! I suggest you go check it out!

www.emilyloftus.com

New Website

2007-04-23T08:56:00.000-07:00

Watch for the new site. It should be live sometime today. *crossing fingers*

The Weather in Reno

2007-04-21T17:27:00.000-07:00

You never can count on Spring in Springtime, here in the high desert. You CAN, however, count on Spring in winter and Spring in Autumn at least one week each year.

Right now we have what feels like full-blown winter in Spring. Not fun. Especially not fun for The Crazy Neighbors (that would be us!) who are installing their backyard irrigation system in the middle of all of this.

Luckily for me, I can bow out of it all with my typical busy life. So many things to do, friends to entertain, photos to edit. Hey, this work-from-home thing is even better than I first thought, it's totally getting me out of sprinkler duty.

I had an amazing session with a group of beautiful young women early this week. We lucked out when we scheduled our session for the one day of the week that ended up with a good light-to-temperature ratio. Unfortunately, I had to cancel all the rest of my outdoor sessions for the week, so this was the one I got.

I am NOT disappointed:

then yesterday, there was this little cutie:

What a cute little ham, he is!

A piece of advice

2007-04-15T19:15:00.000-07:00

So remember how I was dampening the ground for sprinkler-trench-digging day? Yeah, that? Bad idea. It also rained and snowed that night, which turned the yard into a mud pit (with a cute pair of ballet flats stuck somewhere in the middle). Trenchers don't like to dig trenches in the mud. They like to get stuck.

The good news is that after that minor setback we appear to be back in business. I watched The Man dig today, whilst I put together the new site with the help of my wonderful neighbor-friend.
So, moving on . . .

I have been so satisfied with my sessions lately. Just pleased and happy to see everything come together the way it has. It's very rewarding to watch something you had a part in creating, make someone smile. This has been a good week with lots of those moments in it.

Spring is shaping up to be a good time, I think. I definitely have a portrait party going on the books in the next couple days. The weather and my absent mind were never on the same page this year, and I never followed through on the promised snow-sessions! Sorry to anyone who was counting on those. :(

If you're wanting a session in April, call now, I'm almost full. May looks good, though, so book away!

Long time no Me

2007-04-11T23:25:00.000-07:00

You would have laughed at me tonight, had you been a star in the sky, watching me trip around my muddy backyard in my beat up ballet flats and too long jeans. Tomorrow will be sprinkler-trench-digging day and my meager job was to move the hose around whilst it dampened the rock-solid ground of our backyard.

Maybe I was just being absent minded, or perhaps it's past my bed time, but I apparently forgot that wet dirt equals mud and that mud equals STUCK BALLET FLAT. Stuck ballet flat equals muddy foot, which equals muddy jeans, and then (of course!) Muddy Emily! Whee! You would have laughed. I did.

At any rate, I'm over here burning the midnight oil building my NEW and IMPROVED website, as I type. Not to worry, I washed my feet and replaced my muddy jeans with pjs.

I have so many beautiful new images to share, but I'm saving all of them for the new site. I can't wait until it's ready! Stay tuned, please!

ugh!

2007-01-14T10:06:00.000-08:00

My website is down. I have no clue what can be done about it, but I'm guessing we'll have to wait until Tuesday for anything to happen.

I will be sending a little notice about a winter portrait party soon, so if anyone wants to get on the mailing list here's a way for you to do that:

Quick update

2007-01-11T10:50:00.000-08:00

I've had a post sitting here waiting to be posted since mid-december, but I just can't seem to get around to posting it. Now, it's horribly outdated.

I have lots of pictures to post and lots to talk about, but today is my day to be the Kindergarten mommy and I'm headed out the door.

The news for now is: I will be closed February 6-13. That's all for this present moment. Hopefully I'll make time to do some more fun bloggy stuff tonight.

I am alive

2006-12-11T13:23:00.000-08:00

I'm here.

I made it through Thanksgiving with 20 people well fed and lots and lots of leftovers. I can't take all the credit, though, because my family did bring a pile of food, too. I'm still as busy as ever and am happily working my way through the holiday season.

I'm sure there is a pile of things I could say or share, but these two photos pretty much sum it up. Life is good.

Are we there yet?

2006-11-19T16:25:00.000-08:00

It's been another busy weekend for me, on top of the fact that I had my neighbor kids overnight on Friday and all day Saturday, along with my nephew on both those days. This weekend I re-learned that it's not very smart to assume you'll get any work done when there is an awake baby in the house. I knew that at one point, but somehow managed to convince myself that I'd be able to handle things around here AND work on images. Not smart. I ended up crashing on the couch last night way before my usual bed time.

But it's finally quiet here, and I get to concentrate on work. (Not for long, though, because starting tomorrow I have to concentrate on planning a Thanksgiving meal for 20 people!) Even my two are quietly resting and watching a movie. So I'm playing iTunes, drinking coffee and zooming through the pile of photos I have to edit. Ahhh . . . Almost as good as a nap!

This weekend I took two sessions that I couldn't wait to edit. I love it when that happens!

These two sisters are too cute for words. I just love the dynamic between the two of them. This image was supposed to be of the baby alone, but of course, big sis had to plug herself into that equation.

In this session I took a couple posed shots here and then stepped back to watch the family interact. I love this image for it's authenticity.

PS
Clearly, I'm going through a black and white phase.

Someone you should know

2006-11-12T00:59:00.000-08:00

My wonderful friend Cassie, is an amazingly talented photographer - and I think you might like to know her:

http://cassiefoxphotography.blogspot.com/

Re: Christmas Cards

2006-11-11T22:47:00.000-08:00

I am a complete Christmas card junkie. I spend the better part of October planning what I'll do for my Christmas cards. Actually, that's kind of a lie, because last year I ordered my Christmas cards in June.

Life is only more exciting now that I have my own business and clients, and therefore an opportunity for MORE Christmas cards. Wheee!

I am so in love with my business Christmas cards for 2006 that I can't handle myself. I want to mail them out yesterday. In fact, I have been carrying one in my purse and showing it off every chance I get. I really don't want to ruin the surprise for anyone, but I TOTALLY WANT TO RUIN THE SURPRISE FOR EVERYONE.

So, I am pacifying myself, by posting this photo and saying this: This is one of five photos that comprise my Christmas Card this year. I snagged this shot after the session was technically over, and the kids were all getting into their car to go. I almost bought my daughter a coat with a fur-trimmed hood the other day because I've been dying to grab this exact shot. So when I saw the coats come out, I wasn't about to waste my opportunity.

So here it is:

The only reason I babysit

2006-11-10T10:23:00.000-08:00

It's Vetrans Day, and there is no school. I've got a house full of my favorite kids in town, and a memory card just begging to be crammed full with kid pictures.

Four more sessions this weekend and I'm almost completely finished with Christmas sessions. How strange, it's not even Thanksgiving and I'm almost finished with Christmas.

Because I'm Quirky!

2006-11-05T23:13:00.000-08:00

The first of the Christmas Cram-in sessions are edited and online galleries have been posted. Wheee! I have decided to call them Cram-in sessions, because I crammed them in after I realized my original deadline was a teet too early! I just have this week and next weekend and then I'm finished for the Christmas season.

I had two sessions yesterday, and one was for my fabulous neighbor T, who I know is out there reading. So, today's entry is for you, my fellow quirky neighbor-person. Thanks for braving the elements with me, yesterday. Who would have thought that a wetland would be so wet? And thanks for listening to me yap (and yap, and yap) between frames. I tend to do that.

On to the pictures!
I just love this kid. She's funny, rambunctious, confident and bright.

and the gorgeous blue eyes don't hurt!

This face might not ring a bell right away, but it is a familiar one! I took her photos for the first time last March and one shot from that session became the single most commented on and talked about photo in my portfolio within days of putting it up on my website. (you can see it on my site, under moms and babies, it's the first one in the gallery!) Yesterday was my second time working with her, and between clothing changes, she decided to take a minute and raid the pantry. This one is just too cute to be an outtake:

Too cute for words!

Good night!

I intend to sleep until ten tomorrow. That's totally not going to happen, but a girl can dream can't she ;)

My boy

2006-10-27T15:52:00.000-07:00

We made a deal. He'd smile for me, and I would let him use my camera to take a couple of pictures. Heh.

Happy Family!

2006-10-25T01:06:00.000-07:00

Tonight I had the wonderful opportunity to photograph one of my very best friends, and her beautiful family. She and I have known each other for at least 15 years and have been the best of friends for more than half our lives.

I don't advertise myself as a family photographer primarily because my true joy, as a photographer, is the genuine expression that only a child really gives. I love shooting families, who aren't afraid to interact with one another, in front of my lens, though.

Tonight's shoot was a real treat for just that reason. And the fall colors sure don't hurt.

Announcement

2006-10-19T23:29:00.000-07:00

After nearly two months and many, MANY phone calls back and forth with my wireless service provider my phone is finally back in working order. It's the same number as it always has been!

Ah! Back to work!

First Post

2006-10-17T14:49:00.000-07:00

I feel, in some way, obligated to write a long "Wow! My first post! I can't believe I have a blog"-thing, but the truth is I'm a total blog junkie. (Blogkie?) I have a personal blog, and now I've joined the wave of wonderful artists in my field who also have business related photoblogs. Yeeee ha!

So for my first post, I think I should let the world know a little about who I am.

My name is Emily Loftus. I am an artist, wife and mother. In my youth I thought I might grow up to be someone famous. The famous thing went away when I remembered how much I *don't* love auditioning for roles. I still sing my butt off at home, and the children think I'm strange.

I worked as a photographer in a national chain portrait studio during 2003 and 2004, and found myself LOVING the work, but eventually hating the constraints of the work. (I'm sure I'll get into all that in more detail someday) I have been an avid photographer my entire life and wanted to bust out of the mold and do something for myself. Finally, one day, the courage to make a change in my life came upon me, almost in a flash, and I did it. I put myself out there and have been working on my own ever since. My business has grown and changed a lot since I started it, and I work now in a totally different way from how I worked when I began. I started out with a mish-mash of equipment and no real direction. Now, I work exclusively with natural light, and my subjects are 95% people under the age of 21. The other 5% are the parents of my younger clients.

I am a wife of nearly 7 years now, to my best friend. A mother of two young children aged 6 and 4. I am a native of Reno, Nevada and can't imagine myself feeling at home anywhere else. I have three fabulous cats and a wonderful extended family. That family consists of a sister, with whom I am VERY close, a brother who is an amazingly talented singer and songwriter, and two great parents who have been happily married for 27 years and who keep me smiling, laughing and loved all the time.

2006 has been a remarkable year for me professionally. My business is growing like I never dreamed it would and I am extremely proud of how I've grown and progressed.

I shoot exclusively with natural light, and work primarily in my clients' homes.

So, I invite you to join me as I grow, learn and create. I look forward to getting to know many new people through this blog, and I hope that you all get to know me.

Next time, less yapping. MORE PICTURES!