Jenna Stevens Photography Blog

Spring Love | Joey + Melinda | Minnesota Photographer

2011-06-01T10:44:00.000-07:00

Silence is golden ... that is unless you write a blog! Epic fail! I need to resuscitate, give some love to the blog -- my last post was in October! Sheesh. Sooo ... I bring you another love-filled event. A wedding. A classically, elegant bride meets a handsome and traditional groom. I don't shoot many weddings a year and the ones that I do, I cherish. I love getting to know the couple and building a relationship with them. After having three kids with my own groom, it's great to go back in time and relive those beginning moments, a rekindling of my own feelings and decision to marry my man. In that way, my couples bless me greatly.

Melinda and Joey did just that on their special day in May. It was going to be a lovely outdoor wedding at a country club in Lakeville but the wind made it chilly and the chance of rain moved the ceremony inside. It was a last minute decision so the ceremony took place in the reception hall. I think it was beautiful. And I love how graceful Melinda and Joey were. Planning for a big event like a wedding takes lots of time ... not to mention the dream that was envisioned. But I saw them move it indoors without a problem. The bigger picture, the understanding that no matter where the ceremony took place, was seen on their faces. They got it. No matter where it was, it was still Melinda walking down the aisle to Joey's arms. It was beautiful. And why wouldn't it be? They had the tables dressed so nicely. Understated elegance.

I love these special moments between mother and daughter ...

I was privileged to marry a man who is multi-talented. We get some good grub at our house since he went to culinary school, and having known the bride beforehand, they commissioned him to make their wedding cake. Oh it was amazing (I know, he made extra so we had some at home) - espresso fudge or something like that. He could spin words so delicately together that he would have your mouth watering by now just by describing it. Sorry, you're stuck with me and "espresso fudge". :)

I love love LOVED Melinda's choice in color - ok, and Joey's, just in case he had a hand in it too! Don't want to leave him out. I have a man that was involved with every decision but my dress so I know there are those guys out there! :) I love green, it's my absolute favorite color, and the accents were perfect for this May ceremony! The wedding felt so clean and new.

I have to say that I thought it was pretty cool that the guests gathered at their assigned tables and enjoyed the ceremony from there. It was comfortable and easy.

I'm in love with this shot. The warmth in the tones and the focus on the simple details of their hands and her dress. It's these details that shine through and show their love.

They were insistant upon not seeing one another until the ceremony so while the guests mingled, we got to run around the golf course! :)

Last but not least, the dance. It was a moment for sure. I great moment.

Joey and Melinda, it was a joy and an honor to be a part of your special day. You two are a perfect match for one another. May your life be filled with happiness that knows no bounds. And now that you've made it out of the sticks, Melinda -- don't forget to stay in touch. :) Isaac and I are so thankful for knowing you guys. God's richest blessings to you!

With Love,

Ahnna and Kyle ... Married!

2010-10-06T13:20:00.000-07:00

As I sit and move through the images of this special couples day, it brings back memories for me. It wasn't so long ago that I was in their shoes. Excited to marry the man God placed in my life. Ahnna reflected such joy and peace on her wedding day. It wasn't about everything being perfect. It wasn't about being on time (although everything was!). It was about enjoying each moment that was presented to her. She was full of laughter. They were so in love. It was time. Time to start their life together. And this day was such a representation of all that they are. It was a blessing in my life to be able to be a part of it!

I am still in the process of finishing the images from this great day, thanks in part to the recent MN floods (the basement got a decent indoor pool) as well as some personal matters that my family has had to attend to. Every time I open up the computer to sift through these images, it brings me back to that day. I hope that you get a glimpse into the love that Ahnna and Kyle share.

I absolutely adored this dress! Everything about it ... Gorgeous! And wait unti you see Ahnna in it. It gets even better!

I always love the guy shots. So cool, so tough.

Simply put: divine. Loved the bridesmaid dresses, loved the flowers, loved the girls!

Just look at that train ... on the dress!

Sneaking some kisses and poses.

Details, details ...

Ahnna just couldn't stop dancing! She was so happy! I don't blame her.

Thanks so much, Ahnna and Kyle, for allowing me in to your special day. It was truly an honor for me. And thank you for your patience while I tend to things on the homefront. :) Can't wait to get all the images done for you!

With Love,
J

Holiday Petite Sessions!

2010-08-06T08:37:00.000-07:00

If you are looking to have just a quick session to update your family portrait to send out holiday cards...then this would be a great option for you. You can email me with questions or to book your session at hello@jennastevens.net.

Have a great day!

Yearly Fun ... for me!

2010-07-02T20:00:00.000-07:00

So, I don't normally whip out my camera at my kids at every turn. I think I have something against paparazzi and don't want to become one to my kids. I want them to enjoy it when I take their pictures, not roll their eyes and cringe. So, for the most part my kids love it when I turn the lens on them and take shots of them. I always here, "I wanna see! I wanna see!" after one snap is taken. It's great fun for me to see them excited because I am always excited to have the camera in hand, especially when I get to see their beautiful faces on the other side!

I have gotten in the habit of taking each one of them out (usually seperately) and doing their "formal" portraits for the year. They are each excited and love doing it! While we were in Montana I chose this time to take advantage of unusual spots, interesting alleys, and foreign scenery to create the backdrop for their images. We all piled in the car with Nana and drove the town scouting for some great places. I was not disappointed. So, please take a gander at Leslie, age 5; and Drew, age 2 1/2! *Oliver fell asleep in the car so his first year portraits will be done at a later date.

Aren't they adorable? Ok, so I'm biased but please! Look at those faces! I don't know how I can resist them and not just give them whatever they want all the time! ::Sigh:: LOVE THEM!

Enjoy your holiday weekend and be safe!!

Ahnna + Kyle

2010-07-02T19:32:00.000-07:00

Last week I had the privilege of getting together with an upcoming bride and groom for a super fun country-fied engagement session! They are gearing up for their wedding in September and I can't wait for it! Ahnna is a hoot and up for anything! Kyle wasn't too keen on the evening at first but I think I wooed him over and he finally admitted to having fun ... uh-oh. I promised I wouldn't say anything. Shhhh! That's just between us, ok? ;)

I just love it when my clients just want to have fun and they were just plain F-U-N. I think I was stifling laughter the entire session. Wait. I couldn't stifle them. I was cracking up! It truly is amazing I got any clear shots I was shaking so hard from the laughter! It's just such a blessing to be around people loving life ... and who doesn't remember the engagement period? When joy abounds even through the stress of planning the wedding. Siiigh. Young love ... But I digress! Here are just a few of some amazing shots we got!

Look at her! She's gorgeous!

Please oh please blow this one up big! I just love this one ... so serene!!

I wish I could show you more but then it wouldn't be called a sneak peek anymore. :) It would just simply be your entire gallery because they are all freaking fantastic! (Speaking of your gallery ... it will be up shortly!) I can't tell you how excited I am for your wedding, Ahnna and Kyle!! I am so honored that you chose me to capture your special day! It will be one for the books!

With Love,

Bonding ... Family bonding

2010-07-01T20:55:00.000-07:00

It's not every year my family gets to pack up our most favorite things and head out on a trip together. It's quite a chore with a family and it has only gotten more and more complicated with each addition. But they are times of bonding. Memories made and character carved. And because of that, I can't get enough! I love spending time with my family ... laughing, crying, kissing boo-boo's, snuggling, playing, teaching. All of it is priceless.

This year, as most years, we made our way to Montana. Missoula, Montana to be exact. It had been two years since our last visit (and ironically our last vacation) and it was time to see my hubby's grandma and visit his old stomping grounds.

It was easy driving. By that I mean, Fairmont is right off of I-90. We took the on-ramp west and drove. For 16 hours. And then exited in Missoula. It took us through the Black Hills of South Dakota, the vast expanse of the foothills of the Rockies in Wyoming and Eastern Montana to the middle of the majestic Rockies in Western Montana ... sweet, sweet Missoula. My two oldest did a phenomenal job keeping busy in the car with drawing, coloring, playing pretend, singing, laughing ... bonding. There wasn't any fighting, yelling, taking. It was actually quite simply amazing! Now, the baby on the other hand, he didn't enjoy the ride and after about 5 hours had enough. Oi! I must admit though, keeping happy for 5 hours of straight driving is pretty good for an 11 month old. I'm not complaining one bit!

We took this in a two day trip and the first night was spent simply tucking in bed and getting some good sleep. We were eager to get to Missoula so we were up and at 'em early. We got in to town just before dinner time and checked into our amazing hotel. It was awesome! The beds were marvelous and the cable was a welcomed sight (yes, we are cable-less here at the Stevens' house).

While we stayed in Missoula, we were able to see Isaac's parents who drove in from Oregon to, let's face it, see the grandkids - not us! (It's ok Nana & Papa, we understand!!) It was great fun spending time with them. We also got to see some of Isaac's old friends, eat at his favorite places, do some shopping, got some house sight-seeing in ... you know, where you drive around and look at humungous houses?

Then the end of the week we drove down to Hamilton (45 minutes south of Missoula) to spend the rest of our time with Isaac's Grandma. The kids fell in love with her in an instant! It was so great to see! This is why we came out. For our kids to get to know their Great Grandma Doris. And this is why Montana will continually be our vacation spot for years to come. Family is priceless and we want to be able to make memories as long as we are able to.

Ok, so you want to know the highlights from the trip?? Great! Glad you asked! ;) This is a silly list and really has nothing to do with Montana except they all happened there:

1. Playing hide-and-go seek at a park with Isaac's parents and my kids. I love my little "Thing Two" when he plays. He totally gives away his hiding spot by giving this really sinister "you'll never find me/this is so much fun" laugh. There was sneakiness. There was laughter. There was bonding. A recipe for a great memory.

2. Watching my baby boy interact with a friends son, Duncan. These two just hit it off and my boy's smile and laugh were just full of joy. His spirit was filled at this house I can't wait to go back and visit again!

3. While driving to meet some of Isaac's high school friends, the family bursts out into a Backyardigan's song about pirates, complete with a pirate accent. Arr Matey!! I could have been in that car all night long singing and laughing with them!

4. Going garage sale-ing with Grandma on Saturday morning. It was complete with horrible-for-you-but-oh-so-tasty donuts, getting lost, great finds and stories from Grandma.

5. Not opening my computer to work a single second the entire trip. And not feeling guilty about it.

6. Seeing my son at the sink with his Dad sifting through some rock looking for sapphires. The male bonding on this trip was amazing. They got to go out on some big rocks up in the mountains, swim in the big pool in the deep end together, and just laugh and laugh. Oh man ... my heart just fills up looking back on it!

7. Last but not least, the simple joy of going to a playground and out for ice cream afterwards. Being a family together, doing the little things.

So, here are some pictures of the Bitterroot Valley and other various mountains between Missoula and Hamilton:

While in Hamilton we went to the Big Fish Pond, a pond that has well, big fish! More importantly, Isaac often came to this pond to feed the fish and ducks when he was a boy visiting his Grandma. I love that stuff! The kids loved it too ...

Look at that face! He was just so excited to see the ducks ... he loves animals!

Here are just a few of some shots at one of the many super cool parks Missoula and Hamilton have. This one was designed to look like a castle/fort. It was awesome! I really appreciate the effort that these communities have taken to make amazing play areas of the kids ...

Drew getting ready for his next hand placement. If it were up to me, this is the only form of climbing he will ever do ... I don't think my heart could take real rock climbing!

Mohhhhm! I'm trying to concentrate! I can't help it. I was so proud ... and look at that grip!!

Through the entire trip, everybody was in high spirits, happy to be out experiencing things, being with each other and knowing that no matter what happens, we love each other, are there for each other, and will always accept each other in all circumstances and moods. We were gone a total of 10 days and when the time came for us to tell the kids we had to get in the car to come home there was much groaning and complaining.

On our way home, we stopped off to see "The four faces", as Drew calls Mt. Rushmore. Both Isaac and I had never seen it before so it was a whole family first experience! It was pretty cool and I'm glad we made the detour to see it. I'd show a pic of all five of us with it, but we're just so tiny you wouldn't even be able to see us. So, here are just the famous four ...

We had so much fun! I can't wait to do it again ... really! I also took my kids' yearly portraits while we were there. I can't help it -- new scenery!! I will post another entry with those in them. So, I will be done for now! May your summer be as filled with love and laughter as mine has been!

Until next time!

Sweet 3 month old Clara

2010-06-11T14:33:00.000-07:00

Oh this is so exciting! Remember Baby Clara back in February? Well, she's baaaaack! She's all grown up ... well, she's three months now and cuter than a bugs butt (as we like to say here at the Stevens' house). Not only do I love this little girl, I love the family she's a part of! She's going to be such a heartbreaker ... and boys, watch out, she's got two older brothers and an older sister. Oh, and did I mention her daddy's a military man? She's well protected. And so she should be.

Those eyes ...

Look at that face ... she's already got the pout down pat.

With Love!

Oh So Cute Baby Kynlee

2010-06-11T14:16:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of May (I know, I know ... I'm a slacker) I got a call from a family wanting some portraits of their newest arrival, Baby Kynlee. She was 2 months old and the cutest any baby could be! And the big brother, Klay, was pretty darn adorable ... ahem, I mean, handsome ... too! I am so thankful to have had the privilege of being there for some of Baby Kynlee's beginnings. Here are some of my fave's from the session.

Can't forget the big brother!

I loved this session and getting to know another amazing family!

Cheers!

Jenna

Little Mr. G and Miss A.

2010-06-11T13:34:00.000-07:00

Have I mentioned lately that I love my job? You're probably rolling your eyes at me and saying, "yeah yeah. You love your job. You always say that!" Well, it's just so much the truth that I am practically giddy. I'm almost jumping up and down like a little child in a candy store! Like previously mentioned, I was able to go down to Arizona to shoot a friends wedding and another friends baby's one year portraits. One top of all that amazingness, I was able to see ANOTHER friend and take her two beautiful kids' portraits. We went all around downtown Gilbert and had so much fun! The kids were totally into it and it made my job easy peasy! So, stop holding your breathe with anticipation because here is another great session. Hold on to your hats, there's a lot of cuteness coming ...

So so sweet!

I'm one now!!! It was sooo cute!

This was an amazing session! What can be better than seeing a friend you haven't seen in a year AND taking their kids' portraits? Nothing, I say! It was perfect ... and I can't wait to do it again!

Love,

Henrik is one!!

2010-06-11T13:09:00.000-07:00

The third week of May I was blessed to be able to fly down to the state that I have grown to love and call home, Arizona, to shoot a friends wedding. While I was there, I got to take some one year old portraits of a very dear friends sweet baby boy! Henrik was quite the busy guy and pretty much always wanted to be outside, so we appeased him for a bit (it was almost 100˚, people!) but mostly hung out indoors. Here are my fave's from the session!

There's something about baby profiles. Is it the nose? The cheeks? Maybe all of it??

This little dude has some seriously rich brown eyes!

He and my youngest son were bonding by banging on the windows! :)

I love this one!

I had so much fun reconnecting with my friend (Momma of Mr. H) and getting to know her little boy. It was rejuvenating, full of laughter and brought me back to a great time in my life! Thanks so much!!

With deep appreciation,
J

The Andersen's

2010-06-11T12:40:00.000-07:00

Almost every day my 5 year old daughter tears up because she makes a mistake either learning her dance steps, writing letters and words, or building with Lego's and anything and everything in between. She hates getting things wrong. And almost everyday, I look at her and very kindly say, "Everybody makes mistakes. I make mistakes all the time! No one is perfect." It doesn't seem to console her, however. And it doesn't console me when I make mistakes. This past week, I made one. I big one. I got all my gear packed and in the car for a shoot with an amazing family. I went about the session only to have my battery die half way through. I had recently gotten back from a wedding and hadn't recharged them. Yikes! These are things you never want to happen. And I kept beating myself up about it. (I wonder where my daughter gets her perfectionism from??!) But then *my* voice came into my head saying, "Everybody makes mistakes. No one is perfect." Only this time I wasn't talking to my daughter, I was talking to me.

Well, two days later I went back to finish the session and it was awesome! It was great to end on a happy note ... and the family was amazing. They were laid back and so fun! Here are just a few from their session(s)! ;) Enjoy!

Daddy and son - precious!!

Look at that face!! I crack up every time I look at this!

Big sis was so shy around me ... but loooooooved Isaac! (Typical - my man has a way with the kids!)

I brought a quilt that my grandma made a long, long time ago... I love how it turned out!

I will be posting more sessions soon! My family and I are heading out of town for a much needed vacay tomorrow. Got lots to do before then so you'll see more of me later! ;)

Love,

Eeeek!

2010-06-03T12:50:00.000-07:00

I share this with a bit of embarrassment as I am typically quick to hush most praise of me. Hey, I'm not an attention-getter. There's a reason I'm BEHIND the camera!! I was recently interviewed by a fellow Christian Photographer all the way from California. I wish it could have been an in-person interview, alas it was not. It was fun being drilled all sorts of different questions and it challenged me to sit down and really dig into the meat of me. I don't get that very often, what with those pesky, ahem, I mean amazing kids of mine! ;) So ... enjoy it and tell me what you think!

And since I just can't post without a picture, here is one of mine from a recent family fun day ... that girl loves the swing!

Cheers,

Kris + Mike = Just Hitched

2010-06-03T12:38:00.000-07:00

I've been neglecting my blog so be on the ready for a mass blast of sessions ... starting with a very special day this past May. A good friend of mine, who I actually moved down to Arizona with some ... well ... dare I tell you? Ok ... some 12 years ago. She introduced me to another part of our country that I fell in love with. I haven't been able to break my heart away from The Valley, no matter where I have lived since and so it was with great joy when she called me up and asked if I would capture her wedding day. Well, Kris ... I am so honored to have been able to be a part of your special, long awaited day. Without further adieu ... Kris and Mike ... MARRIED!! :)

These guys were so fun!

And the girls, too ...

Loved the location ... nothing better then running water in the desert!

There's just something about that "just married" smile! I love it!

The sun was fading fast so I got to experiment with off camera flash!

So, just a few to tide everyone over ... I am trying to work like a madwoman to get these done before my family and I go on vacation. Again, thank you so much, Kris and Mike, for letting me capture this special day for you guys! May you have many years of love, laughter, and blessings!

With Love,

My 3 Reasons

2010-05-11T19:16:00.000-07:00

This is why I have great mothers day ... and 364 other amazing days! I am so excited for this upcoming season ... there is so much potential for growth in the business and I'm looking forward to seeing returning clients. There are so many photographers out there in the world and I sometimes wonder why someone would come to me when person X is out there. My hope is that people will see my passion for not only capturing precious moments in time but also creating artful masterpieces out of them. Not only do you get to preserve your memories, but you also get artistic representations of those times. Life is short ... let's go make those memories!

Cheers!

Jenna

Little Miss Clara {Sneak Peek} | Newborn Custom Photographer

2010-02-28T14:57:00.000-08:00

I just had the privilege of taking some very dear friends newest addition to their family this weekend. The blessed Mom {Diana} and I met long ago in my past life as a barista at a coffee shop and we've been friends ever since. Coffee brings people together!! Drink it and be merry! :) It has been 8 months since we've gotten together and this was such a miracle of an "excuse" to see them! The adorable Clara is so little and precious! She was such a good baby ... sleeping through most of the session ... couldn't have asked for a better model.

I loved that she slept through all the noise that was going on! See, she's the youngest of 4 and my family brought our kids so there was a *little bit* going on! While the men talked about who knows what outside and 4 of the 6 "big" kids slept, Diana and I got down to business of creating some amazing images!

Here she is, the long awaited baby Clara weighing in at 6lbs 15oz and 19" long. I couldn't pick just a few so you got some extras in your sneak peek! ;) Enjoy!

Thanks again, guys, for letting us come up and raid your already full house for the day yesterday! We had so much fun and can't wait to do it again soon! Clara is so blessed to have you as parents.

God Bless!
Jenna

6 month old Lauren | Southern Minnesota Baby Photographer

2010-02-26T18:04:00.000-08:00

This session was fun ... I got to drive out to my clients home (which I typically do) and while driving up their driveway came across a snow drift that the wind decided to make. (Should I remind you how much I looooove winter??) Well, it didn't look too terrible so I gunned my Chrysler Town + Country and almost made it! So, I was stranded with house in view. I contemplated leaving it and just hauling my stuff in from where I was stuck. But luckily the mom, Vanessa came out and we tried for some brief moments to unstick my van. To much avail, I ended up leaving my van exactly where it got stuck and moved my things from my vehicle to Vanessa's. Whew! What an adventure! ... I love my job ~ even things like this!!

I was hired to take little Miss Lauren's 6 month portraits and boy did I find that she was ever so cute when I finally stepped inside the house! She has an older brother (2 1/2 years old) who was a whirlwind around me. Right away, I got down to business ... playing with them {whilst my van was getting unstuck by "Grandpa" ~ thank you!!}. Lauren is such a serious baby! I was able to play some games with her and get a few smiles but most of her expressions were full of concern.

Love this one of mom and baby!

And of course, had to get a few of brother, much to his dismay!

I had so much fun getting stuck at your house Vanessa! And the talks about our 2 1/2 year old boys and the challenges they bring us was good. It's always encouraging to meet others who share in the frustration and joys that you have. I loved coming in to your home and spending time with you and your family! Enjoy these sneak peeks ... your gallery will be up in no time!

With Love!

Jenna

My lovelies

2010-02-18T06:26:00.000-08:00

I don't want you to think that I've been neglecting the blog. It's just that nothing has been happening for awhile ... well, other than me going back and forth at being healthy, being sick, healthy, sick. And unfortunately, I'm sick again. It's never anything extreme but just enough to make me incompacitated for a day or two.

I wanted to show you my Sunday Surprise! Isaac was off working all day and that meant the kids and I were home clawing at the walls trying to stay sane. Along comes a knock at the door and I open it to a vase full of flowers! So sweet! Isaac and I typically don't do anything for Valentines Day merely because we like to surprise each other on random "boring normal" days. So, he did good with this one ~ totally surprise!

The "kids" got them for me. Each child is represented in a color: Leslie gave me the pink ones (of course!), Drew gave me the orange ones, and Oliver gave me the yellow ones. I love looking at them ... they're right in the middle of the table so that no matter where I am, I am able to get a glimpse of them. So beautiful, so sweet ... just like my husband!

I've got a sneak peek of an adorable 6month session coming up soon! So, stay tuned ... this little girl is adorable. Hopefully this bug, whatever it is, will leave me for good soon and I can stay healthy!

Til Next Time,

Jenna

Newborn Special!

2010-01-31T17:45:00.000-08:00

Newborn Session Details:
You can schedule your session tentatively by telling me your due date and paying your session fee. I will put your due date on my calendar, but we will finalize the date and time after the baby arrives. It is imperative that you call me as soon as the baby arrives so we can get your session in BEFORE baby is over 10 days old.

Your session will be conducted in the comfort of your own home as they are intimate and quiet by their nature and will be focused solely on your new baby and a few shots with mom and dad. Newborns are happiest when they are warm and have full bellies. Before I arrive for the session please do the following: make sure your house is warm (if it's too warm for you, that usually means it's perfect for baby), undress them down to their diaper (let's face it, they are cutest the way they come into the world), swaddled, and that they are fed. Please know that if your baby is crying or unhappy during any part of the session, we will take a break!

Senior Katelyn | Senior Portrait Photographer | Southern MN Custom Photography

2010-01-23T09:19:00.000-08:00

After many tries to schedule her senior session, Katelyn was finally in front of my camera! I had so much fun trudging through the snow and being challenged at finding locations. Let me tell you, all the places that I love had piles of snow still smack in the middle of them. Most were unusable ... unless we were to have used the snow as a chair ~ ooo! ~ just kidding! We drove and drove around some more until I landed a few places that were doable. She was such a good sport ... even up for schlepping through a good 2(+) feet of snow to get to our destination. I am always willing to do whatever it takes to get the shot so it's so fun to find someone else who is up for it as well! Katelyn was a dream to work with, gorgeous on the outside AND on the inside! I am so thankful to have been chosen to capture this special time for her.

This is the location we braved the snow to get to ... totally worth it!

Love this shot!

It was hard getting serious shots because we were laughing all the time!

A little indoor love ... those eyes ...

Thanks again, Katelyn ... I had an awesome time trekking around town with you!

Until next time!
Jenna :)

Winter Wonderland

2010-01-22T15:21:00.000-08:00

Alright folks, it's common knowledge that I grew up here in the lovely town of Fairmont, Minnesota ... and almost equally as commonly known is that winter is at the bottom of my love list. I moved down to Phoenix when I was 20 years old only to fall in love with the land full of stones and cacti. The mountains are gorgeous and I promised myself I would never stop thanking God for their beauty (and I didn't). I love the bright blue sky, the vibrant colors, the warmth on my skin and all the native plants that grow. Phoenix is truly the opposite of Minnesota. Life is very rare, the bugs are huge and weather is rare (if I had made meterology my profession, Phoenix would be a boring place to live). So, needless to say, this winter has been an adjustment.

Since our move here last May, I have been praising God in the decision and finding myself content and happy. If something isn't to my liking, my adopted saying is, "it is what it is". Finding the good in all circumstances has been my joy, not my challenge. This brings me to winter. Oh Old Man Winter ... you and I have never been fast friends. My mood changes when it's cold. I get dreary, as the local weathermen like to say of the forecast. However, I have been changing my attitude (not my mind ... please note). This past week we woke up to all the trees covered in frost. Um, only word I can find to describe it is GORGEOUS! I just had to run and get my camera ...

Now, who can't fall in love with that?

Alright. So, now you're all wondering if winter and I are in love now. Sorry to disappoint. No. I still dislike extensively the frigid cold. Never will I enjoy the ice on the streets, the freezing wind slapping me in the face, the nose hairs freezing in seconds when I go out to just get the mail. No, there will never be a love affair. I will never enjoy being IN winter but can love SEEING winter. There is, however, a joy in what God has created. I can appreciate the reason behind winter. Without the death of things, there would be no joy in life. The spring would not be so amazing. It would not give such happiness. Death gives way to life. And in that death can be joy because there will be new life. Ahhhh ... sweet sweet peace.

So, with camera in hand from outside, I jump back in to see my first boy (I'm refusing to say middle child right now) on the couch being his cute self. Snap. Had to do it. A moment in time of peace and joy.

Until we meet again!

Jenna

Thing One and Thing Two

2010-01-21T16:04:00.000-08:00

So, the other day my 4 year old daughter walks up to me and says, "You don't ever take my picture anymore. You always take other peoples pictures but not mine." ::Sigh:: "Leslie, would you like a photo shoot all your own?" Eyes light up and her head bobs up and down vigorously. Truth be told, I take their pictures ... not as much as some mothers but there is defintely documentation of their lives. It's always funny to hear the perspective of a child.

My life has been pretty busy lately and I'm so thankful that my business has an ebb and flow. This season, I am focusing on my three beauties (... ok four beauties ... can't leave out the hubs) and preparing my business for the upcoming spring/summer. I'm so excited about it! What have I done today, other than not get out of my jammies? Well, it's been filled with registering my business, setting up my new AWESOME MacBook Pro (email is on the fritz so be patient!), purchasing senior portrait supplies, packaging, laptop accessories, applying for a business account at the bank ... I'm so thankful for the invention of the internet ... where all of this can get done with a click of a button and in the comfort of my slippers! ;)

So, as I come to a close I will leave you with just a snippet of my children's latest modeling, Thing One and Thing Two, as I affectionately call them. They're gorgeous and I'm blessed to be their mom!

Have a happy Day!

Jenna

2011 Senior Model Search

2010-01-16T15:45:00.000-08:00

The search is on … I am looking for my models for the class of 2011. What kind of sweet deals do my High School Senior Models get, you ask? Well the answer to that is ALOT! They get a reduced session fee, their own business cards and discounts galore (email for more information). Please contact me ASAP if you would like to be a Jenna Stevens Photography Model. Space is limited to TWO and both guys and girls should apply. So, tell your friends to take a look at my website and see if they are interested. I am looking for models from any area high school (Fairmont, MCW, GHEC, LCWM, AR, NK, etc), and including up to Mankato! So if you are a current year Junior and would like your senior portraits to be something unique and all about you, shoot me an email.

Talk to you soon! ;)

Jenna

Welcome!

2010-01-08T18:10:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone! I am re-entering the blogging world this year and I plan on making it stick! I am so excited to get going ... blogging about sessions, about my kids, about things happening in my business ... I'm just so giddy about it all! So, first off I will introduce you to myself and my family.

Me. Hmmm ... where to begin? I am 33 years old, back living in the town that I grew up in, enjoying my family, friends, and church. I love and can appreciate art in any shape and form. I have always known that I'd do something artist with my life. When I was 10, I wrote a letter (what's that?!) to a family friend who was a photographer and told her that I loved taking pictures and if she could give me some insight into becoming a professional. She wrote back and much to my dismay highly discouraged me from entering the field. As a young child, I simply (and sadly) checked that career off my list of possibilities. So, out of high school I decided that the "smart" thing to do would be graphic design so I went ahead and got my bachelor's degree. It wasn't until 5 years ago that the photography dream started creeping back up on me. Don't get me wrong, I love graphic design but photography is my passion. It feels liberating to do something that you love! It brings me so much joy to fill my life with the things that are close to my heart.

And that brings me to my family. I looooo-oh-ove my family! I've got the best one, too, in my opinion. I could not have asked for a better, more perfect-for-me husband! He and I just click ~ we get each other! Laughs are never far away when we're together. He is so smart, artistic, *cute*, thoughtful and definitely my better half. I look to him for what a spouse should be. We've been married for coming on 7 years now and I am still absolutely in love with him. He is talented in his own right ... a chef! A food artist, if you will! He has a line of sauces, dips, and marinades that are to die for! Check out: The Saucery!

We have three amazing children. Leslie (4), Drew (2.5), and Oliver (.5). I am so blessed to be able to stay at home with them. Adding each child has created more adventure in our family! It's never a dull moment around the Stevens house. Leslie is totally into everything pink, princess, and school. She couldn't be any girlier! She is so excited to turn 5 ~ she's been waiting since she was 2.5. She'd say, "I'm going to be 3 but I wanna be 5". Now that day is just around the corner and she couldn't be happier. She reminds me almost every day! Drew is a fireball. All boy. Loves anything with wheels and "The Backyardigans". Right now, he is refusing to potty train although he says he's a "big boy". We remind him that big boys use the potty and babies have diapers. It doesn't help. Ahhhh, it will come in time! Oliver is what I like to call our "God planned" child. He wasn't in ours but he sure was in God's! And we can't be more thankful! I feel silly thinking that our family was complete without him ... he brings so much joy (and challenge ~ man, three kids sure is a whole different playing field!). Right now he is rolling all over the house, which he loves! He smiles easily and is a huge cuddler. LOVE IT!

It is so great to be able to do what I love: raise my kids and have a business that gives me the flexibility to do so. I appreciate and am humbled by my family and friends in their support and encouragement with me and my business. I know it may sound redundant, but I am SO BLESSED!

See ya soon!
Jenna

About Custom Photography

2009-12-18T16:56:00.000-08:00

What is Custom Photography?

The photographic art you choose to place on your wall is ultimately the result of the vision of the photographer. This vision, coupled with what you wear to your session, the environment, the lighting, even the mood the subjects are in at the time of photographing creates the work that you will want to proudly display on your walls forevermore.

Your first step in the process is more about determining who you are, who your family is and then seeking a photographer that reflects your style. For instance let’s say your family is extremely outdoorsy and loves playing on the beach. You start determining what style you like, browse through photography website portfolios and determine if any of the styles exhibited there would be a good fit with your life and family style. You have already determined that you should probably seek out a beach type photographer (that is if you live near a beach) and then begin narrowing the field down a bit.

Finally after a bit of internet research, you have narrowed it down to two photographers who do what seems like solid work, the sort of outdoor beach look you desire. It is now time to ask yourself: Do you like photographer A’s style over photographer B’s style? Is it because the people in the images of A’s style are having a great time and it seems very caught up in the moment vs. B photographer more posed, looking in the camera images? If this is a case, you probably like LIFESTYLE photography or perhaps even take it a step further and define your desired style as a PHOTOJOURNALISTIC photography style. The photographer you probably should choose is photographer A because their style is very similar to the style you desire.

What custom photography ultimately is all about is choice and experience (as in THE experience). Custom photography is about finding someone who will photograph your family, give you devoted 1:1 attention without worry of the next ‘in line’ or the feeling of a crowded portrait studio. A custom photographer will typically show you a fairly extensive gallery culled to only show the good images that meet the photographers’ creative sensibilities. Often the images are fully edited images-color corrected with blemishes and undereye circles removed. Custom photographers are also known as boutique studios, offering a range of products and unparalleled service. Think Lexus vs. Hyundai, think Nordstrom vs. WalMart.

Custom photography should have you, the client and your experience in mind.

Custom photography is more of a luxury than your entry level cookie cutter chain experience. Custom photography truly is not for everyone, it requires a level of commitment, investment in time and money, forethought and planning on the part of the subject/client and requires a larger time commitment for the photographer as well.

Clients who enjoy taking a more active role in the creation of their families’ memories have the desire to have portrait art that is truly personalized. These more discerning clients have been known to budget and allot time for a custom photography session. Many clients opt for it to be a once a year special experience, some opt to have custom photography sessions done to record their child’s stages in life. Having said this, it is clear that custom photography is not in everyone’s budget, it is something that most families save for to splurge on from time to time to memorialize their children as they really are (not posed and primped in the cookie cutter studio setting).

There is a great deal of time involved in creating high end custom photography sessions for a client. The luxury of great service, better choices and a supberb end product. The result of all this are heirloom quality images. The time invested at the session is only a small portion of time involved in this process.

Custom photography has been likened to purchasing a fine vehicle. To get to point B from A let’s face it, even a bus ride would suffice. If you want to luxuriate in a finely appointed vehicle, customizing your own experience by listening to smooth jazz while sitting in a climate controlled setting adjusted purely for your comfort in a body hugging leather interior, perhaps that Lexus you so desire is your cup of tea. Custom photography is much the same cup of tea. It is the Lexus of the photography world. It is where the intangibles make the experience truly wonderful and the images themselves make the investment of money and time truly worthwhile.

Why Choose Custom Photography?

Custom photography can be broken down into even more levels. There are on location, studio, mixed studio/on location, specialty location and destination type photographers. The beauty of custom photography is in the choices and in the luxury of thoses options. The customized service level you are sure to experience will be amazing. The knowledge that your final images are the result of someone caring about those moments so much that they take extra time ensuring that the artwork you receive is good enough to stand by with their name on it. That level of quality and commitment is all but lost in the age of "mass produced," "mass marketed," corporate "everyone is a number". Custom photography is based on being unique to you. How great an experience would be, to be able to sit back and allow a photographer to do this highly custom work for images that you will most likely cherish for a lifetime?

Keep in mind more than anything that the Lexus will never appreciate in value the way your portraits will. The portrait art you become invested in from your custom photographer will no doubt increase in value and become more priceless as the years pass.

Why does Custom Photography Cost more?

The digital revolution has brought amazing flexibility and ability to control various factors during the image taking and making process. Photographers, the hobbyist, the professional, the amateur all benefit from this ability to manipulate pixels. However, with flexibility comes a price. Digital camera equipment is still considerably more expensive when you factor in its’ lifespan, the need for additional resources for processing those images, the time it takes to get a usable image and the effort that goes into creating a work of photographic art.

We all know that you can go to the local Walgreen’s and pay a $1.99 for a print – as a client you may wonder why you may pay upwards of $50, $70, $90 for a custom photography print. Photographers hear this statement every once in awhile: “How in the world can you charge $60 for an 8×10 if it costs me less than $2 to print at x store?”

The truth of the matter is the answer to this question is multifaceted. Much of the cost of a photographic print produced by a professional photographer has a lot to do with the time, equipment costs, artistic vision and reputation of the photographer not to mention expertise and the usual costs of running a legitimate business.

The cost of TIME

Approaching it from a time standpoint, let’s imagine that you have hired a photographer who has work that you love. This photographer is traveling an hour to your destination to photograph your session. Here is an example of a time break down:

session prep time (30 mins – 1 hour, includes equipment and back up equipment checks + vehicle checks)

one hour travel time TO session

15-30 minutes prep time at client’s home

90 minutes-2 hours with client photographing subject

one hour travel time FROM session

30-45 minutes uploading time from digital cards from camera to computer

30-45 minutes time spent backing up the original images

2-5 hours editing time to present you with a diverse gallery of edited images

1 hour prep time getting ready for ordering

2-3 hours time with client for ordering images

1 hour sorting through and checking order

30 minutes-1 hour prep time for delivery

30 minutes-1 hour getting order shipped

any additional phone time or time needed for add on ordering, shipment issues, quality issues

In this example, the time spent per client can range from just under 13 hours to 19 hours – dependent on the photographer’s level of service. This is time dedicated only to ONE session. When the photographer charges $150-$300 for the photo shoot (aka SESSION FEE) you are not just paying for the two hours of session time, you are paying the photographer for 12-19 hours complete time for your session.

The COSTS of Maintaining a Custom Photography Business:

Regarding equipment costs, a good quality professional camera with a selection of good optical quality lenses and digital storage mediums and computer set up can run from $10,000-$30,000 costs dependent on the photographer. Even though you can purchase a really good quality digital SLR for about $2100 there are still other costs related to photography. A good lens for portrait photography can run from $900 to $2500. A dependable computer system with software loaded for business and creative usage can run $2500 to $8000 dependent on the photographer.

Then come lab costs for specialty products. A good photographer knows the lab is integral to their success. Photography labs dedicated to the professional photographer often cost more and offer a range of products that allows the custom photographer to continually offer new, innovative products for you, the discerning client.

Discussion other costs of running a photography business could take awhile so we’ll skip many of the intricate details. There is of course much more: including costs of running the business, taxes, studio rental/mortgage if the photographer has ownership of a dedicated studio, vehicular costs, costs of advertising/marketing, costs of sample pieces that the photographer will likely bring to your session, etc.

APPLES to ORANGES to BANANAS:

Often times clients will mention to their photographer that X studio in the mall/department store only charges $19.99 for an 8×10 “sheet” or they may mention other things related to discount photography chains. The fact is those discount chains make their money on volume, not on customized 1:1 service. In February 2007 leased photography retail space by a rather well known discount department store that started in Arkansas closed down 500 of their portrait studios across the nation? The reason is simple, you cannot make money on 99¢ “professional” prints if you do not sell enough of them. Interestingly enough – those same studios that offer the loss leader packages often charge much much more for their a la carte pricing (as high as $40-50 for an 8×10). The whole reason the big department stores began offering portrait services in the first place was to get you, the savvy consumer, in through their door so that you could spend more money with them in other departments. Your “PORTRAITS” are considered the “loss leader”.

Going to a chain studio, as a consumer, you don’t have the benefit of 1:1 attention for 2 hours at your home where your child is allowed to explore, play and be comfortable in their home environment, nor do you get the experience that many custom photographers are known for or the lovely captures of natural expressions. You simply get a bare bones, “SAY CHEESE” experience. Keep this in mind when selecting a photographer.

REPUTATION/EXPERTISE of the PHOTOGRAPHER:

Being in demand, being well known for quality work, having a good reputation often costs time on the photographer’s part. Their expertise comes at a cost, their time learning their craft and learning the intricacies of lighting and the commitment put forth on their end to create a persona about their business that oozes professionalism. A great number of photographers go a very long time from the time that they purchase their first good camera to making money at the business of photography. Many photographers, when first starting out, rush in thinking that the business will be easily profitable in no time, how expensive could it be to get a camera and use it to create their dream? They often neglect to factor in the cost of business, the cost of equipment, software, back ups, etc..

Being of sound reputation, a better professional photographer knows that they must always reinvest in their business to create the reputation of being top notch. To create good work good equipment, reliable equipment, back up equipment is a necessity. The photographer who desires to be known as better/best/unparalelled reputation-wise knows that the most important thing they can do for their business is reliability and dependability. This is how reputations get built. Good work often is a wonderful side product of building that good reputation.

I hope this (lengthy) article helps shed some light on WHY a custom photographer is a better choice for your family’s memories. The photographs that are produced as a result of the professionalism and dedication that your photographer has will be cherished for a lifetime (or more) and great thought and consideration should be placed into hiring who is right for your family’s most precious investment.

... taken from Professional Child Photographer, the consumer guide for custom photography

contact

2009-12-18T14:20:00.000-08:00

email: hello@jennastevens.net

phone: 507.848.6136

website: www.jennastevens.net

2009-12-18T12:52:00.000-08:00

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meet jenna

2009-12-18T06:05:00.000-08:00

She'd rather be barefoot but if shoes are required, she'll put on flip flops.

She claims she's allergic to the kitchen. It's a good thing she married a trained chef otherwise the family would be suffering through boxed meals.

Her drug of choice is Dr. Pepper. You could probably get away with paying her in this form ... but you'd have to check with her hubby!

She's a follower of Christ first, supporting wife second, nurturing mother third and passionate photographer fourth.

In her 20's she worked in an independent coffee shop and learned the art of brewing the perfect espresso shot, frothing milk and even some fun coffee art! Needless to say, she left being a coffee snob!

Jenna sings "you are my sunshine" to all of her kids and tells each of them that they are her favorite. Every day.

She is currently working to overcome her perfectionism.

Her father is straight off the boat from Germany and one day wants to visit where he spent his first 12 years.

Jenna is intentional, passional, and real. She believes that life is above all else about people. It drives her business and all that she does.