Jeune Girl Photography

I Heart Faces: Orchard

2010-10-19T10:05:00.000-07:00

I think Miss Molly is the epitome of fun at the orchard as she rocked the tractor!

A Change is Gonna Come

2010-09-02T18:05:00.001-07:00

Moving day has arrived here at the Jeune Girl Factory. All of my crafts and photographs are moving themselves over to a new and improved blog/site. This hybrid encompasses everything I need to run my "empire" (as I refer to it). Under one roof (or under one cute header) clients and fans can view my crafts and photographs. Photography clients will be able to view their session proofs and order prints. Craft clients can now order (and pay) through an online gallery as well.

I hope to see you all over there at the new site!

http://jeunegirl.com/

Booking Blitz Week One Continues!

2010-08-22T08:05:00.000-07:00

The rest of week one of the booking bonanza was great. I was able to meet some new families as well as have some sessions with familiar faces. The weather was fantastic (though a bit on the hot side... well ... it is August after all)

I met this family at a local historic home near my house. Big sister was such a ham while her little sister was more on the shy side... but equally as cute.

I had to drive down to Beacon to meet my next cutie but it was worth the trip as I was able to see her gorgeous nursery and spend some time getting to know her in her own surroundings. Being a one year old... getting her to pose for pictures was tricky so I also got a good workout!

I think everyone should decorate with owls... loved this guy!

How do you get a one year old to sit still? Put her on a cute rocking horse!

The V Trio! This was my second shoot with this great family. Their mom is the unofficial president of my fan club so I am always happy to see these beauties. I will be seeing them again in October.... so maybe we'll book again in the winter and they will be my "girls for all seasons"

Keep checking back for more updates and I will be posting pics from the Booking Blitz... Week 2!

Booking Blitz!

2010-08-16T07:56:00.000-07:00

Again, I apologize for being a bad blogger... I admit that I don't update as much as I should. For the last 2 weeks my daughters have been off to farm camp so I took the opportunity to plan a "booking blitz" for those days. I did this in an attempt to see what my professional life may look like after my girls both start school full time in September. It was a WHIRLWIND. I had booked out 13 straight days of shoots (one of which had 2 shoots!). I did end up rescheduling one shoot so I was out with my camera 12 out of 13 days. It was great to see how I will be juggling my time come this fall when I plan on being really busy. Once those leaves start changing people will want to be out getting their photos taken and I'm so excited.

I out on Sunday, August 1 with a great shoot with an adorable newborn. You may remember his gorgeous mom from an earlier maternity shoot. Little J was bright eyed and busy tailed when I met him so I actually stopped by to see him a week later to get some sleepy shots.... the baby dictates the shoot! (plus it gave me an excuse to go to Target which was near his house!)

Then it was Monday... my own Independence Day! I dropped the girls off at camp and ran off to do my first weekday shoot where I wasn't scrambling for childcare. This shoot featured some adorable cousins who really loved the camera (and the feeling was mutual!)

Be sure to check back for more updates from my booking blitz! Thanks to all the beautiful families who took advantage of this unique offer.

Fall Photo Contest!!!

2010-08-10T17:54:00.001-07:00

With a new season almost upon us (ok, wishful thinking with all of this heat!), it's time to start thinking about back to school. I would love to give away a photo shoot (must take place in September) to a local high school student (Ulster, Dutchess, Orange Counties willing to travel to New Paltz) who is deserving of a free shoot. So if you know a hard working, dedicated, and deserving high school JUNIOR OR SENIOR write me a short essay (100 words or less) and submit a recent photo. Entries can be emailed to meg@jeunegirl.com.

Entries must be received by midnight on August 31, 2010. The winner will receive a free photo shoot as well as 25 wallet/rep cards to give to friends and family!

Getting Out With Friends and Family

2010-08-05T11:59:00.000-07:00

What fun is it to have your own photography business if you can't share it with friends? A few weeks ago, my bff Kelly had a birthday so we decided to have a girls' day out that included Kelly's own bff too. The three of us have been friends for a long time and now 2 of us have our own daughters. So this group of 6 headed up to historic Rhinebeck (hmm... where have I heard that town in the news recently? Oh yeah, a certain wedding was held there) to just see the sights and have fun.... just the girls!

(the picture above was taken after a looooooooong walk in which Kelly got Brynne and Catrina lost... good job Kelly! At least I scored an amazing picture!)

Moving on to happier subject matter... my friend Elissa's daughter...

Brynne was having fun being the "big kid" to Kat

This was before the long walk... happier times.

Such a big girl!

Beautiful Mom to Be!

2010-07-30T18:01:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful time meeting this couple. They are about to become first time parents which is always exciting. They don't know if it's a boy or a girl so we'll all have to wait and see. I look forward to taking his/her photos in September!

Maternity photo shoots make great shower gifts! Contact me for gift card ordering!

Snips & Snails and Puppy Dog Tails!

2010-07-23T06:12:00.000-07:00

Ahhh.... little boys!!! My good friends, Mike and Jackie, recently welcomed a new addition to their family and asked me to do their first family photos! I was very honored. I also offered to rent out their living room as a studio since their lighting was FANTASTIC!

Welcome to the world baby G!

Fall Sessions: the Low-Down

2010-07-22T05:46:00.000-07:00

Make it a Double

2010-07-19T17:51:00.000-07:00

.... Does it get any cuter than these twins? They totally rocked their shoot (even in the heat). I wasn't sure when I pulled up and saw that one was sporting a pretty serious face bandaid but I was reassured that the shoot would go on and that bandaids are cool. When they are Hello Kitty bandaids they are totally cool! The bandaid helped me to tell these two cuties apart!

Dog Days of Summer!!!

2010-07-15T06:14:00.000-07:00

It has been a scorching hot summer thus far in the Valley. I have been fortunate to have my shoots timed out that we've avoided the hottest days. My recent shoots have featured some really gorgeous children and overall, "characters" to say the least.

These cuties were soooo good good for me. We had a terrific time together.

Awww Sophie... she's a local celebrity. Well, what I mean is that during our shoot she caught the attention of everyone and everything that crossed her path. We had a few interruptions but she was a true professional!

Family Time

2010-07-01T10:39:00.000-07:00

I recently was asked to do a photo shoot for an extended family with 12 people!!! 6 adults... 6 children. I was apprehensive at first but my worries soon went away as I realized this family was very laid back and so much fun. It hardly seemed like an hour had passed and we got tons of great shots... and the kids had a blast!

Senior Sessions Have Begun:

2010-06-27T15:04:00.000-07:00

I haven't really begun to even dip my toe into the pond of "senior sessions" yet but my niece was happy to be my first a few weeks ago. She is a proud member of the Class of 2011 (and an avid photographer as well) and just gorgeous so I was happy she came to visit!

I'm always happy to get a chance to photograph a subject who will look at you... smile... and not run off. I think I could get used to photographing seniors!! Book your sessions now!

Wait? What's this??? typical Catrina getting in on the act

The Hidden Session

2010-06-21T11:50:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month I was invited by my friend to come to her house to photograph her adorable newborn along with big brother and cousin. I loved the way these shots came out but I was sworn to secrecy since they were to be a Father's Day present. I have now gotten the official green light to introduce the world to Baby M. She is a doll. Her cousin (who I did a separate shoot with) has model-gorgeous looks and Big Brother G is too handsome for words!

Keeping Busy!

2010-06-13T19:12:00.000-07:00

I have found myself in an enviable position. I am working as hard as I can and having a great time doing it! As I've mentioned, my blogs are suffering as a result so I hope that anyone who checks here regularly is also checking out Jeune Girl Crafts on Facebook for up to the minute updates.

Here is a smattering of some of the great families I've gotten to work with in the past few weeks.

Up first.... You might recognize 2 of the kids in these shots as I had a practice run at the younger ones a while ago. Their mom is so easy going and fun I just couldn't wait to get back together to meet her older boys. Definitely reminds me of my early years.... 3 boys and 1 girl... just like I had!

I recently met with this family who had 3 adorable kids. I think the oldest one would be perfect for my Catrina but, as I've learned, she has to get in line!

On to another repeat client family. This family was one I photographed at Mohonk Mtn House which gave me some of my favorite images to date. I learned last week that it wasn't the setting that made those photos stunning (though it didn't hurt!) but the wonderful family in the photos!

This year, I had my very first "working holiday". Over Memorial Day I was able to photograph a family of 2 high school friends of Andy's. We had a blast this day.... 1 child, 2 dogs, and 5 laughing grown ups.

Then it was off to get acquainted with the sisters. It's funny, this family lives on a street of friends... they all moved in together at the same time and started having children at the same time. This month, I will photograph all 3 families.... it's kind of funny!!

Then there is my fitness-buff friend, Jessica. She has recently begun taking on clients for personal training (check out Jess Casamento-Hudson Valley Personal Trainer on Facebook) and wanted a set of photos showing her doing her thing. She was adorable. I wish her the best in starting her new business (I will be eating these words after my first "bootcamp" with her on Tuesday!)

This week found me having another shoot with everyone's favorite redhead and her adorable brother. I adore these two. I had to bring my 'assistant' to the shoot but Catrina and Miss G hit it off and played like good friends after just a few minutes.

Now for the fashionistas!!! The creator of Janum designs asked me to do a photo shoots featuring her wonderful designs. We both used our daughters and I managed to snag another gal (who probably looks familiar) since her mom had just gotten her own Janum designs. These three girls had so much fun! They pretended to be princesses. In these designs, it was not much of a stretch!

Such a Terrible Blogger Am I!!!!

2010-06-04T19:53:00.001-07:00

I have neglected my poor blog.... if it was a pet, it would have died a long time ago. Here are just a few shots of my recent shoots. I've had an unbelievably busy month! I am so blessed and thankful that I have had the opportunity to capture so many precious moments!

Ahh Baby Bliss!!!

2010-05-22T05:37:00.000-07:00

I have been AWOL on my blog for a while. I have a bunch of shoots to show you so I will be putting them up when I can.

This little guy is a 6 month old cutie. His father actually played softball with my husband back in another life. Years later we all have kids now and his wife contacted me to do Little T's photos. I actually don't know why they needed me when T's dad has some great camera equipment himself. I definitely had some envy issues!

He was such a joy.... tons of smiles and BIG BLUE EYES!

Father's Day is Coming!!

2010-05-13T19:36:00.000-07:00

I had a local mom approach me to do photos of her children (and stepchildren) for a Father's Day surprise for her husband. I was assured that I could post these photos without worrying about ruining the surprise since apparently hubby isn't too internet saavy.

It was a HOT day as we walked the grounds of Vanderbilt Mansion but we managed to hit several prime locations. I especially had fun bonding with the little ones.... Mr S had a GREAT personality while Miss R was all about batting those baby blues.

These kids also made me appreciate dandelions :)

A Hot Hot Day

2010-05-06T07:18:00.001-07:00

Spring arrived and then quickly turned to summer (and now we're back to spring) so my sessions this weekend were in 80 + degree weather. All of the kids were troopers though as we enjoyed our time together.

One of my mommy friends decided she wanted some photos of her 3 adorable kids at her father's work place of over 30 years. We were able to use the same building she and her husband had their wedding photos taken which is on the campus where her father had worked. It was hot, but we finally got the shot.... and then headed over to dad's firehouse for the real fun!

Maternity Session with a Great Family

2010-05-04T19:28:00.000-07:00

This weekend was a WHIRLWIND of photo shoots (2 were reschedules due to ill-timed rain over the last few weekends) so I found myself with camera in hand and out the door.

One of the best parts of my job is getting to photograph friends. Mike and Jackie have been friends of ours for many years and I was thrilled when Jackie told me she wanted me to do some maternity photos of her. Much to my dismay... Miss Jackie (who is due soon) looked about 2 seconds pregnant!

Their gorgeous daughter (soon to be "big sister") was the centerpiece of our time together and she couldn't have been more pleasant. I can't wait to meet their new little one!

I Heart Faces: Smiles!

2010-04-25T20:26:00.000-07:00

This week at I Heart Faces it's all about SMILES. This was really tough for me since I have had the privilege of shooting some of the most beautiful smiles I've ever seen. So I had to pick one that stood out to me and here it is:

I mean, I've photographed tons of smiles... but I think this one stands out since he has such joy at a simple pleasure... being pushed on a swing by his mom... I don't think he realized the camera was there!!

I hope you take the time to enter your photo at I Heart Faces!!!

Beautiful Babies!

2010-04-25T19:28:00.001-07:00

I am just adoring the little ones I've had a chance to meet in the last few weeks. First up is little A... and she is friends with another cutie I photographed back in March. We had a beautiful day to take pictures. At 6 months old, she was so sweet and cooperative. She even put up with mommy and me dressing her (and undressing and getting dressed again) with nothing but smiles. Her beautiful mommy got into the act too.

Last week, I met a little one who is the youngest of NINE... and if the other 8 are half as gorgeous, I think this family should have 9 more.... too much cuteness. Little M is almost a year old and mom thought it was important that this little one not suffer the same fate as many of us "youngest children" where they reach adulthood and realize that A. there are only a few photographs and B. all of those photographs also feature older siblings (not that I'm speaking from experience as the youngest of 4!)

Spring/Summer Mini Sessions & Portrait Parties!

2010-04-22T16:35:00.000-07:00

Brown Eyes Can't Feel Left Out!

2010-04-20T14:02:00.001-07:00

Ahh the soulful eyes of a brown eyed child.

This week I took a brother-sister team over to one of my favorite locations for a nice morning photo shoot. Big brother was sooooo sweet to his little sister. She was a little shy but I couldn't resist those big brown eyes. Mom has beautiful big brown eyes too but wouldn't let me take her picture!

I'm lucky enough to have a friend who is due in just a few weeks so she has been nice enough to let me do a maternity shoot with her little man. He can't wait to become a big brother. We had a great time running around this property while snapping photos of him and mommy. Can't wait to meet his little sister in a few weeks, though I think mom is about ready for me to meet her TOMORROW!

So Many Blue Eyed Beauties!!

2010-04-19T11:32:00.001-07:00

The blue eyes have been out in FORCE recently. In one week I had photographed 4 blue eyed beauties.

Up first is a brother and sister combo that were just a joy to photograph. Big brother was a total ham and very cooperative. His sister was a little more "on the go" but still stopped to flash those baby blues for me. I don't think I've ever seen such a combination of big & blue eyes on a child!

Up next I got to spend some time with my neighbor's blue eyed beauties. The B-man wanted nothing to do with photos this day but luckily, they live about 1/2 a mile away so I can catch him anytime.

Little sister was, of course, ready for her close up!

More Great Weather, More Local Cuties!

2010-04-06T19:20:00.001-07:00

The weather in the Valley couldn't be any nicer for early April and I am really starting to get rolling with my spring shoots. Earlier this week I was privileged to do my very first communion shoot. This little doll got to have her very first up-do (which, as the mother of two girls of my own, I can totally appreciate!). She looked like a little angel.

I'm glad her little brother was able to get into the act... Mr B was quite the charmer as we had a super casual "let's go to the playground" photo shoot.

Spring is HERE!

2010-04-03T16:37:00.000-07:00

Finally!!!! The days are getting nice and my clients are treating me to some of the best locations in the Hudson Valley. The father of these cuties works at Vassar so he was able to steer us toward some great locations on campus.

Try not to be jealous of the red hair... I know I was!

Such a loving pair!

I love that they climbed into this canoe that was sitting on the shore.... check out the dirty knees!

This little boy was full of adventure while his sister was 100% girl!

Girls! Girls! Girls!

2010-04-03T16:22:00.000-07:00

I wasn't sure I was going to have any successful shoots in the past week. We had record setting rainfall for the early part of the week and I was sure that my shoots later in the week would be a washout but I am glad I was wrong. The weather was utterly spectacular as I traveled over to Dutchess County for two great shoots.

My first shoot was rescheduled twice due to rain but well worth the wait. I met 3 adorable sisters. They couldn't look any different but each was a beauty in her own right.

I followed up this fabulous trio with a photo shoot with a little girl I hadn't seen in quite some time and I can't believe how fast time flies! She's now 3 and was totally a charmer. Miss M is definitely the apple of her parents' eyes and was such a pleasure to photograph.

Are You a VIP?

2010-03-30T19:32:00.000-07:00

I started taking photos of my girls in coordination with my scrapbooking. As I grew in knowledge, I expanded to taking photos of other children and their families. What I am now realizing is that not everyone has the time or energy to put into great family photos but would love the opportunity to have more than one session a year. I have come up with 2 VIP packages for new and returning clients. These deals offer lower costs per session which will allow families to book throughout the year.

Both packages are flexible and will allow my clients to book at any point throughout the year. The year starts the day of the first shoot (so it's not a Jan-Dec timeline).

VIP members not only will get discounted photo shoots and free 8x10's but will also be privy to VIP Exclusive deals. Email me at meg@jeunegirl.com for more information on how to enroll.
The "Brynne" package would be perfect for a new mom.

2010 Rates are Here

2010-03-29T16:08:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, March 31st is the deadline to book your spring and summer shoot to take advantage of 2009 rates. As of April 1st, all shoots booked will be able to take advantage of my new rates (along with a few bonuses!

Thanks to all who have helped me successfully launch Jeune Girl Photography in the fall of 2009.

Don't Miss Out

2010-03-28T19:23:00.001-07:00

Wednesday, March 31st is the deadline to book your spring/summer session to take advantage of my 2009 rates. I have very limited weekend availability through June but weekdays are readily available through early June. I hope to hear from you.

Remember to send your friends my way.... if 4 of your friends book (and actually carry through!) with their shoot, YOU get a free shoot! Word of mouth is my favorite way to advertise, not because it's cheap, but because it shows that people like my work and want others to have the same opportunity... share the love!!

Antique Fire Hydrant

2010-03-23T18:54:00.000-07:00

This is an antique fire hydrant that I encountered on a shoot last week. I thought it was so handsome that it deserved its own moment in the sun.

Photo Sessions Galore!

2010-03-21T19:06:00.000-07:00

With last week's terrible rains, I had to reschedule a shoot I was really looking forward to doing. Who knew then that THIS weekend would be absolutely gorgeous!? I met with 3 great families this weekend and had 3 very different types of shoots.... never a dull moment. I am so lucky to live in an area that offers so many fantastic locations.

My first stop brought me into the city of Poughkeepsie. My client is being a little hush-hush about her photos since she's going to be using them for her upcoming party but I figured she wouldn't mind if I showed off her awesome shoes:

Sunday morning I got to head to my alma mater, Marist College, for a fun photo shoot with the children of a friend of mine. I've known these cuties for a while now and Miss A is a Daisy Scout along with my daughter.

I wrapped up my whirlwind weekend at another great valley location with a family I only met recently but already love. Miss J... aka "Fizz" (love that nickname!) is quite the supermodel in the making while brother "D" is just a sweetheart. Their parents were absolutely wonderful in getting the children to relax while a strange lady snapped photos of them. I'm actually thinking of renting out John for future use at photo shoots. I wonder what his fee is?

Spring is in the Air....

2010-03-18T17:24:00.000-07:00

... and photo shoots are coming at me quickly. Today was the second of many shoots ahead for me in the coming weeks. I was lucky enough to get an email from this mom earlier this week asking to reschedule next week's shoot for this Thursday. Today was BEAUTIFUL in the Hudson Valley... 70 degrees and sunny. I got to meet 3 adorable children who were so much fun to work with.

Parents, if you're paying attention, promises of going fishing are good bribes to use!

Oh, and did I mention, they're big fans of my favorite team?

Torrential Downpours!!

2010-03-13T19:42:00.000-08:00

Well, this was supposed to be my big first weekend of shoots to really kick off the spring season but Mother Nature has intervened (raise your hand if you're surprised seeing as it rained on my wedding day, college graduation, 2 Brad Paisley OUTDOOR concerts... the list goes on) so my shoot for tomorrow is probably postponed unless we have a Christmas miracle in mid-March.

But today's shoot went on as planned... the weather had no effect on the photos at the flower show in Kingston! You might recognize this little guy (scroll down to the bottom of the blog) as he is my neighbor's son (and playmate of my Catrina). Marina has been one of the earliest supporters of Jeune Girl Photography and has always encouraged me to pursue photography.

Mommy overcame her shyness here and joined in the fun.

Happy Early Easter!

Oh, and if there is a camera around, my kids are bound to be there too:

Wearin' of the Green

2010-03-09T11:36:00.001-08:00

I knew I wanted to get a photo of my green eyed beauty for some St Patrick's Day fun so the donut was a natural prop. She didn't want to change her shirt so I just threw on a scarf but in the pulled back photo, I am busted for having her in her Valentine's Day shirt instead.

What Every Girl Needs:

2010-03-04T18:47:00.000-08:00

My ultra talented friend, Abbie, makes some gorgeous hats for babies, little girls, teens, (ahem... adults... yes, I have one!). I can't recommend her more. I've got quite a selection of handmade hats courtesy of her shop: Heartsmiles.etsy.com. She also has a very active fan page on Facebook.

20 Inches of Snow!!

2010-03-03T05:33:00.000-08:00

This is what 20 inches of snow looks like!

Casting Call Results.... with a TWIST!

2010-03-01T18:01:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to # 41 on winning the casting call. That cutie will be getting a free photo shoot with a complimentary 8x10 photo as well as $25 in free merchandise from Lyla's Lovelies.

Coming in a close 2nd was #26 who will have the option of booking a half price photo shoot with a free hair bow from Lyla's Lovelies.

But here is the TWIST!!!!!! I just adored all of the entries and wanted to give another photo shoot at random to one of the entrants so I took myself over to Random.org (one of my favorite sites) and had them generate a random number between 1-42 (and hoped not to see 41 or 26) and came up with.....

39!!!!

So she too will receive a FREE photo shoot. Congratulations.

All entries will receive a discount toward a photo shoot this year as well as a purchase from Lyla's Lovelies

Let the Games Begin!

2010-02-20T18:20:00.000-08:00

We have been overwhelmed with the response to our first casting call for Jeune Girl Photography and Lyla's Lovelies. Over 30 cuties are in the voting!! Feel free to link this post to friends and family so they can vote. Voting ends at 9 pm on Feb 28th. The winner will be announced March 1. All entrants will receive a discount on a future photo shoot and purchase from Lyla's Lovelies.
Thanks to everyone for taking the time to check out our beautiful entrants.

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Fan Page Blitz!

2010-02-16T10:01:00.000-08:00

This is a pretty exciting week for Jeune Girl Studio. First, there is the February 20th deadline for local girls 7 & under to enter my first ever casting call in coordination with Lyla's Lovelies.

Secondly, I'd like to start a FAN PAGE BLITZ! From NOW until February 28th I will be opening the floodgates and encouraging friends to recommend me to THEIR friends on Facebook.

Here is how it works:
1. Become a Fan Yourself (skip step one if you are one of the 286 people already on board) by clicking here:
Jeune Girl on Facebook

2. In the top left, just under my logo you'll see a link to SUGGEST TO FRIENDS and you can click on your own friends and send a suggestion. (you may also want to send a separate note because step #3 is REALLY IMPORTANT if you want to win)

3. When your friend becomes a fan he/she should leave a comment somewhere on my wall or on the photo of the prize with your name as having recommended them to join.

4. Whoever recommends the MOST FRIENDS by 9 pm Eastern Time on 2/28 will win:

(she is wearing a denim skirt... the apron itself is the red top with straps down to the green polka dots)

**GOOD LUCK**

I Heart Faces: I Wanna Dance!

2010-02-15T10:50:00.000-08:00

.... and who doesn't? Brynne was certainly ready for her moment before her big recital:

Snow Day!

2010-02-11T07:27:00.000-08:00

Well, the weathermen acted like the sky was falling and, naturally, the powers that be gave the kids a day off from school. We then proceeded to get a whopping 2 inches of snow. To top it off, they also gave us a 2 hour delay for no apparent reason this morning. But I was afforded the opportunity to get outside and practice photographing the girls out in the snow. Snow photography is pretty tricky so practice is pretty important.

Jeune Girl Photography: Booking for Spring & Summer

2010-02-08T18:37:00.000-08:00

For someone who is pretty new to the world of booking shoots, I think I'm pretty darn busy! I have very limited availability for April and May (well, part of that is due to the fact that one of my very best best friends is getting married in May). If you hope to have a photo shoot with me, please contact me soon.

If you are not familiar with my work, I invite you to scroll through my blog and see the photos I've taken. I am also a professional crafter and make many of my own props that I bring to my shoots. What I can't make myself, I make sure to find the best of the best who provide me with so many goodies to bring to my shoots. (below is an apron I made to bring to photo shoots... little girls LOVE to get dressed up)

I hope to hear from many of you.

Jeune Girl & Lyla's Lovelies Casting Call!

2010-01-25T18:50:00.000-08:00

Email your entry to meg@jeunegirl.com!! Thanks and good luck!

I Heart Faces: Texture Challenge

2010-01-25T10:15:00.000-08:00

I applied texture to the bricks and the door to really pop the color on this 200 year old house.

Contests are open for entries on Mondays and Tuesdays so definitely check them out!

My Sweet Valentines!

2010-01-24T06:28:00.000-08:00

This whole photography thing for me started with my girls. Don't get me wrong, I've always taken photos (8 rolls of film on my honeymoon will attest to that... yes I've been married so long that my photos from the honeymoon and my wedding are on FILM) but I started really getting interested in taking better photos when my girls came along.

Actually, it was because of my girls that I started taking on clients. I got some compliments on my photos of my girls and had people ask if I would do their photos too and it's just grown from there. I'm lucky to have these two little cuties to practice on. They are both pretty cooperative with me when I need to get a few key shots. I couldn't resist photographing them in for Valentine's Day. Now to make a card to send out! (in my spare time!)

Announcement Coming: Next Week

2010-01-20T10:39:00.000-08:00

Get ready... Jeune Girl Photography in collaboration with Lyla's Lovelies Designs will be making a big announcement that any parent of a local girl (Dutchess & Ulster County, New York) does NOT want to miss.

Canvas Prints: Available to My Clients

2010-01-18T10:50:00.000-08:00

I was lucky to have an opportunity to get a great deal on some canvases so I decided to order 6 of them for my own wall (all from my trip to Ireland) while 3 clients also joined me in this great deal. They all came out fabulous and I am confident that any client that decides to purchase one will be very pleased.

Pick of the Day at Colorinc Lab!

2010-01-13T10:19:00.000-08:00

I am so proud to say that my photo (edited by my friend and awesome photographer Nick Sardino) was chosen as the photo of the day for colorinc labs. This photo (along with 5 others) will be a canvas on my wall very soon!

Click ::here:: to see

I <3 Faces : Best Faces: Hudson Valley Children's Photography

2010-01-12T05:14:00.000-08:00

This week the challenge is focus on faces and when I think faces I am always drawn to Miss C's smirk! LOL Love this photo!

Want to enter? Head over to:

If You See Me Out & About....

2010-01-11T12:06:00.000-08:00

... be sure to ask for one of these:

or better yet... ask for 3 or 4 and pass them along.

First Shoot of 2010 !

2010-01-06T10:54:00.000-08:00

This shoot was actually scheduled 2 days ago and this mom was eager to try me out. I can't wait to work with her again. She is a crafty mom too... she designs adorable hair bows. You can friend her on Facebook (Lylas Lovelies) to find out more. I'm actually hoping to collaborate with her on some photo shoots this spring. She's got a built in model with Miss L... what a salesgirl for the bows! She's a walking advertisement. Her big brother is super cute too. Both had amazingly gorgeous baby blues! Definitely a great way to start out 2010.

Photography Details 2010

2010-01-04T12:47:00.001-08:00

I <3 Faces

2010-01-04T11:22:00.000-08:00

I stumbled upon this great blog that runs weekly contests for photographers both amateur and professional (or somewhere in between).

Can't forget the all important disclaimer!

“I am submitting this photo into the I Heart Faces logo photo contest. By entering, I am granting I Heart Faces LLC permission to consider my photo for use in the marketing and promotion of their website.”

Announcing: Jeune Girl Studio

2010-01-01T20:09:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! I am happy to announce the merging of all of my creative arenas under one title: Jeune Girl Studio. "Studio" just encompasses all aspects of my business.... from scrapbooking to digital design and photography. In the coming weeks I will be working on a new website combining everything onto one page for easier navigation.

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T08:05:00.000-08:00

So as we leave 2009 behind us I must say that if I had told myself on New Year's Day 2009 that in one year I would have people asking me for photos that they were out of their mind. This was not in the plans for me but plans definitely evolve. Thanks to everyone who pushed me to take my photos to the next level including:

my amazing husband

everyone behind the scenes who believed in me even when I didn't.... those of you who have given me invaluable info along the way (Nick, Jeff, dad)

those who took a leap of faith on a rookie including:
my neighbors Marina (who is my biggest fan!), Tracy, Dana, & Elisa
my dance school pals Cindy, Jenna, and Alyse
my friends Ruth, Liz, Stephanie, Jessica, Becky, Kathy, Elissa, Katharine, Cristen, and Christy

I'm hoping for more challenges and adventures in 2010!

I leave you with images from my last 2 shoots of 2010, held on Dec 30, 2009 (got in just under the wire)

My friend's gorgeous daughter

A Giveaway!!! Jeune Girl Style!

2009-12-23T13:47:00.001-08:00

Jump on over to my crafts blog for all the details.... I am giving away a photo shoot!!! Check it out!

http://jeunegirlcrafts.blogspot.com

What a Year!

2009-12-18T15:15:00.000-08:00

When this year began I never knew how far I'd come with photography. I have always enjoyed photographing my own kids so it was a natural progression to expand my horizons and get out there and start doing more landscape photos and photo shoots with other people's kids!

I think I've learned a great deal this year and hope to continue to learn and grow in the new year. I am thankful to the many people I've encountered who have let me into their lives to help create memories for them while growing my own skills. In 2010, I hope to see many of these families again and also to "meet new and interesting people.... and shoot them" (stole that line from an anti-military bumper sticker... it's actually funny from my own perspective).

Here's a look back at my year in photos:

More Party!

2009-12-15T18:10:00.000-08:00

Here are some more candid photos from the party on Sunday. My neighbor has so many great friends who are daring since there was quite an ice storm going on outside during this event. Luckily everyone made it safe and sound (including me, but all I had to do was walk up the road with Catrina)

Some of the cutie pie boys:

My neighbor and one of his beautiful aunts.

Miss C was an adorable twin. Her brother was a little more rascally... I'll have to see if I have photos of him to post. He was quite the moving target!

Birthday Boy!

2009-12-14T08:44:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of being asked to photograph my neighbor's son's birthday celebration. So many kids! So many adults! I was all over the place but I hope I captured a few nice shots. I also got to meet my neighbor's family. They are so much fun! Can't wait to go back and hang out when I can let loose!

2009-12-12T08:12:00.000-08:00

I was asked by a very talented friend to have Catrina model a hat for her Etsy shop. I was happy to oblige and now Catrina is happy with her new hat... smiles all around!

You can check out her Etsy shop HERE

Tell her Catrina sent you!

Impromptu

2009-12-08T05:21:00.001-08:00

Sometimes the very best and most candid photos are the ones taken when you're just out in the yard with family and friends.

2009-12-06T19:01:00.000-08:00

Time is getting closer for the big day... contact me for ordering details for holiday cards! This little cutie is one of three I spent my morning with.... baby blues galore! More photos to come!

It's All About the Girls!

2009-11-30T13:51:00.001-08:00

Well, I can't be surprised since most of my shoots have been friends of my girls or in some way associated with my own 2 little ladies. I had earlier shoots featuring some adorable boys but lately, it's all girls!

Thankful!

2009-11-26T18:48:00.000-08:00

And who wouldn't be with a family this beautiful!?

Happy Thanksgiving!

Blue Eyed Beauties

2009-11-22T20:11:00.000-08:00

These two local beauties were sporting some serious baby blues!

Need to thank my model here for showing off my new toy:

Cute & Feisty

2009-11-22T13:19:00.001-08:00

Miss C sure brought some personality with her today!

And those are some serious eyes!

Vacation!

2009-11-20T10:24:00.000-08:00

More photos from my recent trip to Ireland

2009-11-17T19:17:00.000-08:00

I loved this building that we found on a little back road on our drive around the Ring of Kerry

I'm Back from Vacation!

2009-11-16T11:44:00.000-08:00

... and, boy, do I have a TON of pictures to show for it. I spent 8 days on a dream vacation with my wonderful husband in Ireland. It was so amazing to step back in time and walk the lands of my ancestors. I saw some sights that will forever be awe inspiring. In fact, a man we met in a pub said that if the weather in Ireland were better, it would be impossible to keep the tourists away. It's the most beautiful place on earth (well, at least I am convinced that it is!)

Yes it is

2009-11-04T10:28:00.000-08:00

Country Living at Its Best

2009-11-01T20:25:00.000-08:00

I am a NYC gal born and bred but I so do love living in the "country" (people in the real country would laugh at the Hudson Valley being considered the country but it is to me). Hey, there were chickens right behind us in this building and cows across the street so it seemed legit.

This farm, located in Gardiner, NY, was beautiful. Everywhere we turned there was another great spot to take a photo. The lovely lady featured here is the older sister of that fabulous red head (Catrina's dance school pal) from last month. Their mother wanted me to photograph two of her other children and we're hoping to coordinate with the elusive daughter who lives in the "boonies"... which is even MORE country than the "country" of the Hudson Valley.

The Future's So Bright...

2009-10-27T13:38:00.001-07:00

... do I need to finish the line?

Little Beauties Make My Life Easy!

2009-10-22T09:46:00.001-07:00

For some reason, the people who choose to have me photograph their children always have such cute little ones! It's always easy when your subject matter is so adorable AND cooperative!!

This little lady had eyes that were so green! As anyone who knows me
can attest... I have a real soft spot for green eyed beauties.

.... and Huguenot Street might have to start charging me rent.

Such a Fun Family

2009-10-18T20:10:00.001-07:00

My friend asked me to take some relaxed family photos and I was happy to accommodate her. Her children were energetic and so much fun to work with. I hope she's pleased with the results! I know I can't get enough of these wonderful fall days!

More Fun this Fall

2009-10-16T10:00:00.000-07:00

Last week I met with a great family over at, where else?, Huguenot Street to take some photos and take advantage of the great surroundings and fall colors. This little guy was such a ham and really fun to photograph. His mom brought his costume which was just perfect for the quaint (not scary!) old cemetary that is part of the historic district in town.

Fall Fun

2009-10-15T11:38:00.000-07:00

I live in an oasis of autumn. New York's Hudson Valley is a destination for out of town people looking to peek at nature's beauty. I only had to drive a few minutes (to our church, actually) to get these shots of the girls. This photo shoot was 100% for the express purpose of getting some photos of their cute hats for a holiday card. I had the added bonus of getting shots of them playing in the leaves as well as the great scenery of historic Huguenot Street.

Another Dance Cutie

2009-10-12T19:45:00.000-07:00

My girls take dance classes with some real cuties! Their moms are very cool too so we've had long chats about finally getting together to do some shoots. We managed to squeeze this one in as my girls were in their class this week.

Morning Rainbow

2009-10-07T10:18:00.000-07:00

Saw this beauty this morning as I got my daughter on the school bus. What a great way to start the day!

Here's to the Hudson Valley

2009-10-05T09:51:00.000-07:00

Holiday Greetings

2009-10-01T19:38:00.001-07:00

Loving these templates !

Loving the New Hat

2009-09-29T12:48:00.000-07:00

Grandma took us on a shopping spree today and this great new hat and mitten set from the GAP were just irresistable. Both girls will be sporting them this winter.

Fiery Red Head

2009-09-27T19:22:00.001-07:00

How gorgeous is this little lady? I am lucky to be acquainted with such cute kids in my day to day life that I don't need to go far to find my models. This sweetie is in dance class with my daughter and her mother was excited for us to have a nice day at the farm for a playdate with Catrina.

Playing with Logos

2009-09-22T19:21:00.000-07:00

Everyone tells me how important having a watermark or some kind of visual image on my photos to both protect the image from illegal downloads (ok, it doesn't stop people but it makes them work harder by having to remove it somehow) and to be a form of advertisement. I usually just do a plain copyright but tonight I was playing with my fonts and did a variation of what I had been incorporating in my Jeune Girl Crafts.

Recent Photos

2009-09-21T10:21:00.001-07:00

I went with my family on a nice long walk in a great park in Rhinebeck, NY.

250 mm comes in handy sometimes:

Let's move on to much cuter things shall we?

My sassy lassie:

A Sweet Moment:

This one makes it look easy:

Note Cards Now Available

2009-09-19T16:26:00.000-07:00

I have taken some of my personal favorite landscape photos and created photo cards which are available to purchase individually or in sets. Contact me for price details. These items will be available to purchase when I attend the Apple Festival at the Reformed Church in New Paltz on October 3rd. I hope you come out for some great apple treats, music, games, AND Jeune Girl Crafts!

If there is a photo shown on my flog, Facebook, or Flickr that you like, let me know and I can make it into a card or sell as a print.

2009-09-12T19:19:00.000-07:00

Sweet Boy

2009-09-11T21:13:00.000-07:00

I had a serious case of empty nest with both of my girls in school this week so I had to go for the next best thing.... OTHER PEOPLE'S KIDS! My neighbor was willing to let her little boy pose for me so I could get more practice and she could get some new shots of her little guy.... and his cute teddy.

Maine

2009-08-27T11:41:00.000-07:00

From my family vacation in Kennebunkport:

Going to the Birds

2009-08-14T10:15:00.000-07:00

More Portraits

2009-08-10T10:01:00.001-07:00

Life on the Back Roads

2009-08-06T17:31:00.001-07:00

This week I've spend a lot of time traveling the back roads of the county while carting my daughter to and from camp. I vowed to bring my camera when I MISSED the mother and baby deer just outside the camp. These are the highlights:

Sights of Summer

2009-08-04T14:42:00.000-07:00

Summer Magic

2009-08-01T04:46:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh sweet summertime. Everywhere I've turned this summer I've had a great chance to take photos.

I just stepped out my front door and saw this CRAZY CLOUD in the west. I ran back inside to get my camera. My dad, who was visiting who is also an avid photographer dropped what he was doing too.... we looked pretty geeky out there trying to capture this unique cloud.

Isn't this a sweet sunflower. I loved how a few of the petals were curling in slightly.

I am lucky to live in an area where the weather changes rapidly and we are treated to rainbows quite often and always in the same spot. My girls are even trained to run to the side window after a storm clears to look for them. This one did not last long but I was able to get some shots.

Photos from the Ulster County Fair:

Party Time!

2009-07-26T18:42:00.000-07:00

Little Cuties

2009-07-26T07:13:00.000-07:00

One of my scrapbooking clients from last year returned this year for more pages. When she found out I could also process her photos for her pages she was very excited. With cuties like this, I didn't have to work to hard on these photos. For Daelin, I only did some small adjustments but for Greylyn, I did the works!

2009-07-23T12:34:00.000-07:00

Wedding Photos

2009-07-20T20:48:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure of attending my sister in law's wedding last weekend and I have hundreds of photos to go through but have begun editing them. I will add them to this blog as I go.

One of the many scenic vistas on the road to Potsdam, NY

Angelic Flower Girl

Joyous Day:

Happy Flower Girls:

Here is my little one at her first trip to the beauty salon.

Heeeeeere's Catrina

2009-07-16T08:12:00.001-07:00

She looks like something out of the Shining.

But at least her sister looks super sweet.

The ballerina photo was the easiest lesson of all the lessons I've learned from my class so far. Made my lesson a breeze!