Welcome to the most random entry that you’ll see weekly on the blog.  I do most of my big thoughts and reflecting on the weekends and this is the culmination of that.  You’re welcome.  I will sprinkle in photos so you don’t get too bored.  Or you could just skip to the most pertinent info which will usually hang out at the end of the post!  N-E-ways….welcome to Monday Musings v1.0!

Hurricane Irene

In my town we were very, very lucky.  We received only about 3 to 4 inches of rain and not too much wind until late evening yesterday.  Towns west and north west of us were not so lucky.  Buckland and Shelburne Falls in MA are dealing with the significant rise of the Deerfield River and Brattleboro, VT is a mess.  Just to show some of you not familiar with the area – here are a couple snapshots taken by my mother-in-law Pam when she and my father-in-law Norman took Adam to visit the Bridge of Flowers at Shelburne Falls in June; and a comparison shot from photographer Jeff Brown, and The Republican website.

I’m just hoping everyone can keep towns like these, and the many others (as well as those that got hit south of us on the East Coast) in your thoughts and help out if you see the need or opportunity.  Not only is it the right thing to do, but also it makes you feel good.  Like a nice grilled cheese.  Or a fluffy teddy bear.

Oh Crap Potty Training (…no it’s really called that)

On a lighter note, I was going to go cold turkey and potty train the munchkin this week.  I think this maybe my next purchase.

The Easiest 30 Day Commitment You’ll (and I’ll) Probably Never Do

I was thinking of hosting a 30 day photo challenge but not sure there would be any interest…hit me up in the comments if the idea of taking one themed picture a day doesn’t make you want to stab out your eyes.

Oh Hey…It’s A 5k

My very good friend, April, ran her first 5k on Saturday.  I am inspired and cannot be more proud of her.  I think she’s running another one in October, and I’m tempted to join her.  Not only would it be a great accomplishment (since I personally like running about as much as I like washing dishes), but it might help me work off those chocolate chip cookies I made yesterday and the peanut butter blossoms I plan on making today.

April’s the gorgeous rockstar with the sunglasses as a tiara look.  I recently did a fantastic birthday session for her daughter’s 4^th birthday, which I plan on showcasing on the blog soon.  I wish we could have been there to cheer her on, but we were doing some pretty exciting things on Saturday ourselves…

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT

Carey Hough Photography is expanding!  Recently my husband’s role at his work has grown which will cause us to move house.  Towards the end of September we will be relocating to the lakes region of New Hampshire.  While it’s bittersweet, since I’ve lived my whole life in Western Massachusetts and my family is here, I’m looking forward to a new chapter and exciting new opportunities and adventures.  Massachusetts and Connecticut clients shouldn’t worry…I will still be covering the area because my family is still here and let’s face it…all my clients and potential clients that live here flippin’ rock.  There’s no way I would leave you.  Mini sessions are still going on as planned as well.   I do only have a couple more spots left, so if you’re even considering them you should probably contact me soon before they’re gone like my chocolate chip cookies.

Enjoy your Monday Funday!  Especially those of you who got today off of school (I’m looking at you amazing teachers who are getting one more glorious sunshine filled day!!!).

 

 

It’s hard for me to believe – but this time last year I was taking my niece Rachael’s senior photos.  It’s harder for me to believe that any day now she’ll be starting her freshman year of college.  I am so amazed at what a beautiful person she is inside and out…and she has the BEST taste in music.  I know she’s going to succeed at whatever she chooses to do – she has a great drive and desire to do well.  I thought I’d share some of my favorite shots from that day last year.

Love you Rachael girl!  You’re gonna do amazing!!!

Just a note – I will be gone for a few days.  I will still be checking the email and available by phone, but I may take a few extra hours to get back to you.  We still have a few spaces left in the Fall Mini Sessions but they’re going quick!  Get in touch with me so I can reserve your spot!!!

I’m excited to announce that this year I will be offering Fall Mini Sessions!!!

 

 

Mini Session Details:

When: October 1st (rain date October 2nd)

Where: Outdoor Western MA location TBD

Who: Up to 5 people

What: 30 minute mini session, gallery of up to 5 images, one 8”x10” mounted print, choice of 25 flat 5”x7” holiday cards or one digital negative, 10% a la carte prints

How much: $99 plus MA sales tax

Terms: Full payment is required before time slot is reserved. Payment can be made in the form of cash, check or PayPal.  Fee is non-refundable; however, should you need to cancel your session, fee may be applied to a full session held in 2011 as long as 24 hours notice is given.  Any images taken may be used by Carey Hough Photography for the purpose of display, advertising, portfolio and website development.  Client must sign electronic or hard copy of Mini Session Portrait Agreement & Model Release prior to session.  Please see portrait contract for additional terms and conditions.

Questions: email carey@careyhoughphotography.com

 

Mini Session FAQ’s:

What is a mini session?

A mini session is a shortened version of my full photography sessions.  It’s great for that updated family picture for holiday cards and gifts, or an introduction to custom photography for those who have never had the opportunity to have a session before.  Mini sessions are best for five people or less and over the age of 4 months.

I have a newborn – they can’t be in my mini session?

I have no problem with newborns, or including them in a mini session.  However, newborns and babies under 4 months of age are time intensive subjects to photograph due to all that comes along with that age (feedings, diaper changes, clothing changes if baby has made a mess).  If you are looking for individual shots of just your baby then you should contact me about a newborn/baby session which has it’s own pricing.

I have a pet/furbaby.  Can they be in my mini session?

Absolutely, so long as you can keep control over them.  If you know your pet doesn’t do well in different environments or with strangers, it’s better for your pet that they maybe sit this one out.

How long until I see my photos?

Your gallery will be up for viewing within 14 days (though I will strive for sooner).  Your gallery will be active for 14 days from when it is uploaded for viewing, sharing and ordering.  If you need to extend your gallery viewing beyond 14 days a $20 charge will apply.

What’s a digital negative and why would I want one?

A digital negative is the high-resolution digital file of a fully edited image.  In addition to the file, I will give you a print release that allows for unlimited printing up to size 8”x10”.  This is great for making your own holiday cards, personal prints or scrapbooking!

The package says we’ll have up to 5 images to look at, but only includes 1 of the images on disc.  Can I get them all?

If you are interested in a disc of the remaining images we get from the session, one can be purchased for $50 (up to five images).  Please note that these images will be soft edited (exposure tweaked, color balanced, light blemish removal) but will not have full artistic edits.  The image you choose as part of the original package price will be fully art edited.

What if it’s cloudy out the day of the shoot?

As long as it’s not raining or thunder storming the day of the shoot, we will go on as scheduled.  Often times people photograph better under cloud cover rather than full sun, though with all things certain exceptions apply.  In the event the day is a washout we will reschedule for the rain date.

What should we wear?

Something casual and comfortable!  We’ll be outside so jewel tones or poppy colors tend to photograph best (avoid black and white unless you love it and must have it since black and white tend to blend into the background).  I’m a big fan of textures and layers.  Avoid text, characters and loud prints if possible.  If your mini session is with the whole family try to avoid the draw toward matchy-matchy outfits.  Pick out one outfit and then coordinate around that.  Think of each outfit as making up one big outfit.  But lastly and most important, do not wear something you are uncomfortable in (it will show in your pictures).  And don’t forget your feet!  They will most likely show in your photographs!

I’m ready to book – how do we do this and what do you need from me?

Awesome!  I’m looking forward to working with you!  Email me at carey@careyhoughphotography.com to line up a time.  There are only six slots available so don’t wait too long.  Your time is only reserved once I receive your full payment.  Payment can be made by cash, check or I can send you a PayPal invoice.

Just wanted to give everyone a heads up.  Starting tomorrow morning, I’ll be away on vacation and will return August 1st.  I’ll still be available over email but it may take a little additional time to hear back from me. I plan to check in nightly for any session inquires or questions that may pop up.

I have a few days open for sessions in August and maybe one or two in September…which looks to be a super busy month.  If you are a 2012 Senior and are wanting to get your senior photos done with a summery or fall feel – make sure you contact me soon so we can put it in the datebook.  Same goes if you are looking for a family session with a fall feel (maybe for your holiday cards?).  Those leaves are gonna turn before we know it!

Cherrio mates!  I’ll check in from Blighty after I sit down with a cuppa.

Props to you if you understood that and know where I’m going.  Also props to my friends over there for remaining my friends after  I totally just stereotyped the crap outta their homeland 🙂