Two Sisters Photography

Alicia -- Senior Pictures

2011-05-04T07:01:00.000-07:00

Last month I was able to shoot my niece's senior photos for her high school graduation invitations. She and her family live on a ton of land in northern Indiana, so it was nice to venture around trying to find cute little spots to take her photos. It was freezing cold, and the wind was blowing, so I think we managed to take all of her pictures in a matter of 15 or 20 minutes! She was a trooper, though!

Alicia, I am so proud of you, and to call you my niece is an honor. I can't believe you are going to be 19 years old in a few short weeks! You have grown into such a beautiful and godly woman - I'm blessed to have you in my life! I love you, sweet girl.

And now for a few of my favorites from our shoot...

Her cat wouldn't leave her alone - too funny!

Brand new client special!

2011-01-12T10:26:00.000-08:00

Since our holiday promotion has expired, Danielle and I still wanted to slash our prices for our incoming NEW clients. Check out our flyer, and be sure to book a session with us soon. We would love to hear from you!

We love Photoshop!

2011-01-12T00:02:00.000-08:00

We have gotten some questions and emails regarding how we edit our photos after our sessions, and if we in fact use Photoshop. The simple answer to that question is YES!

We have used Photoshop for many years... since the 7.0 version! Since then, thankfully, we have graduated to CS 3... and we're not sure what we'd do without it! Danielle and I both take the time to edit each and every one of your photos, to ensure the best possible final image. Sometimes very little editing is required, but at other times, we may spend up to an hour or more on any one image, depending on what we're trying to accomplish or the effect we're trying to get. During our sessions, the lighting may not always be at our preference... too little light, too much light, shadows, etc... and Photoshop enables us to edit the raw images to change that. So, as you can tell, we are big fans!

So, we thought we'd give you a little example of some edits, with the before and after images. If you are beginning to dabble in photography or design, we absolutely recommend that you start with Photoshop. The newer versions of CS are more expensive, but you can also get the older versions to see if it is something you are interested in or would be able to work with. When you first start to use the program, you may become overwhelmed and not even know where to begin. First, I would tell you to take a deep breath (smile), and be patient, because you're not going to get it in one day. Over time, you will learn more and more, and become more comfortable with the program. There are also many, many tutorials online, and they have come quite in handy for us because even we are still learning. That's the greatest thing about Photoshop... always something new to learn and explore!

With that said, here are some before and after edits. THANK YOU, Photoshop!

Tara

2011-01-11T01:08:00.000-08:00

This beautiful young lady will look quite familiar, as I shot her family at the beginning of this month (the post below). This girl was such a natural in front of the camera; I just knew that I had to photograph her. I asked her if she would be willing to do some modeling for me, and thankfully, she was all for it! So this last Saturday we wandered around Fort Wayne, and even stopped in New Haven, to get the shots that I wanted. Despite the chilly weather, we had a blast shooting, and beyond that, had a great time talking and getting to know one another. This girl is the definition of joy, and she has the heart of a true servant.

Tara - You are a breath of fresh air. The love of Jesus shines through you, and I know that your joyful spirit impacts all of those who surround you. You are an incredible young woman, with such a beautiful heart, and I know that the Lord has great things in store for your life. You are a leader and a great example to young people. Thank you for your willingness and for making our time together so memorable. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 often comes to mind when I think of you... "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." Thank you for living out the true definition of LOVE. You are a blessing!

{Yes, that would be the snow falling down!}

The Long Family

2011-01-05T20:03:00.000-08:00

I was privileged to shoot the Long family's photos at the beginning of this month. Despite the blazingly COLD temperatures, we headed out to one of my favorite locations and got some really great shots! I knew this location would match the camouflage clothing they were wearing quite perfectly. Thanks to the Long family for being so fun and making our session together so enjoyable! It was so great to meet you all!

Ben and Trisha {engagement session}

2011-01-02T15:28:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! Sorry it has been so long since our last blog post here at Two Sisters. Danielle and I have been busy with shoots, and we'd like to thank all of you who have asked us to be a part of creating your memories. It has been such a blessing to meet so many amazing and wonderful people and families. There is nothing we love more than capturing those special moments for you to have as keepsakes for the years to come.

The shoot I'm blogging about today is really special to me and my fiance, Phillip. Phillip's parents had two children who were adopted out before he was born, and we have always wondered where they were and how they were doing. Early last December, Phillip's brother, Ben, found and contacted Phillip's mother on Facebook, and it has been a whirlwind ever since! It has been so wonderful getting to know Ben, and his fiance, Trisha... we are so thankful they are now in our lives. The Lord truly has a way of working things out. (Romans 8:28 comes to mind, one of my favorite verses.) Ben and Trisha came into town after Christmas, and during our visit, we stopped by Botanical Gardens in downtown Fort Wayne to shoot their engagement photos. It was so much fun, and I think we got some really special and beautiful shots.

Ben and Trisha - It has been amazing getting to know you. Phillip and I are so thankful to finally have you in our lives; we think of you every day. We can't wait to be there with you to celebrate your special day in July. We love you both so much!

And now for the photos...

The Sasse Family

2010-11-17T20:52:00.000-08:00

I would like to preface this blog by saying that Danielle and I got a really bad case of the chicken pox when we were 12 years old. Why would I begin this blog with that, you ask? I promise there is good reason for the randomness... :-)

Meet Mandi, her husband, Scott, and their three beautiful children. Mandi and our older sister, Melissa, have been friends since before I can even remember. I remember always telling Melissa, "Mandi is DEFINITELY my favorite out of ALL of your friends!" She was probably just as protective of Danielle and me as our older sister was while we were growing up, AND she didn't mind hanging out with us... which made us feel so cool ;-) When Danielle and I were in fifth grade, we both got the chicken pox right before Christmas... Danielle first, me right after. Mandi came over to hang out with us one night, with Christmas movies in tow. She had already been through the dreaded phase of chicken pox, so she would be just fine... right? Wrong. I remember, days after, my sister getting off the phone and saying, "Well, Mandi has the chicken pox!" I felt so bad! To this day, I can't help but chuckle (sorry, Mandi!) about that.

Anyway, just had to share that story with you... :-) I have such fond memories of spending time with my sister, Melissa, and Mandi, and looking back, I'm so thankful to have had such great influences during my impressionable years. When Mandi contacted me about doing some Christmas photos, I was so excited to meet the newest addition to their sweet family. Though the day was (bitterly) cold, I think we managed to capture some really sweet moments.

Thanks, Mandi, for giving me the privilege of shooting your family's Christmas photos this year! Love you guys!

Meet... Sylvia, Hazel, and Vincent :-)

Cara and Kenzie (take two!)

2010-11-11T04:30:00.000-08:00

You may recall a post I made awhile back featuring Kenzie and her momma. I seriously cannot get enough of this sweet little girl! I'm so glad I have the excuse of shooting photos to see her ;-) She is one of the most beautiful little girls I've ever laid eyes on, and her spunky little character is just the icing on the cake! Sorry to overload you with photos, but I just couldn't decide on which ones to post... there are too many cute ones of her and her beautiful momma! Thanks for being such a sweet blessing to me, Cara and Kenzie.

Holiday SPECIAL and Two Sisters on Facebook!

2010-11-11T03:32:00.001-08:00

It's that time of year again to start preparing for Christmas pictures and cards, so Danielle and I thought we'd make it easy on you (smile) by offering this GREAT deal as the holidays approach! Check out our flyer below for more information... don't miss out on this opportunity!

We also wanted to let you know that we have finally joined the world of Facebook! Please, if you're on Facebook (who isn't these days?!) go to our page and "like" us - we would so appreciate it! :-) Click here to go to our page.

We hope you all are enjoying your week! Blessings to everyone!

Erin

2010-11-06T12:13:00.000-07:00

I just had to share some of these super cute photos that I just shot of my beautiful friend, Erin. She actually won a pageant and needed some photos for her portfolio, and when she contacted me, I was SO excited to get together with her. We had so much fun, even in the blistering cold... :-) She is one of the sweetest people I know! Thanks, Erin, for letting me shoot your photos!

Baby Violet

2010-10-30T04:54:00.002-07:00

Ok, so this is how behind I am... this photo session was from AUGUST! I can't believe I'm just now getting around to publishing a post with some of these pictures, but I wanted to share a few. Meet Violet, my cousin Jen's baby. I loved shooting her because she is always so easy going! Such a sweet and lovable little gal. Enjoy!

Come to the Fire (Women's conference)

2010-10-03T17:43:00.000-07:00

This weekend I was able to attend the incredible Come to the Fire women's conference hosted here in Fort Wayne, Indiana. I left completely refreshed, inspired, and encouraged. Nothing like women gathering in a big room who love the Lord! Though I wasn't able to attend all three days, I so enjoyed the sessions and worship on Friday and Saturday. It was an amazing experience to worship Jesus with so many women who have fervent hearts and passion for the Lord. What a weekend! (Thanks to my dear friend, Deb, for letting me know about it!) I just had to share a handful of my photos with you all.

If you'd like more information on this annual conference, you can visit cometothefire.org for more information. Next year they will be hosting the conference in Ohio... I hope to make it!

The Scheele's

2010-08-22T04:14:00.000-07:00

My sister, brother-in-law, and niece were in town this past week to visit from Minnesota. I was excited to get some new family photos taken for them, and I also took Chloe's four-year old pictures. The Scheele's definitely are one of my favorite families... :-) (Being related has nothing to do with it!) Love and miss you Melissa, Nathan, and Chloe!

Moving on up!

2010-06-22T20:18:00.000-07:00

Last week I finally ordered some portable studio equipment that will enable me to travel to client's houses and set up for more classic style portraits. I was so excited when the UPS man arrived today to drop off my special package!

Who, of course, was around at 10pm for me to practice on?!

Oh, my wonderful husband who set up all of the equipment for me!

What would I do without him?! (He is good for a few laughs, at least!)

Dr. VanDenBerg Graduation

2010-06-19T22:52:00.000-07:00

My best friend, Liz, just graduated with her Doctorate of Occupational Therapy, and I was able to make it up to Michigan to help her celebrate this special event! I have seen how hard she has worked through the years for this very moment. I am so proud of you and love you, my sweet friend.

Noah William

2010-06-19T06:03:00.000-07:00

This week I photographed my friend's son Noah. She wanted some pictures as a surprise for her husband for Father's Day.

I love this kid. I have watched him grow since he was a baby and I honestly love him like one of my own! He is one of Cade's best buds and they have a blast running around together. His mama is pretty awesome too - one of my closest friends here in RI!

Happy, happy boy!

Grapes are yummy...

You takin' a picture of me? Why, I know I'm quite handsome!

And a few more of my favorites...

That is one fantastic, happy and good looking kid I tell ya!

Baby Alayna

2010-06-15T23:03:00.000-07:00

Last week, my friend Maria brought her baby girl, Alayna, to our house for me to photograph.

Alayna was born a month early at 36 weeks, and the first time that I met her was in a NICU in Springfield, Mass. It was great to see how much she had grown in a period of four weeks.

What a tiny, beautiful, precious peanut!

It is apparent how much Maria loves her baby girl...

Big sister was there too!

Maria, you definitely have your hands full with three girls, but you have such an incredible and powerful love for them that it is absolutely beautiful. They are all so precious, and I am looking forward to watching all of them grow!

-Danielle

Maziarz Boys

2010-06-12T23:32:00.000-07:00

It had been some time since I had actually made it a point to photograph my own boys - I had become so busy with doing photo shoots for others!

Here are a few of my favorite shots from the day, taken at the gorgeous Colt State Park in Bristol, RI. I am one proud mama.

Jack, nine months

Cade, two and a half

Love my boys!

The Turillo Family

2010-05-28T11:01:00.000-07:00

Today I had the pleasure of shooting my friend Stephanie and her beautiful family.

We met at Roger Williams Park in Providence and enjoyed a nice morning together trying to get some good shots.

Their little boy, Jack, is possibly one of the cutest little guys that I have ever met (you know, aside from my own boys!).

There is no doubt about how much his mama and daddy love him!

What a wonderful morning - perfect weather and all! Thanks for letting me capture you and your beautiful family, Stephanie.

-Danielle

Jack Elias

2010-05-27T19:34:00.000-07:00

Our first post here at Two Sisters!

I would like to wish my beautiful baby boy a very happy nine month birthday. The past nine months of our lives have completely been enriched by this little man.

(Thanks Jack for always being a great model for your mama!)

Brad and Sara

2010-05-20T12:14:00.000-07:00

My sister, Danielle, and I were best friends with Sara through junior high and high school. We took trips together with our families, pulled (many) all-nighters just for the fun of it, and even started a band. (That fell through really quickly... you will never hear our hideous demo!) I can't help but smile when I think back to how much fun we had together... before we became adults and had no worries! I was happy to photograph Sara and Brad for their engagement. They are such a sweet and humorous couple, and I know they are going to make each other so happy for the rest of their lives. I can't wait to be there on their special day!

Baby Cru

2010-03-29T18:12:00.000-07:00

Meet my little man, Cru. I became Cru's nanny just eight weeks after he was born, and he completely stole my heart! Though I am no longer his nanny, he and his family have remained near to my heart and we regularly keep in touch. He is such a hoot and so much fun to photograph!

Kenzie

2010-03-25T13:23:00.000-07:00

Danielle and I went to high school with Kenzie's mom, Cara. When she contacted me about shooting some new photos of Kenzie, I was happy to meet her sweet little girl. We met at a local park on a dreary day, but we managed to capture some sweet moments!

Portfolio

2010-02-26T23:11:00.000-08:00

Stay tuned to this page as we continue to add to our portfolio!

Noah William / 6.17.10 / Young Children

Maziarz Boys / 6.12.10 / Babies & Young Children

Baby Alayna / 6.9.10 / Babies & Families

The Turillo Family / 5.28.10 / Families

Alicia / 5.4.11 / Senior

Tara / 1.11.11 / Portraits

The Long Family / 1.5.11 / Families

Ben and Trisha / 1.2.11 / Engagements

The Sasse Family / 11.17.10 / Families

Cara and Kenzie (take two!) / 11.11.10 / Babies & Families

Erin / 11.6.10 / Portraits

Baby Violet / 10.30.10 / Babies

Come to the Fire (Conference) / 10.3.10 / Events

The Scheele's / 8.22.10 / Families

Dr. VanDenBerg Graduation / 6.20.10 / Graduations

Brad and Sara / 5.20.10 / Engagements

Baby Cru / 3.29.10 / Babies

Kenzie / 3.25.10 / Babies & Young Children

Photoshoot Tips

2010-02-26T22:35:00.000-08:00

-It is best to wear solid colored clothing. For multiple members of a family or group being photographed, wear a like color.

-Avoid strong patterns on shirts (stripes, graphic logos, etc).

-Do not overdo makeup. Apply makeup as you would usually wear on an evening out with friends. Overdoing your makeup (especially shadows and eyeliner) will be too much in photos, especially photos that frame the face.

-Avoid any articles of clothing or jewelry (big, bulky necklaces, primarily) that will take away from the face.

-If we are photographing your precious little babe, we recommend that you feed your baby right before a shoot.

-For babies and young children, make sure they are properly rested. This is possibly the most important tip that we will offer. No baby or toddler wants to be photographed while tired. We would rather photograph a well rested child that comes to the shoot unprepared than an unrested child who comes to a shoot in tip top shape (with hair, clothing, etc). We will set time aside for you to prepare your baby/child. This makes a world of difference for us.

-For toddlers and young children, bring snacks and toys. Snacks are great during little breaks and toys can even make wonderful impromptu props!