JL Walker Photography

When your best friend is the bride....

2013-08-16T20:57:00.000-04:00

I recently had the honor of being the photographer for my best friends wedding. I have to admit it was one of the hardest jobs I have ever taken on. It's not easy to focus and make sure lighting is perfect when you are overcome with pure emotion by the event that is taking place. I always tear up at weddings no matter what, but this wedding was different, I had to put my camera down a couple of times.

Rheanna and I have been friends since we were in grade school, we have shared a million memories. The independent girl that she is, she wanted to make sure everything was perfect before she walked down the isle.....8 years and 3 beautiful babies later she tied the knot with an amazing man and her high school sweetheart. He has always passed the best friend test in my book, and there is no one I would rather see take my best friends hand in marriage. It was the best wedding I have ever been too....just to name a few of the amazing events of the day; the mechanical bull (yes you read that correctly), the bouncy house (no it wasn't just for the kids), free beer and margarita's all night, amazing food, and delicious cake!! All while catching up with old friends and new!

Rheanna wasn't the only one with surprises up her sleeve, her uncle from Arizona surprised everyone by flying in for Rheanna's big day. Love ya Rheanna and Will!!

Mountainside Wellness Hollistic Health Center - Littleton NH {full service counseling and well being center}

2013-04-12T09:53:00.001-04:00

I have to admit I have some incredibly talented friends, and I thought it would be great to do a little bit of bragging about a few of these amazing woman.

I have decided to start posting about some of my favorite business's in the area starting with my dear friend Cyndee Baker, LMT owner of Mountainside Wellness Center - Littleton, NH.

We all know how passionate I am about following our dreams and not just spending our whole lives wishing our lives were different. Cyndee is amazing at following her heart and moving mountains to make her dreams a reality. Mountainside Wellness Center is the physical proof of Cyndee's blood sweat and tears, it is what she has worked so hard to create for years.

Mountainside Wellness is one of my favorite places to sit and just "be", just walking through the front door into the center I feel all my worries just lighten for a little bit. The aesthetics of the center are only the beginning. Cyndee always greets you with her smile and a cup of hot tea. The lighting that comes in to the front room, nicknamed the Yoga room as that is what its main use is, is heavenly. I may be biased as a photographer, but it truly is rare to find an indoor space with light this beautiful.

Cyndee has been pursuing one degree or another for as long as I can remember. She is a very multi talented (and certified) individual. The Mountainside Wellness center provides a wealth of services to nurture the whole-person. The current services offered include full service counseling, yoga classes for most levels and techniques, and a variety of specialized massage techniques.

"Working as a Licensed Massage Therapist since 2004, Cyndee has developed a unique style of combining a variety of therapeutic techniques into each client's confidential, tailor-designed session for their body's specific needs. As a Reiki III practitioner, Cyndee also incorporates the healing benefits of Reiki into every massage session for ultimate healing and stress reduction."

"We take great pride in the treatment we provide which is professional, confidential, and informed by best practices. The services our counselors provide are caring and respectful of the minds and hearts of our clients."

I was honored to take marketing images for Cyndee inside of the center this winter. Mountainside truly has something for everyone and I encourage you to take a moment to visit or make an appointment for a little personal wellness.

Landscapes and Buildings oh my

2013-04-06T17:01:00.000-04:00

I am obsessive about snapping photo's of beautiful surroundings! It is very rare that I do not get a shot of the location that I am shooting at. On a typical photo shoot I will just snap a quick shot and it never see's the light of day, but recently I thought it might be nice to share these images for others to see. The two photo's of the mountain are actual images of Cannon Mountain in Franconia NH. It's easy to drive by these beautiful surroundings everyday and forget how fortunate we are to be surrounded by such spectacular scenery. The white building is the Mt. Washington Hotel and resort in Bretton Woods, NH.

Spring Mini-Photo Sessions

2013-03-25T20:12:00.000-04:00

I'm really excited to get back to work, it's been a long winter of catching up and tying up loose ends. I'm starting the spring off with a new promotion that I haven't offered before, and I'm super excited about it.

I have recently partnered with a new source for canvas prints. The canvas is 10 times better quality AND best of all, more affordable than the source I used in the past. I will now be able to offer canvas to my clients at an affordable price. To bring attention to this new offering I am promoting the canvas prints and including them in my Spring mini-sessions. This is a HUGE deal and an incredible offer that I won't be able to continue forever, it will only last from April 15th - May 30th.

Here are the details

Sessions must be held between April 15th-May 30th
Price includes a 30 minute photo session for up to 4 family members 5-10 images to be viewed in an online gallery and (this is the best part), a 16x20 canvas print of your choice. as well as a 20% discount off of any other print purchases from this session

(print galleries are guaranteed to be available with in two weeks of session or the session is on me!)

My goal this year is to improve my customer service and turn around times. Many of my clients in the last year have had to wait extended periods of time to receive galleries and orders. Unfortunately, I'm only human and everything has a learning curve. I believe that the only way to improve is to be aware of my weakness and work to improve it to the best of my ability. I am not perfect nor do I ever claim to be. What I do claim is to be a kind hearted honest person that tries to be everything to everyone usually to a fault.

I can only try to be better than I was yesterday!

"There is only one corner of the universe you can be certain of improving,
and that's your own self."
--Aldous Huxley

A $50 non-refundable deposit is required to book and hold your date and time. The balance is due at the photo session. A contract and model release must be signed prior to the session.

Nelia turns ONE

2013-03-18T11:21:00.001-04:00

My adorable niece Nelia (knee-lia) turned one last week. She is the happiest little girl I have ever seen. My sister would tell you otherwise, but I'm auntie and I can call her perfect if I want! I cannot even begin to express the joy I have in being an auntie. Don't get me wrong being a mother is amazing on whole different level. Being an auntie means I get too be all fun and cool and I can break all the rules, like no candy for breakfast!! I can give gifts for no reason!
Nelia was born on March 12th, 2012 which happens to not only be my fathers birthday, but his grandmothers birthday also!

My parents were on vacation in Florida and unable to make it to Nelia's big day, but never fear Apple is here!! We all complain a lot about all the technology we have today and how it takes so much away from us, but we were all super thankful for it on Saturday. My parents were able to join the party via facetime. My mother called my iPhone from her iPad via facetime and were able to watch everything from gifts being unwrapped to clean up! They were able to talk to everyone and even get their picture taken as proof they were there. I guess the only thing they really missed was the food and cake!

Happy, happy first birthday Nelia Tishara, you are a beautiful girl and I look forward to many years of spoiling you rotten!!

Do you know who your biggest supporters are?

2013-03-12T17:48:00.001-04:00

Who supports you the most....is it your friends, your family, acquaintances, strangers on the street. Are the people that support you and your choices the people you expected? Who keeps you motivated by giving you positive encouragement and who supports you by sucking the life out of your dreams, therefore giving you every reason to succeed and prove them wrong?

Happy Valentines Day!

2013-02-14T00:24:00.001-05:00

I'm not a huge fan of Valentines day, mostly because I think it causes unnecessary stress. I do in fact love the idea of the day, but I feel like it needs rules or maybe guidelines. The pressure to give a gift that symbolizes your love to another is just too much. My favorite valentines are the small personal gifts or thoughtful notes. I am giving all of you (readers, clients, friends, family) a personal Valentines message.

You are the heart and soul of my business. It is because of you that I am able to do what I do. Not a single day passes that I do not think about this simple truth. You give me grace and guidance to create memories for your family. I take your trust in me very seriously, sometimes to a fault. I hope you all have a wonderful day and know that you have at least one person that appreciates you even when you might feel alone.

2013-02-10T13:40:00.001-05:00

A few of 2012 favorites

2013-01-06T17:07:00.001-05:00

Winter Wonderland

2013-01-05T20:23:00.001-05:00

Well, things are changing! It's time to freshen up and spend a little more time here! I've fallen out of love with Facebook and decided I'd rather share my work and life in my own space. Not to say I won't remain on Facebook, I just won't be contributing much. It's important to me to stay in touch with those that appreciate my work and what I have to provide as a service, so I will do that here and I will commit to being present here as well! I recently added blogger to my iPhone which will make this resolution to stay current much easier. I am sharing a few iPhone photos from today's sliding adventure.

{Harmony ~ Organization ~ Peace ~ Enlightenment}: ~ Twas the Night Before...the Night Before... ~

2012-12-24T20:44:00.001-05:00

{Harmony ~ Organization ~ Peace ~ Enlightenment}: ~ Twas the Night Before...the Night Before... ~
I once again will point you toward my dear friend Kristen and her inspiring words of wisdom. It's really simple, family is everything. Thank your lucky stars for them all, they are the ones that will hold you up when you cannot stand. Thank you K3 for always reminding me to "keep it real"
Love to all this Christmas Eve.

Holiday Cards

2012-12-05T19:29:00.001-05:00

In the past I have held holiday mini-sessions in November and December unfortunately I just haven't had the time to add the promotion this year. I decided that with all of the commitments I have right now I wouldn't be able to give these sessions the special touches that make them so great.

However, I have decided to offer my clients the chance to place holiday card orders using the images from past sessions. Below is the digital catalog with the card options I have available. Please note I will not be offering new photo sessions for this offer. Any sessions scheduled after December 1st will not be ready for Christmas. Card orders will be accepted until December 18th at noon.

Prices vary according to number of cards and specific styles. Pricing begins at $50 for 25 cards. This includes my time and the use of images. Due to copyright laws I can only offer this service to JL Walker Photography clients using only JL Walker Photography images.

If you are interested in this offer please send me an email at the address on the top of the page.

Happy Holidays!

Open publication - Free publishing - More christmas

Holiday Gift Idea's - Blurb Discount

2012-11-13T17:14:00.003-05:00

It's that time of year.....for giving, for receiving, for making memories and revisting old memories.

I started a tradition on my boys first Christmas, each year I put together a photo book that includes images from the entire year. It's a great way for me to get the digital images I have stored on my computer into a printed version. I LOVE revisiting these books from time to time. The first one I made was simply a gift for the family and it has turned into so much more for us. I have used several sites to create the family yearbook, but my favorite site is BLURB. This site is my favorite mostly because it allows me the most creative freedom, but also the pricing is super AND I can list the book online for friends and family that would like to purchase there own copy. It turns out to be a hit every year!

I really love the newest addition to Blurb that allows me to make photo books from my instagram images! It's so easy!!

Here is the cover of our Summer 2011 Instagram book.

And here is a quick shot of my work in progress.....
The best part about Blurb is it's easy to use!!

USE CODE: FALLTHANKS to receive 15% off your very own book!!

Give a personal gift this holiday with Blurb’s Custom Planners and Photo Books. Make a date with your creative side and make the perfect gift for family and friends or even yourself!

Our beautifully designed photo book and weekly planner templates allow you to create a professional–looking, yet personal, gift for yourself or family, friends, co-workers, and clients. Give them a gift that they will love! Get started on your Blurb Custom Photo Book or Planner now!

Organized, I am NOT!

2012-10-15T09:23:00.002-04:00

Today's post is a shout out to a dear friend and Silpada sister Kristen at Organize for Harmony. Kristen is an incredible woman that I'm proud to call my friend. She has great ideas and tips for anyone in need of organization help! I intend on implementing as many of her suggestions into my life as I can. I truly wish I was better organized, I know it would help ease a lot of anxiety. Perhaps I should make that a New Years resolution. Yes, I said it....it will be here sooner than you think. Which brings me to my next subject; Christmas Family sessions. I will be scheduling a limited number on weekends only this year (in an attempt to stay organized and efficient) I will post dates and times soon, but as much as you do not want to think about it, YOU MUST begin to think about fitting it into your schedule so we can fit it into mine! Thank you in advance for helping me begin to organize my life and create a sense of H.O.P.E in my life.

Check out Kristen's blog and leave her a comment, but tell her I sent you! Come back here and tell me what H.O.P.E means and I will send you a surprise. GO NOW, first comment is the winner.

Summer and Fall 2012 - {NH Photographer}

2012-10-10T09:52:00.000-04:00

Ok, its clearly time for a new post! I don't have a whole lot to say....I've been super busy this fall with both JL Walker Photography as well as my Silpada Designs business. I truly love the way both business's balance me and I look forward to a successful future with both. I will leave you with few words, and lot's of images!

Class of 2013 Seniors

2012-07-04T15:00:00.003-04:00

Yes, you are now officially seniors and it really is time to start Senior Portraits!! Deadlines are typically mid October for year book photo's, this means you must have your senior sessions completed by the end of September. Please contact me for Senior package pricing!

Congratulations to the all of members of the Senior class of 2012

Profile High School - Littleton High School - WMRHS

Back to life...

2012-05-16T12:29:00.001-04:00

Anybody out there....

2012-01-20T19:55:00.001-05:00

I really am still in business and thriving....so much that I haven't been able to tend to my poor blog! I refuse to let it go though. I will try to be better at keeping current....
2011 was an amazing year, full of many blessings and lessons all lessons were very worth the learning but some much harder to swallow than others. Thus, there will be some "tweaks" to how I do some things going forward, but I will not be changing my values so please know that anything that is changed is simply due to running a business.

So, I'm BACK now! I have a TON of stuff to share and some new and exciting events coming up, the first one starting with Valentines day!

I will be partnering with Cyndee Baker, LMT and owner of Mountainside Wellness Center on some really fun events. Our first event is VALENTINES DAY 2012! Below are the details as well as the link to her site with much, much more!

JUST NOT THAT INTO VALENTINES DAY but would like a photo session??

...that's ok, we have you covered also.

Anyone that books a photo session BEFORE February 14th
will receive a 15% discount on print orders
with your pre-paid session fee.

Sessions must be completed by March 31st 2012

Please send an email inquiry for pricing and available dates.

Offer is not valid on previous sessions.

Summer 2011 Past, Present and Future of JL Walker Photgraphy in Bethlehem NH

2011-08-13T09:49:00.000-04:00

PAST:
I am so sad that I have entirely neglected this blog for over a month. My plans were big for this space (and still are) but, I have been very busy this summer! Family sessions, anniversary sessions, children, seniors etc. It has truly been a wonderful summer that is ending far too soon! I am very happy to say I have been so busy! When the season began I was unsure about where I would fit in or how well I would do. I am happy to say it has been incredible thanks to so many wonderful people that have supported me and referred me to others, you have made my business adventure awesome!

PRESENT:
Currently it is the 2012 Senior class season. I have had a couple of gorgeous girls from LHS already and several others that have booked an upcoming session. I am booking up quickly for September and the end of August. Please, please take the time to get something on the calendar so we don't miss the early October cut off for year book photo's. Seniors from Profile, Littleton, Lisbon, White Mountain Regional...book soon!

FUTURE:
The season for fall family sessions and (yes I'm going to say it) Christmas cards is coming up faster than any of us would like to admit, but time stands still for no one. SO, if you are interested in a family session to be used for Christmas cards, please contact me to set something up or at least get it on the books so you don't miss out.

In closing a huge thank you to every single person that has supported me and my dream. YOU GUYS ROCK! My gratitude is immeasurable!

My latest Senior ~ class of 2012 Megan L.

The T family at the Mt. Washington Hotel

2011-06-25T23:49:00.000-04:00

I had a great night at the Mt. Washington Hotel in Bretton Woods, NH tonight. This incredible family is celebrating their parents 50th wedding anniversary and asked if I would take a family photo of everyone (20 people in all). The day started out dreary and drizzly, but just before picture time the sun came out just enough to make beautiful lighting. More to come with this group, but I just had to share a quick shot.

A wedding sneak peek for Mr. and Mrs. Brown {NH Wedding Photographer}

2011-06-24T23:29:00.001-04:00

What to expect during a photo session with JL Walker Photography {NH Family Portrait Photographer}

2011-06-21T23:17:00.002-04:00

I know it is often very nerve racking to even think about posing in front of a camera, never mind adding in the whole family. I have created a small list of things that you can expect when you schedule your session with me:

Relaxed: I am honored to have been chosen by you and I am entirely yours for the duration of the session. My sessions are run by you, I can take as much time or as little time as necessary. Sometimes, I get dad's that just have that "look" when we begin, where the only the thing they want to be doing is...well...anything but have their photo taken...in these cases I will do my best to move along as quickly as possible. Other times small children take some time warming up and are more interested in a rock or worm or sometimes mom's pant leg than they are smiling for some crazy lady (that's me) with a camera. Either way, I let you set the pace.
Flexible: My sessions are not meant to make anyone stressed out I want to make this work for you no matter what. My first priority is to make your photo session something you do not have to worry about. If we have to start later because you forgot Suzy had a ball game and is in her uniform still, than so be it. I will also do my very best to accommodate your session dates and times.
Fun: I do not want anyone leaving a session with me unhappy. If nothing else I will make crazy faces and squat down low to get the perfect shot....I'm telling you, you can't help but laugh!
Guaranteed:My promise to you is that if you are not happy with your session than I will work with you to figure out a solution. I want to guarantee that you will say, "wow, I'm so glad I chose you"

I'm starting to fill up my summer session's so if you haven't booked yet, please contact me to set up your appointment. July is almost entirely full!

Seniors, it is the perfect time to take portraits. Now that graduation is over you are officially seniors! Call me - email me - facebook - text ...just make your appointments soon!

If anyone is looking for rates or other information please contact me or visit my website JL Walker Photography

HAPPY SUMMER!!

Dancing in the rain... {NH Family Photographer}

2011-06-14T22:30:00.001-04:00

This little girl can brighten the rainiest day and it's a good thing because we shot in the rain and she was a super sport...and might I add only 3!! Those are her "boys" in the back, Oscar and King, in case anyone was wondering!

Father's Day Promotion from Tiny Prints and what's happening on the blog...

2011-06-11T21:43:00.000-04:00

Father's day is coming up very soon (next Sunday for anyone that isn't sure)! Below is a great offer to help you out if you haven't figured out how you are going to fit in a trip to the greeting card store and the Post office, between the graduation ceremonies and awards banquets and everything else you most likely have going on as the school year winds down.....Tiny Prints is offering to help you out with one free Father's Day Card just use code (FREEFD) at check out, but you have to hurry because the offer expires on Monday 6/13.

So, here is the scoop.....

I am beginning to do some affiliate partnering with other websites and blogs. I'm sure you have noticed new banners popping up on this site. I hope to only partner with websites that have a natural affinity with my site. I want to give my readers and photography clients access to sources that I trust and use regularly. In doing this I will have access to select promotions offered by my affiliates. Be sure to check the site often for new sources and any promotions they may be running. I will also occasionally promote an item or source that I love and just think others would want to know about.

I will do my best to promote only items and promotions that I have used or know of someone that has used. Of course if you have questions or need assistance, please feel free to email me here. If I don't know the answer I will do my best to find it for you.

I'm very excited about my newest partnership with Tiny Prints a fabulous source for photo announcements, invitations, cards & stationary and their sister company The Wedding Paper Diva's who offer everything you need for the big day!

I can't post without a photo, and who can resist this doll!! 

We will see more of her soon!

PS I apologize to anyone that does not like that this post is promotional, but I'm really trying to give my readers and clients helpful resources that many people do not have the time to seek out on their own. I know this because I was that person not to long ago. I also feel I should let everyone know that these promotions do help support my business by paying me a small percentage of any sales they receive because of me. Hopefully you will find these offers useful thus making a win - win situation for all of us!

Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. (I really would like to know what you think) Even if you think I'm posting too much or what you would like to know more about.

Thank you as always for reading this far and supporting me in this phase of my adventure!

Something to think about...

2011-06-09T21:59:00.000-04:00

My post tonight has been weighing on my mind for sometime now. I would love to know your thoughts...
Do you know people "like me" or are YOU "like me"?

Of course I will share some photo's because this is still a Photography Blog!! There is nothing as sweet as a baby girl in a field of dandelions!

I'm not perfect, I know this could be surprising to many, but it's true. No, really I'm not perfect and I don't think that I am. The thing is, I'm probably my own worst critic. I tend to be harder on myself than even my worst enemy. I bring this up because it seems that so many people have this incessant need to point out other people's flaws and imperfections, in order to boost their own wilting ego's. For so many years I consciously but quietly allowed people in my life to minimize my strengths so as not to make them feel insecure or uneasy about themselves. I down played my success's and accomplishments in order to make everyone comfortable, in hopes that these same people would perhaps have the same courtesy when the rolls were reversed.

It's mind boggling to me that people are so completely inconsiderate of other human beings. I see this so much in the photography world. There are entire blogs dedicated to "the professional photographer vs. the wannabe photographer" and why consumers should be-ware of the "wanna be" and justifying their own business decisions by minimizing the choices that others make.

I for one am thankful for each and every client that chooses me to capture their families memories. I am in no way better than anyone else in this industry, but what I can say for sure is that I work very hard to make sure I am learning something new every single day. That I am using every resource that I can possibly get my hands on to enhance my ability to capture images in new and creative ways. Learning to use light and learning to say, "no I can't do that" or "I would love to try that, but know I have never done this before" because I know my limitations.

I know my limitations not only in the photography industry but as a mother and a wife and a human being. I know, I don't know everything. I know I have allowed people to think certain "things" about me, but at the end of the day - I wouldn't be where I am today or have accomplished what I have today if I "wasn't paying attention". It's important to know that just because people don't always stand up for themselves in a specific manner or present a certain kind of confidence, you know the kind that is often confused with arrogance, does not mean they are faking what they know, but more likely faking what you think they don't know.

I realize this post may seem a little off topic, but this is my blog and I get to talk about whatever I want!!

Besides, what I'm speaking of really is an important lesson for many. A lesson that I not too long ago witnessed in the corporate world. Some personality traits will never change not even with age and implied maturity. It's important for some to recognize people like me. It is also important for people "like me" to know; sometimes there are people in this world that you think respect and understand you, but the bottom line is everyone isn't always looking out for your best interest. My advice to all, if you feel like you have to stifle your success or knowledge to save someone elses feelings, they probably don't deserve the consideration you are giving them. ....and if you read this and don't understand a word I'm saying....you are probably someone who thinks they know it all....aren't you?!