We are having a silent auction to help raise funds for our cause  “Help Us, Help Africa” which will provide trauma counseling for abandoned street children who have been rescued by the Challenge Farm. For a recap on what this mission is about, please check out my blog: Glue Kids

I’m really excited about this auction and I need everyone’s help to make it a success. Local businesses in Cumming GA  and friends have donated funds and time to make this night exciting and rewarding.  If you attend this event your probably going to walk away with a amazing item way below the retail value and your sure to have a good time . Event such as a signed electric guitar by the Jonas brothers band will be going to the highest bidder.  If you know someone who may be interested in attending please email me so I can send and evite.

Live music will be played by Matt Dale.

Here is a list of some of the  items that will be auctioned  at this event:

1. Canon Gate golf pass for 4 players at any Canon Gate course
2. Bouquet of flowers(from Lauren Florals)
3. Two Windermere Wine Dinner tickets
4. A Wooden Wine box with 6 different wines (2007 Kendall Jackson ‘Jess Jackson’ Cabernet Knights Valley, 2006 Lassegue Grand Cru, St. Emilion, 2009 La Crema Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, 2009 Byron Chardonnay, Santa Barbara, 2007 Cambria Chardonnay, Santa Barbara, 2008 Benvolio Pinot Grigio, Friuli.)
5. Two in home 50 minute full body relaxation massage by Teresa Sims LMT
6. A 60 minute custom facial includes deep cleansing, ultrasonic exfoliation and mask (www.susansskincarestudio.com)
7. A Jonas Brothers Guitar and authentication letter signed by all the Jonas Brothers
8. Two Atlanta Falcons football tickets

The auction will be on February 16th from 7 to 9 pm at the Windermere Clubhouse. Windermere has graciously agreed to provide the location wine and  h’orderves. Instead of charging a fee we will have a donation bucket and are hoping on collecting $20 per person for this event. This would be a fun couples night out to hobnob with me and my friends and make a difference to the organization  …Help Us, Help Africa!!

If you can’t attend and still want to make a difference  feel free pledge $20 by clicking on the donate button below. If you would like to donate a large amount and need a tax deductible receipt please email me @ karen@nickelweddings.com.

Rehash of the detail is listed below:

What: Wine, horderves, auction, make a difference
Date: February 16th
Time: 7-9pm
Location: Windermere Clubhouse
5000 Davis Love Drive, Cumming, GA 30041

Can’t attend: If you can’t make it February 16th, $20 would make a huge difference!

*For more information on the ‘Glue Kids’, please go to: http://www.challenge-kenya.org/

I come from a long line of people who have cared greatly for people in Africa and other poor countries in the world…so much so that some of them gave over 60 years to living in a culture that wasn’t their own just so someone else could have a better life.  That seems so admirable and strange all at the same time.

Until last October I found myself in a strange dichotomy between carrying the same passion and desire to help people in Africa just like my family and being a busy 21^st Century person who is somewhat naive and numb to the world’s injustices.  Of course that is until the day I interviewed a new photographer, Marisa (Banas) Rodriguez, who had an interesting life story.  Before moving to the Atlanta area she spent a year overseas working with mission groups and aid organizations all over the world that address justice issues.  She told me several stories, but the one that made her eyes light up was the one about the “Glue Kids” of Kenya.  She told me that 5-year olds and 13 year olds were orphaned and living in dumps.  Their entire provision came from the trash…food, clothing and their prize possessions…old whisky bottles that they use to put shoe glue in so they can sniff the fumes. They sniff the glue so they won’t feel the pains from their hunger and the devastation of being abandoned at such a young age by their parents.   Her facts were mind-boggling!  How could a 5-year old fend for himself?

To my utter surprise at the end of the interview Marisa said, “I am going again this year to work on a project, would you like to come with me.”  How do you answer a question like that?  Most people would reply with an obvious “No!”, but there was something about these children and the history of my family that encouraged me to shout out a whopping and surprising,  “Yes!”

A few months later, I received an email from her that completely penetrated any shred of numbness that I had towards social injustices.  She shared a link to a British news broadcast that investigated these Glue Kids.  I was shocked to learn that she went to the exact dump site where the footage was filmed and she worked directly with the children that you will see in the video.  She was actually able to pull one of the boys out of the dump and bring him to a children’s home called the Challenge Farm.  http://www.challenge-kenya.org/

Now, I am not a crier…at all…but the mother in me couldn’t help myself.  I want to give you a little warning that there are things in this video that are hard to see and it is probably not best for small children to watch.

When Marisa told me that she held that little girl whose mama gave her glue to sniff, everything within me wanted to be there to help these children in anyway I could.  Thankfully, I have been given an opportunity that is very dear to my heart.  On March 31^st-April 11^th, I will travel with a team to Kitale, Africa where I will help create a media package that will help bring funding to Challenge Farm projects.  Marisa will take me to the streets to meet these children and tell their stories through my lens. Then, we are going to go to the Challenge Farm where 100 X-street kids call home.  I have been told that the atmosphere is much different there.  The children go to school every day, eat healthy meals and receive life-skills and tons and tons of love.  They have asked me to take unique photos of the children that help people see their true personality and redemption.

I am thrilled at the opportunity and so excited to let you be a bug on the wall as I take this journey.   My responsibilities on this trip are actually a part of a much larger picture.  Marisa and her team will be traveling to Kitale to meet with dignitaries and Challenge Farm supporters to complete a grant proposal that they are working on that will fund computers and trade skills equipment for their government school.  Separate from this, they are also fund-raising for a counseling project where they will raise $30,000 to fund a 5-year initiative that will provide certified counselors to help the children overcome abandonment, rape, physical abuse and other horrific things they experienced.  They hope to have all the funds in before we leave.

It is time that I push myself out of my comfort zone and do what I can to bring some good to the world.  I am only one person, but I will do what I can to use my gifts to tell these children’s stories and get the word out.  If you would like to be a part of this…guess what…you can!  I need $2,500 to cover my costs, and any extra funds will go directly towards the children and the counseling project.  If you would like to give you can do so one of three ways:

To give a tax-deductible donation:

We will process my funds through Marisa’s 501c3 account at Adventures In Missions.  It’s a little bit funky, but in order to get you a tax-receipt we will need you to put her name on the donation.  But no worries…your funds will go towards my trip.  Here are the directions:

If you want to pay online via credit card:

-Go to  www.marisabanas.theworldrace.org

-Click on the link, “Give Support” on the left column.

- Select “Staff Support.”

-Again, make sure to leave Marisa Banas in the participant section.

If you would like to mail in a check:

-Make check out to Adventures In Missions

-Write ‘Marisa Banas’ in the memo line. **Very important!

-Mail check to:

Adventures In Missions

P.O. Box 534470
Atlanta, GA 30353-4470

If you do not need a tax-deduction credit:

-Write a check to Karen Nickel

-Mail check to:

5968 Bond Street

Cumming, GA 30040

It had been raining for three days here in GA and the weather had been very unpredictable, however, the morning of Les and Cindy’s wedding, at 9am, the sun peeked out. And, it did not leave us the whole day Though it was sunny, the winds were strong and the air was frigid. Sorry this is taking me so long, but I don’t want to miss anything. That week I had scouted out where I wanted to do the pictures because they were not having a traditional wedding. They wanted something fun, laid back, and different, so that is what I gave them! The location we decided on was an old abandoned house, that was surrounded by huge trees, and a beautiful pasture. When I first saw it, I knew this was the place. I couldn’t stop talking about it (no, seriously, ask my Honey-Guy) and you will see why. We had two full hours to spend with Les and Cindy and a very small(10 people) ceremony to follow at the Marina in Cumming GA.

Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful story with me and allowing me to see your true selves. You have a remarkable connection and a wonderful family….blessings.

Okay, onto the photo shoot. Being that we planned the photo shoot for the beginning of February, we were not sure what to expect on the weather, especially in GA (it has been so unpredictable lately). We got to our location and the snow started to come down. When I say come down, I am not kidding, they were the biggest snow flakes I have ever seen!
Rebecca and I both looked at each other and said, “let’s go for it”. Rebecca was great! We had a blast out in the snow. She had flowers (www.funkymountain.com) to use for the shoot too, which were so beautiful!
If you ever want to shoot in the snow and get crazy, just give me a call. We will make it happen! 678.773.2562

Yesterday was the day! I got my notes together (yes, I know, kinda silly), gathered some of the magazines I have work in, updated my online work, and headed off to West High to talk about photography and business. When I arrived, I was informed that the amount of kids (maybe 35, so I thought)was now going to double,  because two classes wanted to join us. In my head, I am now thinking, can I do this…that’s a lot of kids….maybe we can sit in a circle (less like I’m the center of attention), etc. You get the picture, I was a little flustered. The time came, and went, and all went well. I even spoke the whole hour and a half, which in the beginning, I thought there would be no way. All that to say, I have updated my online portfolio to share with all my amazing followers (yes, you). Please check it out. I’d love to hear your feedback.

I challenge you to step out of your comfort zone, even if it is a bit scary or intimidating in the beginning. It is well worth it! You will learn a lot about yourself and can make a difference in the process!

If you are interested, book now by calling Karen Nickel @ 678.773.2562 or email me at karen@nickelweddings.com. I look forward to hearing from you!

The most thoughtful (well, in my opinion) gift you can give your sweetheart for Valentine’s Day,  is the gift of  time.  I know all of you guys (and women) out there are wondering what would be the best gift to give your ‘love’. I know it seems a bit early, but, early is smart!

Do you want something that will stand out from all the other gifts you have given? Well, this is the year to outdo yourself.  Make it a memorable 2011! What I’m talking about is an experience. An experience that you can both share together that will be remembered always. We call it a ‘Beloved’ session. This is not any typical photo session. This is a time that is planned out in advance and discussed in detail which will give you both an experience you will not soon forget. The ‘Beloved’ session will be a fun session for couples (which includes dating couples, engaged couples, newlyweds, and couples that have been married for many years). This means if you have children, a babysitter is a must-have! We want you and your beloved to focus on one another and be able to capture you in that moment. I think you know what I am talking about. I know, because I have children too, and when they are around, we as parents feel the need to keep our eyes on them (as we should).

For those out there that would rather give yourself the  ’Beloved’ session and present the images to your significant other we can schedule and discuss this great option as well.  Either way your ‘Beloved’ will be one very happy person.

Kid’s Photography at it’s Best

Children are so much fun to photograph, especially when they are in their own little worlds, and could care less that someone is staring at them. I had the pleasure of watching these three siblings play around and do what kids do best, pretend. Meet the Hoehn family, kid’s photography at it’s best!

First of all, let’s rewind just a little bit. I was contacted by Ryan, the father of these three, and he wanted to have a photo session for his children, so he could give it as a gift to his wife (Katie) for Christmas. I know, super thoughtful, right?!  I was blown away by his thoughtfulness!  How do you do that, you ask. Well, I will tell you. While his wife was out of town with some friends for the weekend, Ryan decided it was the best time to pull this off. I will have to say, Ryan came very prepared. He had at least 2-3 outfits for each of the kids, a big toy car, a blanket, some toys that each child would enjoy, and a lot of energy.  During the portrait session, Ryan was texting back and forth with his wives friend, to make sure she would not get suspicious of him (Ryan) not being home when she pulled in the driveway. He was very successful in doing just that, and surprised Katie with all the images framed (in re-done vintage style frames that Ryan himself had finished). On Christmas morning Katie woke up to a house full of  frames images of her three babies (that makes me smile).

The first image you see, where all of the kids are smiling, well, Ryan was behind me, being a Dad, making funny faces and being silly. Props to Ryan!

Here are a few of my favorites. Enjoy!

To experience Kid’s Photography at it’s best, please contact Karen Nickel Photography at 678.773.2562.

The day they got married was a windy brisk day, but they both graciously faced the chilly weather, along with their wedding party and we all had a blast together!

Please contact Karen Nickel if you have a wedding coming up. karen@nickelweddings.com or 678.773.2562

It happens all the time, no you’re not alone and no you don’t need a support group.

We’re available (hopefully!) and now, we can put a quote and contract together for you to look at online. Along with your electronic signatures and quote approval, you pay a retainer payment equal to half of the total quoted. After receipt of your check or online payment, you are officially booked! The next step is to set a date for your engagement shoot.

Best dang wedding photographer expectation

For Nickel Weddings, most of our couples chose to see each other before the wedding ceremony, which in my opinion,  is the best way to go. Let me tell you why… seeing each other before the wedding allows us to the time to get those vogue-chic-posh shots you’ve been drooling over. The more time you give us the more amazing your wedding photos become. The key we have learned is dedicated time = capture the most amazing and artistic images this side of Juniper. If the couple is rushed between the wedding and the reception they don’t have the time to relax and just be.

Wedding photographer realism

All brides and grooms need to be prepared to set time aside for those kick-ass photos. More times than not, things get moved around a little on the day of the wedding so a big buffer slot gives you wiggle room. Sometimes getting dressed takes a bit longer or Aunt Mable is running late,  the best man left the rings 15 miles away, est..If you are ready for these shifts, than you will be fine. Going with the flow of things, makes for a much smoother day, and the more relaxed the couple the better the shots.

Typical wedding photo schedule:

Pre-Ceremony…(pre-ceremony and wedding ceremony shots are the MOST important images of the day)

1) Make sure you have looked over the ‘wedding day outline’ so you are aware of what time you need to be ready for pictures.

2) Have all your details (rings, shoes, dress, any sentimental items you would like photographed) in one area ready,  so when your photographers arrive, they can get started. It may be several hours before the ceremony. Detail shots, typically take 1 hour.

3) Getting your wedding dress on,  is next! Be sure to allow at least 30-45 minutes for this,  just in case you need to reapply your lipstick/gloss or do any last minute preparations (If you have asked the photographers to join you for make-up and hair, that would most likely happen prior to the detail shots, but for this step-by-step, let’s just say you didn’t). At this time, the second photographer can go get a few shots of the guys getting ready, as well.

4) The most exciting part of the day for ‘the photographers’ (me) is the first meeting of the bride and groom….couples session!!! This will last between 1 to 2 hours.

5) Next is the ‘wedding party shots’. Usually lasting an hour or so. If the bride and groom have chosen to get family pictures done prior to the wedding, this is the time to do it (30 minutes or so). Let your bridal party and family members know IN ADVANCE that formal pictures will be taken immediately after the ceremony, if it is not done before.

6) Now it’s time for the bride and groom to go freshen up, 30-45 minutes before the wedding ceremony. This is to make sure NO one sees the couple before the wedding. During this time one photographer will get detail shots of the ceremony area and the other will stay with the bride.

7) The wedding ceremony…time to get hitched!!!!

Directly after the ceremony the bride, groom, and family will meet at an already chosen location for family pictures (30-45 minutes if not taken before the ceremony). At this time, usually there is a cocktail hour or something to keep your guests happy.

9) Party Time!!!! That’s right The bride and the groom are announced as Mr. and Mrs. “Smith”.

10) Dinner (maybe-at this time the photographers will sit down for dinner too, possibly in another room, but dinner should be provided by the couple), Cake cutting ( a time I look forward to too, I love cake ), first ‘bride and groom’ dance, father daughter dance, mother son dance, open dance floor for a time, personal toasts, and the finally…the bride and groom exit off to their honeymoon, or at least a hotel

So that’s a wedding day, from beginning to end. If you have more questions, please make sure to ask your photographers or if you want to talk to me…give me a call, I’d love to talk with you.

I want to be your wedding photographer and have future brides mumble “off the hizzle”!!

Here’s a sneak peek of another one of my amazing couples, Josh and Lee Anne. You would never know it by looking at their images, but these two were not very fond of being the center of attention and having two photographers follow them around all day. We took our time, allowing Josh and Lee Anne  to relax and enjoy each other, while we captured their beautiful day. I hope you are mumbling to yourself, “these images are off the hook!”