Michelle Peterson Photography Blog

Spring mini-sessions

2012-02-25T11:08:00.001-08:00

It's that time of year again....and one of my favorites.

Everything is so clean and crisp, birds chirping, flowers blooming and gorgeous weather. Oh, it makes me so happy!

I'm excited to announce that Spring mini-sessions are here.

So here are the details...

When: March 30th- April 27th

Where: One of my favorite spots in Redlands, Ca

Cost: You have a few options...

Option A: $150~ 30 minute session, up to 5 people, 10 fully edited images on a CD with full reprint rights, 10% off additional prints and images

Option B: $200~ 45 minute session, 15 fully edited images on a CD with full reprint rights, 10% off additional prints and images

Option C: $100~ A full session (1-2 hours), up to 5 people, (2) 8x10 prints and 10% off your order ($150 min. order required)

**Payment due in full at time of booking**

These sessions will fill up fast.

Email me at michelle@michellepetersonphotography.com to reserve your spot today and with any questions you have.

Here are just a few images from our Spring mini-session location...

Looking forward to capturing some memories for you!!

For the Love of Photography Workshop {relaunch}

2012-02-12T23:27:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago I announced that I was teaming up with Erin of Captured by Erin Photography for our very first workshop. We are so excited! This workshop is going to be filled with so much good stuff. It was actually a workshop very similar to this one that took both of us to a whole new level in our photography and an understanding of it.

We had a great response to the launch, but we know there are still some questions out there. Mainly...who exactly is this workshop for and what are we going to learn??

This workshop is for anyone!!! The mom, the dad, the hobbyist, the growing photographer, the dreamer, the student, the parent, the friend. It is for anyone who loves to take pictures and wants to get more out of them.

This is a beginner workshop. We are going to learn how to use your DSLR camera better and what all those buttons and gadgets do. ISO, aperture and shutter speed...lets stop shooting in auto. We will learn lighting, exposure, composition and SO much more. We will also have a live shoot where you will get to use your new skills and knowledge. For those wanting more, stay for our full class and see what we do with our images after the shoot. Get some basic photoshop tips and tricks and ask us anything you want. You ask...we tell!!

We are very excited for this workshop and hope that you can join us. It is going to be filled with so much information and of course lots of fun. Our goal and hope is that you will leave feeling confident and inspired. There is nothing quite like being with a group of people that share the same passion and fuel each others fire!!

life looks good on her

2012-02-08T11:49:00.000-08:00

I've known Michelle since high school. And thanks to the wonderful world of modern technology we have been able to keep in touch. I was able to feel like I was along for the ride when she found out she was expecting and again when she and Joe welcomed little Dillon into this world.

They came home for a visit and I was so honored that I was one of the stops on the trip. This really is one of the sweetest families to be around. Their love is contagious!

Michelle was always a beautiful and sweet girl, but she was different now. Joe is such a perfect fit for her. And Dillon was a perfect fit for both of them.

After I got home from our time together I couldn't stop thinking about them. I picked up the phone and sent her a text..."married life and motherhood look great on you!" And it does!!!

Thank you so much for sharing your love and time with me. And for trusting me to capture some precious memories for you!

xoxo

This next one cracks me up...such a face Dillon.

Aw, young love

2012-02-02T11:07:00.000-08:00

They are young.

They are adorable.

They are fun.

They are in love.

And they are getting married.

And I am so excited to be a part of it!

Heather and Immanuel I just adore you...can't wait for your April wedding.

xoxo

we're having a baby

2012-01-24T13:10:00.000-08:00

As in we are adding a new addition to the family.

And as in I am going to be an Auntie again very soon.

Nothing was going to keep us from this photo shoot.

Not a little rain.

Not a little cold.

And I am so glad!

Andy and Nikki we are so excited and happy for you and can't wait to welcome the newest Peterson to the family very soon.

xoxo

win a free mini-session with me

2012-01-23T10:33:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since we've had a giveaway... I think it's about that time!!

I really do have the best clients and have been so blessed to be able to do what I love and call it a "job."

So I want to give back.

Win a free mini-session!!

Here are the details...

1. Contest will run from Saturday, January 28th, 2012 through Sunday, February 5th, 2012 until 8pm.

2. To enter choose your favorite photo (this can be of your kids, family, whatever really). Just as long as it's yours.

3. Email your photo to me along with your name to michelle@michellepetersonphotography.com with the subject being Photo Contest.

4. All photos will be added to an album on my facebook page where voting will take place. The photo with the most "likes" wins. It's that easy. To vote and for votes to count you will need to "like" or have already "liked" Michelle Peterson Photography on facebook.

Winner will be announced on Monday, February 6th, 2012.

The fine details...

***This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with facebook. Participants are providing information to Michelle Peterson Photography and not facebook. By entering the contest you are agreeing to these terms and conditions. No purchase is necessary. The total prize package is worth $200, but holds no cash value. Session includes a 45 minute session, up to 5 people and 15 images on CD. Must take place locally of Michelle Peterson Photography or travel fees may apply. Must redeem between 2-11-2012 and 9-29-2012. Can not be used on already booked sessions.***

Good luck!!!

for the love of photography: a workshop

2012-01-16T08:43:00.000-08:00

**Workshop will take place at Erin's home in Beaumont, Ca. A conformation will be sent to you within 24 hrs of you registering along with the address and all the fun details for the workshop.**

Hope to see you there...it's gonna be good!!!!

oh the sweetness

2012-01-12T23:24:00.001-08:00

This little guy was as sweet as could be at just a few days old. All he wanted to do was sleep...and who could blame him!

A big thank you to the amazing Julie Rollins for showing me how the magic is made!! ;)

I know how you feel {my family session}

2012-01-09T00:13:00.000-08:00

A few months ago my own family had our photos taken. I was so excited! It had been a little over a year and a half since our last family photos, I know...gasp, but my kids were just at ages where they wouldn't even look at the camera. Maybe cause they were sick of mine. ;)

So the planning began. Much talking, texting and messaging between me and my incredibly talented friend and fellow photographer Mandy Lowe. She lives in Texas and was going to be out for a visit so I begged her to fit us in...so glad she did. So location is set and photographer is set. Now to find outfits, well all my original thoughts went out the window and I was getting the final touches a day before the session. Yea, not what I planned on!

The day of our session my son hates his shirt because it's a button up and doesn't have a cartoon character on in. My daughter who NEVER gets sick is sick. As in...I don't want to get out of bed, move, get dressed, I'm not walking or brush anything sick. ;( Poor thing!!

We get ready and head out. All I need is just one family photo I tell Mandy and my grumpy kids. I thought we were doomed when Chloe wouldn't let daddy put her down, but that quickly changed. She began to perk up and my sweet girl shined through. She may not have worn her shoes, custom made hair band or accessories, but she was happy and herself. Can't ask for anymore than that.

So when I say that "I know how you feel"...believe me, I do!! And although it didn't go the way I planned in my head, it was beyond perfect. Our family was captured as we really are and those moments are captured forever to enjoy. I will forever have my kids frozen at this very special time in their lives.

I know what it feels like to anticipate my photo session, wait for the preview, anticipate the package in the mail and cry viewing the images with my family.

To Mandy I say "thank you!!" You have given me a priceless gift that I am forever grateful for and I love you.

To all of you who have let me do that for you...I am honored.

Here is just a peek at some of my favorites...

I am so in love with this next one.

This next one captures her perfectly. She LOVES flowers and make-up.

Welcome 2012....so glad to have you!

2012-01-08T21:49:00.000-08:00

There is just something about a new year that gets me all tingly inside. Silly I know! I love looking back on the past year and examining it..for both it's good and it's bad. And I love learning from both and striving to do better. I am a firm believer that the more you know, the better you do. With anything. So you should never stop learning. And this year I learned a lot.

2011 has been an amazing year for me! Both in my work life and my personal life. I feel so blessed to be able to do what I love for a living and so grateful for all your support. Michelle Peterson Photography had an amazing past year and got the chance to meet and work with so many awesome people. Thank you, thank you for always supporting me, trusting me and cheering me on!!! I appreciate it more than I can express!

So although 2011 was great...like all good things it has to come to an end. Or does it?

To 2012 I say "bring it!!" So many great sessions are coming our way. Some new projects in the works. A little cosmetic work. And always lots of fun for sure!!

So I hope that you will join me welcome in 2012 and then join me for the ride!

Cheers!

**Thank you to Mandy Lowe for above picture.**

Make sure that you are a fan on facebook to keep up with all the fun!!!

looking back on 2011 with gratitude {some favorites}

2011-12-30T08:28:00.000-08:00

We are about to say goodbye to another year. And as we do I am filled with so many emotions over 2011. There have been both ups and downs, tears and laughter and lots of hard work.

I have learned so much this year and am so very grateful for it. And I am so appreciative to all of you who support, mentor and cheer me on.

I love what I do!

As we leave 2011 I want to share just a few more of my favorites from this year.

Thank you 2011 and to 2012 I say "I can't wait!!!"

That's a wrap!

2011-12-27T09:54:00.000-08:00

It's finally arrived...me last session of the year!

It's bitter-sweet for me.

Some days it felt like the season was never going to end and others I never wanted it to.

I had so much fun this year, but am happy to enjoy a little down time the next few weeks as I take it easy and enjoy my little family.

Not to worry, there will be posts, just fewer for a few weeks. ;)

I couldn't have ended my year on a better note. A beautiful location with one of my favorite families!!

I can't get enough of this next one. Love it. So much!

Merry Christmas!!

2011-12-25T06:31:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from our Family to yours!!!!

They just can't get enough of me...

2011-12-19T22:50:00.000-08:00

and I can't get enough of them either!

You might remember this awesome couple from last month. Well, it was time for their first official family Christmas card and I had the honor of helping them with that fun task.

Robert, Elena and Dd...thank you so much for trusting me with your special moments. I always enjoy our time together (maybe a little too much).

xoxo

still time for savings...

2011-12-17T08:49:00.001-08:00

I have had some clients wanting to still purchase Holiday promos for next year so I am bringing them back for just a few days.

Just select your session and click the button below. It's that easy!

Also, I have it on good authotity that prices will be going up a bit next year. ;)

This is great if you know you will be getting photos done with me next year or want to give it as a gift to someone. Perfect for families, expecting parents, and engaged couples. Buy now and pick your date later!

***Offer good through midnight December 24th, 2011.***

the best things really do come in small packages

2011-12-15T13:10:00.000-08:00

As the hustle and bustle of the Holiday season is in full swing let us remember what is really important.

Our health.

Our family.

Our loved ones.

Life.

And spending time with those who are our "real gifts" everyday.

Sweet Tatum you are certainly a gift to your family and all that you meet.

Welcome to the world little one...so glad you are here!!

it runs in the family

2011-12-12T09:16:00.000-08:00

There was no denying that these two were related.

Both were sweet as could be and just flat out GORGEOUS!!!

Both also shared those baby-blues that could just melt you...and they did.

Thanks so much for the fun ladies...I had a great time with you.

Staci you are gorgeous!!!

my comfort food

2011-12-09T08:48:00.000-08:00

As with any job there are times that you start to feel a little burnt out.

You start to drag a little.

With my job that feeling comes at least once this time of year.

I have to admit that I was feeling it pretty hard when I had my session with this family. It had been lots of long days and late nights lately and lets face it...I was just plain tired!

This family had no idea, but they were just what I needed. They made me feel loved and special and their sweet smiling faces were just what I needed.

They were my comfort food!!

They filled me up as so many of my sessions have this year. I am truly blessed!

So to my new friends I say "thank you."

Enjoy your sneak peek...

I adore her

2011-12-08T09:11:00.000-08:00

There, I said it!

And it's 100% true.

I have know Yvette for years now. We used to work together before the days of married life and babies. I don't get to see her often enough, but when I do it always feels like "home" to me. She is just good for your spirit. Not only is she beautiful on the outside, but inside as well. There is just something about her that draws you near and puts a smile on your face.

I had so much fun chatting with her and seeing her beautiful kiddos. It was sensory overload for sure with all this cuteness.

Thanks for the fun guys. Next time I hope dad will join us. ;)

xoxo

Yvette you are stunning!!

my sweet job

2011-12-07T11:43:00.000-08:00

I don't know how I get so lucky! Really, I don't!!!

I have the sweetest and best looking clients ever.

They make me remember why I love my job so much. Especially in this busy Holiday season.

These two sure melted my heart!

SO much personality in one little package!!

One HOT mama.

I am in love with this next image. It needs to be displayed for all to see if I do say so myself (and I do). ;)

it was an honor...

2011-12-05T15:34:00.000-08:00

I can't tell you how happy it made me to shoot this session.

I'm not even going to tell you how long it has been since this family had a "family photo" taken of them.

I'm so glad that they trusted me to do this for them. I had so much fun with them..such a fun and sweet family.

I have a special love for mom as she now teaches my little man in school. And I must add that he loves her too.

Thanks for spending some time with me D family and for making me laugh a lot....it's always appreciated. ;)

And really, how gorgeous are these guys??

The M kids

2011-12-04T20:12:00.000-08:00

I look forward to seeing them every year!

I don't know how it's possible, but every year they get cuter!

And every year they melt me heart. This year was no exception!

Josh, so handsome and such a little gentleman. Offered to help me carry my props on his own.

Maddie, just a complete doll.

And Tyler, just a ball of energy and spunk.

I love this next image because this year he was so in love with his BIG brother.

I can't wait for next year guys! And I know dad is super excited to be part of the fun since he missed it this year!!! ;)

food for the soul {family}

2011-12-03T11:43:00.000-08:00

I hope that you are all lucky enough to know a family like this one!

They are good and kind and so fun to hang out with.

I especially adore Windy. She is good for me. She is the kind of friend that makes you want to be a better mother, friend, wife and just a better person in general.

She is food for my soul.

I am so glad that I finally got to spend some time with this family in front of my lens. Thanks for braving the cold with me guys.

xoxo

Fall is in the air {family}

2011-11-29T12:26:00.000-08:00

We don't see much of Fall here in Southern California and certainly not for too long.

So when we do , I embrace it.

We sure got it for this session along with the freezing weather. ;)

I adore this session!! I know, I say that a lot.

When the location and family are a perfect match...how could it be anything but great?!

So glad the weather was kind to us this day. And I'm so grateful to this awesome family for all the fun and most of all your trust in me!!

xoxo

Cyber Monday {promo}

2011-11-28T10:16:00.000-08:00

You still have time to take advantage of my 2011 Holiday promos in 2012.

Buy now and pick your date later!

For Cyber Monday take an additional $25 off the session of your choice.

***sale ends tonight at midnight***