Snap Happy Photography

Lifestyle newborn Photography session

2014-12-11T16:00:00.000-07:00

This session is exactly why I love In-Home sessions! So relaxed and so much fun. Everyone was in their comfort zone and look at the delicious gorgeousness we captured!

I have been privileged to capture this growing family from wedding to maternity to in-hospital newborn. They have such a beautiful loving bond and I can't wait to capture more milestones for them.

Enjoy the Sneak Peek, I can't wait for the family to see all of them!

Every photo was taken without studio lights, no backdrops or set-ups, just pure and simple comforts of home!

Why not book me today for YOUR in-home session?

Year end special.. Last sale of the year!

2014-12-04T13:57:00.003-07:00

Last sale of the year.... Get in while you can, only 4 spots available!!!

email me now for your reservation: bobbie@bobbielyons.com

Embracing the changes, welcoming the future with open arms!

2014-12-03T18:12:00.001-07:00

If you are a part of the Facebook community you have probably heard by now that things are changing for businesses that use posts to reach followers and drum up business.

For years it's been a great way for businesses to reach out to local and long distance customers and admirers. I've been a part of that crazy, wild ride that opened up followers and clients all over the world! I am grateful for that opportunity. Being a small business it's not always in the budget to do large scale advertising. Facebook has helped many of us grow and expand.

There have been changes recently that have made it harder and harder to reach our target audience through Facebook. My posts used to reach several hundred followers. It's now dwindled down to about a hundred for each post. That's a huge market that I'm missing now. I know some that have even said their posts reach less than 20. That is a painful and debilitating blow to us small business owners. The changes are still coming. Expect to see less and less of your followers finding you in their news feed!

Having said that, Facebook is still a great resource for small business. I'm not irritated by Facebook's changes and limitations on business pages. It's business, change is inevitable. It's better to roll with the changes than scoff at them and pout about how it 'used to be'.

There are a few ways we can remedy this:

One: Pay for the posts. I know, I know. The idea of PAYING to have your posts viewed feels wrong in so, so many ways. Especially because most of the ones who view it don't come running to you with money in hand to pay for your services/products. But, have you ever ran an ad in the newspaper? Have you ever had flyers or postcards printed? You paid for those. There was no way of telling whether or not your readers or recipients would come to your business. It was marketing. Simple as that. So is paying for a Facebook ad or post.

Two: Blog! You can blog all you want and no one is going to charge you to increase your views.... right? But, if you choose to blog, how many of your followers on Facebook will take the time to check out your Blog? Keep in mind that many of your 'likes' may not follow you to your blog. But the really, truly interested ones will! Quality over quantity, right? Of course, if you have a very specific audience you can always find ways to get them interested in your business and follow you to your blog. Not to mention, if you blog you have so much more creative control. You can post multiple photos, videos, customize the layout, font, etc. Blogging is definitely more creative that posting. Blogging can take a lot of time and effort. But, clients can tell when you have put effort into something, it shows you value it, therefore they will too!

Three: Email. Yup. Email. In the good 'ol days we only had email. We used to have to send emails to all of our potential clients and communicate directly. *wink wink* All kidding aside, this is a really great way to promote your business and keep contact with clients. I think emailing your latest blog post is one of the best ways to stir up excitement over a new product or offer. If you think this a great way to go but you're more than overwhelmed at the thought of writing, regularly, have no fear! There are pre-made email templates and blogs too! I'm all for the personal touch, but who says you have to stick to the template completely right? The downside to emailing is having to get them on your email list. Not to mention how many people will view your email as spam or junk? We all do it! We see an email from a business we visited in the past and instead of opening the email we just trash it, never knowing what was inside.

Honestly, they all have pros and cons. I have paid for Facebook ads and had nice results. On the other hand, my blog has yielded nicely as well. Email has been equally successful.

It boils down to what feels right for your business. Finding the right combo and sticking with it can give you the results you need to grow your business and reach your target audience!

What am I going to do? I am keeping my Facebook business page, but will post a lot less there. I will post when I blog or have specials posted to my website or blog, but, I am not going to focus on Facebook for marketing. The occasional campaign maybe, but not anything regular. My blog will get most of my attention, it certainly needs it, I've neglected it for so long. Of course, I'll be sharing my blog with those on my email list.

It may take some time to find just the right blog to Facebook ratio, but it can be done!

NEW website!

2014-07-23T21:27:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to share my NEW website with everyone!

It has all my information on my sessions, workshops, workbook and a newly refreshed FAQ's - There is even a place for clients to send me a compliment form, which I'm super excited about. I get to hear from you what you loved about your session and then my potential clients can see for themselves what it is about my work that people like!

Please stop by and check it out. (the mobile version is pretty cute too!) Send me an email letting me know you visited the site, what you liked about it and any suggestions for improvement that you may have!

I have a special drawing coming up and you could win big!!!!!

So what are ya waiting on??? Go check it out:

www.bobbielyons.com

Mini Session Madness!

2014-02-27T13:16:00.001-07:00

Let the fun begin!!!

March is Mini-Session Madness! I have put together three packages to choose from, but you need to hurry and book now, there are limited spaces and they go fast!

Don't forget to spread the love and share this with your friends so they can get in on all the fun too!

Baby E

2014-02-08T11:53:00.000-07:00

I've been photographing this little man's family since his mama was pregnant with his big sister, and let me tell you, he is just as sweet as the rest of his family! I just love them all and am so happy to share a few little peeks into his newborn session. I would love to have shown them all to you, but, I wanted to save a few surprises for mommy and daddy!

I love the little details that us busy mama's sometimes forget in those first few months. Itty bitty toes, squishy little lips, tiny fingers, and that sweet sweet new baby hair!

Safety note: Newborn's should never be left alone in baskets, buckets or on/in other props. Mommy was always right next to him with her hands on him. Babies can move unexpectedly, keep them safe and never let go of them, always use a spotter when photographing newborns! My shots are composites.

Payson, Phoenix, Mesa, Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, Arizona family photographer at your service, contact me today to book your session!

Session Highlights Fall 2013

2013-11-21T09:05:00.000-07:00

I have had so much fun this Fall! I've been able to meet so many new clients, been a part of some grand events and we've had great times together capturing some memorable moments and preserving some treasured smiles! Here is a quick peek at some of the sessions I've done this Fall:

I want to send out a BIG thank you to all my clients! You've made this year fun and extremely memorable! Because of the huge support and my amazing clients I am in the process of a big thank you to all of you, keep a look out for it in your inbox!

I can't wait to see what's in store for next year!

I can't wait for some snowfall so I can share some really amazing shots with you! Don't forget, you can sign up for the blog and never miss a promotion or highlight reel!

Heart of a Princess

2013-09-24T12:17:00.001-07:00

So this session is one of my all time favorites! Not only because her mama and I grew up together and just happens to be one of my dearest friends, but, because this little sweetheart proves on a daily basis that strength and determination comes in all sizes.

Little miss Haley is your typical one and half year old. She is the youngest of four, and the ONLY girl! She has a smile that melts your heart and a giggle that fills the room with a bubbly glee that you have to experience to understand. She's adventurous, curious, stubborn, strong, sweet, funny, independent, smart, thoughtful, imaginative and so, so much more! Haley has a heart of gold, (just like her mama). She's tough as nails and yet soft and delicate, as any princess would be. She can put her brothers in place instantly and isn't afraid to voice herself! She gives the sweetest hugs and is one of the best cuddle bugs ever.

For all that she is and all that she will become, Shakespeare says it best:

"Though she be but little, she is fierce!"

Where'd my Summer go?

2013-08-15T10:21:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe how long it's been since I Blogged! It seems like my Spring whispered in my ear and was gone before I could turn around! Then Summer hit and I have barely taken in a breath and it's almost gone! We've been busy, with family, friends and work. We've had a great time the past few months and it's not over yet! With vacation coming up and more family time I'm sure I'll have more to post, not just work related either! I will try to keep this blog up a bit better now that things have calmed down a bit.... {waiting for lightning to strike my house or my phone to start ringing off the hook or something exciting to happen now that I've said that!}

So, here's a brief photo re-cap of our Summer both work and family:

So, what's in the works for the rest of our Summer? Well, I've got a Gender Reveal shoot, a few more family shoots, a newborn shoot, our family vacation and a few more fun things coming up!!! As of right now, our schedule is full, our fun is in full swing with no signs of stopping!

Lifestyle at it's sweetest!

2013-02-11T17:18:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to share with you some of the sweetest lifestyle photos I've ever had the privilege to take. What a special family. The love and warmth they showed each other just oozes through the photographs and warms my heart!

I loved the out-takes too! What a sweet little lady!

Introducing the all new Senior Rep Program!!!!

2013-01-17T09:43:00.000-07:00

Calling all High School juniors! How would you like to win a FREE photo session with me???

I’m looking for two super-fun, out-going juniors to be a part of my brand new Senior Rep Program for the class of 2014!

Sound like fun? Keep reading.

As next year’s high school senior, you will be representing me as a senior portrait photographer here in Payson! You will receive a free mini-session before the end of your junior year, all you have to do is tell your friends about me and ask them to book a session with me!

How? Before school gets out of your junior year, you’ll be provided with free printed materials from your session to hand out to all of your friends, and some images to share online. One of the best ways to spread the word is just by talking to your friends about your photo shoot and how fantabulous it was! You’ll have all summer to refer as many of your friends as you can. BONUS: Every successful referral you send my way earns you more stuff!

So… what’s in it for you? We’ll shoot a free mini-session! (In March or April) You’ll get personalized senior rep cards to give out to your friends! (By June) Five web-ready digital images, to share online! Your very own online gallery! Not to mention the bonuses you can earn!!

2 Referrals= $20 off your full senior session & a $5 print credit

3 Referrals- $30 off your full senior session $ a $10 print credit

4 Referrals = $40 off your full senior session & a $15 print credit

5 Referrals= $50 off your full senior session & a $20 print credit

6 Referrals= $60 off your full senior session & a $25 print credit

So, does this sound like fun or what?! Want to apply? Remember…..I’m only picking two! Apply today!

Application Due: February 15^th

Notified by: February 19^th

Mini shoot completed by April 30^th

Full Session completed by October 31^st

Here’s how to apply:

Step 1: Get your parents’ permission!

Step 2: Contact me via email (bobbie@bobbielyons.com) with the following info:

Your info (name, age, etc.) and your parent(s) contact info. Include a picture of yourself. Tell me a little bit about yourself, why you think you deserve to win this opportunity and how you plan on representing me and earn your referrals!

It’s that easy! So….what are you waiting for?????? APPLY NOW!

Roses and Camo, the perfect combination!

2012-11-20T14:48:00.002-07:00

Yes, it's true.... Roses and Camo do go together, perfectly! Don't believe me? Browse through my day with Jenna and Steven and their fantabulous wedding day and I venture to guess your opinion may soften and you will agree with me....

And the day begins with Mimosa's and Make-up, Dresses and Ribbons, Diamonds and Boots...

And then the event began, and what a beautiful event it was!

Don't you just love how the Camo compliments the outdoor setting?!

Ahhh... yes... the Kiss!!

Don't you just love the little details????

Anybody here a football fan? No? I didn't thinks so... :)

The sweetness of the Father-Daughter dance and the tenderness of the Mother-Son dance really touched my heart! What love this family has for each other!

As the night was winding down, you could see the joy and love blooming ever more between these two love-birds!

What did I tell ya? Her Roses and His Camo went perfectly together to make for a uniquely wonderful and organic theme come together with grace, beauty and heart!

What a privilege it was to be a small part of such a wonderful event! I met two wonderful people and their amazing friends and family. They were all so nice and everyone was so focused on this Bride and Groom, you could tell they were all ecstatic to share in this romantic event!

I am still so amazed at how each wedding I photograph has such a unique feel to it and I never get over the absolute love I have for weddings and all the romance, tenderness, emotion & excitement that each one exudes!

Jenna & Steven, thank you so much for having me be a part of your wedding day! I am so thankful I got to meet you and your wonderfully sweet family & friends!!

Baby bump love

2012-09-13T15:31:00.001-07:00

In this business I get to meet all sorts of people and families that I would have otherwise not met. I am grateful for that. Each family, each session has a different feel, a different life about it. I especially love seeing the dynamics at work. When you are looking to capture moments, emotions and life itself, you see things that perhaps might not be seen by other people. There have been sessions that have brought tears to my eyes, joy to my heart and made me love my work even more!

I was privileged to be a part of one such session recently. I could see the love in their eyes for each other. I heard the tenderness and warmth when they spoke to each other. I witnessed the devotion they had as they interacted with each other. It was a beautiful, moving experience for me.

Anyone who has children can tell you that the pregnancy itself is a unique experience. Some have beautiful pregnancies with little to no complications. Others, like me, have long, hard pregnancies with many ups and downs. Either way, when it's all done and you have your little one in your arms, the previous 9 months seem to fade into the background and it becomes a cherished memory. No matter the pain, no matter the trials, no matter the sickness - those months you spent waiting and preparing for your little one is a beautiful time in your life.

Having beautiful portraits to remember that special time is priceless. When you look back at those pictures, you won't feel the pain, the sickness or any other negative emotions you felt then, you will have a feeling of love, tenderness, nostalgia and gratitude come over you.

Megan and Tyler will be welcoming their new little buddle of joy very soon! She is a beautiful mother-to-be. He is a compassionate father-to-be. Together they are a stunning couple with a wonderful future ahead of them!

I am grateful to have been included in this precious time of your lives, Tyler and Megan, thank you!

Itty bitty familia....

2012-09-05T17:18:00.000-07:00

Not only have I been so privileged to have photographed her sweet pregnancy, I was also allowed to photograph their little sweetheart once she arrived, and now, they have allowed me the privilege of capturing their family once again. I have a heart full of love for this sweet little, itty bitty, family! I have enjoyed watching this beautiful baby girl grow and I look forward to seeing her learn to walk and I can't wait for our next session, when I will most likely be chasing her and running behind her with my camera!

Thank you, Salcido Family, for all the fun memories and letting me in on your sweet little world!

2013 Seniors ~~~ I am looking for two reps!

2012-08-15T15:53:00.003-07:00

Win a FREE photo session with me!

2012-08-15T08:16:00.003-07:00

Yes, it's true... you can win a FREE photo session with me! Just head on over to my Facebook page to enter!!! It's easy, like my page, share my page and get your friends to comment on my Free Session post!!! The more people you send to my page, the more entries you get!

So..... What are ya waiting for????

Snap Happy Photography on Facebook

Have fun and spread the word!!!

Session Coupon

2012-08-08T09:22:00.001-07:00

Here's a special coupon for anyone thinking of scheduling a session! Be sure to spread the word, send your friends here to get their discount too!

There's no better time to book a session than right now! Family, Maternity, Senior... whatever your photography needs are, give us a call now!

15% Off!!

15% off your next session!
Can't be combined with other offers or discounts. Not valid for events. Expires 12/31/12
Discount applies to session fee only. You must present this coupon at the time of booking.

2013 Graduate Special!

2012-07-20T14:06:00.001-07:00

Hey 2013 Graduates!

It's not too early to start thinking about your graduation session! And, boy, do I have a deal for you! Here's what you'll get:

One 45 minute on location session booked anytime between August and October 2012

A DVD with 5 fully edited images

One 5X7

One 45 minute on location session booked anytime between March and May 2013

A DVD with 5 fully edited images

One 5X7

All of the great images from both sessions will be uploaded to a password protected gallery that you may share with friends and family. Within the time alloted, unlimited outfit changes, location changes and unlimted photos taken!

PLUS: One custom photo book, with images from both sessions, designed just for you by me!

Themed sessions are gladly welcomed!

What a great way to preserve your graduation memories!

You can get the 2013 Graduate Special for: $175!

Want to add a friend or two to add to the fun and great memories??? $25 per person up to 5 people total. If you'd like more information on group graduation specials, email me at bobbie@bobbielyons.com

Just a few favorites...

2012-03-26T08:37:00.003-07:00

I just had to share some of my favorites that I've taken. I know some of these have been posted here before, but, I couldn't help but share them again! I smile every time I look at these! I was just looking through some of my older projects and fell in love with these all over again! I hope they brighten your day and bring a smile to your face too!

I must apologize...

2012-03-01T09:09:00.000-07:00

I have not been very consistent as of late with my blogging and posting. I am sorry for that. I know some of you have been waiting for me to post and I've let you down. I will try very hard to get back on track with my posting! I promise!

Now, I must share a few of my favorite photos that were taken at last months newborn shoot! She's just a doll and I loved every minute I got to spend with her and her sweet family!! I can't wait to take more of her as she grows!

I just love baby lashes!

Lovely little baby feet!

I love this one of her looking at her daddy.... he was comforting her in between shots. It was such a sweet moment!

She was getting a little upset with us, kicking her feet out of the blankets!

Aawww, baby lips! Just so sweet!

All is well, she got her paci!

Full tummy, fresh diaper and a warm outfit... the keys to a happy, sleepy newborn!

Just so beautiful! I just couldn't get enough of her!

Baby girls are so precious, and this one just takes the cake!

If you are interested in having photos done of your family or child, please give me a call today for specials!!!

Pursuit of a dream

2012-01-11T09:02:00.000-07:00

No one person starts out ahead of another. We all start from the same point. As artists we all start out with a desire. A desire to create. How we go about satisfying that desire determines how far it will take us.

A post on Facebook this morning by an amazing photographer and business woman got me thinking. Having so many 'newbie's' ask me for help, advice or encouragement, I thought I would share her post and then try my best to encourage all of you who are working toward your dream.

Here is the link to her post:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=342924395719581&set=a.210074142337941.55824.210070485671640&type=1&ref=nf

She quoted Ralph Waldo Emerson: "Every artist was first an amateur"

So what is the difference between an amateur and a professional?

Define "Amateur": A person who engages in a pursuit without pay.

Define "Professional: 'A person engaged in a specified activity as one's main paid occupation / Having or showing the skill appropriate to a professional person / A person competent or skilled in a particular activity'

I picked out some key words PURSUIT/ENGAGED/SHOWING/ACTIVITY

I have several people that have asked me when they can call themselves a professional photographer, whether or not there is a key point they need to be at or surpass before they can call themselves a pro... this is my opinion, and opinions do vary, but... I think by definition if you are regularly pursuing and engaged in photography, showing your work to friends, family and the community then you are engaged in the activity of professional photography. Skill levels come with time and practice.

Who am I to determine whether you are a pro or not? We all have different tastes and different ideas of what art is, so what one person finds enjoyment in as art another may find lacking. Oh, and just because you don't take portraits, doesn't mean your are not a professional photographer. There are so many different aspects of photography, you can't possible limit it to one and say that is the only category that is considered professional.

When you get to that point, YOU know! Don't wait for some great and wonderful event to tell you that you are a pro, sometimes you may miss it, or it may not happen at all, but it doesn't mean that you aren't a pro yet. As long as you are moving forward, continue to work toward your goal, grow, learn.... let your work speak for itself. You don't need anyone else's stamp of approval, trust me!

All of you are doing very well and all of you are artists in your own right! Remember, this post is meant to encourage all to keep going, keep learning, keep shooting! Don't give up just because you are not 'as good' as another photographer you know or admire... you are a completely different person, with a completely different eye. Your style, your art will be yours and yours alone. You are an artist! You are amazing! Don't ever give up and don't ever compare yourself to someone else. Be uniquely you, not someone else.

I told a friend earlier when we were commenting on the post, you don't start out great, you start out hungry and as you feed that hunger you become great in you own way.

Not one of us professionals, (photographer or some other profession), can say that we have achieved the ultimate level of professionalism, we are done, reached the absolute top and there is no possible way to get any better... that's just not realistic. No matter how many paying customers you have, no matter how many years you have done this and no matter how many classes you have taken or conducted, we all have room to grow. There is always something new and different. As with most other professions, photography is constantly changing, with technology and society.

Don't let the term "professional" hold you back. It's just a word. I said it before and I will say it again: Let your work speak for itself. Just keep moving forward.

Keep on snapping,
Bobbie

And the winner is.....

2012-01-09T08:18:00.000-07:00

First of all I want to thank all of you for entering the giveaway! My first one of the year! Be sure to stay in contact with me for future giveaways!

So, you are all wondering who the winner of the baby bundle gift pack is, right?

Via Random.org the winning entrant was #6!

Congratulations: Sandra Betz! (Sandra Dee)

Your gifts will be mailed out to you this week!

Thanks again for playing everyone! The next giveaway will include multiple vendors, so keep an eye out for that one!

Here we go again!

2012-01-06T08:52:00.000-07:00

And yet another GREAT giveaway over at Forty Toes Photography! Be sure to go check it out!

Oh what fun it is to play today!!

2012-01-04T14:18:00.002-07:00

Hey everyone, so you really need to go check out the giveaway over at Forty Toes Photography!!

You can find more on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/fortytoesphotography

Have fun!

Baby bundle giveaway

2012-01-02T11:25:00.000-07:00

Who wants a FREE baby bundle gift box? I'm giving away one! I have had so much fun making these props and accessories and I just want to thank all of my supporters by hosting a giveaway. It's small and sweet, but easy to enter and will be so much fun for the winner!

Here's all the details:

ONE winner will receive a baby bundle gift box, which will include one hat, one headband and one bow-tie from my homemade prop line-up! You can see some of them here at my etsy store!

Sizes, colors and styles may vary. Prizes may not be the ones pictured above. To be chosen by me, as a surprise for the winner!

Follow these steps in order to enter to win:

1. (Required) You must LIKE my Facebook page from your personal page: www.facebook.com/snaphappyaz & please, post on my wall that you entered the giveaway! Come back here and post ONE comment that you completed step #1

2. (Required) Share the giveaway on your Facebook page and come back here and post ONE comment that you completed step #2 with a link to the page that you posted it on.

3. (Optional) Blog or tweet about it, come back here and post ONE comment that you completed step #3 and a link to where it was posted.

4. (Optional) Purchase from my etsy store and come back here and post ONE comment that you did so with the item you purchased. Please only complete this step one time, regardless of how many items you purchase. Thanks!

You should have at least TWO separate comments down below.

Please, be honest when you complete each entry, I will be checking prior to announcing the winner!

~Winner will be chosen via Random.org and announced as soon as it is verified.

~ International winner will need to pay shipping.

~This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or in associated with, Facebook.

~ Entry is open January 2, 2012 to January 8, 2012 11:59pm MST

Thanks again for all of your support! Have fun!