Black Friday, and a Thankful Giveaway!

Happy Thanksgiving Week, everyone!  It's a busy week for me.  My day job is in retail, so I'm mentally preparing myself for the hectic Black Friday sales crowds.  It can be difficult to feel excited about the holidays with the shopping rush all around me, so I wanted to take a minute and just be thankful for every single client I've worked with this year. 

To say a very enthusiastic "Thank You!" for all of your support and encouragement, I invite you all to take advantage of some very special savings this Thanksgiving week. 

The Black Friday Special will go live at 12:01am on Friday November 23rd.  Stay tuned to the blog and the Heather Harris Photography Facebook Page for details on how to purchase!

And now for the Giveaway!! 

I'm very excited to be giving away a fantastic mini-session to one lucky reader of the blog and Facebook page! 

THE PRIZE:

One 45 minute Mini-Session with Heather Harris Photography, usable any time in the 2013 year, and good for any location in the Point Pleasant/Huntington/Charleston areas
Eight final edited images
Three Digital Negatives on DVD
Three Gift Print Credits

Value: $250!


HOW TO ENTER:

First, make sure you're a fan of the HHP Facebook Page. 

Then, Share our giveaway post on your wall. 

Finally, leave us a comment letting us know what YOU are thankful for this season! 


I'll accept entries on the blog all week long, until midnight on Saturday.  One entry per reader, please.  The winner will be randomly selected via Random.org, and I'll announce the lucky winner next Sunday!

The Gilkey Family | Charleston, WV Family Photographer

Another beautiful fall day in October, another beautiful family session in Huntington's Ritter Park. 

Many thanks to the Gilkey family for a great shoot experience!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Sweeney Family | Charleston, WV Family Photographer

When I photograph a family, I try to tell their story.  I want to capture their likenesses, yes, but even more than that, I want their personality to shine so brightly that they can look at their photographs and scream "Yes! That's us!" 

I didn't have to try very hard with the Sweeney family.  This super awesome "pose" was all theirs and shows how much fun they are!  I had a blast with their session, but this one single image really says it all.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Chelsea and James | Huntington, WV Wedding Photographer

When it comes to taking great photos, weddings are a guilty pleasure of mine. Every wedding is so different, so unique and representative of the bride and groom for which it exists.

I don't shoot many weddings. They're stressful creatures and definitely more work intensive than a typical family session. But there's something about the relationship between a bride and her photographer. Surely, these are the two people who get why the all the little details have to be just so. Because at the end of the day, if it all comes together, you get a little bit of magic, and more love than will fit in the viewfinder of a camera.

I was honored to photograph my good friend and coworker's wedding this summer. The charming event was overlfowing with the most darling DIY touches, all created by the bride and her family.

Here are a few of my very favorites from their special day...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Congratulations Chelsea and James!  Many, many years of joy and happiness to you both!

We're Moving! (And We're Leaving the Internet Behind. Eek!)

I've got some good news!

(And then I've got some bad news...)

The Good, or Great! News:

Our family is moving into a new home this month!   This move has been in the works for several months now, and I'm so excited we're down to the final days.  Moving is a lot of work, especially when the kids think it's fun to unpack boxes that have already been filled, but it will all be worth it in the end when we are cozy and settled into our forever home.  We were so blessed to be able to purchase this home, many years before we thought we would be able, so we are taking all of the inconveniences in stride.

I must admit, I'm neglecting my photography a bit in favor of sitting on comfy couches and daydreaming about my new front porch.  Or trying to decide on paint colors for the kitchen (I still have NO clue!).  It's so much fun to think ahead about making this space something that belongs uniquely to us, and I'm looking forward to adding all the personal touches.  I've been pinning fun ideas on Pinterest for AGES.

See what I mean?  I am READY! 


But....

There's also Bad News. 

See, the fantastic house we bought?  It's out in the country.  Not WAY out in the country, but far enough out that we can see the stars with no problems.  And apparently, it's one of the last bastions of No-Internet-Land left in the entire lower 48 states. 

No internet!

Well, let me correct myself here.  Internet is available.  But it's the old dial up kind (remember that?!), and is likely to be unreliable.

Sadly, that means I won't be online as much to update the blog, my Facebook page, or my website with fabulous photos of all my clients.  I won't lie - I'm kind of scared of what this drop in exposure and online marketing will do to my tiny little business, but I do hope all of my clients and readers can be patient!

Because I WILL be back online.  There's no way in the universe I could give it up altogether. 

But oh, my goodness, will I miss Pinterest in the meantime!

Session Premiere Slideshow Preview | Ashton, WV Photographer

Today, I want to share something special with you all.

Last week, I blogged about my brand new baby nephew.  This week I was able to wrap up his newborn session, and was able to implement - for the first time! - a brand new feature of the Heather Harris Photography experience.

Part of your personalized Session Premiere experience with Heather Harris Photography includes a custom designed, one of a kind slideshow featuring your session images.  I am so, so excited to be offering this service to my clients!  The design and premiere of the slideshow on your home television is included in every Session Premiere, and slideshows are available for purchase on DVD, either as part of a Premiere Night Collection, or a la carte!

Want to see what the fuss is all about?  Let me introduce you to baby Gavin all over again:





As a new aunt, I know I'm biased, but isn't that the most precious thing ever?

I want every one of my clients to have this special keepsake for themselves, and to LOVE everything the new Heather Harris Photography portrait experience has to offer.  Doesn't that sound fabulous?  I sure think so!

Gavin Blake | Ashton, WV Newborn Photographer

My little brother became a dad for the very first time on May 26th, and I am so happy and so honored that he let me have the privilege of photographing his tiny son's first portraits.

I'm so proud to introduce you all to my brand new nephew.

Welcome to the world, Gavin Blake!  We're so happy to have you here with us!

The New Experience: The Session Premiere | Huntington, WV Family Photographer

This post is the second in a series of post on new changes to Heather Harris Photography.  You can find the first post here.  



The Session

It goes without saying that your session is going to be awesome!  When we meet, we'll ease into the photography.  We'll hang out for a moment, get comfortable with each other.  And then the fun starts!  Sessions typically last around seventy minutes or so, but there is never a time limit.  I am committed to providing you with a full compliment of images, and if that means taking a little extra time, then I am okay with that.  We all know that working with kids is highly unpredictable at best, and sometimes it takes a little extra coaxing for little ones to be comfortable in front of the camera.

 

The Session Premiere

Imagine this: you sink down onto a comfy sofa in your home, a delicious cupcake in hand, while the final images from your portrait session reveal themselves one by one in high definition as part of a custom designed slideshow.  Doesn't that sound amazing?  Doesn't that sound so much better than viewing your images in a boring old web gallery? 

You are going to LOVE your Session Premiere!  On premiere night, my clients are pampered and treated to the very best, and I love every minute of it.  From the custom designed slideshow to the amazingly delicious dessert (Yes, that's right - I bring dessert!), the Session Premiere is all about celebrating you and your family! 

Premiere night is also your opportunity to enjoy specials deals and discounts not available at any other time.  Portrait Collections, which are designed to include all of the "must haves" that every portrait client is dying to get their hand on, are only available on premiere night and at huge savings.  Premiere prices on A la Carte pieces are also discounted by 25% over regular retail prices, making the Session Premiere your way to save BIG on all the fantastic image keepsakes you want for your family.

In addition, I will be on hand to personally assist you in selecting imagery and products for your home!  Not sure which great portrait of your kids would look best over the sofa?  Not to worry, I can help with that! When I photograph a family, I don't want those images sitting on a DVD, never to see the light of day.  I want to help you get those great photos up on the walls where they're going to make you smile every time you walk into the room. 


Seriously, I can't wait to show you first hand how fabulous the new Session Premiere is!!  Next week,  I'll wrap up this short series by outlining the new Portrait Collections and the new session fee.  I just know you're going to love it!! 

Brittany, Class of 2012 | Huntington, WV Senior Photographer

It's that time of year again, when high school seniors are cleaning out their lockers for the last time and getting ready to head off to college or out into the great, wide world.

Brittany is one of those seniors, and what makes her extra special is that she's also my niece.  Congratulations, Brittany!!  We're all so proud of you and all your accomplishments!

And congratulations to ALL the seniors graduating as part of the Class of 2012!!

The New Experience: Before Your Session | Huntington, WV Family Photographer

As promised, this is the first post in a small series designed to highlight some of the exciting things that are unfolding here at Heather Harris Photography. 

One of my top goals as a photographer and business owner, along with producing gorgeous imagery for my clients, is always to make sure that every client has a wonderful experience.  I want all of my clients to look forward to their portrait sessions with happiness and excitement, not dread them as another thing to cross off the to-do list.  Photography, visually capturing the story of your life, should be filled with many emotions.  Dread, boredom, or annoyance should never be one of them! 

With that - and my busy clients - in mind, I've redesigned my session experience into something so much more fabulous and exciting.  Here's how it all begins:

Pre-Session Consultation

Before you book your session, we'll have a great chat about your photography needs and expectations.  We'll powwow any way you feel comfortable - by phone, e-mail, or in person at your home or a local bakery/coffee shop.  I'll take some time to get to know you, we'll talk about the kind of portraits you envision, what your family likes, even your favorite colors!  The pre-session consultation is a joint effort to design the perfect portrait location, poses, even wardrobe!  And I will answer any and all questions you have, and even some you haven't thought of yet! 

Some things to think about before your consultation are:

- Your decorating style.  We definitely don't want your portraits to look out of place in your home.   

- Your family's style.  If you're a super casual family and everyone shows up dressed to the nines, it can be difficult to get comfortable! 

- Locations that mean something to you, or illustrate part of your family's story.

- Special props or mementos to include in your session.

The Welcome Packet

Once you've booked your session, I'm going to send a welcome packet off to you that includes everything you need to prepare for your upcoming session.  Portrait contract and model release, a style guide to help you choose your picture day wardrobe, a preview of the exciting keepsakes we'll create together using your images, and a few more fun surprises....it's all going to be in there!  The welcome packet is designed to make your preparation effortless, but if you still find yourself with unanswered questions, that's okay!  I'm always a Facebook message, phone call, or text away with a quick answer!

I really believe that the secret to a successful portrait session is all in the planning and preparation!  The few short hours in front of the camera lens turn into something absolutely magical when concrete plans come together seamlessly to tell your family story.  

Coming up next week: new and exciting changes to your portrait session, including the new Session Premiere!

Baby D | Charleston, WV Baby Photographer

Back in February, I had the pleasure to photograph a two-week old bundle of sweetness, and his equally sweet mama. 

Babies are always a challenge.  Everyone knows they're on their own schedule!  But with lots of patience, cuddles, and plenty of nursing breaks, the little guy was finally ready to pose for his debut!  

Here are the best of Little D's session, along with his beautiful mama Trebor:

What a sweet, sweet blessing!

Getting Ready for Something New

Am I crazy?

There are days, many days in fact, that I'm convinced I'm crazy for trying to do it all. 

I'm a pretty busy creature.  Three kids under six, a full time job, a happy and healthy marriage, homeschooling...all of these things are SO important and they take SO much work, but they are SO worth it!  I love being a mother, and I love my family more than anything. 

But I also love my craft.  I love that ethereal "between time" that happens when I'm behind the lens and I just "click" with a client.  I love getting lost in beautiful images as I post process a session.  The big reveal, when I can finally unveil a client's wonderful images, makes me absolutely giddy.  Photography makes me so happy.  It fulfills me in a way I've been trying to find, career-wise, since I was old enough to hold down a job. 

Like anyone, I struggle to find balance between all the aspects of my life.  More often than not, my passion for portraiture gets left in the dust.  As a mom of little bitties, this is pretty much okay with me.  But soon - and much sooner than I'd like! - my kids will be older, more independent, and less needy of Mom hovering over their tiny lives.  When that time comes, I plan to step away from my current career and rock my camera full time.    

Success is scary...

I'll admit it: I'm afraid.  I mask it well, but self-confidence has always been once of my weak spots.  As a creative person, this is often the kiss of death because I don't have that necessary touch of arrogance to keep me going when it seems the whole world is out to get down on my work. 

For a long time, I've been terrified to behave like a true business woman.  If I treat my business like an expensive hobby, well, then failure doesn't hurt as much, right?  WRONG.  Failure hurts no matter what.  And it's unavoidable!  If you're doing anything in life, and doing it without failure, you're never going to grow and improve.

Last month, I had an epiphany.  I realized three things.  One, I want to be a photographer for the rest of my life.  Two, I want as much time as possible (much more than I get now!) to spend with my family.  And three, I want to be able to give my photography clients the best portrait experience of their lives! 

Shaking things up...

 

To reach my goals of helping support my family with my photography, I realized I'd have to turn my business model on its head.  Talk about facing fears!  I recognized that I would have to charge more, work less, and make every client experience 1000% more fantastic. 

I am in the process of making SO MANY exciting changes, and I can't wait to scream them from the rooftops.  Every single change that I'm implementing to my business processes is designed to pamper, excite and wow every single client.  

Over the next few weeks, I'm going to be sharing all the exciting new developments with you all.  From exquisite new products, to the new welcome packet, to the amazing new Session Premiere with an absolutely delicious dessert...there are tons of great new things to talk about! 

I hope you're as excited as I am, and I hope you'll join me back on the blog later this week for the first "unveiling" of awesomeness!

Pinterest: Another Tool in the Photographer's Gear Bag

My Prop and Backdrop Wishlist Pinboard

I'm sure most of you have heard about, or are using, Pinterest, the website that allows you to curate collections of your favorite things from across the internet.  Pinterest is a visual feast for the eyes, a gorgeous collection of images, ideas, and inspiration.  I love it.

It's no surprise that I use Pinterest for keeping track of a number of photography and business related topics.  I have a pinboard for Marketing, several pinboards for session and pose ideas, pinboards of little tips and tricks to make my life easier...the list goes on and on.

A sampling of my (many, many) pinboards.

My Pinterest account is good for my clients, too!   Browsing through my boards gives my clients an even better idea of what I'm all about.  My style, my vision, the direction I'd like to take my business...it's all there for everyone to see, making it even easier for them to decide if I'm the right person to capture their memories. 

Recently, I've discovered a great new use for Pinterest that brings me even closer to my clients - collaborative boards!  Collaborative boards are pinboards that allow more than one user to add or subtract images and ideas.  Kind of like a community bulletin board, but with as many or as few people allowed to post as you want.  How does something like that enhance the Client-Photographer relationship?  Like this:

I'm shooting a wedding in June.  I don't do many weddings, but I'm super excited about this one because I've known the bride for a couple of years and she is as fun and funny and quirky and great as they come.  Her wedding is going to be a blast!  She has so many fantastic ideas for her special day, and her enthusiasm and great sense of style have inspired me so much that I just can't wait to get behind the lens and capture some of these great ideas we've cooked up together.

Because this bride knows her style and knows exactly what she wants, she's got list and lists of photos she'd love to have from her wedding day.  Because her taste and style matches my artistic style, I am only too happy to work hard to give her what she wants.  Enter the Collaborative Pinboard.  We take turns posting ideas to her wedding photography board, giving and receiving feedback, and over time the pinboard has developed it's own theme and tone.  Basically, we're setting the stage for the wedding ahead of time.

For the bride, this kind of collaboration gives her confidence that I know exactly what she wants from her wedding day photography.  It's lets her know that I'm paying attention, that I'm excited about photographing her big day, and that I'm going to give her my very best.  That's a lot of bonus client goodwill gleaned from surfing Pinterest! Which, lets be honest now, I'd definitely be doing anyway!

This kind of approach isn't a one-size-fits all kind of thing.  It won't work for all photographers, and it definitely won't work for all clients.  But for this photographer?  And this client?  It's working like magic, and magic is what we're looking to create when I step up with the camera on June 2nd.  It's not a tool I'll try to use every single time, but I love knowing I have it up my sleeve if I want to pull it out.

What about you?  As a photographer, how do you use Pinterest to maximize your business, or to interact with your clients? 

Oh, yeah, and if you're on Pinterest, come follow me!  I love, love, love having great new people and their mix of styles and voices show up in my pin feed.  

Facebook Fan Success, and a Freebie!

Wow!  It's been an amazing week for me over on the Facebook page.  In just seven short days, my fanbase expanded from 70 to 197!  More than double, which is so exciting and so humbling.

As promised, I'm here now with a freebie for all my clients and fans, as a thank you for all your business and your wonderful feedback.  I'm grateful for each and every one of you!

To celebrate surpassing the 100 fan mark, I'm giving away this simple and sweet 12 x 12 story board collage!  Perfect for Valentine's Day and all year long, this storyboard is a digital download that you can use to showcase some of the sweetest photos of your loved ones.  It also works great as a digital scrapbook page!

Your photos are easy to add to the storyboard in Photoshop, Elements or any other imaging program, and I'm happy to help out if anyone has difficulties.

The download is a high resolution, layered, .TIF file.  

You can see the storyboard below including a super cute couple from one of my engagement portrait sessions.   

Want this storyboard to hang on your wall, or for your scrapbook?  Download by clicking here!  And again, Thank You  for all of your support!

(Don't forget to drop me a note if you like the freebie and plan to use it!)

Brittany, Class of 2012 | Huntington, WV Senior Portrait Photographer

This post could be alternatively titled: "What I've been up to since August."

When last I left the blog, I was taking a small break to concentrate on family and homeschooling my kids. Now that the Christmas holidays are over and life is a littler calmer, and my little one is a little more grown up, I definitely feel ready to jump back in!!

I can't wait to get back into the swing of things, and I have lots of new products and ideas to share with all of you. Until then, I want to share one of the portrait shoots I did on my mini-haitus.

My fantastic Senior Model for the 2012 school year is a bright, smart, funny, vivacious girl who was an absolute DREAM to photograph! Brittany was up for anything, and had quite a few fantastic pose and shot ideas of her own. And really, any girl who carries a fedora as part of her wardrobe changes is A-OK in my book!

Brittany and I had a great time shooting her senior portrait at Harris Riverfront Park in Huntington. It was my first session at the park, and I'm glad to have another good location to add to my shoot list!

 These are just a few of my favorite shots from Brittany's shoot. And believe me, it was hard to choose!