Parsons Photography

Saying goodbye...

2011-01-30T06:38:00.000-08:00

to blogger! I finally made the switch over to Word Press! The new blog is up at http://parsonsphotoblog.wordpress.com/ - please be sure to follow that one! This one will remain up, but I will no longer post on here.

I'm hoping the new blog will streamline our photos and new slide shows. Pop over and tell me what you think!

#11 My Children Will Do it Differently

2011-01-28T16:30:00.000-08:00

I have two kids - two girls, to be exact. Alexandra, my oldest, is 6 1/2 and Evanthea is 5. My kids are my inspiration - and not just creatively (they do give me some great ideas!). The fact that they look at the world uncensored amazes me.
We, as adults, are trained to think before we speak (well, some of us are...but that's another post altogether!) - kids aren't. They speak what pops in their minds. Some times it's off the wall, but some times it's really cool!

I actually ask my kids their opinion on things - not that I think they should run my business (although my 5 year old is ready to take over...as soon as she can stay up past 7...), but they give me an honest answer. I ask my husband a question, and his response is generally "I don't know" or "sure"...but my kids - they'll say something's cool and get excited about it...or give me "that" look.
How will they do things differently? I hope they keep this uncensored raw instinct....but learn the fine art of negotiating with manners. I think they'll run their own businesses much more successfully - they already have technology down!
I hope they follow their dreams and do everything they want - even if it hurts them (after all, we learn through our mistakes, right?). I hope they keep their dreams big (Alexandra wants to marry her best friend, be a paleontologist and live in NYC; Evanthea wants to be a dentist and a photographer). I hope they keep reaching for the stars...and I hope a lot of people tell them they can't do anything - because that will push them to can do it!

#16 Empower Your Best Customers

2011-01-27T05:30:00.000-08:00

I firmly believe that as a business owner, I should find that delicate balance of finding new clients as well as make my current (or past) clients just as happy. As many of you know, weddings is my main focus as a photographer - so how can I make current or past clients happy?

First of all, I meet or beat ALL deadlines - that nonnegotiable. I tell them their proofs are ready in 6 weeks and email them in 3 or 5 saying they're ready. If I ask for an additional 4 weeks for their album design and it's ready in 3. I set my own bar high and I meet it. I have never missed a deadline - never.

Next, I don't treat my clients like clients...as soon as they sign a contract, they are a part of the "Parsons Photo Family". We welcome them to the family and make them feel like they're a part. About 80% of the Parsons Photo Family can tell you at the drop of a hat what's going on with my kids at this moment. That's cool, isn't it? :)

And they stay a part of our family - my favorite joke turns out to be true: "all weddings lead to Mallory". Mallory, our bride of the 2009 photo of the year, has directly and indirectly introduced us to at least 4 of our couples! And I photographed her little baby, Aiden's newborn session too! (I still plan on bringing their photo to bridal shows because we have found that at least one person knows her and we get a kick out of it!)

The photo at the top of the blog is a bridal show sign. Not mine, though! It's After Hours DJ Entertainment's sign but it's our bride - a wedding we did together. And not just any wedding, Amanda & Todd's wedding. I love Amanda - I tease her because she probably gave me the biggest challenge this year...she told me she didn't like the way she looked in her engagement photos. I know she was being self critical, but I took that as a challenge for her wedding....and I have to say that her wedding was probably my best work. We both won on that one! ;)

How do we empower these customers? Many are secrets that only our clients know of - we have fun games, incentives, secret sales, and giveaways. ;)

Bride's Choice 2011

2011-01-26T06:02:00.000-08:00

Wow...Jess and I are speechless at this point! We are so unbelievably humbled to have won two of the highest industry awards in one week! First, we found out we were chosen as a pick for The Knot's Best of Weddings for 2011 (that makes a 4 year run!); now we find out that we just won Bride's Choice from Wedding Wire!

AWESOME!!!!

Thank you so much to our amazing couples that voted for us this past year. We truly enjoyed working with you and becoming a part of your families! Thank YOU for letting us in to your most intimate time of your lives! We are blessed!!

#33 Idea Making and How I Make Something

2011-01-25T05:29:00.000-08:00

My life is governed by ideas - I am fortunate to have a career that is built upon creativity and I LOVE IT! I have to constantly keep fresh and keep up new ideas. A lot of people have asked me how I do it - where to do I get these ideas.

Some ideas are from other photographers - I see a shot I really like, I save it to my computer and then I study it. I then try to put my own twist to the idea and make it my own. I do give credit for the really creative ideas that I mimic - as I feel other photographers should.

Other ideas are from my kids - both of my kids are pretty creative and they come up with some fun ideas!

Sometimes I'll just randomly Google things when I don't feel like getting stuff done. I come across some fun marketing ideas that way.

But my favorite ideas stem from negativity of others - yes, you read that right! All my life, I have always taken "you can't do that" as a challenge of how I can. Most recently was my random thought of having a bride and groom do snow angels during their reception...I was told I can't. Well, I think the photo says it all! ;)

How do I make things happen? I open my mouth for starters! Those of you who know me, know I am not afraid to ask or talk. If I need help, I'll ask. If I don't agree with something, I have no problems either saying something or excusing myself from the situation. I think that's the best way to get things done - use your brain first, then your mouth! :)

Keep an eye out for some of our new ideas coming up this year - see if you can figure out how I developed that idea!

#5 Technology That Empowers Me

2011-01-23T06:55:00.000-08:00

There are many things I can list - but truly it's technology that keeps me going day to day: the computer I'm typing on right now, my TV that's showing a slideshow set from my computer, my DSLRs, my back up hard drives, my portable drives, my off side backups...shall I go on?

The one technology that empowers me, oddly enough is the same technology that I griped about yesterday! My cell phone.

Most specifically my Verizon Droid X - this is truly the first phone that I can run just about my entire business up on! Thursday night, at the fashion show, I was able to book 8 sessions, schedule those sessions, send the clients email, accept their credit card payments, email them receipts, deposit check payments into my account, and email Jess my schedule. How cool is that? :) That was all before I updated my Facebook status!

So, as much as I hate to say it - the technology that empowers me has got to be my Droid! :)

#10 Somebody Has to Say It

2011-01-22T07:19:00.000-08:00

Cell phones make our society stupid. There...I said it.

Yesterday, I was at Ocean State Job Lot, a quirky store that is massive in size and has just about anything you want...but the aisles are so tiny, two carriages can barely make it through. One lady parked herself in the middle of an aisle, leaned on her carriage bar and was concentrating on her cellphone (texting? web browsing? who cares - it was annoying either way). So many people politely said "excuse me" to get by her. She ignored 2, glared at one, and scoffed at another. She could have very easily moved her carriage aside and then took up her task on the phone.

The other thing that brings us down with our cell phones is general courtesy. I can't stand it when I'm speaking to someone in person, their phone rings, then they grab the phone and say "oh, it's so and so" and picks it up. No "excuse me" or push the mute button. Or when you're at the store and the people gabbing in the checkout line - hang up, finish what you're doing and call them back.

And this one I'm guilty of - who knows anyone's phone numbers any more? I don't know my husband's cell phone number. Why should I? It's programed on my phone - I just push his face and it dials...easy!

Now, our phones take us to where we want with navigation (men everywhere are dancing - now they don't need to ask for directions!!), pretend to be photographers (don't get me started about cell phone photogs at weddings...), they schedule our personal and business appointments in a matter of seconds, they allow us to track our kids, they allow us to accept payments, we can even shoot pigs with angry birds (some of you might not get that one...)!!!

But in general - I think cell phones make us stupid...just look at the statistics of car crashes caused by cell phones/texting.

[side note, the child in the photo is not using a real cell phone - this is a Tinker Bell plastic one. No child was made stupid for this blog post! And the photo was taken by my 5 year old - pretty cool technique!!]

Holy cow - 4 years in a row with The Knot!

2011-01-21T16:26:00.000-08:00

I am bursting right now...for the 4th year in a row, I received the email that stated: "Brides voted, YOU WON!!". I'll admit, I was a little nervous about not getting it...but I'm still shocked to get it!!

I posted this on Facebook and one of my favorite brides posted "Why does this surprise you Diane? You and the staff do a great job with capturing important moments in time!!!! We ♥ you!" (thank you again, Melissa!! We love you too!!!) - it does, it surprises me every time! It's humbling to see how many lives we have touched, it truly is.

As I stated in another post, photography is one of my true passions. And along with photography comes my knowledge of weddings - I am obsessed with weddings. I love every little detail and I love that my clients love every little detail!!

I thank my clients who voted for me; but most of all, I thank my amazing staff. And most importantly, Jess...without her...well, I probably wouldn't have any more cameras left (since I always manage to lose one at a wedding)!! THANK YOU to everyone!

Jess & I have decided to step up and make 2011 a KICK A$$ year! 2011 couples - you have been warned! ;)

Thanks again everyone for bringing this award to us - we are truly blessed by everyone who has touched our lives! Thank you!

Boudoir Fashion Show

2011-01-21T07:14:00.000-08:00

Last night we co-hosted a Boudoir Fashion Show with Salon Alexander and Beauty Entourage (located in Newington). This idea was the brain child of the salon's owner, Ashley Stone. Ashley and I worked together to come up with this really fun and innovative way to show women what a boudoir session is and how with the fun clothes, cute hair and makeup, and some sexy poses - anyone can do a boudoir session!

Here, Ashley and I are welcoming everyone and explaining about sessions and what to expect. Thank you everyone for coming out and supporting us! Jess & I booked 8 new sessions on the spot!! We are so excited about the upcoming shoots! (It's not too late to make your reservations for Valentine's Day!!)

One of my favorite shots from the day!

I love the roll playing costumes! So much fun! great idea if you man's a cop!!

Congratulations to Theresa! She was the winner of the free session and free hair and makeup for the session!!

we had a bunch of games for the ladies to participate in. The first one was a scavenger hunt - we had everyone search the salon for the answers...I loved watching the stealthy tiptoeing around!

The next game was a blindfold runway game! I'm not going to give too much away, because I think this one is going to be a tradition!

Back to the show! LOL!

Here's another one of my favs!

Here's an homage to our flier photo - the candy lips! I loved the whole ensemble with the hair clip and the knee highs! Too flipping cute!!
Rocking the baseball jersey!
Thanks Ashley!!
Thank you to Salon Alexander, Beauty Entourage for co-hosting with us! and thank you for the amazing job on hair and makeup!! We are looking forward to working more sessions and weddings with you ladies!!

And thank you to all of the ladies who came out to support us!! we will be planning more fashion shows and we're getting ready to unveil a new surprise! Want to book your own fashion shoot? Let us know!

#4 A Community I Love

2011-01-20T04:30:00.000-08:00

In light of yesterday's post, I have to continue on with the Coventry Regional Farmers' Market. Years ago, I saw a sign about 1/2 mile from my home, in an empty field advertising the Coventry Farmers' Market. Dave & I thought, what the heck, let's check it out - the girls (who were still in the stroller then) might get a kick out of it. We wandered around and thought it was so cool - who would have thought that one day a week, we can get fresh (and I mean FRESH) produce, meats, and other yummies LITERALLY down the street from us!Then I read in the Coventry newsletter that the market was looking for professionals to swap skills for cool discounts (who am I to pass up a good deal?). At that same time, I discovered an old (well, we're not old...our friendship goes back to the stone ages...I mean, grammar school!) friend, Jean Nelson (thanks to Facebook and the ability to post your maiden name to!) who is one of the market masters. She introduced me to Winter Caplanson, my marketing partner in crime! ;)

Ever since that first opening day on June 7, 2009 (oddly enough, it was my birthday too) - I was hooked on going to the market. I felt like the old Greek men who have to go to the coffee shops to play poker or backgammon. I was drawn there. I photographed, I bought, I talked, I reunited with old friends, and made some new ones!

Ever since then, I have become a part of the market. I currently invest in the market financially as a business partner because I believe that you need to give back to something that has given to you. I still photograph the market, but we have taken it a step further - we brought brides to the market to show how brides can shop locally for their wedding; we held a toy drive at holiday time - photographing children and families and accepted payment only with a toy or monetary donation to Rockville Hospital; we did portraits of people with their pets; portraits of grandparents with their grandkids.And what did I get in return? Amazing friendships from a fantastic little community called the Coventry Regional Farmers' Market! I reunited with grammar school friends, met new photographer friends, got addicted to unique pizzas...and saw vendors who worked just like I do - with a smile on their faces, LOVING their "jobs", and welcoming customers to their tiny 10x10 corner of the world!Thank you Coventry Regional Farmers' Market for THE community I love! :)

#49 Your Ideas And My Ideas- How We Play Together

2011-01-19T07:08:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things to do of late - co-marketing! Meet a friend in a similar industry and find a great product to promote together. Win-win situation!

First time I tried it this past year - I met an amazing woman, Winter Caplanson, Market Goddess of the Coventry Regional Farmers' Market (really, that's her official title! She has a shirt and everything!), who in her spare time makes soaps, Sleepy Moon Soaps to be exact. These cute, amazingly smelly, awesome soaps. I asked her what she thought about working together - together we developed Soap Poppers. Winter wraps up her end cuts (the not so perfect ends of the soaps) and packages them with the Parsons Photo label, we named them Soap Poppers (anyone out there know where the name came from? Bonus points for that!), and now I give them as thank you gifts! In return, I am at Winter's beck and call for photos! ;)

Another play together idea is happening RIGHT NOW! Well, tomorrow actually! I am working with Ashley Stone, owner of Salon Alexander and Beauty Entourage (a mobile hair and makeup crew for weddings - how cool is that?) to host a Ladies' Night of Boudoir Fashion Show. Together we're going to show how sexy every woman can feel AND look with these photo shoots!! Ashley is going to talk about hair and makeup and how they can give ladies that perfect bedroom look and Jess and I are going to show how we can photograph ANY woman and make her feel sexy and therefore LOOK sexy!I love the whole idea of "your ideas and my ideas and how we play together" - I welcome anyone who has ideas of how we can work our businesses together to benefit us both! What would you like to see??

#40 Ten Guilty Pleasures

2011-01-18T06:39:00.000-08:00

My Top Ten Guilty Pleasures - not necessarily in order!

1. Soap Operas - most specifically Young & the Restless...I don't know what it is, but I can't stop watching!
2. Pedicures
3. Italian & Greek pastries...can't you tell? ;)4. Facebook - sometimes I just like to gather all the gossip
5. Shoe shopping (that's a given with all women, right?)
6. Grocery shopping alone - I just walk a little bit slower and I love it!
7. Getting my hair done - wish I had more time to do it more often, or my hair dresser came to me!
8. Watching silly kid shows/movies with my kids.
9. Perfume (buying and putting it on)
10. Coach pocketbooks, apparel, etc - I just love Coach!

#1 How I Use Facebook

2011-01-17T07:42:00.000-08:00

I can hear the smiles on this topic...those of you who know me, know that if there isn't a post from me...well, then the world has ended! :) Bert Fonseca of After Hours DJ Entertainment calls me when I claim to take a day off - he laughs because he thinks Facebook will crash without me! ;)

I was against Facebook - I figured who has time to send updates and read what the world was up to. I reluctantly joined in 2008...then I found some classmates from high school...then I found some brides of mine...then I found some vendors...then it just exploded and became a part of my daily routine. (as a matter of a fact, I'm uploading photos as I type! LOL!)

I love Facebook - I admit it! I love reading everyone's updates, seeing other photographers' photos, reading other people's inspirations, woes, etc. I love uploading my photos, tagging my couples, then anxiously waiting for the "likes" and comments to see who liked my favorites and to read the responses. It warms my heart when I get the comments and feedback when my clients like the photos!

I love it because I have become closer with my clients as well - I am reluctant to call them clients because I think of most of my peeps as family. My Facebook "friends" have become such an amazing support network on a personal level. Recently, we have met a lot of health challenges with our 5 year old daughter and the overflowing support and concern of everyone on Facebook has been amazing. I am eternally grateful to that as that support really helped me get through that rough time.

Now, I use Facebook instead of Google...when I get a request for a wedding or portrait session, I check Facebook first to see who I'm emailing. I look up business information on FB - a lot of research can be done!

Look us up! I'm on personally (if you want the personal scoop, send me a friend request) and Parsons Photo has a business page. Maybe we'll see you online!

#63 You Are Here

2011-01-16T05:27:00.000-08:00

How many of you remember that giant red dot on the maps at the malls? With the big words "you are HERE" next to it. I remember my brother and I thought it was the funniest thing in the world - how did they know where we were? And, more importantly, if it showed where I was...how can my brother be at the same exact spot? Our mom didn't find the same amusement in it.

Now, as an adult, I find a slight comfort in the "you are HERE" red dot when I look at the mall maps...or as our culture has matured to - GPS. On our GPS, the "you are here" had become that silly triangle that points you in the right direction. I find comfort in that dot and that arrow because, I figure...they always are pointing me in the right direction!

I like the little red dot or the blue triangle because it seems to ground me...I am HERE. How profound...because I am a planner and I am usually 5 steps ahead of myself, causing myself to be...well, honestly - there. Sometimes that little dot or triangle reminds me that I am here.

Brandy & Kevin - Maternity teasers

2011-01-15T15:04:00.000-08:00

Back in October of 2009, I was blessed to witness and document the wedding of Kevin & Brandy. Thanks to Facebook, we've remained friends! Now, they're expecting their first baby - little Gavin. And I can't wait! ;)

But in the meantime, let's photograph him from the outside!
One of my favorite shots!

How cute is this? Brandy and Jess worked together for this one! Love it and thanks to Jess for the tying trick.

Bubbles, bubbles, and a belly!
This next shot was completely by accident - completely not the look I was looking for...but I LOVE LOVE LOVE the glow around her! THAT'S the pregnancy glow! Love it!!

We had a full series of really hot, sexy shots - and I love one more than the previous...but alas, this blog is typically PG13! But trust me, it was boudoir, prego-style! :) Here's the PG13 shot we can post!

LOVE the necklace Kevin bought Brandy with the baby's birthstone on it!
Jess wins the prize with this one! I LOVE it!! Thanks for being a great sport, Kevin!!
Who said pregnancy isn't sexy? Brandy ROCKING the sexy pose!!
Congratulations, Brandy & Kevin! We are soooo looking forward to meeting little Gavin in February!!

#43 My Day Job Versus My Passion

2011-01-15T07:51:00.000-08:00

This is an easy one! I have three day jobs, which also happen to be my passions! I am a mother, a wife, and a photographer. Sometimes the order changes, sometimes my priorities shift - but I am always a mother, a wife and a photographer.

I am obsessed with my family - I love my husband and kids to death! They are funny, serious, goofy, annoying, snuggable, lovable...I can go on. But they are the center of my universe, my passion. I spend hours researching things we can do together (museums, trips, games), things to avoid (foods, ugh foods...that seems to be our latest...), and other ideas.After Dave & I started dating, I tried my hand at working a "9-5 job" in Corporate America. I worked at United HealthCare, then a prestigious law firm in Hartford. I thought that working in restaurants, events, weddings and retail my entire life, I would welcome a job with "normal" hours. The money was fantastic and I was able to sit for long periods of time...and I was bored senseless. The insurance business was copy and paste...I was confused as to why I needed a college degree to copy and paste so I went to the law firm. That was even worse...I needed two degrees to type letters to the newspaper because an attorney was mad that they delivered while he was on vacation (no lie, I really had to do it!!). BORED!

I came back to weddings and made my way back to something that intrigued me since I was little...photography.

I love photographing my family - the way my husband interacts with our kids, our kids alone, hubby alone. My family intrigues me photographically.Which brings me to my next passion. Photography. I don't photograph all the time - I can't do it every day. As a matter of a fact, I left my cameras in their case for a week between Christmas and New Years. I do things like that to keep the passion alive! I love grabbing my kids with a silly idea and throwing them into the studio and photographing them. I love working weddings and when I tell a bride she looks hot - she does! I love the crazy wedding hours of leaving the house a bundle of nerves and coming home 14 hours later with every inch of my body hurting. I love it all!!So the difference between my day job and my passion? There is none!! :D

#23 My Mother is On Facebook

2011-01-14T06:04:00.000-08:00

Here it is - the kickoff of the Chris Brogan challenge! (click on the label link for more details)

My mother is on Facebook - yes she is! My 62 year old hip immigrant mother has joined the community of online social media! I think it's pretty cool - she says she does it to keep up with my pics of the kids, but I think she realized that she can get gossip quicker! ;)

Seriously, my mother is one of the most technologically challenged people in the world, but she checks her email and her Facebook about once or twice a month. Then she'll call me to tell me what she read or comment on my pictures. "Mom, you can comment on the actual photo" I tell her...her response is "I am, that's why I called you" - makes sense, right? ;)

So if you're on Facebook and see a "hi" or "love you" comment from Alexa Nanos, you know it's my mom! :) Love you, Mommy!!

Here's my mom & dad with my kids at their piano recital last year!

Blog Posts

2011-01-13T11:53:00.000-08:00

Every so often, I'll peek back at my posts and see what I have to say. Lo and behold, 99% of my posts are photos - ok, pretty obvious...but I have more to say! Just ask anyone who's my friend on Facebook! ;)

I saw a Tweet from Chris Brogan with a link back to his blog and it was a challenge to 100 blog topics. I scanned them and figured they looked pretty easy to cover! So here it goes!

Here is the 100 - mainly so I can look back and refer to it as I work through the list! I am looking forward to opening up about more of these topics, as well as researching more!

Here’s 100 Blog/Podcast Topics I Hope YOU Write:

1 How I Use Facebook
2 Ways I Embrace My Audience
3 Should My Town Use Social Media?
4 A Community I Love
5 Technology That Empowers Me
6 How Flickr Did it Right
7 How Best to Comment on a Corporate Blog
8 Ways to Save a Bad Time at a Conference
9 How I Find Blogging Ideas
10 Somebody Has to Say It
11 My Children Will Do it Differently
12 How Schools Could Use Social Media
13 The Best Parts of Marketing
14 Presentation Skills for a New Conversation
15 How I Find Time to Make Media
16 Empower Your Best Customers
17 After the Event- Carrying the Conversation Forward
18 Just Jump Into Podcasting- Heres How
19 My Community and How You Can Engage It
20 Twitter Jaiku Pownce Facebook- And Then What
21 Making a Miniseries
22 If I Were an Advertiser Today
23 My Mother is On Facebook
24 Does a Big Brand Need You
25 Books I Want to Write
26 Serving the Deep Niches- How I Do It
27 How Women Use Social Media
28 A Hard Look at My Media Habits
29 If I Were a Television Producer
30 Social Media Marketing vs Traditional Marketing
31 Elements of a Marketing Campaign
32 Social Media Campaigns are NOT Traditional Campaigns
33 Idea Making and How I Make Something
34 What I Spend Money On
35 Do Rock Stars Need Social Media Strategies
36 How I Use My Website
37 Book Shopping- Buy These Books
38 MTV Changed the World in the 80s- Here is What Comes Next
39 How I Process Blogs and What I Do With All That Info
40 Ten Guilty Pleasures
41 The Internet Application I Havent Seen
42 If I Worked for a Venture Capital Firm
43 My Day Job Versus My Passion
44 The Difference Between Fark and Truemors
45 Fixing Conferences
46 Making Marketplaces for Media Makers
47 When I Feel Frustrated
48 Branding Strategies I Use
49 Your Ideas And My Ideas- How We Play Together
50 Friends I Cant Wait to Meet

51 The Art of Chaos
52 Telling My Boss About Social Media
53 Could I Quit My Day Job
54 When to Cut Back on Web Habits
55 Breaking Down My Favorite Blog
56 Explaining Social Media to Your Chamber of Commerce
57 Non-Internet Equivalents to Internet Tools I Use
58 Considering Media for the Rest of the Globe
59 Twitter is Too Simple- Twitter is Just Right
60 The Future of Podcasting
61 Video Made Simple
62 Facebook Applications I Love
63 You Are Here
64 Blogging Tactics- How to Keep it Fresh
65 I Want to Brag A Minute
66 Who Says What About Your Brand
67 Tools for Blogging
68 Wordpress Plugins I Use And Why
69 Media Topics That Need More Coverage
70 Comments versus Blog Posts
71 How I Drive Traffic to My Site
72 News- Is it Useful and How I Might Fix It
73 Which TV Network Gets Videoblogging and PodCasting
74 Franchising My Media
75 Handling Critics
76 My Audio Tricks
77 Ning Sites I Like and Why
78 Controlling My Brand
79 Sharing and Contributing
80 How Twitter Improved My Blog
81 Email After Twitter
82 Facebook Video Improved My Social Network
83 Letting Go
84 Downtime- What I Do Offline to Recharge
85 How I Went From Very Shy to Less Shy
86 The RIGHT Number to Track for Podcasting
87 PodCamp Has to Change
88 Shaking Things Up
89 Joining A Network- Things to Consider
90 Newspapers and How I Would Change Them
91 Interview With a Veteran
92 The Countries of My Social Media World
93 Giving it Away
94 Consulting Strategies for Social Media Experts
95 Turning Media into a Business Card
96 Podcasting on a Budget
97 For Every Excuse a New Strategy
98 Just When I Think I Am Done
99 Buying Gear- My Shopping Tips for Podcasters
100 When is Free Better- When Not

Boudoir Session

2011-01-13T10:14:00.000-08:00

Before the holidays, I met up with this pretty lady for her boudoir session. I am in love with the ideas of fun props (BTW, this is my hubby's guitar as her man's guitar was too distinguishable!)!!

Are you ready to schedule your session? :)

Becca & PJ Wedding Day Teasers

2011-01-09T06:55:00.000-08:00

Jess & I kicked off 2011 with probably our most fun wedding ever! Becca & PJ were married in the First Baptist Church in Manchester, then we partied like rock stars in the snow at the Publick House in Sturbridge, MA. Thank you to Helena Willis of Perfect Princess for coordinating and flowers.

I love it when Jess and I capture the same image but get two different feels to it! Here's my shot...
and here's Jess's!

OK, so I got a little silly while we were waiting! It made you smile, didn't it? ;)

What a fun bridal party!!
Taylor & Sophia were so shy around the camera...yeah right...they got their own little photo shoot!
Here's one of my favorite shots of Sophia

Becca had to get caffeinated up for the night ahead!!

PJ was rewriting his vows...I like to think he was writing a song...Jess said he was writing his vows...what do you think? ;)
LOVE the Chucks!
Great shot by Jess!

The anticipation is usually the toughest for the grooms...that moment RIGHT before the ceremony begins
And here is the moment PJ saw Becca...she literally left him breathless...it still gives me chills!!

Here is the couple's prayer from my angle
and the couple's prayer from Jess's angle
I love Becca and PJ - not just because they're so cute and cuddly and we really need to put them in our pockets...but probably mainly because they humor my whims! While sitting down to dinner with Jess and the DJ, I announced that it would be super cool if they went out and did snow angles. Most of the times, Jess thinks my crazy ideas and awesome too (that's why I keep her around! LOL!), but this time she gave me a funny look. That just fueled my desire to get the shot!!

We worked with the Publick House and made it happen!! Becca & PJ's eyes LIT UP when I proposed the idea to them!!! Check out these photos in between our laughing!!

How cool is that hear shaped snowflake Jess caught? :)
I think this is one of my favs! "IT'S FLIPPING COLD!!"

A prize goes to the person (who was not in attendance at the wedding) who can tell me what PJ has in his hands!! ;)

I had a little fun with my Lensbaby last night too!!

The paparazzi was out in full swing!!

Rocking the going away outfits!

Congratulations, Becca & PJ! Thanks for an amazing night and setting the bar high for the rest of the year!!

Don't forget to leave comments - it's a new year and that means new votes for photo of the year!! :)

Optical Illusions

2011-01-07T14:57:00.000-08:00

I love that my kids dig art - I really do! I think it's amazing when a 6 and 5 year old get excited about "seeing it" in a picture (painting/drawing/photo)!

Our new topic is optical illusions. Evanthea (my 5 year old) and I poured over photo after photo - she begged me for more after figuring it out. It's no surprise - her favorite artist is Salvadore Dali and she wants to be a photographer (and a dentist...practical idea, if you ask me).

I mentioned to them that I thought it would be cool if we tried to do the Rubin's vase photo with the two of them. They really wanted to try. I explained it would be hard to do - they were willing to sit still to get it right. We came close (photo above) - I still want to try it again when we have time to slick their hair down and get it right...but I believe things happen for a reason - we were destined to do that photo shoot because I got my favorite shot of them as sisters (see next photo)!
And here's just a silly outtake! Evanthea (right) said she can make a better vase by scowling! :)
We're going to try again! Hopefully soon! :)

Photo of the Year 2010

2011-01-04T14:53:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Toni & Jim for the photo of the year!! They receive their choice of size of this image!!

want to be next year's photo of the year? The criteria is: comments on the blog, comments on Facebook, sales, votes on the proofing page, and the photographers make the final decision.

congrats!!

Family Portraits ring in the new year!

2011-01-02T15:12:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! January is off and running!! I started the new year off with a family portrait session!

I enjoyed spending the morning with Nancy and her siblings, spouses and niece and nephews! I think they enjoyed watching Avatar more than getting their photo taken on New Year's morning! But I like to think it was the photos! ;)

Happy New Year!! Thanks for sharing your morning with me! :)

My Year in Review 2010 - Diane

2010-12-30T14:58:00.000-08:00

2010...has come and gone. I remember thinking that this year is not going to be good. I have little superstitions about how my business year is going to be. One of which is the date of the first wedding of the year: the earlier the date, the better the year. I panicked when I saw May 8 as our first date....May...not January, not April...nothing, nada, zilch. First time in I can't tell you how long that I started so late.

But that just opened a door for me. I took the leap and went to my first WPPI Conference in Las Vegas. I spent one week away from my family and soaked up everything imaginable to the wedding and portrait photographers' world. I met some wonderful new friends from different parts of the country, participated in some really fun shoots, and even won Kevin Kubota's alphabet challenge.

Here's Kevin Kubota during closing ceremonies (yes, I was in front row of 2000 photographers!):These are some shots from the Trash the Dress sessions in Vegas:

Wow...that's not a bad way to start off the new year!

"Maybe 2010 will go against my usual superstitions..." I mused.

It did!

Thank you to everyone who has touched our lives in 2010! I have taken every experience as a learning experience - whether it was good, bad, or indifferent; I feel like I have grown considerably this past year! Everyone that has crossed paths with me this year has done so for a reason and I have learned and grown from all of our experiences - thank you to those who have stayed in my life and probably a bigger thank you to those who have moved on, I learned many lessons this year.

2010 also brought a new addition to the Parsons Photo "family" - we built a studio! We now have an awesome studio so we can accommodate many of our sessions and requests! It's been so popular, we haven't had a chance to officially welcome everyone with an open house! :)

Here's my wrap up, award winning style! ;)

The Most Talked About Wedding All Around - Scoring the most comments on their engagement session at Max's Oyster Bar and both ceremonies (JP ceremony and reception at St Clement's Castle and Muslim Nikah at Hartford's Downtown Marriott) - Melissa & Kevin!

Best Food at an Event - Hands down - Dave, Jess and I are all unanimous on this one! Toni & Jim's Wedding at Salem's Cross Inn. We actually sat down and finished our plates...and even thought about how we can score some more! ;) Excellent food! (They rank #2 in all over...Pooja & Will's Indian Cuisine still ranks #1...sorry!)
THE Couple We Want to Fold Up and Keep in Our Pockets - Dava & Seth...they're just toooooo darned cute! Separately, they take on opposite personalities but together they become this amazing personality! LOVE!!! :)

My Favorite Bride - Brooke...because she's normal, beautiful, sexy, and trusts me when I tell her that!Best "Force Diane Out Of Her Comfort Zone" Shoot - Lake Compounce media photo shoot by far! I loved having to think way the heck outside of the box and shoot commercial - it's not a career I would pursue, but I enjoyed it for the day! (still can't post photos from the actual shoot, but here's one of my kiddos ENJOYING the roller coaster!!)
Photographer Lookalike - Toni's brother, Mike and my hubby Dave! :)

Coolest Prop At A Wedding - Marie & Jere's 3rd set...they had bridesmaids, groomsmen, and Mustangs. What more can I say about photographing a bunch of Mustangs at a wedding? :)Coolest Serendipitous Moment - Photographing the 250th Engineering of the National Guard's return from Iraq. I had so many connections to this Unit, it was awesome! Read the full story with all of the connections here.
Best Wedding - and I know she's scanning the entire post looking for her name...and she knows it's her wedding...Amanda & Todd's Wedding. I have to say that their wedding was our favorite because Amanda put me through all sorts of torture with her checklist - but I took her challenges head on and came up with some really cool shots! So, we thank her...even though I had to shut her up! ;) We still love them!Most inspiring moment - Joe McNally's seminar on lighting. Didn't know it at the time - but after I sat and chewed over it...I had my "a-ha" moment. Thanks Joe!

Greatest Tearjerker - Hands down, Toni & Jim's wedding. Sobbing...we were sobbing. Toni lost her father and brother in a car crash and the way they were honored at the wedding....let's just say I'm surprised any photo was in focus I was bawling so hard! Here's Toni with her brother Mike during their brother/sister dance honoring their dad:

My greatest gift - has been a gift from Bert Fonseca, of After Hours DJ Entertainment. He introduced me to Jess, my right hand (she's not just my right hand gal, she's my right hand...I wouldn't be able to function without her...well, maybe golf since I golf left handed...but you get the point). Jess has been invaluable to me this past year - thank you, Jess for helping me in a pinch, remembering my cameras, keeping me in line, being my light model/meter, taking flack, stepping up, being an amazing photographer, and just being an awesome friend!
Best Reactions from Spectators Shoot - Opening Day at the Coventry Regional Farmers' Market. Three of our brides Trashed their Dresses! We had so much fun showcasing the fact that brides can shop local (we found some great favor ideas) and then we used only local items for the trash the dress portion. It was a lot of fun!Best Reaction to A Boudoir Shoot - Kevin...hands down. Fortunately, Dan caught his real reaction on video and it went along something like "forget the ceremony, let's get back to the hotel..."! ;) Love it!!

Most Popular Prop - DOGS! This year dogs made it most in our shoots! Check out some of these!

Most organized (albeit a little bit crazy) Bride - Kate and her BINDER of checklists! ;) I love Kate and her organization skills - she's one of my favorite brides and I probably would have hired her to work with me as a wedding planner! But as a photographer, she sent me into a little panic attack with a binder! ;)But we love Kate and Dane and their amazingly beautiful wedding! They still get a big 2010 shout out! And I'm also going to rank them with the largest bridal party of the year...and the MOST cooperative! Thanks guys! :)
Thank you everyone who helped make 2010 amazing! I wish I could put you all here but I would be writing for the entire year again! (Check out previous posts for more details!)

Happy 2011!!

Dava and Seth's Wedding Day Photos

2010-12-20T05:30:00.000-08:00

Piano recital for my babes!

2010-12-15T09:21:00.000-08:00

My previous post was a brag about my kids' performances at school. This one is a brag of their performance at their piano recital! (and yes, it all happened on the same weekend)

This year, they each chose Christmas songs: Alexandra played "Away In A Manger" and Evanthea played "Jingle Bells"
Can you tell who's been paying attention to Mommy's posing tips? ;)
While we waited, Evanthea wanted to try some fun reflection shots! A girl after my own heart!
Evanthea exercised her creative right to arranging her own piece...ok, so she forgot to do the repeat...but she turned to everyone and whispered "I'm done". It's a good thing she's got the cute thing working for her! ;)

Alexandra & Evanthea's teacher, Miss Paula, has two very talented daughters - who also performed for the recital.

congratulations to everyone who performed!

Thanks Miss Paula! :)

My kiddos sing their hearts out!

2010-12-15T08:34:00.000-08:00

Dave & I are so proud of our girls! At ages 5 & 6, they have this amazing confidence where they can step up in front of a full room and perform! So far, they both have participated in three recitals (this year's will be posted soon!) for piano, Christmas and Spring concerts for school for the past 2 years, and Alexandra has had a reading part during the mass for All Saints' Day.

We're just bursting with pride!! here they are at their school Christmas Concert!

Aidan, Catherine and Luke - their best friends!
We joke that Alexandra and Aidan are going to get married - I'm guessing with this pose that they're ready for their photos! ;)

Holiday Portraits at Coventry Farmers' Market

2010-12-13T17:07:00.000-08:00

Sunday, Jess & I had a fantastic opportunity to photograph at the Coventry Farmers' Market once again! We were asked to do winter portraits of the Friends of the Markets...as well as their Friends too!

We decided to step it up - we waived our sitting fee and asked people to donate a toy or game to the Rockville Hospital Emergency Room (see explanation blog post here). For people who did not bring a game, we accepted monetary donations and we'll do the shopping! We met our goal of filling the bag AND we hadn't made the shopping trip yet! Thank you EVERYONE for your amazing generosity!!

Our first shoot was such a big celeb, we couldn't bring ourselves to ask for the toy...thanks Bert! We were honored that you smiled for us - and you really do look the same in person as you do on TV! ;)

These two had us laughing! I told them to show Jess how they eat their gingerbread men...
Everyone who joined the market as a Friend was put into a raffle. Violet, of Hurricane Farms, was the lucky name picker!

Violet was just too cute!!

I think this is one of my favs - Jess caught it while wandering around and I played around with the color a bit and viola! :)
Here's Lila, of Farm to Hearth - the.cutest.baby.ever. She cracked us up because she would go from serious to cracking up in a second!!!

Little Jacob - how cute is that hat?
Dot (in the middle) is another photog - nice to see her IN FRONT of the camera!

A rare shot - getting Market Master Winter and her hubby Nick to sit AND take a photo! ;)

(and a little silliness too!!)
Laura, another photog (obvi)! ;)

Our little Lila again! She reminds me of a living Cabbage Patch Doll - only cuter!!!

Violet - it's such a tie over who was the most photographed of the day, her or Lila!!
Violet with mom, Erica! I love the real smiles - no "cheese" here! ;)
Here are my two friends, cracking us up again!
Thank you everyone for coming out and donating! We had a wonderful time and we cannot wait to deliver the toys to the ER!!! Happy Holidays!!

I'll be posting the images soon!

Nancy & Dave Wedding Day Photos

2010-12-07T08:52:00.000-08:00

Holiday Marathon Session December 12

2010-12-01T05:53:00.001-08:00

December 12 is going to be the only holiday marathon session for this month! Here's what we're going to offer:

We are asking for a donation in lieu of a session fee. We ask that you bring a toy, game, or prizes that we can donate to the Rockville Emergence Room. A few months ago, our 5 year old was at Rockville Hospital with a broken arm. The nurses were so nice to her and very apologetic because they didn't have many things for her to do - they had some markers and coloring print outs, but that's it. This year we would like to replenish their box and try to relieve the stress of other kids waiting in the emergency room. Some ideas are: hand held games like mini pinball, puzzle books, play dough, crayons, silly bands, matchbox cars, army men, bouncy balls, stickers.

We will be scheduling 1/2 hour sessions and they are first come, first serve! :) Email me at info@parsonsphoto.org for your timeslot!

Happy Holidays!

Holiday Marathon Teasers

2010-11-28T12:17:00.000-08:00

Day Two of our Holiday Marathon session! Thankfully, Jessica joined me in these sessions - we did an awful lot of running around, chasing after props...and munchkins! ;)

First up, Angela and her little brother, Joey. I first met Angela a year an a half ago for her six month shoot, then again this summer for her grandmother's birthday. It's been such a wonderful journey watching her grow! And now meeting her new 3 week old brother!!

One of my fav shots of the day!
I love when babies show their personalities. This photo makes me laugh because we tried the "nice" side of the stocking and he fussed and mussed...I switched it to "naughty" and he started cooing! ;)
One of my favs of the day!
How awesome is this baby cocoon Jess made? I love it!!

We had a tough time finding something Angela liked...we held her attention with the boxes and sticks! that was 6 seconds (2 seconds longer than the trees!)!!

Next up is 6 month Logan! I photographed his parents' engagement session back in February of 2009 (unfortunately, we were already booked for their wedding date...but this little munchkin was the next best thing!!) and now had the fun chance to meet little Logan!

These next two are my favs!!

Our next fun munchkin is Evelyn - we met Evelyn and her mom at the Coventry Farmers' Market for portraits. We had so much fun with Evelyn then and had even more fun today!

This is one of my favs

Thank you everyone for a fun marathon day!

Did you miss scheduling your appointment? No need to worry - we're offering more in December!

Becca & PJ's engagement pics are posted!

2010-11-27T11:50:00.001-08:00

Holiday Marathon Teasers - Mackenzie and her parents

2010-11-22T17:43:00.000-08:00

Mackenzie's Mom & Dad were married in 2009 and I had the amazing opportunity to photograph it! I was so excited to see them again (and see how much Mackenzie has grown!!) and share this fun time of year with them!

As you can see, we had a really tough time getting Mackenzie to pose! LOL! Isn't she adorable?
She was telling me jokes and cracking herself up...I LOVE IT!!!
I'm not showing Mom & Dad so they can save their pics for the holiday card!! ;)

Holiday Marathon Teasers - Kara & Will

2010-11-22T17:40:00.000-08:00

Kara and Will are one of our 2011 couples - I am so glad I had a chance to photograph them for their holiday session! I am looking forward to the next 10 months of sessions! :P

Holiday Marathon Teasers - Katie, Richard, Emily & Ed

2010-11-22T17:36:00.000-08:00

I love Facebook - it's such a fun way to meet people who later become clients and friends! And we also get to see who knows whom and how many times we all cross paths!

Take Ed - I've seen him at two different weddings and he came to his family portraits this weekend! LOVE IT!! (and I love his hats!!)

Holiday Marathon Teasers - Amanda & Todd

2010-11-22T17:31:00.000-08:00

Our October 1, 2010 cuties returned for more punishment! ;) Amanda and Todd are celebrating their first Christmas by coming in for a photo shoot!

Love these guys - mainly because they humor my crazy ideas! ;)

Becca & PJ's engagement teasers

2010-11-22T17:18:00.000-08:00

Today I met Becca & PJ down at the Wadsworth Mansion in Middletown - I know, you've heard it before....but it's my favorite place! Not just because it's beautiful, stunning and so much fun to photograph. But because of the awesome ladies that work there, Deborah and Kristy....

You see, we had originally planned to hit Sturbridge Village for this session but Becca saw the weather report...and it didn't look good! Deborah & Kristy allowed us to sneak in and grab some indoor (and outdoor too) shots at the mansion!! Thanks ladies!!

This photo is very Twilight-y to me....
I think this one is my fav!

LOVE LOVE LOVE it when couples OFFER to jump up in window sills!!!

It's a good thing we happened to be in backyard when we were...we were able to save this wonderful vase from falling!! Or was it really? ;)

Congratulations Becca & PJ! We'll be seeing you real soon! :)

Brooke & Kris's wedding day photos

2010-11-19T19:01:00.001-08:00

Dava and Seth Wedding Teasers

2010-11-13T08:02:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Dava and Seth! Last night Jessica and I joined them and 350 of their closest family and friends! :)

Thank you to the other amazing vendors that helped make this day amazing:
St. Matthew's Church, New Haven
Upscale Events, New Haven
Eileen's Exclusive Floral
Woodwinds, Branford
DJ Van Vader
Brettnee Nelson (makeup artist)

I loved Dava's bridesmaids - they had me laughing from my first step in the door. Between the poses, the smiles, and the dirty looks! LOL! Yes, we have a self portrait with a dirty look! LOL!

Dava was simply stunning
Check these girls out - seriously, the FIRST bridal party where I said "smile pretty" and we got pretty smiles...then as soon as I said, "give me sass"...
...they ROCKED it!

What else can you do on a beautiful day in New Haven with a bunch of beautiful girls? HIT THE STREETS!!

Love the detail shots of the guys! ;)

I tell all my couples that my absolute favorite moment of a wedding is the split second when they first see each other and make eye contact. It gives me chills every time to share that intimate moment with them!!

The Pastor was discussing their first kiss...
The reception had a Paris theme - we loved every little detail, right down to the Fleur de Lis favors!

Woodwinds provided us with a magical backdrop for the VERY COLD formals! :)

Erika & Torrence Flowers of Upscale Events - the magic behind the day!

I went nuts with all of the uplighting! it was so cool!
The absolute craziest introduction I have ever seen!!! Dava and Seth made their way through their guests but were so surrounded, there was more energy than if the President showed up!!!!
Dava struck a pose every time the flashes burst!

Check out the kicks on the groom!

I knew Seth couldn't stay away from the mic! check out their engagement session for deets!

Congratulations, Dava & Seth! :)

Gina & Adam's Engagement Pics

2010-11-11T18:50:00.001-08:00

Devyn's photos are posted

2010-11-11T17:05:00.000-08:00

Tracie & John's Engagement Pics are posted

2010-11-11T15:48:00.000-08:00

Jamie and James Engagement proofs

2010-11-10T13:10:00.000-08:00

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Inspiration through a broken arm

2010-11-08T06:22:00.000-08:00

Odd post title, isn't it?
Well, some of you may know, my 5 year old daughter recently broke her arm. We have been visiting the orthopedics's office quite regularly and Evanthea decided she wanted to go for X Rays by herself - so I waited in the room and started flipping through a magazine.

Real Simple magazine to be exact. I stopped at this page and stared. I love it! I love the intricacy and the simplicity at the same time. So I grabbed my phone and snapped a shot of the page to ponder...
I wanted to do something like it. But who brings a flamingo to a wedding? Or where can I get one in Coventry?

So I did the next best thing - I used the concept and applied it to my hot boudoir session last night! I think this is my favorite boudoir shot ever. Thank you Real Simple magazine; thank you to the creative photographer who thought of it (wish I could give full credit - but it's the November issue of Real Simple); thank you Dr. Bissell's office for having this magazine in the office; and I guess this is the silver lining to the weekly X Rays! ;)

Sara & John Wedding Photos

2010-11-06T11:05:00.000-07:00

Amanda & Todd Wedding Photos

2010-11-05T18:26:00.001-07:00

It's Black Friday - all month!!

2010-11-04T14:33:00.002-07:00

Yes, you read that right - no, it's not a typo!!!

Every Friday this month we're going to have some crazy sales for the holidays! What's the catch? We'll be announcing the deals on Facebook and Twitter only and they will be for that day only.

Here's the fine print - cannot combine with any other deal or discount, item must be ordered that day only and payment must be received by PayPal on that day or by check within 3 days.

Email me (info@parsonsphoto.org) if you have any questions! Otherwise - enjoy the deals!!!

Katie & Berk's Wedding Day Photos

2010-11-03T16:29:00.001-07:00

Nancy & Dave Wedding Day Teasers

2010-10-31T05:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Jess & I had a chance to have some fun with a really fun couple, Nancy & Dave! It was a beautiful crisp fall morning...so OF COURSE we had to grab some shots outside!

Vendors:
Reception Site - Tower Ridge Country Club, Simsbury
Ceremony - Church of St. Timothy, West Hartford
Cake - Cakes by Susan
Entertainment - After Hours DJ Entertainment

Jess caught this great shot of Nancy's dad waiting for her limo to arrive at the church.

Teagon, my little flower girl friend, was being super efficient by picking up the rose petals during the ceremony! She was so stealthy...making sure the priests didn't see her. She just wasn't watching out for the photographer behind her! ;)

After I caught this shot, I showed it to Nancy. She thought I was showing her a sample of another wedding...then it dawned on her who it was! She asked "is that us??"! I think her shock of realization was one of the cutest moments! ;)
So sweet!

We had this really pretty rogue cloud in the sky - it was so cool!

I was in love with this cake!!

Nancy and her mom getting down on the dancefloor!

Like father....
Like son!!! ;)

Congratulations Nancy & Dave!!!

Tracie & John's Engagement Teasers

2010-10-24T09:11:00.000-07:00

For those of you living in New England - you know this weekend was a tad chilly! Especially Saturday morning...at 10AM! We had originally planned John & Tracie's engagement session to be outdoors....2 1/2 minutes of chatting outside, we quickly changed our plans!

We were so thankful that John and Tracie were so open to new suggestions - we had a chance to check out the new Marriott, the Convention Center, then make our way outside to Adrian's Landing in Downtown Hartford!

A lot of times we're asked why we always have two photographers. And here's why! While Jess caught this cute closeup of John & Tracie...
I was able to catch this shot!

I love this next shot because there's so much going on....it's like Where's Waldo meets Salvidor Dali!
one of my favs!
Again - here's what Jess saw
and here's what I saw! Pretty cool, isn't it?

Congratulations John & Tracie!

Gina & Adam's Engagement Teasers

2010-10-24T08:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon, Jess & I had a fun time with Gina & Adam at Elizabeth Park! We did find some flowers lurking around and we asked them nicely to smile! ;)

How cute are these two? :)

Jess rocking the reflection shots again! ;)

Congratulations Gina & Adam! Thanks for the fun afternoon!

Dava & Seth Engagement Proofs

2010-10-24T08:11:00.000-07:00

Check out Dava & Seth's engagement pics! Click on photo for link!

Holiday Shoots & Vineyard

2010-10-17T17:20:00.000-07:00

This morning, we had the first in our series of marathon holiday shoots...well, today ended up being a mini marathon due to the crazy viruses going around!

But we still had a chance to hang with the AH. DOR. ABLE. Mr. Liam. He is so beyond cute, I couldn't stand it! And he LOVES having his photo taken! And boy did Jess & I take advantage of that!!

This is all we're going to show you because Mommy & Daddy want Christmas cards out of this! ;)
And of course, what's a holiday shoot without my two little ones worming their way into the studio!!
We had a lot of fun with reflections! Can you find me and Jess? And can you tell who took the photo?
Then we decided to have some fun with flashes!!
After our engagement session at Cassidy Hill Vineyard, Dave and my girls came to meet us for a little hang out time!! The girls enjoyed some Hosmer soda and Dave, Jess & I enjoyed an amazing Reisling from Cassidy Hill. It was FANTASTIC!!

After a couple of glasses, I grabbed Jess's camera and had some fun!! (yes, I admit it, I used a Nikon...had no clue what I was doing...but used one!!)

It was so windy, we almost lost Dave!!
And yes, that's Jess at the bottom of that glass! ;)
If you're interested in one of our marathon holiday sessions, please contact us at info@parsonsphoto.org Thanks!

Jamie & Jim's Engagement session

2010-10-17T17:01:00.000-07:00

Cuteness to the Nth degree...that's how I describe them! Jamie & Jim are HUGE wine fans (especially CT wines!) - their wedding will be at Saltwater Vineyard in September 2011; so we thought a vineyard would be a great location for their engagement session!

Initially, we had the studio booked out all day long for holiday sessions and Jamie and Jim (reluctantly) agreed to tag along at the end and wait for the backdrop to ...well, drop!! :)

We had a couple of cancellations this morning due to illnesses and one phone call and 10 minutes of brainstorming - we ended up checking out Cassidy Hill Vineyard right here in Coventry!!

They were so welcoming (even though some thought I was with the NY Times and Jess was the Hartford Courant - I'm not kidding! We were asked!!) to us and gave us some great ideas and fun spots to shoot!

This next pic is my fav ring shot!

LOVE this shot Jess got of the barn!!

And look at the sparkle of Jamie's ring! ;)

Another one of my favs! LOVE the sky!

And the grapes were very photogenic! ;)

Congratulations Jamie & Jim! we're so glad the stars aligned for you and were able to share the afternoon with you!!

Dava & Seth Engagement Session

2010-10-16T12:17:00.000-07:00

Jess & I had a fun morning on this windy morning with Dava & Seth. We got to see a part of their lives that (I think) is one of the most intimate in a couple's journey together - we went to where they met! They met at Trinity College when Seth was a junior and Dava was just a freshman! ;)

The cool thing about the first pic is the hand of the clock are pointing to their wedding date - can you figure it out?

I was introduced to Seth and Dava by their wedding planner, Erika Flowers of Upscale Events. Erika is an old friend of mine going way back (no, I am NOT saying anything about her age...we've just been friends for a LONG time!) - so far back to when I was a wedding planner too! :) I was thrilled that not only did Erika bring us this adorably amazing couple, but that I have an opportunity to work with Erika!

Jess & I had sooooooo much fun...and I think Seth & Dava had a little bit of fun too! ;)

The chapel on campus was amazing!

Seth wanted to take some photos at the radio station, as he used to be the station manager. But little did we know, they were going to be guest speakers! It was really cool that they were interviewed as alums and asked about their current careers and finding jobs.

Dava was a little reluctant to go on air (Seth? Well, let's just say some old habit don't wear off too quickly!!) but look at what a natural she is!!
Yes, they really have LP's! I was in heaven! :)

Then we hit downtown! Can't get enough of the arch!

Congratulations Dava & Seth!! Looking forward to your wedding next month!! :)

Patrena & Carlton's Wedding Day Proofs

2010-10-14T09:09:00.000-07:00

Please note that the proofs are password protected at the request of the couple. It is our policy not to give out the password - you must contact the couple directly to obtain.

Brooke & Kris's wedding day teasers

2010-10-10T20:32:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Brooke & Kris - one of the many that chose 10-10-10 as their wedding date...but I think there's more to the date. Kris told me that it's the binary code for 21, which is....oh heck, I'm not even going to pretend I knew what he was talking about! :)

But anyway, here's to one of our most fun couples! I absolutely love the first photo of Brooke - she' so incredibly sexy and gorgeous!! And the next shot...well, that's the way Kris is too!!

Look at that light surrounding Brooke...I would guess that her grandmother was there to guide her through the day

on the floor is Brooke's bouquet, which was fashioned from her grandmother's Missile from 1948.

And here is the inside of Brooke's grandmother's missile. Breathtaking!
Jess & I were flipping around looking for something really cool to incorporate in a shot. we realized that in 1948, October 10 also fell on a Sunday. How cool is that?

Love this shot!
My friend Mikey...love that he was actually listening to us with some fun shots!! (does he give lessons to my kids??)
Michelle - this shot is for you! ;)
I sooo need this sign for my office...home...all of the above!!

When I first met Kris & Brooke, they told me the story of their first date at Au Bon Pain (there's a cute story there, believe it or not!!) - I wanted them to book right there JUST so I could get these next shots! :)

Thanks to New Haven's traffic for helping us out...or not... ;)

Congratulations, Brooke & Kris! Thank you so much for including us in on your day!!! <3

Mikayla's Photo Booth Photos

2010-10-08T13:53:00.000-07:00

Please photo below to view the photos!

Please note that we do not give out the password - you must contact the host of the party to obtain. We are obligated by contract to post these photos with a password. Thank you!

Amanda & Todd's Wedding Trailer

2010-10-08T05:14:00.001-07:00

Katie & Berk's Wedding Trailer

2010-10-07T16:10:00.000-07:00

My favorite color

2010-10-07T06:14:00.000-07:00

My favorite color is blue. All shades of blue - the waters of the Mediterranean, the flag of Greece, all 19 of the Crayola blues, my husband's eyes, Tiffany's...you name it, I love it!

But I do have to say that there is one shade of blue that will make me stop what I'm doing and enjoy that breathless moment. It's the color of the sky right after dusk. The photo above was captured right after that moment but it still shows the color. To me - the world stops for the slit second that the sky is that color, I take a deep breath and smile. Then the world continues to turn and the sky fades to black.

I believe it's called "midnight blue" in the real world - but I call it my blue.

Boudoir Bride revealed!

2010-10-04T18:09:00.000-07:00

So we're finally revealing the lips at our latest boudoir marathon!

Amanda married her love, Todd, this past Friday and gave me the thumbs up to post some teasers and to tag her lips FINALLY!! :) Here is a sample from that shoot!

One of my favs - love the sultry look with the blind lighting!!

Here's the full photo of Amanda with her lips!
Another one of my favs!

Congratulations to Amanda & Todd on their amazing wedding on Friday! We took some fab photos of Amanda and presented Todd with one photo before the ceremony...then we gave him the CD of everything! ;) Enjoy your honeymoon, you two! ;)

Amanda & Todd's Wedding Teasers

2010-10-01T21:59:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Amanda & Todd! Married tonight in the rain! :)

I love the rain - it makes for challenging shots! The first photo and the one below I think are my favorites from the night!

This is what happens when we try to take serious photos at the end of the night...we tend to get a little silly! ;)

Congratulations! I'll post more while on your honeymoon!!

Happy 5th Birthday, Evanthea!

2010-09-29T06:21:00.001-07:00

Once people learn that I have small children, the first question asked is "how do they handle you working weddings?". I always answer that they were born into the business and don't know anything else! I owned my wedding businesses before I was pregnant with my oldest, I worked up until 3 weeks before I had Alexandra (yes, I was a house!) and 2 weeks before I had Evanthea. See, they chose the busiest time to be born for the children of a wedding vendor...Alexandra was born in May and Evanthea was born in September! ;)

Birthdays are huge to little kids and I don't take that away from mine. They get their fun themed parties, family time, special dinners, and (of course) presents!! It's just sometimes we have to schedule around Mommy's weddings!!

Every year they pick out their own theme of party. This year, Evanthea chose Wizard of Oz

Here she is at birth!
I think this is my favorite photo. Ever. Evanthea was crying (we know now that her food allergies and other health issues started at birth) and her big sister (16 month old Alexandra) wanted to help sooth her. Alexandra only knew that Elmo made her feel better...so she brought her baby a small Elmo to make her feel better!
Here's Evanthea with ElmoFirst birthday party (Winnie the Pooh) and my first attempt at allergy free cupcakes (they were pretty gross, thankfully she didn't have anything to compare them to!!).
Second birthday - she wanted a ride on the carousel!
Third birthday - we combined the girls' birthdays to one party with two themes. Alexandra chose High School Musical...
and Evanthea chose Doodlebops! Here she is as DeeDee Doodle and Alexandra is Jazz!

On her actual birthday, we spent the day at the mall...here she is lamenting the fact that her sister is at school and she's not...4th birthday - party theme was Photo Party. She wasn't happy to learn that a photo party didn't mean she gets to take all of the photos!!

Happy birthday to my sweet baby girl!

Katie & Berk {Trash the Dress}

2010-09-27T16:30:00.000-07:00

Katie & Berk were married on Friday - then the festivities continued today! We photographed a "Trash the Dress" session - why in quotes? Well, her dress really didn't get trashed! We just had fun!

Our first stop was Wild Bill's in Middletown. Great backdrops everywhere!

Here we have Wild Bill, the store; Wild Bill, the Bobblehead; and Wild Bill, the man! :) Thanks for letting us run around today!

This next one is one of my favs! Our next stop was a walk through Wesleyan University.
And Berk told me he loves optical illusions! Had to have some fun with this!!
Then our next step is the old railroad tracks in Middltown. This next one is a fav...on the silly side!
Love this next one!

Congratulations, once again, Katie & Berk!

Sara & John {married}

2010-09-26T05:36:00.000-07:00

Last night, Jess and I celebrated Sara & John's wedding at the Nutmeg in East Windsor. The room was so cozy and welcoming - thank you so much for taking care of everyone!

We soooo fell in love with Sara's dress!
And the detail was fantastic - I love these little flowers!

Sara is such a natural with the camera. We loved how she just fell into poses - it was wonderful to just observe her motions!

I think this shot right here is my favorite. I love it! I told Sara to stand near the wall and be sexy...wow!
And John rocking the rock star! Love it!

I think we got a little nervous when the ceremony started 10 minutes late....Sara is NEVER late!
Judge Rappe of Coventry (my neighbor by 5 miles!) officiated! It was nice to work with a "local" vendor! ;) And it was sort of cool too, I went to high school with his daughter!

Another one of my favorite shots
Robyn, of ESTOccasions, delivered a beautifully touching speech. She and Sara have been friends since they were 4 - not a dry eye in the house!

John's son, Mateo, was the ring bearer and I saw him running around with a car from Cars....most of you know that my little one is obsessed with Cars! I shot this one for her! ;)
John & Sara had an amazingly choreographed first dance! It was flawless and they floated across the dancefloor!

Sara was stopped two times in the lobby by some well wishers that were visiting the restaurant. She was given some interesting advice - the first was from a pleasant older woman who told her to always be faithful to each other (that's the secret to a successful marriage) and the other was from an older gentleman who told her to be like him because he is "happily married for....well, not anymore because she just died". Seriously, this is what she was told! :) Sara graciously accepted the advice with a smile on her face...every wedding has a story! ;)
The rest of the night was a non-stop party, with entertainment provided by Frank from PowerStation.

This is why you should leave the photos to the pros! ;) I had to laugh because she was trying to take a photo for about 3 minutes before someone told her the problem!
Congratulations, Sara and John! We wish you many happy years! (I'll spare you from more corny advice...)

Megan & Mike's Engagement Session

2010-09-25T08:08:00.001-07:00

Katie & Berk's Wedding Teasers

2010-09-25T06:45:00.000-07:00

Last night, Jess and I worked with some of our favorite vendors at Katie & Berk's Wedding! Bert & Sal joined us from After Hours DJ Entertainment, Dan Herzog rocked the video, and the site was the ever beautiful Farmington Club! Flowers were designed by Cat, who works with one of my favorite florists of all time, Datura Florist!

This was one of my favs!
We had a hard time getting the guys to cooperate for photos! LOL!

Isn't this sunset spectacular? It was breathtaking last night!

Another one of my favs!

Nothing better than a great pose before the bouquet toss!

And yes, there was a struggle!!
Bert brought out some fun props! Katie & Berk really wanted something to personalize their wedding, so they reached into their childhood memories! Katie's favorite was the wax lips and Berk's was the clown nose! Made for great photos and even better laughs!

I'm guessing Botox before the wedding wasn't a good idea, no?

Sarah, you've changed over the years...

Congratulations, Katie & Berk! We'll see you soon (trash the dress is scheduled for Monday morning!)!!!

Coventry farmers Market - Grandparents' day

2010-09-23T06:50:00.000-07:00

What a fun day, despite the chilly air! But at least these kids were dressed in the cutest fall fashions! Enjoy!

Boudoir session in the new studio!

2010-09-20T08:54:00.001-07:00

Our new studio is now OPEN! We celebrated with two boudoir sessions yesterday! Jess & I had an awesome day with two of our brides and we had so many good laughs, good times, and quite honestly, my windows are still steamy from the sessions! These two brides were HOT!!

Here's one of my favorite shots from the first session!

National Guard Homecoming

2010-09-11T07:40:00.001-07:00

Please click here for the story of how I was given this amazing opportunity to photograph this emotional homecoming!

Press play below to view the slideshow - link to the proofs is at the end

Marie & Jeremy's Wedding Day

2010-09-10T15:57:00.001-07:00

Dream Ride 2010

2010-09-08T08:01:00.001-07:00

Katie & Berk's Engagement Pics

2010-09-07T07:57:00.001-07:00