tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11446835270478280472024-03-05T04:54:24.432-06:00Breathtaking PhotographyCNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.comBlogger134125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-61056446077742368972014-03-30T14:00:00.003-05:002014-03-30T14:00:37.645-05:00New Website! New BLOG!Life, it is a changin'.... all the time it seems. Breathtaking, too. We now have a new web domain AND an integrated blog both of which can be seen by clicking<b> <a href="http://www.takeyourbreathaway.photofolio.org/" target="_blank">here</a></b>!<div>
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Please come check out what's happening there in 2014! </div>
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XOXO</div>
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Chantel</div>
CNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-65798314644336170352013-04-19T15:14:00.000-05:002013-04-19T15:54:18.252-05:00New Birth Pricing for 2013! | St. Louis Metro Birth PhotographyHello lovely followers! I'm excited to see Spring in the air. All that green and sunshine and warmth (ignore the tiny flurries in the air this morning!) makes me want to get outside and dig in the earth. I've currently got beets and melons sprouting and tomatoes not far behind. I absolutely love when the ground begins to wake up.<br />
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Speaking of waking up, Breathtaking has been on a bit of a hiatus for a few months (I'm sure at least a FEW people noticed!). I took a little breather, just like our friend Mother Nature, and now I'm waking back up and I feel so refreshed and renewed! It's time to get shooting my friends, and I'm super excited to get started again!<br />
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As such, here's some new birth photography pricing for 2013. I've simplified things and created a nifty little flipbook to share the information. There will soon be a new blog and website to go with it... so keep some eyes out. I like to give away things and run specials when I'm debuting a new, fun thing (new fun things are what keep me groovin'!)<br />
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<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="480" scrolling="no" seamless="seamless" src="http://files.flipsnack.com/iframe/embed.html?hash=f7k8ola5&wmode=window&bgcolor=EEEEEE&t=13664039941366404771" width="854"></iframe><br />
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I can't wait to see you all! I've missed you.<br />
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XOXO<br />
ChantelCNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-11005285856598706702012-10-14T16:45:00.000-05:002012-10-14T16:45:27.051-05:00Newborn Madness! | Alton Illinois Newborn & Baby PhotographerI adore newborn sessions. Yes, they're a lot more work (well, maybe not more than a busy 18 month old's session....) and they make me sweat (literally), but I do love me some sweet-soft baby smell. And I'm not having any more of my own tiny, squalling offspring so it's delightful to enjoy someone else's pink bundle of joy for a few hours! Plus, it's a fun challenge to think up new ideas to showcase the tiny precious bubs on camera and in print.<br />
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So imagine my sheer delight at not having one, not two, but <i><b>three</b></i> newborn sessions over the last several months. I took most of the summer off for a nasty illness and a huge rehab/move-in project but I made time to squeeze these ladies into my calendar. And I'm so glad I did.....<br />
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<br />CNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-90090432195395174812012-10-01T07:39:00.000-05:002012-10-01T07:47:59.482-05:00Shooting at the Milton Schoolhouse! | Alton, Illinois Senior PhotographerGood gracious this is possibly the most neglected aspect of my business- blogging! I love blogging sessions, but I have to guiltily admit that I often drop this in favor of Facebook to save myself time. Facebook doesn't pull up on Google though, and there are just <i>tooooo</i> many people in Alton who don't yet know I exist (and we have to change that!)<br />
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So let me start by telling you some exciting news! I'm now renting an adorable space in the <a href="http://www.vivantproject.com/blog/" target="_blank">Milton Schoolhouse</a> here in Alton. It's a historic (and reportedly haunted) building and the plethora of shooting spaces make my head spin. I've been particularly enjoying my senior sessions there this fall! We've been splitting our time between the building and an outdoor location... with amazing results. Check them out- my 2013 senior reps!<br />
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More shoots coming soon! I took most of the summer off, first to be really sick with a nasty systemic strep infection and then to rehab and move into a gigantic monstrosity of a house in upper Alton. I've got some really fun stuff on the books and a few sweet newborns to catch up on so keep your eyes out for more coming up!<br />
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XOXO<br />
Chantel<br />
<br />CNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-34659186937240484312012-05-08T10:11:00.001-05:002012-05-08T11:10:44.614-05:00Newsletter Goodness!It's about time I jumped on this bandwagon! Powered by <a href="https://madmimi.com/r/cd3695fb409b3ce6dc60ca44b08983ac" target="_blank">Mad Mimi</a>, I am in the process of creating a newsletter for Breathtaking clients and fans. If you'd like to stay in the know about promotions, special pricing, discounts, mini specials, boudoir parties, and the like PLUS get to know a little about me and my business PLUS get to see some behind the scenes PLUS get the low-down on my favorite businesses around Alton, give it a try. You can always unsubscribe if you find it's not your cup of tea! ;)<br />
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Just fill in your full name and email address and click the button! You can always find this at the top of every blog post, as well. Enjoy! I'm scheming up fantastic posts so don't miss it. I get a little kick back if you sign <i>your</i> business up for Mad Mimi through <a href="https://madmimi.com/r/cd3695fb409b3ce6dc60ca44b08983ac" target="_blank">this link</a>, so if you're interested please do me the kindness. I highly recommend the service! It's fast, easy, and very reasonably priced. You can even try it out for free (and/or maintain a free account if you don't need a ton of contacts!)<br />
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Thanks for being the best clients out there!<br />
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XOXO<br />
ChantelCNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-10425840673535262092012-05-06T23:19:00.001-05:002012-05-06T23:19:53.323-05:00Skinny Mini in June Shoot LOCATIONS! | Alton Boutique Photography<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
By now, I'm hoping you've heard about my <i><b>Skinny Mini in June</b></i> promotion. If not, hop over <a href="http://firstbreathphotography.blogspot.com/2012/05/skinny-mini-sessions-alton-illinois.html" target="_blank">here</a> and read about it. When I was brainstorming this idea, it occurred to me that in order to give all my clients the very best I've got in just 30 minutes of shooting, it would serve us well to go to locations I know like the back of my hand. Not to mention, two of them are my absolute favorite shoot locations in the Alton area! I consistently get good light and amazing images out of these places. After a couple of inquiries, it became clear that what we needed was a blog post, <b>with examples</b> (!), to help you make a selection! So, without further ado, here are your THREE locations to choose from, if you make the<i> excellent</i> decision to book a Skinny Mini this June.</div>
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Location One: Beautifully wooded, close to town, just a little off the beaten path so very quiet and private. Beautiful fields and a stunning canopy of trees that arch over the mulched pathways. I don't give out the name very often. If other photogs knew about it we would be over run! *wink*</div>
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Location Two: Not very hard to figure out! The beautiful campus of LCCC. Easy to find, lots of variety. Wide open, landscaped spaces plus beautiful old stone architecture. Many of my clients love this location and it's in my top three. </div>
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Location Three: Also not hard to decipher! Beautiful downtown Alton. You probably drive through it on a regular basis if you're reading this blog post. And while it becomes a sort of background to those of us who live in our little river town, it's really really stunning on camera. Old brick, unique backdrops, iron benches, cozy doorways (with <i>amazing</i> light!), and little ally ways give you a hip, interesting (and different) look for your session. </div>
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<br />CNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-56943710414867387182012-05-06T21:58:00.000-05:002012-10-12T16:06:59.937-05:00Dog Farts! | Alton Children and Family Photographer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span style="text-align: left;">I get pretty attached to most of "my" families, but this one in particular has a special place in my heart. They are the perfect blend of sweet, funny, and absolutely perfect in front of the camera. I have many, many tricks up my sleeves to help my clients relax and loosen up in front of my lens (did you know it's totally normal to feel uncomfy? you're not alone!) and these four just do.not.need.it. Well, maybe Carson. You can't tell it from the following images, but he takes a few minutes to warm up to me. Now, a few weeks ago I had a session with one of my </span><i style="text-align: left;">other</i><span style="text-align: left;"> really difficult three year olds and what finally worked to get some grins was teasing him about his dog farting. On a whim, I said to Carson.... "Do I need to say DOG FARRRRRT?!"....and.... </span><i style="text-align: left;">it totally worked</i><span style="text-align: left;">! Instant funny guy. Love.</span>
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Enjoy. I did. :)</div>
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XOXO</div>
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Chantel</div>
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<br />CNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-84863135172749414482012-05-04T18:19:00.000-05:002012-05-04T21:43:34.148-05:00Skinny Mini Sessions! | Alton, Illinois Family, Maternity, Newborn, Child, Portrait PhotographyAs many of you have noticed in the first half of 2012, when the calendar turned over a page last January, Breathtaking went a different direction with pricing and business structure. I wanted to move away from "shoot and burn" and in fact have been planning it for over a year. I've really felt like that sort of business practice, while much less time consuming for me and with far less overhead, wasn't really serving my clients they best way they could be served.<br />
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My main objection<i> </i>was<i> </i>that<i> most of my clients weren't printing their images</i>. </div>
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Or they were printing them at discount chain stores and suffering bad quality. Or they weren't getting those beautiful images up on the wall to make a real IMPACT in their homes. Or they didn't have access to/time to fool with some really neat product offerings (Ever seen a mini-accordion album? They are soooo cute!)<br />
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<i>Basically, my expertise and attention to detail were lacking in my final product. </i></div>
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And let's be honest. We don't spend $350 on a photography session, $200 on outfits, spend hours planning and getting ready, an hour of shoot time, wait 3 weeks to get images.... only to let them sit on a disk in a desk drawer or print out some 8x10's from Walmart. It's a<b> waste</b>. </div>
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But, it's hard to change a business structure. I took myself out of a lot of my client's price ranges (miss you guys!!!) and that was really sad. I am slowing building a client base but what I'm finding is that many people just don't know WHAT custom photography IS or WHY they should pay for it. I mean, why not buy the $9.99 package at the mall department store or pay your best friend's sister's babysitter who has a digital camera $50 bucks to shoot a disk of 50 unedited snapshots? Isn't that a better bang for your buck, after all?<br />
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Boutique photography is just what it sounds like. It's a "boutique" style of doing things. I am small, I am intimate, I am hands on, and most importantly, <i>I am experienced</i>. I go beyond mall-store-level-service. I get to know you, your family, and your needs. My top priority is what you'd like to have in your final outcome. I spend lots and lots of time with each client planning and you now get double the amount of shoot time (2 hours!) so we get just what we're looking for! And after the session, I come to you for an in-your-home, personalized Ordering Session. You get to view your images and then pick my brain. And your gallery? Full of well lit, well edited, perfectly retouched choices.What images would look best together? Where in your home? What size combinations would look right on this wall? How big do we need to go to fill the space? What's the difference between a canvas and a float wrap? Do you do keychains? My mom would love one! How can we crop this to work in this space? </div>
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<i>I come wielding my tape measure, stack of sample prints and products, and time. Plenty of time. </i></div>
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<b>You see, I want you to be completely satisfied with your complete experience. </b>From initial contact to final wall hanging.<b> </b>I want people to gasp when they walk in the door of your home and see a beautiful image in a stunning frame from <a href="http://poppytreeframes.com/" target="_blank">Poppy Tree Frames</a>. I want your Mother-in-Law to laugh with joy and thank you endlessly when she gets that cute little accordion album of your family photo shoot. Won't she love showing that off to all her friends!?</div>
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So, you wanna try this out? Try it out and see the difference? It's a little intimidating, huh? Never fear! In an effort to show you how freaking awesome this type of custom photography experience can be, I've put together the Skinny Mini Month of June! For half my normal Creativity Fee you'll be treated to my entire experience. Your shoot will be a "mini" and you'll get 30 minutes with me in one of three predetermined shoot locations. Minimum order requirements will be waived <b>and</b> <i>you'll get three complimentary digital images, included in your session fee, on a keepsake, custom disk just for giving me a try</i>. Want more? It's available for purchase but there's no requirement!<br />
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Sound too good to be true? It's not. </div>
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Give me a ring or shoot me an email and I'll get you set up with a date. I can't wait to meet you and show you why the boutique photography experience is worth the price you pay for the quality and attention to detail you'll receive. </div>
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XOXO</div>
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Chantel </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6997289046/" title="skinny_mini_june_2012 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img alt="skinny_mini_june_2012" height="900" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7242/6997289046_bb4714c847_b.jpg" width="900" /></a></div>CNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-91317578566079941922012-04-14T13:17:00.007-05:002012-04-14T13:38:10.411-05:00Little Boy Blue | Alton, Illinois Children's Photographer<span><span style="font-size: 100%;">This past year has been an exercise in coming home. I've had the pleasure of meeting old friends again and establishing fantastic relationships with many who weren't my "friends" in my youth but who certainly are becoming so now! Many of the families who have chosen to hire Breathtaking this year are connected with my past and Allison is no exception. I'm delighted to be getting to know her better than I did in high school and I was <i>really</i> pleased to get to meet her husband Patrick and her sweet son, Cooper. "The Dude" as they call him, has the most beautiful blue eyes (got those from Daddy!) and the sweetest </span>temperament<span style="font-size: 100%;">! 9 month olds can be hard to shoot sometimes. That 'ole Stranger Danger is usually revving up at that age. But not Coop! He happily sat for me, gave me smiles, threw out a few funny faces, and generally gave me a lot of great material to look at! Yesterday, at our in-home ordering session, he spent most of his time devouring cheese or squealing for my attention. I, too, adore cheese. ;)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 100%;">Enjoy Cooper and his parents! </span><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6931206998/" title="family_spooner_allison_4_2012-102_web_2 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7181/6931206998_9b341e7c1e_b.jpg" width="900" height="600" alt="family_spooner_allison_4_2012-102_web_2" /></a></span><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6931201514/" title="family_spooner_allison_4_2012-101_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5114/6931201514_fbd23131ac_b.jpg" width="683" height="1024" alt="family_spooner_allison_4_2012-101_web" /></a></span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/7077281069/" title="family_spooner_allison_4_2012-106_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5032/7077281069_60f5dcfd96_b.jpg" width="900" height="600" alt="family_spooner_allison_4_2012-106_web" /></a></span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/7077281015/" title="family_spooner_allison_4_2012-108bw_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7066/7077281015_e9e087da87_b.jpg" width="683" height="1024" alt="family_spooner_allison_4_2012-108bw_web" /></a></span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6931201580/" title="spooner_allison-101_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5334/6931201580_a8c8e9da4a_b.jpg" width="683" height="1024" alt="spooner_allison-101_web" /></a></span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6931207134/" title="family_spooner_allison_4_2012-115bw_web_2 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7250/6931207134_86a04d5a0f_b.jpg" width="683" height="1024" alt="family_spooner_allison_4_2012-115bw_web_2" /></a></span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/7077280907/" title="family_spooner_allison_4_2012-117_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5347/7077280907_ba8cd2f720_b.jpg" width="683" height="1024" alt="family_spooner_allison_4_2012-117_web" /></a></span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/7077280731/" title="family_spooner_allison_4_2012-119bw_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7062/7077280731_e6a63f8dd1_b.jpg" width="900" height="600" alt="family_spooner_allison_4_2012-119bw_web" /></a></span></div>CNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-47333166565149826562012-03-27T10:44:00.004-05:002012-03-27T11:34:04.627-05:00Valentine's Day Boudoir Party Fun! | St. Louis Boudoir Photographer<span ><span style="font-size: 100%;">I've had tons of emails and Facebook messages about boudoir images since these first went live last month. Y'all have really just blown me away with your interest and I'm really excited to add Breathless Boudoir Parties to the line up of services offered by Breathtaking. I'm currently seeking out a new location as my last one was temporary but I believe I've got a good one on the hook. Think luxe St. Louis hotel.... hair and makeup.... </span></span> <span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;">Hors d'oeuvres... and three or four of your very best girlfriends all together having a blast. It's a good time!</span></span><br /><br /><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;">I do love these sessions but I'd never done a party like this before. V-Day 2012 seemed like the perfect time. Love has been blooming in my life for nearly a year now and I've never felt so relaxed and comfortable in my own skin. I absolutely adore helping other women feel that way. My cohort Marissa Hart joined me in downtown Alton at our gorgeous rented loft and she really made magic happen. See last blog post for before and afters. They are all beautiful to begin with but add a little makeup and some curls plus slip into something sexy and you get images that make clients say "Is that ME!? I didn't know I could look like that!" And the best part? Marissa and I had so much fun. In fact, Marissa posted later to Facebook that spending the day making other ladies feel fabulous made HER feel fabulous. I would have to agree. :)</span><br /><br /><span style="line-height: 19px;">Marissa primped and primed in the adjacent room while I shot in the beautifully lit main space. It was such a blast. I mean, every photographer who ever writes a blog post says "It was SO MUCH FUNNNNNN!" even when you sweated and slopped through grass and were eaten alive by chiggers and had 1000 other difficult and not fun things happen. What can we say? We're optimists, the lot of us. But this session really WAS fun. We gossiped, listened to Marvin Gaye and Interpol (eclectic mix, much???), drank mimosas, ate chocolate dipped strawberries, and laughed our asses off the whole time. I will admit, to be real, my feet freaking HURT when we got done! I spent the whole day in bare feet climbing on and off of my ladder so I could get the correct angles. Nothing like your photographer hanging off the side of a ladder chanting YES YES YES while she shoots with one hand. ;) </span></span><br /><br /><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;">First was Miss B. She was a little nervous. And why not as these were her very FIRST professional pictures ever. I really felt honored to be the one she chose to capture her in this moment. After a little imbibing and some primping, she was ready to take to the set. And this is what happened: </span></span><br /><br /><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/7021103491/" title="boudoir_meyer_barb-126web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7230/7021103491_40fdce6de6_b.jpg" width="683" height="1024" alt="boudoir_meyer_barb-126web" /></a></span><br /><br /><span style="line-height: 19px;">The images were a gift for her boyfriend (possibly now fiance!?) and I hear reports that he's really happy with the custom designed album that came with her session.....</span><br /><br /><span style="line-height: 19px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/7021103451/" title="boudoir_meyer_barb-101bw by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7222/7021103451_9c5cfc8166_b.jpg" width="683" height="1024" alt="boudoir_meyer_barb-101bw" /></a></span></span></span><div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); line-height: 19px;"><span ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/7021173813/" title="boudoir_meyer_barb-115 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7078/7021173813_d16f31d9bc_b.jpg" width="900" height="600" alt="boudoir_meyer_barb-115" /></a></span></span></div><div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); line-height: 19px;"><span ><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;">Next up was beautiful Miss M, who came to me with the idea for a 40's pin-up look and man did she run with it! She had it all- gloves, cool hat, gorgeous wardrobe... and then Marissa just killed it with hair and makeup. Check it: </span><br /><br /><span style="line-height: 19px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/7021185669/" title="boudoir_tungett_melissa-109 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7121/7021185669_1cf91a9334_b.jpg" width="683" height="1024" alt="boudoir_tungett_melissa-109" /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/7021128405/" title="boudoir_tungett_melissa-117 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7119/7021128405_772f9289d9_b.jpg" width="683" height="1024" alt="boudoir_tungett_melissa-117" /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/7021185649/" title="boudoir_tungett_melissa-115 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7083/7021185649_57308879d9_b.jpg" width="683" height="1024" alt="boudoir_tungett_melissa-115" /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6875023602/" title="boudoir_tungett_melissa-124 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7045/6875023602_f6f9fe6b0f_b.jpg" width="683" height="1024" alt="boudoir_tungett_melissa-124" /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;">Last up was the stunning Miss N.... who was my partner in crime during most of high school, gave me my first drag off of a cigarette, and we basically just helped ourselves to a load of fun and a little bit of trouble any time we set out in her silver VW Jetta. And as the light faded and I switched from natural light to my flash unit... something amazing happened and I saw that old flame flare in her eyes and she got really really sexy... and her images prove it. These show a bit more skin that what was posted above, so be aware. ;-)<br /></span><br /><br /><span style="line-height: 19px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6874998138/" title="boudoir_weidenfeld_nicole_2_2012-101 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7106/6874998138_2e61997a45_b.jpg" width="683" height="1024" alt="boudoir_weidenfeld_nicole_2_2012-101" /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6874998088/" title="boudoir_weidenfeld_nicole_2_2012-113bw by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7247/6874998088_809615379e_b.jpg" width="900" height="600" alt="boudoir_weidenfeld_nicole_2_2012-113bw" /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6875108034/" title="boudoir_weidenfeld_nicole_2_2012-102 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7278/6875108034_101720fdb0_b.jpg" width="683" height="1024" alt="boudoir_weidenfeld_nicole_2_2012-102" /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/7021213221/" title="boudoir_weidenfeld_nicole_2_2012-119 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7188/7021213221_2b25513453_b.jpg" width="683" height="1024" alt="boudoir_weidenfeld_nicole_2_2012-119" /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6875107990/" title="boudoir_weidenfeld_nicole_2_2012-121 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7107/6875107990_3065ba222d_b.jpg" width="683" height="1024" alt="boudoir_weidenfeld_nicole_2_2012-121" /></a><br /><br />She's smokin'.<br /><br />This was fun stuff and I am delighted to hear that several of you are interested in getting on the books for parties. And keep in mind, if you DON'T have a group of friends that want to go in with you on a fun party- <b><i>don't sweat</i></b>. You can still book a normal session at my normal fee schedule and we'll figure out the details. From shooting it in your clean, well-lit bedroom to renting a hotel or bed and breakfast room for a day- there's lots of options. I've even shot a half naked lady in the back of her friend's cow pasture! Creative muscles well FLEXED, people. ;-)<br /><br />Until next time!<br /><br />Chantel<br /><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span ><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></span></div>CNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-15160736760464471352012-02-24T11:18:00.004-06:002012-03-28T11:03:32.029-05:00The Anatomy of a Boudoir Shoot | St Louis Boudoir PhotographerIt was my absolute pleasure to involve my friend and former high school cohort, Marissa Murphy Hart, who is currently a student in the arts of beautification, to join me on a cold, rainy weekend morning at our uber secret, gorgeously lit location in the heart of historic downtown Alton, Illinois for a party like no other. A party involving mimosas, wine, chocolate, music and well... some sexy, smokin' hot, half naked ladies. She rocked the hair and makeup, the ladies rocked the attitude, and I rocked the shots. As a result, there were a few happier men in the world this Valentine's Day and three women who got to see themselves as they never have before. Enjoy a little indulgence into that day (which will live in my mind forever as the 'Marissa Got Pulled Over For Speeding While Trying To Get To The Naked Ladies Day'.... heeheehee).....<br /><br />She really, really rocked it. But first, everyone looked like, well, a little bit like little old ladies at the beauty shop....<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6780303248/" title="getting_ready-102_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7045/6780303248_260ec256e4_b.jpg" alt="getting_ready-102_web" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6926420571/" title="getting_ready-104_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7037/6926420571_44f402f02b_b.jpg" alt="getting_ready-104_web" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br />But glam takes a little bit of work, even when working with beauties like these. So we added a little makeup to our hair-in-the-works....<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6780670092/" title="getting_ready-105_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7064/6780670092_b42bdcfb2b_b.jpg" alt="getting_ready-105_web" height="600" width="900" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6780670234/" title="getting_ready-101_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7196/6780670234_197b298518_b.jpg" alt="getting_ready-101_web" height="600" width="900" /></a><br /><br />(here she is... working hard but looking so fine she's barely breaking a sweat!)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6926420627/" title="getting_ready-103_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7055/6926420627_fef0628ae4_b.jpg" alt="getting_ready-103_web" height="600" width="900" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6926420797/" title="getting_ready-101_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7055/6926420797_38c63c25e7_b.jpg" alt="getting_ready-101_web" height="600" width="900" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6926420385/" title="getting_ready-102_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7201/6926420385_117f49d892_b.jpg" alt="getting_ready-102_web" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6926420343/" title="getting_ready-101_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7049/6926420343_8abfdaa200_b.jpg" alt="getting_ready-101_web" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br />Man.... all this hard work. I'm thirsty. And hungry. Got anything to nosh on????<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6926788049/" title="getting_ready-103_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7070/6926788049_07d9021185_b.jpg" alt="getting_ready-103_web" height="600" width="900" /></a><br /><br />Oh yeah. Baby.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6780670138/" title="getting_ready-104_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7204/6780670138_7e35514dea_b.jpg" alt="getting_ready-104_web" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br />Lucky me? I got to enjoy a round of chocolate and strawberries and sip my mimosa while the first lady was made up all pretty like! Music and good conversation and pampering. Does it get any better?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6926420531/" title="getting_ready-105_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7204/6926420531_2f0c20e6d9_b.jpg" alt="getting_ready-105_web" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6780303018/" title="getting_ready-107_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7209/6780303018_7a17cdafbd_b.jpg" alt="getting_ready-107_web" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br />And.... we're starting to get there ladies....<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6780670058/" title="getting_ready-106_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7183/6780670058_2c658beb54_b.jpg" alt="getting_ready-106_web" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6926787893/" title="getting_ready-107_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7204/6926787893_43bf4c99b3_b.jpg" alt="getting_ready-107_web" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6926787857/" title="getting_ready-108_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7210/6926787857_b06ba45875_b.jpg" alt="getting_ready-108_web" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6780302960/" title="getting_ready-108_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7052/6780302960_31d9564f65_b.jpg" alt="getting_ready-108_web" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br />.... tune in tomorrow to see these gorgeous ladies shine. I already know how hot they look so I can promise you it's worth the wait! ;)CNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-36791272333241725632012-01-20T15:07:00.004-06:002012-01-20T15:35:49.589-06:00Introducing.... Breathless Boudoir<div class="pbk"><div class="header"><h2 class="me">bou·doir<span class="pronset"><span class="show_spellpr" style="display: inline;"><span class="prondelim"></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: normal; font-style: italic;" class="prondelim"></span></span></span></span></h2><h2 class="me"><span class="pronset"><span class="show_spellpr" style="display:inline;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: normal; font-style: italic;" class="prondelim">[</span><span style="font-weight: normal; font-style: italic;" class="pron"><span class="boldface">boo</span><span>-dw<span id="dtx-highlighting-item">a</span>hr</span></span><span style="font-weight: normal; font-style: italic;" class="prondelim">]</span></span> <span class="pron_toggle" style="display: inline;"><a class="pronlink" alt="Toggle for IPA" title="Click to show IPA"><span><span id="dtx-highlighting-item"></span></span></a></span></span></span></h2> </div><div class="pbk"><span class="pg"><span id="hotword"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); cursor: default;" id="hotword" name="hotword"><span id="dtx-highlighting-item">noun-</span></span> </span></span><div class="luna-Ent"><span id="hotword"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); cursor: default;" id="hotword" name="hotword"><span id="dtx-highlighting-item">a</span></span> <span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); cursor: default;" id="hotword" name="hotword"><span>wom<span id="dtx-highlighting-item">a</span>n's</span></span> <span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); cursor: default;" id="hotword" name="hotword"><span id="dtx-highlighting-item">bedroom</span></span> <span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); cursor: default;" id="hotword" name="hotword"><span id="dtx-highlighting-item">or</span></span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword"><span>priv<span id="dtx-highlighting-item">a</span>te</span></span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">sitting</span> <span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); cursor: default;" id="hotword" name="hotword">room<br /><br /><br />Introducing a new branch of Breathtaking Photography. Elegant, sexy images starring <span style="font-style: italic;">the beauty of you</span>. Classic, timeless, and simply breathtaking. Let's be real. In today's world, how often do we get time, as women, to retire to beautiful, calming boudoirs and simply be quiet and still and sensuous? How often do you really celebrate what it means to be feminine? How often have I, in the past year, really pampered my body and enjoyed it as the hard working, beautiful thing that it certainly is? You're beautiful. Did you know that? I don't care what our media fueled thin-frenzy says about curvy thighs and stretch marks and wrinkles and yes, maybe a bit of sag. You are gorgeous and supple and sensuous but just don't often have the time to revel in it as you (we) should.<br /><br />I love the ability to show my clients how amazing they really are. Allow me the honor of revealing to you (and perhaps a special person in your life) the sensual, sexy side of you.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6732597941/" title="boudoir_ad_1_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6732697079/" title="boudoir_ad_1_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6732697079_9c2b7c4cce_b.jpg" alt="boudoir_ad_1_web" width="900" height="675" /></a><br /><br />Details by email:<br /><br />chantel@takeyourbreathaway.net<br /><br />XOXO<br /><br />Chantel<br /></span> </span></div></div></div>CNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-33391928206516575762012-01-10T19:23:00.000-06:002012-01-10T19:24:28.152-06:00Lifestyle Photography Fun | Alton, Illinois Family Portrait PhotographerSo this is the first of four blog posts coming this week. I spent a few days in Dallas at the tail end of December and some of my most favorite clients took me up on the opportunity to do a little shooting while I was there.<br /><br />Like Kristin and her clan of stunning children. And really, I'm not sure she and her husband could make unattractive kids. This family is dear to my heart because I've shot two of her births. There's something really awesome about watching kids grow up in front of your lens. When tiny Joon came into view I nearly hit the ground. It's literally been a YEAR since I saw him. Last time he was a teeny, tiny two week old newborn.<br /><br />Talk about a laid back, fun, lifestyle family photo shoot. It wasn't intended to be a "concept" shoot necessarily but it sort of bled into that with my borrowing a chalk board for a fun prop and them bringing a few old, colorful quilts. I'd LOVE to do more prop/location themed shoots this year! Add to their friendly, easygoing vibe a warm December afternoon with the most stunning golden sunshine you've ever seen and, well, Kristin and I were very, <span style="font-style: italic;">very</span> happy girls. Enjoy!<br /><br />This is Huck. He used to look like this:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6676068007/" title="huck_birth_blog_1 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6676068007_874bd6c25c_b.jpg" alt="huck_birth_blog_1" width="900" height="600" /></a><br /><br />Now he looks like this!!!!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6675958787/" title="kristinblogger-101 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7019/6675958787_88cfcbb152_b.jpg" alt="kristinblogger-101" width="900" height="600" /></a><br /><br />Pretty cute, eh?<br /><br />Baby Brother Joon one year ago (almost exactly!!!)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6676082057/" title="kristinbirth-394 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7151/6676082057_296b506808_b.jpg" alt="kristinbirth-394" width="900" height="600" /></a><br /><br />And now he's a lady killer, I tell ya.....<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6676091017/" title="blogger-205 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7006/6676091017_955d0d32a9_b.jpg" alt="blogger-205" width="900" height="600" /></a><br /><br />Those big, brown eyes take my breath away, they do.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6676113967/" title="blogger-206 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7008/6676113967_22785bfee7_b.jpg" alt="blogger-206" width="683" height="1024" /></a><br /><br />I wasn't lucky enough to be at this Sweet Thang's birth, but I love her all the same. I originally met her at her beautiful Mama's maternity session (waaay back when I didn't even offer portraiture!) and she's a trip. Always fun times when Miss Millie is around. ;)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6676192049/" title="blogger-208 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7160/6676192049_62fd17cdde_b.jpg" alt="blogger-208" width="900" height="600" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6676192143/" title="blogger-207 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7154/6676192143_80942b708c_b.jpg" alt="blogger-207" width="683" height="1024" /></a><br /><br />If you'd be interested in a different type of family photoshoot... just a little off the beaten path and a bit more fun than the typical- contact me! Spring dates are booking now and concept sessions ARE available in the Alton area. :)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6675923113/" title="kristin_johnson_blog by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7015/6675923113_f1147f2cba_b.jpg" alt="kristin_johnson_blog" width="900" height="897" /></a>CNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-24412297076953786622011-12-14T12:15:00.003-06:002011-12-14T13:41:47.822-06:00Back to the Business of Birth | St Louis Birth PhotographerI've noticed over the years, we photographers often have a path that led us into the art of still photography. It's not something you just fall into and take up because it's there. It takes an innate love and skill set that is almost inborn. From portraits to still life to photojournalism, we all have the passion that drives us to keep pressing that shutter button and capturing the things we see around us.<br /><br />For this girl, it was birth.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6511715625/" title="kristinbirthsneaks-105 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7174/6511715625_23bff2e8ba_b.jpg" alt="kristinbirthsneaks-105" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br />While I offer portraiture and love it very much, at my heart I am a photojournalist. I want to be the fly on the wall capturing the action in front of me. Shots like the one above? I don't just love to capture them. I<span style="font-style: italic;"> live</span> for it.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6511715917/" title="kristinbirth-340 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7003/6511715917_71b1266b33_b.jpg" alt="kristinbirth-340" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br />Birth photography has always been around as long as cameras have been at births. But the <span style="font-style: italic;">business</span> of capturing birth on film/camera for a client was just starting to pick up steam in 2005 when my passion for birth itself was in its infancy. I was pregnant with my third child, planning a home birth, and finding stunningly beautiful images of birth on the Internet. It captured my interest immediately.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6511942889/" title="melissa_gideon by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7174/6511942889_8efe7e4c68_b.jpg" alt="melissa_gideon" height="598" width="900" /></a><br /><br />In 2004-2005, as I was nurturing the babe growing in my belly, I was also nurturing the love of the art of birth photography. I wanted this to be my life, my career. I absolutely loved and was fascinated by birth. I already enjoyed the art of photography. In 2006, I was given permission to shoot my first birth. The ONLY one I've ever missed. My clients called too late and I was unable to make the 40 minute drive to the birth center fast enough to shoot the actual birth. But what I learned was irreplaceable.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6511952145/" title="untitled-645-81 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7174/6511952145_a631fcd68e_b.jpg" alt="untitled-645-81" height="600" width="900" /></a><br /><br />I had never had work that I was so passionate about. To this day, nearly 6 years later, I have yet to find anything that grips me with the same excitement, the same joy, the same <span style="font-style: italic;">vitality</span> that birth photography brings to me.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6511716133/" title="rhysbirth111510-179 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7011/6511716133_9f10869b26_b.jpg" alt="rhysbirth111510-179" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br />My sadness in December 2010 at shooting what I knew would be my last birth for quite some time was a little overwhelming. Yes, I was still offering portraiture and my photography business has continued to grow and thrive, but my status as single mom meant that the unpredictable nature of birth was off the table. Possibly for a very long time. I was nearly distraught.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6511715797/" title="kristinbirth-391 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7008/6511715797_b83c82bfa0_b.jpg" alt="kristinbirth-391" height="600" width="900" /></a><br /><br />My fiance, Jay, says that my face lights up when I talk about birth photography. It's what most animates me.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6511715869/" title="kristinbirth-367 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7020/6511715869_69cb950bb4_b.jpg" alt="kristinbirth-367" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br />And why wouldn't you love it? The long nights, the weeks of living on call- ready to drop everything and go at a moment's notice, the sleeping with one hand on your cell phone (and obsessively checking your phone when a Mama has started laboring), the foggy mornings of editing last night's images.....<br /><br />It's a calling. It's a passion. It's my <span style="font-style: italic;">life</span>. Other than Jay and my children there is literally nothing I love more.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6511715977/" title="jonnabirth-184 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7172/6511715977_72119087db_b.jpg" alt="jonnabirth-184" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6511716327/" title="rhysbirth111510-136 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7017/6511716327_0563c92522_b.jpg" alt="rhysbirth111510-136" height="600" width="900" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6511715687/" title="kristinbirth-394 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7149/6511715687_3f9835ef46_b.jpg" alt="kristinbirth-394" height="600" width="900" /></a><br /><br />And now, it's back in my life.<br /><br />Breathtaking happily introduces birth photography back into it's menu of choices, beginning with due dates in late February 2012. I'm just absolutely delighted to begin this work that so fills me with joy and allows me to give my clients a glimpse into their births that they would not otherwise have.<br /><br />I shoot at home, at birth center, and at hospitals around the St. Louis Metropolitan area and into Illinois. I work equally as well at c-sections as I do at home births, with obstetricians as well as with midwives.<br /><br />I will accept 4 births per month and offer a fantastic Belly+Birth+Baby package at a discount for the complete boutique photography experience.<br /><br />You may reach me at 636-328-5120 or at chantel@takeyourbreathaway.net<br /><br />I am honored and humbled at my ability to serve women and give the gift of memories treasured for a lifetime.<br /><br />Much love,<br />ChantelCNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-6064881569755062712011-12-11T10:46:00.003-06:002011-12-11T11:02:32.123-06:00Baby Planner Cami | Alton Illinois Baby PhotographerLong ago, when dinosaurs roamed the earth, I went to high school with a pretty lady named Amy. All these years later she's given birth to three beautiful daughters. The last of whom is the subject of this humble blog post. Baby Camryn is so much like her mother in looks and expression I crack up every time I see this image:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6493332077/" title="haerr_camryn_3months-102_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7014/6493332077_6e42b33bce_b.jpg" alt="haerr_camryn_3months-102_web" height="600" width="900" /></a><br /><br />That's TOTALLY an "Amy" look right there. A cocked eyebrow that denotes her incredulity at the world. "Really? You're going to get me all dressed up and drag me outside and take my photo? What ARE you thinking!?"<br /><br />Yes, yes I am kid. And you're gonna LIKE it.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6493331901/" title="haerr_camryn_3months-104_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7158/6493331901_af8a2db5cf_b.jpg" alt="haerr_camryn_3months-104_web" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br />No? Not yet? Let's try it again....<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6493331589/" title="haerr_camryn_3months-107_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7164/6493331589_b69411f080_b.jpg" alt="haerr_camryn_3months-107_web" height="1024" width="683" /></a><br /><br />Hmmmmm... I know. We'll get big sister Taylor in on the action. That should do the trick.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6493331705/" title="haerr_camryn_3months-105_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7016/6493331705_cd748842fb_b.jpg" alt="haerr_camryn_3months-105_web" height="600" width="900" /></a><br /><br />Yeah, that's what I thought. *grin*<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6493332209/" title="haerr_camryn_3months-108_web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7173/6493332209_ce09d842a1_b.jpg" alt="haerr_camryn_3months-108_web" height="600" width="900" /></a><br /><br />I'll see<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"> you</span>, Ms. Thang, in a few. We're gonna have loads more fun together, you and I. Mama has you booked every three months this coming year.<span style="font-style: italic;"> **wink**</span><br /><br />Your Favorite Photographer<br />ChantelCNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-62102820208602591032011-11-26T13:08:00.002-06:002011-11-26T13:17:38.728-06:00Bad, BAD Blogger! | Metro East St Louis PhotographerI'm a terrible blogger! Or rather, I've been so busy establishing our lives here in Alton, Illinois, resuming a business I thought I was going to have to let go, and meeting/moving in with the man of my dreams that I got completely sidetracked.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold;">NO MORE, DEAR READERS!<br /></div><br />Breathtaking is back in a <span style="font-weight: bold;">BIG</span> way!<br /><br />Check it out peeps.... a little lookie-loo at all the session I <span style="font-style: italic;">haven't</span> blogged since May!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6406677559/" title="may_thru_august by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/6406677559_2a069e34bf_b.jpg" alt="may_thru_august" height="897" width="900" /></a><br /><br />Love my job, love my clients, love my life. I'm excited and practically bursting with new ideas for the biz and I can't wait to share with you all! :)<br /><br />XOXO<br />ChantelCNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-80920155084338600642011-11-26T09:21:00.004-06:002011-11-26T09:31:18.766-06:00Small Business Saturday!<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/6405514405/" title="smallbizsat_2 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6235/6405514405_160d9eab88_b.jpg" alt="smallbizsat_2" height="425" width="900" /></a><br /><br />I love the idea of Small Business Saturday! And to help promote this fantastic concept- I'm offering one HECK of a deal today.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Purchase a gift certificate for a full digital session today for HALF off!</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">That's a steep discount on 2011 prices AND you or your loved one may schedule your session anytime in 2012! Gift certificates are good for 12 months from date of purchase.<br /><br />And really, is there a better gift than the one of photography? Your family, your children, your home.... YOU. I want to capture the silly, the smiles, the giggles, the love that y'all have for each other and present it to you to treasure for a lifetime. That's a holiday gift ANYONE would love to get- don't you think?<br /><br />Contact me before 10pm tonight to get this fantastic discount. This sale only happens ONCE per year and prices will be going up in 2012. You may reach me at 636-328-5120 today or via email at chantel@takeyourbreathaway.net! Happy shopping!<br /></div></div>CNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-78933973737428878522011-05-14T17:25:00.005-05:002011-05-14T21:43:12.588-05:00Sweet Baby Jane | Godfrey Baby Photographer<div style="text-align: justify;">What's better than dressing up a baby girl in pearls and lace and washing her in the golden sunshine for a photo session? Um.... nothing? I can't think of anything, either...<br /></div><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5720300260/" title="klunk_blog_2 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2232/5720300260_ddc336e202_b.jpg" alt="klunk_blog_2" height="568" width="1024" /></a><br /><br />Except <span style="font-style:italic;">maaaaaybe </span>sticking her cute little self in an antique washtub...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5719780371/" title="klunk_blog_3 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3032/5719780371_71df26595d_b.jpg" alt="klunk_blog_3" height="1021" width="1024" /></a><br /><br />That's some serious YUM right there. You know, that washtub came with vintage DIRT, too. ;)<br /><br /><br />Til next time...<br />ChantelCNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-48683858752665395722011-05-10T22:06:00.005-05:002011-05-10T22:33:20.788-05:00I Love This Family | Alton, Illinois Family PhotographyI almost always blog the same day I shoot. Why? Because I can't stand it. I'm usually so giddy over my images that I HAVE to get home, download, and edit sneaks. It's just how I've always done it. <br /><br />But this family... this family took some time. Because I just couldn't come up with a good enough description for them. I've completely fallen in love with them all. And photogenic doesn't even begin to cover it. <br /><br />You might recognize Casey and her clan from my past posts about Relish Designs. We're neighbors, we're close friends, we'll some day be business partners I've no doubt. In short, I adore her/them. We met in Downtown Alton for a walk along antique row and had a freaking blast. You can't help but have fun when you're with them. Enjoy the hilarity. We sure did. ;) <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5708614437/" title="Buss_fam_blog_5_2011 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2648/5708614437_65dd5bb17a_b.jpg" width="1024" height="1021" alt="Buss_fam_blog_5_2011"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5709204172/" title="buss_fam_blog_5_2011_2 by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2206/5709204172_2cc3a3e9d8_b.jpg" width="1024" height="558" alt="buss_fam_blog_5_2011_2"></a><br /><br />Yes, I know the formatting is off! Pppppttttffffftttt!!!! I will be switching the Breathtaking Blog to Wordpress soonsoonsoon. In the mean time, I've LOVING these new storyboards. <br /><br />Have a fabulous week!<br />ChantelCNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-79509536224076101092011-05-05T11:11:00.007-05:002011-05-05T11:40:15.884-05:00Happy Mother's Day | Alton Family PhotographerYou know what I love about my mother? <br /><br />Her chocolate brown eyes. The sound of her voice. The way her eyes crinkle when she smiles. The way she always can tell when I'm upset when I'm faking it for the rest of the world. And our relationship is complicated, to be sure. But I love her with my whole, entire being. And now that I have my own Six Pack I understand her so much better. I know now that mothers are just human beings- doing the very best they can to take care of and raise other human beings. We aren't perfect, we have many, many (many) flaws, and we fail... sometimes several times a day. But we love our children. Deeply. Fiercely. With a passion that takes our breath and raises the hair on our arms. <br /><br />You know something else about mothers? We tend to lurk in the background. And for most purposes I'm just fine with that and in fact, do a fair amount myself of the backstage deck hand stuff. But when it comes to <span style="font-style:italic;">documenting</span> your life with your children... I'm just not okay with that. Because someday you'll be gone. This is a fact of life we all must face. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Someday we won't be here. <span style="font-weight:bold;"></span></span><br /><br />All they will have left are the sweet memories in their head. <br /><br />And the photographs. <br /><br />So today I'm announcing a little giveaway over on the Breathtaking Facebook page. I don't care if you're overweight. I don't care if you don't like your hair. I don't care if you think "I take TERRIBLE pictures" (don't worry, I know how to make ya look GOOD!). Your kids don't care either. Someday they will open those old photo albums and point to your image and say "This was my mother and I loved her with all my heart". And they won't give a damn about anything other than your smile. <br /><br />Yes, I may have little tears in my eyes. I'm such a sap. <br /><br />So, go click "like" on Facebook <a href="http://www.facebook.com/breathtakingphotos">here</a> and tell me why the "mother" in your life needs a FREE session with me. It can be your sister, your wife, your best friend... or your mother. All that is required of her is that she be IN the images (you may NOT use this to shoot your kids or your newborn alone... you MUST be in them). <br /><br />Here's what you need to do:<br /><br />Upload an image of your nominee on the wall at Breathtaking's Facebook Page <a href="http://www.facebook.com/breathtakingphotos">here</a>. Then rally your friends and family to go and click "like" under the image. Comments of love are welcome and encouraged but only the "likes" count as votes. At 9am on Mother's Day, THIS Sunday, I will post the winner. <br /><br />The fine print: This contest is open to anyone in the US but you must cover travel expenses if you're outside the St. Louis Metro Area or Dallas Metroplex. Dallas clients will be limited to certain shoot dates/times. Tell me a your nominees name and why she should win. At 9am on Sunday, May 9th (Mother's Day) I'll count the number of "likes" under each image and announce the winner! And I bet there will be a special little treat for ALL the nominees, too. ;) <br /><br />So go like me! And then post about the woman in your life who needs to have her picture taken!!!! :)<br /><br />Love, <br />ChantelCNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-19171579885054977382011-05-01T14:05:00.003-05:002011-05-01T14:15:17.864-05:00Little Miss I'm Not Having It | Children's Photography Alton IllinoisOh, I've seen some toddlers throw some fits in my time. It's par for the course when working with babies and toddlers is your job AND you've got three under school age at home, too. So when Miss Keira showed up at her session last night with her "No pictures, please" attitude going on she didn't know that she'd met her match. Yet. ;) <br /><br />Big brother Ben was AWESOME and Mama Kate brought her A-game. Together, we managed to talk Keira into a good mood and subsequently the sky opened up and gave us just a glimmer of beautiful evening sunlight. Thanks to all involved (mother nature included!) for these gorgeous images! <br /><br />We shot in downtown Alton and my my my, I think I've found my new favorite location! Check it out:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5676364565/" title="kfisherkids_04_30_11-113web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5303/5676364565_46321a3a1d.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="kfisherkids_04_30_11-113web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5676364605/" title="kfisherkids_04_30_11-201web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5264/5676364605_202b627d22.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="kfisherkids_04_30_11-201web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5676414501/" title="kfisherkids_04_30_11-104web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5064/5676414501_791d7d0ed9.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="kfisherkids_04_30_11-104web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5676423105/" title="kfisherkids_04_30_11-106web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5066/5676423105_ed107f7a13.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="kfisherkids_04_30_11-106web"></a><br /><br />Yummy light and some really fun locations down there!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5676976328/" title="kfisherkids_04_30_11-202web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5181/5676976328_6f73f82f1e.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="kfisherkids_04_30_11-202web"></a><br /><br />Then we moved on down the road to a little park near my house. Ever heard of Haskell Park? It looks a little something like this:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5676926178/" title="kfisherkids_04_30_11-116web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5230/5676926178_de955e23a3.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="kfisherkids_04_30_11-116web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5676926050/" title="kfisherkids_04_30_11-125web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5181/5676926050_fef6f3ba36.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="kfisherkids_04_30_11-125web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5676364345/" title="kfisherkids_04_30_11-127web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5065/5676364345_db9ec27feb.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="kfisherkids_04_30_11-127web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5676926124/" title="kfisherkids_04_30_11-120web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5066/5676926124_2a4dd8a448.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="kfisherkids_04_30_11-120web"></a><br /><br />Oh, she's a funny, funny baby!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5676364423/" title="kfisherkids_04_30_11-123web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5148/5676364423_52fc75088d.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="kfisherkids_04_30_11-123web"></a><br /><br />Thanks Katie, it was WONDERFUL to see you and I adore your babies. What a freaking awesome job I have!<br /><br />Love, <br />ChantelCNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-3952047815225749812011-04-30T15:46:00.004-05:002011-04-30T16:04:21.116-05:0015 years later.... | Alton, Illinois Family PhotographerWhat happens when you take this cute couple:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5673616516/" title="ohleyfam_04_30_11-147web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5067/5673616516_1e05eed6d7.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="ohleyfam_04_30_11-147web"></a><br /><br />And add on 15 years of love? You get this, of course:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5673048271/" title="ohleyfam_04_30_11-126web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5227/5673048271_221443ba29.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="ohleyfam_04_30_11-126web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5673096799/" title="ohleyfam_04_30_11-113web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5310/5673096799_e6949402c2.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="ohleyfam_04_30_11-113web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5673669434/" title="ohleyfam_04_30_11-127web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5022/5673669434_c48b17811f.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="ohleyfam_04_30_11-127web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5673616460/" title="ohleyfam_04_30_11-102web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5221/5673616460_132e4ef743.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="ohleyfam_04_30_11-102web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5673117857/" title="ohleyfam_04_30_11-117web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5267/5673117857_2e68ea9eb9.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="ohleyfam_04_30_11-117web"></a><br /><br />That's FIVE amazing, funny, lovable children and ONE happy marriage. It's a beautiful thing. :)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5673048473/" title="ohleyfam_04_30_11-143web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5150/5673048473_1a9d4f9a37.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="ohleyfam_04_30_11-143web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5673616392/" title="ohleyfam_04_30_11-118web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5308/5673616392_319481db5b.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="ohleyfam_04_30_11-118web"></a><br /><br />I loved seeing them all interact with each other. They have a lot of fun together. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5673048149/" title="ohleyfam_04_30_11-129web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5147/5673048149_d08b040636.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="ohleyfam_04_30_11-129web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5673616178/" title="ohleyfam_04_30_11-141web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5145/5673616178_f7b68974bb.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="ohleyfam_04_30_11-141web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5673048197/" title="ohleyfam_04_30_11-139web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5306/5673048197_3eecf83278.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="ohleyfam_04_30_11-139web"></a><br /><br />That kiss we had to work for. 11 year olds are WAY too cool for kisses from Mom. ;) <br /><br />Not too cool for THIS though:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5673616426/" title="ohleyfam_04_30_11-103web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5188/5673616426_a00c16019c.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="ohleyfam_04_30_11-103web"></a><br /><br />And on that note, I'm getting ready for my second session of the day. Sneaks coming tomorrow! LOVE being busy again. :)<br /><br />Lots of love!<br />ChantelCNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-71514608932826906282011-04-26T15:54:00.008-05:002011-04-27T14:27:31.668-05:00Relish the Moments | Alton, Wood River, Edwardsville, Jerseyville Children's PhotographerCasey of <a href="http://relishdesigns.blogspot.com/">Relish Designs</a> and I got together again this morning for a second modeling shoot. You can see the first one <a href="http://firstbreathphotography.blogspot.com/2011/04/relish-designsbreathtaking.html">here</a>. I'm always delighted to showcase her work and my children continue to put up with us forcing them into adorable clothing and running them around in gorgeous park settings while in no way allowing them to play on the playground equipment! Poor Nolan and Noah joined us this time and both got completely ripped off as far as playtime goes. Just as we finished, one of my twins fell and gashed the back of his head open. Head wounds bleed. A lot. He's okay but that was the end of our fun. No pictures of the carnage though. LOL<br /><br />As usual we paired my Hannah and Casey's daughter Reece. I love the way their completely different colorings set off against each other (and Casey did an AMAZING job pairing their clothing for this shoot!)Reece is as fair and delicate as they come with her wide blue eyes and pale golden ringlets. Set against my daughter's flashy copper hair and cat-like topaz eyes they make quite the stunning pair. Or at least, we think so... though we might be slightly biased. ;)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5659186574/" title="relish_thehannah_04_2011-113web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5304/5659186574_2815054655.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="relish_thehannah_04_2011-113web"></a><br /><br />The girls have really become best friends. A relationship I encourage both because I love Reece's Mama so much and because Reece is the sweetest, most well behaved child I've ever met. She was born grown, as Casey likes to say. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5658572243/" title="relish_thehannah_04_2011-123web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5065/5658572243_c4bab3665c.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="relish_thehannah_04_2011-123web"></a><br /><br />Isn't that yummy? The light was NOT perfect today but when I snapped that image something magical happened! Another of her beautiful sapphire eyes<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5658695065/" title="relish_thehannah_04_2011-116web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5148/5658695065_7a5308bf1a.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="relish_thehannah_04_2011-116web"></a><br /><br />The bestie, looking annoyed with Mom and stunning even with crazy, wind whipped hair<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5659153044/" title="relish_thehannah_04_2011-115web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5147/5659153044_03b20e6d8a.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="relish_thehannah_04_2011-115web"></a><br /><br />She was not amused with me today... ;) That dress is a new design of Casey's that she made specifically for Hannah (I get paid for these modeling sessions in clothing!!!). It's called, of course, the "Hannah"! <br /><br />This is Nolan:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5658572363/" title="relish_thehannah_04_2011-106web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5268/5658572363_bc90659c36.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="relish_thehannah_04_2011-106web"></a><br /><br />He is Reece's little brother and man is he a sweetheart. I nearly grounded my children for being mean to him last night. Don't be mean to my little Nolan. *growl*<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5658670235/" title="relish_thehannah_04_2011-105web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5067/5658670235_66029467bc.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="relish_thehannah_04_2011-105web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5658670179/" title="relish_thehannah_04_2011-101web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5144/5658670179_7f62b58a1d.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="relish_thehannah_04_2011-101web"></a><br /><br />Notice the bow tie? Casey MAKES those. And she makes regular ties, too. Noah doesn't want to give it back: <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5658670279/" title="relish_thehannah_04_2011-109web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5222/5658670279_87f3d9ccd6.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="relish_thehannah_04_2011-109web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5658572137/" title="relish_thehannah_04_2011-110web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5150/5658572137_b699301749.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="relish_thehannah_04_2011-110web"></a><br /><br />I swear we keep modeling sessions fun and enjoyable for all involved. No children were bored in the making of this blog post...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5659145894/" title="relish_thehannah_04_2011-120web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5065/5659145894_f1d7db0f3a.jpg" width=http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif"500" height="333" alt="relish_thehannah_04_2011-120web"></a><br /><br />Love the designs you see here? In addition to sewing both dresses and making the ties, Casey put together the entire cast of outfits you see. Everything from the hats to the shoes to the coordination across the outfits was created by Casey (you should see her beautifully decorated HOUSE!) Check her out on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/RelishDesign?ref=pr_shop">Etsy</a> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Relish-Designs/152098134852156">Facebook</a> or at her <a href="http://relishdesigns.blogspot.com/">Blog</a>. And tell her Breathtaking sent you! I promise you will NOT be disappointed in your purchases!CNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-34131485690322777402011-04-20T20:30:00.002-05:002011-04-20T20:39:28.083-05:00Levi | Alton, Illinois Baby PhotographerSweet, darling baby Levi. I lurve his little self. I've known his Daddy since we were in, what, middle school? Levi is the spitting image of his father and it cracks me up every time he grins at me. I could snuggle him all day and today I got the chance. Well, he had to take frequent Milk breaks but what 3 month old doesn't? And, as usual, my last shot was my absolute fave.....<br /><br />Is this not perfect? I adore the name on the wall concept. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5638881041/" title="leviohl_4_20_11-102web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5150/5638881041_383654ab7c.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="leviohl_4_20_11-102web"></a><br /> <br />She's a beautiful Mama. :)<br /><br />Okay, Mr. Serious, let's get this party started!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5639456226/" title="leviohl_4_20_11-101web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5142/5639456226_cdb931da61.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="leviohl_4_20_11-101web"></a><br /><br />How about a smile? Pretty please? <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5638881357/" title="leviohl_4_20_11-118web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5301/5638881357_893254ebce.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="leviohl_4_20_11-118web"></a><br /><br />That's more like it!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5639456616/" title="leviohl_4_20_11-112web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5181/5639456616_71075e8ab2.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="leviohl_4_20_11-112web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5638881447/" title="leviohl_4_20_11-110web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5266/5638881447_c5396e9d72.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="leviohl_4_20_11-110web"></a><br /><br />Dude, I promise the bear is NOT going to eat you!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5638881483/" title="leviohl_4_20_11-132web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5263/5638881483_e51a268dc5.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="leviohl_4_20_11-132web"></a><br /><br />Not convinced? <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5638881323/" title="leviohl_4_20_11-131web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5144/5638881323_a5a3e9d2ab.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="leviohl_4_20_11-131web"></a><br /><br />Ok then, we can be done for the day. But I'll be back. Oh yes my little friend. I'll be back. <br /><br />Love, <br />ChantelCNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1144683527047828047.post-51248675157601180852011-04-08T19:56:00.003-05:002011-04-08T20:06:15.134-05:00Relish Designs+Breathtaking Photography=Awesome | Alton, Illinois Children's PhotographerHere's an example of what happens when beautiful design meets good photography on a gorgeous model:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5602009214/" title="casey_model_4_04_11-114web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5067/5602009214_9d28749d09.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="casey_model_4_04_11-114web"></a><br /><br />This is the same darling creature from the snow sessions. Her Mama, Casey, and I went to high school together. As fate would have it, I landed just a block or so away from her when we moved back. And as fate would also have it, she and I have a ton in common and have been spending plenty of time hanging out. In fact, I'm not sure we've gone longer than 48 hours without getting together since we moved! <br /><br />And as you can see above, she's an extremely talented seamstress! I'm always awed by crafty people. She had an "idea" for a dress the other day. Just a concept, mind you. And a few days later I went over there and this had been born:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5601425027/" title="casey_model_4_04_11-111web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5102/5601425027_bdf6e896b9.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="casey_model_4_04_11-111web"></a><br /><br />And it does <span style="font-style:italic;">this<span style="font-weight:bold;"></span></span>:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5602009308/" title="casey_model_4_04_11-108web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5227/5602009308_9da8aca475.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="casey_model_4_04_11-108web"></a><br /><br />Yes, my daughter is begging for one just like it, too. And I may or may not have commissioned a similar style for myself for this summer. ;) It's so soft and comfy looking, I couldn't help myself. <br /><br />Meet Casey of Relish Designs! She's talented, very sweet, and super easy to work with. Her Facebook page is <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Relish-Designs/152098134852156">here</a>, so click and fan her and just wait... we're cooking up fun stuff to come.... <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5601425009/" title="casey_model_4_04_11-104web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5063/5601425009_6a0a0f107a.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="casey_model_4_04_11-104web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5601424945/" title="casey_model_4_04_11-120web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5022/5601424945_8ce6d1d3f1.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="casey_model_4_04_11-120web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5602009256/" title="casey_model_4_04_11-115web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5068/5602009256_96dff0d29d.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="casey_model_4_04_11-115web"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/venusrisingphoto/5601425053/" title="casey_model_4_04_11-123web by Breathtaking Photography, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5062/5601425053_aab0480882.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="casey_model_4_04_11-123web"></a>CNHhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17478646527089888684noreply@blogger.com0