Hit the road Jack...

and don't you come back no more! Bella's Image has moved! I am so excited to introduce my new blog, the address may change once I have officially changed my website to bellasimage.com (you can reach my website with myposhportraits.com as well) which routes to my site but is not the official address for my site yet. Anyhow check out my new blog for bigger pictures, the latest news, or just for fun! I have secretly been posting some images from Honduras, I still have a few more details to finish up the blog but I couldnt' wait to share it any longer. Check it out http://www.myposhportraits.com/blog

A series of unfortunate events...

Ok, so I'm not talking about the children's book or movie but rather the past week of my life. I really have so much to blog about but am sitting in my car downtown to have wifi access and do not have much time to expand. What I will say is that we had a wonderful trip to Honduras and I have lots of pictures to post, which I promise to share as soon as life has calmed down. We returned home last Saturday evening and took a few days to recoup from jetlag. Now some of you may or may not know that my husband recently received his bachelors degree and is currently applying for dental school. Through our college journey we have been apartment managers in addition to starting my photography business. This Thursday afternoon there was a fire in our building that destroyed two homes. Fortunately nobody was hurt and our apartment escaped untouched. Unfortunately we now have a great deal going on in our lives as a result of this recent event and have been on the phone for what seems like three days straight. For those of you involved in The Dapper Baby modeling I wanted to let you know that we will begin shooting the second week of August. I also want you all to know that if you are trying to contact me I may not be able to reply as quickly as usual as I do not have internet access and may not have it up and running for another month (some cables were destroyed in the fire and they were damaged so badly that we will have to wait for the contractor to start the reconstruction). I will have to head downtown or go to a library for internet access and will do my best to go as regularly as my schedule permits. That will have to sum it up for now, I will try to post this coming week and fill you in on more details and hope to share some great images from our trip. In the meanwhile please keep the families mostly affected by this tragedy in your prayers, neither apartment had renters insurance and they both lost so much.

The judges have spoken...

The numbers are in, the envelope's in hand and the winners are...





Robert K.
Sage S.
Ashlyn L.
Beck A.
Vincenzo B.
Avrie V.
Drew J.
Lucy W.
Jerrin B.
Ciara F.
D.J. F.


We had so many entries, thank you all so much!! All of the children were so adorable, we really had our work cut out for us. Thank you all again and congratulations!

P.S. the winner of the $50 gas card is Rischel L. with almost 100 hits from her blog, wow!

Model Search ends tomorrow!

Just a reminder that the Dapper Baby Model search ends tomorrow evening at 11:30pm PST! A big thank you to all of the cuties who have entered so far(we have our work cut out for us:). For those of you who haven't entered yet, you still have time! Past clients may enter any images from their session as well. Winners will be announced on Thursday, so be sure to check back!

Note: I will be in Honduras from July 4th -13th and will have limited email, I will answer all emails when I get back. Can't wait to post some pictures from our trip!

Two weddings, two graduations, and a reunion...

if you were wondering what I've been up to;) We have been out of town three weekends in a row traveling 3+ hours one way, each time. It's good to be home, it seems like I have been packing and unpacking nonstop for the past three weeks, um, probably because I have! I did a newborn session a few weeks ago, Miss "A" was just a doll, such a beautiful little thing. I have been behind on my blogging since I have been gone so much so I thought I would catch up a bit, I still have more but for now this will have to tide you over;)

I thought I'd throw a bit of a vintage spin on the second one, I love a little vintage:)

You may recognize this little sweetie, she is on my website as a newborn wrapped in a hawaiian blanket, LOVE her big brown eyes! This was one of my favorites from the session.


And, of course, I have to share an outtake...she's still soooo cute!

Object of my affections...

Oh, how I long to hold you, to touch you once again, to hear your soothing sounds. I always seemed to know how to push your buttons, perhaps that's why you're gone. Will I find you someday, used and worn? But alas, I have traded you in for a newer model...





If you are trying to contact me, I have lost my cell phone, you can email me at jennifer@bellasimage.com until I receive my newer model;)

Childhood and gas...

Ok so the title is likely not what you would think;) With the current state on INSANE gas prices I have decided to announce the "surprise" for the bonus gift a little early. For those of you who didn't get the memo, Bella's Image and The Dapper Baby are looking for child models (read the post below) we also thought it would be fun to offer a little incentive for getting the word out, here's the 411 on how to snag the prize:

1. If you have a blog, post a little somethin', somethin' about this contest and create a link to our blog (http://www.myposhportraits.blogspot.com/)
2. A statcounter will keep track of the referring blog
3. The blog that refers the most hits to this site will receive a $50 gas card (now who doesn't need that right about now?) and some of the cutest stationery you've ever laid your eyes on from one of my favorite places, Paper Source.

As you can see it's as easy as 1, 2, 3 (ok, I'm a nerd)

Continued...

Ok, now for the childhood part of my post. So this past weekend I was able to enjoy an extrememly rare luxury, a full weekend to myself! Now don't get me wrong I absolutely ADORE my children and I will be the first to tell you that they are the cutest on the planet (no offense;) but I have to admit that it was hard to resist the quiet lunch with a friend, a pedicure, and spending 2 hours shopping for absolutely nothing while avoiding the urge to make a dash for the nearest exit due to unruly kiddos. I was also thrilled to just relax with a friend and her little girls (I must admit they are a close second for "cutest on the planet";) I brought my camera along, of course, and I know she is dying for a sneak peek. This is for you Rischel;)

Calling all Cuties!

Ok, so I know I promised to tell you about the soon to launch website I have had the honor of contributing some photography to. Well, I have been waiting for the launch before I revealed it but there has been a few setbacks to launch date and I have kept you all waiting long enough so (drumroll please...) let me introduce The Dapper Baby. The Dapper Baby features the latest in children's fashions including Enchanted Enfant, Jean Bourget, Tartine Le Chocolat and incredible must haves for baby. Stop by and mingle with other dapper mamas through online forums, or check out the latest family-friendly vacation destinations. For now you can check out the lovely logo by going to http://www.thedapperbaby.com/ and push the refresh button until it launches;) If you don't want to click the refresh button repeatedly but want something to do while you wait to launch time well I just might have a remedy. Bella's Image and The Dapper Baby are joining forces to bring an opportunity of a lifetime to some very lucky Northwest children. From now until Tuesday, July 1st we will be accepting digital images of your little cutie to be entered into our Fall 2008 Model Search.
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY for what we are looking for:

• Model search starts Thursday, June 12th at 11:30 pm and ends Tuesday, July 1st at 11:30pm (PST)
• Entrants (parent/legal guardian of child) must be at least 18 years of age and live within 30 miles of the Seattle area or are willing to travel to Seattle to participate in the shoot (entrant is responsible for travel/airfare).
• Open to children 6 monthes to 5 years of age, boys and girls. Child must fit into clothing size 6 monthes to 4/4t. Current clothing size must fit comfortably on child.
• Child must be able to sit with little assistance.
• Send a digital image of your child to jennifer@bellasimage.com , image must be NO LARGER than 2mb.
• Each model that is chosen will be required to sign (parent/legal guardian) a model release form authorizing the use of their images.
• Forms must be signed within three days of winner notification, in the event the release is not signed during this time an alternate will be chosen.

THE GOODS:

• Each model that is chosen will receive a package with a retail value of $250 or more, including free portrait session and 8x10, additional prizes to be announced.
• National publicity as featured models on thedapperbaby.com.
• Invites and participation in the West Coast red carpet launch event to be held this fall 2008, including runway event featuring fall clothing fashions (all models will be walking the runway wearing clothing from the photo shoots)

Again, please submit images to jennifer@bellasimage.com 2mb or smaller. Please include your name, number, mailing address as well as the age and clothing size of child. Winners will be announced on or around July 3rd, 2008.

BONUS: Spread the word and receive a special prize. Put a link on your blog to this model search, the blog that sends the most hits to our site will recieve a special prize (a statcounter will keep track of the referring blogs).

Subscribe to Bella's Image blog by submitting your email in the box to the right to recieve the latest news, updates, and contest deadline reminders.

Inspiration...

As a photographer and artist I am always seeking inspiration. I often find this within my children and the world around me, the way the light dances in a tree, Sammy's skip around the room, or Jaden's carefree sense of humor. I also find inspiration from other artists. I am always telling my friends about the beautiful sites I often visit and they always remind me to send them a link (I, of course, forget;). There are three photoblogs that I check daily to see if they've updated, I LOVE them! Amy from Images of Grace has such a gift, her images are playful, have beautiful color and the perfect touch of elegance that I just love. Saving Grace Photography has images unlike I've ever seen before, the bokeh (I just love this word, it means "blur":) in her images are so creamy smooth with a light airy feel to them, simply stunning. And last but certainly not least, Tamara's "From the Treetop" is a real treat for the eyes, her mix of modern vintage and designer costumes (which she so ever talentedly creates herself) leaves me breatheless.

Disclaimer: If you are a blog addict or are a recovering blog addict I must advise that you not click on the links above as this may result in more daily computer time, inspiration overload, or a complete relapse for those who are recovering;)

Enjoy!

She's honey and the bees don't know it.

My baby girl, my love. We went to the zoo recently and had such a good time (my family fit's right in;) Just thought I'd share a few shots of Sammy during our trip to the zoo (Jaden wouldn't cooperate for the camera, imagine that:).




Until next time have a blessed day :)

Baby Announcements!

Beautiful baby announcements are now available! All announcements are fully customizable from wording to colors. I have nearly 20 to choose from and they are printed on beautiful art paper (various paper samples to choose from as well). Announcements start at $45 for a set of 25, please inquire to view all of my samples!

Miss "K"

I have been trying to include a picture with each post since that's why you're here, right? Here is a pic of Miss "K" isn't she a dolly?

Mother's day special ending soon...

Just a reminder that the Mother's day special ends this Sunday, so if you were still wanting to purchase a collection for 20% off there's only 3 days left! Saturday's are filling up fast, for those of you who need a weekend appointment, please let me know. I have one Saturday left this month and only two left in June. Here are a few more pics from the commercial shoot that I've been waiting to share.

Model search coming soon...stay tuned!

I forgot to mention that I will be teaming up with the owner of... (I can't tell you yet:) to shoot the fall clothing lines and we will be doing a model search for children ages 0-4 to sport the latest fashions for the clothing shoot. So if you have a little cutie or know someone who does, stay tuned for the details!

Phewww...

Sorry I have been MIA the past few weeks, I am barely catching my breath! As I have posted previously I have been working on a commercial shoot so I have been trying to keep up with the deadlines so the site can launch on time. In the midst of this I had also volunteered to host a training session for a non-profit I am a part of this week and needed to take care of the food, seating, and some things the trainer needed. Did I mention my quarterly taxes were due as well? I almost forgot...yikes!! Life has almost returned to normal except I also have family visiting this weekend (I am not complaining, I LOVE company...really:) and if you could only see my house after the past few weeks, well, lets just say it is suffering from neglect (don't get my husband on that subject ;0). If you have been waiting for proofs or shipments, I am SO SORRY! I am back in the game and you will be getting my utmost attention. Ok, ok, I know you don't really want to read about my weekly woes, you want pictures, although I am waiting for model releases, I do have a quick shot I can share with you because my little guy was the model (and I give myself permission to use it:) Hopefully I will be able to get the releases soon and share them with ya'll. Have a fabulous day!

I must also add that my son LOVED this outfit, when we put it on him he said "Mom, can I keep this on, can we take it home?". He is getting to the age where he is noticing clothing trends and when I take him shopping he lets me know his opinion, he'll say, "No mom, that's not cool!" how funny!

Are you ready for your close-up?

My latest project has been shooting children's clothing for an up and coming website. Some of the clothing lines include Baby Armani, Niege, and Jean Bourget, just to name a few. I think I'll have to wear my clothing "blinders" for these photo shoots, because they are sooo gorgeous, I want them all! I can't wait to post a few sneak peeks from the shoot. So what is this great website you ask, well, I can't tell you until it's launch date! (hehe)...You'll just have to check back;) Let me just say it is well worth the wait.

My apologies...

to all of the photographers of America, but I think if there were a prize for the cutest subjects, I think my clients would take the cake;) Ok, Ok, so there are plenty of adorable chidren to go around, but call me partial, this little guy was too dang cute! Meet Mr. "C", he enjoys long jogs through the yard, scooter rides, and bug hunting! I am so glad I finally caught up with this family, can you believe we rescheduled four times?! Blame it on the rain, I can honestly say this has never happened, maybe once, twice...not sure, third time should be a charm, but four times!?! Well, without further adieu, here is Mr. "C"...

Curve...

the loveliest distance between two points. ~Mae West

There is nothing more beautiful than a pregnant woman and Miss "R" was no exception. Thanks again for letting me be a part of this special moment...

The definition of cute...

If you were to look up cuteness in the dictionary, you would certainly find a picture of this little man! Mr. "A" was the happiest little guy I have ever met, and what a perfect model! He had this picture taking thing down to an art ;) I just know he will be quite the heartbreaker some day, can you believe those eyes?! He is also quite the miracle, born 3 1/2 monthes early, I was so honored to be his first photographer! Thanks "S" and "D" for letting me meet your very special and oh so cute little man :)

LOVE

Love: a temporary insanity, curable by marriage. ~Ambrose Bierce

Congratulations Jenny and Ty! I am glad you were able to brave the arctic winds for a few peaceful moments ;)

What a gorgeous bride!

After delays due to weather we finally began the bride and groom session when the groom received a phone call (make that two phone calls), it was a little hilarious and I couldn't resist the photo opportunity!

I couldn't wait!

I just did this session today and when I saw the images in my camera I couldn't wait to get them onto my computer! Meet little miss "G" and mr. "E" they are two of the cutest little bitties I have ever seen, they were cute from every angle! This sneak peek is for their mom, I hope you enjoy the pictures as much as I do!

New Music!!

My website music is FINALLY up and running and I couldn't be happier! I actually went with a different song than I planned originally, but I think it's appropriate, check it out and tell me what you think! I would like to possibly add another song, but we'll see. And yes I do have permission, as an artist I would never want anyone to use my work at their leisure (without permission) so, of course, I will give the same courtesy to others ;) I hope you like it!

Double the sweetness...

These little twins were so sweet, welcome to the world little ones!

"You make a living by what you get, you make a life by what you give"

~ Sir Winston Churchill
A little more than four years ago I was pregnant with my first child. Pregnancy is such a happy time of joy, hope, anticipation, and the wonder of new life. I was fortunate to share my pregnancy with my dear friend and co-worker, Sarah*, who was also pregnant and nearly one trimester ahead of me. We shared kicks, hiccups, heartburn:) and of course the eagerness to meet our new little bundles. We had both had healthy, "textbook" pregnancies. After carrying her little girl for 37 weeks Sarah noticed a change in movements (or lack thereof) she thought that maybe the baby was just running out of room. When she shared her concern with others working in the office we all told her to leave the office and go straight to the Dr.'s. As a pregnant mother you worry so much about EVERYTHING; hair dye, paint fumes, movement, too much activity, not enough activity, and the list goes on. We all figured she could go to the Dr.'s, hear the heartbeat and have some peace of mind (after all, this was her second pregnancy and she had never had any complications). She did leave and she did go straight to the Dr.'s office, they could not, however, detect a heartbeat. Again they checked and still no heartbeat, an ultrasound was done and every mothers worst nightmare had just been confirmed, the tiny heart showed no activity, her baby had died. Sarah's husband now had the task of calling the office, family, and friends to tell them the news, we were all in shock and devasted and yet we could not even begin to imagine the pain that they were going through. After several hours of labor Sarah gave birth to a beautiful baby girl, baby Grace*, perfect in every way, born to Heaven. Handprints and footprints were made, a lock of hair was clipped, and photographs were taken, an attempt to preserve her perfection and remember it always. I remember my first visit to see Sarah after the funeral, that is when I learned she had several pictures of Grace taken by the nurses in the hospital. Sarah showed me the images of her first daughter, she was beautiful, with her round little face and the most perfect lips I've ever seen, had I not known the sad truth I would have thought it was a picture of a mother holding her infant as she slept peacefully in her arms. My heart was broken for my dear friend, I didn't know what to say or what I could do to help, what do you say to someone that had just lost something so precious? Sarah later discovered that her otherwise healthy baby girl had died as a result of the mother's body recognizing the baby as a "foreign object" and began to fight against her tiny body. I wish I could tell you this a unique story, unfortunately the tragedy of infant loss affects many families each year. "Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep" is a non-profit organization of photographers, that donate their time and talents to the healing process of families facing the tragedy of infant loss. The "Today Show" ran a special about NILMDTS, which I felt was beautifully done. As an affiliated photographer it is my hope that more people can be aware of this special service that is available. The following clip is a touching story of the gift of photography for a family facing infant loss.

*the names in my story were changed to maintain the families privacy.

Name Change...

As some of you may have already noticed I have a new header on my blog. I am transitioning to "Bella's Image" as my business name. For now you will be able to find my blog and website on the same URL page you have always found them but I will eventually have a new blog and website domain and will no longer carry the "Posh Portraits" name. There is a story behind the change, but I don't have time to fill you in right now, so you'll have to check back! (hehe! Don't you love the suspense?)

Beautiful Boy

Meet sweet little Gabriel, only three days old! I just looove his name, isn't he ADORABLE?


He put himself to sleep sucking his finger. *sigh*

Bella and Max Certificate winner!

Congratulations to Sarah M. of Auburn! Sarah has won a $50 gift certificate to Bella and Max Children's boutique, if you haven't been there you will love it! Congratulations again Sarah!

Newborn session

I am really behind on posting for my blog, I recently had the honor of photographing my friend Shannon's new little guy, isn't he so sweet? Congratulations Shannon and Tyler, he is perfect!


I *heart* baby feet :)

Sooo Busy!

I have been slacking on my blog lately, I know you are all dying to see more of the latest! Actually I have kept quite busy with family and friends lately, it has been lots of fun! My brother-in-law stayed with us for a week and we were able to do some fun photos of him and his guitar...


My sister-in-law is getting married at the end of March, we did her engagement photos this weekend. Here are a few of my favorites from the session. Congratulations Jen & Ty, thanks for the photo op!

I love this picture, what a cute couple!

Are you expecting?...Win a $1000 Stroller!

I recently placed an ad with www.myseattlebaby.com, it is a great resource for moms and moms-to-be filled with local events, boutiques, childcare, healthcare, and more! They are currently running a contest for a lucky mom-to-be that will a $1000 stroller! The winner will be chosen at the end of February so don't delay! For the details click on this link and good luck!

Free Session Winners!

Thanks to everyone that entered, this morning I plugged the names into random.org and the winners are...
Sariah R. of Redmond and Melissa F. of Bonney Lake!
Congratulations Ladies!
I will be contacting you by email to set up your sessions.
Also a reminder that there is still time to enter the Bella and Max $50 gift certificate drawing until Feb. 28th.

Maternity Gallery and reminders...

My maternity gallery has finally been added to my website, to see more click on the photography link to the right!

Just a reminder that the contests will be ending soon so if you or somebody you know is interested in a free children's session or a $50 Bella and Max gift certificate please scroll down for the guidelines. Thanks for visiting!

Do you love me because I'm beautiful?...

Do you love me because I'm beautiful, or am I beautiful because you love me?-Oscar Hammerstein II
Here's one more (couldn't resist) image from Miss "N's" photo session.

Cutie Patootie!

Too cute for words, that's what you are little Miss "N"! I am double blessed when I get to take Miss "N's" pictures, not only is she such a cute model, but I also get to hang with her super fun mom, thanks Cam! I hope you enjoy the sneak peek :)

Put a smile on your face...

Sorry for the blog neglect! I have so much going on right now that this will have to be short and sweet :) A big thank you to all who have been entering the contests, keep it coming, tell your friends, they'll thank you, I promise! Newborns have arrived which means lots of fun sneak peeks to be coming soon (including twins, yay!). Here's a little something from "Britains Got Talent" to put a smile on your face until I can post more, enjoy!

Changes to the contest and more...

I hope you have noticed the changes to the "newborn" contest. Since I have 3 newborn sessions booked in the next two monthes I decided to open this contest to all children under 12. So for all of you with little cuties who are in need of an updated photo or just want a fun, creative image of your child, drop me a note (please read the guidelines below). 2008 is going to be a great year, I have lots of fun things planned, so check back often. I will soon be getting a song for my website, which is still under the licensing process. It is such a fun song, I can't wait to have it up and running! Are you wondering what it is?...sorry, it's a surprise ;) Oooh, something else to expect soon is my maternity gallery and birth announcements! Too much fun...

Two FREE children's sessions...

Hello all!
I wanted to do something fun for the New Year so I decided to offer two FREE children's sessions to some lucky ladies, plus check out my $50 Bella and Max gift certificate giveaway below! Here are the details (PLEASE READ CAREFULLY):

• The child must be 13 years old or YOUNGER on February 25th, 2008 and be available to photograph between Feb. 25th and March 1st, 2008.
  
• Must be 18 years or older to enter.


• Must live within 30 miles of Kirkland/Seattle eastside area.


• TO ENTER, click on the photography website link, go to "contact" and fill in your information. Enter "Free session" under SUBJECT. Enter your home address in the comments section.
• Only one child is eligible for a free session, if you win and have more than one child you would like photographed there is a $25 charge per additional sibling.
• Session will take place in your home or location of your choice (within mileage specifications).
  
• In an attempt to not overload my email, only ONE ENTRY per family please!!


• Each winner receives up to 2 hours of photography and all usable images on a disc.


• Winner(s) also receive (1) 8x10 of their favorite image and (8) wallets.


• Entrys will be accepted between now and February 20th, 2008, 11:30pm PST.


• The winner(s) will be chosen at random when my son says "dat one" (We're really technical around here :)


• Winner(s) will be notified via email on February 21st, 2008 and must respond within 48hrs to claim there session.

More Fine Print...If chosen, the winner(s) agree to allow Jennifer of Posh Portraits by Jennifer to use any and all images from the session(s) for website, blog, or other advertising purposes. To protect the privacy and safety of the children and their families, the winner(s) first name and last initial will be posted only. PLEASE NOTE: If you are entering this giveaway you are consenting to all of the terms and conditions presented.

Phewww... Now that I've got that out of the way, I am so excited to meet the winners and create some great images! Check back in March so you can meet them as well!! Good Luck!

$50 Gift Certificate to Bella and Max!!

I have recently discovered one of the cutest boutiques in the eastside area and I thought you should know! Bella and Max is located in Bothell at the Country Village. If you have never been to the Country Village you must go! There are so many cute little shops from antiques and country quilts to super chic home interiors. Not only is there great shopping for mom, but the kids will love feeding the ducks and chickens that wander through the village. Oh, and don't forget the train rides (yes, there are train rides!). Ok, so what I really want to talk to you about is Bella and Max, the super posh place to shop for your little bittys. Bella and Max carries Neige, Tea Collection, and the coveted Baby Lulu, just to name a few. If the shopping isn't reason enough there is a darling children's salon connected to the Boutique (just upstairs), your little cutie can get his/her hair done while they sit in their own convertible or US Navy jet (while mom shops ;)

Just to let you know how excited I am about my new find I am giving away a $50 gift certificate to use at Bella and Max so that you can experience the shopping bliss!! If you are suffering from post Christmas shopping withdrawls and would love a chance to check out Bella and Max's latest duds with a $50 certificate in hand, drop me a note!

• Go to my photography website (link to the right) and go to the "contact" section. Fill in your info and enter "Bella and Max" in the subject section and your HOME ADDRESS in the comment section.
• PLEASE only ONE ENTRY per household
• Entrys will be accepted starting at 12pm noon (PST) on January 21st, 2008 and ending on February 28th, 2008 at 11:30 pm (PST)
• Winner will be chosen at random and contacted via email on or around March 1st, 2008.
• Winner must be at least 18 yrs. old and must claim their certificate within 48 hrs of being notified.

Good Luck!

P.S. If you should happen to take a trip to the Country Village, listen for the bell, that means a fresh batch of Kettle corn has just been made, yum!

Do you recognize these eyes?

Meet Ms. R, you may recognize her as my cover baby for my website (and I thought she couldn't get any cuter!) I know her mom is dying to see some of the photos from her session so here is a sneak peek! Don't you just love the pettiskirt she is wearing? I have been coveting these skirts for some time now and I finally broke down and bought two! Let me know if you are interested in using one for your next session.