Point of View Lens

The time has come...

2010-06-03T10:37:00.001-04:00

Maybe by now you have guessed that the time has come for me to sign off of Point of View Lens and prepare for the next step in my journey. Over the last few weeks I have struggled with ending this blog because it has been like a good friend to me, but the time has come to say good-bye and make way for the next chapter. Allowing myself the opportunity to pick up an old dream, dust it off and breath some life back into it has changed me and changed the course of my destination in ways I am not fully aware. But with every great experience comes great lessons and opportunities. I am currently working on my new website & graphics and hopefully within a month or so I will be ready to share. In the meantime I am focusing on my work, shooting, and this weekend attending a photo Mentorshop held by Michelle Huesgen. Don't you just dig how she calls it a Mentorshop? So tomorrow I leave with my partner in crime, Denise
and I am so thrilled to spend time learning from someone who's work I admire so much. I have been inspired by so many people in so many different ways and I can't wait to see how this weekend will allow me to see things in a new way. So until the next time I sign back on to lead you to my new website here are some things I have been working on. Thanks for checking in and be sure to check back in a month:)

Certainly you remember the tall, stunning, and absolutely adorable Ms. Megan? Well, we did a senior portrait session in the fall and decided to do another in the spring to get more color. Here's Megan in my promo for high school seniors, which is one of my all time favorites, a few from the fall and a few from last week.....

Now meet the soft spoken & lovely Ms. MaryKate.....

More to come and blog about soon!

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T20:43:00.007-04:00

I hope your Mother's Day was as full and as blessed as mine. Here are three reasons why I smile on this day...

National Soccer festival

2010-04-28T07:21:00.001-04:00

Two weeks ago, the Parkview stadium hosted its first non-baseball game and as luck would have it I had the honor of photographing the event for the organizers. The Indiana and Notre Dame men's soccer teams played an incredible game to a crowd of nearly 4,500 people and despite the frigid temperatures it was a perfect evening. Many thanks to Lisa Wylie & Terry Stefankiewicz for trusting me to do this for them and the National Soccer Festival. Here are some photos from that evenings event....

back in the grove...

2010-04-27T07:46:00.000-04:00

Has it been three weeks since spring break? We had the greatest time in Siesta Key and shared it with our great friends the Burkes. Now that I am back in the grove of things and finally back to shooting (yippee) I will post some new stuff tomorrow & share some fun news! Thanks for being patient.

Giving it up...

2010-04-07T06:40:00.003-04:00

Well, I gave it up for Lent anyway. It has been over a month since my last post and to tell you the truth this break has been really good. It's allowed me to reflect on the previous year, while mentally preparing for the coming year. Like I said in my last post,"I think it is important to slow down, be silent and take the time to be truly present in your life". Having time to regroup and honor myself has been extremely rewarding. So as Lent comes and goes and my first photo shoot of the season approaches, I am grateful for the regained perspective that Lent has provided and I am looking forward to the year ahead. So I am back to blogging and looking forward to photographing and sharing the stories of the people I'll be spending time with in the weeks ahead.

thinking it over....

2010-03-08T21:03:00.002-05:00

The last few weeks have left me with very little to say and even less to write about. I don't think this is a bad thing, in fact I think it is important to slow down, be silent and take the time to be truly present in your life, regardless of how difficult it may be. Three weeks ago I watched as my friend Kathryn sent her oldest son Michael in for his 9th brain surgery. And I watched again when the weekend before last, she prepared to go through the process all over again. I also watched as my oldest & dearest friend Carrie suffered the sudden loss of her father. And though I can't quite explain the impact these experiences have had on me, I do suspect that they will be long lasting. I borrowed this quote that Kathryn shared with me, which I think perfectly describes what I witnessed over the last few weeks....

The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.

~by Elizabeth Kubler-Ross

And today I remember Mr. Nichols...

goin back to school...

2010-02-25T10:08:00.000-05:00

So tonight I am heading out to my old high school to check out their yearly fund raiser. Tonight is the preview with the big sch-bang on Saturday and let me just say they go all out for this event! It doesn't seem that long ago that I was helping set up for the event and now I am faced with celebrating my 15 year reunion this fall. For cryin' out loud I can remember when I thought 30 was old, never mind 33! But off I go tonight for an evening of socializing and reminiscing with old friends and maybe do some bidding. This year I donated a senior portrait sitting and below is the piece I put together for the auction. I am biting at the bit to start shooting again and have lots of ideas I am excited to try out. Here are some of the seniors I photographed last year... Can't wait for the upcoming year!

my special valentines....

2010-02-16T14:40:00.002-05:00

I have never really enjoyed celebrating Valentine's Day. Truthfully the idea of being told to celebrate my love for another seems so artificial and insincere. The act of sharing love throughout the year and sharing it in unexpected ways seems like a much better gift. But something happened to me this year that could very well change the way I look at this hallmark holiday. I spent this Valentine's weekend with my very dear friends, the Davis's. For those of you that have followed the Davis family story will remember my last update. But to refresh your memory Michael was heading to the neurosurgeon to determine if or how many surgeries he might need to control his ongoing headaches. Since that appointment, Michael has had countless subsequent appointments, a 3-D Cat scan, a shunt series, a shuntagraph (a shuntagraph is where they inject dye into your skull and shunt to see if it's working properly), and several other tests. Unfortunately, the tests showed the cyst on Michael's brain had gotten much bigger and it was likely the cause of his constant headaches, it also showed that the shunt (the one in his brain, not the one in his tummy) was completely blocked. So this Friday, two days before Valentine's Day, Michael went in for an emergency surgery. The surgery lasted a couple of hours and below is a brief summery of the procedure:

The doctor went into the cyst/brain, tried to repair the tube, couldn't, removed and replaced the tube with a new one from his brain to the port located in Michael's stomach. The doctor then pulled the other section of the tube up from his stomach thru his neck and connected that to the other end of the port. With the surgery a seeming success the hope now is that the headaches will be relived and no further problems will arise.

Don't you just want to let out a huge sigh after reading that? And yet after all Michael went through, right after surgery he met his mother and I with the worlds biggest smile. Over the course of the weekend his mother and I would remind Michael how brave he was and he simply replied, "Yes". I am convinced that no matter how many words I string together it wouldn't be near enough to express my deep love for this boy and his family. Now when I think about my future Valentine's I look forward to spending them with a family that offered new meaning to a day that once had none. Here are a few pictures of the worlds bravest little man...

Just after surgery...

And just one day after surgery...

Michael, I am beyond proud of you! You gave Valentine's Day true meaning and you have more heart than anyone I have ever met. I found this quote and it seemed perfect for you as you get your strength back & heal.

Love,
Miss Jenni

where did the time go?

2010-02-05T11:15:00.001-05:00

I can hardly believe that I sat down almost one year ago today to start this blog. Did you know that I actually took a blogging class? Yep, I even have the certificate to prove it... like having a "certificate" automatically provides you the know how. For me I have to know how things work before I do them, some how this takes the fear out of jumping. And maybe that's the reason for this blog and the one year countdown. It certainly helped answer the questions I was quietly asking myself and provided a constant motivation. So what happens when the clock runs out? Well, nothing right away, although there are plans in the work. I don't feel the need to rush or push the process, only to enjoy the ending of this humbling experience and look forward to the next year and all the possibilities that lie ahead. So the clock will run out and it will do so without any fan fair and I will sit back and feel gratified at the personal accomplishment and give thanks to dreams that never die. Check out this picture I found of myself from high school. Can you say holy prehistoric video camera!

Loechner Family

2010-02-02T09:47:00.001-05:00

Every time I go out on a photo shoot I learn something new. There are always new ways to look at things and if you leave yourself open I think it allows you to keep evolving both personally and professional. And while I am mostly talking about photography techniques, I am also talking about the people you meet and the things you can learn from them. This past summer I photographed some of the smartest kids on the planet and in just one hour I enhanced my vocabulary by 1000 percent. Check out the Loechner family, who's youngest daughter, Charlotte could easily put 'Fancy Nancy' and her fancy words to shame. Meet Connor, Elliot, & Ms. Charlotte....
Here's a funny little side note about momma Loechner... First, she is my neighbor and dear friend and secondly we went to college together and even studied in the same building. She is an amazing artist and you should totally check out her very cool work rachelloechner.etsy.com.

Xclaim dance company

2010-01-28T09:36:00.001-05:00

Over the summer I had the opportunity to photograph Xclaim, a traveling dance group out of Columbus, Ohio. I meet up with the dancers of Xclaim the day after they preformed in downtown Fort Wayne and we had about an hour to get a couple shots before they had to hit the road again. I found this backdrop behind Karen's Antique mall, which had a perfect stage setting and there we set up a couple shots of the group. This is such an amazing group of performers and if you ever get the chance to see them you absolute should. These are just some of the shots I got of the very talented dance group....

an afternoon stroll...

2010-01-27T10:23:00.002-05:00

Photographing families can be so unpredictable. There is always the fear that the kids won't be in the mood to have you take their picture, which has certainly happened to me, or the fear that maybe you won't be able to keep up. But most of the time all the stars align and everything goes well, which is usually due to ditching your original game plan and allowing the kids to lead. When I meet up with Aaron, Carmen, their two daughters, along with Carmen's parents I was more than happy to ditch my game plan and just take a stroll around their neighborhood taking candid shots of the family and of course letting two of the most beautiful girls in the world lead. Looking back at these pictures reminds me of how incredible this family is and what an amazing autumn afternoon we shared. Here are some shots from my time with one of the most beautiful families......

Thank you Aaron, Carmen, Zohe, & Luca! I had the absolute best time strolling around your neighborhood and exploring.

the hall family....

2010-01-20T10:44:00.000-05:00

Could you imagine having seven kids? How about eight? What if I told you that my friend AnnMarie is due with her eighth child in just a few months! To most of us that seems unthinkable, but to know Ben & AnnMarie you would know just what amazing parents they are. Have you ever seen the movie Enchanted? Well, AnnMarie is very much like Amy Adams sing songy character who is always optimistic and extremely likable. I suppose it is in these qualities (and a whole lot more, which AnnMarie & her husband Ben possess) that make a mom & dad capable of having eight children. Here are just a few of the pictures from my fun evening with the Hall family...

Tony's senior pics

2010-01-15T10:50:00.006-05:00

And last but not least we have Tony. Let me first say that I think high school senior girls are rather easy to photograph. They know how they wanna look, they've looked through magazines for ideas, basically they come with their game face on. So when I got the call to do Tony's senior picture I wasn't sure what to expect, but boy oh boy I was blown away! Tony was as easy to shoot as any of the girls and he was a blast. Not to mention Denise joined me that day to lend a hand and add to the laughter.... we dubbed her 'reflector girl'. We had an awesome shoot and it was a perfect way to round out my experience with high school seniors for the year. Tony you were a total champ putting up with all of our crazy ideas!

Tony you set the bar rather high for the future senior boys I photograph. It was great meeting you and I look forward to hearing all about your future successes!

Chloe's senior pics

2010-01-14T08:03:00.019-05:00

Have you ever met someone that is so beautiful that you actually ask yourself why God didn't share a little of that with you? Well, I do because I'm a goof and when I meet Chloe back in November I couldn't help but ask myself that very question. Chloe is stunning... think 1920's classic movie star. It definitely made photographing her a breeze and we managed to go to every location I scouted, which isn't always the case. Here are the shots we got on a cool autumn day...

Chloe, thank you so much for a wonderful afternoon and best of luck to you in the future!

week of senior portraits...

2010-01-13T14:56:00.000-05:00

This week I will be heading out visiting two local high schools and talking about my journey in photography. And while I am super excited, my nerves are about to explode. Talking in groups gives me hives.... I am so praying that it doesn't happen during my talk, which it probably will, but while I prepare it only seems fitting to share the pictures I took this past year of some local high school seniors. Might I add that each of these seniors seemed light years away from where I was in 1995.... did I just age myself? But I was truly impressed with each of these teens, how they saw themselves, the plans they were making. Check out my first senior, Karen who's photos I did this summer and already posted, but because of her I had the pleasure of meeting & photographing her cousin, Megan. I will be doing more of Megan this spring, but in the meantime I wanted to share a few I got this fall of her. Here are a few more of Karen, one of the dynamic due together, and then the ever so sweet Ms. Megan. More to come throughout the week.....

Ms. Megan...

Michael's story...

2010-01-08T08:25:00.002-05:00

You all remember the Davis family don't you? Well, if you don't please refresh your memory by scrolling down to the post on November 13th. Much like that post, I have had trouble writing this one. In fact I have deleted more drafts to this post than any other. Again, and might I add not too surprising, I cry, I laugh, and I start the process all over again. When I met the Davis children I was so moved by their story that I couldn't stop thinking about how remarkable they are and how they had this unknowing power to move people. As I explained in my post in November, Michael is the oldest of the Davis children, he was orphaned, found in what they call a "dying room" in the Philippines, and brought to Riley Hospital for a last chance surgery. He has had four frontal lobotomies and is now facing another series of surgeries. After a long conversation with Kathryn we both agreed that sharing Michael's stories would be a healing endeavor and would bring awareness to Michael's struggles. I took this picture at Michael's first Doctor's appointment after being informed he would be needing additional surgeries. I believe that the power of thought and prayer is a mighty power and I would like to ask each of you to send healing thoughts and prayers to this family as they prepare for news that will determine just how many surgeries Michael will need. Did I mention that Michael calls his mom 'sweetie pie', me 'senorita', and watches the weather channel like it is some great mystery novel? In case you couldn't tell, he is rather remarkable!

I love you, Michael... I am blessed beyond measure just for knowing you!

Fort Wayne derby girls

2010-01-06T21:22:00.000-05:00

At last, the Fort Wayne Derby Girls will kick off their session this Saturday against the Windy City Fury & BrewCity Bruisers at the Coliseum. I love this sport so much and can't hardly wait for Saturday to get here. In the meantime here are some pictures of the session end bout I took last year.....

Hope to see you there!

laugh out loud funny....

2010-01-05T05:58:00.002-05:00

As luck would have it I have a pinched nerve, which has rendered me completely helpless. And as luck would have it I was able to spend most of yesterday surfing the web, thanks to one very attentive husband. And it would just seem completely selfish if I didn't share with you one very funny site. It is my pleasure to introduce you to Sketchy Santa's.... kick back and have a good laugh!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-04T08:16:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year everyone! So much to be thankful for last year and so much to look forward to this year. With a world of possibilities laying ahead I find the need to organize... it's really a way to try and convince myself that I have some type of control over my life... HA! I organized all the closest and lockers, which is a great way to get the new year started. Although it didn't turn out to be a good thing for Hudson, we realized that her absolute favorite pair of Chuck T's no longer fit. I am quite confident that we will be forced to create a shrine to honor the shoes and when we do I am certain it will be blog worthy. Which some how leads me to a few months back when Denise suggested we photograph our kids and their friends all decked with a mix of Matilda Jane clothing. I can't take any credit for the idea or how smashing the kids look, that is all Denise... big surprise, right? But by the time we picked up kids from school, dressed them, and drove to the location, which is a fabulous place I found during one of my afternoon drives we had a limited time of about 45minutes. Anyway it was such great fun and the kids did such a great job just being themselves. And as luck would have it Hudson was wearing her Chuck's. Which brings it full circle. So here's to the fabulous pair of pink Chuck's that brought my little lady of fashion so much joy. Oh, and here are the pics from a super fun day with friends just playing around.....

somebody stop me!

2009-12-30T21:00:00.000-05:00

After every Christmas I find myself in a funk. Not a positive way to begin the start of a new year I know, but when the last gift has been opened, the last holiday toast has been made, and every last house guest has left I begin to feel sad. Even though I look forward to burrowing in for the rest of the winter it still leaves me feeling a bit moody. And to top that off I am feeling slightly emotional. I can't even believe I am writing this because as I do, I can hear my good friend Barry howling with laughter.... he teases me because I am too sensitive and I tease him back because I think he is not sensitive enough. But in the pursuit of seeing this journey to the next stage, I trudge forward with this highly sensitive post..... So please continue at your own risk. Anyway I suppose these feelings could be attributed to any number of things, which have left me feeling a bit raw. My first guess is the clock to right of this post.... it seems to taunt me as it counts down. In addition to that I recently started looking into new website, blog, and logo design(s) and I am feeling some anxiety over it. The truth is that I have been on this journey much longer than just this year. It has been a journey that has been years in the making. My long time desire to be a photographer, my time in college, the many life experiences I have had since, and the ones I am experiencing now. Now after all this time and with all of these different influences I am finally ready to begin, and allow those experiences to define what I do with my work, which I suppose could be the major contributor to my mood. I do find it to be rather amusing however, I never would have guessed this would have been the length or direction of my journey. I do believe that the journey is the destination and in time it will all make sense. But until then I trust that I am moving in the right direction and take comfort from friends. And with that said, I received an email today from a friend, which couldn't have come at a better time and it has offered me great comfort that I am right where I want to be on this journey.... Thank you John!

christmas in a nut shell...

2009-12-27T17:07:00.018-05:00

Is it just me or did Christmas go by in a blink of an eye? Sure, we had been preparing since the day after Thanksgiving, but somehow it didn't seem like enough time. Maybe it's because I love this time of year and I love the time we get to spend with our family & friends and I can't get enough. Even though it went by in a flash, we had a wonderful time and even learned a few valuable Christmas lessons like moon sand is a terrible gift for a three year old, adults are likely to enjoy Santa's visit more than the kids and will likely misbehave, pj's are the perfect dress code for a Christmas party, and sadly Christmas day will never last as long as you want it to. Here are some fun pictures of our Christmas celebrations.....

Christmas Eve snap shots

by Aunt Laura...

Myles & Hudson reenacting the tickle fight from Elf....

Christmas day shindig at our house...

After we host our Christmas day party with family we have some of our close friends over to celebrate. And since our friends are like family it is the perfect way to end the day.

I hope your Christmas was full of much cheer..... Now time to prepare for the New Year!

last years Christmas Wish....

2009-12-24T07:47:00.020-05:00

I can hardly believe that it was nearly a year ago that I started this blog, which began as a quest to find myself once again in an art medium that I love so much. I think back to my time in college and I swear it feels like I was there last week. Now here I am nearly ten years later trying to figure out my direction once again. Is it scary? Absolutely! Am I having the most amazing time? Absolutely! This year was about taking a chance on myself and exploring different directions with photography, an art form that I have always loved. I'm still not 100%, but I know that if there is a camera in my grasp I am pretty happy. What will I do when this year has come and passed... to be perfectly honest I don't have the answer to that just yet. Though I am thankful to all people I have met along the way. And if I said I was honored to have you on this journey with me it would be the understatement of a lifetime. And since last year my Christmas wish was to be photographing again in some capacity, it only seems fair to thank the people that helped make my wish come true. I am so thankful that you entrusted me and accompanied me on this journey, you have given me the most amazing gift! So in no particular order here is what one wish and one year can bring......

The people I have photographed but not blogged about.... yet. You will be seeing more of these beautiful faces in the coming weeks.

Merry Christmas everyone! I hope your day is full of many blessings and much peace!

please excuse the delay.....

2009-12-19T09:04:00.001-05:00

I have come to the realization that blogging can be like a part time job. I really had great intentions of being better and to blog everyday, but that doesn't really look like it's going to happen with Christmas upon us. I really do wish that I could blame it on the holidays, Myles birthday, my birthday, or the sickness that took over our home. And I suppose all of those things contributed to my lack of blogging, but it still makes me feel bad for not sharing the photos and stories of the people I have spent time with recently. I finished up my last photo shoot this past weekend and I am nearly finished processing, printing, and delivering orders before the holidays. As I work on finishing up lose ends I didn't want to miss the chance to send Myles a birthday wish. Interesting tidbit about Myles... Just after my 29th birthday Steve asked what I wanted for my 30th birthday, and without hesitation, it was a third child, which had been the topic of conversation for some time. And without planning we did get pregnant and the due date was my 30th birthday. Cosmic, right? But Myles, in true Myles style, had other plans and came the day before. Needless to say it was the best gift I have ever received. And since I have gotten into the habit of sending birthday wishes to all of my children here is my wish for Myles.....

There are so many things I wish I could teach you now and so many things I wish I could keep you from ever experiencing. However, some of the greatest lessons are those that we must learn on our own. Though I can not protect you from these life lessons I believe that if you know the following things to be true you will find great success in overcoming what lies ahead of you.... Life is full of amazing possibilities as long as you keep yourself open to new ideas. Don't fear change, but embrace it and allow it to transform you. Always remember that things happen for you and not to you, know that your size will only limit you for a short time and once you set your mind to something you are capable of great things. Never lose your playful nature or your ability to fill a room with laughter... both have the ability to cure most anything. You amaze me daily and I am ever so grateful that you were my wish for my 30th birthday. I couldn't have asked for anything better!

Love,
Mommy

funny story

2009-12-03T07:42:00.002-05:00

So Myles has quite a vocabulary. I don't mean like extensive or highly impressive, but more like he has his own language with his own way of saying things. Sure we were worried at first, but the doctor seems to think he is just fine. So we laugh and enjoy his crazy antics. The other week when we went to see Santa, Myles came up with his own way of saying hello to the big guy and it went something like this:

Cameraman: "Everyone look here and say ho-ho."
Vorderman Family: "Ho-ho."
Myles: "Ho-ho sexy"
Santa: "Sexy?"
Hudson: "Yep, he said sexy."

What can I tell you, but that's how we roll in the Vorderman family. It's really kinda catchy.. try it!

My sweet little man last year.... before "Ho-ho sexy"

let the holidays begin

2009-12-02T13:50:00.001-05:00

What a fabulous holiday weekend we had in Indy with our family. I swear it's like Disney to the kids. We did so much that I am not even sure where to begin. A Thanksgiving feast, the Children's Museum, Imax, Christmas tree lighting on the Circle, birthday celebrations, Christmas tree cutting, Steve did a sixty mile adventure bike race, and much more. Here we are at our new favorite place, Stone Creek Farm cutting down our first Christmas tree. What an adventure...

My gorgeous cousin Mandi, who is more like a 4th sister, sporting a very familiar face.... it must run in the family.

I hope your holidays were as blessed and full as ours. Now its time to switch gears and rev up for Christmas... we host and entire day & night of Christmas fun. Can't wait!

long time no post....

2009-11-24T18:14:00.002-05:00

So the last couple of weeks have been busy and have left little time for blogging. But I didn't want to go into the holiday weekend without posting some recent work, stories to follow. Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holiday's. It's like Christmas without the pressure of gift giving. Four days with family is bliss for me... I swear! So without further ado here is what has kept me away...

Wishing everyone a blessed holiday!

up to date

2009-11-18T09:25:00.001-05:00

I can't believe I didn't share this sooner, but I suppose now is better than never. This weekend I participated in my first art show, which I was unable to attended, but heard it was a great success. The title of the show was "Distractions" and 25 local artists came together and through their art described what drives them to distraction. What do you think my piece says? It's so interesting to hear all the different interpretation. I see Christmas cards and holiday napkins in my future.

And a couple weeks back I donated a portrait sitting to the Science Central Auction. I can't wait to meet the family who won the bidding, and spend an afternoon getting to know and photograph them. This is the piece I used for the auction.

I just wanted to share some of the fun stuff I have been up to. Happy Wednesday!

The Davis family

2009-11-13T07:04:00.004-05:00

For the last three weeks I have been writing and rewriting this blog post. I write it, then I laugh, then I cry, and then I start it all over again. I suppose when you are so deeply moved by something or someone it can take the words right out of you. I first began writing about life's gifts, and then wrote a second time about chances, and a third on assumptions. All of which seemed like fine posts, but none seem to do the four people I photographed three weeks ago justice. I have been wrestling to find just the right words to capture and give justice to Kathryn and her three children. So without restarting and hoping I do these four amazing people justice, here goes... I have known Kathryn for sometime now and when I see her out we usually get around to discussing our children. A rather common occurrence for most parents... get a night out and spend it talking about your kids. You wouldn't know it by listening to Kathryn talk about her three children, but each has had to overcome great obstacles just to survive. And it wasn't until several months ago that I learned exactly what those obstacles were. Michael the oldest, was an orphan from the Philippines, found in what they call a "dying room" and brought to Riley Hospital for a last chance surgery. He has had four frontal lobotomies, later diagnosed with autism, but he is most importantly alive and inspiring those around him, myself included. Madison, the middle and only girl has a glowing spirit with a contagious laugh just like her mother. She had been left outside a garden next to the police station in China. She had not been held in seven months. It only took Kathryn two weeks to undue what seven months had done to her young body. And then there is Joe who is a quite soul with searching eyes. His story is hard to describe and even harder to believe. Joe was found drawing on a rock outside of a storefront, which got him lots of attention because of his young age and the intricate drawings. When he was taken in, by another organization, "Chosen Children Village", which Kathryn oversees, he was diagnosed with throat tumors and was suffering from brain damage due to too much lead. Upon arriving to the states the diagnosis continued, which included paralyzed vocal chords and autism. It wasn't until later that Joe was diagnosed at the University of Michigan as a "savant artist", 1 in 10,000 children with autism are savants. Think Rain Man with art! During these years Kathryn found the time to start, "For the Children International Medical Mission Foundation, Inc." and has since found and saved 110 orphans from South East Asia, all adopted now. Are you starting to see why this experience was so big? So three weeks ago I set out to meet up with Kathryn, Michael, Madison, and Joe. I pulled up and was greeted with the warmest hug I have ever had and knew this was going to be one amazing afternoon. So before the words take me over let me introduce to you the Davis family.....

To my friend Kathryn with a zest for life and laughter, which you have so eloquently passed onto your three incredibly beautiful children. I am honored to know you Kathryn, Michael, Madison, and Joe. You have touched my life and I will forever be better for knowing you.

Pickard Family

2009-11-07T07:30:00.002-05:00

I have been photographing a lot of friends recently, which has been awesome practice, but I have had to make it happen in short windows of time and sometimes with my kids in tow.... horror of all horrors! The kids are totally getting into the habit of tagging along on these photo shoots and even offer some unsolicited advice. Hudson has informed me on more than one occasion that she "really doesn't like that shot".... seriously! Jackson has more than enough location ideas, one of which I am using this weekend. And well Myles has enjoyed about 100 dumb-dumb suckers. A few weeks back we met up with the Pickard's, which was an added bonus for Jackson since he got to hangout with his buddy and because Mr. Pickard is also Jackson's baseball coach. Thank you Ray, Kandi, Carter, Peyton, and Preston for a super fun and crazy walk!

Cloud Family

2009-11-06T14:21:00.001-05:00

As you may remember, this past summer I went to the NKOTB concert. While rocking out to my all time favorite childhood band I met Lisa & Sara. Lisa is one of those uber friendly, super personable, and addictively funny people you meet and stay connected with, which is what I did after meeting her at the concert. I met up with Lisa and her beautiful family while visiting Indy a few weeks back. Here is what we got during our beautiful morning walk together. Meet Lisa, Sam, & Brody....

This was such a beautiful morning and I had such a wonderful time with Lisa, Sam, & Brody. Thank you guys for hanging out with me and traipsing around the countryside. BTW, the next time you see the Cloud family there will be one more... can't wait!

Vasell Family

2009-11-04T16:35:00.001-05:00

I can't possibly begin to tell you how excited I was to photograph the Vasell family. First, they were open to all my crazy ideas and better yet they had a few crazy ideas of their own. This is one baseball loving, fun having, full of life family, who were an absolute dream to photograph. Meet John, Kathy, Jack, Audrey, & Ben...

There were so many pictures to choose from that I will no doubt being sharing some during the burrowing months when we can all use a little reminder of warmer temperatures. Thank you Vasell family for inspiring me and for seeing out my vision. I am marking this one down as one of my favorite autumn evenings.

Head above water...

2009-11-01T16:28:00.001-05:00

It happens to me every time! Every time Steve goes away I swear the kids huddle together and take bets on who can be the first to drive me crazy! I can usually defeat them in their attempt to drive me crazy, and to know me is to know that I handle chaos rather well, but I can't even begin to tell you the amount of craziness Myles unleashed this last week. To give you some kind of an idea, he poured Listerine all over Hudson's room, dumped an entire bottle of water into my shoes, threw the monster of all tantrums at the grocery, and hid my wedding ring. There is so much I want to share about the very interesting people I have had the privilege to meet and photograph over the last two weeks, but with just one brain cell left, it makes it rather difficult. Steve is now home and life seems to be settling back to normal. So as I settle back into "normalcy" here's a glimpse of what I've been up to these last few weeks.... Stories to follow when my other brain cells return:)

Mr. Myles

2009-10-28T07:41:00.003-04:00

Heading out to gather the last of the Halloween costumes and thought I would share this picture of Myles from last year. He so rocked this look!

Myles channeling Elvis

men of honor

2009-10-23T07:22:00.010-04:00

My friend Clay recently called and asked if I would photograph he and his son together. Clay is an officer with the Fort Wayne police department and his son Xavier, all of 22 years, is an MP in the Army, and has been serving his country for the last year, overseas. Xavier was deployed today for Afghanistan and won't return until June 2010. I have often wondered how a parent instills in their child the qualities necessary to make them want to go out and serve. I may never completely understand, but I did get a glimpse of what that might be during my time with Clay & Xavier, two courageous men that serve everyday without ever asking for anything in return. Clay wanted something understated and in black & white. Here's what we got.....

Clay & Xavier, I am honored to know you both and thankful for all that you do. God bless & keep you safe during your tour, Xavier. I look forward to seeing you when you return and photographing your beautiful and growing family.

the magic pumpkin patch

2009-10-22T07:18:00.010-04:00

We had a fantastic time this past weekend hanging with family in Indy. On Saturday we went to the world's coolest pumpkin patch (Stoney Creek Farm), this place has everything. So as usual it has taken me a few days to get back into the swing of things. But I have lots of good stuff to share, which I plan to do starting tomorrow. In the meantime here are some pictures from last weekend....

Few more of Emily...

And now the rest of the clan...

Jackson looking very happy after defeating Uncle Larry at a game of chess.... I'm telling ya, this place has everything.

weekend fun...

2009-10-17T16:23:00.005-04:00

Yesterday we packed up the family and headed to Indy for a weekend of family fun. This is my cousin Emily who happens to be one of the most magnetic people I know. I love her with all of my heart and couldn't help but share the pics that I just took of her. And while you're at it take a look at the budding filmmakers latest video http://www.vimeo.com/videos/search:pigeontalk Enjoy!

Happy Saturday!

ms. karen

2009-10-16T07:54:00.003-04:00

The Sunday before packing up and hitting the road with Denise I spent sometime with Ms. Karen photographing her for her senior pictures. I laughed so much during my time with Karen that I wouldn't at all be surprised to learn someday that she became a comedian. Quick witted with loads of charm... not bad qualities to posses! Karen was hoping for something a little different than the norm and I hope she will agree when I say that I think we accomplished that. Here are just a few of my favorites from my time with Ms Karen....

Karen, it was so great spending time with you and getting to know you better. You will no doubt do amazing things with your life and I look forward to hearing all about it. Never lose that sense of humor of yours... you'll need it when you get to be my age:) All the best now & in the future.... thanks again for all the laughs!

workshop continued...

2009-10-13T09:03:00.005-04:00

Do you know the people out there that inspire without trying? They seem to do it so effortlessly and to be in their presence, well, you really never want to leave. I had the joy of spending the week with people that fit that bill to a T. Take a look at the very talented photographers that I had the pleasure of hanging with while attending last week's photo workshop: Denise, Ben Pancoast, Prem & Cheridy, Monika, Jonathan, and John & Beth. When Denise asked me if I wanted to participate in the workshop with her I thought I might have a heart attack. Putting yourself out there for all to see can be a bit unnerving, but it certainly does seem to be part of the process. Doing this workshop was like taking another step in becoming a professional photographer and I learned so much more than just camera & processing tricks. I was reminded that it takes more than just producing beautiful images to be a successful photographer. A kind and genuine approach to those you photograph and those around you, speaks volumes and served as a valuable reminder. I have loads of pictures from the workshop, which I will share more of in the next few days, but in the meantime here are a few of my 'favs'. Tomorrow it's time to switch it up with some high school senior pics!

If you care to know I am shooting with a Nikon D2x, though everyone else at the workshop shot with Cannons.... am I missing something? During the workshop I shot with just one lens my 85mm. My husband (the pro) thinks this will help me understand my lens better, true as that might be it is really hard... I'm kinda a lens hog! Also, I am planning on getting the Nikon D700. Perhaps an early Christmas gift for myself:)

To the new friends I made this past week in St. Joe, I am so grateful to have met you and look forward to the next time our paths cross. Thank you for sharing in this journey with me!

Workshop photos...

2009-10-11T13:48:00.010-04:00

Question. How does one begin to say thank you for the support that they receive? It seems simple enough, you just open your month and say thank you. But what if that doesn't feel like enough? I was speechless to learn that my friend Denise was sending people to check out my blog (via her blog) and even more overwhelmed to read the kind messages and emails I received as a result. What an unexpected and incredible feeling! Those of you visiting because of Denise and those of you that have been supporting me all along... Thank you for taking the time to be here, and thank you for leaving such awesome messages! I love making new friends and I am honored to have your support! To tell you the truth I'm feeling a bit of pressure now that nearly 400 people have been to this little site of mine today alone! Though it does seem like the perfect motivation to keep the creativity flowing. And speaking of creativity it was certainly the theme of last weeks photo workshop. Denise and I met some amazing people and pretty much laughed the entire time. Here are some pictures I took during our first photo shoot in St.Joe. I thought it only fair that the first picture be of my beautiful (inside & out) friend, Denise. And yes, I have thanked Denise a 1000's times and yeah it didn't really feel like enough. I love ya, mama!

Stay tuned for more workshop photos!

Workshop time!

2009-10-04T08:33:00.000-04:00

This weekend I am heading out to my first photo workshop and I am so nervous I could wet myself. There will be some very talented photographers in attendance and I'm so nervous to meet them. I have been wanting to do something like this for so long and I know it will be good to get some objective opinions & perspective on my work. I am also very excited to learn some new tricks. I am going with one of my very talented friends, who is a wee bit nervous too, but together we figured we could win everyone over with food, drinks, and our unwitting charm;) Let's hope it works! In the meantime here are some photos from recent photo shoots....

See ya in a week!

back in action

2009-10-02T07:27:00.002-04:00

It never fails, that when I return home from vacation (um, I mean work) it takes a week or so to get back into the swing of things. It's been another crazy week back with lots of processing, shooting, and scheduling.... I'm already scheduling for next year, no doubt a much needed boost to get me going! While I get back into the swing of things here are the photos from Ben & Jenn's Mediterranean wedding....

FYI, this was not your typical wedding. Ben & Jenn wanted something different and it was so magical to be with them and capture some of their special moments. This is one of my favorite shots that Steve took. Love, love, love it!

vordermanphotography.com

And now a few of mine...

Thanks Ben & Jenn for allowing us to share in this special time with you. xoxo

lost & found...

2009-09-25T10:23:00.000-04:00

This shot is from a photo shoot I did earlier this summer and it happens to be one of my favorite summertime shots. The file ended up in the wrong folder and I had almost convinced myself I simply dreamed it up until I recently came across it, which resulted in lots of squealing. Now time to take it off to Lightroom to work a little magic.

I love how the simple things in life can make you feel so happy.

home sweet home

2009-09-23T07:57:00.017-04:00

Traveling is great, but traveling abroad is even better. We just returned home from two weeks of traveling through Spain, Italy, and France. We photographed the end all to beat all weddings and while there had plenty of time to work on getting images for the upcoming show. While I get my thoughts together and decompress here are some images for the upcoming show. Wish I could share some of the wedding but those are top secret until the reception this weekend. Enjoy!

Going to a seminar with my good friend Denise tomorrow morning at 5am... off to bed. Ciao!

cerajewski family

2009-09-12T11:10:00.000-04:00

I recently spent sometime with our friends the Cerajewski's (say sara-juice-kee). We meet up on Saturday morning to explore some forgotten areas around Fort Wayne. I love finding backdrops that match the spirit of the subject and I love not using the same one twice... unless requested. It's amazing what you can find when you look closely. Here are the photos I took of my good friends the Cerajewski's....

Before every photo shoot I say a prayer that I will be able to see something more than what I have in mind. The third to the last shot is what I got when I let the moment be in charge and not the original idea.... marking it down as one of my summer time favorites. Thank you Cerajewski family for an awesome morning followed by and an awesome lunch at Coney Island!

Ps... Happy Birthday, Jeanine!

Kieffer family

2009-09-12T10:12:00.002-04:00

There's just something about having three kids. First, you're always out numbered, usually out foxed, and for me always out smarted! Last weekend I spent sometime with the Kieffer clan and these three siblings had such an exuberance that I feared I wouldn't be able to keep up, but when I just let them do their thing on their terms it all turned out great. Here's a look at some of the pictures I got while sitting back and observing....

This is one of the things I must remember about kids, they rarely do what you want them to do and if they do, it's only for a fleeting moment. This photo shoot reminded me yet again that I never want to have kids posing and smiling perfectly... think Toddlers and Tiaras. With that said, when kids are photographed on their own terms you get something real, which is something the Kieffer kids did perfectly. Another great shoot with another great reminder:)

no pain, no gain!

2009-09-09T10:49:00.001-04:00

I recently hooked up with my friends Jimmie & Michael to capture the two having some fun together. Everything was moving along quite nicely until we did some stunts that included some running and jumping. That's when Jimmie suffered a little injury that eventually grew into a bigger injury... a sprained ankle. Who ever said creating art would be easy? Here are the pictures I took on a rainy Friday evening. I hope the pictures make up for the injury, what do you think....

Aside from the injury this photo shoot was just way to much fun! I wonder if work is suppose to be this much fun... maybe it is and figuring out how to make it that way is the trick. Thanks guys for entertaining my ideas and allowing me to capture the love you share. All the best now and in the future! xoxox

Weemes Boys

2009-09-08T08:36:00.001-04:00

As most of you know I was, once upon a time, a roller derby girl and during that time I met some incredible women. One such person is my friend Heather, aka "Oreo Slamher" or as my kids refer to her, "The Cookie Crumbler". I met up with Heather to photograph her two adorable boys Jaylin & Donovan and had just thirty-five minutes to do it. Here's what we got durning our quick but very entertaining time together....

Jaylin was totally cracking me up with all of his poses.... the kid was a natural! Thank you Weemes family for the many laughs! Can't wait to meet up again soon!

Bierbaum Girls...

2009-09-06T08:36:00.004-04:00

To keep the trend of "sisters" going, I would like to introduce three of the strongest and sweetest little spirits I know. You know the kids out there that you just fall in love with the instant you meet them? Well, in my case it is all three of the Bierbaum girls. And as luck would have it these three beauties are friends with my three rascals. Check out Libby, Ally, & Emily.....

I hope my kids grow to be as strong & independent as the Bierbaum girls. Thank you Libby, Ally, & Em for giving me a run for my money and entertaining me to no end!

xoox,
Mrs.V

McArdle sisters

2009-09-05T08:37:00.001-04:00

There is such an intimate connection between sisters, where one moment they can love on each other like kittens and the next be so angry they are fighting like a pack of dogs. I know this to be true because I have three sister of my very own and we have been there. But to be honest for me there is nothing better than having another soul that feels like me, relates to things like me, and knows how to care for me the way no one else knows how to. In the last couple of weeks I have photographed three different families that each have three girls and watching them interact makes me think this is just the normal way of things with sisters. I have known the McArdle sisters for years and I had the pleasure of spending last Tuesday evening photographing & observing them interact, and it made me smile as I thought of my own sisters. Here are the photos I took while spending time with three beautiful souls...

Thank you girls for spending time with me! You three are so very blessed to have one another!

Silcox family

2009-09-04T08:36:00.002-04:00

I recently set out on a country drive to meet up with the Silcox family at their country home. It should come as no surprise to you that on my way to the house I got lost, turned into the wrong driveway where I was greeted by a herd of cows, and because I think God loves to play practical jokes on me, the song "Your Not From Texas" by Lyle Lovett, began playing on my Ipod. I had a good laugh, found the correct driveway, and met the nicest family in the world. As it turns out, they happen to be related to my neighbors. I had such an amazing time exploring their beautiful property and catching toads with Max & Harry. Here are the photos I took on a perfect summer evening.....

Jim & Shannon, thank you for making me feel so welcome at your home... it was incredible!

the many faces of libby...

2009-09-03T08:44:00.002-04:00

I felt it wrong not to share these extra pictures I took of Libby during a recent photo shoot with she and her sisters. Libby had such an awareness of the light and camera that I could have photographed her all day long. Check out Ms. Libby doing her thing...

Love Ya, Lib's!

six more down....

2009-09-01T06:48:00.001-04:00

I am suffering from a bit of writers block. And though my friends Sharon & Lisa think I shouldn't worry about it, I just can't help but. Before, during & after every photo shoot I am connecting & learning from the person or persons I am photographing. I love this process and believe it is part of creating beautiful images. The last week and a half has been a whirlwind of photo shoots and I can't help but think that this has attributed to my writers block. So while I search for the time to reflect on all of these amazing experiences here are some photos of the beautiful people I have had the pleasure to spend time with......

devlin sisters

2009-08-27T11:47:00.004-04:00

Over the last few weeks I have been playing out my upcoming photo shoots... searching for just the right locations, playing with new compositions and lighting. This past weekend I finished three of the twenty-three photo shoots I have scheduled for the upcoming months! I say that not to sound pretentious but to say HOLY COW how did this happen! I truly believe that when you are standing in the place you should be the universe conspires great things for you and to be honest and yes, slightly cheesy, I feel like I finally made it back to a place I left so long ago. Most days I say to myself, "How the heck did this happen" but then I read my fortune cookie today and it said, "Don't ask why just accept." I Swear that is exactly what it said and so that's just what I am going to do. I know that I still have a lot yet to learn and in the next few weeks I will share some of the ways I am hoping to do that with some scheduled workshops. In the meantime here are a few pictures of three girls I love with all my heart. Meet Libby, Maddie, & Grace...

Thank you girls for an afternoon of fun! Xoxo

Hudson's first hair cut...

2009-08-25T20:52:00.007-04:00

Just wanted to share a couple photos from Hudson's first haircut today. She donated twelve inches to Locks of Love. Check out how cute she is....

My little girl doesn't look so little anymore! Thanks Suzie Weaver for making my little lady so happy!

isn't she lovely....

2009-08-25T07:01:00.001-04:00

Well we did it! We managed to survive the first week of school and with any luck we will survive all the ones that follow. It seems that for my family we are only able to remember each year by the accomplishments of our kids. This year it was Myles moving into a big boy bed, Hudson losing her first tooth, and for Jackson it was receiving his First Communion. You might remember some of the pictures I posted of the First Communion festivities earlier this year. Recently my good friend & neighbor AnnMarie asked if I would be interested in photographing her oldest daughter in her First Communion dress. And on Friday evening I picked up Leah and we headed to the downtown Cathedral to get some pictures outside of the church. As we were getting some shots outside we ran into a priest that unlocked the church and allowed us to spend as much time as we needed inside. No matter your denomination you can't help but be struck by the beauty of this church and to have it all to ourselves was quite magical. Here are the photos of my time with the very angelic Ms. Leah...

Now onto this year with hopes of accomplishing and learning all kinds of new things!

weekend warriors....

2009-08-23T11:09:00.002-04:00

Just a few pics of the kids playing with face paint...

Happy Sunday!

Grandma Betty...

2009-08-22T08:52:00.005-04:00

A few weeks back I met up with a great friend to take pictures of her grandma. Grandma Betty is my dear friend Kate's grandmother and for more than 3 decades she has rented a lake cottage over the summer months for her family. This is a family tradition you can't help but adore. I have always loved the way photography allows you to tell a story without saying a word. So without saying anything further here are the pictures of my time with a very special lady....

I was so touched by Grandma Betty and I even chuckled a little at her kind and gentle spirit because it matches my friend Kate's to a T. Thank you Katie for inviting me over to spend a little time with your family. I loved every minute!!

first day of school...

2009-08-20T12:04:00.001-04:00

I think this summer will go down in history as the fastest summer ever. Yesterday marked the first day of school and I could swear we were just walking home from the last day of school with a world of summer time possibilities in front of us. Though we did lots and had lots of fun, there is something nice about getting back into the school routine. The kids got up, got ready, did their chores, and had breakfast all before 7:15am. Very impressive! Let's hope this is a trend that continues. Here are the pictures from our walk to school on the first day....

Jackson & Hudson, I hope this year is even better than the last!

summer vacation...

2009-08-18T13:14:00.001-04:00

I no sooner arrived home from my trip to California and we were packing the car and the family for a week away on Lake Michigan. Literally twelve hours later the car was packed and we were on the road. We spent an amazing week on the lake and had a very hard time getting ourselves in the car to head home, but unfortunately school begins tomorrow and we had no choice. Here are some goofy photos of the family at one of our most favorite places on earth...

Bubble blowing contest...

Jackson lost...

Dune buggy ride...

I am sure you are wondering why Myles is not in any of these photos and I have a perfectly good explanation for that. I accidentally deleted all of our beach photos and with it went all of the fun shots I got of Myles running away in fear from the waves. But tomorrow marks the first day of school and that will give me some uninterrupted time with the big guy so you can bet I will be posting some pics soon. Now time for bed since we have to get up at 7am!

where has the time gone?

2009-08-17T11:45:00.003-04:00

Where did the last two weeks go? I swear I was just in California crying my eyes out while saying my good-byes. I had the best trip imaginable, btw! The super duper surprise mission was a complete success and it should come as no surprise that I acted like a kid for the five days I was away. I wish I could blame it on my 15 year old brother or my 18 year old sister, but that wouldn't be entirely true. I did do some sophisticated things like attend the Sawdust Festival in Laguna and the Orange County Fair, though I fear the latter is not to sophisticated, but I am such a sucker for deep fried cheese and dangerous rides! I did a photo shoot on the beach and one of my pregnant sister, which I will share later this week. In the meantime here are just a few candid shots with my siblings....

Love you guys!

I love to travel... exploring new things, meeting new people, and I love the way traveling sometimes forces you to be patient. With that said I have to mention some of the beautiful people I met on my travels. On my flight to Cali I meet a retired surgeon from the Fort, who, like me, was on his way to visit family. The only difference is that he was saying official good-byes to his brother who has been battling cancer for three years and to his ninety-three year old mother. Sitting next to Alan was like sitting next to an old friend. Alan, I am throwing my healing thoughts & prayers into the universe with hopes that they find you. On my flight home I met Kat, a doula with a charming wit and grand spirit and as it turns out, an aspiring photographer. After this encounter I couldn't help but feel like the universe was alining in ways I couldn't possibly imagine. So the lesson here is that great encounters happen all the time, you just have to be open to them. Here's to opening your heart & mind to simple everyday encounters!

Cheers,
JenniV

are you keeping count?

2009-08-08T08:57:00.004-04:00

Here I am hanging in Cali with six of my brothers & sisters having an amazing time, but would you believe it if I told you that I have one more sibling back home in the Fort? Yep, I am the oldest of eight, which just might explain my bossy nature though that will have to wait for a future post. My brother Terry is just a few years younger and a few feet taller than me and to be honest, I think he ropes the moon. Here are some of the shots I got while spending time with my brother's beautiful family....

It's my last day in Cali and I'm off to enjoy one more day at the beach. Here's wishing everyone a happy Saturday!

The Weaver Family

2009-08-06T06:04:00.004-04:00

I recently spent time wandering through the West Central neighborhood with my good friend Sue and her two daughters. If I said that this was a close family it would be the understatement of the century. I absolutely love watching the way these three interact with one another. I swear, there is a magnetic force that draws you into this family and once that happens, it's nearly impossible to leave them. Here are the pictures of my time with the Weaver's.....

I was so moved by the Weaver girls connection that when I got home I booked a flight to Cali to see my family, which is where I am right this very minute! I found this quote that sums up what I was feeling at the time I booked my flight to surprise my three brothers and my three sisters back home...

Carpe Diem, baby!

super duper top secret....

2009-08-04T00:37:00.006-04:00

And the secret plan beings.....

Back in a few days to fill you in.

An evening at the farm...

2009-07-31T09:31:00.003-04:00

When I was younger I dreamed of being Laura Ingalls. Oh, yes I am talking about the Laura Ingalls from Little House on the Prairie. I thought life on the farm would be so charmed.... playing in the creek, climbing in trees, and of course having my very own horse. I never really gave much thought to the chores, the outhouse, or that nasty Nellie Olsen. But when my friend Emily invited me to spend an evening with her family and their horses I immediately thought of my childhood fantasy and I couldn't wait. I spent nearly three hours with the Bermes clan and to be honest I could have pitched a tent and stayed all night. You can look forward to seeing more photos of the farm in the future because Emily offered to teach me to ride.... childhood fantasy coming true! I have to say that the Bermes kids are two of the most well mannered & thoughtful children I have EVER met and I loved every moment I spent with them. Here are the pictures from my time with the Bermes family....

Lesson learned from this photo shoot.... don't wear strappy sandals when you are photographing horses on a farm. What's that saying about common sense not being all that common? Loved this shoot & loved this family... I really don't want to be Laura Ingalls anymore, think I'd much rather be a Bermes!

Vorderman family craziness!

2009-07-31T07:31:00.001-04:00

I am embarrassed to admit it, but we don't have a family portrait of the five of us together. I have recently been shooting a lot of families, which has made me feel slightly guilty that we haven't taken the time to have this done and so this past Friday we decided to remedy that by hiring a professional photographer. We set out with photographer Ben Williams to capture some Vorderman family craziness. I must admit that the anticipation of the day made me appreciate what so many other families go through preparing for a family photo shoot. There are a laundry list of concerns... what will everyone wear, will we get any good photos, will the kids be well behaved, and on and on. But before I entirely freaked myself out I took a deep breath and thought of the advice I have offered the families I have shot, which is just be yourself, wear what feels comfortable, and let the kids be themselves. So with that said Steve & I threw out all notions of having well behaved children and we let the kids pick out their favorite outfits. And what do you know we just got a sample of our photo shoot and guess what... it's perfect! It's us, it's crazy, and it will always be worth the hour we spent slightly stressing out over having the camera in our faces. So the lesson learned from this shoot is, if you don't have a family photo then you need to hire a professional photographer and do it! We're photographers and we did, or one of us is and one of is is trying to be.... I think you get my drift! Truthfully, if you can handle just being yourself then you are sure to have a treasure to last a lifetime. Here are the pics from our time in front of the camera....

Thank you Ben Williams for putting up with us and for giving us such a wonderful gift! Also, thank you to the families I have recently spent time with for inspiring me to do this for my family!

third times a charm....

2009-07-26T07:03:00.002-04:00

When facebook came out I was rather reluctant to sign up. In truth, I am this way with anything high tech, or low tech for that matter. However, I am slowly improving in an attempt to impress my tech savvy husband, case in point starting this blog. So the skeptic in me, signs up for facebook and starts reconnecting with old friends. One of the best connections I have made using facebook has been with a couple I haven't seen in nearly ten years. When I was in college I worked at Arthur Murray as a ballroom dance instructor and I had the pleasure of meeting Bruce and Stephanie. I always looked forward to their lesson because they had this way of engaging everyone on the dance floor and creating ripples of laughter in their wake. So with the help of facebook I was able to reconnect with Bruce & Stephanie and just recently spent some time photographing their family. Here are a few photos from my time with the Schubert family....

This photo shoot was so much for me on so many different levels. Reconnecting with old friends, having Bruce refer to me as "Ms. Jenni" (protocol while together at the Arthur Murray dance studio) and meeting their two kids Zack and Katie. We picked up right where we left off and by the end of our time together I had already begun to miss them. But luckily Zack has the same out going personality as his father and he has already organized a play date. I can't think of a better job to have than photographing families. On each of the photo shoots I have been on, I have created new friendships, reconnected with old ones, and have been a part of creating something that will last a lifetime for someone else. I can't say for sure where I will be in a year, but I think this is pretty close. Thank you Bruce & Steph for being on this journey with me, I look forward to creating new memories with you!

second time around...

2009-07-23T08:21:00.001-04:00

Something happens to me when I am shooting. I swear it is like I fall under a deep spell that is only broken when I take the very last picture. Until that moment I am in a constant flurry of searching, observing and waiting for that perfect moment. It is a moment, a rare moment I think, that sometimes never happens. Think of it this way, someone has a camera pointed right at you, so you do what most normal people do, you pose, you smile and you try looking your best. Well, this is not the moment I am after. I am after the moment that you forget, if only for a second that I am there. Make sense... Anyway I was so afraid I wouldn't be able to do this with two pre-teens and two teenagers, but I was so wrong! Here are four fantastic kids that just happen to be my dearest friend Carrie's niece's & nephew's. Thank you Dustin, Kyle, Katie, & Paige for hanging out with me for a few hours and teasing me about my hobo friend. These are just some of the shots we got from our time together...

As I said before, I am learning a lot and making a lot of mistakes, which I have decided to share after each shoot. And on this particular photo shoot, though I did achieve the look I was going for, it did take a while to get the placement/posing of the siblings just right. I am not a fan of choreographed pictures with perfectly timed smiles, however, I do see the importance of knowing how to pose people so that you can achieve a specific look. With that said, when I got home and shared my challenges with Steve, he told me about this touring seminar that will be passing through Indianapolis & Grand Rapids in the coming months. It is a touring seminar focusing on basic posing, flow posing, and so much more. Check out the link for full details at Pro Light Seminar. Hope to see you there!

Mission accomplished....

2009-07-22T19:12:00.006-04:00

We finally did it! We finally got away as a family and spent some much needed time at the lake this past weekend. We boated, we tubed, and we tried to appreciate the time we had together despite the autumn like temperatures. All in all it was great getting away, if only for a day or two. Here are just a few pictures from our weekend and a birthday wish for my daughter....

My birthday wish for you Hudson is this... That you always embrace your rich enthusiastic spirit. That you honor those that are different from you and allow their unique spirits to inspire you. Don't bully or allow people to bully you. Stand up for what is right, especially when it comes to standing up for yourself. Do what others tell you can't be done. Continue to define and explore your dream as you grow and always stay the course even when it is tough. Learn not to take yourself to seriously and more importantly learn to laugh at yourself! Know that family and friends will always be your biggest supporters and in turn never forget to thank them! And my final wish for you is that you always dare to be different and find peace in the unknown.

Hudson, your favorite pair of Chuck T's will always serve as a reminder that you were once five.

XOXO,
Mommy

On a personal note.

2009-07-16T03:01:00.001-04:00

How lucky am I to be doing what I love to do? I feel it, I sense that it has improved my spirit and I am so grateful for that! However, I have recently been feeling a bit shaky as I navigate through this journey. Why? Well, I am making mistakes! Oh, yeah... lots and lots of mistakes! Each and every time I shoot I learn something new, lessons that I hope will better me in a year's time when I finally take the big leap. I have also been wondering if I am sharing enough of the learning that is taking place. I have had a number of friends ask my advice about shooting and I am so happy to share my knowledge with them. I read this grand book by Paul Arden that said, "Do not covet your ideas. Give away everything you know and more will come back to you. If you give away everything you have, you're left with nothing. This forces you to look, to be aware, to replenish. Somehow, the more you give away the more comes back to you. Ideas are open knowledge. Don't claim ownership. They're not your ideas anyway, they're someone else's. They are out there floating in the ether. You just have to put yourself in a frame of mind to pick them up." Now who doesn't like the way that sounds? In the last two weeks I have been on six photo shoots and with each one I have learned something different and I am going to share that with you in the coming days. This is after all the one year journey of a girl and her camera. So I will share, embarrass myself, and mostly just laugh at my nuttiness in an effort to impart something to someone else. Once I get my thoughts together I will share with you each photo shoot... embarrassing truths and all! Here is a glimpse of what I have been up to over the last two weeks....

I was recently introduced as, "Photographer, Jenni Vorderman" and even though I didn't I have the guts to correct the introduction, it made me smile and think.... not yet, but in time!

a family project...

2009-07-14T16:12:00.001-04:00

Miss Hudson will be turning six on July 20th and we have a family project planned for the next five days, which we have dubbed, "the last five days of being five." Each day we will choose an activity as a family and celebrate as we count down the days until Hudson's sixth birthday. And maybe, just maybe, we'll find a way to slow down summer if only for five days.

This is the way I still see my little girl...

BTW this is a great way to photograph your kids. Make it a point to do this once a month. Happy, sad, rain, or shine, just do it and you will have a treasure for always! I would suggest using the same background each month. That way in a year, two, or three you can look back and really see the changes as they were taking place!

weekend snapshots...

2009-07-12T13:46:00.007-04:00

Weekend snapshots....

xoxo,
Jvo

slowing things down...

2009-07-10T08:17:00.002-04:00

My grand expectation's of having a low key summer have turned completely sideways. It is hard to believe that an 8, 5, and 2 year old could have such full social calendars, but they do and we are running nonstop most everyday. We have finished most of our summertime obligations and my hope now is that we can finally fit in that trip to Chicago, visit family in Indy, and just hang by the lake. Though the moments are far and few between these day, here are some pictures of low key moments with friends.....

Here's to finding some peace & quite this weekend!

props to my hood...

2009-07-09T08:45:00.001-04:00

It's hard to describe just how amazing my neighborhood is. Every day is a mystery... where will we play, who will we play with, and who will stop over for cocktails after the kids are in bed? Tough life, right? But truly, it is a magical place to live and I am so grateful to be here. I believe you gotta say what you feel, so I'm just sayin! Here are some photos from a recent play date with good friends...

A rare sighting.... me in a picture with my boys. Leave it up to a mom of seven to grab my camera and take a pic of me with the boys. I just love it! I hope your day is full of fun & play!

my little all-star!

2009-07-08T07:27:00.001-04:00

Man I love baseball! I spent a summer in Chicago with my Aunt Ally going to ball games when I was ten and I can honestly say it was the best summer ever! Jackson made the all-star team this season and we had such a great time cheering him on. Although the team could only squeak out one win, they played with a whole lotta heart and you just gotta love that! Check out the little sluggers in action...

Until next season...

party, party, party!!!

2009-07-07T08:54:00.002-04:00

Was your "4th" as crazy busy as ours? We attended three different parties on three different days and shared some serious laughs with family & friends. And aside from Myles going into anaphylactic shock from eating a walnut and giving us the scare of a lifetime, it was a safe 4th of July. Here's a peak into our holiday weekend....

Hanging with neighbors...

Dipping....

Laking...

Hope your holiday weekend was full of fun. This week I have three photo shoots scheduled and I am as giddy as a school girl! Oh, I can't wait....

Chris & Molly continued....

2009-07-06T10:32:00.001-04:00

Here are the rest of the images from my first photo shoot with Chris & Molly. This was such a great day and great experience for me. Thanks again guys, for entrusting me. Enjoy...

Chris & Molly you'll always be my first.... xoxo!