Family Model Rep Announcement {family photographer | Conroe, TX}

So yesterday I posted an update that the jury was still out on the family being selected as Carty Photography's 2011 Model family.  It was a tough decision as there were so many great families who applied but I was able to narrow it down to three families.  I had to enlist my husband to help me decide on which family to choose.  He then begins to look at them as I watch from my warm and cozy chair smiling at him.  He flips through the first and gives a calm and quite "hmmm".  Then the next and another "hmmm".  Then he gets to the third and he looks at me asks, "how many can I choose?" 

When I explain to him there's just one he wants to begin an entire discussion on why am I just picking one and who says there can only be one.  So that even made it harder cause I was no longer thinking which one to choose but should I allow more than one.  See my problem here folks?

That being said, there has been a revision made to this new program being offered by Carty Photography.  Since we absolutely can not decide between the last three families, THEY ALL THREE are being selected to represent Carty Photography to their communities, families, and friends for the entire 2011 year.  Congratulations to the O'Farrell, Wade, and Bryan Families!  I look forward to working with you all.  You should be receiving your family packet sometime next week with more details.

Warm Your Heart Print Weekend Sale {family photographer | Conroe, TX}

Boy, the weather men really called that one wrong, didn't they?  Here in Willis, TX  we were told to expect one to three inches of snow overnight.  Most woke up this morning sadly disappointed to find only ice.  Make no mistake, the roads were covered in thick sheets causing very dangerous situations, however, most did not see an ounce of the white stuff fall.  I think it goes without being said though that its still freezing outside and will continue to be for most of the day.  Because I love my clients I thought it might be nice to help you get your jump start on your Valentine's Day shopping.  From now until Monday, February 7th, I will be running  "Warm Your Heart" Print Sale.  Until then you can enjoy 20% off your next print purchase (previous clients only).  All 2010 galleries have been opened for re-orders.  Enter code "frozen20" at checkout to receive your discount.

New clients, you aren't left out.  Book your session today for any day in March and receive 20% off your session fees.  Use the contact us page via our website to inquire about a specific date. 

Now for the fine print.  Coupon is not valid toward already discounted galleries, baby plan galleries, leather products, jewelry line, or our print packages.

Baby Amaris {infant photographer | Conroe, TX}

Could this little girl be any sweeter?  I don't think so.  She is the first child of her parents and you can tell she's already loved by all around her.  It's hard to believe her mother is old enough to have a child of her own.  It feels like just yesterday I married my husband and her mom was only five.  I've watched her grow, then graduate, get married, and now bring this beautiful lil' sweet pea into the world.  I have been blessed to watch on the sidelines.  I think watching Amaris grow up will be an even better adventure.  I look forward to many more sessions with this little girl.

Dobraski Family {family photographer | Conroe, TX}

Meet the Dobraski family.  She's the school nurse at the school where our girls attend.  She's been patching up boo-boos for years now and the girls just love her.  They were such a beautiful family with lots of personality.  I truly enjoyed working with them.  They knew exactly what they wanted and weren't afraid to speak up.  Look forward to many more sessions with this family.

Dempsey Family {family photographer | Conroe, TX}

Meet the Dempsey family.  Their session was completed at the end of December, but with most things, life got in the way and they weren't blogged.  Don't get me wrong they are VERY blog worthy so today they get their spotlight.

Brianne came to me, as a friend needing a family portrait for a project her and her siblings were doing as a Christmas gift for her mom.  I've officially only "known" the Dempsey family for five years.  We met back when my husband I first bought our house.  We soon met our neighbors, then we met the neighbor's brother and sister-in-law and that's when we soon found out how little the world was.

Our middle daughter Jaymi instantly became friends with their daughter Jenna.  Their birthdays are only weeks apart, their dad's names are identical except for the last names and we all went to the same high school.  Their names are both "J" names as they put it.  We always joke that had we just known our kids were going to be such good friends, we would have made a point to be friends way back in high school.  About a year ago, Bri asks me where I went to elementary school.  When I tell her, she brings this old class picture out and there it is---- an image of toothless me on the bottom row and her husband somewhere in the middle.  We had known each other since the first grade!  WOW!

Now I can honestly say that we've known each other for what feels like forever.  Our family loves theirs and truly enjoys all of our gatherings together.  I felt privileged that she called me for their first family portraits since Jenna was born.  I hope I did them justice and look forward to updating them for years to come!

2011 Family Model Rep Search! {family photographer | Conroe, TX}

At the turn of each new year marks the perfect time for Carty Photography to update its marketing pieces. To do this fresh new faces are needed. Sure, images of family portrait sessions taken throughout the year could be used, but those have already been seen by almost everyone. We want to try something new!

Carty Photography is currently searching for a family to be the 2011 Family Model Reps.

What's the catch?

The family chosen must agree to the following:

• I will be a promoter for Carty Photography. I will tell all my family and friends about Carty Photography and invite them to use Carty Photography for their portrait needs.
• If I am a fan of other local photographers I will remove them from my friend's list on Facebook during my commitement to Carty Photography.
• I will inform Carty Photography of my family's clothing options/choice prior to each photoshoot.
• My family will represent Carty Photography in a positive way.
• I will work with Carty Photography to schedule my family's photo sessions.
• I live in either the Conroe or Willis area.
  

Who can apply?

All family types living in Conroe or Willis may apply. The world is diverse and I want it to show. However, we do ask that the chosen family be no more than two parental figures and four children.


What do we get?

The family chosen to be our 2011 Family Model Reps will receive one complimentary family session, personalized rep cards complete with images of you and our contact info, watermarked images on facebook with your family members tagged and some other fun freebies. In addition, you'll also receive one gift print (8x10 or smaller) for each referral that books a session with Carty Photography. You'll also save 20% on your 2011 Holiday Session prints when you book a full holiday session.

Sound like something your family is interested in? Fill out an app for your family and apply now!  Deadline to enter is January 31st.

The Family Stone {family photographer | Conroe, TX}

Meet the Stone family.  They are return clients.  The last session we had was for Princess J's birthday this summer.  She didn't want her photo taken, but Mr. B did.  This time it was reversed.  Mr. B just was not happy with the plans for the day.  He presented us with a challenge but overall I think we took care of it.  I always love family sessions.

Limited Edition Sessions New for 2011! {child photographer | Conroe, TX}

New for 2011 are Carty Photography's Limited Edition Sessions.  These are 30 minute sessions of your child(ren) in a predetermined theme.  Sessions are $45 are designed for one person.  Packages start at $89 or you may order your prints a la carte via your personal online gallery.

The following sessions are available-  Dates and Times are to be determined.  Please send an email for the sessions you are interested in.  Booking will begin January 1st, 2011.  There will only be one day for each session so be sure to get your name on the list!

January

• Valentine Angels: Halos, harps, wings and hearts
•  Camo Cuties: Your favorite camo gear, boots, and trees

February

• Pirates: Eye patches, earrings, and treasure galore
• Pixies: Tutus, glitter, wands, and wings

March

• Grease Monkeys: Old car, mechanic shirts, red rags and greasy faces

April

• Monkeys on the Bed: Outdoor session with bed, white linens, and lots of fun!

June

• Little Heros: Sessions devoted to your child's favorite hero.  Child can dress up like a firefighter, doctor, soldier, the sky is the limit!

Holiday Sessions, Limited Availability {family photographer | Conroe, TX}

The holiday season is fast approaching and you don't want to be left out in the cold when it comes to your Christmas cards.  Book one of our convenient holiday sessions and receive the prints you want to keep and the cards you want to give.  Availability is limited so book your session today via the BOOK MY SESSION link at the top right.  I have a few slots open on Nov. 20th, 24th, and 27th.

Clark Family {family photographer | Conroe, TX}

I know I say it all the time, but I'll say it again.  I have the best clients.  Return clients are my favorite.  It allows me to watch their family grow and see the change not only in them, but myself as a photographer as well.  This family reminds me of mine and that could be why I find myself emotional when editing them.  Mom and Dad are high school sweethearts and they share their love for three beautiful blue-eyed cuties.  Can't you just see the love?

Deal Me In {family photographer | Conroe, TX}

I just received an order of these that I had made for me personally.  I am amazed at the quality of these cards!  I love them so much that I've decided to add them to our line of products at Carty Photography.  Cards can be personalized with name and year. The deck includes 52 playing cards and 2 Joker cards printed on Pearl paper. Rounded die-cutting, clear gloss coating, and a protective display box are included at no extra charge. These will make excellent stocking stuffers this holiday season.  Contact us for more information.

Custom Name Composites {infant photographer | Conroe, TX}

I have enjoyed this last week designing several requested Custom Name Composites for some special kiddos.  They were added to our product line at the beginning of the year however, we've not had the opportunity to do them yet. 

Upon booking your session you may request a custom composite.  They are available mounted on foam board for $150 and come in your choice of designer frames with the clear glass.  These are sure to be a treasure for years to come.  Custom Name Composites are perfect gifts for the High School Senior who has everything, a new baby, family images, or first birthdays.

Holiday Jewelry Line {Family Photographer | Conroe, TX}

Make the holidays special for her with the newest pieces added to our jewelry line.  With so many options its hard not to get them all!  Stunning sterling silver jewelry can be worn on its own or add charms to an existing piece of jewelry.

  

Fall Family Sessions and Press Printed Cards

Fall is right around the corner and already getting calls for family portraits. This year I will be offering press printed cards. These are not your typical “photo” cards…they are actual cards! The lab I use provides the best short run press printed gretting cards in the photographic and printing industry.

Press printed cards are available in 4x5.5, 5x5, 5x7 sizes, both flat and folded styles. Non-traditional sizes and styles, include a 5x7 wide format, 5x5 Trifold, and a 4x5.5 Accordian are also available. They are affordably priced with quantities as low as 25 and include envelopes.

The most popular uses for press printed cards include baby announcements, high school senior graduation announcements, wedding invitations, thank you cards, stationary and of course holiday greeting cards. If you are interested in booking a family session or know someone that is please contact me online or call 832-515-7698. Please hurry because Fall appointments are booking quickly!

September Studio News { Family Photographer | Conroe, TX }

Carty Photography has some exciting new sessions coming up very soon.  Whatever your portrait needs may be we've got you covered.


Referral Program
Good news travels fast! At Carty Photography, we are honored to have your business and we aim to exceed your expectations every time you choose us.  Now, when you refer a friend you can receive a complimentary 8x10 or smaller portrait.  The sky is the limit -every friend who books a session will bring you another complimentary print.  Good for one 8x10 or smaller print, NO cash value. For new sessions only.  Expires December 31, 2010.


Monkeys Jumping on the Bed!
Do your little monkeys LOVE jumping on the bed?  Join us for our adorable but limited session.  Bring your little monkeys in their fall dresses and slacks, or their favorite pajamas!  This session is best for ages 3-10, and is by appointment only.  Date, time, and location to be announced.


Ahoy There Matey!
Travel to a land unknown and watch your little pirate discover new territories while searching for buried treasure.  This session will be loved by almost any boy or girl.  Come dressed to the tee, parrot and eye patch optional.  This session will be hosted in Surfside, TX.  Date & Time to be announced.


Home for the Holidays
There's no place like home for your Holiday family portrait.  You pick the setting, you set the tone-- casual to formal-- we'll come to your home!  November 1st to December 12th, Carty Photography will be offering in-home family portrait sessions for the holidays.  Availability is limited, so call and reserve your session today.


Get out your calendar and call to reserve your sessions today-- spaces are limited during the holiday season!  832-515-7698 or carty.photography@yahoo.com.

Traditionally Traditional Family Traditions

Gone are the long hot days of summer fun in the middle of August.  School is back in session.  Team players are returning to the fields under Friday night lights. School buses scatter the small town with awaiting children on every corner.  With the welcomed return of fall also returns many family traditions.  They start in October with moms whipping out the warm colors of gold, red, orange, and yellow.  The sweet smell of pumpkin and cinnamon fill the air in almost every home.  Soon after Thanksgiving the Christmas decor makes it into homes everywhere. The warm pumpkin and cinnamon is replaced by an alluring mint and pine.  Shades of green and red deck every wall.  The last three months of the year, in my opinion, are the best part every year.

I don't take change well, never have.  I am what I call "traditionally tranditional". I love the holidays and all that it brings.  I especially love Christmas tranditions.  A few of the Christmas traditions our family has are:

• Everyone opens up two gifts on Christmas Eve.  They are ALWAYS new pajamas and slippers.  This is so mom always has great morning pictures.  We've done it since our first daughter was born over nine years ago.
• We always have our letters to Santa written by December 15th.  We then seal them and put them in a decorated Christmas mailbox that's located by the tree.  One of Santa's elves swing by and pick it up to ensure timely delivery.
• Although my family would like it if holiday music and movies didn't show up till December 1st or later, I am slightly unhinged and start making them watch it with me usually in the beginning of November. I firmly feel there are too many holiday films and just not enough time to watch it before Christmas gets here.
• Our Girl Scout troop participates in the Operation Christmas Child each year.  Our girls put a box together to donate toward this cause.
• Holiday Baking.  Need I say more?  Always a mom and daughter activity.  The girls love to help package it up for our close friends.
• Grandparents will be ginea pigs for our newest holiday trandition.  We'll save that post for another day.  Wouldn't want to spoil the surprise before it gets here.

With all that being shared and said, I encourage you to find new traditions for you and your family to follow.  You never know which ones your children will pass down to their children.  Holiday portraits are great first start.  Be sure to check out our current specials on Holiday Sessions.

Come Celebrate With Us!

You'd better not pout, you better not cry, you better not fight, I'm telling you why....Carty Photography's holiday specials are coming to town!  The holidays will soon be here, and we've got some fantastic events, specials, and exclusive sessions in store for you!

Our CYBER MONDAY sale is Monday, November 29th!  Purchase $100 gift certificates for only $75 each!  Order by phone at 832-515-7698 or email at carty.photography@yahoo.com any time Monday, November 29th.  There are no limits per person, so stock up and get ready to check those names off your shopping list!

This year, holiday cards don't need to be on your naughty list! Our Holiday Card special is a great way to avoid the stress of the holiday season, and save some money for an extra gift or two!  Book your Full Holiday Session before December 1st and receive 10% off your holiday card order.  With a variety of designs to choose from, this is going to be one nice item to check off you holiday to do list.

Attention High School Juniors! Now is the time to get a head start on your Senior portraits! Schedule a portrait session within the month of November and receive 16 wallet sized prints FREE! The sooner you get the perfect Senior portrait, the sooner you can kick back and enjoy your SENIOR YEAR!

Moms, save the planning for the party.  With our new Club Celebrate, all children receive a complimentary session for their birthday.  Enrollment is required and session must be taken during the child's birthday month.  Limited sessions are available each month so be sure to sign your little ones up soon.

A Special Visit

Not many know this, but my senior year of high school, I lived with my best friend.  Her family took me in and treated me as their own child.  Although I have plenty of siblings, a little sister was something I didn't have.  Mari filled that position perfectly!  We had it all....we were BFF's and we got to live together.  We loved telling people the story just to see their reaction to our situation, my situation.  I must admit, it was pretty cool. 

Time has passed though and we're both married with children, and moved up and gone our own ways.  This last week she came home to visit family and friends.  With limited time in her schedule we decided to spend ours with a quick mini-shoot.  I think it was emotional for me since I hadn't seen her in awhile, it was the first time I ever got to meet her baby, and her husband was in uniform during this session.  I have such respect for any branch of the military for the things they do and the things they represent.  Overall, I think we were able to catch some great images their family will treasure for a long time.

Thank you Mari and Raul for the priviledge of being able to take your portraits.  I love that little American girl of yours!

The Clark Family Session

As promised, I'm back to blog about another session done in November. The Clark Family was such a pleasure to work with. Their three girls were just the sweetest thing. Each of the blessed with such big bright eyes. I enjoyed our session in the park before making our way to a local waterfall. So many great shots were taken, it's almost too hard to choose my favorite, although the one of mom and dad dancing in the sunset are pretty close to being the winner. Here are a few for a sneak peak.

Moving Forward...

So recently I had my first newborn photo shoot. I was nervous. Thoughts of failing ran through my head the entire drive over. This was a friend. A good friend. I've known her for three years at least. Why was I so nervous when she had so much confidence in me? I started setting up with only a few ideas in my head of what shots to get. I laid prop after prop and slowly it all started coming together. Mom & Dad were amazed at the results and loved her every portrait. I finished. I lived. It was great. That's it though. I can't ride this thrill forever. I can only move on to the next session.

My next session is a family photo shoot. Also friends. I've known mom of this girly bunch for four years. I was touched and honored when she asked me to do them for her. I'm looking forward to it. Sneek peeks to follow, of course!