“Shadow Dancer” Wins Third Place in Print Competition

Last night, at the Professional Photographers Society of North Florida meeting, one of my photographs titled “Shadow Dancer” won Third Place in the print competition. The print competition is called People’s Choice and is judged anonymously by the PPSNF membership.

The image features Emily, a young ballet dancer, seated on a black backdrop with only a dramatic side light illuminating her placing most of her form in shadow. A hair light also separates her from the scene. I wanted the image to be dramatic and contemplative while focusing simply on her beauty and grace as a dancer. Thanks to Emily and her mom Lisa for helping to make this wonderful image!

Beverly and Chad’s Wedding

Ok, here’s a story…

Last Saturday, my assistant Stephanie and I were in the elevator at the Omni on our way up to a wedding reception we were photographing for Beverly and Chad. On the ride up, these guys started asking us if we were the photographers. Since we obviously had about 30 pounds of gear with us, I jokingly replied, “No, we’re painters. We like to paint the scenes as they happen.” They started laughing and came back with, “Oh. Kind of like sketch artists!” We all had a good chuckle and when we passed by them later in the day they’d say, “Look! It’s the sketch artists!”

So, we were surprised when after the reception we walked down with Beverly and Chad to the Landing for some sunset photos and ran into those same guys from the elevator who (unbeknownst to me) happened to be Lex and Terry, the popular radio DJ’s! Beverly and Chad are big fans and Lex and Terry were gracious enough to pose for a photo.

This job is always interesting!

Here are a few images from Beverly and Chad’s wedding at Arlington Baptist Church and the reception at the Omni.

Thankful

When I started this photography business I had no idea how hard, challenging and yet rewarding it would be. While we were living in Melbourne, FL my expectations were that I would slowly transition from my job in sales to photography. I had joined the Melbourne professional photographers guild and completed my “basic training” in photography. But, I really wasn’t sure what to do next. Then, we moved to Jacksonville and everything changed. About 2 weeks after we moved to Jax, I joined PPSNF and was so inspired by the professional high-caliber photographers working here. The photography work in Jacksonville is second to none.

I am so thankful to my colleagues in PPSNF for guiding me and inspiring me to always strive for better images that are technically sound, yet impactful and beautiful. I am so thankful for my clients that support me and encourage me to use my creativity and vision to make beautiful images of their weddings, children and families. They truly become a part of my life and I am forever changed by knowing them. I am also thankful for my husband who has always supported me and been a great sounding board for ideas. I am so thankful that I get to wake-up every morning (with no alarm clock) and work at what I love to do. Not many people get to do that.

So, THANK YOU to my colleagues, clients, family & friends for an awesome first three years. I can’t wait to see what the future holds…

Jen

Yoga Images

As some of you may know, I enjoy practicing yoga 2-3 nights a week at a local studio, Yoga Life. The owner of the studio (Sara) will soon be offering a prenatal yoga class and she hired me to create some maternity yoga images. Here are a few images of her we captured at a nearby lake at sunset.

Festival of Trees

Mark your calendars! The Festival of Trees is coming soon! The Junior League of Jacksonville in partnership with the Jacksonville Public Library sponsor Festival of Trees as a great way for our community to come together during the holidays. The event runs November 20, 2007 to January 5, 2008. Scheduled events include an Artwalk, Party of Lights, Children’s Story Time with Mayor Peyton and a Holiday Decorator’s Lecture Series. Please visit the Junior League website for the details. As part of my commitment to Junior League, I provide photography services. Here are a few images from last year. See you there!

Christine and Chuck’s Beach Engagement Photo Session

Last Thursday, I met Christine and Chuck out at the beach for their engagement photo session. We had great light with a beautiful sky filled with pastel colors. Christine and Chuck are planning a wedding for January ‘08, so not many more months to go! I look forward to it!

Creative Senior Portraits

Seniors, if you are looking for senior portraits that really reflect you and your personality it’s not too late! Think beyond the “cap and gown” for portraits that are ABOUT you, not just of you. For a limited time, book your creative senior session for HALF OFF and receive 8 FREE WALLETS! Offer ends November 16, so don’t delay! Call Jennifer direct at (904) 382-7255 or email jenniferbrum@comcast.net. Your session just needs to be booked by Nov. 16, not photographed.

New Holiday Photo Card Designs Now Available

Last night I received a package from my stationary and card supplier with lots of new designs for this holiday. The designs are gorgeous and very up-to-date. These are the perfect way to customize your Christmas or holiday card with your recent family portrait or wedding image.

Current clients can use images from past photo sessions with me (or we can create a new portrait) and new clients are encouraged to book your session now! Session times are filling up quickly. Please call me directly at (904) 382-7255 for pricing info or to schedule your session.

Here is just a small sampling of what is now offered:

Dignity-U-Wear

This morning, as part of my volunteer responsibilities to Junior League of Jacksonville, I spent the morning sorting clothes at Dignity-U-Wear. Diginity-U-Wear is a non-profit organization that donates new clothing for people in need due to personal set backs, natural disaster or other circumstances. This organization is doing awesome work and I just wanted to share their mission of “New Clothes for a New Life” with you just to raise some awareness of this great group. Please visit their website at www.dignityuwear.com for information on volunteer opportunities and to help families in need. Thanks!

Bridal Show January 6 at World Golf Village

Mark your calendars- there’s a bridal show on Sunday, January 6 from 1-4pm at World Golf Village. If you are a bride-to-be stop by my booth and mention that you saw my blog for a special surprise treat! More info to come…