Focal Point Photographics Blog

{The New and IMPROVED Blog!!}

2009-06-04T10:21:00.003-08:00

Come visit the new blog and be sure to update your bookmarks.

We are in STEREO at www.fpphoto.com/blog !!

{CitySpur's Spokewoman}

2009-05-28T20:29:00.004-08:00

Allison is the national spokeswoman for CitySpur (an up and coming search site for travel and local business.) She wanted her headshots to reflect the fun side of what the company is all about. These were some of my favorites...

{Go Dragons.....}

2009-05-28T20:22:00.002-08:00

Julia is gorgoeus and I totally think she should model! We had a lo of fun on her shoot...that black dress brings out her inner diva. Here are a couple of shots.

{Baby Belly}

2009-05-28T19:59:00.003-08:00

So Jules is in the home stretch...less than 6 weeks to go! I talked her in to doing maternity photos, and she is so glad she did. It's so important to document this time....it's over so fast. Have I mentioned I LOVED being pregnant? Among other things...guilt free ice cream eatting.

{Catching up on Senior Season...}

2009-05-28T19:26:00.005-08:00

These guys did their senior session together to take advantage of the beautiful grand piano we had access to(both are musicians). These guys did really well considering they had three women tugging at their clothes and picking their hair.

Here are a few of my favorites..

{Texas vs. Canada}

2009-04-27T21:07:00.006-08:00

Miriam and Adam flew in from Canada for their downtown Austin engagement session. They met at their final medical exams for dermatology (and both passed!) Although they currently practice in Canada, they are hoping to relocate the Texas by their September wedding.

They are such a fun couple...great chemistry and very photogenic.

{Jeanne & Michael}

2009-04-27T20:39:00.009-08:00

Jeanne and Michael were married at the family horse ranch in Fredericksburg. A little bit of a trek from Round Rock, but a beautiful drive! I thought it was so neat to be able to have a piece of their family's history as the backdrop for their big day.

The couple's dog was a guest at the wedding and he stayed by their heels the entire day. Very funny.

These are mostly some portraits from their day, but I had so many favorites!

{I love blue!}

2009-04-27T20:27:00.005-08:00

I loved the blue chair prop (thanks, Kendra!) we had for Kaylea's senior portraits. She really worked hard to pull out her "inner diva", and by the end, she was really into it. Here are a few of my favorites from her shoot.

{PJ+Kris}

2009-03-30T21:21:00.006-08:00

PJ and Kris were married at the Saltlick Pavillion in Driftwood. Much thought and preparation went into the planning of this day...it was obvious with all the special handmade touches (like the favors).

Since these two were high school sweethearts, they had a lot of "hometown guests" and quite a crowd to help them celebrate. Congratulations you two!

{Butterfly Baby}

2009-03-30T21:07:00.003-08:00

Although, black&white is classic and timeless, these days...I love color!! It captures the whimsical nature of childhood. Morgan is such a perfect little model and I love her rolls and gummy grin. Big sister got in a shot too, before the hail came.

We will have to try this one again...

{Judy+Don}

2009-03-30T20:48:00.006-08:00

Judy and Don had a small, intimate wedding at Judy's daughter's home. As a second wedding for both, they really wanted the focus to be on the people that were there...their family. Every grandchild had a special role and it was truly a beautiful day.

{Colleen+Michael}

2009-03-30T20:39:00.006-08:00

Colleen and Michael had a beautiful Valentine's Day wedding at Riverbend's Smith Chapel and reception at Barr Mansion. (I know...I am a little late on the post) Here are a few highlights from the day.

{Trunk Show this Sunday!}

2009-03-18T22:17:00.006-08:00

Come check out this Springs hottest fashions for your little ladies! Enter to win gift certificates for photography ranging $100-$500! All orders placed are eligible to participate in our "Jane Fashion Shoot" in April.

THIS SUNDAY!!

MARCH 22, 2009 at 2pm!

Preview the collection at www.matildajaneclothing.com

Contact the studio for more details at www.fpphoto.com

{Black, White, and a little Pink...}

2009-03-17T20:33:00.004-08:00

Baby Hayleigh and her mommy came in for a 6 week shoot recently. Her nursery is Black, white and pink...so of course we had to incorporate that! She has good genes...she's as pretty as her parents :)

{Carson turns one!}

2009-03-17T20:24:00.004-08:00

...and we celebrated with cake! His first taste of it! Mom asked..."what color icing should I get?" And I said..."whatever color you want to clean off of him!" So why not go all out, right? I think he will be stained for a week, but we laughed so hard watching him dig in...

{Callie+Randy}

2009-03-17T20:10:00.005-08:00

OK, I am starting to feel old. If it wasn't the grey hairs or having two kids, it's this... I did Callie's senior portraits what seems like a year ago, and now {many years later} she is getting married! What?!

Time has flown way too fast. They are so adorable together and I can't wait for their July wedding at Barr Mansion.

{Little Miss S}

2009-03-17T20:00:00.004-08:00

Little Savannah took awhile to warm up, but by the end, she was all laughs. Her parents came in for a maternity shoot before she was born, then moved away, and are now back in time for her 9 month portraits. I can't wait for her 1 year!

{MJ Trunk Show- you're invited!}

2009-03-02T20:17:00.003-09:00

Sunday, March 22nd at 2pm

Come check out the hottest fashions in children's clothing by Matilda Jane!

These unique designs make great additions to your little girl's spring and summer fashions. This clothing line is a great choice for photo sessions and every outfit purchase is eligible for a complimentary session at my Matilda Jane Modeling shoot in April! Plus, drawings will be held for great gift certificates and give aways!

Please call or email the studio to RSVP and bring a friend!

{...and baby makes 3!}

2009-02-27T00:33:00.007-09:00

I met Caroline and Matt when I shot their wedding a few years ago. Their engagement session sticks out clearly in my mind, because I was 38 weeks pregnant and running around the streets of Congress to get night time capitol shots. My husband, Blake, had to follow behind me to make sure I didn't tip over when squatting down!

They fast became good friends and I am honored to document their growing family. Baby Madeline is precious!! They each brought their own personal baby blankets from when they were born...I loved the sentiment that these blankets held.

{Kelly & Eric's Big Day}

2009-02-25T01:00:00.000-09:00

Kelly and Eric had a beautiful (and cold!) wedding at Good Shepherd Episcopal in Tarrytown and reception at the Bob Bullock. I loved the iron centerpieces they used at the reception and the flowers (by Bouquets of Austin) were gorgeous.

{Precious Angels}

2009-02-24T23:03:00.003-09:00

OK, last ones of mine for now. Wow, am I on a roll or what? They just look so angelic. A contrast from the first week we brought Baby M home!

{And here comes Miss A...}

2009-02-24T22:46:00.004-09:00

Miss A is also mine. She is in the (not so) terrible twos and full of mischief all the time! Her favorite thing to do right now is bust into a big *fake* cry...and when I don't respond...says "Mommy! I'm crying!" Very funny.

{Miss M turns 6 months}

2009-02-24T22:34:00.000-09:00

So I usually forget to post a few shots of my own little ones, so here you go! Miss M is 6 months and is quite the little roly poly. She is so content and happy (almost) all the time. If I am not holding my camera, I am holding her (and her big sister) every second I can!

{Rock Star Senior}

2009-02-22T21:39:00.001-09:00

Branson was a such a sport for his senior portraits. He let me drag him all over downtown Austin, but the final results were worth it. He looks like a *Rock Star*! My favorite shots where with his hooded sweatshirt...go figure. The one outfit he just happened to be wearing that day. But it was totally him!

{Laura+Marshall}

2009-02-19T22:06:00.018-09:00

So Laura and Marshall wanted something "green"...hmmm...in February?!?! I am always up for a challenge! They were a lot of fun, and I love the scarf she added at the end!

{Tiffany+Trey}

2009-02-19T22:06:00.008-09:00

We shot Tiffany and Trey's engagements downtown. Her only request was something with the capitol...so of course I made it happen. I loved her purple dress!

I love this shot!

An onlooker...is that Suri?

{i love popcorn!}

2009-02-19T21:48:00.010-09:00

Allison and Ernie had some neat touches to their wedding. Being January 3rd, they had made blankets for guests to wrap up in and planned to serve hot chocolate during their outdoor ceremony at Vintage Villas. Since is was 80 degrees outside, they nixed it...but what a beautiful day it was! Texas weather is so unpredictable.

At their reception, they had a popcorn bar (stocked from www.ilovepopcorn.com). I wish I had thought of that for my wedding! My favorite was the Red Hot flavor ( I know, it doesn't sound good...but I made myself sick eating too much of it!) Flowers were by Bouquets of Austin.

Congrats you two!

{Love the Dress}

2009-02-19T21:46:00.004-09:00

Now that Kelly's wedding is over, I can post some of her bridal portraits! I absolutely loved her dress! It had a hint of gold to it, and looked amazing on her...what a gorgeous bride!

{Lesley+Stephen}

2009-02-19T21:43:00.008-09:00

So I am a little late with this post, but I had to get a few images up from Lesley and Stephen's December wedding. The wedding was at Ten Roc in Salado and they had a Ice Blue theme. I loved what they did with the decorations. May you live happily ever after!

{Introducing Ryan Leigh...}

2009-02-19T21:34:00.007-09:00

I am always impressed when a new mommy can get herself put together (with makeup!) and have their baby's newborn portraits made in the first two weeks (Lord knows, there was no way I was making it out of the house that soon after giving birth.) Shannon looked great (and Dad didn't look too sleep deprived either.) Ryan has such a precious face. Such a sweetie....

Here is the baby announcement we did for Baby Ryan's arrival...

{waiting for ryan}

2009-02-19T21:20:00.003-09:00

So Shannon and Scotty DID make it to their maternity session before she busted at the seams...it was cutting it a little too close though. After having been through two pregnancies, I think it is so important to document this stage. It is gone way too fast...

I just loved being pregnant and have photos of that special time, will be something I treasure always. I hope you treasure these too, Shannon.

{Guess who??}

2009-01-13T06:53:00.003-09:00

Guess who of the Focal Point Staff is pregnant?!?!
(Hint: It's not ME! Promise!)
Congratulations to our office manager, Julie, who is due this coming June.

{Bridal Extravaganza}

2009-01-09T20:55:00.002-09:00

Come see our booth at the Bridal Extravaganza January 10-11 at the Austin Convention Center. We will be having some great give aways and savings on your upcoming 2009-2010 wedding photography. Hope to see you there!

{Why I don't need the gym...}

2009-01-06T21:53:00.007-09:00

The Warrens have three amazing children--all under the age of FOUR! They reminded me of my own family, since the age span is the same as me and my brothers. I don't know how Chelle does it (and I have a new appreciation for my mom:)! High energy ALL the TIME! Shoots like this are how I justify not working out.

This entire family has gorgeous eyes....and those lashes! Although I was exhausted and starving after this session, I love the way it turned out. I don't know how they will narrow down for their wall portraits...this one will need a session album too!

{Baby Gavin}

2009-01-05T19:25:00.003-09:00

Baby Gavin was the best Christmas present his parents could ask for! He was so cute at the session and made the sweetest baby sounds. For a newborn, he was wide awake! He looks like a little angel in the sleeping shot, but that was after we wore him out (or he wore US out) for an hour and a half...

{Bringing in the New Year!}

2009-01-05T19:09:00.006-09:00

We did Allison's bridals at the Tarry House in Tarrytown. Since it is a private club, I hadn't shot there before...but thanks to her Grandma, we had an "in". The facility had these amazing windows looking out over the back of the property that I just loved. Her wedding was the first one to kick off the New Year. Images from that to come later...

{Classic Beauty}

2009-01-05T19:03:00.003-09:00

Lesley was a stunning bridal at her Dec. 20th wedding. I'm still working on her images, but here are a few of her bridal portraits now that I can reveal them. I love her classic elegance.

{Love Matilda Jane!}

2009-01-05T08:10:00.006-09:00

For this shoot, Kaylen wore her new Matilda Jane clothing and was such a doll! She has so much energy and was up for anything. I absolutely love this clothing line and recommend it for little girls 2 years through middle school. They have some awesome styles and paired with some cute boots, make a great outfit selection for your shoot.

{Meredith+Jay}

2008-12-29T17:50:00.009-09:00

Meredith and Jay had an AMAZING wedding at Colovista Country Club in Bastrop last April. We just delivered their album to them and it reminded me of how beautiful the day was. Here are some highlights from their album...

{Let's eat cake!}

2008-12-21T14:40:00.005-09:00

Karen and De had a beautiful November 14th wedding at the Vista on Seward Hill. Since it was also my birthday, I allowed myself to eat cake:) The groom's cake was grandma's special recipe...YUM! The weather was beautiful and love was in the air. Karen was stunning in her dress...it was great for twirling. Congratulations you two!

{Baby, all I want for Christmas is you!}

2008-12-19T20:44:00.007-09:00

It's a rare treat when I get to put down my camera and experience life on the "other side". After a trying attempt at photographing me and my family MYSELF last year, I decide I would make my life easy this year and not play double duty. Thanks to my good friend and staff photographer, Edith, this year shoot was a success! So here are a few shots from the Notgrass Family- my husband, Blake, and daughters Abbie (2) and Morgan (4months).

From our family to yours, Merry Christmas!!

{Copper+Mommy}

2008-12-19T20:26:00.004-09:00

Cooper came in with his Mommy to mark his arrival to the world! Big brother, Colton, tagged along too. I think this was the first newborn session I have ever had were I didn't get have to wash a backdrop afterwards:)
I just never get tired of holding babies...thanks for bringing him in, Ellie!

{Seven and Sassy}

2008-12-19T20:12:00.004-09:00

Jordyn is seven going on seventeen! Sassy with a capitol "S". When her mom saw this image, she said "when did my baby get so grown up?" Her daddy better keep a tight grip on her!

{Classic Christmas}

2008-12-19T19:49:00.005-09:00

I loved this session, because it was so simple...yet it captured the essence of who this family is. Ty and Sydney have the most beautiful blue eyes, don't they?? When they are eighteen, Mom and Dad will be so glad they captured this moment in time forever. Merry Christmas, Zimmerhanzels!

{Favorite Christmas Card}

2008-12-19T19:27:00.006-09:00

Of all the cards I designed this year, I have a favorite. It was very simple, but I loved the impact it had. The Taylor kids were a lot of fun and had a ton of energy. God bless them for bearing through the freezing weather. The photo doesn't reflect the bitter wind chill we were dealt with. It makes me want hot chocolate just thinking back on that day! Below is the card and a few other favs from the shoot.

Here are some other images from the session that I loved.

{Austin Wedding Day Magazine}

2008-12-04T00:48:00.006-09:00

I just found out that one of my 2007 weddings is going to be featured in the next issue of Austin Wedding Day!! I am really excited and will post teh article when it comes out. In the mean time, here are a few pages from Jessica and Greg's wedding album...

{Mr. & Mrs. Smith}

2008-12-04T00:26:00.008-09:00

Misty and Kevin had a beautiful wedding at one of my favorite wedding venues, The Plantation House. They had so many amazing details to their wedding and I just LOVED their flowers!! (Carrie at Always&Forever did them!)

I had to post just a few of the hundreds of great photos...

{Pricilla+Jason}

2008-12-04T00:00:00.005-09:00

What a fun couple! Apparently, Jason had to work really hard to win Pricilla's heart, but she finally said yes. They could not be a more happy couple and I look forward to their wedding at Chateau on the Creek in April.

{The Adams Family}

2008-12-03T23:54:00.003-09:00

The Adams family went for a more formal look for their Christmas portraits this year..I loved the classic black and red. Luke was just a little man...and Maddy is a model in the making.

{Sweet Sarah and Caroline}

2008-12-03T23:45:00.004-09:00

The Blazek girls came in to get portraits before the big move to Dallas. Big Sister Caroline has grown up so much since the last time I photographed her and has such a personality! Baby Sarah has a mind of her own...she reminds me of my own daughter. I just loved their cute hats!

{Sweet Baby Avery}

2008-12-03T23:26:00.004-09:00

So the holiday season has taken it's toll on my blog. I am playing catch up from the past month and want to highlight a few sessions.
The Childs Family came in to photograph their newest addition, Avery Parker! She is like a little china doll and her two big sisters are just as adorable. I loved the pink and brown theme and I want a skirt just like theirs!

{Rustic Elegance}

2008-11-12T21:27:00.008-09:00

Mysti and Tyson had the most beautiful wedding in Salado, Texas. I loved their theme of "rustic elegance" tying together their modern style with their country roots. Every detail was planned perfectly and their day followed suite.

I can't wait to design this album...

{Baby Bear}

2008-11-12T07:57:00.004-09:00

Baby Brayden came in for his 6 (or 7) month portraits, and as always, was all smiles! Mommy Ashley dressed him in Baby Gap...a great choice for baby boys. He looked like such a little man in his tie!
My favorite shot it the last one...it's already hanging in the studio! I think Mommy and Daddy are going to need that one for their home as well...

{Double Take & Big Sis}

2008-11-12T07:48:00.003-09:00

Christie and Brandon have their hands full with a toddler and twin babies. I was amazed at how well they did!! Brih (the oldest) is such a good sister to the little ones. Since they are my neices, I am a little biased...but i think they are the cutest things ever!

{Erin+Tim}

2008-11-12T07:42:00.004-09:00

Erin may be one of the most happy people I have ever met! She is always smiling. She and Tim make such a great couple.

We had the most windy day EVER for Erin and Tim's engagement session....it's always something.
I always say if it's not wind, it's rain...or heat...
Here are a few of my favorites...

{Jennifer+Kenny}

2008-11-07T09:58:00.006-09:00

For Jennifer and Kenny's engagements, we went to the warehouse district in downtown Austin. Kenny was a good sport and, in the end, I think the whole "engagement portrait" thing wasn't nearly as bad as he was anticipating...

{Holiday Cards}

2008-11-07T07:44:00.002-09:00

There is still time to schedule family portraits and have your Christmas Cards before the holidays! Already have a photo that you want to use?? We can take your vacation photo and make custom cards as well (as long as you own the copyrights.)

Here are a few of our fabulous designs...

{Babes in Toyland}

2008-11-07T07:25:00.003-09:00

Come visit our booth this weekend at the Babes in Toyland Market &Style Show! We will be offering fabulous Christmas cards, Gift Certificates, and some discontiuned frames that we need to clear out. You can also schedule our Limited Edition Family Portrait Session that will take place the weekend of Thanksgiving.

Sunday, November 9, 2008
Shopping Noon-7pm
Fashion Show 7pm
Tickets may be purchased online at http://www.rrchaps.org/
Shopping and Fashion Show $40.00
Shopping only $15.00

{Cara's Souvenir}

2008-10-30T21:41:00.010-08:00

Cara and Kelly are an adorable couple who met in Jackson Hole, Wyoming several years ago. Cara brought Kelly back as her souvenir from her trip....and the rest is history.
Their wedding was this month at Villa Antonia and was a truly classy event all around. They are so in love and so fun to be around...I am sad it's over!

Cara, what can we plan now so there's an excuse to do some more photos soon?!

{RRHS New Senior Rep!}

2008-10-30T07:48:00.004-08:00

I would like to introduce our newest Senior Representative for Round Rock High School...EMILY DANKS! If you go to Round Rock, be sure to find Emily to get some great deals on your SENOIR PORTRAITS!

Emily, her mom and I had a great time on her shoot! She brought a fabulous blue dress that really showed off her sassy side. It was a really windy day, but we made it work for us. I love the natural "wind blown" look anyway.

Congratulations on District Playoffs for Volleyball, Emily! Go Dragons!!

{Sweet Savannah}

2008-10-19T09:59:00.008-08:00

This morning I photographed the Gillespie Extended Family and sweet Baby Savannah at her grandparent's home. She was full of smiles and oh soooo cute in brown. Here are a few shots to get you excited, Sarah!

{Laguna Gloria}

2008-10-17T08:35:00.003-08:00

Laguna Gloria is a great place for Bridal Portraits, especially in the Fall and Winter when weather can be unpredictable. Michelle chose this location for her bridals and we had so much fun. For her November wedding, she is going to do a "costume change" from this dress into a beautiful blue evening gown for her reception. I can't wait!!

{It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...}

2008-10-17T07:44:00.007-08:00

Now is the time to update the artwork on your walls before your holiday hosting and take care of family gifts at the same time! There are still a few availabilities for October and November, so call today to set up your session.
Weekday Sessions$150.00
Weekend Sessions $250.00
Book your family portraits now through November and receive 25 complimentary Holiday Cards!

{Plantation House Bride}

2008-10-16T20:34:00.004-08:00

Misty's wedding is coming up in a few weeks and we did her Bridal Portraits at the same venue where she and Kevin will be married...The Plantation House. Lucky for us, it hasn't rained in months, so we enjoyed a beautiful sunny day. (Unlike her engagement portraits, where we were forced to shoot the "wet" look). Here are a few of my favs...

{Baby Blue}

2008-10-16T19:45:00.004-08:00

The Hosch Family came in to do their family photos and Baby Natalie's One Year photos last week. Baby Natalie is such a beautiful baby who is always full of smiles. She has the most electrifying blue eyes that just sparkle with those adorable budding teeth. Their family owns a tire company, hence the reason for the tire shots.

{Baby Braydon}

2008-10-15T13:29:00.005-08:00

Baby Braydon's 6 month portraits are coming up in a few weeks! I can't wait to see how much he has grown since his newborn shoot. I have enjoyed watching this family grow, since I did his Mommy and Daddy (Ashley and Shawn Murphy)'s wedding just a few years ago. I love it when my former Wedding Couples bring their little ones back for me to photograph. Here are a few shots from Braydon's first shoot...

{Evan turns TWO}

2008-10-15T13:14:00.003-08:00

Evan just turned two and is really starting to show is personality! I had a lot of fun on this shoot, although I think his mommy was a little stressed that he blew through his snacks in the first 30 minutes! We got some really cute shots (between mouth fulls of goldfish :) Happy Birthday, Evan!

{Little Bunny}

2008-10-15T12:51:00.002-08:00

My new favorite site is http://www.etsy.com/! It is a great place to find fun accessories for your shoot. That's where I found this adorable hat and there is more where that came from...

Baby Morgan is a good subject right now and really cooperates for her mommy's antics. Hopefully, Big Sister Abbie will follow suit.

{Family Fun}

2008-10-15T12:34:00.007-08:00

The Word Family came in to the studio for Baby Braeden's 6 month portraits. He is so cute! Big Sister Taryn, is pretty adorable herself and we had a lot of fun playing... I loved his baseball hat!

{Ajay turns ONE}

2008-10-15T12:18:00.006-08:00

I have been photographing Baby Ajay since he was born. He is always the happiest child and great in front of the camera. His mommy always has him dressed so cute, and this shoot was no exception. I thought the vintage bear was a nice touch. Happy Birthday, Ajay!

{Fall Harvest Special}

2008-09-30T09:52:00.004-08:00

Fall is here and we are set up with an adorable Harvest Set to have your little ones photographed in their new Fall clothes or costumes! There is no sitting fee for this session during the month of October and special packages are available starting at only $65.00!

The set is best designed for children under the age of 5.

Weekday appointments are still available! Take advantage of this limited time offer and call the studio today to set up your appointment.

Here are a few photos from our last years set...

{Welcome Baby, Morgan}

2008-09-30T04:16:00.004-08:00

I am officially back to work and ready to start the fall season! Although the first "official day" back at the studio was a little tough being away from the baby, I am happy to be back to my old routine.