My 2021 Skagit Calendar is now available! You can purchase from me directly at: [email protected] or you can purchase locally from Mesman Farm's Farm Store here Calendars are printed here in the USA and are $20 each. Happy to ship nationwide!
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]]>My family is excited for some adventures in 2016. Last year, we took a nearly 7,000 mile journey to visit family and friends on the West Coast. We've purchased a truck, look forward to purchasing a new camper and leaving for some wonderful summer adventures again on the open road.
Looking forward to seeing you in Spring 2016!
-Sarah
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As we approach mid to end of July, my schedule is booking fast for fall already. I've set the date for Fall Mini Sessions to be on the weekend of September 26th and 27th and have added an extra day for any folks looking for a weekday morning spot. I'm still in the planning stages so stay tuned for more information as it becomes available.
I've made a decision recently about photographing weddings and events for 2016. I've decided not to do them next year. That's not to say that I won't do them again in 2017, but I'd like to take the summer off to enjoy with family and friends and weddings are a big deal and quite exhausting. I'm happy to give recommendations for other local photographers for your special day. Please contact me and I'm happy to get you the information. Thank you for your support and understanding.
I've started working on the 2016 Scenes of Barnet calendar and hope to have that to Copies and More sometime in mid-August. Last year's calendar was well received and I'm proud to make another one for folks to enjoy. New this year are postcards made from photographs I have taken locally. You can find them at The West Barnet Quickstop, Too Little Farm Farmstand and Somers Family Farmstand.
Happy Summer!
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May 9th at Darling Hill
Spots available:
2:30 p.m., 3 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 4 p.m., 4:30 p.m
May 10th in West Barnet
Spots available:
9 a.m., 9:30 a.m. 10 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11 a.m.
In case of inclement weather, we may need to change the afternoons to mornings, or change date all together. I cannot predict the weather. Thank you for your cooperation!
Because this event will sell out (it does every year!), a $20 retainer fee is required to reserve your space. This amount will be deducted from your session fee on the date of your portraits. Please contact me for details and to secure your date and time!
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Happy New Year, see you in 2015!
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I will ship anywhere in the USA to those who purchase the calendar online. Please note the shipping fee to do so. I will be glad to combine shipping for more than one calendar, please contact me directly.
You can order online here: http://www.cedarbrookstudio.com/p428535970/h32DA0791#h32da0791
Live locally? Buy locally! Save the $6 shipping and website commission fee.
Happy to combine shipping but I don't have a way to accept credit cards for these calendars. You may mail a check or use Paypal. Please contact me at [email protected]
Thank you!
The time has come to start thinking fall and family portraits for the holiday season! My schedule is a bit limited this fall season so I have dedicated two whole days to fall family portraits. Please see my flier below as I am currently reserving spaces for this event. Because I do my sessions outside, know that if we have rainy weather, we may need to reschedule.
I now require a $20 retainer fee to be paid up front to reserve your space. This is the first time I have done this for an event, but unfortunately it is now necessary. I have had a few 'no shows' and it leaves a vacant space that someone else could have used, or has taken time away from my family. This fee is deducted from your total amount due at your session.
Questions? Please contact me at: [email protected]
Thank you!
http://www.cedarbrookstudio.com/weddings
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I'd like to remind you that Mother's Day weekend is fast approaching. What better way to celebrate mom than with the gift of a portrait session! I'm happy to make gift certificates. Please email me at [email protected] to get started.
Enjoy spring!
If you plan on getting married or need amazing and unique flowers for your special day, please stop by and see the wonderful people at All About Flowers, and tell them Sarah at Cedarbrook Studio sent you! You can reach them at: http://allaboutflowersflorist.com or (802) 748-5656
Here are a few photos from the shoot in Saint Johnsbury.
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Congratulations to #25 Tammy Carpenter! I drew her name via www.random.org this morning after I reached 1,025 likes on my page. Tammy wins her choice of a 16 X 24 scenic print from my collection or a free mini session.
Thank you all for the support!
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As a girl with humble beginnings, I am so thankful and blessed to be doing something I enjoy and have my own small business. Thank you so much for helping me get to where I am today! I'm getting pretty close to having over 1,000 'likes' on my Facebook page, so it seems to me, that 1,000 is a big milestone that deserves recognition as well as a prize to say thank you to those of you who have supported me by choosing me for your portraits, purchasing my prints and referring me to your friends and family. But if you know me, you know that I'm not one to do things the same way others as everyone else does them, so I've decided....let's get to 1,025 likes, not just 1,000!
Please share my Facebook page with your friends and family. Once you & they have 'liked' my Facebook page, please comment below on this Blog Post (not on my Facebook page, I won't see it and it gets too confusing to keep track of both pages) on what YOU think makes a great photo. Once I hit 1,025 likes on my Facebook page, my 7 year old assistant will draw the name of someone from this list, who has liked my page as well as commented here and they will win the prize of their choice below as a thank you from me! I'm not sure when the drawing will be, it just depends on how long it takes us to get to 1,025.
THE PRIZES
One free Outdoor Mini Session w/ 10 images on CD (an $85 value) Must be within 15 miles of Barnet, VT or willing to meet me within 15 miles of Barnet, VT. No expiration date.
*Prints are not included, but able to be purchased separately.*
OR
One free 16 X 24 landscape print from my collection (an $85 value) You do not need to live locally, I will mail it to you!
Good luck to all and THANK YOU for your support!
Cedarbrook Studio's Facebook Page
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]]>Summer 2013 has been incredibly busy for me and I am so thankful! You see, besides being a photographer, I work a weekend job, I'm a wife and mom. Between all of my many 'hats' I've been quite busy. I've been branching out into a few newborn sessions, some maternity sessions, a few commercial projects and recently booked my first wedding - Summer 2014.
In a world where everyone seems to be a photographer these days, I greatly appreciate that folks enjoy my work enough to ask me to capture their special memories. I may not be the cheapest out there, but I know I'm one of the hardest working!
Please be sure to 'like' my Facebook page for Sneak Peeks and updates on specials. Thank you for the support!
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I have been insanely busy with local events including Ryegate Small Animal Clinic's 20th Anniversary, a few newborn sessions, some maternity sessions and I even booked a wedding for next summer, 2014. I am so thankful to be so busy and thankful for your support!
This summer I'm continuing family and maternity portrait sessions as well as a few events including Farm and Wilderness Camps in Plymouth, VT, Art at the Library at Barnet Public Library and a few in the works.
I'm taking reservations for June sessions right now with every weekend booked from now until beginning of June. Some fun events include Pet Portraits for a local Vet Clinic, Mom & Me Mini Sessions and a few Maternity and Newborn Sessions! I've even booked a wedding event for 2014 which I am so excited for.
On a personal note, my family and I recently celebrated the start of spring by moving into a new home in West Barnet. We're so thankful to be in our own home again, it has been a long couple of years since the May Storms! We're thrilled to put down roots again in our favorite town.
Here's a couple of sneak peeks of some of my recent portrait sessions here in the Northeast Kingdom!
Happy Spring!
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Thank you for your past and continued support. Though it has been a long road, I'd certainly not be here without your support!
]]>Please also note that I will be moving this spring and this particular location (maple sugarbush and the funky green bus) will no longer be a part of my sessions, so if you want some photos in this fun location, this is your last chance! On a positive note, I'll be in a new location here in Barnet with an acre of landscaped gardens, trellises, trees and benches so I look forward to having future sessions at my new location!
Please give me a call at (802) 274-6941 or email me at [email protected] to reserve your time slot!
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I just want to take a moment to thank you all for the support you've provided this girl with humble beginnings. I'm still a work in progress, but thanks to you I... look forward to a promising year in 2013. Your continued business, referrals, kind words and support has meant the world to me. Thank You.
Though it's a few months off, I'm already booking into Spring 2013, my first bookings are in late March. I'm tentatively scheduling a 2nd Annual Mom & Me Mother's Day Mini Session for Sunday April 28, 2013. Check out my website for available times. I'm still working out the details so stay tuned.
While you may not see me here as often during these quiet months (though I'm still happy to do portraits if it's not too cold), you can send me a message at any time and I'll certainly get back to you: ceda[email protected] or give me a call or text at 802-274-6941
Again thank you for the support and for a fantastic 2012. See you again in 2013!
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I'm excited for 2013 and what that may bring! I've been asked numerous times if I'd consider Wedding Portraiture. I would consider being a second shooter for weddings, so any photogs out there looking for a second shooter, please contact me. There are several amazingly talented wedding photographers here in my area already, so I want to find a niche that works for you, and for me. As you know, I'm all about being as affordable as I can be, so I have not really made up my mind about being a solo photographer for weddings on a regular basis. That said, anyone who contacts me about weddings, I'm more than happy to talk with you to see if I can provide what you are looking for. If I can't, I'm happy to refer you to another local photographer that I feel can.
I'm so greatful for the support I've received in 2012 from my clients, referrals and fellow photographers. This is not an easy business to be in. There are a lot of us around here, and amazing ones at that, so in order to stay competitive I do my best to make portraits affordable for families. Thank you all for your past and continued support this year! I look forward to some mini-sessions, maybe a few weddings or celebrations and of course some contests!
Wishing you and yours a Very Happy Holiday Season,
Sarah
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I've got something special for my November and December sessions. Please book sooner than later so that you don't miss out!
]]>That was a funny (and truthful) saying I heard recently and it is very true! I've been keeping very busy with 2-3 sessions every week, which is just about the maximum I can safely handle right now. I just topped 650 'likes' on my Facebook page too! Things 'round these parts are mighty brisk and I enjoy being busy. I consider it a blessing especially considering every day there are more and more people picking up a camera and deciding to go into business for themselves.
While I may not be the most flashy (or pricey) and have the fanciest equipment out there, I am proud that I have been in business (and survived!) a year and improved considerably during that time. I still have a lot to learn, but that is the beauty of it. I make time every day to research, learn new techniques, network with other businesses and photographers in my area. I also make time to give back to my community, because that's why I'm here in the first place. Thank you to all of you who have supported me from the very beginning!
Last weekend I had the honor of being the sole photographer at St. Johnsbury Academy for Resident Parent's Weekend. It was a wonderful opportunity to meet some bright young people and their families and capture a memorial weekend for them. Next week I look forward to providing some images for a local preschool for their advertisement fliers. And at the end of November, I look forward to once again donating my time and talent to Barnet Public Library to help them raise money for books and children's programs.
Most things in life are moments of pleasure and a lifetime of embarrassment;
photography is a moment of embarrassment and a lifetime of pleasure. ~Tony Benn
I've been booked solid every weekend, some sessions even mid-week and I'm still booked solid until late October. I've neglected my blog and website a bit, but I do have some images to share. The fall colors this year are amazing. Reds and oranges are phenominal!
Hope you enjoy some images from the past few weeks!
Since there are so many of us to choose from, how do you choose the right person for your needs? Here are a few suggestions that I have when choosing to go with a photographer, whether it is me or someone else:
Take a look at their portfolio. Do they have a lot of unique images with different people, or are they mostly the same people in each photo? Look at the lighting in the photos and the quality of the images. Are the colors the right shades? Are there a lot of shadows or 'blown out' spots in the photos? What is it you like best about this person's portfolio? Determine what this is and then make a small list of the type of photos you are looking from for your own session.
Don't just go by price. Sometimes you really get what you pay for. While I may charge a bit more than some folks out there, I simply cannot imagine doing a quality photo session, an hour of my time shooting plus a few hours editing, for $25-30. I realize some out there are doing this, but for me, I just cannot imagine how someone could spend a quality amount of time and charge so little. Compare the quality of the images, not just price.
Do they pay state sales tax and are a registered business? This one is very important to me. I may be small with only about 4-6 small bookings a month, but I record all sales, pay 6 percent sales tax and I am a registered business. It is very important to me to be ethical and pay my dues, even if I don't make a lot of money doing it.
When you contact the photographer, are they prompt and courteous in their communication? Recently I had a person contact me because another photographer never got back to them. I was just amazed that someone could not give another person the decency of a quick phone call or email. Treat others how you would like to be treated!
Those are just a few things that I would consider when choosing someone to take photos for you. Ultimately the choice is up to you, and there are a lot of us out there!
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Late summer and early fall are such a wonderful time of year for portraits! Apparently some of you think so too. I've been booked solid from September until nearly the end of October on weekends! Still looking to squeeze in a portrait session? Your best bet might be mid-week if you'd like to have Cedarbrook Studio take photos for you. Otherwise I do know some perfectly capable and able photographer friends nearby that I could recommend.
Someone asked me the other day about editing and I figured I would take a moment to talk about the way I edit. I use a program called "Lightroom" which is the sister product to Photoshop. I have used Photoshop somewhat but I really do prefer Lightroom. I like to do light editing, but I really don't like to over-do it. I generally remove blemishes, wrinkles, dark circles, things of that sort but I figure it is easy to over-edit and what is the point if the picture doesn't really look like you? I do use a few 'presets' thru Lightroom for more dramatic images but generally I just hand edit each photo myself, to my style. It generally takes me about 2 hours to edit for one regular session.
My style might not be for everyone, but that is the beauty of 'art' through my eyes!
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As we get prepared to say goodbye to summer, the sweaters come out of the closet, soup and bread once again become staples in our dinner menus and we dust off the snow shovels in preparation of what is to come. It also means the holidays are only a few months away. MONTHS, can you believe it?
Fall is my favorite time of year. The air is a little crisper, the leaves a bit more colorful and the hot coffee on a cool, foggy morning tastes a bit sweeter. It's also a great time to take advantage of Mother Nature's Fireworks show, also known as Fall Foliage here in the Northeast Kingdom.
It's also my 1st year anniversary of Cedarbrook Studio! In honor of this amazing accomplishment I'm offering a special anniversary package for September! 1/2 hour session with your choice of 10 digital images on cd for $75. I've got a few weekend spots left but I do anticipate they will fill, so please contact me sooner than later to reserve yours!
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Last weekend I had the honor of photographing a little guy that I met last fall. He is such a fun little guy with a wonderful personality! One of the greatest joys of photography is seeing how kids grow and change and being able to capture the real personality of the child in his (or her) own element. We enjoyed a little bit of time at a local park and at the train station. The light was great, not too bright!
You may think that you have lots of time to 'look better' or 'have more money' before scheduling a photo session with a professional, but really, none of us really knows when we'll be called away. If you were gone tommorrow, would your family have photos to remember you by? 20-30 years from now, when you might be gone will your children say "Gee, I wish mom or dad had bought me more toys back then" or "Gee, I wish mom or dad had taken the time to have more photographs taken"? Portraits are one of the few things that are passed down from generation to generation. It bridges a connection between relatives and ancestors. Please don't take this for granted!
Whether you hire myself or another photographer - it doesn't matter so much. It's the act of taking them that does. Life is short - capture it while you can in those little insignificant moments because someday, they will be significant. To your kids, grandkids, neices, nephews, friends, maybe even to yourself when you look at them years later.
Carpe Diem
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I've got one spot left for this August's Family Mini Session Day on August 18th. If you're interested in this slot, please contact me today! Not quite ready for photos but would like some this fall? Stay tuned for an exciting announcement this September just in time for fall foliage sessions!
Recently I've had folks ask me about High School Senior portraits and if I do them. Yes! Contact me for details!
Happy Summer!
Cedarbrook Studio is BIG on giving back to the community. Whether it's contests for free portrait sessions, free Santa Photos to raise money for the local library or having a raffle to help a family in need. Helping others is important.
I realize that one of my biggest advertisements is a happy client. Like your recent photo session? Mention me to your friends with one of my new referral cards. If your friend returns the card they will receive a free 8 X 10 with their paid portrait session and you'll receive $20 off of your next paid portrait session! (mini sessions are excluded)
Need some referral cards? Please e-mail me your name and mailing address to: [email protected] and I'll send some out to you!
Thank you for your continued support!
It's been a busy few weeks here at Cedarbrook Studio! Family Session season is in full swing! I've been lucky enough to take photos at the lake, a family pond and the woods! One of the most enjoyable parts of customizing a photo session for a family is figuring out what is important to them and how to incorporate that into their sessions. That way they will always have a captured memory of where they were, what they were doing and what was important to them in their lives. This is something your local chain studio cannot provide as much as a portrait professional can.
I also had the pleasure of meeting the winners of my first contest, the 'Where is Winter?' photo contest from last winter. We met down at the lake on a lovely late spring evening. What a fun group and it was great to provide something special to this family of four.
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Care to join my latest contest? You could win a free mini session with Cedarbrook Studio and 5 digital images of your choice (value of $60!)
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It may be spring, but I'm gearing up for a fun event in August! Contact me today to reserve your space! Perfect for that family photo for Grandma, a holiday card or just because. Email me to reserve your time: [email protected]
]]>Last weekend I had the honor of photographing two amazing families. I was reminded yet again of the personal joy I experience when I meet new families, get to learn about what is important to them and try to document it with my camera. There are a lot of photographers out there and more often than not, they are money driven. That's nice, but I'm not one of those and I try to show that in my images by taking the extra time and putting thought into what I capture for you. The icing on the 'cake' is when I hear back from a family on how they like their photos. Words cannot describe.
Here's a few photos from this weekends sessions.
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Good luck!
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How would you like the chance to win one of my original tulip prints AND help a local family affected by tragedy? It's a win-win situation.
Last month our area was shocked to learn that a local teacher, daughter and mother was killed. Many of us have been grieving. Folks have been helping in various ways from selling prints to holding bake sales and exercise classes for the benefit of Melissa Jenkins' family. I am amazed but not surprised at the outpouring of support for this young woman and her family. We live in an amazing community.
I had read recently that Melissa's favorite color was pink. Everywhere I looked were pink ribbons and pink flowers around town. I started brainstorming on how I could help this family that I had never met. How I could do something special and meaningful to show my respect for this woman who gave so much of her life to help others. Then it came to me.
Recently I returned from a family trip to the Pacific Northwest which is known for holding the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Acres of blooming tulips in amazing displays and color combinations. While there, I made it my mission to capture some images of not just any tulip, but pink tulips, for Melissa. I went up to the fields from where I was staying three different times from 6 a.m. in the morning to mid afternoon and toted my own kids along for the ride.
I have made a special folder for some of these special images that I have taken which you will find on my website here. All proceeds of the images sold in this album will go directly to the Melissa Jenkins Memorial Trust Fund at Passumpsic Savings Bank.
I have also ordered 2 canvas prints of my favorite images. The canvases are 12 X 18 and will be on display at the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium in St Johnsbury where you can buy a raffle ticket to win one of the canvases. The drawing is TBD as I am waiting for the canvases to arrive, any day now. I will post more information as it becomes available. All proceeds from the raffle will also be donated to the Memorial Fund for Melissa Jenkins at Passumpsic Savings Bank. I have purchased and donated the canvases myself.
Please stay tuned for more information on the drawing but know that if you would like to buy any of the images in the album you are able to do so until late May 2012.
If you have any questions or comments, please contact me at [email protected] or 802-274-6941 or Bruce Allen at the Fairbanks Museum 802-748-2372.
If you would like to donate to the fund directly please send donations directly to:
"Melissa Jenkins Memorial Trust,"
Passumpsic Savings Bank
P.O. Box 38
St. Johnsbury, VT 05819
Thank you for your support
Sarah Walls
Cedarbrook Studio
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Yesterday my family and I enjoyed Easter Sunday together. My daughter and I enjoyed Sunrise Service, we came home to enjoy a nice breakfast with my husband and son and my parents came over as well. We spent the afternoon getting ready for our upcoming vacation to the west coast and then went for a drive to scout out new outdoor locations for photo sessions. I love discovering new places in my area. There are so many lovely trees, fields and interesting buildings! I found a local gem yesterday and had fun taking photos of my kids just enjoying the day. Hope you had a wonderful Easter!
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The best part comes when you go to pick up your photos a few weeks later. The reds are a little botched and your son's skin color is a bit gray looking. It looks like someone processed your photo minimally, along with thousands of others. Totally disappointing. They get shoved into a pile never to be seen again.
This was me last year. I too used to frequent the 'box store special' for photos of my family thinking it was a great bargain when I didn't have the courage to take my own children's photos, but my last experience was my last. Ever. A picture of my then newborn son and daughter was so bad that it is shoved in a box somewhere, never to be seen again. We didn't even send them to grandma and grandpa. It is the worst portrait I have ever gotten, their faces are blotchy and they were posed terribly. They look very unhappy. With gasoline, outfits and the photos, my $6.99 bargain portrait experience for ONE pose ended up costing about $70, not including 3 hours of my time. What a waste.
I also found out that one thing they don't like to tell you at box stores is that often these 'deals' only include one pose and if you want any other prints you will pay an arm and a leg for them. That's if you even like the quality. They process thousands of images and often don't have the time to color match or take the extra time to make sure it looks the best that it can. You are not always supporting a local family or business when you support these stores and you don't know the person taking your photos. Do they like children? Do they have any? Are they getting paid minimum wage and just can't wait to get done for the day or do they really enjoy what they are doing?
I don't just take photographs. I spend hours editing them (if needed) Making sure the colors are accurate, removing blemishes, fixing slight imperfections (if you have wanted me to) and then putting them on a password protected website so that you may view the 30-35 best images and choose what you like in the comfort of your own home, not feeling rushed to choose at the store. I order archival quality portraits online that thousands of the 'best' photographers use. The quality is outstanding. I send them directly to you either by dropping them off or mail and I am fast, often doing so in less than two weeks time. I treat every session with care, dedication and give it my best, as if it were pictures of my own family. I do this because I love Photography and capturing moments for families. I live in your town, I go to the same places you do and you see me around town. I love what I do and I am not going anywhere so I stand behind my portraits, my business and will make sure you feel great about the whole experience. While you may pay a little more up front for a session with me versus a box store, you will get what you paid for and more.
I find the best sessions are the ones where I go to someone's house or choice location. Not only does this make their experience a lot more convenient because they are not having to rush to a location with children who may or may not want to go, but people are more relaxed in their own environment and it shows in photographs, especially with children. I take the time to get to know each family, their likes, dislikes and hear their ideas on what they would like to capture in their photos, what is important to them. Many of my clients are repeats and that feels great to know that I am liked enough by their family to take more pictures for them. That speaks volumes about my ability, who I am and what I stand for.
Another thing that you will find with a custom photographer like myself, is that I thank you for your business and your referrals. I may give you a few images extra on your CD or may print an extra print for you or give you a discount on your next session. Even a free 'sneak peek' of a few images on my business Facebook page. I am reachable by a local phone number, you don't have to call a 1-800 number or give me an 'order number' to check the status, I'll remember you right away!
Ultimately the choice is up to you in who you want to take your portraits, but knowing this, think about 20 years from now when your children or grandchildren have left your home or if you have moved away. What will you remember about your life right now? What will your family remember? Would you rather have your photos to remember being in your yard, a local park, a favorite home or forest or would you rather recall sitting in line for a $6.99 portrait?
- Sarah Walls, Cedarbrook Studio - Barnet, Vermont 05821
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This morning I had my first ever newborn session. Sure, I've taken tons of baby photos thru the years including my own children, but this was a 'real' session. Miss M was so well behaved, she did not even cry once. Full of smiles and ever so patient with mom, sister and I helping to pose her gently. Even got a few grins from her. I learned a lot from this session including how much I adore using Natural Light versus flash lighting. Most of the photos in this session were taken without a flash!
Big sister E was a great help and equally as delightful and very helpful. It was a wonderful session and a great one to learn on. I hope to do some more newborn sessions in the future but in the meantime I look forward to reading and learning about newborn phootgraphy techniques and safety, the most important part.
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It may be the end of February, but before we know it, Spring will be here. New green leaves, chirping birds and flowers. In honor of Mother's Day I'm holding special mini sessions on April 28th here at my mini studio and my peaceful 'outdoor' studio in Barnet. Why not give mom something that will last longer than flowers? Make it a surprise session with photos of you and your family or bring her along to be in the photos too. Limited session times are available so please reserve early. For the indoor studio there is a limit on folks that I can fit in there(2-3 comfortably), but for the outdoor session there's no limit.
And best of all, I'll have your CD of images to you in time for Mother's Day!
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Who is the person behind Cedarbrook Studio and why did I choose the name? My name is Sarah. I'm 35. Wife, mom to 2 adorable kiddos. I'm 1/4 Alaskan Native American and proud of it. I enjoy organic gardening, snowshoeing, long family walks, traveling, cooking and of course photography. I've lived here in the NEK for nearly 10 years and was raised on the West Coast. When I'm not shooting photo sessions, I can be found helping in my daughter's classroom at school, I am co-Leader of the Barnet Busy Bees 4-H club, Library Trustee at our local library and I am the Weekend Manager at a local Natural Science Museum! Whew!
Cedarbrook Studio is a name I thought of when I was trying to think of something to set myself apart. I love nature. I love Cedar Trees and my first home was on a brook with lovely cedar trees in the back yard. Nature IS my studio for now. While I look forward to expanding and progressing toward indoor sessions, my first love is being outside, being in nature the way it was intended. Enjoying the smell of Milkweed and the sound of Pine Trees whispering in the wind.
I'm all about giving back to my community, the community that has given so much to my family this past year. Sure, making money is great, but if you've paid attention to my website or my Facebook posts, you'll see that making money is not the most important thing to me. Providing a service and capturing great photos for you is. As well as donating my time and talent for the greater good. Local businesses are the backbone of many communities so while helping others I look forward to passing the word on that I take photographs. When you support me you are not only supporting your local business and my family, but you are supporting a local artist and everything I stand for. Thanks for the support!
While I have been enjoying a slow winter, I've done a few projects that I am pretty proud of. A photo I have taken is featured on the 2011 Town Report for the Town of Barnet. I was asked to take the photo of the Road Crew that worked tirelessly during the spring storms and during Hurricane Irene. It was an honor for me to take this photo, not only because I was one of the families affected, but it helps to let folks know who I am and it gave me a chance to be creative! So when the Town Report comes out in the next week or so, pick up a copy and enjoy the photo!
I've also been asked by a few local businesses to work on some projects this spring and summer. Commercial photography is something that is new to me so I am excited at the chance to work on these projects!
Spring is coming up fast. If you've been thinking it might be nice to get some outdoor photos after mud season when that first 'new green' on the trees appears, the ground once again has that earthy, inviting smell and the daffodils are in bloom, please contact me to book your time slot. First come, first served on these time slots and I purposely do not over book. I want to give plenty of time to you and your family to capture your moments and to give you my best work. Please contact me at [email protected] to reserve your date and time.
Thanks for following my blog!
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It's a bit quiet here and I'm enjoying it with my family and gearing up for what I believe will be a busy spring and summer here in Vermont. I've been practicing different locations and learning new editing techniques and buying more gear to help me work more efficiently. I've updated my pricing packages and have decided to concentrate more on providing prints and less with mailing out cd's. You can still get the cd's but I've been very happy with the prints I have ordered thru a professional printer than ones that Rite Aid, Walmart or Walgreens provide. I think you will be too.
If you've got an event coming up this spring or summer and would like some photographs taken, please contact me to reserve your date!
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2011 has come to a close and 2012 is just beginning. Now that the 'holiday rush' is over, I have some time to regroup, look for new inspiration and look forward to spring and summer. My goals for 2012 include expanding my business to include Senior Portraits and work on indoor studio lighting. Several people have asked me where my studio is located. It's true, I don't yet have a set 'studio' but I look at nature as my outdoor studio right now. I love the relaxation and beauty of an outdoor photo shoot. I live in such a lovely part of the country, why not show it off to the world?
I've revamped my prices for 2012. My goal is to still make Custom Portraiture affordable for you. Indoor chain studios simply cannot provide what I can. I come to your location, find out what type of photos you are looking for and we work together to achieve them. Does your local chain store provide this service?
Thank you to all of the families who gave this 'new girl' a chance at taking portraits for your family. The knowledge and experience I have gained is irreplaceable!
If you've not yet booked a session, please consider booking early. I anticipate spring and summer will be quite busy! I'll be visiting friends and family in the Seattle area in summer of 2012 for a few weeks, so if any of you are from that area and are interested in a session, let me know!
Happy 2012!
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Holiday Rush!
It's been a few weeks of rushing for me. Several sessions followed by a fundraising event for my local library. Thanks to all who came to get their photos taken with Santa - we raised $235! The weather has been in my favor lately which is great for outdoor sessions! Here are some photos from the past few weeks.
Those of you interested in seeing some of the Santa Photos can check them out on my Facebook page here!
Be sure and 'like' my page while you're there!
]]>Just a couple of families I have been working with during the awesome and mild autumn here in the Northeast Kingdom!
Yesterday I had two sessions before my work day at the Museum. It started raining in the morning but quit by the time I got to my first session. What a gorgeous location on the top of a hill, views of the White Mountains and a lovely sugarbush and shack. The kids were especially fun to photograph, so enthusiastic and full of life! The family cat insisted on being in a few of the photos which made it fun.
Next it was north for my second session. A Family Farm that was full of charm. The family was even more charming. I got a kick out of the 3 boys, fun and mischevious but kind and caring. There was an awesome old truck in the front pasture that made a fun prop. Lots of rolling hills and a cool old barn too. What a fun Sunday indeed!
On Friday afternoon my trusty sidekick and I met up with some old friends for a photo session. I remember these two from about 4 years ago as the daughter and my daughter are close in age and we used to take our two 'babies' to a local story hour at the Library. My, how time has flown! Big brother was younger then as well and he's just as kind and friendly as he was back then. We met at the school for some interesting brick backgrounds and the fun of the community playground and the snowbanks.
The weather was gorgeous and a captured a terrific pre-sunset on my way home.
I met a wonderful young family at Seyon Lodge yesterday afternoon. It was gorgeous weather (65 degrees - in November!) and sunny. It turns out this particular park is special to the family and a recent birthday party was held there. Yet another reason to love custom portraiture versus one of those 'chain' studios - you can choose your location! We got some lovely images and captured some fun times. Loving what I do!
Lovin' This Weather!
Just wanted to share another couple of photos from a lovely family session held here in the 'outdoor studio recently...the weather has been FANTASTIC for outdoor shoots!
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Think Holiday Photos!
Not much rest here and loving it! Holiday card season is in full swing here, I've got nearly every weekend filled with appointments! I really appreciate the kindness and support of those of you who have scheduled a session with me lately. I sure am enjoying the holiday rush!
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Today was our first measurable snow event for the season! Our family was up bright and early to enjoy the little amount we received. It's almost time to think about snow photos! What better way to get that family portrait for the Holiday Cards! Contact me today if you'd like to book a session or book ahead for a 'snow session'!
This morning I met a wonderful, down to earth family with an adorable 2 year old son. He loved the woods, the walking and the outdoors! I was pleasantly surprised with the late season foliage that was still on some of the trees and it was slightly cloudy which really made some great images. Today was a wonderful reminder of why I am a photographer - meeting wonderful people and capturing a special time in their life. What an honor.
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This week has already started out busy! On Sunday morning I photographed a wonderful and inspirational family in Burke. You could tell family unity and children were a very important part of their lives together. It was a pleasure to meet all the kids and take photos, especially the ones by 'Grammy's Rock' The rain held off until after the shoot. It stayed cloudy but we were able to get some good photos.
Thank you for letting me be a part of your morning!
Yesterday I met a mother and her two children at a local community park. After the dark, rainy days we've been having we decided on a whim to meet later the same day for some fun at the park. The vibrance and love of nature these two share was so wonderful to see. We welcomed the sun even though the lighting was not ideal (a bit bright for my Nikon) we captured some fun moments with mom and some with brother and sister playing. What a great way to spend a Monday!
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I have been going non-stop since last Friday! 3 photo shoots this weekend (Lam, Puffer and Zajko) ranging from tree climbing and sunset watching to a foggy morning at a local beach and a late afternoon hike in the woods. What a great time I am having!
I've got a few more sessions booked for the coming weekends which I am very excited about!
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Today I completed my first 'real' photo shoot! We didn't have the greatest weather, it poured for half of the time and we found ourselves dodging rain showers. I could not have asked for a more down-to-earth family for my first real 'gig'. Beautiful smiles, even better personalities and the way the parents enjoy playing with their children was just wonderful to see. I took nearly 200 pictures in an hour and ended up with 25-30 ones that I really liked, I hope they like them too. Thank you, Perkins Family!
Next weekend: The Zajko's and the Puffer's! I can't wait!
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On My Way!
Starting a photography business has always been a dream that I have had for as long as I can remember. I recall being a teenager carrying a camera to special events. Snapping photos of everyone and everything. Capturing the moment, the people, the scenery.
As time went on and I got older, life set in. Usually common sense told me that it cost too much, took too much time and energy to quit my day job and have a studio. Then the kids were born. There was always something else that was more important than pursuing 'hobbies'
Last spring we endured a life altering event at my home. A landslide in the middle of the night. Having to pack up the children, the pets and my most precious belongings in less than 10 minutes would rattle anyone. When I later realized that 2 of the top 5 things I crammed into my car were my laptop and my camera, I said to myself "Why am I not doing this for a living?" Life is short. Too short. So it's time to take the next step that I have been too nervous to do for the past 17 years - have a photography business.
I've decided to start slowly, working up a portfolio and practicing this fall and winter. Really submerging myself into the notion of taking family photos, children's portraits and anything else that comes along. This is why you'll see that my real prices are effectice January 2012. Until then I'm offering a Portfolio Building Special. Please check my blog and my Facebook page here for updates, special events and special rates in the future!
Thank you for the support!
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