Alyssa Anne Photography

We've Moved!!!

2011-03-31T16:33:00.000-04:00

I'm thrilled to announce that this blog has moved. The new blog is found at:

http://www.alyssaannephotography.com/blog/

So switch your bookmarks!

B Family {love}

2011-03-15T20:46:00.001-04:00

I had the joy of photographing this family of three just a few weeks before they are due to transition to four. Their two year old son was a bit hesitant about the whole "photography" thing until we came across a big door. Yes, a door. It was a first for me. This little guy was in love with doors, and brighten right up as soon as he could play with one. In fact, we could hardly pry him away. I see engineering in this little guy's future...

Leave some blog love for this cute family. If there are 25 different comments in 5 days, they will be receiving a free 5x7 of their choice.

Thanks, Arif and Kim, for allowing me the opportunity to document this moment in time for your family. I'm looking forward to hearing about the arrival of your sweet little one!

At Home

2011-03-04T15:07:00.001-05:00

As you all know, my main job is mothering four of my favorite people.

This pretty much sums up the energy level in our home...

Tag Yourself!

2011-02-22T14:46:00.001-05:00

Hi, all! I've uploaded many more photos to my Facebook fan page HERE. I've also changed settings so that past clients can tag themselves on their own photos and use it as their profile picture (if you so wish). And don't forget to invite your friends to be fans as well.

So head on over, and start tagging!

{Happy Tuesday, everyone!}

Aisling {newborn}

2011-02-13T16:08:00.000-05:00

Not only was little Aisling a dark haired beauty, but her wonderful parents were up for anything during her newborn pictures. They are lovers of the great outdoors, and Aisling's dad, Brian, spends his work days climbing trees for a tree service company. We'd recently had a storm that knocked over multiple tree limbs; and behind our house, I found the exact prop I had in mind. Brian employed some serious brute strength holding his little bundle of joy up "on the tree top."

Big yawn!!

Welcome to the world, Aisling!

Natalie {newborn}

2011-02-07T12:15:00.001-05:00

Precious Natalie was not only a complete doll-baby, but also such an excellent little model. She snoozed through my photography antics with that dead-to-the-world newborn sleep that her mother lamented is only present during the day.

With 25 different comments in the next 5 days, comes a free 5x7 for Miss Natalie's mom and dad. So rant and rave away at how beautiful their girlie is!

Drawing Winner {announced}

2011-02-01T15:12:00.001-05:00

No doubt there is some techie way to handle a drawing, but I had fun this week filling up my two blue bowls with the names of all the wonderful people who jumped at the chance to help a great cause.

Then this morning my son Elijah (who also goes by the name "SuperBoy" since receiving Grandma's gift of a cape) came to the rescue to help pick a name from each bowl.

You should have seen how excited he was about this job. Taking things very seriously, with eyes shut tight, he pulled two winners.

Dave and Hannah won my drawing, and Lauren won Janelle's!

A HUGE thank you to all of the participants!!

Two Drawings

2011-01-24T09:00:00.003-05:00

Are y'all ready for a chance to get a great deal AND help a wonderful family adopt two orphans?

I couldn't be more excited about this year's adoption fundraiser drawing! Watching a loving family open their home to an orphan is one of the few things that brings tears to my eyes.

Meet Steve and Nicole.

Ladies, you know that girlfriend you have that blurs the lines between being a friend and a sister? That's who Nicole is to me. She's been there for me when I needed her most, engaged in more deep and encouraging conversations than I could count (while consuming an Olympic-sized pool worth of Starbucks), watched me give birth, and been such a part of my life. To know Nicole is to love her. When my sister-in-law hung out with her for the first time, she later told me that Nicole was "one of the most genuine people I've ever met."

Nicole and her husband Steve, who happens to be my hubby's good buddy, have two wonderful kids. I'll never forget listening to my phone message one Saturday in June.

"Alyssa, we need to talk. There's something I need to tell you."

She and Steve felt that God was calling them to adopt, not one, but two kids. So this year, a little boy and a little girl from Ethopia will hopefully joining their family. Right now, their life is filled with all the work of an adoption process which of course involves high costs.

So to help raise money for their adoption, we are doing two drawings.

The winner of each drawing will be able to get a photo shoot and the CD of the processed images for $350. A regular sitting fee is usually priced between $100-$200 and the price of the cd is $500. So winning the drawing gives you a major discount! The photo shoot can be used for family, kids, couples, high school seniors or a newborn portraits.

Best of all, EVERY PENNY will go toward the adoption fund for this family.

There are two drawings this year because the wonderfully talented Janelle Bradshaw (who also happens to be Nicole's sister) has agreed to help out. One drawing will be for a session with her and one for a session with me.

Janelle's work is gorgeous! She has done our family photos for a couple of years now and took the photo above. You can view her photography HERE and HERE.

Please note that Janelle is in Gaithersburg, Maryland and I am in Fairfax, Virginia. We're both willing to drive but obviously within reason. So keep this in mind when choosing which drawing to participate in.

Now for the details and rules!

Please read them carefully before submitting your name:

*By entering your name in the drawing, you are agreeing to pay if you are chosen

*If you want your name put in the drawing, email me at: alyssa@alyssaannephotography.com by midnight on Monday, January 31st.

*Please specify in the email whether you would like your name put in Alyssa or Janelle's drawing (or you can double your chances by placing your name in both!).

*The winner will be chosen randomly and announced on this blog.

*The $350 is due within two weeks of the announcement of the winner. If the winner does not pay in this period of time, a second name will be drawn; and the first will no longer be eligible.

*After you have paid, you will be mailed a gift certificate for a session and CD for you to use at your convenience. There is no expiration date.

*New and returning clients alike are both welcome to submit their names.

*The gift certificate may not be used for appointments that are already scheduled.

So start submitting those names, and let a friend know about it, too. Let's help Steve and Nicole bring their kids home!

Arabelle {3 months}

2011-01-18T19:07:00.000-05:00

This weekend I was back at Arabelle's house to see how much she's grown! Even at 3 months, she was all female, wanting to catch my eye and have a cooing version of a conversation. And aren't her blue eyes and rolls downright cherub-like?!

If there are 25 different comments on this post in the next 5 days, Arabelle's mom and dad will get a free 5x7.

Winner!

2011-01-15T20:42:00.000-05:00

Thank you to everyone who voted giving this contest well over twice the amount of votes as last year's! It's time to announce the top three...

Now don't you hate it when a reality television show is about to announce an elimination or winner; and they have to drag it out with a long pause and the inevitable commercial break? Maybe I should cue some overly dramatic music and stop the post right here.

Naah!

So here we go...starting with the photo that came in 3rd place.

Second place goes to:

And the winner of the 2010 Favorite Photo Contest is:

Congrats to little Maren and her parents!

2010 Favorite Photo Contest!!

2011-01-07T07:59:00.001-05:00

It's here- the annual favorite photos contest! Thanks to all my fabulous clients who made 2010 a wonderful year!

The difficult job of narrowing it down to 12 of my favorite photos from last year is complete. Now that I've done the nominating, you're job is to be the judge. Just cast one vote at the bottom of this post. The prize for the winner is a $75 credit toward any prints or other items you want from the winning photo's session.

PLEASE NOTE: ONLY ONE VOTE PER PERSON.

The contest will run for one week closing at midnight on January 14th.

So here, in no particular order, are this year's nominations:

#10

#11

#12

Which is YOUR favorite?online survey

Runners-Up Pt. 2

2011-01-05T14:16:00.000-05:00

Here's the last set of runners-up. Just two more days until the contest begins...

Runners-Up to the 2010 Contest

2011-01-03T22:46:00.000-05:00

My favorite time of year on the blog has become the annual favorite photo contest, and the 2010 edition is only days away! I had more trouble than ever this year narrowing it down to the final 12 contest photos. I even solicited the help of my mom and three sisters because I was staring at 21 photos not wanting to cut a single one!

The photos that made the final cut were the ones that spoke to me the most as pieces of art. I loved the lighting or the perspective. However, this fall when our own family photos were taken by a friend of mine, it was funny how different I looked at those photos compared to how I look at a client's photos. Suddenly I found myself scrutinizing the look on my child's face or whether or not the position I was in made me look like I'd eaten a case of donuts before the shoot. So I understand that my favorite may not have been your favorite, and that's why this year's first place prize is a $75 print credit toward anything from the session the winning photo was taken during.

My plan is to have the contest up and running on Friday; but for now, here's the first of two installments of some of the photos that were runners-up...

Keep watching...there's more to come!!

Avery {Newborn}

2010-12-30T15:20:00.002-05:00

I love being asked back! Not only is it the biggest compliment I could receive; but it's so much fun to see clients again and to get the chance to watch these cute little kids grow. So I was as happy as could be when I was asked to come to Charlie's house to photograph his new little sister. Baby Avery was a gentle, sweet baby with some wonderful strawberry blond hair, and it was like my own Christmas present to get a chance to snuggle her!

Avery's mom & dad will get a free 5x7 if this post has 25 different comments in 5 days. So leave them some blog love!!

Judah {Growing}

2010-11-30T14:51:00.003-05:00

The fabulous Jewel & Jason have an equally model-worthy son. Blue eyes, wispy curls, and a gentle personality- you can't help but melt! I only got a few minutes with him before I went to work photographing his parents, but was glad to get some face time with his sweet, deep stares.

Enjoy!

Jason & Jewel {Couples}

2010-11-17T14:53:00.003-05:00

Photographing is usually part work, part play; but this shoot was ALL play! Jewel is great photographer herself and was already brimming with ideas for props. Can I bring my own couch and antique props? Um, Y.E.S! The whole set-up was like a photographer's dream. And how can you not love a husband who is willing to dress up?!

Thanks, Jason and Jewel, for all the fun!

They also happen to have a completely adorable son as well...but that will have to be another post!

T Family {Love}

2010-11-12T16:04:00.005-05:00

To know this family is to love them. I first did their family portraits after they had just adopted their first two children from Ethiopia. Their oldest son happens to be one of my oldest son's best friends, and it's been amazing to watch how both kids have thrived in a loving family. This fall Josh and Bethany adopted another son and daughter from Ethiopia. So enjoy these photos of this beautiful family of six brought together by a sovereign God who created the idea of adoption.

In our first session we did a photo of everyone's hands:

And now all 12 hands!

Country Party

2010-11-11T12:16:00.000-05:00

Since two of their three children have their birthdays around Christmas (not exactly a good time of the year for birthday parties), Jessica and Evin decided to throw a big party for all three of their kids in November. They live on a beautiful farm, and they definitely know how to throw a fabulous kid's party.

Here are some of their ingredients for a perfect country party...

1. Birthday Kids

2. Crafts

4. Pony Rides!

5. Kid-Crafted Cakes

6. Games

7. Face Paint

8. Favors

9. Balloons

H Family {Love}

2010-11-04T15:37:00.005-04:00

These clients were a pain! So fussy and demanding. Kidding...kidding! It's actually one of my favorite families in the whole world. This is my sweet sister and her family!! Christine and I grew up doing everything together, and her hubby and mine are now best buds, too. Not to mention my superlatively adorable nephew whom I love like a son. You'll have to forgive me if I went a little overboard in the amount of preview pictures...I just can't get enough of them!

One of my nephew's many hidden talents- balancing trains on his head!

Andrew & Jane {Couples}

2010-10-27T20:18:00.003-04:00

If you take a gander (just felt like using that word) through my photos, you'll see that a bulk of it involves babies and children. I love kids, and I'm convinced that photographing a toddler burns twice as many calories as kick boxing. But as much as I enjoy small people, it was a treat Saturday to get a chance to have a shoot with two adults. They stood where I told them, never threw themselves on the ground, and cooperated without me even once having to bribe them with animal crackers...it was a beautiful thing!

Andrew and Jane have been married for 3 years and decided that it was high time they had fresh and more casual photos of themselves. We had a fun hour as we chatted and roamed around a little town. I have no idea why it works this way, but it seems that only gorgeous women hire me...and their men aren't too shabby either! :o)

Their assignment was writing a love note to each other...

With 25 different comments on their post, Andrew and Jane will be able to pick out a free 5x7. So go ahead and tell them what a beautiful couple they are!

C Family {Love}

2010-10-25T23:08:00.001-04:00

This past week I had the joy of meeting the C Family. I've met many a sweet kid doing what I do, but little Sam about melted my heart to a puddle. Not only was he bright and cheerful; he also adored his parents. At one point, while taking photos with his dad, he looked up and announced, "I love my daddy!" Freezing these moments in time is probably one of my absolute favorite parts of photography. So enjoy the beautiful C family!

As always, 25 different comments on this post will allow Sam's mom & dad to pick out a free 5x7. So comment away!

Arabelle- Newborn

2010-10-13T17:08:00.003-04:00

Remember the sunset maternity shoot at Fort Belvoir? Well, little Arabelle made her grand appearance; and I had the honor of being asked back to take her first portraits. Arabelle was a gem and should win an award for the easiest newborn I've ever photographed. She was happy to snooze in whatever position I had her. So here's to you Sleeping Beauty!

I did get open eyes for about one whole minute...

Arabelle's mom & dad will get a free 5x7 if this post has 25 different comments in 5 days. So leave them some blog love about how gorgeous their little girl is!!

P Family

2010-10-12T20:30:00.002-04:00

Tracy contacted me over a year ago; and last Saturday, I finally got to meet her and her husband Aaron and their son. We met at a wetland reserve, got our exercise walking through the park, and had some fun with apples. Their little man, Trevor, was honestly one of the most cooperative four year olds I've ever been around. He was eager to follow any directions I gave. By the end, I was about ready to bring him to my house to give my four year old a lesson!

Help Tracy & Aaron get a free 5x7 by leaving a blog comment. If there are 25 different comments in 5 days, that's what they'll be getting!

Jack & Olivia

2010-10-11T14:57:00.003-04:00

Meet Jack & Olivia both with sparkling blue eyes. Olivia was quiet and cautious about the stranger with the large camera. Jack was spunky and ready to make friends with me about 2 seconds after I arrived.

We had fun checking out the fall decorations around their new home, and playing in the field nearby.

Jack told me how he'd been reading "Ten Apples Up on Top" at preschool, but I couldn't convince him to try balancing the pumpkin on his head...

Something about Olivia's face and the way the light plays with my camera lens in the bottom left corner made me instantly fall in love with the photo below

Keeping with tradition around here, Jack & Olivia's parents can pick out a free 5x7 if there are different 25 comments on this post within 5 days.

B Family

2010-10-08T16:33:00.003-04:00

I have been looking forward to this photo shoot for awhile. Janelle is a talented photographer friend whose work I love. And for the second year in a row, she has swapped family photos with me. Both of us wanted a chance to come out from behind the camera so that we have some sort of photographic proof that we actually existed during our kid's childhood!

Janelle and Mike have two adorable little girls and son due in November. And, let me tell you, this family knows how to have a good time! From songs to popcorn to laughter, this session was more fun than work. Being 8 months pregnant didn't stop Janelle from running around and even giving a piggyback ride.

Samuel- 6 months

2010-10-05T21:38:00.002-04:00

The last time I was at Sam's house he was a tiny sleepy newborn, and I was a ginormous pregnant photographer. This time when I arrived, sans huge belly, I found a cheerful, wide-eyed 6 month old. Sam was the perfect little model who kept up his toothless grin and a laid back personality the entire shoot. Don't you just want to kiss those cheeks?!

A look back...

And now...

As usual, 25 different comments on this post within 5 days will earn Sam's mom & dad a free 5x7!

Ellen- Newborn

2010-10-04T18:46:00.004-04:00

Nearly two years ago, I took some newborn shots of a handsome dark-haired boy named Ethan. This past week, I was back at Ethan's house taking his little sister, Ellen's, first portraits!

Ellen decided to surprise her family with a three week early arrival and a labor so fast that her dad made it to the delivery room a couple pushes before she entered the world. Weighing in at 5lbs. 12 oz., she's starting off life with triple the hair my husband has on his head.

So feast your eyes on the tiny beauty that is "Ellen"...

With 25 different comments on this post, Ellen's parents will get to choose a free 5x7. So leave them some blog love!

Ava- 3 months

2010-09-23T11:35:00.003-04:00

Charlie- One Year

2010-09-14T15:04:00.004-04:00

The morning started out a little rough. The alarm went off way too early for my liking; I rushed around getting my kids ready for soccer; and finally I zipped off to the place Charlie's mom, Angela, and I had agreed to meet. When I got to Lake Accotink, which I had assured her would be lovely, there was no lake! I discovered that they had drained the lake to work on the dam; so instead, I stared in disbelief at what looked Desert Accotink. I thought of calling Angela; but when I reached into my camera bag, I realized I'd left my cell phone. The title of a favorite childhood book popped into my head. Do you remember "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day"?!

But before I could start feeling sorry for myself, my day took a turn for the better when Charlie arrived with his parents. Thankfully, they found the humor in our lack of a lake situation, and we were able to make it work beautifully! Charlie was super good-natured, completely adorable, and dressed to the nines. As you can see from some of the pictures, Charlie is also due to be a big brother before the year is out!

With 25 different comments within 5 days on this blog post, Charlie's mom and dad will get to choose a free 5x7...so start those comments coming!!

Julia- {growing}

2010-09-08T10:29:00.002-04:00

When I arrived at Julia's house, she was snuggled on the couch, sucking her thumb and clinging to her blankie. I have a special place in my heart for the cuteness of a thumb-sucker since ALL four of my baby's have been lover's of the thumb. Julia was sweet and vivacious, and took thumb breaks at the rate I take coffee breaks.

She also was a tender little momma, often stopping to hold her baby or push it on her tricycle. And like any good 17 month old, she kept me running! Besides Miss Julia, the other thing I was smitten with was her mother's handiwork in the form of a knit tea and cupcakes set. (Joan, if you ever start selling them, I'll be your first customer!)

So here is the blond-haired, blue-eyed tiny beauty they call Julia...

As always, Julia's parents will receive a free 5x7 of their choice if you leave them a little blog love. They just need to get 25 different comments in the next 5 days to be eligible.

Kerri- Maternity

2010-09-06T18:30:00.004-04:00

When Kerri contacted me awhile ago, her husband was stationed in Iraq; and she was determined to hold off on her maternity portraits until he arrived home. Sure enough, Kerri made it to our photo shoot just two weeks before she was due to deliver her baby and just one week after her husband Thaddeus had made it safely back into her arms.

Being able to use my lens to capture the images of a soldier freshly back from serving his country, his beautiful wife blossoming with their first baby, and a perfect sunset over the bay on the edge of Fort Belvoir- priceless. I love my job!

If 25 people comment on this post within 5 days, Kerri & Thaddeus will be able to receive a free 5x7.

Vacation!

2010-08-24T23:22:00.002-04:00

Mason- One Year

2010-08-09T22:04:00.004-04:00

I was back again at Mason's house for his first year pictures. And to my delight, I found curls adorning his adorable little head! He was as bright and cheery as usual, and you should have seen how thrilled he was to devour a chocolate cupcake in honor of his birthday!

Even though Mason and his parents had moved into a new home, they still had the great Noah's Ark picture in the nursery. And we couldn't resist finishing our progressive photos:

As always, if there are 25 different comments on this post within five days, Mason's mom and dad will receive a free 5x7 of their choice.

Olivia- Newborn

2010-08-03T14:57:00.003-04:00

Remember the adorable Zack?

Well he's now a big brother! And I was thrilled to be invited back to take newborn photos of his little sister (who looks just like him). She was an absolute doll baby!! At three weeks old, she was the strongest newborn I've ever seen, showing it off by holding her head up for long periods of time. Along with her strength, her sweet little nature was already shining through. So get ready for an overdose of cuteness...

Want to give Olivia's and Zack's parents a free 5x7? Then just leave a comment. If they get 25 comments in 5 days, that's what they'll receive!

Maren- One Year

2010-08-02T15:21:00.005-04:00

Meet Maren:

Little bookworm.

Expert demolisher of block towers.

Proficient clapper.

Bubbly smiler.

Superb hugger.

Give Maren's parents the gift of a free 5x7 by leaving a comment. If they get 25 comments in the next 5 days, they will get just that!

Prayers

2010-07-26T14:54:00.002-04:00

My heart is aching for this couple I photographed earlier this year.

Yesterday during a terrible windstorm in our area their six year old son was killed. You can see the news article here: Washington Post

Please ask God to sustain and comfort them, their other son, and their family.

And hug your kids tight today.

Presenting: Slideshows

2010-07-13T22:10:00.005-04:00

Like I said earlier, I've spent some time during my maternity leave (which is almost over!) making some improvements around here. One of the things I'm most excited about is slideshows! I wanted to make a more special way for you, the client, to see all of your photos for the first time. So now after a session, before you are sent over to your online gallery, you will be sent a link to a personalized slideshow. Imagine it: kicking your feet up in your own home and enjoying your custom portraits flash across your computer screen to the sound of music. Maybe I should start sending over a bag of popcorn as a bonus!

And what's a post on a photo blog without photos? So here are a few of my first girlie that I snapped on her birthday a couple weeks ago...

Ava- 1 month

2010-06-28T14:55:00.002-04:00

A few more of my own...

New Things

2010-06-16T15:27:00.006-04:00

So it's been awhile, dear blog readers. I've been wonderfully distracted with this beautiful little one:

But I did decide to take my maternity leave to make a few simple changes with my photography business. For example, I tend to make things too complicated and realized that my photo collections reflect that fault. So I've streamlined the collections and made them much more simple. Giving you, the client, more control over them!

I've also added a few new products by tapping into the resources of some very talented artisans. Each of these new items are handmade; and I am super excited about them!

First, there's the Session Box and the Fine Art Box. By purchasing either of these, you would get ALL the photos in your gallery as 5x7s placed in a GORGEOUS display box with the Fine Art Box featuring 20 of your photos matted. I'm planning on buying one for myself to be able set out on my coffee table.

I've also added Folios! This fun item is perfect for showing off your photos at the office and makes a perfect gift for the grandparents. The Folio shows off two or three 5x7s and are designed to sit up like a frame and yet fold into a small book with a lovely ribbon closure.

One of the fun things about all of these new items is that YOU get to choose from over 18 elegant Japanese bookbinding fabrics and Swiss ribbon accents!

Photo Credit: Joyce Smith

used with permission

My Girl!

2010-05-29T10:52:00.004-04:00

My daughter arrived nearly a week early and I've been wrapped up in a wonderful world tiny diapers, pink blankets, midnight feedings, and newborn photos...of course newborn photos!

I had WAY too much fun doing the photos of my very own baby...

My Personal Project

2010-05-11T21:48:00.002-04:00

I'm taking a break for my own little personal project which happens to be wiggling inside of me right now. For those of you who haven't already seen me in my ginormous glory, I am due with our fourth child at the end of this month. I've finished my last day of shooting and officially started my maternity leave. The sheer joy of getting my whale-of-a-self up and down from the ground on that hot day made me confident that I had chosen the right time to take a breather.

I'll be back at the end of July and have already started to book appointments; so feel free to contact me if you would like to get your session on the calendar.

In the mean time, I don't plan on totally abandoning this blog. So check back for posts that will include pictures of our new addition; beautiful, new items that I'll be offering; and more!

Sophia- 1 year!!

2010-05-03T11:28:00.006-04:00

If you've hung around this blog for any length of time, you're probably acquainted with the adorable Miss Sophia. Her parents contacted me when she was just 2 months old asking for one of my first year packages. I've had the complete delight since then to document this little girl's first year; and I can honestly say after all this time with her, I'm totally smitten with this brunette beauty.

Her first year photo shoot this past weekend could not have gone more perfectly. After all the time she's spent in front of my camera, she was a complete pro at modeling.

Give this little cutie a birthday gift in the form of a comment! If she gets different 25 comments within a week, Mom & Dad will get a free 5x7 from this fun session.

W Family

2010-05-01T16:49:00.004-04:00

We met at a park early this morning with Mom & Dad toting bigger grins than any parents that had just gotten their two children ready for an bright & early photo shoot usually would. Shelly & Landon had just celebrated 11 years of marriage and had with them their adorable 18 month old twins. We had fun checking out the nature near a couple of ponds (the black snake that was sunning himself gets excluded from that statement!!!). I think my favorite part of the shoot was watching how doting, patient, and caring Shelly & Landon were with their two little people. From one hour with them, you could tell these twins had been blessed with some wonderful parents!

So get a load of double the cuteness:

Landon found his and Shelly's initials carved into a bench...how perfect!!

When things started to get a little hairy, crackers came to the rescue:

With 25 different comments within a week on this blog post, Shelly & Landon will get to choose a free 5x7...so start those comments coming!!

The V Family

2010-04-29T15:03:00.008-04:00

My boys are only 14 1/2 months apart in age. They are wonderful and crazy all rolled into one. So when I get an inquiry for a family portrait session that involves 2 little boys, I know that I brace myself for a dose of both the wonderful and the crazy. This family's two little boys were in a super mood for our photo shoot; light on the crazy, heavy on the wonderful! We met at a local park and half of the fun was chatting and enjoying a walk down a lovely nature trail. I loved their sense of fashion with a fabulous bit of a nod to the forties.

Mara, you are gorgeous, just gorgeous...

As always, if there are 25 different comments on this post within one week, this family will receive a free 5x7 of their choice.

Bridget

2010-04-14T15:16:00.005-04:00

This goldie locks beauty could easily get her own spot on the cover of a magazine. Her favorite game was peek-a-boo; and at one point, she sat on the window seat and serenaded me with her sweet girlie voice. Get the shot gun ready, Dad; because I give her ten years before the boys start lining up at your front door!

Zack

2010-04-12T14:14:00.005-04:00

Zack's beautiful dark eyes seemed to shine more when he was doing what he loved best: running! His adorable shrieking laughter ran out as we raced up and down the path. His beautiful momma is due with her second in July, and Zack is fully determined to keep her on move!

With 25 different comments, Zack's mom and dad will be eligible for a free 5x7; so give them some love!

Samuel- Newborn

2010-04-11T20:40:00.007-04:00

How do I get the best clients?! As I walked into the beautiful house of these new clients, I was delighted to meet one super helpful and friendly dad and a mom who within 5 minutes I was chatting with like a girlfriend. To top it off, their tiny little man was one very cooperative newborn; and as an added bonus, he was scrumptiously adorable!

If there are 25 different comments on this post within a week, mom and dad will get a free 5x7 of their cutie-pie!

Mason- 7 months

2010-03-03T14:21:00.004-05:00

God must have been laughing when I wrote my post about D.C. not getting much snow. This winter we broke all records even getting 31 inches at one time. I felt like I was in Michigan again!

So because of all the snow, my appointments were canceled, and Mason's 6 month photos became his 7 month photos. Mason was a beautiful newborn and makes an even more adorable 7 month old! He was as happy as a lark the entire photo shoot and made my job very easy. Get a load of his smiles and rolls:

How time does fly...

Help Mason's parents get a free 5x7 from the shoot by leaving a comment. If within one week there are comments from 25 different people on this post, they'll get just that!

Sophia-10 months

2010-03-02T15:05:00.004-05:00

Remember the cutie-pie with the cherub cheeks and a stare that seems to see your soul?

Well, little Sophia is now 10 months, sporting teeth, and crawling! It's been so much fun to watch her grow.

For this photo shoot, her mom requested the Torpedo Factory as location. It's the great old factory that has been turned into a sort arts and crafts location.

And we had to get at least one with a torpedo. This girl had a death grip on it, too!

High five for dad!

Now, I'm looking forward to our big first year photos!!

*If there are 25 different comments on this post within a week; Sophia mom and dad will get to pick out a free 5x7!*

Drawing Winner Announced

2010-02-06T14:00:00.005-05:00

A BIG thank you to all who put there name in for our "Beautiful Cause" drawing!

I decided to do the drawing of the name the old fashion way and had my oldest (pictured below) pull out a name from a bowl. And the name he drew was....

...Lauren Miller!

Thanks again to those who participated. I'm touched by the people that wanted to support this family in their adoption fund.

For a Beautiful Cause!

2010-01-29T14:01:00.006-05:00

Remember this beautiful family?

Early last year they adopted a brother and sister from Ethiopia. The kids just happened to be almost exactly the same ages as my oldest two; and since then, we've done play dates and become good friends. Watching this couple up-close, I cannot tell you what a fabulous job they are doing as parents!

Well, the reason for this post is that they are adopting from Ethiopia again! They are looking to adopt a 5 year old boy and a baby, and I'm SO excited for them!! But as anyone knows, adoption is not cheap; and right now they are in the process of the trying to raise the money.

So, here's the plan- I am doing a drawing for one photo shoot AND the cd of the processed pictures for just $300. A sitting fee is usually anywhere from $75-$175 and a cd costs $400. So it's like getting your session for free and a $100 discount off of your cd!

The best part is that EVERY PENNY will go toward the adoption fund for this family.

Okay, now the details and rules. Please read them carefully before submitting your name:

*If you are interested and want your name put in drawing, email me at: alyssa@alyssaannephotography.com

*All names must be entered by midnight on Friday, February 5th.

*The winner will be randomly chosen and announced on Saturday, February 6th.

*By entering your name in the drawing, you are agreeing to pay if you are chosen.

*The $300 is due within two weeks of announcement of the winner. If winner does not pay in this period of time, a second name will be drawn; and the first will no longer be eligible.

*After you have paid, you will be mailed a gift certificate for a session and cd for you to use at your convenience. There is no expiration date.

*Clients whose appointments are already scheduled are not eligible.

*New and returning clients alike are both welcome to submit their names.

So start submitting those names, and let a friend know about it, too. It's all for a great family and beautiful cause!

Matt & Christy- Engagement

2010-01-21T21:12:00.005-05:00

Every couple has something that brought them together: college, a blind date, a mutual friend. Well how about dancing; can you really get more romantic than being brought together by dancing? That's exactly what did it for Matt and Christy. They both separately discovered a love for dancing two years ago; and there, on a Spanish dance floor, they met one another. Excuse me for a moment while I let out a deep romantic sigh...

So we revisited the gorgeous park/community center where they first met and later became engaged. Matt had lots of tricks up his sleeve getting private access to different fun spots. Here's just a small sampling of the photos.

If there are 25 comments on this post within a week, Matt and Christy will receive a free 5x7 of their choice. So show them some love!

Let me tell you, these two can do some seriously good dancing!

Kids on a carousel :o)

And finally, this is the bridge where Christy promised to be Matt's bride:

And the Winner Is...

2010-01-15T11:50:00.002-05:00

The winner of the "2009 Favorite Photo Contest" is...

Congrats, Nicolette and Paul!

Nate & Michelle Wedding

2010-01-11T22:56:00.004-05:00

Just the second day into this new year, I had the privilege of photographing the wedding of Nate and Michelle. This adorable couple loved to laugh and were so full of joy over the idea of marriage. Nate and Michelle began their relationship years ago and at first it seemed to go nowhere. They broke up and Michelle moved to India...yes, India. All definitely seemed to be over. A few years later when she was back on a summer break, she and Nate hung out together with friends; and Nate was officially re-smitten. After Michelle got back to India, he faxed her a handwritten note telling her how he felt and asking her to consider moving back home to give him a second chance. So a second chance he got which was obviously quite fruitful! So congratulations, Nate and Michelle; thank you for allowing me to document your wonderful day (even if it was freezing :o)!

As usual, if there are 25 or more comments on this blog post within a week, Nate and Michelle will get a free 5x7 of their choice.

We had to get creative indoors since the wind outside was so bitter!

2009 Favorite Photo Contest!!

2010-01-03T20:39:00.001-05:00

Who's ready for a photo contest? Woo-hoo!

I have chosen 12 of my favorite photos from last year; and you, my dear reader, get to be the final judge. Merely cast your vote at the bottom of this post. The prize for the winner is a 16x20 mounted printed (usually sold for $65) of the winning photo or any other photo from that session.

YOU ARE ONLY ALLOWED ONE VOTE PER PERSON. PHOTOS THAT RECEIVE MULTIPLE VOTES FROM A SINGLE PERSON WILL BE DISQUALIFIED.

The contest will run for 10 days closing at midnight on January 14th.

So here, in no particular order, are this year's nominations:

#10

#11

#12

Christmas Time Is Here

2009-12-16T15:34:00.002-05:00

I'm closing down shop for a couple of weeks to enjoy celebrating the Christmas season with my family. But I'll be back to posting in January with a New Year's wedding and our second annual "Favorite Photos of the Year" contest with a great prize in store! I've decided to whittle it down to 12 photos for this year's contest, and I'll be notifying you by email if one of the photos from your 2009 session is nominated.

I'll leave you with our family Christmas cards with the main design props going to the fabulous Nichole Van. Have a wonderful holiday season!!

Nicolette & Paul Engagement

2009-12-08T16:14:00.006-05:00

Don't be fooled by the fact that any winter postcards of D.C. show snow-covered national landmarks. As a former Michigander, I can honestly tell you that we don't get much snow around here. So I was giddy-excited when Nicolette and Paul agreed to change their photo session so that we could shoot in falling snow.

To add to my weather excitement, I was thrilled to show up to the location and find such a beautiful couple as my photo subjects! Nicolette and Paul met in California and later even discovered that they had been born in the same hospital. They reconnected and became engaged while living in Virginia which is why they told me that Virginia truly is for lovers. :o)

Isn't she gorgeous!!

We lasted about 30 minutes in the cold, wet snow. I called it a day when my finger was too frozen and stiff to press the shutter button. So we met again the next day to finish the session and were blessed with some gorgeous sun!

As usual, if there are 25 different comments on this post within a week, the happy couple will receive a free 5x7 of their choice. So give them some love!

Nicolette & Paul Preview

2009-12-06T17:30:00.003-05:00

More from this wonderfully snowy engagement shoot in a couple days...

Kelsey- Senior Portraits

2009-11-23T16:06:00.006-05:00

Kelsey is an artist, avid reader, and self proclaimed tomboy. I don't how it happens, but I seriously get the best clients. Kelsey and her mom were easy-going and SO MUCH fun to work with. We ended up getting carried away and going way over our schedule session time; and I was loving every second of it.

As an added bonus, if there are 25 comments on this post from 25 different people within a week, then they get a free 5x7!

My favorite part of the session was incorporating Kelsey's artwork.

Serious about books...

Kelsey wanted to incorporate her favorite coffee shop into the shoot. Now this a girl I can hang with!

Kelsey Preview

2009-11-22T18:06:00.002-05:00

More to come in a couple days from this wonderful session!

H Family

2009-11-17T18:37:00.004-05:00

Get a load of this AH-DOR-ABLE family!

Sophia at 6 months

2009-11-03T20:37:00.003-05:00

I'm thrilled to be documenting the first year of this little cutie's life. She was so good natured with an overload of cute looks and serious stares, and I had an absolute blast capturing it with the camera.

So help Sophia parents get a free 5x7 by leaving a comment; because if they get 25 different comments on this post within a week, that's exactly what they'll receive.

Sophia 6 months- Preview

2009-11-01T12:04:00.003-05:00

More to come from this adorable session in a couple days!

George & Tara Wedding

2009-10-25T17:48:00.004-04:00

An avid soccer player, Tara had two tickets to the D.C. United soccer game; but she also had an injured right leg and no one to drive her. A friend of hers said that he knew of a guy who would enjoy the game and be willing to drive. It was George who pulled into her driveway; and the rest, as they say, is history.

George and Tara said their vows at the 326 year old Blandfield Plantation on a beautiful October afternoon, and I was privileged to capture the moment.

Congratulations, George and Tara; may your future hold many beautiful moments and much love.

A Family

2009-10-07T13:30:00.004-04:00

Modi and Randi decided that after well over decade of being together, marrying and having a family, it was high time for some professional family portraits. So you can imagine how thrilled I was when they contacted me for such a privilege. And as an extra bonus, they were all so beautiful and photogenic!

Thanks, guys, for such a fun, laughter-filled photo shoot!

If there are 25 comments on this post from 25 different people within a week, then they get a free 5x7. So help them out!

A Family Preview

2009-10-05T13:31:00.003-04:00

Keep your eye out...more to come in a couple days!!

S Family

2009-09-25T16:41:00.002-04:00

S Family Preview

2009-09-24T15:00:00.002-04:00

Tyler

2009-09-22T15:24:00.003-04:00

Thanks, Tyler, for carrying that heavy desk around, bearing with my poor parking skills, and being a good sport!

Tyler Preview

2009-09-19T21:40:00.003-04:00

More to come...

I'm Baaaack!!

2009-09-13T21:03:00.002-04:00

After almost a month long break filled with two wonderful and relaxing vacations, I'm back and ready to roll.... or shall we say shoot.

As I did last year, I'm offering an early fall special of $25 off the regular price session fee for any photo shoots that you book now to take place before the end of October. But this year, you'll need to move fast since I only have a couple more spots available. When you book your session, just mention seeing this post to receive the discount.

I'll sign off this post with a couple photos of some of my favorite little people on our beach vacation. Have a great week!

Vacation Time!

2009-08-14T21:14:00.000-04:00

My family has saved all our vacations for the end of summer, and I'm thrilled to getting a chance to relax and spend time with my favorite people! So, I just wanted to let everyone know that I'll be taking a three week photography break. Feel free to still send me an email for any session requests, but I won't be back to doing photo shoots until the second week in September.

I thought I'd leave with a few shots of my own family. I got to play the role of client and a local photographer friend of mine did our session:

Have a great last bit of summer!

Sophia- 3 months

2009-08-07T11:21:00.007-04:00

It's a fact that the only time in your life that rolls add to your cuteness is during the baby years. When else can someone have four rolls on their arms and have people coo over how adorable it is? Well, little Miss Sophia is taking full advantage of this fact, and wears her rolls as cute as they come. She had a sweet, laid-back personality and was very compliant with all my camera antics. She was also ready to munch on any prop I put within her grasp, and if there were no props around she was content to just chew on her dress.

If Sophia's post has at least 25 individual comments within the next week, then her mom and dad get a free 8x10 of a photo of their choice. So help them out!

Jim & Bonnie- Celebrating Marriage!

2009-08-04T22:50:00.004-04:00

This photo shoot was nothing short of an honor. The reason for the shoot is that Jim and Bonnie were celebrating there 25th wedding anniversary. And let me tell you, the sparks were flying between these two much as any newlyweds.

They made me laugh so many times. At times they were giggling together while later they were singing a duet of "Put Your Head on My Shoulder". But I think my favorite part of it all was the way that Bonnie looked at Jim. After a quarter of a century of marriage, the adoration in her eyes made me want to run home and hug my hubby tight. Thanks to both of you for allowing me to document this special anniversary.

And as before if there are 25 comments on this post (from 25 different people) in the next week, then Jim and Bonnie get a free 8x10 of a photo of their choice.

Jim & Bonnie Preview

2009-08-03T15:07:00.002-04:00

More to come in a day or two...

Mason- Newborn

2009-07-24T21:36:00.006-04:00

I showed up at Mason's house to meet him and take his first portraits, and I was delighted to find such an adorable little photo subject! His mommy and daddy were such good sports through the whole shoot, and I had fun watching them swoon over him. I was a bit giddy with excitement as I finally got to do some outdoor newborn shots! Woo-hoo!

Okay, so for some extra fun, if there are 25 comments on this post (from 25 different people...no double dipping :o) in the next week, then Mason's mom and dad get a free 8x10 of a photo of their choice.

Mason Preview

2009-07-23T21:18:00.003-04:00

I'll blog more on this shoot in a day or two, but here's a quick one from the newborn session today....and, yes, he's as snuggly as he looks...

B Family

2009-07-06T11:39:00.004-04:00

Fun family + bright colors + urban location= happy photographer. :o)

I love my job!

B Family Preview

2009-06-30T16:17:00.003-04:00

I've had a bunch to do around the house today, but I just had to sneak away for a bit to process at least one photo from last night's super fun family shoot...

C at 5 months

2009-06-17T15:50:00.002-04:00

I've been neglecting this blog more than my potted plant; so I'm back at it with a photos of this cutie. This little guy was more interested in his feet than my camera, but we managed to get some shots.

G Family

2009-05-08T12:53:00.006-04:00

We were planning taking some photos down by the Tidal Basin, but intense winds sent us on a 2 mile hike to the Botanical Gardens. I had never been there before; and from a photographer's point of view, it was love at first sight.

T Family

2009-04-22T22:19:00.003-04:00

I was so honored to take the first portraits for this family. A few months ago this couple adopted these two beautiful children, a brother and sister, from Ethiopia; and you can tell from the photos how much love there is in this new family.

Calling All '10 Seniors

2009-04-17T13:44:00.003-04:00

This is a shout out to all 2010 high school graduates! I'm running a promo for anyone who is ready to get on the ball with senior photos. Any senior portrait sessions booked before the end of May will receive a $25 discount off the cost of the sitting fee. (They don't have to be schedule for then, just booked by that time.)

But bigger and better than that, the first two 2010 seniors to book their sessions will receive $50 discount off the sitting fee for a medium or large session! I've also set up a fun referral program for all my seniors.

Your senior photos should be eye-catching, fresh, and fun, So contact me at alyssa@alyssaannephotography.com

Isabella- One Year

2009-04-08T13:44:00.005-04:00

This little girl was nothing but pure sweetness as we took her portrait in our windy spring weather. Her mom talked about how fast she is growing, and I was reminded again why I love portrait photography. To capture a fleeting moment in a child's life is a priceless thing.

H Family

2009-04-06T23:15:00.004-04:00

This sweet family was so patient with me as I had them trekking on a sometimes muddy trail in their beautiful clothes. I smiled while watching the girls fuss over each other's hair like only a mom and daughter can do as poor dad carried my red chair all over the park for me. They were troopers, and I enjoyed every minute of it!

Facebook

2009-03-19T13:48:00.004-04:00

I got my act together and finally put up a Facebook page for my biz. For clients, the best part is that I can tag you on your own photos; because who wouldn't want to show off their new baby or latest portraits to their friends?!

So if you're on Facebook, check out the Alyssa Anne Photography page. And if you're a client who has not been tagged on your own photos, just "friend" me; and I'll make sure it happens!

Koa

2009-03-11T16:11:00.004-04:00

Little Koa was sweet and snuggly and was intent on trying to suck his thumb. His dad is into rock climbing; so I got to incorporate that into some of the shots...so fun!

Isaiah

2009-02-14T13:17:00.002-05:00

Need a Baby Shower Gift Idea?

2009-02-10T16:04:00.007-05:00

My husband used to be a salesman and is good at it. He'll try to sell you on anything- his favorite cell phone company, his favorite shoe brand. He's spent more than one dinner conversation convincing someone that they need something. And this is an area where opposites must attract, because I'm the world's worst salesperson. I love what I do and believe that I sell quality products, but am too timid about trying to sell myself. A blog post like this makes me feel weird and all my words seem cheesy to me. But oh well, I have no choice; and the post must go on. So here we go...

I am now offering a 25% discount for all gift cards purchased for Newborn Photo Shoots. This is an excellent gift idea for a baby shower. Imagine how special it would be to give a mom-to-be professional photos that she can truly treasure forever.

Gift certifates can be purchased for any amount, and look something like this:

For more information, please contact me at alyssa@alyssaannephotography.com

...maybe I should just hire my husband.

We Have A Winner...

2009-02-01T00:15:00.002-05:00

While American Idol is still mesmerizing people, we had our own little viewer-judging over here with a whopping 485 votes- not bad for a little blog contest! And the winner... is going to be announced after this commercial break...(doesn't that drive you up a wall even though you know it's coming!)

No seriously, the winner of our 2008 favorite photo contest is:

Congrats to little Felicity and her family; an 11x14 of the photo will be on its way! And thanks so much to everyone who stopped by and voted.

Carter

2009-01-24T17:13:00.006-05:00

2008 Favorites Contest

2009-01-15T10:18:00.009-05:00

What's more fun than a contest!? Even though this is still a fairly young blog, I thought I'd do a contest for some of my favorite photos from 2008, and YOU get to be the judge. ANYONE can vote, but please keep it to one vote per person. The photo with the most votes will be printed as an 11x14 (normally sold for $50) for that client. This contest ends on January 31st at midnight. If you see one of your photos on the list, make sure you tell friends and family members to vote!

#10

#11

Note: If for some reason the voting icon just above this is not working, please try refreshing your browser. If this still does not solve the problem, feel free to email me your vote at: alyssa@alyssaannephotography.com

Ethan

2009-01-05T14:10:00.005-05:00

I have to admit that half the fun of a newborn shoot is just getting the chance to hold a newborn. I'm captured every time by the soft skin, silky hair, and that wonderful baby smell. This little guy was as cute as they come. He had definite opinions on how warm and wrapped he needed to be, and he just melted my heart.

Cousins

2008-12-18T11:47:00.002-05:00

Have a very Merry CHRISTmas!!

C Maternity

2008-12-02T20:05:00.003-05:00

The G Kids

2008-11-20T19:07:00.002-05:00

Evelyn

2008-11-18T16:12:00.002-05:00

G & D

2008-11-15T16:06:00.003-05:00

Storyboard

2008-11-13T20:17:00.000-05:00

Carly

2008-11-12T14:06:00.008-05:00

I love having fun with senior photo shoots, and this one from last week was a ton of fun. You can tell my subject had personality to spare. We were both like a kids in a candy store thinking up all kinds of fun shots and giggling like only girls can.