When I first started in the photographic business, I had so much to learn- specially in regards to a Lab. I tried two different ones (with terrible outcomes!) and finally settled with the third due to their quality and great customer service.
My lab is based in Iowa. Now this may seem like a down side at times- for one I cannot pick up my order on the same day BUT they do have overnight service for those clients that need rush orders. Another down side is that I cannot personally talk to a sales rep but on the other hand I can always email or even call my sales rep directly. Two down sides isn't bad! Especially when you count the many good sides.... for example the variety of size prints, cards, mounts and finishes that they offer. Not to mention their speedy service. Most importantly, though I chose them because of their high paper quality. After all, when you hire me to photograph your family I am creating a keepsake that must last for generations to come. You are making an investment in preserving fleeting moments and stages in life. You seek the best therefor I also must seek the same. That in a nutshell explains my lab choice.
Now you may be wondering why I'm talking up my lab. Well, it just so happends that once again they made me happy to have chosen them. They just sent me a notice of a 'big print special'. Any print 16x20 or larger is offered at a significant discount through the month of March. I choose to pass on this discount to you as well. So.... call to place your large print order! ANY large print (past photo shoots, current photo shoots and even prints from the art gallery store) are 25% off! And don't forget that all large prints are mounted on dry mount board and luster sprayed so all you have to do is find a frame!

Silverton Anniversary trip part 2

As promised, today I will share my second day of our 10th anniversary outing. After a nice hot breakfast we ventoured out to explore the Silverton sorroundings. Our first stop was the Gallon House Bridge. This covered bridge was built in 1916 and is a beautiful reminder of years past. They say that the Bridge got its name because the house just across it made alcohol by the gallon when Silverton was 'dry'.


From the covered bridge we followed the road to the town of Mt. Angel. This is an old Swedish town founded by catholic priests. We visited the abby and found it to be a peaceful place full of rich history. It was a typical day in Oregon-- rain and fog so we really were not able to walk the beautiful grounds of the abby but we did manage to get some cool shots of the historical church.

Silverton Anniversary trip

My husband and I recently celebrated our 10th anniversary! Most people thought that getting engaged our senior/junior years in High School was a BAD idea and as the Shania Twain song goes... 'they'll never make it, but just look at us holding on, we're still together, still going strong...'

I love that song, always have! Anywhoo a toast to my wonderful hubby and I =) He is still my wonderful prince charming who swept me off my feet. To celebrate he did it again and took me on a mini getaway---okay, really it was only two days but with his busy schedule it was a sacrifice for him to leave things aside and focus on us. He planned the whole thing himself- extra points for that- romantic dinner and all. Of course he knows the way to my heart... antique store browsing. I will post images from the second day but here is day one:

How to Spot a Photo Phony

Trying to save a few extra dollars on your photography isn’t worth the risk

By Anna Sachse
CTW Features

If that photographer who offers eight hours of shoot time, a book of 50 pictures and a high-res CD of all your images, all for under $1,000, sounds too good to be true, it just may be. According to The Wedding Report, a wedding industry tracker, recent trends have shown a proliferation of untrained, inexperienced wedding photographers. Working out of their homes, they tend to undercharge clients but use inferior equipment and create images of lesser quality than professional photographers. Couples might think they’re getting a deal, but, in essence, they’re wasting $1,000.
continue reading Anna Sachse's article at http://mysanantonio.ctwfeatures.com/bridesguide/bridal_20081204_photos.html