1.31.08 : : My Special Little Guy Turns 2

Little Eli (my first baby client ever) was back in the studio tonight for his two-year session. Little Eli and I go way back and it was SO fun to see him running around and showing off his cute, toothy smile.

He also had a wide range of emotions to bring to the camera this evening which made it a real treat to work with him!

There was Introspective. and Aloof.

The Pouty Model face.Carefree.

Shock and Dismay.

Excited!!
Sassy.
And of course, Thoughtful Cowboy.
I'm sorry about the unfortunate ear little Eli. I was afraid if I stopped to fix your hat you would totally not put it back on. Nice range of emotions though today. You rocked that shoot!

And the Winner is...

Julie & Captain!
I loved the memory of the Pipeworks and how ingenious you were with these toys. Fun and functionality! Send me an email at amy@acarrollphotography.com to claim your certificate.

Truthfully, it was hard to choose a winner and I absolutely loved hearing about all of your favorite toys!

Sandy - I loved your memory of Gloworms! I totally had Gloworms as a kid and my favorite was the butterfly one.

And She-rah! She was fabulous. As was Jem, Rainbow Brite, and Smurfette. Fun memories everyone!

And of course Barbie with her many many shoes will always have a special spot in my heart. That girl truly did know how to live.

1.30.08 : : Reverting Back to My Youth

Even though I really really really want to complain about the snow, again, I'm going to hold back and instead focus on something a bit more heart-warming.

A good friend of mine got me these two ponies as a Chrsitmas gift this year, knowing that I had great love for My Little Ponies as a child. They sit on my desk and bring a smile to my face remembering the many years I spent collecting the colorful toys and playing with them with my friends. I even had a brief stint collecting them again as an adult when Ebay first arrived on the scene.

So today, on this blustery winter day let's turn our focus not on the freezing temperatures but on warm childhood memories. I want to hear what your favorite toy was growing up. It seems that many of you blog commenters have been in hibernation so I'm even giving an incentive for the best comment on this subject. The winner will receive a $25 gift certificate to Amy Carroll Photography!

Let Them Eat Fabulous Cake!

Barb Hoek, owner of Sweet Cakes Design, is one of my favorite bakers in all of West Michigan. Her wedding cakes are amazing and she uses only freshest and best ingredients. I love the three fillings of goodness that are in each slice! With beautiful cake designs, a creative staff and affordable prices, Sweet Cakes definitely has a lot to offer.

Sweet Cakes designed my wedding cake nearly three years ago when my husband and I got married and I recommend her to all of my brides and grooms to be.

So why am I talking this vendor up so much today? Because the Sweet Cakes website is finally up and running!

http://www.sweetcakesdesignllc.com/

And don't think that you have to be getting married to enjoy the cake goodness. We order all of our anniversary and birthday cakes from Sweet Cakes.

Congratulations Barb and all of the Sweet Cakes staff. Your site is beautiful!

Take the Plunge! A Marathon Trash the Dress Session!

(for easier viewing, click on image to enlarge)

For all of you fabulous brides, brides-to-be, or girls who just want to wear their dress again, make sure to sign up for this promotion. It is sure to be a fabulously fun time!

But who is Mirror Mirror Studio you might ask? It's none other than the fearless photography duo of Jen of JK Photography and myself! Blog coming soon to keep everyone updated on exciting studio announcement and specials. And speaking of cute logos, if you haven't been to the Pearls Events blog lately, hop on over and take advantage of booking the fabulous Aletha for your wedding next summer! I can't say enough about how wonderful and passionate she is about weddings, and I am lucky enough to have quite a few weddings that we will both be working together this year!


Right now she is running a promo to get 10% off of her package prices if you book before Valentine's Day.

1.28.08 : : Sweet

I didn't take this picture today...I actually took it yesterday. Today we refinanced our home and it there was just nothing particularly inspiring or exciting about signing hundreds of documents. So instead, I bring you sweet little Jaida and Brownie, a beautiful collie-mix. And since the above isn't such a fabulous picture of Brownie, here is a better one:

I just can't help myself from taking pictures of cute children and fuzzy dogs.

1.27.08 : : Hair is a Family Affair

Today was a day of hair transformation for my friend Angie's sister and mom. I did an impromptu photo shoot for them after their hair was styled to perfection. What girl doesn't feel their absolute best after having their hair done?

And you can't tell that these two are related at all can you?

I totally I adore Leasa's posh new bob haircut. I also totally cannot pull this look off. I'm stuck in a hair rut!

1.26.08 : : A Cheeseburger in Paradise

Tonight I took a little break from the snow and cold weather and had a cheeseburger in paradise. Or a cheeseburger at a place called Cheeseburger in Paradise in Kalamazoo...not a palm tree-covered island. Sigh.

The decor was islandy and fun and I drank a key lime martini. It was a little slice of tropical heaven.

1.25.08 : : Snow Dog

Whenever Tanner sees me put my boots on, the enivitable excitement at the prospect that he might get to go outside sets in. Looking outside at all of the snow drifts in our yard, I could only imagine that the funness would wear off quickly for my small chihuahua. But, I thought I would let him check it out for himself and grabbed my camera.

He loved it so very much that he even stopped to give a model pose.

1.24.08 : : Say Cheesy!

This is what happens when I have too much time on my hands in the studio.

I had my last Bid for Bachelors and Bachelorettes shoot this evening and basically it's an open time frame when the participants can come in for their headshots. Well, the first hour was going slower than the second and I started to think of things to do while I was waiting. I did some cleaning, changed around my lighting, and then thought perhaps I should test my new lighting set up.

The result is a lot of very dorky pictures of yours truly. I'm definitely happier to be on the other side of the lens!

1.23.08 : : Lil' Blue Eyes

Trevor just turned 1 year old and came into the studio today to show off his bright blue eyes.

Alison + Jordan : : Wedding Preview!

When : : Saturday, January 19, 2008

Where : : Ceremony - Spring Lake Weselyan Church, Reception - Spring Lake Country Club

Highlight of the Day : : It certainly wasn't the weather, but despite the chilly and snowy conditions, guests, family, and friends all enjoyed celebrating with Alison and Jordan on their wedding day. There is something truly beautiful about shooting outdoors with that white dress and black tux against the stark white snow. I truly appreciated their willingness to indulge me in a few outdoor shots!



This moment was so touching...this bridesmaid was so overwhelmed at how lovely Alison looked in her wedding dress that she had a hard time containing the tears.

Congratulations Alison and Jordan! Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your day!

1.22.08 : : Brrr.

So today Jen and I headed home from our fun stay at the Grand Traverse Resort in Traverse City. It was cold and snowy. And cold.

This was a little cluster of trees taken from our room this morning. The snow is beautiful but I'm ready for it to take its leave.

1.21.08 : : Two for the Price of Fun

Today Jen and I went out on a grand adventure to the Grand Traverse Resort. Jen had a photo shoot with her clients at the Resort and she asked if I might want to go along with her. A chance to get out of the house for a little mid-winter break and a comped room?! Fabulous!

The above picture is a picture of Jen taking a picture. Us photographer types sure know how to have a good time!

Actually, we had a marvelous time and enjoyed dining at the resort's newest restaurant at the top of tower called Aerie. If you are ever traveling in the area, I cannot recommend it enough. Jen and I were so inspired by the food that we both took pictures of the delicious crab cakes, featured above in Jen's camera's viewfinder. For the actual picture (and some more fun from the day) you can check out her blog.

1.20.08 : : Spring Fever

While at the grocery store this weekend, I happened upon this little miniture Iris potted plant among a selection of springtime flowers. The scent of them stopped me in my tracks and I had to bring one home. Looking outside at the swirling snow and being bundeled up all day watching a marathon session of America's Next Top Model (thank you MTV) has me ready for some warmer temperatures.

1.19.08 : : Congratulations Alison and Jordan!

Today, on the coldest day ever, Alison and Jordan were married in a beautiful ceremony in Spring Lake.

Can you believe this couple....especially Alison...who braved the cold for a very quick jaunt outdoors to capture the falling snow? I gave them mega props for enduring the chilly temperatures and even though my poor fingers were chilled to the bone afterwards, I was thrilled to get some beautiful winter portraits for them.

Look for a teaser gallery of their wedding later this week. And to Alison and Jordan...congratulations! Enjoy a warm, tropical honeymoon for all of us left here in the cold!

1.18.08 : : Mullets...Making a Comeback!

Thankfully, I'm kidding. And thankfully, these mullets are wigs!

Tonight I was down at Crush Nightclub to photograph all of the fabulous and fun bachelors and bachelorettes for a Meet and Greet. The 11th Annual Bid for Bachelors and Bachelorettes will be here on February 9. Tickets are on sale now!

1.17.08 : : Shoot #3

Today was another day of taking pictures of beautiful people for the upcoming Bid for Bachelors and Bachelorettes. This is going to be one fabulous event!

1.16.08 : : Feeling Nostalgic

The winter blah's are finally getting to me, despite the sunny skies today. As I was going through some old files today, I found some that I took in Grand Haven this past summer and thought I might share them with you all. Summer and warm weather cannot come soon enough!

1.15.08 : : Bid for Bachelors and Bachelorettes Shoot #2

This evening was round two of headshots for the upcoming Bid for Bachelors and Bachelorettes, and as always was such a blast!

There was also a meeting held afterwards for the committee at the new and ultra chic ultra lounge Eve which is the newest hot spot in Grand Rapids. It is also where this fabulous event will be held next month.

And if this event sounds too good to pass up, but your not of the single crowd anymore, we are looking for volunteers and sponsors who would be interested in helping with this very fun and very fabulous event. All of the proceeds stay right here in West Michigan to help those who are affected with Cystic Fibrosis. If you're interested in volunteering, you can email Michelle at mripley@pmcpa.com for more information.

Or, if you are of the single crowd and are interested in more information, you can visit the website at http://www.bidforbach.org/ for more information.

Just A Reminder : : Sign Up Today for the Beginner's Photography Workshop!

Want to learn to take pictures like this?

Class spots are filling up quickly so I encourage all who are interested in learning more about photography and thier cameras to sign up soon.

As a reminder, you can find all of the details here.

Jen and I are so excited to be offering this class and have a great day in store. Please feel free to email either of us for more information:

amy@acarrollphotography.com

info@jkphotographyonline.com

Nikki + Scott : : Wedding Preview!

When: Friday, January 4, 2008 (first wedding of the new year!)

Where: English Hills Terrace, Grand Rapids, MI

Highlight of the Day: Not only did I love working with Jen for this wedding, I just loved being back in the swing of things shooting a wedding! As soon as we walked into the hotel room where all of the wedding party was getting together, I knew it would be a fun day. The girls had a suite where they were getting ready and there were girls, boys, and kids everywhere. It was such a fun atmosphere and continued all day long. Congratulations to this happy couple!

This little one could not be more excited to be in her wedding attire.

Jen working her magic.

So serious....
But there's a smile!

This beautiful bride put all of her flowers together herself. They turned out amazing!

And despite the very cold temperatures, these two were troopers for some outside shots.

I'm still not convinced this bridesmaid is not Giada De Laurentiis Sometimes you just want to let loose a little...

Barb Hoek and her staff are phenominal. This cake was amazing! I loved the design and colors.

The reception was decorated in pinks, blacks, whites and silvers and they had beautifully wrapped presents incorporated into much of the decor.

This little ladies man was practicing up...
Looks like he's got his moves down to impress all the girls!

1.13.08 : : City of Love

Amy and Aaron are one adorable couple!

I was so excited to have an engagement shoot this weekend. Winter can be a slower time for these sessions and I can honestly say I have missed it. It sure didn't hurt that these two were fun and energetic and made working with them hardly like work at all.

They also had a special request to do a shoot looking over downtown from the Bridgewater Place which I was more than happy to oblige to. Plus, what better way to show off those fabulous hot pink shoes! (I had shoe envy!!)

1.12.08 : : A Baby Story

Early this morning...3:55 to be exact...my phone rang. Immediately I knew it was my friend Mary, telling me she was in labor.

A few months ago Mary, a close childhood friend, asked if I might be interested in capturing the birth of their fourth (and final) child. I immediately agreed!

Knowing that she was getting close to her due date, I went to bed Friday night with the phone close to my bed. My intuition was right on.

Never having witnessed a birth before, I wasn't quite sure what I was in for. I must admit that while I was excited, I was also just a tad apprehensive. I have a severe medical phobia and was hoping their blessed moment bringing in their new baby wasn't cut short by me passing out on the delivery room floor.

Thankfully that was not the case. It was truly one of the most amazing experiences I've been able to witness. And if any of you are worried that I might be sharing the actual pictures of the actual birth...fear not. They won't be posted here.

Here is an excited mom-to-be as she arrived at the hospital (Mary, forgive me for posting this. I think you look adorable here).

All looks good so far!

Ken, waiting patiently. Although, there wasn't a lot of waiting to be done. This baby was in a hurry to make his debut!

One last picture of the bump.
Oh my goodness....why so many of these?! I was starting to get a little nervous upon seeing this tray.
Mary, seriously...you look gorgeous. You don't even look like you're having a contraction here.

And now!....

Now!

Introducing Andrew Carson, seconds old, a little purple, and all kinds of smooshy-faced cuteness!

Happy Birthday Andrew! Look at all of that hair!
It's love at first site.
Ten tiny fingers and ten tiny toes.Being born can really tire a little guy out!

His first bath.

His first swaddle.His first bottleHis first adorable hat.

Congratulations Ken and Mary! Thank you for letting me be a part of this amazing day.

Under Construction...

...Grand Rapids. Or at least Michigan Street.

1.10.08 : : Le Yum

Ever wondered what you should do with a day old french baguette? Well as it turns out, squirells love 'em!

1.09.08 : : Place Your Bids Girls...

...this cutie is for sale!

On February 9, 2008 the 11th Annual Bid for Bachelors and Bachelorettes, to benefit Friends and Families of Cystic Fibrosis, will be taking place at the hot new club Eve in The B.O.B.

This event is near and dear to my heart, as I have been involved for the past seven years to help make it a success. For those of you who might be single, or have a friend, brother, sister, dentist, neighbor, etc. who might be single, this is the hottest singles event in the Grand Rapids area and definitely not an event to be missed! It also helps give support and help to those right here in the West Michigan area who are affected with the disease of Cystic Fibrosis. You can learn more about this disease here.

Tonight was the first night I took headshots at the studio of some of the good looking guys and girls who will be 'bid off' on February 9. All of these volunteers put a lot of time and effort into building amazing date packages. Tickets are on sale now! Go to http://www.bidforbach.org/ for more information.

Sorry boys...this girl's not for sale. She's the fabulous Michelle Ripley...founder and chairperson of this amazing event. She's also a dear friend of mine and I am so excited to help again this year.

Mark your calendars everyone! This is an event not to be missed!

1.08.08 : : A Toy and His Dog

Sweet dreams Tanner J.

1.07.08 : : A Fish-Eye View of a Cat's-Eye View

I love my new fisheye lens. My cat Tommy was this afternoon's target. No one is safe.

A Beginners Photography Workshop : : Sign Up Today!

Mirror Mirror Studio is proud to present our first hands-on workshop of many to come, a Beginners Course to Photography. Do you have a digital or film camera that you would like to learn to use better? Want to shoot like the pros or just take better pictures?

Sign up for a fabulous day of fun and learning with Amy and Jen on Saturday, March 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and learn the ins and outs of your camera, manual controls and composition with a split session of learning and shooting with live models.

You will learn to:

-Use the manual controls on your camera

-Learn how to use available light
-Pose your subjects
-Compose your shots & much more!

There will be ample opportunity for any and all of your questions as well as an outlined curriculum with everything you need to know to start using your camera more efficiently. We hope you will leave the workshop feeling excited, exhilerated and ready to go out there and conquer the photography world!

Lunch will be provided for you and the class will be limited to 20 participants so as to have a lot of opportunity for one-on-one learning. The cost for the workshop is $150. We will also stick around after the workshop for anyone interested in a private session for an extra $100.

Seating is limited and will be based on a first-come, first-serve basis. Payment can be made through PayPal or by check.We encourage all of those who are interested in learning their camera's better to sign up. This will be fun day of learning and shooting and we couldn't be more excited to be offering this!

To sign up, simply email either Jen at info@jkphotographyonline.com or amy@acarrollphotography.com.

Hope to see you there!

1.06.08 : : Gina's Gonna Be a Mommy!

What is more fun than showering a new mom-to-be with presents? Taking pictures of showering the new mom with presents!

This afternoon I had the pleasure of capturing Gina's baby shower for her and her family. Gina will soon be welcoming a baby boy and she couldn't be more excited.

The guests were also welcomed to shower their food with chocolate!

So decadent!

Don't forget the goody bags

And the all important punch.

This little one was too cute for words!



Congratulations Gina! We can't wait to welcome little Ethan into the world.

1.05.08 : : More Christmas Goodness

Today our family celebrated a post-Christmas celebration with some very special family friends.

Lauren, above, is opening a very special gift I picked up for her in Chicago...her very first piece of Tiffany's!

We were also treated to a wonderful piano performance, complete with Christmas songs.

It's always fun to extend out the Christmas holiday!

1.04.08 : : Congratulations Nikki & Scott!

Today marked my first official wedding of 2008!

The beautiful Nikki and her handsome groom Scott were married today in a beautiful evening ceremony. The couple was even brave enough to head outside for their pictures this afternoon. Looking back at them, you couldn't even tell how chilly they were. Way to brave it out you two!

I also had the pleasure of having Jen work with me as my second shooter today. Angie, who is typically there by my side, was in Florida this week and Jen was kind enough to step in and shoot with me for the day. It was fun collaborating with her and doubling up our creativity. Thanks again Jen! You rocked it yesterday!

Jen directing the boys on how to look fabulous.

12.28.07 - 1.03.07: My Week in Review

Yes, I've been taking a bit of a holiday from my POTD blog. And although I haven't posted much in the past week, I have been taking pictures every day. I appreciate you all being so patient and I promise I won't let it go like this again. Taking a break from everything for a few weeks though has allowed me to relax and get excited for the year ahead!

So here now, is my week in review:

December 28, 2007:


This was my Christmas ornament from Jason's family...a tiny tree filled with shoes. I think they know me pretty well.


December 29, 2007:

Following my cat Mia around the house.

December 30, 2007:

I am mildly obsessed with taking pictures of the birds outside of my window.

December 31, 2007:

Last day to purchase tax write-offs! My splurge? A new fisheye lens. This was my helpful sales associate at Norman's Camera.

And of course, celebrating the new year with a bit of bubbly!

January 1, 2008:

Happy New Year! My new 2008 planner to start off the new year with organization.

January 2, 2008:

My husband serenading me with his guitar.

January 3, 2008:

My new obsession...puzzles! How retro.

And there you have it friends. Thanks for sticking with me.

Happy New Year!

Don't worry my loyal POTD blog followers...I plan to update with fabulous and fun new pictures very soon. I decided to take a very conscious break for the holidays after such a busy busy 2007. I needed some downtime...to step away from my computer, my email, my phone and my camera for just a little while. To reconnect with my family, my friends and to feel refreshed both emotionally and creatively.

I've also had time to think and to reflect on a truly wonderful year. I hope all of you have been able to do the same. At the beginning of 2007, I knew I was in for a year of changes. My biggest change and biggest risk was deciding to make my photography business my full time job. To leave the security of a job I'd been at for over 7 years to pursue my dream of photography. I'll be honest...I had a lot of apprehension...but it was one of the best decisions I made and one that I'm happy I went out on a limb to follow. It wasn't without a lot of prayer and love and support from those I'm closest with though, to make it happen.

I've also made some resolutions to make 2008 one of the best yet. I am looking forward to all of the fabulous weddings that's on the calendar...a very full calendar I'm starting to realize...and looking forward to adding some new things to my plate. More details later, but to those who may have received new cameras from Santa, or those wanting to learn more about photography, be on the lookout for a seminar being held by Jen and I in March.

Also to be returning are the fabulous marathon boudoir sessions...just in time for Valentine's Day!

I also looked back upon last year's POTDs. This was my favorite.

So Happy New Year to all of you. Anyone care to share their New Year resolutions?