AMBUSH Makeover Event [Clinton County, IL Photographer]

Right before Valentine's Day, we were part of an AMBUSH Makover Event. It took place at Lillians of LebanonLillians of Lebanon and the hair and make-up portion of the makeover was created by Perfectly Polished SalonPerfectly Polished Salon. Three women were chosen out of the crowd to be "ambushed". They were then whisked away to be made over! Wardrobe coordinators picked out a new outfit and Nicole and her crew went to work on hair, airbrush make-up and manicures. All while they were being pampered, out in the store we were having a party! Shopping, eating, drinking :) Allison from Perfectly Polished gave a tutorial on how to create a better smokey eye and we gave a short lesson on how to take a better selfie and how to pose with your hubby/boyfriend or girlfriends :) I think everyone got a big kick out of some of my tips, including please refrain from bathroom selfies and find yourself a window for the prettiest lighting :) PLUS, anyone who attended could have their headshot taken with our fashion lighting and Valentine's themed backdrop. When it was time for the big reveal, the "ambushed" ladies all came out one at a time and finally got to look in the mirror - Seeing their response was awesome! Then, they got professional headshots from us! :) It was a blast by all (and of course I picked up some new items while I was there, I mean let's be honest, I wasn't going to resist!). If you haven't been there yet, definitely try it out - they have super cute and unique stuff! Plus, the staff is really helpful! Check out some images from the night :)

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Hannah - 4 Days New. [Clinton County, IL Photographer]

Recently, sweet Hannah came in for her newborn portraits at just 4 days news. To say she gave me baby fever is an understatement! She was so sweet and slept practically the whole time - I may have gotten peed on a few times, but we all got a good laugh and some beautiful images, so I'd say it's worth it. Moms know that's pretty much the norm with a newborn baby! And, to top it off, mom and dad are huge Packers fans! Being a Packers fan myself (If any of you know my husband, you know he is THE Packers fan!), I was loving the cute tutu and GB headband! All together, I loved having Hannah in the studio and I'm so glad we captured some beautiful images!

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Josh - Mater Dei Catholic High School [Clinton County, IL Photographer]

With the yearbook deadline approaching, we got to photograph a few seniors in this gorgeous snow! Josh was one of them and I'm so glad he called us! We had a great time photographing him - He's a true gentlemen and I love the way his images turned out! At first, we weren't planning on using the coat, but I'm so glad we did! I love the MD logo! The Black and White was his favorite - I think it makes him look like a model!Thanks so much for coming in Josh!

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Ms. Kaylyn is 3! [Clinton County, Illinois Photographer]

With the excitment of the New Year, we realized we never posted on the blog for Ms. Kaylyn! I always adore photographing this family - Kaylyn is so full of energy and life and she has the BEST style! Compliments to her beautiful mamma, I'm sure :) At her session, Kaylyn told me all about her birthday party, her farm and of course, her little brother. I know she's a wonderful big sister and helper! Love seeing her in the studio!

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Las Vegas or BUST! [Clinton County, IL Photographer]

This time next week, we'll be enjoying awesome sights and beautiful weather, on top of some of the best education the photography industry can offer. We're headed to Vegas for a few workshops and I couldn't be more excited! Last time I was there, it was for a WPPI National convention in 2012 - I met some incredible role models of mine and even got to spend a little time sight seeing. This time, we're headed not only to that same convention again, but also to another workshop centered on senior photography. It's going to be AMAZING! Last time around, I brought my husband along (who spent most of his time golfing ;)). This time, our own creative director, Amy, is packing her bags. She has been studying photography for the past year and has come a long way - I can't wait to see her put some of the knowledge into action at the workshops. PLUS we're looking forward to seeing some new products from top labs and coming home with lots of incredible education and some new products! I get so excited for these workshops every year because, for me, it's like the spark. It gives me the tools I need to KNOW we are providing the best possible portraits, products and service that we possibly can.

Here's to another awesome year!

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