My Little Pony (in real life)

When I was 10, growing up in Chicago, my sisters were embarrassed to walk to school with me. The fact that I ‘galloped’ all the way on my imaginary horse was more than they could take.I galloped anyway, fueling my cowgirl dreams with visits to the library. I read every horse book they had, especially the Black Stallion book series by Walter Farley. At 45,  I finally signed up for a four week series of lessons, learning to saddle, groom and ride. I have a powerful memory of walking to the corral, leading the horse, and feeling like that kid … Continue reading My Little Pony (in real life)

The Four Gracielas

Once upon a time, families had portraits painted of their children when they reached a certain age. The paintings were displayed in their homes (or castles, as the case may be) to celebrate their long lineage. A number of my clients have kept up this tradition, and had me create a special portrait of each child, usually around 5-7 years old. Today I can combine the realism of a photographic portrait with the elegance of a painting. A true likeness, that captures their sweet young faces, before their adult teeth came in and everything changed. A true portrait of childhood. … Continue reading The Four Gracielas

How to Look Great In Photos (no matter who takes them)

By now, everyone is back to school, in one way or another, and we know what that means.Holidays are right around the corner. While the traditional family and workplace gatherings will undoubtedly be different this year, we can still send … Continue reading How to Look Great In Photos (no matter who takes them)

Play Ball!!

Family portraits with style are the most fun. What is your family’s storytelling style? The best portrait sessions start with a conversation: What does your family love to do? And how can we incorporate that into your session? If you know Mike and Jessie, you know they love baseball, and so do the kids. Naturally, that needed to be a part of their latest family session. Last time, we went with classic casual, so this year, we upped the game. You know how you get dressed up for a special occasion and think, “Man, we look good!” Well, I believe … Continue reading Play Ball!!

Unicorns or Dragons?

Are your children and grandchildren like mine?  While I always liked horse as a girl,  unicorns are all the rage now.  Soft and beautiful, every little girl’s dream pet. Unless they prefer dragons! Or maybe both.  From Disney princesses to Dungeons and Dragons, your child’s imagination is boundless.  When I saw these wonderful stuffed creatures, I knew they needed a home at the studio. How much would your child love a portrait of themselves with a unicorn or dragon? Now is the chance.  For a short while, This Magic Moment Portraits will be available at an introductory price. Imagine one … Continue reading Unicorns or Dragons?

Baby Days

Baby days.  I remember them well. Well, as much as I can recall the sleepy weeks after each of our three children arrived. Fragments of the most amazing times… I remember my husband and I staring down at the crib that held tiny Matthew, all snuggled up, astonished at the miracle we had created.  Angela was the first girl in my husband’s family in 24 years, and the haze of pink that accompanied her birth was as soft and delightful as she. Joseph’s arrival was especially memorable, since I had knee surgery the next day, but that’s another story. In … Continue reading Baby Days

Three Tips for Dressing for Portraits

Usually the first question clients ask about portraits is : What should we wear?  Well, that can depend on whether you are planning a family session, an executive portrait or a fabulous Cashmere Session, compete with hair, make up and … Continue reading Three Tips for Dressing for Portraits