Rachael Venema Photography: Blog

RVP "Mommy & Me" Limited Edition Sessions that Celebrates Mothers

Mon, 04 Apr 2016 00:47:54 GMT

INTRODUCING CELEBRATE MOTHERS -

Heartwarming Photos of You with Your Kids Aren't Frivolous...

They are a necessity. Because to them?

You are too INDISPENSABLE to be omitted from their past.

What is it?

Celebrate Mothers creates beautiful artwork of a busy mom and her children, so she can look back when her children have grown and not regret that she was always behind the camera.

The imagery is mixed with her hand-written words answering, "what do you want to remember most about your children at the age they are at right now?" And the words or drawings of her children answering, "what do you love most about your mom?"

Are you interested in being apart of this unique event that truly captures the love you and your children have for each other? photos and words that truly capture a piece of your history?

To find out more about this event sign up HERE and I'll be sending out an email with all the details this week. You don't want to miss it.

Thank you for making 2015 a success! ~ Chattanooga Family Photographer

Mon, 04 Jan 2016 23:09:58 GMT

Thank you to all the RaeVen Photography customers for making 2015 a year to remember! I am truly grateful for you all in giving me the honor to capture your moments in history and allowing me to preserve those special moments in time for you to look back on for years to come. Without you, all RVP provides would not be possible. I look forward to serving you in years to come!

Blessings,

Rachael

Custom Frame Options - Chattanooga Portrait Photographer

Fri, 01 Jan 2016 19:55:45 GMT

I'm so excited to announce some new products that I will be offering in 2016! Here are some photos of the frames I will be offering to my customers this year. RVP strives to provide an excellent service by making everything as simple as possible throughout your experience from your pre-session consultation, to your photo session, to the reveal session and finally when your products are hand delivered to your front door all ready to hang.

Check out these beautiful handmade, custom, barnwood frames. They come in a variety of looks and finishes. These photos are from a recent order that I will be delivering to my customer this week. Everything comes ready to hang, with anchor screws and paper templates for you to easily hang them on your own.

Aren't these frames just lovely! These are purchased from a company that custom makes each individual frame. Everything is hand made from real barn wood! This company also donates a percentage of it's profits to a non-profit each year. This year they are donating to the Bridge2Rwanda program. The mission of the Bridge2Rwanda Scholars Program is to create a fellowship of globally educated, entrepreneurial servant leaders working together in Africa - committed to their countries and one another. I love that my customers can be apart of this just by purchasing frames from RaeVen Photography. It's such a neat way to give back while purchasing beautiful art for your home.

Want to book a session with RaeVen Photography?

RaeVen Photography is here to help you create beautiful art for your home.

Chattanooga Lifestyle Photographer - Lifestyle Sessions at Home

Fri, 27 Nov 2015 18:46:21 GMT

As a Chattanooga Lifestyle Photographer, I often get asked "What is a Lifestyle Photo Session?"

If you haven't had the opportunity to do this, then it's a must have for your family!

We set a time for me to come to your home or a location of your choice, where I capture your family in a documentary style.

Lifestyle photography is an approach to photography that captures authentic moments.

A lifestyle session captures a slice of a family's life, unscripted.

Lifestyle Sessions are a great way to capture your whole family.

It allows both Mom and Dad to be in the pictures and capturing your life, your family just as you are now.

I love capturing moments in your daily life that would otherwise never be captured.

It's these daily moments that will be missed years down the road.

Why not capture them so you can look back on them and remember them even more clearly!

I approach Lifestyle Sessions by finding out what your family likes to do together.

Do you all enjoy cooking together in the kitchen, reading books, playing board games, or playing in the yard?

I'll look for the best natural light in and around your home, give you a little direction, and then start capturing beautiful, timeless images of your family. Capturing your family just being yourselves and enjoying time together.

Interested in a Lifestyle Session? Go to the Contact Me page and to get in touch and book a session!

Don't let life pass you by! A Lifestyle Session allows you to Capture those Memories so you can view them for years to come!

BLACK FRIDAY SPECIAL!!

I'm offering a Discount to the first 5 people that book a Lifestyle Session for Dec 2015 or Jan - March 2016.

Includes a 1 hour Lifestyle Session and a 16x24 canvas for $225! ($475 Value! That's more than 1/2 off!!)

Offer is until November 30, 2015.
E-mail me at [email protected] to book your session!

Sessions will be booked on a first come, first served basis.

Digital files and additional print products may be purchased separately.

Holiday Limited Edition Sessions - Chattanooga Portrait Photographer

Fri, 20 Nov 2015 12:49:43 GMT

RVP Holiday Limited Edition Sessions!

2 Dates Only! Saturday, November 21 or Monday, November 30.

3 Package Options to choose from!

Contact [email protected] to reserve your spot!

Let us help you get your Christmas Cards all ready to go!

Fundraiser Event for the Riley Family - Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Wed, 28 Oct 2015 19:03:10 GMT

RaeVen Photography is honored to have 2 dates set aside to raise funds for my friend Aimee Riley and her family. She has recently been diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer and is in the beginning stages of treatment. Her husband, Scott, is self employed and will have to take off work to support Aimee and their 3 children. To help Aimee in this fight and to help her family, I am hosting 2 afternoons of mini sessions to raise funds for the family.

THE DETAILS:

15 minute photo session includes 5 digital files

Donate to https://www.crowdrise.com/supporttherileys and show me verification of receipt that you have donated to their support website.

Suggested donation is $100 or more. (Minimum required donation of $75.)

Times Available: 3:00, 3:20, 3:40, 4:00, 4:20, 4:40, 5:00

Dates: Thursday, November 5 and Tuesday, November 10

Location: Flintstone, GA

First come, first served. So time slots go to those who book first.

Email [email protected] or call (423) 355-1488 to book and with any questions.

Thank you so much for supporting this sweet family! I know they appreciate everyone's support and prayers during this time.

Blessings,

Rachael

Family Hike at Rainbow Lake, Signal Mountain, TN - Signal Mountain Family Photographer

Sat, 19 Sep 2015 02:16:44 GMT

My family & I enjoyed a beautiful hike at Rainbow Lake on Labor Day. This was the first time we've been able to do this as a family and have all 3 kids do the entire hike on their own. That in itself is quite the accomplishment. My kids are 7, 5 and 3. The 7 and 5 year old did great and surprisingly my 3 year old (or should I say threenager) did as well. Although you can see from the first shot of her that it sure didn't look like the hike was going to start off well. I was just trying to be a kind mom and not allow her to fall head first down a rocky hill and asked her to walk around it to the start of the trail. She wasn't happy with me about that...can you tell? Thankfully once we got started on the trail her mood quickly changed and she was happy again.

Here are some photos for you to enjoy from our hike at Rainbow Lake on Signal Mountain, TN. Enjoy!

Interested in Booking a Family or Lifestyle Session?

Contact me at [email protected] or (423) 355-1488

I love going to new locations for family sessions and this place would be amazing!

RVP Fall Mini Sessions!

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 19:55:50 GMT

RVP Fall Mini Sessions are here! These are offered maybe once a year! This is a great way to get digital files for your Christmas cards. Why not get them ready early so you don't have to rush come December.

One Day Only! Saturday, October 3rd! Limited Availability!

BOOK NOW TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT!

[email protected]

(423) 355-1488

CONTACT ME FOR TIMES AND LOCATION!

Savannah ~ Chattanooga Family Photographer

Thu, 23 Jul 2015 14:23:00 GMT

This baby girl arrived 2 weeks prior to when we thought she would be born and right after I left to go out of town for 2 weeks. I took her newborn photos the day after I returned, and even though she was an older newborn she did wonderfully! This family is very dear to my heart. Prior to the arrival of their beautiful blessing, they went through several years of loss and discouragement not knowing if the Lord planned to give them any children. My heart hurt for them each time I learned that the Lord took their baby to heaven once again. After 2 babies in heaven and a time where they weren't sure if they would have any more children, the Lord gave them hope. Stephanie told me a story of how she was outside her home and a baby hummingbird flew near her. Soon after she learned she was expecting. This was her baby hummingbird. She knew the Lord had showed her a sign.

They found out they were having a baby girl. Such exciting news for Stephanie & Josh. This baby girl is loved by so many and a blessing from above. Meet baby Savannah. She's so beautiful! Oh and another fun fact...her daddy is a football coach and Savannah's initials are SEC (Savannah Elizabeth Craft). Isn't that fun!

Leestma Family ~ Chattanooga Family Photographer

Sun, 19 Jul 2015 01:00:00 GMT

Check out this adorable family! While in NW Indiana I had a quick mini photo session with my sister-in-law and her family. Adam & Charissa make some pretty cute kids. I'm always amazed at how quickly my nieces and nephews grow from the time I last saw them. Since we're 10 hours away, we only get to see them a couple of times each year. But when we do, we always have a great time together. Our kids love playing with their cousins and look forward to every visit with them. Enjoy these sweet pictures of this adorable family!

Twin Baby Girls on the Way! ~ Chattanooga Maternity Photographer

Fri, 17 Jul 2015 23:27:55 GMT

While visiting our families in NW Indiana I had the privilege to photograph my sister-in-law and her family. She is pregnant with twin girls! I'm so exited for them and can't wait to hold them when we go back to visit at Christmas (which will be so hard to wait until then once I know they are here...but such is life when living 10 hours from family). My nephew, Elliot, is going to be an awesome big brother. He is so excited that he gets to be a big brother to two baby girls!!

Congratulations Kyle, Carolyn & Elliot! I can't wait to meet your sweet baby girls!

Nora's Newborn Photos ~ Chattanooga Family Photographer

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 17:32:30 GMT

I was so excited to take Nora's newborn photos. Her parents had her nursery all decorated in alphabet letters, along with teddy bears...old and new. One that was her momma's teddy bear, named Amanda (after a childhoold friend), from when she was a little girl and a new teddy bear for Nora to cherish as she grows. I love capturing pieces of history and incorporating items that the family treasures in their photos. We even captured a picture with Nora's grandmother that was out visiting. A generational photo of Nora with her grandma and mother. I love to think that some day Nora's children and grandchildren will look at these images of her as a baby and even display them around their home.

Being in an age where people often just capture images with their cell phones and just post on facebook, instagram, etc, where images will more than likely be lost when generations go to look for them, these images I capture for my customers are all the more important. These are prints that will be cherished by generations because there won't be many prints or images for them to look at since facebook or instagram will be something else by then and will no longer be the new popular thing. I encourage everyone to print their images. For you and your family to enjoy for generations to come. Think of your images as pieces of your history, moments captured, that you will never get back. Think of how you enjoy looking at images you have of yourself, your parents, your grandparents. Even if it's just a few images, you cherish every one. So print your images my friends! I promise you, that you will never regret it. Don't regret having no pictures to show your children and grandchildren.

Adelaide's 4th Birthday Party ~ Chattanooga Family & Child Photographer

Tue, 28 Apr 2015 14:22:13 GMT

Be ready to meet one of the sweetest, most adorable 4 year old girls you've ever met. Adelaide was dressed in an adorable floral dress all ready for her Rainbow My Little Pony Birthday Party starring The Peter Pan Movie. A beautiful My Little Pony cake. A table full of yummy food from chicken nuggets for the kids to sandwiches for the adults. Old fashioned glass coke bottles, juice boxes, a cheese & cracker platter... her mom did a beautiful job of planning every detail for this party.

The day started off with a forecast of rain and thunderstorms. But as the party began there was one little sprinkle of rain and that was it. So those who attended had plenty of room to either enjoy the beautiful yard or be inside. After supper and the cake were served, the Peter Pan movie was showed out on the lawn. Cute bags of popcorn were handed out for everyone to enjoy while watching the movie.

Enjoy just a handful of photos from this lovely little girl's birthday party. Happy 4th Birthday Adelaide! May you never, ever grow up!

Interested in scheduling a photo session?

Contact Rae Ven Photography at [email protected] or at (423) 355-1488.

www.RaeVenPhoto.com

Powell Family ~ Chattanooga Family & Child Photographer

Fri, 17 Apr 2015 17:33:38 GMT

I've been to this farm a bunch of times now for photo sessions and every time I go I fall even in more love with it. What an amazing place to live and grow up. This family is truly blessed. Between the goats, horses, scenery and lookout mountain in view, it's just breath taking. The Barn at High Point Farms is a gorgeous wedding and event venue.

This was this sweet baby girl's first photo session and she is just so squishy and adorable! Don't you just want to squish her cheeks.

Interested in scheduling a photo session?

Contact Rae Ven Photography at [email protected] or at (423) 355-1488.

www.RaeVenPhoto.com

Challenge to All Moms in 2015: Capture images of YOU with your kids!

Sat, 03 Jan 2015 19:15:06 GMT

It's a new year...2015 is here! And I'll just get right into what's been weighing on my heart.

Moms, how often do you get in the photos with your kids? How often do you stay out of the photos because you're embarrassed of how you look?

Think of all your excuses as to why you aren't in the photos.

Now, speed up about 20+ years from now when you are sitting down looking at images with your kids and notice how few photos you are in. These are your kids' memories. The photos that capture them reading a book, swinging on the swing, at the zoo, swimming in the pool, at the beach, etc. These are the memories that have been captured for them to look back on.

Now go find your photos from when you were a child. Start going through the photos and look if you find very many of your own mom. I just have a few of my mom from when I was younger.

One last thing. Take these questions and go ask your child the questions.

What do you see when you look at me? What do you think of when you think of me? What is your favorite thing about me?

I bet your child will start telling you that they think you're beautiful, kind, smart, funny, etc. (maybe in not those exact words, but in their words). They won't say what you are thinking... I need to lose some weight, I look tired, my hair isn't perfect, I don't have makeup on, I'm still in my pj's, etc. All your child knows is the time you've spent with them and loved them.

Now go get your camera and capture just that. Capture yourself spending time with your children..playing, laughing, reading, cooking, etc. Even let your child capture photos of you.

and guess what... I'm guilty of this too. I'm a photographer...and I love being the one that captures the photos of others. So I'm going to do this challenge as well.

So let's capture moments in 2015 of us with our kids, so one day they can remember those special times with their one and only mom.

Blessings,

Rachael

Interested in a Lifestyle Photo Session?

Contact me today to capture photos of you with your kids. Let me capture your story.

[email protected] or (423) 355-1488

DeMarco ~ Chattanooga Family & Child Photographer

Sat, 03 Jan 2015 17:30:27 GMT

It was a beautiful afternoon. The sun was shining, there was a light breeze in the air and the kids were laughing as they ran through the tall grass at the Chickamauga Battlefield. At this point they had been blessed with 2 boys and a girl and now #4 was on his way. I love how God sends surprise blessings such as this. This little guy was more loved than he could ever know and he wasn't even here yet. As I captured these images of Bob & Bethany and their kids, I could feel the love they had for each other. You could tell that no matter what they knew God was in control and their trust was found in Him. God had shown them over and over again that He will care for them and that my friends, is a great, great gift.

Interested in scheduling a photo session?

Contact Rae Ven Photography at [email protected] or at (423) 355-1488.

www.RaeVenPhoto.com

Zachary ~ 2015 Senior ~ Chattanooga Christian School ~ Chattanooga Family & Child Photographer

Sat, 03 Jan 2015 04:13:55 GMT

Meet Zach. He's a Senior at Chattanooga Christian HS. He loves sports and is the quarterback on the football team, but his true love is baseball. He's played baseball since he was a little kid. You would never know it by the photos, but the entire baseball field was all torn up and being resodded. So we had to be creative and work around all the ripped up grass and machinery to get these shots. Then we headed over to an old industrial building for the rest of his session. I had a blast capturing these photos of him. May God bless you, Zach, in the rest of your Senior Year!

Now scheduling photo sessions for 2016 Seniors.

Interested in scheduling a photo session with Rae Ven Photography?

Tracie - 90th Birthday ~ Chattanooga Family & Child Photographer

Sat, 20 Sep 2014 13:53:28 GMT

I had the pleasure of photographing Tracie and her family that gathered together for her 90th birthday! She looks amazing at 90 years old! I loved being able to capture photos that this family will treasure for generations to come. Tracie's 3 daughters, their spouses, their children and their grandchildren all gathered for these photos. What an amazing legacy God has given to this family.

"For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations." Psalm 100:5

Harper wanted to dress up as Thor for the photos, so instead of him wearing it during the family photos I promised he could have a little photo shoot on his own :) Then his Grandpa joined in on the fun. Love it!

Brittany - 2015 Senior - Zeeland West HS ~ Chattanooga Family & Child Photographer

Fri, 19 Sep 2014 18:35:19 GMT

I really love photographing High School Seniors. These sessions are always so fun because it usually ends up feeling like I'm hanging out with a friend and snapping a few pictures....and what could be better than that? Also, each Senior Session is unique in it's own way because every HS Senior has different tastes and fashion ideas that bring out their own personality. This is what I strive to portray with every photo session - a person's unique personality and show who they are as an individual.

This session was located in NW Indiana in the historic downtown Crown Point and also at the Will County Fairgrounds. My cousin, Brittany, is gorgeous as ever and had some awesome outfits! I still can't get over her polka dot high heels...just lovely!

Check out this 2015 Senior's photos!

Cropping & What It's All About ~ Rae Ven Photography

Sat, 06 Sep 2014 19:20:21 GMT

All Crops Are Not Created Equal. What does this mean? The best way to who you this, is to show you visually what this means. When choosing what size you want to print your photo, each size is different. Choosing different size prints for images can also change their aspect rations. The dimensions of the frame can make a big difference to the composition of an image (such as how and where it’s cropped if needed). This visual guide helps show the same image cropped to different aspect rations.

The aspect ratio templates are to show cropping and composition of the listed sizes, not the scale (size) in relation to the other sizes prints on the page. See the examples below to see what I mean.

4x6, 6x9, 8x12, 10x15, 12x18, 16x24

5x7, 2.5x3.5

8x10, 4x5, 16x20

20x24

5x5, 8x8, 10x10, 12x12, 20x20

11x14

Here is another way to show the 4x6, 5x7, and 8x10 aspect ratio comparison all on the same photo.

This visual should make it easier to determine the best print size when ordering your images. By definition, the aspect ratio of an images describes the proportional relationship between its width and height. Therefore, the appearance of your final images (as visually noted above) may vary slightly depending on the image size you choose. I shoot with a full frame camera so that the most images can proportionally fit inside any ration desired. This is the main reason I like to go over your order in person, to ensure that the proper crop to the original image has been selected to avoid losing vital parts of your images.

RVP offers an in person viewing session with every single photo session. This allows me to assist you in the ordering process, so in the end you get exactly what you are wanting. This is also helps make the process much easier for you, so you aren't overwhelmed by all the choices and options.

Interested in a photo session? Want to know more about what RVP offers?

Contact me today! [email protected] or 423-355-1488

Why choose RaeVen Photography?

Fri, 29 Aug 2014 16:54:36 GMT

There are so many photographers to choose from, why would you choose RaeVen Photography? What makes RVP (RaeVen Photography) so special? Why choose me to photograph your family?

First, because I'm passionate about what I do. I want to provide you with beautiful photos that you can display in your home and enjoy looking at for years to come. I do this by assisting you from beginning to end. By picking out a location for your desired backdrop, to picking out clothes that compliment your personality, to then meeting with you in person to help you choose your favorite images from your photo session.

I have a great time with my customers. I love capturing those smiles that make a person's eyes shine, to those natural laughs that truly show ones personality... That's what I want to capture. I don't want those posed, awkward smiles. From a baby's sweet grin, to a child's laughter as they chase bubbles, to a mom's warm smile as she lovingly looks at her child, that's what I want to capture for you. A wonderful memory of the stage of life you are in, of your family at this very moment in time that you will never get back and that so quickly slips away.

This is why I'm there helping you through the entire process, making sure that in the end you get what you wanted in the beginning...beautiful portraits that preserve this special moment in your life. Often we just go for the cheapest route, but this is usually not a wise decision when it comes to getting photographs taken. Are you going to take the time to get prints made from that cd or will it just sit and collect dust? And if you do get prints made, will those prints not fade over time, will they last for your generations to see years down the road? Do you know the quality you are getting? If you're going to invest in the time and clothes and money, then why not get something you can truly appreciate in the end.

After your photo session, I will then come to your home and show you all the products I offer and help you choose your favorite portraits that you want displayed and put into albums. These are products that will last. They will not fade and they are of true quality. You are not required to purchase anything at all. It is just a service I offer, with all of my photo sessions, to assist you in choosing what images you want from your photo session. My children love looking through their albums and at their pictures of when they were younger, as do I. It reminds me of a sweet moment in time, that we often forget because they grow up so quickly.

So contact me today. I'd love to take your family's portraits and give you the RVP Experience. I promise, you won't regret it and you will be pleased in the end to have these treasured portraits for your family to enjoy for your years to come.

Blessings,

Rachael Venema

Now Offering a Personalized Video Montage of your Portraits!

Wed, 20 Aug 2014 19:02:09 GMT

RaeVen Photography is now offering Video Montages showcasing your favorite photos from your photo session! It can be personalized with a quote and your own song choice. I will be creating one of these for every photo session! The best part is, you can purchase the video for you to keep as your own special keepsake. It's great to use at graduation parties, baby showers, wedding receptions, any special family gathering, as well as just to show off your photos to friends.

Here's a recent photo session so you can see what the hype is all about. These videos are fantastic!

Interested in booking a photo session?

Contact me today at [email protected]

or use the "Contact Me" page at the top of the website. I look forward to hearing from you!

Tana-2015 Senior-CCHS ~ Chattanooga Family & Child Photographer

Mon, 18 Aug 2014 11:16:30 GMT

While we visited family in NW Indiana I had the opportunity to do a bunch of photo sessions. Most of them were located in DeMotte, IN. A small town, where we used to live and where my husband used to teach. It's funny how such a small place can impact one's family. Some of my dearest friends live there and no matter how many times we go to visit family, we always end up in DeMotte at one time or another to see friends or our church family there. These people have a special place in our hearts.

Tana and her family went to church with us and she attends Covenant Christian High School where my husband used to teach. She is a Senior this year. We started off her session at a friend's house where we took shots by the grand piano. (Special thanks to Karen H. for letting us come into her home and take shots by and even on her piano. Karen, you're awesome...nuff said). We then headed to Bass Lake, IN where Tana's family owns a cabin on the lake. As we were driving there I kept looking into my rear view mirror and watching these dark clouds follow us. I was really worried we might get poured on. Thankfully the storm blew north of us and gave us some awesome skies for a backdrop. And just when we didn't think we'd get a sunset, the sun peaked beneath the clouds to give us some of the most gorgeous light I've ever seen. Check out a few pictures from her session below.

Mallory & Ashton's Wedding ~ Chattanooga Family & Child Photographer

Sun, 17 Aug 2014 02:47:50 GMT

I had the pleasure of second shooting Mallory & Ashton's Wedding with Lanie Coulter of Lanie Kay Photography.

It was a gorgeous Spring day and the wedding took place in a grassy field under a beautiful tree. Every detail was planned from the monogrammed shirts the bride & bridesmaids wore while getting ready, to chalk board signs with cute sayings, to the old fashioned car the bride rode up in. It made for a fun day of capturing all the little details of Mallory & Ashton's wedding. I had a great time hanging out with Lanie while capturing these special moments for this beautiful couple.

Sweet Set of Six ~ Chattanooga Family & Child Photographer

Sat, 16 Aug 2014 01:58:00 GMT

I had the pleasure of taking photos of my friend's six children. I have to say that these kids rocked their session and were great to work with. Even though they were hungry, it was hot, and there was a thunderstorm in the distance headed our way. None of that bothered them a bit. They were fun to hang out with and were curious about everything. And the youngest two boys...between the curly hair and the blue eyes, their parents better watch out. They are going to break some girls hearts some day.

We had a great time at Greenway Farms in Hixson, TN. I'd love to go back and explore more of the trails there. It's a beautiful place.

Check out this adorable family!

Henley ~ Chattanooga Family & Child Photographer

Sun, 22 Jun 2014 01:40:01 GMT

I love newborn sessions. There is nothing more special than a newborn baby. This stage of life goes by so quickly. I know with my own children the newborn stage went by in a blink. So to be able to preserve this time for the parents to enjoy and look back on, is such a blessing. To have a healthy baby is nothing short of a miracle. Henley is just that. A beautiful, healthy baby girl that is dearly loved by her sweet family. A beautiful miracle from above. "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above." James 1:17

Congratulations to Bri, Grant & Ethan. You have truly been blessed with a beautiful baby girl.

Gallery Stands ~ Chattanooga Family & Children Photographer

Fri, 30 May 2014 22:41:39 GMT

Check out the new product I am now offering to my customers!

~ GALLERY STANDS ~

It's basically a small canvas mounted on a built-in easel for display. You can also hang them on your wall with the hangers on the back.

Currently they only come in size 5.5" x 7.5", but it's the perfect size to display on a shelf in your child's room or give as a gift to grandparents. They would also be great to display on your desk at work.

It is a beautiful, metallic print that is laminated over a solid wood construction.

I can customize your Gallery Stand with any text you might like to add to it.

Check out this sample I ordered and received today! You can see how shiny the metallic is on it. So pretty! I love it!

Contact me today if you'd like to order one or several.

These would make a perfect gift for Father's Day which is coming up on June 15th!

Book a full 2014 session by June 15 and you can get one of these for free!!!

Contact me at rve[email protected] or through the "Contact Me" page.

Bri's Maternity Session ~ Chattanooga Family & Child Photographer

Tue, 27 May 2014 01:50:10 GMT

When Bri asked me to take her maternity photos, I was so excited. She said she wanted something more rustic and country and she got it. We went to Cloud Crest Farms in Rossville, GA. I know the owners and they are so friendly and so proud of their farm. It's beautiful and if I ever lived on a farm, I would want it to be just like this one. You pull up and there are animals roaming around...chickens, baby pigs, cats, a dog, etc. Cows are out in the pasture and boy do those cows have a gorgeous pasture to roam. The back area by the small lake, is just breath taking. With it's views of Lookout Mountain and the rolling hills and the beautiful color of the lake. Just gorgeous.

So Bri, Grant, and Ethan enjoyed walking around the farm while I took their pictures. Ethan loved the animals. Mrs. Johnson picked up a baby pig for him to pet. They are so cute! The neat thing about the farm is that it is all organic. They sell eggs and milk and you can buy their meat from Main Street Meats downtown Chattanooga. So if you're interested, check out their website.

I had a great time getting to know this sweet family. Baby Henley was actually born two days ago as I write this. (I'm a bit behind in my blogging...oops). She is one blessed baby girl. I can't wait to meet her soon.

So here are the pictures! Enjoy!

Interested in booking a family session? Email me at [email protected]!

Adorable Brothers & Advice From a Mom ~ Chattanooga Family & Child Photographer

Sun, 20 Apr 2014 02:52:43 GMT

I recently had a fun photo session, at Point Park on Lookout Mountain, with these two adorable brothers, Samuel & Benjamin. They are fun, active and full of life. I got quite the workout snapping shots of them. I loved watching their joy for life. These boys are simply adorable.

One of the reasons I did this photo session was to promote Autism Awareness. Samuel has been diagnosed with autism and this past year or so has been an adjustment for his parents in figuring out what is the best route to take in helping him. I asked his mom to share some advice to parents who might find themselves in a similar situation. I hope what she has to say here helps educate others about what parents go through, what parents need to look out for, what steps to take when you think your child might have autism, and how we need places like the Chattanooga Autism Center to help those with autism and to help the parents in deciding which direction to turn. I'm sure it's overwhelming trying to decide what is best for your child when there are so many options out there and you don't have a clue where to start. Hopefully this will be a bit of encouragement to another parent that just isn't sure where to turn or what to do.

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Advice from a Mom of a Child with Autism:

"If your gut tells you something is just not right with your child's development, look into having you child evaluated, even if your family, friends, pediatrician tells you not to worry, "it's just a phase, he will grow out of it."

Early intervention is key to having the best outcome for your child, so don't wait!

Make sure your pediatrician screens your child for autism using the m-chat at your 18 month check up.

Be aware of your options, the state offers early intervention services to children, birth to age two, who have delayed speech and other developmental delays, a diagnosis of autism is not required to start getting your child important and needed interventions at no cost to you. Once your child turns three, services are handled by the school system.

Be aware of untested methods, there are so many therapies and the latest cure-all remedy. So do your research and invest in the therapies that have a sound basis for giving your child the best outcome.

Parenting is stressful, try to find balance for yourself and your family!
Get connected to good support groups such as family, friends, your church, and the autism groups in your community.

Supporting local groups such as the Chattanooga Autism Center with your time and donations helps build autism awareness and provides much needed resources to families in the community.

Your child is a blessing from God, aim for the best life possible for your child by setting short and long term goals. Remember while working towards those goals, it's a marathon not a sprint!

Pray and ask others to pray for you and your family. While it's true, you are your child's greatest advocate on this earth. Your child's Heavenly Father is far greater!

The steadfast love of The Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning, great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23"

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To support this cause I am donating 10% of any 2014 sessions,

that are booked in April, to the Chattanooga Autism Center.

Also, I am giving a $75 print credit to any family with a child that has special needs.

Please join me in supporting this cause. Thank you.

Spring Mini Sessions ~ NW Georgia Children & Family Photographer

Mon, 24 Mar 2014 01:40:32 GMT

I just have to share the pictures of this adorable family with you all. April booked a mini session...actually she booked 2 back to back since she wanted a lot of different shots, including a newborn and 30 min would no have been enough time for all of it. So I recommended that she book 2 mini sessions to make an hour session. And this family rocked their session! The weather turned out beautiful and the kids did great. I love it when the sun shines just right and you get that nice, soft light. It's my favorite. Then get a newborn to sleep, outside for his session. Add in his big sisters that just adore him.... and you've got a lot of cuteness going on. I could have sat and taken pictures of them all day. Just beautiful. I apologize now if I choose too many pictures for this post...but I just can't help myself. This family is just too cute!

Love these photos? Do you want pictures like this of your kids or family?

Interested in booking a photo session? Contact me at [email protected]!

Tent Mini Sessions, Saturday, March 15 - Chattanooga Children & Family Photographer

Sun, 09 Mar 2014 03:54:48 GMT

Check out these images from today's Mini Session.

Book your session today! Contact me at [email protected] or 423-355-1488.

Photo Albums - Chattanooga Family & Children Photographer

Wed, 05 Mar 2014 21:39:17 GMT

Next up in my product line are Press Printed Photo Albums. These are gorgeous! Guess what is even more amazing! All of these products are printed on Mowhawk Superfine Paper and are FSC-certified, archival papers made with wind power. What does that mean for you? That you are getting press printed products that are printed on leading digital paper that was developed so they would last over time. That means that your children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren will be able to look at your photos and the quality will last.

Plus these albums are printed and made using wind power. Meaning, by ordering from this company we are helping the environment. How awesome is that?!?

Once you see these albums in person, you will see the quality and why I am so excited about them.

Here are some sample pictures for you to check them out!

Interested in purchasing this product? Contact me today!

Book your Photo Session and at your viewing session you can see all the products I have to offer.

Ask me for my Pricing Guide which shows you all the products that are available to you.

Contact me at rv[email protected]. I look forward to hearing from you!

Vintage Spring Mini-Session Event - Chattanooga Family & Child Photographer

Tue, 04 Mar 2014 02:26:56 GMT

I'm so excited about this event! I'm holding a Vintage Spring Mini-Session Event on Saturday, March 15th here in Flintstone, GA. This event is perfect for getting pictures of your child in their Easter outfits or for a fun "Mommy & Me" type session where you as the mom can get your picture taken with your kids. Those pictures don't happen often and they are ones you will treasure forever. The event will begin at 4:00pm and every session will last between 20-30 minutes. The total cost is $95 and you will receive at least 10 digital full res. files in an online gallery where you can download the images or order prints.

I'm going to pose my kids this Saturday and get examples for you all to see. But to give you an idea of the set up there will be a white flowy tent held up by branches, along with a quilt on the ground and several vintage type props from suitcases to wooden crates to a cute wooden chair, and lots more fun things. I can't wait to see it all come together.

If by chance, the weather doesn't cooperate we will reschedule for another date as soon as possible.

I can't wait to for you all to see the beautiful pictures from this event.

Sign-up today before all the spots are taken!

Contact me at [email protected] or call me at 423.355.1488.

**Update**

I worked on the tent today. Please excuse the cell phone pic. But the set up is coming along nicely! (Don't worry It will be even prettier when it's all set up with the props, etc.)

Brag Book - NW Georgia Family & Child Photographer

Mon, 03 Mar 2014 01:48:28 GMT

I am going to do a series of blog posts showcasing the different products that I offer. I've researched and looked at tons of different products and it's been hard choosing from all of the many choices that are out there. But I came across this company's site and fell in love with their products. I am able to offer beautiful products at affordable prices and that is exactly what I was looking for.

So to start things off I thought I'd show you the Brag Book. It's such a cute little book that can easily be put in your purse or bag so you can carry it around to show your friends your pictures. It also works well as a display piece since you can set it up like an accordion file on a shelf or your desk. Inside are 8 pictures, 4 on each side. The books comes in 9 different colors and when closed up it's nicely tied with a ribbon.

This is the perfect gift for grandparents since they can use it to show off pictures of their grandchildren. Parents! It's good for you too. We all love showing people pictures of our kids. Why not get your recent pictures printed in a beautiful book so you can proudly show them off to your friends and family.

So here is the cute and beautifully crafted Brag Book:

Are you interested in this product? Book a photo session today and you will get to choose from this and many other beautiful products that I have to offer you. Contact me at [email protected] or by phone at 423.355.1488.

Sweet Baby Eloise! - Rossville, GA - NW Georgia Newborn Photographer

Fri, 17 Jan 2014 21:48:00 GMT

This sweet baby girl was just 7 days old when I took her photos. I adore this family and I've only recently gotten to know them. They moved here the week of Thanksgiving and I work with Clay at Chattanooga Valley Presbyterian Church here in Flintstone, GA. He is the new assistant pastor at CVPC. We are blessed to have them as apart of our community. Rhoda is gorgeous and a wonderful wife and mother. Their daughter, Violet, is such a sweet big sister. I think it's great how she loves her books, especially the Peter Rabbit ones. Those are some of my favorites too. Once we got Eloise to sleep we had lots of fun. It was especially nice that Rhoda has great taste in furniture and I could use some of her stuff as props. I could have loved on this little girl all day.

Want to book a Newborn or Family Session? Email me at [email protected]!

Soon to be Big Brother! - Lansing, IL - Chattanooga Family & Child Photographer

Mon, 30 Dec 2013 21:48:00 GMT

I was born and raised just South of Chicago, IL. My family still lives there and my in-laws are just over the border in NW Indiana. When we were visiting our families this Christmas, my cousin asked if I would have time to take their family photos. She is expecting baby #2 and her little boy is so sweet. He is a normal 2 year old boy, full of action and fun. He especially liked the Lightening McQueen car that I had taken along for him to play with. And as most little boys do, he found a rock to play with. It was quite large and much to our surprise he suddenly tossed it into the air and it almost came crashing down on his head. Thankfully I quickly moved him out of the way and no one was injured. He reminds me a lot of my boys at that age. Full of curiosity and lots of action. Thankfully it ended up being a bit warmer that day and we could be outside for their photo session. If I remember correctly it was 40 degrees and by Monday it was down to 8 degrees. Brrrr! I definitely like our more mild winters in the South! We also enjoyed checking out the geese that had landed on the other side of the water. Enjoy checking out their photos!

Book your family session today! Email me at [email protected]

Fun family of Six! - Chattanooga, TN - Chattanooga Family & Child Photographer

Tue, 10 Dec 2013 20:39:00 GMT

3 boys and one sweet girl! That's what these parents have been blessed with. These friends are like family to me. We both moved to Chattanooga at the same time, except my family was from the North and this family was from the South. Our husbands work at Chattanooga Christian School. We ended up moving to the same neighborhood within a few weeks of each other. I'm so thankful God placed our families here at the same time and only 6 houses away from each other! We've been a huge help to each other since neither of us has family in the area and we have to rely on friends for help with our kids. We've swapped watching each other kids for several years now and our kids are like brothers and sisters. Mike is a football coach and health teacher. Paula is a momma/baby nurse. They are both from Alabama and are huge 'Bama fans. It's funny how different we are, yet how we are such good friends. I honestly wouldn't know what to do without them. I am so thankful God has placed friends like this in my life!

This last picture makes me laugh. AC is such a diva! I love it!

Book your family session now! Email me at [email protected]!

Sweet, Sweet Summertime - Ringgold, GA - Chattanooga Family & Child Photographer

Thu, 01 Aug 2013 19:24:00 GMT

First, I have to say how much I love this family. They have become great friends of mine and I am truly blessed to have them in my life. It was a joy to be able to take their family pictures. Daniela is just gorgeous and you can tell that Steve just adores her. Then their boys with their big brown eyes and cute faces...I just couldn't get enough of this family. It was so fun to run around and play with them. I love my job and capturing moments like these is exactly what I strive for. Check out this adorable family!

Book your family session now! Email me at [email protected]!