Hopes Creations Photography-Kalamazoo Michigan

Your Child's Session

2012-01-09T18:26:00.001-05:00

Some tips to keep in mind for your session with children

Your child is not likely to cooperate with your desires. They will not sit still and smile. Please don’t expect this of them. They won’t respond to “let’s just get this over with” and candy bribes don’t work as well as you think.
Do not get mad, yell, or raise your voice to your kids. I’m not here to tell you how to raise them. You can do whatever you like at home, but the moment you get angry with them, the session is pretty much over. For them, and for me. Fear does not inspire smiles.
I am a patient person. I rarely have more than one session a day and chances are I am not really on a time limit with your session. If your session fee is based on per hour, know that sessions rarely last more than an hour. Especially with kids. If we need to take a break so your kids can get a drink, snack or hug to make them feel better, I will not hold that against you.
When I talk times with you before your session I will likely mention times like “It should only take about an hour”. I’m not a psychiatrist. I don’t have a timer going. It’s just an estimate. There is no rush.
If you want to help me get your child’s attention, get behind me. Stand with your face right above my head and call them, sing, do what you gotta do. I don’t mind this at all. You are not in my way there. Do not stand three feet away and call them otherwise all their pictures are going to be of them looking off camera because I can’t compete with the sound of mom or dad’s voice.
Designate who will be the one to try to get the child’s attention and everyone else needs to be quiet. You can switch it up, but communicate with each other who will be the one to stand above my head.
There is nothing wrong with images of your child looking off camera. They tend to be the most natural looking, sweet images and I love them. I will surely get plenty of them looking at the camera so don’t mind me if I at some point I take a break from the “look at the camera and smile” mentality. I might take the child on a small walk or just let them play. If I do this. I will let you know. You are welcome to follow me at a distance if we walk, but don’t try to get their attention.
If we are taking a family picture and you are in the picture with your child, don’t try to get them to look at the camera. I promise you it won’t work. Just try to keep your attention focused on me and I will handle the kiddos. I also like to get natural images so either before or after the “look at the camera and smile” picture, I might ask you to act naturally. Talk, tickle, sing, focus on your child and forget that I am there.

I cordially invite you into the studio or on location for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Spectacular Rendezvous

2011-11-23T09:28:00.001-05:00

dress + water = gorgeous

2011-11-21T09:14:00.002-05:00

true Heros wear dog tags

2011-11-19T09:03:00.003-05:00

I cannot express my amazing gratitude to this family. Thank you for your service. Thank you for my freedom.

I had a lot of fun on this shoot. We did get forced into the house by some blood thirsty mosquitoes, but we got some fantastic results!

Heidi & Mal

2011-11-17T08:01:00.002-05:00

We could not have picked a more beautiful evening for images. The night was gorgeous and the location was amazing. I am so happy for the two of you! I can't wait for your wedding in May!

Engagement

2011-11-15T19:31:00.001-05:00

I had such a blast with Tracey and Wes wandering around the park and looking for the beautiful autumn backgrounds. It was fantastic to meet you both and I hope your wedding (in Grand Cayman... can we say jealous?) is as fabulous as the two of you!

Kalamazoo. Boudoir. Photography.

2011-10-13T11:10:00.000-04:00

Kaylee

2011-08-05T10:01:00.000-04:00

My Friend

2011-07-19T20:36:00.000-04:00

In my sophomore year of high school my mom let me (well, we had to jump through a lot of hoops as I recall, but she jumped through them all for me 'cuz she's awesome!) switch schools from Vicksburg High School in Vicksburg, MI to Mendon High School in Mendon, MI. I didn't have too many friends in Vicksburg and I was anxious for a fresh start.

A new beginning.

Though it ended up being kind of hard in Mendon too because I am hopelessly shy. I am STILL hopelessly shy though I work everyday to help myself out of my shyness.

I made many good friends in Mendon. Many more than I had made in Vicksburg, which was slightly sad due to there being about 80% less students in my graduating class at Mendon. Maybe that's why though.

One of my friends once I transferred was a girl named Dana. I didn't realize how much I really missed her (she moved away before we graduated) until facebook reunited us not long ago.

Last weekend Dana posted that her boys were gone to their dad's house and she needed something to do. I told her she could come over for a shoot so last Monday that is just what we did. We were at the studio for THREE hours talking, shooting, talking, talking, shooting and talking. It was a blast and was great to catch up with her!

Here is one of my most favorite images from the session. In fact, I think this is one of my most favorite images of all time. You're gorgeous girl! Just gorgeous!

Boudoir Shoot Sale

2011-06-25T06:43:00.001-04:00

Exclusive Email Only sale!

Email info@hopescreations.com for details about the session.

Also, there is a little contest happening over on the facebook fan page for a free session. Go check it out!
http://facebook.com/hopescreationsphotography

I cordially invite you into the studio or on location for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Kalamazoo Boudoir Photography

2011-06-16T07:47:00.006-04:00

Sexy, sensual, intimate boudoir photography in Kalamazoo Michigan
Email info@hopescreations.com for more information

I cordially invite you into the studio or on location for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Sexy Sneak Peek!

2011-06-14T18:30:00.000-04:00

What a fantastic session with a GORGEOUS model!

I cordially invite you into the studio or on location for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Sixty Five Years of Happiness

2011-06-12T11:20:00.007-04:00

I cordially invite you into the studio for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Beautiful Izabella

2011-06-10T23:21:00.011-04:00

I have known this little one's aunt and mommy for most of my life and theirs. Especially moms. I cannot tell you how adorable this little girl is. I just want to love her up.

And I love this image from the session as well.

I cordially invite you into the studio for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Beautiful Bridal Art Pt 2

2011-06-06T18:50:00.004-04:00

Jessica & Ross. How fun and gorgeous are these two? This was a fabulous shoot. I very much enjoyed myself.

I cordially invite you into the studio for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Military Maternity Baby Leanna

2011-06-04T11:19:00.007-04:00

Daddy is overseas. They are eagerly awaiting his return

I cordially invite you into the studio for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Amanda & Mark are awaiting baby Kristin

2011-06-02T11:18:00.011-04:00

This beautiful couple is expecting a beautiful baby girl.

I cordially invite you into the studio for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Senior Portraits & Referral Bonus

2011-06-01T00:00:00.005-04:00

Class of 2012

Don't wait to schedule your senior session! Many benefits for scheduling early!

Email me for your $50 gift certificate (expires on June 30th 2011). $25 gift certificates will be available for the month of July. The number of gift certificates is limited.

CASH referral bonus
If you refer someone to Hope's Creations Photography for their senior session you will recieve a $10 cash bonus for every person who books with us between June 1st 2011 and September 1st 2011. No limit to the referral bonuses. Bonuses will be available 48 hours after the person you refer completes their session.

I cordially invite you into the studio or on location for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Beautiful Bridal Art

2011-05-31T09:33:00.001-04:00

Beth has got to be the sweetest person on the planet. She was such a joy to work with.

I have to say that this first image is one of my all time favorites.

I cordially invite you into the studio for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Keelei

2011-05-14T11:09:00.001-04:00

It has been such a pleasure to work with Keelei over the last year. I first met her mom through a local natural families group several years ago and she hired me in August 2009 for some images of Keelei and her little brothers who are ADORABLE! Then last summer we did a "Sweet 16" shoot for her birthday. I'm glas she was part of the big photographer's shoot out that we did as well.

These are my favorites of Keelei from the shoot out! Can't wait to see you this evening for prom pictures!

I cordially invite you into the studio for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Rowan

2011-05-11T11:45:00.001-04:00

My favorites of Rowan from the local photographer's group shoot out. I didn't get to spend much time with Rowan on this occassion, but it's okay because we have prom minis later this month and I'm sure we will shoot together again.

The morning before this shoot I was looking at Richard Avedon's website and I really found this pose interesting so I thought I would try in on the shoot. I didn't get it exactly (and I wasn't trying to get it exactly. That would be copying.), but I think I came fairly close with this one.

I cordially invite you into the studio for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Cassidy

2011-05-10T11:08:00.001-04:00

My favorites of Cassidy from the local photographer's group shoot out.

I cordially invite you into the studio for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L.

2011-05-03T19:50:00.000-04:00

Rowan and her mom was kind enough to join me at a cool, new to me, location that I found. It was so cold this day. They were both great sports and we had a blast! I'm also super excited that I got to shoot her again late last month with 2 of her good friends and we will also do a shoot later this month for prom! I so love my amazing clients and friends!

I cordially invite you into the studio or on location for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Kalamazoo Lifestyle Photography

2011-04-21T12:00:00.022-04:00

Miss Lilly and I went shooting, just for fun.

I cordially invite you into the studio for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Rockstar Boudoir

2011-04-19T22:27:00.001-04:00

What an awesomely fun session this was! I *must* do more of these!

I cordially invite you into the studio for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Maternity Sneak Peeks

2011-04-05T21:35:00.001-04:00

A couple milestones that I'd love to share with you before I get into the sneak peeks. First, this is my 100th blog post! So happy to still be doing what I love! Second, as of this moment, Hope's Creations Photography on Facebook is ONE fan away from 400! I am so happy that you guys love what I do too!
EDIT: So happy to announce that a good friend from high school became my 400th fan! Yay!

Now, on to the good stuff... I had three shoots with two different gorgeous pregnant women last week. Here are a couple sneak peeks from those sessions.

The first session was with proud parents Amanda and Mark anxiously awaiting their adorable baby girl, Kristen.

My next session was actually done in two parts. March is so unpredictable in terms of the weather, but we wanted to make sure that we got Kira's session done before baby made her grand appearance. Kira loves water, but since it was March we decided to get some studio shots done, then, if baby was still snug, we'd do some outdoor ones on a nicer day. It all worked out perfectly.

Here is a peek from the studio session

And one from the outdoor session

I cordially invite you into the studio for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Sneak Peek From Today

2011-03-03T21:31:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I was browsing one of my younger past clients' recently posted images and in the images I found a gem. This girl is really beautiful. I love her look.

About a week later I drove by a building I have been wanting to shoot at, but I thought it was inaccessiable, but that day, we decided to drive out of our way to try and find and entrance, and we did! I was ecstatic and knew that the beautiful girl I found the week previous was going to be the perfect person to bring to this building. So, I friend requested her and her mom on facebook and messaged her mom about a shoot. Yay! She said "yes"!

So, even though today was really cold and I have yet to warm up, even though I have been home for hours, we went out and had an amazing shoot today!

Thank you both so much for braving the cold!

I cordially invite you into the studio for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Miss J Sneak Peek

2011-03-01T09:10:00.001-05:00

Miss J and I met back in December when she modeled at an even that I photographed. Saturday she came to the studio to do a little Tshirt boudoir session for me and we had a blast. She was sure to bring along her 4 pair of brand new shoes that she bought just for the occassion! Gotta love an excuse to shop for new shoes!

I cordially invite you into the studio for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a session.

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T07:55:00.003-05:00

A sweet deal for you. A sexy present for him!
Introducing DVD slideshows
A $100 Victoria Secret gift card giveaway
AND
A free boudoir shoot

My name is Amanda.
I am a boudoir photographer based in South West Michigan, specifically Kalamazoo.
Boudoir has been my specialty for about 2 years now and it's so hot! I haven't met a single person who has not been completely satisfied with their images!

For the next 5 days I will be scheduling DVD slideshow sessions for a very special price.

1 hour session
plus DVD slideshow for just
$125!

After those 5 days the price will go up to $225 so you don't want to miss this amazing offer! Just email me at info@hopescreations.com or call 269-381-4810 to schedule a consultation and session.

And... if you call or email by the end of the day TODAY, you can also choose 5 of your images and I will print 5 5x7s for you FREE delivered in a beautiful black box ready for presentation.

That's a 1 hour session, a custom DVD slideshow and 5 5x7 prints ready for presentation for only $125!

$100 Victoria Secret Gift Card
AND
a FREE Boudoir session

Every boudoir session participant from today, February, 14th 2011 until October 31st, 2011 will be entered into a drawing to win a $100 gift card to Victoria Secret and a FREE boudoir session with an 6x6 flush mount album included to show off the new goods to give as a Christmas present, Valentines present, or to keep to yourself, as you wish!

AND

If you refer someone else who has a session, you will get another entry in the giveaway. No limit on the number of entries per person!

AMAZING!!!
Email or Call today!

Amanda Horein
Hope's Creations Boudoir Photography
info@hopescreations.com
269-381-4810

I GUARANTEE that you will be completely satisfied with your session, DVD and images. If you aren't completely satisfied you will receive a full refund. No hard feelings.

*The Fine print*
Models will not be included in the contest, unless you are paying for your shoot.

If you'd like to receive email notice of our specials please let us know here

L.A.D-zigns

2011-02-08T10:43:00.005-05:00

Here is another hat that I got from the very talented Laurie at L.A.D-zigns modeled by the beautiful Baby L.

If you are interested in any member of your family, including yourself, being a model for Hope's Creations Photography please email info@hopescreations.com for more information

Fall portraits of my girls

2011-02-06T10:02:00.001-05:00

I, like most moms who entered the world of photography, began with and because of my children. These days, however, they aren't so keen on posing for me any more. I did take them out at the beginning of October for a photoshoot. I posted them to my facebook, but I forgot to blog my precious angels who are growing up way too fast!

I invite you and your family on a session. It can be in studio or on location. I love tailoring sessions to your family. Going where you like to be and capturing natural moments. For pricing visit http://hopescreations.com and call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com for an appointment.

Miss N Sneak Peek

2011-02-04T09:52:00.003-05:00

What a beautiful woman and amazing session. Thank you Miss N for being such a fabulous person and thank you for such a fabulous boudoir session, right here in Kalamazoo!

I cordially invite you into the studio for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

December Art Hop

2011-02-02T11:18:00.005-05:00

What a fun time with Liz from Seamless Body Art and four amazing models!

Please visit http://hopescreations.com for a full Body Painting Gallery

Six Months Old Already!

2011-02-01T11:04:00.000-05:00

I did a session for this little one when he was a newborn. I can't believe how big he has gotten! And I just love this family. They are amazing!

I invite you and your family on a session. It can be in studio or on location. I love tailoring sessions to your family. Going where you like to be and capturing natural moments. For pricing visit http://hopescreations.com and call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com for an appointment.

"My Fiance Will Be Home Soon" surprise!

2011-01-31T10:02:00.000-05:00

I got an email from a very excited woman who's husband was in the military and would be home soon. She wanted a present for him when he returned. She actually ended up being too excited to wait to show him! I love it! Mostly because that means I get to share with you sooner!

Christmas Boudoir Session

2011-01-29T12:00:00.000-05:00

I loved doing the Christmas Boudoir Sessions! I just love surprise gift shoots! We worked Miss K in last minute, but it was an awesome shoot with a gorgeous lady!

I cordially invite you into the studio for your own fabulous session! Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing information. Call 269-381-4810 or email info@hopescreations.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and session.

Perfect Valentines Day Present

2011-01-27T17:00:00.000-05:00

If you've already had a boudoir session and would like a card to present to your boyfriend/fiance/husband/significant other, please email me or message me! Only $10 for a 5x7 card. Several designs available.

There is also still time to get in a boudoir session before Valentine's Day. Visit http://hopescreations.com for pricing or email info@hopescreations.com about mini sessions.

Baby Model

2011-01-25T19:34:00.001-05:00

Oh, poor neglected blog. I'm so sorry that it has been so long. Really, I do love you!

My new main site has been redesigned. It is located at http://hopescreations.com. Please visit me and let me know what you think!

On December 5th I had Baby B in my studio modeling some of my newborn lovelies. These first two images feature a gorgeous wrap made by friend. And look at those gorgeous blue eyes!

This portrait features the handsome Baby B and his beautiful blues!

And finally, this portrait features a hat full of cuteness made by Laurie of L.A.D-zigns on Etsy and Facebook. I very much look forward to working with Laurie again!

Contest: Free Prints and A Drawing for a Free Session

2010-12-31T06:30:00.000-05:00

In honor of all the "new" things that come this time of year... new year... new hopes... new dreams... new website (which is up and running, though the prices aren't official until tomorrow!!!) :) I am having a contest.

I'm currently running a Valentine's Day Boudoir Mini Session special. You can see the special on my blog or on my FB fan page.

The contest is this...

Every person who posts a link to the Valentine's Day blog post on their Facebook wall will win a free print in their choice of sizes up to a 11x14. It can be of a past session, of a future session or one of my art prints.

Guidelines:
-Local (SW Michigan) entries only for this contest only

-Post the link to the blog post announcing the Valentine's Day Mini Shoots

-Message me, Email me at info@hopescreations.com, or write on my fan page wall letting me know that you made the post

-Include in your message which image you would like and what size you would like it to be. You may find my art prints in the Client tab of my new website if you enter the password "hopescreations"

-Limited to 1 image per household
-Contest ends January 21st, 2011 at midnight
-Prints will be ordered and available for pick up after everyone has told me which image and size they would like.

Bonus:

Every person that posts the link will also be entered into a drawing to win a free session with $25 print credit included! Drawing will take place on February 1st, 2011 and the session will need to be used before December 31st, 2011. Bonus entries are limited to one per account so if you have a Facebook fan page or other members of your family have pages you may post on their pages for extra entries. Just be sure to message me, email me or write on my wall and let me know that you did so, so that I may place your entry in the drawing.

Good luck to everyone!

Valentine's Day Boudoir

2010-12-29T08:51:00.001-05:00

2011 Valentine's Day Boudoir Mini Sessions
January 22nd and 23rd
$50 includes a 30 minute session with 1-2 outfits and 5-5x7 prints delivered ready for presentation to your significant other in a little black box
10 appointments available.

HopesCreations.com
Hope's Creations Fans unite

What's in store for 2011?

2010-12-02T07:48:00.002-05:00

Today is December 1st (well, it was when I started writing this yesterday)! That is so amazingly unbelievable!!! I can't believe 2010 is really coming to an end. It's been such an awesome year for me. I cannot express how much I deeply appreciate each and every client, potential client, friend, fan and every one of you who has helped me along in my journey. I am so grateful.

Some reminicing from the past couple years...

2009

In 2009 I had my first paying client. A boudoir, as it was. She was such a sweetheart and we have actually become friends since then. She even came back to visit me in March 2010 and I hope to see her many more times over the years.

That year I did a lot of practicing on my neices and nephews. Expecially this little guy.

and many of my still favorite images are from that year. I had a total of 6 shoots, not including my family, in 2009.

2010

In 2010 I will have jumped from six sessions to Thirty-nine sessions (I have 5 mini shoot left). Twenty-four of those sessions have been since September! Plus, I had a blast capturing images of my good friend Angela's wedding in September and helping her photograph a wedding in October. It has definitely been a blessed year. Thank you all.

At the end of the year, after Christmas presents are given, I will be sharing a picture review of 2010. Stay tuned for that!

2011
What can you expect in 2011?

Well, for starters, awesome images from SUPER fun sessions, of course. And a new website starting the first of the year. It looks so great too!

Prices will change a bit. My session fee will go up. The session fee pays for the photographer's time and talent to create a beautiful work of art, just for you. Print prices are changing as well, but for the better actually. This is why.

Last Christmas I bought a 16x20 portrait of my girls to hang on my wall. Before that the largest size I had was a 10x13 and I have those from my girls' baby pictures. Mostly we had 8x10s on the wall. I got this 16x20 and put it on my wall, and I have to tell you, I have never had a picture receive so many compliments before, PLUS, I just LOVE to look at it. My 8x10s actually seem pretty tiny against it.

I now have had a love affair with large prints and large artwork. I went into Hobby Lobby recently and looked at the 16x20 frames and thought... wow, this is little!

Since last year I have ordered several 16x20s to display in my studio, a 16x24 canvas of one of my favorite images of all time, and I made my husband , who is also an artist, draw me a 24x36 charcoal of Jack Sparrow AND I have asked him to paint a 20x30 of him as well. I love, love, love large prints. I also have plans in the works for a 16x20 metal print. I just have to decide which of my images to print. It's going to be gorgeous.

I want to make large, beautiful portraits affordable for you too. I'd love to see at least a 16x20 in every home! The smaller print prices are not really changing too much in price.

RIGHT NOW
Starting December 6th, I am taking the rest of the year off to take care of the editing and processing for current client Christmas presents. And to take time to enjoy the holiday season.

However, I'm still booking for the coming year. I've actually already started booking Valentines boudoir sessions. Any sessions booked before January first will receive this years prices on session fees and prints. That is good for any session booked for any time in 2011! You could even schedule next year's holiday pictures and receive this years prices. How cool is that?

Also, I will have a limited amount of sessions available every month. I put a limit on the number of sessions because I am also a homeschooling mom so I need lots of time to spend with my two amazing daughters who are very quickly becoming my best friends.

I am currently looking into doing as much business as I can here locally, to get more involved with the local grassroots movement. Over the next few weeks during my time off I am going to be seeking out a local printing lab and a few local artisans to make photobooks. I'm very excited about the direction of this step in my business!

Scheduling for Valentines Day Boudoir
If you missed out and giving your significant other boudoir images for Christmas (a great gift for one of those guys who has everything), be sure to schedule your Valentines boudoir session before it is too late. Valentine boudoir sessions need to be done by January 23rd.

Hope you all have an awesome Holiday Season!

Ooooh! La! La!

2010-11-19T18:02:00.000-05:00

Have I told you lately how much I LOVE LOVE LOVE boudoir sessions?
Hope's Creations is THE place to go in Kalamazoo and South West Michigan for your boudoir photography needs (or should we say, his boudoir photography needs)!

I'm a little behind in posting these, but they are just lovely and we had an amazingly great time laughing, listening to great music and finishing up just in time to miss a 'maintenance man' disaster!

Hope's Creations is now scheduling for Valentine's Day. Don't miss your chance to get in on an awesome gift for your significant other. For more information please email info@hopescreations.com. You can find investment information here.

You Can Paint My Body Anytime

2010-11-16T08:19:00.001-05:00

These are my favorites from last Thursday's awesome session. There were so many it was so hard to narrow down my favorites!

We did the shooting in a temporary studio in the Park Trades Center in downtown Kalamazoo on this particular day and I tell you... someday that will be MY studio. It's awesome! I can't wait.

Ahhh Christmas!

2010-11-15T09:02:00.001-05:00

Christmas always sneaks up on me so quickly! This year is no exception. Christmas images have to be taken by the end of November, but I am on the ball with that this year. I had mine done last Tuesday. Now will I order my Christmas cards in time to send them out? I guess only time will tell.

Here is my first Christmas session of the season for your viewing pleasure.

A. Boudoir-Sneak Peek

2010-11-15T08:56:00.001-05:00

Oh my gosh! I can't even tell you how much fun this shoot was. I could have kept shooting all night!

Here is a sneak peek!

Body Painting - Sneak Peek

2010-10-22T08:26:00.003-04:00

Wednesday afternoon I got a call from a local body painter. She started the conversation with, "We've got a bit of an odd situation" and that she did. She had been talking to a photographer about photographing some of her work. The photographer told her to get the models together and they'd do a shoot. So Liz of Seamless Body Art got together two body painters (herself and one other) plus 4 amazing models and then the photographer wouldn't return her messages, phone calls or texts. So, she wanted to know if I had space and if I would be willing to do a shoot... TOMORROW!

Ahhh! My studio space was currently being used as storage space because we are putting up drywall right now and because we are putting up drywall my house is trashed. When I told her all this she said "ah, we don't care." I told her I would have to call her back. I definitely needed time to process, but of course, I could not say no. What an awesome opportunity!

I gotta say... We had so much fun yesterday. Liz and Ryan spent 6 HOURS painting their models and the results were fabulous. Here is a sneak peek from that session.

Hale Family School Pictures

2010-10-10T06:51:00.001-04:00

This was such an amazing family to work with!

They chose these for their school pictures
For more information on school pictures please visit the following pages
Main School Photos Page
School Picture Time
(with special pricing available until December 5, 2010)

and the littlest one was being such a cute ham...

Boudoir Christmas Special

2010-10-01T13:05:00.001-04:00

Kalamazoo Boudoir Photography

These are by far my favorite sessions. I love to make everyone look and feel beautiful and sexy.

More information
Boudoir Investment

Wedding Sneak Peek

2010-09-24T12:17:00.001-04:00

Last Saturday I spent 13 hours photographing the most awesome wedding with the most awesome couple. It was so much fun!

Here is a sneak peek from that day

For more information on booking weddings, please visit Weddings

Miss Leah

2010-09-16T10:02:00.000-04:00

I had such a great time photographing this newborn and her precious family. They are all so adorable!

To understand your parents' love you must raise children yourself

2010-09-08T07:30:00.001-04:00

I had the opportunity (and great pleasure) to photograph my parents not too long ago. It was such a great experience and I thank them from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to do so.

Baby L-Newborn-Sneak Peek

2010-09-07T20:18:00.001-04:00

I had so much fun on this shoot. Baby L has the most adorable family with two awesome big sisters!

More Newborns
More babies
Investment

School Picture Time!

2010-08-31T08:19:00.002-04:00

School Photos

I am doing something a little different this school year. Email me at info@hopescreations.com or call 381-4810 for more information

$12/child or $50/family sitting fee
$10 disc fee (waived with a family sitting fee)
1 portrait of each child, approved in camera
image will be delivered on disc with a print release, printable up to 8x10, larger prints may be purchased from me if desired.

Please note that these photos will not necessarily be exactly like school photos. I am not going to just sit your child down, tell them to smile and pop a button on the camera. Please click on the photo below to see my flickr album with some examples of what your school pictures will be similar to.

Sneak peek from a newborn shoot

2010-08-25T20:58:00.000-04:00

I had a beautiful newborn to shoot this week. Of course, I might be biased as it was my nephew, but I don't think so!

and an outtake of big brother ROCKIN' the camera! Can we say "Future Photographer"???

I love my 300th fan!

2010-08-17T17:10:00.002-04:00

A couple of months ago I ran a contest on my Facebook fan page for my 300th fan. My 300th fan was a beautiful teen with an awesome smile that lived about 2 hours away from me. I asked her what she would choose for a prize and she asked for a family photo shoot. So after a busy, busy summer I finally met her family at a location half way in between.

What a lovely family. I had so much fun and just loved meeting everyone!

A couple of templates to share

2010-08-13T18:02:00.001-04:00

I scoured the web looking for simple templates to make collages. I wanted just basic layouts though. Not one will all the colors and brushes and designing predetermined. I *wanted* to use my creativity to come up with something exceptional made specifically for my client.

Unfortunately, I had a hard time finding much along those lines so I decided to make my own. And I figured that I couldn't be the only one out there like me so I wanted to offer them to others.

Here are a couple samples linked to my Etsy store.

eSession

2010-08-09T12:43:00.000-04:00

I shot this couple at the beginning of the year too. They are a blast to work with. We decided to do a second shoot to get some more images for a guest book.

Sweet 16

2010-08-07T08:16:00.001-04:00

What a gorgeous Sweet 16 session I had with this lovely lady! I'm going to post a few from the session here and then you can check them all out on my Facebook fan page!

eSession Sneak Peek

2010-07-27T23:17:00.000-04:00

This is my lucky couple. I photographed them the first day of this on a cold night in January (yes, first I said it was day, then I said night. It was night though.). I just knew it was going to be a great year. I mean, I was starting off on the right foot. And it has been a spectacular year for my photography. I love every moment.

We decided that we could possibly use a few more images for a possible guestbook, so we went out in search of sun flares. Unfortunately we weren't at the right place at the right time for flares, but we got some good ones anyway. Here is a sneak peek.

July Special

2010-07-07T12:07:00.002-04:00

Since America celebrated its independence this weekend Hope's Creations decided that the July special will be for those who fought and fight for that independence.

For the month of July we are offering free session fees for our soldiers and their families. Please email us at info@hopescreations.com for more information.

Sweet 16 Sneak Peek

2010-07-03T12:09:00.000-04:00

I've been super busy lately (which is a good thing). On Thursday evening I had the pleasure of shooting a Sweet 16! She is gorgeous and so photogenic! Here is a sneak peek from her shoot. There are a couple more up on my facebook page.

Brothers

2010-06-30T17:08:00.000-04:00

13 things I have learned this past year

2010-06-24T14:30:00.000-04:00

If you are interested, my June specials are hot... and almost over. Head here to check them out!

So, why 13?

I intended for this to be a 10 items list, but found when writing them out that I had a few more to add, plus I'm not superstitious. They are in no particular order.

Charge my camera battery and flash batteries the night before a shoot
Always remember the model release
Test equipment the night before to ensure it is in working order
Pack extra memory cards so that when you get to a clients house you don't have to turn around and go back home because you left your main card in your card reader at home
I love shooting people
It's all about the light. My life is now all about light. Every where I go, everything I do, I am always looking at light. The amount, the way it falls, hot spots, shadows… the list goes on.
Shooting at night in the middle of winter is very cold, but very fun! I didn't think it would work out because, well, "It's all about the light" and at night... well... no light, but it worked and it was a blast. We captured some great moments
A room that is lit up with light bouncing everywhere may not be the very best environment for a portrait.
Boudoir Photography is amazingly fun. I truly enjoy helping the women who may not be the most self confident of beings see that they really are truly beautiful. I love the confidence boost that it gives them. I also do enjoy the stories of their significant other's reactions to the photos as well.
Never compare myself to other photographers. Never consider another photographer my competition.
Keep studio clean all the time for last minute photo shoots and for ease of finding things when I need them.
How to press the shutter less and still get great photos, if not better than when I would shoot a lot and get few good ones.
Remember the model release! Wait, did I say that already? Yeah, well, it's really important!

What a handsome 10 day old!

2010-06-12T13:59:00.000-04:00

Mini Maternity

2010-06-01T11:44:00.001-04:00

Visit here to see my June Specials

This is a mini maternity session from the 28th

June Special

2010-05-31T21:16:00.004-04:00

For any session booked during the month of June, Hope's Creations is offering 1/2 price session fees and 10% off of all print orders, as well as 25% off all canvas and photo book orders.

This includes all portrait or senior sessions (in studio or on location)

For a prints price list please visit
http://hopescreations.blogspot.com/2008/07/pricing.html

Also, we are offering buy one large print (11x14 and up), get 1/2 off for all prints, including previous sessions.
For available prints you can browse my gallery

What a great start to an awesome summer!

May 28th-Lilly

2010-05-31T09:30:00.003-04:00

May 28th-Marti

2010-05-30T09:41:00.005-04:00

New Blue Backdrop

2010-05-16T19:12:00.004-04:00

I'm lovin' it!

Click for a larger version of this one

We have a winner... or two!

2010-05-05T08:12:00.001-04:00

The winners of Our First Giveaway are...

Linda Senyk

and

Tracey Vanderweide

They each get to choose one photo of mine to have printed onto a reusable shopping bag.

Congrats to the winners!

If, for some reason anyone would like to purchase a bag please email us at info@hopescreations.com by May 8th for more information. The bags will be $5 each to purchase.

Our First Giveaway

2010-04-27T12:00:00.005-04:00

Hope's Creations is proud to announce our very first giveaway!

We are giving away 2 free custom resusable shopping bags to two lucky fans. The winners (chosen via random.org) will be able to choose which photo of ours they would like on a reusable shopping bag.

This deal is open to anyone in the continental United States.

Contest begins today (April 27th, 2010) and ends Tuesday, May 4th 2010.

To Enter: You can enter up to two times per day everyday for the next week.

Ways to enter:

1. Subscribe to this blog

2. Follow us on Twitter

3. Become a facebook fan

4. Share this post on your twitter, facebook or myspace status

5. Blog about us or our contest (or both).

6. Comment on this post what your favorite photo of ours is
7. Send us a comment (it can be anything) on our facebook fan page.
8. Comment on any of our previous blogs.
9. Watch us on Deviant Art

Please leave 1 comment each day telling us which of the above things you have done and leave links so we can see.

If you are already a fan, let us know (by commenting) and you will be entered for that.

Fine Print: We will be checking your posts and blogs. These bags will not be delivered by Mother's Day. All winners will be chosen on May 5th, 2010 and announced via this blog, our twitter account and our facebook fanpage. Winners will need to have an image chosen by May 10th, 2010. There will be no fees or shipping costs for the winners, even if they are not local. All images are © Hope's Creations.

Boudoir shoot

2010-04-17T09:18:00.005-04:00

Interested in a boudoir shoot? Please email me for current specials! I am always looking for some good models to try out new ideas!

I had so much fun with this shoot. She decided to do these boudoir photos for her fiance as a wedding gift.

Images have been removed for privacy reasons.

Shooting today

2010-04-12T16:37:00.002-04:00

Boudoir Party

2010-04-10T20:09:00.001-04:00

On March 17th we had an awesome boudoir party with four lovely ladies.

Oh my gosh! Brothers

2010-03-24T07:18:00.002-04:00

I can't believe I forgot to post these. I did this shoot back at the beginning of February. Boys are very rambunctious!

Portraits

2010-03-04T07:44:00.008-05:00

A deal so amazing you'll never believe it!

2010-03-01T18:50:00.004-05:00

I am looking for 2 boudoir models to come into the studio this month (March) or I can visit your home, whichever you would prefer. Those models will receive a free session and a special gift. Email me for more information.

My daughters

2010-02-28T08:33:00.002-05:00

I took my beautiful (and growing up way too fast) daughters into the studio. Perfectly lovely creatures!

SALE!

2010-02-17T19:56:00.003-05:00

From now until February 28th I am offering 30% off my 16x20 prints (regular price $35, now only $24.50). So, now is the perfect time to get that print that you have been wanting.

Here are some of my prints available, but you can choose from any print on my website. Please visit http://choose2bgr8.deviantart.com for a full gallery of prints available and email me at info@hopescreations.com with any orders or questions.

Weddings

2010-02-16T08:07:00.003-05:00

Please email info@hopescreations.com for more information.

Please visit the wedding album located here for more images

Think Pink

2010-02-14T14:22:00.002-05:00

On February 11th I became an official Think Pink Photographer. Here is the Announcement.

I wanted to touch on the details of a Think Pink session with Hope's Creations Photography.

With us your Think Pink Session will include
No session fees, of course
15 free 4x6 prints
A CD of web resolution images for you to share on facebook or myspace
25% off your order of prints or other items (no purchase is necessary or required though)
and a donation made to Think Pink Photography

I am very excited to be able to be involved with this organization!

Think Pink Announcement

2010-02-12T08:17:00.006-05:00

Hope's Creations is excited to announce a partnership with Think Pink Photography.
__________
Think Pink Photography was founded in October 2007 to support individuals and their families who have been touched by breast cancer. They are a charitable organization that serves two main purposes – celebrating life and supporting the cause.
Through their professional photographer network, they are helping breast cancer patients to celebrate life with charitable photography sessions. Individuals may choose to document their fight against the disease before or during treatment, or prefer to capture their victory by scheduling a session within 12 months after treatment is completed. Photographers world-wide are now available to donate time and talent to celebrate life and support the cause. There is no cost or obligation to the breast cancer patient. Clients participating in a Think Pink Session will receive a complimentary photo session, as well as a set of 10 small prints from the session. They will also receive a discount on any additional portraits they wish to purchase, although there is absolutely no purchase required at any time.
To support the cause, Think Pink Photography has partnered with The Eric R. Beverly Family Foundation. All funds generated through donations and various fundraising efforts are paid directly to The Eric R. Beverly Family Foundation. As a 3-time breast cancer survivor, Danielle Beverly and her husband Eric joined together to form a foundation dedicated to promoting education, increasing awareness, and providing support and resources for families who have been touched by breast cancer.
Please subscribe to the Think Pink blog and tell your friends and family about Think Pink Photography. Awareness is everything and we can’t be successful without you.
I encourage you to view the Think Pink Photography website, make a donation, or hire a photographer that supports Think Pink Photography! If you hire me, mention Think Pink and I will make a personal donation to the organization. If you, or someone you know, would like to schedule a Think Pink session, please contact me for details.
I am very proud to be a network photographer with Think Pink Photography, and am anxious to get the word out about this amazing program. For more information, you can contact me, or you can visit the Think Pink Photography website at:
http://www.thinkpinkphotography.org

Felicijan Shoot

2010-02-09T09:54:00.006-05:00

First, I would like to share their St. Patrick's day card that I designed. If you click on the card it will take you to a larger version, that is easier to read.

This one is probably one of my personal favorites from the shoot

This next one is another personal favorite

And they did such a beautiful job painting their toes that morning so we had to capture this

Z&A Engagement Shoot

2010-01-09T17:33:00.006-05:00

What an exceptionally fun shoot! Though I was nervous about shooting outside, in the dark, on a cold winter night. I believe they turned out very nicely.

One Page Calendars

2010-01-01T09:01:00.006-05:00

Photo courtesy of MMs Boudoir shoot

Boudoir Gallery

Claude & Family

2009-12-14T12:40:00.007-05:00

and just for fun, grandpa had to stick his tongue out

Winter Wonderland

2009-12-06T22:21:00.005-05:00

Probably my favorite self-portrait of all time

Christmas Portraits

2009-11-21T17:33:00.004-05:00

Christmas portraits are great gifts! If you book a sitting before December 10th, I will give you half off your sitting fee so come on in and pay us a visit!

Email info@hopescreations.com for more info

Here is our 2009 Christmas card

"School" Photos

2009-11-15T16:08:00.009-05:00

With the tough economy everyone is pinching pennies. School pictures are outrageous in price and tend to be poor quality as well (how many of us have had to go back, or send our kids back for re-takes).

I provide an alternate option that costs less and is much better in quality.
Please email me at info@hopescreations.com for more information.
A la carte and package pricing located here

Fall 2009

2009-10-28T10:22:00.005-04:00

Prints available
Prices
Please email info@hopescreations.com for ordering information

JB Shoot 8/2009

2009-09-17T16:02:00.006-04:00

RJK III Shoot

2009-09-01T21:45:00.006-04:00

Summer 2009

2009-09-01T09:52:00.005-04:00

We decided to take two months (July and August) to really reconnect as a family so we had turned the internet off for that time. It is now back on and I wish to share some photos from this summer with you.

Purchasing Prints

2009-06-15T09:53:00.011-04:00

All pricing information has moved to my site.

If you are on a device that does not have flash player, please email me for more information at info@hopescreations.com and I will email you a complete price list. My a la carte prices start at $50/hour and my package pricing starts at $160 with a $75 print credit.

Boudoir packages can be purchased a la carte or packages start at $210

I offer albums, mounts, wraps, metals, cards, prints and other items for sale.

Nature

2009-05-26T09:28:00.007-04:00

Prints available on any of these photos
Print prices located here
Please contact info@hopescreations.com for more information.

March 2009 Shoot In The Country

2009-03-31T13:04:00.006-04:00

On Saturday, March 14 my best friend (26 1/2 years now, we have been best friends and I am only 28) and I went shooting on our old "stomping grounds".

It was fun times. We even got pulled over by the cops (all two of them :) , it's a tiny town) for going too slow and he made the comment that he had to "check and make sure we weren't terrorists", so that joke is never going to go away...

So, this is me. My best friend took this picture of me with my camera.

And here are the rest of the photos. Prints available. Please visit my Purchasing Prints page for more details

And my three favorites from the bunch

Print SOLD! Email info@hopescreations.com about purchasing a print.

I also got tons of cool stock from this shoot which is located on my Deviant Art Stock account.

http://2bgr8stock.deviantart.com

MM Boudoir

2009-02-21T07:40:00.007-05:00

Design

2009-02-08T09:56:00.010-05:00

Logos

Business Cards

Watermark examples

Other Graphics

Collages

Invitations

Holiday Cards

Family Portraits

2009-02-07T11:32:00.009-05:00

Individual Shoots
Karen
Baker

Jabari

2009-01-25T06:52:00.004-05:00

At Birth

2 weeks

5 weeks

2 months

3 months

J with big brother L

6 months

Hopes Creations Photography-Kalamazoo Michigan

Your Child's Session

Spectacular Rendezvous

dress + water = gorgeous

true Heros wear dog tags

Heidi & Mal

Engagement

Kalamazoo. Boudoir. Photography.

Kaylee

My Friend

Boudoir Shoot Sale

Kalamazoo Boudoir Photography

Sexy Sneak Peek!

Sixty Five Years of Happiness

Beautiful Izabella

Beautiful Bridal Art Pt 2

Military Maternity Baby Leanna

Amanda & Mark are awaiting baby Kristin

Senior Portraits & Referral Bonus

Beautiful Bridal Art

Keelei

Rowan

Cassidy

B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L.

Kalamazoo Lifestyle Photography

Rockstar Boudoir

Maternity Sneak Peeks

Sneak Peek From Today

Miss J Sneak Peek

Happy Valentine's Day

L.A.D-zigns

Fall portraits of my girls

Miss N Sneak Peek

December Art Hop

Six Months Old Already!

"My Fiance Will Be Home Soon" surprise!

Christmas Boudoir Session

Perfect Valentines Day Present

Baby Model

Contest: Free Prints and A Drawing for a Free Session

Valentine's Day Boudoir

2011 Valentine's Day Boudoir Mini SessionsJanuary 22nd and 23rd$50 includes a 30 minute session with 1-2 outfits and 5-5x7 prints delivered ready for presentation to your significant other in a little black box10 appointments available.

What's in store for 2011?

Ooooh! La! La!

You Can Paint My Body Anytime

Ahhh Christmas!

A. Boudoir-Sneak Peek

Body Painting - Sneak Peek

Hale Family School Pictures

Boudoir Christmas Special

Wedding Sneak Peek

Miss Leah

To understand your parents' love you must raise children yourself

Baby L-Newborn-Sneak Peek

School Picture Time!

Sneak peek from a newborn shoot

I love my 300th fan!

A couple of templates to share

eSession

Sweet 16

eSession Sneak Peek

July Special

Sweet 16 Sneak Peek

Brothers

13 things I have learned this past year

What a handsome 10 day old!

Mini Maternity

June Special

May 28th-Lilly

May 28th-Marti

New Blue Backdrop

We have a winner... or two!

Our First Giveaway

Boudoir shoot

Shooting today

Boudoir Party

Oh my gosh! Brothers

Portraits

A deal so amazing you'll never believe it!

My daughters

2011 Valentine's Day Boudoir Mini Sessions
January 22nd and 23rd
$50 includes a 30 minute session with 1-2 outfits and 5-5x7 prints delivered ready for presentation to your significant other in a little black box
10 appointments available.