Diane's View

NEW BLOG SITE... I've moved!

2009-10-26T18:22:00.003-04:00

Well, I didn't really move, I mean from my house... but I did move my BLOG location to a new site.

So from now on, you can check out all the latest shoots and posts at my new site at:

http://dianeschafer.com/dianesview

It is a real slick site set up through WordPress and also ProPhoto.

Check me out and see who and what I Blog next at 'Diane's View.

Krista and Adam's Sneak Peek video

2009-10-22T11:49:00.005-04:00

Congratulations to Krista and Adam... two beautiful people inside and out who celebrated their wedding on October 17th. I had the honor to document their amazing wedding at St. David's Catholic church and the reception at the tropical paradise at the Hyatt Regency bonaventure Hotel.

My second photographer, Eileen did a great job of capturing Adam and all the guys, while I was with Krista and the girls.

Here is a video with a few of the images from their special day. Enjoy, Diane

HOLIDAY MINI-SESSION SPECIAL

2009-10-10T13:04:00.007-04:00

HOLIDAY MINI-SESSION SPECIAL

only $84.80 (includes tax)

Includes a 20-minute mini-session in the studio with Diane Schafer Photography.

Includes 24- custom designed 5x7 photo cards, 2-sides with photos, design and text.

CLICK HERE FOR A LINK to a gallery of sample designed Holiday Cards

CALL NOW to book your session in the studio at Diane Schafer Photography!
954-806-1818

ONLY Available through November 14th.

SAVE over $100.00, my HOLIDAY GIFT TO YOU!

A Stormy Day At Sea

2009-10-10T00:46:00.001-04:00

A short video of our exciting boat ride with Brian and Kerri when a storm decided to cut our fun short.

Family session in Wilmington North Carolina

2009-10-01T14:13:00.002-04:00

I had the pleasure of photographing my son, Brian and his wife, Kerri's, extended family while I was in Wilmington to also photograph a wedding. We went to this picturesque park that was a beautiful location for a family portrait session. Kerri's sister, Kristi and her husband, Chris, just had their first baby, Cameron, so they were excited to capture their first family portrait. So the grandparents Wiegands also joined us for the shoot.

Kylan's One year Birthday

2009-10-01T14:01:00.003-04:00

The Wheelers had a maternity shoot with me a year ago, and now we had the opportunity to do a family shoot at the park as Kylan is now turning one year old. Amazing how fast time flies!! We got a few shots off before the threatening skies and rain came, but will shoot again soon when Kylan can get some feature shots. Erika was a 'super woman' for the shoot because she had just completed a triathalon that morning and was still looking amazing for the portrait session that afternoon. Congrats Erika on finishing so strong in your race.

Andy and Kandy's Wedding

2009-09-21T23:37:00.007-04:00

Meet Kandy and Andy.... what a beautiful and fun couple.

I had the pleasure and FUN photographing Andy and Kandy's wedding at Fort Fisher in Carolina Beach, North Carolina. They are a terrific couple with a wonderful sense of humor and hearts of gold. I wish them all the best as they begin their future together.

60 Seconds of CRAZY.....Crazy Cam Video

2009-09-15T18:48:00.003-04:00

60 SECONDS OF CRAZY CREATIVE FUN ON VIDEO!!!

You can have a "Crazy Cam" at your wedding Reception or next event... your guests will love it and you will have fun images to remember them by. Creativity is the theme with a touch of crazy and a dash of fun!

The 'CRAZY CAM" is a professional mini-studio set-up with lights and props for your guests to 'get their crazy on' ... have fun and be creative. This is usually done during a wedding reception to capture your guests or at a party event.... wait till you see how they all try to out-do the next person. "Have you had your crazy today?"

A video for Sheena and Mike Plus ONE

2009-09-10T21:34:00.001-04:00

Click the play to view the video of Sheena and Mike's maternity session... they are a beautiful couple and will be fantastic parents.

Sheena and Mike plus ONE

2009-09-10T15:41:00.003-04:00

How exciting to see Sheena and Mike again after photographing their wedding back in 2007.. .this time it was for a BELLY TO BABY session. They are such a beautiful couple inside and out and I was honored to photograph and document their maternity session and in a few months, I'll be photographing the new family of three as they celebrate the birth of their baby boy. Sheena was a trooper and lasted through a long session as we played with lighting, backdrops and outfit changes. Thanks for such a fun and rewarding session! My best to you both.

Brittany Rose's photo shoot

2009-08-24T20:48:00.002-04:00

I had the pleasure to photograph Brittany Rose for her new website and company SinglesMingle.net. She had a lot of great ideas , including to dress the part of a cupid! I wish her all the best and success in her new business as the Professional Matchmaker for her company Singles Mingle. Anyone single out there???? Check her out, she might help you find your soul mate.

Brittany Rose launches "SINGLES MINGLE"

2009-08-24T14:50:00.002-04:00

I had the pleasure to photograph Brittany Rose for her new business "Singles Mingle". Singles Mingle is a new Matchmaking and events company. Brittany will be planning exciting events at exclusive venues to help you meet that special someone! You can also use Brittany Rose, a professional Matchmaker to guide you to your soul mate!

We had such a blast during her photo shoot as she showed the so many sides to her personality... the business woman, the sultry Matchmaker and the adorable cupid angel. You can check out her new company at www.SinglesMingle.net

Enjoy the slide show of some of her images from the shoot.

The Patterson Family

2009-08-15T18:25:00.002-04:00

"Saturday In The Park" .... you'd think it was the 4th of July".

Well it was August and it was Saturday and we were at the Park... Peace Mound Park in Weston. I love this park for its varied landscapes and location settings. I had the privilege to photograph The Patterson family... who in just one week are moving to Switzerland. I wish them all the best. They are a beautiful family, inside and out, and even though we got caught in a raining downpour.. the rain couldn't dampen their smiles.

Thanks Pattersons for a fabulous shoot... amazing what you can do even when the rains come pouring down.

Olivia's VIDEO

2009-08-10T17:19:00.001-04:00

The song is "LEGACY" and the family is Olivia and Kathleen and David... click the video to play.

Olivia and her parents

2009-08-10T16:03:00.007-04:00

I had the pleasure and honor of photographing Olivia and her parents, Kathleen and David as they played together in my studio. They participated in my Summer Special Mini-Session in the Studio. Olivia is just a precious doll and so loved by her parents as they read, tickled, blew bubbles and danced for the camera. I had a blast watching them interact.

Cherub Playtime

2009-08-06T11:03:00.003-04:00

I had a blast with my grand-daughter, Madison, when we had a Fantasy Studio Session. She got to play dress-up in adorable tutu's and angel wings... and she was so good during the whole shoot, indulging me as I got to play with her in the studio.

Mini-Session AUGUST Studio special

2009-08-03T23:56:00.003-04:00

I had the pleasure of kicking off the August Summer Mini-Session in my studio with the Espinosa family. It was great to see the family again, as I had a photo session with them 2 years ago when they were only a family of 3... and now they have 4 in the family.... Francesca, Felipe, Luca and Annalise. We had a fun time as we played in the studio.

CLICK ON THE VIDEO TO SEE MORE OF THEIR PHOTO SESSION.

How Many Things are we missing Day to Day?

2009-08-03T23:42:00.004-04:00

Something to Think About.....

Washington DC Metro Station on a cold January morning in 2007. He played six Bach pieces for about 45 minutes. During that time approximately 2 thousand people went through the station, most of them on their way to work. After 3 minutes a middle aged man noticed there was a musician playing. He slowed his pace and stopped for a few seconds and then hurried to meet his schedule.

4 minutes later:

the violinist received his first dollar: a woman threw the money in the till and, without stopping, continued to walk.

6 minutes:

A young man leaned against the wall to listen to him, then looked at his watch and started to walk again.

10 minutes:

A 3 year old boy stopped but his mother tugged him along hurriedly, as the kid stopped to look at the violinist. Finally the mother pushed hard and the child continued to walk, turning his head all the time. This action was repeated by several other children. Every parent, without exception, forced them to move on.

45 minutes:

The musician played. Only 6 people stopped and stayed for a while. About 20 gave him money but continued to walk their normal pace.
He collected $32.

1 hour:

He finished playing and silence took over. No one noticed. No one applauded, nor was there any recognition.

No one knew this but the violinist was Joshua Bell, one of the best musicians in the world. He played one of the most intricate pieces ever written, with a violin worth $3.5 million dollars. Two days before Joshua Bell sold out a theater in Boston where the seats averaged $100.

This is a real story. Joshua Bell playing incognito in the metro station was organized by the Washington Post as part of a social experiment about perception, taste and people's priorities. The questions raised: in a common place environment at an inappropriate hour, do we perceive beauty? Do we stop to appreciate it? Do we recognize talent in an unexpected context?

One possible conclusion reached from this experiment could be:

If we do not have a moment to stop and listen to one of the best musicians in the world playing some of the finest music ever written, with one of the most beautiful instruments ....

How many other things are we missing?

Life is short!
Forgive quickly! Kiss slowly!
Love truly! Laugh uncontrollably!
And remember you are Loved....Always!!

“Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be bent out of shape.” -unknown

I was emailed this article and as a musician and photographer it touched me. Photography got me to "open" my eyes and 'see' the smaller things in life and appreciate that which is always before us, but maybe we never "see" it.

Yes! Life is short... enjoy it and pass on the love. Diane

Why Hire a Professional Photographer?

2009-07-29T10:34:00.002-04:00

Why Hire a Professional Photographer and not your "Uncle Bob"??

I found this interesting article comparing a hobbyist photographer shooting side by side with a professional photographer for a friends wedding. I guess you could say pictures are worth a 1000 words....so just check out the article and see for yourself. Wedding photography is NOT something you want to skimp on when working out your wedding budget... after all, your wedding pictures will be all you have left to reflect on the memories of your most important day.

SEATTLE BRIDE MAGAZINE ARTICLE:

PHOTOGRAPHY
By Cody Ellerd

Photography by Cody Ellerd (left-hand photos) and John & Joseph Photography (right-hand photos)

I consider myself a pretty good amateur photographer. I’ve taken a couple of classes, I have a nice Nikon D60 and, as a professional travel writer, I’ve even had a few of my shots make magazine covers and pages. If you didn’t budget for a professional photographer at your wedding, I’m the friend you might call to take pictures.

So when Seattle Bride sent me to the late-winter wedding of Vicky Wu and Chris Nicoll to shoot alongside Joey Hong of John & Joseph Photography, a local award-winning team of two brothers who have been shooting commercial, fashion and wedding photography for more than eight years, I was curious to see how well I could keep up with a seasoned pro.

From the moment we started shooting in the bride and groom’s hotel room, I was floored. “Vicky, look down at your shoulders…put a gentle smile on your lips. Chris, look straight at my lens—no, smile. Relax your forehead.” Joey’s attention to such minute detail went way beyond “Say cheese” and brought out the couple’s absolute best. He knew how to manipulate the room’s light and reflective surfaces in ways I never would have dreamed of, transforming what I thought was an unremarkable setting into a photo studio with endless possibilities.

Joey commanded family portraits with a gentle control and confidence that only comes from years of experience. He had the right flashes and steadiness of hand for getting great dance photos, while I snapped shot after blurry shot in a mild panic that my precious memory space was quickly dwindling. I was giving it my best, and in a few instances it showed: an inside shot of Vicky simply glowing in the window’s natural light; a close-up kiss in the sunlight where the couple wore the sweetest smiles. But when those spontaneous moments that are here and gone in the blink of an eye happened, Joey caught them with lightning speed, while I lost many of them to improper focus or exposure.

I now disagree more than ever with the digital-age adage that “now everyone is a photographer.” Tens of thousands of dollars in education, equipment and experience separate me from the pros. Professional photographers, like any other artists or business owners, need to spend money to make money. When you hire them, you’re helping them pay for their investments.

“Photography is a very equipment-intensive business, and the equipment is expensive,” says Scott Squire of NonFiction Weddings, a Seattle-based photography team with 10 years of experience. To each wedding, he and his partner bring six or seven top-drawer lenses, a handful of strobes, three camera bodies, one backup and innumerable accessories. (In contrast, if my equipment had failed, my backup would have been my camera phone.)

Staying on top of new technology in the digital age is its own challenge, one that takes a professional commitment and expense. “The rate of change [in digital media] can be stupefying,” laughs longtime Seattle-based wedding photographer Sharlane Chase. She keeps up with the flow of information at annual weeklong workshops and seminars, and it shows in her final product.

On a side note, like all of you reading this magazine, I also happen to be planning my own wedding. My fiancé and I are on a tight budget and had planned to take a gamble and hire an amateur photographer friend. Now? We’re determined to find a way to get a pro.

Vicky and Chris would have been pretty disappointed if I had been their only photographer. If anyone ever does ask me to take pictures at their wedding, I’ll be happy to show up with my Nikon, and I may even take the best disposable-camera shots of the whole night. I just hope someone like Joey is there, too.

“This was such a cute moment, totally unscripted,” Ellerd remembers. “They bumped fists and it was clear it was a little habit of theirs, one that conveyed their friendship. Joey was right there to catch it while I was fumbling with my focus ring.”

“This image is so painfully inferior,” says our rogue photographer Cody Ellerd about her image. “My angle is bland while Joey’s is creative. His is crisp and perfectly exposed, while mine is washed out and grainy. Joey knew exactly how to take advantage of the sense of motion created by this cool backdrop.”

“The couple was getting a little photo fatigued,” Ellerd says, “but Joey turned it into a beautiful and intimate shot. I thought there was enough light, but without using a flash and spoiling the cool light bouncing off the building behind them, I couldn’t get my hand quite steady enough.”

For this “exit shot,” the clarity and color of Joey’s shot versus Ellerd’s is evident. “Notice the white car in front of Chris and Vicky,” Ellerd says. “Joey magically made it disappear—I’m not even gonna try.”

COMPLETE ARTICLE CAN BE SEEN HERE

Sunsets in Naples

2009-07-26T09:25:00.005-04:00

Dean and I took a long weekend vacation to Naples, Fl for some R&R and NO time schedule. I captured some cool sunsets while we were there.

"Bow-dacious" Madison

2009-07-06T15:45:00.005-04:00

It's hard to believe that Madison is almost 6 months old already!! I just thought this lil pink bow was so cute along with her new pierced ear-rings. I did this quick little video of our photo shoot.

Studio Mini-Session in August

2009-07-02T22:59:00.004-04:00

DIANE SCHAFER PHOTOGRAPHY

Beat the Heat and Look COOL at YOUR Portrait Session!!! SUMMER SAVINGS!!

Join me for an amazing fast-paced, high-quality Studio Mini-session for 30 minutes ...book anytime during the month of AUGUST.

A fantastic way to receive professional and artistic portraits at a great savings during this Mini-Session Summer Special.

Call NOW to book your date and time for your Mini-Session and SAVE $$. Offer good for up to 4 persons in a family. Add $10.00 per person over 4 people per session.

954-806-1818

$79.50 (includes tax) to book session , WHICH INCLUDES THE 30 MINUTE STUDIO SESSION, AN 8X10 PRINT, ON-LINE GALLERY WITH UP TO 10 PROOFS.... BIG SAVINGS!!

Call now to reserve your session... this offer is only good for August, 2009.

Diane Schafer Photography
www.dianeschafer.com

Music Tech Studios ROCK CAMP

2009-07-01T19:48:00.005-04:00

What a fab time with the rockers at Music Tech Studios summer Rock Camp. After Practicing for one week.. these guys had an amazing Rock Concert at the end of the week. Here are some of the shots taken during rehearsal and at the concert.

TYE Studios Behind the Scenes in Key West

2009-06-06T17:59:00.015-04:00

Andre Rowe getting his light setting just right ... amazing photographer.

Key West Photo Excursion with TYE Studios

I had the most amazing photography experience on a tropical Island a.k.a. Key West, with 4 high energy and gorgeous models sponsored by TYE Studios and hosted by Donna Peplin and Andre Rowe.... From sunrise to sunset we never stopped shooting, learning, experiencing, and having a blast while we did it all. TYE Studios lives up to their name when they let us "SHOOT THROUGH OUR EYES", as each photographer found their own unique personal style and angle as we shot 4 models for 2 days on the beaches, ocean, forts and old towne streets of Key West. Having the opportunity to use TYE's high end pro lighting equipment on the beach and in the ocean brought our images up to a high quality level. I highly recommend this excursion to photographers of all levels. Andre Rowe and Donna Peplin were there to guide and help (and they did all the 'grunt' work of setting up the heavy duty lighting equipment) and yet gave us "free reign' to shoot at will and set the models up for each of our shots. You sure can't beat the price anywhere for the amount of shoot time, beautiful models, and fun times we all had for 2 days... including enjoying "Margarita-ville" by night.

Thanks Donna and Andre and TYE Studios for a fabulous experience from dawn to dusk and beyond.... it was a photographers/model paradise... Thanks, Diane

Meet Sarah... one of our 4 models for the 2 day shoot. She had some great moves.

There were soooooo many locations to shoot... in such a small area of Key West.

Meet Jessica... she has killer eyes and was so helpful with different ideas..

Sarah used some of her ballet moves for her shots.

Meet Jessie, a sweetheart with amazing blue eyes.

6:00am for our sunrise shoot..

Meet Mindi who was so bubbly and a doll to shoot.

Notice the sign, " Slippery when wet".... yup, I can vouch for that as I slipped when I handed a model my camera and my camera took a dive into the Atlantic ocean. Man I wanted that shot from the water soooooo bad.

Donna Peplin fixing one of our lights used on the beach shoot.

Andre had us all wading out to the middle of the channel to get some 'in the water' shots.

Thanks everyone for such a marvelous experience with all the models and photographers who were involved with the TYE Studios Key West shoot... what a BLAST!!!

Key West Shoot with TYE Studios

2009-06-04T00:01:00.003-04:00

enjoy this video of 4 gorgeous models, 5 photographers, Andre and Donna from TYE Studios and a view from Key West.

Memorial Day and Family Time

2009-05-29T15:21:00.004-04:00

Great Grandma checking out the fishing skills of her great-grandson, Colin.

Dean showing his grandson how to install a chair-rail ... working hard on Memorial Day.

Grandma reading a story to Colin

It was great to spend the Memorial Day Weekend with family

Madison, my grand-daughter is 4 months and I just love all her little parts.

I love taking time to photograph my family in-between all the client shoots. It is so important to document your family time together. Have a super summer with your family.

Video of Sasha at Vizcaya

2009-05-15T00:34:00.001-04:00

Enjoy this short video of Sasha during her Quince Photo session.

Sasha's Quince Formal at Vizcaya Gardens

2009-05-14T23:34:00.007-04:00

Meet Sasha, a beautiful 15 year old, whom I had the pleasure of photographing at Vizcaya Gardens in Miami. Her beauty was matched by the Mediterranean gardens as we spent the afternoon capturing all the amazing architecture and views of the Villa. Sasha was amazing in front of the camera... she was so natural and easy to photograph. She never complained about the 90 degree weather as we shot in the FULL blazing sun. Enjoy a small selection of her images.

Her white gown had layers and layers of sheer fabric that billowed like clouds.... gorgeous.

Sasha also wore a pretty black and white dress for the afternoon.

I loved this shot as my lens peeked through the grating as she was fixing her hair.

This was Sasha's choice for a shot. She looked like Juliet waiting for her Romeo.

Next, she was Cinderella at her own ball, waiting for Prince Charming.

And as she hurried back to her carriage, she lost her silver slipper. :-)

It was a beautiful day, and Sasha made it even more beautiful!! Thanks.

A Sneak Peek VIDEO of Catherine and Eddie's Wedding

2009-04-28T20:48:00.001-04:00

Enjoy this sneak peek of Catherine and Eddie's Wedding.

Catherine and Eddie's Wedding

2009-04-28T18:40:00.010-04:00

CONGRATULATIONS CATHERINE AND EDDIE!!

I had the honor to photograph the beautiful wedding of Catherine and Eddie at the Hyatt Regency Bonaventure Resort in Weston. The weather was perfect for the outdoor spa-like garden wedding. The guests enjoyed an intimate reception in the "Society Lounge" at the Hyatt. Catherine looked beautiful in her wedding gown that was color coordinated with Eddie's sharp air force uniform. I wish them all the happiness as they begin their life together.

The adorable flower girl assisting the bride with her shoes.

The Bride and Groom's first look at each other before the ceremony, as they spent alone time in the beautiful and lush gardens behind the Red Door Spa.

Eddie was so handsome in his air force uniform.

Sydnne's 15th Birthday

2009-04-16T00:23:00.001-04:00

What a fun party and Horse Show....Sydnne did a terrific job in the Show and won lots of ribbons on her special BD. click on the video.

Horse Show Birthday Party for Sydnne

2009-04-15T22:17:00.005-04:00

Happy Birthday to Sydnne and congratulations on all her winning Ribbons at the Horse Show. Sydnne looked so smooth as she went through the paces during the show. She has a loving and supportive family and everyone had a blast at her celebration and party.

Catherine and Eddie at Morikami Gardens

2009-02-28T17:44:00.001-05:00

Click on the video to view a beautiful day with Catherine and Eddie at Morikami Gardens for their engagement session. I just love this place, it is so serene and beautiful.

Catherine and Eddie's Engagement Session

2009-02-28T15:10:00.007-05:00

Meet Catherine and Eddie. We had a beautiful day at the Morikami Japanese Gardens as we strolled through the gorgeous manicured gardens for their Engagement Session. The weather was so beautiful, the gardens were full of tourists and visitors. It was a fun challenge to capture the couple as if they had the whole place to themselves. I also used my off-camera 'strobist' flash set up on a light stand since we had to fight the bright 3:00 sun. It worked great even though Eddie was recruited a few times to lug the light stand around when I was on the other side of the bridges. We all had a great time and they are a wonderful couple anxiously awaiting their wedding day on April 25th at the beautiful Bonaventure Hyatt Resort and Spa in Weston.

The "SWEETHEART" wedding of Bonnie and Steve

2009-02-21T19:39:00.010-05:00

Bonnie and Steve were married on Valentines Day!! What a romantic day to capture special moments of their wedding. They both are a beautiful and loving couple who made the day both fun and adventurous as their guests had a wild time in the new "Crazy Cam" booth at the reception. I had the honor and pleasure of capturing all their magical moments along with my second photographer, Eileen Stephens. The wedding ceremony was held under a picturesque gazebo near the golf course of the Jacaranda Club, and the reception was held inside in the ballroom.

I think Steve would prefer to take a 'swim' on his honeymoon.

Jacaranda Country club had a beautiful sunset setting for their ceremony.

Steve getting his "groove on"....

whoa... yes they can also 'catch air'....

All the guests and bridal party had a blast getting their "crazy on" in the "Crazy Cam" photo booth at the reception.

GET YOUR CRAZY ON !!??!!

2009-02-17T18:58:00.001-05:00

People get crazy at wedding receptions... why not capture those free spirits in a "CREATIVE CRAZY CAM" booth? I opened the first "Crazy Cam" booth at Steve and Bonnie's wedding this Valentines Day. What a blast... we even had 'wedding crashers' jump in the booth and join the CRAZINESS.

Grandparents Celebrated!

2009-02-13T01:03:00.004-05:00

I volunteered my photographic services at a Grandparents Day celebration at the Weston Christian Academy school. It is wonderful to see how much the kids appreciated their grandparents and spent the day sharing their love for them. I set up a studio at the school and enjoyed capturing all the hugs and smiles. It was fun to hear how each child appreciated their grandparents... it seems their favorite thing is when grandma's bake cookies. Pass on the love......

A NEW SCHAFER HAS ARRIVED

2009-01-15T23:34:00.006-05:00

Meet MADISON STAR SCHAFER... our new grand-daughter.

These are pictures from Madison 's first day.

She was born January 14, 2009 at 7 lbs, 7 oz at 19 inches long. She is a BEAUTIFUL baby girl with rosy cheeks, gray-blue eyes, and a fluff of brown hair. We are so excited to get to know her even more. The parents and brother are all doing great and getting use to the 'lack of sleep', even though Madison is sleeping great already. Being a grand parent is the BEST!!!

Family Fun in the Park

2008-12-30T00:30:00.004-05:00

I had the pleasure to photograph this BEAUTIFUL family at Peace Mound Park in Weston. They are all visiting from Canada and spent the holidays with their sister and family. They were awesome to photograph and such a fun spirit. Below is a fun little video of our day.

Our FAMILY wishes YOUR family a very MERRY CHRISTMAS

2008-12-21T21:47:00.011-05:00

Diane And Dean

The Schafer family would like to wish everyone a very merry Christmas as we celebrate our blessings of 2008.

Brian and Kerri, Wilmington, NC

In memory of their daughter Meghan Elizabeth.

Thanksgiving dinner... at Brian and Kerri's.... their first feast.

Brian and Kerri's new boat... the Stingray... cruisin' on the Intercoastal of Wrightsville Beach.

Chris, Susie and Colin playing at our park.

Maternity session with the family... Madison is due Jan. 14th.

We hope you have a wonderful NEW YEAR in 2009.
Diane and Dean

Stephanie is Sweet 16 on Christmas

2008-12-17T00:21:00.006-05:00

What a wonderful Christmas miracle on Christmas morning.... and also for Stephanie's parents. Stephanie was born on Christmas day 16 years ago. She chose to have a formal portrait session for her Sweet 16 birthday gift... and what a beauty she is. Stephanie made it fun ... she was a natural in front of the camera.

We even turned the studio lights around and did some shots around my grand piano.

Congratulations Stephanie on your 16th.. YOU are a doll and your fun personality just shines.

Colleen and Luie's 40th Anniversary

2008-12-12T02:16:00.006-05:00

I had the pleasure of photographing the 40th Anniversary celebration for Colleen and Luie Brennan. The event featured a memory filled praise service held in a candle light filled chapel at the gorgeous Signature Grand. Over 200 guests sang and prayed for their blessings on Colleen and Luie. It was a very moving ceremony.

Next, the loving couple was escorted by their son and friends to the ballroom for a full course dinner and speeches by many of their friends and pastors, including the pastor that married them 40 years ago. They are certainly loved by many many family and friends.

I wish them much future happiness together as they continue sharing life together.

Merry Christmas to Everyone!

2008-12-04T11:12:00.001-05:00

I wish for everyone many holiday Blessings! May your New Year be a bright one!

Rosemary and Andres' Wedding

2008-11-17T00:00:00.004-05:00

I had the pleasure of photographing Rosemary and Andres' wedding. They had a beautiful wedding and a gorgeous sunset reception on the lake at her mother and fathers home. This is just the beginning of the many images I am in the middle of processing. Congratulations to Rosemary and Andres and may you have a wonderful future together.

Cruisin' Through Canada

2008-10-29T00:34:00.002-04:00

I loved this church on the hill in Sydney, Nova Scotia... the country was so beautiful.

Dean enjoying the sunset as we relaxed on our private balcony..... what a life!

Quebec.... a window dresser setting the scene for the fall. We ate lunch at this restaurant.

We timed the fall foliage just perfectly... with beautiful weather... we don't see trees like this in Florida...

Quebec

Leaf in Prince Edward Island.... lots of maple leaves everywhere.

a beautiful wooden path behind the Anne of Green Gables home.

this shot was taken from our balcony as we sailed away to our next port....

Anne of Green Gables woods

Prince Edward Island

Halifax and Peggy's Cove

Peggy's Cove

The video is a selection of My top 100 images from our cruise through Canada. We joined 40 other PPA photographers for a wonderful tour of the fall colors.

HOLIDAY STUDIO MINI-SESSION

2008-10-23T13:13:00.003-04:00

Tis the Season to share memories with family and friends... Book a special Mini-Session in my studio for amazing SAVINGS.

INCLUDES SESSION AND CUSTOM DESIGNED 24- 5X7 2-SIDED PHOTO CARDS WITH ENVELOPES

WHEN: Offer good until November 15, 2008. You must call to book a sitting and reserve your spot. Sundays not available.

COST: $75.00, includes sitting fee, and includes 24 5x7 Custom Designed Holiday cards with photos and text on front and back with envelopes. Folded 4-sided cards are available for an extra fee. The $75.00 must be payed in advance via paypal, cash, or check at the time of booking to reserve your spot.

SAVINGS: You save over $100.00 from the regular fee of a session and photo cards.

DETAILS: The Mini-Session is for 20 minutes in my studio, with at least 10 edited proofs to choose from in your own private gallery on my website. Offer good for up to 4 persons in a session. $5.00 per person extra for over 4 people in session. The $75.00 fee is non-refundable if appointment is cancelled and not rescheduled.

CALL NOW AND BOOK YOUR SESSION: 954-806-1818

NEW Baby Collection Plan

2008-10-21T23:17:00.008-04:00

Seems to be the season for babies. So, I have designed a Baby Collection to capture those special moments. I was recently on a photographers cruise to Canada to capture the gorgeous, lush, fall foliage (those pictures will be posted soon) ... and somehow baby photography was a topic of discussion :-)

Wiggly toes, giggly faces, cuddly bodies...babies constant changes. From the sleeping cherub, to holding their head up proud, to sitting and standing all on their own. Capture these moments and preserve them in Fine Art Photography.

If you are pregnant, or know someone who is, or about to be..... (hmmmm how would you know that?) or has a newborn.... pass this information on to them.

BELLY TO BABY COLLECTION: Includes 2 sessions: Maternity session, preferrably in the third trimester, and a Newborn session, baby up to 5 weeks old.

BABY'S FIRST YEAR COLLECTION: Includes 3 sessions: Baby at 4, 8 and 12 months. Includes one 5x7 baby portrait from each session, and one 10x20 storyboard at 12 months with an image from each session in the design.

If you would like more information, contact Diane Schafer at diane@dianeschafer.com

Sagesse Designs

2008-09-12T15:17:00.004-04:00

I had the honor of shooting a session with the owners of Sagesse Designs to create images for their greeting card business.

This explains their inspirational concept for a beautiful card design which is found on their website:

"Sagesse", Pronounced "SAH - jess", which means inner wisdom in French.

Sagesse designs™ offers a greeting card and gift concept. Featuring original art work by cancer survivors, candid words of compassion and support and a unique CD to promote wellbeing and ongoing relaxation.

Have you ever needed a greeting card that offers just the right message?

As you explore our site, we hope you find something that moves you, something that you feel can help someone you care about with whatever they're experiencing, joyful or challenging. "

Please browse their website and check out their beautiful card designs... Sagesse Designs website link.

Solutions in Music with Willie Stewart

2008-09-08T23:15:00.003-04:00

Enjoy this fast paced video of Willie Stewart conducting a team building, stress relief percussion workshop. Willie was the drummer for the group "Third World" and has performed with Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson and Bob Marley. He has a passion for what he does and is a dynamic leader at the percussion seminars. He relieves stress as he leads groups of up to 100 people to build team spirit and at the same time participate in an awesome hands-on percussion experience. His seminars are both FUN and educational as he takes you through a history of the importance of drumming. If your workplace or organization would like to schedule a percussion workshop, you can contact Willie Stewart at williamstewart2005@comcast.net or phone 754-366-53220.

I had a blast photographing this workshop for the Woman in Business association.

Click the play arrow and enjoy a small sampling of this exhilarating experience.

Renee Rocked the Studio

2008-09-05T22:21:00.001-04:00

A video of Renee Glamin' in the studio.

RENEE in the STUDIO

2008-09-05T18:30:00.006-04:00

Meet Renee. She is not only my hairdresser, but a dear friend as we have shared a lot over the last 12 years as she does magic with my hair. She has a beautiful family, and it is always my pleasure to have the chance to photograph Renee and her family. This time Renee did a studio shoot to start a new venture in modeling and to create her first comp card.

She made it easy to capture her beauty both inside and out.

Video of Alexis Bat Mitzvah

2008-09-02T23:11:00.001-04:00

A very special day in the life of Alexis...her Bat Mitzvah celebration.

Alexis's Bat Mitzvah

2008-08-31T23:55:00.006-04:00

I had the honor and pleasure of capturing the special moments at the preparation for Alexis' Bat Mitzvah and her super fun celebration at the beautiful Hyatt Bonaventure Resort and Spa in Weston. It was a very special day, as they also had the baby naming of Alexis' new sister. Many of their family and friends all came out for her special day and celebration. Congratulations Alexis, your family is very proud of you.

The new baby sister of Alexis had a baby naming ceremony just before her Bat Mitzvah.

The party celebration was held at the beautiful Hyatt Bonaventure Resort.

Great-Grandma was so proud of Alexis...

Mother and daughter had a blast as they ended the party with their 'surfing' skateboard routine.... at the stroke of midnight they were still ready to party-on.

Family fun in the Studio

2008-08-31T21:48:00.004-04:00

Barbara, the mom, is our administrative assistant at our music store, Music Tech Studios ( my other passion) , so it was great to get the whole family together at my photography studio to share some family time.

They wanted a family session before their daughter leaves to head out West to stay a while with her aunt. We even gathered the family around the piano because both Megan and Gary are musically talented.

NEW WEB SITE FOR MY WEDDING POSTS

2008-08-08T23:39:00.004-04:00

I'm excited to share the news of my NEW Wedding Website. Now, when you log into www.dianeschafer.com, you will be directed to a 'splash' page with 4 different areas to visit. You can enter my NEW WEDDING site, or my PORTRAITURE site, this BLOG, or my CLIENTS site to view your personal client gallery.

The new site will not be ready for a few days.... so check it out by next week and let me know what you think. This new menu allows visitors to spend time in the specific area they are interested in, whether it be images of weddings, or family portraiture.

I hope you find the new site easy to navigate and enjoy the new images as well. It was fun to put together .... and of course many hours of midnight ummm oil, keyboard strokes, to get it ready.

I hope everyone is having a fabulous summer and enjoying their family with some cool quality together time.

More images coming up soon!!
All my best, Diane

Baby and Me Make FOUR

2008-07-26T14:04:00.006-04:00

I had a fabulous family session with Erika, Jonathan and Cade. They are expecting their second child any day now... so we also had a maternity session filled with precious moments.

Cade even brought along his hysterical "Groucho" glasses, which is when he decided to sit still and pose.

I loved the way Cade wanted to be a part of all the shots and made it a fun challenge when we wanted to shoot Erika and Jonathan by themselves. He reminds me so much of my own grandson, Colin..... always on the go.

Many tender moments were shared by all.... Cade was actually hiding behind this sofa and peeked out right after I took the shot.... I saved it for their gallery.. so cute.

After The Rain

2008-07-22T08:48:00.009-04:00

Rain Rain Go Away.... It had been raining for days, we even had to postpone our shoot on the beach. Finally, we had our day, and it was a beautiful day for shooting on the beach with overcast skies and a relaxed evening with the Bute family enjoying the sand and surf. They are a beautiful family who made the shoot a fun adventure. Thanks for braving the rain drops and making it a special day. Your girls are gorgeous and your 'formal' attire made it an elegant shoot.

I loved the girls romping along the shore with the scarves.... what fun!

Dad had some fun with the girls. He can still make them giggle.

Mom snuggling with her girls. Tender moments shared are beautiful.

ROB HEYMAN WORKSHOP ...DAY 2

2008-06-18T02:12:00.004-04:00

On our second day of shooting, Rob Heyman had us 'finding the light' in between alley ways and store fronts at Dania Beach and US 1 and then along the pier at Dania Beach. Even with overcast days, we got off some great shots... the clouds and gray skies actually made it easy, well sort of. But we definitely learned a lot and had a great time doing it.

ROB HEYMAN WORKSHOP SUCCESS

2008-06-16T15:28:00.004-04:00

We all had a wonderful educational experience as Rob Heyman shared his expertise on photography, lighting and the business. Rob Heyman is a triple master photographer from Australia and he and his wife, Shirlene, were guests at my home as I hosted his Rob Heyman 2-Day Workshop. We had 2 days of photo sessions in the afternoon as we watched the master at work finding the 'light' in a dreary, and rain filled afternoon.

Here is the first day of our photo shoot with the Zapata family...what a beautiful family, they made it fun and easy as we walked the streets of Las Olas.

CONGRATS TO ALL GRADS 2008!!

2008-06-09T18:20:00.004-04:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL GRADUATES FROM KINDERGARTEN TO COLLEGE, CLASS OF 2008!

It's that time of year for pomp and circumstance and moving the tassels to the other side of the caps. I can remember my boys kindergarten graduation in their adorable cap and gown and of course the day they graduated from college... whew, WE DID IT!!!

Dean and I recently were invited to walk with the Graduating Seniors at the University of Miami School of Music as Alumna Marshalls... what an honor and what memories it all brought back to put on those cap and gowns again, but this time we got to sit on the stage and watch the class of 2008 receive their diplomas.

I had the pleasure of photographing a kindergarten graduation for Vanessa and Isabella... how adorable they were as they sang and danced during a patriotic graduation ceremony and show.

Destination Vacation Portraits in South Florida

2008-06-03T23:04:00.004-04:00

Planning a vacation in South Florida?? What a FANTASTIC time to capture your holiday with a family portrait session at the beach with our gorgeous Atlantic ocean as your backdrop. I have been receiving so many requests from out-of-towners who are vacationing in south Florida to book a family portrait session...what a perfect time to capture your special memories. Own a beautiful fine art gallery wrap canvas or wall portrait print to share the memories of your vacation in beautiful south Florida.

Destination Portraits at South Beach for Austria Family

2008-05-19T23:24:00.005-04:00

Austrian family at South Beach...what a GORGEOUS DAY!

Meet the Strasser Family. What a pleasure it was to have a family photo shoot with this fun, loving family from Austria. I was honored that they selected me to capture some special memories as they vacationed on South Beach in Miami. We had a delightful day playing in the trees, sand and surf of Ocean Drive and the Atlantic Ocean. I have always wanted to do destination photography, but this was in reverse, where I got to be the photographer for their vacation...maybe if I ever get a chance to travel to Austria, I can photograph the Strasser's in their homeland. Have a safe trip back.

South Beach has the coolest and funkiest lifeguard houses... They let us play in one.

They had fun climbing along this rock wall above the sand.

Their eyes were as blue as the ocean and sky.... so handsome.

Verena had a fun idea to climb up on this pink box in the middle of the beach.... her gorgeous long flowing hair looked beautiful as she played with her son.

It was a beautiful day full of laughter and smiles... thank you for a wonderful shoot.

Dedication to all MOMS

2008-05-11T13:47:00.003-04:00

Mom's Day! May 11, 2008

Mom's are the best... and EVERY DAY is mother's day...

Being a full-time mother is one of the highest salaried jobs... since the payment is pure love. ~Mildred B. Vermont

Mother love is the fuel that enables a normal human being to do the impossible. ~Marion C. Garretty, quoted in A Little Spoonful of Chicken Soup for the Mother's Soul

Biology is the least of what makes someone a mother. ~Oprah Winfrey

My mom is a neverending song in my heart of comfort, happiness, and being. I may sometimes forget the words but I always remember the tune. ~Graycie Harmon

The photo is of my Dad and Mom, 'Desh' and Pat. My parents were in a serious car accident on April 1st, (yes April fools Day..ughh), they had to be airlifted to Jackson Memorial trauma center and after diagnosis, Dad had a fractured rib and mom had injured her lower spine/ popped a vertebrae. We all count our blessings, because, seeing how mom drove head-on into a tree and flipped the car, they both are now doing fine. We moved my parents into our home temporarily, so we can take care of them.... which yes, created a major lifestyle change for me and my husband. We are now the 'parents', and my parents are now the 'kids'. hmmmmm :-)

So, on this Mother's Day, I especially want to say "love ya, Mom" and I'm glad you have 'nine lives' and are healing back to your fiesty-self every day. Just no more driving the car.... :-) Oh, and Dad you are the biggest sweetheart, Happy 90th Birthday this month.

Hug a mom today and EVERY DAY!

Melisa at Vizcaya Gardens

2008-05-03T20:48:00.002-04:00

Meet Melisa, who had her Quince formals at the beautiful Vizcaya Gardens in Miami. With her beautiful gown, it was like we stepped back in time to the Renaissance era. Every where you looked there were beautiful backdrops for photo ops and even a few rain drops didn't stop us.

A Quince formal... what a beautiful place for Melisa's quince formals.... held at the Vizcaya gardens.... a step back in time to the age of the Renaissance among formal gardens and Italian Villas.

Lesly and Jorge

2008-04-25T19:36:00.003-04:00

Meet Lesly and Jorge... a beautiful couple with hearts of gold and many cherished moments captured at their wedding. I loved it when the Bride sang a surprise solo at the ceremony and then they both sang to each other during their first dance at the reception. And of course, not to be out done by the handsome vintage Rolls Royce... wow what a way to be swept away. Congratulations to you both and may you have many wonderful memories together for a long time.

A beautiful wedding of Lesly and Jorge beginning with Lesly being swept away in a vintage Rolls Royce to the ceremony. Lesly surprised her groom, Jorge at the ceremony as she sang a beautiful solo.

sssssshhhhhh...A SURPRISE !

2008-04-24T13:10:00.003-04:00

Meet Ariella, Allison, and Adam....sisters and brother from New York, vacationing here in Florida at the Hyatt Bonaventure in Weston with their parents. Ariella called me up to book a photo session for her and her siblings to capture a beautiful portrait while they are here on vacation, as a surprise for their mom's birthday!! What a fabulous idea,..." and so much more meaningful than another bouquet of flowers or a box of chocolate...", said Ariella, who was so excited to surprise her mom with a special memory captured on the 'sly' during their vacation. We captured a lot of fun moments and ended the day with a 'splash' party when Adam jumped in the pool !! wheeeeeee what fun.

Sisters in the Park

2008-04-21T09:07:00.002-04:00

Meet sisters, Michelle (in red) and Stephanie (in white).

It was a beautiful day in the park ...made even more beautiful by the appearance of sisters, Stephanie and Michelle for their model photo shoot. Stephanie, 16, has been modeling and has appeared in Cosmopolitan, and Michelle, 13, (in the red dress) decided to work her magic in front of the camera also. Both girls made it easy for me and we all had a fun time.

Young model/actresses Stephanie and Michelle are also sisters who aspire to work in front of the camera for a career. They sure have a lot of talent to head in that direction. Play the video clip and enjoy. Diane

TWO DAY PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP

2008-04-09T23:18:00.004-04:00

TURN THE ORDINARY INTO
EXTRAORDINARY

Two-day portrait photography workshop with Rob Heyman, master photographer from Australia.

I am so thrilled to have this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to HOST a Rob Heyman workshop at my home/studio in Weston, Florida. We will be using the lush tropical locations in our area for Rob to work his magic with our 'models' at our live photo sessions during the workshop. The photographers at the workshop will have the opportunity to practice what they learn at the workshop with families and children models.

Who should attend?
Suitable for working photographers with a minimum of 1 year’s experience working
with portrait clients and families. You must bring your own professional cameras,
lenses and equipment you use.

The Workshop
Topics to be covered:
• Improve your portraiture and create masterful images
• Your increased sales will pay for the seminar in one job.
• Lighting, natural lighting indoor and outdoor you can adapt
anywhere
• Composition
• Location selection for lighting and creativity
• How to Pose a family so they do not appear posed
• Hands-on outdoor photography session in different locations
• Live shoot with families and models.
• Effective job cos ting
• Feedback on your portraiture
• Your product mix and presentation
• Client preparation
• The client ordering session…allow your client to buy and let the
images sell themselves.
• Two days of education and practice

2 DAY WORKSHOP COST: $450.00 USD
Lunch provided both days
Payment is by credit card
Workshop from 9:30am-5:30pm

WORKSHOP DATES AND LOCATIONS
Workshops have limited numbers and may vary between workshops.
Dallas, Texas, June 9th and 10th, Our host is Cheryl Ogle.
Weston, Florida, June 12th and 13th, with host Diane Schafer.
Knoxville, Tennessee, June 16th and 17th, with host Steve Chastain.
Clinton, Connecticut , June 26th and 27th, with host Melissa Demille

What to Bring
Motivation
Camera equipment and laptop (if available)
Notebook and pen
Wet weather gear if raining and camera protection
Sample images of your work.

View more of Rob’s work at: http://www.heymanphoto.com
http://heymanports2.blogspot.com/ and http://heymanweddings.blogspot.com

Any Questions?
We welcome your queries about the workshops. If you wish to be sure this workshop
is right for you simply ask your host or email Rob and Shirlene on
heymanev@bigpond.net.au
check out his PDF link with all the information at : Rob Heyman Workshop

Once you have made the decision to book we will email you to find out how we can
meet your needs at the workshops, to gain an insight into your photography market
and your photography style. We are really looking forward to working with you.

Go to www.heymanevents.com for the workshop booking and payment form.

If you have any questions you can also contact me, Diane Schafer at diane@dianeschafer.com
You can also check out Rob Heyman's PDF link with all his information for the workshop.
Click here: Rob Heyman's Workshop

NAOCP= National Association of Charitable Photographers

2008-04-08T18:21:00.003-04:00

The following article was published in the South Florida Hospital Newspaper in the April edition for National Volunteer Week. You can also learn more about NAOCP at www.naocp.com.

"In conjunction with National
Volunteer Week, South Florida
Hospital News would like to
salute the following individuals
who have made a difference
in our communities."

Photographer Focuses
on Life’s Last Moments
Diane Schafer
The last days and weeks of a person’s life are filled
with precious moments, and award-winning photographer
Diane Schafer deftly captures those moments
for VITAS patients and families—on her own time, at
her own expense.
Diane, a volunteer photographer for VITAS
Innovative Hospice Care® of Broward County, has
been taking photos of VITAS patients and families for
a year. As a professional photographer, she was
inspired to get involved with VITAS after a tragic
death in her own family.
“My granddaughter, Meghan, was born weighing
only one pound,” says Diane. “She had cystic fibrosis and a number of other health problems.
I was constantly traveling to see her, and I was constantly taking pictures of her.
“Meghan died when she was 8 months old,” continues Diane. “I realized how much it
meant to record the few moments of life that she lived, and how much it meant to my
son and daughter-in-law to have those photos. It made me think that others might enjoy
having similar photos.”
Diane, who, with her husband, owns Music Tech Studios in Pembroke Pines, learned
about VITAS when she joined the National Association of Charitable Photographers.
“The association has photographers all over the country who do volunteer work for
VITAS,” she explains. When she realized there was a VITAS program in Broward County,
she volunteered her services.
Diane had to undergo the rigorous volunteer training that VITAS requires, then waited
until field staff spread the word among their patients that free, professional photography
was available to them. Soon enough, the calls started to come in.
Diane typically spends an hour with her subjects, taking both posed and candid shots
in black-and-white and color—although she prefers the candid ones. “They’re usually
more emotional,” she says. She spends up to three hours editing the photographs, preparing
slide shows with music and creating photo CDs, digital files and paper prints, all of
which go to the patients and families without charge.
One patient’s family gave Diane so many photo opportunities during her visit that she
won first prize in a photo contest hosted by the National Hospice and Palliative Care
Organization in late 2007.
“This work is very rewarding,” says Diane. “I feel blessed to be able to do it.”
Submitted by Anne Warren, VITAS Volunteer Services Manager. For more information about volunteering at
VITAS in Broward County, call (954) 486-4085

Playing Beautiful Music Together

2008-04-08T00:43:00.004-04:00

Nikki and Brian were married on March 28th at the Grand Palms Hotel. It was a beautiful wedding with brown and teal as the color theme. Nikki and Brian both first met each other at my music store "Music Tech Studios", where Nikki taught trumpet and Brian teaches piano, guitar and voice. They are our first love match at Music Tech. Nikki now teaches band at a local middle school. They added their own special touches of music at their wedding as Brian sang and performed on piano one of his original love songs dedicated to Nikki.... it was so moving. He also sang a song at the reception. Not many brides have their grooms perform an original song for them at their wedding.

Sara and Ryan's Wedding

2008-03-27T14:19:00.003-04:00

SARA AND RYAN... and their beautiful wedding at the Hyatt Bonaventure Resort and Spa.

Even though the skies opened up with rain showers, it didn't threaten to dampen the beautiful and romantic wedding of Sara and Ryan. So, a few plans were changed and the bride and groom decided to have their 'first look' at each other in the gardens before the ceremony, while the rain was still only a drizzle. We managed to get a few great shots off under umbrellas and protection from the 'rain forest' overhangs. It gave them more time to be with each other and gave me a LOT more time to capture some special moments of just Sara and Ryan before the festivities began. Enjoy.

A beautiful and romantic wedding ceremony, showered with tears and rain, and neither dampened the love felt by all at their ceremony.

Rachel and Mike's Wedding

2008-03-18T21:25:00.002-04:00

A beautiful and romantic wedding in the Gardens of Hyatt Bonaventure of Weston.

Rachel and Mike had a magnificent wedding and they looked like Prince Charming and his gorgeous Princess out of a storybook. I was thrilled that they decided to have their "first look" on their wedding day in a private setting before the ceremony in the beautiful 'Red Door' gardens at the Hyatt in Bonaventure. It was a magical moment as they both anticipated their first moment to cast their eyes upon each other in private. Many tears of emotion were shed and it was very special for me to have that opportunity to capture that special time when they each reacted to the 'first moment of seeing each other' before the ceremony.

Playtime in the Studio...or how to entertain a 2 1/2 yr old

2008-03-12T00:33:00.007-04:00

Or.... bragging rights from Grandma Di.

Colin, my almost-3-year old grandson and I had playtime in the studio this weekend. It's always nice when he gives me a chance to practice my 'fast trigger' shutter finger with him romping around in the studio area. Somehow, 3 year olds do not understand the concept of 'stand still' and look this way...but I wouldn't have it any other way... who wants a boring picture of a 'standing-still' cutie anyway? So, I thought I'd post a few of my grandson, Colin.

This is Colin's HUGE stuffed dog, fondly named "Brownie". Since we don't have a dog or cat, Brownie works just as well as a playmate and sleeping buddy.

AN EDUCATED CONSUMER

2008-03-05T15:18:00.004-05:00

WHY DOES PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY COST SO MUCH?

I recently ran across this article in a Professional Photographers forum and found it interesting as 'sometimes' clients will ponder the reason for the pricing of Professional Photographers. It is a great explanation as to the costs, time and talent involved in professional photographers pricing structure for prints and photo sessions. In our digital age of photography, we have to be more than creative and skilled photographers, we also have to be 'darkroom' experts in photoshop in order to edit and enhance all our images BEFORE they are sent to the professional print lab. This image editing involves many more hours AFTER the session to produce a quality product for our clients. But having said that, I truly enjoy the creative process both during a photo session and after in the computer 'darkroom'. The whole process feeds my passion... ask my husband who thinks he has lost me to the computer.

When you have time, I encourage you to read on and hopefully this article will help clients see the whole "picture" as to the reason for the costs and fees of professional photography.

**********
(article from the website of Shawn, Pamela and Gavin Richter and credit goes to them, with editions from Diane Schafer Photography)

Why are Professional Photographers so expensive?

In this digital age where everyone has digital cameras, scanners and home "photo printers", when people upload their photos to a local drug store website and pick them up a few hours later, we hear this all the time - "How in the world do Professional Photographers charge $40.00 for an 8x10 when they cost just $1.50 at the drug store?"

Here's why.

Simply put, you're not just paying for the actual photograph or the paper it comes on, you're paying for time and expertise and the skill that created that image. First, let's look at the actual time involved. If you don't read this entire page, at least read this first part.

For a one hour portrait session:

- travel time to and from the session if on location
- one hour of shooting
- 30 minutes of setup, preparation, talking to the client etc.
- 30 minutes to load the photos onto a computer
- 30 minutes to back up the files on an external drive
- 3 - 4 hours of Photoshop 'lightroom' time including cropping, contrast, color, sharpening, saving a copy for print and a copy for the internet and backing up the edited photographs
- 2 - 3 hours to talk to the client, answer questions, receive their order and payment, order their prints, receive and verify prints, package prints, deliver to client

You can see how one hour session easily turns into more than ten hours of work from start to finish. So when you see a Photographer charging a $120 session fee for a one hour photo shoot, you are not paying them $120 / hour, you are getting MUCH more than an hour of their time.

For an eight hour wedding:

- I won't bore you with the details, but an eight hour wedding typically amounts to at least one full 40 hour work weeks worth of time. Again, if they are charging you $4,000 for an eight hour wedding, you are not paying them $500 / hour, and you are getting much more.

Now for the expertise.

Shooting professional photography is a skill, acquired through years of experience. Even though a quality professional camera now costs under $2,000 taking professional portraits involves much more than a nice camera. Lenses sometimes can cost more than the camera body itself. And then there is the lighting equipment and all the extras for the studio. And of course, it isn't just the expensive camera equipment that makes a great photographer, its the keen eye, creative mind and the heart and passion behind the lens.

Most Professional Photographers take years to go from buying their first decent camera to making money with their photography. In addition to learning how to use the camera itself, there is a mountain of other equipment involved, as well as numerous software programs used to edit and print photographs, run a website etc.

And let's not forget that you actually have to have people skills, be able to communicate, make people comfortable in front of the camera - and posing people to make them look their best in a photograph is a skill all by itself.

Think of it this way - the next time you pay $XX to get your hair done, a pair of scissors only costs $1.50. But you gladly pay a lot more to hire a Professional.

What about the cheap studios at the mall?

Please don't compare us to the chain store studios. But if you must, consider all of the time and work that we put into our photographs, compared to what they do. Good luck getting an hour personalized and custom photo shoot at a chain store where ALL the other chain store pictures look the same where they have the 'say cheese' expressions. Not to mention they won't come to the beach! Is that where the saying, "you get what you pay for" comes from?

The truth is, most of the mall and chain store studios lose money. In fact, in 2007 Wal-Mart closed 500 of their portrait studios because of the financial drain they were putting on the company. What the chain stores bet on is that you'll come in for some quick and cheap photos, and while you're there, you'll also spend $200 on other things. They don't have to make money, they are just there to get you in the door.

Conclusion

We hope that those who have taken the time to read this page will have a better understanding of why professional photographs cost so much more than the ones that you get from your local drug store.

***************

I hope you have found this article enlightening and read it in the spirit it is intended.... to understand that the value you have placed on the portraits you have chosen to have commissioned by Diane Schafer Photography are truly an investment for a lifetime of memories. I thank all my clients for entrusting me with capturing those real-lifetime memories and know that it is my passion to offer you a quality portrait, whether it be for your wedding or a newborn's first smile, or anywhere in between.

Thanks for reading, Diane Schafer.

Preview of DJ Stryke's new release

2008-02-28T21:41:00.001-05:00

Watch the video of Stryke's studio session with Diane Schafer Photography and listen to a cut from his soon to be released new CD, "The Narrowest of Paths". Enjoy!!

Create Your Storybook Wedding

2008-02-27T23:00:00.001-05:00

View my latest video of several of my weddings photographed the past year.

Three Generations....Baby, Mom and Grandmom

2008-02-24T22:45:00.006-05:00

WOW!!! WHAT A BEAUTIFUL FAMILY.... little Tyler and his mom and grandmom had a baby portrait session in the studio. Tyler is such a well behaved baby... with all the 'wardrobe' changes, he didn't fuss once and he even tried sitting up for us with a little help from mom. The session had a few touching moments as we honored Tyler's twin sister, who passed away from premature complications, as they all dressed in pink and held one of his sisters butterfly toys. It will be a wonderful memory for Tyler as he gets older.

such an angel.....

Twins for Jessica and Blair

2008-02-24T22:25:00.005-05:00

Blair called me up to arrange a maternity session for his wife, Jessica, who is expecting twins...... any second now! He was so excited to record this experience and the beauty of her pregnancy and I was honored to be able to capture their love together with their expectant twins. They are such a beautiful and loving couple and Blair is so proud of his wife and they were both so natural and 'hands on' at the photo session. I can't wait to take their pictures with the twins in their arms.