Coffee Is On Me...

I just got back from Barnes and Noble in Poughkeepsie, and the display is finally up. I have to say, Tom of Morano Frames did a fantastic job. I am so excited for you all to see them. Remember, there will be a gathering on Thursday, September 4th at 7pm. Coffee, Tea and refreshments will be served.

See you there!

Beautiful Boy...

What a sweetie this little guy is. Not only is he absolutely adorable, he is such a good baby. Not one little ounce of fuss out of him. Truly a joy to photograph. Mommy and daddy did good too for their first photoshoot :)

Holiday Sessions Are Booked...

Wow, August isn't even over yet and Holiday Specials have not been announced, but I am booked. I will be accepting names for a waiting list, should I have a cancellation or change of schedule and am able to take more week day sessions.

I do have one day in September that just became available. Please email me for date info.

Thanks!

Dutchess County Fair...

We were able to sneak in a little family time this past weekend at the Dutchess County Fair. Reminds me of where I grew up in Connecticut, lots of cows and livestock :) Of coarse, who needs rides when there are excavators, front loaders and tractors to play on.

Check out the legs on that front loader

Where are the pig races?

Yes, we really watched the pig races.

Riding the bull.

Motorcycle man.

"Momma, look at that forklift!!!!!"

I promised to shoot her best angle :)

Big A and Little A

Ok, I know, I know, a little back logged....sorry :) So many pictures, so little time. This session was a lot different than the first time we met last year. Little A was just a wee little thing and was just able to push herself up and Big Sister A was very shy. This year, I got myself a good cardio workout chasing these two around. It was a lovely morning and we even had a little entourage of on lookers following us everywhere.

This one cracks me up. It's like she is pointing at her peeps, saying, "I got you babe."

Momtrepreneurs...

There is nothing harder than being a mommy and starting your own business. I have been very lucky to have built a business that I LOVE through great clientele and word of mouth. I never thought that I would actually love going to work! In fact, I love it so much, I don’t consider it work. I am a huge supporter of mom based businesses, including Waddle N Swaddle, Jeune Girl and Little Ones, because I believe in their businesses and I love what they stand for.

What I want t to do is help other Momtrepreneurs get their names out there. I am looking for Momtrepreneurs, who like me, created their own business out of a great idea or by doing something they LOVE to do. Whether you own a physical store, do your business online through eBay or etsy, or however you do it, I want to hear about it!

Every month I want to feature a new Momtrepreneur and their services or goods offered. What I need from you is to send me an email to melissa@surprisephotography.com and I will send you back a questionnaire regarding your services/goods. Those selected will receive a feature spot on my blog - I have fabulous blog stalkers by the way.

Let me know if you have any other questions and I hope to hear from you soon!

Return of Little Miss V...

I love red heads and how could you not love this one, especially with her amazing eyes. I first met this little cutie back in April and we have planning her one year shoot since then. When she smiles, she puts everything into it, eyes, teeth, tounge, arms, her pretty red hair :)

Artist Of The Month...

I have been keeping this on the down low for half the year now, but earlier this year, I was asked to be the "Artist Of The Month," at Barnes & Noble in Poughkeepsie, NY. I feel so honored to be amongst a limited amount of artist that are displayed here every year.

For the month of September, I will have a gallery in the cafe, which proudly serves my favorite Starbucks :)

I had a really hard time selecting my favorite images for this display, but I hope you have an opportunity to swing on by and check it out.

Polls Are Closed!

Thank you so much to all the parents who sent in their photos for the "Fresh Face" submission. There was a great response in the votes, and we even have a tie in Group B! I will be in contact real soon with the winners parents.

CONGRATULATIONS to our winners and Thanks Again!!!

"Is That The Hudson River?"

That is what Brayden asks me with every trip across the Mid Hudson Bridge. And it was in the back of my head today as I met with this family at a beautiful location along the Hudson. These kids hold a special place in my heart, I have been photographing little Miss H for the past year now. I did her newborn pictures just weeks after she was born. Here killer eyes and big brother's handsome smile, get me every time.








Mommy and Daddy having a private moment.


Mommy and I planned our schedule just right. When we first met up, the sun was out and there were very few clouds in the sky. Just an hour later, we could see the storm clouds coming from Ulster County. Not too long after I got home, it was pouring. Good timing M!

A Day At The Winery...

There was no better place to be on such a beautiful day then at Millbrook Vineyards & Winery, in Millbrook NY. The staff was very welcoming in allowing me and this Rhode Island family, on the grounds early in the morning so we could do our shoot here.

It is an absolutely beautiful and peaceful place to spend an afternoon. They host many functions, including weddings, right on the grounds, but are also set up for those who wish to come picnic next to the large pond.


I was very excited about this season, as I am all of them, but mostly because this family was traveling in from Rhode Island. When we talked a couple months back, it turns out the one day I had open, was the one day they could meet. We had talked so much on the phone, it was like seeing an old friend. These precious little girls looked some much alike, it was twins born 12 months apart.

After we finished our session, I actually stuck around to see the opening of winery. The tour was very educational and the tastings, were very yummy of coarse! It was having a hard time picking my favorite, but once I tried the 2006 Cabernet Franc, SOLD! I actually splurged on the 2005 Cabernet Franc Block Three East, which is a Gold Medal Winner.

To celebrate this historic day, and the opening of the Olympics,
I will be offering an $88 session fee until 8pm.

There are VERY limited spots left this year so take advantage of this great offer.

Please call me at 834-3241 or email me at melissa@surprisephotography.com

Thank You!

Price does not include travel fee or tax.
Session must be paid in full at the time of booking.
Must be used by November 7th, 2008.

Kennebunkport...

Maine was the destination of our first weekend away without the kids in 2 years. It was hard to leave, but we went up to celebrate the wedding of our friends Chris and Taylor. We have never been to Kennebunkport before, so I was unaware that the Bush Family has a summer home there. Quaint little place on the water. I'd take it ;) Anyway, apparently the Pres was in town for a wedding as well, located at their mansion. We took a drive by the mansion and saw the water surrounding the home, swarming with a small battle ship and many Secret Service boats. Reporters lined the streets waiting to get their shots. Me, I drove by like the paparazzi and shot out the window :)

We stayed at a great little B&B about a 1/2 mile from town, so it was great to be able to walk every where, stroller free. Although it was hazy most of the weekend, the weather held out through the wedding ceremony, pictures and social hour. Once we headed into the restaurant for dinner, down pour. Although I was a guest and not the hired photographer, I had a great time taking pictures. I really would love to get into wedding photography, and have actually turned a couple down, I just want to make sure I am prepared 100% for it. There is a big difference between the no pressure friend in the crowd with a camera and the paid photographer. I am planning on doing my first wedding next year, which I am really excited about.

The reception was held at a great restaurant called On The Marsh. My husband said it was the best wedding food he ever had. The night was followed up with drinks and dancing. Although I missed my kids, I was a nice birthday present to get away and spend some time with my hubby and celebrate the union of two great people and their wonderful families. We can't thank them enough for their kindness and generosity this weekend.

Best wishes Chris and Taylor!