What to Wear Wednesday: Spring Trends | Ann Arbor, MI Photographer

Emerald Green is the Pantone color of the year for 2013, but there are plenty of other colors that are trending for the Spring. Here's a few hues that might inspire your own outfits for your portraits.

Spring 2013 Color Trends by callmeunwritten featuring diane von furstenberg

Baby Lucian | Ann Arbor Newborn Photographer

Introducing baby Lucian. He's 10 days new and perfect in every way, and such a model! There was barely any fussing out of him the whole time, had to take a few potty breaks, but he was a trooper. Baby Lucian tolerated any hat or wrap mom and I put him in, pretty much cooperating through it all. I have so many good images from the session, it was incredibly difficult to narrow them down. Brace yourself for some newborn cuteness below.

Since this is was my first newborn session of the new year, I looked back on my very first newborn session ever and it's truly amazing to see how far I've come since then. It's almost embarrassing, but that's part of the learning process. Making mistakes, growing, and moving forward. That's one of the reasons being a photographer is the perfect job for me; it's constantly changing and there is always new techniques to be learned. Plus, I love a challenge!

If you're interested in scheduling newborn portraits please call 517.499.9380
or email nataliemaephotography@yahoo.com.

Thank You! | Jackson MI Portrait Photographer

2012 has been a really eventful year for me! I graduated with my second degree, this time in Graphic Design; photographed some really amazing clients; and did a 360 with the direction of my business. There's been ups and downs, but what's life without some bumps?! I am truly thankful for each and everyone of my clients. Every time I get to photograph someone I learn something new and always have a great time. My business wouldn't be anything without my clients, so I am forever indebted to you for allowing me to pursue my dreams.

The new year brings more changes for us first starting with the name change. We were formally known as Natty J Photography, and are starting out 2013 with a fresh look as Natalie Mae Photography. Still, same beautiful portraits and individual customer attention, just with a neater and cleaner looking package. I can't wait to photograph and get to know more of you in the new year! Until then, here's my incredible collection of 2012 clients...and once again...THANKS!!

The D Family | Jackson, MI Family Photographer

Meet Tina and her awesome family! I had the pleasure of connecting with Tina through a Craigslist ad I posted looking for a web coder. We got together and talked for a few hours about what I wanted to do with my website and how she wanted updated family portraits, in the end we worked out a pretty sweet trade. Her children attend school at Michigan State University and we decided somewhere on or near campus would be a great place to do the photos. These were at Cooley Gardens, which I had never been to before, and was pleasantly surprised when the place was gorgeous!! I love the little hidden treasures that are nestled around the city; Cooley Gardens is located right off of I-496 and I would have never thought there would be an awesome garden there. Michigan threatened rain, but once again it turned out to be a gorgeous day and the rain held off until later in the afternoon.

Fill in the Blank Friday | Jackson, MI Photographer

I borrowed this idea from an amazing photographer in Portland, Motormouth Studios (seriously check out her blog, I love her design style and her photography work. I have this feeling that if we ever met in person we'd be great friends!) Anywho, she posts a series of random questions and answers them as a little deeper insight to who she is, so I thought it would be fun to do that as well.

What makes you happy?
My two dogs, a good cup of coffee, and a cozy bed.

What's one piece of clothing you can't live without?
I'd definitely have to say either my flats or a great pair of jeans.

What's right with the world?
That there are people who still care about others and will go out of their way to help their fellow man/animal.

Are you a morning or night person?
I am 100% a night person (I think most photographers agree), I get most of my work done at night when things have calmed down and I can really focus.

Name one quirk about yourself.
I have to put everything in order. CD's/DVD's/Books are all in alphabetical order in my house and my closet is organized in order of the rainbow. Things are just easier to find that way :)

What is your favorite food your parents make?
Okay this one is hard because I LOVE to eat and my mom makes such good food, but my top three are her homemade pizza, vegetable beef soup, and mush (I've heard mush called other things, but it's just fried cornbread that you eat like a pancake with butter and syrup). My favorite food that my dad makes is crawfish  etouffee...seriously the best thing ever! Think a creole dish with rice, garlic, butter, lots of herbs, and crawfish, NOM!

And I can't leave without a photo, this is me (left) and my little sister when we were young. I'm probably 10 years old and she's most likely 2 years old.

N + J | Jackson, MI Family Photographer

I went to college with N and have known her for awhile now, so of course I was thrilled when she asked me to take photos of her and her boyfriend. Aren't they just the cutest?! Plus, her hair is gorgeous! I've always loved the color of it. The Michigan weather threatened to rain all day long, but in true Michigan tradition it did just the opposite, which was PERFECT for this session.

Me & The Boys | Jackson, MI Photographer

 

Over the last few months I've been working really hard to lose weight, which if you've ever tried you know is no easy task. I have fallen off the wagon a few times here and there (darn sour cream and onion chips!), but I have always dusted myself off and got back on. When I first started eating right and working out I emailed a photographer friend of mine, Shawna Gerry Photography, and asked if she wanted to trade family photos this fall. It was a great motivation to keep going and my goal was to lose 25lbs by the time the session rolled around. I didn't quite make it, but I'm down 21.5lbs and see those pants in the images? They are a size smaller than when I started, so I really can't complain!

I am absolutely in love with these and I can't wait to hang them up. It's my favorite time of year, so what better time to get family photos done?! Hurry, book your family portraits with your favorite Jackson family photographer before the colors disappear!

Holiday Deadlines | Jackson, MI Family Photographer

It's that time of year again to start thinking about sending out those holiday cards and getting family portraits, a perfect gift for any grandparent. However, there are some important dates that you need to know to make sure that you receive your prints in time and aren't scrambling at the last minute (like I usually am haha). Book your portrait session early to guarantee your spot and get ahead of the game.

Important Holiday Dates

November 1 - Last day for a full portrait session to be photographed & guaranteed before the holidays.
November 15 - Holiday Mini Sessions (details to be announced later).
November 21 - Deadline for holiday orders. Must be placed no later than noon.

Fall Activities for Everyone | Jackson, MI Family Photographer

This fall there are tons of local events going on that are great and don't cost too much money. I've made it easy on everyone and complied a list of just a few of those, feel free to add an event you know about in the comments! So get out there and enjoy the gorgeous weather while it lasts, winter is just around the corner.

Zombie Cult Classic Films

Tonight, Creep Theater and The Michigan Theatre present two cult classic zombie films AND a special screening of the short "zomedy" - 'Living Deadhead,' shot entirely in Jackson. The doors open at 6pm - Show starts at 7pm. Admission: $5.00

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Cascade Falls End of Summer Fireworks

Saturday, September 1st Cascade Falls will be doing their End of Summer Fireworks Show with live entertainment by Wheatfield Soul, offering a variety of music from artists ranging from the Beatles to U2 and Kid Rock to Adele. 7:00 p.m. show. Admission is $6.00 per person; 10 & under free when accompanied by an adult. (Rain Date: Sunday, Sept. 2nd)

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Michigan Renaissance Festival
Until September 30th the Michigan Renaissance Festival will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10a-7p. I go every year (usually I dress up in a full wenches dress!) and have an absolute blast! They've got amazing food and various handmade crafts. People come from all over the country to partake in the festival and dress up in some amazingly elaborate costumes. I was lucky enough to get a photo of the Queen from last year after the jousting match. Check out the detail in her dress!!

Admission:
$20.95 adults
$11.95 kids (5-12)
$18.95 seniors 65+ and students w/college ID

Website - Facebook
12500 Dixie Highway

Holly, Michigan 48442

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Fall Family Festival
The Fall Family Festival is happening September 21-23 behind the St. John Elementary/Jackson Catholic Middle School on Cooper St. The best part about it, is there's no admission fee, free parking, and TONS of fun to be had. Carnival rides, fireworks, and a car show are just some of the events going on that weekend. I've been in the past and had a great time, I definitely recommend going!

Website

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Meckley's Flavor Fruit Farm
Flavor Fruit Farms is open all week long from 9a-6p, and they have something for everyone to do. They open up their fall activities on September 17th from 12p-5p. Some of the fun includes a corn maze, hay rides, live farm, pumpkin patch, and so much more!

This year on September 29 & 30th they're going "purple" in support of Relay for Life and the weekend of October 12 & 13th they're going "pink" to support Making Strides. Two really great causes to help out while having fun with the family. Flavor Fruit Farms was even cool enough to turn the corn maze into the Relay for Life logo! Still not convinced? Maple Bacon Donuts...three little words that will change your life, how can anything get better than that?!

Photo courtesy of Meckley's Flavor Fruit Farms

Website - Facebook

11025 S. Jackson Rd.

Somerset Center, MI 49282

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Free Children's Movies
Goodrich Theaters in Jackson are playing free movies for all ages every Saturday and Sunday at 9a & 10a for the next few months. So whether you're young in age or just young at heart, stop on by and enjoy a great movie. Plus, you can pick up some favorite movie snacks for a great price; kids size popcorn, candy, and 12oz pop is only $3.50 or you can get a kids size popcorn, healthy snack, and a water for $4.50. The schedule is as follows (they say the movie is possibly subject to change):

• September 8 & 9 - Madagascar 3
• September 15 & 16 - Journey 2: The Mystery Island
• September 22 & 23 - Rio
• September 29 & 30 - Mirror Mirror
• October 6 & 7 - Rango
• October 13 & 14 - The Lorax
• October 20 & 21 - Ice Age 4: Continental Drift
• October 27 & 28 - Paranorman
• November 3 & 4 - Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days

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Zombie Walk
Did you know Jackson has it's own Zombie Walk?! Me either! It's happening on October 13th downtown Jackson, registration is $10 and will help support the March of Dimes. The registration for zombies will be at 4:30p at Biggby Coffee on Wisner. I couldn't find out too many details as their still working out the kinks, but I know I will be taking photos of everyone and their scary makeup as they hobble the streets of Jackson.

Facebook - Facebook Event Page

What to Wear Wednesday | Fun & Casual Men

Switching things up again, usually my What to Wear Wednesday posts are geared towards women, but the guys need love in the wardrobe department too! This simple style tools were created by Maddygaddy on Polyvore.com (LOVE that website for planning outfits). These are great tips to follow when planning what you're going to wear to your portrait session. Very simple, casual, laid back, and most importantly...comfy. I don't expect anyone to rush out and buy these items, but they're great for giving you ideas of how to put together a portrait wardrobe.

outfit guide for men(#1) by maddygaddy featuring vans shoes

What to Wear Wednesday | Toddler Edition

These are some great combinations for the little man in your life. This simple style tools were created by Maddygaddy on Polyvore.com (LOVE that website for planning outfits). Very simple, casual, laid back, and most importantly...comfy. The last things those little ones want is to be restricted by stuffy clothing, these options allow them to move around and still have fun, but look absolutely darling at the same time.

Now I don't expect anyone to rush out and buy these items, but they're great for giving you ideas of how to put together a portrait wardrobe.

Toddler photo shoot apparel options by maddygaddy on polyvore.com

Survey Says | Jackson, MI Photographer

It's always good to hear praises about your work and I'm absolutely flattered that I've had the privilege to work with the sweetest clients anyone could ask for. Here's just a few of the reviews that I've received:

I recently had the pleasure of working with Natty J. for my engagement and wedding photos. I couldn't be happier with the entire experience. She was professional, yet fun at the same time. She gave excellent direction and truly made my photos precisely what I wanted.
-Melissa & Jason



I had Natalie do my family photos as my mother's Christmas present this year. I couldn't have been happier. She took her time with us and showed great attention to detail. I frequently recommend her to friends and family.
- The Hashley Family

Natalie has done a few photo shoots for me and she is wonderful. Our family portraits turned out beautifully! I'll definitely come back to Natalie in the future, she is a very sweet and professional young lady and does exceptional work for a great price.
- The Register Family



Natalie was an incredible photographer and she priced so reasonably. We loved all of our photos -- she has such an artistic eye for angles. Bonus: She loves animals and was more than thrilled to capture our dog, Stoli, in all the shots for the rehearsal and wedding. LOVE HER!
- Erin & Topher

The C Family | Jackson, MI Family Photographer

It's amazing how much children can change in just a year. Last year I had the privilege of photographing the C Family and they came back again this year to have their portraits done. I love the comparison of how much each of the little ones have changed. Their personalities are really starting to show now! I've posted an image of each of them from last year and this year below. Last session it was all about toy trucks and construction, but now we went on an adventure hunting for "mole holes." You've got to love their vivid imagination!

What to Wear Wednesday | Teal and Baby Pink

I love this look it's very Spring-y, but I think it would still be amazing this time of year. This look was put together by DeannaSchroeter on Polyvore.com, I love that she's added some basic makeup to the look, this would be amazing with a simple cat-eye and nude eyeshadow. When I imagine the session that this outfit would be in, I see a Shoots for a Cure session. A strong woman that just finished her final round of chemo, rocking her bald head with that fabulous hat; empowered knowing that you've gotten a second chance at life. If you're interested in learning more about a Shoots for a Cure portrait session, check out my blog post or give me a call, 517.499.9380

Now I don't expect anyone to rush out and buy these items, but they're great for giving you ideas of how to put together a portrait wardrobe.

Untitled #395 by deannaschroeter featuring a box clutch

Pepsi Mini-Sessions | Jackson, MI Photographer

First of all, many of you might be wondering, "What is a mini-session?" These are themed portrait sessions that are shorter than our typical session, each lasting roughly 30 minutes. This time the theme will be Pepsi. Sorry to all the Coke lovers, but I found the Pepsi props before the Coke ones. We'll have an adorable set-up outside at Ella Sharp Park near the Rotunda. They will take place on September 8th, but if the weather doesn't cooperate (*fingers crossed that it does*), then September 15th is the rain date.

The price of the session is $50, this must be paid in advance to reserve your time slot. You will also receive 30% off the purchase of our prints and products for the promotion. At the time of your mini-session we will schedule a day and time for you to view and order your images; the photos take approximately 10-14 days to process.

We will only be offering 10 Pepsi mini-sessions slots, so book yours early to guarantee your spot!
517.499.9380 | nattyjphotography@yahoo.com

Available Time Slots

1. 12-12:30p
2. 12:40-1:10p
3. 1:20-1:50p
4. 2-2:30p
5. 2:40-3:10p
6. 3:20-3:50p
7. 4-4:30p
8. 4:40-5:10p
9. 5:20-5:50
10. 6-6:30p

Unique Memories | Jackson, MI Senior Photographer

I started doing these videos in the fall of last year, but I've decided to step it up this year and make them even better! Check this one out that I did for the D Family.

Also, I want to showcase the guestbook below, if you remember from the fall when I posted about photographing my little sister's senior photos (still is weird to me lol)...well here's her guest book for her open house. I am SO pleased with the book, it's a lay-flat book making it easier for guests to write in it. Plus, it doesn't look weird having a photo going across both pages because you don't have a part of it stuck in the gutter of the book!

Spring is Here!! | Jackson, MI Family Photographer

I was SO excited to photograph Alicia and her family! I've known her mother for a couple years now and she's like my third mom and I've always heard about her kids, but never met them for more than a couple of seconds, so I was pumped when she contacted me. Originally we were just going to shoot outdoors, but last minute changed to both outdoors and studio and I'm so glad we did! We had a blast coming up with fun shots like the Charlie's Angels and the "thug" shots below. Then we headed outside and went for a short walk, which turned out to be way longer than I had remembered from previous years...oops...but everything was good and turned out great.

What to Wear Wednesday | Jackson, MI Photographer

Coordinating outfits is all about those few select items that just jump right out. You don't want everyone wearing one, but done right and in moderation, it can really make the portrait without looking too cheesy. Below is an example of a semi-muted color palette, with just a taste of something wild. The neon handbag and shoes just add that little umph to send this over the top! Now, I'm not saying rush out and buy everything I just posted, just consider the styling, color combination of the pieces and how a little goes a long way.

Purple with Neon Green2 by nattyjphotography featuring long sleeve silk shirts

Oh the Places You'll Go | Jackson, MI Photographer

It's only 16 days into 2012 and I've been working on some pretty BIG things for the business. Once everything is done I will launch it all at once, but for now you've got some time to book at the 2011 prices. I've restructured my prices to meet everyone's needs, I have to thank you if you participated in my Facebook questions. I really took those into consideration when I did the prices. I've gotten rid of some products that weren't so popular and added some new things that I think you'll like! After designing a wedding album for one of my clients last year I've decided to add an album to almost every wedding collection. I am so excited about that one!! The albums are gorgeous and people swoon over them, the client I did the album for last year said all of her friends and family LOVE their album.

I've also reworded my contract, I'm getting with a lawyer soon to have them go over wording to make sure everything is legit. They're prettier (the perks of going back to school for graphic design) and laid out more effectively. Plus, I've added a "first contact" questionnaire to get to know you better, so I can focus my photography to be more suitable for your needs.

My website is under reconstruction as well!! I've pretty much looked at every aspect of my business and have given it an overhaul. The site is designed out already, now I just have to do all the html code for it...aka the hard part. It shouldn't be too bad, but in the meantime the old site will be up so you won't see any difference until it officially launches. It's going to be SO pretty (once again, the perk of being a design student), I wish I could post it right now, but coding takes a decent chunk of time, so unfortunately I can't. But trust me, I will make sure that everyone knows when it's finally done :)

Now for some AWESOME changes to Natty J Photography...I'M OFFICIALLY A REGISTERED BUSINESS!! Which means a lot more paperwork for me, BUT I'm SO excited about it. It was always my dream to own my own business growing up and now it's finally true :) Call me a nerd, but I can't wait to get my tax ID in the mail and file taxes and do all the business things. I've also got a Square so now I can take payments or deposits via credit or debit cards WITHOUT having to go through Paypal. I've had way too many issues with them and I don't want to put any of my customers at risk so, that's why I've choose to go with Square. They sent me a device so I can swipe cards right from my phone, or I can punch in the numbers for out -of-state clients. The last business item I've updated is my business cards. I ordered them from Moo.com, an amazing company with ultra cute items and GREAT customer service. Keep an eye out for the new ones :)

Lastly, I don't know if you've seen them, but I've seen lots of posts on Facebook lately about families getting their portraits done and one parent losing their life shortly after or they didn't have photos done and a family member's life was cut short leaving them with outdated photos as their only memories. It happens way too often and I don't want that to ever happen to me, so throughout last year I made both sides of my family do a family photo. And I had Shawna from Shawna Gerry Photography, do a family photo for my boys and I. I'm only 25 so I don't have a "family" of my own yet, but I do have my two dogs (which I'm sure you've seen before) Niko and Piglet. I adore them more than life itself. I've had clients in the past tell me that their family photos made them cry tears of joy and I didn't quite grasp it since I'm not technically a mother, but as soon as I saw the photo Shawna did, I understood.

This is my mother's side of the family, taken in April 2011. There's three generations pictured here :)

Unfortunately, this was at my Grandma Bell's funeral, I encourage all of you to get photos with loved ones while they're still here. Even if it's not professional, just do it.

Here's my dad's side of the family. Three generations in this one as well. There's other family on that side, but they weren't in the state at the time.

And here's my family picture!!! I absolutely adore it :) It's perfect in every way.

Derby Wifey & Her Fam | Jackson, MI Family Photographer

Family photos make me so happy and I was über excited when my derby wife asked me to photograph her family. For those of you who aren't involved in roller derby, a "derby wife" is pretty much your best friend in derby. So here she is with her brother and her daughter. Seriously you don't get cooler than this girl!!

Aww mommy & daughter :)