Star Portraits LLC...It's your turn to shine!

From My Home To Yours

2011-12-24T10:25:00.001-08:00

I won't be a blubbery, teary mess this year. : ) But please know with all my heart how much I love & am thankful for you all. Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas & a 2012 & many many years of good health, happiness, success & miracles. xoxo

From Ballet To Babies

2011-11-28T19:45:00.000-08:00

This beautiful, tiny newborn has no idea that many many years ago her mommy & I spent years of dance classes & sleepovers together. As we grew into high school I got to know the funny guy that would years later become my friends husband & this tiny girls daddy. Our life roads took different directions after graduation and we lost touch for many years, but what a special little gift from above to help reconnect us. This past week having had a play date with another couple girls we grew up dancing with...it amazes my heart to think how we use to sit & stretch before class & talk about the boys we had crushes on & for some of us we were lucky enough for those crushes to turn into our husbands & now we can sit & talk about our baby loves. I hope our babies will be blessed with such special friendships in life as well.

Camo Cuteness

2011-11-21T19:54:00.001-08:00

This is my 1st camo shot & I must say Alex is looking darn cute in his 6 month portrait. You know when you were a lil girl & you play with your dolls & dress them up in different outfits all afternoon. That's the kind of fun this session was. I felt like I was playing with Sandy's baby doll & having SO much fun & taking handsome lil pictures in the process. Thank you Alex for letting your mommy & I torture you. We love you!! : ) {{Hugs}}

New Star Alert

2011-11-05T17:49:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the lovely P family who have added another beautiful addition to their family with tiny Miss Alexis Cate! And giving Miss Sofia the grand title of Big Sister! I must say I have been spoiled the past couple months with super model babies who never fussed or needed a break the whole session! Even with 3 of my own I've never had such luck! I had yet another fun time & was honored to meet their new baby girl. I'm so happy for you guys! Thank you!! {{{Hugs}}}

Me & My Pops

2011-10-27T09:17:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was the 1 year mark of my Daddy's passing & a year ago the day before that was when I learned I was pregnant with my 3rd baby. One of the biggest pains in my heartache has been knowing that Gavin would never get to know how amazing & selfless his Pops was & that I would never have any pictures of the 2 of them together. ...well, never say never. I thought of this upon trying to fall asleep last night & then couldn't fall asleep because I couldn't wait to do it the next day. It's very hard to photoshop when your eyes are filled with tears. Every time I hug my baby I remember that half of him came from me which came from my dad & I try to feel like when I'm hugging Gavin that I'm hugging my Daddy too. Also, the cars in the pic were my dads. Gavin really seemed to like them

Catching Up With Cooper

2011-10-24T18:28:00.000-07:00

Why do I llove shooting the "K" Family?? Umm...because when I walk in I'm always greeted with a big hug from Cooper who says, "Hey, Crystal come with me!" haha!!! I don't know who she is, but I like the name. I even got a hug from Delaney who I haven't seen since she was a newborn. It's just crazy how time flies! Cooper jumped to being 4 years old already, Delaney is 2 & big sis Micayla will be driving soon!! Yes, of course they grow more beautiful each year...but this also means I'm getting older too. : / I had so much fun with them again & was honored to capture more memories for them & see how fabulously they have grown. Thank you!!! {{Hugs}}

For Sammy...

2011-10-19T10:23:00.000-07:00

Meet 2 dear friends of mine & their 2 sweet furry babies. Sammy & Toby are sisters who were in need of some memories captured. This was such a sweet, special & sad session...I'm even having a hard time writing the blog. Miss Sammy, the more furry of the pups does not have much time left with her beloved family. Sammy & Toby were lovingly adopted back when they were 7 or 8 years old & are now about 15 and have been spoiled much by their parents. : ) I know they will treasure their time with Sammy always & I thank them for allowing me to freeze a few of those loving moments in time for them. {{{HUGS}}}

Fox 8 Hot List

2011-10-18T05:55:00.001-07:00

Thank you! It's just in good fun, but the votes I receive always humble my heart.

http://fox8.cityvoter.com/star-portraits-llc/biz/159677

"Fall"ing In Love

2011-10-12T11:23:00.000-07:00

As you can see, I'm back to work! Yay! It's truly wonderful to be excited about & happy to get up & go to work. I started back with a very special session. Kim & Tim were my very 1st E-Session ( Engagement Session ) when I started out. Since then I have captured many more happy times with their family & they recently grew another client, baby Liam. I can't even begin to tell you how amazingly wonderful they are. I've heard the horror story from other photographer friends...of a corrupted memory card! We had a glorious day of weather & amazing shots AND Liam is the first baby that never fussed once the entire session or even need a break. I couldn't wait to go home & start working on them. ....The Halloween Horror story for any photographer that you never want to star in; "The Corrupted Memory Card!!!" Oh how I just stared at my computer in desperation & after many different types of recovery scans & I was just sick, sick, sick & I had to tell Kim & implore her mercy. This is when Kim saved the movie with a happy ending saying, "No worries, it gives us a chance to see you again!" WOW! So the movie ended with me kissing their feet another glorious shoot & Liam ( only 4 months old! ) once again not only being a happy boy the entire time, but also looking at the camera on cue. My kids don't even do that & they live with a camera in front of their face most days! Thank you Thank you Thank you Kim, Tim & Liam for being SO understanding & fabulous as always. You were a truly special & wonderful way to start my being back to work after maternity leave. I am very blessed to know you! {{ BIG Hugs!!}}

Lucy In the Sky With Diamonds!!!

2011-09-10T09:49:00.001-07:00

Happy happy birthday to my favorite diamond!!! My Lucy Carolena turns 3 years old today!!!

My New Star

2011-06-30T10:09:00.001-07:00

Please meet my baby boy Gavin Xavier. We welcomed him into our world this past Friday, June 24th at 6:14. 6 lbs 6 oz & 19 in. I had been worried about having a baby boy being that I'm use to my 2 beautiful girls full of sparkles & tutus. But my heart is just bursting & I can't stop kissing him...when I'm not taking pictures of him. I just don't want him to grow up. It's been a rough year. Between my dad being sick & passing & a rough pregnancy I will be taking the Summer to enjoy my last baby & time with my 1st baby before she starts Kindergarten this Fall. My husband felt that since we had a rough year & our family is officially complete he surprised us with our 1st family vacation ever & to the Outer Banks in September & since his family lives down there we will visit them before heading back to Ohio & it's also Lucy's 3rd birthday in September as well. So...I will be back in October refreshed & anew at your service. I miss you all & thank you for your warm words & patronage especially this past year. Lily & Lucy are over the moon for their baby brother &...( here come the tears! haha!! ) I know I've always been blessed, but I feel like the sun is shining a little brighter than it has in awhile & I am just feeling extra thankful. {{BIG HUGS!!!}} Please feel free to check out Gavin's album on Star Portraits Facebook page in the next day or so. Just learning to juggle 3 lil ones & working on his pictures has been good practice, but they will be up in the next day or so. xoxox http://www.facebook.com/pages/Star-Portraits/61920242138

Sweet Sofia is 2!!

2011-05-14T12:41:00.000-07:00

Watching these lil stars grow up never gets old. Our 1st session almost a year ago Sofia was not in the mood for pictures & even though she started out our 2nd session putting her lil hand up & saying, "No pictures." She really worked my camera & melted my lens. Her smile & personality were shining much brighter than the hot sun was this day. It was hard to pick an image for the blog, but I used this because I lloved her moms idea inspired by how Sofia likes to help her make pancakes & it was just too much fun! I was honored to come back for another session with their very photogenic family & simply awed to see what a polite & sweet tiny lady Sofia has grown into. Thank you to Sofia & her parents for a fun & special session before I start my maternity leave here soon. {{Hugs}}

Easter Wishes

2011-04-23T09:17:00.001-07:00

From my family to yours, wishing everyone a happy & blessed Easter weekend. : ) {{hugs}}

Happy Birthday Lily Lucinta!!!!!

2011-03-30T06:42:00.001-07:00

Can't believe my oldest baby is 5 today & will be starting kindergarten this fall. Time truly does fly when you're having fun. Happy Birthday my Lily bean! xoxox

Spring is getting closer!

2011-03-17T15:28:00.000-07:00

Allow yourself to be lucky everyday! : )

Yoga Warrior

2011-03-06T18:36:00.001-08:00

Meet this fabulous red head who had this brilliant idea of doing a yoga session...in the snow! I can officially say I've worn snow boots on the beach. Who knew how sinking the sand is in the winter & hats off to her for trying to do poses on what seemed like quick sand. Definitely different then a normal dry beach. Who knew? Of course, you know this is Cleveland where the weather can go from one extreme to the next instantly. I truly didn't think we were going to have the setting she envisioned as the snow has been gone for nearly a week & it's been rainy & mucky. I knew we were suppose to get a few flurries today, but was I surprised to wake up to a little over 2 inches of snow! I think God loves yoga sessions just as much as I do. He always seems to make sure the settings are just perfect. Come meet Carissa Moon for some amazing yoga classes at One Tree Yoga & Awaken Yoga in Euclid in the Shore Cultural Center. Thanks much again to Carissa. It was a freezzzing, but definitely fun shoot. And thank you again to my dear friend Lisa Fleming for this great referral. I did my 1st yoga portrait session with Lisa earlier this Summer at the beach & it was another amazing shoot & completely opened my eyes to the beauty & skill of yoga. Lisa is the owner of One Tree Yoga. Please feel free to check out her ethereal studio. http://onetreeyoga.org/index.htm

Tina's Tiny Ballerina's

2011-02-28T19:27:00.000-08:00

I was beyond honored & blessed to meet & photograph my dear friend Tina's preemie, newborn, identical twins Mia & Ava. They were SO beautiful & SO tiny I can't even imagine that they were smaller than this when they were born. They were simply stunning & breathtaking & beyond lovely just like their mommy. I adore both their parents & am crazy happy for them & that these lil girls have continued to grow & thrive. They melted my camera lens all morning & continue to melt my monitor as I edit the session & melt my heart as I can't stop thinking about the special morning I had with all 3 amazing girls.

Gavin Xavier Holt

2011-02-18T12:26:00.001-08:00

It's a boy! Terribly bummed that the only photos we were given was of this. : ( Ben said it is the most important shot of course. Lily told the ultrasound dr. she wanted a brother. Soon as he turned on the monitor he said, "It's a boy." We said, "How do you know already??" He said, "It's VERY obvious." To which Lily proudly replied, "I told you it was a boy." The girls are very excited & we got to stop at Target on the way home. If you could only see though! He looks nothing like his sisters, but he is gosh darn cute. : ) A lil hottie rock prince like his daddy. His due date is still an early firework of July 3rd, but I am always induced early. He appears to be healthy & we are feeling incredibly grateful & blessed. xoxoxo

Oops! Forgot to post. : )

2011-02-17T07:28:00.000-08:00

Make A Wish

2011-01-23T09:22:00.001-08:00

xoxo Happy Birthday to my Mom! xoxo

Congratulations!

2011-01-19T11:41:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to one of my oldest & dearest friends, Tina & her husband Mate who welcomed identical twin girls, Mia Sophia & Ava Gabriella a couple months early. They have been spending much needed time in the NICU, but have continued to progress beautifully & I am very very much looking forward to doing a "newbie"/newborn session for them....& kissing their tiny tiny faces off. BIG love to this new & beautiful family. You have such a special place in our hearts.

Believe In 20eleven

2011-01-04T06:59:00.001-08:00

Wishing us all a happy, healthy & amazing 2011!!

Holiday Wishes!

2010-11-24T09:50:00.001-08:00

With the holiday season upon us I wanted to say a heartfelt thanks for all of you, my friends/clients. You have repeatedly welcomed me into your homes to capture your memories. You have been there for me in person & in prayers during the difficult sickness & loss of my daddy the past couple months. Through these grateful tears I can't tell you how much of a blessing you all are to me. I knew when I officially started Star Portraits nearly 2 years ago now that I would love what I do, but I had no idea that all of you would forever have a special place in my heart. I look forward to capturing more memories for 2011 & wish everyone a happy & healthy holiday season & new year. {{{Warm Hugs!}}}

Some Positive News

2010-11-15T18:26:00.001-08:00

It's been a llong time since my family has had some good news. We look to be blessed with a lil firecracker this July 3rd. {{Hugs!}}

Teardrops

2010-10-26T19:51:00.000-07:00

Most of you know that after nearly 7 weeks since we learned my dad had "c" that I lost my daddy today. I am soo sincerely thankful from the bottom of my heart for your thoughts & prayers during this unbelievable time. {{Hugs!}} This is the last pic I had taken of him the 1st Sat in June at my Godbaby's 2nd birthday party. I hate that it's a pic of him smoking since that's ultimately what took him from us, but I always thought he looked the coolest like James Dean. He was truly a tough guy even till the very end. These lyrics are from our Father/Daughter dance at my wedding. He was a big John Mellencamp fan which is why I picked it & because it was slow enough & because I knew when I dimmed the lights in my room that last night of living at home I would miss not being able to kiss him goodnight each evening.

Teardrops will fall tonight

Tears I can't hide

Tears that I'd rather keep

deep down inside

Tears fall

A love is gone

Beyond these walls

And when I dim the lights in my room tonight

Teardrops will fall

Asking for prayers & positive thoughts...

2010-09-24T13:58:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,
I hope for your prayers & positive thoughts for my family & especially my dad. I can't believe I am having to post this.... Monday morning he had to go to the hospital & we found today that it's "c" & terminal. I am still praying & hoping for a miracle. I still need my daddy & his grand babies still need their Pops. I'm taking a brief step back till we see what's going on & such. My mom is also often the babysitter of my L's & of course she needs to tend to her best friend of the past 44 years. Besides my family, photography is a great love of mine & I don't wish to be away long. Thank you with all my heart for your prayers & for your understanding. Again, I am still praying for a miracle for my dads restored health & many many more cherished years with him here. {{{Hugs!!}}}

Lucky In the Sky

2010-09-10T07:15:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to my baby girl! Lucy Carolena turns 2 today. : )

Princess Adrianna

2010-09-02T05:38:00.000-07:00

Princess Adrianna was anti pictures, anti posing, anti pretty dresses because this special princess...just like her mommy likes to roll in a t-shirt, shorts & sneakers. And that's cool with me because this tiny princess is my sisters daughter & my gorgeous Godbaby!! She was my last model before I went pro going on 2 years ago now & we both have grown soo much since then. Even with all Lil A's craziness I still had a hard time trying to decide which cute image to put up for her blog spot. I'm not sure if it was my sisters idea or Miss Princess' demand to go to the library, but it was the cutest place for pics! Adrianna, thank you for allowing Auntie Star* to torture you. You have noo idea how much I love you & I wish I got to love you up more often. I am looking forward to seeing Lil A's prom picture years from now; a beautiful blondie in t-shirt, shorts, sneakers & corsage. Thank you again Tree & Princess A. xoxoxo

Happy Family

2010-08-26T10:58:00.001-07:00

I was really honored to do portraits for a friend I had worked with awhile back. We both ended up leaving our full time office job after our 2nd babies were born & though we keep in touch we haven't seen each other in almost 2 years? Since then she has welcomed another adorable addition to her family & I am just crazy tickled to see how beautiful her family is just like her inside & out. The whole family is picture perfect, fun & just really lovely. Thank you for a really great afternoon!

Love My "S" Star Sisters

2010-08-14T19:18:00.000-07:00

How do I love photography...let me count the ways! I love watching my lil star babies grow before my lens. I love to see my star families growing new lil stars. I'm soo honored to be able to watch such beauty thrive. I can't believe tiny Laney is already 6 months old & her big sis Maribeth will be 2 in a blink of an eye. It wasn't the hot sun that was melting me on this 90 degree summer day. ( though their mommy might disagree. haha! ) Those stunning blue eyes just melt my heart. : ) {{BIG Hugs!}}

Bella Bella

2010-08-02T20:02:00.000-07:00

Bella's mommy Danielle & I have been friends since we were about 7/10 years old & I still can't get over that we have real live dollies of our own now. Though she now lives in Texas she came back home to Ohio for a visit & to celebrate Bella's 5th birthday party at Lake Farm Park. Bella was a gorgeous birthday cowgirl & it was a Texas sized day of fun with gifts, wagon & pony rides, cupcakes & giggles! I was excited to be able to capture all the joy. Bella's birthday has a special place in my heart because it was the same day I learned I was pregnant with my Lily. Bella doll, I love you & hope all your birthday wishes come true! {{{Hugs!!}}}

Sunsational Senior

2010-07-27T12:14:00.001-07:00

Meet Cierra! An auntie to one of my fave stars Baby Jack & a Riverside High School senior for the class of 2011. We had soo much fun. Not only is she just gorgeous, but she's also extremely sporty and is an exceptional cross country athlete. There were soo many great shots from this session to choose from & I went with this one simply because it was just not your typical shot & you could see we were already having fun & it was just the beginning of the session. It doesn't matter if it's a baby session or a senior session. One of the things I love most about taking such pictures is seeing mommy's brimming with pride for their children. Being a mommy myself I totally get it. Congratulations Cierra! I'm sure you will be a star at everything you do in life. A special shout out to Sandy & Bob for this lovely referral. {{Hugs!!}}

Sun & Fun

2010-07-19T19:32:00.001-07:00

Great day at work...at the beach! & even better than working at the beach was being with my first E-Stars Kim & Tim & my little Sporty Stars Emily & Justin. Lake Erie was a lovely shade of blue & it wasn't too too hot. I always have a blast with Kim & Tim & her lovies can make me instantly go from laughing so hard to melting my lens with hugs for each other. Just a great great lil family. Thank you for another fabulous & fun time. {{{Hugs!!}}}

How Fast They Grow...

2010-06-28T12:08:00.000-07:00

My Star Twins Brady & Bella are 1 year old now & their personalities are shining through more & more. We didn't know till the day after our last session that Bella had a double ear infection & even though she did great she definitely made up for it this session. Grandma Barb also had me laughing while being on smile & snack patrol keeping these 2 cuties happy. It was a really nice change to do some outdoor shots & though we were lucky to miss the rain it was hot, hot, hot! Stephanie, Jeff, Brady & Bella & everyone I hope you all have a super fabulous Summer!!

One Tree Yoga

2010-06-23T11:48:00.001-07:00

Lisa & I have been friends since 7th grade & she's alllways been amazing! We recently had a fun session for her new yoga studio & I have a whole new respect for yoga. I really had a hard time picking an image for the blog so you will have to check back to my website after her session is complete as I will make it a Featured section. She was balancing upside down on pieces of drift wood, rocks, etc... & I could tell I wasn't breathing the whole time because I was just in awe. Lisa, thank you for this fun & unique opportunity & for always being such a great & special friend. For those of you who are looking for a great yoga studio check out her website or info here: Lisa Fleming, 200 R.Y.T. - Director, One Tree Yoga - www.onetreeyoga.org

Zach & Will

2010-06-02T19:25:00.000-07:00

Had a fun start to June with some energetic boys Zach ( 1 ) & his brother Will ( 3 ) & their great parents Mike & Riki. They were such handsome lil cuties & I'm so glad the rain stayed away for us. A nice start back to work after the holiday weekend!

Meet Sofia!

2010-05-18T11:41:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a referral from a neighbor of a client of mine I don't think I have ever met I was blessed with the opportunity to meet this new family & their beautiful, 1 year old daughter, Sofia! I chose this shot for the blog because it's not your typical posed shot & she just looks so shy & lovely! It was finallly a gorgeous day so we were able to do some outdoor shots as well. Thank you for inviting me to your home & I had lots of fun capturing your family & your lil girl with such gorgeous dark eyes!

Revolutionary Star

2010-05-17T08:39:00.000-07:00

Well, I've done out of state work for North Carolina & now I can add California to the list. I had a gentleman call me for the most unique job yet. He hasn't been here for about 20 years & wanted a capture of a family members grave to use for their family reunion this July. There was some research & hunting to be done & I was quite honored & excited when I finally located his grave. This special family member fought in the Revolutionary War!! Amazing & honored to be part of something so special. Thank you soo much to Mr. Garrit's family for a fun & meaningful opportunity!

Slater Sisters

2010-05-07T13:32:00.001-07:00

I llove this time of year. Outdoor pics! Yay!! How can you not llove your job when you get to be outside & take pics of beautiful babies!? : ) You might remember one of my featured stars Miss Maribeth! This lil beauty is now 18 months old & is accompanied by another lil beautiful star, her baby sister Lani! What fun dolls! Take a couple pictures, smooch a baby, take a couple pics, take another smooch! I just love these girls & their beautiful mom too. Thank you for making my job sooo much fun! = )

Family Fun!

2010-03-08T15:30:00.001-08:00

The winter always seems soo long, but babies grow soo quickly. Brayden & Bella who's 3 month session I did are now 9 months old!! A fun session not only with their parents, but with both sets of grandparents as well. Brady & Bella had such loving fans cheering them to smile & all are quite photogenic as well. It was a really fun time & I thank them for such a warm welcome into their home!!

A great end to January!

2010-02-01T19:48:00.000-08:00

Finished out the first month of the new year with little Hottie Hungerford - Jackson for his 9 month pics! Of course as with all my other creative mommy's, Sandy had some great great ideas for using his 4 Wheeler & Big Lego's. It is always a fantastic time when Baby Jack Jack has a session with lots of smooches in between outfit changes. He is growing soo much & is starting to handle the paparazzi torture much better and...is even starting to strike little poses & cute looks all on his own! Yes, he's starting to love the camera & the camera definitely loves Jackson!! xoxo

Amber Alert!

2010-01-21T09:11:00.001-08:00

Please pray for this 6th graders quick & safe return. My brother-n-law is the principal at Summit Academy in Parma & is very worried for her. He didn't get home till 9 last night & then was up half the night trying to help police. Please contact the Parma Police if you have anything that can help. (440)885-1234

Girl missing leaving school in Parma. Police are seeking assistance in locating a missing 12 year old female who apparently walked away from Summit Academy School 5868 Stumph Road around 3:20 pm Wednesday. Maya Fleckenstein is a black female who is 5'2", weighs 120 lbs & has brown eyes & brown hair which is pulled into a bun. She is further described as a "special needs student" who was last seen wearing a pink coat, green shirt, navy blue pants & a sweater. Although there is no reason to suspect foul play at this time, anyone with information regarding her whereabouts is requested to contact the Parma Police Department (440)885-1234.

New Year & Newborns!

2010-01-05T15:30:00.001-08:00

A great 1st Monday of 2010! I got a call from a lovely client for pics of her new daughter! New daughter I thought?? I listened to my voice mail again to make sure this is the same chica I worked with twice this past Summer & never knew she was expecting! Elizabeth Delaney K. is the baby sister to her big brother Cooper who's 18 month portraits I did earlier this year. She's a beautiful little doll & I was honored to be her paparazzi for the day! It was also great to see Cooper again & how much he's grown. He's become a lil chatter box & I even got a hug! Still, I will never get over seeing pieces of my heart hanging through peoples homes. It's such an amazing blessing! Thank you baby Elizabeth for being the 1st Star for 2010. {{Hugs!}}

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T07:09:00.000-08:00

I can't thank everyone enough for Star Portraits 1st year officially out to the public. {{BIG Hugs!}} with all my heart. Hope 2010 is filled with many happy blessings & good health for everyone!

Thank you!

2009-12-22T06:27:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas & a Fabulous 2010 to all my stars & their families & to my family & friends. Hope the season is full of magic! {{Love & Hugs!!}}

Star Portraits In North Carolina

2009-12-09T12:42:00.001-08:00

My sister-n-law has asked me to do her family pics since a couple years before I decided to go pro. We usually make an annual trip down to Fuquay Varina, NC to visit my husbands family & end up taking tons of pics anyways. Rather than do the usual pics at home we went to a park where we did some lovely lake pics too. And yes...this was the end of November & nooo jackets needed down south! Sooo nice!!! Thank you Mandi, Johnny, Joey & Lexi for making me feel pro before I even went there. You make my heart feel super happy! xoxo

Giving Thanks!

2009-11-22T16:10:00.000-08:00

Ok, I will try not to cry..... Ugh! Too late!! : ) I can't thank allll of you enough for your business, your referrals & for your friendship. I had no idea when I put myself out there this past January that I would be blessed with soo many new friends! I really can't call any of you clients because you & your families have become soo dear to my heart. May all your beautiful families have a safe, healthy & blessed Thanksgiving! {{BIG Hugs!!}}

Another 1st Birthday Wish!

2009-11-15T07:20:00.000-08:00

Happy 1st Birthday to a very special Featured Star ~ Brayden! Thank you for being such a wonderful 1st baby boy for me to ever photograph! May all your wishes come true! {{Hugs!!}}

1st Birthday Wishes

2009-11-13T06:52:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday to a very special Featured star ~ Miss Maribeth! May all your wishes come true! {{Hugs!}}

Falling For Fall

2009-11-09T12:18:00.000-08:00

This was my 3rd opportunity shooting the Rinas family. Soo much of this Summer had been cold & rainy and this beautiful Autumn day was filled with sunshine & about 70 degrees!! I must say I am extremely impressed always with the photo shoot ideas that my mommy clients come up with to make them unique & their own. Karen's crazy awesome idea was roasting marshmallows!! How ingenious is that!? Not only did we capture some cute pics of that as well as leaf pile fun & playtime; it made it really hard to choose a pic for the blog. I went with this simply because it's a shot I've been dreaming of shooting for awhile & I reallly liked the way it turned out. It was soo cute & great to see that Luke & Jillian remembered me & how Jillian has grown into a tiny Gap model like her big brother. These kids are so photogenic you don't even have to tell them to pose. They will strike one for you including cute head tilts. I had SO much fun with them yesterday!!!! Keep watch on the Star Portraits website as they are a Featured family & this session will be added to their page. Thanks soo much to the Rinas family for having me again!!

Football Sunday!

2009-10-26T19:24:00.000-07:00

Back in April I did my 1st E-Session with a fabulous couple Kim & Tim & this Sunday was honored to meet her lovely & fun kids Justin & Emily to do some football & cheerleading shots. Thankfully it was a beautiful Autumn day which made it even more of a great great time!

Baby Jack is 6 months old!

2009-10-12T12:44:00.001-07:00

Little Hottie Hungerford is growing more handsome each day! His 1st Autumn & Halloween pics & of course cute boy pics with his big & little trucks & work boots. And after pics I got to hug him up some! Jackson is definitely always a fun fave of mine too shoot & he comes from a beautiful & loving family. More {{{Hugs!!!}} to Jack Jack, Sandy & Bob!!!

The bass player got married!

2009-10-11T13:14:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I was honored to be the photographer for a special friends wedding. Brian is the bass player from Second Shade ( & also plays in numerous other local bands ) & married beautiful, fun & fabulous gal Melissa! My 1st Autumn themed wedding & it was soo pretty! When everyone at the reception would clink their glasses Brian & Melissa always obliged with some super nice smooches! I just see unlimited happiness & blessings for this great match & I can't wait to see it all unfold for them. {{Hugs!! to Mr. & Mrs. Brian Ruven!}}

1st Star Portraits Contest!

2009-10-08T09:17:00.000-07:00

Location! Location! Location! Soo many great ones for the Spring, Summer & even the Fall if it's a warm enough day. Then comes the eternal Winter of Ohio. Sure a few outdoor shots can be done quickly before the worry of frostbite or camera malfunction. And...there's always a simple black or white background. Sooooo....the contest goes: Any ideas of a beautiful indoor location that is free to the public. 1st place winner wins a free Cd Session & 2nd Place wins 1/2 off a Cd Session. Have a feeling this contest will be a bust, but...Good Luck!!

1st Birthday Fire Trucks & Fun!

2009-09-29T20:46:00.000-07:00

So I've yet to advertise that I could shoot mini events like birthday parties & such though I've already had quite a few requests. My 1st has been for Colin Klein's 1st birthday. They are the wonderful neighbor's to the Schmitt Family & little friend Sammy who's pictures I did earlier this summer. For the end of September...& in contrast to what The Weather Channel predicted it turned out to be a beautiful day! There were so many fun captures I didn't know which to post. Then I figured this was the high light of the party & even from the smash cake shots I had a hard time deciding which ones to use. I liked these most I think because you can see the great love & amazement Jen & Jon have for their baby boy. Happy Birthday Colin & may every birthday wish come true!

Look Who Else Is Now 9 Months Old!

2009-09-19T19:30:00.001-07:00

Brayden's lil friend Maribeth is also an Ohio State fan & has also been a featured star since she was 3 months old. She's grown so much & she & I had the best baby gibberish talk during the shoot. An extra congratulations to her parents Elizabeth & Jarod! Maribeth will be a big sister come Valentines Day!! Many blessings to this growing & beautiful family!

Cliff & Jessica Wedding

2009-09-09T10:09:00.001-07:00

The weather too much this month has been rainy & chilly, but...not this past Saturday. Mr. & Mrs. Askew had a beautiful day full of warm sunshine! I was honored to capture their day filled with love. A simply lovely couple & I wish them them many years of wedded bliss!

Twin Stars!!

2009-08-31T18:33:00.000-07:00

Meet Bella & Brayden! I've always wanted to do a twin session & thanks to another referral from the Slater family I came across the honor of meeting the Stenger twins. I was completely in awe of them & of course have a huge respect for parents of multiples! Getting up in the middle of the night, diapering, etc...for just one baby is a challenge. Stephanie & Jeff have 2 beautiful blessings & I thank them for allowing their little ones to be my 1st Twin Stars!!

Look Who's Standing!

2009-08-30T19:29:00.001-07:00

3, 6 & now he's 9 months old already! Does this extremely handsome guy look familiar? Yes, it's Brayden! He has gone from just being able to lay there & look cute to completely standing on his own. Such a charmer & I always am excited for his sessions. Also because his mom has the cutest & special themes & outfits planned out for him. She even had crew members & baby wranglers helping me out today. A BIG thank you to 3 of Brayden's cousins. They were awesome! Soo proud of you Brayden! Michelle, you are a lucky lady.

Ariana

2009-08-17T11:57:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I had the absolute fun of doing our little neighbors 5 year pictures. The weather was crazy! On the way to a local park it was a torrential down pour, but passing thru a traffic light it stopped & was dry. When I looked in my rear view mirror I could still see how hard it was raining behind me. Thankfully the park remained dry though soo hot! Got a few beach snaps towards the end of the session & would have loved to do a few more if we had not been threatened with a fast moving black cloud & I feared for my beloved Nikon. I was nearly half way to my car running when I realized...I left my keys at the very other end of the beach!!! We beat the rain just as we pulled home, but my legs felt like jello. Besides the unpredictable Ohio weather Ariana was such a cut up! Another little one who likes to do her own poses & super cute head tilts & she just had me laughing.

Rock Princess

2009-08-10T20:13:00.000-07:00

So my baby Lucy turned 11 months old today! I can't believe next month will be a year already. It flew by! Today we did a spur of the moment shoot for her birthday party invites & thank you's. Her theme is Rock Princess. I hope when she's older & looks back that I might be considered even for a brief moment as a cool mom! Had to get big sister Lily in on the fun. Their lunch & nap time was interrupted & we were all beyond hot & sticky, but Lucy remained super happy & Lily was in toddler Vogue mode so I was really proud of them!

Senior Portrait Star

2009-08-06T12:17:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Chelsey & her mom Tammy for the beginning of a new portfolio for the galaxy of Star Portraits. I used this picture for the Blog simply because it screamed senior portrait, but...I can't pic a favorite or even 2 because the whole session rocked! Watch out world! She's a double threat! Not only is Chelsey beautiful she is also quite the academic & should graduate high school with 2 Associates Degrees!! Her parents must be soo so proud. I know I think she's fabulous & awesome & I hope my girls turn out just as wonderful! Very best & warm wishes to Chelsey ~ Class of 2010 &...Star Portraits 1st Senior Star! {{Hugs!!}} Keep an eye out for her completed session later to come.

The Hungerfod & Bille Family

2009-07-16T12:21:00.001-07:00

Just realized I was behind in my blogs. Sorry everyone! I have been busy thanks from a referral of the Bille family from their neighbors & previous family stars ~the Rinas family. I loved how mom, Erin coordinated her husband Kevin, 2 year old Camden & almost 2 month old Grant in blues which even matched many aspects of their home. The week before I also was soo excited to take my dear friend Sandy's 3 month portraits for Jackson Hottie Hungerford. He was a doll & is welcome to date either of my girls in the future. : )

Sweet Sam

2009-06-28T19:52:00.000-07:00

On a this past beautiful Saturday morning it was back out to the Hudson/Macedonia area. My fave! I met 1 year old Sam, his lovely parents Alan & Susie as well as their super accomodating neighbors, the Klines (sp?). Sam was not in the mood to have his picture taken, but I think his parents & I had a blast in all the cool set ups we had him in and...I hope deep down Sam really did have fun too. You can see he is a cute little guy & I was excited to do some shots with my new wooden blocks! Thanks Sam for being my 1st star with the name blocks!!

Sports Construction Group

2009-06-27T12:29:00.000-07:00

I happen to have done 3 family portrait sessions from this company & was honored & excited to be asked to shoot a special company day down at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Sport Construction Group had a big hand in building of the new stadium & in through the years the families in this company have grown. We did some group shots as well as shots of the younger generation playing on the field. It was a gorgeous day & though I'm not a sporty chic it's cool to say I've been on the field! It was especially nice to see how some of my lil stars have grown. Baby Grace, Cooper & his big sister, as well as Luke & Jillian!

2nd E-Session

2009-06-24T19:20:00.000-07:00

I've been emailing with Angela for awhile now so when it came time to do their engagement session today it was extra nice because it seemed like I've known her forever. Even though it was crazy hot we captured some great great shots & it was soo much fun. Some colorful Summer engagement portraits to preclude to their upcoming Winter wedding!

Lake Forest Country Club

2009-06-23T07:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I met little Michael & his mom Meredith. It was a beautiful...& HOT day, but Michael was one of the happiest little guys I've ever worked with full of smiles. They belong to a country club which provided many beautiful backdrops. Most of all it was just a really fun shoot & such a pleasure to meet them both!

Calling the Class of 2010!

2009-06-11T11:28:00.000-07:00

deviantart.com

Seniors...It's your turn to shine! Looking to add Senior Portraits to our constelation! All packages include:

An outdoor session

1 - 2 hours with unlimited wardrobe changes - time permitting.

Online proofing & blog spot

Minor retouching for blemishes & such.

Call or email for package pricing & the chance to share these special pictures with family & friends.

Another Growing Featured Star

2009-06-10T11:48:00.000-07:00

Brayden's little friend Maribeth is also now 6 months old. Take a look at her Featured page & see how she has grown since she was 3 months old too!

Growing Featured Star

2009-06-09T12:14:00.001-07:00

Brayden Cyrek...1 of my most special stars because he was my 1st baby boy to photograph. Not too mention an absolutely gorgeous little guy too! Check out his Featured page & watch how he has grown & his personality start to shine brighter from his 3 month to 6 month portraits!

Growing Grace

2009-06-06T06:49:00.000-07:00

Saturday I was honored to meet 1 month old Grace & her family & do a shoot at her daddy's greenshouse. The biggest & most beautiful I've ever been to called Urban Growers. We are so getting some flowers from their soon. They look so yummy! Grace had colic, but she really did a fabulous job. Her mommy & daddy should be very proud of her. The beautiful weather was also a plus in capturing some beautiful pictures!

Portrait Party & Referrel Savings!

2009-06-01T12:14:00.000-07:00

Had myself a very busy weekend this May thanks very much to Michelle & Elizabeth. Not only was I honored to come back & do Brayden & Maribeth's 6 month portraits after having done their 3 month, they also referred 3 of their friends. This also meant that Michelle & Elizabeth got a nice discount of their session! Alas, I started on Saturday in Hudson with Ian & his family referred by Michelle. A beautiful family & a beautiful day. The rain & warm weather held off till the very last moment. The following day was back out to Hudson & Macedonia to shoot Brayden who...seriously is growing more handsome as his little personality starts to emerge. The very same with my Maribeth who was next. Too cute & her mom had the set up of food & fun at her house where 2 other little darlings Addison who is 8 months who's family came up from Girard, OH & her cutie cousin Mason who is 1 month and who's family came up from Youngstown! It was fun & great that when 1 baby was off for an outfit change or needed a feeding; who ever was next was ready to go! Check back next week for Brayden & Maribeth's updated Feature section & see how much they've grown from 3 to 6 months! These moms became friends after they each lost a parent & found a special way to remember their loved ones in their portraits too making them so meaningful & a special keepsake for their children as they grow up. Thank you soo much again to Michelle & Elizabeth for all your referrals! {{{Hugs!!!!}}}

Happy 1st Birthday!!

2009-05-30T06:00:00.001-07:00

Happy 1st Birthday to my beautiful Godbaby, Adrianna Rose! I can't believe it's been a year already! Which means my baby girl will be a year old soon too. : ( Alas, Adrianna was sooo tiny when she was born & sported some preemie couture & has grown into such a big beauty. Do you not want to nibble that face up? I hope her 1st birthday is every bit as special as her! xoxoxoxo

Lucy's 1st Memorial Day!

2009-05-25T19:52:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a nice holiday weekend. God bless America

Kost Family Session

2009-05-12T18:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the Rinas family in Macedonia I got a chance to meet the Kost family & their 18 month old cutie Cooper. Another beautiful & fun day of work!

Special New Stars!!

2009-04-26T08:33:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to introduce 2 special new stars to the constellation of Star Portraits! I was extremely honored to to my 1st engagement session for Kim & Tim. The weather was gorgeous & how often can one say, "I had such a blast at work today!!" I had such a fun time that it wasn't till I got back to my car that I realized my pretty flats were pretty painful on my toes which look & feel like I had just taken a point class. Oh well...all the more reason for a pedicure! Alas, I could have done this session all day. Kim & Tim were soo great to work with. A fun couple with a super sweet engagement story too. Check back later to starportraitsllc.com for their complete session. There were soo many great poses & backgrounds it was soo hard to decide which one to use for this entry. Get out there & enjoy the summer weather in April everyone. You know there is still a chance for a snow fall here! ; )

The Heart of Lake County Magazine

2009-04-23T12:02:00.001-07:00

Thank you to Embers Custom Fireplace & Gas Products for using Star Portraits for their article in this months issue of The Heart of Lake County Magazine! They always use us for any of their photographic advertising needs. If you are ever in the market for fireplaces, grills, accessories or any type of gas product visit any of their showrooms located in Solon, North Olmsted & Mentor.

Happy Tax Day &....

2009-04-15T11:34:00.001-07:00

Happy 5th Birthday to Ariana & Happy 1st Birthday as a mommy to Sandy!!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T09:59:00.001-07:00

Hope everyone has a blessed Easter!

Casting Call!

2009-04-08T11:15:00.000-07:00

Looking to build our portfolio by adding a maternity section. Here is a wonderful opportunity for a Mommy To Be by being our model and as our thanks you will receive from the 1 hour portrait session:(2)8x10's, (3)5x7's & half off which ever package you choose for a baby session after your little bundle of joy arrives! Contact us to take advantage of this special time in your life!

Welcome Jackson Robert Hungerford!

2009-04-02T20:56:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to our wonderful friends Bob & Sandy on the birth of their 1st child. A beautiful baby boy born today, 4/2/09. God bless your new family! Jackson is a very lucky little guy! {{BIG Hugs!!}}

My Lily Is 3 Today!

2009-03-30T10:10:00.000-07:00

My oldest baby girl turned 3 years old @ 4:45 am. It's been an emotional week for me because I've had to realize that she really is no longer a beautiful baby,..but a beautiful little girl. It's been an amazing blessing since March 30th 2006 to see her grow & learn each day. She is soo much more beautiful & smarter than I had ever dreamed of since I myself was a little girl. Everyday she surprises me with some brilliant comment or action & just like her daddy; every day she makes me laugh. I love you Lily. You make my heart feel super happy. A million birthday wishes to my favorite flower. May every single one come true! <---Insert happy tears here! ; )

Crawford Portrait Session

2009-03-24T13:04:00.000-07:00

Sunday was a trip out to University Heights to take pics of a former high school classmates Jen Hargreaves-Crawford's little ones. Laney who is 2 1/2 & Sam who is 1 month. Both have a natural picturesque beauty & gorgeous eyes! Alas, I still can't get over that I'm taking portraits of high school friends families. Didn't we just graduate a couple years ago?? Time flies when you're having fun & this photo session was definitely a fun time. Congrats on your beautiful family Jen & Mike!!

Rinas Portrait Session

2009-03-18T20:23:00.005-07:00

The Rinas family was referred by one of my Featured Stars Michelle & Brayden Cyrek. It was such a gorgeous day filled with sunshine, warmth & smiles. Another great time out in Macedonia. Thank you Karen, Matt, Luke & Jillian for inviting me into your home! They too will soon have a Featured spot so keep an eye out for it!

Happy Birthday Terese

2009-03-12T12:30:00.001-07:00

A very special Happy Birthday to my little sister who turns the BIG 3-0 today! Though she can probably still pass for a young girl in jr. high. Have a great day chica. I love you! {{BIG Hugs!!!}}

2009-03-11T13:30:00.000-07:00

Well, I can't believe Lucy's 6 month portrait session went so well today considering she was up screaming & crying half the night & I still don't know why. But...don't tell Lily that her little sister has her own featured spot on mommy*'s website! Enjoy!!

OH!! Looking at the beautiful & bright colors of these pics get me excited for Spring. So don't forget to schedule sessions for your little ones & get portraits in their Easter outfits since you or maybe Nana spent the money on them or as the tree's start to blossom get some outdoor & updated pics of your family. Also...know of any high school students who will be graduating next year? Or any family members looking to capture wedding memories, but save some money. Please refer me AND...get yourself 20% off your next session with Star Portraits after your referrals session is complete.

Happy Birthday Lucy Carolena!

2009-03-10T08:18:00.001-07:00

I can't believe my beautiful baby girl is 1/2 a year old today! I'm soo blessed with 2 wonderful little girls & to have been home with them for the past 6 months. I Love Lucy! Or as Lily likes to tell people, "This is my sister. Lucky...Lucky in the sky" Because she stilll can't or won't say Lucy & we sing "Lucy In the Sky With Diamonds." So Lucky In the Sky will forever be her nickname. BIG kisses to my happy girls Lucky & Lillly.

Second Shade

2009-02-20T11:55:00.000-08:00

I've had a few requests for the music from my site. Second Shade has 2 cd's. The oldest & more mellow of the two is, "Searching For the Mellonheads" & the newest & more up beat music is from, "Alex". Both cd's are available for purchase and are $5 a piece.

2009-02-14T12:38:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day! Spent my morning doing a shoot for a girl I grew up with & the dearest friend in the world. I can already see that Emily & Lily will be pulling the same stunts Joanie & I did growing up to sleep over each others house just one more night. Alas, this is one family who is extremely photogenic and always has been. No fair! Love you Joanie, Cathy & kids! {{Hugs!}}

New Featured Stars!

2009-02-12T12:21:00.001-08:00

Introducing 2 beautiful new stars to the galaxy of Star Portraits! Brayden & Maribeth each have their own little Feature spot. Enjoy!

Brayden & Maribeth

2009-02-06T12:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I went out to Macedonia to meet up with an old friend, Michelle Sodee who I haven't seen since high school AND take pictures of her little man, Brayden Cyrek & her friend Elizabeth Slater's pretty, pretty little girl Maribeth. This was a 3 month portrait session for both & I LOVE babies so it was much fun & I enjoyed the little squeaks that the little models were making. Alas, I hope I captured some nice shots for these beautiful mommies to put on their desk for when they go back from maternity leave. Thank you Michelle, Elizabeth, Brayden & Maribeth for a nice afternoon. Here is just a sneek peek. Enjoy!

A Few More Thank You's

2009-02-04T12:01:00.000-08:00

Thank you to my friend Chris Spisak for creating a logo for me with my personality in mind. It's fabulous & I highly recommend him for any graphic design needs. He is very talented!

Thank you to Van's in Mentor for always being helpful in purchasing of my cameras & accesories & advice with printing or photoshop. I think every employee from Skip, Ron, Hillary, etc... has helped me with something every time I stop in. Thank you!!

Thank you to Pete Strman from View Point Media Group. He specializes in videography of weddings & is the official videographer for The Dance Theatre of Ohio. His insight into owning a business & having a business in the wedding industry was much appreciated & he's just a reallly nice guy.

Wow!

2009-01-27T12:17:00.000-08:00

My 1st blog on my 1st "official" website. I'm a bit overwhelmed by the building and beauty of it so please excuse any holes or hiccups you might come across on my new site as it is still a work in progress & a learning process as well. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. Please visit Star Portraits often!
Most of all...I must thank again my family & friends who have been soo supportive and encouraging of me in my photography over the months and years. ( <--input blubbering tears here! ) It means so much!
Thank you to my hottie husband for starting Star Portraits off with it's 1st camera & accesories back before we were even married, for his positive & negative criticism & business insight...& for allowing the funds for such things as this website.
And lastly, a BIG thank you to Rob Drago & RAD Productions. He was the photographer for Tina & Mate's wedding & I was completely blown away by his work & since then he has been a great inspiration, source of help ( he actually hooked me up with company for my website ), & a great fellow photographer friend. I'm just starting out & am at the bottom of the totem pole, but if you want a photographer at the very top RAD Productions is the place to go!