 My name is Jen, the owner and photographer for Swell Photography. I am in the process of re-entering the world of professional photography. I say I am in process because I am, and always hope to be learning new things and improving my skill level as my business grows with time. I say re-entering because, once upon a time before the world of an infant, a preschooler, and a tween, I was taking photos professionally. I found that after my 3rd child was born I just could not be a successful photographer and a great mom. I had to make a choice and concentrate on just one thing at a time. Obviously, I chose to focus on being great mom. My passion for photography began when my son Tristan was born 14 years ago. I fell in love with photographing my son’s sweet personality through each wonderful stage of his childhood. I love looking back at how Tristan has grown, from a fresh, curious baby to a strong, independent teenager. I have continued to love capturing those special moments with my son Miles and my daughter Ella. The time flies by so quickly and capturing Miles’ struggle to find a natural smile and Ella’s need to spread her arms and fly like a bird everywhere she goes is something that will not last forever; one day they will be Tristan’s age and they will be too cool to smile for a picture. Through the years I have been honored to take pictures of special events and milestones for my friends and family. Through their encouragement, my passion for photography and my love of children of all ages, Swell Photography was born. I love to give my clients the opportunity to hold on to the special moments in their families life. Whether you are welcoming a brand new baby into your family and you would like to capture those first sweet days or, you have a running, jumping flying toddler that brings new magic into your life everyday. Or, maybe you are helping your high schooler prepare to spread their wings leave your nest. Each milestone in your families life is special and I would love to help you capture your moments... naturally. I am so excited about this new chapter in my life. While I know my kids still need me to be a great mom, I am finding that as they grow I also need to teach them about following your dreams so you are able to live a full life that will reward you in many ways. Being a photographer rewards me in so may ways, I love capturing memories for families to cherish for a lifetime, I love the way it makes me think creatively and challenges me to keep learning and developing my skill. |
Photography Tip of the Month |
 Get Framed! There's no better way to give your home personality than covering your walls with favorite family photos! But we've all been there... staring down a bare wall with no idea where to begin! Which photos? In what frames? And how do you arrange them? First, RELAX! Here are a few tips to get you on your way! Tip #1: A single picture must be large enough for the wall on which it will be hung or you will create a desolate look instead of a warm, inviting one. Smaller frames have more impact when grouped together. Tip #2: Place your frames at eye level, usually five feet from the floor. If your room has high ceilings, hang them slightly higher. Tip #3: Create an interesting arrangement by displaying frames of varying shape and size. Hang frames both horizontally and vertically to add interest. Tip#4: Plan the layout of your frames before hanging, either using paper cut the same size as your pictures and placed on the wall, or by arranging them on a workspace or floor. Take it slow. Planning it out before you grab the hammer will avoid a smattering of extra nail holes in your walls (and a whole lot of frustration)! Tip #5: Not sure which photos to display? First, don't worry about the pictures themselves, or their 'compatibility' with the room. If you like the pictures, they will be perfect in any room! If you're worried about having a sense of unity, create one by selecting mats and frames in the colors and styles that fit your rooms decor. The frames themselves do not have to be identical to each other as long as they are compatible with the decor, as well as to each other. No work of art is more precious than your own family portraits, and they should be treated as such! The right framing and wall arrangement can turn any home into a premier gallery! |
Project of the Month |
Family Craft: People Magnets We've all seen cute magnets with your favorite cartoon characters; why not make magnets with your favorite real-life people? All you need are some extra snapshots and a few sheets of magnetic paper (one side magnet, one side sticky) from the office supply store. First, cut your photos into fun shapes by tracing a cookie cutter, or around the bodies like a paper doll. Peel back the adhesive cover on the magnet sheet and attach your pictures. Try to fit them close together to use as much of the sheet as possible. Lastly, cut the pictures out with the magnet still attached, leaving no magnet showing around the edges. Attach to your fridge and enjoy! Your new friends will be there to hold your great artwork and greet you every time you get a snack! |
September Promotions |
 Book your family session for September or October, before August 31st and you will receive 25% off your session. Let's talk about how you can get a family photo session for $25.00. It is called a "mini" session, and all you need is 3 friends that are also looking for a great deal on a family portrait. Schedule a mini session by August 31st for your family and 3 of your friends and you will receive your session for FREE! |
www.swell-photography.com |
