I am a down to earth kinda gal with a camera! I love to shoot anything and everyone, not something you can typically say about your job. I am from a small beach town near Jacksonville, Florida, and wouldn't have had it any other way. The beach is my second home--my retreat and inspiration. I have been called charismatic yet laid back---its a wonderful blend! My style includes bold colors, and fresh black and whites--classic meets contemporary with a twist of that beach lifestyle~
This past Friday I got to spend the afternoon socializing and working with two of the most amazing teenagers ever. Maddy and Steven definitely had chemistry in front of the camera lens as well as each other. Their personalities came through loud and clear throughout our session and every time I suggested something new for them to try they were ready and waiting!
Maddy is beyond gorgeous with her long blonde locks and eclectic fashion sense. She was able to bring Hollywood glam into urban grunge and for that I love her.
Steven meshes emo and rockabilly into his own style and on his own terms. I loved that he wants to learn the art of tattooing. He came to the session with his own designs decorating his arms and hands. Watching him cruise through downtown Hampton on his gravity board holding his guitar without a care in the world made me wish I would have had that type of confidence and happiness growing up.
Working with these two separately as well as together truly made my day. I couldn't have asked for better moments than the ones I caught with them. Not only do they tune out the world around them, they fall easily into a comfortable place with each other.
I can only hope that these two continue to pursue their art and interests. They are both severely talented and just all around good kids. I truly can't wait to go out with them again!
This year has brought so many changes and unexpected gifts to Erin Colleen Photography. Not only did ECP change it's status from part time to full time, ECP also launched it's intimate side, "Gypsy Boudoir!"
Looking back on the past year I feel like I've been on an amazing roller coaster ride. I've experienced the highs, the lows, the unexpected twists and turns, and the like. This past half year since going full time has been one of the most fun, inspiring and challenging times I've had.
For those of you that have been on this journey with me from the very beginning, thank you for sticking with me so long! Some of you might just be reading this blog for the first time, I promise to keep writing, and adding to it. I ask that you give me time to prove that I wil make this blog a success. Part of the beauty of my job is that it's never ending and will always {hopefully} inspire other people.
Yes, it's a glamorous job sometimes, but it's also a lot of hard work, dedication, long and odd hours, and constant creativity. This job isn't for everyone--to be honest, sometimes I get scared about keeping up-- but in my heart I know it's the perfect job for me--I just have to stay diligent. I'm not sure why I'm calling it a "job" because I love what I do and haven't been this happy in a long time. When people love what they do it's not really a job at all, it's something they look forward to each and every day. I wish everyone actually did what they love to do. Imagine what the world would be like...
Speaking of next year, I have even bigger goals for ECP. Why? Because I'm the girl that cannot sit still. I get anxious when I have nothing to do. I'm never satisfied with my work--I am constantly seeking to improve, but I think that's the way all great artists live. Without goals, we wouldn't have a purpose for doing what we do. For that, I am grateful. Grateful that I have a loving and supportive husband who pushes me to set and reach my goals--Friends and family who encourage, critique, and support me as well--and clients who come back time and time again to work with me.
Thank you to ALL who have supported me on this journey. You constantly remind me why I do what I do :)
Many times I hear "youre so much more expensive than ~insert chain store here~!" I know that my prices are a bit higher than those stores, but I hope that by contacting me; you, as the client, recognize that the experience and product are much better than at that chain store. I take the time to counsel my clients before and after the session if needed. We talk about what products they are interested in, what would look good in their home, or even what to wear beforehand. I work very hard to make sure everyone is attentive and looking toward the camera. I work to build a relationship with the children and families that I photograph. I know that I am only skimming the surface as to why there is a significant difference in value between my business and chain retailers---Please take a moment to visit the Professional Child Photographer blog---they have provided a wonderful educational page to explain why custom photography really is that much more valued and in turn, why it does cost a little bit more.
Good Golly Miss Molly! This gorgeous girl will be graduating this year and all I can say is look out world! Not only does she maintain excellent grades, she races dirt bikes and four wheelers too! She is the epitome of sophistication and class meets tom-boy! This girl knows how to clean up and get down in the dirt and I love her for it!
This session was actually from earlier in the year, but I am only now getting around to really sharing anything from the start of 2010. All I can hope for is a set of just as adventurous and fabulous seniors to help me start 2011 with a bang!
If you are struggling to find the perfect gift for friends and family why not consider a gift card from Erin Colleen Photography! Gift cards are the perfect gift because you can redeem them at a later date AND with my Cyber Monday deal you will get 2 for 1 cards with ever $50 you spend!! That's right, spend $50 and get $100 to use toward prints, boutique products or digital negatives.
There is no limit to how many gift cards you can purchase. Contact Erin by email at info.erincolleen@gmail.com or by phone 904-251-5146 to purchase yours today!
Hey Ladies!!!! How desperate are you for the perfect gift? Has your guy been nice enough to deserve something naughty? Forget the golf balls and ties, and join us for a desperate housewives boudoir session!
These sessions are going to fill up quick! 2 photographers for the price of one!! Book now to reserve your spot! Contact info.erincolleen@gmail.com for more details!
Happy Birthday Baby P! 5.5 lbs of grins, giggles and perfection. Mommy and Daddy are sure to be glowing with pride as they enjoy waking up to this gorgeous little man each and every day. I remember Audrey contacting me a few weeks before P. was scheduled to arrive. Even then, I could sense her excitement through our phone calls and emails--it was infectious. I found myself waiting for the notice that he had arrived and they were ready to introduce me. Finally that day came--I was driving on I-64 when the phone rang. Luckily a girlfriend was with me and able to answer my phone. When she repeated who the caller was I couldn't stop grinning to myself knowing that I would be heading home to set up the studio space to welcome a brand new miracle.
I couldn't have asked for a better baby either! P. was such a sleepy little one who didn't mind when I moved him, picked him up, or curled him around. Even when he opened his sleepy little eyes, he simply looked, took a breath and fell back into an easy sleep. Such a gorgeous little baby boy for two amazingly gorgeous parents.
Congratulations again Audrey and Chip---your little boy is a precious miracle.
Posts
