STUDIO REFUGE PHOTOGRAPHY BLOG

New Blog- studiorefuge.com/blog!!

2011-03-28T23:37:00.003-05:00

The new and improved Studio Refuge Photography Blog will now be found at
studiorefuge.com/blog. Check it out!

Check Facebook for Updates

2011-03-06T19:59:00.004-05:00

Hi Studio Refuge Blog Friends,
I've been staying busy and have not posted on my blog in a
while. I wanted to invite you to view the latest photo sessions at facebook.com/studiorefuge.
I'm in the process of completely updating my blog layout and design, stay tuned for an all new blog! I'm also changing domain hosting in the next few weeks, always a little scary if I'll get emails.
Use studiorefuge@gmail.com as backup if you
don't hear from me within 24 hours.

Atlanta Photography | 2011 Studio Refuge Winter News

2011-01-26T17:29:00.003-05:00

Goodness, winter is just as busy as fall and the holidays! I wanted to share some winter news and encourage you to book ahead, weekends are filling up. You'll read below that there are incentives for you to share information about Studio Refuge with friends. Hop on my the Studio Refuge Facebook page, become a fan/friend and invite friends to join!

Looking forward to upcoming sessions and creating a custom session for you!

~ Julia

Atlanta Family Photography | Pearson Family Session

2011-01-19T16:55:00.005-05:00

I photographed my dear friends, Cobb and Mecall and their beautiful daughter, Lucy. I was lucky to have Honey, Lucy's also beautiful grandmother. She came fully equipped with songs, rhymes and dancing reindeer to help get lots of smiles.

Lucy spotted Santa! He was taking pictures with kids at a nearby store. He is a handsome Santa, in fact I told him that and then felt embarrassed after like I had just hit on him.

Card Front

Card Back

Atlanta Children's Photography | Bennett: Snow Days

2011-01-12T10:56:00.006-05:00

I never find time to post on Bennett's official blog and he's already a year old! Time flies.

Atlanta has been at a rare, frozen stand still since Sunday night. This was Bennett's second

experience of snow, the first when he was a newborn last year. We've enjoyed being trapped,

it's nice to have things slowed down and be together as a family.

Bennett had a glazed look when we first ventured out. I'm sure it was very confusing to see everything covered in cold,

white stuff. We bundled him up until he couldn't move his arms, which is the mom gage for

being snow worthy. He got into it once my husband, Ryan tossed some snow on him.

I do miss doing photos sessions, but look forward to picking back up when everything thaws. I am happy to have backdrops, lighting and prop options for indoor

session too.

Atlanta Couple's Photography | Julia + Shone "Just 'Cause" Couple Session

2011-01-03T00:39:00.007-05:00

I'm a lucky girl because I love my job and I get to photograph cool clients like Julia and Shone. They were natural and chill and made it easy to capture their personality.

I was giddy when they wanted a urban setting with graffiti and railroad tracks. I love scoping out spots around downtown- this one was beautiful in a grungy, colorful, worn kind of way.

Atlanta Family Photography | Andrew Family Session

2011-01-02T23:21:00.007-05:00

I had so much fun photographing the Andrew Family, my face hurt from laughing. Such a sweet idea, they surprised their parents at Christmas with their photographs. We did an indoor studio session at their place and then hopped a fence and took some shots on railroad tracks.

Atlanta Family Photography | Kerney Grand Session

2010-11-15T13:43:00.004-05:00

I love the Kerney's idea to do a photography

session with their grandaughters!

The girls got to play around in the park and spend time with their grandparents while I documented their time together.

Atlanta Family Photography | Butler Family Session

2010-11-05T20:10:00.004-05:00

Atlanta & Memphis Business Photography | Local Gastropub Memphis

2010-11-05T10:45:00.011-05:00

Why was I photographing in Memphis you ask? It's my hometown. I visit often and had the chance to get some shots of Local Gastropub, 95 South Main in Memphis. They recently updated their menu and it's yummy!

They'll be also updating their website: localgastropub.com with my images.

©Studio Refuge Photography

Atlanta & Memphis Family Photography | Ellis Memphis Fall Session

2010-11-02T08:51:00.012-05:00

Trollies, Pebbles and Volcano to the rescue.

It's always nice to return home to Memphis to visit my family. I was able to photograph my highschool friend and her boys on South Main Street downtown. From the character of the architecture to the colorful trollies, it's a unique spot for sessions.

My style of photography is more candid with an artsy, modern twist. I always tell clients to bring a favorite toy, book or bubbles. I allot plenty of time to warm up and take breaks so sessions are laid back and personalities comes out naturally. We sing songs, talk about favorite things and try to bring out fun interactions.

We were able to use a simple game of tossing pebbles, a little help from Volcano, the stuffed puppy dog, and trolley cars to capture laughs and smiles.

Atlanta Family Photography | Woolley Fall Session

2010-11-02T08:36:00.008-05:00

Atlanta Children's Photography | Dreska Fall Session

2010-10-12T09:15:00.002-05:00

Atlanta Baby Photography | McCartney Fall Session

2010-10-09T10:04:00.004-05:00

New Mobile Site on StudioRefuge.com

2010-09-23T23:32:00.004-05:00

Now you can browse StudioRefuge.com through your phone. Try it out and let me know what you think! Just select the mobile image on the homepage.

The Atlanta Fall Special Session is close to full. Please contact me if you'd like to get the last spots: julia@studiorefuge.com.

Here's some photos of where the session will take place.

I have an vintage, aqua, Kroehler mohair chair that I will be debuting for the sessions. I'm so excited. I couldn't resist "her" at my new favorite vintage store, Ice Box, on Main Street in downtown Chamblee!

In fact, I am starting a "furniture fund" for a red, Kroehler mohair couch that I would love to get. You can contribute to the fund by booking a session ;)

©Studio Refuge Photography

Done bumming on the beach

2010-08-25T21:11:00.005-05:00

Hi, I'm back from the beach with my almost 8 month old, teething, trying to crawl, beach bum baby. I'm ready to book more sessions! Look over there on the right ----->

I've got the dates listed for the Special Fall Session Packages. Get your spot! Contact me at julia@studiorefuge.com.

LONDON'S SNEAK PEEK!

2010-08-09T23:38:00.011-05:00

I had the opportunity to photograph sweet London when she was 9 months old. Time flies, she's 1 year and a half now. Still cute as can be with a great personality and fashion sense, both thanks to her parents! I need to go shopping with these girls!

Preview of giveaways!

2010-07-28T16:50:00.051-05:00

Which are your favorites?! Post in comments!

Here's a preview of the businesses offering giveaways!

(possibly even more being added)

Specifics will be listed on facebook with each giveaway.

Photo is not necessarily the item being given away.

In many cases, businesses are willing to customize sizes and designs for the winner!

Please check out their pages. Lots of cool items.

These are ways to get entries on facebook.com/studiorefuge:

Must Like and Follow Studio Refuge to enter.

1) Like their facebook page

2) Follow their blog

3) Share giveaway to your facebook wall

4) Send message to all your friends

5) Post on your blog about the giveaway

6) Copy/Paste blog button to your blog layout

Each day will be a different giveaway. Simply comment how you plugged Studio Refuge, giveaway and/or business. Each plug counts as an entry!

Some days there may also be interactive things like answering questions or tagging photos.

For instance: What's your favorite color?

You comment: Green. I shared the giveaway on my wall and sent a message to my friends !

(You get 2 entries!)

Names will be drawn at random. You can enter as many giveaways as you would like.

Studio Refuge Photography

(Gift Certificate and Fall special session package!)

web: www.studiorefuge.com

facebook: www.facebook.com/studiorefuge

blog: www.studiorefuge.blogspot.com

Baby Pop Designs

web: www.babypop.com

facebook: BabyPop Designs

blog: babypopdesigns.blogspot.com

twitter: twitter.com/babypopdesigns

Debi's Creations

facebook: Debi's Creations 18

blog: debiscreations18.blogspot.com

etsy:www.debiscreations18.etsy.com

Rae Gun

facebook: Rae Gun

blog: http://raegunwear.blogspot.com

etsy: http://raegun.etsy.com

CozyBlue
facebook: CozyBlue

etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/cozyblue

My Belle Boutique

facebook: facebook.com/mybelleboutique09

blog: mybelleboutique.blogspot.com

etsy: http://www.kikiwags.etsy.com

Swak Designs

facebook: Swak Shop

etsy: www.swakdesigns.etsy.com

Nite Owl Designs

facebook: Nite Owl Designs

twitter: www.twitter.com/niteowldesigns

etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/niteowldesigns1

Polite Paws Dog Training

facebook: Polite Paws Dog Training, LLC

Bae Bae Design

etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/baebae

Solis Boutique

etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/solisboutique

Baby Night Night

blog: babynightnightboutique.blospot.com

etsy: www.babynightnight.etsy.com

That's Too Cute Boutique

facebook: That's Too Cute Boutique

etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/thatstoocuteboutique

Simply J Crochet

facebook: Simply J Crochet

web: www.SimplyJCrochet.com

etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/simplyjcrochet

Bubby's Handmade for Babies and Kids
facebook: Bubby's Handmade for Babies and Kids

blog: http://threeriversjustlivin.blogspot.com/
twitter: http://twitter.com/jessierivers
etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/jessierivers

Connor Inspires Amy

etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/ConnorInspiresAmy

Ritzy Rugrats

facebook:http://www.facebook.com/ritzyrugrats

etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/ritzyrugrats

Tiny Belles Boutique

facebook: http://www.facebook.com/tinybelles

blog: http://tinybellesboutique.blogspot.com

twitter: http://twitter.com/TinyBelles

etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/TinyBellesBoutique

MD Sparks Jewelry

facebook: MD Sparks

etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/MDsparks

Lil Sha Bebe

etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/lilshabebe

and possibly even more.....

Atlanta Baby Photography | Baby Owen Session

2010-07-27T23:41:00.003-05:00

I love my nephew, Owen! He's got the cutest cheeks. Love his parents too. They carry on the long Jones tradition of dry humor and sarcasm. Our kids are destined to be characters!

Now begins the longest photo blog entry of all time. I couldn't edit down, I tried.

Atlanta Photography| Products: I LOOOOVE GALLERY WRAP CANVASES

2010-07-20T17:00:00.004-05:00

Gallery Wraps are amazing! Instant wall art.

A gallery wrap canvas is a photograph printed on a textured canvas and wrapped around a wooden frame. Gallery Wraps are available in 1 in. to 2 in. width in a wide variety of sizes.

Voila, ready to frame or hang and/or sit and look at.

Atlanta & Memphis Baby Photography | Baby Ava & Family Session

2010-07-17T14:30:00.002-05:00

I love my job! How crazy cute is Ava. She and Bennett are both 6 months - only 9 days apart. Ava will have a little sister or brother arriving in February.

I'm so glad I was able to photograph my friend Sophiah, her husband, David and sweet Ava while I was visiting my family in Memphis.

I'll be back in the fall to do my special sessions. Let me know if you'd be interested and I'll send you information about when and where.

Atlanta Event Photography | Anya's Korean 1st Birthday ( Dol )

2010-07-16T23:16:00.008-05:00

Had a really fun shoot for Anya's 1st Birthday Event. It was neat to experience Korean birthday traditions. She was so adorable in her Korean dress, a hanbok. Her super cute friends joined her in the celebration.

Atlanta Photography | Products: HI RES DVD's

2010-06-27T11:21:00.013-05:00

HI RES DVD's included with Event and Wedding Packages

Wedding Packages also include an engagement session at the location of your choice.

Summer Special: $50 OFF Portrait Session DVDs when you book a session before August 15! Special can be used for a session after August just has to be booked before then. A great opportunity to take advantage of this special for fall/holiday sessions.

Atlanta Photography | Products: Custom Designed Foam Mount Prints

2010-06-16T11:47:00.009-05:00

I love creating custom orders and I really love foam mount prints!!
I can custom design your multi print with any text, pattern and number of photos.

I offer a wide variety of sizes from square to rectangle formats. The vertical multi print is 10"x30". The portrait is mounted on 16"x20". The prints are mounted on 1/2" thick, unbendable Gator foam. It's excellent for leaning on a shelf or ready to frame.
This was create for Anya's Korean 1st Birthday, Dol.

Atlanta Children & Family Photography| Audrey, Shiloh & Family

2010-06-06T22:41:00.006-05:00

Loved shooting a session at a nature preserve, pretty setting and so peaceful. Here's sweet Audrey, her pup, Shiloh and they're mom and dad. The shoot was fun, relaxed and laid back which made it easy to capture sweet, natural moments. Even Shiloh was easy going in front of the camera.

Atlanta Children and Family Photography | Anya's 1 year old Session

2010-06-04T00:09:00.006-05:00

Anya is such a cutie pie! She had me smiling and laughing along with her. Gotta love that gummy, baby tooth smile. Look forward to photographing her Korean 1st birthday, Dol in a couple of weeks.

Images may not be downloaded, shared, or printed without permission

Atlanta Wedding Photography | Sarah and Andrew's Decatur Wedding

2010-05-24T23:38:00.008-05:00

Atlanta Photography | Mother's Day Gift Certificates

2010-05-05T12:46:00.007-05:00

Give your mom, mother- in - law or grandmother the perfect gift: A photo shoot for your children or your family. Surprise her with a Studio Refuge Gift Certificate!

Not only will you have a really fun time during the shoot, but you'll also have some really great memories every time you look at your photographs.

Contact me to set up your shoot and I'll email you a gift certificate to give her on Mother's Day.

Atlanta Engagement Photography | Sarah and Andrew's Engagement Session

2010-05-01T23:19:00.008-05:00

I had such a fun time on my shoot with Sarah and Andrew! Made me want to go hug and kiss my hubbie when I got home. We had an amazing setting at one of my favorite parks in Atlanta. I'm lucky to also photograph their wedding this month.

Did you know, a free engagement session is included in the wedding package plus all you wedding photographs on a CD?!

Images may not be copied or shared without permission

Atlanta Senior Photography | Courtney's Senior Session

2010-04-16T23:31:00.011-05:00

The weather and setting were perfect for Courtney's senior shoot. She will be starting new college adventures in one of my favorite cities, Nashville, TN. It was a beautiful spot for a photography session; gorgeous trees and an old, rusty bridge frame on the Chattahoochee River. Brave teenagers took turns jumping off the bridge (i.e, large metal frame with nothing under their feet) into the chilly, green river. Thankfully, the shoot did not require my fear of heights to be challenged! Courtney is a natural beauty in front of the camera.

Atlanta Baby Photography | Bennett 3 Month Spring Photos

2010-04-13T11:11:00.009-05:00

I am loving the spring flowers and spring weather minus the pollen.

Here's the latest Bennett photo. I'm updating his blog with new pics too.

He's 3.5 months now. I'll be posting some spring photo sessions soon.

Currently booking weekend sessions at least a month out. May is getting busy quick.

Atlanta Photography | New Website is Up!!

2010-03-01T23:36:00.007-05:00

Same address, new site. Flash is required. Would love to hear your feedback!
Check it out: www.StudioRefuge.com

Atlanta Baby Photography | Bennett 2 Month Photos

2010-02-28T13:45:00.004-05:00

It's crazy how fast 2 months has passed. My little baby, Bennett, has changed so much- smiling, cooing and interacting more and more.

Atlanta Photography | Spring is Near, I Hope!

2010-02-22T21:55:00.010-05:00

Looking forward to spring photography sessions and warmer weather! I'll have the new StudioRefuge.com website up the beginning of March.

My new postcards have arrived. If you'd like some mailed or emailed to you to pass around, let me know and I'll send some your way: julia@studiorefuge.com.

Here's a link to my Atlanta Parent Directory Phonebook online ad. I'll have a photo ad in their free phonebooks that will be out in several locations around town.

I'll also have my photographs hanging at Hippo Hopp in Atlanta. I'll be available for parties there.

Atlanta Newborn Photography | Introducing Bennett Ryan Jones

2010-01-20T19:28:00.006-05:00

Our little boy, Bennett Ryan Jones, arrived December 30th, 7 lbs 7 oz, 21 inches. Hard to believe he's already 3 weeks.
Bennett's official blog will be babysweetcheeks.blogspot.com, while this blog will remain my blog for portrait photography. I'm looking forward to upcoming shoots starting in February and getting my new website up.

Still waiting....

2009-12-23T04:12:00.004-05:00

So much for being on bed rest for two months to prevent our wee one from coming early. I am still impatiently waiting. May I add, huge, swollen, sleepless, painfully waddling and impatiently waiting. I'm 37 weeks, some odd pounds heavier (I will never tell- let me just say the kid loves his cow). He's been measuring 2 weeks ahead- 7.5 lbs this week and head and belly in the 90th percentile, God save me! I'm praying the doctor will whisk me to the hospital at tomorrows apt. to have my Christmas baby. Otherwise, I may cry, secretly hoping that will help the whisking.
We can't wait to meet our little boy! We've even resorted to bribery. A cut of the tax break for 2009, he can cone out and eat the same solid foods he's been consuming in utero- burgers, break and bake chocolate chip cookies. I've tried all the spicy or inducing food possible- egg plant parmesan, red curry, chilli, jalepenos and just straight up hot sauce on everything. He just taunts me with a dance.
Then theirs begging and pleading, swim to the light, are you trying to torture me?

THE HOME STRETCH...

2009-11-27T22:50:00.016-05:00

This coming week, I'll begin my 9th month of pregnancy. I was planning to be "officially" on maternity break from photography in December. Our little man was wanting to arrive earlier than expected so, the doctor has slowed me down until he arrives.

My due date was Jan. 10th, but it's looking like he'll be here before Christmas. I am planning on getting back into photography in the late winter/ early spring. I am lucky I am able to do photography on weekends and still get to take care of our little guy/official Studio Refuge model. Thanks for your prayers and encouragement as we wait for his arrival. We are very excited to meet him! In addition to this blog, I'll be starting a baby blog where I'll get to share the joys and sleep deprivation of motherhood.

Looks just like his daddy

Custom Press Printed Holiday Cards

2009-11-18T13:38:00.006-05:00

Order your holiday cards from Studio Refuge. Cards are completely customizable: Colors, Text and # of photos can be designed according to your preference.

Cards are professionally press printed on high quality card stock. flat 2 sided or 4 sided folded available. Visit Studio Refuge for the full assortment. I can work with your own photos, too. Turn around is fairly quick. Birth Announcements, Christmas, Hanukkah or even New Year's messages can be added. Here's an example of a client's card for this year.

We'll be waiting until our little boy arrives to send out a Birth Announcement/Holiday card. Every year I've photoshopped our dogs in our holiday cards, I don't think they'll miss having to pose or wear funny hats. I used the blue and tan argyle card for this photo.

Atlanta & Memphis Children's Photography | Allison Family Session

2009-10-31T11:37:00.013-05:00

I had the best time with the Allison family on their farm in Arkansas. They live just over the bridge from Memphis on the flat delta planes. The fields were a beautiful, gold color from the soy bean leaves changing and powdered white in spots from cotton fields starting to bloom. This will be my longest sneak peek thus far and doesn't even scratch the surface of this little guys cuteness.

Images may not be printed, copied or shared without permission.

Brown Session Sneak Peek

2009-10-23T12:05:00.008-05:00

I photographed a fun couple and their pup, Sophie, in Piedmont Park. We shared mid-south roots. They grew up in Mississippi and I grew up nearby in Memphis. This sweet husband pampered his wife for her birthday with the coolest cowboy boots and a photography session.

Images may not be printed, copied or shared without permission.

Shah Engagement Session

2009-10-22T09:09:00.005-05:00

I had the opportunity to photograph my dear friend from college and her sweet fiance, now husband. He planned out their whole engagement in detail and asked her to marry him in a hot air balloon, how romantic!

Images may not be printed, copied or shared without permission.

Baby Cheeks Sneak Peek

2009-10-07T17:30:00.005-05:00

How cute is she?

Images may not be printed, copied or shared without permission.

Bella Italia

2009-10-03T08:03:00.011-05:00

I've been meaning to post my Italy photos from our trip this summer. I took so many photos, I've been editing them a little at a time. I finally got some printed and am looking forward to hanging them on our blank living room walls. My other photographs and paintings have been hanging in my brother's restaurant in Memphis, so our walls have been very bare.

Here are some of my favorites. I have several others on my SR facebook page: www.facebook.com/studiorefuge

Rome: Cafe, Pantheon, Lady in a window

Florence: Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, Carousel Piazza degli Strozzi

Cinque Terre: Vernazza and Monterosso

Montipuliciano

Lucca

Sienna Chapel

Images may not be printed, copied or shared without permission.

Baby Jones and Studio Refuge Updates

2009-09-17T14:48:00.020-05:00

Baby Jones Updates:

I'm 23 weeks pregnant now, almost 6 months. Feeling great and baby is healthy and moving and kicking a lot. We are having a baby boy. Name is still under negotiations. We'll probably end up announcing the name once he's born. He's due around January 10th. Here's his 20 weekultrasound.

Here's my bump progression:

Bumpin' out this month!

Ryan's been working hard on major outdoor home improvements and then will move inside to more major home improvements including painting the nursery. I LOVE decorating and design so I am eager to get in there. Here's ideas my colors, bedding and rugs, lights and accessories.

Blue grey for the walls. Modern, graphic bedding: green, turquoise Accents: greens, yellow, orange and red room accents.

I've got a few painting ideas in mind. Something modern, simple, but a little stylistic and abstract. I love simple, minimal paintings. I'll be tying in the cool colors of the room and popping in some warm colors, yellow, red and orange. Our house colors are greens and blues, because I love being able to accent with warm pillows, rugs and paintings. I typically lean towards warm, bright colors when I do paintings.

But, after some more searching I love this room, too!

Studio Refuge News:

September is fully booked on the weekends for photoshoots! October weekends are also full with the exception of a few spots on the October 18th special mini session date. There are some weekday spots open.

November is fairly open and will be a great time to get on those family, kids and couples portraits for the holidays. December, I'll be nesting and doing client holiday orders for cards and gifts. Then taking a break the rest of the winter to settle in with our baby boy. Sessions will reopen for booking in March.

One of the great new home additions for hopefully, the spring or summer will be a home photography studio in our garage. I've been scoping out some amazing modern, boutique style backdrops for the home studio. Of course, Baby Jones will the first official model for the new home studio. I have a portable lighting set up and look forward to a portable backdrop set up as well.

Another fun update, I have been spending waaaay to much time on the new Studio Refuge flash website. I am extremely detail oriented and knit-picky with getting things just right. Which is great for you if you are one of my photography clients because I pay attention to detail when shooting and especially when editing photos. Not so good when I am trying to get a new flash site up. I have gone back and forth on background colors, logos, text colors a bunch of times.

I'm just going to have to bite the bullet and get it up especially because it will have a great new feature, a shopping cart. Client proof galleries can just click and add photos to their cart and select sizes and discounted packages. That's it for now. Looking forward to the rain stopping and the sessions in the upcoming weeks.

SPECIAL $65 FALL MINI SESSIONS

2009-08-06T16:55:00.034-05:00

Special Fall Mini Sessions

30 min. time slots

Winn Park , 69 Lafayette Drive, Ansley Park in Atlanta

Sat., Aug. 29, 9am - 2pm (Rain Date, Sept. 6th)

Sun., Oct. 18, 1pm- 6pm (Rain Date, Oct. 24th 4-6pm or 25th 1-3pm)

What is the cost of a Special Mini Session?

The cost of a weekend thirty minute Special Fall Mini Session is $65. The session fee is due at the time of booking and payable by secure Paypal transaction.

May I book multiple mini sessions together?
You may book more than one session in a row. In fact, it is recommended that you book multiple sessions if you have two or more children or a little one ( 3 or younger, take a little more time to warm up). The cost of a double Special Fall Mini Session (two sessions) is $115.

How do I sign up for a mini session?
Please call 404.849.5676 or Email Julia

Where is Winn Park located?

Winn Park is located in Ansley Park in Midtown Atlanta, 69 Lafayette Drive.

Sessions will take place at the west end of the park adjacent to Peachtree Circle.
Street parking on Lafayette Drive.

What if it rains or the weather is bad on the day of our mini session?
In case of inclement weather, mini photo sessions will be held on our rain date. If you have any questions about weather, please call me at 404.849.5676. When booking your session, please make sure that you are able to attend both the planned photo session date and the back up date.

What to wear?

Bright colors, textures, patterns and accessories like hats, necklaces, headbands, and layers are

a great way to make a photograph unique.

I'm personally not big on matchy, matchy, but

would encourage not going with colors that contrast too much with other family members. Keep it easy, jeans and a cute top, or a cute dress, patterned or ruffly skirts for little girls. Bring accessories we can play with.

How do I view and purchase my photos?

About a week or two after your photo session, you will receive an email notifying you that your images are ready to be viewed on the StudioRefuge.com proof gallery. A link will be provided which will enable you to view your images online. If you prefer, you may place your order via email, phone or by meeting for an ordering session.

How many images will I get to choose from?
Generally there will be 40 to 50 images per thirty minute mini session. Numbers may vary as each session is different. Only the best images in an effort to make your selections easier.

Can I use an image from our mini session for a holiday card?
Absolutely, you may order prints which can be inserted into photo cards or choose a press-printed folded card option where the image is printed directly onto a heavy stock. These cards also allow for a small image on the back of the card, which adds interest and personality.

Cute Baby Sneak Peek

2009-08-01T12:33:00.003-05:00

Lucky little EG got her mama's beautiful, Latin lips.

Pet JetSetter Sneak Peak

2009-07-25T21:17:00.004-05:00

This a sneak peak of the Pet JetSetter product photography session. Check out all the bags at petjetsetter.com. New Studio Refuge Photos will be updated on the Pet JetSetter website soon.

Fall Studio Refuge News

2009-07-17T12:59:00.004-05:00

Fall Sessions: I am already taking reservations for Fall Photo Session dates. (No deposit required) Plan ahead, weekends are going to fill up fast between football games and photo sessions. If you know you want to do a shoot, I recommend getting on my calendar. I've got a new lighting setup to do indoor shoots at your home as well as the natural light outdoor shoots. Fall is a popular time for Holiday card shoots.

Atlanta Open House Show: I am also planning a possible Open House in Sept. I'll have a photography show (New Italy photographs as well as my South Series) at my home. Some other ladies will be selling their jewelry, homemade ladies and girls dresses and skirts and possibly some knitted items. More info. to come.

Memphis, yes Memphis Studio Refuge News: *Memphis natives*, I will be in town Sept.18-20 , Oct. 5-11, and Nov. 6-8, book a session while I am in town.

Let your friends know about it also, share the Studio Refuge Website, Blog or Facebook Page. I am going to try and do a new show with my Italy photography series at Sauce's in Memphis hopefully one of those times I'm in town.

Pages and Ads: As always share Studio Refuge pages with your friends and family: Web, Blog or Facebook. I'll send a shout out when the Atlanta Parent Studio Refuge Ad is published in August. It's a free directory you can find several places around Atlanta. Thanks for supporting me and Studio Refuge!

Studio Refuge recommended as Top 5 Children's Photographers in Atlanta,GA

2009-07-08T11:24:00.003-05:00

Top 5 Children's Photographers in Atlanta, GA (<-Link)
From fun and quirky, to classic and awe inspiring, these are the top five photographers specializing in children's portraits in Atlanta.

Father/Son Photo Session Sneak Peak

2009-07-01T12:17:00.005-05:00

What a great Father's Day gift. I had the best time shooting this father and son.

They were excellent models. Love the hats.

I have some major catching up to do....

2009-06-28T08:13:00.014-05:00

I need to update my court case with bored Doraville traffic cop and his buddy, buddy judge. (there's a hint)

I've got a million Italy photos to share and millions more I still haven't edited.

I've got videos and photos of my brother, Chip's progress with learning to walk again.

But, what I've really been waiting 3 months to post is..................................

We're having a BABY!!!!!! I'm being lapped by my friends with procreating, but we are finally there. It's been a long hard, private journey, as most women like me with infertility issues experience. I knew I wouldn't really want to share publicly my journey until I finally has some good news and hope to share with others.

Our "maybe baby girl" as I call him or her because the doctor was pretty sure it's a girl, is due early January 10 or 12th, but I am for end of December. I was always annoyed with parents talking in weeks..."Why can't you just say your kid is 2 not 24 months" or "Hang on let me do the math on 16 weeks pregnant" But, seeing how each week is another milestone, I'm right there with pregnant moms.

It's a sweet reminder of God's goodness to be due in January because we lost our baby this past January. Of course, that makes these past 3 months a little more worrisome, but our little one is healthy and active, moving around and kicking already.

Of course, our child will be the most well documented child with photographs. I'm looking forward to our babies first photo shoot.

Here "she" is: (Turns out it was a he;)

11.5 weeks pregnant. Moving alot, looks like she's sucking her thumb.

6 weeks pregnant in Italy.

I was so thankful I wasn't sick and could carry around my pack.

9.5 weeks pregnant.

11.5 weeks pregnant

I should be packing right now, but....

2009-05-05T19:12:00.004-05:00

One last blog entry before we head to Italy on Thurs.
I had to share the latest adventures of Hank and Woody. I also wanted to post some photographs I took this week of the cutest Great Dane in the entire world. (Sorry Hank and Woody, she's pretty cute)

So, we headed to the lake this past weekend to celebrate a friend's birthday at a cabin. It was a lovely time. It started out with a the oddest Chuckie Cheeze style Mexican restaurant with clowns, magicians and phallic sword balloons. (Pics to come.)
Then it was chillin at the cabin, cruising on the boat, with interludes of our friend's breast pump parties. Saturday about 7:30 p.m. we are about to head out for a boat ride to a bluegrass concert and we get a message.

A guy in our neighborhood tells us our dogs are running around the neighborhood. Not anything to shocking. Hank finds a new hole to dig we haven't filled in with cement from time to time. Ryan decides to head down to the house to see if he can track them down after the neighbor can't locate them. He can't find them anywhere in the neighborhood, there are no holes, and the gate is open.

Turns out our neighbor's friend was helping get our neighbors dog in the backyard. Their dog was staying over with Hank and Woody and they were helping us out by feeding our dogs. So the gate was not fully latched and the dogs got out. Typically, they sprint around the cul-d-sac for a few hours and hang around the house.

Hank and Woody decided to blow the joint and make it a guys night on the town. By 12 am Ryan can't find them anywhere. I am up at the cabin worried sick that they had gotten hit or taken. About 2 am Ryan calls me. He is on his way to pick up the dogs. Some guys were up late playing Wii bowling and Hank and Woody showed up on their deck.

The thing is their house was over 3 miles away and entailed them crossing multiple busy 4 lane roads. They slept off their Sunday runaway hang over and we promptly booked their stay at Camp Woof while we're in Italy for 9 days. Just in case they planned another get away.

So here she is. Check out those grey eyes. Amazing!

Pruitt Sneak Peek

2009-04-28T07:38:00.008-05:00

New pics will be up soon on Studio Refuge soon. For now here's a sneak peek of the beautiful Pruitt family.

Ballard Bambino Sneak Peek

2009-04-27T21:44:00.010-05:00

I'm sorry I interrupted your meal time little M. You take great pics even when you are hungry.

Senior Photo Shoot Sneak Peek

2009-04-20T22:29:00.011-05:00

Photos will be up on StudioRefuge.com soon. But, for now, here's a sneak peek.

Oh to be 18 again, minus the drama. I had the best time shooting Lauren and Jeffrey.

Lauren reminds me of a modern day Pretty in Pink (or purple) Molly Ringwald

mixed with a little Sara Bareilles.

He's a keeper, he opens her car door and plans date nights. So sweet.

Don't they make the cutest couple!

What just happened?

2009-04-13T17:19:00.017-05:00

I was crying laughing after Ryan told me this story. Ryan's sitting in the dining room and he hears a horrible noise in the den. He was worried from all the storms some limbs were falling on the roof. By the time Ryan got in there, Hank, scared to death, was standing on the recliner, a floor vent was thrown across room and Woody was in the kitchen with the dog face look of "What just happened?"

Poor Woody, our not so bright chocolate lab, had fallen asleep on the A/C vent and his bone shaped tag on his collar had gotten stuck in the grate. He didn't realize it until he tried to stand up that he was stuck. Of course he was freaking out, flailing and jumping around with his neck and head stuck to the floor.

Oliver

2009-04-06T13:32:00.007-05:00

I got to shoot a friend and her new man, Oliver, the weener dog, this weekend. I was on a hunt for new and interesting urban backdrops for upcoming spring and summer sessions. I am looking forward to our next hunt which will entail some old cemeteries.

St. Simons Island

2009-03-26T20:11:00.013-05:00

We took a long weekend with friends on St. Simons Island.

It was gloomy most days,

but finally had a sunny day the day before we left.

Our last evening,

we were able to watch the spaceship launch at dusk.

"SOUTH"

2009-02-13T18:40:00.007-05:00

I am very excited to go home to Memphis for a week in March. I get to see Chip who is returning home and will be continuing physical therapy hopefully soon at Germantown Rehab. I will get to go to the Ryan Adams/Cardinals concert. My brother, Jeff is catering the venue so I'll be "on the list".

I'll also have an art opening at my brother's restaurant, Sauces. I'll show a collection of my paintings and photographs inspire by my southern roots.

"South" Painting and Photography Art Show

Opening Sat., March 20th, 8-12pm

Live Music, Cocktails

Sauce's Memphis

www.saucesmemphis.com

Art Show Invite Facebook

Custom Valentine Cards

2009-01-29T11:58:00.007-05:00

Custom Valentine Cards now available on StudioRefuge.com

God speaks to his children of little faith

2009-01-25T19:40:00.006-05:00

Another good report from Timber Ridge:
The speech therapist came out of his time with Chip with his hands on his head and said, 'Wow!, It's like I just had Chip's twin brother, like a light has gone on and he is so much more aware.'

My parents took him to the mall. They had gotten off the elevator and Chip said, 'I am ashamed to be in a wheel chair.' Sad, but also gives us alot of hope because he wants to get out of his chair so bad and he is so much aware of things. The desire to change is what is going to get him walking.

My mom noted he was looking around observing people and smiling when he normally focuses on himself and doesn't notice his surroundings.
She commented about Chip smiling at good looking girls. He said, 'I haven't seen any good looking girls here.'

It's exciting he continues to make such progress. They are continuing to wait and see if insurance will cover his inpatient treatment or if he will come home and do outpatient therapy in Germantown.

Perfect timing for good news, with all that's going on right now. Praise God for continuing to encourage through Chip's progress.

I love my husband

2009-01-09T15:07:00.006-05:00

He makes me laugh cry, sometimes just cry, but most of the time laugh cry.

Tennessee Delta

2009-01-01T22:08:00.009-05:00

I grew up in Memphis and my grandparents lived just north of there in a little country town called Trenton. Speed limit 31, 1 of each church- Baptist, Methodist and Presbyterian. And of course the necessities of a small town, McDonald's and Sonic.
My grandfather was well, a smart ass and the local doctor that help found the local hospital and delivered most of the babies in town.

My grandmother, "My" is 87 and a firecracker, very dry, matter of fact and can hold her own. My cousin got confused as to what to call "My". She would call her "My Mom" after hearing her mom call her that. My aunt would say "No, It's My Mom." Eventually, it got shortened to just "My"

Just a couple of years ago she surprised us all at Christmas with a video of her parachuting out of a plane accompanied by Van Halen's "Jump".

She was telling us she got pulled over once, coming over the hill into town. She told the cop if she went 30 miles an hour (as was the speed limit at that time). She'd never make it over the hill. She said it be like when we drove Model T's. We'd have to get out and push our cars over the hill.

The mayor got word of this and I'm sure others complained and the limit was changed to a speedy 31. Ryan says we should just get out and walk. It would be faster.

"My" lives out in the country. Her driveway lined with pine trees and wooden animal cutouts greeting us at Christmas.

We walked behind the house with the dogs around the neighbor's pond. They immediately caught site of the duck decoy.

Hank our "pointer/hunting" dog, who is afraid of water, was barking and pointing like crazy.

Woody our airhead lab, who is afraid of water, would dip a toe and hop out and then get distracted by grass or wind. It doesn't take much.

Of my grandmother's many quarks, she is crazy about celery, grapes, cheese and fritos scoops. She also hoards bottle cokes so, it's always a treat to get to sit out on the back porch and sip on a cold one. It was a peaceful end to our time with family.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-27T11:46:00.013-05:00

Watch the Youtube of Dec. 2007 after this one. It's amazing how much he has improved.

PET PORTRAITS

2008-12-17T23:40:00.014-05:00

Baby Blues

2008-12-04T21:28:00.003-05:00

Here's a sneak peek of a cute little toddler I photographed this week.

I love his blue eyes and rosey cheeks!

Christmas Baby

2008-12-02T20:35:00.005-05:00

I got to photograph my friend's little boy this weekend.

He was a good little poser for a 3 month old.

I can't believe it either

2008-11-26T19:49:00.006-05:00

Christmas is sneaking up on me! You may remember seeing my dogs photoshopped in last year's Christmas card. I am already plotting this years and will have to decide which Studio Refuge Custom Photo Card template to use.
Since then, Woody, our not so bright, but really sweet chocolate lab has replaced our foster dog, Belle who had a hard time tolerating Hank's bossiness.

I'll need Custom Photo Card orders in by Dec. 13th for them to be mailed by Christmas. You can use your own photos and there's easy online payment now with Pay Pal checkout under info.
This is the latest custom card I created for a family.
Greeting, # of photos, layout and colors can be customized to suit your preference.

FALL PHOTO SESSION

2008-10-30T14:07:00.006-05:00

This family just added their 4th little cutie to the mix. They wanted to make sure they got some shots for Christmas presents. I could not stop shooting this family, they are so beautiful.
I wish I had my own kids to shoot so my Christmas shopping would be done with one purchase.

Check out even more new Custom Photo Cards (great for Christmas cards, Thank You's and Announcements) on StudioRefuge.com. You can use your own photos or schedule a photo session for Nov. Get on my calendar quick, it's getting busy.

2008 HOLIDAY PHOTO CARD PREMIER

2008-09-30T21:38:00.019-05:00

I wanted to share some new holiday cards I am very excited about.

These artsy cards are now featured on Studio Refuge.
There will be 10 cards to choose from and the colors and text are changeable to your preference.

They can also be changed into birth announcement cards. You can use your own couple, engagement,wedding, family, or children's images.
Here's a few examples plus a sneak peak from the beautiful Fraser family's photo shoot.

Front

Front

Back

Front

Back

Front

Back

FALL STUDIO REFUGE NEWS

2008-09-23T16:41:00.006-05:00

I've updated Studiorefuge.com with some new photos, paintings & photo packages.

Special Christmas Package
(4) 4x6
(4) 5x7
(2) 8x10 (framed)
(1) 11x14 (framed)
$300

Oct. 5th is opening night at Christ Church in Atlanta for the Expressions exhibit I have photographs and paintings in. I have 3 new paintings that will be in the show that are not yet featured on Studio Refuge.

Art Show Open House Sun., Oct. 19th starting at 5pm at 14 Beverly St. in Ansley Park. My friend Calley will be featuring her pottery and I will have new photographs and paintings. Hope you can stop in.

Hotlanta Sneak Peek

2008-08-17T21:12:00.012-05:00

I got to photograph my friends on a hot Atlanta summer day. They're boys were alot of fun and as you can tell very photogenic. You can see the rest of the photos here.

Back on the farm

2008-08-11T13:07:00.010-05:00

We spent Ryan's 30th Birthday on the TN Farm. Instead of taking photos this time, I painted the hay barn en plain air and knitted blankets for my friends. I am back logged on my blog photo uploading so, I am going to share my photos from our July 4th trip to the farm.

More of Bertha's folk art

A family heirloom: My mother in law's "Last Supper" Paint by Numbers

Homecoming

2008-07-30T11:19:00.008-05:00

I got to visit my family for a week in Memphis. Chip will be going to Timber Ridge Neuro Rehabilitation Center in the next couple of week so it was nice to spend time with him. Once you get him past his questions he gets stuck on from his short term memory loss, he can talk to you about anything. They are suppose to get him walking at the rehab. center. That will be exciting for him to have that independence. I know that is where alot of his frustration comes from.
I made him some folders with his questions on them and sheets of paper inside each one with the answers on them so he can visualize the answer and file it away like his brain should do. Unfortunantly, now for my parents he loves his folders and wants to use them constantly. Time will tell if it will be helpful in improving his short term memory.

For my Dad's Birthday we went to our favorite family Italian restaurant, Pete and Sam's. My dad and his Italian side of the family has known their family for many years. Sam bickers with his sister who takes phone orders so much you'd mistake them as a married couple. The photo above shows my great uncle Joe with Mike Tyson.

Shelby Farms is a beautiful conservancy near the Wolf River. Part of the park is reserved for agriculture which is sold at their farmers market. I grew up riding my mountain bike on the trails, walking next to the lakes, buffalo and horses.

One year ago

2008-07-20T23:02:00.006-05:00

The latest update I posted on caringbridge.org:

Hard to think about that one year ago tom. (7.21.07) God chose life for Chip and saved him from darkness. It's sad to remember all the scary ups and down while he was in ICU, but am so thankful God is continuing to heal him and show his goodness. It's definitely still hard for us at times because Chip has a ways to go with his short term memory and his other neurological obsticals. But, God did not give up on him when he was a prodigal son and he is not giving up on him now thanks to love and forgiveness through Christ who saved us. We look with hope for even more healing in Chip and in turn for God to show us his glory and power over all obsticals. Thank you for your continued prayers and pleading for Chip's recovery. It means so much to us.