Open for booking today! Shoot me an email with your choice of day and time preference.  Can't wait to see all the little heartbreakers!!  :)

Sessions are open for booking Tuesday, September 12th at 8pm for current clients. If any spots remain on September 13th they'll be offered to the general public.  These sessions are expected to sell out, in fairness to all, inquiries sent before 8pm will not be counted.  

I just opened my calendar up to November this morning to book a session!  November! Crazy, right?!  I started thinking that I better take a look at what's left for the summer, I know it's getting extremely limited.  I've chatted with a handful of clients about scheduling a summer session for a newborn or family or incoming high school senior, but we haven't set a date yet.  If you were one of them (or you're planning on reaching out to me) now would be the time to get in touch with me.  Here's what's left for this summer:

June-  4 weekday spots for newborn/child;    3 weekend spots for family/seniors

July-  2 weekday spots for newborn/child/family/senior;    1 weekend spot for family/seniors

August-  2 weekday spots for newborn/child/family/senior;    0 weekend spots

I'm planning on offering beach minis in July and possibly again in August if I can squeeze them in.  I'm also trying to plan a date for Mermaid minis for little girls in June if there's enough interest.  If you are interested in either the beach or mermaid mini sessions please let me know so that I can plan for it.   Thanks!
 

:) Betsy

Wow, did fall sneak up fast!!  It feels like last week that I was sitting on the beach with my bff and our kids, our only care was whether to stop at the candy store or ice cream shop on the way home.  Now it's school schedules and dance and hockey and soccer and ccd and homework, homework, homework.  Oh, do I miss those lazy summer days!  

Now that we're back in the swing of things, WOW has it gotten busy at Betsy Hynes Photography!!   The only availability I have left for the rest of the year are a handful of weekday morning appointments reserved for newborns and baby milestones...and even those are extremely limited!  If you were hoping to get a family photo or updated kids photos done by me this year, snagging a mini session spot will be the only way to do that.  

Tonight at 8pm, the fall minis will be open for booking.  They are first come, first served and emails before 8pm will not be counted. Once they're full I'll add a wait list for the first 5 families. 

Next month I'll be opening the holiday themed sets for booking.  In case you want to mark your calendars for that the dates are:  Saturday November 5th and 12th at the Christmas Tree Farm for families and/or kids  and the 19th and 20th will be indoor holiday themed sets for babies & children.  

That's all for now!

:) Betsy

Lately I’ve been seeing a lot of posts on local Facebook sites asking for recommendations for a newborn photographer.  In the last few years this genre has really exploded and there are a lot of exciting new trends.   There are always several responses (often more than 30+) from photographers of all different price ranges and abilities and while having options is a good thing, I’d like to offer you a word of caution.   A lot of photographers (myself included) started out doing this as a hobby when we had children and got a “nice” camera.  We all have to start somewhere, I get that.  You know that old saying “you get what you pay for?”  In this field it’s so true.   It takes so much dedicated time to learn this craft, to study newborn safety, training and posing to make sure the baby is always handled with the utmost care.  It takes thousands of dollars invested in equipment, workshops and seminars, props and accessories.  And it takes hours of time in practice perfecting poses.  I’m not discounting any other photographers, but if you are seeing someone offering $150 for a newborn session with all your photos included, you can bet they aren’t doing it correctly. I’ve seen photos that literally make me cringe. I’ve also seen videos of photographers during a session that pose the baby unsafely because they don’t know better. You know that popular “froggie” pose where the baby has it’s face in it’s hands and the piggie toes are out to the sides?  Did you know that babies aren’t supposed to hold that pose on their own…done correctly it’s actually a composite (two different photos merged together in processing).

 If you are trusting someone to hand over your brand new baby there are a few questions you should be asking to insure that your baby is safe during the session. 

1. Are you licensed to do business in our state?  (My answer is yes)
2. Are you insured against liability? (Yes)
3. Are you trained in newborn safety, posing and soothing? (Again, yes)
4. How long have you worked with newborns, and approximately how many babies have you photographed? (4 years, 150+)
5. Do you use composites for all upright positions? (Yes)
6. Are your vaccinations up to date? (Yes)

 There are other questions to think about too…  What does the average client spend with this photographer?  Is it in your budget?   Do you like the photographer’s style?  Do you like the feel of the photos?  Do the babies in the photos look comfortable and posed well? Do you like his/her personality?  Have you heard others recommend this photographer? This post is not meant to scare you into hiring me as your photographer.  There’s so much more to choosing someone that’s the right fit for you, we may or may not be a good match for each other, and that’s ok.    No matter who you choose as your newborn photographer, please ask the important questions and make sure she/he has the right answers. 

It may not feel like it today, but spring is coming!!  The first "official" day is this Sunday!  First communion minis are typically my first set of outdoor sessions after the long winter, and I look forward to them every year!  As soon as April rolls around I start stalking the trees, inspecting the bushes and waiting (not so patiently) for everything to come back to life. It usually happens right around the 20th of April...just in time for these sessions.  I know there is a lot of interest this year, I am expecting these dates to fill.  If that happens I will take limited appointments during April vacation or after school the following week if possible to accommodate as many sessions as I can.  If you're interested in a session, please don't wait long to let me know.  Happy (almost) spring!! :) Betsy

I know, I know...it's only the beginning of October.  Believe me, I feel the same way you do about rushing things along.  But won't it feel great to cross one thing off your list in November before it really gets crazy?  I've already made custom holiday cards for 23 families this year...how lucky are they that when December 1st rolls around they can just pop them in the mailbox?  I know there is a LOT of interest in these sessions, especially the outdoor tree farm minis.  I expect them to sell out fast.  There is also a NEW indoor theme this year- "Land of the Sweets"!  This set is going to be a lot of fun, and there will also be matching headbands for baby girls to use if they'd like.  Don't mind the furry backdrop tester, my kiddos were still sleeping this am, and of course he loves to be right in the middle of the fun!  Here are all the session details, PLEASE READ BEFORE EMAILING ME. 

Session fee is $150 for a 20 minute session (outdoors) or 30 minute session (indoors).  This includes your choice of 25 custom designed holiday cards (you may add on more) or 1 digital JPEG.  If you choose the card option you'll come to my home for a mini appointment to see all of your photos in print and design the card with me.  If you choose the digital image you'll see your photos online and choose via email or phone.  In either option you can purchase additional prints, cards, etc. if you choose.  

Past clients can email their first, second and third choice for time slots starting at 8pm tonight- Sunday, October 4th.  In fairness to others, if your email is timestamped before 8pm it will not go in the cue.  I will update what's left available tomorrow morning, new clients can email starting Monday morning at 9am to secure any remaining spots.  

OUTDOOR TREE FARM MINIS (photo 1) *For families and/or children (up to 7 people)

Saturday, November 7th at 8am, 8:20am, 8:40am, 9am, 9:20am, 9:40am, 10am, 10:20am, 10:40am and 11am  SOLD OUT

Saturday, November 14th at 8am, 8:20am, 8:40am, 9am, 9:20am, 9:40am, 10am, 10:20am, 10:40am and 11am  SOLD OUT

INDOOR HOLIDAY MINIS  *for up to 3 children only, no adults please

Saturday, November 21st: Santa's Toy Shop (photo 2) at 8:30am, 9am, 9:30am, 10am and 10:30am SOLD OUT

​Saturday, November 21st: Land of the Sweets (photo 3) at 12pm, 12:30pm, 1pm, 1:30pm and 2pm

Sunday, November 22nd: Bright White Holiday (photo 4)  at 8:30am, 9am, 9:30am, 10am and 10:30am SOLD OUT

That's it for now...

:) Betsy

Yesterday I was sitting on my beach chair at the Cape...iced tea in hand, chatting with my bff, kids splashing happily in the warm ocean waves with not a care in the world.  Today I am up to my eyeballs in phone calls, emails, orders to fill and unedited sessions.  After school there was a doctor's appt., hockey practice, dance shoe fittings, a solo practice, dinner to figure out and the endless (dreaded!!) 4 million forms to fill out that inevitably made their way home in backpacks.  What a difference 24 hours makes! ;o)  

I'm not complaining about being busy, quite the opposite...I'm extremely grateful that is the case.  However, my calendar is almost completely booked through January!!

Here are the upcoming mini session dates so that you can put them on your calendar too.  Please do not email me right now with your preferences or interest in a spot for minis, I can't hold any spots just yet.  About a month before the date I'll finalize the details and send out another email/facebook message letting you know they are open for booking at a certain date and time, that's when you'll want to send me an email if you want to snag a spot.  

FALL MINIS:

Sunday, October 18th (6 spots available)

Saturday, October 24th (6 spots available)

OUTDOOR HOLIDAY MINIS (at the Christmas Tree Farm)

Saturday, November 7th (10 spots available)

Saturday, November 14th (10 spots available)

INDOOR HOLIDAY MINIS (kids only)

Sunday, November 15th (6 spots available)

Saturday, November 21st (6 spots available)

Right now this is ALL I have available for appointments for family sessions, the traditional family session spots are completely booked through the new year. If you are an existing customer (you've had at least one photo session with me in the last few years) and were hoping to get a regular session, shoot me an email and let me know, I'll put you on the cancellation list as first priority if a spot opens.  

NEWBORN, BABY & TODDLER SESSIONS:  There are still a few spots left during the week in the morning for these sessions. October has 4 left, November has 3 and December has 3.  If you are expecting (or know someone who is) NOW is the time to get an appointment on the calendar before it books up completely.  

That's all for now, back to editing, emails and phone calls!  

:) Betsy

If you send me a photo of the room you'd like your new artwork to be displayed in, I'll even show you exactly what it will look like on your own walls, how cool is that?!  To do this- tape a blank 8.5x11 piece of paper to the wall approximately where you want your canvas, stand back about 8-10 feet and snap a pic with your cell.  You should be able to see a little of the ceiling and/or floor and the surrounding furniture to help with scale.  Email it to me at [email protected] with the # of the photo you want.  

If your gallery has closed and you want it reopened so that you can figure out which photo to order, shoot me an email and I'll reopen it for you.  The sale is only until Sunday and won't be available after that, so please don't wait if you'd like to order.  

:) Betsy

The photo above is displayed on a 16x20 canvas on a wall in my friend's home.  Knowing that every time her family looks at it they are transported back to that day on the beach, full of giggles and love,  is part of the reason I do what I do.  Her children will never be this old again. In fact, they are already a year older.  But on the wall they are frozen in that happy moment, captured as they were that day.  In an effort to encourage you all to get your families on the wall, beach minis will be a little different this year.  There are 3 different options for your session, and each includes wall art.  Instead of opening your gallery online for you to order, you'll come to my home so that I can show your photos in person.  I'll have samples for you to see and help you decide what works best in your home. Here are the details:

Beach Minis, Session 1

At Rexhame Beach on Saturday, June 20th at 7:30am, 8am, 8:30am, 9am and 9:30am.

Option A: $150

Session fee plus an 11x14 print mounted on styrene and lustre coated, ready for frame

Option B: $250

Session fee plus a 16x20 canvas print, ready to hang

Option C: $350

Session fee plus an 11x14 shabby chic framed print (footprint 16x20)

Beach minis are available for booking tonight at 8pm for past clients, and tomorrow night, May 12th at 8pm for future clients, pending any available appointments.  There will be 1 or possibly 2 more beach mini sessions this summer in July or August.  Regular summer appointments are also now officially open for booking.  Spots are very limited this year in anticipation of the volume of newborn summer sessions I'll be shooting.  If you're planning on booking a summer appointment now is the time to get it on the calendar.  

And finally, I'm having another contest!  In keeping with the "get your family on the wall" theme, I want you to send me a cell phone pic of your family on the wall from a session I took.  Email the pic to [email protected] with the subject line "On the wall".  On May 25th I'll create an album on Facebook with all the photos and open the contest for voting.  The photo that has the most combined likes, comments and shares on May 27th at 9pm wins a free mini session (products not included).  

Hooray for summer!!

:) Betsy

Message me if you'd like one... :)

:) Betsy

Hope you are all dug out from this latest storm and not going too stir crazy in your houses with the kiddos.  ;)  Looking ahead, this spring is going to go on record as my busiest yet!  There are newborn sessions, 1st birthday sessions, two fundraisers, Easter minis and First Communion minis on the calendar.  Add to that my own personal stuff- two dance competitions and a recital, my own little boy's First Communion and 6 family birthdays...my head is starting to spin!  I don't have all the details worked out yet, but I wanted to give you a heads up on a few dates in case your spring looks like mine.

Easter Minis- Saturday, March 14th and Sunday, March 15th indoors at my home

First Communion Minis- Friday, April 24th (school vacation) in the morning, Saturday, April 25th in the morning and Sunday, April 26th in the afternoon at St. Clare's in Braintree

Newborn sessions- there are only a handful of appointments left in March and April, and a couple of weeks that are already closed.  If you are due this spring (or know someone who is) and you are thinking of making an appointment, please don't wait.

That's all for now, 

:) Betsy

Hi Everyone!

I'm going to try to make this brief because I'm currently 32 (THIRTY TWO??!)  sessions behind in editing....there are obviously a few all-nighters in my near future. ;o)

DECEMBER 6TH- Last day to order holiday cards.  I must have your final version ready to send and your invoice needs to be paid by this date.  

DECEMBER 13th-Last day to order prints with regular shipping.  

DECEMBER 20TH- ALL galleries (except sessions during the month of Dec.) will be taken down so that I can do maintenance and website design. If you'd like to order any additional prints from any of the galleries over this past year, you'll want to do so before Dec. 20th.  

NEWBORN PARENTS- I'm putting together a welcome guide for new prospective parents and would love to include a few testimonials from past clients...if you have a few free minutes and wouldn't mind sharing with others how your experience with me went please send a short blurb to my email address: [email protected]  I really appreciate it, thank you so much!

:) Betsy

I know 6 families who already have their Holiday cards in hand, ready to be dropped in the mailbox on December 1st...wouldn't it be great to check that off your list too?  I'd love to help you accomplish that goal, and to that end...I'm having a sale!  For the month of November you can purchase a set of 100 cards, custom designed by me for only $125. (Additional quantities can be purchased if you need more)   They are a double sided, heavy weight 5x7 card stock paper in your choice or linen or felt, and trust me when I say, they are gorgeous!!  There's a gallery of sample cards for you to get ideas (in the galleries on my webpage) but we'll work together to create exactly what you want. I can recreate almost anything, so if you see something you like on another site, feel free to send me a pic of what you like and we can start there.   Each card is individually created and can be personalized any way you'd like and matched to your photos for a beautiful, finished product your friends and family will love.  I always add an extra in case you don't mind mailing one to me too...I love displaying all of the beautiful client cards for my friends, family and future clients to see.  :)

But sometimes, a deal on another site is just too good to pass up.    If one comes your way and you'd like to use photos from your session to create a holiday card on another printing site, you can now buy individual jpegs through your gallery for $35 each. 

If your gallery has already closed and you'd like it reopened so that you can take advantage of either of these sales, shoot me an email and I'll reopen it for you.  Galleries posted in 2014 will be taken down in January 2015 to make room for new ones.  If you'd like to order additional prints from your gallery, you'll want to do it before the end of the year.  There will be a $25 fee to reload and open old galleries from the previous year after they're removed.  

And finally, just a little reminder... if you have not purchased the digital images from your session, you do not have the printing rights or permission to create cards, prints or gifts on another site with your photos. It's illegal to copy, print or screen grab your photos from Facebook or my website, or scan prints you've purchased to create digital images.  

:) Betsy

Four different backdrops and dates to choose from

20-25 minute session

 10+ photos in your gallery

Includes your choice of: 

(1) digital jpeg with printing rights or

(1) set of 25 holiday cards or

  $25 print credit

*Additional cards, prints and gifts can be purchased through your gallery

$125

1. Christmas Tree Farm- November 15th at

8am, 8:20am, 8:40am, 9am, 9:20am, 9:40am, 10am, 10:20am & 10:40am

*OUTDOORS for families and/or kids age 3+   SOLD OUT

2. Christmas Toy Shop- November 16th at

10am, 10:30am, 11am, 11:30am, 1pm & 1:30pm

*INDOORS for 1-3 children only (no adults)

3. Bright White Holiday- November 22nd at 

10am, 10:30am, 11am, 11:30am, 1pm & 1:30pm

*INDOORS for 1-3 children only (no adults) SOLD OUT

4.  Winter Wonderland- November 23rd at

10am, 10:30am, 11am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1pm & 1:30pm

*INDOORS for 1-3 children only (no adults)

**Note**

In the event of rain, Session 1 will be on November 16th and the indoor Christmas Toy Shop sessions will be on November 15th.

Email or send a message on Facebook with the following info:

1. How many children you have and their ages

2. Your first and second choice for sessions

3. your email and cell # 

Requests will be filled first come, first served based on the timestamp of your message

:) Betsy

FALL MINI SESSIONS

The kids are back in school, big red apples are ready to be picked in the orchard and "Pumpkin everything" can be found in stores....fall is coming!!   You know what that means... Fall Mini Sessions!!  Tonight at 8pm they'll be open for booking, first come, first served.  I know there are a lot of families interested in these sessions, and I don't expect them to last too long.  As always, there will be a wait list when they sell out. Details are in the poster above.  

CANVAS SALE

16x20 canvas prints are on sale this week only for $100!!  They are gorgeous, hand stretched museum grade canvas on a solid wood block with a finished back ready for hanging.  I'm submitting the order on Friday, please email me before then if you're interested.  If you have an outstanding session that I've done in the last 3 weeks that hasn't been posted you can still take advantage of this sale.  You'll be invoiced and pay for the canvas now, and when your gallery is live you can let me know which photo you'd like and I'll submit your order then.  This also applies to galleries that have already closed, if you'd like your gallery reopened so that you can order just let me know.  *Canvases will be bulk shipped to my house and must be picked up here.  

REWARDS PROGRAM

And finally, I'm still keeping track of the referrals. Below is a list of names that have been written down, the number next to your name is how many times it's been written down.  1 point= a free 8x10, 5 points= 1/2 off a session, 10 points= a free session.  Let me know if you'd like to redeem your points. :)

Here's what I currently have left for summer appointments:

5 available sessions on the weekend for family, beach or senior sessions

6 available newborn sessions during the week

There are also a handful of appointments available during the week in the early morning for child, family or senior sessions.  

I will be adding one more day of Beach Minis on Sunday, August 3rd for those of you who are interested. I'll be opening them for booking on Tuesday, July 1st at 8pm.  If you're interested mark your calendars, I know they're going to sell out super fast...it's first come first served. 

And finally, I'd love to add a sunset silhouette mini session to the calendar and another indoor beach baby mini session...would anyone be interested in either of these sessions?  Please comment below if you are and if there's enough interest I'll add them to the schedule.  

Hooray for summer!!  :)

I did a very special photo shoot yesterday that I'd like to share with you.  My children are very fortunate to have all four of their grandparents still alive and healthy and I know that years from now when they are grown adults with children of their own a photograph of them with all of their grandparents would be priceless.  I've wanted to do this for a long time, but I knew when I broached the idea there might be a little resistance (some are a little camera shy).   When I reminded them that it was for their grandchildren, all were (hesitantly) on board.  Under threat of disowning me, I am not allowed to share photos of my mother in law on "Faceplace" or any other social media, but thankfully my own parents are a little less camera shy so I can post this shot of them.  There is an equally gorgeous shot just like this that includes my in laws too that will be blown up and hung proudly in my family room for years to come.  And I know that many years from know when my own children hang these photos on their walls, they'll be grateful I coaxed (and possibly even bribed) their grandparents to the field that day.  

Happy Monday!! I don't know about you, but I sure hope this weather lasts a while, I'm done with the cold, windy, overcast days!   As promised, Beach Mini Sessions are available for booking today!  I'm trying something a little different this time to encourage you all to get your family photos on the wall. :)   They will be on Sunday, June 22nd in the morning, and there are only 6 spots available...they're probably going to go fast.  Here are the details:

Sunday, June 22nd at 8am, 8:30am, 9am, 9:30am, 10am and 10:30am

Two Options to choose from:

Option A: 30 minute session, 10+ photos, includes an 11x14 wall portrait- $100

Option B: 30 minute session, 10+ photos, includes an art gallery 16x20 canvas-$175

As always, you are able to order any prints a la carte from your gallery in addition these options.  The session fee will need to be paid a week before your session by either mailing me a check, or by invoice through email, whichever you prefer.  Shoot me a message or call with your first and second time slot choice. 

Also, the referral reward program is going really well, so I thought I'd give you an update.  If your name is below, someone has written down on a session that they were referred by you.  The number next to your name is how many times it's been written down.  1 referral can be exchanged for a free 8x10, 5 referrals can be exchanged for 1/2 off a session fee and 10 referrals can be exchanged for a free session...some of you are well on your way there.  I've said it before and will say it many times more...word of mouth truly is the best form of advertising, so a great big THANK YOU to those of you sharing my name!!  

:)  Betsy

Referral Program Update

Melanie Kenney 2

Monique Collins 1

Nicole Fennell 5

Alyssa Martin 2

Ashley Johnson 3

Traci Graham 1

Lisa LaBollita 1

Laura Newcomb 1

Kathleen Riley 1

Kelly Polous 1

Annabelll Rojas 1

Beth Crooker 1

Andrea McNamee 1

Hilaire Woods 1

Cindy Ahern 1

Elaine O’Neill 1

Rachel Sweeney

UPDATE:   Beach Mini Sessions are completely SOLD OUT!!  I'm hoping to add more minis in July...stay tuned.  :)

It's been a while since my last blog, and even longer than that since my last contest, I think it's about time for both. :)  Spring is officially here, and boy do we deserve it after this longgg winter!  I've had some time lately to really focus on the newborn side of photography and find my own style, and after much internal debate I've realized that I actually have two styles.  Part of me loves the adorable, prop styled shoots with babies dressed as mermaids, bumblebees, etc. or  but then I'm also always drawn to the more natural, organic neutral shots as well.  I've got a bunch of new ideas floating around in my head and I'd love to test them out...it's time for a contest!  The winner will receive a free newborn session, and you can enter up to 3 times each day until Tuesday, April 15th. Share my contest on Facebook with your friends (especially the pregnant ones :) )  for an extra entry.  To enter the contest, click the link below.   Remember, you can enter up to 3 times a day, so check back daily!  Good luck!

A new twist this year – we have gone ahead and added a VIP session to Cure Me I’m Irish that runs from 6:15pm until the event kicks off at 8pm.  This event is held in the downstairs function room and is free for NB parents and includes event sponsors, Beat NB board members as well as presentations.  This year Dr. Sholler will be proving an update to our guests about how our work has helped the NMTRC achieve it’s mission of impacting survival and how your support is literally making a difference today.  We are also honored to have the reigning Miss Rhode Island in attendance who is currently a college student and who just happens to be a neuroblastoma survivor.  And last but certainly not least is our very special guest from North Carolina – Ashley – who just last month was declared 18 months clear of neuroblastoma and has spent all of that time on the DFMO study that YOUR support has helped make happen.  It is going to be an extraordinary start to the evening and something you can be a part of as an event sponsor or with the purchase of a special VIP ticket that also includes your normal event admission.

With three more snowstorms on the way this week, I thought today might be a good day to start thinking about Spring (darn that stupid Groundhog!).   The next few months are already crazy busy, and I anticipate it getting even crazier as the weeks go on. I wanted to give you a heads up on the dates for mini sessions in case you're interested, so that you can mark your calendars too. :)  

Easter Minis-

They will be on Sunday, March 23rd this year.  I haven't worked out all the details yet, but I know it will be an indoor,  30 minute session with a $75 sitting fee.  I'm anticipating them selling out quickly, as they did last year.  If you know you definitely would like a session, shoot me a message now and I'll put you on the list, then when they're announced you'll be guaranteed a spot.    I'm in the process of trying to find a live bunny to borrow for the sessions.   if you have one (or know someone who does) that is good with kids and will smile on cue (haha, just kidding!) I'd be willing to exchange a free session as a "borrowing fee".  :)  

First Communion Minis-

They will be on Saturday, April 26th (rain date Sunday, April 27th).  Again, I don't have all the details worked out yet, but I know there will be a few options to choose from- an indoor session, an outdoor session or a combo of both.  Indoor/Outdoor sessions will be 30 minutes, $75 session fee. Combo will be 60 minutes, $100 session fee.  If you definitely want one of these, shoot me a message and I'll put you on the list to secure a spot.  

That's all for now...back to editing!

:)  Betsy

Also starting this year, if you book 2 sessions in one year you get $25 off your second sitting fee.   These are just a few small ways for me to say thank you- for sharing my name, telling your friends and trusting me year after year to capture those precious memories for you.

Indoor Valentine's Day themed session at my home on Saturday, February 1st from 10am-1pm, by appointment

20 minutes

6+ photos in your gallery

1-3 children

$50

Please call or email today to book your appointment...

[email protected]     781.799.3554

Happy New Year!  Wouldn't it be great to start the new year off with a shiny, new professional headshot?  In today's world we are likely to be "meeting" people online for the first time..what does your current professional profile pic say about you?  Is it a perfectly posed, well lit, polished image of you in a flattering light?  No?  Call or email to set up your appointment today! Here are the details:

Professional Headshot Sessions:

Sunday, January 19th

10am-2pm, by appointment

15 minute session, 10 images in your gallery, 1 high res. digital image included (option to buy others or prints)

$50

*If you would like to bring a change of clothes, please book a double session

:)  Betsy

[email protected]

781.799.3554

I've got a bunch of new, exciting things going on to tell you about!

1. Outdoor Super Mini Sessions will be Saturday,  November 23rd from 9-11am. They will be 15 minutes, and you'll get about 5 photos in your gallery.  The session fee for this is $50 and includes one high resolution jpeg of your choice for you to make holiday cards with. These sessions are filling up fast and are currently open to past customers.  On Sunday they'll be available to everyone and I'm expecting them to sell out fast.

2. Indoor Mini Sessions will be Sunday, November 24th from 1-3pm and Saturday, November 30th from 9-11am.  It's a 30 minute session, with a $75 sitting fee.  There are two different set ups to choose from depending on which day you choose.  Sneak peeks will be up Sunday night!  These are currently only open to past customers, but will be open to everyone on Sunday.

3. NEW holiday cards are here!  I'm using a different vendor for holiday cards this year, and I'm super excited about the quality!  They are double sided, boutique style 5x7 cards in your choice of finish-semi gloss, matte, linen or felt.  Felt is my personal favorite, it's beautiful!  They are currently on sale for $30 per pack of 25, plus $5 shipping.    Here's the most exciting part...because I created them, they are all completely customizable!!  Each can be horizontal or vertical, can fit however many pictures you'd like  (1-6) in whichever direction you want, the colors can be changed, words and graphics can be changed, etc...  I can even custom match the colors of your card to the clothes you're wearing or background!  Feel free to poke around the holiday cards gallery on my homepage...if you'd already had a session with me, don't be surprised if one of your photos is in my sample cards.  :) Three customers already have their cards in hand for this year (and love them!)...wouldn't you like to be able to cross that off your list too?   Cards are ordered directly through me and must be paid for using a credit card through my website, or with cash or check mailed to me before they're ordered.  I will need to have your order and payment by Friday, December 7th at the very latest in order for you to get your cards in time to mail them out.  

If you are a past customer and you'd like to book one of the holiday sessions, shoot me an email and I'll let you know what times are left.  Finally, if you had a session with me this year and would like your gallery reopened to order prints or cards, shoot me an email and I'd be happy to do that.

:)  Betsy

October is shaping up to be my busiest month ever to date with 26 (?!!) appointments on the calendar!! I am so excited for all the fun sessions planned!   I'm watching three different spots for the mini sessions, I can't wait to see how they transform over the next couple of weeks.  If you've signed up for a mini session, please send me your form & payment by Tuesday, Oct. 1st so I can get a final count.  I have a waiting list for both days, if there are any last minute cancellations I want to be able to fill them.  A few days before your scheduled session I'll send you an email with the location we'll be meeting at and directions to get there.

It goes without saying that with that many appointments on the calendar, October is booked solid. November is also extremely limited, I only have weekend appointments at the end of the month.   There is a cancellation list for regular appointments as well, if you were hoping to get a sooner one, let me know and I can add your name in case something pops up.    

In other exciting news, I have two special mini sessions planned in November, here are the details:

Saturday, November 9th- "One Great Photo for the Holiday Card Event"-   This is geared toward families that just need a great photo (or two) for their cards, presents to family, etc...   It will be an outdoor,  quick 15 minute session, 5+ photos in your gallery, $50.   Here's the best part- one free high resolution jpeg with printing rights for holiday cards.  Lots of photo printing sites offer deep discounts on holiday cards in November (Shutterfly, winkflash & Snapfish to name a few),  here's your chance to take advantage.  

Saturday, November 30th- Indoor Holiday Themed Sessions- These are for children only, with a maximum of two (or 3 if one is a baby).  They will be 30 minutes, $75, 10+ photos in your gallery. 

I'm expecting both of these sessions to sell out very quickly.  I'm not announcing them to the public for a few weeks so that I can make sure all of my current clients who would like to take advantage of either session get a chance to do so.  If you are interested in either session,  please shoot me an email and I'll be sure to add your name to the list.    That's all for now, Happy Fall!!  :)

Some of you might already know this about me, but for those who don't, fall is my favorite season!  Don't get me wrong, I love the lazy, hot days on the beach in the summer, but there's something in that fall air that is just so refreshing...know what I mean?  Looking at my fall calendar this year makes me equally want to jump for joy and breathe deeply into a paper bag...it is CrAzYYYYY!!!  September is booked completely solid, October only has 2 available appointments (TWO?!) and November has just a handful more.   Fall mini sessions sold out in less than two days, and there is a waiting list for both days.  Mother Nature, I'm going to need your full cooperation here for the next few months, otherwise I WILL need that paper bag!  How about until, let's say december, it only rains on Mondays?   Deal?  

I feel so grateful that I'm seeing so many familiar faces year after year, and so many new faces that have been referred by past customers.  Repeat customers and kind words of referral are truly the best compliments, I just wanted to say thanks for that.  :)    

I know that there are a lot of you still out there planning on booking an appointment, or thinking about it...please don't wait.  In addition to the regular appointments I have left, I'm also planning on offering one more day of holiday themed minis in November.  Details will be announced soon, I'm super excited about these sessions...stay tuned!   

Happy Fall!!!

:) Betsy

The kids are back in school (sniff, sniff), the days are getting shorter, nights are getting colder...fall is just around the corner.  It's that time of year again...time for fall mini sessions!  Wouldn't it be nice to have a beautiful photo of your kids and/or family to use for your holiday card?  Better yet, wouldn't it be nice to already HAVE your holiday cards ready to go before it starts to get crazy and the holidays sneak up on us?  Or how about a beautiful print or canvas ready to be wrapped up for the grandparents?   Fall mini sessions are perfect!  Call or email me today if interested! :)

*For 2 weeks only, you may purchase a 16x20 canvas through me for $75!!

1. Shoot me an email (or call) to let me know which photo you'd like to use

2. Mail me a check for $75

3. When I receive your check I'll place your order

4. Pick up your canvas at my house in 2-3 weeks

5. Hang and enjoy!! :)

**This special will also apply to photo sessions already scheduled through September 2.  If you know you will want a canvas from your session you can mail me a check now, and when your photos are edited and your gallery is live you can let me know which photo you'd like and I'll order for you.

This special offer is only available through September 2, 2013, so don't delay!   

:)  Betsy

Would you like beach photos of your children or family?  I only have a small handful of appointments left in August and the beginning of September, and then I'll be switching gears to get ready for fall and Holiday sessions.  Shoot me an email or call today if you'd like to book one.  

:)  Betsy

BREAKING NEWS:  The winner of the Summer Session is....NANCY STRAUSS!!  Congratulations Nancy, please contact me to set up your appointment! 

**As a special thank you, anyone who a left blog comment below will receive a  FREE Summer Special Package (1 8x10, 2 5x7s, 4 wallets) if you book a summer session with me.  

Thanks again to everyone who entered, I have the best fans!!  xo

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*If the winning session is used for Newborn or Senior portraits a $25 fee will be due at the time of the session to cover the extra time allotted. Session must be booked this summer and expires 9/4/13.  

Where: Rexhame Beach 

When: Saturday, July 20th (in the dunes)  or Saturday, August 3rd (at the ocean)

Available times: 5:15pm, 5:45pm, 6:15pm & 6:45pm

Session Fee: $75  *Session fee must be mailed to me at the time of your booking to hold your spot.  

A lot of families have expressed interest in these sessions, I expect both days to fill up quickly.  If that happens, I may add another session in August, if I can wiggle it into my schedule.  If you know you are interested please don't wait...shoot me an email or call to book your spot.  Happy Summer!!

:)  Betsy

***UPDATE:  All current Summer Mini sessions are SOLD OUT.  If you'd like to be put on a cancellation list, or would be interested in a third date in August please let me know.  

 Now is the perfect time to schedule senior portraits!  Most high schools have yearbook submission deadlines in September or the beginning of October, which doesn't leave a lot of time to schedule your appointment when you get back to school.  Early summer is perfect because (aside from this week!) the weather tends to be warm and mild, but not too hot or humid.  Are you a beach person?  An outdoorsy type?  An athlete?  Whatever your style we can work together to find the right location to shoot your portraits.  We'll start off with traditional, formal poses as we make our way around your location, and end with some fun ones to spotlight your personality.  You're welcome to bring wardrobe changes, props and accessories if you like and you can also bring along a friend if you want to lighten the mood.  If you book a double session (you and your friend both get your portraits done) you'll each get a $25 credit toward prints in your gallery!   Sessions are about 1-1 1/2 hours for a single session and about 2 1/2 hours for a double and the session fee is $125 per person.   Interested?  Don't wait, summer is booking up quickly.  Grab a friend and book your appointment today...  :o)

As per my usual morning routine, I curled up on the couch with my ipad to surf the web, when I saw it. Bam!  302!!  Over 300 facebook fans, I almost can't believe it.  What's more surprising to me is how many of you I know by more than just name.  Some are family & friends but a lot more are also clients who have become friends along my journey.  Families I did not know a year and a half ago, but I now consider so much more than just fans.    I've laughed with you, gotten to know you and your children, coaxed smiles, silly faces and everything in between all while documenting your important milestones along the way.  It makes me so happy to know that I've frozen that moment for you, and many of you have these memories proudly displayed in your homes....have I mentioned how much I LOVE my job??!

In honor of my 300 milestone, as promised I have chosen one lucky fan to receive a free session.  I used www.random.org to generate a random # for the winner, and in the interest of full disclosure I'd like to reveal that the winner is my dad, John Libby.  Seriously.  This guy wins EVERYTHING.  Because he already gets the "family discount" and has no need for a free session, I chose another winner.   That person is MARY D. WILLIAMS.  Congratulations Mary, please contact me when it's convenient to schedule your session.  :)     I also promised a free 8x10 to anyone who shared a status along the way, the code for that is "300FANS". You can enter this code at checkout in your gallery to redeem it.

Once again, thanks to all of you.  It goes without saying that I would not be  where I am today without the support from so many of you.  I know that you are passing my name amongst your friends, family and coworkers, helping my business to grow, and for that I am eternally grateful.  xo

When to book?

Newborns are best photographed between 5-14 days old while they are still sleepy and curl up easily.  It's best to book your appointment while you're still pregnant so that I can block off a time frame for you.  We can always adjust later on if your little one comes earlier or later than expected.  :)  

What's a session like?

I strive to make newborn sessions a relaxed, peaceful experience for the parents and baby as well.  There are no time limits, but sessions usually run at least an hour, often closer to two.  I can come to your home for a session, or you are welcome to come to mine. There's plenty of time for feeding, changing and snuggling breaks.  Newborn clothing doesn't usually fit well and tends to bunch up around the face, so most parents opt to have their babies photographed with little or no clothing.   I have blankets, hats and accessories, but you are always welcome to use any of your own if you'd like too.  

What's the cost?  

The session fee is $125.  This includes my time at your appointment, editing and a password protected gallery of your images for 30 days.  Print prices are a la carte and start at $2.   

If you book a newborn session before June 1st, you will receive a complimentary 8x10!  

Shoot me an email or phone call if interested, and feel free to forward my website on to anyone else you know who might be.

:)  Betsy

*April 6th, 13th or 20th between 10am-3pm 

*You may choose an indoor session, outdoor session or a combo session.  Indoor and outdoor will be approx. 30 minutes with a session fee of $75. Combo sessions will be 30 minutes indoors (at my home) and 30 minutes outdoors (at St. Clare or Braintree Hill Office Park) with a session fee of $100.  

There are some  First Communion themed invitations and thank you cards available on my website in case you're interested, but please note that if you're ordering invites you need to have your session booked at least 3 weeks prior to the big day in order to leave time for me to edit, you to order and then mail to your  guests. 

**I'll be sending out a blast email to previous clients and posting flyers next week, so if you're definitely planning on booking a session, please contact me asap so that you can get a date and time that works for you.  

New Products:

There have recently been a bunch of new products added to my website that I'm super excited about!  My favorite new addition is the accordian minis which feature 12 wallet sized photos on a board that can be folded up and closed with a magnet snap, or stretched out to display.  Also recently added: growth charts, collages, fine art metal prints and much more!    The photo CD is being discontinued, but you are able to purchase for immediate download to your computer single photo files, a group of 5 photos, or your entire gallery.   That's all for now, I'm off to go shovel out and dream about spring....

:)  Betsy

Wow, it's been a long time since my last post! Between jam-packed weekends full of sessions, construction on our house and Christmas these last few months have flown by!  Of course once I could finally sit down and take a breath I ended up getting a massive cold that turned into a sinus infection that turned into other problems..those stupid germs just wouldn't leave!  I'm happy to report that I'm finally back on the mend again, and anxiously awaiting spring.  

I have a couple of exciting announcements!  The first is the addition of new boutique cards!  You can now order cards in multiple sizes including 5x7, 5x5 square and circle and in a variety of beautiful, professional papers including card stock, linen and pearl.  There are a bunch of custom designs in the gallery and I'm in the process of designing more for Easter and First Communion.  The photo above is one of the Easter designs I created this morning.  :)

That brings me to my second announcement...I'm offering a weekend of Easter Mini Sessions this year!  And, there MIGHT even be a live bunny available as a cute little prop...I'll keep you posted on that.  Because Easter is early this year, and we'd need to schedule sessions at least a few weeks before that, Easter minis will be indoors at my house.  They will be on March 2nd & 3rd, 20 minutes long, session fee of $50.  Easter minis also come with a $10 credit to be used toward the new boutique cards I know you'll love!  Let me know if you're interested and I'll email you available times.  As always, space is limited and probably will sell out...  

Finally, I'm also doing a couple of First Communion Minis.  One day will be inside at my house for those of you who prefer simple solid backgrounds and the other day will be outdoors at St. Clares once everything starts flowering for those of you who prefer a natural backdrop.  These sessions will be 30 minutes, with a session fee of $75.  They also come with a $10 credit to use toward communion invitations or thank yous.  More info on the dates/times will be available shortly, but if you know you're interested, shoot me an email and I'll put you on a list so that you can be sure to get time slot.  

:) Betsy

A few things I'd like you to know:

*Unless you've spoken to me already and I've given you availability I do not have any appointments left this year. I do have a cancellation list, if you'd like to be placed on it, let me know.  

*If you'd like to receive your prints/gifts before Christmas the last day to place an order is DECEMBER 14th.

*If you're ordering cards, they should be ordered by DECEMBER 7th to allow enough time for you to send them out on your end.

*Beginning this weekend, all new galleries posted will be live for 30 days for you and your family to order from, rather than 60 days, so that I can cut down on administrative stuff on my end.

Ok, that's all for now...back to editing & uploading!!    :D

On a different note, I know a few clients who already have their holiday cards...how cool is that??!  Imagine being able to check that off your list even before the first frost hits?  And, as an added bonus, you can also order beautiful prints (they can even be custom framed) as presents for your family and friends and cross a few gifts off your list as well!  If you'd like me to design a card for you, take a look in the holiday card gallery and let me know what styles you like and photo(s) you want and I'd be happy to do it for you.  I have a special right now, 25 cards for $25.  

Beach sessions are winding down, senior sessions are wrapping up to meet yearbook deadlines....Fall is officially "here" tomorrow and I can feel it, literally.  I wanted to comb through my summer photos to find one to display at the top of this post, but I just can't pick ONE.  This has been such an amazing summer for me, professionally speaking.  After spending the better part of the winter and spring taking podcasts and online classes, reading whenever I could and practicing, practicing, practicing... I finally feel comfortable with my camera and what it's capable of.  But more importantly, I'm realizing what I'M capable of.  And the icing on the cake? ...An entire summer booked full of great appointments with the most amazing families.   Thank you all, from the bottom of my heart...for making this journey so easy for me... for feeling like old friends and trusting me to photograph you and your children to create memories for you.   XO  

Enjoy the slideshow of some of my favorites....

When: Sunday, October 21st at 1:40pm, 2pm, 2:20pm, 2:40pm, 3pm, 3:20pm, 3:40pm or 4pm

Where: To be decided, it will be an outdoor park with beautiful foliage....I'm watching a few spots and will pick the best when it gets closer

Details: 20 minute session, 5+ edited photos in a gallery with a special coupon attached for holiday cards, $50

*There are a lot of people waiting for these sessions and I expect them to sell out quickly.  If you are interested, send me a msg. with your first and second time choice.  I'll email you a form to fill out and send back with your session fee, once I receive it your spot will be held.

In other exciting news, I am offering holiday cards custom designed by me for this holiday season! 

Mini sessions and all other sessions booked this year will be eligible to purchase holiday cards at a special discounted rate of $25 for 25 cards (that's 33% off the regular price!) now through November 30th.  There are several templates to choose from (you can find them under the "Holiday Cards" tab on my homepage).  Here's the most exciting part...because I created them, they are all completely customizable!!  Each can be horizontal or vertical, can fit however many pictures you'd like  (1-6) in whichever direction you want, the colors can be changed, words and graphics can be changed, etc...  I can even custom match the colors of your card to the clothes you're wearing or background!  They can also be ordered in matte or metallic finish.  If you'd like a card created, just send me a message with which photo(s) you'd like on it and which template you like, and what changes you'd like for your card (if any).  I'll create it an upload the finished product to your gallery where you'll be able to order them.  

Feel free to poke around the holiday cards gallery...if you'd already had a session with me, don't be surprised if one of your photos is in my sample cards.  :)

Now is the perfect time to book a senior session!  September & October are generally mild enough to allow for a session on the beach, at the park, near a pond....wherever you like.   A senior session typically lasts about 1 1/2 hours (a double session is about 2 1/2 hours) , and is a lot of fun!  You are more than welcome to bring wardrobe changes and accessories and props that showcase who you are.  You can pick the location, or if you like I can make suggestions. We'll start off chatting about what you brought for clothes/accessories, then take a look at some of my favorite poses so that I can get an idea of what you like and don't like.  We'll begin shooting traditional poses first as we make our way around your location, and end with some fun ones.  You'll get a private gallery of about 40-50 photos you and your family/friends can order from for 60 days.  There's even a custom package available created with seniors in mind that contains (4) 8x10s, (4) 5x7s, & 16 wallets (you can even mix and match poses!) for $50.  Interested?  Don't wait...availability is extremely limited in September and quickly booking in October too.  

My website is starting to really come together and I'm really happy with my new "home".   Several sessions have been uploaded today, and many more will be in the coming weeks.  I can't wait to hear the feedback when you order prints, etc..  I know you'll be thrilled with the quality and attention to color and detail that comes with ordering from a professional lab.  If you had a session with me and you'd like to have your photos uploaded so that you can order and see for yourself, shoot me an email and I'll be happy to do it for you.  You can even share your gallery with your friends and family so that they can view/order as well.  

I still have a few more sessions available in September and more in October/November.  September is still nice enough to get in that beach session if you wanted one, and you'd even get a discounted session fee...fall family sessions are just $99.   At some point in October I may also be offering a mini session for those of you looking for a nice Holiday card photo of your family...stay tuned for more info on that.  

:)  Betsy

     When I first started out I wanted to make things as simple as possible, and so it made the most sense to just copy the photos I took to CD and give that to the clients.  I also uploaded the files to a photo printing site of your choice while I was copying to CD.   From there my contact with the client ended and we went on our merry ways.  I worried about the printing quality of places like Walmart and CVS where color and clarity were hit or miss at best, and I often wondered what photos the clients liked the most and chose to enlarge.  In the back of my mind I knew that my goal in all of this was a part time job so that I would have more time with my family, not a full time thing that would take away from them, so printing and distributing my own photos was off the table.  A few months ago I stumbled upon a great site called Mpix that is an online photo printing site similar to Shutterfly or Snapfish.  The difference is that Mpix has a professional side, dedicated to professional photographers called Zenfolio.  I recently teamed up with Zenfolio, and I could not be more excited for this venture!  Starting September 1st  I'll be uploading all of your sessions here.  It works very similar to Shutterfly, Snapfish, etc. in that I'll send you a link to your gallery.  You'll be able to see all of your photos displayed beautifully, and you'll be able to order professional quality prints, canvases and photo gifts at very reasonable prices.   I'll be able to see what you're ordering, have a hand in setting prices and even offer coupons and special promotions to my customers.   As of September 1st I'll no longer be offering a complimentary CD of your images with your session, but you will be able to buy it if you choose, or you can also buy individual files to be downloaded to your computer at original resolution.   Going forward, my new website will also be with Zenfolio. It's still a work in progress right now, so please pardon the appearance while I get things going.  

     I'm so excited for this next chapter in my photography journey, and when you see all the beautiful products zenfolio has to offer, I know you will be too.  I can't thank you all enough for your support so far.  Truly, word of mouth advertising is the best there is, and I know a lot of you have been sharing my name with your friends, family and coworkers, and for that I am eternally grateful.   Hope to see you and your families again soon...

:)  Betsy